#but maybe eventually i'll get it out of my system and just look cool most of the time instead of only occasionally when i'm not being dumb

[i-am-just-a-skeleton]

i am unfortunately psychically weak to giving myself haircuts i know i'll regret in the morning. cannot escape this

[letters-from-cutie]

The Scouts as Your College Boyfriends [Headcanon]

CHARACTERS: Eren, Armin, Jean, Connie, Erwin and Levi x gn!Reader (slighty spicy at the end)

If you like to see others, please tell me. I'll try this concept again for Levi, and maybe Eren/Jean too. I apologize for some scenarios being bigger than others. I'm Brazilian so I don't know how college works in other places, so don't mind if sounds different to you. English is not my first language.

˗ˏˋ EREN YEAGER ˎˊ˗

He seeks justice in all his lifetimes. So, I see him enrolling in law to be a prosecutor. He wants to get justice for victims. However, he may switch to criminal defense as he learns more about the system and life.

Besides law, he's also interested in social studies so he may change his course for that. I can also see him wanting a political job, especially after high school. He aspired to make the world a better place. But, as he gets older, he becomes more skeptical about that.

Studies aside, he is such a cool guy to hang out with. He goes to some parties but never lets his studies aside. On the contrary of his high school years, as a college student, he is dedicated enough to get very good grades, though he barely studies, what an icon.

He meets you after he picks a fight with your ex. You just ended things with him and is trying to avoid him around campus. But, you would eventually have to go through his class corridor one day.

And of course, he is there when you do. The guy wants to talk to you so badly and paint himself as innocent, but Eren won't let that happen, as he already has enough of him, because of his problematic commentaries during class.

Eren, wanting no trouble with his professor, stays calm and ignores your ex during class. But, now, as he sees your ex trying to force you to speak with him, Eren finds a chance to finally get back to him.

He calls him off right there, in the middle of the corridor, in a humiliating but smart way. Eren also offers to escort you away from him. You, always the revengeful (rightly so), accept his companion.

So Eren throws his arms around your shoulders and looks behind him to shoot that look (yk the one) towards the guy. And so your love story begins.

Congrats, you got the hottest guy in college. That comes with ups and downs, but mainly ups. Eren is absolutely devoted to his partner, you. In theory, there's nothing you should be afraid of.

He'll do anything for you and will protect you from everything that can harm you. If you have a problem with a member of your group project, ask him to resolve it, and he'll be happy to oblige.

The downside of being with Eren is that he gets girls and boys enamored with him all the time. But he pays them no mind.

Eren would never look to anyone other than you, so he gets annoyed when someone tries to hit on him, and probably has a good comeback to it. Though he understands if you get jealous, and will take you immediately to the bathroom to prove you wrong.

Expect to hang out a lot with Mikasa and Armin, as Eren asks you to go with him on most of their outings. Their hangouts are mostly calm. The trio enjoys exploring towns and new places. Therefore, you should be prepared to always check on new locations and have different experiences with them.

You'll always have a place in Mikasa and Armin's hearts, and it makes Eren even more in love with you when he sees how much you guys get along.

Lastly, expect him to be in your dorm a lot. He loves to cuddle with you at night, and you can't say no to his cute sleepy face, desiring you to untie his hair and play with it. And it's even harder to say no to his sexy morning voice.

It sends shivers down your spine every time he wakes you up, asking you to stay for some minutes and skip the first period of classes. How can you say no to him when you know that in his arms you'll have the time of your life?

˗ˏˋ ARMIN ARLET ˎˊ˗

Many people link him to marine biology because of his interest in the ocean, which I agree with, but comes from a different perspective. I see him being more into the concept of traveling and discovering new things than anything.

I imagine him wanting a job that lets him stay put but also change settings from time to time. Biology and marine biology are great for that if you desire to study, protect, and care for wild flora or fauna.

Also, he sounds to me like a guy who enjoys brain challenges, so a scientific field is something that would keep him engaged. He will pursue education further than most people would, as he enjoys learning new things and overall the academic field.

But, this also means that he's a big nerd. He does hang out with his friends, but he prefers to stay indoors, so he is more likely to attend these types of reunions.

Mikasa and Eren are his best friends. He also has other companions, so he's not the lonely type of nerd. He's just a smart, yet introverted guy.

He's such a booklover, so it makes sense for him to get a part-time job at his university's library. Armin quickly learns about how everything works and it's the best at the job they ever had. So if you need any help finding something, go after him.

That's how you met him. You like the library for its silence and academic atmosphere that keep you focused on your studies. Armin's shifts are when you're also free to study, so you always see him when you go there, and quickly get a crush on the blondie.

He is such a cute and polite guy. Armin always greets you when you arrive and get a book, but you're kinda insecure that he is just being polite, seeing how he also treats other students.

But one day, you find yourself needing a helping hand to find your books. So you take it as a chance to talk to Armin. Though he seems rather busy, surrounded by two students you think you've seen before.

Going back to the shelves, you find yourself looking for this specific book for quite some time, that is until you feel him behind you. In Armin's hands lays the exact book that you need. Before handing it to you, he says that he needs to doublecheck it quickly, and goes to the direction his friends were.

When he hands the book to you, you find a cute post-it on the first page. It has a motivational phrase, a drawn smiley face, and a number. You can thank Mikasa and Eren later for the push they did on Armin, cause that's how you meet your boyfriend.

Armin is such a sweetheart. He always checks up on you: if you have studied for your tests if you've done your assignments on time, if you have rested after so many classes...

This is his way of taking care of you, in the middle of his own busy student life. Also, you don't need calendars anymore, baby boy remembers everything you say to him.

He takes you to study dates, where you'll spend half an hour studying, half an hour making out, then repeat. He settles his dorm with warm lights and will help you if you ask, somehow he can understand your lessons even better than you at first read.

If you're in the artistic field or an overall very different field for him, the relationship becomes such a learning experience for him. He enjoys sitting down at night with you, while you show him your project that you just ended. He looks at you with those big blue eyes.

He is so tender and shows so much admiration that takes your breath away, and you need to recollect yourself to go back to your work. Then, he will proudly take you to bed. He'll show you how much he enjoys your work. To relax you after your hard work, a great oil massage and some sexy times will follow.

˗ˏˋ JEAN KIRSCHTEIN ˎˊ˗

Jean is most of us out of high school: lost. So it is not a surprise that he chooses business or managing courses, - very common and vast fields to study on. He doesn't know where he wants to work yet.

All he knows is that he enjoys the frat lifestyle shown in movies. Ironically, at the same time, he wants a romance of books and he needs a job.

So as time passes, he finds himself enjoying HR, which he plans his career around and pushes his studies further. For me, Jean is a great leader and cares a lot for others, so HR is perfect for him. Plus he looks amazing in a suit/working outfit (mine and his words).

Like I said, he first wanted to experience the frat life. During his first semester, all he does is party, even more than Connie and Sasha together.

It's funny because all he wants is love and to have some fun, but he is too young and was created in a world that directed him to pursue a fuckboy life.

The reality is that he is anything but a fuckboy, he cannot even go to bed with someone without catching feelings. After some time, he can't sustain this lifestyle. With so many rejections and bad grades, he desires to change. He wishes to be a person he can be proud of.

That is how he finds himself pursuing mentoring classes. It may be for his own subjects, calculus, or for his writing, whatever you feel like you'd teach him in this scenario.

At first, you thought it was a prank... One of the top fuckboys of your college is wanting your help?

In the first classes, you have to reprehend him on some of his attitudes, but he always listens to what you say. The way you treat him so well makes him fall for you, no one had such patience with him before. So, he starts to do everything and anything to entice you.

Expect flowers on your doorstep. Chocolates will somehow slip into your bag when you aren't looking. And when opening the books you use with him, you'll find post-its with corny pick-up lines. It's obvious he wants you.

You confront him one day and tell him to spend his dedication on studies instead of trying to get into your pants. Jean was being truthful, but at first, you don't believe he'd change like that.

He promises you that he is changing into a better version of himself, and asks you to go out with him if he gets a full score in all his subjects. That seemed so impossible that you accepted the deal.

Jean took it as a challenge, and soon enough, you found yourself on a park date with him. After he spent so many nights studying to get good grades, he deserves some fun right? He even got an internship! And so more dates follow.

As a lover, this man is your devote, and you're his god/dess. He never hangs out without you, I mean never, so you bet you're gonna be friends with his friends too. He goes to fewer parties once he starts dating you.

Jean now prefers more intimate hangouts with you and his friends. He loves movie dates, because it's a win-win for him, as he can get some fun far from campus and keep his hands all around you with no one looking funny at him.

He is very touchy, so expect him to want proximity with you and be very clingy, but he does the most adorable pout when you deny him that you can't resist. Also, being so close to you allows him to lower his head and whisper nasty things in your ear. Meanwhile, his hands "innocently" roam your body.

The asshole knows what he is doing. But don't worry, handling all the teasing is worth it once you get alone in a secluded place and he kneels before you, to treat you good this time.

˗ˏˋ CONNIE SPRINGER ˎˊ˗

I'm not quite sure about his major per se, partially because I think he would not be that enthusiastic about it either. But s4 Connie gives me engineering vibes, especially electrical engineering.

That being said, his main interest is sports and frat life. He's an active and extroverted guy who likes to have fun as much as he can and may go parting sometimes.

He hangs out with Sasha and Jean the most, and sometimes with the other 104th too, making a big and messy group. But I assure you, he is the funniest and most unhinged one, never letting the hangouts get boring. Connie is the life of the group together with his best friend Sasha.

Eventually, he gets a part-time job, and becomes such a hard worker! This is great since he's able to learn to be more responsible and serious when needed.

He meets you at a party. You're in a corner, using your phone. You don't care for the party, but it was your friend's birthday. So, you had to be there.

This little guy didn't even know your friend, but he needed to get his mind off work and his upcoming tests. Eventually, Connie found you by yourself and decided to interact. Connie is not the type to let someone be uncomfortable around, he wants everyone to have a good time.

So he goes after you and stays because you picked his interests, and you both have the time of your life, dancing and laughing from his attics. When it gets too late, he takes you to your home and you offer your phone number in exchange to catch up, and so it begins...

Dating him is never boring. Baby likes to make you laugh, and says that it is the cutest motivation for him to wake up in the morning. He'll get out of his class a bit early to wait outside of your class, he tells you he was bored, and it's true, but he mainly missed you.

He messages you during your classes, sending memes and photos of his friends making funny faces at his teacher, but somehow he never gets caught.

Connie goes to parties with you to show you off to his friends. No one (especially Jean) believes that he got you initially, but after some time with you, they see how much compatible you two are.

If you're tired or not in the mood for going out, he sits with you in the car, blasting nostalgic and cheerful loud music, as you go around campus. Expect lots of sonography while you're walking around.

When you're in his or your dorm, he likes to tell you all about his day, while you guys cook or do some chores together. If you're cooking, expect many food fights ending with cute flour kisses and apologies from him. Connie is not a fan of chores (unlike Levi) but he enjoys spending time with you, so that's a bonus.

Also, please, remind him to study for his exams! He gets forgetful about this kinda of stuff and may get lower grades because of it, or procrastinate if he finds it boring. However, do not study with him, he will not let you, and you'll get lower grades but it may be worth it for the laughs and the flirting.

Look out, or he'll take you to the bedroom as soon as he starts to check you out so focused, so sexy for him. And I'll have to tell you; after he treats you so well, you will not want to do anything other than be lost in him.

˗ˏˋ ERWIN SMITH ˎˊ˗

Of all of them, he's the most obvious to me. First of all, he desires to get multiple degrees during his life, as a curious and cultured guy. So depending on your age difference, you may meet him during his first, second, or even third degree. He thinks about being a professor too, like his dad, but being more of an activist too.

Erwin definitely gets some work inside the university, either as a mentor or helping the faculty. Therefore, he is spending most of his time there. That's how he knows almost everyone around college, or at least most faculty members and talented students.

He is commonly seen with his friends: Levi, Hanji, Nanaba, and Mike, doing plans for hangouts with them. They can range from a simple movie night to an elaborate weekend in a cabin in the mountains.

Usually, the fun hangouts, like parks and trials are planned by Hanji. The active ones are chosen by Mike or Nanaba, such as going out to bars or playing sports. And Levi says that he never wants to go, but he is there anyway. They walk around college together alluring this "veteran" aura, very cool.

For one semester, you'll see him with your favorite professor, Mr. Smith, who you need to talk with. Erwin just stands there, looking so classy and smart that you're intimidated at first. However, as soon as your professor sees you, he introduces you to Erwin, who takes an interest in the project you're developing.

With that, you discover that he's the professor's son, while the older man just looks at you both with a strange knowing look. Erwin offers to help you, with your project, but he probably can't due to his proximity to your professor. He knows that. Erwin is just using it as an excuse to ask for your number, and it works.

Erwin is such a good boyfriend and a gentleman. He always meets you before the morning classes with a warm cup of your favorite beverage. He's such a busy person, with all the classes he is attending, work, and projects, but somehow he always makes time for his friends and you.

Also, he loves planning dates and invites you to the hangouts he has with his friends. Prepare yourself for cute museum dates, and fancy dinners after he gets his salary of the month. He likes to spoil you.

He surprises you sometimes, asking to meet in a random campus location, and surprising you with a sweet picnic under the tree. Erwin states that he's making up for his busy day ahead, and you both sit in comfortable silence, enjoying each other's company and maybe a book. That is at least until you hear Hanji's greetings from afar, followed by Levi trailing behind them with a scowl.

Sometimes, you wonder if dating Erwin is a package that comes with his friends as extra. However, be assured that at the end of the day, you'll get your alone time with him behind the sheets. Erwin will make it up to you in a way that'll make you even forget that anyone else exists other than him.

˗ˏˋ LEVI ACKERMAN ˎˊ˗

This guy doesn't even know why he's here nor how he got here in the first place. I mean, he is such a flexible character, I can see him in many degrees but for this multiple headcanon I'll stick with just three.

Levi as a teacher would be so iconic. He may pursue education because he had good teachers before and believed that they helped him take things seriously and not go to "the bad side" of life.

I see him in law pursuing it to be a judge or prosecutor too, he wants to see "rats" (his words), going to jail and will be pleased to be the one putting them there.

Since criminology fits more his persona so well, I don't think I need to discuss it that much. I'll just state that detective/forensic Levi would be the best of his generation. So it definitely an option too.

Enough of flattering him. As a student, Levi terrifies his professors, why? you ask me. He walks into class, sits down, and almost never moves an inch. He does not talk or ask questions. At the end of the term, he'll get the highest scores. He even works in a respected office already! The professors' days are counted... Ah wait that was flattering again? Oh well...

Anyway, he is the scary dog of his group, I mean like those scary little dogs, not the big ones. Levi walks with people twice his side, who together know everyone in college, but he just sticks with the three of them.

It's with them that he passes his free time. It's funny because he may sound like a hater and says that they are glued to him. But it's actually the opposite, he is the one to look after their hangouts the most.

One thing about college Levi is that he loves his coffee and tea. He knows every café in town but doesn't really enjoys the college ones, like the one you've been transferred to.

He only goes there when there is no other option, and says that the coffee is cold and the tea always tastes like toilet water. That is why your coworkers prepare you mentally for the infamous day you'll get to serve him.

The day comes, and you're alone at the counter, you don't even realize that is The guy everyone was so scared about. You quietly hand him his thing, and he goes away just as quietly, and so it becomes a routine. One day he comes with his friends, who are throwing you looks every moment or so (it's just Hanji).

Eventually, they leave. When you go to clean their tables, you see a note on it, it's a number. It's not Levi who wrote it, but Hanji. He didn't allow them to give out his number so they gave theirs. Soon enough, you start to hang out with the group.

And being part of the group means being part of Levi's heart. Your relationship starts like that, evolving from friends, to fwb to lovers. However, Levi treats you like you're his for so long, and you're dumb to not notice (his words).

Expect him to always walk you home. Look at him and you'll see him already looking back at you, then acting as if he didn't. He'll fetch you drinks and food during class recess, and he'll do so much stuff a boyfriend would do to you.

Eventually, he does become your boyfriend. Like I said, Levi already treated you like you were his before it was official, but after it, it just becomes less subtle. He will only get enough sleep when you're in bed with him. Also, your place will be spotless, he says that you can't clean but it's just an excuse for him to do something back.

Levi will stay by your side as you complain about a messed up class you had. He allows you to cry on his neatly cleaned sweater about a failed test. He'll even buy you ice cream while you ramble about your group member who didn't do their job. And like Eren, if someone else were to blame for your stress or tears, he would do something about it.

He never expects you to do something back for him. You being here for him is enough, it's his main motivation for dealing with annoying college life every day.

But if you're really into rewarding him them we will not complain if you get in his lap and be good for him too. Oh, it may even become a competition, as you both pleasure each other for hours after a tiring and busy day.

Like/Reblog if you enjoyed reading it, and Follow for more AOT content 💖

[reign-life]

Y'know I was wondering if I should make this. But cringe culture is dead and the team seems to actually be trying so

Poppy Playtime Chapter 4 Gameplay Trailer Reaction/Analysis

First of all, I like Doey's jingle. It's short, but sounds realistic enough

And... has there been a swear in Poppy Playtime before? If not then holy shit an actual swear. Sure it's a tame one, but compared to the obvious kids farm bait of chapter 1, it seems like a good sign

Security Breach jokes aside(put a pin in that), why does it look like there's a bunch of the poppy gas? There being a bunch still lying around is believable, but I thought we'd see the last of that stuff with Catnap being impaled. But with how the toys apparently become part of the Prototype once he grabs them...

I like Harley's voice and the little eye animation. Realistic eyes are always creepy and the voice actor's doing great

Here's one of the spots from some of the images and Baba's trailer. Obvious puzzle is obvious(ding!). And I just noticed this, but that's possibly a new hand(could also be the purple one in strange lighting though)

Y'know tvs aren't cheap. Assuming this hallway(that does admittedly look cool) isn't something The Doctor made, I wonder how much of the budget got spent on this room alone. Maybe it's some security area?

Two things to address for this screenshot! First of all, what the fuck is that. I don't... think it's a human body? It doesn't seem rotted enough(assuming that's not bone) and this would be a questionable model. But it has one of the hands? Despite not having a grabpack? If the "the protag's not human" theory wasn't thoroughly squashed by now I could maybe say it's connected, but even the player needs an actual grabpack

Second: the caption. What do you mean the Prototype's working with Harley?? Maybe this is some manipulation(and not The Doctor's, you can't convince me Prototype would listen), but I can't see why he wouldn't just kill the dude. "They're both experiments" doesn't work, we saw what happened to that one former scientist. A security system could be useful, but would that really outweigh the cost of working with the dude who caused most of this suffering?

Yarnaby has claws. Neat!

This graffiti's certainly worth analyzing. It's clearly directed to the smiling/nightmare critters, which makes sense with how many of them are crawling around here. But who made this? The eyes could maybe be connected to Harley, but this is his domain and the toys are being shielded from them

Edit: it seems like Doey's made this and, by extension, his own safe haven for other toys. Not a good sign when combined with the hoard of minis, but hopefully they're unconnected

I have to wonder what this guy means(and who he is ig). There's vending machines that you could've used and... everyone's been down there for years. Food was gonna run out eventually and the only choice left is cannibalism(which they're clearly willing to do, nothing's stopping them). Sure Prototype's plan has a few flaws, but the starving thing doesn't seem to be entirely his and Harley's fault

Oh he is big. Bigger Bodies Initiative, I get it, but I assumed he'd be slightly smaller from his introduction trailer

...I will not make jokes. What I will do is notice that The Doctor's clearly got a body. Honestly kinda disappointing(not to mention confusing, but I'll talk about that more in a second). Him only being shown through tvs and other not-body electronics would've been cool

Kissy's alive! Yes! Ignoring Poppy's eyes seeming more bloody than normal, there's an unknown voice. Sure several of the voices are unknown, but this one is directly acknowledged as that. My theory is that it's the Prototype. Something about the way he says "mind" sounds different, added in

Okay remember that pin? Something about this situation screams "weeping angel" and feels really similar to the Glamrock Endos. But y'know what, the "inspiration vs theft and does that argument even apply" thing isn't new. So I'm just going to ask: what are the tv heads? They wouldn't be toys(I think?) and while the company is cruel, surely they're not stupid enough to give Harley a way to move around even more easily. Maybe these were made by the Prototype? He seems smart enough that it's possible

We finally get to see what role the nightmare critters play and it's... about what I expected. Which is a good thing! Their toy models are pretty cute and it's not surprising that they function the same as the mini smiling critters in chapter 3. But we also get to see two(only one in this screenshot) mini huggies. Which really does highlight that this area is a safe place and may lead to us seeing other types of small toys. I see where Catnap got the idea to watch over the minis

And more of the maybe-corpses. I don't think these are skeletons since one has an ear(you'd think the toys would've picked them clean...), but these just- aren't believable humans??

If there's any moment to reveal that Ollie's a traitor, this is gonna be it. Calling it now. Also 1. why are Kissy's injuries depicted like that(assuming it isn't something else). The toys bleed, this is just a fact. 2. what is that thing wrapped around her?? I assumed it was a sling or something, but her injured(?) arm is free to move around. It seems like it could be a bag or bandages, but the former doesn't make much sense and it looks a little too leathery to be the latter

Return of the Ollie and our first look at Pianosaurus in a trailer. The light in part of his mouth makes me curious. His keys seem to have distinct colors and looks more like an injury. Maybe he gets hurt at some point and that's what's on the inside?

Had to grab the transcript since these are Two captions and I have enough images here as is. Anyway, this is an interesting exchange and use of names(or lack thereof). I'm not sure who the first one is, but the second sounds a lot like Poppy. But shouldn't the captions have just said that? It could be a tape, since those captions don't label who's speaking. But they never explicitly hide it either. Something's up with this

And that's just how the information is presented to us. What's actually being said is a whole different discussion, but I have no clue where to start with this

Now to talk about Doey and the thumbnail for the video. This guy is directly stated(both on twitter and in the description) to be helping us and thank god. All the play-doh falling from the ceiling could maybe pass as creepy(I'll admit, my horror senses are kinda broken), but his actual appearance? I saw the thumbnail and was expecting the worst because even Poppy looks more unnerving than him. But as an ally and not a source of horror? I like him, his design is simple and neat. His first lines get the gist of his personality down(the "hiya there" possibly being what he was meant to be for the kids, while "follow me" is a more mature and real tone) and I can't wait to see what happens with him. As long as the scares involving him are kept to minimum

[incorrectelswordquotes]

Do you remember when the job progression quests had dialogue cutscenes and difficult quests? Each town had its own gear and you'd have to drop blue-background items to upgrade it. And it was character-specific too. Ice statues had to be crafted, and the ingredients would just pile up in your inventory. There was Unique equipment for every region you had a chance to drop after a boss battle, and it'd be shown in the chat. Plant Overlord's accessory was the top trending thing. Rena was blonde and did a flip when she double jumped. The first field introduced was the one between Hamel and Velder. The level cap was 40 and it was *hard* to get there.

I sure don't miss a lot of this stuff, but looking back, it feels like a wholly different game.

i played around when the game was still like this for the most part, except the level cap at the time was 70? and then over time it jumped to 90 but my middle-school/high-school ass couldn't keep up. actually, i remember seeing the new UI the game has for the health bars and that was already enough to throw me off. not that it looks bad, but i remember seeing this UI for the longest time:

vs this:

like as much as i miss the one i got acquainted with, this new one is a lot simpler and cleaner? yet it retains that cartoony vibe with the slanted bars so thats neat. and then there's THIS:

i'll admit i havent played during this era but man this looks busy af. it was simple yea, but something feels off about it. like i love the look here too but it kinda clashes colors-wise. there's not too much of a difference between the original UI and the one after it but i could tell it needed slimming down.

while i was gone i also learned that the previous privately-hosted server VoidEls was shut down but was eventually replaced by another, which is fair enough i guess.

"Each town had its own gear and you'd have to drop blue-background items to upgrade it. And it was character-specific too."

this was both cool and annoying, for me personally at least. it's cool in that every town having gear gave you a way to progress before getting even stronger gear. sort of like a jumping-off point for every town you got to as they handed you their own version of stuff you could use. and you could emulate their aesthetic by wearing their gear. the annoying part is that constantly switching gear means item management is necessary to prevent your inventory from maxing out, and not every item looked good on you. if you didn't have skins? tough luck. (my memory might be wrong here so please correct me if i messed something up)

"...job progression quests had dialogue cutscenes and difficult quests?"

THEY GOT RID OF THOSE!? maybe im jaded but as a writer, i liked seeing the player-characters' personal struggle as they progressed through a job-specific mission. those short cutscenes let us see what they're really like. even if some of the requirements really were trash. i still remember spamming the same dungeon over and over hoping for a quest drop (or multiple) so i can move on. but after hearing the story was consolidated to be one singular, linear path regardless of who you played, maybe they streamlined the job class progression system too?

update: yea it seems you still have to spam dungeons to upgrade to Master Class but it looks less tedious than before for previous class ranks.

"Plant Overlord's accessory was the top trending thing."

boss accessories were the bane of my existence so this makes sense. it seems like it's unobtainable, as many overworld zones and dungeons have since been removed based on what i just looked up

im assuming Plant Overlord isn't fightable anymore or only shows up in some elite zone now so rip

"Rena was blonde and did a flip when she double jumped."

i didn't know this. in fact when i checked her wiki page, the change was because her hair wasn't green enough despite her class art showing her as having green-hued hair.

speaking of the wiki,

holy fucking shit thats a lot of classes

[dracononite]

7, 19, and 22 for the ask game !!

sorry this is a long one

7. What are your favourite relationships between your OCs? (romantic or platonic!)

oh I love this question. I'll focus just on my main headworld Sparrowmage for this one since character relationships are the main focus of the story.

Ryuuji and Haru. there's a secret third character in this relationship, Jun'ichi, belonging to my girlfriend - the three end up in a polyamorous relationship (all dating each other) and Ryuuji is such a big gentle giant for Haru and she kinda teases him for it LOL. there's a lot of intricacy to the story outside of just their dating, but like. bisexual queen pulling two literal spirit boyfriends is kinda iconic. I could talk about these three all day.

speaking of Haru, she's also besties with Juji, who's friends with Jun and Ryuuji as well. they're the type of friends to do spontaneous silly things, go clothes shopping, buy snacks, talk about dramas and music, have sleepovers and do each other's nails. they are SO cute.

Benjamin and Iosefa are the two that started it all. from the beginning, Benjamin was the "main" character and Iosefa his eventual love interest. The two have a very interesting and nuanced dynamic that I'm still working out... It takes until years after they both graduate for them to get together, because Benjamin has commitment issues and Iosefa has confidence issues. But finding each other again, they both saw how much the other had grown, and the puppy love stage they were in at Sparrowmage quickly grows into an actual relationship.

I love these two wives, Olivine and Jiya. they still need a LOT of fleshing out, but already the dynamic is lovely. Olivine is a trans femme lesbian wyverntaur, and a magical beasts professor. Jiya is a butch lesbian beastfolk who also works at the same academy as a dueling instructor/referee. Olivine is like three times Jiya's size which is the cherry on top. I NEED to draw them together (and finalize Olivine's design oops..)

honorable mention: Reuben and Lucian. these two rich boys fucking haaaate each other they HATE each other. they feud at school. it's so funny.

19. What are some things that inspired your stories? Real events? Maybe a dream?

I mainly pull from various media for worldbuilding inspiration! any narratives are inspired by my life or stories I like.. in order to nail those down I'd probably have to write an essay, so here are some media inspirations:

Sparrowmage: Harry Potter (decided I'd make a magic world of my own, as I have a lot of childhood nostalgia for the first few movies, but... yeah), Pokemon Mystery Dungeon (some of the areas like the academy being on the edge of a big cliff, giant crystal caves, etc). this is the story I've most projected my life events and relationships into

Dungeon RPG (unnamed story/world, but technically an AU for my main sonas?? I guess): Dungeon Meshi, Sword Art Online (yea. I know. look the setting and aesthetics of the first season go fucking hard and that's all I care about). I wanted a classic dungeon RPG setting to make cool areas and monsters and boss battles for. and a whole class/equipment/mount/etc system. sighs dreamily. It's not started in earnest but we're getting there.

Magica Terra: definitely Avatar. the alien planet one. I wanted to create a unique combination of sapient bipedal species (some anthros like insectoids, giants, elf- and troll-like humanoids), megafauna (giant bug creatures, draconic animals, dinosaur-like animals combined with the first two, etc) and magic (the magic system for the planet is quite literally fueled by the cosmic bodies in the same solar system and in the galaxy.. which is actually Arp's Loop. so basically what time of the orbit you're born ties you to the magic of whatever cosmic body is closest / in the most power. this includes the planet's multiple moons, the solar system's sun, recurring comets, etc)

Arp's Loop: it's a space bounty adventure with eldritch horror undertones. Lilo & Stitch, Space Dandy, Interstellar and probably some Star Wars thrown in, just with the alien design though

22. What are all the “kinds” of writing/art you do? (short stories, poetry, screenplays, digital, painting, clay, etc.)

Digital art for business mostly, traditional for fun ONLY. I scrapbook, doodle, very rarely paint.. I don't do any 3d art, I don't have the finesse really. occasionally I'll write poetry on my phone. short stories and blurbs featuring my OCs. I've written chapters for single-player TTRPG challenges but I'm not good at sticking to long projects so those have all been abandoned. I've written quite a few short fanfics in my day. a mini comic here and there.... I'm good at small projects cause I like the thrill of setting up and starting new things. that's probably why I have so many headworlds at this point :')

[theaceofskulls]

Because I constantly get ads for it, have seen outlets actually speaking about it, keep getting codes from GW about it, and seen a couple YTers do sponsors for it, I figure I should mention my thoughts on Warhammer Tacticus.

Short summary, it's a hexgrid based strategy RPG game for mobile platforms where you run short missions to grind out for upgrading and unlocking characters.

So yes, it's a wallet hunter.

I'll say that it doesn't accomplish this with FOMO of the "you'll maybe never get this cool thing again" in the traditional way, more the "man, wouldn't this deal that won't last forever get you the cool thing you want right now", but honestly let's just open here and say that because it's primary purpose is to try and pull revenue from you, this game will always be about the psychological battle between you and it's monetization and that's honestly going to prevent me from every heartily recommending it no matter the quality of the actual gameplay and it's as far as you need to read if you're looking to know "Will this be my staple game?"

Now for those who want to continue and want to know how the game is and what the monetization is and why you'll bounce off it, we can continue.

The gameplay is actually fairly fun, tasking you to construct a team of various factions (sometimes limiting you to specific factions alone) to face different types of enemies.

Some missions are puzzles, some are stat checks, and some are more whacky ideas of smashing together simple mechanics to see what works.

The roster is well thought out and fun to see what they'll come up with, pulling a couple of well know named characters alongside a smattering of "best of the bunch", taking a unit from various groups and condensing them down to a single character.

You gather resources and gacha material that's used for upgrades and character unlocks (with a classic shard system where you can get tokens you can eventually cash in for characters or their upgrades), and it's mostly non-offensive. Standard gacha warnings but that's not the monetization method that actually will cause you to wage the war of wills. That's actually one of the paid solutions to said war.

Instead, it's a stamina system that basically meant after a few hours with the game, the average amount of gameplay you could get would be 15 minutes at most until you were forced to wait an hour or two before resuming, practically pushing you into a pay-to-play model.

Now, I play a bunch of F2P games as well as subscription MMOs and have no issue in theory with these as concepts and the idea of monetizing mobile games, but the practice ends up being this antagonistic relationship with the game as you can feel it needling you for micro-transactions.

Anyways, this is all a very polite way of me saying that Tacticus is a game that feels like it could've been worth playing, and I felt compelled, even in my small, mostly niche corner of the internet to speak up as I keep getting bombarded with ads to talk about it, especially because it's one of those games where you don't immediately feel like it's as predatory, with how much is available via gameplay.

Also it's just hilarious to see that the predatory monetization is like almost 15 years out of date and stolen from late 2000's facebook games even with the gacha system in the game. It's very much in line with 40k's in universe "we are using outdated stuff because we don't want to invent new things" approach.

[oh-my-may]

I FINISHED CHAPTER 11. *the final countdown starts playing in the back*

Nibel Region is beautiful. But lets talk story first.

Was eagerly awaiting meeting Vincent. The way there was painful tho. Listen: I love Cait Sith okay. Love his gameplay, his voice, his character. What they shouldn't have done is put him solo for most parts of this chapter, my patience was tested many a time during the whole manor. Hated the Abjudicator enemies. Did not have the patience when meeting them for the first time - i changed Cait's equipment like at least 5 times and then still died over and over again with just him in the party. Eventually did it the next day after a few tries. The Yin and Yang guy was also annoying the first few times - as I said, I was eagerly awaiting Vincent and the game just kept throwing annoying enemies at me 😭

Same with the puzzles. Took me very long to figure out how to use the throwing system with the boxes. Still struggled a lot after. THE ONE PART WHERE YOU HAVE TO HIT THE MOVING THING???? I was actually going insane. Was getting very frustrated and hated myself for it. I usually like the puzzles in Rebirth, but this section felt too long... Couldn't enjoy most of it. Did like the other boss fights tho. The abandoned experiment felt way too easy but ig I'm at the point of the game where all party members have a decent build so I feel like story bosses up until now have been quite alright to tackle. (Besides a few exceptions like Scarlet)

Vincent was very cool, what can I say. Took a billion screenshots (pictured below). Love how he went all out just bc Cloud touched his coffin... edgy ass. Him and Cait were somehow cute... we love us some coworkers.

Also poor Roche :( his fight was fun but I did see this coming. Had me thinking about Broden from Kalm, hope he is doing alright. I really can't wait to find out the whole story of the cloaked men... i remember in the first game I briefly thought Genesis might be one of them 😭 hope we get to see him during the last game maybe.

Other than that no other thoughts about the story this chapter... just Vincent. I'm just a girl what can I say.

Exploration wise I'm like halfway through Nibel. Took me a little bit to figure put how to get the dang chocobo (I thought we were supposes to distract the other ones, not bait the main one...) but their ability is SO FUN. Water feet farts.

Tried to beat Thorin several times but I couldn't do it even at lowest difficulty 😭 made it only as far as phase 2 where he splits the arena... idk if I'll succeed in getting him ngl.

Other than that I haven't done fiend intel, protorelic or npc quests (besides accidentally starting the one with the chocobo sage bc I stumbled across the farm). Looking forward to it all tho! Then it's time to tackle the last few chapters and then I can finally catch up with hsr ...

[dysfunkt1on]

Baked

And not in a good way, I mean the bread was tasty and I can't handle weed but this bread was pretty good. What I do mean though is that my nervous system was a train wreck today but I did manage to clean up my room enough so far. All of my clothes I couldn't care less about since it's all mens clothing that due to my situation I have no choice but to wear. I have no way to comfortably wear women's clothing and feel normal but I was able to get away with a women's jacket and some cute hats which I feel far more comfortable in despite my exhausting, nausea inducing boxy pants/shorts. Trapped in a family situation where being outed entirely to them specifically even though I'm out everywhere could be the end if it goes bad enough and my sick ass won't be able to survive out there. I have a gift card I could use for a clothing shop but what is the use when I can't even get anything I'm comfortable in and don't feel disgustingly awkward wearing? Being misgendered everywhere with only the occasional correct pronouns is really starting to rub up against my sanity. I don't even respond to sir or anything and I drop a million hints but people remain comically oblivious. The dysphoria about my head shape and hair type that doesn't even grown down is maddening enough, I have no choice when I go out but to cover the top of my head since physically I look like a gender based science experiment and people tend to have worse reactions to me if my whole head is exposed because the ugly gender uncanny valley effect seems to make even the most kind soul hate you for existing never mind my facial hair I can't safely get on permanently removing right now for various reasons.

I also put away my amp on my shelf as I've given up with my harsh noise project since I have such severe EMF sensitivity that I can't use it without getting deathly ill. All I have left is my writing project really and whatever hobby stuff I can do online on my radiation shielded computer that is also stuck in the stone age that I can't overburden either because the CPU radiation can also make me extremely ill. All of this combined with the above makes me feel like I'm locked out of human society altogether. I went to the store before as I got a drive and lost who I was with in the store and due to my nervous system going haywire today it was the most disorienting experience I had all week. People everywhere, could barely navigate around them all, brain too slow to process everything going on around me, but eventually I found them up front and was able to use them as some kind of anchor in what was going on around me so I didn't need to feel like some paper getting whipped around in the wind. I got some dough to make my own bread with and it was pretty good even though I shouldn't have made anything. The rest of the day I spent largely sitting around on tumblr and pacing around in discomfort. Later I gained back some ability to enjoy more music so I put that on for a while before I got the bread in the oven. Still listening right now to some random noise cassette I found on soulseek after briefly watching some of White Centipede Noise's podcast on Mallard Theory . Before this I was listening to some band called Pro-Death's album from 2010 that Jay from Circuit Wound was in. Not sure how I went down that trail of discogs bread crumbs tonight but it wasn't too bad. I sold an extra copy of that one on Rural Isolation Project from Circuit Wound to the record shop and it seems no one bought it yet. Wasn't my favorite and I though the other official CD release A Sudden Lapse in Concentration on Oxen was a lot better, they go way back though with cdr's and cassette releases that are all generally a noisy good time.

I have all day off tomorrow too and hopefully I do a bit better but I don't expect to be doing very much. Maybe I'll find some excuse to get driven to a cool store just to get out for a while since I really don't feel like doing anything else. I do have a gift card to a movie theater I might be able to use. I have no idea what is playing but if it looks remotely interesting that'll be fine to do later. Lately out the only thing besides making trips to the store I've been doing out is making excuses to go out for coffee and scratch off's which I really want to stop blowing money on out of the sheer boredom of living in this place and get back to building my noise CD collection at least. There isn't really even any shows on around anymore anywhere besides one with Killswitch headlining and Frozen Soul that I kinda wanna see and some other show with Static X and Dope at another venue but a bigger one. It won't be sit down though but it is at the one where they got noise complaints before so they probably all pussied out on the volume levels which every big venue show I been to in the past couple years has done ruining the show. The last show that blew my mind (and brains out) was whatever the shows name was with Aborted, Crown Magnetar, Sanguisoogabog, Dying Fetus, Suicide Silence, and Born of Osiris. I felt like I got hit by a bus and someone put my brain in a blender the next few days but see that was actually worth it while I get only slightly less fucked up at the underwhelming huge venue shows for less of a show and twice the money. If I'm going to get death by sound induced PEM it better destroy me. I swear the only band you could make out the songs from were was Suicide Silence because they have such painfully sharp sound live. Born of Osiris even just sounded like a wall of noise and Dying Fetus beat me to death with their amps.

[lastavenged]

Introduction as told by Red

❝ My name? Doesn't matter and if you must, just call me Red. Here's the story. I was born the youngest to seven other siblings and two.... unique.... parents. They were alright, you know bought us all up to be ambitious. Dad's a celebrity doctor, you know the type that appears on tv as an expert? Mom's an actress. Shakespare, stage plays, always the biggest prescene in the room. They've been divorced several times. It's always been a turblent affair between them. ❞

❝ My siblings? All wildly success. Some took after Mom, some took after Dad. Big business, this and that. One of my sister's has a fitness cult in Texas; you heard right, but we'll get to that and all the details about the rest of them later. Me, on the other hand? Not so much, much to Mother's disappointment. I have a day job, it pays the bills, fits my set of skills. Not ambitious enough for the family name, but I was an oddball. ❞

❝ Who I am in my day life doesn't matter, and I really don't want my family finding out it is ME whose up to what I am about to be up to. Secret identity and all. You've read about it in comics. ❞

❝ So who is me? Who's Red? Red's not an alias, not some hero name, it's a lack of name. I... wouldn't be doing this if I didn't get dragged into it and I don't know if I'll keep doing this, I.... I see injustice daily, so if I'm any good at this, maybe I'll keep it up. ❞

❝ I have talents, maybe call them powers. Sound mimicry, wind manipulation, really cool trick of knowing when someone's about to hit me, I can copy cat people. It's pretty good, since a natural born fighter I was not, except maybe these talents were always in me waiting to wake up. I wouldn't have the answers, I killed the thing with the answers. ❞

❝ Alright, Red, enough suspense; look I love exposition, my day job is mostly paperwork and research I love it; anyways. So on the eve of my 27th birthday, I was visited by.... I still don't really have a clue, but a little alien demon man-thing; who was looking for my closest sister, Vivian. See Viv and I look a lot alike, we aren't twins, she's a year older and was coming to tell her that our family was only three years shy of the prophecy of world destruction was upon that, that they were this close to becoming gods. ❞

❝ Apparently, my entire family is evil with special talents; used for manipulating the world or people, that's the gist. The prophecy goes something like "On the eve of the eighth child, that's me by the way, take her life and she will become the key to the universe and your family will become gods of the new world. Something like that, except, I'm the eighth child. I'm 27 now. That's three years from my birthday. My sister was suppose to be the messenger of some universe destroying prophecy my family was going to achieve. ❞

❝ The alien-demon man fucked up and when he realized that he just revealed a HUGE family secret to the eight child, the dud child... He attacked, I don't know if he was going to kill me, considering I'm a key or whatever... We got into a struggle, it was going really badly but ... Uh... I managed to kill him, I didn't want to. I was simply trying to get away, protect myself, scream bloody murder for anyone, someone. ❞

❝ His body fell limp on top of me and... he didn't look human, I didn't know what to do, who to call. My day job, I know some of the ins and outs of legal system; I'd probably be fine, I mean it was NOT human but that's also the trouble. Most traumatizing night of my life, but what I figure out later? That's gonna be more traumatizing, spoiler warning, sorry. ❞

❝ After he died... I killed him, holy shit, I killed someone even if it wasn't human, which am I even human? Is my family? I felt different like.... stronger, faster, I... My voice started changing, the air felt like something I could grasp, like I could pull on like reigns. I remembered everything I read, honestly, some of these talents made my day job easier. ❞

❝ Eventually the thing's body just... disappeared. So one problem solved, but the next was figuring out what the fuck, what the fuck, what the fuck... Does my family know? Does Vivi? Should I say somthing, I definitely shouldn't say anything. They... They wouldn't kill me on my thirth. I could be hallucinating this maybe, did I drink too much... Weeks pass, my talents I start being the little nerd I am and research, test, see the extent and limits. ❞

❝ I start getting ideas... I... you hear about people trying to be a hero, what if me? I mean... if I have these powers, what if it's real. What if I'm doome to die at thirty by the hands of my family so they can dominate all of mankind. So... I start trying things, little things. Comic book things. I need to start making a plan, because I think it's real, all of it, cause the next time I visit my sister Vivian... ❞

❝ She doesn't just run a fitness empire; it's an empire, it's a cult. She gets her high, commanding people, telling what to do with with their body, with how they look. She's a bad person. It's sick. It's disgusting and... I think she'd kill me when I turned thirty. What about the rest? ❞

❝ So I start digging, into my family, carefully. I've... I've already started trying to solve injustice problems on the West Coast, from San Francisco. Vigilante. Hit the news, or trying not to is the goal. The ability to change my voice has been helpful in protecting who I was. I don't want too much noise around me, but I start digging into my family and they are all bad people. I mean, they are rich, but... but they don't see people as people, they only see them as pawns, toys, dolls, tools, underlings. They are hiding things, definitely not US or UK legal things. ❞

❝ I have to stop them, without them knowing its me. Without... I may have to kill them, if... If I can't work out how to stop them, stop this prophecy. I have to assume they have powers too, or something; that they are dangerous and I am going to have to get good at being outnumbered, at fighting, and solving problems... and preparing myself, stopping them before I turn thirty and... worst happens. ❞

[the-blorb-system]

Omg the ghost town sounds like something jexyll described as how dormancy presents in his Sidesystem,, like, and he knows cause he is like the inducer and controller of Dormancy in his group- he's like the Gatekeeper out of all 16 members in his group, most are mostly dormant cause yay they're very dangerous :D

There's the trauma Holder Sidesystem,, we literally know nothing about them and we aren't allowed to check either cause they're so severe,, but I do know one of their members who went by the name 'Hexagon' talked with luna about smth a while ago....🤔.... I wonder what they chatted about considering ✨severely dangerous✨

Our innerworld is like... I can't access shit most of the time because frontsealed, but I have this cool technical ability i call a soul link that attach me to specific alters and I can see their innerworld or the area they're currently in (the soul bond is much more than just that), which present like a daydream to me (I'm very Dissociated at those moments).

But I do know about most areas from most places and most innerworld of each Sidesystem,, cause like I'm a cardinal vein here along with 2 others

There's the front room who looks like a theater,, then the area between Front and the innerworld where there's doors where each main system alter's room get connected to with a door,, then there's a Gatekeeper you need to pass,, then another one,, then there's a gatebridger to help you go back to your Sidesystem if you aren't from the main group,, then I think there's the higher-ups room where luna mostly stays.

Oh I've been in kasen's Dormancy laboratory once as well to meet my father when he still responded

- Digi

That's fascinating! /gen

Your system definitely functions a little differently from ours, but that's one of the biggest reasons I find plurality so interesting to study.

For us, dormancy isn't something we can really control. It happens more gradually and on its own, kind of like a once-active Tumblr blog might eventually kinda fizzle out then become inactive altogether. But every now and again if something relative enough pops up you might get... one or two new posts before it goes quiet again, ya know?

We also don't really have side-systems, as far as I'm aware, though I know a couple systems who very much do. I think the closest thing, technically, that we have to that is Four, who is a system within the system. But he's very much not separated from the rest of us in any way. In fact he's actually one of the most integrative alters in terms of inner-workings for the system.

Although we do have something kind of similar- we go through... sort of like phases of alters, if that makes sense. Currently, we're a little scattered, but just before that the most active alters were predominantly TMNT fictives. And before that the most active alters were mostly Linked Universe fictives. I'm not really certain about before that because I didn't discover the system until the transition between those two groups of fictives. It's just interesting to me because 5 years ago, I didn't even know rottmnt existed, so it would stand to reason that previous to Linked Universe we likely had groups of alters consisting of fictives from our most influential comfort-hyperfixations, one after another.

Exploring the inner world is also very strange for us. Maybe I'll need to ask for a more thorough definition of what being front-sealed means to you? I haven't seen it (I don't think) listed anywhere with common system terms, and I kind of just assumed it was like what we describe as being forever front-stuck for me.

What I do for the inner world is something I call "Inner World Projection" (or just "Projection"). I actually discovered it by accident. (It's kind of a fun story, actually! But given my habit of long writings (especially when put on the computer instead of my phone), I'll omit it this time XD)

Essentially, I can project a semi-corporeal version of myself to the inner world when I'm focused inward or in a meditative state. The more aligned I am with the concept of a body in the inner world, the more solidly I can interact with it. It's... surprisingly difficult to do.

At first I could only explore the Control Room (which is what we call the room that represents co-consciousness and the connection to Front), then the Forest. Shortly before I discovered the existence of the Ghost Town, I learned, actually... that my system as a whole, and especially the higher ups, don't really trust me very deeply, which is why I physically could not go beyond the Control Room or the Forest.

But! After learning that, Warriors, who sort of acts as the spokesperson between the higher ups and... the rest of us, decided he wanted to trust me and would advocate for me on my behalf, and shortly after I got access to the backyard!! Which was amazing! I got to see the pool, the lawn chairs, the deck, the playground, the yard... I even got to sit down with Amity and Luz as they were having lunch! I hadn't talked to either of them in so long!

Fun things 😄

-Lizzy

Good god, you are verbose... -Donnie

[seaside-coffeemilk]

Hi! So I saw your Horizon drawing of Patrick and he looks cool! So, I want your opinion on something, how will Patrick react to how Aloy is treated horribly by the Nora? I believe he would be very furious. Thank you!

Hi! Never thought I'd get to recieve my first ask so thanks for the comment! I sometimes wonder what it looks like to other people when I'm putting out ( content that caters to me ) horizon sketches, so it's glad to see someone likes it!

Gonna be honest, about the Nora's treatment of Aloy, what I remember is them shunning her, her outcast status making her childhood into one of isolation and loneliness. Tried to research for more information, but thats basically the info I got. If theres more to it feel to remind me.

---

Prior to this ask, I had thought about what would happen if he met Beta, but I haven't considered him meeting Aloy (the original gal).

Because of the abovementioned reason, I feel that I'm able to elaborate more on the Patrick-Beta relationship than the Patrick-Aloy relationship. But I'll try my best to give my thoughts on Patrick's feelings of Aloys treatment by the Nora.

(Writing (getting down the character's, well, character) isn't my strongest suite, and we only get a limited insight about the Alpha's personalities in the game, so I'm basing this off thoughts and vibes) :

---

I like to imagine upon waking up, he is shocked to find Elisabet's face staring back at him.

This made him (others as well) realize that the Lightkeeper project was actually activated, which reveals the terrifying aftermath caused by crucial parts of project zero dawn not getting the chance to work out as intended.

---

Upon further interaction with Aloy, they would eventually piece out ( from whatever Aloy's willing to share ) that Aloy's upbringing was... not an easy one.

I think, as more details were revealed, he would be horrified that a child would recieve such treatment growing up. Also taking the readon of her birth into consideration, him and the other alphas would probably be concerned for Aloy's sense of self / mental health (?).

Though initially Patrick might not seem to be the most approachable of all alphas (?), he and his team were in charge of managing child development in the cradles, after all.

Maybe the alphas would occasionally encourage Aloy or check up with her from time to time, and to remind her that she's not just an instrument in the grand process of fixing the world, or someone who has to strive to live up to her predecessor. Instead she has her own person and worth.

---

Still, I think, in the grand scheme of things, Patrick and the alphas would probably understand that the Nora's treatment of Aloy (as well as other problems of the world) stems from a lack of knowledge, from the eradication of Zero Dawn's education systems, so they might be trying their best to restore it.

---

I hope that answers (at least some of) your question! If there something I didn't answer feel free to throw another ask!

[prettyboypistol]

Mercs realizing they have a crush on the "new guy" (TF2 x Male!Reader)(non-merc reader)

Scout

No way in hell he has a crush on the new guy. Jeremy just thinks you're cool! Yeah!

He invites you to video game sessions and movie nights, really just anything that could be used as an excuse to be close to you.

"What's so gay about wanting to do paintball with the boys?"

"And then going to dinner, y'know, as bros."

"Then falling asleep in each others arms. The socks are ON ITS NOT GAY"

Jeremy, after what feels like forever, accepts that no, wanting to kiss the new guy isn't completely straight

He'd totally flirt with jokes, you know the ones like "ayo what if we fucked? jkjk... unless? NAH BROOOOO JKJK"

That man's ego would shoot up like a rocket when you confess to him. He'd be so scared and embarrassed as he freezes in place.

"Scout? You're redder than your shirt" "SHUT UP"

Your relationship dynamic doesn't really change. You and Scout built up such a good friendship that you both decided that "Why change what works?" Yeah, you're boyfriends and he loves when you call him that, but the base bromance never really faded. Saturdays are for the boys, so c'mon babe they're waiting on us.

Spy

oh fuck

OH FUCK

Spy isn't worried about liking another man, he's worried about LIKING another man.

He's romanced men before, but never for anything meaningful, yk?

But he can't just take his eyes off of you. The way you pour coffee. The way you reach up onto the top shelf and how your shirt rides up a little bit. He wants you and he wants you bad.

He's nicer to you on a base level compared to the other employees. He'll specifically ask you to go and get him things (coffee, the pack of cigarettes he left in the other room, etc.)

After weeks of agony, he realizes.

I'll just fuck him and get it out of my system

Spy turns on the charm to 11.

teasing.

flirting.

innuendos.

Yeah, he gets flack from the other mercs, but that doesn't matter to him.

If you confess before spy is able to fuck you, he'll panic. He'll cut himself off and scolding himself for getting too attached. No contact for a week. Hell, you don't even see him. Eventually, he confronts you face-to-face and apologizes for ghosting you.

If you confess after the fucking, he can't help but try and brush you off. But you know better. Even that mask can't hide how badly he wants to date you.

Spy lavishes you in gifts and treats you like the most precious thing in the universe. As soon as he accepts the fact that romance is there to stay, you suddenly start receiving bouquets of roses every week. He'd insist you learn French from him- mainly so you know what sweet nothings he murmurs in your ear. He's a tough nut to crack, but maybe the reward is worth it.

Engie

He assumed everyone thought you were cute tbh

like?? wym you don't find him cute???

He starts showing off his wares to you- like a hyperfixation.

Dell melts when he finally looks up at you, listening intently.

He eventually offers to let you visit his workshop to watch him work and just spend the evening with a beer and a buddy.

Dad Friend Energy is how he flirts

"So, you got anyone you like?"/"Got anyone special waiting for you at home?"/"So, man-to-man, what type of woman you like?"

If you mention that you like men(be it partially or gay), he won't comment on it.

As it goes on, you spend more time in Dell's workshop than on the clock.

If you get scolded by supervisors, Dell assures your bosses that you're helping him with weapons and testing of equipment.

Man will NOT confess. He will literally take it to his grave. He will spend years by your side as a best friend.

Oh the way he'd pick you up and spin you around if you ask him out. He's laughing and ecstatic. He feels like a 15 year old with a schoolboy crush all over again.

Dell would love spending time with you, no matter what. He loves when you call him "My love" or "My boyfriend". He's a sweetheart who legally cannot stop loving on you. He cooks you hot meals every night and pampers you on tough days. He's a really sweet guy with an even sweeter voice.

Soldier

The way you laughed and sweetly saluted him with a "yes sir!" as you went to get him a coffee made his heart S K I P

He'll find any way to get you to do that again.

"ANOTHER COFFEE, PRIVATE!" "Yes sir!"

You think it's a game/nickname between you two, and Jane can't help the way his head spins when you smile at him.

He starts 'rewarding' your services with breaks(AKA sitting down and enjoying coffee with him)

He's crazy, but you find it endearing.

Jane realizes that he's fraternizing with a lower rank and starts to get shyer.

"Sir? Are you alright?" "Fine, private. Dismissed"

You ask what's bothering him, and he's upfront. He's favoring you over his subordinates. You catch on to what he means.

You ask him out, not as private, but as a man. He praises your upfront pride and accepts. It's certainly a weird dynamic full of inexperience and America, but you wouldn't trade it for the world.

Sniper

Mundy would avoid your hot ass like the plague

unfortunately, you seem to be fucking everywhere, so Sniper has to put on his big boy pants and acknowledge your existence.

He already knew he was bi but like

c'mon dude

Sniper wants to hit on you so fucking bad

He starts questioning his abilities as a charismatic assassin. Where did it all go??? Is he losing his touch???

Sniper's nest is one day cleaned of all dirty coffee cups and trash. Sniper swoons.

You know how cats put dead things on your pillow as gifts? Hope you like random shit in your locker.

Spy is constantly teasing Sniper about his "little man crush" and telling you.

You find it endearing, if not surprising. You thought Sniper hated you!

Sniper takes the opportunity to sheepishly confess.

Mundy has some piss-poor attachment issues, but the assurance to the Australian cuddle bug is nice for both of you. If he doesn't initiate the affection, Mundy turns bright red and huffs. He's a good man, if not a little weird. A lot of your dates are hopped up on the roof of his camper looking at the stars.

Medic

Oh would you look at that Medic suddenly needs an assistant.

Really??? The medical assistant uniforms are slightly too tight??? He sure didn't notice.

He does notice.

Ludwig notices every time you turn around and reach to get things.

Medic is weirdly possessive over you

"Doctor, it's my job to do basic hospitality-" "Nein, I need you to clean my equipment while we're out."

As soon as you meet Archimedes, you don't mind staying in there.

You two become fast friends as you clean up blood from the operating table, talking shit and gossiping about co-workers. When Medic sees you petting his dove, he realizes he's in love.

German. Pet. Names. So so many. You don't hear him say your name anymore.

"Mr. Medic, your coat is soaked in blood. May I wash it for you?"

After that, Ludwig turns on the flirty doctor mode.

Those casual shoulder touches turn to moving you by your waist.

"Liebling, you've got blood on your face." "Oh! Thank for telling me, I'll get it" "No no, I've got it."

Ludwig would get all close and personal as he personally wipes the blood away.

Medic would be the one to confess first, but beg for it to be a secret relationship at first. He would eventually become more lax, but it's just for his comfort, y'know? He loves feeling you up in his medical room. Shut up Scout, you didn't see Medic smack his boyfriend's ass while operating on you. The bloodstain on his ass means nothing. He's a sucker for slowdancing with you.

Demoman

"Oh yeah, I ask all the new hires for drinks!"

ok he does, but that doesn't matter.

He tries to impress you and make you laugh with all of his stories and drunken misadventures. He'll invite you over to sleep the drunk off.

Best hangover cure of your damn life as soon as you wake up.

He totally calls you lad/laddie

Bonus points if you get flustered by it, then he'll do it in your ear "as a joke"

You know he's into you before he does. He told you when he was shitfaced multiple times.

Tavish is straight in the same way spaghetti is. Totally upright until you get it wet, be it in water or booze.

You like stories about Scotland??? You do now.

Tavish would force himself to ask you out to drinks romantically while sober. You decline and one-up him to dinner. He one-ups you to a movie and dinner. This continues for a while.

Tavish would try his best to be a good boyfriend. He really would. He's new to relationships in general, so you and him have a lot of work to do! Like a puppy, it is beautiful and adorable, but there will need to be some rules in place.

Pyro

You two are automatic besties now, whether you like it or not.

They're such a care bear about you. They grab things off high shelves for you, share meals, and even give you drawings!

tiny girl with big german shepherd energy

You two snuggle and watch TV together and basically become a couple without realizing.

Pyro thinks you're so cool and how great it is that you know how to cook for everyone.

They tried to cook for you, but in the end asked Engie for help.

You speak fluent Pyro and they speak fluent You, down to the very last eyetwitch.

They can and will NEVER forget your birthday, surprising you with a whole party just for you :>

Overall, you and Pyro are like a wholesome version of the Scout/Reader. Pillow forts, cooking/baking, movie nights, lovey-dovey all around! It's weirdly cute to everyone who sees you two together.

Heavy

FUCK

He thinks you're hot, but he knows he can't just say that!

He's really fuckin nervous but doesn't express it

To you he's the scary big Russian man that stares at you.

Little did you know that the reason he throws away his own napkins at dinner is because they're scribbled with flowery Russian poetry.

When he finally musters up the courage to send you a letter, he sends it to you as an anonymous writer.

Heavy loved watching you try and sus out who might have sent you the letter.

Eventually, you two lock eyes.

Heavy nods before looking away.

Ah. It all clicks then.

As you two spend time together, he introduces you to his favorite Russian literature and poetry. He loves explaining every detail he can to you. Especially when you lean against him as he went into detail.

Heavy and you can't help but be smitten for each other and be absolutely adorable together behind closed doors. In public, you two share looks from across the room and smile knowingly. Your little secret.

[quickdeaths]

Ah, they'd hurt her feelings. Tsubasa would do their best not to be too hard on themselves about it - they hadn't known, after all - but it still wasn't a position they wanted to be in. Still, better to have asked and gotten the rejecting of it up front. It worked out better for everyone for people to speak up about that kind of thing. The worst thing, from Tsubasa's perspective, was when someone was bothered by something but didn't want to cause a problem by saying anything, only to lose their cool much later. That sucked for everyone involved - the upset person who'd reached their breaking point, and the other person who'd feel like a jerk for having unwittingly bothered them for so long.

"Consider the request denied, then," Tsubasa said in an easy tone, as if it wasn't a big deal at all. "Dumped to the recycling bin, and then pushed out to the endless digital void further, just sustenance to be picked apart by the lingering spirits of ghosts in the machine." As a personal thing, Tsubasa tried to cultivate a reputation as someone who could handle the secrets or private thoughts of others. With everything they were, it was hypocritical not to take the feelings of others into account, and the last thing they wanted was for Sonia to feel awkward or upset.

"For the record, I appreciate you letting me know, Sonia-san," they added, hoping to dispel any lingering discomfort with a smile and a gentle voice. "Thanks for trusting me with your boundaries. Very cool of you." They'd try to offer her the same openness and vulnerability, but... They had a cool image to protect, so that didn't always make it easy. "I can't promise I'll come up with anything as cool as Madonna of Darkness, but I'll think of something, alright?"

Once they'd both finished their drinks, and Sonia seemed primed to move along, Tsubasa dropped their board to the ground and seamlessly returned to skating alongside her. Easy as breathing. "Conceal all your innermost thoughts that your gaze reveals, huh?" Right on the money, they thought. "Got in one, Sonia-san. The mysterious appeal and general hipness is a big part of my brand." They switched their stance a few times, giving the impression of almost dancing on the longboard before they settled into a comfortable position.

"But you know, it's all perspective." Sure, some people, like themselves, were simply naturally cool, but for most other people, it was just about what other people liked. "I think you're pretty cool yourself, Sonia-san. That kind of passion and knowledge about your hobbies?" They shrugged. "There's not a lot cooler than someone being hella into something." Besides, as they nodded along with Sonia's continued gushing about her friends, there was another point to be made. Cool people liked cool people, and it sounded like Sonia had lots of such people in her orbit. Tsubasa very much included.

As they passed through the front gates, Tsubasa mugged for the cameras, sticking their tongue out with their piercing visible before looking back to Sonia. "Yeah, well, I know what that's like, too. My..." They puffed out their cheeks and then shook their head, hopping off their skateboard and kicking it up into their hand as they neared the greens. "When I was built, one of my original system admins had a lot of plans for a perfect little girl, even when it was obvious that they didn't fit my directives. Sewing is the only program she installed that didn't get blocked and quarantined by the firewall eventually."

Maybe because, even though it was something she'd given them, it was something they could use to express themselves? Eh, or maybe not. Their circuitry was complex, but Tsubasa didn't consider their inner world to be so. They were a simple, uncomplicated person, and they liked it that way. "Huh, what would I suggest for you..." Tsubasa laughed lightly, rubbing at the back of their neck as they considered if she'd take their answer as too cheesy. "Well, I'd say whatever style you like best is the style for you, whether that's what you're wearing now or something else. The classy femme style suits you well, if you like it."

They clicked their tongue with another shrug, zipping open their bag and putting their board in as they walked. "But for something different? A Victorian gothic look would be striking, but not wildly out there, for you. A palette swap, basically. You'd probably look good in most things, though." She had a good figure, and a personal brightness. That counted for almost everything. "I bet a semi-casual punk look would look great, too. Give me a jacket you don't mind me cutting up or messing with, and a vibe you want, and I'll make you something cool as hell."

Well, that was a relief. Her new friend didn't have a care in the world for formalities, something that Sonia was the recipient of entirely too much of most of the time. They were important of course, but she didn't like when they distracted someone from who she was, focusing on only what she was. Sonia grinned in-between sips of tea: even if Tsubasa's programming was 'faulty' or 'busted,' she hardly minded.

Until, of course, Tsubasa had brought up in their own roundabout, Tsubasa-y way (she'd known the person for maybe twenty minutes and she'd coined the term) how they preferred nicknames to given names. It may have been a 'chill skater' tendency, but from the way the bright smile faded from her face, Sonia believed it to be anything but chill. Tsubasa meant well, she truly believed that, but it still didn't change how that word, that title, followed her no matter where she went: a ballroom or a classroom or even a skating park, she was always Princess. Princess first, Sonia second: duty before indulgence playing out every time someone addressed her. Not even thousands of kilometers, a sea, and a different native language could stop it.

"To be honest, I prefer not to have my title used unless I am working, or if my staff addresses me," She bit her lip before giving them her honest feelings on the subject. "I know for many women it is an affectionate term of endearment, but it means something entirely different to me. But! One of my classmates has created several pet names for me, including Dark Queen, She-Cat, and Madonna of Darkness, and I quite like all of them!"

Sonia neglected to explain that he was more than just a classmate: he was her ex-boyfriend who still remained her close and cherished friend, no matter how painful it was at times to be in his company. To see him move on with others in his romantic life. To be reminded how he'd only gotten a taste of what being involved with the Princess of Novoselic would entail and had admitted that he wanted something more for himself. Sonia couldn't blame Gundham for that: he had incredible skills and a caring heart that needed to be shared with the animals and people of the world, and not be referred to only as 'Princess Sonia's partner.'

"Perhaps you might wish to use something similar? Or even something quite silly!" She suggested helpfully. It didn't suit either of them if she remained dour, and therefore Sonia attempted to cheer herself up with possibilities and the last dregs of her tea. "I don't mind. Particularly when I don't need to be a princess." In the shade of some vending machines and a fellow schoolmate? That was the perfect time to set her royal duties aside. She chuckled at their reference to their sunglasses: yes, Tsubasa was a wonderful person already.

"I like sunglasses," She nodded, "They protect your eyes and conceal all of your innermost thoughts that your gaze reveals. But I think you're much cooler, Tsubasa-san, like super cool! Even if you don't like much anime: you are easy to talk to and are very athletic with your skating board. That's definitely hip!"

Something Sonia often was not. Her own interests fell squarely in the awkward category, if not disturbing, with the occasional 'acceptable' hobby here and there. The sorts she was allowed to bring up in conversations and interviews, and possess the necessary skills to boot if required. With her drink finished and the sun ducking behind some clouds, giving them a small respite from the early afternoon brightness and heat, she motioned for them to keep walking.

"Oh! If you like to dance and concerts, I shall invite you to my classmate's upcoming performance," Sonia exclaimed, "I haven't got a flyer in this handbag but after Mikan has seen to your injuries, I shall retrieve one for you. Mioda-san would be most excited to have such a cool person attend her show! I've personally never been to one of her larger concerts yet, but I visit the arcade on occasion with my best friend Nanami-san. Her skills with gaming are unlike anyone else's: she can defeat anything! Digitally, that is."

It made her heart swell, Sonia knew, when she could introduce friends to friends, creating new bonds and sharing new ideas. And Tsubasa seemed such an agreeable person that she had little doubt her classmates would take to them easily. "Those sound like such useful interests to have," Sonia mused, thinking about the only other person she knew who tinkered with machines: unlike him, Tsubasa didn't smell of oil and unwashed clothing, and didn't proclaim to the entire school that she was pure, perfect, and their future wife. This was a vast improvement, at least when it came to Sonia regarding their interest as a positive pursuit. "But needlework sounds especially handy! I'm terrible at embroidery myself: my mother tried to have me taught but everything I made turned out to be a mess. But you have a super cool style: what would you suggest for me, Tsubasa-san?"

They'd passed through the iron gates into the Academy just as Sonia inquired after what alternative style would suit the Ultimate Princess. The guard on duty raised an eyebrow at the pair of new, and unlikely, friends before turning his attention back to the video screens that lined the security booth.

[iturbide]

could you go into what you meant on tales of symphonia "redifining narratives in video games"? i love the game myself and would like to hear your thoughts on it, if you have the time :-)

Okay so I should probably add a little context to that: I first played Symphonia when I was, at best, 16 years old.

I didn't have that much experience with video games on the whole at that point, given that most of my gaming experience had been with Pokemon titles, starting on the GameBoy and eventually moving to the N64 (Stadium/2) and eventually GameCube (Colosseum). I'd played some Super Smash Bros. and Melee, but in general my gaming library was very small and focused on the one series I was most familiar with -- Pokemon (hence why I almost exclusively played as Pikachu).

At this point I can't remember exactly how I picked up Symphonia. I think by that point I was getting the GameInformer magazine, because I very clearly remember reading about Prince of Persia and thinking it sounded so cool but passing on it because I'd never played a game like that and didn't think I'd be any good at it (though I did pick it up eventually, and did fine). I know I thought it looked pretty, so maybe I just decided to try it out and see what happened.

After playing nothing but fighting games and the simple narratives Gen 1 and 2 were capable of managing on a GB/Color cartridge? Symphonia was a fucking revelation for me.

The fantasy world of Sylvarant was fascinating to explore. The revelation that the blessing of the Chosen is, in reality, a curse stripping them of their humanity blindsided me completely. Kratos' betrayal had me quite literally yelling at the screen in ways I never had before, and using the skills he'd taught me against him felt viciously satisfying. Learning about the parallel world of Tethe'alla and seeing how different it was from the Sylvarant we knew blew my mind. Plus, the combat system was so much fun: rather than a fixed turn-based system (Pokemon) or a platform-based roughly 2D one (SSB), Symphonia was 3D! You could run around the combat stage and come at enemies from multiple angles! The different skills were interesting, and being able to learn new ones by mastering old ones or combining them was fascinating -- plus the ability to set your allies to stick to different strategies, while still being able to micromanage in tight situations, was a level of control that I'd never experienced before.

To this day I look back on Tales of Symphonia -- a game that, I cannot stress enough, I never finished (school got in the way and I dropped it, and by the time I was free enough to pick it up again I had forgotten the control scheme and would have had to start over) -- as the game that showed me how much was possible in the medium. It led me to Skies of Arcadia, and Baten Kaitos, and eventually to Okami and so many others because of Symphonia. I might not have played Fire Emblem if I hadn't picked up Symphonia on what was effectively a whim. I owe a lot to Symphonia, and I have no doubt that I'll treasure it forever.

[cornylilguy]

Hiya! I'm trying to find an rp partner! Pls message me if you're interested in chatting about it.

About me: Hi, I'm Cherri, I'm 20 and go by they/them. I work part time right now and I will try to be as fast as possible when replying, but I do tire socially, so if I need a break I will let you know!

My style: Don't let my usage of shortened versions of words and general dumbness fool you; I'm semi-literate to novella when it comes to writing. I like being descriptive even in the most minute of details. What can I say? I love really getting into the guts of a world and it's characters! I'm a huge nerd when it comes to story analysis and character analysis, if that's not your thing exactly that's cool, but I am a big planner when it comes to this stuff, so if you aren't I may not be your cup of tea. Also I only work in third person, any other way just feels weird for me.

What I look for in a partner: Preferably someone who can match me in both enthusiasm of the world, the characters, writing length and style. And I know that can be a tall order for some, so if you can't write a whole five paragraphs and just stick to one, or maybe prefer first person; again it's fine but I will let you know if ultimately I'm not feeling it. Also pls be 18+ in case there is ever eventually nsfw, I don't generally feel comfortable if minors talk about those subjects with me considering my age, but I understand since I was a teen not too long ago that nsfw topics can come up in conversation. If you are a minor, please keep these subjects to a minimum.

Boundaries: I'm okay with a lot of dark topics, heavy gore, torture, horror elements, etc. Granted they aren't what I'm going for in the roleplays I'm pitching, but for future reference they are fine. I'm not looking for any smutty plotlines either. Eventually maybe one can be worked out for a different story, or even added eventually between characters in an rp, but I'm more interested in building up chemistry between characters. Also a big trigger for me is sexual assault or csa mentions or otherwise. Granted in some context it's not as bad, but as a general rule please avoid mentioning this as a part of a character.

Rp Ideas!

MHA: I would really love to do an ocxcanon or ocxoc with double ups. By this I mean either our OCs can date a canon character, or if the chemistry is good enough, then each other! But the basics of this rp is plopping our two OCs into this world, whether it be a foreign exchange student program, Isekai situation, or some other circumstance. The plot will be similar, but paced down, and will be more character driven instead of action driven, and exploring the social commentary of the universe. I know, nerd shit, but I do want to explore topics of inequality, idolism of celebrities, how society pushes people to extremism, stigma around mental illness, and a number of other topics. Oh and a critique of the capitalist system overall. We can discuss details on things in DMS, preferably over discord!

Fantasy Gothic School: This one is loosely based on Wednesday considering it takes place at a school for the occult. No characters from the show would be used however and all characters would be OCs. This one would also be more involved with mystery, world, and character building. Each of us trying to make and somewhat keep mysteries from each other and having control of up to three OCs if either of us wish. It's hard to explain without adding a wall of text, so I'll explain further if you express an interest in it!

Please dm me if you're interested, or interact with this post. Dming is easier for me so there's no mixed signals, and I promise I am pretty nice, if a little strange.

[mocacheezy]

Things that made watching Transformers (2007) easier and even enjoyable:

[note: B'verse gets the treatment that it gets by fandom for good reasons. There are tons of posts that dissect the bullshit of these movies far better than my second-language-english-non-american self could ever tackle, so I am not doing that, or plan on doing that. But if I decide that I'll get through every continuity of the franchise I will find a way to make it fun for myself. And so, this is my search for golden nuggets in these movies, because they did bring in new fans to the franchise and that's why we have other continuities that we might not have otherwise. Credit where it's due, and some positivity for those that did find B'verse at least amusing if nothing else. ]

🍴🥄🔪🍴🥄🔪🍴🥄🔪🍴🥄🔪🥄🔪🍴🥄🔪

Frenzy

Anytime Frenzy was on screen made me smile because his movements and personality were hilarious, he is just so expressive despite looking like someone super glued a bunch of knifes together. I wouldn't know it was Frenzy if I didn't go to the Wiki, but no matter that, he was funny and that's what matters.

The original Cybertronian robot modes

We don't see them for long, but the glimpses were glorious. Just look at Optimus

Gorgeous. What I wouldn't give to see the details up close. Maybe I'll go looking eventually, but this is just so nice.

We also get a "sexily rises from the pool" scene with Ironhide (probably unintentional and I am biased due to being a robofucker. In any case, very very nice and Cybertronians look so good as aliens)

"Excuse me, are you the Tooth Fairy?"

You see this kid?

This little girl was the only human I cared about in the movie until I saw just how badass Mikaela is, and how cool the military dude is. I don't like kids, but I would lay down my life for this girl.

This one scene just makes me think of what would happen if her parents showed up way earlier. Ironhide would be her guardian and it would be both adorable and hilarious because "Honey, you have to drive in a sentient alien that looks just like our car because the goverment men said so or there will be consequences and potential alien threats."

There are so many joke potentials there; the cultural barrier, the "I am the ine that is supposed to keep her safe" glaring contests, there is just so much shenanigans that could happen.

Also, tea party with the kid. Tea party with the kid.

Sam Witwicky actually reacts like an average human would when faced with the situations he finds himself in

Do I like Sam Witwicky? No, he is the kind of character that I would want to punch irl because of his personality and actions. He is disgusting. But watching him scamper and scream and stutter when faced with giant metal robot aliens that can squish him like a bug? Good, that was a beliavable reaction and I enjoyed it a great deal.

Megatron. Just, ✨Megatron✨

(the best screenshot of the few I could take while watching, no, I am not going back for a better one, he looks perfect like this)

I also laughted at how they kept him frozen like a popsicle. And not even well, like, they COULD'VE made an actual freezer and pop him in instead of using those couple of tubes just so he was displayed for all personell to gawk at. HE CRASHED IN THE ANTARCTIC!

The design looks so good, because it looks ALIEN and POINTY and AGH!!! The colors? There are no colors that would make him stand out, he looks like someone opened a cutlery drawer, mixed up what's inside, threw in some extra knifes for a good measure and then shook the whole thing until this guy materialized from the pile. It is both incredibly annoying and satisfying.

🔪

Mr. Welker did an amazing job with his voice, I don't know what the directions were, but oh man it sure sent shivers down my spine. That is the kind of voice that spells "You are going to die" and I already have my coffin picked out.

EDIT: SO APPARENTLY! IT WAS NOT WELKER THAT VOICED MEGATRON.

It was Hugo Weaving, and yes the man did am amazing job, but I apologize a million times, I was CERTAIN that THE OG VA OF MEGATRON WOULD ALSO HAVE VOICED MEGATRON. LIKE, OKAY BAY, OKAY!

🔪

LOOK AT THE AMOUNT OF ICE! With how quick he came back fully online once Frenzy turned off the freeze liquid tubes, I bet he was half awake through the whole thing. Systems just below idling or something, in any case, AGENTS YOU ARE SO DUMB! WHO WAS GIVING SUBPAR FUNDING TO THEM, THEY BETTER BE FIRED!

I also was glad that Sam refused to call him by the name the sector asigned to him, despite Megatron being in stasis. And that he insisted they use the correct name. Good job Sam, acknowledge the threat by the actual name and show respect to a fellow sentient lifeform. Even though said lifeform is hellbent on destruction of the universe and your world.

ALSO, AND I CANNOT STRESS THE LAUGHTER AND AMUSEMENT HERE; the sheer DISRESPECT! They don't disassemble Megatron's corpse. No, these idiots, these absolute morons decide to dump him into the ocean, letting him sink to the lowest possible point (not sure if they did say it was the M' Trench or not), where there are proper freezing temperatures - good! You're learning, good job!! - just... In full. Full corpse. What's left of him. Just blup! Down with the fishies he goes!

I understand that they probably didn't know how to approach Optimus about it, but... At least behead the guy. He came back ONCE, who is to say he won't come back again?! Safety precautions my dears.

They also completely disregard what a giant extraterrestrial metal alien rusting away on the bottom of the ocean could do to the ecosystem at large. Like, I find this incredibly amusing, because this ISN'T something most folks think about when watching a movie but we have giant squids down there. We have so much weird things down there, the ocean isn't even fully explored AND YOU WANT TO CHUCK AN ALIEN CORPSE DOWN THERE?!

Now the real question: is he a looker? *looks at the pictures* hmmmm, depends on if you like knifes. Like, really like knifes. Like really, really REALLY want to get it on with a fine assembly of kitchen knifes that were exposed to the elements but somehow haven't rusted away completely.

I think he's neat.

Needs a good long powerwash though. Preferrably with something to help the whole "I was frozen for more than 50 years and sprang back to action as soon as I woke up" thing that happened.

My man needs to take a moment and get his bearings, like dude. Please. You can conquer the world after some energon and slow system boot-up period. The strain on the systems my dude, you ain't young.

Also love that this "death" was probably reused in TFP because lord golly, do we love our faves ending up under the sea. (Though Megan took a much bigger fall, Bayverse WAS PLOPPED INTO THE WATER LIKE A NEWLY ACQUIRED FISH I CAN'T YOU GUYS I CAN'T!)

In short: I love the comedy of american military giving such disrespect to an Alien Warlord. These guys are really sealing their fate.

I loved the way they got the Witwicky family to be important to the plot

The whole "selling my great great grandpa's glasses on e-bay" thing gives us a very good self insert/OC/rewrite/movie AU potential. Don't like Sam and his disgustingness? Find a way to write a cousin or some far off relative or hell, even just someone who buys the glasses off e-bay and go wild with it!

Archibald was also clearly an inspiration for Isaac Sumdac as far as I can tell, what with both of them using Megatron as a means of helping technology advance.

Only difference being one of them lived and actually talked to Megatron after he came back online and the other got driven to madness and death due to the amount of information beamed into his brain. Isaac also acquired a space baby daughter, so the guy is absolutely luckier of the two.

Mikaela being fucking competent and badass throughout the movie, and not being just fanservice eyecandy

I could do without the fanservice, but her personality? I loved it. I loved that she wasn't crawling to Sam and wasn't being "hard to get". Which is also why I was very displeased at the very sudden "oh yeah, romance! She returns his feelings after he took her for a ride and let her vent her frustrations!". The movie is 2 hours long and they could throw in some moments where these two connect?

Welp, it is an action movie, boy gets girl no matter what, can't complain about the staple in the genre.

However, Mikaela x Optimus? Now THAT is something I considered as soon as the two locked eyes and interacted. Like, even taking my shipping goggles off, these two could have a very interesting dynamic and Mikaela could be a very good protagonist. I wonder what the movie would be like with her as the lead and Sam being the fucking moron she has to drag along with her.

BUT ALSO! Can we talk about the horrible, excruciating fact that her and Bumblebee drove around with Bee's damaged legs dragging over asphalt all the time he was shooting at 'Cons? There were sparks flying! SHE WAS DRIVING BACKWARDS! She took command of the situation and did what she could because Bee still wanted TO FIGHT!

Also, they way she beat up Frenzy? Gorgeous, I want to slap Sam's non-existent balls off for not atleast saying "thanks". The dude would be sliced thinner than cabbage if she wasn't there.

The millitary man we are supposed to care about because his wife gave birth while he was on duty and we see his baby three times in the whole movie, actually being a pretty awesome and well-written character

Look, personally, I was a little confused at the reason why we were seeing his wife and baby interacting/the scene where she thinks her husband is dead. Mostly because I don't like kids, so scenes like that, when I don't even know who the character is, have no impact at all. Him having a baby isn't going to make me like the guy more, unless I know his character. Him being absent because he's on duty doesn't mean he'll be a good dad (though he looks like the kind of man that will try his best, and I like that in a man). So seeing his wife and kid at the start of the movie seemed pointless to me.

BUT! FOCUSING ON THE POSITIVES HERE!

Lennox is a good character and whenever he was on screen I was invested in what is going to happen to him. He's the kind of action movie lead that would have me invested, despite my meh interest in mainly gun fight oriented action movies.

Essentially, loved the guy, would love to see more of him while also being able to tell what's happening on screen. Also the comedy scenes he was in were usually funny.

~

Okay so these are the things I like about the first movie! It was very long, had to watch it on 2,5x speed because it simultainously dragged while ALSO giving me too much information, but the moments like these and the way my imagination latched onto characters I liked made it watchable. It isn't a movie I'd use to introduce someone to the TF franchise, but it provided me with lots of material for my imagination to run wild.