Apple needs and intervention. A while back I wrote an article on Apple's "thinness", their insatiable desire to make everything as lite as possible. I was, after much thought, going to write a followup saying that perhaps it isn't a bad thing, that most laptops now are following suit, but then the 2016 MacBook Pro happened. At first I thought it wasn't bad, I like the touch bar, the design, the space grey color, and that finally understood what what makes good speakers. As you dig deeper, it goes from an interesting piece of technology, to an overpriced door stop that makes me want to abandon Apple like a sinking ship.
Is there a point where simplifying something so much that it actually becomes more complicated? The YouTube channel "Cold Fusion" (linked below) discussed this in detail in regards to the new MacBook Pro. It seems to be a trend in apple's overall design, simplifying design to the point where function is ignored.
When Steve Jobs returned to Apple in the late 1990s, he took a company that had lost it's direction and turned it into a juggernaut that would dominate computer design. He pushed form, function, and power, creating devices that would improve our lives and look good doing it to. Many companies followed Apple's direction (some got sued) and Apple became the trendsetter for computers and devices. Under Jobs they created the iPod, iPhone, and iPad, his introduction of the iMac revolutionized computer styling, and whenApple switched to intel ushering in a new era of powerful desktops and laptop more compatible with their PC brethren.
In 2011, Steve Jobs passed away, bringing an end to his version of the Meiji Restoration. The question was, could Apple continue the momentum? Tim Cook seceded Jobs as the CEO of Apple, while he hasn't pushed Apple back to the Pre-Steve Jobs 1990s era, many would agree that he his moving in that direction. Under Cook, Apple's have become thinner and lighter, but at the expense of the versatility and functionality that made the Macintosh such a reliable machine. The most recent MacBook Pro, for example, has almost no upgradeable parts and USB-C/Thunderbolt-3 ports that aren't universally adopted.
Compare the new MacBook Pro to my Mid-2012 model. While it doesn't have a Retina display and a fast battery, it has interchangeable RAM and Hard Drive (upgraded mine to a 1TB SSD), and a replace able battery. An intel i7 running at 2.9GHz. It still uses MagSafe if someone trips over the cable. A lineup of universally accepted ports. Finally a DVD superdrive that can interchanged with a second hard drive bay. It doesn't use current technology, it could out pace newer laptops and will likely prove itself still useful in the coming years.
The Bloomberg article (linked below) makes Apple's intentions clear, the focus is on the iPad, iPhone, and iOS, and that way of thinking has infected the way new Mac's are made. The iPhone has less ports, and so will the mac, and now there is no division dedicated to the development Mac Os. The Macintosh is a much smaller part of Apple's revenue stream, however a lot of creative professionals use them because of how the hardware and software is attuned to their creative needs. A lot of them are now forced to question that, and we are either being forced to compromise with a dozen dongles and poor battery life, or switch to a windows platform.
It feels like Apple has put more effort into the iPad pro, and with it's keyboard case and "Apple Pen" than it did with the new MacBook Pro with it's gimmicky touch bar. The problem is, the iPad pro can run full adobe programs like the Microsoft Surface line, which now has a touch screen desktop in its line up, something that Apple's resident village idiot Phil Shiller says no one would want (the article below from "Product Review shows a modern reimagine of the iMac G4 that would be amazing). Shiller also feels sad if you use an older Mac, sorry I won't help pay for your second house.
Apple really needs to figure out it's priorities; is it to make high end professional machines or appeal to the fashion sense of Millennial hipsters? Those of us who use Macs in our lives, home and at work have some serious questions to ask ourselves because it's clear that Apple is shifting it's priorities from the Mac line. For now my Mid 2012 MacBook Pro will keep trudging along, and aside from the screen quality, it still feels like a new computer, it doesn't want to quit. Perhaps they'll get the message, there is always hope that if their numbers go down, maybe they'll have a double take. There is always the Hackitosh if that does't work......
Sources:
http://www.macrumors.com/2016/11/23/jony-ive-speculation-role/
http://www.product-reviews.net/2016/11/15/apple-reaffirms-stance-on-touchscreen-imac-will-never-be-released/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xp4ypElIp2M
https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2016-12-20/how-apple-alienated-mac-loyalists
Friday, December 23, 2016
Saturday, November 26, 2016
A Final Thought
Before delve into my review of "The Grand Tour" and once more complain about Apple's lack of "Appleness", I will say a fee last words about the election. The level to which people have taken the results of the election two weeks ago forces to the question of whether or we should just abolish the Presidency altogether. Obviously that would be a terrible I idea, but with proliferation of social media and the media's coverage are at the point of being intolerable.
We have no one to blame but ourselves for the results of this election. We're the ones who listened to the media, listened to the candidates, and decided based upon party rather than on principle. Instead of picking from the top shelf in the primaries, we drove our hands directly in the cesspool of American society and politics. Neither candidate was the ideal choice, yet they were made the front runners. And when the third parties tried to give you an alternative, you all still didn't listen.
The American voter is more dazzled by a sensationalized campaign, than a look at the actual facts. We want everything in bite sized tweets so we don't have to think real hard or read for a few seconds. It's probably the reason Apple can make computers that are almost useless and Samsung can make a phone that explodes and still make a profit.
I beg everyone, in 2020, please think about the candidates presented before. Do your research and stop listening to what the main stream media and the hype of social media. It is tiresome have to always pick between the lesser of two evils or a third party no one listens too. This campaign and it's aftermath have probably jaded more people to the political process than any other campaign. Every four years we have two terrible candidates that no one wants, despite being the people's choice, and then complain about the result and blame it on everything else but ourselves.
We have no one to blame but ourselves for the results of this election. We're the ones who listened to the media, listened to the candidates, and decided based upon party rather than on principle. Instead of picking from the top shelf in the primaries, we drove our hands directly in the cesspool of American society and politics. Neither candidate was the ideal choice, yet they were made the front runners. And when the third parties tried to give you an alternative, you all still didn't listen.
The American voter is more dazzled by a sensationalized campaign, than a look at the actual facts. We want everything in bite sized tweets so we don't have to think real hard or read for a few seconds. It's probably the reason Apple can make computers that are almost useless and Samsung can make a phone that explodes and still make a profit.
I beg everyone, in 2020, please think about the candidates presented before. Do your research and stop listening to what the main stream media and the hype of social media. It is tiresome have to always pick between the lesser of two evils or a third party no one listens too. This campaign and it's aftermath have probably jaded more people to the political process than any other campaign. Every four years we have two terrible candidates that no one wants, despite being the people's choice, and then complain about the result and blame it on everything else but ourselves.
Wednesday, November 9, 2016
The End Result
Donald J. Trump will now be President of the United States of America, the most powerful world leader on the face of the Earth. In January he will sworn in and assume his new role and take the office. What started as a joke in the minds of Americans has become reality. How did this happen?
Let us go back in time, to the beginning, in 2015. The origins lay in the primaries, the early success of Rand Paul, Trump's rapid rise, and the massive movement behind Bernie Sanders. 2016 was the year of the outsider, a movement against the establishment. Even the third parties, particularly Gary Johnson gained more recognition than any other previous year (though it wasn't enough).
Many Americans are tired of the status quo, the established order. Dissatisfaction with the direction of the country, economy, and the continuous unending wars. People feel tired and disillusioned and are looking for a change. Obama promised "Hope and Change", and yes we did get a new health care system, troops were pulled out of Iraq, Osama Bin Laden is dead, Net Neutrality was protected, and LGBT rights were expanded. However people are facing rising prices on Obama care, the war on terror has expanded, the government's invasion of privacy hasn't ended, and not everyone is seeing an improvement in the economy. Many people see the government as an overbearing parent rather than an institution that is designed to with and for them.
The seeds of what happened last night were sown of the course of the last sixteen years through government regulation, intervention, and poor foreign policy. The President isn't the only one to blame though, one must look at Congress as well. They pass laws, approve the budget, and confirm the President's Supreme Court appointments. Our government was setup with checks and balances that prevent one group or person from having all the power.
I am still trying to comprehend what happened last night, only few times in American politics has anything this unprecedented happened. Though for the reasons stated above, we can understand why this happened. Granted, the requirements for being President are, that you have to be an American citizen and 35 years of age, but most have had some form of political experience.
This has been one of the most amusing, irritating, annoying, and frustrating elections that I have ever seen. What the next four years will entail is a mystery, who can say when the one entering office is an outsider to the political club.
This is a new frontier in American politics and who knows where it will lead, it could be good or bad, hopefully good. The only thing we can do is wait and see.
Let us go back in time, to the beginning, in 2015. The origins lay in the primaries, the early success of Rand Paul, Trump's rapid rise, and the massive movement behind Bernie Sanders. 2016 was the year of the outsider, a movement against the establishment. Even the third parties, particularly Gary Johnson gained more recognition than any other previous year (though it wasn't enough).
Many Americans are tired of the status quo, the established order. Dissatisfaction with the direction of the country, economy, and the continuous unending wars. People feel tired and disillusioned and are looking for a change. Obama promised "Hope and Change", and yes we did get a new health care system, troops were pulled out of Iraq, Osama Bin Laden is dead, Net Neutrality was protected, and LGBT rights were expanded. However people are facing rising prices on Obama care, the war on terror has expanded, the government's invasion of privacy hasn't ended, and not everyone is seeing an improvement in the economy. Many people see the government as an overbearing parent rather than an institution that is designed to with and for them.
The seeds of what happened last night were sown of the course of the last sixteen years through government regulation, intervention, and poor foreign policy. The President isn't the only one to blame though, one must look at Congress as well. They pass laws, approve the budget, and confirm the President's Supreme Court appointments. Our government was setup with checks and balances that prevent one group or person from having all the power.
I am still trying to comprehend what happened last night, only few times in American politics has anything this unprecedented happened. Though for the reasons stated above, we can understand why this happened. Granted, the requirements for being President are, that you have to be an American citizen and 35 years of age, but most have had some form of political experience.
This has been one of the most amusing, irritating, annoying, and frustrating elections that I have ever seen. What the next four years will entail is a mystery, who can say when the one entering office is an outsider to the political club.
This is a new frontier in American politics and who knows where it will lead, it could be good or bad, hopefully good. The only thing we can do is wait and see.
Tuesday, November 8, 2016
Sunday, September 18, 2016
On Being Catholic & The New Wars of Religion
There have been more truly horrific times in the history of this world. From 1914 to 1918 we fought the bloodiest war we have ever known. From 1939 to 1945 we fought the world's most destructive war, with acts of inhumanity so terrible that had never been seen before. And after that war, we lived in fear that nuclear missiles would rain down upon us, and that too eventually came to a conclusion.
In all that horror, what kept evil at bay? Simple kindness and mercy and love. The Christmas truce during World War I, a German fighter escorting a damaged U.S. bomber to safety and German and American troops sharing Christmas together on the coldest nights during the Battle of the Buldge of World War II.
I think it is said best in this quote from the "Hobbit" films:
"…I don't know. Saruman believes it is only great power that can hold evil in check. But that is not what I have found. I've found it is the small things, everyday deeds of ordinary folk that keeps the darkness at bay. Simple acts of kindness and love. Why Bilbo Baggins? Perhaps it is because I am afraid… and he gives me courage." - Gandalf.
In the legends and stories of Tolkien's "Middle-Earth, the concept of self-sacrifice is prevalent throughout his works. It's a very Christian concept to be willing give up one's life for another, that and generally being kind and helping to others. Today Christianity is associated with idea that it is a force that holds humanity back with it's demonization of science, and that as a religion, it is the source of war and evil in this world. Indeed, religion has been used as an excuse for war and the destruction of information. People have manipulated the concepts taught in religion to control others, it can be a terrifying source of power.
As a Catholic, I was never taught that my religion doesn't stop me from learning nor was it a source of power that controlled me. What I learned was more of being a good person and life lessons. Throughout my life I was never prevented from friending people who didn't share the same beliefs as me, in fact almost none of my friends are practicing Christians.
It wasn't until I was older that I saw the beliefs of other Christian denominations and the world's reactions. Christians who went out into the street and yelled at random people on the street, saying "you'll go to Hell if you don't convert." People who just seemed so blinded by their faith. I can appreciate a devotion to ones faith, but when it makes you so blind that you judge others without any knowledge, your no longer following the Christian ethic. "Judge not others, lest you be judged."
The media has take this recent tide of right-wing evangelical ideology and helped fume the flames of a "War on Religion." People who are religious, especially Christians, are bigots and hateful people who want to turn this country into a theocracy. But instead of focusing their reporting on the groups that preach hateful interpretations, they lump everyone into one group. All Christians are people who want to bring us back technologically and scientifically, and are violent hateful people who use the Bible as their justification. Those people exist, but they don't represent every Christian.
Being this time of year, lets ask the question below and look at whats going with religion in our society.
Is there a a war on Christmas?
This is a question with a yes and a no answer. Every year almost we hear on the news the "War on Christmas", how society is trying to remove it with sayings like "Happy Holidays", and this year the controversy over the minimalist Starbucks red cup. In reality, however, this isn't the truth, there really isn't a war. No one is stopping you from putting up a tree and decorating, shopping for presents, or celebrating in general, it's become very much a part of American society.
The true war on Christmas is the commercialization of the holiday. Images are broadcast on the news of people streaming into stores on Black Friday, like the orcs when they breach the gates of "Minas Tirth." They storm in for the deals and likely spend more on themselves than others. Moreover, Christmas has been turned into this period of intense shopping where we focus more on material processions than the true meaning of the holiday and that it's a time to spend with friends and loved ones. Gifts are a nice part of the holiday, but not everything.
Is there a war on Religion?
In this country at the world as a whole, yes there is. The push for secularism isn't a bad thing, secular countries tend to have more religious tolerance and acceptance. But there seems to be a push to completely push religion out of society totally. There is an idea that religion is holding society back on social issues and the advancement of technology, while historically this isn't necessarily true, there are religious elements today that do this. Evangelicals, especially the more fundamentalist ones, refuse to recognize parts of science that seemingly contradict with their literal interpretation of the "Bible." As well as demand that parts of society be suppressed for the same contradiction.
This, coupled with the rise of violent Islamic extremism, has led many to believe that religion is an evil in this, a relic that needs to be stamped out. It is the source of oppression, violence, war, and is anti-knowledge. Through media and especially social media, religion has been put down as a source of evil. But with the belittling and seeming hatred towards religion, many have sought a safe place with the more radical religious, a place where they can gather and be open with their faith. Not a bad thing, but this does have it's consequences, as many evangelicals have been aggressive in their efforts to convert, as was the scene at a Catholic church in Las Vegas (linked below).
It's the classic tale of two sides attacking one another, but only finding themselves strengthening the other. While it may seem that the atheists and non-religious are winning, faith can be a powerful motivator and weapon, again, just look at the Middle-east. Like a cornered cat, they will lash back with great ferocity.
As a Catholic, I feel myself set in this battle between both sides, disliked by each. The Evangelical / Protestant crowd has had a history of hate towards Catholics (not everyone), they consider us polytheists because of the "Trinity", worshipers of idols, and blind followers of the "devil" Pope. Meanwhile, atheists lump us in with the rest of religious extremists as bigots and hateful people. I can not express in "clean" words how much all this sends me into a rage. The accusations, insults, and belittling have made me feel completely unwelcome in this country, despite being third generation born here, and the media doesn't help. We're supposed to be a nation of tolerance and acceptance, but it only works on a double-standard depending upon who is in political power.
So, let me explain what it means for me to be Catholic. Historically, the Catholic Church have done some awful things, but they have also been the ones to fund social programs and many of the oldest universities in Europe. They worked towards the translation and preservation of classic works, this includes monks saving many Mayan and Aztec works of literature. They were also the patrons of art, and yes even science. The current calendar was created by a Pope in the 1500s, and the "big bang theory" was proposed by a Catholic priest. Monks were know to practice botany, and possibly as a result have made some of the best beer ever made, "Abbey Ale".
Being a Catholic doesn't mean blinding yourself to knowledge, nor trying to purge society of "undesirables." I've always looked at being a Catholic as spiritual and a moral guide to being a good person. We study the "Bible" in a analytical way, not literal, it's a collection of historical accounts, fables, psalms, and lessons. It was written by people trying to make sense of the world that they live in, thus it can't contradict science. However, science can not contradict the existence of God. The Universe is a vast and we know less than a fraction of what it contains. You CAN have your cake and eat it too.
I've come to believe that it wasn't physical appearance, but a creative spirt of God that we were created in the image of. There is a infinity to creativity, God, and the Universe. While yes, other creatures do have the ability to create very simple tools and shelters, none, of the complexity of human creative mind.
Finally, if there is one the thing I have gained from being Catholic is that, we're human, and we are not perfect, and to accept that. We are to strive to be better people and accept the flaws ourselves and others, and show respect. As I have said, I would never try to tell someone what to believe, I would need to be 100% secure in my faith, and part of the journey. I would help someone on that journey, but never force anyone into it. The Church itself is run by humans, thus it is an imperfect organization, but at it's core is a goal to help build a better world. I don't judge it by the people, including the clergy involved in the sex scandals, nor the few jackass priests I have met in my life.
In conclusion, religion is and will be a part of our society for the foreseeable future. People will believe in beings they can not see and follow the teachings with much vigor. If we are to move forward as a society we must accept these people, and recognize those who wish to use it as a means of power and control, as a means to spread fear and hate. Religion is not evil, only this who manipulate it for their own selfish means. In this country it is not anyones right to force some to believe or not too, this nation was based on freedom of speech and freedom of belief, and if we are going to a beacon in the future for people seeking freedom, that idea must be accepted.
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gregorian_calendar
http://townhall.com/tipsheet/christinerousselle/2015/12/14/group-disrupts-catholic-mass-in-las-vegas-n2093502
http://www.cruxnow.com/faith/2015/11/17/why-dont-catholics-read-the-bible/
In all that horror, what kept evil at bay? Simple kindness and mercy and love. The Christmas truce during World War I, a German fighter escorting a damaged U.S. bomber to safety and German and American troops sharing Christmas together on the coldest nights during the Battle of the Buldge of World War II.
I think it is said best in this quote from the "Hobbit" films:
"…I don't know. Saruman believes it is only great power that can hold evil in check. But that is not what I have found. I've found it is the small things, everyday deeds of ordinary folk that keeps the darkness at bay. Simple acts of kindness and love. Why Bilbo Baggins? Perhaps it is because I am afraid… and he gives me courage." - Gandalf.
In the legends and stories of Tolkien's "Middle-Earth, the concept of self-sacrifice is prevalent throughout his works. It's a very Christian concept to be willing give up one's life for another, that and generally being kind and helping to others. Today Christianity is associated with idea that it is a force that holds humanity back with it's demonization of science, and that as a religion, it is the source of war and evil in this world. Indeed, religion has been used as an excuse for war and the destruction of information. People have manipulated the concepts taught in religion to control others, it can be a terrifying source of power.
As a Catholic, I was never taught that my religion doesn't stop me from learning nor was it a source of power that controlled me. What I learned was more of being a good person and life lessons. Throughout my life I was never prevented from friending people who didn't share the same beliefs as me, in fact almost none of my friends are practicing Christians.
It wasn't until I was older that I saw the beliefs of other Christian denominations and the world's reactions. Christians who went out into the street and yelled at random people on the street, saying "you'll go to Hell if you don't convert." People who just seemed so blinded by their faith. I can appreciate a devotion to ones faith, but when it makes you so blind that you judge others without any knowledge, your no longer following the Christian ethic. "Judge not others, lest you be judged."
The media has take this recent tide of right-wing evangelical ideology and helped fume the flames of a "War on Religion." People who are religious, especially Christians, are bigots and hateful people who want to turn this country into a theocracy. But instead of focusing their reporting on the groups that preach hateful interpretations, they lump everyone into one group. All Christians are people who want to bring us back technologically and scientifically, and are violent hateful people who use the Bible as their justification. Those people exist, but they don't represent every Christian.
Being this time of year, lets ask the question below and look at whats going with religion in our society.
Is there a a war on Christmas?
This is a question with a yes and a no answer. Every year almost we hear on the news the "War on Christmas", how society is trying to remove it with sayings like "Happy Holidays", and this year the controversy over the minimalist Starbucks red cup. In reality, however, this isn't the truth, there really isn't a war. No one is stopping you from putting up a tree and decorating, shopping for presents, or celebrating in general, it's become very much a part of American society.
The true war on Christmas is the commercialization of the holiday. Images are broadcast on the news of people streaming into stores on Black Friday, like the orcs when they breach the gates of "Minas Tirth." They storm in for the deals and likely spend more on themselves than others. Moreover, Christmas has been turned into this period of intense shopping where we focus more on material processions than the true meaning of the holiday and that it's a time to spend with friends and loved ones. Gifts are a nice part of the holiday, but not everything.
Is there a war on Religion?
In this country at the world as a whole, yes there is. The push for secularism isn't a bad thing, secular countries tend to have more religious tolerance and acceptance. But there seems to be a push to completely push religion out of society totally. There is an idea that religion is holding society back on social issues and the advancement of technology, while historically this isn't necessarily true, there are religious elements today that do this. Evangelicals, especially the more fundamentalist ones, refuse to recognize parts of science that seemingly contradict with their literal interpretation of the "Bible." As well as demand that parts of society be suppressed for the same contradiction.
This, coupled with the rise of violent Islamic extremism, has led many to believe that religion is an evil in this, a relic that needs to be stamped out. It is the source of oppression, violence, war, and is anti-knowledge. Through media and especially social media, religion has been put down as a source of evil. But with the belittling and seeming hatred towards religion, many have sought a safe place with the more radical religious, a place where they can gather and be open with their faith. Not a bad thing, but this does have it's consequences, as many evangelicals have been aggressive in their efforts to convert, as was the scene at a Catholic church in Las Vegas (linked below).
It's the classic tale of two sides attacking one another, but only finding themselves strengthening the other. While it may seem that the atheists and non-religious are winning, faith can be a powerful motivator and weapon, again, just look at the Middle-east. Like a cornered cat, they will lash back with great ferocity.
As a Catholic, I feel myself set in this battle between both sides, disliked by each. The Evangelical / Protestant crowd has had a history of hate towards Catholics (not everyone), they consider us polytheists because of the "Trinity", worshipers of idols, and blind followers of the "devil" Pope. Meanwhile, atheists lump us in with the rest of religious extremists as bigots and hateful people. I can not express in "clean" words how much all this sends me into a rage. The accusations, insults, and belittling have made me feel completely unwelcome in this country, despite being third generation born here, and the media doesn't help. We're supposed to be a nation of tolerance and acceptance, but it only works on a double-standard depending upon who is in political power.
So, let me explain what it means for me to be Catholic. Historically, the Catholic Church have done some awful things, but they have also been the ones to fund social programs and many of the oldest universities in Europe. They worked towards the translation and preservation of classic works, this includes monks saving many Mayan and Aztec works of literature. They were also the patrons of art, and yes even science. The current calendar was created by a Pope in the 1500s, and the "big bang theory" was proposed by a Catholic priest. Monks were know to practice botany, and possibly as a result have made some of the best beer ever made, "Abbey Ale".
Being a Catholic doesn't mean blinding yourself to knowledge, nor trying to purge society of "undesirables." I've always looked at being a Catholic as spiritual and a moral guide to being a good person. We study the "Bible" in a analytical way, not literal, it's a collection of historical accounts, fables, psalms, and lessons. It was written by people trying to make sense of the world that they live in, thus it can't contradict science. However, science can not contradict the existence of God. The Universe is a vast and we know less than a fraction of what it contains. You CAN have your cake and eat it too.
I've come to believe that it wasn't physical appearance, but a creative spirt of God that we were created in the image of. There is a infinity to creativity, God, and the Universe. While yes, other creatures do have the ability to create very simple tools and shelters, none, of the complexity of human creative mind.
Finally, if there is one the thing I have gained from being Catholic is that, we're human, and we are not perfect, and to accept that. We are to strive to be better people and accept the flaws ourselves and others, and show respect. As I have said, I would never try to tell someone what to believe, I would need to be 100% secure in my faith, and part of the journey. I would help someone on that journey, but never force anyone into it. The Church itself is run by humans, thus it is an imperfect organization, but at it's core is a goal to help build a better world. I don't judge it by the people, including the clergy involved in the sex scandals, nor the few jackass priests I have met in my life.
In conclusion, religion is and will be a part of our society for the foreseeable future. People will believe in beings they can not see and follow the teachings with much vigor. If we are to move forward as a society we must accept these people, and recognize those who wish to use it as a means of power and control, as a means to spread fear and hate. Religion is not evil, only this who manipulate it for their own selfish means. In this country it is not anyones right to force some to believe or not too, this nation was based on freedom of speech and freedom of belief, and if we are going to a beacon in the future for people seeking freedom, that idea must be accepted.
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gregorian_calendar
http://townhall.com/tipsheet/christinerousselle/2015/12/14/group-disrupts-catholic-mass-in-las-vegas-n2093502
http://www.cruxnow.com/faith/2015/11/17/why-dont-catholics-read-the-bible/
To provide some context.
To give some context to the post I made earlier, it was supposed to be a response to a captioned picture a friend posted, but I thought it would better here. It deals with the struggles (in a humorous manor) of life. You try to make yourself look happy, but in realty your "stumbling" through life without to much direction looking for purpose.
I am 27 years old, and due to financial circumstances, I still live at home. In many ways I feel as if I am stuck in this sort of "middle area", between being a young person and being an adult (of some sort). What's my direction? What will the future hold? What am I doing with my life? In short, I'm scatter brained. Trying to answer those questions, while dealing with work, bills, and the long process of writing a novel series.
Childhood does look like a simpler period time, you didn't have as much freedom to make decisions or go where you want, but everything seemed to just fall into place. Nothing to worry about, just do your homework and then go watch TV and play with your legos, or decide what video game you'll play next. Again, simple.
Now, you have to decide whether or not jump headfirst into life decisions or plan it out and throughly. You have to think about money and deal with the cruel tricks life throws at you. The crazy dreams are tempered by reality and the world expects you to be one way and you would prefer to be something else. You try to act like an adult, but you would rather be a kid again.
It's all confusing, hell, what I just wrote might make no sense to most, but life doesn't seem to make any, anyways. I guess the question in the end is, what is the meaning of life? Perhaps it just to be a good person and give to society. Or maybe there is a spiritual aspect to it. Or it could simply be different per-person. But when but it's you, you'll likely know.
I am 27 years old, and due to financial circumstances, I still live at home. In many ways I feel as if I am stuck in this sort of "middle area", between being a young person and being an adult (of some sort). What's my direction? What will the future hold? What am I doing with my life? In short, I'm scatter brained. Trying to answer those questions, while dealing with work, bills, and the long process of writing a novel series.
Childhood does look like a simpler period time, you didn't have as much freedom to make decisions or go where you want, but everything seemed to just fall into place. Nothing to worry about, just do your homework and then go watch TV and play with your legos, or decide what video game you'll play next. Again, simple.
Now, you have to decide whether or not jump headfirst into life decisions or plan it out and throughly. You have to think about money and deal with the cruel tricks life throws at you. The crazy dreams are tempered by reality and the world expects you to be one way and you would prefer to be something else. You try to act like an adult, but you would rather be a kid again.
It's all confusing, hell, what I just wrote might make no sense to most, but life doesn't seem to make any, anyways. I guess the question in the end is, what is the meaning of life? Perhaps it just to be a good person and give to society. Or maybe there is a spiritual aspect to it. Or it could simply be different per-person. But when but it's you, you'll likely know.
Random thought of the Day.
Many of us stumble through life trying to find purpose in something, the meaning of life. We set goals and then wonder are they worth it or is there an better way to accomplish it or we just get lazy. We want the simplicity of when we were younger, but also the excitement that we always dreamed of, but settle on the reasonable middle because...eh. You can't decide on sushi or steak, but compromise on the chicken, because it's guaranteed to satisfy and taste good without making you feel like you've just ingested half a cow or whether or not you should jump at something so exotic to your pallet. And perhaps, at some point, you come to a conclusion, that life is a confusing set of decisions and the answer will hit you in the face like an exploding samsung battery and........ I'm not sure, I'm just rambling at this point. Maybe there is no spoon.
Wednesday, September 7, 2016
Apple's Special Event: A Reaction
Apple today introduced there new iPhone 7, Apple Watch, and "Ear Pods". While for some that is fantastic news, for me it's... ok. Disappointing is a better sentiment, what they showed us was interesting and innovative, I was hoping for the rumored new MacBook Pro. The "life style gadgets" have their appeal, I used an iPhone 6, but I prefer raw power and the innovations surrounding computers.
I have been an Apple fan since my family bought our first iMac, and since then the vast majority of my computers, and even some gadgets have been from apple. However, I could honestly care less about the Apple Watch (I personally think it's stupid and overpriced), and the iPhone is nifty, but I still use my laptop (MacBook Pro mid-2012) for doing most tasks.
Apple's current trends haven't impressed me recently, with the exception of the new Mac Pro. Thinness isn't everything and not everything has to be wireless, they are annoying, but better then two "Pods" that can't wrap around your phone and you'll probably lose one. I'll probably get an iPhone 7 at some point, but with proper lightening cable headphones, or an adapter.
Rant concluded.
Tuesday, August 9, 2016
A Quick though on the Current Election
(Originally written as response on Facebook.)
It was a new low when we, out of wide field of candidates, put these two forward as the prime presidential candidates. a moron and a liar. We have no one to blame but out selves, We can either look at what the third parties have to offer, demand that this election be reset, or chose the "lesser of two evils." Do not fool yourselves, both are just as bad, they are both reckless, and while Trump's as only been through his words, Clinton has outright violated the trust of the American people with here actions, as Secretary of State and with her foundation. If only the media would be so bold as to treat both candidates on the same level rather than give favors to one or or the other, or push others aside because they deem them nonviable. We should all be ashamed for what has happened in this election, but I also hope that it gives us a good lesson when we only look at the surface in these elections.
It was a new low when we, out of wide field of candidates, put these two forward as the prime presidential candidates. a moron and a liar. We have no one to blame but out selves, We can either look at what the third parties have to offer, demand that this election be reset, or chose the "lesser of two evils." Do not fool yourselves, both are just as bad, they are both reckless, and while Trump's as only been through his words, Clinton has outright violated the trust of the American people with here actions, as Secretary of State and with her foundation. If only the media would be so bold as to treat both candidates on the same level rather than give favors to one or or the other, or push others aside because they deem them nonviable. We should all be ashamed for what has happened in this election, but I also hope that it gives us a good lesson when we only look at the surface in these elections.
Tuesday, July 26, 2016
Star Trek Beyond: A Review
Despite my reservations about it, Star Trek Beyond was not the joke of a Star Trek film I thought it would be. Obviously there more than a number of canonical flaws, this being a reboot series set in an alternate timeline that seems to have every little concern for what came before it, other than the memes. However, I will over look those flaws for something I have wanted out this new series since the very beginning, that it be Star Trek and not Star Wars.
So what was good and what was bad? Lets look at the bad first:
The Bad
The Good
So what was good and what was bad? Lets look at the bad first:
The Bad
- The worst part of this film was the villain, "Krall". A former "Starfleet Officer" for the 2160s (Star Trek: Enterprise era). His ship and crew crash landed on a planet populated by worker robots from a civilization that had abandoned them long ago. Heavily mutated by the ancient technology that allowed them to extend life, he planned his revenge on the "Federation" for "abandoning" him there. basically he is disgruntled officer who decided to shoot up his old office. Also his philosophy made no sense, then again he's basically a raving mad man.
The Good
- The best thing about this film was, instead of shooting their way out, the crew used their skills and resourcefulness to not only escape the planet after "Krall" attacked the Enterprise, but also to prevent his plan of revenge from coming to fruition. It was refreshing to have bar raised and appeal to what Star Trek fans have been asking for.
- Credit must also be given to the handling of "Dr. McCoy" and "Spock" by the actors and writers. The banter between the two of them was superb. Their silent respect for one another and constant back another arguing was beautifully reminiscent of the original show. All the actors portrayed their parts superbly, even "Kirk" was more like his character than memes about him.
Conclusion
This is not a perfect Star Trek, most of the films aren't, but this one lightyears ahead of it's predecessor. Star Trek from it's inception was meant to be a TV show, it's episodic nature and character development don't a good source from which films can be made, unless your willing to make a lot of them. Star Trek Beyond is a step in the right direction, solving problems intelligently with rich and interesting characters. If they can continue on this line, then there is hope for the future of the franchise.
Monday, July 11, 2016
A Quick Thought: Star Trek Beyond
The controversy surrounding the new Star Trek film deals with character of Sulu being portrayed as a gay man. According to the film thos is to bring LGBT representation into the film and is the fist LGBT character in Star Trek. However, George Takie, who played Sulu in the orgininal series, disagrees with this, saying that it is unfortunate and doesn't fit with Rodenberry's vision.
As a long time fan of of the series, I must agree with Mr. Takie, infact I would consider extremely lazy writing. Star Trek has never shied away from portraying controversial issues, in fact on "The Next Generation" and "Deep Space Nine", LGBT issues were looked in at least two episodes. This is just a shoehorn for the sake of political correctness, rather then taking on the social issue in a creative way.
In Gene Rodenberry's vision, someone being gay would be a nonissue. People of the 23ird and 24th centuries wouldn't have cared, just like Picard's bald head.I understand the creative license of an alternate universe, however the events that created it would not have changed everything, you are still bound by certain rules.
Wednesday, June 15, 2016
An Uncomfortable Discussion
Regardless of the venue if they are going to display a history of the United Sates, then you show the good and the bad. So are we just going to white wash our history now? If the stain-glass windows of the Washington National Cathedral depict the history of the United States, then they should remain, the good and the bad. The moment we start picking and choosing what part of our history to display, we lose where we came from, we lose ourselves.
What the south tried to defend is a more complex question that one of good vs. evil. Yes, slavery was a major factor, but so was the question of states rights; which was major reason for them seceding from the Union. Plus the removal of slavery would have greatly affected their agrarian economy in a negative way. Not to defend the south, but the Civil War is far more complex war than people make it out to be, a major transitional point in the nation affect the very soul of the country.
History should be taught in a pure way, not altered to fit a political agenda. If we don't know our past, then how are we supposed to prevent the mistakes of the past from repeating themselves? American history has it's good parts and it's bad parts, and the Civil War was one of it's darker chapters. It is where the issues from the founding of this nation came to a head, and unfortunately resolved with war, but we emerged as a stronger nation.
Unfortunately racism and prejudice are still prominent in our culture today. Removing a few flags and stain-glass windows will do nothing to end it. It will only help to create more divisiveness amongst Americans. We need to face the uncomfortable discussions of our time or else we may face another unfortunate breaking point again.
Links:
https://cathedral.org/lee-jackson-windows-task-force/
What the south tried to defend is a more complex question that one of good vs. evil. Yes, slavery was a major factor, but so was the question of states rights; which was major reason for them seceding from the Union. Plus the removal of slavery would have greatly affected their agrarian economy in a negative way. Not to defend the south, but the Civil War is far more complex war than people make it out to be, a major transitional point in the nation affect the very soul of the country.
History should be taught in a pure way, not altered to fit a political agenda. If we don't know our past, then how are we supposed to prevent the mistakes of the past from repeating themselves? American history has it's good parts and it's bad parts, and the Civil War was one of it's darker chapters. It is where the issues from the founding of this nation came to a head, and unfortunately resolved with war, but we emerged as a stronger nation.
Unfortunately racism and prejudice are still prominent in our culture today. Removing a few flags and stain-glass windows will do nothing to end it. It will only help to create more divisiveness amongst Americans. We need to face the uncomfortable discussions of our time or else we may face another unfortunate breaking point again.
Links:
https://cathedral.org/lee-jackson-windows-task-force/
Thursday, June 9, 2016
Not an Easy Choice
The news over the last few days has said that Hilary Clinton will be the Democratic nominee. Many people are dishartened by this, a man of the people defeated by the system. Even though I tend not to vote that way, I could see the quality of someone like Sanders, especially on the world stage.
Hilary is decitful and a liar, she helped distablize nations and create civil war. The people of Libya have nothing to thank her for. The global situation will only get worse under her administration, and more murderus groups will come to power. I don't know what it will be like under Trump, but it can't get any worse.
I can not tell you who to vote for, I haven't even come to a decision sice Rand Paul dropped out. I want a President who will uphold the Constitution and not involve us in pointless conflict. Could that be Trump? I couldn't tell you. In the end I may end up voting for Gary Johnson. All I can say is don't give into hate, keep an open mind, and look objectively. It's hard and frustrating, but its the right thing to do.
Sunday, April 10, 2016
Dear Boston Globe
Dear Boston Globe,
your job is to report the news or provide commentary. This is neither, this show your biased political agenda. This why the US news media should be second, to China and North Korea, in how horrible they are at reporting anything resembling news. Let people decided rather than telling them. Provide them with facts and intelligent facts rather than let your morons go wild with their biased political reactionary agenda. Plus, have you looked at Ted Cruz or Hilary Clinton, a religious zealot and a Neocon. They are going to keeping us at the status quo or make things worse. Trump is no perfect candidate, but all the good ones are are gone because people listen to the American media, and the media ignores who they think won't make a sensational candidate, and now look at what we have. Either report the news or shut your doors for good.
An annoyed American Citizen
Source:
http://www.npr.org/sections/thetwo-way/2016/04/10/473709316/boston-globe-runs-fake-front-page-detailing-a-donald-trump-world?utm_source=facebook.com&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=npr&utm_term=nprnews&utm_content=20160410
Tuesday, April 5, 2016
XBox One: A Review
I've tried to write this review a number of times, so I'm going to be blunt about it, I really don't care for the Xbox One (xbone). Most these reasons are entirely personal, central to that being I had built a gaming PC (& Hackintosh) prior to purchasing it. That, and the taint from the DRM incident (linked below). In all honesty, it's not a terrible system, this is no "Nintendo Virtual Boy", nor is it like the "Playstation 2" and all it's glory. It does do what it was designed to do with little to no issues, though I do have a few.
For one, that is installation of games on a console. Now, I understand that games are much bigger than they used to be and the graphics are tip toeing the edge of the uncanny valley, but game consoles are supposed to be about ease of use, not waiting for a game you just bought to install. I except that this is a fact with digital copies, but not with games on a disks. At that rate, I might as well just use my gaming PC because of better graphics and more options, such as mods. It's basically a more affordable gaming PC that will be outclassed by something better in the next few years.
Basically, my complaints are just small points from my own perspective, my own pet peeves. I don't like that it the campaign for this machine was based around "TV", if I want that, I'll buy a cheaper Apple TV or a Roku. As well as the lack of front facing ports and non upgradeable storage like it's predecessor (though can hook a hard drive into it). Most games now work cross platform, consoles are now just for exclusives, cost, and convince. That, and there is a lot of social media and gaming community stuff that I wish I could just uninstall, I could care less about MLG and "twitch" (unless they are showing a marathon of Bob Ross).
I won't adamantly, not recommend that you not buy this machine, but if you ask me I'll recommend that you look else where. However, the controller is solid, the interface is good, and console looks nice. The only reason I purchased one in the first place was to play with friends, rarely much for anything else. If you want a "Halo" machine, then get one, you got games to play and plenty of multiplayer or shout obscenities at. The only part of this system that I would praise is the controller, it's better then the "360" version, just buy it for your PC.
There you have it, my thoughts on the Xbone. Not a terrible system, but buy a Playstion 4 or a gaming PC, better investment.
Thanks for reading!
For one, that is installation of games on a console. Now, I understand that games are much bigger than they used to be and the graphics are tip toeing the edge of the uncanny valley, but game consoles are supposed to be about ease of use, not waiting for a game you just bought to install. I except that this is a fact with digital copies, but not with games on a disks. At that rate, I might as well just use my gaming PC because of better graphics and more options, such as mods. It's basically a more affordable gaming PC that will be outclassed by something better in the next few years.
Basically, my complaints are just small points from my own perspective, my own pet peeves. I don't like that it the campaign for this machine was based around "TV", if I want that, I'll buy a cheaper Apple TV or a Roku. As well as the lack of front facing ports and non upgradeable storage like it's predecessor (though can hook a hard drive into it). Most games now work cross platform, consoles are now just for exclusives, cost, and convince. That, and there is a lot of social media and gaming community stuff that I wish I could just uninstall, I could care less about MLG and "twitch" (unless they are showing a marathon of Bob Ross).
I won't adamantly, not recommend that you not buy this machine, but if you ask me I'll recommend that you look else where. However, the controller is solid, the interface is good, and console looks nice. The only reason I purchased one in the first place was to play with friends, rarely much for anything else. If you want a "Halo" machine, then get one, you got games to play and plenty of multiplayer or shout obscenities at. The only part of this system that I would praise is the controller, it's better then the "360" version, just buy it for your PC.
There you have it, my thoughts on the Xbone. Not a terrible system, but buy a Playstion 4 or a gaming PC, better investment.
Thanks for reading!
Thursday, March 24, 2016
A Quick Update and Thought
A Quick Update...
I will also be setting up a second blog. Yes, one might ask why when can't update this one on a regular basis. However this one will be a more focused one, art and my work at the print shop. The the "Printed Rambler" articles will be posted there from now on. I will post a link once I get that setup. I should setup a writing one at someone point, surrounding my future novel series, but maybe later.
So... A Quick thought....
The news is reporting today that North Carolina and Georgia (USA) are putting forth LGBT discriminatory laws. Georgia is call theirs a Religious Liberty law, but in basic terms they allow business to discriminate against LGBT people, deny them business. Now, what I am going to say may not be the popular idea, but let them pass it, don't punish business for that practice. My reasoning this that they will go to businesses, like my family's, who could care less what your sexual orientation is and just want to make money. In this case, money is not the root of evil but an equalizing factor. Their discriminatory practices is a benefit to those of us who only care about the money. Let karma be the punishment. 'It's a bitch, ain't it!'
Society usually corrects it's self in one way or another, and it's really only a small amount of people who feel like their religious rights are threatened. The Constitution grants you the right to worship as you chose and speak your mind. No one, only yourself, can take away those rights. LGBT people don't threaten the foundation of this society, only people chasing make-believe phantoms do. The real threats are out there in the world, try to kill us and destroy our way of life, liberty and freedom, and we shouldn't curtail our rights to save ourselves from them.
So, in conclusion, carry on and karma will take care of the rest.
Friday, February 19, 2016
Quick Thought: The Pope Vs. Trump
Once again an issue has developed that has everyone yelling like intwits in a burning building. The Pope, in reference to GoP candidate Trump, that those who "ONLY think about building walls, and not bridges" are unChristian. Trump has retorted by saying saying that "No leader (espcially religous) shouldn't question another man's religion." So let me put my prespctive on this.
First off, the Pope's comments probably should looked at in more of a metaphorical way. He's not against literal walls, but probably the idea of barring someone from your country because of who they are, and not extending a "bridge" of friendship. While Trump as said that he plans to build a wall on the border, but with a "large golden door".
To often we misinturrpret what people say and what they said loses it's true meaning. Take a 7/8th's aporoach when reading thia kind of statements, bemore informed than the average blind follower.
Tuesday, February 16, 2016
A Conflict of Interest
The death of Supreme Court Judge Antonin Scalia has left a major political battle in it's wake, the appointment of his successor. According to the Constitution, the President appoints Supreme Court Judges and congress approves them. However, in this, the last years of Obama's administration, the Republicans have said that they will do whatever they can to block his appointment, this could potentially mean violating the Constitution, however, apparently there is no set time upon which they have to approve a successor. This had had led to a major "conflict of interest" in the government.
For myself, this is also a "conflict of interest." On one hand I want them to follow the Constitution as it is written, as it is the source of our rights and the foundation of our government. It provides checks and balances in the government to prevent any one organization or person from taking to much power. But I also have no faith or trust that President Obama will place a judge who is Constitutional, and merits the appointment. His last few seemed to be based more on race and gender than anything else, and the same goes for his appointments to other government positions. I almost support what the Republicans are doing in the interest of the Constitution, "the enemy of my enemy is my friend."
I'm no supporter of the Republican party, however I do tend to vote their way because they field more candidates that have a grasp on reality. I can only hope that Obama's appointment is thought out carefully and with care, and Congress does what it can, Constitutionally, to make sure that happens.
For myself, this is also a "conflict of interest." On one hand I want them to follow the Constitution as it is written, as it is the source of our rights and the foundation of our government. It provides checks and balances in the government to prevent any one organization or person from taking to much power. But I also have no faith or trust that President Obama will place a judge who is Constitutional, and merits the appointment. His last few seemed to be based more on race and gender than anything else, and the same goes for his appointments to other government positions. I almost support what the Republicans are doing in the interest of the Constitution, "the enemy of my enemy is my friend."
I'm no supporter of the Republican party, however I do tend to vote their way because they field more candidates that have a grasp on reality. I can only hope that Obama's appointment is thought out carefully and with care, and Congress does what it can, Constitutionally, to make sure that happens.
Thursday, February 4, 2016
Liberty Will Fight on
As of yesterday, February 3rd, Rand Paul dropped out the race for the Presidency. After starting out strong, he floundered under the weight thrown around by Donald Trump and his name. After his last debate (minus Trump ) and his boycott prior, there seemed to be hope, a possible turnaround in his campaign. However it was not to be so, the religious right of Iowa turned out and voted Cruz as the caucus winner. Paul was left in fifth place with a single delegate. After that, he suspended his campaign to focus on his senate race in Kentucky.
It is a devastating defeat for the movement of liberty and the push for small government, but it's an understandable one. His voice and the voice of the people who believe will still be heard, his work can still be done in Congress. It's a defeat, but not an end to the fight. Rand Paul has said, "We’re not trading our liberty. Not now, not ever. Hell no. Liberty will live on. We fight on.” Four years from now, there will be another chance in 2020, and as an ophthalmologist (eye doctor) he better take advantage of that year, "2020 vision".
What is most troubling and frustrating though is who do we vote for now? Some have said that it should be Cruz because he supposedly has had a libertarian streak. One person I saw even posted that Paul supporters should vote for Bernie Sanders; a communist, I'm pretty sure that's the opposite of the liberty movement. As for me, I'm going for the libertarian candidate Gary Johnson in the main election, no he's not a major candidate, but I'm tired of choosing between who I dislike the least. As for the primaries, I may just flip a coin.
But it's up to all of you to decide for yourself. Look at the issues and not just the party the candidate is from. Keep up the fight!
It is a devastating defeat for the movement of liberty and the push for small government, but it's an understandable one. His voice and the voice of the people who believe will still be heard, his work can still be done in Congress. It's a defeat, but not an end to the fight. Rand Paul has said, "We’re not trading our liberty. Not now, not ever. Hell no. Liberty will live on. We fight on.” Four years from now, there will be another chance in 2020, and as an ophthalmologist (eye doctor) he better take advantage of that year, "2020 vision".
What is most troubling and frustrating though is who do we vote for now? Some have said that it should be Cruz because he supposedly has had a libertarian streak. One person I saw even posted that Paul supporters should vote for Bernie Sanders; a communist, I'm pretty sure that's the opposite of the liberty movement. As for me, I'm going for the libertarian candidate Gary Johnson in the main election, no he's not a major candidate, but I'm tired of choosing between who I dislike the least. As for the primaries, I may just flip a coin.
But it's up to all of you to decide for yourself. Look at the issues and not just the party the candidate is from. Keep up the fight!
Sunday, January 31, 2016
Destiny: A Review
Can a bad game be good? Could you appreciate a game that was less than what it should have been? These are the questions that are asked about the game “Destiny.” Bungie, well known for “Marathon” and “Halo”, is a game company that has pushed the limits and taken risks making some of the best games ever made. They have taken games, relegated to the category of children’s toys or hardcore PC gamers, to the level of major films and a multiplayer environment that revolutionized gaming. While I will always praise id Software overall, there is no denying by anyone of Bungie’s contributions to gaming as a whole. When it was revealed that after Bungie left Microsoft and put “Halo” behind them that they had a new project in the works, hopes and expectations were high, but as recent hipped have shown us, do not always hold to hope.
The problem with so many of the recent MMOs is that they promise a lot, but give you little; “Destiny” is only one in a long line of these games. But is it really as bad is people say it is? The glaring problems with the game are it’s lack of a compelling and “non-confusing” story line, issues with it’s lack features, such as player trading, “sparrow” racing (a vehicle that lets you travel around the map) among other missing features. However, what it lacks in features and story, it more than makes up for in gameplay; in a firefight, the mechanics feel like a blend of “Call of Duty”, “Halo”, and “Metroid Prime.” Mostly playing as a hunter class, mind you, I found mechanics fluid with the ability to attack multiple targets very quickly. This certainly is not a clunky and slow game, and with each upgrade you get, the more fluid your game play is. This is what will keep you invested in the game play more than the story, because, to be honest it's fun, and that's whats important. The combat system allows you to change between melee and gun, and gives you plenty of options when your in a "flight or flight" situation, unlike many other shooters. With the hunter class for example, you have a combat knife, throwing knives, grenade (depending upon type you are equipped with), and your "super ability" allowing you to blast your way out of a enemy mass, or course, when your combat meter fills up.
The game is not an easy one, this is definitely a game that provides a challenge, and it does it well. Each new area that you open provides a world that allows you roam around as you wish, fight as many enemies as you like, and do small missions to earn points. Each area scales up providing greater challenge for those who unlock them. I know that's probably a feature in most games, but I still think it's nifty. The raids and strikes also add an added challenge, again common to most MMOs', but the increased difficulty, and forcing you to use teamwork to accomplish goals is defiantly not a bad feature.
The issue with the game has most do with the DLC, story, and rating. The game went into development after Bungie left Microsoft and stopped developing the "Halo" franchise, but in all honesty, they should have stayed with them, and gave "Halo" to the new studio 343 Industries. Bungie unfortunately signed a deal to publish the game with major game developer Activision. The one thing to realize about some of the large game developers is that, they like to play to safe, put out something they know will sell, they don't like big risks. So with the deal in hand, "Destiny's" story was scaled back and modified to get a "T" rating, and the game would be released in parts as the initial release and DLC (in 3 parts). DLC has it's good and bad points, and has been around for longer than you may think (I'll go more in depth later); but in this case, it was a poor choice. Obviously for Activision, this good idea because it means extra revenue, but for the gamers, it means having to wait a year or two to play the full game. If you want to DLC properly, look at how Bethesda does it, that would have been a better way.
But the controversy surrounded the DLC was that supposedly the full game was already on the disk. Gamers would have to spend $60 on the game alone, and $20 or more on the additional content, which is already on the disk. That is unfair to gamers when in the past, you would get the full game with the full price. It's a very maniacal and dishonest tactic of making more money. This, I think most believe, was the actions of Activision creeping it's way into Bungie, telling them what to do. Bungie should developed the game under Microsoft, which, considering the history between the two, the later would have let Bungie develop the game how they choose.
There is also controversy surrounding the game's soundtrack composer, Martin O'Donnell; also known for the "Halo" soundtrack. The Controversy recently come to light (link below) , his departure from Bungie was not only with a falling out with the senior people of the company, but also seems to be Activision's creeping in once again. To put it in short, the linked article does better justice to explaining the issue, Activision stomped over the hard work of this artist, while the people whom he had worked for and helped build the company with seemingly abandoned him, eventually leading to his departure. A rather sad ending to a creative and successful career with Bungie.
However, once again looking at the brighter side of "Destiny", recently the DLC "The Taken King" was released, and it has much improved the game play. For one, the game now feels like it has an actual story and characters, not occasional light cut scenes and characters that seem non existent and undeveloped. Mechanically nothing had really changed in the combat system, but level systems have changed for the better. Light now measures your defense and attack, combing the scores of your armor and equipped weapons, meaning it can vary upon what your using and the upgrades on them. Players now also have a regular level system like on RPGs and MMOs, probably helping to level the learning curve for the game. Overall, the game is much better than it's release version, except I still Peter Dinklage as the voice of my robot, just saying.
I'll finish with this, "Destiny" is a good game, but take into consideration everything before you purchase it. Bungie hasn't treated it's fans nor the people who they work with the respect they deserve, and their continued partnership isn't going to allow them to make the games you would expect for such a highly regard game company. I enjoy playing "Destiny", especially with friends, but it's doubtful that I will buy a potential sequel, or at least not at full price. Again, it's one of those bad games that can good.
The problem with so many of the recent MMOs is that they promise a lot, but give you little; “Destiny” is only one in a long line of these games. But is it really as bad is people say it is? The glaring problems with the game are it’s lack of a compelling and “non-confusing” story line, issues with it’s lack features, such as player trading, “sparrow” racing (a vehicle that lets you travel around the map) among other missing features. However, what it lacks in features and story, it more than makes up for in gameplay; in a firefight, the mechanics feel like a blend of “Call of Duty”, “Halo”, and “Metroid Prime.” Mostly playing as a hunter class, mind you, I found mechanics fluid with the ability to attack multiple targets very quickly. This certainly is not a clunky and slow game, and with each upgrade you get, the more fluid your game play is. This is what will keep you invested in the game play more than the story, because, to be honest it's fun, and that's whats important. The combat system allows you to change between melee and gun, and gives you plenty of options when your in a "flight or flight" situation, unlike many other shooters. With the hunter class for example, you have a combat knife, throwing knives, grenade (depending upon type you are equipped with), and your "super ability" allowing you to blast your way out of a enemy mass, or course, when your combat meter fills up.
The game is not an easy one, this is definitely a game that provides a challenge, and it does it well. Each new area that you open provides a world that allows you roam around as you wish, fight as many enemies as you like, and do small missions to earn points. Each area scales up providing greater challenge for those who unlock them. I know that's probably a feature in most games, but I still think it's nifty. The raids and strikes also add an added challenge, again common to most MMOs', but the increased difficulty, and forcing you to use teamwork to accomplish goals is defiantly not a bad feature.
The issue with the game has most do with the DLC, story, and rating. The game went into development after Bungie left Microsoft and stopped developing the "Halo" franchise, but in all honesty, they should have stayed with them, and gave "Halo" to the new studio 343 Industries. Bungie unfortunately signed a deal to publish the game with major game developer Activision. The one thing to realize about some of the large game developers is that, they like to play to safe, put out something they know will sell, they don't like big risks. So with the deal in hand, "Destiny's" story was scaled back and modified to get a "T" rating, and the game would be released in parts as the initial release and DLC (in 3 parts). DLC has it's good and bad points, and has been around for longer than you may think (I'll go more in depth later); but in this case, it was a poor choice. Obviously for Activision, this good idea because it means extra revenue, but for the gamers, it means having to wait a year or two to play the full game. If you want to DLC properly, look at how Bethesda does it, that would have been a better way.
But the controversy surrounded the DLC was that supposedly the full game was already on the disk. Gamers would have to spend $60 on the game alone, and $20 or more on the additional content, which is already on the disk. That is unfair to gamers when in the past, you would get the full game with the full price. It's a very maniacal and dishonest tactic of making more money. This, I think most believe, was the actions of Activision creeping it's way into Bungie, telling them what to do. Bungie should developed the game under Microsoft, which, considering the history between the two, the later would have let Bungie develop the game how they choose.
There is also controversy surrounding the game's soundtrack composer, Martin O'Donnell; also known for the "Halo" soundtrack. The Controversy recently come to light (link below) , his departure from Bungie was not only with a falling out with the senior people of the company, but also seems to be Activision's creeping in once again. To put it in short, the linked article does better justice to explaining the issue, Activision stomped over the hard work of this artist, while the people whom he had worked for and helped build the company with seemingly abandoned him, eventually leading to his departure. A rather sad ending to a creative and successful career with Bungie.
However, once again looking at the brighter side of "Destiny", recently the DLC "The Taken King" was released, and it has much improved the game play. For one, the game now feels like it has an actual story and characters, not occasional light cut scenes and characters that seem non existent and undeveloped. Mechanically nothing had really changed in the combat system, but level systems have changed for the better. Light now measures your defense and attack, combing the scores of your armor and equipped weapons, meaning it can vary upon what your using and the upgrades on them. Players now also have a regular level system like on RPGs and MMOs, probably helping to level the learning curve for the game. Overall, the game is much better than it's release version, except I still Peter Dinklage as the voice of my robot, just saying.
I'll finish with this, "Destiny" is a good game, but take into consideration everything before you purchase it. Bungie hasn't treated it's fans nor the people who they work with the respect they deserve, and their continued partnership isn't going to allow them to make the games you would expect for such a highly regard game company. I enjoy playing "Destiny", especially with friends, but it's doubtful that I will buy a potential sequel, or at least not at full price. Again, it's one of those bad games that can good.
Quick Update
For the new, here is the new look for blog. Trying to give it a bit more of a modern look. Yeah, it is just using one of the templates from the "Blogger" editor, but I'm still learning how it works. But, there you are, more articles to follow in the near future.
Tuesday, January 5, 2016
Occupied
Getting almost no coverage by the mainstream media, rancers in protest have occupied a Federal building (unoccupied by the way) because the arrest of father and son ranchers who did a controlled burn on their land. They were charged with act of terrorism. It should be noted that government has been trying to take the land from these people.
Regardless of what their protest stood for, they have been labled terrorists ans white supremacists. I'm sure how ethnicity factors in to this (our race is human by the eay). We almost had to accpet people burning downtown Baltimore and occupying busy highways with Black Lives Matter; but these people are immediately vilified without question.
This is a double standard, only certain people are allowed to protest apparently. As a society, we need to look more deeply in why people protest, what are their motivations. The Constitution allows all of us to protest the government, not a select few, regardless of ethnicity. Something to think about.
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