I'm going to post these here, and provide a link to this blog entry on my main channel, to save some space in my channel description. I should also be able to provide more detailed responses to the questions.
If you have a question you feel is frequently asked, and is missing, feel free to suggest it. If you need clarification on any of my responses, just ask.
Thanks.
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1) What programs do I use?
* Sony Vegas 7.0 (For all videos before and including In the End)
* Sony Vegas 8.0 Pro (For all recent and future videos)
* FRAPS (High quality, full screen recording)
* Hypercam (For recording quick scenes, that I may not need, such as quests)
* Audacity (I do any audio editing, such as voices, here)
* Adobe Photoshop CS3 (Most, if not all, my edited images are made through this)
2) Can I add you?
The answer is no, for many reasons. For one, I do not even have enough space to add all of my real friends, those who I talk to often and do activities with. But perhaps more importantly is that I probably do not even know you. It's rough when someone you may know so well doesn't even know who you are, but unfortunately, I can't seek to find out the names of everyone who watches my videos, speaking with them, and getting to know them. It's just beyond my capacity.
Some have asked me why I can't free up some space to add them, since surely I have at least 1 person who isn't on anymore. Again, I probably don't know you. I'm not going to remove someone I do know for someone I don't. Think about how the person I removed would feel if they came back and found out? Or better yet, imagine if you've been my friend for some time, and I remove you in place of someone I didn't know? It's just too unreasonable. So with great dismay, no, I cannot add you. Please do not ask and make me look like a bad guy by turning you down, because it is not done to hurt any feelings.
3) Can you be in one of my videos?
This is one I get a lot, and I know it seems like a reasonable request by those asking. However, I don't just create my videos with just any random people. In fact, my videos typically always focus simply on me and my character, and a good number of clips don't have any other characters in them except myself. Those who I do have with me are typically always friends, those who I have added, and people I know I can explain directions to, knowing they'll be followed. I can't get that kind of trust with strangers, unfortunately.
The only exception to this response is when I may need a large number of people for a clip. I will generally allow anyone within the vicinity or in my clan chat to join, so long as they have what I'm looking for in a clip.
Besides that scenario, I simply cannot create a list of all the people who have asked, and go down the list seeking out their help, without even knowing if they can fulfill my needs for a given clip. So as with the previous question, please simply don't ask.
4) Can I be in one of your videos?
This one I'm a little more lenient on. But just a little. Again, if I don't know you, chances are I won't. I don't like it when people want me in their video, simply so they can have a recognized name in their cast, and get people to view it for that reason alone, and ignore the actual quality of the video.
Typically I do lend a hand for friends if they ask, and friends of friends if need be. I rarely turn down the opportunity to help out a friend in their videos. I like to be a part of their work, and to see my character represented through their editing skills. So if you're my friend, and you want to ask me to be in a clip, PLEASE DO. Also, if your friend is looking for someone to help, but doesn't have anything they need, and you know I have that requirement, don't hesitate to ask. I typically trust that my friends have good taste in friends as well, so therefore the friends of my friends are usually my friends as well.
For those asking to do an interview, this section with their answers, and the existing interviews on YouTube are more than satisfactory. There truly is no need for another. If you are simply curious about something, and want my reply, ask. However, I will not sit down with you to be asked a bunch of questions to give you popularity for having contacts with known names.
5) Can I subscribe to your channel, rate your video, comment on the video or channel, rate a video, critique your work, or feature it?
If you ask me straight up, no. I don't like it when people ask me to do something such as that, because it tells me all they're interested in is the numbers, and it coming from someone whom others may recognize. As with all the other scenarios, I don't like that. If you have good quality work, act in a professional and friendly manner, and are an active part of the community, you WILL get noticed. Then when people notice you, and find out that you reached the point you're at without any assistance or harassing others, they will be more inclined to lend a hand in getting you the recognition you deserve.
For those who may think that such a thing cannot happen, I am living proof to say otherwise.
6) What would I recommend you do to get noticed and respected in the community?
First and most importantly, don't let everything you do be in an effort to get attention and popularity. If you want to be noticed and respected, that's fine, but don't let it mean everything to you, or it will destroy you.
So with that warning said, here's what I suggest...
Quality is always more important than quantity. This applies to more than just your videos. If I find a good video on YouTube, I check out that person's channel. I check for how often they deliver that level of performance. If it's not often, and their video quality is not consistent, I will pass them up. Others will as well. We want to see great videos when they come out. Yet we don't want 20 videos that were hardly given and effort to spam our subscriptions box and make us miss those quality videos. Also, do not think that having a large number of statistics on a video or on your channel means anything at all. Again, quality over quantity. I have seen countless videos with far more views, comments, ratings, and favorites than my own, yet when I glance at the comments left, and the average rating, they prove to be very misleading. Don't let yourself be mislead.
Another piece of advice I have is to act professional yet kind, and respectful yet tough. Although YouTube is just a place for people to get together and enjoy videos, people are going to be more trustworthy that a guy with proper grammar and sentence structure will deliver quality videos than sum1 who speeks lyke this l0l, u no? It has no real affect on the quality of your videos, but it does take away from your credibility. However, this doesn't mean you can't be playful at times. Nobody likes a person who can't smile once in a while. =) Enjoy the company of your friends, and let others see the fun side of you (when it's safe to show it lol).
When interacting with people you don't know, be respectful. Comments can easily be misinterpreted, considering you can't read a person's body language over the internet to see their emotions or a hint of sarcasm in their text. Therefore, when in doubt, give them a chance to redeem themselves. NEVER go on the offensive, and try to be more crude and obnoxious than the other person. It does not help your image, and I have lost respect to many great video makers because of their lack of respect towards others. However, this doesn't mean to let others push you around. Have confidence in yourself and in what you do, and don't hesitate to object to something you disagree with.
Although those things don't really help the quality of your videos, it does make people more inclined to trust you, respect you, and want to support you on the internet. It also helps to define you as a role model towards others, and be someone they can look up to. You may never meet a person from the internet face-to-face, but they can most certainly have a very positive influence in your life and your values.
Lastly, be active! If people don't know who you are, what you're like, if you act like a regular person, or don't know if you respond to any comments, they'll quickly lose interest in you. Try to talk with people over the internet, even those you don't know. Answer questions from time to time. Let someone know when they leave a touching or funny comment that you appreciate. They're little things, but it makes you a part of the community, gets your name out there, makes the experience more enjoyable for you, and it gives you a reason to stick with it.
There are probably a million other things I can suggest, but I believe that's a good starting point. =)
7) When is my next video?
Although it may be an unusual concept to some, I do not plan out every aspect of my videos, schedule when to record them, know how I will edit them, and when it will be uploaded. Go figure.
I work on my videos as I feel the motivation to do so. I never rush them, or simply record something just to get something completed in the video. For that reason, a simple video may take me months, simply because I lack the motivation to make it.
Because of this, I NEVER have a planned upload date for a video, or even a rough time frame of it's completion. My life is far too unpredictable for me to give such estimates. I often give updates via my blogs and occassionally update videos, so if you're interested, WATCH/READ THOSE! DON'T ASK ME!
On a side note, many are concerned about the fact that I haven't created a full RSMV in over a year. Well, if they watched the video with my RSMV Compilations, they would know I've worked on a great number of projects, and have not come close to calling it quits either. So although it's been a long time between RSMVs, I have no intentions of quitting video making any time soon.
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Questions may be added at any given time to reflect upon missed questions, or questions that have risen in their times asked. I will try to give notices of such changes, or mark newer additions in the list.
With that said, if you have any suggestions, questions, or need for clarification, simply ask and I'll provide whatever assistance I can. Thanks.
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
An Argument Against the Opposition
Alongside Jess's recent video regarding the whole competitive edge in video making, there has been somewhat of a movement against the movement; a group saying that those in support of the video are "hypocrites," that they're disingenuous in their arguments. Although the people belonging to this group do contain strong points, I have been finding that they seem to consistently miss several key points, or make assumptions that are not true. I would like to use this blog entry to clear any such issues, and set the record straight.
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First, what is the video trying to say? Many seem to believe that we want everyone to be friends, that there should not be any competition, that constructive criticism is a downright bad thing. If that were the case, then no improvement would occur, and much like my friend Jtlebout mentioned in his video, it'd be a similar concept to communism; good in intentions, bad in reality. I would agree with that argument, were that what the video was saying; but it's not.
We are not trying to end all improvements, or ask everyone to be friends. We don't live in a dreamworld, so don't assume we're that blind to reality. It's rude... What we're asking is that people respect each other, and think twice before opening their mouth (or in this sense, hitting "submit").
We don't want to end all competition. Many are making the accusation that the people in the video hold competitions, or are judges in them. Those who make such assumptions are assuming that we find all competition to be bad, in which case, those people would be hypocrites. However, that's not the case. Yes, they hold competitions. What what kind of competitions do they promote? Ones where the winners feel proud of their work, get recognized, and those who don't win can still get recognized via their participation, and can also learn from those who ranked. No hate, but recognition for those deserving, and a chance to learn without direct criticism towards their video. We don't want to get rid of that competition, because it results in improvement.
What we argue against is competition where people make these sorts of comments: "Lucky's version is better"; "Not as good as your old vid"; "I've seen better, 3/5". None are meant to be insulting, but they give video makers a sense of worthlessness. Why bother making a video if they simply want to say it's not as good as another? If I were in that position (which I oftentimes am), I'd just think to myself, "Then why the hell do I waste my time making these videos? Just watch theirs, and gtfo mine." You can prefer another video while keeping it to yourself.
Then there are some who believe that we want all comments to be 100% positive; not to point out any flaws; that all comments should follow the format of "Absolutely wonderful video, 5/5. I love you." No... You can provide positive feedback on a video, without saying it's the best ever. For example, "Great video. I liked the part where you did [effect]. It came out really nice. I also liked how to made the storyline. Worked out well." That comment isn't saying "OMG BEST VID EVER 100/5", but at the same time, it makes the video creator proud of their work, while at the same time telling them what aspects to continue focusing on. As for the rest, the artist will eventually figure out that the rest wasn't so great, and that they could have changed a few things. There's no need for a person to come in and say "Too much flashing at [time], you messed the lyrics at [time], and you could have done better on the guitar clip." In time, the artist will come to realize that on their own. That comment, while not meant to be insulting, completely shatters the artists confidence, making them feel that those were the only parts that stood out; the flaws.
With all that said though, I want to remind readers that some people may still want that feedback, for someone to point out the flaws. That's FINE. But let them ASK for it. Don't just go in to the comment, assuming that you're helping them. Not everybody is looking to improve; some just make videos for fun, and they might naturally be decent at it. It doesn't mean that they want someone to help them get better. So although you may just be trying to help, in reality, you could be coming across as a complete jerk.
Just something to keep in mind...
Now, another thing I want to touch on is the whole notion that change can't happen. People argue that those who cause the problem won't change; that such a video will not affect them, that the problem will continue; that you cannot make everyone be nice over the internet, especially considering how it works, and the anonymous nature of it. Such an argument is fact, and no realistic person will deny it. However, that does not mean we should simply not try. You can strive for unrealistic goals, knowing it will never come to be perfect. Even the smallest steps made towards it are improvement, and that slight improvement is always better than none. You don't need perfect results to go forth at something.
Instead of hoping for others to change, I find that the whole movement is asking for us to take measures to force that change ourselves. Unfortunately, I find that Jess's video may have not suggested such a thing, for which reason I can understand people's lack of acceptance on the issue. Yet there are things we can do to improve the issue; many are simple things, and some are a little more extreme than others. Here is what I do:
Whenever someone makes a comment on my videos, comparing to another video maker, I delete it. I don't care if it's something like "Pwnagebucket is better than you" or "Lucky is still better than Pwnagebucket". Whether the favor be in favor of me, or someone else, it's still insulting to someone. Therefore, I remove it. I don't ask questions, and only very rarely do I respond to them. I just remove it, and move on. I let them know they're wasting their time saying it, because nobody will hear it. Keep it to yourself, because I'm fine if they have different preferences. However, there's no need to blurt it out unnecessarily.
If I find such comments on another video, I flag them down and spam them, REGARDLESS of whether I agree with it or not. For instance, it may be that "MMG is a better vid maker than Andrew." I may agree with it, but I'll still mark it as spam. Hopefully, the person who owns that video will see the comment and remove it as well, much like I do.
Another thing I have started somewhat recently is removing the comment ratings. Flames are typically thumbed down, and that's fine. It's expected. And comments favorable to the video are usually thumbs up. Again, that's expected. However, in relation to the previous segment, sometimes video makers make comments such as "Luckybucket's was better". Sometimes a fan of Luckybucket may watch the video, see that comment, and thumb it up simply because they are a fan. It's not meant to be insulting, but it is VERY degrading to see a comment like that on your video, and then see a +1 with it... It's not common, I admit to it, but the few times it does happen are enough for me to suggest this.
In addition, I only comment in two scenarious: 1, I'm inclined to respond. 2, the video is absolutely fantastic, or it's calls for correction. With the first, I'll respond if the person wants my honest opinion. If they don't, and my opinion isn't good, I won't comment. People can figure out that 5 comments, while all being supportive, doesn't mean all that much. With the second, I want people to know when I really enjoy their video, so I only comment on those I really enjoy. For those I typically don't like, I don't comment. My lack of a comment will say enough, without hurting their feelings by me explaining why. If they want to know, they can ask; but there's no reason to tell them if they aren't looking for it.
---
I want to touch on some general tendencies for these kinds of situations, as the final part of this blog... It's not meant to be offensive, because I fall guilty of the same actions myself (although I have since worked to correct myself on them). Here it is...
Whenever a kind of change occurs, and it involves a betterment of society, or a community, there are ALWAYS those who will stand against it, saying it's impossible, and that they're simply over-exaggerating. We do this because it seems to be the smarter thing to say, that we're more in touch with reality, and that we can handle the negativeness that the world has to offer. I say we, because again, I have undergone the thought process time and time again... We then find certain aspects, blow them out of proportion, and then use it as a way to demean the entire opposition. For instance, people say that there has ALWAYS been competition, and that this is not a crisis. Things aren't always how we want them; so what. Get over it. Etc. My response is so what...? If things have ALWAYS been bad, then why SHOULDN'T we fix it..? Yes, we can go about it a different way, but saying it's not a problem because it's always been a problem isn't a very strong argument...
So I understand that individuals are against it. We like to find the faults in arguments, because it makes us look better. And I actually encourage the nit-picking over blind approval. However, don't find a fault, and then not look for the answer to it. Don't immediately oppose it, just to say you oppose it. Look to see if they have a point, and if they do, follow it. I admit, it may make you seem as if you're just following the crowd, but if you have reason to follow, then do it. Change won't happen without a good majority of people who actually put forth the effort to make it happen. Instead of believing that there simply won't be enough, give it your effort, and encourage others to give there. If everyone believes nothing will happen, but they all want it to happen... then nothing will happen.
---
I believe I touched on all the parts I wanted to address, but I'm not entirely sure. There's just so many things I want to say, but I tried not to digress. If you have any issues in my argument, or disagreements, PLEASE tell me, so I may discuss it. I don't follow this trend blindly, for which reason I want to discuss it with the opposing views. I don't find any faults, so either I want to explain to those who find them how it's not, or else I want to be aware of them myself. I'll treat you with respect and understanding, so long as you do the same for me.
With that, I'm done.
---
First, what is the video trying to say? Many seem to believe that we want everyone to be friends, that there should not be any competition, that constructive criticism is a downright bad thing. If that were the case, then no improvement would occur, and much like my friend Jtlebout mentioned in his video, it'd be a similar concept to communism; good in intentions, bad in reality. I would agree with that argument, were that what the video was saying; but it's not.
We are not trying to end all improvements, or ask everyone to be friends. We don't live in a dreamworld, so don't assume we're that blind to reality. It's rude... What we're asking is that people respect each other, and think twice before opening their mouth (or in this sense, hitting "submit").
We don't want to end all competition. Many are making the accusation that the people in the video hold competitions, or are judges in them. Those who make such assumptions are assuming that we find all competition to be bad, in which case, those people would be hypocrites. However, that's not the case. Yes, they hold competitions. What what kind of competitions do they promote? Ones where the winners feel proud of their work, get recognized, and those who don't win can still get recognized via their participation, and can also learn from those who ranked. No hate, but recognition for those deserving, and a chance to learn without direct criticism towards their video. We don't want to get rid of that competition, because it results in improvement.
What we argue against is competition where people make these sorts of comments: "Lucky's version is better"; "Not as good as your old vid"; "I've seen better, 3/5". None are meant to be insulting, but they give video makers a sense of worthlessness. Why bother making a video if they simply want to say it's not as good as another? If I were in that position (which I oftentimes am), I'd just think to myself, "Then why the hell do I waste my time making these videos? Just watch theirs, and gtfo mine." You can prefer another video while keeping it to yourself.
Then there are some who believe that we want all comments to be 100% positive; not to point out any flaws; that all comments should follow the format of "Absolutely wonderful video, 5/5. I love you." No... You can provide positive feedback on a video, without saying it's the best ever. For example, "Great video. I liked the part where you did [effect]. It came out really nice. I also liked how to made the storyline. Worked out well." That comment isn't saying "OMG BEST VID EVER 100/5", but at the same time, it makes the video creator proud of their work, while at the same time telling them what aspects to continue focusing on. As for the rest, the artist will eventually figure out that the rest wasn't so great, and that they could have changed a few things. There's no need for a person to come in and say "Too much flashing at [time], you messed the lyrics at [time], and you could have done better on the guitar clip." In time, the artist will come to realize that on their own. That comment, while not meant to be insulting, completely shatters the artists confidence, making them feel that those were the only parts that stood out; the flaws.
With all that said though, I want to remind readers that some people may still want that feedback, for someone to point out the flaws. That's FINE. But let them ASK for it. Don't just go in to the comment, assuming that you're helping them. Not everybody is looking to improve; some just make videos for fun, and they might naturally be decent at it. It doesn't mean that they want someone to help them get better. So although you may just be trying to help, in reality, you could be coming across as a complete jerk.
Just something to keep in mind...
Now, another thing I want to touch on is the whole notion that change can't happen. People argue that those who cause the problem won't change; that such a video will not affect them, that the problem will continue; that you cannot make everyone be nice over the internet, especially considering how it works, and the anonymous nature of it. Such an argument is fact, and no realistic person will deny it. However, that does not mean we should simply not try. You can strive for unrealistic goals, knowing it will never come to be perfect. Even the smallest steps made towards it are improvement, and that slight improvement is always better than none. You don't need perfect results to go forth at something.
Instead of hoping for others to change, I find that the whole movement is asking for us to take measures to force that change ourselves. Unfortunately, I find that Jess's video may have not suggested such a thing, for which reason I can understand people's lack of acceptance on the issue. Yet there are things we can do to improve the issue; many are simple things, and some are a little more extreme than others. Here is what I do:
Whenever someone makes a comment on my videos, comparing to another video maker, I delete it. I don't care if it's something like "Pwnagebucket is better than you" or "Lucky is still better than Pwnagebucket". Whether the favor be in favor of me, or someone else, it's still insulting to someone. Therefore, I remove it. I don't ask questions, and only very rarely do I respond to them. I just remove it, and move on. I let them know they're wasting their time saying it, because nobody will hear it. Keep it to yourself, because I'm fine if they have different preferences. However, there's no need to blurt it out unnecessarily.
If I find such comments on another video, I flag them down and spam them, REGARDLESS of whether I agree with it or not. For instance, it may be that "MMG is a better vid maker than Andrew." I may agree with it, but I'll still mark it as spam. Hopefully, the person who owns that video will see the comment and remove it as well, much like I do.
Another thing I have started somewhat recently is removing the comment ratings. Flames are typically thumbed down, and that's fine. It's expected. And comments favorable to the video are usually thumbs up. Again, that's expected. However, in relation to the previous segment, sometimes video makers make comments such as "Luckybucket's was better". Sometimes a fan of Luckybucket may watch the video, see that comment, and thumb it up simply because they are a fan. It's not meant to be insulting, but it is VERY degrading to see a comment like that on your video, and then see a +1 with it... It's not common, I admit to it, but the few times it does happen are enough for me to suggest this.
In addition, I only comment in two scenarious: 1, I'm inclined to respond. 2, the video is absolutely fantastic, or it's calls for correction. With the first, I'll respond if the person wants my honest opinion. If they don't, and my opinion isn't good, I won't comment. People can figure out that 5 comments, while all being supportive, doesn't mean all that much. With the second, I want people to know when I really enjoy their video, so I only comment on those I really enjoy. For those I typically don't like, I don't comment. My lack of a comment will say enough, without hurting their feelings by me explaining why. If they want to know, they can ask; but there's no reason to tell them if they aren't looking for it.
---
I want to touch on some general tendencies for these kinds of situations, as the final part of this blog... It's not meant to be offensive, because I fall guilty of the same actions myself (although I have since worked to correct myself on them). Here it is...
Whenever a kind of change occurs, and it involves a betterment of society, or a community, there are ALWAYS those who will stand against it, saying it's impossible, and that they're simply over-exaggerating. We do this because it seems to be the smarter thing to say, that we're more in touch with reality, and that we can handle the negativeness that the world has to offer. I say we, because again, I have undergone the thought process time and time again... We then find certain aspects, blow them out of proportion, and then use it as a way to demean the entire opposition. For instance, people say that there has ALWAYS been competition, and that this is not a crisis. Things aren't always how we want them; so what. Get over it. Etc. My response is so what...? If things have ALWAYS been bad, then why SHOULDN'T we fix it..? Yes, we can go about it a different way, but saying it's not a problem because it's always been a problem isn't a very strong argument...
So I understand that individuals are against it. We like to find the faults in arguments, because it makes us look better. And I actually encourage the nit-picking over blind approval. However, don't find a fault, and then not look for the answer to it. Don't immediately oppose it, just to say you oppose it. Look to see if they have a point, and if they do, follow it. I admit, it may make you seem as if you're just following the crowd, but if you have reason to follow, then do it. Change won't happen without a good majority of people who actually put forth the effort to make it happen. Instead of believing that there simply won't be enough, give it your effort, and encourage others to give there. If everyone believes nothing will happen, but they all want it to happen... then nothing will happen.
---
I believe I touched on all the parts I wanted to address, but I'm not entirely sure. There's just so many things I want to say, but I tried not to digress. If you have any issues in my argument, or disagreements, PLEASE tell me, so I may discuss it. I don't follow this trend blindly, for which reason I want to discuss it with the opposing views. I don't find any faults, so either I want to explain to those who find them how it's not, or else I want to be aware of them myself. I'll treat you with respect and understanding, so long as you do the same for me.
With that, I'm done.
Monday, November 9, 2009
Gamefly Widget
For those with a keen eye, there's a new little widget on the left side of the screen, under the archives. It's for Gamefly, and basically it a link for membership, where I earn $20 towards Gamefly for every person that signs up through it. It's not an advertisement or anything like that, and I honestly wouldn't put it there if I didn't have good reason to recommend it. Unfortunately, they didn't let me put much of an explanation in the widget (100 character limit ftl), and they provided like 3 cheesy premade lines. So I'm creating this entry to give a better explanation.
So basically, I've used game rental stores like Blockbuster and Hollywood Video for years, probably since I was like 8 years old. Now I have an Xbox360, a PS2, a Nintendo DS, and a PSP. The costs for rentals are freaking expensive now... a single Xbox rental costs me like $10 for a week. So if I rent 2, that's already $20 for two games, for a week.
I have a membership with gamefly for $22.95 a month, where I can rent out two games at a time. So basically, I have this choice: Rent two games via Blockbuster or Hollywood video for a week, and pay $20; OR rent two games via Gamefly for a month, for the same price. With the rental stores, I also have to worry about late fees, or else it can easily jump up to some $15 for a rental. Ridiculous...
Note that I mentioned I have a Nintendo DS and a PSP. I have yet to find a place where I can rent games for them, and for obvious reason. They can easily be lost. But Gamefly lets you rent games for both handhelds, as well as a GBA. Their selection is somewhat small, but they host the most popular games. I just found out about the PSP rentals, and I'm getting Final Fantasy Dissidia in just a couple days. Normally, the only other way to play it is to buy it, at something like $40... Thanks, but I'd rather at least try it first. Ya? And even then, if I decide I like it and want to keep it, I can just tell Gamefly I want to keep it... for $30... free Shipping and Handling. =s
The site also has reviews, screenshots, and videos for games, so you can get a very good idea on whether or not you'd like the game before you rent it. Having serious reviews is a lot better for renting games than just reading the back of the display box at the store.
On top of all that, you earn bonuses as you go with your subscription. Every 3 months you earn $5 in Gamefly rewards, that you can use to buy a game. Sounds bleh, but I've already earned $20 so far. Stack that with the other discounts, and it's worth it. At 6 months, you get a 5% discount on purchases. Bit low, but at 1 year, you get a 10% discount. So at 1 year, you get a 10% discount, + a $20 gift card basically. Say I wanted to buy Modern Warfare 2, which is $60 at Gamestop right now. I get a 10% discount, so it's $54. Then use the $20 I saved, and it's $34. Hmm... $60, or $34? + I can rent it to find out whether or not I want to keep it.
Basically, if you like renting games, then Gamefly is almost like heaven. I can easily say that I wish I tried it sooner, because I thought there'd be some huge catch, which there isn't. For those who know me, I don't advertise things unless I find it truly beneficial to those I'm advertising it to. I wouldn't do it if it's just a way for me to make money.
Anyways, if you want to try it out, please do so via the link on the left side of the page. I dunno how it works, but having the membership fee pay for itself would be fantastic for me. + I then save others money since they're using the same service I use O_o' It's win-win honestly.
If you have any questions, concerns about the service, or anything whatsoever, just ask and I'll try to answer them as best I can.
EDIT: Turns out that the widget displayed my last name, something I don't want known. So, here's the link if you want to give it a try:
https://www.gamefly.com/regoffer/start/?partnertransid=342513FF-1780-BFD1-1E38-49F88A4B3B65&partnerid=4&
So basically, I've used game rental stores like Blockbuster and Hollywood Video for years, probably since I was like 8 years old. Now I have an Xbox360, a PS2, a Nintendo DS, and a PSP. The costs for rentals are freaking expensive now... a single Xbox rental costs me like $10 for a week. So if I rent 2, that's already $20 for two games, for a week.
I have a membership with gamefly for $22.95 a month, where I can rent out two games at a time. So basically, I have this choice: Rent two games via Blockbuster or Hollywood video for a week, and pay $20; OR rent two games via Gamefly for a month, for the same price. With the rental stores, I also have to worry about late fees, or else it can easily jump up to some $15 for a rental. Ridiculous...
Note that I mentioned I have a Nintendo DS and a PSP. I have yet to find a place where I can rent games for them, and for obvious reason. They can easily be lost. But Gamefly lets you rent games for both handhelds, as well as a GBA. Their selection is somewhat small, but they host the most popular games. I just found out about the PSP rentals, and I'm getting Final Fantasy Dissidia in just a couple days. Normally, the only other way to play it is to buy it, at something like $40... Thanks, but I'd rather at least try it first. Ya? And even then, if I decide I like it and want to keep it, I can just tell Gamefly I want to keep it... for $30... free Shipping and Handling. =s
The site also has reviews, screenshots, and videos for games, so you can get a very good idea on whether or not you'd like the game before you rent it. Having serious reviews is a lot better for renting games than just reading the back of the display box at the store.
On top of all that, you earn bonuses as you go with your subscription. Every 3 months you earn $5 in Gamefly rewards, that you can use to buy a game. Sounds bleh, but I've already earned $20 so far. Stack that with the other discounts, and it's worth it. At 6 months, you get a 5% discount on purchases. Bit low, but at 1 year, you get a 10% discount. So at 1 year, you get a 10% discount, + a $20 gift card basically. Say I wanted to buy Modern Warfare 2, which is $60 at Gamestop right now. I get a 10% discount, so it's $54. Then use the $20 I saved, and it's $34. Hmm... $60, or $34? + I can rent it to find out whether or not I want to keep it.
Basically, if you like renting games, then Gamefly is almost like heaven. I can easily say that I wish I tried it sooner, because I thought there'd be some huge catch, which there isn't. For those who know me, I don't advertise things unless I find it truly beneficial to those I'm advertising it to. I wouldn't do it if it's just a way for me to make money.
Anyways, if you want to try it out, please do so via the link on the left side of the page. I dunno how it works, but having the membership fee pay for itself would be fantastic for me. + I then save others money since they're using the same service I use O_o' It's win-win honestly.
If you have any questions, concerns about the service, or anything whatsoever, just ask and I'll try to answer them as best I can.
EDIT: Turns out that the widget displayed my last name, something I don't want known. So, here's the link if you want to give it a try:
https://www.gamefly.com/regoffer/start/?partnertransid=342513FF-1780-BFD1-1E38-49F88A4B3B65&partnerid=4&
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Luckybucket as of November 8, 2009
Finally achieved 85 Mining. Took me about a week from 82, which was just under 900k experience. So I actually managed close to 200k experience a day. Not bad, in my opinion.
I powermined granite the whole time, using a Dragon Pickaxe. The Dragon is actually a nice boost from Rune. It's probably not too much, but something is better than nothing. And what was REALLY nice about it, was that since I was powermining, the ores didn't earn my any profit. However, since I was using the Dragon Pickaxe, the price changed during my time using it... by 1.8mil. =D So I basically earned 1.8mil by powermining granite for 5 days. ^_^ Ftw much?
I decided to exchange my 1.1k granite lobster pouches for shards, and then use up whatever Gold and Green charms I had left with a Kyatt. I needed 733 bananas to make Fruit Bat pouches with my Greens, but none were selling on the GE, even at max price. Stores only have like 10, since the update to them, and I didn't want to tele to Karamja over and over, collecting them myself. So I bought 800 bones via the GE and used the Bones to Bananas spell. Costed a little more, but saved me a ton of time.
I managed to use up all of my Gold Charms (1.8k of them) with Barker Toads, and got 81 Summoning from it. Now my 80 Construction is my lowest skill. =D I also knocked out 200 Green Charms before the Kyatt dissapeared. I'm not sure how good that is in comparison to others, but it seemed fast to me. I manage to craft 2k Pure Ess with a Graahk when I'm focused, and that's 54 essence per trip. With summoning, I only had 24 of the secondaries per trip. I'll keep track of the charms used next time too, so I can compare.
Anyways, 1 goal down, few more to go. 85 Agility is next, and I'm already 83. Shouldn't take more than a few days. Just wish it was a little more exciting. =| At least it'll be a bit faster once I hit 85.
Anyways, that's all there is to tell for now. Ciao.
I powermined granite the whole time, using a Dragon Pickaxe. The Dragon is actually a nice boost from Rune. It's probably not too much, but something is better than nothing. And what was REALLY nice about it, was that since I was powermining, the ores didn't earn my any profit. However, since I was using the Dragon Pickaxe, the price changed during my time using it... by 1.8mil. =D So I basically earned 1.8mil by powermining granite for 5 days. ^_^ Ftw much?
I decided to exchange my 1.1k granite lobster pouches for shards, and then use up whatever Gold and Green charms I had left with a Kyatt. I needed 733 bananas to make Fruit Bat pouches with my Greens, but none were selling on the GE, even at max price. Stores only have like 10, since the update to them, and I didn't want to tele to Karamja over and over, collecting them myself. So I bought 800 bones via the GE and used the Bones to Bananas spell. Costed a little more, but saved me a ton of time.
I managed to use up all of my Gold Charms (1.8k of them) with Barker Toads, and got 81 Summoning from it. Now my 80 Construction is my lowest skill. =D I also knocked out 200 Green Charms before the Kyatt dissapeared. I'm not sure how good that is in comparison to others, but it seemed fast to me. I manage to craft 2k Pure Ess with a Graahk when I'm focused, and that's 54 essence per trip. With summoning, I only had 24 of the secondaries per trip. I'll keep track of the charms used next time too, so I can compare.
Anyways, 1 goal down, few more to go. 85 Agility is next, and I'm already 83. Shouldn't take more than a few days. Just wish it was a little more exciting. =| At least it'll be a bit faster once I hit 85.
Anyways, that's all there is to tell for now. Ciao.
Thursday, November 5, 2009
99 Magic Analysis
I created an Analysis on what the cost for 99 Magic would be by means of alching and plank make. Here is the result:
http://spreadsheets.google.com/pub?key=td9hsr6OdK5pdK_S10uwYkg&single=true&gid=1&output=html
An important concept to keep in mind is the time it takes to accomplish one certain method. For instance, in the Analysis, it takes me 114 hours to achieve 99 by alching. However, by Plank Make, it only takes 37 hours. Although alching would cost less to achieve 99 by, the time saved by Plank Make can then be used to earn my money back. With the time it takes to get 99 by alching, I have two choices: Alch, and lose 18mil, or Plank Make to 99, and Runecraft the remaining time, EARNING 39mil.
The decision on which method is quite easy to determine via that analysis.
http://spreadsheets.google.com/pub?key=td9hsr6OdK5pdK_S10uwYkg&single=true&gid=1&output=html
An important concept to keep in mind is the time it takes to accomplish one certain method. For instance, in the Analysis, it takes me 114 hours to achieve 99 by alching. However, by Plank Make, it only takes 37 hours. Although alching would cost less to achieve 99 by, the time saved by Plank Make can then be used to earn my money back. With the time it takes to get 99 by alching, I have two choices: Alch, and lose 18mil, or Plank Make to 99, and Runecraft the remaining time, EARNING 39mil.
The decision on which method is quite easy to determine via that analysis.
Farming Analysis
I created a Farming Analysis on a spreadsheet for Farming, both for self-reference, and to assist Swordking090 in his 99 Farming goal.
Here it is:
http://spreadsheets.google.com/pub?key=ta9IipAE_T0xnGzhv-1nC7Q&output=html
---
I plan on releasing these analysis's somewhat often, as I create them for self reference at a rather frequent rate. The general content will be similar to what is provided in this Farming Analysis, and reflect a cost/exp relation. Depending on the skill, items, or methods, I may also offer a time/exp ratio, and/or a time/cost ratio (for skills such as Runecrafting or Mining). I'll try to keep them as clear and straightforward as possible, and explain how I arrived at my results.
If you have any recommendations or suggestions on an Analysis you'd like to see complete, feel free to leave a comment for it.
Thanks, and enjoy.
Here it is:
http://spreadsheets.google.com/pub?key=ta9IipAE_T0xnGzhv-1nC7Q&output=html
---
I plan on releasing these analysis's somewhat often, as I create them for self reference at a rather frequent rate. The general content will be similar to what is provided in this Farming Analysis, and reflect a cost/exp relation. Depending on the skill, items, or methods, I may also offer a time/exp ratio, and/or a time/cost ratio (for skills such as Runecrafting or Mining). I'll try to keep them as clear and straightforward as possible, and explain how I arrived at my results.
If you have any recommendations or suggestions on an Analysis you'd like to see complete, feel free to leave a comment for it.
Thanks, and enjoy.
Monday, November 2, 2009
Luckybucket as of November 1, 2009
I think I'm going to do little skill update blogs in this format. =o I used to do my bank videos as "Luckybucket as of..." videos, and I grew addicted to it; so I like the idea of reusing it now, in these blogs. ^_^
Anyways, today I went to task with my new plan of action, which for those who didn't read my blog on YouTube, is to tackle quick levels for the time being, and raise my total level.
I got on today with about 60k experience to level Mining. I went to the Desert Quarry and mined granite. Got it in a little over an hour.
I then played around with my new graphics card for a bit, a 9800 GT (IT OWNS), by playing Fallout 3 and Call of Duty 4. This card will be a HUGE help in recording full screen shots in good quality. Definitely worth the $180 I paid for it.
After messing around with my new card, I got back on RS, recalculated the cost of using all my Crimson and Blue charms that I got from 96-99 Strength, and found it to come out to about 5m. I sold my Bandos Chestplate, since I won't be doing Combat for a while, and went ahead and used up all my Crims and Blues. I used Crimson Charms on Granite Lobsters, which are around 13.6gp/exp; definitely not bad for Crimson Charms. I used my Blues on Adamantite Minotaurs, which are about 10gp/exp. Miths were a little lower in gp/exp, but I'd rather get the exp than worry about the slight cost difference.
The one thing that I truly enjoy about Summoning is its speed. Even though it cost me 5m to use the charms, I got levels 78, 79, and 80 within 23 minutes. In the process, I also got 131 combat. That also means that all my skills are now 80 and above, a goal long overdue.
I bought a Dragon Pickaxe the other night, more for fun than for serious use. However, now that I have it, I'm thinking I may as well hit 85 Mining with it. It's around 250-300k per level at this point, which is 6-7 hours per, but in comparison to my other skills, its not so bad. Plus, it's a very respectable skill to have a high level in.
Once that's done, I'll probably RC for a while, get some cash, and maybe make the push for 99 Hitpoints via Chins.
I also calculated out the price of 99 Magic, and it came out to be around 28m, so I might consider going for that soon enough. However, I'm also considering 99 Woodcutting, since the sawmill now makes it an 80k exp/hr skill
But for now, my plan goes as follows:
85 Mining
85 Agility
92 Runecrafting (via Dbl Nats)
99 Hitpoints (via Chins)
95 Ranged (gotten through 99 Hits on chins)
Anyways, today I went to task with my new plan of action, which for those who didn't read my blog on YouTube, is to tackle quick levels for the time being, and raise my total level.
I got on today with about 60k experience to level Mining. I went to the Desert Quarry and mined granite. Got it in a little over an hour.
I then played around with my new graphics card for a bit, a 9800 GT (IT OWNS), by playing Fallout 3 and Call of Duty 4. This card will be a HUGE help in recording full screen shots in good quality. Definitely worth the $180 I paid for it.
After messing around with my new card, I got back on RS, recalculated the cost of using all my Crimson and Blue charms that I got from 96-99 Strength, and found it to come out to about 5m. I sold my Bandos Chestplate, since I won't be doing Combat for a while, and went ahead and used up all my Crims and Blues. I used Crimson Charms on Granite Lobsters, which are around 13.6gp/exp; definitely not bad for Crimson Charms. I used my Blues on Adamantite Minotaurs, which are about 10gp/exp. Miths were a little lower in gp/exp, but I'd rather get the exp than worry about the slight cost difference.
The one thing that I truly enjoy about Summoning is its speed. Even though it cost me 5m to use the charms, I got levels 78, 79, and 80 within 23 minutes. In the process, I also got 131 combat. That also means that all my skills are now 80 and above, a goal long overdue.
I bought a Dragon Pickaxe the other night, more for fun than for serious use. However, now that I have it, I'm thinking I may as well hit 85 Mining with it. It's around 250-300k per level at this point, which is 6-7 hours per, but in comparison to my other skills, its not so bad. Plus, it's a very respectable skill to have a high level in.
Once that's done, I'll probably RC for a while, get some cash, and maybe make the push for 99 Hitpoints via Chins.
I also calculated out the price of 99 Magic, and it came out to be around 28m, so I might consider going for that soon enough. However, I'm also considering 99 Woodcutting, since the sawmill now makes it an 80k exp/hr skill
But for now, my plan goes as follows:
85 Mining
85 Agility
92 Runecrafting (via Dbl Nats)
99 Hitpoints (via Chins)
95 Ranged (gotten through 99 Hits on chins)
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