RHN 2010

[altariaking]

[CSS-DIV="text-align:left; color: #000; background-color: #E2EADD; margin-left: 2px; border: 2px solid #262439;"][a id]top1[/a id]

RHN 2010

navigation: introduction | news | tips | spotlight | interview | conclusion​

The ROM Hacking Newsletter

Week 1; 2010​

[a id]in[/a id]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 :)

[a id]ne[/a id]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.

[a id]ti[/a id]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

FF FF 00 00

Example-

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

[a id]sp[/a id]Hack of the Week Spotlight: Pokémon Celestium

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 :)

[a id]int[/a id]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 :)​

[a id]co[/a id]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

[/div]

 

[Aljam]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

Spoiler:

Spoiler:

[CSS-DIV="text-align:left; color: #000; background-color: #E2EADD; margin-left: 2px; border: 2px solid #262439;"][a id]top1[/a id]

RHN 2010

navigation: introduction | news | tips | spotlight | interview | conclusion​

The ROM Hacking Newsletter

Week 1; 2010​

[a id]in[/a id]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 :)

[a id]ne[/a id]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.

[a id]ti[/a id]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

FF FF 00 00

Example-

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

[a id]sp[/a id]Hack of the Week Spotlight: Pokémon Celestium

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 :)

[a id]int[/a id]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 :)​

[a id]co[/a id]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

[/div]

The code:

Spoiler:

[PLAIN][CSS-DIV="text-align:left; color: #000; background-color: #E2EADD; margin-left: 2px; border: 2px solid #262439;"][a id]top1[/a id][div="width: 100%; background-color: #262439; color: #FFF; text-align: center;"][SIZE="1"]RHN 2010[/SIZE][/div][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]

[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 :)[/div]

[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="https://www.pokecommunity.com/threads/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.[/div]

[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

Example-

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

[/div]

[a id]sp[/a id]Hack of the Week Spotlight: Pokémon Celestium

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 :)

[a id]int[/a id]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 :)​

[a id]co[/a id]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!

[/div]

RHN 2010 - - - - Top

[/div][/PLAIN][/code]

[/spoiler]

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]

Spoiler:

Spoiler:

[CSS-DIV="text-align:left; color: #000; background-color: #E2EADD; margin-left: 2px; border: 2px solid #262439;"][a id]top1[/a id]

RHN 2010

navigation: introduction | news | tips | spotlight | interview | conclusion​

The ROM Hacking Newsletter

Week 1; 2010​

[a id]in[/a id]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 :)

[a id]ne[/a id]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.

[a id]ti[/a id]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

FF FF 00 00

Example-

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

[a id]sp[/a id]Hack of the Week Spotlight: Pokémon Celestium

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 :)

[a id]int[/a id]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 :)​

[a id]co[/a id]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

[/CSS-DIV]

The code:

Spoiler:

[PLAIN][CSS-DIV="text-align:left; color: #000; background-color: #E2EADD; margin-left: 2px; border: 2px solid #262439;"][a id]top1[/a id][div="width: 100%; background-color: #262439; color: #FFF; text-align: center;"][SIZE="1"]RHN 2010[/SIZE][/div][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]

[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 :)[/div]

[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="https://www.pokecommunity.com/threads/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.[/div]

[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

Example-

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

[/div]

[a id]sp[/a id]Hack of the Week Spotlight: Pokémon Celestium

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 :)

[a id]int[/a id]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 :)​

[a id]co[/a id]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!

[/div]

RHN 2010 - - - - Top

[/div][/PLAIN][/code]

[/spoiler]

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~]

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]

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]

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?

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]

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]

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

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 :)

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 :)

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 :)

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 :)

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

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)

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 :)

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

Spoiler:

Spoiler:

[CSS-DIV="text-align:left; color: #000; background-color: #E2EADD; margin-left: 2px; border: 2px solid #262439;"][a id]top1[/a id]

RHN 2010

navigation: introduction | news | tips | spotlight | interview | conclusion​

The ROM Hacking Newsletter

Week 1; 2010​

[a id]in[/a id]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 :)

[a id]ne[/a id]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.

[a id]ti[/a id]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

FF FF 00 00

Example-

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

[a id]sp[/a id]Hack of the Week Spotlight: Pokémon Celestium

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 :)

[a id]int[/a id]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 :)​

[a id]co[/a id]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

[/div]

The code:

Spoiler:

[PLAIN][CSS-DIV="text-align:left; color: #000; background-color: #E2EADD; margin-left: 2px; border: 2px solid #262439;"][a id]top1[/a id][div="width: 100%; background-color: #262439; color: #FFF; text-align: center;"][SIZE="1"]RHN 2010[/SIZE][/div][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]

[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 :)[/div]

[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="https://www.pokecommunity.com/threads/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.[/div]

[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

Example-

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

[/div]

[a id]sp[/a id]Hack of the Week Spotlight: Pokémon Celestium

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 :)

[a id]int[/a id]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 :)​

[a id]co[/a id]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!

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RHN 2010 - - - - Top

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[/spoiler]

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 :)

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

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 :(

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]

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]

@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:

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