Author Carlo Carrasco – Page 18 – Author Carlo Carrasco

My Observations: You should visit Matty’s along Tropical Avenue, BF International

September 4, 2020September 28, 2020carlocarrasco

Hey everyone! Are you looking for something new to visit within South Metro Manila, and find something so delightful you will get good value in return for your hard-earned money? Specifically there is a place along Tropical Avenue in BF International, Las Piñas that my friend and I visited and we enjoyed very good drinks and tasty food plus a nice ambience. That place is a new café called Matty’s.

*Matty’s cafe is just steps away from Mang Pandesal.*

*This is the exterior of Matty’s along Tropical Avenue very near the corner with El Grande Avenue.*

Located very close to the corner of Tropical Avenue and El Grande Avenue, Matty’s is a café that happens to be a related business to the great bread seller Mang Pandesal which is just a few steps away at the said corner.

As soon as my friend and I entered Matty’s, there was this peaceful and relaxing atmosphere inside that welcomed us. The interiors really looked nice and there was a large wooden table (good enough to accommodate some customers who sit by) plus a few smaller tables with chairs. There is also a hanging monitor where you can see some cable TV movies or news feed shown. Wifi is also available. Further inside is the counter as well as a selection of beverages and prices displayed on the nearby wall. There you can make your choices and order over the counter. Oh yes, like Mang Pandesal, 1 Corinthians 10: 31 is displayed clearly. For your reference, the scripture reads:

Whether you eat or drink, live your life in a way that glorifies and honors God.

1 Corinthians 10: 31 (TPT)

*Tables and chairs await customers. Matty’s also has TV and wifi as well. (note: this photo is a property of Matty’s and permission was granted to use it for this article.)*

*A very nice looking counter and menu-on-the-wall inside Matty’s. Displayed on the counter is 1 Corinthians 10: 31.*

*Pandesal from Mang Pandesal and chilled coffee from Matty’s make a GREAT combination!*

My friend and I had a nice time talking while enjoying the really tasty drinks we ordered: a Matty’s milk tea and an iced coffee with jelly. There was also smooth music played which added more to the relaxing atmosphere. I also noticed while inside, we had a view of the road outside as well as the nearby corner of Tropical Avenue and El Grande Avenue where vehicles pass by all the time.

For those of you who love drinks, Matty’s has nice selections of milk tea (multiple variants), fruity drinks, hot coffee and iced coffee. Good food? They have it too such as their specialty Sylvanas and the Rich Leche Flan in jars to name a few. I brought home Sylvannas and the leche flan and they both really tasted good! In fact, I highly recommend them to you all! Through their website, you can even make orders in advance before visiting Matty’s to pick up. By the way, I must state that Matty’s in-store personnel are very helpful and attentive.

*Two great tasting products of Matty’s that you should try: Rich Leche Flan in jar and Matty’s Sylvanas.*

*and a closer look at one of* the Sylvanas. *Each one tasted really good!*

*Matty’s Rich Leche Flan in jar is indeed rich and delicious!*

Right now, I can say that Matty’s opening and commercial presence is indeed a blessing not only to the residents of BF Homes and BF International, but also to food and beverage enthusiasts from outside of the said communities who have the means to enter the subdivision and visit their café along Tropical Avenue (note: there are a few parking slots across the café). Considering how good the place is, how helpful the in-store personnel are and how good their food and drinks are, I can say that Matty’s is highly recommended. Oh yes, after leaving Matty’s, you should not forget to buy and take home great tasting bread from Mang Pandesal just a few steps away. You can’t miss it!

For more information about Matty’s, visit their website at https://www.mattys.ph/ or call them at landline 7217-6263 or mobile 09176858188. Visit and like their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/mattysph

*Read 1 Corinthians 10: 31 in the Holy Bible.*

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below and also please consider sharing this article to others. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me as well. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me at HavenorFantasy@twitter.com

Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) executives visit Muntinlupa City for 2020 Census

September 4, 2020September 3, 2020carlocarrasco

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Latest City Government of Muntinlupa details sourced from their official media release. Some parts were edited for this website.

For more South Metro Manila community news and developments, come back here soon. Also say NO to fake news, NO to irresponsible journalism, NO to misinformation, NO to plagiarists, no distorted views and NO to sinister propaganda when it comes to news and developments.

2020 Alabang Hills Village vehicular stickers for non-residents now available!

September 3, 2020September 2, 2020carlocarrasco

Recently the Alabang Hills Village Association (AHVA) announced that it is accepting applications (for brand new and renewal, and for residents and non-residents) for the 2020 edition of the vehicular stickers for Alabang Hills Village, Barangay Cupang, Muntinlupa City. Motorists whose applications got approved will see their brand new AHVA stickers released to them.

For your visual reference, see the images below.

As seen in the images of the 2-page application form, required (in the form of the latest photocopies of the requirements) if the vehicle is under the applicant’s name are the vehicle’s Official Receipt (OR) and the Certificate of Registration (CR) of the vehicle. If the vehicle is not under the applicant’s name, required are OR, CR and a notarized Deed of Sale.

If the vehicle is under the name of a Company, required are the OR, CR and a Company Certification signifying that the applicant is the authorized user. If the vehicle has been recently acquired and has no license plate yet, required are the Delivery Receipt and Sales Invoice.

Most notable of all, as listed on the application form, are some changes on the application procedure which is the result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Take note that things will be a little bit different compared to last year. Firstly, the application form must be filled-up with details (for non-residents, this includes an endorsement from a legitimate Alabang Hills Village resident, from your homeowners’ association or from a school or organization) and must be signed by the applicant (on the back page). Secondly, the signed application form and the required documents (note: must be attached with the form) must be sent to the AHVA through email at alabanghills@yahoo.com (note: you don’t need to personally and physically submit your application form and documents. You only need to scan them for the purpose of sending them to AHVA via email)

Thirdly, the applicant must wait for the AHVA to reply by email from the Sticker Processor on the payment arrangements and day of appointment. That being said, you must prepare yourself for whatever amount will be charged and whatever method of payment will be revealed. Constantly monitor your email. Fourthly, an authorized crew member of the AHVA will install the new vehicular sticker on the windshield (driver’s side) of your vehicle on the day of appointment.

One last thing…the AHVA confirmed to me today that they charge P1,200 for a 1-year sticker (2020-2021) and P2,400 for the 2-year sticker (2020-2022) for non-residents.

Inside Alabang Hills Village, I spotted a tarpaulin (located a short distance away from the Tirona street gate) about the different schedules of the start of applications of AHVA’s 2020 vehicular stickers for different types of applicants. The following details are:

August 24, 2020 – Non-residents

September 14, 2020 – Residents

September 28, 2020 – Commercial

October 12, 2020 – Motorcycle/bicycle

Meanwhile, the old vehicular stickers issued by AHVA in 2019 for private vehicles (both resident and non-resident) and commercial vehicles will expire on September 30, 2020. Meanwhile, the 2019 AHVA stickers issued for motorcycles and bicycles will expire on October 30, 2020. As such, anyone who have expiring stickers need to apply and renew as soon as possible.

If you have further questions for the AHVA, send them email at alabanghills@yahoo.com or call them at 8850-8254 and 8850-9631.

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For more South Metro Manila community news and developments, come back here soon. Also say NO to fake news, NO to irresponsible journalism, NO to misinformation, NO to plagiarists and NO to sinister propaganda when it comes to news and developments.

COVID-19 Crisis: Muntinlupa City to impose mandatory isolation after COVID-19 swabbing, daily reporting of hospitals

September 3, 2020September 2, 2020carlocarrasco

In a new attempt to slow down community transmission in the city, the City Government of Muntinlupa will be imposing mandatory isolation of residents who have undergone swabbing for COVID-19 and daily reporting of all hospitals and clinics to the local health office.

Muntinlupa City Council Majority Floor Leader Councilor Raul Corro said the City Council is set to sign an ordinance this week ordering the mandatory self-isolation, or admission to city isolation facilities if requirements for home quarantine are not met as certified by the City Health Office (CHO), for anyone who have undergone COVID-19 swab testing. Corro noted that the stringent measure aims to restrict movement of suspect cases and prevent possible carriers of the virus to travel and infect other individuals.

Isolation facilities in Muntinlupa are situated in Ospital ng Muntinlupa, Brgy. Alabang and Emergency Quarantine Facility (EQF) in Brgy. Sucat. An additional quarantine facility is being constructed in Pacwood Site, Brgy. Tunasan in partnership with the Department of Public Works and Highways.

Further, Muntinlupa City Council will also be signing an ordinance mandating the daily reporting by all hospitals, laboratory, and diagnostic clinics of all COVID-19 related cases to CHO. Councilor Corro said that this will help the local health office gauge the actual situation in the city and implement effective response efforts.

Meanwhile, new curfew hours will be implemented in Muntinlupa City from 10:00 pm to 4:00 am for the duration of the General Community Quarantine which officially took effect on September 1.

Mayor Jaime Fresnedi urges city residents to refrain from going out unless necessary and to follow health protocols such as frequent hand-washing, physical distancing, wearing of face masks, proper cough etiquette, and other precautionary measures.

Muntinlupa City has 3,389 confirmed cases with 2,502 recoveries, 768 active cases, 119 reported deaths, 533 suspect cases, and 840 probable cases as of September 1.

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Latest City Government of Muntinlupa details sourced from their official media release. Some parts were edited for this website.

A Look Back at UltraForce #2 (1994)

September 2, 2020February 25, 2021carlocarrasco

Disclaimer: This is my original work with details sourced from reading the comic book and doing personal research. Anyone who wants to use this article, in part or in whole, needs to secure first my permission and agree to cite me as the source and author. Let it be known that any unauthorized use of this article will constrain the author to pursue the remedies under R.A. No. 8293, the Revised Penal Code, and/or all applicable legal actions under the laws of the Philippines.

Some time ago, I wrote and explored what would happen had superheroes been real and got involved with government leaders and the corporate media. Considering what has been going on for some time now, I hope that more readers would read the article and realize the conspiracy between political parties and corporate media is real and even dangerous. Did you even notice that in America, the Left-leaning media outlets have been distorting the facts about the riots involving the Marxist movement Black Lives Matter and the violent Antifa group? Also, did you notice that the liberal media distorted the meaning of the words peaceful protesters? Being a former local community print media publication journalist myself, I know why media outlets (whose owners and managers willingly get involved with those who wield power) would distort the news and insult the public’s intelligence. Really, the truth is that objective, truthful, responsible and professional journalism is shrinking.

Enough with the sickening news wave of negativity magnified by corporate media. It’s time to examine the superhero-government-media conspiracy followed by a fantastic conflict within the Ultraverse in this look back at UltraForce #2, published in 1994 by Malibu Comics with a story written by Gerard Jones and art by George Perez (breakdowns) and John Statema (finished pencils).

Early story

The story begins with UltraForce member Ghoul visiting a place within the woods. He stops at a huge grave site of the Exiles and tries to communicate with his former teammates but to no avail. He only got glimmers from them. After expressing himself to nobody, he walks away.

Shortly after, UltraForce composed of Hardcase, Prime, Prototype, Ghoul, Pixx, Contrary and Topaz meet with US President Bill Clinton, US Senator Bob Dole, UN’s secretary general Boutros-Ghali and Blackrock of the press in the Oval Office at the White House in Washington, DC. As they discuss important matters together, Atalon makes his move against the civilized world…

Quality

*The interactions between the members of UltraForce are richly written.*

To start with, this comic book is a build-up type of story containing lots dialogue, exposition and explanatory pieces with not too much spectacle. That’s not to say this is a boring issue, in fact it still remained quite engaging to read. The very wordy script for this comic book was written with care and there were efforts made to keep the story cohesive even as it grapples with all the details for explaining. What the writer presented not only explained what is happening and why the world is being threatened by Atalon and his forces from underneath, the script also took its time in presenting the characters struggling with each other’s views while providing key moments that add some development to the personality of some of the characters (example: Prime’s interest in Chelsea Clinton reflected not only his teenage self but also his first encounter with her during the Prime monthly series). As far as storytelling goes, it succeeded in helping me understand the huge event transpiring and justified why UltraForce as a team is needed. When you think about it, Prime, Hardcase and Prototype already have major affairs of their own (especially when you read their respective monthly series) but Atalon is a major threat that requires the three to work together (along with Pixx, Ghoul, Topaz and the ever scheming Contrary).

More on the conspiracy between the superheroes, the government leaders and the corporate press, this comic book is more relevant than ever today even though superheroes do not even exist in real life. I like the moments when Contrary wanted access to government files which drew a strong reaction from Bill Clinton who in turn is being watched carefully by opposition leader Bob Dole. For his part, Hardcase expressed that his team does not want any power struggle between ultras and the government. And then Bob Dole stressed to Prototype that he works for Ultratech and said: I take it that you are a defender of the rights of the private sector?

Of course, the highlight of the writing is the dynamic interactions between the UltraForce members when they are on their own and struggle to work together due to their respective differences. The dialogue is very rich.

When it comes to visuals, this one is rather unique because it has breakdowns by the legendary George Perez with finished pencil work by John Statema. It’s not a pure Perez art work which is obvious but still I recognized the characters and there is still a high level of visual detail all throughout. Still a solid looking comic book!

Conclusion

*This is a clever way of doing exposition…Bill Clinton learns more about Topaz and Ghoul but only the readers get a visual presentation.*

Never mind the fact that it lacked spectacle, UltraForce #2 is still compelling to read mainly due to its strong writing, the memorable interactions between the characters and emphasis of the crisis that justifies the presence of the team complete with impact on the world. Not only that, this comic book event went the extra mile to emphasize crossing-over within the Ultraverse by including The Strangers (check out The Strangers #4 and Hardcase #4 for reference).

If you are seriously planning to buy an existing hard copy of UltraForce #2 (1994), be aware that as of this writing, MileHighComics.com shows that the near-mint copy of the regular edition costs $8 while the near-mint copy of the limited edition costs $12.

Overall, UltraForce #2 (1994) is highly recommended!

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Las Piñas City Police Force at Work – September 2, 2020

September 2, 2020September 1, 2020carlocarrasco

The Las Piñas City Police Department continues to serve the local constituents by means of securing places, implementing rules and helping those who need assistance. Check out these recent media releases and pay close attention to the details written.

On September 1, 2020, elements of Sub-Station 4 utilizing MC 111 under supervision of PMAJ LEO GLENN T CALABIO, SS4 Commander, and through the strong leadership of PCOL RODEL A PASTOR, COP of Las Pina’s City Police Station, conducted Brgy Ugnayan/Dialogue with Hon. Ruben “pogi” Sanchez, Barangay Chairman of Talon Dos, Las Piñas City. (Source – Las Piñas City Police Station)

On September 1, 2020, elements of Sub Station 1 led by PMAJ JOYLENE A BULAN SS1 commander with six (6) others under the strong leadership of PCOL RODEL A PASTOR, COP Piñas City Police conducted Checkpoint which resulted to fourteen (14) issued OVR including three (3) impounded MC. Sitrep peaceful. *(Source – Las Piñas City Police Station)*

On September 1, 2020, PLT BRYAN U RAQUINIO, SS2 Day Shift Deputy Commnder under the supervision of PMAJ JOEL P GOMEZ, SS-2 Commander through the strong leadership of PCOL RODEL A PASTOR, COP of Las Piñas City Police Station inspected above-named Personnel at Vista Mall , along Alabang-Zapote Rd., Barangay Pamplona Dos, Las Piñas City. Thus, personnel was reminded to strictly adhere on the minimum health protocols and advised to strictly implement the City Ordinances and guidelines under the General Community Quarantine (GCQ). *(Source – Las Piñas City Police Station)*

On September 1, 2020, Team SWAT of Las Piñas CPS led by PMSg RitcheB Pal under the supervision of PLT JUANITO ACIERTO VERGARA, SS-4 CHIEF SWAT under the strong leadership of PCOL RODEL A PASTOR, COP of Las Piñas City Police Station conducted Establishment Visitation and Physical/Social Distancing at Barangay Pamplona Tres. *(Source – Las Piñas City Police Station)*

If you are in Las Piñas City and you need the help of the local police, call 85516401 or visit https://www.facebook.com/pcrstation4/

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The above information and images were provided by the Las Piñas City Police Station for the purpose of public information and transparency. Some parts were edited for this website.

For more South Metro Manila community news and developments, come back here soon. Also say NO to fake news, NO to irresponsible journalism, NO to misinformation, NO to plagiarists and NO to sinister propaganda when it comes to news and developments.

A Look Back at Batman versus Predator II #2 (1995)

September 1, 2020August 31, 2020carlocarrasco

When done right with the comic book format, fantasy crossover concepts can become very entertaining and memorable. Such was the case with the comic book Batman versus Predator II: Bloodmatch #1 which I enjoyed reading a lot.

Now we can find out if the creative team behind that memorable comic book could maintain the high quality of fun and engagement in this look back at Batman versus Predator II #2, published in 1995 by DC Comics and Dark Horse Comics with a story written by Doug Moench and drawn by Paul Gulacy.

Early story

The story begins in the forest outside of Gotham City. A fake use of the Batman signal was lighted there by the Predator which was meant to lure Batman into a potential trap. As soon as he arrived, Batman believes that his old ally commissioner James Gordon bought a portable Batman signal meant to call him to a crime scene far away from the urbanized areas.

Expecting to see Gordon in the woods, Batman sees a tree with several men’s heads hanging each with a net. He realizes that the Predator lured him into what he calls the hunting ground. Batman is correct as the Predator, standing nearby, unleashes a weapon to attack him…

Quality

*This one really looked out of place in this comic book.*

A pretty good crossover comic book. When it comes to storytelling, the comic book starts paying off the anticipation built up in issue #1 by presenting Batman in an early encounter with the Predator which, I must say, was smartly handled complete with key references to the previous Batman versus Predator crossover series from the early 1990s. What happened in the said encounter between the two pop culture icons will make you reflect about what you know about Batman and the Predator. Given how the story turned out, clearly the encounter (which was quite beefy) served as a sign of what is more to come between Batman and the Predator (or the race of Predators). The Huntress meanwhile has a slightly reduced spotlight which is not surprising but she still proved her worth in the conflict. When it comes to presenting the respective views of Batman and the Huntress, I admire the use of narration boxes (instead of the traditional thought balloons) which added depth to the story.

Meanwhile, there is a subplot about an assassin from Asia who came all the way to America for a key transaction. However, this subplot (which does not even look like it’s related to the Batman-Predator conflict) ended up looking like filler.

Conclusion

*An action-packed encounter between the Dark Knight and the warrior from outer space!*

Batman versus Predator II #2 (1995) is almost as good as issue #1 but its first, action-packed encounter between the Dark Knight and the warrior from outer space alone makes it worth collecting.

If you are seriously planning to buy an existing hard copy of Batman versus Predator II #2 (1995), be aware that as of this writing, MileHighComics.com shows that the near-mint copy costs $30.

Overall, Batman versus Predator II #2 (1995) is recommended.

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A Look Back at Prototype #11 (1994)

September 1, 2020August 30, 2020carlocarrasco

Hey fellow superhero comic book geeks and Ultraverse fans! Welcome back to my continuing retrospective of the Ultraverse through the Prototype series of comic books published by Malibu Comics. Last time around, Jimmy Ruiz (Prototype) was not prominent as the comic book focused more on Ranger (the previous Prototype piloy Bob Campbell actually) who took on a group of terrorists with some help.

As such, we can see what happens next with this look back at Prototype #11, published in 1994 by Malibu Comics with a story by Tom Mason and Len Strazewski and art by Roger Robinson.

Early story

The story begins with Glare, an old nemesis of Prototype. As it turns out, he was revived by some scientists in a high-tech facility of the sinister group Aladdin. The green-skinned Glare breaks free from the restraints and starts causing some damage. He is driven by revenge against Stanley Leland, Ultratech and Ranger (Bob Campbell).

Meanwhile on the street of New York, Jimmy Ruiz (Prototype) and Bob Campbell are together. Jimmy, who is not even using the powered suit of armor, released a lot of energy while floating off the surface causing a major public disturbance. Afterwards, Bob decides to help his Prototype successor…

Quality

*Bob Campbel in his Ranger powered suit of armor.*

Let me start by confirming that the storytelling is very good. In fact, the high quality of writing was maintained and judging from the presentation of having Jimmy Ruiz and Bob Campbell together in a full issue (note: they got together only in the late stages of issue #10), it seems that Tom Mason and Len Strazewski had things planned out in an organized fashion. The result is having the two Prototype pilots not only together but getting involved (in a pretty believable way) in response to a rising danger. To make things clearer, this is NOT the anticipated superheroes-set-aside-their-differences-to-work-together-to-solve-the-problem type of story.

Bob Campbell still got plenty of the spotlight as Ranger and his battle with Glare is a lot of fun to read. Jimmy Ruiz meanwhile is developed even further. I also like the scenes that emphasized the difference between being an ultra and a tool of Ultratech which affects Jimmy.

Conclusion

Prototype #11 is another enjoyable and compelling Ultraverse comic book to read. Its own story is indeed special and worthy of being an Ultraverse 1^st birthday issue (as marked on the cover). Clearly this comic book marked a bold new direction of storytelling just as the two Prototype pilots are finally together.

If you are seriously planning to buy an existing hard copy of Prototype #11 (1994), be aware that as of this writing, MileHighComics.com shows that the near-mint copy of the comic book costs $8.

Overall, Prototype #11 (1994) is highly recommended!

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A Look Back at SOS (SNES)

September 1, 2020August 30, 2020carlocarrasco

Disclaimer: This is my original work with details sourced from playing the video game and doing personal research. Anyone who wants to use this article, in part or in whole, needs to secure first my permission and agree to cite me as the source and author. Let it be known that any unauthorized use of this article will constrain the author to pursue the remedies under R.A. No. 8293, the Revised Penal Code, and/or all applicable legal actions under the laws of the Philippines.

Back in the 1990s when cable TV was not yet popular in the local community I lived in here in the Philippines, I got to watch on free TV a late night showing of the old movie The Poseidon Adventure. That movie, which included Gene Hackman and other stars, was about a huge passenger ship that got capsized as a result of a huge wave that hit it so hard. The survivors in that film had no choice but to band together and find their way out through countless obstacles.

That creative concept was reused by game developer Human Entertainment for a video game I played on the Super NES (SNES) a few years later…SOS (titled in Japan as Septentrion).

Released for the SNES in 1994 by Vic Tokai, SOS was an adventure game that had players take on the role of one of four characters (each with a different story plus different endings) who must escape the ship within sixty minutes in real-time. Along the way, the player must avoid obstacles, get to the hard-to-reach places and escape the ship before time runs out.

How good or bad the game is, you can find out in this look back at SOS.

*The misadventure begins on the Lady Crithania with the disaster.*

Early story

The story begins in the luxury passenger ship called Lady Crithania. Depending on which character you choose, Capris is an architect who has a sick sister; Luke is a crew member of the ship whose superiors don’t take his warnings about harsh sea conditions seriously; Jeffrey is a doctor who is traveling with his wife and Redwin is a counselor who is traveling with a family.

*A cut scene emphasizing the story of one of the characters.*

*This is what the ship looks like after the disaster. At this point, the struggle for survival truly begins.*

Regardless of which character was selected, a massive wave hits the Lady Crithania so hard it got capsized. The interiors suddenly turned upside down causing lots of damage and deaths. The protagonist is challenged with the chaotic interiors, obstacles, interacting with some survivors and reach the boiler room to survive.

Gameplay and Quality

As it is a 2-dimensional (2D) game, SOS is a side-scrolling adventure with some platform gaming elements mixed in. You can have your character move and jump most of the time with the occasional action of helping passengers (by means of reaching) travel with you (with some commands to communicate with them). While the design made sense, playing SOS always turned out to be a tiring chore and a test of patience due to the lack of precision when it comes to control response.

Adding further to challenge is the occasional shift of the capsized shift which changes the angles of the interiors which instantly alters the difficulty on moving around and jumping to the essential platforms (to progress to the next place). The shifting was visually done using the SNES’ Mode 7 feature. For the newcomers reading this, Mode 7 is the graphics mode unique to the SNES which enables scaling and rotating of the background image. While the sprites and 2D art in this game lacked punch, it is the Mode 7 feature that really added some quality to SOS’ visuals temporarily.

*The more survivors you help and take with you to the very end, the better the ending will be.*

*You can also swim through flood sections.*

More on the difficulty, the artificial intelligence (AI) programmed for the survivors that you can choose to rescue is pretty low which leads to a lack of response whenever your character calls them to follow you to get to the next level and survive. Not only were there times the other characters did not respond, some got even stuck in tight places.

As this game has 1-hour countdown in real time, making a mistake is costly. For example, you jump but fail to reach a crucial platform and fall down into the abyss and die will lead to your character respawning but with a noticeable amount of time reduced. Considering the lack of precision on controls and other factors, this made SOS challenging and frustrating to play.

*If only the other survivors were more responsive to your calls…*

And then there is the challenge to get the best possible ending you could by means of rescuing as many other survivors as you could and reach the very end with them. To put it this way, if you decide to be completely self-centered, disregard all the other survivors and make your way to the end without them, will result a really bad ending. You rescue more and make it alive with them, then the ending will get better.

Conclusion

*If you fall and die, your character will respawn but with an amount of time reduced.*

SOS has a very nice concept of adventuring that focuses mainly on survival and involves no combat and certainly no clear enemies to encounter. It is just too bad that the flaws of this game made it more frustrating to play and very few people will actually get to enjoy it.

If you own a working SNES and you are thinking about buying an existing copy of SOS, I do not recommend buying it with your precious money. Better rent it instead.

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A Look Back at RoboCop versus The Terminator #3 (1992)

August 31, 2020August 28, 2020carlocarrasco

Hey everyone! It’s time to go back to the comic book crossover featuring two metallic titans, The Terminator and RoboCop! I have already reviewed two issues of the 4-issue mini-series published by Dark Horse Comics and so far, it’s been a mixed ride. Issue #1 was pretty much a huge build-up that led to a nice pay-off in issue #2. Considering what happened at the end of the last issue, I got hooked with wanting to see what follows next.

As such, here is my look back at RoboCop versus The Terminator #3, published in 1992 by Dark Horse Comics with a story written by Frank Miller and drawn by Walt Simonson.

Early story

The story begins in the far future in with planet Earth already saved but at the expense of humanity. The human race not only got crushed but also flattened, processed and converted into energy to fuel the Terminators. While things look certain and final for machines and man in the far future, a universe is about to organize.

Back in the present day, RoboCop just defeated the Terminator in a high-octane battle that caused a whole lot of damage. The lady from the far future asked RoboCop if he understood what has happened and if he finally believes she told the truth. Realizing the truth, RoboCop allows her to come close and try to blast him with her huge weapon. The attempt failed and RoboCop walks away.

RoboCop visits the cemetery and spends time at his grave that states his name: Alex Murphy. After some deep reflection, RoboCop recalls his vision of the far future. This prompts him to take the most drastic action he could think of…

Quality

Considering how the story turned out in the first two issues, it was no surprise that some drastic twists had to be taken to not only continue the combined universes of RoboCop and the Terminator, but also keep things fresh. The good news here is that Frank Miller’s writing is pretty good and he successfully kept the story cohesive even though drastic twists were made.

At the very core of the story is the theme about RoboCop being acknowledged as the creator of Skynet and the Terminators. As a police officer, RoboCop’s duty is to protect the innocent and uphold the law for the good of his local society, and yet for as long as he exists, so will Skynet and the Terminators of the far future. How Frank Miller fused key elements of RoboCop’s mythos with those of the Terminator franchise was pretty clever and believable from a fantasy viewpoint.

When it comes to weak points, I should say that Walt Simonson’s are here is not great although he does a descent job with drawing RoboCop. Simonson’s visual take on the Terminators has that cartoony look which is alienating.

Conclusion

*It sure is hard to make the moves to drastically alter the future for the good of humanity.*

RoboCop versus The Terminator #3 is a successfully told chapter in its 4-issue mini-series. It falls short of the greatness of issue #2 but it still proved to be fun and compelling to read. By the time the comic book ended, the stakes were raised for the next issue which I look forward to read.

If you are seriously planning to buy an existing hard copy of RoboCop versus The Terminator #3 (1992), be aware that as of this writing, MileHighComics.com shows that the near-mint copy costs $15.

Overall, RoboCop versus The Terminator #3 (1992) is recommended.

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