Media Project 4

Sprint Commercial

Comic version of Anda's Game

The comic version of Anda's game is a better display of the gaming society than the written version. It is shorter, but I think the pictures help show a chubby girl with many problems. I could follow it better. The point of Anda's game is to show a society that many of us, myself included, did not know existed. Many people, like Anda, find friendship in this alternate world. Some of the graphics were a bit "Batman like" which made me laugh. The "pows" and "swooshes" were funny. Although it was shorter, I the pictures helped me read it from front to back with surprising interest. I think everyone can relate to someone with gaming issues. My brother lives most of his life in that world and has probably met Anda from time to time. In conclusion, I found the comic version easier to follow as the pictures helped mediate the strange language. The gaming world is still a mystery to me, but both versions shed insight on the distinctive qualities of this alternate society. From gold farming to mercenaries, gamers have their fair share of problems. Outside the realm, gamers face health and motivation problems, though this may be a stereotype. Both versions of Anda’s game display these issues clearly.

Essay Challenge 2-20-08

The movie "Break Up" starring Vince Vaughn portrays the damaging effects of virtual communication. An adult man spends hours of his day swearing at a ten-year-old as he "owns" him in Madden Football. Lack of compassion, intimacy, and fear of reprisal lead people to acting out of character in virtual worlds.

A complete stranger is an ear phone away receiving an ear full. The touchdown dance and the antics following are clear through the audio feed. Even if the person on the other end is a friend, the lack of visual communication causes most people to act differently. This lack of intimacy can be compounded by a lack of compassion if the person is a stranger. Although playing a human seems harmless, the inability to retaliate leads to a feeling of power and invincibility. These psychological tendencies present in verbal communication media often result in serious problems.

What some perceive as a game can be interpreted as very realistic to others. In the virtual world, when people act out of character, their interactions are damaging to general interpersonal relations. Virtual interactions contain a very real human component, and these situations should be taken quite seriously.

Anda's Game

Anda's game is a dynamic account of a woman gamer. The use of slang and voice are astounding. I felt as though I had to focus every channel of my attention just to comprehend the passage. Oddly enough, I got better at reading it as time passed. I almost learned the "language". Anda is trying to enter a clan of gamers. I found it interesting that though they stated that women gamers are better than men, all of the women played men characters.

Anda games from four to six hours a day. She idolizes a gamer known as the "Lizanator". The Lizanator believes that she makes better gamers than boys because they are faster, smarter and they play harder. It appears to me that gamers are a very proud and unique group. The language in Anda's game is strikingly different, but it shows that gamers do in fact speak a language that most of us will not understand.

Finally, I think Anda's game shows how people live vicariously through their characters. In real life, the Lizanator is horizontally challenged, but in the gamespace she is a bad guy killing bad ass. She is sexy and wields a big sword. Perhaps gamers feed of the strength of their characters.

This passage is strange, but it opens a door to the gaming community. It shows differences in language and reasons why many people are addicted to gaming. Anda is a girl who seeks the approval of her peers, just as we all do. Gamers are a strange breed whom may warrant more investigation from yours truly.

Media Project Peer Review

Group who went first: It took me a little while to figure out the relationship to the class, but now that I know you were being sarcastic, I really like it. Excellent reflection of logos. Good incorporation of humor and stereotyping.

Group who went second: Wow, excellent media. At first I didn't like the shaking, but it really fit. Nice shot of the Ugg boots. I hate them. Good portrayal of the university, but again I find the direct application to something we have done in the class vague. I assume it is your face to the world, maybe?

Group who went third: Nothing to critique.

Favorite Essay (What got me here)

During my three years in the Navy, I have learned the secret to a happy and successful life: demanding work provides self worth and gratification. Though at times difficult, I cannot think of another job more rewarding than operating and maintaining a Naval Nuclear Propulsion Plant. As a prototype instructor, a watch stander, and a mentor to staff and students alike, I have realized the impact of effective leadership. The decisions I make drive the outlook of those appointed under and over me. This is my motivation for applying to this program. As the Navy increases my level of responsibility, I increase my level of effort. I can make a difference.

The greatest responsibility I ever foresee undertaking is to command a United States Naval Submarine. I would take this opportunity, and every step leading to it, with the courage and commitment required to obtain it. I uphold diligence in the simple things in life in order to excel in those more complex. Consistency and passion for my work are what define me as a nuclear operator. I offer an infinite desire for personal growth, a thrill for learning, and persistent dedication to the Navy and to those who would select me for this great honor.

Revision Analysis

Jen Heldt appreciates the value of peer revision. Her blog, “Revisions” is directed entirely at peer review. I agree that peer editing is an excellent way to hear someone else’s voice speaking your words. That voice may not match your intent, so she states that peer review is an option, not a requirement. However, I will note that peer review is limited in its effectiveness outside a classroom setting. She should consider the method of personal review, as well as its benefits. I would add that sometimes time is the best tool for reviewing rhetoric, regardless of whether it is self or peer review.

Her blogspot link is as follows:

Jen Heldt Comp 106