Justify Phil’s completely ridiculous potential purchase. OR NOT.
February 1st, 2010 | by Phil |February 16th is a very important day for me this year; I have a test that I really need to pass. I want to be a TSgt, not just because I have been an SSgt for way to long, but also I feel the need to have the next level of responsibility.
I am not sure how to explain it, but I’m worried I am not trying hard enough. I do study, but I flash forward in my mind to the day they announce the ranks and when my name is not on it I will just be kicking myself for not trying just that little bit more. I just want this so bad and not just for myself, but to help secure my future with TJ and any of our hypothetical children (I’m shooting for twins, cause why not). So these last few days of being ill and just being plain busy have made me very concerned about the looming date. I have made myself a deal though, even though with TJ gone this is going to be even harder, I will not play any form of video game what so ever until after my test. The days leading up to the test will only be filled with study, taking Brinkley to the park, and maybe the TV on, if only to have background noise.
So if I can do this I think I should get a gift of sorts, say either Dragon Age: Origins or Star Trek online. I am not sure which to get, but I think one of them will magically appear that day. Then of course in June when I find out the results of the test and they tell me that I am a new TSgt I think a present of the 52 inch tv variety would be in order. What do you think, Internet?
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The above was written by Phil, but the Internet should be aware that we already own two quite satisfactorily large televisions and also a bedroom television and there are only two of us and for the love of pete I don’t understand why, if your current television is big enough, you need an even bigger television, especially at the cost of televisions these days, what with all of their bells and whistles and whatnot, and I’m not saying that Phil doesn’t deserve some kind of pat on the back should he pass his exam, but did you not see that he is rewarding himself with a video game for the mere act of taking the exam, and then he’s supposed to get 50 some odd inches of television if he passes it, almost as many inches of television, I might add, as there are inches of his girlfriend, if we’re speaking in terms of height and height only because if you think you’re coming at me with a tape measure to check how many inches of me there are, you have got another think coming, you buttcake and you know what? Forget it. No televisions for anyone, you jerks. — TJ
By Tchann on Feb 1, 2010
I say go for DA:O, mainly because I also want to play it and I find ST:O to be blisteringly boring (this is significant as I’m a trekkie raised by trekkies).
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Adlib Reply:
February 1st, 2010 at 2:10 pm
I forgot to add to mine that I vote for DA:O too because I’ve heard great things about it and plan to get it myself. Plus, I’ve heard exactly what Tchann said about ST:O also.
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Phil Reply:
February 1st, 2010 at 4:54 pm
Thanks, It seems that DA:O is winning by a landslide.
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By Adlib on Feb 1, 2010
I am on board with the video game thing totally. It’s something to look forward to once the Big Test Day is over and motivation to study and work hard and do well on it.
I am on the fence with the TV though. It depends on how big the other two are. My husband & I have a really nice 40″ TV we bought with wedding present money, and he still wonders if we should have gotten something bigger. *eye roll* Count me as neutral on the TV thing.
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Phil Reply:
February 1st, 2010 at 4:56 pm
I have an older projection TV that I bought when I got back from Saudi that I would like to replace. Mostly I just want a big TV and am looking for a way to get TJ on board.
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Adlib Reply:
February 1st, 2010 at 6:56 pm
Omg, do it then. I hate projection TVs and wonder how anyone can stand watching them. I’m not saying go the 52″ route, but anything LCD or Plasma would be good.
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TJ Reply:
February 1st, 2010 at 9:15 pm
We HAVE an LCD TV and it’s a PERFECT SIZE.
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Adlib Reply:
February 2nd, 2010 at 5:52 am
Oh well that’s different then! He conveniently mentioned the old one and didn’t say you already had an LCD tv.
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By Awlbiste on Feb 1, 2010
I say video game purchase for studying hard, cos you ARE studying way hard right? makes total sense.
I dunno about extra TV though. Maybe there’s some other cool thing that isn’t a whole extra TV?
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Phil Reply:
February 1st, 2010 at 4:58 pm
Well I do need a PS3…
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Adlib Reply:
February 1st, 2010 at 6:57 pm
I’m sorry, TJ, but this is also a good idea. PS3 and new TV rocks the hizzouse! (Yes, I just said that. Dunno why.)
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By Becky on Feb 1, 2010
I don’t play video games, but my husband does and he wants to get the Dragon one – he’s heard/read good things, apparently. He also wants a huge TV. I told him that if he wins the lottery or gets some sort of bonus that will pay for the whole thing he can go right ahead. Since that seems unlikely I think we are safe. Until then, no way. Especially since I’m looking at 10 weeks of unpaid leave starting anytime here.
I also don’t understand the TV thing. House comes in perfectly fine on the TV we have. What more do you want?
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Phil Reply:
February 1st, 2010 at 4:59 pm
I want to see Hugh Laurie from space. I guess I just like the theater experience without the theater.
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By Rachael on Feb 1, 2010
Go for Dragon Age, phil!! Good luck on your test :)
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Phil Reply:
February 1st, 2010 at 5:00 pm
Thank you very much. I appreciate it.
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By Capn John on Feb 1, 2010
When you move into your new house, how many televisions will you be taking with you? Obviously the bedroom television, plus one of the large televisions?
I’m a guy and even I say that’s enough TVs for the two of you. Especially considering I seem to recall you saying you prefer to watch the bedroom TV so that means Phil pretty much has the other TV all to himself, right?
Sorry, Phil. I can’t back you up this time.
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TJ Reply:
February 1st, 2010 at 3:17 pm
The bedroom TV AND the two big TVs are his.
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Phil Reply:
February 1st, 2010 at 5:12 pm
I own 3, one needs the convergence resistors repaired and I have zero experience in television repair. I will give it a try one of these days though. I loved that TV.
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Capn John Reply:
February 1st, 2010 at 6:48 pm
So if you do get it fixed, and you get a new TV, that will make 4 TVs. Dude, that really is too many TVs. Skip the TV and get yourself BOTH games.
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By MoCo Mom on Feb 1, 2010
Sorry Phil. When you’re over 50, and have been married over 20 years, like Mr. MoCo, THEN you can get the 52 inch telly. Which he just did. Which I’m not exactly thrilled with, even though I did give in and say yes. Before I knew that ‘the package’ would include 2 HD DVRs, new satellite, new service etc.. Have you picked up on my tension? My passive-aggressiveness? My frustration that said TV-o-rama has replaced the budget for family to go to goddam Italy for my own goddam 50th? That’s what I get for saying Yes. (The first time, 23 years ago, as well as for the TV). Umm, GTG and find the red wine.
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Phil Reply:
February 1st, 2010 at 5:16 pm
I agree that when it comes to tech one thing leads to another then another. I would go with two bottles of red. :)
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MoCo Mom Reply:
February 1st, 2010 at 8:02 pm
Yep, it’s an endless loop. And, why stop at two (bottles)?
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By Swistle on Feb 1, 2010
I agree that if Phil goes 2 weeks with no video games (assuming he replaces the time with studying, not with, say, watching all the seasons of ER back to back), he should get a treat along the lines of the two things he mentioned, whatever those are.
He should get another treat if he passes, but not the TV.
There. I have weighed in as requested.
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Phil Reply:
February 1st, 2010 at 5:18 pm
I have not watched as much TV as I used too. Though when TJ and I decide to watch something it’s usually in entire season bursts.
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By Jaffa on Feb 1, 2010
Neither. Bayonetta!
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Phil Reply:
February 1st, 2010 at 5:19 pm
the Zero Punctuation review kind of turned me off of it, though it does look interesting and I think I will rent it.
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Craig Reply:
February 2nd, 2010 at 8:33 am
I played the demo of Dragon Age Origins and it kinda sucked. Star Trek Online looks boring. I would recommend Dante’s Inferno or Bayonetta for certain.
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Llinkla Reply:
February 2nd, 2010 at 11:03 pm
Agreed! From someone who was totally turned off by it at first do yourself a favor and at least try it. Most of our friends totally love it or totally hate it, we loved it.
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By Delicia on Feb 1, 2010
I just bought DA:O on Saturday.. I got as far as making a character, and my husband had to run out and buy himself a copy.
We played it way too much this weekend, and it’s fun. Story is great, graphics are great, lots of humor. I’d definately recommend it and I think if Phil can go cold turkey til he takes the test to focus on studying he more than deserves it.
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Phil Reply:
February 1st, 2010 at 5:25 pm
Did you get the PC or 360 version?
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By Rhonda on Feb 1, 2010
For what it’s worth I vote yes to video game and suggest Dragon Age over Star Trek online. My flatmate got Star Trek and it seems like the servers are always down, or full. So kind of unplayable.
On the TV question, seriously why do you need more than 2? The better option would be a data projector and have big screen movies at home.
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Phil Reply:
February 1st, 2010 at 5:27 pm
It seems like DA:O is the winner, also my WoW addiction will just take over again.
Office
Living room
Bedroom
Kitchen
Though two is most likely fine.
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By Julie on Feb 1, 2010
I vote you get the TV if you tell Michael I need a new alienware laptop. I am not scheduled for any tests, but chemo will be over soon, maybe that qualifies.
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Phil Reply:
February 1st, 2010 at 5:33 pm
Well I heard from a guy that the Alienware M17x alleviates the harmful side effects of chemo and for everyone sold a unicorn is saved. Won’t you think of the Unicorns Michael?
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By TheWicked on Feb 1, 2010
I would recommend Borderlands over both of those. However if you’re not interested in Borderlands, I’d go with Dragon Age.
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Phil Reply:
February 1st, 2010 at 5:38 pm
I was very interested in that game for a while. it looks amazing, but I still have not finished Fall out 3. Is it like that?
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Becky Reply:
February 1st, 2010 at 8:13 pm
FWIW, my hubby (the gamer) says Fall Out 3 is more quest driven, and Borderlands is more 1st person shooterish (he got Borderlands for Christmas). They are a similar type of game, but different.
Personally, Borderlands is one of the few video games that I don’t mind “watching” (aka having on the TV while I’m reading or surfing the web). The music is good and I like the little robot guy.
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TheWicked Reply:
February 2nd, 2010 at 11:28 am
Like Becky said they are different in their focus.
You can always rent Borderlands for the PS3 or 360 to check it out. Sadly there is no demo for the PC.
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By kirk on Feb 1, 2010
STO, I am enjoying it curently, on the TV front…. I dont know, im not sold on the 52 inch tv, it seems only good if you watch alot of TV, although, playing x-box games on one is AWESOME…..
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Phil Reply:
February 1st, 2010 at 5:42 pm
I think I will wait on Star Trek until there is a free trial. Ok, I don’t really need a giant TV, but when you walk though an electronic store and see those gigantic TV’s showing you the most beautiful pictures imaginable doesn’t it just make you want one.
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kirk Reply:
February 1st, 2010 at 6:04 pm
sometimes, but I dont watch enough tv to justify the purchase, far more entertaining would be an RC airplane or heli, or…. hmm, I dont know…
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By Flaime on Feb 1, 2010
Good luck and go STO, because DA:O isn’t very repeatable, IMO. There’s only a couple really clean ways to get through it and the messy ways aren’t fun.
But why not go OCS?
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Tristan Reply:
February 2nd, 2010 at 2:42 am
It’s probably just me but when you write OCS, it reminds me of work, The Microsoft Office Communicator Service…
Lame
What were you talking about?
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By Fyurae on Feb 1, 2010
Do it.
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By Delicia on Feb 1, 2010
I got the PC version, mainly because the XBox 360 is upstairs, and my computer chair is way more comfortable than the rec room chair. Plus, that way I can switch back and forth between WoW and DA:O, esp if I’m on stand by for a raid.
I agree that it may not have a lot of repeatability, you could make different characters but you’ll still end up running through mostly the same scenarios. But, still worth it.
I agree about STO – I want to try a free trial. WAR ended up being too much like WoW but not as good and more pvp-oriented (*yawn*).
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By DJ on Feb 2, 2010
I am single (and maybe what follows helps to explain it) and have 5 televisions. One in my bedroon, one in my son’s room for his visits. One in the guest room, one in the basement by the computer and a 52″ plasma in the living room. As I talk about it, it just all seems so logical. Phil you DESERVE your big TV!
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By T-Sonn on Feb 2, 2010
DA:O – I sent my copy to a guildy to check out, but I didn’t finish it, myself. Although it was pretty awesomely cool, I had a couple of problems with it.
– the combat is squad-based. Which means in order to succeed at larger battles, you need to be able to stop the action, queue up abilities for the members of your party, and set up elaborate “tactics” for each of them to be useful on their own
– this style of combat totally took me out of the heat of the battle, and out of the rp-ish world
– as with most of single-player RPGs–not to mention in REAL LIFE–the evil playstyle is more fun and satisfying while the rewards for following the ‘good’ path are far superior. So your choices work out to be “boring but I got nice shit” or “exciting but I’m living hand-to-mouth, here”
In conclusion… did you try Aion?
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By lak on Feb 2, 2010
I have DA:O for the PC and am enjoying it a lot. There’s not a *ton* of replay value, but I’ve already finished it once and am on my second play through. Might do once more, but definitely done after that.
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Definitely get a game to reward yourself for studying hard.
Definitely get yourself something to reward yourself if you pass. If it’s a TV you want, and you can justify it in some way – go for it. Since when do rewards/presents have to be 100% practical anyway?
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By Evil Sheep on Feb 2, 2010
There is no such thing as the perfect size tv. As long as it will fit through the door, all is good.
Go for DA:O and a massive tv, it will be immersive.
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By DD on Feb 2, 2010
Good luck on the test!
I like my idea so much that I’m actually de-lurking for the first time. Sorry TJ…I was too late to de-lurk on the official de-lurking day.
I vote for a game to tide you over until the results. I’ve done my fair share of job required, nationally administered tests that require months of study. You deserve something for that time and effort. And I agree that a celebratory gift post-results is justified, but what about this plan?
1. Purchase Wii/Wii Fit to be used on your current LCD. Addictive and fun for both of you.
2. Use the savings (52″ cost – Wii Cost) to purchase some awesome upgrades to your honeymoon. Again, benefits both of you because she IS being all supportive of your studying and stuff.
The payoffs, you ask? Couples always want to look their best on the big day, so why not try gamer’s aerobics. There’s a lot of toning that could happen between June and October. If you are honeymooning someplace beachy, the hot bods will be a bonus. And think about it…you are getting ready to move into a house all to yourselves. You could Wii nekkid!
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TJ Reply:
February 2nd, 2010 at 7:42 pm
Oh man, I am so happy you delurked, to the point that I feel like I shouldn’t even comment, but we already have a Wii Fit and we’re not taking a honeymoon so Phil is going to end up using your brilliant ideas to justify the purchase of the television noooooooooo!
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DD Reply:
February 2nd, 2010 at 7:49 pm
Oh CRAP! I should have realized you probably already had the Wii. And now I’ve used up my one brilliant idea. *hangs head in shame* I’ll keep thinking, but the sound of the hubster in a fail VoA pug next to me is very distracting.
All I can say is my official TV vote is no. Sorry Phil, that’s just too many TVs for a household of 2.
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By Llinkla on Feb 2, 2010
My husband and I are both playing dragons age and like it a lot! His only complaint so far is it ended to quickly. I asked him what he expected playing it 10 hours at a time, he seems grumpy now …
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By Bernie on Feb 3, 2010
You can never have too many televisions. One in every room and closet, you might want to hide during American Idol.
Keep studying and pass that test. I am sure TJ will have a proper reward waiting for you on the day test results are posted.
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By Alex on Feb 3, 2010
As the proud granddaugher of the original TV sales person in my city I must say that you can NEVER have too many TVs!
I don’t know what the first option wasb ut you should reward yourself with the Star Trek thing, Phil. Plus the TV later (of course).
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By Phaedra on Feb 3, 2010
I cannot weigh in on DA:O vs. STO, aside from saying that you play WoW – do you have room in your life for another MMO? For me, it’s WoW and Hello Kitty Online gets about 1 day a week and only because it’s free.
As for your BIG reward, I’d second the PS3 idea. Besides being a gaming console, it’s a Blueray player and you can also stream NetFlix directly to it.
Or a new/upgraded computer. Because it’s always time to upgrade.
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By Tristan on Feb 3, 2010
I got DA:O last night from well lets just say a cheaper way… And I have to say its a pretty cool game. Play for like 4 hours and there is some pretty crazy stuff in it and some stuff your just like WTF why would they do that hahahah
I’m playing a Elf Mage :)
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By Amanda on Mar 7, 2010
I offer a third option! I know, I know, I’m late to the party. Anyways, buy a projector, you can get a nice HD one for around $700 from NEWEGG. We bought one for ourselves at XMAS. We love it. Cheaper than those big screen HD TV’s and it’s BIGGER than those “big” screen TV’s. I can hook my gaming systems into it too! I’m in love.
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