It's been sometime since I last did one of these, well months to be exact. I guess I fell out of the swing of doing it, or perhaps it was the lack of something to say.
Life has been up and down in the meantime, nothing major. There are people far worse out there than myself. So I won't even contemplate attempting to group myself in with people like that.
I've said this before, but things need to change, and I think mentally I'm prepared to make things change. Which in itself is somewhat of a break through, breaking past the comfort zone and stepping beyond into the unknown. I think this is something we can all relate to, the uncomfortable nature of the unknown.
I think in a way I'm to lazy and if I wasn't I could of been a much better person than I am, but thats for another time.
In the gap since my last blog rant lets try to think of some of the things that I've enjoyed in the mean time.
Sherlock: Utterly brilliant all three episodes were some of the best TV I've seen. An if you didn't see it, why not? Thou it does leave me wishing I had half his skill an interlect.
Dexter: I'm a bit of a late starter here. I've heard people for ages speaking about how good it is. I've just never had the time to even look into it, and finally had a gap of nothing to watch. So thought I'd give it a go. I simply fell in love with it from the first episode, why? Well simply because I can actually understand an relate to Dexter. In that we share similar views on things, no I don't go around killing people don't worry....thou there was that time I did want to kill....no, I'm joking.
Perhaps its not just myself, which is where the shows popularity comes from. Its the narration from the show, the disclosure of Dexters most inner thoughts, an his analysing and rationalising what it is he does that makes him so appealing.
Shooting Stars: I've utterly enjoyed the latest series. So much so its been one of my high lights of the week. Not a single episode that didn't have me laughing hard. Was sad to see no George Dawes but utterly love Angelos. Not sure what it is that cracks me up, his interesting clothes, his disjointed hand movements, his strange way of talking. Either way it all adds up to be a hilarious character that defo deserves its place on the show. (Sure as hell beats the fat unfunny man this is Johnny Vegas)
Anyway thats enough for a minute, I'm sure I'll think of something else. In the meantime I have a little project that I'm working on in the meantime. So keep your eyes peeled here for the future updates.
Thursday 19 August 2010
Monday 28 June 2010
World cup exit
So England crash out of the World Cup, it wasn't exactly a surprise. I had been saying to everyone that I thought it was going to be a Germany win, and sometimes it pains to be right.
Now I'm no football expert by any means but two things were annoying. Firstly the disallowed goal, I can't see why video technology isn't allowed in Football. When its so present in many other forms of sports, Tennis, Rugby, Motorsport. An is used fairly to establish clear cut results. So why football one of, if not the biggest sport in the world is so behind in not using it.
The excuse is money....utter rubbish. If matches are filmed for telly the technology is already there, an so someone sitting behind a screen in contact with the on pitch referee surely can't be any more difficult. It just reeks of blind madness in this day an age.
As for England we were shocking from the first game. What gets me is that we play players based on their club reputation when time and time again at international level they don't work. We need to ignore club reputation and forge a team of people who are gifted but have the ability to work solidly as a team.
Just look at some of the lesser national teams in the world cup who has performed well. Someone like New Zealand didn't have world class top players, but what they had definitely over England is a sense of discipline, control and above all else a team bond to each other. To work as a unit, a game of football isn't played by one person, its a group who need to bond.
So if it was me, I'd begin to forge a team that works as a "Team" many of our currently crop of players are going to be to old to make it to the next world cup, so for some its the perfect time to forge this new breed. Or else I'll continue feeling that England will never win a world cup again in my life time.
Now I'm no football expert by any means but two things were annoying. Firstly the disallowed goal, I can't see why video technology isn't allowed in Football. When its so present in many other forms of sports, Tennis, Rugby, Motorsport. An is used fairly to establish clear cut results. So why football one of, if not the biggest sport in the world is so behind in not using it.
The excuse is money....utter rubbish. If matches are filmed for telly the technology is already there, an so someone sitting behind a screen in contact with the on pitch referee surely can't be any more difficult. It just reeks of blind madness in this day an age.
As for England we were shocking from the first game. What gets me is that we play players based on their club reputation when time and time again at international level they don't work. We need to ignore club reputation and forge a team of people who are gifted but have the ability to work solidly as a team.
Just look at some of the lesser national teams in the world cup who has performed well. Someone like New Zealand didn't have world class top players, but what they had definitely over England is a sense of discipline, control and above all else a team bond to each other. To work as a unit, a game of football isn't played by one person, its a group who need to bond.
So if it was me, I'd begin to forge a team that works as a "Team" many of our currently crop of players are going to be to old to make it to the next world cup, so for some its the perfect time to forge this new breed. Or else I'll continue feeling that England will never win a world cup again in my life time.
Monday 31 May 2010
I'm going to find a happy....I'm going to find a happy place
I'm finding myself fascinated by ancient Greece, more so by the myths and legends of the Greek gods. I think its come from playing the brilliant "God of war" game trilogy which I have played all 3 back to back of. I've found myself in love with this game, simple for the story. I love playing it just to further the story.
An the character of Kratos is a brilliant play on the Greek myths, and I like fictional stories that fill in blanks and unknown elements of history.
I'm now adding it to my list of things I want to learn more on. If I could have any superpower I think I would now choose the ability to stop time. Just so I could stop and use the frozen time to read books an such, a way to catch up on things. There is so much I don't know an want to learn that I simply don't have the time to do it. Still its not possible but if it were that be my choice.
Anyway so I'm after a book or several that tell all the Greek story myths. Its interesting thou where did they call come from in the first place? an then when did they stop believing in these stories? Was it like Christianity and other religions that came along and made them just think "This is silly" and swap? I don't get it, anyone know what happened to these believes?
*
After a 2/3 year wait the new Katie Melua album is out Woo! However upon first few listens, I only thinks its ok. I'm hoping its going to grow on me the more I listen an learn the tracks. Its not grabbed me as much as the last album did. I think its because there are a lot of slower tempo songs, but the faster songs are brilliant. I still believe "The flood" is one of the best tracks she's ever done which got me excited for the album. So far been a little under whelmed.
A first listen is always the most exciting but I have to be happy with this now for the next 3 years. I'm just glad I've got new stuff to listen to, and then at the end of the year I'll be seeing her live. Can't bloody wait, in the meantime I hope it grows on me and I end up loving the album
*
Its been a week or so now, and I've needed time to absorb and mourn the ending of Ashes to Ashes. I was happy with the final ever episode, it answered enough questions for me. I'm just utterly heart broken its the end and no more Gene Hunt. I wasn't as utterly shocked by the last episode, I think its because I'd worked elements out for myself an a few things that just sunk into place for me. Also looking back the trail for the episode didn't help as I think it did spoil a few elements, but guess didn't know it was going to. People that make such trails should be a little more careful with what they show thou, I'm sure its a fine balance.
Still it was a sad ending an I'm sad to see the end of it. I'll just have to make do with the boxsets and watching them forever now.
*
(Maybe spoilers ahead)
I'm finding myself a little at odds with Doctor Who. I mean I like it, and I'm enjoying the show. I'm just not finding myself utterly excited about it ever week like I used to. I like the Doctor, and I like Amy. However that is where the problem lies, I "Like" them and not "Love" them. I mean I utterly loved the 10th Doctor, his assistants and many of the episodes.
I cried when Rose was lost to the other dimension, I was heart broken at what happened to Donna. I cried floods of tears when 10 died, it was a super sad emotional finale episode. I'm just not feeling the same level of love for the new doctor.
Like this week "Rory" died (did he?, really thou?) I felt nothing for his death. One I felt it was coming for a few episodes now, and secondly the way in which he died was pointlessly crap.
He pushed the doctor out of the way to save him, getting shot in the process. Right great, however he seemed to push the doctor out the way, before the shot was even fired, an then he got shot. So she couldn't of just I dunno re-targetted the doctor before firing? Pointless.
I'm not sure what it is, I think its basically the new doctor who series feels different and doesn't have the same level of emotional depth like the old ones did. Not sure if I can put my finger on it yet....did I feel this way with the first season of 10? I can't seriously remember, so perhaps its something I have to relearn to love again.
I mean even confidential has become less interesting an boring. This week, them on the who tour, right brilliant. Not that fussed, I'd rather they talked more about the episode to be honest.
An the character of Kratos is a brilliant play on the Greek myths, and I like fictional stories that fill in blanks and unknown elements of history.
I'm now adding it to my list of things I want to learn more on. If I could have any superpower I think I would now choose the ability to stop time. Just so I could stop and use the frozen time to read books an such, a way to catch up on things. There is so much I don't know an want to learn that I simply don't have the time to do it. Still its not possible but if it were that be my choice.
Anyway so I'm after a book or several that tell all the Greek story myths. Its interesting thou where did they call come from in the first place? an then when did they stop believing in these stories? Was it like Christianity and other religions that came along and made them just think "This is silly" and swap? I don't get it, anyone know what happened to these believes?
*
After a 2/3 year wait the new Katie Melua album is out Woo! However upon first few listens, I only thinks its ok. I'm hoping its going to grow on me the more I listen an learn the tracks. Its not grabbed me as much as the last album did. I think its because there are a lot of slower tempo songs, but the faster songs are brilliant. I still believe "The flood" is one of the best tracks she's ever done which got me excited for the album. So far been a little under whelmed.
A first listen is always the most exciting but I have to be happy with this now for the next 3 years. I'm just glad I've got new stuff to listen to, and then at the end of the year I'll be seeing her live. Can't bloody wait, in the meantime I hope it grows on me and I end up loving the album
*
Its been a week or so now, and I've needed time to absorb and mourn the ending of Ashes to Ashes. I was happy with the final ever episode, it answered enough questions for me. I'm just utterly heart broken its the end and no more Gene Hunt. I wasn't as utterly shocked by the last episode, I think its because I'd worked elements out for myself an a few things that just sunk into place for me. Also looking back the trail for the episode didn't help as I think it did spoil a few elements, but guess didn't know it was going to. People that make such trails should be a little more careful with what they show thou, I'm sure its a fine balance.
Still it was a sad ending an I'm sad to see the end of it. I'll just have to make do with the boxsets and watching them forever now.
*
(Maybe spoilers ahead)
I'm finding myself a little at odds with Doctor Who. I mean I like it, and I'm enjoying the show. I'm just not finding myself utterly excited about it ever week like I used to. I like the Doctor, and I like Amy. However that is where the problem lies, I "Like" them and not "Love" them. I mean I utterly loved the 10th Doctor, his assistants and many of the episodes.
I cried when Rose was lost to the other dimension, I was heart broken at what happened to Donna. I cried floods of tears when 10 died, it was a super sad emotional finale episode. I'm just not feeling the same level of love for the new doctor.
Like this week "Rory" died (did he?, really thou?) I felt nothing for his death. One I felt it was coming for a few episodes now, and secondly the way in which he died was pointlessly crap.
He pushed the doctor out of the way to save him, getting shot in the process. Right great, however he seemed to push the doctor out the way, before the shot was even fired, an then he got shot. So she couldn't of just I dunno re-targetted the doctor before firing? Pointless.
I'm not sure what it is, I think its basically the new doctor who series feels different and doesn't have the same level of emotional depth like the old ones did. Not sure if I can put my finger on it yet....did I feel this way with the first season of 10? I can't seriously remember, so perhaps its something I have to relearn to love again.
I mean even confidential has become less interesting an boring. This week, them on the who tour, right brilliant. Not that fussed, I'd rather they talked more about the episode to be honest.
Friday 21 May 2010
An end to all things...
It seems its a time of endings in TV. Many shows are beginning to come to an end, some by means of there time has come to a close and others have been forced into it. Either way 2010 is a year of endings.
Some of the shows I'm talking about ending are of course 24, Lost, Heroes and Ashes to Ashes. All good shows in there own right and some really sad to see end. An the one I'm most sad to see end is...Ashes to Ashes.
Its a British show we should be proud of, a cop show that's wrapped in such complex thought provoking mysteries and ideas. Its been an utter joy to watch, and the last ever series which draws to a close this Friday. Is the show that's had me nervously counting down to the end of. My thoughts have been very much stuck on this show as I await the ending. An I have been let down by endings in the past when I have been this excited an nervous for them. I so hope this isn't the case. The ending of Life on Mars was one of television genius an was such a fitting ending. I hope this doesn't disappoint.
I shall be sad to see the back of one of televisions greatest ever characters as well in Gene Hunt. The nature of the character, his brilliant one liners all so wonderfully played by Philip Glenister. The American version and especially Gene wasn't even in the same league as the original.
With that being said, part of the fun of the show is trying to work out the meaning behind it all. Of course like everyone I have my theories an I hope the eventual truth will leave me happy and content. Friday will tell....
In the mean time there are other big shows ending, Lost being the next big one. All those mysteries coming to an end. Its sad because its one of those shows that rarely come along, when will the next show like it be? Who knows but as I said 2010 is a sad year for the ending of TV shows.
Some of the shows I'm talking about ending are of course 24, Lost, Heroes and Ashes to Ashes. All good shows in there own right and some really sad to see end. An the one I'm most sad to see end is...Ashes to Ashes.
Its a British show we should be proud of, a cop show that's wrapped in such complex thought provoking mysteries and ideas. Its been an utter joy to watch, and the last ever series which draws to a close this Friday. Is the show that's had me nervously counting down to the end of. My thoughts have been very much stuck on this show as I await the ending. An I have been let down by endings in the past when I have been this excited an nervous for them. I so hope this isn't the case. The ending of Life on Mars was one of television genius an was such a fitting ending. I hope this doesn't disappoint.
I shall be sad to see the back of one of televisions greatest ever characters as well in Gene Hunt. The nature of the character, his brilliant one liners all so wonderfully played by Philip Glenister. The American version and especially Gene wasn't even in the same league as the original.
With that being said, part of the fun of the show is trying to work out the meaning behind it all. Of course like everyone I have my theories an I hope the eventual truth will leave me happy and content. Friday will tell....
In the mean time there are other big shows ending, Lost being the next big one. All those mysteries coming to an end. Its sad because its one of those shows that rarely come along, when will the next show like it be? Who knows but as I said 2010 is a sad year for the ending of TV shows.
Tuesday 6 April 2010
"Sometimes you can't help which way you fall"
So its Easter, time of chocolate an what not. Also time for me to go rambling on about this an that.I guess the main things would be the return of Doctor Who and Ashes to Ashes. An after round one the winner is....Ashes to Ashes. Well it may be pointless comparing the shows and judging them against each other but on the simple fact of which I enjoyed more and left me with a sense of satisfaction then it was Ashes to Ashes. However the real winner was the viewer.
That being said, A2A came out firing on all cylinders with a blinder of first episode. As always there was some brilliant laugh out loud moments of brilliance. While the last 10 minutes left me feeling nervous and heavily curious of what lies ahead.
*small spoiler* The new character of Keats was a brilliant turn. Turning from bumbling friendly investigator to a nasty creepy bastard in seconds. Brilliant writing to make me instantly hate the guy, though his future plans make things look bleak for all concerned.
Some interesting questions and mysteries seem yet to be answer. What is the importance of the world, and what really happened to Sam Tyler? An who's the disfigured man? who ever it is, it most definitely isn't Sam Tyler due to the fact it looks nothing like John Simm.
"You can't stand there" "Yes I can, I just have to stay here with my feet slightly apart." Gene quote of the episode.
As for the return of the doctor. The opener was a strong an interesting episode. Of course after the epic two parter finale of the 10th Doctor things weren't ever going to be on the same scale, nor should they be. What we got was a fairly simple story weaved with some interesting character elements. Most importantly we had a new Doctor to get to know, Matt Smith seems comfortable and a pretty good choice for the new Doctor. Filling the role with humour, charm and a quirky nature. An his look fits the new doctors personality, even if it doesn't look anywhere near as cool as Tennants.
What we most importantly got from the episode is the solid foundations of things to come. The show feels differently and on the path to a new feel to the doctor. I don't think its one I've settled into and feel comfortable with yet but I trust in what Moffets vision of the show is.
That being said some new elements was the interesting "Doctors vision" which is an interesting way to show what the doctor has said before.
"Every waking second, I can see: what is, what was, what could be, what must not. That's the burden of a Time Lord" So it was a nice way to try and show it in a visual sense. I wonder if we will see it later on in the series.
I also like the character of Amy Pond, feisty, cheeky an a little bit sexy. An the fact the two character met in a unique way helps but also interesting that the Doctor has also shaped her to be how she is. Clearly there is some more mysteries behind little Amy, and look forward to seeing more.
Glad also to see Murray Gold is continuing on with scoring the series. His work has been just as important to making the show as anyone else's involvement. With that being said however, new titles look brilliant, nice new logo but the new theme...awful. I'm sorry its lost its impact, after the first tease the old one kicked in with a loud opener so you knew where you were straight off. Now its a more subtle weird start which has no impact. Also the lack of bass Dum-de-dums is really sadly lacking, so feel rather disheartened by the whole thing. An there isn't enough there for it to grow on me sadly.With that being said, I really like the new Doctors "Adventure theme" as I shall call it till it has a proper name. It's really cool and I love the string elements near the start. Its almost as good as "All the strange, strange creatures" which was very much 10's adventure theme. An even if its half as good as that, that's high praise indeed.
I shall leave it there for now, an can't really make a full judgement on how much I like the new Doctor until we are a few more episodes in. One episode is not enough to get a good impression on, we have had no real struggle, or any real emotional depth/danger. An it was the emotional side of the doctor that Tennant portrayed oh so wonderfully. So I shall watch with eager anticipation for what lies ahead for the doctor.
That being said, A2A came out firing on all cylinders with a blinder of first episode. As always there was some brilliant laugh out loud moments of brilliance. While the last 10 minutes left me feeling nervous and heavily curious of what lies ahead.
*small spoiler* The new character of Keats was a brilliant turn. Turning from bumbling friendly investigator to a nasty creepy bastard in seconds. Brilliant writing to make me instantly hate the guy, though his future plans make things look bleak for all concerned.
Some interesting questions and mysteries seem yet to be answer. What is the importance of the world, and what really happened to Sam Tyler? An who's the disfigured man? who ever it is, it most definitely isn't Sam Tyler due to the fact it looks nothing like John Simm.
"You can't stand there" "Yes I can, I just have to stay here with my feet slightly apart." Gene quote of the episode.
As for the return of the doctor. The opener was a strong an interesting episode. Of course after the epic two parter finale of the 10th Doctor things weren't ever going to be on the same scale, nor should they be. What we got was a fairly simple story weaved with some interesting character elements. Most importantly we had a new Doctor to get to know, Matt Smith seems comfortable and a pretty good choice for the new Doctor. Filling the role with humour, charm and a quirky nature. An his look fits the new doctors personality, even if it doesn't look anywhere near as cool as Tennants.
What we most importantly got from the episode is the solid foundations of things to come. The show feels differently and on the path to a new feel to the doctor. I don't think its one I've settled into and feel comfortable with yet but I trust in what Moffets vision of the show is.
That being said some new elements was the interesting "Doctors vision" which is an interesting way to show what the doctor has said before.
"Every waking second, I can see: what is, what was, what could be, what must not. That's the burden of a Time Lord" So it was a nice way to try and show it in a visual sense. I wonder if we will see it later on in the series.
I also like the character of Amy Pond, feisty, cheeky an a little bit sexy. An the fact the two character met in a unique way helps but also interesting that the Doctor has also shaped her to be how she is. Clearly there is some more mysteries behind little Amy, and look forward to seeing more.
Glad also to see Murray Gold is continuing on with scoring the series. His work has been just as important to making the show as anyone else's involvement. With that being said however, new titles look brilliant, nice new logo but the new theme...awful. I'm sorry its lost its impact, after the first tease the old one kicked in with a loud opener so you knew where you were straight off. Now its a more subtle weird start which has no impact. Also the lack of bass Dum-de-dums is really sadly lacking, so feel rather disheartened by the whole thing. An there isn't enough there for it to grow on me sadly.With that being said, I really like the new Doctors "Adventure theme" as I shall call it till it has a proper name. It's really cool and I love the string elements near the start. Its almost as good as "All the strange, strange creatures" which was very much 10's adventure theme. An even if its half as good as that, that's high praise indeed.
I shall leave it there for now, an can't really make a full judgement on how much I like the new Doctor until we are a few more episodes in. One episode is not enough to get a good impression on, we have had no real struggle, or any real emotional depth/danger. An it was the emotional side of the doctor that Tennant portrayed oh so wonderfully. So I shall watch with eager anticipation for what lies ahead for the doctor.
Tuesday 30 March 2010
Mania highlights.
* Money in the bank: Did it really have to be of all people Jack bloody Swagger to win? Looks like he is now borrowing some of Kurt Angles old attire. Ok he can wrestle, but listening to him talk is painful so why of all people did he have to win? I guess Christian was to obvious a pick. Other than the winner not a bad money in the back, thou I don't think 10 people in it worked so well, to many in there with little time to shine. Shelton Benjamin anyone? where was he during that match! Only true highlights came from Matt Hardy and Christian moments.
* Sheamus Vs Triple H: Shame Triple H won, I think Sheamus could of done with the win more, Triple H didn't need the win. Least Sheamus had a good showing and I guess that was the idea.
*Jericho Vs Edge: I wasn't to fussed with the result here, the pair had a great match. Happy to have seen either champ, but a little extra happy Jericho retain. With the ending however I think they are already setting up for the next PPV rematch. Edge is bound to win it then.
*HBK Vs Undertaker: This was the match we all wanted to see, and it didn't disappoint. Not sure if it topped last years, only because it was so special last year and we had something to live upto this year so it wasn't as "new". Either way it was a cracking match, the way HBK lost and indeed ended his career was how I'd want to go, fighting till the bitter end. Was a special moment that and the crowd gave him such a superb send off. Sad to think thats the last HBK match, thanks for the memories if it was.
There was some other highlights, such as Bret getting his revenge, even Vicki Guerrero paying a little homage to her late great husband Eddie. Anyone else I'd of been annoyed by but I can't fault her for because she is the widow of Eddie. Was it better than last year? Not so sure, but was good none the less. There is nothing in the year that matches Wrestlemania an that's the truth.
* Sheamus Vs Triple H: Shame Triple H won, I think Sheamus could of done with the win more, Triple H didn't need the win. Least Sheamus had a good showing and I guess that was the idea.
*Jericho Vs Edge: I wasn't to fussed with the result here, the pair had a great match. Happy to have seen either champ, but a little extra happy Jericho retain. With the ending however I think they are already setting up for the next PPV rematch. Edge is bound to win it then.
*HBK Vs Undertaker: This was the match we all wanted to see, and it didn't disappoint. Not sure if it topped last years, only because it was so special last year and we had something to live upto this year so it wasn't as "new". Either way it was a cracking match, the way HBK lost and indeed ended his career was how I'd want to go, fighting till the bitter end. Was a special moment that and the crowd gave him such a superb send off. Sad to think thats the last HBK match, thanks for the memories if it was.
There was some other highlights, such as Bret getting his revenge, even Vicki Guerrero paying a little homage to her late great husband Eddie. Anyone else I'd of been annoyed by but I can't fault her for because she is the widow of Eddie. Was it better than last year? Not so sure, but was good none the less. There is nothing in the year that matches Wrestlemania an that's the truth.
Saturday 27 March 2010
"There's one thing you never put in a trap..."
The last thoughts that I wrote about previously have left me thinking long and hard about things. I'm starting to feel the winds of change brewing in my life. Something that has slowly started to develop, mostly with regards to work, but also I guess with myself an my thinking on things. There is a sense of sour bitterness approaching.
I felt this once before an I elected to jump before I was pushed. Though it was hard, an a period of roughness came which I didn't enjoy. It also came with a certain degree of readjusting and often things you take for granted become obvious in there absence.
However in the long run I think it was something that was wise to do. If for my own happiness and nothing else.
So with regards to my ever present future, I'm feeling that a new jump is required. Where I fall exactly and just how well is yet to be seen, but during the free fall of it, wish me luck.
As of right now nothing is for certain (if it ever is) So over the next coming months I shall write about my experience and if indeed any progress has happened. You may be sitting there reading wondering what I'm so cryptically waffling on about, or what I have in mind. If any of you reading truly know me, I guess you may have some idea of what it is I'm trying to do. So wish me luck and as of Monday I will kick the first stage of my plan into action (like I really have a plan) so wish me luck on that.
*
It's an exciting week of telly as two of my favourite shows are set to return to the box an I can't wait.
"Ashes to Ashes" and "Doctor who".
Where do I start with why I'm excited about the return of these two ingenious shows. Ashes to Ashes comes with a sense of sad excitement. Sad excitement? Yeah, well good that its back yet sad that its coming to an end. The sense that a few prolonged unanswered mysteries promise to be reveal. I just hope they aren't a let down. An I'm looking forward to hearing some new Gene Hunt words of wisdom.
As for the return of the Doctor. We have a whole new one to welcome and help guide us into the new who era. We had no series last year and I felt Saturday night telly lacked because of it, nothing filled the void. The amount of reality telly talent shows, or shows about falling over members of the public didn't come close. They were easy often cheaper mindless shows for the simple masses. They don't fill you with wonder, excitement while raising the back of your hairs in nervous anticipation. Maybe that's just me, but that's something that the return of who brings with it for me. That excitement and eager wanting of the next episode. To be taken on the joyous ride, nothings grips like the build up to the show an each that follows.
From the small clips I've seen, the approach seems familiar yet fresh at the same time. So over the next few weeks I shall be gripped to my telly lapping up all the telly goodness that is on its way, enjoying the emotional ride that awaits, only wish it could last.
Oh and on a personal note, finally my 10th Doctor replica coat is on the way. I can't wait to try it on and feel the weight and whoosh of it all. It's proven to be a bit of a battle to get hold of, with regards to supplier problems an what not. Taken about 6 months to get here, I just hope it has been worth the wait.
Photos I'm sure are to follow for those people who have displayed an interest just to see what its like in all of its magnificence.
Anyway I shall leave you here while I climb into bed early because the damn summer time is stealing an hour of my sleep, damn you BST!! *Shakes fist*
I felt this once before an I elected to jump before I was pushed. Though it was hard, an a period of roughness came which I didn't enjoy. It also came with a certain degree of readjusting and often things you take for granted become obvious in there absence.
However in the long run I think it was something that was wise to do. If for my own happiness and nothing else.
So with regards to my ever present future, I'm feeling that a new jump is required. Where I fall exactly and just how well is yet to be seen, but during the free fall of it, wish me luck.
As of right now nothing is for certain (if it ever is) So over the next coming months I shall write about my experience and if indeed any progress has happened. You may be sitting there reading wondering what I'm so cryptically waffling on about, or what I have in mind. If any of you reading truly know me, I guess you may have some idea of what it is I'm trying to do. So wish me luck and as of Monday I will kick the first stage of my plan into action (like I really have a plan) so wish me luck on that.
*
It's an exciting week of telly as two of my favourite shows are set to return to the box an I can't wait.
"Ashes to Ashes" and "Doctor who".
Where do I start with why I'm excited about the return of these two ingenious shows. Ashes to Ashes comes with a sense of sad excitement. Sad excitement? Yeah, well good that its back yet sad that its coming to an end. The sense that a few prolonged unanswered mysteries promise to be reveal. I just hope they aren't a let down. An I'm looking forward to hearing some new Gene Hunt words of wisdom.
As for the return of the Doctor. We have a whole new one to welcome and help guide us into the new who era. We had no series last year and I felt Saturday night telly lacked because of it, nothing filled the void. The amount of reality telly talent shows, or shows about falling over members of the public didn't come close. They were easy often cheaper mindless shows for the simple masses. They don't fill you with wonder, excitement while raising the back of your hairs in nervous anticipation. Maybe that's just me, but that's something that the return of who brings with it for me. That excitement and eager wanting of the next episode. To be taken on the joyous ride, nothings grips like the build up to the show an each that follows.
From the small clips I've seen, the approach seems familiar yet fresh at the same time. So over the next few weeks I shall be gripped to my telly lapping up all the telly goodness that is on its way, enjoying the emotional ride that awaits, only wish it could last.
Oh and on a personal note, finally my 10th Doctor replica coat is on the way. I can't wait to try it on and feel the weight and whoosh of it all. It's proven to be a bit of a battle to get hold of, with regards to supplier problems an what not. Taken about 6 months to get here, I just hope it has been worth the wait.
Photos I'm sure are to follow for those people who have displayed an interest just to see what its like in all of its magnificence.
Anyway I shall leave you here while I climb into bed early because the damn summer time is stealing an hour of my sleep, damn you BST!! *Shakes fist*
Monday 22 March 2010
How can I change the path that I'm on? This is my Destiny
There is a point when everyone has to face up to their future, to decide what it is they want to do. Some may call it Destiny.
Sometimes people dream of achieving something while they carry on their life dreaming of what shall be, Then there are the special few who don't dream, they make it real.
What is it that makes them different? What is it that drives them? Ambition? The drive to make a dream real. Talent? The undeniable ability to just be great and let destiny come to them.
It is said that no matter what you do in life someone, somewhere is just better at it than you. I guess it could be true, but at the same time wouldn't you wish you'd never meet them and face up to the reality. Sometimes its not always true, as sometimes a true great will come along who is unequaled. I can think of some examples in sport where this has happened. Michael Schumacher was a great, doesn't matter if you like them or not, their achievements alone speak for themselves. Another great would be Roger Federrer who keeps on winning and at times looks utterly unbeatable. Are these people examples of that exception?
I guess somewhere along the line I don't know what truly is my "special" skill. What is it that stands me out from others an is my true skill. Do you know yours?
I like writing, I enjoy it but I've quickly come to the conclusion I'm not stand out good at it. There are works by others that I simply get blown away by, the brilliance in what they have created. The depth, detail and sometimes unquestionable level of genius. They also say everyone has a book in them, that doesn't mean its a work of brilliance. Lots of people churn out books that have no real point to them. I guess I simply lack the great writing spark.
I like to think I'm good at gaming. However with that being said, I have often played games online and often gotten beat. Or I see achievements in games that I simply don't understand how they did it. Is that plainly down to the fact they are better than me? Do they know something about the game I don't, is that where the skill lies? At least I can honestly say I've achieved things without the aid of cheats. At least in that I can take the moral high ground by saying I've done things the proper way they were intended to be done.
So I guess I'm yet to truly find what it is that I'm great at. I've found things that I've thought I was good at, but not great. So what is my skill? Just when I think I know, someone comes along and is simply better and, or knows more than I do.
I seem to have a growing thirst to learn and find out about things that fascinate me. Something I can honestly say I didn't feel when at school. Perhaps that's because my learning path was carved out for me. Where as now I'm not in a forced learning structure and am free to learn the things I want to. Thou I often wish I had more time to spend to the learning of things. Sometimes I feel thou in a weeks time I look back and I've not really retained what I learnt the week before. Is that because I didn't truly learn it in the first place? Does my brain not work how I want, or am I learning in the wrong way.
Anyway with all this being said I've gone wildly off my original starting point. "Destiny"
Suffice to say, I've come to a point in my life where I'm going to have to change things before it becomes to late.
I've laid awake at night unable to sleep because my mind is full of so many thoughts on the subject that its begun to scare me. I think its more in the "How do I do it" or perhaps its in the idea of simply failing at it that scares me. I've dreamt about doing nothing else my whole life. If it doesn't work out, I simply don't know what else to do, and I think that thought scares me even more.
Is this simply the drive and ambition that I've needed all along? The key ingredient that sparks thou's people who achieve. I kinda hope so.
With all that I've said, and thanks for reading if you have. I shall leave with a little quote that comes to mind that helps to sum up some thoughts on the subject. An it comes from Baz Lurhmans "Everyone is free (to wear sunsceen)" speech/song.
"Don't feel guilty if you don't know what you want to do with your life. The most interesting people I know didn't know at 22 what to do with their lives...some of the most interesting 40 year olds I've met, still don't"
Sometimes people dream of achieving something while they carry on their life dreaming of what shall be, Then there are the special few who don't dream, they make it real.
What is it that makes them different? What is it that drives them? Ambition? The drive to make a dream real. Talent? The undeniable ability to just be great and let destiny come to them.
It is said that no matter what you do in life someone, somewhere is just better at it than you. I guess it could be true, but at the same time wouldn't you wish you'd never meet them and face up to the reality. Sometimes its not always true, as sometimes a true great will come along who is unequaled. I can think of some examples in sport where this has happened. Michael Schumacher was a great, doesn't matter if you like them or not, their achievements alone speak for themselves. Another great would be Roger Federrer who keeps on winning and at times looks utterly unbeatable. Are these people examples of that exception?
I guess somewhere along the line I don't know what truly is my "special" skill. What is it that stands me out from others an is my true skill. Do you know yours?
I like writing, I enjoy it but I've quickly come to the conclusion I'm not stand out good at it. There are works by others that I simply get blown away by, the brilliance in what they have created. The depth, detail and sometimes unquestionable level of genius. They also say everyone has a book in them, that doesn't mean its a work of brilliance. Lots of people churn out books that have no real point to them. I guess I simply lack the great writing spark.
I like to think I'm good at gaming. However with that being said, I have often played games online and often gotten beat. Or I see achievements in games that I simply don't understand how they did it. Is that plainly down to the fact they are better than me? Do they know something about the game I don't, is that where the skill lies? At least I can honestly say I've achieved things without the aid of cheats. At least in that I can take the moral high ground by saying I've done things the proper way they were intended to be done.
So I guess I'm yet to truly find what it is that I'm great at. I've found things that I've thought I was good at, but not great. So what is my skill? Just when I think I know, someone comes along and is simply better and, or knows more than I do.
I seem to have a growing thirst to learn and find out about things that fascinate me. Something I can honestly say I didn't feel when at school. Perhaps that's because my learning path was carved out for me. Where as now I'm not in a forced learning structure and am free to learn the things I want to. Thou I often wish I had more time to spend to the learning of things. Sometimes I feel thou in a weeks time I look back and I've not really retained what I learnt the week before. Is that because I didn't truly learn it in the first place? Does my brain not work how I want, or am I learning in the wrong way.
Anyway with all this being said I've gone wildly off my original starting point. "Destiny"
Suffice to say, I've come to a point in my life where I'm going to have to change things before it becomes to late.
I've laid awake at night unable to sleep because my mind is full of so many thoughts on the subject that its begun to scare me. I think its more in the "How do I do it" or perhaps its in the idea of simply failing at it that scares me. I've dreamt about doing nothing else my whole life. If it doesn't work out, I simply don't know what else to do, and I think that thought scares me even more.
Is this simply the drive and ambition that I've needed all along? The key ingredient that sparks thou's people who achieve. I kinda hope so.
With all that I've said, and thanks for reading if you have. I shall leave with a little quote that comes to mind that helps to sum up some thoughts on the subject. An it comes from Baz Lurhmans "Everyone is free (to wear sunsceen)" speech/song.
"Don't feel guilty if you don't know what you want to do with your life. The most interesting people I know didn't know at 22 what to do with their lives...some of the most interesting 40 year olds I've met, still don't"
Friday 12 March 2010
Random thoughts, ie can't think of a subject title :P
Its that time again, the return of F1. The only true sport that I follow heavily during the year and the new season is about to start. An its looking to be a really exciting new season, new teams, new driver line ups and the return of the most successful driver in the history of the sport.
The Internal battle at McLaren between Button and Hamilton is one that I will keep a close eye on (not just because I have £10 riding on the outcome) but I'm just excited as its gearing up to be a very exciting and interesting season. Who knows who will win? I would like to see Hamilton win a second title.
The Internal battle at McLaren between Button and Hamilton is one that I will keep a close eye on (not just because I have £10 riding on the outcome) but I'm just excited as its gearing up to be a very exciting and interesting season. Who knows who will win? I would like to see Hamilton win a second title.
*
During my run this morning I stopped by a gate to tie my shoes up and out of nowhere around 8 little lambs came running to the gate bleating at me. Looking all small, young and cute. Didn't know if I should give them a little rub or not, before long thou a big mumma sheep came over. She was staring at me with what could only be described as an evil look so I quickly decided to carry on my way. Clearly spring is here or very close to be now with the signs of these fresh faced lambs.
*
I've decided to set myself a challenge, I don't think its all that hard but just to see if I pull it off. 100 films in a year, sounds easy enough, roughly 2 films a week, easy? So I'll give it a go, if anyone is interested in my progress I'll list each month what I've seen. An I mean to proper sit down and watch it from start to finish not half way though. If anyone wants to join in feel free see if you can do it.
Friday 5 March 2010
Poor sick (expensive) motor.
My poor little car had to go in for its MOT today, the past 3 years its gone thru fine no problems. Luck ended this year, it failed. It's got a structural crack that needs welding, so its gotta stay there and be sorted. Only bugger is that I won't be able to get it back till Monday Grr. So thats 3 or so days without a car to get to work with, so going to have to rely on buses and generous lifts.
Just annoying, and so the whole thing is gonna cost around £200, ouch! Good job I have money saved (for a rainy day) but it doesn't help in the meantime as its a bit of a dent so gonna have to scrimp by for a little while which is annoying as means I have to delay a few investments while I regain funds. Everyone goes on about owning a car an how great it is, but its an expensive thing to have.
An also with having to hang around home waiting for the phone to ring, I wasn't able to go out and lend some support to the brilliant Sport Relief bike ride. For those not in the know 5 celebs are riding from one end of the UK to the other on bicycles raising money for Sport Relief. No easy task. An the route they were taking went right through Truro, would of liked to have popped along and cheered them on. Did sponsor them in the week so would of been nice to have seen some of the hard work they did, but hey ho :(
*
Got Heavy Rain in the week for the PS3. A little game I been keeping an eye on and have been looking forward to playing. So had to purchase it and whoa what a treat. To say its a game isn't exactly an accurate description, its more like an interactive story. An experience to be sure, you play the role of 4 different characters all linked together because of the "Origami Killer" who's been behind a serious of murders in the city.
Graphically its stunning, the characters look near photo realistic, the facial expression and details are stunning. The tiny little pores in the skin, to the shaved hairs on the face. When I first started and was controlling the starting character Ethan walking around in his boxers at home, I almost forgot I was controlling and it was a game and not a film I was watching, bizarre.
The game centres on the idea of "What would you do to save a loved one?" a strong emotive theme, and some of the stuff I've had to do so far has been unnerving, but you decide alot of the time what it is you do and that's the power of the game.
Not close to finishing yet but enjoying the plot an the many twists an choices on the way so far.
Just annoying, and so the whole thing is gonna cost around £200, ouch! Good job I have money saved (for a rainy day) but it doesn't help in the meantime as its a bit of a dent so gonna have to scrimp by for a little while which is annoying as means I have to delay a few investments while I regain funds. Everyone goes on about owning a car an how great it is, but its an expensive thing to have.
An also with having to hang around home waiting for the phone to ring, I wasn't able to go out and lend some support to the brilliant Sport Relief bike ride. For those not in the know 5 celebs are riding from one end of the UK to the other on bicycles raising money for Sport Relief. No easy task. An the route they were taking went right through Truro, would of liked to have popped along and cheered them on. Did sponsor them in the week so would of been nice to have seen some of the hard work they did, but hey ho :(
*
Got Heavy Rain in the week for the PS3. A little game I been keeping an eye on and have been looking forward to playing. So had to purchase it and whoa what a treat. To say its a game isn't exactly an accurate description, its more like an interactive story. An experience to be sure, you play the role of 4 different characters all linked together because of the "Origami Killer" who's been behind a serious of murders in the city.
Graphically its stunning, the characters look near photo realistic, the facial expression and details are stunning. The tiny little pores in the skin, to the shaved hairs on the face. When I first started and was controlling the starting character Ethan walking around in his boxers at home, I almost forgot I was controlling and it was a game and not a film I was watching, bizarre.
The game centres on the idea of "What would you do to save a loved one?" a strong emotive theme, and some of the stuff I've had to do so far has been unnerving, but you decide alot of the time what it is you do and that's the power of the game.
Not close to finishing yet but enjoying the plot an the many twists an choices on the way so far.
Sunday 28 February 2010
The Trophy quandry
Do achievements/Trophies force you to play in a way you wouldn't normally?
What I'm talking about for those not sure is on your X-Box and your PS3 you gain achievements/Trophies while playing games. They are then all compiled together on your profile and other people can come along an have a nose, in a way to see how good you are at the game. Depending on the game they can differ greatly, but for example a football game may set a trophy as "Win 3 games" or "Score 10 goals in one match"
There are different levels of difficulty depending on the level of reward. Now my question is, does the implementation of these trophies force you to play in a different way from what you would normally do. Is this a good thing or not?
For some people its all about going out and achieving the most you can with the games and earning the most trophies. Other people just play the game casually and unlock the rewards as they go. My biggest problem with the system is however, if a trophy asks you to do something repetitive, not within your normal play style to achieve. Like collection certain objects in game, especially if they provide no reward other than the end result of the trophy itself.
Is this forcing players to play in a style an way in which the developers want you to? Breaking your normal style to fit in with how they intend you to play the game? Sometimes I feel this can be the case, but at the same time isn't it better to experience everything that has been built into the game? By pushing you into areas normally you would neglect to do?
I think its a tough question to truly answer, as its a mix bag of yes and no answers. Some things are good, some aren't. I feel personally as I've paid for the game an by getting say 100% or as much as I can, that I've personally got as much out of the game as I can. Indeed getting my moneys worth from it. An I think it does instill a sense of pride especially if you have worked hard to achieve it. I think the most important factor is the game has to be fun in order for you want to achieve it, not because you feel you have to. An isn't that the main reason to play a game in the first place, because you enjoy it?
*
Speaking on the matter of games, I achieved Commander rank in Star Trek Online the other day. Still playing hard at the game and still enjoying it. I meant to write a review at some point but I never got round to doing it. I should post a few screenies at some point, but I actually lack any real graphic editing software on my new comp. Trying to get hold of a copy of Photoshop, just wish it didn't cost so damn much.
Thursday 25 February 2010
"First listen cuts the deepest"
Not had the best of days, when I say that its not like its anybody else's fault but my own. Firstly I went to go food shopping this morning, to get the weekly shop. So off I pop only to find as I got there I'd gone and left my card behind so I wouldn't be able to buy anything. "D'oh!" so I had to pop home and get it, so back in the car to drive home. So I did the shop all fine the second time I arrived. Making me a little later than I'd hoped, so quickly grab lunch, get changed and head to work. After an hour or so there I realised I'd only gone and bloody left my keys at home meaning I couldn't get in the office or lock up later. So had to have my break early, just so I could then drive back home AGAIN to get my keys. What was more annoying I left work to go home, an realised with seconds to spare I'd left my front door key in my jacket in work, so dashed back in to get that. How damn annoyed would I have been if I'd gone home to find I'd left my house keys. Lucky I didn't or there may have been some blood spilled. So all in all I've driven out and back to my house FOUR times today. Frankly I'm bored of doing that same journey. In the words of Karl Pilkington "I can't be doing with it" so glad I've got a day off now so I don't have to do the journey again. Hmm forgetting things isn't fun.
*
This may seem like an obvious point, but I feel like saying it anyway. There is something very special about listening to an album for the very first time. A once in a lifetime experience. Sometimes its the culmination of 3 year wait since the last album, or the simple discovering of a brand new artist and experiencing the album for the first time. Its the moment you sit there an absorb each track fresh, make your impression of the song. Do you like it or not? Its feeling a connection with the song. Sometimes this connection changes when you listen to an album more an more. As you learn it and become more familiar with the song, but its the first ever listen that's the most special of all the listens. Anyway, as simple or as obvious a thing this may appear to be it still feels like a slight personal landmark the first time you listen to a new album. Or course this same feeling can be applied to other things such a film, or book etc. I just tend to take more notice of it when it occurs with music. Whether that's because there is more of an emotional connection who knows.
*
This may sound a little selfish, but have you ever loved something, but it hasn't been totally famous/popular and when it suddenly takes off part of you wish it hadn't? I mean you have discovered something off your own back, maybe stumbled on it, or were there from the start. Something happens to make it more popular, to put it into the lime light and part of you wishes it wasn't. Like it suddenly becomes less personal a somewhat secret love but now everyone knows about it. I guess its because you have been personally attached to it and now you feel everyone is intruding in on it. At the same time you are happy the thing you love is doing well and taking off, which also means that its more likely to continue with its new found popularity an fame. So of course there is good that comes from it, but just sometimes I get a little annoyed like something personal has been taken away, when you were there early on and helped to build the true fanbase. Though I do hate the phrase "There not as good now its gone commercial" when things get popular, you have people turn their back on it, just because it is "popular" I'd never do that as I'd want them to have the success, but it just takes a little of the personal connection away I feel. Maybe none of this makes sense to anyone else but me, but just felt like saying it none the less.
*
This may seem like an obvious point, but I feel like saying it anyway. There is something very special about listening to an album for the very first time. A once in a lifetime experience. Sometimes its the culmination of 3 year wait since the last album, or the simple discovering of a brand new artist and experiencing the album for the first time. Its the moment you sit there an absorb each track fresh, make your impression of the song. Do you like it or not? Its feeling a connection with the song. Sometimes this connection changes when you listen to an album more an more. As you learn it and become more familiar with the song, but its the first ever listen that's the most special of all the listens. Anyway, as simple or as obvious a thing this may appear to be it still feels like a slight personal landmark the first time you listen to a new album. Or course this same feeling can be applied to other things such a film, or book etc. I just tend to take more notice of it when it occurs with music. Whether that's because there is more of an emotional connection who knows.
*
This may sound a little selfish, but have you ever loved something, but it hasn't been totally famous/popular and when it suddenly takes off part of you wish it hadn't? I mean you have discovered something off your own back, maybe stumbled on it, or were there from the start. Something happens to make it more popular, to put it into the lime light and part of you wishes it wasn't. Like it suddenly becomes less personal a somewhat secret love but now everyone knows about it. I guess its because you have been personally attached to it and now you feel everyone is intruding in on it. At the same time you are happy the thing you love is doing well and taking off, which also means that its more likely to continue with its new found popularity an fame. So of course there is good that comes from it, but just sometimes I get a little annoyed like something personal has been taken away, when you were there early on and helped to build the true fanbase. Though I do hate the phrase "There not as good now its gone commercial" when things get popular, you have people turn their back on it, just because it is "popular" I'd never do that as I'd want them to have the success, but it just takes a little of the personal connection away I feel. Maybe none of this makes sense to anyone else but me, but just felt like saying it none the less.
Thursday 18 February 2010
"Are you Tekken the mick?"
I finished Tekken 6 today, as in got 100% Trophies and my 3rd Platinum award for my PS3 account. Woo! Ok so there's bound to be loads of people out there with tons more than I have, but I'm pleased I added a 3rd to my achievements. So in away I'm going to review Tekken 6. However at what point though does a challenge no longer become fun? I know in order to have a sense of achievement you have to "Achieve" something, by over coming a challenge. It wouldn't be an achievement right with out a challenge.
However at some point something's are just made insanely hard to the point they aren't fun. When I say insanely hard, its not impossible as I wouldn't of got 100% completion but there has to be a point where its fun right?
So what in the hell did the person who created the end boss of "Azazel" have in mind? The moves he can pull off aren't fun. He can turn the fight round in a second by doing a string of stupidly annoying over powered moves. Let me describe Azazel, he's a huge ancient Egyptian god whoz been locked away for centuries. He's massive, has a great long tail. Not to mention the ability to fire lasers from his eyes, throw spikes at you and raise them from the floor to poke you. Oh an occasionally fly.
So the amount of times you have to fight this chap only to fail needing only one simple move to win is beyond annoying. Its to the point where it almost makes you feel like giving up on the game. However me being a stubborn sod that I am, I persevere till the end. But should you go through such an experience under the banner of something being fun?
Oh for those of you not familiar by now with the legendary Tekken series by Namco its a classic beat-em-up game.
So besides the annoying end boss Azazel, how is the game? Well to be honest Azazel is very annoying so any review will simply be marked down by just how annoying he is, however with that set aside.
We have the usual Beat-em-up game play options, Arcade, Survival, Team. Which all comes under the offline mode. There is of course an Online Vs mode. Which from personal experience was a little slow an annoying, took ages to match you with a player, an half the time I got matched with some players who are much higher experienced that myself which more than not ended in a very one sided affair. An the only other problem even on a so called strong connection with the other player, the match would lose connection mid way through, which was annoying. Could be my connection, not sure.
The bulk of the game however is taken up by a campaign Scenario mode, which is a heavy story based adventure. You go from map to map fighting mobs in a scrolling beat em style. This is fun and challenging but the graphics seem to be of a lower standard than other areas of the game, and its hugely let down by poor camera angles, often hiding enemies and your ally from view.
This mode reminded me heavily of the old story mode from another namco game Soul Caliber. While the story is good with some nice twists an turns it seemed to be the focal point of the whole game rather than just the normal arcade mode. The arcade mode and normal fights are graphically rich and the combat flows smoothly together. The new fighting arenas provide different tactics in the fight, with some having walls to pin an opponent against, to others having collapsing floor. Thou lot of this felt more gimmick than anything and not often providing much more than a slightly different back drop.
The Cgi end sequences from the characters once unlocked, look utterly gorgeous in there beautifully rended style, some are cool interesting end movies, others are more amusing light hearted affairs, all animated showing the games true graphically height.Overall there isn't much new in Tekken 6 that hasn't been covered in previous games, with the only real exception being the new scenario story gameplay. Any fan of the series is sure to love the latest version. Thou even as a fan of the series myself, having played and completed all the previous 5, the game still feels tarnished because of the awfully annoyingly designed end boss of Azazel, who you fight enough times to actually begin to regret playing. That being said, I enjoyed sections of the game, but its not going to make my personal gaming highlights or leave me wanting more.
However at some point something's are just made insanely hard to the point they aren't fun. When I say insanely hard, its not impossible as I wouldn't of got 100% completion but there has to be a point where its fun right?
So what in the hell did the person who created the end boss of "Azazel" have in mind? The moves he can pull off aren't fun. He can turn the fight round in a second by doing a string of stupidly annoying over powered moves. Let me describe Azazel, he's a huge ancient Egyptian god whoz been locked away for centuries. He's massive, has a great long tail. Not to mention the ability to fire lasers from his eyes, throw spikes at you and raise them from the floor to poke you. Oh an occasionally fly.
So the amount of times you have to fight this chap only to fail needing only one simple move to win is beyond annoying. Its to the point where it almost makes you feel like giving up on the game. However me being a stubborn sod that I am, I persevere till the end. But should you go through such an experience under the banner of something being fun?
Oh for those of you not familiar by now with the legendary Tekken series by Namco its a classic beat-em-up game.
So besides the annoying end boss Azazel, how is the game? Well to be honest Azazel is very annoying so any review will simply be marked down by just how annoying he is, however with that set aside.
We have the usual Beat-em-up game play options, Arcade, Survival, Team. Which all comes under the offline mode. There is of course an Online Vs mode. Which from personal experience was a little slow an annoying, took ages to match you with a player, an half the time I got matched with some players who are much higher experienced that myself which more than not ended in a very one sided affair. An the only other problem even on a so called strong connection with the other player, the match would lose connection mid way through, which was annoying. Could be my connection, not sure.
The bulk of the game however is taken up by a campaign Scenario mode, which is a heavy story based adventure. You go from map to map fighting mobs in a scrolling beat em style. This is fun and challenging but the graphics seem to be of a lower standard than other areas of the game, and its hugely let down by poor camera angles, often hiding enemies and your ally from view.
This mode reminded me heavily of the old story mode from another namco game Soul Caliber. While the story is good with some nice twists an turns it seemed to be the focal point of the whole game rather than just the normal arcade mode. The arcade mode and normal fights are graphically rich and the combat flows smoothly together. The new fighting arenas provide different tactics in the fight, with some having walls to pin an opponent against, to others having collapsing floor. Thou lot of this felt more gimmick than anything and not often providing much more than a slightly different back drop.
The Cgi end sequences from the characters once unlocked, look utterly gorgeous in there beautifully rended style, some are cool interesting end movies, others are more amusing light hearted affairs, all animated showing the games true graphically height.Overall there isn't much new in Tekken 6 that hasn't been covered in previous games, with the only real exception being the new scenario story gameplay. Any fan of the series is sure to love the latest version. Thou even as a fan of the series myself, having played and completed all the previous 5, the game still feels tarnished because of the awfully annoyingly designed end boss of Azazel, who you fight enough times to actually begin to regret playing. That being said, I enjoyed sections of the game, but its not going to make my personal gaming highlights or leave me wanting more.
Saturday 13 February 2010
"I'm looking for Love, You got any?"
Gleeful. How good was this weeks "Glee"? After the first two opening episodes I felt it had started to take a dip in its quality. However that was swiftly rectafied with a guest appearance from the brilliant Kristin Chenoweth. I loved her singing in "Pushing Daises" her Eternal Flame was both magically and touchingly used. It was no surprise to see her on Glee, almost a show she is made to appear on, and she didn't disappoint. All 3 of her songs were wonderful. I'm also starting to find myself loving the Rachel character (an the actress who plays her :$) So how happy did I find myself with the last song being Queen "Somebody to love" It seems the US like to use that song and cover it. It wasn't as good as Anne Hathaways solo attempt in "Ella Enchanted" but it was still tinglingly good. It never surprises me thou, how many people it takes to pull off a Freddie sung song. That man had one of the worlds most amazing singing voices, the pure power and range of his voice is something I don't think will ever be replaced. So I'm always dubious of a Queen cover as its never as good as a Freddie vocal, but its testament to just how damn fine a song Queen wrote that they are so commonly used.
*
Apprently I'm not a typical guy (you don't say I can hear you cry) but driving, I just don't get it. Well I do, and I don't. The freedom of it is great, and in a place where driving is more useful than catching a million buses that don't tend to take you where you want to. Its got its useful purpose, but it just lacks the sense of joy for me. Well when I say that its not entirely true, I just don't like the fact there are others on the road with me. Its the sense of it doesn't matter how good and careful a driver you may be. All it takes is one stupid moron to cause an accident. However when the road is empty, and its just you and a car. It does have a sense of pleasure. Sometimes thou, there is one thing that makes the experience just that much more enjoyable and that's a little simple ingredient of music. I'm not talking the crap dance, Rap heavy bass thumbing beats that a boy racer with a flash car and sound system bellow out. I'm talking cool music that reaches inside and tickles your heart to make you smile. I had such an experience today, it was because of "Live and Let Die" not sure why but I just wanted to sing loud an proud while driving. While also not wanting the journey to end. At that precise time, I thought "This driving stuff isn't all bad"
*
Crossing the void. I love the idea of spin offs more so when the show the spin off begins to stand on its own feet and can possibly be better than the original. An just sometimes something extra special happens and there is a cross over where by the shows interact with each other. When I think about it, there hasn't been all that many shows that do. I can think of a small handful where this has happened. One of the biggest that comes to mind is Buff/Angel. Where characters from one show would appear on the other. When done well they can be brilliant. Its like a gift for the regular viewer of both shows, like an extra inside treat. It only helps to cement the reality in which they are meant to both be based from. I think its what made the Season 4 finale of Doctor Who extra special when the two spin off shows "Sarah Jane Adventures" and "Torchwood" both became a part of the episode. An all the characters got to interact together. Another more surprising show that I love when they get together is that of "Casualty" and "Holby City". I watch both shows, and I started watching Holby because of its parent show Casualty. So when the two of them collide its exciting. An if its meant to be based at the same hospital why on occasions would they not interact? There is also one Spin off show that hasn't exactly interacted with its original, other than the characters continuing in another show. That of which I speak is "Life on Mars" and "Ashes to Ashes" I have to actually say I like the Spin off show of "Ashes to Ashes" more because of the simple fact the original trio from "Life on Mars" are in it more. Gene, Ray and Chris, with obviously Gene become far more central which is only ever a good thing. However the story of how these two shows connect hasn't been fully answered, an sadly the answer to that is creeping ever closer as the 3rd and final ever series is looming close. I'm nervously exited, its a mystery at the moment, but do you always want your questions answered? Sometimes the answers arn't as rewarding as the questions themselves. Life on Mars had a wonderful ending which was both brilliant, chilling, rewarding and yet left you with a sense of mystery. I just hope the final answers are just as brilliantly written, time will tell.
*
And on that note I will end with the best fan made Doctor Who tribute videos on the net. So good that any of the official produced stuff hasn't been as good. So I'll post the Doctor Who 10th Doctor tribute. For those of you still morning beware it may bring back those tears, for others it will put a smile on your fact with all the memories brilliantly composed together. Of course it goes without saying anyone not having seen it, its spoiler heavy. Enjoy
*
Apprently I'm not a typical guy (you don't say I can hear you cry) but driving, I just don't get it. Well I do, and I don't. The freedom of it is great, and in a place where driving is more useful than catching a million buses that don't tend to take you where you want to. Its got its useful purpose, but it just lacks the sense of joy for me. Well when I say that its not entirely true, I just don't like the fact there are others on the road with me. Its the sense of it doesn't matter how good and careful a driver you may be. All it takes is one stupid moron to cause an accident. However when the road is empty, and its just you and a car. It does have a sense of pleasure. Sometimes thou, there is one thing that makes the experience just that much more enjoyable and that's a little simple ingredient of music. I'm not talking the crap dance, Rap heavy bass thumbing beats that a boy racer with a flash car and sound system bellow out. I'm talking cool music that reaches inside and tickles your heart to make you smile. I had such an experience today, it was because of "Live and Let Die" not sure why but I just wanted to sing loud an proud while driving. While also not wanting the journey to end. At that precise time, I thought "This driving stuff isn't all bad"
*
Crossing the void. I love the idea of spin offs more so when the show the spin off begins to stand on its own feet and can possibly be better than the original. An just sometimes something extra special happens and there is a cross over where by the shows interact with each other. When I think about it, there hasn't been all that many shows that do. I can think of a small handful where this has happened. One of the biggest that comes to mind is Buff/Angel. Where characters from one show would appear on the other. When done well they can be brilliant. Its like a gift for the regular viewer of both shows, like an extra inside treat. It only helps to cement the reality in which they are meant to both be based from. I think its what made the Season 4 finale of Doctor Who extra special when the two spin off shows "Sarah Jane Adventures" and "Torchwood" both became a part of the episode. An all the characters got to interact together. Another more surprising show that I love when they get together is that of "Casualty" and "Holby City". I watch both shows, and I started watching Holby because of its parent show Casualty. So when the two of them collide its exciting. An if its meant to be based at the same hospital why on occasions would they not interact? There is also one Spin off show that hasn't exactly interacted with its original, other than the characters continuing in another show. That of which I speak is "Life on Mars" and "Ashes to Ashes" I have to actually say I like the Spin off show of "Ashes to Ashes" more because of the simple fact the original trio from "Life on Mars" are in it more. Gene, Ray and Chris, with obviously Gene become far more central which is only ever a good thing. However the story of how these two shows connect hasn't been fully answered, an sadly the answer to that is creeping ever closer as the 3rd and final ever series is looming close. I'm nervously exited, its a mystery at the moment, but do you always want your questions answered? Sometimes the answers arn't as rewarding as the questions themselves. Life on Mars had a wonderful ending which was both brilliant, chilling, rewarding and yet left you with a sense of mystery. I just hope the final answers are just as brilliantly written, time will tell.
*
And on that note I will end with the best fan made Doctor Who tribute videos on the net. So good that any of the official produced stuff hasn't been as good. So I'll post the Doctor Who 10th Doctor tribute. For those of you still morning beware it may bring back those tears, for others it will put a smile on your fact with all the memories brilliantly composed together. Of course it goes without saying anyone not having seen it, its spoiler heavy. Enjoy
Friday 5 February 2010
"I think its coming Sammy"
Having just finnished watching Season 4 of Supernatural I feel compelled to say how great the show is. A sign of a good show and creator to me is someone who has an overal plan for the show, some form of direction. Not just within the one season story arc, but when put over a multi season story arc. Something that builds over a longer time, sometimes just bubbling in the back ground. Supernatural has had this, hint at things to come, some mysteries and things building to something ever closer.
Ok it doesn't have a huge mystery/plot like Lost which is special in itself, but least Supernatural has a direction, something that other shows like Heroes seem to have lacked. It started well but seemed to get lost, I know it was effected by the writers strike, but then so were other shows like Lost, Supernatural. They coped far better, anyway this isn't me having a direct dig at Heroes.
The ending of Season 4 was gripping and only makes me crave for the next season, which is the whole idea of a season finale. I've just enjoyed the whole season and going to leave it there as I don't wish to go in depth with more reasons as to preserve any form of spoilers.
*
Bodly going where no man has gone before....or now in my case 1 million other users. As being somewhat of an MMO gaming veteran. (Massive Multiplayer online) there has always been one license that has screamed out for an MMO and until now never had one. Something as a kid I would dream of being part of, and that was Star Trek Online.
So I decided to don my uniform, sit aboard the bridge of my very own Starship and give it a go. First impressions are overwhelmingly good. There is a little bit of a learning curve, I thought steep but have adapted to it quicker than I thought. All the basic mmo characteristics are there, but then added in some new elements. Like space combat, so far this has been where the bulk of my game play has occured. An it is polished and slick, so works well. I've done mostly the patrol missions, which seem fun. However I can imagine they get a little tedius after a while just because of the lenght in time it takes to do.
Also ground combat feels a little basic, simple may be a fairer discritption but unlike other MMO's I've played there isn't much to it in comparrison. Mostly pointing my phaser (gun) and firing. Be nice if some other elements are added later to the game.
Anyway as I've said, its only just come out, like most MMO's that means its only the start of the journey. Where we go from there is up to the the gamers, and what ever exciting new things the developers will throw at us.
The game has launched to 1 million user accounts created, which is a very good sign. Even if the user base drops by half a month or two down the line thats still a respectable user base to be getting on with. I've known many MMO's that toddle along with less. Anyway I'm also myself only at the starting point of the game, lots more to discover myelf yet. However lets hope that Star Trek online has the ability to "Live long and prosper" (cheesy but had to be done)
So I decided to don my uniform, sit aboard the bridge of my very own Starship and give it a go. First impressions are overwhelmingly good. There is a little bit of a learning curve, I thought steep but have adapted to it quicker than I thought. All the basic mmo characteristics are there, but then added in some new elements. Like space combat, so far this has been where the bulk of my game play has occured. An it is polished and slick, so works well. I've done mostly the patrol missions, which seem fun. However I can imagine they get a little tedius after a while just because of the lenght in time it takes to do.
Also ground combat feels a little basic, simple may be a fairer discritption but unlike other MMO's I've played there isn't much to it in comparrison. Mostly pointing my phaser (gun) and firing. Be nice if some other elements are added later to the game.
Anyway as I've said, its only just come out, like most MMO's that means its only the start of the journey. Where we go from there is up to the the gamers, and what ever exciting new things the developers will throw at us.
The game has launched to 1 million user accounts created, which is a very good sign. Even if the user base drops by half a month or two down the line thats still a respectable user base to be getting on with. I've known many MMO's that toddle along with less. Anyway I'm also myself only at the starting point of the game, lots more to discover myelf yet. However lets hope that Star Trek online has the ability to "Live long and prosper" (cheesy but had to be done)
Saturday 30 January 2010
Why do we say it? An wots being creative?
So I'm going to write a blog, bet I'll get bored and forget to do it. Depends on if anyone starts to read it or indeed care. Anyway for now I'm going on the idea that I will get some joy out of it and/or it may help me to get some things off my busy mind.
"Are you moving somewhere nice?"
What kind of question is that? In all likelihood are they going to turn around and say.
"Well actually, I'm moving to a shithole, terrible neighbours, rats everywhere. Its going to be awful"
Even if that were the true answer would they reveal that to you? I think they'd be to embarrassed to say and probably just respond with "Yeah its alright"
Its just one of the many things we say to make polite conversation. When you stop and look at what it is you are saying, it reveals just how silly a thing it is to say.
Other silly things to say on those lines are.
"Do you have (such an such)?"
"No sorry, but we used to"
What good is that? Great you used to, but unless I have access to a time machine don't help doesn't it? "Ah-ha I'll pop back in my time machine now you said that"
No use what so ever but we say it anyway.
*
What's the key to being someone creative? Is a creative genius someone who has lots of ideas, or someone who just has one utterly brilliant one? I don't often have loads of ideas, not from scratch, however if I'm watching something, reading something or someone talks to me I seem to instantly get other ideas on how to adapt or improve it. Is that being picky? or merely someone has sparked the creative juices?
I've often thought that I could write a script/book if I had a partner. Mostly so they could do the proper work like writing it out, laying it out how it is meant to be, but I'd create the content/ideas. Also good to bounce ideas off someone.
Isn't that how many US Tv shows are made? By a team of writers discussing ideas?
So back to the original thought. Does having ideas like that equate to someone creative or merely someone normal? I'm beginning to think its the later.
"Are you moving somewhere nice?"
What kind of question is that? In all likelihood are they going to turn around and say.
"Well actually, I'm moving to a shithole, terrible neighbours, rats everywhere. Its going to be awful"
Even if that were the true answer would they reveal that to you? I think they'd be to embarrassed to say and probably just respond with "Yeah its alright"
Its just one of the many things we say to make polite conversation. When you stop and look at what it is you are saying, it reveals just how silly a thing it is to say.
Other silly things to say on those lines are.
"Do you have (such an such)?"
"No sorry, but we used to"
What good is that? Great you used to, but unless I have access to a time machine don't help doesn't it? "Ah-ha I'll pop back in my time machine now you said that"
No use what so ever but we say it anyway.
*
What's the key to being someone creative? Is a creative genius someone who has lots of ideas, or someone who just has one utterly brilliant one? I don't often have loads of ideas, not from scratch, however if I'm watching something, reading something or someone talks to me I seem to instantly get other ideas on how to adapt or improve it. Is that being picky? or merely someone has sparked the creative juices?
I've often thought that I could write a script/book if I had a partner. Mostly so they could do the proper work like writing it out, laying it out how it is meant to be, but I'd create the content/ideas. Also good to bounce ideas off someone.
Isn't that how many US Tv shows are made? By a team of writers discussing ideas?
So back to the original thought. Does having ideas like that equate to someone creative or merely someone normal? I'm beginning to think its the later.
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