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g33kWatch Geek Culture, Video Games, Tabletop and Movies 2017-01-30T14:32:32Z http://www.g33kwatch.com/feed/atom/ WordPress http://www.g33kwatch.com/g33k.jpg g33kWatch, 2008-2011 Joseph Valenti http://www.g33kWatch.com/ <![CDATA[Online Gaming – 3 Things to Look Out for in 2017]]> http://www.g33kwatch.com/?p=15811 2017-01-30T14:32:32Z 2017-01-30T14:32:32Z Continue reading

We are now firmly in the age of online gaming. Whether it’s on a video games console, on a laptop or computer, or on a smartphone or tablet, there have never been more options for the average gamer to connect to the Internet and play with fellow gamers from all over the world.

According to a national research study by UKIE, as of 2015 there were over 10.6 million online gamers in the UK alone. That number is almost certainly higher now as we enter 2017. And, due to a higher demand for seamless online playing experiences, it’s no surprise that contemporary developers are focussing more and more on online functionality. This is true across every modern gaming platform and genre – even the new Nintendo Switch will finally have the long-overdue online multiplayer, the first Nintendo console to do so.

Now is certainly a prime time to cast an eye toward the coming 12 months, and see just what the next year has in store for online gamers everywhere. Here’s our rundown of some hot trends we expect to see more of in 2017.

The next level of iGaming

Thanks to developments in mobile technology and the widespread availability of Wi-Fi, 4G and upcoming 5G connections, the iGaming industry continues to grow in both size and value year after year. From bookmakers to lottery providers, new businesses are entering the market every year, and those that are already established are developing a wider range of services.

As for virtual casino gaming, whether you’re looking to play online poker, roulette or online casino games at a site like mFortune, the range of options these days is quite staggering. mFortune is also a prime example of an iGaming operator that is focussing on the online experience of mobile users, particularly with bonuses and promotions that are specifically geared towards mobile casino players who prefer to play on the move. We definitely expect this online mobile focus to spread even further across the iGaming industry over the next 12 months.

MMOs based on different themes and genres

Grand Theft Auto V (43)” (CC BY 2.0) by MrRiddell

The idea of massive multiplayer online games has traditionally been epitomised in cult role play games like World of Warcraft, Guild Wars or even Runescape. Well, perhaps not for much longer.

Although some consider it be a semi-MMO, the strides taken by Grand Theft Auto V has shown that the concept of massive online multiplayers will very likely broaden to cover all manner of genres and platforms in the near future. Another good indicator is the incredible popularity that Pokemon Go experienced last year, a very promising sign for large online multiplayer games on mobile devices. Off the back of this success, we’re expecting at least two or three big online multiplayers for mobile devices by the end of 2017.

The next wave of virtual and augmented reality games

Virtual Reality Demonstrations” (CC BY 2.0) by UTKnightCenter

Talking of Pokemon Go, it’s almost certain that virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) games will soon carve out a much bigger presence in the world of online gaming. By its very nature, the technology is ideal for creating immersive online environments in which players from around the world can interact with one another.

With hardware devices like the Oculus Rift and HTC Vive released last year, developers have only just started to scratch the surface of what’s possible with VR technology. No doubt we’ll see some big titles released in 2017 across all genres – from horror to car racing. We’re keeping our fingers especially crossed for the prospect of Fallout 4 in VR!

Plenty to look forward to in 2017, that’s for sure.

Mr. Khon http://www.g33kwatch.com/ <![CDATA[Paradiso: Chapter One – Escape Room (NY Comic Con 2016)]]> http://www.g33kwatch.com/?p=15800 2016-10-19T19:17:37Z 2016-10-19T19:17:37Z Continue reading

Traffic on a Saturday night in New York City is incredible. I arrive outside a specified location and drop off my brother, my girlfriend and our friend. I tell them we only have a few minutes to check in, I’ll park and make my way inside. I tell them to give the name of our contact and wait for me. Just as I park the car and head for the building in Koreatown, my brother texts me that our contact Mr. Chen is coming in 10 minutes and if I’m not there in time none of my party can go without me. I run the few blocks into the building and past the security guard in the lobby. I head to the elevator and other people start talking about how they can’t trust anyone that’s what the text messages said. I start to listen to their conversations because I got messages that said the same thing. When I walk into the bar I find my group waiting. I’d made it with a few minutes to spare. I found my interaction in the elevator created a strange pseudo paranoia. I thought, Is this really a bar or is it part of Paradiso? Are the people in here customers, bartenders and hosts or something else. Soon “Mr. Chen” arrived. We were given papers to sign, introduced to another group who would be experiencing Paradiso with us and told to select a leader. My group chose me, the other group agreed. We were told not to speak and to follow “Mr. Chen”. When we arrive we enter an office suite and are welcomed to our destination, The Virgil Corporation. Paradiso has begun…

Paradiso is an interactive theatrical escape room experience loosely based on The Divine Comedy. The creators of this game are Michael Counts (The Walking Dead Experience) and Jennifer Worthington (former SVP of Jerry Bruckheimer Films) of Immersive Escape Productions LLC. As a production between theatrical director Counts and film executive Worthington this becomes one of the most unique experiences in New York City. The game will send players text messages for days leading up to the event. These messages provide game information, world building and clues. They enhance the game and on the day of they are necessary to get to the check in location. There are unique instructions sent to players as part of the game and its even possible to engage with one of the characters in the game world before arriving. There are multiple spaces to escape from and a narrative designed to take up to 10 players through an alternate reality game experience. The story is original but there are elements of Mr. Robot, Assassin’s Creed and The Jejune Institute. Inside of each space there are different puzzles to solve in order to advance. There are also actors playing characters as part of the narrative inside the experience as well. The game involves utilizing many different skills and more than a little bravery to complete. While not a horror game Paradiso will at times surprise, unnerve and possibly scare players as they move through the game. It is totally unique in its production value, and the storyline is exceedingly deep and engaging.

Paradiso: Chapter One is the first step in what Immersive Escape hopes will become a game that moves from a building in Koreatown to taking place on the streets of Manhattan. All players must be over the age of 16 to play and Paradiso’s schedule and tickets can be found at www.paradisoescape.com.

Mr. Khon

Mr. Khon http://www.g33kwatch.com/ <![CDATA[Ash vs Evil Dead Season 2 – NYCC 2016]]> http://www.g33kwatch.com/?p=15787 2016-10-06T16:34:43Z 2016-10-06T16:34:43Z Continue reading

Just finished the Ash Vs Evil Dead Season 2 Panel at NYCC 2016.

The panel was held at the Hammerstein Ballroom and was attended by the full main cast of Season 2. Bruce Campbell, Lucy Lawless, Ted Raini, Lee Majors. There was a Q&A held by Doug Benson. The cast spoke about the  new season and answered fan questions.

Bruce says Sam is the bet director he’s ever worked with. Most prepared. Forces you to get the work done. He directs through humiliation and torture. “That was great for someone else’s movie.” Bruce explaining Sam’s style.

Did Lucy, Ted, Bruce intend to be a cult actors? Ted says no one intends to be a cult movie star. It’s the unintended result of movies that are maligned becoming famous later.

Ruby (Lucy Lawless) seems to have a major shift from season 1. She is now part of the group even though no one trusts her. Lucy says  you know she’s part of the gang because she gets covered in goo now.

Bruce remembers reading in readers digest about night of the living dead. He talks about it as a modern movie made in the 70s. It influenced evil dead.

A fan nearly had a breakdown and said he was great so he gave her $10. She explained she had baby last year so she couldn’t start an Ash VS Evil Dead fan club. They asked if the baby was named Bruce. She said no.

Ted impersonates Lee Majors then Bruce and Ted impersonate each other.

The cast thinks there should be a Bruce and Ted show on the Starz app.

Someone asked about an evil dead sequel of the remake. Bruce says Fede Alvarez just made “don’t breathe” and it was a huge hit. So probably not.

Favorite kill Lucy said deli slicer. They want to talk about season 2 but it spoils kills.

A fan asks would Kelly and Pablo freak out about time travel. Bruce hints that there might be time travel this season.

A fan asks Lee majors about joining a show with so many fans. He said he’s exited to be working now. He wasn’t a fan before but he loved the first season.

A fan asks Bruce how to keep characters different. Bruce feeds into it. Asks the fan if he’s insinuating he’s a one more actor. The fan calls him a great actor and got $10.

Episode 2 Review in a separate post.

  •  Mr. Khon

Mr. Khon http://www.g33kwatch.com/ <![CDATA[Kurios: Cabinet of Curiosities – Cirque du Soleil]]> http://www.g33kwatch.com/?p=15771 2016-10-06T05:26:59Z 2016-10-06T05:26:59Z Continue reading

I am a big fan of Cirque du Soleil. Their shows are about giving an audience the absolute best live performances imaginable. They innovate and they add some elements that could be seen as strange to their shows but its a good bet that whatever they’re doing is worth going to see. So when I saw that they were bringing their touring steampunk inspired spectacle Kurios: Cabinet of Curiosities to Randall’s Island in New York City I was very excited to see the show.

Photo: PARAMOUR on Broadway - A Cirque du Soleil Musical; Cast: Indigo: Ruby Lewis A.J.: Jeremy Kushnier Joey: Ryan Vona Invited dress rehearsal photographed: Friday, April 15, 2016; 7:00 PM at the Lyric Theatre/Broadway, New York; Photograph: © 2016 RICHARD TERMINE PHOTO CREDIT - RICHARD TERMINE

Earlier this year I attended Cirque du Soleil’s first foray into Broadway, Paramour. The musical was an intriguing and unique diversion for Cirque. They are well versed at creating both touring big top/arena shows and resident theatrical performances. Combining their circus elements with a musical really sounded like it would equate to a massive hit. Cirque du Soleil has been trying to establish a show in NYC for some time, ie Banana Schpeel at the Beacon Theatre in 2010 which was unsuccessful. Paramour which I enjoyed but did not love has recently undergone a revamp and an update. That said it is not a runaway broadway smash hit. I believe the elements that hold Paramour back are that the circus and traditional musical elements do not blend as well as they could. There are moments of course and perhaps in the updated show they’ve managed to fix the problems but putting on a spectacle is what Cirque du Soleil does best and the difference between these two shows is Kurios is entirely about spectacle.

From the time you enter the promenade on Randall’s Island for Kurios you are greeted by performers of various kinds. We saw stilt-walkers, fire-dancers and musicians in the first few moments of our arrival. We attended the event’s NYC premiere and so our experience was a bit more enhanced than the one the general public was going to receive but I do know that on days where weather permits they will have musical performers greet the audience by playing on top of the tent. The lobby for the tent featured a number of souvenirs, bars, food, and props from the show. After we walked through and sampled the food and drinks we found our way to our seats. We were in the second tier but our seats were excellent. To be noted we were in the same general area as many invited celebrity guests(Neil Patrick Harris, Debra Messing and Michael Musto) who were in attendance, just a few seats behind them.  There were quite a few children but the show that night was filled with adults. I brought the same guest as came to see Paramour and this was their first true Cirque du Soleil big top show. They had enjoyed the circus elements to Paramour and I thought it would be fitting if they got to see the more tried and true Cirque experience.

17037_1060kurios_quebec-9546_mediumresolutionI do not want to spoil all the elements of the show but I do want to discuss what we felt were our highlights. First, the concept was spectacular. The show is a love letter to steampunk. The official show concept details ideas of imagination and dreams but in execution the show features elements of time travel, automatons, locomotives, gramophones and for lack of a better term “mad-science”. Like most Cirque shows there are several different characters to help guide you through the show but if you do not know their names or understand their language it does not matter because you will find them all wonderful and endearing anyway.

16945_287kurios_quebec-4397_mediumresolutionAs you take your seats characters roam the audience entertaining you with different props and performances. VIP audience members are taken on stage and allowed to run through a few of the Cabinet of Curiosities’ contraptions. A clock on stage counts up from 11:00 as the clock reads 11:10 there is a warning that the show will start. Once the theatre darkens and the performers come on to the stage we are introduced to The Seeker, the owner of the Cabinet of Curiosities and the main character of the show. The Seeker sits in their chair and at 11:11 is launched into the Cabinet and the show begins. From here the performances come quickly one after another all wrapped in beautiful steampunk affectation.

The opening number starts in the audience and sees the stage filled with automatons, percussionists, dancers, a juggler and acrobats. This was the kind of opening number that would rival a number of high budgeted broadway shows and was the perfect introduction to the kind of show we were going to see. The juggler and the percussionists were personal highlights but the entire performance is incredible. It brought a high energy buzz to the entire audience and set us up for the next section of the first act. Some of my favorite acts in the entire show are in Act 1 and again I do not want to ruin them but the Invisible Circus, Contortion and The Upside Down Dinner were some of the best acts of their kind I’ve ever seen. The Upside Down Dinner actually had people give them a standing ovation once it was over. Its funny, scary, beautiful and makes going to see the show completely worthwhile on its own.

management_kuriosphotospotter-3777There was a 25 minute intermission after the end of Act 1. It sounds like a long time to wait but it went more quickly than we imagined. In act two the Acronet, Aerial Straps and Banquine routines were all stellar, but I wanted to discuss two routines that stood out as being strange but still fantastic. The Yo-yo routine seemed like a truly eccentric idea when it is first introduced but the performance is top notch and its execution really sells you on the entire performance. I do wonder if it would have been better served early in Act 1 and not just after the Aerial Straps. The other performance is the Theater of Hands. Utilizing the same technique from Paramour of using a camera to capture a performance live and projecting it onto a hot air balloon movie screen this strange performance became one of my favorites of the evening. Its quirky, silly and equally as entertaining as some of the high flying death defying performances from earlier on. It just shows that the street performance roots of Cirque du Soleil are still alive and can be shared with an audience in a big top if presented correctly.

Another element I enjoyed were the set pieces. The band and lead singer were placed on stage inside of a giant “Turbine”, so you could see them and they weren’t in a pit below the audience. The singer also moved around with the show sometimes appearing from the very top of the stage. The Contortion and Theatre of Hands were both set on the standout prop of Kurios, The Mechanical Hand. It is a functioning automaton piloted by two performers and it can be used as a stage or a set. They treat it as if it is one of the characters in the show, and they should because it is just as memorable as any person on stage.

17011_817kurios_quebec-9418_mediumresolutionThere are many acts I did not mention or go into detail about but it should be noted that myself and my guest loved nearly every act we saw. I will admit I did not love the Aerial Bicycle and while the Comic Act is funny it was a bit lengthy for my tastes. I think others will enjoy them thoroughly along with all of the other routines in the show. I feel confident in saying if you love live performance and can get out to Randall’s Island, as the clock on stage ticks at the end of the closing number to 11:12 you’ll have enjoyed your evening at the circus.
Kurios: Cabinet of Curiosities will be in New York City until November 27th. Tickets can be purchased at www.cirquedusoleil.com/kurios. If you are not in the New York Area the show is on tour. Plans are for Miami in December, Dallas in February and Houston in April.

Mr. Khon http://www.g33kwatch.com/ <![CDATA[Suicide Squad – Review]]> http://www.g33kwatch.com/?p=15756 2016-08-05T12:20:19Z 2016-08-05T12:20:19Z Continue reading

imageDC has a lot riding on their film universe. The comics publisher has watched as Marvel Studios with the backing of Disney have become the number one producer of film franchises in the world. They have gone through their A-list, B-list and are now making movie stars of their C-list characters with little trouble.

Guardians of the Galaxy was the canary in the coal mine for DC and Warner Brothers. If Marvel could make a massive global hit with characters virtually no one knows anything about then they can do anything and when it comes down to it, DC has the heaviest hitters in the comic book universe. They have Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman. These are the icons that everyone knows and has some emotional connection to whether they can name an artist or a story arc or any of their villains. These are the name brand top shelf VIPs of of funny books and with the exception of The Dark Knight Trilogy it has been quite some time since anyone has felt good about a live action adaptation. (Wonder Woman will finally get a shot next year.)

The issue came to a head earlier this year when Batman vs. Superman came out and was beleaguered by both critics and fans. I tried to defend what was obviously a hatchet job. The film suffered rating required edits that led to a film that wasn’t what anyone would have expected.

There was hope on the horizon. There were a lot of trailers and commercials showing the next film in the series, Suicide Squad, was going to be fun, candy colored and outside of the traditional superhero box. It was slated in my mind to be DC’s effort at a Guardians of the Galaxy of their own, but with the benefit of some really well known characters. They went partially with the new 52 conception of these characters; which was not what most fans wanted but the idea of watching Harley Quinn and The Joker together in live action was too good to pass up. Though, there would still need to be a workable film surrounding these characters in order for the effort to garner any kind of fan or critical support.

The film that they put together did not achieve this goal. Is it a train wreck? No, but its a dated old fashioned tired piece using the concept of being about supervillains to seem new. So instead of a team of anti-heroes we get bad guys who have killed in the past,  steal purses in the present and curse at every opportunity you can in a PG-13 flick.

The movie works as a superhero team up. If this film was made in 2004, before we had 3+ superhero films a year. In 2016 we’ve seen everyone team up. We’re past just making a team comic book film. That’s not enough anymore and the opportunity to utilize any of the possible themes that would make this film stand out are lost.

These are awful people, forced by an awful person to take on an awful task. There is an inherent story about forcing people into servitude, government overreaching, and true motivations of evil men and women. So why does this film seem focused on making everyone so damn lovable and heroic all the time? Why am I charmed by people I know have killed mercilessly for money, revenge or their own pleasure? This isn’t in an over the top super fun cartoon way either. Its in a Deadshot and Harley are just as heroic as Rick Flagg type of way. That Amanda Waller is the devil but “gangsta” and The Joker has an understandable motive. That’s right… I get why The Joker did everything he did in this film. Somehow that feels wrong. Were they allowed to try and make a fun film? Yes. Were they allowed to make a serious film? Yes. But they did not commit to either idea and ended up making a run of the mill unimpressive piece that is ultimately a disappointment.

I have been hoping for an amazing piece to come from DC and WB. I kept saying these things look good so they’ll work out. I’m now officially on board the train that says stop what you’re doing DC. Give up this track and start over.

The DC TV Universe is amazing focus your energies there. Allow those producers and writers and talent the ability to use the Trinity and stop making movies for a few years. Come back when you have a better plan. This one is not working. I don’t even think Suicide Squad is a bad flick. Will Smith and Margot Robbie are amazing. I could watch them do anything together they’re so good and I’m sorry they’re in this mess.

Honestly, you might see the film and not care. You might see it and be disappointed. You might see it and think it was great but even so… Its not the movie they should have made. Its just not.

I could go into the technical reasons why not to see the film but I’d be wasting good time I could spend doing something better.

DC… get better at making movies or stop and just make tv shows.

– Mr. Khon

Mr. Khon http://www.g33kwatch.com/ <![CDATA[Harry Potter and the Cursed Child – Review]]> http://www.g33kwatch.com/?p=15754 2016-08-03T14:55:09Z 2016-08-03T14:55:09Z Continue reading

Harry Potter fans come in all shapes and sizes. All ages and races. They span multiple countries of origin and religions. In fact with the exception of some truly deluded individuals who believe Harry Potter is adverse to their beliefs or just cannot read fantasy stories… the novels in the series are some of the most treasured works of art in the modern age.

These novels that follow the exploits of The Boy Who Lived have sold in astronomical numbers, the films are a multi-billion dollar business and the official theme park attractions are dreams come true for a fanbase who wants to continue living in that world.

The fantasies of all those who wish to join the Wizarding World invented by JK Rowling have sought expansion in various ways. The author has written many things to show the depth of her created universe. Books like The Tales of Beedle the Bard and stories on Pottermore.com continue to show us what life was after the final page of the The Deathly Hallows. In fact our need to continue the fun has caused JK Rowling herself to adapt one of her Hogwarts textbooks into a new film, Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, as well as pen a new Harry Potter story and turn it over to be produced as a stage play, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child.

The Rehearsal Script for The Cursed Child was released at midnight on July 31st, 2016 (In celebration of Harry’s Birthday). There are some obvious differences to this book release than those of the past. There is a trepidation over the story for some fans because once Rowling wrote her story others took it on to adapt it into two plays. This requires the stripping away of many of the most vivid and enjoyable details of each set piece. The best part of reading about Harry Potter was getting to inhabit the amazing, strange and often dangerous world he lived in. It was easy for all of us to spend so much time there because we could activate our imaginations and with Rowling’s descriptions transport ( or apparate) ourselves there time and again. In the case of The Cursed Child some descriptions are kept but since the sets would be visual and the action choreographed in the play, only the required pieces of imagery are written in the script. Meaning, even what descriptions remain are stripped of their floweriness and left in only to pass the most necessary instructions.

That said… if you are a Harry Potter fan and a story by JK Rowling showing Harry Potter’s life 19 years after The Battle of Hogwarts becomes available in any form, it is a must watch/read/listen. Does Rowling’s story live up to her previous seven? Or do the many needs of a stage production ruin the magic?

Harry Potter and The Cursed Child starts at a familiar moment to fans of the series. Harry, now a father of three, takes his middle child Albus Severus Potter to Platform 9 & 3/4s for his first year at Hogwarts. Albus’ older brother James is a great student, popular and in Gryffindor. He teases his little brother who worries greatly about going to Hogwarts with the name Potter. Albus meets someone who also worries about living up to their name when he gets on the Hogwarts Express, Scorpius Malfoy. A boy with an extremely difficult family lineage made all the more difficult by rumors his parentage may be more complex than it seems.

Harry, Hermione, Ron, Draco, and Ginny all feature prominently in the script but the story is absolutely centered around Albus and Scorpius. These two sons of two of the most important wizards in history have a lot to live up to when it comes to their own adventures and their story feels adequately epic. There is no flowery prose but there is a plot and without eschewing spoilers it follows all of the aspects we love about a JK Rowling plot. We are introduced to new characters, we gain insight into the main plot generally involving a piece of magic or magical equipment, a mission is set upon by our heroes and plot twists abound as they try to save the world.

There are negatives to releasing the story in this form. It is not the complete piece as it is intended to be seen by audiences. It will always be compared to the novels which is unfair but true. There will always be those that wish JK Rowling wrote a full novelization of the idea instead of releasing this. (I found it to be an immensely quick read on the order of the time I read the first book in about 2 hours.) Also, it makes hardcore fans yearn for full novels about The Marauders, The Order of the Phoenix and The Life and Times of Albus Dumbledore.

The positives are that it allows fans who do not live in London to experience the eighth Harry Potter story. We get an official plot that we can add to our favorite fantasy universe and we get to indulge in more Harry Potter excitement. For the many of us who like Harry have aged quite a bit get to relive the craziness of fan theorizing and midnight release parties. We also get to introduce Harry Potter to the young people in our lives.

The last positive is that although she has achieved great success with her novels based on her detective character Cormoran Strike, we hope that these different releases will get JK Rowling to sit down and give us the experience of returning to the Wizarding World with new novels. Until then it was nice to spend another night with old friends at Hogwarts and I cannot wait until the Broadway adaptations are available. I will be there opening night if possible.

– Mr. Khon

JK Rowlings complete screenplay adaptation of Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them will be released this November. The hope is that since she adapted the screenplay herself there will be a lot of notes and descriptions we love. Also the film itself will be more readily available so we can see everything she wanted us to experience.

Mr. Khon http://www.g33kwatch.com/ <![CDATA[The Neon Demon – Review]]> http://www.g33kwatch.com/?p=15739 2016-06-30T15:05:05Z 2016-06-30T15:05:05Z Continue reading

Featuring Elle Fanning, Jena Malone, Bella Heathcote, Abbey Lee, Christina Hendricks and directed by Nicholas Winding Refn; The Neon Demon is a genre-defying film that is a visually stunning, nuanced, patient work of art designed to overwhelm the audience’s senses.

Jessie (Elle Fanning) is an LA newcomer hoping to break into the fashion industry. She doesn’t have the ability to sing, she can’t write, she’s not smart but she’s beautiful she tells Dean (Karl Glusman), the young photographer who gave her her first work. On her first shoot she meets Ruby (Jena Malone) a makeup artist who instantly expresses a desire for friendship. She takes Jessie to her first industry party and introduces her to established models Sarah (Abbey Lee) and Gigi (Bella Heathcote). The models believe that Jessie is beautiful but naive when she scoffs at the concepts of plastic surgery or having sex with men to raise her position in the industry. Jessie feels ostracized but Ruby invites her to come watch a performance art piece. A few days later Jessie gets an interview at a top modeling agency. Roberta Hoffman (Christina Hendricks) signs her on sight promising that if she works hard she will soon be heading to New York and become a major model.

Jessie is drawn into the fashion industry quickly finding success but also running into problematic situations. She is 16 but her agent tells her to lie and say she’s 19. She’s sent on a test shoot with a major photographer (Desmond Harrington) who closes the set to shoot an artist nude editorial. The manager of the motel she lives in, Hank (Keanu Reeves), is a dangerous and sexually aggressive man. These things do not prevent her from pursuing her career but they definitely create obstacles and threaten her life.

The outside threats to Jessie’s career don’t just come from men. As she succeeds others question, wonder and suffer over her victories. In an industry as cutthroat and vicious as modeling the fragile egos and the fear of being forgotten can turn ‘beautiful people’ into something vile and ugly.

That said there is something interesting about Jessie herself. Often we are met with heroines in films that are told they are beautiful by other people. Those women are seen as more heroic or sympathetic characters if they deny their beauty whenever it is spoken of. Jessie does not do that. She moved to LA because she believes in herself and she’s not going to pretend to be shy or demure or unspectacular for anyone… Even to spare their feelings… Even if it makes them hate her.

To discuss this film without reaching into its major plot element is difficult but this is an amazing piece of filmmaking. It is gorgeous even when it is showing disgusting or disturbing imagery. It is artistic and it is visceral. Does the ending “make sense”? No, but once you’ve seen the film the ending kind of makes sense. Would I recommend it? That’s the difficult thing about it. I know people who should absolutely see this film. Specific people. This is not a film for everyone. Its going to challenge you. That said if you make it to the end you’ll find yourself watching a sequence you could not believe would be the the end result of the movie you started watching an hour or so before. The film is smart, beautiful and patient but be warned… It also has a gloriously disturbing ending with a voracious appetite for gore. Many people will hate this film but the ones who will love it will find themselves extremely satisfied.

  • Mr. Khon
Joseph Valenti http://www.g33kWatch.com/ <![CDATA[Geek Advice – Online Bingo Can Make You Even Cooler]]> http://www.g33kwatch.com/?p=15733 2016-06-08T15:25:03Z 2016-06-08T15:25:03Z Continue reading

sunglassesWhat happens when you take your gran’s favourite game and put it on the Internet? The answer: the slickest new geek game in town. OK, so online bingo might not be the hippest way to win some money, but it’s certainly a lot cooler than it used to be.

In fact, thanks to a combination of accessibility, a fusion of entertainment methods and a touch of glamour, bingo is now the favourite pastime of millions of people worldwide. According to the UK’s Gambling Commission, online bingo has grown by 22% in the last two years thanks to 3.4 million people across the country anteing up.

Bingo is a Billion Dollar Industry

billionTaking this a step further, the global online bingo industry is now worth more than $1 billion and one of the main reasons for this increase in popularity is the changing face of the game. Today when you log into bgo.com/bingo you’ll not only find a myriad of games, but you’ll see the likes of Paris Hilton and Verne Troyer staring back at you.

By harnessing the mass-market appeal of fashionable celebs like Hilton and Troyer, bgo Bingo has simultaneously boosted its own credentials and contributed to the overall reshaping of the game itself. Indeed, much like other online bingo sites have employed celebrity ambassadors like Kerry Katona (Kerry With Bingo) and Kathy Wakile (Pala Bingo), bgo Bingo has tapped into the mainstream by giving the game some glamour.

More Options = More Popularity

bingoOf course, that’s not the only reason it has become a hit in a gambling industry that’s now worth more than $41 billion. The other reason, and it’s one all tech geeks will appreciate, is the availability of the game. By hosting the game on both desktop and mobile platforms, bingo operators have been able to offer more games to more people. Instead of the twice weekly sessions at a local bingo hall, fans of the game can now play anytime, anywhere.

Whether it’s a £0.15 Need for Speed 90-ball game on bgo Bingo or a £0.02 City Hall 30-ball game on Booty Bingo, players now have more options and, moreover, more ways to win. In fact, when it comes to mobile bingo, the process of entering a game is now so simple that you can literally do it with a few touches. From selecting a game to crossing of your numbers, playing is extremely efficient.

Bingo is now a Live Extravaganza

nightclubThis, in a nutshell, is why bingo is now a trendy way to win money and the reason you should consider anteing up if you want to increase your street cred. In fact, such is the popularity of online bingo that live event companies are now using to host some fully immersive entertainment experiences.

Rebel Bingo started off hosting events in London, but thanks to the popularity of the shows they have spread as far as New York. Taking the game and building a live show around it, Rebel Bingo is the latest example of how bingo is now a mainstream game that’s hip with the hipsters.

So, while you may have assumed that bingo wouldn’t help make you a much cooler geek, the facts tell a different story. Whether you’re anteing online alongside the likes of Paris Hilton or you’re taking part in a live extravaganza, bingo is great way to make yourself even cooler.

Mr. Khon http://www.g33kwatch.com/ <![CDATA[Paramour – Cirque Du Soleil on Broadway]]> http://www.g33kwatch.com/?p=15716 2016-06-02T23:21:13Z 2016-06-02T23:08:35Z Continue reading

Anyone who knows me and/or has read this site for any amount of time knows how much I love movies. (Excuse me… Films!) I love modern films, as well as older films. I love all things Hollywood and still see the place as magical. There is even more grandeur and fairydust sprinkled on the way I see the place the further back in time we go.

The ‘Golden Age of Hollywood’ represents films at their pinnacle, and Paramour the new Broadway play produced by Cirque du Soleil attempts to do that. Many of you know my experience with film and live performance arts but for those that do not. I attended film school in New York City and I produce burlesque shows that contain circus, sideshow, vocal performances, etc. I love live entertainment and film. I love Broadway and I have seen numerous Cirque du Soleil performances over the years.

Photo: PARAMOUR on Broadway - A Cirque du Soleil Musical; Cast: Indigo: Ruby Lewis A.J.: Jeremy Kushnier Joey: Ryan Vona Invited dress rehearsal photographed: Friday, April 15, 2016; 7:00 PM at the Lyric Theatre/Broadway, New York; Photograph: © 2016 RICHARD TERMINE PHOTO CREDIT - RICHARD TERMINE

Paramour is not like any Cirque show I’ve ever seen. First and foremost this is a Broadway musical. It features singing, dancing, costumes, sets and a narrative plot. Other Cirque shows are often bound together by a concept and while they tell a story they don’t often use words to do so. There is definitely structure that links the pieces together but they don’t narrate a specific story for you.

The differences don’t end there. Traditionally Cirque shows take place in a big top or a special theatre designed specifically for the show. Paramour took over the Lyric Theatre in Manhattan, which formerly housed Spiderman: Turn Off the Dark. Though since Spiderman was in the same space, we know the theatre has the support structure built in for high flying aerial performances and that makes a lot of sense considering that the main draw for attendees are the circus elements.

Paramour’s plot is that of an aspiring singer/actress, Indigo (Ruby Lewis), who is discovered by a director, A.J. (Jeremy Kushnier). Indigo, is given the opportunity to become a star but it means she must choose between being in movies; and her friend/song writing partner, Joey (Ryan Vona). Indigo becomes a major Hollywood star, Joey is hired to write a song for AJ’s film and AJ obsesses over every detail of his vision.

Paramour Lyric Theatre Produced by Cirque du Soleil Theatrical Music by Bob & Bill; Co-Composer: Andreas Carlsson; Lyrics by Andreas Carlsson; Musical Director: Seth Stachowski Creative Guide: Jean-François Bouchard; Creative Director: Jean-François Bouchard; Directed by Philippe Decouflé; Associate Creative Director: West Hyler, Shana Carroll and Pascale Henrot; Scene Director: West Hyler; Acrobatic Designer: Shana Carroll; Choreographer: Shana Carroll and Daphné Mauger Scenic Design by Jean Rabasse; Costume Design by Philippe Guillotel; Lighting Design by Patrice Besombes; Sound Design by John Shivers; Projection Design by Olivier Simola and Christophe Waksmann; Hair Design by Josh Marquette; Make-Up Design by Nathalie Gagné; Props Design by Anne-Séguin Poirier President and Managing Director, Cirque du Soleil Theatrical: Scott Zeiger; Executive Producer: Jayna Neagle; General Manager: Bespoke Theatricals Technical Supervisor: David Benken; Production Stage Manager: Claudette Waddle; Stage Manager: Timothy R. Semon Musical Coordinator: Howard Joines; Band Leader: Seth Stachowski; Associate Conductor: James Lutz; Trumpet/Flugelhorn: Alex Bender; Acoustic/Electric Basses: Benjamin Campbell; Drums/Percussion: Benoit Clement; Cello: Louise Dubin; Percussion: Aaron Guidry; Trombone/Bass Trombone: James Lutz; Violin/Mandolin: Paul Woodiel; Keyboard/Guitar/Banjo/Saxophone: Seth Stachowski Acrobatic Casting: Cirque du Soleil Casting; Casting New York: Telsey + Company and Cesar A. Rocha, CSA; General Press Representative: Boneau / Bryan-Brown; Marketing: Kristina Heney; Flying Machine Design and Choreography: Raffaello D'Andrea and Verity Studios; Acrobatic Performance Designer: Boris Verkhovsky; Rigging and Acrobatic Equipment Designer: Pierre Masse; Artistic Director/Acrobatic Coach: Eric Heppell; Dance Captain: Bruce Weber Cast Jeremy Kushnier A.J. Golden Ruby Lewis Broadway debut Indigo James Ryan Vona Joey Green Kat Cunning Broadway debut Lila Sarah MeParamour MUSICALORIGINAL LYRIC THEATRE 213 W. 42ND ST. Jeremy Kushnier A.J. Ruby Lewis Broadway debut Indigo Ryan Vona Joey Tom Ammirati Broadway debut Andrew Atherton Broadway debut Kevin Atherton Broadway debut Lee Brearley Broadway debut Yanelis Brooks Broadway debut Sam Charlton Broadway debut Martin Charrat Broadway debut Nate Cooper Broadway debut Katrina Cunningham Broadway debut Myriam Deraiche Broadway debut Kyle Driggs Broadway debut Jeremias Faganel Broadway debut Amber Fulljames Broadway debut Steven Trumon Gray Broadway debut Tomasz Jadach Broadway debut Rafal Kaszubowski Broadway debut Reed Kelly Denis Kibenko Broadway debut Joe McAdam Broadway debut Raven McRae Sarah Meahl Broadway debut Amber J. Merrick Broadway debut Sheridan Mouawad Broadway debut Amber Pickens Broadway debut Justin Prescott Fletcher Blair Sanchez Broadway debut Matthieu Sennacherib Broadway debut Bret Shuford Blakely Slaybaugh Broadway debut Sam Softich Broadway debut Amiel Soicher Broadway debut Amber van Wijk Broadway debut Bruce Weber Broadway debut Tomasz Wilkosz Broadway debut Produced by Cirque du Soleil Theatrical Music by Bob & Bill; Lyrics by Bob & Bill; Co-Composer: Andreas Carlsson Directed by Philippe Decouflé; Choreographed by Daphné Mauger; Scene Director: West Hyler; Acrobatic Choreographer: Shana Carroll Creative Guide: Jean-François Bouchard; Scenic Design by Jean Rabasse; Costume Design by Philippe Guillotel; Lighting Design by Patrice Besombes; Sound Design by John Shivers; Projection Design by Olivier Simola and Christophe Waksmann; Make-Up Design by Nathalie Gagné Acrobatic Performance Designer: Boris Verkhovsky; Rigging and Acrobatic Equipment Designer: Pierre Masse; Associate Creative Director: Pascale Henrot and West Hyler; Casting - Montreal: Pavel Kotov; Casting - New York: Telsey + Company; Press Representative: Boneau / Bryan-Brown

The story though is secondary because it really serves to move us from performance to performance. Cirque du Soleil knows its audience is there to watch acrobats, tumblers, jugglers, and gymnasts. Paramour also, features several sequences where the musical becomes a “live-film”. Camera men follow the performers and screens built into and around the stage show performances as if they were on film but they aren’t all prepackaged shots. In all but a few situations they shoot the moments live and add special effects, technicolor or rotoscoping into the live scene as you watch it happen. The effect is often extremely fascinating, although in some instances it feels like it goes on for too long or isn’t utilized in the best possible way.

There are moments when the combination of musical and circus really work well together like in AJ’s dream sequence or the performance of Love Triangle. The reason these elements work is that the circus performers and the main performers are on stage together and no one has to get out of each other’s way. Everyone shines in their capacities as singers, acrobats, aerialists and trapeze artists. These pieces highlight what I was hoping to get from the majority of the show which suffers from the separation of song and circus.

Photo: PARAMOUR on Broadway - A Cirque du Soleil Musical; Cast: Indigo: Ruby Lewis A.J.: Jeremy Kushnier Joey: Ryan Vona B-Roll video shoot photographed: Monday, May 2, 2016; 10:30 AM at the Lyric Theatre/Broadway, New York; Photograph: © 2016 RICHARD TERMINE PHOTO CREDIT - RICHARD TERMINE

This is a production that based on its reputation promises spectacle. I went with someone who’d never seen Cirque du Soleil before. They were very happy to see the circus acts and less impressed with the musical numbers except for the incredible voice of Ruby Lewis. Not that the men in Paramour aren’t exceptional singers but there are a few showcase moments for the power of Ruby’s voice and she is incredible.

Should you see Paramour? I think there are some fantastic elements to this show. The spectacle of the piece is where it shines and audiences will find themselves cheering during aerial ballet and quadruple flip somersaults. It works best when the music and circus work together. That said the songs won’t live with you forever. The story is not world changing but Ruby Lewis is a standout in her Broadway premiere and I think she’ll become a Broadway star.

If you are in the Tri-State area in October, Cirque du Soleil is bringing their Steampunk themed show Kurios to Randall’s Island. I look forward to being able to attend that show and discuss it when I get to see it.

  • Mr. Khon
Mr. Khon http://www.g33kwatch.com/ <![CDATA[The NYU Student Game Show 2016]]> http://www.g33kwatch.com/?p=15695 2016-05-26T17:10:41Z 2016-05-26T17:10:41Z Continue reading

On May 19, 2016 I attended an event at the Metrotech Center in Brooklyn, NY. This was an evening dedicated to the showcasing the work of the BFA and MFA students of New York University’s Game Developer Program. The evening was an opportunity to play interactive experiments, works in progress and completed games that are currently or will soon be on sale. The event was 5 hours long but it was not nearly enough time to try and play all of the games available. I will highlight as many of the games as I can that I was lucky enough to try and enjoy. I have made a short video report with some highlights as well.

Student Show 2016

Stage Fright – Brian Kang, Elizabeth Dantzler, Larry Shen and Mauricio Juliano

Stage Fright

What seems to be a piano based rhythm game hides elements of horror gaming. Stage Fright’s concept is that the player tries their best to play the piano while experiencing sound crashes, inversions and even the presence of a ghostly spirit that all try to distract and frighten you from completing the song. The game becomes scarier the better you do instead of rewarding you. It was a lot of fun to try and stay focused on the game while all of the noises, lights and visuals worked against you.

Download the Beta Version of the Game

CLYPH – Seth S. Scott

CLYPH is a visually interesting throwback adventure/explorer game full of unique puzzles. Your character is exploring a temple but in order to progress it requires specific button presses while exiting rooms based on puzzles that are hidden in plain site.

CMYK – Seth S. Scott

The other game in the space for this developer is a mobile game called CMYK. This simple addictive game is hopefully soon to be released. Players press color coded buttons that fire orbs at colored lines as they descend from the top of the screen. If you fire the wrong color the bar begins to crash down but you can keep the game from ending if you press the right color before it reaches the bottom of the screen. The game also has a great soundtrack and everyone who tried it said they wanted to buy it. Its a ton of fun and could easily be the kind of time sink that makes offices and schools less productive.

Iridescence (Working Title) – Oliver Garcia-Borg

One of the more engrossing “games” of the evening was Iridescence. A digital toy with a number of different scenes in which it can be manipulated in various ways that change the shape, color, size, etc. Its akin to games like Rez or Child of Eden but without the music. The idea according to Oliver is that he’d like people to play with it and add their own music, scenes and designs. Let them take it and play with it and then see what they create with the game. Then they can add their own music.

If you’d like to play with an earlier version of the toy you can find it here.

Cyclops Look Away – NOCA

Designed as an experiment in the juxtaposition of cuteness with the ideas of body horror. Cyclops Look Away was a simple game in its very early stages that felt like it could become something you keep going back to on your tablet. It was weird and gross but also kind of cute and adorable. You play a cyclops attempting to eat honeycomb while bees attempt to sting your eye. If you stare down the bees they move away but you have to concentrate on several different things at the same time or they’ll gang up on you.

Every Creeping Thing – Alex Duncan

ECThing - Maggot

The thesis project is a very different experience from everything else at the event that evening. The idea is to make a game from the point of view of things like maggots and flies. Essentially the player is navigating through a space from the point of view of these creatures. It was an intriguing piece of art and definitely not something I would have expected before seeing it.

Screen Shot 2016-05-26 at 12.52.29 AM

Dire – Tony Kao, Terry Li Yixuan, Randy Sebella, Eliran Vegh, and Graham Southern

This was a cell shaded on rails survival driving game. Players attempt to survive the forward facing obstacles and use the mirrors to try and dodge the attacks coming from behind. Dire was placed into the school’s Incubator program. This allows the students the funding necessary to continue working on the game in the hopes of making it viable for launch by next year. The color scheme and the headset made me feel nostalgic for the Nintendo Virtual Boy.

Download the playable game trailer here.

Infiniball – Denver Coulson

Take Soccer add Tron and multiverse theory and you get the idea behind Infiniball. Its a game where you play as a ball and try to bounce another ball into your opponent’s goal. The thing is the goals are domes and the game plays out in an infinite loop all around you. So if the ball in the reflection is easier for you to get than the one your opponent has just move towards that one and it becomes a live ball for you to play with. I played this game at the end of the night after my camera was out of memory but look it up when it launches it’s a great little fun game.

3 Nights in Chicago – CS Wallace, Ben Poland, Carl Farra, and Angela Lee

3NightsInChi-2A multiplayer noir themed heist game. Players control gangs attempting to rob the same banks at the same time. Each level has multiple safes, players can attack one another and if you don’t escape in your vehicle you can be arrested by the police and lose all of the loot. Its extremely fun and had the feel of a professional game. It would be great for parties.

Epitaph – Jinjin, Wyatt Yeong, Kailin Zhu, and Jonathan Moormann
Epitaph 1

A unique 2D fighting game where you portray 3 different Reapers who fight to collect souls. The first team to collect 5 souls wins. That said the strategy behind the game is that you are attempting to kill your opponents but they get stronger every time they die and are reborn. So there is some strategy to allowing someone to kill you in certain situations in order to make yourself stronger.

Epitaph 2

There were a ton more games to play and I didn’t even get to experience any of the tabletop gaming. This event was a lot of fun and felt like the first time I went to PAX East and got to play the indie games in the showcase. Obviously, there were shorter lines and a lot more of the games shown were in development or experimental. My only disappointment, and this is not really a disappointment, is that if there was anything on the level of 2014’s Lie To The Devil concept at the event I did not get to see or play it. There were some 18+ only games that I did not get to see as they were on a schedule and we just didn’t know the sheer volume of games available at the show and were slightly overwhelmed at first. I did see a lot of fun and innovative gaming displays. Many of which are commercially viable. That said there were some very different and unique ideas in the show and this is an event that I hope to attend again in the future.

  • Mr. Khon


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Samsung Galaxy Camera officially in the Philippines, will retail for Php 23,990

We’re at the Galaxy Note II launch tonight, and along with the large, 5.5-inch smartphone, Samsung Philippines has decided to launch the Galaxy Camera. We’re not going to bore you with the specs (especially since we’ve already detailed it right here).

We all know you guys are looking for the price of the device. Well, here it is: the Galaxy Camera will officially retail for Php 23,990, which is pretty awesome if you ask us. For that price, you’re getting a quad-core equipped Android camera and almost a smartphone (remember this thing has 3G and WiFi radios), along with a 16-megapixel 1/2.3-inch BSI (back-illuminated sensor) CMOS. How’s that for awesome?

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Sony opens doors to 6th concept store in SM MOA

Have a hankering for Sony gadgets and are near SM MOA? Well, you’re in luck. Sony recently opened their sixth concept store at the Cyberzone in SM’s MOA. Located at unit NP202 (right above McDonald’s) the new concept store brings to consumers all of Sony’s latest product offerings which include different VAIO, Alpha and Walkman models.

“The opening of the new VAIO store is part of our expansion initiative to bring top-of-the-line consumer technology products to more ubanites. SM MOA is a strategic location due its bustling retail landscape featuring diverse offerings. We are very thrilled to be present in this retail mecca and showcase our products,” says Twinkle Rafael, Director for Retail Management, Sony Philippines.

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WHat's up all you happy Gaian Peoples!!!! Me real name is Ed.I'm A laid back person,yadda,yadda,yadda. Oh hell!!! if you wanna know about me just hit me up.

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My journal contains my creations and characters I've thought up over the years,my likes and of course my personal thoughts and feelings.

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GummeyBear Report | 03/28/2011 1:23 am
heya hope you had a brill birthday
Falco Pro Report | 08/16/2010 2:15 pm
Happy bday bro
Goti-girl Report | 08/12/2009 12:15 am
we fail at life D: Hahha
Goti-girl Report | 08/10/2009 11:29 pm
I do well sir. How are you doing? I actually made a mule account named Goti-fox hehe

I couldnt remember the name to my other account I made D:
It was sad. So I hadda make a new one.

Falco Pro Report | 06/28/2009 12:03 am
Wuddup Jay. Its me BIGALLAN.
Elegant _Destruction23 Report | 05/03/2009 6:27 am
omfg thanks for buying!!!^.^
Goti-girl Report | 03/13/2009 12:50 am
nice comment. just lol. silly boy. i get your comments texted to my phone. and i'll get a random text in the middle of the day that just says GAIAONLINE JASON SAGARA- "lol" hahaha
Goti-girl Report | 03/11/2009 10:55 pm
hahaha. it really doesnt match at all. I wanted to work to get a whole new avy so I would have something to work to gain money for. but
1. i was too lazy
2. i couldnt find anything that looked good
3. I would have just sold stuff to get it instead of actually earning money. haha

since i have quite a bit of money in items it's easy to just want to sell one item to get the money for another. and I dont like keeping my net worth the same. DUH
Goti-girl Report | 03/11/2009 7:58 am
hahaha. XD I totally should. XD
i make a sexy fox HELLLAR
Goti-girl Report | 03/10/2009 10:17 pm
Yep. Mine was like the best. hahaha biggrin I WIN

How you been lately! We totally neeeeeeda talk more... I wish I got on gaia more often. but I tend to get on and get off becuase I am bored. hahaha plus I dont get online much since I got a phone. everyone I talk to, I just text. haha

But yeah. D:
I feel like making a new avy. Woop.

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Streetman's four TDs spark Commerce, 35-17

COMMERCE - Quarterback Cody Streetman was an unlikely hero for Commerce as the Tigers stayed undefeated in Region 8-A with a 35-17 win over Athens Christian.

October 09, 2009 | By Brian Chmielewski | High schools

Gainesville breezes to 63-0 win over East Hall

It goes without saying that Gainesville has been dominating this season.

October 09, 2009 | Katie B. Davis | High schools

Mistakes costly for White County in 42-21 loss to Creekview

CLEVELAND - Sometimes when things go bad, they go real bad in a hurry, and with it goes the composure of the entire team.

October 09, 2009 | By Nick French | High schools

High school softball: Creekview wins region title on pinch-hit walkoff

One region championship is good, but two in as many years is great.

October 09, 2009 | By Charles Phelps | High schools

Sims selected for All-Star game

Gainesville High senior quarterback Blake Sims was selected Friday to play in the Offense-Defense All-American Bowl on Jan. 2 at Doug Shaw Stadium in Myrtle Beach, S.C.

October 09, 2009 | From staff reports | High schools

Creekview, West Forsyth surge to front at Area tournament

OAKWOOD - The Area 7-AAA volleyball tournament is matching up with remarkable accuracy to the seedings following Thursday's opening day of action at both Flowery Branch and Johnson High. The top four seeds could be the ones to secure the four playoff spots to the area state sectionals.

October 08, 2009 | Bill Murphy | High schools

Falcons, Trojans game not a must-win

Must-win is a phrase that gets tossed around a lot.

October 08, 2009 | Brent Holloway | High schools

High school scoreboard: Lakeview Academy's season ends in tournament

The Lakeview Academy volleyball team was knocked out of Area 8-AA's Tournament with a loss in the first match to Prince Avenue (25-17, 25-12), a win in their second match against Tallulah Falls (25-14,24-26,25-17) and then a deciding loss to North Oconee (25-15, 25-23) on Thursday night in Athens.

October 08, 2009 | From staff reports | High schools

Trojans ready for next test

North Hall's football team has snapped back into shape like a rubber band this season.

October 08, 2009 | Bill Murphy | High schools

High school football: Week 7 previews

Chestatee at Gilmer

October 08, 2009 | From staff reports | High schools

Creekview, White County to meet again in Region 7-AAA softball title game

So far for the White County softball team, history is repeating itself.

October 08, 2009 | Katie B. Davis | High schools

West Hall advances to state softball tourney

DAHLONEGA - For the sixth straight year, the West Hall softball team is going to the Class AAA state playoffs.

October 07, 2009 | Katie B. Davis | High schools

High school scoreboard: Leopards rally past Jefferson

Ashley Morris scored the game-winning run in the eighth inning to lead Banks County past Jefferson, 1-0 on Wednesday in the first round of the Region 8-AA softball tournament in Homer.

October 07, 2009 | From staff reports | High schools

Gainesville remains No. 1 in power ratings

Fans we are in for some great football in the last four weeks of the regular season. I went to the Brickyard on Friday night to watch an improving Trojan team take on a very good White County team in a subregion game which would have major consequences for both teams.

October 07, 2009 | By Chuck Clausen For The Times | High schools

Top three teams roll in Region 7-AAA softball tourney

Ask any softball coach in Region 7-AAA and they'll say that Creekview is the team to beat, and then the remaining three state playoff spots are up for grabs.

October 07, 2009 | Jonathan Zopf | High schools

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Region 7-AAAA tournament: West Hall girls take down Chestatee 48-38 for second straight region title

Bryan Richerson spotted something in the rafters when he recently took stock of the West Hall High gym.

February 11, 2017 | Marcus Rodrigue | High schools

Region 8-A tournament: Lakeview basketball teams advance to championship for second-straight season

Christen Copeland was already quite familiar with Lakeview Academy's Region 8-A semifinal opponent.

February 10, 2017 | Sarah Woodall | High schools

Region 7-AAAA tournament: Chestatee girls advance to semifinals with thrilling 46-43 win

Entering Friday's Region 7-AAAA tournament semifinal, the Chestatee girls basketball team hadn't played in 10 days.

February 10, 2017 | Marcus Rodrigue | High schools

Region tournament semifinals: Gainesville girls move on to face Winder-Barrow for 8-AAAAAA title

Taylor Hawks poured in 18 points for the Gainesville High girls as they topped Dacula 49-40 in the Region 8-AAAAAA semifinals on Friday at Apalachee ...

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College-Educated Americans Less Engaged in Jobs

College-Educated Americans Less Engaged in Jobs

by Shane J. Lopez and Preety Sidhu

For college-educated workers, engagement varies greatly by occupation

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- In the U.S., higher educational attainment is not related to workplace engagement. In fact, American workers with a college or postgraduate degree are slightly less likely than those with a high school diploma or less to be engaged at work.

Engagement by Education Level

Employed Americans of all ages with college degrees are less likely to be engaged at work than are their respective peers with a high school education or less, so their engagement is not related to being a recent graduate.

College-educated American workers' lower engagement mainly stems from being less likely to strongly agree with the statement "at work I have the opportunity to do what I do best every day." Americans with some college education or a college degree were also less likely to use their strengths at work.

The engagement findings by education level are based on Americans' assessments of workplace elements with proven linkages to performance outcomes, including productivity, customer service, quality, retention, safety, and profit. These data are based on surveys of more than 150,000 American adults, conducted as part of Gallup Daily tracking from January through December 2012. Overall, 30% of American employees are engaged at work, according to Gallup's State of the American Workplace report.

Gallup's employee engagement index categorizes workers as engaged, not engaged, or actively disengaged. Engaged employees are involved in and enthusiastic about their work. Those who are not engaged are satisfied with their workplaces, but are not emotionally connected to them -- and these employees are less likely to put in discretionary effort. Those workers categorized as actively disengaged are emotionally disconnected from their work and workplace, and they jeopardize the performance of their teams.

Engagement of College-Educated Workers Varies by Job Type

Americans with a college degree who work in a managerial, executive, or official role at work are, by far, the most likely to be engaged, at 32.5%. Engagement drops significantly among college-educated employees working at all other jobs when compared with their colleagues with lower levels of education -- except installation or repair work. Engagement is lowest (16.0%) for college-educated Americans employed as transportation workers.

Workplace Engagement for College Graduates by Job Type

This pattern is not unique to the college educated, however. Americans, regardless of education level, are most likely to be engaged at work if they are in a managerial position. Engagement data by occupation including all education levels is available on page 2.

An increasingly educated workforce is expected to bring many benefits to the U.S. economy, but it appears that just having a college education isn't necessarily enough to feel engaged on the job. As workplace engagement is itself a key to economic growth, a workforce with so many highly educated workers who are either not engaged or actively disengaged is bad for the U.S. economy.

Figuring out why college-educated Americans are less engaged is important to improving the economy, but also the educational system. Ensuring colleges are preparing students to get jobs in which they will feel engaged is just as crucial as urging employers to create engaging workplaces.

Half of recent graduates are in jobs that don't require a degree, according to a 2012 Gallup/Lumina Foundation poll. This is likely a contributing factor to lower engagement. Building a better pipeline between colleges and workplaces in the U.S. is key. And, even though college-educated Americans may struggle more to find an engaging job, a degree may allow them to avoid becoming "trapped" in a bad job by providing more employment options. Thus, employers and managers should take note and assess the engagement status of their college-educated workers to see if there are ways to improve the work environment and increase the engagement of these highly educated employees.

Survey Methods

Results are based on telephone interviews conducted as part of Gallup Daily tracking Jan. 1-Dec. 31, 2012, with a random sample of 151,284 adults, aged 18 and older, living in all 50 U.S. states and the District of Columbia, selected using random-digit-dial sampling.

For results based on the total sample of national adults, one can say with 95% confidence that the maximum margin of sampling error is ±1 percentage point.

The margin of sampling error for most states is ±1 to ±2 percentage points, but is as high as ±4 points for states with smaller population sizes such as Alaska, Rhode Island, Vermont, Wyoming, North Dakota, South Dakota, Delaware, and Hawaii.

Interviews are conducted with respondents on landline telephones and cellular phones, with interviews conducted in Spanish for respondents who are primarily Spanish-speaking. Each sample includes a minimum quota of 400 cellphone respondents and 600 landline respondents per 1,000 national adults, with additional minimum quotas among landline respondents by region. Landline telephone numbers are chosen at random among listed telephone numbers. Cellphone numbers are selected using random-digit-dial methods. Landline respondents are chosen at random within each household on the basis of which member had the most recent birthday.

Samples are weighted by gender, age, race, Hispanic ethnicity, education, region, adults in the household, and phone status (cellphone only/landline only/both, cellphone mostly, and having an unlisted landline number). Demographic weighting targets are based on the March 2012 Current Population Survey figures for the aged 18 and older non-institutionalized population living in U.S. telephone households. All reported margins of sampling error include the computed design effects for weighting.

In addition to sampling error, question wording and practical difficulties in conducting surveys can introduce error or bias into the findings of public opinion polls.

For more details on Gallup's polling methodology, visit

Workplace Engagement by Occupation Type

Gallup World Headquarters, 901 F Street, Washington, D.C., 20001, U.S.A
+1 202.715.3030


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TEXAS CITY – Officials overseeing the cleanup from an oil spill that happened a month ago near the Texas City Dike expect cleanup efforts will wrap up this week.

It was March 22 when a barge carrying about a million gallons of heavy fuel oil collided with a cargo ship at a point where the Houston and Texas City ship channels intersect with the Intracoastal Waterway. More than 168,000 gallons — or 4,000 barrels — of the sticky oil spilled from the breached hull of the barge. The oil slick drifted from Galveston Bay into the Gulf of Mexico, coming ashore along the east end of Galveston before shifting down the Texas Coast.

The spill response, which at one point topped more than 800 workers and volunteers, focused on keeping the oil away from wildlife and cleaning up what did come ashore.

Last week, Seawolf Park and East Beach in Galveston as well as the last two miles of the Texas City Dike reopened to the public. All were closed so crews could clean up oil.

Crews continue to clean up oil that washed up south of Matagorda Island. That effort is expected to be done by the end of the week, U.S. Coast Guard Petty Officer Amanda Emery said Monday.

What’s left to be determined is who is responsible for the collision between the Kirby Inland Marine-owned barge and tugboat and the cargo ship Summer Wind.

Since Kirby was hauling the oil, the company is listed as the “responsible party,” meaning it is footing the bill for the cleanup.

A Coast Guard investigation will determine who was at fault in the collision. That investigation could take several more months, officials said.

Coming Wednesday

What does last month’s oil spill do to the image of Texas City?

Coming Sunday

Oil Spill FAQ: A breakdown of the lingering questions about last month’s oil spill

Contact Mainland Editor T.J. Aulds at 409-683-5334 or tjaulds@galvnews.com.

(1) comment

Mike Leahy

USCG investigation is noted. Will there not be an NTSB investigation, as well?

USCG findings typically follow in close accord with the NTSB report, making that investigation the definitive one.

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The wall02_1440x900.jpg file you have requested: Media / Desktops / Widescreen / 1440x900 / Iron Grip: Warlord Wallpaper 2 (1440x900) - 409.66kb is not available. Perhaps try browsing all files for the game Iron Grip: Warlord and upload any files you want to share or are missing. This is the only information we could locate:

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The file you have requested: Official Patches / Far Cry Patch Pack - 181.28mb is not available. Perhaps try browsing all files for the game Far Cry and upload any files you want to share or are missing. This is the only information we could locate:

This package is brought to you by --RaDaManT GaMinG-- www.radamantgaming.0pays.comAnd the --RaDaManT BanD-- www.radamanthome.0pays.com2004 Crytek. All Rights Reserved. Published by Ubisoft Entertainment.Far Cry,Ubisoft,,and the Ubi This file is for all of you who are unsure of which patch version to download. It includes everything you need to update your game to the latest stable release in one single exe file so no longer searching for the correct patch version.

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Dead Space 3

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Dead Space 3 brings Isaac Clarke and merciless soldier, John Carver, on a journey across space to discover the source of the Necromorph outbreak. Crash-landed on the frozen planet of Tau Volantis, the pair must comb the harsh environment for raw materials and scavenged parts. Isaac will then put his engineering skills to the ultimate test to create and customize weapons and survival tools. The ice planet holds the key to ending the Necromorph plague forever, but first the team must overcome avalanches, treacherous ice-climbs, and the violent wilderness. Facing deadlier evolved enemies and the brutal elements, the unlikely pair must work together to save mankind from the impending apocalypse.

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  • BurnedHero BurnedHero

    how can i install the suits addons?

  • realballermark realballermark

    how to install the modes into dead space 3 game directory?? pls tell me?

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  • TheUnbeholden TheUnbeholden

    Awakened is the first story DLC pack for Dead Space 3, and apparently the last. It has that dementia/hallucinatory affects that Dead Space 2 have, creepy atmosphere and really memorable. I wonder why Dead Space 3 didn't continue this story/gameplay element.. or expand on it. It just seems so much scarier and stranger that we haven't really seen much of outside of Dead Space.

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Leaping Lizards! Global Star Software’s Scaler Now Available at North American Retail Outlets
New York – October 20, 2004 – Global Star Software, a publishing label of Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. (NASDAQ: TTWO) and Artificial Mind and Movement announced today that Scaler for the PlayStationÃ‚Â®2 computer entertainment system and XboxÃ‚Â® video game system from Microsoft is now available in stores throughout North America.

“Scaler represents Global Star’s continuing commitment to releasing great, aggressively-priced titles,” said Christoph Hartmann, Senior Vice President of Publishing at Global Star Software. “Scaler is action-packed, challenging and has more gameplay than many full-priced games you’ll find this holiday season.”

"Scaler is first and foremost a great platform-action game," said Remi Racine, CEO and Executive Producer, Artificial Mind and Movement. "At a time when games of this nature are skewing towards an older, more mature audience, we’re pleased to produce a title that’s safe and fun for the whole family."

Scaler puts gamers in the shoes of Bobby Jenkins, a 12-year-old who stumbles upon his evil next door neighbor's plot to use a mutant lizard army to destroy the world. Caught, Bobby is zapped by a bizarre bolt of energy and transformed into his shape-shifting alter-ego Scaler. With no way to call for back up, Scaler has to defeat all of his enemies or risk spending the rest of his life in reptile exile!

Scaler for the PlayStationÃ‚Â®2 computer entertainment system and XboxÃ‚Â® video game system from Microsoft is rated ‘E’ for everyone and is available now for a suggested retail price of $19.99. A version for the Nintendo GameCube™ will be released in early November. For more information on Scaler, please visit http://www.globalstarsoftware.com/.

About Take-Two Interactive Software
Headquartered in New York City, Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. is an integrated global developer, marketer, distributor and publisher of interactive entertainment software games and accessories for the PC, PlayStationÃ‚Â® game console, PlayStationÃ‚Â®2 computer entertainment system, XboxÃ‚Â®, Nintendo GameCube™ and Game BoyÃ‚Â® Advance. The Company publishes and develops products through its wholly owned labels Rockstar Games and Global Star Software; and distributes products in North America through its Jack of All Games subsidiary. Take-Two also manufactures and markets video game accessories in Europe, North America and the Asia Pacific region through its Joytech subsidiary. The Company maintains sales and marketing offices in Cincinnati, New York, Toronto, London, Paris, Munich, Madrid, Vienna, Milan, Sydney, Breda (Netherlands) and Auckland. Take-Two’s common stock is publicly traded on NASDAQ under the symbol TTWO. For more corporate and product information please visit our website at www.take2games.com.

All trademarks and copyrights contained herein are the property of their respective holders.
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Title: Scaler (Multi-Platform)


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Jul 2010

HP Envy Review

Pasted Graphic
We purchased a HP Envy 15-1067NR from the on-line Microsoft Store back in June. The specs on the Envy are impressive: Core i7 quad-core processor, 15.6” 1920x1080 LED display, 6GB RAM, 500GB hard drive, ATI Mobility Radeon HD 4830 with HDMI output, Gigabit Ethernet, Wifi G/N, and Beats sound. All of this in a thin 5.2 lb package! It was a very impressive laptop spec-wise and we were able to snag a 40% discount coupon for the Microsoft Store which made the deal even better. The coupon was accepted on checkout and the laptop was promptly shipped.

Our first impression was good as the packaging of the Envy was spiffy compared to the usual dull PC boxes. The laptop had a nice overall appearance with its magnesium skin and it booted up and was ready to use in short order. The LED display is very nice (as good as any we have seen) and the performance seemed all-around snappy.

Then as we began to actually put the laptop to use we started noticing the shortcomings. First, the laptop would get really hot especially in the keyboard area. Under heavy processing load it would get quite hot and uncomfortable to the touch. It never overheated to the point of shutting off as the magnesium skin seemed to conduct and dissipate the heat well, but it definitely was a heat producer. We also found that the touchpad was inconsistent. At times the pad would respond as expected and then sometimes it would miss our gestures -- it was not as consistent in response as the Apple MacBooks for example.

Some customers of the Envy have reported problems with the “blank screen” issue but we never experienced that in a few days of use. Some also complained that the palm-rest area around the trackpad was inadequate and would “creak” and “pop” with palm pressure. We noticed some of that but did not find it to be a critical issue.

However, the issue that resulted in our returning the laptop for refund was related to the battery. The built-in battery was insufficient for this laptop as it was only possible to squeeze about 2 hours operation from it (even less under moderate processing load). The package included a second “slice” battery that was supposed to attached to the bottom of the laptop. This slice battery added about 2 or 3 lbs of weight which negated the weight advantage of the laptop itself. When we actually tried to use the slice battery we found that it was a poorly engineered fit. The battery did not positively engage with the laptop body and it allowed the contacts to move and apparently short-circuit in use. We found that the movement of the slice battery sometimes caused the laptop to lose power and immediately shutoff. One such shutoff resulted in corruption of the hard drive to the point that it was not recoverable and we were forced to completely restore the hard drive from backup.

When we contacted HP Support we were told the laptop would have to be shipped to HP for “repair”. At this point we decided to return the laptop to the Microsoft Store as they have a 14 day full return policy. The Microsoft Store support personnel were very helpful and responsive and the return was promptly processed with full credit issued. We have nothing but positive praise for the Microsoft Store.

We wanted to like the HP Envy. It was a lot of laptop for a very reasonable price. In the end we decided to pay the premium for an Apple 17” MacBook Pro. We find the MacBook Pro compares in raw performance to the Envy but it does not suffer the heat issues and the battery life is far superior. However, it comes with a price!

New Website Design and Blog

We have redesigned our GamesForOne website layout to match the new Mac and Windows product sites that have been up for some time. We hope the new layout is clear and easy to navigate. Please send us your suggestions if you feel something important is missing.

This new blog is intended to keep our customers informed of the latest news. It will also host our general observations about the Internet software business (including business and development issues) with all the ups and downs we encounter in our daily operations. We hope you enjoy our posts!

Special Summer Price for Solitaire Plus! for Windows

It has been a long, hot summer already and our Windows version needs some sales. Therefore, for a limited time you can purchase Solitaire Plus! for Windows for $12.95. That’s a 35% off our regular price. This special price won’t last forever, and we do not plan to post the date it will end, so please order now!

FileKicker Issues and The Power of Google

In order to serve the demand generated by prospective customers downloading our demo from various 3rd party websites, including Apple Downloads, we use a download bandwidth provider called “FileKicker”. FileKicker is a subsidiary of a Digital River which is a large company with a strong presence in the Internet download market -- including managing downloads for the on-line Microsoft Store. You would think they would be able to run a file distribution service.

However, in December ’09 as well as the weekend of July 10th, one or more files were allowed onto the FileKicker domain that Google deemed “malware”. Apparently it is Google policy to flag an entire domain as a possible malware source regardless of whether every file on that domain is suspect or not. Our files were never compromised, but our links were flagged by Google nonetheless. Our customers wishing to download the demo/trial of our games were greeted with a big RED warning page with a scary “Get me out of here” button.

We were disappointed when this initially occurred with FileKicker in Dec ’09. We were shocked when it happened again in July. Obviously it is not an acceptable situation for us. We apologize to any customers that were confused by the Google warning.

We quickly changed all the download links on GamesForOne sites to Amazon Cloudfront where they still remain. However, that was not before our order volume for the weekend of July 10th was severely diminished because we were unable to change the download link posted on the Apple Downloads site.

Consider the power that Google is granted when browser developers include this Google feature. We have never had a domain we own flagged so we do not know the level of detail that Google provides to webmasters as far as what is deemed malware, however this info should be very detailed indeed in order to wield that kind of power over website owners. Frankly, Google has the power to put you out of business if they flag you for possibly capricious reasons.
However, consider the power that Google is granted when browser developers include this Google feature. Google can


text:
Shippin' Out June 25-29: Transformers, Harry Potter, Ratatouille

Movie-based games headline a heavy week of releases alongside Pokemon's Wii debut and 2K Games' The Darkness for PS3, Xbox 360.

F-Zero X
Call for Heroes: Pompolic Wars

With the summer movie season in full swing, publishers are trying to turn big-screen thrills into small-screen experiences. Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End, Spider-Man 3, and Shrek the Third games have commanded a good chunk of new release shelf space in recent months, and they'll be joined by more film-to-game adaptations this week.

While none of their associated movies are out yet, Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, The Transformers, and Ratatouille will all arrive in game retailers this week for a plethora of platforms. THQ is even bringing games for Pixar's Ratatouille to some legacy consoles, as it will be an infrequent new release for the original Xbox, the GameCube, and the Game Boy Advance.

Movies aren't the only fertile gaming ground this week, as Nintendo is releasing its first online-enabled Wii game with Pokemon Battle Revolution, 2K Games brings The Darkness to the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3, and 2K Sports exercises its Major League Baseball license for the multiplatform arcade-style action of The BIGS. A few older games are getting another shot, as Rainbow Six Vegas makes its belated PS3 appearance, while Final Fantasy Anniversary Edition brings the oft-revisited role-playing game to the PlayStation Portable.

On the downloadable front, the Wii boasts Nintendo 64 racer F-Zero X, Super Nintendo brawler Street Fighter II Turbo: Hyper Fighting, and TurboGrafx-16 side-scroller China Warrior. Meanwhile, Microsoft is touting the German board game Carcassonne on the Xbox 360 as its Xbox Live Arcade release of the week.

This week's new releases are listed below (list taken from retailer information--actual dates may vary).

JUNE 25, 2007
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (Wii, Xbox 360, PS3, PSP, PS2, DS, PC)
The BIGS (Wii, Xbox 360, PS3, PS2, PSP)
Pokemon Battle Revolution (Wii)
The Darkness (PS3, Xbox 360)
Hour of Victory (Xbox 360)
Ratatouille (Wii, Xbox 360, Xbox, DS, PS2, PSP, GC, GBA)
F-Zero X (Wii)
China Warrior (Wii)
Street Fighter II Turbo: Hyper Fighting (Wii)
The Adventures of Darwin (PS2)
Touchmaster DS (DS)
Deer Drive (PC)
Defender of the Crown: Heroes Live Forever (PC)
Call for Heroes: Pompolic Wars (PC)

JUNE 26, 2007
Transformers: The Game (Xbox 360, PS3, PS2, Wii)
Final Fantasy Anniversary Edition (PSP)
Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Vegas (PS3)
Overlord (Xbox 360, PC)
Steel Horizon (PSP)
Nervous Brickdown (DS)
Hoshigami: Ruining Blue Earth Remix (DS)
Chicken Shoot (Wii)
Super Collapse 3 (PSP)
Traxxpad (PSP)
GrimGrimoire (PS2)
Lost Planet: Extreme Condition (PC)
Seven Kingdoms: Conquest (PC)
Driver: Parallel Lines (Wii, PC)
Horsez (GBA)

JUNE 27, 2007
Carcassonne (Xbox 360)

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TODO alt text

Blazing Angels 2: Secret Missions of WWII review

Some secrets are best kept secret

  • Numerous planes at your disposal
  • No more crappy minigames
  • Waiting for Ace Combat

  • Barely superior to the original
  • Slow and clumsy
  • No altimeter

Sept 18, 2007

If you liked the original you'll like this. It's the cliché that most of us reviewers try to side-step as urgently as if it were a loony-eyed hobo. Thing is, it isn't true of Blazing Angels II: Secret Missions of WWII, because anyone who paid for the original will probably find this sequel a personal insult to them, their family and their dead Labrador.

While the first Blazing Angels covered the basics well enough, it also suffered from rushed presentation, obvious budget restrictions and a few genuinely bizarre design choices - a set of problems that, unfortunately, this sequel repeats with careless abandon.

More Info

DescriptionFollowing on the heels of Blazing Angels: Squadrons of WWII, fans can continue honing their flight prowess in this sequel.
PlatformPS3, Xbox 360, PC
US censor ratingTeen
Release date31 August 2007 (US), 31 August 2007 (UK)
We recommend


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Capcom gives Resident Evil 6 a $1300/820 special edition. Extravagant celebration, or huge self-parody?

Yes, you are reading that right

There is an upper limit on how special a special edition can be. They can all be special in different ways of course. Some come with toys. Some come with DLC built in. Some come with special shiny box art that flickers and glows like the dying embers of the once mighty funeral pyre for a legendary and much-loved Viking lord. But however they may be special, there is an upper limit to how special that specialness can be.

And that upper limit usually cuts off way below the eight-hundred quid point.

Fortunately though, we have companies like Capcom. Companies with the pioneering spirit and devil-may-care attitude toward convention to really push this industry forward. Companies happy to put out three full-price, insanely expensive, marginally-tweaked versions of Street Fighter II on the same 16-bit format over the space of a couple of years. Companies happy to do the same with Street Fighters III and IV, despite the advent of DLC in the latter case. Companies happy to riddle said second sequel with in-game purchases, and then repeat the whole incremental update process with Marvel vs. Capcom 3 a year later, and hold back a couple of old favourite characters as on-disc DLC. You get the idea.

Above: You could play this while wearing a special Resi jacket for around the same price as four current-gen consoles. Bargain!

In the cause of squeezing pint upon pint of fresh warm blood out of the same old stone, Capcom is one of our most progressive leading lights. A round of applause for those guys please. They do important work. And now, with the advent of its exciting new semi-reboot of Resident Evil with RE 6, Capcom is, fittingly, rebooting the whole concept of the special edition with a bundle clocking in at the equivalent of $1300/£820. It contains a set of four character-themed tablet covers and a real wearable replica of protagonist Leon Kennedy's jacket. It's a quite nice jacket, but one which - even if made up the uppermost top quality, which it no doubt is - would probably retail for a noteable chunk less than £800.

I can only assume that the disc is carved from crystalised unicorn tears.

Interested? Let me know in the comments. And don't forget join us next week when we reveal that two of Resi 6's three parallel campaigns take the form of paid-for on-disc DLC. Maybe. But probably not. Hopefully.

Long-time GR+ writer Dave has been gaming with immense dedication ever since he failed dismally at some '80s arcade racer on a childhood day at the seaside (due to being too small to reach the controls without help). These days he's an enigmatic blend of beard-stroking narrative discussion and hard-hitting Psycho Crushers.
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