Charles

[QUOTE][i]Originally posted by yuka-kitsune [/i] [B]it's good [/B][/QUOTE] I've begun to notice a troubling trend with your posts, Yuka-kitsune. You have a bad habit of posting brief comments that do not really add anything of value to the discussion at hand. Elaborate on your opinions. [i]Why[/i] do you believe that the banner is good? Simply saying "it's good" is not acceptable; it's doesn't help the artist in any way. If you can't post valuable opinions then I see no reason for you to post at all. I encourage you to read our rules regarding post quality.

I really like this; it's interesting. You took the basic components of a fairy tale (an evil wizard threatening a prosperous kingdom) and presented it with an original twist. The result is a whimsical play on language that uses repetition and humor very effectively. The trait that I admire about your writing, is that you care about every word you put down--and it shows in the craftsmanship. For instance, it's fabulous how you integrated aspects from Homeric epics into your storytelling. Each character has a constant title attached to them, for us to identify with (i.e., Good Lego King Harry, Lorenzo The Hideous). All of your characters are genuinely interesting. Even Lorenzo's cat, Mordolva is brought to life with vivid description. However, I do have some issues with this piece. The rhyme scheme becomes a bit shaky in certain areas. For example: [quote][b]For when he was drunk, he got quite mad, Obnoxious and rude, much like a dad.[/b][/quote] Areas like this are a bit rocky and noticeably weaker than your more clever lines. Although awkward rhythms have the potential to take the reader out of the story, the overall quality and consistency of your work kept me absorbed. Another gripe I have with your work concerns the audience. Who is the audience here? At first glance, one would think that this is a children's story. But, upon closer inspection, I notice situations that involve hangover induced vomiting, bed talk and mild language that includes words like "hell." Lastly, I feel that the lego angle could have been played up just a [i]tad[/i] better. Sometimes the concept gets lost, and I don't feel like this is a world of plastic. Lorenzo strokes his beard, for instance and I remember curtains being closed. I'm not entirely sold on the principle that this is a story about lego people. The fact that you continuously remind the reader that this [i]is[/i] indeed a lego world through repetition of the word "lego" saves it. Overall, I enjoyed the story; it was fun. Like most, if not all of your work, it's incredibly clever and somewhat startling.

The trailer gave off a distinct B-Movie movie vibe with the blurred, dithered imagery. It reminds me of [i]The Blair Witch Project[/i], in that sense; it's a low budget film that relies on perspective and character interaction to build tension instead of using snazzy effects as a crutch for building fear. The post apocalyptic setting looks like it'll be genuinely eerie--a setting that will also be used by the next [i]Resident Evil[/i] film. I hope that the movie uses the feeling of loneliness and helplessness that this environment provides to sell the plot, because the cheesy zombie designs look laughable, save for their glowing red eyes. But, on the bright side, the sound editing, from what I've heard, is extremely well done, with eerie music choices and such. [i]28 Days Later[/i] has received mixed reviews from what I've seen, but I'm a sucker for zombie movies. I have a feeling that it'll be a lot better than [i]Jeepers Creepers 2[/i] or [i]Wrong Turn[/i], so I'm really looking forward to this movie! There probably won't be any thing better from the horror genre this summer, anyway.

Taking away too much? You've been here for all of five minutes. lol None of those images in your signature were acceptable because they all exceeded the maximum dimensions we allow here. I hardly see how you can compare OtakuBoards to a prison based on that criteria. The rules that we have in place are here for a reason. The image restrictions, for example, ensure that members will enjoy the most convenient browsing speeds possible. It's unfortunate that after four posts you've become so discouraged over such a trivial matter that you've decided to storm off. But, it's your loss; you're the one missing out on the quality environment and special atmosphere that this community offers. I tried to act as pleasantly as possible and treat you fairly while performing the duties of my job--but if such practical guidelines are too strict for you (and I wonder if you've even bothered to actually [i]read[/i] our rules in their entirety yet), then I agree with your decision to find a site that's more suitable to your interests.

Hey there Vince. Although, as others have mentioned, introduction threads aren't allowed (because when we had an Introduction forum, it quicky became a spamming ground), members will get to know you well as you post more and reveal your personality and interests. I hope that you have a lot of fun and make plenty of friends. But, be sure to read the rules. They certainly come in handy. For example, you are only allowed to have one image in your signature, no larger than 500 X 100 pixels in dimension. I'll clean up your signature for you this time though. ^^

Hey, I like these a lot, Subversive. The design is very interesting and the graffiti logo is perfect for something like this. I personally don't mind the lack of activity in the background. But, as a way of providing some constructive insight, perhaps I should suggest that the logo would work better, if it looked like it was part of a tagged wall or mural instead. Just a little food for thought.

I don't have muscle spasms exactly, but sometimes I'll experience the sensation of falling, while I'm either asleep or [i]almost[/i] asleep. I'll be walking from my own point of view, suddenly trip, and wake up with a start. I'm always very relieved that it's not real! O_o;;

Well, yeah, I'm fairly confident that the entire game won't be limited to the jungle atmosphere. According to what I've read, this is an approach that Kojima's been hoping to integrate into the series for quite some time: basically capture the feel or a real infiltration mission, where you land off target and use survival techniques to reach your destination. That, combined with the fact that the central character is most likely Big Boss, actually have me looking forward to the game--even after the MGS2 debacle. Especially after I read Kojima's statement about making the title more action oriented than cinematic driven. So, it's nice to see the series return to its roots. I think that the jungle environment really opens up a lot of interesting possibilities. Some confirmed abilities, like hiding in brush and dropping down from trees and such sound interesting. Overall, the outdoor environments just offer so many advantages over the indoor ones (if they're structure properly, of course). Not only are they more fitting for a stealth oriented game, but the ambiance and constant threat of dangerous animals, like snakes, really give me the impression that game will keep my attention longer than MGS2 did.

I don't feel that there's actually a point in keeping this thread open; its purpose could have been fulfilled in a signature or something. And, even if some kind of actual discussion were to result from this thread, it really wouldn't be practical to hold it in Otaku Lounge, anyway. The discussion, after all, appears to be PC gaming related. If anyone has the answer to this question, they can private message DBZM_Brolly.

Well, it has been a while since I've posted a tongue-in-cheek banner that makes perverse, juvenile allusions. So, I thought to myself, "Charles, you need to post a tongue-in-cheek banner that makes perverse, juvenile allusions." And then I answered myself by saying, "You know, you're right Charles, you [i]do[/i] need to post a tongue-in-cheek banner that makes perverse, juvenile allusions." Sooooo, I did just that, I posted a--well, you know. It basically pays homage to my favorite genre of video games and, at the same time, a character with a name that anyone simply [i]has[/i] to love. I decided that it would be best to gather opinions on it before actually including it in the ol' siggy. I don't know if it's really worth including. So far, the people I've polled on AIM have had positive reactions though. For example: MoonBeam XVI: O___o MoonBeam XVI: uhm.... yeah. Well, just look at that satisfied customer. Now, without any further ado, see it for yourself! [url]http://cwb.250free.com/Others/BigDik.gif[/url] Oh, and as for the George Bush bit--Vampire Ed helped me put this together and he seems to have some sick obsession with Bush. So, that's why it's in there. It's not really meant to serve any sort of purpose. :drunk:

Well, as I was telling Mitch and Lady Asphyxia, one of my poems is supposedly going to get published--and it just happens to be the one listed below. It's a semi finalist in a poetry competition according to the letter I've received. But, we'll see. I just figured I should post it, so that people don't get to see my middle name whenever I direct them towards the site. lol This basically continues my trend of poems that explore depressing urban plight. [size=1]Visceral fears copulate with unfettered tears Impetuous cries fall short of apathetic ears Rivulets of doom quench a blind shepherd's thirst Unwilling to see truth when truth is painfully clear Slipping in and out of this hell, all fallen angels, we the cursed Live rejected in this endless living nightmare Bring grief to a world that refuses to care Now stalking through this valley we stumble and fall In the ruins of greatness reduced to a crawl Former symbols of human ingenuity lie in inequality's wake Graffiti art plots this place for expression's sake A fleshless triggerman moving between twisted iron bars Killing the hope of a people as distant to us as the stars But through this silence, this silence in the air Lies a remedy to this silent despair Although equality is but a myth between us Despite everything that is unequal between us We all have the ability to reach inside, to aspire To stand on tiptoes and touch these stars Because faith is no liar.[/size]

Only recently, various sub forums related to various anime series, such as the ones you specified, were collapsed due to inactivity. They simply didn't have the fan interest to warrant their own forums. The Cowboy Bebop forum, in particular, failed as both a stand-alone forum [i]and[/i] a sub forum, so I don't see a point in "reviving" it. You're still free to discuss these anime in the Anime Lounge forum, though. Oh, and perhaps you should take your time and be more careful when posting. Your posts are a tad bit difficult to understand. So, if you could improve your spelling and punctuation, it would be great.

Welcome back to OtakuBoards, LosingFaith. Although I'm going to close this because it is essentially an introduction thread, I'm sure that others will welcome you back by critiquing your poetry. ^^

I like my good pal Lady Katana Talking to her's more fun than listening to Carlos Santana She's sweeter than a week-old banana And now I know all about "Tamma" and "Ranma" You're always stuck using AIM Express So getting links from you can be quite a mess Now I must digress I still don't know what a Liger is, lady Is it a Pokemon like Chansey maybe? The fact that I'm posting this poem at all, is kinda creepy Just like our conversations when I'm sleepy You read, you draw, you do work You are "teh" number one librarian clerk It's a shame that you aren't allowed to have pets But, at least you have Golbats, Psyducks and Digletts! Your new RPG is super cool Now, I know this poem doesn't exacly rule But what can I say; I'm a rhyming fool ^^

I haven't been on a school trip since my senior year in high school, but they were always pretty enjoyable. I was a part of the "Partners in Art" program, and what we did, was basically visit local elementary schools and work alongside the kids with their projects. Some of them were pretty shy, which was understandable, but it was pretty easy to identify with them once I found the right approach and common interests (i.e., they found out that I could draw The Rock from WWE perfectly). From that point on, we really had a lot of fun together. I'm a big kid, so it wasn't a far stretch anyway. :wigout: The only other normal field trip that was memorable, was our visit to Edgar Allen Poe's house. His basement, in particular, was super creepy. I wanted to rip open his floor boards and look for a heart but I don't think we were allowed to.... :Tries to arrange trip to secret underground OtakuBoards headquarters:

Ahoy hoy, Animefreakgirl. Welcome to OtakuBoards; we've been looking for more freakish girls. Our dungeons are growing cold and lonely since we forgot to feed the others. Anyway, we no longer allow introduction threads on OtakuBoards because our introduction forum began to transform into a breeding ground for spam, and it wasn't an image we wanted to portray to new members. While the posts were friendly, it probably helped newbies pick up bad habits more than anything else. As you begin to post and make new friends, I'm sure others will begin to recognize you and get to know you better. Just remember that hosting random images is a big "no-no." You may only upload relevant images that serve some sort of purpose. Now, enough lecturing from me. Welcome to OtakuBoards and have fun. If you have any questions, feel free to private message our staff members.

A few things here, MinakoChan. I think that you should look over our forums and see how things work before you begin posting. Otaku Lounge is not the proper forum for a discussion like this--I think it's pretty obvious that it belongs in the Music, Movies & TV forum. So, I don't think you've really looked around carefully. Secondly, your thread titles should be relevant to the discussion at hand. Simply titling this topic "Yeah," is inappropriate; it's too vague. With that being said, I'm going to use my bag of magic beans to lock this thread. In the future, try to apply more thought and effort to your posts. Simply listing bands doesn't create much room for a worthwhile discussion. And who doesn't like "good" rock bands? lol While it's true that members may "take the floor" and pull a good discussion out of this, I think this would be a perfect opportunity to show you the ropes, and help you develop quality in your posts. Perhaps you could create a thread actually [i]discussing[/i] certain bands?

Well, here we are! This is where you, the public, will work in unison with our judges to take us one step closer in our search to realize the first Otaku Idol. We apologize for the short delay, but hopefully it gave everyone the chance to read the submissions carefully. Unfortunately, Blackroseoni will automatically be ejected from the competition for failing to submit an entry. But, nine other talented writers have cranked out their own unique entries. So, this round was a success, I think. Now it's time to determine which contestant's Otaku Idol experience won't end happily ever after. Choose your favorite entry and place your vote in the above poll. Remember, you're encouraged to openly analyze the submissions by posting critiques in this thread as our judges will, but only your vote within the poll will be counted. Our judges, on the other hand, will not be voting in the poll. The contestants with the most votes will pass onto the next round. The contestant with the least will be eliminated. If there are multiple contestants on the bottom tier, the official judges will choose who is ejected. Voting in the next round will work somewhat differently. The procedure will be explained when we post the next thread. If you would like to be a guest judge for the next round of Otaku Idol, be sure to private message Heaven's Cloud, telling him why you would be the best choice. Be as creative as you wish. And remember, just because you're not selected for one round, doesn't mean that your application won't roll over to another. You might still be contacted for future rounds. Note: Staff members [b]are[/b] eligible for guest judge positions.

[QUOTE][i]Originally posted by Mnemolth [/i][b] Now, I would like someone to please explain to me how you can find Charles a nice, reasonable and fair person to deal with when you put his post, next to mine (see second page), and then compare them. You start well enough by saying you don't wanna jump on me. Of course then you go and lay it on thick. "..started throwing a fit like a little girl..", "...Get a clue, man...", etc, etc...[/b][/quote] I said that I wouldn't hold your opinion against you when it comes to moderator strictness--and I didn't. C'mon, open your eyes. My post was "just the universal self-deprecating humor you find amongst anyone who doesn't take themselves too seriously." :D ;) :D ;) Basically, what I addressed, was the jab you took at the site's administration as it applies to our decision making process. It's one thing to hold a baseless opinion; anyone can do that, I'm afraid. But, it's another to hold an informed opinion. Your post contained more of the former than the latter: Half-truths that hold little ground in the context of this discussion. I don't think that all of your points were related to moderator strictness. The fact that you of all people, someone who constantly reminds us of your age and all the sage-like wisdom that it implies, should call anyone egocentric is almost funny. It's like the pot calling the kettle black. [quote][b]I don't know when I admonish the administration for the failure of my RPW thing. Nor the members. Unless you mean the membership of RPW. I can see how a member of RPW can interpret it that way, but I don't see that I've said anything against the membership of OB or against the administration. Here's the thread, maybe someone can tell me what the heck you mean. [url]http://www.otakuboards.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=21237&perpage=15&pagenumber=2[/url] I mentioned something about "kids" but as Sem points out I do that all the time. I know for a fact that Juutheena didn't like what I said one little bit, but I did apologise for any offense that may have been taken. I don't think I chucked a hissy fit. I think it was more a case of me conveying my disappointment, in the first post and in the second long one, trying to 'rally-the-troops', as it were. Only I was trying to be as honest as possible. If you think that's a hissy fit then *shrugs*...I am a little girl and I throw tantrums. And what was wrong with asking James for permission to do multiple threads again? Unless you mean the very fact that he allowed me to do it shows that he isn't too strict. I don't find that a very convincing argument in and of itself.[/b][/quote] I'll tell you what the heck I mean: [QUOTE][i][b]From Mnemolth Posts 2003[/i] Well I tried demmit!! I built a whole freaking website and everything....not my fault people on this Board don't seem to be appreciative. I do have another, perhaps more palatable idea for OB, but I dunno whether I'll get that going now. I'm somewhat concerned about the administration of this Board, and also the appetite of its members for anything more substantial than little glib comments in posts.[/b][/quote] Maybe this was your brand of sarcastic humor again--but it seemed like whining to me. Other people put a great deal of effort into their RPGs and they don't attack their own participants or board members when their little project fails. Your RPG enjoyed a fairly lengthy run; yet you still had negative things to say about the site's administration after James had, in fact, allowed you to post it in the first place. I don't get your logic there. Speaking of James--I'm sure that he can handle his own against what you had to say. But before you accuse one of my colleagues of being unable to bend on his decisions, you should at least know what you're talking about. [quote][b]In regard to staff making mistakes, you say you're the first to admit that Mods and Admins make mistakes. That you guys aren't perfect. But you know something? I've never seen you apologise. Now, honestly, you may have and I might have missed it since I stay pretty much in Otaku Public, but no. I haven't seen it. Of course, you can do that privately, but that's not what I'm talking about. I'm talking about an unreserved public admission, a mea culpa. For example, say you closed a thread, and you subsequently reconsider. Well, firstly, I don't see you reconsider much, you almost always stake your position and dig in. But, for the sake of argument, let's say you reconsider and decide that perhaps you were too hasty. I've never seen you reopen a thread with a post explaining JUST THAT in it. This gives the impression, ar least to me, that you never think you're wrong. At least not enough to reverse a previous decision.[/b][/quote] By my estimation, you neglected to read TVE's post in this thread. Here's what he was talking about: [url]http://otakuboards.com/showthread.php?threadid=24398[/url] That link should speak for itself; maybe you should get out of Otaku Public more often. From here on out, I'll just concentrate on responding to the portion of your post that attacks me. :D ;) :D ;) [quote][b]And you're telling me I have trouble handling myself or dealing with other people?? I mean, of course, its pretty easy for me to make all this up, so if you think its all hogwash, then sure, I'm probably that guy in your pic. But if you happen to believe me, then the real question is "How the heck did you get it so wrong?" The final thing I would say is that whatever I've done on OB I don't think I've ever made anyone cry. Now I can't be certain because I only heard it from the person/s themselves, I wasn't there in the flesh to see them, but assuming what they told me is true, you have been responsible for that Charles.[/b][/quote] I won't quote everything you just said--as to avoid making this post unnecessarily long. So, your story isn't omitted because I don't believe there's any merit in it. Well, not only that, but I don't feel like playing an "I have more experience with gay people than you do" game. I can only form opinions about you based on what I see from you on OB. You often flaunt your age and come off as condescending and I find it ironic. Why would someone need to constantly remind others of their age, if not for the purpose of coming off as superior? You're an older man visiting a message board full of children and very young adults--and then you criticize their capacity to understand your underlying messages and such. And then you try to act like their savior with your silly, far fetched rhetoric. Furthermore, I certainly don't remember you dismissing what you said in the very same post. I could have missed it, but I'm almost certain I didn't. The fact that there was confusion over this point can be attributed to your nasty tendency of posting vague messages. I can't be the only one who missed it--Transtic Nerve did as well, if memory serves me correctly. As for making someone cry--what can I say? No one has ever come to me with any sort of problem stemming from one of my posts on the boards. If someone's harboring a grudge against me, then that's their problem. I can't be held accountable for those who dislike what I say when they never approach me about it. I'm not a mind reader. In these situations, people can do one of two things. They can complain about it behind my back, or they can bring their issue to light with me. I can't force people to be honest and upfront with their feelings. The people that I speak to on a personal basis actually [i]tell[/i] me if I've done something to bother them and I do my best to settle the issue with them. [quote][b]The difference between your post and Sem's post is that while Sem was angry, he was not offensive for its own sake. He was a bit strong but that was due to his indignation. You, on the other hand, are simply malicious. You set out to cut me down, and then to point and laugh. Although both of you have pretty negative things to say about me, Sem kept his eye on the ball and so was fair. His intent was not to offend but to make his arguments or points. Intentions are important. To me, they are probably one of the most important things when judging posts or people in general. To me if a post hurts someone, then that is bad. But if a post sets out to hurt or offend, even if it doesn't end up achieving its aim, its worse. That's what I think of your post. I cannot honestly understand how anyone can line up your post with my post early on, and come to the conclusion that you're a nice, rational and reasonable person. It seems, at least to me, the chip is firmly on your shoulder, not mine.[/b][/quote] We don't need to limit the comparison of our posts to this thread. Drawing the line there, judging who we both are and where we stand based on two posts is a bit unfair. I don't feel like playing a childish game--but if we were to really compare our behavior--[i]really[/i] compare it, I would say that you post more hurtful and inflammatory things than I do. I've never called anyone on these boards a "bimbo" that's for sure. You have though. Unlike you, I don't need to remind every one of my accomplishments on a constant basis to fit into the groove here. I don't need to reinforce my age and experience and use that as a means to place myself on a pedestal above others. Look how many times you've laced your posts with metaphors--outright insulting the membership of these forums. If anyone is pointing and laughing, it's you. I hate to beat this RPW thread like a horse (I can find more posts where you act similarly--that's not an issue), but it serves as yet another fine example to illustrate my point: [quote][b]I swear that really bugs me no end. Why is it that 'kids', and by that I mean mid-teenagers or thereabouts, on anime Boards, have such a low tolerance level for effort? I mean come on. If you ever want to do something you gotta put some backbone into it. And if you want to build a community, you need to lead an example. *sighs*[/b][/quote] See, that is what annoys me about you and that is why I made fun of you. You don't like it very much, do you? I read RPW on a frequent basis and it was made possible by younger people who go to school and have commitments and nevertheless tried their best to churn out quality 3,000 word posts. You automatically disregarded all their efforts and reduced them to "lazy kids with no commitment." Was my post any worse than that? Perhaps I should have included a green smiley or a wink. Would that have made it any better? :D ;) :D ;) You're a grown man for goodness sake. It was only a picture of Comic Book Guy. I stand by every damn thing I said in that post--and plenty of others agree with me. I don't dislike you as a person; I barely know anything about you. But, I'm not a big fan of your Mnemolth persona. Maybe, just maybe, you're not as tuned to others' opinions as you think you are. Do you really believe that you don't belittle people on a constant basis with your condescending posts? You certainly aren't the "man of the people" you pretend to be. I'd go as far as to say that you're more egomaniacal and sit on a higher horse than any of our staff members. I know that you have a ball criticizing two administrators in their early twenties so frequently and this membership--but I don't think that you're doing it for anyone but yourself. You want to win petty arguments with the upper tier members of the boards to fuel your ego--that's it. So, my former post wasn't really made to cut you down. It was really only a treat for all those who you've cut down in the past. What goes around comes around. That's if you--[i]look at the smiley, look at the smiley, look at the smiley[/i]--catch my drift. :D

[QUOTE][i]Originally posted by cloricus [/i] [B]Quote | PoisonTongue - In the few months that I've been browsing OtakuBoards, I haven't seen anything to suggest unfair treatment. Criticizing James and Charles is unfounded. - That sentence is illogical. You say that you have had no experience with either James or Charles yet you say to some one who has been here a lot longer and has seen the things that the mods have done and you call them wrong. I hardly think that you are being fair. (Hows that for smashing newbie?s! But seriously, don't just jump up and defend some one without knowing the background. I learnt that the hard way. *Glares at James* :p)[/B][/QUOTE] Just because he's a fairly new member here, doesn't mean that he hasn't browsed through the forums. I've given him links to threads I've wanted him to take a look at [i]numerous[/i] times before he signed up. And he didn't say that he has no experience with me. The fact that he actually [i]knows[/i] me on a personal level (and he mentioned that), means that he has more experience with me than almost anyone on here. Moving on, I'm not going to jump on Mnemolth's case for his opinon on staff strictness. He's entitled to his opinion. That's why this thread was created. Everyone isn't expected to [i]love[/i] how this place is run. I only take exception to the fact that he's so open to criticize without taking into account how the administration has always allowed his opinions, and even accommodated him with his RPW threads. Didn't he private message James for persmission? Oh, and if I remember correctly, Mnemolth is the one who started throwing a fit like a little girl and bashing the membership and administration when it began to die out. Get a clue, man. What do you think is going to happen to an RPG like that when you hold it during school months? lol I thought your comments were unfair to everyone at the time, but I didn't say anything because I'm not some kind of ego maniac who doesn't allow people to their opinions. My observations of you, tell me that you're a guy who takes a messageboard [i]way[/i] too seriously and tries to pass lackluster opinions off with more metaphors than you can shake a stick at, and then when older members like James, Tony, or myself catch you, you try to back out. What kind of mature adult compares homosexuality to bestiality, for example? If I went up to a homosexual guy on the streets and said that, I wouldn't get away with it just because I winked at him. He would probably punch me in the face. Your comments and reasons for making them lead me to believe that you don't know how to behave yourself and deal with people. Perhaps you should do some more research before coming down on others. The reasoning behind the closure of evolution threads has been drawn out in detail--even in the suggestions forum. Did you miss that, kiddo? Another thing that should be pointed out, is that I think you underestimate the intelligence of teens. I've said this on a few occasions to people. The only difference between young people and adults is awareness of the world. Teens and young adults are just as knowledgeable in technology, sex, and balancing responsibility as many adults. You shouldn't underestimate the power of younger people and think that their concepts of maturity are somehow different from yours. The fact that you post on a message board aimed at gaming and anime--and have made friends here--proves that these people are capable of being your equal. The fact that we're even willing to sit here and explain ourselves on a personal level shows that we're more than fair. I mean, we don't [i]have[/i] to do this for anyone. [center][img]http://otakuboards.com/attachment.php?postid=408675[/img][/center] -eps

Well, there are some issues you have to look at here. This site is here to provide a high quality grounds for discussion, where a myriad of people of differing cultures, with varying beliefs, can be free to express themselves. By having a clearly defined set of rules, we can protect that tolerant environment. Most people who visit OtakuBoards don't want to rummage through incoherent posts and put up with ignorant flaming to find intelligent posts. Who does? I don't think that we have any rules that are overly demanding or unfair. Rules regarding spamming or flaming are common on message board forums. I should also point out that many of our current rules were applied due to past experiences (i.e., favorite threads), while others were developed for the convenience of members (such as image size limits in signatures). For the most part, many of our rules are flexible. Moderators will allow favorite threads, as long as they provide some semblance of rational discussion. And members will rarely be banned for violating a rule once. In fact, members are given significant leeway and warned before being banned. Staff often discusses a ban before it is performed, too. The fact that moderators are selected from our community speaks volumes, as well. Our moderators are all members that should be easy to relate to. Because they were once normal members, they're no different from the rest of our community. Many have made many friends here and are easily accessible for questions and advice. That's why they have clearly defined titles--even if you don't notice the area they moderate in, on the main page (which is hard to miss), they're still clearly identifiable. Plus, they provide explanations when threads are closed. These explanations aren't just provided for the hell of it or for the sake of picking on people. They provide insight on why a particular thread breaches the rules. So, are the moderators too strict? Naw. Just look at the variety and creativity of the threads in this forum, for instance. They're not out to ruin anyone's fun. Staff members often participate in fun activities like everyone else. A fair share of mods participate in the Caption Contest thread, for instance. Sara, a category moderator, created the Otaku Yearbook, which is designed to be fun. Our staff even creates events for the public and work alongside the membership, to keep things interesting. Of course, staffers are normal people, and they have their bad days. They might make mistakes or decisions that not everyone will agree with. But, if you look at the quality we enjoy on the boards now, I think it becomes easy to respect and appreciate what they do. Surely though, no one is [i]forced[/i] to post on OtakuBoards. There are [i]tons[/i] of forums out there in the magical world known as the internet. If someone doesn't like how things are run, they're free to provide their input, but those who can't stand the way we do things are free to post elsewhere. It's pretty simple. lol

I think it depends on the situation. I don't think it's completely fair to judge someone and develop concrete conclusions about them based on just one meeting. You know? Someone might be having a bad day, or be in a bad mood, and that can lead to false impressions. Plus, there's just so much to learn about people, that I doubt you can know who someone [i]really[/i] is, by talking to them just once. Of course you're going to make assumptions, and that can't be controlled. It's human. But, I usually don't write people off based on first impressions. If I'm meeting someone for business-related purposes, then first impressions mean a lot. You know, they should be neat, and carry themselves well. But, there are certain things that I can't excuse under any circumstances. If I meet someone and they swear [i]a lot[/i], or they're dirty, or smell bad, then, of course, I won't like them. Those are clues represntative of life habbits. If you think about it though, most of you can probably look back at your first posts and see that first impressions don't accurately depict who you are overall.

[b][u]PERSONAL[/u][/b] [b]Member Name:[/b] Charles [b]Former Member Names:[/b] The Great White Frying Pan Man (May 18th, 2001-August 2001); Crazy White Boy (August 2001-February 20, 2003) [b]Current Status:[/b] Site Administrator [b]Nicknames:[/b] Charlie, CWB, C-Money and God North [b]Favorite Forums:[/b] Otaku Lounge, Fanfiction, etc., Adventure Arena, Battle Arena, Event Arena, Sony, Nintendo, Suggestions & Feedback, OtakuBoards Moderators [b]Favorite RPG:[/b] Don't Shoot the Goombas [b]Favorite Threads:[/b] The Rap Battle: Charlie vs. Charlie, Console War, Xbox Live: Can it save the Xbox, Down with Newbie Lounge: The Online Petition, and The Caption Contest. [b]Favorite Smiley:[/b] :blush: :cool: :smooch: :lecture: :help: :beer: [b]Most Memorable Moment:[/b] Newbie Lounge bites the dust! [b]Quotable Quote:[/b] I tried phone sex once. I got an ear infection. [b]Words of Wisdom:[/b] The only way to love yourself, is by being true to yourself. [b]Wish to be remembered for:[/b] Doing everything there is to do, including inventing "cAttitude" and changing "Battle Arena" over to "Rap Battle Arena." [b]Desired Epitaph:[/b] A playa is a playa until he gets played but I did it my way. [b]Favorites:[/b] Brownies, cookies, sunny afternoons, wrestling, and the color blue. I will.... .......my -eps- to Cloricus .......my Xbox to Tony .......my plastic fangs to The Vampire: Ed .......my poems to James, since he seems to like them. lol .......my rapping skills to Heaven's Cloud--because he so desperately needs them. [b][u]MOST AND BEST[/u][/b] [b]Most likely to succeed:[/b] Mitch, James, Tony, Shy, Lady Asphyxia [b]Most likely to secede:[/b] Kevin [b]Worst spelling:[/b] Pressure [b]Best poster:[/b] Harry [b]Cutest couple:[/b] Chaos and Ken [b]Best writer:[/b] Lady Asphyxia, Mnemolth, Sara and Mitch. [b]Best artist:[/b] Semjaza Azazel [b]Best...spar-er:[/b] Chaos [b]Craziest:[/b] Weh [b]Funniest / wittiest:[/b] Sara, Heaven's Cloud [b]Interesting-er-ist:[/b] Heaven's Cloud [b]Random award:[/b] Best Newbie: PoisonTongue [b][u]SIGNATURES[/u][/b] [b]Mitch[/b]--[i]You've been one of my bestest buds for a while. You know what you want to do, you have the untapped talent, and you feel so strongly about the direction that you want to take in life, that I know you'll be successful. Post Modernism to its fullest, baby! The Hammer Brothers will rise up again. Believe that.[/i] [b]Lady Asphyxia[/b]--[i]Your nickname is "Kat." So, that gives you instant coolness in my book. Plus you're always nice to me and we have fun conversations. And, you also took the very demanding job of becoming my alarm clock! Keep on writing and being so down to earth. You're one of the only people I've actually asked for personal advice, so you rock.[/i] [b]The Vampire: Ed[/b]--[i]You are the man! Probably my best-est friend ever. What more can be said?[/i] [b]Shinobi[/b]:--[i]Man, I'm sorry I still haven't finished that song. I'm such a lazy bum! lol You're always fun to talk to, and your rapping skills are off the hook. That makes you fifteen percent cooler. Oh, thanks for letting me become an OB Brit. Tea for all! O_o;;[/i] [b]Semjaza Azazel:[/b] [i]Even though I'm beating you in debates, 112-7, you're still a pretty intelligent guy. But, the fact that I can always cite Game Informer, helps me in the end. You must have the strangest collection of pictures ever--and that always makes me laugh. So, you're definitely one of the funnest people I talk to. I should also mention that your artwork amazes me. You're one of the best artists I've ever met, when it comes to illustrating on a computer program.[/i] [b]Heaven's Cloud:[/b] [i]You and I started a rap revolution and it was more enjoyable than I ever thought it would be. Not only that, but you've made some great contributions, like being largely responsible for getting Otaku Idol off the ground. Kudos for you buddy![/i] [b]KittyLynn:[/b] [i]Your name alone says how super cool you are. You're a fun person and definitely one of the cooler members of OB. Keep it real, boo![/i] [b]Shy:[/b] [i]One day Bosko WILL be the OB official mascot. angel:[/i] [b]PoisonTongue:[/b] [i]Stop eating so much pizza![/i] [b]James:[/b] [i]You're definitely one of the most intelligent guys I've met and it's an honor that you trust me with what I do. And you've been really supportive of me, which means a lot. Although you're lacking a bit in the area cAttitude, you're a talented person and you always seem to know what you're talking about while not sounding snobbish or condescending. That's a tremendous quality.[/i] [b]Roxie[/b]: [i]Hey, don't look down on yourself, kiddo. You're very mature for your age and I think you have the ability to make people feel good. The fact that you're so close with many of your friends shows how likable and valuable of a friend you are.[/i] [b]Zidane:[/b] [i]I won't even try to spell your new name. You're definitely one of my better friends. I can't believe I almost forgot to include a signy thing. You've really surprised me with your writing skill (your writing in Project Gamer was great), and you've always been a pleasant person to speak with. [/i] [b]Mei:[/b] [i]I'll still get you (and Juu) back for that Caption Contest thread you little buggers. You're definitely a great person to talk to. You meow a lot and show me cool girl/cat hybrid pics, so mesa think you're neat-o.[/i] [b]Subversive[/b]: [i]You are probably one of the best freestylers I know. I look forward to spitting rhymes with you. Maybe I can teach you something.[/i] [b]Kevin:[/b] [i]I've been friends with you for over a year. We haven't always seen eye-to-eye on everything, but you're one of the people I feel I can trust with things and a good friend. You have your tough times, but you're a genuinely good person and you always overcome them. I think that's an admirable trait. You do your best to make your site a fun place to visit and it's made a lot of progress. I've seen you come a long way since we've first met. Good luck with everything and be friends with Roxie!--Your homie, Charles.[/i]

Oh man, I'm going to have to smack you across the face again, Hataki and knock some sense into you. These opinions just will not do. lol Kidding aside, I'm glad that you guys found some enjoyment in the game. Personally, I was very disappointed. It's one of the very few sequels in recent memory that was inferior to its predecessor in almost every way possible (the only other one that comes to mind right now is [i]Sonic Adventure 2[/i]). For some reason, I just didn't find the game enjoyable. The level designs were poor, the camera was too far removed from the action, and the storyline was [i]terrible[/i]. Where did Dante's trademark attitude go? If anything, I'd probably prefer to try [i]Chaos Legion[/i] instead. It's said to have it's share of problems, but it looks promising.

As Cage finishes his sentence, a man dressed like a Secret Service agent runs onstage. There are four of these men at the foot of the stage, and one on each end. Who knows when some nostalgic extremist might try and attack the speaker at a "Next Gen" Convention? The guard whispers something into Cage?s ear, which causes Cage to gasp, but then sigh in relief. He asks the guard a pair of questions, all the while with his hand on the main microphone. The guard leaves the stage, and Cage leans down to Sonya Blade and relays to her whatever news the guard has brought to him. Sonya has similar reactions to it. Cage finishes talking to his female associate while the crowd buzzes with worry at whatever this news could be. It rises to a clamor before Cage wipes his brow with his handkerchief, adjusts his tie, and stands before the podium again. He composes himself and begins to speak. The crowd gasps collectively, then begins loud chattering again. Cage raises his hand for silence. "Everyone, I have an announcement to make," he says "It's very dramatic, I think. My close colleague, Jax Briggs, has defeated--[i]yes[/i] [b]defeated[/b] Little Mac! Now isn't that something! Super news indeed! [center][img]http://therob578.250free.com/punchout.jpg[/img][/center] Cage takes a sip of water while the crowd applauds and whistles enthusiastically. "Yes, yes, very neat," he says, "This is just further proof of our superiority in the world of gaming. It is our kind that has defeated the likes of Shang Tsung and Shao Kahn time and time again and it's our kind that once put an end to those super bad guys during the "Project Gamer" ordeal. You know it folks, I kid you not!" Scattered groupings of women shriek with delight, and call out Johnny's name. "We love you Johnny," they say. They say "We're your number one fans!" He says, "And now we will win this war. I mean, what can [i]they[/i] do? [i]Jump[/i] on us? Jump on our heads! Give me a break! Really!" The crowd is popping beyond all sanity at this point, and Cage stops, raising his arms. He screams ?I ain?t the only one up in here! Give it up for the demon slayer, Dante! Let?s get this staaaaarrrtttteeeed!? Johnny, surrounded by security, fights through the crowd, who bump the guards to a point where they almost crush the martial arts icon they've sworn to protect. A clearing is seen up ahead. The crowd is particularly raucous around this clearing. Cage's entourage finally elbows its way into the clearing, and who do we see, but Sony's own Parappa the Rapper. Cage smiles, revealing two beautiful rows of bleached teeth. "Seriously, do you have a house?" Cage says, elbowing the small dog boy in his side playfully, "An apartment? A shack? Please tell me you at least live in a box in that alley out there. It doesn't really matter, since I, Johnny Cage, seem to be the only person who knows how to capitalize on a lucrative video game contract. You're here for another handout aren't you?" Embarrassed, but not deterred. Parappa tugs down on his red hat and tries to speak. But, Cage continues. "Oh, where are my manners," he says "I shouldn't speak of the well, well, you know, the less fortunate. After all, I could be one, one day!" Parappa begins to search through his pockets nervously. "Oh, I'm so sorry to bother you Mr. Cage," he says, "but I forgot the lyrics to that singing telegram you wanted me to perform for Pac-Man." "Sorry man," Cage says, "I'm kinda in the middle of something. I have to get out of here or these fans are going to go crazy! It looks like you won't be taking Sunny Funny on that date after all. What wonderful compensation you would have received for that performance!" They finally make it outside. A black limousine pulls up to the front entrance, and a chauffeur wearing a black suit, gray vest and red tie, hops out to open the door for Cage. [i]"Please[/i]," Parappa begs, tugging at Cage's dry cleaned pant legs, "please give me another chance! Just one more chance!" Cage glances at his watch, as if to avoid Parappa's puppy dog eyes. If Cage were to go over the words with the aspiring rapper right now, the fledgling mascot would undoubtedly be able to pull off an Academy Award winning performance and move the classic gaming characters into signing a treaty. Because he's such a generous guy, and wants to avoid violent conflict, he agrees to go over the telegram with Parappa just [i]one[/i] more time, so he better remember it. Cage adjusts his glasses, pushing them further up the bridge of his nose and begins to dance and rap. "Repeat after me," he says. [i]It's time to pass the torch and stay in the past Give modern day games the chance to shine at last Agree to surrender to the almighty Johnny Cage Allow this great actor to take center stage![/i] Cage goes on for about thirty seconds, busting out things that probably are physically impossible, but since this is a work of fiction, they make perfect sense. After his piece, he folds his arms and nods to Parappa to try and outdo him. Parappa then gets absurdly contorted with his motions for his set, moving incredibly well for a dog of his young age--but not quite up to the standards of one--Johnny Cage. He begins to repeat the lines to the best of his ability. [i]It's--time to pass the torch--and stay in the past Give modern day games--chance to shine--last Agree to surrender--the almighty Johnny Cage Allow this great actor--take--stage![/i] [center][b]Bad[/b][/center] A camera has now fought its way through the crowd that has gathered around the two. The crowd moves with the rhythms. Johnny begins his next verse. [i]Johnny's got the charisma He's got the looks He uses words That come straight outta big fat books He's like Joe Chin, only he'll always win If you guys don't surrender to him It will be a sin Your games belong in the bargain bin Give up, give up.[/i] After Cage is done, he and Parappa walk up to one other and start up at the same time--repeating the song, much to the delight of the onlookers. [center][b]Cool[/b][/center] [center][u]The Next Morning[/u][/center] Cage wakes up with a start, and almost soils himself when he sees someone standing at the foot of his bed. It is only the suit he has set up to wear today to impress Lara Croft and show that he is a perfectly fine gentleman already. It is a nice suit. Black knee-length coat, black pants, white stiff-collar shirt, blood red vest, black tie. It has set Cage back about $1500. Boy, was it worth it! He dons it again, and it fits a little loose. Cage has lost some weight since he doesn't have people to bring him food any more. He walks downstairs, rehearsing his victory speech for the imminent reporters and Ms. Croft. He expects today to be the day that the war ends. He tries several postures, the courtly Middle Ages pose, the flourish of the Baroque, the stiffness of the 1790s, and finally the laid back 2003 pose. He settles on just sitting on the anteroom bench and waiting. His hair is slicked back, he has his finest cufflinks on, which are as old as the house he lives in, and valued at $350 each. His shoes are shined to perfection. He picks off a speck of dust. Last night he had heard the upsetting news that Duke Nukem has failed to infiltrate the Mushroom Kingdom incognito--with the elaborate disguise that he, himself, had custom tailored for Duke by Hollywood's finest costume designers. [center][img]http://otakuboards.com/attachment.php?postid=407386[/img][/center] Because of culture shock, Duke mistakenly said to Princess Daisy, "Shake it baby," and had thrown a crumpled wad of bills at her. If it had not been for this mistake, Cage is sure that the Mushroom Kingdom would belong to the "Next Gens" right now, at this very moment. But, Cage is not inconsolable. He's just fine! He's better than fine! Cage pulls a sheet of paper out of a nearby drawer and holds it up. [center][img]http://therob578.250free.com/marioiswanted.jpg[/img][/center] What drastic measures he has resorted to--sending the Resident Evil Nemesis to the Mushroom Kingdom. You know, to hunt Mario All-[b]S.T.A.R.S.[/b] Cage had, in fact, a terribly difficult time relating to the monster, because he, himself is a [i]star[/i] and the Nemesis loves hunting S.T.A.R.S. Things turned out well regardless, he thinks. The monster accepted the wanted poster willingly, only muttering "[b][i]S.T.A.R.S.[/b][/i]. Cage calms down, puts the paper away, and looks square at his reflection in the mirror. Come to think of it, he's never been a two dimensional character. He's always been three dimensional and well rounded! He's not like them at all.