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altariaking October 17th, 2010 7:42 AM

RHN 2010
 
RHN 2010

The ROM Hacking Newsletter

Week 1; 2010

Introduction


Hi guys! Well, after seeing the old rom hacking newsletter, and after seeing the rom hacking sections go from a mountain of posts everyday, to seven or eight posts a day, I thought I would start a new one. I've been busy this week trying to get this sorted out, and I'll be making a new one every week. At the moment I don't really need a team, however I'll see how things go, and then maybe anyone who wants to help out can PM me. This RHN will follow the same structure as the last one, and a new issue will be posted every week, unless I am unable too (you know, school...), but, chances are, I should be able to have a new issue for every week, if not then hopefully only a day late. Well, enough of the introduction, let's get started :)


ROM Hacking News!


Well, on October the 9th, at 09:06 am GMT, something really important happened. What is that you may ask? The Hack Of The Year Round One started! Which other hack will join previous winners Ice, Naranja, Liquid Ocean, Prism, Rijon Adventures and Azure Horizons? Well, that depends, first you have to nominate the hacks which you think deserve to win! So, what are you waiting for? Go vote here!
Also, the hack known as Pokemon Sienna just released it's third beta this week! No that's something you don't hear very often, the hack's third beta includes 7 gyms, so big round of applause to Manipulation, Chibi Robo, and the rest of the team!
Also, we say goodbye to an old friend. The old rom hacking forums layout was changed, and is now confusing. RIP, old rom hacking layout.


Tip of the Week!


This weeks Tips And Tricks focuses on adding Sprite animations to Pokemon Ruby and Firered.
Spoiler:
The offset 1E7C64 in Ruby is the pointer to the stuff that tells us how the sprites behave when they appear. So, first of all, simply repoint it to another offset (if you don't know how to repoint then go away and learn).
Now, we must go to the offset it was repointed to, and then we need the animation data.
The first byte is the frame number.
The second byte does nothing.
The third byte is how long the image is displayed.
The fourth byte, again, does nothing.
To end the animation you must add
Code:

FF FF 00 00


Example-
Code:

00 00 0F 00
01 00 0F 00
00 00 0F 00
01 00 0F 00
00 00 0F 00
FF FF 00 00


Now, all sprites will have a second frame, so now just insert the two frames for every sprite. You must do this for EVERY Pokemon and backsprite, otherwise there are a lot of bugs.
For FireRed, it is the same, except instead of 1E7C64, use 2349BC


Hack of the Week Spotlight: Pokémon Celestium


http://i52.tinypic.com/addspf.jpg
Pokémon Celestium
Author: Alignment.
Hack of: FireRed.
Well Meggido hasn't posted yet but so far it seems like Celestium is in the lead, so I'll be reviewing that. Ok, if I was just to rate this hack on the story only, it would get an eleven out of ten. The hack features you, a small ten year old in Kanto, and you're starter is a Charmander. Sounds boring.
However, there is a lot more to this than meets the eye, two planets colliding? An alien race? A mission to defeat the aliens? I'd play that without a doubt, and I barely play any hacks anymore. Also, the aliens are fakemon, so no Pikachu with alien eyes, or simple recolours, an actual new race. In fact, this is one of the best storylines I've seen in ages, and I really want to see more.

The screenshots look amazing too, I love the bootscreen, and the mapping looks pretty good too, although a little empty in a few places, and the scripting also looks decent. The sprites aren't the best I've seen, but I like the concepts, and they aren't the worst either. Overall, I give this hack a 9/10.

The maps could be filled up a little more, and the tiles aren't too good, but other than that, a pretty good looking hack, well done Alingment :)


Interview: Manipulation


Spoiler:
AltariaKing: Ok, first off, when did you start hacking and why?

Manipulation: Must of been in secret in the Summer of 08 or something? I think I joined some small time forum and got linked to Elite Map and like one other thing and I thought I was the bee's knees because I could edit one little map.

Why did I do it, though? I'm not entirely sure really. I like Pokémon as much as the next person who frequents a Pokémon forum. I guess I joined PC and got into real hacking in a portion of my life that was very difficult for me and I needed something to keep me occupied. That's where and when I really started ROM Hacking.


AltariaKing: I see, also, I believe you were modded August last year, how did that feel?

Manipulation: I'm not entirely sure what that has to do with ROM Hacking but I'll answer because I feel obligated to. Well, yeah, it was the middle of August when Vrai and I were both promoted at the same time.

I guess it was a pretty good feeling because both me and him were out looking for it at the time and knew we were pretty viable candidates. In the end it showed as there was nothing separating us so they promoted the two of us. I can't really describe how it feels because it was about fourteen months ago. Have you ever done something really important in a sport? Like score a goal? Take a wicket? Hit an ace? Yeah, I guess it felt something like that.


AltariaKing: Also, did you know you were about to get hundreds of members asking you to approve thread and making threads calling you a nazi? Btw my thread needs approving xD

Manipulation: I was under the ingression this was a ROM Hacking Newsletter, not a PC Newsletter. I'd very much appreciate it if you asked me relevant questions.

AltariaKing: Yeah, I just wanted to see your expression xD
The next thing I want to ask you about is Sienna, which I believe used to be called Pokemon Shian. Do you ever look back on that thread and think about how much you've improved since then? Sienna is now, IMO, one of the best hacks out at the moment, and looking at the thread for Shian, you've made a massive improvement. Although maybe the Swablu as a starter could've stayed xD


Manipulation: Aye, it did. Not really. Nobody ever played Shian bar myself so there's no way someone can compare the two hacks, really.

AltariaKing: Ok, and one last question, are there any hacks you would recommend?

Manipulation: Pokémon Prism, Brown, rijionAdventures. Only three hacks I genuinely follow these days.

AltariaKing: Ok, thanks for taking the time out of your busy schedule to be interviewed :)


Conclusion


Well, sadly that's all for this week :(
But there will be a next issue next week, so don't worry xD
A major thanks goes to Thrace, of whom I got the idea from.
And don't forget to vote for Hack of the Year!

RHN 2010 - - - - Top

Aljam October 17th, 2010 9:18 AM

I think the font should be more sans serif and should be at a more smaller size. Also did you ask the people who originally made RHN to use their name and post it? Also if you were allowed to use their name, why didn't you use their css?

Kevin October 17th, 2010 10:23 AM

Heh this looks nice(=

Though next week there should be a CSS. XD And a lil' more organized. I can help (I know a tad bit CSS), and can post some ideas... =P

Either than that it doesn't look too bad. I rate it 5.8/10

Spherical Ice October 17th, 2010 10:40 AM

I understand that it's meant to be the content that matters, and I also understand that the layout is tentative, however the thread just looks plain messy as it is. :/

The way some of the text is written seems very amateur, and I have to agree with Manipulation; you seemed to stray off-topic in the interview. I'll be willing to help you out on this - CSS and article writing - if you want, because I've always liked RHN. Also, nice tip. <:

Banjora Marxvile October 17th, 2010 10:41 AM

Interesting, nice so far. I know it is a bit short as it is your first, but what would be great is if you got more... Variety. I'd say go on other forums, get interesting tricks for other things people hack too, interview other great hackers of these, and also give some statistics about random things - Such as easiest for tile inserting, etc. That would really add some variety, and may even influence us all on here too.

But good luck, and I hope that if I ever get skilled enough, some discovery of mine could feature on there. But, for now, Kirby will have to wait.

Zeffy October 17th, 2010 11:18 AM

Ugh. It was nice, but the colored text ruined it. Next time, try to use the default font color. Please, just please. The old RHN had quite a good layout, why don't you ask help from those who made them?

Binary October 17th, 2010 11:28 AM

I'm going to have to agree with everyone else with the layout. I would've preferred it without the colors and a suitable font; if not CSS. The tip is pretty useful and I'll go and experiment right away XD. The hack review isn't the best, but yeah it's alright. And the interview strayed a little off topic. Overall, pretty awesome.
I'll await next week's issue.

adhdguitar October 17th, 2010 1:08 PM

I enjoyed the colored text actually. If you can actually keep up with this and not let it die after a week, it could turn into something big. I look forward to the next issue.

Alignment October 17th, 2010 4:57 PM

OMG I see Celestium :D
I feel pretty good that you decided to review my hack, now if only people did that more at the thread. I must say looking at the screenshot it looks pretty ugly because the OWs aren't changed and the border of the text box isn't outlined.
My ROM crashed yesterday though, and my back up was a little over a month old D:
But stayed till about 3 AM fixing it (I just updated the back up lol).


K, enough of Celestium and onto the actual thread.
I think that the '~[enter title]' is pretty annoying. You did that and you said 'Introduction:', which I found inconsistent (as it's probably an error).
I like the fact that you color coded the interview with manipulation too, it surely makes it easier to follow. I think that you should consider a professional made CSS and maybe adding a few new sections like ROM hacking fads, I don't know.
You're biggest error by far however, is spelling 'Alignment' wrong near the end of Celestium's review. I can just imagine how much Alignment's feelings must've been hurt. They were probably really hurt.


Good job with the RHN letter anyways ;D

sab October 17th, 2010 5:06 PM

Just a warning to you guys. I remember the thread about adding second frames, and it sounded in there like you would also need to sprite second sprites for trainers, items, etc. That may not be true, but I'm 95% sure it is, so somebody correct me if I'm wrong. On the topic of the rest of the letter, I would add little links to the part with the big word manipulation or the text of pokemon celestium. The colors were okay by themselves, but the green and purple together, is very annoying. I would like to see you use some css, but I can't really fault you there cause I'm too lazy to learn myself. I think this is a good start though for a new RHN. It may be a little rough around the edges but still, I hope this one doesn't die like the rest.

Full Metal October 17th, 2010 5:06 PM

I'd gladly do the css :D
[if that's an option]
HERE is an example of my work. Please ignore the navi bar, as it is a WIP.

Spherical Ice October 18th, 2010 1:51 AM

Spoiler:
Spoiler:
RHN 2010

The ROM Hacking Newsletter

Week 1; 2010

Introduction


Hi guys! Well, after seeing the old rom hacking newsletter, and after seeing the rom hacking sections go from a mountain of posts everyday, to seven or eight posts a day, I thought I would start a new one. I've been busy this week trying to get this sorted out, and I'll be making a new one every week. At the moment I don't really need a team, however I'll see how things go, and then maybe anyone who wants to help out can PM me. This RHN will follow the same structure as the last one, and a new issue will be posted every week, unless I am unable too (you know, school...), but, chances are, I should be able to have a new issue for every week, if not then hopefully only a day late. Well, enough of the introduction, let's get started :)


ROM Hacking News!


Well, on October the 9th, at 09:06 am GMT, something really important happened. What is that you may ask? The Hack Of The Year Round One started! Which other hack will join previous winners Ice, Naranja, Liquid Ocean, Prism, Rijon Adventures and Azure Horizons? Well, that depends, first you have to nominate the hacks which you think deserve to win! So, what are you waiting for? Go vote here!
Also, the hack known as Pokemon Sienna just released it's third beta this week! No that's something you don't hear very often, the hack's third beta includes 7 gyms, so big round of applause to Manipulation, Chibi Robo, and the rest of the team!
Also, we say goodbye to an old friend. The old rom hacking forums layout was changed, and is now confusing. RIP, old rom hacking layout.


Tip of the Week!


This weeks Tips And Tricks focuses on adding Sprite animations to Pokemon Ruby and Firered.
Spoiler:
The offset 1E7C64 in Ruby is the pointer to the stuff that tells us how the sprites behave when they appear. So, first of all, simply repoint it to another offset (if you don't know how to repoint then go away and learn).
Now, we must go to the offset it was repointed to, and then we need the animation data.
The first byte is the frame number.
The second byte does nothing.
The third byte is how long the image is displayed.
The fourth byte, again, does nothing.
To end the animation you must add
Code:

FF FF 00 00


Example-
Code:

00 00 0F 00
01 00 0F 00
00 00 0F 00
01 00 0F 00
00 00 0F 00
FF FF 00 00


Now, all sprites will have a second frame, so now just insert the two frames for every sprite. You must do this for EVERY Pokemon and backsprite, otherwise there are a lot of bugs.
For FireRed, it is the same, except instead of 1E7C64, use 2349BC


Hack of the Week Spotlight: Pokémon Celestium


http://i52.tinypic.com/addspf.jpg
Pokémon Celestium
Author: Alignment.
Hack of: FireRed.
Well Meggido hasn't posted yet but so far it seems like Celestium is in the lead, so I'll be reviewing that. Ok, if I was just to rate this hack on the story only, it would get an eleven out of ten. The hack features you, a small ten year old in Kanto, and you're starter is a Charmander. Sounds boring.
However, there is a lot more to this than meets the eye, two planets colliding? An alien race? A mission to defeat the aliens? I'd play that without a doubt, and I barely play any hacks anymore. Also, the aliens are fakemon, so no Pikachu with alien eyes, or simple recolours, an actual new race. In fact, this is one of the best storylines I've seen in ages, and I really want to see more.

The screenshots look amazing too, I love the bootscreen, and the mapping looks pretty good too, although a little empty in a few places, and the scripting also looks decent. The sprites aren't the best I've seen, but I like the concepts, and they aren't the worst either. Overall, I give this hack a 9/10.

The maps could be filled up a little more, and the tiles aren't too good, but other than that, a pretty good looking hack, well done Alingment :)


Interview: Manipulation


Spoiler:
AltariaKing: Ok, first off, when did you start hacking and why?

Manipulation: Must of been in secret in the Summer of 08 or something? I think I joined some small time forum and got linked to Elite Map and like one other thing and I thought I was the bee's knees because I could edit one little map.

Why did I do it, though? I'm not entirely sure really. I like Pokémon as much as the next person who frequents a Pokémon forum. I guess I joined PC and got into real hacking in a portion of my life that was very difficult for me and I needed something to keep me occupied. That's where and when I really started ROM Hacking.


AltariaKing: I see, also, I believe you were modded August last year, how did that feel?

Manipulation: I'm not entirely sure what that has to do with ROM Hacking but I'll answer because I feel obligated to. Well, yeah, it was the middle of August when Vrai and I were both promoted at the same time.

I guess it was a pretty good feeling because both me and him were out looking for it at the time and knew we were pretty viable candidates. In the end it showed as there was nothing separating us so they promoted the two of us. I can't really describe how it feels because it was about fourteen months ago. Have you ever done something really important in a sport? Like score a goal? Take a wicket? Hit an ace? Yeah, I guess it felt something like that.


AltariaKing: Also, did you know you were about to get hundreds of members asking you to approve thread and making threads calling you a nazi? Btw my thread needs approving xD

Manipulation: I was under the ingression this was a ROM Hacking Newsletter, not a PC Newsletter. I'd very much appreciate it if you asked me relevant questions.

AltariaKing: Yeah, I just wanted to see your expression xD
The next thing I want to ask you about is Sienna, which I believe used to be called Pokemon Shian. Do you ever look back on that thread and think about how much you've improved since then? Sienna is now, IMO, one of the best hacks out at the moment, and looking at the thread for Shian, you've made a massive improvement. Although maybe the Swablu as a starter could've stayed xD


Manipulation: Aye, it did. Not really. Nobody ever played Shian bar myself so there's no way someone can compare the two hacks, really.

AltariaKing: Ok, and one last question, are there any hacks you would recommend?

Manipulation: Pokémon Prism, Brown, rijionAdventures. Only three hacks I genuinely follow these days.

AltariaKing: Ok, thanks for taking the time out of your busy schedule to be interviewed :)


Conclusion


Well, sadly that's all for this week :(
But there will be a next issue next week, so don't worry xD
A major thanks goes to Thrace, of whom I got the idea from.
And don't forget to vote for Hack of the Year!

RHN 2010 - - - - Top


The code:
Spoiler:

Code:

[CSS-DIV="text-align:left; color: #000; background-color: #E2EADD; margin-left: 2px; border: 2px solid #262439;"][a id]top1[/a id][css-div="width: 100%; background-color: #262439; color: #FFF; text-align: center;"][SIZE="1"]RHN 2010[/SIZE][/css-div][css-div=" padding: 5px;"][CENTER][SIZE="1"][B]navigation: [/B] [aurl="in"][COLOR="Black"]introduction[/COLOR][/aurl] | [aurl="ne"][COLOR="Black"]news[/COLOR][/aurl] | [aurl="ti"][COLOR="Black"]tips[/COLOR][/aurl] | [aurl="sp"][COLOR="Black"]spotlight[/COLOR][/aurl] | [aurl="int"][COLOR="Black"]interview[/COLOR][/aurl] | [aurl="co"][COLOR="Black"]conclusion[/COLOR][/aurl][/SIZE][/CENTER]
[h1]The ROM Hacking Newsletter[/h1][RIGHT][SIZE="1"]Week 1; 2010[/SIZE][/RIGHT]

[css-div="border: 1px solid #262439; padding: 5px; background-color: #86A387; -moz-border-radius: 12px; -webkit-border-radius: 12px; text-align: center;"][h2][a id]in[/a id]Introduction[/h2]
Hi guys! Well, after seeing the old rom hacking newsletter, and after seeing the rom hacking sections go from a mountain of posts everyday, to seven or eight posts a day, I thought I would start a new one. I've been busy this week trying to get this sorted out, and I'll be making a new one every week. At the moment I don't really need a team, however I'll see how things go, and then maybe anyone who wants to help out can PM me. This RHN will follow the same structure as the last one, and a new issue will be posted every week, unless I am unable too (you know, school...), but, chances are, I should be able to have a new issue for every week, if not then hopefully only a day late. Well, enough of the introduction, let's get started :)[/css-div]

[css-div="border: 1px solid #262439; padding: 5px; background-color: #86A387; -moz-border-radius: 12px; -webkit-border-radius: 12px;"][h2][a id]ne[/a id]ROM Hacking News![/h2]
Well, on October the 9th, at 09:06 am GMT, something really important happened. What is that you may ask? The Hack Of The Year Round One started! Which other hack will join previous winners Ice, Naranja, Liquid Ocean, Prism, Rijon Adventures and Azure Horizons? Well, that depends, first you have to nominate the hacks which you think deserve to win! So, what are you waiting for? Go vote [url="http://www.pokecommunity.com/showthread.php?t=234105"]here[/url]!
Also, the hack known as Pokemon Sienna just released it's third beta this week! No that's something you don't hear very often, the hack's third beta includes 7 gyms, so big round of applause to Manipulation, Chibi Robo, and the rest of the team!
Also, we say goodbye to an old friend. The old rom hacking forums layout was changed, and is now confusing. RIP, old rom hacking layout.[/css-div]

[css-div="border: 1px solid #262439; padding: 5px; background-color: #86A387; -moz-border-radius: 12px; -webkit-border-radius: 12px; text-align: left;"][h2][a id]ti[/a id]Tip of the Week![/h2]
This weeks Tips And Tricks focuses on adding Sprite animations to Pokemon Ruby and Firered.
[spoiler]The offset 1E7C64 in Ruby is the pointer to the stuff that tells us how the sprites behave when they appear. So, first of all, simply repoint it to another offset (if you don't know how to repoint then go away and learn).
Now, we must go to the offset it was repointed to, and then we need the animation data.
The first byte is the frame number.
The second byte does nothing.
The third byte is how long the image is displayed.
The fourth byte, again, does nothing.
To end the animation you must add
[code]FF FF 00 00[/code]
Example-
[code]00 00 0F 00
01 00 0F 00
00 00 0F 00
01 00 0F 00
00 00 0F 00
FF FF 00 00[/code]
Now, all sprites will have a second frame, so now just insert the two frames for every sprite. You must do this for EVERY Pokemon and backsprite, otherwise there are a lot of bugs.
For FireRed, it is the same, except instead of 1E7C64, use 2349BC[/spoiler][/css-div]

[css-div="border: 1px solid #262439; padding: 5px; background-color: #86A387; -moz-border-radius: 12px; -webkit-border-radius: 12px;"][h2][a id]sp[/a id]Hack of the Week Spotlight: [B]Pokémon Celestium[/B][/h2]
[css-div="border: 1px solid #000; padding: 2px; width: 240px;  float:right; text-align: center;"][img]http://i52.tinypic.com/addspf.jpg[/img]
[B]Pokémon Celestium[/B]
[SIZE="1"][B]Author:[/B] Alignment.
[B]Hack of:[/B] FireRed.[/SIZE][/css-div][css-div="padding-right: 10px;"]Well Meggido hasn't posted yet but so far it seems like Celestium is in the lead, so I'll be reviewing that. Ok, if I was just to rate this hack on the story only, it would get an eleven out of ten. The hack features you, a small ten year old in Kanto, and you're starter is a Charmander. Sounds boring.
However, there is a lot more to this than meets the eye, two planets colliding? An alien race? A mission to defeat the aliens? I'd play that without a doubt, and I barely play any hacks anymore. Also, the aliens are fakemon, so no Pikachu with alien eyes, or simple recolours, an actual new race. In fact, this is one of the best storylines I've seen in ages, and I really want to see more.

The screenshots look amazing too, I love the bootscreen, and the mapping looks pretty good too, although a little empty in a few places, and the scripting also looks decent. The sprites aren't the best I've seen, but I like the concepts, and they aren't the worst either. Overall, I give this hack a [B]9/10[/B].

The maps could be filled up a little more, and the tiles aren't too good, but other than that, a pretty good looking hack, well done Alingment :)[/css-div][/css-div]

[css-div="border: 1px solid #262439; padding: 5px; background-color: #86A387; -moz-border-radius: 12px; -webkit-border-radius: 12px;"][h2][a id]int[/a id]Interview: [B]Manipulation[/B][/h2]
[spoiler][LEFT][COLOR="Green"][B]AltariaKing:[/B] Ok, first off, when did you start hacking and why?[/COLOR]

[COLOR="Navy"][B]Manipulation:[/B] Must of been in secret in the Summer of 08 or something? I think I joined some small time forum and got linked to Elite Map and like one other thing and I thought I was the bee's knees because I could edit one little map.

Why did I do it, though? I'm not entirely sure really. I like Pokémon as much as the next person who frequents a Pokémon forum. I guess I joined PC and got into real hacking in a portion of my life that was very difficult for me and I needed something to keep me occupied. That's where and when I really started ROM Hacking.[/COLOR]

[COLOR="Green"][B]AltariaKing:[/B] I see, also, I believe you were modded August last year, how did that feel?[/COLOR]

[COLOR="Navy"][B]Manipulation:[/B] I'm not entirely sure what that has to do with ROM Hacking but I'll answer because I feel obligated to. Well, yeah, it was the middle of August when Vrai and I were both promoted at the same time.

I guess it was a pretty good feeling because both me and him were out looking for it at the time and knew we were pretty viable candidates. In the end it showed as there was nothing separating us so they promoted the two of us. I can't really describe how it feels because it was about fourteen months ago. Have you ever done something really important in a sport? Like score a goal? Take a wicket? Hit an ace? Yeah, I guess it felt something like that.[/COLOR]

[COLOR="Green"][B]AltariaKing:[/B] Also, did you know you were about to get hundreds of members asking you to approve thread and making threads calling you a nazi? Btw my thread needs approving xD[/COLOR]

[COLOR="Navy"][B]Manipulation:[/B] I was under the ingression this was a ROM Hacking Newsletter, not a PC Newsletter. I'd very much appreciate it if you asked me relevant questions.[/COLOR]

[COLOR="Green"][B]AltariaKing:[/B] Yeah, I just wanted to see your expression xD
The next thing I want to ask you about is Sienna, which I believe used to be called Pokemon Shian. Do you ever look back on that thread and think about how much you've improved since then? Sienna is now, IMO, one of the best hacks out at the moment, and looking at the thread for Shian, you've made a massive improvement. Although maybe the Swablu as a starter could've stayed xD[/COLOR]

[COLOR="Navy"][B]Manipulation:[/B] Aye, it did. Not really. Nobody ever played Shian bar myself so there's no way someone can compare the two hacks, really.
[/COLOR]
[COLOR="Green"][B]AltariaKing:[/B] Ok, and one last question, are there any hacks you would recommend?[/COLOR]

[COLOR="Navy"][B]Manipulation:[/B] Pokémon Prism, Brown, rijionAdventures. Only three hacks I genuinely follow these days.[/COLOR]

[COLOR="Green"][B]AltariaKing:[/B] Ok, thanks for taking the time out of your busy schedule to be interviewed :)[/COLOR][/LEFT][/spoiler][/css-div]

[css-div="border: 1px solid #262439; padding: 5px; background-color: #86A387; -moz-border-radius: 12px; -webkit-border-radius: 12px; text-align: center;"][h2][a id]co[/a id]Conclusion[/h2]
Well, sadly that's all for this week :(
But there will be a next issue next week, so don't worry xD
A major thanks goes to Thrace, of whom I got the idea from.
And don't forget to vote for Hack of the Year![/css-div]
[/css-div][css-div="width: 100%; background-color: #262439; color: #FFF; text-align: center;"][SIZE="1"]RHN 2010 [color="#262439"]- - - -[/color] [aurl="top1"][COLOR="White"]Top[/COLOR][/aurl][/SIZE][/css-div][/css-div]




How's that for some CSS, altariaking?

Anyway, I can safely say it's a lot easier to read now you've removed the colours etc. But, I think there was quite a lot of inconsistent grammar. Nothing major. maybe you need an editor :D

Kevin October 18th, 2010 4:24 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Spherical Ice (Post 6230749)
Spoiler:
Spoiler:
RHN 2010

The ROM Hacking Newsletter

Week 1; 2010

Introduction


Hi guys! Well, after seeing the old rom hacking newsletter, and after seeing the rom hacking sections go from a mountain of posts everyday, to seven or eight posts a day, I thought I would start a new one. I've been busy this week trying to get this sorted out, and I'll be making a new one every week. At the moment I don't really need a team, however I'll see how things go, and then maybe anyone who wants to help out can PM me. This RHN will follow the same structure as the last one, and a new issue will be posted every week, unless I am unable too (you know, school...), but, chances are, I should be able to have a new issue for every week, if not then hopefully only a day late. Well, enough of the introduction, let's get started :)


ROM Hacking News!


Well, on October the 9th, at 09:06 am GMT, something really important happened. What is that you may ask? The Hack Of The Year Round One started! Which other hack will join previous winners Ice, Naranja, Liquid Ocean, Prism, Rijon Adventures and Azure Horizons? Well, that depends, first you have to nominate the hacks which you think deserve to win! So, what are you waiting for? Go vote here!
Also, the hack known as Pokemon Sienna just released it's third beta this week! No that's something you don't hear very often, the hack's third beta includes 7 gyms, so big round of applause to Manipulation, Chibi Robo, and the rest of the team!
Also, we say goodbye to an old friend. The old rom hacking forums layout was changed, and is now confusing. RIP, old rom hacking layout.


Tip of the Week!


This weeks Tips And Tricks focuses on adding Sprite animations to Pokemon Ruby and Firered.
Spoiler:
The offset 1E7C64 in Ruby is the pointer to the stuff that tells us how the sprites behave when they appear. So, first of all, simply repoint it to another offset (if you don't know how to repoint then go away and learn).
Now, we must go to the offset it was repointed to, and then we need the animation data.
The first byte is the frame number.
The second byte does nothing.
The third byte is how long the image is displayed.
The fourth byte, again, does nothing.
To end the animation you must add
Code:

FF FF 00 00


Example-
Code:

00 00 0F 00
01 00 0F 00
00 00 0F 00
01 00 0F 00
00 00 0F 00
FF FF 00 00


Now, all sprites will have a second frame, so now just insert the two frames for every sprite. You must do this for EVERY Pokemon and backsprite, otherwise there are a lot of bugs.
For FireRed, it is the same, except instead of 1E7C64, use 2349BC


Hack of the Week Spotlight: Pokémon Celestium


http://i52.tinypic.com/addspf.jpg
Pokémon Celestium
Author: Alignment.
Hack of: FireRed.
Well Meggido hasn't posted yet but so far it seems like Celestium is in the lead, so I'll be reviewing that. Ok, if I was just to rate this hack on the story only, it would get an eleven out of ten. The hack features you, a small ten year old in Kanto, and you're starter is a Charmander. Sounds boring.
However, there is a lot more to this than meets the eye, two planets colliding? An alien race? A mission to defeat the aliens? I'd play that without a doubt, and I barely play any hacks anymore. Also, the aliens are fakemon, so no Pikachu with alien eyes, or simple recolours, an actual new race. In fact, this is one of the best storylines I've seen in ages, and I really want to see more.

The screenshots look amazing too, I love the bootscreen, and the mapping looks pretty good too, although a little empty in a few places, and the scripting also looks decent. The sprites aren't the best I've seen, but I like the concepts, and they aren't the worst either. Overall, I give this hack a 9/10.

The maps could be filled up a little more, and the tiles aren't too good, but other than that, a pretty good looking hack, well done Alingment :)


Interview: Manipulation


Spoiler:
AltariaKing: Ok, first off, when did you start hacking and why?

Manipulation: Must of been in secret in the Summer of 08 or something? I think I joined some small time forum and got linked to Elite Map and like one other thing and I thought I was the bee's knees because I could edit one little map.

Why did I do it, though? I'm not entirely sure really. I like Pokémon as much as the next person who frequents a Pokémon forum. I guess I joined PC and got into real hacking in a portion of my life that was very difficult for me and I needed something to keep me occupied. That's where and when I really started ROM Hacking.


AltariaKing: I see, also, I believe you were modded August last year, how did that feel?

Manipulation: I'm not entirely sure what that has to do with ROM Hacking but I'll answer because I feel obligated to. Well, yeah, it was the middle of August when Vrai and I were both promoted at the same time.

I guess it was a pretty good feeling because both me and him were out looking for it at the time and knew we were pretty viable candidates. In the end it showed as there was nothing separating us so they promoted the two of us. I can't really describe how it feels because it was about fourteen months ago. Have you ever done something really important in a sport? Like score a goal? Take a wicket? Hit an ace? Yeah, I guess it felt something like that.


AltariaKing: Also, did you know you were about to get hundreds of members asking you to approve thread and making threads calling you a nazi? Btw my thread needs approving xD

Manipulation: I was under the ingression this was a ROM Hacking Newsletter, not a PC Newsletter. I'd very much appreciate it if you asked me relevant questions.

AltariaKing: Yeah, I just wanted to see your expression xD
The next thing I want to ask you about is Sienna, which I believe used to be called Pokemon Shian. Do you ever look back on that thread and think about how much you've improved since then? Sienna is now, IMO, one of the best hacks out at the moment, and looking at the thread for Shian, you've made a massive improvement. Although maybe the Swablu as a starter could've stayed xD


Manipulation: Aye, it did. Not really. Nobody ever played Shian bar myself so there's no way someone can compare the two hacks, really.

AltariaKing: Ok, and one last question, are there any hacks you would recommend?

Manipulation: Pokémon Prism, Brown, rijionAdventures. Only three hacks I genuinely follow these days.

AltariaKing: Ok, thanks for taking the time out of your busy schedule to be interviewed :)


Conclusion


Well, sadly that's all for this week :(
But there will be a next issue next week, so don't worry xD
A major thanks goes to Thrace, of whom I got the idea from.
And don't forget to vote for Hack of the Year!

RHN 2010 - - - - Top


The code:
Spoiler:

Code:

[CSS-DIV="text-align:left; color: #000; background-color: #E2EADD; margin-left: 2px; border: 2px solid #262439;"][a id]top1[/a id][css-div="width: 100%; background-color: #262439; color: #FFF; text-align: center;"][SIZE="1"]RHN 2010[/SIZE][/css-div][css-div=" padding: 5px;"][CENTER][SIZE="1"][B]navigation: [/B] [aurl="in"][COLOR="Black"]introduction[/COLOR][/aurl] | [aurl="ne"][COLOR="Black"]news[/COLOR][/aurl] | [aurl="ti"][COLOR="Black"]tips[/COLOR][/aurl] | [aurl="sp"][COLOR="Black"]spotlight[/COLOR][/aurl] | [aurl="int"][COLOR="Black"]interview[/COLOR][/aurl] | [aurl="co"][COLOR="Black"]conclusion[/COLOR][/aurl][/SIZE][/CENTER]
[h1]The ROM Hacking Newsletter[/h1][RIGHT][SIZE="1"]Week 1; 2010[/SIZE][/RIGHT]

[css-div="border: 1px solid #262439; padding: 5px; background-color: #86A387; -moz-border-radius: 12px; -webkit-border-radius: 12px; text-align: center;"][h2][a id]in[/a id]Introduction[/h2]
Hi guys! Well, after seeing the old rom hacking newsletter, and after seeing the rom hacking sections go from a mountain of posts everyday, to seven or eight posts a day, I thought I would start a new one. I've been busy this week trying to get this sorted out, and I'll be making a new one every week. At the moment I don't really need a team, however I'll see how things go, and then maybe anyone who wants to help out can PM me. This RHN will follow the same structure as the last one, and a new issue will be posted every week, unless I am unable too (you know, school...), but, chances are, I should be able to have a new issue for every week, if not then hopefully only a day late. Well, enough of the introduction, let's get started :)[/css-div]

[css-div="border: 1px solid #262439; padding: 5px; background-color: #86A387; -moz-border-radius: 12px; -webkit-border-radius: 12px;"][h2][a id]ne[/a id]ROM Hacking News![/h2]
Well, on October the 9th, at 09:06 am GMT, something really important happened. What is that you may ask? The Hack Of The Year Round One started! Which other hack will join previous winners Ice, Naranja, Liquid Ocean, Prism, Rijon Adventures and Azure Horizons? Well, that depends, first you have to nominate the hacks which you think deserve to win! So, what are you waiting for? Go vote [url="http://www.pokecommunity.com/showthread.php?t=234105"]here[/url]!
Also, the hack known as Pokemon Sienna just released it's third beta this week! No that's something you don't hear very often, the hack's third beta includes 7 gyms, so big round of applause to Manipulation, Chibi Robo, and the rest of the team!
Also, we say goodbye to an old friend. The old rom hacking forums layout was changed, and is now confusing. RIP, old rom hacking layout.[/css-div]

[css-div="border: 1px solid #262439; padding: 5px; background-color: #86A387; -moz-border-radius: 12px; -webkit-border-radius: 12px; text-align: left;"][h2][a id]ti[/a id]Tip of the Week![/h2]
This weeks Tips And Tricks focuses on adding Sprite animations to Pokemon Ruby and Firered.
[spoiler]The offset 1E7C64 in Ruby is the pointer to the stuff that tells us how the sprites behave when they appear. So, first of all, simply repoint it to another offset (if you don't know how to repoint then go away and learn).
Now, we must go to the offset it was repointed to, and then we need the animation data.
The first byte is the frame number.
The second byte does nothing.
The third byte is how long the image is displayed.
The fourth byte, again, does nothing.
To end the animation you must add
[code]FF FF 00 00[/code]
Example-
[code]00 00 0F 00
01 00 0F 00
00 00 0F 00
01 00 0F 00
00 00 0F 00
FF FF 00 00[/code]
Now, all sprites will have a second frame, so now just insert the two frames for every sprite. You must do this for EVERY Pokemon and backsprite, otherwise there are a lot of bugs.
For FireRed, it is the same, except instead of 1E7C64, use 2349BC[/spoiler][/css-div]

[css-div="border: 1px solid #262439; padding: 5px; background-color: #86A387; -moz-border-radius: 12px; -webkit-border-radius: 12px;"][h2][a id]sp[/a id]Hack of the Week Spotlight: [B]Pokémon Celestium[/B][/h2]
[css-div="border: 1px solid #000; padding: 2px; width: 240px;  float:right; text-align: center;"][img]http://i52.tinypic.com/addspf.jpg[/img]
[B]Pokémon Celestium[/B]
[SIZE="1"][B]Author:[/B] Alignment.
[B]Hack of:[/B] FireRed.[/SIZE][/css-div][css-div="padding-right: 10px;"]Well Meggido hasn't posted yet but so far it seems like Celestium is in the lead, so I'll be reviewing that. Ok, if I was just to rate this hack on the story only, it would get an eleven out of ten. The hack features you, a small ten year old in Kanto, and you're starter is a Charmander. Sounds boring.
However, there is a lot more to this than meets the eye, two planets colliding? An alien race? A mission to defeat the aliens? I'd play that without a doubt, and I barely play any hacks anymore. Also, the aliens are fakemon, so no Pikachu with alien eyes, or simple recolours, an actual new race. In fact, this is one of the best storylines I've seen in ages, and I really want to see more.

The screenshots look amazing too, I love the bootscreen, and the mapping looks pretty good too, although a little empty in a few places, and the scripting also looks decent. The sprites aren't the best I've seen, but I like the concepts, and they aren't the worst either. Overall, I give this hack a [B]9/10[/B].

The maps could be filled up a little more, and the tiles aren't too good, but other than that, a pretty good looking hack, well done Alingment :)[/css-div][/css-div]

[css-div="border: 1px solid #262439; padding: 5px; background-color: #86A387; -moz-border-radius: 12px; -webkit-border-radius: 12px;"][h2][a id]int[/a id]Interview: [B]Manipulation[/B][/h2]
[spoiler][LEFT][COLOR="Green"][B]AltariaKing:[/B] Ok, first off, when did you start hacking and why?[/COLOR]

[COLOR="Navy"][B]Manipulation:[/B] Must of been in secret in the Summer of 08 or something? I think I joined some small time forum and got linked to Elite Map and like one other thing and I thought I was the bee's knees because I could edit one little map.

Why did I do it, though? I'm not entirely sure really. I like Pokémon as much as the next person who frequents a Pokémon forum. I guess I joined PC and got into real hacking in a portion of my life that was very difficult for me and I needed something to keep me occupied. That's where and when I really started ROM Hacking.[/COLOR]

[COLOR="Green"][B]AltariaKing:[/B] I see, also, I believe you were modded August last year, how did that feel?[/COLOR]

[COLOR="Navy"][B]Manipulation:[/B] I'm not entirely sure what that has to do with ROM Hacking but I'll answer because I feel obligated to. Well, yeah, it was the middle of August when Vrai and I were both promoted at the same time.

I guess it was a pretty good feeling because both me and him were out looking for it at the time and knew we were pretty viable candidates. In the end it showed as there was nothing separating us so they promoted the two of us. I can't really describe how it feels because it was about fourteen months ago. Have you ever done something really important in a sport? Like score a goal? Take a wicket? Hit an ace? Yeah, I guess it felt something like that.[/COLOR]

[COLOR="Green"][B]AltariaKing:[/B] Also, did you know you were about to get hundreds of members asking you to approve thread and making threads calling you a nazi? Btw my thread needs approving xD[/COLOR]

[COLOR="Navy"][B]Manipulation:[/B] I was under the ingression this was a ROM Hacking Newsletter, not a PC Newsletter. I'd very much appreciate it if you asked me relevant questions.[/COLOR]

[COLOR="Green"][B]AltariaKing:[/B] Yeah, I just wanted to see your expression xD
The next thing I want to ask you about is Sienna, which I believe used to be called Pokemon Shian. Do you ever look back on that thread and think about how much you've improved since then? Sienna is now, IMO, one of the best hacks out at the moment, and looking at the thread for Shian, you've made a massive improvement. Although maybe the Swablu as a starter could've stayed xD[/COLOR]

[COLOR="Navy"][B]Manipulation:[/B] Aye, it did. Not really. Nobody ever played Shian bar myself so there's no way someone can compare the two hacks, really.
[/COLOR]
[COLOR="Green"][B]AltariaKing:[/B] Ok, and one last question, are there any hacks you would recommend?[/COLOR]

[COLOR="Navy"][B]Manipulation:[/B] Pokémon Prism, Brown, rijionAdventures. Only three hacks I genuinely follow these days.[/COLOR]

[COLOR="Green"][B]AltariaKing:[/B] Ok, thanks for taking the time out of your busy schedule to be interviewed :)[/COLOR][/LEFT][/spoiler][/css-div]

[css-div="border: 1px solid #262439; padding: 5px; background-color: #86A387; -moz-border-radius: 12px; -webkit-border-radius: 12px; text-align: center;"][h2][a id]co[/a id]Conclusion[/h2]
Well, sadly that's all for this week :(
But there will be a next issue next week, so don't worry xD
A major thanks goes to Thrace, of whom I got the idea from.
And don't forget to vote for Hack of the Year![/css-div]
[/css-div][css-div="width: 100%; background-color: #262439; color: #FFF; text-align: center;"][SIZE="1"]RHN 2010 [color="#262439"]- - - -[/color] [aurl="top1"][COLOR="White"]Top[/COLOR][/aurl][/SIZE][/css-div][/css-div]




How's that for some CSS, altariaking?

Anyway, I can safely say it's a lot easier to read now you've removed the colours etc. But, I think there was quite a lot of inconsistent grammar. Nothing major. maybe you need an editor :D

I really like this~! Good job <: I'd edit the first post if I could. XD Nice job. I think altariaking will like it also.

~Teh Panda~ October 18th, 2010 8:02 AM

Well, this is looking a bit... a bit unready for the release of it already... First of all the layout is almost nonexistent. I would advise using a CSS like here or here... Also the tip is kind of pointless as there is a thread on it... Try to be original and develop a new tip for everyone! :). Good job overall but it seems a bit more like a WIP

colcolstyles October 18th, 2010 11:19 PM

Somewhere, Thrace is turning over in his grave.

Also, am I the only one who is slightly annoyed that the majority of the responses so far have had more to do with the format of the thread rather than the content, or lack thereof?

altariaking October 19th, 2010 4:17 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by colcolstyles (Post 6232680)
Somewhere, Thrace is turning over in his grave.

Quote:

Originally Posted by colcolstyles (Post 6232680)

Also, am I the only one who is slightly annoyed that the majority of the responses so far have had more to do with the format of the thread rather than the content, or lack thereof?

Orly?
Fine, if nobody likes it, I'd like for the thread to be cloesed. You could've at least said why. And I'm pretty sure not being on a Pokemon forum doesn't make someone dead. You may as well have just said "This is crap but I don't know why.", and I genuinely felt offended by that.

Edit: Actually, don't close this, I'm going to continue regardless of one persons opinion.

Dr. POP October 19th, 2010 5:05 AM

I like the idea of the ROM Hacking Newsletter. Great that it returns! If you'll use the CSS of Spherical Ice it'll look also look good.
Good luck!

altariaking October 19th, 2010 9:17 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Aljam (Post 6228853)
I think the font should be more sans serif and should be at a more smaller size. Also did you ask the people who originally made RHN to use their name and post it? Also if you were allowed to use their name, why didn't you use their css?

Yeah, I've edited that, but do I need permission to use a name? :S

Quote:

Originally Posted by Destiny Demon (Post 6229054)
Heh this looks nice(=

Though next week there should be a CSS. XD And a lil' more organized. I can help (I know a tad bit CSS), and can post some ideas... =P

Either than that it doesn't look too bad. I rate it 5.8/10

Thanks :)

Quote:

Originally Posted by Banjora Marxvile (Post 6229112)
Interesting, nice so far. I know it is a bit short as it is your first, but what would be great is if you got more... Variety. I'd say go on other forums, get interesting tricks for other things people hack too, interview other great hackers of these, and also give some statistics about random things - Such as easiest for tile inserting, etc. That would really add some variety, and may even influence us all on here too.

But good luck, and I hope that if I ever get skilled enough, some discovery of mine could feature on there. But, for now, Kirby will have to wait.

Thanks, I'll try that :)

Quote:

Originally Posted by Zeffy (Post 6229216)
Ugh. It was nice, but the colored text ruined it. Next time, try to use the default font color. Please, just please. The old RHN had quite a good layout, why don't you ask help from those who made them?

/Spherical Ice made a CSS :)

Quote:

Originally Posted by Binary (Post 6229255)
I'm going to have to agree with everyone else with the layout. I would've preferred it without the colors and a suitable font; if not CSS. The tip is pretty useful and I'll go and experiment right away XD. The hack review isn't the best, but yeah it's alright. And the interview strayed a little off topic. Overall, pretty awesome.
I'll await next week's issue.

Thanks :)

Quote:

Originally Posted by adhdguitar (Post 6229493)
I enjoyed the colored text actually. If you can actually keep up with this and not let it die after a week, it could turn into something big. I look forward to the next issue.

Thanks :)
And I can assure you, I will try my hardest not to let this die xD

Quote:

Originally Posted by Alignment (Post 6230011)
OMG I see Celestium :D
I feel pretty good that you decided to review my hack, now if only people did that more at the thread. I must say looking at the screenshot it looks pretty ugly because the OWs aren't changed and the border of the text box isn't outlined.
My ROM crashed yesterday though, and my back up was a little over a month old D:
But stayed till about 3 AM fixing it (I just updated the back up lol).


K, enough of Celestium and onto the actual thread.
I think that the '~[enter title]' is pretty annoying. You did that and you said 'Introduction:', which I found inconsistent (as it's probably an error).
I like the fact that you color coded the interview with manipulation too, it surely makes it easier to follow. I think that you should consider a professional made CSS and maybe adding a few new sections like ROM hacking fads, I don't know.
You're biggest error by far however, is spelling 'Alignment' wrong near the end of Celestium's review. I can just imagine how much Alignment's feelings must've been hurt. They were probably really hurt.


Good job with the RHN letter anyways ;D

Thanks, it actually looks like a really good hack IMO.
Yeah, I couldn't think of anything else to use as titles, so I just did that ~Title thing. I'm not sure what you mean by Rom Hacking Fads exactly, could you elaborate please?

I'm a bad person D: (Jk, I'll edit the post xD)

Quote:

Originally Posted by sab (Post 6230027)
Just a warning to you guys. I remember the thread about adding second frames, and it sounded in there like you would also need to sprite second sprites for trainers, items, etc. That may not be true, but I'm 95% sure it is, so somebody correct me if I'm wrong. On the topic of the rest of the letter, I would add little links to the part with the big word manipulation or the text of pokemon celestium. The colors were okay by themselves, but the green and purple together, is very annoying. I would like to see you use some css, but I can't really fault you there cause I'm too lazy to learn myself. I think this is a good start though for a new RHN. It may be a little rough around the edges but still, I hope this one doesn't die like the rest.

Nope, sorry, that was a mistake I made in the thread, it's just Pokemon and their backsprites.
Thanks, that's not actually a bad idea :)

Quote:

Originally Posted by Full Metal (Post 6230029)
I'd gladly do the css :D
[if that's an option]
HERE is an example of my work. Please ignore the navi bar, as it is a WIP.

Thanks but
Quote:

Originally Posted by Spherical Ice (Post 6230749)
Spoiler:
Spoiler:
RHN 2010

The ROM Hacking Newsletter

Week 1; 2010

Introduction


Hi guys! Well, after seeing the old rom hacking newsletter, and after seeing the rom hacking sections go from a mountain of posts everyday, to seven or eight posts a day, I thought I would start a new one. I've been busy this week trying to get this sorted out, and I'll be making a new one every week. At the moment I don't really need a team, however I'll see how things go, and then maybe anyone who wants to help out can PM me. This RHN will follow the same structure as the last one, and a new issue will be posted every week, unless I am unable too (you know, school...), but, chances are, I should be able to have a new issue for every week, if not then hopefully only a day late. Well, enough of the introduction, let's get started :)


ROM Hacking News!


Well, on October the 9th, at 09:06 am GMT, something really important happened. What is that you may ask? The Hack Of The Year Round One started! Which other hack will join previous winners Ice, Naranja, Liquid Ocean, Prism, Rijon Adventures and Azure Horizons? Well, that depends, first you have to nominate the hacks which you think deserve to win! So, what are you waiting for? Go vote here!
Also, the hack known as Pokemon Sienna just released it's third beta this week! No that's something you don't hear very often, the hack's third beta includes 7 gyms, so big round of applause to Manipulation, Chibi Robo, and the rest of the team!
Also, we say goodbye to an old friend. The old rom hacking forums layout was changed, and is now confusing. RIP, old rom hacking layout.


Tip of the Week!


This weeks Tips And Tricks focuses on adding Sprite animations to Pokemon Ruby and Firered.
Spoiler:
The offset 1E7C64 in Ruby is the pointer to the stuff that tells us how the sprites behave when they appear. So, first of all, simply repoint it to another offset (if you don't know how to repoint then go away and learn).
Now, we must go to the offset it was repointed to, and then we need the animation data.
The first byte is the frame number.
The second byte does nothing.
The third byte is how long the image is displayed.
The fourth byte, again, does nothing.
To end the animation you must add
Code:

FF FF 00 00


Example-
Code:

00 00 0F 00
01 00 0F 00
00 00 0F 00
01 00 0F 00
00 00 0F 00
FF FF 00 00


Now, all sprites will have a second frame, so now just insert the two frames for every sprite. You must do this for EVERY Pokemon and backsprite, otherwise there are a lot of bugs.
For FireRed, it is the same, except instead of 1E7C64, use 2349BC


Hack of the Week Spotlight: Pokémon Celestium


http://i52.tinypic.com/addspf.jpg
Pokémon Celestium
Author: Alignment.
Hack of: FireRed.
Well Meggido hasn't posted yet but so far it seems like Celestium is in the lead, so I'll be reviewing that. Ok, if I was just to rate this hack on the story only, it would get an eleven out of ten. The hack features you, a small ten year old in Kanto, and you're starter is a Charmander. Sounds boring.
However, there is a lot more to this than meets the eye, two planets colliding? An alien race? A mission to defeat the aliens? I'd play that without a doubt, and I barely play any hacks anymore. Also, the aliens are fakemon, so no Pikachu with alien eyes, or simple recolours, an actual new race. In fact, this is one of the best storylines I've seen in ages, and I really want to see more.

The screenshots look amazing too, I love the bootscreen, and the mapping looks pretty good too, although a little empty in a few places, and the scripting also looks decent. The sprites aren't the best I've seen, but I like the concepts, and they aren't the worst either. Overall, I give this hack a 9/10.

The maps could be filled up a little more, and the tiles aren't too good, but other than that, a pretty good looking hack, well done Alingment :)


Interview: Manipulation


Spoiler:
AltariaKing: Ok, first off, when did you start hacking and why?

Manipulation: Must of been in secret in the Summer of 08 or something? I think I joined some small time forum and got linked to Elite Map and like one other thing and I thought I was the bee's knees because I could edit one little map.

Why did I do it, though? I'm not entirely sure really. I like Pokémon as much as the next person who frequents a Pokémon forum. I guess I joined PC and got into real hacking in a portion of my life that was very difficult for me and I needed something to keep me occupied. That's where and when I really started ROM Hacking.


AltariaKing: I see, also, I believe you were modded August last year, how did that feel?

Manipulation: I'm not entirely sure what that has to do with ROM Hacking but I'll answer because I feel obligated to. Well, yeah, it was the middle of August when Vrai and I were both promoted at the same time.

I guess it was a pretty good feeling because both me and him were out looking for it at the time and knew we were pretty viable candidates. In the end it showed as there was nothing separating us so they promoted the two of us. I can't really describe how it feels because it was about fourteen months ago. Have you ever done something really important in a sport? Like score a goal? Take a wicket? Hit an ace? Yeah, I guess it felt something like that.


AltariaKing: Also, did you know you were about to get hundreds of members asking you to approve thread and making threads calling you a nazi? Btw my thread needs approving xD

Manipulation: I was under the ingression this was a ROM Hacking Newsletter, not a PC Newsletter. I'd very much appreciate it if you asked me relevant questions.

AltariaKing: Yeah, I just wanted to see your expression xD
The next thing I want to ask you about is Sienna, which I believe used to be called Pokemon Shian. Do you ever look back on that thread and think about how much you've improved since then? Sienna is now, IMO, one of the best hacks out at the moment, and looking at the thread for Shian, you've made a massive improvement. Although maybe the Swablu as a starter could've stayed xD


Manipulation: Aye, it did. Not really. Nobody ever played Shian bar myself so there's no way someone can compare the two hacks, really.

AltariaKing: Ok, and one last question, are there any hacks you would recommend?

Manipulation: Pokémon Prism, Brown, rijionAdventures. Only three hacks I genuinely follow these days.

AltariaKing: Ok, thanks for taking the time out of your busy schedule to be interviewed :)


Conclusion


Well, sadly that's all for this week :(
But there will be a next issue next week, so don't worry xD
A major thanks goes to Thrace, of whom I got the idea from.
And don't forget to vote for Hack of the Year!

RHN 2010 - - - - Top


The code:
Spoiler:

Code:

[CSS-DIV="text-align:left; color: #000; background-color: #E2EADD; margin-left: 2px; border: 2px solid #262439;"][a id]top1[/a id][css-div="width: 100%; background-color: #262439; color: #FFF; text-align: center;"][SIZE="1"]RHN 2010[/SIZE][/css-div][css-div=" padding: 5px;"][CENTER][SIZE="1"][B]navigation: [/B] [aurl="in"][COLOR="Black"]introduction[/COLOR][/aurl] | [aurl="ne"][COLOR="Black"]news[/COLOR][/aurl] | [aurl="ti"][COLOR="Black"]tips[/COLOR][/aurl] | [aurl="sp"][COLOR="Black"]spotlight[/COLOR][/aurl] | [aurl="int"][COLOR="Black"]interview[/COLOR][/aurl] | [aurl="co"][COLOR="Black"]conclusion[/COLOR][/aurl][/SIZE][/CENTER]
[h1]The ROM Hacking Newsletter[/h1][RIGHT][SIZE="1"]Week 1; 2010[/SIZE][/RIGHT]

[css-div="border: 1px solid #262439; padding: 5px; background-color: #86A387; -moz-border-radius: 12px; -webkit-border-radius: 12px; text-align: center;"][h2][a id]in[/a id]Introduction[/h2]
Hi guys! Well, after seeing the old rom hacking newsletter, and after seeing the rom hacking sections go from a mountain of posts everyday, to seven or eight posts a day, I thought I would start a new one. I've been busy this week trying to get this sorted out, and I'll be making a new one every week. At the moment I don't really need a team, however I'll see how things go, and then maybe anyone who wants to help out can PM me. This RHN will follow the same structure as the last one, and a new issue will be posted every week, unless I am unable too (you know, school...), but, chances are, I should be able to have a new issue for every week, if not then hopefully only a day late. Well, enough of the introduction, let's get started :)[/css-div]

[css-div="border: 1px solid #262439; padding: 5px; background-color: #86A387; -moz-border-radius: 12px; -webkit-border-radius: 12px;"][h2][a id]ne[/a id]ROM Hacking News![/h2]
Well, on October the 9th, at 09:06 am GMT, something really important happened. What is that you may ask? The Hack Of The Year Round One started! Which other hack will join previous winners Ice, Naranja, Liquid Ocean, Prism, Rijon Adventures and Azure Horizons? Well, that depends, first you have to nominate the hacks which you think deserve to win! So, what are you waiting for? Go vote [url="http://www.pokecommunity.com/showthread.php?t=234105"]here[/url]!
Also, the hack known as Pokemon Sienna just released it's third beta this week! No that's something you don't hear very often, the hack's third beta includes 7 gyms, so big round of applause to Manipulation, Chibi Robo, and the rest of the team!
Also, we say goodbye to an old friend. The old rom hacking forums layout was changed, and is now confusing. RIP, old rom hacking layout.[/css-div]

[css-div="border: 1px solid #262439; padding: 5px; background-color: #86A387; -moz-border-radius: 12px; -webkit-border-radius: 12px; text-align: left;"][h2][a id]ti[/a id]Tip of the Week![/h2]
This weeks Tips And Tricks focuses on adding Sprite animations to Pokemon Ruby and Firered.
[spoiler]The offset 1E7C64 in Ruby is the pointer to the stuff that tells us how the sprites behave when they appear. So, first of all, simply repoint it to another offset (if you don't know how to repoint then go away and learn).
Now, we must go to the offset it was repointed to, and then we need the animation data.
The first byte is the frame number.
The second byte does nothing.
The third byte is how long the image is displayed.
The fourth byte, again, does nothing.
To end the animation you must add
[code]FF FF 00 00[/code]
Example-
[code]00 00 0F 00
01 00 0F 00
00 00 0F 00
01 00 0F 00
00 00 0F 00
FF FF 00 00[/code]
Now, all sprites will have a second frame, so now just insert the two frames for every sprite. You must do this for EVERY Pokemon and backsprite, otherwise there are a lot of bugs.
For FireRed, it is the same, except instead of 1E7C64, use 2349BC[/spoiler][/css-div]

[css-div="border: 1px solid #262439; padding: 5px; background-color: #86A387; -moz-border-radius: 12px; -webkit-border-radius: 12px;"][h2][a id]sp[/a id]Hack of the Week Spotlight: [B]Pokémon Celestium[/B][/h2]
[css-div="border: 1px solid #000; padding: 2px; width: 240px;  float:right; text-align: center;"][img]http://i52.tinypic.com/addspf.jpg[/img]
[B]Pokémon Celestium[/B]
[SIZE="1"][B]Author:[/B] Alignment.
[B]Hack of:[/B] FireRed.[/SIZE][/css-div][css-div="padding-right: 10px;"]Well Meggido hasn't posted yet but so far it seems like Celestium is in the lead, so I'll be reviewing that. Ok, if I was just to rate this hack on the story only, it would get an eleven out of ten. The hack features you, a small ten year old in Kanto, and you're starter is a Charmander. Sounds boring.
However, there is a lot more to this than meets the eye, two planets colliding? An alien race? A mission to defeat the aliens? I'd play that without a doubt, and I barely play any hacks anymore. Also, the aliens are fakemon, so no Pikachu with alien eyes, or simple recolours, an actual new race. In fact, this is one of the best storylines I've seen in ages, and I really want to see more.

The screenshots look amazing too, I love the bootscreen, and the mapping looks pretty good too, although a little empty in a few places, and the scripting also looks decent. The sprites aren't the best I've seen, but I like the concepts, and they aren't the worst either. Overall, I give this hack a [B]9/10[/B].

The maps could be filled up a little more, and the tiles aren't too good, but other than that, a pretty good looking hack, well done Alingment :)[/css-div][/css-div]

[css-div="border: 1px solid #262439; padding: 5px; background-color: #86A387; -moz-border-radius: 12px; -webkit-border-radius: 12px;"][h2][a id]int[/a id]Interview: [B]Manipulation[/B][/h2]
[spoiler][LEFT][COLOR="Green"][B]AltariaKing:[/B] Ok, first off, when did you start hacking and why?[/COLOR]

[COLOR="Navy"][B]Manipulation:[/B] Must of been in secret in the Summer of 08 or something? I think I joined some small time forum and got linked to Elite Map and like one other thing and I thought I was the bee's knees because I could edit one little map.

Why did I do it, though? I'm not entirely sure really. I like Pokémon as much as the next person who frequents a Pokémon forum. I guess I joined PC and got into real hacking in a portion of my life that was very difficult for me and I needed something to keep me occupied. That's where and when I really started ROM Hacking.[/COLOR]

[COLOR="Green"][B]AltariaKing:[/B] I see, also, I believe you were modded August last year, how did that feel?[/COLOR]

[COLOR="Navy"][B]Manipulation:[/B] I'm not entirely sure what that has to do with ROM Hacking but I'll answer because I feel obligated to. Well, yeah, it was the middle of August when Vrai and I were both promoted at the same time.

I guess it was a pretty good feeling because both me and him were out looking for it at the time and knew we were pretty viable candidates. In the end it showed as there was nothing separating us so they promoted the two of us. I can't really describe how it feels because it was about fourteen months ago. Have you ever done something really important in a sport? Like score a goal? Take a wicket? Hit an ace? Yeah, I guess it felt something like that.[/COLOR]

[COLOR="Green"][B]AltariaKing:[/B] Also, did you know you were about to get hundreds of members asking you to approve thread and making threads calling you a nazi? Btw my thread needs approving xD[/COLOR]

[COLOR="Navy"][B]Manipulation:[/B] I was under the ingression this was a ROM Hacking Newsletter, not a PC Newsletter. I'd very much appreciate it if you asked me relevant questions.[/COLOR]

[COLOR="Green"][B]AltariaKing:[/B] Yeah, I just wanted to see your expression xD
The next thing I want to ask you about is Sienna, which I believe used to be called Pokemon Shian. Do you ever look back on that thread and think about how much you've improved since then? Sienna is now, IMO, one of the best hacks out at the moment, and looking at the thread for Shian, you've made a massive improvement. Although maybe the Swablu as a starter could've stayed xD[/COLOR]

[COLOR="Navy"][B]Manipulation:[/B] Aye, it did. Not really. Nobody ever played Shian bar myself so there's no way someone can compare the two hacks, really.
[/COLOR]
[COLOR="Green"][B]AltariaKing:[/B] Ok, and one last question, are there any hacks you would recommend?[/COLOR]

[COLOR="Navy"][B]Manipulation:[/B] Pokémon Prism, Brown, rijionAdventures. Only three hacks I genuinely follow these days.[/COLOR]

[COLOR="Green"][B]AltariaKing:[/B] Ok, thanks for taking the time out of your busy schedule to be interviewed :)[/COLOR][/LEFT][/spoiler][/css-div]

[css-div="border: 1px solid #262439; padding: 5px; background-color: #86A387; -moz-border-radius: 12px; -webkit-border-radius: 12px; text-align: center;"][h2][a id]co[/a id]Conclusion[/h2]
Well, sadly that's all for this week :(
But there will be a next issue next week, so don't worry xD
A major thanks goes to Thrace, of whom I got the idea from.
And don't forget to vote for Hack of the Year![/css-div]
[/css-div][css-div="width: 100%; background-color: #262439; color: #FFF; text-align: center;"][SIZE="1"]RHN 2010 [color="#262439"]- - - -[/color] [aurl="top1"][COLOR="White"]Top[/COLOR][/aurl][/SIZE][/css-div][/css-div]




How's that for some CSS, altariaking?

Anyway, I can safely say it's a lot easier to read now you've removed the colours etc. But, I think there was quite a lot of inconsistent grammar. Nothing major. maybe you need an editor :D

Sorry :(
And thanks a bunch for the CSS Ice :)

Quote:

Originally Posted by Destiny Demon (Post 6230882)
I really like this~! Good job <: I'd edit the first post if I could. XD Nice job. I think altariaking will like it also.

I most certainly do =D

Quote:

Originally Posted by ~Teh Panda~ (Post 6231072)
Well, this is looking a bit... a bit unready for the release of it already... First of all the layout is almost nonexistent. I would advise using a CSS like here or here... Also the tip is kind of pointless as there is a thread on it... Try to be original and develop a new tip for everyone! :). Good job overall but it seems a bit more like a WIP

Yeah, I couldn't really think of anything when I was writing this up :(

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jm20 (Post 6232855)
I like the idea of the ROM Hacking Newsletter. Great that it returns! If you'll use the CSS of Spherical Ice it'll look also look good.
Good luck!

Thanks :)

Sorry everyone for this being such a fail, I assure you the next one will definitely be much better.

Satoshi Ookami October 19th, 2010 9:22 AM

Not bad for a start =) In fact pretty good =)
The most important thing is that this feature has returned =)
I kinda missed it so I hope you will continue =)

Vrai October 19th, 2010 8:07 PM

@colcolstyles; Ahaha, I can see that. And yes. ;D

@...everything else [warning tl;dr lolol]
Now there's a lot to talk about. Let's start with the good things.

First things first: It's pretty. The format looks nice. I wish you'd put the date instead of "Week 1". I think it would be better to call it "Issue 1" and put it somewhere near the title, but I digress.

We never rated hacks that don't have a playable beta. You could change that I guess, but images are indeed deceiving. Nothing like a piss-poor hack getting a really high grade because it looked and sounded sexy but played like an elephant stepping on hot coals. So don't ever worry about giving a rating to HotW winners because honestly those probably don't have a good beta behind them.

Your ROM Hacking News is kind of opinionated, which I don't really expect from my "news" source. Sure, I've been out of date for a while, but I kind of actually like this new format. But... this newletter tells me that it's confusing. Maybe to you who's been here every day, but it works for me. And mentioning Sienna? Why not any other hack? My hack Pokemon Flaming Rocket Battle Awsome just got an update today. Why didn't you mention that?

Yeah, honestly, a news section has never really worked out for any of the newsletters that ever existed. There are a couple of reasons for this: a) Everyone who cares enough to read this "newsletter" already probably reads most of the forum and thus knows all of the "news" that goes on around here. And I quote "news" because b) what news goes on around here anyway? I mean... there's the HotY. What else of note is going on around here that a regular wouldn't know? And let's be honest, here. Only regulars read this kind of thing. New kids don't even read the rules. Why should they come read this random newsletter?

So. A newsletter that basically has no real "news" section (or a purpose for one) isn't really a newsletter, is it? There have been some attempts to change up the newsletter, like I think someone recorded a podcast, someone tried a video, hell, my man Teh Panda over there made a miniature hack for RHN one week and it was surprisingly pretty entertaining but not something that could be maintained over a long time. You see, the thing is, Thrace's newsletter was successful. But after a while, a newsletter got tiring. There wasn't really a point in upholding it when it became the same thing every time. And that's what each of these reincarnations have become - the same thing as before.

I just thought right now that the hack you reviewed might actually have a beta but I'm too lazy to go check so I apologize if it did. That advice still applies, however.

I feel like I'm reaching too far here so let's go back down to ground level. Your newsletter has, to be blunt, not-so-fantastic grammar. I mean, most of your spelling is accurate, but your capitalization is inconsistent, you're missing punctuation here and there, and your spacing between lines seems weird. You spelled the to-be winner of HotW's name wrong. Yes, I'm a Grammar Nazi and I notice the stupidest of things but honestly, there has to be a certain quality and professionalism that you have to uphold as the community newsletter and this newletter isn't really up to par. You could do with a good editor, I think.

Your review... okay, sure, you can call it a review. Personally, I haven't looked at this hack, so let's see what this review tells me about this hack.

Spoiler:
Quote:

Originally Posted by altariaking
Well Meggido hasn't posted yet but so far it seems like Celestium is in the lead, so I'll be reviewing that. Ok, if I was just to rate this hack on the story only, it would get an eleven out of ten. (Okay. So now I know that you like the story.) The hack features you, a small ten year old in Kanto, and you're starter is a Charmander. Sounds boring.
However, there is a lot more to this than meets the eye, two planets colliding? An alien race? A mission to defeat the aliens? (While you bring up a couple of other ideas the only thing I really get from this is the facts - you're in Kanto, you have a Charmander. As far as what I can infer, the first sentence tells me that this is the whole generic adventure thing, get your 8 badges, yada yada yada. But now this second one totally confuses me and I have no idea what you're talking about. Aliens? That's... completely random. Why don't you explain more about it, because honestly it sounds... eh.) I'd play that without a doubt, and I barely play any hacks anymore. (That's nice, but I don't really care about that.) Also, the aliens are fakemon, so no Pikachu with alien eyes, or simple recolours, an actual new race. (Okay so now there's fakemon. That's an important fact that needs to be highlighted, especially since it's a rather controversial topic. Someone might have thought this would be incredible but then gets entirely turned off because they hate fakemon.) In fact, this is one of the best storylines I've seen in ages, and I really want to see more. (Uh, okay. Again, nothing here that I am really interested in. While your opinion is the article, it's... kind of meant to be avoided, you know? It makes you seem biased and if what you say doesn't concur with my opinions, then I'll probably not take your opinion solidly again. Being non-biased makes up part of your professionalism, which is needed if anyone's going to take anything seriously.)

The screenshots look amazing too, I love the bootscreen, and the mapping looks pretty good too, although a little empty in a few places, and the scripting also looks decent. The sprites aren't the best I've seen, but I like the concepts, and they aren't the worst either. (This entire paragraph? Yeah, it means nothing to me. All I know is that the hack apparently succeeds most of your standards. Amazing? What is "amazing"? What's your definition of "decent scripting"? How about you talk more about the game than just give me your opinions?) Overall, I give this hack a 9/10. (I think I already discussed that part earlier.)

The maps could be filled up a little more, and the tiles aren't too good, but other than that, a pretty good looking hack, well done Alingment (Again, these are just worthless opinions that I don't really care too much about. Also you spelled his name wrong. :< )



Yes, a review is opinion, but when your opinions are simply just stated to me I can't find the answers to the questions I'm looking for. (i.e. If I wanted to "review" this skateboard and I just said "This skateboard looks nice! It has a really sick color and grips on the handle!", you don't learn anything from it!) And the most important thing... what is this a hack of? You said this is a review, but I'm really just given your opinion and deprived of information. That's not the way it should go, at all.

Interview is passable, I guess. But that's only because I was mentioned! :D It's really... brief. Like, there's nothing there really. I learned how Harry started hacking even though I knew it already but I mean... that's it. There was no game plan it seems. Did you have a list of questions you were going to ask before you did it? While it's okay to stray off-topic in an interview, as long as you stick to discussing the person (yeah don't invite your hack in there) and their accomplishments etc. I think this would be a lot better if you put more thought into it than the generic beginning and ending questions. I mean this interview must have been done in five seconds flat. That's really, really...

Okay. Let's run over what is important.

A. You need to become more professional about this. I don't want to read a half-assed newsletter that really gives me no news and spells people's names wrong. :(

B. Be... specific. Your opinions don't mean anything to me unless you put meaning to them. And give information when you review. I don't care if you liked the sprites, I want you to describe them to me.

C. Don't try to be everyone before you. And don't try to hard to be different. Gradually changing things is the only way that it'll work out well, really. And it starts by being consistent and maintaining a newsletter that everyone will read. It'll be hard, but you have to have those guts, that willpower that you can do it all the time. Assembling a solid, reliable team that spits out quality work is of top priority.

D. Be consistent. Be consistent. Yes, it's that important that I need to say it twice. People won't pay attention to this if you release the second one three days after the first and then the third two weeks after that.

There's a lot you have to work on here, but it's not impossible. I hope you're up to the challenge. I'd try to help out but really I have no time and to be completely honest, I'm not reliable. Ask Harry. Or whoever hired me for mod.

Anyway, it's pretty, but that's not all there is to a newsletter. Keep trying, bro.

edit; also your css screeny box is kind of off
edit2; on reviewing, try looking at that for those things you should be talking about

looper October 20th, 2010 10:17 AM

I think, the newsletter is an awesome Idea. Can I translate it and post it in the german game-z-one.info blog?

altariaking October 24th, 2010 12:33 PM

RHN 2010

The ROM Hacking Newsletter

Issue 2; Sunday 24th October 2010

Introduction


Welcome to Issue 2 of RHN 2010. Last week we received quite a bit of negative feedback; although we've been slightly offended, we won't let this affect RHN - it will simply make us get better. Note how I said us - I'd like to welcome a new member to the RHN Team, Spherical Ice! Also we've got a neat-o CSS design; unfortunately though, there's no tip this week. If you think you've got a neat tip, though, be sure to send a PM to either myself or Spherical Ice. Hope you guys like it~ :D


ROM Hacking News!


Some of you may have noticed that, whilst Hack of the Year is underway, the ROM Hacking Get-togethers will not be held. Speaking of HOTY, don't forget to vote for your favourite hacks here!


Hack Review: Pokémon AshGray

http://i54.tinypic.com/2vao12b.png
Pokémon AshGray.
Author: metapod23.
Hack of: FireRed.
Reviewed by: altariaking.
Okay, the first thing I noticed in Pokemon AshGray, is that the pixel art on the title screen is pretty poor. There are no outlines, making it look very jagged, and it lacks highlights, which is a shame because the background and text was quite good, but the pixel art really needs improvement. The same goes for the hero sprite, both in the intro and on the trainer card.

Storywise, there isn't really much to comment on, as it is based on the anime.

The scripting is pretty good, and is backed up by JPAN's hacked FireRed to enable events that follow the anime almost perfectly, although a lot could've been added to bring it closer to the anime, for example the Team Rocket battles. A lot of them have been missed out, and probably should've been kept, as there are a lot of high leveled trainers very easrly on; there were trainers with Pokemon in their thirties whilst mine were still in their low twenties.
Another thing which could've made it feel more like the anime, would be to have Brock and Misty in all the cities, telling the player what they must do, sort of like a help feature, and for the sake of having two major characters actually doing, well, stuff, as they are barely in the hack at all.

There are also a lot of bugs. A lot. After battling Brock I was told I had to battle him again, and I did so, but nothing happened afterwards except for me being trapped inside the gym. There are also bad eggs appearing randomly in the PC, and a lot of things are left for you to do without knowing you have to do them to progress, such as the Squirtle Squad episode, the player is not told what to do in order to progress, and when I finally found out by searching the thread, the solution to pass the episode was something that nobody would've expected, which goes back to my idea of having Brock and Misty there to help.

The mapping and tiles...oh dear the mapping and tiles.....they are terrible. There is no other word for it. The mapping is really empty, and has quite a few tile errors, whilst the tiles all just clash with each other, there are the original firered palettes on tiles that should never have used them, it just does not look good.

In terms of scripting and gameplay, this is a really great hack, but there are so many things that really put me off it. I give it a 6/10.


Hack Review: Pokémon Mythic Legends


http://img804.imageshack.us/img804/491/pokemonmythiclegends06.png
Pokémon Mythic Legends
Author: Psychicboy.
Hack of: FireRed.
Reviewed by: Spherical Ice.
Within ten seconds of playing Mythic Legends' third beta I found a glitch. That's never a good thing. Unfortunately, as I played on, there were more and more things that put me off from carrying on playing.

Firstly, the player's overworld sprite is horrid. If you can't make a good one, keep it as the default one. On the subject of the player; he speaks. It just doesn't work in RPGs in general when the player speaks, especially in Pokémon.

The scripting in Mythic Legends isn't that great, either. There are some parts where I expect a level script to automatically occur, but instead it's an interact script which really doesn't fit in well, with nonsensical unpassable tiles to stop you from continuing. And this is the first event, by the way.

Legendary starters. In Mythic Legends, an mysterious old trainer gives you the choice of befriending the "three guardians" (which are actually Entei, Raikou and Suicune). And after you choose one, the overworld reappears again; once again, inconsistent scripting by Psychicboy. Not to mention Legendary starters just break the game.

Guess what? Self-insertion is next up in the pet-peeves! And guess what else? Psychicboy throws in a bit of dialogue, full with emoticons and three exclamation marks/question marks/a combination of the two! Oh joy!

It also seems that Psychicboy lacks the knowledge of the Text Adjuster (covered in the Beginners Corner :D), with strings of text that just come off as messy. Psychicboy also seems to not know about flags and variables, scripts repeating themselves.

Finally, the mapping in Mythic Legends isn't very nice either. There is a lot of empty space, and most of the maps are failed attempts at natural (i.e noob ntrl) maps.

All in all, Mythic Legend is a very unpolished hack. I think Psychicboy should've beta tested this much more, as this is Scrapbox quality... I may have been very harsh here on Psychicboy, but I honestly can't see the appeal of Mythic Legends...at all.

I give this a 3/10; mediocre.


Beginner's Corner!


I'm sure many of you have seen hacks with text running out of the box, or just inconsistencies (a new textbox being started randomly). There has been a way to stop this for quite some time, that many hackers have seemed to neglected. That is XSE's Text Adjuster.

It's simple to access, and I've got into quite a cool rhythm when inserting my text. Here's quick guide on the TA. First, type the text out without putting the equals sign. If want to start on a new textbox, hit enter twice, and if you want to start on a new line, hit enter once. Once you've typed it all out (and grammar/spell-checked it in a word processor!), select it, hit CTRL + C (copy), CTRL + T (open up the Text Adjuster) and then CTRL + V, which should paste it into the box. All you've got to do now is click convert, and then insert. And that's it. :D


Interview: Astar_01.


Spoiler:
Spherical Ice: Hello, astar_01!
Spherical Ice: I'd like to say thank you for joining us today. :D
Astar: Hello, it's nice to be here
Spherical Ice: So, how did you find out about hacking?
Astar: I was told by a friend of mine who knew about Whack a Hack.
Spherical Ice: I see. Was your friend a ROM Hacker?
Astar: He wasn't. I persuaded him to help me with my first hack but he couldn't be bothered to help... He lacks motivation.
Spherical Ice: Haha. You certainly don't, though, judging by the substantial progress that's happening with your hack, Grey.
Spherical Ice: On the matter of Grey, it's looking great so far. :D
Spherical Ice: I'm a closet follower.
Astar: Well I work very hard on it, infact as we speak I'm adding in several 5th Generation Pokémon. Unfortunately I've been busy lately so progress is slow...
Astar: But I won't give up ;)
Spherical Ice: That's always a great thing to hear.
Spherical Ice: So, when did you first find PC?
Astar: Wow, now that's a question. I think my profile says decemeber 2007? I also looked at other people's hacks and lurked in the background, never commenting. I didn't think my work was good enough.
Spherical Ice: Did you ever make a hack behind-the-scenes?
Astar: Oh yes, I have many hacks on my computers, I made one that starred steven stone's adventures in kanto (not HGSS events) and another one based in an icy region. I'm afraid to say neither of these were finished but the skills I gained making them, allowed me to make Grey as good as it is today.
Spherical Ice: Hm, sounds interesting.
Spherical Ice: Grey's story is, some say, very dark for a Pokémon hack. What do you think about that?
Astar: Well, I too believe it's a dark story. I believe that a lot of hacks nowadays follow the Nintendo pattern (don't get me wrong, there good too). When I thought up Grey I wanted the storyline to be a little more mature to other hacks. I find that player's enjoy a game more when they get to know the characters and their feelings. That's how I want people to play Grey. I want them to feel the lows and highs of the story.
Spherical Ice: Judging by the screenshots, I'm sure you'll be able to pull that off. What do you think about the hacking scene today? Do you think the quality of hacks have improved, or do you think they are decreasing in quality?
Astar: Well there certainly has been some rising stars in the recent years, but there has also been a sea of shovel. I will not name any as I don't believe that would be fair to the owners. When I first started I taught everything myself, I believe new hackers should try this before posting something that isn't very good.
Spherical Ice: I couldn't agree more.
Spherical Ice:I can safely say you are one of the rising stars, along with Grey. :D
Astar: Thank you, good comments are also good for motivation.
Astar: *always
Spherical Ice: My pleasure.
Spherical Ice: What are your favourite hacks? Would you recommend some to our readers?
Astar: Hmmm... I guess one hack I really enjoyed is Pokémon Identity. The scripts in that hack are amazing. I also like Pokémon Sienna, however on the latest beta, the game crashed on the forest entrance (made me sad :( ). In the past there has been great hacks like the Ruby Destiny games. When I play a hack I look for the quality of scripts. If a good script is pulled off I appreciate how much work would of been put into it.
Spherical Ice: Great recommendations, I'm sure I agree with you.
Spherical Ice: I enjoyed the Ruby Destiny games, too.
Spherical Ice: To wrap this up, would you like to give some advice to budding hackers?
Astar: Ok, here's my advice, expand your rom to 32mb. I know it makes patching more difficult but it gives you so much more space (obviously). I use this space for repointed images (sprites, titlescreen, etc.). I also recommend always keeping a back up. Losing work is one of the worst feelings. Oh, one more thing... Check the forums regularly, there is so many new things coming out. Especially seeming as christmas is coming up, there's usually christmas presents in the form of ASM. ;)
Spherical Ice: Yup, I remember last year and the RTC. :D
Spherical Ice: That's some solid advice, folks.
Spherical Ice: Thanks for coming, Astar.
Astar: No problem, it was great to come along and talk to you.
Spherical Ice: Oh you.


Conclusion


Well, thanks for reading. Hopefully we'll get a bit of a positive response this week. Here's hoping you enjoyed it.

RHN 2010 - - - - Top

Logan October 24th, 2010 1:02 PM

Honestly? I think I liked last weeks more. This week didn't even have a tips & tricks; in every single incarnation of the RHN the one thing I enjoy reading the most is the tips tricks section, I am very disappointed with this.

I really disliked the interview; I feel it was very badly acted out. I say acted because the whole thing seemed like it was written from a script and didn't have much realism. I'd much more appreciate it if the interviewer's questions spawned from the answers of the interviewee and acted out like more of an interview than a scene from a television show.


In real life when someone is interviewing someone they expand on the interviewee's answers by branching away from it and expanding their knowledge of the person/subject this way. I also think interview's should be conducted with someone who's got a bit more pull in the Emulation and ROM Hacking sections. I don't mean any offence to astar but who would you rather read an interview with, him or destinedjagold/Christos/thethethethe/Darthatron/colcolstyles/insert any well recognised name here?

Now, I think you're in a bit of a tough situation here. You're acting as though this is a professionally done newsletter, right? However, you're going on to add things in your articles such as smilies. Do you read newspapers in real life? If you don't I highly suggest you do as you'll get a much better grasp of the art of journalism. You definitely wouldn't see a smilie in an official article.

Quote:

Some of you may have noticed that, whilst Hack of the Year is underway, the ROM Hacking Get-togethers will not be held. Speaking of HOTY, don't forget to vote for your favourite hacks here!
I honestly don't know where you're getting this information from. I, and I only, am the only person on the forums who knows what's going on with the ROM Hacking get-togethers and that is definitely not the real reason why they're not currently running. This can be grouped together with my previous problems on your professionalism; are you running a newspaper or a tabloid? Seriously, you should make your mind up and fix the title of this thing to something suitable.

I still notice the array of grammatical errors and you should definitely try hiring someone to fix up everything that is seeping through your own filters on this matter. Whether it's an incorrect semi-colon usage, a misused comma or a general spelling error, it all effects your newsletter's reputation in the long run. Another add-on to my professionalism worries is your use of the word "stuff" in the articles; stuff is a very informal word, I suggest that you invest in a Thesaurus to help you out.

I may being a little harsh on you and your team here but I'm honestly doing it because I genuinely wish for this 'newsletter' to succeed.

Alice October 24th, 2010 1:43 PM

Why have I never heard of this before? Can't say that I've been given the best first impression though, considering the most recent post...

NiKaNoRoU October 24th, 2010 2:12 PM

It's still a good effort, guys. I mean c'mon, Pink Parka Girl isn't doing her reviews anymore, so these should suffice. As for the interview, though...it didn't feel like an interview this week. And last week, well, it seemed like AK tried to dwell outside of bounds. The CSS is looking good, by the way.


Quote:

Firstly, the player's overworld sprite is horrid. If you can't make a good one, keep it as the default one.
Well, that was the second or third sprite request I had, back then. D:
It does stand out though, so I have no regrets.

Alignment October 24th, 2010 2:16 PM

I too liked last week's issue more than this. I noticed that you were trying to use 'fancy' punctuation throughout the thread (like semicolons and dashes), but in all honesty I spotted basic grammar errors like run on sentences and missing capitalizations. My advice would be: don't use 'em if you don't know how.

I still think that your hack reviews are too opinion based, and therefore biased. Not to mention that you should have only rated one hack per issue. Going on about the rating, your review of Mythic legends seemed like an endless river of insults. No one cares about your opinion of how lame his hack is (not implying it is lame at all). In fact, I don't see one compliment or at least beneficial piece of information about his hack; hell, why did you rate his hack in the first place if you think it's so bad? You also mentioned the 'Scrapbox'. I don't think some newer members are familiar with it, so you shouldn't use that kind of term to describe something (not to mention it's rude). I think there was a bit of disrespect and other influences here from your past experiences -you shouldn't let that affect your report on his hack.

About the interview, I agree with Manipulation. Besides that, I think it was great that Spherical Ice had some background knowledge about Astar's hack (I like your hack too Astar \ shout out) .

Summing it up:
1) Use proper grammar (especially since this is a News Paper)
2) Don't use RHN as your excuse to bash at members who you dislike
3) Provide facts and information, aside from your opinion
4) I want a more topics to be covered. (Maybe something like ROM hacking accomplishments, with a cool discovery that someone came up with).
5) I like the CSS :)


No I don't care if you decide to eternally hate me. I'm just providing some criticism about your methods and your RHN issue.

Kevin October 24th, 2010 2:31 PM

Well, last week's was honestly better than this week's, like mostly everyone else said. And there's no Tips and Tricks? )= Most of the stuff is hack reviews... And there's grammar errors here and there, but yeah. Also, I think that the RHN doesn't have to be posted every week. Once you have good, nice information, you can release a new newsletter. It doesn't have to be every week, or else it looks like you're rushing and there's not a whole lot of good stuff to read. So, I just suggest take your time on this, read thoroughly, wait some time so there will be more different stuff on the newsletter, than post the newsletter once it's ready. (=

colcolstyles October 24th, 2010 5:47 PM

Ah, the second issue was much better. It's nice to see that you've put some effort into improving, something that a lot of people refuse to do. However, there are still a few things I didn't like.

Quote:

Originally Posted by altariaking (Post 6244367)
Some of you may have noticed that, whilst Hack of the Year is underway, the ROM Hacking Get-togethers will not be held.

What is it with people and using "whilst" these days? Nobody actually says it anymore (at least, not colloquially) and "while" sounds perfectly fine.

Quote:

Originally Posted by altariaking (Post 6244367)
Storywise, there isn't really much to comment on, as it is based on the anime.

Some of us actually haven't seen many episodes of the anime, or at least haven't seen them in ten years. You might want to elaborate on that next time.

Other than that, though, this review seemed pretty good. I haven't played the hack but just from reading the new posts in its thread every day, it seems like you've hit most of the main issues (off the top of my head, you forgot that one annoying gym sign). However, I really didn't like the second hack review. Didn't Vrai specifically mention objectivity in his post? The second review is written very informally and with much personal bias. Something to strive for next time, I guess.

Though it can't fully take the place of a nice Tip/Trick, the Beginner's Corner subject is an important one and I'm glad that you touched on it. Hopefully the people that need help with textboxes actually read this.

The interview was much better this time. (edit: I finally got around to reading other people's responses (I wanted to formulate my own without reading anybody else's first) and I have to agree that it did seem a little unnatural. However, it still was a big improvement from last week's interview.) Also, you've just given me an idea for a great Christmas present. ;)

WinterSong October 24th, 2010 6:39 PM

Erm. Thanks for the textbox trick(I am a beginner. ;]) However, your review for the second hack was rather rude. o_O

astar_01 October 25th, 2010 1:48 PM

I'm glad to see issue 2 is finally up, but I'm sad to see quite a bit of negative feedback.
I read thought everyone's comments and I can see what you meant by the interview feeling 'Unnatural'.
I don't believe it is any fault of Spherical Ice as his interviewing questions were very professional. I think It would of been better to of cut out pointless dialogue between questions so it didn't feel so dry to the reader.
On the whole, RHN is improving... It has only been 2 weeks so you've gotta give it chance to find a fomula that everyone likes. :)

Chimchar 9 October 25th, 2010 2:22 PM

To be honest you need to add more to the article. It's too short, think of something fresh and NEW, that's never been seen in a RHN before. If you can't think of any ideas, ask the people here as they're the ones reading it.

I'd really like this to be better than the old one, so c'mon guys you can do it! :)

esperance October 25th, 2010 2:28 PM

This is great! I can't wait for, issue 3? But, I feel the interview was unnatural and short, plus it went way off the point. Wasn't it a ROM hacking interview? All in all, keep it up!

altariaking October 30th, 2010 1:36 PM

Just thought I'd let everyone know, there will now be a new issue every two weeks, instead of one, as I have exams in a month, as well as having my hack to work on. So, the next update will not be tomorrow, but the week after. Happy Halloween!

Kevin October 30th, 2010 1:39 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by altariaking (Post 6258085)
Just thought I'd let everyone know, there will now be a new issue every two weeks, instead of one, as I have exams in a month, as well as having my hack to work on. So, the next update will not be tomorrow, but the week after. Happy Halloween!

I think that sounds better. Plus you can find and get more information for the newsletter and have more time to revise it.


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