Rock Out with Your, um, Band Out
Dec 30, 2:19 am
I don’t have Rock Band. What I have instead is a humble apartment, which I am fond of because it’s perfectly jinx-sized. Unfortunately the downside to jinx-sized is there’s not a whole lot of storage available. No closets except the one in my room which is literally stuffed to the ceiling with all my electronics boxes. What I’m getting at …
Dec 30, 2:19 am
I don’t have Rock Band. What I have instead is a humble apartment, which I am fond of because it’s perfectly jinx-sized. Unfortunately the downside to jinx-sized is there’s not a whole lot of storage available. No closets except the one in my room which is literally stuffed to the ceiling with all my electronics boxes. What I’m getting at …
Fun And Learning Break the World
Dec 13, 3:00 am
When I think of “educational games” I always kind of wrinkle my nose because that doesn’t sound like any fun. Then of course I remember Number Munchers and Oregon Trail, both of which occupied most of my third grade and both of which I remember fondly--I get that far-off look, sigh a little, and settle my chin onto my hand …
Dec 13, 3:00 am
When I think of “educational games” I always kind of wrinkle my nose because that doesn’t sound like any fun. Then of course I remember Number Munchers and Oregon Trail, both of which occupied most of my third grade and both of which I remember fondly--I get that far-off look, sigh a little, and settle my chin onto my hand …
Welcome to the new Frag Dolls Website
Nov 20, 2:02 pm
If you look around, very closely, you might see one or two small changes to the Frag Dolls website. After several months of planning out our dream website and then working with some amazing developers to make it happen, we’re stoked to be able to welcome you to the new FragDolls.com. We’ve had our original website for 3 years since …
Nov 20, 2:02 pm
If you look around, very closely, you might see one or two small changes to the Frag Dolls website. After several months of planning out our dream website and then working with some amazing developers to make it happen, we’re stoked to be able to welcome you to the new FragDolls.com. We’ve had our original website for 3 years since …
Spoiled Rotten and Loving It
Oct 31, 2:22 am
As a general rule the Frag Dolls are very fortunate. We get paid to play games and travel around the country (and occasionally beyond) to attend all kinds of game-related events. We get free Ubisoft games, free XPS laptops from Dell, free Comcast internet from Game Invasion, and free external hard drives from Seagate. Yes, it’s a pretty sweet gig. …
Oct 31, 2:22 am
As a general rule the Frag Dolls are very fortunate. We get paid to play games and travel around the country (and occasionally beyond) to attend all kinds of game-related events. We get free Ubisoft games, free XPS laptops from Dell, free Comcast internet from Game Invasion, and free external hard drives from Seagate. Yes, it’s a pretty sweet gig. …
Disguised as a Civilian
Oct 16, 7:10 am
Last weekend, for what might be the first time since I became a Frag Doll, I treated myself to a little gamer vacation and caught a flight to Seattle to check out the World Cyber Games. I love Seattle, and I love gaming, so really that makes it a perfect combination. I also love visiting my friends and having some …
Oct 16, 7:10 am
Last weekend, for what might be the first time since I became a Frag Doll, I treated myself to a little gamer vacation and caught a flight to Seattle to check out the World Cyber Games. I love Seattle, and I love gaming, so really that makes it a perfect combination. I also love visiting my friends and having some …
JRPG-o-Rama
Sep 19, 7:09 am
I’m a fan of bizarre jRPG games with unlikely costumes and swords that weigh more than my house. I like plots that give people a blank look when I try to explain them. I like classic battle systems and phoenix downs and impressive names for simple moves. I also like my Xbox 360. When Enchanted Arms came out it was …
Sep 19, 7:09 am
I’m a fan of bizarre jRPG games with unlikely costumes and swords that weigh more than my house. I like plots that give people a blank look when I try to explain them. I like classic battle systems and phoenix downs and impressive names for simple moves. I also like my Xbox 360. When Enchanted Arms came out it was …
PCXL
Sep 04, 7:08 am
Back in July PC Gamer released a video podcast behind-the-scenes of our photoshoot for a very special issue (and I don’t mean that in the shortbus sense) of PC Gamer. Everyone got a chance to see us FAR outside our normal habitat which, if we were in a zoo, would consist mainly of a couch, tv, and mini fridge. Look, …
Sep 04, 7:08 am
Back in July PC Gamer released a video podcast behind-the-scenes of our photoshoot for a very special issue (and I don’t mean that in the shortbus sense) of PC Gamer. Everyone got a chance to see us FAR outside our normal habitat which, if we were in a zoo, would consist mainly of a couch, tv, and mini fridge. Look, …
QuakeCon
Aug 15, 7:07 am
I tried to think of a snappy title for this blog, but wrinkling my forehead didn’t coax forth any measure of genius so I’ll settle for one that is at least semi-descriptive. I attended my first QuakeCon at the beginning of the month, and got a good look inside one of the definitive PC professional tournaments. I didn’t compete - …
Aug 15, 7:07 am
I tried to think of a snappy title for this blog, but wrinkling my forehead didn’t coax forth any measure of genius so I’ll settle for one that is at least semi-descriptive. I attended my first QuakeCon at the beginning of the month, and got a good look inside one of the definitive PC professional tournaments. I didn’t compete - …
Dell and the Art of Kicking Butt
Jul 20, 7:06 am
There have been big happenings in Frag Doll headquarters. Rumors may have leaked out over the past few months, but today the secret is out. The Frag Dolls are proud (thrilled, ecstatic, foaming at the mouth) to announce our new sponsorship agreement with Dell. We first worked with Dell at CES earlier this year and it was love at first …
Jul 20, 7:06 am
There have been big happenings in Frag Doll headquarters. Rumors may have leaked out over the past few months, but today the secret is out. The Frag Dolls are proud (thrilled, ecstatic, foaming at the mouth) to announce our new sponsorship agreement with Dell. We first worked with Dell at CES earlier this year and it was love at first …
Ask a Doll: Jinxed Edition Vol. 1
Jun 22, 7:05 am
It’s time for the newest edition of the Ask a Doll blog, and this time I’m the one answering your questions. Tremble in fear, questers… questioners...inquisitors? Zork: Grand Inquisitor was a fantastic game. No, really. There was a spell to turn clear things purple, and willfully avoid sending spirits through time. Have any of the Frag Dolls picked up tabletop …
Jun 22, 7:05 am
It’s time for the newest edition of the Ask a Doll blog, and this time I’m the one answering your questions. Tremble in fear, questers… questioners...inquisitors? Zork: Grand Inquisitor was a fantastic game. No, really. There was a spell to turn clear things purple, and willfully avoid sending spirits through time. Have any of the Frag Dolls picked up tabletop …
Practically Evil
Jun 12, 7:04 am
Some people think video games are just a diversion, but if you ask me they show us a lot about ourselves. Mirror of the soul, if you want to get poetic about it. How you act in a world without consequence says a lot about your nature. Mine is chaotic neutral, to put it in roleplaying terms. What what means …
Jun 12, 7:04 am
Some people think video games are just a diversion, but if you ask me they show us a lot about ourselves. Mirror of the soul, if you want to get poetic about it. How you act in a world without consequence says a lot about your nature. Mine is chaotic neutral, to put it in roleplaying terms. What what means …
Finding New Uses
May 22, 7:03 am
I just moved into a new apartment with the most basic tools of independent survival: mattress, desk, sumo bag, iPod, Xbox 360, clothes, books, and HDTV. That was the contents of my house on day 1. The rest was coming the next day or would need to be bought. I had no furniture; I have always previously used whatever furniture …
May 22, 7:03 am
I just moved into a new apartment with the most basic tools of independent survival: mattress, desk, sumo bag, iPod, Xbox 360, clothes, books, and HDTV. That was the contents of my house on day 1. The rest was coming the next day or would need to be bought. I had no furniture; I have always previously used whatever furniture …
The Tubes Stop in Virginia
May 02, 7:01 am
This last weekend was one of the best examples in the world that people can have real, concrete friendships based over the internet. It is true that in many cases the anonymity offered by a keyboard and a network connection is an invitation to shed human decency; but it becomes increasingly clear to me that those people are the minority. …
May 02, 7:01 am
This last weekend was one of the best examples in the world that people can have real, concrete friendships based over the internet. It is true that in many cases the anonymity offered by a keyboard and a network connection is an invitation to shed human decency; but it becomes increasingly clear to me that those people are the minority. …
NYC LAN Party Recap!
May 01, 8:48 pm
A night of gaming and GRAW 2 - oh, how wonderful it was! Thanks to Gamegeezers and NYC LAN, it was an amazing night of gaming. I got to see some new and familiar faces at the place. I was not expecting there to be a any hardcore GRAW 2 fans but I did encounter some. Game Ov3r and Twizm …
May 01, 8:48 pm
A night of gaming and GRAW 2 - oh, how wonderful it was! Thanks to Gamegeezers and NYC LAN, it was an amazing night of gaming. I got to see some new and familiar faces at the place. I was not expecting there to be a any hardcore GRAW 2 fans but I did encounter some. Game Ov3r and Twizm …
Taking a Trip with the Waybackmachine
Apr 24, 8:46 pm
Its official - Calyber and I are no longer the new Frag Dolls on the Blog. Its been over a year since we were chosen to be America’s Next Top Frag Dolls (tee hee hee, I’ve always wanted to say that) and I felt the need to take a look back at the Frag Dolls when they first came out. …
Apr 24, 8:46 pm
Its official - Calyber and I are no longer the new Frag Dolls on the Blog. Its been over a year since we were chosen to be America’s Next Top Frag Dolls (tee hee hee, I’ve always wanted to say that) and I felt the need to take a look back at the Frag Dolls when they first came out. …
Ramblings on DRM
Apr 13, 7:00 am
Where to begin with DRM? For those who somehow aren’t familiar with it, DRM stands for Digital Rights Management and it’s a way for companies to control their media, especially reproduction and access. Copyright protection has been a concern for companies as long as copying has been around. People copying their friend’s cassette tapes, for example, was an early form …
Apr 13, 7:00 am
Where to begin with DRM? For those who somehow aren’t familiar with it, DRM stands for Digital Rights Management and it’s a way for companies to control their media, especially reproduction and access. Copyright protection has been a concern for companies as long as copying has been around. People copying their friend’s cassette tapes, for example, was an early form …
I Changed My Mind
Mar 14, 7:00 am
I’m a big girl. Sometimes when I’m wrong about something, I have to admit it. Good luck actually debating me into submission because my outer hull reflects logic projectiles--only cute fuzzy things like I CAN HAS CHEEZBURGER to weaken my mental reinforcements. ... See? Look. I just spent 15 minutes there and forgot to keep writing. ... Where was I? …
Mar 14, 7:00 am
I’m a big girl. Sometimes when I’m wrong about something, I have to admit it. Good luck actually debating me into submission because my outer hull reflects logic projectiles--only cute fuzzy things like I CAN HAS CHEEZBURGER to weaken my mental reinforcements. ... See? Look. I just spent 15 minutes there and forgot to keep writing. ... Where was I? …
AIAS In The Hole
Feb 16, 6:57 am
Sometimes I realize how lucky I am. Last week was one of those times. The Frag Dolls have been doing a lot with Game Invasion, Comcast’s gaming channel, as you may have seen over the last few months. We’ve visited development studios to interview the faces behind the games, and most recently we did some on-the-floor interviews with other industry …
Feb 16, 6:57 am
Sometimes I realize how lucky I am. Last week was one of those times. The Frag Dolls have been doing a lot with Game Invasion, Comcast’s gaming channel, as you may have seen over the last few months. We’ve visited development studios to interview the faces behind the games, and most recently we did some on-the-floor interviews with other industry …
After the Storm
Jan 22, 6:55 am
Perhaps this wrap-up is a bit late, but I plead intimidation at the idea of writing a single blog to encompass the entirety of CES. It’s simply too large, like trying to cram a water buffalo into a teacup. There’s one particular aspect, though, that I feel I can tackle with a reasonable chance of success: that is, WSVG. We …
Jan 22, 6:55 am
Perhaps this wrap-up is a bit late, but I plead intimidation at the idea of writing a single blog to encompass the entirety of CES. It’s simply too large, like trying to cram a water buffalo into a teacup. There’s one particular aspect, though, that I feel I can tackle with a reasonable chance of success: that is, WSVG. We …
Hearing Voices
Jan 07, 6:54 am
I recently got a (new) supercomputer… the kind we nerds will invest in for our mid-life crises instead of Ferraris. More about that later. I have all the time in the world to tease you with images of computerotica--hardware spread invitingly across satin sheets of a most indecent color. For now I’ll restrain myself to telling you it’s quadcore. Then …
Jan 07, 6:54 am
I recently got a (new) supercomputer… the kind we nerds will invest in for our mid-life crises instead of Ferraris. More about that later. I have all the time in the world to tease you with images of computerotica--hardware spread invitingly across satin sheets of a most indecent color. For now I’ll restrain myself to telling you it’s quadcore. Then …
Advent in Snowdriftland
Dec 16, 6:53 am
This came to me a few days ago, but it’s taken me a while to actually get to writing about, for reasons you’ll soon experience for yourself. It’s a viral marketing initiative in the form of an online advent calendar from Nintendo. You get to play a new level of this online flash game each day of December leading up …
Dec 16, 6:53 am
This came to me a few days ago, but it’s taken me a while to actually get to writing about, for reasons you’ll soon experience for yourself. It’s a viral marketing initiative in the form of an online advent calendar from Nintendo. You get to play a new level of this online flash game each day of December leading up …
One More Daddy Warbucks
Dec 07, 6:25 am
A staple ingredient to an online gamer’s lifestyle is our internet connection. Just as umbilical cords provide nourishment when we’re in the womb, those thin cables plugged in the back of our consoles and PCs feed us packets, one after another, that connect us to other gamers near and far. It’s a source of greatest comfort and, when it misbehaves, …
Dec 07, 6:25 am
A staple ingredient to an online gamer’s lifestyle is our internet connection. Just as umbilical cords provide nourishment when we’re in the womb, those thin cables plugged in the back of our consoles and PCs feed us packets, one after another, that connect us to other gamers near and far. It’s a source of greatest comfort and, when it misbehaves, …
Hit It!
Nov 16, 6:52 am
This past weekend, it seems every savvy gamer scrambled for a copy of Gears of War and got in on the testosteriffic action. Big dudes with big armor and guns with chainsaws. YEAH! Me? Oh, I played Viva Pinata. There’s something in the shameless use of colors and over-the-top sugar of this title that really appeals to me. Even the …
Nov 16, 6:52 am
This past weekend, it seems every savvy gamer scrambled for a copy of Gears of War and got in on the testosteriffic action. Big dudes with big armor and guns with chainsaws. YEAH! Me? Oh, I played Viva Pinata. There’s something in the shameless use of colors and over-the-top sugar of this title that really appeals to me. Even the …
Dropping Blocks the Analog Way
Oct 25, 6:50 am
Today I salute a game that remains one of the only PSP titles that ever had me hooked, and has now come to my white gaming zen machine. I am, of course, referring to Lumines. It seems like a simple concept, right? Blocks of 4 fall, and you have to make blocks of solid colors in order to clear them …
Oct 25, 6:50 am
Today I salute a game that remains one of the only PSP titles that ever had me hooked, and has now come to my white gaming zen machine. I am, of course, referring to Lumines. It seems like a simple concept, right? Blocks of 4 fall, and you have to make blocks of solid colors in order to clear them …
Wii Raise Our Left Hand
Oct 12, 6:48 am
I had the chance to touch a Wii controller yesterday. I didn’t get to see it in action at E3, so while I pretended to be nonplussed I’ve really been crying inwardly for the last several months. That has ended. I have taken up the sword. I also watched a lot of Ubisoft people make fools out of themselves playing …
Oct 12, 6:48 am
I had the chance to touch a Wii controller yesterday. I didn’t get to see it in action at E3, so while I pretended to be nonplussed I’ve really been crying inwardly for the last several months. That has ended. I have taken up the sword. I also watched a lot of Ubisoft people make fools out of themselves playing …
Enchanted Arms: A Primer
Sep 16, 6:47 am
Since Enchanted Arms came out, my sleep, work, and social life have all suffered. I spent Labor Day weekend on a couch instead of out backpacking. I was a wreck when I traveled home for a wedding and had no 360 for my fix. I’ve lost sleep every night to stay up playing. I’ve just finished it and I highly …
Sep 16, 6:47 am
Since Enchanted Arms came out, my sleep, work, and social life have all suffered. I spent Labor Day weekend on a couch instead of out backpacking. I was a wreck when I traveled home for a wedding and had no 360 for my fix. I’ve lost sleep every night to stay up playing. I’ve just finished it and I highly …
PAX Photo Blog
Aug 30, 6:37 am
PAX is the same every year, except bigger, and no two gamers have the same experience. Some spend all their time in the BYOC or Tabletop. Others mix in panels, concerts, tournaments, exhibition hall, or the Omegathon. The gentlemen at Penny Arcade have had my respect for years and years, but every year I love them a little more. Here’s …
Aug 30, 6:37 am
PAX is the same every year, except bigger, and no two gamers have the same experience. Some spend all their time in the BYOC or Tabletop. Others mix in panels, concerts, tournaments, exhibition hall, or the Omegathon. The gentlemen at Penny Arcade have had my respect for years and years, but every year I love them a little more. Here’s …
End of an Expo
Aug 09, 8:32 am
Since I heard “the news” about E3 I’ve been intending to write about it. The trouble is, I’m not sure what to write. There are so many people who heard about it and said, “Yeah, ok,” that I feel as if I’m old-fashioned for wanting it to stay. Like an old woman chasing whippersnappers off the lawn and muttering about …
Aug 09, 8:32 am
Since I heard “the news” about E3 I’ve been intending to write about it. The trouble is, I’m not sure what to write. There are so many people who heard about it and said, “Yeah, ok,” that I feel as if I’m old-fashioned for wanting it to stay. Like an old woman chasing whippersnappers off the lawn and muttering about …
I Once Stayed Up All Night
Jul 21, 8:29 am
More than once, actually. I counted it as a badge of honor when I went to bed sometime after the sun came up (the only way I ever saw sunrise anyway) and rose around evening. That was my routine as a gamer. I preferred staying up at night, when no one would bother me and I didn’t have to put …
Jul 21, 8:29 am
More than once, actually. I counted it as a badge of honor when I went to bed sometime after the sun came up (the only way I ever saw sunrise anyway) and rose around evening. That was my routine as a gamer. I preferred staying up at night, when no one would bother me and I didn’t have to put …
Let There Be Lite!
Jun 26, 8:28 am
Back in January I sold my original DS. There was a very sorrowful blog written about the whole business, but the summary is this: I ordered a white DS on import, which I later learned was backordered. A few weeks later the DS Lite was announced so I decided to wait until March and get one. Then in March I …
Jun 26, 8:28 am
Back in January I sold my original DS. There was a very sorrowful blog written about the whole business, but the summary is this: I ordered a white DS on import, which I later learned was backordered. A few weeks later the DS Lite was announced so I decided to wait until March and get one. Then in March I …
Olympic…Games?
Jun 02, 8:26 am
Like many other gamers, I was recently pointed to an article about GGL (Global Gaming League) trying to get videogames into the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games. I was all set to write a cynical blog about this, and struck up a conversation with Rhoulette and our friend, who we like to call “Phast Phil.” He’s a world class track star …
Jun 02, 8:26 am
Like many other gamers, I was recently pointed to an article about GGL (Global Gaming League) trying to get videogames into the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games. I was all set to write a cynical blog about this, and struck up a conversation with Rhoulette and our friend, who we like to call “Phast Phil.” He’s a world class track star …
Hurry Up and Wait
May 22, 8:25 am
California is blessed with a certain variety of terrain. I find myself in the enviable situation of being able to drive an hour or two to a nice beach, or three hours in the other direction to go snowboarding. Additionally, I can go snowboarding well into April. As I write this (several weeks after my trip), I think Squaw Valley …
May 22, 8:25 am
California is blessed with a certain variety of terrain. I find myself in the enviable situation of being able to drive an hour or two to a nice beach, or three hours in the other direction to go snowboarding. Additionally, I can go snowboarding well into April. As I write this (several weeks after my trip), I think Squaw Valley …
Casting Call: Renelly’s Experience
May 01, 8:24 am
Along with 7 other killer candidates, Renelly joined us at the THX studios for our crazy awesome Casting Call. There were cat fights, pillow fights, mario kart fights, and old-fashioned brass knuckle fights. Ok, well maybe not. But there were definitely mario kart fights. It was a great time, and each of the candidates has written a blog for us …
May 01, 8:24 am
Along with 7 other killer candidates, Renelly joined us at the THX studios for our crazy awesome Casting Call. There were cat fights, pillow fights, mario kart fights, and old-fashioned brass knuckle fights. Ok, well maybe not. But there were definitely mario kart fights. It was a great time, and each of the candidates has written a blog for us …
Barefood in the Kitchen
Apr 11, 8:21 am
Every now and again I’ll be playing a game and some guy will come along who doesn’t think games are the sort of thing I ought to be focusing on. More often, they tell me to go to bed because I sound like an 8 year old boy, but on occasion I do get the odd request for a sandwich. …
Apr 11, 8:21 am
Every now and again I’ll be playing a game and some guy will come along who doesn’t think games are the sort of thing I ought to be focusing on. More often, they tell me to go to bed because I sound like an 8 year old boy, but on occasion I do get the odd request for a sandwich. …
Good News All At Once
Mar 27, 8:20 am
When it rains, it pours… that seems to happen with things both good and bad. A couple days ago we announced the 8 final candidates under consideration for the open spot on our team. I’ve met a number of these girls over the several months we accepted applications, and every one of them is amazing. Our new teammate is going …
Mar 27, 8:20 am
When it rains, it pours… that seems to happen with things both good and bad. A couple days ago we announced the 8 final candidates under consideration for the open spot on our team. I’ve met a number of these girls over the several months we accepted applications, and every one of them is amazing. Our new teammate is going …
Birth of a Gaming Toaster
Mar 13, 8:17 am
For months now I have gone on and on about how my new computer is going to be so wonderful and oh how I can’t wait to play Oblivion on it and blah blah blah. But when asked how I liked my new computer I was forced to admit that, in fact, I didn’t have it yet. It was still …
Mar 13, 8:17 am
For months now I have gone on and on about how my new computer is going to be so wonderful and oh how I can’t wait to play Oblivion on it and blah blah blah. But when asked how I liked my new computer I was forced to admit that, in fact, I didn’t have it yet. It was still …
Good About Bad Movies
Mar 02, 8:16 am
In the course of my life I’ve met a lot of people with impeccable taste in movies; people who can speak knowledgably about some of the most significant films of our time. While they do, I nod politely and stare over their shoulder and wish stuff would explode to a sweet soundtrack. I won’t pretend I have impeccable taste in …
Mar 02, 8:16 am
In the course of my life I’ve met a lot of people with impeccable taste in movies; people who can speak knowledgably about some of the most significant films of our time. While they do, I nod politely and stare over their shoulder and wish stuff would explode to a sweet soundtrack. I won’t pretend I have impeccable taste in …
The Bad Thing
Feb 20, 8:15 am
I’ve done a terrible thing. Well, actually it’s not terrible. Had it gone according to plan, I would be a very happy girl right now. But it didn’t go to plan, and now I’m a sad panda until it’s all set right again. Let me tell you a story. n the Before Time, the Long Long Ago, there was a …
Feb 20, 8:15 am
I’ve done a terrible thing. Well, actually it’s not terrible. Had it gone according to plan, I would be a very happy girl right now. But it didn’t go to plan, and now I’m a sad panda until it’s all set right again. Let me tell you a story. n the Before Time, the Long Long Ago, there was a …
Podcast: Listen for Monkeys
Feb 08, 8:10 am
It’s been a while since we did our last podcast - since before Christmas, actually. But there’s a new one out, and if you’ve listened to our previous episodes you’ll notice a few differences. As I mentioned in a previous entry, we’ve got music now. Not game music, even though it’s pretty sweet when we can get it, but our …
Feb 08, 8:10 am
It’s been a while since we did our last podcast - since before Christmas, actually. But there’s a new one out, and if you’ve listened to our previous episodes you’ll notice a few differences. As I mentioned in a previous entry, we’ve got music now. Not game music, even though it’s pretty sweet when we can get it, but our …
A Chink in My Armor
Jan 26, 8:08 am
We all know by now that I’m unspeakably awesome at games, and if I can’t beat you, I will at least pretend to do so. I don’t think I’m bad, but neither am I noteworthy. You know those people who are always at the top of round boards? I’m not one of them. But over time I’ve also become moderately …
Jan 26, 8:08 am
We all know by now that I’m unspeakably awesome at games, and if I can’t beat you, I will at least pretend to do so. I don’t think I’m bad, but neither am I noteworthy. You know those people who are always at the top of round boards? I’m not one of them. But over time I’ve also become moderately …
Spoiled So Soon
Jan 07, 8:06 am
I play my Xbox 360 at 720p on my HDTV, and sometimes 1080i on my projector. Thank you, Microsoft, for bundling component cables with my system. The Xbox 360 and HDTV is a powerful combination. Perhaps more powerful than the average person believes. I have been actively playing my Xbox 360 since shortly after Christmas. I don’t count a few …
Jan 07, 8:06 am
I play my Xbox 360 at 720p on my HDTV, and sometimes 1080i on my projector. Thank you, Microsoft, for bundling component cables with my system. The Xbox 360 and HDTV is a powerful combination. Perhaps more powerful than the average person believes. I have been actively playing my Xbox 360 since shortly after Christmas. I don’t count a few …
New Years Challenge: Finish Your Old Games First
Dec 29, 8:05 am
This is not an original challenge. I have seen several forms of it around before, but this one is for the Frag Doll community, because we’re tight like that. See, I’m not big on New Years Resolutions for a couple reasons. One, they never last more than a week (for me, anyway). Two, since I am flawlessly awesome there’s very …
Dec 29, 8:05 am
This is not an original challenge. I have seen several forms of it around before, but this one is for the Frag Doll community, because we’re tight like that. See, I’m not big on New Years Resolutions for a couple reasons. One, they never last more than a week (for me, anyway). Two, since I am flawlessly awesome there’s very …
Podcast: Child’s Play
Dec 20, 8:02 am
Every year, around Christmas, we tend to get a little sentimental. We try to help people we don’t know and make their lives a little better. At the place I work there’s a christmas tree in the lobby, with gift wishes from kids and underprivileged adults. People take the cards, buy gifts for people they don’t know, and hope someone …
Dec 20, 8:02 am
Every year, around Christmas, we tend to get a little sentimental. We try to help people we don’t know and make their lives a little better. At the place I work there’s a christmas tree in the lobby, with gift wishes from kids and underprivileged adults. People take the cards, buy gifts for people they don’t know, and hope someone …
Finishing It Right
Nov 28, 7:54 am
Once upon a time, way back in the days of 1989, there was a princess forced to marry an evil vizier, and a prince who braved the dungeons of the palace to save her. Fourteen years later, Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time hit shelves and won an entirely new audience with its charms. I was one of them. …
Nov 28, 7:54 am
Once upon a time, way back in the days of 1989, there was a princess forced to marry an evil vizier, and a prince who braved the dungeons of the palace to save her. Fourteen years later, Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time hit shelves and won an entirely new audience with its charms. I was one of them. …
Evil Call at the 11th Hour
Nov 19, 7:53 am
Like most gamers, I got the evil call from GameStop, notifying me that I will not be getting my Xbox 360 at launch, even though I pre-ordered in June. As I recall, pre-orders had filled up at the EB Games I first tried to pre-order from, so I had to go down the line until I found a store with …
Nov 19, 7:53 am
Like most gamers, I got the evil call from GameStop, notifying me that I will not be getting my Xbox 360 at launch, even though I pre-ordered in June. As I recall, pre-orders had filled up at the EB Games I first tried to pre-order from, so I had to go down the line until I found a store with …
Gamers Are So Evil
Nov 05, 7:52 am
When I started writing, I wanted to write a witty and cunning response to this editorial that said Halo 2 and dating are incompatible. As a gamer AND as a woman I was offended by the ill-considered judgements made by a narrow-minded college student who wanted to blame a game for her boyfriend’s inattention to her. I did write an …
Nov 05, 7:52 am
When I started writing, I wanted to write a witty and cunning response to this editorial that said Halo 2 and dating are incompatible. As a gamer AND as a woman I was offended by the ill-considered judgements made by a narrow-minded college student who wanted to blame a game for her boyfriend’s inattention to her. I did write an …
Plugins - They’re Shocking!
Oct 28, 7:46 am
Morrowind. I bought the game on a whim, convinced by the box that the publishers believed in it enough to invest in its presentation. I even forked over the extra money for the collector’s edition. I’ve never regretted that decision. One of the things that makes Morrowind so amazing is the freedom of being set loose in a world with …
Oct 28, 7:46 am
Morrowind. I bought the game on a whim, convinced by the box that the publishers believed in it enough to invest in its presentation. I even forked over the extra money for the collector’s edition. I’ve never regretted that decision. One of the things that makes Morrowind so amazing is the freedom of being set loose in a world with …
The Line Blurs a Little
Oct 17, 7:38 am
There’s a very clear distinction between PC games and console games. PCs are absolutely superior in a number of respects: upgradability, graphics power (until the Xbox 360 comes out, anyway), freedom, and modding. Consoles have the disadvantage in all those areas, but they’ve still got their strong points: affordability, ease of use, and platforming awesomeness. Don’t argue with me on …
Oct 17, 7:38 am
There’s a very clear distinction between PC games and console games. PCs are absolutely superior in a number of respects: upgradability, graphics power (until the Xbox 360 comes out, anyway), freedom, and modding. Consoles have the disadvantage in all those areas, but they’ve still got their strong points: affordability, ease of use, and platforming awesomeness. Don’t argue with me on …
Planes and Trains
Oct 08, 7:36 am
This is not a “poor me” entry about traveling. It’s about a pair of episodes I had during my latest trips - little things that stayed with me. The first involves an airport and a PSP; the second involves a train and a DS. I was in the airport, standing in a line to get on the plane. In front …
Oct 08, 7:36 am
This is not a “poor me” entry about traveling. It’s about a pair of episodes I had during my latest trips - little things that stayed with me. The first involves an airport and a PSP; the second involves a train and a DS. I was in the airport, standing in a line to get on the plane. In front …
Foxy Lady
Aug 16, 7:20 am
Where do I begin? There’s a movement by a lot of female gamers, a call for more realistic female game avatars. Characters like Lara Croft and the DOA girls are held up as shining examples of character design gone wrong; bizarre fantasies of game developers who have no idea what a real woman is. This movement is, of course, an …
Aug 16, 7:20 am
Where do I begin? There’s a movement by a lot of female gamers, a call for more realistic female game avatars. Characters like Lara Croft and the DOA girls are held up as shining examples of character design gone wrong; bizarre fantasies of game developers who have no idea what a real woman is. This movement is, of course, an …
PsychoDO
Jul 23, 7:17 am
It’s been a long time coming. I have already sung praises to anyone I come into contact with, and I am about to do so again. This particular rambling involves a relatively new entry to the platformer scene which, while not reinventing the genre, nevertheless has succeeded in doing everything perfectly and become one of my favorite games. I’m talking, …
Jul 23, 7:17 am
It’s been a long time coming. I have already sung praises to anyone I come into contact with, and I am about to do so again. This particular rambling involves a relatively new entry to the platformer scene which, while not reinventing the genre, nevertheless has succeeded in doing everything perfectly and become one of my favorite games. I’m talking, …
My Feet Hurt
Jul 06, 7:12 am
I did a lot of walking in the last two days, and I’ve come to a decision. Video game characters have it easy. They don’t carry heavy backpacks or tramp through bloodthirsty bushes. They don’t get sunburned or eaten by mosquitos. They don’t even have to wear sensible footwear because there’s always a tidy path. I just got back from …
Jul 06, 7:12 am
I did a lot of walking in the last two days, and I’ve come to a decision. Video game characters have it easy. They don’t carry heavy backpacks or tramp through bloodthirsty bushes. They don’t get sunburned or eaten by mosquitos. They don’t even have to wear sensible footwear because there’s always a tidy path. I just got back from …
The Fuzzballs of Total Devastation
Jun 17, 7:09 am
I got back from E3 in time to kitten-sit for my neighbors while they were out of town. This period, which will be called The Time of the Kittens in history books, was to last from May 25 to June 5. That, as we all know, is 11 days. 11 fuzzy days. I was worried, at first. I had a …
Jun 17, 7:09 am
I got back from E3 in time to kitten-sit for my neighbors while they were out of town. This period, which will be called The Time of the Kittens in history books, was to last from May 25 to June 5. That, as we all know, is 11 days. 11 fuzzy days. I was worried, at first. I had a …
So. E3. Wicked.
May 23, 7:07 am
We’re finished with E3, after three hectic days of tournaments, cameras, flashing lights, and the company of other gamers. It’s a crazy time of the year for the gaming industry, and this year was no different. I made it down there Monday evening, in time for Microsoft’s Xbox 360 conference, and that was quite a show. While I openly dislike …
May 23, 7:07 am
We’re finished with E3, after three hectic days of tournaments, cameras, flashing lights, and the company of other gamers. It’s a crazy time of the year for the gaming industry, and this year was no different. I made it down there Monday evening, in time for Microsoft’s Xbox 360 conference, and that was quite a show. While I openly dislike …
10 Steps to the Next 10 Steps
May 06, 7:06 am
I know it hurts to breathe. It’s not an injury. Keep going. Tired doesn’t mean you can stop. It’s not that far. It could be worse. Next time will be easier, but only if you push. Such are the encouragements I repeat to myself like a chant, as I round the next landmark in the park. See, I’ve taken up …
May 06, 7:06 am
I know it hurts to breathe. It’s not an injury. Keep going. Tired doesn’t mean you can stop. It’s not that far. It could be worse. Next time will be easier, but only if you push. Such are the encouragements I repeat to myself like a chant, as I round the next landmark in the park. See, I’ve taken up …
The Challenge of Great Justice
Apr 18, 7:05 am
I’m back from the first of our appearances at the Best Buy Electronic Gaming Championship (that’s a lot of caps. from here on out I will refer to it as the EGC) It was a lot of fun. I don’t know what I was expecting, but the event surpassed any such expectations I might have had. First off, Seppuku and …
Apr 18, 7:05 am
I’m back from the first of our appearances at the Best Buy Electronic Gaming Championship (that’s a lot of caps. from here on out I will refer to it as the EGC) It was a lot of fun. I don’t know what I was expecting, but the event surpassed any such expectations I might have had. First off, Seppuku and …
This Week in God
Apr 02, 7:01 am
I have recently decided to become a god. I enjoy onmipotence I have been granted since my induction into the pantheon. For others who also wish to give godhood a try, I have compiled the following knowledge to ease your way. What can I say? I’m benevolent like that. 1. Sacrificing people is considered an evil, if wonderfully efficient, way …
Apr 02, 7:01 am
I have recently decided to become a god. I enjoy onmipotence I have been granted since my induction into the pantheon. For others who also wish to give godhood a try, I have compiled the following knowledge to ease your way. What can I say? I’m benevolent like that. 1. Sacrificing people is considered an evil, if wonderfully efficient, way …
No Rest for the Wicked
Apr 02, 6:59 am
Yeah, I won’t be sleeping anymore. I got my copy of Splinter Cell: Chaos Theory a few days early, along with the rest of the Frag Dolls, plus a PC copy of Brothers in Arms, plus Lumines for the PSP. It should be illegal, really, to get so much goodness all at once. There’s no way I can squeeze all …
Apr 02, 6:59 am
Yeah, I won’t be sleeping anymore. I got my copy of Splinter Cell: Chaos Theory a few days early, along with the rest of the Frag Dolls, plus a PC copy of Brothers in Arms, plus Lumines for the PSP. It should be illegal, really, to get so much goodness all at once. There’s no way I can squeeze all …
I Like Shiny Things
Mar 21, 6:56 am
I’m a collector. You know the type. I have the box for every PC game I’ve ever owned, in perfect condition and with all the original contents. Except three: Myst, Riven, and Celtica. But I don’t like to talk about the fate of those - I was young and foolish then. As I’ve grown it’s become a source of pride …
Mar 21, 6:56 am
I’m a collector. You know the type. I have the box for every PC game I’ve ever owned, in perfect condition and with all the original contents. Except three: Myst, Riven, and Celtica. But I don’t like to talk about the fate of those - I was young and foolish then. As I’ve grown it’s become a source of pride …
Sometimes I Wonder…
Mar 14, 6:54 am
What do non-gamers do with their time? Nearly all my free time is spent gaming. I can’t imagine being able to fill that much time otherwise. Read? Well, I love to but it seems like no one really does anymore. Watch TV? I always found it amusing that my family had no trouble with TV watching, but time spent in …
Mar 14, 6:54 am
What do non-gamers do with their time? Nearly all my free time is spent gaming. I can’t imagine being able to fill that much time otherwise. Read? Well, I love to but it seems like no one really does anymore. Watch TV? I always found it amusing that my family had no trouble with TV watching, but time spent in …
A Pirate Named Yarrgyle
Feb 24, 6:52 am
It all started one evening when I met a boy who had escaped his family’s fate. The evil Marquis de la Montalban had pressed his entire family into slavery on the eve before the ship bearing their livelihood and independence was due to arrive. My friend was young then, and ran away into the night, vowing to rescue his family …
Feb 24, 6:52 am
It all started one evening when I met a boy who had escaped his family’s fate. The evil Marquis de la Montalban had pressed his entire family into slavery on the eve before the ship bearing their livelihood and independence was due to arrive. My friend was young then, and ran away into the night, vowing to rescue his family …
The Chatterbox Effect
Feb 06, 6:51 am
When I was growing up I didn’t know girls weren’t supposed to play video games. No one told me. I might have ascertained this, had I sat down and analyzed the fact that I hated pink and all my friends were boys, but I didn’t. I was having too much fun getting lost in beautiful worlds and bending my brain …
Feb 06, 6:51 am
When I was growing up I didn’t know girls weren’t supposed to play video games. No one told me. I might have ascertained this, had I sat down and analyzed the fact that I hated pink and all my friends were boys, but I didn’t. I was having too much fun getting lost in beautiful worlds and bending my brain …
The Suckitudinous Thereafter
Jan 23, 6:49 am
It’s difficult to get back into a competetive game when you’re away for a while. Ok, that’s putting it lightly. It’s suckitudinous to get back into a competetive game after you’ve been away for a while. All the little bits of knowledge, the intricacies, the details, are gone. Where did they go? I wasn’t aware of them leaving, but it …
Jan 23, 6:49 am
It’s difficult to get back into a competetive game when you’re away for a while. Ok, that’s putting it lightly. It’s suckitudinous to get back into a competetive game after you’ve been away for a while. All the little bits of knowledge, the intricacies, the details, are gone. Where did they go? I wasn’t aware of them leaving, but it …
Some Time Away
Jan 11, 6:48 am
I’ve had some serious time off from online gaming for the last few weeks, and I’m torn about how often I’d like to repeat the experience. I was never without a game of some sort in my possession, but being cut off from the internet had a strange effect on me. Without the internet readily available at my fingertips I …
Jan 11, 6:48 am
I’ve had some serious time off from online gaming for the last few weeks, and I’m torn about how often I’d like to repeat the experience. I was never without a game of some sort in my possession, but being cut off from the internet had a strange effect on me. Without the internet readily available at my fingertips I …
All I Want For Christmas
Jan 03, 6:40 am
Christmas is over. I’ve survived another year. Sure, I had my fair share of ill-temper and general stress, but I survived to talk about it. Every year I’m greatful for that. I enjoy Christmas coming, and by the time it does I love to see it go. It was my first holiday away from home, and I wanted to do …
Jan 03, 6:40 am
Christmas is over. I’ve survived another year. Sure, I had my fair share of ill-temper and general stress, but I survived to talk about it. Every year I’m greatful for that. I enjoy Christmas coming, and by the time it does I love to see it go. It was my first holiday away from home, and I wanted to do …
Paying the Price
Dec 18, 6:35 am
I try to maintain some semblance of a healthy lifestyle. As other gamers know, games themselves consitute a way of living. They’re what you do. Sure, we’ve all had to have day jobs, but those aren’t what we do. When someone asks me what I am, the answer is simple. I’m a gamer. The addiction is an all-consuming thing. I …
Dec 18, 6:35 am
I try to maintain some semblance of a healthy lifestyle. As other gamers know, games themselves consitute a way of living. They’re what you do. Sure, we’ve all had to have day jobs, but those aren’t what we do. When someone asks me what I am, the answer is simple. I’m a gamer. The addiction is an all-consuming thing. I …
Clothes Pins and Cameras
Dec 09, 6:26 am
Last week a few of us had the opportunity to fly to LA to make an appearance on G4’s “The Screensavers.” I know it was a dream come true for Valkyrie, who loves the channel, and for the rest of us as well. Since G4 and TechTV merged, it’s really the only channel that caters to gamers, so being invited …
Dec 09, 6:26 am
Last week a few of us had the opportunity to fly to LA to make an appearance on G4’s “The Screensavers.” I know it was a dream come true for Valkyrie, who loves the channel, and for the rest of us as well. Since G4 and TechTV merged, it’s really the only channel that caters to gamers, so being invited …
The Softer Side
Nov 24, 6:21 am
I was forum crawling, as I am wont to do, when I came across a link to “Hello Kitty Online,” an online game that’s either newly released or still in development (I couldn’t really tell). I clicked through the site a little and became quickly intrigued with the game’s premise, which seems to involve striving for the highest possible level …
Nov 24, 6:21 am
I was forum crawling, as I am wont to do, when I came across a link to “Hello Kitty Online,” an online game that’s either newly released or still in development (I couldn’t really tell). I clicked through the site a little and became quickly intrigued with the game’s premise, which seems to involve striving for the highest possible level …
Kung Fu Fighting
Nov 11, 6:20 am
Kill Bill was an awesome movie. Both volumes. Tarantino has great style, and some great commentary. I have yet to speak to anyone who didn’t find the superman analogy at the end of Vol. 2 awe-inspiring. I’d also like to add that Bill and The Bride had a super screwed up relationship. That’s not what’s important, though, the reason I …
Nov 11, 6:20 am
Kill Bill was an awesome movie. Both volumes. Tarantino has great style, and some great commentary. I have yet to speak to anyone who didn’t find the superman analogy at the end of Vol. 2 awe-inspiring. I’d also like to add that Bill and The Bride had a super screwed up relationship. That’s not what’s important, though, the reason I …
What I Really Am
Oct 29, 6:19 am
I just got back from the Radio Music Awards and I’m trying to decompress. The whole thing was surreal and it’s difficult to wrap my head around the idea that it happened, I did all this amazing stuff, and now I’m home to resume my normal life. There were so many firsts for me in Vegas: my first alcoholic party, …
Oct 29, 6:19 am
I just got back from the Radio Music Awards and I’m trying to decompress. The whole thing was surreal and it’s difficult to wrap my head around the idea that it happened, I did all this amazing stuff, and now I’m home to resume my normal life. There were so many firsts for me in Vegas: my first alcoholic party, …
My Turn To Fly
Oct 21, 6:15 am
God bless the internet very much. Losing it is the thing I hate most about moving. Not only am I in new and only quasi-familiar surroundings, but I’m cut off from my geeky internet subculture. It hurts me inside. That’s all over now, though, and the healing process has begun. The scars will fade and soon the only evidence left …
Oct 21, 6:15 am
God bless the internet very much. Losing it is the thing I hate most about moving. Not only am I in new and only quasi-familiar surroundings, but I’m cut off from my geeky internet subculture. It hurts me inside. That’s all over now, though, and the healing process has begun. The scars will fade and soon the only evidence left …
Games Within (or beside, or on top of) Games
Oct 20, 6:38 am
A long time ago I heard a joke about playing GBA between respawns of Desert Combat. I laughed at that, mostly because I enjoyed my GBA so much at the time that I was staying up until painful hours of the night to play Golden Sun. I didn’t fully appreciate the humor until just recently. I’m playing a truckload of …
Oct 20, 6:38 am
A long time ago I heard a joke about playing GBA between respawns of Desert Combat. I laughed at that, mostly because I enjoyed my GBA so much at the time that I was staying up until painful hours of the night to play Golden Sun. I didn’t fully appreciate the humor until just recently. I’m playing a truckload of …
I’m Holding Out
Oct 16, 6:14 am
I haven’t been on LIVE for a few weeks. Once upon a time, even as recently as a few months ago, I had never played LIVE at all, so not having done so for a few weeks would hardly raise an eyebrow. But now that I have played it and enjoyed it so much, I’m having withdrawals. I’ve stared at …
Oct 16, 6:14 am
I haven’t been on LIVE for a few weeks. Once upon a time, even as recently as a few months ago, I had never played LIVE at all, so not having done so for a few weeks would hardly raise an eyebrow. But now that I have played it and enjoyed it so much, I’m having withdrawals. I’ve stared at …
What’s Going On?
Oct 08, 6:12 am
Since Rez, I’ve been a big supporter of unique games. It was one of those acclaimed, loved-by-all treasures that somehow was never made readily available. Finding a copy was like finding a forgotten $100 in your pocket - painful in rarity and to be cherished above other experiences. Someone has heard the cries for more. According to GMR Magazine, Sega …
Oct 08, 6:12 am
Since Rez, I’ve been a big supporter of unique games. It was one of those acclaimed, loved-by-all treasures that somehow was never made readily available. Finding a copy was like finding a forgotten $100 in your pocket - painful in rarity and to be cherished above other experiences. Someone has heard the cries for more. According to GMR Magazine, Sega …
Choosing So Carefully
Oct 05, 6:11 am
I’m evil. I’m not finished with Myst III: Exile yet, and not even close to finishing. Just the same, I’ve broken down and started Myst IV: Revelation. I received a copy of it early from a friend who knows what an absolute fanatic I am about the game, and I did my best to resist its charms. I did great …
Oct 05, 6:11 am
I’m evil. I’m not finished with Myst III: Exile yet, and not even close to finishing. Just the same, I’ve broken down and started Myst IV: Revelation. I received a copy of it early from a friend who knows what an absolute fanatic I am about the game, and I did my best to resist its charms. I did great …
Once You Know
Sep 23, 6:10 am
I’ve been on something of a nostalgia kick for the last little while. In addition to my more modern gaming projects, I’ve taken on a few older ones as well. First off, anyone who talked to me at PAX knows how much I love Myst. I went on and on about it to anyone who would listen… multiple times. It …
Sep 23, 6:10 am
I’ve been on something of a nostalgia kick for the last little while. In addition to my more modern gaming projects, I’ve taken on a few older ones as well. First off, anyone who talked to me at PAX knows how much I love Myst. I went on and on about it to anyone who would listen… multiple times. It …
I’m Not An Addict
Sep 09, 6:08 am
I’ve been playing games a lot. And now with all the new releases, as well as the upcoming ones, I’m swamped, and I love it. In the past I’ve gone through gaming “phases.” Sometimes I can’t get enough of shooters, sometimes I’m absolutely hooked on adventure games and puzzles. I’m having a very difficult time defining my current phase, though. …
Sep 09, 6:08 am
I’ve been playing games a lot. And now with all the new releases, as well as the upcoming ones, I’m swamped, and I love it. In the past I’ve gone through gaming “phases.” Sometimes I can’t get enough of shooters, sometimes I’m absolutely hooked on adventure games and puzzles. I’m having a very difficult time defining my current phase, though. …
I Don’t Want To Come Back Down
Sep 07, 6:07 am
I came home from PAX, and I’ve been walking around in a haze of sleep depravation and disbelief ever since. I’m home, and PAX is over. Say it isn’t so, or at least say that we’ll be at another such event soon. I think I’m addicted to them. We went expecting to do well enough in the Black Arrow tournament. …
Sep 07, 6:07 am
I came home from PAX, and I’ve been walking around in a haze of sleep depravation and disbelief ever since. I’m home, and PAX is over. Say it isn’t so, or at least say that we’ll be at another such event soon. I think I’m addicted to them. We went expecting to do well enough in the Black Arrow tournament. …
PAX, here I come!
Aug 24, 6:05 am
It’s a week away. I found out I was going to PAX two weeks ago, and the excitement hasn’t dimmed in all that time. If anything, it’s becoming a more constant companion as the day approaches. It’s settled in my stomach and flops a little whenever I think about the upcoming marathon of gaming goodness. I’m really looking forward to …
Aug 24, 6:05 am
It’s a week away. I found out I was going to PAX two weeks ago, and the excitement hasn’t dimmed in all that time. If anything, it’s becoming a more constant companion as the day approaches. It’s settled in my stomach and flops a little whenever I think about the upcoming marathon of gaming goodness. I’m really looking forward to …
LAN Party
Aug 18, 6:02 am
LAN party this past weekend. Well, not technically a LAN party. This was a “warm-up” for one that’s overtaking my loft in two weeks. My partner’s co-workers will be the guests of honor, and they talked some smack, so we want to be ready for them. Pwn. One of my friends was ranked 1st in UT (original) CTF at one …
Aug 18, 6:02 am
LAN party this past weekend. Well, not technically a LAN party. This was a “warm-up” for one that’s overtaking my loft in two weeks. My partner’s co-workers will be the guests of honor, and they talked some smack, so we want to be ready for them. Pwn. One of my friends was ranked 1st in UT (original) CTF at one …