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Emzee

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Blog Entries posted by Emzee

  1. Emzee

    Upgrades and Bug Fixes

    By Emzee,

    My Character Controller system, a vital asset that I use for my game mechanics, got a big update last week, and I decide to take the plunge and try integrating the new version into my current project. It's not going to be easy, and it's probably not going to be fun, but the new features that the new version has has way too many advantages to pass up. Not only will it make developing the player character much easier, I'll even able to add some new tricks that the player will be able to do.
     
    In other news, I did a test build on my first level and discovered that there are some rather disastrous glitches in the build of the game that aren't present when testing inside the Unity engine.
     
    That... could be an issue.
     
    I have one idea to fix this bug and I hope it works. Otherwise, it will probably call into question the integrity of any features I implement. Exporting a build takes a lot of time, and this project won't work if I have to do that after every new feature.
     
    Other than that, Power Lies Beneath is moving at a steady pace.
  2. Emzee

    Just a Thought

    By Emzee,

    If the Brick Fiesta folks* are going to continue to have their cons on the same weekend and in a different city than RTX, I'm not sure how they expect me to attend...
     
    Not saying I definitely won't be doing Brick Fiesta coverage next year, but... chances aren't very high. Driving between San Antonio and here takes 90 minutes - 3 hours round trip. Whoever plans on attending should remember to bring their camera and their photography skills, and maybe some notes to take. I still really want to see how well our Texas LEGO con continues to grow.
     
    * yes Fiesta announced their dates first... but RTX is bigger, and they use the same convention center at year. I'd say BF has the easier time budging on their dates, not they should HAVE to, but... ah, forget it. Just move everything to Austin. That's always the right choice.
  3. Emzee

    Portland

    By Emzee,

    Hey! Remember me?
     
    Just sitting here on the MAX right now. There's nothing quite like spending some time on a city where the hills and trees are taller, but it otherwise rather similar to home.
     
    Looking forward to seeing all the new and old faces at Bricks Cascade!
  6. Emzee
    Well, I'm just going to say it.
     
    I'm disbanding the company.
     
    Now, hopefully the natural response (besides "what company?") is "What do you mean?"
     
    Allow me to elaborate: Cyan Productions is a collection of game developers that release games, music, stories and other stuff in the Fan Created Games forum. Unlike most of the "game companies" that swept through BZPower in the mid '00s, Cyan developers mostly did their projects, and reached out to artists when they needed them.
     
    Now however, most of us have moved on. Despite this, the games we created to still hosted and downloadable from cyanproductions.net. Because we mostly each worked on our own projects, this creates a bit of a support issue. I do not know all the ins and outs of my peers' games, and they likely do not know the ins and outs of my games. This is why I've been hesitant to bring the Cyan Productions topic back. There aren't really any active projects going on, and because the games are hosted in my topic, members would likely expect me to be able to help them with bugs, game secrets, and general game support (can't blame them, of course) for projects that didn't work on.
     
    So here's the idea that I'm toying with: I post two topics in FCG, one for each of the games that I made. The rest go to the Software Library. I haven't done it yet because I'm still thinking things over. It sounds like a good plan though. They'll still be playable.
     
    Of course, you wouldn't be able to just casually discuss the other Cyan games since there would be no topic. If enough people ask for it, I may remedy that with another "Official Topic for Older Games," but the last one tanked, so I'm reluctant to start another one.
     
    Well, that's where we are now. I'll make a final decision in the coming days, and I'll update if I change my mind.
     
    Note: Plans for Influx and its associated resources will go in the next entry.
  7. Emzee

    Devlog #1: A New Frontier

    By Emzee,

    Welcome to the first entry of my Devlog. In this issue, I'm going to introduce the software I'm using to create the new version of Mata Zuto 2: The Infestation:
     
    When I first joined in Summer 2002, the first topic I posted in was Flow of the River, the very first fan-created game on BZPower. That Digital RPG was created with a simple and primitive Windows application called "RPG Maker 95", released in 1997 by ASCII (currently called Enterbrain). Now, there are 4 other programs made by this company that are/were on the market: RPG Maker 2000, 2003, RPG Maker XP, and brand-new VX. The "new frontier" I'm going to show you now is RPG Maker XP.
     
    It's not that new anymore, but for those who've used older RPG Maker programs or played games from those, you'll notice the many differences that this program has from its predecessors.
     
    Now, I'll go over what Mata Zuto 2: The Infestation is about. The sequel to the recently finished Fall of the Conqueror, the perspective changes from the views of the Toa to the views of the Matoran. In an effort to avenge the fallen Makuta, a monstrous follower named Nui Laka awakens the Bohrok Swarms and allows them to ravage the villages on Mata Nui. In order to stop the Swarms, the Guardsman Aft has to take one Matoran from every village and retrieve special Krana Xa from the six Bohrok. Once all six Krana Xa are retrieved, they can be used as keys to open up the Exo-Toa chambers that are needed in order for the Toa Mata to face the Bahrag, the leaders of the Bohrok Swarms. However, Nui Laka has plans of his own: knowing the inner mechanisms of the Bohrok, Nui Laka plans to create a new breed of Bohrok that will overthrow the Bahrag and "restore order" on Mata Nui.
     
    The story will become much more complex than that as you get deeper into the RPG. Twists, turns, romance, betrayal, and lots of adventure!
     
    For the last month, I've been doing a lot for this game. Starting with graphics, I've converted simple graphics from kits and from Fall of the Conqueror so that they'll look okay in RMXP (RPG Maker XP). One thing to note is that RMXP is the first RPG Maker program to allow 24-bit graphics (including JPEGs). Here's a shot of the main interface. I personally think the new Matoran charasets are spiffy, and I hope others will enjoy them too. I won't show them clearly just yet though, I have other things.
     
    One of the greatest innovations was the adding of the RGSS (Ruby Scripting) to the program, allowing experienced users to go beyond the limits of the maker. I've tried that many times before with past engines, and not only were they exceedingly difficult, but they didn't always work either. With RMXP, you truly are free to do as you please.
     
    Right now, I'm about to finish up the Lehvak Nest, which is part of the Air Temple that was visited in Fall of the Conqueror. Every "dungeon" in The Infestation has a special theme to it, whether it's avoiding booby traps (as in the Air Temple), or some storyline trivia (as in the Gahlok Nest). I've added tons of stuff to my most recent dungeon. As I said earlier, many the player will have to use his logic and timing in order to dodge the many hidden booby traps that are designed to eliminate the characters. Once the Lehvak Nest is completed, I have to start the coding for the Kahu, which the Order of Peace will receive as a reward for defeating the Lehvak. I should hopefully complete that entire system (which will be similar to the Highwind in FF7 or to Flammie in Secret of Mana), in one day so I can move on. Afterwards is about mapping Ko-Wahi, Ko-Koro, Mount Ihu, and the Kohrak Nest. I'm also trying to decide what theme it will have. Even after all that, I'll still only be about 45% finished with the game as a whole. I'm only putting in the skeleton for the game, and I plan to go back and add cutscenes, special effects, and other systems to enhance the RPG. Once that's finished, I'll up be up to the final "dungeon" where you fight Buzzkill and Roadkill. That's about 90%, and then there's the final battles and the credits. Sounds simple, and I hope it will be. I'd like to complete this game very soon.
     
    Thanks for reading, and be sure to read what's up next week when I (hopefully) show you how I code the Kahu summoning/riding system.
  8. Emzee

    Gah, Writer's Block

    By Emzee,

    This Wokapu role-playing post I've been trying to write for the BZPRPG isn't as easy as I thought. I don't want to spoil what happens, but it's supposed to be rather emotional. I'm currently searching the 'net to try and see if there's a similar story out there that can give me some inspiration.
     
    Only took about a month for this to happen -- I'd say that's pretty good.
  9. Emzee
    Hey what's up!
     
    Who's been to Munich? Any must-sees/must-eats I should try? Reubens and beer are on already on the list, as is (most likely) which ever attraction you believe is the #1 result on TripAdvisor.
     
    Got any tips?
  10. Emzee

    Happy Anniversary

    By Emzee,

    Yes, I did log in just to see what spinny I had now. That's what I've become.
     
    Real talk though: happy anniversary to BZPower and to myself. I can't believe it's been 14 years since I signed up on my old dial-up internet. Times were so simple back then.
     
    Anyway, I don't really have much to update. I'm still working on my video game. I've mostly just been trying to survive this heat. There's not much incentive to me trying to go out and meet people when everyone's all sweaty and gross. I went to Brick Fiesta earlier this year (as is tradition) and had a lot of fun. Will not be a BrickFair this year, but I'll try to go next year and make this into a 4-year cycle ('09, '13, '17).
     
    How have you been? Yes, you. I thought I just wanted to see the spinny but now I'm interested.
  11. Emzee

    Rain is Poison Here

    By Emzee,

    My city can't handle rain.
     
    The people can't drive in this, streets flood everywhere, and the traffic lights go out. Because apparently San Antonio is a desert and the city wasn't built to withstand a thunderstorm.
     
    Leaving work was even less fun than normal.
     
    At least I'm home now though. Today is really a stay-inside-and-read kind of weather.
  13. Emzee

    2013

    By Emzee,

    Thinking over 2013 reminded me that despite certain issues, this year was pretty good. Not better than 2012, or 2011 (or any other year except 2007 and 2005) but still pretty good. It started off disappointing, then awesome, then horrible, and has been steadily getting better ever since. I'm glad I was able to make it to PAX East, BrickFiesta, and Brickfair VA this year. The BZPRPG is (in my opinion, both in writing and community) the best it's ever been. Lastly, I got a new job in Austin, which is cool, even if the lack of college ties in this city makes it hard to find a group to repeatedly hang out with.
     
    I'm not so glad my first job out of college was a waste of my time and theirs. I'm not glad that it's apparent that certain problems I've had since childhood will never be going away (nothing quite like learning that there are somethings in life that you will never be able to do well). Ironically, life in Austin has been borderline lonely. There's not a lot of people where I work and constantly trying to find a new group to chill with is quite draining to an introvert like me. The fact that I'm a lot more selective of who I hang with and less tolerant of certain mindsets doesn't help matters there either.
     
    There were a lot of lessons learned this year, and overall, I'd label 2013 as one giant learning experience. Lots of people are going through issues that I didn't even know existed just a couple years back. Lots of people I know also struggling with the high demands of adulthood, and being harshly criticized for not meeting the mark. Sometimes I really miss living in Houston - not because those days came with a lot less stress and expectations (they didn't), but because the consequences of not always making the best decision weren't nearly as harsh then as they are now. Young adults everywhere are realizing we now have a lot less room for error then we did before.
     
    2014 will basically be about what I do with what I've learned, and what decisions will I be making in the future, now that I know more then I did before.
     
    Happy New Year to you all!
  14. Emzee
    For all the time not spent dealing with real life and the BZPRPG, I've been working on this flash project using an ActionScript 3 framework called Flixel. I really did not realize how simple is was to get a Flash game going (I still thought you needed Flash :embarassed: ). The scripts can't handle anything too intense, but Flixel is good for simple games like platformers. It took me very little time to get something up and running, and right now I'm spending more time trying to fit the many game mechanics I have in mind together than actually programming (I'm realizing more and more that this is a common issue).
     
    Anyway, here's what I was able to make* in about an hour (not including time to learn Flixel and make the graphics). NOTE: You'll need to click somewhere in the new tab in order for the controls to work. Speaking of, here they are:
     
    Move: A and D
    Jump: W
    Attack: S
     
    No, you can't do anything yet. This was really just to show off what I discovered (Flixel!), rather than what I've accomplished. Right now I'm just trying to get game mechanics down and I've taken a break from the coding part for awhile. Once I've made some solid decisions, I'll get back to the coding.
     
    *: as usual, it might not work - but I think all you need is Flash for it to run (and maybe AIR, but I forget).
  15. Emzee
    As soon as I announce my devlog I realize that I'll be quite busy these next couple of weeks studying for this Google Interview, finding an apartment, packing, and moving to Austin. Ah well, this time next month should be smooth sailing. Of course, that's not to say these aren't exciting times.
  16. Emzee

    Graphics Card Survey

    By Emzee,

    Hi guys. I'm developing a 3D RPG and it would help me greatly if I had an idea of the types of graphics cards people use. See, I'm trying to see if the models and meshes I have now will be suitable with their polygon counts, or if I need to make adjustments. It all depends on the hardware though.
     
    For Windows users, you should be able to find your graphics card by going to your Desktop, right-clicking on the background and choosing Properties, and then clicking on the Settings tab. It should then show you graphics card model. In Windows 7, you have go to your windows experience index, and then select the "view and print detailed information." There is no "properties" options from the desktop. And for OS X, Go to the Menu Bar --> Apple logo --> About this Mac --> More Info --> Graphics/Displays.
     
    Anyway, comment here stating your graphics card, it will help me and other 3D game developers here greatly.
  17. Emzee

    Something Small

    By Emzee,

    Haven't been here in awhile...
     
    For those of you who don't know, I'm working on a 3D Action RPG called The Legend of Mata Zuto - Episode 3: Influx (or Influx for short ). I've released a few teasers and have a slew of 3D models ready to use in the game, but up until now I haven't released any movies.
     
    6 seconds - and you should be glad you're getting that! The AI and the Physics still need to be tweaked a little, because after those 6 seconds, the blue Throwbot (yes, that's a Throwbot) starts doing... weird things.
     
    Anyway, short for the brevity. I hope you enjoy it nonetheless.
  18. Emzee

    So This Is The End

    By Emzee,

    As usual, I'm quite excited about the upcoming year. So many high-hopes and resolutions (not that I bother setting any, but it's fun to hear about them ). This year wasn't too bad though, I got my first internship, which most likely helped me spring-board into my full-time job offer (from another company).
     
    I'm also glad I'm not scrambling trying to reboot the BZPRPG like we've been doing for the last oh-so-many years. Continous arcs are fun.
     
    To those fortunate enough to already encounter 2012, happy new year! Hope nothing changed too much.
     
    P.S. I also recommend reading through the RPG entries and casting your votes if you haven't already. I'm liking what I'm seeing so far, and I'll let you know my decisions later.
  20. Emzee

    He Speaks

    By Emzee,

    Hi everyone. Remember me?
     
    I'm still a bit exhausted from exams and my senior design project. To get you guys up to speed, this is my last semester for my undergrad degree in Software Engineering. This was my most difficult semester (admittedly due to bad planning), but the good side is that I get to start my full time job this summer.
     
    I know what would typically post in all caps or use a thousand exclamation points at this news, but I'm not finished yet. Classes are over, but some hiccups in our senior design project has left us still working to complete it (it's an Android app). There's a good side to this too though: I'm fairly sure we'll all get A's for our are work. Long story short, we had to pick up some slack after a member dropped the course.
     
    I still don't have time to get completely caught up on here, but expect my activity to steadily rise through the remainder of the year.
     
    To those in the BZPRPG, sorry for going dark. Real LifeTM, as you know. Don't send me BZPRPG-related requests yet though -- I'm still trying to decide if I'll still be participating in the RPG.
     
    That's all for now. How have you all been? I heard something big went down about two weeks ago. And Staff Shipping's finally a reality. Anything else that's interesting?
  22. Emzee
    Update 2: "On a Quest" has also been added. Like "Cy-Wahi," I was also going for the feel from the MNOLG soundtrack. Let me know what you think!
     
    Update 1: The 'Cy-Wahi' theme has been added. To give you a frame of reference, I'm trying to go for the MNOLG feel (Le-Koro especially), with the techno/vaguely tribal feel. Please tell me how close I've gotten to achieving that. It would really help.
     
    Part of any game development process is music composition (or music ripping if you're lazy =P). I've been having dozens of melodies and rhythms swimming around in my head for the last several months, and only I've recently built upon some of those melodies to the point that they're tolerable to listen to. I'm now in the final stage of these pieces. Usually, I wait a week or two after I finish a piece, and then go back and listen to it again. It allows the song to be fresh to the brain again, and I'll make it easier to spot issues. I'm impatient though, so I'm allowing you to be my ears.
     
    http://cyanproductions.net/media/
     
    If you click the link above, you will see the music section at the bottom. You can use the buttons to navigate through the 7 tracks. Just to make clear: these are DEMOs and definitely subject to change.
     
    Also, I can't really explain the context of most of these tracks, except that Hub is the central location in the game where you will access all the levels, and Sa-Koro is the first level. Any additional information falls under spoilers.
     
    Well, that's all for now. Enjoy!
  23. Emzee
    Good evening, role-players. Please find all the news updates from this past season in this blog post for your convenience. Feel free to discuss items here, and if someone wants to port this over to the Wiki, that's perfectly fine with me.
     
    Happy new season everyone!
     
    --------------------
     
    Mata-Nui Daily
    Rahkshi! Makuta's most feared seem to have crawled out of the darkest depths in droves. Defenders are quickly on the move taking up positions around each of the villages, in what is looking to be a last stand against Makuta's wrath.
    Prison Break: Notorious criminal Dorian Shaddix has escaped from captivity in Ta-Koro. The public is urged to report any sightings of this man and his accomplice to authorities.
    Traitors Revealed! On the day that Toa Ketan was to assume leadership of Ga-Koro, one of their own unveiled a twisted plot to control the floating village and use its people of dark ambitions. Shortly after the revelation, fighting broke out and is continuing currently. Stayed tuned for updates.
    Makuta's Servants Repelled: After what seemed like a hopeless fight, group of fearless defenders not only held back the monsters and servants from the Kini Nui, but eventually disabled or forced them into retreat. Shortly after the battle ended, however, the mysterious Toa of Light disappeared.
    Toa of Light and Friends Stand Up to Makuta's Might: Between powerful Rahi and clever servants, the Kini Nui's fate looked bleak. However, Toa have flocked to the Suva to help a Toa of Light defend it from the Makuta's servants.
    Bright Light Seen From Center of the Island: There have been many reports of an explosion of light coming from the Kini Nui area. This has also coincided with a slight decrease in Rahi activity. Stay tuned for future updates.
    Po-Koro Saved From Bizarre Attack: A strange flying object was seen hovering over Po-Koro, seeking to wreak havoc it seems. Such a bold attack resulted in a harrowing response from a team of Toa who, after a struggle, were able to bring down the massive aircraft.
    Kumu Islets Destroyed: Heroes, theives, and civilians alike a still stunned by the absolutely devastating attack on the Kumu Islets. What began as a normal day for the southern village turned into a nightmare as explosions rocked and eventually sank the islets. Many are simply bewildered at who prompted this attack and why; many people who were allied with Makuta made their homes in Xa-Koro, thus erasing the likelihood of an attack from the same people behind the North March cablecar destruction. So who WAS behind the attack?
    Fighting Continues in Pala-Koro: It seems more attacks have been thrown towards the ILF. We have not yet confirmed whether the fighting is against more Makuta followers or other enemies.
    An Offer to Improve Le-Koro: It seems the Toa Arete's work in Ga-Koro has led to the idea spreading. Now, the Cultured Gentry seeks to do the same to Le-Wahi, improving Le-Koro's military and rebuilding everything that has been destroyed or damaged in the last several months, including even Pala-Koro. Stay tuned to see how this deal turns out.
    Island Liberation Front Defeated: The war that broke out a few nights ago ceased the following day, ending with scattering Pala-Koronans and a heavily damaged village. The opposing forces seemed to have been satisfied with their work, and they moved into the jungle as quickly as they came. The leader of the ILF's location is currently unknown, as is whether the Front will recover from this devastating blow.
    Toa Team Wanted: A group of Toa known as the Toa Massi are being wanted for extensive damage to Ga-Koro, making threats to shopkeepers in Ko-Koro, and several crimes in Onu-Koro. The reward for their capture is 10,000 widgets.
    War! Pala-Koro was ambushed in the night by a group of Makuta worshippers. After a period of fighting and killing, parts the walls of the Island Liberation Front's village appeared to explode. Fires are still blazing and the area around Lake Pala has now been marked as an official War Zone. Villagers are urged to avoid the Laka Pala area until fighting ceases.
    Benefit Concert Postponed: The violent breakout in Pala-Koro worried concert planners to the point of them pushing back the wonderful sounds of the Windriders for one day. Cultured Gentry Chief of Operations Niici said that the outbreak was "disappointing, but inevitable, given the hostility and dogmatism of the two parties." The Chief sends her regards and prayers for the families affected by this brutal burst of violence.
    Ga-Koro's Economy Flourishes: Four new enterprises have opened up in the shining seas of Ga-Koro: The Ga-Koro Bounty Hunters' Guild, Kojar Art and Art Supplies, CosiMano Elemental Tutoring, and a Manuscript Copying Service. Between this and the rebuilt docks, Ga-Koro may be the most thriving village at present time!
    Windriders in Concert: Tickets are being sold in Le-Wahi for a reunion benefit concert starring the Windriders and including performances by Corciano and the Matoran Tarkis. Reserve your spot today by visiting the concert booth in Le-Koro Town Square.
    Ta/Ko Cablecar destroyed! Dozens Killed: Breaking news from our MND headquarters in Ta-Koro; The cablecar used bu many Guard members and approved passengers has been destroyed by what we believe may be a Makuta follower. Left in the hands of one of the victims of this terrible incident was this note:Anyone with any leads or clues should meet with the Ta-Koro Guard immediately. Please pray for the families of our victims.
    A Center for Peace? A Toa of Iron has built a small temple on the hills of Mt. Ihu. He is offering it as a refuge from the (possibly impending) war as well as a place for meditation.
    Concert in the Works: The Windriders, the Le-Koronan band known for providing music during Lewa's Golden Kanohi ceremony, is regrouping for a benefit concert. The Cultured Gentry is currently taking applications for opening musicians. If anyone is interested, make your way to Ko-Koro and set up an appointment at the Cultured Gentry info booth.
    New Toa Draws Attention from Villagers: Joske, the famed Ta-Matoran athlete, has been transformed into a Toa under mysterious circumstances in Ga-Koro. We are trying to get in touch with the Kolhii champion, but he has neglected to speak with anyone save a single Toa of Water.
    Wanted Toa: After two months of being frozen inside a Ko-Wahi cave, the dreaded Dark Toa Echelon has been freed from his icy prison. The Necromancer who helped Vidar kill Tamaru and kidnap Hafu walks Mata Nui once more...
    Wanted - Alive: The Po-Koro Guard has demanded the capture of an individual named Quoribay. Turning him over to the guard (alive) will get you 650 widgets.
    Hostage Crisis in Ko-Koro! The citizens of the icy village are in shock at the news of a savage hostage situation, orchestrated by the dark Shadow Hapaka. They demand 22000 widgets total for the 11 Matoran that they have in custody. The ILS (Island LIberation Squad) has tried to help, but has had little success.
    Turaga of Mata Nui Rescued: The turaga were captured by Makuta and infected with Parakuka. The ILS rescued them in the hive attack and the turaga are now being held in Pala Koro safely until their Parakuka can be removed.
    New Force for Good? A group called the ILS made a base named Pala Koro near lake Pala, and with many allies, destroyed the Nui Rama hive.
    A Bizzare Sight Near Naho Bay: Tarakava were seen massing in large numbers blockading Ga-Koro by the route to the sea. Numbers like these have not been seen since the Third Great Tarakava Raid. Civilians are nervous and the Marines are being tight lipped on whether or not a Fourth Great Tarakava Raid is possible. However Chief Head Commandant Kotu has recalled a great number of Marines from abroad to reinforce the city against a possible Rahi attack. "We're taking precautions but right now it's a standoff to see who blinks first." She said in a statement.
    Mass Murder: There have been reports of a strange Toa wandering throughout Ga-Wahi muttering of a strange brand on his shoulder before slaughtering everyone in the villages he enters. The Ta-Koro Guard is launching an investigation into the subject.
    Terror in Onu Koro: An unknown person has hurled an explosive into a crowded Onu-Koro bazaar. At least two deaths and multiple injuries have been reported.
    Onu-Koronans Beware! A number of strange murders have taken place in Onu-Koro, three out of four times with bodies being found on the doorstep of Thedar Chronn.
    Search Party: Enya, a female Toa of Fire, has disappeared from her hut in Ta-Koro.
    Honoring the Fallen: Toa Incommodo is having a funeral in Onu-Koro after an incredibly painful death. Attendance is free and food will be provided.
    Whenua to Pass Judgement on Murder Attempt: Whenua has been summoned in Onu-Koro to settle a murder dispute. Judgement and sentencing to be revealed next time!
    Maha Chucking! Kalama and his group of Toa were spotted at Golyo the Maha Herder's place for a small bout of chucking Mahas. What purpose this served is unknown but apparently it was a warm up for the Toa to defend Golyo's Maha herd against a group of hungry Nui-Jaga! The Scorpion Rahi were successfully beaten off in a dazzling display of Toa Martial prowess in which no elemental powers were used to combat the Jaga. Apparently a first in recent history! Kalama then was seen leading the unnamed Toa Team southwest toward Ko-Wahi. A clue to the location of the missing Kalama's Raiders?
    Batmen in Le-Koro! The species now confirmed as the Mystix who attempted some sort of takeover of Xa-Koro which ended in some kind of draw in which no clear side is the victor, have attempted an attack on Le-Koro! Members of the Gukko Force scrambled and quickly quashed the 'invasion' with the leader now in the devious hands of Turaga Matau.
    Hope for the Island? The Island Liberation Squad ( a group dedicated to freeing Mata Nui from Makuta's influence.) has begun constructing a new village on the shores of Lake Pala.
    Learning Center In the Works: An academy is currently being built in Ko-Wahi. Some have said that this academy intends to help students improve their skills and knowledge. More information will come as we get it.
    Po-Koro Infected: A conga of tribulations has befallen the stone village. Many citizens, including village elder Onewa, have fallen ill to the Makuta's infection. Matoran are currently looking for the cause of this outbreak. In the meantime, Hewkii has been named temporary leader of Po-Koro.
    Is Hafu Alive? Rumors have been spreading all over Po-Wahi about Hafu's ultimate fate. A thorough examination confirmed that the burned Po-Matoran is infact, a member of the Po-Koro Defense Force, meaning that Hafu has been taken away from Po-Koro. However, no one has been able to find the carver, and many of presumed him to be dead. The Defense Force refuses to make any final announcements regarding Hafu's death until a body has been found.
    Hafu Murdered: Hafu was electrocuted and burned by Ronkshou, Makuta's most powerful sapient servant. A traitor was partly responsible for Hafu's capture, and has been arrested. Ronkshou and the other servants have not been captured at this time.
    Disaster in Po-Koro! Makuta's most favored servants have waged an attack on the village of stone. They kidnapped the heavily guarded carver known as Hafu, likely to leave him to the same fate as Tamaru, another member of the Chronicler's Company.
    Hunter Become Hunted? The Shadow, an insane Vortixx who planned to kill every being on Mata-Nui, has disappeared, and is believed dead.
    Unknown Species Spotted: Mysterious winged creatures (Mystix) have been spotted in Onu-Koro.
    Attack from Mysterious Creatues: There was an attack on Xa-Koro from a strange group that some have called 'Mystix'. The situation is still being investigated.
    Marine Commanders Gives Status Update on Macku: Marine Commander Kalama finally set out to track down the rogue Ghekula unit Kalama's Raiders and their protectee' Macku. The unit went rouge with Macku following an attempted assassination after a successful assassination of Le-Koro's Tamaru. Hafu is under heavy guard in Po-Koro while Kopeke remains cut off from society. Two members, Kapura and Taipu, have not be seen recently.
     
    As for the rogue Marines, Chief Head Commandant Kotu had this to say: "I'm confidant that we can successfully locate this group and bring them back under control safely. I would advice the public however to remain cautious about venturing into the wilderness and please try to stick to the main roads until Kalama's Raiders have been successfully brought back into the fold. They are highly trained Special Forces and should not be engaged by anyone other than Kalama at this time."
     
    Accompanying the Commander and son of the Turaga were Tanuka, a local Toa of Water from Ga-Koro, Agarin, a Toa of Sonics, Kamaehu, a Toa of FIre, Cyrax, a Toa of Crystal, and surprisingly the would be assassin of Macku, Argentum, Toa of Magnetism. Skeptics have questioned this move wondering if he would attempt to murder Macku again while Marine Officials have said, "Kalama is aware of Argentum's attempt having personally brought the Toa down once. He will take the proper precautions to ensure it does not happen again."
    REOPENING OF Soli's Sword Forge: The following sign was posted in Ta-Koro: Battle Aboard the Infernavika: Miha(and co.) attacked the Infernavika in Ga-Koro. The fight was a draw, with neither side badly injured.
    A Coward Killed: Wadro, friendly coward of Le-Koro, was killed. Found upon his dead body was a tablet with the word NEX carved into it.
    A Splitting Among Pirates: Odhran the Pirate has gotten into a fight with his crew. This fight resulted in the firing of Moylan, and the hiring of Xxeth.
    Execution Gone Wrong: An attempted public execution was stopped, when the guilty person who was to be executed escaped, with the help of two others.
    Interrogation: Macku's would be assassin was re-captured by a Toa Team while the Marines drove off a mercenary group that attempted to spring the assassin. The Marines have taken custody of the assassin and he is currently undergoing interrogation in Ga-Koro. Tensions due to all the recent fighting are high and Ga-Matoran are slowly becoming mistrustful of all the newcomers with news of Tamaru's death at the hands of a Toa.
    Fight in Ga-Koro: News of Tamaru's death reached Ga-Koro just in time to prevent the assassination of Macku. The assassin was brought down by Commander Kalama and the brave Marines of Ga-Koro. Turaga Nokama has since ordered for Kalama and his unit to take and hide Macku inland. While preparing, the assassin escaped custody and continued to rampage. Kalama leaped back into the fray with Toa of Water, Tanuka buying time for his Ghekula unit, Kalama's Raiders, to escape with Macku. The unit has since gone to ground with Macku and gone rogue. Their location is currently unknown.
    Assination in Le-Koro Square: Aexias has been publicly assassinated in the main square of Le-Koro, by the notorious assassin Zadron. Or has she...?
    A Tragic End: After a long battle outside Le-Koro, Tamaru, the Le-Matoran member of the Chronicler's Company, is dead. Echelon the Necromancer held off four Toa before being incapacitated, while Vidar - one of Makuta's most favoured - captured Tamaru, interrogated him, and killed him. Despite his fear of heights, the Matoran stayed brave and incorruptible until the very end.
    Serial Killer on the Loose: After serial killing Toa succeeded in murdering two Turaga the killer was arrested by by detectives from the Dark C Investigations agency. After an attempt at interrogation he was able to escape from the investigators and
    is now attempting to flee Onu-Wahi.
    Wondrous Discovery in Po-Wahi: A recently unearthed temple in Po-Wahi by Onu-Koroan archivists was seized by a group of renegades led by the Toa of Water "Lady Yorlonda". Lady Yorlonda is a well known private collector of ancient artifacts and is known for not necessarily having other people's well being at heart, using her finds to exert political power over the Koro's for her own gain. The Onu-Koroans were run off by the tomb raiders.
     
    The Onu-Koroan archivists run off by Lady Yorlonda's renegades were last seen talking to a freelancing tomb raider Tokain, a Toa of Stone, offering him payment if he could swipe some of the more ancient artifacts from the heart of the temple out of Yorlonda's hands. He was last seen in Ga-Koro attempting to recruit Ga-Koroan Marine Commander and Nokama's adopted son Kalama to aid him.
    Search for the Cure: A Vortixx named Fov, and a Toa named Brekan, were commissioned by Nokama to save a rare plant with medical properties.
    Wanted: A pirate named Odhran has been busy recruiting a crew. Naturally, authorities are hunting down this criminal, and any tips on his whereabouts would be greatly appreciated.
    Beware, Ta-Koronans: Two Matoran were recently found dead in Ta-Koro, near the Kohlii field. The murderer has not been found. Any tips would be greatly appreciated.
    Another Pirate: The infamous pirate Lohkar has formed a new crew, and will soon begin his piratical activities. Honest sailors beware!
    Close of Business: The Black Spot Inn in Ga-Koro has closed down, and is moving to Xa-Koro, due to the threat of a raid by the Ga-Koro authorities.
    Wanted: A large bounty has been placed on the head of Aexias, a Skakdi assassin; however, she has managed to evade all would-be bounty hunters so far, with the assistance of Cipher and Zadron - a fellow assassin, whose motives are currently unknown.
    New Defensive Tool or Possible Terrorism Fodder? An inventor named Stralix has created a revolutionary new - and extremely potent - type of explosive, which he is now selling (for very reasonable prices).

    BZPRPG NEWS
    The Mask Bearer plot has been updated with the identity of the Evil. See here for details.
    Leah has joined the Wanderer's Company
    Benefit Concert tickets are being sold right now. Auditions are now closed! If you're interested, head over to Le-Koro to listen to some tunes. The music will start sometime this weekend.
    A very small settlement in Ko-Wahi named Ihu-Koro has been rebuilt after its former inhabitants were all killed off.
    A Vortixx named Sinezh and a Ta-Toa named Axeron are starting an assassins guild in Ko-Wahi.
    The cablecar from Ta-Koro to Ko-Koro is no longer usable. Keep this in mind when RPing from now on.
    The Great Mine is also still flooded. Remember this as well.
    Takua has met with the Oceanic Six, but were later ambushed by Rahkshi. Aurax was slain and Takua's whereabouts are unknown.
    The Mark Bearer Saga has entered its Final Chapter. Read this post for details.
    Word is spreading about the benefit concert in Le-Koro: proceeds are said to be going towards improving and rebuilding Le-Koro.
    Sulov has been found, and he's being convinced by Reordin to join the Wanderer's Company
    The group of Makuta followers have migrated to Xa-Koro to complete a transaction with Ahkmou, the infamous Comet Ball Traitor.
    A Ko-Matoran named Reordin was found by a Matoran of Crystal named Aurax, and now five of the Six are gathered and are planning to look for an Onu-Matoran named Sulov.
    Echelon and several other Makuta followers met at the shrine in Ko-Wahi to discuss their plan to beat the ILS. While it took place, Ambages of the Cultured Gentry, and Ronkshou, one of Makuta's most powerful servants, appeared at the meeting. Ambages offered secrets to defeat the ILS and Ronkshou was there to offer medicine, equipment, and weapons.
    Joske, the famed Ta-Matoran athlete, has been transformed into a Toa under mysterious circumstances in Ga-Koro. The new Toa of Fire was immediately beset by many beings, causing him to have a dangerous outburst. Two fellow Toa of Fire, Merror and Agni, helped him come to terms with his new stature, Agni by offering him traning, and Merror by testing Joske to make him show control. He is currently under the care of Cael, a healer.
    After his encounter with Joske, Merror finally seems to have come to terms with his troubled past and decided to found a Toa Team to fight the forces of evil and provide the Matoran with a symbol of hope. Six Toa have already assembled: Merror, Skeldan, Skyra, Pirok, Weta, and Elianne.
    After receiving a vision from Makuta, Echelon the Necromancer has set about uniting the forces of darkness under one banner. Several of Makuta's disparate minions have already been gathered, and are planning an attack on the Island Liberation Squad, while another group plans to bring order to Xa-Koro - Makuta's order.
    Pirate Schism: The crew of the Infernavika, led by Raknar, have undergone a schism after they decided to go after the Mark Bearers. As the crew fell apart, the Infernavika's newest recruit, a sailor named Kelp, revealed himself to be none other than Captain Lohkar, original captain of the ship. Lohkar has relieved Raknar of his command, and agreed to help two former crewmates, Perkahn and Grochi, to hunt down the Bearers. Together, they managed to capture a bearer named Nikarra in order to get to Dorian, but the plan backfired with Dorian rescuing her.
    All members of the chroniclers company have now been removed from the game.
    Kopeke has been removed from the game.
    Onewa has fallen to the Makuta's Infection. Hewkii is now in charge of Po-Koro, and players should expect to talk to him in Onewa's hut instead of the Turaga.
    Hafu has been removed from the game temporarily.
    Tamaru has been killed
    Macku has been removed from the game.

    BZPRPG Announcements
    Emzee will be taking a more administrative role since he has a lot of coursework to go through and activities to help run. Feel free to keep sending him weapons, powers, or species requests, as well as news -- responses may just take a little longer than usual.
    Emzee is taking 1/12/12 to 1/15/12 off. Please send any requests to Nuju Metru during this time.
    Friar Tuck has implemented a new rule regarding elemental sub-powers. Click here for details.
    Please remember the note on zamor launchers before equipping your character with one.
    If there is a situation when role-playing, please PM a staff member about it. We cannot check the discussion topic daily, so your issue may be overlooked unless you send a message directly to either Friar Tuck, Nuju Metru, or Emzee.
    The above also applies to any approvals that you are requesting. Approval requests inside the general discussion topic will not be recognized.

  24. Emzee
    ... but do shadows expand or contract when the character is off the ground? I thought they contracted... but Unity is making me second-guess it, by having its default blob shadow expand.
     
    And no, I can't just go outside and see because it's the month of January, and January in north Texas = no sun.
  25. Emzee
    Welcome everyone! We at the Software Library are in need of some individuals with a taste for video games! We'll need 1 to 2 new people to help get all of these games nice and rated. If you think you can review fan-made games objectively, send me a PM with the following to help us see what kind of gamer you are:
    Favorite Video Game (include genre): Reason(s) why it is your favorite: Review this game in the Software Library format (see below). This is important to see how you can handle critiquing your "favorite": Most disliked Video Game (include genre): Reason(s) why you hated it so much: Review this game in the Software Library format (see below). This is important to see how you can handle critiquing your "dislikes": Are you more of a casual gamer or hardcore gamer? What (in your opinion) is the most important aspect of a game? Does it depend on the genre? To use the rubric:
    Use the percentages as points (up to 100). Divide earned points by total (eg. 80 / 100). Multiply that by the number of actual points (eg. 25 points) Software Rubric:

    » Click to show Spoiler - click again to hide... « 
    Good luck to all applicants.
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