Lighthouse_NA
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Posts
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Joined
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This change and the previous one is bad because it still allows for some teammates to grief your team should they choose to log off and not quit. I have had it to happen twice since the first change on a few tfs I have done. Once on Katie hannon and once Sara Moore TFs. We need a way to be able to kick people from the team that are not currently logged in. Secondly neither of these changes have done anything to address the reason why this softloading of tf/sfs happens in the first place. If the recipes that people can actually use were more readily accessable we would not be going thru this now in the first place. Either address the issue with the drop pools or you are doing all this for nothing and all it is doing is punishing the rest of the playerbase instead of farmers.
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Understandable and thanks for the feedback. However, I would have to advise you to better get to know the people you are grouping with. Simply put, if someone has a reputation for such, don't engage in a task / strike force or trial with them. You would be well advised to only take your most trusted allies with you to tackle such challenging and dangerous missions!
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On several TF's its already hard enough to get a big enough team together to run it(esp for the FP and Shard TF's) and many times you dont have the luxury of picking and choosing who is to use.
This also stops people who might drop out suddenly due to internet problems and such.
IMO all this change does it stop a few people from softloading, while punishes the rest of the player base becasue no matter how much you "prepare" there are going to be times where someone is going to drop out suddenly.
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It does put the control back in the players hands in all cases but a hard, irreconcilable loss of internet connectivity. Some examples:
Wife/Husband agro or a bad storm moving into your area that will likely cause you to have a power outage: Simply let the team know you need to go and quit the team and the spawns will scale down to the new team size.
Cat steps on your power strip, turning off your system: Well, the team will have to deal with you going Link Dead, but hopefully they can manage till you log back in.
Someone on your team is acting like a complete dork, agroing ahead, or otherwise placing the teams integrity in jeopardy: Have the team leader talk with them and if they can't settle down, remove them from the team and allow the spawn size to scale down to the new team size.
If you want to "solo" a Task Force (for example Positron)? Invite two others (since it is a min. 3 person to start) to start the Task Force and then have one quit. You need to have 2 people minimum in a Task Force / Strike Force or Trial for the mission chain to stay solvent. But hey, you can solo spawns for 2 with your settings on heroic, can't you? Or - duo it with a friend.
I hope those examples help. -
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This change and the previous one is bad because it still allows for some teammates to grief your team should they choose to log off and not quit. I have had it to happen twice since the first change on a few tfs I have done. Once on Katie hannon and once Sara Moore TFs. We need a way to be able to kick people from the team that are not currently logged in. Secondly neither of these changes have done anything to address the reason why this softloading of tf/sfs happens in the first place. If the recipes that people can actually use were more readily accessable we would not be going thru this now in the first place. Either address the issue with the drop pools or you are doing all this for nothing and all it is doing is punishing the rest of the playerbase instead of farmers.
[/ QUOTE ]
Understandable and thanks for the feedback. However, I would have to advise you to better get to know the people you are grouping with. Simply put, if someone has a reputation for such, don't engage in a task / strike force or trial with them. You would be well advised to only take your most trusted allies with you to tackle such challenging and dangerous missions! -
On February 12th, we introduced a change to Task / Strike Force and Trial Missions whereby the monster spawns would not scale down below the required number of players needed to start the mission. To further refine this change we are currently testing a revision to this functionality on the Training Room Test Server. From the Patch Notes
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Task Force/Strike Force and Trial Missions
The size of spawns in Task Force/Strike Force missions will always be based on the number of players in a Strike Force/Task Force, regardless of whether they are logged on or not.
Spawns for Task Forces/Strike Forces no longer have a minimum size that they will not scale below.
8 Person Task Force Example:
8 players begin an 8 player Task Force and then 7 people LOG OFF. The spawns in the Task Force will still scale to the 8 players attached to the Task Force (regardless of whether they are logged on or not).
If instead of logging off, 6 of the players QUIT the 8 person Task Force, then the Spawns will scale down to the remaining 2 players on the Task Force.
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Please use this thread to discuss the above proposed change currently under testing. For actual discussion based on your play experience, please visit the Training Room Test Server Forums. -
On Tuesday, February 26th starting at 6 AM Pacific (9 AM Eastern) all North American City of Heroes / Villains servers will come down for a game update.
We anticipate the down time to last up to 2 hours.
This will update the game to version 16.20080122.9T3 that is currently in testing on the Training Room Test Server. For a list of changes, visit the current Training Room Patch Notes, or see the live Patch Notes once the update is completed. -
Edition 37 of The City Scoop a publication for Supers by Supers!
Use this thread to discuss this issue!
While the City Scoop is made by the creative player staff, if you have any concerns regarding the content of the Scoop please feel free to direct your comments via PM to Lighthouse or Ex Libris.
If you would like to do a feature article, have an event covered, or join "The City Scoop" team please PM Dirtwolf, Snow_Globe, or Pants_Stealer
If you or someone you know should be considered for Behind the Mask Teldon or Encounters please contact MrsAlphaOne
If you need some Advice contact Lady_Athyna or would like to Ask The X contact LiquidX -
Edition 37 of The City Scoop a publication for Supers by Supers!
While the City Scoop is made by the creative player staff, if you have any concerns regarding the content of the Scoop please feel free to direct your comments via PM to Lighthouse or Ex Libris.
If you would like to do a feature article, have an event covered, or join "The City Scoop" team please PM Dirtwolf, Snow_Globe, or Pants_Stealer
If you or someone you know should be considered for Behind the Mask Teldon or Encounters please contact MrsAlphaOne
If you need some Advice contact Lady_Athyna or would like to Ask The X contact LiquidX
Click here to discuss this issue. -
Top Ten Lesser Known Acronyms
Sure, we all know LOL, OMG, BRB, WTF, AFK, ROTFLMAO. But every now and then
even the most grizzled internet veterans see a jumble of letters and have to
go, "WTF does ____ mean?" Well, here is a handy guide for some of the less
common acronyms you might see floating around. And srsly, wtf does tl,dr mean?
No ones told me...
Number 10: ONOOC! = Oh no! Out of Cheetos!
Number 9: KOFMFAM = Keyboard on fire, my fingers are melting!
Number 8: HBTYHBTYHBD?HBTY = Happy Birthday to you. Happy
Birthday to you. Happy Birthday dear (friends name). Happy Birthday to you.
Number 7: PTBBP = Pass the boysenberry please. (Best used at
IHOP.)
Number 6: NITF! = Not in the face!
Number 5: NPATD? = Nice pants. Are those Dockers?
Number 4: LOLROTFOITIROA4SD = Laughing out loud rolling on the
floor. Ouch, I think I rolled over a four-sided die.
Number 3: TPAMMT = These pretzels are making me thristy!
Number 2: WTTTD = Welcome to the Terror Dome!
And the Number one lesser known acronym is: YBWDTHTDWTPOGIU =
Yeah, but what does that have to do with the price of gold in Uzbekistan.
The City Scoop Staff
-
Horoscopes
Blaster
(Aquarius)
Transiting Venus Sextile Natal Mars
Boosted by the relentless drive and energy of Mars, you are likely to be in a
positive and fun-loving mood. This is a great time for parties and any type of
social gathering, a time for attracting new friends and new loves. Business and
financial negotiations could prove extremely lucrative, particularly if setting
up new and original deals.
Brute
(Virgo)
Transiting Sun Opposite Natal Sun
Conflicts may arise if you feel the need to blame others rather than yourself
for certain situations, which have failed or not worked to your advantage. If
you are honest and value your friendships, then concede defeat and if
necessary, make apologies.
Controller
(Pisces)
Transiting Sun Trine Natal Jupiter
A pleasant week awaits you. Just sit back and enjoy all of lifes pleasures.
You will now be willing to take a few calculated risks and the results should
prove lucrative. As travel may be linked with work, you could find yourself
mixing business with pleasure.
Corrupter
(Libra)
Transiting Mars Conjunct Natal Saturn You are either going to be capable of
extremely hard work, with a determination and energy to drive you onwards and
upwards, or you will simply feel that no matter how hard you are trying you are
getting nowhere fast. Patience will not be your strongest virtue in the coming
week. Watch your temper and possible clashes with authority figures.
Defender
(Aries)
Transiting Venus Conjunct Natal Neptune
With your head in the clouds for a few days, postpone making major decisions
whilst in this vague and dreamy state. Love will be of the most pure, selfless
kind, with your own ego being temporarily forfeited to the devotion of others.
But beware putting loved ones on a pedestal, in times to come they may not live
up to your expectations. Creativity could be exceptionally inspired.
Dominator
(Scorpio)
Transiting Venus Trine Natal Mars
Full of energy and raring to go, nothing will be able to stop you or get in
your way during this time. There are mountains to be climbed and battles to be
conquered. Passionate emotions may overwhelm you.
Mastermind
(Sagittarius)
Transiting Uranus Square Natal Mercury Your mind will be like quicksilver
during this period, restless and constantly flitting back and forth between
dozens of different ideas and projects. It is no wonder that this could cause
mental confusion and exhaustion. Be careful, too, that you do not jump to
conclusions, accusing others without enough evidence.
Peacebringer
(Taurus)
Transiting Venus Square Natal Sun
Lacking energy, you will be more inclined to sit around and do as little as you
can during this time. It would be just as well to postpone major tasks or
decisions until your energy increases and you are in a more positive frame of
mind. Personal relationships could also feel the strain, especially if you have
been choosing to hide or ignore pressing problems.
Scrapper
(Gemini)
Transiting Mars Trine Natal Uranus
This could be a time of tremendous achievements, a time when you are not
prepared to settle for second best. Others will now look to you for leadership.
Your aggression and sheer determination will enable you to do things that you
have only dreamed of in the past.
Stalker
(Capricorn)
Start of a new 11-12 year period of believing in life
Transiting Jupiter Conjunct Natal Sun
You will be feeling out-going, optimistic and your health may be improving.
Armed with more energy and enthusiasm, you will be ready to tackle any obstacle
head on. Despite all this, be wary of over-exerting yourself. Try to exercise
some restraint.
Tanker
(Cancer)
Transiting Mercury Conjunct Natal Neptune
Thrown off balance by feelings of confusion and insecurity, it may seem that
whatever you do and say at the moment will leave you totally baffled and
bewildered. Previously held ideas and actions may no longer seem relevant or
significant. Misunderstandings are likely to occur over the next day or so.
Warshade
(Leo)
Transiting Mercury Opposite Natal Mars
No one will know when they hurt your feelings when you hide them so well.
Feeling so irritable and bad tempered, you are likely to verbally strike back
against anyone and everyone near you, often being contrary just for the sake of
it. Take particular care when traveling or handling sharp instruments.
-
Food
& Recipes
Calling All Hungry Gamers!
This issue is for you!
Ever have a weekend to yourself but you don't feel like cooking?
Wife, kids, husband, boyfriend, girlfriend or just you wanting to sit and play
all weekend?
At first you think about ordering pizza or running out to some fast food
place...
STOP!
Don't do it!
I know this would have come in handy for double XP weekend, but I already had
my articles done for that week. So, it's a bit too late, but here it is none
the less! I have a couple recipes that you can make ahead of time and just heat
up that will taste BETTER then that fast food you want to eat!
Chicken Broccoli Alfredo
Sauce:
[*]
1/2 cup butter[*]
1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese
[*]
2 teaspoons garlic/onion powder
[*]
2 cups milk
[*]
8 ounces grated Parmesan cheese/mozzarella shredded Cheese
[*]
1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
[*]
1 dash parsley[/list]
Directions
Melt butter in a medium, non-stick saucepan over medium heat. Add cream cheese
and garlic/onion powder, stirring with wire whisk until smooth. Add milk, a
little at a time, whisking to smooth out lumps. Stir in parmesan/mozzarella and
pepper, then sprinkle Parsley, but not too much. Remove from heat when sauce
reaches desired consistency. Sauce will thicken rapidly, so thin with milk if
cooked too long. Chicken and Broccoli is pretty simple. Steam/boil broccoli
until cooked and bake or fry up chicken until cooked, then chop and toss both
with pasta. Add the sauce. I would say to cook the broccoli and chicken before
hand then make the sauce because the sauce does not take long to cook. Enjoy!
Meatloaf
[*]
2 lbs ground turkey[*]
1 egg[*]
1/4 cup bread crumbs[*]
1 - 10oz package shredded cheese[*]
1/2 package broccoli & cauliflower mix - frozen[/list]
Directions
Mix turkey, egg and breadcrumbs into a bowl. Divide meat in half, then press
one half into a big meatloaf pan or cake pan. Next, layer the cheese and
broccoli mix on top, then press the rest of the meat over the top of that
evenly. Save some of the cheese to sprinkle on top. Baked for 90mins at 350F.
This meatloaf goes well with baked potatoes or mashed cheesy potatoes. For the
mashed taters cook and mash potatoes as you normally would but add 1 cup of
cheese for every 6 medium potatoes. Enjoy!
My last recipe comes from Azure Noir of the SOLUS Foundation supergroup on
Liberty and Pinnacle servers.
Thanks, Azure Noir. Here is your recipe!
Lasagna
[*]
8 oz lasagna noodles[*]
1 tablespoon vegetable or olive oil
[*]
1 lb bulk pork sausage (may be regular or Italian seasoning)
[*]
2 tsp dried basil, crushed
[*]
½ cup chopped onion
[*]
1 clove minced garlic
[*]
1 16 oz can diced tomatoes
[*]
1 8 oz can tomato sauce
[*]
1 6 oz can tomato paste
[*]
2 eggs, slightly beaten
[*]
2 tablespoons dried parsley
[*]
¾ cup shredded Parmesan cheese, divided
[*]
2 ½ cups cottage cheese
[*]
1 tsp salt
[*]
16 oz mozzarella cheese, sliced[/list]
Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Combine cottage cheese, eggs, parsley, salt and ½
cup parmesan cheese in bowl. Stir until well combined and set aside.
Combine sausage, onion and garlic in large skillet. Cook on medium heat until
sausage is browned. Drain. Reduce heat to low and add basil, tomatoes, tomato
paste and tomato sauce. Stir, cover and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring
occasionally. When finished, remove from heat and set aside.
Prepare lasagna noodles according to package directions, adding 1 tablespoon
oil to water before putting in noodles to prevent sticking. When noodles are
cooked, drain and rinse thoroughly in cold water.
In 13x9x2 pan, lay out one layer of lasagna noodles crossways, edges touching
but not overlapping, until bottom of pan is covered. Spoon in ½ of cottage
cheese mixture, spreading evenly over noodles. (You may find it easier to just
drop a large spoonful on each noodle and spread it across.) Layer ½ of
mozzarella slices over cottage cheese. Cover cheese with ½ of the sausage
mixture, spreading evenly. Repeat layers. Sprinkle top with reserved ¼ cup of
parmesan cheese.
Bake at 375 for 30-35 minutes, or refrigerate for up to 2 days, covered, and
bake at 375 degrees for 45 minutes or until warmed completely. Allow to sit for
10 minutes to cool before serving. Makes 10 servings.
*Notes: I don't recommend no-cook lasagna noodles. Preparation time can be
reduced if you set the water for the noodles to boil before you begin cooking
the sausage mixture. Other shortcuts include pre-cut onions and pre-minced
garlic in a jar. Prep time is about 30 minutes. If you cover and store in the
refrigerator, cover with plastic wrap instead of aluminum foil.
This is a great do-ahead dish which is even better the second day and warms up
easily in the microwave very convenient for nights when you've got supergroup
events or a stretch of power gaming planned.
Sounds yummy. Thanks again!
See you all again next week!
~MistressNoire
-
Base Showcase
Mouseion at Alexandria
Who is your base designer and who are your supergroup leaders?
Ms. Hypatia fills both roles.
Which server is your base on, and is it a Hero or Villain SG/VG?
Virtue and Heroes.
When was your supergroup established?
09/12/07
How many players are in your supergroup?
3 players, many alts, and we are recruiting.
What is the approximate value of your base?
Approximately 6.5 million influence.
How much time do you spend working on your base?
Establishing a new layout/design has been an average of 10-20 total hours each,
so far.
How much time have you invested so far?
Through several designs/redesigns/upgrades I've spent probably well over 200
hours, and the current design has taken around 40 so far.
What is your favorite base item?
Mystic Advisor.
Least favorite?
Any item that has a bounding box bigger than the boundaries of that item.
What is your favorite thing about base editing?
Seeing the completed creation and playing in it.
Least favorite?
Raid/door pathing in non-raid bases.
What is the highest thing on your wish-list for new base items?
8 foot stairs.
If you could give just one piece of advice to a new base editor, what would
it be?
Be patient and don't hesitate to ask seemingly silly questions.
Anything else you'd like to add about your SG, your base or the base system
in general?
The Mouseion started as a solo SG, but has recently (thanks to the prestige
grant) become functional enough that I feel comfortable recruiting new members.
We currently have three active members that are on very sporadically, but I am
hoping that changes soon.
This last incarnation of the base is fairly set in stone. I have approximately
40 hours worth of work in on it. Upgrades will exist solely of additional
equipment (TPs, storage, etc). If there is ever enough to expand again, I will
be keeping the current base as the core. I've too much time and effort into it,
and really enjoy it, to ever scrap it again.
I do not feel I can comment on the base system as I have too many requests and
not enough suggestions. *smile*
-
The City Scoop
Welcome to the Big League
Kilotonnage by J Veit
PvP Leagues are nothing new to the game. Infinity is well known for their fun
and challenging IPVPL (developed by Kitten of Chaos and Psoma). However, one as
far-reaching and as large in scope as the Test PvP League has definitely raised
the bar on the event. JimmayDean, a PvPEC member who also belongs to the SG
Ladder team Old School, pioneered the event. "Originally, I wanted to do a PvP
League on Freedom. I posted in the arena forums to see if there would be any
interest and got immediate feedback that we should do it on Test. I thought it
would be a great way to get PvPers from individual servers involved on Test and
interact with the Test SGs there." And so it started! Rules were laid out
(based on the IPVPL's with a bit of tweaking) and sign-ups began!
The PvPEC promoted the League across the server boards and in the game.
Lighthouse gave an amazing assist by giving the TPVPL some face-time on the
game loader. The League sign-up sheet quickly swelled to an amazing 218 people,
making this PvP event the largest Test has ever hosted. Then came the draft.
For the captains, many choices were easy because they knew the players from
Test PvP already, but with so many new people of varying skills and AT types,
the task was daunting. It took captains two long hours on Ventrilo with
JimmayDean to sort through reams of players and their toons but at last, twelve
teams and two divisions were had.
The League was designed with the idea of bringing new PvPers from Live to mix
and mingle with Test PvPers, known for being the best in the game. Alarys of
Justice for All says, "I really think that the new people got the benefit of a
lot of build work, how to play their specific role in an organized team, and
exposure to overall team strategy that they would most likely not have gotten
otherwise. I think that it's the perfect introduction to organized PvP in this
game."
"I enjoy playing with people who are having their first arena PvP experiences.
It's so different from what they expect or may have even seen in the zones,"
relates Thorizdin_LoTD of Lords of the Dead while Hobo Fruitsalad thinks,
"Well, for people who maybe didn't join, or have preconceived notions about
what happens in the arena on Test, I think seeing the multitude of thought that
goes into a match before it even starts is very interesting. From determining
what player on the opposite team has in regards to hit points, what characters
they are going to bring, how are we going to match up, what do we need to
bring, who is getting caged, siphoned, farmed, etc. I think these are aspects
that are often overlooked by people unfamiliar with Test PvP. It is more than
just jumping around and throwing fire."
And for the pros on Test? Our Ladder PvPers got to impart their knowledge,
mingle with people they normally played against, meet new players, freshen up
their rosters for the Ladder, and be challenged to play as effectively as
possible with ATs and power sets often shunned in high-end Arena play. Cinder
Viper of Old School and captain of Team Serious Business says, "My team had a
lot of new people. I was very impressed with how we performed. We did not have
one of the 'uber' team rosters. We had depth and people who had 'FoTM' builds
but not a huge amount of experience in the beginning. I remember at our first
practice I was actually pretty worried because I felt we'd have tons of work to
get both our support and damage ready to be competitive. Everyone on my team
worked hard though and I couldn't ask for a better finish than what we had,
second in our division."
Newcomer Mandog2 explains why he joined the League; "I had tried PvP in the
zones, but never in the arena, so I really didn't have much of an opinion. I
went into this totally blank ready to learn. I LOVED IT." With an oftentimes
maligned build of an AR/dev blaster, Mandog2 went on to learn and develop his
skills anyway. He continues, "I will admit that going into the event I had a
bad opinion about people that PvP. I have since changed my mind about the
PvPers though. All of the people on my team were nice, and when a team would
win there was not a lot of the grind it in your face antics that you hear about
so much on the forums. Since I was in this mainly to learn and grow, I even
offered Spain and the other members of my team that I wouldn't come to the
League night (since I suck and might cause the team to lose). The response was
an immediate NO! Even though I was as green to PvP as the day is long, they
still wanted me there on League night to participate. Some are now helping me
with builds and advice after the League is done."
Labattadm who is also new to Test PvP said, "I had no idea how supportive
members of the PvP community would be. I learned quite a bit about team arena
play. It's very fast paced." Labattadm used a kin/rad defender during the
League. "Being in the League really did change my view on PvP. I used to shrug
when I heard stories of PvPers PLing toons to 50 so they could play. It seemed
in many cases that they had a disdain for the PvE aspect of the game. Now I
understand why. There are very few moments in my PvE game where it's even close
to being as intense and as exciting as any of my 8v8 matches during the TPVPL
season."
Rejoicer brought his tank, Phoenix Elf, to the table for Team Haterade. Their
captain, Labrynth, says, "This was Rejoicer's first time ever setting foot into
the arena on Test with very little PvP experience on Live either, and he has
been an awesome member of our team!" 8v8 Arena teams normally don't waste a
spot for a tank, but with the Presence pool, Labrynth was able to utilize
Phoenix Elf creatively "I think one of the most memorable moments for me was
chasing a couple of blasters all over the place and so overawing them with my
Presence (fear/taunt) that they got frustrated enough to try a double nuke on
me (which didn't work)," laughs Rejoicer.
The League progressed relatively smoothly, despite wonky power changes and the
sometimes unreliable availability of the Test server . "The biggest problem
though, was the loss of people," muses JimmayDean, "Some teams lost a lot of
players, some not many at all. It was great that fillers wanted to participate
but it's hard to do an apple for apple swap and not have other teams feel a bit
cheated some times." But the first night of the TPVPL spawned two Pocket Ds and
as the weeks flew by, the competition and excitement for matches was palpable.
In the end Team Haterade and Team Strange were the tops of their divisions and
would face-off to determine a final winner.
"The biggest success of the League was seeing the results spill over to Test in
general. We saw new SG members and a whole new SG has joined the Ladder,"
relates JimmayDean, "We plan on doing a Season Two in the summer and the fact
that people want us to do it again is the biggest success of all!" Psyrene of
the new Ladder team Paragon Elite thinks, "The League did great. It got a lot
of new people into Test PvP groups and kept some people from quitting the
game."
The PvPEC would like to thank the entire PvP community for coming out and
making this event a great success. Please stay tuned for our March events such
as the Super Mixed Pentad tournament and our Intro to Base Raids series.
Vol. I, Issue XXXVII
February 22nd, 2008
This Issue:
Electronigirl 2.0 by DrGraham_SFWR
Upcoming Events:
February 23rd
February 24th
March 1st
March 2nd
Content Watch
Villainside 11-20
Because you missed your chance with your lover.
Because you were stuck at work during Double XP.
Because you got pushed out of the devs wedding event.
~Dr Egon Chronoport.
Available everywhere at your favorite secret store.
Its that time again, CoX fans. This is Plater doing another article on the
available game content. This time its about villain-side, levels 11 to 20.
Weve been off to a slow start this year and I hope more posters will post
their opinions in the next thread of the Content Watch.
As usual, you can read the present discussion
here and feel free to post any comments.
For this level range, Villains have 3 zones to choose from (Sharkhead Isle
excluded): Port Oakes, Cap au Diable and Bloody Bay. There isnt much to say
about Bloody Bay, except that its the level 15-25 PvP zone and the contact
offers repeatable missions that will give out a better XP completion bonus once
every 30 minutes. The patrol mission is worth doing once for the Stealth temp
power reward if your AT does not have any stealth powers.
Now unto the main dish. As level 10-20 villains you have 10 contacts that will
offer you missions. Three of them will give out badge missions: The Radio
(Plague Carrier), Dr. Shelly Percey (Mask Maker) and Willy Wheeler (Paragon of
Vice, needed for accolade). One of the problems is that you will most likely
out-level some of the 10-14 contacts if you try to do them all on a single run,
especially with the new changes to the XP curve.
Port Oakes offers 2 contacts for the 11-20 level range: The Radio and Veluta
Lunata. Veluta is often missed because players do not know about this
unlockable contact and the badge requirement (the Pirate badge for capturing 10
ghosts in Fort Hades) is passed over in favor of running the three level 10-14
Cap au Diable contacts or farming the Outbreak mission. I feel that the
northern section of Port Oakes is underused since there are no contacts there
and the only explored point is the sub that serves as a door to the Kings Row
mayhem and other missions. Some extra content, related to the Family/Mooks war
for example, could be added to make this zone more lively.
ImpulseKing wrote: "Getting around in Cap can be VERY hazardous to the unwary
until about level 14 and up. This is because the whoever planned the street
layout in Haven was 3 bottles past drunk and screaming at their anger
management therapist while on the job." I think this description fits the
layout of the Cap Au Diable zone well. It can be a real pain to get to your
door mission if you dont have a vertical movement travel (even worse if you
dont have a travel power). This portion is only the entrance section, though.
The upper section and back section (next to the university) dont suffer from
such a bad layout.
Cap au Diable also has some unique villains groups that you will not find in
other zones: The anti-tech hippies known as Luddites and the high-tech thieves
known as Gold Brickers. You can get some of the back story of the Gold Brickers
by doing Dr. Shelly Percey's story arc, but the Luddites are under used and
really do nothing in the zone except protesting against Dr. Aeon. I would like
to see one of these two groups make a comeback in high level content. Dmitri
Krylov (level 10-14) also has some unique villains group in his missions: The
Spetsnaz and the Vahzilok. While the Vazhilok are present around Cap au Diable,
Krylov is the only contact to feature them in a story arc. The Spetsnaz are
more or less interesting, although too similar to the Council in my opinion.
Villains get their first Strike Force contact in Cap au Diable, Virgil
Tarikoss, who will give you a chance to see what is really behind the Power
Transfer System. This Strike Force was also one of the main sources of Pool C
recipes for the villain market. However, since the fix in the last patch to
prevent soft loading, prices have risen to the roof. But thats another issue.
For a better understanding of the Cap au Diable backstory, I would recommend to
everyone to run the arcs of Marshall Brass and Dr. Shelly Percey. Take the time
to read all the clues and dialogue and you will learn more about Cap au Diable.
The last contact, Operative Wellman (introduced by Marshall Brass), gives out a
mission to villains to destroy the supplies that are used to rebuild Boomtown,
which explains why this zone isn't be revamped yet.
Lets not forget the Black Market and the only villain University in Cap au
Diable, which make this zone a cornerstone of the red side.
That concludes this article for the level 11-20 content. As usual, I would like
to thank everyone that took some of their time to post their opinion in the
Content Watch thread, especially those who I would like to call the Content
Watch regulars (Memphis_Bill, Mr_Grey, Beldoman and Neuronia). Thank you for
posting and I hope to get more replies next time for the level 20-30
villainside Content Watch.
-
[ QUOTE ]
Sounds to me like they are trying to decide on the best way to respond to Cryptic's announcement. Since Cryptic claims to be putting in many things people here have been begging for since launch they may decide that a major overhaul on the engine to allow those same things in CoH/CoV rather than just adding the basic content issues to an older product might be a prudent move to make for long term customer rentention. With an actual competitor looming on the horizon they have some big decisions to make.
[/ QUOTE ]
Just to be clear, the original statement was only with Geoff's previous points about CoH in mind; not anything else. Brian saw that and wanted to comment on it. -
On Tuesday, February 19th starting at 6 AM Pacific (9 AM Eastern) all US City of Heroes / City of Villains servers will come down for maintenance.
We anticipate the downtime to last 2 hours.
This maintenance period is to apply a new patch that is currently on the Training Room Test Server. For details, visit the Training Room Forums or, visit the Patch Notes page once the update is complete. -
[ QUOTE ]
Anyone find the 'who stole my chair?' post from Lighthouse?
[/ QUOTE ]
*goes to post and falls on the floor*
-
The following comes to you from the desk of Brian Clayton, NCNC Studio Manager and Executive Producer of City of Heroes / City of Villains:
I wanted to take a moment to follow up regarding Geoff's (Geoff Heath, CEO, NCsoft Europe) recent statements regarding City of Heroes future plans. To reiterate Geoff's comments and to restate our position from my original announcement of acquiring the City of Heroes Franchise, the future is very bright as we continue grow and reinvest heavily in this great product and community. There are a lot of exciting plans in motion that we expect will knock your socks off and take the City of Heroes/Villains franchise to the next level. However, our highest priority is to ensure that the quality of all new content being brought to the game meets and exceeds your expectations. With that goal in mind we have built a solid plan that positions us well for delivering just that! We're still not quite ready to reveal the specifics of our longer term initiatives, but know that we will share this info as soon as we can.
We continue to aggressively recruit and expand our team to meet these goals. I'm very happy to report that we've been successful in bringing on board some fantastic talent. I believe we have one of the most experienced, creative, and impassioned development teams in the industry working diligently to take your game experience to places you've been wanting to go, but thought not possible.
Thanks again to you, the community, for making City of Heroes & City of Villains the great online experience that it is!
Best,
-Brian
To discuss this announcement, please join us here. -
Please use this thread to discuss the below announcement:
The following comes to you from the desk of Brian Clayton, NCNC Studio Manager and Executive Producer of City of Heroes / City of Villains:
I wanted to take a moment to follow up regarding Geoff's (Geoff Heath, CEO, NCsoft Europe) recent statements regarding City of Heroes future plans. To reiterate Geoff's comments and to restate our position from my original announcement of acquiring the City of Heroes Franchise, the future is very bright as we continue grow and reinvest heavily in this great product and community. There are a lot of exciting plans in motion that we expect will knock your socks off and take the City of Heroes/Villains franchise to the next level. However, our highest priority is to ensure that the quality of all new content being brought to the game meets and exceeds your expectations. With that goal in mind we have built a solid plan that positions us well for delivering just that! We're still not quite ready to reveal the specifics of our longer term initiatives, but know that we will share this info as soon as we can.
We continue to aggressively recruit and expand our team to meet these goals. I'm very happy to report that we've been successful in bringing on board some fantastic talent. I believe we have one of the most experienced, creative, and impassioned development teams in the industry working diligently to take your game experience to places you've been wanting to go, but thought not possible.
Thanks again to you, the community, for making City of Heroes & City of Villains the great online experience that it is!
Best,
-Brian
-
Edition 36 of The City Scoop a publication for Supers by Supers!
While the City Scoop is made by the creative player staff, if you have any concerns regarding the content of the Scoop please feel free to direct your comments via PM to Lighthouse or Ex Libris.
If you would like to do a feature article, have an event covered, or join "The City Scoop" team please PM Dirtwolf, Snow_Globe, or Pants_Stealer
If you or someone you know should be considered for Behind the Mask Teldon or Encounters please contact MrsAlphaOne
If you need some Advice contact Lady_Athyna or would like to Ask The X contact LiquidX -
Edition 36 of The City Scoop a publication for Supers by Supers!
While the City Scoop is made by the creative player staff, if you have any concerns regarding the content of the Scoop please feel free to direct your comments via PM to Lighthouse or Ex Libris.
If you would like to do a feature article, have an event covered, or join "The City Scoop" team please PM Dirtwolf, Snow_Globe, or Pants_Stealer
If you or someone you know should be considered for Behind the Mask Teldon or Encounters please contact MrsAlphaOne
If you need some Advice contact Lady_Athyna or would like to Ask The X contact LiquidX
Discussion on the latest edition of "The City Scoop" is located here. -
/em Smack
February 1st's puzzle solution.
The City Scoop Staff
-
Food
& Recipes
Dessert Special
Got a sweet tooth? Well this is for you! Get your forks and spoons ready because
you will want to dive into these head first, maybe you will need some goggles
too.
Melon Refresher
4 cups cubed honeydew melon (1-inch cubes)
2 tablespoons Splenda
1 tablespoon melon liqueur
1 tablespoon lime juice
1. Line a baking sheet with plastic wrap. Arrange melon cubes in a single layer
on the prepared baking sheet. Freeze about 1 hour or until firm.
2. Let melon stand at room temp for 10 mins. In a food processor bowl combine
honeydew melon, splenda, melon liqueur, and lime juice. Cover and process until
smooth. Divide melon mixture among 8 martini or wine glasses.
Makes 8 servings.
Berries with Orange Cream
1 cup sliced fresh strawberries
1/3 cup fresh blackberries
4oz cream cheese, softened (1/2 of an 8 oz package)
2 tablespoons whipping cream
1 tablespoon Splenda
1 teaspoon finely shredded orange peel
1. Divide strawberries and blackberries among 4 small dessert dishes. Set
aside.
2. In a small mixing bowl beat cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium
speed until fluffy. Beat in whipping cream and Splenda until combined. Stir in
orange peel.
3. If necessary, stir in 1 to 2 tablespoons additional whipping cream to reach
desired consistency. Spoon cream cheese mixture over berries.
Makes 4 servings.
Peanut Butter & Chocolate Mousse
1/4 cup Splenda
1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup whipping cream
1 8oz package cream cheese, softened
2 tablespoons natural peanut butter
1. In a small bowl combine Splenda and cocoa powder. Set aside.
2. In a chilled medium mixing bowl beat whipping cream with an electric mixer
on medium speed until soft peaks form (tips curl); set aside.
3. In large mixing bowl beat cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium
speed for 30 seconds. Add cocoa mixture and peanut butter. Beat just until
combined. Add 1/2 cup of whipped cream and beat on low just until combined.
With a rubber scraper, gently hold in the remaining whipped cream.
4. Divide chocolate among 6 dessert dishes. Serve immediately, or cover and
chill up to 4 hours.
Makes 6 servings.
There you have it - some dessert ideas. Again, if you need to know the carbs or
fat or anything, PM me. Recipes are still welcome so send them my way. I have
been planning my articles weeks in advance and since I have been on a writing
spree as of late I have all my stuff done up until March - but as weeks pass I
get more ideas and keep writing. My husband said that if I keep it up I might
be done all my articles for the year by May! Stay tuned though folks. I have
another special edition coming your way next week!
~Mistress Noire
Flame Enchantress by Whiskey Sour and Autistic
-
Behind the Mask
Rubberlad & Rubberhubby
Couples that Play Together
Victory Server
Where do you two live?
Rubberhubby: Baltimore, MD.
Your ages?
RH: I'm 24 and he's 34.
How long have you two been together?
Rubberlad: Year and a half
How did you two meet up?
RH: Lol. Are you sure you want to know? It was the internet. We were united by
a common interest, and eventually a deep interest in each other.
RL: We dated primarily long distance at first - and the game helped us bridge
the distance on a daily basis. We moved in together 5 months later and have
been gaming together ever since.
So would you say that the game helped to strengthen your relationship?
RL: I'd say yes.
RH: It was a great excuse for us to get to know each other better. (And boy has
it!) We both came home from work everyday and immediately jumped into game and
onto Ventrilo waiting for the other to sign on.
So how do you two normally play together in game?
RH: We have desks facing each other so we can talk and make kissy faces across
the way if that's what you mean. :-)
RL: LOL
RH: There is almost never a time when we aren't on a team together. If one of
us is playing, the other is not far behind.
RL: Agreed - we play as a couple most often.
So who would you say is the better player of you two?
RL: I'd say Hubby. He can see beyond the interface to the numbers behind the
game and use them to their advantage. I'm more instinctive in my approach.
We're both very conscious of complementing our teammates though rather than
always taking the lead. He's also a crafting addict.
RH: That's true. Hey man, you wouldn't happen to have a luck charm I could
borrow?
Well what would you say is your favorite thing about the game?
RH: Character Creator!
RL: It's insane how may variations can come out of ICON sometimes. We love it.
But I think I'd also say the community. We've played for quite a while now (I
think I'm ahead by 2 years) and we have a lot of in-game friends that we've
stayed in touch with since the beginning. It's great.
RH: I'd say a close second is the SK system. It was really nice to have my
hubby be able to help me get to 50. You won't find that in WoW.
RL: Oh god yeah.
So which side do you prefer to play?
RL: Villains!
RH: It's so much more fun to be evil :-)
RL: I think its easier to play the Hero side but the Villain side is much more
interesting.
What archetypes do you enjoy playing the most?
RH: For heroes I love Blasters and Controllers, and for villains I love Brutes
and Stalkers.
RL: Blasters first and foremost, followed by Brutes. I'll also say the one AT I
can't play is Defender. I think you have to be really patient when playing a
Defender - partly because your progress is dependent on helping others finish a
mission.
What was your favorite feature they added to game in the last year?
RH: I love inventions!
RL: I think I would say The Ritki War Zone. I *hated* Ritki missions with a
passion prior to Invasion content. I didn't feel the love - but the zone revamp
and the Lady Grey TF definitely gave me a better appreciation for them.
RH: (nods head) I do love that Lady Grey Task Force too.
Finally, what do you think the future holds for you two?
RL: A commitment ceremony later this year. We've made our vows and exchanged
rings but we're going to do something a bit special for our friends and family.
RH: 60 years of rubber covered happiness.
I wish you two the best and hope that you have many happy and wonderful
years together!
Both: Thank you!
Mister Weekly
Triumph Server
Where in the world do you reside?
Saint Croix, Indiana. Deep southern part of Indy, with a population of less
than 60.
If you do not mind my asking, what is your age and gender?
25/Male
What do you do for a living?
I'm a foreman at an iron foundry.
What type of products do you make there?
Lots of industrial and automotive products. Lots of brake rotors and rear end
housings. It's one of the largest foundries in the US.
How many workers do you supervise?
About 26.
How long have you worked there?
Going on 5 years.
Are you seeing anyone special right now?
Indeed. My special someone is sitting right beside me we've been dating for
about a year and a couple months.
Are there any future plans?
Depends on her. She likes shiny things, though.
Do you two play the game together?
No, she's lucky to type 5 words a minute. I play with a cousin (Spike Malone)
and a friend of mine (Ren Karalchin) that have been my buds since we were
little kids. In fact, Ren's here doing the Manticore TF right NOW.
How often do you two team?
Every single day.
Do you have any hobbies outside the game?
I love cars and love to race.
What type of cars do you race?
I put almost every dime I earned in HS and College into a '66
Dodge Charger.
About how many races have you won?
No telling, I'm always doing something to it. It's got a 440, 4.10 gears, 4
wheel disc brakes, etc., and gets 4 mpg.
Do you have any pets?
Indeed! I have a flock of birds (2 african greys, and 4 cockatiels) and a black
lab.
So what would you say are your top five songs?
Beatles - Helter Skelter, The Who - Baba O' Reily, Foghat - Slow Ride, Bush -
Swallow, Tool - Schism and probably a lot others that I'll slap myself later
for forgetting.
What was the last good book you read?
Ender's Game. Awesome book, great author.
What is your favorite archetype in the game?
I gotta say I'm a blaster at heart. After that, scrappers. I'm a big fan of big
orange numbers.
Which side do you prefer to play?
Hero side for sure, but I've got lvl 50 villains. I just prefer the blue side.
Who is your signature character and what are they?
Mister Weekly - AR/fire blaster. I'm a big supporter of the /fire set - one of
the few (though I REALLY like energy melee).
What is your general playstyle?
Suicidal. Nah, actually it depends on who I'm teamed with. Ok, actually it
depends on who I'm playing with on a team. If I'm solo, I'm VERY tactful and
tedious, and can find a way to take out nearly anything. (I've soloed every
single TF that is possible hero side with this blaster.) If I'm playing with my
RL friends, I play suicidal - we don't care if we go down, as long as we have
fun doing it.
What is your greatest strength in game?
That would have to be experience. I've played every single archetype (and have
gotten nearly all of them to 50), have used almost every powerset, and have
done almost all of the missions. If I haven't used the powerset, I know someone
who has.
What would be your biggest weakness in game?
Hits that dupe the 1 shot code. I hate getting one-shotted by something that
does 2 different damage types. (I could say mezzes, but IOs take care of that.)
What drew you to this game?
This is the first MMO that I've ever played, actually. I heard good things
about it, and really wanted to try it out, so I went to Wal-mart and ponied up
the cash. I heard the character creator was AWESOME, and it was.
What was your biggest n00b moment in the game?
Slotting brawl on my very first toon, a claws/invul scrapper. (This was back
before you could hit things that were running, which is why I became a blaster
very quickly.)
What was the best OMG moment of the game for you?
I'd have to say my first Hami raid. It was just unbelievable how many people
were there.
What is your favorite feature of the game?
Love the co-op zones (like the new RWZ), and having set zones for PVP.
What one feature would you love to see added to the game?
The one feature I'd love to see added is on the Test server right NOW actually:
the Attribute Monitor.
What feature out of the past three Issues would you say you enjoyed best?
Veteran rewards is my favorite feature (from Issue 8). I loves my Nemmy Staff.
What advice do you have for new players to the game?
Don't get frustrated by a defeat or two or three, and don't worry so much about
long distance runs. 1.5 miles to the mission may suck with just sprint and your
good looks, but it'll be worth it.
Any closing comments?
Nerf /poison! (I kid, I kid.) Honestly, be good to one another, you never know
who you'll end up teaming with in the future
-
Base Showcase
F.U.S.I.O.N
Who is your base designer and who are your supergroup leaders?
I (Warface) am the main base engineer since we started this thing back in beta.
My Overlords (who have been with me the longest and run the show) are Terrible
Jen, Omacron Red, Carnada, Eddie Wrathchild, Deathrip and Kirra.
Which server is your base on, and is it a Hero or Villain SG/VG?
Protector Server (Home of Cimmi, The Jello Shooters, and Cheetoes) / Villain
Group
When was your supergroup established?
Day one of Beta, and then Day one of Live.
How many players are in your supergroup?
We have over 85 Individual Accounts. Our alts round out the 150 (this does not
include our gnome army that we keep in cages underneath our Pyramid).
What is the approximate value of your base?
Way too much... Close to 47+ million, which includes a FUSION Gen, AES, and
just about every room has 2-4 Elite Guns in it. I actually had to sell my liver
and spleen to have enough prestige. Its a good thing I'm a cyborg. Those parts
just slowed me down.
How much time do you spend working on your base? How much time have you
invested so far?
Good lord is there a way to tell? With completing about 42 raids or so... and
the redecoration before and after? /starts counting on fingers... toes... How
much is 15 hours a week since COV beta?
What is your favorite base item? Least favorite?
Favorite item available in editor? The AES (minus its insane power costs).
Player Created? Our Pyramid of Doom.
Least Favorite?
The non-stacking desks and blocks (without special ninja skills that is).
What is your favorite thing about base editing? Least favorite?
Favorite? Has to be building something new so cool that your SG and coalition
members come in and say 'WHOAAAAA'. Least Favorite? Non-stacking capability,
doorways that you can't put anything in, and no lava or water.
If you could give just one piece of advice to a new base editor, what would
it be?
READ! Come to the Base Construction forums. Some of these guys have written
EASY TO READ guides that will make your life VERY VERY easy. Most importantly,
HAVE FUN and try to include your SG in the process at least creatively.
What is the highest thing on your wish-list for new base items?
1. Stacking capability
2. Lava and Water tiles
3. Danger Room or at least the Arena Kiosk in base
-
The Arena
Test Server Arena Night
JAL vs. Velocity
Justice for All League (JAL) and Velocity mixed it up in the test server arena
this past Thursday - Feburary 7th, 2008. This match was for first overall in
the league hero ladder and promised to be a great one for both teams.
Justice for All League has been participating at a high level on the test
server seemingly forever. They have been disputing the top spot with Velocity
for some time now and claimed first place early last November. Since then, the
top few spots of the ladder have been relatively stable with Victory Reborn
making their way up the ladder.
Sadly, the test server ladder lost the long-standing and legendary Freaks of
Legend group, mostly through attrition, as its members moved to other teams or
other interests. Its remaining roster reformed under new leadership under the
name Taking It Too Seriously. With the arrival of Paragon Elite in the near
future, the Test Hero Ladder will be 11 teams large.
Alarys, one of JALs leaders, had a few words about her team:
JAL has traveled a long road to bring forward the team that plays tonight. We
have always enjoyed a smaller SG size, thus promoting a lot of chemistry and
teamwork between our players. Each player is exceptionally valued and everyone
plays their critical part in making us such a strong opponent. The leaders of
our team feel that our hard work and innovative thought will put us in a very
competitive position against the talented team we find in Velocity. We welcome
a new player in our starting lineup in xPc and see the return of our veterans
still holding strong to defend our ladder position. Our team is balanced
between strong offensive force and decisive defensive precaution. I look
forward to the matches against Velocity and seeing their best effort to take
rank 1 on the ladder.
The matches started around 9:45 p.m.
Match 1 drew the Steel Canyon map. Both teams ducked around the central statue
and adjoining buildings, laying Radiation Emission toggles and shooting fire
and psychic blasts while buffing.
The first few minutes were very tight, with Sonic shields reducing incoming
damage considerably, while some good spikes as well.
A slew of Illusion Control decoys were visible around the central plaza as the
match progressed, messing with player targeting. JAL brought Rad/Psy Defenders
for offense while Velocity carried Fire Blasters. Both teams had Sonics as well
as Kinetics, while Radiation Emission Defenders and Illusion/Empathy
Controllers rounded out the buff and debuff section.
The mid-game mark brought a series of player defeats against Scout, -serious
business and Soldier.
Match 1 ended in a 3-3 tie, showcasing the balance of high-end teams. serious
business (2) and Churro Girl (1) scored for Velocity while Medic (1), -Sniper
(1) and Heavy (1) scored for the Justice for All League.
Lonestar Lineup by Douglas
Shuler
Match 2 loaded into the Perez Park map, which affords considerable room for
cover in evading Blaster spikes. Despite the arthritic speed of your reporters
camerabot, I managed to catch a convergence of both teams in the small lake
area, where they exchanged blows for the first two minutes or so.
-Pyro, JALs Illusion Control/Empathy Controller, spent an early part of the
match in a Sonic Cage, preventing him from buffing or healing his teammates for
a short while.
-Demoman and Medic scored early kills for JAL while sorrows responded for
Velocity.
Some great evasion was seen on JALs part as Pyro was nearly defeated around
the 3 minute mark but managed to survive while at 30% health.
The pace picked up considerably past the 5 minute mark where JAL scored three
quick kills, winning the second Match 6-4!
Match 3 loaded into Striga Isle, again affording a vast array of options for
evasion to both teams. JAL had some tremendous spikes early on, but Annihilate
managed to retreat into a block of solid ice to survive, then defeat two
Illusion Control Phantasms on exit.
Velocitys quick recovery skills were superb as Annihilate was nearly defeated
at the 4 minute mark but was healed almost from zero.
Both teams furiously raced each other above the tree cover near Council Base,
reminding viewers of the treetop fight in Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. JAL
won the third game 8-1, with all of JALs kills coming from Radiation
Emission/Psychic Blast Defenders, with -Medic (5) and Demoman (3) to
Annihilates lone kill on Team Vs side.
With this thrilling win, JAL maintains the top rung of the hero ladder with a
2-0-1 match record.
I asked @Alarys, JALs leader, why they ran only Rad/Psys for offense instead
of the typical Fire/EM Blasters that many teams bring to matches:
We saw potential in a lineup that might become superior to Fire/EM blasters
and with the blaster changes our practice with this lineup only became more
valuable.
Psychic damage isnt resisted much, if at all, which gives this lineup a better
chance to push their damage spikes through the heavy fire and non-Psy resists
of Sonic shields.
JAL has been practicing that lineup since Christmas break in order to carry a
team that could beat the current lineups that everyone is using, mostly
consisting of Fire/EM Blasters backed by Sonics, Ill/Emps and a Kin.
GG to both teams and thanks for some thrilling play!
-
The City Scoop
The Arrow and the Mind
A Marriage of Heroes
By
Dirtwolf
Everyone loves weddings. Well, unless you're watching the girl/guy you love get
married to someone else, it's raining, some mishap just so happened to rear
it's ugly head, or you've got enemies who just so happen to be Arch-Villains
who head vast empires and have unmeasurable powers.
Those of you who have kept up with the City of Heroes comics should be aware
that Manticore and Sister Psyche were engaged to be married in the final issue
of the Top Cow series. Recently, it was announced that the Valentines event
would feature the two Supers' wedding. All your favorite Phalanx would be
there, plus a few others notables, and of course : The heroes and villains of
Paragon City and the Rogue Isles.
Even those who are sinister at heart pay homage to loving unions... Don't they?
Not quite.
I was lucky enough to attend the wedding with a select group of special guests.
I was requested to attend as a villain, and I did as asked. I arrived as my
energy melee/electric armor brute. Ex Libris invited me a team and told me to
assemble a PVP group. I kind of assumed she just wanted to talk about PVP or
something, so I grabbed up Putz and ir0x0r pretty quickly. We soon added Lady
Sadako and a few others.
We soon understood that it wasn't merely to talk turkey.
We entered the Ouroboros like zone and into a gathering of dozens of heroes and
villains alike. Positron warned us not to get on the podium like area. Synapse
was dashing around, Citadel was floating above us in an odd tuxedo, Lighthouse,
Ex Libris, War Witch, some woman named Tullip [who I later found out was "Ray",
apparently an internal tester from the NCsoft team who wanted in on the
reception buffet], Back Alley Brawler, Castle, etc.
Vol. I, Issue XXXVI
February 15th, 2008
This Issue:
Upcoming Events:
February 16th
February 17th
February 18th
February 23rd
Portal Corp Institutes Temporary Dimensional
Lockdown
PARAGON CITY, RI. (PT) On Febuary 8, facing increasing dangers of complete
dimensional destabilization, Portal Corp was forced to initiate temporary
lockdowns on the dimension "Gamma Epsilon 12-5" (Also known as "Freedom"),
preventing people from crossing over into that dimension. "We regret that such
measures had to be taken", said Tina Macintyre as she spoke to reporters, "but
we felt that it was necessary that with the increased influx of super powered
entities crossing over into "Freedom"." Portal Corporations researchers had
noticed that, despite new safeguards and recent upgrades on Portal Corp
technology thanks to the Freedom Phalanx member known as Positron, dimensional
instabilities were threatening the very safety of everyone living in "Freedom".
"You see", said Positron as he helped Tina Macintyre answer questions,
"According to Dr. Greg Egans theory known as the "Limit of Questions", a given
dimension can handle only so much chronospatial energy. This energy is emitted
not only by living creatures, but also by technology, "Magic", Mutations, and
so on. Now, normally, a given dimensional can handle much more chronospatial
energy then is present in it at any one time. However, Dr. Greg Egans theory is
that if a dimension is ever forced to hold MORE chronospatial energy that it
can withstand, it reaches such a point that the energy will tear the dimension
itself apart, essentially ripping open the very fabric of that reality and
creating a sort of dimensional black hole. This is, of course, a bad thing."
"Now under normal conditions, this wouldn't be a problem.", said Tina
Macintyre, picking up for Positron. "As Positron stated, any given dimension
can handle so much chronospatial energy that it's not really a problem. We can
safely transport plenty of people into a dimension, and it wouldn't even be a
drop in the bucket. However, there is a unique phenomenon that seems to be the
culprit. Namely, the strange solar radiation that effects superpowered beings.
We noticed that not only did this rare phenomenom affect *ALL* Dimensions at
the same time, but also that it seems to *increase* the amount of chronospatial
energy emitted by superpowered beings. So, with the recent influx of
superpowered beings to "Freedom", coupled with the increase of native born
superpowered "Freedomites", this has led to a dangerous situation. Hopefully,
we should have things sorted out and back into safe parameters soon. We will
continue to monitor the situation and keep emergency lockdown procedures in
place until then."
The lockdowns have led to mixed reactions among the superpowered community,
including inflaming debates about interdimensional immigration. "THIS IS
PIELOVN' TERRIBLE!!!", said The Legendary J-Man a native born "Freedomite". "I
was born in Freedom. Raised in Freedom. Ima plan on dyin' in Freedom. An' now
they's sayin' I can't go back 'cause of "instability"? Ya know, if'n they would
stop lettin' people migrate inta our dimension, this wouldn't be a problem fer
pie'n out loud". He then kicked over a trash can on his way to the back of the
line. Lighthouse, speaking on behalf of the Federal Bureau for Superpowered
Affairs, had only this to say: "We realize not everyone is going to be happy
about this. But we feel that Portal Corporation has taken the necessary steps
to safeguard innocent lives for the time being, and we will look into ways we
can prevent such unfortunate events in the future. In the meantime, we feel
that the issue of interdimensional immigration policies should be handled by
the individual governments of their respective dimensions."
Point / Counterpoint
This is the twelfth in a series of point-counterpoint articles, which will
review commonly requested player suggestions, and review the pros and cons of
those suggestions.
This weeks subject Side Switching
POINT:
For many players, the idea of being able to take their favorite hero or villain
and try their hand at the content from the other side is an intriguing concept.
We already have co-op and PvP zones in which the two sides come face to face.
All the content for each game is part of the client, and recently, every
existing account received access to the other side when NCSoft obtained the
rights to the IP for the City of franchise from Cryptic Studios. There is a
long history of comic book characters who have behaved in ambiguous ways when
it comes to the hero/villain divide, and there are other instances of outright
side swapping, so there is precedent. New content could be generated around a
mini-TF or mission which would allow for such a switch. Even if side switching
were not allowed, granting access to the other side's ATs could be granted
instead. The granting of either choice would potentially add new excitement for
veteran players who have done content on each side numerous times with several
different ATs.
COUNTERPOINT:
However, there are also some negatives associated with side switching. Part of
what makes each side unique is the choice of ATs that you can use. This would
be lost if each side had access to all ATs. In addition, some content may not
have been designed with the idea that certain ATs would be doing that content.
Some content would therefore need to be updated. There is also the possibility
that with access to all ATs, one side or the other may see a drop in activity,
as one side or the other's content may be favored. It may also conflict with
the game history, which may already be planned out for some time to come. The
manner in which contact trees would work would also have to be considered.
Finally, if the ability to swap sides existed, there would be no incentive to
purchase a copy of the game with access to both sides that was more expensive
than one that had access to only one side.
Pestilence Incarnate by IvoryLily
Advice from the X
Greetings, boys, girls, and beings of indeterminate gender! It's everyone's
favorite mercenary/advice columnist/love machine, LiquidX! Now, I know what you
may be thinking... "LiquidX, you big, handsome columnist you, where have you
been?" Well, that's a mighty good question. And since it's my job to answer
questions (at least, that's what the staff of the City Scoop insist my job is),
I'll start by answering that one. See, it seems that in the last Nemesis
Identity Crises that took place on infinite Earths with infinite crises (And
the occasional civil war), I was accidentally written out of continuity.
Thankfully though, Mr. Fish was nice enough (and by nice, I mean not motivated
by blackmail photos of which the negatives are currently on the way to his
secret P.O. Box) to retcon me back into continuity. Plus, I'm apparently 3/4ths
Kryptonian now. But I digress... on with the show!
"Dear LiquidX,
I'm a single mother of three, as well as a superheroine. However, I find it
difficult to juggle taking care of my children while still protecting the city.
I've thought about giving up crime fighting, but I just can't bring myself to
sit by while innocents suffer.
Sincerely,
Dyna-Mom"
Dear Dyna-Mom,
Have you thought about selling your children into slavery? There are numerous
organizations in the Rogue Isles that will happily pay top dollar for young
"recruits", and they wont even harm them. Much.
"DEAR: LIQUIDX,
REQUEST: URGENT: BUSINESS RELATIONSHIP
FIRST: SOLICIT: CONFIDENCE. TRANSACTION: CONFIDENTIAL: 'TOP SECRET'. CONFIDENCE
IN: READER: ABLE TO: PROSECUTE: GREAT MAGNITUDE TRANSACTION. TRANSACTION:
PENDING. MAXIMUM CONFIDENCE: REQUIRED. FEDERAL GOVERNMENT: TOP OFFICIALS:
INTERESTED: IMPORTATION OF GOODS. FUNDS: TRAPPED. ASSISTANCE: NEEDED. READER
ACCOUNT: NEEDED. ENABLE: TRANSFER OF FUNDS: TO ACCOUNT. SOURCE: AS FOLLOWS.
MILITARY OFFICIALS: ESTABLISHED: COMPANIES. REWARDED: CONTRACTS: OVER-INVOICED.
MILITARY REGIME: ENDED. CIVILIAN GOVERNMENT: REVIEW PANEL: ESTABLISHED.
INFLATED CONTRACT FUNDS: IDENTIFIED. PRESENTLY IN: CENTRAL BANK. PAYMENT: READY
FOR TRANSFER.
SINCERELY: HUMAN: ROYALTY. NOT: RIKTI."
Dear Human: Royalty,
...Sweet! I'm gonna be *RICH*! SO LONG, SUCKERS!
THE PLAYER EVENT RESOURCE COMMITTEE in
association with W00T Studios
Proudly Presents:
Here are the rules:
1. All entries must be a 25-45 second commercial promoting the City of
Heroes or City of Villains franchise. Max video size is 10 MB and can be in any
format for quality's sake.
2. All entries must be posted on
www.w00tstudios.net for consideration. Entrants will need a user
account to post videos. Only one entry per person please.
3. Any medium can be used (ex.: live action, gameplay, cartoon). Participants
are encouraged to use as much original content as possible. Entries can
incorporate certain elements of previous videos released by NCSoft or other
players, but cannot consist solely of such reproduced footage.
4. Entries cannot use obvious rip-offs of copyright-protected characters (in
other words, no Superman look-a-likes, no Wolverine clones, no Hulk clones,
etc). This rule does not apply to the use of established "City of" characters
(i.e. Statesman, Lord Recluse, etc).
5. All entries submitted via the W00T Studios site, need to be linked back to
the City of ___ Forums, in the Multi-Media~City of Heroes/Villains forum, in
the post marked CoC Contest Entries. Entries will be separated into Hero and
Villain categories.
Contest entries will be accepted from February 17, 2008 through March 16, 2008.
Public judging will run from March 17-22, 2008. Finalists will be judge from
March 23-28, 2008. Winners will be announced March 29, 2008.
Prizes, given to the top 5 entries for both Hero and Villains:
[u]Grand Prize[u]:
1 Statesman Statue and 1 Wootie Owl (for heroes)
1 Lord Recluse Statue and 1 Wootie Owl (for villains)
[u]Runner-Up[u]
1 T-shirt (not all sizes available)
1 Battle Poster (signed by any dev that Ex/LH can get their hands on)
1 Wootie Owl
[u]Honorable Mention[u]
1 Bumper Sticker/Comic Book pack
The gauntlet has been thrown. Will you pick it up and run with it?
Common Q/A:
Q: I have no clue how to make a video-- HELP!
A: The Feb. 8th edition of the City Scoop had a nice write-up on how to make a
video. Also you can find player guides linked in the Multi-Media Co___ Forums.
Q: What time does the judging start/end and what zone does the judging operate
on?
A: All times are Midnight ET.
Q: What do you mean by public judging?
A: There will be a poll set up on
www.w00tstudios.com for you, the general public to judge all the
entries received. We will take the top 15 favorites (hero and villain) from
there and judge them in the finals.
Q: Who will be judging the finalists?
A: No fewer then 4 PERC members will be judging the finals.
Q: What will the finalists be judged on?
A: We will be judging on 4 aspects. Originality, Professionalism, Creativity,
and Commercialism. This is a COMMERCIAL contest, not a music video contest.
Make sure that you sell, sell, sell!
Q: If I win, how will I get my prize?
A: If you win, be prepared for a member of PERC to contact you for your
shipping address. I promise not to stalk you.
Q: Will I need to register for this contest?
A: The only registration that you will need to complete is for the CoH forums
and www.w00tstudios.com.
Q: I have 2 commercials one for heroes and one for villains, can I enter both?
A: No, pick your favorite and post it--- share the other in the multi-media
forum!
Q: Rose, you are awesome, can I get a date?
A: I will think about it.... but I don't like catgurls.
Q: How will you contact the winners?
A: A PM will be sent to the CO__ forum name of the winning entry. At that time,
be prepared to supply your shipping address.
Q: Why do I need to link my video after it's been uploaded on w00t's website?
A: We need a way to contact you.
Q: Boy, this is a lot of questions and answers to type out... are your hands
tired?
A: Yes, I am going to stop presuming now, and let you come up with your own
questions... if you need to- feel free to contact any member of PERC and they
will get back to you with an answer, or post! We like to answer posts!
Correction!
It seems that we left out the links in the
"Toons on Film" article. Here they are!
Issue 10 (The
Rikti Invasion)
Issue 11 (A
Stitch in Time) teaser
Issue 11 (A
Stitch in Time) trailer
The "Time to
Start" music video
Other videos by
Samuraiko Productions
-Sincerely, Scoop Management.
-
[ QUOTE ]
Add a new one to the SAMURAIKO PRODUCTIONS cadre!
Make Love and War by Samuraiko Productions (YouTube version)
Yes, ladies and gents, this is my vid for the wedding of Sister Psyche and Manticore!
Michelle
aka
Samuraiko/Dark_Respite
[/ QUOTE ]
Thanks for the great video Dark_Respite. Just cause I like HTML here it is embedded:
<object width="425" height="355"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/8eQMj6pxJoE&rel=1"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/8eQMj6pxJoE&rel=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="355"></embed></object>
