CrossTopix

Official Cancellation of CrossTopix

2010-11-10T19:44:00.000-08:00

The day has officially come. Before I start ranting on the reason of the cancellation, I want to thank everyone who helped make the website, all the guests who participated with the site, and more importantly everyone who read the site! While I know it was a very small amount of people, I do appreciate those who would take the time out to check my site out. Now onto the reason:

After a couple different proposals on how to run the site, revamp it, and possibly go to video, I have decided to move on for the meantime. My reasons for this is the site hasn't taken off like I had hoped it would by this time and I have had several people who expressed interests at some point back out of the project. With CrossTopix, I believe it would be more interesting if more people than just myself were involved as I honestly don't want to turn the site into me being on a webcam ranting for 5-15 minutes on a certain topic or topics. With all respect to everyone out there, there's too many video sites like that out there and with this site I wanted to create something a little more interesting to read/watch.

While I have no plans to make any new updates to my site at this time, it's not to say that I might return to this site in the future. I'm not expecting it to happen for now, but in the past decade we have seen shows like Family Guy and Futurama back to TV, other websites once canceled brought back to the Internet, etc. If me and a couple others have a good idea, I will be more than happy to bring back the site.

At this time I have a couple personal responsibilities I would like to attend to and I am hoping that I will eventually announce another web project I do have in mind. I really liked working on CrossTopix and if I felt more people were viewing the site, I would have gladly continued to do so as I really do have fun producing CrossTopix. If it weren't for the real world or needing money, I would probably just do this everyday! :)

Once again, thank you all for your support! Look for a possible announcement on a new project that I'd like to start as early as 2011!

- STVO Kage

P.S. I will be leaving pretty much all the previous content of this website up and encourage you all to re-read or as NBC says, if you haven't read it, it's new to you! Feel free to message me with questions about the site or if you feel like discussing the topics: kingstvo@gmail.com

Cross X-amine: Neil Fitzpatrick, Author of the Comic Neil Jam Gives Us a Look!

2010-07-07T21:15:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the Cross X-amine on CrossTopix. For those new to the site, the Cross X-amine is a feature where I interview various talented artists about their works be it musicians, movie makers, or for today, comic artists. With me today is Neil Fitzpatrick, artist and author of his comic, Neil Jam. I met Neil at Anime Central last year and communicated with him again this year. I even picked up a copy of Neil Jam Harvest, a humorous read with a very unique style. Neil agreed to do an interview with my site in regards to what his works are about and more of what makes him passionate about doing them.
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STVO: For those who haven’t read Neil Jam, can you explain to everyone what it is about?

Neil: Neil Jam is, quite simply, the brand of cartoony comics that I make. The Neil Jam universe consists of a regular cast of characters, and I’ve been drawing their antics in various forms throughout the years. I’m currently producing a twice weekly web comic at neiljam.com, and I’ve self published a number of comic books as well. It’s a healthy mix of the surreal with the mundane.

STVO: Where did you get the ideas for your characters? Also everyone has big black pupils or perhaps missing eye sockets… what’s the deal with that?

Neil: Well, from the start, I suppose most of the characters were simply comprised of different pieces of me. I’ve added characters through the years, each of them ideally giving the comic an element it lacked.

And yes, they do all have that specific look with the big black eyes. I suppose that is the Neil Jam style. Every now and again someone will ask me "why don't they have eyes?" and I always respond with "they do have eyes, they just happen to be big and black." That's just how they roll in the world of Neil Jam. As to how or why I decided to draw that way, all I can remember in formulating the initial designs way back when was that I wanted it to be unique. That's how you know it's Neil Jam!

STVO: My personal favorite character from Neil Jam was the little bird named Jerry, I felt poor for the little guy who couldn’t make friends. What character is your favorite and why?

Neil: Well of course they all have a special place in my heart. The Neil Jam universe is somewhat vast, but I've pared that down for the web strip that has been running on neiljam.com. For that strip I've returned to what I consider the core Neil Jam group, with the characters that have been with me the longest and have helped shape what the comic has become more than anyone else.

I don't think that I could call Jerry (the little bird) my favorite, as that wouldn't be fair to everyone else, but I do find myself coming back to him more and more. Aside from his personality, which I do enjoy, I actually think a big part of the reason he's around so much is because he is such a little guy (literally), and is very easy to fit inside any given panel or strip. His daintiness is quite advantageous!

STVO: At the convention and on your website, I find you often doing homage art towards one of the most famous gaming icons, Mario! Would you say Mario is one of your favorite characters to draw and what other characters besides your own do you enjoy to draw from other cartoons, comics, or even video games?

Neil: One of the staples I tend to have on hand at conventions is a variety of original art pieces featuring a cornucopia of pop culture figures, which I dub "Neil Jam Icons." This includes video game icons such as Mario, who is probably the most popular character in my display from convention to convention. I actually think the most fun group of characters that I draw for these "Neil Jam Icons" would be the advertising mascots. There is something about characters like Kool Aid Man, Franken Berry, the Pillsbury Doughboy, and so forth, that hold a special and unique place in everyone's hearts, whether they know it or not. I don't think there's any way not to have a nostalgic love for those kinds of characters. As for other characters that I love, I'd say that Charlie Brown and Nancy, both of classic comic strips, are two of my biggest favorites.

STVO: What type of comics do you prefer creating: shorts similar to those in the newspaper’s “funnies” section or full-length comics such as Neil Jam Harvest?

Neil: I enjoy infusing Neil Jam into all facets of comics, whether it be short lil’ strips or full length adventures. I have found that the longer I go drawing one type of the aforementioned options, the more I get a hankering to create the other type. One thing I actually find myself doing is merging the two. With the longer comic book adventures, for example, I’ve been known to draw several separate chunks of pages and then ultimately piece them together to form a greater whole. As for the shorter newspaper style strips, like those I’m posting on neiljam.com, they can easily be manipulated into longer story arcs in addition to the short lil’ gags that those kinds of strips are more predominantly known for.

STVO: What are some of the future goals you have with the Neil Jam series? Perhaps a web cartoon?

Neil: My general goal is to simply keep at the comics. I want more and more people to know about and read and enjoy Neil Jam comics! I’d like to build the website with more updates eventually. I’d also like to make more all new and older out of print comic book material more readily available. As for an actual cartoon, I have no experience working with animation. Comics are my main passion, so if animation were to happen, the bulk of the work would have to be done by someone else. If that sounds good to anybody out there in internet land, holla at me!

STVO: Do you remember at Anime Central 2008 when my friend and I saw your ALF drawing and suggested you drew an Ed McMahon to accompany it? Yes, I know that’s a random question, but just thought I’d throw it out. Also, where is your favorite convention that you attend?

Neil: Now that you mention it, I actually do remember having a conversation like that about Ed McMahon! I wouldn’t have been able to tell you where or when I had that conversation, but an Ed McMahon request is something one does not soon forget!

As for conventions, I attend a good mix of both mainstream and indie shows, and I’d say my two favorites come from those two different fields. For the indie shows, the MoCCA Art Festival in New York is quite a happening show. And for the more mainstream shows, I’ve warmed considerably to Wizard World Chicago Comic Con over the years. The funny thing is that considering how very different the audiences are for those two shows, I actually sell almost the same amount of the exact same stuff
at each one. Just goes to show that both fanboys and hipsters can’t get enough of Neil Jam!

STVO: Final Question: What can we expect to see from you at Wizard World and what words would you like to share with fans, potential fans, and the people who read CrossTopix?

Neil: At Chicago Comic Con this August I plan to have a healthy selection of Neil Jam comic books, including a new issue (exact contents cannot yet be confirmed.) And of course, as anyone who has seen me at a convention knows, I will have what will probably be an insane plethora of Neil Jam Icons original art pieces. And there’ll be some other shenanigans to look for as well. So please, come on out and say hi!

As for “final words,” I would simply like to thank CrossTopix for giving me this outlet. I am very relieved to get this all off my chest. Comics are supposed to be fun. I’m a fun guy, and if you’re like me, I think
you’ll dig Neil Jam too. Thanks y’all!

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Special thanks to Neil for taking the time out of his day to spend time and conduct an interview with the site. Please visit www.neiljam.com to catch his weekly strips as well as finding out information pertaining to his upcoming comic book releases. If you’re planning on going to Wizard World Chicago next month, Neil will be on-hand along with “CrossTopix representative/founder” STVO Kage once again dressed as Disco Stu!

As always, follow the Facebook/Twitter/MySpace fan pages for CrossTopix to find out more info about site updates, conversation bits, and more! Not to mention, Neil is also on Twitter, so if you are a fan of his work and are a Twitter-aholic, don’t just sit there, follow his page!

CrossTopix #14: Top 5 Most Memorable Gaming Icons, Channel Identity Changes, Toy Story 3, Summer Time

2010-07-03T11:57:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the 14^th edition of CrossTopix! I’m glad to be here this week with a friend and an up-and-coming movie director. Before we get to the discussion, I want to discuss a little of the special announcement posted previously and some other important news. Starting with this edition of CrossTopix, for the time being, I will not be updating on a regular weekly basis due to outside priorities and the admitted lack of demand. The site does take some time out of my week, while I love CrossTopix, at this time other personal priorities/projects need some attending to a little more. I have full intentions of continuing with this site and providing content on a weekly or at the very least bi-weekly basis be it a CrossTopix discussion, a rant, an interview, or another feature. In the meantime, I am looking to recruit people to be a part of a regular staff of the site! Please check the requirements on my Facebook Note (http://www.facebook.com/?ref=logo#!/note.php?note_id=397221142881&id=30400667&ref=mf), I’m really looking to expand this site on a fuller scale! As always, for further updates and fun news, please add CrossTopix on Facebook, Twitter, or MySpace!

Without further ado, let me introduce this week’s guest. He’s one of the founders of Pigboat Productions (www.pigboatproductions.com) the director of Life at Grandpa’s (www.lifeatgrandpas.com) and the upcoming film, Sun for Sorrow. Introducing, Joe Harris!

Joe: My name is Joe Harris. I am a filmmaker out of Omaha, Nebraska. I am a self proclaimed nerd of all things, from video games, movies, wrestling, computers, music, and all sorts of other random subjects. I am proud of this, and think it makes me a more interesting person although some would argue that it just makes me obnoxious. I call those people my friends. It's an honor to be a part of CrossTopix, as I've been reading, just wishing I could interject my own opinions into this, and now I can! I hope my introduction into the series is enjoyable and interesting. So, uh...enjoy!

1. Top 5 Favorite Video Game Characters

STVO: I based this question on a recent Top 50 list from Empire.com (http://www.empireonline.com/features/50-greatest-video-game-characters/default.asp?film=50) My friends and I had many disagreements, I didn’t quite want to do a Top 50 on Crosstopix, but take 10% of it and you have a perfect Top 5 list! Mine will be personal favorites, not necessarily my favorite video games though:

5. Albert Wesker: On a list full of good guys (and all family-friendly characters) I needed one mature villain! While this choice is debatable, I felt this was a great choice. A former member of the S.T.A.R.S. team he proves to be associated with the evil Umbrella Corporation in the first Resident Evil title. He makes appearances in other titles but SPOILER ALERT you have your final battle with him in Resident Evil 5. While I’m fine with them choosing 5 to be his final title, I wish they would have had the rest of S.T.A.R.S. and the main good guys such as Claire Redfield, Leon Kennedy, Rebecca Chambers, and perhaps even Billy involved in this title to take him out. Oh well I enjoyed killing him like I enjoyed witnessing his menacing actions throughout the series.

4. PaRappa the Rapper: No stranger to PS1-core gamers but perhaps some of today’s casuals have forgotten him. He’s a silly rapping dog from PaRappa Town who is trying to win the heart of a flower named “Sunny Funny.” Does this game sound like somebody was getting high? You should see what happens when you play his games! PaRappa does his best to please his friends, his dad, and the love of his life. Plus he could beat any of today’s rappers in a freestyle battle!

3. Mario: An obvious choice on almost anyone’s top 5, but hey why not? He made appearances in so many video games be it his famous platformers, his racing games, sports titles, or even his all out battles with fellow Nintendo brethren. On top of that, he’s always cheery, he is about as mighty and fast as his competition, and he is more recognized by children than Mickey Mouse (according to old statistics at least.)

2. Link: A teenage medieval heart-throb to girls, a bad@$$ with an awesome sword fighting the craziest monsters. While Sonic and Sega took the place of Mario and Nintendo when I turned eight years old, Link on the Gameboy had me tune away from Sonic and others on my Game Gear. The Ocarina of Time perfectly represents the Link character and the Legend of Zelda series as well: timeless!

1. Sonic the Hedgehog: Has that 90s attitude and was a great portion of my childhood! When he arrived, he turned Mario from one of my favorite characters to “that old plumber” similar to Stone Cold Steve Austin with Hulk Hogan. While his games may not be that excellent today, at the time of his release, I loved his games, his ABC show, and his comics from Archie!

Runners-Up: Cammy (my video game crush), Solid Snake, the members of S.T.A.R.S., Willy Beamish, and way too many more to list.

Joe: Top Five Video Game Characters, huh? Ok, here goes. Prepare yourself for this, cause it's going to be ridiculous.

5. Harry from Pitfall
4. Miles "Tails" Prower from Sonic the Hedgehog
3. Pacman from...well...Pacman.
2. Mega Man
1. Hands down, Sonic the Hedgehog.

That's right, mostly retro. I roll like that.

2. Since 2005, Cartoon Network has explored airing live action television shows and movies on their

channel. MTV for a long time has not aired any music videos on a regular basis on their channel and has

recently claimed they no longer stand for "Music Television." What do you think of TV channels such as

those two changing their stance on what they air? Should it strictly be their original message or could they

air other stuff as long as it is good?

STVO: I’ve discussed MTV before and while I don’t like the channel, I’m over and been over it not being a music channel anymore. I really do miss the day of music videos regularly on TV (Fuse has been doing a very good job with it) because that’s how I would find new music and continue enjoying music from the artists I enjoyed. Something I loved from music videos were when they would add creative storylines, animation, or if you only had heard the artist on the radio and haven’t seen what they look like in a magazine (or for modern cases, see them online) you would get to see them on TV. Fortunately there’s Youtube today for videos, but sadly for Millenial Television (or whatever MTV means, they officially came out and said it’s no longer “Music Television” earlier this year), it’s just a bunch of garbage! Be it spoiled rich kids crying if there is an orange tiger at their birthday instead of a white one, a bunch of selfish/snobbish nobodies living in a beach house together, or whatever other boring reality show they have on, NOT INTERESTED!

Okay, sorry for my MTV dislike vent. While I don’t like these channels going too far away from their original message, I don’t mind if a couple programs are out of the norm. G4 (commonly known as the video game channel) is a decent channel. I love their video game coverage, I like that they air mostly good movies, and some decent popcorn shows like Attack of the Show, Ninja Warrior, etc. With movies like King of Kong, programming such as Cheat, Arena, the Major League of Gaming, etc. a channel 100% about video games could get tiring (they could add some Tech TV programming that they purchased, but even then I’d get bored.) As for Cartoon Network, I wish they would mostly stick to animated programming. I was entertained when they picked up GooseBumps and Pee-Wee’s PlayHouse for nostalgia reasons, but their reality programs for children and shows like Out of Jimmy’s Head make me want to see less. I’m not in the channel’s demographic, but it appears children don’t care much for those shows either from the cancellations of many of those programs and on the Adult Swim front, live action shows usually get cancelled quickly aside from Tim and Eric (see: Fat Guy Stuck in Internet and Saul of the Mole Men.) I have a whole rant on why Adult Swim/CN should focus more on animation, but I’ll save it for another day. Bottom line, networks should stick to what they’re good at (even if it isn’t making them the number one channel) and don’t try to be like every other channel but they can experiment every now and then.

Joe: My opinion on the CN and MTV debacle is that it is just that: A debacle. I think if your channel name is specific enough to describe the sort of thing that you want to be known for, then you should stick to it. Cartoon Network ceases to be the cartoon network when they stop being a network filled with cartoons.

The same is true of MTV. MTV stopped being music television a long time ago, but my question to them is this: If MTV doesn't stand for "Music Television" anymore, what DOES it stand for? Mainly Trash Viewing? I'd go with that. At least then the name would be consistent with the content aired on the channel. I just remember when "I want my MTV" was a mantra for an entire generation.

Now, I don't blame them for changing their business plan, but they should also change their name. It's a fairly ironic brand now. Anyone with an internet connection can go online and get music videos for free, so an entire channel devoted to them is financially ludicrous.

I think in summary, I should say that I don't mind the varying content, but I feel that they should change their brand to reflect these changes, instead of relying on what they used to be known for to sell what they are now known for.

3. What was your opinion on Toy Story 3? How did it compare to the other 2 movies?

STVO: I had the pleasure of viewing Pixar’s new money making gem on opening day. It was a very good movie. To prepare myself for that day, I watched both the original Toy Story and Toy Story 2 a few days before I went to see it. The ranking system: Toy Story > Toy Story 3 > Toy Story 2. They are all good movies but the original stands out as one of my favorites because it led to more 3D animated movies being produced and it just has so much charm. Not to say that Toy Story 3 didn’t.

As most of us know, Disney at one point planned to make a third Toy Story without Pixar. I’ve heard positive things about Chicken Little, liked Meet the Robinsons, but didn’t care much for Bolt. While they have some charm, none of them came close to matching up with a Pixar movie. With that said, Andy growing up and going to college was a good story to run with and it was a great way to end this fun series. Sure they could continue it (how? You’ll have to watch the movie yourself) but it would be really pointless if they decided to.

I have to say I preferred Shrek Forever After a little more though. For one, I was more impressed with Dreamworks’ use of 3D in this one as it popped out a little more while Toy Story 3 didn’t seem to use it all that much (I can’t really think of a particular scene standing out in it while I can say the witches in Shrek did stand out.) I found myself laughing a little more during Shrek as well. One thing I did like in Toy Story 3 more were the characters. Ken and Barbie cracked me up, I always enjoy Mr. and Mrs. Potatohead, and if you look closely, you’ll find a “My Neighbor Totoro” doll in the movie. If you’re a Hayao Miyazaki fan, you’ll really appreciate it. :)

Joe: I hate to really say too much about the plot, just because I hate spoilers, but I will say that it was the kind of story that captivated me as an adult, in just the same way as the original 2 captivated me when I was younger. I think they successfully changed with their aging audience, while keeping the integrity of the original films. The humanity that was on display and the themes that were presented really struck a chord with me, because things like change, growing up, and this idea of brotherhood and camaraderie are things that we have to deal with perhaps more as adults than we did when we were children.

I know that you have said that you thought Shrek 4 was better, and I respectfully disagree. If you'd like, we can discuss that further. I am pretty steadfast in this opinion though. Overall, I definitely recommend it. I am going to see it again, I know that. Probably not worth seeing in 3d, as I feel not all movies need to be seen that way to be enjoyed fully, and this doesn't seem like the kind of movie where you'd need that, honestly.

As a side note, I watched the movie, and because I'm a nerd, I literally went..."This scene is going to be in the video game. This scene is going to be in the game. There's going to be a running jumping part on a conveyor belt. Etc."

4. What is your favorite thing about summer? Is there anything you are particularly anticipating?

STVO: This is my 2^nd summer living in downtown Chicago. I love it here! Since 2006, I have been going with my friends to the Taste of Chicago at least one day of the year. I went last Saturday and it was a lot of fun! Plenty of great tasting food, but remember, the key is to sample first and if it sounds good, grab it right away because you might not return to that section. Whether it is taking a trip through downtown Chicago, a vacation to another state (which sadly I won’t be this year), finding a theme park or carnival to go to (Six Flags Great America will definitely be visited closer to the end though), etc. My buddies and I always get in great adventures (or misadventures) during the summer.

Joe: Oh man, the last 6 or 7 summers have all revolved around filming movies. I don't think I have ever not filmed something during the summer for most of my adult life. I think that is probably the one thing I look forward to the most. I know that I'll be doing something creative during the summer, and that always excites me.

I think the other thing that I enjoy about summer is the Fourth of July. We always have a great big party, and the family gets together. We have a grill out, drink beer, and have a big bonfire as we watch and light fireworks.

That's about it for my summer experiences. Definitely filming and definitely the fourth parties.

That’s all for this edition of CrossTopix! Special thanks to Joe Harris for contributing to this edition of CrossTopix. There’s going to be some fun articles posted throughout the weeks be it interviews, some of my rants, etc. No official dates set yet but be sure to join the Facebook, Twitter, or MySpace fan pages to find out more about when I make CrossTopix updates! Also, if you are interested in joining a team to build a better website, please read the following note and get in contact right here!

Have a great weekend and a fabulous 4^th of July!!!!

All Gamers Week: Pre-E3 Speculation!

2010-06-13T19:42:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone! Welcome to the First Annual edition of CrossTopix’s All-Gamers Week!!!! Since I’ve started CrossTopix, I (STVO) have always wanted to do discussion on video games both past, present, and future. Since 1996, I loved reading issues of Electronic Gaming Monthly where there was coverage about the hottest new games (and the hot booth babes) from an amazing show that seems like heaven to a video game nerd like me. The Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3) is one of the highlights of the year for me and considered to be an equivalent to a week of the Superbowl to the most hardcore of gamers.

Tonight, we start this week off with the speculation thread. Tonight I will be commenting as well as a new contributing writer, hardcore Xbox 360 gamer, Mark Shenefelt (Xbox Gamer Tag: whysoserious08.) He will be sharing his thoughts with me tonight and post thoughts later on. Matt B. Wild of Explicit Gamer.com is expected to join us this week as well sharing his thoughts during and after the show!

Folks, this is Mark, welcome him...

Without further ado, LET’S SPECULATE!

Of the games announced so far from E3, which ones have interested you the most so far?

STVO: Last year’s E3 returning to the glory it was in 2006 and the years before was a greatly welcomed return. Last year Nintendo revealed New Super Mario Bros, Super Mario Galaxy 2, and Sin & Punishment 2, Microsoft showed off Alan Wake, announced Metal Gear Rising, and showed off Project Natal. Sony had some very exciting announcements as well. Here’s hoping this year’s edition meets or exceeds last year’s presentation.

As for the titles I anticipate, a couple stand out from IGN’s Big Game List: http://games.ign.com/articles/108/1086456p1.html . Naughty Bear on PS3/Xbox 360 looks like a simple yet entertainingly funny title following in the footsteps of Conker’s Bad Fur Day. While I still haven’t gotten around to playing the original Dead Rising, I want to play that as well as the upcoming Dead Rising 2 as it looks like it will be an insanely fun game where I can kill zombies in oh-so-many different ways, and trust me, I love fighting hordes of zombies! On the download side of things: Bonk, Sonic the Hedgehog 4, and the long-awaited return of NBA Jam should be amusing to see as I will likely look into downloading at least one of those titles this year. Gears of War 3 and Halo Reach will satisfy my Xbox 360 urges from Microsoft. Little Big Planet 2 should be a winner and while I don’t own a PSP and likely won’t for a while, I’m interested to find out more on Parasite Eve’s 3^rd title known as The 3^rd Birthday, I loved the first game. As always these titles are only the beginning, the bigger and better titles are usually revealed at the show.

Mark : Well, where to begin? I suppose, first off, I should mention that for the past couple years E3 has just not done it for me as a gamer. Microsoft, at least, has changed their style to showing more of the games expected to be released within the year to early next year. No longer do they show a game that may be two to three years out. That wouldn't be so bad if they showed an ample amount of game play footage and information on the games, however, mostly we see just cinematic trailers with a couple teases of in-game footage and maybe a couple tidbits about what we may see in the game come release time. It seems we get to see more of the game during other, not-so-big, events later in the year, which makes me, wonder if E3 is really even worth it. I suppose if you really wanted to show a game before it is released in July or August that would be ok, but do we really need this big of an event to do that? Well hopefully this year can change my mind. As for the announced games that I find interesting, I'll make a list of the top 5 and why:

1. Rage - Published by Bethesda Softworks and Developed by Id Software, Rage looks to me like Fallout/Borderlands hybrid, which is nothing to laugh at. Both those games were great, and Rage looks to take the best of both worlds offering a giant, war-torn, world with tons of sidequests, creepy freaks running around, looting (a personal favorite) and the bottom line; blowing S**t up! Not to mention graphics that look amazing and a team that helped create DOOM. Add in vehicle combat and a ton of gore and you have my attention.

2. XCOM - 2K Games and 2K Marin join together to take on a reboot of a sci-fi franchise. This studio is responsible for Bioshock 2, which in my opinion was decent, but I love the Bioshock franchise and that is why I have high hopes for this game. 2K in general makes good games and I am excited to see what they have to show for this one.

3. Mafia 2 - Another game by 2K, Mafia 2 is a sequel to the original Xbox game; Mafia. While that game was disappointing, it did have potential. Years later and everything that needed help in the first game appears to have been given a lot of attention and after watching a couple of gameplay trailers for the sequel, I can definitely say this will be on my radar till release day.

4. Tom Clancy's Ghost Recon: Future Soldier - Plain and simple, I love these games from Ubisoft and the last in the series spent a lot of time in my console. The graphics were tight, the controls spot on and they updated the game with a ton of DLC. If they keep up the same routine while adding new things I will continue to buy. I can't wait to see where they go from here, however, I do partially feel like I would like the series to go back to its roots and leave the whole 'future soldier' thing out of its games for a while. I would love to see a Ghost game set in Vietnam. Of course I think other games should head to that war too such as COD and Battlefield (they did once before but not with a campaign and updated game engine from DICE).

5. EA Sports - I have to combine these into NHL 11, Madden 11 and their new MMA game. EA no doubt started off poor with sports games for the new generation. However, now they are dominating the field. While their Madden series doesn't have much competition after gaining exclusive rights to the NFL license, that doesn't mean that they stop improving on the franchise. Each year they get better and better and I am excited to see what is next. Same goes for NHL 11, which is already looking promising with a new physics engine that will make hitting in the game more realistic!!! And most of all, the new MMA game which I think if they follow Fight Night 4's graphics and control scheme they will be hard pressed to beat even by THQ.

2. Sony/Microsoft are ready to go the motion control paths with their consoles with PSMove and Project

Natal. Will these devices deliver at E3 and will you buy at launch? Also, feel free to add some titles you'd

like to see for each device and make a prediction what the official name for "Project Natal" will be.

STVO: Okay, I like my Nintendo Wii system but it’s not as good as my Xbox 360 or PS3. Why is it that? The motion controls just don’t live up to the hype that was initially built up for it. Okay so titles like Boom Blox and Wii Sports are fun to play with motion controls, but other games get gimmicky, repetitive, or just plain dull. Usually when I play a game, I try to opt for the Gamecube or Classic Controller option instead. Anyway we’ve been here and speculated that on CrossTopix (well Nick Smith and I at least) let’s not make this one a rerun.

I’m reading that Sony/Microsoft want to price their equipment at $80-$100, a stiff price but very reminiscent of Nintendo releasing their balance board for Wii Fit at this price. If we really expect motion controls to be the standard for gaming, these devices NEED to be responsive! Also, they better work their tails off to make sure they don’t receive buckets of shovelware like the Nintendo Wii regularly receives and exceed them in what they usually exceed Nintendo in: mature titles. I want to grab a giant gun and blast the Flood in Halo, I want to grab my Dragon Sword as Ryo Hayabusa and slash demons in a full 1080p HD beauty of Ninja Gaiden 3, and so forth. No more wave controller (or with Xbox: your hand) at the screen to play skiing, snowboarding, or a track race, lets be more creative with motion controls! If I see these kinds of titles at E3, it will hold my interest, if I read reviews about them delivering; I’ll shell out some cash! In the meantime, I’d rather have a game controller.

As for Project Natal, it will have a new name. I’ll guess X-Perience, RefleX-box, or Xbox 1080. I know I’ll be wrong most likely….

Mark: On the Xbox 360 side of things, I suppose it was only a matter of time before Microsoft and Sony played catch up with Nintendo in this field. Personally I think motion control is a neat gimmick but should by no means become the standard for videogames. Just like 3D, I hope motion control is a kind of fad that may not go away but becomes an option for gamers. If I feel like picking up a controller then I should be able to. I can't see playing games like Halo or Fable by doing nothing but moving a controller or standing in front of your TV. Nor should that be acceptable by the gaming community. I will most likely buy at launch if some good titles are announced or if I feel like throwing a bowling ball down an alley without leaving the house, but I don't see myself using motion controls on my hardcore games. I will give the leg up to Sony though because at least, like Nintendo, the gamer will have the controller and the motion controls all at once, which is something that turns me off about Natal. For Xbox, I would like to see a FPS that comes with a full sized gun (ala DuckHunt) that will work with Natal. As for the name for Natal? " Xbox Motion" or "Motion-X" or something.

3. How the heck will the Nintendo 3DS work? Will Nintendo revolutionize again or will it end up as just another gimmick or perhaps a Virtual Boy?

STVO: Well, well, well… Looks like the “always behind” Nintendo (first the disc-format then online, then HD-gaming…) has finally taken a leap and decided to be the first company to produce a console in 3D. I’m interested but at the same time upset. Last year I purchased a Nintendo DSi because I thought they wanted to pump a few more years into the system’s life by going the route of gaming downloads. With how many models of the DS they have produced and the GameBoy as well (I was suckered into a Gameboy Color followed by a Gameboy Advance) this shouldn’t be a surprise. 15 years have passed since the Virtual Boy and Nintendo hasn’t released a colossal failure. Nintendo has proven that they can make a gimmicky premise such as a two-screen stylus controlled portable or a video game console requiring a motion waving controller to be successful.

My guess is the 3DS will be the same format as Nintendo DS with the two screens and quite possibly a stylus but holographic images emitting from the screen. Some will require you to touch the holograms some will require you to dodge. I don’t know if it will require glasses or not, preferably not. Finally there are only two more things I can say: Nintendo will make it work and Sega should port their old Time Traveler arcade game to it!

Mark: I don't know and I don't really care. I will say this, Nintendo DS has had a long and productive life and I am sure Nintendo wouldn't make this move unless they were sure it would generate some buzz and revenue. It might not be as big as the Wii was with motion controls because 3D technology is still new to us as consumers and developers so I am sure there will be some uncertainty. Add to the fact that they keep coming out with different versions of the DS every year or two which might put people off.

4. Make a list of 6 titles you'd like to see shown that have been announced but not revealed or that you'd like to see (answers i.e.: Zelda Wii 2, Pikmin 3, a new 3D Megaman game, Goldeneye for Xbox Live Arcade, etc.)

STVO:

1. StarFox Sequel: Traditional air fighting like StarFox and StarFox 64, absolutely no outside the vehicle

battles! Also, unless Nintendo is REALLY confident that a 2^nd or 3^rd team really feels they can capture

the spirit of StarFox, have a Nintendo internal team develop it. Preferably for Wii, but WiiWare or

DSiWare would be fine too. While they’re at it, how about releasing the original StarFox from SNES on

the Virtual Console?

2. Zelda Wii Sequel: A given for me. I like Mark’s ideas and agree Zelda needs to be fresh. I don’t care

for Wii Motion Plus, but if I have to get it to play this, I will. The rumored concept of Link not having a

sword is interesting, but shouldn’t be the whole game. Maybe start it off right away with him having

the sword and a foe steals it later on requiring you to use your bombs , bow and arrows, etc. until you

corner that thief and challenge it to a fight then carry on again. Also, keep the graphic style to Ocarina

of Time and Twilight Princess, leave the Wind Waker-style for the portable systems.

3. PaRappa the Rapper 3: It’s cutesy, but sue me, I love that series! Put it on PS3, make it 1080p and just

create a luscious 2D environment with our familiar flat, paper-thin friends sing their funny songs in an

all-new adventure.

4. Pikmin 3: I’m on a sequel frenzy, but I love these titles. Pikmin with the Wii remote could be very

fun and if Miyamoto is involved with this title like the other 2, I would love to play it again. The game

may appear cute, but it requires a lot of strategy and those giants show no mercy on eating your

Pikmin alive or horrendously murdering them by stomping on them!

5. 3D Mega Man Title (Not MegaMan Legends 3): Sorry to all the Legends fans, the first game was

decent but holds no candle to the original MegaMan series 1-10. My buddy Matt B. Wild did an article

previously on Explicit Gamer discussing this issue and when he brought the idea of the original Blue

Boy fighting classic enemies such as Cut Man or Guts Man in full 3D glory, I drooled. Capcom filed a

trademark to “MegaMan Universe”, could this be a new title? One I’ve waited for since the PS1/N64

days?

6. Any New Exciting IP: Cop-out answer but I love a new series waiting to happen or one solid stand-alone title. In this generation we have seen Alan Wake, Little Big Planet, Gears of War, etc. I love sequels but I also like expanding with new games and characters (or for puzzle games, concepts.) So Nintendo, Sony, Microsoft, Capcom, etc. Get CRACKIN’!!!

Mark: I like all your ideas STVO. A new Zelda game is always welcome, but they need to do something new, I suggest adding RPG elements to the game such as leveling up and item looting. Goldeneye for XBLA is another great idea, but they did release Perfect Dark already so it might not sell as well. I would like to see something more for Borderlands, either a sequel or some new DLC announced. I don't think it was announced as an attending title but I would like to see some Two Worlds 2 game play footage and more about the game. I, unlike the mass population, loved that game. It had terrible graphics, bad voice over and glitches/frame rate issues everywhere, but it was fun and had some of the best looting/item management in an RPG. I would also like to see some Red Dead Redemption DLC and Battlefield Bad Company 2 DLC announced. Lastly I would LOVE to see Far Cry 3 announced with some footage shown. Far Cry 2 was great, some of the best graphics on the console with great game play ideas. There were just a few glitches and no winning MP or DLC support to make it stand above the rest.

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Alright! That is all for the speculation! Check out all the news all over the web and tomorrow on G4TV. As of right now, it has been confirmed that Project Natal is now being called Kinect! Lots of late breaking news and by joining CrossTopix on Facebook, Twitter, or even MySpace, we’ll link you to many of the stories around the web and create fun discussions! All Gamers Week continues all this week and by joining the fan pages, you will know when updates are made to the website and more!

Cross X-amine: An Interview with (the band that) NEVERWHAS

2010-06-12T22:18:00.000-07:00

Welcome to a new edition of the Cross X-amine! It's been a few months since I've done one but upon further talks with some friends who have interesting projects going on, I have a couple interesting ones that should be going on between now and a few months ahead! Today though, I speak with an exciting rock band from St. Charles, Illinois. Introducing Michael Rubicz providing vocals and guitar, Nik Rubicz also providing vocals and guitar, Rick Rubicz on drums, and Chris Conrades on bass guitar. They are a band.... the band that NEVERWHAS!

Conducted via Facebook messaging with Nik, the answers are provided by Nik and his brothers as a whole.
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STVO: When did Neverwhas form and how did you guys decide to start it?

NEVERWHAS: NeverWhas formed in/around October of 07’. Rick had always been interested in percussion and finally got himself little rock kit and started jammin with Mike and Nik in our folk’s basement. Soon after, we found a bassist (who no longer plays in our group) and started writing songs together and collaborating on songs Mike had already written.

STVO: You guys have a very catchy rock beat (and I've listened to your stuff recently and I have to say I really do like it!) What rock artists inspired each of you?

NEVERWHAS: The interesting thing is that everyone collectively has so many influences in so many different genres of music that it all comes together in a big musical melting pot. It really is hard to say where our sound comes from. Readers of this blog may need a bigger hard drive to house all of the groups we are inspired by. =)

STVO: You guys currently have three albums out: We Grow Skulls, Branded New, and your latest, Original Rock Original Roll. Do each of you have a personal favorite or recommendations what new listeners should introduce themselves to with first?

NEVERWHAS: Original rock, Original Roll is an E.P. so far, and is a great example of how a band can grow together and inspire each other to progress as musicians. In addition, it is the latest recording we have, and it features Chris playing bass. He really adds a flare to his side of the stage and his style is a huge compliment to the new tunes we have recorded.

STVO: On June 19th, I noticed you will be performing at the Chord on Blues in St. Charles, IL. Everyone, it's only $5 cover and if you're off on a Saturday night and in town, I recommend it. Where are some other venues you all have performed and what one is your favorite?

NEVERWHAS: We all really love jammin’ at Chord on Blues because the stage has an old soul to it. Many great blues acts have come through there with their beat up guitars and smokey voices and you can feel the energy emanating from it. That in turn helps us to convey our energy to the crowd and it really makes for an awesome experience for everyone.

Recently we have also played a rockin’ set at Rockford’s Bar 3. It is an old strip club and one side of the stage is a wall of mirrors. Without sounding vain hopefully, as the performer, you can look to the side and see the full picture of the band while on stage. It lets you know you are real, and what you are doing is actually happening.

We look forward to performing there again in late July.

STVO: CrossTopix has discussed this issue a couple times: I've noticed you sell your music on both CD and iTunes. Do you guys have a personal preference of what format you produce your works on or what you'd rather stick around with?

NEVERWHAS: The best thing about creating and recording music independently is that you get to hear what you’ve done any time you want……and it’s free-after the cost of production of course.

I suppose that question would be better answered as a fan of music, not a creator of it.

Technology has given us a way to get the music and movies we want faster and more efficiently, but, who doesn’t love rippin’ open that security seal with their teeth and unfolding a sweet looking artistic panel filled with lyrics, pictures and other colorful representations from the bands mind.

We have done well so far on itunes and other e-music sites, and with disc sales as well. As long as the music is getting to the listener, we can leave it up to them to decide how they want it.

STVO: Since you guys are living the lives or rock'n'rollers, we all know some of the most famous have done or been in crazy situations where bats heads are bitten off and hotel rooms are trashed! I don't know if you guys are that crazy, but are there any crazy stories from your concerts you think you can share?

NEVERWHAS: We get crazy on stage. Most of our off stage, after show experiences have been filled with boisterous laughter and conversation over beers with friends/fans. Destruction isn’t our thing. We want to be invited back to places we go. But Mike did smash a guitar in a parking lot during one of our Halloween sets a couple years back……energy…….the energy consumes you. And you have to let it.

STVO: Finally, what are some parting words you guys have for aspiring music artists? Also what are the band's next big plans for the next years?

NEVERWHAS: We have only scratched the surface in this industry, but so far, striving to have fun has been a key part in staying happy and creative. Ya’ lose that, and you might as well start writing laundry detergent jingles, there is money in that I hear.
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Special thanks to all four members of (the band that) NeverWhas for taking their time out to speak with CrossTopix! If you are interested in listening to some of their jams or finding out even more info with the group, visit www.neverwhas.com. Just like CrossTopix, you can find NEVERWHAS on Facebook, MySpace, and also listen to them on Jango.

Once again, NEVERWHAS will be performing this coming Saturday June 19th at the Chord on Blues in St. Charles, Illinois. It is located on 106 S. 1st Avenue, St. Charles, IL (www.chordonblues.com). The show starts at 8:30 PM, $5 admission, plenty of drink specials, must be 21.

Tune in later tonight for the start of All Gamers Week!

CrossTopix #13: Top 5 Inspirational Songs, Music Artists that Lip Sync, South Park, and Downloadable Game Services

2010-06-09T19:57:00.000-07:00

Welcome to CrossTopix! We have a great edition lined up those into music. This week we have Nik Rubicz, the guitarist from (the band that) Neverwhas this week! Before I let him introduce himself, let me remind all of you that CrossTopix is on Facebook, Twitter, and MySpace! By following on any one of these three pages, you get instant notification of when the next site update is, discussion questions, and links to news pieces you would find interesting. Next week is E3: The Electronic Entertainment Expo and when the news breaks, CrossTopix will provide the links. Now without further ado, introducing this week’s guest, Nik Rubicz!

Nik: Hi my name is Nik, I'm the guitarist for (the band that) Neverwhas. We're a dedicated modern rockband and we'll be performing at Chord on Blues on June 19th. 21+, $5 cover, lots of great specials and of course, great music!

1. Top 5 Songs That Have Shaped Your Life

STVO: I’m not as good as describing music as musician such as Nik but I am going to post video links to each of my choices. Each song I pick whether it is serious, humorous, or sad has played a role in my life. These songs are not in any particular order.

1. Dire Straits – Money for Nothing

2. Ben Folds Five – Brick

3. Collective Soul – The World I Know

4. Foo Fighters – Big Me

5. Rick Derringer – Real American (Yes, Hulk Hogan's WWF/WWE Theme)

Nik: Lets see. There are so many songs that have shaped my life, it is so hard to pick 5! I will try my darndest!

1. Pink Floyd – Marooned – From: The Division Bell
This song reminds me of Galena IL. We used to go up there every summer and fish. My dad would play the album all the time. The song has such a sway to it that makes you feel like your floating. A totally airy song with hints of moisture… I think I got a lot out of Pink Floyd in my early days.

2. Phish – Reba – Live at McNichols Sports Arena 11/17/1997
The first time I heard this song, I wasn’t in to Phish at all, but the first time I heard this was the first time that I felt encompasssed by musical emotion. The jam that they provide is well beyond any talent I’ve heard anywhere else today, IMO. This song made me realize that song structure (and life structure) is not always needed, and that improvising is just plain Bad Ass! Good things happen without warning.

3. Staind – All Songs

I can’t say that one just one song from Staind shaped my life, pretty much all of their tunes. I don’t normally like heavy structure that conforms to a specific genre of music, but Staind does it in a way that just always sounds good. I used to be a dishwasher when I was 15-16, and Q101 was always playing. This music brings back so many memories and feelings. Great times of life. Staind has continually kept their sound just as bad-ass as it was years ago.

4. George Strait – Amarillo By Morning
Anyone who has heard this song and listened to it words know what I mean when I say that this song is tops. This song changed my life when I heard it. It still does. Its powerful, and true. George picks songs that he can relate to, which makes him a killer artist because he plays with emotion and experience. There have a been a many times with Straits’ music that I can really connect with the words. I'm not usually a lyric buff, but I listen well to words he sings.

5. Joe Satriani – Clouds Race across the Sky – From: Engines of Creation
This song was always playing on the bus ride to school when I was a freshman and sophomore in HS. This song has a beautiful mixture of electronic beats, and atmospheric guitar phrasing. I remember wanting to play like Joe for so long solely because of this song.

2. Recently, Ke$ha has called out Britney Spears for occasionally lip-syncing at her concerts. What is your opinion of artists who aren't at their full game when they perform? Should they perform to the best they can, have a soundtrack blast behind them, or just call the show off?

STVO: I look at it this way: if I want to listen to a CD or recorded version of the song, I’ll find the video on Youtube or buy the song on iTunes. With the prices of tickets for any event these days, unless you really love the band or singer and might try to meet them following the show, why on earth would you pay the extra money to hear something you can download or purchase for much less money? I understand with pop stars there are a lot of pressure with them looking good, having catchy songs, and dancing incredibly well, but when it comes to music, it shouldn’t be entirely about having a flashy costume, incredible pyrotechnics, and sexy fly girls dancing in the background, it’s about having fun with music!

Simply put, if you have a concert, you better be singing! That’s what people are paying to hear. Milli Vanilli got in trouble for lip syncing. Okay, so they didn’t really singing the songs they performed while other artists like Britney Spears and Ashley Simpson did but weren’t singing in their MTV/SNL performances, but the fact is it makes them look bad. As for not being able to perform due to being too drunk, are too sick, etc. While it would be a big letdown for the paying customer, it’s understandable BUT the people who paid for the show should be refunded that money. I once paid to see Dark Lotus but they canceled a week before the show for reasons I can’t remember, but fortunately I was refunded for my ticket. The only time where I can understand tickets not being refundable is if the artist passes away.

Nik: In my opinion, all live music should be played live. There should be no soundtrack. That being said, I guess I can see why POP stars need this special treatment. I believe they are under heavy stress by many people, and perhaps live music isn’t fun for them anymore. Once you get so big and are in the headlines and are the “Forefront of modern Pop”, I think you are more expectable to the pressure of NEEDING to perform. I don’t think you get to pick and choose what you want to do as much, as when you weren’t so big. I always say the show must go one, unless you are totally unable to perform.

I think that sound tracking is big in music now, just because of how electronically sampled and choreographed everything is. You literally cannot dance around and climb banners and do aerial tricks while hitting perfect notes and rhythm. Try it. These pop stars are just entertainers in costumes doing flashy ticks for people who don’t realize what the hell is going on, and I think they know it. So for them, sound tracking is perfectly OK.

Now if we move to other genres beside pop, you will find that live music is still live, and that performers will do their best to perform consistently, without having to “Fake” it.

3. South Park just completed season 14 and is going to be receiving a 15th season sometime in 2011 or starting later this year. With many changes that have occurred since the first season (storylines mirroring parodies of current events, different animation, departure of characters such as Chef), has the show been improving or getting worse? Make any comparison.

STVO: God bless Netflix instant for really letting me watch every season of South Park and god bless Matt Stone and Trey Parker for having South Park Studios (www.southparkstudios.com) for allowing people to watch every single episode (with the exception of 200 and 201 due to censorship issues) ever. I think the show has been getting better and better and with the more recent seasons, I just constantly love to watch this show. It’s right up there with Married With Children, The Simpsons seasons 3-10, and while I love Beavis and Butthead, I decided this show is just a lot funnier.

With that said, Chef was a good character (I miss you Isaac Hayes) but the show has done just fine without him after leaving over them making fun of scientology. Pip was a funny character but Butters not only made a great replacement, he has been a much better character and is pretty much the 5^th member of the South Park kids. Just like the Simpsons, while there are plenty of episodes about the main four kids, there are a lot of great episodes about characters such as Timmy & Jimmy (I LOVE JIMMY!), Butters, Randy Marsh (started off as a normal character in season one but gets wackier every season!), Mr./Ms. Garrison, etc. “Scott Tenorman Must Die”, “Fishsticks”, and ”Erection Day” are some of my favorite episodes. Two episodes I didn’t care for were “Best Friends Forever” and “W.T.F.”

Nik: I think the show had made a HUGE jump somewhere near seasons 8 and 9. Animation IMO was better, everything was settled in, and South Park had a name for itself. They probably had enough pull in the industry to start really going at it. Most of my favorite episodes are from season 8 (such as “Playing with Weapons” and “Aweome-O”).

The departure of Chef, wasn’t a big deal for me I don’t think. He never was one of my favorites (although he WAS a staple in the show). I think the introduction of characters has really taken off, and they play off current events beautifully. What makes them so great is that they have the balls to do such bold things. I think the show has continually been getting better. What sets them apart is that there are so many characters that have parts in the episodes. Sure there is the fantastic four we all love, but each member in the community contributes just as largely. From what I know South Park is going to go down in history, one way or another. It was (and I still try to make it) a big part of my television years!

4. With game consoles (Nintendo Wii/Xbox 360) and smart phones (iPhone/Droid) offering downloads of classic games (Sonic the Hedgehog, Super Mario Bros., etc.) and even original new titles (Shadow Complex, World of Goo) there's many great titles available to play not requiring a CD. What are some of your favorite titles and what do you play them on?

STVO: Aside from some Nintendo first-party titles, the Virtual Console/WiiWare is one of my main reasons I still own/play the Wii. I love this feature! I own several games on it but some of my favorites include Super Mario Bros. 3, Splatter House 1 and 2, Punch-Out, Mario Kart 64, and Star Fox 64. World of Goo is fun from what I have played but I also enjoy the Art Style games Cubello and Rotohex. You can’t go wrong with online Dr. Mario either!

Video Demonstration of Rotohex, Very Addictive!

I also own an assortment of titles from PSNetwork and Xbox Live Arcade. Cuboid and Lemmings on PSN are very addictive puzzle games and I’m currently working on Rocket Knight, the sequel to the Sega Genesis game “Rocket Knight Adventures.” On Xbox, I love Shadow Complex. It’s from the creators of Unreal Tournament and Gears of War. Think of it as a 2D Metroid with elements of Metal Gear Solid and Contra. It is very fun and challenging, comparable to many retail games. Some other games I get addicted to on XBLA are Pac-Man Championship Edition, both TMNT arcade games, and Peggle.

Nik: World of Goo is such a great game. I can sit there for hours and just listen to the music and play mindlessly. That’s what I love most about video games, the ability to have the real world melt away. I play a lot of downloaded games on the Wii, but I also have quite a few on the XBOX. I am a fool for old MegaMan games. The music in those games is incredibly entrancing.

I also have spent much time with Punch Out, Sonic the Hedgehog, Paper Boy, and even Golden Axe! What I like about the downloaded games is that they are still simple, just like the old days. NO crazy controls and no highly detailed story lines. Just plug and play. Simply get from point A to point B. Kudos to the gaming industry for bringing back the classics.

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That is all for the week! Once again, a special thanks goes to Nik for being this week's guest! Stay tuned later this week as we will have a full interview with him and the rest of his band, (the band that) Neverwhas in the 3rd ever "Cross X-Amine." In the meantime, check out some of the music of Neverwhas by visiting http://www.neverwhas.com/ Also be sure to tune in this Sunday for the start of "All Gamers Week" as STVO, Matt B. Wild, and Mark Shenefelt will be giving our opinions on what will take place at E3 and throughout the week we will share thoughts in regards to what is announced and revealed. When the show is done, we will share our final thoughts. If you wish to be a guest on CrossTopix, message me at kingstvo@gmail.com

CrossTopix #12: Top 5 32/64 bit games, retirement in WWE, 2D Disney Animation, Hot Music

2010-06-04T00:01:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone, welcome to an all-new CrossTopix. I hope you have been having a good week, I apologize for the long wait (work and other errands among me and the guest this week) but we hope this is well worth the wait. If you had a chance, STVO posted a new column “The Rage with Kage” which you can view by clicking here: bit.ly/9cas05. Simply put, it’s a potpourri discussion of current things going on around Chicago, some video game/movie discussion, and the rip-offs that can be celebrity autographs (at least when they’re $50 or more!) As always, you can always follow CrossTopix on Facebook, Twitter, and Myspace! I love to pass along interesting stories on the web there, let you know about the site’s next updates, and try to create interesting discussion (again, why did Sex and the City 2 cost $100 million to make in this economy?!?!)

Without further ado, this week’s guest….

David Jones: Welcome….me! David Earl Jones, known as that formerly domesticated and recently liberated Cheshire Pleasureman in the style of 3000! The un-nickname-able destroyer of Daves and granter of private auditions! The non-proofread scholar of the moment (if you’ve made it this far) that will remain unorganized and uncensored throughout. A long time dreamer and first time creamer on the smash internet sensation CrossTopix! So let’s get screamin!

…and with that…hit my music…

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NsC7oEjCHAM be

…wow, what an introduction if I do say so myself. That’s pretty much what I’m about in a nutshell, qualified am I?

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Ya sure are Davey. Without further ado, it's time to start the show and as always, lets break the ice with this week's Top 5.

1. Top 5 Video Games from the 32/64-bit Era (aka Sega Saturn, Sony PlayStation 1, or Nintendo 64Titles.)

STVO: Wonderful era that established 3D gaming and many new properties that are utilized today. The list was difficult, but here’s my titles:

1.Legend of Zelda - Ocarina of Time (N64): 2^nd greatest Zelda game (SNES is the best) is one of my favorite and most memorable games ever played. Entertaining story, great action/fight sequences, and characters that are timeless. :D

2. Super Mario 64 (N64): This isn’t the first true or the best 3D action game, but just like Super Mario Bros. with 2D, we wouldn’t have many other games following if it didn’t set a bar. Mario runs, jumps, flies, punches, and rocks 360 degrees in giant worlds which most people wouldn’t imagine before 1996!

3. Resident Evil 2 (PS1/N64): 2^nd best RE of the series (only to RE4.) The game has an incredible opening with a zombie apocalypse with Leon Kennedy running to the gun store desperate to blast away all the undead b**tards!

4. Final Fantasy 7 (PS1): I’m not a big FF fan and I may be a “poser” because of this entry, but Cloud Strife vs. Sephiroth is an amazing battle. While RPGs have always had epic stories, this title utilizes strong characters, blow your mind cinematics (watch that meteor destroy multiple planets!), and let’s not forget that incredible soundtrack!

5. NiGHTs (Sega Saturn): The Saturn may not have been as fun or recognized as N64/PS1, but I feel it deserves a nod and this is the game to do it with. Addictive linear flying title with interesting 2.5-D turns and twists, unique character designs, and catchy music. Yuji Naka of the Sonic games made this one possible.

Runner-Ups: Starfox 64, Blast Corps (N64), Metal Gear Solid (PS1), ShadowMan (N64), WWF No Mercy (N64), Mario Kart 64, Bust-A-Groove 2 (PS1), and PaRappa the Rapper (PS1).

David: Hands down my favorite system ever was the Nintendo 64. This is probably because that was the system out during the formulating years I truly blossomed as a disenfranchised, lazy, Taco Bell eating, “silly cigarette” smoking teenager. I also personally believe that the greatest jump in graphics and game play (most notably the first truly effective utilization of 3D mapping) occurred when this and the PS1 contemporized their predecessors. So by default my list is going to contain mostly 64 games with the notable exception of the list’s champion: one of the greatest stories and experiences on any form of media, which for me demolished any attempt at comparison with another video game. Also STVO, like minds with similar proclivities often find themselves drawn to unifying tastes…so with that said, our lists hardly contrast…

5. Golden Eye 007 (N64) – If you had friends or even if you more into “playing with yourself” it is hard to deny the ultimate awesomeness that was GoldenEye 007 (and Mario Kart 64, see below) on N64. The nervousness of creeping around in multiplayer just to find your buddy and explode, “Ah, I just shot you in your f***ing head!” were surely good times during the indulgent late 90’s. This game offered immense replay value whether in story mode or multiplayer which includes it in this list, not to mention the memories…everyone had a friend who would be that lil midge (midget isn’t kosher so I’ve created a PC alternative) Oddjob and slide around on his knees, making him a zainy & irritating 3 foot tall target. Kids enjoyed high kicks for suuuuure when this game came out.

4. Mystical Ninja Starring Goemon (N64) – Ok, so this game played pretty much like a Japanese Mario 64 except…it was ridiculous...completely. So rather than explain how you summoned a giant robot who was a super Hollywood movie star in his leisure time…I’ll just show you…

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O65MjYN0ZTk

3. Mario Kart 64 (N64) – Everyone has played this game. It was, is, and forever will be loads of fun. What more can I say, it’s just FUN! I’d definitely say it is the most fun multiplayer on the system, yes even over GoldenEye. Wii’s Mario Kart is an excellently executed development in tribute of this which is in my opinion still the greatest Mario Kart. To quote Tim & Eric, “This is just the way I like it. Good enough for a poke right?”

2. Legend of Zelda – Ocarina of Time (N64) – November ‘98 this gem came out during the height of a personally delightful Sprite & Grenadine (or Shirley Temple) addiction. I remember it took me through Christmas break to beat this game and being legit bummed when it was over. This game wonderfully cultivated a development and attachment to the characters as you were kicking ass on that horse, shooting arrows on your way to that eventual (as stupidly easy) showdown with Gannondorf.

1. Final Fantasy VII (PS1) – I’d never played an RPG besides the honkin’ amazing Shining Force 1 & 2 for Sega Genesis. Those games were turn based map movement style Lord Of The Rings x100 type epicness. I’m gonna go out on a limb and state that the rest of the FF games are as colorful a terms as “stupid and not cool” because there’s never going to be a rational comparison to this game, most definitely so by other titles bearing the franchise’s name. So back in the day I went to buy GoldenEye… I picked up this as well because I had heard it was supposed to be a big deal.

Oh holy hell was this game an experience. Of all the aspects: gameplay, scoring, cut scenes (FMVs) that were far and above anything before, I’m going to speak briefly on the story... Pretty much it’s the most beautiful life lesson (through about 80-120 hours of video game play) on how humans are innately parasitic; destroying the planet through their advantages and simple existence but that hope and the determination of individuals will be the only weapon against ultimate destruction. Hopefully if you played it you got that out of it…. Anyways the story is rich, complex, and connecting… one of the best stories I’ve ever heard. Jenova. Sephiroth (which is an incredibly complex character rooted in the Kabala.), Reunion, Redemption, Meteor, Holy…. Hot damn it was great!

So many people love this game it created a 2 hour anime sequel, 7 spinoff games (directly related to this game), and an eventual PS3 or PS4 remake is heading our way.

2. Following Shawn Michaels’s loss to The Undertaker at Wrestlemania 26, Shawn Michaels vowed

that he is finally retiring from pro-wrestling after over 30 years of wrestling. Flash back to

Wrestlemania 24 where Shawn Michaels wrestled Ric Flair in his “retirement” match or even at TNA

Wrestling’s Bound for Glory 2009 PPV where AJ Styles retired “The Icon” Sting. In 2010, both Sting

and Flair have wrestled matches and are considered a big part of the TNA storyline. With all this

information stated, do you think that pro wrestlers should honor their words by saying they’re retiring

or do you think it’s fine because wrestling is considered a fake sport? Also, make a prediction of

when/if Shawn Michaels will return.

STVO: Yes wrestling is a fake sport and it’s silly to watch, but you know what? I don’t care; reality television is as fake as wrestling sometimes but people love it! Back on topic, Shawn Michaels was one of my favorites of all-time and in recent years, he still has put on some entertaining bouts despite being over the age of 40. With that said, it doesn’t matter what age these entertainers are, if they can still put on a great match, I don’t mind them sticking around.

Others like Ric Flair, who put on some crazy matches in the past, probably shouldn’t be in the ring. He had a nice ceremony of “farewell” and he could make a good manager or figurehead, but I wish someone at his age (over 60 years old) would stay out of the wrestling matches at this rate. Same with Hulk Hogan, he’s one of my childhood idols and his “serious” interviews always crack me up, but he has hip problems and other issues. To me it would be like seeing a former police officer that’s now 70-years old get in a wheel chair and add sirens to the back, it’s just wrong. Also, drop the whole “retirement” angle, far too many wrestlers have done it and returned (Mick Foley has done it several times.) Just say “I’m going to take some time off, not sure when I’ll be back” or “this wrestler is banned for x-amount of months.”

Finally, for a Shawn Michaels return, I’m going to predict if they don’t get Bill Goldberg for the WWE Hall of Fame, they’ll induct him as their main star in March of 2011. Now if he feels he needs some extra money and can’t get another line of work he likes, I’ll go ahead and predict SummerSlam 2011 as the latest he’ll return. If I’m being a jerk and he really is done, sorry for being rude, and thanks for the awesome times Shawn!

David: Ahhh wrastlin’! There’s something so funny about pro wrestling: I guess because it began as legitimate shoot grappling competitions in the late 1800’s and evolved into the WWE’s style of entertainment the public has felt betrayed enough constantly mock or label it as fake; seemingly never pausing to say, “Hey, that’s an athletic and insanely talented improv actor playing a character in a highly skilled and dangerous choreographed performance.” The only people affected by the “fake” label are the industry’s consummate largest audience; the children who watch it as entertainment…so hurry up and tell them about Santa Claus as well, you meanies! Unfortunately I believe the public acceptance of organized fighting like the UFC has at crippled any chance wrestling has at regaining the success it achieved in the 80’s & 90’s. BUT…..UFC is pretty damn hilarious & horribly entertaining!

Like many a wrestler’s I have retired… from watching wrestling. The only interest I have had in “sports entertainment” since 2002 was the return of Shawn Michaels from an alleged career ending injury. Hands down HBK Shawn Michaels is The Best There Is, The Best There Was, and The Best There Ever Will Be in the wrestling world. Even so I only would occasionally check in over the past couple years and his recent retirement has found me closing a book as well. He came back better than he was, constantly refused Vince’s insistence and putting the title on him in service of pushing the younger guys, and put on some of the best matches ever, period. His farewell speech seemed legit and more sincere than any retirement I’ve ever heard of in wresting. Even with the stipulation at WrestleMania, I didn’t expect him to lose. I didn’t see the match but I honestly thought they were going to have him beat Taker and still go ahead with his retirement.

Anyways, pro wrestling is its own crazy little world, it’s all those guys know so I say let them go until they say their table is laid and it’s time to carve their meat. I’m sure most of them would prefer to go out in the ring ala Mickey Rourke in The Wrestler. They live to entertain so I say put Flair in as many ladder matches as possible and bring HBK back for another 3 year run in about a year. He deserves it, the Hall (although I think next year is WCW themed), and another run if he wants it. It’d be nice to have a reason to check back in down the line for me as well.

Btw, I’m declaring you & I the first ever CrossTopix Tag Team Champions…until I swerve on you…joking or am I?

3. What is the best 2D animated Disney movie? Are there any stories Disney may not have covered

that you would like to see done in 2D or perhaps there are characters you would like to see make a

return such as Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck, or even Goofy?

STVO: My favorite Disney animated movie was Pinocchio. I grew up watching it as a kid and when I was younger, I wanted to try to be good like him. Also, in response to Nick Smith’s “Movies that Make Me Cry”, Pinocchio was one of them. The whole Pleasure Island part got me real upset where the kids went away from their parents because they thought fun and games were there but end up getting turned into donkeys and get sold away. When the kids cry about missing their parents and The Coachman ignores the kids. That still gets me depressed to this day… Anyway, the movie is beautifully fluid, a wonderful story, and looks better than many other productions to this day! Don’t think I don’t love other Disney movies, this one is just my personal

favorite, while I’m typing this I’m about to watch Lady and the Tramp.

A return of Mickey Mouse and friends, preferably in a 2D animated picture would be very appealing towards me. It would also be great to show children of this generation these characters in action and maybe with scenery more relevant to today’s world. They could also go a darker route and make the upcoming Wii game “Epic Mickey” into a movie. It’s good to see that Disney is looking into a couple of traditionally animated movies with them releasing “The Princess and the Frog” last year and I read something about another Winnie the Pooh movie coming in 2011. One classic novel I think could make into a fun animated movie would be “The Old Man and the Sea.” I could see them going a serious or humorous route with it, but I’d see it most likely.

David: You ask me this Disney question STVO? That’s why this CrossTopix had a special release date of June 3^rd (STVO: Well actually, June 4^th due to me having to go to work early and not getting out until later, whoops!) instead of the 2^nd. This question had to sizzle…”let it sizzle” – Michael Jackson, who btw is returning to Disney World this month in the form of Captain Eo! I know kids may read your show but F*** YEAH on that business!

I’m thrilled that Disney has reopened its traditional animation studios and resumed what they do best…making entertaining, money making, bash your brains in with their perfectly sound tracked 2-D movies. They’re too hit/miss with Pixar but fortunately have been more hit recently. Relating to Nick Smith’s article “Movies That Make Me Cry”; Big Fish, The Monster Squad, and Dumbo are 3 qualifying answers for me. So Dumbo is definitely not my favorite 2-D Disney movie of all time. It was just too sad from the get go with his mom locked up and those hilarious & vulgarly stereotyped crows couldn’t even cheer me up by the end.

So favorite all time… hmm. Well I guess I’ll start by saying the “best” and “favorite” are two different worlds…the best would probably have to be The Lion King or Aladdin in terms of total package. Favorite, there’s so many….but ultimately The Sword in the Stone with those nut jobs Merlin, Archimedes, and Madame Mim has to be my favorite. It keeps entertained throughout with some of the most wacky and gibberish language songs in Disney’s history, “Higgitus Figgitus” anyone? Every time Merlin transmorphs Wart into a different animal = a different life lesson is learned, making it a morale and championship movie. This decision was closely tailed by Robin Hood, The Many Adventures of Winnie The Pooh, Alice In Wonderland (forget the new one!), The Little Mermaid, and even The Emperor’s New Groove (which is highly underrated)!

I’d like to see them get their hands on Roald Dahl’s “George’s Marvelous Medicine”, really would've liked to see what they could've done with The BFG, or just spend their money on tomorrow’s dreamers and get some original works in development. I just returned from Disney World trip #11 and let me just “blanketedly” say, I still believe in their (corporate and emotional) magic.

4. What is hot in the current music scene?

STVO: In my head it’s always going to be the 1970s through 1990s, look down here and see what I mean…

Okay, lame joke aside, this is kind of revisiting a question presented in the CrossTopix pilot, but I don’t mind. Not a whole lot has changed for me; I’m still kind of out of the zone but am always up for recommendations. Some artists I do enjoy are Kevin Rudolph (I Made It is an entertaining song), Rihanna is decent (and hot), Katy Perry has some decent songs (and is hot too.) Next week’s guest (more info after the discussion) are great artists as well. I don’t mean to Peter out of this question, but I’ll just leave it at that and anyone reading who is in the current music scene, I would like for you to either e-mail me or post some artists/bands you currently like on the boards. Dave knows his music, I’ll read his as well so here we go:

David: Hot in music? So much right now! America is currently experiencing an electrifying of all subgenres but rather than speak on the regressed indie bands that attempt to provide credibility to their listeners or the repetitive and no longer relevant hip hop sounds that provide sought and unattained attention; I am going to talk about a hot little storm that is brewing over the Baltic Sea in Europe. As a self described and defined Celebrationist, I have found that the best music hits me in the face with constant handfuls of confetti….and the Baltic Sea is where the best electropop and dance music is happening.

Sweden offers up the heralded Juvelen, Robyn, The Sounds, BWO, and the insatiable Gunther creating the most insanely danceable and downright sexy grooves since the early 90’s house explosion.

Denmark (big rep for the homeland!) has Alphabeat updating 80’s and now more recently 90’s dance sensibilities into their own brand of “you’ll be cool if you listen to us”.

If you’ve rode the Maelstrom in Epcot you know “Nohrvay hast alvays looked to the sea” So I now look to Norway for the multi award winning duo known as Royksopp as the future of dance music. Annie is also a cute and fun and cute export from this fine peninsula.

The Netherlands also contribute Tiesto and Ferry Corsten as the top of the DJ/Trance world.

Most of the artists compete in the Eurovision song contest, which if you aren’t familiar…you’re far too Americanized with your tastes. But I’m not ragging on our own products….The Scissor Sisters are about to release an album that will hands down be the greatest record of the year…Count on it! Same thing with Neon Neon, they released a concept album about the life of John DeLorean (who was a beautiful human being) that is just simply “too touched for rubs”.

Music reflects the listener…and it really is a good time to be looking for upbeat, meaningful, and euphoric music! All the above can be found on YouTube….I highly recommend checking them out…right after commenting on this CrossTopix!

David: That’s it from me! Thanks a bunch to STVO and the CrossTopix Crew, I look forward to defending out Tag Team Championship and hopefully I’m back in a stronger capacity. As far as self promotion…a couple friends are starting a punk/dance hybrid that we’re calling Crystal Children…because we love them and they should be cherished. So hopefully I’ll be back to share the results of that and discuss future TOPIX in a CROSS fashion! Until then…. Lay your table before you carve your meat! (Patrick Wolf paraphrase)

STVO: In the words of Jim Ross, “BAH GAWD KING!!!! TAG-TEAM CHAMPIONS!!!!” I will cherish this title and defend it! I’m coming for you Cena!!!

Anyway, that’s it for this week, special thanks to an enthusiastic and energetic guest Dave! I encourage you once again to visit Facebook, Twitter, and MySpace for your CrossTopix updates and other interesting tidbits around the web. As always, I’m all-ears for suggestions on how to make CrossTopix an even better site so please leave some comments on here or e-mail me at kingstvo@gmail.com!

Next week we have two great treats: first one is CrossTopix #13 (a lucky number!) featuring Nik Rubicz, guitarist for (the band that) NEVERWHAS who will be discussing music, South Park, and downloadable video games. The second treat will be that I am going to conduct an interview with Nik and the rest of the band! They’re great performers, be sure to give them a look!

Have a great weekend everyone!

BTW All-Gamers Week (CrossTopix E3 Discussion/Coverage) June 13-June 19!

UFC Image Courtesy of: Mozey.Wordpress.Com

Epic Mickey Art by: http://gregthecatofgordawn.deviantart.com/

The Rage With Kage - By STVO Kage

2010-06-02T23:56:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone, just thought I’d debut a new column to hold over everyone before the next CrossTopix. I’ve been considering on doing my own mini-column for CrossTopix for some time to do some of my own ranting. I might do at least one a month. Also, I’ll likely do one in case there are guest cancellations or no editions of CrossTopix for the week. To best describe this, I will be talking about a couple different things in various types of media. If you haven’t heard it before, it’s NEWS TO YOU! Consider this, OpinioNews (or just another rant.)

Around Chicago

• Not a lot going on for me now around my beloved town, but aside from a few rainy days/moments, I love the recent weather! It’s very nice to go by the beach on Lake Shore Drive for a nice run or chill at the beach with lots of cute ladies, blasting my iPod to my beloved 80s/90s music, and catching up on some fine literature (well Marvel/DC Comics mostly for me.)

• I’m missing Anime Central dearly, but I’m in big excitement for Wizard World (aka Chicago Comic Con.) It’s taking place August 19th-22nd. Lots of celebrities and pro wrestlers will be there signing autographs (more on my opinion on some of this later), my friends Little Brass Bird (www.littlebrassbird.com) will have a booth, and Disco Stu, er, Disco STVO will be there. :D More details about the event are here. http://www.wizardworld.com/home-ch.html

• Taste of Chicago is coming soon, woo-hoo!

Video Games

• Just received my copies of Super Mario Galaxy 2 and Alan Wake, both are very fun! IGN gave Mario Galaxy 10 out of 10!!! I haven’t gotten that far in the game yet, so it is very early for me to determine whether I agree or not with it. So far it’s very similar to the original Galaxy (which isn’t a bad thing) just they added a little fun with the return of Yoshi!! I’m liking the controls for him a lot so far, hopefully this game will continue to rock. Alan Wake has been REAL fun! It’s a third person action game from Remedy, the people who brought you Max Payne. It’s very unique because it is narrated like it’s a book. So far it has an interesting story and things should get pretty crazy later on.

• So it looks like Sega has another Sonic the Hedgehog title in the works called “Sonic Colours (or Sonic Colors.)” The plot currently is about Sonic and Tails finding a weird alien race of different colors that can help Sonic move faster in the game. People are speculating that this may be Sega’s “Super Sonic Galaxy.” That has been a problem with some of the more recent Sonic titles: Shadow the Hedgehog (Xbox/PS2/Cube) was trying to be like Grand Theft Auto, Sonic the Hedgehog ’06 (PS3/X360) had a Final Fantasy X-XII vibe (at least with cinema graphics), and Sonic Unleashed’s Were-hog gameplay reminded me of God of War. Personally, I could be just a little judgmental but Sega hasn’t been as solid with their delivery of Sonic titles (barring portable titles) since Sonic Adventure 2 (and I have complaints about that game.) Maybe it will surprise me, who knows. I just hope that Sonic the Hedgehog 4 will end up delivering! In the meantime, Sonic Colors’s trailer, watch and comment: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pcD5K_mqOLM&feature=fvst

• E3 is coming up and in honor of that tradition; CrossTopix will be celebrating the event for that week! That’s right, stay tuned for All-Gamers Week on June 13-June 19! I’m excited! So far Matt B. Wild of Explicit Gamer.com and good friend/hardcore Xbox 360/live gamer Mark S. will be doing multiple discussions for this event. Sorry fellow readers, no movies/TV/music discussion on that week, this week belongs to those who love their game consoles (and any PC-related announcements that might occur, though I’m personally a console man.) Stay tuned for more details!

Movies

• Last week I saw Shrek 4 in 3D with friends CharlieCat, Matt McCollum, and Dexter (a future guest on CrossTopix.) I wasn’t expecting too much but I was very pleased with what I saw, much better than 3 and just as good as the first two! For those of you parents reading, plenty of well-hidden adult humor is in the movie.

• I know I’m one of the only few interested in it, but I still want to see Prince of Persia. Those interested in it may want to see it soon though, last weekend it only score $30 Million of its $200 Million budget. It’s getting some decent reviews out there and has a 6.9/10 average on IMDB, which is decent. If I do see it, maybe I’ll post a full review on the site…

• So why did Sex and the City 2 cost $100,000,000 to make? The first movie cost $65 million and I understand the actresses are getting some very nice pay days to be in the sequel of the successful first movie and the ridiculously successful series, but $100 mil?!?! I know they’re wearing expensive outfits in the movie, but did they buy extra ones and just kept them and didn’t wear in the movie?

• Some concept art for the Captain America movie has been disclosed: http://www.411mania.com/movies/news/140914/%5BMovies%5D-Concept-Art-For-Captain-Americas-Suit.htm In my opinion, he looks alright, the belt and suspenders look a little weird though. Never been a huge fan, but if the trailers look decent, perhaps I’ll see it.

Random

• Okay, how many of you have been to a convention? Okay, now how many of you have gotten an autograph from a celebrity you liked? I remember at Wizard World when I first went and spent around $55 for the weekend pass then got told by the first person I met “I’d love to give you an autograph…. $25.” I was stunned! So $55 for this con, $15+ for 1-day parking, and you have to pay to meet a celebrity?!?! Well I warmed up after awhile met a few celebs I’ve wanted to meet for awhile: George Lowe aka the voice of Space Ghost on Coast to Coast for $10 and Mick Foley for $25. The greatest people there were Jamie Maddrocks and Monoxide Child of Twiztid, they charged… $0. They were kind, willing to talk to the fans, sign anything given to them, offered small pictures for you to get signed, and said some of the truest words: “We charge nothing and that’s how it should be for events like this!” I could not agree more guys! Sure it is one thing they make you buy a book or at least bring your own memorabilia of them for them to sign or proceeds go to charity. I don’t mean to trash the next few celebrities as I respect their works but I feel that honestly this is a bit ridiculous: William Shatner charges $75, Patrick Stewart charges $60, and Mark Hamill… $100!!! If you paid for an autograph for each of them at one show, you could have bought a Nintendo Wii, paid a cable bill, take multiple friends/family out to dinner, etc. On top of that, Wizard World now charges for a photo WITH YOUR OWN CAMERA with the celebrity in addition to autograph. Because of that, I only get photos now because I think a picture represents me meeting someone more than an autograph. But picture if you wanted both a picture and autograph from someone like Mark Hamill, you will spend $200! Again, I don’t mean to slam the celebrities nor the event, but I would like some explanation why some people would charge so much!

• Speaking of things not likely worth the price, ever heard of Tweetfan.com? Take a look. http://tweetafan.com/vips Ever wanted to follow the tweets of Shelley Martinez, Joey Kovar, or Blair Thomas? $1/month please and… who are these people? Of the list I posted, I only know Shelly Martinez because she played Ariel in WWE’s ECW. Look, I understand they’re all doing it for charity which is very nice and it is only $1/month, but to follow something like Tweets? That’s kind of like McDonalds deciding to let you have one of those paper place mats on the serving tray if you donate $1 to them or much worse… me telling you all that you can read this article for $1/month! Haha.

Well that’s it for my column, hope you guys find it somewhat interesting. Send any suggestions on what I can do to improve it. CrossTopix should debut with a new column soon featuring Dave Jones. Also, next week, look for an all-new Cross X-amine featuring an interview with local band (the band that) NEVERWHAS and a new CrossTopix featuring NEVERWHAS member, Nik Rubicz!

CrossTopix #11 Batman Villains for the New Movie, The Best Joker, Metroid: The Other M, Anime

2010-05-26T08:02:00.000-07:00

Welcome back to CrossTopix! It was a one week hiatus but we're back! Like my review stated, I had a great time at Anime Central. I hope you enjoyed last week's article by Nick Smith and I, we hope to do at least one like that each month and perhaps another edition of The Verdict. Again, any and all feedback towards the site should be posted in the comments section, I want to hear! If you're shy, get in contact with me via e-mail at kingstvo@gmail.com. Also, CrossTopix is on three social networks: Facebook, Twitter, and Myspace. Pick one and get the latest feed on updates as well as other news!

This week there are two guests, two artists from the DeviantART scene. One is a friend that I made through Anime Central a little over 6 years ago the other is a good friend of hers. Introducing Jasmine and Red....

Jasmine: Good morning, and in case I don't see ya, good afternoon, good evening, and good night!" (sorry, I love The Truman Show). 'Ello, I'm Jazz and I will be hosting this edition of CrossTopix--I mean I'll be one of the guests on CrossTopix this week (insert laugh track here). In all seriousness, I want to first thank STVO for his willingness and patience to have me on the site. I think it's really great to have a site out there that cares about the quality of today's pop culture and etc, but also maintains the individual's opinion as something to be treasured. As for myself, I'm a freelance artist and my portfolio can be found at [link] My more personal website is [link] where you can find some of my newer work, sketches, plus convention photos. If you'd like to commission me for a canvas painting - email me at Jazzcatnya@aim.com for details on pricing or any other questions. You can also visit this page for regular commission information - [link] I'm also willing to do Art tutoring for people in my area. Email me for more details! I do Abstract, realistic, portraits, character design, and illustration work. I work in a number of media including but not limited to Pencil, pen and ink, photoshop, charcoal, acrylics, and watercolors. Please check my stuff out and feel free to ask questions!

Red: Top O' the morning to ya, Laddies and Lasses! Or Evening. Or Midnight. My name is Red, which is short for The Red Dahlia. It's a nickname I gave myself after I wrote a series of emotionally inspiring poems with that name, and yes it's inspired partly by The Black Dahlia. Anywho, I'm here as one of the guests for CrossTopix. For some reason, my opinion is desired and that being the case, I will unleash it upon you all like a flood, earthquake...or plague. I will take this time to thank STVO for inviting me for I owe him my thanks and appreciation. Since that is out of the way, I will tell you a bit about myself. I am a writer, artist, and generally a creative person who usually has good ideas. Lately all I do is write poems and stories, but I do have some other kinds of art. I just need to get myself back to drawing again...eventually. My DeviantArt website is: [link] Oh, and for those of you wondering, bbeb are the initials for: bootiful b*****d evil bob. Why? Seemed like a good idea at the time. I get called crazy pretty much every day and I suppose I'm starting to believe it. But yes, if need be, you can contact my DA or by email: god_of_insanity@hotmail.com. I don't bite much...when I'm forced to wear a mask. To quote Ace Ventura, "“Oh, All righty then!" Onto the questions!

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Thanks you two, now we open with our Top 5!

1.) Top 5 Villains You Want to See in Batman 3:

STVO:

Before I start the list, I want to say while I LOVE the Dark Knight, I HATE that Two-Face died in it. WHY?!?!?! He was an awesome villain in the comic and animated series, will likely be an awesome villain in the next Arkham Asylum video games and Aaron Eckhart played his role very well. *sigh* Such a waste…

1. Black Mask: This is something that they could have used Two Face for but Black Mask will do just fine and in fact is perfect for the third movie. If they do his background story very closely to the comics it could push for an R-rating. The man murdered his own parents…

2. Hush: This character could go well with the death of Rachel in The Dark Knight. Here is another childhood friend of Bruce Wayne who grows to become an “anti-Barman.” Heck, if the Scarecrow makes a third appearance, he can be an influence on the creation of Hush.

3. Harley Quinn: I don’t know about being the only villain in the movie, but she would provide great support as her obsession with the Joker would create a great story mechanic for her trying to hunt down and kill Batman.

4. Poison Ivy: I’m not big into supernatural villains, but I think a more realistic vision of her could be wonderful (and sexy.) She can keep her plant fascination but her character will be more fascinated with poisoning people she wants dead by putting toxins in air ducts at big events and of course threatened to pollute the city with them creating one giant mass suicide.

5. Bane: I love his story. He’s the man that takes Bruce Wayne out and calls for a replacement. Why is he so low on the list? Personally, I feel this should happen in the 4^th movie. Let’s have Batman duke it out with one of my top 4 villains (or ones not on my list.) Whatever they do, just no Clayface, no Man-Bat, no Egghead, but more importantly, NO ROBIN OR BATGIRL!

Jasmine: Well this is a tough call for me since 2 of my favorite villains have already been covered (The Joker and Two-Face), but here goes!

From Most to Least wanted:

- Harley Quinn - She's such a card, and was always one of my favorite humorous, yet deadly villians next to Joker. Though I'm not sure how they would work her in this one, I thought her background of being the Joker's psychiatrist-turned-psychotic girlfriend was rather clever, and who could resist her hyena pets?
- Killer Croc - Come on - we need a creepy mutant villain in there somewhere.
- Catwoman - Classic, Batman needs a new love interest.
- Poison Ivy - Harley needs a best friend.
- Bane - Depending on how long the story will be going on, I think that he probably should be included in the storyline for the movies at some point.

Red: I am still sad that Heath Ledger is dead and that Two-Face is also dead. They were both great villains and some of my favorite. It's such a shame to have them gone. IF they cast another person as The Joker, the new guy will have some heavy shoes to fill.

1.) Catwoman: In The Dark Knight, they killed off Bruce's love interest and child-hood friend, Rachel Dawes. As you all know, all superhero movies have to have some girl or love interest involved or it's not complete. I think Catwoman aka Selena Kyle would be great for Batman 3. She's not a good or a bad guy, per se but she would pose as a love interest and villain at the same time. In Batman: The Animated Series and the Batman DC comics, it is obvious that Batman has feelings for her and is troubled by her criminal ways. There is conflict between the two and would take care of the love problem. It seems Nolan is going for the true Batman theme, so I believe Catwoman would be a good approach.

2.) Penguin: Gotta love The Penguin aka Oswald Chesterfield Cobblepot. He's all sophisticated and classy. Out of all the Batman villains, he seems to be one of the sanest ones. Of course, that doesn't mean he's sane. Anywho, I would like to see him in Batman 3 partly because I would like to see him portrayed as he is in the comics/animated series. Even though it was amusing in itself, Tim Burton kind of took Penguin's image and distorted the Penguin's character. I believe Nolan would be able to darken The Penguin considerably more and it would be interesting to see what he comes up with.

3.) Poison Ivy: I suppose I just like the red hair and the inhuman way Poison Ivy aka Pamela Isley presents herself. She's not really a big favorite, but I think she would make a good villain candidate for the 3rd movie. What's interesting about her is that she is a plant nut and believes plants should be treated better. She's like the plant version of PETA. So in all honestly, she is an insane woman who believes what she is doing is right, that her cause is a just one. Yeah, let’s kill all the people and animals because the plants are obviously threatened. I bet she'd love the movie The Happening. Therefore, I think she should also be in Batman 3. She'd make for an interesting twist.

4.) The Riddler: He is another oddball that is quite eccentric, yet very intelligent. He is a mastermind who calls himself The Riddler and strikingly enough, his real name is Edward Nigma. His own real name is a riddle in itself, it would appear. He enjoys challenging Batman with all sorts of complicated riddles. I think he would be good for Batman 3 because while the Joker challenges Batman's beliefs and sanity, the Riddler challenges Batman's intelligence and wit.

5.) Harley Quinn: She is someone I like and dislike at times because her voice and personality can be a bit irritating, yet it's hard not to like her. Harley Quinn aka Harleen Quinnzel, is a rather colorful, deluded character who believes herself to be in love with The Joker. I would like to see her in Batman 3, but the problem is she is a side villain and if there is no Joker in the movie, it would be pointless to have her involved. That is why I am hesitant to include her as one of the candidates. But still, if they do find someone good enough to play the Joker, then I am sure they can include her into the story, too

2. In Batman there have been multiple actors and media portraying his arch-rival: The Joker. In the 1989 Batman film, Jack Nicholson played the role while in the 2008 movie “The Dark Knight” it was Heath Ledger. For some time in the 1990s, Mark Hamill did the voice of Joker for Batman: The Animated series and would later reprise that role for the 2009 video game: Bataman Arkham Asylum. What has been your favorite representation of The Joker?

STVO: There were so many great Jokers (yes including Caesar Romano’s goofy Joker from the 1960s show.) The only one I disliked was the Joker from the animated series “The Batman” played by Kevin Michael Richardson (aka the voice of Cleveland Brown Jr. and The Glorft Commander on Megas XLR.) If you look to the left, you will see why I dislike this Joker, it looks like a henchman not The Joker!! Speaking of animated programming, the voice for The Joker stands out the most to me is done by none other than Mark Hamill! His goofy cartoonish voice and his demonic laugh are iconic! The way he’s portrayed on the animated series perfectly exemplifies the classic rivalry of Batman vs. The Joker as both voice actors work together with such great chemistry.

My favorite live action one has to be Heath Ledger’s portrayal in the Dark Knight although Jack Nicholson also did an excellent job in the 1989 Batman. Ledger portrays a unique version of Joker as he has a twisted personality and an amazing look that has created many new visions of The Joker. The 1989 Joker is intriguing as he portrays a classic Joker well complete with wacky contraptions made to kill the citizens of Gotham and has the “world is my playground” like attitude.

Jasmine: I have to say that my favorite Joker by far was Heath Ledger in The Dark Knight and it's not because of the whole 'actor passed away, let's show some respect' thing. I truly believe that he brought something new to the role as an actor, and the writers involved are definitely to be commended here. When you watch that film, it's almost like The Joker is the main character, and not Batman. This whole aspect of chaos and how things are both planned and unplanned was very interesting to me. Watch his specific mannerisms, the way that the story of how he got his scars changed every time, not to mention the fact that he could actually be considered SCARY, which in just about every other Batman that I've ever watched or seen there was never anything to be scared of when it came to the Joker, just a bunch of jokes, laughing gas, and parlor tricks.

Red: Heath Ledger's Joker was quite impressive and I will always find him amusing, but I believe that the best Joker ever created was Mark Hamill's Joker in Batman: The Animated Series. If you have ever watched the series, which is based off the comics, you will get the distinct impression that Christopher Nolan wrote and directed his movies after the comic/animated series. Not only is Hamill's Joker chaotic and murderous, he is a hilarious riot. The Animated Series didn't show too much blood, gore, or anything R-Rated, so of course Hamill's Joker wasn't portrayed as cruel as Ledger's. In truth, if you watch The Animated Series, it’s as clear as day that The Joker embodies the opposite of Batman: Chaos, Crime, and Insanity. I see a lot of Hamill's Joker in Ledger's Joker. I think that's one of the reasons why I enjoyed Ledger's Joker so much. Ledger's Joker is basically the Rated R version of Hamill's Joker. While I love both Jokers, I will claim that Hamill's Joker is still the best Joker. "But hey, that's the downside of comedy; you're always taking shots from people who don't get the joke. Like my dad or Batman."-The Joker

3. Metroid: The Other M is scheduled for this summer to come out on Nintendo Wii. Many interesting aspects are going to be in this game: Team Ninja (the makers of Ninja Gaiden 1 and 2 for Xbox/Xbox 360) are making the game, it will be the first Metroid title that is a third-person shooter as opposed to first-person controls of Metroid Prime, and you will be controlling Samus with the D-Pad instead of a control stick. It has classic 2D side scrolling action elements and even a first person mode yet doesn't utilize the nunchuck? Will this game be good? Check out the trailer here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3EftgHQGHQI

STVO: For most part, I enjoy when Nintendo collaborates with other companies on their franchises. I.e. Nintendo/Capcom making Zelda: Oracle series for Gameboy Color and Nintendo/Sega making F-Zero GX for the Gamecube, I had a blast with those titles. Metroid games are very difficult for me as the only one I have ever completed was Metroid Prime 1 on Gamecube. The Prime series is a great and challenging series but I feel it is time that Retro Studios starts working on a title(s) that aren’t connected to Metroid and I feel it will be great that Team Ninja will take their hands on this title as they are known for their challenging difficulty.

I like the change for this title as it will have classic side-scrolling elements and will have a “Crash Bandicoot/Jumping Flash” element to the game by making it isometric 3D exploration and battling. I’d rather have a joystick, but I trust Team Ninja with their decision on how to use the Wii remote. As I have stated many times before, most of my favorite Wii games end up using the motion controls to a minimum or are void of them. With that said, the art-style and the gameplay look fantastic, I can’t wait to give it a try.

Jasmine: I have played a couple of the Metroid games, and I have to say, I'm impressed that they're gutsy enough to change the type of controls that are used, as well as the perspective you'll be playing at, especially if you go by the saying "if it's not broke, then don't fix it?" Maybe that's what they were going for? Fresh play? If that's the case, then I'm all for it. I'll admit that I get bored easily, and most of us have a touch of ADHD to boot, so I welcome changes. I would expect some of the same types of gameplay from this new Metroid as in Ninja Gaiden, and I can't complain about that aspect either. I am slightly confused as to why they aren't utilizing all of the Nintendo Wii's capabilities, which might be considered one of the downfalls, but then again, don't we all miss the classic d-pad gameplay? At least a little? All in all, I'd definitely give it a chance.

Red: To be honest, I'm not much of a gamer, although I do have some games and I don't believe I've ever played any Metroid games. But I am all for change and if it makes more people interested and is more challenging this way, then I'm all for it.

4. Two weeks ago, the Anime Central convention took place in Rosemont, IL. An event that has been around for over 10 years. As the years progress, there are more costumes representing more icons from other media besides Japanese animation including American cartoons, movies, video games such as Halo, etc. Have you ever been into the Anime scene and what do you think of it right now? Are there any newer titles that interest you or are you shying away?

STVO: I posted a review of Anime Central last week; if you haven’t read it please do right here (http://bit.ly/9c32uN). Done reading? Great! I wasn’t into anime until the end of middle school as a good friend (Rhodrick of Little Brass Bird) told me more about it. I was a 14-year old geek who got his fill at first enjoying Pokemon on Kids WB and playing the GameBoy games. Thankfully I moved on to Dragon Ball Z on Toonami and then far better titles such as the movies: Ninja Scroll, Akira, and Perfect Blue and series such as Cowboy Bebop, Rurouni Kenshin, Yu Yu Hakusho, Big O, and Outlaw Star.

It’s 2010 now I’m going to be 27 in a few months, but I still like anime. I’m not into it as much as I used to be but I do enjoy it very much. Anime Central is a great place to find out more about the current scene by interacting with people and asking them what they’re watching. Also the 24-hour rooms are giving me inspiration to check out series through Netflix (Nerima Daikon Bros., Devil May Cry, Hell Girl, etc.) Before I got Netflix, my only real access to anime was watching whatever Adult Swim played (got weak later on with disappointments like Witch Hunter Robin and Wolf’s Rain) or buying the anime I wanted to check out ($30 for 4 episodes?!?! $100 for 13 episode boxsets?!?!?!) I don’t follow the trends as much as I did back then but love to hear recommendations on newer shows or go back to older shows I may have missed. I love all animation be it American or Japanese.

Jasmine: The reason why all of these other types of animated and live action fandoms appear at Anime Central and other conventions is for this simple reason- They have no other specific convention to go. There is no widespread Johnny Depp or Tim Burton conventions to speak of, for instance. There are other reasons, too. One being that you stick out more at an Anime convention if you're wearing some other random costume. I mean look at it this way, it's a way for attention whores to seek more attention. It's also a place for people to advertise and show their original characters off. I welcome this because not only does it bring fandoms together, but it also brings friends together, so regardless of whether you're still up to date on the anime scene or into some other fandom, or just 'getting too old for this sort of thing' you can't argue with a weekend out with friends and possibly meeting new ones.

Am I personally still interested in anime? You bet I am. Am I choosier as to the specific anime or genre that I watch? Yes, I've fine tuned it a bit, and I watch a great deal less. A couple of the newer titles that I've checked out and enjoyed are Detroit Metal City (love anime that poke fun at things) and of course the famous Death Note. I think the animation is becoming more advanced and they're coming up with even more outrageous titles and genres, but pretty much I believe the anime industry has infiltrated into our culture and everyday life. So I don't see it going away, but at the same time, I also don't see it coming out with anything spectacular as of late. I would hope to think that there will be something new that stands out from all the Shounen (anime aimed for young boys) they have been translating, but the one I've been most impressed with recently has been Death Note - and that's been out for a few years now. You need to also be aware that these titles are coming from Japan, and without actually living there, it's a bit hard to tell what's actually coming out when because we only usually see what American representatives choose to translate. Who knows, perhaps I'll come out with something new and innovative? Here's to hoping that someone does.

In addition, you see, because of my attachment to anime as an art, and being an artist, anime will always be a part of my world. I have even passed down some of the age appropriate anime paraphernalia to my four-year-old daughter, who has seen and enjoyed Pokemon, Miyazaki films, and watched an occasional episode of Angelic Layer (of CLAMP fame). The fantastic part of all of this is: It's Art! It's entertainment! It's Part of Popular Culture and History! It encourages people to learn about another place, and other times, and opens your imagination! And you know what? I wouldn't have it any other way.

Red: I have been into the anime scene since pretty much 6th grade, I think. I used to be more obsessed with it because it was different and amusing, but now it has dulled with time. A lot of the anime today are generic and boring. The same can be said for American cartoons and movies. Now the reason anime doesn't make me gaga that much anymore is because school girls with huge eyes and wearing short skirts, robots, and samurai tend to get increasingly boring and overdone. I am very picky when it comes to anime/manga and will only watch/read it if it’s different and interests me.

My first anime was Sailor Moon and I enjoyed it despite the flashy femininity. Not too long after Sailor Moon aired, Dragon Ball Z came into the picture and I fell in love with it. It was different than anything I had ever seen and it was hilarious. I still believe this classic is one of the most original and best anime ever created. One of the anime I started liking was InuYasha but as time went on, the show disappointed me because instead of being a feudal fairy tale, it turned into a nonsensical love/lust triangle that's no better than Twilight. Of course, I still hold love for Naraku and Sesshoumaru in spite of the many flaws in that show. One anime that I came to love and still enjoy is Blood+. It was refreshingly different and all the characters...looked different. A lot of times in anime the characters all have the same eyes, face shape, and body build. So essentially a lot of anime basically draw the same character over and over again and just change the hair. Blood+ was not like that, though. Another anime I still love is called Vampire Hunter D: Bloodlust. The art is beautiful and so is the story. The character of D was captured almost perfectly. The reason I can say this is because I have read almost all the VHD novels. In fact, I prefer the animated movie's story to that of the novel's, and yes, the novel and anime differ in several ways.

I have also noticed that I tend to favor anime that have strong, assertive females. Some examples: Blood+ (Saya), Blood: The Last Vampire(Saya),Gokusen (Kumiko Yamaguchi), Moribito: Spirit of the Guardian (Balsa), Ergo Proxy (Re-l Mayer) and I'm sure there's others out there. I have noticed in a lot of anime that most females are portrayed as goody-goody-I'm-so-innocent-and-submissive which actually grinds my gears. I guess I like some diversity and not the same overrated sludge that some people create. In truth of all truths, I still like and enjoy anime, but it doesn't hold the same appeal to me that it once did.

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That is it for this week's CrossTopix! Thanks again to both Jasmine and Red for coming by, great answers by everyone! Return with us next Wednesday as the guest will be aspiring musician David Jones. We will be discussing the best video games from the N64/PlayStation 1 era, 2D animated Disney movies, and more! In the mean time, follow CrossTopix on Twitter, MySpace, or Facebook and leave comments on this week's edition in the comment section! Have a great week!

MOVIES THAT MAKE ME CRY By Nick Smith: UNCENSORED

2010-05-21T00:02:00.000-07:00

Warning: Article may contain strong language, if you're offended by the "f-word" or other swears, you may want to skip.

Guys, in general, have a hard time crying. Or at least we have a hard time admitting that we cry. It’s tough. Crying takes our edge off. It’s vulnerability. But guys do cry. I cry. And nothing makes me cry more than movies.

I’m sorry... I have to admit it. There are always a few choice movies that no matter how many times I watch... I let my salty emotions get the better of my eyes.

Follow me on the magical journey of MOVIES THAT MAKE ME CRY...

(In no particular order)

1. Finding Nemo

Fuck yourself. It’s sad. I always cry at the end when we all think Nemo is dead at the bottom of the ocean after saving the school of fish from the fishing net...

2. The NeverEnding Story

Why couldn’t that damn horse not think about the sadness? Stupid Swamp...

3. Crash

Man.... When was I NOT crying? Matt Dillon’s Heroics, Don Cheadle getting scolded by his Mother, who blames him for not finding his brother... I THOUGHT THE LITTLE GIRL GOT SHOT!!!

4. Click

Anybody that doesn’t admit they cry in this movie either lacks emotion or a soul.

“Will you still love me in the morning?”

“Forever and Ever, babe.”

5. The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King

Aside from Elijah Wood’s “Gay Making” Beautiful Blue Eyes.... I always get moistly-eyed when

Gimili the Dwarf and Legolas’ bickering subsides to culminate in their treasured friendship at the Black Gate. The Elf wanted to die side by side with a friend... and the dwarf was happy to oblige.

6. The Shawshank Redemption

Brooks was Here. So was Red.

7. American Beauty

I remember seeing this when I was young... and I have always wished that heaven would be similar

to the one that Kevin Spacey describes at the end of the movie.

8. Big Fish

This is at least one movie on my list where I witnessed three OTHER men of the same age cry

ing at the same time. And then we hugged.

9. Cast Away

Never thought I would cry over a man losing a volleyball. That just sounds wrong.

10. Philadelphia

Tom Hanks makes me fucking cry. If you haven’t seen this (most people haven’t)... this is a great

first date movie. I’m kidding.

11. Ghosts of Mississippi

Another movie you probably have never seen. But if you are on that first date... tell her or him that you’ve seen this movie and that you cry every time.... INSTANT STYLE POINTS.

12. The Butterfly Effect

First a volleyball made me cry.... and then Kelso?

13. Titanic

No... Leonardo Dicaprio doesn’t make me cry. That old dumb bitch throwing a quarter of a billion dollars into the sea makes me cry. And the noise she makes. It’s like a 110 year old orgasm. “Ahhh”

14. Charlotte's Web

I’m not talking about the bullshit remake. I’m talking about the movie we all grew up on. You didn’t cry? Maybe you don’t remember then...

Wilbur: Are you writers?

Charlotte's daughters: No, but we will be when we grow up.

Wilbur: Then write this in your webs, when you learn: This hallowed doorway was once the home of Charlotte. She was brilliant, beautiful, and loyal to the end. Her memory will be treasured forever.

Charlotte's daughters: Ooh, that would take us a lifetime.

Wilbur: A lifetime. That's what we have.

Brilliant.

15. Armageddon

Oh you didn’t cry? Bullshit. Let me know the next time you make a promise to your daughter to return home... but break that promise to save the world from an asteroid the size of Texas... and you don’t cry.

16. 2012

Let me get this straight... I’m the only person in the country that cried when this ship literally got its ass handed to itself... with those two old guys on it? But the guy didn’t get to talk to his son!

OK, so that ship didn’t get you wet? How about the USS KENNEDY that rips Danny Glover a new asshole? No? Alright.

17. Edward Scissorhands

I think we’ve all felt like Edward at some point in our lives. Minus the scissors.

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I hope that you find the courage to let your guard down... and I want all of you to know that it’s okay to cry. If you cry when Luke Skywalker takes his Father’s mask off at the end of RETURN OF THE JEDI... more power to you. I, personally, couldn’t cry... because Darth Vader looked like Humpty Dumpty on Meth... but you get the idea.

Wasn’t this guy on Tru-Life: I’m a Meth-Head ?

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Thank you to Nick Smith for the entertaining and mind-provoking article. Everyone be sure to visit the Facebook, MySpace, and/or Twitter fanpages to find out more details about CrossTopix and future articles. If you are interested in being a guest, please contact kingstvo@gmail.com

Tune in next Wednesday as the CrossTopix discussion makes its return with guests Jasmine and Red for heavy discussion on Batman, the next Metroid video game, and anime!