xp_logs | Log: Tandy and Namor: Afternoon

Tandy teaches Namor how to play video games.

"So you got the basics right?" Tan handed the controls back to Namor after by passing the main menu and into the story. "This isn't your typical hit and run, you are locked into battle until you win or you die."

"Correct me if I'm wrong," even though Namor's tone indicated that him being wrong would be a far-fetched possibility, "The strategy is to use the correct sequence of attacks to defeat the boss? No dodging or mechanical skill?" He frowned contemplatively at the screen while deftly using the controller to scroll through options. "Seems like not much of a challenge."

"Yes and no. The boss can hit you back and it could take a good chunk of your life. Especially if you don't have items that could help you defeat said bosses. And you say it isn't a challenge now just wait until you die a couple of times." Tan chuckled a bit. "But you want to make sure you are always putting your skill points into your character so you can get stronger and look for better loot as well."

Namor frowned. "This style of game is about the story, correct? It seems like this system discourages storytelling elements that are not long-winded monologues."

Tan bit her lower lip to hide her amusement but was failing, "This game focuses on story and not so much on everything else. Monologues are very important - even if the cut-scenes are five minutes long."

"Shouldn't the thief character be able to sneak up and stab the boss during those scenes? Seems much more efficient."

"He wouldn't be a good boss if a thief could just sneak up behind him. Are the scenes annoying you, m'lord?" Her voice gave way that she was teasing him.

Her teasing only gained her a flat stare. "Well. Obviously. I only question the villain's tactics and the writing, but that," he added pointedly, "Is likely a problem with the genre."

"But that is half the fun. It is like a movie but you are the main character." She returned his stare with a grin. "And you haven't gotten to the real meat of the game yet."

There was a gentle clicking of the controller as Namor selected various combat choices. "I do not believe there is a video game where you are not the main character. What makes this game special?"

"You can customize all the characters in your party. And you can control them as well, so it gives you more of an edge in battle. Gives you strategies you can work with. It is all about your party."

"Well. I do like strategy."

"Maybe I should introduce you into other strategy based games that have less talking and more thinking." Tan tilted her head to the side as she looked at the screen. "So what are your thoughts?"

"More thinking would be preferable." Namor attacked, a splash of color flashing against the screen. "I can see the draw of these types of stories, but I feel they need better editing. There may be something missing in translation."

"Well these games were marketed towards the Japanese market. I can see why some Westerns may not find the appeal. Some games are not for everyone. If you are tired of one we can play something else."

The young man was suddenly very clingy with the controller. "We just got to the flying castle. I very much approve of this plot twist."

Tan stared at Namor for a moment before a grin crossed her lips, "Well then, please continue." She leaned back in the couch cushion. "I am pleased you are enjoying yourself."

"Of course I am," Namor stated haughtily, "I have never been given any reason to doubt your exquisite taste."

"Good. I wouldn't want to disappoint. I mean it is my video game reputation on the line."

He laughed good-naturedly at this. "I would never dream to impinge upon the credulity of your reputation. I was raised better than that."

"You are too kind." Tandy smirked. "Give my thanks to the one that raised you."

"Ah, so you intend to make my mother, father, and uncle fight over who is graced with your thanks? That is deeply cruel, Miss Bowen. Are you positive you're never been in politics?"

Tandy laughed, "Not me personally. But I had relatives who were. Maybe it runs in my blood. But maybe you can thank all three? Less bloodshed the better."

"You say this as we play a game where the main character has a sword taller than he is," Namor noted dryly, "I see you have different standards when it comes to fiction."

"Blood is easier to clean up in games than it is in real life. Also people tend to ask less questions." She said in a serious tone.

"Miss Bowen, that is why mercenaries exist." His attention was back on the screen. "While it is respectable to get your hands dirty, one must have standards."

"It still gets messy, no matter who does it your grace." Tandy said leaning her head back on the couch. "Nothing wrong getting your hands dirty, just blood is messy."

"Anything can polished away with sufficient scrubbing." It was at this point a boss attack wiped the party. Namor frowned. "Well, perhaps not that. That is messy."

Tandy winced as each of his party members fell over. "Maybe next time have your healer in your party?"

"Pfft. Persistence is its own reward. Again."

Tandy took the controller and loaded up his last save. "Here you are chief." As she handed the controller back. "And persistence is good to have. So is a healer."