You gotta love old television shows! Enjoy this finding from 1988, when Nintendo was taking over the states. Brodcasted one year after my birth. o.o Scareh.

/Nurgle
@Start And Select

http://startandselect.wordpress.com

11 – Kavoc, Sewer, Kavoc, Sewer, Lake Forwel
12 – Kavoc, Outdoor Theatre, Lake Forwel
13 – Kavoc, Lapis Woods, Kavoc
14 – Lake Forwel, Crossroads, Proselyte Encampment, Collector’s Caravan, Lake Forwel
15 – Proselyte Encampment, Iris’ Resting Place, Poto’s Forest
16 – Zeldalia’s house
17 – Poto’s Forest, Iris’ Resting Place, Poto’s Forest
18 – Zeldalia’s house
19 – Poto’s Forest, Paka’s House, Kavoc
20 – Kavoc, World Map, Puni God

Arlin and a Puni

Sadly, I am finding it really boring to keep up with complete gameblogs for this game. (I am a lazy person and my notes are too many and too detailed.) So, instead, I’ve decided that I’ll summarize what I’ve done so far, maybe include the monsters I’ve come across and the treasures I’ve found, perhaps even a “face chat” or two, and include my stats. (That’s mostly what I like about doing this anyway, the stats. That way, I can see how far I’ve come from my previous stats and also, if I ever play this game again, I can compare with a new game to see how I’m doing.)

I ventured into the Puni God (which is similar to walking around in the whale in BoF2) and destroyed the strange Puni, called Super Puni, that was hurting the Puni God. In doing so, I obtained the Super Puni Ball, which is what Pilke the Fairy wanted, and in return he gives me the Gust Sphere and a promise to lend us a hand whenever we may need it. Anyway, this Gust Sphere is supposed to be important but as of right now it’s just a mysterious trinket. (While I was in the Puni God, I got some Frozen Rain, the stuff Norman wanted so he could have fish delivered from Lake Forwel without the fish going bad. For my troubles, I am rewarded 500 Cole.)

I don’t know how you’re supposed to know where to go next, but I do (having played some of this game before) and go to the Weapons shop. Hagel asks the party if we can pick up an order of mineral he’s placed to Arcose. Delsus thinks it’s a great idea, because it’s a port town and people from all over the world pass through there, so maybe someone can tell us something about those two mirrors that open Henmil’s Gate. He also adds that the monsters in that area are going to be stronger . . . but that won’t be a problem because I’m technically overlevelled at the moment. w00t! XD

Monsters (inside the Puni God): Mini Puni, Puni, Red Puni, Faux Puni, Invisible Puni, Golden Puni, Master Puni, Puni Brothers

Treasure (outside the Puni God): 260 Cole
Treasure (inside the Puni God): 1840 Cole, Dragon Fangs, Dark Mana x2, Fairy Claw, Love Gem

MANA
Popo (Wood)
Uru (Fire)
Plua (Dark)

MANA ITEMS
Heal Jar
Mana Jar
Ether Bulb
Flame
Bomb Ice
Sleepaid
Love Gem
Herbal Drop

So im going to start a new YouTube channel for all my gaming related videos, that will be linked on here and my completle new connection with the outside world! But… what should I call it? Start/Select is already a “show” that is on there at times. So stealing that would feel a bit odd.

Example of tips I’ve had so far:
Nurgles gaming Corner
The Swedish Videogame Nerd
The Swedish Game Nerd

I really need some good ideas for the name before I can start.

/Nurgleprobe
@Start And Select

http://startandselect.wordpress.com

Le MGS 09 a fermé ses portes il y a déjà deux semaines et il était temps de faire un bilan de cette mouture 2009. C’est la deuxième fois que j’allais au MGS (la première fois remonte à l’édition 07) et je peux le dire d’emblée : cette édition était meilleure sur tous les points. Explications.

Venant du Sud de la France et étant un client Gold, j’ai eu droit à deux entrées offertes, l’accès à la nocturne et un tarif réduit sur les entrées : en effet, tous les provinciaux payent le prix de la journée au tarif d’une demi-journée. J’ai choisi le week-end en tant que places gratuites (matin et aprem’ donc vu que je suis de province) et n’ai eu qu’à payer 5 € (le tarif de la 1/2 journée le vendredi) pour avoir un pass 3 jours. Sympa

Venons-en au salon à proprement parler : il y a deux ans, il avait lieu à La Défense ; cette année c’est à la Grande Halle de la Vilette que ça se passe et autant dire que c’est une bonne chose car le lieu est beaucoup plus propice aux grands évènements avec un plafond surélevé empêchant les bouffées de chaleur, car du monde il y en avait (500.000 personnes au total).

Après une vingtaine de minutes d’attente, j’entre et les stands se comptent par poignées. Les jeux à tester sont nombreux et parmi les jeux jouables je peux citer God of War III, Heavy Rain, New Super Mario Bros. Wii, Silent Hill Wii, U-Sing, Zelda Spirit TracksDante’s Inferno, Left 4 Dead 2, Avatar, Band Hero, Modern Warfare 2, Bayonnetta, Battlefield Bad Company 2…

Comme il y a deux ans, il y avait des projections privées de certains jeux et s’il y a deux ans, j’avais pu assister à la projo du premier Assassin’s Creed, cette année c’est Assassin’s Creed II qui était dévoilé. Le jeu était présenté par l’un des dirigeants du projet et il a bien insisté sur le fait que la répétitivité du premier opus était ici corrigée. Ezio, le nouvel héros, dispose de plusieurs armes et les missions sont plus passionnantes. J’achète.

Autre projo incontournable, celle de Super Street Fighter IV présenté par Yoshinoro Ono (le papa de Street Fighter) himself ! Il a présenté trois des nouveaux persos sur les huit qui seront inclus dans cette refonte de SF IV : T.Hawk, Juri et Dee Jay. Le jeu était présenté en exclu européenne et quelques joueurs ont pu tester ces nouveaux combattants. SSF IV corrigera le mode online de SF IV avec des lobbys et la possibilités de se réunir à plusieurs dans une même salle pour faire des tournois. Le prix sera amoindri pour essayer de faire passer ce gros patch sur disque. Heureusement.

Mais la présentation que je retiendrais, c’est celle de Final Fantasy XIII qui promet de déboîter sévère (09.03.2010 ! ) tant graphiquement (la transition scènes cinématiques/temps réel n’est pas du bluff) qu’au niveau de son gameplay. Final Fantasy XIII a donc toutes les cartes en main pour être le sauveur du RPG nippon sur consoles HD.

Splinter Cell Conviction était aussi dévoilé histoire de donner encore plus envie à ta CB de passer dans un lecteur de cartes. Exclu Xbox 360, ce nouvel opus de la simulation de cache-cache semble radicalement différent des anciens épisodes avec une partie action plus prononcée.

Cette année, le MGS n’a pas hésité à faire venir du monde pour en rameuter : Ono-san, David Guetta et même Egde pour les fans de catch ou Guily pour les fans de foot, tout le monde avait son compte. Il y avait quelques animations dont un quizz sur le stand JVN avec la présence de la rédac de Consoles+ ou du magazine officiel Xbox et j’ai pu y gagner une manette pour la 360 en participant à un quizz. Au niveau des personnalités, notons aussi la présence de Julien Tellouck, Marcus, Julien Chièze et Sinik :weshgros:

Cette édition 2009 du MGS était donc une franche réussite car elle a permis une fois de plus de pouvoir tester toutes les nouveautés à venir histoire de savoir quels jeux seront achetés prochainement. Pour ma part, Assassin’s Creed II m’a convaincu : j’avais peur d’une redite du premier mais les mécanismes dans le gameplay semblent prometteurs. La présentation de FF XIII m’a rassuré et ça promet d’être un très grand jeu, je suis conquis.

11 – Kavoc, Sewer, Kavoc, Sewer, Lake Forwel
12 – Kavoc, Outdoor Theatre, Lake Forwel
13 – Kavoc, Lapis Woods, Kavoc
14 – Lake Forwel, Crossroads, Proselyte Encampment, Collector’s Caravan, Lake Forwel
15 – Proselyte Encampment, Iris’ Resting Place, Poto’s Forest
16 – Zeldalia’s house
17 – Poto’s Forest, Iris’ Resting Place, Poto’s Forest
18 – Zeldalia’s house
19 – Poto’s Forest, Paka’s House, Kavoc

Delsus

I’m still at Veola’s shop. >,>

: “Is it fun to visit other towns?”
: “I don’t know if I’d say it was “fun”, but it’s never boring.”
: “You have to watch out for thieves and stuff.”
: “I see . . .”
: “Were you planning on leaving?”
: “I don’t mean to sound rude, but you’re a little small.”
: “Yes, I do lack your strength. It would be dangerous to leave.”
: “. . . . . .”
: “You got outside, though, right?”
: “I’ve considered it . . . But, I do not want to.”
: “The only reason I would leave this shop would be to search for items and books.”
: “Hmm . . . I know how you feel, being an alchemist.”
: “Why don’t I look for items and books for you?”
: “. . . What?”
: “If there’s anything you need, just let me know, okay?”
: “But . . . why?”
: . . . Never mind. Thank you very much.”
: “We’re done here, right? C’mon, let’s get moving!”
: “Hey, whoa . . . what’s the rush?”
: “Let’s just go, jerk! Hurry up!”
: “. . . . . .”

*outside the shop*

: “What’s your problem, Lita!?”
: “Why are you being so nice to her?”
: “Huh? I was only trying to help!”
: “Fine. Let’s just go!”

I do some business elsewhere and come back to Veola’s shop to see if I can’t buy any more Fairy Clothes. We’re witness to that same Stranger from before riding Veola’s butt. Klein gets fed up with the bastard and intervenes. The Stranger makes one more threat about running Veola out of town before running out of the shop.

: “. . . Thank you.”
: “Don’t worry about us, are you going to be okay?”
: “I’ll be fine . . . They’re just empty threats.”
: “He wants to open his own shop here to improve his location and increse profits.”
: “Please don’t tell Mr. Norman . . . I don’t want him to worry.”
: “Okay, we promise. By the way . . . does the Chronolex have anything to do with death?”
: “If you came here to tease me, I’d prefer you just leave.”
: “No, no, I just meant . . . There are similar spells in alchemy.”
: “That’s how I know you’re telling the truth.”
: “. . . . . .”
: “I think I understand . . . I’ll explain the Chronolex when I’m ready.”
: “That you as well, Lita. I appreciate what you did for me.”
: “Oh, no sweat. I didn’t really do it for you–I just hate that guy.”
: “You c ould have just said “you’re welcome”, you know.”

Time to return to base and resume this bad boy of a game. Delsus takes off to take care of some business. Norn is sleepy and Klein tells her it’s okay to take a nap until Delsus returns. Arlin, too, leaves to practice . . . leaving Lita and Klein along together . . .

We follow Arlin to Lapis Woods where he begins practicing his sword. He’s quickly exhausted and Luplus appears beside him, telling him to take it easy. I guess something happened to his body when he defeated Mull. Or when he tried to. Or something.

Back at the base . . . Lita asks Klein why he decided to go to Avenberry. He says he’s tired of being weak and wants to train to become stronger. To show Mull what he’s really made of! LOL

Lita tries to get Klein to admit that that’s not the only reason he has for going to Avenberry but fails because Klein is one dense tard. Arlin returns upon the scene and wonders if he’s not interrupting something. Lita assures him that he’s not and wonders where Delsus could be . . . Arlin remarks on seeing him at hte bar “hours ago”. Time just FLIES in this game. XD Lita wakes up Norn, much to the cat girl’s dismay. Before searching for the lazy bum, I heal up the party, use the Mana Bath, Anvil and save.

: “What the heck is Delsus doing!? I thought he was just running to the bar.”

: “I’m sweepy, meow . . Must . . . stay . . . meow . . . . . . awake . . .”

: “I have to train harder!”

: “Do you think Delsus is really gathering info? I think he just went to the bar . . .”

At the end of the main street is a chef named Oscar standing ready with a potato in one hand, a clever in the other. He’s the fugitive chef, who, for a moment, thought Klein was food and scared the crap out of him. XD Anyway, he’s a “fugitive” in the sense that he’s escaped the harsh confines of the kitchen and embarked on a quest to master the culinary arts. He thinks fate has brought us together and asks for ingredients in return for his cookery skills. (Oscar is another shopkeeper who can synth, but doesn’t have a Review section.)

At the bar, Delsus is with a Fairy who is trying to pick up a chick. The Young Lady isn’t being swept off her feet by the lame lines the Fairy’s trying on her. And Delsus is failing, too. XD Then the two get into an argument after the Young Lady walks away.

When we show up, Delsus has to explain to Lita what we just saw . . . he tries to pass off the Young Lady as an associate of his. XD All the Fairy, Pilke, can think of is Lita and how he wants to “get to know her”. XD Popo appaeats to greet his old friend. Actually, Popo doesn’t know Pilke personally but all fairies know the Mana of Wood. So everybody’s good buddies all around. Delsus is getting bored and is about to leave whel Pilke pipes up about the job offer. Finally.

Pilke says there’s a Puni God in the forest east of Kavoc, and defeating it would get him a Super Puni Ball. He says if he’s hooked up with one of those there’s some serious cash to be made. So now we can travel to the Puni God.

Klein asks Delsus if he’s found any information on how to open Henmil’s Gate. Uh, that would be a resounding . . . no. XD At least now I’m a full party again.

While we’re at the bar, Norman has something to ask of Klein. He’s been getting requests from his regulars to start making fish dishes. Of course, the fish is rotten by the time it takes for it to arrive at Kavoc from the harbour. However, there may be a way to successfully transport it yet. Norman has heard of an interesting story on something called [Frozen Rain], a type of ice that never melts. With it, he could send for fish and transport it without the fish ever going bad. For 500 Cole, he’d like us to track some down.

We run into Rurona again on the back street. She knows Klein by name, which takes him by surprise. She says she found out through everyone, because he’s become THAT popular (for some reason). She lets him know what info she’s gathered about the Flawless Marvel. Long ago, a lengendary alchemist created it all by himself. And, uh, that’s all she knows for now. XD;;;

: “Puni God, huh . . . ? . . . Weird.”

: “I doubt the Super Puni Ball exists.”

: “A Puni God . . . meow . . . ?”

: “Super Puni Ball . . . . . . ridiculous.”

: “The Puni God would have Puni Balls, right? Can I get one, too? Oh, by the way . . . Norman would like to serve Sashimi. He says he could pull it off if he had some Frozen Rain.”

Before going to see the Puni God, I have some business with the Collector’s Caravan and I’m going to go around Iris’ Resting Place, Poto’s Forest and Zeldalia’s for Cole, experience and stuff.

: “What are you doing, Lita?”
: “!!”
: “!?”

*Lita fiddles around*

: “Geez! Don’t scare me like that!”
: “Well, it wasn’t my fault! . . . What are you doing, anyway?”
: “None of your business.”
: “I know you were eating food.”
: “Then why didn’t you just say that?”
: “It looked like you were really enjoying it. I didn’t want to bother you . . .”
: “!!”
: “Just leave me alone for a change!”

*Lita hits Klein*

: “Owww! Why’d you hit me!?”
: “. . . I hope this doesn’t swell.”

Monsters (past the Puni God, near Ka Luda’s Playground): Master Puni, Golden Puni, Invisible Puni, Wolf Leader, Thief, Mercenary

The path to the Puni God is a new path that opened up between the Tower of Airfen and Henmil’s Gate. Halfway between the Puni God and Ka Luda’s Playground is a sign that says “Beware vicious monsters beyond this point. Kavoc Self Defense Force“. Ka Luda’s Playground is at the end of the winding path and while we can freely enter it, I’ll refrain from doing so until the right time comes.

For now we’ll stop at the Puni God, a gigantic Puni, where a journal sits thoughtfully beside the Puni God, making for easy save time.

Until next time!

MANA
Popo (Wood)
Uru (Fire)
Plua (Dark)

MANA ITEMS
Heal Jar
Mana Jar
Ether Bulb
Flame
Bomb Ice
Sleepaid
Herbal Drop

Amis geeks, amis gamers, je vous salue!

Aaah, on va parler de mon magazine de jeux vidéo favoris aujourd’hui: IG mag! J’entends déjà les mauvaises langues qui critiquent déjà car je précise que c’est mon mag préféré…

Eh bien oui! Autant le dire tout de suite, na! ^^

Pourtant, j’aime bien donner le pour et le contre, que ce soit pour un jeu ou autre, vous le savez bien. Mais, j’avoue qu’ici, le contre risque d’être difficile….. #FAIL

C’est sur le site, bien connu, Gameblog.fr que j’ai vu la première annonce de lancement d’un certain In-Game magazine, un bimestriel de jeux vidéo parlant de tout même de retrogaming. J’enrageais déjà de ne pas pouvoir le trouver en Belgique… Forcément, ce fut le cas, du moins, dans mon coin paumé! -_-’ Il a donc fallu que je me retrouve en vacances dans le sud de la France pour trouver mon premier IG mag, qui fut le #2… Oui, c’était en mai/juin… Et avec les monstres de Dragon Quest sur la cover, ça ne pouvait que me plaire (Akira Toriyama powa!!!).

Mais même si la couverture est attirante, c’est l’intérieur qui compte! Et je ne serai pas déçu: critiques, économie, people, culture, rétro (i love) et geek zone… tout y est! Et surtout… aucune pub chiante qui gâche tout… surtout du papier, protégeons la planète!!!

Bon, et si on ouvrait le livre maintenant…

Première page: l’édito (par Ruth Steen). On sent qu’on est chez des connaisseurs et passionnés du jeux vidéo, pas comme dans certains magazines où ils croient que tout est parti de la Playstation et qu’avant ça, il n’y avait rien… Si si, ça existe, je vous assure! xD

Ce qui est bien aussi avec IG mag, c’est qu’ils ne connaissent pas la langue de bois. Tout est dit comme il doit être dit (gné!?)…

Après l’édito, on passe directement au chaud: les critiques (hahahahahaaaa *rire démoniaque*)… Euh… oui… bon! >_<

Actualité (jeux du moment), rencontre (développeurs, éditeurs,…), rétrospective (retour aux sources de certaines séries), analyse (d’un genre de jeu), internet (jeux flash, etc…), téléphone (les mobiles aussi on droit à leur jeux): tous les jeux sont passés au crible et bien fait en plus, avec humour parfois… sauf quand c’est un jeu trop triste! )

Après ça, on retrouve la rubrique “Economie”… La totale du monde à sousous du jeux avec des interviews, dossiers, etc… Bien foutu également. Suit, la catégorie “People”, et non, ce n’est pas des peoples qui jouent à la console, ne commencez pas! Ce sont les peoples du game-universe (c’est beau ça…).

Les trois dernières catégories sont… *roulement de tambour*… Culture, rétro et geek zone!

Tout d’abord, la culture, c’est très bon pour le Trivial Pursuit…. Ah non, juste! Y a pas ce genre de questions là-dedans… dommage!

Bref, ici, on “parle” d’évênements, d’univers de jeux, on se pose des questions et il y a du gros dossiers également.

Et comme le meilleur reste toujours pour la fin, nous arrivons chez les vieux de la vieille (comme moi quoi): le retrogaming!

Mon moment préféré du livre… Des époques, des jeux, des générations, des consoles, les débuts du pixels… Des premières années à il y a peu en passant par l’âge d’or du jeux vidéo et la gueguerre SEGA VS Nintendo… Que de bons souvenirs! Voir des NEO GEO, bornes d’arcade, Sega Mark III, etc… dans un magazine, c’est plutôt rare! (oui mais la Playstation… chuuut! xD)

On en apprend énormément sur des séries, des éditeurs, des genres et autres… C’est fou! Le travail de recherche est énorme et doit être passionnant… et crevant! O_o

Le dernier chapître si je puis dire, c’est la Geek Zone! Et là, c’est cool aussi… On y trouve des charts, un geektionnaire pour les non-geekophones (oula…), des petites BD/strips bien marrant(e)s… dont j’ai retenu surtout le fameux de Street Fighter (Are You Ken!?)…, des charts et bien d’autres choses que regorge ce petit livre (je ne vais pas tout dévoiller…).

Après avoir dévoré ce volume 2, bien entendu, j’ai cherché à avoir le #1… Je ne l’ai jamais trouvé en Belgique mais un jour, coup de bol, je trouve quand même le #3 dans une petite librairie. Ô joie, ô bonheur! D’ailleurs, plus tard j’y trouverai le #4… mais pas le #1 et la libraire n’a rien pu faire… :’( J’ai cherché partout mais en vain… Il me le faut absolument pourtant… C’est bien la preuve aussi que j’ai apprécié les autres IG mag également.

Heureusement, sur le réseau Twitter, une bonne âme française (@Garretsworld) a eu la gentillesse de me faire don de son magazine pour me permettre de complèter ma collection. Ouf!

En conclusion, je suis devenu fan de ce magazine. Déjà, il est beau, cartonné, on a envie de le collectionner et le contenu est très riche. Je dirais sans problème que c’est LE magazine de jeux vidéo du moment et j’espère, pour longtemps. Car même si le net à pris une part importante au niveau de l’information, c’est toujours agréable d’avoir un petit livre à lire dans un coin tranquille…

Ce qui est sympa aussi dans ce livre c’est qu’il est bien illustré, avec des personnages en pixel ou en BD/manga un peu partout, ça donne vraiment une touche agréable. Je ne saurai que trop vous le conseiller. Croyez-moi, même si vous avez internet, ce magazine trouvera place chez vous. Pour une fois qu’on a un mag fait par des gamers pour des gamers, il faut en profiter!!!

Merci à Ruth Steen de IG mag de m’avoir permis la publication de ses illustrations.

Retrouvez InGame magazine sur son forum officiel sur GameBlog.fr

OtaGeek souhaite une bonne continuation à IG magazine…

Et merci à vous, lecteurs, de me lire…

Ps: Encore merci à Garretsworld!

Avis à la population! ^^

Cette semaine, OtaGeek vous propose un article complet spécial “IG magazine – L’esprit du jeux vidéo”, le magazine de vidéoludique du moment.

Au programme: retrogaming, actu, tests, geekzone, etc… passé au peigne fin…

Ne courez pas trop loin et restez online car vous allez encore enrichir votre bibliothèque!

Illustration et bannière de Ruth Steen (Flickr) de et pour IG mag

Cette aprem’ avait lieu la sixièle édition du Loft’in Game au Studio SFR à Paris. Comme je vous en parlais dans un précédent billet, j’ai jamais participé à un Loft’in Game et je dois dire que c’était vraiment sympa. Déjà d’une parce que j’ai pu y voir @artificier (le rédacteur en chef de Paroles Vaines) et aussi parce que j’ai pu tester DJ Hero qui est juste énorme. Au niveau des jeux présents sur place (en plus de DJ Hero donc), il y avait Saw qui, sans révolutionner le jeu vidéo, est sympa sans plus, une ribambelle de jeux Wii inintéressants, PES 2010, des PSP Go, un jeu de sport d’hiver sur 360 qui avait une animation à en faire vomir son écran HD et des jeux sur téléphone mobile (et aucun sur iPhone…)

La rédac de Gameblog était présente, j’ai pu apercevoir JulienC et probablement d’autres membres de la rédac. L’ambiance était sympa, dommage que les deux heures soient passées très vite mais c’est le signe que c’était sympa, à refaire sans hésitation.

Pour relancer la “bête”, je vous proposerai très bientôt deux dossiers…

Sur une BD: Les Geeks; ainsi que sur un magazine de jeux vidéo: IG mag.

Restez online pour le retour du site!

11 – Kavoc, Sewer, Kavoc, Sewer, Lake Forwel
12 – Kavoc, Outdoor Theatre, Lake Forwel
13 – Kavoc, Lapis Woods, Kavoc
14 – Lake Forwel, Crossroads, Proselyte Encampment, Collector’s Caravan, Lake Forwel
15 – Proselyte Encampment, Iris’ Resting Place, Poto’s Forest
16 – Zeldalia’s house
17 – Poto’s Forest, Iris’ Resting Place, Poto’s Forest
18 – Zeldalia’s house

Delsus

We start out trek back to Kavoc, going through Poto’s Forest. At the entrance back into Iris’ Resting Place something swirly and black appears overhead. It gets bigger and we’re sucked into it!

The blackish, swirly thing transports us to a house in the middle of a void or something. The Fairy here is surprised to see humans in his house. His name is Paka and he’s a self-employed smithy. Klein wonders how they came to be here, and Paka says sometimes his house appears in different worlds. Happens all the time, nothing to be worried over. Popo appears beside Paka, sensing that they’re now in the Mana world.

With nothing to do, Paka insists on teaching Klein some of his smithing techniques. With his knowledge, we’ll know how to level up our weapons. The scene fades to black as a pop-up window tells me that “The Blacksmith training wears on for 3 days and 3 nights”. Everyone is dozing in one of Paka’s rooms during all this time, and, finally Klein returns to the group, having successfully learned all Paka can teach him. The Fairy gives us a forge so we can smith back at the base. That means it’s tutorial time once again!

This one is called . . . well, it doesn’t actually have a title, and Popo gets right into dissecting the topic “What is weapon synthesis?” with special guest instructor Paka! (who looks EXACTLY the same as Popo . . . only with a different voice)

you can then apply the crystal’s effect to your equipment

Pattet lives with Paka and has set up a shop here. He sells regular shop items to different Mana Stones to equipment. Very handy. There’s quite a few items to pick up around the floor of the house, too. Mostly Mana Stones. We can leave via the transporter at the edge of the house, and it conveniently drops us off at Kavoc! The guys are a little slow not to recognize where they are . . . >,>

Nothing has changed around town, except there’s a sign by Hagel’s weapon shop that says [Pattote's street kiosk] . . . but there is no kiosk to be found and no way to get back to Paka and Pattote’s place from here. At least, not yet. I don’t know if that’ll change later. (Also, if you haven’t noticed already, names are sometimes misspelled. Pattet/Pattote hasn’t been the first name to get messed up. This isn’t the tightest of translations, let me tell you.) Anyway, while I’m here I buy a new weapon for Arlin.

We run into Yach on the back roa, who asks Klein if he could teach him some alchemy. Klein reluctantly agrees and hands him the Magic in 7 Days book . . . Yach finishes reading it lickety-split and runs off to pratice. (This is one of the many, many sidequests. Each book you find, four in all, you’ll bring to Veola to make new synth recipes and Yach for a reward at the end. At least, there better be a reward from that brat at the end.

Blue Claws Smalltime Hero RIP GRWLN 7 NEXT RANK 2

Norman notices us and asks if we wouldn’t try out a rice bowl he’s made that, if good, he’d like to put on his menu.

: “That’d be great! I love rice, especially with stuff on top!”
: “This fried stuff is good. What is it?”
: “Oh, that’s just Sweet Lando.”
: “. . . . . .”
: “. . . !!!”
: “Mmmm . . . Sweet Lando . . . *drools*”
: “It doesn’t just make good juice, it’s great with rice, too!”
: “Sweet Lando? Gack . . . I don’t even want to think about it.”
: “Oh, that’s right. Delsus hates sweets. What about the rest of you? Like it?”
: “I’d say it was pretty good if I didn’t know it was Lando on top.”
: “Don’t expect me to touch it!”
: “It’s super yummers, meow.”
: “When are you going to add the [Sweet Lando Bowl] to the menu?”
: “Sweet Lando Bowl? Oh, no. I have a much better name: [Jaja Bowl].”
: “What the heck does “Jaja” mean? My name was a lot better!”
: “Well, when Lando is frying, it makes a sound like “jaja”, see? That’s why.”
: “I still like Sweet Lando Bowl better.”
: “At least Norman’s name has a nice ring to it.”
: “Anyway, if you guys like it, I’m sure everyone will. I’ll add it right away.”

Norman’s tavern:
Interested in the store:	278 people
This store looks good:	76%
The season’s hot item:	Lando Sour
The reason:	unique scent

: “I’m really proud of this one . . . I think I’m tearing up.”
: “This isn’t emotion, meow . . . It’s too spicy!”
: “Ha ha ha! Sounds perfect for me!”
: “Let’s see here . . . Hmm . . . *burns up*”
: “Wooooooohoooo! Fantastic! I feel like I’ve transcended mere taste-tasting!”
: “Sounds good to me. We’ll call it [Astral Saute].”

Norman’s tavern:
Interested in the store:	296 people
This store looks good:	75%
The season’s hot item:	Lando Sour
The reason:	unique scent

: “This is a [Jaja Bowl].”
: “Huh . . . I can’t believe you made that out of [Sweet Lando].”
: “I can’t believe you called it the [Jaja Bowl].”
: “Oh, get over it.“

Norman’s tavern:
Interested in the store:	333 people
This store looks good:	79%
The season’s hot item:	Lando Sour
The reason:	unique scent

Right after going to see Norman, I stop by Veola’s magic shop to synth what I can.

: “This is a [Pendelook].”
: “These might vary in size but they always have the same effect.”
: “They’re formed from the tears of the dead. . . . So, the more sad the corpse, the larger the pendelook.”
: “I hope that when I die, my pendelook is beautiful.”
: “Don’t talk like that!”
: “. . . You’re right. I shouldn’t reveal that to others.”

Veola’s magic shop:
Interested in the store:	155 people
This store looks good:	49%
The season’s hot item:	Blue Bull
The reason:	deadly odour

: “I made some [Fairy Clothes].”
: “Wow, nice sewing job.”
: “Why, thank you.”
: “But, your fashion sense could still use some help.”

Veola’s magic shop:
Interested in the store:	177 people
This store looks good:	51%
The season’s hot item:	Blue Bull
The reason:	deadly odour

: “The [Gogo Suit] is ready.”
: “This is the pinnacle of cool. You’d be super popular in it.”
: “. . . . . .”
: “Is there a reason you’re so outdated?”
: “. . . What do you mean?”
: “If I wore that outside, I’d be laughed right out of town!”
: “. . . I see.“

Veola’s magic shop:
Interested in the store:	206 people
This store looks good:	55%
The season’s hot item:	Blue Bull
The reason:	deadly odour

: “Oh, right. I brought you something.”
: “You asked for books, right? Here you go.”
: “‘Magic in 7 Days’ . . .”
: “It’s for beginners, so that’s probably ideal for you.”
: “That wasn’t nice, Lita.”
: “. . . . . .”
: “I do not want it.”
: “. . . . . .”
: “Look, we dragged this all the way back here for you!”
: “I said I do not want it.”
: “It’s heavy! I could ahve thrown it at someone’s head! Take it!”
: “. . . . . .”
: “That’s enough, Lita!”
: “I’m sorry, Veola. She’s not really a bad person . . .”
: “I’m sure we’ll bring a better book next time.”
: “I’ll leave this one here, even if you don’t need it. It’s pretty heavy, and I’m tired of carrying it.”
: “We’ll see you later.”

*Klein and Lita leave the shop*

: “. . . . . .”
: “He is . . . too kind.”

I go right back into the magic shop to finish synthing stuff.

: “Hmm . . . These don’t look much like Fairy Clothes anymore . . .”
: “Wh-what is that?”
: “Is that a bathing suit?”
: “I guess it could be! I’ll call it the [Blue Swimsuit].”
: “Seems appropriate.”
: “I think it might look good on you, Lita.”
: “What’s that supposed to mean? I don’t like it at all.”
: “You don’t have to like a swimsuit for it to look good on you.”
: “. . . . . .”
: “Heh, if you say so.”
: “Of course. It’s all in your skeletal and muscular structures.”
: “Your especially curvy figure and small breasts make swimsuit like this ideal for you.”
: “. . . . . .”
: “Ex . . . cuse me!?”
: “Did you say small breasts . . . ?“
: “Why are you so upset? It’s the truth.”
: “You’re still attractive–just ask Klein.”
: “Wha–me!? Er . . . um . . . I guess . . .”

*Lita strikes Klein*

: “. . . Klein, you big jerk!”

*Lita runs out*

: “L-Lita, wait!”
: “. . . . . . ?”

Going back to the base resumes the story, so I make a quick stop at Lake Forwel to Camp. While I’m there, I see what Gemlis has to seel and he suddenly asks if there’s a bar in Kavoc. He asks kindly if we have any of the Wild Moss Tavern’s Ale, and of course we do. As a trade, he gives me a [Joker Fish]. (Giving Ale to Gemlis can be done repeatedly.)

I return to Kavoc to resume synthing at Veola’s magic shop.

: “Hi, Lita.”
: “You look tired. What’s the deal?”
: “None of your business.”
: “However, I was thinking of how you said I didn’t have fashion sense.”
: “Which time?”
: “. . . . . .”
: “Since then, I’ve begun studying fashion design.”
: “I can create much nicer clothes than before.”
: “I’ve learned what’s popular with teenagers, and I’ve built my new line around that.”
: “. . . So, you’ve studied fashion now?”
: “Yes, and that knowledge guarantees I’ll be in high demand.”
: “I doubt you’ve improved THAT much.”
: “I suppose you’ll see for yourself then, won’t you?”

With all that girl-talk out of the way, I can get on to making stuff.

: “Here’s my latest. [Bunn--"
: "It's sooooo cute!!"
: "Going a little overboard don't you think?"
: "I forgot how much Lita enjoys cute things"
: "You might as well put it on, then."
: "What!? . . . Sure it's cute, but I could never wear it out in public!"
: "How insecure . . ."

Veola's magic shop:
Interested in the store:	314 people
This store looks good:	59%
The season's hot item:	Blue Bull
The reason:	deadly odour

: "I'd like to apologize for last time."
: "What do you have to apologize for?"
: "It turns out . . . The book is quite useful."
: "See! I told you!"
: "However, I maintain that the argument was Lita's fault."
: "My fault!?"
: "I'm just glad you could use the book."
: ". . . I could."
: ". . . . . ."
: "Um . . ."
: ". . . ?"
: "This is for you."

She gives Klein three [Bomb]s.

: “Are you sure?”
: “Yes, please take them.”
: “C’mon, Klein!”
: “Okay, yeah . . . Thank you.”
: “You’re welcome.”

More recipes have been added. Back to synthing!

: “Would you guys like [Liquid Emptiness]?”
: “This substance will erase anything you want on a piece of paper.”
: “That might come in handy.”
: “So I can write whatever I want . . . and erase it whenever I want?”
: “Correct. However . . .”
: “If the paper you used is thin enough, you can still read the writing through the back.”
: “What!? Then what’s the point of using this at all?”
: “Just don’t write anything you’d regret.”

Veola’s magic shop:
Interested in the store:	338 people
This store looks good:	52%
The season’s hot item:	Fairy Clothes
The reason:	sweet and sour

: “Your [Comet Jewel] is ready. It’s often called the king of jewels.”
: “It’s beautiful!”
: “You’d better enjoy it . . . My arm’s sore from carving it.”
: “You wouldn’t believe how hard it is to round a stone like that.”
: “Maybe you should just exercise more often.”
: “Well, maybe you should create the item next time! You couldn’t handle it.”
: “You’re just jealous.”
: “Oh, please . . .”

Veola’s magic shop:
Interested in the store:	345 people
This store looks good:	52%
The season’s hot item:	Fairy Clothes
The reason:	sweet and sour

: “The [Metal Pipe]’s ready.”
: “It’s just an ordinary pipe.”
: “Hollowing out a solid metal rod is a fairly difficult task.”
: “However . . . if we alter the ingredients slightly, I could make something useful.”

Veola’s magic shop:
Interested in the store:	357 people
This store looks good:	53%
The season’s hot item:	Fairy Clothes
The reason:	sweet and sour

: “[StretchyStretchy] is ready.”
: “Another strange name, as usual. What’s this loop for, anyway?”
: “It’s remarkably elastic. Here Lita, hold this end.”
: “Like this?”
: “Yes. Hold on tight!”

*stretches the StretchyStretchy*

: “See how far it stretches?”
: “Hey, that’s pretty cool!”

*Lita takes a couple steps back, stretching it out even more*

: “And now, I release it.”

*the StretchyStretchy snaps Lita HARD*

: “Ouch!! What the heck!?”
: “Now use it responsibly. You should never do that to a friend.”
: “Ooooh . . . I’ll get you for that!”
: “Think of it as a prank.”
: “A prank!? We’ll see how you feel after I “prank” you!”
: “That looked really painful . . .“

Veola’s magic shop:
Interested in the store:	385 people
This store looks good:	55%
The season’s hot item:	Fairy Clothes
The reason:	sweet and sour

Until next time!

]]> http://sonofageek.wordpress.com/2009/10/09/loftin-game-saison-6/ Fri, 09 Oct 2009 11:30:18 +0000 Gixel http://sonofageek.wordpress.com/2009/10/09/loftin-game-saison-6/

La sixième édition du Loft’in Game ouvrira ses portes le samedi 24 octobre de 10:00 à 20:00. Je n’ai jamais participé à un Loft’in Game mais concrètement, il s’agit de réunir des gens dans un loft truffé de caméras pour les observer végéter afin de pouvoir tester quelques nouveautés vidéoludiques. Dans la liste des jeux, je retiendrais Saw car je me demande bien comment ils peuvent retranscrire l’ambiance malsaine du film avec un pad (en espérant que Jigsaw alias Slappy le pantin de Chair de Poule version 18+ soit bien modélisé).

La particularité du Loft’in Game est qu’il a lieu une fois par an et à chaque fois dans un lieu différent ce qui évite les redites et les habitués des moindres coins et recoins. Le loft fonctionne par sessions de deux heures et moi je serais à celle de 14:00. On verra bien ce que ça va donner mais ça peut être sympa.

]]> http://valigarmanda.wordpress.com/2009/09/30/the-7th-saga-recorded-playthrough-7/ Wed, 30 Sep 2009 19:54:01 +0000 valigarmanda http://valigarmanda.wordpress.com/2009/09/30/the-7th-saga-recorded-playthrough-7/

]]> http://valigarmanda.wordpress.com/2009/09/30/the-7th-saga-recorded-playthrough-5-6/ Wed, 30 Sep 2009 18:30:17 +0000 valigarmanda http://valigarmanda.wordpress.com/2009/09/30/the-7th-saga-recorded-playthrough-5-6/

]]> http://bloggergamers.wordpress.com/2009/09/18/ya-existen-5-analisis-sobre-uncharted-2-uno-de-ellos-es-de-ign-y-esta-en-video/ Fri, 18 Sep 2009 23:44:20 +0000 Miguel Alejandro Morales Goncalves http://bloggergamers.wordpress.com/2009/09/18/ya-existen-5-analisis-sobre-uncharted-2-uno-de-ellos-es-de-ign-y-esta-en-video/ http://valigarmanda.wordpress.com/2009/09/16/activision-atari-intellivision-%e2%99%a5%e2%99%a5%e2%99%a5-12/ Wed, 16 Sep 2009 03:07:47 +0000 valigarmanda http://valigarmanda.wordpress.com/2009/09/16/activision-atari-intellivision-%e2%99%a5%e2%99%a5%e2%99%a5-12/

PART THREE: Activision Classics
Activision Anthology

About Activision on Playstation
About Activision on Playstation 2

Ice Hockey
(1981, 1-2P)

Graphics – 3/5
Sound – 2/5
Control – 3/5
Playability – 3/5
Overall – 2.75

Player is the blue team, computer/second player is the yellow team. There are two levels of difficulty. Regular action and HIGHSPEED ACTION. There’s only two people per team, the goalie and the other guy. The closer the hockey puck gets to the goalie, say, then you’re in control of him. If the puck gets closer to the other guy, then you’ll be controlling him. There’s no way to switch between the two. Also, the computer is a stinking, cheating bastard

Sadly, the commercial is the best part of this game. PHIL HARTMAN FTW! ♥

MY SCORE: I forget the exact score; it was something like 7 – 10 (yeah, I lost ;_;)

Unlockables: 2 (Ice Hockey commercial, All-Star Hockey Team Patch)

]]> http://valigarmanda.wordpress.com/2009/09/16/activision-atari-intellivision-%e2%99%a5%e2%99%a5%e2%99%a5-11/ Wed, 16 Sep 2009 02:53:13 +0000 valigarmanda http://valigarmanda.wordpress.com/2009/09/16/activision-atari-intellivision-%e2%99%a5%e2%99%a5%e2%99%a5-11/

PART THREE: Activision Classics
Activision Anthology

About Activision on Playstation
About Activision on Playstation 2

Freeway
(1981, 1-2P)

Graphics – 3/5
Sound – 4/5
Control – 3/5
Playability – 2/5
Overall – 3

HEY! WHY DID THE CHICKEN CROSS THE ROAD, GUYS? Because this game was made. :p

There are eight games, each a different level of difficulty. Each game is also a different locale at a different time of day. Example: Game 1: Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, 3AM.

Plays almost exactly like Frogger, except you’re not trying to hop across lily pads and logs at the other side of the road. Avoid the oncoming traffic as you cross the freeway as many times as possible in the amount of time given, that’s all there is to it. If you’re struck, you’re knocked back a line or right back to the curb, depending on which game you’re playing.

MY SCORE (Game 1): 25 points, no hits
My SCORE (Game 3): 10 points, I forget

Unlockables: 2 (Freeway commercial, Save the Chicken Foundation Patch)

]]> http://valigarmanda.wordpress.com/2009/09/13/activision-atari-intellivision-%e2%99%a5%e2%99%a5%e2%99%a5-10/ Sun, 13 Sep 2009 08:34:54 +0000 valigarmanda http://valigarmanda.wordpress.com/2009/09/13/activision-atari-intellivision-%e2%99%a5%e2%99%a5%e2%99%a5-10/

PART THREE: Activision Classics
Activision Anthology

About Activision on Playstation
About Activision on Playstation 2

Skiing
(1980, 1P)

Graphics – 3/5
Sound – 3/5
Control – 5/5
Playability – 4/5
Overall – 3.75

Okay, so skiing. I don’t think I have to explain the concept of skiing to anyone.

There are five levels of difficulty for the Slalom Run and five for the Downhill Run. The Slalom Runs have you pass through a number of gates in as little time as possible. The Downhill Runs have you going down as many meters of snowy hill in as little time as possible (200m, 300m, 500m, etc.).

During the Downhill Runs you can jump over obstacles.

MY SCORE (Slalom Run): 00:40
My SCORE (Downhill Run): 00:35

Unlockables: 2 (Skiing commercial, Official Activision Ski Team Patch)

]]> http://valigarmanda.wordpress.com/2009/09/13/activision-atari-intellivision-%e2%99%a5%e2%99%a5%e2%99%a5-9/ Sun, 13 Sep 2009 08:31:17 +0000 valigarmanda http://valigarmanda.wordpress.com/2009/09/13/activision-atari-intellivision-%e2%99%a5%e2%99%a5%e2%99%a5-9/

PART THREE: Activision Classics
Activision Anthology

About Activision on Playstation
About Activision on Playstation 2

♥ Fishing Derby
(1980, 1-2P)

Graphics – 5/5
Sound – 3/5
Control – 2/5
Playability – 4/5
Overall – 3.5

Two hillbillies sitting opposite each other at the local watering hole. Trying to catch more fish than the other. A RIVALRY THAT HAS LASTED FOR OVER THIRTY-FIVE YEARS. Also, the local watering hole is not that wide, really deep and has a shark for some reason.

Anyway. The point of the game is to hook more fish than the other player. The shark is an extremely annoying obstacle that will eat the fish on your line if said-fish touches ANY PART of the shark.

This would be an instant favourite if it weren’t so damn hard to nab the fish. The end of the line has to touch the mouth of the fish JUST RIGHT. And that asshat computer AI gets all the bottom feeders with ease and doesn’t get chomped by the shark nearly enough. (I still give this a ♥ because I like the story I made up for the game, and it would be really fun with another live player and not the CHEATING AI.) Also, each line of fish are worth different points. The fish near the surface are less points, bottom feeders are the most. Whoever catches 99lbs of fish first is the winner.

MY SCORE: 99 – 86

Unlockables: 1 (Gameplay Mode: Distortion)

]]> http://valigarmanda.wordpress.com/2009/09/13/activision-atari-intellivision-%e2%99%a5%e2%99%a5%e2%99%a5-8/ Sun, 13 Sep 2009 08:30:14 +0000 valigarmanda http://valigarmanda.wordpress.com/2009/09/13/activision-atari-intellivision-%e2%99%a5%e2%99%a5%e2%99%a5-8/

PART THREE: Activision Classics
Activision Anthology

About Activision on Playstation
About Activision on Playstation 2

Dragster
(1980, 1-2P)

Graphics – 2/5
Sound – 2/5
Control – 1/5
Playability – 1/5
Overall – 1.5

There are two games to select from, the second one being the harder game because there is more to do, control-wise. I’m sticking with Game #1 since that’ll be hard enough.

The screen is split across the middle. Car 1 (the player) is on the top, car 2 (computer or second player) is on the bottom. I have NO CLUE how to get out of Neutral to actually start the race. >,> I’ve even read the instructions and still don’t understand.

Boo.

(Had to check Gamefaqs for the Unlockable. You simply have to reset the game twenty times, either by winning or blowing the engine. GUESS WHAT I DID TWENTY TIMES? XD;;)

MY SCORE: N/A

Unlockables: 1 (World Class Dragster Club Patch)

]]> http://valigarmanda.wordpress.com/2009/09/05/atelier-iris-eternal-mana-gameblog-18/ Sat, 05 Sep 2009 07:20:22 +0000 valigarmanda http://valigarmanda.wordpress.com/2009/09/05/atelier-iris-eternal-mana-gameblog-18/

11 – Kavoc, Sewer, Kavoc, Sewer, Lake Forwel
12 – Kavoc, Outdoor Theatre, Lake Forwel
13 – Kavoc, Lapis Woods, Kavoc
14 – Lake Forwel, Crossroads, Proselyte Encampment, Collector’s Caravan, Lake Forwel
15 – Proselyte Encampment, Iris’ Resting Place, Poto’s Forest
16 – Zeldalia’s house
17 – Poto’s Forest, Iris’ Resting Place, Poto’s Forest

Veola

Zeldalia knows the situation as soon as we walk into her house. She also knows just what to do, thankfully. It’s time Lita had a bath. Zeldalia brings out a stasis tube-like contraption on the second floor where Lita, stripped nekkid, steps into and begins her “bath”. She feels better almost immediately.

While she’s doing that, Zeldalia explains to the rest of the party (on the first floor, giving Lita some privacy) that Lita’s body needs Mana to function. The warm water is helping her recharge.

A pop-up window let’s me know that I can now use teh [Mana Bath] at the base. And we also receive [Mana Protection], whatever that is. To help us understand, hopefully, it’s tutorial time! There’s two, and the first one is called Popo’s Fourth-Wall Lecture 801: MP means Mana Protection! addressing the question “What is a Mana Bath?” Popo welcomes the guest speaker of the day, Zeldalia!

• this is the only way to temporarily replenish a being’s energy by using Mana
• with the Ruby Prism stolen, the Mana in Lita’s body is unstable
• if Lita is active for too long, she’ll lose Mana and her fighting ability will decline
• when Lita is tired, her wings appear (the larger the wings, the worse her condition)
• to replensih Lita’s Mana, go to your base and use the Mana Bath (using the ‘X’ button)
• you’ll need to choose which Manan to recharge Lita’s energy (you can select up to two, if you want)
• the Mana will use items to revive Lita (so you’ll need items to use before you can recharge her energy
• a Mana’s stamina will be in use, as well, and two Mana are always better than using just one

The second tutorial is called the same, concerning the topic of “Mana Protection”. Popo and Zeldalia come back on screen to resume.

• first, you need to equip a Mana
• you can equip a Mana with Mana Protection
• by having protection, Lita’s energy won’t drop as quickly
• the benefit of Mana Protection is a character’s growth will be enhanced by the Mana they have equipped
• certain skills may also be enhanced, depending on the Mana’s specialities and you will receive bonus stats!

The two wrap up the lecture, and just as Zeldalia is about to walk off-screen, she collapses when her hip starts acting up. XD

Now that that’s all cleared up . . . Zeldalia makes sure it’s clear to us that the Mana Bath is only a temporary solution. We need to get Lita’s Ruby Prism back. Otherwise, Lita won’t have much time . . . Even if we do, though, Delsus can’t imagine that the rock will do any good, since it was cracked all to hell. Then Arlin suddenly appears, telling us there’s no way we can defeat Mull . . . Klein says we must, so Arlin asks that he try to best him in a fight, then maybe Klein will understand . . .

We’re taken outside to that mystical spot . . .

Afterwards, Arlin says if Klein can’t ever defeat him, there’s no change to ever defeat Mull. Zeldalia asks why in the world Klein used physical attacks, since an alchemist has better tools at his disposal. Since he figured out the secret of Iris’ Resting Place, Zeldalia knows Klein is far stronger than he was just now . . . (except it’s like pure luck that he found two other Mana to learn the secret of Iris’ Resting Place and that had nothing to do with fighting or strength anyway . . . witch be on crack or something)

Klein recalls his few precious memories with Lita . . . and decides that he’ll go to Avenberry and create another Ruby Prism himself. Meanwhile, while everyone is talking, Lita has come out to the mystical spot and has overheard a good chunk of what’s been said. She makes herself known by asking Klein what he’s talking about . . . then he vows to surpass Mull. Delsus thinks it all sounds interesting enough so he’ll still tag along. He’s pretty keen on all that rumoured treasure in Avenberry . . . Of course, Norn wants to come along and help, too. And since he has business in Avenberry, Arlin decides to join the group. (Delsus says that’s perfect; Arlin can take his spot in battle. WHAT A LAZY BUM I &HEARTS; DELSUS SO MUCH)

Zeldalia suggests they all get a full night’s sleep before going off on their journey, back at her house. The next day . . . Delsus says we’ll first have to figure out how to get past Henmil’s Gate to even start to reach Avenberry. Klein recalls what he read engraved on the stone gate . . . Delsus thinks there surely must be someone back in Kavoc who knows what all that mirror business is about, so that’s where we’ll start.

I’m surprised that Arlin starts at such a low level . . . he’ll replace Lita until he catches up. I equip the ones going into regular battles with Mana; Klein with Plua, Norn with Popo and Arlin with Uru. Until next time!

: “We’ve gotta open Henmil’s Gate. We need to sit down and discuss this!”

: “Two mirrors . . .? Let’s think about it at home.”

: “Two mirrors . . . I bet someone in Kavoc knows.”

: “Kavoc is a good place for information. I will go there.”

SAVE
Klein Kiesling	Lita Blanchimont	Delsus	Norn	Arlin
Lv 30	Lv 30	Lv 30	Lv 23	Lv 15
Poto’s Forest	Play Time 40:11	17,846 Cole

MANA
Popo (Wood)
Uru (Fire)
Plua (Dark)

MANA ITEMS
Heal Jar
Mana Jar
Ether Bulb
Flame
Bomb Ice
Sleepaid
Herbal Drop

]]> http://valigarmanda.wordpress.com/2009/09/05/atelier-iris-eternal-mana-gameblog-17/ Sat, 05 Sep 2009 07:18:13 +0000 valigarmanda http://valigarmanda.wordpress.com/2009/09/05/atelier-iris-eternal-mana-gameblog-17/

11 – Kavoc, Sewer, Kavoc, Sewer, Lake Forwel
12 – Kavoc, Outdoor Theatre, Lake Forwel
13 – Kavoc, Lapis Woods, Kavoc
14 – Lake Forwel, Crossroads, Proselyte Encampment, Collector’s Caravan, Lake Forwel
15 – Proselyte Encampment, Iris’ Resting Place, Poto’s Forest
16 – Zeldalia’s house

Veola

Before going back to Iris’ Resting Place, there’s a bit of Poto’s Forest left to explore. First battle I’m hit with and a pop-up window tells me that since I have four members in my party, I can use the [Change] command. This option lets you replace members during battle, alive or KO’d, kind of like Final Fantasy X. And much like FFX, changing members does not use up my current turn! Yay!

I should also point out that those characters not in battle still get a small chunk of experience! Double yay!

Back to game. From the entrance (or exit, depending on how you look at it) of Iris’ Resting Place, there’s a split in the path, remember? The left path goes north to another area where two signs read [Animal Path] and more items and treasure are found. I think this must be the actual entrance to Poto’s Forest because another sign says [Caution: Witch in forest) and I think it leads to the outside but Delsus won't let us leave right now . . .

FINALLY I meet a Ware Cat in battle. She approaches Norn in curiousity. The Ware Cat claims Norn is just like her, but Norn insists she's not a cat . . . but the Ware Cat is convinced Norn and and she are alike and now are best friends. These creatures will want to do something for Norn whenever we meet one in battle, and the favours are:

So long
Give me something
Do something

I choose for it to give me something. Norn says she's hungry so the Ware Cat gives her its "best food", a [Bavarian Banana]! (This is a pretty regular item used for synthesis, and I can get more if I use Norn’s ‘Turn 2 Candy’ spell on certain enemies.) Then the Ware Cat leaves.

And that’s how a battle with a Ware Cat plays out.

After a long run in Poto’s Forest (gathering items, leveling up) I’m back inside Iris’ Resting Place. Before checking out those pedestals, I use the Camp at the Fairy’s Furnace. Once I’m standing before the pedestals, Popo appears and jumps up onto the middle one, eager to help out (and see what happens). A blue light engulfs him, and he says it’s “warm up here”. Uru is next to join in, then Plua. They all feel nice and warm up on the pedestals. Suddenly, all the lamps and torches around the ruins light up and that blue force blocking that door near the exit disappears.

(This is why Zeldalia couldn’t do anything when she tried this, herself. Because three Mana were needed.)

Unfortunately, upon inspecting that door, it’s still locked up tight. Norn swears that she can hear something over here. When Lita investigates the door, there’s a bright flash of light that takes everyone by surprise and Klein and Lita disappear, leaving Delsus and Norn outside the door . . .

Klein and Lita are transported to a room that looks somehow familiar to her . . . Mana flows visibly and strange equipment floats in the air. Suddenly a mechanism in the centre of the room activates and a hologram of a woman who looks just like Lita with wings appears . . . Lita turns away, clasping her ears and clenching her eyes shut. She doesn’t want to remember something . . . Klein looks around and spots a diary of . . . Iris Blanchimont.

July 2nd
The artificial life is maturing steadily. I still can’t fix the lifespan issue. They always die within ten years. If I could strengthen their hearts, it would solve the problem.

September 14th
I completed the experiment at Avenberry’s Atelier. The Ruby Prism is functioning well. This should greatly increase their lifespan. I will consider the artificial life project a success.
After Klein reads all that, Lita has no choice but to accept and come clean with that she is. She asks that Klein not tell the others . . . She can’t believe she’s got “Mr. Alchemist in Training” feeling sorry for her then she falls to her knees and those wings appear in a flurry of energy. She says this always happens when she’s tired. It’s nothing, really . . . Klein thinks it’s best to rejoin the others.

I guess they’re able to leave by way of the door, because next thing I know they’re back outside and Delsus is saying how relieved he is that they’re back–and, whoa, what happened to Lita? She tries to brush it off again as nothing and Klein thinks it’s best to go have a talk with Zeldalia, who, hopefully, knows more about these turn of events than they do.

(I can freely enter the room, now. Gears and other items will spawn for grabs.)

This is a good time to save at the Furnace’s Camp before heading to Zeldalia’s place. Then it’s another brief run through Poto’s Forest! And another rest at the Camp outside her house.

: “Something’s wrong with Lita . . . Let’s take her to Zeldalia!”

: “Oh, don’t worry . . . I’ll be fine.”

: “I don’t think Lita can stay here . . . We should get back to Zeldalia’s.”

: “Is Lita gonna be okay . . .? I’m worried, meow.”

Next time: NOW IT’S NEKKID BATH TIME FOR LITA! >:9

]]> http://valigarmanda.wordpress.com/2009/09/05/atelier-iris-eternal-mana-gameblog-16/ Sat, 05 Sep 2009 07:15:18 +0000 valigarmanda http://valigarmanda.wordpress.com/2009/09/05/atelier-iris-eternal-mana-gameblog-16/

11 – Kavoc, Sewer, Kavoc, Sewer, Lake Forwel
12 – Kavoc, Outdoor Theatre, Lake Forwel
13 – Kavoc, Lapis Woods, Kavoc
14 – Lake Forwel, Crossroads, Proselyte Encampment, Collector’s Caravan, Lake Forwel
15 – Proselyte Encampment, Iris’ Resting Place, Poto’s Forest

There’s more to the forest past Zeldalia’s place. A sign reads [Do not Enter] but it’s perfectly enterable. What I find is the spot that magical spot from the very beginning of the game where Klein and Lita were reminiscing about the time they first met . . . I guess this spot will become an important place later on, maybe . . .

Now it’s time to bust in on Zeldalia and the Cat Lady. Delsus doesn’t realize who he’s talking to when he asks if Zeldalia knows a witch named Zeldalia. XD Her youthful appearance throws Delsus off, but she is in fact about five times older than he is.

She asks why they’ve come looking for her. Klein tells her he wants his stolen heirloom back, but Zeldalia doesn’t believe he’s worthy to hold such a book. She feels Daphne would be ashamed that her book was in such inexperienced hands . . . Klein wants to know how Zeldalia knows his grandmother’s name . . . She doesn’t answer. Instead, she wants Klein to prove himself worthy. She takes us to that mystical spot past her house where we’ll be tested by battling Norn, the Cat Lady. (Zeldalia has too bad a hip to test him herself. XD)

Zeldalia is pleased at what she’s witnessed and gladly gives the book back to Klein. The witch needed to know that he was following the right path. I don’t know how she gets that from watching him fighting her lackey cat girl but whatever. She felt the need for a test because Daphne, an old friend, asked that Zeldalia watch over Klein.

She also notices that he’s befriended the Mana of Wood. Popo appears to say that he and Klein have been best friends since Klein was just a baby. They’re practically brothers. Daphne told Klein, once, that Popo used to live in a tree near her house. That’s all well and good to hear, but Zeldalia reminds Klein that he shouldn’t forget that, while they may feel like brothers, Popo is still a Mana. Klein says he knows, and that he’s already made pacts with other Mana. This surprises Zeldalia, and Uru appears as proof. She mumbles something about “Lineage of Iris” . . . and tells Norn to accompany Klein on his journey. Norn gets sad at the thought of leaving her mistress, but Zeldalia assures Norn that she’ll be fine. Norn’s emotions change like the wind and she perks up right away, excitedly saying that she’ll happily be the group’s guide.

And so Norn joins the party!

We all walk back to Zeldalia’s house, where the witch tells Klein to go back to Iris’ Resting Place. Something will be waiting for him. It sounds like another Mana to Klein . . . Zeldalia’s own Mana appears beside her, a spirit that shares in her many joys and sorrows. She points out that she only has the one, unlike Klein. (I think she’s making a point here, or something.)

Anyway, at Iris’ Resting Place, there is a pedestal where he can place his Mana. She tried once but never accomplished whatever it was she was trying to do. She feels Klein will succeed where she’s failed.

I’m back in control of everything and eagerly look at Norn’s stats. OH MY GAWD SHE STARTS AT LEVEL 12. >,> Everyone else is at LV 26. ;_; I guess she’ll be permanently in battle for some time . . . since the battle formation is three-persons-only, I switch out Delsus for Norn.

I talk to Zeldalia again and she grants Klein a choice of an item. Either a useful Mana item or a skill. (Thankfully, it doesn’t matter which you choose because later on you’ll get the other one.) For now, I choose the Mana item, Ether Bulb (though, I think maybe I should have gone with the skill since I can’t properly synth it yet–I need a HUGE amount of Light element for Uru to do it).

A ladder takes us to the second floor of Zeldalia’s house where a black cat says the cat store is closed for the day. Norn gets angry and yells at Nyaron to get back to work or she’ll tell Zeldalia on him. That’s threat strikes enough fear into his heart to open up his store. XD We can buy a variety of things here. Tingleberries, Big Pumpkins, a book called Magic in 7 Days, Baj Serum, a Star Piece, Red Peppers and Twisted Landos. I buy as many as Nyaron is carrying of everything. (And I still have plenty of Cole left after that, too. )

From the second floor we can walk out onto the tree itself, where there’s a ball of light to extract for a huge chunk of Light element and an Ancient Mask (a piece of equipment). Now I think it’s best to rest up and save at Camp.

: “What could be at Iris’ Resting Place?”

: “A Mana pedestal . . . Where’ve I seen that before?”

: “We’ll be the best of friends, meow!”

NEXT TIME: TRUTHS! and it’s almost time for Lita’s nekkid bathtime

]]> http://valigarmanda.wordpress.com/2009/08/28/the-7th-saga-recorded-playthrough-1-2-3-and-4/ Fri, 28 Aug 2009 03:22:27 +0000 valigarmanda http://valigarmanda.wordpress.com/2009/08/28/the-7th-saga-recorded-playthrough-1-2-3-and-4/

]]> http://valigarmanda.wordpress.com/2009/08/17/atelier-iris-eternal-mana-gameblog-15/ Mon, 17 Aug 2009 02:07:04 +0000 valigarmanda http://valigarmanda.wordpress.com/2009/08/17/atelier-iris-eternal-mana-gameblog-15/

11 – Kavoc, Sewer, Kavoc, Sewer, Lake Forwel
12 – Kavoc, Outdoor Theatre, Lake Forwel
13 – Kavoc, Lapis Woods, Kavoc
14 – Lake Forwel, Crossroads, Proselyte Encampment, Collector’s Caravan, Lake Forwel

Klein and Popo

First thing I do after booting up the game is check the Bonus section now available on the start screen. There are four sections of goodies: Character Introduction (2 pages, 12 entries), Gallery (3 pages, 21 entries), Sound Mode (9 pages, 66 entries), Movie (1 page, 4 entries).

Right now I have two entries filled, one in Character Introduction and the other in Gallery.

ENTRY #1
Klein Kiesling
(Male)
AGE 17 HT 164 cm WT 52 kg
LIKES Alchemy
DISLIKES Being treated like a kid
DREAM Master Alchemy

With the [] button you can view all the event pictures of each character (you know, the different facial pics that pop up when they’re talking in a cutscene?). And, of course, official artwork is in the Gallery.

ENTRY #5
Klein

Alright. With those newly acquired Visas, the gang should be able to get that knight to let them pass through the Proselyte Encampment. We have to wait until Beggur takes his troops off to patrol, leaving Drei to keep check at the encampment. This one shouldn’t recognize us . . . and, hey, he doesn’t! Thank god for fat bastards with food on their minds! :p

To the north of the Proselyte Encampment is a huge fortress in ruins, Iris’ Resting Place. We’ll have to make our way through the ruins to get to Poto’s Forest.

Monsters (Iris’ Resting Place): Mini Puni, Puni, Red Puni, Ghost, Banshee, Brownie

Treasure (Iris’ Resting Place): Red Bracer, 340 Cole, Sorcerer Support, Yellow Mana

The place is pretty gloomy and infested with ethereal monsters. Junk litters the floors that I have to extract to get out of the way. Items are scattered around to pick up, as well, along with working objects to extract from, like lightning pillars that will fry you good if you touch them. XD There are also some Growloons to get rid of . . . Climbing up some stairs to a higher level triggers Lita to notice three pedestals lined up. Klein feels a lot of Mana energy radiating from them, even though they’re man-made. Delsus says whatever they are, they’re in ruin now and that there isn’t time to waste, gotta catch that cat-girl!

A door near the bottom of the stairs leads to a small room where a Fairy, Puko, greets us and explains that we’re standing in the reverberatory furnace and that he’s the janitor. XD He says we can fuse ore here but not right now because the furnace is being repaired. Okay. There’s a place to Camp here, conveniently.

Making our way around the higher level, past the pedestals, there’s a statue that, when examined, disappears, and a Mana appears in its place. This is Plua, the Dark Mana, who doesn’t seem to be all that interested that Klein can see her . . . She’s about to leave in thin air when Klein asks that she join the party. She reluctantly agrees and says to watch out for more statues like hers, for there may be other Mana sleeping in them.

Since Plua has an ability Klein can use, it’s tutorial time! This one is called Popo’s travel edition Fourth-Wall Lecture series, addressing the topic of ‘Summon Monsters’. Plua joins Popo to explain how to Gather Monsters.