https://www.mikenorton.dev/ Recent content on mikenorton Hugo -- gohugo.io en Fri, 27 Jan 2023 11:38:59 -0800 https://www.mikenorton.dev/posts/start-here/ Fri, 27 Jan 2023 11:38:59 -0800 https://www.mikenorton.dev/posts/start-here/ Over the many years I have blogged on a few sites. I figured it was time to take all the posts and export them from blogger.com so I an place them somewhere. Where better to host all my old blog posts than my personal website? Mind you, things have changed in my life since the very first post, but those posts are a part of who I am or was and are still relevant, even if I do not agree with or hold to some of the things put forth any longer. https://www.mikenorton.dev/about/ Fri, 27 Jan 2023 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.mikenorton.dev/about/ As a seasoned professional in the field of Quality Assurance and web development, I am dedicated to delivering exceptional services to small businesses and non-profit organizations. My primary focus is on thorough testing and quality assurance, to ensure that the final product is free from bugs and functions seamlessly. Additionally, I have expertise in web development and understand the importance of usability in creating a successful website. By utilizing custom templates and designs, I am able to tailor the website to effectively target and convert the unique audience of each client. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2013/05/dont-kill-foundry-todays-patch-good-news.html Thu, 09 May 2013 07:08:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2013/05/dont-kill-foundry-todays-patch-good-news.html Lots of discussion has been floating around Reddit, official forums and even some talk on G+ concerning the last patch that nerfed XP for Foundry quests. The reason Cryptic put in the nerf was to answer a small group of authors who chose to exploit the system and create maps that gave an advantage to the player while the mobs could not act as intended. In other words: They created a lazy mans leveling map. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/11/jedi-guardian-tanking-build-wip.html Sun, 20 Nov 2011 07:43:00 -0800 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/11/jedi-guardian-tanking-build-wip.html Now that the NDA has been lifted we are free to discuss the game. This means its now time for the information and theorycrafting to begin. Before I dive in I want to put a disclaimer up front. While I love to dig into every aspect of the characters I play I am NOT a hard core theorycrafter. The information I will provide in my articles will revolve around experience and in game knowledge. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/11/tor-hangout-85-nda-lift-show.html Sun, 20 Nov 2011 07:32:00 -0800 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/11/tor-hangout-85-nda-lift-show.html TOR Hangout is a weekly round table discussion held on Google+ We use the G+ Hangout feature to get together and talk about Star Wars The Old Republic. TOR Hangout is also streamed live each week on Twitch.tv for those who cant fit into the hangout. No NDA replaced with NO STORY SPOILER Warning!!! https://www.swtor.com/community/showthread.php?p=10939389#edit10939389 News Legacy System https://www.swtor.com/community/showthread.php?p=10940945#edit10940945 Agenda and Questions Character creation, how detailed is it? Are there any race/class combo that intrigued testers more than others? https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/11/tor-hangout-8-beta-weekend-withdrawls.html Tue, 15 Nov 2011 12:14:00 -0800 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/11/tor-hangout-8-beta-weekend-withdrawls.html News Beta test signup pre 11/11? Your in!!! For a future beta test weekend (in the next few weeks). FAQ states ”we’re expecting this future weekend to be the last Beta Testing Weekend.” Stress test Beta keys hitting gaming sites David Bass says Just a reminder that if you were a registered member of our website on or before November 11th, 2011, you will be invited to the future weekend test. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/11/tor-hangout-7-nerds-eating-cyborgs.html Tue, 08 Nov 2011 12:22:00 -0800 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/11/tor-hangout-7-nerds-eating-cyborgs.html TOR Hangout is a weekly round table discussion held on Google+ We use the G+ Hangout feature to get together and talk about Star Wars The Old Republic. TOR Hangout is also streamed live each week on Twitch.tv for those who cant fit into the hangout. THIS WEEKS SHOW NOTES: NEWS Fansite Summit #2 DRAMA!!! 12 sites picked and some hurt! Google+ Pages https://plus.google.com/u/0/pages/create?hl=en Cyborgs Confirmed as a race https://plus. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/11/podcast-tor-hangout-6-epic-beards.html Tue, 01 Nov 2011 20:04:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/11/podcast-tor-hangout-6-epic-beards.html TOR Hangout is a weekly round table discussion held on Google+ We use the G+ Hangout feature to get together and talk about Star Wars The Old Republic. TOR Hangout is also streamed live each week on Twitch.tv for those who cant fit into the hangout. THIS WEEKS SHOW NOTES: News Friday Update: Warzones! https://www.swtor.com/news/news-article/20111028 Game Systems Page https://www.swtor.com/info/systems/warzones 3 warzones at launch. Voidstar - assault-style, Think Strand of the Ancients in Wow or Dustbowl in TFC/TF2 Hutball - Team based football. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/11/big-tuesday-coffee-post.html Tue, 01 Nov 2011 06:38:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/11/big-tuesday-coffee-post.html How is that +Russell Schrader :) Sorry, I actually got about 45 minutes extra sleep! YEA!! The coffee is gooooood this morning. I do so love that first cup in the morning, and second, and third and more. Last night we had a fantastic hangout! We are still working out the kinks since we don’t have the niffty tools to go “On Air” on a Google Hangout yet. We are not the 1% :) Must be a ubber tech celeb or make music that only 12 year olds listen to? https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/fyi-if-chrome-has-shockwave-crash-in.html Mon, 31 Oct 2011 20:12:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/fyi-if-chrome-has-shockwave-crash-in.html FYI, if chrome has a shockwave crash in the middle of streaming/broadcasting a hangout, it will MESS up your sync. :( At least the audio is still good. Google+: View post on Google+ https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/oh-i-like-both-this-idea-and-fact-i-am.html Mon, 31 Oct 2011 15:54:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/oh-i-like-both-this-idea-and-fact-i-am.html Oh I like! Both this idea and the fact I am sharing this from INSIDE the new Reader!!! Me Likes!1 Embedded Link HUDTube Transports Your Web Videos Out of Your Browser so You Can Watch Them Like Downloaded Movies HUDTube is not your standard web video downloader as it focuses on eliminating the wait time and just making it more pleasant to watch the videos you want on your desktop or laptop. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/so-i-have-win-8-on-my-laptop.html Mon, 31 Oct 2011 09:19:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/so-i-have-win-8-on-my-laptop.html Just partitioned my i5 system and going to install it on the desktop. Can’t wait to test out a certain beta on it once next phase starts up.Installing the ISO onto a USB stick. First time for doing a usb install of a windows os for me. Installed ubuntu usb before with 0 issues. Google+: View post on Google+ https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/looking-for-royalty-free-epic-sounding.html Mon, 31 Oct 2011 07:36:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/looking-for-royalty-free-epic-sounding.html Looking for royalty free EPIC sounding music/soundtracks for a couple video projects. Anyone know a good site, or artist that has great work? Google+: View post on Google+ https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/it-monday-monday-coffee-is-on-news-is.html Mon, 31 Oct 2011 05:54:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/it-monday-monday-coffee-is-on-news-is.html It’s time to face a new day, a new week, almost a new month! Can you believe it? Going to get ready for the TOR Hangout, keep looking for for work (did I mention I need a job? I know, I am not alone.) keep tweeking the streaming setup, work on some more animations, just keep busy. It will be a good day! It has to be! Glad you are all here too :) https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/oh-yea-its-on-now.html Sun, 30 Oct 2011 18:01:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/oh-yea-its-on-now.html Oh Yea!!! Its on NOW!!!! Embedded Link The Next Iron Chef : Food Network Ten of the country’s best chefs test their speed, artistry and creativity as they compete to join the most elite culinary society: the Iron Chefs. Google+: View post on Google+ https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/just-preordered-revan.html Sun, 30 Oct 2011 16:09:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/just-preordered-revan.html Comes out on the 15th of Nov!! Drew Karpyshyn - Star Wars: The Old Republic: Revan - https://itun.es/iBC9TX #iTunes Embedded Link iTunes - Books - Star Wars: The Old Republic: Revan by Drew Karpyshyn Get a free sample or buy Star Wars: The Old Republic: Revan by Drew Karpyshyn on the iTunes Store. You can read this book with iBooks on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch. Google+: View post on Google+ https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/tor-hangout-oct-31-530-pm-pdt.html Sun, 30 Oct 2011 14:58:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/tor-hangout-oct-31-530-pm-pdt.html Just a reminder about this weeks hangout. We will be streaming on https://twitch.tv/torhangout and using the twitch.tv chat system for those who cant make it into the circle. This weeks hangout has +Andy Scott +JJ McD. +Eric Lortie +Louis Hill +Johnny Phoeenix +Melissa Martinez and +Scott Hill in it. Good news is I managed to get the stream to work off of one computer, so we have room for 2 more. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/time-for.html Fri, 28 Oct 2011 23:32:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/time-for.html zzzZZzzZzzzzzz Google+: View post on Google+ https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/hmm-i-seem-to-have-lost-some-messages.html Fri, 28 Oct 2011 18:34:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/hmm-i-seem-to-have-lost-some-messages.html Hmm, I seem to have lost some messages in G+ Google+: View post on Google+ https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/just-found-new-site-thanks-to-engineer.html Fri, 28 Oct 2011 13:29:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/just-found-new-site-thanks-to-engineer.html Just found a new site thanks to an engineer at Enjin.com This is very helpful to determin how your DNS is propagated across the world once you make changes. https://www.whatsmydns.net/#A/guildredeemed.com Embedded Link What’s My DNS? Global DNS Propagation Checker What’s my DNS? Instantly check your hostnames current IP Address and other DNS information against a selection of random name servers around the world. Google+: View post on Google+ https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/looking-forward-to-show.html Fri, 28 Oct 2011 06:10:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/looking-forward-to-show.html Looking forward to the show. Reshared post from +TOROcast Podcast This weeks show we’ll be talking about tanking and off tanking in the Old Republic. Be sure to get your questions in by either calling the hotline 347.470.T-O-R-O or submitting it to the mailbag forum. Google+: View post on Google+ https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/good-coffee-friday-morning.html Fri, 28 Oct 2011 05:58:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/good-coffee-friday-morning.html First, I am a SLACKER! I just realized I neglected to post a coffee post yesterday. HOW CAN THAT BE? Did a tear in the time space continuum open up? Did my dog eat my coffee posts? (looks at Faithy sleeping on the floor, nope), did the anticipation of Friday on Thursday’s horizon blind me? As Darth Vader never said. NoooooOOooOOooooooOoOooooooooo I just spaced and blew it. Here is a cookie, or at least a Death Star shaped cookie jar. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/my-eyes.html Thu, 27 Oct 2011 23:41:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/my-eyes.html they . . they are closing. . . one more to 70 for Redeemed . . but I can’t hold out. Night my friends.ZZzzZzZz Google+: View post on Google+ https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/nice-find.html Thu, 27 Oct 2011 23:32:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/nice-find.html Thanks +Kerry Amburgy-Dickson Reshared post from +Kerry Amburgy-Dickson Embedded Link Spook Kids with this Awesome Star Wars MP3 file this Halloween Starwars.com has released a fun Star Wars-themed MP3 file (Right Click, Save As) to spook kids trick or treating at your door this Halloween. Vampires, Google+: View post on Google+ https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/looking-at-guildlaunch-site-makes-me.html Thu, 27 Oct 2011 22:41:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/looking-at-guildlaunch-site-makes-me.html Looking at a guildlaunch site makes me want to stab my eyes out :( I did not know geocities was still alive. #iknowimbeainmeanbutcomeon!wehavetohavestylestandards Google+: View post on Google+ https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/reminder-to-anyone-following-me.html Thu, 27 Oct 2011 20:51:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/reminder-to-anyone-following-me.html Don’t miss out on all the fun we are having in the SWTOR circle. If you would like to be placed in the circle with the rest of us Start Wars the Old Republic crazies speak up. :-) Google+: View post on Google+ https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/hmm-could-this-mean-crendor-will-come.html Thu, 27 Oct 2011 20:03:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/hmm-could-this-mean-crendor-will-come.html Hmm, could this mean Crendor will come join us in SWTOR? :D Google+: View post on Google+ https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/hmm-look-to-left.html Thu, 27 Oct 2011 16:59:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/hmm-look-to-left.html See that new What’s hot link? Lets get SWTOR trending on G+!!! :)#SWTOR Google+: View post on Google+ https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/think-i-found-good-process-for.html Thu, 27 Oct 2011 16:48:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/think-i-found-good-process-for.html My poor old Quad core Q6600 is on its knees mind you, but it works. Using Flash Media Encoder and VHSrcCap to get a very nice stream. Only issue now is to get the audio working so my mic goes with the stream. I have 2 sound cards but my brain hurts right now :PHope I can get this so we can free up another slot for he hangout. Otherwise I have to take it up on the other computer just for streaming. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/this-could-be-awesome.html Thu, 27 Oct 2011 10:53:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/this-could-be-awesome.html This could be AWESOME! Reshared post from +Fernando Fonseca How to test Google+ Ripples before they roll out to everyone Google just launched Google+ Ripples, a way to visualize the impact of any public post. Here is how you can test it with your own posts before it rolls out to everyone. 1. Pick any of your public posts 2. Copy the last string in the URL that comes after posts/ https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/and-with-that-its-time-for-bed.html Thu, 27 Oct 2011 00:03:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/and-with-that-its-time-for-bed.html Goodnight all. See you in the morning. ::Google+ hugs:: Google+: View post on Google+ https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/new-intro-i-came-up-with-while-playing.html Wed, 26 Oct 2011 23:55:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/new-intro-i-came-up-with-while-playing.html When all else fails get creative :) Google+: View post on Google+ https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/earthquake.html Wed, 26 Oct 2011 23:38:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/earthquake.html Earthquake! Google+: View post on Google+ https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/well-just-got-word-that-job-doing-tech.html Wed, 26 Oct 2011 18:00:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/well-just-got-word-that-job-doing-tech.html Well, just got word that the job doing tech support for my wifes school has fallen through, for a second time. Remind me to stop getting my hopes up. Google+: View post on Google+ https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/fall-coffee-wednesday-post.html Wed, 26 Oct 2011 06:40:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/fall-coffee-wednesday-post.html Good morning all my friends. I sit here wishing that Northern California got colors like this in fall. While thinking about the great colors the news is showing a story about the Boreal Ski Resort up in the mountains above us using their snow machines to make snow. What a time of year. :) Here we are half way through the week and it could not be better. To spare you the details lets just say its been a long week and even longer month. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/dear-google.html Tue, 25 Oct 2011 17:58:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/dear-google.html I just want to say again how awesome and how much I would love having the “On Air” function for hangouts for our awesome community building hangout all about BioWare’s awesome upcoming game, Star Wars The Old Republic. I’ll bring you coffee for a month! I’ll walk your dog! I’ll use puppy dog eyes! Thank you Mike Google+: View post on Google+ https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/ok-this-is-cool-and-new-stable-version.html Tue, 25 Oct 2011 10:50:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/ok-this-is-cool-and-new-stable-version.html ROCK on Google! Embedded Link Official Google Blog: Making Chrome even more app-ealing Making Chrome even more app-ealing. 10/25/2011 09:09:00 AM. From sharing photos, to collaborating on documents, to enjoying online games, web apps make the web fun, useful and entertaining. Since the … Google+: View post on Google+ https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/brrrr-its-cold-in-my-office-time-to-put.html Tue, 25 Oct 2011 08:09:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/brrrr-its-cold-in-my-office-time-to-put.html brrrr Its cold in my office! Time to put on the socks and long pants I think. Google+: View post on Google+ https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/tor-hangout-5-with-lightsabers.html Tue, 25 Oct 2011 06:54:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/tor-hangout-5-with-lightsabers.html TOR Hangout is a weekly round table discussion held on Google+ We use the G+ Hangout feature to get together and talk about Star Wars The Old Republic. TOR Hangout is also streamed live each week on Twitch.tv for those who cant fit into the hangout. THIS WEEKS SHOW NOTES SWTOR Press Embargo Lift https://plus.google.com/u/0/s/%23swtornews (Google+ Search on #swtornews) Blizzcon and what Pandas mean to TOR. World of Warcraft: Mists of Pandaria Preview Trailer https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/coffee.html Tue, 25 Oct 2011 06:06:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/coffee.html Yes, I has it! Up at 4:44 AM and ready to go. Going to be a good Tuesday. Just watch! :) And morning all. Google+: View post on Google+ https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/podcast-tor-hangout-with-lightsabers.html Mon, 24 Oct 2011 23:01:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/podcast-tor-hangout-with-lightsabers.html TOR Hangout is a weekly round table discussion held on Google+ We use the G+ Hangout feature to get together and talk about Star Wars The Old Republic. TOR Hangout is also streamed live each week on Twitch.tv for those who cant fit into the hangout. THIS WEEKS SHOW NOTES: SWTOR Press Embargo Lift https://plus.google.com/u/0/s/%23swtornews (Google+ Search on #swtornews) Blizzcon and what Pandas mean to TOR. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nyeZ8khSEC0 2.2 Million Views https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/thank-goodness-i-can-now-change-my.html Mon, 24 Oct 2011 22:00:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/thank-goodness-i-can-now-change-my.html Thank goodness! I can now change my phones voice! Embedded Link Sexify Your Navigation and Speech-Enabled Apps with Ivona Text-to-Speech HQ This whole having a conversation with your phone fad seems to have been a hot topic ever since Siri jumped onto the scene. Yes, I know – we’ve been able Google+: View post on Google+ https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/win.html Mon, 24 Oct 2011 19:35:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/win.html Corey rocks! Craig rocks! Star Wars. . well you know it rocks!! Reshared post from +Corey Vidal - New lightsaber fight! Let me know what you guys think. Google+: View post on Google+ https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/this-is-awesome-i-dedicate-this-share.html Mon, 24 Oct 2011 19:01:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/this-is-awesome-i-dedicate-this-share.html #swtor Reshared post from +Derek Ross #occupydeathstar Google+: View post on Google+ https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/uninstalling-swtor-makes-me-sad.html Mon, 24 Oct 2011 11:23:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/uninstalling-swtor-makes-me-sad.html Come on 20th!!! #swtor #t Google+: View post on Google+ https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/ok-time-for-some-food.html Mon, 24 Oct 2011 10:33:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/ok-time-for-some-food.html Ok, time for some FOOD! Google+: View post on Google+ https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/monday-coffee.html Mon, 24 Oct 2011 05:35:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/monday-coffee.html Yea, I can identify with this picture. Its Monday again. Up earlier than I would like but such is what happens during my high allergies season. Today brings graphics and Enjin.com template working. Getting ready for tonight’s TOR Hangout, and whatever my creative mind finds to do. What are all my friends up to this week and how to you plan to make it a great week? #dailycoffee Google+: View post on Google+ https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/wordpress-drupal-or-joomla-this-is.html Sat, 22 Oct 2011 08:15:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/wordpress-drupal-or-joomla-this-is.html Then phpbb, smf, ??? Google+: View post on Google+ https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/go-go-dpc.html Fri, 21 Oct 2011 14:48:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/go-go-dpc.html Go go DPC! Google+: View post on Google+ https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/for-some-reason-my-gmail-ui-is-messing.html Fri, 21 Oct 2011 14:41:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/for-some-reason-my-gmail-ui-is-messing.html For some reason my gmail ui is messing up and hiding things on the top line. Google+: View post on Google+ https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/podcast-tor-hangout-4.html Mon, 17 Oct 2011 12:28:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/podcast-tor-hangout-4.html Join us each Monday night at 5:30 PST on Google+ for a TOR Hangout. Had a great time this week with some new faces. Video to be added as soon as Twitch.tv fixes its upload to youtube issue. https://plus.google.com/u/0/109393486415188433944/posts/2VamAjMwY4Z?hl=en Link to heading Comments: Link to heading We missed Patrik last night and Louis was very qui… Link to heading talesfromtor - Oct 1, 2011We missed Patrik last night and Louis was very quiet :( https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/stephen-reid-kicks-preorder-hoax-in.html Fri, 07 Oct 2011 04:17:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/stephen-reid-kicks-preorder-hoax-in.html I want to start this article out with a quote from Stephen Reid that basicly sums up a huge problem we have in the MMO community. Do not present opinions as ‘facts’ here, please - unless you have evidence to back it up. Stephen posted this at the end of a very well written response to a forum members proclamation that in order to get into the beta for Star Wars The Old Republic you should not preorder the game. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/book-excerpt-of-revan-audio-book.html Tue, 04 Oct 2011 09:47:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/book-excerpt-of-revan-audio-book.html Are you looking forward to the upcoming book “Star Wars: The Old Republic: Revan” by Drew Karpyshyn, as much as I am? Random House Audio has just released a portion of the upcoming book for our listening pleasure. Marc Thompson, who also narrated “Deceived” does a fantastic job reading. His history with the series as well as his voice acting helps bring the story off the page and into your imagination. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/beta-weekend-2-invites.html Tue, 04 Oct 2011 04:54:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/beta-weekend-2-invites.html Invites for Beta Weekend #2 have gone out. If you are like many of us you will be watching your email inbox very closly and hitting F5 until the letters are rubbed off the key. All invites for Beta Testing Weekend #2 have now been sent. Please check your email (including spam folders) and login to swtor.com/tester/ to see if you have been accepted for this weekend’s testing. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/podcast-tor-hangout-2.html Tue, 04 Oct 2011 04:34:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/podcast-tor-hangout-2.html Join us each Monday night at 5:30 PST on Google+ for a TOR Hangout. This week we talked about the new of RP-PvP servers and more. https://plus.google.com/109393486415188433944/posts/iu6Cw79cGUW?hl=en [podcast]https://torholonet.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/TORHangout10032011.mp3[/podcast] https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/rp-pvp-servers-confirmed.html Mon, 03 Oct 2011 13:21:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/10/rp-pvp-servers-confirmed.html Our favorite community manager, Stephen Reid, stopped by the official forums to announce: Hello all. As I said before, it wasn’t such a trivial decision, which is why it took a while to make. However, we have good news: RP-PvP servers are going to be a part of Star Wars: The Old Republic. Please note, the ‘RP’ part of the RP-PvP designation will be a suggested style of play, not a mandatory one. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/09/podcast-tor-hangout-1.html Mon, 26 Sep 2011 04:39:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/09/podcast-tor-hangout-1.html We just had our first TOR Hangout on Google+ and it was AWESOME! Join us each Monday at 5:30 PDT for more fun on Google+ about our favorite game, Star Wars The Old Republic. https://plus.google.com/109393486415188433944/posts/gAhZh8hs7NQ https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/09/swtor-beta-tank-and-heal-testing.html Sat, 03 Sep 2011 18:27:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/09/swtor-beta-tank-and-heal-testing.html I have been putting this off for a couple weeks but cant help myself. Yes, I am in the Star Wars The Old Republic Beta, and yes I am LOVING it. The game will be a major hit if not for the story and lore alone. I have to be very careful to not post anything that would break the NDA, one reason I have not posted anything about it. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/05/chloro-build-copied-from-friend.html Sun, 22 May 2011 15:12:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/05/chloro-build-copied-from-friend.html Ugly’s Builds These are the builds I currently use in game for various purposes as of April 2011. Rift is continuously evolving, so these may be outdated in a month or two. These builds are all intended for level 50. Again, these are what I myself use and enjoy, your mileage may vary. Build #1 Hybrid 34 Chloromancer, 32 Warlock, 0 Archon for Main Healing This is my dungeon and raid healing build. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/03/rift-cleric-dps-build-inqjustsent.html Thu, 31 Mar 2011 14:23:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/03/rift-cleric-dps-build-inqjustsent.html Here is my DPS build I have been using on my Cleric https://rift.zam.com/en/stc.html?t=10rdj.VuMo.ExkVgt0qz.V0g Has great single target DPS High AOE damage Great group utility https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/03/rift-iron-tombs-expert-three-kings.html Thu, 31 Mar 2011 10:34:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/03/rift-iron-tombs-expert-three-kings.html https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/02/twitter-and-rift-tutorial.html Tue, 15 Feb 2011 07:22:00 -0800 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/02/twitter-and-rift-tutorial.html With open beta Trion has introduced the ability to Tweet from inside the Rift game. The reception of this feature will undoubtedly be met with mixed reviews. Trolling aside, I think it will add a new layer of social integration, provided we use it correctly. Lets take a look at what can be done with this feature. Tweet Your Achievements! Rift now has the ability to be set to automatically post a tweet whenever you get an achievement. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/01/formspringme.html Wed, 26 Jan 2011 06:44:00 -0800 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2011/01/formspringme.html Ask me about church media, web development, MMO gaming, audio engineering, or anything. https://formspring.me/manorton https://www.mikenorton.dev/2010/10/farming-for-charger-tips.html Sun, 17 Oct 2010 18:23:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2010/10/farming-for-charger-tips.html Looking for something to keep you busy while you wait for the flaming dragon to give us more content? Well why not head up to Stratholm dead side and farm for Baron Rivendare’s Deathcharger mount? This mount is the only skeletal mount available for alliance players, and a very snazzy looking one for both factions to own. To get the mount you need to run the dead side of Strath, take out the 3 Ziggerat bosses, the NPC’s inside of each, kill the Aboms outside the Baron’s hideout, kill one really big Abom, some skellies and then the Baron himself to see if you have hit the 1% die roll. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2010/10/wow-cataclysm-cinematic.html Sun, 17 Oct 2010 17:45:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2010/10/wow-cataclysm-cinematic.html Just WOW! https://www.mikenorton.dev/2010/08/lotro-mod-spotlight-no-2-buff-bars.html Thu, 26 Aug 2010 18:43:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2010/08/lotro-mod-spotlight-no-2-buff-bars.html Here is the next installment in the LotRO Mod Spotlight. Buff Bars by Pengoros Comments: Link to heading Wow, fantastic video. This is totally your calling… Link to heading Moxie - Aug 4, 2010Wow, fantastic video. This is totally your calling. Although I like using mods, they aren’t always the most intuitive things to learn. Every mod author should do a video similar to this, it would make things so much easier! https://www.mikenorton.dev/2010/08/lotro-mod-spotlight-no1-lotro-hud.html Fri, 20 Aug 2010 16:04:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2010/08/lotro-mod-spotlight-no1-lotro-hud.html Turbine has opened up LUA scripting for its popular game Lord of the Rings Online which is set to go F2P on the 10th of September. The community has already steeped up and started creating some great mods for the game. I will be spotlighting several mods over the next few weeks and we begin with; LotRO Hud - https://forums.lotro.com/showthread.php?t=341291 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2010/08/lotro-mod-spotlight-no1-lotro-hud.html Fri, 20 Aug 2010 08:05:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2010/08/lotro-mod-spotlight-no1-lotro-hud.html Turbine has opened up LUA scripting for its popular game Lord of the Rings Online which is set to go F2P on the 10th of September. The community has already steeped up and started creating some great mods for the game. I will be spotlighting several mods over the next few weeks and we begin with; LotRO Hud - https://forums.lotro.com/showthread.php?t=341291 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2010/07/what-is-magic-word-blizzard.html Thu, 22 Jul 2010 20:04:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2010/07/what-is-magic-word-blizzard.html I have yet to discover the magic word to get a beta key. I was lucky to get a spare key from someone through Twitter for wrath which gave me access to the beta. I played, filled out bug reports and made posts about the new features along with videos. But that was a great fluke and someones kind heart at the time. So Blizzard, what word do we use? How do we get in to contribute to the community? https://www.mikenorton.dev/2010/07/welcome-back-brk-but-arg.html Wed, 21 Jul 2010 04:00:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2010/07/welcome-back-brk-but-arg.html This is late in coming but I want to welcome back Big Red Kitty to WoW. We missed you but are VERY glad things are working out. But I have a BONE to pick! I was all happy and fine with letting my hunter sit. . I leveled him all the way to 80 and he was my main toon for years until I retired him. Between falling in love with other classes (Prot Pally and Resto Druid) I retired him. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2010/07/24-hour-maintenance-why.html Tue, 20 Jul 2010 13:02:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2010/07/24-hour-maintenance-why.html Many noticed yesterday when they logged in that a slew of servers where getting their turn at a 24 hour down time for maintenance. A few in my guild, my daughter included, were very disappointed at the loss of being able to play. She just got to Northrend for the first time and is excited to get to 80. The question was asked as to why these servers where down for 24 hours and why this set? https://www.mikenorton.dev/2010/07/new-talent-system-yum-nom-nom-nom.html Fri, 16 Jul 2010 07:53:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2010/07/new-talent-system-yum-nom-nom-nom.html It’s always fun or fail when someone the age of the answer to Life, Universe and Everything tries to use netspeak/meemespeak in a title. But let’s talk about talent! Blizzard released a new version of the Cataclysm beta this week introducing the new 31 point talent system. The system streamlines our choices with some major features. The first thing you will notice is that, well, you only have 41 points total now to spend on your spec. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2010/07/realid-aftermath-or-is-it.html Tue, 13 Jul 2010 08:54:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2010/07/realid-aftermath-or-is-it.html I am still working on a way to put down how I think the RealID on Official forums debacle thing played out. Some will know that I was in favor of the “idea” of the system and even went so far to post comments on fellow bloggers blogs. My biggest concern, and remaining nagging feeling, is the signal to noise ratio of the debate, or rather, scream fest. I still firmly believe that the baby has in fact been tossed out with the bath water and that as a community of social beings we still have a lot to learn about the “bigger picture. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2010/07/f2p-gamebreaker.html Thu, 01 Jul 2010 00:56:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2010/07/f2p-gamebreaker.html Many know I have left World of Warcraft for the time being while I wait for the next expansion. In the meantime I have been playing Runes of Magic. I am enjoying it more than I thought I would until I the cash shop and real money exchange issue have presented itself as highly disappointing. On Sunday, June 27th, I purchased two Ultimate Game Cards at $20 each from GameStop. I redeemed them that afternoon jumping through many hoops and steps only to be taken to another companies web page. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2010/01/gearscore-anon-net-bullies-or-skill-gs_23.html Sat, 23 Jan 2010 00:47:00 -0800 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2010/01/gearscore-anon-net-bullies-or-skill-gs_23.html Back in the good old days of Burning Crusade I began to get discouraged when I hit 70 on Paravel, my resto druid. Why? Because I would look to join a group doing a heroic or raid and they would demand that you had a magically determined bonus healing stat. Often time this stat was pulled out of the “wow forums floating cloud of trolls”. No real science or crunching of numbers determined what made an effective player. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/06/video-aion-siege-tutorial.html Sat, 27 Jun 2009 03:28:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/06/video-aion-siege-tutorial.html Found this very cool video showing the cut scenes for the siege areas. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/06/pay-to-play-and-rtm-mmos-is-future-i.html Sun, 14 Jun 2009 08:05:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/06/pay-to-play-and-rtm-mmos-is-future-i.html Ok, first I know its been a LONG time since I have put anything on the pages of my blog here. Well get ready, lots of game stuff going through my head as well as updates into the pastor side of my life :) Ok, everyone knows that several new MMO’s are trying to knock the indisputable heavyweight champ, World of Warcraft, off its pedestal. Out of the handful, and I am a BIG fan of Aion right now, I think that only one really has a chance of doing it. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/06/dev-chat-hosted-by-warcry-63-800pm-edt.html Mon, 01 Jun 2009 11:25:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/06/dev-chat-hosted-by-warcry-63-800pm-edt.html From lotro.com: Chat with Jalessa, Graalx2, Fantus, and other members of the Turbine team this Wednesday at 8:00PM Eastern (-4 GMT) for a developer chat hosted by Warcry! Where: irc.chatspike.net 6667 in #warcouncil (you’ll need an IRC client to join the discussion) Can’t make the chat? Submit your question now and we might answer it during the chat! What do you want to ask the devs? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to submit your questions to Turbine before 12:00p EDT on Wednesday. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/05/more-good-news-for-book-8.html Tue, 26 May 2009 11:30:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/05/more-good-news-for-book-8.html Remember all that anti-exploit business? Dingorfin recently posted this in the lotro.com forums: In Book 8 we have fixed the problems with water causing unintended Anti-Exploit experiences. If you have experienced monsters going into unintended anti-exploit mode in Book 7 and are testing here on the Book 8 preview, we would appreciate it if you would take a moment to comment on any differences you see in the occurrence of anti-exploit mode. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/05/taking-break-indepth-look-at-gamer.html Mon, 25 May 2009 02:07:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/05/taking-break-indepth-look-at-gamer.html _en·nui (än**?**w??, än w?**?**)_ Link to heading noun Link to heading weariness and dissatisfaction resulting from inactivity or lack of interest; boredom Link to heading It’s been a while since I’ve written anything, and it’s been about equally as long since I’ve played LOTRO for any significant amount of time. It’s also been a busy month, with swine flu in our house, work obligations ramping up for the busy season, family visits, you name it. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/05/vile-maw-need-for-lower-rad-in-book-8.html Sun, 24 May 2009 02:34:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/05/vile-maw-need-for-lower-rad-in-book-8.html Vile Maw V 2.0 has not seen that much action since book 7 was released. Between a new fight strat and the need for a full set of radiance gear it just has been an empty shell. Some changes are coming for book 8 however. Not all details are in but Amlug did post about a reduction in radiance needed. Finally, we lowered the Vile Maw gloom to 140 (from 150) so if you don’t mind the 40 gloom penalties, you can now enter with 50 radiance. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/05/remedy-for-dot-blues.html Sat, 23 May 2009 04:42:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/05/remedy-for-dot-blues.html Anyone who has recently played Freepside in the Ettenmoors knows how annoying it is to get hit with stackable, non-curable D.O.T. (Damage-Over-Time). You get in the heat of battle, and all of a sudden four or five Uruk Blackarrows target you at once. Not even the best minstrel on the server can heal you fast enough, so your death is quick. You are left on the sidelines, praying for a rez while your raid group retreats. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/05/otg-loses-friend.html Tue, 19 May 2009 01:17:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/05/otg-loses-friend.html I awoke this morning to the news that one of my kinmates, a wonderful guy that I personally did not have enough time to get to know, passed away this morning at 1:30 AM Eastern Time. Iridar (Robert Ward) was a member of The Old Timers Guild, a large multi game guild with a large presence in LotRO. Iri became sick a few weeks ago which led him to an extended hospital stay where it was discovered to be cancer. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/05/stop-with-360-missinformation-allready.html Wed, 13 May 2009 15:05:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/05/stop-with-360-missinformation-allready.html Holy cow. One blog posts a link to screen shots with a survey and half the blog world related to MMO’s and LotRO lose all credibility in regards to reporting and checking facts. A point of clarity from Sapiance *Grabs the E-Brake* Not so fast! Our market research team asks a lot of questions via surveys. While it’s kind of fun to guess about what this surveys mean, the content of the survey doesn’t reflect our actual plans. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/05/book-8-brings-end-game.html Mon, 04 May 2009 14:18:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/05/book-8-brings-end-game.html A small but promising quote from Fantus will give those wanting more endgame content hope. Most of the content for Book 8 is ‘end-game’ content. This will be nice seeing that the Turtle is a rather sall stop gap. Read more of this short post here. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/05/anti-exploit-is-all-wet-how-to-fix.html Mon, 04 May 2009 14:10:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/05/anti-exploit-is-all-wet-how-to-fix.html Anti-Exploit, you know, the floating question marks above a mobs head when it cant find a path to you? Seems to be happening alot since more often since the release of book 7. Just the other night a fellowship made up of my wife and I where questing in Evendim and it was rather frustrating. Nearly every mob would bug out. So tonight LotRO Team member Dingorfin shed some rather intresting news on the subject. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/05/bonus-xp-through-june.html Fri, 01 May 2009 04:36:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/05/bonus-xp-through-june.html Patience just posted an update to the 2nd anniversary XP bonus. To continue our 2nd anniversary celebrations, all players will continue to receive +10% bonus XP on mob kills from now through the end of June! Have fun, and thanks for playing LOTRO! So, back to my new Guardian. Poor Paravell. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/04/nerf-bat-swings-at-wardens-hits.html Thu, 30 Apr 2009 23:59:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/04/nerf-bat-swings-at-wardens-hits.html Sorry guys, looks like a legacy bug that allows wardens lock agro tight will be fixed with the release of book 8. Here is the news right from Graalx2. This is just a heads up that we found some issues with this legacy. It is adding much more threat than it is supposed to, especially at high ranks. This is going to be corrected in Book 8. As a result all Warden legendary items will get a refund on their legacy points spent allowing you to allocate them again any way you see fit. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/04/mirkwood-instances-and-higher-level.html Fri, 24 Apr 2009 00:14:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/04/mirkwood-instances-and-higher-level.html The fine people over at Massively got to sit down with Jeffrey Steefel, Executive Producer of LotRO, Harry Teasley, Art Director for LotRO and Adam Mersky, Director of Communications for Turbine the other day on the phone. They spoke about the 2nd Anniversary of LotRO as well as the future. Book 8 Content Patch will bring us into the southern Mirkwood area. New game mechanic called Skirmishes. Basically a dynamic repeatable instance that will suit itself to your group size. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/04/lotro-gives-us-web-tools-some-issues.html Thu, 16 Apr 2009 22:50:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/04/lotro-gives-us-web-tools-some-issues.html I am very excited to share the announcement that Sapience made yesterday. The fan site and kinship web community has been waiting for over 2 years for tools to include on our own web sites that would allow us to display and link to official data on the lorebook. Well the wait is over! Fan sites can now include mouse over tooltips like this: If you mouse over the icon you will see a pop up of the item with stats. https://www.mikenorton.dev/posts/output6/test/ Thu, 16 Apr 2009 06:42:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/posts/output6/test/ Amarthgol Link to heading Robe of Deep Lore https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/04/thats-one-dead-dragon-and-munkiys-butt.html Thu, 09 Apr 2009 02:03:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/04/thats-one-dead-dragon-and-munkiys-butt.html Helegrod, oh how I wished to had seen you. I sadly, and foolishly, left the game just after the release of this 24 man raid a little over a year and a half ago. The only two times I saw the inside of this great dwarf keep was a solo run inside the instance on my Captain, and a pug. Both of which ended very tragically as you can imagine. So when I read on our kin’s raid calendar that we where going to take a trip back into time I jumped at the chance. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/04/movie-watch-order-of-middle-earth.html Sat, 04 Apr 2009 00:40:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/04/movie-watch-order-of-middle-earth.html I am a HUGE fan of user created art, both still and of the machinima variety. Coming back to LotRO from WOW one thing that has eluded my appetite is the amount of great movies made by the LotRO user base. You see, in WoW, the community cranking out wonderful videos is amazing. One could argue that it is due to the size of the user base. So when a wonderful video comes down the pipeline I share it as quick as I can. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/04/still-alive.html Thu, 02 Apr 2009 02:12:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/04/still-alive.html Just wanted to post a note to let everyone know that yes, I am alive. Right now things have been stop and go in regards to ministry and job search. Sending out another slew of resume’s today, not only to church/ministries, but also to some game companies. Need to find work. I know I am not alone in that so let’s all pray for those that are searching. Did have a great chance to hang out with my friend Taylor Kent from Snark Infested Waters the other week. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/04/pr-nightmare-for-turbine-and-no-sky-is.html Wed, 01 Apr 2009 14:17:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/04/pr-nightmare-for-turbine-and-no-sky-is.html As many already know, Turbine was hit with some major network issues Wednesday. In the middle of a busy day most servers started to report rubber banding (when trying to move forward you got shot back and could not make headway). OOC and Kin chats started to buzz with reports of others being stuck and not able to move. If you logged out you found you where not able to get back in. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/03/lotro-is-for-lovers.html Sun, 29 Mar 2009 13:57:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/03/lotro-is-for-lovers.html Ahhh… Spring is in the air, birds are twittering, and small furry woodland creatures are coming out of their cozy burrows to greet the sun. What better time to write about a couple’s perspective of LOTRO? I promise to keep the gag-inducing comments to that first line… really! Most MMOs could probably say that they are conducive to couple play, but I really feel that LOTRO is a perfect place for couples to play together. https://www.mikenorton.dev/posts/output6/minstrel-build-warrior-skald/ Sat, 28 Mar 2009 01:41:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/posts/output6/minstrel-build-warrior-skald/ Ahhh… Spring is in the air, birds are twittering, and small furry woodland creatures are coming out of their cozy burrows to greet the sun. What better time to write about a couple’s perspective of LOTRO? I promise to keep the gag-inducing comments to that first line… really! Most MMOs could probably say that they are conducive to couple play, but I really feel that LOTRO is a perfect place for couples to play together. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/03/lotro-for-wow-players-what-class-should.html Wed, 25 Mar 2009 03:54:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/03/lotro-for-wow-players-what-class-should.html If you spend any time at all on the official Turbine forums, one question that comes up over and over by wow players coming to the game is: What class is like (fill in the blank here)? Most MMO’s are comprised of the trinity of class makeup for grouping. Tank, Healer, and DPS. The tanks job is to be the one that hits a monster and holds its attention. The healer is responsible for making sure the tank and other members of the party stay alive. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/03/lotro-on-msnbc.html Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:10:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/03/lotro-on-msnbc.html Check out LotRO Live Producer Aaron “Rowan” Cambell on MSNBC.com. MSNBC Video My first impressions where. . .hmm. . “I hope this is not to corny.” But I think they did a good job, great shots of the gaming world. What do you think about in game interviews? Do you think the public at large will accept or even be drawn to the game, or put off by it? https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/03/initial-thoughts-on-book-7.html Wed, 18 Mar 2009 10:33:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/03/initial-thoughts-on-book-7.html Fantastic! I could probably just leave that one word, and that would be enough, but of course I’ll give a little bit more detail than that. Disclaimer: I’ve only played for a little while so far, so that’s the perspective that I’m looking at things with. Read on, fair reader, for my thoughts. Josh also wrote up a great summary of his experiences in Book 7, so check it out as well! https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/03/lothlorien-at-night-first-impressions.html Wed, 18 Mar 2009 08:01:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/03/lothlorien-at-night-first-impressions.html Though my St. Patrick’s Day was quite busy, I took some time at the end of the night to check out the new LOTRO free content update. For the past month, I’ve been reading everything I could get my hands on about Book 7, hoping for the tiniest morsel of information to hold me over until I could finally experience it for myself. Surprisingly, a lot of what I read was negative. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/03/rant-dont-make-me-pull-this-mmo-over.html Wed, 18 Mar 2009 01:20:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/03/rant-dont-make-me-pull-this-mmo-over.html Book 7 has come out. And the QQing has begun in force. Normally I try to let it all go, I do, no really, someone tell my wife to stop laughing at that statement. But after reading several things like this on the official forums and in game: Turbine sucks If the programmers where not so lazy book7=nerfbat book7=fail My heart seeker does 500 damage O.o On and on the whining has begun. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/03/lotro-combo-and-make-it-super-size.html Mon, 16 Mar 2009 01:44:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/03/lotro-combo-and-make-it-super-size.html Our friend over at MMeOw took to heart a conversation that began over at LotRO Follower’s blog. What a great couple of weeks it has been for the community! They have put together a wonderful RSS feed that takes all the LotRO blogs and puts them in one great big tube. It’s easier than ever to find a new blog about your favorite MMO. As we see more and more players heading to Lord of the Rings Online due to burn out from other games, we will see them looking for 3rd party sources of information and tools. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/03/book-7-to-come-out-tuesday-march-17.html Fri, 13 Mar 2009 02:23:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/03/book-7-to-come-out-tuesday-march-17.html You heard it. Right from Turbines own Twitter. LOTRO: Aren’t you glad you’re following us? You’re the first to know that Book 7: Leaves of Lorien arrives in NA on Tuesday, March 17! And now the mad race this weekend begins to get caught up. Cant wait to get into 7. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/03/minstrel-build-protector-of-song.html Thu, 12 Mar 2009 05:39:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/03/minstrel-build-protector-of-song.html Minstrels were introduced to three new trait sets in Mines of Moria: Watcher of Resolve - a healing trait set Warrior-Skald - DPS, DPS, DPS Protector of Song - group/solo skills for buffing and enhancement This build article will focus on Protector of Song, a great all-around trait set for soloing and grouping, and the one that I currently use almost all of the time. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/03/what-turbine-can-do-for-fansites.html Thu, 12 Mar 2009 00:53:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/03/what-turbine-can-do-for-fansites.html We were able to get a question into the LotRO Dev chat hosted by Stratics last night. Zephenia - *Manorton-UTB* Hi, this is Mike with Under the Banner blog. Many of us in the LotRO blog community have been trying to put our heads together on a way to help promote the lotro community. One question I have is the plans or availability of more tools for fansites and bloggers to use as related to the lorebook. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/03/lotro-for-wow-players-dude-where-are-my.html Tue, 10 Mar 2009 18:00:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/03/lotro-for-wow-players-dude-where-are-my.html After coming back to LotRO I tend to still try to do things the same way I did them in WoW. For example, when I see that magical swirl of light around me informing me that I made another level, DING!, I find myself hitting my N key to open my talent sheet. DOH! LotRO does not use talents to customize your class into one of three modes. Instead they use a system based on traits, consisting of deeds, virtues, and legends. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/03/bilbo-baggins-burglar-tools.html Tue, 10 Mar 2009 14:32:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/03/bilbo-baggins-burglar-tools.html A guide for those new to the Burglar class Bilbo Baggins trekked across Middle-Earth to help a raid group of dwarves complete a quest that had been in their trackers for quite some time. They journeyed together to the Lonely Mountain instance, where the elite dragon Smaug slept. Upon arriving at the final boss room, Bilbo activated Sneak and crept up to the dragon where, using his Burgle skill, he managed to steal a large two-handled cup. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/03/minstrel-preview-of-book-7.html Tue, 10 Mar 2009 13:06:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/03/minstrel-preview-of-book-7.html One of the classes hardest hit after the release of Mines of Moria was the Minstrel. Book 7 looks to be a great step forward in fixing some of the problems that arose after release, but it’ll be hard to say whether it will or not until it goes live. My main is a 60 Minstrel, so I thought that I would give my perspective on the changes, and of course, your mileage may vary. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/03/new-build-on-test-realm-tomorrow.html Tue, 10 Mar 2009 03:29:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/03/new-build-on-test-realm-tomorrow.html According to our favorite Community Manager, Patience, we should expect to see a new build on Bullroarer tomorrow. They will be opening up Eyes & Guard Tavern, which means you will be able to level a toon to several level ranges, including 60, for testing purposes. Provided Eyes & Guard act like it did in the past. We will do some testing and posting. If you have a feature you want tested post a comment here and we will try to get to it. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/02/mikes-week-in-review.html Fri, 27 Feb 2009 05:02:00 -0800 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/02/mikes-week-in-review.html Well, as you have noticed it has been a little while since we have posted anything on the blog. Moving and then the family getting sick can really toss a wrench in things. So . . what has been going on over at Pastor Playz this week? Computer Issues This has been the week of computer nightmares. First I decided to erase my Vista partition to go 100% Win 7. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/02/lost-and-bored-need-new-goals_04.html Wed, 04 Feb 2009 01:32:00 -0800 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2009/02/lost-and-bored-need-new-goals_04.html I have been feeling a since of being lost of late. I just hit another goal of mine, to get Bricklethumb, my dwarf hunter, to level 80. This makes my 4th 80 in WotLK, which according to some would label me hardcore. I am not so sure I am hard core, but I do like to push myself in all areas of my life to see how well I can do. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/12/frosty-deathknight-was-jolly-happy-soul_11.html Thu, 11 Dec 2008 00:03:00 -0800 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/12/frosty-deathknight-was-jolly-happy-soul_11.html Those of you who have known me for some time will understand my deep love of odd or non normal specs for a class. I love the challenge of making a looked down upon rotation work, and I actually giggle when I can show that given the right player, any spec of any class can be useful in most situations. With that said let me introduce you to Digory my frosty Deathknight. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/11/making-of-junkie.html Tue, 25 Nov 2008 02:57:00 -0800 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/11/making-of-junkie.html Hi, everyone! I know, who is this? Right? Well, I am Mike’s wife and playing partner. I am probably the last person you would ever expect to play WoW. I never thought I would play computer games myself. I started playing WoW in order to have more in common with Mike. He has always been into computing and computer games, and I felt that I needed to at least understand what he was talking about. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/11/79-around-corner-and-other-fun_25.html Tue, 25 Nov 2008 02:12:00 -0800 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/11/79-around-corner-and-other-fun_25.html Tatiaana, aka Tanya, reminded me this morning while I was grumbling about server maintenance getting in the way of leveling, that I had not written on the blog for some time. So . . . *smile* For all our wow readers, a wow update. We have both been rather busy since the release of Wrath of the Lich King. Bethany and I waited at Gamestop at midnight on the 12th in anticipation of going home with the 2 pre ordered copies we had purchased. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/11/warning-fake-blizzard-phishing-scam_16.html Sun, 16 Nov 2008 06:56:00 -0800 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/11/warning-fake-blizzard-phishing-scam_16.html Please pass this along! I just received this email as well as others in my guild. This is NOT from blizzard. It is a Phishing attack trying to get you to log into a system which will provide your username and password to them to log in and clean your account out. The email claims you are trying to sell your account and wants you to log in to verify you own it. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/11/qq-more-noob-wow-and-church_12.html Wed, 12 Nov 2008 00:42:00 -0800 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/11/qq-more-noob-wow-and-church_12.html A friend asked me last night. “So, you don’t like emo do you?” My answer was, “No, is it to much to want people to learn how to adjust to real life and not expect everything on a plate?” And it got me thinking. Right now is an example of lots of over privileged people crying that the world is ending because something they “CHOOSE” to do is being impacted by REAL WORLD issues beyond the control of the programmers. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/11/can-level-past-70-without-wotlk.html Wed, 12 Nov 2008 00:13:00 -0800 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/11/can-level-past-70-without-wotlk.html While reading blue posts I got a conformation that you will NOT be able to level past 70 without the expansion. Taar asks: Will I be able to start leveling past 70 at midnight on Thursday, even if I do not have the expansion yet? - Taar Nethaera responds: Unpossible. https://blue.mmo-champion.com/1/12454631457-level-to-80-without-wotlk.html https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/11/midnight-wotlk-release-ill-be-there_11.html Tue, 11 Nov 2008 12:35:00 -0800 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/11/midnight-wotlk-release-ill-be-there_11.html For those of you in the WoW universe you know that Wrath of the Lich King is coming out tomorrow at midnight. Bethany and I will be at the Gamestop in Yuba City at 10 PM 1070 Harter Rd # 102. If you happen to be in Northern California, and by chance going to be in Yuba City, come say hi. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/11/is-arthas-closer-extended-maintenance_04.html Tue, 04 Nov 2008 04:34:00 -0800 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/11/is-arthas-closer-extended-maintenance_04.html Blizzards has posted a note on the log on screen. We encountered some issues and need to extend the maintenance. We currently estimate that all realms will be playable by approximately 1:00pm PST. Thank you for your patience. I am speculating that we will see the next large pre expansion event. It only makes since after the popular plague. I do hope so. . I’m getting bored. . https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/11/prot-paladin-and-you_04.html Tue, 04 Nov 2008 02:03:00 -0800 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/11/prot-paladin-and-you_04.html I know I have written a lot about Paravel and her lovely, wonderful, active tree form lately. I also know that you might be wondering just what has happen to all the news about Resto Druids. Well that will all still come. BUT. . .I have recently dusted off my shield and mace, and brought Valimonde back into action since patch 3.0.2. And right from the start I have to say. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/11/loving-guild-patch-kara-coffee-vent_02.html Sun, 02 Nov 2008 02:08:00 -0800 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/11/loving-guild-patch-kara-coffee-vent_02.html Last night I ventured into the musty spooky halls of Karazahn for the first time since patch 3.0.2 was released with my new guild. A little over a quarter of our raid had NEVER been in Kara up to this point. Besides the completely new people to what many call the “entry level” raid instance, about three of our other members where on classes that they had never brought to Kara. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/10/multibox-light-show_30.html Thu, 30 Oct 2008 07:29:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/10/multibox-light-show_30.html Was chatting with a friend when in the middle of Stormwind on The Scryers server 5 shaman showed up to give us a light show. [gallery] Link to heading Comments: Link to heading The Link to heading CombsMona - Jul 2, 2010The loan are essential for guys, which would like to start their own business. As a fact, it’s comfortable to receive a college loan. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/10/busy-wow-day_25.html Sat, 25 Oct 2008 17:44:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/10/busy-wow-day_25.html Its been a while, but the fun in the game we love to play is back. Tanya’s mage hit 70. I grabed this screen shot and made a wallpaper Let me know if you would like the wallpaper. And the Scourge invasion was in full swing. I hopped on Val and was able to get revered with the Argent Dawn and get a tabbard. Great time indeed. Great time indeed. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/10/project-move-para-custom-themes_25.html Sat, 25 Oct 2008 05:14:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/10/project-move-para-custom-themes_25.html /company experiment mode on I have found a new home. . Now I need to transfer Paravel and Val, and then Tanya’s mage. and . . yea I know. In the lean times of the budget crises with Tanya not getting a contract after last years school year, and my attempt to get the company off the ground, times, as with most in the country, are tight financially. So. . I have taken a custom theme I was doing for Deep Magic and I am offering it as limited edition theme for 10 lucky guilds out there. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/10/fast-feathers-ftw_24.html Fri, 24 Oct 2008 05:02:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/10/fast-feathers-ftw_24.html Well after a bit of time I have hit a mile stone and met a goal on Paravel. After this long: She has FINALY got Swift Flight Form! Yea! Man can she move now. . To bad it wont matter in Northrend. . But its DONE!!! And im 5000 gold poorer now. . Oh well. . https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/10/guild-shirt-designs_23.html Thu, 23 Oct 2008 00:47:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/10/guild-shirt-designs_23.html Mark me down for a new christmas gift. A new partnership between Blizzard and swagdog.com has appeard on the wow launcher this morning. With this company you can order a guild T-shirt or hoodie to proudly wear your colors. woot! I know I want 1 or 2 or 3. Warcraft.SwagDog.com - World of Warcraft Custom Guild T-Shirt Builder WoW Shirts. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/10/podcast-17-providing-truth-to-citizens.html Wed, 22 Oct 2008 09:39:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/10/podcast-17-providing-truth-to-citizens.html Podcast 17 · Providing truth to Citizens!. A friend of mine just posted his new podcast. Its a HL2 centered show. He tells me mature content so be advised. I did some voice acting for them. . Let me know if you can tell where. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/10/new-springwidget.html Wed, 22 Oct 2008 07:46:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/10/new-springwidget.html Get this widget! Visit the Widget Gallery https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/10/jon-radoffs-entrepreneur-20-blog-blog.html Wed, 15 Oct 2008 04:25:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/10/jon-radoffs-entrepreneur-20-blog-blog.html Jon Radoff’s Entrepreneur 2.0 Blog » Blog Archive » Interviewed about the Future of Gaming. Very nice intervew about the future of gaming. Althogh I find a slight seperation with Jon on Casual vs Hardocre. I think its time to define a new vocabulary to seperate the labels from a genera compared to a play style. Check it out. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/10/patches-and-talents-and-specs-oh-my_14.html Tue, 14 Oct 2008 05:05:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/10/patches-and-talents-and-specs-oh-my_14.html The great thing about having a blog is I can post things simply so I can remember and look up later :) You should try it. With the patch being released all talents and sepcs are reset. Head on over to WoWhead’s Resto Druid Link to heading Comments: Link to heading After reading a good post on some of the new resto… Link to heading Mike Norton - Oct 3, 2008After reading a good post on some of the new resto builds I went with this for now. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/10/oh-noez-my-mods-are-borked_13.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 07:28:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/10/oh-noez-my-mods-are-borked_13.html Well we will be getting WoW 3 tomorrow. One thing I am doing, beside a lot of design work and such not related to wow, is updating and getting ready for the patch. I am a veteran of a couple of major UI/API changes and know how hard the switch for some will be when they log in tomorrow and find that most of the addons they use are broken. I hope to help at least aim you in the right direction to make this transition go a little smoother. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/10/pre-expansion-blues-what-do-i-do_13.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 04:02:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/10/pre-expansion-blues-what-do-i-do_13.html I’ts Monday. Enough said. I spent most of last night reading forums, reviewing WoWjutsu, and checking realm list creation dates and data center data locations in an attempt to try and find a place to call home for the expansion. I tell you, its not easy. Here is my delima, and please excuse any rambling as it has been a rambling weekend. I am currently playing my main, Paravel, on the PvE Misha US server. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/10/blizzcon-ghostcrawler-is-not-hawt-chick_10.html Fri, 10 Oct 2008 07:38:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/10/blizzcon-ghostcrawler-is-not-hawt-chick_10.html Time for class descusion. First. Ghostcrawler is NOT a gril. The room exploded in laughter. Best line ever about the new buff system “We want to get back to where you bring the player and not the class.” The new buffing system now affects the whole raid. So now it will take fewer buffers to fill out the group and leave room for others to come. You know, like your friends. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/10/blizzcon-notes-from-ui-conf_10.html Fri, 10 Oct 2008 06:13:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/10/blizzcon-notes-from-ui-conf_10.html We have confirmation in an upcoming dual spec ability. Meaning we can have 2 specs to switch between. At the same time the developers stated they will be addressing the specing UI to give ability to make sure you do not spend points without a confirmation. Not only is auto shot for a hunter fixed and will not be clipped by another ability, but not for priests, mages and locks wanding is the same. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/10/wow-machinima-flyby-test-1_9336.html Sat, 04 Oct 2008 12:23:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/10/wow-machinima-flyby-test-1_9336.html Flyby Test from Paravel Communications on Vimeo. This is a WIP test of few ingame screen captures. Thinking about putting together a project later this month. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/10/want-to-know-how-to-make-gold-in-wow_02.html Thu, 02 Oct 2008 07:34:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/10/want-to-know-how-to-make-gold-in-wow_02.html 2+2=Inscription Thats how. /discuse https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/10/patch-just-in-nick-of-time_02.html Thu, 02 Oct 2008 00:56:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/10/patch-just-in-nick-of-time_02.html Repost of https://wehatepugs.com/blog/paravel/2008/10/02/patch-just-nick-time Wowinsider posted about an official speculative release date for the 3.0.2 content patch. Blizzard poster Nethaera. posted this little bit of information on the first. We’re currently planning to end the fourth Arena season on October 14, 2008, and as always – this date could easily change. This Arena Season is only ending in respect to the ladder, meaning we’ll be taking a snapshot of the season’s ladder and then go through our normal process to determine who is eligible for the end-of-season rewards. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/09/6-random-gamerz-things-got-tagged.html Tue, 30 Sep 2008 11:54:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/09/6-random-gamerz-things-got-tagged.html Got tagged by Taylor Kent https://thesnarkyavenger.com Here are the rules for those I’m tagging. Check the list after my 6 Random Gamerz Things to see if you’ve been tagged. 1. Link to the person who tagged you. 2. Post the rules on your blog. 3. Write six random things about yourself. 4. Tag six-ish people at the end of your post. 5. Let each person know he or she has been tagged. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/09/lady-sylvanas-new-uhm-body.html Thu, 25 Sep 2008 06:59:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/09/lady-sylvanas-new-uhm-body.html Click to Play Lady Sylvanas got a new model for the beta and ptr patch of 8982. I think it looks great. What do you think? This video was originally shared on blip.tv by paravel with a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial license. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/09/lady-s-has-new-look_25.html Thu, 25 Sep 2008 05:13:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/09/lady-s-has-new-look_25.html Ok, I admit I’m a lore junky and it never sat well that Lady Sylvanas Windrunner, you know, the Banshee Queen of the Forsaken? Well anyway, in game she is portrayed by a Night Elf model. Some hoped that when Blood Elfs, more in line with stature and looks of High Elves, where introduced in Burning Crusade that they would change her model since she is a High Elf. But No. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/09/casual-raiders-unite_22.html Mon, 22 Sep 2008 02:03:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/09/casual-raiders-unite_22.html Over the past couple of years I have had the great pleasure of being the GM of some awesome guilds, filled with some awesome people. One thing that has become very clear however in the past year. *holds a candle and stands slowly to his feet* “I am a casual raider” That’s right, you heard me. For a long time it was enough to level and hang out with friends. I came from an RP server and enjoyed RP and events as well, as much as they can burn you out at times. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/09/nerf-bat-falls_18.html Thu, 18 Sep 2008 15:53:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/09/nerf-bat-falls_18.html The beta giveth and the beta taketh away. Resto Druid Changes 8962 hit the beta servers today and some things changed. First, all the going on and on about Flourish, now called Wild growth has been touched. You know that supper awesome aoe heal they gave us that would heal 2212 over 7 seconds! Well now it will only heal 469 over 7 seconds. Its not 2K heal but it is still usable. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/09/paravel-in-nexus.html Wed, 17 Sep 2008 14:31:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/09/paravel-in-nexus.html Click to Play I got a chance to FINALLY get into an instance on the WotLK Beta server and try out the new Resto Druid talents. I’m pleased to say I am VERY excited! Come watch with me as we clear out NeXus, compared to BC’s Blood Furnace in equivalent. Link to heading Comments: Link to heading I think a woolly mammoth would look great for my D… Link to heading tanyanorton - Sep 5, 2008I think a woolly mammoth would look great for my Draenei. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/09/resto-tree-i-think-i-love-you_17.html Wed, 17 Sep 2008 08:09:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/09/resto-tree-i-think-i-love-you_17.html I FINALY got a chance to get on the beta servers . . and play. The lag had been so bad this weekend that it was impossible to do anything. So when all the kids went back to school I took the opportunity to log in on Monday to check it out again. >[LFG] Izak: Looking for a healer for Nexus. >[LFG] Paravel: I’d love to come give it a try, although I have not been in there yet. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/09/wotlk-release-announced-111308_15.html Mon, 15 Sep 2008 00:59:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/09/wotlk-release-announced-111308_15.html It’s official. Apparently Blizz last night allowed WoWhead to post this new shiny front page. More news has come down the pipe as the release of the Collectors Edition has also been released. And there was much rejoicing in the streets! What does all this mean? It means that Warhammer has some competition. I have to admit that the pre-expansion blues have set in, and set in hard. Before Burning Crusade was released many players became disinterested in the game. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/09/stormwind-harbor-wotlk-beta.html Fri, 12 Sep 2008 14:51:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/09/stormwind-harbor-wotlk-beta.html Click to Play SPOILER WARNING!So I took Digory on a little tour. The new harbor looks amazing! Im also blowing out the cobwebs from the creative part of my mind. Im trying Blip.tv for hosting video that I shoot while in the beta. And I hope to have a little more This video was originally shared on blip.tv by paravel with a Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike license. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/09/resto-druid-talent-build-test-no-1_12.html Fri, 12 Sep 2008 03:03:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/09/resto-druid-talent-build-test-no-1_12.html Well, my brain hurts a little after taking Paravel’s spec from the live server. 19/0/42 and some new things in Lich with a 16/0/55 I’m a little worried about loosing from the balance tree. This is where I got my ability to solo from. But with some of the new survivability things added to the resto tree we might be able to hold our own. We shall see. Ill load Paravel up and give it a test. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/09/death-knight-story-lore-giggle-fit_12.html Fri, 12 Sep 2008 02:32:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/09/death-knight-story-lore-giggle-fit_12.html Ok, I have to admit I was one of the guys who had little to no interest in a Death Knight, the new hero class in the upcoming Wrath of the Lich King expansion for World of Warcraft. To me I have enough on my plate to worry about my 4 70’s getting to 80 and seeing new content. AND I was not to keen on the idea of being this “evil” guy who got his kicks out of running around killing things without mercy. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/09/paravel-tree-respec.html Thu, 11 Sep 2008 13:05:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/09/paravel-tree-respec.html Starting with the beta we will see a lot of new things moved around in the talent trees. While patching my game I spent some time looking at Paravel’s Resto Spec of 19/0/42 and translating it over for Wrath. What I have seen so far is some pretty cool things. First Improved Mark of the Wild Improved Mark of the Wild https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/09/wotlk-i-in-w00t_8259.html Thu, 11 Sep 2008 05:57:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/09/wotlk-i-in-w00t_8259.html Thanks to a friend I got a beta key! w00t! Paravel is on the server and im downloading. Get ready for some Resto Druid info! YES!!! https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/09/paravel-communications-is-up.html Tue, 09 Sep 2008 01:24:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/09/paravel-communications-is-up.html Well, after several months of trying to get bearing after resigning at First Baptist I have begun to take to heart the comments my friends have been telling me for years. I have been developing web sites for guilds, churches, personal use for a long time. Every time I finish a job someone would comment how they liked it, or how cool something was on it. Soon the conversation would turn to “You should do this for a living. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/09/frost-build_07.html Sun, 07 Sep 2008 00:50:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/09/frost-build_07.html Been toying with the WotLK talent calc on wowhead. Here is what im looking at for my mage. https://wotlk.wowhead.com/?talent=oZZiAcIsfz0ddgcst https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/09/ding-30_06.html Sat, 06 Sep 2008 05:20:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/09/ding-30_06.html Bethany and I have been playing with the Refer a Friend program. We set up an account just for Bethany, err, rather she purchased her own account. We are getting 3 times the XP. So far we have flown through levels. Only issue is we out level a zone and have to figure out where to go. I’m going to do a write up on the pros and cons later. But for now, some Screen Shots. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/08/cool-weighted-wowhead-filters_22.html Fri, 22 Aug 2008 02:43:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/08/cool-weighted-wowhead-filters_22.html Ok, so last night I’m mulling over in my head gear for Wunderkind. I discovered the weighted filter search on wowhead a while ago but never really dove into it until now. I have taken the preset filter for Holy/Disp priests and modified it some. Right now my weights look like this. Stamina: 75 Int: 75 Healing Done By Spells: 50 Spirit: 50 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/08/twinking-priest_21.html Thu, 21 Aug 2008 08:06:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2008/08/twinking-priest_21.html [caption id="" align=“alignright” width=“227” caption=“Twinked Healz”][/caption] Well, its pre expansion time. And I’m experiencing the same thing I did before BC came out. Bored stiff. I know their are lots of things one can do, but I have chosen to work on twinking out a clothie. Introducing, Wunderkind. Wunder here is a priest that for the time being I will concentrate on having so much plus heal that she will be nearly unstoppable. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2007/10/back-to-wow_02.html Tue, 02 Oct 2007 01:37:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2007/10/back-to-wow_02.html Well it has been some time since I have updated ye old blogg so here goes a coffee induced attempt to let you know what has been going on. After months of playing LotRO and really loving it I hit the MMORPG brick wall. Ealdor was 50, Kilii is 45 and there was no way left to do anything solo. The only thing left was grind for rep, which I had managed to get the highest rep for the dwarfs only to find nothing new opened up, or grind for traits and titles. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2007/07/nothing-new-to-see-here-ok-maybe-little.html Mon, 16 Jul 2007 09:04:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2007/07/nothing-new-to-see-here-ok-maybe-little.html Ok, just got home from Fresno and thought I would post something. Tanya and I left the girls with my parents and we are concentrating on getting some ministry stuff put together as well as leveling our characters in LotRO. Here is a screeshot of Tanya’s Guardian at level 45. If you are interested in joining us in playing a great online game, Lord of the Rings Online, then drop me a comment and we can help you get set up. https://www.mikenorton.dev/2007/05/here-we-go-again_4441.html Tue, 29 May 2007 04:27:00 -0700 https://www.mikenorton.dev/2007/05/here-we-go-again_4441.html Hi, I’m Mike. I pastor a church in Norther California and I play video games. I have been gaming for many many years. I have struggled with many issues and just want to find a way to make it all work out. https://www.mikenorton.dev/noobtaco/ Mon, 01 Jan 0001 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.mikenorton.dev/noobtaco/ Hi there, I’m Mike - aka NoobTaco 👋 Link to heading I’m a Developer, Gamer and Teacher!! Link to heading 💾 I just launched released my first WoW Addon: NoobTacoUI! 🌱 I’m currently learning everything 🤣 👯 I’m looking to collaborate with other content creators 🥅 2020 Goals: Contribute more to Open Source projects ⚡ Fun fact: I love to draw and play guitar / drums Connect with me: Link to heading https://www.mikenorton.dev/contact/ Mon, 01 Jan 0001 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.mikenorton.dev/contact/ My inbox is always open. Whether you have a question or just want to say hi, I’ll try my best to get back to you! email: mike@corcra.dev https://www.mikenorton.dev/projects/ Mon, 01 Jan 0001 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.mikenorton.dev/projects/ Nothing to see here… Move along!