Gamers blog party: summer 2018 invitation
What better way to celebrate long sunny days, smokey barbecues, brightly-coloured cocktails with weird little umbrellas and amazing blogger friends than with a summer blog party? Set yourself up for a great week by getting to know the awesome writers around you and reading their finest posts.
The rules are simple:
🎉 Arrive at the party: don’t be shy and stand in the corner – say hello and introduce yourself in the comments below! Give an introduction to your blog to welcome new readers and let us know what you’re all about.
🎉 Present your gift: think about the posts you’ve written during the past three months and choose your favourite or one which was fun to write. Leave a link to it in your comment and explain why you’ve picked it.
🎉 Show us your summer vibe: a barbecue isn’t a real party without great music and good food. Tell us which summer song you’re going to play for the crowd, along with the delicacy you’ve brought along for the table or bar.
🎉 Mingle: grab yourself a drink and something to eat, make your way over to the dancefloor and get to know your fellow guests! Check back on the comments throughout the day to discover excellent sites and meet new bloggers.
🎉 Party all day: the comments below will be open for 24-hours until 06:00 BST on Tuesday, 12 June 2018 so you’ve got plenty of time to meet and greet. Plus your posts will be shared on the Later Levels’ social media channels!
These blog party events are my way of giving something back to the amazing WordPress community and showing our appreciation for all of your support. I’ve had the opportunity to meet some lovely people and talented writers over the past 18 months; here’s a little thank you and a way of finding some awesome blogs you may not have come across already.
Can we beat the record of 28 posts shared in the comments below? Enjoy – and excuse me while I go stick some more charcoal on the barbecue!
Categories
Kim | Later Levels View All
Video game lover, Later Levels blogger and SpecialEffect volunteer. Big fan of wannabe pirates and fine leather jackets.
What? Am I early again? Curse this commuting timetable!
*Luke strolls in holding two big bags of twiglets and some local ale from the Lakeside Brewery (brewed in Malvern, check it out!)*
Helloooo Everyone! I’m Luke from Hundstrasse.com, my little corner of the internet where I get to ramble away about whatever games I’ve been playing, or pondering over the past week.
*Nonchalantly slips his coat off to reveal a loud Hawaiian shirt purchased specially for the occasion*
Oh, a hi-fi, do you mind if I put on my Offspring compilation minidisc? Always gets me in the summer mood !
*Somehow manages to wedge a minidisc into the CD tray and it mystically plays, “the kids aren’t alright” begins to blare out*
So I’ve brought along my answer to last month’s “Question of the Month” because it was so much fun to write, a look at what my life might have been like as an Umbrella Employee in Raccoon City. Enjoy!
https://hundstrasse.com/2018/05/17/qotm-umbrella-employee-57832/
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That’s a… er… very summery tune you’ve brought along there Luke… totally digging the Hawaiin shirt and Twiglets! 😀
I know I said it previously, but you should really consider writing more short fiction. You’re so good at it! Can’t wait to see what you’ve got up your sleeve for this year’s Blogger Blitz if you’re going to take part!
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It’s ok, you can change the track once someone else arrives! 😛
Thanks – I’m still working myself up to writing fiction, I have ideas, but turning them into something is kind of a tricky thing 😶
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I hear you. I just don’t have the creativity to come up with the ideas for fiction so I know how tough that part is; and I can only imagine how difficult it is actually making them into something! Maybe a few more QotM prompts could help… 😉
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Hopefully… As I’m sure you know, looking at a blank page is the worst…
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Maybe some of the posts shared by everyone today might help? Either that, or we could start playing hangman on that blank page and see where we end up. 🙂
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I do like some fiction! Can’t wait to see what you come up with. 🙂
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Me too! 😱
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I agree with Kim; I would love to read some more short fiction! You have a fantastic writing “voice.” Also, take some internet points for bringing Offspring to the party. Alternative is my favorite genre!
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😀 thanks!!
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A good song AND a great post? What a way to start the party!
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Hi all! Thanks for the invite Kim!
*Strolls into party with cut price Easter Eggs from Company Shop*
I’m Gary from Art of Redress, an internet blog where a man who missed out on great video games, films, music and wrestling tries to catch up on everything while working a 9-5 and dealing with the demands of kids and cats.
https://artofredress.wordpress.com
Writing I’m most proud of in the last three months? Art of Redress is the blog equivalent of a walk of shame, given the sheer amount of regrets I have, but I have enjoyed looking back at my retro collecting days. Here’s some ramblings I typed about my love of the Gamecube.
https://artofredress.wordpress.com/2018/04/23/recollections-of-a-retro-collector-pt-3/
Now, I had some ska punk on a CD to play at the party, but there is an Offspring mini disc jammed in there so I can’t play it. As long as ‘Why Don’t You Get A Job’ doesn’t come on, I’ll be fine.
*Jumps into dance floor and starts pogo dancing*
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Oh I’m sure I can get that disc out of there…
*Brandishes screwdriver menacingly toward the Hifi*
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*quickly starts jabbing at the eject button*
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Just don’t invalidate the warranty!
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Anyone who brings Easter eggs to a blog party, at any time of the year, is always welcome! So much better than normal chocolate, but not that I’d turn down normal chocolate either mind you. 😉
I don’t recall ever owning a GameCube, although I think my younger brother might have had one. My other-half has still got his somewhere in a box with a copy of Crazy Taxi – maybe we should dig it out so I can see what I missed out on!
*thinks ‘what the hell’ and jumps onto the dancefloor also*
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Crazy Taxi is awesome on Gamecube – I recommend you try it!
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I feel a retro stream coming on…
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Sounds like a plan!
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More 3rd wave ska!
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That’s Reel Big Fish era, right? I was thinking Smash Mouth ‘Walking in the Sun’ until like broke the CD player
*Dances to Pretty Fly for the 5th time*
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I would have thought that would come under 3rd wave as well, but I’m no expert!
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Nor am I sadly…mind have to blog about some ska over the summer, upgrade my knowledge of it!
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Mario Sunshine was my gateway to Gamecube as well! It was so cool to watch. I gotta disagree on AC though. Despite Tom Nook being… a crook, AC is one of my most favorite games. I also played Sims Bustin’ Out on Gamecube too. What a great console!
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Sims Bustin’ Out would have been fun, wished I’d tried that!
I just couldn’t get into Animal Crossing – I don’t like being told when to play. That said, I can get the appeal – I was shocked when my sports game playing friend got hooked on it, building second floors and all sorts…
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If you still have your Gamecube, I bet you can find a copy of it!
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Alas no, my Gamecube is well gone unfortunately. Might have to grab Sims 4 for the PS4 to make up for it…
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I have so many Sims 3 expansions that I can’t for the life of me purchase Sims 4 in good conscious. Not even for a different console. 😦
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That’s fair – I forget how many expansion packs EA bring out for The Sims! I’ll probably grab Sims 4 when it’s dirt cheap…
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Every now and then I see that 50% off sale. That’d probably be the best time!
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Yeah, current gen games really drop in price as they get older. Got enough to be getting on with at the moment though!
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It’s me, Rob from Iplayedthegame again! I brought you this post from the mind of that chap who does the writing (https://iplayedthegame.wordpress.com/2018/05/06/5-nes-games-that-i-played-far-too-much/)
I brought Dropmix with me, so feel free to make your own mix for that party music!
For a BBQ I would always bring yogurt and spice covered chicken which is amazing once it’s cooked. Not so good uncooked though.
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Hey Rob! *waves from all the pogo-ing on the dancefloor*
I just watched a quick video on Dropmix to find out more and it looks really good! We’ve got a couple of friends coming over for the weekend next month and this could be the perfect thing…
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It’s pretty fun! And there are loads of extra card packs to add to the library.
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How long does it take to play? Could it keep a group interested for an evening (with beer and a barbecue, obviously)?
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Generally what I do is just leave it playing (via phone and Bluetooth speaker) with the cards next to it and people can add to/remove from it as they please. If you want to play the competitive mode it tends to be fairly quick.
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Ah I get you… that’s a really good idea. This might be one to get to leave in the background while we’ve got some other games on the go. Thanks Rob! 🙂
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I have to say that I haven’t played any of those games so I can’t contribute to the discussion, but the pixel art is A++. I am digging it!
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*contemplates whether the yogurt accompanies the spice-covered chicken or is part of it*
I didn’t play the NES much as it was before my time, but my stepdad had one when I was a bit older and we’d play Duck Hunt a lot. I always get that era of games mixed up with the Atari and end up surprised at how good the graphics are for the games (relatively speaking).
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Duck Hunt is still great! It doesn’t work too well on modern TVs though.
For the chicken (more birds!) you just coat the chicken in some yoghurt with some spices, leave it to marinade most of the day, then stick it on skewers and BBQ it. Comes out really well!
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Oh good, I’m not too early to the Party Shaking my Pringles can (Original Flavor) and Jack Daniels!
Hello lovely people and I’m Rob and I’m from Bandicoot Warrior a Gaming/Music/Film reviewing blog site but Gaming is my fortay so we say hope everyone likes Whiskey?
I’m bringing to the table the post I’ve done on Fallout 76 (Bit outdated now since E3 Last Night but it was one of my best blogs to write and the one with most views)
https://bandicootwarriorblog.wordpress.com/2018/06/05/fallout-76/
Another post I will feature Only cause I know a few of you I nominated are here for the Neat Bloggers Award went really well and glad everyone reposted their answers to my Questions 😛
https://bandicootwarriorblog.wordpress.com/2018/05/04/in-response-to-nitichis-questions/
Summer Music? Damn that’s a toughy for me hope everyone likes Van Halen? No? Damn gotta be Van Halen-Jump, Hot for Teacher or Panama gotta get the dancefloor moving 😛
And food I’d have to bring is my Girlfriend’s Potato Salad either that or my Sweet Chilli Chicken!
Anyway I’ll be at the Bar with the JD if you want a shot! ❤
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Great song choice there! I’m never going to turn down an 80s tune being added to a party playlist.
I’ve had to put up with my other-half continuously bringing up Fallout 76 since the news first hit, and I know it’s going to be worse now that E3 is here and once my stepson arrives on Friday. The pair are going to hype each other up all weekend ha ha ha! I think I’ll lock myself in the bedroom with a video game on the laptop and headphones. 😉
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Haha but you gotta Love Fallout :p specially now you can run around the wasteland online with your friends 😀
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Ok, confession time: I’ve never actually played a Fallout game in full ha ha ha! I have this weird thing where I don’t like playing a later game in a series if I haven’t played the previous instalments, and I gave up trying to get the original title to work on my PC so I didn’t get very far!
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I’ve never played Fallout 1+2 I started from 3 :p but I get what you mean it is nice to start from the beginning with games and yea PC problems 101 with the originals :p
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It’s so annoying ha ha! I have a feeling I’d enjoy the series if I could get into it, but ideally I’d want to start with the first game. I’ve got a couple of days off work these week so I might see if I can mess around with the PC a bit more and coax it into working.
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You should I have 4 days off work so I might try it myself :p either that or try and finish Fallout 4 xD
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Let me know how you get on. And if you get the original Fallout working, make sure you stream it so I can watch! 😉
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I will do don’t worry :p
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I woke up this morning to my wonderful husband shoving his phone in my face to show me the Fallout 76 and Elder Scrolls VI trailers. We’re both super excited!
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Then you should read my latest post all on the showcase at E3 for Fallout :p
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I’m arriving roughly on time this time! I’m Khinjarsi and I’ve brought ice for the drinks and cheese and pineapple on sticks because it’s not a party without short shabby sticks.
I also brought a CD with some Disney tunes to sing along with when we are all drunk or on a sugar high.
Finally my gift to you all is the start of my A to Z series. I love writing these (when I remember to) since I get to explore And recommend some of my favourite games. https://uponcompletion.wordpress.com/2018/04/01/a-to-z-of-gaming-me-a/
I’ll be working today so I will be bingeing on the food and posts later.
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Looking forward to some bouncing around to “Everybody wants to be a cat”
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“A cat’s the only cat who knows where it’s at…” 🎵
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Hey Khinjarsi, glad you could make it!
*gets ‘Everybody Wants to be a Cat’ lined up for Luke from Hundstrasse*
I’ve been following your A-Z and it’s such a good idea for a series. Have you already got games lined up for every single letter or are you figuring them out as you go? I think there are definitely some I’d struggle with… 🤔
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Why hello Disney tunes *shuffles to corner so no one has to hear her sing*
With your A to Z do you have the list already worked out or are you doing that as you write the post? I’m impressed you had options for “I” because when you got to that I tried to work out what I had played beginning with I and couldn’t think of any.
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To answer both you and Kim, I have a grand list of each letter on my laptop. Some I knew instantly what game I wanted to use – D and J are good examples. Others I still haven’t got an answer for – N and Q are tricky.
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That sounds like a good way to do it. Trying to think off the top of my head there are a few letters I know what I would pick straight away but several that I have no idea for. I think I have an N but no Q out of your tough ones…
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I am loving the fact that you brought Disney music! Also, I would love to do a A to Z game challenge myself! What a cool idea!
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Hello! How is everyone enjoying E3 so far?
Today I bring a blog post about my current hot ‘thing’ it’s Gloomhaven – https://geeksleeprinserepeat.com/2018/05/22/tales-from-gloomhaven/
More specifically my groups first few experiences of playing. We’re hooked on it and no other board game is getting a look in at the moment.
Oh I also brought some hotdogs – they sell them in Sainsbury’s and they’re amazing – seriously go find them, they’re in black packaging, pack of four and some kind of Louisiana flavour, but I forgot the name…
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Just what every barbecue needs – hotdogs!
I’ve not watched anything from E3 yet but I’ve got a couple of days off this week to do some catching up. I have a feeling I’m going to have to put up with my other-half going on about Fallout 76 all week… 😂
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I just checked out your post…WOW. I love me a good complex board game but that looks pretty insane! I’d never heard of Gloomhaven before but I’ll have to look into it, crikey I thought Arkham Horror was big… 😀
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It is a beast that’s for sure. It’s in fairly short supply now I think, but you might be able to track one down. Totally worth it IMO.
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Oh man, this is the second time I’ve seen a Gloomhaven post and it just looks Ah-Mazing, but also very complicated! D:
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Yea there is a lot to learn. We certainly made a few mistakes along the way. But it’s probably the best board game I’ve played.
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*adds to Amazon list* I am a total board game noob but I really need to fill the hole in my heart left by D&D. We had a weekly campaign that has not met for months now and I am missing it so much.
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Hey all, hope everybody likes cake pops!
*takes off coat to reveal a t-shirt with Captain Phasma on it, and a shorts/socks/sandals combo to put most dads to shame*
I’m Zerathulu, I’m pretty new to the blogging scene, only been going since March or so. I generally write reviews for story-rich indie games but I also write nerdy-related think-pieces too. As my gift to the party, I bring my first Nerdly Musing post where I talk about how to quantify the level of absolutely amazing moments in truly terrible films/games:
https://thezerathuluview.wordpress.com/2018/05/10/nerdly-musings-1/
If nobody objects, is it cool if I change the music? I’m dying for a bit of disco…
*blows dust off an LP and places it on the turntable. ‘That’s The Way I Like It’ by KC and the Sunshine Band plays*
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Someone had to turn up in socks and sandals, so thank you for not disappointing ha ha! 😂
Oh yes, I remember this post! I haven’t yet had a chance to use the Shovel Index yet because everything I’ve played recently has been ok but I’ll sure to bust it out at the next terrible game.
Luke from Hundstrasse loves a good formula too – Luke, if you’re reading this, go check out Zerathulu’s post above.
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Someone has to bite the bullet! ☺️
Yeah I really enjoyed writing that piece and figured it makes for better gift than a game review 😁
Right, I’m off to find a fruity cider…
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Oh, I do like a good formula! I’ll check it out later! 🙂
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Story rich indie games you say? *stalks blog* I’ve been looking for some more indie games to try out and by try out I mean add to my wishlist and forget about. *stares longingly at Night in the Woods*
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I know the feeling, if I could afford a quarter of the games in my wishlist…*sighs wistfully*
Happy to know a fellow indie gamer! 😄
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Hullo! I’m Chris, and I muse about stuff over at Overthinker Y (overthinkeryblog.com). As of a couple of weeks ago, I’m also now The Sometimes Vaguely Philosophical Mage, a contributor to thewellredmage.com, which is exciting!
I bring the gift of a Weezer cover of Toto’s Africa: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E4c7EE8_IX0 and I also have a big ol’ bowl full of chickpea and lentil curry to add to the table. (For those who insist on NOT eating vegetarian, you can always just add some chicken!)
My favourite post of the last however long – I’ve not really come out with all that much lately, I realise, and hopefully I’ll do some work to correct that in the near future – is the final of the epic fashion show that Pix and I put on together! https://overthinkeryblog.com/2018/05/11/high-score-haute-couture-the-gaming-fashion-show-the-final-runway/ It was the first community event that I’d had any sort of hand in organising, and I think it went pretty well; it was definitely enjoyable for me to write, and hopefully it was fun for people to read too!
Now, I’ll try to do some social interacting or whatever, but I might be a bit busy at work/ sorting out stuff for my new home/ exploding over new Kingdom Hearts trailer stuff. Glad to be here, anyway!
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You and Pix did so well with your community event, well done guys! Do you think there’ll be a 2019 edition to look forward to (warn me now so I can get my best outfit ready) or have you got anything else lined up? 🙂
*starts singing about blessing rains down in Africa*
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Nothing else right now – we reckon that some time next year we’ll probably ask people for some input and ideas as to how we can do another event that’s even more fabulouser!
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That’s awesome to hear – and I’ve got plenty of time to practice my vogue-ing!
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I didn’t get a chance to really get into the fashion show unfortunately, but I did catch a few posts here and there, and it was such a fun read! I can’t wait for another community event like that from you!
Also, that KH trailer! I am so READY.
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I’m actually pleasantly surprised by the weezer cover and I had fun with the runway analysis. I would love to join in with more community posts in the future.
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Hello all! *waves to everyone* I’m the Gaming Diaries over at thegamingdiaries.wordpress.com
I haven’t been posting as regularly as I would have liked to recently because of life reasons but am trying to work on that going forward. Anyway I bring my last post on things I have overheard in a game shop because there may or may not be a new post in this category coming soon… https://thegamingdiaries.wordpress.com/2018/04/16/overheard-in-a-game-shop-5/
Also I bring some tortilla chips and dips, and some happy dancy music like Happy – Pharrell Willams as it can get people up to dance (for that reason and it’s the only song I can think of other than what is stuck in my head…).
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Haha, that piece made me laugh! I thought kids just did that with booze…”um, we totally just forgot our IDs, it’s cool and everything”… 😄
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Haha no not just for that. The worst I have seen is kids trying to buy directly whilst in their school uniform (for games but probably happens with alcohol too)… common sense was lost that day.
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…speechless. What do they think the cashier is going to think: they’re on their way to a theatre production of School of Rock? 😂
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Haha I know. I really should write up that game shop experience as it was not the most subtle of attempt. I mean they tried but even if they looked old enough (no they didn’t) the clothes are a big clue.
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Why hello there, The Gaming Diaries! 😀
I really enjoy your ‘overheard’ series; you always have interesting stuff happen to you in game shops! The only thing that’s ever really happened to me is the assistants assuming I’m only there because of my other-half or to buy for a present for someone. Thankfully, that doesn’t seem to occur as much any longer so it’s good to see they’re getting used to women in their stores ha ha!
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I’ve had that before but not for ages. It was really annoying when that was the automatic assumption. I sometimes used to say (when I had the confidence to) yes a present for me or something along those lines if they were assuming I would be buying for someone else. Stuff doesn’t always happen but when I hear or see something I do try to take a note of it for these because I enjoy posting them.
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I remember years ago, I took some time off work around the Fable II release date. I went into a GAME shop and ended up having a conversation with an assistant who was very perplexed that I wanted to buy a copy for myself, and not for somebody else.
What made it worse was that he then tried to persuade me to buy the guide too because ‘it’s a large game and you might get lost finding your way around’… pfft.
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That’s just daft. I don’t think that happens as much now, or at least I hope it doesn’t. I think now it is mostly accepted that anyone can buy a game for themselves. The extra sell on the guide is a bit much. I wonder if you had said it was for a partner/brother or whatever if the emphasis on the guide because it’s a big game would have still been there.
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The funniest thing is, the same guy still works at the same shop and when I go in there now, he doesn’t speak to me! 😂
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Did you traumatise him? 😂 I think you made an impression haha.
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“Oh my god, it’s a female who plays games… look away, don’t meet her eye!”
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Haha I can just imagine him seeing you coming and trying to find any reason to go into the stock room or just anywhere else. Though it could just be any female gamer…
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Maybe we should go into the shop en masse and really freak him out.
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Haha maybe we should, it probably would really freak him out by the sounds of it.
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Can’t wait for more of your “overheard” series! There always interesting/funny to read. 🙂 And now Happy is stuck in my head too… *bobs head to tune and has some chips and dip*
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Happy is better being stuck in your head than the mix I still have from yesterday. I was hoping Happy might dislodge them haha.
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I’m curious to know what was stuck in your head yesterday haha!
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Haha a mix of 5, 6, 7, 8 by Steps and Cotton Eye Joe (can’t remember who that is by). They don’t mix naturally haha but they got stuck in my head after hearing them played.
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What a combo! I’ve had that happen too where one lyric from one song would remind me of another song then next thing I knew I had a weird mash up stuck in my head.
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It’s just like being back at secondary school! ha ha ha
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Haha well the reason they got stuck in my head was old dance games so that’s heading back.
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*Sashays through the door *… *Looks around*… hang on; everyone missed my fashionable entrance because they were too busy dancing?! What is this, some kind of party?!!
*Ahem* Hello party people, I’m Pix, author of a not-very-pro gaming blog called Shoot the Rookie. I’ve brewed a nice light summer ale, so I’ll just put that in the fridge for you to grab at your leisure. I’ve also got some Halloumi skewers for the bbq, and some salt ‘n’ vinegar Squares to snack on, because I can’t get enough of the burning vinegar taste. Oh yes.
I was enjoying the Ska-Punk earlier I have to say, but hmm, what music can I sneak on? I’m going to slow things down a bit with my all-time favourite summer song, Spirit in the Night by Bruce Springsteen, which appears to be about driving to an out-of-town lake with some friends in summertime and, erm, stuff happens.
I see Chris from Overthinker Y is already here, bringing with him an encyclopaedic knowledge of video game fashion, presented in the form of High Score Haute Couture, so I think it is only right that I also present to you something downright style-tastic. Here is my final round-up post of the fashion extravaganza that was High Score Haute Couture, which pretty much explains the whole thing:
http://shoottherookie.com/2018/05/31/high-score-haute-couture-final-score
Hope to chat to lots of you throughout the day, and *shameless self-promotion follows* if any of you are free on Thursday to kick a ball around with some video game characters please do join me for the launch of the Video Game World Cup 2018!
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Providing I don’t need to know anything at all about football or am required to kick a ball personally, count me in! After seeing how much effort you and Chris put into High Score Haute Couture, I’m very intrigued to see what you’ve got up your incredibly-fashionable-sleeve for this World Cup event. 😀
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No knowledge required – its just a bit of fun! Nothing as fasionably bombastic as High Score Haute Couture (note to self: you can stop using that sort of language in normal conversations now)
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That’s good news, because if knowledge was required I’d certainly let the side down! I was half expecting you and Chris to design some sort of highly-fashionable football kit for the event…
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Since I missed most of the fashion show, count me in for Thursday! I can at the very least attempt to keep up with the posts this time!
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Nice to see you Pix 😁👍
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*Athena wanders in, checking to see who’s here. She notices Luke and self-consciously straightens her own Hawaiian shirt*
Hi, guys! I’m Athena from AmbiGamingCorner (www.ambigamingcorner.com), where I look for “real world” themes that come up in video games. I come bearing fresh sangria and homemade pasta salad with mixed vegetables and a light vinaigrette dressing (*considers starting an “Athena Talks About Food” segment on AmbiGaming and ultimately decides against it*).
I have a tendency to bring some crazy, deep post as a gift, so this time around I’ll bring my attempt at a humorous post, a walkthrough guide to the end of Dragon Age: Origins (https://ambigamingcorner.com/2018/04/01/dragon-age-origins-archdemon-walkthrough/)
Hey, Kim, I brought a mix CD… do you think we could add “Shut Up and Dance” by Walk The Moon to the lineup?
*stand in the corner with a drink, enjoying watching other people dance, even though she is confused by all the pogo sticks that are on the dance floor*
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“Remember, the key is to stay alive, so try to avoid being hit by spells or having wards placed on you.” So that’s where I’ve been going wrong all along. With this walkthrough guide I’ll surely now make it to the end of the game! 😂
I’ve been making a playlist in YouTube of all the songs suggested and it’s getting… pretty eclectic ha ha! I’m not entirely sure what it says about the minds of the WordPress community but I’ll post a link to it tomorrow.
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Yes, I’ve found that staying alive is a key component to getting through the game, particularly by avoiding or countering attacks. Glad the guide might be helpful! 😀
I can imagine! I can’t wait to see what we’ve all been jamming to!
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Boy did I struggle with the stay alive bit. It took me too many goes to kill it.
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Omg I know, right?? I think that’s what makes that bit so key!! 😛
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*Fearing being “Out-Hawaiianed” Luke quickly hollows out a pineapple and fills it with a mojito … People drink Mojitos from pineapples right?*
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*Upon seeing this, Athena grabs a coconut and expertly (ha) cracks it open before sipping the juice from it while holding a little cocktail umbrella over her head*
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Well played! 😊
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One of my favorite songs! So glad you added it to the playlist!
Also: “If you’re not playing as a mage, well you made a pretty poor life decision.” Ah, so there’s where I messed up. Why did I choose to be a graphic designer again?
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So good, right?
Haha a little irony, considering I usually play as a rogue… But yes. I often ask myself why I didn’t choose to study the arcane arts when I had the chance… *sighs wistfully*
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Almost always an archer. 😦 I loathe using magic and have toyed with the idea of playing as a mage to get over my hate.
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I’m the same way. I actually don’t think I’ve ever played as a mage in any game… except Dragon Age, on the rare occasion I was forced to 😉
I’ll play as a mage if you will! haha
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Lol! Now that would be a funny blog series: “My First Time Being a Mage” brought to you by AmbiGaming & A Geeky Gal.
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Omg can you imagine? I’m down for that if you are!!! haha
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YES! Just need to make myself a note haha!
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What’s up Anthena. Nice of you to drop by.
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Hey there! Nice to see you! I hope you’re having a fun time at the party 🙂
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Hi everyone and thank you for the party, Kim!
My name is Kelly and I just recently started up my video game analysis blog, “Why We Play Games”!
https://kellycwhyweplay.wordpress.com
I have only been blogging for a couple of weeks, but the post I am most proud of this far was my post on Skryim and anxiety. I felt that it was important to let people know how gaming can be good for mental health since it soothes my anxiety.
https://kellycwhyweplay.wordpress.com/2018/06/01/skryim-and-escaping-anxiety/
The song I will be bringing along is going to be from Walk The Moon since I think they are a good band for a summer party. I’m between bringing “Ghostbusters” for some retro fun or “Kamikaze” for some fun dancing!
I brought smores because they are a fun summer treat! I’m going to the dance floor because I love to dance!
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Hi Kelly, welcome to the party! Hopefully you’ll get to meet some other gaming bloggers here and find out what’s happening in the community.
Love the subject for the post you decided to share today. I know it’s something that’s close to many of our hearts; and it was The Elder Scrolls Online which helped me to deal with losing my gran-in-law earlier this year. Video games can give us the opportunity to switch off and take a mental break when we need it the most.
That’s enough seriousness for now though – time for some Ghostbusters karaoke!
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Did someone say karaoke?!? 😀
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I’m sooo taking you to a karaoke bar if you ever come over to London!
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I’m so there!!!
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That’s what I love most about games, they allow you to relax when you need too! Sorry about your gran-in-law!
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Uh Karaoke, maybe my singing isn’t too bad for some karaoke fun…
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Now that’s the spirit! *hands The Gaming Diaries a mic*
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*starts singing* 🎤
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I loved your piece! It’s funny, all of us tend to have different go-to games for dealing with stress, for me it’s Proteus. Something about a walking simulator with a synth soundtrack just puts me totally at ease after a jittery day.
Anyway, it’s nice to meet you! I think you’ll need a pogo-stick before you’re allowed on the dance floor though! 😄
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Proteus is so good when you need a mental holiday – not many people seem to have heard about it, so it’s great to find someone who’s actually played it! 😀
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I know, right? Doesn’t get nearly the love it deserves! Chasing those big-pixel chickens and bunnies never fails to make me smile 😆
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I tend to go between different games for stress depending on the stress, but I found Skryim to be the most helpful since I bought it! Before that, I would go to Persona 5.
I’ll have to look at Proteus, I haven’t heard of that game but I’m always looking for new games to try!
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Give it a go if you have the opportunity! It’s… different, but it’s kind of beautiful in its own way.
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It sounds like an intriguing game!
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*bounces by on a pogo stick, only slightly out-off-control*
Hi guys!
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Hi Kelly! Excellent article! Mental health and games is a very interesting topic, and one I’ve explored, too. Looking forward to seeing more of your work!
On to dancing!
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Thank you so much and I’m glad you enjoyed the article!
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What a great post! I also have anxiety, and Skyrim has been an amazing escape. Also stalked your blog a bit and found your Kingdom Hearts post and I relate to it so much. KH actually is a huge bonding point for my husband and me. You got yourself a new follower! I can’t to read more!
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The KH post was the first one I had to do because the game means so much to me! I’m so looking forward to KH3!
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ME TOO! So glad we finally have a release date!
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I was sharing the latest Frozen video with my friend last night and we were both so excited!
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I attended a wedding last night and my husband grabbed me as soon as I walked in and made me sit down for the Frozen video! We CAN’T WAIT!!!
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Neither can my friend and I! We were both super excited and I can’t wait to hear more news from Square Enix later about KH3!
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Hey Kelly! Loved your Skyrim blog, and am excited to follow along and read more of your stuff! 🙂 I… do not love to dance, but I do love s’mores! 😀
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Thank you for the follow! I agree that smores are the best especially since I love chocolate!
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Wsup Kelly. Welcome to the wonderful world of blogging. I I hope you enjoy every minute of it. If you ever wanna talk about games. I’m your guy.
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I’m loving it so far and it’s fun meeting other people who also blog about games!
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What’s happening folks? In the place to be today! Blogging live to you and yours it’s your boy Justin also known as TWOTALL4UFOOL! I run the gaming blog TWOTALL4UFOOL’s Games & Tech Reviews. Maybe you’ve heard of it. http://www.twotall4ufool.com . I write reviews on games, tech devices, and other random stuff. Check out my website if you haven’t and subscribe while you are there. Trust me you won’t be disappointed.
Here’s what I’m bringing to the party. With it being E3 week here is post I wrote a while back on my predictions for the upcoming Super Smash Bros. game. https://twotall4ufool.com/2018/03/17/super-smash-bros-for-switch-2018-predictions/
I hope you all enjoy that one. I want to add that I think Shovel Knight may be a character when they reveal the roster.
As for food and music. I’m bringing some hamburgers we can put on the grill and some potato salad. I also bought some beers fresh and cold. I hope you all like Dos Equis. As for music I got two songs for you. DJ Jazzy Jeff & Fresh Prince’s “Summertime”, And The Dove Shack’s “Summertime In The LBC”.
It’s great to be at the party. Special thanks to Kim here at Later Levels for hooking this thing up. I’m so excited to be here. I’ll be coming through later on in the day!
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Ah someone had to do it… surely this DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince produced the greatest summer song of all time? *Now* it’s a summer party!
We won’t have to wait long to see if your E3 predictions are correct. How confident are you feeling? 😀
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I feel some of them are correct. I would like to see more Sonic characters in the game this year. Waluigi wouldn’t hurt either.
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My stepkid would certainly agree with you when it comes to Waluigi. Fingers crossed!
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Well Waluigi didn’t make the cut. He’s a damn assist trophy. Maybe it’s not too late to put together a petition to get him in the game.
Well I did predict Ridley would make it.
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YES! Consider this your first signature on that petition. 😉
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Hello there,
I’m NekoJonez. To some I’m known, to others I’m new. I’m a (retro) gaming collector and I enjoy playing games I find at garage sales and thrift stores. I even like collecting the obscure and weird games.
I write a sort of diary on my blog where I talk about the various games I have played. Most of the times it’s one game per week. And when I don’t have the time to write about one game, I try to present something else like my favorite gaming music or my opinion on something related to our industry.
Besides that, I take requests from developers and try to write an article with constructive criticism while reviewing the game. This is very well received by developers and most of them have made updates and patches with the things I pointed out.
Besides that, I like helping other bloggers. So, when I’m not doing one of my 10 other pass times (or my actual paid job), I help bloggers with mental problems or other blog related questions.
One of my favorite articles is the review of Blossom Tales I wrote. The developer enjoyed it quite a lot: https://arpegi.wordpress.com/2018/06/05/review-blossom-tales-the-sleeping-king-switch-cloned-to-perfection/
Now, I have been playing Remember Me a lot lately and the soundtrack is just amazing, so here is some additional music for the party: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d2nZCIJpLRM
Now, there are a few things in the works for my blog. From a Tomb Raider project to various games I have on my list to review for quite some time.
My reviews are 100% my opinion too. I could try and talk here for hours, but I think it’s best to just visit my website. If you have any feedback or requests… just ask me. I love listing to my readers. In addition to that, if you are an avid twitter person, I tweet a lot myself. So, go and follow me at: https://twitter.com/NekoJonez
Can’t wait to see any of you new folk over there. And to the people who know me, where is my drink and what are we talking about?
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For anyone new to the community who’s joining us for our first blog party: NekoJonez is one of the loveliest and most helpful people you’ll meet here! If you have a question or need a hand, he’s always there to assist. 😘
And to everyone reading this: keep your eyes peeled for more about that Tomb Raider project tomorrow!
Thanks for joining us Jonez! Now let’s get you that drink and steer you over to the dancefloor…
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D= Dance floor… you really want me to dance? Oh noes. I rather do dj’ing then dancing yo.
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Hey, that can be arranged!
*pushes Jonez behind the decks*
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Oh dear. Now, time for some video game tunes.
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Hi NekoJonez! Good to see you again! You have amazing tastes in games, and I cannot recommend Blossom Tales enough. It gives me the same amazing feels I got when playing A Link to the Past and A Link Between Worlds! Great review, by the way! 🙂
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Thanks my man. I hope you will continue to enjoy my work in the future too.
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I always enjoy your reviews! As someone who has a hard time writing long review posts, I love to read them!
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Thanks a lot! I like your posts too 🙂
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Aw thank you!
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Your review of Blossom Tales is really awesome man! Super long and detailed! Well done!
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Welcome to the party neko. Let’s see you get on that dance floor man.
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Nah, I rather play music since I cant dance to save my life.
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Hey I’m a man that has no rhythm. You can’t do possibly worse than I can!
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Hey man! Here’s your drink! *hands you a Lightning in a Bottle*
I’m down for talking about Remember Me… 😉 Such great music, for sure!
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Cheers. Have a great partiiiiii!
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*hops through the door wearing a hula skirt over her shorts and mermaid bra t-shirt while carrying a crockpot full of sweet and sour meatballs* Hey Kim! Thanks so much for the invite! I’ll just set my crockpot on the counter, and y’all can dig in. I also brought some country music. No BBQ is complete without Florida Georgia Line. 😉
Hey y’all! I’m Megan over at A Geeky Gal! I write about anything geeky that strikes my fancy but mostly video games, anime, cosplay, and fandoms! I also write some personal pieces every now and then. One of my most popular posts that was done in February is still going strong: https://ageekygal.com/2018/01/31/30-day-video-game-challenge/
A more current post that’s popular right now is this one: https://ageekygal.com/2018/04/06/5-fandom-friday-the-5-geekiest-things-ive-ever-done/
I’m super excited to see some new bloggers here at the party so I’m going to make my rounds slowly while I’m at work. Thanks again Kim for putting this together!
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Thanks for coming, Megan! You always bring the best treats to a blog party; are the meatballs going to be able to top last time’s hash brown casserole?
Your post has got me thinking about the geekiest things I’ve ever done myself… I’ve done conventions and cosplay, and I’ve a few figures, but I’ve never written fan-fiction or participated in a panel. Possible goals for this year!
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I would totally attend a panel with you! Now to decide what the panel would be about… Hey, future collab possibly? Since we live so far away from each other… 😦
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Virtual panels… that’s got to be a thing, right? Uh-oh, idea incoming… we should so arrange a virtual panel as part of the next GameBlast event! 😀
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YES! I would be all over that! Just gotta account for my silly time difference.
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I’m sure we can come up with something!
*makes note in diary to get in touch with Megan once arrangements for GameBlast19 are underway*
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Sweet! I’m super excited!
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Hi Megan, nice to run into you here. 🙂 I question your choice in music, but the delicious meatballs more than make up for it.
Megan’s blog is ah-mazing if you haven’t checked it out! She recently wrote a super-cool guest post over on NH called “Breaking Out of the Box (of Politeness),” which is just great: https://normalhappenings.com/2018/05/31/breaking-out-of-the-box-of-politeness/.
See you around!
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While I am not a HUGE fan of country music, FGL’s music has some great summer hits like Cruise and This is How We Roll. 😉 Thanks for totally plugging my guest post!
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Wsup Megan.
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… I’ve been out Hawaiian-ed…. 😱
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Maybe we should have a vote? Hawaiian costume contest!
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You’re going to need to up your game next time! Best start planning the Halloween outfit for the next party now. 😉
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Oh no! Here, hold this ukelele! *thrusts ukelele into Luke’s hands*
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Hello everyone! Super excited to be attending my second blog party! My blog, Normal Happenings, is about optimism and appreciating everyday life. Really I focus on a number of things: often we’re finding the positive themes in movies, video games, and music. There’s also plenty of philosophic musings. I’m also home of the Nice Job Badges, which is basically a big weekly high five for people who have put a lot of work into their posts! I know you’ll enjoy it, so drop by later and say hi!
Okay, so I’d like to present you guys with a big one this time around. I’ve been working on an advanced YA science fiction novel called Dysontopia. It’s a razor-sharp character-focused serial exploring the inner monologue of someone who deals with self-doubt and depression. I release a new portion every week, and have gotten a great deal of positive feedback from you guys. I really think you will love it, and I would be honored if you would check it out and follow along. You can start here at the introduction, and then navigate through the first three chapters: https://normalhappenings.com/2018/04/19/about-dysontopia-why-im-publishing-a-novel-as-a-blog-serial-0-1/ 🙂
So, as you know, I love to cook, and I this time around to fit with the summer vibe, I brought everyone my famous turkey burgers! Just look at it! It’s lean spicy ground turkey, melted cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, spicy mustard, and slices of avocado on a gluten free bun. I made half with regular bacon, and half with turkey bacon. Both are equally delicious!
Well, I’ll be making the rounds, so feel free to ask me anything! Except of course about my secret Scrabble strategies, which also happens to be the game I brought along. We are bloggers, after all! 😀
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Ooh, turkey burgers! *grabs a bun and tries not to talk with a full mouth*
Thanks for bringing Dysontopia along Matt. In fact, you might be able to help us out… Luke from Hundstrasse and I were talking about short fiction earlier in the conversation above. I don’t suppose you have any tips?
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Tips! Yeah, sure. Do you have a few hours? 🙂
In as general as I can get: good characters equal a good story. It can compensate for any plot deficiency. There is never, never such a thing as too much characterization, because characters are people, and people have a ridiculously high capacity for quirky behavior. You could probably write a whole story about someone’s internal monologue while staring up at the ceiling and find a way to make it interesting. It’s probably been done before. 😀 Get to know your characters like you would close friends.
But yeah, I’d love to sit down (virtually, haha) with you and chat about fiction. It’s one of my favorite things!
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*scribbles away on a notepad* sounds like solid advice! Thanks! … Hopefully I’ll actually be able to follow it one day.
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I have no doubt you will, Luke! You’re a fantastic blogger, and writing fiction is really just about practicing, being yourself, and practicing being yourself. 😀
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Dibs on the fan story.
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Ooh, maybe this is something we could arrange… Luke, are you reading this? 🙂
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Sounds good to me! Just give the word. 🙂
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Hey Matthew, good to meet you! Just checked out 1.1 of Dysontopia, I’m going to have to get upto speed!
*wanders over from bar with fruity cider, sits on a beanbag chair with kindle in hand, starts reading*
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Nice to meet you too, and thanks for the follow! I hope you enjoy your cider, and the book, of course. 😀
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Likewise! And I intend to 😁
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Not only is your cooking fantastic but so it your writing! Since you already shared Dysontopia, I want to plug your contribution to my Video Game Challenge that was such a delightful read: https://normalhappenings.com/2018/03/02/my-first-video-game-was-a-masterpiece-a-kirbys-adventure-retrospective/
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What up Matt? Nice to see you here.
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Oh. Hey! My name is Nana Marfo. I run a Weebly website because WordPress has no portfolio.
I’m African so… want some Chicken?
Anyway, I do gaming and Anime Blogs when I can(because Sixth Form is a creative roadblock sometimes). I also blog about me making my own games, which is one of 2 recommendations(or gifts): https://nanamarfo.weebly.com/blog/nm-gameworks-10-game-updates
The Second Gift is me writing my first impressions on Life is Strange because I had a blast writing that and the new spin-off looks great! Is there a limit to gifts I can give? I am a generous guy, you know? https://nanamarfo.weebly.com/blog/life-is-strangefirst-impressions
I should also thank Pix1001 and LightningEllen for introducing me to this community.
I also really like KH so… Destiny Island as a music choice? Let’s go meet some people.
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Hey Nana, it’s lovely to have you here! And thank you to Pix and LightningEllen for bringing you into the community. 😀
I started playing Life is Strange last year and got through the first episode, but then had no desire to go back to it. I think I related to Max’s teenage insecurities too much and I couldn’t deal with all that anxiety, along with the responsibility for making decisions that would have long-lasting effects on other people. But that’s part of why other people love it so much so I definitely need to make the effort to pick it back up again!
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Hello, fellow game artist! 😀 So nice to meet someone else trying to break into the industry! Also, KH’s music is bomb so it gets 2 thumbs up from me.
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Hello! I looked at your page and I love what I’m seeing!
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Thank you! 🙂
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Great to see you here 😀
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Hey Everybody! (Hi Dr. Nick!)
My blog isn’t really new, (last October maybe?) but is sparse compared to y’all. H.F.G.G. https://husbandfathergamergeek.wordpress.com is really just about whatever is happening in those various aspects of my life.
I really didn’t have any specific goals for blogging, just needed a creative outlet of sorts, and so I write. Not nearly enough though. I’ve got about twice as many in-progress posts as I have actually published, I just need to finish them.
Here’s the one that I think really typifies the style that most of my posts follow. It has nothing to do with video games, but everything to do with life with three kids, a wife, career, and my own interests all combining into one.
https://husbandfathergamergeek.wordpress.com/2018/02/06/the-one-about-justin-timberlake/
I’ll have some more posts coming up soon, now that E3 has basically forced my hand on one game (you’ll just have to wait, read, and see…)
I think for the music here…I’d let you all enjoy what has been bumpin at my house recently (Thanks to kids zumba at the gym, which is amazing to tire them out a bit)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A3YmHZ9HMPs (It’s raining tacos! Yum Yum Yum!)
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Oh no… why on earth did I click on that link… what have you done to my brain?! Ha ha ha
I think we should switch this one out for some Justin Timberlake instead as quickly as possible! 😉
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Cheese, cheese, cheese, cheese! I could have put “Tropical Panda”, or that one “Chihuahua” song on there instead! That will get you moving too!
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I’m not going to be able to get these songs out of my head now, am I? Ha ha ha 😂
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I love the blog post you shared! What a neat little peek into your life. 🙂 My parents were quite the rock junkies when I was growing up, and now I have a deep rooted love for rock and alternative music. I remember being about 4 and asking mom to play the “flower tape.” The Flower Tape was Sublime’s self titled album.
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Nice! I love Sublime! My kids love Queen, The Beatles, Led Zepplin, David Bowie, as well as some more closer to my generation like Nirvana.
Mainly I just want to keep them off the radio.
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Nirvana is another childhood fave! Sounds like your kids are well rounded lol!
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Hello everyone! Sorry I’m late. I stayed up late last night watching the E3 2018 conferences and I have been looking at all of the other gaming stuff that happened outside of the conferences. E3 is a busy and wonderful time for gamers.
I’m bringing some Oreos, Werther’s Originals and ice cold Pepsi Max because it is bloomin hot. I have also brought the song from the recent Devil May Cry 5 trailer as it is HYPE!!!!
I am Brandon Green I run and write on That Green Dude. http://thatgreendude.com
I write about mainly about video games but sometimes other things that I like such as martial arts films, wrestling and even Yu-Gi-Oh cards (I’ve got a piece on some of my old cards coming soon).
Here’s a piece I did a few days ago about some “Assassin’s Creed Money”. If you know who or which company made it please let me know. If you have any info about this Assassin’s Creed Money please let me know and help me solve this mystery. – https://thatgreendude.com/2018/06/03/assassins-creed-money/
I apologise if I am not very responsive, I am quite busy today. Have a good time at the party everyone.
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Hey Brandon, glad to hear you’ve been enjoying E3! I haven’t had a chance to follow up on any of the news just yet because I’ve been busy… busy going through loads of data about the perception of the console generations. It’s almost ready and there should be a load of graphs coming by the end of the week. 😉
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E3 has been incredible this year. A lot of the games I wanted have been announced. Finally we are getting Devil May Cry 5.
I can’t wait to see the results. Thank you for doing so much in response to my question. 🙂
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Honestly it’s my pleasure. As sad as it sounds, it’s been a lot of fun analysing the figures! I’m sure none of the findings are conclusive and I’ve probably not used the right charts, but I’ve enjoyed doing it anyway. 😀
I’ve got some E3 catching up to do tomorrow!
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I haven’t gotten to watch as much of E3 as I’d like so I’m playing catch up! Also, as someone who came into the Yu-Gi-Oh card game late and still plays, I secretly can’t wait to see your new post!
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E3 has been incredibly hectic. Crazy good. Avoid EA’s show though.The indies they showed were good. Unravel 2 and Sea of Solitude.
My Yu-Gi-Oh cards are all 1st gen from late 90’s early 2000’s I’ve got tonnes of them.
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Unforunately, EA had been the only one I’ve been able to watch while it was live. Very disappointed but SOS and Ravel 2 look like they’ll be awesome!
My Yu-Gi-Oh cards are pretty new, maybe a few years old other than a few that were hand picked at some shops.
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Square’s show wasn’t anything to shout about. 2 nice reveals and another look at Dragon Quest XI and Kingdom Hearts 3.
I stopped collecting when I was bout half way through high school. I still watch the anime though. I can remember putting in the codes on the cards in Yu-Gi-Oh Forbidden Memories.
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Please tell me you’ve heard of Yu-Gi-Oh Abridged.
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I have and I love it.
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I’m giving you mad internet points today for that. I love Yu-Gi-Oh Abridged!
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Yes. Internet points! Can I use my points at shops? 😁
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Unfortunately no one takes internet points anymore but you have bragging rights!
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I can settle for bragging rights. 🙂
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I’m also interested in solving the Ezio money mystery. Any progress with It?
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It is definitely unofficial merch. Apparently the company that made this (of which I still don’t have a name for) also made gaming credit cards. I’m going to see if I can find any of them.
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“Howdy, ya’ll…” comes a sticky voice from the doorway. In slidges (halfway between a saunter and a slunk) a rotund, red-clad figure bedecked in BBQ sauce-drenched aprons, the foremost of which reads “KISS THE MOOK”. Greasy fingers speckled with sesame seeds and burnt crisps from meats long past grasp haphazardly at multiple pairs of tongs, clicking like so many metal voices in a choral cacophony. The sweltering orifice opens and the red mage speaks: “I been to so many BBQs… call a doctor…”
HP reaches critical. “Death by Glamour” plays.
*hours and several doses of pepto later*
Hey, sorry about that! I’m back to my old self! I love these Blog Parties and I will invite my mage friends to check it out! I’m the Well-Red Mage and I do games crit stuff. Here’s an article I did not write but one in which I figure, it’s an interview and Jehosaphat did the ninja that conducted it do a good job!
https://thewellredmage.com/2018/06/06/an-interview-with-a-well-red-mage/
I also brought some red hot Chocobo Wings. Yum.
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Chocobo Wings are perfect for today!
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Crispy and… they’re from a Gold Chocobo. Don’t tell anyone.
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You can always count on the Mage to make one of the best entrances to a blog party ha ha ha! You have to be one of the busiest people I know; how on earth do you find the time to fit it all in?
If you’ve found the secret to fitting extra hours in the day, I think it’s only fair you share it with the rest of the group… 😉
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Haha thanks, Kim! I figure since it’s just stupid me that I might as well try to make an entrance. Thanks for always hosting these. They’re super awesome!
My secret is befriend a Time Mage and have them cast Haste!!
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Dammit… I need to find myself a Time Mage. I need more hours to fit in writing and blog-reading!
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I didn’t realize how much I needed interviews with my favorite bloggers until I read yours! What a great, in depth interview. Thanks for sharing so much with us!
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Aw thanks for reading it! I was happy when our ninja suggested conducting them himself because as much as I enjoyed them I wasn’t too good at it and I couldn’t find the time for them. I’m looking forward to more of ’em!
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Red hot chocobo wings. This I got to try.
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I decided I am going to be the simple person and bring a bag of marshmallows to roast and a keg of Sprite for this BBQ party. Thanks Kim for the invites. This is my first blog party and I’m so excited to be here. I am Bucksteeth aka Ahmad and I just started blogging at the residentcommittee.wordpress.com and basically I try to cater to geeks, gamers and nerds that are working professionals, and have just about a decent amount of time to juggle work and their hobbies.
But enough about me. I am ready to rock in my pyjamas and here is a CD of the ever timeless classic to any summer party, Macarena by Los Del Rio. Let’s get this party started!
*Goes to a corner to sleep because he got work tomorrow and this time zone thing is really causing jetlag. He also drop a copy of his Tips to Singapore Guide https://residentscommittee.wordpress.com/2018/06/11/welcome-to-singapore/
*
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Welcome to your first blog party! Hopefully you’ll meet some great bloggers today and get to know the community a little better. 😀
Surely you’ve got time for one round of the Macarena before falling asleep in the corner…? *drags Bucksteeth onto the dancefloor before he can close his eyes*
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HEEEEEYYY MACARENA *CLAP*
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Welcome Ahmad! I love your Singapore post and stuck around to read a few of your appraisals! Love your posts already and can’t wait to see more from you. 🙂
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Hey Ahmad! Great choice of music, almost makes me want to get up from my beanbag chair…..almost….damn this thing is comfy.
Loved your Singapore post, really looking forward to seeing where you go with your blog!
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Hi there! I hope I’m not the last one to the party! Don’t worry, I didn’t come empty handed, I brought some mint choc chip ice cream and in case anyone wants to do drunken karaoke later, Summer Nights from the musical Grease.
I guess I should introduce myself, my name’s Thero and I just like to blog about anything and everything that appeals to me, which tends to be quite geeky, which you can find at A Reluctant Hero.
A recent post I’ve just finished is all about my E3 wishlist. I’ll be popping by every so often, I hope you guys have fun!
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Mint choc chip ice-cream? Only the best ice-cream flavour EVER. *grabs a big spoon, before handing Thero a karaoke mic*
I haven’t had a chance to watch anything from E3 yet so I’ve got plenty of catching up to do tomorrow. If there is news on Elder Scrolls VI or Online, I’ll be a very happy gamer – although I have to say, Cyberpunk 2077 has also got me intrigued.
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Love your wishlist! We watched Sony’s presentation last night and I was so excited to to see more of KH III! It was freaking amazing.
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Thanks! I’m a little behind on the E3 conferences, but from what I’ve heard., there’s definitely been some interesting games shown!
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Oh man! I feel like a little late to this party! Hey everyone, i’m Jamie from https://bestnerd.life/! Although i’m pretty new to blogging independently, it’s been super fun so far! I try to cover as many nerdy topics as possible like games, films and events. I wouldn’t mind trying to do some interviews with industry people at some point but that’s just a pipe dream at the moment. Basically i’m just trying to live my ‘Best Nerd Life’.
I want to share a blog post about my thoughts on Pokémon Let’s Go Pikachu & Eevee as I’m really excited for Pokémon on the Nintendo Switch. While i’m more excited about the 2019 Pokémon game, I still think Pokémon Let’s Go deserves some merit. https://bestnerd.life/2018/06/04/excited-pokemon-lets-go/
Song wise, I would definitely pick ‘Escape’ by Jaroslav Beck & Summer Haze. I love the rhythm! (It’s also from Beat Saber which looks so damn trippy.) I’ve also brought a ton of chocolate ice-cream over too because a summer party just ain’t complete without ice-cream! (Thanks to Kim for hosting this by the way!)
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Hi Jamie, welcome to the party! Hopefully you’ll find some new friends and blogs to follow. And chocolate ice-cream to go with Thero’s mint choc chip – we’d better get some sundaes on the go!
I seem to recall we have a few Pokémon fans here today, so I think you’ve picked the perfect post to share. 😀
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I am one of those unfortunate people who is late to the (Pokemon) game. As a new fan though, I saw the trailer for Let’s Go and was very excited to try it with my husband! It looks like it’s going to be so much fun!
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Ha, it’s never too late to get into Pokemon! It’s definitely going to be an interesting game, especially with co-op. My girlfriend is a Pokemon nerd too so we are both excited for it!
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My first Pokemon game was Pokemon X for the 3DS so I count myself as a new fan haha. Playing co-op is going to be really cool. It’s on our list!
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Wow what a super idea, and so many blogs to check out 😀
Hello nicetomeetchoo! I’m Andria, and I run a blog called Turn Based Turnip: https://turnbasedturnip.wordpress.com/
I really enjoy writing about the narrative elements behind titles—I’m a book lover and think that video games can be such a brilliant platform for telling stories. I also write about game-related events I attend, and anything that’s on my mind really about video games!
I’ve decided to share this post I particularly enjoyed writing about turning off the notifications on PS4, Steam, etc. https://turnbasedturnip.wordpress.com/2018/05/05/my-case-for-turning-off-ps4-notifications-other-platforms-also-available/ because I feel like it’s something so simple, yet so easy to put off doing anything about; the interruptions from achievements/trophies which tear you away from your concentration and can potentially ruin your immersion, or simply your general enjoyment of playing a game.
Mariya Takeuchi’s “Plastic Love” is summer for me, so that’s the song I pick 😉 and you can all enjoy my homemade guacamole—trust me it’s amazing!
I’m going to try and look at as many blogs as I can, even after the party’s over 😛
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Hey Andria, thanks for joining us. Hope you find a few blogs of interest today! 😀
I loved your post about the PS4 notifications because so many points within it rang true for me. I recently started playing a new co-op game and I noticed that the trophy messages are making me competitive, when I should be focusing on playing as part of a team; so I think I’ll be taking your advice.
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Thank you for inviting us all Kim! It was particularly welcome for me because I’ve got a summer cold which left me bedbound yesterday and this was a breath of fresh air 😀
Yes precisely, unwelcome notifications during co op are THE worst! I’m glad you liked the post!
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Oh no… hope you feel better soon! Hopefully you’ll be well for the next party in September. 😉
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Hi Andria! Your thoughts about video games being a platform for telling stories? You could so easily be describing me and the reason I got into blogging! My first blog post was on that very subject =)
I’m not really one for guac, but I did enjoy your piece on Shadow Of the Colossus. Every review I’ve read of it has been glowing, I may need to find time for it !
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Hi Zerathulu nice to meet you 🙂 Wow really?! Games may even be my favourite platform for experiencing stories, when utilised well as a platform it can just take your breath away 😮
I found your “Time to Write a Novel?” post and can absolutely relate. So many times I have had that “itch” and written down a story idea, or even a whole load of pages in my notebook on the train of actual story, and then I can’t/don’t find the time to follow through. Writing a video game blog is definitely helping my motivation too in that respect. I wish you well on your novel writing endeavour!
But yes, yes — definitely worth playing SoTC. Even with the lack of facial expressions, it is a masterpiece. Did you play the original?
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I am in total agreement! Being in control of a character as they carve their own path through a narrative…there’s nothing else like it =)
I honestly wish it were as easy as just having an idea and putting it down in writing, but the time commitment required is just insane. I’m struggling a little at the moment but I’m hoping to put out a prologue in the next few weeks. Like you, I find writing a blog definitely helps with motivation! Do you plan to try again one day?
And I’m afraid I didn’t, I have to hold my hands up and say I only knew of its existence when people started reviewing the remake! I didn’t even know the remake is a PS4 exclusive until I looked it up this morning, which sucks because I own no consoles. PC gamer only =(
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Oh absolutely, I’d never say I would never try again, just need to make a habit of it. Thanks game blogs for helping us write 🙂
I reckon SotC is at its best on your first experience of it, so if you ever do manage to play the remake you’ve still got the best yet to come!
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I totally get your frustration with trophies taking away from the immersion of a game. Heavy Rain is a HUGE culprit! So much emotion running through you when you hear that high pitched trophy noise. Can the PS4 at least ask me if I’m okay?!
But anyway, great blog! I look forward to more content from you!
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Hi Megan it’s nice to meet you! Oh I know — Heavy Rain is very naughty with trophies!! It was a big reason I found out how to disable them xD
Thank you very much 😀 I’ve had a little peek at your blog and it is a treasure trove! I will have to dive into it a little more during my commute I think! I see animé, I see conventions … I see myself haha 😛
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***Walks in mumbling to himself about the disappointment of the Square E3 presentation…***
Hey everyone! I’m Imtiaz and I run the blog http://www.powerbombattack.com where I write mainly video game reviews and ramble on the occasional thought that comes to my mind. You can also find my podcast there or on itunes. I run it solo for now and always looking for ways to improve it so would love to hear some feedback.
Although my podcast has been fun to record and edit as of late, I wanted to share my post about Star Wars day, May the 4th.
https://powerbombattack.com/2018/05/04/may-the-4th-be-with-you-always/
This was a fun post to write because of 3 reasons.
1) I actually remembered it was Star Wars day this time…
2) I always love talking about Star Wars
3) It’s always great to look back on how something captured your imagination as a child
Re-collecting all the things that made Star Wars great for my from the movies to the video games was super fun to re-collect, that I simply had to share it with everyone.
For my treat, my buddy Link over from Hyrule passed along some Gourmet Spiced Meat Skewers he whipped up in his little pot. We just gotta throw these babies on the grill and let our hearts will with joy!
Until then…
*** heads to the dance floor and busts out the Mass Effect “Shepard Shuffle” ***
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Hi Imtiaz… you always manage to bring the best song choices (and great posts) to a blog party ha ha ha! I’m going to have this one stuck in the head for the rest of the evening now. 😂
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Reblogged this on DDOCentral.
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A 1978 Ford Mustang Mark II King Cobra comes to a halt silently. Out comes the driver, wearing a brown leather jacket, flared jeans with large aviator sunglasses and shoulder-length hair. He so obviously wants to be David Bowie. He’s the Purple Prose Mage, and has just started a new, daily series of posts in which he describes in brief his 50 favourite games. It started yesterday: https://alexsigsworth.wordpress.com/2018/06/11/top-50-video-games-50/
As soon he steps through the door, everyone turns to look at him. He takes a bite out of a hot dog. “Peaches” by The Strangers starts playing and he struts toward the crowd. He’s been away on a four-day weekend, so he’s arrived for the last quarter. But that means he can party harder.
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If there was an award for best blog party entrance, you and The Well-Red Mage would cut it close. But you might just inch out in front with a song choice like that…
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How nice of you to throw me a birthday party! I’m serious… I turned a whole year older today, and here all you nice folks are with lots of food and gifts! I’m late to the party because I had to see the rest of my company off.
I have brought some leftover birthday cake with me to this great festive party, along with some leftover potato salad! I was told to put my feet up today, so sorry it’s not freshly made. I have also brought the 10-hour version of Dr. Mario vs. victory music with me to play while people are shuffling out. Victory for another year on this earth, and victory for a wonderfully splendid blog party!
I run a retro video game collecting blog over at http://www.hungrygoriya.wordpress.com, and occasionally talk a bit about the games I’ve played or other things related to game collecting. Though collecting has been awfully slow for the past few months and updates have become more and more sporadic, I did make it out to a few game swaps in April and May and I found some great games there. Here’s a post from a May swap: https://hungrygoriya.wordpress.com/2018/05/17/hamsters-penguins-and-sunlight-a-swap/
I’m going to find my spot in the corner now and let twilight settle in before the bass starts pumpin’!
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Oh wow… lots of birthday wishes for yesterday, and thanks for making the time for stopping by on your day! Did you have a good one? 🙂
*proceeds to herd everyone together for a rousing chorus of Happy Birthday, before launching into 10-hours of victory music*
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It was a very busy but lovely day/weekend with lots of loved ones popping in, and lots of love from my internet friends as well! I couldn’t have asked for a more lovely day or bunch of people to have in my life!
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Aw that’s really good to hear! Hope you ate more than your body’s weight in birthday cake! Ha ha ha
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If any of you fancy a giggle at my poor attempts at gaming, check out my blog. As much as I enjoy a good game as much as the next person I am no where near a pro…heres one of my fav gaming posts, and if you fancy drop me a follow and I can follow you back.
https://hopelessblogweb.wordpress.com/2017/06/14/how-to-play-civ-5-like-a-girl/
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Hey everybody! Visit my blog at [this out-of-context link has been edited by Later Levels – please think before you comment!].
It is a blog where anything and everything can be found. Just ask for it. I love blogging for my lovely readers so Check out my blog!
Thanks!
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