Retro Game Gabbing - (Part 2)

Welcome back. This week I tackle part two of my Retro Gaming Gabbing, reflecting upon my retro gaming history. You can catch part one be clicking this link. In my last post I talked about discovering a gift box site, named Man Crates, which offered retro gaming crates.

One crate contained a cartridge of the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) game Duck Hunt. Upon seeing this I started to reminisce on the vintage gaming that has made me the man geek I am today. Unfortunately (or fortunately), if you found it interesting, I went into too much depth on generation three and four (see here for an explanation of generations) and I ran out of lines to go further. I am of the belief, that blog posts should be kept short and sweet; especially when you are as dull as me.

Image from Steam Community

So, without wasting any more time, here is my memories of gaming generation five. Sorry if it seems Nintendo heavy, I was little hooked (not in a cultish way).

Generation Five

Generation five was all about hand-me-downs for me. At the time I was still playing a generation four console, whilst my brother played his N64 in his room. Occasionally I was allowed to play games with him, like Blast Corps. and every fanboy’s favourite Goldeneye. Looking at these titles alongside a few others released for the N64, such as Diddy Kong Racing, MarioKart 64 and Super Smash Bros.,I realise that this generation was a golden age in split screen (for me at least). To be fair it makes sense, games had progressed to a point where they could handle a lot of on-screen activity, but we lacked the capabilities of the advanced internet we have today.

Image from How Stuff Works

When my brother got a Playstation One (PS1) I inherited his N64. Which meant that the N64 was the first console that I bought my own games for. I can still remember going around a friend’s house and experiencing Banjo Kazooie. On the next trip to the local shopping centre I recognised it on shelves, and purchased it with what pocket money I had to hand; plus a little advance from my father of course. I can remember vividly the store I bought it from, and the feeling of holding that small cardboard box in my hands (the old boxes felt much warmer than the cases we have today, ah nostalgia’s rose-tinting glasses). Unfortunately, the box is gone and the store too. But Banjo Kazooie’s cartridge still remains in my possession. My collection soon grew to including Pokemon Stadium One and Two, Pokemon Snap, Super Smash Bros.

In fact Pokemon Stadium One still stands out in my gaming history as one of my finest moments. For weeks I attempted to beat the Champion League’s Elite Four without any luck, even my brother couldn’t accomplish it. But then, one Saturday morning as everyone slept (I do resent them not being present for such a defining moment), I finally beat the League. To say I was excited would be an understatement. I am not ashamed to say that I ran up and down the house, multiple times cheering my head off. If my family had been asleep they certainly weren’t for long. I hadn’t even checked to see what my prize was for such an accomplishment. I was a little disheartened to find it was just an Eevee, but still beating them was enough, something I did regularly after I realised the formula.

Image from WiiU daily

One regret I have about the N64 is that I never owned a copy of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time on it. The game is one of my favourite stories, in my favourite game series and yet I haven’t owned the original cartridge. I have, of course, completed Ocarina of Time (in fact multiple times on multiple consoles), but not on its original platform. I also admit to never finishing The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask, although I will rectify this soon with the upcoming remake on the Nintendo 3DS.

When my brother moved on to generation six with the Playstation Two I got my hands on his PS1. At this point I became rather fickle and forgot about my allegiances to the N64. Too caught up in the amazing Metal Gear Solid, a story so complex that my head now can’t even cope with the story. I don’t think I was too concerned at the time; not when I could take down a helicopter, right after repelling down a building. The game captivated me so much that I began telling people I wanted to be a missionary, just like Solid Snake (the main character: a mercenary). People were rather confused that I believed a missionary went on secret missions to say the least.

Start-up screens still give me a shiver (in a good way)
PS1 start-up screen from Galih

I also remember the morning of my eighth birthday as a result of receiving PS1 games (I really am a geek aren’t I?). That morning I awoke bleary eyed to find that my Mum had piled my presents around me as I slept. That day I received; a garish green and purple neon Walkman, with a tape of the Witch Doctor, a copy of Rayman and Gex: Enter the Gecko along with other things that have faded from my memory. I loved both of these games, and still do, but have yet to complete them. I still retain an obsession for Leslie Phillip’s voice due to his voice acting in Gex.

Yet again, I seemed to have had more to talk about than I expected. I will stop there before I bore you any further. The next post on Geek Boy Babbles won’t be so indulgent I promise. There will be a break in gaming generations before I return to tackle generations six, seven and then handheld histories.  

Until then let me know your opinions and memories in the comments below.

Merry Christmas 2014

I think it is a tad to late to say it's beginning to look a lot like Christmas. To be honest it has started to look this way since late September.

Regardless I have held out from doing a Christmas blog post until this week. A week that began with a new tradition, but will also include all the old ones too. A perfect time to reflect on my own personal festive traditions.

We didn't decorate ours, just placed one in the fireplace.

Firstly, the new tradition that I added to my list this year was the burning of a Yule log. This is a pagan tradition, one which I took part in because of a agreement between Amy and myself. I won't go into detail on this agreement yet, however, I'm sure you will hear more about it in the year ahead.

The burning of the yule log represents the end of the old year and encouraging a prosperous year ahead. It is performed around the Winter solstice, which is the shortest day of the year (this year the 21st December). I fear I may have simplified that tradition a bit, but that is how I viewed it.

As I watched the log burn I thought about the year ahead and what I wanted from it. I thought of prosperity, renewal and restoration. I also thought that to achieve these I would need to sacrifice things in return, whether that be through time money or effort. We must always put in something to see a return.

As for returning traditions there are the obvious, like watching The Muppet's Christmas Carol, The Nightmare Before Christmas and perhaps some sitcoms too (or Adventure Time). Also I have already begun the tradition of listening to festive music as I work. Last year I found myself in the bottom floor of my University library, reading legal cases from the eighteenth century to the sound of Wombling Merry Christmas. Not the oddest way a law student has coped with studying the law, believe me.

I have also eaten rather a lot of junk food. My personal favourite so far has been some home-made shortbread.

Part of the food celebration will include the traditional eating of Astronaut ice-cream on Christmas eve (it's a long story).

I spent last Christmas around my brothers Christmas tree,
Pretty isn't it?

Of course soon on Christmas day will be the usual gift-giving and then on Boxing day comes eating left over food and opening a tree present.

This year marks the first that I won't be spending with my family and instead with my girlfriend and her parents. I will be seeing my own family on New Years a nice compromise, that has the side effect of two festive celebrations.

How are you all spending the festive period? Let me know below in the comments.

Yule log image from Kappaphi,

Amsterdam sights to see for a geek like me.

Last week marked the end of my penultimate week as a Winchester student. I would say it was a somber occasion and I savored every moment. Unfortunately, I can't due to the amount of work that needed to be done. Instead my days were spent buried beneath work consisting of criminal law, Intellectual Property and Teaching; sounds thrilling right?

In the end what got me through the mountains of work was the thought that soon I would have four weeks of holiday. Time that I will spend half relaxing and half maintaining a level of work so that I don't fall behind.

However from tomorrow I have allowed myself one straight week without any thought to work. Possibly because I will be far removed from my laptop, literally, as I will be in Amsterdam. Whilst I am sure I will feel some immense work guilt, I will just have to console myself with some of the city's greatest (or nerdiest) sights.

Image from Thierry on Flikr

Here is what I hope to be able to visit.

1. Nerdy shops.
   It would seem like Amsterdam has quite a few nerdy and retro shops. So of course I am more than interested. Two I am especially interested in are Game Over and Go Joker comics. The first for retro video games at some reasonable prices (I hope). And the second because they sell comics under the name of one of my favourite characters. Both are on my hit list.


2. The Canals.
   I may be a nerd, but I do appreciate natural beauty. There is nothing I like more than water. Couple this with the fact that the canals are one of the first things people mention when you say Amsterdam (apart from that other thing), ensures I am pretty hyped for them. With any luck we will be taking a canal cruise during our stay. It may be a bit too cold for the traditional bike ride along the side however.


3. The food.
   How does a plate full of small pancakes covered in icing sugar, that you smother in butter sound? What about deep fried caked dough? Add in chocolate sprinkle sandwiches and you can see why I am excited for the food.


4. Anne Frank's House.
   It may sound cliched, but a stop here is definitely on my list. Out of respect, if nothing else. I did try to read Anne Frank's diary once and couldn't really get on with it. I have a love of history, however, so will take this chance to respect the darker times of history.


5. The Architecture.
   I am not a massive fan of buildings. Yet even I can't help admitting that there is something picturesque about the pictures I have seen of the buildings on the waterfront. Also it never hurts to have a change of scenery.

Image from Amsterdam.info

So, there you have it five reasons I am looking forward to my adventure in Amsterdam. I bet it wasn't quite what you expected a student to be looking forward to in a city with its certain reputation.

Christmas Tag Time

 It seems blog-tags are coming to me thick and fast, well maybe not actually considering this is only the second on Geek Boy Babbles. For those who are interested the first one can be found here, and was a post all about random facts about myself.

This tag is a bit more seasonally appropriate, considering I am posting this on the 1^st of December, and is all about Christmas. The tag was passed to me by Jenna Louise Lloyd, who got it from Amy (different Amy).

Nothing about this Santa looks right. 

I will be tagging DependantonGadgets, Suzy Marie and Anna Celeste.

1. What is/are your favourite Christmas movie/s?
   Tough one this, despite not being my favourite Christmas films, I guess it would be between The Muppet Christmas Carol and The Nightmare Before Christmas. Due to having to watch both of these films during the season every year. You would think films I have seen at least 15 times would have got old, but I still sing along every year regardless.
2. Do you open your Christmas presents on Christmas Eve or Christmas morning?
   Christmas morning of course, what do you think I am? I like to savour the excitement; to the point that one gift, the 'tree present' (a small gift that fits in the tree) doesn't get opened until Boxing Day.
3. Do you have a favourite Christmas memory?
   This may sound sad but not really I'm afraid. Not because I've had a harsh life, but because I enjoy every year as much as possible. Last year was epic as I got to celebrate once with my housemates, once with my family in Norfolk, once with my Grandparents and  once with my family in Dartford. I was all over the place, yet loved every stuffing moment. This year I am off to Amsterdam just before Christmas, in Norfolk for the actual day and then Dartford for New Years. Hectic once again and I can't wait, the best bit, returning to Uni for a Law exam the week semester starts.  A big thanks to the University of Winchester's Law department.
4. Favourite festive food?
   Turkey, stuffing and all the trimmings. Basically the savoury Christmas dinner. Although, as my housemates found out last year, you can't beat Josh Francis' Christmas stew and dumplings.
5. Favourite Christmas gift?
   Hmmm, another hard one. I have had a few that I can name, my GameBoy SP complete with Pokémon Ruby, my various gaming stuff and then there is the annual Space-Man Ice Cream I get every year now... Hint, hint, Dad!
6. Favourite Christmas scent?
   I thought they were all the same; cinnamon, spice, it's all pretty and nice.


7. Do you have any Christmas Eve traditions?
   Not as such, perhaps get to sleep early to bring on the fun quicker. Although, I usually stay up to see the night in. Also of course, watching aforementioned films, if I haven't caught up on them by that time already.


8. What tops your tree?
   A snowman made from a toilet-roll tube made by my brother. It is the only thing that looks natural to me. A fairy looks like it is being tortured, I guess a star is nice however.


9. As a kid what was the one (crazy, wild, extravagant) gift you always asked for but never received?
   Peace on earth... only kidding, what child wants that? I'm not sure I can ever remember a toy I never got but massively wanted. Perhaps I was a bit spoilt, or that I was so hyper over what I got that I forgot my list afterwards.


10. What’s the best part about Christmas for you?
    This one has been turned upside down somewhat by Amy Brown, but it used to be how different every day felt around Christmas. some days are anticipation, others excitement; then there's tiring, relaxing and eventually somewhat reflective. I love the whirlwind of emotions the season brings. Now since being in a relationship I find the highlight is appreciating all the little twinkles alongside someone else (eugh, so cheesy!).
    
    

The UK Blog Awards 2015

Right now, I am feeling rather overwhelmed with work. Don’t let anyone tell you that University students just sit around all day twiddling their thumbs; we don’t, well some don't.

I find myself spending each week trying to carefully balancing:

Two law modules, one creative writing module,  two part-time jobs, being co-admin of the University of Winchester’s Writer’s Society; trying to eat, sleep and generally stay healthy; be a good friend/boyfriend, keep up with a ten thousand word dissertation and write a blog post a week.

Do you know what? I am shattered.

But, I will say that sometimes hard work can pay off and this week I found out that my blog has been nominated for two categories in the UKBlog Awards 2015.

Geek Boy Babbles has been nominated in the categories of young blogger and technology blog. This news gave me a little pep that showed me hard work can pay off.

From now until the 1^st December 2015, the nominees are up for the public vote. I would really appreciate any and all support from you, dear reader.

You can follow these links, here and here, to vote for Geek Boy Babbles in the categories.

I really do appreciate the votes and if you can join my campaign by spreading this post and the links to anyone and everyone I would be really grateful.

A cheeky shout-out to some of my blog friends who have also been nominated; please show them the support they deserve too:

Dependent on Gadgets

Emily Benet - more laughs than Bronte, also here.

The Willow Web, also here.

Thank you very much for any and all support, here is a slightly embarassing photo of me for your troubles.

Tag I'm It: The Liebster Award

The UK Blog Awards voting opened today and my blog Geek Boy Babbles is entered under two categories: Young Person and Tech blog.
Any and all support for me in the awards is appreciated.
Well this is certainly exciting, my first blog tag on Geek Boy Babbles. I would like to thank Anna Kissed Celeste for this challenge, known as the Liebster Award. The blogger tagged as part of the award must give 11 random facts about themselves, then answer 11 questions put to them by the tagger. After that, the tagged blogger can issue 11 of their own questions to inflict, sorry, pass on to 5-11 other bloggers.
I don’t know what's up with all the 11s; perhaps they’re in season this year.

So, without further ado: 
11 Random Facts 
1. Despite having a deep hatred for football I actually have a working knowledge of the game and the teams. I can even explain to you the offside rule. This is a result of growing up in a family that was more than a little obsessed with the sport. To this day I have a distrust for everything to do with Derby, due to a family-based Nottingham Forest biased.


2. I enjoy making things and I am often crafting something or other. I recently got into Amigurumi (crocheting plush toys), but in the past have constructed props for costumes; such as my keyblade from Kingdom Hearts. Which I vow will someday be used as pert of a Sora cosplay. If you want to check out some of my stuff then check out the Crafty Projects page on this blog.


3. I consider myself as having a semi-eidetic memory (also known as photographic memory) and because of this get compared to the characters Sherlock (from BBC'S Sherlock) and L (from Death Note). Considering both of these characters are rather odd to say the least you would expect me to be insulted, actually I'm rather proud. Why semi-eidetic? well it is contested whether the condition exists. And yes I do use practices such as 'mind palaces', although I think of it more like a memory map or tree.


4. I can sing the whole of the musical episode of Scrubs (My Musical) after I watched obsessively for a few weeks.


5. I am more than a little bit geeky and consider myself to be an emo (although the age of 21 is pushing the boundaries of either). For this reason I coined the term 'gemo' to describe myself.


6. Despite random fact number two I loathe the shop Hobby Craft. The reason for this is the how expensive their prices are and working for the company for little over a year.


7. Apart from Geek Boy Babbles I run another blog: Taken To Tokyo, which is part of my university dissertation. I also used to ran Saxon Daze, where I reviewed sweets and candy. I ended Saxon Daze after a year of blogging, believe me there is only a few ways you can describe chocolate before you get bored of it.


8. I am not your stereotypical student, and since attending the University of Winchester I have actually become healthier. I haven't drunk alcohol since the second semester of my first year (partly down to too many nights of being taken home in the 'safety bus' during semester one) and go to bed usually before eleven. I don't even get to lie in as my body wakes up naturally about seven thirty!


9. Despite being rather nerdy, I loathe computers and their accessories. I can't fathom software or computer programmes and have gone through more than four printers. As a writer I much prefer pen and paper and hate how I have to use Microsoft Word for the majority of my work.


10. I don't consider myself a vegetarian, but I really dislike meat. Nothing to do with my morals I just really hate the texture, the preparation in cooking it and the taste. I much prefer vegetables and meat free products. If I do eat meat it is usually chicken, ham or cod; but they are my limits.


11. To relax whilst studying law I have found myself: reading law upside down, crocheting, baking, listening to The Muppet Movie soundtrack, eating vast amounts of carrots, throwing balled up socks at my friends, doodling, origami, walking after midnight in the rain, watching Youtube and many more things. Basically studying law can be dull, stressful, moral questioning and unpractical; although I enjoy every second of it.

It looks like I've been spotted!

And now to the questions put to me by Anna Kissed Celeste:

1. Have you taken any exciting trips anywhere you can tell us about?
   Easy one to start, eh? This summer my girlfriend Amy and I travelled to Tokyo. It was an amazing trip to a city that made me feel more at home then anywhere I have ever been. I miss it everyday, although this is both helped and hindered by my dissertation; which is a series of travel pieces based upon the trip.


2. Where would you love to visit the most?
   At one time this would have been easy to answer: Tokyo. But since I have been there it would probably now fall to Oslo in Norway. I studied it once and fell in love with its name, the society and Scandinavia in general.


3. What is your favourite social media platform? I will admit to being less than proficient with computers and almost equally as bad at keeping in touch with people. Overall, I find myself most at ease with Twitter (@JoshFrancis93); I hate Facebook with a passion.


4. How long have you been blogging for?
   I have been blogging in some form or another for just under two years now. My current blog Geek Boy Babbles is still pretty new and under half a year old.


5. What can we expect to find in your blog?
On my blog, Geek Boy Babbles, you can expect all kinds of nerdy posts. Mostly reviews or news on the latest books, film and games. But sometimes I post the odd rant or opinion piece too.

6. Can you describe to us a memorable dream you've had?
   I am terrible at remembering my dreams and those I do recall probably shouldn't be mentioned.


7. What is your ideal career path?
   Ideally I would like a career in freelance writing, that is my most grounded aspiration. My dream job would to someday be a stand-up comic, as I love to make people laugh. I believe laughter is one of the most human things to do, especially uncontrollable giggle fits.


8. If you had a talk show, what would you name it?
   I think I would stick with the name of my blog. It really encapsulates what you get with me: a talkative nerdy guy.


9. What is your favourite film of the moment and why?
   I am still in love with Joss Whedon's Serenity, not just because of the film and lets face it space-western is always awesome. But because of the community it created amongst the fans and the way it saw the light of day after the show, Firefly, was cancelled.


10. Can you tell us about an artist who's music meant a lot to you?
    Probably one of the most recent influential artist on me is Mat Devine and the band Kill Hannah. They were introduced to me by my girlfriend before we began dating, and was the soundtrack that built up my courage to ask her out.


11.  It will be my 1st Blogiversary in December, what do you recommend should be done to celebrate?
    A massive cake with your face and HTML tag on it. The live tweet eating it and perhaps even get a twitter party hangout going. Whatever you do congratulations, have fun and keep on being an awesome blogger.

If you want to find out more about the geek behind the babbling check out this post here and my about me page.










My Questions

1. Where do you see your blog in: (a) one year, (b) three years and (c) five years time?


2. Who most influenced you to blog?


3. What are your favourite blog posts to read and write?


4. What is TV show could you watch indefinitely?


5. Do you enjoy gaming? If so what is your best loved game/series?


6. Have you got any crafty hobbies?


7. When did you last just completely fall flat-out asleep?


8. What is the best live event you have been to?


9. Where was your first memorable holiday to?


10. What shop do you always have time to lunch in?


11. How do you connect with your audience?

That marks the end of my tag post. Those I pass this challenge on to shall be notified by Twitter. Good luck to those chosen few.

I would also like to end by saying that Monday 10th November is when the public voting opens on the UK Blog Awards 2014. Geek Boy Babbles has been nominated for Young Person and Technology blog.

A full list of candidates can be found here.

Halloween Pumpkin Carving

I know by now most of you will be fed up of me talking about Halloween. I am sorry, I have talked about it a lot; but then again it is my favourite time of the year.

Not just because of the night itself. Everything about late October/early November excites me. The Autumn air is fresh, the temperature isn't quite chilly yet, and the nights draw in at about the right time so that you have an excuse to huddle inside earlier. It also helps that Halloween, Diwali and Fireworks night occur in quick succession; meaning their is no shortage of excitement, but that is just the icing on the cake.

This was my pumpkin effort this year.

I promise that this post will pretty much be my final word on Halloween 2014. So, fear not dear reader, it will soon be past; for 365 days at least.

I just wanted to quickly show you the pumpkins that my flatmates and I carved this year for the evening. I am rather proud of them. Although, I will admit we may have cheated in some peoples' eyes. We used templates for the pumpkins before we carved them, I am so sorry reader if you feel that I let you down.

We had a great evening, even if we didn't leave the house. We also got some trick or treaters come to the door; imagine my surprise opening the door to kid-Flash.

I hope you enjoy the photos below, feel free to comment and share your experiences in the comments below.

Happy Halloween 2014

Hello All,

This is just a quick blog post to wish you all a Happy Halloween. May your tricks be forgiving, and your waistlines just the same, with the treats you tuck in to.I hope you all survive the night and don't get grabbed by ghouls and goblins, what ever you have planned.

My plans are a bit subdued this year. My friends and I will be carving pumpkins, baking some cookies, watching scary films and then retreating under our blankets; probably all before ten o'clock this evening. Oh the joys of being hardworking third-year students.

Also, a quick mention that this week I have finally gotten around to playing the spook-tacular (sorry) Silent Hill 2, a game which every gamer and horror buffs should experience. I have been rather neglectful, until now, of the long list of games that are must plays. Weirdly, what put me off playing wasn't the horror, as I don't find it that scary. It was the rather archaic controls, but once I gave it time they have grown on me. So, now I can add that badge: 'met Mr Pyramid Head to my gamer belt.

How are you guys spending your Halloweens?
Share with us in the comments below.

I wish my meeting with Pyramid Head was this pleasant.

Happy Halloween banner from PDFfun, Silent Hill image from wall4all.

Student Essentials - Wireless Range Extender

I have something to admit, I am one of those people who are more than a little set in their ways. Nothing demonstrates this better than my university housing record. Most students will probably start in halls before floating between landlords for the rest of their degree.

 Not me no, I found a house I liked in my first year and stayed put. I got a little adventurous during my second year. Switching rooms to one upstairs, but now for third year I am happily back in my downstairs cave. I’m happy like this, the room may be small, but its cosy and I have had good times there. Honestly, when the landlords come to get me out they will probably find me growing on the walls; a bit like the cursed crew of the Flying Dutchman from Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest. Except hopefully, I won’t have sold my soul and my skin will have slightly less barnacles growing on it.

To demonstrate my technical know how:
 I have no idea what this is about.

The only real problem with the room is that it is a wireless dead spot. For my first year that wasn’t too bad. Yes, I was cut off from technology when I was at home. But it meant I left the house a lot more, instead of using Facebook to socialise I used my actual face! However, now that I am in my final year the workload makes a good connection a bit essential.

You may think we students spend our whole time slacking off, hell even I think that of certain students. But we do a lot of work and in this age a constant connection is needed for this. I could go back to using the uni’s facilities for work, but this means trekking to campus. This is great on nice days, let’s face it though, I live in Britain and the majority of the days it is going to be cold, wet and I’ll probably be set upon by wolves; seriously, some days you just can’t leave the house for those things.

So this year I took affirmative action, well I bought something shiny, (Firefly reference for the win!) I got myself a wireless extender, luckily Argos were having a sale and I found a few cheap(ish) options. I hammered in the code for the TP Link Wi-Fi extender or TL-WA850RE, but I call it Jeff.

As technology know-how goes I am somewhat limited. Restricted to being able to plug stuff in and pray that it does what the box tells me it will. Luckily this model has an easy set-up, which was: plug it into a spare socket, press a button on the front and on our router and then place it between said router and my room.

The difference was immediate, enough that I constructed a review for it. I can actually now have a signal throughout my cave without having the door open. Better yet, I can stream videos, whole videos, without getting hypnotised by those swirling circles. Just think with that kind of help I may be able to write my dissertation, so long as I don’t watch too many videos.

For a student like myself I have to recommend a Wi-Fi extender like this. It really is an essential for university; make sure you put one on your packing checklist. Also I recommend a packing checklist, but that’s for another post.

I’m not being paid by T.P Link and hopefully prove this by suggesting you buy any model of extender, regardless of brand. But the model I have is great, plus it comes with a three year warranty. This means that when I need a work break I can play keepy-ups with it too.

If you do find areas in your home have issues with dropping Wi-Fi then definitely give one of these a go. They are small, simple to use and usually cheaper than buying another box to re-route the signal. Definitely a student essential.

T.P Link image from PCAdvisor, Info graphic from biztech magazine

Top Ten Books to me

Some of you may have already seen the most recent chain campaign currently making the rounds on Facebook. I was quite surprised to see a new one appearing considering the ALS bucket challenge has only just lost momentum. Before you ask, yes I have done that challenge and yes I will be posting it on here in due course; no doubt many of you want to see me drenched.

The latest challenge is to create a list of the ten books that have stuck with you throughout your life. I must admit I was tagged a few weeks ago, but it has taken me a while to decide.
The problem is, as usual, the moment someone asks me to think of anything my mind draws a blank. Suddenly I couldn't remember a single book I have read let alone ones of significance. Which of course was ridiculous, especially considering in the last two weeks I have read five books cover to cover.

1. The Hitchhiker's Guide To The Galaxy  by Douglas Adams
   The radio adaptation was always played in our car on long journeys throughout my childhood. It never got repetitive or stale. Both this and the book helped shape my humour and personality above other media. 


2. Frankenstein by Mary Shelley
   I picked this book up as part of my A Level English course and instantly fell in love. This was far from the Hammer Horror cliched story I was expecting. I was drawn into the tragic story, and it blurred the lines between monster, society, good and bad. 


3. Muddle Earth by Terry Pratchett and Chris Riddell
   I read this when I was young, ashamedly not that young. However, it made me laugh even after multiple readings. Rather a guilty pleasure of mine.


4. The Wind-Up Bird Chronicles by Haruki Marukami (translation by Jay Rubin)
   The most recent addition, after returning from Tokyo I was pining for the culture. So I gave this a read and finished the 600 pages in little under two days.


5. A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens
It has always been a tradition of mine to read this around the Christmas season, usually followed by watching The Muppet Christmas Carol.


6. The Shining  by Stephen King
   One of the first books I read that wasn't from the childrens' section. Think I jumped in a the deep end a bit. But I loved it and poured through it's pages at lightening speed, pausing only when the tension got too much. It spooked me in places, but not enough to put it in the fridge like Joey on Friends.


7. Blog INC. by Joy Deangdeelert Cho
   I found this book the week I began blogging; in a TV exhibition of all places. The coincidence made me purchase it and it has been beneficial beyond bounds to me as a blogger. It even covers situations I have yet to come across. I can only dream of the levels of success needed to put some sections into use.


8.  Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone by J.K Rowling
   Whilst not a mere mention of Harry Potter brings out a hipster sigh from me, I can't deny it has had an impact. My parents began the series by reading to me and by the end I was reading to them. The series kick started the fire of reading within me which has yet to even dwindle.


9. Winnie the Pooh by A. A. Milne
Another series that was read to me as a child and one I hope to read to my own children. I still chuckle at the voice my Dad gave to Eeyore as he floated down the river during a game of Pooh sticks.

    10. Alice's Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll

          I read this book on a holiday to France, during the trip we spent a lot of time travelling and I soon had the book finished. I loved it for it's surreal story, one which can be read in multiple ways. Is Alice mad, grieving, in another world or just asleep? You can decide for yourself.

So there we have it. My ten most influential reads. Now I want to hear yours; take this as a tag to anyone and everyone who reads this. If you're a blogger and you do it let me know and I'll link you in the post.

Robin Williams

Last week, as many of you will have heard, the man/myth Robin Williams sadly took his own life. His death will leave a big hole in many of our hearts as his films and comedy touched many minds. In my post this week I would like to reflect on the legacy that he leaves behind.

Firstly, I would like to state that I'm not going to praise every single appearance he had. Whilst he was a superb actor, he was also fallible. For instance I believe his performance as the genie in Aladdin  is the weakest part of an otherwise amazing film. Also his stand-up never appealed to me, although I can appreciate the impact he has had on American comedy circuits. But, Robin Williams did have an impact upon me on numerous ways and I want to talk about a few of these.

• Aladdin- This film is one of my favorite Disney animations and fondly watched throughout my childhood (due in no small part to it being my fathers favorite and we seem to have various copies as he forgets we own it already). However, as I have touched on already William's character in this was the biggest let down, if I'm honest he was just too childish for my taste.                                                                                                                          
• Hook- I am a big of Peter Pan fan and Hook is a refreshing take on the classic children's adventure. William's portrayal of a Peter Pan who has not only grown up, but also forgotten his life in Neverland is amazing and at points touching. He's perfectly balanced too by Dustin Hoffman as the villainous Captain James Hook.                                                                   
• Patch Adams- I have only seen this film recently, but can recommend it whole-heartedly. A story (based loosely on true events) about a doctor whose core belief is that a happy patient will take better to treatment. It is a great feel-good film for when your feeling blue. Laughter is, after all, the best medicine.                                                                                              
• Jumanji- Growing up this film always seemed to be on TV at one time or another. Despite this I always found myself watching it. I'm not quite sure why I did watch it eagerly as it's far from perfect. Just one of those films to have on in the background as I go about other things.   
• Mrs. Doubtfire- This is a bit of an odd one as I haven't actually seen this film. But, it is a film I am desperate to see. People are always citing it as being a brilliantly funny film and I feel like I commit a disservice by missing out so far.                                                                    
• Legend of Zelda franchise- Lastly as a gamer the last mention I'd like to make is to Robin Williams as a patron of the Zelda games. He was an avid player of the series, starring in trailers for them and even named his daughter after the princess. This year the two attended E3 and a mask held by Zelda gave many fans hope for a re-make of a classic.

These are just my personal observations on the career of Robin Williams. I realise I have barely scratched the surface. I would like to send my condolences to his family and friends who has left behind and who I'm sure feel the void more that most. I welcome your observations in the comments below about your views on his career.

Image from Lightlybuzzed.

Tokyo Trip top points, so far.

I am sending this post all the way from Tokyo in Japan, fancy right? As amazing as the trip is; it means I can't do a full blog post today or Monday. So, to rectify this I am going to compile a few lists about things I am noticing during my trip.
I'm sure that once I am home there will be many posts and articles fully detailing my experiences.

1. Japan is filled with colourful characters: Often I would chastise those who summed up Japan as full of anime and video games. But, now I will have to agree with them slightly. Pointing out of course that I can only agree based on my experience of Tokyo.

2. There are a lot of people in Tokyo and not a lot of space: Which has led to buildings standing shoulder to shoulder, being built high into the sky and deep beneath the surface.

3. The trains certainly run on time, but they can be overwhelming to newcomers.

4. Japan has all kinds of crazy foods and sweets: During my trip I have eaten locusts, frog legs, snail, intestines and unidentifiable substances. All but the intestines was rather delicious.

5. You don't know what true rush hour hell is until you've been in the Salary man rush.

6. There is a lot more English around then you would think: before I was worried that there would be no word understandable to me. Yet, most signs in Tokyo have some English on them and there is always helpful translators on hand.

7. The sound of a cicada is quite frankly deafening. Is that a whole hive? Nope, it's just one, and it's active. But you'll probably not see it until it flys at your face.

8. Whilst, I have seen some wondrous things, I have also noticed a lot of problems that would certainly put me off living in Tokyo.

9. There is very little point to the one Yen coin, yet they seem to be in overabundance; especially in my pocket.

and finally...

10. Tokyo skyline viewed from on high is beautiful. This only gets grander if you catch it at night, when the city comes alive. The lights along the streets mesmirize, and the skylines twinkerling red warning lights appear like a christmas scene.

In summary Tokyo is a totally different world and a trip here is fascinating. To keep more up to date follow me on twitter, search @JoshFrancis93.

I'd love to hear your views, so please leave them below in the comments.

Baked Kit-Kat

In a few short days I travel to Tokyo, I’m excited to say the least. To get myself in the right frame of mind I attended Hyper Japan 2014 (See my Student Wire article). If I’m honest whilst the event seemed to show Japanese culture it had a clear focus on what we expect, such as Kawaii (cute) fashion. I realise it is far from the only thing I will experience whilst I’m in the actual country.

Whilst I was at Hyper Japan, however I did pick up a certain treat I have been hearing a lot about. As some of you may know Kit-Kats are rather popular in Japan, perhaps due to the name being translated as Kitto-Katsu: which roughly translates as certainly win. There is a mountain of weird and wonderful varieties available, such as Green tea, strawberry cheesecake, dark chocolate the list goes on. One of the most popular is baked pudding flavour and often even the dedicated Kit-Kat stores will sell out of them. So I felt pretty certain I had won myself when I found them on sale on a sweet stall.

Now the why out of all the flavours are these so popular? Well, it is because the ‘baked’ part of their name actually describes the preparation not the flavour. That’s right these guys can be cooked. Unfortunately for me the instructions are in Kanji, but after searching for some Youtube videos I know how to cook them. So, after lining a baking tray I was ready to begin baking like Cooking Mama herself.

Ebony and Ivory side by side on my foil-lined baking tray.

When I opened the packet I was hit by a very intense smell of caramel, almost sickly. They are meant to be Crème Brulee flavour so I expected a hint of burnt sugar. I didn’t expect to get a sugar high from the smell alone. I tried one of the fingers, they come in mini-packs of two, uncooked and I wasn’t too impressed. The outside had the appearance of white chocolate, unfortunately not  the taste: it had little flavour and a texture that was rather waxy.

However I persevered and popped the baking tray into the oven, and in the interest of science also included a regular Kit-Kat finger. I put the oven on 180 degrees, but ended up putting it a bit higher. Guides I had read suggested leaving it for four minutes. I wasn’t taking any chances, and on a Saturday night I sat on the kitchen floor eagerly watching the oven.

 

Such an exciting student.

The chocolate started bubbling and after about six minutes the outside started puffing up and turning brown. It had the appearance of puff pastry when I pulled it out. The regular bar just looked a bit burnt, and after a nibble I can confirm it was rather char-grilled. But the baked one was rather different. It had a nice and subtle vanilla aroma and the outside flaked when I picked it off the tray. Taste wise it was Ok, nothing spectacular: Just subtly sweet but not caramel as I had expected. The texture was nice as it fell apart in my mouth.

Neither looked too appealing if I am honest.

 Overall I think the main draw of these is the preparation. Their popularity lies in their novelty and, unfortunately they don’t quite live up to the hype. Unlike some I will not be cancelling my trip to Japan after this disappointment, no instead I will just have to try more flavours once I’m there to make up for it.

Packing list for Tokyo

I will  freely admit that I am not a planner, in fact I absolutely detest thinking too far ahead. Don't get me wrong, I think through what I'm going to do, but as I like things to be a surprise I prefer to stay in the moment.

This isn't a very good idea when you are travelling; especially when that travelling takes you cross the globe. So with more than a little help from the wonderful Amy I have compiled a packing list.

If you are looking for inspiration for your own packing, or are just feeling a little nosey, then take a look. Also if you have any suggestions concerning all things long-haul, leave them in the comments below.

Suitcase

• 4 light shirts and trousers (I'm lucky as I'm staying with friends that I will have access to washing machines)
• 5 small reporter notebooks plus pens (I am after all a writer).
• Chargers for my camera, tablet, phone and many more
• Shower supplies and toiletries in clear bottles
• Hat, sandles and other items that will make me stand out as a tourist
• Insect repellent

Hand luggage

• Passport
• Confirmation letters for flight, hotel, directions Etc.
• Itinerary (which Amy is keeping hold of as I'm not to be trusted)
• Notebook
• Tablet
• Headphones
• Phone
• Neck pillow, which may kill my neck more than nothing at all
• Snacks for the plane (the most important part)

I have to admit I am rather proud of my planning. One point I am dreading is the passport check; as I have lost quite a bit of weight since it was taken.

Overall I am super hyped and by the time you have read this I shall be well on my way. 

Monty Python Live at London's O2

Catholic confessors, dirty peasants clapping coconut shells and a ten-foot Norwegian Blue parrot- who had unfortunately expired. Three rather unique sights I saw on a trip to London's O2 on Friday the 18th of July; and at that point the event had yet to begin.

What show show could draw such crazy sights? Monty Python Live of course. If the posters are to believed this is the last tour the Python's (John Cleese, Eric Idle, Michael Palin, Terry Gilliam, Terry Jones and Graham Chapman [via old footage]) will ever perform. Not only this, but it also marks their first tour together in thirty years. Both factors have made this a hard to miss experience for a comedy nut like myself. Having said that it was actually rather easy for many to miss the show, Tickets for the first performance sold out within 35 seconds- I was lucky to get mine.

'This is a dead parrot.'

However, approaching the dome I didn't feel lucky or even excited: I felt like a charlatan. I wasn't born when Flying Circus first aired, nor was I overly keen of sketches I'd seen on clip-shows. I enjoyed the film Holy Grail, and Life of Brian never ceases to make me chuckle. But I wouldn't class myself as a hard-core Python fan, and I felt like I was a bit out of my depth. Surely the crowds would sense someone not so enthused, and that there were others more deserving of my seat.

Far from being made to feel excluded, instead I picked up on the surrounding excitement and eagerly awaited the Python's return. I couldn't help it, there was a buzz in the air. People flocked to the aforementioned dead parrot statue (an homage to one of their best known sketch) to have photos taken. Some people were dressed as famous characters too, there was an air of silly-ness that lends itself to the Python's style of humour.

The stage dressing as a show in itself.

Any remaining unease, was put aside as soon as the show began. Opening with a sketch about four men reminiscing on their childhood. Each one striving to outdo the other in making their lives sound harsh. The stories got to the ridiculous height of one character casually mentioning to another, how he was lucky to have been able to live in a swamp. A great take on the typical English middle-age man troupe of having to one up each other whilst having a moan. It also helped set the tone for the evening: the Python's are back, older and more successful, but they haven't forgotten their roots.

The various sketches were all short and wonderfully silly. Often about noisy body functions, awkward situations or something exploding unexpectedly. In between whilst the set was dressed or even the actors themselves, animations of Terry Gilliam were shown on a screen above the stage. It is these animations that have put me off Monty Python in the past. I can't help but find it's art style slightly creepy, especially the announcer who literally lets his mouth get the better than him. It doesn't sit right with me, but never the less the show was amazing.

I left feeling like I had been doing comedy a dis-service in not giving Flying Circus a proper chance in the past. Something I vow to do now, after all I have the box set.

Well at least they are honest.

I highly recommend the show to both old fans and new, although the former probably won't see anything new. The show is essentially a live remake of their most famous sketches. But you will I'm sure enjoy the modern twists on the old classics. It will win over any fan of juvenile comedy and maybe even those who aren't, the Python's enthusiasm for the show is obvious and you can't help but feel like part of the fun. The crowd definitely couldn't and clapped in time with the various musical numbers.

Whilst the show may be their final tour and the last night has passed, it was broadcast on TV. I'm sure anyone not lucky enough to get tickets can watch it too, I certainly urge you to. The reunion is long overdo, both the audience and the performers

Hyper Japan Cosplay: Ni No Kuni

So after much deliberation and a few helpful suggestions I have decided what to cosplay as for Hyper Japan.

It didn't take much persuading to choose Oliver from Ni No Kuni. I became obsessed with the game earlier this year, completing in a single week (with around 75 hours playtime). I loved the character Oliver and empathized with his quest throughout.

Not sure if I'm quite as innocent and naive as him, but I shall try my best. I even went out stick hunting for my starter wand.

In the end the others were either too easy, uninteresting to me personally or too hard in the short amount of time I gave myself. To the person who suggested Gygas from Earthbound, I'm sorry I disappointed you. But swirling fog of doom or machine alien are beyond me.

My costume all laid out for tomorrows early start.

I promise to update with pictures of Hyper Japan, and of course me as Oliver.

Let me know what you guys think below in the comments section.


Oliver image from theparanoidgamer.

Dirty Little Secret

Guilty pleasures. We all have them, activities we partake in that we are embarrassed about. Not because they are sordid, but because it isn’t normal in society's eye for us to enjoy them. I thought I would take the time to admit to some of my own.

I’ve tried to think of ones that are very different from each other, one for music, film, food, TV show, video game and book. This wasn’t as easy as it sounds either; I am a rather open person and not easily shamed.

Music

See, it's official!

This one is easy, and I came up with the idea for this post whilst I listened. Taylor Swift is my guilty music pleasure. There was a time when I scoffed at those who liked her music, to me she sounded cheesy, girly and a bit too country. But now, thanks in part to a certain person, (you know who you are) I can’t help but smile when I hear her songs.

Yes, most of her songs are along the same theme, either amazing relationship or tragic break-up, but for the most part they are feel good. A big reason for the joy I get from them is due to the memories I have associated to them. So yeah, I’m a Swiftie and proud.

Film

This one was difficult; I wanted a film that I would only watch alone. At first, I thought of the Saw films as I am rather ashamed that I have seen them. But the problem is I don’t really like them, so aren’t really a pleasure.

However, I think that the Resident evil films fit the bill, specifically Resident Evil:Afterlife.  The films have terrible plots, too much gore and tear apart the rich lore that the games set down. As both a gamer and a writer, I should hate these films. Yet, I can’t help but get a little excited at the nods to the game series. The climatic fight against Wesker in Afterlife is lifted straight from the game. My love of the film is due to reminiscing the times I enjoyed playing; which means I should probably just play the games again instead.

TV Series

Some people would be embarrassed if they watched as much children’s TV shows as I do. But I’m not, I love shows like Digimon. Despite their cheesy plots and clichés, it’s nice to have something mind numbing you can just switch off and take in.

But my guilty pleasure is an anime, Welcome To The NHK. This is a show about a man who hates leaving his house. He is obsessed with video games, TV and perhaps, most embarrassingly, dating simulator games. He then meets a mysterious girl who attempts to help him.

You're classic tale of shut-in boy meets insane girl.

What I find most unsettling about the show is how much of my younger self I see in the main character. I sympathised with him throughout, and that’s why it is one of the only animes I have watched until the end. It helps that the plot stays funny and interesting, whilst dealing with complex issues such as sexuality and depression. It is compelling to watch.

Food

This one is short and sweet, quite literally. It’s baby biscuits. It started with a single innocent looking Rusk. But now it’s escalated, and I always keep a packet of baby biscotti at hand. I love them, and they come in different flavours, chocolate, banana, apple and plain. I'm a bit ashamed to admit that I am besotted with biscotti.

Books

This one is pretty easy and is a combination of books. Last year I went through a phase of reading a lot of horror fiction, centred on zombies. Typically these are gore filled; and involve a lot of smashing deceased humanoids skulls in. This is why I often feel uneasy about admitting to liking zombies. It’s because it can quite easily be seen as a way of fantasising about killing our fellow man.

Zombies provide us with a motive for killing each other, they aren’t human anymore. Whilst this is true, it is a thinly disguised excuse for mass murder. For this reason, I always feel a little guilty for enjoying Max Brook’s Zombie Survival Guide. A book that at times takes itself so seriously that I fear for the author’s sanity (even if he is the great Mel Brook’s son, so insanity runs through his genes).

Video Games

At this point it is probably about time that I feel slightly guilty about something that is clearly aimed at children. Viva Piñata is a game which tasks you with keeping an allotment, that’s it, pretty simple. The nicer your patch is, the more piñata animals you attract. It’s sickly sweet, and much like shows such as Digimon it doesn’t take much thought.

Good job too, if you do delve deeper into the game you actually see some rather dark undertones. To attract certain piñatas you must offer some of your residents as food. Basically sacrificing them; quite often I have bred a friendly critter from birth just so that I can feed him to an unfriendly fox. I do feel bad about it, honest. I won’t even talk about the animal husbandry mini-game, that’s just weird.

So there you have it, my secret shames on show for all to see. Although, as someone who is quite proud to be bizarre, it was a hard list to compile. Maybe next I’ll do a list of proud moments to compensate.

But for now, I challenge you to think of your own dirty little secrets. I want to hear them, so why not do a post like mine and I’ll link you in. we can start a chain post and the world can absolve itself. If you’re not a blogger then leave them in the comments below.

Hey Mr. Fudgehog you look happy,
just wait till the Mallowolf comes for ya.

Swift ID created on big huge labs, Wesker image from Comic vine, biscotti image from Tesco, NHK image from alphacoders, Brooks photo from Washingtonlife, Fudgehog image from Spong.