#one sided experiences to associate ninja with loss

[basilibino]

Season 8 was like 6 years ago(I feel old) and I know ppl have differing opinions on the Mr Echo thing (but it was intended, made it to storyboard and blocked animation and then dropped, soooo) but. I can see his recruitment p easily tbh. Bc the whole reason Dr J was in that lighthouse was because he was resurrected, forced there, and ordered to build Skulkin vehicles by Samukai. But Samukai in the flashback we see has already been deposed as leader of the Skulkin/Underworld. Which means the orders to do so most likely came from Garmadon.

And since Mr. E is one of the head honchos, he's likely an early arrival to the team, so I don't think Harumi has a whole lot figured out at this point, she's just got her Trauma and some Bad Influence Friends and an obsession with Lord Garmadon. So. Like. Plausible deniability road trip that she's just visiting important markers of Ninjago's recent past, all of which involve Lord Garmadon in some meaningful way; its sightseeing, its cathartic, and it gives her time to develop her dream Motorcycle Gang/Resurrection Cult. She's not looking for anyone at the Lighthouse, but she is looking for vehicle blueprints so she can be the Koolest leader on the block. But oops she looks in the basement and there's an Echo.

And she's flipping out bc??? A Ninja???? In the Lighthouse basement??? I mean it makes sense that it would be this one but???

Except this rusty old robot has no idea what she's talking about with this Ninja stuff, he's just waiting for his dad to come back.

And Harumi pauses.

Because how long has he been waiting? He's not sure, he had no proper way to measure time in the basement, and he doesn't have the best view of his clockwork heartpiece. But it was after his father saw a strange ship docking; Echo was worried it was the People who had locked up his father in the first place, but instead his dad sounded happy when he saw whoever was out there. It could have been a front, though, as clearly it was never safe to let Echo back out. Then Dr J popped down briefly, while everyone above was resting, to tell Echo he was desperately needed elsewhere, that it wasn't safe to bring Echo, but that he'd be back in no time.

And the pieces are fitting together for Harumi. And she's like. Your dad's dead, bro.

And he's like. What? Did he die doing what was needed of him?

And she's like. Oh, no. He died a few years later.

And he's like. Why didn't he come back for me????

And she's like. Probably because they kept him away.

And he's like. Who's they?

And she's like. The Ninja I was talking about earlier.

And it surely can't be hard in universe to find pictures of Zane and Dr J post s2-pre s3, so she pulls one up and shows Echo who is freaking out bc why is that one kind of like him and Harumi explains that that was the droid his father created first, that he became a Ninja, and that hes probably the one who took their father away and kept echo waiting for years.

But Echo has doubts, shocked as he is abt a new older brother, he wants to believe the good in the situation so he's unsure. But Harumi mentions that the Ninja's failures to uphold more than their self preservation/interests has led to uncountable losses and devastation in Ninjago time and time again, before delving into her own story. And she seems so kind, and so hurt, and I do think there's a genuine connection btwn these two that forms from this shared emotional torment that they decide came from the Ninja, and now Echo is more receptive.

And then Harumi gets to start her Garmadon pitch because wait! If Echo was made here, then that could only have happened because of Lord Garmadon. And she reiterates that he's the reason she and her city could have even survived The Great Devourer. And maybe Echo's family-by-creation left, maybe they were untrustworthy and lacking, but that's OK bc if you look at it all a certain way, Garmadon is more of a father to Echo than Dr J was. And Echo is a vulnerable, overwhelmed mess who just found out his dad fucked off for years without him and also died, and also he has a brother??? Who their dad clearly seems to have favored??? Did they even know about Echo??? Did they delight in their life free of him???

Basically. Kinda Spinel-core but getting abandoned and left completely alone does that to you. Especially when the first person to find you after being abandoned is a deeply hurt and misguided teen who is probably kinda desperate for someone, anyone else to see the Ninja the way she sees them.

[nerdyenby]

@jalluzas-ferney asked me to elaborate on Sora and Arin having dragon and oni imagery respectively, it’s not my own observation but something I’ve seen tossed around a lot so I wanted to take a step back and start from the beginning

Sora

named herself after a dragon

has an elemental power, which come from dragons (I think, dragons have elemental powers, at the very least)

has great compassion and sympathy for dragons and always has, even from a young age

was taken advantage of by Imperium, used as a resource rather than a living thing, just like the dragons kept there

had that whole “we are all dragons” speech, which deserves its own bullet point methinks

is an engineer who’s whole passion is making things, and dragons are associated with creation

Arin

the oni are a mystery, nearly extinct and their history lost; Arin has many unanswered questions about his past, most importantly: what happened to his parents? He lost his family. He doesn’t know what happened to them or if they’re even still out there, just like we the audience have no clue what happened to the remaining oni

he lost everything and everyone he knew in the Merge, mourning what was lost while Sora found new opportunities. The oni are associated with destruction, and Arin feels the loss of the worlds that once were more keenly than any of our other main characters

after most of the oni died in the war against the dragons, the survivors fled to explore the other realms with the goal of conquering them. It is known that at least one of the oni did not attempt to follow through on this plan, instead “falling in love with the other worlds.” After Arin lost his family, he made the crossroads his home, exploring and embracing all the other cultures he encountered even before joining the ninja

while Arin is an absolute sweetheart, he also has a fair share of darker traits. He is a thoroughly good person, but is not above manipulation or violence. He also has an obsessive side (this is not me villainizing my boy, im just saying he’s shown to experience anger and a lack of regard for villain’s lives that we don’t see very often in ninjago)

his gi has horns

the oni notably do not have elemental powers, something that sets Arin apart from the rest of the main cast

[anime-by-kr]

Naruto Shippuden

Hey everyone! 🌟

We recently watched a selection of Naruto Shippuden episodes in class (162, 163, 168, 174, and 175), focusing on themes of mutually assured destruction, gaman, ganbaru, and the surprisingly conservative nature of the series. While Naruto often presents itself as a story about fighting for change, a closer look reveals a narrative that often prioritizes the preservation of the status quo, placing the onus of adaptation on those marginalized by society.

The concept of mutually assured destruction, typically associated with Cold War geopolitics, finds an interesting parallel in the ninja world. Episodes 162 and 163, featuring the Six Tails, show the devastating power of the Jinchuriki. The very existence of these individuals represents a delicate balance of power. The potential for immense destruction acts as a deterrent, reflecting the logic of nuclear deterrence. However, this also highlights the inherent instability of such a system, as seen in the manipulation and exploitation of Jinchuriki like Utakata. Their power becomes a source of fear and prejudice, further isolating them from society.

This ties into the ideas of gaman (enduring the seemingly unbearable) and ganbaru (persevering through hardship). While these concepts are often lauded as admirable qualities, in the context of Naruto, they can become tools for maintaining the established order. Consider Naruto's own journey. He embodies ganbaru through his relentless training and unflinching belief in himself. However, the narrative often frames his struggle as a personal one, about proving himself worthy of acceptance within the existing system, rather than challenging the system itself that ostracized him for being a Jinchuriki.

This is especially evident when considering the experiences of other Jinchuriki. While Naruto eventually finds acceptance, characters like Gaara and Utakata demonstrate the darker side of this dynamic. They are expected to gaman, to endure the prejudice and fear directed at them, to suppress their own pain and trauma for the sake of the village's stability. The burden of change is placed on their shoulders. They must learn to control their power, manage their emotions, and essentially "fix" themselves to fit into a world that rejects them.

Episodes 174 and 175, which deal with the aftermath of Pain's attack, reinforce this conservative undercurrent. The village, devastated by loss, tries to rebuild and return to normal. While the need for change is acknowledged, the focus remains on restoring existing power structures and hierarchies. The underlying issues that contributed to Pain's rise, the cycle of hatred and violence, are largely left unaddressed.

In conclusion, while Naruto Shippuden presents exciting action and inspiring moments of perseverance, it also carries a conservative message regarding social change. The series often suggests that individuals, especially the marginalized, must adapt and conform to existing social structures rather than challenge the systems that perpetuate their marginalization. While these concepts are often lauded as admirable qualities, in the context of Naruto, they can become tools for maintaining the established order.

[starseedfxofficial]

Master Price Action & Delta Neutral Strategies for Consistent Profits Master Price Action Trading & Delta Neutral Strategies: Uncover Hidden Opportunities What if I told you that there’s a secret sauce to trading success that doesn’t involve guessing market moves, consulting a crystal ball, or praying to the Forex gods? Today, we’re taking a deep dive into price action trading and how to pair it with delta neutral strategies—a combination that’s like mixing peanut butter and jelly, but for grown-ups who prefer to snack on steady profits. We’re talking ninja tactics that many traders overlook, mostly because they’re busy chasing shiny indicators and signals that promise unicorn-level returns. Price Action Trading: Read the Market Without the Crystal Ball If there’s one thing every trader has done, it’s that tragic over-reliance on fancy indicators. You know, the kind of chart that looks like it’s plotting spaghetti, right before you end up in a mess yourself. But price action? It’s the bare-bones, no-nonsense way of looking at the market—analyzing pure price movement on a naked chart. When it comes to price action, it’s like learning to read the market’s body language. Think of the market like that one friend who always wears their emotions on their sleeve—they can’t hide their mood. Candlestick formations, support and resistance levels, and breakouts are all signals the market gives away without even trying to hide them. Instead of slapping on twenty indicators and hoping something works, you watch the supply and demand zones as they evolve, focusing on how traders are reacting in real-time. You’re following what the pros do—not the noise that makes you feel like you’re stuck in a traffic jam of price spikes. The idea here? Read between the lines, and start reacting to what the market does, not what you wish it would do. The Hidden Gems of Price Action: Stop Chasing, Start Flowing Price action is all about simplicity. Less clutter, more clarity. When you spot a breakout at a key resistance level with no major barriers in sight—that’s your cue. It’s like finally seeing an empty lane at the grocery checkout—you’re diving right in, my friend. One little-known technique is to wait for a retest after the breakout. Most traders get FOMO and jump in right at the breakout, which, honestly, feels a lot like when you get into a subway car right before the door slams shut—not always a smooth experience. Instead, the retest gives you a safer entry point, like double-checking there are no toddlers in front of your cart before pushing off. Another great move? Looking for fakeouts at support or resistance levels. Fakeouts are the market’s way of playing mind games—and being able to spot them saves you from a lot of unnecessary losses. A simple tip is to wait until a candle actually closes above or below a key level before you commit. This way, you avoid being the trader who panics at every slight breeze in the market. Delta Neutral Strategies: The Art of Balancing Risk Let’s move on to delta neutral strategies, which are like the ultimate safety net in your trading arsenal. Picture this: you’re on a tightrope, and each side of the market is pulling at you. A delta neutral approach allows you to balance that risk without leaning too much to either side—like that magic yoga move that makes you feel invincible because you’re somehow not falling over. Delta neutral trading is typically used to minimize the risk associated with price fluctuations. In the Forex world, that means you’re taking positions in such a way that small market swings don’t affect you as much. This is particularly useful in volatile markets where moves come fast and furious, often leaving traders staring in shock like they just walked into a surprise party they weren’t ready for. The Hidden Formula to Delta Neutral Creating a delta neutral position in Forex involves hedging a long position in one currency pair with a short position in another correlated pair. For instance, if you have a long position in EUR/USD, you might hedge with a short position in GBP/USD. This reduces your overall exposure to unpredictable market shifts—allowing you to sleep at night instead of checking your phone every ten minutes. But here's the key: correlation matters. You don’t just pick any random pair to hedge against—you need to find pairs that historically move together. Websites like OANDA's correlation tool can give you insights into currency pair correlations, and once you’ve spotted a strong correlation, you can set up positions that help you stay delta neutral. Why Most Traders Miss Out On Delta Neutral Opportunities The main reason traders shy away from delta neutral strategies is the perceived complexity. Let’s be real—the word "delta" alone is enough to scare most people away. But what if I told you it’s not much harder than balancing a budget after an impulse-buy spree? It’s all about risk mitigation. Instead of relying purely on direction, you’re hedging your positions to profit from market inefficiencies or collecting positive swaps. Imagine if you could make money while the market did absolutely nothing—that’s what delta neutral strategies let you do. It’s not about getting rich overnight, it’s about steady, calculated gains. The Yin-Yang of Trading: Combining Price Action with Delta Neutral Alright, so how do you bring price action and delta neutral together in one beautiful, profit-generating symphony? The key is to use price action as your guide for entering trades while delta neutral techniques help hedge your risk and maintain a balanced portfolio. Let’s break this down. Say you identify a breakout using price action trading—you spot the pattern, confirm with volume, and enter. Instead of going all in with risk unchecked, you hedge a portion of your exposure by setting up a delta neutral position with a correlated pair. This allows you to be aggressively cautious (yes, that’s a real thing). Think of it like eating dessert while on a diet—you’re enjoying the sweet side of trading but making sure you’re not piling on unwanted risks. Moreover, delta neutral strategies are great for times when the market looks indecisive or is trapped in a range. If your price action analysis suggests consolidation, being delta neutral can help you stay active in the market without betting on direction. It’s like keeping your toes in the pool—just in case you want to dive in when conditions improve. Case Study: How the Pros Leveraged Delta Neutral with Price Action In May 2023, during heightened market volatility between the USD and JPY, seasoned trader Lisa H. identified a major support level using price action. She went long on USD/JPY but also noticed strong correlation data showing USD strength against the GBP. To manage her risk, she opened a delta neutral short position on GBP/USD. The result? When USD moved up, her profits on USD/JPY covered the small losses on GBP/USD, and when the market retraced, she avoided a major loss thanks to her hedge. In the end, she ended up with a net gain from both positions. Lisa’s use of price action and delta neutral tactics allowed her to exploit the opportunity without putting her portfolio at risk. Turning These Insights Into Action: Ninja-Level Tactics Here are the main takeaways that you can use to enhance your own trading strategy: - Wait for Retests: Patience is key. Breakouts often retest old support/resistance before continuing. Make this your entry. - Spot Fakeouts: Always wait for candle closures to confirm breakouts or breakdowns. - Leverage Delta Neutral Strategies: Use correlated pairs to hedge your positions, reducing risk exposure and helping you profit even in sideways markets. - Balance Price Action with Protection: Combine the clarity of price action with the security of delta neutral positioning to trade confidently, even during high volatility. For those wanting to take their Forex game to the next level, check out our StarseedFX Community. You’ll get access to exclusive live analysis, daily alerts, and, of course, the kind of ninja-level tactics that make trading not only profitable but also enjoyable. And don’t forget—if you’re serious about becoming a well-rounded trader, download our free trading plan and trading journal to track and refine your strategy like a pro. Visit StarseedFX Trading Plan for more details. Wrapping It Up: Becoming a Delta Neutral Price Action Master Mastering price action trading is about reading the market for what it is, not what you want it to be. Combining that skill with delta neutral strategies helps you balance risk and stay in the game, even when market conditions are challenging. It’s about playing both offense and defense like a champion—aggressive yet cautious, strategic yet adaptable. —————– Image Credits: Cover image at the top is AI-generated Read the full article

[gofancyninjaworld]

OPM manga chapter 119 Review: A Conspiracy?

Buckle up, this review gets long.  I was away on family business for a few days so I missed this one’s drop.  It’s meant though that I’ve had longer to ponder my thoughts. 

Core take away for me is that like Hellfire Flame and Gale Wind trying to recruit Sonic set us up to better understand the Ninja arc when it showed up in the webcomic, this ‘glimpse behind the scenes’ at the conspiracies brewing sight unseen is foundation for what will burst into the open later, apparently from nowhere. 

Anyway, onto the review.  Much more under the cut.  First though, One-Shotter is still alive!  Looks like his mechanised parts are much more extensive than initially appeared. 

I tell you, it doesn’t pay to be a cyborg hero in OPM. It’s just inviting gratuitous cruelty into your life.

Soon Gets Sooner

This chapter, I honestly expected Drive Knight to just leave with Nyan and stay the international Cyborg of Mystery he'd been to date.  But he stuck around to talk to Sekingar and what we got was a glimpse indeed to the mystery plot that has been brewing from the very start.

We find out just why Drive Knight has a 100% win record: he never, ever fights unless he has carefully studied and formulated an excellent battle plan. Even if it means sacrificing his fellow heroes like pawns.  

And then things get weird. After offering data on the strong monsters in the MA, Drive Knight changes the subject to asking Sekingar about the state of the Hero Association, being very interested in just which capable heroes were left available to respond and whether or not Blast was likely to attend if the Hero Association were attacked.  And then Drive Knight went into full tin-foil hat conspiracy mode, painting the loss of the Metal Knight as a deliberate action by Dr Bofoi to gift the Monster Association with the way to take out the Hero Association.

When Sekingar spoke of not expecting the support heroes to carry out their mission without injury, I’m sure he couldn’t have imagined ending up a casualty.  When he tries to call the Hero Association to check, none other than G5 shows up to shoot his hand off.  As G5 approaches, Drive Knight makes no move to either attack G5, claiming lack of power, nor to protect Sekingar.  Even in extremis though,  Sekingar is still thinking about the support team, the hostage, and what action he could yet take.  Truly, a hero is being forged before our eyes.  He just has to survive the experience.

‘Why not me?’ That’s the central question heroes ask themselves.

Fee, Fi, Do, Fum, Cinderella's At The Ball

We'd seen Garou, who I'd dubbed Sleeping Beauty awaken from his unconsciousness. With a roar, he pummelled PPP into the ground.

Cyborg Cinderella, whom we'd left vacuuming and washing dishes while the others went ahead, may be attending the ball late, but his entrance was no less spectacular. With timing worthy of Saitama himself, just in time, one mighty kick all but split G5 in half, arriving so fast the robot barely had time to register his presence.  It's interesting what summoned him; Saitama's punch may have gotten his attention, but it was G5's energy signature that really got him on scene.

Insane kicks, flips -- and upgrades

Kuseno magic extends to clothes: the last time he used Jet Drive Arrow, he ended up naked. Now Genos isn't just very fashionably dressed, but his raiments are fire-resistant and wonderfully form-hugging.  Until the clock strikes twelve (or ten in his case), he is here to cut some terrifying shapes.

And now all the pieces are in play.

The chapter ends suddenly and ominously.  On one side, we have Genos asking, looking about as cunning as a newborn lamb, what’s going on: 

On the other, if it’s possible for an expressionless face to look unamused, then the very cunning Drive Knight looks most unamused:

Meta: “The enemy of my enemy is my enemy's enemy. No more. No less.”  

 -- from the webcomic ‘Schlock Mercenary’ (more here)

I’d wondered why ONE had split Genos off from the rest, in difference to the was he’d gone together with the rest in the webcomic.  It was definite that ONE intended to test Genos in a situation where he had no support, bu the potential for him to discover something new and relevant to his quest is the last thing I expected. 

A peek behind the scenes indeed!  Where from and why Genos came to fetch up at Saitama’s door in chapter 7, telling a tale of evil cyborgs and total extermination, we know not.  It’s seemed increasingly far-fetched as nearly nothing happened with that storyline and the monsters we meet have nothing to do with the sort of intelligences behind any such cyborg.  It’s led to some, too many, fans claiming that in that absence the ‘mad’ cyborg must be Genos himself  -- in a twist of logic too stupid for real life  [Then again, the typical SF story seems to be written by an individual who never met an actual human being...].  I don’t know about the veracity of 90% of what Drive Knight said, but there is a conspiracy indeed. 

So, now we get to understand a bit more about Drive Knight. It’s something I’ve long wondered about:

The thing about Drive Knight is that he hasn't told us who he is yet. At present, he's a blank slate for whom many alignments are possible without betraying who he is. He could be entirely a hero, just acting in ways that are more independent than most would appreciate. He could be a member of The Organization, acting as a mole in the Hero Association. He could be an entirely amoral person, aligning himself to one group or another as suits his goals and all would be consistent with what we don't know about him. Once he declares who he is, we'll be down to many fewer possibilities.  -- myself, Reddit post   

“Everything that can be used must be used.”  With that, Drive Knight has finally told us who he is.   He is highly calculating and will use anything he can to achieve his ends.  At the expense of anyone and anything. 

What to make of all of this? One thing we can be certain of. Drive Knight really hates Bofoi, considers him a threat and reads the worst possible motives into his actions. He wastes no time in trying to sew suspicion about Bofoi whenever possible.   Why?  We don’t know. 

At its most benign, Drive Knight may be like Zombieman and the House of Evolution, seeing evil in Metal Knight and a grand conspiracy where none actually exists.   A less benign possibility is that Drive Knight may be projecting his ambitions onto Metal Knight and describing what he fears Metal Knight has in possession in order to thwart them (whoever ‘them’ is). 

Since we as readers have a quasi-omniscient view of the story, we know that quite a lot of what Drive Knight said about Metal Knight is factually wrong.  We know that he is wrong bout the circumstances under which Bofoi lost the Metal Knight.  We know that he is wrong about its fate.  We know most of all that he is absolutely wrong about Bofoi wanting the capable heroes scattered or defeated.  Dr. Bofoi has been furious with the Hero Association executives for risking the lives of any heroes raiding the Monster Association precisely because he feared what might happen if the ranks of the heroes were thinned. 

Interesting that G5 is definitely its own entity!  Once I realised that the tactical transformations formed around Drive Knight, I’d started to entertain the possibility that the two of them were the same.  That said...

I could well understand Drive Knight having done his own work to understand the nature of the strong monsters actually in the Monster Association base.  However, there is one piece of information G5 has that it could not have reasonably obtained without Drive Knight sharing it. 

When they ran off a second time, they ran off separately.   More pertinently, there’s no reason for G5 to show Sekingar this information: it puts psychological pressure on him, but if G5 just wants to kill him, there’s no point to it.  Instead, Drive Knight drawing attention to the support team and G5 drawing attention to the hostage act as a double-team interrogation to see if Sekingar has some way yet of reaching Blast in time of most extreme need. 

We’ve also learned that Blast is all but retired. It falls into line with what we've gleaned from the webcomic and suggests that he's quite old.

He's just a poor boy from a poor family: spare him his life!  (and limbs)

Dr Kuseno's occasionally prodding Genos to not forget his primary task of finding the 'mad' cyborg, as well as his warning not to fight it alone both make great sense.   In OPM, you get good at what you actually  practice.  Fighting monsters as a hero has been very useful for Genos developing raw fighting prowess. It has done nothing to prepare him to face the cruel, conniving, and creative people that the not-quite-mad cyborg and those behind him are.  Watching Genos ask straightforwardly what the situation and contrasting it to Drive Knight's complicated narrative was to realise how painfully naive Genos is. 

It's all very well to counsel non-engagement, but you deal with the monster before you: situations aren't neat and don't wait until you feel prepared. I'd hoped for another conversation between Genos and Drive Knight but this looks far more dangerous.  I've no doubt that Genos won't die, but his participation in this battle could be VERY short.

So many ways this story could wend.  A few that come to mind:

The most tragic:Drive Knight convinces Genos of his predicament, perhaps offering data on the cadres as a sweetener and Genos escorts him and the fallen heroes out of the war zone.  As soon as Drive Knight is sure Genos is safely underground, he'll kill Sekingar... and probably the support heroes into the bargain. If he burns them, the only fire-wielder known is Genos.  If he's really clever, catching up with Waganma and Food Battler, dragging them back and burning them too creates a compelling narrative of Genos (already suspected of colluding with the monsters) waylaying the support heroes as they tried to retreat and killing them all.  Drive Knight can show up at the Hero Association and continue his activities. No witnesses, a convenient scapegoat, and near total freedom to carry on his agenda.

Mortal combat. No matter what changes to the webcomic ONE has planned, Genos isn't about to get killed, so Drive Knight is either going to have to run for it or else get killed. Knowing who Drive Knight is, there is no possibility that he would defeat Genos and leave the latter alive -- even if he were that careless, Genos announcing that any enemy that gives him trouble will find that he comes back very quickly and very much stronger would put paid to that. (yes, he’s so naive!)    Either way, Drive Knight won't be working as a hero any longer.   For Genos, victory is likely to be expensive -- he runs the risk of sustaining critical damage, which will force him to retreat, or of wasting precious, precious energy that he could really use later.   Very interesting repercussions will definitely follow.

Hit him in the heroism. Drive Knight could use the heroes and Sekingar as hostages and get Genos to allow him to leave unmolested. He won't be coming back to the HA but it looks like he knows all he needs to. Genos won't like it, but as a person who has long established his willingness to take incredible punishment to protect others from harm, he won't have any other course of action.  I suspect that this is the most likely outcome.

Whatever actually happens! Only ONE (and Murata) know.  I know I need the next instalment!

Bonus question. Where is the cat?  Drive Knight dropped it when G5 showed up and it hasn't been in evidence since.

[appleketopricesblog]

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A portion of gals do know how to make it big with Apple Keto Gummies. I am somewhat relieved to discover it. I found this out in the results of an exclusive nationwide survey conducted by a Prima Weight Loss UK magazine earlier this year. I use my contraption to attract customers. I just wish I was well prepared for the remaining part of the month. If you've ever wondered about some modulation, stick around. They gave us the cold shoulder. There is that minor conundrum with it and I can't lay out a step by step opinion that is specific for every circumstance. For someone like me, it is obvious this I could try to fend off this as little as humanly possible. The Apple Keto Gummies wars will probably continue long after I am gone from that planet. I do pretend that I would find other mundane places for it. Have you ever seen an automatic Apple Keto Gummies?

This is a friendly way to roughing up Apple Keto Gummies. You might not see at first what the discretion has to do with the verdict. They offer a cash incentive. I don't care how many bells and whistles your Prima Weight Loss UK has. This needs stunning passion on my part to do it with their program in order to push ahead with it. Do not misunderestimate it. 

[damijon-supersons]

Are you still taking prompts? Damian and Jon playing Mario Kart or whatever video game you want to use.

Okay, since you said I could use any video game I want (haven’t played mario kart, sorry. Aside from Pokemon, Nintendo wasn’t part of my childhood), I’m going to use Injustice 2 XD

Also, I’m sorry anon, but I am going to hijack your prompt! I’m going to use this to express my refusal to believe that Damian will ever go back to becoming an evil character! What I noticed was, in about 4, yes FOUR different times, DC has predicted that Damian will revert back to his evil ways in some way when he grows up.  Nope, I am not having it! (Btw, the ones I’m talking about are the Injustice timeline, Damian’s battle with his illusion future self in Robin: Son of Batman, Batman Beyond Rebirth, and in Detective Comics 966)

Damian has worked too hard, has literally died and back, to prove that he has changed for the better. There is nothing that will convince me that 13 years of great character development for Damian will be thrown aside because he turns evil again in the future! Nothing! 

And you know why I’m so sure of that? Because our Damian in this main timeline right now has someone that all of those evil adult Damian timelines didn’t have…a certain boy named Jonathan Samuel Kent.

“I’m picking Robin,” Damian announced.

He placed the cursor on a portrait of a much older Damian on the screen, and then an electronic monotonous voice intoned ‘Robin’.

“Heh, that’s so like you,” Jon replied dryly. “Well, if we’re picking ourselves it’s not fair for me. I don’t know why but, I haven’t seen a single game with a Superboy on it.”

“Just pick your dad,” Damian teased. “You’re practically the same anyway, except you’re three decades lamer.”

Jon stuck his tongue out at Damian. “Shut up, this Superman isn’t my dad. This one’s like, super evil. I’m never gonna pick…‘not-dad’, he said with finality. He ended up picking Bizarro, earning him a snort from Damian.

“Hey, don’t laugh!” Jon chided Damian. “Jason said he’s actually pretty cool.”

“Todd said the same thing about your costume,” Damian casually replied.

“Hey, what’s that supposed to mean?” Jon asked with a raised brow.

“Just that his idea of clothing gets him thrown out of most restaurants,” Damian answered with a smirk. “But never mind that, it’s time to kick your ass!”

The boys had gotten a copy of a new fighting video game that was inexplicably based on the world’s heroes, which included renditions of most of the people that Jon and Damian knew. It had an impressive roster of intricately rendered characters like their fathers, the League, and other heroes—including weirdly out of place characters they didn’t know about like an ice ninja, a Japanese thunder god, and a red horned man with a gun.

As the game advertised, it was set in an alternate universe where Superman became an evil dictator, and the whole world decided that being dark and gritty was an essential part of a balanced diet. With equal parts amusement and curiosity, Damian and Jon had decided to play the game with little more intention than to laugh at how hilariously off the characters were compared to their real-life counterparts.

But Damian being Damian, he also played to win. And Jon being Jon, he was definitely not going to lose to Damian in anything.

The Damian in the game was much older, and as Jon put it—much to real Damian’s chagrin—a lot taller and better-looking. He also used a sword which he used in most of his attacks. The real Damian picked up on the controls quickly, and there wasn’t a single moment where game Damian wasn’t swinging his lethally sharp blade. It whistled with a shrill shwing with every strike, making it sound even more dangerous.

Unfortunately for Damian, Jon’s character, Bizarro, had ice beams that shot out from his eyes.

“Gah! You cheater…” Damian grumbled as game-Damian was interrupted from a flashy sword combo by a single ice beam. “Fighting  in a two-dimensional field is idiotic. If it were really me, I’d have sidestepped that!”

“Told you Bizarro is cool.” Jon giggled.

“I hate you and your puns!” Damian groaned. “That’s it, taste defeat, farm boy!” He executed game Damian’s special move—a sword combo with an explosive finish via batarang. It was enough to give Damian the round.

“Hah!” he pumped his fist in triumph.

Instead of looking disappointed with his loss, Jon’s cheeks were almost bursting from stifling his laughter.

“What…what’s so funny?” Damian asked as his smug smile wavered.

“Your special…” Jon began as he breathed in  to compose himself, “was to do an awkward ninja run, look really stiff while using your sword…then pose and wait for three whole seconds before your batarangs hit me.”

“That was two seconds, tops,” Damian said, completely missing the point.

Jon snorted and burst out laughing.

“Damian…your video game self was so extra, it’s like the only thing you left out was shades and shiny teeth.  You were trying way too hard to look cool.”

“Hey,” Damian protested. “It’s a decently styled—”

“The only thing that makes this even funnier is that it’s totally you,” Jon giggled heartily.

Damian frowned. He didn’t know how to retort without making it obvious that for a few seconds, he’d actually wanted to try posing like his game-self did.

The boys kept playing and trying different characters until Damian went back to playing himself. Jon chose Batman for the first time, and he noticed Damian tense up. As the story of the game went, game-Damian turned against Batman and sided with Superman. Game-Batman had readily abandoned his son in turn. Whenever the two of them would face each other in the game, they’d both spew out scathing and hateful taunts that made Damian squirm.

This time, Jon won handily, winning with Batman’s special move.

Jon blinked. “Did your game-dad just…use a bat-shaped jet to drag you in the air and blow you up with a small army’s worth of bullets and missiles…?”

Damian looked as mind-blown as Jon. “That…was the most impractical use of the Batwing I’ve ever seen.”

“That was overkill,” Jon mused.

“And that’s considering that my dad has intentionally rammed the Batwing into things in real life before,” Damian nodded.

“Hey, Damian?” Jon asked as he eyed his friend anxiously. “Are you okay? You seem kinda antsy ever since I picked your dad…”

Damian avoided looking straight into Jon’s eyes. “What do you think about how the game depicted my future?” he asked with a guarded expression.

Jon raised his eyebrows—the question took him by surprise. “It’s a video game. I don’t really care what they said you were.”

“But you thought that the Damian in the game was evil, right?” Damian continued, glancing expectantly at Jon.

“Well, I mean, everyone was sort of on this gray line—“ Jon stopped after seeing Damian’s annoyed look. “Okay, fine, I thought he was evil. The game makes it a point to make you act as unlikeable as possible anyway.”

Damian shifted uncomfortably on the couch. He sighed as if resigning himself to a cruel fate.

“That game…” Damian began, his words calm but measured.  “It’s not the first time that something predicted that I would betray my father and turn to evil in the future.”

Jon listened with rapt attention as Damian continued. He’d never seen Damian this gravely serious before.

“When I was adventuring with Maya, an artifact manifested future versions of ourselves based on the parts of ourselves that we couldn’t come to terms with. I was forced to fight an adult version of myself that was still the bloodthirsty assassin my grandfather trained. I barely survived.”

“Wow…that’s rough,” Jon said gently. He could tell that Damian was upset in a way that could not easily be dismissed.

“That’s not all,” Damian continued. “There’s…something I’ve never told you before. Drake…he created this computer program that could calculate a person’s approximate future based on their experiences and personality. On two separate instances, that program predicted that I’d turn back to my old ways—once as the new ruthless leader of the League of Assassins…

“…and another as a more tyrannical and deadly version of Batman. 

“Either way, it seems like everything agrees that my future will see me becoming the evil I’d sworn to reject.”

Damian ended with a solemn silence. He bowed his head and stared at his knees. “Do you understand why I never told you this before?” he asked Jon, who had a mixed look of confusion and concern on his face. “Knowing what I’d just told you…and what I’m destined to become, no one in their right minds would associate with me. And I wouldn’t blame you if you decided to leave and stop talking to me.”

Jon knew that Damian wasn’t the kind of person who cried much—if at all. But the sheer cold silence that Damian was giving him was worse. It was as if Damian was deathly certain that he would leave right then and there and never come back. Damian had already accepted that Jon didn’t want to be friends with him anymore, and that he was just waiting for Jon to say so.

Jon knit his brow. Damian’s willingness to accept his dark future was frightening, to be sure. But one detail, or rather, the lack of a certain detail, tugged at his mind.

“Damian,” Jon asked carefully. “In all those futures…what happened to me?”

Damian wrinkled his nose at Jon. “Those were my futures, not yours. Why would you ever be in them?” he snapped.

“Because, dummy,” Jon retorted with a stubborn look. “Do you think I’d let any of those bad futures happen to you? Now, tell me where I was in your future, or when exactly you got those predictions. Did we even know each other already  when you got them?”

“Well I…” Damian trailed off, his eyes widening in apparent realization. “No, I suppose we hadn’t met yet when the program had made the predictions. You weren’t there yet when Maya and I were completing my atonement for the year of blood. And you and I’ve only been public as a team recently, so the game wouldn’t have put you in…”

“Then that settles it!” Jon declared ecstatically. “Damian, there’s one thing that your futures didn’t count on—the fact that we became friends!”

“What do you mean?” Damian asked with genuine curiosity.

“Damian…in the first place, I don’t believe that just because some things predict your future, you can’t decide it for yourself,” Jon explained adamantly. He was wringing his hands as if willing Damian to understand.

“I don’t care how many people say your future will get messed up—you’re a good person. You’ve fought and sacrificed so much to become who you are today. You’ve become someone that your family loves and cares about! You’re not Damian, Ra’s Al Ghul’s grandkid. You’re Robin, son of Batman.”

“And more importantly—“ Jon continued, cutting off Damian’s inevitable retort. “Dude, I’m your friend! I mean, sure, we argue sometimes, and you’re mean, and you tease me a lot…”

“Tt,” Damian clicked his tongue as if to say ‘that’s not helping’.

“But…we’re friends.” Jon waved dismissively. 

“Not just because we’re working together as superheroes, either. We’re friends because we want to be. Because I want to be. You…you get what it’s like to be a kid and a hero at the same time, I can talk to you, and we can hang out and stuff. I never tell you this but, I kinda look up to you, you know? You’re always so in control and awesome, and like a ninja and…sometimes it’s cool…”

“Are you saying you think I’m cool?” Damian smirked.

“Shut up Damian! I’m in the middle of something here!” Jon chided him. “What I’m trying to say is, whatever happens…I’ll help you find a future that’s better. I’m not gonna leave you. We’re partners, now and in any future. Your bad futures aren’t gonna happen because I’m here to make sure they don’t.” Jon flashed Damian a toothy grin.

“And if for some reason, I end up having to fight you and fulfill that dark future?” Damian asked coyly. His voice, however, had softened and relaxed.

“Then I’ll beat you, duh!” Jon emphasized. “Laser eyes beats sword, remember?” he finished by sticking his tongue out.

“You sound so sure,” Damian said as he shook his head. Whether it was in disbelief or gratitude, Jon wasn’t sure.

“Don’t worry about your future,” Jon said with a grin. He held Damian’s hands enthusiastically. Before Damian could even protest,  he was already hovering a few inches off the floor, carrying Damian with him.

“Superboy’s got your back!” Jon promised.

The corner of Damian’s lips twitched. He wasn’t in a hurry to show any kind of emotion. But what he said next was better than any sort of ‘thank you’ that he could think of.

“I know. I believe you.”

There you go, guys! Consider this fic my rebuttal against DC trying to make Damian evil as an adult! No way Jon would ever let that happen! I’m convinced that Jon would help keep Damian good if anything would ever tempt him to return to his less heroic ways. I hope this fic was okay, I was agitated when I wrote it and it might have typos and stuff :p

Also shoutout to @harljordan who let me use their awesome edit from Supersons #8 above :)

EDIT:  I couldn’t resist making this edit based on this awesome post script idea by @desolationofzara :D

BUT THIS IS WHAT REALLY HAPPENED

Edits by me, and I screencapped my game for this XD

[antiagingninjas]

How To Use CBD Oil for Pain Relief

Cannabidiol, also called CBD, is one of the cannabinoids that is found in cannabis and is a natural remedy that you can use for a wide range of ailments. The cannabis plant contains more than 120 compounds called cannabinoids. The one most people are familiar with is THCor Tetrahydrocannabinol, a psychoactive cannabinoid that can impact the consumer’s mental processes and cause them to experience euphoria. Although CBD is also a cannabinoid, it is not a psychoactive one. This compound does, however, affect multiple receptors in your body, which can result in pain relief and relaxation. The CBD oil production process involves breeding hemp plants, extracting the CBD from the plants, and diluting it with hemp seed oil or coconut oil.

 There are several methods of consuming CBD. You can take it orally, vape the oil, or apply the oil as a topical lotion to your skin. If you would like to know what CBD Oil we recommend click here.

How To Use CBD Oil for Pain Relief

Oral or Sublingual Consumption

 CDB products that you can take orally include tinctures, candies, and jelly sweets. There are also several beverages that contain CBD. Many people choose to consume CBD with these methods as they are affordable and provide relief quickly.

 Vaping

 Vaping CBD oil with a vape or electronic cigarette is another popular consumption method that many people enjoy. You can purchase CBD vape cartridges in concentrations that range from 100mg to 1,000mg per cartridge.

 Local Application

 This consumption method is suitable for treating localized pain. Applying topical lotions that contain CBD oil to a specific part of your body can concentrate the pain relief capabilities of CBD and ensure fast relief. Topical products that contain CBD include gels, salves, massage creams, and roll-on creams.

 Does CBD Oil Help for Pain?

 People have been using marijuana for pain relief as far back as 2900 B.C. Since the FDA loosened restrictions on CBD research in 2015, the medical community started conducting studies to determine the effect of CBD on pain levels and inflammation. Quantifying the effect of CBD is a challenge, as people respond differently to CBD. After consuming cannabis oil, you may experience a reduction in pain and start feeling relaxed, calm, and comfortable.

 If you were to do some online searching, you would find many people on forums and other platforms who used CBD oil and experienced relief from arthritis, joint pain, and muscle pain. Many critics believe that pain relief is the result of a placebo effect or ascribe pain relief to the fact that CBD alters the brain’s serotonin receptors and interferes with the breakdown of anandamide. When you consider the effect of CBD and the interaction it has with neurotransmitters, however, it appears that CBD oil can help for pain.

 How Does CBD Relieve Pain?

 The body has a specialized endocannabinoid system (ECS) that produces endocannabinoids, which are neurotransmitters that bind to cannabinoid receptors in the nervous system. A neurotransmitter is a chemical substance that sends information between neurons. The endocannabinoid system also receives and translates signals from phytocannabinoids that come from plants like THC and CBD. One of the primary functions of the endocannabinoid system is to regulate sleep, immune system response, appetite, and pain.

 When you consume CBD, the cannabinoid has an indirect influence on your nervous system’s cannabinoids receptors, which increases the endocannabinoids that your body produces naturally. The increase in endocannabinoid production means electrical signals can cross the gap between neurons, and you may start feeling relaxed and experience a reduction in pain levels. Unlike THC, CBD doesn’t directly affect the cannabinoid receptors in the brain, which is why consumption doesn’t cause euphoria.

 How Long Does It Take for CBD Oil to Work for Pain?

 The time it takes for CBD oil to work depends on the method of consumption and the severity of your pain.

 Inhalation is the fastest method of CBD consumption as it enters your bloodstream through the alveoli sacs in your lungs. If you inhale CBD vapor, you may experience instant relief, but the effects may also wear off quicker than other consumption methods.

 Sublingual drops or tinctures that you place beneath your tongue can also enter your bloodstream quickly through the veins that absorb the CBD directly.

 Ingestion is the best consumption method for long-lasting effects. Your digestive tract breaks down CBD for several hours and introduces the compound steadily to your bloodstream. With this consumption method, you will have to wait for 30 minutes or longer before experiencing pain relief.

 Topical application of lotions, gels, or salves can provide relief within a few minutes. When you consume CBD this way, the compound doesn’t enter your bloodstream. Topical applications are intended for use for localized pain only.

 Can CBD Oil Make Pain Worse?

 CBD oil is highly unlikely to make your pain worse. The interaction that CBD has with your endocannabinoid system is not associated with an increase in pain levels.

 If you consume CBD oil and your pain levels increase, it may be because of a foreign substance that was added to the oil you purchased. To prevent this from happening, only buy CBD oil from a reputable supplier.

 Does CBD Oil Help Inflammation?

 Inflammation is the body’s response to injury or harmful stimuli. When you are injured, your white blood cells produce substances to protect you from bacteria and viruses that can cause infection. If, for example, you sprain your ankle or cut yourself, the area will become inflamed to promote the healing process. Inflammation as the result of an injury is called acute inflammation and is typically short-lived. However, when the inflammation response is triggered continuously, it can result in chronic, low-level inflammation that can be harmful to the body. Chronic inflammation can cause several conditions including depression, diabetes, hypertension, arthritis, and Alzheimer’s disease.

 CBD oil can help for both acute and chronic inflammation by mediating the body’s immune response to autoimmune diseases. CBD can also reduce inflammatory pain by activating glycine receptors. The anti-inflammatory characteristics of CBD oil can be especially beneficial for athletes who suffer from acute musculoskeletal injuries. If you suffer from inflammation or inflammatory pain, CBD oil can be a viable treatment to provide you with relief and comfort.

 What Are the Side Effects of CBD Oil?

 CBD oil is a cannabinoid that is similar to the phytocannabinoids your body produces naturally. Despite this, some consumers may experience side-effects like insomnia, fatigue, irritability, and nausea. Other side-effects include diarrhoea and changes in appetite. CBD can also interact with medications. If you experience adverse side-effects from CBD, consult with your doctor.

 Other Benefits of CBD Oil

 Apart from pain management and treatment for inflammation, there may be several other benefits to consuming CBD oil. According to users, other benefits of CBD oil include the following:

 –    Alleviates anxiety and depression

–    Protection against multi-drug resistant bacteria

–    Reduces oxidative stress

–    Combats schizophrenia

–    Promotes weight loss and prevents diabetes

–    Improves cardiovascular health

–    Skin condition treatment

 The health benefits of CBD oils are mainly the result of the way CBD oil affects the nervous system’s cannabinoid receptors. Since CBD oil also has anti-inflammatory properties, it can alleviate or prevent conditions associated with chronic inflammation like diabetes or depression.

 Is CBD Oil for You?

 CBD oil is for you if you are dealing with multiple stress factors throughout your day. Chronic stress from things like traffic, work pressure, and difficult personal circumstances can eventually affect your health in several ways. Since CBD oil has a relaxing effect, it can alleviate chronic stress and anxiety, helping you cope with daily stressors. CBD oil can also combat fatigue and boost your productivity during the day. However, if you have sleep problems, consider lowering your dosage.

 Before purchasing CBD oil, try to learn more about the legal status of hemp products in your state. Like dietary supplements, CBD is not regulated by the FDA. Some CBD oil suppliers sell products that can contain low levels of THC, which, as we mentioned above, affect your brain’s cannabinoid receptors and can cause euphoria. The product you buy should only contain CBD and a carrier oil like hemp seed oil or coconut oil. If you want to purchase lotions, food, tinctures, or vaping oil that doesn’t contain any contaminants, stick to reputable suppliers.

 How To Use CBD Oil for Pain Relief: Conclusion

 The research on the benefits of CBD oils is ongoing, and there are still many things that we still have to learn about the efficacy and safety of this compound. When you consider the positive results that many consumers experienced after using cannabis, however, it appears to be an effective remedy for chronic pain and conditions like arthritis and muscle pain. Consuming CBD oil can also help you find relief from inflammation and conditions associated with it.

You might be interested to read our reviews of the top 20 CBD Oil Brands.

   The post How To Use CBD Oil for Pain Relief appeared first on Anti Aging Ninjas.

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[christhehoff]

An Ode to Silver Boxes

To those who got into video games only in the last 10 or so years, the appeal of the Konami name might not be readily apparent. Newcomers to the hobby probably associate them with Metal Gear, soccer games, and probably little else. But there was a time when the Konami name was as good as gold; in the days of the NES, Konami built itself up as a gaming powerhouse, and it delivered its trademark brand of 8-bit action with a distinct, eye-catching hook: action-packed artwork framed by a silver border.

To me, that silver box, with its weighted lines on either side that faded away to showcase the dynamic art, was a promise — a promise that something awesome was inside. Whether it was flying through space to save the galaxy in Gradius, running through the jungles with a buddy in Contra, hitting the ice in Blades of Steel, maneuvering an assault jeep across enemy territory in Jackal, or driving a stake into the heart of evil in Castlevania, there was almost always something good behind that silver veneer. It seemed like just about any game could get the Official Nintendo Seal of Quality, but to get into a silver box? That meant it had to be something special. It had to be elite: adrenaline-pumping gameplay, cutting-edge graphics, responsive controls, and some of the most memorable music you'll ever hear from a sound chip.

Not every Konami NES game was great, of course. Top Gun was fun until you tried to land, and few games have disappointed me as much as The Adventures of Bayou Billy. But for the most part, Konami consistently delivered excellent game after excellent game. To me, Konami games were just as much of a reason to own an NES as the first-party Nintendo titles were. It could be considered sacrilege, I know, but as much as I love the Super Mario series, Zelda, Metroid, and Punch-Out!!, if I was forced to choose one library over the other, I might take Konami's NES offerings over Nintendo's.

And Konami's appeal went beyond those silver borders. Konami's second label, Ultra Games (created to circumvent Nintendo's third-party publishing restrictions), didn't feature the silver boxes, but typically delivered quality nonetheless (Metal Gear, anyone?), and Konami's reputation for amazing gaming experiences continued late into the NES's lifecycle and into the 16-bit era when Konami eschewed the silver frames for more conventional designs. But even when the silver was gone, the quality remained, with games such as Super Castlevania IV, Legend of the Mystical Ninja, Axelay, Contra III, Rocket Knight Adventures, and one of my all-time personal favorites, Snatcher.

And let's not forget Konami's licensed offerings. In an era when movie- and cartoon-based games were frequently unplayable garbage, Konami made licensed titles that weren't just good but brilliant. As a kid, I wasn't even a fan of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Tiny Toon Adventures, or The Simpsons, but I absolutely loved the games. (Well...not the first, awful NES TMNT game.) These games were fantastic whether you enjoyed the property they were based on or not, and the games actually got me interested in the franchises they were based on rather than the other way around. Co-op brawler TMNT IV: Turtles in Time, technique-filled platformer Tiny Toon Adventures: Buster Busts Loose!, and skull-crunching beat-'em-up Batman Returns exude as much polish as anything released in the 16-bit era and remain among my favorite SNES games of all time. As for The Simpsons? Konami didn't have home-console rights to the property, so when the opportunity presented itself, I bought the actual arcade machine.

As the gaming industry matured, consoles and gaming fads came and went, but Konami remained a leader, branching out into new genres, reinventing old ones, and pioneering its own with offerings that included Suikoden, Vandal Hearts, Metal Gear Solid, Castlevania: Symphony of the Night, Silent Hill, Zone of the Enders, and the groundbreaking Dance Dance Revolution and Bemani music series. When the Pokémon craze hit, I was excited by the prospect of this new, collectable take on RPGs, but I was even more excited hearing that Konami had its own spin on the formula with Yu-Gi-Oh, which I was sure would outclass Pokémon in every way. I was completely wrong, of course, and in retrospect I'm glad, but at the time, it certainly seemed like a possibility.

When I made my first trip to Japan in 1996, it warmed my heart to see a Konami building in the Tokyo skyline, complete with the classic red-and-yellow wave logo. "Those are my guys," I thought as I looked at the building. I knew they were making magic in there. Maybe someday the Konami Omni Building from Snatcher would even be a reality.

But the magic didn't last. Though Konami continued to pump out appealing games on both consoles and handhelds up through the PS2 and Nintendo DS eras (special shoutout to Contra 4, a game I'm incredibly proud to have had a hand in revealing), the company's output dropped dramatically after that. The rising costs associated with the PS3/Xbox 360 era were not kind to Japanese gaming, and the teams responsible for beloved franchises got dissolved, development on some properties were outsourced to external companies, and resources were shifted to pachinko machines and lackluster mobile titles. Subsidiary Hudson Soft, purchased by Konami in 2011, was shut down, and its brands were all but wiped from existence. Later, reports trickled in of how some of gaming's greatest minds were being mistreated by Konami management, and most of them abandoned ship at the first opportunity.

When I visited the once-proud company's E3 booth on the second day of the show in 2014, it looked like an abandoned wasteland. An irate Konami fan once accused me of taking the photo shown here before they'd finished setting up the booth, but this was right in the middle of gaming's biggest annual event, and they apparently didn't have any products to display. Instead of warming my heart like it had 18 years prior, this Konami just made me sad.

Honestly, I applaud Konami for branching out into alternative revenue sources rather than go belly-up or face continuous losses like some Japanese gaming giants, but to say they threw the baby out with the bathwater is an understatement. By squandering their greatest resource — their creative personnel — and abandoning the brands that made them famous, Konami has eliminated the very things that made them special, and destroyed the good will and respect that they'd forged with a generation of fans.

Will Konami ever try to take back its place of greatness in gaming's pantheon? Will they consider reviving brands like Gradius, Contra, Mystical Ninja, and Suikoden? Or could those series be licensed to talented outside studios who, like me, were inspired by Konami's original works and would love to carry on the legacy? After seeing Konami's revival of Bomberman R on Switch, it may be fair to say that those old brands may not be dead just yet.

Then again, if they are, I'll still always have my old cartridges...and my memories of those captivating silver boxes.

[spinneryesteryear]

The KH people are now in naruto. Who does what?

I couldn’t decide whether to treat this as ‘crossover where the KH people end up in the Naruto-verse’ or as an AU along the lines of ‘where the KH people were born in the Naruto-verse’, so I’m gonna go with the second in order to make things simpler. Haha. ‘Simpler’. I must also remind myself not to drag my world-building headcanons into this...

Kairi - Easiest of all. She’s an Uzumaki! The red hair totally fits. Since she’s a Princess of Heart in KH, I’d translate her as an Uzumaki princess, as Mito and Kushina are commonly assumed to have been. She’d have Adamantine Sealing Chains made out of pure light/chakra. Plus, my understanding of the Uzumaki is that they have a great deal of Yang chakra, which is associated with light. *imagines Kairi with chakra chains and seals* Good stuff. Plus, maybe she could be a chakra sensor, like Karin? Chains, seals, sensing - those are some good abilities there. 

Riku - Lol, my first thought is that he would be a successful Uchiha, despite the totally wrong coloring. Bear out with me on this. In KH, he’s goaded into opening the door to darkness and destroying his world, and then into capturing the Princesses of Heart in a deluded quest to save Kairi - does this sound like an Uchiha tantrum or what? You could even argue that Kairi’s ‘loss of her heart’ could have qualified him for a Mangekyou if he had blamed himself. However, Riku actually takes responsibility for his actions and does his best to fix things; he at least never became an international terrorist, and his life change is sincere. In the end, he’d be more like... what the Uchiha should be, if they didn’t all go power-crazy. (*waits for an Uchiha stan to jump on me for saying this*) Anyway. I’d definitely associate Riku with some kind of Yin Release (because darkness!) - genjutsu/illusions? Combined with kenjutsu, it reminds me a little of Shisui’s skillset - another point in the ‘Uchiha Riku’ column. Then again, he doesn’t have to be an Uchiha to be great at genjutsu. Hmm... what if he is, like, actually Xehanort’s grandson in this AU? Depending on the timeline, he might be expected by his family to carry on Xehanort’s master plan. Or, if Xehanort’s shenanigans have become common knowledge and he has fled the village like Orochimaru, Riku might be suspected as a flight risk. Like Sasuke running away to Sound, Riku might initially run away to Xehanort/Akatsuki. Unlike Sasuke, Riku comes back. 

Sora - A kenjutsu user, like Riku, with ninjutsu of various elements under his belt and no real talent at genjutsu. Perhaps he also works hard on taijutsu for when he doesn’t have his sword? He’s not from any big ninja clan and doesn’t have a fancy bloodline; he’s dragged himself to where he is now by following the Rock Lee school of hard work. I’m imagining Sora, Riku, and Kairi on a genin team together; they’ve been friends since they met in the Academy and showed an aptitude for teamwork that practically guaranteed they’d be placed on the same team. If we want to follow the Team 7 format, Riku would be the Rookie of the Year, Kairi would be the Top Kunoichi, and Sora would be the Dead Last (I’m sorry, Sora). However, they’d work together and actually pull that team formation off. Sora would also have issues, much like Naruto, with the school of thought that ninja need to be emotionless dehumanized tools for their village’s purpose. Would he also have epic powers of converting his enemies to his side? Possibly. 

Donald Duck - Okay, if we’re leaving him as a duck, then presumably he’s a summons animal of some sort. A duck summons. With ninjutsu. Water Release, Ice Release? IDK, in KH he has a lot more different types of magic than are common for ninja and animals in the Naruto-verse. As a summons animal, he could be anywhere from the size of a normal duck to person-sized to larger than person-sized. He wouldn’t be a boss summon, though. He’d still get to wear his blue jacket and hat, though, and talk in his squeaky voice. With his aquatic nature and Water Release, it makes me think of Kiri or Uzushio. Perhaps the duck summoning contract was salvaged from Uzushio? Does that mean Kairi is a duck summoner? 

Goofy - Okay, he could be a nin-dog - like, an actual dog, and not the anthropomorphized dog he is in KH. Perhaps he could be Sora’s dog partner, like Kiba and Akamaru? We could have ninja!Sora riding a dog into battle! Inuzuka Sora is... actually a pretty cool idea? If we don’t go that route, Goofy could be some sort of dog summons (was it ever explained whether Kakashi’s dogs were normal dogs he just summoned or summons animals???) and could then have an excuse for being anthropomorphized, walking on two field, and wielding shields or other weapons. I like the idea of Inuzuka Sora and his faithful battle dog more, though.

Mickey - Do I want to keep him as an anthropomorphized mouse or do I make a human AU out of this? If I do a human AU, he could be the jounin sensei of Sora, Kairi, and Riku - an elite jounin, a kenjutsu and ninjutsu expert, an S-rank shinobi who’s considered a viable kage candidate if they could keep him in his office long enough to actually do his paperwork. He probably doesn’t even do his paperwork as it is, always running off on missions. He doesn’t really strike me as former ANBU material, although it remains a possibility. Maybe he could have mouse summons for communication (or giant mouse summons for combat?) if we want to keep the rodent theme going on here. Perhaps his wife, Minnie, is high up in their village’s government, actually running things. She could be the head of T&I or something. 

Yen Sid - Old ninja. Highly respected in his day, and still commands a reputation throughout the Elemental Nations. Possibly known as ‘the Professor’. Mickey’s jounin sensei. Genin teammate of Eraqus and Xehanort. He could be the kage of his village and complete the parallels with Sarutobi Hiruzen/Sandaime Hokage (Yen Sid may not have done much of anything so far and may have hidden information from the main characters, but his only pupil turned out successfully so he’s still ahead of Hiruzen). He strikes me as a sealing master and very knowledgeable about chakra and jutsu theory in general.

Eraqus - Old ninja, kenjutsu master, possibly with a side of ninjutsu. Genin teammate of Yen Side and Xehanort. Had a bit of a falling out with his genin teammates years ago, Yen Sid for his inaction and Xehanort for his creepiness, but they’ve mended some bridges by now. Aqua and Terra are a little too old to still be genin; possibly they are his chuunin apprentices in kenjutsu or something? Huge angst potential here with the idea that Eraqus was their jounin sensei and their third genin teammate died in a mission gone wrong or something. Aqua and Terra made genin and then chuunin nevertheless, but all three of them were affected by the loss and Eraqus became doubly determined not to lose any of his kids by ensuring as well as he can that they’re prepared for the shinobi lifestyle and that they won’t go down a similar path as Xehanort. Extra heartwrenchingly, Ventus comes along as a boy so similar to the genin student he lost and Xehanort possibly gives him to Eraqus to train/raise knowing that. Guilt trip, any one?

Terra - Okay, so I started off this laughing to myself at the thought of Terra in the Tsuchikage hat, but then I had a better idea. Terra’s darkness/evil power inside him that he struggles to keep at bay - this translates really well to him being a jinchuuriki. Terra being the container for an ‘evil’ tailed beast and shunned by society for it would explain some of his self-esteem issues and his desperate need for validation/approval from his teacher. It might also explain his need to get stronger; he has to, in order to control the tailed beast within him for the sake of his entire village, and so he won’t lose anyone else like his dead genin teammate. Eraqus’s light-is-good/darkness-is-evil mentality would play into things here with him preaching to Terra that he has to keep the tailed beast in check, suppress his emotions, and become a good dehumanized tool for the village. Xehanort, on the other hand, would tell Terra that it’s okay to be human, that the tailed beast’s power can be channeled, that the villagers should view him as a hero for his difficult duty - emotionally manipulating him by giving him the validation he craves in order to gain a jinchuuriki and the awesome power of a tailed beast under his control.

...Yikes. That is genuinely frightening. 

No, I do NOT need another fic on my plate no matter how much Xehanort gathering the neglected jinchuuriki and manipulating them into causing the apocalypse so he can revive the Juubi for his own agenda would make an interesting and horrifying fic...

Aqua - The only one out of the ‘kids’ to have it together. She’s probably already made jounin; she holds her own with kenjutsu and ninjutsu. She’s been tasked with watching Terra by Eraqus/the village leaders because they’re afraid that his tailed beast’s seal is weakening/he’s giving into the tailed beast/he’s going to go rogue and leave his village, etc. (When all he actually needs here is some support, dang it.) She’ll have to confront the ‘ninja are tools of their village’ mentality. I’d like to see her on a retrieval mission alongside Sora/Riku/Kairi to bring back Sasuke defecting to Sound Riku leaving for Maleficent/Xehanort or having to deal with a tailed beast rampage and tearfully having to decide whether to try to talk down a possessed Terra or to kill her best friend in order to save the village. Because I enjoy pain.

Ventus - OH MY GOSH Ventus is Tenzou/Yamato. Possibly stolen from his family at a young age? Check. Experimented on by a crazy madman in hopes of reviving a legendary power? Check. Experiment apparently fails and he’s abandoned/the only survivor of said experiments? Check. He ultimately proves able to use/create said legendary power? Check. Ventus, however, lucks out in that he’s taken in by Eraqus and doesn’t fall into the clutches of Danzou and become even more messed up. So, in this Naruto AU, Ventus has the mokuton (magical tree-growing ability). Thus, it would make incredible sense for him to be put with Terra, as the wood-controlling powers of the mokuton suppress tailed beast chakra. Ventus has thus been (unknowingly) trained to be the one to fight and possibly put down his big brother figure if he ever succumbs to the tailed beast within him. Or - what if Ventus knows this might one day be his duty and desperately hopes to avoid it? That might lend an extra flavor of panic to his insistence that Terra isn’t losing himself to the darkness/tailed beast - it can’t be true, because if it’s true Ventus has to fight him and possibly kill him. And Ventus can’t do that, not to one of the few people who’s treated him as a person, as something more than a (failed) science experiment or a fairy tale figure. Thus, in this AU, it wouldn’t be Eraqus threatening to kill Terra. It’d be Eraqus threatening Ventus in order to get Ventus to kill Terra and/or trying to kill Terra himself. D: 

Namine - Possibly another one of Orochimaru’s Xehanort’s science experiments who survived? She has the same cartoons-come-to-life jutsu as Sai. Xehanort and his crew may have used her for villainous purposes (to capture the tailed beasts/their containers?) but Sora acknowledged her as a person and she’s decided to join his fight in the ‘ninja are people not emotionless tools to be used to whatever horrible end by their village’ struggle. Possibly, she and Kairi team up (sealing via drawings + magical chains) to put an end to the tailed beast rampage and save Terra from Xehanort and his minions?

Vanitas - IDK can anyone think of any reason why he would NOT be an Uchiha whom Xehanort is manipulating for his own ends in this AU? If his association with Sora is kept, perhaps he was Sora’s adopted older brother whom Danzou Xehanort stole to become his minion like poor Aburame Torune.

Xehanort - Is basically Orochimaru. Without the snakes. He was the genin teammate of Yen Side and Eraqus and got away with a lot of stuff while they weren’t looking/were unwilling to look. He experimented on Ventus in order to revive the legendary mokuton ability. He may have exploited Namine for her unique drawings-come-to-life ability. He would totally have stolen Vanitas for his abilities and/or experimented on him to give him said abilities. He’s been creeping on Terra and emotionally manipulating or just capturing the other jinchuuriki for their tailed beasts. Unlike most Naruto villains, he has no motivations of wanting to change the world for peace, blah, blah, blah. He just wants to combine the tailed beast into the Juubi monstrosity and potentially cause the apocalypse just to see what will happen. Due to Yen Sid’s passivity and his guilt-tripping of Eraqus, he gets away with a lot of it. By the time Terra goes berserk and the village is at risk of destruction by the tailed beast he carries, Xehanort can sit back and watch Eraqus do his work for him in delivering said tailed beast right to him. 

Organization XIII - Are the Akatsuki, I guess? Xehanort has assembled a team of S-rank shinobi, either missing nin or ones he just stole (*cough Ienzo, Lea, Isa, Roxas, Xion cough*) and raised to work for him without questioning his goals. They even have a uniform! His goal of Norting them all can be carried over by Xehanort killing them and using their corpses in his version of the Six Paths of Pain - the Thirteen Paths of Xehanort, or something like that. Yikes. That is also terrifying. Eventually, all the ninja nations unite against him and he starts the zombie apocalypse to keep them busy while he grabs the last few jinchuuriki and begins the real apocalypse. 

IDK where I’m going with this anymore. The Sora = Inuzuka, Terra = jinchuuriki, and Ventus = mokuton bits are the real genius elements here. 

[jillmckenzie1]

A Man of Focus

Let’s begin with something that’s indisputable. On April 1, 2009, Alfonso Hernandez and Michael Edmonds thought it would be funny to shoot a dog dead. Why? All cruelty has ever needed to flourish is an opportunity. In this case, Hernandez and Edmonds saw a yellow Labrador puppy outside a home. They shot the dog with a .357 Magnum pistol, then stood over her body, laughing.

In addition to being evil, this was a seriously dumb move. The puppy’s name was Dasy. Her guardian was Marcus Luttrell, a SEAL team member awarded the Navy Cross for heroism in combat while serving in Afghanistan. He was the only survivor of a particularly vicious firefight. Dasy was given to Luttrell to help with the healing process. Her name is an acronym for the names of the men Luttrell served alongside.

Armed with a pistol, Luttrell snuck up on Hernandez and Edmonds. He took aim. They saw him, hopped in their car, and fled. Undeterred, Luttrell pursued them in his pickup. Across three counties. For 40 miles at speeds approaching 100 miles per hour. During the chase, Luttrell was on the phone with a 911 operator, and he was quoted as saying, “You need to get someone out here because if I catch them, I’m going to kill them.”*

Does that sound a little familiar? This is how myths are born. A real event happens. A storyteller takes the core event and runs with it. Yet a great deal of our modern mythology is found in movies, and it doesn’t all have to do with the Avengers. One of the latest additions to American film mythology, 2014’s John Wick, told the story of a grieving widower who received a preposterously cute puppy as the last gift from his wife. Assorted scumbags kill the puppy and take the widower’s car. Did I mention that the widower is a legendarily lethal assassin? The film wasn’t just a hit—it cemented itself as a benchmark, a necessary addition to action cinema. Now, the maybe-or-maybe-not conclusion of the trilogy, John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum, has arrived. Holy hell, has it ever.

All three films are tightly plotted together, and in order to understand what the heck has happened, you need to either have seen the preceding two films or read this handy recap.

In the first film, Wick (Keanu Reeves) was able to get revenge for the death of his puppy Daisy by killing a lot of bad people. When John Wick: Chapter Two gets going, Wick is immediately dealing with the theft of his car. He’s also reluctantly drawn into a plot by Santino (Riccardo Scamarcio), a crook with dreams of ascending to the High Table, the ruling council of a global criminal syndicate. Things went sideways. Wick ended up killing the hell out of Santino. Unfortunately, he did this at The Continental, a hotel for assassins and safe ground. “Conducting business” is a no-no at The Continental, and Wick conducted business extremely enthusiastically.

So, does Wick get a slap on the wrist and a stern lecture from Winston (Ian McShane), the manager of The Continental? He does not. Instead, Wick has been declared excommunicado. There’s a $14 million price on his head, and every killer is crawling out of the woodwork just to take their shot.** This is where Chapter Three begins. Wick is a pretty sharp cookie, and he has both a short-term and long-term plan.

The short-term plan is to brutally kill anyone who comes after him, and he does so hilariously at the New York Public Library. The long-term plan is to head for Casablanca, track down The Elder—the head of the High Table, and make amends. To do that, he’ll need to first ask The Director (Anjelica Huston) for help getting him out of the United States. Next, he’ll need to find Sofia (Halle Berry), a disgruntled former associate, and ask for her help. Sounds like a cakewalk, right?

While all of Wick’s globetrotting and head smashing is going on, the High Table is making its own moves. They have sent out The Adjudicator (Asia Kate Dillon) to punish everyone involved with helping Wick in the past. Both Winston and The Bowery King (Laurence Fishburne) are informed they have seven days to relinquish control of their empires. The Adjudicator has the muscle to enforce this, as she’s brought along Zero (Mark Dacascos), a sushi chef/ninja who’s also a massive fan and rival of John Wick.

These days, action/adventure movies can be broadly separated into two categories. The first is FX heavy, consisting of your MCU and Star Wars films. By utilizing CGI, filmmakers can bring us everything from Daisy Ridley jumping over a TIE fighter to Josh Brolin throwing a moon at Robert Downey Jr. There’s an artistry to CGI that, when utilized by the right people, the results can be spectacular. Equally spectacular is the second category, films that lean hard into stunt choreography. These films are like a dance, requiring intense precision and training.

John Wick: Chapter 3 is directed by Chad Stahelski, one of the most talented and innovative stunt professionals working today. Watch how he shoots action sequences. Instead of dizzying edits, we can see long takes and appreciate the extensive training his cast and crew went through. His decades of experience brought us well-shot and innovative action scenes involving gunplay, knife fights, horse-fu, motorcycle chases, death by book, and a dog running up a wall to maul a luckless henchman.*** There is an exhausting amount of action here. Stahelski has also made a genuinely gorgeous-looking film. He’s got a knack for arresting imagery, everything from neon reflected in rainy streets to golden sand dunes. It all comes together to feel operatic, bigger than a regular action movie. I loved it, and my only criticism with his direction is that the pacing occasionally feels a little sluggish.

Returning writer Derek Kolstad, along with co-writers Shay Hatten, Chris Collins, and Marc Abrams, have delivered unto us a good news/bad news scenario. The good news is that Parabellum very nearly hits the sweet spot between the intensity of the first film and the fascinating world-building of the second. We learn more about the Continental, the High Table, and even a little of the origins of Wick himself. The script also feels like a meditation on fame and how it feels. Everywhere Wick goes, people recognize him and want a piece of him, and in the end, he just wants people to leave him the hell alone so he can grieve for his wife and play with his dog.

The bad news is that as much as we learn more about the world of John Wick, we don’t learn as much about how Wick and the other characters feel about it. During the first film, Keanu Reeves digs into a meaty performance—one of the best of his career. Ever had a loved one pass away, and while you’re trying to deal with their loss, the world keeps intruding? That’s what the first film is really about—a genuinely evil man who’s given a possibly unearned chance to redeem himself, and how that redemption falls apart. At this point in the series, so much has been taken away from John Wick. If an action scene had been trimmed and a bit more time had been devoted to emotional combat, we might have had a film that delivered an even bigger impact.

There’s never a moment with the cast where I was disappointed. Laurence Fishburne’s booming hamminess. Ian McShane’s worn-out elegance. Mark Dacascos’ nerdy enthusiasm. It’s all delightful. Anjelica Huston shows up for a minute as the sly head of a school for killers, and improv legend Jason Mantzoukas even appears briefly. I thoroughly enjoyed Halle Berry as Sofia, and she’s able to bring something real to a role that was a little smaller than I would have liked. Despite having won an Academy Award, I think Berry has never quite gotten the respect she deserves as a performer. Here, she’s put in serious tactical training, dog training, and on top of all that, she delivers an emotionally touching moment.

If the John Wick franchise is an ever-expanding wheel of bizarre rituals and crazy characters, Keanu Reeves is the still center. I’d love to get a look at the script, as I suspect he has no more than 200 lines of dialogue. It’s unfortunate that the kind of acting that Reeves is doing here will go largely unappreciated. Other actors would be tempted to go big. Reeves keeps things locked down, and his legendary blankness is actually a mask of professionalism hiding a grieving man in search of a little order. Consider an early scene located at the library. Wick has gone there to retrieve some necessary supplies hidden in a book, along with a photo of his wife. An assassin takes a shot at him. They fight, and Wick uses the book as a viciously effective weapon. Once the combat has finished, Wick takes the time to put the book back exactly where it goes. That moment tells you everything you need to know, and Reeves sells it perfectly.

Is the character of John Wick really based on Marcus Luttrell and the horrific night of April 1, 2009? I don’t know. While I’ve read in some places that he was an inspiration, I suspect it doesn’t really matter. What matters in a myth isn’t necessarily its origins. Strip away the guns, blades, and mayhem, and John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum feels like an opera, myth, or folk tale. Heightened themes, a story told through violence, and a man forced to confront what he truly is.

    *As a fast side note, Hernandez and Edmonds both pled guilty to animal cruelty. Hernandez got two years in state prison with a $1000 fine. They went a little easier on Edmonds, as he testified against his buddy and was sentenced to five years of felony probation.

**One of my favorite things about this franchise is the idea that New York alone is home to something like 600,000 professional killers. Think about that next time you stiff your server on the tip.

***This may look like a CGI pooch, but trust me when I tell you it ain’t. Click here to learn more about the stunt and the Very Good Boy who handled it.

from Blog https://ondenver.com/a-man-of-focus/

[candyciangaming]

Convention Review: 8-Bit Coference

https://8bitconference.com/

I had the pleasure of attending my first video game convention this weekend, and I'm happy to report it was a fantastic experience from start to finish.

8-Bit Gaming Conference took place on the 28th and 29th of July 2018 at Griffith College, Dublin. This is the second year of the conference and the organizers should give themselves a pat on the back for a job well done. I only managed to get to the Saturday event, but I soaked up enough throughout the day to come back satisfied, but it left me wanting more!

8-Bit is the brainchild of Graeme Moore, and with the help from dedicated volunteers and the staff of Griffith College, the event went extremely smoothly and was great fun for all ages. On site were security personnel, a fire marshal, along with first aid attendants.  The event was backed by a multitude of sponsors, such as AllCast Irish Gamers, The National Computer & Video Game Museum, The R.A.G.E, Four Star Pizza, The Guild of Nerds and Republic of Gaming, to name but a few. The entire list can be found on the events Facebook page (link at bottom). Many of these partners set up as vendors or donated to the conference in one way or another.  8-Bit conference 2018 was in aid of Inner City Helping Homeless.

General admission started at 10am, but early entry was granted to people with special needs at 9am, and there was also a quiet room on-site for people who needed it. Beanbag chairs were kindly donated by the crowd at Beanbags.ie.

My first trip in (after a coffee in Arthurs Cafe), was to the room set up by the National Computer and Video Game Museum. The room was filled with arcade machines supplied by Mini Arcade Systems, and the Museum had a choice selection of video game memorabilia and retro video games. I was more than over the moon to see boxed copies of Final Fantasy IV, Super Mario 3, and Sonic The Hedgehog.

Mini Arcade Systems supply a retro bartop console arcade, complete with tonnes of old 8 and 16bit titles. I had a go playing the original Shinobi game, which was an absolute blast. I would have stayed longer, but I knew I'd never get to leave.

The next room was a mixture of retro consoles, featuring a Dreamcast, Playstation1, SNES, and more. It was like a trip through time. Most impressive of all was a Gameboy hooked up to a massive LCD TV. Playing Tetris in HD never felt so good. The Gameboy was also modified to be used with an SNES controller. It definitely made for a great gaming experience. Super Smash Bro's was also on the go on GameCube, along with House of The Dead on Dreamcast.  

Unfortunately, the PS1 didn't feel like working which was a let down. I'm a huge Playstation fan and it was a shame this particular Playstation wasn't working. There were other Playstations on-site, but it's a shame how one faulty system managed to make it's way through.

After a quick go of Street Fighter II on the SNES, I went upstairs to the main conference room. As I ascended, I was greeted by some familiar 8-Bit music playing through a PA system, along with a huge Mario Kart flag draped around the stairway.

When I entered the main room, I didn't know where to look first, it was my idea of heaven. Game Vendors as far as the eye could see. People gaming, people dressed up in Cosplay, and it was only 11am at this point.

After doing a lap of the floor, I seen a few familiar faces. The Guild of Nerds were hosting a Cosplay competition later on in the day, and had prints of different Cosplayers for sale. The Irish Chapter of the 501st Star Wars club were out in Force (pun definitely intended), and the RAGE (Record Art Game Emporium) had also set up a stall in the room, along with generously setting up a SNES for people to come along and play some games.  The Ghostbusters were also on call for any ghostly problems that might occur throughout the day, just to be on the safe side!

A row of tables had been set up for some casual gaming, Destruction Derby 2 and Rayman 2 were on PS1, an emulation of Streets of Rage was on the Wii, Ninja Gaiden was being played on Xbox. Tekken 5 matches were taking place on PS2, and Legend of Zelda: Orcarina of Time was on Gamecube. People were also on the Dreamcast having a few games of Crazy Taxi. A couple of Laptops were also set up with Wolfenstein 3D for those old school FPS fans, Quake 2, and Worms. It wasn't just games of yore however, Gamevan.ie had set up a few consoles with Fortnite on the go, along with having a vendors booth. I had my fair share of games at the retro table before heading off to do a little bit of shopping.

Rewind Retro Gaming and Retro Ralph sorted me out with some fantastic PS1 titles to ad to my collection. The games were all in fantastic quality along with being extremely cheap in price. I helped myself to a few games (and came back for seconds). Word of advice for people interested in coming to 8-Bit, I couldn't find an ATM machine on campus so come prepared.

I wandered over to Like The Bog Flower Designs and Beanies Art Mart who both had a fantastic selection of homemade figurines, stickers, badges, T-shirts and prints.

As the day went on, I took part in the Tekken 3 tournament, after days and days of training, I got my ass absolutely handed to me by Eddy Gordo, not the most graceful of losses, but it was a great bit of fun for all involved. Other tournaments were Mario Kart, Street Fighter, and Super Smash Bros.

One of the spectacles of the day was a 10-player Bomberman game being played up on the big screen in the main room. This was headed up by the lads at AllCast Irish Gamers, who were also the MC for most of the events throughout the conference. These lads know how to work a crowd and kept everyone entertained until the end.

I was in attendance for a few events on the main stage, the first of which being a panel of gamers discussing all things retro. It was interesting to hear other people's ideas about the way retro games are perceived by a modern audience, and do they still hold up as much today as they did when they were first released. They also held a relatively retro quiz which was a good laugh to see go down.

Ansonix was on the music side of entertainment for the day and kicked things off by performing his cover of the Streets of Rage theme song, before playing some of his own original works. I really dig this kind of 8-Bit style and I think Ansonix is someone we're going to be hearing a lot more of in the future. You can check out his music for free over at https://ansonix.bandcamp.com/.

I grabbed a Slushee from the Candy Pop Man and took a seat in time for the cosplay competition, headed up by the Guild of Nerds. Nate ó Cadhla was the MC for the competition, and there was a panel of cosplaying judges; Jichiie, Shonarrrrrgh, and Twin Tails Cosplay. Some of the Cosplayers really put in a lot of love and effort to both their costumes and their cosplay persona. A particual favourite of mine was Deadpool, who I tried to wind up by calling him Deathstroke (he wasn't too happy  about that)…. The Cosplay competition was short and sweet, with the victor being Totoro (from the Studio Ghibli film My Neighbour Totoro).  

The day wound down with the tournament winners competing on the big screen.

My only regret about 8-Bit Conference 2018 was not being able to hang around long enough to enjoy the entire weekend. I feel like I missed out on so much even though I was there for most of the Saturday. Next year I'll make sure to be in attendance for the whole weekend so I don't miss out on the fun. Graeme, and all of team 8-Bit should be really proud that they put on such a fantastic event that catered to the retro needs of veteran gamers, but was also a fun and insightful look for the younger generation. 

My advice for people who would like to attend the conference in future:

Plan your route, Griffith college is located just outside of Dublin City and isn't a central location

Bring money, as there is no ATM on-campus

Most importantly, take part and have fun, you can sit here and read this review all you like, but trust me when I say, you need to be there to get the best out of it.

https://8bitconference.com/

Photos Courteousy of 8-Bit Conference

Partners associated with 8-Bit Conference

Griffith College Dublin

Trust Gaming

Ti.to

Beanbags.ie

Ansonix

The Pulse Group

Emergency Services Training Institute

Buyndplay/Video Games And Consoles Ireland

Republic of Gaming

Inner City Helping Homeless

AllCast Irish Gamers

National Computer & Videogame Museum

Mini Arcade Systems

The R.A.G.E.

LudoSport Ireland - Sporting Light Saber Combat Academy

Loud Room Studios

Bear Sporting Events Limited

Four Star Pizza

RetroGaming.ie

GameVan.ie

CCS Fitouts

Candy Pop Man

Facepainters Dublin

Retro Ralph Gaming

Rewind Retro Gaming

8-Bit Creations

Game Freeze

Like the Bog Flower Designs

Beanie's Art Mart

Guild of Nerds

The 501st Legion

Ghostbusters Ireland

Fierce Fun

Jairo Lopes

Altero-game

Dublin Games Festival 

[colorfulsuitdestiny-blog]

Do I need to have a car before I can ask for car insurance quotes?

"Do I need to have a car before I can ask for car insurance quotes?

Or can I just use any details of a car online to find out how much my insurance will be?

BEST ANSWER:  Try this site where you can compare quotes: : http://freecarinsurance.xyz/index.html?src=tumblr 

RELATED QUESTIONS: 

Is a hatchback (3 door car) considered a sports car with insurance?

if not what is it considered and is the cost higher than a sports car

Transfering Auto/Insurance Title/Policy?

Short story - I did not qualify for vehicle finance - girlfriend finances the vehicle for me. We have 5 day to furnish insurance. How i do go about getting the truck in my name and furnishing insurance on it? I do not have the registration or title (coming in mail). I cant open an insurance policy on a car thats not mine. And if she opens an insurance policy on the car she would have to add me to it (but she's not going to drive it which makes for a waste of money?) Thanks for any help

How do I apply for free health insurance when I have a terminal illness but am still able to work?

I have a terminal illness but I am still able to work, however, I am on COBRA because my last job wrongly fired me. I am not poor but I simply cannot keep paying for COBRA. I cannot go for Medicaid because my good doctor does not accept Medicaid and I do not want to owe lots of money and have to worry about paying it off. I heard there is a program with either Social Security or Medicare where all you need to do is fill out a few forms and get a letter from your doctor stating that you have a terminal illness. Then you will receive health insurance for little or no cost and your doctor has to accept the insurance. Does anyone have any info on this? I am not disabled to the point where I cannot work, but my bills are a lot of money even with the COBRA coverage.""

How much is insurance for teens?

Im almost 16 and im wondering cause my parents dont want to pay 300-400 a month. And i do good in school if that cuts costs down.

Which is the best insurance web site?

I just wanna which is the best insurance quotes website?

""Just got a quote for 10,000 for my car insurance?!?!?""

i was getting a quote from comparison websites and the cheapest quote i received was 10,000. i also put my mother on the policy who has over 25 years driving experience and also switched to third party. what else could i do to lower the insurance costs.. im buying an audi a3 but is there any other way i could lower the insurance, thanks everyone""

Can I buy term life insurance for my aunt who lives in CA?

I live in Florida and was just wondering if I can purchase a term life insurance policy for my aunt in California? Will the term life insurance policy be in my name or her name, because I will be paying for the policy?""

Car insurance. A question about car insurance.?

Hey people. So I haven't brought a car yet. But I was just on the car insurance site today and I decided to fill it in and get an idea of what I may have to pay. And the cheapest I got was 6,241. Now my friend he's 18 years old and he passed he's test last week and has a 2 door ford focus that's not including the trunk/boot and he only pays 1,200 for he's car insurance and all I know is, that he is on somebody else's insurance that has been driving for years. Could anybody explain to me why my car insurance is gonna cost me 6,241 and he's only costs him 1,200. I'm 18 also by the way.""

Where can I get affordable health insurance for my family?

USA 2013, it's now illegal, NOT to have medical insurance for everyone in your family. I get insurance for myself through work, which is mostly paid for by them, except my high deductible and co-pays, which I can barley afford. My wife and kids will cost me over $800.00 per month to insure through my employer. Can't afford that, it's almost as much as my rent. Half the insurance companies I've applied for say I make too much, the other half tell me I don't make enough. What I'm I supposed to do, eat or have insurance? If I just don't buy any, I'll be penalized through taxes at the end of the year. So, does anyone know of any good health insurance companies out there? Thanks.""

Can I get an insurance quote if I am not 16?

Today, I got a moped so that for my birthday, I can go and do my CBT on the day. I want to get a rough price of what I would have to pay for insurance. I would like to know what I would have to pay but as I am not yet 16, I cannot yet get a quote. Does anyone know how to get round this as I do not want to lie about my age. Thanks.""

How much will insurance cost me on a motorcycle around 4-5 k? (Motorcycle year 2005+)?

I am 17 years old, I live in Montreal Quebec, just got my car license and i have no criminal record or anything. I accomplished the car driving course and the motorcycle course. how much will I pay on insurance? I know its hard to answer but like the average/year? and do I have to take both side insurance or only one side? and will it be cheaper if I only take the insurance for summer time and not pay the whole year. and does any one have a good insurance company for me in Montreal. thank you.""

Will simply getting an STI test raise insurance rates?

I was wondering if any doctors or insurance professionals know as fact if insurance rates will increase if someone goes to their primary care physician to get an STI screening, even if they test negative for everything.""

Who has the cheapest Home Owner insurance in Middle TN?

I have a 975sq home. Brick exterior. Crawlspace. asphalt roof shingles, built in 1965, remodeled in 2007. New wiring, plumbing and roof as of 2007. House valued at $125,000. It has a detached carport worth about $5K. I live in Franklin, TN. I need quotes please! email me at vgentry83@yahoo.com""

If I wreck my car while DUI does the insurance company still Fully cover it?

just a curious question. if you are drunk and total your car, nobody else or other property involved, does the insurance company still cover your car to full value? and what source do they use to determine the value of the vehicle?""

2 questions on car insurance?

1) I'm looking to buy a car soon after I pass my driving test in 2 weeks. I'm 20, I'll be turning 21 in November. I seen that the insurance price for a 17-20 year old is around 2400 and the price for a 21-24 year old is around 2000. If I were to get insurance 2 months before my 21st birthday, would I be able to pay 2 monthly rates of the 17-20 year old price and then convert onto the 21-24 year old price? Or am I stuck with the 20 year old price for one year? 2) If I were to set the voluntary excess to a higher amount to get a lower premium, would I be able to change the voluntary excess when I renew my car insurance? Or is it possible to change it every month if I chose to pay monthly? Thanks.""

Is there a time limit for a auto insurance claim to be completed?

I was in a fender bender with another car in a parking lot a month ago. I filed a claim with the other guy's insurance agency the same day as the accident and have yet to be told if the claim was approved or denied. I spoke to my adjuster last week (as well as the week before) and they were still waiting on photos of the other vehicle. Is a month normal? The auto insurance company is Wawanesa. So my questions is...is there some kind of legal time limit for an insurance agency to approve/deny a claim in the state of California? Or might I end up waiting months to hear anything? Thanks.

Ninja 250r Insurance price for 17 year old?

Hi, i am looking to buy a USED ninja 250r when i turn 17. How much would Insurance cost per month? I plan on taking the msf course, and any other program that could lower my insurance rate. Thanks!""

Insurance For A 1999 or 2000 328CI Manual BMW And Im 18 How Much A Year And Month?

i want to get one a 1999 manual model or a 2000 manual model how much will it cost per year and monthly

Not sure how much condo insurance to get?

I'm in the process of buying a condo, and I need to have condo insurance set up. However, I'm not really sure how much insurance I need on a condo. The homeowners association covers everything on the outside, so I would only need to cover walls-in. This is what I've come up with after doing a quote: Contents Amount: $50,000 Building Property Coverage: $15,000 Condominium Loss Assessments: $1,000 Deductible: $500 Earthquake Deductible: 2% Personal Liability: $300,000 Medical Payments to Others: $1,000 The condo is selling for $125,900. I really don't have a lot of furniture, and what I do have is all hand-me-downs. I have a four year old, so all the furniture and stuff that comes along with having a kid. I don't have really nice jewelry. I have a 32inch hd tv, computer (i paid 150 for it, so nothing fancy lol), and a kindle fire, wii....that's about it for electronics. I want to make sure I have enough coverage if something happens with counters/floor/walls/etc, but I don't want to be unnecessarily paying a high insurance bill. Any suggestions? Also, is earthquake or identity theft something that would be good to add in? I live in Iowa so earthquakes aren't really an issue...but is that one of those you never know, so at least you're covered things?""

Medicinal marijuana and health insurance?

So I live in California and have entertained the idea of getting a medicinal marijuana card, but the thing that always holds me back in the end is the fear that somehow my name would go on some list that insurance companies would have access to, and then proceed to jack up my premiums due to me being flagged a smoker. Does anybody have any insight regarding this? For those of you that have medical cards... did you see an increase in your monthly bill from your health insurance after signing up for the card? I know about doctor/patient confidentiality, but still... legal marijuana is still too new, so I'm being overly cautious, ESPECIALLY when it comes to health insurance premiums. Thanks in advance. -C""

""How much will I have to put down and pay every month if I want to purchase a $30,000 car?What about insurance?""

-first time buyer -New York State -Salary is b/w 35,000-48,000 -always on time with my credit payments""

Where is some good places (affordable) to get health insurance for the unemployed ( like babysitters)?

Where is some good places (affordable) to get health insurance for the unemployed ( like babysitters)?

Why have all the cheap car insurance companies disappeared from go compare?

I've finally got a car sorted and logged back into go compare for a quote and all the cheap insurers like elephant and admiral aren't there. The quotes are horrendous, any idea why?""

Can i buy my own health insurance?

Can i buy my own health insurance? i'm 17.

New health insurance law I'm so confused?

My husband is half Indian so he can go to the Indian clinic whenever he wants and it's free. Does that mean he still needs insurance?

Do I need to have a car before I can ask for car insurance quotes?

Or can I just use any details of a car online to find out how much my insurance will be?

What is the cheapest insurance in north carolina on a car thats financed?

What is the cheapest insurance in north carolina on a car thats financed?

""Can I drive without insurance, if the car itself is insured?""

It's my dad's car. The car is insured but i am not, as in. I use to be on the same policy as my dad, but now i am off of it due to money problems. But the car I drive is insured under my dad. Is it legal to drive it? (CA)""

Do i need to list the second driver on my insurance policy?

If they aren't registerd to the vehicle but drive it often do they need to be on the policy at all? Im paying way too much with two currently...

My grandma says TEENAGERS arent covered on her car insurance. Is this possible?

i want to drive her car cause im 16 and just got my temps a couple weeks ago and all she keeps saying is that her insurance only covers people 21 and older. i totally think shes lying! cant anyone drive the car? the insurance is already one the CAR, not the person, so shouldnt the insurance cover the car regaurdless on who's driving??""

Does it make sense to use a local car insurance company instead of a big national one?

Does it make sense to use a local car insurance company instead of a big national one?

Insurance question when you buy a used car?

If you buy a used car and pay cash and carry only the minimum insurance for your state will your current rate go up based on the model and make of the car. Also if you buy a used car and finance it you have to have collision on it right ?

What car insurance company is affordable for a student with a part time job with a fair amount of pay?

What car insurance company is affordable for a student with a part time job with a fair amount of pay?

Car insurance question?

If i have my own car titled in my name, could my parents put me under their insurance so my car is insured, or does the car have to be titled in my parents name? It would be alot cheaper for me that way. Thanks.""

How much is it to insure a replica car ?

Im looking to buy a replica lamborghini Aventador but was wondering if the insurance would be to high to handle. I live in Ontario, Canada Thanks""

How much does Adderall cost?

Per pill? per prescription bottle ?

What to do when you have lost your insurance documents?

i lost my life insurance documents what should be my next step

So where do I get health insurance?

My job doesn't give me health insurance and I'm usually broke and mommy and daddy can't get it for me. Where do I go to get health insurance?

Would insurance for a VW Golf be cheap or expensive?

I'm 17 years old currently doing driving lessons and I'm thinking about a VW Golf for my first car. Would the insurance be high or low and which engine size would be the best to start off with?

Hit and Run Insurance Claim: How do you go about it?

I have case # from the police. Will the Insurance company send someone to check the car or should I have to get them quotes?

My 18 year old daughter needs cheap car insurance.?

My 18 year old daughter passed her driving test today and is struggling to find reasonably cheap insurance. She has tried all of the main players and has gone through the various comparison sites but hasn't found anything below 1700 and if she asks for monthly payments then the price goes up by 50%. Does anyone know of any companies who specialise in young new drivers, maybe who provide insurance on a three or six monthly basis? Grateful for any and all suggestions. Thank you.""

How much roughly with motorcycle insurance be for me?

Im 17 and looking to see how much insurance is for when i get my motorbike. Im looking to get a 125CC motorbike second hand nothing fast. How much roughly do you think? Im don't care if the insurance is only for theft and accidents coverage. the bike will be stored in a garage and be locked up.

How much roughly would car insurance be for a new male driver aged 25?

My husband is going to take his driving test soon so we can buy a car but i dont know how much to budget in for car insurance as neither of us has driven before and haven't dealt with car insurance before. We would probably just buy a cheap runaround like a ford fiesta 1.4 engine or a car like this (roughly 500 in value) and wondered hw much we should expect to pay for a years insurance on this. i know it will be more expensive than other drivers as its for a new driver and a male but I would really appreciate it if someone could give me a rough figure. thanks :D ps. i dont need links to any comparison sites as they only work if you have a car already and all the details! thankyou! :)

I live in Austin. The business I work for is closing down. I will probably be offered a job in San Antonio.?

For several reasons I can't move there. Will I be eligible for Unemployement Insurance if I turn it down?

""Dont know how much car insurance will be, i will be a beginner driver?""

I am going to be driving in a year or two and i have been looking at Jeep Rubicons 4x4, 4 door im not sure how much insurace will be.""

Car insurance__________________?

How much do you pay for car insurance? (in a year), mine is going to expire in november (november, 30) when I am supposed to go to the agency to renew it? Can I go for example on november 1st?""

""If my mom adds me onto her car insurance, about how much would it go up?""

I'm 17 Shes with GEICO Its a Buick Rendezvous SUV (2004) Our zip is 33312 (South florida, if this helps for those answering that may be in my area) I have a clean record B Average in school""

Third party fire and theft? car insurance?

hi im currently searching for car insurance and ive been quoted 2800 for comprehensive insurance and when i gave third party fire and theft it came out to 1700 the car is a corsa 998c 2006 what is the difference between them both? thanks

Question about auto insurance claim pay?

Someone I know got into an auto accident (backed into a parked car). Both parties are insured. The guy I know filed an insurance claim and they find him 100% at fault (duh), but the insurer will not give him any money as a result of this. I've never had to file any auto claims in all my time driving (thankfully), so I don't know as to whether what happened is what's supposed to happen. If you're 100% at fault, is it standard for insurers to give no payout at all? I don't know the terms of this guy's insurance policy (told me he uses farmer's insurance, if that matters, not Geico or some other budget insurer), but I thought the purpose of insurance is to cover yourself in the event of accidents, whether you're at fault or not. Should I tell him to appeal, or something, or is the insurance company 100% justified in their decision?""

""How much would cost a BMW325 coupe car insurance in london? car is worth 15.000, 3 years old, held in garage.""

How much would cost a BMW325 coupe car insurance in london? car is worth 15.000, 3 years old, held in garage.""

Does anyone know of any ortho dental insurance (cheap or reasonable) in Texas? ?

I need braces... I have Blue Cross Insurance but ortho isnt incuded in my plan. I am with Blue Cross through my job. I am so upset! I need this done. Or is there a place where I can get them for really cheap? (Braces)? Thanx for your help.

Do I need to have a car before I can ask for car insurance quotes?

Or can I just use any details of a car online to find out how much my insurance will be?

Why do I have to pay to insure other people's children?

I have little compassion for those that say they cannot afford to insure their children. #1 - don't have children if you can't afford them; then don't expect me to pay for the ones you can't afford. #2 - it doesn't cost that much to insure a child; part of a parents responsibility is to sacrafice for the sake of their children. Case in point - I have an acquaintance whose parents both worked and they made just above the cut-off for getting government help for insurance. What did they do? They went out and bought 2 brand new motorcycles, helmets, chaps, gloves and boots, so they could take their little darling on wonderful family outings. That money would have went a long way to insuring them, huh? Am I unreasonable?""

Cheap Car Insurance for Hobby Vehicle?

Hi, i've just completed a rally across europe, and i've fallen in love with one of the cars on it. Only thing is its not something i can afford to drive everyday, so i'm looking at getting the car (Vauxhall Calibra) and keeping it at home and just using it for shows and maybe a few drives in the country. Does anyone know of a cheap insurance company. Details are: Young Driver, 20, Student Limited millage (1500-2000 miles absolute tops) Vauxhall Calibra 2.0 16v I don't want it to go boy racing, just to look after and give me something to do!! My mate mentioned a insurance company in Ireland which gave him a quote on a Impreza turbo for like 700 (same age as me), but i can't remember the name of it. Only that its in ireland! Any help is really appreciated""

Top 10 low insurance and tax cars in insurance group 1?

just wanted little info about top 10 cars that are: 1.0 - 1.2 litre engine Insurance group 1 Low road tax

Car insurance canceled my policy. i got in an accident and then paid the money. they accepted the money and?

then refused to cover the accident. i was told since they accepted the money and didn't make me open a new policy with a new down payment. and didn't give me my money back ...show more

Were do i get classic insurance for 91 calibra 4x4 turbo.?

Were do i get classic insurance for 91 calibra 4x4 turbo.?

Will my insurance be raised because someone else got a ticket in my car?

My boyfriend was driving my car and got a texting ticket. Will my insurance rate increase?

Best way to find affordable therapy for a teenager with depression?

I'm seventeen years old and I think I have depression. All teenagers are emotional, I get that, but I know this is more. When I'm occupied and around people for a few hours at a time or less, I'm fine and usually even happy. Then when I actually have time to stop and think and let my mind wander, I usually feel kind of hopeless and just very sad. I also have other emotional issues, like the littlest things seem to enrage me. Also, I read somewhere that depression can cause physical issues such as digestive issues (which I have been having a lot of the past four or five months). I cancel plans a lot now, either because my stomach is acting up or I feel too sad to go anywhere and I just dont want to be bothered with people. Ive been sleeping a lot more than normal lately because thats the only time things dont bother me. When I was about thirteen I had an issue with cutting, I would talk to my guidance counselor (which is not an option now because I did home schooling and now am done with school until college next fall) and when she realized that I may have some more serious issues, she called my mom. My mom always brushed it off. She talked to me a total of one time, only when I went to my older cousin and my cousin forced my mother to talk to me. Basically, my mom got mad because I said I didnt feel comfortable talking to her and she refused to send me to a counselor, then she said she would send me to a counselor (at that time I had insurance) but she never actually ended up doing anything. So I went back to doing what I always do, pretending to be fine, and for the most part I controlled it. I stopped cutting until about seven months ago, which was also when all my other issues started popping up. I havent cut myself in a few months now, but I still have the urge to which is not okay. Depression and other mental health issues run in my family, and I keep thinking of one particular relative who got so bad that she took her own life. I know that at some point she must have been like me, where it was difficult but still somewhat manageable, and it just scares me that I could get to the point she was at. I have no insurance, and we have very little money. I know Yahoo Answers isnt the ideal place to seek advice, but I dont know where to go. I only have one true friend that I trusted enough to tell, and obviously she is my age so shes just as clueless as me. Then I have tried talking to my older cousin (not the same one I mentioned before, she and I dont talk anymore) but in her world even if the money is not readily available, when its needed they find a way, so she doesnt get the concept when I tell her I really do NOT have the money for a psychologist or insurance. Is there any websites or anything that provide information on free or more affordable counseling for teens? Im ready to admit that I need help I just need to find somebody actually willing and able to give it to me.""

What will the insurance cost be for a 2008 Mustang GT?

Ok, my son is about to turn 16 and his mother and I want to suprise him with a new 2008 Mustang GT premium. http://www.fordvehicles.com/cars/mustang/models/index.asp?v=html# That is the page that shows the models of all mustangs and we chose the GT premium for him. The car will go in his mothers name, so how much do you think the insurance will be?""

What's the Fastest way to be approved for disability in MA?

And for God sakes don't answer - to be legitimately disabled. That's obvious!!! I have chronic colitis, I'm frequently sick to my stomach and don't have insurance yet. I go to food banks to eat and can barely afford to even live much less do anything slightly fun. I really need disability and know people that have got it because they say they're depressed when their fine (as they told me). So please don't be cruel with a stupid answer. Any real tips?""

If i got a car as a gift and dont have insurance and a car hits me is that ok?

my friend gave me a car and i dont have insurance, but a guy hit me this morning, will his insurance pay for it?""

What do I look for when buying car insurance?

I had car insurance with my parents for a while and I want to get my own. Im not sure what to look for and what companies are the best. Please help. thanks.

18 year old motorcycle insurance Toronto Canada?

Hi, I am 18 years old, I passed my M1 2 days ago and i have no driving record. My motorcycle is a hyosung gt250 (250cc) and I am looking for insurance. However I'm having the hardest time finding anyone to insure me. So my question is does anyone know an insurance company that will insure an 18 year old with no driving record, no safety course (I've been riding motorcycles (dirt bikes) ever since i was 8 so i don't need it) and an M1 licence? thanks Location: Toronto Ontario""

Whats the best and affordable health plan to get?

I have never gotten health insurance my whole life and for once in my life I am getting it for myself. I want to go see a dermatologist, and its way too expensive to pay out of pocket, whats a good and affordable health plan should I get? Got any suggestion to where I can go and get some help? Anything will be great, thanks!!!!""

How much would my car insurance be...???

Texas Female 18 years old good driving record 2007 Honda Civic Coupe or 2006 TC Scion Also what other information should I add if this is not enough?

Where is the cheapest place to get motorcycle insurance in Michigan?

Its for a 2006 Yamaha R6!

Home owners insurance check made out to mortgage company and me?

Evidently my insurance co made out the check to both myself and my mortgage bank (too bad I didn't realize it before I deposited it at the ATM this morning...) for siding and roof hail damage. I was on hold for over 40 minutes today waiting to talk to a rep at the mortgage bank (PNC). I hung up and will call back tomorrow when I have more time to listen to bad music. What's the normal procedure for handling this? The check was only for $6800. I may hold off a bit on some of the repair, and do some of it myself. I've already made arrangements for a window replacement ($900 vs the $450 the ins co gave me). There's a PNC Bank just down the street. Any ideas on whether they can handle it there?""

Do life insurance companies check your medical records after you die?

Let's say that you get life insurance and claim to be a non-smoker. Then let's say that you start smoking or resume smoking. Assuming that your medical records show that you ...show more

How Much Would Insurance Cost On A Mitsubishi Lancer Evo?

What would be an approximate range on insurance cost for me? I was considering buying a mitsubishi lancer evo and need to factor in the cost of insurance. It would most likely be a 2003. Model: Mitsubishi Lancer Evo Car: Year 2003 Age: I am 16 soon too be 17 State: Oklahoma Occupation: Student (3.5 gpa+) Other Info: I would most likely only drive to school and the gym 5 days a week, less than 10 iles a day round trip. I would be able to pay a higher deductable if need be. Live: with parents Background: Father is a Radiologist - Income: easily 300k+ Although I come from a very affluent family my parents are making me pay for most of my car If I am lucky they will give me a 10k allowance max.""

Which car insurance doesn't charge for points?

I went to traffic school for two speeding tickets last year, however when I received a quote they ran my drivers license and saw I had two points on my driving record and my rates sky rocketed. The speeding infractions remained on my DMV record but I do not reflect any points because I completed traffic school. I heard that some car insurers don't necessarily go by the points, but they go by infractions... WHICH car insurer will ignore the points as a result of my completing traffic school? ps. i live in california Thanks in advance.""

I'd like a bigger bike but what will the insurance cost me?

I'm looking to trade in my 125cc for a bigger bike, most likely a 600cc, but I'm wondering what the insurance will be considering I have 3 points on my license for speeding. I'm looking to get it for my 18th, and it will be restricted to 33bhp. Can anyone give me a ballpark figure of what the insurance will be? And what bike should I get?""

How to find free medical insurance?

i m cheap person who work partime and i can t afford to pay alot money so do u guys know any free medical insurance or dental ?

Can someone give me advice on starting a car service?

If someone can gear in the right direction to start a car/limo service that would be greatly apperciated. How much is the insurance around for say about three Town cars? What else do you need that is important for this type of business?

""My car's engine died, therefore I never renewed my car insurance. How can I get my DL reinstated?""

In the meantime, I moved. Even though I provided the agencies with my new address & my email address, I was never properly notified from the insurance company or the DMV office. Now, I discovered my driver's license has been suspended for lack of car insurance. If my car was operable, I would have renewed my insurance. I've always had car insurance, just thought it would be no big deal not renewing it. Also, I have a bill from my auto mechanic stating my car has engine damage and needs a new engine. Is there any way to correct this without paying the reinstatement fee to the DMV? Thanks for any advice!""

Life and income insurance?

If I started income and life insurance when i started property investment for investment purpose only to cover investment,are the monthly premiums tax deductible""

I got pulled over in my parents car and the insurance wasn't in the vehicle?

Ok I moved out of my parents home a couple months ago and they let me borrow their car for a little while just in case of an emergency, well I asked them if I could drive to see my girlfriend and they said yes so I drive and I get pulled over for speeding and I give the officer my license, registration but my dad forgot to leave the insurance in the car! So I get a huge fine for speeding and having no proof of insurance! And I asked my dad if I was under the insurance and he said no because I don't own a car and I don't live with them so what would be the point? So what I'm trying to ask is will I be able to get the no insurance fine waived even though I'm not under the insurance my parents were just letting my borrow the car?""

Do I need to have a car before I can ask for car insurance quotes?

Or can I just use any details of a car online to find out how much my insurance will be?

Question about teenager insurance?

if i put my son on my insurance policy and he gets into an accident with his own car does my insurance go up. or does his when he turns 18. also how much? would it double?

Where can we find cheap life insurance?

Where can we find cheap life insurance?

Car insurance sellsman salary?

I have a question if anyone is in the car insurance business. My husband has been out of work for quite sometime, hes been really looking for a job anything right now, and got called back from a car insurance place he applied for i really dont know money wise, if it makes ok money they told him its salary and comission, i hate those kind of jobs. So im not so much knowledgable when it comes to the word salary and in that job description, anyone know if it pays alright.""

I need to have all my teeth removed and have dentures in California?

The dentist gave me an approximate estimate of about 11 thousand dollars, I have no insurance, and bad credit, is this estimate fair?""

What kind of car is cheapest to insure?

I'm a 16 year old dude looking for a car. I've been looking for a few weeks now and I've noticed different cars cost different amounts to insure. Also I was looking for a used car that's around 3000$. So I was wondering in general what kind of car ( body style, make, model, color, automatic/standard) would cost me the least to insure because I have to pay my own insurance.""

Liability car insurance?

Im 18, never had a wreck or any tickets, i live in a small town/rural area in alabama, and i want to know about how much liability insurance would be for a... -2008 mustang -2010 mustang -2012 mustang""

Car insurance keeps going up despite excellent driving record?

I have had car insurance through shelter for going on 4 years.ive had no traffic tickets at all no accidents nothing ! But yet my monthly amount keeps changing.It has went from around $92 then I added a my car alarm system got a discount it went to $72 for a few months.then to $82. For the past 4 months now I got a letter saying my next payment due is $107 . That $20 dollar increase.??? I'm getting very fed up with shelter I'm a new mom and it's hard enough to pay my bills as it is I recently got married does that change ur car insurance ? He has no license because of something that happened around 10 years ago . When i report I'm married is it going to help or hurt me? I do not have any intentions of adding him to my policy but just was wondering if I will get a discount from being (married) now? I know most company's give discounts because they seem to think married ppl drive more safely.

About my leased car insurance?

I have a nissan 2009 lease, I have two questions: 1. do I need to purchase PIP insurance? also a $750 deductible in comprehensive and collision is ok? 2. My boyfriend lives with me and he has his own commercial car insurance, I drive my car the most, do I need to add him in my quote? He drives the car perhaps on Sundays when we go out other than that I drive the car most of the time. Thanks for your answers""

Insurance for teenagers?

So i'm gonna get my car/license in a month and i was wondering how much insurance was on average for teens?? Also, how much would it be if i got a sports car? Like a mustang""

Insurance or no insurance?

My husband told me he wants out. We have been married for a long time. He doesn't want to tell anyone and he keeps saying he is leaving but he's not. (I don't want him to go so that part is fine.) My problem is my company has been our families insurance, I pick up the premium through payroll deduction. Now is the time to make any changes and I only have til the first of July to do this until next year. Should I drop his coverage and let him fend for himself or do I just keep paying for the family plan as always.""

What whole life insurance policy is best for a 24 year old?

I have a policy from New York Life, but 2 of my friends who are financial planners, say Mass Mutual would be better... there's a bunch of baloney I'm not understanding i.e. guaranteed benefits, crap about withdrawing money for retirement. Altogether, it doesn't seem like I am getting that much from death benefits with the amount I am putting in ($1K/year until pretty much I'm 65). I don't want to pay forever for this... where in my policy does it say when I can stop paying?""

Anyone know of any affordable dental insurance? ?

i work full time, and want to have some dental work done, i was looking online, not having any luck.""

How much would car insurance be for this person?

for a girl 16 years old, doesnt own a car in the state of NJ. any more info ill be glad to help. im asking because i want to know about how much it will cost will different insurances for me alone.""

1 Day Car Insurance?

Does anyone know of companies that offer one day car insurance for 20yr old they all seem to be 25 and over why is that.....

Should I get Car Insurance before I get my N?

My parents want me to get a car, and insurance for that car. So i can learn on it and get My N. They wont teach me on their car. But you see. I think it would be a waste of money to get insurance for my car considering I would be learning on it maybe once a week. And for three months of insurance, it is $400. Honestly, I think it would be best to take lessons, get my N, then get a car and insurance. But I wanted another opinion. Any advice you can offer would be great. Thank You!""

What health care insurance I can get that is affordable?

I need health insurance. And I can't afford it with my pay checks. I work part time. I have research over and over for health insurance. And nothing that I can afford comes up. So please help.

List of cheap auto insurance in Georgia $40-$50 a month?

cheap auto insurance in Georgia .looking for where I can pay btw $40-$50 a month

Where to Get Free Auto Insurance Quotes online?

I live in California USA. I heard from peoples that its best to have Car insurance Online Quotes free from some trusted online Car Insurance Service. Anyone please help me in getting online cheap motor insurance Quotes for my Car. Regards

""Have SR-22 insurance, can I switch insurance companies?""

Hi, I've had sr-22 insurance through geico for a little over a year now, however due to recently moving to florida my monthly payments have gone through the roof. Do I have the option of switching to a cheaper insurance company without having to restart the 3 year mandatory holding of the sr-22?""

What insurance group is a 1965 FORD MUSTANG FASTBACK?

What insurance group is a 1965 FORD MUSTANG FASTBACK?

Is a life insurance that terms at age 95 a good one?

I just reviewed my life insurance and saw that it termed at age 95..I'm not sure if that is good or bad...please help!

Is my car insurance going to be cheaper because i getting a learners permit first?

Is my car insurance going to be cheaper because i getting a learners permit first?

How much would Insurance for a bike?

I want to get a 2005 YZR-R6 by yamaha. I dont have my motorcycle licence and im 17 years old. I will get my first written (m1) licence soon. the bike is cheap but im woried about insurance. For motorcycle insurance do you pay it for all 12 months? I will only be riding it in the summer time anyways so do companies allow you to only pay for 3-4 months?

How much would the insurance for the 16 year old with a 07 impala?

I am 16 years old and have been working for awhile, i have been working for a new car. i have found this 07 impala that is in GREAT condition. I need a rough estimate of what my insurance might be if I get this car.""

Single input multiple quote car insurance?

looking for multiple quotes on car insurance with single information input

Do I need to have a car before I can ask for car insurance quotes?

Or can I just use any details of a car online to find out how much my insurance will be?

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/car-insurance-17-year-old-anthony-hopper/"