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Disgruntled Dragon

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Everything posted by Disgruntled Dragon

  1. I screamed so much that I hurt my throat. This is one of my favorite games and I was afraid it would be trapped on the Gamecube forever. Between that and the Super Mario RPG remake, I'm set for a while.
  2. I'm honestly a huge fan of the band First Aid Kit simply because of TellTale Games always using them on their soundtracks. You can't go wrong with the classics, of course, like Final Fantasy or Zelda, but I also like Old Gods of Asgard from Alan Wake and Control.
  3. I'm holding out until Hades 2. But I'd be lying if I said I want curious about final fantasy 16.
  4. Honestly, I don't want any changes. Just more new ways to kill stuff so I can work on unique builds. More characters. More story. Just more of the awesome.
  5. I'm super excited for Hades 2. The anticipation is real.
  6. Of course! You need this pupper. I demand excellence!!
  7. Currently, no. But I found a few of my favorite games on Game Pass... Hades. But also Unpacking and Rain on Your Parade. Oh! And Donut County. I think I actually ended up buying all of them.
  8. I am both nervous and excited for what's to come. I've been burned by Matt Rhule the coaching staff before, though.
  9. The Flutter Micropet is cute! (Not cuter than the polar bear with the magician hat...but, still.) I like they are switching things up. These monthly themes are so great.
  10. Anyone else still completely locked into this game? I literally cannot play anything else without coming back to this game.
  11. The 90s were full of nostalgia media, but one show danced in the fountain inside of all our hearts. Yes, Friends was an iconic show that followed the experience of six very different friends as they faced trials, tribulations, and the ups and downs of life in bustling Manhattan. This fan-favorite series is still well-loved today, and while times certainly have changed, there is still plenty to enjoy in this fun sitcom. One of the biggest reasons watchers return to this show time and again is the hilarious writing. Beyond its 10-year run, the dialogue has kept the show alive spawning memes and bringing everyone back to Central Perk for another cup. Whether you’re more of a fan of Rachel, Chandler, Monica, Joey, Phoebe, or Ross, here are the best quotes from Friends. Rachel Green Quotes Starting with the youngest of the six, Rachel evolves from a naive, spoiled girl to a capable professional and mother. She’s had her fair share of sassy one-liners and come-backs, and her on-and-off-again relationship with Ross was a cornerstone of the series. Here are the best quotes from this fierce fashionista. “That’s a great story. Tell it while you’re getting me some iced tea.” “No uterus, no opinion.” “Oh, I’m sorry. Did my back hurt your knife?" “Ross! We broke up two years ago. You’ve been married since then. I think it’s okay that we see other people.” “We are dessert stealers. We are living outside the law.” “Just so you know, it’s not that common, it doesn’t happen to every guy, and it is a big deal! “I’m gonna go get one of those job things.” “Today, it’s like there’s rock bottom, then 50 feet of crap, then me.” “I was spoiled, self-centered, and you guys really took care of me.” “You know what I figure? If I can do laundry, there’s nothing I can’t do.” “Who is FICA and why is he taking all my money?” “Isn’t this exciting! I earned this! I wiped tables for it, I steamed milk for it, and it was totally… not worth it.” “How do you expect me to grow if you won’t let me blow?” “I’m quitting; I just helped an 81-year-old woman put on a thong and she didn’t even buy it.” “Let me tell you about a couple of things I learned while working at the coffee house. First of all, the customer is always right. A smile goes a long way. And if anyone is ever rude to you: sneeze muffin.” “I don’t want my baby’s first words to be ‘how you doin’?'” “You know what? I just shouldn’t be allowed to make decisions anymore.”Chandler: “Rachel, did it bother you when Ross flirted with other women? ” Rachel: “No, it bothered me when he slept with other women.”Ross: “What about Ruth?”Rachel: “I’m sorry. Are we having an 89-year-old?” “It’s like all my life everyone’s told me, ‘You’re a shoe! You’re a shoe! You’re a shoe!’ Well, what if I don’t want to be a shoe? What if I wanna be a purse or a hat?” “Does this look like something the girlfriend of a paleontologist would wear?” “Oh my god, I’ve become my father. I’ve been trying so hard not to become my mother, I didn’t see this coming.” “Oh, that’s okay. Girls tend to not like me.” “He’s so pretty I want to cry.” “How do we end up with these jerks? We’re good people.” “It’s a metaphor, Daddy.” “Everyone is getting married or pregnant or promoted and I’m getting coffee! And it’s not even for me!” “Well, maybe I don’t need your money. Wait, wait! I said, ‘Maybe.’” “I’m probably 98 percent happy and 2 percent jealous.” “I’m over you. And that, my friends, is what you call closure.” Chandler Bing Quotes By far the most sarcastic of the group, Chandler is the friend with a witty comeback for almost any situation. Don’t worry, though. He has a heart of gold, and definitely someone you’d want by your side through thick and thin. Down-to-Earth and relatable, he is easily the most grounded of the group. Here are the best quotes from Chandler Bing. “Hi, I’m Chandler. I make jokes when I’m uncomfortable.” “I say more dumb things before 9 A.M. than most people say all day.” “So it seems like this internet thing is here to stay.” “Could we be more white trash?” “I tend to keep talking until somebody stops me.”Chandler: “Oh dear god. Hold on, there’s something different.”Ross: “I went to that tanning bed your wife suggested.” Chandler: “Was that place the sun?” “Nice camouflage. For a minute, I almost didn’t see you.” “I’m not great at the advice. Can I interest you in a sarcastic comment?” “What must it be like not to be crippled by fear and self-loathing?”10.“I say more dumb things before 9am than most people say all day.” “You didn’t ‘get’ me. It’s an electric drill. You ‘get’ me you kill me!” “When I was younger, I started using humor as a defense mechanism.” “I want to start drinking in the morning. Don’t say I don’t have goals!”Ross: “What are you doing tonight?”Chandler: “Why, do you have a lecture?” Ross: “No.” Chandler: “Free as a bird, what’s up?” “Why yes Ross, pressing my third nipple. It opens the delivery entrance to the magical land of Narnia.” “I am glad we are having a rehearsal dinner. I rarely practice my meals before I eat.” “I’m a gym member. I try to go four times a week, but I’ve missed the last twelve hundred times.” “I’m a headhunter. I hook up out-of-work Soviet scientists with rogue third-world nations. Hi, Rasputin!” “I’m hopeless and awkward and desperate for love!” “Oh, We’re just sitting here doing nothing. It’s our rehearsal for tomorrow.” “I just realized I can sleep with my eyes open.” “It’s always better to lie than to have the complicated discussion.” “So, I figure I’ll be crazy man with a snake, y’know? Crazy Snake Man. And I’ll get more snakes, call them my babies, kids will walk past my place, they will run. ‘Run away from Crazy Snake Man,’ they’ll shout!” “All right, I took the quiz. And it turns out I do put career before men.” “I think for us, kissing is pretty much like an opening act. I mean, it’s like the stand-up comedian you have to sit through before Pink Floyd comes out.” “On second thought, gum would be perfection. [To himself] Gum would be perfection? Could’ve said, “Gum would be nice,” or, “I’ll have a stick,” but no. For me, gum would be perfection. I loathe myself.” “You’re a door. You only like knock-knock jokes.” “It’s so hard to care when you’re this relaxed.”Ross: “Don’t you want a washboard stomach and rock-hard pecs?”Chandler: “No, I want a flabby gut and saggy man-breasts.” “It’s seven years ago. My time machine works!” Monica Geller Quotes An Energetic perfectionist, Monica is equal parts mothering and dominating, carving out her role in the group. She is hard-working and the practical one, so she’s usually the friend helping the others while navigating her own chaos. And she definitely has a way with words with her blunt, and sometimes harsh one-liners, but sometimes a firm hand is what you need! Here are Monica’s best quotes. “Now, I need you to be careful and efficient. And remember: If I am harsh with you, it’s only because you’re doing it wrong.” "I needed a plan, a plan to get over my man. And what's the opposite of man? Jam." "If you're too afraid to be in a relationship, then don't be in one." "I just had sex with someone who wasn't alive during the Bicentennial." “Then three years ago, at another wedding, I turned to a friend for comfort, and instead I found everything that I’ve ever been looking for my whole life. And now, here we are, with our future before us, and I only want to spend it with you, my prince, my soul-mate, my friend.” “Why didn’t you make a copy and keep it in a fireproof box and keep it at least a hundred yards from the original?” “Do you really think the best reason to get married is because you’re sorry?” "OK, just to be clear, comedy with the plates will not be well-received." "Phoebe and Gary think they're the hotter couple. So, to prove them wrong, we have to go and have a ton of sex." “You’re supposed to double the tax, not double the tax of Romania.” “They’re as different as night and... later that night.” "You go down there, and you suck up to him. I mean, you suck like you've never sucked before." "Having a heart attack is nature's way of telling you to slow down." "Here's the last of your boxes. I'm just going to label it 'What were you thinking?'" "We better stick to the routine; we don't want to look stupid." “Your little Harmonica is hammered.” “Okay, hypothetically, why won’t I be married when I’m 40?” “Why don’t you stop worrying about sounding smart and just be yourself.” “Welcome to the real world. It sucks. You’re gonna love it.” “It’s never taken you more than a shower to get over a relationship.” "Still... It's just such reckless spending." “He used to have this recurring nightmare. It really freaked him out...that I was going to eat him.” “We only ordered one!” “I wonder what age it is that you stop being able to put both legs behind your head.” “You don’t tell me what to do. I tell you what to do!” “I really think I might kill someone tonight.” “I know you all hate me, and I’m sorry, but I don’t care.” “That’s how it starts. I don’t need to eat the cake, I’ll just smell the icing.” “Okay, then. I don’t stink. I’m a good chef!” “I hope by maid you mean mistress, because if some other woman was here cleaning...!” Joey Tribbiani Quotes We all have that one ride-or-die friend who will always have our back; Joey is that guy. Funny, charming, and with a heart of gold, he is easily the most loyal. However, he is a little slow on the uptake, which can make for great comedy. Whether he’s the butt of the joke or just being over-the-top, Joey is easily a fan favorite. These are the best Joey Tribbiani quotes. “Well, the fridge broke, so I had to eat everything.” “Over the line? You’re so far past the line that you can’t even see the line! The line is a dot to you!” “Here come the meat sweats.” “I like it. What’s not to like? Custard? Good. Jam? Good. Meat? Good.” “These are just feelings. They’ll go away.” “You can’t just give up! Is that what a dinosaur would do?”Joey: “Come on, Chandler. I want this part so much. Just one kiss. I won’t tell anyone.”Chandler: “Joey, no means no!”Joey: “If he doesn’t like you, this is all a moo point.”Rachel: “A moo point?” Joey: “Yeah. It’s like a cow’s opinion. It just doesn’t matter. It’s moo.” “That’s right, I stepped up! She’s my friend and she needed help. If I had to, I’d pee on any one of you!” “You hung up on the pizza place? I don’t hang up on your friends.” “So why don’t you be a grown-up and come and watch some TV in the fort?” Monica: “Joey, you know, maybe you’re just not used to kissing men. Maybe you just tensed up a little bit. Maybe that’s what you need to work on.”Joey: “Yeah, that makes sense.” (Joey looks over at Ross) Ross: “Over my dead body.” (Joey looks over at Chandler) Chandler: “And I’ll be using his dead body as a shield.” “I don’t like it when people take food off my plate, OK?” “I look a woman up and down and say, ‘Hey, how you doin’?'Joey: “What happened to playing the field?”Phoebe: “Well, it doesn’t feel like playing anymore, it feels like work. It’s like I’m working in the field!”Ross: (About Joey’s finger in his mouth) “What is that taste?”Joey: “What? My hands are totally clean, I just gave the duck a bath.” “Why do you have to break up with her? Be a man. Just stop calling.” “Now, let’s go, baby. It’s food time. Bring it, bitch.” “Food? Oh, give me!” “Joey doesn’t share food!” “I’m curvy and I like it.” “It is a love based on giving and receiving, as well as having and sharing. And the love that they give and have is shared and received. And through this having and giving and sharing and receiving, we too can share and love and have and receive.” “You’ve been BAMBOOZLED!” “Everything’s fine, it’s just a little crush.” “You know, with that goatee, you kind of look like Satan.”Chandler: “Condoms?”Joey: “We don’t know how long we’re gonna be stuck here. We might have to repopulate the world.” Chandler: “And condoms are the way to do that?” Phoebe: “Je m’appelle Claude.”Joey: “Jet aplee blooo.”Chandler: “Hey, you cry every time someone mentions Titanic.”Joey: “Those two only had each other!” “Pheebs, have you ever been bitten by a hungry Italian?” “Alright, alright, alright. I was young, and I just wanted a job, OK? But at the last minute, I couldn’t go through with it. So they let me be the guy who comes in to fix the copier but can’t, ’cause there’s people havin’ sex on it." Phoebe Buffay Quotes Phoebe is a unique soul, who’s had a bit of a rough start. However, she’s still so sweet, despite her blunt and hilarious one-liners. Never afraid to be herself, she’s quirky and flake with a touch of bohemian flair. Easily one of the funniest in the group, Phoebe is not afraid to speak her mind. Here are some of her most iconic quotes. “Come on, Ross, you’re a paleontologist. Dig a little deeper.” “Something is wrong with the left phalange.” “Oh, my God, a woman flirting with a single man? We must alert the church elders!” "If you want to receive emails about my upcoming shows, please give me money so I can buy a computer." "Smelly Cat, Smelly Cat, What are they feeding you? Smelly Cat, Smelly Cat, It's not your fault." "This is your third divorce! You love divorce so much you’re probably gonna marry it! Then it won’t work out and you’re gonna have to divorce it, divorcing guy." "I just, I just have this really strong feeling that this cat is my Mother." "No, no, I am against innocent trees being cut down in their prime, and their, their corpses grotesquely dressed in like tinsel and twinkly lights. Hey, how do you sleep at night?" "It's a known fact that lobsters fall in love and mate for life. You know what? You can actually see old lobster couples walkin' around their tank, you know, holding claws like…" "Yeah, it's just so strange. I mean, she probably woke up today and thought, 'Ok, I'll have some breakfast, and then I'll take a little walk, and then I'll have my massage.' Little did she know God was thinking, 'Ok, but that's it'." “One really does have a stick up one’s ass. Doesn’t one?” "Okay, first... I'm not crazy. And second... say it, don't spray it." "I asked for the news, not the weather." "You’re the cook! Without you, it’s just me driving up to people’s houses with empty trays and asking for money."Rachel Green: Does this look like something the girlfriend of a paleontologist would wear?Phoebe: I don’t know, you might be the first one. "Your tombstone can say whatever you want it to say. It could say, 'Ross Geller, Good at Marriage!' Y'know? Mine's gonna say, 'Phoebe Buffay, Buried Alive." "Chandler still thinks I'm pregnant and he hasn't asked me how I'm feeling or offered to carry my bags. I feel bad for the woman who ends up with him." "You know, you always see these really beautiful women with these really nothing guys. You could be one of those guys." Joey: The casting director doesn't talk to friends! She only talks to agents!Phoebe: What a sad little life she must lead. "When I was growing up, I didn’t have a normal mom and dad or a regular family like everybody else. And I always knew that something was missing. But now I’m standing here today knowing that I have everything I’m ever gonna need. You are my family." "Are you in there, little fetus? In nine months, will you greet us? I will … buy you some Adidas." "You should see me when I actually… Oh actually, no, I look good." "I am a pacifist. So I am not interested in war in any way. But you know what? When the revolution comes, I will have to destroy you all." “Well, if she isn’t (dead), cremating her was a big mistake.” “This is the nicest kitchen. … The refrigerator told me to have a great day.” “Oh, you like that? You should hear my phone number.” “Princess Consuela Bananahammock.” “I’m very wise, I know.” “I’m a lady, Monica. I don’t kiss and tell. But this hickey speaks for itself.” “Didn’t you ever run so fast you thought your legs were gonna fall off, you know, like when you were running toward the swings or running away from Satan?” Ross Geller Quotes Easily the most neurotic of the “Friends” group, Ross is a memorable character for more than one reason. Whether it’s his ridiculous one-liners or his on-again-off-again relationship with Rachel, he always seems to make people laugh. While not everything about the show aged well, Ross’s antics and quips can still make you chuckle. Here are some of the best Ross Gellar quotes. “I’m the holiday armadillo!” “We were on a break!” “I tell you, when I actually die, some people are going to get seriously haunted.” “No falafel for you!” “Well, Hurricane Gloria didn’t break the porch swing. Monica did.” “I’m FINE!”Rachel: “Can you take care of Emma just for today?”Ross: “Sure, just lend me your breasts and we’ll be on our way.” “Unagi is a total state of awareness.”Phoebe: “Ross, how about you? Sex or food?”Ross: “Sex!” Phoebe: “What about sex or dinosaurs?” Ross: “My God, it’s like Sophie’s Choice.” “You-you-you… you threw my sandwich away? My sandwich? MY SANDWICH?!” “All of which proves that I thought of Jurassic Park first.”Ross: (frantically presses buttons on the answering machine) “Oh my God! Did she get off the plane? Did she get off the plane?”Rachel: (from behind him) “I got off the plane.” “If you’re going to call me names, I would prefer ‘Ross, the Divorce Force.’ It’s just cooler.” “I knew you’d be my death, Phoebe Buffay!” “Ugly Baby judges you!” “You know, we should probably ask the doctor if she even knows how to deliver a baby that’s half-human, half pure evil.” “Wow. This is the first time I’ve walked down the aisle without the possibility of it ending in divorce.” “There was nothing in your father’s fridge except heavy cream and bacon. I think I solved the mystery of the heart attack.” “Y’know what? I’m gonna go out on a limb and say no divorces in ‘99!” “Hey, remember when I had a monkey? Yeah, what was I thinking?” “I am this close to tugging on my testicles again.”Monica: “Chandler and I have this pact not to have sex until the wedding.”Ross: “A no-sex pact, huh? I seem to have one of those going with every woman in America.” “Pivot. Pivot. Piv-ot. Piv-ot. PIVOT!” “Yes. Yes, it is… in prison!” “I grew up in a house with Monica, OK. If you didn’t eat fast, you didn’t eat.” “You have no idea how much this hurts!” “Get off my sister!” “I honestly don’t know if I’m hungry or horny.” “Well, I didn’t. I didn’t propose. Unless… did I? I haven’t slept in 40 hours. And it does sound like something I would do.” “Ah. Humor based on my pain.” I’ll be there for you While not everything about the show Friends aged well, it’s still one of the most iconic and well-loved sitcoms from the 90s. Plus, there’s still plenty of golden one-liners and snappy writing to make your sides ache. Times have changed, but Friends will always be there to make you think back on a time and remember what made this show a stand-out of its time.
  12. When it comes to The Walking Dead series, it's all about the noms. Everything in the popular show and comic series circles around survival - and eating is one of the most basic needs. Naturally, should we ever be trapped in the zombie apocalypse, it's always best to be prepared. What better way to have your wits about you than with a thorough survival guide and cookbook in one! Lauren Wilson, the author of The Art of Eating through the Zombie Apocalypse, did just that with her new cookbook AMC The Walking Dead: The Official Cookbook and Survival Guide. If you want to know which wild plants will kill you, know how to unconventionally start a fire, or try out some unique recipes for your Walking Dead premier party, this one is for you. This 143 page instructional book is just the ticket for any foodie. With eye-catching visuals provided by photographer Yunhee Kim and delightful show-inspired recipes, even zombies will be shuffling along for this one. [WooZoneProducts asin=1683830784][/WooZoneProducts] Survival of the Fittest The Walking Dead official cookbook has a lot to offer any reader, whether you are a show enthusiast, a food lover, or someone who prides herself on knowing how to survive when lost on a hike. Its versatility sets it apart from any other cookbook. The early chapters cover survival basics, while the latter section takes readers through the many recipes inspired by the show: from Lori's [Not So] God-awful Pancakes to Hershel's Spaghetti Tuesday Dinner. Of course, a book like this just doesn't fall into place and not just any author could tackle such a project. Lauren Wilson was just the chef to do it. Of course, how does one write an official guide to cooking through the zombie apocalypse? Well, we had a chance to talk with the author about just that, among other fun things. [gallery columns=2" size="full" link="file" ids="20783,20781] Deadicated Fans' Interview with Lauren Wilson 1. Tell us a little bit about your background. Lauren: I am Canadian and have been living here in the U.S. for the last 7 years. I went to chef school in Toronto after graduating college with a marketing degree and deciding I wanted to pursue something a little more hands on. I am also half Italian and grew up with a Sicilian nonna, so food has always been a big part of my life, and it was a natural choice when I made a career change. I started writing about food not long after I started working in restaurants. When I moved to New York I got into teaching cooking classes and began working on my first book, The Art of Eating Through the Zombie Apocalypse. 2. What inspired you to write a cookbook quite like this? Lauren: The idea for The Art of Eating actually came from a dear friend of mine, Paul, who just said offhandedly to me one day: “You’re a zombie nerd and you’re a food nerd. You should write a cookbook for the zombie apocalypse.” I just loved the idea! But this was back in 2008 and I wasn’t quite sure how long the public appetite for the undead would last, so I waited. It wasn’t until The Walking Dead premiered on AMC in 2010 that I realized I needed to get moving. 3. Tell us about your writing process for the cookbook. Lauren: For The Walking Dead: The Official Cookbook & Survival Guide, the process was a pretty intense one. I had a short period of time to write the manuscript, and on top of that I was dedicated to making the book as true to the universe of the show as possible. That involved re-watching every episode of the entire series until that point (about 92 episodes), searching for food moments. Thankfully, writing The Art of Eating gave me a great foundation of knowledge for the survival section and all I had to there was tailor the content to the show and what we see characters on the show doing. I took a leave from my full-time job serving and managing at Rose’s Bar & Grill in Brooklyn and worked 7 days a week on the manuscript. 4. What’s your favorite recipe? Lauren: I usually say the Wild Boar Chops with Juniper, Apples & Sage. And it is really high up there on the leaderboard. But today I am battling the sugar demon so I would say Carl’s Chocolate Pudding. It’s so easy to make and so satisfying to eat-though I try not to eat 110 ounces of it at a time. 5. Has this inspired future projects? Lauren: Not directly, no. But it has inspired me to write another cookbook, which I am working on currently. If you had asked me after I finished The Art of Eating if I would ever write another cookbook, I would have said NO. But now that I’ve written a second, I have definitely been inspired to write a third. So maybe I will be a cookbook author when I grow up… 6. What advice would you give aspiring authors? Lauren: Work hard and keep going. When I decided to write The Art of Eating I had absolutely zero idea what went into writing, pitching and selling a cookbook. I had no connections in publishing. But I rolled up my sleeves and figured out what I needed to do. I decided to go the agent route so I cold-called every agent in New York City. So I would say work on your craft, write something you’re proud of, and then be unafraid to go out there and do your absolute best to make it happen. Oh, and don’t forget about the business side of being an author. Hustle is a big part of the game because you have to work hard to find and really connect with people who are genuinely interested in you and what you’re doing. Even before you sell your book, you need to start trying to find your tribe. It’s a tremendously important part of the process, and it takes time and consistent effort. I wish someone had told me that while I was writing The Art of Eating. 7. What would you say was the most difficult part of the process? Lauren: I really enjoyed the process! I think just the compression of work into a short period was the hardest thing. I didn’t take a day off for three months. But I was doing something I loved and very honored to be doing, so it made the whole thing pretty rad. [WooZoneProducts asin=1683830784][/WooZoneProducts] 8. Which part was more difficult, the survivor guide or the research for the recipes. Lauren: Neither? As I mentioned, The Art of Eating gave me a great foundation for the survival section. And writing the recipes was just fun. While combing through every single episode was a lengthy process, I am so glad I did it because I am hoping it makes the book really satisfying for fans 9. How did this project come about-were you approached by AMC, or did you approach them. Lauren: I was approached by Insight Editions, who is the publisher of the book. They licensed the rights from AMC to do the book. In some awesome and unexpected twist of fate, the fact that I had written The Art of Eating made me perhaps the most qualified person to write a cookbook for The Walking Dead, so it was a no-brainer. 10. Have any zombies attacked while you were trying to forage? Lauren: Ha! No. However, even if they had I think my urban foraging guide, Wildman Steve Brill, would have dispatched them without hesitation. He’s a wily dude. 11. What tips would you give fellow survivors in the field? Lauren: Make like a scout and BE PREPARED.
  13. Welcome back to the Nostagia Train – the series that brings you back in time to enjoy the beloved or not-so-beloved games of our past. This time, we are headed back to 1994 when FPS shooters involved tricky mazes, creatures from another world, and mild motion-sickness. Following the success of Doom and Wolfenstein 3D, Heretic: Shadow of the Serpent Riders was a dark, medieval take on the first-person shooter. A twisted atmosphere of ambient noise and uncertainty around every corner, Heretic is more than just a Doom clone. While most of the game takes cues from its predecessor, Heretic manages to stand on its own as a pretty solid game. There are a few functional changes and a different theme bundled with a little online multi-player option that makes this game worth checking out. Heretic: War of the Serpent Riders Three devious Serpent Riders with powerful magic have sought to control the kings of the world and wage war. However, the Sidhe elves resisted the riders. They sacrificed their own power to stop the kings from tearing each other a part at the cost of their own magic. Thus, the elves were rendered helpless before the Serpent Riders and forced to go into hiding. One remaining warrior, Corvus, seeks vengeance against the Serpent Riders and sets out to defeat the weakest first – D’Sparil. Will his vengeance be realized and can he make it home alive? Navigating the City of the Damned Heretic is your basic first-person shooter, but with a few perks. Unlike previous games, you can actually look up and down in this game! It’s a little change, but it really helps when you’re trying to find out what’s shooting you. A less helpful tidbit is the introduction of gibs – that way you are pleasantly reminded of the fact that you died a horrible, skin-melting lava death. Oh yes! And you can fly. So, there’s that. Aside from these small changes, game play is very similar to other FP shooters of the era. Players must navigate through a level-based structure with varying degrees of difficulty. Find weapons, find keys, find treasure and murder the bad guys. Part of the fun of these games is figuring out the puzzles and unlocking the door forward to the next, more difficult level of the dungeon. That, and the abusive cheat codes. Trying to cheat, eh? Now you die! One of the best parts of Heretic and games like it is throwing on the cheat codes and slaughtering your foes. There are several codes for “god mode” or “all weapons” – but don’t go typing in IDKFA of IDDQD just yet. The game actually punishes players that try to use the secret codes from Doom. If you don’t believe me, give it a try! You can download the game on steam! Overall, Heretic: Shadow of the Serpent Riders is one of those games that slipped through the cracks. While the story isn't much to write home about, the actual game play is where Heretic shines. It was released at a time where Doom was king, and the release date had it competing with the next level of gaming. It had missed its mark, but it really is a solid game. If you are into old school first-person shooters, Heretic is really worth spending the time and money on. If you end up liking it, there are two sequels! So, what do you think? Want to head back into the past? Where should we go next? Let us know in the comments below!
  14. Finally! August 8th has come (and gone) and The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess, Vol. 2 manga series has arrived! I anxiously awaited the UPS delivery notification and couldn't wait to dive into the next part. I had high expectations following the strong start of Vol. 1 from Viz Media - and the second didn't disappoint. The story continues with the base story line from the video game, but with slight changes to translate the action and give our hero, Link, a voice. While the first was an introduction to Link and the whirlwind of twilight that had ripped through Hyrule, this second entry tackles his awakening as the hero. Let's take an in-depth look at the second part of the four-part series. Before reading further, be sure to check out our review of Volume 1. Caged in Twilight In the second installment in the series, Link awakens chained and in the form of a majestic wolf. A twilight imp by the name of Midna appears and offers him freedom, but only if he agrees to assist her on her quest. During their escape, Link discovers that he is being kept in Hyrule Castle and that the world has been flooded in Twilight. Before he can meet with destiny, Midna returns him to Ordon Village where the monkeys of the Faron Woods have become violent. What foul demons wait in the depths of the forest? Can Link trust Midna and will he ever return to his human form? The Light of Hyrule The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess, Vol. 2 keeps with the overall tone of Vol. 1. There are a few interesting twists to the original story involving Princess Zelda's backstory and a glimpse of Link's grizzly rival, King Bulbin. I appreciate the various perspectives presented, and it's those little details that round out the narrative. Link and Midna have met, and their dynamic is perfect. While their relationship is born out of a mutual need for one another to start, the foundation for their partnership is well established. Link, however, is conflicted with his duty as a hero. Though he is a reluctant champion, he manages to navigate the Twilight in his new wolf form and rises to the occasion in order to protect his home. The darker images and violence can prove to be a bit much for very young readers, but it stays true to the original game. The stakes are raising, and it displays how the most noble creatures can be corrupted by the darkness. At the end, we are once again left with a defiant Link and an uncertain future for Hyrule. (Unless, of course, you've played the game.) While Vol. 2 did a decent job capturing the important points by weaving in some extra backstory, there is just so much to cover in four volumes. I'm concerned about how much might be left out as the series continues. The artistry for Twilight Princess, Vol. 2 brings out the dark theme of the Twilight realm. There is a distinct difference between the World of Light and the Twilight, and it makes the experience more immersive. The panels contain stunning images that really push the story forward, almost too quickly. However, it's a little disappointing at the end- simply because Vol. 3 is too far away. Is it March 13th yet? Twi light Princess, Vol. 2: Final Thoughts The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess, Vol. 2 is a great continuation of the darker video game in the franchise. The tone keeps the mature feel and has a good balance between the World of Light and Twilight artwork. The story is more character driven and provides some intriguing new details. It is a fitting continuation, and I cannot wait for the next one. You May Also Be Interested In: The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess Volume 1 - Review Order the Twilight Princess Volume 2 on Amazon
  15. Our next trip on the Nostalgia Train brings us to a true SNES treasure. While this beloved system had many memorable games, it’s truly an experience to play this classic. Chrono Trigger is regarded as one of the best RPGs of all time. With a rich story, easy-to-grasp gameplay, and an outstanding soundtrack, it’s no wonder this title always seems to end up at the top of any “Greatest Games of All Time” list. What else would you expect from the creators of Dragon Quest, Final Fantasy and the Dragon Ball series? Seriously, all of the stars aligned on this project - complete with the musical genius of Yansunori Mitsuda and Nobuo Uematsu. While not overly complicated, Chrono Trigger is a masterpiece with outstanding graphics, multiple endings, and a New Game+ option that will keep you playing time and again. Originally released on the SNES in 1995, this JRPG favorite has been re-released on the Playstation, Nintendo DS, and it’s available for mobile download. If you’ve never gotten the chance to play, you are in for a treat. Hopping into the Epoch In 1000 AD, it's time for the Millennial Fair, and our hero, Chrono is enjoying the festival. Lucca, his best friend, shows off her latest invention when things suddenly go awry. Something strange happens to Lucca’s volunteer, Marle, and the three are thrown through time on an epic adventure. What starts as a search and rescue mission turns in something much more as Chrono and friends stumble across a shocking discovery. With the future in imminent peril, Chrono, Marle and Lucca must come up with a plan to save the world! Finding the Chrono Trigger Like most RPGs, Chrono Trigger is a sprawling adventure, but this journey takes us through time. Players guide a three-person party through various dungeons, trials and towns in search of information or treasure. What’s unique about this game is the use of time travel. The main objective is to ultimately stop the apocalypse, but there are so many intricate plot details that create a wonderfully lighthearted, yet poignant narrative. Most of the mechanics are the same as other RPGS, but with unique designs. You encounter enemies directly in the field, and with minimal transition time, the fight begins. Player position actually effects the battle. Enemies move around and characters can be tossed across the screen. It makes for some interesting strategy changes, especially when trying to hit multiple enemies with one attack. There’s a total of six playable characters and one secret character. Like most RPGs, you have complete control of your party’s equipment. The party’s stats and abilities increase as they fight battles, which increase in difficulty over time. As characters level, they gain access to new abilities called Techs. While Techs and magic spells are character specific, Chrono Trigger adds a new twist. Characters can combine their turns to form Dual Techs and Triple Techs. It's important to try out different party combinations in order to discover all of these unique abilities. These special techs pull the efforts of two or more party members to create devastating attacks. It's debatable whether or not the Dual or Triple Techs are worth the cost, but that really depends on how you want to use your party. Multiple Endings and New Game+ Besides battling bosses, there are plenty of side quests, secret missions and puzzles players can tackle across the different time periods. While these objectives are like many other great RPGs, Chrono Trigger created concepts still used in games today. After playing through the game once, the New Game + option appears. This allows you to retain most of your items, (provided that they are not directly involved with the storyline) levels, and techs to use at the start of a new game. The New Game+ option is pretty incredible, especially if you are a completionist gamer. Of course, this option is very helpful for anyone who wants to experience every single hidden ending that Chrono Trigger has to offer! There are thirteen in total and each is unique to how you defeat the game. The DS version expands upon the New Game+ idea by adding an additional dungeon and an optional final boss. With so many side quests and secrets, Chrono Trigger keeps giving players reason to pick up the controller again. Chrono Trigger: A Journey Through Time Chrono Trigger is an innovative RPG that paved the way for future genre classics, but it's very hard to capture the same magic. A truly remarkable tale of friendship, love, and sacrifice, this game has a solid plot that leaves a mark in my heart. It found a way to marry literary genres together into one epic story with heart-pumping action, touching and silly moments, and many surprise endings. Supported by an enchanting soundtrack and amazing graphics, considering the designer and the time period, it is a privilege to play this game. With so many positive elements, Chrono Trigger certainly does earn a spot on every "Greatest Games of All Time" list. So what do you think? Have you played Chrono Trigger? What's taking you so long!!! How about Chrono Cross? Or perhaps Final Fantasy? Let us know in the comments below!
  16. We have reached the final chapter of the PS2 era and not a moment too soon. On the eve of its remastered release, the time seems right to reminisce about the next title in the Evolution Series: Final Fantasy XII. Published just shy of 10 years ago, and with Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age coming out on July 11th, this entry took a page from its predecessors and broke the traditional mold of what “Final Fantasy” was. Praised for its state-of-the-art graphics (for the time), seamless transitions, and exciting new battle system, it was considered a huge step forward for the series for many. A breath of fresh air! On the other hand, following the huge departure from the previous mainstream title, Final Fantasy X, this is also the game that alienated some die-hard fans. With a series this versatile, it’s best to test it out. Time to Make a Few Changes Before we dive into the game itself, let’s see what’s changed! Unlike the last entry, Final Fantasy XII has an open world experience. There are far fewer ‘narrow hallways’ here, but that is the least complicated of the changes. First and foremost, Gil is no longer a thing – but players can pick up loot to sell at local shops. You must farm materials in order upgrade equipment, purchase new items, or lower the cost of available merchandise -- and you do that by fighting monsters with a fancy new battle system! Speaking of enemies, this entry does away with any random encounters. Instead, players are gifted to a Chrono Trigger-esque style of confronting enemies in the field. Players can also go on “hunts” to kill special monsters for big rewards, which is pretty fun. As for battling, most of the characters are controlled via A.I. using the “Gambit System” where players set up abilities and let their characters charge into battle. Of course, things or more intricate than that, but we’ll get into the details later. The final thing that’s really switched up is the growth system. Players gain experience through battles that buffs up their stats, but that’s your everyday RPG. The new addition is the License Board that allows characters to perform actions as the “licenses” are acquired. This functions a lot like the sphere grid, so it’s not a far cry. While all of these changes seem minor, they do have a major effect on how the game is played. Endless War in Ivalice Following the wedding of Dalmasca’s Princess Ashe to Prince Rasler of Nabradia, the Archandian Empire invades both countries. With Rasler and the King of Dalmasca murdered, the chief suspect is the Dalmascan Captain, Basch. In the aftermath of Princess Ashe’s suicide, the traitorous Basch is sentenced to death. However, political intrigue is not always as it seems. Years later, a street rat, Vaan, gets himself and his friend, Penelo, drawn into the underbelly of the Dalmascan resistance as they try to take down the Archadian Empire. A story of blood, royalty, war and sky pirates paints a picture that not all conflicts are black and white. War, Pirates and a Little Bland Though the plot seems like it would be rolling with twists, turns and unexpected surprises, for a war story, it’s a little on the dull side. While the intrigue is there, the story seems to fit more in a MMORPG than an epic JRPG. There is so much going on; however, there is something to be said about a few weak characters. While I found several characters very well developed, (I loved Balthier and Basch!) some I felt lacked significant draw – mainly, Vaan. I understand that his character was meant to be vanilla in order for players to emulate with him, but I still didn’t feel the connection. It’s not so good when there are other more interesting characters overshadowing your main protagonists. In addition to the character problems, the soundtrack was a bit lacking. While it was a beautiful soundtrack, it's hard to compare to previous franchise entries. The title track, "Kiss Me Goodbye" stands out, but the rest is a little forgettable. It's really hard to follow Nobuo Uematsu. The story itself seems to seep in the lore, war, and turmoil of Ivalice itself. Of course, it could be argued that is the nature of this particular story. Stories of war are less focused on particular individuals as the situation surrounding them is far more threatening. It’s understandable why the plot and development play out as they does, but it’s also expected that not everyone would enjoy a less character-focused narrative. Either way, Final Fantasy XII does have a lot of love from its fans, and it’s all a matter of taste. Setting Up The Gambits and Licensing Final Fantasy XII's game-play starts off like any other entry in the series. Players control their party while navigating the world map, dungeons and towns, but this time it's possible to rotate the camera for a 360° view. In the field, the party of three is spread out, but while searching towns, players can only control Vaan. The world is mostly navigated on foot, by chocobo or airship - and they can also teleport between gate crystals. Players can explore Ivalice while battling monsters, covering plot points, or searching for treasure. The treasure, however, can be an irritating thing. It's always a gamble opening chests. For instance, you could explore a dungeon hoping to open a chest that could possibly contain a powerful weapon only to open it and discover a potion. It's a matter of chance, which is a little frustrating. While traveling from place to place, unlike previous franchise entries, players can actually see the monsters they could encounter. Monsters can range in difficulty - but slaying the beasts can earn the party EXP and loot. It could also fill in the game's bestiary, which can prove useful for farming materials. One criticism of Final Fantasy XII that the game requires excessive grinding to get items, level characters, and unlock all potential bazaar items. While some fans are pleased with this, others looking to enjoy the story may find themselves disappointed. Battle System One of the biggest changes in Final Fantasy XII is the battle system. While this isn't the first game in the franchise to change how the game is played, it is one of the first to incorporate a combo of the Active Time System and A.I. You can initiate commands through a battle menu, like usual, but you are given the option to set up actions. The new gambit system allows characters to take care of fights on their own. Overtime characters acquire gambits that work as one of the following actions: Target, an action, or priority. Targets specify the main focus of a party member at the onset of battle. For example: Vaan can either heal an ally with below 70% health, or attack the weakest target first. After the target is set, the action is carried out. Finally, the priority indicates which gambit should performed first. For many, this was a refreshing take on the battle system. Setting up gambits for battle requires a bit of finesse and it depends on how you develop your characters. In addition to the gambit system, players can also summon creatures called 'Espers' into combat and use limit breaks. Espers actually act as another party member until the time runs out or the summoner has been KOed. In order to get them, players must defeat them battle. Limit breaks, or "quickenings" are unique to a character, can be advanced by the licensing system, and can be strung together for an ultimate chain attack. Licensing and Building Weapons Final Fantasy XII's level up system relies on two things: experience points and license points. As with most RPGs, fighting battles earns EXP. Earning EXP leads to stat boosts, but characters cannot grow through strength, magic, and health improvements alone. In order for characters to gain abilities, characters must obtain license points in order to improve on their skills. License Boards are split up into two sections: upper and lower. The Upper part focuses on Magic, techniques, accessories and augments, while the bottom takes care of weapons and armor. Players can use license points to upgrade available abilities. In order to activate the items ON the licence board, you have to actually have them. This could make the process a little bit daunting. Also - Espers and 'Quickenings' can only be assigned to one character. While all characters can obtain any license on the board, the Espers and Quickenings are character specific. While this does allow for a lot of freedom, it could also be tedious building points, finding the loot, purchasing the item, and then activating on the board. It's a game that requires time and patience. Final Fantasy XII: Final Thoughts A fresh step in a new direction, Final Fantasy XII is a cherished fan favorite. While it is one of the more difficult games in the franchise, it dared to shake things up for a new take on the JRPG. Though there were a few character and plot issues, the story is pretty solid. The music, though not as strong, suits the game, and the battle system is an exciting twist on the old franchise. Final Fantasy XII may have caused some controversy, but it is an excellent addition to the legacy and a fitting end to the PS2 era. July 11th can't come soon enough! So where does Final Fantasy XII sit on your list? Want to learn about Final Fantasy's first MMORPG? Let us know in the comments below - We'll see you on the PS3!
  17. DC Comic's movie track record as of late has been pretty abysmal. With Man of Steel, Batman V Superman and Suicide Squad receiving mixed reviews, it would take a little doing to pull them up before the release of Justice League. Marvel has been a box office dominator with it's stand alone and ensemble films; Warner Bros. Pictures needed something to give them a boost. Wonder Woman definitely does that. With a slow build-up and an action-packed payoff, Diana is the DC character we've been waiting for. Directed by Patty Jenkins, who brought us Monster, Wonder Woman gives us a glimpse into a hero origin story that has never seen the . It was definitely worth the wait. A Trip Back to Themyscira After present-day Diana Prince (Gal Gadot) receives a memento of her past, we are given a glimpse of how Wonder Woman came to be. Raised on the island of Themyscira, the home of the Amazons, she trained in the art of war to protect the people of the world from Ares, God of War. While initially not allowed to train, Diana spars with her aunt, General Antiope (Robin Wright). During on such session, an airplane carrying Steve Trevor (Chris Pine) arrives and crashes just beyond the island followed a legion of German soldiers. The world is in great peril, and Diana believes that it is all because of Ares' master plan to destroy the humans. Against her mother, Queen Hippolyta's wishes (Connie Nielson), Diana returns with Steve on a mission to hunt down Ares and stop the killing once and for all. However, there is more to Diana than meets the eye. What will she find when she joins the 'modern' world? The Lasso of Truth and a Killer Theme At first, Wonder Woman moved slowly. While it was necessary to build-up her story, once the action started, everything started moving very quickly. It was very interesting to see a story based out of the WWI era, and the visuals in this movie were fantastic. I think I have to see it a second time just to take in everything. There is so much attention to detail and nothing brings a character to life better than a decent story, a unique backdrop and a killer theme. Diana is a wide-eyed idealist who faces a world she doesn't know with the mindset that she can save it. The movie doesn't shy away from the grim side of war, and it isn't afraid to tackle some touchy themes. It has amazing action scenes, but the film doesn't rely on them. While it is, first and foremost, a "super hero" movie, it speaks about so much more like the duality of mankind, and what truly makes it worth saving. In fact, the more I think about this movie, the more I like it. Diana Prince, Steve Trevor and the Amazons The casting of this movie was spot on. Gal Gadot crushes it as Diana Prince. She manages to capture a regal and stoic look of an Amazon Princess, but displays an emotional depth that is critical for selling her roll. Without a convincing main actor, this film wouldn't nearly be as good . Gadot captures the heart of Diana and makes us feel with her. Chris Pine is also an excellent addition as Steve Trevor. He plays the cynic very well - but he is also a charming fellow with a heart of gold that is trapped somewhere in that gray area between right and wrong. Other stand-outs include Robin Wright in her turn as Antiope, (I was having a Princess Bride nerd moment) and David Thewlis as Patrick Morgan (Remus!). While I don't want to risk much in spoilers, the film will have you guessing who the is villain until the very end. And how about those Amazons? They were some pretty bad-ass ladies! They definitely do not skip ab or leg day...or any other day for that matter. Wonder Woman: Final Thoughts Wonder Woman is a refreshing look at an origin story we've never really got to experience. It was poignant, slow-building and full of amazing visuals. The film was well cast with a killer soundtrack to match, and really - I feel like that is what puts it a step above other superhero films. Music plays a vital role in films; it really does bring the audience along for the ride. When that theme thundered through the theater, we all knew something was about to go down. I can't wait to see what they have in store for Diana Prince in the future. So what do you all think? Have you seen Wonder Woman? Perhaps you're looking for something a little lighter, like Guardians of The Galaxy 2. Let us know what you think in the comments below!
  18. It’s time to pop in the with Guardians of the Galaxy 2. Following the release of the first Marvel comic sleeper hit, fans were eager to see what direct James Gunn had in store for a sequel. Not only would he have to follow up his last act, Gunn was tasked with making all the characters work in this ensemble film - and make it possible to unite a bigger cast in the next Avengers flick. Let's face it, Guardians of the Galaxy was a little unexpected. It managed to hold the balance of comedic timing, a good story, a killer soundtrack and it knew how to hit you right in the feels. Did Vol. 2 capture the essence of the first? Well, maybe. Guarding the Galaxy We join our galaxy misfits in the midst of a job protecting valuable batteries for Ayesha, the leader of the Sovereign race, in exchange for Gamora's sister, Nebula. Following some crazy shenanigans, the guardians find themselves on the wrong side of the Sovereign's weapons. Amidst their daring escape, the team is outmatched when they are rescued by an unlikely ally: a man named Ego, claiming to be Peter's father. With this new information, the group must split up, but danger awaits. Ayesha is not about to give up. She hires Yondu and the Ravagers to hunt down Quill and crew. With so many twists and turns, will the Guardians of The Galaxy manage to escape their enemies, and is Ego who he claims to be? Flip Over To Side B I'm going to get this part out of the way - Guardians of the Galaxy 2 is not as good as the first. It's really hard to make the sequel better than the first, especially when most of the story centers on one of the ensemble. I mean, there are intertwining stories that keep everyone involved. While that works, it still makes the story on a whole suffer a little bit. Another thing that suffered was the jokes. While most of jokes did hit, when they missed- they missed hard. Also, a main pain point for me was the soundtrack. The first one was so epic, but this one was a little lacking. Now, with that all out of the way, let's talk about what's awesome about this movie! The cast works very well together, and that is a must for an ensemble piece. The additional characters added new flair and each actor played their part very well. Baby Groot was equal parts hilarious and adorable, as expected. I loved Rocket - but I'm biased, since he is my favorite. And while the story did have it's weak points, it was still a lot of fun and it will draw you in. I really enjoyed the addition of Ego, Mantis, Nebula and Yondu. It was interesting to see how other characters fit into the original group and how they handled a new issue. The story wasn't so much about them being hired to save the day. The focus was a personal quest for all of them in the end, and it was really enjoyable. Though not as good as the first, I really enjoyed where the story went. Paternal, Eternal, and Trash Bandits The returning cast in Guardians of the Galaxy 2 was fantastic. Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldana, Dave Bautista were great - though Drax was a bit over the top when it came to the 'jokes.' Vin Diesel and Bradley Cooper lent their voices for my two favorite characters: Rocket and Baby Groot. I just like the character dynamic. It's hard to beat. Karen Gillan also reprises her role as Nebula, and she was pretty good despite her constant intense face. I guess it's tough when your father replaces all of your body parts with machinery. However, out of all of the returning cast, Michael Rooker was the most impressive as Yondu. He really played his part well. On to the newcomers, Pom Klementieff and Kurt Russell were great additions to the MCU. They carry a bit of mystery and the payoff at the end is great. The cast chemistry in general really makes this movie. The Sovereigns play creepy "perfect" beings pretty well, and Taserface is a mix laughable and physically intimidating. It was a film well cast. Guardians of the Galaxy 2: Final Thoughts While it's tough for a sequel to surpass the original, Guardians of the Galaxy 2 is a lot of fun. It manages to capture the spirit of the first, and it really focuses on character development. While not all of the jokes hit, it was still hilarious - and the post credit scenes are great, as usual. There may even be some surprise cameos! (There are...trust me.) If you are looking for a good time at the movies, this is one MCU flick you can't miss. So what do you think? Have you seen Guardians of The Galaxy 2? Or maybe you are looking for something more gritty, like Logan? Perhaps DC is more your speed with Wonder Woman (coming soon!). Let us know what you thought in the comments below!
  19. The in Hugh Jackman’s Wolverine story is bittersweet, to say the least. After Deadpool paved the way for “rated R” comic book possibilities, X-Men fans were treated to this character’s swan song in the best way possible. As we say good-bye to Jackman, we can only wonder if anyone else will be worthy of unleashing the adamantium claws. While the fanbase knew this was coming, Patrick Stewart took this time to throw his retirement of Professor Xavier into the mix. While this certainly marks the end of a legacy, Logan certainly is a film to go out on. [caption id=attachment_20172" align="aligncenter" width="2400] L1006049 - Hugh Jackman stars as Logan/Wolverine in LOGAN. Photo Credit: James Mangold.[/caption] A Dark Time For Mutants In the year 2029, mutants are on the brink of extinction. The time of the X-Men has long past and James Howlett, aka Logan, aka Wolverine, is struggling through his illness rattled life working as a chauffeur. He lives with an ailing Charles Xavier and a mutant tracker, attempting to live a quiet life when a mysterious woman enters his life. Gabriela Lopez pleads with Logan to help escort a young girl named Laura to North Dakota to a place called “Eden." After an initial refusal, it becomes very apparent that Laura is no normal child when a legion of soldiers known as the Revenant tries to track her down. Logan is trapped in a crossroads between caring for Charles and protecting this girl, but much more is at stake than he may realize. Not Your Typical Comic Flick While the title would make it seem like this “should” be a comic-bookie flick, I assure you it is not. After the first few scenes, it’s very clear that this movie is rated R for a reason. That being said, it doesn’t try to hit viewers over the head with it. There is swearing, a fair amount of gore, but the movie isn’t rated R just for the heck of it. The film is able to hit the right narrative tone because of it. We are introduced to a worn and weary Wolverine and it is obvious that he’s a shadow of his former self. The story is heavy with the reality that the world has changed; mutants are no longer a part of it. At the same time, with the introduction of Laura, there is a glimmer of hope. There is a lot of heavy tension throughout the film. It's balanced with some quiet moments and character building. The narrative was very character focused and it really hit all of the feels. The only thing the film seemed to lack was action. Don’t get me wrong – there was action. However, it was spaced out (probably to allow the audience to catch a collective breath.) When the action scenes did commence, they were worth the wait. There was one scene in particular that really captured that old Wolverine magic, but it was very brief. I guess that’s part of Logan’s theme: passing the torch to the next generation. I only wish I got to see a little more of that generation. The Wolverine Himself Actor portrayal: what can I say about it? The actor portrayal is spot on as always. Hugh Jackman is Wolverine – and it’s interesting to see him play this character from a different perspective. Sir Patrick Steward is remarkable as always as Professor Xavier. The real stand out is Dafne Keen as Laura Kinney. The film rested on a connection with this little girl and she delivered. She played the role with ferocity and quiet rage that could put her co-actors to shame. Finally, we come to the villains. Boyd Holbrook does a decent job playing a cocky jerk, while Richard E. Grant follows up with a creepy scientist. While the film was great, the villainy wasn't on par with any legendary antagonists by any means. Then again, this really wasn’t what the film was shooting for. Logan: Final Thoughts This is truly the end of an era. While all of the films with Wolverine weren't exactly stellar, Hugh Jackman did the character justice. Logan is a wonderful send-off, and I'll admit it left me feeling a little hollow inside. This may be the last X-Men film starring Jackman and Steward, but their portrayal will always be the one to beat. One can only hope that we can follow the new generation and that they prove better than the last. So what do you all think? Have you seen Logan? Need more action? Check out John Wick: Chapter 2. Let us know in the comments below!
  20. Back in 2001, Nintendo was on the verge of releasing it's latest console following the N64. This new system would take a step away from the classic cartridges in favor of slim and small discs and come in a lightweight cube-inspired design. That's not all that was planned for the future of Nintendo. The fans had long awaited a video game starring the brother of one of the most famous franchise icons of all time. Yes, 2001 brought the launch of the Nintendo Gamecube and Luigi's Mansion. The Younger Mario Luigi's Mansion, while not the first game to feature our favorite green plumber as the main character, is one of most memorable games for the Gamecube. It's a "ghost" hunting action-adventure game that pits Luigi against an unstoppable horde of ghouls and goblins. We join Luigi as he arrives at a creepy mansion he and his brother, Mario, won in a contest they never entered. Armed with only a flashlight, the younger brother discovers that something foul is afoot when he is promptly accosted by a legion of shadowy figures. Lucky for Luigi, Professor E. Gadd, a paranormal scientist, is on the scene testing out his newest device: the Poltergust 3000. Fearing something had happened to Mario, Luigi takes up the task of clearing out the house of ghosts and searching for his brother. Cleaning Luigi's Mansion The main goal of this action-platform adventure is to find what happened to Mario. Players guide Luigi through the mansion picking up treasure, sucking up ghosts, and uncovering secrets. In order to conduct a proper search, players must go through every room and clear out all of the enemies. After a room is clear, Luigi can search for money, special items, or keys. The game is broken into four parts: one for each floor of the mansion. Luigi, as terrified as he is, is armed with a flashlight, the ghost-sucking, element-blasting Poltergust 3000 and the Game Boy Horror communicator. Players can use the Game Boy Horror Communicator to check out a map of the mansion and keep track of the areas they've explored. However, before a room can be marked on the map, it has to be cleared of all the ghosts. In order to catch a ghost, Luigi must blast them with his flashlight to stun them. While stunned, players can try to suck up the ghost, draining their HP. If Luigi is hit, he will lose some hit points and drop some of his treasure. While some ghosts are fairly easy to catch, others have higher hit points and must be defeated with special items.Players can also encounter Boos, which are a little trickery to deal with than normal ghosts. Once a player catches all the ghost in an area, they must face the boss ghost. Once defeated, the ghosts are loaded into Professor E. Gadd's portrait machine and they are all available for your viewing pleasure. Treasures, Secrets, and Hidden Toads While most of Luigi's Mansion is straight forward, there are few other tidbits that should be noted. While exploring, Luigi can find a few Toads hiding away. These little guys act as the save points of the game. Of course, if there are any creepy crawlies around, you can't use them. While Luigi makes his way through the mansion ghost-busting, he can make a good buck. Treasure is hidden everywhere in the boards, tapestries and cupboards. Even after a room is cleared, Luigi should be searching everywhere while he feebly cries for his brother. This is the best way to scare out hiding Boos; they could be lurking anywhere, even if the lights have come up. At the end of the game, the total money is tallied and players are given a score A-H. Depending on the score, a whole new mode can be unlocked - so it's a good idea to horde that moola. Re-Visiting Luigi's Mansion Luigi's Mansion is one of those games that is easy to pick up and just play. It's not very complicated and it comes with a fair amount of challenge. It's very different from other Nintendo titles, but it's incredibly short. I don't necessarily think that being a short game is a bad thing, if the price is right, of course. But the music starts to get repetitive after some time, and I wish Luigi had a bit more to say other than " ." Still, it was refreshing to get a game from his perspective that wasn't terrible. (*coughMarioisMissingcough*) That being said, this game is incredibly fun. It's pretty satisfying to suck up all those ghouls and see the lights turn on in the mansion. Considering when the game was made, the graphics hold up pretty well, too! The puzzles are interesting and can be challenging at times, and while the story isn't something we haven't experienced, it does the job. The only additional criticism I could have for this game concerns the controls. At times, controlling the Poltergust 3000 was a bit of a pain, especially when you had to redirect Luigi while using it. Once you get used to the controls, it's a lot of fun. Overall, this is an excellent title to revisit. What do you all think? Have you played Luigi's Mansion lately? How about Luigi's Mansion: Dark Moon? Let us know in the comments below.
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