After beginning my psychology 101 course, I found out a few things about myself.
1) I do not connect with everyone
2) I find myself in a conversation with a select few classmates.
3) Most of them being of the opposite gender
4) I am starting to understand how Psy relates to the medical practice I'm heading towards.
Just a few keynotes I thought would be fun to share.
Saturday, July 16, 2011
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Re-examine a hedgehog
Just this past Monday, I started taking Psychology as a pre-requisite class towards my major being Massage Therapy. And it made me wonder, about the color grade concept. For the longest time I've wondered if Sonic the Hedgehog was intentionally made "blue". According to some studies, the color "blue" is stimulation, or free-spirit, always in motion.
Ever since I found myself interested in the medium of video games. Colors were always meant to express the development team's thoughts. What makes a hero? Or a villain? Since day one, the blue hedgehog was always non-stop, while a human (wearing a definitive red outfit, and boots) donning a menacing mustache and grin.
I may have found my subject for a final paper, although it may seem a bit off-beat going with a discussion towards a video game character's color concept. Maybe it might be worth trying, since I do have a lot to say about the topic.
Ever since I found myself interested in the medium of video games. Colors were always meant to express the development team's thoughts. What makes a hero? Or a villain? Since day one, the blue hedgehog was always non-stop, while a human (wearing a definitive red outfit, and boots) donning a menacing mustache and grin.
I may have found my subject for a final paper, although it may seem a bit off-beat going with a discussion towards a video game character's color concept. Maybe it might be worth trying, since I do have a lot to say about the topic.
Monday, February 28, 2011
Bayonetta Review
Review – Bayonetta
System(s) – PS3 / Xbox360
Produced by: Platinum Games / Hideki Kamiya
Rated – M (for mature)
Torn between two worlds: heaven & earth, angels & demons, limbo is not what it’s cracked up to be. This is where B, our heroine is placed: a world of wonder, history, and darkness. Being one of the “lost witches”, he vows to right the wrongs that have been made onto those in the past. Meanwhile facing enormous odds against those: from upon high, and below. Welcome to a tale, of magic, action, suspense, and mystery unlike any other.
Bayonetta’s tale is told through chapters “Verses”. And as your mission unfolds, you will find lost books that unveil the history of the torn worlds, including: enemies, and bosses encountered, and weaponry.
In-game money is composed of an item called “Halo’s”, the rings that are above the angels’ heads. Gather up enough, and drop by “The Gates of Hell”, and visit with the cheerful shop owner. At the “Gates of Hell”, items for health, weapons, and special moves can be purchased here. Another neat feature within B’s quest is the option of being able to compose mixtures of compounds. Items found within each chapter, can be fused to create health & magic items. Master these well, and you will find a diverse collection of goodies whenever you need them.
Each “Verse” unfolds B’s tale from start to finish, finding old friends, to meeting old enemies from days long ago. Character dialog is given a unique touch, from B’s “sassy” attitude, to Jeanne’s “angst”, and much more. Even the villains you come across have their own personality. From angels, to watchdogs, and a few beasts that dislike a pretty face wanting to make them eat dirt.
Bayonetta’s in-game soundtrack is an: exciting, diverse, energetic, and psychotic. B’s background tunes are just about everywhere, from jazz, rock, to electronica. Plus there are a few hidden Easter egg tracks that are waiting to be found. Depending on the situation surrounding both B & the player, the music will shift to a darker tone until a health item is used. Boss themes are composed of power, and strength, versus the lovely lady’s opposing attitude, which mixes well during boss fights. (Think of Jet Set Radio Future’s song playlist, which shifted during your escapades around town)
Controls within B’s adventure are simply setup, but can be changed whenever the player decides. On the plus side, the controls are timely pressed (for QTE events) which work seamlessly. Plus there is an alternative reaction, for moments such as torture attack, versus boss, and escaping obstacles. (1) Torture Attack = aka “pushing buttons” This mode is active once B has delivered enough damage towards enemies nearby, thus delivering the final blow (or crush, smash, or ripping a black hole to summon an entity). (2) Boss fight(s) – Player versus enemy, the classic finale to every stage. But in this game, some enemies make a comeback, depending on how well B delivers blows. Once a foe’s ass is kicked to bits, the finish is a lovely QTE that involves a descriptive finishing move that requires timed button presses to earn, and receive extra “halos”. (3) Obstacles are a classic platformers’ best friend, or worst enemy. In B’s case, it’s a mix of the two, consisting of monumental getaways (close to Indiana Jones). This mode happens rarely often, but once it’s active get ready to run!! (And watch out for baddies that make your getaway a headache, ignore them and keep going!)
Before we wrap us this review, I must give kudos to a friend of mine, Leigh Alexander. A writer that delivers: knowledge, wit, wisdom, and downright awesome. Leigh introduced me to the game Bayonetta, by way of her writing. Be sure to read some of her diverse works @
http://sexyvideogameland.blogspot.com/
http://www.gamepro.com/article/features/213466/bayonetta-empowering-or-exploitative/
(This review is a must read, it may open your mind on how to take a game, not so seriously)
System(s) – PS3 / Xbox360
Produced by: Platinum Games / Hideki Kamiya
Rated – M (for mature)
Torn between two worlds: heaven & earth, angels & demons, limbo is not what it’s cracked up to be. This is where B, our heroine is placed: a world of wonder, history, and darkness. Being one of the “lost witches”, he vows to right the wrongs that have been made onto those in the past. Meanwhile facing enormous odds against those: from upon high, and below. Welcome to a tale, of magic, action, suspense, and mystery unlike any other.
Bayonetta’s tale is told through chapters “Verses”. And as your mission unfolds, you will find lost books that unveil the history of the torn worlds, including: enemies, and bosses encountered, and weaponry.
In-game money is composed of an item called “Halo’s”, the rings that are above the angels’ heads. Gather up enough, and drop by “The Gates of Hell”, and visit with the cheerful shop owner. At the “Gates of Hell”, items for health, weapons, and special moves can be purchased here. Another neat feature within B’s quest is the option of being able to compose mixtures of compounds. Items found within each chapter, can be fused to create health & magic items. Master these well, and you will find a diverse collection of goodies whenever you need them.
Each “Verse” unfolds B’s tale from start to finish, finding old friends, to meeting old enemies from days long ago. Character dialog is given a unique touch, from B’s “sassy” attitude, to Jeanne’s “angst”, and much more. Even the villains you come across have their own personality. From angels, to watchdogs, and a few beasts that dislike a pretty face wanting to make them eat dirt.
Bayonetta’s in-game soundtrack is an: exciting, diverse, energetic, and psychotic. B’s background tunes are just about everywhere, from jazz, rock, to electronica. Plus there are a few hidden Easter egg tracks that are waiting to be found. Depending on the situation surrounding both B & the player, the music will shift to a darker tone until a health item is used. Boss themes are composed of power, and strength, versus the lovely lady’s opposing attitude, which mixes well during boss fights. (Think of Jet Set Radio Future’s song playlist, which shifted during your escapades around town)
Controls within B’s adventure are simply setup, but can be changed whenever the player decides. On the plus side, the controls are timely pressed (for QTE events) which work seamlessly. Plus there is an alternative reaction, for moments such as torture attack, versus boss, and escaping obstacles. (1) Torture Attack = aka “pushing buttons” This mode is active once B has delivered enough damage towards enemies nearby, thus delivering the final blow (or crush, smash, or ripping a black hole to summon an entity). (2) Boss fight(s) – Player versus enemy, the classic finale to every stage. But in this game, some enemies make a comeback, depending on how well B delivers blows. Once a foe’s ass is kicked to bits, the finish is a lovely QTE that involves a descriptive finishing move that requires timed button presses to earn, and receive extra “halos”. (3) Obstacles are a classic platformers’ best friend, or worst enemy. In B’s case, it’s a mix of the two, consisting of monumental getaways (close to Indiana Jones). This mode happens rarely often, but once it’s active get ready to run!! (And watch out for baddies that make your getaway a headache, ignore them and keep going!)
Before we wrap us this review, I must give kudos to a friend of mine, Leigh Alexander. A writer that delivers: knowledge, wit, wisdom, and downright awesome. Leigh introduced me to the game Bayonetta, by way of her writing. Be sure to read some of her diverse works @
http://sexyvideogameland.blogspot.com/
http://www.gamepro.com/article/features/213466/bayonetta-empowering-or-exploitative/
(This review is a must read, it may open your mind on how to take a game, not so seriously)
Monday, January 31, 2011
Music in My Soul
So the Grammys are 2 weeks away (where did the time go?) http://www.grammy.com/nominees
Turns out a lot of familiar names might not be receiving kudos this time around. But one in particular actually is receiving an awesome nomination... his first!
Although I may love every genre out there, electronica / dance / techno has always been thought to be "thump-da-da-da--thump-dee=da=do". One ongoing beat, akin to "Ace of Base" which were notorious for the most insane idea to make a song. But hey they had to make a buck.
(note AoB was an example, but they honestly had something going there)
In the mid 90's a young fellow by the unknown name of BT hit the scene. From Deep Dish (not the pizza) but an actual production team, BT was the third musketeer. From then on, he kept going, producing new idea(s) taken from his childhood, being creative and making music come to life like never before. It wasn't your typical "house" or "trance" sound either, but an ecletic plethora of sounds you would never expect to be embraced in song.
Learn more of his phenomenal story @ http://www.grammy.com/blogs/first-time-nominee-bt-part-one
http://www.grammy.com/blogs/first-time-nominee-bt-part-two
Turns out a lot of familiar names might not be receiving kudos this time around. But one in particular actually is receiving an awesome nomination... his first!
Although I may love every genre out there, electronica / dance / techno has always been thought to be "thump-da-da-da--thump-dee=da=do". One ongoing beat, akin to "Ace of Base" which were notorious for the most insane idea to make a song. But hey they had to make a buck.
(note AoB was an example, but they honestly had something going there)
In the mid 90's a young fellow by the unknown name of BT hit the scene. From Deep Dish (not the pizza) but an actual production team, BT was the third musketeer. From then on, he kept going, producing new idea(s) taken from his childhood, being creative and making music come to life like never before. It wasn't your typical "house" or "trance" sound either, but an ecletic plethora of sounds you would never expect to be embraced in song.
Learn more of his phenomenal story @ http://www.grammy.com/blogs/first-time-nominee-bt-part-one
http://www.grammy.com/blogs/first-time-nominee-bt-part-two
Saturday, December 11, 2010
Tron!! (and the quest of the where did it go?)
Lo it is December, and Tron Legacy is only a week away.
But I went on a hunt to find any stores that carried a copy. Nay, none.
Even the internet is filled with distilled vinegar (which right now is bitter).
Bummer, I hope it might be re-released before the sequel.
I haven't watched it since it was on laserdisc. (ahem)
On the plus side, hit dj's JohnJay & Rich are stopping by Tucson Mall next week.
Been wanting to chat with those two forever. Haha. Who knows?!
*pics too of my crazy adventure coming soon
And college next year! huzzah! Oh fudge, next month. Where did the time go?
But I went on a hunt to find any stores that carried a copy. Nay, none.
Even the internet is filled with distilled vinegar (which right now is bitter).
Bummer, I hope it might be re-released before the sequel.
I haven't watched it since it was on laserdisc. (ahem)
On the plus side, hit dj's JohnJay & Rich are stopping by Tucson Mall next week.
Been wanting to chat with those two forever. Haha. Who knows?!
*pics too of my crazy adventure coming soon
And college next year! huzzah! Oh fudge, next month. Where did the time go?
Saturday, June 19, 2010
Review - American on Purpose -
- Late Owl
Its 11:35pm in your area, then some character ablazes the screen with energy & pizazz. (and I do mean emphasis on the word "pizazz") There is no other talk show like it, nor is the talk show host himself like anyone you have ever seen before, or read of. This is an "Ode to a Scotsman".
- September 5 years ago
I remember watching late night tv talk shows every summer, when I wasn't in school as a young lad. But as I grew older, my attention grew more towards late night shows. Something about being able to break through tv, wherein after David Letterman was that Craig Killborn guy. Mind you, I never really understood why he hosted the "Late Late Show" to begin with. Too much of his hair, and some phony persona. Was it a knock on another late night host? Pretty sure it was.. but 2005 it all changed.
As a longtime "Drew Carey" fan I find myself noticing a familiar face. And then was hooked, and so my conscience said to me, "Craig Ferguson is a character & delight to keep up with every night". No longer was he some extra talent on another show, or dealt with tough criticism. *For those that have seen some of Craig's work, "Saving Grace" is one you can't miss.*
The Late Late Show no longer felt humdrum, and then came along the mention of a book. But the book? The life story!? It might be awhile till we get to read it.
- American on Purpose 2009
For awhile I kept trying to hunt down a copy of the book, but never could find it. Till I found out a local library here in Marana / Tucson, AZ carried a copy. And waited.. thankfully I read the book and it is totally worth the wait.
And here is the review (written in a non-sequitter fashion)-
Life, music, talent, and energy. Those four words altogether describe the individual known as Craig Ferguson. From the land of Glasgow, facing challenges everyday; from a young kid to an unknown destiny. To "running the gauntlet", or taking a sip of some strange brew that would take over his life.
Family - to Craig this is one of the core points of his livelihood. From his mother & father, older brother & sis, to his baby sister (whom is also a writer for the "Late Late Show"). Its his inspiriation, and challenges that kept him going. Including his son, Milo who is another chapter of his life. *And not to forget the women in his life, to the "stepping stones", and the one whom he shares his life with now.
As a talented character Craig has seen some fallouts. Not only from his musical background, but to films, directing, writing, and producing. Some were successes, and others were failures. Each though taught him a lesson "to keep on going".
"American On Purpose" is a must own book, for those that enjoy a different take from a late night / talented character. (available in hardcover & paperback)
http://www.amazon.com/American-Purpose-LP-Improbable-Adventures/dp/0061885452
To learn more about Craig's acting, writing, and directing career visit his IMDB page
http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0272401/
And if you've missed any "Late Late Show" escapades, visit the LLS site!
http://www.cbs.com/late_night/late_late_show/
Its 11:35pm in your area, then some character ablazes the screen with energy & pizazz. (and I do mean emphasis on the word "pizazz") There is no other talk show like it, nor is the talk show host himself like anyone you have ever seen before, or read of. This is an "Ode to a Scotsman".
- September 5 years ago
I remember watching late night tv talk shows every summer, when I wasn't in school as a young lad. But as I grew older, my attention grew more towards late night shows. Something about being able to break through tv, wherein after David Letterman was that Craig Killborn guy. Mind you, I never really understood why he hosted the "Late Late Show" to begin with. Too much of his hair, and some phony persona. Was it a knock on another late night host? Pretty sure it was.. but 2005 it all changed.
As a longtime "Drew Carey" fan I find myself noticing a familiar face. And then was hooked, and so my conscience said to me, "Craig Ferguson is a character & delight to keep up with every night". No longer was he some extra talent on another show, or dealt with tough criticism. *For those that have seen some of Craig's work, "Saving Grace" is one you can't miss.*
The Late Late Show no longer felt humdrum, and then came along the mention of a book. But the book? The life story!? It might be awhile till we get to read it.
- American on Purpose 2009
For awhile I kept trying to hunt down a copy of the book, but never could find it. Till I found out a local library here in Marana / Tucson, AZ carried a copy. And waited.. thankfully I read the book and it is totally worth the wait.
And here is the review (written in a non-sequitter fashion)-
Life, music, talent, and energy. Those four words altogether describe the individual known as Craig Ferguson. From the land of Glasgow, facing challenges everyday; from a young kid to an unknown destiny. To "running the gauntlet", or taking a sip of some strange brew that would take over his life.
Family - to Craig this is one of the core points of his livelihood. From his mother & father, older brother & sis, to his baby sister (whom is also a writer for the "Late Late Show"). Its his inspiriation, and challenges that kept him going. Including his son, Milo who is another chapter of his life. *And not to forget the women in his life, to the "stepping stones", and the one whom he shares his life with now.
As a talented character Craig has seen some fallouts. Not only from his musical background, but to films, directing, writing, and producing. Some were successes, and others were failures. Each though taught him a lesson "to keep on going".
"American On Purpose" is a must own book, for those that enjoy a different take from a late night / talented character. (available in hardcover & paperback)
http://www.amazon.com/American-Purpose-LP-Improbable-Adventures/dp/0061885452
To learn more about Craig's acting, writing, and directing career visit his IMDB page
http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0272401/
And if you've missed any "Late Late Show" escapades, visit the LLS site!
http://www.cbs.com/late_night/late_late_show/
Saturday, June 5, 2010
Movie Review - Prince of Persia - The Sands of Time
- Beginnings
Early on, a fellow by the name of Jordan Mechner loved movies. Classic, fast-paced, and heart wrenching adventures. In the early 80's he brought his ideas to life, in a film project with his brother & famlily. Creating two diverse games called "Karateka" & "Prince of Persia". From the start you were given a short introduction, then tossed into a dungeon. Along with a time clock, you had to engage every catacomb, trap, clash with guards, and many perils. But you did it all to save the woman, your hero loved. It was a simple premise, but it opened up a plethora of a imaginitive minds.
- The Next Step
Akin to Prince of Persia's legacy, JM continued on various projects. Most notably a mystery game called "The Last Express", and various documentaries. For some time, JM took a long deserved break from designing games, and sought other projects. But something brought him back to games, a company by the name of UbiSoft thought of reviving the PoP franchise (which ran into many rough spots throughout the years). Thankfully being an advisor, "Sands of Time" was given approval, and gave the series a new life, and an engaging story.
- From videogame to film, the journey unfolds
Jerry Bruckheimer, many film fans know this name, and thankfully his crew delivers their utmost word. For those that have been fans of "Pirates of the Caribbean", to CSI (Miami, NY) , and many of his production teams other projects. "Sands of Time" as interpreted into a film treatment has been done with the utmost care, and still gives its best to fans either from the gaming community, or those who love action movies.
Going to diverse aspects of lost kingdoms, and the desert dunes. Every background piece is a part of the story, between night & day, and battles that take place. Motion & solemn moments are carefully directed with diligence that JB's team delivers.
Storywise, SoT takes a departure from the in-game series, and takes the viewer on a different quest. Following the same prince, now as we know as "Dastan", his origin, and how he came to be. To meeting the "damsel in distress", along with the "dagger", "allies", and the "villains".
In short, "Sands of Time" is an excellent movie, and definitely not one to miss.
*Bonus links -
http://jordanmechner.com/ Jordan Mechner's official website
http://ubisoft.com/
http://adisney.go.com/disneypictures/princeofpersia/
http://prince-of-persia.us.ubi.com/ Official Series site
Early on, a fellow by the name of Jordan Mechner loved movies. Classic, fast-paced, and heart wrenching adventures. In the early 80's he brought his ideas to life, in a film project with his brother & famlily. Creating two diverse games called "Karateka" & "Prince of Persia". From the start you were given a short introduction, then tossed into a dungeon. Along with a time clock, you had to engage every catacomb, trap, clash with guards, and many perils. But you did it all to save the woman, your hero loved. It was a simple premise, but it opened up a plethora of a imaginitive minds.
- The Next Step
Akin to Prince of Persia's legacy, JM continued on various projects. Most notably a mystery game called "The Last Express", and various documentaries. For some time, JM took a long deserved break from designing games, and sought other projects. But something brought him back to games, a company by the name of UbiSoft thought of reviving the PoP franchise (which ran into many rough spots throughout the years). Thankfully being an advisor, "Sands of Time" was given approval, and gave the series a new life, and an engaging story.
- From videogame to film, the journey unfolds
Jerry Bruckheimer, many film fans know this name, and thankfully his crew delivers their utmost word. For those that have been fans of "Pirates of the Caribbean", to CSI (Miami, NY) , and many of his production teams other projects. "Sands of Time" as interpreted into a film treatment has been done with the utmost care, and still gives its best to fans either from the gaming community, or those who love action movies.
Going to diverse aspects of lost kingdoms, and the desert dunes. Every background piece is a part of the story, between night & day, and battles that take place. Motion & solemn moments are carefully directed with diligence that JB's team delivers.
Storywise, SoT takes a departure from the in-game series, and takes the viewer on a different quest. Following the same prince, now as we know as "Dastan", his origin, and how he came to be. To meeting the "damsel in distress", along with the "dagger", "allies", and the "villains".
In short, "Sands of Time" is an excellent movie, and definitely not one to miss.
*Bonus links -
http://jordanmechner.com/ Jordan Mechner's official website
http://ubisoft.com/
http://adisney.go.com/disneypictures/princeofpersia/
http://prince-of-persia.us.ubi.com/ Official Series site
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