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Emzee

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Blog Entries posted by Emzee

  1. Emzee
    I'm sad to say that after 5 years, the cyanproductions.net domain will be going offline in about a week. All of the games, graphics, and assorted info are safe on my computer, and I will placing the games on my Dropbox sometime soon (in the meantime you can always PM me for games, even other games that were in the Software Library -- I think I have most of them).
     
    The idea is to have powerliesbeneath.com go live once the first beta gets closer to release -- something I plan to do late this year. The domain is already in my possession, but I'm going to wait before shelling out more many for hosting that I don't need just yet.
     
    Just thought I'd give everyone a heads up.
  2. Emzee

    Project Update

    By Emzee,

    Progress is still going. Don't you worry.
     
    The first of two animation textbooks came in yesterday. Lack of any animation skills whatsoever has been a huge setback for me and Power Lies Beneath. With it being an action game, good animations really are a core part of the experience.
     
    I'm sure some animators out there a familiar with The Illusion of Life, the book by OIllie Johnson about Walt Disney's studio? That's the first book that came in and it's quite inspirational. Not enough to quit my day job, but man, I'm liking it so far.
     
    As far as actual game mechanics go, it's typical Unity shenanigans. You can't code a system from scratch so you hope that an asset out there can at least get you going in the right direction. But, many of the assets I buy (or even free ones), aren't as well documented or well-developed as they should be. "You get what you pay for" also doesn't apply as much as you would think (probably the most dangerous part about dealing with the asset store).
     
    Of course, Unity's core audience doesn't seem to know how to code, so many of them love these bad or buggy code snippets anyway and it gets them one step closer to their dream.
     
    Ah well. What can you do?
     
    Well, nothing has really changed visually in my game, but here's a screenshot anyway of a Hoto bug getting its AI rigged up. Those blue rings are basically its "affect field". If you're within those rings, the Hoto bug shoots goo at you. The black lines are part of a second field that depicts the Hoto bug's field of vision. And of course, there's the golden waypoint route in the grass.
     
    I'm really tired (as per usual on Fridays unfortunately), so I'm about to read some more of the Disney book and head to bed. Hope y'all have a great night!
  3. Emzee
    I've debated whether or not to make this, since one could argue in both directions whether or not Chapter 2 of the current arc is "BZPRPG 2014" or "continuation of BZPRPG 2013". We started in 2013, it was in November, and a lot of things changed (not to mention there was another timeskip). At least for news purposes, I've decided to prune all the 2013 stuff to keep the News post clean.
     
     
    Mata-Nui Daily
    Breaking news: The Gukko Force has tamed Nui Rama?! Flyers about Le-Koro are recruiting new high-fliers for the Gukko Force. However, instead of riding birds the new members are going to be riding... Nui-Rama?!
    A Rare Sight: It seems to be raining over the Po-Wahi desert.
    War of Wits: A game of chess wages on between Riaril and Rekhan in the Ko-Koro citadel.
    Train Fight: Ishi Polzin leaves Po-Koro, gets into a furious train fight on the Iron Mahi, and then travels from the port of Forsi to Ga-Koro. When he returns, there is rain in the sky, and the cobble streets have become dark with wet sand.
    Contest! A Musical Competition is announced by a twin duo. It is going to be held in Le-Koro. Bring out your best in-game musical talents, players!
    Avenging Those Who Are Lost: The Ussalry is preparing for military response to the odd disappearances of travelers in the tunnels, as well as rallying a guard for Akiri Nuparu during the soon to come Akiri Summit at Kini-Nui.
    Rise of a Village: Ihu-Koro has become active, their main export a rare metal substance known as Rena Ore. Commissions may be made by visiting the Koro on Mt. Ihu’s crown.
    The Tense Waiting: The interrogation of Akriin by Akiri Jaller has begun.
    New Inn in Ta-Koro: A new Inn has opened up in Ta-Koro: The Burning Hearth.
    The Naval Battle Rages On: Outside the lighthouse, the Invincible is joined in the waters by the Infernavika. Settling on a public deal of ten percent prize earnings to the pirates, Iraira allows them to aid in the dive expedition. However, the dive is temporarily canceled to get back Verak. Before they can enter the lighthouse, a rogue toa of earth named Kavala boards the pirate ship and begins a ferocious sea battle. Kordo escapes and steals himself away to the mainland in a lifeboat after regaining his Hagah Cannon. To distract Kavala, Iraira plunges into the sea and uses her powers of crystal to set the saline water against him. It works, and the Infernavika stops its tilt into the sea.
    Feel a need for adventure on the high seas? Have a calling for justice and the law? Join the Marine Force of Ga-Koro! Equal opportunity employer with choice benefits, seeking qualified police persons. Sailing experience a bonus, but not necessary. All recruits go through basic training in land and aquatic environments. Apply at the Ga-Koro Marine Force headquarters.
    Suspected terrorist captured! The Ta-Koro Guard has been seeing taking a toa of lightning into custody. Is this the terrorist who damaged the Ta-Koro monorail? Authorities have yet to release any information for clarification.
    Want technology? Want the manly power of drill-staches? Visit the Grand Bazaar in Onu-Koro for all sorts of wondrous items!
    MELTDOWN AT THE DINNER TABLE! In a shocking display of emotions, Dorian Shaddix explodes in the Brightstar Inn in Le-Wahi. What is the cause of this mysterious argument between two toa? Those who know are avoiding our reporters at this time.
    Employement Opportunity: Looking for medical professionals to staff the MN Research Institute in Ko-Wahi. Flexible schedules and payment opportunities dependent on expertise and experience.
    Most Unnatural! Rain in Po-Wahi has been reported by our reporters in the stony city. Apparently, what started as a dark cloud has become a torrential storm unlike most things ever seen! Storm hunters: Po-Koro is your Arhtahka right now!
    Fake Po-Koran Sentinel Sighted: Reports from Po-Koro tell the Daily that a Matoran wearing a forged Sentinel badge was sighted in Po-Koro. The criminal managed to fool several merchants before being discovered by a real Sentinel. The Sentinel unfortunately lost the offender in the following chase. Reports indicate that an individual later matching his description was seen leaving the Po-Koro gates.
    NM Research Hospital looking for prospective Applicants: The famed Nuju-Marillion Research Hospital in Ko-Wahi is looking for prospective staff members. Healers, surgeons, herbalists, and psychologists, and PT instructors are all open for candidacy. Pay will be based upon prior experience and quality of success. Inquire at the front desk.
    Le-Koran Bandits Stalking Onu-Wahi's Highways: Reports from the Ussalry have been released. These reports detail scattered massacres and plundering of merchant caravans along isolated areas of Onu-Wahi's highways. The authorities have connected these crimes to earlier raids in Le-Wahi, over twenty years ago. The bandits are thus presumed to Le-Matoran, wealthy and heavily armed. If you have any suspicions that you have encountered these criminals, contact Ussalry Headquarters at once.
    The Crab-Ridin', They Are A-Changin': The Ussalry has recently obtained unique weapons and defense technology ranging from steam cannon to the Patero launcher, nearly all found exclusively in Onu-Koro. It has changed along with this development by dividing itself into the three regiments of Heavy Cavalry, Light Cavalry, and Special Operations, the three branches headed by Gavarm, Leli, and Noxra Immiti, respectively.
    "Red Star" Crew sets off towards Ko-Wahi: The large crew mentioned in the last update is starting to assemble, many of its members first meeting in Po-Wahi. The crew has now set off towards Ko-Wahi to meet with the remaining adventurers. It is only a matter of time before their journey begins. Stay tuned for more updates.
    Large Crew Needed for Voyage: Toa Ignitus, Rerus, Oriak, Xadah, Gravus, and others are recruiting brave adventurers to be their crew on a dangerous journey across the ocean. The ship will sail in the direction of the Red Star in hopes of learning more about whether it does connect to the Vault Riddle. Head to the Ko-Koro Inn and seek out the aforementioned group of Toa to learn more.
    Onu-Matoran Company Visits Ga-Koro: Early this morning a traveling band of Onu-Matoran, flanked by members of the Ussalry, visited Akiri Hahli for a meeting. They are currently in conference. What could they be discussing? We hope to get the scoop when they're finished.

    BZPRPG NEWS
    Hau Karda are reforming in Po-Wahi
    A defector of Ak’rei’an and his companion find possible accomplices in Po-Koro.
    Akiri Hewkii has a moving moment of insecurity and helplessness at the grave of Turaga Onewa.
    The Red star group is currently stagnating in Ko-Wahi
    Ak’rei’an has been converting captives at a furious rate, their numbers growing significantly in a manner of a few days.
    Jorruk and Rakona try to pass themselves off as Mata-Nui religious fanatics to buy Stalix powder from AKiru’s forge in order to destroy The Vault in Mangaia. However, Miraul Akiru decides Stannis Maru must be spoken to before the sale can be made, telling Jorruk to come with him to Po-Koro and speak with the toa of stone for guidance.
    The night fight between a mercenary and several Marines is still on pause for the time being. Ex-markbearer and convict Jykal has become a component of the fight.
    The Paladins continue to train and learn about their elemental powers.
    The Polzin company is nearly sabotaged by a vortixx mercenary named Nika Draen.
    The Dasaka are marching South from Ta-Wahi into Ga-Wahi beach.
    The secretive onu-matoran woman of many names and faces hires Tarpo as a spy.
    The Piraka seem to be making landfall on the shores of Ta-Wahi, but have yet to come into contact with any inhabitants.
    Arjun, Alfon, and several other beings meet at the Brighstar Inn by happenstance. A toa of crystal, Vrina, shows her powers for creating diamond arrowheads. Much more happens; go read it. The next day, Alfon, Arjun, and a new compatriot named Hasil all decide to join the Rama-Riders division of the Gukko Force.
    Joske and company arrived at the Brightstar Inn after being greeted by Akiri Kongu, Korero Maru, and Sisk of the Wind Riders. Dorian and Joske got into an argument about being truthful and eventually Dorian had a complete mental breakdown, shouting and revealing the names of the Turaga assassins of Bad Company, Aurelia, and that he had been taking drugs. After collapsing in Agni’s arms, Joske spirited away with the toa of iron to the Temple of Faith in Le-Koro. The two are still in contemplative talking, though broken by the shocking discovery of Ambages appointment as Vizier of Ko-Koro.
    The ILF is met with some unexpected recruits: Jin disguised as another woman, A smiling Grokk, and a vortixx covered in a dark cloak who is actually Strakolix from theInvincible’s crew. That’s BZP-time folks, don’t even try to explain it with a Tardis or Time-turner: won’t work.
    Verak was found and brought into the basement of the lighthouse by a mysterious Onu-Lesterin who is so far unnamed. Letting Verak have a kanohi Kualsi, he then presented the toa of sand to his ragtag group of cannibal refugees, calling for a welcoming party. Argun, a brutish man stepped up to the plate and attacked Verak with the intent to butcher.
    A sailor from another vessel happens upon the ocean brawl and joins the pirates and marines after being offered a stable deck aboard Lohkar’s ship.
    The Dasaka arrive on the beaches of Ga-Wahi, heading South from Ta-Wahi.
    A nighttime fight is breaking out between a group of drunk marines and mercenaries. There is a marine captive.
    The Ussalry is assembling its tour de force for the Kini-Nui Summit.
    Battle in Xa-Koro between Kavala, the Infernavika, and the Marines has escalated. What is truly "Creeping from the deep?"
    The red star group has yet to leave Mata-Nui.
    Ga-Koro Dive Expedition Underway: The crew of The Invincible have made fall at the Kumu-Islets and are beginning to explore the ruins below the waves.

    BZPRPG Announcements
    Timeskip is in the works in response to the data loss.

  4. Emzee
    (This is the only blog entry that I'm reposting from the data loss. These updates help me keep track of my progress)
     
    It's hard to believe it's been a whole month since my last entry. I must have been a lot busier than I thought.

    Anyway, I thought it might be time for another update for you guys on progress.

    First thing, I've purchased more assets to use from Unity's Asset Store. It had some duds, but occasionally you can find something good, and on sale too! I paid for some animation sets to use on my player character and NPC Matoran, and thanks to Unity 4's Mecanim animation system, getting them to move was not all that difficult.

    I've also ironed out the overarching (but simple) plot for the Le-Wahi course. I don't really want to describe it too much to avoid potentially spoiling any part of the adventure. With this game, like the MNOG, you're supposed to learn even the basic story elements by playing through and figuring it all out.

    Next, I added a music track and some more sound FX to the level. The music will range from totally nostalgic to totally obscure for you all. I think it will fit very well with the environment though, and it is from one of the many Bionicle themed media that we've been given.

    The HUD is more or less finished and I love that I made it to be mostly like the HUD from the canceled PC game. Even the UDD symbol spins!

    I made some changes to the course itself, technically making it bigger and thus giving the player more room to explore. I'm also adding more of those "coins", treasures to find, Rahi to fight, and all of that typical action-adventure game stuff.

    Finally, I'm adding a game mechanic that will be a surprise for when the beta is released. I don't want to reveal it because many of you have encountered this mechanic before and some of you were not impressed due to it being rather dull. My implementation won't be dull at all though, and it'll actually be one of the more challenging parts of the Le-Wahi course (next to the Boss Challenge, which I also won't describe just yet). The secret feature requires a lot of design work and art, so I'm currently working on getting all of that modeled and put in place. Hopefully, the coding won't be too demanding.

    This doesn't sound like a lot, but it is. I have to model all the props for this game feature, and then put in some fun game mechanics for the "extra space" in Le-Wahi. I still can't give you guys an approximate date for release, but progress is still going strong.

    Until next time!
  6. 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.
  7. Emzee

    Brick Fiesta

    By Emzee,

    ... was awesome! I'll just put that out there right now.
     
    I'm going to do a full write up of everything I remember from my few hours in the Mesquite convention center tomorrow. Hopefully it can get posted on the front page along with my pictures.
     
    Until then, good night. 7+ total hours of driving with no one to talk to. I'll take a break tonight.
  8. 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.

  9. Emzee
    I definitely enjoyed the movie. I went in with low expectations and was presently surprised. Kept me engaged throughout the whole thing, and I actually enjoyed most of the twists. Some parts of the movie I kinda groaned at (they're at the end, so I can't explain in detail), but overall it was a fun experience.
  10. Emzee

    Back To Normal

    By Emzee,

    I don't know how many of you are the youngest in your family, but for the last 3 years I've had the privilege of getting a week of solace, a week of all the family in one house (and associated chaos) and then another week of solace once the siblings have gone back to work. This is, of course, the last year that I get this privilege, but this pattern of calmness and chaos is something I look forward to every year.
     
    So basically, am I the only one who gets this bonus due to being the youngest?
  11. Emzee
    If fellow BZPower game developers came to you and asked what to create, what would you say to them? While there are constraints on what's possible, we often underestimate the capability of our BZP members. I'm inviting everyone to give their honest opinion in this topic.
     
    What would you like to play?
  12. Emzee
    It's been nearly a month without an update. Talk about wasting my valuable money.
     
    Honestly, nothing interesting/enjoyable has really happened since I posted last. School work and extracurricular activities have been taking up most of my time. On top of that, I've been doing job interviews, while show me just why my GPA is low. Spring break for me, starts tomorrow, but I'll be spending most of the coming days finishing up my homework assignments that are due at the end of this week.
     
    Speaking of which, I need to start asking people how to go about these Data Structures/Algorithms assignments. When you can't make heads or tails from the question, that is indeed a problem.
     
    So yeah, lotta work and little reward right now.
  14. Emzee

    So I Finally Have A Break

    By Emzee,

    I'm getting a little bit of a Fall break this week, and it feels great to have a little bit of breathing room so far. I'm hoping you young people can be a little more relaxed than I am.
  15. Emzee

    2006 - 2008

    By Emzee,

    hehe, missed a day!
     
    Anywho, let's not waste anymore time! With anniversary week almost over, I decided it may be best to just do 2 years today and 2 years tomorrow! Not much happened during my recent years, so these entries should still be at a bearable length.
     
    In 2006, I was working on my biggest JRPG to date: The Legend of Mata Zuto: Fall of the Conqueror . The last half of 2006 was admittedly frantic because of this. In RPG Maker, you generally have to use the default menu system that it provides, but I wanted to create my own using only the resources provided by the engine (so external scripting was available). A lot of time was taken away from the BZPRPG because of this, however, I honestly was not too bothered. Ego trips and bouts of drama took out much of the fun for me (no names will be mentioned). So I effectively spent even less time on BZPower, trying to pique interest in the video game RPG fans by making something truly original.
     
    I also kept close watch on the BIONICLE storyline. Vezon was my favorite character for that year - everyone else kinda annoyed me. The VNOG had great potential, but was ultimately too tedious and boring to complete.
     
    In January 2007, I officially resigned from the BZPRPG (though I didn't make an announcement -- the people who cared would learn soon enough where I had gone). So that really opened up more time for me to make my comeback in the RPG Maker community.
     
    In February 2007, I released the first demo of The Legend of Mata Zuto: Fall of the Conqueror. It was a great success - one that, all-in-all, I was satisfied with. Keeping close watch over my game's topic and giving hints and help where needed, I continued working on my game. Later that summer was when BZPower created it's best forum: Fan-Created Games! *dodges tomatoes and shoes* I helped make it happen too, it was easily my biggest accomplishment of the year. Yup. Nothing would surpass that for the rest of the 2007...
     
    *clears throat* =P
     
    2008 was mostly dull for me BZP-wise. The BIONICLE storyline's recent turn had completely jumpstarted my interest, but the general BZP reaction of indifference (added with a lot of people who just didn't like it) just led to me spending more time involved in the BIONICLE story than BZP for once! That hasn't happened since 2003!
    Anyway, in February 2008, I had finally finished Fall of the Conqueror. It was an absolute roller-coaster of a project, and it was thanks to it that I pledged never to make another game with RPG Maker 2003. I would using a real coding language from then on, like BASIC. Yes, I still had a lot to learn when it came to picking good tools for game development. Right after Fall of the Conqueror was finished, I spent the next four months transferring my other RPG Maker 2003 game (The Infestation) into an RPG Maker XP game. That was another huge success, and with both my games that I've been working on since 2002 FINALLY done, I was ready to start on the project I've been trying to do since I started making games. I was going to fill that void created by the cancelled BIONICLE PC game, and I would make a 3D Action RPG of my own.
  16. Emzee

    2005 - 2006

    By Emzee,

    This is about the time when the Game Company fad drew to a close. MeNOL was finally released, and it was awesome, though it only had one level. Unfortunately, free time for -Takua- and Tula began to become more scarce, and there simply wasn't enough time to get an update out. On top of that, there were foundational issues in the programming, and the creators realized that in order for the game to improve, they would like have to start from scratch (yes, I've been there many times myself).
     
    In other regions of software forum, we had the laughable rivalry between Biotech and Anaglyph. I don't really want to explain that in detail, since it was so long ago and again, we were fifteen year-olds.
     
    Another memorable point in this year was when fandom, having finished it reeling from the massive backlash of 2005. In 2006, they fought back in droves, and the Bionicle subforums changed from complaining about BIONICLE to complaining about people complaining about BIONICLE and complaining about people complaining about people complaining about BIONICLE and... (etc.)
     
    Yeah, it was whirlwind. When it all came down to it, it seemed like people just didn't respect each others' tastes. I think we're a little better about it now, but then again, we're also older now.
     
    That's pretty much now I remember this year: lots and lots of tension. My 4th year pretty much marked the end of my browsing through general BIONICLE subforums, and sticking mostly to RPG Forum due to all the bickering. Unfortunately, not even the BZPRPG was safe from that though. Stay tuned for tomorrow when I fully explain why I left the BZPRPG, and also go over my huge comeback in game development with the debut of The Legend of Mata Zuto: Fall of the Conqueror.
  17. Emzee

    Not Fun...

    By Emzee,

    *sigh* Work on Influx is continuing, but I've reached possibly the hardest part of the game: AI. I've just managed to get the logic down on paper, and implementing it has been successful. However, since this is a 3D game, Physics and animation have to play a part, and sometimes what I want the AI to do may be hindered by the Physics since the Physics system controls how the character moves.
     
    Then, there's sequencing: having one process go after another. This is generally how lines of code are processed, by they're processed so fast that it all looks instantaneous. The challenge presented is that I must have one command cycle through the game loop until it is done, then when that command is completely finished, another command can start. The key is to hopefully do this without the use of hundreds of booleans (or switches, or toggles, if that makes more sense), which right now looks like the only possible solution.
     
    Maybe I'll go back and work on the menu. That was fun.
     
    P.S. Stay tuned this week for my 8th BZP anniversary, where, starting on the 20th (3 days before my join date) I'll talk to you about what was going on during that year and what I was up to (since very few you know much about be from before 2008/9). I will be funny and entertaining. Promise!
  19. Emzee

    No Pms For Comments?

    By Emzee,

    ... so yeah. If you make a comment in my blog, don't expect it to show up for several days. I generally don't pay attention to stuff like this unless I'm notified about them. XD
     
    EDIT: Never mind, I just activated notifications. XD
  20. Emzee

    Moving

    By Emzee,

    I forgot to mention: today's moving day for me. It's only down the street to another apartment though (less than a half-mile away), and it's still on campus. As an upper-classman, I have to move to the designated upper-classmens group of apartments. It only a two-bedroom though, which I like (I'm currently in a four-bedroom). I haven't even begun gathering my stuff up to put in my car though. At any rate, that's pretty much my day for today.
     
    In other news, you should allow Aho to brighten your day.
  21. Emzee
    Some of you may remember a blog entry where I presented the first video footage of a prototype game that will soon evolve into The Legend of Mata Zuto - Episode 3: Influx (or Influx for short ). It was only 6 seconds, but it was the culmination of a lot of work. Now, I'm back with a 45-second movie clip, showing my progress after spending a couple weeks with Unity and Blender. I've finished rigging and animating the Tarakava model that Mihunai made for me, and the only other thing I need to do to the model is remove those treads and replace with with a "normal map" tread. On the Unity end, I certainly still have my work cut out for me, but I was able to get a lot more done then I thought. Check out this video to see the Tarakava move around and punch, the beginning of great things to come!
  22. Emzee

    In Other News...

    By Emzee,

    I finally shrunk down my gi-normous approval seal. It's now only 200 pixels wide. If you still have the oversized one, scroll down and switch it out with the new one.
     
    Yeah, I think that's all I have to say for today.
    EDIT: I need to change my av for this blog... eh, I'll do it later.
  23. Emzee

    Almost There...

    By Emzee,

    We're almost to the end of this... interesting decade. Certainly glad to have been a part of it. Everyone born from tomorrow on will have missed all the fun! Also, y'know what'd make a good resolution? Try checking out the RPG forum, especially you Epic writers. Specifically, check out the all-new BZPRPG that'll be showing up in a few hours. Guaranteed fun or your money back!
     
    Anyway, I won't be online for New Years, so I hope you all enjoy the switch from 2000s to the '10s. Happy Early New Year!
  24. Emzee

    *pew Pew Pew*

    By Emzee,

    Hey, you guys might wanna check this out. It's just a prototype, but so far, it's shaping up to a really fun 3D game. Feel feel to share you thoughts!
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