Author: Tee

The Leviathan Raid: Beaten in Six Hours

You know know we Guardians love to learn a good raid, but before sitting at the feet of Raid masters like ZG Photo or LuluSoccer, you have to remember that they all start from somewhere. That first step. that incredibly humbling moment where the Raid Team Leader and their crew have no idea what is coming next.

Yesterday, a fireteam named The Legend Himself stepped forward to face the challenge of Destiny 2’s first raid, Leviathan. They completed it in six hours.

From Koatu.com:

Destiny 2’s first raid, Leviathan, went live at 10am pacific today. Immediately, hardcore clans got to work. Hours later, a team of players cracked it. The Legend Himself had the honor of being the first team ever to beat a raid in Destiny 2. You can see the spoilerific final moments below. Chat, as you might expect, goes wild.

See the whole story, complete with spoiler video of Leviathan’s finale, here.

The Legend Himself, led by ScaRdrow, has an incredible history with Destiny Raids as he and his team accomplished not only the Rise of Iron Raid Wrath of the Machine (a personal favorite of Tee’s) in record time, but accomplished what many considered the impossible and unimaginable: a solo face-off with Aksis. Challenges are nothing new to this team, and what a feat to pull off in the first week of Destiny 2.

At the time of posting this, ZG Photo (friend of the podcast) is entering his ninth hour with a skilled Raid team; but Raids are not meant to be easy. They are meant to be a challenge, and we Guardians salute not only The Legend Himself, but ZG, Lulu, OneActual, 3vil_Aura, and others taking on what can only be described as an incredible task.

Well done, Guardians. Well done.

A new promo for Happy Hour from the Tower!

New game.

New show art.

New promo.

Remember to leave us a comment or questions
for the show at 703.791.1701, or here at the blog.
We’ll talk about it!

And remember, you can find the show on iTunes, Stitcher, and Google Play!
Subscribe, listen, and drop us a review.

Eyes up, Guardian!
Time to give up the Ghost.
Thanks for listening. 

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Episode #019: A Review of Destiny 2

It’s finally here!

Destiny 2 has arrived for PS4 and XBox (hang tight, PC players — it will be worth the wait!) and the Guardians from Happy Hour from the Tower: A Destiny Podcast are bringing you their spoiler-free review of the game that has been receiving stellar reviews across the board.

After a week (give or take a day) of gameplay, here’s what the Guardians think!

What are your thoughts on Destiny 2? Give us your own review (spoiler-free, please) at 703.791.1701 or podcast (at) happyhourfromthetower (dot) com. We’d love to hear from you!

00:00 — Introduction

  • Nick is turned into a drop-in!
  • Brandon really should not have made that crack about Tee on the Geek Wolfpack Podcast.
  • Coach has returned!
  • And wow, did he ever pick a terrible time to move south!

2:00 — Episode #019: A Review of Destiny 2

  • Destiny 2 is here! Whoo-hoo!!!
  • Not many spoilers in this episode, we promise!
  • Where we are in both character development and progress in the storyline.
  • Overall thoughts from the Guardians on Destiny 2 
    • Shout-out to our last episode and our discussion with ZGPhoto on  Destiny as a Beta.
    • Brandon doubles down and states Destiny on its weakest day was not The Division.
    • Nick does the same, only with Iron Fist.
    • A lot more to do this go-around, not just with story but with the world on a whole.
  • There’s a show in the hopper that we may have to try and drop into the feed.
  • Even the villain is more active in this sequel.
  • And we creep up the precipice of spoilers, but manage to pull it back…
  • …but Tee steals a bit of Nick’s thunder totally by accident. (Did you know the Consul was this actor?)
  • The game’s most terrifying moment.
  • From Nick Kelly: Destiny 1 is Alien. Destiny 2 is Aliens.
  • Ron’s disappointment: Your Silent Character with a Ghost Interpreter
    • A subject also covered on Return to Orbit.
    • For Tee, it’s no big deal. For Cayde-6, it’s an Easter Egg.
  • Other little nods and touches throughout the new world.

17:22 — The P.I.Y. Workshop 2017, presented by Tee Morris & Chuck Tomasi of Podcasting for Dummies, 3rd Edition

18:28 — Episode #019: A Review of Destiny 2 (Part 2)

  • Still got it, even across the distance.
  • Tee goes nuts over the score of Destiny 2.
  • Let’s talk about voice talent…
  • Mechanical Improvements in Destiny 2
    • Fast Travel — Brandon loves that!
    • A tiny touch in the Map that the Guardians are appreciating hard
    • Nice nod to Donkey Kong
    • Nick doesn’t have a problem with overkill from time to time.
    • A drop-in that we will no longer be playing on our show…
    • Improved Foley
    • Improved Public Events, and the benefits of Heroic Public Events
    • Some love for the Adventures
  •  What a ride! Worth the Wait!

29:20 — Destiny in the News & Closing Thoughts

  • The Family that raids together stays together! Check out Michi Gopp and his family!
  • Michi’s got advice for running into Germans in the Crucible…
  • News Item One: Curse of Osiris DLC leaks, Bungie Confirms It’s Legit
  • News Item Two: Here’s What’s Coming Up THIS MONTH in Destiny 2. (Just. This. Month.)
  • What are we looking forward to in Destiny 2?
  • THE BIG QUESTION: What Destiny 2 worth the wait?
  • Hope you have enjoyed the podcasting rally to launch week!
  • And Brandon gives the Creative Commons tag a try. Not as easy as he thought it would be…
  • Let us know what you think of the Destiny experience and how Destiny 2 is treating you!
    • Voicemail — 703.791.1701
    • Email — podcast (at) happyhourfromthetower (dot) com
    • And make sure to leave us a review on iTunes! Let people know about this podcast.

Remember to leave us a comment or questions
for the show at 703.791.1701, or here at the blog.
We’ll talk about it!

And remember, you can find the show on iTunes, Stitcher, and Google Play!
Subscribe, listen, and drop us a review.

Eyes up, Guardian!
Time to give up the Ghost.
Thanks for listening. 

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Episode #018: Destiny 1 As Beta (with special guest, ZG Photo!)

So…Twitch streamer ZGPhoto…

Can’t get rid of the guy…

…and that’s fine by us!

Happy Hour from the Tower: A Destiny Podcast brings you right up to the eve of Destiny 2 with a look back on Destiny, featuring ZGPhoto. Now you remember Zack? We apparently didn’t scare or piss off the seasoned Guardian after his interview as he elected to stick around for another show…and we’re more than okay with our guest Guardian chiming in on the idea of Destiny being a giant Beta for the game about to drop within 24 hours!

Truth be told, we had a grand time with Zack back in Episode #17, and it is a little unsettling how well he fits in with us at the Tower. Who knows? I think a live podcast from GuardianCon may be in order!

Got a question for Zack or the Guardians at the Tower? Give us feedback at 703.791.1701 or podcast (at) happyhourfromthetower (dot) com. We’d love to hear from you!

00:00 — Introduction

  • ZG fits so well into the HHFTT crew, we already have a drop-in set aside, just for him!
  • Even with Vegas crud, Nick cannot duplicate Coach’s homage to Ghaul.
  • Nick and Brandon are not making recording in their studio any easier.
  • Long distance does nothing to dampen Zack’s comic timing.

2:07 — Episode #018: Destiny 1 As Beta (with special guest, ZGPhoto)

  • Great minds think alike.
  • Wow. Tee talks like he shoots: sloppily and all over the target.
  • From Zack’s perspective, the early days of Destiny felt like a test. A long test, one grind at a time.
  • Nick may not be the PvP or Raid Aficionado, but when it comes to Lore…
  • A distinct improvement between Destiny 2 Beta and Destiny 1: the storytelling.
  • And what a shame with the wasted voice talent behind The Stranger. (See our voice talent episode for more on that.)
  • Returning to the debate of Dinklebot vs Nolanbot
  • The show’s hardcore gamer, Brandon, chimes in with his own thoughts on Destiny 2 and how the Destiny 1 journey unfolds.
    • Of course Destiny 2 looks like Destiny 1. It’s a sequel, after all.
    • Tee lets his Warlock Elitism show. Again.
    • Haters: Complaining just to complain.
    • We want the same thing as before…but bigger and better.

14:09— GameStop of Innovation Center (Manassas, Virginia)

14:45 — Destiny in the News and Wrapping Up (with special guest, ZGPhoto)

  • Tee didn’t even have to drop the prompt. Zack’s got this!
  • Jumping back to focus on ZGPhoto and his Twitch stream (which you should be watching…)
  • Destiny in the News
  • Oh, wait a minute, one more question for Zack…
    • The origin story of the Photobombers
    • When finding a niche, find something that flows.
  • Some side-love for MAGFest as we talk about #DestinyGoals and GuardianCon 2018
  • What about the Raid Clinic Zack and James Werk host? Will that be returning for Destiny 2?
    • And why Zack is trying to avoid any of the spoilery Destiny 2 rumors and news pre-release.
    • Plans are in play for the next incarnation of Zack’s and James’ Raid Clinics
  • Considering “Public Clans” and “Guided Games” options coming with Destiny 2
  • Hard lessons learned from Destiny
  • Let us know what you think of the Destiny experience and how Destiny 2 is treating you!
    • Voicemail — 703.791.1701
    • Email — podcast (at) happyhourfromthetower (dot) com
    • And make sure to leave us a review on iTunes! Let people know about this podcast.
  • Where to find ZG…
  • Having Twitch streamers in studio is good fun. Cool stuff happens.

Remember to leave us a comment or questions
for the show at 703.791.1701, or here at the blog.
We’ll talk about it!

And remember, you can find the show on iTunes, Stitcher, and Google Play!
Subscribe, listen, and drop us a review.

Eyes up, Guardian!
Time to give up the Ghost.
Thanks for listening. 

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Episode #017: An Interview with ZG Photo!

We had so much fun hosting Twitch streamer 3vil_Aura on Happy Hour from the Tower: A Destiny Podcast that we decided to do it again!

Welcome to the podcast Zack or ZG Photo of The Photobombers. With years of streaming and a good amount of gaming under the belt, Zack pays a visit to the Tower to talk about his experiences with Destiny, his love for the raids (including King’s Fall!), and his thoughts on the recent Destiny 2 Beta…and hockey.

Yes. Hockey.

Got a question for Zack or the Guardians at the Tower? Give us feedback at 703.791.1701 or podcast (at) happyhourfromthetower (dot) com. We’d love to hear from you!

00:00 — Introduction

  • Trying a new recording location. Tee’s still figuring out where everything is.
  • SWEET — ZGPhoto is on the line!
  • Zack is quite the hugger, especially at events like GuardianCon.
  • By the sound of Nick’s voice, what happens in Vegas doesn’t always stay in Vegas.
  • A little bit of a GuardianCon tease before jumping in with both feet…

2:42 — Episode #017: An Interview with ZG Photo!

  • You met ZGPhoto in our first video episode. Now, get to know him and what his channel is all about.
  • Zack loves some Destiny, but PUB-G is an experience!
  • What made Raids Zack’s thing on Destiny & Coffee
  • A bit of love for Logan Scott
  • For any KinderGuardians, what is the difference between a Strike, a Nightfall, and a Raid.
  • How does ZG Photo call the shots with players he has never ran with. (Sometimes, it is not as easy as one would think.)
  • Brandon put ZG Photo on the spot
    • Zack’s Favorite Raid: Vault of Glass and Wrath of the Machine
    • Nick draws first blood…and Tee goes on the defensive.
    • The show’s favorite drop-in, an encore play
    • Why King’s Fall is not Zack’s favorite raid.

17:29 — Podcast It Yourself Workshop 2017

18:10 —Episode #017: An Interview with ZG Photo! (Part Two)

  • Zack’s fitting in just fine, isn’t he?
  • Zack’s Favorite Raid Visually: King’s Fall (Yes, King’s Fall!)
  • On Wrath of the Machine, Tee was not the only one sight-seeing in Aksis’ Server Room…
  • ZG Photo chimes in on the Destiny 2 Beta
    • It was a “safe” Beta.
    • There needed to be more, on both PvE and PvP.
    • Quick shout-out to Orion who’s in step with Zack.
    • Why are our Destiny 2 characters looking like…cartoons?
    • PvP felt smarter.
  • Thoughts on The Crucible
    • Matches felt slower.
    • 4v4 was a lot of fun in Countdown
    • Brandon’s Joy: Hunters will have knives in their melee
  • Returning to GuardianCon 2017 and Zack’s one-day experience
  • Some quick-love to Molly…and her non-gaming talents.
  • Changing gears in the show…
    • Dirtiest team in the National Hockey League
    • Nick and Zack settle in for some hard hockey talk…and it is so much fun to listen to them go!
    • And the Red Wings are getting a new stadium!
  • Serious love for Detroit. (Tee was just there last month!)

34:47 — Feedback & Wrapping Up

  • And Zac gets to join us for a Feedback segment! How cool is that?
  • Wait a sec… who called our show?!
  • YES, #BlondeSolo HERSELF CALLED OUR SHOW!!!
  • Oh, Zachary, you do not know who Courtenay Taylor is? You need to listen to this show.
  • That voicemail has aged like a fine scotch, it has. No, seriously…
  • Welcome to Happy Hour from the Tower, the most adorable Destiny podcast in the podosphere!
  • And Zack was worried about following 3vil_Aura’s interview. Holy Hannah!
  • So we’ve heard from #BlondeSolo. NOW IT’S YOUR TURN!
    • Voicemail — 703.791.1701
    • Email — podcast (at) happyhourfromthetower (dot) com
    • And make sure to leave us a review on iTunes! Let people know about this podcast.
  • Where to find ZG…
  • Having Twitch streamers in studio is good fun. Cool stuff happens.

Remember to leave us a comment or questions
for the show at 703.791.1701, or here at the blog.
We’ll talk about it!

And remember, you can find the show on iTunes, Stitcher, and Google Play!
Subscribe, listen, and review.

Eyes up, Guardian!
Time to give up the Ghost.
Thanks for listening. 

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Subscribe: Android | RSS

A Preview of the European Dead Zone

Let’s just call this “Video Week” for Happy Hour from the Tower as we have the new trailer, a new video podcast, and now this:

We meet a new NPC — EDZ Scout Devrim Kay — appearing to send Guardians out to discover lore, explore lost sectors, and head out on a variety of Earthbound quests. Watch this preview for an extended look at what was once a map in the Crucible, now revealing its mysteries beyond PvP.

Watch this preview and share your own thoughts and breakdowns in the Comments thread!

Is it September 6 yet?!

Episode #016: Gameplay Review with Tee Morris

We’re continuing our celebration of the Destiny 2 Beta and the upcoming release of Destiny 2 on September 6 with another video episode featuring gameplay breakdown.

This time, Tee takes you into the Crucible’s Control, a mode of Player v Player (PvP) where two teams battle for control of three designated zones on a map. This breakdown also doubles as side-by-side comparison between Destiny and the upcoming Destiny 2.

Want to see more gameplay from us? Let us know what you think at 703.791.1701 (reachable through WhatsApp) or podcast (at) happyhourfromthetower (dot) com. We’d love to hear from you!

Remember to leave us a comment or questions
for the show at 703.791.1701, or here at the blog.
We’ll talk about it!

And remember, you can find the show
on iTunes, Stitcher, and Google Play!
Subscribe, listen, and review.

Eyes up, Guardian!
Time to give up the Ghost.
Thanks for listening. 

 

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Subscribe: Android | RSS

Episode #015: An Interview with 3vil_Aura!

With the time closing in on the release of Destiny 2, the Guardians have decided since we’re on a roll with the weekly shows, we will continue this special once-a-week drop right up to Release Date. Then, once Destiny 2 is up and running, we’ll switch back to the fortnightly schedule.

The ramp-up to the new game and release date will include not only a video episode with Brandon and Tee, but interviews with other Guardians we like. And here’s one such Guardian, 3vil_Aura. Streaming from the Philadelphia area, Aura can be found on Twitch, tearing up the Crucible and entertaining viewers from all around the world.

If you got questions for Aura about Twitch, Destiny, Destiny 2, or pitbulls, reach out to him through us to us at 703.791.1701 or podcast (at) happyhourfromthetower (dot) com. We’d love to hear from you!

00:00 — Episode #015: An Interview with 3vil_Aura!

  • Welcome to the show their very first interview!
  • When you say “I’ve been watching you on Twitch…” there’s no real un-creepy way to say that.
  • How do you make an interview happen? Well…
  • Welcome to Aura’s Twitch stream, The Pit, where the music mix is a lot of things, but “safe” isn’t one of them.
    • Find Aura on Discord, and offer up your music suggestions…
    • …but don’t expect Aura to get to that suggestion straight away.
  • Along with Destiny and seriously kick-ass music, what else can you expect to see on The Pit?
    • Overwatch
    • Different flavors of Call of Duty
    • Destiny 2 (coming soon)
    • …and, of course, Layla. Who is Layla, you ask?
  • And, six minutes in, we hop off the rails…
  • NO SOUP FOR YOU!
  • What brought Aura to Destiny?
  • Brandon, are you a little nervous? Hang in there, bro!
  • What are classes best suited to the Crucible?
    • How do you engage in The Crucible?
    • How combat style matters in class and subclass
  • Why Aura focuses his Destiny stream on PvP and the Crucible, primarily
    • Time constraints
    • The “replay-bility” of a Crucible match compared to Strikes and Story missions
    • The entertainment factor
  • How you get to run with Aura on The Crucible?
  • Aura’s thoughts on what Bungie has in store for us in Destiny 2
    • A deep-dive into Game Mode Specific Maps
    • Aura stuck with PvP exclusively during the Beta. Here’s why.
    • The value of Supers in Destiny
  • Wait, it’s already been fifteen minutes?!

13:34 — This Kaiju Life

14:04 — Episode #015: An Interview with 3vil_Aura! (Part Two)

  • Trying to get Nick and Brandon to behave in-studio? A lot harder than you think.
  • More on Destiny 2…
    • No, Tee didn’t know that Nick wanted to ask about the 4v4 dynamic because he kept his questions all to himself. THAT’S WHY WE HAVE SHOW PREP, KELLY!!!
    • From Aura, in a nutshell: “I never had to struggle to find a gunfight.”
    • The difference between engagement in Control and engagement in Countdown
    • The new RADAR needs work.
  • Stepping away from Destiny…
    • Sitting back and letting the bassists rap a bit.
    • Nick does not Twitch. Here’s why.
    • Twitch Chat Management 101
  • Aura’s Passion Project: Villa Lobos Rescue Center
    • Yes, the same Villa Lobos from Pitbulls & Parolees
    • How Aura uses Twitch to sponsor and raise money for Villa Lobos
    • Other charity events Aura has participated in, including GuardianCon.
  • Aura’s GuardianCon 2017 report
  • We don’t really want this to end, but…
    • Where to find Aura…
    • Tee’s new at-work catch phrase, inspired by Aura
  • Where to send your feedback
    • Voicemail/WhatsApp — 703.791.1701 
    • Email — podcast (at) happyhourfromthetower (dot) com
    • Remember to leave us a review on iTunes!
  • Where to find us online…

Remember to leave us a comment or questions
for the show at 703.791.1701, or here at the blog.
We’ll talk about it!

And remember, you can find the show on iTunes, Stitcher, and Google Play!
Subscribe, listen, and review.

Eyes up, Guardian!
Time to give up the Ghost.
Thanks for listening. 

 

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Subscribe: Android | RSS

Episode #014 — All About the Beta! (Part Three: The Inverted Spire and Closing Thoughts)

With thirty days to go before the release of the final game, here you go, Guardians — the third and final installment of Happy Hour from the Tower’s in-depth look at the Destiny 2 Beta! We may be a little slaphappy at this point (when are we not?) but we do manage to stay on topic, and that point is the Inverted Spire Strike. Maybe not a full-on strike as we are used to, but definitely a preview of what is to come.

But now it’s your turn, Guardians! What are your thoughts on Destiny 2? What do you think needs work? Talk to us at 703.791.1701 (reachable through WhatsApp now) or podcast (at) happyhourfromthetower (dot) com. We’d love to hear from you!

00:00 — Introduction 

  • Tee’s new favorite drop-in…
  • Ghaul accomplishes more in one quote than all of the Decepticons of Michael Bay’s Transformers films.
  • The Destiny/WWE Connection

03:25 — Episode #014: All About the Beta! (Part Three — The Inverted Spire and Closing Thoughts)

  • Talking about the Strike
    • Except for Nick who’s learning all about Twitter on account of his new twitter pal, #BlondeSolo…
    • Hey, wait — we mentioned Nathan Fillion! Hashtag it!
    • Say “Hi!” to the Vex.
  • If you’re new to Vex, you will not like them.
  • The Pacing of Inverted Spire: Pretty Quick…until the Boss Fight.
    • Ron found the Raid fast paced, but not necessarily difficult.
    • No checkpoints during the Boss Fight.
    • Where’s the Power Ammo?!
    • An added complication: The Boss is not the only issue in the Inverted Spire…
  • And Nick makes a correlation between Destiny and Strip Clubs. No, we didn’t see this coming.

12:01 — GameStop of Innovation Center (Manassas, Virginia)

12:42  —Episode #014: All About the Beta! (Part Three — The Inverted Spire and Closing Thoughts)

  • What a ride with this Beta!
  • Did you know there was a rocket launcher under a waterfall?
  • Ron’s wish for Destiny 2 and those ammo drops.
  • Anyone pay a visit to the Farm?
    • Ron and Tee enjoy a go with Nick on the Titan’s new sitting animation.
    • Tee’s thoughts on the Farm: Eh.
    • Speculation, speculation, speculation…
    • …especially the creepy, old basement.
  • Tee’s concern about the Farm: Walkers.
  • Nick did some research on the Beta’s Easter Eggs. How many did you see?
    • The Lost Sector connected to the Vault of Glass
    • Paul McCartney’s song is playing ominously in the background
    • #BlondeSolo left behind her stash of hooch for you.
    • Did you revive Zavala?
    • A computer monitor, covered in Post-It Notes
    • One weapons rack is nothing but Khvostovs (your first weapon in Destiny)
    • Shaxx is wielding the Raze Lighter.
    • A glimpse of Shaxx’s trophy room
    • This ominous moment…
    • RIP the Energy Ball!
    • Did you catch any we miss?
  • Now that we are done with the Beta, now what?
  • The Farm and other odd glitches throughout…
  • Are we going back to the original Destiny? Well, duh!
  • Any reason you would want to go back to Destiny after Destiny 2 launches?
  • Brandon’s wish for Destiny 2: Relivable Ghost Memories
  • Guardians, what did  you think of Destiny 2?
    • Voicemail/WhatsApp — 703.791.1701 
    • Email — podcast (at) happyhourfromthetower (dot) com
  • Remember to leave us a review on iTunes!
  • Where to find us online…

Remember to leave us a comment or questions
for the show at 703.791.1701, or here at the blog.
We’ll talk about it!

And remember, you can find the show on iTunes, Stitcher, and Google Play!
Subscribe, listen, and review.

Eyes up, Guardian!
Time to give up the Ghost.
Thanks for listening. 

 

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Subscribe: Android | RSS

Eris Morn Lives

Shackleshotgun is not your average cosplayer. In fact, she considers herself more of a make-up artist, and if you see her feed on Twitch (coming in all the way from Finland) you’ll see why. She’s got a signature look when it comes to make-up, and it’s a real art.

But on this cosplay, the Finnish streamer knocks it out of the park…

 

Shackleshotgun took on an undertaking with a make-up design/cosplay of Eris Morn. It was a little shocking to see the overturned urn in the “Homecoming” mission…

…but here we have proof that Eris Morn did, in fact, survive the Red Legion attack on Earth.

Okay, maybe not that, but we do have this INCREDIBLE cosplay from Shackle. Perhaps the neatest trivia about this project was that she needed only three LEDs to create the haunting thee-eyed look of Eris Morn. However, Shackle misread the Amazon quantity order. She now has sixty of these lights.

So, what’s next? The glowing armor you wear in Horizon Zero Dawn? We can only hope.

To see more of Shackle’s work and to watch her kill it in Destiny, hop on to Twitch at 4PM EST-USA every day (except Sundays) where she streams  Destiny, Starbound, Mass Effect, and other games set in far-off future worlds. And hosts a cosplay stream every 100 followers, so go on and give her channel some love.

Well done, Shackleshotgun, and thanks for sharing this incredible project!

Episode #013 — All About the Beta! (Part Two: The Crucible)

Welcome – welcome – welcome to Part 2 of our special in-depth look at the Destiny 2 Beta which concluded just last week! Hard to believe, but yep, a week ago we were getting a look at what’s coming in September. So to celebrate, we are changing up our show schedule for the time being and going weekly with a special deep dive into the Beta.

This week, your Guardians (except for Nick who is preoccupied with Twitter now) are talking about what they liked — and what they didn’t like — in The Crucible. We’re taking about the new 4v4 approach as well as the new “Countdown” Elimination game.

Sound off, Guardians! What are your thoughts on the new Crucible? What do you think needs work? Talk to us at 703.791.1701 (reachable through WhatsApp now) or podcast (at) happyhourfromthetower (dot) com. We’d love to hear from you!

00:00 — Introduction 

  • We’re back for more!
    • Tee throws Nova Bombs when he gets grumpy.
    • Nick, dammit, would you put down your Twitter?
    • Coach V. Ghaul: Who would walk away?
  • Coach says go here to see how multi-lingual Ghaul is!
  • What happens when the Kellys and Tee get slap-happy in Destiny.

02:51 — Episode #013: All About the Beta! (Part Two — The Crucible)

  • We’re switching gears from the first show to focus on The Crucible.
    • Nick’s out. Busy on Twitter.
    • Now Brandon no longer has to sing a drop-in.
    • Inappropriate movie quoting at work with Nick Kelly
  • Two Flavors of The Crucible
    • Control
    • Countdown (Competitive)
  • The discussion over the controversial 4 v 4 Crucible
    • Ron’s got strong opposition to it.
    • Parallels with Destiny 2’s new Crucible and the H1Z1 eSports Competition Tee watched.
    • Aaaaaand Tee goes off and says something WAY OUT OF BOUNDS….
    • Okay, we’ve jumped the rails here…
  • Quick shout-out from Spartan Jenzii about Destiny 2
  • Is there really a problem with team shooting in The Crucible?
  • Brandon’s review of Countdown
  • But Tee is digging the new approach. It should be about team play, right?
    • What happens when Hunters gather together in Control…
    • Compelling people to play as a team. A good thing? Or no?
    • There is irony in that the Endless Vale is actually quite tiny.
    • Will there be a place for the solo player in PvP?
  • And the Nick/Courtenay/#BlondeSolo sage continues…

11:58 — GameStop of Innovation Center (Manassas, Virginia)

12:38  —Episode #013: All About the Beta! (Part Two — The Crucible)

  • So Nick is done with The Crucible…but not with Twitter…
  • Thank you, Coach, for getting us back on track!
    • Silence does not work well in podcasting, guys!
    • Changes in what is considered “Power” weapons
    • Protect Your Cleric!
  • Elitism? We have it here, sure…
  • The style of Power Ammo drops Tee digs that in the new “Countdown” game.
  • How we review Countdown
    • There are pluses…and minuses.
    • Similarities and differences between Countdown and Trials.
  • A detour on Ghost Hunting and Age of Triumph challenges…
  • The different approach to Countdown as opposed to Control
  • Guardians that care only about K/D and how that comes into play with 4v4 PvP
  • Guardians, what do you think of the new rules of The Crucible?
    • Voicemail/WhatsApp — 703.791.1701 
    • Email — podcast (at) happyhourfromthetower (dot) com
  • Remember to leave us a review on iTunes!
  • Where to find us online…

Remember to leave us a comment or questions
for the show at 703.791.1701, or here at the blog.
We’ll talk about it!

And remember, you can find the show on iTunes, Stitcher, and Google Play!
Subscribe, listen, and review.

Eyes up, Guardian!
Time to give up the Ghost.
Thanks for listening. 

 

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Episode #012: All About the Beta! (Part One — “Homecoming”)

Wasn’t that Destiny 2 Beta awesome?!

Okay, okay, okay, maybe not all Guardians would agree that the Beta was perfect, and even Nick, Brandon, Tee, and Ron would admit there were flaws.

It is a Beta, though.

Fresh from the experience, your Guardians are talking about what they liked — and what they didn’t like — in this week of awesome from Bungie. Instead of dropping all our thoughts in one massive show, we’ve got word from the Vanguards to run on a weekly schedule in order to take our time and enjoy our look at this incredible sneak peek at what’s coming on September 6th!

Sound off, Guardians! What were your favorite parts of the Destiny 2 Beta? What do you think needs work? Talk to us at 703.791.1701 (reachable through WhatsApp now) or podcast (at) happyhourfromthetower (dot) com. We’d love to hear from you!

00:00 — Introduction 

  • Right — Let’s get some serious SEO accomplished here…
    • No, Coach. Don’t spoil the Punch Line!
    • The fans love Nathan Fillion!
    • Welcome to the Nathan Fillion Is Awesome! podcast. And did we mention that we love Nathan Fillion? We sure do!!!
  • Ron, you want to drive?
  • Tee Morris: Rant the First
  • We go hot with the mics…and NOW Nick wants to re-decorate!
  • Tee Morris: Rant the Second

02:45 — Episode #12: All About the Beta (Part One — “Homecoming”)

  • Tee can’t quite get the reveal of the Farm as a great way to end a Beta
  • There were some issues reminiscent of Destiny: Year One
    • Not this again? (No, thankfully…)
    • Problems logging on…
    • …for everyone except, Tee. Tee was patient. (For once.)
    • “Hey, Twitch Guy…I gotta go play! Thanks!”
  • Yeah, Tee took a whole day off from work for this. No regrets.
  • Nick, on the other hand, had bigger issues.
  • Tee streamed his experience! Take a look here at archived Twitch streams.
  • Brandon is our resident Beta expert, so we want to know how the Destiny 2 Beta compared to other Betas he played.
  • Nick doubles down over Ghaul: Ghaul’s a jackass!
  • Some other problems in the Beta
    • Cooldown times were ridiculous…but not if you ask Coach who has a different perspective on this.
    • The new abilities are very cool, provided you remember you have them.
    • Like it or not, this is part of “starting over” in Destiny 2.
    • Transitioning with the mechanics is a little tricky.
    • All weapons felt nerfed. Especially when Nick compares ballistic damage to punching aliens in the face.
  • Sadly though, Tee is still shooting like a stormtrooper.
  • Now that we’ve seen her fly, Nick has a new nickname for Amanda Holliday: #BlondeSolo

15:21 — GameStop of Innovation Center (Manassas, Virginia)

16:03  —Episode #12: All About the Beta (Part One — “Homecoming”)

  • How could I have startled Coach when he speaks to me this way in the Crucible?!
  • And Nick watches us nerd out…
  • So who else had all the Feelz when you reached out for your Ghost?
  • Let’s talk about “Homecoming”…
    Not this one…although it is a REALLY good movie!
  • The opening mission is extremely well-directed
    • Beautiful cinematography
    • More storytelling in this mission than in all in Year One of Destiny
    • DAT SCORE!!!
  • Dr. Stacia Kelly has a tough time walking through the Tower now
  • Tee has a theory about Sweeperbot.
  • Security Sentries seen everywhere in “Homecoming” and at The Farm.
  • So much to see walking through what remains of the Tower…
    • The tipped-over urn of Eris Morn
    • Did you see Shaxx’s Trophy Room?
    • The only banners still flying in the hangar: The Future War Cult
  • There’s too much for one show, so expect more installments just about the Beta experience.
  • Okay, let’s talk about Gary…
    • Nick still thinks he’s a jackass.
    • When Ghaul makes an entrance, nothing else matters. It’s a terrific villain for a terrific game.
    • Ghaul returns fear to the game.

25:05  — Guardian Feedback

  • All the way from the Great White north, Steve Saylor a/k/a The Blind Gamer, taking his first crack at Destiny with the Destiny 2 Beta!
    • Oh, Steve…what’s waiting for you…
    • Totally new to Destiny? Start with Destiny 2, or go back to the original?
  • Another voicemail, this one from Jonathan Jett-Parmer, going deep into the mechanics. AND SOME SERIOUS “COUNTDOWN” LOVE!
    • What is it with the hate for the Arcstrider? (I love it.)
    • Tee and Brandon go back and forth about the Sentinel’s super…
    • …and we discuss more mechanics that we should have a place to practice, but we didn’t have it.
    • Destiny 2 Beta. Not really for the lone wolf?
    • The purpose of a Beta: A Bug Hunt
  • Twitter feedback from Episode #011
    • A simple message…
    • …from an unexpected listener: #BlondeSolo herself, Courtenay Taylor
    • This is what happens when no one else but Tee checks the podcast’s Twitter account!
    • Nick may need a moment…
    • An appeal to #BlondeSolo to come on the show.
    • Why didn’t Shohreh Aghdashloo tweet Tee? Nick knows.
  • What did you think of the Beta? Let us know at…
    • Voicemail/WhatsApp — 703.791.1701 (And Brandon’s rolling his eyes about the “WhatsApp” connection. Whatev’s.)
    • Email — podcast (at) happyhourfromthetower (dot) com
  • Where to find us online…

Remember to leave us a comment or questions
for the show at 703.791.1701, or here at the blog.
We’ll talk about it!

And remember, you can find the show on iTunes, Stitcher, and Google Play!
Subscribe, listen, and review.

Eyes up, Guardian!
Time to give up the Ghost.
Thanks for listening. 

 

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Episode #011: Who’s Who Behind The Cast of Destiny

 

You getting ready for the Destiny 2 Beta to drop? Well, while you wait, how about enjoying this latest episode with all the Guardians — Nick, Brandon, Tee, and Ron — in the studio, talking about the incredible voice talent that is featured in this game. You may think you know Destiny, but do you know who voices your favorite characters? We do. (Thanks, IMDb!)

Sound off, Guardians! Who’s your favorite voice actor in Destiny and why? Talk to us at 703.791.1701 (reachable through WhatsApp now) or podcast (at) happyhourfromthetower (dot) com. We’d love to hear from you!

00:00 — Episode #11: Who’s Who Behind the Cast of Destiny

  • Let’s talk about the amazing voice talent…
    • In this podcast? Why not!
    • No-no-no, in Destiny. Oh. okay, sure…
  • Jumpin’ right in…
  • Voicing the Vanguard
  • Lord Shaxx we know from The Crucible, but in Lennie James’ spare time…
  • Debating over The Ghost
  • Taking a break on account of the perkiness…

14:36 — Monster Kid Radio

15:38 —Episode #11: Who’s Who Behind the Cast of Destiny (Part Two)

  • Maybe you don’t Know James Remar by name, but listen to the voice of Executor Hideo of the Ne wMonarchy and you might recognize him from…
    • Dexter
    • The Legend of Korra
    • Sex and the City
    • …and all the way back to 48 Hours and The Warriors.
    • This guy’s got the chops!
  • Also with the impressive resume — Bill Nighy. You know him as The Speaker, but you might also know him from…
    • The Underworld Series
    • The Pirates of the Caribbean series
    • Shaun of the Dead
    • The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy
  • Tee discovers Claudia Black was in the cast, and he didn’t know that!
  • More Walking Dead alumni in Destiny as well…
  • And now…our Voice Crushes in Destiny.
  • Nick offers up a chance for the Guardians to hold a Dream Casting in Destiny 2…
    • Kevin Spacey
    • T.J. Storm
    • Leonard Nimoy (posthumously)
    • T.J Miller
    • Stephen Amell
  • Who would you like to hear contributing their voice to the Destinyverse? Let us know at…
    • Voicemail/WhatsApp — 703.791.1701 (And Brandon’s rolling his eyes about the “WhatsApp” connection. Whatev’s.)
    • Email — podcast (at) happyhourfromthetower (dot) com
  • Where to find us online…

Remember to leave us a comment or questions
for the show at 703.791.1701, or here at the blog.
We’ll talk about it!

And remember, you can find the show on iTunes, Stitcher, and Google Play!
Subscribe, listen, and review.

Eyes up, Guardian!
Time to give up the Ghost.
Thanks for listening. 

 

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Episode #010: Gameplay Review with Tee Morris

We’ve broken into double digits with this episode, and we wanted to do something different. So Tee is putting himself out there with his own gameplay, breaking down what went right and what wrong during his first crack at Wrath of the Machine.

What did you think of this, Guardians? Want to see more gameplay from us? Let us know what you think at 703.791.1701 (reachable through WhatsApp) or podcast (at) happyhourfromthetower (dot) com. We’d love to hear from you!

Remember to leave us a comment or questions
for the show at 703.791.1701, or here at the blog.
We’ll talk about it!

And remember, you can find the show
on iTunes, Stitcher, and Google Play!
Subscribe, listen, and review.

Eyes up, Guardian!
Time to give up the Ghost.
Thanks for listening. 

 

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Subscribe: Android | RSS

For the Little Lights…

GuardianCon 2017 is coming to Tampa, Florida, running from June 30-July 1, but things have already kicked off with a special charity drive, happening right now on Twitch.tv.

The goal is to raise $1,000,000 for St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital and we want to do our part. Go to http://bit.ly/HHFTT-GC2017 and make your donation today. Every little bit — one dollar, five dollars, or digging deeper for more — will make a difference.

And for Happy hour from the Tower listeners, go on and make a donation. In the “Comments” field, write “From the listeners of Happy Hour from the Tower, for the Little Lights” and then send us a screen shot. We will enter your name in a drawing for something from our Vault of Geeky Goodies.

Make your donation before June 29 as that is when this GuardianCon fund raiser comes to a close. So eyes up, Guardians. Time to give for the Little Lights out there. Give to GuardianCon today.

 

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Episode #009: Nick’s Master Plan

 

Our episode begins with the presentation of a PS4 to Nick Kelly, He’s now able to play alongside Brandon, Tee, and Ron…but not before he gets his numbers up to snuff.

So…Nick’s got a blank canvas in front of him. What now?

Sound off, Guardians! Do you spark it in Destiny or do you troll? Talk to us at 703.791.1701 (reachable through WhatsApp) or podcast (at) happyhourfromthetower (dot) com. We’d love to hear from you!

00:00 — Introduction

  • Tee is getting his Heath Ledger on…
  • Ron reminds Nick of Shepherd Book from Firefly…and you know, he’s got a point.
  • When Ron gives advice in game, it’s tough love.
  • Shout out to +2 Charisma who made us these wicked-cool glasses for our podcast!
  • And suddenly we get plug heavy…

3:52 — Nick’s Master Plan

  • If you ever wondered what makes for bad audio…
  • Tee presents Nick with a non-gift because, well, Nick’s purchased Tee’s old PS4.
  • Does anyone need a LAN Cable? How about a toe?
  • Nick’s beginning a band new adventure on his household’s second PS4.
  • Now, a breakdown on where to find us all…
  • Ron puts down an ultimatum about The Crucible.
  • Music tangent, featuring composer Blake Neely on Twitter
  • The question to Nick: Are you going to spark it, or are you going to troll it?
  • One advantage of trolling to 40: Experiencing the Cinematics. Again.
  • Making a connection that takes Tee completely off-guard…

13:43 — Headshots

15:19 — Nick’s Master Plan (Part Two)

  • Coach makes everybody happy.
  • Ron’s definition of trolling in Destiny…and it’s eeeeeevil.
  • Other oddities of Destiny…
  • Anyone need a LAN cable?
  • Another way Nick can organically troll: His Grimoire.
  • And there goes Tee, breaking the Fourth Wall.
  • Advantages of working through levels, and what Nick can’t do presently (a/k/a pining for Archon’s Forge).
  • Waxing nostalgic. It’s what you do…
  • Quick shout out to Subifan05 who represented Guardians with respect at AwesomeCon!
  • Share with us your stories on how you decide to start over…
    • Voicemail — 703.791.1701
    • Email — podcast (at) happyhourfromthetower (dot) com
  • Where to find us online…

Remember to leave us a comment or questions
for the show at 703.791.1701, or here at the blog.
We’ll talk about it!

And remember, you can find the show on iTunes, Stitcher, and Google Play!
Subscribe, listen, and review.

Eyes up, Guardian!
Time to give up the Ghost.
Thanks for listening. 

 

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Episode #008: Play Smart. Play Efficiently.

 

It’s been a challenge recording this episode, but third time’s the charm! Ron had so much fun in studio with us that he decided to come back for more, but in this episode we talk about playing efficiently. What exactly does that entail, and when is it a good time to stay away from your comfort zones?

Sound off, Guardians! How do you play Destiny and where do your preferences lie? Auto? Pulse? Scout? Talk to us at 703.791.1701 (reachable through WhatsApp) or podcast (at) happyhourfromthetower (dot) com. We’d love to hear from you!

00:00 — Introduction

  • Man, Chief Wigam 49 and Halo Is My Bitch 12 are throwing serious gremlins in the mix!
  • Ron decides to pick apart a line from The Empire Strikes Back…
  • …and the show is already off the rails.
  • Brandon’s take on Friday the 13th: The Game.
    • Worth the wait!
    • Disturbing chats in hardware stores after playing Jason Voorhees…
    • Wait, this is not the podcast for that game. This is!
  • Destiny accomplishments for the week
    • Some of us got together with Michi. Some of us…
    • Damn social life.
    • Takeaways from the week’s Nightfall Strike
    • No, Tee…that’s not a Troll. That’s…oh, never mind…

7:09 — Play Smart. Play Efficiently

  • Brandon brings up a painful memory on why Tee wasn’t even able to play Destiny inefficiently on Day One…
  • A Titan’s mantra
  • Tee is convinced that certain weapons go with classes. Tee’s delusional.
  • #FloofingOff
  • However, some classes and races “fit” better together.
  • Ron’s Kryptonite: Sniper Rifles.
  • Lessons learned in the Challenge of Elders
    • Tee surprises himself with headshots.
    • Brandon wants a better indication of a precision kill…and we are back in Jason territory…
    • #Not aStormtrooper

12:47 — The Nerd Out App

13:58 — Play Smart. Play Efficiently. (Part Two)

  • Bless you, Brandon.
  • Ron dealt Tee during a loot review a Boot to the Head.
    • And Ron and Nick rub salt into Tee’s 400 Light wound.
    • A look into a new perspective on how to level up.
    • Pew-pew-pew-pew-pew…
    • Ron’s Tough Love. We all feel it when we run with him.
  • No, Tee…Ether Seeds, not Exot—oh, never mind.
  • The Plight of a “Part Time” Player…
  • Tee breaks the Fourth Wall, derails the episode, and turns it into a segue.

21:11 — Guardian Transmissions

  • Tee started up a chat with Spartan Jenzii after seeing a work-in-progress of hers appear on the Destiny Facebook Community.
  • Jenzii’s jam is EPIC cosplay builds.
  • Her current work: Aksis from Tee’s favorite raid, Wrath of the Machine!
  • Spartan Jenzii shares her story of her Aksis, Archon Prime build on the HHFTT Blog…
  • Sharing some Cosplay Melee love.
  • Wrapping-up and winding-down the episode…
    • AwesomeCon
    • Escape Velocity 2017
    • BlerDCon
  • We can take our act on the road, so if you want HHFTT at your event, reach out to us!
    • Voicemail — 703.791.1701
    • Email — podcast (at) happyhourfromthetower (dot) com
  • Where to find us online…
    • All these different locations…some of which ask for reviews, and we would appreciate that.
    • Facebook
    • Twitter
    • Pinterest (No, really, Pinterest!)
  • Ron, you want to take that call?

Remember to leave us a comment or questions
for the show at 703.791.1701, or here at the blog.
We’ll talk about it!

And remember, you can find the show on iTunes, Stitcher, and Google Play!
Subscribe, listen, and review.

Eyes up, Guardian!
Time to give up the Ghost.
Thanks for listening. 

 

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Subscribe: Android | RSS

Wrath of the Cosplayer: Spartan Jenzii Creates Aksis

As you may have heard on our last podcast, I am absolutely enamored if not slightly obsessed with the last of the raids from Destiny: Wrath of the Machine. The Rise of Iron expansion ramped up everything in this far-off future of our world, and its accompanying raid does not disappoint. Throughout the epic cyberpunk event is Aksis, the Big Boss behind the Devil Splicers. This transformed Fallen can be best described in its own words…

“We are they who created themselves out of themselves and died in the creation. No longer merely the god in the machine, but the machine in the god. ~consume enhance replicate~ Here we rise, made equal at last to that which we worship. ~consume enhance replicate~”
When it comes to monsters, Archon Prime ranks alongside the Alien Queen as one of the most terrifying from science fiction. It would take a Guardian without fear to face such a boss, let alone try to cosplay it.
Meet Spartan Jenzii, a Guardian and cosplayer without fear.
With her experience in creating the fantastic, Spartan Jenzii (Jennifer) knew the supreme leader of the Splicers would be an incredible undertaking. She brings her story behind the cosplay to HHFTT…
“Aksis has to be one of my favorite characters in Destiny, the very first time I encountered him was love at first sight and that moment I knew that was going to be my next cosplay. I’ve been playing Destiny since Beta and I can’t wait for Destiny 2.“

“Aksis took me around 5 months to build. It was the most challenging cosplay I’ve ever encountered, especially when considering the size of the build, my height (5’2″), and how it will be put together. My only references were taking screenshots while playing the raid (which was difficult since I had to keep moving!) and art from the Grimoire and fans. My Aksis, Archon Prime Build, is made out of mainly EVA foam, Modelling Foam, fabrics, PVC, all painted with spray paints and primers. I use Revit to draw the templates and patterns to my size. Aksis had so much detail but I was to find I could scale it to my height.”

“My biggest challenges were the legs and tail, as they were the biggest part of the costume. I had to figure out a way to balance the legs without collapsing or falling, so I used little wheels and placed metal rods in between to separate them so they wouldn’t fall. The tail was really heavy, so I used metal profiles and brackets to prevent it from falling. It does move but it will prevent it from falling. Overall I am so excited that I took on Aksis. The costume is done,  all made by me including some of the lights in Aksis’ head and legs.”

If you find yourself in Australia, Spartan Jenzii will be presenting her Aksis, Archon Prime at Supanova this June! Take pictures, and tell Jenzii the HHFTT crew said “G’day, Guardian!”

Congratulations, Jennifer. This is cosplay on an epic scale!

 

Welcome to the Cosmodrome.

There’s an old saying about art imitating life. When it comes to Destiny, though, it’s a little creepy to think that’s true as we’re playing in a post-apocalyptic world.

But WIRED Magazine has the evidence: The Cosmodrome is real.

Photographer Danila Tkachenko created Restricted Areas, a visual essay of  “secret” cities that hosted the former Soviet Union’s most sensitive military and scientific programs. Many of these monuments to an age gone by are now abandoned and falling into ruin.

Read the article here, and take a tour of our present-day Cosmodrome. Keep an eye out for Fallen, Guardian.

Funko Pops FINALLY Launch a Destiny Line!

You may not have known this about Tee, but he’s got a thing about Funko Pops. However, he assures everyone that he can stop…

…at any time.

But that time will not be in August when Funko releases their new Destiny Pop!s Collection.

From the Funko blog:

You can now add your favorite Guardians Cayde-6,
Ikora and Zavala to your Pop! vinyl collection.

In addition, the antagonist Oryx.

Collect them all this Summer!

Oh, Tee will. Tee most assuredly will…

 

Episode #007: The Reveal of Destiny 2 and Tee’s Raid Revelations

Brace yourselves! This episode of Happy Hour from the Tower: A Destiny Podcast is YOUGE! BIGLY! SUPER-SIZED FOR YOUR PLEASURE!

Let’s just be honest here: We had a lot to say about that Twitch stream from Bungie!

We’re breaking down the big reveal from May 18 with Special Guardian Guest Ron Dauphin jumping in on the conversation.

And…wait…Tee’s got a reveal of his own? And it’s got something to do with the Listener Feedback? What’s he revealing to his fellow Fireteam mates?

Enjoy this double-sized engram, encoded with all sorts of thoughts, opinions, and feedback from Bungie’s big day! Share with us your own thoughts on the big changes, new storylines, and incredible surprises from Destiny 2 at 703.791.1701 or podcast (at) happyhourfromthetower (dot) com. We’d love to hear from you!

00:00 — Introduction

  • Big nod to the Red Legion!
  • Nick sharing his love for Amanda while Brandon gives his most serious of faces.
  • Check it out — ObiOrion is in studio!
  • Let’s talk about May 18, 2017…IT WAS NICK’S BIRTHDAY!!!
  • But we think something else was going on that day…

1:52 — The Reveal of Destiny 2 (Part One)

  • Bungie unveiled Destiny 2 on Twitch…and Guardians were pretty happy about it.
  • Piper watched me watch the gameplay…and she loved it.
  • How many times did you watch the gameplay?
  • Do you feel the tension between the classes?
  • Reactions to “Homecoming” from the collected crew…
  • Sweeperbot FTW!!!
  • These Guardians were taking notes!
    • Celebrating the Best of Cayde-6
    • New Special Abilities: The Sentinel, the Dawnblade, and the Arcstrider
    • More news from Mr Fruit’s Gaming Channel on surviving subclasses.
  • Representation matters, especially in Destiny!
  • What we’re digging from the opening cinematics…
  • What we want to see more of in Destiny 2…
  • What’s with the salt on Forums and Facebook Discussion Boards?
  • Tee gives good Lance Reddrick.

14:20 — Washington Metropolitan Gamers’s Symphony Orchestra on Twitch

15:01 — The Reveal of Destiny 2 (Part Two)

  • You were expecting this show to be a half an hour? This is the Destiny 2 reveal, thank you VERY much!
  • More about the Red Legion and their leader, Gary…
  • And ObiOrion brings the gravitas to Happy Hour from the Tower.
  • Where’s Eris Morn?
  • Speculating on what happens after the “Homecoming” mission…
  • If Orion had that armor, he would be wearing the new armor.
  • Does your power come from Experience or Light?
  • Tee needs to practice a bit at the jumping for Destiny 2…
  • Nick features the new maps coming in September
    • On Earth, we rendezvous at the European Dead Zone
    • On Nessus (Cayde-6’s hideout)
    • Saturn’s moon, Titan (Zavala’s hideout)
    • Jupiter’s Io (Ikora’s hideout)
    • …and getting from place to place has gotten a touch easier.
  • Destiny 2 introduces sidequests into the mix.
  • Tee’s theory as to why Guardians never had a map in Destiny 1.
  • Tee owns his inability to navigate current maps in game.
  • Changes in The Crucible
    • All matches are 4v4
    • Ron’s take on it: Destiny now compels players to work harder.
    • Coordination will be key
    • The H.U.D. is even more effective and dangerous…
  • We’re not going to let Nick slink away from the Crucible this go-round…
  • Nick covers changes in Social Matchmaking.
  • Bungie wants people to play in Fireteams.
  • And the Beta is coming….when?
  • Another break…but Nick gets in the last word.

31:14 —  The Phil Rossi Experience

32:24 — The Reveal of Destiny 2 (Part Three)

  • Nope…we’re not done. We’re NOT — DONE.
  • The new subclasses have some great abilities that encourage cooperative play.
  • Some Warlock love featured in the new Strike! (Love your Warlocks!)
  • Can we just take some time and enjoy the world designed for us?
  • Reflections on the Vault of Glass…
  • The debate between Dedicated and Peer-to-Peer Servers
    • No love for Division on this podcast, apparently…
    • Connections are a bit of a dice roll with Peer-to-Peer connections
    • Why would Bungie fix something that isn’t broken…for them?
  • Nick continues his descent into Destiny’s Grimlore
    • The backstory of SIVA
    • A Hardcore Destiny Guardian has collected all the cards and created bound volumes.
    • What happens when you go exploring in the Plaguelands…
    • Tee’s #DestinyGoals: Writing a tie-in novel.
  • Shout-out the THIS GUY in the audience…
    You, sir, are Legend!
  • Closing thoughts. Finally…
    • Tee draws a line in the sand. Truly, he does.
    • Some thoughts on the Defender subclass
    • Zavala’s moment in the opening cinematic
    • No, seriously, Ron wants to know where is Eris Morn?
  • One more segment to go…

46:48 — The Shared Desk

47:48 — Feedback & Tee’s Raid Revelations

  • Yikes! We’re still going!!!
  • #IMissMyDinklebot
  • Listener Email from TurtleSnake75…in Germany!
  • Listener Voicemail from our Fireteam’s own WikiReedia! (The one and only, Nobilis Reed.)
  • And now comes to the reveal as to how all this ties in with Tee’s surprise…but Nick steals the thunder momentarily with some lovely art for the studio!”
  • Tee’s big reveal: He got busy last week.
  • Mad love to ZGPhoto (Zac) and the Photobombers on Twitch!
  • Are you curious as to what Tee got up to? Well, guess what — this adventure was broadcast on Twitch for all to see.
  • Tee waited for the call from Team Leader ZG of “A good effort, but you’re done…” but nevertheless, the Photobombers persisted.
  • When Tee found his groove, he found it in Wrath of the Machine…but when he didn’t…
  • Then there were the directional challenges.
  • And in the end, we made it the final phase only to be outdone by Bungie.
  • Tee’s Revelations
    • Destiny’s Community rocks my world hard.
    • Zac and the Photobombers were patient, kind, and good guys—all of them.
    • Tee’s been playing Destiny all wrong.
      • He needs to master jumping.
      • “Wrong Way” needs to end. Now.
      • He’s got two months…and a standing invitation to return to the Wrath of the Machine Raid with ZGPhoto.
    • Another Takeaway: Watching the Raid is not the same as running the Raid.
    • Practice, practice, practice…
    • Thanks again, Zac.
  • Now it’s time to get practicing.
  • Remember, we want to hear from you…
    • Voicemail — 703.791.1701
    • Email — podcast (at) happyhourfromthetower (dot) com
  • We need to have Ron on more often…

Remember to leave us a comment or questions
for the show at 703.791.1701, or here at the blog.
We’ll talk about it!

And remember, you can find the show on iTunes, Stitcher, and Google Play!
Subscribe, listen, and review.

Eyes up, Guardian!
Time to give up the Ghost.
Thanks for listening. 

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Subscribe: Android | RSS

Episode #006: Baby’s First (Successful) Raid

If you’ve been tracking with us on Happy Hour from the Tower: A Destiny Podcast then you know that Brandon, Nick, and Tee have never been on a Raid.

Check that — never been on a successful Raid.

When Bungie revealed their new armor for the Age of Triumph, the guys knew they had to up their game, one Raid at a time; and recently, Tee and Brandon got a fireteam together and headed into the original (vanilla) edition of Vault of Glass.

Here’s how things went…

Share with us your own favorite (or least favorite) Raids at 703.791.1701 or podcast (at) happyhourfromthetower (dot) com. We’d love to share them with the Guardians on the show!

00:00 — Introduction

  • Nick has his own soundtrack. Did you know that?
  • Brandon kills Demigods for the fun of it.
  • If Orion is the foundation, then Brandon is the gravel.
  • #TankLife
  • #DieOmnigoulDie

3:15 — Baby’s First (Successful) Raid

  • Holy Cow — we completed a Raid! And yet Brandon’s salty about it…
  • Nick did not join Tee and Brandon on this Raid. Our team included…
    • WikiReedia (never completed a Raid)
    • TheTeeMonster (never completed a Raid)
    • Th3rmalw0lff (never completed a Raid)
    • Nitrolad (Veteran of Raids)
    • ObiOrion (Veteran of Raids)
    • ZoneMudKip (Veteran of Raids)
  • Heading into the Vault of Glass, we — looked — great!
  • The Vault of Glass with Nick Kelly as EmCee
    • Digging into the Grimlore about the Vault via the Destiny app…
    • Six Guardians total
    • Brandon’s first Raid, depicted with drop-in’s
    • Subclass Breakdown
    • Nobilis’ strategy, similar to OneActual’s on Twitch: Have a Defender on call.
  • A few words on Sherpas
    • What makes a bad Sherpa
    • What makes a good Sherpa
    • Shameless plug for Rev3
    • ObiOrion, ZoneMudkip, and Miss Anubis — ideal Sherpas
  • Brandon is jonesing for that AoT Vault of glass armour.
  • Tee faces a nasty jumping puzzle that eats away at his final nerve….
  • Why did we go with Vault of Glass?

15:27 — Nutty Bites

16:07 — Baby’s First (Successful) Raid: Part Two

  • Why did we go with Vault of Glass? (continued)
    • Nick will get to do a Raid…eventually.
  • Could we do this again at 390?
    • Well, maybe?
    • Tee wants a Light buffer before giving it a shot.
    • If Orion had that armor, he would be wearing the new armor.
  • So, how did we get along?
  • The Key to Raid Success: Communication and Coordination
    • Tee learned a lot when watching an H1Z1 Event.
    • On OneActual’s feed, one person is making the call.
    • Another #DestinyGoal: A chain of command.
  • Vault of Glass’ Boss Battle: Atheon
    • Just let Brandon do his thing…
  • Was the Raid worth it?
    • Did WikiReedia have somewhere else to be?
    • Enjoy the scenery…
    • Anyone else think the Vault looks like this?
    • The adrenaline crash is nuts!
  • What’s next?
    • Please avoid “easy” when describing these Raids…
    • Leaning towards Crota’s End…
  • What is your favorite Raid? LET US KNOW!
    • Voicemail — 703.791.1701
    • Email — podcast (at) happyhourfromthetower (dot) com
  • Brandon sounds so sad. Cheer him up, will you?

Remember to leave us a comment or questions
for the show at 703.791.1701, or here at the blog.
We’ll talk about it!

And remember, you can find the show on iTunes, Stitcher, and Google Play!
Subscribe, listen, and review.

Eyes up, Guardian!
Time to give up the Ghost.
Thanks for listening. 

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Android | RSS

Episode #005: How Do You Play Destiny?

It’s that kind of Tuesday where Happy Hour from the Tower: A Destiny Podcast is live! Brandon, Nick, and Tee are talking this episode about how we play Destiny. There are different approaches to the game, and everyone has a favorite way to play. In the second half of the show, they discuss ways they can improve their game.

Have a listen and feel free to share with us your own approaches to the Cosmodrome, the Dreadnaught, or the Plaguelands at 703.791.1701 or podcast (at) happyhourfromthetower (dot) com.

00:00 — Introduction

  • Tee is trying hard to make everybody feel good about the show in its infancy…
  • Carving out time for Destiny sucks when you adult on a regular basis.
  • Brandon inches closer and closer to 400 Light. (UPDATE: He made it Monday night.)
  • Who’s coming out on top? Cayde-6 or this guy?

3:30 — How Do You Play Destiny?

  • Nick sums up his style-of-play with the Titan succinctly. (#TankLife)
    • There are other classes out there for the Kellys, and their KinderGuardian is a Warlock
    • Nick’s Advice: Don’t play a Hunter like a Titan.
  • A quick visit from the Studio Cat. (One of them anyway…)
  • Where to find us on the PSN…
    • Nick Kelly — TBA
    • Brandon Kelly — Th3rmalw0lff
    • Tee Morris — TheTeeMonster
    • Nick and Tee are making Brandon squirm…
    • How does Brandon play?
      • One word — He’s a Baller.
      • Crucible Doubles is Brandon’s jam.
    • Nick likes to farm the Forge.
    • “Titan no jump good.”
    • Why Brandon prefers Nightstalker over Gunslinger
  • Tee’s approach to Destiny
    • Thanks to Nick, Tee’s working up the Defender with his Kinderguardian Titan.
    • Tee’s more confident with the Hunter in the Crucible, but he’s got mad-love for his Warlock.
    • Brandon hates the Warlock melee…especially when he’s on the other side of it.
    • Before anyone says it, yes, Tee knows the Telesto is a FUSION Rifle. He was buzzing hard off the Rev3.
  • Thanks, Clark Gregg.

15:07 — The Phil Rossi Experience

16:20 — How Can We Be Better Guardians?

  • We love this game…but what can we do better?
  • Tee volunteers as Tribute
    • When the E becomes a P, Tee’s aim makes him ready for the Imperial Armed Forces.
    • And here comes the hump-busting…
    • Tee’s other problem: He missed his calling and should have played hockey..like Nick.
    • The Rage isn’t directed at other players. It’s all on me.
  • Sebastian (the Cat) returns, and loves on the plug bell.
  • Tee got an awakening about “aggressive styles” of playing when watching the H1Z1 Event.
  • What makes Tee unravel: The voices in his head(set).
  • Brandon’s Room for Improvement
    • Channeling an Inner Leroy…
    • Brandon hates Pulse Rifles and Shotguns.
    • SIDENOTE: Tee’s a sword guy.
  • Nick looks at where he can improve.
    • “Titan no jump good.”
    • Patience is a virtue….and a measure for how much Heavy Ammo synthesis you have.
    • Can Nick get over those jump puzzles? He’s confident.
    • #DestinyGoals 
  • How do you play Destiny?
    • Voicemail — 703.791.1701
    • Email — podcast (at) happyhourfromthetower (dot) com

Remember to leave us a comment or questions
for the show at 703.791.1701, or here at the blog.
We’ll talk about it!

And remember, you can find the show on iTunes, Stitcher, and Google Play!
Subscribe, listen, and review.

Eyes up, Guardian!
Time to give up the Ghost.
Thanks for listening. 

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Android | RSS