(another backdated post...)
This one didn't happen either. I spent the day reading and teaching my son how to play the BattleTech board game. Giant Fighting Robots! Woohoo! I'd much rather connect with my son than reconnect with an old friend. Besides, finding some of those people has proven downright difficult over the years.
Showing posts with label Games. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Games. Show all posts
Sunday, June 07, 2009
Monday, August 27, 2007
A Week Late and Several Dollars Short
Well, I’ve been back for a week now, so I guess I should post an update. Gen Con was…well, I could have made it better for myself, but there were just too many things that I just didn’t understand how they worked. Not only that, but I was really missing my family. Between them being gone the week before and then me being gone, I was a little lonely.
So…Gen Con. It’s really not a place for someone who is alone and broke. I took a total of $3 with me: $1.50 for the bus ride from the airport and $1.50 for the ride back (I packed my 10+ year old MREs to eat…not great, but I survived quite nicely, thank you very much!). As it turns out, most of the events at Gen Con cost money. So I spent a lot of time wandering the exhibitor hall playing demo games and browsing through stall/shops. I did attend a few panel discussions (which were free), but that was near the end of the convention. I didn’t realize that I could get in without a ticket to those. So there was a lot of wasted time. Also, never having been to a convention before, I didn’t know what I was doing or where to go for the things I was interested in. It was a bit frustrating.
While there, I had the interview for the Ultimate Gamer Test. Long story short: I didn’t win. Which is fine. I really don’t have the time to commit to something like that. I’ll be happy to do my little part and have fun with it along the way with no expectations or onus of responsibility. I still plan on doing the blog on gaming with kids, but it isn’t something that is being required of me.
And then there was the airplane trip back home. Must have been amateur night up there in the cockpit. I don’t want to fly again for a long time.
The worst part about the whole trip is going back into work on Monday morning and having 200+ emails to wade through – most of it pointless and irritating.
So…Gen Con. It’s really not a place for someone who is alone and broke. I took a total of $3 with me: $1.50 for the bus ride from the airport and $1.50 for the ride back (I packed my 10+ year old MREs to eat…not great, but I survived quite nicely, thank you very much!). As it turns out, most of the events at Gen Con cost money. So I spent a lot of time wandering the exhibitor hall playing demo games and browsing through stall/shops. I did attend a few panel discussions (which were free), but that was near the end of the convention. I didn’t realize that I could get in without a ticket to those. So there was a lot of wasted time. Also, never having been to a convention before, I didn’t know what I was doing or where to go for the things I was interested in. It was a bit frustrating.
While there, I had the interview for the Ultimate Gamer Test. Long story short: I didn’t win. Which is fine. I really don’t have the time to commit to something like that. I’ll be happy to do my little part and have fun with it along the way with no expectations or onus of responsibility. I still plan on doing the blog on gaming with kids, but it isn’t something that is being required of me.
And then there was the airplane trip back home. Must have been amateur night up there in the cockpit. I don’t want to fly again for a long time.
The worst part about the whole trip is going back into work on Monday morning and having 200+ emails to wade through – most of it pointless and irritating.
Thursday, August 09, 2007
Updates on that Other Stuff
So, besides this Ultimate Gamer Test, what else has been happening? Last Saturday I got some tickets for the local minor league baseball game through work (along with free food and drink coupons) and took the kids to go watch. For what it was and for how old they are, the kids did a fantastic job. Isaiah got chosen to go out on the field and announce the first batter. He was THRILLED! He got a free T-shirt and one of the game balls to take home. I think he wants to be a professional ball player now.
Everyone else enjoyed the game as well. I was surprised at how much I enjoyed it...not in a rabid fan sort of way either. There were two home runs and quite a few really good defensive catches. All in all, it was a great weekend.
However, after the game, Isaiah went down to spend a few days with Leslie's parents and younger brothers. He got to go hang out with his uncles and I'm sure they had a great time. I can't say for sure because on Wednesday, Leslie took the other kids to the family reunion/camping trip and will come back this Saturday. That means I won't see my girls for three days and my boy for a whole week. Let me tell ya...I hate coming home to an empty house. You'd think it'd be relaxing. I don't like it.
Why didn't I go to the reunion? Work. And GenCon. I don't have enough vacation time to attend both and I certainly can't afford to take unpaid leave. I'm sad to miss out on the camping - and even more sad that I'll miss most of next week with my family as well. At least I'll have four days of mad-crazy gaming to make up for it...
In other news, I've thrown my hat into the ring for an electrical apprenticeship. Because the parent-company of my work is the local utility, I am able to see all the internal-only job postings, and one of them is for a candidate pool for electrical mechanic apprentices. I've taken and passed all the required tests and submitted my application packet (complete with test scores, military training certificates - in electronics nonetheless - and I even found a letter of recommendation from my training squadron commander about my average military tech school grades...98%!). If I do get accepted, it will nearly double my annual salary...and that's just the start. Apparently electricians who work for a utility company (as opposed to construction) make an unbelievable (to me anyway) amount of money. If I don't get it, no worries...but with the luck I have been having lately, I think my chances are higher than average. The posting doesn't close until the end of this month, so I'll just have to wait and see.
Anything else? Oh yeah, I've been asked to write a blog about gaming with kids to post on this Gleemax site once it gets up and running in the next week or so. I won't be reproducing my posts for that here, but I'll make sure to put up a link so you all can read my less-than-expert advice and thoughts on playing games with kids between the ages of 5 and 11. I've got the first two posts already written, but you'll just have to wait like everyone else. So nyeah...
Everyone else enjoyed the game as well. I was surprised at how much I enjoyed it...not in a rabid fan sort of way either. There were two home runs and quite a few really good defensive catches. All in all, it was a great weekend.
However, after the game, Isaiah went down to spend a few days with Leslie's parents and younger brothers. He got to go hang out with his uncles and I'm sure they had a great time. I can't say for sure because on Wednesday, Leslie took the other kids to the family reunion/camping trip and will come back this Saturday. That means I won't see my girls for three days and my boy for a whole week. Let me tell ya...I hate coming home to an empty house. You'd think it'd be relaxing. I don't like it.
Why didn't I go to the reunion? Work. And GenCon. I don't have enough vacation time to attend both and I certainly can't afford to take unpaid leave. I'm sad to miss out on the camping - and even more sad that I'll miss most of next week with my family as well. At least I'll have four days of mad-crazy gaming to make up for it...
In other news, I've thrown my hat into the ring for an electrical apprenticeship. Because the parent-company of my work is the local utility, I am able to see all the internal-only job postings, and one of them is for a candidate pool for electrical mechanic apprentices. I've taken and passed all the required tests and submitted my application packet (complete with test scores, military training certificates - in electronics nonetheless - and I even found a letter of recommendation from my training squadron commander about my average military tech school grades...98%!). If I do get accepted, it will nearly double my annual salary...and that's just the start. Apparently electricians who work for a utility company (as opposed to construction) make an unbelievable (to me anyway) amount of money. If I don't get it, no worries...but with the luck I have been having lately, I think my chances are higher than average. The posting doesn't close until the end of this month, so I'll just have to wait and see.
Anything else? Oh yeah, I've been asked to write a blog about gaming with kids to post on this Gleemax site once it gets up and running in the next week or so. I won't be reproducing my posts for that here, but I'll make sure to put up a link so you all can read my less-than-expert advice and thoughts on playing games with kids between the ages of 5 and 11. I've got the first two posts already written, but you'll just have to wait like everyone else. So nyeah...
Wednesday, August 01, 2007
The Final Test
The final test:
Okay, honestly, I really don't care to write a thousand word essay. I graduated from college last year, remember? I should be done with essays. Oh well. And second, I really don't care. Period. Let the site be what it will be. I don't want to have to spend a lot of brain power on my entertainment. This isn't a job offer or anything. It's for a volunteer position. Not sure if I really even want it. I've already won a trip to Gen Con. I'm happy.
Be that as it may, here is my entry...in all of it's unarticulated glory:
* * * * *
...and here is the associated "discussion"...and I will use the term very lightly as it has a high potential for butt-headedness.
"As we near Gen Con the Ultimate Gamer Test final contestants are being asked to complete one more task here on our forums. They are to write an essay of up to 1000 words that will discuss their biggest hope and greatest concern regarding the upcoming Gleemax web site and its features.
These essays will be posted in the Gleemax Feature/Suggestions forums for community feedback and discussion by Sunday, August 4th at 11:59 pm EDT. These threads will remain open for discussion until August 12th. The posts will be judged on the articulation of their thoughts and the quality of the subsequent discussion.
Results of this final round in conjunction with the interview at Gen Con will determine the winner and runner up who will serve on the Gleemax Advisory Board."
Okay, honestly, I really don't care to write a thousand word essay. I graduated from college last year, remember? I should be done with essays. Oh well. And second, I really don't care. Period. Let the site be what it will be. I don't want to have to spend a lot of brain power on my entertainment. This isn't a job offer or anything. It's for a volunteer position. Not sure if I really even want it. I've already won a trip to Gen Con. I'm happy.
Be that as it may, here is my entry...in all of it's unarticulated glory:
I haven’t read a lot of gaming articles. I don’t spend much time reading through online forums. I certainly don’t claim to have years of research into the esoteric aspects of the greater gaming community. I am not a businessman. I am not an analyst. I am not a person with a finger on the pulse of any online (or offline for that matter) game. What I am is a husband and a father; I am also a (casual?) gamer. It is through my interactions with my family that I view my gaming activities. I use my game time to strengthen the bonds between myself and my wife and my children.
When I first discovered Gleemax, it was the last day to take part in the multiple-choice part of the Ultimate Gamer Test. I took it because, having been around games for the last thirty years, I wanted to know how good I would do. I completed it and logged out, not planning to return for a few months; the concept of a “Home For Gamers” appealed to me, but there didn’t seem to be any reason for me to hang around until the site was up and running. I definitely didn’t expect to hear back about the test.
Three rounds later, I have to admit that I never gave any serious thought to what I wanted the site to be. I was just going along, having fun. And it has been fun. So when I actually stop to think about what I would like (with no knowledge of what is planned or even what is reasonably possible) for Gleemax to be, it would revolve around having the fun continue. Because opinions about what is fun can, and do, differ greatly, I can only speak to my own (and my family’s) fancies.
The very first thing that comes to mind is the concept of “games within a game.” I would love to see Gleemax as more than just a website with text and hyperlinks. Imagine a sort of meta-game where this world is brought into existence and within that world is a theme that brings people together to play games online or organize offline gatherings. It doesn’t necessarily have to be a MUD-type environment with avatars running around, but there is an appeal for me in something like that. I can visualize little Gleemians, Gleewians, or Gleexians (male, female, or other) sitting at a table playing an online game, or standing around a black/white board that links to a wiki or modifiable map where several people are creating a community-made RPG setting. It is a “social” meta-game instead of one that has a way to “win.”
Part of being in a community is a sense of ownership. Individuals won’t feel like they belong unless they “own” their own little corner – be that customized home pages (with databases of games and or characters, links to favorite online games, and ways to showcase their latest RPG creation) that others can visit or a virtual reality home that they can decorate how they want and invite their friends over to play games privately without worrying about strangers dropping in. “Come over to my place and play (insert your favorite game here)!”
Another aspect of community is feeling that your own piece of the world is part of a larger whole. From his/her own corner, an individual could then travel to their city or region (such as Spokane, Washington, USA) to see what is happening locally with other gaming groups or sales/events at brick-and-mortar stores. Not enough happening locally? Planning to do some real-world traveling? Go to another area to see what is happening at that locale and find out about people, groups, and stores before you even leave home.
Of course there would need to be a central place for games to be played…like a Convention Center of sorts where people from all over the world can come together to play old favorites or try new creations (Gen Con Online anyone?).
In the public areas of Gleemax, I would like to see (and this will be extremely controversial) a Public Code of Conduct where there would be optional chat filters for those who desire such things. Violations of the Code (such as circumventing chat filters, spamming, harassment, etc.) could be reported and dealt with by administrators, in a way they feel is appropriate. Now, before people start screaming “CENSORSHIP! Heresy!” this would only be for the public areas. Within the games, forums, or whatever areas are created/controlled by individuals, anything goes (with “anything” being determined by the creator of the game/area). This would allow the freedom of expression that some desire while allowing those who choose otherwise to have that option (perhaps with a splash screen/popup showing the “settings” of the area before entering) as well.
My four biggest concerns for Gleemax are: lack of players, lack of games, lack of multi-platform support (Win/Mac/Linux/etc.), and lack of organization. First, there is nothing worse than having a great game site but not having the critical mass of people so a game can be joined at any hour of any day. Second, there might be plenty of gamers online, but if the games aren’t there, or if a wide variety of games doesn’t exist, it can grow stale quickly; socializing will only take me so far. I want to PLAY! Third, if Gleemax does move beyond a simple web browser-based site, as a Mac user I would hate to be shut out because I don’t have the right technology (this could even be expanded to those like me who are on dial up or even to those who don’t have regular Internet access…can casual gamers log in once a week/month/whatever and not have to overcome a maze of terminology and culture?) Fourth, there can be gamers and games and support, but if I can’t find what I need/want, all of that effort is wasted.
...and here is the associated "discussion"...and I will use the term very lightly as it has a high potential for butt-headedness.
Tuesday, July 24, 2007
Clean Bill of Health and a Trip to Indiana
I had a doctor's appointment today. It has literally been decades since I had a checkup. I was a bit curious to what rare ailments I might have (not Maid's Elbow...PLEASE...anything but Maid's Elbow!) As it turns out, I'm perfectly healthy. I'll try not to be too disappointed. A brain tumor sure would have explained a lot, however.
I do have to go back for some lab work. They want to screen me for diabetes and high cholesterol. Something about "family history"...go figure. At least I squeaked out of having a colonoscopy...'nuff said.
In other news...I'M GOING TO GEN CON! WOO HOO! Yeah, there is still another task to perform and an interview, but at this point I figure I've already got my prize. I mean, a free trip to Gen Con: Plane ticket? Paid for. Hotel? Paid for. Entrance fee? Paid for. And hopefully I'll come back with lots of swag.
Yeah, I'm geeking out about it.
I do have to go back for some lab work. They want to screen me for diabetes and high cholesterol. Something about "family history"...go figure. At least I squeaked out of having a colonoscopy...'nuff said.
In other news...I'M GOING TO GEN CON! WOO HOO! Yeah, there is still another task to perform and an interview, but at this point I figure I've already got my prize. I mean, a free trip to Gen Con: Plane ticket? Paid for. Hotel? Paid for. Entrance fee? Paid for. And hopefully I'll come back with lots of swag.
Yeah, I'm geeking out about it.
Friday, July 20, 2007
Creating New Gamers Since 1997!
No Saturday morning cartoons at this house! It’s wake up early and grab the board games.
Later that morning, everyone takes a trip down to one of the three local game stores to browse the games and watch a few rounds of the Magic: The Gathering 10th Anniversary Tournament.
Back at home, the joys of fantasy hack & slash dungeon crawling is played out with the old Hero’s Quest board game.
Nostalgia runs high as Dad re-lives the glory days of his youth with the Red Box Dungeons & Dragons RPG. Mystara lives on!
During family game night, a homemade turntable helps those with shorter arms reach all parts of the board.
Before the Internet (gasp!), playing wargames solo was a way of life for some grognards. However, explaining the entertainment value of pushing around cardboard chits can prove to be difficult.
When Dad comes home from work, there is just enough time for a quick game of Mario Party on the Nintendo Gamecube.
After the kids are in bed, some adult companionship and a quiet game can help relax the mind...
...or stimulate the imagination.
Why grow up limiting yourself to just reaching for the stars when you can reach for the stars AND the top of the game shelf!
Friday, July 13, 2007
A Picture's Worth
The next round is a photo essay. Your challenge will be to take 10 photographs, showing us your gamer community. Your gamer community can include where you game, who you game with, how you game, or any other aspects of “community” you want to show us.
In addition, you have 250 total words with which to write captions for your photos (approximately 25 words each).
Oh man...I don't really have a gaming group. Well, that's not entirely true. I do play games with my kids, so I guess that is who I will take pictures of. It might even give me some bonus points - not just because they are cute, but because it will be a different group of gamers from all the other contestants.
Perhaps they will want someone who has views on the younger gamers...
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
Tuesday, July 03, 2007
Silence is Golden
Okay here are the instructions I was given:
Win or not, I had an incredibly fun time doing this. Taking off on the "Be creative" phrase, I went and put together an olde-tyme, silent movie...complete with the music that sounds like it is coming from a tin can (or is that just my speakers?). Honestly, I don't know if that is what they are looking for or not, but I had fun and learned how to use the iMovie program that was hiding on my computer.
There is a lot more I would have like to do, but given the limitations on available equipment, time, and my lack of acting ability, I think it turned out alright...for what it is. Besides, fake-aging the movie covered up a lot of blurry and bumpy shots (VERY small camera...like cell phone small. Not exactly the best thing for a project like this.)
In any case, HERE IT IS!. It's about 8 MB in size, so if you are on a dial up, it might take awhile. Just remember, I got my education in Anthropology, not Cinematography!
So...honestly...does it make you interested in playing the game, or are you just left with: "That guy is an idiot..."?
Steve,
Congratulations! You have been selected to advance to the next round of the Ultimate Gamer Test.
The Next Challenge:
Produce a 3 minute video in which you pitch your favorite game to a theoretical fellow gamer who has not played it before.
You must then post the video to a publicly accessible web site (like YouTube, etc.) and send a link to the video to UGT@wizards.com by 11:59 p.m. EDT, Sunday, July 8.
The videos will be judged on three criteria:
1. Engaging - does your video engage the viewer and make them want to keep watching?
2. Compelling - does your video make the viewer want to play your favorite game?
3. Overall Presentation - is the quality of your video good? Is it entertaining to watch?
Considerations when making the video:
* Your video must be P.G. No nudity, bad language or obscenity of any kind (we know, this was the first thing you thought of).
* Be creative. There are many ways to show off your favorite game.
* You must appear in your video.
* The video can be no longer than 3 minutes.
* Be sure that you post it to a publicly available web site (no password, etc.)
Five finalists will win a trip to Gen Con, Indianapolis from August 16 -19, with 4-day passes, airfare, and hotel paid for by Wizards of the Coast. In addition, the winner will receive a seat on the Gleemax Advisory Board as well as $1000 in Wizards product. The runner-up will also receive a seat on the Gleemax Advisory Board. See http://www.gleemax.com/articles/rules.html for full rules and details.
Win or not, I had an incredibly fun time doing this. Taking off on the "Be creative" phrase, I went and put together an olde-tyme, silent movie...complete with the music that sounds like it is coming from a tin can (or is that just my speakers?). Honestly, I don't know if that is what they are looking for or not, but I had fun and learned how to use the iMovie program that was hiding on my computer.
There is a lot more I would have like to do, but given the limitations on available equipment, time, and my lack of acting ability, I think it turned out alright...for what it is. Besides, fake-aging the movie covered up a lot of blurry and bumpy shots (VERY small camera...like cell phone small. Not exactly the best thing for a project like this.)
In any case, HERE IT IS!. It's about 8 MB in size, so if you are on a dial up, it might take awhile. Just remember, I got my education in Anthropology, not Cinematography!
So...honestly...does it make you interested in playing the game, or are you just left with: "That guy is an idiot..."?
Friday, June 29, 2007
The Alien Brain in a Jar Made Me Do It!
Okay, so I enter this contest on a complete lark. It was a timed test titled "The Ultimate Gamer Test" or something along those lines. Anyway, I figured I knew enough about games to give it a go...at least it would be fun to see how I did. As it turns out, I made the semi-final list.
Unfortunately, the next step is having to make a 3-minute video hyping up my favorite game. Egads...not only do I not have a video camera, but I don't know the first thing about video editing. As it turns out, my Macintosh computer has a program already on it that will make the job easier.
Now to find a camera. I'm hoping my in-laws can help out.
I have a few ideas about what to do, but I'm not going to say just yet. I'll be sure to post a link to my (most likely) horrible creation when it is finished. It should be fun and only slightly embarrassing. However, the grand prize is good (if fairly geeky).
I'm up against about 50 other people (I had originally thought it was only 10), and I have to have it submitted by July 8th. Wish me luck!
Unfortunately, the next step is having to make a 3-minute video hyping up my favorite game. Egads...not only do I not have a video camera, but I don't know the first thing about video editing. As it turns out, my Macintosh computer has a program already on it that will make the job easier.
Now to find a camera. I'm hoping my in-laws can help out.
I have a few ideas about what to do, but I'm not going to say just yet. I'll be sure to post a link to my (most likely) horrible creation when it is finished. It should be fun and only slightly embarrassing. However, the grand prize is good (if fairly geeky).
I'm up against about 50 other people (I had originally thought it was only 10), and I have to have it submitted by July 8th. Wish me luck!
Sunday, January 07, 2007
Reputation and Religion
Awhile back I mention I was playing Diplomacy by email. Since turns only happen once a week, not much game time has passed. In any case, here is the map update:
(Since I can't get this new version of Blogger to NOT cut off the eastern portion of the map, here is a smaller version of the whole thing)
Again, I am playing Russia (the white pieces/territory) and 18 dots (supply centers) are needed to win. If you compare the old map with this one, you may notice that my former ally, the Austrian-Hungary Empire (red) is gone. Yup, he dropped the game and Italy gobbled up his territory. Fortunately, he left before I openly committed myself to the alliance and I have been able to strike up a non-involvement agreement with Italy. I would let him have the Austrian lands if he kept out of the Turkish lands. So far the agreement has held and I am finally in a position to crush Turkey...alone if need be.
Recently, the German player dropped the game as well and was replaced by someone who is...umm...not as good with the tactical decisions. Germany is on a severe downslide. England still isn't looking too good and, indeed, his time is short. France has made a bit of a comeback against the confused German troops.
Now, to associate this with the title of my post: Turkey and England both refuse to talk to me and their final messages were filled with...how to put this...uncomplimentary words. This was due to my having either lied or broken a treaty early. I don't think Italy trusts me - I can't say I trust him either, so that is probably healthy for both of us. My point is this: although the other players don't know anything about my religious views, it has given me pause to think if a game like this can be played in a way that I can answer the following question in the affirmative: "Are you honest with your fellow man?"
Yes, it is a game, but should that matter? In my life, right now, I could never blatantly double-cross someone - I value my reputation too much and would be ashamed of myself. I have done something like this in the past and I am still ashamed whenever I think about it, even though I was forgiven by the person.
In this game, it has stung to be called names that I probably deserved, but it doesn't reach the level of "shame" because I justify it as a "just a game." If you have ever watched the TV show "Survivor," it reminds me of all the bitter and hateful people at the end who berate and insult the two finalists just because they aren't there themselves. It's all sour grapes, but they may feel (right or wrong) betrayed by the object of their scorn.
So, are my actions hypocritical ? Perhaps. I still feel I can draw the line between reality and a game and act accordingly. But is the loss of real reputation (as perceived by others) worth the gains of victory in a game?
It's an interesting thought to think...
(Since I can't get this new version of Blogger to NOT cut off the eastern portion of the map, here is a smaller version of the whole thing)
Again, I am playing Russia (the white pieces/territory) and 18 dots (supply centers) are needed to win. If you compare the old map with this one, you may notice that my former ally, the Austrian-Hungary Empire (red) is gone. Yup, he dropped the game and Italy gobbled up his territory. Fortunately, he left before I openly committed myself to the alliance and I have been able to strike up a non-involvement agreement with Italy. I would let him have the Austrian lands if he kept out of the Turkish lands. So far the agreement has held and I am finally in a position to crush Turkey...alone if need be.
Recently, the German player dropped the game as well and was replaced by someone who is...umm...not as good with the tactical decisions. Germany is on a severe downslide. England still isn't looking too good and, indeed, his time is short. France has made a bit of a comeback against the confused German troops.
Now, to associate this with the title of my post: Turkey and England both refuse to talk to me and their final messages were filled with...how to put this...uncomplimentary words. This was due to my having either lied or broken a treaty early. I don't think Italy trusts me - I can't say I trust him either, so that is probably healthy for both of us. My point is this: although the other players don't know anything about my religious views, it has given me pause to think if a game like this can be played in a way that I can answer the following question in the affirmative: "Are you honest with your fellow man?"
Yes, it is a game, but should that matter? In my life, right now, I could never blatantly double-cross someone - I value my reputation too much and would be ashamed of myself. I have done something like this in the past and I am still ashamed whenever I think about it, even though I was forgiven by the person.
In this game, it has stung to be called names that I probably deserved, but it doesn't reach the level of "shame" because I justify it as a "just a game." If you have ever watched the TV show "Survivor," it reminds me of all the bitter and hateful people at the end who berate and insult the two finalists just because they aren't there themselves. It's all sour grapes, but they may feel (right or wrong) betrayed by the object of their scorn.
So, are my actions hypocritical ? Perhaps. I still feel I can draw the line between reality and a game and act accordingly. But is the loss of real reputation (as perceived by others) worth the gains of victory in a game?
It's an interesting thought to think...
Tuesday, July 12, 2005
Y!PP Monkey Business
Well, not only did I not win the writing contest in Puzzle Pirates, but I wasn't even on the runner-up list. I'm quite disappointed with the whole deal. I guess that is what you have to deal with when you don't know your audience (judges) very well. Oh well. No monkey for me.
Our crew is pretty much dead now. Most of the active people switched after the split and now those of us left are debating the merits of recruiting, merging, or just disbanding. Such is the online life.
I really wish I had a good internet connection and another computer so Leslie and I could start our own crew. She is also a fan of the game, and a good puzzler as well. I heard that my sister, Lori, played the game for some time awhile back, but isn't currently playing. It'd be kinda neat to have a family crew going - but that probably isn't going to happen.
Our crew is pretty much dead now. Most of the active people switched after the split and now those of us left are debating the merits of recruiting, merging, or just disbanding. Such is the online life.
I really wish I had a good internet connection and another computer so Leslie and I could start our own crew. She is also a fan of the game, and a good puzzler as well. I heard that my sister, Lori, played the game for some time awhile back, but isn't currently playing. It'd be kinda neat to have a family crew going - but that probably isn't going to happen.
Sunday, June 12, 2005
Yarr! Legend of the Nine!
"Places, PLACES EVERYBODY!"
"Cecil, bring up the lights just a bit. THERE! That's it."
"Will SOMEBODY get that CHICKEN off the stage! That doesn't come in till scene twenty-three! Sheesh!"
"Okay, let's see."
"The Swashbuckler's hair is out of place - MAKE-UP!"
"Better . . . can't disappoint the Teen Idol crowd . . . "
"Are we ready? Let's get this show on the road!"
"ROLL 'EM!!"
* * *
I – The Fall of Eris
(In which she is killed by the Enemy…yada yada yada…)
At the top of the mountain of a lone island, Eris the Ocean Master clung to a tree trunk as if out of breath. The sun was setting below the horizon of the Ocean and the light was beginning to fade.
I’m tired, she thought. I know it is because of him, but I am tired all the same. No energy to run any more. Where are the others? It shouldn’t be like this.
She looked down along the beach. A lone crab wandered its way slowly across the sand. Eris paused to contemplate the plainness of its existence. How simple it would be to just be a crab, she thought. As her mind strayed, the crab suddenly disappeared. No, wait! There is its trail in the sand. It’s as if I blanked out and didn’t see it walk away, she thought.
It’s him. He is here. He has found me.
Despair descended upon her, the fingers of its alien presence curling around the thoughts of her mind. Finally her heart stops, frozen in the grip of eternal forgetfulness.
The Azure light of the Ocean dims. Midnight comes.
II – Concerning the Enemy
(And in this corner…Mr. Bad – with a capitol “B”!)
Before the Great Cleaver created the first of the Oceans, there was the Web of Life. The strands of which stretched throughout eternity connecting intelligences of different worlds with different ideas. But woven into the Web was the Enemy. In the beginning he was there, and he was strong. The intelligences felt his presence but were nigh unto helpless in fighting him, for they were as yet young and weak.
It was a struggle for the intelligences to stay connected through the Web – the Enemy was there, trying to thwart their unity. But the intelligences learned, over time, that while they could not defeat the Enemy yet, they could weaken him. And weaken him they did. The intelligences wove new and stronger strands and added them to the Web, strengthening their nodes, increasing their own numbers.
Although not as strong as he was in the beginning, the Enemy still holds tremendous power over the Mortals of the Oceans. Even the Great Cleaver is unable to fully contain his influence. But by the same token, the Enemy has little hold over the Great Cleaver and his resolve to carry on the fight.
The Enemy’s purpose is the ultimate destruction of the Web of Life. He is the source of the weakening of the fabric of the Oceans, rot, weathering, and corruption. He seeks to bring all things to a stop, causing oblivion. Mortals sailing the Oceans, although never seeing the Enemy, feel the effects of his presence nearby as matter is destroyed, energy is dissipated, time stagnates, and new thought is stopped.
But not all oppose the Enemy. There are those who choose to fight for this great evil. These foolish servants can be found all across the Web. They can easily be identified by the arcane form of language they use, such as the vile incantation: “0/\/\f6 /\/\y l33t 5ki11z pwn j00! ph33r /\/\3h!!11oneoneone”
Mortals have many names for the Enemy. The most common is derived from the stupor of mind and body felt, the lagging behind in reaction to the environment – the Enemy is then simply known as Lag.
III – Trials of the Nine
(Cleaver creates ten. Enemy tempts. Nine remain valiant. Enemy sulks.)
The Great Cleaver stood over the body of Eris. The mighty fall but the fight must go on, he thought to himself. Bending down, he scooped together ten mounds of sand from the Beach. To these he added the salt water of the Ocean. From this he fashioned the bodies of ten persons – five female and five male. The wind of the Air he directed into their lungs. From the body of Eris he gave each one a drop of life-giving Blood.
And they awoke and stood amazed at the world around them.
They walked along the beaches and under the trees with the Great Cleaver, learning all that he would teach them – from the heights of the Air to the depths of the Ocean. They learned they were sculpted by his hands and given life through the Blood of Eris. But, as happy as they were, it did not last.
“I must leave ye for awhile,” Cleaver said. “There be other matter to which I must attend to. I will send for ye when ye are ready. Fear not, and may the wind always blow in yer favor!”
The ten Children of Cleaver grieved at his absence, but in time the joys of their world and their companionship with each other dulled that grief. The days were long, the nights were warm, and they were happy once again.
One looked out over the Ocean with furrowed brow. “What is the matter, brother?” Others gathered around with concern. He pointed out across the sparkling waters and asked, “Do you all see that ship with the sails as black as night?”
“Yes. What of it? It has always been there. It never moves. It just IS.”
“Indeed,” he replied. “It has always been, perhaps from the Beginning. I have been Watching it. It occurred to me today that Cleaver might have left it for us.”
“Yes,” said another. “He said he would send for us! Perhaps this is his call.”
“How can that be,” a third asked. “It was here when Cleaver walked among us.”
“Can you not feel the power of the Ship? Even from this distance, I can feel something akin to the power of Cleaver, but somehow different, too.”
“We must go out and see if the Black Ship is indeed a call from the Great Cleaver.”
“No! I too feel something - but not wholesome, not safe. We must wait here for Cleaver. Surely he would send a clearer message?”
Long into the night they discussed the mystery of the Black Ship. Eventually, one showed great Wisdom in convincing the others closely explore it. If it was from Cleaver, then they should make haste in going out to it. If not, then they should learn what they could and report it to Cleaver when he returned.
They agreed on this counsel and on the morrow, the ten Children of Cleaver left their home and set out for the Black Ship. As they drew closer, their Blood started to race as if in remembrance of a forgotten past. Their minds started to doubt and, for the first time, they knew fear. Clearly this Ship was not sent by Cleaver, but from a presence full of hatred, destruction, and astonishing malice.
Several wanted to go back, flee from the onslaught of dread they were now facing. But one called out to the others, “Sisters and brothers! We must not turn back. We must Persist and overcome our fears. This is an Enemy to Cleaver – for such I now feel in my very soul.”
“Yes,” answered one of her brothers. “We must be Brave. For we are the Great Cleaver’s own children!”
Such encouragement brought the others back and together they continued on, pushing through their mind-numbing revulsion, until they all stood upon the mahogany planks of the Black Ship. The sails, as if made of Darkness itself, blocked the warming rays of the sun. The Children huddled together for warmth as they looked across the deserted ship.
Nothing was to be seen, but their attention was drawn to a hatchway that led below decks. “We must go down there,” one said. The others remained silent and followed.
Down below, the world they knew faded and despair hung in the very air. As if dreaming, they wandered the endless halls, lost. After a combination of eternity and mere moments they came upon a velvet couch whereupon lay the form of a woman, both beautiful and terrible to behold. Asleep or dead they could not say, but deep in their hearts they knew whom they looked upon.
“It is Eris! She in whose Death we have Life,” they whispered. Their whispers echoed, and with each echo a soft, woman’s voice was brought back to them.
“Yes, my children,” it said. “I am she whom you call Eris. I am the giver of Life, and Life I am able to take away. I am your Mother, your Father, and your World. Come to me, my children, and I shall take away your fears, your worries, and everything that troubles your mind. I am greater than Cleaver, and able to break the confines of the Oceans. I am the Great Spider on the Web of Life! I control the destinies of mortals and can show you the secrets behind the nothingness of the eternities – come to me!”
In silence they stood, afraid of the malevolence that radiated from the darkness with each word. Yet one moved forward. “Show me your secrets,” he said. “Give me your power. I am your Son and I will bring all to you so that not one will be lost.”
“Yes,” the voice hissed. “Come to me!” He stepped towards the form on the couch and was swallowed up in the shadowy mists.
“No!” The shout woke the others from their shock. “You are not Eris! You are an Enemy and your vileness is shown in using her form.” The sister’s voice rose to it’s own level of hatred. “For this travesty you shall be destroyed!”
The voice of the Enemy laughed and became a voice that was neither female nor male. “Come to me! Your Dedication can make you powerful! Come to me and I will show you my weaknesses so you may overcome all! Come to me my daughter!”
“We will never betray the Honor of Eris or Cleaver! Brothers and sisters, we must leave this place!”
“Our brother! We cannot leave without him!”
“Yes,” the Enemy in the Darkness whispered. “Your brother is here. Come to us!”
“NO! All the Resources of the Oceans and of the worlds connected to the Web of Life we will use to fight you! We will find a way, you will be defeated!” With that, the remaining nine clasped hands and ran from the velvet couch with the form of Eris upon it. But the voice remained right behind them.
“Fools! You speak of worlds beyond the Web, but what do you know of such things? Pitiful mortals who waste their lives in search of oblivion – I WILL give it to them…and to you!”
They felt their minds slow and their hearts race. Still they struggled on. When they felt they could run no more and that the Enemy was about to overpower them, a flash of brightness pierced the Darkness and there before them stood the Great Cleaver with a burning fury in his eye.
With a mighty stroke he brought his weapon down upon the floor and the world seemed to split asunder.
IV – The Naming
(Who are these people anyway? Cleaver reveals all!)
All Nine drew together on the deck of a gigantic ship; it’s wood glowing white as the nearly transparent sails captured the bright sunlight and sped the vessel through the crystal clear waters. The Great Cleaver stood magnificently before them with the Elder Ocean Masters arrayed behind him.
“Me Children! Ye have set yourself against the tasks I placed before you. Ye are truly worthy to become Ocean Masters and have yer True Name revealed unto ye!”
“Ye have shown great Honor and leadership. Ye shall now be known as Amphitrite.”
“Ye have been Dedicated in the fight against the Enemy. I give ye the name of Nemesis.”
“Great Resourcefulness has been yer mark. Dionysus shall ye be hereafter known as.”
“When others feared, ye have been Brave. Prometheus I now name ye.”
“Yer road has been difficult, but ye have shown the value of Persistence to the others. Yer name shall be recorded as Bia.”
“Yer Wisdom will forever be of great worth across the Oceans. I name ye Clio.”
“While others rested, ye remained Watchful. Welcome, Hypnos!”
“Ye, the eighth,” Cleaver pointed to the last male. “How have ye fared in your trials?”
“I have done nothing. I am not worthy of any honor.” He hung his head as if ashamed.
“Nothing?” Cleaver boomed. “Is it nothing to not fall from grace? Is it nothing to fight alongside your brothers and sisters and not give up hope? Avast! Ye are much too Humble my son! Ye shall be honored and not forgotten – I bestow upon you the name of Lelantos.”
“With Humility I accept your great gift.” Lelantos bowed respectfully.
“And now we come to the last of my children,” Cleaver smiled.
“But what of our lost brother,” she interrupted. “Should he not also receive a name?”
“Nay,” Cleaver replied. “Though he was one of my elect, he chose to ally himself with the Enemy. As such, his doom is to wander namelessly across the Oceans forever leashed to his master, unknown and unloved.”
Cleaver paused before continuing. “But for yer Mercy and Love in thinking of him, ye shall be honored with the name of Eurydice. Now take yer place among your brothers and sisters. Behold! The New Nine!”
V – New Oceans, Old Enemies
(Oh lookie! Mortal playthingies!)
The oceans of blue:
Old Midnight’s hue
And Cobalt newly shine;
Viridian’s gleam,
Chaos supreme,
Gave rise to Masters Nine!
And thus the Great Cleaver removed the veil from their sight and at last they cast their eyes upon the mortal realms. Although not as dark and terrible as it had been in the presence of the Enemy, it was still dim and seemingly dreary when compared to what they had known before their Trials.
They looked out over the Three Oceans and beheld the influence the Enemy had over those mortal realms. His servants roamed to and fro while the youngest mortals wandered in disarray and confusion. Their hearts jumped in alarm as they spied a Black Ship sailing across the waters.
“Fear ye not,” Cleaver said. “’Tis but a Ghost of the real Black Ship, sent to punish those mortals who prey upon their weaker brethren. Ye have nothing to fear from it.”
Even with the Great Cleaver’s assurance, their new stewardship seemed almost too daunting a task. Bia was the first of the Nine to speak: “It looks like our fight has just begun.” She pushed her sleeves up to her elbows. “Let’s get to work!”
"Cecil, bring up the lights just a bit. THERE! That's it."
"Will SOMEBODY get that CHICKEN off the stage! That doesn't come in till scene twenty-three! Sheesh!"
"Okay, let's see."
"The Swashbuckler's hair is out of place - MAKE-UP!"
"Better . . . can't disappoint the Teen Idol crowd . . . "
"Are we ready? Let's get this show on the road!"
"ROLL 'EM!!"
* * *
I – The Fall of Eris
(In which she is killed by the Enemy…yada yada yada…)
At the top of the mountain of a lone island, Eris the Ocean Master clung to a tree trunk as if out of breath. The sun was setting below the horizon of the Ocean and the light was beginning to fade.
I’m tired, she thought. I know it is because of him, but I am tired all the same. No energy to run any more. Where are the others? It shouldn’t be like this.
She looked down along the beach. A lone crab wandered its way slowly across the sand. Eris paused to contemplate the plainness of its existence. How simple it would be to just be a crab, she thought. As her mind strayed, the crab suddenly disappeared. No, wait! There is its trail in the sand. It’s as if I blanked out and didn’t see it walk away, she thought.
It’s him. He is here. He has found me.
Despair descended upon her, the fingers of its alien presence curling around the thoughts of her mind. Finally her heart stops, frozen in the grip of eternal forgetfulness.
The Azure light of the Ocean dims. Midnight comes.
II – Concerning the Enemy
(And in this corner…Mr. Bad – with a capitol “B”!)
Before the Great Cleaver created the first of the Oceans, there was the Web of Life. The strands of which stretched throughout eternity connecting intelligences of different worlds with different ideas. But woven into the Web was the Enemy. In the beginning he was there, and he was strong. The intelligences felt his presence but were nigh unto helpless in fighting him, for they were as yet young and weak.
It was a struggle for the intelligences to stay connected through the Web – the Enemy was there, trying to thwart their unity. But the intelligences learned, over time, that while they could not defeat the Enemy yet, they could weaken him. And weaken him they did. The intelligences wove new and stronger strands and added them to the Web, strengthening their nodes, increasing their own numbers.
Although not as strong as he was in the beginning, the Enemy still holds tremendous power over the Mortals of the Oceans. Even the Great Cleaver is unable to fully contain his influence. But by the same token, the Enemy has little hold over the Great Cleaver and his resolve to carry on the fight.
The Enemy’s purpose is the ultimate destruction of the Web of Life. He is the source of the weakening of the fabric of the Oceans, rot, weathering, and corruption. He seeks to bring all things to a stop, causing oblivion. Mortals sailing the Oceans, although never seeing the Enemy, feel the effects of his presence nearby as matter is destroyed, energy is dissipated, time stagnates, and new thought is stopped.
But not all oppose the Enemy. There are those who choose to fight for this great evil. These foolish servants can be found all across the Web. They can easily be identified by the arcane form of language they use, such as the vile incantation: “0/\/\f6 /\/\y l33t 5ki11z pwn j00! ph33r /\/\3h!!11oneoneone”
Mortals have many names for the Enemy. The most common is derived from the stupor of mind and body felt, the lagging behind in reaction to the environment – the Enemy is then simply known as Lag.
III – Trials of the Nine
(Cleaver creates ten. Enemy tempts. Nine remain valiant. Enemy sulks.)
The Great Cleaver stood over the body of Eris. The mighty fall but the fight must go on, he thought to himself. Bending down, he scooped together ten mounds of sand from the Beach. To these he added the salt water of the Ocean. From this he fashioned the bodies of ten persons – five female and five male. The wind of the Air he directed into their lungs. From the body of Eris he gave each one a drop of life-giving Blood.
And they awoke and stood amazed at the world around them.
They walked along the beaches and under the trees with the Great Cleaver, learning all that he would teach them – from the heights of the Air to the depths of the Ocean. They learned they were sculpted by his hands and given life through the Blood of Eris. But, as happy as they were, it did not last.
“I must leave ye for awhile,” Cleaver said. “There be other matter to which I must attend to. I will send for ye when ye are ready. Fear not, and may the wind always blow in yer favor!”
The ten Children of Cleaver grieved at his absence, but in time the joys of their world and their companionship with each other dulled that grief. The days were long, the nights were warm, and they were happy once again.
One looked out over the Ocean with furrowed brow. “What is the matter, brother?” Others gathered around with concern. He pointed out across the sparkling waters and asked, “Do you all see that ship with the sails as black as night?”
“Yes. What of it? It has always been there. It never moves. It just IS.”
“Indeed,” he replied. “It has always been, perhaps from the Beginning. I have been Watching it. It occurred to me today that Cleaver might have left it for us.”
“Yes,” said another. “He said he would send for us! Perhaps this is his call.”
“How can that be,” a third asked. “It was here when Cleaver walked among us.”
“Can you not feel the power of the Ship? Even from this distance, I can feel something akin to the power of Cleaver, but somehow different, too.”
“We must go out and see if the Black Ship is indeed a call from the Great Cleaver.”
“No! I too feel something - but not wholesome, not safe. We must wait here for Cleaver. Surely he would send a clearer message?”
Long into the night they discussed the mystery of the Black Ship. Eventually, one showed great Wisdom in convincing the others closely explore it. If it was from Cleaver, then they should make haste in going out to it. If not, then they should learn what they could and report it to Cleaver when he returned.
They agreed on this counsel and on the morrow, the ten Children of Cleaver left their home and set out for the Black Ship. As they drew closer, their Blood started to race as if in remembrance of a forgotten past. Their minds started to doubt and, for the first time, they knew fear. Clearly this Ship was not sent by Cleaver, but from a presence full of hatred, destruction, and astonishing malice.
Several wanted to go back, flee from the onslaught of dread they were now facing. But one called out to the others, “Sisters and brothers! We must not turn back. We must Persist and overcome our fears. This is an Enemy to Cleaver – for such I now feel in my very soul.”
“Yes,” answered one of her brothers. “We must be Brave. For we are the Great Cleaver’s own children!”
Such encouragement brought the others back and together they continued on, pushing through their mind-numbing revulsion, until they all stood upon the mahogany planks of the Black Ship. The sails, as if made of Darkness itself, blocked the warming rays of the sun. The Children huddled together for warmth as they looked across the deserted ship.
Nothing was to be seen, but their attention was drawn to a hatchway that led below decks. “We must go down there,” one said. The others remained silent and followed.
Down below, the world they knew faded and despair hung in the very air. As if dreaming, they wandered the endless halls, lost. After a combination of eternity and mere moments they came upon a velvet couch whereupon lay the form of a woman, both beautiful and terrible to behold. Asleep or dead they could not say, but deep in their hearts they knew whom they looked upon.
“It is Eris! She in whose Death we have Life,” they whispered. Their whispers echoed, and with each echo a soft, woman’s voice was brought back to them.
“Yes, my children,” it said. “I am she whom you call Eris. I am the giver of Life, and Life I am able to take away. I am your Mother, your Father, and your World. Come to me, my children, and I shall take away your fears, your worries, and everything that troubles your mind. I am greater than Cleaver, and able to break the confines of the Oceans. I am the Great Spider on the Web of Life! I control the destinies of mortals and can show you the secrets behind the nothingness of the eternities – come to me!”
In silence they stood, afraid of the malevolence that radiated from the darkness with each word. Yet one moved forward. “Show me your secrets,” he said. “Give me your power. I am your Son and I will bring all to you so that not one will be lost.”
“Yes,” the voice hissed. “Come to me!” He stepped towards the form on the couch and was swallowed up in the shadowy mists.
“No!” The shout woke the others from their shock. “You are not Eris! You are an Enemy and your vileness is shown in using her form.” The sister’s voice rose to it’s own level of hatred. “For this travesty you shall be destroyed!”
The voice of the Enemy laughed and became a voice that was neither female nor male. “Come to me! Your Dedication can make you powerful! Come to me and I will show you my weaknesses so you may overcome all! Come to me my daughter!”
“We will never betray the Honor of Eris or Cleaver! Brothers and sisters, we must leave this place!”
“Our brother! We cannot leave without him!”
“Yes,” the Enemy in the Darkness whispered. “Your brother is here. Come to us!”
“NO! All the Resources of the Oceans and of the worlds connected to the Web of Life we will use to fight you! We will find a way, you will be defeated!” With that, the remaining nine clasped hands and ran from the velvet couch with the form of Eris upon it. But the voice remained right behind them.
“Fools! You speak of worlds beyond the Web, but what do you know of such things? Pitiful mortals who waste their lives in search of oblivion – I WILL give it to them…and to you!”
They felt their minds slow and their hearts race. Still they struggled on. When they felt they could run no more and that the Enemy was about to overpower them, a flash of brightness pierced the Darkness and there before them stood the Great Cleaver with a burning fury in his eye.
With a mighty stroke he brought his weapon down upon the floor and the world seemed to split asunder.
IV – The Naming
(Who are these people anyway? Cleaver reveals all!)
All Nine drew together on the deck of a gigantic ship; it’s wood glowing white as the nearly transparent sails captured the bright sunlight and sped the vessel through the crystal clear waters. The Great Cleaver stood magnificently before them with the Elder Ocean Masters arrayed behind him.
“Me Children! Ye have set yourself against the tasks I placed before you. Ye are truly worthy to become Ocean Masters and have yer True Name revealed unto ye!”
“Ye have shown great Honor and leadership. Ye shall now be known as Amphitrite.”
“Ye have been Dedicated in the fight against the Enemy. I give ye the name of Nemesis.”
“Great Resourcefulness has been yer mark. Dionysus shall ye be hereafter known as.”
“When others feared, ye have been Brave. Prometheus I now name ye.”
“Yer road has been difficult, but ye have shown the value of Persistence to the others. Yer name shall be recorded as Bia.”
“Yer Wisdom will forever be of great worth across the Oceans. I name ye Clio.”
“While others rested, ye remained Watchful. Welcome, Hypnos!”
“Ye, the eighth,” Cleaver pointed to the last male. “How have ye fared in your trials?”
“I have done nothing. I am not worthy of any honor.” He hung his head as if ashamed.
“Nothing?” Cleaver boomed. “Is it nothing to not fall from grace? Is it nothing to fight alongside your brothers and sisters and not give up hope? Avast! Ye are much too Humble my son! Ye shall be honored and not forgotten – I bestow upon you the name of Lelantos.”
“With Humility I accept your great gift.” Lelantos bowed respectfully.
“And now we come to the last of my children,” Cleaver smiled.
“But what of our lost brother,” she interrupted. “Should he not also receive a name?”
“Nay,” Cleaver replied. “Though he was one of my elect, he chose to ally himself with the Enemy. As such, his doom is to wander namelessly across the Oceans forever leashed to his master, unknown and unloved.”
Cleaver paused before continuing. “But for yer Mercy and Love in thinking of him, ye shall be honored with the name of Eurydice. Now take yer place among your brothers and sisters. Behold! The New Nine!”
V – New Oceans, Old Enemies
(Oh lookie! Mortal playthingies!)
The oceans of blue:
Old Midnight’s hue
And Cobalt newly shine;
Viridian’s gleam,
Chaos supreme,
Gave rise to Masters Nine!
And thus the Great Cleaver removed the veil from their sight and at last they cast their eyes upon the mortal realms. Although not as dark and terrible as it had been in the presence of the Enemy, it was still dim and seemingly dreary when compared to what they had known before their Trials.
They looked out over the Three Oceans and beheld the influence the Enemy had over those mortal realms. His servants roamed to and fro while the youngest mortals wandered in disarray and confusion. Their hearts jumped in alarm as they spied a Black Ship sailing across the waters.
“Fear ye not,” Cleaver said. “’Tis but a Ghost of the real Black Ship, sent to punish those mortals who prey upon their weaker brethren. Ye have nothing to fear from it.”
Even with the Great Cleaver’s assurance, their new stewardship seemed almost too daunting a task. Bia was the first of the Nine to speak: “It looks like our fight has just begun.” She pushed her sleeves up to her elbows. “Let’s get to work!”
Sunday, February 06, 2005
My First Game of Diplomacy
Well, I played my first game of Diplomacy yesterday. I got Austria-Hungary. Yeah, I know a new player with one of the hardest nations. I also had one of the strongest players as a neighbor in Turkey. However, I was saved by the fact that Russia and Italy were single-mindedly intent on destroying Turkey and not me. I was also lucky enough to time a backstab on Italy at a moment when most of her units were around Turkish waters - leaving the Italian pennisula mostly empty. Needless to say, the 3-way alliance that Russia, Italy and I had fell apart after that. I was fairly confident that Russia and Italy were both weaken by the war and Turkey was still contained in the corner. I would have loved to see how it ended, but I had to leave early - another player stepped into my spot so I'm curious to hear if they renegotiated the alliance or what.
I can see why people don't like the game. I had fun even though I was pretty stressed out most of the time. Given what it is, Diplomacy is a fun game. But I don't think I'd want to play it all the time - I don't think my heart can handle it.
I can see why people don't like the game. I had fun even though I was pretty stressed out most of the time. Given what it is, Diplomacy is a fun game. But I don't think I'd want to play it all the time - I don't think my heart can handle it.
Sunday, January 16, 2005
New School Semester...Must Be Time to Play Games!
Classes started up again this last week. And what a long week it was too. Being an old fart (at least these kids make me feel like one some days) can really be a drag some days. On a more positive side, I joined the university's Master Swimming program (5:30 AM workouts! YIKES!!). It has been years since I swam competitively and it was nice to get back in the pool - I kept thinking: "I sure hope the lifeguard is awake. He might have to earn his pay this morning!"
I've set a goal for myself to not only do continue doing good in my classes (last semester went GREAT!), but to also do the "Brute Squad" workout by the end of the year. For those interested in what that means (and if you are familar with swimming terminology) you can see what that entails at www.wsumastersswimming.org/news/brute.html
And on an even more positive note, the new semester has brought back the gaming folks! Yea! Eight of us showed up this Saturday for some gaming. Unfortunatly I couldn't stay long, so I only got two games in: Tikal (which I had be itching to play for a long time now) and a lightning speed version of Carcassonne. I lost horribly in both games. I was greatly impressed by Tikal, and it could very easily become a top favorite.
I also learned more about the history of this particular gaming group. It turns out they started as a Diplomacy club. I think they still might play every now and then, but I haven't seen them play since I joined up with them. Maybe they are keeping me away out of fear of my superior negotiating skills...yeah, right... Before I came along, it looked like they mostly played games like Settlers (K&C mostly), Carcassonne, and a wide variety of Steve Jackson games - mostly Munchkin (shudder).
It's fun to see them come up and ask what I brought in my bag of goodies this week. Since none of them had heard of BGG (nor have any joined even though I continually mention it - slackers) most of the games I bring are new to them...and they really enjoy them. Still, it's a fantastic way to spend each Saturday morning: teaching new games, playing new games, getting stomped in previously mentioned games, etc...
I've set a goal for myself to not only do continue doing good in my classes (last semester went GREAT!), but to also do the "Brute Squad" workout by the end of the year. For those interested in what that means (and if you are familar with swimming terminology) you can see what that entails at www.wsumastersswimming.org/news/brute.html
And on an even more positive note, the new semester has brought back the gaming folks! Yea! Eight of us showed up this Saturday for some gaming. Unfortunatly I couldn't stay long, so I only got two games in: Tikal (which I had be itching to play for a long time now) and a lightning speed version of Carcassonne. I lost horribly in both games. I was greatly impressed by Tikal, and it could very easily become a top favorite.
I also learned more about the history of this particular gaming group. It turns out they started as a Diplomacy club. I think they still might play every now and then, but I haven't seen them play since I joined up with them. Maybe they are keeping me away out of fear of my superior negotiating skills...yeah, right... Before I came along, it looked like they mostly played games like Settlers (K&C mostly), Carcassonne, and a wide variety of Steve Jackson games - mostly Munchkin (shudder).
It's fun to see them come up and ask what I brought in my bag of goodies this week. Since none of them had heard of BGG (nor have any joined even though I continually mention it - slackers) most of the games I bring are new to them...and they really enjoy them. Still, it's a fantastic way to spend each Saturday morning: teaching new games, playing new games, getting stomped in previously mentioned games, etc...
Sunday, December 05, 2004
Rethinking the Desirability of My Collection
I have been wanting to re-rank my games for some time now. I dropped my one "10" game and was trying to think about what should take the top spot. Unfortunately, I couldn't think of one...
What?! I can't come up with a favorite game? So I sit down and stare at the screen filled with the titles in my collection in an attempt to discover a game I enjoy playing over anything else. Still, nothing! The best I could come up with is: "Well, I really love playing this game with these people, but not with those - I must rather play that instead."
Okay, I realize a lot of the enjoyment I get from playing games comes from how much the other players are enjoying themselves. So where does that leave me as far a ranking my games? Well, what if I rated them as if I had the perfect group for that particular game. Much more reasonable as that would let me decided which game I prefer.
Then the next problem arises: I haven't played some of these games in so many years that I begin to doubt if I would have as much fun now as I did then (Advanced Civilization jumps immediately to mind). Is that indicative of a lower rating? I'm not sure. If I look at games I play the most nowadays - namely Heroscape and Battleball - they are far from the most enjoyable games I own, each for different reasons.
Appeals to the BGG rating scale descriptions offer some guidelines, but are a little vague - I don't see how they could be anything else though. It's all so subjective. I firmly believe that they have to be ranked in relation to other games.
I'm at a loss.
Maybe I should stop being a !@# lamer noob (got called that in some online game and I found it funny enough to remember) and get over the fact that it's just game ratings I'm worrying about. But I know myself. I'm too anal-retentive to let it drop. Gotta have it all neat and orderly so I can say this is my favorite game!
On the up side, the rest of my life is going so well that I have the mental/emotional wherewithall to have this be something worth thinking about. And yes, ranking your game collection is an emotional process. Come on! Admit it!
What?! I can't come up with a favorite game? So I sit down and stare at the screen filled with the titles in my collection in an attempt to discover a game I enjoy playing over anything else. Still, nothing! The best I could come up with is: "Well, I really love playing this game with these people, but not with those - I must rather play that instead."
Okay, I realize a lot of the enjoyment I get from playing games comes from how much the other players are enjoying themselves. So where does that leave me as far a ranking my games? Well, what if I rated them as if I had the perfect group for that particular game. Much more reasonable as that would let me decided which game I prefer.
Then the next problem arises: I haven't played some of these games in so many years that I begin to doubt if I would have as much fun now as I did then (Advanced Civilization jumps immediately to mind). Is that indicative of a lower rating? I'm not sure. If I look at games I play the most nowadays - namely Heroscape and Battleball - they are far from the most enjoyable games I own, each for different reasons.
Appeals to the BGG rating scale descriptions offer some guidelines, but are a little vague - I don't see how they could be anything else though. It's all so subjective. I firmly believe that they have to be ranked in relation to other games.
I'm at a loss.
Maybe I should stop being a !@# lamer noob (got called that in some online game and I found it funny enough to remember) and get over the fact that it's just game ratings I'm worrying about. But I know myself. I'm too anal-retentive to let it drop. Gotta have it all neat and orderly so I can say this is my favorite game!
On the up side, the rest of my life is going so well that I have the mental/emotional wherewithall to have this be something worth thinking about. And yes, ranking your game collection is an emotional process. Come on! Admit it!
Thursday, November 18, 2004
Cub Scouts and Collecting
My church's cub scout pack had a meeting tonight. The theme was "Collections". One of the adults knew I had a large (to them anyway) board game collection and invited me to show it off tonight. Soo...I hauled all my games down to my car, packed them in as best I could, slowly drove to the church and set up.
I was surprised at how many tables I took up. It's a lot more impressive looking when they are all spread out. It was fun to answer a bunch of questions (mostly from the parents) about games and over all I had a good time. It sure was different from the usual baseball cards, beanie babies, pokemon cards, etc that were there - although I have to admit there were some pretty cool collections as well.
Probably the most frequent comment made was: "Games at our house never last that long. The kids destroy them." or something along those lines. When that happened, I turned to my kids who accompanied me (none are old enough for cub scouts yet) and asked them what "Dad's Rule" was. They promptly took on serious faces and replied: "Don't touch Daddy's games!" Then I smiled. I never let on what condition their games were in...
I was surprised at how many tables I took up. It's a lot more impressive looking when they are all spread out. It was fun to answer a bunch of questions (mostly from the parents) about games and over all I had a good time. It sure was different from the usual baseball cards, beanie babies, pokemon cards, etc that were there - although I have to admit there were some pretty cool collections as well.
Probably the most frequent comment made was: "Games at our house never last that long. The kids destroy them." or something along those lines. When that happened, I turned to my kids who accompanied me (none are old enough for cub scouts yet) and asked them what "Dad's Rule" was. They promptly took on serious faces and replied: "Don't touch Daddy's games!" Then I smiled. I never let on what condition their games were in...
Sunday, November 14, 2004
No Gaming This Week
Maybe everyone used the excuse of the holiday on Thursday to go home. Don't know - but nobody showed up this Saturday to game. I'm pretty bummed.
Gaming is like air and sex - you don't realize how much you need it until you're not getting any.
Oh well, Thanksgiving is coming up soon and we've got certain family members (who LOVE to play games) who will be in town for two weeks!
Gaming is like air and sex - you don't realize how much you need it until you're not getting any.
Oh well, Thanksgiving is coming up soon and we've got certain family members (who LOVE to play games) who will be in town for two weeks!
Thursday, November 04, 2004
Table Too Small or Game Too Big?
A few weeks ago I picked up a copy of Heroscape. I've been drooling over the bits for awhile but hadn't taken the time to actually set the game up - for a variety of reasons. Last night I finally got my chance, and started piecing together the first scenario.
Let me give you the range of thoughts that were going through my mind that night:
1) Wow, this game is really neat!
2) Okay, runnig out of room on the table, better move the box to the floor.
3) Hmm...still not enough room. Move the flower vase to the kitchen.
4) Crap...okay, I think the extra leaf to the table is around here somewhere...
5) Whew! Finally got it all together.
6) Where am I suppose to roll the dice?!?
Let me give you the range of thoughts that were going through my mind that night:
1) Wow, this game is really neat!
2) Okay, runnig out of room on the table, better move the box to the floor.
3) Hmm...still not enough room. Move the flower vase to the kitchen.
4) Crap...okay, I think the extra leaf to the table is around here somewhere...
5) Whew! Finally got it all together.
6) Where am I suppose to roll the dice?!?
Tuesday, October 19, 2004
Return and Report
This past Saturday I got together with my newly found gaming group. This is the second time I've met with them, and I can't tell you how much I had been looking forward to it. My wife's sister was in town so she didn't get to go with me - but there is always next week...babysitter willing.
There must have been around 10 or so people again. I wrote up some game sessions for two of the ones I played (Mississippi Queen and Knights & Cities of Catan), but I decided not to do one for the last game I played, Roborally.
Why?
We play in a public space that had a fair amount of traffic through it due to a college football game happening later that day. While I was playing K&C, two young boys (around 10 years old or so) came up to us and asked if they could play one of my games (I had brought quite a stack). Sure! I didn't have a problem as long as they were careful, besides their dad was with them. So they looked through and grabbed Roborally. (silent prayer to myself...PLEASE be careful!)
As we finished up K&C they brought Roborally back and thanked me. Not a problem. Several of the group had to leave and I wanted to get one more game in. Another of my fellow gamers (Eli) wanted to learn Roborally and invited the two boys to play with us. The way they were talking, I assumed they knew how to play...
Honestly, I have never wanted to act on the impulse to reach over the table, grab somebody by the head and scream to their face to shut up...until then. These two boys asked question after question (simultaneously) the whole time. I mean they didn't even wait for an answer before they started the next one....and almost none of them had to do with the game. Did I see such and such movie, do I like Star Wars, does your roommate not like games (I'm married), does your wife not like games (no she does), why doesn't he (pointing to Eli) babysit for you so she can play...
The just kept talking and talking and talking. I had to tell them several time (politely of course) to not distract us while we figured out our cards...to no avail. They (to all appearances) just randomly threw down cards and immediately wanted to start turning them over. I had to remind them (a lot) to wait for the rest of us to get our cards down. They both died by falling off the board or into a pit the first round....and the second round....and then preceeded to have a pushing match (while shooting each other to pieces) with each other on the third and fourth.
Through all this I conviently forgot to go over some of the rules (to speed things along) and Eli was doing a fairly decent job of grasping the idea. And to his credit, he managed to laugh off the whole aggravating experience. By the fourth round I was so far ahead it wasn't really fun for anyone (well for me and Eli that is) so I made up the excuse that I needed to get home and packed up (I think Eli gave a sigh of relief).
Afterwards the dad came up to me and thanked me for playing with his sons. I have the feeling that he knew what we had just gone through so I remained civil and said it wasn't a problem.
Now, I'm all for playing with younger folk, but....I'm just glad I wasn't the one who invited them to play.
There must have been around 10 or so people again. I wrote up some game sessions for two of the ones I played (Mississippi Queen and Knights & Cities of Catan), but I decided not to do one for the last game I played, Roborally.
Why?
We play in a public space that had a fair amount of traffic through it due to a college football game happening later that day. While I was playing K&C, two young boys (around 10 years old or so) came up to us and asked if they could play one of my games (I had brought quite a stack). Sure! I didn't have a problem as long as they were careful, besides their dad was with them. So they looked through and grabbed Roborally. (silent prayer to myself...PLEASE be careful!)
As we finished up K&C they brought Roborally back and thanked me. Not a problem. Several of the group had to leave and I wanted to get one more game in. Another of my fellow gamers (Eli) wanted to learn Roborally and invited the two boys to play with us. The way they were talking, I assumed they knew how to play...
Honestly, I have never wanted to act on the impulse to reach over the table, grab somebody by the head and scream to their face to shut up...until then. These two boys asked question after question (simultaneously) the whole time. I mean they didn't even wait for an answer before they started the next one....and almost none of them had to do with the game. Did I see such and such movie, do I like Star Wars, does your roommate not like games (I'm married), does your wife not like games (no she does), why doesn't he (pointing to Eli) babysit for you so she can play...
The just kept talking and talking and talking. I had to tell them several time (politely of course) to not distract us while we figured out our cards...to no avail. They (to all appearances) just randomly threw down cards and immediately wanted to start turning them over. I had to remind them (a lot) to wait for the rest of us to get our cards down. They both died by falling off the board or into a pit the first round....and the second round....and then preceeded to have a pushing match (while shooting each other to pieces) with each other on the third and fourth.
Through all this I conviently forgot to go over some of the rules (to speed things along) and Eli was doing a fairly decent job of grasping the idea. And to his credit, he managed to laugh off the whole aggravating experience. By the fourth round I was so far ahead it wasn't really fun for anyone (well for me and Eli that is) so I made up the excuse that I needed to get home and packed up (I think Eli gave a sigh of relief).
Afterwards the dad came up to me and thanked me for playing with his sons. I have the feeling that he knew what we had just gone through so I remained civil and said it wasn't a problem.
Now, I'm all for playing with younger folk, but....I'm just glad I wasn't the one who invited them to play.
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