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			<title>The OFFICIAL RPG thread</title>
			<link>http://www.comiccollectorlive.com/Forum/framehelper.aspx?g=posts&amp;t=12874</link>
			<description><![CDATA[Against some judgment, I picked this [color=red](Lost Odyssey)[/color] up for about 50% off. I've been asking about this game round these parts for a short while, and after today's purchase have played this about an hour now (I say against judgment because I'm not finding too many reviews that glow in the dark, but they are generally favorable).

[b]Pros[/b]:

Combat system with the ring is intriguing. Reminds me of MLB2K7, which is not nec a bad thing.

THis is Final Fantasy 0 as far as I am concerned. Again, not a bad thing. Same creative team, right down to the soundtrack (which is pretty good).

Any game, and my first, that has 4 DVDs in the package must have some real scalability. THe packaging was lousy, though. 

A real familiarity, since I've played the recent Eternal Sonata, FF and some other RPGs to an extent.

Serious as cancer. I'm betting the characters are more the attraction than the plot (I say this since the developers throw you into the storyline with little backdrop)

Cheap

[b]Cons[/b]:

A bit derivative from what I can tell

Not as immersive as the tagline suggests, but I've been sucked into a game well after the first few hours

Hasn't been the greatest challenge so far, but again to be fair they may be developing the storyline and "easing" one into gameplay

A bit linear. But I suppose all the FF games are also.


So far, I'd say it is a good game. I'm hoping it becomes a great game.

]]></description>
			<pubDate>Fri, 10 Oct 2008 22:53:05 GMT</pubDate>
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			<title>The OFFICIAL RPG thread</title>
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			<description><![CDATA[I have about 10 hours in L O. I LIKE it. It is a bit of a drawn out mystery as to what and or who the big bad is in this one. There seems to be a conspiracy, and the whole thing with the lead character having flashback memories could prove interesting. I am totally stuck in an area of Infinite Undiscovery which may lead to me returning to L O, and since you are playing it, all the better we can shoot the sh!t about it. Go to gamefaqs.com and use the walk through to help you find hidden items, it could REALLY help, if I remember there is a no spoiler version to help you not miss good items. Watch out, once KrisEllie gets a whiff of us talking about this she will dive in with her 2 cents. I know she liked it, she's a big RPGer, which is great. Her advice led me to getting certain games as well as Anime series. (When you read this Kris, I got a ton of the stuff you recommended to me a while back, I just need to get around to watching them.)]]></description>
			<pubDate>Sat, 11 Oct 2008 02:41:32 GMT</pubDate>
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			<title>The OFFICIAL RPG thread</title>
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			<description><![CDATA[im on disc three so yeah , dementia5 you might need the book as i bet you are passing all types of stuff needed to build a awesome team . also try setting the diffaculty higher . once in the game for 5 or so hours you will get hooked]]></description>
			<pubDate>Sat, 11 Oct 2008 09:18:56 GMT</pubDate>
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			<title>The OFFICIAL RPG thread</title>
			<link>http://www.comiccollectorlive.com/Forum/framehelper.aspx?g=posts&amp;t=12874</link>
			<description><![CDATA[No, it's not super hard.  Each dungeon caps your level as well.  Or well, not a literal cap, because you can still level up, but it slows down majorly.  This is to prevent grinding for levels.  Which is kind of annoying, but you still gain skill points at the same speed.  There are a couple of areas later on that are GREAT for leveling up though, no matter what level you are.  They're bonus dungeons/secret areas.  And you can get all kinds of good stuff there.  

The story though, oh man I LOVED the story.  It doesn't seem like much now, but there's a huge conspiracy going on there, and once you figure it out, it's like WOAH.  Plus I mean, it's just so sweet to watch Kaim's story with his family unfold.  The characters in the game are just so great (except for the King of uh...oh I forget his name; he's all in gold; he's the king of that very first place you visit...he's kind of a pussy, and a little annoying, but there's one of those in every game really).  And every scene between Ming and Jansen is just fantastic.  And man, once you get Jansen and Ming and Sarah all beefed up, you're just unstoppable.  

I don't think you ~really~ need a guide, except for maybe a couple of things.  If you explore every nook and cranny you should find most of what you need.  

Oriasten:
I'm glad you checked a lot of that out, but I've found another for you!  We have the Funimation channel now, so I've been checking some stuff out, and I think you'd love a show called Beck Mongolian Chop Squad.  Or just Beck will probably be enough to find it.  It's about a rock band, but it's much more than that.  It's about growing up, balancing real life with your dreams, friendship, music.  Check it out.]]></description>
			<pubDate>Sat, 11 Oct 2008 13:20:26 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[Is Funimation a cable/satellite channel? If so Charter better get on the ball, that would actually convince me to watch TV, right now my digital cable box is so old and unused that the On Demand feature no longer works on it.

And I KNEW it was gonna be a big conspriacy in L O. I could smell it after all the stuff that lead up to the conspiracy of Yevon in FF X. Using machina but telling everyone else not to, thus probably invoking Sin even more ............. damn all this talk about FF X makes me wanna play it again. (Must........ focus..... on ....... new .......RPGs)]]></description>
			<pubDate>Sat, 11 Oct 2008 16:55:09 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[Yeah, I really wish I could tell you!  Because I loved how the story played out.  Let's just say there's a really good reason why none of them have their memories...and it didn't just happen on its own either.  :)
If you haven't gotten to it yet, the explanation of what happened to Kaim's daughter (the little girl that jumps off the cliff in the very beginning) is really heartbreaking.  Ah, I want to play it again!  But I don't have a copy.  :(  Hoping to get my own copy for Christmas.  

And yeah the Funimation channel is a cable channel.  We've got it with Verizon; it's mixed in with the cartoon channels.  Which is kind of silly, because most of that stuff is not meant for kids.  ]]></description>
			<pubDate>Sat, 11 Oct 2008 18:05:22 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[Looks like you have already said too much, I didn't recognize some of that plot stuff. But its ok I will find out.

Ever since I found out about Anime channels outside of Japan, I have hoped that one would reach me. All I have to go with is Cartoon Network, which as a station I dont like it, even though I am a fan of Robot Chicken and Metalocalypse. I know Canada has one, and now your telling me your area of Texas has one. Damnit ............ I know Anime has a big following everywhere, so I think a dedicated station with all carriers should be there. Show old and new, from Astro Boy (did I get the name right?) to Speed Racer, to Naruto and other newer stuff. We WILL watch it. My cousin has DirecTV HD, I am at his house now even, I went through his channels ............ nothing, and I think he has the whole package.


Dementia, how u doing on L O? I am stuck somewhere on Infinite Undiscovery so I am gonna start playing L O again.]]></description>
			<pubDate>Sat, 11 Oct 2008 23:29:10 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[KOE is correct, the story has gotten better and better.

And I tip my hat to the Japanese writer Kiyoshi Shigematsu who provided the backstory in the 1000 years of dreams. A really solid game, and I'm glad I purchased it. 

ANd Seth... well, she's eight miles of good road.]]></description>
			<pubDate>Thu, 06 Nov 2008 10:10:04 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[Seth!  She's a total badass.  I don't think her son takes after her much, though.  Good in combat, but I kind of wanted to smack him a few times.]]></description>
			<pubDate>Fri, 07 Nov 2008 00:17:57 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[This game is really shaping up to be a favorite. I can't think of any other example of a video game that has as much heart and substance as to include so many emotional elements, and at the level it has so far. Most notably I speak of the passage of a major character... complete with funeral (an interactive one at that) and a cut scene that would make even the most cynical being stop and pause. I may go so far as to say this is the most "sensitive" game I've ever played, although I understand that [i]Final Fantasy [/i]has its moments (same creator; I am not surprised).

This is a predominantly melancholy game, so I can't say it's for everyone. It also has a real goth feel, which might explain my predilections to the storyline. Although getting strong reviews, no one seems to be chirping about Game of the Year. What else could they be looking for? Oh that's right... another shooter.

I actually look forward to Jenson's quips now, at times a little comic relief is just what the doctor ordered. I must admit, I didn't know what I was getting into at first. Always thinking it was a clever game, it's actually a lot more than that. And four discs promises a lot more material to come.

Off to the Crimson Forest...]]></description>
			<pubDate>Sat, 08 Nov 2008 17:49:52 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[Still my favorite rpg is parasite eve ]]></description>
			<pubDate>Sat, 08 Nov 2008 18:06:13 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[[quote=Dementia5]

I actually look forward to Jenson's quips now, at times a little comic relief is just what the doctor ordered. I must admit, I didn't know what I was getting into at first. Always thinking it was a clever game, it's actually a lot more than that. And four discs promises a lot more material to come.

Off to the Crimson Forest...[/quote]

You're going to really enjoy him later, when you pick up Ming.  He's only his real self around her, so you'll get to see another side to him.  Their interactions are some of my favorite in the game.]]></description>
			<pubDate>Sat, 08 Nov 2008 21:16:49 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[Well, I'm onto the second disk (of four), and thanks for all the achievement points XBox!

This game continues to deliver, although I would have thought the first disk to have lasted longer than it did, e.g. I've spent more time on [i]Eternal Sonata [/i]and am just over half way through (on one disk).

But I am nit picking. I have "rescued" the queen, and who knows where we're heading after that. The Crimson Forest was mighty good. If I had enough foresight, I would have saved multiple files to go back and play that part again... it was so haunting.
]]></description>
			<pubDate>Tue, 18 Nov 2008 09:19:54 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[You can go back later.  Just like in the Final Fantasy games, you can go back to anywhere later.  You'll pick up a boat and a sort of hybrid air ship later on and you can go where ever you want (including hunting down some bonus dungeons).  

Also, I think one of the reasons there's so many discs is because the game comes with about 4-5 different languages.  ]]></description>
			<pubDate>Tue, 18 Nov 2008 11:19:32 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[Let's not forget the FMV's, the most disc space hogging stuff in RPGs. Not that I am complaining, I wouldn't have it any other way.

I am nearing completion of Rock Band 2 ............. I just might have to go back to L O just to have something to talk to you guys about hehe.]]></description>
			<pubDate>Tue, 18 Nov 2008 13:38:05 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[Well, you can talk to me about Infinite Undiscovery, and how half-assed a game it is.  ^_^
It's decent, and I like the characters and the story...but Square really disappointed me with this one.  It feels like they had way too much on their plate (making Last Remnant, IU, Star Ocean, 3 Kingdom Hearts games, 3 Final Fantasy XIII games, etc; I mean I know they're a big company, but geez....).  I almost hope I'm right, and that it means Last Remnant will blow me away.
I'm enjoying IU, but it's far from brilliance.]]></description>
			<pubDate>Tue, 18 Nov 2008 16:43:52 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[I have seen the screens and read the summary on EBGames on Last Remnant, it looks really good and the battle set up sounds really different. I think we need an RPG specific thread so we can just run off about any and all RPGs we might be playing at the moment. Tonight I plan on knocking out a LOT of Rock Band 2 sets. I only have four more cities to finish and then it will be time for the endless set list. Once I am done with Rock Band 2, I am off to at least ONE of my Xbox360 RPGs .......... I'm tempted to play Fallout 3, but I might just plow back into Lost Odyssey so I can get out of the prison area and move on.]]></description>
			<pubDate>Tue, 18 Nov 2008 18:27:07 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[I renamed this thread because after all, it has transcended Lost Odyssey in terms of content.

I'm heading to the biggest New England comic convention in a short while, so I'll keep posting what goodies I pickup germane to all things RPG.

Since the last post, I DID pickup some winners for cheap, about $20 for the lot:

[i]Champions of Norrath
Star Ocean: The Beginning of Time
Rogue Galaxy[/i]

Having played the first 20 minutes for flavor, they are all first rate (and entirely different from one other).

Also picked up a nice collector's ed [i]Lost Planet [/i]and [i]Prey[/i]... these are shooters, but are pretty impressive. So many games! Thanksgiving break will be welcome in our household... I'll keep posting.

ps: LOST ODYSSEY - I'm in my old mansion... spooky stuff. Avg party level about 30.  This is a really great game that continues to deliver.

pss: KOE, have you ever played Gygax' Dangerous Journeys?]]></description>
			<pubDate>Sun, 23 Nov 2008 08:39:43 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[I think I will be playing some L O today/night, not QUITE done with RB2 but feeling some over kill with it. I will have Last Remnant within a week, from what I see it is going to be a really unusual game. Its getting sub par reviews though. EBGames' website had 2 customer reviews, one gave it a 9, one gave it a 1 for an average of 5. Game Informer magazine gave it a 7. It's M rated, and there seems to be a multi party aspect to it. It also sounds like its a "play along movie" game like I have heard Xenosaga feels like. Either way, it's a Square game, so I am interested. When I get it I will play the first hour or so and do a review both here and in the review thread. 

And yes Dementia, so many games ............ so little time.

UPDATE

Good GOD what a sad game! I played L O all day yesterday (it is Monday the 24th now). I got out of the prison area, met the Queen, went on my merry way and then ...... I come across Kaim's daughter, lying on her death bed, with 2 kids at her side, and we have to set up a funeral. I must say the funeral tradition was very nice, very Paganesque. But damn, I was bawling through the whole thing. I wanted to be killing monsters and leveling up and unraveling more of the story but instead I got a soap opera. I will be playing more today, it looks like L O is my game till its done, then I can move on to Infinite Undiscovery, which I am looking forward to. Then it will be off to either Tales of Vesperia, Eternal Sonata, Last Remnant, or Blue Dragon. And let's not forget I still have Oblivion GOTY for PS3, and Fallout 3.]]></description>
			<pubDate>Sun, 23 Nov 2008 13:49:31 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[[quote=Dementia5]

pss: KOE, have you ever played Gygax' Dangerous Journeys?[/quote]

No, I have not.  Not sure I've heard of it, either.


On Last Remnant:
I've read the reviews too, and a 7 is still worth playing, it's just not fantastic.  I'm still getting the feeling that Square really dropped the ball on both IU and LR.  They both could have and should have been brilliant; all the elements are there.  They're just not polished.  ]]></description>
			<pubDate>Mon, 24 Nov 2008 10:37:06 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[[quote=Oriasten]I think I will be playing some L O today/night, not QUITE done with RB2 but feeling some over kill with it. I will have Last 
UPDATE

Good GOD what a sad game! I played L O all day yesterday (it is Monday the 24th now). I got out of the prison area, met the Queen, went on my merry way and then ...... I come across Kaim's daughter, lying on her death bed, with 2 kids at her side, and we have to set up a funeral. I must say the funeral tradition was very nice, very Paganesque.[/quote]

[b]No kidding[/b]. I've never been more sad playing a game. THe cut scenes were powerful, and even my wife was visibly affected (a non-gaming spectator in this example). And like I said, I've never seen a funeral handled so delicately before. In fact, I've NEVER seen a funeral in a game before. Had all the uniqueness of burying a red shirt on Star Trek (which they performed... only twice).

You are headed into splendid territory, haunting, beautiful, and intense.

]]></description>
			<pubDate>Mon, 24 Nov 2008 11:51:28 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[You will find a semi funeral scene in the first few hours of Final Fantasy X when Yuna does her first sending. Very beautiful animation, it is one of the fan's favorite scenes from the game aside from the moon river love scene between Yuna and Tidus. If you don't have the game here's a youtube link.



http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=jJPhSapqRtw&feature=related]]></description>
			<pubDate>Mon, 24 Nov 2008 12:15:47 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[Er...the little scene in FFX where Yuna walks out onto the water and sends of the spirits is sort of like a funeral (and it's a very beautiful scene, regardless).
I'm trying to think of other games with actual funerals....  
Did FFXII not have one during the opening sequence?

edit:
Ah, Oriasten beat me to it!
]]></description>
			<pubDate>Mon, 24 Nov 2008 12:18:07 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[Its been almost 2 years since I played FFXII so I don't remember.

Good thing I passed out early last night or you woulda beaten me Krissy hehe.]]></description>
			<pubDate>Mon, 24 Nov 2008 12:27:09 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[Well, I just spent about an hour on The Last Remnant.

The first battle scene is large scale as far as people on the screen. The battle itself is easy. So far it is the only battle I have seen any significant lag on. As some of you may have heard, TLR has some game play issues. In regular battles, I am seeing very little of this. Aside from the intro battle I have not hit any big battles. There are some areas of what is called texture popping. Which is seeing a big polygon and then seeing it finally get rendered, instead of it already being rendered when you look at it like a game should. If you have ever played a game on your PC that was a little too strong for your system, but still playable, you will have NO problems playing TLR. I know that typically this would be in the review thread, but I have only played the game a little, so I thought I would put my thoughts here for my fellow RPG fans.

Also, I've been playing some Fallout 3 recently. I likes, check it out if you are a Oblivion fan. I really like that you can target an enemy in slow motion and not have to rely on FPS prowess, since I am a mouse and kb man, this helps.

I have ALSO been playing some Lost Odyssey, for those who are, or have played it, I am just inside the cave where you have to make the rock bust the door down, where you fight the creature holding the little girl's brother Mack. So far I am still liking LO, can't wait to get further into it.

But alas .......... I have Need for Speed Undercover ............ racing games are my obsession, so give me a week or so to beat it, (all NFS games are short but fun), and I will go back to my RPGs again. I have actually spread out my playing of Midnight Club LA ......... but NFS has a special place in my gaming heart, so I must play.]]></description>
			<pubDate>Sat, 29 Nov 2008 23:39:12 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[I read that the biggest battle lags occur when you're using special moves (like the equivalent of a summoning or Knights of the Round).  That there's like a 10-15 second load time in the middle of battle when you use them.  In fact the review I read made the game sound almost unplayable unless you uploaded the disc onto the HDD (and if you have a 20 gig like I do, you'll be lucky to get one disc loaded at a time).  I keep hearing that the story and characters are generic, and things like that.
But I also read that the battles are interesting (if the system is a little flawed), and that it's enjoyable, etc.  I was told "it's for the hardcore RPG player," which defines me, so I'm sure I'll like it well enough.  

They keep blaming the graphic issues on the U3 engine but...Lost Odyssey used the same engine, and while there was a significant battle screen load time in that game, the rest of the graphics problems plaguing Last Remnant didn't exist.  ]]></description>
			<pubDate>Sun, 30 Nov 2008 11:26:03 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[The most believable comment I read is that TLR just needed a good bit more tweaking time, which would have pushed away the release date. As I said, I haven't played enough to see any of the major lag areas other than the intro scene.

One thing I DID notice I forgot to mention, the characters don't have the emotion on their faces that you would expect. Now again I am early on in the game but still. I am calling what I see. The voices themselves sound fine, it's just that the characters don't look as emotional as they sound. And after playing L O that is something that is fast to pick up on. 

All in all, I would say that if you are a JRPG fan, or a Square Enix fan, try it out. Maybe rent if first, or rent it a few times to play through it. One other thing I can say that was a little unnerving, in the first 30 min of the game, EVERY change in scene was a loading sequence, complete with loading screen ........... even the encounter fights. No fancy screen blur effect like most RPGs, instead it stopped threw up a loading screen with some text about certain parts of the game, like you see all the time, and THEN it went into the fight screen.

Luckily, after getting to the first castle and going off on your first official quest, this loading sequence seems to have been replaced with a wide and thin orange corona on the screen, which is a little more par to an "effect" between walking around and encounters. Also you can see the enemies on the screen while in the main world, very similar to Blue Dragon. I say Blue Dragon instead of FF XII because you have an attack ring you control with RB much like you do in BD.

]]></description>
			<pubDate>Sun, 30 Nov 2008 12:49:16 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[UPDATE

Last Remnant plays much better when you put it on the hard drive with the new Xbox update.

Also I am totally stuck at the end of disc one of Lost Odyssey. I am going to try to go back to a town and stock up on some supplies. Anyone know if you can do that? (Gonna try tonight) I need a ton of angel plumes and mana herbs for that blue element that has Mack in a trance. I made the mistake of going into the battle with zero angel plumes left and only one mana herb ............. really smart huh? How was I supposed to know it was the disc one final boss? I looked up the faq on gamefaqs.com, thus finding that out.


YET ANOTHER UPDATE

I FINALLY beat Disc 1 of Lost Odyssey, and spent 2 hours on disc 2 before I could put it down. I am really getting into it now. It took me forever to beat that forest entity.]]></description>
			<pubDate>Fri, 05 Dec 2008 14:51:43 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[OK, this may seem lame but I am making one more attempt to resurrect this thread. I got a lot of RPG stuff I wanna talk about.

Last night I went through the rest of disc 2 of Lost Odyssey. Tonight I start Disc 3. Is it bad that I am only on level 29 at the start of disc 3?

The end of disc 2 was really good with the showdown with Gongora. Also a lot of plot laid out and stuff explained. If I keep going I should finish this by 2009.

Anyone else got some RPG stuff to share? Feel free to add more about Fable 2, I think I will be starting that after L O.


(Hey Fate, if you read this, can you sticky this, it could turn out to be a really good thread. That is, if it's ok with Dem5.)]]></description>
			<pubDate>Thu, 11 Dec 2008 20:09:22 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[In case it's not caught up above:

Infinite Undisovery review:
http://girlg33k.blogspot.com/2008/12/infinite-undiscovery.html]]></description>
			<pubDate>Fri, 12 Dec 2008 22:40:11 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[[quote=Oriasten]

Last night I went through the rest of disc 2 of Lost Odyssey. Tonight I start Disc 3. Is it bad that I am only on level 29 at the start of disc 3?
[/quote]

Not if you've been playing it correctly.  The game doesn't really allow you to level grind, as I'm sure you've noticed by now, and I've also mentioned before.  Just simply going through the game makes your characters hit area level caps easily.  It's designed to make things a bit of a challenge (ie: not absurdly easy).  If you're worried, on the last disc you'll get the big ship and the submarine/airship.  You'll find a bonus dungeon or two and they'll beef you up big time before you move on to the final dungeon and the showdown with Gongora.]]></description>
			<pubDate>Fri, 12 Dec 2008 22:43:40 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[Well I am at the opening save point of the Ice Canyon. Tonight is probably going to be a Rock Band night, but I am looking forward to continuing L O. I read the I U review, but I skipped the story specific stuff. If I remember correctly I was stuck in a castle that didn't have an obvious path (in I U) it's right after you use the catapults to break into the castle, really early in the game, I know.]]></description>
			<pubDate>Sat, 13 Dec 2008 00:36:53 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[Just wanted to pop back in and comment on Lost Odyssey again.  I'm playing through it again and I wanted to mention how great Kaim's character is.  He's physically designed to be one of those emo pretty boy characters (like Squall or Cloud), but he's got so much more personality.

He's so cold and detached most of the time, until he's with his grandchildren.  Those are some of the sweetest, most charming scenes in the whole game.  He's actually pretty sweet with kids over all, if you read the 1,000 Years of Memories stuff.  It's his soft spot, I guess.  The emotion that comes through the game is really fantastic and genuine.

Just one of the many reasons I really enjoyed this game.]]></description>
			<pubDate>Tue, 13 Jan 2009 10:54:17 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[I saw you playing LO last night, while I was playing [i]the Darkness[/i]. About as anti-thetical as two games can get.

I played some LO last weekend, and I'm still convinced it has the best supporting, heart-rendering characters in an RPG. You are spot on about Kaim... it would be so EASY to have him fall into an archetypical stereotype, instead they decide to make him fascinating.

Seth has some endearing moments, and I am partial to the way they are handling The Queen and Janson. My toddler was drawing a picture the other day (5 faces) and I asked if they were (our) family. He said "Yes. Here's Cooke, and Mack, and Janson, and Seth..." too funny.

My wish... someone needs to make this into a comic book. I bet it would sell nicely. 

And something a little off topic: I picked up a book that reminds me so much of the LO world, by Brandon Sanderson: [i]Mistborn[/i]... check it out.

[i][b]From Publisher's Weekly[/b]
Sanderson's eerie second fantasy (after 2005's Elantris), set in a mist-haunted, ash-ridden world, pits Kelsier, "the Survivor of Hathsin," against the immortal Lord Ruler's [color=red]1,000-year domination of both the Great Houses and their serflike "skaa."[/color] Through Allomancy acquired in the Ruler's most hellish prison, Kelsier can "burn" 10 metals internally, fueling superhuman powers he uses to assemble rebels in a loose plan to destroy the nobility, the empire and the Lord Ruler himself. Kelsier uses Vin, a street urchin with the same Mistborn powers Kelsier possesses, to infiltrate the Great Houses' society, where she falls in love with philosopher prince Elend Venture. This [color=red]mystico-metallurgical fantasy [/color]combines Vin's coming-of-age-in-magic and its well-worn theme of revolt against oppression with copious mutilations, a large-scale cast of thieves, cutthroats, conniving nobles and exotic mutants. The fast-paced action scenes temper Vin's interminable ballroom intrigues, while the characters, though not profoundly drawn, have a raw stereotypic appeal.[/i]

...tell me this doesn't sound familiar (but in a great and unobtrusive way).
]]></description>
			<pubDate>Tue, 13 Jan 2009 11:30:35 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[I've requested Fate to make this topic a sticky.]]></description>
			<pubDate>Tue, 13 Jan 2009 11:31:13 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[It might make a nice manga.  Actually what I'd love to see is visualization of the dreams.  While they're wonderful to read, it's a little disappointing that they're not fully animated.  They could have been beautiful scenes even with just some static images, like a slide show.  Maybe with some voice over reading the story.

Ming and Jansen are fantastic!  I really loved how their relationship developed.  

You know, even if the game had some mechanical problems, the character development is top notch.

And I'd also like to note that I got a little teary eyed again when Kaim is reunited with Lirum.]]></description>
			<pubDate>Tue, 13 Jan 2009 12:06:26 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[[b]Thread is stuck, guys.[/b]]]></description>
			<pubDate>Tue, 13 Jan 2009 17:08:04 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[I must admit I have waned a little on LO. I am trying to beat GTA4 in under 30 hrs for an achievement, and have been playing some Rock Band. But fear not my RPGs will make a return. Actually I am working on getting the new LOTR Conquest game. I will have to post a review for it. I will let you guys know when I do it. I am glad to see this thread get stuck, I just wish my browser had made it blue so I would know to check it for posts, hence my absence from the latest postings.]]></description>
			<pubDate>Thu, 15 Jan 2009 16:31:43 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[Yeah, I hate stickied threads.  I usually cease looking at a thread when it gets stickied.  New posts just don't stand out like the do for regular posts, and my eyes just pass over it.

As for LOTR Conquest...do let us (me) know how it is.  I played the demo and was unimpressed.]]></description>
			<pubDate>Thu, 15 Jan 2009 19:59:04 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[Well, my first impression of LOTR Conquest.

As many on game sites have already said. If you like Battlefront, you will like this. Its no RPG, its all action with maybe some upgrades and a chance to unlock "heroes" to play as later. So far I have unlocked Isildor, the tutorial lets you play through some of the battle against Sauron, including against Sauron himself. The first main level is Helm's Deep, kinda cool, I died while trying to take out the torch carrying Orc, and felt that was enough for now.

I am headed back to GTA 4 right now, close to beating it again. ]]></description>
			<pubDate>Fri, 16 Jan 2009 00:54:30 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[http://darkswords.eu/index.php

stumbled across this... I'd like your collective opinion on this, especially after what we all discussed about a "chat" rpg tool.]]></description>
			<pubDate>Thu, 22 Jan 2009 19:09:35 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[...and while you're at it, I found this gold mine: a repository for every single MMORPG that is currently active, with [b]reviews[/b]; most downloads are free. Why leave the house? Oh that's right...

http://www.onrpg.com/]]></description>
			<pubDate>Thu, 22 Jan 2009 19:31:58 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[I'll poke around there tomorrow (your first link).

Thinking of compiling a list of all the RPGs I've played (or at least the ones I have) and noting their playability.  Since I do play mostly RPGs.  

From The Bard's Tale to Xenosaga.  Might do that tomorrow too in between some anime reviews.]]></description>
			<pubDate>Thu, 22 Jan 2009 23:57:55 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[We're going to have to distinguish RPGs somewhat, as in tabletop RPGs (D&D, Call of Cthulhu, Warhammer, GURPS...) to video RPGs (Oblivion, Lost Odyssey, Final Fantasy...), and for that matter MMORPGs (WoW, Everquest, Warhammer again...)

]]></description>
			<pubDate>Fri, 23 Jan 2009 08:28:50 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[Well the thread was originally a video game thread, I thought.  But it doesn't really matter.

]]></description>
			<pubDate>Fri, 23 Jan 2009 14:27:53 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[I agree with Krissy. For the most part we would normally be talking about video games. MMORPG's ARE video games, so that works. I personally do not play any of them but I clicked on that onrpg thing and I found some stuff I might try to get into. One of the games was called Fiesta by Outspark and their site looked good. I think one of my friends from A+ Cert class was playing that one. Also as far as talking about table top games, go right ahead, I have never played one, but have always wanted to. I am actually playing a game on Xbox that is a little more RPG than the last one, (although if you ask me, Grand Theft Auto IS an RPG) after finishing GTA IV, I looked over all of my game discs and said ........ I pick ......... YOU. So now I am playing Star Wars Unleashed. Your abilities can be upgraded, and you level up, so it has RPG qualities.]]></description>
			<pubDate>Sat, 24 Jan 2009 00:47:28 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[That's pretty much how it is... if your character, avatar, whatever... can advance in levels of experience as you progress throughout the game, it has some of the refining qualities of an RPG.

[i]Star Wars: Unleashed[/i]? Oy... of all the games you have to play to keep up with the rest of us, this is the one you picked, eh?]]></description>
			<pubDate>Sat, 24 Jan 2009 08:08:44 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[I have it, might as well play it. You will find I am not too picky when it comes to what I play. Plus I am in an unoffcial competition with my best friend for gamer score and I am only about 200 behind right now, so any achievements no matter what the game is a good thing. I got over 100 points finishing off GTA IV. ]]></description>
			<pubDate>Sat, 24 Jan 2009 18:27:49 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[Fair enough. Once you hit Fable2, look me up. ]]></description>
			<pubDate>Sat, 24 Jan 2009 22:44:24 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[Final Fantasy Tactics is my favorite RPG. ChronoTrigger is a close second.
I have several thousand dollars invested in Warhammer 40K and I play WoW when I have time.]]></description>
			<pubDate>Sat, 24 Jan 2009 23:53:35 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[Welcome back, Jim.]]></description>
			<pubDate>Sat, 24 Jan 2009 23:54:28 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[[quote=Dementia5]Welcome back, Jim.[/quote]
Yeah that was a quick two years eh? heh.]]></description>
			<pubDate>Sat, 24 Jan 2009 23:58:38 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[Well, as we know two years in the comic book world can be as short as a few issues.]]></description>
			<pubDate>Sun, 25 Jan 2009 00:06:47 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[I have considered going to Fable 2 soon actually, from what I hear Star Wars is short.]]></description>
			<pubDate>Sun, 25 Jan 2009 02:46:16 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[Ah, I'm playing Chrono Trigger right now.  It rocks.  Really good story and the time traveling thing is pretty cool.

By the way, Dem5, picked up some MS points yesterday and I'll be buying the Knothole Island thing...as soon as Scott gets off the TV.  So tomorrow maybe.  I'll let you know how it is!]]></description>
			<pubDate>Sun, 25 Jan 2009 10:32:47 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[Worth mentioning as a current RPG I am playing. Forgot to mention, I've been playing Star Ocean First Departure on my PSP. I plan on getting the sequel when it comes out next month as well as the new Xbox 360 title coming soon as well.

And damn you Dem5, as I mentioned earlier I ended up finding a MMORPG that I am playing some too. Its called Fiesta by Outspark. It's free decent graphic, lots of people play it (2 million), so I am enjoying that now. The company (Outspark) has some new games coming soon too that are free including a really cool looking FPS set in an urban environment which is something I've been looking for.

This makes the first MMO I have ever played for more than 20 minutes. I am already at level 5 (big whoop yeah, but it took me a couple hrs so I am proud).]]></description>
			<pubDate>Sun, 25 Jan 2009 17:24:35 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[Please keep me posted, as I downloaded [i]Fiesta [/i]over the weekend, but my ISP unbelievable went down Sunday so I couldn't try it. I'll let you know when I get online (it's up today, but I'm away on business now), definitely look me up so we can run around the landscape together. It looks promising.

I also downloaded [i]Shadow of Legend, Perfect World, Silkroad, Shaiya [/i]and [i]Sword of the New World[/i]. These looked the best to me (some of the screenshots are [i]incredible [/i]looking), but I have yet to find a convincing sci-fi MMORPG. These were serious downloads (between 1 GB and 2 GB), but their servers are rock solid and with the exception of SOTNW had no broken downloads. If you guys wish, I will review them once I get a chance to run through them, probably by week's end. 

Actually a bit giddy about this, and hopeful as WoW et al have spawned a whole generation of MMOs for the rest of us... and for free; not sure how they pulled that off.

I've heard pretty good press about [i]Holic, Mabinogi, Metin 2, Last Chaos [/i]and [i]Cabal Online [/i]also. [i]Tantra, Rappelz, SCions of Fate [/i]and [i] Ralkion[/i] look interesting, if you can put up with the sameness of it all, and the different age groups.]]></description>
			<pubDate>Mon, 26 Jan 2009 09:08:10 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[Well, I finished [b]Fable2 [/b]last night. I'll place a review in the sticky, and post a separate thread since it contains spoilers. ]]></description>
			<pubDate>Mon, 26 Jan 2009 09:29:31 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[One more guys: came across this

http://www.mmocrunch.com/2008/04/28/9-free-mmos-worth-playing/

give you an idea of what we're talking about.]]></description>
			<pubDate>Mon, 26 Jan 2009 12:41:17 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[Played around on Knothole Island all afternoo.
It's a lot more than I was expecting.  It's at least 3 (small) dungeons, plus lots of treasure chests, dig spots, dive spots....  Tons of new items, from new dyes, weapons, clothing items, and (most wonderfully) new potions that will make you fat or thin instantly, or short or tall.
It's totally worth the 10 bucks.  Though it's better to play it earlier in a game than once you've beaten it, otherwise there's little need for all the cool stuff you'll find there.]]></description>
			<pubDate>Mon, 26 Jan 2009 18:06:01 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[Well, I played [i]Fiesta[/i] for about 20 minutes... this game is MUCH better than I had anticipated. A lot prettier than I expected, and you can tweak the settings to your liking. Seems really popular, too... but no frame lag for it. Once I get the gist of it, I'll send a PM to whomever wants to meet up.]]></description>
			<pubDate>Mon, 26 Jan 2009 20:28:17 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[I have achieved different levels of progress for each of these MMORPGs:

[i]Fiesta
Mabinogi
Shaiya
Perfect World
Florensia
Sword of the New World[/i]


and can place comment on each.

These are all Massive Multi-player Online Role Playing Games. A most unique form of entertainment if you have not played them before. Essentially, it is [i]Dungeons and Dragons [/i]for the new millenium, where you assume the personae of some fantastic character, and are off for adventure and wealth, melee and experience. It is no substitute for tabletop gaming, but it has opened an entirely new market for video games, and is deserving of the lavish success it has earned.

THe MMO genre has been hallmarked almost single-handedly by [i]World of Warcraft[/i], (begun by [i]Everquest [/i]and to some extent [i]Diablo[/i]) which I must say is probably still the best example... however, there are virtues that these games above offer that set them apart from the mainstream. Not the least of which, they are ALL free to play.

They make their profit using a very clever business model, which was initiated by [i]FlyFF [/i](Fly for Fun, another MMO I have not tested); you can buy other-worldly items for game use (a magic sword, a magic cloak, and so on) with your REAL hard-earned currency. It is not mandatory by any means, but it will set you apart from the rest of your peers if you choose to do so. I have not pursued this, although I am considering it.

Other features that set these games apart from [i]WoW, Guild Wars [/i]and the like- they have improved on many of the features that the mainstream titles offer, such as an expanded UI, superior graphics (almost every example above looks better than WoW) and a faithful community (if you can forgive the occasional Spam and Leet-speak) which spells greater success during playtime.

In summary:


FIESTA ****

Playability ****
Graphics ***1/2
Community ****


This is the "cutest" MMO I think, but that's one of the great attractors. Folks on this community are probably the friendliest I've come across in the list, and appear to be the most dedicated. The music is very hip, and puts you in the "mood", so to speak. VERY anime influenced, right down to the emoticons. This was the first I've tried, and may be the best... certainly has had me playing the longest sessions.


MABINOGI ****

Playability ****
Graphics ***1/2
Community ***

Highest marks to playability, as this one takes you by the hand with lots of cut scenes and simple language. if you've never played an MMO before, this is a good candidate. ANother anime influenced RPG, set in the Gaelic/Celtic tradition (not just another new-age spin-off, I speak some Gaelic and they do a fair job emulating the culture with town names and quest driven artifacts). I have played this the least, but am at the highest level compared to the other games on the list. The combat is satisfying, and even a bit clever. The animation and controls are very smooth, probably the best in the lot.



SHAIYA ***1/2

Playability ***1/2
Graphics ***1/2
Community ***1/2

THis is what Everquest would be like today had it kept up with the times. I enjoy this one a lot, even though it has earned the weakest ratings on the whole. No new ground to cover, so it's a tad dated but a good place to start if you're not sure about the whole genre of MMORPGs, and want something outside of the anime influenced KRPGs or JRPGs. An excellent support site, and is constantly going through further development... this game will be around for a while.



PERFECT WORLD ****

Playability ***1/2
Graphics ****
Community ****

A dynamite score, with a very cool soundtrack and authentic period piece (asian folk) music, this game takes itself pretty seriously. Set in European times, with an Asian flair, tHe graphics are top notch, although the refresh rate could be a little better... this is likely to be a function of how popular the servers can get ([color=red]edit: after tweaking the texture settings I found a happy medium, enough to notch the playability score up a bit[/color]). This game sports a strong community base, who are very helpful to noobs and veterans alike, from what I can see. The graphics are very good, although I haven't found too much variety with quests at the low levels. But it IS a good land to explore, with just enough variety to set it apart from the average MMO. Some of the landscaping is downright gorgeous. Oh, and you can [b]fly[/b].


FLORENSIA ****

Playability ****
Graphics ****
Community ****

Another popular anime based game with a voracious community, this game is fun to play for any number of reasons, not the least of which it is the most challenging of the bunch. The community is one big chatterbox, for better or for worse, and seem to cater to a teen crowd, but again, they have proven helpful and provide more than just simple backdrop to the setting. The graphics are lush and thoughtfully executed in design and placement. The game offers a unique experience building engine: one for land based encounters and the other for sea based experiences. 



SWORD OF THE NEW WORLD****

Playability ***1/2
Graphics *****
Community ***

Far and away, the best graphics package in the bunch, this game rivals any subscription service out there, in terms of story depth, visualization, characterization... virtually every tenet one looks for in a quality MMORPG. It is set apart from the crowd a bit, being a [i]tactical[/i], turn-based game, therefore it is less a sand box game and more a strategic one (think [i]Balder's Gate[/i]). But the layout and logic of this game is quite a treat, really, and one that also takes you by the hand at its beginning. This game has a huge following, and offers many unique and challenging gameplay mechanics that others do not have. Not for the feint of heart, but highly recommended.


THere you have it. As you can see, not a loser in the bunch. I also downloaded [i]Silkroad [/i](based on the trade routes in the historic dark ages) but have not played it yet. 

I tried to play [i]Scions of Fate[/i], but after a number of confirmation requests from their automatons, I've heard nothing back, so to hell with them.

Two other lackluster games for me were [i]Rappelz [/i]and [i]Rakion[/i]. The former was too choppy to be an enjoyable experience on my somewhat high-end lap top, and didn't have too much identity for me. The latter, was essentially like playing [i]Soul Caliber I[/i], only without the fun.

So the best I can say about the six MMOs I've reviewed: they are clean fun, with a lot of heart and a suprising amount of production value for a free product. I never once felt like I was playing a second-rate product, which sometimes chases more than a few shareware/freeware packages out there. [b]No bugs [/b]from what I could tell. It also serves as a dynamite way to meet up with friends, who want to do more than simply "chat" away the time. And these games are just as addictive as you, youself, allow them to be; a true "dopamine" goal for video game designers everywhere. Again, some of the subscribers to these games number into the [i]millions[/i].

The worst I can say: I am still relatively new with these "game worlds", but they seem to lack the depth of storytelling that say, WoW could afford. It's not through lack of interest or trying, some of these ([i]Shaiya, Mabinogi [/i]and [i]Sword[/i]... in particular) have a very strong storytelling premise with which to build, but I haven't seen them emerge in game play yet. THis may reveal itself over time, however.

Anyhow, I hope someone finds value in this as the point is to meet up with anyone who ventures into this gaming system, and earn some shared experience. They are quite a lot of fun, and let me tell you, if any of these had been around 10 or 15 years ago, I would never have left the dorm.



]]></description>
			<pubDate>Mon, 09 Feb 2009 10:46:46 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[I am a level 8 in Fiesta. I only play once or twice a week. I use the top server, Bijou. From what I can tell you can only use the server you first chose. My character name is the same as my CCL name. DO you plan on playing through all of those games or just your favorites. Cuz even one MMO can take a lifetime. I am interested in some of the other games that Outspark had on their site, like the FPS that is coming soon called Blackshot as well as the other JRPG Secret of the Solstice. I know once the beta for Blackshot opens I will get it, SotS is already ative, I am just deciding whether or not to interrupt Fiesta, it looks like I would enjoy it more.

How goes Lost Odyssey? I have gone back to playing Need for Speed and Rock Band a good bit, but I am playing Fiesta here and there and Star Ocean 1 on my PSP.]]></description>
			<pubDate>Tue, 10 Feb 2009 13:05:26 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[Fiesta would be a good team play, so I'll keep an eye out for you when I log in next. I've been playing in Perfect World more frequently, partly to hear the killer opening track at login.

Bijou sounds about right... the [i]first [/i]server, correct?

I have LO, and most XBox games for the MMOs... I'll return once I get more experience with these online games.]]></description>
			<pubDate>Tue, 10 Feb 2009 13:28:03 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[Yeah Bijou is the first server. It's also the name of a legendary movie theater here in Greenville that was closed down shortly after Hannibal came through. I miss the Bijou.]]></description>
			<pubDate>Thu, 12 Feb 2009 14:51:06 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[Been really getting into The Last Remnant.  I really enjoy the characters in the story (the Generals and David).  Finally getting the hang of the combat, I think.  Once you start to understand it it's not so overwhelming, but it took a bit to get to that point, especially once it starts letting you form your own unions.  I was totally confused there.

I am a little confused by some of the attributes that keep leveling up, like Gluttony (maybe it affects the amount of items they take to level up their equipment?), Love (Emma has this), and other strange assorted things.  

It's a really beautiful game; the graphics are amazing.  And now that I've loaded the disc onto the HD it plays better.  There's still some lag and some absurd load screens, but it's loads better.

Oh, I do think I should point out that I'm not a fan of the critical trigger system.  The game feels like it lags sometimes, and it throws things off.  Plus it draws your eyes to the center of the screen through the whole combat, and it makes me feel very cross-eyed.  I'm not one to want my screen cluttered, but I feel it's [i]too[/i] small.  

I know you can set it on auto.  Though I doubt this makes it auto crit every time; more likely it randomly decides the success rate since that's how these things usually work, which means you're probably better off doing it manually even if you're awful.  ]]></description>
			<pubDate>Mon, 16 Feb 2009 13:12:53 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[Yeah I have had similar issues with Last Remnant, still a cool story an worth playing. I've been distracted some with other games, I just finished all of Need for Speed Undercover with 810 ach. points.

And now I am hooked on a new Japanese title called Onechanbara: Bikini Samurai Squad. Gotta be one of the bloodiest games I have played. I doubt it's your think Krissy but it being Japanese I am sure you have at least heard of it. Very fun for the bloodfest zombie killing fans.

Also Street Fighter IV ............ oh man, I am 16 again. The end boss though is HARD.]]></description>
			<pubDate>Tue, 17 Feb 2009 01:00:23 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[It's hard NOT to hear of it.  Video games still being mostly a male medium, bikini clad samurais get more coverage than they probably should.]]></description>
			<pubDate>Tue, 17 Feb 2009 10:04:03 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[OK I found something I really absolutely hate about Last Remnant's combat system.

I hate that if your union defeats an enemy union before each PC has taken an action, that the untaken actions are wasted.  They go away.  I think that if I still have actions left after defeating a union, and another enemy union engages me, that I should be able to use those actions against the other union.  So I'm not talking about running across the battlefield to attack an enemy engaging someone else; I just don't like that your actions are axed so you just stand there while another unit pummels you.  

Given how long combat can take in this game, I think allowing this rather obvious inclusion to the battle system would make a huge difference.  Typically when you play a turn based game like this, if the enemy you were targeting falls, then your attack moves to the next available enemy.  You don't just...not take an action.  

So yeah, that really bugs me.]]></description>
			<pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2009 11:33:17 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[[quote=KrisEllieOphi]It's hard NOT to hear of it.  Video games still being mostly a male medium, bikini clad samurais get more coverage than they probably should.[/quote]

Well I wasn't sure how much press it was getting which is why I said that. I know GI covered it a little. I am always going to EBs website and looking up upcoming games so I can know what to look for. They have customer reviews, or predictions, screenshots and some have trailer vids. I liked what I saw with Onechanbara, mostly the bloody part, the bikinis are just a plus. :-d ]]></description>
			<pubDate>Sun, 01 Mar 2009 19:13:52 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[Ah...I realized I made a pun.  I must be really tired because I'm finding myself hilarious.

That bikini clad samurais are getting more coverage than they probably should. Haha.....

OK maybe not as funny as I thought.]]></description>
			<pubDate>Mon, 02 Mar 2009 01:00:05 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[Actually that is funny, now all we need is a nude code like Tomb Raider rumorly had.

First impression of Star Ocean 3.

I play the first 30 min. Much like I have heard about Xenosaga (alas I never got to play that game but I hear they were awesome) there is a lot of video so far. The acting is typical anime jestery. I hear it gets more serious down the road though. My racing obsession has me running through the Burnout Paradise Boxset right now, and Street Fighter IV keeps calling my name, but RPG's are getting nigh for me, with my new job I can tell I will be more focused during my free time so I can see me grabbing a couple hours in a RPG before capping the night off with some Stargate SG1 (never watched it, so I got all 10 seasons of it, and all of Atlantis). Thanks to Tommy it will be Farscape after that and THEN my new manager has me damn interested in Battlestar Galactica .......... So many TV episodes and video games, so little time. But hey, I am making a$$ loads of money now ............ new car here I come.


I know, I rant, sue me.]]></description>
			<pubDate>Mon, 02 Mar 2009 21:49:41 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[Bump that Battlestar up to the top, because it's totally the best out of that.  :)

I'm pretty sure the Xenosaga games are still scattered around.  I always see some of them on the shelf at GameStop.  Pick them up if you see them anywhere.  The first and third were great, the second less so.  But the story as a whole was really cool.]]></description>
			<pubDate>Tue, 03 Mar 2009 21:50:36 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[Well to pick up 2 months later.....

I am in seas 7 of Stargate SG1

I bought a DS and got FF III and a bunch of other games, and just for the hell of it I bought The World Ends with You today, I haven't played it yet but I will tonight.]]></description>
			<pubDate>Thu, 07 May 2009 15:41:58 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[Oh, oh, OH!  The World Ends With You.  I think you will love it.  The music is one of the best parts of the game.  But it's all wonderful - story, game play, etc.]]></description>
			<pubDate>Wed, 20 May 2009 19:20:13 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[I've gotten through a couple levels of it, it's a different game but I am liking it. I am also greatly anticipating FF Dissidea for PSP. :-d :-d :-d :-d :-d ]]></description>
			<pubDate>Mon, 25 May 2009 03:49:05 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[[quote=Oriasten]I've gotten through a couple levels of it, it's a different game but I am liking it. I am also greatly anticipating FF Dissidea for PSP. :-d :-d :-d :-d :-d [/quote]

I can not wait for FF Dissidea. From what I read it could shape up to be a good game.
]]></description>
			<pubDate>Wed, 03 Jun 2009 10:53:16 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[I would just like to say....

The new Kingdom Hearts game is a blast.  It's great to be playing a (good) Kingdom Hearts game again!]]></description>
			<pubDate>Wed, 30 Sep 2009 21:54:10 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[I was sucked into WoW ........ so ......... it IS an RPG ....... saw this thread just sitting here so I thought I would drop in to say.


WoW has me.]]></description>
			<pubDate>Thu, 05 Nov 2009 19:56:53 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[I haven't finished a RPG since FFX dropped eons ago, I bought FFXII but hated it.

I hope the PS3 gets some RPGs soon.]]></description>
			<pubDate>Thu, 05 Nov 2009 20:07:19 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[Upcoming (hopefully awesome) RPGs (though I don't know the platforms...the 360 at the very least, since that's what I'm watching).

Alpha Protocol (like Mass Effect, but with modern day spies...and Obsidian)
FFXIII
Mass Effect 2
End of Eternity
Fragile: Farewell Ruins of the Moon (Wii exclusive)
Golden Sun (DS)

And Dragon Age just came out.

Dragon Age is totally kicking my ass.
]]></description>
			<pubDate>Sun, 08 Nov 2009 21:33:01 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[I picked up [b]Dragon Age[/b] the day it hit but I'm not sure when I'll get to it. I just finished [b]Bioshock[/b] finally. Awesome game.

Thinking about playing [b]Risen[/b] next.

b-) ]]></description>
			<pubDate>Sun, 08 Nov 2009 22:06:55 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[Dragon Age has AWESOME writing.
I think I spent like 2 hours today just talking with my party members.  They had a TON to say.  And it's well written and well voiced.  I even got all giddy when Alistair kissed me.  He's hilarious and so adorable.]]></description>
			<pubDate>Thu, 12 Nov 2009 22:44:38 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[Heh. I think Alistair is a boob.

But I didn't step in to poke fun... I was curious if anyone here has ever participated (or even heard) of LARPs. More specifically, NERO.

I ask because I just finished watching [i]Monster Camp[/i] and if you haven;t seen it, everyone who frequents this thread owes it to shimself to watch it. At the very least for entertainment value (because of all the hidden truths oft associated with RPG gameplay). At the very most, it is... interesting. 

Hence my question. I have a brother-in-law who frequents these events, and before I poke his brain and pass any judgments, I was wondering what anyone here had to say about it. ]]></description>
			<pubDate>Mon, 25 Jan 2010 19:50:55 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[Only 18 days until FF XIII comes out. I can not wait!!!]]></description>
			<pubDate>Fri, 19 Feb 2010 14:29:04 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[[quote=Dementia5]Heh. I think Alistair is a boob.

But I didn't step in to poke fun... I was curious if anyone here has ever participated (or even heard) of LARPs. More specifically, NERO.

I ask because I just finished watching [i]Monster Camp[/i] and if you haven;t seen it, everyone who frequents this thread owes it to shimself to watch it. At the very least for entertainment value (because of all the hidden truths oft associated with RPG gameplay). At the very most, it is... interesting. 

Hence my question. I have a brother-in-law who frequents these events, and before I poke his brain and pass any judgments, I was wondering what anyone here had to say about it. [/quote]

I've both played in and run LARPs in the past.  When I've run, it's been a home brew system for Cons, run for 3 days straight (night and day).  

I've played in Con LARPs and briefly in an OWD Vampire one.  I'm being recruited to join a local Requiem LARP ATM.  I'm not familiar with NERO, so I can't say anything about it.

I haven't seen Monster Camp either.  Guess I'll have something to look for now.]]></description>
			<pubDate>Fri, 19 Feb 2010 17:42:48 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[Oh...I watched a documentary about a LARP group.  It was pretty interesting.  Let me see if I can dig it up....
DARKON
You can get it on Netflix.]]></description>
			<pubDate>Sun, 28 Feb 2010 13:07:28 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[I love Alistair even if hes a boob and constantly making cheese references.

I'm trying to set up a LARP but my partner helping set it up is complicating things so.....i doubt it.
we were going to do a zombie larp with the option of being dead/alive/and a few random special infected with a few humans able to do cooler things.]]></description>
			<pubDate>Fri, 26 Mar 2010 18:20:57 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[[quote=ChubbyxLilxStar]I love Alistair even if hes a boob and constantly making cheese references.

I'm trying to set up a LARP but my partner helping set it up is complicating things so.....i doubt it.
we were going to do a zombie larp with the option of being dead/alive/and a few random special infected with a few humans able to do cooler things.[/quote]

Hehe sounds like an opportunity for good theatre.

Sounds like [b]JRaup [/b]has drank from the LARP cool-aid. I don't know about NY, but there is a good following here in MA. I have to admit I am interested, but it sounds like an awful big committment. I would probably play the part of an NPC, so that I could "rest" between rounds more frequently (after being defeated, I presume).

]]></description>
			<pubDate>Fri, 26 Mar 2010 19:25:06 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[[quote=Dementia5][quote=ChubbyxLilxStar]I love Alistair even if hes a boob and constantly making cheese references.

I'm trying to set up a LARP but my partner helping set it up is complicating things so.....i doubt it.
we were going to do a zombie larp with the option of being dead/alive/and a few random special infected with a few humans able to do cooler things.[/quote]

Hehe sounds like an opportunity for good theatre.

Sounds like [b]JRaup [/b]has drank from the LARP cool-aid. I don't know about NY, but there is a good following here in MA. I have to admit I am interested, but it sounds like an awful big committment. I would probably play the part of an NPC, so that I could "rest" between rounds more frequently (after being defeated, I presume).

[/quote]

*HIC*Who me?*HIC*

Requiem, the succesor to V:TM is quite popular around here.  Players even travel around to other LARP groups in VT, NYC, and Syracuse.  There's some relationship with the Boston crowd as well, but I don't know what it is.]]></description>
			<pubDate>Fri, 26 Mar 2010 19:27:23 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[I beat Mass Effect 2 tonight.  WOW is all I have to say.

And I applaud the Bioware team for having its characters have "OH SH-" moments a split second after I have my own (quite loud) "OH SH-" moments.]]></description>
			<pubDate>Fri, 26 Mar 2010 23:12:28 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[[quote=KrisEllieOphi]I beat Mass Effect 2 tonight.  WOW is all I have to say.

And I applaud the Bioware team for having its characters have "OH SH-" moments a split second after I have my own (quite loud) "OH SH-" moments.[/quote]
I can't wait for ME3!]]></description>
			<pubDate>Fri, 26 Mar 2010 23:14:16 GMT</pubDate>
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			<description><![CDATA[[quote=KrisEllieOphi]I beat Mass Effect 2 tonight.  WOW is all I have to say.

And I applaud the Bioware team for having its characters have "OH SH-" moments a split second after I have my own (quite loud) "OH SH-" moments.[/quote]

It's good to hear. I haven't even opened mine yet, but I'll tell you I [i]am [/i]worried about how the gameplay has unapologetically strayed away from the RPG elements into the realm of another shooter. ]]></description>
			<pubDate>Sat, 27 Mar 2010 09:39:28 GMT</pubDate>
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			<title>The OFFICIAL RPG thread</title>
			<link>http://www.comiccollectorlive.com/Forum/framehelper.aspx?g=posts&amp;t=12874</link>
			<description><![CDATA[Yeah, that really bothered me at first.  I was pretty upset at how it moved closer toward a shooter game, and it has me worried about ME3.  But the writing and story and characters are all just so amazing, that I forget I was angry about the changes to the cover system, and how the ammo system went a step backwards without explanation (unlimited ammo but overheating weapons in the first game, to ammo clips in the second...technology isn't supposed to go backwards! Fortunately I rarely found myself out of ammo; it's quite plentiful.). Those are the biggest changes to combat.  They fixed some other stuff; like now your sniper rifle doesn't waggle all over the place while you're trying to target someone.   
The other really big changes were to the inventory/weapon/armor systems and the skills system.  It's super duper streamlined now.  There basically isn't an inventory anymore.  While I felt the first game was a little excessive, to cut it out almost entirely didn't sit well with me either.  Wish they had gone for something more in the middle, instead of going so extreme.  ]]></description>
			<pubDate>Sat, 27 Mar 2010 22:37:24 GMT</pubDate>
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			<title>The OFFICIAL RPG thread</title>
			<link>http://www.comiccollectorlive.com/Forum/framehelper.aspx?g=posts&amp;t=12874</link>
			<description><![CDATA[Keep it coming, I can;t afford an emotional loss if I were to believe that ME2 was somehow lacking.

BTW, I came across Last Remnant for $12. Thoughts?]]></description>
			<pubDate>Sat, 27 Mar 2010 22:58:02 GMT</pubDate>
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