Friday, December 18, 2009
Accepted at SU
I got a letter from Shepherd University today saying that I have been accepted! I'm very happy about this. I'm aiming for a B.A. in economics. I'm already looking at what I can take, but in the back of my mind there's this little voice asking me how I'm going to pay for all of this! I'll admit up front that I can't afford it. However, I think I can get some financial aid. I hate owing anyone money, but it'll be worth it.
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Scam Alert: Bogus Mail From CarSafe
I got some mail that looked "important." It was one of those papers where you have to remove the edges to open it. It said the following on the front:
The first thing that's wrong with this is although it had my mailing address, there was no return address. Anything without a return address should be discarded, regardless how important it looks.
The second thing wrong with it is the period of time they give you to respond. Anyone who wants a response within five days for something you receive in the mail is being unreasonable and doesn't deserve a response as far as I'm concerned. Any reputable company would give you at least two weeks, but most likely a month.
Since I knew I had something good to write about in my blog, I went ahead and took the bate and opened my mail. Inside it has the following:
If the coverage expires on December 11, 2009, why do I need to respond within five days? More important yet, who is CarSafe?
Never sign up with anything with a company you have no past relationship with. Through my research, it seems these people are the same (though the last digit of the phone number is 1 instead of 6.) The also seem to be tied to "Dealer Preferred Warranties" and "Edge Companies." In addition, several people have reported 636-757-7700 and 720-407-0465 in association with the number listed in my mail. I found this individual's solution quite amusing (although I can't claim that it actually works like that, but feel free to try!)
Make: Ford
REQUEST FOR IMMEDIATE ACTION - TIME SENSITIVE MATERIAL ENCLOSED
WARNING: $2,000 FINE, 5 YEARS IMPRISONMENT, OR BOTH FOR ANY PERSON INTERFERING OR OBSTRUCTING WITH DELIVERY OF THIS LETTER. U.S. MAIL TTT.18 U.S. CODE
TO BE OPENED BY ADDRESSEE ONLY
PLEASE RESPOND WITHIN FIVE DAYS
The first thing that's wrong with this is although it had my mailing address, there was no return address. Anything without a return address should be discarded, regardless how important it looks.
The second thing wrong with it is the period of time they give you to respond. Anyone who wants a response within five days for something you receive in the mail is being unreasonable and doesn't deserve a response as far as I'm concerned. Any reputable company would give you at least two weeks, but most likely a month.
Since I knew I had something good to write about in my blog, I went ahead and took the bate and opened my mail. Inside it has the following:
CarSafe
PHONE: 866-364-3336
Make: Ford
IMPORTANT
CALL 866-364-3336 TO EXTEND YOUR VEHICLE'S COVERAGE
** EXTREMELY URGENT AND TIME SENSITIVE **
SERVICE CONTRACT EXPIRATION - THIS IS NOT A BILL
EXPIRATION: 11-DEC-2009
COVERAGE: AVAILABLE
STATUS: PENDING
NEW COVERAGE:
PLATINUM COVERAGE
POWERTRAIN COVERAGE
MINIMUM FINANCE RATE AVAILABLE: 0%
Business Hours
MON-FRI
8:00 AM TO 7:30 PM
SAT
9:00 AM TO 2:00 PM
SERVICE CONTRACT EXPLANATION
REQUESTING:
1. EXTENSIONS AVAILABLE TO 2015
2. UP TO OR ADDITIONAL 150,000 MILES
3. NEW CAR COVERAGE / POWERTRAIN
COMMENTS:
THIS LETTER IS TO INFORM YOU THAT YOUR FACTORY SERVICE CONTRACT HAS EXPIRED OR IS ABOUT TO EXPIRE AND YOU MAY EXTEND YOUR SERVICE CONTRACT COVERAGE ON THE VEHICLE. YOUR EXTENDED SERVICE CONTRACT COVERAGE OFFER EXPIRES ON 11-DEC-2009
PLATINUM:
ENGINE, TRANSMISSION, TRANSFER UNIT OF 4X4, DRIVE AXLE ASSEMBLY, FRONT AND REAR SUSPENSION, STEERING, AIR CONDITIONING UNIT, ELECTRONICS, SEALS, GASKETS, BRAKE SYSTEM, HIGH TECH ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, AND MORE.
POWERTRAIN:
ADDITIONAL 100,000 MILES OF COVERAGE.
CALL TODAY: 1-866-364-3336
PLEASE HAVE YOUR MILEAGE AND VIN # READY SO WE MAY BETTER ASSIST YOU.
MON-FRI: 8:00 AM TO 7:30 PM - SAT: 9:00 AM TO 2:00 PM
If the coverage expires on December 11, 2009, why do I need to respond within five days? More important yet, who is CarSafe?
Never sign up with anything with a company you have no past relationship with. Through my research, it seems these people are the same (though the last digit of the phone number is 1 instead of 6.) The also seem to be tied to "Dealer Preferred Warranties" and "Edge Companies." In addition, several people have reported 636-757-7700 and 720-407-0465 in association with the number listed in my mail. I found this individual's solution quite amusing (although I can't claim that it actually works like that, but feel free to try!)
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Recent News With Me
People have been asking about ProSonic lately, and with that in mind I decided to go ahead and do a full update on my life at this point.
First off, ProSonic was supposed to have a Windows release in September, which got delayed to October. In case you didn't notice, that didn't happen either. The truth is I made a promise to a group working on another project you may have heard of called Sonic 2 HD. I decided I really had to keep my promise to them and do what I said I would do. So lately, I've been programming an editing utility for that project.
That's the reason I haven't been discussing ProSonic lately. I'd like to have ProSonic released for Windows (and perhaps Linux) before the end of the year. I can't promise that will happen, but I'll try for it. My main concern behind ProSonic is quality. I want to make sure it's truly ready to be released. I've been scared of deadlines since last year's release when I took a huge amount of flack for that release. I'd like to avoid that this time around.
In other news, I got a job at a grocery store as a cashier back in October. It took a while for it to become official due to a few complications, but I'm working the lines now. It's a lot to learn, but I'm getting better each and every day. The pay isn't the best, but I'm happy to have a job regardless.
Outside of work, I recently applied to Shepherd University. The only step I haven't taken is to send my official transcripts from my community college (which I'm expecting in the mail within days.) I'm hoping to be able to start there in the spring if the time frame works out (assuming they accept me.) If they don't, maybe I'll get accepted elsewhere, but Shepherd is where I'm most interested in continuing my education. I am also looking into some student loans which I will need to pay my way. Since I'm out of state, it will be way too expensive to pay for right now.
Finally, this isn't as important as the other stuff I mentioned, but I figured I'd put it out there anyway -- I got a haircut today. The lady who did my hair was obviously trying to pitch a sale, but I decided to take the bait anyway and had her put highlights in my hair. I have to say, I have never had anyone put as much effort into my hair as she seemed to do. She did a terrific job on it, and if she's still at the same place the next time I need a haircut, I think I would definitely consider having her do my hair again. I really like it.
That is all there is to say about me at the moment. I'll post more when some new stuff comes up!
First off, ProSonic was supposed to have a Windows release in September, which got delayed to October. In case you didn't notice, that didn't happen either. The truth is I made a promise to a group working on another project you may have heard of called Sonic 2 HD. I decided I really had to keep my promise to them and do what I said I would do. So lately, I've been programming an editing utility for that project.
That's the reason I haven't been discussing ProSonic lately. I'd like to have ProSonic released for Windows (and perhaps Linux) before the end of the year. I can't promise that will happen, but I'll try for it. My main concern behind ProSonic is quality. I want to make sure it's truly ready to be released. I've been scared of deadlines since last year's release when I took a huge amount of flack for that release. I'd like to avoid that this time around.
In other news, I got a job at a grocery store as a cashier back in October. It took a while for it to become official due to a few complications, but I'm working the lines now. It's a lot to learn, but I'm getting better each and every day. The pay isn't the best, but I'm happy to have a job regardless.
Outside of work, I recently applied to Shepherd University. The only step I haven't taken is to send my official transcripts from my community college (which I'm expecting in the mail within days.) I'm hoping to be able to start there in the spring if the time frame works out (assuming they accept me.) If they don't, maybe I'll get accepted elsewhere, but Shepherd is where I'm most interested in continuing my education. I am also looking into some student loans which I will need to pay my way. Since I'm out of state, it will be way too expensive to pay for right now.
Finally, this isn't as important as the other stuff I mentioned, but I figured I'd put it out there anyway -- I got a haircut today. The lady who did my hair was obviously trying to pitch a sale, but I decided to take the bait anyway and had her put highlights in my hair. I have to say, I have never had anyone put as much effort into my hair as she seemed to do. She did a terrific job on it, and if she's still at the same place the next time I need a haircut, I think I would definitely consider having her do my hair again. I really like it.
That is all there is to say about me at the moment. I'll post more when some new stuff comes up!
Sunday, November 01, 2009
Internet Issues
I've been wireless internet accessless (like my wording?) for nearly a week now. I've trying everything I can think of to get my internet connection back. I've tried using my dongle on several computers around the building with no luck getting the thing to even see the router. The computers that are directly connected to the router all access the internet fine.
Tonight, I tested my dongle at my friend's house to see if he could access his router, and it succeeded. I accessed the settings for the router here to see if it was being shared, and it was. So my conclusion is that the most likely scenario is the router is going bad. This is not good for me. I'm unable to directly connect to the router from where I am. This hampers my YouTube ventures, as well as communication between people I have been working with on some side projects of mine.
It appears my ability to do much of anything online is going to continue to be crippled for the time being. I may have to buy a new router. I'm hoping that isn't the case, but it isn't looking good.
Anyone want to share their horror stories of routers failing on them? It seems it's all too common unfortunately.
Tonight, I tested my dongle at my friend's house to see if he could access his router, and it succeeded. I accessed the settings for the router here to see if it was being shared, and it was. So my conclusion is that the most likely scenario is the router is going bad. This is not good for me. I'm unable to directly connect to the router from where I am. This hampers my YouTube ventures, as well as communication between people I have been working with on some side projects of mine.
It appears my ability to do much of anything online is going to continue to be crippled for the time being. I may have to buy a new router. I'm hoping that isn't the case, but it isn't looking good.
Anyone want to share their horror stories of routers failing on them? It seems it's all too common unfortunately.
Wednesday, October 07, 2009
Mentally Disturbed on YouTube
This sent a chill down my spine. Check out AverageNegro's YouTube channel. He says he wants black people dead because they pose a direct threat to the national security of the United States. He himself is black. On his channel, he writes the following:
He continues:
I hate to give a voice to someone like this, but it's scarey to think that people like this are real. Clearly he has issues. He sent me a friend invite, but I refused it. He is also a supporter of the Klu Klux Klan.
What do you people think about this?
It's pretty simple. In order to secure a more perfect union, the deterioration of the United States must be fixed by implementing forceful tactics. There is a gap in the security of the nation called colored people. There are too many incarcerated and the ones free have no knowledge of the world outside the United States which is dangerous. Immigrant colored people are equally dangerous. Colored people harbor and befriend every kind of white person imaginable except law abiding Americans. Colored people should be stomped down on mercilessly because it is the right thing to do.
He continues:
I want many colored people dead to save America
I hate to give a voice to someone like this, but it's scarey to think that people like this are real. Clearly he has issues. He sent me a friend invite, but I refused it. He is also a supporter of the Klu Klux Klan.
What do you people think about this?
Monday, October 05, 2009
All About Me
I made a video about myself. Check it out:
Yes, this means I am doing new videos. I'm attempting to energize my viewership once more and see where I can take my channel. Enjoy!
Yes, this means I am doing new videos. I'm attempting to energize my viewership once more and see where I can take my channel. Enjoy!
Friday, October 02, 2009
Looking Out for People
I'm angry right now. I want to vent, but everywhere I think of venting only seems to put my post at risk of being trashed, so I'll vent on my blog.
When you run a website or forum, like it or not, your job is to look out for people who's information you collect. If you run a message board and you have members there, you are responsible for anything done untoward to your members. The members themselves are responsible for choosing a secure password, but regardless, hacking into a member's account isn't right. So when someone who has done this to several members of a community, screwed up the forum's database, and has a history of trouble-making, I want to see that person gone for good. That is the kind of person the community doesn't need.
I'm talking about Sonic Retro and the forumer who goes by the name x64. How can anyone be stupid enough to let someone like this back yet again? It's also personal for me because he tried to blackmail me once. Granted, the information he had wasn't anything serious, but it was still wrong.
He is a member of Pound Stuff. I view this group as essentially the 4chan of the Sonic scene. They make jokes that are very provocative, sometimes funny and sometimes stupid. There are few moral boundaries to much of what they do for the "lulz." It is mostly (but to be fair, not entirely) made up of anti-social people who have nothing better to do with their lives. He also played a role in the distribution of someone's home mailing address and phone number on the internet, a disgusting tactic that has been glorified on 4chan, Skype, and across some other social networks that unfortunately sometimes draw careless pranksters. Yet, he feels he has done nothing wrong at all.
I'm tired of top Sonic Retro staff members not caring about their members. If they really cared, they wouldn't let people like x64 back in! It's that simple. I've said plenty of nice things about some staff in the past, but I have very little good to say anymore. The arrogant part about it is they act like nothing unusual is going on. Now x64 is posting, and I'm just sitting back waiting for him to cause problems. There is something very morally disturbing about this in my opinion. I know some members don't say anything because they don't want to create any conflicts, and I respect that. I also realize that not everyone who associates with x64 or Pound Stuff is bad. I do feel however that something has to give. How much longer can trouble makers get a free pass just because they're able to buddy up with staff members? In the political world, that would be called "corruption."
I haven't decided yet if I'm going to continue going to Sonic Retro. I go there mainly to promote my YouTube channel, but I could always find other ways to do that. I just wish someone would tell me up front that they too are disturbed by this. I for one cannot begin to fathom how something like this isn't viewed as a big deal.
When you run a website or forum, like it or not, your job is to look out for people who's information you collect. If you run a message board and you have members there, you are responsible for anything done untoward to your members. The members themselves are responsible for choosing a secure password, but regardless, hacking into a member's account isn't right. So when someone who has done this to several members of a community, screwed up the forum's database, and has a history of trouble-making, I want to see that person gone for good. That is the kind of person the community doesn't need.
I'm talking about Sonic Retro and the forumer who goes by the name x64. How can anyone be stupid enough to let someone like this back yet again? It's also personal for me because he tried to blackmail me once. Granted, the information he had wasn't anything serious, but it was still wrong.
He is a member of Pound Stuff. I view this group as essentially the 4chan of the Sonic scene. They make jokes that are very provocative, sometimes funny and sometimes stupid. There are few moral boundaries to much of what they do for the "lulz." It is mostly (but to be fair, not entirely) made up of anti-social people who have nothing better to do with their lives. He also played a role in the distribution of someone's home mailing address and phone number on the internet, a disgusting tactic that has been glorified on 4chan, Skype, and across some other social networks that unfortunately sometimes draw careless pranksters. Yet, he feels he has done nothing wrong at all.
I'm tired of top Sonic Retro staff members not caring about their members. If they really cared, they wouldn't let people like x64 back in! It's that simple. I've said plenty of nice things about some staff in the past, but I have very little good to say anymore. The arrogant part about it is they act like nothing unusual is going on. Now x64 is posting, and I'm just sitting back waiting for him to cause problems. There is something very morally disturbing about this in my opinion. I know some members don't say anything because they don't want to create any conflicts, and I respect that. I also realize that not everyone who associates with x64 or Pound Stuff is bad. I do feel however that something has to give. How much longer can trouble makers get a free pass just because they're able to buddy up with staff members? In the political world, that would be called "corruption."
I haven't decided yet if I'm going to continue going to Sonic Retro. I go there mainly to promote my YouTube channel, but I could always find other ways to do that. I just wish someone would tell me up front that they too are disturbed by this. I for one cannot begin to fathom how something like this isn't viewed as a big deal.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
I Bought a T-Shirt
I didn't even take much time to think about it. I normally think about things for a long time before deciding to spend money, but I get bored with restricting my spending sometimes. I just spontaneously put in an order to get a shirt from this website. If you're not familliar with it, here's a video:
Monday, September 21, 2009
How to Become a YouTube Partner
I've been getting a lot of messages about my partnership with YouTube. For months, I've been saying I wanted to do a video with tips on getting accepted. I have finally done it:
Hopefully that helps some people!
Hopefully that helps some people!
Friday, September 11, 2009
Changes
I am finally, officially, a college graduate. I mentioned before that I finished my classes. I have my degree in hand now. The great disappointment I have is I spent way too long getting this associates degree. That said, I'm not done with school.
I'm currently searching for a job. I can't find what I'm looking for yet. I'm open to a lot of possible job titles, but my problem is I either don't have the experience or education they're looking for, or the job is full time. I'm willing to travel an hour to work if necessary, but job opportunities are not in my favor. I'd pick a full time job if I thought I could handle that on top of school, but I think the best thing for me right now is part time. I want to continue my education for two more years to get a BA, so I don't want to keep my hands tied down without some leverage.
I am hoping I can get this squared away soon. I don't want to not have a job a month from now, because I don't enjoy what I currently do, and I would like to feel more independant and make more money. We'll see how if goes I guess.
I'm currently searching for a job. I can't find what I'm looking for yet. I'm open to a lot of possible job titles, but my problem is I either don't have the experience or education they're looking for, or the job is full time. I'm willing to travel an hour to work if necessary, but job opportunities are not in my favor. I'd pick a full time job if I thought I could handle that on top of school, but I think the best thing for me right now is part time. I want to continue my education for two more years to get a BA, so I don't want to keep my hands tied down without some leverage.
I am hoping I can get this squared away soon. I don't want to not have a job a month from now, because I don't enjoy what I currently do, and I would like to feel more independant and make more money. We'll see how if goes I guess.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
The Truth Behind Praise
This is a rant. If you don't like rants, you are free to ignore the the next couple paragraphs.
There's one thing I really can't stand about people. I can't stand how some of them suck up to you when you're really good at something, but play you down when someone does a better job. I can't stress how many times over the years I've been let down by people I thought genuinely liked me as a person and were truly friendly people.
Anymore, when someone starts praising something I do, I immediately become skeptical of that person. I've almost gotten to a point of paranoia. It's bad. I don't like someone playing me up, and then trashing me when I'm not #1 anymore. What's fair about that?
Something that is even worse is when someone doesn't like you at all until you impress them with something, then suddenly you're their best buddy. I hate that more than anything. That is also something I've seen a lot of in my life. I've impressed so many hundreds of people and gotten so much praise for different things I do, rather it's being the guy who really made Sonic ROM hacking a big thing, or playing a musical instrument, or impressing people with my overall knowledge at a young age; and yet it's so disheartening to know that few really choose to get to know me on a personal basis and see me for the person I am inside. Suddenly, when you make a mistake, you're ridiculed for no real good reason and you begin to realize that they neither liked you nor disliked you to begin with. Essentially they see you as an icon of sorts, but never really a person.
By tomorrow, I'll be fine. Occasionally though, I get in these little moods where I have to ask myself how many people truly appreciate who I am. That's a horrible thing to ask one's self. I know I'm loved, but does it extend as far as I sometimes believe it does? What really cheers me up is when after I've gotten a hard time by those who choose to tear me down, someone comes along and tells me they still believe in me. That means a whole lot, and more people should say it.
Anyway, I needed to vent because sometimes it's not helpful to hold it in and never say anything. I just wish there were more people who were as friendly as I am.
There's one thing I really can't stand about people. I can't stand how some of them suck up to you when you're really good at something, but play you down when someone does a better job. I can't stress how many times over the years I've been let down by people I thought genuinely liked me as a person and were truly friendly people.
Anymore, when someone starts praising something I do, I immediately become skeptical of that person. I've almost gotten to a point of paranoia. It's bad. I don't like someone playing me up, and then trashing me when I'm not #1 anymore. What's fair about that?
Something that is even worse is when someone doesn't like you at all until you impress them with something, then suddenly you're their best buddy. I hate that more than anything. That is also something I've seen a lot of in my life. I've impressed so many hundreds of people and gotten so much praise for different things I do, rather it's being the guy who really made Sonic ROM hacking a big thing, or playing a musical instrument, or impressing people with my overall knowledge at a young age; and yet it's so disheartening to know that few really choose to get to know me on a personal basis and see me for the person I am inside. Suddenly, when you make a mistake, you're ridiculed for no real good reason and you begin to realize that they neither liked you nor disliked you to begin with. Essentially they see you as an icon of sorts, but never really a person.
By tomorrow, I'll be fine. Occasionally though, I get in these little moods where I have to ask myself how many people truly appreciate who I am. That's a horrible thing to ask one's self. I know I'm loved, but does it extend as far as I sometimes believe it does? What really cheers me up is when after I've gotten a hard time by those who choose to tear me down, someone comes along and tells me they still believe in me. That means a whole lot, and more people should say it.
Anyway, I needed to vent because sometimes it's not helpful to hold it in and never say anything. I just wish there were more people who were as friendly as I am.
Saturday, August 01, 2009
The SAGE Release & Upcoming Release
Many people couldn't come to grips with the SAGE release of the ProSonic engine only being available for Mac. I did this because the engine wasn't where I wanted it to be for it's second release, so instead of missing SAGE and thus missing a great promotional opportunity, I prepared the engine for SAGE and limited the number of people who could play it. This would allow it to get the attention I wanted for it, and it allowed it to be tested by people who were interested.
The downside is although there were plenty of downloads, I got feedback from maybe only one or two people. That isn't helpful at all. Perhaps that's my mistake for misjudging what I thought would happen. Still, I have no regrets about holding back on a Windows release.
A new release will definitely happen in September. I have not decided on an exact day yet, but you'll hear about it from me as soon as I make a decision. The September release will include a couple extra features not available in the SAGE release. It will be released for Windows, Mac OS X, Linux, and MS-DOS. Some of the goals I originally set in my 7-point plan will not be accomplished by September. The reason for this is because I have reviewed some of my original plans, and quite frankly, some of them aren't absolutely essential in my opinion. They'll be done sometime, but they're not a "must-have."
Some things you can expect is further scripting support, slightly improved GPI support, VGZ compatibility (the SAGE release only supported standard VGM), and several editing utilities that can be used to modify data and customize the engine.
Object scripting is still in early stages of development, so there will only be certain aspects of it supported. I also plan on changing the way the backgrounds are rendered, but only after the September release (I don't want to get myself into a jam and create problems I can't fix in time.)
That's all there is to say about my engine for the moment. Keep coming back for future updates.
The downside is although there were plenty of downloads, I got feedback from maybe only one or two people. That isn't helpful at all. Perhaps that's my mistake for misjudging what I thought would happen. Still, I have no regrets about holding back on a Windows release.
A new release will definitely happen in September. I have not decided on an exact day yet, but you'll hear about it from me as soon as I make a decision. The September release will include a couple extra features not available in the SAGE release. It will be released for Windows, Mac OS X, Linux, and MS-DOS. Some of the goals I originally set in my 7-point plan will not be accomplished by September. The reason for this is because I have reviewed some of my original plans, and quite frankly, some of them aren't absolutely essential in my opinion. They'll be done sometime, but they're not a "must-have."
Some things you can expect is further scripting support, slightly improved GPI support, VGZ compatibility (the SAGE release only supported standard VGM), and several editing utilities that can be used to modify data and customize the engine.
Object scripting is still in early stages of development, so there will only be certain aspects of it supported. I also plan on changing the way the backgrounds are rendered, but only after the September release (I don't want to get myself into a jam and create problems I can't fix in time.)
That's all there is to say about my engine for the moment. Keep coming back for future updates.
Friday, July 24, 2009
ProSonic for Mac
If you have MacOS X 10.5 on an Intel platform, you can run it! Download the new release of ProSonic for Mac here:
http://www.4shared.com/file/120479118/c300b1e6/ProSonicR2M.html
This release will not be available to Windows users. Instead, they will have to wait for the September release. It does not run on PPC Macs, and it will not run on any other version of MacOS X. You must have 10.5.
I'd like to thank the man running SAGE this year (sorry, I don't see your name anywhere) for hosting this. This is great publicity, and it means a lot! I'd also like to thank CyberKitsune for making this Mac port possible!
ProSonic, for anyone who doesn't know a whole lot about this, is a game engine based directly off the original Sonic engine used in Sonic the Hedgehog, Sonic 2, and Sonic 3. If features 68000 emulation so some objects and routines from the Sonic 2 disassembly can be used, ProCode scripting language designed to make customizing the engine simple, VGM and WAV audio playback support, a built-in level editor, and a direct port of all Sonic's physics from Sonic 2.
When running ProSonic, you should be aware that the engine is not a finished product. This is basically a tech demo that shows off many new features that were not available in last years release. I also took the time to polish this release to be sure it wasn't filled with bugs.
Running ProSonic:
All the key commands are available in the Readme file included with the program. Pay close attention to the [i]M[/i] key. That is your friend. The menu allows you to customize some settings such as vsync and audio volume. It can also be used as a cheat menu (and yes Super Sonic works!) Also, the F11 key can be used to reload a zone. If you change the zone number on the menu and press F11, you will go to that zone.
The attraction stage is used as a entry portal to the other zones included with ProSonic. If you walk up to an area that says "zone warp", you will be warped to the zone number indicated. There are four warp points. See if you can find them all without cheating!
Level Editing:
Although it was made during the first release, this video is a tutorial on how to use the level editor in ProSonic. The other editors are disabled in this release but should be available in the September release.
Networking:
The news on TSSZ was that networking support was added to ProSonic. This is true. I must stress however that it is not available in this release because it's still very buggy. I'm hoping to have it ready for September, but I can't promise anything.
Sound:
ProSonic uses a sophisticated sound engine that allows the sound to be compressed when it approaches clipping. This helps get rid of some of the distortion you would normally hear when there are too many samples playing together. VGM and GYM files are both supported, along with WAV. One important thing to note -- VGM files must be uncompressed. Compressed (VGZ) files will not work with ProSonic. Some files are improperly given the "VGM" extension even though they're supposed to have "VGZ", so if a "VGM" file doesn't work, it's probably because it's really a "VGZ" file.
Scripting:
You can write code for your fangame using ProSonic's scripting capabilities. There are two options. You can write an object (or port it) using a 68000 compiler, or you can use ProSonic's scripting language, called "ProCode". Available here is a package containing the source code to all the 68000-based objects included with ProSonic, taken directly from the Sonic 2 disassembly. Click here to download the ProCode compiler, which also includes the ProCode script files used with this release of ProSonic. You will need to use WINE to run the 68000 compiler.
I will also be writing a guide on how to use the ProCode language soon. Check back here for that.
Screenshots:
No release would be complete without some of these! Check them out:
Final Thoughts:
I want to know what you think. Tell me what you liked about this release, what you didn't like, if you found any bugs or ran into any trouble, and any suggestions you have for future releases. Let me know -- leave a comment!
http://www.4shared.com/file/120479118/c300b1e6/ProSonicR2M.html
This release will not be available to Windows users. Instead, they will have to wait for the September release. It does not run on PPC Macs, and it will not run on any other version of MacOS X. You must have 10.5.
I'd like to thank the man running SAGE this year (sorry, I don't see your name anywhere) for hosting this. This is great publicity, and it means a lot! I'd also like to thank CyberKitsune for making this Mac port possible!
ProSonic, for anyone who doesn't know a whole lot about this, is a game engine based directly off the original Sonic engine used in Sonic the Hedgehog, Sonic 2, and Sonic 3. If features 68000 emulation so some objects and routines from the Sonic 2 disassembly can be used, ProCode scripting language designed to make customizing the engine simple, VGM and WAV audio playback support, a built-in level editor, and a direct port of all Sonic's physics from Sonic 2.
When running ProSonic, you should be aware that the engine is not a finished product. This is basically a tech demo that shows off many new features that were not available in last years release. I also took the time to polish this release to be sure it wasn't filled with bugs.
Running ProSonic:
All the key commands are available in the Readme file included with the program. Pay close attention to the [i]M[/i] key. That is your friend. The menu allows you to customize some settings such as vsync and audio volume. It can also be used as a cheat menu (and yes Super Sonic works!) Also, the F11 key can be used to reload a zone. If you change the zone number on the menu and press F11, you will go to that zone.
The attraction stage is used as a entry portal to the other zones included with ProSonic. If you walk up to an area that says "zone warp", you will be warped to the zone number indicated. There are four warp points. See if you can find them all without cheating!
Level Editing:
Although it was made during the first release, this video is a tutorial on how to use the level editor in ProSonic. The other editors are disabled in this release but should be available in the September release.
Networking:
The news on TSSZ was that networking support was added to ProSonic. This is true. I must stress however that it is not available in this release because it's still very buggy. I'm hoping to have it ready for September, but I can't promise anything.
Sound:
ProSonic uses a sophisticated sound engine that allows the sound to be compressed when it approaches clipping. This helps get rid of some of the distortion you would normally hear when there are too many samples playing together. VGM and GYM files are both supported, along with WAV. One important thing to note -- VGM files must be uncompressed. Compressed (VGZ) files will not work with ProSonic. Some files are improperly given the "VGM" extension even though they're supposed to have "VGZ", so if a "VGM" file doesn't work, it's probably because it's really a "VGZ" file.
Scripting:
You can write code for your fangame using ProSonic's scripting capabilities. There are two options. You can write an object (or port it) using a 68000 compiler, or you can use ProSonic's scripting language, called "ProCode". Available here is a package containing the source code to all the 68000-based objects included with ProSonic, taken directly from the Sonic 2 disassembly. Click here to download the ProCode compiler, which also includes the ProCode script files used with this release of ProSonic. You will need to use WINE to run the 68000 compiler.
I will also be writing a guide on how to use the ProCode language soon. Check back here for that.
Screenshots:
No release would be complete without some of these! Check them out:
Final Thoughts:
I want to know what you think. Tell me what you liked about this release, what you didn't like, if you found any bugs or ran into any trouble, and any suggestions you have for future releases. Let me know -- leave a comment!
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
ProSonic Progress Report
The progress on the engine is steady, but it is slow in terms of how many goals of my 7-point plan are actually being accomplished. I have had a background layer for a good while now, and more recently the scripting language (although no MMF-like event editor to work with it.) The other day, I got the configuration file working so that key bindings, screen resolution settings, and other options can be set there instead of using hard-coded defaults.
I am planning to work on step #4 of my plan next. I have a few ideas of how I want to do it. I haven't decided which idea to go with yet. I will be making up my mind very soon though.
On the side, I've also been doing some extra things to the engine not part of the plan. The hope is that I can claim more than one front which to grab people's attention for the next major release which I'm planning for September. I'm sorry to say I won't have the 7-point plan completed by late July which is when SAGE '09 is.
As it currently stands, I'd say I'm about 40% complete in regards to where I want the engine to be by September. Keep in mind that I've done a lot of other things to the engine outside the 7-point plan, so it's different in more than seven ways.
I am planning to work on step #4 of my plan next. I have a few ideas of how I want to do it. I haven't decided which idea to go with yet. I will be making up my mind very soon though.
On the side, I've also been doing some extra things to the engine not part of the plan. The hope is that I can claim more than one front which to grab people's attention for the next major release which I'm planning for September. I'm sorry to say I won't have the 7-point plan completed by late July which is when SAGE '09 is.
As it currently stands, I'd say I'm about 40% complete in regards to where I want the engine to be by September. Keep in mind that I've done a lot of other things to the engine outside the 7-point plan, so it's different in more than seven ways.
Sunday, June 14, 2009
My Beef with EPR ProAudio Electronics
I have an Ensoniq DP/4+ effects processor that had some issues with the audio. Ensoniq is defunct now, so EPR ProAudio Electronics does all the work on Ensoniq's old products. I sent in my processor to EPR somewhere around October or November. I have called them at least five or six times since then, and everytime they kept telling me they were still working on it, that they needed a replacement board for it and such. These people never call me, I always have to call them to find out what's going on.
Well I called EPR one last time about four or five weeks ago, and they said it couldn't be fixed. That was fine. They asked if I wanted it scrapped or shipped back. I told them I wanted it shipped back. They understood and said they would fill out the appropriate paperwork.
I'm still waiting on my processor, and I'm not happy at all with these people. My dad has thought all along that they may have made the problem with the processor worse and just don't want to admit to it. I'm beginning to subscribe to that too, and this long waiting period to get my processor shipped back has be very suspicious. I'm thinking of calling them again tomorrow. EPR has had more than six months now, and to me that is uncalled for.
Well I called EPR one last time about four or five weeks ago, and they said it couldn't be fixed. That was fine. They asked if I wanted it scrapped or shipped back. I told them I wanted it shipped back. They understood and said they would fill out the appropriate paperwork.
I'm still waiting on my processor, and I'm not happy at all with these people. My dad has thought all along that they may have made the problem with the processor worse and just don't want to admit to it. I'm beginning to subscribe to that too, and this long waiting period to get my processor shipped back has be very suspicious. I'm thinking of calling them again tomorrow. EPR has had more than six months now, and to me that is uncalled for.
Wednesday, June 03, 2009
ProSonic Scripting Update
It's been a while since I wrote anything about my game engine on here. I have been working on the scripting support in ProSonic, and I'm very happy with the progress so far.
I think a second public release by August is a real possibility. How far along the scripting support is by then will be a major determining factor in regards to any potential release date.
I think a second public release by August is a real possibility. How far along the scripting support is by then will be a major determining factor in regards to any potential release date.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
I'm Miserable Right Now
Usually when I have back pain, it's my lower back. Right now, I'm in pain, and it's all through my upper back, neck, and right arm. I can't stand it. I was like this all day yesterday, and I'm like this again this morning. I woke up thinking some of my back troubles were over, but within 10 minutes of moving around, I was feeling the same way I felt yesterday. I don't understand what I did. I slept on my stomach like I usually do, and I realize that can lead to back pains, but I haven't felt anything like this in a very long time.
I'm thinking of calling in to work and telling them I'm staying home. I am absolutely useless right now. It hurts to even type. I can't sleep comfortably, I can't sit comfortably, I can't do anything.
I'm thinking of calling in to work and telling them I'm staying home. I am absolutely useless right now. It hurts to even type. I can't sleep comfortably, I can't sit comfortably, I can't do anything.
Saturday, May 23, 2009
Hoops and Yoyo
A few weeks ago, I was shopping for cards. I came across a whole section of cards featuring these two characters named Hoops and Yoyo. Hoops is a pink cat, and Yoyo is a green bunny. I was listening to the audio that many of these cards had, and I laughed like crazy! I bought one to have around in case someone's birthday comes around and I want to give them a funny card. The card says "you are lookin' fine!" There's much more audio that goes with it.
Anyway, I did a search on Hoops and Yoyo and found they have an official website, hoopsandyoyo.com. Oh my gosh, this website has some hilarious stuff on it! There's a ton of animations on the website that you can watch. Some of the animations I recommend are:
- Brushing Your Teeth
- I Love You!
- Tie One On, Dad!
- Lookin' Fiiiine (audio from the card I bought)
There are many more too. I don't get into the business of endorsing websites, but the Hoops and Yoyo website is one I must! Whoever invented these characters is pure genius. They're obviously geared towards a younger audience, but the people at Hallmark clearly left the door open for an older audience to enjoy them too. So check out the website!
Anyway, I did a search on Hoops and Yoyo and found they have an official website, hoopsandyoyo.com. Oh my gosh, this website has some hilarious stuff on it! There's a ton of animations on the website that you can watch. Some of the animations I recommend are:
- Brushing Your Teeth
- I Love You!
- Tie One On, Dad!
- Lookin' Fiiiine (audio from the card I bought)
There are many more too. I don't get into the business of endorsing websites, but the Hoops and Yoyo website is one I must! Whoever invented these characters is pure genius. They're obviously geared towards a younger audience, but the people at Hallmark clearly left the door open for an older audience to enjoy them too. So check out the website!
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Duke Nukem's Trying to Get Work
I'm sure most everyone has heard the word going around about 3D Realms at this point. I found this on one of the message boards I frequent. I think it's hilarious! Click the picture to enlarge it.
Regardless what happens and what is or isn't true, Duke Nukem will live on forever (no pun intended!)
Regardless what happens and what is or isn't true, Duke Nukem will live on forever (no pun intended!)
Friday, May 08, 2009
Wednesday, May 06, 2009
I Made It
I was really worried about possibly having to retake my Principles of Accounting II class. It was a hard class, and accounting is definitely not my strong point. I was worried all day long about what my grade would be. I knew it would either be a D or a C, and I need a C for the credits to count towards graduation.
I'm happy to be able to say that my spring semester is complete, with a C in the accounting class, and a B in my promotion class. My overall GPA stands at a 2.622. This is all good news because I have now completed all the credits I need for an associates degree in marketing! Now I just have to apply for graduation and take the exit exam.
I'll also have to begin seriously considering where I want to continue my education at. There are so many schools I have thought about, and I am not sure what would be best for me. My GPA will obviously limit some of my options, but I can accept that so long as it's high enough to give me at least some options.
I'm happy to be able to say that my spring semester is complete, with a C in the accounting class, and a B in my promotion class. My overall GPA stands at a 2.622. This is all good news because I have now completed all the credits I need for an associates degree in marketing! Now I just have to apply for graduation and take the exit exam.
I'll also have to begin seriously considering where I want to continue my education at. There are so many schools I have thought about, and I am not sure what would be best for me. My GPA will obviously limit some of my options, but I can accept that so long as it's high enough to give me at least some options.
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
HP Tech Support
Everyone knows that companies outsource their tech support to India. There's no secret about that. However, I was particularly annoyed about the help I got from HP.
Here's the thing: we got an Officejet 6500. It's a terrific machine, but it has issues when trying to print from QuickBooks Point of Sale. It will sometimes work, and other times it will act like it printed something and make a beep sound like it finished, even though it printed nothing. After playing with it for several hours, I found someone on the internet who had this issue and started using a Deskjet 990 driver with the Officejet 6500 to get it working properly. I tried it and found that it indeed made it print (we can't say for certain that there won't be any further problems, but so far, it appears to be working.)
It was suggested to me by my step-mom that I call HP tech support before making any changes to the computer. I agreed, and for the next 98 minutes and 57 seconds, I was on the telephone. I got this lady who was trying to help me. What I didn't realize at the time was it was her first day on the job, and as luck would have it, I was her first customer. Oh boy!
Her computer crashed about an hour into the session, so we had to start from the beginning by me giving my name, zip code, and other information. Each time I'd answer a question, it would take her a few minutes to go to the next step.
When we finally got to the part where she takes control of my computer, we tried several times to print a document. It never worked. Finally, she adds a new printer. She picks the Deskjet 990 (which was the default on the screen since I had previously added it.) We tried printing, and what do you know, it printed. Wow, I didn't see that coming. That was the solution. That. After all of that trouble, the bass-ackwards solution I already found was the conclusion of the session.
I just wasted 99 minutes of my life away talking to some lady from India for nothing. I didn't complain, I was very nice to her, particularly since it was her first day. Still, I felt quite annoyed that I did that for nothing.
So the conclusion I have come to is there must be something wrong with the HP Officejet 6500 driver. The driver is dated March 2009, so it's definitely new. I'm hoping they fix whatever is wrong, because I feel more than a little funny about using a driver that wasn't made specifically for it.
Here's the thing: we got an Officejet 6500. It's a terrific machine, but it has issues when trying to print from QuickBooks Point of Sale. It will sometimes work, and other times it will act like it printed something and make a beep sound like it finished, even though it printed nothing. After playing with it for several hours, I found someone on the internet who had this issue and started using a Deskjet 990 driver with the Officejet 6500 to get it working properly. I tried it and found that it indeed made it print (we can't say for certain that there won't be any further problems, but so far, it appears to be working.)
It was suggested to me by my step-mom that I call HP tech support before making any changes to the computer. I agreed, and for the next 98 minutes and 57 seconds, I was on the telephone. I got this lady who was trying to help me. What I didn't realize at the time was it was her first day on the job, and as luck would have it, I was her first customer. Oh boy!
Her computer crashed about an hour into the session, so we had to start from the beginning by me giving my name, zip code, and other information. Each time I'd answer a question, it would take her a few minutes to go to the next step.
When we finally got to the part where she takes control of my computer, we tried several times to print a document. It never worked. Finally, she adds a new printer. She picks the Deskjet 990 (which was the default on the screen since I had previously added it.) We tried printing, and what do you know, it printed. Wow, I didn't see that coming. That was the solution. That. After all of that trouble, the bass-ackwards solution I already found was the conclusion of the session.
I just wasted 99 minutes of my life away talking to some lady from India for nothing. I didn't complain, I was very nice to her, particularly since it was her first day. Still, I felt quite annoyed that I did that for nothing.
So the conclusion I have come to is there must be something wrong with the HP Officejet 6500 driver. The driver is dated March 2009, so it's definitely new. I'm hoping they fix whatever is wrong, because I feel more than a little funny about using a driver that wasn't made specifically for it.
Tuesday, April 07, 2009
Starfish Really Loves You
Starfish loves you! Starfish really loves you! Starfish also wants you to watch Charlie the Unicorn 3. Tell me, can you feel the love?
Starfish deserves his own video. Starfish will take over the world. Maybe. That would be great!
Starfish deserves his own video. Starfish will take over the world. Maybe. That would be great!
Thursday, April 02, 2009
Bomb Throwers Run Wild at OCR
Take a look at these two links:
- Overclocked ReMix
- Sonic Retro
The topic is on curse words. I started it at Sonic Retro first. After being fairly surprised at how many people didn't see things the way I did, I made a video on the subject. Although I didn't go into great detail in my video, I made the most important points I felt needed attention. After making the video, I decided to make a post on Overclocked ReMix about the same subject.
As you can tell, attitudes between the two message boards aren't even close. While some Sonic Retro members poked fun at my opinion, there really wasn't any malice towards me for it. Overclocked ReMix members made fun of my opinion in every possible way they could. I applaud Sonic Retro members for showing some class. Overclocked ReMiX once again doesn't live up to the same standard. For several years now, the OCR forums have become a place for spewing hate at those who they deem "n00bish" in any way, shape, or form. If they don't like what you post, they'll throw it right in your face. There are some classless Sonic Retro members, but the vast majority understand the meaning of respect.
I've been at OCR since 2003, and I've never seen it this bad. Apparently, the staff hasn't paying attention. The OCR staff should listen up for a change and get much stricter with their out-of-control members if they want OCR to be a welcoming place for newer members in the future. Otherwise, they'll get bad publicity like this. Hey, it's not doing harm to me. I actually love the attention my topic is getting. As I right this, 10% of my latest video's viewership comes directly from OCR. It's good for me, but it can't be good for them.
- Overclocked ReMix
- Sonic Retro
The topic is on curse words. I started it at Sonic Retro first. After being fairly surprised at how many people didn't see things the way I did, I made a video on the subject. Although I didn't go into great detail in my video, I made the most important points I felt needed attention. After making the video, I decided to make a post on Overclocked ReMix about the same subject.
As you can tell, attitudes between the two message boards aren't even close. While some Sonic Retro members poked fun at my opinion, there really wasn't any malice towards me for it. Overclocked ReMix members made fun of my opinion in every possible way they could. I applaud Sonic Retro members for showing some class. Overclocked ReMiX once again doesn't live up to the same standard. For several years now, the OCR forums have become a place for spewing hate at those who they deem "n00bish" in any way, shape, or form. If they don't like what you post, they'll throw it right in your face. There are some classless Sonic Retro members, but the vast majority understand the meaning of respect.
I've been at OCR since 2003, and I've never seen it this bad. Apparently, the staff hasn't paying attention. The OCR staff should listen up for a change and get much stricter with their out-of-control members if they want OCR to be a welcoming place for newer members in the future. Otherwise, they'll get bad publicity like this. Hey, it's not doing harm to me. I actually love the attention my topic is getting. As I right this, 10% of my latest video's viewership comes directly from OCR. It's good for me, but it can't be good for them.
Sunday, March 29, 2009
My Masterpiece
This is my masterpiece (sort of!) It's nothing truly special, but I still think it's kind of cool. I was asked to recreate the part on the left using the CNC mill, so I did. I am writing about it because although I've done stuff on the CNC mill before, this is the first part I've done entirely myself. I was also amazed that I got it right on the first cut! Designing things on the mill isn't always easy, because sometimes you mess something up and don't realize it until it starts cutting into the metal.Anyway, there it is for the world to see. It's a bracket for holding two exhaust pipes in place for race bikes.
Friday, February 20, 2009
Slightly Over the Line?
Does this add seem just a tad bit over the line? I thought it did. I understand it's common to try and convince people they need to look better than they normally do, but most ads I see don't go as far as to call the person ugly over something they can't change! We don't want a culture where women are getting plastic surgery just to look like the picture do we? I don't know, perhaps that's just me nitpicking, but I just didn't like this ad.
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Zombies Ahead
Somewhere in Texas is a sign that reads "zombies ahead." It's very real, although the sign has also been tampered with and is actually supposed to indicate road closure. Tampering with a portable road sign is a misdemeanor in Texas, but that didn't stop the person behind this. I don't encourage this sort of thing, but I have to admit I found this rather amusing! Though this is coming from someone who's worst act was helping a friend steal a construction cone.(Source)
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
My Voice is Shot
Saturday night, I played music for a decent size crowd. I thought we did well overall, and it was certainly the kind of crowd I enjoy -- young people. I remember when we started off "Celebration", I could hear several people get excited. The response was much the same for "Jump". Many of the songs we played went over really well with the crowd.
What didn't go over well was my voice. I started losing it on the first set. By the time we got to "Lights", I could barely sing. My voice came and went all night, but I wasn't too thrilled about it. By night's end, I could barely talk without it hurting.
Initially I thought my voice problems were due to me trying to sing over the sound, but today's Wednesday and practice is canceled because I still can't use my voice. On top of that, I have a cold. So I think me losing my voice that night perhaps was a hint of my cold coming on. I'm hating it right now. I cough and hack every so often. My nose is running like crazy, especially at night and in the mornings. I'll be glad when I get better.
What didn't go over well was my voice. I started losing it on the first set. By the time we got to "Lights", I could barely sing. My voice came and went all night, but I wasn't too thrilled about it. By night's end, I could barely talk without it hurting.
Initially I thought my voice problems were due to me trying to sing over the sound, but today's Wednesday and practice is canceled because I still can't use my voice. On top of that, I have a cold. So I think me losing my voice that night perhaps was a hint of my cold coming on. I'm hating it right now. I cough and hack every so often. My nose is running like crazy, especially at night and in the mornings. I'll be glad when I get better.
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