I get asked a lot of questions about my work from time to time. Let me be honest, I love to give insight about what I'm allowed to talk about when it comes to Gamestop. I do give my opinion about how I feel being employed there. Every now and then, a nice little argument starts up about one service we offer in particular..
Reserving a game.
Now ever since the Gamestop was established where I live, I've been reserving from them. I really don't regret it. For some reason or another, people are indifferent about reserving. I can't count how many times I've wanted to slap someone from behind the counter cause they wanted to buy "Insert Grade A Tittle Here" on day one, but we were out of stock. Then I ask "Why didn't you reserve it?", to which they reply with a blank face and say "I thought you'd have extras." I also can't keep count how many times people ask for the reservation gift or premium and they didn't reserve the game.
Honestly, how hard is it to put 5 bucks down on a game you know you want to get on day 1 that also comes with a gift? It goes towards the purchase, so you aren't paying extra. Your game is held for 48 hours after release, unless you ask otherwise. I wouldn't call it shenanigans, it's a pretty viable system. Even if you read reviews the day before the game comes out, you can get your money back with however you paid for it. "Ta-frickin-da!" We even have an automated system where you get a call, an email, or txt the day before your game comes out. So that way, you don't forget you reserved it.
In some cases, there have been rare mishaps, but they've been fixed. Not getting a call, or the reservation was on the wrong game. We'll go as far as needed to get your transaction right and make sure you walk out happy.
Seriously, reserving is as easy as 1, 2, 3. No matter who you reserve from, it's beneficial for games you know are going to be hard to get and you want. We understand if it's something you aren't sure of. And I don't know about other Gamestop employees, but if you say no, then you got it. UNLESS you are examples I've mentioned above. Then I try my best to help you realize the consequences of the examples.
Friday, July 29, 2011
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Magic Can Happen To You!
Seriously. It can. When you consider getting a reply from the one and only Steve Blum about an interview! Ladies and Gentlemen, I was able to come through for you. Here's what you've been waiting for.
Femmefatality07: Toonami Aftermath does a great job providing nostalgia for longtime fans. What are your thoughts on toon's, our fearless leader, dedication to the stream?
Steve Blum: I’m grateful that a new generation has a place to experience the Toonami goodness and that the OG fans have an opportunity to relive it. Seems like an awful lot of work, but I would guess there’s a huge, happy audience out there because of your efforts.
FF07: A lot of us grew up with Toonami. When the fans come up to you saying "Steve Blum, you were TOM. I love you!" what's going through your head?
Steve Blum: It’s kind of surreal, actually. I recorded TOM’s V/O in a small studio, over the phone with my pals in Atlanta. I was far removed from the broadcast itself and even the animation process of TOM, Sara and the Absolution. A few years ago at a convention panel, when a fan told me I (TOM) basically raised him and that my voice was a huge part of his childhood – I actually felt a little sick inside. I had no idea how huge an impact our programming block had had on quite literally a generation of viewers. The responsibility was overwhelming and the only thing I could think of was that I hoped I had provided a good influence - and that not too much homework was left undone because of me. Since then, I’ve let myself enjoy the love and I make it a point to thank Toonami viewers… and to apologize to their parents, just in case.
FF07: What was it like working with Sean Akins and Jason DeMarco for Toonami?
Steve Blum: They were the heart, mind and soul of Toonami, period. I was and continue to be in awe of those guys. I uttered the words they provided, loved what I understood of their vision, and worked very hard to make sure I did my part to help them realize that vision. Half the time I had no idea what I was talking about, especially during the game reviews. I’m not a gamer, so I had to rely on them completely for literally all content. Not only were they the geniuses behind the entire program, but they could play video games in their offices, direct me and run a company simultaneously! Nothin’ but love and respect for Sean, Jason and the entire crew.
FF07: There were a few reasons Toonami was taken off air, and it was a hurtful blow to the faithful. If you had a say in it's existence, would you have taken it in a different direction?
Steve Blum: Again, I was only the voice monkey. I was never involved in any decisions regarding Toonami’s operation. If I had anything to say at all, it would’ve been to ask the Network to let the guys do what they proved they could do so well and to give them the funding and programming they needed to make it grow. They had some incredible plans for the future. They simply didn’t have the support to make it happen. I may never know the politics behind Toonami’s demise, but it sure made us all sad.
FF07: Did you ever think you'd be going from reviewing Super Mario Sunshine as TOM to delivering lines for Grayson Hunt in Bulletstorm?
Steve Blum: Ha ha ha! It was actually an easier transition than you might think. A lot of foul, hilarious stuff went on behind the scenes – and still often does. Bulletstorm and gigs of that ilk simply allowed me to free the beast. I can easily and very naturally censor myself when kids are involved, but the naughty is always in there, waitin’ to spew.
FF07: How is your relationship with Cartoon Network?
Steve Blum: I love the people at Cartoon Network. Some of the best stuff I’ve ever gotten to work on happened there. I haven’t always agreed with the way the corporate machine operates, but who am I to question what they think is best for the company? I have no idea what it takes to run a Network and have to respect their decisions. They’ve always been good to me, and the people I work with directly at CN are magnificent humans. I’ll always be very grateful for any opportunity to work there.
The following are some fun questions from other ToonamiAftermath members.
FF07: It was so cool to hear your voice coming from Cyrus in Warhammer 40,000. Are you a fan of the video game or tabletop game?
Steve Blum: Heh – again, I’m not a gamer, but it sure looks (and sounds) like fun, and was a lot of fun to work on. Always good to be a badass. Thankful that you enjoy it!!
FF07: How did you feel about taking on Wolverine for Wolverine and the X-Men?
Steve Blum: You kiddin, bub?! Like one hell of a happy freekin’ mutant, that’s how! I’ve been a Wolverine fan for years. To play him made me have to create a new bucket list. The awesomeness of that one character exceeded all expectations I had for my career. It took a while to even open myself up to the possibility of anything more satisfying. Still gives me chills. Be still, my Adamantium heart.
FF07: Is there a comic book character that you would love to bring to life?
Steve Blum: I’ve gotten to play so many that I never imagined I would… don’t wanna jinx it. I like surprises. Grateful for every role I get.
FF07: Are there VA's out there that have helped you get to where you are today? Anything they've said that kept you going or just brought a smile to your face?
Steve Blum: So many – not enough space here to even list them all. Early on, of course, Mel Blanc. Never met him, but wow… just… wow. I contacted Jack Angel and Bob Bergen online - They listened to my demo tape (yes, tape) and walked it into my agency. I will always be grateful to them for believing in me when I was just learning how. Jack taught me to enjoy the process… and that the audition was actually the job. The booking was the gravy. That stuck with me. Bob let me observe him working and was incredibly kind to me. What a brilliant, decent dude. He still jokingly refers to me as his stalker.
Frank Welker. Massive fan of his work. When I finally met him, he was not only every bit the genius I had imagined, but a really, really nice man to boot. Still one of my favorite people in the industry. Another creature master and amazing, wonderful guy… Dee Bradley Baker. My friends Doug Stone, Dave Mallow, Mona Marshall, Michael Sorich, Bridget Hoffman and Lia Sargent were huge influences when I was learning how to dub. The incredibly talented Mary Elisabeth McGlynn - who convinced me I was actually an actor…And even now, I learn something from all of my colleagues every time I work. I am amazed and highly entertained every time I walk into a booth. I could literally go on for days gushing about the wonderful people in this industry.
FF07: Anything you'd like to say to Zipper from NeoToonami or toon from ToonamiAftermath?
Steve Blum: Thank you so much for continuing to breathe life into this incredible universe that has given so many of us a lifetime of happy memories. Toonami will never be over because people like you and me say so. Stay Gold, beautiful people. Bang.
p.s. Special thanks to Ashley Johnson for being my stalker. Without you, this interview wouldn't have happened.
Sweet Sassy Molassy! Im officially a stalker! Too bad it doesn't pay well. Here you have it ToonamiAftermath, NeoToonami, and followers of my blog. Big thanks to Steve Blum for taking time to reply! Also big thanks for those who believed in me. You know who you are. By the way "user", our bet is at a standstill. I still have 2 years, right?
Femmefatality07: Toonami Aftermath does a great job providing nostalgia for longtime fans. What are your thoughts on toon's, our fearless leader, dedication to the stream?
Steve Blum: I’m grateful that a new generation has a place to experience the Toonami goodness and that the OG fans have an opportunity to relive it. Seems like an awful lot of work, but I would guess there’s a huge, happy audience out there because of your efforts.
FF07: A lot of us grew up with Toonami. When the fans come up to you saying "Steve Blum, you were TOM. I love you!" what's going through your head?
Steve Blum: It’s kind of surreal, actually. I recorded TOM’s V/O in a small studio, over the phone with my pals in Atlanta. I was far removed from the broadcast itself and even the animation process of TOM, Sara and the Absolution. A few years ago at a convention panel, when a fan told me I (TOM) basically raised him and that my voice was a huge part of his childhood – I actually felt a little sick inside. I had no idea how huge an impact our programming block had had on quite literally a generation of viewers. The responsibility was overwhelming and the only thing I could think of was that I hoped I had provided a good influence - and that not too much homework was left undone because of me. Since then, I’ve let myself enjoy the love and I make it a point to thank Toonami viewers… and to apologize to their parents, just in case.
FF07: What was it like working with Sean Akins and Jason DeMarco for Toonami?
Steve Blum: They were the heart, mind and soul of Toonami, period. I was and continue to be in awe of those guys. I uttered the words they provided, loved what I understood of their vision, and worked very hard to make sure I did my part to help them realize that vision. Half the time I had no idea what I was talking about, especially during the game reviews. I’m not a gamer, so I had to rely on them completely for literally all content. Not only were they the geniuses behind the entire program, but they could play video games in their offices, direct me and run a company simultaneously! Nothin’ but love and respect for Sean, Jason and the entire crew.
FF07: There were a few reasons Toonami was taken off air, and it was a hurtful blow to the faithful. If you had a say in it's existence, would you have taken it in a different direction?
Steve Blum: Again, I was only the voice monkey. I was never involved in any decisions regarding Toonami’s operation. If I had anything to say at all, it would’ve been to ask the Network to let the guys do what they proved they could do so well and to give them the funding and programming they needed to make it grow. They had some incredible plans for the future. They simply didn’t have the support to make it happen. I may never know the politics behind Toonami’s demise, but it sure made us all sad.
FF07: Did you ever think you'd be going from reviewing Super Mario Sunshine as TOM to delivering lines for Grayson Hunt in Bulletstorm?
Steve Blum: Ha ha ha! It was actually an easier transition than you might think. A lot of foul, hilarious stuff went on behind the scenes – and still often does. Bulletstorm and gigs of that ilk simply allowed me to free the beast. I can easily and very naturally censor myself when kids are involved, but the naughty is always in there, waitin’ to spew.
FF07: How is your relationship with Cartoon Network?
Steve Blum: I love the people at Cartoon Network. Some of the best stuff I’ve ever gotten to work on happened there. I haven’t always agreed with the way the corporate machine operates, but who am I to question what they think is best for the company? I have no idea what it takes to run a Network and have to respect their decisions. They’ve always been good to me, and the people I work with directly at CN are magnificent humans. I’ll always be very grateful for any opportunity to work there.
The following are some fun questions from other ToonamiAftermath members.
FF07: It was so cool to hear your voice coming from Cyrus in Warhammer 40,000. Are you a fan of the video game or tabletop game?
Steve Blum: Heh – again, I’m not a gamer, but it sure looks (and sounds) like fun, and was a lot of fun to work on. Always good to be a badass. Thankful that you enjoy it!!
FF07: How did you feel about taking on Wolverine for Wolverine and the X-Men?
Steve Blum: You kiddin, bub?! Like one hell of a happy freekin’ mutant, that’s how! I’ve been a Wolverine fan for years. To play him made me have to create a new bucket list. The awesomeness of that one character exceeded all expectations I had for my career. It took a while to even open myself up to the possibility of anything more satisfying. Still gives me chills. Be still, my Adamantium heart.
FF07: Is there a comic book character that you would love to bring to life?
Steve Blum: I’ve gotten to play so many that I never imagined I would… don’t wanna jinx it. I like surprises. Grateful for every role I get.
FF07: Are there VA's out there that have helped you get to where you are today? Anything they've said that kept you going or just brought a smile to your face?
Steve Blum: So many – not enough space here to even list them all. Early on, of course, Mel Blanc. Never met him, but wow… just… wow. I contacted Jack Angel and Bob Bergen online - They listened to my demo tape (yes, tape) and walked it into my agency. I will always be grateful to them for believing in me when I was just learning how. Jack taught me to enjoy the process… and that the audition was actually the job. The booking was the gravy. That stuck with me. Bob let me observe him working and was incredibly kind to me. What a brilliant, decent dude. He still jokingly refers to me as his stalker.
Frank Welker. Massive fan of his work. When I finally met him, he was not only every bit the genius I had imagined, but a really, really nice man to boot. Still one of my favorite people in the industry. Another creature master and amazing, wonderful guy… Dee Bradley Baker. My friends Doug Stone, Dave Mallow, Mona Marshall, Michael Sorich, Bridget Hoffman and Lia Sargent were huge influences when I was learning how to dub. The incredibly talented Mary Elisabeth McGlynn - who convinced me I was actually an actor…And even now, I learn something from all of my colleagues every time I work. I am amazed and highly entertained every time I walk into a booth. I could literally go on for days gushing about the wonderful people in this industry.
FF07: Anything you'd like to say to Zipper from NeoToonami or toon from ToonamiAftermath?
Steve Blum: Thank you so much for continuing to breathe life into this incredible universe that has given so many of us a lifetime of happy memories. Toonami will never be over because people like you and me say so. Stay Gold, beautiful people. Bang.
p.s. Special thanks to Ashley Johnson for being my stalker. Without you, this interview wouldn't have happened.
Sweet Sassy Molassy! Im officially a stalker! Too bad it doesn't pay well. Here you have it ToonamiAftermath, NeoToonami, and followers of my blog. Big thanks to Steve Blum for taking time to reply! Also big thanks for those who believed in me. You know who you are. By the way "user", our bet is at a standstill. I still have 2 years, right?
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Set In Stone
You know, I have a hard time committing myself to something. Yes, I know. I probably spend more time with video games over anything else that's important in my life. Or even the stream.
"What is this stream you speak of?"
Sorry. My apologies. I was referring to Toonami Aftermath. One of my earlier posts below.
But I have to say it's brought the best for me this year and last year. Very great guys/gals. Everyone is friendly and the nostalgia is well worth it. The members become your family in a sense.
Now that we've established the history and background, let me tell you about a wonderful afternoon. It all starts with jumping back onto the stream while job hunting. Someone linked me a very creepy horror film trailer. Well, I admit. I can play any messed up game out there, sans-diapers, but I can't take it in a movie. So I go off on to YouTube to find something to distract myself. Lately, I've been watching interviews with VA's. I mean, come on. Pure talent. I also admit to this big crush on Steve Blum. Great guy, great personality, great looks. QUICK! FLASHBACK!
A while back, another YouTube user and myself had a lovely debate (That's putting it mildly) about both NeoToonami and Toonami Aftermath. This was on a Steve Blum video, in which he was told about both sites. He's got a little more insight on NeoToonami.
Trust me, you'll need to know that as well. So as I'm watching these other vids, I brought up Blum in chat and told about something I hope to do in the future.
Interview Steve Blum and get a shout out for Toonami Aftermath. Now, here are the results with another user.
7/20/2011 -1:14pm-
1:14: Femmefatality07: One day, maybe I'll get to interview Steve Blum and get a shout out for TA. :)
1:14: User: llzfemme
1:17: Femmefatality07: OK "user". I'd like to make a bet with you. If I ever meet Blum and interview him, AND get him to give his honest opinion about NeoToonami and TA, would you bet against it?
1:17: User: well, seeing as how he hasn't been on TA nor heard about it, sure! Why not? And if I win, you gotta admit I'm your type! (inside joke) :)
1:19: Femmefatality07: Fine. Give me 2 years!
Now I sit here, thinking if it's possible to get this interview. I mean, it is. I'm sure that Steve wouldn't mind taking 5 minutes out of his busy schedule to do so. This has to be in person, or it doesn't count. 2 years to find a convention (Not the ones I normally attend) and meet Mr. Blum. Give him a lil info on both sites, and get that shout out. Provided I don't faint before it's over. It isn't impossible, no? :)
"What is this stream you speak of?"
Sorry. My apologies. I was referring to Toonami Aftermath. One of my earlier posts below.
But I have to say it's brought the best for me this year and last year. Very great guys/gals. Everyone is friendly and the nostalgia is well worth it. The members become your family in a sense.
Now that we've established the history and background, let me tell you about a wonderful afternoon. It all starts with jumping back onto the stream while job hunting. Someone linked me a very creepy horror film trailer. Well, I admit. I can play any messed up game out there, sans-diapers, but I can't take it in a movie. So I go off on to YouTube to find something to distract myself. Lately, I've been watching interviews with VA's. I mean, come on. Pure talent. I also admit to this big crush on Steve Blum. Great guy, great personality, great looks. QUICK! FLASHBACK!
A while back, another YouTube user and myself had a lovely debate (That's putting it mildly) about both NeoToonami and Toonami Aftermath. This was on a Steve Blum video, in which he was told about both sites. He's got a little more insight on NeoToonami.
Trust me, you'll need to know that as well. So as I'm watching these other vids, I brought up Blum in chat and told about something I hope to do in the future.
Interview Steve Blum and get a shout out for Toonami Aftermath. Now, here are the results with another user.
7/20/2011 -1:14pm-
1:14: Femmefatality07: One day, maybe I'll get to interview Steve Blum and get a shout out for TA. :)
1:14: User: llzfemme
1:17: Femmefatality07: OK "user". I'd like to make a bet with you. If I ever meet Blum and interview him, AND get him to give his honest opinion about NeoToonami and TA, would you bet against it?
1:17: User: well, seeing as how he hasn't been on TA nor heard about it, sure! Why not? And if I win, you gotta admit I'm your type! (inside joke) :)
1:19: Femmefatality07: Fine. Give me 2 years!
Now I sit here, thinking if it's possible to get this interview. I mean, it is. I'm sure that Steve wouldn't mind taking 5 minutes out of his busy schedule to do so. This has to be in person, or it doesn't count. 2 years to find a convention (Not the ones I normally attend) and meet Mr. Blum. Give him a lil info on both sites, and get that shout out. Provided I don't faint before it's over. It isn't impossible, no? :)
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Getting Back On Track
Don't you love waking in the wee early hours and thinking "I haven't done "insert random and forgotten activity" in a while..."? Suddenly, you find yourself doing that exact thing for no paticular reason, just because it was the first thing to come to mind. I mean, it happens on so many occasions, and-
Oh wait.
Time for me to get back on track. I believe I was satisfied with the few games I was able to attend the midnight for. This year could be totally different. Maybe I'll throw out reviews after a few hours of playing a game that obtained "midnight release status". Not to mention bringing more pics and interaction to the table. I leave you with my short statement and a list of games to be on the lookout for. The majority will for sure have a midnight release.
-Dragon Age 2
-Mortal Kombat
-L.A. Noire
-Batman: Arkham City
-Gears of War 3
-Elders Scrolls V: Skyrim
-Uncharted 3: Drake's Deception
Honorable Mentions:
-Marvel vs Capcom 3
-Killzone 3
-Portal 2
-Duke Nukem Forever
-Pokemon: Black/White
-Dungeon Siege III
-Silent Hill: Downpour
-Mass Effect 3
-Infamous 2
-The Last Guardian
-Dissidia 012
Oh wait.
Time for me to get back on track. I believe I was satisfied with the few games I was able to attend the midnight for. This year could be totally different. Maybe I'll throw out reviews after a few hours of playing a game that obtained "midnight release status". Not to mention bringing more pics and interaction to the table. I leave you with my short statement and a list of games to be on the lookout for. The majority will for sure have a midnight release.
-Dragon Age 2
-Mortal Kombat
-L.A. Noire
-Batman: Arkham City
-Gears of War 3
-Elders Scrolls V: Skyrim
-Uncharted 3: Drake's Deception
Honorable Mentions:
-Marvel vs Capcom 3
-Killzone 3
-Portal 2
-Duke Nukem Forever
-Pokemon: Black/White
-Dungeon Siege III
-Silent Hill: Downpour
-Mass Effect 3
-Infamous 2
-The Last Guardian
-Dissidia 012
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Assassins Creed: Brotherhood
Whoa. I know I'm late on this one. You'll have to forgive me. If anything, I spent the past few days on and off with this game. At least you know it's worth a shot.
I was skeptical at first, but knowing that a handful of my friends were getting this, I was pretty much convinced to just pay for it and get it done. Having another Assassin's Creed title within a year of it's previous installment left me wondering. If anything, the midnight was somewhat amusing. This time, I have pictures!
Around 9:45pm, I headed up to work and saw that a few customers were soliciting in front of our store. Im not sure what bothered me most: The heavy metal booming from a black car parked right in front or the saliva drooling from guys staring at my...hoodie. They had every right. I'll show you the picture when I get a good shot of myself in it. I walked in, said hi to my co-workers. And was handed my number.
Lucky number 7. Oh yeah. I mean, nothing could go wrong after that. I could tell, cause I actually filled out an application for IBC Banking that same day. Within hours, I was told I had a new job. Imagine my suprise. I'll be happy to highlight the pro's of my new job in a future post. My better half showed up 5 minutes later after I was discussing the changes and job with my boss. I wasn't sure of his reaction since Black Friday followed next week. We waited for my buddy, Archangellus, who was working that night to take his lunch break. Wanna know what else was lucky about that?
With a full stummy, we headed back at around 10:45pm. "Vex" headed back home, deciding to play a game of League of Legends instead of waiting the next hour. "Arch" clocked back in and I spent a little more time hanging at the store. My manager got permission to let customers demo the game, which was awesome. The sneak peak drew in the "cool guys" hanging out in the front. Seriously, it was nice. It meant we didn't have to hear the disturbing metal rattling our windows.
Ten minutes till midnight, everyone started lining up. A decent turn-out came for Assassin's Creed and Need for Speed. What, Need for Speed, what? I was 7 of around 35 total customers for a joint midnight release. "Vex" was 11, standing not too far behind me. Chilling in line, I still had a few guys asking about my hoodie. In all honesty, an old co-worker gave it to me when he figured my store manager couldn't fit it. Oh, and no. That's not the reason he's an "old co-worker" as of now. 12 am struck, and we were handed our games. I'll let you know, there was plenty of street racing and backstabbing to be had in the following hours.
I was skeptical at first, but knowing that a handful of my friends were getting this, I was pretty much convinced to just pay for it and get it done. Having another Assassin's Creed title within a year of it's previous installment left me wondering. If anything, the midnight was somewhat amusing. This time, I have pictures!
Around 9:45pm, I headed up to work and saw that a few customers were soliciting in front of our store. Im not sure what bothered me most: The heavy metal booming from a black car parked right in front or the saliva drooling from guys staring at my...hoodie. They had every right. I'll show you the picture when I get a good shot of myself in it. I walked in, said hi to my co-workers. And was handed my number.
(Subtract one zero...oh yeah...)
Lucky number 7. Oh yeah. I mean, nothing could go wrong after that. I could tell, cause I actually filled out an application for IBC Banking that same day. Within hours, I was told I had a new job. Imagine my suprise. I'll be happy to highlight the pro's of my new job in a future post. My better half showed up 5 minutes later after I was discussing the changes and job with my boss. I wasn't sure of his reaction since Black Friday followed next week. We waited for my buddy, Archangellus, who was working that night to take his lunch break. Wanna know what else was lucky about that?
(Happy couple enjoying their Whataburger)
WHATABURGER!!! It's just so damn good. Seriously, all I need is Chick-Fil-A, Chipotle, and Whataburger around...and I'm pretty much hell bent on making it a lunch every week. What can I say? I love their sweet tea and breakfast taquitos. Ironically enough, we had Chick-Fil-A earlier, so I just sat down and enjoyed yet, another large sweet tea. Im not sure what's going to come first...diabetes or heart attack. It was a nice change rather then sitting up at the midnight release, waiting impatiently for a game. Also time spent well with our friend. Yes, that guy in the pic is better known as "SlayveX" I couldn't get a pic of Archangellus, only because I'm sure he doesn't want to be seen on the interwebs.With a full stummy, we headed back at around 10:45pm. "Vex" headed back home, deciding to play a game of League of Legends instead of waiting the next hour. "Arch" clocked back in and I spent a little more time hanging at the store. My manager got permission to let customers demo the game, which was awesome. The sneak peak drew in the "cool guys" hanging out in the front. Seriously, it was nice. It meant we didn't have to hear the disturbing metal rattling our windows.
Ten minutes till midnight, everyone started lining up. A decent turn-out came for Assassin's Creed and Need for Speed. What, Need for Speed, what? I was 7 of around 35 total customers for a joint midnight release. "Vex" was 11, standing not too far behind me. Chilling in line, I still had a few guys asking about my hoodie. In all honesty, an old co-worker gave it to me when he figured my store manager couldn't fit it. Oh, and no. That's not the reason he's an "old co-worker" as of now. 12 am struck, and we were handed our games. I'll let you know, there was plenty of street racing and backstabbing to be had in the following hours.
Friday, November 12, 2010
Toonami: This Is A Dedication
A dedication to that which contributed to my fascination with robots, dark crusaders, super powered aliens that defend the earth, and space outlaws.
A dedication to what allowed me to discover life in a digital mainframe, samurai's that are not what they seem, and...last but not least, Gorillaz and Daft Punk.
Just a tiny girl, donned in a baggy pair of JNCO jeans and a red polo shirt, stepping quickly down the bus steps. Her eyes watching for the signal to cross the street. As soon as the bus driver nods and waves her hands, she makes a mad dash to the front door, busts in, throws down her backpack in front of the entertainment center, and quickly turns on the tv to flip to Cartoon Network.
And so began...the best 3 hour block to ever exist.
My life had changed. I was slowly immersing myself into what other girls wouldn't usually be enlightened by. A block that started off with Moltar disrupting the usual programming to give us Toonami. And just when you thought it was good, Toonami changed after a successful two year run. Enter Absolution. A ship that was best used for broadcasting Toonami. Of course, the Absolution was not without it's host and pilot. TOM took over Moltar's job. A chubby robot who evolved over time and was the epitome of cool. Along with his AI partner, SARA, TOM made sure that the block was running smooth and delivering the best shows. Every day, something new. Every year, a new show. It was nothing but amazing. I loved it all. I couldn't wait every time the last hour of school rolled around. I wanted to get to my babysitters ASAP. I didn't want to miss the next episode. It was even better in the late hours. Not only could I catch my block after school, but after "going to bed", I was watching Toonami past 11pm. It was my night light. Just set the TV timer, and see if I could stay up long enough through Big O.
Robotech, Dragon Ball series, Gundam series, ReBoot, Ronin Warriors, Tenchi series, Batman, Outlaw Star, Big O, Zoids, .hack//SIGN, Neon Genesis Evnagelion, Rurouni Kenshin, Star Wars: Clone Wars (Shorts were so bad ass!). These were all shows I absolutely loved and remember watching.
Not only was Toonami my choice addiction when it came to t.v, it also drew its crowd in for interactive games and the cherished TIEs. The TIE's (Total Immersion Events) were what gave us a glimpse of who or what TOM and SARA were. It was up to the audience to decide on TOM's fate at one point, and help defend the ship against The Intruder. The games were fun. It felt like a child's version of a dark, horror story. Sure, that doesn't make sense to some. But others would remember. Others who were lucky to know what Toonami was can probably remember TOM's final cry out before he died.
One of my other favorite memories of Toonami was it's one-time air of Daft Punk and Gorillaz. I was sitting in the living room with my best friend and my somewhat inebriated father just mesmerized. Sure it was only two music videos from them, but I was immediately hooked. I had to go out and buy both albums. Interstella 5555 and Gorillaz are still my preferred choice of music to listen to.
There was much that I missed after growing up and finally not in need of a babysitter. Toonami was my only form of entertainment. That and A Sega Genesis with Sonic 2. Yes. I did indeed spend quality time with the blue hedgehog...enough time to beat the game 8 times. I shit you not. My babysitter remembered each time I ran in and said "I beat Sonic!" or "I beat Sonic again!" Years passed, and I was allowed to stay home by myself. Toonami became a side dish. My main dish were my video games and computer. It faded away as I developed more into who you now know as Femmefatality. It saddens me that I missed the final airing. It hurts even more knowing they killed off the best thing to come to American television for kids. Cartoon Network's policy of "Get rid of Anime programs" was the death of Toonami. A stab in the heart.
I searched online for some way to remember my childhood. As I did, I conversed with my boyfriend that if it was possible, I would collect every show that I loved and all the Toonami promos on a hard drive. It would be what our kids could watch while doing homework. I want them to experience what I was privileged to. When I thought it to be impossible and I would have to turn to the expensive way of doing it, a good friend of mines heard me out.
Toonamiaftermath.com
Not a day goes by when I'm not on that site. Remembering the good days.
This was my dedication to you Toonami. Stay golden.
Monday, November 8, 2010
Call of Duty: Black Ops
Surprisingly enough, CoD had half the crowd than last year from Modern Warfare 2. But all in all, a very good turnout. It peaked out at 300 numbers given out to hold a spot in line, and an estimated 60 stragglers that came at the last minute.
The numbers were given out, which started at 6pm, and a steady flow of customers came to pay off their game. Number 1 was sitting outside our door at 2:18pm. He was most determined, especially with how hot it was outside. To keep the energy going, NOS provided free cans of their awful energy drinks. No offense NOS, but they weren't being picked up fast.
Around 10:45pm, 190 numbers were handed out. The 1v1 tournament was the highlight of the entertainment. I followed Mr. 190 out the door to watch Modern Warfare 2 being played on two small flat screens. A good kill, and all you'd hear are loud "Ohhhh's!" and occasionally, one random guy waited for the right time to mutter out "U mad?". The maturity was definitely showing...because the teens outnumbered the young'uns and adults. Not that I don't mind the occasional trolling at least. You could see the serious business going on. Some matches were very one sided. A brutal game ended up 4-1 within 3 minutes of the time the match started. I would say it was worth the "Put your game face on." attitude. The winner walked away with a free copy of Black Ops on 360.
Midnight brought shit-eating grins to many faces. I highly doubt not one guy picked up his game, just to go home and sleep. No. It was time to pull the trigger...
The numbers were given out, which started at 6pm, and a steady flow of customers came to pay off their game. Number 1 was sitting outside our door at 2:18pm. He was most determined, especially with how hot it was outside. To keep the energy going, NOS provided free cans of their awful energy drinks. No offense NOS, but they weren't being picked up fast.
Around 10:45pm, 190 numbers were handed out. The 1v1 tournament was the highlight of the entertainment. I followed Mr. 190 out the door to watch Modern Warfare 2 being played on two small flat screens. A good kill, and all you'd hear are loud "Ohhhh's!" and occasionally, one random guy waited for the right time to mutter out "U mad?". The maturity was definitely showing...because the teens outnumbered the young'uns and adults. Not that I don't mind the occasional trolling at least. You could see the serious business going on. Some matches were very one sided. A brutal game ended up 4-1 within 3 minutes of the time the match started. I would say it was worth the "Put your game face on." attitude. The winner walked away with a free copy of Black Ops on 360.
Midnight brought shit-eating grins to many faces. I highly doubt not one guy picked up his game, just to go home and sleep. No. It was time to pull the trigger...
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