Random Ninja Attack

Gotham City Impostors

2012-01-27T10:10:00.000-08:00

A short time ago the beta version of Gotham Coty Impostors went available for download on the PSN. Always wanting to test play games, I scooped up the opportunity instantly and have been having a blast. GCI is an online multiplayer shooter taking place in the DCU; more accurately in Gotham City. During the game you play as a member of either the Bats or the Jokerz, groups inspired by either Batman or the Joker. With a host of unique adhoc weapons and gadgets and colorful costumes, these groups take to the streets and wage war.
The art is stylized much like a comic, fitting with the DCU, and the graphics are quite impressive. 2D graphics in the menus add humor, showing the tone of the game. The control scheme is quite simple and intuitive, making the game easy to jump into. As you play through matches you gain experience and points with which to customize your character. There are several types of characters, each with unique load outs and special benefits; i.e. the "tank" character takes and deals more damage. However; you can create a custom load out, as well as appearance, voice and costume for both your Bats character and Jokerz character.
This being a beta, it may not completely represent the final product; but if it does, I would be greatly satisfied. Without divulging any further details, I will say that in some places the lip synching to dialogue was a bit off, but the action and gameplay were very enjoyable. This game appears to have a great comic book style and humor. If you have the chance, I suggest checking this beta out. It is a must play.

SOPA BLACKOUT

2012-01-18T08:33:00.000-08:00

Update

2012-01-04T12:22:00.000-08:00

I know it has been quite a while since I've had a post, but I hope that soon I will get back into the groove of regular posting.

I've just got a new computer with which to edit videos and such. Hopefully this means I will finally get around to finishing the videos I've fallen way behind on. The tech difficulties aren't done however. I still have things to deal with as well as my own personal situation.

Hopefully soon I will have a real post and even a review,

9-10-11

2011-09-10T16:04:00.001-07:00

Today is 9-10-11!

Attack on Multiplayer Shooters

2011-08-21T21:36:00.000-07:00

This is an impromptu attack brought on by a recent experience playing an online multiplayer shooter. Online shooters can be really enjoyable; especially if you are having a great time playing with nice people who can take themselves seriously and have fun at the same time. Then you get people who just run around and shoot anything that moves (even if its a teammate) You "meet" all sorts of people playing online games, including the aforementioned. And people's skill levels will vary.
There will be inexperienced Newbies who want to have fun and get better at the game. You will find the moderate players who are pretty skilled, but don't play like a religion. Veterans are highly skilled due to hours and hours of hard work; and Hardcore Vets who eat breath and sleep the game until they have perfected their skill. Each of these usually want to have fun or even play a serious game; however, dotted amongst all of these classes you will find Noobs. Noobs are jerks who don't care about gaming etiquette, other people's enjoyment, or common courtesy. They are often boastful of their supposed prowess, and won't miss an opportunity to let everyone know they are "Tha Man." These are the people that suck the fun out of online gaming. Months ago I quit playing online because of Noobs and now that I am back into it, I'm fining that they still irk me so.
One of the most common offenses Noobs commit is Spawn Camping. In online shooters, multiplayer shooters/ adventure games each player spawns (or comes to life) at specific spots in the map called Spawn Points. Sometimes they can be anywhere on the map, or they can be in specified locations (like a team base or hub.) Camping is when a player holes up in one spot and stays there to pick off the others at their whim. While some frown at just camping at a serious offense, I have to remind you that Snipers work that way.
Spawn Camping is when a player holes up where they have an excellent vantage of a Spawning Point and kills the other players as they appear. The effected player has no time to react, they are dead on arrival. The offending player (or Noob) is only limited by their ammo. This has the effect of ticking off the other players. No one except the Noob will be having any fun.
A slight offshoot of this is when players run through the Spawning Points, killing the appearing players as they pass. This is less offensive, especially if the offending players don't linger.
But why is this such a problem? And believe me it ticks me off something fierce when this happens. To me, the level designers should have taken this into account and made it impossible (or at least very difficult) for the opposing team to reach the other's Spawn Point. This would cut down on Noobery and increase the enjoyment of everyone.
Noobs are no fun, and players like that should not be allow to play.
On the other hand, Newbs (Newbies) should be given a chance to gain experience and increase their skills and not made a mockery of.
Wow, posting this made me feel a bit better...but I'm still ticked (>.<)

Beanie Teaser Trailer

2011-07-13T22:25:00.000-07:00

After the events of Power On, Beanie attempts to have a bit of rest, but is called in on an urgent task to begin his long awaited review show. I filmed this shortly after watching Clerks, hence the homage at the start. Due to technical difficulties the actual review is behind schedule, so I decided to use the episodes opening as a teaser for the new series. The episode should be up before the end of July. Special Thanks to Dizzy Lizzy for portraying the postal worker. The music heard is the "Twisted Nerve" from Kill Bill Part 1. The ending sound clip is the game over screen from Metal Gear.

Dizzy Lizzy Vlog 1 - Van's Warped Tour 2011

2011-06-30T22:49:00.000-07:00

Dizzy Lizzy, the music-loving younger sister of self-famed internet personality Beanie, has just returned from her annual trip to attend Van's Warped Tour, and is ready to share her experience. Photos and Video are from Warped Tours 13, 16, and 17. Bands shown playing live are Every Avenue, Terrible Things, The Mighty Regis, and All American Rejects.
Music during the titles is "(Don't Fear) The Reaper" by Blue Öyster Cult
Other music is the property of the bands performing

Fairy Tale Theatre

2011-06-22T20:29:00.000-07:00

What is "Fairy Tale Theatre" you ask? It is an annual summer camp geared toward entertaining and enlightening children on the ancient art of stage-craft. Over 3 weeks, dozens of children participate in either of the four plays for the production. These children will learn how to act on and off the stage. They will also learn the ins and outs of a stage play, from: taking direction, applying make-up, wearing costumes, and set construction. It is a fun program for children from the ages of 7 to 18.

Why am I showing this on RNA? Because this year I am one of the directors. The above video clip is a short advertisement for my play. I have had a wonderful time working with this group of kids, and we're going to put on quite a show.

A Brief Conversation With Tak Fujii

2011-06-20T20:11:00.000-07:00

I sat down to Twitter today in a bit of a Bum mood because of some news which I won't go into detail about. For some reason I had been having a bad day even though (for me at least) nothing was going wrong. It could just be my pent up stress releasing itself in a negative way, but I've been down. Anyway, I log onto Twitter and I'm still in a bum mood. Nothing good is happening in the world--I'm not even eating my dinner of home cooked southern fried chicken with cheesy macaroni and boiled green beans (one of my favorite comfort meals.) I'm just about to log out for the night when a tweet pops up from Tak Fujii, a producer at Konami. Tak has been following me for a little while now--funny thing is: here I am, a talented artist in my own right, but otherwise a nobody in the world; and Tak Fujii starts following me. I'm pretty sure he began following me before I followed him. It was all around E3 so I'm a little fuzzy on the details.

Anyway, I reply to his post--mainly just for fun but genuinely concerned. Again, I was about to log off when another post by Mr. Fujii popped up. This time it was a reply to me! I was surprised. Rarely does anyone reply to my own posts, let alone someone in the gaming industry. Flabbergasted, I replied again--hoping that he would again reply. A few minutes later he did. This was unprecedented! Never before had I received two replies from the same person. That justifies a conversation! I replied once more with my fingers crossed; I waited and waited, but there was not a third reply. Eventually he tweeted again--this time not directed to me, but still relative to the conversation. This tweet effectively ended the conversation; and I would have continued, but I felt I'd be pushing my luck.

I have no idea why Tak Fujii started following me on Twitter. It could be that I follow Konami and other industry people, and that he's the kind of guy that actually follows fans; or it could be (but highly unlikely) that he's seen my videos or checked out my blog, deciding to follow me. For whatever reason, I am glad that he does follow me on Twitter and that he was kind enough to indulge me in a brief conversation. It greatly improved my mood. What was the conversation about? Hospitals. Don't believe me? Here it is.

I made this image in Twitter format so the conversation begins at the bottom and goes up.

He's quite a character, but then again, so am I :)

DOS Games

2011-06-17T13:24:00.000-07:00

I'm fortunate to be part of a generation that grew up with video games. Many young gamers today have the same opportunity only with much more advanced games and consoles. In an industry that's really only been around for 30 years, there has been significant leaps in the technology--especially within the past decade. Here's an example of how gaming has evolved: Back in the 80s and early 90s computers were run on an operating system called DOS (disk operating system). From here you could run all of your computer's programs, including games. Games, as well as other programs, were on floppy disks which you could insert into the computer's modem and access. Now-a-days on either computers or on gaming consoles, video games are available in a variety of medium--the main two being disks in the form of CD, DVD, or BluRay format; or in a purely digital capacity. As a comparison to the memory taken up by games, Space Quest (a well-known DOS game) takes up 688 Kilobytes of memory or 688,000 bytes; whereas Infamous for the PS3 takes up 7 Gigabytes or roughly 7,000,000 bytes of information. And there is roughly a 20 year gap between the games. Ergo, within the last 2 decades the size of the average video game has exponentially grown tenfold. The popularity of gaming has also been on the rise since the turn of the millenium. This can be attributed to the increased availablity of games and their consoles. Everyone can be a gamer: grandparents, adults, teens, even young children. It is a fantastic world to live in.
But I'm rambling. When I was younger I was introduced to gaming through DOS. I would play Oregon Trail at school, Lemmings in my summer computer camp, and others at home or with friends. Of course this was long before the boon in gaming that came with the mid 90s--when the console wars began; and I didn't truly become (what I would call) a gamer until after Sony released the PlayStation. But I still have my roots in DOS computer games. Recently I've been pouring over the internet searching for programs and peripherals to download and play some of the old DOS games that began my interest in games. Finally my search has come to fruition and I have been granted access to many titles including but not limited to: The Elder Scrolls, the (in)famous Sierra games like the Space Quest and King's Quest series, and one of my favorite DOS games of all time--Scorched Earth. Having complete access to these games has given me a thought bubble--"I can do DOS Let's Plays now!" And I have every intention to follow through with that. I haven't yet decided if I'm going to have them as part of the Power On series or just as their own entity, but they will get done. Games that are not practical to do LPs of, I will still try to play and get footage to use for review purposes. I am excited about this. So be on the look out for the first DOS Let's Play (hopefully soon) when Beanie Plays: Space Quest!

Review Requests

2011-06-09T11:47:00.000-07:00

With the season 1 finale (hopefully) close at hand, it is time to start thinking of the future. In the fall, Power On will be back with a vengeance. The episodes will actually have reviews in them. I know! Exciting right? So I'm going to ask if there are any reviews that my viewers would like to see. Any game, any movie, any TV show. Now keep in mind that I may or may not be able to capture footage for some. Either way, they will be done in some capacity. So please, if you have anything you want to get reviewed by Beanie or Random Ninja post in the comments.

Welcom Back, PlayStation Network

2011-06-07T11:40:00.000-07:00

Sony is bouncing back from it's recent hacker scare with moxie. The PSN store and PS Home are back to full operating status, to the cheer of thousands of users. To thank all of the users patience during PSN hiatus, they have set up a couple appreciation programs within the PlayStation Store and Home.
Welcome Back is program within the PlayStation Store where users will be able to download certain purchases free of charge; such as, a 30 day free subscription to PlayStation Plus and all the services therein, be able to download two PS3 games and two PSP games free of charge--a total of 4 games, and purchase a free theme for their PS3. The free subscription will end after 30 days with no roll-over. This means that you don't have to worry about paying for an additional subscription--unless you want to join Plus that it. This also means that anything you buy using it will only last for the 30 days. The free games are picked from a set of five games--not any game offered over PSS. The PS3 games are: Dead Nation, inFamous, Little Big Planet, Super Stardust HD, and the Wipeout HD bundle. Users can pick any two of these using the Welcome Back program. There are also PSP games available for free download. Those are: Killzone: Liberation, Little Big Planet (PSP), ModNation Racers (PSP) and Pursuit Force. Just like with the PS3 titles, any two of these can be downloaded. Pixel Wonderland Dynamic Theme is available using Welcome Back as well. It is an 8-bit scene of woodland life along a shore in what appears to be Alaska. There are random sprites all over, some moving--including a moose, a beaver, and a whale. I do not know how long this reward program will be active, so I suggest jumping on it soon.
Welcome Home is a similar program within PlayStation Home. 100 free items are available through the Central Plaza Kiosk. Among these items are costumes, furniture, decorations, and personal spaces. I will not list every single Item, but the personal spaces are Home Mansion Garage, and Dragon's Lair. This 100 item bundle is only the first phase of the reward program; one can only guess at what is next in store for the faithful PSN users.

Demo Review - Infamous 2 and Red Faction: Armageddon

2011-06-02T22:25:00.000-07:00

Since the PlayStation Store has returned from it's hiatus dealing with the hacking incident, I have downloaded a few demos and have played some. Here is basically a reactionary posting detailing my initial reaction to Infamous 2 and Red Faction: Armageddon.

Red Faction: Armageddon
I have not been much of a Red Faction fan in the past, I'm sorry to say. That is mainly due to a lack of exposure to the games themselves. To my knowledge, I haven't actually played any of them for one reason or another; however, I did download this demo, and without any preconceptions I think I can give an honest review on the gameplay and the quality of the game itself (well at least the demo)
Right from the get-go we see our protagonist being run out of town and forced to escape into the sewers--nice. Every game needs a sewer level, don't you think? Well, to be fair, it's not a typical sewer level. You are definitely under ground. You are quickly introduced to the controls, which I have to applaud the designers on. A fairly straightforward design keeps it simple enough for anyone to play, but still has enough variety to keep the action interesting. The left analogue stick is for movement--forward, backward, and side-to-side. Pressing the left stick enables your character to sprint. The right stick is for looking up, down, and left to right. Pressing the right stick initiates a melee attack. I've always been a little confused by this in games--to me melee attack should be one of the shoulder buttons. Speaking of...L1 allows you to take aim with your selected weapon and R1 (more affectionately known as the trigger) is for firing said weapon. There is a new game mechanic introduced called "Nanites" which by way of R2 produces a shockwave attack--either in a "Hulk smash!" kind of way or in a directional attack--which will send your enemies flying and damage your surroundings. By using L2 the "Nanites" reconstruct demolished structures. In order to accomplish this the player must hold down L2 and keep the "stream" in the direction of the desired reconstruction. This is only a temporary reconstruction, lasting long enough for the player to proceed. Now for the face buttons. The d-pad is used to select weapons--one being allotted to each direction--making in-fight weapon switching quick-paced and simple without needing to take the player out of the action. The triangle crouches the player, while the X button makes them jump. Circle enables you to dodge attacks by rolling either forward, backward, or side-to-side depending on which direction with the Left stick the player is moving. Square is the action button as well as allowing the player to reload their selected weapon. Among the weapons presented in the demo are your standard assault riffle--a staple of action games, a magnet gun which fires twice--once for the anchor and once for the reciever (during the demo I actually found little use for this apart from gleefully sending enemies flying into the distance--yet strangely it is currently the highest user voted weapon on Red Faction's website,) a grenade launcher which fires remotely detonated sticky grenades--it was gratifying to come across an enemy, fire the grenade and see their "Oh, Sh**!" faces just before you detonate the charge (which is done by pressing the action button,) and finally my personal favorite, the singularity cannon--a gun which fires miniature black holes! I'm not joking, it is a gun that fires mini-black holes! Upon impact a spacial singularity is created, sucking in everything within its radius until is explodes. I found it very useful when ambushed by a horde of enemies.
I familiarized myself with the controls quite rapidly, and was very comfortable as I moved through the sewer tunnels. Not being familiar with the series, I don't know if the enemies were new to the game or were staples. They reminded me of the monsters in the Doom or Duke Nukem games of old--kind of demonic/insect/alien looking creatures coming to eat your lunch. Eventually you reach a point where your character enters a power suit. I'm not sure what it was called, but it was your standard armored suit complete with machine guns and missiles. Once in it you have to run a gauntlet of metal structures and oncoming monsters.
The destruction engine (sorry, I'm not familiar with its actual name) from Guerrilla is back, and with the added ability to reconstruct the environments as well, it is better than ever. A few times I found myself wondering around, just to see what I could put back together. All-in-all, the demo had decent action, amazing graphics, great controls, and ok voice acting; but was pretty straight forward. There were no twists nor turns from the presented path--or if there were, they only led to more ammo. Although it is just a demo, maybe there will be a bit more variety in the actual game. Red Faction: Armageddon is Random Ninja Approved. Based on the demo I'd give it at least a 4 out of 5.

Infamous 2
Now unlike with Red Faction, I have played the original Infamous. I loved the first game despite its flaws in controls. The stylized look to everything, really gave the appearance of a gritty superhero story--made all the better with the comic book-like panels in the cut-scenes. However, one of the best aspects, apart from it being a free-roam sandbox style game, was the karma meter. Based on your decisions during the story, you either received positive or negative karma, which in turn enabled you to have different powers--much like the Knights of the Old Republic series. Well all of the things I loved about the first game are back in the sequel...almost. It is still a free-roam sandbox game with an ever changing karma meter tracking either your rise to grace or your fall into darkness, and the comic-style panels are back as well. However, I am not sold on Cole's new look or voice. Cole is the main character, a messenger/delivery man who inadvertently destroyed a large chunk of Empire City (the game's equivalent to New York City) simultaneously gaining supernatural powers and killing thousands of people. In Infamous 2, Cole and his sidekick Zeke have traveled to the game's equivalent to New Orleans (sorry I can't remember the name) under the belief that Cole will acquire new powers which he will use to defeat a coming enemy called "The Beast"
The demo is quite expansive, allowing the player near-full range of Cole's abilities--at least the ones achieved in the first game plus a few new ones. Right from the start, I could tell that there would be a problem with the controls. It was also a problem with the first one. They are too sensitive. You barely press the left stick to move, and Cole has gone sprinting in that direction. The amount of pressure applied to the controls determines Cole's speed. Right stick moves the camera--unlike with Red Faction, Cole doesn't actually look in the direction you move the camera. In order to use Cole's lightning, you must press and hold L1 to aim. This is one of my preferred controller moves. The best example being in Metal Gear Solid 4, how the trigger (R1) was both the melee attack and weapon fire button, however, the weapon only fires if you hold down L1 as well. This allows the player to have more control over combat. Although that's where the game's controls similarities end. Cole does have a melee attack, but it is done by pressing the square button. rather than having a combination of buttons, one only needs to repeatedly bash the square button until a small gauge fills up. This represents the amp--which is a new weapon introduced in the game. To me it looks like a wicked bat that Cole used to bash his enemies. Once the gauge fills up, you can press the triangle button to perform a killing move (for lack of a better term) There are a few different ones and they are each awesome and acrobatic. The other face buttons used with L1 use different lightning attacks. A new move introduced is a way for Cole to move objects--much like Magneto--he can lift and hurl them using his electricity to generate magnetic fields. Cole is also a free climber, which is a big part of the game. He scales buildings and other structures with relative ease; however, it's not that easy and (at least in the first game) his climbing was too sensitive like the other controls--he would grab when you don't want him to.
The demo jumps around the story of the game--going between at 4 different mission and alternating whether Cole is good or evil. To start he's good and uses his powers to take down some thugs calling themselves the Militia while trying to find a shard that will grant him more powers. Once that is over, the demo skips to a later mission. Only this time, Cole is evil. His powers are slightly different to reflect his attitude. It is in this section that the players are introduced to the supernatural thugs--reavers(I think) After you stop a fight between the Militia and the Revers( sorry I'm not sure how it's supposed to be spelled) he is sent to rescue a kidnapped girl--though she looks likes she's in her 20s The girl leads you to her uncle, who is apparently leading a resistance against the Militia. After a few words, another monster called a devourer arrives. This guy is big--not the biggest thing Cole has ever fought, but large all the same and with a hard rocky hide which appears to be impervious to lightning; however, the inside of his mouth looks fleshy and vulnerable. Putting 2 and 2 together, I immediately began tossing lightning grenades into his roaring mouth until I killed the monster. After this victory, the demo shifts once again. Cole is good once more and is sent to retrieve some cases of medical supplies from the Militia. This section introduces another power called the ionic vortex. Using great amounts of power Cole can create an electric tornado which draws in enemies (and other things) and will usually destroy everything. The first time I activated it, I accidentally did it in the middle of a busy intersection. It looked amazing. Arcing lightning dances along the telephone lines as a swirling torrent sucked in all of the pedestrians and cars. It was over in a matter of seconds, but it wowed me. After collecting three of the cases I made for the fourth, and thinking that the demo would end soon I unleashed a vortex on a large contingent of Militia surrounding my prize. Again it was glorious, but I was correct, the demo ended with that.
I'm finding this one to be a tough call. While I love the concept of the game, the powers, the premise and the look and feel; I can't seem to get over my hang ups on the controls. They are just too sensitive. And for a game that has visceral action like this, maybe the sensitivity should have been toned down a bit. Not a lot--just a bit. The demo for 2 did seem to be more refined than the first, but on the whole, it had the same feel while I was running around. Even with my hang-ups I quickly acclimated to the control scheme and was quite adept at running about, jumping, and gliding through the air. Climbing is where I had the most trouble, but with more practice...
Anyway, based on the demo I give this game a solid 4 out of 5. It is Random Ninja Approved, but maybe they should reduce the sensitivity to the controls. Oh, and I typically don't like it when water kills your character--at least these give you a chance to get out, but really...

Keep an eye out for my next Demo Review, where I discuss LEGO Pirates of the Caribbean and Wizardry: Labyrinth of Lost Souls (the other 2 demos I downloaded)

(note: Images above are the official box art for the PS3 games.)

Updates Again

2011-06-01T14:33:00.000-07:00

A Note from the Random Ninja:

Things are in the works which I hope will increase the audience of Power On and the number of visitors to this blog. As the 2-year anniversary draws closer, I like to keep my head held high and take pride in myself for doing this. Even though my viewer total has been rather low, I like to think that somewhere out there someone watches my insane ramblings and cares about my viewpoint of games and movies. I've had several compliments from some readers--mainly through email--but the sentiment is the same no matter the outlet. As I have stated in previous "UPDATE" posts, Power On will be continued for another "season" but will return to it's initial "review" roots rather than be just spoof videos. I plan to coordinate with my partner Kyle (of Muzak Corner) to work on the reviews and the storyline as the episodes move on. Of course, the season finale of Power On needs to come first. I am working on that as fast as I can; however, there are several factors that attribute to its tardiness. Chief among them being commitments to my local community theatre troupe. Along with being an avid gamer and outspoken opinionist of pop-media--or at least I am in my fantasies--I am an actor, writer, and director with my local theatre. This particular season, I have been involved with almost every production. This summer I am directing for the children' summer program called Fairy Tales, which is like a theatre summer camp.
Couple that with my home life, trying to find a job, and trying to plan my own wedding (sorry girls, I'm spoken for) it leaves little time to produce videos on a regular basis. Do not fret, as I am diligently working on videos.
Bad Anime Night will be reworked to fit into season 2 of Power On rather than be a stand alone episode. The finale of season one is 3/4 finished and some work is still being done with its production. Production has already begun with season 2, this is to avoid a situation where I will fall as behind as I am now. A lot of the problem is that the original season had no creative direction until halfway through. When I began I was just a small voice in a large pond. While my voice is still small, my viewer average has been steadily growing (though not as quickly as I would like it to be.)
More videos not related to Power On are in the works as well. Many of them have been on the back burner for a good 2 years--at least--however, they are on the way. I will also try to get more text reviews done as the summer goes on. I'm sure that people will be looking for reviews of the summer blockbuster movies, and I've already fallen behind by not reviewing PotC4, Thor, and The Hangover: Part 2. But you might be able to see my comments on Spoony's website about them. And unlike usual I will end with a list of definite videos and or text reviews I will do. They are not in a particular order, so don't go expecting them like this.

Top 10 video game heroes
Top 10 video game villains
Top 10 video games
Top 10 turncoats in popular media (games, movies, tv shows)
Top 10 characters from (movies and tv)
Top 10 movies
Perfect Blue--review
Bad Anime Night--a review of Defenders of Space
a review of a cheesy kung fu movie (haven't decided on movie yet)
Top 10 songs in video games
Top 10 music moments in games (these are specific moments which may or may not relate to above list)
A look at Metal Storm NES Game
Lets Play: Shadow of the Colossus (will most likely be in 16 or 17 parts due to game length.
Lets Play: Metal Gear (MSX, 1987)

An Absurdly Genius Plan

2011-05-29T18:16:00.000-07:00

The waters of the mighty Mississippi River have risen up to claim the land, and Texas is plagued by drought and wildfires. One man has come forward with a plan to save everyone.

A Bit of Nostalgia

2011-05-13T16:54:00.000-07:00

Recently I've been holed up in my room watching entire series of shows on Netflix instant stream. It's been great for the most part, however things have been a bit confusing with some of the shows. Like sometimes, certain episodes wont be available, or they'll be out of order, or the audio won't sync just right. But I still watch and it's a great way to spend family time.
One thing I really enjoy Netflix for is reconnecting me with childhood television shows. I have loads of fun watching them, and I am often surprised at how well some of the shows translate decades later. One In particular that I've watched recently is Jackie Chan Adventures. For those who don't remember this show, it was an action adventure cartoon with a mix of sci-fi and fantasy. The story centers around Jackie Chan (yes the character is based on the action-star) an archeologist hired by a secret government organization to research ancient artifacts that are being targeted by a world-wide criminal organization called the Dark Hand. But it is discovered by Jackie's uncle a cranky old antiquities merchant and master in the art of chi magic, that these relics hold ancient magic. It also turns out that the Dark Hand is doing the bidding of a demon named Shen-do(doo) who is trapped in a statue form unless he can gain all of these powers. Things really get out of hand when Jackie is forced to care for his rambunctious niece, Jade.
It was a cleverly written show with many homages, nods, tips of the hat, and otherwise references to movies and pop culture (before it became cliché to do so. Many of these jokes I didn't catch until seeing the show again as an adult. They are too numerous for me to list them here, but just watch any episode and there is at least one.
While I would love to go on about the show itself, this particular entry is not about the show itself, but how it was presented to me on Netflix.
While most of the main story episodes were presented in order, there were a number of episodes out of place. For example, There were 2 episodes near the end of season 2 that obviously take place in the middle of season 1. There were other problems like this throughout every season. It makes it confusing to the watcher when something is amiss or there is a plot element that appears before it is introduced in a later episode. There will be a mass of filler episodes between the climax and the previous story episode. I can understand if the filler episodes are scattered more evenly, but this is ridiculous.
Some confusion is a fault of the show itself. Plot elements will be brought up and never seen again, or never explained. I cannot avoid spoilers on these examples. In season 2 they come across a magic suit of armor that grants the wearer more endurance, speed, strength, etc. But they only use it in that episode. Many situations arise in later seasons where it would have been a good idea to break out that armor, but it never comes back. I think the writers forgot it existed. Also in season 2, one of the characters is neither seen nor mentioned for like half of the season - as if they didn't exist. Near the end of season 4 an antagonist (who will become the main antagonist of season 5) shows up with no explanation, and no one questions his origins - he is never explained. Things like this detract from the overall experience, and a lot of it could have been fixed either in re-organizing the episodes and adding just a tidbit of info here and there. Overall though I really enjoy the show and watching shows and movies on Netflix. Now if only Netflix delivered games as well...

Portal 2

2011-04-23T05:45:00.000-07:00

Here we are, nearly 4 years later, and Portal 2 has hit the shelves for our consumption. In 2007, Valve wowed the gaming world with Portal - a short, first-person shooter/ platformer/ puzzle-solver hybrid game. The player took on the role of Chell, a test subject working for Aperture Science Laboratories. Under the close watch and guidance of a omniscient supercomputer called GLaDOS, Chell was made to move through logical obstacle courses with the aid of a portable portal generator device. Along the way she used weighted storage cubes to open doors via large buttons, and the two-way portal gun to zip around the testing arena. As the game progressed, the tests became more difficult, and Chell began to realize that GLaDOS was not completely sane. At one point, the supercomputer lured Chell into a certain death-trap; however, by now the player was quite adept at making quick portal placing decisions and escaped into the service areas of the lab. GLaDOS continued in her attempts to kill the player; but ultimately, Chell reached GLaDOS' chamber and dismantled her. In the ensuing explosion, Chell was knocked out and dragged away by some unknown figure without ever getting the cake that was promised her.

Fast forward to 2011. Portal 2 is released after a clever and highly successful promotional campaign including free play of the original and YouTube videos showing the new game play elements. The story in Portal 2 picks up an undetermined amount of time after the end of the original. Once again, the player takes up the role of Chell, who has been in a prolonged state of stasis since her defeat of GLaDOS. It is never explained in-game how she wound up in her room; however there is an online comic that bridges the gap between the games called Lab Rat. I suggest checking it out. Chell is awakened by the whole facility rumbling, she is introduced to a morality core named Wheatley, a bumbling incompetent fool. Right from the start, players are introduced to the major tone of the game: humor. Much of the dialogue is humorous, just like in the original Portal; however there are more voices besides GLaDOS this time around. Among the characters appearing in voice are Wheatley, Cave Johnson - Aperture's CEO, and GLaDOS. While avoiding spoilers I will attempt to explain the awesomesauce of the game.

While trying to escape the facility, Wheatly and Chell inadvertently awaken GLaDOS who was in a deep slumber - a sleep mode if you will. The vindictive computer then sends Chell back into the testing grounds, where she must go through tests even more difficult than before. Through her journey she will discover the origins of Aperture and abandoned sections of the lab. She will move through antiquated structures as well as the sleek futuristic ones familiar to players of the original. The plot is much more expansive; and just when the player thinks it's over, it's just beginning. On the whole, Portal 2's story is almost 2.5 times longer than that of the original. Delving the player deep into the world of Aperture science and why GLaDOS is the way she is.

Among the many new gameplay elements are hard light beams which can be used a bridges or walls, excursion tunnels which are like tractor beams, thermal discouragement beams - your standard deadly laser, and aerial faith plates which catapult the player and objects high into the air. These in combination with the cubes and portal gun add a whole new dimension to the puzzle-solving game. Of course the polite turrets make a return as well, and have a much bigger part than before as Chell moves through the bowels of Aperture Science Laboratories in her attempt to escape.

Along with the standard single-player story, Portal 2 also features an extensive multiplayer campaign. Players can connect either through their respective online networks (X-Box Live, PSN, etc) or through Steam on either PC or Mac to play with each other, or two players can play on the same system with split-screen co-op. The co-op storyline is separate from the single-player campaign (completing one is not required to play the other) While they are not directly linked, each mode is referenced during the other which does add to some form of cohesiveness to the overall game. In co-op, players will take control of two robots, Atlas and P-Body, who like Chell, are forced to test endlessly; however, unlike Chell, they cannot die. Oh, they can be destroyed, but players are not forced to restart from a checkpoint each time they are. The robots are instantly respawned close by, but their portals vanish. Vocal communication is not required to play co-op as the players can communicate with bot gestures such as waves, high fives, etc. or by using a marker they can place which is visible to the other player. Each bot also has a 2-way portal device, which enables the use of 4 total portals open at one time. Many of the tests require as many to successfully complete. In other words, 2 players are required. You cannot simply delve in by yourself. (actually I've been playing by myself using 2 controllers - some of the test are quite difficult like this, because timing needs to be perfect between the two bots to attain victory. Along the way, GLaDOS will taunt you, but admit that the two of you are forming an excellent partnership. This co-op campaign is also 2.5 times longer than the original Portal, making Portal 2 around 5 times longer than its predecessor.

Humor and logic fill the screen as Chell, or Atlas and P-Body run the gauntlet under the thumb of GLaDOS. Of course, there's a lot more to the game that I'm not telling. It is truly a sequel that surpasses the original in scope, plot, action, humor, and challenge. A must-play game. I love games that make you think. I've played through quite a few times already, and I'm still finding it challenging. That marks a good game.

Just like before, this game has many hidden secrets (Easter eggs if you will -apropos, I think) I will not discuss them, but just try something out of the ordinary and you may get a trophy/ achievement for it. If you get a feeling something is odd, out of place, or a coincidence; you're probably right and should grab it immediately. You never know what will happen. I know I'm going to be playing this game for a long time. This game is Random Ninja approved! Go out an buy if if you haven't already. It's fun for all ages; it's just good old fashioned fun.

Also, if you bought yours for the PS3, you can also play it on your Mac or PC over Steam for free, without needing the disc. The better deal in my opinion. Look for me over PSN as B-NiE, maybe we can play together.

Pre-Order Bonuses

2011-03-24T10:27:00.000-07:00

Within the past few years, a trend has cropped up in gaming. That being offering bonus SWAG (Souvenirs, Wearables, and Gifts) when you pre-order a video game or related media from either a game retailer or online. Many being something that you will eventually be able to purchase separately if you really must have it. There are a few however, that you can only get this way.

There are different types of pre-order bonuses with games. Sometimes the pre-order is a new quest or adventure for your hero. The most common is an in-game item or costume that is only available with said pre-order. In truth, after a period of time, some of these become available to purchase over the respective networks of the consoles. However, my favorite type is the SWAG. These are physical items that you get when pre-ordering your game - usually t-shirts with an image from the game or the company's logo; but they can range from stickers, posters and bandannas, to concept art books and soundtracks - giving you something to show off at conventions or gatherings of your fellow gamers.

But why are pre-order bonuses so prevalent? Some speculate that it is an incentive to entice more people to buy the game. But is this so? Do more people buy games when there is SWAG involved?

For the most part I would agree - especially with the American consumer. Free anything is always desired no matter what it is. However, does the SWAG go one step further and draw in an entirely different audience who may not have been interested in that game? Non-gaming culture seems to think of all gamers alike - that we all like all types of games. This is not so. There are many casual gamers who only play the big names once in a blue moon because they saw a cool trailer or add in a magazine; there are hardcore gamers who's lives revolve around video game release dates; and there are many levels in between. I myself would fall in the middle but lean toward the hardcore category. I love games, but there are only a few genres that I actually like. The same can be said for many gamers out there.

There are dozens if not hundreds of different types of games, and not every gamer may be interested in them all. Games range from easy children's games to sadistically difficult adult games. There are puzzle games, strategy games, shooter games, sports games, and a wide array of adventure type games - just to name a few. For me, I enjoy games that require you to think - puzzle, strategy, etc. I also enjoy the mindless shooter every now-and-then, as well as adventure games. On the other hand, I'm less likely to find myself playing a fighting game, or a racing game. They just don't appeal to me, likewise with sport games. And I'm sure the avid sport game player won't be seen playing the cerebral mind games. I'm not saying people who play sport games aren't intelligent, I'm simply saying that it may not be their cup of tea.

My point being that it is unlikely that simply adding a pre-order bonus to a game will draw in a new audience. For an example, the new Mortal Kombat game has an in-game pre-order bonus where you can have Scorpion's "Old School" costume from the original game. While that sounds cool, it does not entice me to buy the game. As I said, I don't normally play fighting games; and the pre-order bonus is not enough to get me to start. On the other hand, would a SWAG bonus prompt me to pre-order a game I was already going to buy? For me, that's a difficult question. I prefer to pre-order games to begin with because it guarantees me a copy come release day. This decision is not affected by the fact a game may have a SWAG or in-game bonus. However, when I find out a game has such, I will get it. But what really entices me is whether a game has a limited edition version. Normally those come with SWAG and goodies as well. Combine that with a pre-order bonus and I am in heaven.

So, the final verdict: Do pre-order bonuses increase sales of games? Yes, people are more likely to pre-order games if there is an incentive, and the prospect of getting something free that other people wont have is very appealing to consumers. Do pre-orders expand the game's audience? Possibly, for me not necessarily, but for others it may. Sometimes it's good to try out new games and see if you like them, but that's what Blockbuster and GameFly are for. Don't go wasting nearly $70 of your money for a game you don't know if you'll even like. Of course you can always trade them in at GameStop. Allons-y, and happy gaming, all.

Random Ninja Attack, March 2011, Eric Hesselberg

News and Updates

2011-03-23T13:52:00.000-07:00

As previously stated, Beanie has disappeared and no one knows where to find him. The staff are currently in discussion of where he will wind up and how he will return. A few ideas have been brought to the table which have promise. As of now he is just gone. The finale is still in the works and hopefully will be release in the next couple months. Bad Anime Night is coming along slowly due to the editors obligation with his local theatre troupe. We have been informed by our video editor, therandomninja5, that his back log of videos to produce have taken up nearly 1000 gigs of memory space (That's 1 terabyte) Many have been in the works for more than 2 years, and he would like to get back to them at some point. There is no word yet if there will be a season 2 of Power On. The consensus is that Power On will not be a review show (RNA still will be) But it will be fantasy adventure like season one became after episode 3.

Something special is planned for the finale, and it will be well worth the wait.

Upcoming Non-Power On related releases may include vlogs about new video games (including Portal 2) vlogs/documentary of "Fast Food" which is a stageplay directed by Beanie's Dad Bonne Papa (Bean Daddy) and "A Work In Progress" an exploratory artistic profile of Power On creator Eric Hesselberg as he attempts to make a new work of art. Among the back logged videos include a WW2 docudrama, a vlog on Eric and Ash's Cortez trip last summer, a vlog on a theatre competition, and travel journal type vlogs from 6 years ago when Eric and family went to Brasil.

Make sure to also check out Kyles Muzak Corner and Carl Vs The Armadillo.

Beanie will return...we just don't know when

Where's Beanie?

2011-03-02T11:38:00.001-08:00

Visitors to RNA and Kyle's Muzak Corner may have noticed that at the end of the Christmas Holiday, Beanie disappeared and has not reappeared yet. They may be wondering where he is and what he has been up to. Well, I'm here to tell you that as of now, there is no information on his whereabouts. The Ninja, Francis and Kyle have been searching for him with no results. Even Carl and Wilhelm have been brought in to pool their collective intelligence to the case.

From the editor: On a more serious tone... Beanie's disappearance was to be a set up for a new plot thread, which as of yet has not come to fruition. The creative team at RNA has been locked in several matters concerning scheduling conflicts, budgetary disputes, and equipment issues. Beanie will eventually return, but for now, please enjoy the continuing episodes of Muzak Corner, the new RN Follies videos, and reruns of Power On.

From the other editor: News in a Nutshell will be taking a short hiatus while it is undergoing cosmetic adjustments. It's low ratings has greatly bummed the producers here at RNA. The Puppet Time Players videos will appear once a month instead of weekly like Nutshell was attempting. Currently the Power On Finale (which was supposed to appear in October) is still being edited and has no official release date. A new video segment titled Bad Anime Night is also in the works and is past its initial release date as well. These set backs are largely due to the aforementioned issues RNA is dealing with and the fact that the RNA team is short handed. Please bear with us as we work to get the videos out as soon as possible.

From the Ninja: Several ideas for story arcs and plots have come across my desk lately. All have potential, yet we cannot do all of them this season. Our writers are feverishly working to see if some can be combined, and where the adventures of Beanie and Francis will go from here. Of course they would all make more sense if the Power On Finale was complete and online for all to see. We thank you for your patience and your support.

First Thoughts - Dragon Age: Origins 2

2011-02-25T11:56:00.000-08:00

Dragon Age: Origins is one of my favorite Next Gen titles. It's an action RPG where you create your character and quest to save the kingdom from the horde of Darkspawn commanded by the Archdemon. Along the way you gain companions, help cities and towns with their own problems, while ever-gaining support for your own cause. Like other RPG titles made by BioWare, you have multiple choices within your quests and subquests, making the overall story open to chance. Apart from your quest to kill the archdemon, it may not turn out the same each time you play. With various rewards (ie. trophies or achievements, and in-game rewards) it encourages multiple play-throughs - each time with a different character or motivation. I greatly enjoyed it, and have yet to unlock all of its mysteries.
Last year it was announced that a sequel was to be released. My eyes widened at the prospects. However, at first I was turned off, because it seemed like you weren't able to make your own character. From the promos it seemed that you would play a "generic" character with their own story. So my hopes had dwindled. Until...
This past week, the demo was released for download on X-Box live and the PlayStation Network. I immediately jumped on the chance to download it and see for myself what was in store for me.
Right from the get-go, I knew two things: the art style was similar but different, and the music style was the same as before. So far, I was excited. Starting a new game, I was given six character choices. I could choose to play a male or female character, and whether they were a warrior, mage, or rogue. There was no choice for race. Already I'm liking this game less that the first.
The demo's opening cutscene began. The graphics have definitely improved from the previous game - still in the same style. The voice work, like before is promising. A dwarf is being questioned about someone called "The Champion." He is being forced to tell the tale. Immediately you are thrust into battle with darkspawn alongside your sister. The darkspawn look nothing like the ones from the previous game. They appear to be related to Skeletor from He-Man. Wave after wave of Darkspawn attack, finally a giant Ogre appears. Once he is defeated, you and your very attractive sister are surrounded when a dragon appears and swoops down.
The scene is interrupted by the interrogator spouting that the story is BS. Finally she gets the dwarf to tell the truth.
The real game begins, and you are given the opportunity to customize the character you've selected. However, in the Demo, you can't. The story takes place as the dwarf tells it, and is during the events of the previous game. You and your family are on the run from darkspawn.
Here you get a sense of the new controls. The focus is more on action this time around. Instead of selecting your move and it plays out, you have physical control of the attacks in real time. The "X" button is for attack, and you do with every press of the button. The other buttons, as before, are used for your special attacks and item use. Only items and attacks that require you to aim pauses the action. The menu screen is also different. This time it is a radial menu instead of a page/list format. When leveling up, you can select the skill tree to use. They are displayed almost like a DNA strands.
Everything seems geared to make combat easier and more fast-paced. Oh, one thing I forgot. Dialogue uses the analog stick to choose your choice in a radial menu, and the player character is fully voiced. That...is...awesome! Finally a fully voiced player character in an RPG! This includes dialogue as well as the cutscenes.
Unfortuanately, I cannot say more. While I was playing the power went out. I have yet to try again. But I can't wait to play the full game when its released.

Puppet Time Players - Episode 1 "Bunny Upon A Park Bench"

2011-02-22T21:55:00.000-08:00

A new segment featuring the writing and direction of Eric Hesselberg in the style he's known best for - a little humorous, a little dramatic, a little cute, and slightly off.
This section involves fully-scripted teleplays where the parts are played by puppets and stuffed animals.

Channel RN Follies - The News in a Nutshell - Episode 3 "Politics and Grammy's"

2011-02-21T22:33:00.000-08:00

Chip is away this week so Political Expert Frankfurt Scott steps in to report the news. There is also another commentary by Kyle Sullivan of Muzak Corner.

Special Thanks for this week's episode goes to Kyle for filming and editing this broadcast with short notice.

Remember to submit your questions to the Samurai in the comment section below.

Channel RN Follies - The News in a Nutshell - Episode 2 "Super Bowl XLV and Valentine's Day"

2011-02-14T00:40:00.000-08:00

Chip is joined by Kyle Sullivan of Muzak Corner and a new correspondent to discuss the weather, Super Bowl XLV, and Valentine's Day.

In Response to Punxsutawny Phil

2011-02-10T14:52:00.000-08:00

Channel Rn Follies - The News in a Nutshell - Episode 1 "Groundhog Day and Superbowl Predictions"

2011-02-06T13:45:00.000-08:00

Chip Cest'hoí and Soh Ahndso give you the news as it happens. In this, the first broadcast, they discuss Groundhogs, the weather, and Superbowl XLV predictions. It is a dry humor lampoon/ spoof style news show inspired by the original SNL weekend update with Chevy Chase.

Possible T-Shirt Design

2011-01-25T15:41:00.000-08:00

This is a possible T-shirt design for Random Ninja Attack. It is a Random Ninja Mushroom based on the original Power Up mushroom from Super Mario. The RNA type is based on a pixelated font. The entire image and font were crated in Adobe Illustrator. Wouldn't you like a shirt with this image on the front? I would.

The Pirate King

2011-01-06T23:46:00.000-08:00

A spur of the moment joke filmed during the production of another video of mine. (yet to be uploaded. I just thought I would share with you all this little gem. Inspired by the Holiday Inn Express commercials where someone is doing something amazing or sharing their vast knowledge only for the others to discover that they have only stayed at a Holiday Inn. This is a short homage to those, filmed at Fort Gains on Dauphin Island, Alabama. At a Colonial Living History, this group dressed as Pirates in their finest for going ashore. The music is from Disney's Pirates of the Caribbean. And was filmed all in good fun.

What the egg?

2011-01-03T20:08:00.000-08:00

One thing I've noticed, is that my videos and such haven't been getting many views; or at least gaining views slowly. So I'm going to try an experiment. I'm going to make a few very random, seemingly pointless videos that are flashy and make no sense to see if they get the views flowing, because it seems that those types of videos get the views on youtube, so I'm going to try it as well. It will be a comment on the youtube audience and how they only like that type of stuff. Seriously, I've got videos that have been up for like 2 years and haven't had double digit views. Yet someone can upload a random video that makes no sense and get over a million views. We shall see. Hopefully, it will make people more aware of my existence and my audience base will grow.

Top 5 Games and Movies of 2010

2010-12-31T16:27:00.000-08:00

Being that the year is coming to a close, I thought I'd take a look back at the video games and movies that I enjoyed over the past year. When it came time to filming, I actually found myself quite sick. So instead of actually recording dialogue, I used the narrator program on my computer to speak for me. Much like the Nostalgia Critic's review of Alone In The Dark. It's not that I can't speak, but the way my voice is, my audio equipment wouldn't have picked it up. But the show must go on, so here's my top 5 games and movies of 2010. Enjoy.

For those of you who want to know what was being said in the Japanese commercial, here's a sum up (note - I don't actually know Japanese fluently, but I do know a few words - fortunately this commercial featured them.)
The suave boy asks the girl to come with him. When there alone he says he wants to ask her something; she says "what?" just then the little boy springs from the cardboard box. And says "I want you to join me" (or something to that effect)
The girl asks "me?"
But the little boy motions to the suave boy.
Suave boy, "me?"
Little boy nods. Then we see them both inside the cardboard box playing MGS:PW This commercial illustrates that the game is co-op by showing the two of them in the box, which is an aspect of the game itself, while still being hilarious like many Japanese commercials.

Like so many other critics and opinionated persons, Beanie has decided to put in his 2 cents and share his favorite movies and video games of 2010. When going to film, Beanie got ill, but was able to use a voice-over program to speak for him. So here's Beanie's Top 5.
Like the list? Disagree with it? Post a comment.

Alpha's Magical Christmas

2010-12-26T00:09:00.001-08:00

It's Christmas Day and Beanie wants to review a Christmas Special from his childhood. Bundle up and sip your cocoa as he presents his very first full review episode. Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night.

(edit) Despite what the date says, this was posted Dec 25th. BlipTV was being touchy and not wanting to work. And the run time is just under 30 minutes, not 3 hours. I don't know what BlipTV's problem is.

You can also view this episode on my youtube channel in 3 parts.
http://www.youtube.com/therandomninja5

Tron: Legacy

2010-12-19T18:33:00.001-08:00

I feel a great sense of both pride and alienation because of where I fall in my generation. Growing up I was exposed to awesome old movies like TRON, Flash Gordon, Conan, and the like. I remember them all with a feeling of nostalgia. Compared to my peers I feel that my childhood was awesome. My dad was a Trekker and a member of the KISS Army. Because of him I was exposed to awesome Science Fiction not just from the 80s but from the start. One of my favorite TV shows is the original Star Trek series and my two favorite movies are Flash Gordon and Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan. This is just a roundabout way of saying I'm a geek and damn proud of it.
As for the alienation, it seems that there aren't many others in my age group with this same upbringing of Star Trek, D&D, comic books and video games. Most of my peers I've been around have no knowledge of the awesome 80s movies, and music I grew up with. (Which is why I make it my sworn duty to educate people) I feel like I'm in a generation gap some times. I hang around with people older than me, because I feel more akin to them, when I talk to people my age or younger and find out they have no idea what I'm talking about I have to face palm... but enough about me.

While the original Tron came out before I was born, I was exposed to it because of my dad. We had it on VHS tape, and I would watch it along with Star Trek, Flash Gordon, Heavy Metal, and Robo Jox. I loved Science Fiction, and when I heard they were making a sequel to Tron, I freaked. Finally!

My dad and sister joined me at the theater where we saw the movie in 3d. But first we sat through 30 solid minutes of trailers. I know people joke about trailers , but it was seriously 30 minutes. There was a group of 3+ minute long trailers then there was the "please put on your 3d glasses" screen, followed by another group of 3+ minute long trailers. And finally, the movie began with possibly the best opening logo for Disney ever.

The movie itself, while have a paper thin and (frankly) predictable story, had awesome effects, superb acting, and a pumping soundtrack fitting for the mood. Everything had an 80s feel, from the source music in certain scenes, and the hammy (yet not over the top) acting. In one scene, Sam Flynn (Kevin Flynn's son) turns on the power in the arcade from the first movie. As the lights blink on, the dozens of games come to life echoing with the familiar jingles and sounds. But that's not where my geekout began. In the opening scene we see the original Tron poster on Sam's wall. Boom. Right from the get-go I was exploding with nostalgia.
And of course this movie is full of nostalgic moments for sci-fi fans. Disc battles, lightcycle battles, familiar sights, sounds, and... Bruce Boxlietner. Oh, yes Bruce Boxlietner reprises his role as Tron from the original. Oh...hell...yes! The look and feel of the movie (to me) had a sleek cyber punk look. Cyber punk being my favorite subgenre of Sci-Fi, I loved that. The costumes were great, the atmosphere was awe-inspiring, and the action was fun to watch.

Now before I seem like there was nothing at all to complain about, let me talk about what I saw as negatives.

There's barely any Bruce Boxleitner. He reprises his role as Tron, but only in brief flash back scenes. The computer generated face on younger Jeff Bridges(Kevin Flynn) is starkly noticeable. The plot is predictable; in my first screening I was literally able to speak the next lines of dialogue before the on screen actors did. Characters are set up, but then never seen nor heard from again. near the beginning we are introduced to the Encom board of directors who have ruined (gone in a completely selfish direction with) Flynn's company; among them is a smug programmer who really seems to be made out to be a great antagonist for Sam.... never seen again. And the plot revolves around the possibility that the villain, a digital copy of Kevin Flynn is bent on crossing into the real world and taking over. This (to me) raises the obvious question of how a digital being can exist in the real world (you know, without a projector or connection to the internet) We're just to assume it's possible with flynn's data disc. No explanation is given. There is a pretty thick analog for Kevin Flynn being God; he's called "the creator" and Sam (his son) arriving to save the world from CLU (the evil version of Flynn) some of this I don't mind, because technically Flynn did create (or at least laid the building blocks of) the Grid.

But I loved Tron: Legacy. I highly recommend seeing it. It is a fun ride from beginning to end (there's not much suspense, as I said it's predictable) The graphics are amazing, the acting is supurb, and it pays tribute to the original in so many ways. Finally a belated sequel worth seeing. Plus Jeff Bridges and Bruce Boxlietner!

Beanie Tries... Oreo Candy Cane

2010-12-17T21:46:00.000-08:00

In the festive spirit, Beanie tries a candy cane flavored Oreo cookie. Will he like it?

Note* Beanie is lactose intolerant. He drinks Silk.

Holiday Traditions

2010-12-15T20:01:00.000-08:00

People all over the world have different holiday traditions. Whether it be decorating a Christmas tree or lighting a Menorah. Giving each other gifts is a constant norm around this time of year. For me, it's a bit more unconventional. Every year around the Christmas holidays when my sister is out of school, we watch each season of Viva La Bam on dvd. It started a few years ago when she would get the dvd sets as presents on Christmas day. We would watch them all day, and as she got the seasons, we would start over from the beginning. And now its moved to our yearly marathon to when school lets out, rather than waiting for Christmas day. While I was in college, we waited until both of us were done, but now I've graduated; yet the tradition lives on, and I can't see it fading away anytime soon.

What are your holiday traditions? Please comment. Share your stories, your friend's stories.

Diebuster: Let's Go Topless | Otaku USA Anime Coverage

2010-12-14T20:10:00.000-08:00

Diebuster: Let's Go Topless | Otaku USA Anime Coverage

Day of the Ninja

2010-12-05T15:47:00.000-08:00

The wind howls violently, and the air is filled with thousands of cherry blossom leaves, slowly drifting downward. Nestled in the Utagawa Mountains, a fortified temple stands watch over the world. Standing sentry atop the long stairway, a man in black robes peers to the distance. Another man approaches from behind and kneels.
"Master, I received your summons and arrived as soon as I could."
"You have done well, these past years at my side, 5." spoke the old man, "Such loyalty, and strength."
"I live to serve, master."
"And now it is time for your service to take you far away from this temple."
"Master?"
"I will be leaving this place soon, and I do not want you to spend your life wasting away within these walls."
"But master, you can't mean..."
"It is quite alright, 5." smiled the old master, now helping 5 to his feet, "I have lived a most fulfilling life. I have no remorse, no regrets."
Tears began to well in 5's eyes.
"Now, now, all is well, my child. I will always be with you."
The old master inhaled deeply and slowly began to walk away.
"But master, where will I go? What am I to do?"
"Follow your heart, my son, and all answers will be revealed." As if carried by the cherry blossoms, the old master disappeared into the night sky, leaving his humble student alone atop the steps.
For some time, 5 remained at the temple, wandering its vacant corridors. Staring at the zen garden where Master taught him his first lesson, his mind dwelt on his master's last request.
Eventually, 5 left the temple. Looking back one last time, he remembered all the years he'd spent there. It was his home, and Master was like a father to him. And now, what was there. Just emptiness.
Walking down the long stairway, he put the past behind him. He would probably never see it again. Finally reaching the bottom, he found himself in a city. People walked past without taking notice. Everyone was in a bustle, trying to buy and sell all manner of products. Many of them of low quality.
"Is there a way for someone to tell them of their futility?" 5 thought to himself.
"Man, don't buy that!" shouted a strange man in a tight skullcap, "It sucks, you should try this instead."
5 took notice of this man. Once he'd finished his verbal assault of the random pedestrian, 5 approached the man.
"Greetings," said 5, struggling to find a name for the man, "Beanie."
"Beanie?" replied the man, "heh, I like that. What can I help you with, Random Ninja?"
5 smiled at this moniker, "How would you like to help me? I think these people really need to hear what's good and bad about the things they buy."
"They need someone to tell them what they need to know. I know just how to do it."
"How?"
"The internet!"
Together, Random Ninja and Beanie started a blog site and produced videos telling their viewers the good, the bad, and the ugly about popular media.
That day would come to be known as the Day of the Ninja.

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A NINJA

December 5th is the National Day of the Ninja. So here's a video depicting the everyday life of a ninja.

note. Blip.tv is being touchy again and I was forced to upload a lesser res version. for a better one check out my youtube channel www.youtube.com/therandomninja5

1000 Views on YouTube!

2010-12-04T21:04:00.000-08:00

I was checking out my youtube channel www.youtube.com/therandomninja5 when I discovered that one of my videos had reached over 1000 views! I view this as a personal triumph. 1000 people have seen my work. True its only one video and the rest are no where near that, but it's still an accomplishment. It was one of my earliest videos; an Anime Music Video where I used footage from Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex and combined it with both "One Note Song" by Tenacious D and a cover of "Die, Die, Die, My Darling" by Aiden. Enjoy.

Here's a link to another AMV also featuring GITS:SAC and Tenacious D; this time with their audio track "Drive-Thru"

And finally my magnum opus of AMVs (as of two years ago anyway) again with GITS:SAC but this time I use many audio clips. My theme for this one, was that the Laughing Man, an antagonist character from the show, has taken control of your screen and is replacing the audio with other sources. I hope you enjoy.

Thanks for all the views and the support.

Tuesdays With Morrie

2010-12-03T21:10:00.000-08:00

The curtain opens slowly to a darkened stage in a quiet theatre. Softly a spotlight pierces the black and introduces a figure sitting at a keyboard.
"The last class of my old professor's life met once a week, in his house, by a window in the study where he could watch a small hibiscus plat shed its leaves." said the man at the piano, "The subject of the class was The Meaning of Life. It was taught from experience. There was no required reading, but many topics were covered: love, work, aging, family, community, forgiveness... and death. The class met on Tuesdays and had only one student. I was that student. This is Professor Morrie Schwartz."
More lights came on, revealing an aged man dancing to the music being played by the other. Morrie Schwartz danced his way down the stage, and into the hearts of the captivated audience.
Tuesdays With Morrie is a one-act stage-play based on the bestselling book of the same title, and tells the real life story of Mitch Albom, a sports journalist, and his reconnection with his estranged college professor, Morrie Schwartz. In the play we begin both by the two's meeting on graduation day at Brandeis College and their first meeting. The two reminisce about their first meeting, and how they spent the years becoming close. As, Mitch is leaving school, he promises to stay in touch with Morrie; however, he breaks that promise, and it's a further sixteen years before they see each other again.
In that time, Mitch has changed a lot. Not doing anything with his sociology degree, he attempts to become a jazz pianist. This falls short as Mitch is emotionally struck by the death of his uncle. This gives him the revelation that he needs to do something with his life, and he returns to college. He graduates with a degree in journalism, eventually becoming the famous sportswriter he is today with books, radio shows, TV spots, and his newspaper columns.
One day, Mitch is watching TV when he catches an interview of Morrie Schwartz on Nightline with Ted Koppel. He learns that his old professor has contracted Amyotropic Lateral Sclrosis (ALS) commonly known as Lou Gehrig's disease. Mitch decides to call up his old professor. They meet one day and have an awkward sit down at Morrie's home. One meeting becomes two, and eventually, Mitch is coming to visit Morrie every week on Tuesday.
He starts bringing tape recorders and notepads. Mitch learns a lot about life and death from Morrie in their time together. As the meetings proceed, Morrie's health slowly wanes. At their first meeting, he needs to use a walker; at the second, he's in a wheelchair; then he's resigned to a comfortable chair; and eventually, at their final meeting, Morrie is bedridden.
During their time together, we see how their relationship goes from estrangement to love, and all the ups and downs in between. We learn of Morrie's take on life; "There is no point in loving. Loving IS the point." Along the way, we learn of how both Morrie and Mitch wish they had the courage to say goodbye to long lost loved ones before it was too late; Mitch with his uncle, and Morrie with his mother.
"If you wait til the last minute for the famous last words," said Morrie, "you'd better have great timing."
I was brought to tears in this scene, not only from the emotional revelation of the characters, but by the emotions it stirred in me. We've all been in this situation. For me, it reminds me most of my Grandmother, who passed recently. She had been sick a long time. She also had alsheimer's. The last time I said goodbye to her, I'm not certain she knew who I was. I didn't visit her when she was in the hospital after she got bad. In my mind I was torn. I loved my grandmother, but part of me kept convincing my mind that she wouldn't recognize me anyway, so why go? Finally I was determined to go visit her the next time my mother went. Only then, it was too late. She had passed away that same night. I missed my chance. I was never going to get to say goodbye to her properly.
And here it is, half a year later, and these feelings are being drawn out by the words of these two men; however, the play was not over just yet.
Along with the deep philosophical conversations, there is an abundance of humor. Little moments sprinkled all throughout the show, really made me laugh out loud. Morrie attempts to pour himself a glass of water, when he spills the pitcher all over the floor. Having lost almost all motor function, he can't pick himself up. At the same time, Mitch enters in a tiff about the weather. He storms past not noticing his old friend hunched over the seat, unable to move. After a long rant about how hot it was outside, Mitch finally sees Morrie in distress.
"JESUS, Morrie!" he shouts as he helps the old man back into the seat, "What happened?"
Morrie looks at Mitch and says, "I was playing hockey."
Later on, Morrie asks Mitch if he wants to watch the World Series on TV. Mitch questions Morrie's knowledge of the event.
"Everyone knows the World Series," proclaims Morrie.
"Yeah?" asks Mitch "Who's playing?"
There is a pause, where Morrie searches for the answer, but finally says, "Two baseball teams."
There is a well designed mixture of drama and comedy in the production. In a scene where Mitch's wife, Janine, accompanies Mitch on his visit, Morrie lets slip that he was once in Detroit, the same city that Mitch and his wife live; however, previously, Morrie stated that he'd never been there. Mitch questions this, but Morrie ignores him, and we are treated with the angelic voice of Janine as she sings to Morrie.
"His body was stiff as a sandbag," says Mitch, "but he was dancing."
Shortly after, Morrie health gets bad. He is bedridden, and Mitch arrives for his final visit. It is here that Mitch learns the truth about Morrie's trip to Detroit. Years ago, when Mitch's writing career first took off, Morrie had gone to Detroit in hopes of seeing him. He wrote a letter expressing that wish; however, Mitch, once his new life started, had thrown it away without a second glance along with any other invoice from Brandeis College. This revelation hits Mitch hard. Had he known about the letter, the past sixteen years may have turned out much differently. He would have still been in touch with Morrie the whole time, he wouldn't just now be reconnecting with him.
"Forgive everyone, everything," says Morrie, tears beginning to well, "I forgave you. Now you forgive yourself."
Mitch asks, "Why'd you let me come back?"
Morrie answers with an old Yiddish saying, "Farhaltnisht deine licht unter a shorten. Don't hide your light under a bushel."
He is talking about the light within yourself.
Morrie has one last request of Mitch. Once he's gone, he wants Mitch to visit his grave, every Tuesday and bring a lunch, just as he did for all of their meetings. He wants Mitch to talk to him about his problems and his life.
"You won't be able to talk back," says Mitch.
And Morrie replies, "You talk, I'll listen."
With that, the two say goodbye in the only way they know how, by saying, "I love you."
Morrie died shortly thereafter, and Mitch reflected to the audience.
"I finally figured out what Morrie knew that I didn't. If you lead your life as Morrie did, with people as the priority, making memories, giving of yourself, then when you die, you're not really gone. You live inside the hearts of everyone you've ever touched. So when they visit a cemetery or they're walking alone or when they're playing the piano you taught them to play. They can hear everything you've ever given them. The next time I visited the cemetery, I brought a blanket and some food and laid out a picnic. Morrie was right. It was a lovely spot. 'You talk, I'll listen.' I tried doing that and, to my surprise, the conversation felt almost natural. I realized why. It was Tuesday."
Mitch sat down and began playing the piano. As softly as it appeared, the light faded away and the stage returned to black. Lingering in the air were thoughts of Morrie and the beautiful song that we know he was dancing to.
Much weight is carried on the two performers and the crew supporting them. Quite a wide span of time is covered in this piece, and many emotional journeys are taken. To aid this, the lights and sounds, along with the various set pieces, are meticulously honed to draw out the audience's response. The highly skilled technical crew are able to change the set pieces without the aid of a closing curtain. Everything is done through the use of light and shadow. As the light is on one of the actors, set pieces are being moved in total darkness, creating a seamless effect which holds the story together.
This story is quite moving, touching not only the heartstrings but the funny bone. It makes you laugh, makes you cry, and you learn something about yourself. The message in this play is appropriate for everyone. How you deal with death is just as important as how you deal with life. The two walk hand-in-hand.You go in to see a performance, and you leave a better person.

Mighty Morphin Random Ninja

2010-12-01T14:06:00.000-08:00

A disturbance has been detected by the command center sensors. Alpha 5 and Zordon need to find a new champion to help the planet.

Big Plans

2010-11-29T22:44:00.000-08:00

Hello to all who visit this blog. I am happy that people are interested in my opinions and such. As you all know by now, the Power On series is coming to a close. The final episode will be up as soon as I can finish it, so you'll just have to wait a bit longer to see what will become of our heroes. I have also been working on how the site will continue afterward. As you can tell by some of the recent video posts, I am planning to continue the video series; however, it will not be Power On as you know it. In fact I'm not sure it will have a definite title as such. But it will be the video portion of the blog where I (along with Francis at times and maybe some special guests occasionally) will review/ give our opinions on games, tv, movies, etc. A sort of "Back To Form" as it were.
But you can rest assured that it will not be dull or drab. In fact, I am currently writing scripts that will give a new format to the show. I will keep this new format in the dark for another week or so, but it will be awesomesauce. It will be something that people of my generation will find nostalgic and funny, and I hope that younger viewers will enjoy it just as much. I'm working hard on the particulars, and dealing with serious technical difficulties that overshadow the ones that have prevented episodes in the past. Sometimes it seems that my computer is giving up the ghost, but I manage to revive it. It will probably have to go into the shop for repairs and if that's the case, there will be a brief time where there is no Attack.
But once the computer is repaired (hopefully) I will finally catch up to all the videos I've been meaning to do this whole year. Wish me luck, loyal internet audience.
Nothing can stop a Random Ninja Attack.

Random Ninja Attack Opening

2010-11-20T13:06:00.000-08:00

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows part 1

2010-11-19T15:33:00.001-08:00

Last night I attended the midnight premier of the latest Harry Potter movie. My fiance being a huge fan of the series actually bought our tickets over a month in advance. we even arrived nearly four hours early. Around three hours before show time, they began letting patrons into the theater. There were many people dressed for the occasion. I saw people in shirts and sweaters displaying the colors of Gryffindor house, I myself wore a Slytherin t-shirt and my fiance wore a Hogwarts hoodie over a shirt proudly displaying the word "Muggle"There were even people in full regalia of wizard robes. One young girl was wearing what appeared to be the robes of Ravenclaw, though truthfully It was quite dark and I could not tell. As the fans shuffled in there was a mixture of false British accents and overjoyed shouts all around.
Close to an hour before showtime the patrons were treated to a different kind of performance when a fan stood and shouted, "Mudbloods aren't welcome here," so that the entire theater could here him. Another young man on the opposite side of the row stood and challenged him. In sight of the entire congregation, the two would-be wizards squared off at the foot of the screen. Neither in wizard robes, but both with wands. The Pure-blood on one side and the Muggle-born on the other.
With a flick of his wand the pure-blood shouted "Stupify!" and the Muggle-born flew backward into a pile of empty boxes. Though slightly disoriented, the Muggle-born stood and retaliated with his own spell, "Sectumsempre!" But the pure-blood reacted quickly.
"Protego!" and the spell was deflected into the screen. Almost simultaneously the duelists fired their next spells.
"Petrificus Totalis and Avarda Kedavra" were shouted in such close proximity that no one could tell who shouted what. There was a flash of green and the Pure-blood sank into the floor staring up to the ceiling with lifeless eyes. When the smoke cleared there was a thunderous roar of applause from the theater as the Muggle-born was hailed as a champion.
Finally it was midnight. The lights dimmed and the screen came to life; the familiar Warner Brothers logo appeared in the clouds and there was a shriek of joy from every corner of the theater. At long last after nearly a decade, the end of the saga had begun.
The movie, being split into two parts had more time to draw out scenes. Unlike the others which seemed to be rushed, this one could take a more steady pace. Which I feel really helped the foreboding feeling it was trying to make. There was more scope in the cinematography, showing depth in the world as Harry and his friends journey. Having the movie at a slower pace is not detrimental in the slightest. It gives the viewer a chance to see the world as it changes around the characters, as well as give ample time for character development and little moments, that fans of the books will enjoy just as much as the average movie-goer. Everything builds up to the climactic conclusion in part 2. Not to say that part 1 is without climax, there are several climactic moments which leave the audience on the edge of their seat and leave them wanting more.
While there are moments from the book not present in the movie, it leaves room for original ideas, which, while mentioned in the book, never actually are seen (read.) What is left in, only works for the better, character-wise and story-wise.
If anything this movie has a theme of Loss. Harry and his friends are still feeling the effects of the events from Half-Blood Prince. They are cut-off from everything they have come to know and love in the last six years at Hogwarts. They are on the run without a clue as to what they are supposed to be doing in carrying out Dumbleore's wishes. Once again, their friendship and resolve will be tested. Do they have what it takes to save the world? Are they on the right path? These are but a few of the questions swimming in their weary minds.
In the end, we have a look at what's to come. What will be in store for our heroes in part 2 with what has happened to them so far in part 1. You definitely get the sense of foreboding and loss while watching part 1.
The visuals as, always are beautiful and stunning, the characters are spot on, and the dialogue is straight out of the book. So far, this is possibly the closest book to movie transition ever made, and part 2 is still months away. J K Rowling's world has truly come to life and with nearly a decade of work, Hollywood has finally gotten something right. I thoroughly recommend seeing this movie, not only if you are a fan of the books or movies, but if you love movies, and love the pure escapism. You will be hard-pressed to find a more immersed movie-going experience.

Undead Redemption

2010-11-02T15:05:00.000-07:00

Being that today is the Day of the Dead, I thought I would play a game fitting the season. But what to play? I want to play a Zombie survival game that is free roaming with an expansive area to wonder and run from the undead. Something like that awesome free roam western game, Red Dead Redemption...Hmm...What's this?

Oh My God, Yes!
My prayers have been answered. Rockstar Games has heard my plea and has given me a glorious thing. Red Dead Redemption: Undead Nightmare is a short horror game available for download on the Playstation Network and Xbox Live Arcade. Set within the storyoriginal game, this DLC's story takes place shortly after John Marston returns home from his adventure in the regular game. A terrible storm is brewing, and all across the land, the dead are rising from the grave to feast on the flesh of the living. Marston rides out to find an answer to "why?" Along the way, he runs into familiar faces from RDD as he battles with the unholy demon hordes of undead.

The controls handle exactly the same way as in the regular game, however, there is a less abundance of weapons and ammunition. Hundreds of zombies roam the land, and only a few dozen survivors can be found holed up in the once thriving towns. Not only are the recently deceased humans on the rampage, but the skies are filled with cursed bats, and the wilderness is home to undead animals seeking to devour anyone who still lives. You can even ride on undead horses.

The ambiance is amazing, and really fit the intended mood. A dark haze blankets the land, and the sun is rarely seen, with frequent rains and overcast days. And you never know when you'll run into a legion of undead. You need to stay on your toes at all times. Just because you can't see them, doesn't mean they're not there. Many times I found myself standing over the last zombie's body, when all of a sudden there's another fifty or so, springing up out of the ground!

Marston must roam the country, saving towns and helping the survivors. There is plenty to keep the player occupied, from fending off the zombie hordes to hunting down the elusive sasquatch, searching for buried treasure, and even breaking in the four horses of the apocalypse. Each with its own special power. War has the ability to smite your trampled enemies in hellfire, Pestilence is nearly impossible to kill, Famine never tires, and Death causes your trampled enemies' heads to explode!

With new weapons and outfits to find, the zombie apocalypse is a fun ride to enjoy, but be careful, because you might become a zombie yourself!
This game had me terrified and at the same time, reveling in its awesomeness.
It's a bit glitchy, but so was RDD. A great buy, $9.99 on PSN. Totally worth it. 10+ hours of gameplay; and as always with Rockstar Games, the ability to continue to free roam after the story mode ends, and that's always a good thing. It is possibly the best zombie game out there. Now, if only it were a full length game.
9/10

The Pumpkin of Shadow

2010-10-31T20:27:00.000-07:00

For Halloween this year I decided to honor one of my new favorite games, Castlevania: Lords of Shadow. I decided to carve a pumpkin using the visage of the Devil Mask which plays a pivotal role in the plot. I didn't make the exact mask, just using the eyes and mouth. Many agreed that it turned out to be one of the creepiest jack o lanterns they'd seen. I can almost see it speaking and the cracks opening and closing as the eyes and mouth move. This was my way of paying homage to a great video game as well as keep in the spirit of the season. Lets see any unwanted spirits get past this protector.

1 year Anniversary

2010-10-31T09:56:00.000-07:00

It's been one year since the premier of my very first review episode "Power On" while it turned out not to be a review, but a spoof, it started me and my partner KB on a wild ride of internet videodom. We've been continuing to make material over the last year. Power On has become a miniseries with a plot spanning each episode and the finale is just around the corner! I've had fun making videos and spouting my opinions over the last year, and I hope to continue and grow in pobularity.

Castlevania: Lords of Shadow Limited Edition

2010-10-21T13:35:00.001-07:00

Beanie and Francis open up their Castlevania: Lords of Shadow limited edition box and see what's inside.

Happy Birthday Nintendo

2010-10-18T21:00:00.000-07:00

Sometimes there are coincidences, and then there is fate. Today in history: the Nintendo Entertainment System was launched in 1985, making it 25 years old. Also today in history: I was born in 1986. That means that Nintendo and I have the same birthday. It is as if I was destined to be a gamer.

For a quarter century, Nintendo has been entertaining millions, and there's no sign of it stopping. And with many of their premier titles still kicking out games, it seems that gaming indeed has some longevity. Congrats Nintendo, for making it 25 years, and heres a toast to another 25!

Jackass 3D

2010-10-18T08:47:00.000-07:00

Utilizing state-of-the-art 3D cameras and high speed slow-motion, Jackass is considerably the best 3D movie of all time, if no THE best movie of all time. Unlike other 3D movies which use the technology as a gimmick to have things appear to fly out at the audience "whoa, that hand looks like it's coming out at me!" Jackass does not. In Jackass, there is more play with perspective and depth of field. Making object appear either closer or further away than they actually are. That is how 3D should be treated.
Have you ever wanted to see someone getting slapped in the face with a mackerel in super slo-mo? I have. Have you ever wanted to see someone get knocked over by a giant hand? I have. While much of the movie is filled with childish stunts and immature gags, there is a deeper meaning. Spreading a message of good natured feelings, there is no hate, nor malice anywhere to be found in this movie. It is filled with a childlike innocence and brotherly love. The Jackasses are retaining that innocence of childhood, playing as we all did as children. It is the paramount of escapism that we as a society desperately need. Harmless fun.
There is no conflict, no great task to undertake, no damsel to rescue, only laughs to be shared and fun to be had. They bring us back to a simpler time, when we were children. Playing and laughing together as we pushed our friend down a hill into a questionable nasty pond or frolicked naked through a field. I did these things, and you did too. It is the embodiment of the never grow old mentality. Not in the sense that you should never mature and live your life. We've seen these guys when they're not goofing around, leading normal lives, many of them are very successful in their careers outside of Jackass. No, what I mean, is that you should retain your childhood innocence in some way, whether it be goofing around with your buddies or just doing something nostalgic and meaningful to yourself. That is what Jackass is really about, Memories of a better time. I highly recommend this movie. And don't give me that crap about imitatible acts. When I was a kid I did much of the very same stuff, and that was long before jackass was around. I will not lie, there is a lot of peni in this movie, and you should take caution if you're uncomfortable around that, but lets be honest. By this time in your life your bound to have already seen at least one.
Go see this movie!

Big News

2010-10-08T21:52:00.000-07:00

I was planning on waiting until after the series finale of Power On to debut the new format video series but I've already got two episode raring to go. So I've decided to push up the release date on the new episodes to next week. Actually the first was supposed to be up this week, but work got in the way. Be on the listen and be on the lookout for the new and improved Random Ninja Attack!

Power On - Episode 5 "What Sweeps The Mind"

2010-09-24T09:35:00.000-07:00

At last the long awaited episode 5 of the hit web series Power On.

Investigative journalist Weston Harris tracks down a lead in a case involving mysterious events and strange sightings. Where will his search lead him?

Anniversary of PlayStation

2010-09-11T00:15:00.001-07:00

PlayStation is now 15 years old! Can you believe it? For a decade and a half, Sony's PlayStation gaming console has been entertaining millions of gamers and non-gamers alike. I am proud to count myself in that number. I became a PlayStation gamer 12 years ago when I was introduced to Metal Gear Solid. Since then I have been a loyal fan of PlayStation, also owning the PlayStation2, PlayStation3, and PlayStation Portable. It has been 15 wonderful years of advancement in the art of gaming and we can only hope for it to continue. With the industry movie towards downloadable games, 3D gaming, accurate motion control, and as always, great stories that keep us entertained and escaped from our everyday lives, we can only expect the best in the years to come.

The Last Airbender

2010-07-07T21:16:00.000-07:00

I recently just saw the movie based on the popular nicktoon "Avatar: The Last Airbender." Let me be the first to say that this movie is vastly underrated by others. It is a great movie, Now it does have flaws but none of them are deal breakers in my book. Especially when you keep in mind that this movie is intended for younger audiences. There are a few things that will take people by surprise, and these were explained in an interview with director M. Night Shayamalan. One major thing that differs between the show and the movie is that in the movie the names are pronounced correctly whereas in the cartoon they are not.
I actually heard people complaining the reverse. No offense intended (well maybe a little) these people belong to the uneducated masses. These were not children either. They were adults. These are probably the same people who think that China and Japan are the same country.
The movie itself had action a little adventure, some romance, and the best special effects so far this year. The actors were perfectly cast, fully embodying the characters they personafied. The story remained true to the original apart from certain things which were not problematic. The Last Airbender movie was basically an abridged version of season 1 of the show. Keeping to the key points of the overall plot while glancing over or omitting unnecessary adventures (things that contribute in no way at all to the plot)
There are a few things that could have been done better: there was one scene where exposition was uncomfortably spouted out hastily and was shot entirely in close-up. This scene should have been a medium shot and with a better paced delivery. Another scene that should've been done better (this is a bit of a spoiler) Aang (pronounced with and extended short a sound) turns to Zuko and says, "we could be friends" and then the scene cuts to something else abruptly. It should have either zoomed out slowly revealing Zuko's reaction or panned slowly to do the same, or even had a close up of Zuko's reaction. But no, there is no shot of Zuko's reaction. Apart from that, I would've enjoyed a more steady calm pace to the production, but again, I have to keep in mind the movie is intended for younger audiences and they have shorter attention spans than I do. (I can sit through Seven Samurai without needing the intermission to stretch my legs.) If the movie was 2 hours rather than 1 1/2 it would've had more time to flesh out everything, as it was, it was a bit rushed at times, but it did manage to fit an entire season into that 1 1/2 hours, and for that I am impressed.
The artistic design is amazing, taking different approach than the show, while still keeping the same themes. Fire nation wears reds and their dress is similar to that of feudal era Japan. Earth nation wears greens and browns with styles similar to Ancient China. Water nation dresses in blues and dresses in both Inuit garb and Norwegian fair. And the Air nomads dress as Tibetan monks with oranges and yellows. The fire nation's ships have a mechanical industrial feel whereas the other ships seen are made of wood as those of the sailing age. Character designs are true to the source material but have their own style. Zuko for instance appears as he does in season 2 rather than his appearance in season 1. Katara's hair is down, and the Fire lord has short hair, which suits the actors. Another thing that may take people aback is that the Water nation are all Caucasian rather than "Inuit" as in the show. The Earth nation are all Southeast Asian, and the Fire nation are Asian-Indian. The Air Nomads are mix between many ethnicities.
While the story may not seem as compelling to adult audiences, remember it is for children and is based on a children's show. The people who complain about it are ignorant of this fact and of the show itself. For instance, I've heard in other reviews that the show was referred to as an anime. Which is incorrect. The show is American made, though it is done in a Japanimation style, it is a nicktoon, written by Americans (hence the mispronunciations,etc) This movie is actually well done, with amazing actors especially Shaun Toub as Iroh. I really do hope that M. Night Shyamalan makes the other two to complete the story. The Last Airbender is a great movie and should be viewed in the manner it was intended. I'm actually planning on seeing it again, and maybe for a 3rd time, who knows. I suggest this movie not only to fans of the show but to casual viewers as well. Though keep in mind, you won't be getting the whole story. For that you'd need to watch the series.
Go see it, now!

recent games

2010-06-20T17:41:00.000-07:00

This is an impromptu attack because I'm bored waiting for a video to load on another site (the spoony experiment){go check it out, hilarious}
anywhay...
Where was I, oh yes. I've been on vacation the last few weeks and apart from hitting the beach I played some of the newer videogame titles that have hit the shelves in the last month. I've only just gotten to them and have been busy with other things so I've only gotten ahold of 4 games. Red Dead Redemption, Metal Gear Solid Peace Walker, Iron Man 2, and Mod Nation Racers.

MNR has been out for a little while but I finally got my hands on it. I haven't beaten yet, but I would like to give a brief rundown on it. For those who don't know. MNR was made by the same team that brought you Little Big Planet. But this is not a mischief filled platformer, it is a racing game. To be more precise, It is a cart (or kart) racing game. Akin to Mario Kart and the like. Which means that not only are you racing on wacky courses with jumps, rings of fire, water hazards, and other nasty squish-you obstacles, but there are weapons and items that you can use on your opponents. These range from hyperboosters, to missiles. Yet there's a limited number of weapons. All in all there are 4(not including the powered up versions) boosters, rockets, lightning, and shock waves. The lower level of these are ok for close combat but the power ups are what you need for long distance destruction. If you're falling behind on the polls, try collecting an item and see what happens. Unfortunately there's no difference in appearance for the items on the track. They all look like purple spheres, But they are necessary in some races. So far the races have had 12 positions. That means that there are 11 other drivers collecting weapons and aiming them at you. Lap 3 usually becomes a frenzy of rockets and shock waves with someone trying to boost through the carnage. Many times I've lost at the finish line because of a salvo launched behind me, but that's also the fun of the game. You never know whether you're going to win are explode at the home stretch.
Along with the fast-paced, trigger-happy tracks, MNR offers a creation system (much like LBP) where you can customize your Mod(character) your Kart, and even custom make your own courses using the exact same engine that the designers used. Hours will be spent tweaking every little detail, or you can just make the track itself and have the game auto populate it. It basically picks the obstacles, and decoration placement at random. Try it out for a spin. You just may enjoy it.
MNR has both online and offline multi-player so you can have fun blowing your friends up and stealing the gold medal(or whatever you get for winning) All in all it is an enjoyable and addicting game.

RDD is a western for the ages. The most expansive and engrossing western game ever. Made by the studio that brought you Grand Theft Auto, you are place in the rough years of the early 20th century, where industry was taking over, and there was less and less need for pioneers and cowboys. You play as John Marsten - a former outlaw who is contracted by the government to take down his former posse. The land is so enormous that you can easily get lost. But not only that, it is beautifully designed. From the variety of landscape and sky effects you can spend hours just gazing into the distance. From dry desert, to the plains, to a snow covered forest, you will have lots to see. But don't get lost in thought, because you never know when a grizzly or a bandito will attack you. The random encounters give a whole new level of gameplay that not many other games offer. The music sounds like its straight from a spaghetti western and really transports you into that world. The dead eye system (which slows down time and allows you to take more accurate shots) works with all weapons and not just the revolver. There's also more variety of weapons than in other western games as well. However the weapon menu does not pause the game, so make sure you're out of the line of fire when you change weapons or you could find yourself laying face up.
Not all random encounters are dangerous, some are just people who want a ride into town or even to reward you for your good deeds. There is an honor system (that is similar to the fame system in infamous) however it does not change the outcome of the game nor the missions, so there's no real incentive to be good. There is a wanted system, much like in GTA4, and the combat is similar as well. And of course like most Rockstar games, you can keep playing after you've beaten it, and with the random encounters, saloons, and even bounty missions there's enough to peak your interest for a long time to come.
But the game is not without faults. Among the top are: cannot swim, duel mode sucks, authorities come way too fast once you've done something wrong(by accident) seriously I walked into a town and everybody and their grama was shooting at me. So I shot back and Bam, I'm the one who get chased by the sherif. By I digress. The dueling system is flawed. You are encouraged to win non-lethally by way of shooting their gun from their hand or their hat off their head; however, there are some duels where that is impossible. I tried several times to win non-lethally, and every time I died. So I had to just pump them fill of lead. I could go on but I've got a few more games to discuss in this attack.

Before I get to the best game I played recently, lets discuss the worst. Iron Man 2.
Now don't get me wrong, I love Iron Man. I love the movie I love Iron man 2 the movie, but I am greatly disappointed in the game. Before I discuss the bad, I will talk about the good.
The game does not follow the movie (yes I find this a good thing) it is an adventure that takes place sometime after the events fo the movie, So You may need some knowledge of the movie (but not much) A few characters from the movie appear in the game, but most of the characters are either new or movie-like versions of comic characters. That's one of the things I love about the game, they take classic icons from the comics and use the designs from the movies to make them fit in that universe. The voices are done by the actors from the movies, so they have the same mannerisms. And you can play as either Iron Man or War Machine. SHIELD Helicarrier!
Now for the bad: I'm going to come out and say this. The designers put no effort into this game. The controls are all over the place. It takes too many buttons to do things and even then, the directional controls with the camera and flight controls are awful. It is difficult to lock on target. While you can press a button and lock, it doesn't always lock on the nearest target, nor does it lock onto targets directly behind. The game seems short, compared to other super hero games. One of my biggest problems is that it is not free-roam. In my opinion super hero games should be free-roam, where you as the hero scour the city and answer the call for help. But no. this is a straight up mission-by-mission game. Now for the biggest problem. The graphics SUCK. Where were the designers. Not at work obviously. I mean this game is not PS3 quality. First gen PS2 maybe.
For years the rift between PS3 and PS2 versions of games has been wide, but this is ridiculous. I'm glad I just rented this game and didn't buy it. I would be totally miffed if I paid $60+ for this piece of trash.
Ok. now don't you all get mad. I do kind of enjoy playing this game. I mean, I'm flying around, cracking skulls as Iron Man or War Machine. Now that's at least something. But they should have left this game in the oven a bit longer.
Now make it free roam, include things from this game like the hellicarrier - make it a fully explorable environment. Fly around and save people from things and bad guys and stuff.

Now I will talk some about the best game I've played recently. MGSPW.
I plan on doing a more extensive review, but heres a short version.
Aside from having the usual problems with PSP games (the control limitations ) Kojima Productions has outdone themselves once again. Pushing the technology to the limits and beyond. This is the most extensive PSP game ever made. Now before you say "that's not that impressive" keep this in mind. A UMD disc is a 1/4 the size of a normal one and no where near has the data storage of a modern bluray disc, yet PW has more content than MGS4. Can you believe that.
While the story is on the short side(compared to the other games) it is engrossing and filled with intrigue. You play as Big Boss in a MGS3 sequel. BB has been busy recruiting a mercenary army when he is contacted by Galvez who wants him to pursue a mysterious military that has invaded their country. On his mission, BB uncovers the new Metal Gear code named Peace Walker.
I'm not going to get too in depth with this, but the game continues after the story mode. There are dozens of side missions and missions where you send troops into battle. With an ever growing tech tree, you can play to your strengths and use the right tool for the right job. If you're a MGS fan, you definitely want to play this. It IS an official game in the series, directed by famed series creator Hideo Kojima. There's soo much in this game, that I could just go on and on, but I'll save that for another time. Needless to say, It was a very enjoyable escape that I have been hard-pressed to put down. Hours of stealth action await gamers who get their sneaky mits on Peace Walker. I strongly advise getting this game, not just for MGS fans but any gamer. It is an experience like no other. So Snake in, play with a friend. Oh, I forgot, the entire game is co-op-able. Is that a word. It is now "co-op-able" copy write Random Ninja Attack (june 26, 2010) You can play every mission in the game in co-op, that is amazing and a first for MGS. I hope it is a light of things to come from the awesome team at Kojima Productions.

Well that's what I've been up to (apart form looking for a job, and dealing with family matters) but expect a few more things to come in the next week, until then, be careful when you walk down that dark path because you never know when you may walk into... a RANDOM NINJA ATTACK!!!

News

2010-05-29T14:39:00.000-07:00

Episode 5 will be up in a few weeks. I've been on vacation for the last couple. Here's a list of things to come.

Power On Episode 5
Power On Episode 6
Power On Shopping Network
NinjaCard Commercial
Text Review Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons Of Liberty, the novel

There's also a few other things I'm working on, I can't wait to get them started. I don't want to give too much away, but I'm trying something new. I hope everyone out there in internet land is having a good summer.I will see you when I see you.

Ultimate Universal Irony

2010-04-05T17:42:00.000-07:00

Ok, now this is so Ironic that it is hard to believe but it is 100% true. I was flipping channels and as I was, I noticed that Brokeback Mountain was on. I continued to flip and on another channel at the exact same time Family Guy was on, and as the family was sitting around the campfire, Peter was singing a song about cowboy butt-sex. If that isn't the ultimate universal irony I don't know what is.

Power On - Episode 4 "Televised Trauma"

2010-03-26T05:55:00.001-07:00

The Random Ninja drops in on his friends KB, Beanie, and Francis only to find them gone. While he waits for them he decides to watch TV and witnesses some strange transmissions.

Attack on Stupidity #3

2010-03-25T14:33:00.000-07:00

Here it is the long awaited Attack on Stupidity #3.
Yet another episode where I describe the completely stupid acts of people.
This one will be a bit different as it pertains to one specific person and not a group.

For those who don't know, I work on photography. As in film. I photograph and develop my own film. Film is a complex mistress. For those of you who don't know how film works here is a shortened version. Fim is light sensitive. The camera lens via a shutter allows light to expose the film which created the image. In order to ensure the image is developed, the film must not be further exposed to light until the development process is finished. This means that you will be in almost total darkness during the process. During development you will be under the safe lights which are red and doesn't effect the film, once it is in the tank. However, before that, the film must be removed from the canister it comes in and put on a spool which will be place inside the tank which the chemicals will be pour into. This process MUST be done in total darkness. Not even the red lights can be on. Once the development process is complete, which takes around 30 minutes, only then can the lights be turned on.
You must understand that the development is more complicated than that, but that is the brief rundown.

I was in the process of spooling my film. I was developing 3 rolls. Two 35mm rolls and one 120mm. I had already spooled one of the 35mm rolls and was just beginning to spool the other when the lights came on. Not the red lights. Oh no. The white lights. The person who turned the lights on had just finished developing their film, and did not ask me if they could turn the lights on. This is quite improper to do, as I have stated that film is very light sensitive. What they did could have and quite possibly might have ruined my roll of film.

I continued working on developing my film, after turning the lights off. After developing all 3 rolls I was finally able to see how it went. Many of my images did not develop.

People who work in darkrooms should always observe proper darkroom etiquette.

Attack on Gamer

2010-03-01T20:50:00.000-08:00

Gamer is probably the best video game movie ever made. (so far) Why? Because it's not based on a video game. It has elements from games and also plays on society's interest and fear of total control. Yet it is not entirely original either.

WARNING! This text review WILL contain spoilers.

In Gamer, technology has advanced so that people can participate in online social and war games not by controlling digital avatars but by controlling living breathing people. Players can make these people do anything that they want. The inventer of the tech and the "games," Ken Castle, has become the richest man in the world. Thousands if not millions of people play his "games"

The two games he has produced are a social sim called Society and a brutal shooter called Slayers. In Society, people control the actions of their "avatars" in whatever sick and twisted ways they desire. They can force these people to rave, take drugs, imbibe alcohol, and even have sex against their will. The "avatars" while in the "game" have no control over their actions - total control is given to the "players" at what I can only expect is quite a sum of money. Total control is achieved with nanites which replace the "avatar's" brain cells and give the "players" a direct link through an IP address. Much like a computer that connects with the internet today. Frankly this sounds very much like SOP (Son's of the Patriots) from Metal Gear Solid 4, but I digress. While in control over the "avatars" the "players" can customize their appearance; which includes: outfits, hair, make-up, accessories, and anything else. Let me just say that these "players" are sick.

Slayers is more recent. In this game, "players" control death row inmates in a game akin to most shooters of today ( ie Army of Two, Gears of War, etc.) where they control and kill living beings using a traditional third person camera. In this "game" the "players" control these convicts for their freedom. IF the convicts can survive 30 matches, they will be freed from their sentence. "Players" can purchase upgrades for their "avatars" such as new weapons and body armor to ensure that their "avatar" survives. But when it comes down to it, its up to the "players" to ensure their "avatar" lives. One such "player" is Simon who controls the "avatar" Kable. Together they are only a few matches away from freedom. It turns out that "Kable" was framed so to speak, and is getting much further than Castle expected. Castle decides to kill Kable by any means necessary.

Not everyone is content with the Control developed by Ken Castle, in fact, there is a resistance cell calling themselves Humanz who are attempting to spread the truth about Castle's Control. Other characters include a talkshow host who is at first skeptical but realizes the truth and decides to help. Wait a minute...

A futuristic world, where convicts play in a game to win their freedom, yet the entire truth is kept from the public, and the one man who may win was framed. The creator of the game wants to kill that man just at the finish line, and there is a resistance group trying to go public with the truth and person working in television helps out. There's just something familiar about this plot. There's another story almost just like that. What was it? >cough< The Running Man.

That's right. Gamer is in fact an updated version of The Running Man which was originally written by Steven King under a pseudonym. The Running Man, for those who don't know, was about a man who was a helicopter pilot sent to prison for the massacre of innocent civilians, which he was framed of. After escaping, he runs into a woman who works in television, who believes the false charges. He is captured again, but this time is given the opportunity to participate in the world's most popular game show called The Running Man - which has criminals running through a maze in an abandoned city while being pursued and promising their freedom upon winning. During his run, he is chased by Stalkers who are trying to kill him and his fellow "contestants" which includes his friends from prison and the woman. They all know that he is innocent, and there is even a resistance group which is trying to show that the media is hiding the truth from the public. When it becomes evident that Ben Richards - the running man, is going to win, the media fake his death. However, Richards, manages to fight his way and confront the media and the creator of the game show, Killian, all the while exposing the truth about his so called crime and what the media has been doing.

Lets juxtapose this with Gamer. Kable - real name Tillman, was part of the early experiments of Castle's nanex control system. Castle controlled Tillman into killing someone, which gave Tillman a spot on death row. Castle then creates a game that grants prisoners their freedom if they win. Tillman does surprisingly well, and Castle sends in people specifically to kill him. A television hostess gets thrown into the fray when she decides to help Tillman and the resistance who are attempting to uncover Castles plot to control the entire world with his nanites. Along the way, they uncover the truth about Tillman's "crime", but not after Castle fakes Tillman's death when he was just seconds away from freedom. Tillman fights his way into Castle's HQ and confronts him, and with the help of the Hostess, reveals the truth to the world. Gamer, like The Running Man, ends with our hero killing the creator and freeing everyone from his control.

There are a few points in Gamer not from The Running Man, such as: the hero having a family on the outside which he is desperately trying to get to. And the whole Take over the world thing (of course) - in The Running Man, the world is already controlled by the media. Also the nanite control thing, which as I said, is more akin to Metal Gear. But it would make sense to get some inspiration from action shooter games. The use of save points, and an awesome heads up display for the "players" gives a sense of a real game that one might play. However, in this game you only get one life. (man that would have been a good tag line for this movie) It's mine now, you can't take it.

Visually, this movie is amazing. Society has bright high chroma colors and gives the feeling of a pop-style game, yet in Slayers the colors are muted, much more subdued and gritty, which really works for shooter games. High-tech and current tech weapons and equipment ad to the feel, as well as the customization of the "avatars"

This movie delves into the disturbing hobbies of gamers, and as a gamer myself, I am sad to say that there are people out their like that. I REALLY wanted the fat guy to get killed. I try to imagine that he did, what with the death squad showing up at his apartment.

Unlike The Running Man, Gamer shows a much more utopian future, but with the same problems. All in all, both movies are amazing, and culturally relevant to the times at which they were released. The Running Man, came at a time where game shows were king and everyone wanted the next awesome show with out-of-this-world gimmicks and outrageous contestants. Gamer was appropriate for its time due to the recent boom in video games.

But I think that both stem from the ideas introduced in one literary classic. That being, George Orwell's 1984. In which a utopian society is ruled by a totalitarian government by way of mass fear and constant monitoring. Everyone is constantly being watched by "Big Brother" and we must all think happy thoughts, or else we will disappear. FOUR FINGERS!

Anyway before I ramble on too long (too late) I must say that Gamer is an excellent retelling of an already great movie. It is The Running Man of this generation.

Day of the Hog

2010-02-02T08:40:00.000-08:00

Happy Groundhog day everybody!

As you all know, today is the day in which we all pay attention to the actions of a groundhog. He/she awakes from hibernation and emerges from their den, if the groundhog sees their shadow they run back into their den. We somehow determine from his/her actions whether or not spring will come early or if we will have six more weeks of winter. I'm not sure how a groundhog seeing his/her shadow is more effective than sophisticated weather satellites and doppler radar and such, but what do I know.

But it doesn't make sense to me. If the groundhog sees their shadow should that not indicate anearly spring, since the sun is returning to the northern hemisphere.

Haiku

2010-01-26T17:35:00.000-08:00

I just wrote a haiku

127

240

Random Joke Of The Week

2010-01-22T19:17:00.000-08:00

What do you call a man who lives in a monastery and works on computers?

... A chip munk. :D

Power On - Episode 3 "What's So Funny About That?"

2010-01-20T05:04:00.001-08:00

BEANiE has been missing for weeks, but KB and Francis have been making the best of it by watching sitcoms; but something goes awry, and they may be seeing their dear friend sooner than they think.

Power On - SNOW!

2009-12-05T11:16:00.001-08:00

Happy Feast Day of Saint Nick to all!

Jolly old Santa has outdone himself this year and delivered a wonderment of winter white. That's right. It has snowed in Mississippi! I've capture the moment on video for all to enjoy, so enjoy!

A veritable blizzard strikes the sleep town of Hattiesburg, MS. A pounding one-and-a-half inches of snow on the ground! Call the National Guard! It rarely snows in Mississippi, and when it does, people go crazy: Snowmanicide, yellow snowcones, drive-by snowings, Snowmaniflia, MADNESS! Throwing all continuity to the wind, BEANiE and KB brave the elements and the possible loss of their limbs to document this momentous occasion. Will they, too, lose their minds? Journey with them as they face the Blizzard of '09.

Power On - Episode 2 "Assassin's Creed II: Master Assassin Editon"

2009-11-23T14:54:00.001-08:00

BEANiE returns to find that Francis is still playing dragon age origins. But BEANiE has a surprise, he's just returned from the videogame store with a large package. What could it be? He's going to tell you.

KB's Muzak Corner

2009-11-21T08:33:00.001-08:00

KB returns to his room to find Francis listening to his ipod. Francis then insults KB's taste in music. This inspires KB to make his own show to show Francis he knows his stuff.

Friday the 13th!

2009-11-13T20:54:00.000-08:00

Happy Friday the 13th all!

As you know today is supposed to be the most unlucky day of the year! Isn't that awesome! However I tend to find Friday the 13th a quite lucky day in many cases. Like, I will discover something awesome or finish a worthwhile project.

However Sometimes there is just as much good luck as bad.

Today for example: I nearly got violently ill this morning, then I started a "new" job (long story there) But my first assignment was canceled due to certain difficulties. Then I got to watch all 3 Mad Max films on tv! So... pretty even.

But you all know why Friday the 13th is unlucky, right?

Well it has to do with the Crusades and the Knight's Templar. The Templars were a bad bunch and a plot was formed to eradicate all templars. This plan was carried out on Friday the 13th. They were all killed, and that's a quick explanation of why Friday the 13th is so unlucky.

However your Friday the 13th went, I hope all is well.

Good feelings to all!

Dragon Age: Origins

2009-11-10T10:58:00.001-08:00

BEANiE is nowhere to be found! But all is not lost. Random Ninja arrives at the request of Francis to perform his first ever video attack! What is up on the block today? A game which needs no introduction. In lieu of having his own actual gameplay footage, he show's what little he could find. Dragon Age: Origins is property of Electronic Arts and Bioware. Video was found from internet sources such as IGN.com. What is the Random Ninja's opinion?

This video can also be found on Random Ninja Attack's Youtube channel.

Higher resolution video is on the youtube channel.

November 5th

2009-11-05T20:31:00.000-08:00

Remember, remember the Fifth of November,

The Gunpowder Treason and Plot,

I know of no reason

Why the Gunpowder Treason

Should ever be forgot.

Guy Fawkes, Guy Fawkes, t'was his intent

To blow up the King and Parli'ment.

Three-score barrels of powder below

To prove old England's overthrow;

By God's providence he was catch'd

With a dark lantern and burning match.

Holloa boys, holloa boys, let the bells ring.

Holloa boys, holloa boys, God save the King!

And what should we do with him? Burn him!

Happy November 5th Everybody! I'm sure you all remember at least the first line of this poem. Fight the power!

Updates!

2009-11-04T15:52:00.000-08:00

Random Ninja Attack is now on Twitter!

Follow @random_ninja5

Also Random Ninja Attack is powered by Blip.tv!

Power On episode 2 is coming soon. Can't give an exact date I'm afraid, because right now certain things are taking precedent ahead of filming. But it will be an actual review and not just a spoof.

Some people expressed feelings of confusion after watching it. Episode 1 was a spoof on the thriller movie "Perfect Blue" I guess people who haven't seen the movie wouldn't understand the references. But isn't that why people watch these kinds of reviews? To see things they haven't before. Anywhay...

I hope you guys enjoy future videos.

Upcoming Segments

2009-11-02T15:35:00.001-08:00

Happy Day of the Dead, all!

I thought I would just post a list of future projects in the works.

Power On - Episode 2

Let's Play: Shadow of the Colossus

More text reviews

More attacks on stupidity

and so on...

I hope everyone out their has a good week, I'll see you all in the next post.

Power On - Episode 1

2009-10-31T12:58:00.000-07:00

First video Review!

Happy Halloween Everybody!

Something goes horribly wrong when Beanie attempts to review a horror movie. Has he been sucked in? What will become of him? Will he get out or will he forever be the prisoner of his tormentor?

Attack on Horror Games

2009-10-27T12:34:00.000-07:00

Also in keeping in with the season, I thought I'd do a review of the genre pertaining to horror video games.

I'll admit that I am not a big fan of Horror games, for a few reasons:

1, they're not scary

2, the story usually sucks

3, the controls are usually overly comlicated

4, what constitutes a "horror" game anywhay?

As I said, I am not a fan of these types of games; therefore, I haven't played many either. Among the ones I have played are some of the Resident Evil(Biohazard) and Silent Hill games. Even Devil May Cry, but I wouldn't really call that horror (even though it deals with demons and junk) But the Resident Evil and Silent Hill games are really the ones that carved out the genre we all know. And lets just say, because of them I'm not a fan of horror games.

In Resident Evil, you play either a male or female S.T.A.R.S. operative (mostly) there has been an outbreak of the T-Virus which causes the deceased to become reanimated and crave to feed on the flesh of the living, and in some cases cause severe mutation. Simple enough. So what's the problem? Well ya see, this game would technically be called an over the shoulder action shooter game because that's what it is. It just so happens that there are zombies and monsters running around. The controls are terrible(which IS the main reason I stopped playing the games) I mean really, I have to press the directional right or left buttons and then the down button to turn around (fully rotate the analogue stick once available) that's utter bull! I want to be able to turn at a moments notice in the direction I need to go. And don't say the technology wasn't there. There were plenty of games around that time that allowed instant direction change. It's a hinderance to have to fully control the turn. When zombies are pouring into the hallway I want to be able to run not pivot slowly while they draw nearer. It doesn't make sense.

Now like I said, I think this game series more accurately belongs in the action genre and not the horror genre. it's not that scary. "Yes it is," you say? Take a closer look. What is really scary about it? Monsters? Non horror games have monsters and its not scary. Zombies? Just think of them as a mass of slow moving targets. They aren't scary, there's just way too many of them. That can go for any action game too. When you're surrounded by dozens of enemies(no matter what kind they are) you get anxious. Then is it the fact that things pop out at you? The classic jump scare. All games nowadays and even back then had moments where something unexpected jumped out at you. Especially action games. You're walking along a path, or through a clearing minding your own business when BAM! monster. Resident evil is just an action game with zombies in the dark.

One of my most anticipated horror games coming out is Saw. Now I haven't played it yet so I can't really include it in this review, but I will say it seems scary from the footage I've seen. If you've seen any of the movies, you know the drill about how it works. You play a person who has to go through Jigsaw's maze of death traps. And at any moment you could to the wrong thing and BAM! dead. It seems to have an uber dark atmosphere like the movies, where you're not entirely sure what is in the shadows. I'm sure there will be some jump scares as well, but it is not an action game. Saw is a puzzle solving game. You must think in order to survive. The problem here is that once you've figured out the puzzle it lessens the replay value of the game. (that's the problem with all puzzle games, but I still play them) I will definitely play this game because its not an action game masking itself as a horror game.

Now that i've talked about the horror game genre, I'd like to illustrate the top 6 of my favorite scary moments out of video games (not just horror games) Carefull there may be spoilers ahead...

#6 Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty - During the final act of the game, Raiden - after being captured and robbed of his gear - must sneak through the Tron-looking facility butt naked. It is then that he begins to receive abnormal codec calls from the Colonel. In these calls, the colonel's voice becomes distorted as if he's mechanical. The calls also range from him giving you mission orders from the previous games, to him talking about being abducted by aliens. But the Scariest moment is the first call. Raiden - butt naked covering his junk - runs up a flight of stairs. And the colonel calls saying, "Raiden, turn the game consol off right now... The mission is a failure, cut the power right now... Don't worry, it's a game. It's a game like usual..."

"You'll ruin your eyes playing so close to the TV..." interjects Rosemary. Now a videogame telling you to turn it off is pretty out there, but think about this. Like me, most people who played this game probably played straight through with no stops(except potty breaks hopefully) and reached this point of the game after about 20 hours, probably between 2:00 and 4:00 in the morning. Running only on adrenaline and the drive to beat the game, they (and me) were extremely exhausted when this was dropped on them. I was terrified. The Colonel, the man guiding me through the game suddenly tells me that I've done something wrong and should turn off the game. And to top that, every now and then his face disappears and you can see his skull. WTF! It terrified me so much that I wont even look at the screen at that part of the game. Now to be fair, this is not as effective a scare when you play it at noon in the bright daylight. You can tell that the designers knew that people would play straight through the first time and reach that point in the still dark of 2:00 am tired and unwary. It still freaks me out tho.

#5 Metal Gear Solid - About halfway through the game you run into the boss character Psycho Mantis. At this point in the game you've already fought 2 bosses, so you're getting a little cocky. Well the game has a surprise for you. Apart from Mantis reading your memory card and moving the shock controller(which I still think is neat) you're not intimidated by his tricks and you're ready for what ever he throws at you. Or are you? The fight begins, you hear Mantis' creepy laugh and BAM! the screen goes black. A word pops on the screen "video" and you think, omg I turned off the game at a crucial point and like mantis said I havn't saved in such a long time! After a moment the screen comes back on and You see that you didn't turn the game off, but something's missing. Where is mantis? He's gone. You just have time to think, "wha't going on here," when BAM! mantis attacks you. That guy is invisible! SOB! After a few minutes of dodging his invisible attacks he reappears. Now it's on! You pull out your trust SOCOM and open fire. Wait. He dodges all of the bullets! What the hell! BAM! screen goes black again. The word video is back, but wait... it doesn't say video it says Hideo. For those of you who don't know (and shame on you for that) Hideo Kojima is the creator of the Metal Gear Franchise. So it is all to mess with the player. It really shoots down your confidence. I was 12 when I played the game for the first time, (again really late at night) it freaked me out beyond belief, now I've beaten the game so many times it doesn't even bother me, but it still remains one of the most terrifying moments of my gaming history.

#4 Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater, Around 2/3 of the way through the game, snake is captured, and tortured, ultimately losing his eye in the process. Afterwards Snake is held in a dingy cell and fed rotten food. I need to take this moment to explain a side aspect of the game. Every time you enter a new area and save the game Paramedic will enlighten you with a synopsis of a movie she's seen (generally science fiction) this will conclude with a witty banter by Snake which annoys paramedic. If you save the game while snake is in the cell, paramedic will tell Snake about dracula, and we find out that snake is afraid of vampires. What's the scary part, you ask? Well, I actually found this by accident. It only happens if you load the saved game from the cell. I had to stop playing because it was dinner time, and my family went out to eat. It had been a few hours since i had played, by the time I started again it was pretty late at night (again 2-3 am) I loaded the game expecting to just escape the cell and continue on my way. I loaded the game whenBAM! I was playing a completely different game. I was no longer snake. I looked more like Dante from Devil May Cry or something similar. I was in a warehouse being attacked by monsters dressed like cops. They were wolfish and large, but I had 2 sword-like weapons and began to tear into them, eventually if you kill enough monsters you transform, your hair becomes white, and instead of swords, you use your bare hands to tear the monsters in half with blood gushing. You also bound around on all fours. You eventually go back to normal. and the screen fades. Snake wakes up in the cell after having a nightmare. I was shocked and terrified when this happened. Now I just think of it as cool, and play that section on purpose.

#3 Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater. Halfway through the game you initiate a boss fight with a sniper called The End. This fight takes place in 3 areas. The End is a terrifyingly good shot, but that's not what makes this moment terrifying. There is no music during the boss fight (there's actiony music in every other boss fight in all of the games) The weather changes from calm and sunny, to a heavy rain, and to fog. The End is perfectly camouflaged to blend into the environment and he could be anywhere just waiting for you to come by so he can shoot you, which he will if you just go running around. And if you think you can wait him out, you're wrong. He doesn't move until either he shoots you or you shoot him. (he does fall alseep tho, which makes it easier for you to move in on him) He also can sneak up behind you. which is the most terrifying. You can only see one direction at a time. Sometimes you need to use First Person Perspective to find him, but that's when he'll sneak up on you. This and his creepy voice echoing through the valley, make The End one of the scariest bad guys in MGS. But like with mantis, once you've gotten through it enough times it means little.

#2 Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater - I know i've got a lot of it here, but seriously the Metal Gear Series is closer to a horror game that resident evil is. After Snake escapes the cell, he has to get across the fortress without equipment, then run through a sewer being chased by dogs. He eventually leaps down a waterfall and gets pulled downstream. He wakes up and all of the trees surrounding the river are ablaze. Freaky, but not scary yet. It begins to rain, which puts out the fire, and your next boss emerges. He is levitating (which isn't really scary considering the amount of levitating/flying bosses in MGS) He also has a creepy voice(but a great one) This boss is the Sorrow, at this point in the game he has popped in and out on several occasions, and it seems that Snake is the only one who can see him. One the boss fight starts. I know you're expecting me to say BAm again, well not this time. The boss fight eases to its start. It is pouring down rain, snake is waist deep in water, and The Sorrow is floating around infront of you. But wait. The Sorrow has no health. I can totally take this guy. I fire the only gun I have after the escape which is a Single Action Army Colt. But nothing happens, The Sorrow is immune to bullets, what Kind of fight is this? Are you serious? I can't kill this guy? so I walk forward and he floats back, I'm thinking that maybe I can punch him. You can! but again it doesn't kill him. He disappears and reappears further away from you. Slowly as you progress down/up the river (immersed in creepy music) you begin to notice ghostly soldiers approach you. They're slow, kind of like zombies, but unlike zombies, these are ghosts and cannont be killed again. After a short while you realize that these are every soldier you've killed up till this point. And I mean EVERY. Depending on how many people you kill, the time of this segment is longer or shorter. If you havn't killed anyone, only the bosses appear, but if you're like me back then, you killed every hapless person who crossed your path and you had to spend upwards of 15-20 minutes wading through the vengeful spirits. And they do hurt you if you touch them. After you finally get past the hundreds of dead and the bosses, you're finally alone with Sorrow. Now I can finally hurt him right? I'll just calmly walk up to him... BAM! I died?! how did I die? did I do something wrong? How am I supposed to beat someone who can't be hurt by bullets and can't touch? You don't. That's right, this is an unwinable fight. If you cycle through you're inventory at the game over screen, you realize that you're not dead, you're fake dead. Which is something else I'll have to explain. See in the game, Snake has pills that send him into a state of apparent death. this fools the enemy into thinking you're really dead, and they leave you alone. To revive yourself, you have a pill that does that also. You can use it once you die in the river. Now as with quite a few of the other moments on this list, I reached this point of the game really late at night, while I was tired. But even still, facing the spirits of every person you killed in the game as a "boss fight" is frightening.

and now the #1 scary moment in my gaming history... Shadow Of The Colossus. Just Shadow Of The Colossus. The whole game is terrifying. Ok the premise of the game is that you're character brings his beloved to a sacred shrine to bring her back to life. In order to do this you must fight 16 colossi that are hidden throughout the land. And The area of land that you have to search rivals that of San Andreas and Mercenaries. You are all alone except for your trusty horse. All you have is a mystical sword that lights your path, and you are sent out into this vast expanse of changing landscape (featuring everything from beach, to forest, to desert) in search for the 16 Colossi.At first you think yeah, I can do this, no problem. But then after a while into your journey, the vast emptiness and ocasional entrance of the quite creepy music begin to make you think that at any moment something horrible is about to spring out and eat your lunch. I'm going to be very clear on this point - the only monsters you have to fight are the colossi, there are no other enemies in this game. But the mood it sets really scares you. And there is a reason that the monsters are called colossi. Apart from a couple that are roughly the size of small elephants, most range in size from 3-5 story buildings, to battle ships and planes, and they only get larger from their. the final four as I like to call them are the largest monsters I've ever seen in a game(tho I av not played resistance 2 nor lost planet 2, but the final colossus is still larger than the laviathon and the massive akrid shown in the trailers) but it is still the mood and the fact that you don't know when you'll run into the next colossus. (one thing that i dont like in that reguard is that there is only one colossus out and about at a time. I think to make it truly terrifying, they should all be walking around at the same time, it's just you can't get to some as of yet. Shadow of the Colossus is a puzzle solving game, where you have to figure out how to defeat the colossi, but what sets it apart is that, after you kill them, the scene that follows is full of remorsefully toned music and you begin to question whether what you're doing is right. The physical marks become more prominent on your character as well, you grow horns, and you become pale with weird demonic markings all over you. With just the scope of the game and the creative gameplay, as well as the terror mood it immerses you into, This is my number 1 scariest moment in gaming.

I hope you enjoyed that, be on the lookout for the next review. Maybe even a video or 2.

Attack on Horror Movies

2009-10-21T14:32:00.000-07:00

What is it about human beings that we constantly desire to be scared out of our wits?

If you don't know what I'm talking about, just listen. Children love to jump out and scare each other; this does not always phase out as they grow older. I know some grown men that still pop around corners flailing their arms and screeching at the top of their lungs. Also, there are amusement parks, water parks, and countless annual fairs featuring rides so jerky and fast that you pee your pants before it starts. Yet we constantly desire to ride them.

One theory is that people enjoy the adrenalin rush from the fear and excitement. Are we insane? We desire to put ourselves in harms way just for a high we get afterwards? Raise your hands; How many of you played chicken? Now, How many of you played chicken on a bicycle? Now, how many of you played chicken on a bicycle against a train? I knew it. A good many of you raised your hands at each question. What is wrong with us? That's right, I said "Us." I've done quite a few reckless and irresponsible things in my day. And that includes taking a bicycle down a bumpy hill while holding sharp implements.

But physical fear is not the only way we can lose our wits, And seeing that it's nearing Halloween, I think its fitting that I talk about one of the most common ways we as human beings scare ourselves. Horror Movies.

Over the last century, horror movies have played a big part in the development of cinema as we know it. But what exactly is a horror movie? According to Wikipedia, "Horror films are movies that strive to elicit the emotions of fear, horror, and terror from viewers. Their plots frequently involve themes of death, the supernatural, or mental illness." Sounds good to me. But we also run into our first problem. Not everyone finds the same things scary. What's frightfully terrifying to one person may only be mildly annoying to someone else.

People are scared of different things. Someone with coulrophobia will be terrified of any thing dealing with clowns, but may not be scared of spiders like the person with arachnophobia. Which is why "phobia" movies don't really do well.

There's your good old-fashioned monster movie, but many of these can just appear cheesy and or not frightening at all. Some of these can even become action movies rather than scary monster movies such as Aliens, Predator, Cloverfield, even Godzilla.

Well there are movies based on horror novels. But many of these are never true to the original works or are just plain not scary. I've never seen a true rendition of Frankenstein that was anywhere close to Mary Shelley's book. Victor Frankenstein was a college student who was experimenting with alchemy not a full-fledged doctor studying scientific research. He didn't make the creature(not monster) in an underground laboratory in his family castle; he made the creature in his upstairs apartment in the city where he was attending college.

Now we come to tragedy movies. They just plain suck.

Moving on.

Haunting movies, whether or not these are based on "true events" does not change the fact that ghost movies are so cliched they're not original anymore. Come on, seriously. A family moves into a haunted house, the children notice things first, it's not until one of the children die or get harmed in some way that the parent/s notice. Things get worse toward the end of act 2, in act 3 we either get help from a priest, voodoo man, or some such thing, but the main character takes it into their own hands and nothing ever really gets solved; either the family moves away and tries to forget what happened, everyone dies, or the ghost go away. Its the same in just about every ghost movie, except a few which I like; The Sixth Sense is one of the most unique ghost movies I've ever seen. But even it, still has elements of the cliches.

Now we come to the most popular "scary" movie subgenre: Slasher/ serial killer movies. Another genre riddled with cliches. Pretty much if you've seen one, you've seen them all. Same concept - a small group/ family are systematically hunted down by one killer, who kills almost all of them, usually there is a heroine (female hero for those who don't know) I don't recall seeing one where there was a hero, unless you count Batman I guess (it follows a similar path, don't believe me? just watch them closely and see the similarities) the heroine will overcome her fear and take down the bad guy after everyone else except maybe one person (either the love interest or best friend) dies. Like I said, if you've seen one slasher flick, you've seen them all. Although there is one movie I've seen that has taken the subgenre and ran with it to an extreme and even points out the "horror" moments to the audience in a clever way. Behind The Mask: The Rise Of Leslie Vernon is awesome in that aspect, and I highly recommend seeing it.

Branching off from the slasher movie subgenre is yet another subbier genre. That is torture horror movies (or torture porn as some critics have called it). Basically the whole movie shows numerous people getting maimed and killed in horrifically graphic ways. These movies are full of gor, nudity, and helpless people who can't do a thing to save themselves because they're scared witless. Personally I don't really mind the gor so much as long as it is done artistically and not just a blood fest. But the thing is, in some of these movies, the victims are actually bad guys, and you end up rooting for them to die. That's messed up isn't it. The movie is justifying the deaths of the people by shoeing us their heinous crimes. So who's really the bad guy; the torturer or the victims? Either way, these movies can sometimes be enjoyable on a different level. One of the best examples is the first Saw movie. It had a dark and complex story that showed how everything was intertwined and connected and how these people are forced to see the error of their ways through torture. The later ones I don't like so much, they've basically made it so everything in all six movies are weaved together and joined, which is neat, but it requires you to remember every detail of all six movies. (I know six isn't out yet, but I guarantee you that it will harken back to at least something from the previous five.

Apart from those, what else is there? Well now we get to my favorite type of horror movie. Psychological horror/thriller movies. I really haven't seen to many good examples in live action movies, but there are some anime movies that really take the cake. I'll describe 2 of them, these happen to be 2 of my all-time favorite movies. The first is the original Ghost In The Shell. It takes place in the not to distant future, where technology has advanced such that people can have there "souls" basically and memories downloaded onto a cybernetic brain and can be put into whatever body they choose. AWESOME! The story centers around a secret police organization that deals with cybernetic terrorism. Criminals can hack into other peoples' bodies and force them to commit crimes. AWESOME! One particularly bad ass hacker is going on a massive crime spree. He calls himself the Puppet Master, and no one knows who he is, not even the american government (who hired him to begin with) AWESOME! The majority of the movie focuses on a hot female cyborg who leads this secret police and her quest to understand herself and her possible connection to the Puppet Master. It's not really a scary movie, but it is full of suspense and anticipation as you follow the cyborg on her journey.

The other movie that is a prime example of psychological thriller is Perfect Blue. This is also an anime movie. The story centers around a former pop star who attempts to form an acting career. Her fans don't take kindly to this and she even gets threatening emails from them. Her manager leads her further down the path of stardom and Mima(the pop star) has to make many compromising choices, including being rape(in a scene for the TV show she's in, not physically) posing nude for a magazine photographer, and being detached almost entirely from her former band. As the movie goes on, someone claiming to be her runs a website and knows exactly what she does everyday(as if someone is stalking her), people involved in these less than modest events wind up dead, and to top that Mima keeps seeing visions of the pop-star her tormenting her and committing the murders, Mima loses her grip on reality and eventually she can't tell the difference between her nightmares and her real life. The climax has such a twist that it'll blow your mind, and the sound track is so dissonent that it ads to the breakdown and you start to wonder which is real and a figment of Mima's imagination.

I highly recommend both movies.

Well there's my attack on horror movies. Many are just re-hashings of cliches and other peoples visions, but there are some that decide to take a step out of conformity and try something fresh. And those are always worth it.

Not Really an Attack... again

2009-10-16T17:17:00.000-07:00

Hi all. Random Ninja here again with an all too familiar tale.

Remember a few months ago when I told you the tale of my lost filling and the quest for a DDS? Well, just recently I lost another filling... the SAME filling to be exact! THE SAME FILLING! How is that possible, it has only been a few months and the replacement filling crapped out. I mean what kind of shoddy work was that. I wasn't even eating anything hard or corrosive. It popped out while eating a piece of boneless chicken. BONE-LESS. You know, the soft savoury kind. I was just eating it, la-de-da, minding my own business when, pop, it comes out. Well that sent me into a fit of rage I've not been in for some time.

With the shoddy work from the previous DDS (which shall remain nameless) I opted to instead use my regular dentist back home. Unfortunately I would have to wait a few weeks before I could be "worked" in.

Two Weeks of avoiding getting food and crud in the GAPING HOLE in my tooth. That was fun. But I somehow made it with no problems and was able to see the dentist who promptly stuck that fabulous needle filled with novocaine into my inner cheek. Then he decided to ask me about my career plans and how my life was going. Why is it that dentists decide that it's time for a chat right after they stick you with the numb.

While I was numb, the dentist did what the other one should have done. Re-drill the hole and then refill it. I thought I was done, but it turned out that I had two more cavities that needed tending to. However, they had to be done the next day. Why couldn't they be done right then and there. I mean don't they already have the tools and equipment out? It would've taken another five-ten minutes. Anywhay, I had to go back the next day and get those done.

They were on different sides my mouth, so I got double doses of novocaine. AWESOME!

My face was numb ALL day. So far, the fillings are doing well. Be on the lookout for the first video log, coming soon.

Updates!

2009-10-15T21:22:00.000-07:00

Coming soon to Random Ninja Attack:

Vlogs.

I am currently in the process of filming video logs which will be included on this blog and my youtube channel therandomninja5. These videos will be random attacks on things just like my blog posts. I hope you will all enjoy them.

Attack on Stupidity #2

2009-10-04T19:55:00.000-07:00

Here I am again with another observation into the world of the stupid.

Today I sat and observed a set of doors for a few hours.

To give you a better Idea of where I was. Think of a patio on the back side of a building with about a dozen tables. There are two double doors that lead into the building. Now this building is closed on sunday. EVERY sunday. This building is on a college campus, and we are half-way through the semester so there should be no excuse for not knowing that this building is closed on sunday. Now to be fair, the entire building is not closed, but the main part is.

In the course of lets say two hours, I witnessed no less than 50 people attempt to gain access to the building. Not all at once of course. Usually they were in small groups. And sometimes the groups would approach frequently.

Let me illustrate the scene... It's mid afternoon and a soft rain is falling. A group of girls approaches the double doors. The try the closest door. It doesn't budge. The accompanying door. Nothing. They pause and sigh a profanity. After a moment they try the other set of double doors. Almost immediately another group of people come walking up, chatting amongst themselves. They try the closest door just after the first group fail to open the second set of doors. More profanity ensues.

Ok they were just going to go through the building, but seriously groups would come one right after the other and try the exact same door as the people before them. and be surprised when even though it didn't open for the other groups, it wouldn't open for them.

But there were people utterly shocked that the building was closed on sunday. Even though it was already established that the building is closed on sunday.

Just for kicks, I propped one of the doors open. Would you believe that everyone tried the closer door rather than the one that appeared to be slightly open. They got mad that the door they went to was locked. Some people looked as if they were going to break the door down by pulling it of the hinges or something. I almost laughed a few times.

A get this. the building in question contains a Chik-fil-A. All Chik-fil-As are closed on sunday. How can you go to one and be surprised when its closed on a sunday.

One person even asked me "why the door won't open."

All I could do was shake my head and say was "It's locked"

Attack On "Mexican" food

2009-10-04T10:30:00.000-07:00

I'm sure just about everyone has been to at least one Mexican restaurant in their lives. Or at least has been to a fast-food Mexican restaurant(i.e. Taco Bell, Taco Casa, and any other variety of Taco Huts) I LOVE Mexican Food. But the thing is; the food you get a 90% of these restaurants isn't really mexican food. Mexicans don't only eat tacos, burritos, etc. Mexican food is very flavorful and spicy, but still unique.

Last night I ate at a "Mexican" restaurant. The atmosphere was warm and the air smelled of the delicious aromas I'd expect from that kind of establishment. I got my first notion that this wasn't really a mexican restaurant when I sat down. The waiter was Caucasian. Not that I'm against diversity, but anyway. The chips were covered in the powdered "taco seasoning" that you can buy at grocery stores such as Wal-Mart, Kroger, etc. Ok, I'll accept that. Sometimes, you want to liven up the chips by themselves without the aid of salsa. Then I tried the salsa. It was chock full of the powdered "taco seasoning" as well. Oh, it was awful. Not the worst salsa I've ever eaten, but close. Salsa does not need taco seasoning in it. Where do they get off, putting that crap in salsa. Ok salsa needs very few ingredients to be awesome: tomatoes, peppers, onions, garlic, and cilantro. That's it. do you see "taco seasoning" in there? No you don't. DOn't Put "taco seasoning" in salsa.

You may be wondering why I've put "taco seasoning" in quotes. that's because REAL Tacos don't taste like that. I friggn hate that powdered crap that stores call taco seasoning. Real Mexican food is naturally flavored. True some have a similar taste to "taco seasoning" but that's because of the chili powder. Not all tacos have chili powder. Besides, the real Mexican food is way better anyway. Carne Asada is amazingly good. Its basically thinly sliced steak which is seared with onions. Its simple its delicioso. And it doesn't contain "seasoning"

I ordered a taco plate(cause its a "mexican" restaurant and not a Mexican restaurant) and the meat was so full of that powdered crap I could barely choke it down. The real shame of it all is that your average joe(or jane) will eat this and think, "oh that's what all mexican food should taste like"

I grew up near a Mexican family, and I visited their home for dinner a few times. and the food they prepared could dance circles around the SPAM* served at these "mexican" places.

*Stuff Posing as Mexican

In conclusion, its ok to like mexican food, just remember which is more authentic. (and just having authentic in the title doesn't make it so.)

The sweet tea at this place was kick-ass though.

Attack on "Styles"

2009-09-11T13:35:00.000-07:00

Something I've noticed in the recent months: more and more people are starting to wear fedoras. For those of you who don't know, a Fedora is a type of hat which was popular in the late nineteenth and early twentieth century. In pop culture most would associate the fedora with one Henry "Indiana" Jones Junior; or Indy as most of his compatriots call him; Other than old men and famous movie characters, most people in the late twentieth century did not wear fedoras. The reason for this has something to do with JFK not wearing a hat at his presidential inauguration. Since then fewer people had worn them, but they were still around. However, recently there has been a major style shift and the fedora has come back. I rejoiced at this since it is my favorite style hat and has been for over twenty years. This shift I'm referring to happened within the last five years, but hadn't really taking hold until just a few months ago.

Until about a year ago, I was the only person around with one. Slowly I saw more and more people wearing them. "Wow!" I thought, "I'm responsible for bringing the Fedora Back!"

My euphoria was shot down almost instantly when I turned on my TV and saw that just about every pop, hip hop stars, and even rock stars wearing them. Oh, well. At least the hat was back in style and not just for old people.

Before this shift, ignorant people would take a look at my hat and assume I was some kind of cowboy or something. Fedoras are NOT the same thing as a cowboy hat. (although in the old west some cowboys did wear them) Nowadays I see the very same people wearing them like there the new thing. I've got news for you. Fedoras have been around for over TWO HUNDRED YEARS. But they didn't get popular until the late nineteenth century.

"Wait," you might say, "Why is the random ninja attacking fedoras if he likes them."

Well I'm not attacking fedoras. I'm attacking the people who DON'T know how to wear fedoras.

Fedoras don't go with everything. (depending on the color and type) Yet people seem to think they do. Fedoras come in a variety of styles from the wide brimmed (cowboyhat looking) to the inch brimmed also called a Porkpie. No matter the size, fedoras go best with long sleeved button up shirts. They don't go with T-shirts (unless the colors match perfectly, but still best not to even try it) both slacks and jeans work( if they're styler jeans, Fedoras Do Not go with carpenter pants) Sneakers are a no-no(unless they are a solid color and match the hat); boots or other dress type shoes go best. If you wear a T-shirt, wear also a opened button-up shirt, or jacket of some type. Blazers go nicely, and so do sport coats( as well as some others, track suits are a no-no)

For reference as for what is best to wear see: Indiana Jones, Rorschach from Watchmen, Humphrey Bogart in Casablanca.

I like that my favorite hat is back in style, I just wish that it had some style, ya know.

That's all for this attack, be on the lookout for the next one. >.<

Attack on Video Game Based Movies

2009-07-08T15:59:00.000-07:00

Video Games are a popular media and as such some of the most popular franchises have been made into movies. Movies based on other media are quite effective in broadening the fanbase. A good example being comic book based movies. People who don't read comics still go to movies based on them. The same can be said for video game movies; however to a lesser extent. Because, frankly, most video game based movies never hold up to the standards of their original. Now as I previously stated in my Attack on Metal Gear Solid The Novel, if the audience just wanted a word for word copy of the game, they would just play the game, and filmmakers know this, however, sometimes they go too far away from the original to where its not enjoyable to the fans.

Take for instance the Resident Evil Trilogy. While based on the Biohazard (Resident Evil) franchise, the movies actually had little to do with the story of the games. My biggest problem being the first movie. While the filmmakers did incorporate some elements of the game's story (more so with the second and third movie) it didn't really seem like Resident Evil to me. None of the characters of the game were present, almost none of the monsters were present, and it took place in an entirely different location. Granted, the "Hive" is located beneath Raccoon City and the entrance is in the mansion from the game; and granted, it delves into the corruption of the Umbrella Corporation; but as I said, none of the characters appear. The director of the movie explained that the movie is actually a prequel to the game and not a treatment of it, but why? Wouldn't a treatment of the game's story been an awesome movie? Why make a prequel, and introduce characters that are not in any of the games. Plus the movie doesn't show an accurate telling of the outbreak, and it does not show Tyrant - the biggest boss of the game.(not in size mind you - the giant plant takes that - which is also not in the movie) The movie sets up the character of Alice, to be a kick-ass secret Umbrella operative. Ok... Who's Alice? I know she's the main character in all three movies but who is she in the Biohazard franchise? Her character does not appear at all in any of the stories. The second movie is my favorite because it actually delves into the story of the games somewhat. It includes Jill Valentine - one of the main characters from the first game; STARS; and Nemesis! Ok they don't show Tyrant in the first movie, but they have one Nemesis in the second. One thing, there were multiple Nemesi in the game, and another, they weren't impossible to kill - just difficult. It takes place in Raccoon City, and seems like a real zombie movie. The third one is my least favorite for a number of reasons, which are spoilers so I wont discuss them. But one thing is ok about it but should have been in the first one. For those who have seen it, you know what I mean; for those who haven't you'll see.

Another horror game developed into a movie was Doom. While it was based on the premise of the game, it added in characters whose faults became their downfall. Like most games of its generation, the original game didn't really have a story. It was a first person shooter where you shot at monsters and demons on mars. The movie added a plot and we follow our heroes as they attempt to kill the demons. It was ok, but not great. The coolest thing about this movie is a sequence that harkens back to the old FPS game.

One video game movie which is ok but not great is the Street Fighter Movie. It had a fairly reasonable story which made sense and wasn't just an hour and a half of fight scenes, which it could have been since that's all the game is. It had almost all of the characters and each were close approximations to how I would imagine them. But really, it was basically a generic action movie with villainous dictators, rough heros, and comic relief where the characters were from Street Fighter. You could have had the exact same movie with the characters having different names and it wouldn't have changed it at all.

Now we come to a video game movie that took the game and said "listen, you!" It is one that many people have said to be a terrible game based movie, but I actually enjoyed it a lot. I'm talking about Super Mario Bros. I love this movie. Many people would disagree with me. Why? Because its not like the game? Super Mario Bros was a side-scrolling, monster stomping, technicolor, princess saving nightmare. You really want that in your movie? If they were to make a direct movie like that it would be a cheesy children's movie. True, the movie could have been better, with Bowser/Koopa actually being a giant spiky turtle. That would have been awesome, but other than that, I think the movie is one of the better video game movies out there.

My all time favorite video game based movie is of course actually the best video game based movie so far. And that is of course Mortal Kombat. Never has their been a more accurate treatment of a video game on the big screen. So far at least. I'm hoping the ones to come will give it a run for its money. But it had all that it needed and then some. First off, the cast was great, secondly they music made you just want to get up and punch somebody, and third they movie was just awesome. A martial arts tournament with the future of the planet in the balance, intriguing characters, and it all made sense. A video game based movie that expanded on the story and actually made sense! of course it didn't last.

Now I must discuss the absolute worst video game movie (i've seen) I cringe just thinking about the epic fail that is Mortal Kombat: Annihilation. It was awful. Ok the acting wasn't bad, and the story itself was ok, but come on. It is supposed to take place right after the first one. I mean immediately after. Sonya is all-of-a-sudden a different actress with short hair and a different outfit, Raiden is different, Shao Khan is not all that cool, and Johnny Cage... if you've seen it you know. I do like that they had more characters, but it lacked the punch of the first. It seemed like it tried to thrive on novelty alone, just cramming in as many characters as they could with a story that didn't really make sense in the MK universe. Its been soo long since I've watched it, so it might not be as bad as I remember, but I doubt it.

I know I haven't talked about every video game movie. That's because I haven't seen them all. I actually haven't seen all of Uwe Bol's movies. I've heard from other sources their quality. And don't really want to see them. I will say this though. Why is it so hard to make a good video game movie? The filmmakers probably don't go to the game creators beforehand or during to see if their on track. I can only hope that this changes. I would really like to see a good video game movie in the future.

Good Times

2009-07-02T16:30:00.000-07:00

There's a probability that I will be off-line this weekend so I will go ahead an give a holiday message. I hope everyone has a great 4th of July, eats lots of great food, and has fun with all of your friends and family.

I know I will.

Happy Independence Day, everybody! From your friend the Random Ninja

Attack on Metal Gear Solid: the Novel

2009-07-01T21:08:00.000-07:00

What comes to mind when you hear the title? For most people, they will reminisce about their youth when MGS1 was released on the PlayStation in 1998. It is one of the greatest video games ever made, and one of the greatest franchises in the video game industry selling millions if not billions of copies worldwide, (I'm including all the games here) but what made it so great?

Metal Gear Solid was more than just a game. It took the gaming media and brought it to a new high. For the first time, players were immersed in a world away from reality, yet still keeping realistic themes like love, fear, hatred, and betrayal. It was the first true cinematic game which seemed like the players were part of a movie rather than just a game - a story come to life so to speak, MGS1 was one of the first games to feature full voice overs both in-game and in the cinematics. It also featured a full soundtrack and realistic sound effects (for its time) Like all Metal Gear games, MGS1 pushed the PlayStation's potential to its fullest and even surpassed what was expected of it. Even still today, it is praised for its excellence. Now in it's fourth main console incarnation(not counting the original MSX games from the 80s. The Metal Gear Saga is one of those genre busting games that starts the player off in a familiar stance then throws them off their feet and challenges them to think strategically in order to complete their mission.

But this is not a review of Metal Gear Solid the game. Which is awesome and would take me forever to write a review up to its high level of gravitas. (possibly in the future)

Like many other widely popular franchises, Metal Gear Solid has had its run with almost every other form of entertainment media including: toys, clothes, radio dramas, graphic novels, and books. Not to mention the in-the-works Metal Gear Solid movie, but I'll touch on that in a later review about video game based movies. In terms of books their have been a few incarnations; mainly fan-written stories with their favorites characters, as well as novelized versions which are verbatum to the VO script to the games, and also unofficial versions of the main plot. However, there is one official written work.

This is my attack of Metal Gear Solid the novel.

Now I know what you're thinking, “It's just our favorite cigarette smoking, bandana wearing protagonist on an adventure that doesn't have anything to do with the regular canon of the games, right?”

Wrong. While on the outside you may think that, because after all, most video game based novels are just taking place in the same reality with either different characters or different circumstances; but in this case both are wrong. It actually is based on the first game. (by first I mean MGS1. MG and MG2:SS came out a decade earlier and I could do an entire attack on why the novelization of those sucks) But as it is this book MGSTN doesn't suck. It is written by Raymond Benson whom some of you may recognize as David Michaels, the writer of the Tom Clancey's: Splinter Cell books. I have to admit, his style of writing is not my favorite, but he is quite a competent writer and has a grasp on characters which he himself has not created.

After picking up the book, the first thing you notice, other than the familiar font used on all of the PS2 metal gears, is the cover image. Its the classic Yoji Shinkawa illustration of Snake with the goggles seen on the title screen of the game. Awesome! Yoji Shinkawa has been the lead artist and character designer of the series since MGS1, its only fitting that his work accompany the novel. It is one way that you can tell that it is an official release. Above the title there is a sentence which reads, “The official novel of the thrilling Konami video game created by Hideo Kojima!” By reading the synopsis on the back cover, you find out that this book is not just a novelization but actually delves into the mythos of the world Solid Snake inhabits, giving insights to the characters and their motivations, as well as a little back story (which helps tie-in the series)

Ok, there is a little hiccup on the back. Complaint #1: on the back of the book it says, “Solid Snake's mission is to breach the heavily fortified base to rescue hostages and to destroy the superweapon.” My problem with this is that; 1: its technically not a base, but a secret government-run nuclear warhead storage and disposal facility, but I'll cut them some slack seeing as that's a mouthful to put on the back cover synopsis; and 2: Snake doesn't know that there is a “superweapon” in the “base.” It's not part of his original mission plan, it only comes up after he finds out about it; but again, I'll give them slack on this because its a catching phrase and the prospective reader may buy more readily if they know there is a “superweapon.”

I'm not going to give spoilers (technically – since it is based on the game) but I will discuss the good, the bad, and the ugly of this novel. Pun intended.

As I said earlier, the writer gives insights into the characters that was not offered in the game itself, and he shows incidents outside of the game that influenced Snake and the other characters. He does this fairly well. Of course he did have several sources to draw from including: the game, the graphic novel, the development team, and the creator – Mr. Kojima – as well.

For those of you who have played the game, you will note several differences, many differences in fact that span the entire novel. These differences are not bad mind you, but it does detract from the nostalgia a bit. For those who haven't played the game or are just not familiar with it, this point is moot.

The first being that Snake meets the support team before leaving the sub. Not that this is bad, in fact in all likelyhood, he would have met the team before disembarking. Second; snake already has his SOCOM from the get-go, I actually do have a problem with this. Disregarding that it does make more sense that snake goes in with at least one weapon, in the game you have to out think your enemy while not having any weapons until a little while into the story. Third and most notable is that Snake goes in without his trusty cigs. Really? I mean, he even says that he was thinking of smuggling them in like he does in the game, but doesn't; although Snake does quickly grab some from an enemy which he comments are “terrible.” The author uses this as a recurring bit where Snake keeps complaining about having them instead of his “good” cigarettes. Another thing that fans of the game will note is that the structure of the facility has been altered to make it more convenient for storytelling. Again this really isn't all that terrible in that it does make the story flow better, but again, it loses nostalgia. Some of the fights are different than in the game, but this too makes sense, because a game and a novel flow differently. Its a bit more realistic in that it doesn't take a million bullets to take down the bosses like in games.

One thing I like about this novel is that Snake's inner monologue is shown in one line italicized text. However, halfway through the novel, these already established inner monologues are accompanied by the phrase, “Snake thought.” Why? We already know that these...

Metal Gear!?

...are Snake's thoughts. So why halfway through the book do they start saying “Thought Snake.”

One problem I have with the novel is that certain instances happen before they actually did in the game. Not by much mind you, but I think that these parts of the story flowed better the way they did in the game. This doesn't happen often but when it does its kind of annoying. Maybe people who haven't played the game wont notice these. Some instances were even left out entirely. All of the scenes were present but, sometimes little treasures were no where to be seen. When you read you'll notice which one's I'm talking about (if you've played the game)

I will say that the characters were intriguing and captivated me while reading, and it was all a bit more ground in reality that the game itself. As I said with the enemies being more realistic and not taking forever to kill.

Not all characters were as fleshed out as the others, one of these being Nastasha. Arguably though, you can in fact play through the entire game without actually contacting her. But It would have been nice if her character in the novel was a bit more fleshed out. Another character I feel that didn't get enough “screen time” was Mei Ling. True, she's not a big character in the game either, but she does play her part. She's just another character I feel could have been better developed given the style of writing. If the novel was only following Snake and didn't delve into the other character besides when he actually contacts them it would have been okay to leave her and the other characters not as developed.

The scenes which were added to the story do actually give more insights to character's and show that they are not just two-dimensional. Particularly one towards the end which I won't spoil for you. Just know that it is heartwarming.

A few discrepancies in continuity I noticed; 1:The Hind goes after the F-16s just like in the game but there's never any mention of their encounter again in the book. 2: Sometimes there were miscounts on Snake's ammunition (i.e. he used more chaff grenades than he actually had in one scene) 3: Some rooms from the game were combined into one for the book (this is okay in some instances, but in others gets confusing) 4: In one scene a room was actually added and didn't necessarily need to be. (you'll notice it when it comes up if you read the book) 5: (this is actually in the game as well) how does the Ninja get past the electrified floor? 6: Both Miller and Deepthroat tell Snake about things way before they need to (i.e. about weapons Snake needs long before the instance Snake will need them. - I know this makes more sense, but part of the fun of the game was coming to an area you couldn't pass unless you backtracked or went to a different area to obtain the item or items needed to pass.) 7: Snake's hair is black in the novel, yet clearly in the games its brown. 8: (this is more of a problem than a continuity error and may be a spoiler to those who don't know the story) the Hind fight is over way too quickly. 9: How old is Naomi? 10: (this is in the game also) How does Miller know about Octopus when clearly Snake has told no one about it? 11: (almost a spoiler) When Snake's hands are tied, how does he “punch in” the codec frequency? 12: they also don't show his hands being untied, but they are soon after. 13: (in the game too) How does Otacon get past the security hell that Snake must navigate (guards, traps, etc)? I know the explanation Otacon gives in the game and novel, but that still leaves a lot of places that he couldn't possibly get through by those means. 14: (though not really a fault of continuity but still...) conveniently placed items. (you'll notice them) There are actually a few more, but those would contain definite spoilers. If you've played the game, you will definitely notice them. Even if you are an adept reader and are knowledgeable of plot structure you'll notice them.

Overall I would say this book is pretty good, because if you wanted an exact word-for-word translation of the game, why not just play the game itself. It does read pretty fast, and as I said there are a few minor discrepancies, but those are generally overcome by the great character and overall story. The characters in the novel are true to their pixilated brethren (accept for some minor details which would kind of be spoiling, but are nevertheless close to how those characters would react) It's a fast read and a short read, being just over 300 pages long, but an enjoyable one. I would recommend that if you are a fan of the series, to at least check the book out, and even if you aren't a fan, but would still like to know the story. Especially if you are not a gamer and would like to know the awesome tale of Solid Snake without actually having to play through the game, you should check this book out. It's an affordable price and even cheaper if you buy from the internet.

I give Metal Gear Solid the novel a 4 out of 5.

Metal Gear Solid the novel is produced by Del Rey and is written by Raymond Benson, with cover art from Yoji Shinkawa and cover design by David Stevenson

Metal Gear Solid, Solid Snake and all other characters and games are property of Konami and Hideo Kojima

It is in the science fiction section of your local bookstore; also try Amazon.com

Metal Gear Solid 2 the novel is due out later this year. You can expect another review from the Random Ninja once it arrives.

Attack on Stupidity #1

2009-06-30T23:36:00.000-07:00

This will be the first in a long run of attacks about the stupidity of people in general. I will not get into any specific peoples because really this is not limited to any, in fact, I believe as a species the human race is pretty dim-witted. Even as I'm typing this my neighbor is banging on something - at 1:30 in the morning. But this is not about him and in fact he may have a good reason, plus if I were asleep I might not be annoyed by it. But I digress.

In the building which I live there are a total of 6 ways to exit the building: a front entrance consisting of four doors, a rear entrance, and four emergency exits. These exits are clearly labeled as such reading, "Alarm WILL go off." Yet, the inept mindless drones that inhabit the building refuse to acknowledge this and continually use the emergency exits as regular exits all to shave off probably thirty seconds to leave the building. Off course every time the door opens, the alarm sounds making everyone in the building think there's a fire. Every... Time...

This problem arose a few weeks ago when new tenants moved in - including myself. It occurred quite often and usually at night. There were even signs posted on the doors promising that if one was caught opening the door they would be subject to fine. However, this has had little effect as people still use the emergency exits to leave - most often the one by my door. See the building is set up like a capitol letter H with an elongated bar in the middle. My room is the last room at the end of one of the struts - right next to the E-exit. It annoys the crap out of me that people won't just take the extra 30-60 seconds to go out the front or rear entrance. Even if I'm running late, I go all the way to the front. And for me that is further than most people in the building.

Stupidity is an infectious desease that should be attacked and snuffed out before it affects the entire world. Unless its too late. Once I build my time machine, that will be changed. I have no qualms about altering the space-time continuum if it betters society at large.

Be on the lookout for the next RANDOM NINJA ATTACK!!!

Not Really an Attack

2009-06-29T19:20:00.000-07:00

A few days ago one of my fillings broke and came out of my tooth. I was really freaking out, because it happened literally over night. There was no warning to this sudden failure of MY FILLING. I was so preoccupied that I couldn't stop thinking about it all day. "Just go to the dentist," you say. Well, its not that simple. I am not familiar with the city I am currently in and had no idea where the dentist was. Plus I had pressing matters which needed to be taken care of that morning, so I would have to wait until that afternoon to begin my search for the dentist.

Once my pressing matters were complete, I was able to begin my quest. First I tried asking people where the dentist was... can you believe almost no one knew, or at least no one knew about one close by. Attention: you are about to witness a yellow book moment. After about an hour of asking around I found one person who had a phonebook and they kindly flipped through the yellow pages to find a nearby affordable DDS. It turns out there are dozens of dentists in this city, and one was fairly near. It took a while to find them though because there is no straight way to get their from my residence. Plus I turned the wrong way a couple of times and then passed them once.

Anywhay(I like to spell it this way) after a long and arduous journey I dragged myself across the threshold and submitted my plight to the fair maiden who stood sentry at the pearly gates. (get it? Pearly) I was prohibited from going further, for they were booked solid that day. But the fair maiden took pity on me and scheduled me for an appointment at a later date.

I was overjoyed, but now my quest was greatly expanded and revised. I now had to keep the hole in my tooth clean for three days. A difficult task indeed considering I keep emergency twizzlers by my bed and I love TACOS and Mountain Dew. Plus the hole was on my preferred chewing side, so I had to chew on the other side of my mouth.

I know what you're saying, "what a wimp, its just a hole in his tooth, its not the end of the world" and I would agree with you; however, I did not know the cause of this plus it happened in the night so I probably swallowed my filling, making me sick for a few days. Those were the longest three days of my life.

Today I went to my appointment and saw the dentist. This time I had no trouble finding the pearly gate and the fair maiden remembered me. But she still could not let me through the gate until I filled out the proper paperwork. Once I did it was just a matter of time. They led me into a yellow room and sat me on a grayish blue chair. I told the - what do you call them? - dentist nurse(for lack of a better term) about the hole in my tooth, she looked in my mouth then x-rayed me( i always enjoy being x-rayed 'cause you get to wear the bulletproof apron)

anywhay, after I waited an hour for the DDS to show, he came in and looked in my mouth also - poking the hole in my tooth with that steel hook of his. A shot of pain ran through my nerves. After prodding it a few more times, he informed me that there was no decay of the tooth and that the filling just popped out(for no apparent reason) I was relieved. I had thought that a cavity had opened up and went beneath my filling and shattered it causing all kinds of hell. But no, everything was fine except for the hole in my tooth.

The DDS kindly gave me a replacement filling, which required no drilling; so no novacaine nor NO2. (darn) I was hoping to be loopy for the rest of the day. but it was no trouble in filling in the hole. Of course, I forgot to mention, the missing filling was from my top left wisdom tooth. Oh joy. Tubes, hooks, and fingers were jammed as far into my mouth as they possibly could be. It took about five minutes, but now I have a new filling. Yay.

So that was my quest to get a new filling I hope you enjoyed it as much as I enjoyed getting it. Now I just have to wait for that taste to get out of my mouth, and its back there. My REAL ist attack is coming soon, I'm almost finished reading MGS the novel, and my Attack/Review will be up by the end of the week.

Attack #1

2009-06-29T18:44:00.000-07:00

Hi all, this is the Random Ninja. I will be starting a new blog that attacks multi-media. Not in a malicious way mind you but an attack none-the-less. Since this is my first blog, I do not yet have anything to attack as of yet, but rest assured that one will be coming soon. I will be both blogging and vlogging about the things that we use for entertainment and escape, including but not limited to: movies, games, comics, books, music, food, clothing, and television.

If you wish to request something to be Attacked, please contact me and let me know.

Here's a list of upcoming Attacks in the making:

- Attack on inFamous

- Review of Metal Gear Solid 4 Guns of the Patriots (because I just have to give my opinion)

- Attack on popular fast-food chains

- Review of Metal Gear Solid The Novel

- Coke vs. Pepsi

- Attack on Video Game Based Movies

- Space Ghost The Comic

- Cross-over comic: Hellboy meets Painkiller Jane

- and much more...

As I said, I am willing to Attack anything you all want to see brought down a peg or just for fun. Also I will post the videos on youtube as well, you can view those and other video projects I've done in the past at my channel therandomninja5. I've done AMVs, Short Films, Documentaries, etc. I hope you enjoy my attacks as much as I will enjoy attacking.