When Phil Hartman ended his run on Saturday Night in 1994, his final bit was singing goodbye with Chris Farley dressed as his Matt Foley character. That in hindsight is just sad as the show would experience a very dark period from the death of Farley in December 1997 and then the huge shock in May of 98 when Hartman was murdered.
I'll always like Farley, but the stuff that he did, he was bound to be dead sooner or later at the time. The combination of food, alcohol, and drugs controlled his life, especially after leaving SNL. I'm not sure if he would have even survived to do Shrek or any other roles that were given to him. Still, it was very sad for a lot of people. He had no control, no matter how many times he went to rehab or any means to stop the drug use and alcohol. A career tragically cut short. I don't know what else can be said that has been said already.
Hartman was on the up and up following his departure. He was starting to get a bit of movie roles. There was the show NewsRadio where he was the head radio voice. Of course, there was The Simpsons and portraying Blasto, a video game for the PlayStation. He was set to be Zapp Brannigan for Futurama despite the show not being in production yet. It became a huge shock for not just the nation, but Hollywood. Out of all the things that could happen, he was murdered by his wife, who after a few hours later, killed herself, leaving their two kids without parents.
Like Farley, there was alcohol issues pertaining to the wife, Brynn. Whether she was taking prescriptions or drugs, I don't think anyone knows. It has been said she used Zoloft, but how true that is is another question. There was the question of how rocky the Hartman marriage was and whichever one was wanting to end it, combined with therapy. How this started, your guess is as good as mine. With all that in mind, it was a huge stunner for Hollywood. For a guy who was beloved that much for how he was on SNL from 1986 though 94 and being on the rise in stardom after that, his end would become one of the biggest tragedies for any individual.
No one should have to bury their own children or see their own parents in caskets, no matter how famous those people could be.
Thursday, May 31, 2018
Tuesday, May 29, 2018
Knack Review (PS4)
In November, PlayStation 4 will have been around for five years. For now, let's talk Knack. It was one of the very first games for the system, releasing at launch. This was one of the few exclusives for Sony and while it had some cool ideas, it was bogged down by cheap difficulty.
At its core, it's a combination of a beat em up and a platformer. As the title character you go through 13 chapters, trying to restore peace and make sure the world isn't overtaken by goblins or who knows what else. He is easy to control with a jump and double jump, a dodge, and as expected, attack. Knack is made of relics and a key part of the game is watching him grow into various sizes. Being small means attacking with more hits needed to put on an enemy with the opposite when large.
This is a tech demo in graphics, but good. It just screams cleaner and better detailed visuals along with the use of various colors and lighting. A CGI cartoon for kids in video game form. The audio could have been better. Music is nice but not anything memorable. Voice acting was the best part, but overall, it's not bad, but not great.
It's a very linear game. Straight forward and to the point. There are quite a bit of secrets where you can find gadgets and crystal relics which help out a lot more as you get further or go through the game a second time. Not a lot of variety in enemies, but many ways to get rid of them. There are a few special moves that require use of sunstones, sort of in a way like X-Men and Sonic Blast Man. This does have two player and a few difficulty modes.
This is nice to see, but the difficulty. It is torture, even if you know enemy patterns. You take too much damage from one hit and the higher difficulties don't let up on that idea either. Add in an abysmal health system that depends on your size, a checkpoint system that is mediocre, and a few other issues, and this is something that could have been decent or good, but the fatal flaw is its way of handling difficulty.
A lot of replayability is in Knack, but it's not a game I would recommend. Maybe as a rental or very cheap to buy. It plays decent, looks great, and has some cool mechanics. If it just had a better difficulty curve, it would be looked at a lot more fondly.
Score: 5 out of 10
At its core, it's a combination of a beat em up and a platformer. As the title character you go through 13 chapters, trying to restore peace and make sure the world isn't overtaken by goblins or who knows what else. He is easy to control with a jump and double jump, a dodge, and as expected, attack. Knack is made of relics and a key part of the game is watching him grow into various sizes. Being small means attacking with more hits needed to put on an enemy with the opposite when large.
This is a tech demo in graphics, but good. It just screams cleaner and better detailed visuals along with the use of various colors and lighting. A CGI cartoon for kids in video game form. The audio could have been better. Music is nice but not anything memorable. Voice acting was the best part, but overall, it's not bad, but not great.
It's a very linear game. Straight forward and to the point. There are quite a bit of secrets where you can find gadgets and crystal relics which help out a lot more as you get further or go through the game a second time. Not a lot of variety in enemies, but many ways to get rid of them. There are a few special moves that require use of sunstones, sort of in a way like X-Men and Sonic Blast Man. This does have two player and a few difficulty modes.
This is nice to see, but the difficulty. It is torture, even if you know enemy patterns. You take too much damage from one hit and the higher difficulties don't let up on that idea either. Add in an abysmal health system that depends on your size, a checkpoint system that is mediocre, and a few other issues, and this is something that could have been decent or good, but the fatal flaw is its way of handling difficulty.
A lot of replayability is in Knack, but it's not a game I would recommend. Maybe as a rental or very cheap to buy. It plays decent, looks great, and has some cool mechanics. If it just had a better difficulty curve, it would be looked at a lot more fondly.
Score: 5 out of 10
Saturday, May 26, 2018
The Ideal Memorial Day Food
I'm no gourmet chef by any means, but Memorial Day is that kind of day where everyone is going to be making some kind of food. When I think of that, I think of mainly meat. While there are certainly good choices to pick and some these can be used for the Fourth of July, Labor Day and a couple other days, I personally go with a hamburger on Memorial Day.
It's something simple yet festive on this kind of day. The idea of having a beef patty putting cheese and any toppings makes me think Memorial Day. Add in a cola, some potato chips or french fries, and it's all that you really need. Not only that, but it screams out as something you should get at a ball game. Nothing like sitting down and enjoying a nine inning game, getting excited for the festivities.
If I had any other foods on my mind, it would be ribs. Part of me thinks of it as the start of summer foods somewhat. Just sitting down or being outside with that and maybe a baked potato and some other sides, it really kicks off that summer season. Appreciate it and end your meal with a smile.
What is your ideal food for Memorial Day?
It's something simple yet festive on this kind of day. The idea of having a beef patty putting cheese and any toppings makes me think Memorial Day. Add in a cola, some potato chips or french fries, and it's all that you really need. Not only that, but it screams out as something you should get at a ball game. Nothing like sitting down and enjoying a nine inning game, getting excited for the festivities.
If I had any other foods on my mind, it would be ribs. Part of me thinks of it as the start of summer foods somewhat. Just sitting down or being outside with that and maybe a baked potato and some other sides, it really kicks off that summer season. Appreciate it and end your meal with a smile.
What is your ideal food for Memorial Day?
Friday, May 25, 2018
Wednesday, May 23, 2018
R-Rated Muppets
There aren't too any movies that pique my interest this summer. Despite my thoughts on the original being overrated, The Incredibles 2 is something that interests me. Action Point is one I have had my sights on for a few months. However, I just discovered a trailer for Happy Time Murders, a Muppet type film that has caught my eye in the last 24 hours, but has me a little concerned.
Most people would think Muppets (or puppets for that matter) as being mainly for kids. The trailer, which was uploaded a few days ago, goes for stuff that no kid should see, hence the title of this blog. So, someone is murdering every single puppet of a TV show from 30 plus years ago, it's up to a puppet and Melissa McCarthy to stop the carnage. It goes completely overboard with the R-rated material right from the get go. Not to mention this is directed by Brian Henson, the son of the late Jim Henson.
I don't know about this. It almost comes off as a gimmick film despite the complete involvement of the Henson brand. Maybe almost taboo. The only other film I can think of is the Trey Parker and Matt Stone war comedy, Team America. That one did okay in 2004, but that was fully puppets. I'm trying to wrap my head around this, but it's so mind boggling. This either has the potential to do either very well or be a complete bomb.
I can't see critics liking this. It seems too raunchy, even though I don't mind some raunchy material in an R-rated comedy. Still, this comes out this August, so I would hope it's more than just what the trailer showed. At the very least, a decent script that doesn't go overboard with using its R-rating.
Most people would think Muppets (or puppets for that matter) as being mainly for kids. The trailer, which was uploaded a few days ago, goes for stuff that no kid should see, hence the title of this blog. So, someone is murdering every single puppet of a TV show from 30 plus years ago, it's up to a puppet and Melissa McCarthy to stop the carnage. It goes completely overboard with the R-rated material right from the get go. Not to mention this is directed by Brian Henson, the son of the late Jim Henson.
I don't know about this. It almost comes off as a gimmick film despite the complete involvement of the Henson brand. Maybe almost taboo. The only other film I can think of is the Trey Parker and Matt Stone war comedy, Team America. That one did okay in 2004, but that was fully puppets. I'm trying to wrap my head around this, but it's so mind boggling. This either has the potential to do either very well or be a complete bomb.
I can't see critics liking this. It seems too raunchy, even though I don't mind some raunchy material in an R-rated comedy. Still, this comes out this August, so I would hope it's more than just what the trailer showed. At the very least, a decent script that doesn't go overboard with using its R-rating.
Tuesday, May 22, 2018
The Disney Afternoon Collection Review
In a time where the NES was dominating (illegally), Capcom was one of the top tier companies for the system. It held on to some big licenses, particularly Disney brand games. A number of these came from the TV shows that were airing in the late 80s and early 90s. The Disney Afternoon Collection is one that I feel doesn't get much attention despite releasing last year. It's a great set that needs to be downloaded on PS4, Xbox One, and PC.
Before getting into the games, let's get into the graphics and audio. Graphically, there isn't any change to them. It's the same 8-bit games and they still look amazing for the time period. Same with the audio. Nothing was altered. No need to worry about any enhanced looks or remixes or anything. Let's get into the games.
DuckTales is the headline game as you go through five levels as Scrooge McDuck searching for treasures. He's quite nimble with his pogo jump and golf swings via his cane. There are lots of goodies to collect as well as a good amount of exploration. It doesn't go overboard and the difficulty is nice. The best of its generation and the collection.
Chip and Dale Rescue Rangers is more about throwing boxes at your adversaries. The two gumshoe chipmunks are on the case to rescue their team member Gadget from Fat Cat. It has ten levels and they make great use of the design of where you can place the two. You don't need to get through every level and it offers two player co-op. Notable issues are a few cheap areas and the hitbox on the chipmunks being a little larger. Still, a solid effort.
The weakest game of the bunch is TaleSpin. A unique shooter, but for the wrong reasons. Fly in eight levels on Baloo the Bear's plane as he delivers packages and avoids Don Karnage's group of employees. Your collectibles include money bags, fruit, and packages. Collecting all money bags and packages earn you more money. Big complaints include upgrades for the plane being too expensive and a bit of cheap areas that feel more artificially difficult. Shooting diagonally is cool, but almost tacked on and flying to the left side was interesting. There's worse games out there, but out of the six, not the best.
Darkwing Duck was more in line with Mega Man, Capcom's main franchise. Using gases and his main weapon, you got seven levels with some big supervillains in each one. Neither side of platforming and shooting has the advantage of being better than the other. Both are done very well and the game knows its limits. A little difficult, but not overly challenging. One of the better efforts from that era.
To the sequels. DuckTales is more or less rinse and repeat. You're still on the search for treasure. New are upgrades to the cane and a store to buy items along finding pieces of a map. Not as good as the first, but pretty good. Chip and Dale 2 is the same thing, but not as executed well. It comes off way too simplistic and almost a cakewalk. As far as sequels go, the former is a must play. The latter isn't, but if you want it for cheap, this is your only option unless you go the emulation route.
There isn't too many features. You can rewind anytime in the regular mode of each one. They add in a boss rush mode and a time attack for each game. It's a nice incentive to see how quick you can get through them. All the soundtracks can be listened to, A gallery has images of certain stuff from that era such as concept art, promotions in magazines, etc. Controls can be altered.
If you can, try to download The Disney Afternoon Collection. It's better than spending hundreds of dollars for some of the actual cartridges. There was a lot of love put into this compilation and it's one that does the licenses justice like they did back in that period of 1989 through 94. One of the must have compilations.
Score: 8 out of 10.
Before getting into the games, let's get into the graphics and audio. Graphically, there isn't any change to them. It's the same 8-bit games and they still look amazing for the time period. Same with the audio. Nothing was altered. No need to worry about any enhanced looks or remixes or anything. Let's get into the games.
DuckTales is the headline game as you go through five levels as Scrooge McDuck searching for treasures. He's quite nimble with his pogo jump and golf swings via his cane. There are lots of goodies to collect as well as a good amount of exploration. It doesn't go overboard and the difficulty is nice. The best of its generation and the collection.
Chip and Dale Rescue Rangers is more about throwing boxes at your adversaries. The two gumshoe chipmunks are on the case to rescue their team member Gadget from Fat Cat. It has ten levels and they make great use of the design of where you can place the two. You don't need to get through every level and it offers two player co-op. Notable issues are a few cheap areas and the hitbox on the chipmunks being a little larger. Still, a solid effort.
The weakest game of the bunch is TaleSpin. A unique shooter, but for the wrong reasons. Fly in eight levels on Baloo the Bear's plane as he delivers packages and avoids Don Karnage's group of employees. Your collectibles include money bags, fruit, and packages. Collecting all money bags and packages earn you more money. Big complaints include upgrades for the plane being too expensive and a bit of cheap areas that feel more artificially difficult. Shooting diagonally is cool, but almost tacked on and flying to the left side was interesting. There's worse games out there, but out of the six, not the best.
Darkwing Duck was more in line with Mega Man, Capcom's main franchise. Using gases and his main weapon, you got seven levels with some big supervillains in each one. Neither side of platforming and shooting has the advantage of being better than the other. Both are done very well and the game knows its limits. A little difficult, but not overly challenging. One of the better efforts from that era.
To the sequels. DuckTales is more or less rinse and repeat. You're still on the search for treasure. New are upgrades to the cane and a store to buy items along finding pieces of a map. Not as good as the first, but pretty good. Chip and Dale 2 is the same thing, but not as executed well. It comes off way too simplistic and almost a cakewalk. As far as sequels go, the former is a must play. The latter isn't, but if you want it for cheap, this is your only option unless you go the emulation route.
There isn't too many features. You can rewind anytime in the regular mode of each one. They add in a boss rush mode and a time attack for each game. It's a nice incentive to see how quick you can get through them. All the soundtracks can be listened to, A gallery has images of certain stuff from that era such as concept art, promotions in magazines, etc. Controls can be altered.
If you can, try to download The Disney Afternoon Collection. It's better than spending hundreds of dollars for some of the actual cartridges. There was a lot of love put into this compilation and it's one that does the licenses justice like they did back in that period of 1989 through 94. One of the must have compilations.
Score: 8 out of 10.
Sunday, May 20, 2018
When's a Game System Overrated or Underrated?
Whenever you're enjoying a game system, you're focused on the games it offered and the ones that hold some sentimental value to you. Sometimes, you might share the same sentiments as others. You could also look at a few things that make them either overrated or underrated. How does it come down to that?
You can still enjoy something that is overrated, but that doesn't mean you're going to be putting it on a pedestal. One example is the Super NES. Especially if you search deep into the library, it's a good system. However, it's praised so much by fanboys, any legit criticism you have is drowned out by them. Not to mention some of the titles are put high on that pedestal and that you can't say anything negative about Mario or Final Fantasy or that type of thing. The sad thing also for that system, most fanboys can only name about 20 titles and that's it, most of it being Nintendo and role playing games. Playing games doesn't always mean only playing the ones everyone talks about.
Underrated is a different animal. Even if a system did very well, there are some that ignore the library that was offered like the Game Boy. If you can look beyond Mario, Zelda, and Pokemon, it sported a decent library of games from both Nintendo and third party games. A number of them hold a lot of playability today. Although finding games for this kind of handheld is difficult, that doesn't mean they are worthless. There are hidden ones that you might enjoy. You never know what you're going to find in something like a Game Boy.
What if they are both? You can say a system is both underrated and overrated, but you better have your reasons. Like the Sega Saturn for example. A lot of people tend to overrate it by over exaggerating the quality of it's library. It's good, but it's not that good. However, it has those titles that many ignore and don't get looked at, making it seemed more underrated than you think. I'd say the same thing with the Nintendo 64 for some of the same examples. Over exaggerating the quality of the library, but a number of them being ignored. That doesn't mean they are systems you shouldn't go after. But that doesn't mean you'll share the same thoughts of certain people.
What's your take on overrated or underrated? It can go either way in today's world of gaming.
You can still enjoy something that is overrated, but that doesn't mean you're going to be putting it on a pedestal. One example is the Super NES. Especially if you search deep into the library, it's a good system. However, it's praised so much by fanboys, any legit criticism you have is drowned out by them. Not to mention some of the titles are put high on that pedestal and that you can't say anything negative about Mario or Final Fantasy or that type of thing. The sad thing also for that system, most fanboys can only name about 20 titles and that's it, most of it being Nintendo and role playing games. Playing games doesn't always mean only playing the ones everyone talks about.
Underrated is a different animal. Even if a system did very well, there are some that ignore the library that was offered like the Game Boy. If you can look beyond Mario, Zelda, and Pokemon, it sported a decent library of games from both Nintendo and third party games. A number of them hold a lot of playability today. Although finding games for this kind of handheld is difficult, that doesn't mean they are worthless. There are hidden ones that you might enjoy. You never know what you're going to find in something like a Game Boy.
What if they are both? You can say a system is both underrated and overrated, but you better have your reasons. Like the Sega Saturn for example. A lot of people tend to overrate it by over exaggerating the quality of it's library. It's good, but it's not that good. However, it has those titles that many ignore and don't get looked at, making it seemed more underrated than you think. I'd say the same thing with the Nintendo 64 for some of the same examples. Over exaggerating the quality of the library, but a number of them being ignored. That doesn't mean they are systems you shouldn't go after. But that doesn't mean you'll share the same thoughts of certain people.
What's your take on overrated or underrated? It can go either way in today's world of gaming.
Friday, May 18, 2018
Thursday, May 17, 2018
Don't You Know, Cano?
Robinson Cano has had a career that most likely would have gotten him into the Baseball Hall of Fame. His chances now have gone downhill the last five days. Major League Baseball suspended him 80 games for PED use and his career in major jeopardy.
I don't buy much into the New York Post, but I could agree somewhat of what they said of the New York Yankees dumping Cano even with trying to give him a seven year contract back in 2013. There was a suspicion that he was using substances. It was just a matter of when, and it is right in the middle of his ten year deal with the Seattle Mariners. The team is on a decent run for the 2018 season, just half a game behind second place in the AL West. Something tells me the Yankees knew and didn't want any of it, especially considering for 2013, Alex Rodriguez's suspension and some people's stances like Ryan Dempster.
The thing that makes no sense is the stats. Nothing screams out as artificial. Cano has 2,400 hits, just over 300 home runs, over 500 doubles. I suppose 2016 could be a year that stands out because of him hitting 39 home runs, but even with that, it's just over 100 RBI's and a 298 average. How long he has used substances, I don't know. Whatever the case, it just doesn't add up.
Cano is one of the latest who has to rebuild his reputation. There's a lot he has to do repair it and be even given a fighting chance to still get in the Hall of Fame. When he does come back, I expect someone like the immature Justin Verlander to bean him with intent to injure. People won't forget this for a while.
I don't buy much into the New York Post, but I could agree somewhat of what they said of the New York Yankees dumping Cano even with trying to give him a seven year contract back in 2013. There was a suspicion that he was using substances. It was just a matter of when, and it is right in the middle of his ten year deal with the Seattle Mariners. The team is on a decent run for the 2018 season, just half a game behind second place in the AL West. Something tells me the Yankees knew and didn't want any of it, especially considering for 2013, Alex Rodriguez's suspension and some people's stances like Ryan Dempster.
The thing that makes no sense is the stats. Nothing screams out as artificial. Cano has 2,400 hits, just over 300 home runs, over 500 doubles. I suppose 2016 could be a year that stands out because of him hitting 39 home runs, but even with that, it's just over 100 RBI's and a 298 average. How long he has used substances, I don't know. Whatever the case, it just doesn't add up.
Cano is one of the latest who has to rebuild his reputation. There's a lot he has to do repair it and be even given a fighting chance to still get in the Hall of Fame. When he does come back, I expect someone like the immature Justin Verlander to bean him with intent to injure. People won't forget this for a while.
Tuesday, May 15, 2018
Seinfeld 20 Years Later
This isn't a review per se, but more a quick thought looking at Seinfeld. When it picked up a permanent spot on Thursday nights in late 1992, it immediately became one of NBC's most important shows, especially when Cheers finished up its final season at that same time. Ending on top is something most sitcoms and shows don't think of typically, but Jerry Seinfeld picked the right time to do it, ending it on May 14, 1998.
What ensued however is something that the cast and crew sometimes regret. Those who have seen it will know that Jerry, George, Elaine, and Kramer all go to jail for breaking a Good Samaritan law and all sorts of people they have met throughout the nine seasons talking about the bad experiences they had. From Babu to several girlfriends of Jerry and George, they lined any big guest star they had from previous episodes. It is still held in regard as one of the most negative series finales ever.
Even with that, I think Jerry made the right choice to end it despite NBC not wanting it to finish. For as much as I like the last two seasons of it, there was a kind of fatigue that wasn't there during its prime. It just seemed they were running out of ideas for all four characters and the writing was on the wall of how different it was, even if it was very funny. Had there been a tenth season, I think it would have been a disaster and its ratings wouldn't have been 75 million for a finale.
Still, Seinfeld is still remembered today for a lot of the episodes that are still in people's minds. From The Contest to Festivus, it has its enjoyment, even with how mediocre the last episode was.
What ensued however is something that the cast and crew sometimes regret. Those who have seen it will know that Jerry, George, Elaine, and Kramer all go to jail for breaking a Good Samaritan law and all sorts of people they have met throughout the nine seasons talking about the bad experiences they had. From Babu to several girlfriends of Jerry and George, they lined any big guest star they had from previous episodes. It is still held in regard as one of the most negative series finales ever.
Even with that, I think Jerry made the right choice to end it despite NBC not wanting it to finish. For as much as I like the last two seasons of it, there was a kind of fatigue that wasn't there during its prime. It just seemed they were running out of ideas for all four characters and the writing was on the wall of how different it was, even if it was very funny. Had there been a tenth season, I think it would have been a disaster and its ratings wouldn't have been 75 million for a finale.
Still, Seinfeld is still remembered today for a lot of the episodes that are still in people's minds. From The Contest to Festivus, it has its enjoyment, even with how mediocre the last episode was.
Friday, May 11, 2018
Face the Music: A New Bill and Ted?
Way back in the 90s, slacker music type guys seemed to be a big thing. There was Wayne's World and Bill and Ted. The latter was one of the surprise hits of 1989 and held a decent reception. Maybe it was the goofy premise of two teenage idiots who travel through time to get Socrates, Joan of Arc, Abe Lincoln, and some other historical figures for their class project. The sequel two years later was a drastic departure and not held in high regard.
Over the years, there has been this request to have a third movie. Back then, it seemed like most movie franchises would have a trilogy, which seemed common unless you were Rocky or some horror movie franchise. There has been confirmation that there will be a new Bill and Ted and the fact that they have both Keanu Reeves and Alex Winter involved says a lot about this project. Whether companies bite on this is another story.
There has been this surge in getting 10 plus year old comedy sequels. You think about it, there's Anchorman 2, Dumb and Dumber To, Super Troopers 2. Beloved originals getting new ones. As far a new plot to Bill and Ted, it's the two trying to be musicians but not making one decent song. At least that's what some of these websites are talking about. With a script helmed by Chris Matheson and Ed Solomon, both of whom wrote the first two films, this could be back to being what the first one was. Who knows. I'd like to see this actually get to production before the rumors start of whether or not it will be made.
If there is an audience for this, that will be a huge surprise. Wayne's World still has a huge following after almost 30 years. I'm sure some still have that with Bill and Ted. If it fully comes to fruition, nothing to do than party on and totally rule the world.
Over the years, there has been this request to have a third movie. Back then, it seemed like most movie franchises would have a trilogy, which seemed common unless you were Rocky or some horror movie franchise. There has been confirmation that there will be a new Bill and Ted and the fact that they have both Keanu Reeves and Alex Winter involved says a lot about this project. Whether companies bite on this is another story.
There has been this surge in getting 10 plus year old comedy sequels. You think about it, there's Anchorman 2, Dumb and Dumber To, Super Troopers 2. Beloved originals getting new ones. As far a new plot to Bill and Ted, it's the two trying to be musicians but not making one decent song. At least that's what some of these websites are talking about. With a script helmed by Chris Matheson and Ed Solomon, both of whom wrote the first two films, this could be back to being what the first one was. Who knows. I'd like to see this actually get to production before the rumors start of whether or not it will be made.
If there is an audience for this, that will be a huge surprise. Wayne's World still has a huge following after almost 30 years. I'm sure some still have that with Bill and Ted. If it fully comes to fruition, nothing to do than party on and totally rule the world.
Thursday, May 10, 2018
Seat Belts Do Save Lives
I am amazed at the stupidity of today's generation of kids. At some point, we are all immature, but nothing like this. Personally, I will not feel bad for this teenager, but I feel bad and can imagine the huge heartbreak for her parents. No one wants to bury their young flesh and blood.
Last October, there was a car accident in Texas. Four people are in the car. Three of the group survived primarily of having and keeping on their seat belts. The fourth, Kailee Mills, took hers off and was killed as a result. With what the police had to say, their conclusion was the car lost control as a result of too much speed. As far as Mills goes, she was attempting to take a selfie.
Both parents of Mills have taken action and now have launched a foundation to promote the use of seat belts. Although authorities all over the country have to spot ones without them and the use of the click it or ticket PSA, there is always the few that either forget or deliberately take it off. Selfies are a big thing, but shit like that can wait until you get to your destination, which was a Halloween party. There's more to life than putting up more photos for your Instagram and Snapchat accounts. Teenagers have a lot more ahead of them. It's not worth it. More proof that seat belts can in fact save your life.
There's not much else to say. Just having this kind of awareness and foundation can hopefully keep kids and teenagers (some adults, too) from making a fatal decision.
Last October, there was a car accident in Texas. Four people are in the car. Three of the group survived primarily of having and keeping on their seat belts. The fourth, Kailee Mills, took hers off and was killed as a result. With what the police had to say, their conclusion was the car lost control as a result of too much speed. As far as Mills goes, she was attempting to take a selfie.
Both parents of Mills have taken action and now have launched a foundation to promote the use of seat belts. Although authorities all over the country have to spot ones without them and the use of the click it or ticket PSA, there is always the few that either forget or deliberately take it off. Selfies are a big thing, but shit like that can wait until you get to your destination, which was a Halloween party. There's more to life than putting up more photos for your Instagram and Snapchat accounts. Teenagers have a lot more ahead of them. It's not worth it. More proof that seat belts can in fact save your life.
There's not much else to say. Just having this kind of awareness and foundation can hopefully keep kids and teenagers (some adults, too) from making a fatal decision.
Tuesday, May 8, 2018
Chex Quest Review (PC/DOS)
Incentives are always given when eating a box of cereal. Prizes vary depending on the kind of thing going on at the specific time. Ralston Foods wanted a video game put in boxes of Chex cereals and the result was Chex Quest in 1996. It was huge hit and did very well as one of the first games to be put in cereal boxes. To describe this is that it is very quirky. You are on the planet Bazoik and must save the planet from the Flemoids. A very cheesy story, but kids might get some enjoyment.
Put forth, this is a non-violent answer to Doom. It's a first person shooter and you are eradicating aliens rather than monsters. There is no references to Hell or any of that. You go through the five levels, running through corridors and passages to find colored keys and find the exit. Weaponry is science fiction at its finest and function like Doom's weaponry. The same can be said for the powerups, which more or less function the same way.
Graphically, it may imitate Doom in a way, but it's not too shabby. There is definitely its own style, and everything is very cartoonish. It has a distinct charm to it and the visuals show that off very well. It's audio is not the worst I've heard. The music is there, but it's pretty forgettable. Sound effects are vintage sci-fi and they give you that impression of being on an alien planet. Developer Digital Cafe got it nailed down somewhat in both facets.
Since it is Doom, (it's running on Id Tech 1, Doom's engine) you can alter a lot of the same things there in Chex Quest. Difficulty is less aliens on the easiest and more on the hardest. There's an equivalency of Nightmare on here. It gives you the ability to save and load files. The controls can modified anyway. Even the screen size and graphic details can be altered. After all, this is Windows 95. There are a number of secrets to find and the levels are decent in size and rather complex for being only five levels. It seemed like there was a bit of care put into the development, something certain Doom wannabes did not try back then.
It's not the easiest game out there, but not too difficult. Whether you think it's too short or long enough is up to you. Overall, the package is what it is for being in millions of cereal boxes. Check out Chex Quest. A unique twist of the first person shooter that you can have kids play.
Score: 7 out of 10.
Put forth, this is a non-violent answer to Doom. It's a first person shooter and you are eradicating aliens rather than monsters. There is no references to Hell or any of that. You go through the five levels, running through corridors and passages to find colored keys and find the exit. Weaponry is science fiction at its finest and function like Doom's weaponry. The same can be said for the powerups, which more or less function the same way.
Graphically, it may imitate Doom in a way, but it's not too shabby. There is definitely its own style, and everything is very cartoonish. It has a distinct charm to it and the visuals show that off very well. It's audio is not the worst I've heard. The music is there, but it's pretty forgettable. Sound effects are vintage sci-fi and they give you that impression of being on an alien planet. Developer Digital Cafe got it nailed down somewhat in both facets.
Since it is Doom, (it's running on Id Tech 1, Doom's engine) you can alter a lot of the same things there in Chex Quest. Difficulty is less aliens on the easiest and more on the hardest. There's an equivalency of Nightmare on here. It gives you the ability to save and load files. The controls can modified anyway. Even the screen size and graphic details can be altered. After all, this is Windows 95. There are a number of secrets to find and the levels are decent in size and rather complex for being only five levels. It seemed like there was a bit of care put into the development, something certain Doom wannabes did not try back then.
It's not the easiest game out there, but not too difficult. Whether you think it's too short or long enough is up to you. Overall, the package is what it is for being in millions of cereal boxes. Check out Chex Quest. A unique twist of the first person shooter that you can have kids play.
Score: 7 out of 10.
Monday, May 7, 2018
A Yankee Youth Movement
A few years ago, the New York Yankees made some trades and were developing their farm system. Last year, a part of this Baby Bombers group led the charge into the ALCS. For this year, they have been on a tear the last 18 games, winning 16. What is going on and how are they doing this? It's these kids that they are bringing up and delivering in grand style.
While not a young player, Didi Gregorius' three plus years with the team has been a big deal. Since being traded from Arizona, he has been getting better every year and has been one of the few bright spots. Even his numbers last year said a lot despite missing the first month with injury. At 28, he has lot more years left and it would be wise to keep him.
The last two seasons have given Yankee fans a sight to see with Gary Sanchez. He was quick in hitting 20 home runs during the second half of the 2016 season. Last year, he broke Jorge Posada's record of most home runs in a season by a Yankee catcher. Some questionable defense here and there, but his power is something to be amazed. Same can be said for Aaron Judge. Some struggles in 2016 (42 strikeouts in 84 at bats), he claimed AL Rookie of the Year with 52 home runs and leading in walks and runs scored in the AL. Strikeouts might be an issue, but this guy can be relevant for a long time.
This year has seen prospects deliver in a huge way. Gleyber Torres and Miguel Andujar have been hitting machines and creating walk off wins. Since last year, Luis Severino has found his groove as a pitcher and has made the start of the 2018 season even more special. Combined with the veterans, it has the New York Post thinking now of the 1998 team, one that is widely considered one of the greatest teams ever for baseball.
There is still a long season to go until we reach October. For now, the Yankees should keep riding high on these young guys. If anything, they are in the running to be in the World Series and maybe win it all. But, the competition is fierce with Boston, Houston, and the LA Angels. It's going to take everyone to get past them.
While not a young player, Didi Gregorius' three plus years with the team has been a big deal. Since being traded from Arizona, he has been getting better every year and has been one of the few bright spots. Even his numbers last year said a lot despite missing the first month with injury. At 28, he has lot more years left and it would be wise to keep him.
The last two seasons have given Yankee fans a sight to see with Gary Sanchez. He was quick in hitting 20 home runs during the second half of the 2016 season. Last year, he broke Jorge Posada's record of most home runs in a season by a Yankee catcher. Some questionable defense here and there, but his power is something to be amazed. Same can be said for Aaron Judge. Some struggles in 2016 (42 strikeouts in 84 at bats), he claimed AL Rookie of the Year with 52 home runs and leading in walks and runs scored in the AL. Strikeouts might be an issue, but this guy can be relevant for a long time.
This year has seen prospects deliver in a huge way. Gleyber Torres and Miguel Andujar have been hitting machines and creating walk off wins. Since last year, Luis Severino has found his groove as a pitcher and has made the start of the 2018 season even more special. Combined with the veterans, it has the New York Post thinking now of the 1998 team, one that is widely considered one of the greatest teams ever for baseball.
There is still a long season to go until we reach October. For now, the Yankees should keep riding high on these young guys. If anything, they are in the running to be in the World Series and maybe win it all. But, the competition is fierce with Boston, Houston, and the LA Angels. It's going to take everyone to get past them.
Friday, May 4, 2018
Kids Die in Hot Car= 20 Years Prison
Seems like every year, we hear the same sing and dance. Someone leaves their child in a hot car and the child winds up dying from heat exhaustion. It's a story that is heard very frequently and as time has gone on, is becoming a daily story. This one might set a precedent and it all started last year with what Cynthia Randolph did that is beyond heinous.
Back in May of last year, Randolph left two year old and one year old children in her car. During the time they were in there, she smoked marijuana, watched television and took a nap. Like all these stories you hear about, the kids died from heatstroke. Randolph would later admit it was to "teach a lesson." Recently, she has been declared guilty of two felony counts of injuring a child and will serve both 20 year sentences at the same time.
I wish I could say this is harsh, but something has to happen. Too often today, we hear these stories and it just breaks a lot of people's hearts. These two kids didn't stand a chance. They were two and one. Randolph's idea of a lesson is sickening. It's toddlers, for fuck's sake. Of course, they are going to be mischievous and curious. What else is there to expect. There are better ways to teach a lesson, and leaving them in a hot car is definitely not that.
Hopefully, this scares parents. Maybe it will give them a reminder to not forget their kids in hot cars or to punish them that doesn't involve putting them in a hot car. No one wants to spend 20 years in jail.
Back in May of last year, Randolph left two year old and one year old children in her car. During the time they were in there, she smoked marijuana, watched television and took a nap. Like all these stories you hear about, the kids died from heatstroke. Randolph would later admit it was to "teach a lesson." Recently, she has been declared guilty of two felony counts of injuring a child and will serve both 20 year sentences at the same time.
I wish I could say this is harsh, but something has to happen. Too often today, we hear these stories and it just breaks a lot of people's hearts. These two kids didn't stand a chance. They were two and one. Randolph's idea of a lesson is sickening. It's toddlers, for fuck's sake. Of course, they are going to be mischievous and curious. What else is there to expect. There are better ways to teach a lesson, and leaving them in a hot car is definitely not that.
Hopefully, this scares parents. Maybe it will give them a reminder to not forget their kids in hot cars or to punish them that doesn't involve putting them in a hot car. No one wants to spend 20 years in jail.
Thursday, May 3, 2018
Trevor Bauer's Insinuation
In today's world of baseball, batters are typically questioned whether they are using substances or steroids to boost their stats. Pitchers have mostly avoided the spotlight, though some have been questioned for the same things. Doctoring pitches is also added into it if they were to get caught. Cleveland Indians pitcher Trevor Bauer has some thoughts on the Houston Astros starting rotation.
Bauer has gone on Twitter thinking the Astros starters are using substances to help with their spin rate of the baseball. Some of them like Lance McCullers are not responding enthusiastically about this. I kind of buy into this... somewhat. I'm looking at mainly Gerrit Cole and Charlie Morton. As far as others go, Justin Verlander has always been a dominant pitcher and he has built a very solid career. Most likely, another four to five years of success, and he can be heading to Cooperstown. The only thing that seems off might be his ERA but that's not much to really go on. He's just a lethal pitcher. No way is he putting illegal substances on the ball. However we'll have to see how the year goes for him before making a final judgment.
Morton has never had a strong career Inconsistency, injuries, you name it. Even though he put up career numbers last year, it wasn't the greatest. His stuff this year is a little questionable, but he's probably the healthiest he's been in a while. Being able to pitch without batting most of the time in the American League can feel pretty good. The only thing that sticks out with Cole is his ERA and strikeouts. He's only 27 years old. I wouldn't say he's using substances to help his spin rate. If he is, shame on him, because those kind of pitchers his age can be dominant with their arms.
The only guy I've thought would doctor their pitches is Dallas Keuchel. I've seen filthy pitches in my life that can strike out batters, but nothing this filthy. Just some of his sliders seem doctored. Like Morton, he hasn't had a strong career. The last few years haven't been his best due to injury and just not being as good. Not as bad as 2012 and 2013, but still disappointing. I feel like he's the only one that would use substances on the baseball, but his career numbers just don't add up. The only other starter is Lance McCullers. I don't think he's doing anything illegal. He's still a young pitcher, still has a career in the making, so there's nothing that makes me think he's using substances.
I kind of buy it, but I don't at the same time. Verlander has been on a resurgence going back to 2016. Morton is just a healthy pitcher who isn't coming off of injury from the previous season. Cole and McCullers are young talent that can be beneficial to a team. Keuchel... I don't know. Bauer needs a lot more than just spin rates. Then again, there's worse accusations.
Bauer has gone on Twitter thinking the Astros starters are using substances to help with their spin rate of the baseball. Some of them like Lance McCullers are not responding enthusiastically about this. I kind of buy into this... somewhat. I'm looking at mainly Gerrit Cole and Charlie Morton. As far as others go, Justin Verlander has always been a dominant pitcher and he has built a very solid career. Most likely, another four to five years of success, and he can be heading to Cooperstown. The only thing that seems off might be his ERA but that's not much to really go on. He's just a lethal pitcher. No way is he putting illegal substances on the ball. However we'll have to see how the year goes for him before making a final judgment.
Morton has never had a strong career Inconsistency, injuries, you name it. Even though he put up career numbers last year, it wasn't the greatest. His stuff this year is a little questionable, but he's probably the healthiest he's been in a while. Being able to pitch without batting most of the time in the American League can feel pretty good. The only thing that sticks out with Cole is his ERA and strikeouts. He's only 27 years old. I wouldn't say he's using substances to help his spin rate. If he is, shame on him, because those kind of pitchers his age can be dominant with their arms.
The only guy I've thought would doctor their pitches is Dallas Keuchel. I've seen filthy pitches in my life that can strike out batters, but nothing this filthy. Just some of his sliders seem doctored. Like Morton, he hasn't had a strong career. The last few years haven't been his best due to injury and just not being as good. Not as bad as 2012 and 2013, but still disappointing. I feel like he's the only one that would use substances on the baseball, but his career numbers just don't add up. The only other starter is Lance McCullers. I don't think he's doing anything illegal. He's still a young pitcher, still has a career in the making, so there's nothing that makes me think he's using substances.
I kind of buy it, but I don't at the same time. Verlander has been on a resurgence going back to 2016. Morton is just a healthy pitcher who isn't coming off of injury from the previous season. Cole and McCullers are young talent that can be beneficial to a team. Keuchel... I don't know. Bauer needs a lot more than just spin rates. Then again, there's worse accusations.
Tuesday, May 1, 2018
When Is Something Mediocre?
Everyone wants something to be at the minimum, enjoyable. At the maximum, good or great. It's all subjective because there are those that enjoy the bad stuff. However, there are the few things that even if one were to enjoy something bad, even they would admit it's not that great. When does the mediocrity occur?
One of these examples is a game that I am going through right now with Knack. It was out the same day the PlayStation 4 launched in 2013. Probably not halfway through and I noticed how mundane and monotonous it was a few chapters in. It's a by the numbers platformer. Nothing stands out other than the main character. Level designs are very linear. The difficulty is not even a good challenge. You take too much damage from enemies and it's very easy to die, leading to very cheap moments and poor checkpoint locations. It's a tech demo for the system. Maybe a rental, but not a game I would fully recommend.
When a television show is good, it can string some great episodes in a row and be given some slack for a few that are not above the standard it delivered. It's hard to judge one's inaugural debut because you don't know what to expect. If I were to judge, I would give the first two to four episodes a chance before either giving up or continuing to watch. If it's that bad of a pilot, maybe one more episode if you can stomach it. Otherwise, give up on it. It's mostly subjective since even shows considered great have its critics. Some louder for some shows than others.
Those two examples can happen at any time with a franchise or something that has been around for a very long time. Say a show has ran for eight years and that the first six were very good and the last two you found to be average or mediocre. It's a crapshoot when it boils down to movies and music. The former can easily be found on cable most of the time and the latter has so much material, you can wade through all the garbage to find what you want online. What about if you were to go to a theater or get a CD or vinyl? That's up to you. You are putting up the risk to see or listen to something you hope is at worst decent. How much you can stomach before you leave the theater is on you. Same with the music and the tracks they offer.
I enjoy my share of good and bad things, but when it's mediocre, it's fairly forgettable. Happy hunting in the search for what you consider good. There is plenty of stuff to find.
One of these examples is a game that I am going through right now with Knack. It was out the same day the PlayStation 4 launched in 2013. Probably not halfway through and I noticed how mundane and monotonous it was a few chapters in. It's a by the numbers platformer. Nothing stands out other than the main character. Level designs are very linear. The difficulty is not even a good challenge. You take too much damage from enemies and it's very easy to die, leading to very cheap moments and poor checkpoint locations. It's a tech demo for the system. Maybe a rental, but not a game I would fully recommend.
When a television show is good, it can string some great episodes in a row and be given some slack for a few that are not above the standard it delivered. It's hard to judge one's inaugural debut because you don't know what to expect. If I were to judge, I would give the first two to four episodes a chance before either giving up or continuing to watch. If it's that bad of a pilot, maybe one more episode if you can stomach it. Otherwise, give up on it. It's mostly subjective since even shows considered great have its critics. Some louder for some shows than others.
Those two examples can happen at any time with a franchise or something that has been around for a very long time. Say a show has ran for eight years and that the first six were very good and the last two you found to be average or mediocre. It's a crapshoot when it boils down to movies and music. The former can easily be found on cable most of the time and the latter has so much material, you can wade through all the garbage to find what you want online. What about if you were to go to a theater or get a CD or vinyl? That's up to you. You are putting up the risk to see or listen to something you hope is at worst decent. How much you can stomach before you leave the theater is on you. Same with the music and the tracks they offer.
I enjoy my share of good and bad things, but when it's mediocre, it's fairly forgettable. Happy hunting in the search for what you consider good. There is plenty of stuff to find.
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