Golden Sun Review – Does It Hold Up on Switch?

The Golden Sun series is a beloved franchise of role-playing games (RPGs) that was developed by Camelot Software Planning and published by Nintendo. The series debuted with “Golden Sun” for the Game Boy Advance in 2001, followed by its sequel “Golden Sun: The Lost Age” in 2002. The games are known for their engaging narrative, intricate puzzle-solving elements, and a unique combat system centered around the manipulation of elemental forces called Psynergy. Set in the fantasy world of Weyard, players embark on an epic quest as Adepts, individuals with the ability to wield Psynergy, to prevent the resurrection of an ancient destructive force known as Alchemy. The narrative unfolds across generations, intertwining the stories of various characters as they explore diverse landscapes, solve puzzles, and engage in turn-based battles against formidable foes.

What sets the Golden Sun series apart is its innovative use of Psynergy, a form of elemental magic that characters can utilize both in and out of battles. The games incorporate a Djinn system, where creatures known as Djinn can be collected, assigned to characters, and unleashed strategically during combat to summon powerful entities or alter character classes. This dynamic gameplay mechanic adds depth and strategy to battles, encouraging players to experiment with different combinations of Djinn for optimal synergy. The series is fondly remembered for its engaging plot, well-developed characters, and the synergy of its gameplay systems, creating a memorable and immersive RPG experience for fans of the genre.

The most modified VW Mk8 GTI in North America

The Volkswagen GTI has sent many a VW nerd down the tuning rabbit hole. But for a tuning shop, every new model generation means a bunch of new products to bolt on, try out, and beta test. TG Tuning Correspondent Rob Dahm goes to Texas to check out BMP Tuning’s Pomelo-yellow GTI, the most heavily modified Mk8 GTI in North America – apparently – all in the name of finding the best bolt-ons available.

The appeal of the Volkswagen GTI lies in its exceptional combination of sporty performance, practicality, and overall driving enjoyment. As a hot hatchback, the GTI has earned a reputation for delivering a thrilling driving experience while still offering the versatility of a practical everyday car. The GTI’s turbocharged engine provides a responsive and engaging performance, making it a joy to drive on both city streets and winding roads. Its precise handling, well-tuned suspension, and agile nature contribute to a sporty feel without sacrificing comfort, making it an ideal choice for those who seek a dynamic driving experience without compromising daily usability.

Additionally, the Volkswagen GTI’s iconic design and heritage add to its appeal. The GTI is often recognized for its timeless and distinctive styling, featuring signature elements like the red accent line on the front grille and the plaid-patterned seats. This combination of aesthetic appeal and performance prowess creates a well-rounded package that appeals to a broad range of enthusiasts. Whether it’s the punchy acceleration, nimble handling, or the practicality of a hatchback design, the Volkswagen GTI has managed to capture the hearts of drivers who appreciate a spirited ride without sacrificing the convenience and versatility of a compact car.

We got SCAMMED on my dream truck (massively misrepresented by seller)

Hoovies Garage is a popular YouTube channel hosted by Tyler Hoover, known for its entertaining and often humorous content focused on the world of automotive adventures. Tyler, commonly referred to as “Hoovie,” showcases his experiences with a variety of cars, ranging from luxury vehicles to unique and quirky finds. The channel gained widespread popularity for its transparency in documenting the trials and tribulations of car ownership, with Tyler sharing stories of both triumphs and challenges. Hoovies Garage is celebrated for its relatable and down-to-earth approach to the automotive world, resonating with car enthusiasts and casual viewers alike.

One distinctive aspect of Hoovies Garage is its emphasis on the stories behind each car rather than just technical details. Tyler engages his audience by sharing personal anecdotes, detailing the highs and lows of his automotive escapades. Whether it’s buying budget supercars, attempting ambitious repairs, or navigating the intricacies of unique vehicle ownership, the channel offers a blend of entertainment and insight into the diverse and unpredictable world of cars. Hoovies Garage has built a dedicated fanbase drawn to Tyler’s charismatic on-screen presence and the channel’s unique take on the automotive lifestyle, making it a staple in the online car community.

Restoring Sony’s first VAIO laptop! (1998)

Sony’s PCG-505 looks like a pretty typical late-90s laptop at first glance. But it actually had a big impact on the computer industry — you probably just didn’t realize it.

The Sony Vaio line of laptops, introduced by Sony Corporation in 1996, gained prominence for its sleek design, advanced technology, and premium build quality. Vaio, an acronym for “Video Audio Integrated Operation,” initially focused on multimedia capabilities, setting itself apart in the market. Over the years, Sony Vaio laptops became synonymous with cutting-edge innovation and a blend of form and function. The laptops featured vibrant displays, powerful processors, and high-quality audio, catering to users who sought a seamless multimedia experience. Sony Vaio laptops were particularly known for their distinctive design elements, such as the slim profile, metallic finishes, and backlit keyboards, contributing to their premium appeal.

Despite their initial success, Sony eventually sold its Vaio PC business in 2014 to a Japanese investment firm. The Vaio brand, however, continued to thrive under new ownership. The laptops retained their commitment to high-end performance and style, adapting to changing technological trends. The Sony Vaio line left a lasting legacy in the laptop industry, symbolizing a convergence of style and functionality, and paving the way for the premium laptop market to evolve.

*New* BOOMER SHOOTERS: 8 Games You Must Play!

Boomer Shooters are very popular these days and I share eight games that you must play now!
GAMES SHOWN:
Beyond Sunset
Chop Goblins
Wizordum
Rise of the Triad: Ludicrous Edition
Deadlink
Impaler
Turok 3: Shadow of Oblivion Remastered
Forgive me father 2

A “Boomer Shooter” is a subgenre of first-person shooter (FPS) video games that draws inspiration from classic shooters of the 1990s, particularly those from the era of PC gaming dominated by titles like Doom, Quake, and Duke Nukem 3D. The term “Boomer” in this context doesn’t refer to the generational demographic but rather pays homage to the gameplay style and design philosophy reminiscent of the shooters that were popular during the formative years of the genre. These games aim to capture the fast-paced, adrenaline-fueled action, and straightforward mechanics that characterized the early days of FPS gaming.

Typically, Boomer Shooters feature intense, non-stop combat, large and intricate level designs, and a focus on skill-based gameplay. They often eschew modern gaming conventions like regenerating health and cover-based mechanics, opting instead for health pickups, expansive weapon arsenals, and challenging enemy encounters. The graphics and visuals may deliberately adopt a retro aesthetic, utilizing pixel art or low-polygon models to evoke a nostalgic feel while still incorporating modern design elements. Boomer Shooters cater to players who appreciate the purity of the classic FPS experience, emphasizing speed, precision, and a sense of immersion in dynamic, action-packed environments reminiscent of gaming’s golden age.

Ford GT Generations DRAG RACE

Who’s ready for a Ford GT generation drag race! We’ve got our hands on an original Ford GT 40 from 1967, a second-generation GT from 2006, and a third-generation from 2017! So let’s see how the three compare.

The Ford GT is an iconic supercar that has undergone three distinctive generations, each with its own characteristics and advancements.

First Generation (Ford GT40 – 1960s):

  • Era and Racing Heritage: The first-generation Ford GT, specifically the GT40, was born in the 1960s to compete in endurance racing. It gained legendary status by dominating the 24 Hours of Le Mans, winning four consecutive times from 1966 to 1969.
  • Design and Performance: Known for its low-slung, aerodynamic design and powerful V8 engine, the GT40 was an engineering marvel of its time. It boasted impressive speed and performance, becoming an icon in the history of motorsports.

Second Generation (Ford GT – 2005-2006):

  • Revival and Modernization: Ford revived the GT in the mid-2000s as a tribute to its racing heritage. The second-generation GT retained the iconic design cues of the GT40 while incorporating modern technology and materials.
  • Performance and Innovation: Powered by a mid-mounted supercharged V8 engine, the second-gen GT delivered exhilarating performance, impressive handling, and cutting-edge features. Its aluminum chassis and carbon-fiber body contributed to its lightweight and agile nature.

Third Generation (Ford GT – 2017-2019):

  • Innovative Design and Technology: The third-generation GT is a testament to Ford’s commitment to innovation. With a futuristic, aerodynamically efficient design, it employed lightweight materials like carbon fiber extensively.
  • Twin-Turbo V6 Engine and Performance: Unlike its predecessors, the third-gen GT adopted a twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 engine, delivering exceptional power and efficiency. Advanced aerodynamics, active suspension, and a sophisticated onboard computer system made it a marvel of engineering and performance.

Each generation of the Ford GT represents a milestone in automotive history, showcasing technological advancements, racing prowess, and design evolution while paying homage to the legacy of the original GT40.

Xbox 360 Faceplates: A Brilliant Idea That Died too Soon!

The original Xbox 360 allowed gamers to customize their console with faceplates. Ultimately 900+ were commercially released and I have acquired many unique faceplates, some of them quite rare and unusual. Did YOU rock any Xbox 360 Faceplates?

The Xbox 360, released by Microsoft in 2005, marked a significant milestone in the gaming industry. It was the successor to the original Xbox and played a crucial role in popularizing high-definition gaming. The console featured a sleek design with a white exterior and a distinctive concave shape. One of its standout features was its robust online gaming platform, Xbox Live, which allowed players to connect, compete, and communicate with others around the world. The Xbox 360 introduced a wireless controller, enhancing the gaming experience by providing more freedom of movement.

In terms of hardware, the Xbox 360 boasted a custom triple-core processor, high-capacity hard drive options, and a dedicated graphics processor for impressive graphics and performance. It supported a wide range of games, including popular franchises like Halo, Gears of War, and Mass Effect. The Xbox 360 contributed to the growth of digital distribution, offering downloadable content and games through Xbox Live Arcade. Despite facing some technical issues like the infamous “Red Ring of Death,” the Xbox 360 left a lasting impact on the gaming landscape and set the stage for subsequent generations of gaming consoles.

How to Start Reading Star Wars Comics in 2024

There are thousands of issues of Star Wars comics out there! How do you know where to start? Here are a couple of suggestions to get you started on you Star Wars comic reading journey!

The history of Star Wars comics is as expansive and rich as the galaxy far, far away itself. The comics have been a crucial part of Star Wars storytelling since the late 1970s, expanding the universe beyond the movies and providing fans with additional adventures, character development, and world-building.

Marvel Comics (1977-1986): Star Wars comics debuted in 1977, the same year as the original film, with Marvel Comics obtaining the license. Marvel published a series that expanded the stories of Luke Skywalker, Han Solo, and Princess Leia between the events of the original trilogy films. This series introduced new characters and explored various aspects of the Star Wars universe.

Dark Horse Comics (1991-2014): After Marvel’s run ended, Dark Horse Comics acquired the Star Wars license in 1991. They produced a wide range of comics, including standalone stories, limited series, and ongoing titles. Dark Horse delved into different eras, exploring the Old Republic, Clone Wars, and post-Return of the Jedi periods. Notable series like “Knights of the Old Republic,” “Legacy,” and “Dark Empire” expanded the lore and introduced compelling characters.

Return to Marvel (2015-present): In 2015, Marvel reacquired the Star Wars comics license. The new Marvel series picked up after the events of Episode IV: A New Hope and introduced fresh storylines, filling gaps between the original trilogy films. Marvel also explored new aspects of the Star Wars mythos, such as the backstory of Darth Vader and the early days of the Rebellion.

Throughout the years, Star Wars comics have been a platform for storytelling beyond the movies, showcasing beloved characters, introducing new ones, and expanding the lore of the Star Wars galaxy. The comics continue to be a vital part of the franchise, weaving narratives that complement and enrich the larger Star Wars saga.

Using a Z Flip 5 as a minimalist phone (Front screen only!)

In an attempt to use my phone less I decided to do a little experiment: could I use only the 3.2-inch front screen of the Z Flip 5 as my daily driver for a week, with no shortcuts to social media apps up front to distract me? In theory, it would allow me the full phone I need (by flipping the thing open) when I had to and the minimal phone I wanted for everything else.

Curious what the most influential cell phones of all time are? Well…Identifying the top 5 most influential cell phones is subjective, but these devices have significantly impacted the mobile industry and altered the way people interact with technology:

  1. Motorola DynaTAC 8000X (1984): Often referred to as the “brick phone,” the DynaTAC 8000X was the first commercially available handheld mobile phone. Its release marked the inception of mobile communication, despite its size and limited functionality. This device set the foundation for the future of mobile technology.
  2. Nokia 3310 (2000): The Nokia 3310 became a cultural icon due to its robustness, long-lasting battery life, and user-friendly design. It was one of the best-selling phones globally and contributed to the widespread adoption of mobile phones. Its simplicity and durability made it a beloved device for many users.
  3. Apple iPhone (2007): The original iPhone redefined the smartphone landscape, introducing a touch-based interface, mobile internet browsing, and a robust ecosystem of apps. Its intuitive design, multi-touch display, and the App Store revolutionized how people used and perceived smartphones.
  4. BlackBerry 850 (1999) and subsequent models: BlackBerry phones, especially the BlackBerry 850 and later models like the BlackBerry Curve and Bold, were instrumental in popularizing mobile email and messaging. They were widely adopted by professionals for their efficient email capabilities, QWERTY keyboards, and secure messaging services.
  5. Samsung Galaxy S Series (2010 – present): Samsung’s Galaxy S series, starting with the original Galaxy S, played a crucial role in the Android smartphone market. These devices introduced advanced features, powerful hardware, and innovative designs, contributing to the growth and popularity of Android-based smartphones globally.

These phones each contributed to pivotal shifts in the mobile industry, shaping trends, consumer expectations, and technological advancements. Their influence continues to resonate in today’s smartphones and mobile devices.

Do RED Sports Cars Get Pulled Over More Often? (Road Trip VLOG)

An excellent technique when driving with multiple red sports cars, keep switching positions after being flagged, which creates doubt as to who was specifically caught at what speed.

The United States offers an array of scenic and iconic road trips that cater to various interests and preferences. Here are some of the most popular ones:

  1. Pacific Coast Highway (California): Running along the California coast, this drive offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, winding through Big Sur’s rugged cliffs, charming towns like Santa Barbara and Monterey, and iconic landmarks like the Bixby Creek Bridge.
  2. Route 66 (Chicago to Santa Monica): Known as the “Mother Road,” this historic highway spans multiple states, offering a nostalgic journey through classic Americana, small towns, quirky roadside attractions, and glimpses of American culture.
  3. Blue Ridge Parkway (Virginia to North Carolina): Meandering through the Appalachian Mountains, this scenic drive provides breathtaking views of lush forests, vibrant foliage (especially during fall), and access to Shenandoah and Great Smoky Mountains National Parks.
  4. Going-to-the-Sun Road (Montana): Located in Glacier National Park, this mountainous road offers jaw-dropping vistas of glaciers, alpine meadows, and wildlife, crossing the Continental Divide with unforgettable scenery.
  5. Highway 101 (Oregon to Washington): This route hugs the coastline of Oregon and Washington, offering picturesque views of rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, coastal towns, and stunning sea stacks.
  6. The Loneliest Road (US-50, Nevada): Dubbed as one of the loneliest stretches of road, this route crosses Nevada’s vast landscapes, showcasing wide-open spaces, desert scenery, and quirky stops along the way.
  7. The Great River Road (Mississippi River): Stretching from Minnesota to Louisiana, this road follows the Mississippi River, passing through charming river towns, historic sites, and offering a glimpse into American history and culture.

These road trips vary in length, scenery, and experiences, catering to different preferences, whether it’s coastal drives, mountainous terrains, historic routes, or scenic byways.

Retro Gaming with a Heavy Metal Soundtrack