Featured, Travel

Oregon Retro Road Trip – Behind the Scenes + Audio Commentary

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Drunken Master Paul, my wife Rebecca and I recorded a Behind the Scenes Audio Commentary from the Oregon Trip along w/ a “Director’s Cut” of the entire road trip. I’ve added scenes, lengthened others and I think you guys will like hearing the extra stories not originally included.

Oregon is a captivating state that offers a diverse range of attractions, making it a fantastic destination for travelers. Nature enthusiasts are drawn to its breathtaking landscapes, from the rugged coastline of the Pacific Ocean to the lush forests and towering mountains of the Cascade Range. The iconic Crater Lake, a stunningly deep and clear caldera, stands as a testament to the state’s natural wonders. Visitors can also explore the Columbia River Gorge, known for its dramatic waterfalls, and the high desert terrain of central Oregon, which provides a unique contrast to the state’s more verdant regions. Beyond its natural beauty, Oregon boasts a vibrant cultural scene. The city of Portland is renowned for its eclectic arts community, quirky neighborhoods, and an emphasis on sustainability, as evidenced by its numerous eco-friendly initiatives and farm-to-table dining experiences. With its combination of captivating landscapes and vibrant culture, Oregon offers an enriching and memorable experience for every type of traveler.

For those seeking outdoor adventures, Oregon’s diverse geography provides an array of recreational activities. The state is a paradise for hikers, cyclists, and outdoor enthusiasts, offering an extensive network of trails and paths that wind through forests, alongside rivers, and up mountain slopes. The Oregon Coast, with its charming seaside towns, offers opportunities for beachcombing, tidepooling, and even whale watching. Wine aficionados can explore the Willamette Valley, a renowned wine region that produces exquisite Pinot Noir and other varietals. Furthermore, Oregon’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty is evident in its many national and state parks, where camping, fishing, and wildlife observation opportunities abound. From its captivating landscapes to its welcoming communities, Oregon beckons travelers to immerse themselves in its abundant beauty and diverse experiences.

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Star Wars: Dark Forces Remastered – Official Announcement Trailer

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Get your first look at the remaster of the classic 1995 Star Wars first-person shooter Dark Forces, which is being developed by Nightdive Studios, the same team responsible for the recent remasters of Quake 2 and System Shock. Star Wars: Dark Forces Remastered is in development for all major platforms (PC, Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch).

“Star Wars: Dark Forces” is a classic first-person shooter video game released in 1995, and it holds a special place in the hearts of many gamers and Star Wars fans. The game’s appeal can be attributed to several key factors:

1. **Immersive Star Wars Universe:** The game is set in the beloved Star Wars universe, allowing players to experience its iconic characters, locations, and technology in a new interactive way. This immersion taps into the nostalgia and excitement that fans have for the franchise.

2. **Engaging Storyline:** “Dark Forces” introduced a compelling original storyline that expanded on the Star Wars narrative. Players assume the role of Kyle Katarn, a former Imperial soldier turned Rebel agent, as he battles against the sinister plans of the Galactic Empire, including the development of the feared Dark Trooper project.

3. **Gameplay Innovation:** At the time of its release, “Dark Forces” was innovative in its blending of first-person shooting action with puzzle-solving elements. Players had to navigate complex levels, find key items, and solve environmental puzzles, offering a diverse gameplay experience beyond just shooting enemies.

4. **Varied Environments:** The game featured a wide range of environments, from Imperial bases to starships, desert planets to space stations. This diversity kept gameplay fresh and provided a sense of exploration and adventure.

5. **Iconic Weapons:** The game introduced a variety of weapons, including the Bryar Pistol and the classic E-11 Blaster, as well as more powerful weapons like the Thermal Detonator and the iconic Lightsaber, which was available in later levels. These weapons added to the player’s sense of empowerment and choice in how to approach challenges.

6. **Technical Achievement:** “Dark Forces” was a pioneer in the realm of 3D graphics and sound design for its time. It showcased advanced graphics technology and atmospheric audio that enhanced the overall immersive experience.

7. **Modding and Community:** The game’s active modding community allowed players to create and share custom levels, modifications, and total conversions. This extended the game’s longevity and creativity, enabling players to continue enjoying new content long after completing the base game.

8. **Legacy and Influence:** “Dark Forces” laid the foundation for subsequent Star Wars video games, especially in the first-person shooter genre. It influenced titles like the “Jedi Knight” series, which expanded on the adventures of Kyle Katarn and introduced lightsaber combat and Force powers.

In summary, the appeal of “Star Wars: Dark Forces” lies in its ability to transport players into the Star Wars universe while offering engaging gameplay, a compelling storyline, and technical achievements that were impressive for its time. The game’s legacy continues to resonate with fans and stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of the Star Wars franchise in the realm of interactive entertainment.

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Armored Core 6: Fires of Rubicon Review

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Armored Core 6: Fires of Rubicon’s stellar customization options feed into its excellent mecha combat, and the result is challenging combat puzzles that kept my attention all the way through its 15-hour campaign and beyond. It’s let down by a dull story, but lands direct hits where it counts. Armored Core 6: Fires of Rubicon review by Mitchell Saltzman on PlayStation 5. Also available on PlayStation 4, Xbox, and PC.

The Armored Core series of games holds a unique appeal for a variety of reasons, making it a beloved franchise among gamers, especially those who enjoy mecha combat and customization-driven gameplay. Here are some of the key factors that contribute to the series’ appeal:

  1. Mech Customization: One of the standout features of the Armored Core series is the deep and intricate mech customization system. Players have the freedom to build and modify their mechs (known as Armored Cores) with an extensive range of parts, weapons, and equipment. This level of customization allows players to create truly unique machines tailored to their preferred playstyle, strategy, and aesthetic preferences.
  2. Tactical Gameplay: Armored Core games often emphasize strategic gameplay and tactical decision-making. The battles are not just about raw firepower; players need to consider factors like terrain, positioning, weapon loadouts, and defensive capabilities. This adds a layer of depth and complexity to the combat, appealing to gamers who enjoy thought-provoking challenges.
  3. Challenging Difficulty: The series is known for its challenging difficulty, which attracts players who seek a rewarding and engaging experience. Mastering the intricacies of combat mechanics, optimizing loadouts, and learning to adapt to various opponents provides a sense of accomplishment as players progress through the game.
  4. Engaging Storytelling: While the focus is primarily on mech combat and customization, the Armored Core series often incorporates intriguing and immersive narratives. The games explore futuristic dystopian worlds, corporate intrigue, and the ethical dilemmas surrounding the use of powerful mechs. This adds a layer of depth to the experience and keeps players invested in the game world.
  5. Online Multiplayer: Several installments of the series feature online multiplayer modes, allowing players to pit their custom-built mechs against others in intense battles. The competitive aspect enhances replayability and provides an opportunity for players to showcase their unique creations and combat strategies.
  6. Aesthetic Design: The design of the mechs, environments, and overall visual style of the Armored Core series has a strong appeal to fans of futuristic and sci-fi aesthetics. The attention to detail in mech design and the portrayal of futuristic landscapes contribute to the overall immersive experience.
  7. Evolution of Technology: The series spans multiple generations of gaming platforms, showcasing the evolution of technology and graphics capabilities. This evolution allows players to see how the franchise has grown over time while experiencing advancements in gameplay mechanics and visual fidelity.
  8. Niche Appeal: The Armored Core series caters to a specific niche within the gaming community – fans of mecha and sci-fi combat. This focused approach helps the games resonate deeply with players who are passionate about the genre.

In summary, the appeal of the Armored Core series lies in its intricate mech customization, tactical gameplay, challenging difficulty, engaging storytelling, online multiplayer options, aesthetic design, and its ability to cater to a dedicated niche audience of mech and sci-fi enthusiasts. These elements come together to create a gaming experience that is both unique and rewarding for those who enjoy the intricacies of mecha combat and customization.

Special Episodes

Hanging Out With Metal Jesus Rocks! Car Show/Game Pickups

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Hey everyone, Hungout with Jason this past weekend and went to a car show as well as did a little bit of game hunting. I saw some interesting things but also wanted to show some games Playasia sent me and Jason. We surprisingly had an overcast this weekend so the car show wasn’t as outstanding as it could have been, but i was still a great time. Radical Reggie

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Ultimate Coleco/Atari 2600 Tier List – ALL RELEASED GAMES RANKED

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In this video, we’ll be diving headfirst into a selection of captivating classics brought to us by Coleco and rank all thirteen titles on a tier.

Coleco, a prominent toy and video game company of the 1980s, made a significant impact on the gaming industry with its line of Atari games. Recognized for its innovative products and dedication to gaming, Coleco developed a series of popular titles for the iconic Atari 2600 console. One of their standout releases was “Donkey Kong,” a highly successful arcade adaptation that showcased the console’s capabilities and became a best-seller. Additionally, Coleco’s “Venture” introduced players to a captivating dungeon-crawling adventure, garnering praise for its engaging gameplay. The company’s commitment to quality gaming experiences extended to other platforms as well, with ColecoVision, their home video game console, gaining a devoted following for its impressive graphics and library of exciting titles. Despite challenges in the gaming market during the video game crash of the mid-1980s, Coleco’s contributions to Atari games left an indelible mark on gaming history and cemented its position as a respected player in the industry.

Featured, Recent Pickups

“LET’S GO!” GAME PICKUPS: 40 Games! (PS5, PS4, Switch, Xbox, PS2, PS1, PC & More!)

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Almost an HOUR of GAME PICKUPS w/ Reggie!! Including a special edition game console I’ve been trying to find for YEARS!
GAMES SHOWN:
Cannon Dancer Osman
Tales of Destiny Special Edition PS2
Batsugun Saturn Tribute Boosted
Akai Katana Shin
Supercade (Book)
Wanted: Dead
Smashing the Battle: Ghost Soul
The Letter
Wife Quest
Phantasmagoria
Star Wars Jedi Survivor
Resident Evil
Shadowrun Trilogy
Gal Guardians: Demon Purge
Retro Inside PC stickers : https://geekenspiel.com
Drainus
Hogwarts Legacy
Bullet Soul
Mr. Run & Jump
Kudzu
Xeno Crisis
Jamestown+
GrimGrimoire OnceMore
Disney Illusion Island
Snow Bros. Special
Toaplan Arcade 2 ( Evercade )
Team 17 Collection 1
Piko Collection 3
The C64 Collection 2
UnMetal
Scourge Bringer
Brotherhood United
American Hero
The Valis Collection – Complete Set
The Non-Playable Characters: Post Earth Episode 1 Autosaving
Nail’d
Resident Evil 0 ( PS1 )
Resident Evil 1.5 ( PS1 )
Wavetale
Trinity Trigger
Islets
The Last Blade 2
साइबरपंक 2077 एक्सबॉक्स वन एक्स
Nefasto’s Misadventure: Meeting Noeroze

Travel

VOX: What I learned from taking a train across the US

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Here’s how US train travel went from excellent to mediocre.

Several factors contribute to the decline in train usage among US citizens compared to the past. One of the main reasons is the significant expansion of the highway system and the widespread availability of affordable cars. As personal vehicles became more accessible, convenient, and faster, people gradually shifted away from train travel, opting for the flexibility and independence that driving offers. Additionally, the rise of low-cost domestic flights further diminished the appeal of train travel for long-distance trips, as air travel became a more time-efficient option. Moreover, the United States has historically invested less in its passenger rail infrastructure compared to countries with robust train systems, leading to issues with outdated tracks, slower speeds, and limited coverage in certain regions. These shortcomings have resulted in a perception of trains as a less efficient and less viable mode of transportation for many Americans. However, there is a growing interest in sustainable and eco-friendly travel options, which may present an opportunity for a revival of train travel if investments are made in modernizing and expanding the rail network.

Music

Mary Spender: Why My Album Won’t Be On Spotify

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Artists often voice concerns about Spotify’s payment structure, feeling that the platform does not adequately compensate them for their music. One of the main reasons for this sentiment is the low royalty rates that artists receive per stream. While Spotify pays a fraction of a cent for each play, this amount can be meager, especially for independent or lesser-known artists with smaller fan bases. Additionally, the massive volume of music available on the platform creates fierce competition, making it challenging for artists to stand out and accumulate significant streams. Critics argue that this model disproportionately benefits major labels and popular artists, widening the income gap within the music industry. Furthermore, the lack of transparency regarding how the streaming revenue is distributed adds to artists’ frustration, leaving them questioning the fairness of the system. Despite Spotify’s enormous user base and revenue, some artists believe that the platform should do more to ensure a more equitable distribution of payments, providing emerging talents with a viable income source and fostering a sustainable ecosystem for musicians of all levels.

Correction: I misspoke at the 3.45 mark – $0.003 isn’t .003 cents, but .003 dollars, or .3 of a cent. Likewise, $0.12 was meant to be 12 cents, not 0.12. Apologies – I’m a musician, not a mathematician.

Retro Gaming with a Heavy Metal Soundtrack