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February 2006 Donation Items Critique |
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This month's donation items are the Chyaku Norisu Scarf and the G9 Laptop.
Techno Ninja?
This seems like an odd mix of items this month to release. On one side is a laptop, and on the other is a ninja scarf similar to that of the video game Shinobi. However, one can go into houses, the other is a Multi-Quip item where you don't need the whole set this time to look good. Provided you have something red, that is.
The Red Death!
I don't need to go into detail as to what this scarf is based off of, because I already have. I'll just cut right to the chase.
The scarf comes in a variety of of options, each taking up their own different slots! The default mode for the CNS (as it will be called from here on out due to not wanting to attempt to type its full name out) is pretty much exactly like the Nitemare Scarf. The only difference is the color and the flow of the scarf. Furthermore, the coverage area is closer to the face to give your avatar that ninja quality. The second mode is known as Unknown Hero and looks similar to the default mode. The only differance is that the CNS covers 3/4 of the face. Both of these modes take up the Cape Slot and offer their own animation in Towns. The animation is a bit on the goofy side, as it could have been handled better. I mean, it's only two frames long and both switch back and forth too fast for you to appreciate it. They did a better job animating the cyclone for the Wind Security Blanket than they did for the CNS.
The third mode is known as Regal Hero. Here, the CNS splits into two different parts, a headband and a cape that wraps around the neck and upper chest. The cape splits in the back just below the neck and forms two rather stiff looking tails. This takes up the Hat Slot. I'm guessing because of the headband portion. In any event, this is the more formal form of the CNS. Yukatas and Kimonos that match the color make this mode look even better. However, if you play around with clothing and maybe even your hair, you can actually make yourself look like a decent pirate for once. Another good idea for this mode is the Foreign Ambassador look, but I don't have any formal wear that actually looks good with the scarf in this mode. I'm sure someone better stocked can make this visually happen.
Proper Hero is the next mode, which makes me wonder why it is named that given how it looks. The CNS's infinately long material is wraped around your avatar's head, crosses your chest and back, makes a belt, and surprisingly a bow just above the small of your back. This mode takes up the Shirt Slot, so you can't wear anything to cover yourself up when you have this mode on. The only things that I found that works is if you go ahead and just run with the "shirtless warrior" motief. But the bow on the back does kind of look out of place. That bow normally is found on Sumo Wrestlers, which our avatars aren't unless you buy the Sumo Costume. I suppose someone more cultured can explain this to me in the comments area.
The last mode is known as Pretty Heroine. No, not the drug. The female hero. And as the name suggests, you get a big bow out of the CNS that goes in your hair taking up another Hat Slot! Those with long enough hair will be able to appreciate this mode, but only from the back. From the front, it just looks like a big red butterfuly landed on the back side of your head. Girls with Kimonos will enjoy this mode, as well as the ones that own G-LOL dresses and probably even the Dragon Gowns. Boys, on the other hand, probably won't until the school girl uniforms are made unisex. This mode may work with the Brownie set, however, but you are going to have to find a good color scheme to match.
As you can see, the main problem with this silk scarf is the fact that it doesn't match with much short of anyting red and anything Asian in design. If you decide to invest in two of the CNS, then feel free to mix and match with the various modes to create your own unique ninja. It's not needed, but it does add a nice option, which is how Multi-Quips are suppose to be in my opinion. I'm still a bit pissed about the whole Lunar Cowl crap.
PineApple Computers?
NOTE: This item is said to be the first hand-held item that will be featured as a full-sized furniture item in Gaia Housing and Towns. At the time of this critique, the feature was not yet available.
I hate to say this about Gaia's first computer, but it just flat out doesn't look right on your avatars. The only option that looks good is when you hold it out in front of you with the laptop open. Here, you can look like one of the many Labtechs or Elftechs that used to run around Gaia, especially if you have a Labcoat from each. You can also look like the class nerd if you have any of the school uniforms and a pair of glasses. But that's about it.
Carrying the computer just doesn't look like you are carrying it. The computer is positioned too low on the avatar sometimes, making it look like you are holding it at some mysterious handle that isn't present in any other hand position. From both the front and the back, there are some modes that work and some that just don't. Use with caution when using it outside of the open laptop look.
Hopefully this will look better in your Gaia Home. Provided that it fits on the old tables, unlike the Retro TVs. HINT HINT to any mods or admins reading this critique!
Ninjas or Nerds?
This is a no contest question. The CNS wins. It has more options, it looks better, and it's a nice replacement for that expensive Nitemare Scarf most of us are questing for. If you can deal with the fact that everything that works with it has to be either Asian or close to the same tint of the red silk, then I see no reason why you shouldn't have one.
The laptop is only for those that want a challenge in making it look good or for those looking for that little piece of technology to complete their house with. But as far as an avatar accessory? Not worth it.
 Zeek Slider · Thu Feb 23, 2006 @ 12:20pm · 7 Comments |
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