This article is guest-posted by Jovy Soriano, who I recently featured in my Gamer Profile section. Jovy’s also one of my mods, an elite privileged few tasked to maintain order at my Facebook Fan Page

I opened guest posting in my blog in order to develop young talent, to help them harness their writing skills and for them to share their knowledge and talent to the entire world (and the whole geek/gaming community).

Nice work here by Jovy as she reviews a game she recently played. I also played this game and it’s one awesome Fantasy adventure.

Without further ado…

Dragon Age Origins Review – By Jovy Soriano

From the creator of Mass Effect™, Star Wars®: Knights of the Old Republic™ and Baldur’s Gate™, comes an epic tale of Violence, Lust and Betrayal. One of the most outstanding RPGs of all time, none other than the truly epic fantasy adventure of Dragon Age: Origins (DAO), no wonder BioWare has once again struck RPG Gold according to Game Pro, other Professional Gaming Sites and of course the players. Dragon Age: Origins was released November 3, 2009, but it’s better to be late than never. It’s available on PC, Play Station 3 and Xbox 360. (Note: RPG OF 2009, I’m sure you get the picture.)

The game has mature content preferably for 17 years old above, it has Blood and I mean Pool of Blood, Intense Violence and Language, Partial Nudity and Sexual Content, but how can you resist playing this awesome game? It’s one of the most realistic games I’ve ever played and you’ll be playing, LOL! You’re probably thinking, “nah!?, It’s just like other RPG’s..” You’re right! In which the normal case we play the hero, save the princess, save the world and save the day! It’s getting lame right? But Dragon Age: Origins is a lot different from them. In this game, you’ll be the writer of your own story.

What are we expecting?
The game was set in the Kingdom of Fereleden, one of the several Kingdoms in the continent of Thedas. We have three different races in the game, the Elves, Dwarves and of course the Humans. You’ll be choosing your character including its Gender, Race, Job Class and Background.

Remember that some races are restricted for some job class, example a dwarf can never be a mage and if you’ll be playing the game you’ll learn why it’s not possible. It also incorporates “Origins” to what background and race your character came from, let’s say you choose to be a Noble Dwarf, you’ll start as a son or a daughter of a Royal Family, but if you choose to be a Commoner Dwarf, you’ll start in the streets of commoner in Orzanmar (City of Dwarves). Your origins will determine the background story of your desired character and will be your official start to the main story, but don’t ever underestimate this thing because it will consume you gaming hours and the best part is, it will be your identity throughout the entire game. As for my game, I chose to be a Female Human Mage and started as an apprentice of higher knowledge.

By the way, I’m sure you have an idea on how Skill Points and Status Points work, right? Well in this game, you can allocate those, and you can even put them in your hot key bar just like in my screenshot fighting with the Dragon. I almost forgot to mention that when you advance in the game, you can later choose a Specialization Job Class for your character? And that’s for you to find out, how?

Now you’re probably thinking, “You talk too much! How the hell it’s different from other RPG’s?” Did I mention, you’ll be the writer of your own story, well not literally? There are two things that makes it original from other RPG’s, one is the Background of your character as you’ve read few seconds or minutes ago. Second is the Moral Choices, not like a normal moral choices in some other video games in which you’ll be given an option of a “yes” or a “no”, and to whatever you’ve decided the outcome will just be the same in the end. You’ll be getting a lot of cut scenes with moral choices in the game and these choices is for you to decide thus will be shaping the whole story of your adventure, just imagine it.

Just a piece of advice, don’t expect an average Hack and Slash game. In DAO, you have to use your brain before you engage in a battle and use strategies in order to be victorious. And no matter how strong you think you are, you’re never going to be imba! That’s one of the big challenges in the game.

Added Adventures
BioWare loves DLC (Downloadable Content) as well as the players, I guess for marketing purposes if you know what I mean. Not only for that, but for the very reason that they want their players to love the game even more and they don’t want their avid fans to lose interest in the game before the new series comes out. They also release newest expansion of the game, the Dragon Age: Origins Awakening that was release March 16, 2010. Lots of DLC’s has been release after the game launching but the latest DLC would probably be the Dragon Age: Origins Darkspawn Chronicles just this last May 18, and I bet there’s more to come. These DLC’s and Expansions will be added to your adventure and will be the answers to your questions, if you’ve happen to play the game though.

Thanks 4 Reading!

Thanks to BioWare for making great games. Thanks to GMT for this guest-posting opportunity and for My Gamer Profile, I owe you big-time Sir. And if you have any questions, inquiries about the game don’t hesitate to ask me, I’m just a whisper away. Don’t forget to drop by at my blog site Gamer+Citadel for the latest video games, news, reviews and trailers. And Before I forgot, click this link for the official Dragon Age: Origins This is War Music Video Trailer. Try not to get too pumped up, okay! *wink*

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Thanks Jovy for a wonderful article. Thanks also for being active in my Facebook page and being a great friend.

Yours,

GM T

I’d like you to meet our newest featured gamer for our Gamer Profiles, Jomay! Jomay loves to play Ragnarok and shares her story with us.

Without further ado…

Real Life Full Name: Jomarie Ann Rivera

Nickname: Jomay, Joan, Moj

Age: 19

Sex: Female

Location: Manila

Websites and Social Media

• My facebook Account
• My Blog Page
• My Guild’s Page (proud to be one)

MMORPG Currently Playing: Lately, I’m addicted to Philippine Ragnarok Online seriously.

Forum Handle: jomaybabe

Main Character Name: carbonara

Server: Valkyrie

Player Association (Guild or Clan): Team Punishment before, and now known as Swaggers.

INTERVIEW QUESTIONS

How long have you played your current MMORPG? I started playing PRO when I was a 1st yr high school student. So it’s almost 7 years and counting…..

What other MMOs have you played? Audition, Crazy Cart, Hello Kitty Online, Luna, Pangya, Dota, KOS……. to name a few…

What type of work do you do? I’m a scholar collegian (graduating), so I make myself busy with paper works and PRO ofcourse.

How long is your typical gaming session when playing your current MMORPG? My playing time depends on my schedule at school. Since its still vacation, I’ve got all day long playing my favorite online game/mmorpg. But during school days, if I have a lot of things to finish, I just spend a little time playing, maybe for about 2-4hrs straight.

What does a typical day consist of for you? Every day matters for me, so I live each day in a very different way because I’m not comfortable in doing the same thing over and over again. I awake, eat, bath and go to sleep at different time each day. But the best thing for me to do every day is to sat in front of the computer 95%. Carpe Diem!

What was the race and profession of your very first character? High Priestess

What is your highest character level in your current MMORPG? 93

What got you into gaming and what sort of games do you like the most? I like to play most of the time with online games. I first got addicted with PRO and until now, I still love playing this game. I actually gained new friends and enjoy every event of the game such as war of emperium, boss hunts, battleground, pvp and pk. I got a whole bunch of games installed at my laptop such as life simulation games which is Sims; battle realms which includes World of Warcraft and Yuri’s Revenge. I play Facebook games too which were fairly interesting.

What other hobbies or activities do you take part in, other then playing your current MMORPG or video games? Practice my editing skills of photos and videos, capture real life scenes ( well, I love photography ), a little bit of dancing and perform at school activities ( my passion ), and strangely addicted in buying clothes.

What do you like the most about the profession you have chosen for your main character? She is one of the High Priestesses in Valkyrie. It’s very easy to manage, since she just gives full support with her partymates / guildmates or any player in every encounter with monsters. She has this TLC – tender loving care which makes her more unique among any other character.

How did you choose your main character’s name? I decided to name my character carbonara` because my boyfriend’s character’s name is spaghetti. It’s unique than any other name ( in my opinion ofcourse ) And also, Carbonara is my favorite pasta, and hates to eat Spaghetti.

What do you like best about Current MMORPG? I love to gain new friends and bond with my boyfriend and guildmates in Swaggers through online.

What do you get out of playing games? Well, I feel happy whenever I go online and play with my friends in game. For me, playing games helps me remove stressors in my life. I consider this as part of my relaxation techniques.

Tell us of a significant “gaming or MMORPG blooper” (funniest moment) that you were directly involved in? I think this is not just funny but total embarassment too. This just happened last Saturday, during war of emperium with my guildmates. As a High Priestress, I am the buffer and the healer, but there was a time during that siege period I activated my effect off to reduce lag and disconnection. Then I was wondering why is it I can’t use my skills so that I could buffs my guildmates, thinking it is just because of some gravity errors. Then for about a couple of minutes I still can’t use my skills, then eventually I asked my guildmates, “TEKA, BAKIT GANON? HINDI KO KAYO MA-BUFFS?” They just all replied me with a laughing emoticon, and I replied them “?????” then one of my guildmates ( Mamabear ) said “Ate, nasa ROKI’s WELL po kayo.. kaya ganon..” I was totally embarrassed, laughed at them too and answered “ HAHAHAHA. SORRY NAMAN, NKA EFFECT OFF AKO HAHA” but in the back of my mind, “Nakakahiya naman iyon haha!” Well, atleast I was able to break the silence and seriousness of my guildmates during that siege time.

What’s the most unforgettable thing that happened to you as a gamer? Just like what I’ve answered at the previous question, I love to gain new friends, and so with the help of online games, I met new friends, in game and in real life. Learning and discovering new things with friends is wonderful.

Your message to your fellow gamers? I’ve seen people who quit the game and delete their characters, and almost all come back and play addictively again. It’s not bad to get addicted but don’t let games ruin your life, just enjoy and enjoy! Play each day like it’s your last day tomorrow. Have Fun and Goodluck!\

GM T’s SHORTS
1. Joystick or Gamepad? Gamepad
2. Cheating before finish or finish first before cheating? I’ll cheat when I find it hard to finish! HAHA!
3. F2P or Subscription? F2P
4. Sony, Microsoft (Xbox) or Nintendo? Sony
5. What is your definition of a noob? Newbie / Beginner / Inexperienced
6. Favorite gaming “term” or lingo? Weak!
7. If video games did not exist, what would be the replacement? Malling at daytime, Bar Hoppin’ at nighttime
8. Complete the sentence. Girl Gamers are… Hot. HAHA! Just kidding!
9. Complete the sentence. Game Masters should… respected.
10. Mercedes Benz or BMW? BMW
11. Beer or Liquor? None
12. Favorite Movie: Windstruck (Highly recommended)
13. Favorite Book: Purpose Driven Life
14. Favorite Game (of all time): Sims 1, 2 & 3
15. Favorite TV Show: Dore the Explorer
16. Favorite Music Artist: My boyfriend (Kiko Mateo)

Thanks for your time Jomay! It was an honor doing the interview. For more of Jomay, connect with her via Facebook and then make sure to become my Facebook Fan too for more cool gaming and MMORPG updates, news and blog posts.

Don’t forget to SHARE this story below with the FACEBOOK SHARE BUTTON (you must be logged in to Facebook). Thanks!

SPONSOR

• This post was brought to you by the Red Fox Moment Facebook Contest (Win a brand new Redfox Laptop now!)

It’s been a while since I got submissions for Gamer Profile. One of the probable reasons could be that my contact form page has been busted for quite a long time now. Good thing I repaired it.

Now, time to feature the latest Pinoy gamer, Jovy Soriano. Jovy’s a fresh grad who’s really into MMORPGs and is also active in my Facebook page.

Full interview with Jovy after the break…

PROFILE
Real Life Full Name: Jovy B. Soriano
Nickname: Jovy
Age: 20
Sex: Female
Location: Tondo, Manila
Websites and SNS:

• Facebook
• Blog
• Guild

MMORPG Currently Playing: Waiting for Star Wars The Old Republic Online and before I was really really addicted to Rohan Ph. So I guess I’ll talk more about my previous MMO.
Forum Handle: LadyGamer
Main Character Name: BlackRose
Server: Syrephis
Player Association (Guild or Clan): AzureKnights

INTERVIEW

How long have you played your current MMORPG? 8 months
What other MMOs have you played? Ragnarok Online, Ran Online, Perfect World, Audition, ROSE Online, Aion Online, Grand Fantasia, Aika Online. And I can’t remember others.
What type of work do you do? I’m just a fresh graduate so I plan to rest and play LOL!
How long is your typical gaming session when playing your current MMORPG? When I’m busy I usually play for about 5 to 6 hours, and when I’m not, I can play for about 12 to 19 hours, seriously.
What does a typical day consist of for you? Wake up, have breakfast, play a computer or console game depends on what I’m currently addicted to, have lunch, play again, have dinner, play again. And sleep!
What was the race and profession of your very first character? Elf Templar
What is your highest character level in your current MMORPG? 98
What got you into gaming and what sort of games do you like the most? If there’s new blockbuster MMO, obviously I’ll play, be addicted to it, grind and level up as fast as I can, meet new friends etc. But if none, then I’ll play tons of PC and console games.
What other hobbies or activities do you take part in, other then playing your current MMORPG or video games? Drawing and watch TV
What do you like the most about the profession you have chosen for your main character? She is PK oriented character, reflect and dispel skills are imba!
How did you choose your main character’s name? BlackRose came from .hack//Link anime and .hack//Games a PS2 game. She is the main female protagonist of “The World” an imaginary online game.
What do you like best about Current MMORPG? I meet new friends and new enemies, PK and PVP
What do you get out of playing games? To tell the truth, I’m a dreamy person. I play video games because it makes feels like I’m closer to different places beyond my imagination, it makes me feel that I’m strong, I’m tough and I’m always right which in real life I’m not! xD
Tell us of a significant “gaming or MMORPG blooper” (funniest moment) that you were directly involved in? Rohan PH Event, killing GM Krieger or something. I shouted “Where are you Krieger, show up!”, then suddenly an announcement pops up “BlackRose be ready, I’ll put you down! –GM Krieger” or something like that. Me and my guild mates are laughing really hard, telling me that I’m doom and I’ll be ban. Then the event started, they gave the coordinates, and I was the first one who spotted him. I thought he was easy since I was a templar and I have a healer with me, but I’m wrong!  I died instantly, and then the event moderator shouted “BlackRose is DOWN!” he shouted it many times, and another announcement pops up “I told you! –GM Krieger”. I have a print screen of it but I lost it. ?
What’s the most unforgettable thing that happened to you as a gamer? I cried because I finished one of my favorite game which I find it weird but funny when I realize it really happens.
Do you run or work for a gaming Forum or Fan Site? I’m just new to blogging and currently updating it everyday (www.gamercitadel.blogspot.com). My blog is about games, games, games. But surely, If I’ll be a given a chance to managed a forum or a fan site that would earn me money, why not?
Your message to your fellow gamers? Did you know that playing video games and MMO’s makes your brain sharper? But always remember that there’s always something more important than playing video games. LONG LIVE GAMERS!

SHORTS

1. Joystick or Gamepad? Gamepad
2. Cheating before finish or finish first before cheating? None of the choices. LOL!
3. F2P or Subscription? F2P
4. Sony, Microsoft (Xbox) or Nintendo? before Sony now Microsoft
5. What is your definition of a noob? They always ask for something.
6. Favorite gaming “term” or lingo? Ergg…
7. If video games did not exist, what would be the replacement? Then I would invent video games. xD
8. Complete the sentence. Girl Gamers are…I’m a girl and I don’t know what men think about girl gamers.
9. Complete the sentence. Game Masters should…be loved.
10. Mercedes Benz or BMW? Mercedes Benz
11. Beer or Liquor? Cocktail
12. Favorite Movie: Shrek
13. Favorite Book: Fairy Tales Books
14. Favorite Game (of all time): Tie between Suikoden II and Dragon Age : Origins.
15. Favorite TV Show: Attack of the Show
16. Favorite Music Artist: Vanessa Carlton

Thanks for your time, Jovy. More power to your gaming and it was great to interview you ~GM T

If you’d like to be featured, HERE’S HOW

Most of you, when not gaming, may be glued to your TV sets watching GMA 7′s Survivor Philippines, yes?

Do you know that a Ragnarok player composed the new theme song for this Survivor series? It’s none other than good friend and pRO veteran Master Diwa de Leon. Diwa’s a pro violinist known to most also a cosplayer, a film maker, composer and good Ragnarok player. Talent and creativity is this guy’s middle name! He and co-creator Edwin Guillermo even bagged the 2nd place of the LIVE 2008 Filmfest with their entry Hindi Ako Botter (where I get a special cameo appearance. Woot!).

Listen to the song and my interview with MD after the break…

Master Diwa on Composing the Survivor Philippines theme, New Chaos and Ragnarok

Listen to the song first and then read the interview below

GM T: How did you end up making the Survivor PH theme? Who got you involved?
Master Diwa: It was a bunch of referrals from contacts in the music industry and the last stop was me. I grabbed the opportunity and never let go.

GM T: What was your inspiration to make the music?
Master Diwa: Well of course, my main inspiration is the vast traditional music culture that we have in the Philippines. I chose my favorite drum beats and incorporated them in the totality of the music. GMA 7 also provided me sound samples and a copy of the original Survivor theme by Russ Landau.

GM T: Any challenges during the actual composition and recording?
Master Diwa: The actual music making process is a natural thing for me. The real challenge was actually pleasing the executives of GMA 7.

In this kind of production, everyone was a boss, and each has their own idea of how the music should sound like. So I really had to compromise a lot in the final output. And this didn’t happen only once, there were around 6-7 revisions before the final music materialized.

GM T: What advice can you give aspiring musicians?
Master Diwa: Don’t stop doing what you do if you know you are good. But if you think you’re bad, and your mother thinks so too, do us a favor and do something else. The last thing we composers need is non-deserving competition.

GM T: New Chaos is up! Any thoughts about this?
Master Diwa: The existence of new Chaos is a double-edged sword for me. It signifies a fresh start for all commercial servers. As I’ve witnessed it, old players are returning. I can see it in their YM status messages that they are playing again. However, a server merge for also means that the total player community has decreased. But hopefully, with good events and perks, perhaps the Philippine Ragnarok Online community will dramatically increase again.

GM T:  Final words to Survivor PH fans and RO players?
Survivor and Ragnarok, wala masyado pinagkaiba yan. Matira pa rin ang matibay! Rok on guys and gals!

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Thanks for your time, Diwa. Meanwhile let me share a photo: here’s MD and me during the Valkyrie Press Conference

Agian, thanks for the interview, MD. More power to you and your future endeavors.

If you guys know of any Ragnarok player with achievements such as Diwa, let me know. We’ll feature him or her here! Thanks!

Related Links

• Survivor Philippines song on Imeem
• Master Diwa’s Blog
• Master Diwa’s Gamer Profile on gmtristan.com

When we talk about “Legends”, these guys are of course, larger than life. People look up to them as role-models of the community. They idolize them due to their achievements, respect their views and often, follow them to the “ends of the earth.”.

These gamers may closely epitomize King Leonidas of the 300, one who will be the first one in a fight and the last one to leave.

What does it take to become a “Legend” inside the MMORPG or game that you play? Is it for everyone? In fact, is it easy at all?

That and more after the break

It’s all hard work. That, I can say. During the course of my job, I’ve had the pleasure to meet some of these icons of the Filipino gaming community. They truly are rare individuals. I’ve found out that the common factor among these guys is their “aura” and their charisma. There’s something truly inherrent in a “born leader”. Something inside them that will command true respect. Suffice it to say that “respect is earned, not bought”.

These individuals have shown, through their own actions, what it takes to become a leader and a pillar for the game and for the community.

Below are some traits common to these so-called Gaming Legends.

• Passion. Their passion and dedication to the game is beyond question. More often than not, they have to sacrifice a lot of personal time just to be in the game, to know more about the game and to be the best in what they do.
• Leadership. Legends are born leaders. They know how to command respect. Their words are “law”. Inside the game, a lot of people look up to them because of their words and deeds.
• Show it by example. If you think there’s a boss that can’t be killed, this guy and his party may do it (after careful planning). True (and good) Legends also show the proper way to play the game – no cheating, being kind and adhering to the rules of the game. Shame on you if you’re in his guild and you break the rules. Expect no mercy.
• Organization. You can’t be the idol of the masses if you’re crap in organizing. Some people are just naturals while some need help to do it. This is where delegation (as well as tools to help you organize) come into play.
• A buddy in real life. If you see a gaming legend iRL, he won’t look as intimidating as his spiky armor or his blazing sword. But he has a more powerful weapon – he’s actually a NICE GUY iRL. Beat that!

So there you have it. Just a few of the characteristics of gamer legends.

Are you ready to be one of the members of this rare breed? Just comment below.

Chris “Restless” Chavez is a big guy with an even bigger heart. He’s a pro gamer and also a respected leader of the RF community. A couple of weeks ago, he dropped by the office for a visit. I chanced upon this opportunity to have a short video chat with him. Good thing my new trusty Nokia N77 was at hand to capture the moment.

Restless talks about being an Archon, his plans for the RF Online NEST and CUS (City Under Siege) campaign. Finally, he gives tips and insights on how to a leader and how to manage your own community within the game.

His interview after the break.

Thanks for your time, Restless. Best of luck to your guild, your race and your server.

Strength and Honor!

In the meantime, last few days to get a FREE P100 Level Up Load

When we go on coffee breaks here at Level Up, we always end up talking about gaming. We compare notes on the best setups, how to avoid 3RLs in Xbox, etc. etc.

This made me think; wouldn’t it be cool to feature and show my readers some of the actual gaming cribs of actual Pinoy gamers? Sweet! ‘Eureka blogging-moment’.

And as debut for “Gamer Cribs” (I thought of that name myself. Wapak!), I talked to Girard Garcia. Girard works for our creative department as senior copywriter and editor. He’s the guy that cranks up all those words in our flyers, websites and press releases. Girard or “Gi” is also an avid console gamer and he’ll show us his setup below.

 Gi’s interview (and his crib) after the jump…

GM T: I heard that you actually are a console collector and avid gamer. Tell me how it all started.

Girard: I was deprived from video games when I was a kid! During the days of the Atari and the Family Computer (or NES), my parents never approved of getting me one. I envied all my classmates who had one, and everyday, I would spend playing video games at their homes. I was so desperate that I would even borrow game cartridges from my friends and pretend to play in front of our TV! Though I was able to get my video game fix on our IBM PC XT (green monochrome screen and all), the experience is entirely different when playing in front of the TV with a controller on hand!   

When I finally got a Family Computer (after shamelessly begging my Ninong for one) it was already the 16 bit era – the time of the Sega Genesis and the Super NES. I was fortunate enough to convince my Dad in buying me a Super NES just before it finally ended its reign a year later – making way for the 32 bit Sony Playstation! From then on, I vowed to get every gaming console that came out; no matter the cost… or that my parents will allow it. 

GM T: Tell me about your current setup now?

Girard: My personal Gaming Room features a 32” Sharp Aquos HDTV coupled with a small Yamaha 5.1 surround system. Instead of using the stock subwoofer that came with the system, I opted to use a better and more powerful 100w Polk Audio subwoofer. Underneath the TV are the Nintendo Wii and the Sony PS2. Beside it are the following: Xbox 360, PS3, Gamecube, Xbox, Nintendo 64, and hiding behind the subwoofer is the short-lived Sega Dreamcast. Tucked away are the Playstation one, Super NES, and NES.

 The other one is the Living Room setup which consists of the following: 37” Samsung HDTV, Onkyo audio receiver, Philips upscaling DVD player, Mission Front speakers and Wharfedale surround speakers, and a 285W Velodyne Subwoofer. Game consoles are usually brought down here during parties or gaming sessions.

GM T: Among the consoles, what’s your favorite? and why?

Girard: I still believe that games make the consoles! And most of the best games today are found on the Xbox 360. Until MGS4 and other exclusive big titles arrive on the PS3, the 360 remains my favorite. 

GM T: How would rate the 3 giants in the console industry? Xbox, Sony (PS3) and Nintendo (Wii)? What are the pros and cons of each hardware.

Girard: Xbox 360 gets the highest, next is the Nintendo Wii, followed by the PS3.  

Xbox 360

Pros:

• More and better games due to strong third party support and exclusive games
• Terrific online service (Xbox live)
• Developers say that it’s a lot easier to program games on the Xbox compared to the PS3’s complex architecture. 

Cons:

• 3RL (3 Red Lights) of death. This is when you experience Xbox hardware failure due to GPU overheating or other anomalies. If it hasn’t happened to you yet… it definitely will!
• DVD format. Let’s face it: it’s no match against Sony’s Blu-ray format.
• Lower specs compared to the PS3. Then again, most games that came out for both platforms look either identical or have very minimal differences.
• Needs a separate player to watch HD DVD movies. Well since Toshiba has discontinued support for HD DVDs, maybe it’s not a big deal anymore. 

Nintendo Wii

Pros:

• Innovative gameplay due to the Wii-mote and nunchuck control scheme.
• First party Nintendo games. If you love Mario, Zelda, and other related characters, go get a Nintendo!
• Backwards compatibility with Gamecube.

Cons:

• Lowest system specs of the next gen consoles. Just a bit higher than the Gamecube.
• Innovative gameplay may turn off hardcore players. Novelty of waving the Wii-mote may wear off easily.
• Most games are geared toward kids

PS3

Pros:

• Strong first and third party game support… though it hasn’t really arrived yet!
• Highest system specs around
• Doubles as a Blu-ray player out of the box
• Compatibility with most PS and PS2 games (80gb and higher models only)

Cons:

• Only a handful of games are available. Much lesser if you count only the good ones. Much, much lesser if you count the exclusive ones.
• Be prepared to pay for high priced original games. Good for you if you don’t buy pirated games.
• Programming games for the PS3 is complicated, says developers.
• PS2 and PS1 backward compatibility is now software emulated. Lucky for you if you own the 60gb versions which have the old PS2 emotion chip.
• PS3 exterior scratches easily! — a warning for the OCs… like me.

GM T: What advice would you give those who would be willing to have a great gaming rig system such as yours?

Girard: If you plan on investing on a PS3 or Xbox 360, you will need an HDTV just to appreciate the games visuals. Otherwise, the graphics look nothing out of the ordinary on a standard TV. A 5.1 surround system is the least of your worries – unless you want to experience the best of everything these new consoles have to offer. As for the Nintendo Wii, you are quite safe with owning a regular TV. Visuals look great on both standard and HDTV (still, the Wii has high-def support)

GM T: What are you playing right now? Any favorites?

Girard: Still have to finish Devil May Cry 4 and Lost Odyssey for the Xbox 360. Also playing FF7: Crisis Core for the Sony PSP. Favorite so far is Call of Duty 4. So many games, so little time.

GM T: What are you looking forward to playing? why?

Girard: Metal Gear Solid 4 (PS3), Tekken 6, Soul Calibur 4, and Streetfighter 4 (PS3, Xbox360). I’ve always loved the Metal Gear series, and have ever since been a big fan of fighting games – but never really became good at them.

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Thanks so much, Gi. I appreciate you taking time off from your busy schedule for this interview and for sharing with us your crib.

Ey! Want to show off YOUR gaming crib? Just shoot me an e-mail and I’ll arrange it to be featured here.

Happy gaming!

GM T

Ey peeps… been quite awhile since I posted a new Gamer Profile.

Today, I’m going to showcase a regular visitor and active commenter here at the gmtristan.com community, sylverblade.

At 22, aside from gaming, Steph (pronounced “stip”, he claims) likes writing, blogging and doing programming. He’s also an avid gamer and has tried FPS, MMO and other genres. He particularly hates cheaters… and so do I.

Anyways, let’s hear it from sylv3rblade himself…

The interview after the jump

Real Life Full Name:   Stephen Ian Advincula
Nickname:  steph (pronounced ‘stip’), syl
Age: 22
Location: Kawit Cavite
Website: www.atmaxplorer.com, www.pinoytechblog.com,
MMORPG Currently Playing: RF Online
Forum Handle: sylv3rblade
Main Character Name: Valyx
Server: ALTRAX
Player Association (Guild or Clan): None yet, just re-started playing

How long have you played your current MMORPG?  
About 5 months ago

What other MMOs have you played?
FF: IX, Ragnarok, O2Jam, RAN Online, Phantasy Star Online, Granado Espada, ROSE Online, Guild Wars, WoW (trial only)

What type of work do you do?
Currently freelance (as of writing I’m still NEET) but I’m looking for work in the development field.

How long is your typical gaming session when playing your current MMORPG?
If I’m busy, I usually take 1-2 hours to play as break, if I’m not then it’s 6-8 hours

What does a typical day consist of for you?  
Read news on my RSS Reader or netvibes, watch anime, play MMO (unless weekends, I hate weekends on MMOs), cook dinner

What was the race and profession of your very first character?  
On RF, it was a Corite Summoner.

What got you into gaming and what sort of games do you like the most?
I started I think with Super Mario brothers, then after I got my first dose of Warcraft 2, I moved from the console to the PC.  It’s usually RTS for me but I like games which are deep and involves a lot of micromanagement, when I’m bored it’s FPS time.
What other hobbies or activities do you take part in, other then playing your current MMORPG or video games?
Let’s see:
•    Blogging (I currently own 2 niche blogs and 2 personal ones), movies (at least )
•    Movies, I usually try to go to the movies once a week.  When busy it’s twice a month.
•    Writing Novels – just a past time.  I’m writing really for myself.  It beats writing a diary anytime!
•    Programming – I usually read the API (syntax docu?) of languages I use and I usually waste my time trying things out.
•    Cooking – I love to experiment, which is why my family banned me from the kitchen.  Spa-toge anyone? XD

hat do you like the most about the profession you have chosen for your main character?
A lot actually.  I love being a summoner simply because you can deal damage while your animus whittle down your enemies.  Yeah a Faust would’ve been better in terms of PK but hey, a summoner with his animus looks a whole lot cooler.

How did you choose your main character’s name?
Usually I pick names from characters I used some of the Table Top RPG sessions.  If that’s taken, I use the Dungeons and Dragons™ name generator.

What do you like best about RF Online
The community, although some players use “piloting” its not as bad as botting since there’s still an actually person sitting in front of the computer.  Second would be raids XD.  It’s not so enjoyable if you’re the one being killed but if you’re the raider, then it’s all worth it!

What do you get out of playing games?
It relieves stress and provides excitement to a usually boring life.

Tell us of a significant “gaming or MMORPG blooper” (funniest moment) that you were directly involved in?
Max Payne.  God I can’t forget the Matrix effect, it was so useful when trying to down enemies but it’s dangerous some times.  The WORST death I had in the game was in the area before the last stage (the one inside the building w/ stairs).  I jumped sideways, fired off the “bullet-time” effect, killed my enemies with the sawed off then.  As luck has it, I was on the stairs, and the jump got me through the railings and into a deadly freefall. >_<. That was so memorable!

What’s the most unforgettable thing that happened to you as a gamer?
Doom 3 fried my PC!

Do you run or work for a gaming Forum or Fan Site?
Nope.  I used to be an active moderator on GamerzPlanet but forum politics got to me and I left.

Your message to your fellow gamers?
Cheaters are losers.  If you can’t play it right, DON’T.

SHORTS

1.    Joystick or Gamepad? Joystick
2.    Cheating before finish or finish first before cheating? After
3.    F2P or Subscription? Subscription!
4.    Sony, Microsoft (Xbox) or Nintendo? Sony
5.    What is your definition of a noob? Someone who doesn’t learn
6.    Favorite gaming “term” or lingo?  DDNM >_<
7.    If video games did not exist, what would be the replacement?  Movies!
8.    Complete the sentence. Girl Gamers are… rare, often they’re guys with girls characters.
9.    Complete the sentence. Game Masters should… set examples.
10.    Mercedes Benz or BMW? Benz
11.    Beer or Liquor? Liquor
12.    Favorite Movie: V for Vendetta
13.    Favorite Book: Polgara
14.    Favorite Game (of all time): Civilization 4
15.    Favorite TV Show:  Imbestigador
16.    Favorite Music Artist: Mandy Moore >_<

Thanks for your time, syl. Thanks especially for being active here in my blog. More power… may your spells never miss and may the drops be kind.

GM T

Show me a Ragnarok player in a cowboy hat who’s good with the REAL violin and I’ll show you a true pRO legend – Master Diwa. Diwa, a freelance musician, gamer and guild leader is a true gamer, a good friend and one of the pillars of the local Ragnarok community.

It is my honor and privilege to be featuring him here in Gamer Profiles. In this special feature, Diws shares his thoughts on gaming, music and his new passion (among his many projects) – blogging. Every time I visit his blog, it seems that the alexa rankings keep getting higher and higher. Great work, my friend, keep it up.

Master Diwa has been with Ragnarok from the start. He’s always supportive of Level Up events and was even my guest speaker during the Valkyrie Press Launch.

Annyways, enjoy his interview after the jump.

RAP SHEET

Real Life Full Name: Diwa Felipe Sarabia de Leon
Nickname: Master Diwa/ Diwa/ Diws
Age: 27
Sex: Male
Location: Quezon City, Philippines
Website or Friendster/SNS (OPTIONAL):
My Blog, http://diwa.makiling.ph
MMORPG Currently Playing: Philippine Ragnarok Online
Forum Handle: Master Diwa
Main Character Name: Master Diwa
Server: Valkyrie Server
Player Association (Guild or Clan): Grand Lethal
How long have you played your current MMORPG?
5 years.
What other MMOs have you played?
Fly For Fun, Pangya, O2Jam, Lineage II, Granados Espada
What type of work do you do?
Freelance Musician/Songwriter
How long is your typical gaming session when playing your current MMORPG?
1 hour a day (used to be 10-12 hours a day back in 2005)
What does a typical day consist of for you?
I wake up (late), sit on my PC, check all the sites I manage, check my web earnings, make a blog entry or two, write music or continue a project, go to practice or gig at night with my band, Makiling, go home, go back to my pc, sleep in the morning. That’s about it.

I used to have a day job but I quit as soon as my band’s schedule was becoming tighter.

What was the race and profession of your very first character?
Knight. We only have humans in Ragnarok so I guess it’s human.
What is your highest character level in your current MMORPG?
99 Transcendent Job.
What got you into gaming and what sort of games do you like the most?
I was already fond of the Family Computer at a young age. I would be like the best in all the games in my family and I always beat all my cousins in Street Fighter. I owned a PS1, PS2, Gameboy Advanced and Gamecube but I sold them all already when I couldn’t play them that much anymore because of Ragnarok.

My favorite gaming genres are almost always RPGs (Elder Scrolls, FF series, Xenogears), point-and-click adventure games(Monkey Island series, Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened), real-time strategy (Starcraft, Warcraft III, DotA), simulation (Civilization) and the occassional puzzle game (Switchball).
What other hobbies or activities do you take part in, other then playing your current MMORPG or video games?
I’m an active musician and songwriter. I had projects in which I was hired to write music for TV ads, film scores and even a campaign jingle! I’m an active member of the Filipino Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers. I’m also very much into cosplaying with my cosplay group, The Frost Jokers.

What do you like the most about the profession you have chosen for your main character?
Very hard to take down, because of high defense and hit points. The ideal character for a guildmaster and frontliner.

How did you choose your main character’s name?
I’m a very egotistical person. I like to call myself lordly names just for kicks. I had a character named Lord Diwa, Emperor Diwa and of course, Master Diwa.
What do you like best about Ragnarok?
What I like about Ragnarok is that it is the pioneer in popularizing MMOs here in the Philippines, thus it has the most advanced community base. I have made a lot of real life friends, attended a lot of real life gatherings and even made some business contacts because of Ragnarok.
What do you get out of playing games?
Pure fun, and the satisfaction of PKing some trashtalkers in PVP. And of course, when I was still an active guildmaster in War of Emperium sieges, I get a lot of fulfillment everytime we occupy and defend a castle.
Tell us of a significant “gaming or MMORPG blooper” (funniest moment) that you were directly involved in?
I can never forget the numerous chixilog encounters which I was involved in setting up. I had a member in my guild who was playing a girl character, but was really a… you guessed it, a chixilog. He was really a guy IRL, and everytime we have eyeballs, I never fail to laugh at the reactions of first time attendees upon learning the truth about this chixilog.
What’s the most unforgettable thing that happened to you as a gamer?
Hahaha! I never told this in public but I guess its ok now. I cried for a girl I met and (fell in love with) in Ragnarok Online. There I said it. But that’s already ancient history.
Do you run or work for a gaming Forum or Fan Site?
I run my own blog, called The Master’s Den (http://diwa.makiling.ph) where I talk mostly about my passions in life such as music, cosplay, games and girls. Haha! I also founded pRO Valkyrie Realm, (http://provalkyrie.com) a portal and community site for my fellow Ragnarok Valkyrie players.
Your message to your fellow gamers?
Gaming is fun and it will get you to places if you do good especially today. But don’t forget that there are other things to do such as live life to the fullest. Don’t get too engrossed with playing games, unless of course, you work in the gaming industry.

SHORTS

1. Joystick or Gamepad? Gamepad
2. Cheating before finish or finish first before cheating? Finish first
3. F2P or Subscription? F2P!
4. Sony, Microsoft (Xbox) or Nintendo? NINTENDO!!!
5. What is your definition of a noob? Someone incompetent.
6. Favorite gaming “term” or lingo? Amp!
7. If video games did not exist, what would be the replacement? Board games
8. Complete the sentence. Girl Gamers are… Hot!
9. Complete the sentence. Game Masters should… act more!
10. Mercedes Benz or BMW? BMW
11. Beer or Liquor? Definitely beer.
12. Favorite Movie: Ocean’s 13
13. Favorite Book: Harry Potter 1-7
14. Favorite Game (of all time): Super Mario All-stars
15. Favorite TV Show: Smallville
16. Favorite Music Artist: Tie between The Corrs and U2

Thanks for your time, Master Diwa. I trust that you will still continue your support of Level Up and Ragnarok.

More power!

GM T

Here’s the second gamer to be featured for Gamer Profiles, the newest section and feature here at www.gmtristan.com

Today, the house welcomes “Moch” who’s an avid Ragnarok player. And, believe it or not, his favorite TV program is MTV Massive. Kewl! I did some segments there at MTV and was my “few minutes of fame” a couple of years back.

Monch, who works as a proofreader in his school, Claret, also tried ROSE Online before it closed.

Let’s all meet Monch after the jump!

Real Life Full Name: Ramon Angelo Balingit Puentebella
Nickname: Monch
Age: 17
Sex: Male
Location: Caloocan City
Website or Friendster/SNS (OPTIONAL):
http://profiles.friendster.com/soundsofspirit
MMORPG Currently Playing: Ragnarok Online
Forum Handle: Hmmm……actually, I don’t know that. /swt
Main Character Name: Bing Austria
Server: Urdr
Player Association (Guild or Clan): Unaffiliated
How long have you played your current MMORPG?  2 and 1/2 years.
What other MMOs have you played? ROSE, before it was removed.
What type of work do you do? I am a student currently studying at Claret School of Quezon City.
How long is your typical gaming session when playing your current MMORPG? It would last me about 1-2 hours.
What does a typical day consist of for you? I wake up at 5 in the morning, do my morning rituals and leave at six. I arrive to school at 7 and attend classes up to 4. A one hour ride back home, then I play RO at the internet cafe up to 7 pm. Upon arriving home, I eat dinner and spend some quality time with my family. I finally call it a day when 10 pm arrives.
What was the race and profession of your very first character? It was a level 63 Hunter in Iris (pre-merge). I myself believed it was not that powerful, and the server didn’t have an exp modifier (which increased chances of a fast level-up) so I abandoned it.
What is your highest character level in your current MMORPG? 75. It belongs to my current character, a Gunslinger.
What got you into gaming and what sort of games do you like the most? Bandwagon principle. Also, I needed an outlet for all my problems, my frustrations. Typical escape from the problems of student life.
What other hobbies or activities do you take part in, other then playing your current MMORPG or video games? I work as a page proofreader for the school’s website. I also write poems whenever I feel like it, or when I have the inspiration. I also play the guitar and join my co-staff in their Frisbee game.
What do you like the most about the profession you have chosen for your main character? The suit and the moves. Pair it off with a nice cowboy headgear and you get a suave character.
How did you choose your main character’s name? I named him after Bing Austria, the vocalist of the band Juan Pablo Dream.
What do you like best about Current MMORPG? It still has the same charm that attracts players to get hooked, even though there are many other games out there which promise the same things that RO has.
What do you get out of playing games? I get from playing games a temporary feeling of victory, an optimistic mindset and at the same time, relaxation. ^^
Tell us of a significant “gaming or MMORPG blooper” (funniest moment) that you were directly involved in? Sorry to say, I don’t involve myself much in such things. To be honest, I’m a rather passive player. I don’t talk much to people, might be the fact that my server doesn’t have real players anymore.
What’s the most unforgettable thing that happened to you as a gamer? I gained friends. I used to be a reclusive person before, but when I played RO, my friends and I now had a common interest.
Do you run or work for a gaming Forum or Fan Site? No. I dream of becoming a moderator in Ragnaboards. ^^
Your message to your fellow gamers? Believe in yourself; don’t stop reaching for your dreams.

SHORTS
Answer with a few words as possible (if possible, only 1 word).
1.    Joystick or Gamepad? Gamepad
2.    Cheating before finish or finish first before cheating? Finish before cheating
3.    F2P or Subscription? F2P
4.    Sony, Microsoft (Xbox) or Nintendo? Sony
5.    What is your definition of a noob? Cowards who trash-talk in-game but run away when you engage them in PvP.
6.    Favorite gaming “term” or lingo? PK (player kill)
7.    If video games did not exist, what would be the replacement? Hmmm….can’t think of an answer to that.
8.    Complete the sentence. Girl Gamers are… cool.
9.    Complete the sentence. Game Masters should…be more serious and strict in implementing anti-bot measures.
10.    Mercedes Benz or BMW? BMW
11.    Beer or Liquor? Abstain.
12.    Favorite Movie: Borat
13.    Favorite Book: Bakit Baliktad Magbasa ng Libro ang Mga Pilipino?
14.    Favorite Game (of all time): Ragnarok Online (no biases)
15.    Favorite TV Show: MTV Massive
16.    Favorite Music Artist: Juan Pablo Dream

Thanks for your time, Monch! Go and tell all your friends to read your profile here. Post it in your friendster as a bulletin. Spread the link… hehehe. Thanks.

For those who wish to be featured, you can still apply.

Until the next Gamer Profile…

Ciao,

GM T