tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-60818422997023983002024-03-12T22:57:17.392-07:00Sky of snakesRabieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11721056663645910939noreply@blogger.comBlogger59125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6081842299702398300.post-79312671115686999272017-12-14T15:03:00.002-08:002017-12-14T15:03:30.797-08:00FALLING IRON PLAYER'S GUIDE IS NEARING COMPLETION and other news
So as of today the Player's guide for <b>FALLING IRON</b> roleplaying game is complete save for cosmetic changes, and is still lacking its final graphic design and print formatting. The final version of the ruleset is one which I am proud and champing at the bit to share and show. Playtesters have sat at the table, I have used those things suggested to reshape rules, or find a better way to accomplish the intent of the rule.
The only (somewhat) complex thing remaining for the completion of the Loremaster's guide is a reformatting of the Bestiary entries. All of the stat blocks are complete, but for clarity I have reworked how information is presented for the Loremaster. The Loremaster's guide had to be pared down as some of the rules presented were simply duplications of rules already described in the PG. Where ever this happened, I included an explanation of the intent of the rule- and/or questions which the Loremaster can ask themselves to be sure they are ruling within the parameters of said rule.
It should be note and I include a special thanks to my wife Jacqui; without whom none of this (and more) would be possible. In both my career and in life she is a constant. My confidant, my cheerleader, and the person I whom understands me better than anyone ever has. She had nursed me back to health; stood by me though a heart attack and the fallout from that; pushing me harder- making grasp at every inch. She is part of my drive and for that she deserves thanks and adulation.
Thanks, Baby.
As my birthday quickly approaches I will post a year in review. This year began rough, got better; hitting a rough patch as of late- however with determination I am overcoming the problems.
Recognize your faults and do something to correct course. Seriously.
I will also be posting a review (<b>without </b>spoilers)tomorrow.
<b>may the force be with you. </b>Rabieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11721056663645910939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6081842299702398300.post-22823134334725355202017-11-29T14:20:00.001-08:002017-11-29T14:21:05.729-08:00FALLING IRON, Fantasy gaming in an author-built setting
Hello everyone! If you are new here welcome- if you have been following this <b>Blog</b> welcome back.
First of all I would like to introduce the history of the creation, the basic concepts of the design and setting; following by a detailed description of work yet to be polished; finishing with some creator notes and information on the upcoming <b>Kickstarter</b> and the like. So let's get right to it-
<b>FALLING IRON</b> is the descendant of a game I started in high school in the office of a friend. Typed out on computer paper on an old fashioned mechanical key, keyboard. Simple drawings and paintings described the lands contained within. I had been a gamer for near on a decade by this point and wanted to guide the rules for others to create their own stories. But over time other things got in the way- School, girls, music, art.
In art college I used the setting for a myriad of projects- painting landscapes, creatures, weapons.Writing short stories and occasionally, returning to the rough draft of that rulebook. Then a fire. Took everything. Record Collection, comic collection, all my classwork from that year, and my game. All lost.
Years passed, I thought of my game. I ran several other already published games written by nerds from around the world.
We (Jacqui and me) had moved to <b>New Orleans</b>. The city was exciting but, dangerous. I spent most of my time in the tattoo studio at work, or at home working on artwork or bored at the computer. One day I told Jacqui I had this idea for a game system set in the world I had been using for fantasy games since I was young. (The setting needed to be updated and reworked to be far more adult and serious in nature; in the end changing and losing many of the tried and true cliches of fantasy worlds.) That all happened in 2012-2013.
<b>FALLING IRON</b> was born. The words slipped off my fingertips. The rule system was loose and broad. The world was ephemeral and ever changing- eventually names began to give shape to the Kingdoms, the disasters, the challenges and the dangers of this world. Old ideas were replaced by new ones. Rules were dropped and replaced, or shifted back to more exciting or clearer earlier versions. Races were added, classes were added. The book began to swell and take form. Years passed. We moved back to <b>New England</b>. My game was growing but slowly and my momentum began to fade as well. Not for lack of interest, but the social life and activity that was lacking in New Orleans, was revived at home.
Over the next few year, I was able to slowly add to the game. Eventually, because of calamity I was able to spend the better part of a year focusing on my game. Here is a hint of what will be contained between those covers.
The world of <b>FALLING IRON</b> is <b>Iloandir</b>, a world of fallen kingdoms,First ruined by the wrath of Gods; then Destroyed by wars between themselves; only to be attacked by strange and powerful creatures from a reality parallel to their own. Uniting under a common banner they built an Empire. The punishment from the Gods loosed even more creatures from other unknown realms. The world of Iloandir, surrounded by evil and uncaring creatures holds intrigue, adventure, horror and mystery. The creatures and their realms of origin, the Setting (including one 15 province, empire. A secondary rebelling colony, with its own city states- often run by dark creatures or out-right monsters) as well as the 5 Outside realms- are all part of the game. The ruleset contains the <b>Player's Guide</b>, the <b>Loremaster's Guide</b>, the <b>Bestiary</b> and the <b>Setting</b>. Future expansions are already planned and will include more continents, monsters, classes and races. Book II will also include expanded rules for deeper play (including miniature and gridded combat!)
The <b>Player's Guide</b> includes character creation, 15 Classes, 12+ Races, the system, skills, Talents (special skills), spells, a PC friendly History of the world and basic information of locations across the Empire and the Colony, Equipment and item creation rules, etc.
<i>The things remaining for readiness for the kickstarter</i>:
Final review of PG, LMG, and Bestiary
Final Grammatical edit
Reformatting of Bestiary entries (clarifying and streamlining making for quicker gameplay)
A formal Glossary of terms (already 90% complete)
a few small odds and ends
<b>Kickstarter</b> presents a small challenge: I need a small group of players familiar with the concepts of the game for some quick play videos displaying basic rules and a simple teaser of the Dice rules. I will need camera equipment/camera-persons. I am currently researching companies which I can get professional looking dummy copies of the book so backers can see what the book will look like when it is finally printed.
I already have 70+ illustrations for the books (done by yours-truly) I am looking into other artists (including at least 1 RPG legendary artist.) He and I have already spoke and I already know the cost of a full page or wrap around Illustration for a dust cover).
I have begun to make a list of the amounts needed for the production of the books, the printing of the cards for each set, and shipping. I also have been working up stretch rewards.
I am going to be writing in here once a week if I can to think. To plan. To share. Please come back.
RRabieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11721056663645910939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6081842299702398300.post-4044724154709806092016-11-29T07:27:00.000-08:002016-11-29T07:27:54.964-08:00A long and odd Year: FALLING IRON UPDATESo.
I haven't written on this Blog in a very long while. I would love to say I will jump back in and I will become a regular contributor to the "blogosphere" but we all know that is unlikely. I will do what I often think about when looking at the tab for this page at the top of my web browser. An update. On the game and life.
Well, we will start with the largest change and update- in April (2017) I had a second heart attack. It was major but I did no permanent damage. It has reset alot of plans and ideas I had for my life. I am doing better now, though my thoughts can ften be morbid, and now that I no longer work in tattooing I am often alone. That is a good and a bad thing. Loads of time to work on FALLING IRON, not much personal contact.
FALLING IRON is nearing completion after many years. I am presently working on final edits. The final play-test has warranted a few final tweaks; but overall the game is about 98% complete. Once the edits are finalized a professional proofreader is ready to take care of the book, then it is onto Graphic design and illustration. I have 45+ illustrations already complete, but I am going to add a few illustrations from other artists to round out the design, for a total of about 65-80 illustrations (cost dependent)
As the kickstarter draws closer I am going to being trying to do more on here. Trying.
thanks. Rabieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11721056663645910939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6081842299702398300.post-46345738767679802412015-11-06T10:59:00.004-08:002015-11-06T10:59:52.347-08:00Falling Iron updates
<b>Falling Iron</b> has been eating up all of my free time, as it is moving into the final stage. I have been polishing the game, adding detail and more flavor text. The game now has an even more detailed setting, as it is integral to the game; additional types of rewards for characters and more detailed monsters(and NPC)types- allowing the <b>Loremaster</b> to use creatures and threats at each point of character development. (example: a lesser goblin at early levels and a Goblin lord, or <b>Otherwylde</b> Goblin Knight to be used when the characters are high level- still allowing for a challenge and continuity to a story about a goblin/Fae artifact)
I ran an <b>Falling Iron Campaign</b> for several months, tweaking, the system and used the experience to modify and add systems for rewards.
<b>Classes had Stances</b>, and <b>Ritual Systems</b> added and now they are in place, these systems give players more options for mid to high level play. Stances for example give martial characters more options for actions in combat.
Several of the <b>Races</b> got more detail and slight changes to appearance and culture to definitively have them stand out from other gaming and fantasy settings.
The <b>Gear, Magical Items</b> and <b>Bestiary</b> sections of the <b>Player and Loremaster guides</b> (respectively) are going through final polishing now and will soon be where I want them for final edits and ultimately printing and release.
System-wide and game setting goals have been met. I started out wanting to create a game that could be taught to a new player quickly; a setting that is rich and dynamic acting as a colorful tapestry to tell stories in- or to act as a backdrop allowing the Loremaster to tell stories in the same world. I sought to create a game that was easy to learn but not so restrictive as to keep exciting and new things from happening,but to encourage them because the rule system could flow and breathe.
Never one to be easily contented, I am proud of the work I have gotten done, but want these last few things on my Falling Iron to do list, to be great as well. Over the next few months they will be finished and the final edits will begin.
During this time I am going to be hunting for just the right illustrators (as well as myself) to bring the beauty, fantasy and horror of the world of <b>Aern</b> and <b>the Otherwylde</b> to life with pictures. When I was a small boy (continuing until now) the illustrations in rulebooks and magazines inspired stories to brew in my mind. I got so excited thinking about adventures and adventuring. The idea of telling a story or experiencing one stemmed from those amazing paintings, pen and ink drawings and watercolors. I hope to find that same energy to give my game and its Worlds that same life.
I am about to start a new Falling Iron campaign. My players will be experiencing the game in its nearly finished form, and I could not be more proud or excited to weave new stories and share Falling Iron with the world.
~Ray
<i><b>Aern, Otherwylde, Falling Iron are all copyright 2015 Raymond Roberge</b></i>Rabieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11721056663645910939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6081842299702398300.post-5567094552411434772015-05-27T06:05:00.004-07:002015-05-27T06:06:43.467-07:00Falling Iron Playtest progress and development
Hello all,
Well it has been quite so time since I last wrote about the progress I have been making (partially due to running the playtest, work and simple forgetfulness) Since I last wrote the game has moved into the Alpha, and now the Beta tests. I have a group of 6 Players running individual characters. The Story and elements have introduced them to the setting and they are moving right along in the story. We have made some adjustments to mechanics (dual wielding weapons,a few new Talents, notes on healing, racial traits, Health and initiative.)
So far the players have all voiced a positive response to the mechanics and the dice system; two integral parts of the game itself, an interest to know even more about the setting and world of Aern (the setting is woven into the game, but leaves room for the person running the game to change, add and edit as they will to make new stories in a world with hundreds of cities, villages, and sites.)
The players made low level characters and have faced several combat and non-combat challenges. As the game progresses we will be bringing them through higher levels of gameplay to test the more intricate game mechanics.
At the same time I have been adding, editing and reworking portions of the Loremaster guide (the handbook for the person running the game) for streamlined play and adjudication. The Monster list grows and gets more detailed each time we play; I find myself making notes and having flashes of new ideas all the time!
Keep posted as the playtest advances soon I will be obtaining all the legal forms (noncompete, nondisclosure, and Copywrite) to allow me to expand the playtest to outside groups. I am hoping to be able to personally run the first session for new groups to give w asense of gameplay, mechanics, the game world and setting; answering questions and making notes. Playtest groups will be expected to fill out questionnaires regularly to help with development and will be thanked by name in the final publication of the book(s)
Thanks for your interest!
Ray
ps. please follow my blog and suggest it to anyone that may be interested.
http://skyofsnakes.blogspot.com/
Rabieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11721056663645910939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6081842299702398300.post-49490033297401534432015-01-04T08:29:00.000-08:002015-01-04T08:29:51.176-08:00Falling Iron Updates, Comic Book Progress and here is to a new year! Blog info as well!Hey everyone!
Another year has come to a close and a new one has begun; new and exciting things are also happening in my personal life ( I am getting married in a few months!)as well as my professional and gaming futures!
<b>Falling Iron</b> is progressing nicely and though I have missed my initial projected target release dates of late November or early December,the play test is close at hand. With a handful of minor nit-picky detail oriented things left to tweak (finishing a "rewards and curses" system involved with character deaths and resurrections, little things like poisons and traps, etc) and with editing really just a matter of both Jacqui and I syncing up some of the work done and finishing the last few remaining parts of the book, <b>Falling Iron</b> is truly about to be ready for initial play-test release! With numerous classes, a dozen or more races, magic and quick to learn combat system (that the players can influence the difficult of the rolls!) I really look forward to the next step AFTER the play-test has begun- the additions to the set in the <b>Expanded Ruleset</b>. The <b>Expanded Ruleset</b> will be included with the standard rules in one volume. The expanded rules will include a few more races, more spells, more combat options, a ritual magic system for both Arcane and Divine magic,new weapons, gear and a new Magic Item section- including relics (Divine Magic origins) and artifacts (arcane Items of legend) as well two more additional settings and more!
<b>The Sage</b>
As Falling Iron progresses I have also pulled my comic, <b>The Sage</b>, from the back burner and begun initial stages of blocking out new pages, creating new story-lines, reworking the look of the heroes and villains of that world, researching historical photos for reference, and an effort to begin to really delve into the finalized full story arc! The characters, locations, and events have all been through so many changes over the years I have been chipping away at this project (with its false starts, my half-hearted attempts of just slogging through, the synchronicity troubles, etc) however I truly feel like I have distilled the very best version of each to bring forward a compelling story in the vein of classic Golden age era comics with a modern day twist. The initial story is set in an alternate historical London, during WWII, during the Blitz ( a horrifying time of danger and a growing darkness). A hero once more is called upon, with his sidekick <b>The Acolyte</b> the two fight the forces of darkness.
I look forward to trying to get readership of this blog up (and with that a stronger sense of obligation, on my part, to you the reader to write more frequently and more regularly) Once Falling Iron has entered the Beta test phase I will finalize all of the copyright information (providing that here) and I will be able to discuss with more detail different aspects of the Game!
Thank you for reading and if you enjoy my ramblings about Falling Iron, The Sage, comic books, board games, movies and more nerdy stuff please encourage others to join the page! The more readers the more I will write I promise!
Rabieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11721056663645910939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6081842299702398300.post-76345232021660228382014-07-05T06:56:00.001-07:002014-07-05T06:56:01.973-07:00Oh, the many nerdy things.Falling Iron races towards the beta-test (in most ways it is ready to play and nearly complete!) The game itself is ready to go, with the only things remaining to do: add more to the 40+ page players guide/setting, a few minor details here and there, the dreaded Copyright process, which I have been and writing the legal-ese or the non-compete and non disclosure agreements; after which points I am hoping to have a robust beta testing period (lasting between 3 and 5 months)
The game will also have an expansion once the beta is finalized and the game moves closer to the final version. This expansion will have more religions, more magic, more monsters, several more classes, races and details with which a player can tweek their character, etc.
It has been difficult to not rush forward, begin illustrating/ finding artists,add the expansion rules,etc. My main concern is a playable, FUN game with cohesive ideas/rules/concepts, that longtime role playing fans can appreciate and new players can pick up and easily enjoy. The system is one of a divergent complexity. If a player wants to try simple combat maneuvers and attacks- the rules are there. If a different player wishes to improvise, the Loremaster (the person running the game) has the tools to allow for complex improvisation without the hindrance of a mountain of rules and rolls in the way. All while giving the player the ability to alter their difficulty with the Dice system.
I am excited to see this game spring to life. The setting, is already a great source of stories I am readying for future releases. Mini adventure arcs, that Loremasters will be able to add to their own campaigns.
More on Falling Iron coming soon!
(ps. I am looking to create a webpage for the game starting very soon anyone have suggestions on webmasters, hosting, etc?)
Rabieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11721056663645910939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6081842299702398300.post-32346418163868045532014-05-15T09:58:00.002-07:002014-05-15T10:00:40.489-07:00A geek with $15.00 walks out of a Comic store with nothingFirst things,first: Progress on falling iron marches onward. The last few steps before beta playtesting can be readied (materials printed, groups signed up and ready to play) is finishing the descriptions of the last dozen spells and the descriptions of the talents, and to make quick start characters (gear, beginning stats etc). After the beta I am going to be reaching out to artists to work on the project, with me. So, soon my friends. Soon.
Okay onto the reason for the title of this entry. I walked into a comic store today. A massive one. It is one of the largest in the region. The amount of titles is mind boggling. Yet, as I stood there looking at these titles, hopeful to find a new title, or a long running one to perhaps begin a subscription for something new, exciting, well written and well drawn.
I did not find anything that fits that. I found the art lacking on nearly every title, save for a few standouts, such as Thor (they started off strong, but after the first 6 issue arc the art and writing fell short) Tom Strong, well written and amazing artwork abounds.)
Titles like Moon Knight look horrible, as do the new Spiderman title and Wolverine. The art work is HORRIBLE. I mean I believe in a variety is good for comics, but the art in these titles is so poor that it is hard to get into the story. Have we passed through an age of great stories and great art? It seems so.
I am willing to take suggestions; but as a lifetime comic-book geek, walking out of the store, I felt sad.
Rabieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11721056663645910939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6081842299702398300.post-70089400051826486762014-03-08T05:57:00.000-08:002014-03-08T05:57:16.033-08:00Falling Iron- Playtest approaches.As I near the point at which I can release test materials for play-test groups I once more am looking at what I have here and I am so very excited and proud, even at the unfinished skeletal version of the game. I am excited to release materials and get feedback, I am also so tempted to work a bit longer and release a 80% version of the rules and setting, but I know it is better to hold a little back and keep some materials for the second round of Beta.
I simply cannot wait for the day I can be sitting at a table running the first official game. I have more than a few outlets to have official release parties!
Please share this blog with anyone that you feel may be interestedRabieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11721056663645910939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6081842299702398300.post-19356468740844682462014-02-21T08:15:00.000-08:002014-02-21T08:15:28.766-08:00Falling Iron moving forward!Falling Iron continues to march toward completion (at least to a point I can honestly say is ready for playtesting.) Skills, Talents, spell list and the monster list are all that truly remain before I can get the playtest materials prepared to send out to groups. The setting is nearly fully fleshed out.
Once the playtest materials are completed I ill be fleshing every thing out even more. And finally the last step will be the Artwork. I will be doing the lion share and I think I am going to be hiring some people to do some additional pieces for the game's final version. I also will be putting together a kickstarter campaign as well.Rabieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11721056663645910939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6081842299702398300.post-34123563079188745962014-01-03T10:04:00.003-08:002014-01-03T10:04:39.223-08:00Falling Iron. Setting teaser. first draft.Falling Iron is a fantasy game. The genre is as bold and varied as the imaginations of those involved. Included is a setting called Aern.
"Aern is a world with both kindly and treacherous Gods, legendary Heroes, myths and legends, customs, dark empires and just kingdoms. Cataclysms and disasters have shaped this world. Wars great and small have pockmarked its history. Dark forces always just at the edge of the light, wait to overtake the world. Monsters dwell in secret lairs, with gnashing claws and champing teeth. False prophets, poisoned princes and a thousand thousand other things wait to test your mettle."
The setting can be used as the standard Falling Iron game world, or as a guide with which Loremasters can create their own fantastic world of adventure for their friends to explore. Strange and fantastic landscapes of imagined worlds, or twisted versions of our own world in a time forgotten long ago, all could be host to the tales told.
Rabieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11721056663645910939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6081842299702398300.post-23222126275265029312013-10-20T07:12:00.005-07:002013-10-20T07:12:47.105-07:00First rough description of the game. (sans description of the setting, waiting for copywrite)
<b>Falling Iron</b> is a tabletop RPG; much like Dungeons and Dragons,Worlds of Darkness, Burning Wheel, Pathfinder, etc. It is meant to immerse the players in a fantasy world; even with storytelling as the emphasis,a gritty, fast paced combat- using fluid combat and magic mechanics are included in the system.
The rulebook will include everything a small group of <b>players</b> need to play, from the step by step character creation rules, (allowing players to make a extremely customized character, or a quickly built character to play in an impromptu game with friends)
A full list of skills and talents, to further customize player characters. The rules for the players are light, stream lined and fun. <b>Falling Iron</b> uses a d10 system unique and easy to learn dice system which allows players to have more control of their rolls than other RPG systems. The rule book will have a section for <b>Loremasters</b> (those that run the game) with suggestions on play style, mood, setting, encounter and experience tables,etc. A group of players and a loremaster can use the Falling Iron setting included, or the Loremaster can use the rules to create their own world filled with adventure, strange monsters, daring deeds, heroes and villains.
With 11+ races, 4 major classes with 13 sub-classes, dozens of skills and talents, 11 schools of magic and more players are able to create the character they want to delve deep in ancient ruins, hunt monsters through haunted forests, to lead a rebellion against an evil tyrants, become a legend.
Included are rules for combat, magic, experience, movement, travel, survival, encounters and more to allow the Loremaster the tools to create cities, kingdoms, worlds. A Bestiary completes the book, giving the Loremaster creatures and villains to challenge the party with, haunt ancient keeps, to populate cites with and armies to overcome.
The game is intended for 2 or more players ages 13+
Rabieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11721056663645910939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6081842299702398300.post-81142635170343632032013-10-20T06:45:00.003-07:002013-10-20T06:45:21.309-07:00Falling Iron, Worlds of Ether, The Acolyte and Schedules
So for years now I have been trying to avoid the obvious: without deadlines I get distracted by any shiny thing that crosses my path. It is not so much procrastination as much as a mix of ADD/worry of failure/and sheer lack of confidence that my ideas hold merit or validity.
With that being said I am going to try to set some goals, some will be short term goals some a little farther out.
List of Goals (aka demands on my self. Note: these goals are able to be surpassed, but must not be missed, to achieve a modicum of success)
- at least 1 page of pencils on the Acolyte, per week (with the goal of 34 pages- working towards at least 1 finished issue)
- falling skies spell list and Talents list done before November 15th, 2013
-world of Ether Retooling (version 3) finished by Feb 15th
- 1 progress report of better yet Blog about something I have read/review of a movie, comic, art showing, album per week here
on this blog. I have 11k+ views on this page anD still only 11 readers, doesn't seem possible.
~RRabieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11721056663645910939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6081842299702398300.post-69043100875843299652013-10-03T06:26:00.002-07:002013-10-03T06:26:56.096-07:00After a long Hiatus, Updates and news...It has been a long time and over the course of using this tool, "blogger", I have learned more than a few things. Firstly, and most importantly, it is difficult to keep up with a Blog. Now, that seems obvious, but it now has become apparent to me that people that do them often and consistently have a massive amount of will power aimed at doing said blog, or absolutely nothing else to do.
My life gets in the way all the time, and I do not have nearly as much to do as many others that run these. Perhaps there is also something to be said if it is a hobby, or something else motivates the writer.
This is of course not taking the blogs attached to or entirely making up a job.
Anyways, with that being said, here is what I have been up to for the better part of a year:
-Left one studio, (sadly)only to join another (yay! new studio and gainful employment continuing)!
-Comic on Hiatus while story is again reworked. argh.
-work on a new Tabletop Roleplaying game system called Falling Iron (working title) nears test phase!
-work on reworking of Larp system continues, albeit slower than originally thought and planned.
- watched many many movies (which perhaps I will give my thoughts on at a later date)
-got frustrated but continued to watch politics with baited breath.
-continue to run 2 table top games
So yep. Still working on art and music, and more but I'll write more asap.Rabieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11721056663645910939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6081842299702398300.post-42249256596223889062013-05-29T06:45:00.001-07:002013-05-29T06:57:10.608-07:00<b>THIS IS BAT COUNTRY: my review of Maryland Deathfest XI</b>
<a href="http://www.marylanddeathfest.com/">http://www.marylanddeathfest.com/</a> <br>
Maryland Deathfest (aka MDF) has been something I have been hearing about for a few years now. I have been a fan of metal since the I could walk to the 8 track player and pop in Sabbath; somehow this festival passed right under my radar, however since its inception in 2002. At first it was a very underground festival hosting only the most underground and obscure acts from the dark places of the earth (Norway, Sweden, Finland, etc.) Started as a black metal festival early on, the show in recent years has included thrash, doom, stoner, southern metal acts as well. (see link for history and the band list of former performers: http://www.marylanddeathfest.com/history.html) <br>
<br>
So finally, I was able to attend this year. Here are my thoughts on the show goers, the merch, the bands, the food and the overall the festival, and "vibe" of MDF. (I was there for both Saturday and Sunday. I am not sure I could handle the crowds for all 4 days of the full festival.) <br>
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The show goers were generally good-natured metal heads and music nerds. The battle vests <a href="http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=battle%20jacket">http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=battle%20jacket</a> were everywhere from the simple black metal style (very few patches,spartan black and white unlegible logos, carefully sewn onto a black plain vest) to full on late 80's style (blue jean vest completely covered in colorful patches, usually sporting a larger full back patch, often from a band the fan only sort of likes but has a brutal or just "awesome" image. thematically these patches feature: has a mythical beast (dragons, hydra, zombies, goblins, trolls, etc), a half nude woman, a man either barechested or heavily armored (holding one/two or all of the following- a gun, sword, axe or mace), a wizard/witch, decomposing/desicated corpse, gas masked figure, nuclear mushroom cloud, a Tolkien/norse religious/dungeons and dragons reference, a reclaimed peice of grim artwork with a band logo just placed onto the art (as if the band had this grim artwork made solely for themselves, etc. <br>
<br>
The crowd was generous, friendly and fun. Most people were able to laugh, and talk to each other (they all had the same hobby/common taste) However, there were some people that were miserable dicks(there to start fights, steal, harass women, etc) These people, though greatly out numbered did tend to form glots and become a nuisance, dancing into concert goers looking to just stand and watch, headbanging into other people, pushing, splashing beer etc.) Overall, the people were great, but if you are going to attend be forewarned, have patience of be willing to fight your way through a wall of DB to see bands you like, occasionally. The promotors, I feel, over sold the show for the venue size and therefore the crowds got out of hand more than a few times, and the crowd size was daunting.Overall grade:<b>B-</b> <br>
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The merch was great, colorful (and not so colorful) displayes in both outdoor tents and indoor spaces were repleat with logos and shirts and patches, some of which I have not seen ever/or in over a decade. The price for an average t-shirt is $15-$25 patches (small ones) were $5 on average, with the larger patches usually selling for $20-$25. Stickers, cd's, videos all were far less than I first thought. The cd's ranged from $1(!)-$10 with only a few special editions (wooden box set $120) fetching more. Great merch. Overall grade:<b>A</b> <br>
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The variety of bands this year was great. List <a href="http://www.marylanddeathfest.com/runningorder.html"></a> . Bands I didn't expect to be great were- <b>Manilla Road</b>- think early Overkill with a very aged guitarist and high pitched vocals, and <b>Sacred Reich</b> a band I have seen before but were great and also funny between songs, often making fun of how "fat, old and no fun they were anymore" and how "you should have seen us back when we were awesome". <br>
<br>
Weedeater, The Melvins and Sleep were the standouts for me, with each band really finding themselves and sounding great. Each of these three bands made the weekend for me. I am sad to say but, I was dissappointed with Ishahan's set, Pentagram's sound, and the crowd for Venom. Overall grade: <b>B</b> <br>
<br>
food- Barbeque, thai food, mexican. So much great food! Vegan snacks, Beer everywhere (did I mention once inside you can drink everywhere?) Overall grade: <b>A-</b> <br>
<br>
Overall grade for fest: <b>B/B-</b> The bands were great as was the merch and food, however the sound during some of the most legendary bands, and the crowd size took away from the festival. I feel that the festival has outgrown the present venue and they should move it to a larger area, reduce ticket sales (or get a place big enough for the crowd to be more comfortable)I will note, I did not attend the secondary shows at The Baltimore Soundstage. I do feel that perhaps the second stage take over the spot they have been using and did use for the main shows this year and the promoters find a new larger venue for the main stage. It is also important to note, the show was shut down early due to volume and a city ordinance (the promoters are claiming it changed, the ordaninace, that weekend and they didn't know that they would have to stop early. <i> Riiiiight.</i> .I had the thrill of later meeting Venom in person and they all stated that it was a surprise to even them. They were polite and allowed us to get pictures with Cronos. I'll be attending next year... <br>
<br>
<a href="http://www.marylanddeathfest.com/1000x250xtopimage.jpg.pagespeed.ic.5GNOlzWE7Q.jpg"></a>Rabieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11721056663645910939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6081842299702398300.post-33226507587294193792013-04-14T09:01:00.001-07:002013-04-14T09:01:12.160-07:00Work continues unabated on my Graphic novel, my book, the revamping of Worlds of Ether and the rulebook for my new tabletop RPG. I am working on all of those things have kept me so very busy. I haven't been able to write on here as often as I had planned, however I am still trying to write here at least once of twice a week.
Looking forward to new comics,new movies and new games. Looking into the details of Kickstarter and how to put a project together.
well thanks for reading, hopefully later this week I will be able to do some new reviews on comics, books, movies, games...Rabieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11721056663645910939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6081842299702398300.post-26794846748211536922013-03-30T08:02:00.000-07:002013-03-30T08:02:52.046-07:00Hello!
I have been quiet for a few days. Between Playing Bioshock here and there (after work, around drawing and designing my game, when ever there is time) So far the story is brilliant, it has political commentary just as biting as Bioshock I, and I love the game. <br>
The autosave feature does continue to be my one and only gripe of the game. <br>
I am working on so many things right now its hard to even know where to begin. I am always drawing trying to get a deep reservoir of material for both simple tattooing of my own designs (not simple designs mind you but a reserve of images ready to go) and also enough designs to create a flash book. I am focused on monsters, macabre, horror, skulls, magical symbols, etc. <br>
I have quite a few already and I am always looking to get more stowed away, Occassionally I go through these and redeisgn and redraw them to keep them in step with the style I am currently drawing with, or just to improve that which now seems outdated. <br>
Well I know that was exciting. <br>
Here is a facebook link to my Tattooing page if you are interested please feel free to Join my page and please share with others if you could. <br>
<br>
cheers!<br>
R <br> Rabieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11721056663645910939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6081842299702398300.post-32746162984548025432013-03-27T10:39:00.001-07:002013-03-29T06:02:13.770-07:00Bioshock infiniteSo far I love this game. great graphics, interesting story-line, a villain I cannot wait to smash in the face. I will update it soon, though I will say the auto-save only option, is irritating. Let me just save when I want/need to. Please. <br>
*edit* <br>
Bioshock infinite exceeds my expectations by leaps and bounds, Graphically (though I am only playing it on the Xbox 360) it is amazing as I have come to expect from this series, the writing is superb and is Genre twisting, craziness. The surprises are just that a surprise. That, for me is a quiet but nice change. The gaming industry is too often plagued by cliche and redundancy. <br>
I can't say anything about the story without ruining it, but I will say a few things about the setting: It is not all it appears to be, it is creepy when the proverbial "shit hits the fan",and listen very carefully to the songs that are being sung/played by phonograph/etc you will be surprised (it made me laugh)<br>
One of the plot devices is actually one of my least favorite however, here it works, and the writers and game designers actually succeeded where so many have failed, using said device.<br>
<b>Next blog</b> will be about Worlds of Ether my larp (live action role playing system) and the new ruleset for my tabletop roleplaying game I am working on!<br>
Rabieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11721056663645910939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6081842299702398300.post-49280774068003565782013-03-25T07:34:00.000-07:002013-03-25T07:51:57.587-07:002012 Year of the Nerd part 1
So 2012 was a nerdy nerdy year with:
Avengers,<br>
Abraham Lincoln Vampire hunter,<br>
Brave,<br>
The Amazing Spiderman,<br>
The Dark Knight Rises,<br>
Paranorman,<br>
The Hobbit,<br>
cabin in the woods<br>
All coming out in theaters, so much nerdiness was on display. Joss Weadon is the writer/co writer AND director to two of the movies on the list. <br>
Avengers was a great movie, allowing people not into comics to be brought in to the Marvel universe. I, as many nerds have stated, have some problems with the movie (errors and story elements that were odd- for example Thor who is exiled/seperated from earth in his own film is now suddenly without very much explanation sent to earth in a "oops I forgot there is a way to get there moment in which Odin sends him back (off stage) without any real explanation as to why he hadn't 'allowed" Thor to come back to his "lost" love... etc) never the less I thought the movie over all was pretty great. <br>
Abe Lincoln was not thought provoking, but it was funny. I do think the mini movie they made for the book release was more interesting, and the book I hear was vastly superior in every way to the movie.<br>
Brave was awesome. See it. Favorite 3 seconds is the first time you are told the back ground of the villian and they show a brief shot of his "form" neat.<br>
The amazing spiderman. I loved it and thought it was superior in many ways to the drivel of the last series. Doc Connors!?! Kick ass. I think the series may take a beating critically with the next installment with Jamie Fox playing Electro. Argh. Could be abyssmal.<br>
Dark Knight Rises. Yes Bane is a little hard to understand the first viewing. I don't care. Yes there is a huge part of the movie unexplained.(ie. how Bruce gets back to Gotham)Yes the final moments of the bomb make no sense. Nut this is a movie about a guy that flies around in a costume dressed as a bat, fighting other mental degenerates dressed as weirdos in an imaginary verison of the world were superheroes exists. Suspend your disbelief. Awesome movie<br>
Paranorman, a movie based on Salem ma. Literally. They couldnt get permission to say salem so they based the movie there and changed the name. Cool animated movie. <br>
Cabin in the woods is not what you think it is If you ever watched Buffy the Vampire Slayer show, and I know some of you did, this movie is so much like Buffy I thought there may be a cameo.<br>
The Hobbit. 'Nuff said.<br>
Comics:<br>
Hawkeye<br>
Daredevil<br>
Batman- <br>
Young Avengers "Children's crusade"<br>
Batwoman<br>
NPC<br>
Masks & Mobsters<br>
Avengers vs Xmen<br>
Hawkeye is great and new, and fun.<br>
Daredevil is rumored to be the second best this past year sadly I missed it and I plan to read it asap.<br>
Batman Court of The Owl was amazing. The Joker storyline is brutal.<br>
Young Avenger's graphic novel Childrens crusade is amazing. Artwork and writing are perfect.<br>
Batwoman the first arc writing and artwork are top notch<br>
Npc. Only read one issue and desperate for the indy comic's writer/artist to put out another. Sleeper hit with only 1 ish.<br>
Masks and mobsters. Early crime fighting rad!<br>
Avengers vs. Xmen. Holy crap, did you see that? Oh my god did you see that? He did what!?! Oh my god! Yep this one is a must<br>
As a side note: I discovered an article that makes me realize the story I was working on for my comic has too many similarities to a already-in-print-so-you-waited-too-long-Ray comic called -"Manhattan Projects"<br>
Comics coming out in 2013 that already look amazing...
Brian Wood's New all female XMEN!
New Sandman Holy shit Amanda convinced Neil to write new SM stuff!<br>
Age of Ultron- looks like it coulc be totally amazing ( I love ULTRON)<br>
Multiversity (Grant Morris has been promising this for some time...I know what it is like to keep on track Grant, Keep it up)<br>
Hellblazer is ending! Holy shit NO! well hopefully there is a huge... um.... blaze of glory!<br>
Keep posted guys!<br>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMp0bx3iDePAiRmebtrfVjLM07KetqcU1cyFK7iqveHh4NEo5PyUNodxkkHWYzdqSNR3DQvVwLK8AMJFR9f6vw3LDxSjU0HtCJc8e4UiBpQEyYM6YuywwNKDZ80JCS8nINj2aIiddDmzI/s1600/XMEN2013001_DODSON_VAR7.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMp0bx3iDePAiRmebtrfVjLM07KetqcU1cyFK7iqveHh4NEo5PyUNodxkkHWYzdqSNR3DQvVwLK8AMJFR9f6vw3LDxSjU0HtCJc8e4UiBpQEyYM6YuywwNKDZ80JCS8nINj2aIiddDmzI/s320/XMEN2013001_DODSON_VAR7.jpg" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOLtZUb6_soebtlszK_51KzPbBSL3uqr1EZhIZjOzg2DjO5F6GeoM2I_NshU6vy8KtlIdGiYQZyW0Aw3Vr-h9gFPGhcmIJU-Yf6dCYSnwEPJhKtY7b64rXLsrFAPDrOaiDgqixFnNw-yU/s1600/2831165-comics_x_men_marvel_now_female_relaunch.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOLtZUb6_soebtlszK_51KzPbBSL3uqr1EZhIZjOzg2DjO5F6GeoM2I_NshU6vy8KtlIdGiYQZyW0Aw3Vr-h9gFPGhcmIJU-Yf6dCYSnwEPJhKtY7b64rXLsrFAPDrOaiDgqixFnNw-yU/s320/2831165-comics_x_men_marvel_now_female_relaunch.jpg" /></a>Rabieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11721056663645910939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6081842299702398300.post-14570279306500864892013-03-25T06:43:00.002-07:002013-03-25T06:43:38.822-07:00New year.New projects.New modivationHello,
this journal has been silent as it has beena rough year. I moved back from New Orleans (the most dangerous place I have ever lived. Ever.) I made and lost some new friends; healed old wounds, earned some new scars. I have had one of the most eventful years of my entire life. And with all of this I have found new motivation.
I have decided to stop procrastinating on so many things and run full force at projects I have been putting off for literally years. Maybe it was a sense of worry, perhaps it was a fear of failure/success, perhaps it was a manufactured vision that I simply do not have the time to complete everything I want to get don in or on any sort of manageable time frame or by a deadline.
I have entered a contest (and won) a spot in the Wizards of the coast contest posted 2 months ago. The contest was to rework a classic piece of art from a list of moduales. Once reworked (and if my art was chosen) my art was to be included in an updated new hardcover edition collection of the Moduals. Well in July or August it goes to print! I am included this is the artwork below:
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCNaG9pBdVe2Hlpi7yO4AWiBHd0_BAgVreFYhmi-NjwHKe2-XGkcAt1J7Mn1jaxrjUEoeLQqjSVYe_oGtyy-A7bhT0ZJ263_0NtOeGMeFqR-hZrBa_t7AoaEuBx19J-xDeGuoKGdAp4D0/s1600/img-207233338-0001.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCNaG9pBdVe2Hlpi7yO4AWiBHd0_BAgVreFYhmi-NjwHKe2-XGkcAt1J7Mn1jaxrjUEoeLQqjSVYe_oGtyy-A7bhT0ZJ263_0NtOeGMeFqR-hZrBa_t7AoaEuBx19J-xDeGuoKGdAp4D0/s320/img-207233338-0001.jpg" /></a>
I have started reworking Worlds of Ether, my larp system that I have already ran for a few seasons, but I felt it needed reworking. I have a good friend working on the project with me and we have already begun to streamline the system while allowing for more player options as well. The final project will be nearing completion in the early fall I am expecting and will be getting a playtest at that time. I plan of saving money and running a series of games next year (perhaps a entire season if possible)
I have begun working on a new tabletop RPG (ie. pen, miniatures, Paper, snacks, friends, dice) which I am already making progress on , and I expect that I will have the game nearly complete by summer's end as well. I am planning several rounds of play-testing as well as a big Kickstarter campaign in most likely September!Keep posted for further details. The features of the game will be a fast yet robust combat system, magic, a dozen unusual races, an all inclusive hard cover book with artwork and everything you need to play the game included (except for dice... maybe that will be one of the Kickstarter awards...)
My comic has had some progress but every once in a while I am reminded the price of procrastination and some one had a very similar concept to mine AGAIN, so I have made new changes and soldier on, I am looking forward to working on the comic as a back burner at a slightly less breakneck speed to the writing projects.
Assorted art projects, commissions and the like round out my upcoming projects.
Rabieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11721056663645910939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6081842299702398300.post-34125219850635708332012-02-16T11:24:00.000-08:002012-02-16T11:55:30.779-08:00Comics, Movies, Pop culture references and more!<a href="http://i.somethingawful.com/u/elpintogrande/april09/wtfdndnew.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 456px; height: 583px;" src="http://i.somethingawful.com/u/elpintogrande/april09/wtfdndnew.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br />So it has been quite some time since I wrote a journal entry on here that wasn't a one line self contained apology for not writing more. This is now going to be a much more used way of expressing myself. I am going to try for at least one entry each week if not more. <br /><br />I have the final arch worked out for the comic/mythical entity I have been struggling with for years. <br /><br />I have pared down the story, worked over the rogues gallery, picking and choosing the best (I can muster)storylines and with any luck I can stay on target. Words of encouragement and critique are welcome. I hope to increase readership, and therefore increase the number of voices, heard.<br /><br />I have read, watched and enjoyed so much nerdy,From comic adaptations, old school Japanese super hero show/movies. I have also reread a scifi adaptation of the Illiad, I enjoyed the Jeff Smith retelling of the Capatin Marvel (Shazaaam!)comics, read articles on self publishing (yeah I know I am getting ahead of myself), watched the episodes of many web series including Mercury Men! (awesome), read science books, historical fiction, as many of the old xmen issues as I could. OH and i nearly forgot I need to get going on this comic as I already have an idea for a fantasy-comedy comic plot and some sketches for the next project!!!<br /><br />I also am learning more about Voodoo, magic, spiritualism. I have moved nearly 2000 miles from Salem, Ma. to NOLA. Dangerous city, wonderful people. I am missing larping. Hope to return to it asap. <br /><br />http://trollishdelver.blogspot.com/2012/01/what-you-need-to-know-about-d-5th.htmlRabieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11721056663645910939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6081842299702398300.post-83747287327113871232012-02-16T07:40:00.000-08:002012-02-16T07:41:10.747-08:00Ta-Da!Move is complete. Book restarting this week!Rabieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11721056663645910939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6081842299702398300.post-88928144014655806472012-01-23T09:58:00.000-08:002012-01-23T09:59:36.349-08:00A soon as I am in the new apartment ill be reactivating this journalRabieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11721056663645910939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6081842299702398300.post-63157470048375709482011-10-30T09:12:00.000-07:002011-10-30T09:56:57.282-07:00After much hesitation and procrastination I have finally laid pencil to paper and have 5 pages drawn out. (still looking for a good program or technique for inking, however)<br /><br />The opening chapter is the battle for London followed by a montage and a few short stories/ brief descriptions of the early career of the Acolyte. Locales include NYC, LA, Miami, Tokyo and Chicago. <br /><br />This project will provide me with the opportunity to draw all kinds of things not usual found in most comics (save for Mignola-esque stuff, and a few others) such as military costuming throughout the ages,ancient weaponry, occult/magic stuff, monsters, exotic locales, different historical and non-historical time periods.Rabieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11721056663645910939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6081842299702398300.post-49942947352702939512011-09-25T12:53:00.000-07:002011-09-25T13:40:19.432-07:00The New 52, The Mighty Thor, Self publishing<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://cinegeek.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/mighty-thor-1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 910px;" src="http://cinegeek.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/mighty-thor-1.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />New drawing table- Check! New character design sheets- check! New direction, new inspiration, new goals Check, Check, Check!<br /><br />So, the past few weeks have been filled with hope and excitement over the prospect of my comic and its long overdue start. I have been reading some new material put out by the biggies (ie. Marvel, Dc, Darkhorse, etc) both new and old comics, reading blogs about self publishing comics and makes a hero, world and political history. Finding unexplained phenomena to use as starting points for various story elements.<br /><br />I am going to review some of this stuff now, partially for you and partially for me. <br /><br />The Legion Lost and Demon Knights (#1's) have surprised me; each in it's own way. The new 52 is a push that DC has taken to recreate their lineup, to attract new readership- Superman, Wonder woman, Batmat, Aquaman, Deadman, Hawkman, Animal man, The Demon, The legion of Superheroes, The JLA, etc all have gotten (or will be getting) newly reworked versions. <br /><br />Now DC says they are going to avoid retelling origin stories but it is clear they have rethought at least a few of the main 52 titles with a few characters that had been in committed relationships; now, barely knowing their former spouses. While, other characters are dead or powerless, etc. Costumes, tried and true, are tossed aside for new redesigned "futuristic/armor like" new costumes. Certain trade paperbacks and major events have been stricken from the now revamped canon; while other things thought trivial are now shaping the world. (note: Perhaps they should call it the new 50 since 2 of the "52" are actually revolving writer/inker/penciller- type fare with one shot stories featuring heroes and characters possibly from other series- one being a cowboy western serial and the other is Dc Presents: Action Comics!)<br /><br />I have read 2 titles out of the 52 (many have not been released yet, and others still, do not pique my interest at all.) The titles I have read Demon knights and The legion lost restart both are changing characters I have liked for a long while now. <br /><br />Legion Lost (the graphic novel) was brilliant Coipel pencils, DnA writing- on overwhelming great story, with each issue of the 12 issue run,narrated by a different character. Each of the characters was so well written, even if you where new to the series ( As I was) you quickly "knew" them, powers, friends, foes, feelings- everything. This new start however is (IMHO) starkly barren. The artwork is not up to par of a restart of a series- the exposition hamfisted at best, characters that have supposedly known each other for years yelling to each other saying things like: "You should use your super strength "full name".While I, "full name" will use my super speed powers to do "effect"."<br /><br />Sigh. Seriously? You have started these titles over to draw new readers. <While I will admit the team they chose to continue the Legion Lost is not the team featured in the Graphic novel, (and that for me is a strike against) I understand the theory that chaging things up a bit may draw new readers. If it is done right. "If".The change up seems strange sinde thought the DC universe is restarting in a way- these characters are across the universe and in the far far distant future. Did you need to change the team that is lost ala Buck Rogers? So it all comes across a bit confusing (as well as disappointing as that team had a great dynamic)> I tried to give them a chance. this title is a definite "skip" <br /><br />Demon knight is better. The artwork, is interesting. The writing though it still has some strange segways, and exposition is not nearly as odd. The Main character Etrigan the Demon, has been summoned by Merlin to ancient England. The premise is cliche, but so far I am willing to see where it goes. I do feel the artwork could be a touch better. hopefully the penciller and inker find their own version of the character and setting. <br /><br />The Mighty Thor which restarted in April and is available to issue #5 (the #6 issue comes out on Sept 28) and is in my opinion, one of the best super hero comics I have read in years. The plot is great Asgard is crashed down in the Midwest. The Asgardians are mingling with a town, filled with fear and religiously whipped up. Meanwhile Galactis figures into the story predominantly, as well as the newly reborn Loki. The scripting is amazing as are the inks and the great pencils of Coipel. The characters of Sif, Hogun, Thor, Odin, Loki, etc look great. Galactis, and the Silver surfer, the Asgardians are all sporting classic costumes (as well as futuristic space suits!)and all look terrific. I cannot stress enough- if you are a comics fan do yourself a favor and catch up on the 5 back issues. READ THIS! (to be continued)Rabieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11721056663645910939noreply@blogger.com0