James

[font=arial]As far as I know it's legal in many places. It's certainly legal here, although it's semi-regulated I think. So the idea of it being illegal is alien to me, lol. I don't agree or disagree with it, personally. If people want to do it/use the service...it really has nothing to do with me. lol[/font]

[font=arial]Definitely some interesting results there. It's nice to see that we grabbed some votes somewhere out there on the Internet. I also like the OtakuBoards Clone, it's one of those funny little things that will always be remembered in the future. Cool stuff.[/font]

[quote]second. No random Battles...Okay... Third... The battle system... I HATE IT WITH A PASSION fourth.. the gambits....what the hell is this for?[/quote] [font=arial]You don't like the lack of random battles? I really thought that random battles were one of the most annoying aspect of the previous games (especially the frequency with which they would occur at times - sometimes you couldn't walk one single step without getting dragged into a repetitive battle). The battle system will largely come down to personal opinion, but have you played very far into the game? Gambits are brilliant. They will end up being a necessary (or at least, important) part of your strategy. They make the battle system easier in many ways, rather than forcing the player to constantly micro-manage.[/font]

[QUOTE=Adam]I think the AE Boards' Otakupedia entry gives Rick WAYYY too much credit with regard to his theOtaku contributions. Rick was never an important staff member and his writing abilities were awful. We had other reviews up there by other members, including myself, and I never thought that erasing his contributions was a big loss. It probably took me more time to EDIT his reviews than he took to write them. I didn't even post a few because the writing was so bad. In fact, I don't think Rick was even around when we launched a dedicated review site. He had sent reviews to add as supplementary to our hubs. We had a lot of important team members during that period, including Shy and Syk, who helped built the IMPORTANT parts of our hubs, but Rick was way way way below that level. Rick was a nice guy, but yes, a bit crazy. I think it's more accurate to say that he was a minor staff member on theOtaku who submitted a bunch of poorly-written reviews and then went mad. I don't remember how we severed ties, but it wasn't some big dramatic ending.[/QUOTE] [font=arial]I'm often providing these types of clarifications to certain OB-related events too, haha. From an outside point of view things can seem far more dramatic than they really are. I'm not sure where Charles is at the moment but he's our Otakupedia guru, so he will be able to update/edit the article with your submission. Oh, while I'm here...Adam, if you get time, you should write up a submission about theOtaku.com's origin. You will be able to add plenty of detail and I think it'd be cool to talk about theOtaku.com's takeover of Absolute Sega and stuff. We need a good meaty theOtaku-based entry on Otakupedia. ^_^[/font]

Welcome to Otaku Lounge. Here you can discuss anything from relationships to the day's headlines, but remember to bear these few things in mind: [b]Site Rules[/b] The OtakuBoards site rules apply here, the same as everywhere else, and are expected to be followed. [url="http://www.otakuboards.com/rules.php?"]Click here to read them.[/url] [b]Intro Threads[/b] Generally speaking we discourage introduction threads. These threads are not against the rules but we would prefer members to post directly in existing threads. Moderators are able to deal with introduction threads at their discretion. [b]Quality and Content[/b] OtakuBoards emphasizes quality discussion in its threads. To meet the site's standards, make sure your posts are clear and have a point that adds to the conversation. Also, use of proper spelling and grammar is important. Threads that don't spark conversation should generally be avoided. Search threads, asking where to find something, are one example; simply use Google instead. Favorite threads, asking what people's favorite whatever is, are another and are only permitted if reasons are given for people's choices.

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[center][size="7"]How to Request[/size][/center] If you are wanting to create a request based on a specific anime/game/etc, it is important to name your thread appropriately. "Bleach Avatar/Banner Request" is better than "new avatar plz", for instance, or you could add "[RPG]" in the thread title to specify that you're looking for imagery for a Theater production. Specifying the franchise you want in the thread title is the fastest way to get the imagery you're looking for. Also, make your own thread for your own request. Don't take over somebody else's thread with your request. [b]Specifics and Detail[/b] Please be as specific as you can when it comes to requesting avatars and banners (or any image, for that matter). Artists are more likely to help you out if you can be more specific - [i]especially[/i] if you can attach some pictures that they can work with. [b]Restrictions[/b] Please remember OB's image size restrictions for avatars and banners. Avatars: 150x80 pixels Banners: 600x200 pixels [b]Fulfilling a Request[/b] If you create a banner, avatar or other artwork for someone, please post that art in the thread where it was requested - [b]do not[/b] create a new thread to post art. [b]Useful Tips[/b] If you want a specific artist to create something for you, please PM them or use another contact option (email, IM, etc). Do not create a request in this forum directed at only one artist. And of course, courtesy is key. You're more likely to get what you want if you're polite to other members. This goes for art creators too - getting frustrated and angry at requesters will only cause problems. As always, respecting others is key.

[quote name='Sandy']The prince's name is Rasler, it's mentioned right there at the beginning. ;D Eh, just so I'm not merely spamming, I'll provide a few good images that can be used in the making.[/quote] [font=arial]Yeah I figured that might be the case, haha. Figures I'd forget it as soon as they name him![/font] [quote=sandy] I'm not going to do it myself, because all I can do is crop and resize pictures - you'll surely want some special effects to your avatar... ;D[/QUOTE] [font=arial]Nah the whole idea was for a member to create it. Nothing special is needed.[/font]

[font=arial]I'm looking for a Final Fantasy XII avatar, although I'm not really entirely sure what I want. It can have one of three characters: Vaan, Basch or the prince who gets married at the beginning of the game (I don't know his name, I'm not too far in at the moment). All I want is the standard size with a regular 1 pixel black border. See how you go. ^_^;;[/font]

[font=arial]Okay so I played just a [i]bit[/i] more two nights ago (didn't play at all last night) and I actually died, haha. I was exploring the area outside the dungeon when the party is arrested (and where you acquire Basch as a guest). I have to say though...it wasn't frustrating. Some of these dungeon crawling areas in past FF games have really annoyed me, but I had no problems with XII. Now that I'm using the Gambit system more and experimenting with changing party leaders and such, it's all becoming a lot more engaging. The story does start a bit slow but nevertheless I'm finding it enjoyable. It certainly doesn't grip you immediately like Final Fantasy VII did, but I can sense a strong progression already...it's all moving in the right direction and I'm looking forward to the twists and turns.[/font]

[QUOTE=TherapySessions] If people are thick enough to drive while they're on drugs or get hammered all the time when they're about to give birth to a child I don't think it means that others should suffer at their stupidity and risk prison terms over what is essentially a victimless crime.[/QUOTE] [font=arial]While I do think that the laws have to be able to cover those who can't look after themselves (for obvious reasons), I [i]somewhat[/i] agree with the general sentiment. Anyone can say "drugs are harmful". So is tobacco, so is drinking, so is riding very fast down a hill on your bike. Ultimately I don't think it's a question of the harmfulness of the substance - it's a question of whether or not that substance can be used safely and responsibly. If it can...well, that doesn't necessarily mean it should be legalized. On the other hand, I do think adults should be able to make decisions for themselves about responsible consumption. Illegal drugs in general are certainly not representative of "victimless crimes". Unfortunately there [i]are[/i] many irresponsible users out there and unfortunately there are some drugs that are incredibly addictive to the point of being highly detrimental. The result of this is fairly obvious - large groups of users turn to stealing and so on in order to fund their habit. Is this the fault of the drug itself? For a highly addictive substance, I think the mere presence of the drug is a problem. And of course, it's the user who faces the ultimate responsibility. But having said that, we can always sit back and say "oh it's the user and it's their fault, leave them to it". Unfortunately that just doesn't work - it doesn't work for the affected communities and it does nothing to help the users themselves (nor does it do anything to quash a violent and corrupt trade). So the issues are certainly not black and white. A simple "drugs are bad" message really doesn't begin to cover it. On the other hand, I don't think we can have an attitude of "anyone can do what they want" either...neither attitude completely covers what is a relatively complex situation. And guys...honestly, it's just a discussion. No need for personal attacks. How passionate you are about the subject is irrelevant; it is always important to treat others with respect. Please don't forget that.[/font]

[font=arial]Geeze, I am amazed at how you guys can do hours in one sitting! Haha. I'm still only about three hours in...I've had a couple of small doses. I have just acquired Balthier and Fran and I've just recently learned about Gambits for the first time. Everything that's been said here about Gambits is true and then some; these things are fantastic! They work so well with the more "freestyle" battle system. Obviously having only just discovered them I still have plenty to see...but I am [i]loving[/i] this system already. I am really going to enjoy fiddling with character stats and such as the game progresses, I'm sure. So far, so good.[/font]

[font=arial]I just think you have to be careful not to impose yourself on others - as long as you watch that, it shouldn't be an issue. Being anti-drugs is totally fine and everyone has the right to make that decision...and there is no harm informing people about the dangers of drugs. I just think people generally don't appreciate being told what they "must" or "have to" do. It really boils down to personal responsibility once again.[/font]

[font=arial]When you say the computer doesn't have all the answers, are you talking about the Internet? I don't think anyone here would debate that drugs (both legal and illegal) can have serious negative effects on a person's health. In my view that is almost a non-issue. I think the question is really more specifically about whether or not people will tolerate drug use in any form (even if it responsible use is factored into the equation). There are some people who will disapprove of drugs and alcohol regardless, but there are others (like me) who feel that it comes down to the individual and the specific circumstances. Also it depends how far you take the word "drug". I assume you mean "illegal drugs". But even legal drugs - probably most commonly legal drugs - can cause huge negative impacts on society. I'd venture to say that alcohol has been a factor in far more domestic violence than any hard illegal drug, for example. So there are various ways to look at the issue.[/font]

[font=arial]NIKI, there's no need to get upset about it. I think you should be proud that this thread has spurred a lively discussion that really hasn't gone downhill...the thread is on a good run, don't drag it down at this point. That'd be a big shame.[/font]

[font=arial]To answer the question posed by the OP, no, I don't disagree with drinking and drugs. I tend to think that drugs (both legal and illegal) are relatively neutral things. By that I mean, it's easy to "blame drugs" or "blame drinking" and we always seem to have this habit of avoiding personal responsibility. If I'm going to blame [i]anyone[/i] for drug or alcohol abuse, I would definitely blame the abuser. There are always grey areas with these sorts of things though. My general feeling is "everything in moderation". If you want to consume a substance (whether legal or illegal), it is up to you to do so in a responsible manner. And if you [i]aren't[/i] responsible, well...you have to really ensure that you are doing harm only to yourself and nobody else. Afterall, others haven't made the choice to participate. I think this is as true with alcohol as it is with any other drug/substance. It's possible to be responsible and to consume in moderation, with a reasonable understanding of one's own limits. As far as the morality aspect goes...I would agree with Nerdsy. I don't find drugs to be "immoral" - drugs themselves are neutral. The immorality comes in when people steal to access drugs and so on. But immorality and drugs need not go hand-in-hand without question; as I said above, responsible use of almost any drug (including alcohol) is absolutely possible and I have no issues with responsible use. Edit: Having said all of the above, it would be worth noting that nobody should assume drugs are harmless or that they do not have significant involvement in many of society's ills. However, as I said...I don't think drugs themselves are necessarily to blame all the time - it's just too easy to scapegoat and ignore personal responsibility. [/font]

[font=arial]I just bought this game yesterday so I'm still ridiculously early on [spoiler]haven't yet broken into the palace, for example[/spoiler]. But I'm loving it so far, although there are still a few elements that I need to get used to. I don't think I'll post my thoughts just yet, as it's so early in the game. I will say two things though. One, I am [i]loving[/i] the battle system. I still don't fully understand it (obviously), but I love where it's going. Fantastic stuff. I really hope this sets a new standard for Final Fantasy games. And two...the voice acting! I was quite surprised at how significantly Square Enix has improved both the dialogue and the voice acting in XII; it is [i]so[/i] much better than FFX. I rarely want to block out a character's voice, which is one of the highest compliments I can give for a game (especially as I'm not a huge fan of voice acting in general with RPGs). Also, the general presentation is absolutely superb. The on-screen indicators, the map, the warning tones...everything is just so thoughtfully presented. The way the map includes icons/explanations and "x marks the spot" points is wonderful. It just seems that there was so much more thought put into this game than was put into FFX. I do have one early question though (and this may be covered in later tutorials anyway): [spoiler]With battles...does it matter how much I run around and such? I mean, does it make any difference to the battle? If I'm further from an opponent or if I'm attacking from a certain side...does the game recognise that? I assume some later enemies might make more use of the 3D battle environment, but it hasn't seem to have made a tangible difference thusfar.[/spoiler][/font]

[font=arial]The question I have is - and this may have been covered to some extent already - does your friend actually want more independence? Quite often people who live very sheltered upbringings simply don't know any different. The shock only hits them when they get out into the real world and realize how poorly-equipped they are to deal with a variety of circumstances. If she's aware that she is being sheltered and if she wants to get out of that situation, there are probably a few things she can do. The first and most obvious thing would be to pursue some sort of work, even on a part time or casual basis. Having her own financial resources will help her to be more independent and responsible - it will also give her an opening to other things (alternative accommodation at some point, for example). Ultimately if your friend wants to remove herself from that situation, it can only happen under her own steam - as long as she knows she has friends who support her, she should be fine. I'm sure it will happen sooner or later.[/font]

[font=arial]I think most Turkish people are Muslim, aren't they? Arabic is pretty prevalent in Turkey.[/font]

[font=arial]I don't think life would be all that different if I were female...at least in terms of grooming and such. I don't really think it comes down to a male/female thing. I mean...I am fairly particular about personal hygiene and clothing for example. I often update my clothes (money and time allowing) and I pay particular attention to what I wear at work. I am always wearing cologne (my two current favourites being Issey Miyake Blue and Kenzo Air). And I shower at least once per day - if I've had a very rough or busy day, I will also have a quick shower when I get home (especially in summer!) I am sure that perceptions of me would be different if I were female, but it's very hard to judge how they would be different...or [i]who[/i] would have that different perception. I have always grown up around powerful women and I work in a company that is run pretty much entirely by women. So I have never viewed women differently from men in general, especially in terms of professional capability and so on - this is probably evidenced by the number of female staff we have had on OB over the years.[/font]

[font=arial]Yep, I've always pronounced it as "highlian", if that makes sense.[/font]

[font=arial]I think there are a lot of interesting aspects to this discussion. I have found that although there are negatives to online communication, I have also noticed a few surprising positives - things that I really hadn't thought about before. For example, we sometimes see threads on OtakuBoards where people are asking for advice or help (sometimes related to fairly serious issues). Although these threads are sometimes questionable in terms of their authenticity, I do believe plenty of them are legitimate. Some members who have had trouble at home or at school (and who maybe don't have many "real life" people to talk to) have told me that discussing their problems with our community has helped them a lot. Sure, nothing said here could ever replace real counselling or professional advice...but if it helps, it's good. And I have come across plenty of people who simply aren't very social in real life, or who are quite isolated in terms of friends and family. For them, OB (and other online communities) have become places where they can express themselves - whether it's a discussion, or sharing artwork or participating in an event...I've been told by quite a few people that this has been good for them. It makes them feel involved and part of something, where they may not have that kind of positive group interaction at home or school. So I do see a lot of positives with online communication, despite the obvious problems that are often repoted in the media (such as predators, scams and so on). Few media outlets discuss the benefits of online interaction.[/font]

[font=arial]Ahh. But aren't the Maverick Hunters also reploids? So I'm not sure why one group fights the other...unless one group are actually mavericks. I'm probably not making much sense out of any of this, haha. I have become so wound up in the old Maverick Hunter RPGs that I am now not at all familiar with the games themselves.[/font]

[font=arial]I think very few people talk about large amounts of members being excluded. This is because [i]most[/i] members (of those who are active on the site, anyway) do contribute in one way or another. I mean, the number of members on the site has always gone up and down...but the number of great posts I see is always encouraging. This is definitely why I like Nifty Fifty. It's an event that often does reward the lesser-known members, or at least, the members who aren't typically associated with "OB stardom" (whatever that is). I think it's always a good idea to view staff members as "members" who are simply being asked to contribute above and beyond what they normally do. I have never chosen a staff member based on perceived popularity - in fact, a lot of older members haven't liked some of my choices in the past (as evidenced by "The Complaint", where I was told that it isn't appropriate to hire someone after only a few weeks of membership - no matter how good or bad that member actually is). Most of our members are [i]far[/i] from idiots. It's just the vocal few who manage to steal the spotlight one too many times. Unfortunately the quieter (and often better) members are obscured as a result of that.[/font]

[font=arial]It's ironic that those of you who posted about Adahn dedicated most of your comments to him rather than the subject of the thread. Whether you like Adahn's way of posting or not, at least he has generally kept within the scope of the thread. Anyway, my role here is obvious and I won't bore everyone with the details, but I will say that my activity here lately hasn't been what I'd like (this is mostly due to work and such). When I do come here, it's mostly just to read - I like to see what people think about a variety of issues and I also like to look at members' creative works. So I do check up on that sort of thing all the time, whether I'm posting or not. I also like to keep in touch with the members in general...some of you I know really well and some of you I only know a little. I would like to know all of you a whole lot more, especially if time permitted. For the time being I just have to be satisfied that I have [i]some[/i] time to watch over the site - it's great to see how things change and how people grow, even on a message board.[/font]