The Courtroom: Peyton Hillis Wins Madden NFL 12 Cover over Michael Vick

 Commentary, Sports  No Responses »
Apr 282011
 

And your winner is...Peyton Hillis?

As some of you may know, this year EA let the fans decide who would grace the covers of Madden NFL 12.  On March 21, 2011, EA posted a bracket style 32-player tournament for fans to vote and decide who would appear on the cover for the 2012 edition of Madden.  The winner was announced yesterday on ESPN’s SportsNation.  As the title says, Peyton Hillis, the white (gasp!) running back for the dismal Cleveland Browns beat out new-poster-boy-for-redemption-stories Michael Vick, the quarterback for the Philadelphia Eagles.  Now some people including IGN, made a fuss over the final two players.  Hillis, who burst onto the national scene last year for being a 1000 yard white running back, has in three years, compiled 1,574 rushing yards and 17 TD’s.  He has had one good year (last year).  So this is somewhat a valid complaint.

Vick’s “problem” on the other hand is of course his dog fighting past which landed him in a federal prison for 18 months before he made a miraculous comeback last season after warming the bench a year earlier.  If he was picked, it would a supposed “PR nightmare.”  A convicted felon on the cover of Madden! Oh no!  Please people.  I am tired of people riding Vick.  He has paid his debt to society.  It’s time to move on.  Hey don’t get me wrong, I don’t condone what he did, and I love dogs as well (I have two).  But no matter what, a dog’s life is not equal to that of a human’s.  He didn’t murder anybody.  And I’m going to say it one more time for emphasis.  He paid his debt to society.

Now let’s get back to Hillis.  The major complaint is that his statistics weren’t elite, which is normally “required” of a Madden cover athlete.  However, the fans voted, and they chose Hillis.  End of story.  It is possible that part of the reason he won was due to the fact that he is white. I do think him being white definitely excited some people because let’s be honest, how often do you see a white running back succeed?  I can even see some people saying, “A white running back on the cover of Madden? Hell yeah!”  Personally, I don’t care if Hillis is white.  Some people always try to make things like this into a race issue (the white guy beat out the black guy). For the record, I voted for Vick.

Now let’s try to be logical and find some other reasons for Hillis winning.  Perhaps Cleveland fans came out in mass to support their man.  Cleveland sports might suck but they have some of the most loyal fans.  Or perhaps people like rooting for the underdog (this is very true of American sports fans).  But in reality, what does any of this matter?  Who cares if Hillis won?  Who cares if Vick had won?  Patrick Hruby, a frequent contributor to ESPN.com, wrote an article that sums up my feelings about this “issue”: it’s a video game people, chill.  I highly suggest you read it; there are some great points and links to other articles.  In the grand scheme of things, the cover athlete of Madden 12 doesn’t affect my life or yours.  And by this time next year, people will be clamoring for Madden 13.  Until next time people…

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50th Post!

 Random  No Responses »
Apr 272011
 

50 Cent says, "You need Moar Powah!"

Hey guys, Judge here. Yes I am still alive. I’m sorry for the lack of updates recently.  I have been extremely busy with school, work, and trying to move to my new place.  Thankfully, our new writer SIYM1207 has been at least updating the site weekly.  I definitely want to start pushing out daily content again, but right now until about mid May is utter craziness.  I have a backlog of posts that need publishing, and I will definitely bang some out tonight. Thanks though for checking in! We’re almost at 10,000 hits!

 Posted by at 8:16 pm

Bioware rolls the DICE

 Analysis, News, Video Games  No Responses »
Apr 242011
 

Bioware and DICE? Hmm, Infinity Ward might want to wait until next year for MW3.

According to a Belgian source, DICE  will be joining in the production of Bioware’s forthcoming Mass Effect 3. The particular aid that Bioware seeks from the Battlefield developer is of course DICE’s expertise in guns. Those of you familiar with the Battlefield series will understand how masterfully done the weapons are. Everything from their detail, sounds, and physics only serve to enhance the thrilling experience found in their war-torn environments. Mass Effect 3 already promises to be humanity’s epic finale with an all-out war from start to finish and to have DICE collaborating with the vast (and futuristic) array of weapons found in Bioware’s concluding franchise can only mean good things for the fans.

It is widely accepted that the combat approach in Mass Effect 2 was largely more successful (if not more accessible)  than the series’s first outing but I must admit that I often long for the days of the near-infinite ammo/overheating system that made the sniping class an absolute joy to play. However, the news of Bioware seeking the help of a developer that specializes in weapon realism raises some questions. Firstly, will ammunition management involve more strategy in Mass Effect 3? Instead of simply running over “thermal clips” that universally restock almost all of your loadout, players may have to start scavenging the battlefield for specific ammunition or possibly acquire enemy guns (it is confirmed that you’ll be able to pick up weapons from fallen foes).

Secondly, will weapon damage become more realistic? It would be a lovely addition to combat if the sniping class had rifles that could kill in one bullet without always needing to be headshots. More so, especially if physics become involved, it would be thrilling if the engagements were less about tearing through armor and shields and more about getting into positions and lining up expert shots. Lastly, what other Call of Duty-antics will be introduced? Let’s be honest, the Call of Duty franchise has laid down the groundwork for what it takes to have a massively successful FPS product. No doubt that the presence of flashbang grenades and guns with “clips” is a result of that. However, it’s not all bad. The atmosphere and audio enhancements that the Mass Effect franchise could undergo (combat-wise) would be greatly appreciated. Still, I beleive there is a line that Bioware won’t/shouldn’t cross when asking help from FPS specialists like DICE. Just as long as there is no fall camo or thermal vision, I’ll be fine.

-Fifth Fleet Out-

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The Courtroom: Barry Bonds Found Guilty, Carlos Delgado Retires

 Analysis, Commentary, Sports  No Responses »
Apr 142011
 

He is now officially a felon

Well Barry Bonds was convicted on one of the four counts he was charged with yesterday, finally ending this circus of a trial.  The charge he was convicted of was obstruction of justice; the other three counts of perjury were dismissed due to the jury being deadlocked.  I mentioned in another article that while it may seem like a waste of resources, it would set a bad precedence if we just let Bonds walk away scotch free even though he lied to a grand jury (and even if the prosecution did a terrible job proving he lied, everyone with half a brain stem knows that Bonds knew exactly what he was doing).  However, after thinking it over some moar, yeah it probably was a waste of time and money; especially since the three big counts were dismissed.  While obstruction of justice is still a felony, it still doesn’t feel as vindicating if Bonds had been convicted of all four counts.  As Jayson Stark of ESPN.com wrote, all this trial did was reinforce what we already knew–Bonds was evasive. Continue reading »

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SIYM Presents: Reapin’ the Benefits!

 Commentary, Video Games  No Responses »
Apr 112011
 

“Reapin’” ? . . . Oh! I see what you did there!

Greetings citizens of Moar Powah! It is I, SIYM1207 bringing you installment #1 of “SIYM Presents.”

(author’s note: “Presents” as in “to introduce.” It is far too early for the word “presents” to take on its alternative/festive connotation)

Allow me to introduce myself as concisely as possible. I have been a gamer for almost all my life. Passionate to the exponential degree and (at times) frustrated to the same level. Video gaming has been my very first and favorite hobby and I plan to continue it well beyond the revelations of the soon-to-come life-altering finale of Mass Effect 3. As previously mentioned, Mass Effect single-handedly takes the crown for my favorite series/franchise of all time and remains the only title to dethrone Knights of the Old Republic of that same honor. While I have many more interests that span beyond the genres of  adventure and RPG, I feel it is time to outline what you can expect from SIYM1207 in the coming weeks.

The purpose of this segment of Moar Powah! is to provide a passionate perspective into the gaming world. While I will not promise in-depth, critical, behind-the-scenes news and intel (Moar Powah! is already graced with individuals who specialize in such knowledge) I will do my part to bring forth various insights and expectations from video gaming’s best and most epic. While Mass Effect will be heavily on mind, other forthcoming titles not limited to The Old Republic, Battlefield 3, Bioshock Infinite, and Operation Flshpoint: Red River are releases I am just as eager to experience and enjoy.

Lastly, the second series I plan to introduce to this site is “Weekend Warrior.” In this segment, I will provide commentary on the sport of motocross (outdoor/indoor motorcycle racing) and its racing events that occur most every saturday or sunday. However, it should be noted that (unless you have prior/current experience with the sport) it will be difficult to understand and even harder to relate to. Still, I will submit regardless and hope everyone will enjoy my analysis/rants for what they are.

” . . . and this is my favorite site on the interwebs.”

What do you think of when someone says “Road to Commander”? Do you instantly picture frustration in the form of flying controllers smacking and crackling against the wall in a noob-ish fit of Call of Duty rage? Well, guess what? Not only are you the WIN equivalent of a child hurling Eggos across the kitchen because your mommy left them in the toaster too long, you also don’t play enough Mass Effect. Because right now, I’m currently embarking on a mission of “Mass Completion.” What I plan to do (as time permits) is to replay both installments of Mass Effect and do my part to be as prepared as possible for the launch of Mass Effect 3 later this year during November. As it stands, I have since finalized phase 1 of my RTC adventure and will look forward to the completion of Mass Effect 2 in the coming weeks. For those of you unaware, the Mass Effect series is known for not only its well-written narratives but for the way it carries the choices you make from one play-thru to the next. While it may not seem like much at first, when you finally put together your decisions (especially when you make use of the “import character” option) the sheer amount of outcomes and alterations to the plot and interactions with your companions can be startling. Here’s hoping we all reap the benefits of this year. Whether that be in space, on the battlefield, or simply a bizarre combination of both, best of luck to all!

- Fifth Fleet Out -

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Analysis: Celtics 77, Heat 100 and Thunder 120, Lakers 106

 Analysis, Sports  No Responses »
Apr 112011
 

Just a regular game eh? Looks like a playoff game to me if I didn't know better.

First let’s go over the Heat’s 100-77 victory over the Celtics.  It may just seem like one meaningless game, and even if the Heat say it’s one meaningless game, in reality it was moar than that.  It was a gut check; a test to see if the Heat had in fact gotten better over the course of the season.  The Heat were also 0-3 against the Celtics this year; they had yet to figure out the stingy Boston D.  But yesterday night, they did by dropping 100 points on the defending Eastern Conference Champs.  It was a team effort by the Heat.  Dwyane Wade had only 14 points, but his tenacious D (including his sick block on Ray Allen’s layup) was integral in the Heat’s victory.  Chris Bosh was limited against the physical Kevin Garnett but held his own; he showed he was tough as well by grabbing five offensive boards.  Center Joel Anthony had a great game, scoring 7 points and grabbing 10 boards.  That may not be an impressive stat line, but his defense is what was really valuable.  Lebron James was awfully efficient, scoring 27 points on 11-19 shooting.  He also grabbed five boards, dished out seven assists, and had four steals.  No matter what you say, this was an impressive and much needed win by the Heat.  This also moved them ahead of the Celtic’s for the number two seed in the East.  Forgot to mention that.  So yeah, this game was actually important.  Now let’s look at the Celtic’s.  Oh man.  The Celtic’s have been completely awful of late.  Ever since the Kendrick Perkins trade, they seemed to have lost their identity.  I think KG really misses having a big body who takes care of the dirty work playing alongside him.  Nenad Krstic and the two O’Neal’s just won’t cut it.  Every team (especially a gritty defensive minded team like the Celtics) needs an enforcer down under the rim.  They simply don’t have that edge they used to.  Another thing that isn’t helping them is the play of Rajon Rondo.  I don’t know what’s up with that guy (besides his inability to shoot the ball), but he seems to have forgotten that he is such a gifted rim attacker.  Heat point guard Mike Bibby is an awful defender; why wasn’t Rondo attacking moar?  All he did was stand on the perimeter and make passes.  When Rondo attacks, the Celtics are extremely dangerous; teams have to collapse on Rondo when he drives, which allows him to kick out the ball for easy open looks.  Without his penetration, teams can sit back and relax.  He was like this against the Chicago Bulls too, when they lost 81-97.  Part of that was due to Derrick Rose, but an elite player like Rondo should still get his stats no matter who his opponent is.   Continue reading »

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Recap: The Week in Sports 4/3-4/9

 Analysis, Recap, Sports  No Responses »
Apr 112011
 

Sunday 4/3

Tennis: After beating Rafael Nadal in the 2011 Sony Ericsson Open in Key Biscayne, Miami, Novak Djokovic extended his 2011 win streak to 24 matches.  During that span he has also won four titles including the Austrlian Open. He’s one win from equaling Ivan Lendl’s blazing 25-0 start in 1986. Moreover, Djokovic was only 4-8 in matches against top-10 players last season. This year, he’s a remarkable 8-0.  It’ll be interesting to see how long the Djoker can keep this up.  But right now, there’s no one better.

Monday 4/4

MVP Kemba Walker cuts down the nets after beating Butler 53-41

The NCAA Men’s National Basketball Championship: University of Connecticut 53, Butler University 41.  The world watched as two teams who no one thought would make it to the championship game at the beginning of the season duke it out. What many thought would be an exciting game quickly became one of the ugliest games in the history of the NCAA. The University of Connecticut just happened to be the less ugly of the two. The Butler Bulldogs however set a historic record they would much rather have not–the worst team shooting percentage in the history of the NCAA Championship Game (18.8%). This is also the third worst shooting percentage in the history of the NCAA Tournament.  Butler coach Brad Stevens should be commended for getting his teams to two straight national championship games but to lose a game in this fashion is embarrassing.  Here’s a closer look: Butler shot 12-of-64 from the field, 9-of-33 from the 3-point line and 3-of-31 on 2-point attempts.  Look at that again.  They made only three 2-point attempts–no one else in title-game history has had fewer than nine–and a grand total of two points in the paint (UConn had 26).  Part of that was due to UConn’s superior athleticism in the interior (they recorded 10 blocks).  Here’s a few moar statistics: Continue reading »

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Preview: This Week’s Game Releases…Sort Of

 Preview, Video Games  No Responses »
Apr 102011
 

You know I didn’t do a preview for last week’s games because…well, there wasn’t anything that caught my eye, and I didn’t find out about the games below till late last week.  This week is also kind of boring.  The only thing that sticks out to me is Patapon 3.  The third game “retains the cyclopean shadow-creature look and musical gameplay of the series, and the player still guides a one-eyed army into battle by rhythmically tapping the PSP’s face buttons” (source: ANN).  In Patapon 3, instead of an army of simple warriors, there are now four under the player’s command with the new addition being “Superhero Patapon,” who acts as the player’s avatar and is the character that physically beats the drums rather than the omnipresent god in previous installments. The four soldiers can switch classes and equip different weapons before each battle.  Multiplayer has been expanded upon, with a competitive mode with four way battles having been added, complimenting the co-op system. Every level will be playable in multiplayer mode and can be played by a single player or with a total of eight players.  Connection is possible via internet or local.  Patapon 3 hits shelves Tuesday April 12th. Continue reading »

 Posted by at 8:18 pm

Thundercats Reboot? Fuck Yeah!

 News, Preview, Television  1 Response »
Apr 102011
 


On Sunday April 3rd, the trailer of the new Thundercats show that will be premiering on Cartoon Network this July was shown at Wondercon. I’m just getting around to posting this because of my busy schedule. If you’ve been following the site, you’ll notice that I’ve posted several things in the span of a few hours trying to catch up (and yes I cheated by adjusting the dates to when they were supposed to be published). And I’m now thinking of running a series of articles called “Fuck Yeah!” for exciting news. We’ll see (I have a lot of ideas, hard to implement them all :P ). Anyways, a few things to note: the animation looks sick, Cheetara is fucking hot (who is voiced by the equally hot Emmanuelle Chriqui) and no longer looks like an old hag, Will Friedle (the person who voiced Terry McGinnis in Batman Beyond) is Lion-O, and Clancy Brown is voicing Grune the Destroyer. I’m a big fan of Clancy Brown which is why his casting excites me. For those of you not familiar with Clancy Brown, he’s the asshole head guard Byron Hadley in the Shawshank Redemption. But he’s also ton of voicework; he has voiced Montross in Star Wars: Bounty Hunter, Hades in God of War III, Gorrath in Megas XLR, Lex Luthor in Superman: The Animated Series (also in Justice League and Justice League: Unlimited), and most notably, Mr. Krabs in Spongebob Squarepants. Yup he’s Mr. Krabs. Here’s the trailer if you haven’t had the chance to see it yet. Embedding has been disabled by request, sorry.

Mortal Kombat Webseries! Fuck Yeah!

 News, Preview, Television, Video Games  1 Response »
Apr 102011
 


On Thursday April 7th, a video of the new Mortal Kombat webseries was leaked featuring Jax (played by Michael Jai White) and Kano.  At the end of the video, the name of the webseries was revealed to be Mortal Kombat: Legacy.  Since then, pictures of Sub-Zero and Scorpion have surfaced, both courtesy of director Kevin Tancharoen via his Twitter account (which can be found here). I gotta say, I’m really excited for this.  After I saw Tancharoen’s reimagining of Mortal Kombat in his Mortal Kombat: Rebirth short last spring, I was hoping Warner Brothers would give him a chance to do something with it.  It seems that lot of film makers are going for a realistic, gritty approach when it comes to comic book and video game adaptations.  And you know what?  It works.  Here’s hoping Legacy doesn’t suck as much as the two other live action films.  It helps that the writers of  Spartacus: Blood and Sand Todd Helbing and Aaron Helbing are also writing for Legacy; this gives Legacy some credentials. The series begins April 12th on Machinima. Continue reading »

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