Of all the things I've learned from playing Magic, two lessons stand out:
1. The perfect game is not made of one big perfect play. It is made up of small good plays that accumulate into one perfect game.
2. Play to get lucky. Don't dig yourself into a hole, play in such a way that if/when your winning ace comes your way, you're in a position to win. Even though you might be missing something, making bad plays and bad decisions, don't let it affect your future plays and decisions. Play through it. Things might not be going your way right now, but that's not an excuse to not do the right thing. Keep your head in the game, and you might just crawl back and win it.
Monday, October 13, 2008
Friday, October 10, 2008
On life and living
In the old days, the Greeks didn't have obituaries. When another of them passed away, they only asked one question: Did he have passion? If he had passion, then he had truly lived.
How about you? Do you have passion? Are you truly alive?
How about you? Do you have passion? Are you truly alive?
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
On having two left feet
People make mistakes. It's natural. We miscalculate, and some things go wrong.
When these things happen, the best thing to do is fix it. It's not the time for finger pointing - it just wastes time and doesn't help in anything. Recover, identify and fix the problem. After all's well and done, that's the only time when you analyze why the problem occurred, so that next time it (hopefully) won't happen again.
The important thing is to NEVER LOSE COMPOSURE. Or at least, don't lose it all. Panic and anxiety won't bring you closer to solving anything.
When these things happen, the best thing to do is fix it. It's not the time for finger pointing - it just wastes time and doesn't help in anything. Recover, identify and fix the problem. After all's well and done, that's the only time when you analyze why the problem occurred, so that next time it (hopefully) won't happen again.
The important thing is to NEVER LOSE COMPOSURE. Or at least, don't lose it all. Panic and anxiety won't bring you closer to solving anything.
Wednesday, August 06, 2008
Delayed Gratification
In our Psychology of Learning class, we talked about rewards. Rewards are anything that can make a person happy, like food or money or whatever. And as you could imagine, rewards are used to encourage certain behaviors, like studying or exercise or whatever. More specifically, we talked about the difference in getting a smaller reward sooner and a larger reward later.
More often than not, the larger reward definitely is worth more than the smaller reward. Obvious, isn't it? But, more often than not, people take the smaller sooner reward over the later larger reward. Why? Because it's there. Getting something right now is easier and more certain than getting something later. This piece of candy, for example, is here right now but the 5 pieces of candy promised to you tomorrow might not be there. If you look closely, this behavior is counter-intuitive. Why would people settle for less when they can strive for more?
So the dilemma now is, do you get the smaller sooner reward or the later larger reward? Ask yourself this: Is your will strong enough? Are you in total control of your instincts? Be a real human, and overcome yourself. Think. What's worth more?
More often than not, the larger reward definitely is worth more than the smaller reward. Obvious, isn't it? But, more often than not, people take the smaller sooner reward over the later larger reward. Why? Because it's there. Getting something right now is easier and more certain than getting something later. This piece of candy, for example, is here right now but the 5 pieces of candy promised to you tomorrow might not be there. If you look closely, this behavior is counter-intuitive. Why would people settle for less when they can strive for more?
So the dilemma now is, do you get the smaller sooner reward or the later larger reward? Ask yourself this: Is your will strong enough? Are you in total control of your instincts? Be a real human, and overcome yourself. Think. What's worth more?
Sunday, August 03, 2008
On Sickness and on Health
I know you want to push yourself, want to reachwhat you aim for, and do everything in your power to get what you want.
But.
There's a fine line between pushing yourself to the limit and crossing that limit and killing yourself.
But.
There's a fine line between pushing yourself to the limit and crossing that limit and killing yourself.
Friday, July 25, 2008
Like Peanut Butter
There are those of us who have myriad lot of things to attend to. We try to balance our acads, org life, social life, family, friends, hobbies etc. And sometimes we tend to spread ourselves too thin, to attempt to attend to one thing while sacrificing another. That's perfectly understandable, of course - we can't be in more than one place at the same time.
Just remember, when you make your peanut butter sandwich, make sure that it's evenly spread. No lumps on one part and blanks on another. Spread it out evenly, thin as it may be. That way, more of the bread would be filled, and it'll be more satisfying.
Just remember, when you make your peanut butter sandwich, make sure that it's evenly spread. No lumps on one part and blanks on another. Spread it out evenly, thin as it may be. That way, more of the bread would be filled, and it'll be more satisfying.
Sunday, July 13, 2008
Friday, July 11, 2008
On Keeping Strong Ties
This week has been a sort of connecting week for me.
Last Monday, it was back to arnis training for me. This wasn't really new, but I'm one of the laziest trainees there and I took a week off, so that was my first day back. And Because we now have Mondays off instead of Wednesdays, it's Monday training for me. After training, I got to talk with our coach, and I was reminded of... the future.
Last Wednesday, I got to drop by Ateneo. My bro needed to get some stuff from a friend of his, but he's at work so I had to do it. Since I was there, I met up with some of the Aboys as well. It's been a long time since I roamed around Ateneo during class hours, and it's been a long time since I hooked up with my boys. So there, it was a productive afternoon.
Yesterday, I went to Gab's despidida party at Shakey's. He's going to the World Youth Day (week?) next week, and he wanted to get everyone together before he left. Because it was such a momentous occasion, there were people there whom I haven't seen in a long time. Which was opportune, because I've been missing some people lately.
Today, Nikko treated me to halo-halo! He's going abroad for his junior term next week, and he wanted to go out before he went. I haven't seen him since... I don't know, last year?... and it was good to know that he still hasn't changed. Still the crazy long-haired korean lol.
And lastly, this afternoon, I went with a couple of my friends to console our favorite flirty girl. She's in a very trying time in her life for the past few days (and days to come), so we thought that it would be apt to spend a lot more time with her. That's what friends are for, right?
Try it. Connect to people, strengthen your ties. You'd be surprised at how fulfilling it is.
Last Monday, it was back to arnis training for me. This wasn't really new, but I'm one of the laziest trainees there and I took a week off, so that was my first day back. And Because we now have Mondays off instead of Wednesdays, it's Monday training for me. After training, I got to talk with our coach, and I was reminded of... the future.
Last Wednesday, I got to drop by Ateneo. My bro needed to get some stuff from a friend of his, but he's at work so I had to do it. Since I was there, I met up with some of the Aboys as well. It's been a long time since I roamed around Ateneo during class hours, and it's been a long time since I hooked up with my boys. So there, it was a productive afternoon.
Yesterday, I went to Gab's despidida party at Shakey's. He's going to the World Youth Day (week?) next week, and he wanted to get everyone together before he left. Because it was such a momentous occasion, there were people there whom I haven't seen in a long time. Which was opportune, because I've been missing some people lately.
Today, Nikko treated me to halo-halo! He's going abroad for his junior term next week, and he wanted to go out before he went. I haven't seen him since... I don't know, last year?... and it was good to know that he still hasn't changed. Still the crazy long-haired korean lol.
And lastly, this afternoon, I went with a couple of my friends to console our favorite flirty girl. She's in a very trying time in her life for the past few days (and days to come), so we thought that it would be apt to spend a lot more time with her. That's what friends are for, right?
Try it. Connect to people, strengthen your ties. You'd be surprised at how fulfilling it is.
Wednesday, July 09, 2008
On awareness of self and others
Otherwise known as compassion.
To be compassionate, you have to feel strongly about something (passion), and feel it coming from another (the suffix co-). Compassion, our word of the day.
Last Saturday, I held my alcohol. Back in the day, I used to get pushed by my friends to drink. A lot. And I oblige. Peer pressure, much? It felt like I had to prove something, so I just go with the flow, to the point of... well, bad things happen. But last Saturady... well, I didn't feel the need to prove myself. Why prove myself? Just go out there and have a great time. You (or at least, I) don't need a lot of alcohol to have fun, don't you agree? (no, don't answer that)
Today, I learned a valuable lesson. It's not enough to be aware only of my own back. I should also be aware of other people's backs. They might not directly affect me (or they might), but they are people. Who affect other people. And if I don't know what's going on, how am I to act on the situation? And now that I'm older (and wiser?), I should be in the position to watch out for more backs. Because, in the end, everyone affects everyone else.
To be compassionate, you have to feel strongly about something (passion), and feel it coming from another (the suffix co-). Compassion, our word of the day.
Last Saturday, I held my alcohol. Back in the day, I used to get pushed by my friends to drink. A lot. And I oblige. Peer pressure, much? It felt like I had to prove something, so I just go with the flow, to the point of... well, bad things happen. But last Saturady... well, I didn't feel the need to prove myself. Why prove myself? Just go out there and have a great time. You (or at least, I) don't need a lot of alcohol to have fun, don't you agree? (no, don't answer that)
Today, I learned a valuable lesson. It's not enough to be aware only of my own back. I should also be aware of other people's backs. They might not directly affect me (or they might), but they are people. Who affect other people. And if I don't know what's going on, how am I to act on the situation? And now that I'm older (and wiser?), I should be in the position to watch out for more backs. Because, in the end, everyone affects everyone else.
Saturday, July 05, 2008
On my two loves
Yesterday, I gunslinged with the Magic boys in front of Casaa. (gunslinged/gunslinging is just a fancy term for bringing a deck and playing with random people) And my sliver deck won 3-0! Instant classic lol. I should definitely do this more often. I need to know more people, and I need to satiate my hunger for playing Magic. And hey, what kind of hobbyist am I when I don't support my own hobby.
Today, my committee rapped. Yes, for our performance (every committee had to present something), all four of us spit a few lines. It was hilarious, I swear, but it also was pretty fun. And memorable. And maybe a bit embarrassing. At least, I could proudly say that I've freestyled once in my life.
Today, my committee rapped. Yes, for our performance (every committee had to present something), all four of us spit a few lines. It was hilarious, I swear, but it also was pretty fun. And memorable. And maybe a bit embarrassing. At least, I could proudly say that I've freestyled once in my life.
A fresh journey
Today, I start off a new thread. Being the adventurous soul that I am, it's about time I share some of my more memorable exploits. But understand: This isn't about me. This is a challenge to you, my dear readers. What have YOU done lately? And don't tell me you've been studying, I won't believe you.
Live a little. I dare you.
Live a little. I dare you.
Wednesday, August 01, 2007
In Commemoration
Quote/Question/Theory of the day:
"It is not a celebration of the day of birth, it is a celebration of the event of being born"
And so, I dub August 1 as the celebration of the birth of Losman's World
Cheers! For two awesome years together, and more to come
... probably not as awesome. Coolness on a different level. Watch out for it
But for now... I'm so proud of my baby. 3 years and still running! Not real strong, but running still :)
Good job!
"It is not a celebration of the day of birth, it is a celebration of the event of being born"
And so, I dub August 1 as the celebration of the birth of Losman's World
Cheers! For two awesome years together, and more to come
... probably not as awesome. Coolness on a different level. Watch out for it
But for now... I'm so proud of my baby. 3 years and still running! Not real strong, but running still :)
Good job!
Saturday, May 05, 2007
Chapter 14: The plus
Quote/Question/Theory of the day:
"Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure"
Hi - Psych Basketball!
Lo - bano ko na naman :|
After beating the last boss in most RPGs, you would most likely just watch the ending cinematics then skip the credits part. The game's done, anyways, so why not bust out another one? Well, for most games. Some, like Chrono Trigger and Parasite Eve 2, make you stay through the whole ending so that you could save the game. Saving the game... at the end? You see, they have a thing they call the "New Game +". You get to start from the top, but with bonuses. You start with the items you had when you finished it the first time, you get some extra points, you get to do things that you couldn't have done the first time around (Like getting a way to get to a hidden final boss to produce the hidden ending). You get to start from the top, but this time you have the biggest advantage you could get - experience. You already know what the game has in store, and you are prepared for it. And on the way, you could get what you missed the first time. You could have the perfect game.
It's been more than a year since I first stepped on UP. It's been more than a year since I first started this series. And in that year, I've faced numerous exams, projects and tests. I've tackled tons of assignments and groupworks and I've had my share of good profs and bad profs. I've worked hard for my org, and I still do. But most importantly, i've finished one year in UP, of which I'm thankful for (and I still have that scholarship!). Now, I'm gonna do it all over again. More tests, more work, more profs, more org/psych stuff. I have another year improve on it, to get better, to smoothen out some kinks. But instead of starting from scratch, I have experience. The ultimate advantage. And I plan to use it. And why not? The worse I can get is to finish where I started. New school year, new life. It starts here. Again.
So like last time, I begin my journey. I know it still won't be easy, but it's still worth it. I know it is. You with me? Let's go, they're waiting.
"Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure"
Hi - Psych Basketball!
Lo - bano ko na naman :|
After beating the last boss in most RPGs, you would most likely just watch the ending cinematics then skip the credits part. The game's done, anyways, so why not bust out another one? Well, for most games. Some, like Chrono Trigger and Parasite Eve 2, make you stay through the whole ending so that you could save the game. Saving the game... at the end? You see, they have a thing they call the "New Game +". You get to start from the top, but with bonuses. You start with the items you had when you finished it the first time, you get some extra points, you get to do things that you couldn't have done the first time around (Like getting a way to get to a hidden final boss to produce the hidden ending). You get to start from the top, but this time you have the biggest advantage you could get - experience. You already know what the game has in store, and you are prepared for it. And on the way, you could get what you missed the first time. You could have the perfect game.
It's been more than a year since I first stepped on UP. It's been more than a year since I first started this series. And in that year, I've faced numerous exams, projects and tests. I've tackled tons of assignments and groupworks and I've had my share of good profs and bad profs. I've worked hard for my org, and I still do. But most importantly, i've finished one year in UP, of which I'm thankful for (and I still have that scholarship!). Now, I'm gonna do it all over again. More tests, more work, more profs, more org/psych stuff. I have another year improve on it, to get better, to smoothen out some kinks. But instead of starting from scratch, I have experience. The ultimate advantage. And I plan to use it. And why not? The worse I can get is to finish where I started. New school year, new life. It starts here. Again.
So like last time, I begin my journey. I know it still won't be easy, but it's still worth it. I know it is. You with me? Let's go, they're waiting.
Monday, April 16, 2007
Chapter 13: The End?
Quote/Question/Theory of the day:
"Parked car, this night sky, makes city lights shine like diamonds"
Hi - Ha Yuan lunch. mmmmm...
Lo - mainit na. crap...
After the final boss, the last attack, the ultimate spell, the finishing move, it is all over. Time to relax. Time to watch the last fmv, to close the story, to see the ending. To see if things did work out. Did you beat the bad guy? Did you save the world? Did you get the girl? Most probably yes. Well, most stories have happy endings, you know. So after the credits, what now? Some would most probably rest a while. Others would immediately pick up a game. A few would even wait until the final moment before shutting down the console, because some easter egg or hidden scene is left the the very end of the fmv. There might be a chance to save your game so that you get a whole lot of stuff for your "New Game +". Well, whatever it is, you just have to move on.
That leaves us... what now? After that friggin finals, hassle term paper, frustrating group project, what now? One word - SUMMER. Time to relax, go to the beach, watch tv, sleep all day and eat during your waking hours. Or whatever gets you through. But before you do, stop for a while. Did the year/term/sem work out for you? Did you get the grades that you wanted? Did you learn anything? Hopefully. Most stories have happy endings. If your's didn't... well, there's always the sequel. Or the next game. Or "New Game +". As for now, enjoy it. You just finished one heck of a year, that's enough to be proud about. There's always next year, next sem, but right now... there's summer. Whether it be summer vacation or summer classes, enjoy it. It's just another adventure waiting.
So, sit back, relax, and enjoy the show. You've earned it.
"Parked car, this night sky, makes city lights shine like diamonds"
Hi - Ha Yuan lunch. mmmmm...
Lo - mainit na. crap...
After the final boss, the last attack, the ultimate spell, the finishing move, it is all over. Time to relax. Time to watch the last fmv, to close the story, to see the ending. To see if things did work out. Did you beat the bad guy? Did you save the world? Did you get the girl? Most probably yes. Well, most stories have happy endings, you know. So after the credits, what now? Some would most probably rest a while. Others would immediately pick up a game. A few would even wait until the final moment before shutting down the console, because some easter egg or hidden scene is left the the very end of the fmv. There might be a chance to save your game so that you get a whole lot of stuff for your "New Game +". Well, whatever it is, you just have to move on.
That leaves us... what now? After that friggin finals, hassle term paper, frustrating group project, what now? One word - SUMMER. Time to relax, go to the beach, watch tv, sleep all day and eat during your waking hours. Or whatever gets you through. But before you do, stop for a while. Did the year/term/sem work out for you? Did you get the grades that you wanted? Did you learn anything? Hopefully. Most stories have happy endings. If your's didn't... well, there's always the sequel. Or the next game. Or "New Game +". As for now, enjoy it. You just finished one heck of a year, that's enough to be proud about. There's always next year, next sem, but right now... there's summer. Whether it be summer vacation or summer classes, enjoy it. It's just another adventure waiting.
So, sit back, relax, and enjoy the show. You've earned it.
Friday, March 23, 2007
Chaper 12: The Last Push
Quote/Question/Theory of the day:
"Hardwork pays off"
Hi - KOBE!!!
Lo - Bio test. x.x
The final battle. The battle you've been preparing for the whole game. It's the reason you got the ultima swords, the aegis shields, the omnislashes and the ultimate skills and spells. The reason why you went through all the trouble of beating all the hidden bosses and finished all the secret sidequests. The reason why you beat all those dragons and cactuars to get to lvl99, with 9999(9)hp and 999(9)mp. The end of it all. And usually, you don't just face one big monster. You go through a number of mini-bosses, or a probably just a whole lot of monsters. Just like in FF6, where you have to face around 3 bad-ass bosses before you get a crack at Kefka himself. They're there to test to you, to see if you're really worthy and capable of finishing it all. And hey, that's why you spent hours upon hours preparing, hunting, getting ready to kick ass.
Just like hell week. The name says it all. Hell - so freaking stressful. Week - so freaking long. Days upon days of sleepless nights and caffiene filled days. The final battle of every sem. The reason for all the library work, the problem solving, the group discussions. Not exactly the thing we've been waiting for, but rather it's the one we never lose sight of. Hell week is the ultimate test of whether or not we deserve to pass. We're given wave upon wave of requirements and tests, from harmless homework to reaction papers, from 5pt quizzes to 100pt tests. That's excluding the finals, the main event. They don't care if we do well or not, they just give it to us. But we care, and we take everything in. That's why we spent all those hours locked up in the room, finishing reading upon reading, theory upon theory, problem upon. Preparing, waiting, getting ready to kick ass.
They dare doubt that we can make it? They dare doubt that we can't take them on? Come on, time for some big time ass kickin. Let's finish this.
"Hardwork pays off"
Hi - KOBE!!!
Lo - Bio test. x.x
The final battle. The battle you've been preparing for the whole game. It's the reason you got the ultima swords, the aegis shields, the omnislashes and the ultimate skills and spells. The reason why you went through all the trouble of beating all the hidden bosses and finished all the secret sidequests. The reason why you beat all those dragons and cactuars to get to lvl99, with 9999(9)hp and 999(9)mp. The end of it all. And usually, you don't just face one big monster. You go through a number of mini-bosses, or a probably just a whole lot of monsters. Just like in FF6, where you have to face around 3 bad-ass bosses before you get a crack at Kefka himself. They're there to test to you, to see if you're really worthy and capable of finishing it all. And hey, that's why you spent hours upon hours preparing, hunting, getting ready to kick ass.
Just like hell week. The name says it all. Hell - so freaking stressful. Week - so freaking long. Days upon days of sleepless nights and caffiene filled days. The final battle of every sem. The reason for all the library work, the problem solving, the group discussions. Not exactly the thing we've been waiting for, but rather it's the one we never lose sight of. Hell week is the ultimate test of whether or not we deserve to pass. We're given wave upon wave of requirements and tests, from harmless homework to reaction papers, from 5pt quizzes to 100pt tests. That's excluding the finals, the main event. They don't care if we do well or not, they just give it to us. But we care, and we take everything in. That's why we spent all those hours locked up in the room, finishing reading upon reading, theory upon theory, problem upon. Preparing, waiting, getting ready to kick ass.
They dare doubt that we can make it? They dare doubt that we can't take them on? Come on, time for some big time ass kickin. Let's finish this.
Wednesday, February 07, 2007
Chapter 11: Turning Point
Quote/Question/Theory of the day:
"Some men have greatness thrust in them. Others are thrust to greatness"
Hi - Planar Chaos! 8DDDDD
Lo - 3-5 boo...
How did would you feel if, out of nowhere, some guy tells you that you're the key to saving the world? Whoaaa... Like when Terra was told that she was destined to be the missing key for world peace. Or when Cloud turned from goat to G.O.A.T. Or when Sora was given the keyblade and told to go save the world. He's a kid! And they expect him to be some superherosavior guy! And what did he do? Well... he saved the world. Well, not quite, but he stepped it up big time. Sure he might have felt overwhelmed and scared and all, but he overcame all that. He didn't let his faults and emotions get the better of him. He focused, he stepped it up, he beat big bad Maleficent, Ansem and even Sepiroth and was memorable enough to get into a sequel.
Stepping up. Such a short phrase, but carries a whole lot of weight. It means to improve one's self, to rise to the occasion, to go to the next level. But, what triggers someone to turn from roleplayer to superstar in a snap? A challenge. A time when those around you turn to you for an answer. A chance to prove yourself. There comes a time... or times... in your life that you are pushed, you are tested. What would you do? When you are put in that situation, you either back out or take it on. Head on. You give it everything you've got because you know that there's no other way. You'd rather die than let yourself fail. Your pride won't let you fail, because that just plain sucks.
Come on. Rise up, take the challenge, save the world and get the girl. They're waiting.
"Some men have greatness thrust in them. Others are thrust to greatness"
Hi - Planar Chaos! 8DDDDD
Lo - 3-5 boo...
How did would you feel if, out of nowhere, some guy tells you that you're the key to saving the world? Whoaaa... Like when Terra was told that she was destined to be the missing key for world peace. Or when Cloud turned from goat to G.O.A.T. Or when Sora was given the keyblade and told to go save the world. He's a kid! And they expect him to be some superherosavior guy! And what did he do? Well... he saved the world. Well, not quite, but he stepped it up big time. Sure he might have felt overwhelmed and scared and all, but he overcame all that. He didn't let his faults and emotions get the better of him. He focused, he stepped it up, he beat big bad Maleficent, Ansem and even Sepiroth and was memorable enough to get into a sequel.
Stepping up. Such a short phrase, but carries a whole lot of weight. It means to improve one's self, to rise to the occasion, to go to the next level. But, what triggers someone to turn from roleplayer to superstar in a snap? A challenge. A time when those around you turn to you for an answer. A chance to prove yourself. There comes a time... or times... in your life that you are pushed, you are tested. What would you do? When you are put in that situation, you either back out or take it on. Head on. You give it everything you've got because you know that there's no other way. You'd rather die than let yourself fail. Your pride won't let you fail, because that just plain sucks.
Come on. Rise up, take the challenge, save the world and get the girl. They're waiting.
Monday, November 27, 2006
Chapter 10: Where to?
Quote/Question/Theory of the day:
"Just help me right my wrongs, but it's funny how these wrongs helped me write this song "
Hi - foodtrip lastnight and today
Lo - Murphy's Law
I hate it when I get stuck. Not the under-levelled-and-can't-beat-boss stuck. The one where you don't know what to do. No idea where to go, what to do, who to talk to. Like in Wild Arms, where I've never gotten past the part where your character gets jailed. Or in Chrono Trigger, where every move (or lack of movement) would make or break the game (the ending at least). Or whether to get Claude or Rena in Star Ocean (beeeh Balma, kilala ko sila XD), which really makes a huge difference. To get through, you could a) get a walkthrough and get it over with or b) just play and hopefully something gets done. However, how would you know if you're doing the right thing, making the right decisions? Simple - if a) you're not dead and b) you're getting somewhere. I don't know how you determine the latter, but I'm sure you know how to avoid the former.
In life, making decisions is just as frustrating. Most of the time, you don't know what to do. And when you do know what to do, you might not be sure that what you're doing is the right thing. Are the things that you do right now the right things, things that would lead you closer to the best ending? Are you missing some things that might help you get through life? Are you enjoying what you're doing? Well, I don't really know how to determine the right way and the wrong way. But just like in RPGs, you could a) ask for help, or b) do it on your own. Either way, you just go on with your life. Chances are, you're on the right track. Or close to it. If not, just don't give up. You can't finish the game if it's Game Over.
"Just help me right my wrongs, but it's funny how these wrongs helped me write this song "
Hi - foodtrip lastnight and today
Lo - Murphy's Law
I hate it when I get stuck. Not the under-levelled-and-can't-beat-boss stuck. The one where you don't know what to do. No idea where to go, what to do, who to talk to. Like in Wild Arms, where I've never gotten past the part where your character gets jailed. Or in Chrono Trigger, where every move (or lack of movement) would make or break the game (the ending at least). Or whether to get Claude or Rena in Star Ocean (beeeh Balma, kilala ko sila XD), which really makes a huge difference. To get through, you could a) get a walkthrough and get it over with or b) just play and hopefully something gets done. However, how would you know if you're doing the right thing, making the right decisions? Simple - if a) you're not dead and b) you're getting somewhere. I don't know how you determine the latter, but I'm sure you know how to avoid the former.
In life, making decisions is just as frustrating. Most of the time, you don't know what to do. And when you do know what to do, you might not be sure that what you're doing is the right thing. Are the things that you do right now the right things, things that would lead you closer to the best ending? Are you missing some things that might help you get through life? Are you enjoying what you're doing? Well, I don't really know how to determine the right way and the wrong way. But just like in RPGs, you could a) ask for help, or b) do it on your own. Either way, you just go on with your life. Chances are, you're on the right track. Or close to it. If not, just don't give up. You can't finish the game if it's Game Over.
Tuesday, October 24, 2006
Chapter 9: Timeout
Quote/Question/Theory of the day:
"Dear Kim,Kamustang bakasyon mo?
Ako heto pa rin nababato"
Hi - Eastwood. movie.
Lo - bagal ng net :|
The mark of a good RPG for me is when it still has time for good mini-games. I SO love mini-games. More than half my playing time is in mini-games. From cards to gummi ships to elaborate strategy games, it's just so nice to have a healthy distraction midgame. It relaxes you from the stresses of boss battles and item hunting. Sure, you stop levelling up a bit, but you also get to get your mind off the game. If you play to win too much, the game becomes less fun and more of a chore. Once in a while, it's nice to forget about the game, forget about that elusive secret weapon or unbeatable boss. Sit back, relax, and let Tidus shoot some half-court goals XD
This is it. Sembreak. The only time of the year where one can really sit back, relax and forget about everything. No math, no foreign lang, no chem or majors (yet), no nothing. Just fun. It's a healthy and much needed respite from all the stresses of the past sem. Sure, you aren't studying, learning in school and preparing for the next sem... but who cares? We have a sembreak to get our minds out off academics. If you study too much, it becomes less fullfilling and more boring. Once in a while, it's nice to forget about school, forget about that elusive uno/4 or whatever goal you're chasing. So sit back and relax. Get lots of sleep, go out for a drink or a movie, play some basketball, Dota or Counterstrike or whatever. I know you want to.
I know I do :)
"Dear Kim,Kamustang bakasyon mo?
Ako heto pa rin nababato"
Hi - Eastwood. movie.
Lo - bagal ng net :|
The mark of a good RPG for me is when it still has time for good mini-games. I SO love mini-games. More than half my playing time is in mini-games. From cards to gummi ships to elaborate strategy games, it's just so nice to have a healthy distraction midgame. It relaxes you from the stresses of boss battles and item hunting. Sure, you stop levelling up a bit, but you also get to get your mind off the game. If you play to win too much, the game becomes less fun and more of a chore. Once in a while, it's nice to forget about the game, forget about that elusive secret weapon or unbeatable boss. Sit back, relax, and let Tidus shoot some half-court goals XD
This is it. Sembreak. The only time of the year where one can really sit back, relax and forget about everything. No math, no foreign lang, no chem or majors (yet), no nothing. Just fun. It's a healthy and much needed respite from all the stresses of the past sem. Sure, you aren't studying, learning in school and preparing for the next sem... but who cares? We have a sembreak to get our minds out off academics. If you study too much, it becomes less fullfilling and more boring. Once in a while, it's nice to forget about school, forget about that elusive uno/4 or whatever goal you're chasing. So sit back and relax. Get lots of sleep, go out for a drink or a movie, play some basketball, Dota or Counterstrike or whatever. I know you want to.
I know I do :)
Tuesday, October 17, 2006
Chapter 8: Insert Disc 2
Quote/Question/Theory of the day:
"Like VC said, It's over"
Hi - tapos na, period
Lo - boooored :|
In the "old" days of the PS1 (and not the slim, portable one. the fat grey one), most RPGs came in more than one CD. FF7 to 9 came in 3 or 4 discs, Xenogears came in 2 discs, and even Parasite Eve (not exactly an RPG, but one of my fave games) came in a double-disc. Because of this, the story had to be cut, or interrupted, at one point. You could usually sense when you'd need to change the CD, but it was usually a "bitin" feeling. A mix of "...That's it?" and "Awww... It's over..." and "I'm excited!" It's a feeling of acomplishment and anticipation. You're happy that one CD is over, and bracing yourself for the next part. However, unless you're making a speed record, it's also a time to stop and rest a bit. You think of the things you've done, the things you've missed (and might not get back. booo), and the things that's about to be done. But for now, save the game, stand up, stretch a bit and rest your eyes. You've earned it.
In the "old" days of Grade School and High School, finishing a quarter/term wasn't really a big thing. It's just one big roadblock, because just a few days after that, it's work again. There's not much feeling of accomplishment, since... I dunno... It's not as emotional as a college sem. A HS term is not as draining, stressful and emotional as a college sem, I'd think most of us agrees. And as such, the time after the finals is such a... happy experience. Goodbye to the friggin profs and memorable classmates. Hello 3/4 week sembreak! But for now, it's a time to think. Think of what I've done the past sem, what I didn't do (and still want to do), and what I'm gonna do the next sem. Finishing a sem is something to be proud about, but it's not something to be overly fullfilled about. Still got a long ways to go. But for now, store your books somewhere, forget about acads, go out, and rest a bit. We've earned it.
Excited about the sembreak, excited about next sem, excited about college.
Yeah
"Like VC said, It's over"
Hi - tapos na, period
Lo - boooored :|
In the "old" days of the PS1 (and not the slim, portable one. the fat grey one), most RPGs came in more than one CD. FF7 to 9 came in 3 or 4 discs, Xenogears came in 2 discs, and even Parasite Eve (not exactly an RPG, but one of my fave games) came in a double-disc. Because of this, the story had to be cut, or interrupted, at one point. You could usually sense when you'd need to change the CD, but it was usually a "bitin" feeling. A mix of "...That's it?" and "Awww... It's over..." and "I'm excited!" It's a feeling of acomplishment and anticipation. You're happy that one CD is over, and bracing yourself for the next part. However, unless you're making a speed record, it's also a time to stop and rest a bit. You think of the things you've done, the things you've missed (and might not get back. booo), and the things that's about to be done. But for now, save the game, stand up, stretch a bit and rest your eyes. You've earned it.
In the "old" days of Grade School and High School, finishing a quarter/term wasn't really a big thing. It's just one big roadblock, because just a few days after that, it's work again. There's not much feeling of accomplishment, since... I dunno... It's not as emotional as a college sem. A HS term is not as draining, stressful and emotional as a college sem, I'd think most of us agrees. And as such, the time after the finals is such a... happy experience. Goodbye to the friggin profs and memorable classmates. Hello 3/4 week sembreak! But for now, it's a time to think. Think of what I've done the past sem, what I didn't do (and still want to do), and what I'm gonna do the next sem. Finishing a sem is something to be proud about, but it's not something to be overly fullfilled about. Still got a long ways to go. But for now, store your books somewhere, forget about acads, go out, and rest a bit. We've earned it.
Excited about the sembreak, excited about next sem, excited about college.
Yeah
Sunday, October 15, 2006
Chapter 7: Showtime
Quote/Question/Theory of the day:
"I hope my feet don't fail me now"
Hi - sleeeeeeeep. mmmm...
Lo - headache. argh...
Wow. It's been a long time since my last post. Soreh! :)
Anyways, one of the most exciting parts in an RPG is the boss battle. From the first boss to the final boss to the hidden boss, it's always a special feeling. It's a mixture of "I'ma beat yo ass!" and "Oh my... what if I lose?..." All those hours of leveling up, getting the right equipment, learning the right skills and stocking up the right potions get tested. You get to see if what you've done the past few hours will pay off. You either go all out, or you fail. Give it your all, or get screwed. Either way, you can't go around it. For the game to continue, you have to beat the boss. So, check your level, check your items, say a little prayer, and jump right in. I'm sure you've levelled up enough, right? Right?
From grade school, to high school and here in college, taking the exams/finals are always... special. It's not something you really get excited over, but you look forward to it. You prepare for it, study long for it, and make sure that you won't get screwed by it. Did I get my facts straight? Did I memorize my formulas enough? Do I have enough essay ideas? Prepared or not, there's no going around the finals (well, unless you're exempted. That's a different story). You pass, or you fail. Either way, you give it your all. For your schooling to continue, you have to pass. You have to own it. So, you check your facts, check your formulas, say a little prayer, and jump right in. Finals, here I come.
"I hope my feet don't fail me now"
Hi - sleeeeeeeep. mmmm...
Lo - headache. argh...
Wow. It's been a long time since my last post. Soreh! :)
Anyways, one of the most exciting parts in an RPG is the boss battle. From the first boss to the final boss to the hidden boss, it's always a special feeling. It's a mixture of "I'ma beat yo ass!" and "Oh my... what if I lose?..." All those hours of leveling up, getting the right equipment, learning the right skills and stocking up the right potions get tested. You get to see if what you've done the past few hours will pay off. You either go all out, or you fail. Give it your all, or get screwed. Either way, you can't go around it. For the game to continue, you have to beat the boss. So, check your level, check your items, say a little prayer, and jump right in. I'm sure you've levelled up enough, right? Right?
From grade school, to high school and here in college, taking the exams/finals are always... special. It's not something you really get excited over, but you look forward to it. You prepare for it, study long for it, and make sure that you won't get screwed by it. Did I get my facts straight? Did I memorize my formulas enough? Do I have enough essay ideas? Prepared or not, there's no going around the finals (well, unless you're exempted. That's a different story). You pass, or you fail. Either way, you give it your all. For your schooling to continue, you have to pass. You have to own it. So, you check your facts, check your formulas, say a little prayer, and jump right in. Finals, here I come.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)