James

[QUOTE=ScirosDarkblade]Nintendo made a goof-up to begin with; they deserved that much pressure and more. There's no room for senseless pride in game design, and I'm glad Miyamoto didn't continue to push with the abortion-gone-wrong that was the Wind Waker Link. [/QUOTE] [color=#811C3A]What absolute rubbish. Had Nintendo simply gone with the same artistic formula, there would be a large percentage of fans who would have said that Nintendo are resting on their laurels and not making any attempt to revitalize an ageing franchise. The problem is that Nintendo often can't win in that situation. While you may not have appreciated TWW's art design, I can tell you that I (and the several million worldwide who bought it) definitely did. I like the fact that the creators of Zelda had the balls to actually experiment with it and try something new. Afterall, experimentation was what delivered Majora's Mask -- which was an absolutely brilliant game in its own right, but which is also one of the best examples of the Zelda franchise. No question, it's a dark horse in the series...but you don't get anywhere if you're unwilling to experiment and try new ideas. To some degree, the same is true in the new Zelda. From the very little I've seen, it seems as though Nintendo may be experimenting and branching out in other ways. Without that kind of experimentation, the games remain stale and repetitive -- they never develop further. As a long time Zelda fan, that would be highly frustrating for me. My only regret is that The Wind Waker's gameplay wasn't pushed forward as much as its visuals. I didn't like the redundant fetch-quest and I felt that more dungeons were needed (so more development time was probably warranted). But do I have any qualms about a 3D Zelda that brings the gorgeous art style of A Link to the Past into a fully-realized 3D world? Absolutely not. Punishing a developer for doing that will only get you one result -- more tired, stale clones. No change, no development, no nothing. And that's really bad for everyone, whether they're a Zelda fan or not.[/color]

[color=#811C3A]In some ways I'm a bit disappointed that Nintendo is apparently buckling under the pressure so soon, but this is looking really good. It seems as though they're actually going a bit MM-esque, by creating some pretty twisted characters. And that's always good in my book (I wonder if someone from Nintendo read my Zelda RPG idea? lol :-P). Anyway, I can't wait to hear more about this game. This year's E3 will be massive, full of next generation game systems and some amazing new games. I can't wait.[/color]

[quote name='natetron46']I am by no means ridiculing you, but I would like to know, how would you classify the different markets that these fall into?[/quote] [color=#811C3A]I have gone into this before, but I'll go over it again. It's important to recognize that two systems that are "portable" are not necessarily going to deliver the same game experience, nor will they necessarily be targeted at exactly the same audience. A good example of this can already be found with home game systems. In the current generation, we've seen a greater divergence between the three major platforms (GameCube, Xbox and PlayStation 2). Where one consumer may buy PS2 based on its multimedia functions, another may buy Xbox because they want Xbox Live. These two consumers are both buying [b]games[/b], but they are still different types of consumers within the same market -- they are still looking for different experiences. The same is true with PSP and DS. Where PSP seeks to take the PlayStation brand on the road, Nintendo DS seeks to create an experience that isn't physically possible on other platforms (including GameCube). I think that people misinterpret me when I say that. I'm not intending to suggest that DS is some groundbreaking revolution that everyone needs to love. What I'm saying, is that the entire point of DS is to deliver experiences that you simply can't have on any other game system. Those experiences come via its unique hardware (touch screen and microphone in particular). PSP presents players with an experience that they are already having on PS2 -- that is, music, movie and game capability. Specifically, PSP's controller layout is the same as PS2. So, your interaction with PSP games will feel the same as what you've experienced on PS2 and other platforms. This doesn't mean that PSP won't have exclusive or unique games; but that is not my argument. My argument is that the physical experience you have on PSP is an experience you are going to be familiar with. So, PSP is much more a competitor to GBA, in terms of its design and intention. GBA itself is essentially a portable SNES. So GBA itself isn't actually creating a new type of game interaction -- it is replicating what exists in game hardware and putting it in your pocket. We have to realize that most consumers are not highly savvy "hardcore gamers". That is to say, they aren't going to go into heavy research about these systems. Most gamers will go into a store and they will choose something by looking at the back of the box, or by asking the advice of the store clerk. In the case of PSP and DS, most consumers are going to see the DS package and look at the stylus -- when they try the system out at a kiosk, they'll be using the stylus. The touch screen is the central feature of the unit. People who want that new type of feeling are going to be attracted to DS. On the other hand, people who want to play home console games on the road will be going for PSP. If you look at the games being made available for both systems, you are obviously going to see a small percentage that are ports and so on. But when you look at the exclusives, you're going to see massive differences. DS-specific games are physically unlike games for any other system available, which in itself ensures that the machine has a different type of appeal than either GBA or PSP. Whether or not this difference is a good thing or a bad thing is something that only time will tell. But the point I've been making all along is that fundamentally, DS and PSP are two quite different game systems. Their physical designs are different, the purpose behind each machine is fundamentally different and the systems are going after different consumers in general. Yes, there'll be some obvious crossover. And yes, both systems will compete for shelf visibility in retailers -- in the same way that a GBA competes for your eye's attention over an Xbox or a PS2. All of these machines are video game systems, but it's important to recognize that two video game systems are not necessarily direct competitors. In this case, we're not even talking GameCube versus Xbox (which one could argue do not directly compete most of the time, especially if you look at the demographics that both companies target). In this case we're talking about a far more stark contrast -- a traditional, next generation handheld system versus a totally new type of game system. As I said, whether that "new experience" is successful or not is anyone's guess. But I don't think DS's success will necessarily come from wrestling people away from PSP. Instead, a large amount of its success will come from attracting non-gamers, or gamers who may own a home system but who generally aren't interested in handhelds. In other words, Nintendo are not intending to draw users away from GBA or PSP specifically (as we've seen evidenced by GBA and DS sales results). I know that most people don't tend to make these distinctions, which is fair -- most people aren't in a position where they need to have an understanding of this side of the subject. However, I think that the gaming media has generally been very slow on the uptake. Some media outlets are connecting the dots correctly, though, which is good to see. I think that the results that we see over the next year will help to further underline the points I've been making here (and which others in the media have made in recent times too).[/color]

[QUOTE=Morpheus]You were right, James. The SDK is merely released on a mac G5. I doubt, though, that microsoft would release the SDK on such powerful hardware unless it is needed, so the price point still looks expensive. Here is the article: [url]http://www.theinquirer.net/?article=14407[/url][/QUOTE] [color=#811C3A]The price isn't an issue here. The technology you're talking about relates to emulation, I believe. That is to say, the system configuration that Microsoft has chosen will simulate Xenon's performance until Microsoft can deliver actual Xenon mules to the developers. In regard to power...I'm not quite sure what your point is. Of course Xenon would need powerful hardware for simulation purposes -- it is, afterall, a next generation video game system. So that implies that it is going to be significantly more powerful than current generation machines. Xenon/Xbox 2's potential problems definitely don't start or end with this piece of news, I don't think.[/color]

[QUOTE=Charles] [color=black]The DS just seems like a testing ground. Although it's completely different from the GameBoy line, I can't see Nintendo focusing on it once the successor to the GameBoy Advance launches to compete with PSP (if the PSP sells well enough to warrant any true competition, which should take quite a while considering how the market stands). Thus far the uses developers have found for the touch screen don't seem very innovative or fun. Obviously there are exceptions, but--drawing a pentagram to put the finishing touches on bosses in Castlevania DS? Looking at a track layout for Ridge Racer? No thank you. Currently, the only released title that interests me on the system is Super Mario 64 DS--and it's just a spruced up port of an aged game. The enhancements are excellent but hardly enough to carry the system at this time for me. Also, I would find it rather awkward using the touch screen on a bus or something, defeating its purpose as a handheld. [/color] [color=black] [/color] [color=black]I'd rather wait for titles like Metroid Prime: Hunters and Wario Ware. Rather than plunk down $150 I thin it'd be prudent to see how Nintendo supports it long-term. Also, I know that it'll drop in price significantly once the PSP launches despite the illusion that they're not directly competing at the moment.[/color] [color=black] [/color] [color=black]So, that initial must-buy impulse just isn't there for me. I can wait. Being wary is the best approach here.[/color][/QUOTE] [color=#811C3A]I agree, the launch lineup for DS is pretty average. But that's nothing exclusive to DS -- PS2 had a pretty poor launch lineup, as did PSP (in Japan, anyway). But the launch lineup isn't the measure of the machine, in either case. The measure is what we'll see in the first year or two. And I'm sure we'll see great games for both platforms. The thing with DS is, a [i]lot[/i] of developers have expressed great excitement over it, which has actually directly turned into development support. So while we're only seeing the very first ideas right now, we'll see more and more robust (and fun) uses for the DS's unique technology in the coming months and years. In terms of GBA 2, I have no doubt that Nintendo will continue to support DS at that point. When they say that it's a third pillar, they really aren't joking -- one could make the argument that they should focus on DS and stop supporting GBA (because DS is a "better" or "more powerful" handheld -- so why support GBA while it's out there?) But GBA sales have continued to climb, despite DS's early sales success. So I think the point I'd make (which also relates to DS versus PSP) is that where PSP and GBA are both much more like "TV game systems in your pocket", Nintendo DS is something entirely different -- it's like an offramp on the highway, so to speak. Additionally, there is no illusion that these two aren't competing -- they are certainly competing indirectly, but they are [i]not[/i] direct competitors. I can't stress that enough. I do not believe that Nintendo will need to drop the DS's price when the PSP comes out, because I think that both systems can exist in two pretty different market segments (with some obvious overlap), in the same way that GBA and DS can exist together without one automatically cannibalizing the other. I think that being wary is always the best solution though. Most people don't pick up new game systems at launch. It takes time for these systems to acquire the kind of library to justify purchase. And that's fair enough - it's the same with any system, handheld or otherwise.[/color]

[quote name='Charles']You should read IGN's diary on the PSP's battery life. I don't find it terrible considering the factors involved. When the PSP is used for other functions, such as an ipod, the longetivity of the battery is just fine. Only when playing titles more taxing to the hardware (i.e., Ridge Racers) does it suffer at all. Even then, I can't see myself playing portable games for extended periods of time on any given session. It's not as if three to four hours worth of game time is terrible.[/quote] [color=#811C3A]It's still pretty bad though. Remember that in many of these tests, they're not activing Wi-Fi or having volume/screen brightness up. Most games (if you are actually using the speakers and so on), are probably going to give you between one and two and a half hours of playing time. The games that give you more time are going to be the ones that access the UMD less frequently -- but those games are in the minority. I think the bigger issue is the type of games themselves. Most people play handheld games on the bus or train -- in other words, for relatively short bursts. Games like Gran Turismo 4 Mobile, or Dynasty Warriors (or many others you may care to name) don't lend themselves to that format. So, I think Sony is going to have to a) try to find ways around the disc access issue and b) encourage the creation of [i]handheld games[/i] rather than console games on a little screen. If Sony only try to duplicate PS2 games, PSP will have a lot of trouble. My hope is that we see more unique titles, as in, PSP-specific games. So far I'm reasonably happy with the lineup, there are a few games I'd like to get. But as I've said before, I think the whole debate is a little redundant -- we will ultimately be comparing "GBA 2" to PSP rather than DS. The PSP and DS are both very different systems, with different individual purposes. But I think much of the gaming media are still stuck in a 16-bit mindset, whereby two portable systems (where portability is the only trait they share) [i]must[/i] be in direct competition as a result. I think that concept will be shown to be massively incorrect as these two systems go through their lifespans. It's already shown to be problematic, based on some of the initial sales results (ie: the fact that DS did not cannibalize GBA SP as many expected it would).[/color]

[quote name='Bombu][color=darkred']So? What's your point? I'm saying what's on my mind. If you don't like it call the internet police.[/color][/quote] [color=#811C3A]I think the point is that nobody is necessarily trying to say that only Nintendo has influence in the industry, it's just that they have probably had the most influence of anyone. But of course, many companies have had influences to varying degrees (Microsoft included). That's my interpretation of it, anyway.[/color]

[color=#811C3A]I would have to say family. Friends come and go -- friends have never been particularly important to my life. I mean, that isn't to say that I don't value them, because I do. And I'm very fortunate to have 'em. But...I can live without constant friend contact. I can't live without family contact, though. Besides, I have three siblings and they are not only family, but they are also my very closest friends in the entire world. Without them, I think I'd be a pretty lost soul. So as long as I have them around me, I'm always feeling pretty good. ~_^[/color]

[quote name='Patronus']I'll get on that as soon as I can. I had this idea when I started the first version of it, but I wasn't and still am not sure how to pull it off. But I'll try. ^_^[/quote] [color=#811C3A]Cool. Even vague descriptions about each territory would be good -- we can probably fill in the details along the way, or something. Up to you. ^_^[/color]

[color=#811C3A]I thought I'd mention this here (though I've also mentioned it within the Inn thread too)...could you guys give us some descriptions about Gaia? As in, some more information about the geography of each region and so on? In my sign-up, I've made some basic assumptions. For example, I've said that the Nymphs live within a village in the cove (so far I'm thinking of calling it "Emerald Cove", due to the fact that the entire village sits within the canopy of the forest). This is a village that nobody on Gaia can actually find, because the forest is basically a deceptive labyrinth, in addition to the fact that the Nymph-folk themselves can manipulate it. But it'd be cool to know more about the world -- the major cities, the geography and so on. If you guys can get something like that up, it'd be very helpful. ^_^ I'm not sure if my sign-up is what you are looking for...it's more whimsical than mature, or something. However, I did want to add some variety by signing-up as one of the slightly less popular races.[/color]

[color=#811C3A]Oh, for some reason, this sparked some great ideas...now I'm tempted to do my own OB parody. Balls! Anyway, this is pretty funky (you got my face just right, by the way). And you really [i]are[/i] addicted to that song, aren't you? Not that I blame you, of course. ~_^[/color]

[size=2][b]Name:[/b] Aetheran Mandrashee [b]Age:[/b] 99 [b]Race:[/b] Nymph [b]Location:[/b] Victoria (Could we get some more detailed explanations on locations? It'd be cool to have a better idea of Gaia's form, so that we have a better knowledge of what we're referring to -- the place I've chosen is pretty random, I have no idea what the region is like). [b]Appearance:[/b] [img]http://img5.exs.cx/img5/3779/nymph6ck.jpg[/img] [b]Spells/Weapons:[/b] Nymphs are carefree creatures, unconcerned with politics and battles -- it is said that a Nymph only needs his fishing rod, his pipe and a song in his heart. Nonetheless, Nymphs are mysterious creatures. As guardians of the seasons, these mystical beings bear unique powers that fall just beyond the realm of the four elements of mages and the forged weaponry of elves and others. A Nymph's power is always based upon his friendship and connection to Mother Gaia; the variable strength of this relationship at any given time is what ultimately dictates a Nymph's capabilities. Most Nymphs are particularly aligned to specific seasons: if a Nymph is born in summer, he or she will be especially aligned to summer, with lesser powers revolving around the seasons that come [b]directly before[/b] or [b]directly after[/b] the season of birth (ie: a Summer Nymph will be most powerful during Summer and will also have special abilities in both Spring and Autumn). Aetheran is an Autumn Nymph, with abilities aligned to the seasons of [i]summer[/i] and [i]winter[/i] additionally. [b][i]Autumn (Friend of the Forest):[/i][/b] Aetheran is able to seek assistance from the majestic beings of the forest -- trees and vines in particular. This is why it is impossible to chase an Autumn Nymph through the forest, as he is able to open paths in front of him and close them in his wake. This ability is often intangible and wonderous -- at times, Aetheran can change the colour of the leaves all around him, or even cause them to fall in a veil of orange and red. At other times, he can command vines and creepers to create stairways and ladders - a particularly useful trait for a cheeky Nymph. [b][i]Summer (Friend of the Sun):[/i][/b] Aetheran's second (and less powerful) ability relates to the sun, the element that brings light and heat into the world of Gaia. The days are longer during the summer months and the Nymphs make it so. If you are in a very dark place, it is always wise to have a Friend of the Sun with you. He can bring the sun's light to the darkest corners of the globe. Of course, a Nymph with this ability is mostly interested in it for one reason: to light his pipe. [b][i]Winter (Friend of the Mountain):[/i][/b] Aetheran's third ability relates to the freezing mountain peaks, which are forever encased in snow and ice. In the world of Gaia, winter is often associated with death and isolation. In many parts, it is the most feared season. However, the wise Nymph knows that winter is a necessary part of Mother Gaia's cycle. Cooler temperatures provide welcome relief for the hottest corners of Gaia, while the blanket of snow provides cover and protection for some of Gaia's most precious winter-oriented creatures. The Friend of the Mountain can freeze water so that it can be walked upon. He can also create cool mists, which are especially useful in volcanic caverns and arid deserts (should one wish to visit such ghastly places). For a Nymph, being a Friend of the Mountain always comes in handy, especially when he wishes to cool his ale with an ice cube or two. [b]Biography:[/b] The little wooden tavern sat high among the oak's branches, overlooking the glistening sapphire bay. It was entirely empty, with one noteable exception. The Nymph known as Mandrashee had propped himself up at the bar and ordered the tallest mug of ale in the place. It was the day of the Summer Solstice and the town square was brimming with excited Nymph-folk; except for Aetheran Mandrashee. He was not feeling particularly festive. The bartender (and odd, plump fellow with two peg-legs) ambled over to Aetheran and eyed him curiously. "I say, ol' fellow, what in the name of Gaia are you doing here at this time? This is the most joyous day of the year for Nymph-folk. Even I, the most dedicated bartender in the cove, will be shutting shop early tonight. I wouldn't want to miss out on the festivities." Aetheran glanced up from his mug. A trail of froth had appeared on his moustache. "I'm afraid that I'm definitely [i]not[/i] feeling joyous," he said. "Do you know that I am exactly ninety-nine years old today?" "Oh, [i]I say![/i]" exclaimed the bartender excitedly. He frantically hobbled around the bar and gave Aetheran a hearty slap on the back. "What could possibly be depressing about that, ol' chap? Why, at the tender young age of ninety-nine, you are truly in the prime of your life! Now you can leave the cove and help with the Season Flow." Aetheran shook his head slowly. "I'm afraid not," he said. "You see...I...I..." "Yes?" "I..." "C'mon, out with it, ol' bean! While we're young!" "I failed the Flow Test." The tavern fell completely silent. So silent, in fact, that Aetheran was [i]certain[/i] he could hear the trees laughing amongst themselves. The bartender was clearly lost for words. He had never heard of a Nymph failing the Flow Test. All Nymph-folk were required to undertake the test upon reaching their ninety-ninth birthday. It took this long for Nymph to become attuned with Mother Gaia to a point where they could carry out the Season Flow. For many years, it had been assumed that the Flow Test was merely a formality, that nobody could [i]possibly[/i] fail it. The bartender simply wasn't sure whether to laugh or cry. "Well, er...there's always next time, I suppose," said the bartender quietly. Aetheran took another swig of his ale. "Nymph-folk are only given one opportunity," he said, "if I am not ready for the Season Flow now, I will never be ready." "Perhaps," the bartender began thoughtfully, "perhaps it is because you have ventured so far from this place in the past. You know that they advise against much discussion with the other folk of this world. Many of those folk have lost their way, many of them have forgotten Mother Gaia. These days, their ways involve all manner of black magic and forgery." The bartender shook his head at the thought. "But I have always been careful," Aetheran replied, "few have seen me, except for some children. But children can always see what their parents cannot; they have yet to lose their purity and innocence." "Children are still outsiders," said the bartender, striking a cautious tone. "If they knew the right paths, if they remembered which forks lead where, they would be able to see the cove and the rest of us. I do not think we have anything to fear from them," said Aetheran. The bartender shrugged. "Perhaps you're right, ol' fellow. If you cannot participate in each of the Season Flows, what ever will you do?" Aetheran stroked his beard thoughtfully. "Maybe I should travel away from the cove for a time. I have so much more to learn from Mother Gaia." Aetheran's unfortunate uniqueness was with him since his birth. From the moment he was able to walk, he became known as the most clumsy boy in the cove. It was one of several dubious honors bestowed upon him by his peers. His only refuge was in the forest surrounding the cove; it was truly a Nymph's playground. Despite Aetheran's awkwardness, he enjoyed spending time in the forest, where the hours would melt away as he discussed all manner of subjects with the forest natives (particularly the wise old trees, who were far older than the most senior of Nymphs). Despite his apparent connection to the natural world, Aetheran still managed to fail the sacred Flow Test. It was a test that signified many things for the Nymph-folk. For one, it represented the evolution of a Young Nymph into an Adult Nymph, which in turn allowed new Adult Nymphs into the world, to assist with the flow of seasons each year. As guardians of nature - particularly the sacred and delicate shift of seasons - Adult Nymphs had tremendous responsibility on their shoulders. The Flow Test was a way of ensuring that a Nymph had truly attained the strongest possible connection to Mother Gaia. Aetheran was at a complete loss to explain his failure of the test. He had [i]expected[/i] to succeed, especially considering that he had spent far more time in the forest than many of his peers. Upon failing the test (and being one of the very few Nymph-folk to ever do so), Aetheran decided to pack his supplies (a fishing rod, a pipe and a book of songs) and travel across the broad region of Victoria. [/size]

[QUOTE=Ganon6d9]Thankyou Charles. Something for me to theorise about. But whatever, that comes later. I've never seen an EB or Gamestop in my life, I live in Australia and I'm pretty sure that the demo isn't anywhere to be found over here, and I won't get the game until after March. This is why I need some kind of discussion... [/QUOTE] [color=#811C3A]I'm not sure where you live in Australia, but there are EBs all over this country. There are no less than three near my own suburb in south east Melbourne. But perhaps they're only near the major cities, I don't know. Game stores like Video Games Heaven should also have the demo (though I haven't checked, personally).[/color]

[color=#811C3A]My resolutions are to complete my online portfolio and to get my bedroom rennovated. The former is something I've only had vague ideas about up until now, while the latter is something I wanted to do last year but was never able to. But this year I finally have the opportunity, so I'm going to go for it.[/color]

[quote name='KyZeR']I dont spam.[/quote] [color=#811C3A]What ze devil? o_O Ahem. Yeah, I think everyone's pretty much answered this question. I think I need to create an enormous message on OB that points to the rules page. Basically, we pretty much describe what we view as spam there. Other forums have different rules about spam, but yeah, to each his own.[/color]

[color=#811C3A]Welcome to OB, Vigaku. Please ensure that you check our rules page, on the left navigation menu. We have some fairly specific rules surrounding thread creation at OB. Basically, we prefer it if people actually choose a specific topic to discuss when creating new threads. I'm sure that the rules will explain everything pretty thoroughly though -- they provide advice as to how new threads should be created in various places on the site. Again, welcome. I hope you enjoy the place, once you settle in. ^_^[/color]

[QUOTE=ZeroAnime]yes that is true i dont care about anyone but myself. and its better to never luv because u dont feel the pain and nobody can hold your luved one hostage in exchange for your life. Oh and one of my friends is among the missing she was on holiday in Thailand. emotions r mankinds creation, not nature. and i hav no emotions. MistressRoxie u hav a very caring heart that is good, dont change. :) :) i tried to have emotions but could not. i will do the right thing but dont care. but just the same i can do the wrong thing and not care.[/QUOTE] [color=#811C3A]Ahh yes. At the grand, ripe old age of fourteen, you know all about emotions and the ways of the world. Right? [i]Puh-lease[/i]. Get over yourself, drop the teenage angst act and then maybe you'll be welcome to these discussions. When you consider the enormous size of this disaster, and the concept that many millions of people are currently suffering as a result (both directly and indirectly), it's absolutely callous to start talking in such a way. People are seriously hurting and they need help, not a big, fat, idiotic dose of teenage angst. It's pleasing to see more and more people come aboard with the aid, though. Coca-Cola is going to be providing shipments of fresh water, Starbucks has donated $100,000 and various other businesses across the world are coming to the table. Some of it is a bit weak, but it all counts. Also, just to be clear, Aceh is a north-western Indonesian province, not an Indian province. I just want to clarify that to avoid confusion (as Indonesia has suffered the brunt of the disaster so far).[/color]

[QUOTE=Morpheus] Do you know what Microsoft's Dev kit for XBOX 2 is? A high power, $1,500 Mac G5. I don't see them cutting losses with that kind of money.[/QUOTE] [color=#811C3A]Erm, where did you get that information from? lol A Mac G5 isn't the "development kit". Do you know what an SDK consists of? Right now, developers won't be operating from the hardware itself -- they'll be using emulators based on performance targets/benchmarks for Xenon. Bear in mind that these developers [i]already[/i] have high-end computers -- most of them are using SGi workstations, which are far more expensive than a $1,500 Mac G5. If they only needed a G5, they'd be pretty happy -- the workstations that developers use generally cost upwards of $10,000USD and carry multiple processors. [i]So[/i], the whole Mac G5 thing is erroneous for a variety of reasons there. Secondly, the workstation itself isn't what contributes to the ultimate cost -- many developers will use the same workstations for a variety of platforms. What matters is the SDK itself and how complicated the hardware and middleware tools are. I doubt that Xenon/Xbox 2 will feature a difficult toolset, considering that the first generation Xbox was driven by well-known components (like Direct X, for example). The architecture will probably be easier for developers to grasp, rather than tougher. And sure, Halo is the big seller on Xbox. But don't assume that Xbox relies on that one game. lol Xenon's success will be centered around the continued rollout of Xbox Live and, to a lesser extent, a new version of Xbox Live that may feature further entertainment features.[/color]

[color=#811C3A]Who on earth have you been listening to, Morpheus? lol The PSP screen doesn't scratch particularly easily. In fact, you pretty much need to knife the thing to get some decent scratches in it. The biggest problem with PSP is finger marks. In addition, Microsoft's loss of money on Xbox is no real indication of whether they'll lose money on Xbox 2. You have to remember a couple of things. Firstly, Xbox 2 uses new hardware -- chances are, Microsoft might be able to incur a smaller percentage loss on Xbox 2 as a result of new hardware partners. Additionally, much of Microsoft's Xbox losses relate to Xbox Live. Xbox Live isn't exactly a massive success, but it's in a better position now than it was when it began. So, Microsoft will obviously continue it for Xbox 2. By default (due to the number of Xbox Live subscribers already in place), Microsoft will be losing less money on that service. So, I think they will be in a better position, but that's not to say that they'll suddenly become hugely profitable.[/color]

[color=#811C3A]But let's be careful not to cast the PSP in the wrong light too much here. I mean, the dead pixel issue is also a problem on Nintendo DS -- that is to say, on both platforms it's pretty rare. I haven't heard of any mass problems with dead pixels on either platform. In regard to the other concerns, you can bet that Sony will remedy some of them for release outside Japan (and for future Japanese shipments). The UMD firing thing is a [i]really[/i] serious problem, so I think Sony will have to fix it. If they don't, well...that would simply be crazy. lol Some of the other areas might be problematic (particularly the music playing features), but in general I think PSP has a pretty good chance of success. But I do believe that a lot of people are overrating it -- it's definitely worth pointing out platforms like Nomad and Sega Game Gear (Game Gear was way ahead of its time, technologically, but that didn't help it defeat Game Boy). PSP will obviously have to be pushed hard to overcome GBA SP (and to a lesser extent, DS). I just wonder how high the volume has to be until Sony can make a profit.[/color]

[color=#811C3A]I think that the most memorable event this year would have to have been the launch of Version 7. We had some teething problems during the first day or so, but it all got ironed out pretty quickly. And here we are, almost a year later, still on the same version. I remember a few people who said "you'll probably just change versions again in two weeks". Hah! ~_^ 2005's going to be another big year for our community; there are a few very cool changes coming down the pipeline. [/color]

[color=#811C3A]Okay, here we go. I'm going to list those who did and didn't get in. For those that didn't, I'll just briefly explain why. Also, I thought I'd add an "in question" bit, for people who may still get in if they change something in their sign-up that I'm a bit concerned about. So if you're in that category, it's your choice whether you make a change or choose not to. ^_^ [b]Accepted:[/b] Legacy [[b]Ronin[/b]] Ohkami [[b]Sakura[/b]] Alan [[b]Jester[/b]] Zidargh [[b]Ranger[/b]] Wondershot [[b]Caduceo[/b]] Kane [[b]Mirage[/b]] SaiyanDestroya [[b]Typhoon[/b]] Baron Samedi [[b]Red Baron[/b]] Shinje [[b]Spyder[/b]] (Shinje, take note about dates. The year that this RPG takes place in is [b]2510 A.D.[/b] [b]In Question:[/b] Neuvoxetere [[b]Zero[/b]]: The concern I had here was regarding the AVC transformation. Transformations like this really don't exist in the current Maverick Hunters world. So that would have to be eliminated and replaced with something else. Also, it might be a good idea to ensure that the Ghost ability isn't too invincible (in terms of destroying almost anything). If these things can be altered and corrected, then I'll probably accept your sign-up. Asim [[b]Dreamer[/b]]: I generally like your sign-up, but I have a couple of qualms. First and foremost, human beings are physically inferior to Reploids, regardless of training. They can definitely posess better tactical knowledge or something, but by design (by nature of their human bodies), they are physically inferior. It is unlikely that a human being would have fought against Mavericks or the Protogen, given that the world's human military force itself was pretty impotent in terms of facing that force. Thus the whole reason for the Maverick Hunters to exist. So, I like having the idea of humans in X-Hunters, but...in all honesty, there are some serious factual issues that your post kinda exaggerates (the primary one being human strength, but also the whole question why this guy would join a force that involves Reploids, if his entire family has not liked them from day one). So yeah. If those bits can be replaced by something a bit more in-line with my thoughts here, that'd be cool. Up to you though. [b]Edit:[/b] Erm, I'm not sure what you've edited. Your sign-up still contains all of the problems that I mentioned above. :-\ [b]Not-So-Accepted:[/b] Sheikahmon [[b]Snowflake[/b]]: I kinda liked your sign-up, and maybe it would work really well with another RPG. But it's a bit too outlandish for Maverick Hunters I think. It sounds like your character belongs in an asylum rather than a para-military organization (I don't mean that as an insult, I think your character would be ideal for another type of RPG -- just not this one. ~_^) Thanks again to everyone for signing-up, I really really appreciate your effort. I welcome people to make changes to their sign-ups if they are in the in question list. Sheikahmon, you can submit an entirely new sign-up if you want, but that's up to you. I'll only keep this open for a couple more days though, so be on your toes. ~_^ Alright. I'll be starting this soon. Thanks to all who have signed-up. Also, please note that sign-ups are now [b]closed[/b]. I think we've got the right number of people here.[/color]

[color=#811C3A]Welcome to OB, yahiko. If you'd like to make e-cards, you'll need to go to [url]www.myotaku.com[/url] and register there. Once you've done that, you can visit [url]http://greetings.theotaku.com[/url] to submit your own greetings. Please ensure that you use the Suggestions & Feedback forum for any further questions, as per our rules page (located on the left navigation menu).[/color]

[color=#811C3A]There have been quite a few companies who have had strong impacts on gaming. But I think that Nintendo has unquestionably had the largest. As mentioned, without Nintendo, we wouldn't be talking about PlayStation or Xbox today. Nintendo developed a model through which the home console industry could thrive -- a far more effective model than the one pioneered by Atari. But Atari's failure was largely the result of its sale to Warner Bros. Had the original founder not sold it, I doubt the market would have collapsed as it did. That's a big statement, but Warner Bros. took Atari in a very different direction and they ignored the talents of many of the company's most talented game designers (which prompted them to leave and form their own company: Activision). Nintendo's impact is all over everything though -- from setting the standards in particular genres (platforming in particular), to the invention of various hardware designs that became industry standards (invention of the D-Pad, introduction of the analog control stick). So I think we've discovered the answer. However, there are so many companies who have had an impact. Sega, for example, had a massive impact on the very first polygon-based games, with games like Virtua Fighter. Virtua Fighter also had a lasting impact on just about all 3D fighters that have come since. Sega also had an impact in other areas, particularly in arcade game design. Just about all of their mid-90's work (Sega Rally, Dayonta USA, House of the Dead, Scud Racer) really became arcade staples. Then you've got Sega's other creations -- from Sonic the Hedgehog to their weird and wonderful Dreamcast library (Jet Set Radio, Seaman, Space Channel 5, etc). I think Sega are very like Nintendo in terms of their innovation. And I think they've had a consistently positive impact on game design over the last fifteen years or so. But yeah, there are so many companies that have played an important role in establishing standards and benchmarks.[/color]

[color=#811C3A]The next generation is just another example of how Nintendo and the other companies are diverging. Nintendo isn't freebasing anything; they're just trying to make Revolution live up to its name. Don't assume that you won't be able to play fighting games on their next home console simply due to the lack of a D-Pad; bear in mind that Nintendo are not necessarily replacing it with "another stick". I guarantee, they are working on some unique control input technologies for Revolution. Anyway, I have a simple answer to your question. The answer is [i]none[/i]. I don't think that any of the next generation systems will "fail". The market is now large enough to accommodate a myriad of competitors on various fronts. However, PSP perpetuates some slightly nasty industry trends (focus on visuals and existing gameplay ideas, pushing up development costs, software penetration issues). However, I don't think PSP itself will fail -- but it will put pressure on the forces that are on their way to driving a market collapse. Still, I'll be buying as many of these new systems as I can, I think. The differences in the next generation will be far more apparent than the differences in the current generation (ie: Revolution will be to Xbox 2 and PS3 what DS is to PSP -- that is, it won't seek to directly compete but will instead tread its own path).[/color]