New MotM eh? What's this all aboot?

Buckswana

Well it's finally happened... the planets have aligned. Well...the Queen may have bribed me a bit, but it has been determined we should have a Canadian Member of the Moment!  It was bound to happen one of these days... so I hope you are ready!  Here is Mr. Dan Rogers (Buckswana), all the way from Ottawa to answer all the mysteries you and I have about this magical place called Canada.

Q: What do you do in your everyday life?

A: I'm the warehouse manager of a local musical instruments retail store. It's mostly shipping & receiving, and running stuff to salesmen, as well as transferring stock between the other 2 stores that we have. I do occasionally work the sales floor, as well as taking care of all the accounting and daily cash duties when my boss isn't there.

Q: Tell us about how you came up with your gamertag?

A: It was really just a spur of the moment thing. My nickname is Buck, which came from a hockey teammate referring to Buck Rogers while we were playing one night, and it just stuck. When I had to come up with a gamertag, I was trying to think of Buck...something, and for some reason Botswana popped into my head. Buckswana just sounded right, and I really didn't give it a lot of thought at the time. It's been pointed out that it sounds like a variety of piñata...maybe a deer and a swan? Filled with candy...mmm...candy...

Q: As one of the few Canadian residents on the site, explain some differences between your country and the United States?  What are some noticeable places to visit or things to do?

A: Free health care, no guns, lax pot laws (within reason) are probably the biggest differences, lol. Really, it's not that different going from a small town in the US to one here. As for places to visit; I suppose the Parliament buildings here in Ottawa would be one spot to check out. Right downtown, near the canal that cuts through the downtown area. Toronto has the Skydome and CN tower. Montreal has it's own unique style, as well as the yearly F1 race on the island. Vancouver is on the west coast near Seattle, and has a lot warmer winter weather, with a short drive to the mountains for skiing. Every city has it's own feel, and something to do.

Q: Is it true that you must love hockey in order to be a resident of Canada?

A: That's LIVE hockey, actually. And beer and bacon, of course. Poutine is optional. ;)

Q: Besides hockey, are there any other sports you enjoy?

A: I'm a Redskins fan (these are dark times...), as well as some of the more European stuff; F1 Racing and English Premier League Football (soccer). I'm looking forward to the upcoming Olympics as well.

Q: Where did you develop all your amazing musical talent? It obviously shows on your gamercard with 12 musical games completed (more if you count Disney Sing It and Karaoke revolution)?

A: I come from a pretty musical background. My father's a drummer, and started all the kids on piano lessons when I was 6. From there, I learned trumpet and guitar, before finally settling on drums as my main instrument when I was 12. I still play today, but mostly for fun with friends or the odd show to fill in, and don't really tour anymore.

Q: You seem to take being a completionist to heart, what made you decide you wanted to finish everything?  I see a few games that are incompletable though on your card, but still impressive 98.35% including DLC with over 250,000 gamerscore!

A: After I had my console for a bit and got into gamerscore a little more, I remember noticing a couple of games on my card that I had nearly no score in. I went back to them, and found I really enjoyed them the 2nd time around, especially the challenge of trying to bring up their gamerscore, and then finish them, as they were both relatively tough. I had already played a few games that were either incompletable or had ridiculous leaderboard  achievements by that time, so I knew 100% would never happen, which is why I've always promised myself that I'll never avoid playing a game just because I may not complete it. I play games for fun first and foremost, it just so happens that finishing them is a lot of fun for me too. ;)

Q: What are some hobbies that you enjoy other than gaming?

A: Obviously drumming and guitar. Playing hockey, biking and rollerblading are a few others.

Q: How did you find out about 360Voice?

A: I had seen a few people using the blog as a sig in forums, and didn't really know what it was. I came on the site a couple of times, and thought it was kind of cool, so signed up, and ended up in a challenge. It's been so long, but I do remember ZeroDesolation being one of the first people that made me feel like this was a good place to be.

Q: What keeps you coming back?

A: Definitely the sense of community. I've never been much of one for forums and such, but it's different here. The badges are great and add that much more to keep people involved, and the community events and challenges that people create are fantastic.

Q: Is there anything you would add or change about 360Voice?

A: I've never been one for change just for the sake of change, and have always tried to be happy with what I have. As long as everything works, I'm good. The guys running the site do a great job of keeping it doing just that.

Q: There was a new event that was held in Terre Haute, called AchievementFest, what did you think of it?

A: It was a bit of a blur to be honest. In 5 days, I think I slept a total of 13 hours. Getting to meet so many of the people I interact with here, some on a nearly everyday basis, gave me even more of an appreciation for how great the community here is. I could write pages just about that weekend alone, so suffice to say, if you missed it, you missed a great time.

Q: If you could change or add anything to AchievementFest, what would it be and why?

A: Pretty much the same answer as changes to 360v...I'm good. The first is always the toughest to get set up and pull off, so I'm sure they'll just get better from here, and I had no complaints.

Q: Being #1 in Canada for completed Windows Phones games (82), according to TrueAchievements, is outstanding.  Especially when you see smrnov is a part of that group! What are some other leaderboard stats you are proud of?

A: I don't really have any, other than that one I guess, to be honest. Living in the same province as smrnov pretty much excludes me from the top spots on all the leaderboards I look at, but it also helps keeps me humble about my accomplishments. It would be easy to be cock of the walk living somewhere else, but his amazing feats keep me from getting too full of myself.

Q: What is your gaming setup like? Do you have a closet filled with music peripherals?

A: I have 3 US systems; a 20gb Pro, a 120gb Elite, and a Gears of War 3 console, as well as a Japanese arcade console. I run everything except the 20gb one through a Yamaha 5.1 surround sound system, then to a 37" LG HDTV. The 20gb I run through a second smaller tv next to the other for boosting, as well as having everything wired so I can watch tv or play games on either tv (or both) at the same time.

I do have a ridiculous amount of music stuff as well. Rock Band 1 full set, Beatles Rock Band full set and the Guitar Hero World Tour full set, plus extra microphones from various games and a GHII Explorer guitar. So basically, 3 drum kits, 4 guitars and about 6 mics.

Q: How much hard drive space does your entire music collection take up for Rock Band and Guitar Hero?

A: I've actually exported all of the music games I have, so quite a bit. It's around 9gb of Guitar Hero, and 9.5gb of Rock Band songs. I haven't bought any GH DLC, but have bought quite a bit of RB stuff.


Q: Do you like to eat or drink anything while playing? Bacon with maple syrup perhaps?

A: Water or Canada Dry ginger ale to drink. I don't usually eat while I play, unless it's a boosting session with some downtime. I do always have a bowl of chocolate M&M's on the table for emergencies though. Or gummy bears. Something mess free with sugar for 2:30 in the morning before the end of the STEI interval...

Q: Think about the past 7 months, what are your top 5 retail and top 5 XBLA games that were released?

A: I don't often pick up games on release, so hard to say. I'll just give you my top ones; Retail #1 for me is definitely Gears 3. Arcade #1 is Trials Evolution. Both were absolutely fantastic.


Q: Microsoft seems to be doing a better job with the Deals of the Week, and now they have even more deals with the Sales and Specials+ app.  What are some things you would like to see discounted?

A: Stuff I want to buy and haven't bought yet. No, there's not really much.


Q: What are 3 games you are looking forward to in the future?

A: Assassins Creed 3, Halo 4, and something else involving shooting and/or stabbing.

Q: Can you remember what was your first videogame ever played?

A: Pong. The original one with the 2 big paddle wheels. A friend on my street had it, and it was the coolest thing ever at the time.

Q: What are some of your thoughts on Kinect? Epic fail, or has Microsoft developed a unique peripheral that will last?

A: My first thoughts were; junk. I play games to relax, not jump around. That's definitely changed somewhat, after seeing it in action. There are still some games that can be finicky, and not track well, but some others are great fun. If they can get it to track better in a smaller area, I think it'll open it up for a lot more people with space issues.

Q: What are some new and innovative things you would like to see done with the Kinect?  What about the Windows phone, or even the Xbox360?

A: Really, just a better quality camera and tracking in smaller space for Kinect. I love my windows phone, and my only complaint is about creating your own ringtones and text alerts (which isn't much of a complaint). Like I said, I'm good.

Q: Thinking ahead a year or two, do you expect to see the new generation of consoles coming out? What do you think it will be called, priced, and be capable of?

A: I leave speculation for others usually. I don't expect a new console for at least a couple more years, but it's going to be a beast. It's amazing the 360 has gone as long as it has, and the way they've been able to constantly get more out of it in terms of graphics and performance.

Q: What's your favorite genre, and why?  Also, what are some of your favorite games from the genre?

A: A few years ago, it would have been hockey. That was a genre to me, lol. Now, it's all over the map. I suppose music is the biggest, but I enjoy just about anything, if it's done well. I tend to prefer 3rd person shooters to FPS, and don't really play RPG or strategy games much anymore though. Beatles RB is possibly the best music game ever made. Gears of War for shooters, Mass Effect, there are just so many good games.

Q: If you had the choice of introducing the newest instrument to the Rock Band lineup, what would it be?  What are some songs that you would need in the setlist for it to stand out?

A: Soprano Sax. Anything by Kenny G.

Q: A huge issue of gaming, or welcome addition if you're on the other side of the fence, is DLC.  What are your thoughts on it?

A: For the most part, I think it's nothing more than a cash grab. Even more so when you're being charged to unlock content that's already on the retail disc. There have been a few rare exceptions (both the GTA 4 DLC's come to mind), that have been well made, great additions to the main game. Unfortunately, that's not usually the case.

Q: What are some of your proudest completions, what about some of the less prideful ones?

A: Rock Band 1 will always be one of my proudest. Having to do all of the band stuff solo, singing and playing guitar/bass at the same time, was a lot of fun, and challenging on the expert stuff. Being first in Canada to 1k Gears 3 is certainly another. There's a few "cheap" ones on my card (Avatar, MH&M2, Hannah Monatana, etc.), but that doesn't bother me.

Q: Being a completionist it would seem you play games for achievements, but is there anything you like to play for fun with friends?

A: All of the music stuff is a lot fun with friends, no matter the difficulty. I still have "NHL nights" from time to time as well, having friends over and playing nothing but hockey all night.

Q: If you could travel the world, where would you go and why?

A: I've actually already done a lot of traveling. I spent 3 years in Germany as a kid, and we traveled all over Europe, including England, France, Spain, Italy, Austria; anywhere we could go by train. I still think it would be neat to check out Japan, as well as Australia.

Q: Why are all Canadians extremely nice? Do you actually know any who aren't?

A: I know many that aren't. It's all an act; we fake it well.

Q: Is there anything you would like to add or say?

A: Have a good one! 8)

Member of the Moment: FragEmAndSmile

Interview conducted and posted by: Tandar1


Q: You have a very interesting gamertag, how did you come up with it?

A: It all started back on the PC during the Unreal Tournament days. I was playing with a few Marines and had to come up with a tag so we knew who was who. I remembered an old coca-cola catch phrase "Have a coke and a smile". I combined my frag counts in Unreal Tournament with that phrase and came up with FragEmAndSmile....or Frag/FragEm for short.

Q: You recently came up with a few new challenges for the 360Voice community. Such as the U.S. Gamerscore Open and Iron Man. What gave you the idea for creating these, and do you plan to make them annual?

A: The U.S. Gamerscore Open idea really came to me out of nowhere. I wanted to do something "different" for a challenge that hasn't been done before which isn't easy with all the great challenge ideas already out there. This idea just popped in to my head and I thought it was unique enough from the other challenges so I went with it. There were over 90 gamers that signed up for it.

As for the Iron Man challenge, for the most part that was really in response to some complaints that the site staff got because the U.S. Gamerscore Open was only open to U.S. gamers.  I never got any of these complaints personally and I thought it was unfair that the site staff, who had nothing to do with the creation of the challenge, caught flak for it.  When I typed up the challenge invite I made it pretty clear that this was just how the idea of the challenge came to me and was not intended to offend anyone from other countries and that I would do something for them later. I even considered tossing out the U.S. Gamerscore Open completely and not doing any challenges at all, but decided to go ahead and do it.

Both of these challenges will be annual as long as there is interest in them.

Q: I think I remember you mentioning that there were a few more challenges that would be on the horizon, can you confirm this and give any hints to what they might be or involve?

A: I sort of have one going for WP7 gamers now. It's not "official" yet, but it will run for the entire year of 2012 and only games released in 2012 count towards your score. Highest score at the end of the year wins. No prizes are being offered at this time, but I expect that to change. This is more of a test run for Fsh's new challenge/tracking system which will make my day MUCH easier instead of tracking scores manually!

I also have another challenge that I will be putting in the invite forum pretty soon called Last Man Standing.  In this challenge, there is an elimination every single day. You have to score points each day, with the low man being eliminated. Mix and repeat until there is only one gamer left. 0 point scores for that day are an automatic elimination. So with this challenge, not only do you have to score points every day, you have to avoid being the lowest scoring gamer.  Prizes have yet to be determined. This challenge will be open to any region on the planet.

I may or may not add more challenges.

Q: What are some things you like to do other than gaming?

A: I have a programming background and I like to code games when time permits. I still have the 360voice themed game on the backburner. Maybe it will come out quicker than Duke Nuke 'Em Forever did.  I also bowl at a semi-professional level. This cuts out 2 nights a week and the occassional weekend (for tournaments) of gaming time, but sometimes you just need a break.  That's pretty much it. I just don't have to time to commit to anything else on a regular basis.

Q: Are you excited to be living in the town that such famous people originated from? People like Deion Branch and Ray Charles?

A: While it's cool to know some famous people came from here, Albany GA is nothing to be excited about.

Q: What are some things that are specific to your town that you would recommend to travelers, and the occasional Dog of Thunder?

A: Dog lives about an hour's drive from me so he doesn't have to dwell in the misery that is Albany that I do. There is one unique eating establishment called Harvest Moon that has some good food, but it's not something I would drive for hours to get to. The mall here is the size of a shoe-box, the closest thing we have to an electronics store is WalMart. There are 3 Gamestops here, but it's rare that I find anything to take home. The selections don't change as much as other stores I go to so I see the same titles day in and day out. I call Albany Agony but I live here because I have to not because I want to.  I'm hoping that changes in about a year or so. The only thing I could really recommend is to stay away from this place. Avoid it like the plague.

Q: Do you have any favorite sports teams? Die-hard fan or just occasional watcher?

A: Not since I got married almost 11 years ago. I did watch the Atlanta Braves, but like most Georgia teams, they blow critical games so I gave up on them.  I do like Florida State's football team but I haven't watched a game in ages. What little free time I do have I try to spend it gaming.

Q: If you had to pick only one genre to play for an entire year, which one would it be, and why?

A: That would depend on what platform I'd be playing on. If it was the PC, I'd have to say RTS. Ever since I played the original StarCraft I was hooked.  This has been my favorite genre for many years.  On the 360 I would probably go with RPG. These are the most involved, have engaging stories (most of the time), and would keep me busy until the end of the year.

Q: How did you eventually stumble upon 360Voice?

A: If I remember right, I think a friend suggested it to me back in 2006.

Q: What keeps you coming back?

A: That's easy. 360voice's community is the best on the web. I've been to many gaming sites where you just didn't feel welcomed at all and some of the forum mods were down right jerks. They got a title and it went straight to their head and had no problem throwing their virtual weight around. The 360voice community is the most friendly, helpful (I could go on and on here) bunch of people I've ever met. I have never  experienced anything close to this on any other website gaming or otherwise.

Q: If the next generation of Xbox, for some CRAZY reason, did not incorporate your past gamertag/gamerscore into its design and made you start over, would you still buy one?

A: Starting over would be painful. I think I would continue on with the 360 and get as much out of it as I could. Eventually I would probably move over to the new console but I doubt I would be there on launch day with money in hand to buy one. I've even considered to let the 360 to be my last console period. Only time will tell.

Q: Do you play games for fun or achievements?

A: Both. The 360's achievement system changed the way we play games forever. Why else would so many of us play Hannah Montana or My Horse And Me 2? I love to play games and there are some that I play just for fun. However, I'm usually in some gamerscore contest or trying to hit some gamerscore milestone that forces me to play for points too. Not that I mind all that much.

Q: Do you like single-player only games more than multi-player or vice versa? Or a combination of both?

A: Both, but for the last year and a half, it's been almost impossible for me to do any real multiplayer gaming. Ask anyone that's tried to boost with me.  It seems that EVERY time I try to set something up or offer to help out, some crisis comes up where I have to reschedule. This is no exaggeration. I really hate not getting to play online like I used to. I keep hoping that will soon change.

Q: Be honest, who has more videogames (including XBLA), you or Mightymango?

A: Hands down, Mango. He and I went back and forth a while back swapping places on the games played leaderboard which was fun, but I had to back off game buying last year big time for personal reasons. I did have a surge around Christmas which put me back at the #2 spot on the 360Voice games played leaderboard recently, but Mango is still pretty far ahead of me. I still can't buy games like I used to so I suspect Mango will stay ahead of me.

Q: How did you get started in collecting videogames? What keeps you wanting to continue to collect and "catch 'em all"?

A: After the original Pong home console where all the games were built-in, I got the Atari 2600. That's where it started. The market was flooded with games (most weren't any good) and the prices were cheap. Even as I kid I managed to rack up quite a collection of 2600 games that would rival my 360 collection. I owned just about every console out there and had most of the games for each system. Sadly, all my other game systems, and I do mean all of them, I had to sell a few years ago. Sometimes I really miss the Neo Geo (home and arcade) and the Turbo Graphix 16/Duo consoles. It is what it is.

Q: Do you currently count Indie games as a part of your collection? Do you even purchase them? Why or why not?

A: I do love the indie scene but I do not have any of the games nor would I count them as part of my "collection". I count games (or apps like ESPN) that show up on our blogs/xbox live.

Q: How long have you been an Xbox Live Gold Member and what keeps you paying that subscription fee?

A: My console says 5 years. You get to play a lot of games for a small price that's lower than most PC games that require a monthly subscription for just one game.

Q: Are you using any of the extra services provided? Such as Netflix (if you're already a Netflix member), ESPN3, UFC fights, Facebook, or Twitter?

A: I'm not using any of these services right now.

Q: If you could change or add one thing to Xbox Live, what would it be and why?

A: I'd make game developers/publishers that use their own servers to no longer have online achievements. I hate it when we have to scramble to beat a server going down.  I understand why they take their games offline, but don't take away our ability to earn achievements. Not everyone can buy the latest sports game only to have the achievements unobtainable in less than a year's time (in some cases).

Q: Out of the latest technology brought into the gaming world, what is your favorite, and why? [Kinect/Windows phone/3D Gaming, Cloud Saves]

A: Kinect is a neat idea, but I'm not sure it's "there" yet. 3D Gaming will further enhance the experience and I look forward to seeing where this goes.

Q: You are roughly 19,000GS away from hitting 200k! Do you have anything special planned?

A: No I do not have anything currently planned.

Q: Tell us a little about your favorite badges on 360Voice, and what kind of badges you would create if you could?

A: Since I'm a game collector, I would go with the collection badges. As for a new badge, why not have a # of games played badge? We have one for # days played, watchers, etc.  You can never have too many badges.

Q: If you could add or change one thing on 360Voice, what would it be and why?

A: The site is constantly changing/evolving. I don't know of anything right now.

Q: Any particular beverage or food you like to have laying around while you are gaming?

A: Soda of various flavors. I don't like to eat and game.

Q: What kind of gaming setup do you currently have?

A: In the "achievement room" that is a 9' x 12' room. I have a 42" LG flatscreen with a 500watt surround sound system. 2 - 504 capacity DVD racks, and 2 smaller DVD racks 1 of each on both sides of the room. I sit in a recliner. I have all 3 region consoles and gaming PC attached to the TV via HDMI and I use wireless keyboard and mouse for the PC so I rarely have to get up once I start gaming. In the living room, where I have to use the Kinect, I have an older Phillips 55" rear projection big screen to play on. It's rare that I can get the Mrs. away from it long enough to use the Kinect though.  I'm working on getting a new house built so that I won't have this problem anymore, but that is a ways off.

Q: What was the very first videogame you remember playing?

A: Pong

Q: What was the first game you started on the Xbox360? Did you get all the achievements?

A: Blazing Angels. No I never went back and finished it. Maybe one day.

Q: BoZack is currently planning for an "Achievement Fest" during the Summer, do you plan to attend? Who are some people you would hope to meet if you can make it?

A: I would like to attend and I'm going to try. It's a 12 hour drive for me though. The event is too far out to know for sure just yet. I'd like to met a lot of great people over the years at 360voice.  I'd be happy to meet any of them.

Q: Tell us some details of your life away from gaming, what type of job do you have? Any family members?

A: My job takes up 90% of my time. I'm in the IT business. I mainly work on servers, routers, switches, desktops, and laptops across a 100+ square mile radius in any direction.  I'm on the road a lot and usually barely have enough time to update the tournament leaderboards and pop in a game long enough to get an achievement.

Q: You drive around a lot, do you listen to any particular music or podcasts during your travels?

A: I just got a new ride back in November that has a Satelite radio in it so I've been playing with that.

Q: What are your thoughts on how Microsoft handles their security? Especially with the recent Fifa hacks, do you feel safer than a PS3 member?

A: I think overall they're doing a decent job. After what Sony went thru I would say M$ is doing a better job keeping their clients info safer.

Q: DLC, practically every game nowadays ships with it planned. Do you ever buy any, or are you satisfied enough with having the original game in your collection?

A: I get some DLC, especially if it's for a game I really like or has additional achievements.

Q: What are your thoughts on SOPA and PIPA, are you for or against them?

A: As an amature developer myself, I wouldn't like someone stealing my work so I don't do it either.

Q: Do you watch any movies? What are some of your favorites?

A: Recently watched Underworld 4 and I did like most of the series. Anything science fiction related really.

Q: 2011 was a year packed with AAA titles, what were your 10 favorite games released (XBLA and Retail)?

A: I enjoyed Gears 3, Modern Warfare 3, Shadows of the Damned, and I'm sure I'm leaving out several other good ones but the mind draws blank.

Q: Any New Year resolutions you have to accomplish in 2012?

A: I would like to break 300,000 in gamerscore by the end of the year but at the rate I'm going (5.0% last I looked on TA) I'm not going to make it.  Just not enough hours in the day with my schedule.

Q: Do you ever wait for videogames to go on sale, or do you regularly buy them on release-day?

A: I rarely get a game on release day and most of my games I get used. It's how I get so many of them.

Q: In a regular workday, how many miles do you drive? What vehicle are you driving such long voyages in?

A: In a 5 day work week, it's not uncommon for me to do 1,000 miles or more. I drive a 2012 Kia Sportage SUV. I got it back in November to replace my 2005 of the same make/model. It had over 300,000 miles on it.

Q: Anything else you would like to add? Say hi to mom, or taunt your nemesis?

A: If I have a nemesis, I don't know it so if he/she wants to reveal themself, bring it!

Member of the Moment: BoZack

Interview conducted and posted by: Tandar1

A college graduate from the prestigious Rose-Hulman, and long time gamer Zack Johnson (BoZack) was able to spend some time in-between swapping out consoles and games for customers in his business he started from the ground up. Congratulations on the success of eBash and we all hope it will bring many more years from your hard work and dedication to getting it started! Also, happy late anniversary!

Q: To better understand the man behind the tag, tell us a bit about yourself. Where are you from? What do you do?

A: I was born near Chicago, lived in North Dakota when I was young before we moved to Terre Haute, IN. I spent 4 years in Arlington, TX (Dallas/Ft.worth) while my dad went back to school for his Theology Masters Degree (Yep, I am a preacher's kid) and our family returned to Terre Haute to start a church. I played basketball throughout high school and then at the collegiate level while getting my BSME from Rose-Hulman. As soon as I graduated I started my first company designing web software and have not stopped starting new businesses since.

Q: Family members or any pets?

A: I got lucky and tricked a beautiful woman to marry me based on promises of fame and riches. Fortunately she still believes that and we recently celebrated our 15th year anniversary. Being self employed is a challenge sometimes. The pros outweigh the cons, but simple things like health-insurance and taxes would be way more simple working for a big company.

I have a son who just turned 11 and is in his last year of elementary and a brand new daughter who is 6 months old. What a crazy dynamic, but totally awesome. We have two dogs, both boxers, that live inside and out depending on how much trouble they are in at the time. I also have a 220 gallon fish tank at the store. I have been an avid S. American cichlid guy since college, at one time having over 50 tank breeding set-up on a custom made central filtration system.

Q: How did you come up with your gamertag?

A: In college playing basketball my freshmen year some of the seniors gave me the nickname BoZack from the song “Jump Around” by House of Pain. I got a personalized license plate the next year for my car with that name (I can’t believe the state allowed it) and it was only natural I used it for my gamertag.

Q: As the man who created eBash from the ground up, what gave you the idea? Is there anything you would like to accomplish in the future with eBash?

A: We got the idea from hosting youth events at church. We would have the kids all bring their systems (original Xbox) and network them together for all night Halo LAN parties. It was a bunch of fun, but a TON of work. I thought to myself why don’t we have this stuff set-up all of the time somewhere? LAN centers at the time were dark open rooms with a bunch of bearded freaks playing Counterstrike on PC. We took it a step further with private room and a mix of consoles and PCs, with a bright friendly feel to the store so parents don’t have a problem dropping the kids off for a few hours.

In the future I would love to get 25+ stores all around the US. We started franchising in 2009 and we have one additional store in Evansville, IN. I am currently looking at space in the Indianapolis area to start another store, but to get the deals with publishers we really need them on the east and west coast as well as the south parts of the US. Anyone out there interesting in opening a store?

Q: How did you find out about 360voice.com?

A: Honestly I think I was browsing through the forums at x360a a few years ago looking for challenges using gamerscore. Someone had a post to check out the site and for a few days I didn’t really get it. The blogging was cool, but once I started using the forums and the challenge system things got really awesome.

Q: What is your favorite aspect of 360voice.com?

A: The events. Hands down that is the most unique and cool thing about the site. Not just the challenge system, but all of the member and 3VCE stuff that is operated in the forums. Truly a hidden gem of the site.

Q: What's your favorite type of genre and why?

A: Using this opportunity as a soap box, I would REALLY like to see a Kinect genre on 360v. I know some of the Kinect games have been placed in other genres because of their content, but honestly I can't think of a better use of the genre system than Kinect games. Not games which have a couple mini-games on the Kinect like Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1, but full blown Kinect required games. 1000G in Kung Fu Panda 2 is not difficult, but I physically felt like I earned every single one of those points when I was done.

Q: How long have you been a member of Xbox Live? What is your favorite part about the service, and do you feel like you get your money's worth?

A: I was actually a beta tester for LIVE, so I should get that coveted “9” next to my tag soon. Because I started an ISP I had access to extremely high speed lines (at the time) and the beta was actually a blast. Talking LIVE to someone with a headset while we all raced to an RC racing game (that was never released) was unforgettable.

Q: I see you started playing the free to download Age of Empires Online, do you feel like you will be buying the expansion packs to unlock the current 1150 gamerscore? Do you think more games will follow in these footsteps, and what is your preference?

A: My son and I love RTS games on the PC, so this was a natural for us. We have both bought one of the premium civilizations each, so we have dropped $40 together on the game. I don’t know if I feel either way on this style of game. From an achievement standpoint it is way worse than standard DLC, since you have to buy stuff right from the beginning for many of the achievements. However being a fan of the game I am not opposed to it on this particular game.

Q: Your gamerpic seems to suggest you set a Guinness World Record, did you? What was it for?

A: I wish it was something cool, but it was just a promotion that MS ran for Kinect Sports a few months back. It was kind of clunky to follow all of the steps to register, so not many of us actually got the gamerpic and avatar shirt from the event. I guess that makes it sort of cool. :) All we did was run the 100m dash at the exact same time (1 PM EST) on a Saturday afternoon with a few million other gamers on Xbox LIVE.

Q: Is there anything you would like to see added to 360voice that could make it better?

A: I have said this before and I know the guys are busy full time just doing the regular events and maintenance of the site, but I will mention it again. I think the front page of the site needs a complete overhaul, bringing to front the competitive aspects on the backside. When you visit 360voice the feature of having your Xbox blog is really front-and-center and everything else seems to take a back seat.

Q: Have you ever met anyone from 360voice, or is there someone you would like to meet?

A: JB330 is from Indy and has been over to eBash a couple of times during our recent competitions together (Mega Challenge, HERBIE). It is great to meet people in real life and they are never what you think. JB I won’t tell you what I expected to see when you came over the first time, as I bet you had the same thoughts when meeting me. Hahaha!

Q: You have a lot of nice badges displayed on your blog, what are a few of your favorites and why?

A: The collection badges are pretty unique, but obviously I should have those owning a gaming store. I also like my Iron Man badge but I wish my completion percentage was much higher.

Q: What did you create to earn the API samurai badge?

A: When I was running the team portion of this year’s Mega Challenge I wrote some code to pull scores using the 360voice API system. I took the time to write down the process I used and put it in the forums for others to use.

Q: You recently created and started a unique challenge called the "Fall eBash Gamers Group" or EGG for short. Tell us a little about the challenge and how you thought up the idea?

A: After 6 months of SERIOUSLY DIEHARD challenges I wanted to start something that players could participate in at a lower key level that wasn’t based on unlocking tons of achievements. Also, selfishly, I want to throw in some weekly themes that will motivate myself to play and thought others might like the same “prodding”.

Q: Football season just began, do you enjoy watching the sport? Who is your favorite team?

A: I played basketball through high school and college but at the professional level I love watching football. Of course I am a Colts fan. Yes, even without Manning.

Q: Do you eat or drink anything that helps keep you gaming into the wee hours of the morning?

A: Funny you should ask, at the store our gaming drink for years was BAWLS energy drink. But a few years ago the company that created the drink went through bankruptcy and sold to new owners. Finally we are working with them to get the drinks back in our store. I can’t wait!

Q: What's your current gaming setup?

A: For owning a game center, it is pretty lame. We have a 52” Sony in our living room and my systems all sit below it.

Q: Do you use any guides or videos when playing games to help you unlock certain achievements?

A: I almost always use x360a for guides. However for choosing games based on length and difficulty the ARS built by Fafhrdd is pretty awesome.

Q: Are there any other consoles that sit alongside your Xbox360?

A: PS3, Wii, and my Japanese Xbox 360. I would like to say my home set-up gets used a ton for gaming, but most of my gaming happens at the store.

Q: What's your take on Games for Windows Live games? Do you see a difference playing a game on the PC?

A: In college we played a game called Warlords 2 on the computer that was my first true addiction in gaming. I remember one winter break I played about 16 hours per day. As a turn-based strategy game some of the games would take 4-5 hours. When I discovered the RTS genre it was like heaven. There is no question that RTS games were made for the computer. I love the idea of one integrated gaming ID (gamertag) across multiple platforms.

Q: I can see from your card you have played a few Kinect games, what do you think about the new peripheral?

A: I love the Kinect. That is probably the one thing that we use at home somewhat regularly. I think that things like this are not going to “take over” gaming, we are all too lazy. But boy does my love of achievements help get a nice workout every now and then.

Q: Do you feel like the technology has helped get you more active while playing videogames?

A: No question about it. It actually makes me realize what terrible shape I am in compared to my days of playing competitive sports. 10 minutes with Kinect Wipeout and I am curled up on the floor gasping for air.

Q: What are some things you dislike about the Kinect?

A: I know it might seem picky, but I like to play in my normal attire of athletic shorts and a t-shirt. It seems like the Kinect really has trouble recognizing my leg placement. A person would have to wear a wrestling singlet to be able to get the perfect recognition from the Kinect camera.

Q: Is there a certain game you would like to see utilize the Kinect in some way?

A: My son and I are really looking forward to Kinect Star Wars. I sure hope we aren’t disappointed. So many games that came out for the Wii appeared to be perfect for that system but then playing them really sucked.

Q: Can you remember the very first videogame you ever played?

A: Wow, that was a long time ago. I know the first one that made an impact on me was probably either Popeye or Boulderdash back on our Atari 800XL. I remember my dad buying that with the “hope” that it was an educational purchase and not just for gaming. The only thing that it ever did besides gaming was when he would print “Happy Birthday” banners for us to hang up on the morning we woke up on our birthdays.

Q: What do you think about "DLC"? Do you feel cheated when DLC is announced on the same day the game comes out?

A: Not really, it is totally a business move to try and get a bit more from gamers. I honestly do not mind DLC except that I would prefer to have a disc option also because of eBash.

Q: There seems to be a new marketing scheme coming out, which is the introduction of "Passes". In an attempt to decrease the amount of used games being sold, companies are locking out multiplayer unless you have a certain code included in new copies. What are your thoughts on this system, and has it made you think twice about buying from a company who does this?

A: This REALLY makes me mad when I look at it from our store’s perspective. It is VERY hard to make it work in a building with tons of Xbox stations but we want to share 4 copies of Madden 12 all over the store. I actually prefer the new method of one code up front that unlocks all future content, similar to the Bad Company 2 VIP pass. However we will have to see these new programs like CoD Elite that have a monthly fee. I am not sure paying monthly for a few extra stats and access to DLC that comes out every other month will be worth it.

Q: If it was the last pizza you were ever going to eat, what would be on it?

A: I was always straight-up pepperoni, but my wife has coaxed me into a more daring lifestyle when it comes to food. I would say for the last pizza in my life let’s load that bad boy up with everything!

Q: Lots of blockbuster movies were released this summer, what were your top 3? What did you like about them?

A: Honestly with the new baby it is very hard for us to get to the theater. The only one we made sure to watch was the last Harry Potter with our son. We loved the series and read all of the books together as a family so the rest of the movies would not even be a close second if we had time to watch them.

Q: What was your biggest sleeper hit of 2010 (retail or arcade)?

A: Not that it was a sleeper, but I would have to say Red Dead Redemption was probably the biggest surprise for us at the store.

Q: What are your top 5 favorite games from this year?

A: I am loving Gears 3, so put that up there. As a family we just discovered Plants vs. Zombies a few months ago and loved that one. Age of Empires Online for the PC has to be up there too. I would round the top 5 off with Kinect Adventures and Man vs. Wild. Hahahahahaha! Can you imagine if someone actually picked Man vs. Wild as a good game? I love the show, but man in today’s age of gaming that title was torture.

Q: There seems to be quite a few AAA titles being released in the coming months, name 3 that stand out to you and why?

A: This game release season is just insane. From our store’s perspective we are going to go crazy with Gears 3 and Modern Warfare 3 with tournaments and events. I believe Battlefield 3 will be big on the PC to round out our top 3. But thinking about how many other AAA titles are coming out makes my head spin. Skyrim, Forza 4, Uncharted 3 and Batman will be huge single player hits at the store. The re-release of Halo CE, Assassin's Creed Revelations, MarioKart 7 and the new Zelda will also be big.

Q: Are you planning on buying Gears of War 3? If so, are you excited for 360voice's very own achievement challenge? How do you think you will fare?

A: One thing I take for granted owning eBash is the fact that I don’t really buy games at home anymore. Every now and then I will buy one. Gears 3 just *might* be one that I buy at home because bringing a copy from the store might not cut it long term. The brotherhood challenge is so good on so many levels. Dog of Thunder and Fshguy are doing amazing things with the site.

Q: Do you play games for fun or do achievements play a role when you look at what to play next?

A: No question, it is hard for me to play any title for fun anymore. My son’s favorite thing to tell me is “Dad, why can’t we just play this game for fun instead of trying for achievements?”.

Q: Do you prefer single player or multi? Why?

A: Actually I love both equally if that is possible. Sometimes I am in a mood to just play by myself and I like the ability to pause the game when I am at the store to answer the phone or help a customer. But there is also nothing quite like the feeling of having a full team of guys from the store playing with me in the same room and going for 30 wins in-a-row for in a Halo, Call of Duty or Gears game.

Q: What are some achievements that you like to show off to your friends?

A: The full 1000G in Civilization Revolution was pretty awesome, especially when I did them all legit with basic single player games and not custom scenarios. The one that I always tell everyone that started it all was Need for Speed Most Wanted. That was the first 360 game that I really went after all of the achievements and we simultaneously held a tournament for it at the store and no one else had a chance against me.

Q: Is there anything else that you would like to share with everyone, or any shout-outs?

A: I mentioned this a couple guys earlier, but really everyone here on 360voice that contributes to make the challenges and events run smoothly get high marks in my book. This is truly a community-ran site and the passion for gaming (and achievements) really brings out the best in so many people. The Gears of War 3 brotherhood challenge is a perfect example of thinking outside the box and then putting in the time to make a great event for all of Xbox LIVE to enjoy. Speaking of... I had better drop the game in so I can carry Elem3ntal80 through more Gears 3 multiplayer. Hahahaha!