Five Ways to Get Over an Awesome RPG

The best and worst feeling in the world is when you sit back in your seat after defeating the final boss in a game and watch the credits roll. You feel elated that you've surpassed all of the odds and have come out victorious, but at the same time, you feel regret for leaving such loved and familiar characters behind. I find that this latter feeling is more pronounced when I reach the end of an RPG than in any other game. Perhaps it's because of the 80+ hours that normally go into them, perhaps it could be that I just create a stronger connection with the characters in the game. Whatever the reason, when I finally come to the end of a difficult RPG, I always feel regret. Player One is currently going through this difficult time as she just completed Tales of the Abyss this past week, and in order to help her through this, I've complied a list of helpful ways to wade through your grief.

How to Grapple with Completion Grief 

1.) Play the Game Again
The best way to quickly get over your grief is to pick up the game and play it all over again. Most RPGs offer some kind of New Game + mode, where they allow the player to bring over a select arrangement of things from the previous file. This is a great way to remember what happened 40+ hours earlier in the game, and you'd be surprised with how much foreshadowing you catch the second time through. Not only that, but it's great to see how far the characters have progressed throughout the progress of the game. If you're like me, you'll inevitably get tired of the game about halfway through your new file. It's not that you don't love the game anymore, but at that point you've reached the material that you know well, and that new game on your shelf starts looking really attractive. Don't worry about putting the game down at this point, your saved game will still be there for you when you (inevitably) pick it up again.

2.) Watch the Anime Adaptation of it.
Let's be honest, most JRPGs have an anime version of them. Granted, not all of them are stupendous (Tales of Symphonia was a train wreck from start to finish), but they dull the ache of never seeing the characters interact again. Besides, it's always interesting to see the difference between your interpretations of the game's events and the writer's interpretations of the game's events. Sometimes in the anime character relationships are more concrete, or entire segments that you thought were extremely important were skipped. In short, if you watch a bad anime adaptation, shouting at it is the best way to reduce pent-up stress and despair. If you watch a good anime adaptation, then it's nothing short of magical to watch your beloved game brought to life again before your very eyes.

3.) Make Your Friends Obsessed with the Game
Oh man, this is definitely one of my favorite methods. Feeling guilty that you want to play a game over again that you just beat? Show it to a friend of yours that you know will like it and convince them to play it. Chances are, they will become so hooked that they won't mind you sitting in on their gaming sessions and vicariously relieve the experience of the game through them. Believe me when I say that there's nothing quite like seeing someone else experiencing that one character's death, or that other character's dramatic past finally being revealed. It definitely gives the game a new depth that you would have never experienced just playing it by yourself.

4.) Try to Get Hooked on Another RPG
Convinced you'll never find anything better than the game you beat? Well, that may be so, but there's no harm in trying to find something in the gaming world that will surpass it. I mean, I thought that Tales of Symphonia was the RPG to end all RPGs... But then I got my hands on Final Fantasy VII and Tales of the Abyss, and now Persona 3. Playing different games will definitely open your eyes up to the endless possibilities that this genre offers, and don't discount the worth of a game until you've tried it (I mean, unless it looks horrible and you know you're going to be slamming your head against the wall within the first thirty seconds of playing it.)

5.) Mourn Your Loss by Writing a Sad Poem in Your Journal and Move On
...At least for a couple of years. Then, come back and find the game on your shelf, put it in, and experience the magic all over again. After you beat it again, repeat steps 1 through 5 as much as necessary.

So do you guys have any methods for getting over an awesome game? I'd love to hear them! (Especially because I'm dangerously close to beating Persona 3, and I'm not sure how I'm going to be able to deal with it, even with these handy steps.)

How To Successfully Torment Others Without Spoiling the Game They're Playing

Hello, Sweetie...


A couple of months ago, Player 2 and I decided it would be a good idea to trade RPGs. We both chose a game that we truly loved and exchanged, with each of us playing the other's favorite. Now, those of you who have been in a similar situation know the general feeling of giddiness that accompanies watching a fantastic storyline that you know very well  unravel for someone else for the first time. This probably stems from a vicarious desire to discover the game anew and to recapture that initial wonder you held for that game, fulfilled through the fresh eyes of a friend, but I digress. The downside to these situations is the difficulty most find in not spoiling the game unintentionally. Yes, most people are able to avoid spewing spoilers uncontrollably during every loading screen but what I'm talking about is more along the lines of body language and expression.  You'd be surprised what a tiny cringe or a set jaw during a character introduction can reveal about the storyline. Therefore, in order to avoid these missteps, I have turned to fine art of teaser vs. spoiler into something of a game. With some well placed application of just these two techniques, you  can amp up the anticipation factor while simultaneously drawing the attention away from anything that could seriously ruin the plotline. Not to mention, it's tons of fun!

Method 1: The Cryptic Smile

This method is a particular favorite of mine, simply because it has so many variations. There inevitably comes a time when the person playing the game will make a comment or a prediction about the storyline. Luckily, the Cryptic Smile is versatile enough that it can be used whether they're right or wrong while keeping them completely in the dark. It can range from a slight upturn of one corner of the mouth (this, combined with a vague shrug, is a favorite of Player 2) to a full on smirk. Personally, I find the full grin too revealing (and kind of creepy to be honest). Instead, I prefer a combination of faintly amused and something just this side of smug. While it could mean that they hit the nail right on the head and I'm smiling at their perceptiveness, it could also be interpreted as, "Ha, that's cute. Too bad it's completely off target." It's a surefire way too keep them guessing.

Method 2: The Sigh

Yep, that's right, even breathing correctly can carry loads of meaning. This method, especially when combined with a small hum, is highly ambiguous and can lead to all sorts of shenanigans.  If this is done when a character essential to the storyline is introduced, this can clue the player in to the significance of that person. Usually, this is interpreted as the character either cringing misfortune on others or having misfortune befall them later on in the game, but it can also be a sign of exasperation, amusement, or even admiration (Oh, Jade... *sigh*) by them. If you really want to frustrate your friends, though, I suggest trying this when something completely insignificant happens. Heck, try it on a loading screen! If this is done correctly, the player will become extremely confused and that's always fun to watch.

So, do you guys have a favorite method of torture? Perhaps you prefer a poker face, instead? Let me know!

Since When Have Teasers Been Such Teases!?

One of the best (and most painful) moments when waiting for a new game to be released is when the company finally publishes the trailer. There is nothing quite like clicking on that link and witnessing with baited breath what could be your next favorite game unveil on your computer screen. When game trailers are done right, they are stupendous. In fact, I (Player Two) often have difficulty watching them without tearing my hair out in anticipation. Usually thoughts run through my head like "I can't believe that they're bringing that character back! That's so awesome!" or "Why is the released date nine months from now!" or "Where is my favorite character and why isn't she appearing in this trailer? Are they going to pull something like last game, or is she just not going to make an appearance? They can't be that cruel to us, can they? Can they?!" ...Well, you get the idea. Today Player One and I are going to share with you some of our favorite trailers of games that we just can't wait to get our hands on.

When "I can't wait" is a total understatement...

Bioshock Infinite

I'll admit that the original Bioshock continues to scare the living daylights out of me (Player Two) to this very day, mostly because it combines everything I'm afraid of (the dark, first person shooters, the ocean...), but I still found it to be an incredibly gripping game. Now that they've finally pulled the series out of the ocean, I might just be able to finish this game without hyperventilating. I think one of the best things about this trailer is how action-packed it is, while at the same time subtly hinting at the main plot of the game. I mean, who is that women? Why does she have roses? Is she the love interest or another one of the crazies? I mean, you just can't tell in this series. But after watching this trailer, I'm definitely willing to fork over my precious cash to get my hands on a copy of this game.

Tales of Xillia

Despite being completely in Japanese, this game looks very promising (I only understand some of it but, seeing as I only managed a C in Japanese last semester, it can’t really be helped…). The graphics are beautiful, as is to be expected with a next gen “Tales of” game, and the characters are as enigmatic as always. The shots of the combat gameplay hint that the game will follow along with the tradition of a free motion fighting system. Rather than a sword, however, it seems the main character will be using mainly martial arts based attacks, which I find really intriguing. This is definitely a game to watch out for when it’s released stateside. 

Uncharted 3: Drake's Deception

Okay guys, let me jut get this out there: the Uncharted series is one of my (Player Two's) favorites. Not only is it an over-the-shoulder shooter, but I love climbing/jumping/leaping through ridiculous obstacles, getting the girl, losing the girl, trying to win the girl back, fighting ridiculous Nazi zombie-mutant things, Indiana Jones-esque archaeology, etc. Naturally, when I saw the trailer for Uncharted 3, I was beside myself. Not only does it leave the viewer begging for more at the end, but the graphics are drop-dead gorgeous. This series, exclusively on the PS3, is probably the poster child of how graphics have been improving over the years, with each installment having drastically improved graphics over its predecessor. There are so many questions brought up by this trailer, and I can't wait until it is released, and I can see them all answered. (Of course, as Player One can probably guess, my biggest concern is about Elena's appearance...but you know, I can't help being consistant.)

Dead Island

There really isn’t that much to say here. This gorgeous trailer truly speaks for itself. Never before have I seen a video game trailer appeal to the audience with such emotion. It’s pretty obvious that this isn’t going to be your run of the mill zombie shooter. In the past, most games of this type have focused on the gore factor and combat aspects of the game to carry them through. This is the first time that this genre is being looked at with the emotional turmoil of a post apocalyptic situation in mind. I don’t know about you guys, but this amps up the appeal of this game tenfold for me. 

Batman: Arkham City

I (Player Two), as many of my friends know, am a huge Batman fan. When Arkham Asylum was released it was the only game I would play for a good month, and I consistently spend my money on (what else) Batman comic books. So it's not too much of a surprise that I'm incredibly excited for this game; this trailer is exactly what I needed to have all my doubts erased. The voice acting continues to be top notch, it looks like they've worked some of the kinks out of the gameplay, the graphics have definitely improved, and I love the fact that they've got a larger cast of characters coming back. Doctor Hugo Strange, Two-Face, Harley Quinn, Catwoman, The Joker... It really just doesn't get much better than that, and I'm sure that there are plenty more surprises to come.

The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim

Yep, that’s right. Did you guys really think you were going to escape without one of my Elder Scrolls rants? So, as far as gameplay trailers are concerned, I think this one gives the rest a run for their money. While the cinematic trailer released earlier this year was impressive, I think we were all hoping for a little bit more of a peek at the actual world of Skyrim. Luckily for us, Bethesda soon delivered. From the world to its inhabitants, this game looks amazing. Not to mention, the idea of absorbing a dragon’s soul after defeating it is pretty mind blowing. When Oblivion came out, I was stunned at its beauty. Skyrim, however, seems to have far surpassed its predecessors. Let’s hope that the gameplay itself lives up the legacy of the Elder Scrolls.

I'd Like a Side of Nostalgia, Please

Fine Vintage

Past gen games that have withstood the test of time.

With so many amazing titles released in the past five years, gamers have had their hands full trying to play the best of the best. It's easy to get caught up in the amazing graphics of the current generation consoles and  be enamored with thoughts of what is yet to come, but sometimes it's important to look back through the past of gaming and play some oldies but goodies. You don't need amazing graphics to tell a good story, and the games that I list below, despite their obsolete graphics, put many present day games to shame with their amazing storytelling and brilliant gameplay.

Paper Mario (2001)

This was my very first RPG at the tender age of eight, and let me tell you, it still remains one of my favorites to this very day. I remember quite clearly renting Paper Mario from Blockbuster almost every weekend when I was a child; it got to the point where I knew the game so well that I was able to beat four bosses in one day. Like many of the games on this list, I was only able to fully appreciate this game when I pursued it two years ago. Unlike my eight-year-old self, at sixteen I was able to conceive how brilliant this game really was. Not only was it incredibly addicting, but it had approachable gameplay that a both a novice and an expert gamer could appreciate. Paper Mario stands out from other Mario games of the generation (though perhaps not as much as Super Mario 64, which was one of the most defining games of the era) as it took a bold step forward in narration and gameplay that the series is still trying to emulate. Unfortunately, the sequels to this brilliant game did not fair as well as the original, but with it's stylized graphics, Paper Mario is still incredibly pleasant to look at ten years after it's release.

Star Fox 64 (1997)

Who can forget the (only) good game in the Star Fox series? Without a save feature included in this game, I spent hours of my childhood attempting to defeat Andross, but always inevitably failing. Like Paper Mario, this game has only gotten better with age. In fact, I'm pretty sure most old games are like vintage wine: the longer you age it, the better it gets. Star Fox 64 is, to this date, the only Star Fox game besides Assault that I find enjoyable. Everything else (especially Adventures) is bland and uninspired, attempting to reclaim the glory that this first game received. Much to my chagrin, I still haven't defeated Andross, but maybe next time I get my hands on the controller, I'll get lucky.

Final Fantasy VII (1997)

Probably one of the most famous RPGs of all time, Final Fantasy VII is definitely deserving of most of the hype. Although I'm not a rabid fangirl that insists that this is the game to end all games or the game that will forever transcend time or that I am the only one who deserves to marry Cloud/Sephiroth/Reno/Zach/etc., I do think that it is a very good game in its own right. I freely admit that the graphics of FFVII are nothing impressive (in fact, sometimes they're almost painful to go back to after I play some of FFXIII), it's the storytelling that really sells this game. Not only is one of the most iconic video game villains featured predominantly in the game, but the plot itself is incredibly gripping. Oftentimes you find yourself still plugging away at a dungeon at three in the morning despite how tired you are just to see that next cutscene. The new installments in the series (XII and XIII especially) are all decent in their own right (except X and the travesty that is X-2; I just have no patience for Tidus, it seems), FFVII is definitely one of the most enduring games of all time.

The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (1998)

Now no list of old games would be complete without this gem. Arguably one of the best video games of all time, Ocarina of Time is definitely one of the most defining games ever created. With stupendous gameplay and a memorable plot, I find myself coming back to this game again and again. There is always something new to discover when I play through it, some small, insignificant detail that I overlooked the first time through. I mean, I still get emotional when I play through this game, and I have a love/hate relationship with the rolling credits. Despite how amazingly badass you feel when you finally defeat Gannon, there is always this stabbing regret that you beat the game and there isn't really anymore to see. (Which I usually try to get over by hitting the new game button.) Ocarina of Time is definitely one of those games that never grows old, as seen by the numerous ports that have been made to the Gamecube, and now the new HD version being released on the 3DS.

So, what do you guys think? Are there some old games that you still consider to be your favorites even after all of this time? Be sure to let me know!

Are you a Zombie Slayer or a Ghost Photographer?

Pick your weapon...

While I do enjoy the unique thrill of a survival horror game, I'm also a huge fan of knocking a Zombie's head off with a baseball bat. There's no denying that these styles are radically different from one another. Survival horrors, like Fatal Frame, are geared more towards scaring the gamer using atmosphere and disturbing imagery, while games like Left 4 Dead are more about the adrenaline rush of killing off the hoard of zombies that is charging your group. Most gamers usually have a preference but, personally, I find both styles of gameplay equally appealing. If you're new to both of these types of games, though, I suggest you consider your options carefully before deciding to go out and buy one.

Playing a survival horror game is a lot like watching a scary movie. Often times, your options for self defense are extremely limited. Gamers usually feel helpless and trapped, making the experience that much more terrifying. Rather than pitting you against dozens of enemies and having you fight your way out, the game is very random in it's battles and you usually find yourself up against one very strong and very frightening enemy. This usually leads to players freaking themselves through their own anxiety rather than because of anything the game has thrown at them. Now, if you've read this and are now thinking to yourself, "That's really lame... Why can't you just blow it's head off with a 12 gauge!?" chances are, you'd be more satisfied playing a first person zombie shooter.

Left 4 Dead 2 is, quite honestly, one of my favorite games of all time. If Fatal Frame is like watching a horror flick, then this game is like a post apocalyptic epic. Don't get me wrong, I love good scary atmosphere as much as the next gamer, but there's nothing quite so satisfying as scrapping through the remains of civilization  with a handgun, a melee weapon, and a defibrillator just in case somebody dies... This game, like most of its kind, is all about pitting you against a swarm of enemies. It's not about mood and there's no psychological thrill. This game is pure adrenaline and the amount of ammo you manage to hoard. 

What do you guys think? Zombies, ghosts, all/none of the above? Let me know!

Gamer Crushes: Because Sometimes, the Gaming Community is Just One Big Mutual Admiration Society...

I like the way you play...

Hey guys, it's another Fun Friday with me writing alone. I know, I know, I miss Player 2 as well but she flies back in this weekend! That's right, folks, the dark days of enduring my ridiculous rants are almost at an end. Get excited!

This past week, I've found myself watching a lot of video game vlogs on Youtube. As is to be expected, this has led to me developing a few new gamer crushes. Gamer crushes are characterized by a deep admiration for another gamer based on the way they play video games. Much like "Man Crushes" or "Nerd Crushes," they are often platonic in nature and are rooted in idolization rather than in any romantic feelings. It is this phenomenon that leads certain gaming streams and podcasts to become wildly popular. However, it isn't as if just any gamer who streams his play time online will be an instant internet celebrity. It takes certain skills to be "crush worthy," at least, in my book. 

Confidence

First and foremost, it takes confidence, and a lot of it. Gamers, by nature, tend to be very private people, so streaming their gameplay live for an audience of what could be potentially hundreds is going to take backbone. Not to mention, this is the internet you're exposing yourself to. It isn't exactly known for handling aspiring bloggers with kid gloves. Trust me, it takes a certain fearlessness to navigate this troll dungeon. Now, as far as confidence goes, 4Player Podcast has it in spades. They have, fromd what I've seen, one of the largest followings for their type of media. Yet, they easily manage the large number of fans as if it's second nature to them, never allowing their live stream chat to get too ridiculous (they have some excellent (and slightly infamous) moderators) or their community fans get to out of hand (well, there was that one fanfiction...). They also tackle many different types of games and aren't afraid to leave their comfort zone when it comes to genre. Seriously, they're the only people I think I'll ever have so much fun watching play with an Eyepet. These guys constituted my first major gamer crush and, while it's mostly faded now, they are still one of my favorite live streams to watch.

A Good Sense of Humor 

Look, I'll say this a clearly as I can. If you're playing a game live for an audience and your voice is dry and monotonous, you never laugh or even make an attempt at a joke, or you sound like you aren't enjoying yourself, you're doing it wrong! I want to hear a some humorous commentary during a game of CoD, not something that sounds like my grandfather talking about World War 2. One of my slightly more recent infatuations has been a Machinima contributer by the name of SeaNanners. He mainly plays first person shooter style games but has, on occasion, played such games as Mincraft (which I guess could be considered a first person shooter if your some type of bow and arrow vigilante creeper hunter...). Now his humor doesn't overbearing or obnoxious, as does the humor of some aspiring vloggers. Rather, it's easygoing and natural, as it should be when it comes to gaming. Believe me, people can tell when you've rehearsed a joke over and over.

A Sense of Mutual Discovery

There is a definite difference between an instructional walkthrough and a gaming stream. Most people don't want to watch you play through a game for the umpteenth time with perfect skill and precision. The best type of gaming video, in my opinion, is one where the viewer gets to watch the gamer stumble through a new game for the first time. The best example I can think of is my most recent gamer crush, Davidr64. He's known more for his streaming of MMORPGs like WoW, but recently has been taking up more unfamiliar games and playing through them live. It is in these new games that I think this guy really shines. For instance, he has begun playing Oblivion for the very first time and posting the videos up on Youtube as well as streaming live on Justin.tv. At no point do his videos feel contrived or presumptuous and even viewers such as myself, who have played Oblivion to death, are kept amused by his sense of wonder as the game unravels for him at random. Nothing is for certain, but I have a feeling I'll be following his updates for awhile.

What do you guys think? Do you have any serious Gamer Crushes at the moment? Let me know!

CODE FENCER. REPEAT: CODE FENCER.

Where'd the Baby Come From?!

Personal fanon, and why it's awesome

Everyone knows that cannon is the events that happen in the game, but not everyone is familiar with the term fanon. Basically, fanon are events in the story that are not officially cannon, but to the person playing the game, they might as well be. Player One and I, as we've been playing through Persona 3 and Tales of the Abyss, have come up with the most ridiculous personal jokes and fanon story lines, it's kind of sickening (in an awesome way.) Today I'm going to give you a little glimpse of our personal fanon, and inform you why I think it's one of the best things that gamers can do with they play with friends.

"He's taken everything from me!"
With Player One and I, most of the chaos started with a simple joke. We were just beginning to play through Tales of the Abyss, and one of us commented on how every time Asch appears, he effectively takes Natalia and Luke away from Guy. Then, the other (I don't remember who) immediately cried "He's taken my bro, he's taken my woman... He's taken everything from me!" It all went downhill from there.

Since that fateful day, Victoria and I have been making jokes/hypotheses/comments about almost everything in the games we play. In fact, this "fanon", if you will, has become such a vital part of the game that I can never imagine playing Tales of the Abyss or Persona 3 without her.

The J Snap
I think perhaps the most important aspect of this fanon is that it just improves already awesome games. Through these admittedly ridiculous scenarios that we come up with, we get closer to the characters and to the story. Let me tell you, I've become so much more attached to Jade Curtiss from Tales of the Abyss since I started playing it with Victoria...And I've never hated Anise so much. If you're bored with a game, then this might just be the solution you need. Do you love a pair of bros in the game? Pretend they've adopted a child and come up with the most ridiculous situations that they put the tot through. You can devote literally hours of your time in keeping a joke alive, and sometimes that's just what you need when you're fighting your way through yet another pointless game.

Bro Tea every Sunday!
Not only do these jokes improve the quality of your gameplay, they also improve your friendship. Now, Player One and I were awesome friends before we started playing video games together, but now that we've developed perhaps one of the most ridiculous fanons in existence, we're definitely closer than ever. Is that awesome? You bet it is! Sharing something like this with a friend is one of the best experiences. It definitely makes you appreciate your time with them more, encourages you guys to hang out together, and, of course, increases your desire to play video games (which could be a bad thing if you have three tests the next day, but we'll not go into that now.)

So what do you guys do when you play games with your friends? Do you have your own personal jokes? Do you think your fanon is more ridiculous than ours? Definitely let us know!

No TV? No Game System? No Problem!

Why investing in a couple of good PC games is a good idea...


Smith college has closed for spring break, along with my dorm, leaving me staying in a friend's room while she is away in Boston for the week. Went into town for some excitement today and yesterday but, with so many people gone for vacation, it's a tad bit dead in good old Northampton. So, I'm completely alone, with only a few books and my computer to entertain myself. What's a gamer girl to do? After all, I can only read and surf the web for so long before I start missing my PS2. Luckily, I came prepared for such a predicament. PC games, while great in their own right, are excellent substitutes when you find yourself away from a T.V. and your beloved game systems. "Victoria," you ask uncertainly, "what games would I even bring with me?" Relax, I've got you covered.

A good variety is important when you're looking to stave off boredom. I recommended bringing along a couple of different dungeon crawlers. I personally made sure to pack my copies of Oblivion and Diablo 2 for those days when I just felt like some quest completion. Now, you all know how much I adore Oblivion but Diablo holds a special place in my heart as well. While a little old, this game is still tons of fun and it's classic style of adventure will keep you entertained for a long time. It also has a great online mutliplayer option for whenever I feel like playing with some of my friends from back home. Who says 2000 miles should keep you and your friends from dungeon crawling together?

Yep, thats right folks, Minecraft is good for more than just procrastination! I know, I know, I could hardly believe it myself. Actually, it's nice not having to feel guilty every time I start up this game. Usually, my enjoyment is tainted by a test or due date looming in the near future. Playing this game without any lingering anxiety is a real treat, I must confess. The free, sandbox style gameplay is also a refreshing reprieve for when mages and quests become a little bit stale. Maybe with all this extra free time, you can finally find that diamond you've been looking for?

Yes, believe it or not, I'm actually suggesting some computer chess. I love chess but, with all of my friends out of reach for the time being, I can't exactly sit down for a game against anyone. Fortunately, most computers (both PCs and Macs) come outfitted with Chess Titans. It's a good way to keep your mind sharp and thinking logically when you're on your own and out of a learning environment for long periods of time. Yes, my computer might be somewhat of a sore loser but it beats not playing at all.

What do you guys think? Have a particular favorite "rainy day" game? Let me know!

Love, thy name is The Elder Scrolls...

Get excited!

Okay guys, because our dear Player 2 is off to Ireland for this next week, I'll be covering both this and next week's Fun Friday post solo. "But what about Wednesday's post!" you exclaim in horror, "I can't live without Player 2's witticisms!" Gee, thanks a lot belligerent gamer, you make me feel so good about myself. Luckily for you folks, Player 2 was nice enough to write her next post in advance for me to post for everyone's enjoyment when Wednesday rolls around. So, chill. For now, though, I want to geek out about what is definitely one of my favorite game series, The Elder Scrolls.

My love for this series had it's humble beginnings in the third installment, Morrowind. Before I picked up this game, I had never really even heard about the Elder Scrolls. I happened to be at my local GameStop when I saw the game and thought, "Hey, why not? I need a new PC game anyway." That, ladies and gentlemen, is the day my gaming world was changed for ever. Those of you who have played a game in this series know how immediately addicting these games are. The Elder Scrolls games are unique in that there is no set timeline or story you must adhere to. While they do include very gripping main quest lines, the player is free to forge their own path in these massive worlds. From the character design (I personally like Bosmers) to the gameplay (The Thieve's Guild is where it's at!), everything about the games are up to the player. While some may feel lost and annoyed with a game that has no real direction, I find the freedom greatly refreshing. Nowadays, the graphics for Morrowind are slightly dated but I still enjoy the game as much as I did the first time I played.

Oh, Oblivion. I love this game, I really do. It has all the freedom of gameplay that Morrowind has, along with a much larger world and so many quests, it's ridiculous! Not to mention, the graphics are absolutely stunning. I was a little hesitant to pick up this game, I have to admit. I'd seen the screenshots and I was sure that, with as much time as they spent on the look of the game, they had probably skimped out on the storyline and gameplay. You guys know that I'll take a good game over beautiful graphics any day. Fortunately, Oblivion proved itself to be just as good, if not better, than it's predecessor. Let me tell you, while I generally recommend beginning with Morrowind if you want to get into the series, this game isn't a bad place to start.

Finally, what I've been anticipating for ages. Now that I realize that The Elder Scrolls is great with its sequels, you can imagine how excited I am for the fifth game in the series. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim was announced not to long ago and, as you can guess, I flipped out. The trailer is enigmatic but does hint at the beauty this game will no doubt display. The release date has been set for November 11th of this year and I am stoked beyond belief. I definitely recommended some preparation for those of you unfamiliar with this series. Go our and grab Morrowind or Oblivion and get yourself familiarized with an Elder Scrolls game. Then, come November, you can bask in Skyrim's glory along with the rest of us.

What do you guys think? Are you as excited as I am about Skyrim? Or is Morrowind or Oblivion your "one true" Elder Scrolls game? Let me know!

Just How Am I Going to Beat This Boss?

Since Player One and I have been devoting most of our gaming attention to RPGs recently, I thought that I would focus over my next few posts on some of the more ridiculous aspects of our gaming nights. Namely, how over-leveled our characters are, and the personal fanon that we have created in these games. Now, I know that we've mentioned some of these aspects in past posts, but I thought it would be enjoyable to go into these important(ish) gaming topics in a little more detail. So, without further ado...

Why Achieving God-Like Levels Isn't Always a Bad Thing

As many of you probably know, one of the most infuriating things about RPGs is being under-leveled. Not only is it extremely difficult to advance to the next area, but usually you've just played through an incredibly hard dungeon to get to the boss that you're stuck on, and your desire to trek back through all of the puzzles for the sake of fighting enemies is decidedly minimal. Usually being on-level is the easiest way to avoid this, since although you may still have difficulties with the boss, it will be possible for you to eventually surpass it and move on. I personally enjoy the other option: being over-leveled.

"Now Rachel, won't that just suck all the fun out of the game?" Well if you want to be extremely pessimistic then yes, it might. If you're playing the game for the sake of a challenge, being over-leveled will usually eliminate any episodes of tearing your hair out/throwing your controller/screaming at your television scream. Usually when I pursue an RPG, it's more for the fun gameplay and the involving storyline. Therefore, I don't usually mind when I can beat the snot out of the enemies in a dungeon in about thirty seconds. For me, that's one of the best feelings in the world. Not only does it mean that I'm surpassing the game's expectations of me, but more importantly, it also means that I can quickly work my way to the next plot point.

Becoming over-leveled is not as hard as you think. Typically, I'm not much of one for level grinding, and I tend to detest staying in one area of the game for too long for the sake of leveling up. I have found through the years if you just simply fight everything that comes at you (and I mean everything), you'll just naturally level up much faster than someone who skipped through battles because they were bored with them. Now, I know that fighting becomes tedious after a while (Final Fantasy VII's random battles come to mind), but usually when I go up against the boss and dispose of them without too much difficulty, it feels as though all of my work was validated.

If an RPG is done well, then you should constantly be challenged as you work through it, regardless of how over-leveled you become. For example, in Persona 3 FES, there are different levels that the player has to work through as the story progresses. Typically I'm pretty over-leveled when I finish the level (usually confirmed by several enemies being frightened of me when I take them on in battle.) Meanwhile, as I progress up the floors, the mini-bosses give me an incredible amount of difficulty despite my high level. In fact, I often am left to wonder how people do it when they're five levels below me, like they're supposed to be. Not only that, but whenever I move up floors, I usually get my ass handed to me several times by the exceptionally strong foes on that floor. It's these encounters that constantly keep me on my toes as I work my way through the game, and prevent me from becoming too lax in my leveling.

So where do you guys enjoy being in RPGs? Do you love a challenge or do you prefer just playing through a game for fun? Let me know!

The Sims: The Right and Wrong Ways to Play

Don't tease me about my hobbies. I don't tease you about playing the Sims...

...Unless you're doing it wrong. "But, Victoria!" you admonish, "How can there be a wrong way to play a video game?" Believe me, belligerent gamer, there is most definitely a wrong way, especially when it comes to a game like The Sims. This game isn't exactly known for being the healthiest game to play but, of course, most games aren't. Still, there's something in particular about this game that calls for some caution to be taken. Trust me, if you value your mental health and emotional stability, you will listen carefully. This is business of the serious variety.   

The Wrong Way

First things first. For the love of all that is sacred, do not make yourself or anyone you know personally. Trust me, it will just become weird. Making yourself as a sim just leads to a whole bunch of self esteem issues that really shouldn't be brought up when you're trying to have fun playing a video game. Not to mention, your friends might not appreciate the fact that you've created them in a virtual world and would rather spend time with them there than in real life. You have to admit, it's a little bit insulting. Creating a fantasy life for yourself hints that you might be unhappy with your own life. If that's the case, you're probably better off not playing The Sims but, instead, working on fixing that. I've seen many people who have had their lives eaten up by losing themselves in a virtual world rather than facing real life issues head on. By making yourself a sim, you will be skirting the very fine line between fun and socially damaging.

The Right Way

Alright, let's say that you've managed to avoid the dangers of becoming a recluse with The Sims. What now? Well, that's the beauty of this game! Your options are endless! You have an entire town to populate with a bunch of houses to fill. The great thing is that you can be original and create characters for your town or, if you're feeling uncreative, recreate characters from your favorite shows/video games/movies. Make it even more enjoyable by inviting a friend over to play with you. Player Two and I are quite proud of the little town we've created (trust me, it's ridiculous). The point is, you should remember that The Sims is a video game meant to be played for fun. It isn't a place for you to vent your anger or create a hormone driven world of melodrama. That, my dears, is what fanfiction is for.

What do you guys think? Do you have a particular way you like to play The Sims? Did you name your town Awesomeville? Let me know!

The Top Ten Ways to Quickly Lose Your Social Life

 Sometimes there are games that you pick up, and you just cannot put them down. It doesn't matter if you have midterms the next day, or work that needs to be done, all you can seem to think about is playing that game. Usually you think you can surpass these debilitating urges to game, but the truth of the matter is, this game has got you in its clutches, and you're helpless to resist. Believe me when I say that Player One and I understand your pain. Over the past few weeks, we've gotten ourselves hooked on some pretty outstanding games, and in honoring our lost gaming initiative, we've decided to compile our list of the top ten most addictive games.

Ten Games that Will (Perhaps Literally) Suck Away Your Soul

...in no particular order

1.) Harvest Moon

The hardcore gamer's Farmville, this game fulfills your primeval urge to water crops, feed animals, talk to townspeople, go to bed, and repeat. Although this might sound like the most boring game ever created, there is just something oddly compelling about creating and maintaining your own farm. I mean, do I like doing my chores daily? No. Do I enjoy doing my chores daily on Harvest Moon? Yes. Why is this? I have no idea, but it's an oddly compelling formula that works. If you've always harbored some yearning to be a farmer (or if you're descended from farmers, or if you've been to a farm) you should definitely give Harvest Moon a try.

2.) Minecraft


While we're on this agricultural kick, I think this game deserves a mention. Seriously, you guys, it should have been called Minecrack. You guys... seriously. This is what I find myself playing despite the fact that I have essays to write and Japanese tests breathing down my neck. There is just so much to this game that makes it so unique in its entertainment value. You can build an underwater home, a sky home, a war base, a farm; the possibilities are literally endless. I mean, think about it. You could build a casino, populate it with farm animals, proceed to blow all your hard earned diamonds in said casino, and then get blown up by a creeper. Minecraft equals, without a doubt, times of the sexy variety.

3.) Pokemon

If you were a kid growing up in the 90's and you didn't know what Pokemon was, you were probably living under a rock. I (Player Two) have been addicted to Pokemon ever since I was in first grade. It didn't matter that the only Pokemon I raised up was my starter and that I never actually fully beat the game, I was hooked. Countless hours were spent battling my way through the gyms, beating the snot out of Youngsters, and telling Joey that I didn't give a damn about his Rattata being in the top percentile of Rattata. The Pokemon series still remains addicting to this day. Whenever a new title comes out, you'll usually find me for the next month or so chilling in a corner, contently playing my DS.

4.) Okami


Who knew Japanese mythology could be so much fun? This game had me hooked for the longest time. It was only on my new game plus that I finally was able to put it down long enough to play something else. There really is no other game out there quite like Okami. From its unique battle system to its gorgeous (if a bit trippy) water colored graphics (not to mention the 100+ hours of gameplay), the sheer novelty of this game is enough to keep you entertained for a good six months or so. Yes, its a long game (and the battles can be a little tedious at times) but the hours of fun this game offers far outweighs its shortcomings.

5.) The Legend of Zelda

Okay guys, I (Player Two) love this series. All of the games combine excellent storytelling with great gameplay, and there's nothing quite like the thrill of axing down Ganon again and again and again. Like any series, there are a few duds (I'm looking at you, Four Swords), but overall these games always get me hooked. I never say no to playing Ocarina of Time, Twilight Princess had me hooked for a solid three weeks, and Majora's Mask is one of the most compelling games that I've played to date. No matter how many times you have to go rescue yet another incarnation of Zelda, this series never gets old, and I think that is one of it's most enduring qualities. There is always enough variation between the titles that it feels like a fresh experience every time you pick up the controller.

6.) Persona 3


Okay, anyone who has played this game knows that its powers of addiction are rivaled by few. The characters are easy to fall in love with and the plot has just enough twists to leave you guessing without losing you along the way. It's different from most other games and definitely has its quirks but, like most other Shin Megami Tensei games, the overall atmosphere created by this game had me hooked from the start. It's a weird combination of laid back and bad ass with just the right amount of humor thrown in. Despite the fact that even used versions of this game are still relatively expensive, I can assure you that it's well worth the price.

7.) Kingdom Hearts

Kingdom Hearts, like most games on this list, has a great storyline and amazing gameplay. Perhaps what is the most standout about this title is the unique combination of Disney characters, anime, and the Final Fantasy series. Before Kingdom Hearts came out, any serious gamer would laugh themselves silly over this seemingly ludicrous formula, but Kingdom Hearts makes it work. The second game in the series is by far the more addicting of the two, and once you start it, it's hard to put the controller down (well, except for those Little Mermaid segments, I think I could have done without those just fine.)

8.) Tales of the Abyss


Oh goodness, I adore this game. The characters are great (especially Jade... mmmmm (and Asch... ohohohohoho! (minus Anise... ew!))) and the storyline is every bit as addicting as the awesome gameplay. It's easy to quickly become invested in the conflicts and the Mystic Artes make you feel like an unrivaled BAMF. I suppose the fact that Player 2 and I have the most ridiculous fanon in the history of gaming helps in making this game doubly entertaining but even if you play alone, you're sure to have a hard time putting the game down for breaks (like for sleeping).

9.) Final Fantasy

The Final Fantasy series are some of the most famous RPGs, and for very good reason. Not only do they all have involving gameplay (even the earlier, turn-based games), but the story is always entertaining to play through. I think one of the best things about playing the Final Fantasy series is the characters. No matter what game you play, there will always be that one character that captures your attention, and forces you to play through all the way to the end, even if in some parts you do so kicking and screaming (I'm looking at you, Midgar.) Final Fantasy VII is definitely a standout in the series, and is the most enjoyable Final Fantasy game that I've played to date. Needless to say, all of the hype about it is certainly well-deserved, and if that won't convince you, just play the game for the climatic last battle. There is nothing quite like the feeling of finally beating Sephiroth.

10.) The Sims

Yeah, admit it. Deep down, you knew this was coming. Who could forget the borderline obsession induced by this game? It kind of makes you want to question humanity, doesn't it? Maybe it's like a high-tech, glorified version of paper dolls and gamers really haven't lost that part of themselves that likes to play pretend. Or maybe it's something much darker. Perhaps this game is the gamer's way of playing god, something I'm sure everyone in the world has desired from time to time. Either way, this game can be pretty dangerous if you go into it with the wrong mindset. Caveat lector.

Do you guys have a top ten list? Be sure to let us know!

To Do: Write Wednesday's Blog Post

I love lists. They are incredibly portable, convenient, and mostly help me concentrate on what I need to get done during the day. I have lists of books I need to read, homework to do, and TV to watch, but perhaps one of the most important lists I have is of my video games I need to play. Let's face it folks, sometimes it's hard to remember what games you have on your shelf that you haven't touched in ages. Billy Hatcher and the Giant Egg? Chibi Robo? I actually owned those at some point? If you're like me and tend to have a rather one-track mind when it comes to playing games (Persona 3, I'm looking at you), then keeping an effective "Games to Play" list is essential in keeping your progress on track.

How to Keep Track of Your Gaming

One of the easiest ways to start this process is to list all of the games you own. I know, I know, doing that is a pain in the ass, but I've found when you start to pay attention to the neglected corners of you gaming shelf, you find amazing games that you've forgotten about. In my case, I found my old copy of Banjo-Tooie, remembered how much I loved the game, and then embarked on a grand quest to find my Nintendo 64...But that's a story for another day. Alright, do you have your list? I'll share with you an excerpt of mine here:

1. Resident Evil (GCN)
2. Metal Gear Solid (PS)
3. Animal Crossing (GCN)
4. Batman: Arkham Asylum (PS3)
5. Sly 2: Band of Thieves (PS2)
6. Shadow the Hedgehog (PS2)
7. Okami (PS2)
8. Billy Hatcher and the Giant Egg (GCN)
9. Chibi Robo (GCN)
10. Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess (Wii)
11. Pokemon SoulSilver (DS)
12. Professor Layton and the Curious Village (DS)
13. Banjo-Tooie (N64)
14. Super Mario Sunshine (GCN)
15. Naruto: Clash of Ninja (GCN)

Did you finish your list? I'm sure that upon looking through it, you realized that there were many games on there that you don't play anymore/would rather you didn't own. Don't fear! Our next task in the journey of making our list is to par it down. Any games on there that you don't want your friends finding out about, cross them off (for me, that would have to be Billy Hatcher, Naruto, and Shadow). Cross off any games that you know you're not going to play again (Animal Crossing, Sly 2). And finally, to make yourself feel better, take off all of the games that you've completed. Once you're done with this process, your list should look nice and sleek, much like this:

1. Okami (PS2)
2. Pokemon SoulSilver (DS)
3. Professor Layton and the Curious Village (DS)
4. Banjo-Tooie (N64)
5. Super Mario Sunshine (GCN)

Now doesn't that seem a bit more manageable than that list you had beforehand? I'm sure there are several games on here that you forgot you hadn't beaten. For me, I still forget that I haven't actually completed Super Mario Sunshine, and sometimes I entirely forget that I have Okami lying around on my shelves. Gaming lists are how I keep track of my gaming history, and my gaming future, and I definitely recommend them to those of you who, like me, tend to be a bit scatterbrained about the little things.

Do you guys have any strategies to keep yourself on track when gaming? Let me know!