It's been too cold to sit at my computer and write something.
Hopefully the drought will break soon...
Andre Lim
Friday, 7 August 2015
Saturday, 11 July 2015
Video Game Music: Valkyria Chronicles
In my view, this game is an underrated classic.
Although the characters and story of Valkyria Chronicles are rather cheesy and corny (perhaps cringeworthy is a better term), the music itself is tremendous and the general gameplay concepts are quite good. There is something heartwarming about this game that is quite nice.
I played this game say...5 years ago.
I really enjoyed the fact that you could assemble your squad for the battlefield, and choose from characters who had discernible strengths and weaknesses. The storyline was at times a bit too Japanese anime-like but I did enjoy the large majority of it. The missions were varied, challenging and engaging. Certain squad members interacted with each other with a close bond and friendship.
However the combat system felt like a joke and was reality-defying - in the sense that, due to the fusion (half turn-based and half real time-based) nature of the game, I could spend as long as I wanted aiming at an enemy without being fired at.
Nonetheless, I am pretty open minded about games and I was able to easily overlook this and treat the game for the entertainment value it represented. It's a great game and I would highly recommend it. I would give it an 8 to 8.5 out of ten.
I didn't spend much time assembling this list, so I've probably missed a few things, but here goes:
Ranked List
1. Strategy Instructions - The build-up in this theme coupled with the tense and suspenseful (but positive) atmosphere makes this my favourite melody. This title plays prior to commencing the mission, where you are being briefed on the enemy's location and units and the objectives. There is a feeling of hope and courage, masking an underlying sense of urgency and expectation.
2. Main Theme - Sacrifice, mateship and adversity all rolled into one. Epic
3. We are the Barracks - That heartwarming feeling of comradery and a tight-knit unit is excellently portrayed by this theme.
4. Desperate Fight - A climactic battle enfolds, although the positive tone gives away the outcome (the good guys are going to win, it seems). Definitely a lot of passion and motivation can be felt from this piece. A victory is on the cards if we push on!
5. Succeeded Wish - A stirring and bittersweet melody.
6. Chronicles of the Gallian War - If I remember correctly, this theme plays when you view the chapters of the game in book mode. It is a very fitting theme as there is something mysterious and motivational in its notes, as if indirectly telling us that a grand story is about to unfold.
7. Street Fighting - The raucous and chaotic background music emulates a tense and action-packed battle.
Special Mention
Daily Life of the 7th Platoon
Cheers
Andre Lim
Although the characters and story of Valkyria Chronicles are rather cheesy and corny (perhaps cringeworthy is a better term), the music itself is tremendous and the general gameplay concepts are quite good. There is something heartwarming about this game that is quite nice.
 |
| Copyright SEGA |
I played this game say...5 years ago.
I really enjoyed the fact that you could assemble your squad for the battlefield, and choose from characters who had discernible strengths and weaknesses. The storyline was at times a bit too Japanese anime-like but I did enjoy the large majority of it. The missions were varied, challenging and engaging. Certain squad members interacted with each other with a close bond and friendship.
However the combat system felt like a joke and was reality-defying - in the sense that, due to the fusion (half turn-based and half real time-based) nature of the game, I could spend as long as I wanted aiming at an enemy without being fired at.
Nonetheless, I am pretty open minded about games and I was able to easily overlook this and treat the game for the entertainment value it represented. It's a great game and I would highly recommend it. I would give it an 8 to 8.5 out of ten.
I didn't spend much time assembling this list, so I've probably missed a few things, but here goes:
Ranked List
1. Strategy Instructions - The build-up in this theme coupled with the tense and suspenseful (but positive) atmosphere makes this my favourite melody. This title plays prior to commencing the mission, where you are being briefed on the enemy's location and units and the objectives. There is a feeling of hope and courage, masking an underlying sense of urgency and expectation.
 |
| Copyright SEGA A snapshot of what the map looks like when you are about to issue orders/instructions. |
2. Main Theme - Sacrifice, mateship and adversity all rolled into one. Epic
3. We are the Barracks - That heartwarming feeling of comradery and a tight-knit unit is excellently portrayed by this theme.
 |
| Copyright SEGA Some of the lesser known squad members you can choose from. |
4. Desperate Fight - A climactic battle enfolds, although the positive tone gives away the outcome (the good guys are going to win, it seems). Definitely a lot of passion and motivation can be felt from this piece. A victory is on the cards if we push on!
5. Succeeded Wish - A stirring and bittersweet melody.
6. Chronicles of the Gallian War - If I remember correctly, this theme plays when you view the chapters of the game in book mode. It is a very fitting theme as there is something mysterious and motivational in its notes, as if indirectly telling us that a grand story is about to unfold.
7. Street Fighting - The raucous and chaotic background music emulates a tense and action-packed battle.
Special Mention
Daily Life of the 7th Platoon
Cheers
Andre Lim
Saturday, 20 June 2015
Video Game Music: Rayman Origins
What a lovely game. I just finished Rayman Origins last Sunday.
If you are a perfectionist and are impatient, I highly recommend that you do NOT play this game - unless you don't mind sacrificing hours upon hours of your time.
That particular combination of characteristics is lethal. Playing this game, and getting all the achievements, requires a huge amount of grit and determination!
I can't count how many times I've died in this game.
But it is all worth it as the music, visuals and general theme of the game is quite amazing, creative and imaginative.
If I had to rate it I'd probably give it a 8+ out of 10. The repetitiveness of trying to complete the level with a perfect score got to me towards the end, but apart from that, the game is otherwise quite excellent.
As you might be able to tell, my favourite level in this game is, by a country mile, the Sea of Serendipity.
For the record, the most annoying levels, in my opinion are:
Ranked List
Please note that many of the tracks on this soundtrack are amazing but I've not listed all of them out.
I'm going to do the lazy thing here and put 3 tracks on 2nd place and 2 tracks on 5th place.
1. Land of the Livid Dead ~ Chasing a Dream: Like Land of the Livid Dead ~ Nowhere to Run (Reprise), this has a strong rodeo or Outback flavour to it. I like the solemn vocals and, perhaps, the bittersweet emotion that the track tries to evoke. It's as if we are journeying with Rayman into the sunset, as he embarks on his lone wolf adventure to save the world. Clearly it is a hero's tale of courage and grace. A fitting hero's farewell.
2. Sea of Serendipity ~ Lums of the Water (Glou Glou): A cheerful, uplifting melody sung by a multitude of high-pitched lums (creatures of the game). It's scat singing taken to absurdity. Chaotic, possibly annoying, but undeniably catchy.
2. World Map ~ Sea of Serendipity: The nostalgic and heartfelt whistling makes for a great melody that warms your spirit and heart. There is a great feeling of hope embedded in this tune, almost as if we are singing to our own happy ending. The ukulele (or whatever that stringed instrument is) provides a nice accompaniment as well. It is a bit minimalistic and simple but that's the way I like it.
2. Land of the Livid Dead ~ Nowhere to Run (Reprise): A sad and sentimental piece that has a nice Western or Outback flavour to it. Ruined a bit by the ugly singing before the choral music starts! The whistle tune alone is gold, and, if by itself, it could easily top this list.
5. Sea of Serendipity~ The Lums' Dream (Glou lou): I like the chill and eerie aura this song brings. to the table. On the right day this song could make #1 on this list.
5. Jibberish Jungle ~ A Slap-Happy Start: After the introductory ramblings, this tune transforms into something very cheerful and light-hearted through the effective use of the piano/keyboard, steady beat and melodic wind music - that is the part I enjoy very much.
7. Moody Clouds ~ Steampunk Suspense: There is a distinct excitement and buzz in the air. We are making progress!!!
7. Moody Clouds ~ The Mecha Factory: I was very surprised to find this tune in this soundtrack - it is almost out of place. The Mecha Factory boasts epic music on a grand scale that, in some respects, reminds me of Final Fantasy. It's a tad too short though.
7. Jibberish Jungle ~ Advancement: That feeling of steady progression and being on the up - the track's title suits this to the T.
10. Mystical Pique ~ Scaling the Mountains: Epic "rite of passage" chanting coupled with victorious music.
11. Desert of Dijiridoos - Breaking the Force Field: A variation to the ending part of many levels. Each world has its own version. Pretty cool.
12. World Map ~ Jibberish Jungle: A funky rhythm, cool variations and a nice beat.
13. Gourmand Land ~ Frozen Paradise: A nice calming melody - reminiscent of a place to unwind or have your peace of mind.
14. Gourmand Land ~ Dashing Thru the Fire: I like this tune purely because it is hilarious. "Ai Ai Ai." The best part is when the deep voice comes on AYYY AYYY AYY. Something appears to be very funny to these singing Mexicans - leaving the rest of us bamboozled as we have no idea what is going on. Perhaps the nature of the theme can best be explained when one considers that the frozen levels of Gourmand Land are suddenly (and quite randomly) replaced by these "hot" Mexican levels.
The expression "Ayy ayy ayy" reminds me of that casual phrase (Aiyah!) that many Asians say when something unfortunate happens.
Special Mention
Gourmand Land ~ Glacier Cocktail: A groovy and upbeat melody. Can't think of where to put it on the list.
Desert of Dijiridoos ~ First Staffs: A steady build up to some nice notes but too overdrawn for me. The shorter version is World Map ~ Desert of Dijiridoos.
Desert of Dijiridoos ~ Lost Beats: Great assortment of tribal rhythms and beats. Deserves a place on the list but I've, unfairly, been unable to decide its position.
Level End ~ Yes More Lums!: A great victory melody worthy of any major platformer! Really should sit at about #5 on the above list.
Sea of Serendipity ~ The Abyss: Dark, mysterious ambient noises coupled with a creepy tune.
Cheers
Andre Lim
If you are a perfectionist and are impatient, I highly recommend that you do NOT play this game - unless you don't mind sacrificing hours upon hours of your time.
That particular combination of characteristics is lethal. Playing this game, and getting all the achievements, requires a huge amount of grit and determination!
 |
| Cover Art |
I can't count how many times I've died in this game.
But it is all worth it as the music, visuals and general theme of the game is quite amazing, creative and imaginative.
If I had to rate it I'd probably give it a 8+ out of 10. The repetitiveness of trying to complete the level with a perfect score got to me towards the end, but apart from that, the game is otherwise quite excellent.
As you might be able to tell, my favourite level in this game is, by a country mile, the Sea of Serendipity.
For the record, the most annoying levels, in my opinion are:
- Mecha No Mistake (Time Trial) - I still have not finished this. This is the only time trial I have not received the Cup in.
- Swimming with Stars (Time Trial) - Barely made the time trial.
- Fickle Fruit (if you are unaware of when the level is going to finish and you are aiming for the Lum Medal): The bouncing fruit in this level (and timing when to hit the iceblocks) makes this level crazy.
- Land of the Livid Dead - just plain hard.
- Pirate's Treasure! - easily the hardest Tricky Treasure or red tooth level as you must get the timing and speed right to progress through the last part (where you climb up the masts), which is unforgiving. Even being half a second too slow will cause you to die!
Ranked List
Please note that many of the tracks on this soundtrack are amazing but I've not listed all of them out.
I'm going to do the lazy thing here and put 3 tracks on 2nd place and 2 tracks on 5th place.
1. Land of the Livid Dead ~ Chasing a Dream: Like Land of the Livid Dead ~ Nowhere to Run (Reprise), this has a strong rodeo or Outback flavour to it. I like the solemn vocals and, perhaps, the bittersweet emotion that the track tries to evoke. It's as if we are journeying with Rayman into the sunset, as he embarks on his lone wolf adventure to save the world. Clearly it is a hero's tale of courage and grace. A fitting hero's farewell.
 |
| Copyright, presumably, belongs to Ubisoft |
2. Sea of Serendipity ~ Lums of the Water (Glou Glou): A cheerful, uplifting melody sung by a multitude of high-pitched lums (creatures of the game). It's scat singing taken to absurdity. Chaotic, possibly annoying, but undeniably catchy.
2. World Map ~ Sea of Serendipity: The nostalgic and heartfelt whistling makes for a great melody that warms your spirit and heart. There is a great feeling of hope embedded in this tune, almost as if we are singing to our own happy ending. The ukulele (or whatever that stringed instrument is) provides a nice accompaniment as well. It is a bit minimalistic and simple but that's the way I like it.
2. Land of the Livid Dead ~ Nowhere to Run (Reprise): A sad and sentimental piece that has a nice Western or Outback flavour to it. Ruined a bit by the ugly singing before the choral music starts! The whistle tune alone is gold, and, if by itself, it could easily top this list.
 |
| Copyright, presumably, belongs to Ubisoft |
5. Jibberish Jungle ~ A Slap-Happy Start: After the introductory ramblings, this tune transforms into something very cheerful and light-hearted through the effective use of the piano/keyboard, steady beat and melodic wind music - that is the part I enjoy very much.
7. Moody Clouds ~ Steampunk Suspense: There is a distinct excitement and buzz in the air. We are making progress!!!
7. Moody Clouds ~ The Mecha Factory: I was very surprised to find this tune in this soundtrack - it is almost out of place. The Mecha Factory boasts epic music on a grand scale that, in some respects, reminds me of Final Fantasy. It's a tad too short though.
 |
| Copyright, presumably, belongs to Ubisoft |
10. Mystical Pique ~ Scaling the Mountains: Epic "rite of passage" chanting coupled with victorious music.
11. Desert of Dijiridoos - Breaking the Force Field: A variation to the ending part of many levels. Each world has its own version. Pretty cool.
12. World Map ~ Jibberish Jungle: A funky rhythm, cool variations and a nice beat.
13. Gourmand Land ~ Frozen Paradise: A nice calming melody - reminiscent of a place to unwind or have your peace of mind.
 |
| Copyright, presumably, belongs to Ubisoft |
14. Gourmand Land ~ Dashing Thru the Fire: I like this tune purely because it is hilarious. "Ai Ai Ai." The best part is when the deep voice comes on AYYY AYYY AYY. Something appears to be very funny to these singing Mexicans - leaving the rest of us bamboozled as we have no idea what is going on. Perhaps the nature of the theme can best be explained when one considers that the frozen levels of Gourmand Land are suddenly (and quite randomly) replaced by these "hot" Mexican levels.
The expression "Ayy ayy ayy" reminds me of that casual phrase (Aiyah!) that many Asians say when something unfortunate happens.
Special Mention
Gourmand Land ~ Glacier Cocktail: A groovy and upbeat melody. Can't think of where to put it on the list.
Desert of Dijiridoos ~ First Staffs: A steady build up to some nice notes but too overdrawn for me. The shorter version is World Map ~ Desert of Dijiridoos.
Desert of Dijiridoos ~ Lost Beats: Great assortment of tribal rhythms and beats. Deserves a place on the list but I've, unfairly, been unable to decide its position.
Level End ~ Yes More Lums!: A great victory melody worthy of any major platformer! Really should sit at about #5 on the above list.
Sea of Serendipity ~ The Abyss: Dark, mysterious ambient noises coupled with a creepy tune.
Cheers
Andre Lim
Friday, 12 June 2015
Video Game Music: Final Fantasy I
What a great game franchise. I start with #1.
Nobuo Uematsu is a household name that I have grown up with over the years.
I am a bit lazy to describe the tracks listed here so I will keep it to the bare minimum.
Ranked List
1) Matoya's Cave: This has a nice warm and nostalgic feel to it. I feel like I have just arrived home after a long journey.
2) Battle Scene: In terms of tempo or rhythm, more or less similar to many of the earlier (?) battle themes in the Final Fantasy series in its infancy. This probably comes down to the technology available to Nobuo Uematsu (I am thinking of synth music on the Nintendo Entertainment System or the Super Nintendo Entertainment System). When you get to FF7 onwards it seems as though the battle themes became a lot more complex.
 |
| http://www.hardcoregaming101.net/finalfantasy/ff1/ff1-map-psp.jpg |
3) World Map/Main Theme - The sense of exploration and adventure, like all famous world map themes, is replicated very well here.
3) Town: Sentimental and sweet. Touching.
5) Inside a Boss Battle: A rush of blood to the head, this tune encapsulates the frantic action required in a tough boss battle. It feels wrong placing this at #5 but I am not in the mood to play around with this. Potentially it could be #2.
 |
| http://i.ytimg.com/vi/tSZvCgqQiXU/maxresdefault.jpg |
6) Last Battle: Epic organs and a fitting battle music for Chaos, the final boss.
7) Gurugu Volcano (Mt Gulg): An ominous and mysterious tune, yet inviting and bright enough to peak your interest.
8) Ruined Castle: Chilling to the bone - as if something sad has occurred here.
9) Chaos Shrine: Creepy and subtly sinister music
Special Mention
Floating Castle: Music for a sinister and eerie carnival. I really like this theme but can't think of a place to put this on the list.
Victory: This is the typical fanfare melody for the Final Fantasy series.
Prelude: Also a typical staple in the FF series, this theme usually appears at the beginning, or near the beginning, of every Final Fantasy game. There was one game, I think, where it wasn't but I can't recall off the top of my head.
Andre Lim
Saturday, 23 May 2015
Why Ecclesiastes is my favourite book of the Bible
Of course, I do not claim to be an expert on Ecclesiastes but I really must stress that this is my favourite book of the Bible.
In this post, I will just note a few quick points about Ecclesiastes that stand out to me.
The book itself is very deep and has lots of mysteries - every time I read it I either learn something new or think about life from a different angle.
So the points I raise below are certainly not exhaustive.
I'd like to dedicate this post to Uncle Richard, Aunty Jenny, Uncle Ken and Aunty Susanna.
Background
Ecclesiastes is a book written by The Teacher, whom many believe to be Solomon ("son of David, King in Jerusalem": Ecclesiastes 1:1) - the wisest man in the Bible.
Generally speaking it is a book of reflections.
While there are plenty of wise things contained within Ecclesiastes, I believe it differs from Proverbs and Psalms in significant respects.
On one hand, Proverbs seems to me to be a random mish-mash of sayings and adages - all of which are excellent of course. The emphasis here is on wisdom and teachings.
On the other hand, Psalms tends to have verses crying out to God and asking for God's help in times of desperation, trouble and anxiety. The emphasis here is on worship, seeking God's justice and crying out for God's help.
In my view, in Ecclesiastes the meaning of life itself is treated as an entire topic of its own, which is truly quite remarkable. It is an incredibly unique and insightful book that I believe holds the answers to our purpose on this world.
I now randomly list some points about Ecclesiastes.
Interesting points about Ecclesiastes
In this post, I will just note a few quick points about Ecclesiastes that stand out to me.
The book itself is very deep and has lots of mysteries - every time I read it I either learn something new or think about life from a different angle.
So the points I raise below are certainly not exhaustive.
I'd like to dedicate this post to Uncle Richard, Aunty Jenny, Uncle Ken and Aunty Susanna.
Background
Ecclesiastes is a book written by The Teacher, whom many believe to be Solomon ("son of David, King in Jerusalem": Ecclesiastes 1:1) - the wisest man in the Bible.
Generally speaking it is a book of reflections.
While there are plenty of wise things contained within Ecclesiastes, I believe it differs from Proverbs and Psalms in significant respects.
On one hand, Proverbs seems to me to be a random mish-mash of sayings and adages - all of which are excellent of course. The emphasis here is on wisdom and teachings.
On the other hand, Psalms tends to have verses crying out to God and asking for God's help in times of desperation, trouble and anxiety. The emphasis here is on worship, seeking God's justice and crying out for God's help.
In my view, in Ecclesiastes the meaning of life itself is treated as an entire topic of its own, which is truly quite remarkable. It is an incredibly unique and insightful book that I believe holds the answers to our purpose on this world.
I now randomly list some points about Ecclesiastes.
Interesting points about Ecclesiastes
1. Timelessness
"What has been is what will be, and what has been done is what will be done, and there is nothing new under the sun.
Is there a thing of which it is said, "See this is new"?
It has been already in the ages before us.
There is no remembrance of former things, nor will there be any remembrance of later things yet to be among those who come after."
- Ecclesiastes 1:9-11(ESV)Ecclesiastes reminds me that no problem is "new" - every problem has been encountered before at some stage, by someone, in the history of human existence.
While the problem could take on a slightly different look - possibly due to the era we live in and the context in which the problem occurs - we can be "assured" (for lack of a better word) that it has happened at some stage to someone before in some form.
Whether this actually brings comfort to us, I doubt. But what it does tell us is to look at the bigger picture - in the sea of problems faced by people of today, is our problem really worth complaining about?
Of course, we will always have new technology and innovations. But I think the heart of Ecclesiastes deals with the meaning of life and our existence - that is why I feel the passage above has a more global application in that it is dealing with concepts of human experience.
Though we live in the 21st century, the way in which we experience the ebbs and flows of life is likely to be the same as a person living in, say, 1000 BC or in the 1400's. Not everyone may agree with me, but that is what I feel Ecclesiastes is saying.
2. Everything seems pointless
"The sun rises, and the sun goes down, and hastens to the place where it rises.
The wind blows to the south and goes around to the north; around and around goes the wing, and on its circuits the wind returns.
All streams run to the sea, but the sea is not full; to the place where the streams flow, there they flow again."
- Ecclesiastes 1:5-7 (ESV)Another big theme of Ecclesiastes is the author's quest in discovering the futility and vanity of life.
Many things seem pointless.
Why do we bother waking up and going through the motions of the day, only for it to start ALL OVER AGAIN the next day? What are we aiming for? Everything seems like a repetitive cycle!!!
Once we reach the small aim we have achieved, what is next? What is the point? What am I doing here?
I keep doing the same thing day in and day out and it keeps on repeating forever. Is there a point to all of this?
How come I always demand so much out of life? Why are my expectations so high?
Why am I here?
Who am I?
What am I doing?
What am I supposed to be doing?
I believe these are all questions we should directly ask God. Perhaps Ecclesiastes is prompting us to think in this way and to address these deep concerns with God directly - by just simply talking to Him.
3. The World will not satisfy. (Too much of something is bad. Balance is key)
"I said in my heart, “Come now, I will test you with pleasure; enjoy yourself.”
But behold, this also was vanity. I said of laughter, “It is mad,” and of pleasure, “What use is it?”
... I made great works.
I built houses and planted vineyards for myself. I made myself gardens and parks, and planted in them all kinds of fruit trees.
I made myself pools from which to water the forest of growing trees.
I bought male and female slaves, and had slaves who were born in my house.
I had also great possessions of herds and flocks, more than any who had been before me in Jerusalem.
I also gathered for myself silver and gold and the treasure of kings and provinces. I got singers, both men and women, and many concubines, the delight of the sons of man.
So I became great and surpassed all who were before me in Jerusalem. Also my wisdom remained with me. And whatever my eyes desired I did not keep from them.
I kept my heart from no pleasure, for my heart found pleasure in all my toil, and this was my reward for all my toil.
Then I considered all that my hands had done and the toil I had expended in doing it, and behold, all was vanity and a striving after wind, and there was nothing to be gained under the sun."
- Ecclesiastes 2:1-11 (ESV)
The Teacher here OVERLOADED his life with what the world generally considers to be the "good stuff".
- He embarked on a building spree;
- He bought male and female slaves;
- He hoarded great numbers of livestock;
- He stored up treasures and riches; and
- He had his own mistresses or concubines, presumably for sexual purposes.
He had wealth and power.
He had all the sex he could want.
At the end of all of this he realised that it was all a waste of time.
To me this section of Ecclesiastes is very powerful - it shows that material things (even an abundance of them) cannot, and will not, make us truly happy in life.
We do not need to try this experiment of hoarding everything ourselves - the Teacher has already done this on our behalf and he has reported his finding:
Indeed he "kept [his] heart from no pleasure", yet, incredibly, found this all to be "a vanity and a striving after wind."
4. What is the best we can expect from life?
"What has a man from all the toil and striving of heart with which he toils beneath the sun? For all his days are full of sorrow and his work is a vexation. Even in the night his heart does not rest. This also is vanity.
There is nothing better for a person than that he should eat and drink and find enjoyment in his toil. This also, I saw, is from the hand of God, for apart from him, who can eat or who can have enjoyment? For to the one who pleases him God has given wisdom and knowledge and joy, but to the sinner he has given the business of gathering and collecting, only to give to one who pleases God. This also is vanity and a striving after wind."
- Ecclesiastes 2:22-26 (ESV)
"And I commend joy, for man has nothing better under the sun but to eat and drink and be joyful, for this will go with him in his toil through the days of his life that God has given him under the sun."
- Ecclesiastes 8:15 (ESV)
Ecclesiastes promises that one of the best things we can expect in life is for us to enjoy "eating and drinking" and finding enjoyment in our work.
To me these verses are saying that this is as good as it is going to get - enjoying your food and drink and enjoying your work are some of the best things that life has to offer.
Armed with that knowledge, nothing therefore really disappoints me in life. That is to say, I do not really expect that much from this world - the world has, arguably, nothing else to really offer.
However, I should also mention that Ecclesiastes 8 says that there is also nothing better under the sun but to...be joyful. Therefore, there are clearly other things too that can give us something to do under the sun.
Loving and helping others, for example, comes to the top of my head.
While the meaning of "to...be joyful" is open-ended, I do know conclusively that eating and drinking as well as enjoying your own "labour" or "work" are definite joy-bringers.
Who isn't "proud" of their own work?
Who doesn't like to eat and drink?
These two things are directly from the hand of God.
5. Related to Point #2 above, the love of money does not satisfy
"He who loves money will not be satisfied with money, nor he who loves wealth with his income; this also is vanity"
- Ecclesiastes 5:10 (ESV)Self-explanatory.
6. There is a time for everything.
"For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven:
- a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted;
- a time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up;
- a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance;
- a time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing;
- a time to seek, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away;
- a time to tear, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak;
- a time to love, and a time to hate; a time for war, and a time for peace."
- Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 (ESV)
There is a time and place for everything!
I do not know how this works in practice. One might ask for example - when should we ever hate something?
Perhaps we should always hate our complacency, stubbornness to change and sin.
7. Storing things up pointlessly
"To the person who pleases him, God gives wisdom, knowledge and happiness, but to the sinner he gives the task of gathering and storing up wealth to hand it over to the one who pleases God. This too is meaningless, a chasing after the wind."
- Ecclesiastes 2:26 (NIV)What's the point of hoarding - it will just be given to someone else!
8. Death will come to all
"This is the evil in everything that happens under the sun: The same destiny overtakes all. The hearts of people, moreover, are full of evil and there is madness in their hearts while they live, and afterward they join the dead."
- Ecclesiastes 9:3 (NIV)Death is the great equalizer. It impacts both the rich and poor, and evil and good.
It does not discriminate.
9. The Conclusion of the Teacher
"The end of the matter; all has been heard. Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man. For God will bring every deed into judgment, with every secret thing, whether good or evil."
- Ecclesiastes 12:13-14Ecclesiastes ends with a solemn bang.
But if I could summarise the whole book, I'd say that the author is telling us that real contentment and purpose in life can only come from God Himself.
If we chase material things in the absence of God, it will all be pointless.
But if we put God in the centre first, then, for some strange reason, all the material things on this world suddenly have meaning.
In the face of our eventual death, it is God alone who dictates the rhythm of our journey.
Andre Lim
Monday, 11 May 2015
Desktop Balance Chairs
Who says simple is worse?
This is the game that inspired me to continue reviewing board games - it's a breath of fresh air in my collection.
Despite its minimalistic look and components, Desktop Balance Chairs is an incredibly effective dexterity game. All credit goes to my mum for finding this gem of a game.
Trivia: There is a whole line of "Office" or "Desktop" games out there, but I don't think I'll be reviewing all of them. Just know that they all look quite interesting, and they target different crowds :). This one certainly looks one of the most interesting and novel though.
Name: Desktop Balance Chairs (Unknown year - but this looks relatively recent)
Designer: Fizz Creations UK
Publisher: Fizz Creations UK ("Clock-Watcher's Office Games" ???)
The website of Fizz Creations UK notes that the company was "born out of the need to be different". Certainly a promising slogan for the distributor of novelty and creative gifts.
Players: 2+ (But not too many, so probably a maximum of 4. You can go beyond this if people don't mind minimal participation)
Idea: Why not buy two+ packs so you can play with more people? Use custom rules? However this may require some skilled veterans - I can't imagine 36 stacked chairs holding up. Unless you allow for 2 chairs at the base....
Age: Not less than 3 years old (choking hazard!)
Time to play: 10 minutes+
Price Range (AUD): $15.95 to $20 (once shipping is included)
Availability: Widely available online.
Genres:
Andre Lim's Rating and Brief Summary:
Rules & Components (Photos courtesy of my mum, Joanne)
The rules are simple.
The "rulebook" is exhibited on a flat cardboard and says the following:
Eventually stacking the chairs may result in something like this.
It is my experience that the second chair is arguably hardest to place - the rest can be sort of balanced or just dangerously "chucked" onto the pile :)
Enjoy.
Andre Lim
This is the game that inspired me to continue reviewing board games - it's a breath of fresh air in my collection.
 |
| This game reminded me of why I ventured into this hobby in the first place - the pleasant surprise of experiencing a fun game is a great feeling. |
Trivia: There is a whole line of "Office" or "Desktop" games out there, but I don't think I'll be reviewing all of them. Just know that they all look quite interesting, and they target different crowds :). This one certainly looks one of the most interesting and novel though.
Name: Desktop Balance Chairs (Unknown year - but this looks relatively recent)
Designer: Fizz Creations UK
Publisher: Fizz Creations UK ("Clock-Watcher's Office Games" ???)
The website of Fizz Creations UK notes that the company was "born out of the need to be different". Certainly a promising slogan for the distributor of novelty and creative gifts.
Players: 2+ (But not too many, so probably a maximum of 4. You can go beyond this if people don't mind minimal participation)
Idea: Why not buy two+ packs so you can play with more people? Use custom rules? However this may require some skilled veterans - I can't imagine 36 stacked chairs holding up. Unless you allow for 2 chairs at the base....
Age: Not less than 3 years old (choking hazard!)
Time to play: 10 minutes+
Price Range (AUD): $15.95 to $20 (once shipping is included)
Availability: Widely available online.
Genres:
- Party
- Dexterity
- Stacking
Andre Lim's Rating and Brief Summary:
7.0+* out of 10. (Good, perhaps excellent if it's your kind of thing - See my Rating Scale)
Desktop Balance Chairs proves that simple is more than effective.
Players stack 17 chairs on top of ONE LONE CHAIR (Hence 18 chairs are provided in this game)
Obviously this creates a tower of absolute chaos as chair legs dangle and stack mischievously atop another, precariously inviting the next player to fear for their lives when it is their turn to place a chair.
The interesting thing about this game is that the chairs, at least on face value, are designed differently. There are, at least on my counting, 7 different types of chairs included in my pack. For example, one chair will have vertical holes; the other horizontal arches. Another will have 4 square holes where a person sits; another has 2 big holes on the seat. Therefore this creates a considerable variety of stacking positions, angles and opportunities.
Of course, some of the chairs are duplicates, but there is sufficient variety to make things interesting.
I feel that this is a great novel gift. However, of course, as with all things - and perhaps especially this - you may find it a little tedious and repetitive after a while if you keep playing it. That, to me, is the only downside of this game.
There is not much strategy - you just want to stack up chairs as dangerously and ridiculously as possible so as to set up your opponents for failure :)
* I, again, am too hasty with awarding high scores to games. I had a brief glance at all the ratings I've done for games and realised that my initial score of 7.7 was far too generous. While this is a good and novel game, it isn't sufficiently ingenious enough for it to warrant a "Great" score - it's far too simple for that. It is also a bit hard to stack the second chair in some scenarios, depending on what chair you use. Nonetheless this is a good game and I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys the dexterity genre of games.
The Good:
Desktop Balance Chairs proves that simple is more than effective.
Players stack 17 chairs on top of ONE LONE CHAIR (Hence 18 chairs are provided in this game)
Obviously this creates a tower of absolute chaos as chair legs dangle and stack mischievously atop another, precariously inviting the next player to fear for their lives when it is their turn to place a chair.
The interesting thing about this game is that the chairs, at least on face value, are designed differently. There are, at least on my counting, 7 different types of chairs included in my pack. For example, one chair will have vertical holes; the other horizontal arches. Another will have 4 square holes where a person sits; another has 2 big holes on the seat. Therefore this creates a considerable variety of stacking positions, angles and opportunities.
Of course, some of the chairs are duplicates, but there is sufficient variety to make things interesting.
I feel that this is a great novel gift. However, of course, as with all things - and perhaps especially this - you may find it a little tedious and repetitive after a while if you keep playing it. That, to me, is the only downside of this game.
There is not much strategy - you just want to stack up chairs as dangerously and ridiculously as possible so as to set up your opponents for failure :)
* I, again, am too hasty with awarding high scores to games. I had a brief glance at all the ratings I've done for games and realised that my initial score of 7.7 was far too generous. While this is a good and novel game, it isn't sufficiently ingenious enough for it to warrant a "Great" score - it's far too simple for that. It is also a bit hard to stack the second chair in some scenarios, depending on what chair you use. Nonetheless this is a good game and I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys the dexterity genre of games.
The Good:
- Simple
- Novel
- Fun - the chairs come in all shapes and sizes and stack up quite differently
- If playing with more than 2, there is no 'sole winner'; rather there are 'winners' and one loser (whoever causes the chair pile to collapse)
- Portable if put in a small box - can be taken to places to amuse people.
- Supposedly for the office.
- Only 1 loser, and the rest are "winners" - the loser is the one who collapses the whole thing.
The Bad:
- May get repetitive
- Can't play too many players given that only 18 chairs are provided - 2 to 3 is probably ideal. (Unless each player is willing to have minimal participation)
- Plain/bulky packaging.
- Arguably expensive for what you get - roughly $17 for 18 chairs?!
- Perhaps too simplistic?
- Bit hard to stack the second chair depending on the chairs used.
- Spirit of game can be broken when you place chairs upside down!!
What makes this game fun?
Stacking chairs up in a treacherous way so as to set up your opponents for failure is an excellent pursuit.
- This concludes the basic overview of the game.
If you are interested in reading about the components & rules to the game, please read on -
Rules & Components (Photos courtesy of my mum, Joanne)
 |
| All the components of the game 7 different types of chairs on my count? |
The rules are simple.
The "rulebook" is exhibited on a flat cardboard and says the following:
Aim of the game
For one or more players.
Start the game with one chair on the table.
Each player takes it in turns to place a chair on top of the preceding chairs in any way they can.
Make it more difficult for the next player by placing your chair as precariously as possible.
The loser is the person who makes the pile of chairs collapse.
Eventually stacking the chairs may result in something like this.
It is my experience that the second chair is arguably hardest to place - the rest can be sort of balanced or just dangerously "chucked" onto the pile :)
Enjoy.
Andre Lim
Saturday, 2 May 2015
"Numb & Spicy Hot Pot" Flavour Lay's Chips
Probably by new favourite flavour.
But I should refrain from eating too much - who knows what they put in it.
But I should refrain from eating too much - who knows what they put in it.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)