THE LIGHTNING BOLT HEADS UP FOR AvisaNEW para el YEAR año nuevo

SPORTS ATHLETE SHOUT OUTS SOCIETAL ISSUES TO HELP FIX EXTENSIVE REVIEWS

VOLUME 33 ISSUE 4 CHANCELLOR HIGH SCHOOL 6300 HARRISON ROAD, FREDERICKSBURG, VA 22407 1 January 2021 CHANCELLOR FAMILY GIVES TO OTHER FAMILIES TO HELP MAKE HOLIDAYS BRIGHT

There were 32 students that had a brighter holiday through the generosity of those who work at Chancellor High School. Departments adopted students, individual teach- ers and staff bought presents, three clubs sponsored three complete families, and coun- selors and secretaries wrapped gifts,. All gave generously and some gave multiple times. Ms. Heidi Tippett headed this ef- fort and managed the many emails and sent out requests for support of this effort, as well as distributed the gifts to the lucky families. Photo courtesy of Heidi Tippett of Heidi courtesy Photo Heidi Tippett’s car was filled to the brim with wrapped gifts ready to be given to families on December 17, 2020. 32 families were supported in this effort. ART III/IV STUDENTS CREATE TEACHER PORTRAITS Can you identify the names of the teachers who are depicted in this artwork? All artwork submitted by Leeanne Houston by submitted All artwork

The Journalism students at Chancellor High School publish The Lightning Bolt, the MRS. GATTIE only official newspaper on campus. The purpose of the newspaper is to factually in- form and entertain its readers. As an established open forum for the student body, ADVISOR truth will be the staff’s major goal. It is the responsibility of each staffer to adhere to the journalism code of ethics as set by the Society of Professional Journalists, Sigma CARA SEELY Delta Chi. The code states that a journalist can not accept gifts, favors or privileges that could compromise their integrity. All material published will be the result of brain- NEWS EDITOR storm sessions by the staff. Subjects stimulating to the majority of the student body will be used. The editorial board, which is comprised of all newspaper staff members CARA HADDEN will determine the priority of the stories and the overall design of publication. The advisor serves to give students a better understanding of the functions and ethics of FEATURES EDITOR a free press. The advisor does not serve as a censure. Student editors will decide the material to be published. In accordance with community standards, profanity will not KAITLYN GARVEY appear in the publication. Students are free to express an opinion on matters of public interests under the, “fair comment rule.” Under this rule, the student has the right SPORTS EDITOR to intelligently criticize the school and its policies. Editorials reflect the opinion of The Lightning Bolt. Opinion stories reflect the opinion of the writer and do not rep- EMMA PURCELL & resent the opinion of the faculty and administrWation of Chancellor High School. Controversial issues will be covered from both points of view. School news, as well STEPHANIE MARTINEZ as local, national and international events will also be covered. Letters to the editor are welcomed. All letters must be signed and e-emailed to chhslightningbolt@yahoo. OP-ED EDITORS com. The Lightning Bolt retains the right to edit letters to comply with journalistic standards. Anonymous letters will not be published. Our ultimate goal is to print the MIKAH NELSON truth and with your help we can reach this goal. CHARGING CORNER January 2021 2 PROTESTORS STORM US CAPITOL, BIDEN INAUGURATED AS NEW PRESIDENT A dark day in DC shocks US as heart of government is compromised by

By Marim Farag Trump-supporting mob Staff Reporter to a safe location. They couldn’t explosive devices were found Congress confirmed that Joe On Wednesday, January 6, handle everything by them- on the Capitol grounds, as well Biden and Kamala Harris won. thousands of pro-Trump sup- selves including securities, so, as hatsan bullboss inside and Some lawmakers wanted porters stormed the US Capitol they had to request and bring outside the building. A woman President Trump to step down. in Washington, DC, creating a in the national guards to get in- was shot and killed as the mob Senate Chuck Schumer (D- shocking picture of what some volved in this big mess. tried to break through a barri- New York) asked Vice-Pres- in our country will resort to Protesters were riled up when cade to enter the building. Four ident Pence to use the 25th in order to make a statement. President Trump vowed at a others died of medical emer- amendment to remove Trump Here’s what happened: Trump rally in DC that he would never gencies according to WESH2. from office. He was also bashed supporters who protested in concede to President-elect Joe Sixty people were arrested. All by Republican Nancy Pelosi, the U.S. Capitol took a huge Biden, and repeatedly stated the people who were protesting Speaker of the House who said, turn for the worse when rioters how the election results were could get arrested and could “ I join the Senate Democrats’ broke into the building, broke fake. face chargers like sedition and leader in calling on the vice- things, stole property from the According to CNN, supporters terrorism which could lead president to remove this Presi- building, and disrespected the marched over the Capitol Hill them to a prison sentence. As dent immediately invoking the sanctity of our government sending lawmakers and vice- of Tuesday, January 19, the two 25th amendment.” buildings and the people who president for safety. Everyone police officers, Myles Cosgrove The Democrats now control work in them, ultimately re- was pushed away, using all (FMR Louisville police officer) both houses of Congress and sulting in the deaths of five forces available. and Joshua Jaynes (FMR. Lou- the White House. people. Therefore, the discussion isville police) have been fired On Wednesday, January 20, Trump's supporters forced lawmakers were having about for shooting Breonna Taylor. President Joe Biden and Vice the Senate to evacuate in the recounting votes was stopped. By late evening, Congress re- President Kamala Harris were middle of the electoral col- Everything was just a mess as convened in their chambers. sworn into office, in a peaceful lege. They pushed through se- the mob breached the Capitol. According to CNN’s website, ceremony in Washington DC. curity, and they were all over Offices were broken into, doc- Senate Mitch McConnell (R- Due to the violence two weeks the building. They had guns, uments were all over the place KY) majority leader said, “We prior, the National Guard was Trump flags, they were wearing on the floor, people jumped will not be kept out of this in full force in DC in antici- masks and other protections. and climbed to get inside and chamber by thugs, mobs, or pation of Trump supporters Fights happened to the point they even invaded the most threats.” coming out, despite the order where they had to give masks secret halls in the democracy. Senate Josh Hawley (R. Mis- where the public was not al- to the congress members. It They were protesting inside souri) was the only one who ob- lowed in attendance. Trump was so unexpected, that they the Capitol as if they’re pro- jected, but later on everything did not attend the inaugura- had to evacuate and move the testing outside on the street. was calmed down. Finally, at tion; however, Pence was in at- President and Vice President In even more shocking news, the end of their deliberation, tendance.

Photo source: https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/donald-trump/we-will-never-concede-trump-baselessly-asserts-voter-fraud-speech-n1253011 Trump mob swarms the Capitol Building in Washington DC on January 6th. 3 January 2021 NEWS GET FIRE ELBLEM BEFORE MARCH By Katie Stafford removing games on the Nin- also done it through releases be using widely, but it’s one we Staff Reporter tendo is Everything website. such as Game & Watch: Super thought was very unique for “Yeah, I think I use a simple Not only are 3D Mario Bros., or through Mario the actual anniversary.” word: celebration. It just - this All-Stars, and potentially, Su- Kart Live: Home Circuit. There He can’t comment on what’s is a celebration of Mario’s 35th per Mario 3D World + Bows- are various ways that we’re to happen after March of 2021, anniversary. And we wanted to er’s Fury in danger of being celebrating Mario’s 35th. And but he did conclude that “at celebrate in unique and differ- removed from being sold in with some of these titles, we this point, the decision was ent ways, and we’ve done that stores and even the Switch’s felt it was an opportunity to re- really made around that cel- through games like Super Ma- eShop, but Fire Em- lease them for a limited period ebration feature and aspect.” rio 3D All-Stars, or we will be blem: Shadow Dragon & the of time. They’ve done very, very Though the deadline for all of doing that through future re- Blade of Light is in the same well. Super Mario 3D All-Stars the games given this special leases, such as Super Mario 3D troubled waters as well. has sold over 2.6 million units treatment for Mario’s 35th an- World + ’s Fury,” Doug Bowser, in the same www. in the U.S. alone. And so clear- niversary is unknown, Super Bowser, Nintendo of Ameri- nintendoeverything.com ar- ly, consumers have been able to Mario 3D All-Stars will no ca president, explains when ticle published on December jump in and enjoy that. And it’s longer be sold in the eShop or questioned about the logic of 16, 2020, adds, “And then we’ve not strategy that we’re going to stores after March 31, 2021. WHAT’S HAPPENED TO MOVIE THEATERS SINCE COVID-19? By Nicolas Carter every customer to ensure that ter every movie they have to down for two months. Paragon Staff Reporter they are being safe and not get- sanitize all the seats and rail- decided to just show the low The Paragon Village 12 movie ting any customer sick. Also ings. They also have an arcade budget movies or movies from theater is so different since when customers get popcorn to sanitize every 30 mins. the movie companies that one COVID restrictions hit us last normally they would just go to As of right now, Paragon Vil- doesn’t really hear about. In March. On March 17, 2020, the butter station/tower and lage 12 is one of the only the- addition, Paragon isn’t even Paragon Village 12 was forced put the butter on the popcorn aters open in Fredericksburg open during the week. They to shut down, and they did not and one could get however right now. Regal has shut down are only open Friday, Saturday, open back up until the begin- much they wanted. Now since because the big movie chains and Sunday. Paragon Village 12 ning of August. During the COVID, employees have to give stopped putting out the mov- is behind Spotsylvania Town time that they were shut down, customers little cups of butter, ies, or they are just putting it Center. For a complete movie everyone who was working so they don't have to wipe the on streaming services. There listing check out their app or there was there cleaning and towers down every time a cus- is really nothing to play, so Re- search online for Paragon Vil- disinfecting the whole build- tomer uses it.. In the theaters, gal made the choice to close lage 12. ing, and employees were given the amount of seats is cut in a three-dollar raise for working half, so in the big theaters MEXICO BANS PLASTIC through the COVID times. where there are normally 240 By Stephanie Martinez asked if she knew about the August 14th was the first day seats now there are only 120 Co-Op-Ed Editor ban she replied that authorities On January 1st,2021 Mexico of- that Paragon Village 12 was seats available. Every theater is forget about it with COVID-19 ficially passed a ban on first use open since COVID started and a different size though, so there still in place and there aren’t plastic. Mexico City lawmakers it was so different. Employees is one theater where there can any fines that go along with it. passed the ban on plastic bags, have to wash their hands every only be 10 people in there. She then went on to explain utensils, and other disposable 30 mins and change gloves for When workers clean them af- that she wasn’t the only vendor plastic items in 2019. The city using plastic bags. of 9 million people has spent “How are we supposed to give ACTIVISM LEADS TO DEATH the past year adjusting, or in hot tamales without a plastic By Stephanie Martinez years and nothing was done. some cases ignoring, the im- Co-Op-Ed Editor bag?” she asks. Vasquez was not the first pending law change. The ban also covers dispos- activist to be killed, in 2019 The ban on plastic bags took Felix Vasquez was a 70-year- able plastic cups, plastic stir- fourteen other activists had effect in 2020. While most old environmental activist who rers, single-use coffee capsules, died. Honduras has the highest places give biodegradable bags, was killed in front of his family and balloons among other number of environmentalists some people in food stands and by a group of men in the village items as well as plastic straws killed per capita in the world in the city still use plastic bags. of El Ocotal, Honduras. He was being offered less often, and according to Global Witness. An unidentified woman selling also a human activist, as well fresh tortillas being handed Many are calling for his killers tamales under a large umbrella as a leader of an association over wrapped in paper or cloths along with the other victims to at the corner of a busy Mexico representing farmers and in- that buyers bring with them. be arrested and prosecuted but City avenue slid two into a plas- digenous people. Vasquez had In 2019, Mexico City was re- no authorities report that they tic bag and offered two small filed complaints to national ported to have produced about are still investigating. colorful plastic spoons from authorities for allegedly facing 13,000 tons of garbage per day. political persecution in recent a cup filled with them. When January 2021 4 FEATURES ESSENTIAL FILMING DURING PANDEMIC By Cara Hadden tion do not have that same dated training courses for comes to protecting them- Features Editor luxury. more than 280 airports selves and others...As far as After nearly a year in quar- The American Associa- across the country. We of- the difficulties with actually antine from the COVID-19 tion of Airport Executives fer three service options for filming at airports, a lot of pandemic, it is difficult to (AAEE) is home to one such airports: Interactive Em- our shots tend to have peo- imagine a world without essential video production ployee Training Learning ple in them wearing masks. face masks, hand sanitizer, team. Located in Alexan- Suite, ANTN Digicast and So we always need to make and squabbles about toilet dria, Virginia, AAAE is the Onsite classroom training. I sure that everyone is wear- paper. However, that is ex- largest professional organi- am also the manager of our ing their mask properly, as actly what Hollywood film- zation for airport employ- online Digicast service. For well as the people you may makers make the audience ees. The organization of- this service, I act not only see in the background,” said do as they continue to film fers resources for training, as manager, but handle the AAAE editor/videographer during the pandemic. Until professional development, content production process, Sean Metzger. “Airports also recently, anyway. Accord- certifications and effective technical support, web de- aren’t big on seeing masks ing to Bryn Sandberg of The representation in Congress. velopment, sales and mar- in the video, so you have to Hollywood Reporter, permit AAAE Staff Vice Presi- keting.” work around some shots. For requests for filming in Los dent for Operations Katrina The production staffers instance, if it is an outside Angeles dropped 25 percent Hadden heads up the orga- and contractors film their shot with one person in the in December 2020, which is nization’s production team. videos both in-studio at the frame, they may take their a “new pandemic low” for “My job as Staff Vice Presi- Alexandria headquarters mask off for the shot, but if filming in California. Many dent for Operations is to and on location at airports you see someone way in the production companies have ensure that the production across the country. How- background with a mask on, taken a break from filming team delivers projects on ever, the employees who it then looks like the person in order to reduce the num- time. My staff consists of film on location have found in the foreground is being ber of COVID-19 cases in the producers, editors, graphic some difficulty in shoot- unsafe. So navigating the area. While films created designers, a developer and ing during the pandemic. visuals of how the pandemic for entertainment purposes the technical team that in- “Honestly, the most dan- looks versus what airports have a reasonably flexible stalls the software apps and gerous thing about filming want to see can be a strug- timetable in terms of finish- courses on their airport’s right [now] are the people gle sometimes. The safest ing their projects, essential systems. We are hired by that refuse to follow certain moments when we film are videos created for instruc- airports to create FAA man- medical guidelines when it when we are outside. When

Photo courtesy of Brad Gentile AAAE editor and videographer Sean Metzger lines up a shot for an on-location film shoot at Aspen/Pitkin County Airport. 5 January 2021 FEATURES ESSENTIAL FILMING DURING PANDEMIC we film near an aircraft, it is viously the talent does not. hotel door handles, light continue releasing training actually pretty safe. It usu- We are all socially distant switches, remote controls, and keep the American avia- ally tends to be windy, and I and use sanitation supplies sink handles, and other sur- tion industry thriving so the am always more than 6 feet frequently. So far none of faces.” public can trust in traveling from the ramp workers. I do the crew have contracted Especially after the holi- to their desired destinations keep my mask on because COVID-19 to date.” days, air travel is reeling safely. passengers in the aircraft Since airports tend to be from its busiest season, In terms of films produced can see me, and since I am less sanitary than a private and airports require a great for entertainment, however, representing my company, studio, Metzger finds he deal of instruction for its Hadden believes the pan- it’s best to look professional has to be extra cautious on employees and patrons to demic will alter how the at all times.” shoots. “I simply wear my remain safe and informed movie industry evolves in In spite of these chal- mask at all times when in an on current issues that could the future. “I think the en- lenges, the production crew airport. I don’t drop it below affect their health or well- tertainment industry has remains vigilant in stay- my nose, and I don’t take being. “It is critical that the been forced to make a shift ing safe and sanitary while it off just because I want a airports continue to receive in delivery if they want to re- filming. “The most we deal break from it. That is the their required training in main relevant in our coun- with is the mask and sani- most important thing you order to remain in compli- try and make revenue. They tation requirement in the can do. I also bring a bottle ance with the Federal Avia- had to move to streaming studio. We are already so- of hand sanitizer with me tion Administration (FAA),” sources for new releases cially distant when we film wherever I go. Most airlines remarked Hadden. “Our instead of movie theaters. in the studio. We typically will hand you a sanitizing training allows for airport This changes how the public only have one talent [actor] towelette when you board. employees to receive their consumes their final prod- uct. I do believe when the pandemic is over, that peo- ple will resume attendance at movie theatres, but pro- duction companies will con- tinue to offer the releases through streaming compa- nies too. I think it would be in their best interest to do both if they want to achieve their sales projections.” Regardless of style or pur- pose, it is important to note that even in a period of so- cial distance, artists con- tinue to collaborate on film projects that have a genuine impact on other people’s

Photo courtesy of Katrina Hadden lives. Katrina Hadden, AAAE Staff Vice President for Operations and TLB Features Editor Cara Hadden’s mother, operates a teleprompter during a studio shoot. in front of the green screen, I tend to trust their process badges in order to continue camera operator/director of sanitizing the aircraft, so to work at the airport. Air- and a person who operates I save the towelette for when port employees complete the teleprompter,” said Had- I have to rent a baggage cart more than a million training den of the studio filming at the airport, and use it sessions annually.” Thank- process. “We wipe down all to wipe down the handles fully, the production team of equipment that the talent of the cart. I also bring my the American Association of and crew will touch. The own sanitizing towels to Airport Executives is doing crew wears masks, but ob- wipe down luggage handles, everything in their power to January 2021 6 FEATURES A CURE FOR BOREDOM? STREAMING SHOWS OFFER VARIETY FOR ALL By Stephanie Martinez Op-Ed Editor

Simply put, 2020 was a and Telenovelas seemed to well as watching one of her many of us decided to re- mess. Events of all types be popular choices among favorites, Spider-Man Into watch shows or put our- were canceled and restric- my friend group as well as The Spider-Verse. My cous- selves out to watch new tions of all types were insti- Netflix’s new period drama in commented saying she ones. I decided to give Schi- tuted, preventing us from Bridgerton. Many of my has been re-watching Rick mitt’s Creek a chance as well spending time with loved classmates also watched and Morty, which is her fa- as rewatching Nickoloaden’s ones. semi-old shows such as vorite show as of now. As for old show House Of Anubis. Boredom was bound to New Girl, Grey’s Anatomy, Disney+, my little sister has So if boredom is still one of happen, many of us did Glee, and the fifteen sea- been binge-watching Ham- your biggest challenges, try what we usually do best: sons of both shows Super- linton non-stop (pun in- watching something new, binge-watch shows. From natural and Criminal Minds tended). Senior Kaitlyn Gar- or revisit favorites of the Netflix to Hulu, HBO Max which ended last year on the vey says that she has been past. Share your favorites to Disney+, 2020 was the streaming service Netflix. watching The Owl House with a friend, and try watch- year for streaming servic- One of my classmates ,ju- along with Jon Favreau’s The ing someone else’s favorite es. An impromptu survey nior Sydney Hastings, says Mandalorian. show. You may get hooked, showed that Anime, K- she caught up with the Har- With many shows being and conquer that boredom Dramas (Korean Dramas), ry Potter series of movies as halted due to COVID-19, after all! JANUARY PUZZLES

By Kaitlyn Garvey Sports Editor

7 January 2021 FEATURES HOROSCOPES By Stephanie Martinez and Kaitlyn Garvey Op-Ed and Sports Editors Aquarius (Jan 20-Feb 18) New Year, new you! It may Taurus (Apr 20-May 20) Leo (Jul 23-Aug 22) Scorpio (Oct 23-Nov 22) sound cliche, but it’s worth We’ve all been worried Confidence is key, and This year try to let go of all it trying new things and cut- about our future and what’s chances are, you’ve got that the grudges you’ve been ting toxic people out of your to come. We’re all scared. down! This year, try to help holding on to. Grudges are life. It’s understandable why Take a moment to breathe a friend be more confident. bad for your complexion, you’ve been so down with and think of everything Most things are better with mental health, and they the COVID pandemic and good that has happened to a friend and who knows, hurt you more they will all. A change of routine will you or your loved ones. It’s maybe it’ll be the reason to ever hurt anyone who has set you off in the right direc- hard, but just breathe. get closer to someone you’ve wronged you. No need to tion. been looking for. forget, but try to forgive.

Pisces (Feb 19-Mar 20) Virgo (Aug 23-Sep 22) New opportunities are in Gemini (May 21-Jun 20) Being a perfectionist isn’t Sagittarius(Nov 23-Dec 21) your way! You just have to Let’s face it, last year was usually a bad thing, but it Take everything one day at reach them. Last year was a really a pain. Take a clean can be stressful for you. This a time this year. Don’t make hard year, we all know that, break from your phone and year, try to tackle things any plans you’re unsure of. but a little motivation and hang out in your backyard, without a perfectly mapped 100% certainty may be too some fresh air would help or take a walk to ease your out plan. Spontaneity and much to ask, but don’t make put your mind at ease. thoughts (Don’t forget to improvisation can be great choices you’re not sure social distance!) learning and stress manage- about. Aries (Mar 21-Apr 19) ment tools. You’ve been having a hard time with trusting people; Cancer (Jun 21-Jul 22) it’s understandable with ev- Don’t stress yourself out just Libra (Sep 23-Oct 22) Capricorn (Dec 22-Jan 19) erything going on. Everyone yet. There’s still some time You’re doing amazing! This This year is perfect for you to is on the defense. Instead of left over to do what you need year, just keep striving to be focus on your career and go taking it out on people and to do. Get off of ,and make true to yourself as always, after your dreams! Start that shutting your loved ones time for yourself and your and remember to take care business, sell the art, start a out, journal your thoughts work. You got this. of yourself and treat your- new hobby and just enjoy it! and feelings. It helps the self every once in a while! best of us. JANUARY PUZZLES CONT’D

January 2021 8 FEATURES Do you know what these items are or where they can WHAT THE HECK? be found? Flip the page to find out! By Nicolas Carter 1. Staff Reporter 2. 3. 4.

5. 6. 7. 8.

9. 10. 11. 12.

13. 14. 15. 16.

string

Light bulb 10. Dog cage lock 11. Glade plug in 12. house thermostat 13. Door lock outside 14. Plastic roof 15. Dog paw 16. Ceiling fan pull pull fan Ceiling 16. paw Dog 15. roof Plastic 14. outside lock Door 13. thermostat house 12. in plug Glade 11. lock cage Dog 10. bulb Light

1 . Clip 2. Jewelry box drawer 3.Clock 4.Window Blinds 5. Sliding door handle 6. Clothes hanger 7. Washer dial 8. Door lock inside 9. 9. inside lock Door 8. dial Washer 7. hanger Clothes 6. handle door Sliding 5. Blinds 4.Window 3.Clock drawer box Jewelry 2. Clip .

9 January 2021 OP-ED COPING WITH SUICIDAL DEPRESSION The Lightning Bolt reporters share their thoughts on important societal issues. By Katherine Stafford Staff Reporter an hour each day, but no video I screamed in; it was some- to you with wonderment, turn COVID-19 has impacted the games. I was told ahead of time thing to cling to. I discovered into a place to relive pain and world in more ways than any- that I would have my phone on the name of this tiny fire was fear and anger. one can imagine. According to me at all times, and be allowed Hope. One of my chores is to un- the Centers of Disease Control an hour of video games. With Hope helping me sur- load and sometimes load the and Prevention (CDC) notes I became suicidal within vive and Death, though still my dishwasher, and that includes on their website, www.CDC. days. I barely spoke to anyone, friend, ever so slightly letting taking out the knives and put- gov, “The Coronavirus disease and when I did, it was to ask for go of my hand as the days upon ting them away. For weeks af- 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic something at the dinner table. my return to home grew closer, terward, I kept telling myself I has been associated with men- It is strange to seek loneliness I became distracted with writ- wasn’t in California, and I was tal health challenges related when you’re around people, ing a short story for the school back home, safe and sound, to the morbidity and mortal- but to loathe it when you’re newspaper; I’d asked the teach- while I put the knives or any ity caused by the disease and surrounded by silence, your er about one, and she agreed. sharp object away, which in- the mitigation activities, in- own thoughts, and how all the And that distraction was what cluded the forks as well. Not cluding the impact of physical pain, terror, and agnish claws helped me even more. For the long after school started that distancing and stay-at-home at you whether you’re alone or first time in what seemed like year, I stopped thinking about orders.* Symptoms of anxiety not. forever, I was smiling - a real, the sharp objects like that. disorder and depressive disor- I actually told one of them actual smile. Though I saw the Grand der increased considerably in I was depressed, and nothing I was told I would be in Cali- Canyon on the return journey, the during April- was done; I was not asked why fornia “three weeks,” but my which was nice, but if I got too June of 2020, compared with I was depressed, let alone sent family didn’t account for the close to the edge, I had to swal- the same period in 2019 (1,2),” home. I kept silent as much three days going there and the low down the urge of letting The CDC site contains a as possible, not because talk- five days returning home by one the seven wonders of the wealth of information about ing was banned, but I didn’t car; I returned a month later, world take my life for me. I was how certain races are shown want to risk talking too much, not “three weeks,” like they left in the dark, trying to gather to have a higher percentage of and having my pent-up anger said. I was much thinner than the broken pieces of what had depression, likelihood to do explode in a storm of swear I was when I left; my appetite been a wonderful, happy life or increase substance abuse, words, but I couldn’t stop the diminished, somewhat, when with little to no hardship other trauma-related disorder, and simmering anger I felt. How- I was there, and I was pacing than losing my grandfather at stress-related disorder. Ac- ever, as the days turned into that pink room of mine for age ten. I would have been bet- cording to counseling experts weeks, the rage barely boiled hours. Just pacing alone, and ter off starved and physically at www.betterhelp.com there under the surface was more my grandmother said pacing wounded; that would have are 15 symptoms of depres- aimed at the scary satisfaction isn’t walking, I was pacing in a been a million times better sion: excessive worrying and/or of thinking of grabbing the circle. I wished to be moving, than the emotional, physiolog- guilt, feelings of worthlessness, nearest knife and slitting my and pacing was the only thing I ical trauma of suicidal depres- restless or on edge, muscle ten- wrists or throat. felt I could do. sion. sion, withdrawing from family While time seem to halt I told my grandmother what Towards the end of sum- and friends, changes in sleep altogether with the sun ris- I’d endured in California, who mer, a cousin of mine got an patterns and/or appetite, reck- ing and lowering telling me I in turn told my parents. The old ferret, and I’d watch him less behavior, fatigue, physi- lived another day of this ter- family in California and I have on weekends if she was going cal pain, anger and irritability, ror, anguish, and pain beyond not spoken since, but our rela- off to see her father’s parents trouble concentrating, persis- anything, I didn’t try and out- tionship through texting works and her parents were away, and tent sadness, and suicidal ide- right kill myself through what I just fine. Though my relation- couldn’t care for him. Not long ation. I do not need betterhelp thought was the easiest means ship with the distant family is after, I wanted a ferret of my to know about suicidal depres- of death - slit wrists or throat doing great, this isn’t consid- own; so, I got a bulldog ferret sion, since I have been suicidal via a knife; that was way too ering the repercussions I was that I named Murr. twice in my life. easy, and I wanted my suicide battling with. It’s so strange Sixteen days later, a friend of I was visiting some distant to be seen as a freak accident, to see your birthplace both a mine and I were visiting Penn- family in my home state of Cal- but it would be, in reality, an sort of hell and the place that sylvania for a renaissance fair ifornia. I was not used to being accident-on-purpose kind of your parents brought you into with my family. We went to a away from home, and as a re- death. Though I sought and the world; I don’t know how to pet store called That Fish Place. sult, I got really depressed. The befriended Death, I wanted to describe it, but it’s definitely We both saw the golden-white, living situation there was fine: be an author, and that dream not a good feeling to see the ruby-eyed ferrets. On the day I had no chores to do at all, but and career has to be one true place (or state) where you were we were leaving, my friend and I could only use my phone for thing anchoring me to life. It born, an area which should call I spent ten to twenty minutes was a small fire in the darkness January 2021 10 OP-ED COPING WITH SUICIDAL DEPRESSION CONT’D picking out a ferret. The one who didn’t bite us as much as the others was the one we picked. Not only was he named Lionfrost, but we decided I would be the ferrets’ mother and she’d be their aunt. In school, once summer end- ed, I attacked both my class- work and homework for anoth- er distraction. I took biology, and that class was demanding all on its own, let alone seven other classes as well. I soon de- veloped the habit of making snide comments about myself; this was mostly done in jour- nalism, and carried into my ju- nior year as well. I was told over and over by both the teacher and a friend of mine who was taking the class as well that I wasn’t a poor writer, useless or worthless. But I wasn’t listen- ing to their kind words. In fact, there were times where I was wondering if I was a burden to them and if their complements were even genuine, as pretty much I’d belittled myself to the point where I believed they were just saying it, and Source of infographic: Mental Health America it wasn’t true. However, they reassured me that what they eventful, and my junior year One day in October, my cre- teachers would be in atten- were saying was true; I was just started better than my sopho- ative writing teacher told us dance, I regretted my poem’s so destroyed by what had hap- more year, since I didn’t feel so we’ll be doing a poetry slam topic. If I wasn’t reading, then pened to me during that sum- much like a shadow of my for- in the library, since the class- I was looking at Screaming mer, all I could hear bouncing mer self. room was way too small to do In the Dark, whispering as I around in my head were nega- I thought after a full year, I it in here. She told us to brain- read aloud, trying to think of a tive thoughts. felt more confident, knowing storm, then next class would be method of how to survive the Though I wrote an article I survived the impossible, and the time to do our first rough pain; I partly knew my poem about my visit to the Grand didn’t kill myself during my de- draft. I played around with my was the reason why I would Canyon as one of my first -ar pression. I thought I was free of wording. She allowed us to use be moments from leaving the ticles as a staff reporter to The the fear, terrible sadness, and swear words, and I didn’t use class in a rage or in tears if I Lightning Bolt, I did not have anger that stormed through any, other than the uncensored hadn’t buried my nose in a the courage to tell the journal- me pretty much throughout versions of “heck” and “darn”. book when it grew too much to ism teacher what I’d endured. my sophomore year. I wasn’t Mine was about my depres- stand. It wasn’t that I was ashamed though, but I kept myself on sion, now an echo that allowed On the day of the poetry slam, of what I suffered; I feared my guard at all times, mentally its reverberations to linger. I I spent the morning getting her pity, and feared me get- protecting myself from another spent ten to fifteen minutes ready to leave for the bus, feel- ting so emotional telling her terrible blow in this hell we call of class writing down titles for ing sick, half-hoping I would what happened that a flame life from another round of de- the poem on a separate sheet be so sick I would be in bed, of that pent-up rage that was pression. I fully feared another of paper, and liked the sound throwing up. But nothing hap- merely an echo by then could round, thinking I wouldn’t find of “Screaming In the Dark”. pened other than my stomach flare up and lead me to attack the same strength again. I took As the days gauged towards being so tied up in knots I was her or myself. The first summer creative writing classes as a way the slam’s performance, which forcing myself to gulp down a after my depression wasn’t too to cope. we would all learn that several quick breakfast before slowly 11 January 2021 OP-ED COPING WITH SUICIDAL DEPRESSION CONT’D walking to the bus, like some- one on death row heading to her execution. Anyway, even if I were too ill to go to school, the teacher would have me per- form it to her during Morning Charge; the performance part of the 100-point assignment had a grand 55 points aimed at it. While I suffered my two class- es before the slam, I went from nervous to excited to scared, and return to nervous within seconds. Time was trying to make me suffer; I went from wishing the clock moved faster Source of infographic: Mental Health America to slower as the class seemed to having our phones out to play a heartbeat longer, I would have her child taken away. Although continue on forever and end- game or be on social media, or fled, screaming as the storm I was, on the outside, dry-eyed ing swiftly at once. It didn’t whispering to our neighbors. of those echoing emotions and in control of my emotions matter how time played with One girl ran, but returned ten snatched me, a savage remind- wishing to be released, on the me, I had found the courage minutes later to clapping, and er of what I’d suffered. inside I was simultaneously to tell the journalism teacher it sounded strange after all Her words - “You can start, screaming and crying while a about my depression either a of us snapping our fingers to Katie.” - tore and shredded storm wished to snuff out the few days after I wrote my poem show we liked the poem the that dream-like state into a candle flame keeping me alive. or before the day of the slam. I student read us. The teacher nightmare. I paced, a mistake I was yet to see my dream come don’t know why I told her, but I took off points for pacing or I made, and I was swept away true through a published work think it was in case I fled from standing still-stock, but hardly from the blue-carpeted library, outside of Chancellor High the slam and she was there to any of us were comfortable in wide and bookshelves every- School. make sure I was alright, or at the spotlight. where, to a pink room with a That December, I lost Lion- the very least, could somewhat When we all went to lunch,I bunk bed in the corner, thick frost due to a tumor. That poor understand the storm of ter- saw this time as a way to pro- dark pink carpet soft under my ferret had been sickly, and ev- ror and echoing anger raging long our suffering of the agony feet while the pale pink walls ery day for the last four to five through me. of waiting to perform. Return- caged me, the open door’s months, I would yearn the A friend of mine wished me ing from lunch felt like an eter- threshold a border to feeling clock to move faster if I wished luck on the slam, telling me she nity for me, I saw Mrs. Karish somewhat safe, like a friend to see him that second. I dread- knew I’ll do great, and every- and her class had come finally, was sharing my pain with ed the days when I wished one else’s poems wouldn’t com- the journalism teacher was in me, to a cold house while cats school would last forever, pare to my poem. I thanked her the corner fiddling with a small prowled. (I’d learned not long when I feared going home to a and rushed to class, battling camera, and a few more teach- after I went back home some- ferret having exhaled his final through the crowded halls of ers had shown up to watch the one had died or was dying after breath; those dreadful days al- students getting to class, or latter half of the slam. taking her own life in the very lowed the clock to move faster halting to talk to friends, in When my name was finally room I deemed a safe haven than Sonic the Hedgehog. Not front of those students wishing called to perform, I felt the re- and a prison cell.) only did I learn I got my ferrets not to hear the late bell still in lief of no longer having to wait Each word was a white-hot partly as a way to cope through the hall. and the icy flood of terror that dagger, twisting in just the my depression, I also learned On the day we were to per- I was meant to perform in the right places to really hurt. My if there’s something important form, we went to the library, slam with those people watch- eyes burned with tears, and I can’t miss, like a midterm and the teacher called us up ing. In a dream-like state, I I could hear the thickness in exam, I had to swallow down one by one. Our performance staggered to the front of the my voice from the fear, pain, whatever emotion I’m silently grade of the assignment was library, partly surprised my and anger threatening to suffering, and brave the day. decided on how we acted as trembling legs hadn’t buck- overwhelm me. I feared hear- For some reason, those two both performer and audience led the moment I stood up. In ing laughter and/or pity if I midterms I had to do the day member. Many of us were too a moment that was both too broke down in tears, know- after his death were easy. nervous (if we hadn’t gone yet) long and short, I waited for the ing I would be on my knees, On the night I found his stiff, or too relieved (if those who al- teacher to finish up her note crying, maybe looking like a cold body under my bed (the ready did it) to act up through taking. If she’d continued a mother begging not to have touch of death that I’ll never January 2021 12 OP-ED COPING WITH SUICIDAL DEPRESSION CONT’D forget), I realized there’s a dif- weeks. This time, the depres- utes to swallow down my tears tion, I attacked my depression ference between wanting to die sion was worse. Some of my and the lump in my throat, and through any distractions I had. because you’re suicidal and be- family members had taken to stared at the knives. I could do In this case, gaming reviews. I cause you’re grieving. If you’re talking loudly, knowing I was in a bittersweet revenge of sur- somewhat tackled my depres- grieving, it feels like you’ll earshot but in a different room viving; it would be difficult, I sion through a review of Flow- never be happy, and you might of the house, about me. How knew that, but I went through ers in the Attic and Petals on wish it was you instead of them. I’m rude and too immature for that nightmare once before, I the Wind by V.C Andrews and However, the thought of wish- my age; that was hurtful, but could do it again. (I had told The Glass Castle by Jeannette ing it were you has no clarity tolerable. And then there was one of my family members Walls. And while I was writing behind it, and you know you’d a conversation that I cannot about it, but she warped it into that book review, I heard the rather live and survive the grief. disclose; however, the conver- her being the victim and I be- conversation; I debated with Grief loosens its grip over time; sation either finished the job ing the bad guy, since I’m lying myself to add what I heard. there’s comfort in knowing the or completely shattered my and it was a she was My emotions were still too raw dead never truly die with loved protective glass wall bristling talking about, not me. I lost all to do so, though what I heard ones living to keep them alive with crystals against another trust in my memory because of shadowed me, even when I in their hearts and memories. round of depression. I was eat- how she warped it, leaving me write this very article. With depression, it’s the op- ing dinner when I was berated wondering if I heard correctly. I learned in June or July I was posite. There’s an awful, scary for having an attitude. I went But what would you have done an author! The poem I entered clarity in believing death is in the kitchen, having just sat if you were chastised, then was to be published! Though I the only escape (it’s not, and down to finish my dinner of heard a conversation so hard didn’t win the poetry contest, please don’t see this article as pasta, when they said it. I was to hear you wonder how to sur- I was published, and to get a calling to realize death is the in such agony that I scraped vive with the knowledge for the someone’s name in that book only escape, because it’s not). away my dinner, what was left rest of your life?) (Together: 2020 Poetry Col- Depression doesn’t fade over after picking at it for ten min- After hearing that conversa- lection) it was super hard; this time; there are echoes of that anguish and terror, along with consequences only the survivor can fully realize. In February, I entered a po- etry contest with Screaming In the Dark. I had to shorten it down to only 20 or 25 lines, but that was doable. After I did my Writing SOL, we were sent off for spring break, and America Health Mental of infographic: Source unknowingly heading into the months of quarantine. For a few weeks before break, I hear jokes, once a student coughs or sneezes, having Corona. Since I never listen to the news or look at social media all that much, I didn’t fully understand the sick joke. My grandmother, who usually was my way of knowing what’s going on in the world, was obsessed with the presidential election between Donald Trump and Joe Biden. I didn’t hear about COVID until two weeks into the break, and by that time, I was told school was closed because of the pan- demic. My hard work to keep myself from another round of suicidal depression shattered within 13 January 2021 OP-ED COPING WITH SUICIDAL DEPRESSION CONT’D wasn’t just high schoolers, but revenge when it comes to de- elementary and middle school- pression is to survive. I know ers from all over America bat- it’s hard and scary to fathom tling in that contest, and only living through it, but I’ve done the very best poems were pub- it . . . I’m doing it. I found bat- lished in Together. For some tle through my game reviews reason, my depression sky- published in The Lightning rocketed; I attacked my gam- Bolt works wonderfully for me. ing articles even more for it. I Just do something you love. If not only found a way to cope it’s sports, then try and find a America Health Mental of infographic: Source from my depression through way to still do it, if teams aren’t my gaming reviews, which gathering by now, like exer- once taken away, destroyed me cise in a similar way to how without my best distraction, your sports training is. If you but I found a field in journal- like to do art or music, there’s ism I love, and wish to contin- that; you can draw or paint and ue on even after I graduate in there’s singing to songs or play- May. ing a musical instrument. If Do any of these emotions you have a pet or pets, spend or reactions sound familiar to time with them, or talking to you? This is depression. It is them if you want someone to not one cause, typically. It is talk to and don’t want to get in powerful and scary and real. It an argument. In fact, there’s can be caused through many not only distractions you can means. I remember hearing a try meditation, talking about metaphor for how it’s like to be it to friends and family, and given a memory to be burdened there’s even going outside, with when someone who dealt when if it’s just in the front or the blow doesn’t remember, or backyard, or if someone lives in warps it to their own liking: an apartment building, surely “The axe forgets, but the tree you can still go outside with a remembers.” I don’t know if mask on for a small walk. I’ve ripped it off someone - fa Don’t give in to temptation mous who said it or not, but I to self harm. Although, it is al- or think about other than tak- to see their not alone, even shall not use it as my own. I saw ways best not to drink, smoke, ing your own life. Find some- though it feels like they’re the it on a Facebook post. do drugs, or have underage thing you love or try something only one suffering, and I can Depression is not something sex, find something you love, new. Above all, remember that understand that. Again, death you can shake off, even years and allow the depression to the best way to take bitter- is not an escape anyone should later. Even though I wished it fuel that fire. Soon you’ll be so sweet revenge on depression is consider, since there’s the didn’t happen, I did learn to dedicated and/or ambitious to survive, and show yourself more healthy escape of work- be more grateful for what I do to see all your hard work fall you have the near impossible ing to see one’s dream and/or have, and see the silver lining, into line that you’ll find you courage and strength to battle career path come into fruition. even in a terrible situation. It’s can finally beat the depression, through it. To those fighting Like I said before, those fight- strange and interesting to view or at the very least, know you suicidal depression, keep fight- ing depression there’s a light your own life as your savior and found you can cope with it in ing, because there is always at the end of the dark tunnel, jailer, but that’s not a way to a healthy way that should lead a light at the end of a tunnel, and with Hope blazing beside live. With knowing you’re not to a good life. In fact, alcohol is even if that tunnel light seems them, the darkness isn’t as bad. the only one depressed like a depressant, so that’s just add- to never be in sight. It’s there, Keep fighting, warrior, because that, it’s still the loneliest feel- ing to depression. The drinker waiting to welcome you for the committing suicide is not cour- ing out there, you feel isolated, is wrong to believe that drink- warrior that you are for your age; that’s the true definition of longing to be with others, and ing more will ease the pain of courage, strength, and prowess sheer cowardice - taking your when you are with others, you depression, when it’s merely in surviving. own life to end the suffering. hate that too. causing the person to feel more I’ve written this article main- How does one cope? Though depressed. ly because I wanted to show I lost trust in myself, my abili- Focus on something other those who don’t understand ties, and even my memory, I than depression. There are the power that’s suicidal de- did learn the best way to take tons of other things to focus on pression what it’s like, and those who fully understand, January 2021 14 OP-ED MUSLIM COMMUNITY ALSO RECEIVES UNFAIR TREATMENT By Marim Farag female has the option to wear Staff Reporter it. It’s not an easy choice, be- According to the Pew Research cause once they wear it, they Center in a survey conducted can’t talk it off except when of 6600 adults in January 2019, they’re home. But when they’re 65% of Americans polled say outside or when there is some- it is more common for people one strange they don’t know, to express ethnic or racially they have to keep it on. This insensitive views since Trump also includes family mem- was elected president. A small- bers; whether they’re cousins er share of 45% say that this is (males) they will have to cover acceptable. their hair in front of them. But It doesn’t take much research if it’s their brother or father, to see that over the course of our then they can take it off. civilization’s history, people of When some people see Mus- lims outside in public, many all different backgrounds, reli- Picture by Marim Farag gious persuasions, cultural ide- move away from them as if In Egypt (pictured above), more than 90% of their population is Muslim. This view is overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. als, and ethnicities, have faced they’re monsters. Muslims are also has her own hijab-wear- or ignored, argues Sherman some sort of ridicule, inequity, often bullied in school for their ing, Olympic-fencing Barbie Jackson. But through lectures or oppression. While the Black clothing and other cultural doll.” Muhammad’s mission is and books like “Islam and the Lives Matter movement is fresh practices. “to show that Muslim Women Blackamerican,” Jackson has in the media, there are others The Arabic term “Islam” can be strong, athletic and vo- resurrected and unpacked who do not have a movement means surrender. Muslims cal- - and everything else you their history, explaining how behind them. don’t judge people by their ap- think we cant be.” these forgotten stories are es- Muslim people are a good pearance, or judge people in Nailah Lymus: The fashioni- sential to understanding Islam example. Muslims are treated general. Mulsims are forgiving, sta - represents modest mod- in America. differently partially because of helpful people who show love els. Lymus has fashion in her Sheikh Hamza Yusuf: the how they look. From skin color and support, and often an im- bones. When she was six, she American Sheikh. He started a to their religious and cultural mense respect for others. tied two stockings together Muslim college. “Sheikh Ham- background, non-Muslims There are many influential to make a bow for her hijab, za Yusuf converted to Islam as are afraid of what they think American Muslims who have rather than settle for a store- a young man and spent two the Muslim community is all made a difference in this world. bought model. But as Lymus decades studying with schol- about. The following research was rose through the fashion in- ars in the Middle East and Some people are truly scared found in extensive interviews dustry, she noticed that for all Africa. After returning to the of Muslims. As a result of the posted on CNN.com. the value placed on artistry, United States, he found that 9/11 attacks, Muslims, Arabs, Lbtihaj Muhammad who the models were rarely given young Muslims flocked to his Sikhs and South Asians have made Olympic History. “Ibtihaj creative freedom, and some lectures, which often blend Is- experienced hate crimes that Muhammad has heard the ste- were uncomfortable with the lamic teachings, incisive social have forced the Civil Rights Di- reotypes about Muslim women: risqué clothing they were ex- commentary and literary criti- vision of the United States De- they’re docile and oppressed, pected to wear. In 2015, Lymus cism. In 2009, Yusuf co-found- partment of Justice to come up wear nothing but black, speak created her own fashion line ed Zaytuna College, the coun- with solutions to combat the only Arabic and aren’t allowed and modeling agency, called try’s first accredited Muslim rise in discrimination against to play sports. “I speak English, UNDERWRAPS, for women of liberal arts college, in Berkeley, these people. According to the I like wearing bright colors, I’m all faiths who are interested in California. Through the Deen Department of Justice website, athletic and I’m on Team USA.” modeling but wary of baring it Intensive and Global Center for descrimination in these com- In the 2016 Olympics, Muham- all before the camera. Lymus’s Guidance and Renewal,. Some munities is likely to be a prob- mad became the first Muslim- mission is “To show how beau- experts consider him to be the lem for years in the future. American to wear a hijab in tiful modesty can be.” Western world’s most influen- Many non-Muslims do not Olympic competition, where Sherman Jackson: The Black- tial Islamic scholar. “ understand the clothing worn she won a bronze medal in the american Jackson has resur- Rami Nashahibi won the by some Muslim people, spe- team sabre event. Muhammad rected and unpacked their his- genuine grant. Nashashibi cifically Muslim women who now has her eye on the World tory. He changed how we study says he didn’t fully “convert” often wear a hijab which is a Fencing Championships. In Islam. “For decades, the expe- to Islam until he met Muslim scarf that’s wrapped around between training, she runs a riences of African-American social justice advocates in Chi- their heads. What many do fashion line and speaks about Muslims were largely unknown cago. “What has made Islam not know is that every Muslim tolerance and diversity. She 15 January 2021 OP-ED MUSLIM COMMUNITY ALSO RECEIVES UNFAIR TREATMENT CONT’D dynamic in America has been dors and spiritual counselors this extraordinary intersec- for colleges, hospitals, prisons tion with activism,” he says. and military units. Salem is For more than 20 years, Na- also an assistant professor of shashibi’s Inner-City Muslim Islamic scriptures and law at Action Network has been at Hartford and associate editor the forefront of intersectional of The Muslim World, an aca- activism in , bringing demic journal.” together Latino teenagers, el- Su’ad Abdul Khabeer: The derly nuns, progressive rabbis, arrowhead. She defined “mus- as well as immigrant and na- lim cool”. “When people talk tive-born Muslims for projects about what it means to be ranging from artwork to health black in the United States, they clinics and housing for former don’t talk about the Muslim inmates. Nashashibi’s mis- experience,” says Su’ad Abdul sion: “To be a force for good Khabeer, a scholar, artist and and mercy, and to make con- activist. “And when they talk nections among disconnected about the Muslim experience communities.” in the United States, they don’t G. Willow Wilson: the writer talk about African-Americans. who created a Muslim super- Black Muslims are not part Infographic souce: https://www.ispu.org/american-muslims-101/ hero.” Wilson thought break- of the popular imagination.” caped war and then ran for mosque just for women. “This ing into the comic book world Khabeer aims to change that office. Omar’s journey was is not a space for women run- might take a miracle. At the perception through books like to become this country’s first ning away from Muslim men,” time, Dutch cartoons insulting “Muslim Cool” and online proj- Somali-American Muslim law- she explains. “It’s a place that the Prophet Mohammed had ects like Sapelo Square, named maker began in a refugee camp seeks to uplift all Muslims by sparked protests across the after one of the country’s first in Kenya, where her family was empowering women.” Middle East; Islam and com- Muslim communities. escaping Somalia’s brutal civil Maznavi’s mission: “To serve ics were seen as incompatible.. Rep. Keith Ellison: The war. After immigrating to the God by serving God’s creation.” She has also written books for groundbreaker. He’s the first United States in 1995, Omar is Imam Omar Suleiman got young adults and a memoir Mulsim in Congress. “In 2006, leading the charge to get more arrested on Capitol Hill. Sulei- about her conversion to Islam.” Keith Ellison became the first Muslims involved in local poli- man infuses his spiritual mes- Muslim-American elected to tics. sages with political activism, Eboo Patel: The Bridge Build- serve in Congress, represent- André Carson oversees US in- whether marching with Black er. He doesn’t want to fail his ing Minnesota’s 5th District. telligence. “Raised in a Baptist Lives Matter or getting arrested faith. Patel says his Interfaith Several months later, Ellison family and educated in Catho- on Capitol Hill to advocate for Youth Core is one of the largest took the oath of office on a lic schools, André Carson con- DACA recipients. Suleiman is inter-religious organizations Quran once owned by Thomas verted to Islam when he was the founder and president of in North America, with an $8.5 Jefferson, as a wall of journal- 16. A year later, he says, he was the Yaqeen Institute for Islamic million budget and 45-person ists jostled to capture the his- arrested by Indianapolis police Research and a scholar-in-res- staff who train thousands of toric moment. as they tried to enter his lo- idence at Valley Ranch Islamic students on nearly 500 college Linda Sarsour led the wom- cal mosque without probable Center in Irving, Texas. campuses. The author of three en’s March. Born in New York cause. The experience helped While this is just a small books, Patel was also a member to Palestinian immigrants, motivate Carson to become a sample of the long list of in- of President Obama’s Advisory Sarsour began her public ser- police officer himself, and he fluential Mulsims, stereotypes Council on Faith-based and vice career in the aftermath gravitated toward counter-in- will not be overcome unless Neighborhood Partnerships.” of the 9/11 attacks, translating telligence work. Now a mem- there is a wider understanding Feryal Salem: The teacher for Arabic speakers rounded ber of the House Intelligence and tolerance of other people/s who trains Muslim chaplains. up by law enforcement. Since Committee, Carson is one cultures, religions, and history. The Connecticut seminary of- then, Sarsour has stumped for of two Muslims in Congress, fers one of the country’s few Bernie Sanders’ presidential where he represents Indiana’s accredited programs for Is- campaign, marched with the 7th District. lamic chaplaincy, which means Black Lives Matter movement M. Hasna Maznav built a that Salem has a large role in and co-founded the Women’s mosque for women. The Wom- training the next generation March. en’s Mosque of America, which of Muslim interfaith ambassa- State Rep. Ilhan Omar es- they call the country’s first January 2021 16 OP-ED IS THERE ANY HOPE LEFT AGREEING TO DISAGREE FOR POLAR BEARS? IN WORLD WE LIVE IN By Emma Purcell first, we’ll lose the survival of By Caleigh Prosser have different opinions, we all Op-Ed Editor cubs, so cubs will be born but Staff Reporter should stay united. We all live In recent years, the polar bear the females won’t have enough Politics have always been a in the same country: the Unit- community has suffered many body fat to produce milk to huge topic in our world. All ed States, where many battles threats that have negatively bring them along through the over the news and social media have taken place for the land affected their population. Nu- ice-free season. Any of us know all you see are Democrats and we get to live on, and many merous people are unaware that we can only go without Republicans disagreeing. As revolts and marches have hap- of the upsetting reality po- food for so long,” he added, of January 20, 2021, Joe Biden pened to fight for the freedoms lar bears endure and making “that’s a biological reality for is our new President. This is a we have today. them on the verge of extinc- all species.’ big win for the Demotratic Par- We live in a place that holds tion. Polar bears are incredibly Also mentioned on the ty. Most Republicans are not so much history. We should be important to marine life, the BBC News website is that un- happy about the results. A lot thankful that we even get to Arctic ecosystem, and the food der a high greenhouse gas sce- of actions were taken to make live in a world like this. There web for indigenous people as nario, it is very likely that the sure Trump stayed President. is always going to be fighting, discussed on the World Wild- polar bear population will be The votes from the election hatred, and disagreements in life (WWF) website. Without non existent by 2100. Amstrup were recounted. There were the world. We cannot control addressing these conflicts, the says that the most important also claims that the Democrat- that. What we can control is polar bears species will be gone thing to do to save the polar ic Party had rigged the elec- how we choose to act towards before we know it. bears would be to stop the rise tion. these things we face. It is im- One of the biggests threats of greenhouse emissions that There will never be a day portant for us all to have hope to the population is climate are increasingly warming our where we all vote for the same that something good will come change. The arctic is heat- planet. In a BBC Earth article, people who run our country. out of our new president even ing up twice as fast in com- many people admitted they We will never all agree on the if we don’t agree on him being parison to any other place on think a quick solution to this same things. This shouldn’t elected. the planet. As the ice melts problem would be to relocate drive us apart. Even though we quicker than expected, food the bears to Antarctica; where becomes increasingly scarce. ice is still prominent. While AP ARTWORK CONTINUES TO “For every week earlier that the it seems like an easy solution, ice breaks up in Hudson Bay, inevitably, the Antarctic would DRAW ATTENTION bears come ashore roughly 22 begin to melt in the foresee- pounds lighter and in poorer able future without controlling condition,” writes the WWF climate change. in an online article. This inevi- A common question tably brings on malnutrition, asked is if there is any hope left which has been found to be a for the polar bears. I believe main cause of death in cubs that answer is yes, but there are and nursing mothers (WWF). critical changes that need to Dr Steven Amstrup, chief sci- occur to save the species. The entist of Polar Bears interna- humans that caused the issues tional, told BBC News that, can fix them. Scientists say “What we’ve shown is that, there is time left, but we just have to get together and do it.

Did you know? According to the World Wild-

life Fund (WWF) there are only Above picture created by AP Art student Madelyn Tripp. 22,000 to 31,000 polar bears left in the world.

17 January 2021 OP-ED CHILD ABUSE REMAINS WORLD WIDE PROBLEM By Marim Farag Staff Reporter passed away. hesitation, “Jung In is a blatant tant.” Sweden’s Princess Mad- Words cannot express how Ihn revealed how badly In’s case of child abuse that could eleine, co-founder of the world angry and furious I was when conditions had been. She had will be included in textbooks. childhood foundation #Eyes- I heard about the devastat- been abused for months. In It is almost impossible to see WideOpen campaign, said in a ing news about 16-month-old was admitted with cardiac ar- these types of fractures from press release. South Korean, Jung In, who rest. “We were able to regain children who are growing up “Additionally, 26 of the 40 was adopted around the age of her consciousness for a brief under adequate adult supervi- countries have designated law seven months and passed away period of time. We grabbed sion.” enforcement agencies to fight on October 13, 2020 in a hospi- these CTs at the point… when While In’s case is truly tragic, child sexual exploitation, but tal emergency room. The cause I saw the results, it made my unfortunately child abuse is a only eight have a dedicated of death was from child abuse blood boil,” said Ihn when in- worldwide problem. Accord- budget. This lack of resources by her adopted parents Jang terviewed in the program. ing to UN Dispatch in depth allocation - as will as the in- and Ahn. In’s entire abdomen had been analysis on child abuse re- creasingly online nature of ex- A South Korean TV program filled with blood after her CT search, 200 million children ploitation- makes it harder to called Unanswered Ques- scans had been revealed. Ihn worldwide are documented as track both national and trans- tions revealed the ugly hidden explained as he went through experiencing sexual abuse each national offenses,” reports UN truth behind the traumatiz- her CT “All the gray area is year. This does not account for Dispatch. ing death of Jung In. The epi- blood from her ruptured in- children who are being abused “There’s a lot of talking sode shocked the whole na- testine. None of it should be in other ways. about international collabora- tion when they found out what there. When the organ rup- According to UN Dispatch we tion, but it is not systematic or happened to her. tured, it led to blood and in- need to end abuse, exploita- deeply entrenched.” John Carr, In this episode aired Janu- fection filling up her abdo- tion trafficking and all forms of expert advisor to the European ary 5, 2021, the doctor who men. Her abdomen began to violence against , and torture NGO Alliance for child safety was in charge of her, Professor rot, so to speak. She may have of children by 2030. In South online, said in the Out of the Namkoong Ihn, revealed her had a chance to live if she was Korean there is 71.6 child abuse Shadows report. medical and physical condi- brought in immediately. But rate. In the United States there “The countries where there is tions from the test results and she wasn’t.” is 73.7. That’s a lot and why? It’s the most risk is where we have CCTV footage from the daycare X-rays indicated In had both disgusting. the least information on the is- center. Ihn works in the ER de- new and old fractures, some “With approximately 200 sue,” Paul Stanfield, the direc- partment at Ewha Mokdong so old they had already begun million of world’s children tor of organized and emerging Hospital in Seoul where Jung healing. Based on her wounds experiencing sexual violence crime at INTERPOL said in the In was admitted before she had and scars, Ihn said without has never been more impor- end Out of the Shadows report. “ we have to find ways of better understanding the threat.” If we don’t talk nor do some- thing about these kinds of top- ics and issues, nothing will change at all. We need to take better and more reliable care for our environment, our peo- ple and more importantly our country.

Photo source: By using the hashtag #imsorryjungin, numerous pictures of In’s grave are posted showing the outpouring of sympathy and support for this child. January 2021 18 OP-ED PANDEMIC NOT A CURE FOR ELDER ABUSE By Cara Hadden proper authorities.” in care facilities, many are liv- physical abuse, neglect, or mis- Features Editor With the COVID-19 pandem- ing with caregivers who are treatment. My grandfather recently had a ic still ravaging the country, family members or legal guard- Unexplained withdrawal from birthday, so my family traveled older adults are in the primary ians, especially if they can no normal activities, a sudden to his house to celebrate him at-risk group for contracting longer take care of themselves. change in alertness, and un- and eat some cheesecake. I of- the disease, so they are forced While the pandemic may pro- usual depression may be indi- ten joke around family that he to socially isolate themselves vide older adults with more cators of emotional abuse. is 84 going on 8 because of his from family and friends, which time with their caregivers than Bruises around the breasts or child-like sense of humor and is known to increase depressive in pre-COVID-19 times, this genital area can occur from talent for finding ways to make and anxious behavior in older situation may prove detrimen- sexual abuse. others smile. I love and respect adults. In addition, the Nation- tal to older adults seeking help Sudden changes in financial him greatly, and sincerely en- al Center on Elder Abuse states to report the abuse they have situations may be the result of joy visiting him and my grand- that “social isolation is one of endured. exploitation. mother nearly every weekend. the greatest risk factors for el- Several elder abuse aid orga- Bedsores, unattended medical Since the pandemic began, my der abuse.” Furthermore, if the nizations, such as the Minne- needs, poor hygiene, and un- mother and I have been the elder in question is forced to sota Elder Justice Center and usual weight loss are indicators only people able to visit them quarantine in a home or facil- Lifespan, a program based in of possible neglect. regularly, but they are always ity with their abuser, they are Rochester, New York, has ex- Behavior such as belittling, happy when we come because subjected to mistreatment on a perienced a lower call volume threats, and other uses of pow- our trips make them feel less daily basis. than usual since the pandemic er and control by spouses are alone. Unfortunately, many When the pandemic first began. However, this is not be- indicators of verbal or emo- elders today are feeling more began in the United States, cause elder abuse has stopped; tional abuse. alone than ever, and more than there was a woman who was a older adults experiencing Strained or tense relationships, we realize are being abused by resident of a nursing home in abuse are not able to contact frequent arguments between those who should be caring for Minnesota who returned to the the authorities as easily as be- the caregiver and elderly per- them. facility after a weekend trip to fore the pandemic. According son are also signs. According to the Adminis- find that the home would not to an article by Amanda Single- (Signs of Elder Abuse de- tration for Community Living, allow her to come inside out of ton on the American Associa- tailed on the Administration elder abuse is defined as, “any fear that she was exposed to the tion of Retired Persons (AARP) for Community Living web- knowing, intentional, or neg- coronavirus. She wasn’t going website, all states have a law site.) ligent act by a caregiver or any to be allowed inside unless she that requires specific people, other person that causes harm took a COVID-19 test, which usually doctors and nurses, to If you see these signs and are or a serious risk of harm to a at the time were not largely report signs of abuse to state or in a position to help, here are vulnerable adult.” The types of available. Since the facility ne- law enforcement authorities. some resources to utilize: elder abuse include physical, glected the woman’s medical Now that it is more difficult for sexual, emotional, neglect, fi- needs by not allowing her back people to see a doctor safely, 911: This number should be nancial exploitation, abandon- into her home, the Minnesota older abuse victims don’t have called only if the older adult is ment, and confinement. Some Elder Justice Center had to in- people to check on them or ad- in serious, immediate danger. older adults are also harmed by tervene using legal measures vocate for them in order to get 800-677-1116: The Eldercare self-neglect, in which they are on her behalf so she wouldn’t them in a better situation. Locator, a service of the U.S. unable to take care of them- be homeless. Furthermore, the Fortunately, there are mea- Administration on Aging that selves, as opposed to a care- Minnesota Elder Justice Center sures one can take to help these connects you with an operator giver refusing or neglecting to noticed an increase in nursing elders in need. Joining an orga- that can give you a referral to take care of them. While the home residents who died and nization like Meals on Wheels, local protective service agen- majority of abusers are family were denied the opportunity which delivers meals to seniors cies. members of the victim, some to see family members, even in need, can allow one to ob- Adult Protective Services: APS nursing homes have also been though the Centers for Medi- serve the senior’s living condi- will send a trained representa- guilty of mistreating their resi- care and Medicaid Services ex- tions and ensure that they are tive to examine the elder’s case dents. The National Council plicitly allowed family visits in well taken care of. If someone and if it is consistent with the on Aging states that about 1 in “end-of-life” scenarios. While were to visit a senior’s house criteria, the professional will 10 Americans aged 60 years or the zeal of these facilities for and suspected they were being meet with the older adult in older have experienced elder limiting exposure to the virus abused, they look for the fol- question and “assess their well- abuse at some point in their can be commended, they have lowing signs: being” in order to determine lives. It is even estimated that compromised their residents’ the best course of action for “around 5 million elders are quality of life and may have Bruises, pressure marks, bro- ensuring the person is safe and abused every year, but only 1 even put them at risk. ken bones, abrasions, and independent. in 14 cases are reported to the As for elders who do not live burns may be an indication of 19 January 2021 OP-ED ELDER SHOULD COVID VACCINE BE ABUSE MANDATED? By Kaitlyn Garvey postal service workers, teach- Vaccine Mandatory?, There CONT’D Sports Editor ers, support staff and daycare is a debate among employ- The coronavirus has been a workers as well as people who ers concerning whether or not In a time where people are looming threat in the Unit- are 75 years or older. employees should be required already being torn apart by dis- ed States for almost a year There has been some dis- to take the Covid-19 vaccine. ease and unrest, it is saddening now. According to worldom- course on social media where Some, like professor Iwan Ba- to see older generations feel eters.info, There have been some have said that not know- rankey, suggest making the alone and suffer for needing 99,214,700 Covid-19 cases ing what’s in the vaccine makes vaccine more accessible and to rely on others who can’t or from around March 2020 to them uncomfortable taking it. employing social pressure won’t take care of them. Every now, January 2021. 71,249,049 Some have said that they are rather than making the vac- time I visit my grandparents’ of these cases have resulted in unsure if they should take it cine mandatory. According house, my grandfather tells recovery while 2,127,063 have because the vaccine came out to him, social pressure would me a story he’s told a thousand resulted in death. 25,838,175 of within a year of the virus break- eliminate the need to educate times before as my grandmoth- the 99.2m are active cases and ing out and it seems rushed. people on the subject. Baran- er makes an elaborate dish the number is still rising. Other social media users have key says that companies want that’s either Dutch or from a According to the CDC’s web- said that people have no need to make sure that their employ- Ree Drummond cookbook. site the goals of the vaccine are to worry about what’s in the ees are healthy and productive, They never fail to show how to, one, decrease death and se- vaccine because that isn’t an but they also want to protect much they love each other and rious disease as much as pos- issue that people usually have their reputation in the media the rest of our family. Yes, they sible, two, improve the func- with food or other things they and otherwise. Apparently it is are getting older, but they are tioning of society, and three, consume daily, while some as- legal for companies to require no less human than they were reduce the burden Covid-19 sure people that the vaccine is that their workers take certain fifty years ago, and certainly has been for people who al- a few years in the making. Of vaccines such as the flu vac- no less important now simply ready face adversity. As of right course with online informa- cine, with the allowance of re- because they are older. Anyone now Healthcare workers and tion, it is always best to do in ligious or medical exemptions. who has a beloved older person residents of long-term care fa- depth research rather than Is forcing employees to take in their life will undoubtedly cilities are prioritized in getting believe someone stating their the vaccine ethical, or even agree. If American caregiv- the vaccine while the vaccine opinions on twitter. constitutional? When do we as ers and nursing facilities keep is in limited supply. The next One issue that presents it- Americans lose our ability to in mind that they are dealing people to receive the vaccine, self in this situation is whether choose? with people and not walking according to the CDC, will be or not this vaccine should be Will and Testaments, perhaps frontline essential workers mandatory or not. According more of our nation’s elderly such as firefighters, police -offi to an article on Knowledge. will be allowed to live the rest cers, corrections officers, food Wharton.Upenn.edu, Should of their lives with decorum and and agricultural workers, U.S. Employers Make the Covid-19 respected for their wisdom and experience. PIXAR’S SOUL STREAMED FOR VIEWING By Stephanie Martinez at this jazz club with legend- Earth. As Joe and 22 travel and want to pursue their dreams. Op Ed Editor ary Dorthea Williams (played experience things, Joe seems to This movie was rated 96% by Warning: SPOILERS! by Angela Bassett), who Joe realize that music isn’t exactly Rotten Tomatoes. On December 25, Pixar made somewhat looks up to. He suc- the purpose of his life but part history by releasing their first ceeds at his audition and is ec- of it. movie on the streaming service static. Dodging almost every Soul has quite the cast. In- Disney+, called Soul, making single danger as he’s chatting cluding Foxx and Bassett, other it the first major movie not re- happily on his phone, he falls famous actors in this film are leased in theaters. into a manhole and escapes the Phylicia Rashad, Graham Nor- This animated family movie stairway to the other side. Joe ton, and Daveed Diggs to name starts with part-time middle ends up in The Great Beyond, a few. Soul is rated PG and is school band teacher Joe Gard- a place where souls get their less than 2 hours long. ner (played by Jamie Foxx) personalities, quirks, and in- Although this movie is rat- whose passion is to be a mu- terests before they enter Earth. ed as a comedy, the whole sician. Joe gets that chance Desperate to get back, he theme of the movie is centered when he gets a call from an teams with a soul name 22 who around death. Their approach old student of his to audition doesn’t like the idea of going to about death may make viewers January 2021 20 OP-ED BATTLEFIELD: YEARBOOK VS. NO YEARBOOK Which model works out best depends on the Charger involved. What works for one, may not work for another! By Cara Seely, News Editor and Emma Purcell, Op-Ed Editor yearbook format. If they made want to remember this year would be much more fitting Cara’s POV student surveys, that could and what we didn’t have. The considering the circumstances. (No Yearbook): be a disaster. Student surveys class of 2021 has missed out A virtual yearbook also might As this school year continues could turn up largely nega- on a lot of senior activities and save time and resources for to take hits from the COVID-19 tive. Teacher messages appear events, and a yearbook would those who are working tireless- pandemic, questions are aris- invaluable considering the be absent with all of the happy ly to come up with ideas for this ing as to if students will get a constant changing of virtual and memorable moments we year’s yearbook. The students physical yearbook this year. to hybrid and back to virtual, should have had. I think that have lost out on so much this Normal school activities are made the whole classroom a physical yearbook would be year, and the last thing many of at an all-time low, so pictures experience surreal. Pictures hard to distribute, especially us want is a physical yearbook cannot be taken to the extent of students in front of their because it is unknown about with no memories to look back to which they used to. With no computers would remind us of the status of virtual, hybrid, or on. usual events to gather infor- the terrible times that corona- in-person learning for the rest mation on, it would be dismal virus has brought, memories of this school year. A physical and depressing for the year- that most of us would prefer yearbook for this year almost book staff to have to alter the to forget. Essentially we do not feels wrong. A virtual yearbook

Emma’s POV year is far from normal, I think abnormal as well. The staff of high school. I also think that (Pro Yearbook): the yearbook team should use could even make a special sec- a physical yearbook would help As this school year continues that to their advantage. With tion for the seniors. The class students feel content after an to take hits from the COVID-19 no usual events to gather in- of 2021 has missed out on a lot unusual year filled with com- pandemic, questions are aris- formation on, it would be awe- of senior activities and events, puter screens and little social ing as to if students will get a some for the yearbook staff to and it would be amazing if interaction. The students have physical yearbook this year. put their own spin on the book. there were happy and memo- lost out on so much this year, While normal school activi- They could make sections filled rable moments to look back on and the last thing many of us ties like sports, pep rallies, with student surveys, messages through a yearbook. The team want is a virtual yearbook or no dances, and plays haven’t taken to their favorite teachers, or could compile old pictures yearbook at all. place yet this year in the typi- even selfies of students in front from the class of 2021’s years in cal sense, it’s been hard to re- of their computers. Sure, it’s high school; creating a special port anything noteworthy in not what the students expect timeline to remember the good this year's yearbook. While I their yearbook to look like, times the senior class had be- understand that this school but this year was completely fore their unfortunate last year WONDER WOMAN 1984 SHOWS PRINCE’S HUMBLE BEGINNINGS By Stephanie Martinez Op Ed Editor she was about to make it to the Dream Stone” is delivered to Warning: SEMI-SPOILERS! finish line. Antiope then tells the museum, and it seems to Did you know? Released on December her that “No true hero is born grant every wish one asks for. Regal Cinema 25,2020 Wonder Women from lies”. A theme that will This catches the eye of failing 1984 is the sequel to Wonder follow throughout the story. businessman Maxwell Lord closed all 536 of Woman (2017). Rated PG-13 The movie carries on years (played by Pedro Pascal) who the movie starts off with Diana later with Diana working in just wants his son to not see its US locations Prince (played by Gal Gadot) as the Smithsonian Museum in him as a loser. a child participating in a con- Washington DC as an archae- This movie is not for some- as of test that the Amazon women ologist. There she meets Bar- one who doesn’t like multiple host. As she is on the verge of bara Minerva, who will end by stories within a story happen- October 2020. winning, she falls off her horse being the second villain Chee- ing at once. This movie is cur- and ends up taking the short- tah, (played by Kristen Wiig) rently still running in some cut to win. Her trainer, Anti- a shy and quirky archaeolo- theaters and runs more than ope, (played by Robin Wright) gist who just wants to be seen. 2.5 hours long. pulls her out of the arena just as An ancient stone called “The 21 January 2021 SPORTS QUIET GAME: SPORTS DURING PANDEMIC By Kaitlyn Bestick for all activities. Included in Freelance Reporter these modifications was a se- A cancellation due to a pan- vere overlap from season to demic was nothing anyone had season placing a heavy burden begun to think of during the on multi-sport athletes, from spring sports tryouts of 2019. consecutive seasons. Previ- We threw, hit, and ran just like ously, there was only a slight any other season. Then poof, it overlap if teams had exceeded was gone. No more sports sea- in play and made it past the sons, the integration of masks, regional level. This is sadly and school through a screen not the case. Almost all playoff became our new normal. games will interfere with the As we slowly return to what beginning of tryouts for the feels like some normalcy with next sport to come, forcing an the reinstatement of win- absence from either very im- ter sports and conditionings, portant games or the oppor- many things have changed. tunity to play that next sport Pre-practice COVID question- all together. This choice can Photo courtesy of Antonio Coghill naires, mask-filled warm-ups, potentially limit rosters as ath- The boys varsity basketball team knows what it is like to play and socially distanced drills without a crowd. letes are put under a decision have changed the way that unmatched energy that can students and teachers can at- that can remove themselves many teams can begin to work kickstart a team all by itself. test to, watching through a from a team. The thrill of the at their sport. Along with safe- Sadly, new restrictions have screen is nowhere near being game itself may not be impact- ty, participation may be an un- been placed on the number of in person. Currently, Chancel- ed by limited roster sizes, but foreseen struggle during this fans in attendance, with a no lor’s basketball games can be the reduction of fans may just season like no other. Earlier in fan allowance at indoor sport- watched through www.nfhs. have that effect. this school year the Virginia ing events. This erases any com. Chancellor athletics events High School League (VHSL) hope of a student section for Looking back on the year have been one of the appeals approved a modified athletics football games, or extended of “unprecedented times” our of the school. Fans will line structure changing the tim- family coming to watch games. adaptations as a school and the stands with burgundy and ing of certain sports (i.e. win- Although all games have been community have pushed us grey showing proudly at any ter sports coming before fall switched to an online broad- to our limits, and have caused event they can attend. Their sports) and shortened seasons cast, the same feel of a sporting us to train in conditions we hoots and hollers create an event is not granted. As many could have never imagined REAL MEANING BEHIND SOCCER By Cheyenne Frazier hold of the idea of competi- in any sport including soccer,” ter a day.” Freelance Reporter tion and soccer at the age of Mukiza stated when discussing From here in the gated fences Chancellor High’s athletic de- five. Since then, Mukiza has his workout routines. Not only of Chancellor’s soccer fields, partment has many talented, accomplished many awards, does he participate in weekly Mukiza sees himself playing young student athletes, who such as a trophy from an eighth soccer practices and drills, he on the fields of the University all play a plethora of sports. grade district tournament and also takes it upon himself to of North Carolina. However, Among these sports, one of the a medal from his Junior Varsity run long distances every day the soccer endeavor could end most popular is soccer. Accord- district competition with his to keep up his stamina. Along there. While he loves the sport ing to a team member of the team as a freshman. with running everyday he also itself, Mukiza sees himself Chancellor High Varsity soccer The passion Mukiza has for does sit-ups and pushups at leaning towards the medical team, Raoul Mukiza, “Soccer is the sport stems from his love home before bed to maintain field and would also like to take my happy place; it comes to me of competition and his overall the health and structure of his the time in college to pursue when I feel down.” extroverted personality. He en- body. When asked the ques- dreams outside of soccer. As a young child, Mukiza joys working with a team and tion, “Do you follow any strict was heavily influenced by fam- helping them accomplish vic- diets?” He answered, “I eat a lot ily to play the sport. His envi- tory. of food, but I balance it out by ronment allowed him to get a “Discipline plays a huge role drinking at least a gallon of wa-

January 2021 22 SPORTS REFLECTIONS ON VOLLEYBALL Spending a moment to learn about: Annika Skjoldal Q: What are you doing to Q: How does it feel to not stay in shape? play your sport at a time of A: I watch my diet, exercise the year when you would on my own, exercise with normally play it? the team, and do yoga. A: Pretty weird, but I am just hoping that eventually Q: What position do you things will go back to nor- play? mal, because I miss playing. A: Middle, Outside, Right- side Q: Do you have any music you listen to while practic- Q: Who inspires you to play ing or conditioning that this sport and why? motivates you? If so, what A: My dad inspires me to is the name of the song or push myself further than artist? anyone else. He constantly A: Really just any loud, is looking for new ways to upbeat- fast paced song that work out to get better and keeps me motivated. I like new ways to develop dif- DaBaby’s music when I’m ferent skills so that he can working out too. watch me be successful. Q: Why do you play this Q: How long have you sport over other sports? played this sport? A: I used to play soccer, but A: 2 years eventually I decided I want- Left: Sophomore, Annika Sk- ed to try to play volleyball. joldal gets ready to set. So, I went to a few camps Below: Girls volleyball players practice in the gym. Top left: and practiced a ton. Daedrian Harvey; Bottom left: Senior Sierra Patterson; Top right: Coach Wolfrey and Emily Reich; Bottom right: Rachel Margelos

23 January 2021 SPORTS FIELD HOCKEY: BESTICK SETS HIGH GOALS By Kayleigh Johns Freelance Reporter “Sports is truly what my mense amount of support to life revolves around,” states achieve her goals. Regan Bestick, junior ath- “The coaches have creat- lete at Chancellor High ed an atmosphere so loving School. “I’m not the greatest and encouraging that you at sitting still; so, my sister can’t help but what to do and I are constantly doing your best,“ she states. “The something, no matter the family atmosphere is so en- sport.I do something active, couraging so there’s no rea- whether it be working out of son to want to be anywhere having practice, every day.” else. The team specifically is Bestick plays field hockey what keeps me going. Their and softball for Chancellor love and support make ev- and lacrosse club which is erything so much more fun, not affiliated with Chancel- and I couldn’t do it without lor. She has been playing them!” Bestick appreciates field hockey for five years the great bond established and is currently committed with her team, and explains to playing D1 lacrosse for St, how her team resembles a Joseph’s University where huge supportive family. she earned scholarships for Bestick thinks that this athletics as well as academ- year will be a little differ- ics. ent than last year because “I made the decision to of having to play in the cold play hockey my freshman and their loss of All-State year of high school and have captains Emma Bernard and never looked back,” Bestick Kylee Tubner who gradu- explains. “Charger Hockey ated but, she believes that means everything to me. they are players ready to fill It’s the reason why I love those gaps. She also thinks the start of the school year. that this year’s freshman No matter if it’s a day at the class has so much potential. track or game day, I try to She is constantly amazed at cherish every second be- their dedication to the pro- cause before I know it, it’ll gram and can’t want to see be my senior night.” them grow as people, play- “The mental aspect of this ers, and make this season as sport is incredibly difficult. great as it can be. Getting through that men- “[I want] to achieve the tal wall during runs or in a highest goal I can (1st team game was especially chal- all state for field hockey lenging for me but with a lit- specifically) and to help tle practice and a lot of love my team accomplish great and support from my team, things!” states Bestick. Per- I was able to get through it,” sonally I think these goals states Bestick. are set well considering Playing field hockey ia “[her] biggest achievement challenging and tough with- in field hockey is winning out a great supportive team. a State Championship my Bestick feels she has an im- freshman year!” January 2021 24 SPORTS SPORTS FOCUS: CHARGER ATHLETES

A special thanks to Photojournalism students Kaitlyn Bestick, Owen Garcia, Anthony Reyes Valedez and Katie Stafford for creating these images.

25 January 2021 SPORTS PAYING COLLEGE ATHLETES ALWAYS DEBATE By Steven Gomez Freelance Reporter athletes should be compen- sist of more endurance based sated at various levels and for “I feel like there should be workouts such as a constant different purposes. This issue cycle between a 1 mile sprint a certain level of skill before has continued to be debated compensation.” states Alexan- and a half mile jog, compared since 2019, and in December to flatter workouts like a cycle der Blair a 15 year old student 2020, Michigan Senate passed and track athlete at Chancel- between 300ft sprint, a 200ft a bill allowing college students sprint, and a 100ft sprint, lor High School. “If someone to earn money through athletic is a complete doodoo and like he did for track back in endorsements, as reported by middle school. The workouts doesn’t help the team at all, the Detroit Free Press, a move they shouldn’t be paid. Un- for cross country are primar- that follows California’s deci- ily just jogging in groups for a like if someone is carrying the sion to do the same. whole team on their back, they while, which won’t be as effec- Blair started with track after tive. Blair has been in many should 100% be compensated.” being encouraged by his grand- Blaire enjoys track so much sports throughout his life such father who thought he would as baseball which he started that he gives it 90% of his at- be a good fit after watching tention, though he would give when he was 9, parkour which him run in flag football. Blair he started when he was 11, more if he didn’t have to focus is currently on both the cross on his academics. He is hop- Raiders for JROTC which he country team and the track started when he was 14, and a ing to run track in college. Is team, though he likes track far there a chance that Blair could couple others. more. He is more than capable Whether Blair will get paid get paid in college for running of running cross country, but track? to run track in college remains to him the cross country prac- to be seen. However, accord- According to CNBC.com in tices and competitions just a September 2019 article, Col- ing to CareerTrend.com, he seem stagnant and repetitive can still earn money from run- lege Plus, a student focused compared to the ones for track. analytics company conducted ning, but nothing substantial “The only reason I’m still in unless he ranks at least in the a survey of college students cross country is for the people.” Photo courtesy of Alexander Blair top 10% athlete in his event in Track athlete Alexander Blair about whether athletes should says Blair. the United States. has a passion for running. be paid. The vast majority of Blair’s workouts for high students polled indicated that school track normally con- ANTICIPATING COUNTDOWN TO DAYTONA 500 By Kierston Johnson be the first driver to win three see who takes the checkered Staff Reporter consecutive 500s, and will tie flag first and accomplish every Days are counting down un- the legendary Cale Yarborough driver’s dream of winning the til the Super Bowl of Nascar with four victories in this pres- Great American Race. arrives: the 63rd annual Great tigious event. American Race, also known as Other favorites include Chase Did you know? the Daytona 500. This will also Elliott (2020 Cup Series Cham- be the 74th season of Nascar pion), Kevin Harvick (2007 The last five Daytona 500 since it was established in 1948. Daytona 500 winner), Brad Fans are in anticipation of the Keselowski (2012 Cup Series winners are: new season and what this year’s Champion), Ryan Newman 500 has to offer. (2008 Daytona 500 winner), Denny Hamlin - 2020 One of the heavy favorites for and Joey Logano (2015 Daytona Denny Hamlin - 2019 this year’s event is 3 time Day- 500 winner and 2018 Cup Se- tona 500 winner, former Ches- ries Champion). Austin Dillon - 2018 terfield, Virginia native Denny According to Nascar.com, Hamlin(2016, 2019, 2020). He there will be limited fan at- Kurt Busch - 2017 has won three of the last five tendance for this year’s event. Daytona 500s, including back But the pageantry of this race Denny Hamlin - 2016 to back victories in 2019 and will remain, and fans will still 2020. If he wins again, he’ll be on the edge of their seats to Joey Lacona - 2015 January 2021 26 SPORTS NO BUBBLE FOR NBA THIS SEASON By Kierston Johnson season that there would be no have no fans in attendance for and many others have some Staff Reporter bubble. NBA games. However, it won’t catching up to do if they want The 2020-2021 National Bas- According to The Washing- stop them from cheering their to compete in the playoffs. ketball Association (NBA) sea- ton Post December 7th ar- teams to victory. Many NBA The Los Angeles Lakers are son officially began its 75th ticle by Ben Golliver, despite fans are pointing towards the leading the Western Confer- season December 22. Due to the success of playing in the Los Angeles Lakers as the ence standings with an 8-3 re- the pandemic, the regular sea- bubble, the NBA didn’t con- heavy favorite to repeat as NBA cord, while the Philadelphia son has been reduced to 72 sider the bubble an option for champions after winning the 76ers lead the Eastern Confer- games, 10 games fewer than the 2020-2021 season. “Within title in October 2020. Others ence standings with a record of a regular basketball season. weeks, the league and its play- say the Los Angeles Clippers, 7-3. In a time of this pandem- This season is also not being ers’ union began negotiating Philadelphia 76ers, Boston ic, fans are eager to see which played in a “bubble” as last the financial terms, schedule Celtics, Golden State Warriors, team will come out on top this season was. That bubble, also and structure of the 2020- and Milwaukee Bucks, who are season. referred to as the 2020 NBA 21 season. Even though the doing well so far, could have an So keep cheering your teams Bubble, the Disney Bubble and pandemic raged on and has opportunity to challenge them. on NBA fans. Who knows? the Orlando Bubble, allowed reached new peak levels this While other teams such as the Your team might take home the 22 NBA teams to play in fall, returning to the safety of a Denver Nuggets, New York the trophy when it’s all said isolation at Walt Disney World bubble to start the season was Knicks, Pelicans, and done. in Bay Lake, Florida. The NBA never seriously considered. San Antonio Spurs, Memphis decided that for the 2020-2021 The 2020-2021 season will Grizzlies, Houston Rockets, BASKETBALL: GAME ON WITH NO FANS By Marim Farag going to attend college, but he used to make a big difference Staff Reporter doesn’t know which one yet, to the team during the game. Chancellor High School held and he’s planning on playing “YESS it’s way more fun when its ever-first basketball game basketball there as well. there’s a crowd and it’s more without an audience because of “Really weird, but once you’re hype,” he states. COVID. COVID has had an im- focused on the game you don’t The basketball varsity team mense impact on professional pay attention to it,” Coghill practices five to six times a sports since March 2020, and stated, when reflecting on week and for about an hour now we are experiencing those what it is like to play with no and a half. They have to clean effects at the highschool level. fans cheering him on. His first the basketball before playing as This is little way that COVID thought when he stepped onto well as their hands. There are a has not impacted us all both the basketball court was that few things that they have to do physically and mentally. Let’s he was just excited to be back before they practice and play take a look at how one of the on the court. He and his team- the actual game such as they varsity’s basketball athletes, mates found it weird when have to take their temperature Antonio Coghill, feels about they didn’t hear any cheering and fill out the COVID screen- COVID and how he felt when during the game. ing on the school website. he played without an audience. Since players and fans have Coghill thinks COVID is ru- Coghill, an18 years old senior new restrictions as a result of ining his basketball career, but at Chancellor High School is COVID; there have been some he’s trying to stay positive. “I’m on the varsity basketball team. changes made to the basket- definitely trying to stay positive Hel goes by “AJ” a lot of peo- ball team. The chances that with all of this, but I definitely ple because he prefers it, and were made is that they didn’t wanted fans at my senior year proudly wears number 3 on his have the same routine they games,” he explains. “Virtual jersey. had like they used to because school is easy but it [stinks] AJ Coghill’s favorite position is He is a popular guy at school they had to social distance for not being able to see anyone.” shooting guard. as well as when it comes to bas- a while, but they still practiced Coghill’s favorite position ketball. He is a very on-going the same amount. They have to is shooting guard. Everyone Sometimes, coaches listen to person once you get to know wear masks on the bench, there should listen to their coach your thoughts when it comes him, hard-working, bright, full can be no audience, no tip off when they play sports because to playing games because play- of energy, and generous. to start the game and seats on coaches typically know more ers might think differently and Coghill has been playing bas- the bench are staggered. than the players. Coghill ad- might have another solution ketball since he was four years Coghill doesn’t think they’re dressed this with his funny that he might not have. “[My old, and he plans on playing going to have an audience any- sense of humor and said, “Nah, coach] just does what he thinks basketball in the future. AJ is time soon. Having an audience I’m right sometimes.” will win.“ 27 January 2021 CHARGING CORNER ’S DEATHLESS JOURNEY IN LAST RESORT HOTEL This is part three of this article that premiered in the December issue of The Lightning Bolt on page 27. Please refer to that issue online on the CHHS website for what you missed! By Katie Stafford Staff Reporter limp like Luigi had a moment I don’t know how Nintendo ago. Perplexed, he turns his did it, but they’ve made these blue gaze on his goo-partner, two unfunny tropes funny. I elevator button in his slacken think it’s because the gamer grip. Seeing this, he whoops; wouldn’t expect the cowardly his arms raised to the ceiling cop to be just as scared as Lu- and cheers, “Ha ha! I did it!” igi, whose calm throughout the If the player is playing co-op whole scene, and that be what with a friend, the cutscene is sells this trope: that Luigi, a slightly different: Gooigi picks coward, isn’t scared. I feel if up the button to show Luigi,

Luigi had been just as fright- who watches this happen, and https://www.dailymotion.com/video/x7njbnh Source: Photo ened, the scene of who should turns to cheer what he says if act more panicky would have the player is playing solo but out with Luigi right in front of receive a gem. been confused, so the player his goo-clone raises his arms Polterpup. I decided to watch it The timid plumber nervously would see both freak out over up like Luigi has, and, garbled, with a new angle: by approach- walks into the dining area once each other. It isn’t Luigi’s fear, says: Whoo, I do it!” Luigi, his ing the ghost pup from the he returns to the place Polter- nor both their fear of one an- smile faltering, his fisted hands side. The journey to Polterpup pup went to. He notices Polter- other, but the ghost’s terror lowering, turns to Gooigi, was longer; Luigi went down pup, a baguette in his mouth, of the cowardly plumber that slightly disgusted, saying, “Oh,” the first basement, where the who walks through the wall makes it truly funny, and the which, because his pitch was portable lab and the under- to the kitchen. A tableful of failed roll into the room is just lowering, made it sound like ground garage is, headed to ghosts don’t notice Luigi, who icing on the cake. When I saw he was saying, “Ew.” I found out the stairs, then went up the du- notices them. He gulps, clicks that failed roll in this deathless about the co-op cutscene when al-winged stairs to Polterpup. off his flashlight, and inches run, and I knew what to expect, I was playing the game with an The green-clad fellow goes up to the kitchen. Barely halfway I still laughed. eight-year-old cousin of mine to Polterpup, who circles the there, he knocks into this con- The ’ roll causes him to a few months after I had at- ground, and leaps through tainer of amber-colored liquid, bump into the box. He then tempted the deathless run, and the door. Just seeing it from which I guess is oil; Nintendo gets out an innocent looking written this article; we were this side angle gives a decent wouldn’t have given this game red box; it turns out to be a laughing after Luigi showed cutscene a new prospective. It’s an E rating if there was the as- jack-in-the-box, and he tosses disgust towards Gooigi, and like watching a movie that isn’t sociation of alcohol in their it away, screaming. Next, he once we both semi-stopped, in HD and one that is; it will game. I understand Nintendo removes a fake blue pufferfish; it was brought back up again be the same, but the new view in the 90’s is a different case all the spines embed in his ghostly after E. Gadd asked Luigi if he makes it look really appealing together: For example, the very hand, and he shakes it off, cry- was shopping or not. and new. first game, which ing out in pain. After study- The button trembles in his Luigi opens the door to see was given the ironic name of ing his hand for a moment, he hand and clicks into place. Lu- Polterpup sniff some cheese Mario Kart, and was for the Su- pulls a red-and-yellow water igi heads to the Mezzanine, a next to a cart. He snatches the per Nintendo Entertainment gun. The boss fight starts, and floor where he has been before, cheese, and goes through the System back in 1992, had both Gooigi has to be used as Luigi so there is no cutscene show- door at the head of the corri- Peach and Bowser, if they won, isn’t malleable like his goo- ing him tentatively exiting out dor. With that, Luigi then de- either get completely wasted clone to slip through the bars. the relative safety of the eleva- stroys the cart. It goes to the on booze (Japan) or flip a green The fight was so simple, the tor that’s only bested by Gadd’s hallway where the safe with beer bottle (North America). ghost didn’t even get to try out air-conditioned, sturdy, and the Dark-Light Device is, and The shattering glass as the his water gun he spent so much safe portable lab. Soon after the plumber travels through it liquid pools on the ground tedious, pain-ridden, and fear- exiting the elevator, Polterpup until he goes to the place where alerts the ghosts, who all grab ful time getting. can be seen staring at a door. Gadd was imprisoned. He then food once one whistles, send- The floor-two button on the A cutscene plays with Luigi, exposes a secret by the help of ing out their companions. One floor, Gooigi picks it up. On once turning the bend, watch- his goo-clone. If the player uses of the newcomers floats over to the other side of the door, Lu- ing Polterpup leap through the both Gooigi and Luigi to move Luigi, looks at the food on the igi has jerked awake. Once he door. a chandelier, it’ll reveal a hid- buffet table, and raises a large opens his eyes, Gooigi falls However, I saw this scene play den door that’ll let the gamer sandwich threateningly at the January 2021 28 CHARGING CORNER LUIGI’S DEATHLESS JOURNEY IN LAST RESORT HOTEL CONT’D cowardly plumber. The battle have started coughing, and not Luigi and Gooigi to suck it in igi’s Mansion for the Game- was simple, but a ghost was once he got too close to the their Poltergust Double-Zeros, Cube has the player in a dark able to hit Luigi with a pretzel, smoke, which, due to carbon I’m saying there is truly an in- room with lightning flashing, removing ten health points. At monoxide replacing the oxy- creased level of nitrogen diox- showing shadows with each one point, a heart flies on the gen in his blood, and depriving ide - “can have significant im- flash, after a blackout. One of other side of the battle-gates, organs like the brain and heart, pacts on people with asthma these many shadows seems to leaving Luigi unable to get the would have Luigi die. Www. because it can cause frequent be Luigi’s lifeless body hang- heart, even with using the Pol- osha.gov explains this, and that and more intense attacks.” ing from a rafter, supposedly; tergust. Luigi would have collapsed and Considering Nintendo never considering that game came Once Luigi is in the kitchen, suffocated from carbon mon- said Luigi has asthma, then it’s out on September 14, 2001, a large black cloud of smoke oxide poisoning. a safe bet he doesn’t have asth- there isn’t any proof besides has him needing both him I then realized if Luigi re- ma. Meanwhile, the chef-ghost what could be a glitch (some and his goo-partner to suck moved the smoke right away, could have had asthma when glitches only happen once in a up the smoke. If he tries to then he would have a chance he was alive, so that informa- single place), and the 3DS re- walk through the smoke, he’ll of surviving if real-life phys- tion isn’t completely useless. make of the first game in the run away, suffering from a ter- ics were in place in this game. According to www.nj.gov (the Luigi’s Mansion series doesn’t rible coughing fit caused by the That’s what I thought, but I N and the J standing for New showcase Luigi’s shadow hung smoky cloud of death. was wrong, especially with the Jersey), about what does hap- from a rafter, it could be gam- Then, I began to wonder: amount of smoke produced pen to a human - or in this case ers jumping to a conclusion What would breathing in that in the kitchen. Now, I’m not Mario’s overshadowed, cow- that transformed into a theory smoke do to Luigi, and due talking about Luigi dying from ardly brother, Luigi - if exposed after the recent terrible tragedy to the fact the chef is a ghost, carbon monoxide poisoning by to nitrogen dioxide: “High lev- around that time. Regardless, I what could have killed the breathing it in until he dies; no, els can interfere with the abil- proved a theory about the first boss-ghost? With that, I be- it’ll be the damage to his brain ity of the blood to carry oxygen to be true - using real-life sci- gan to do the research, which that’s going to be the problem causing headache, fatigue, diz- entific facts - about the third; it sounds easy, but Google seems in the end. ziness, and a blue color to the took 18 years, one month, and to think whenever I put in the According to www.medicalx- skin and lips. Higher levels” 17 days between the release word “smoke” the search en- press.com, authored by Julie - both Luigi and Gooigi work- dates from the first and third gine just gives me information Connolly on September 20, ing together to clear the smoke games, but Luigi, by the third on how to stop smoking, and 2018, carbon monoxide will - “can cause trouble breathing, game, is most likely dead. how bad smoking is to a per- cause inflammatory response, collapse and even death.” What did E. Gadd tell Luigi, son. So, I had to be a bit crafty which the brain and heart are Either way the player splits once he first laid eyes on him? with the way I worded my most likely to be affected. The it, Luigi is dead by the second “Hold that thought - now isn’t questions. damage can cause him to be floor. He could die by the car- the time to catch up. What First, it was a matter of forgetful; Julie Connolly men- bon monoxide from an unsafe matters is you’ll do nicely! finding out what oven is be- tioned in her article she spoke burner configuration, and if he Come on, Luigi. Get me out of ing used. It turns out to be a to a carbon-monoxide survivor does survive, will suffer brain here now! This hotel is filled gas oven, which, according who kept forgetting his wife damage, regardless if it’s per- to the brim with ghosts! Let’s to www.scopeblog.standford. didn’t like tea. However, the manent or not. Or he can col- make a run for it!” Right. If edu, gas ovens aren’t safe: “A damage to his brain could be lapse, or feel too tired to leave the cowardly fellow does sur- gas burner almost always pro- permanent or abated. the kitchen, by breathing in vive, then Gadd can convince duces significant quantities of There is one thing - or gas - I too much nitrogen dioxide, an ill, now-forget Luigi to flee nitrogen dioxide, which is a hadn’t considered: nitrogen di- and sit or lay there, dying. with him. Once they’re safe in respiratory irritant. Depending oxide. Even if the burner con- Excuse the cliche, but fact is Gadd’s unportable lab, and if on the burner configuration, it figuration is not expelling car- scarier than fiction; it also is his forgetfulness caused by the can also produce carbon mon- bon monoxide, then this would keeping E. Gadd grieving over carbon monoxide poisoning oxide, which is regulated by have Luigi, by what www.en- his tester’s death, if he even isn’t going to make him forget the Environmental Protection vironment.gov says, nitrogen cares for Luigi. There’s no need things he does continuously, Agency.” Because the burner dioxide “can cause problems to wonder if Luigi truly hung then Gadd can make Luigi his configuration is not safe at all, such as wheezing, coughing, himself back in the first game, ghost-collecting apprentice, there will be carbon monoxide, colds, flu and bronchitis.” because if he didn’t hang him- and not kick him out if own which could have killed the From the same site, “Increased self, I proved he’s dead or sur- bad his forgetfulness is. boss ghost when he was alive. levels of nitrogen dioxide” - viving with brain damage in If the forgetfulness wears off, Luigi isn’t safe either. The mo- considering there is a massive the third game. If the player and once Luigi learns he left ment he walked in, he should black cloud of smoke forcing doesn’t know, the attic in Lu- his friends behind because of 29 January 2021 CHARGING CORNER LUIGI’S DEATHLESS JOURNEY IN LAST RESORT HOTEL CONT’D how sick he was, Gadd could Gooigi suck up the smoke. The mouse pounces, snatch- bathroom that Gooigi un- easily, because of how twisted Chef Soulffle flips a fish, sniffs es the button, lands on Luigi’s locked earlier than intended. his mind is, make Luigi feel it, and turns to see the plumber cap, and lands on the floor. Usually, the player would have guilty enough to not save his standing on the other side of Straightening his cap that has to enter the other bathroom, friends. However, if Luigi’s still his stove. Luigi screams once been lowered to his eyes, the get the goo-clone through the same cowardly fellow he is, the ghost sees him. Looking at plumber says, “Oh, no,” then the pipe, and get the mouse; then guilt of what he unknow- him like he never saw anyone he watches the mouse swallow however, I already did that, ingly done would eat away at in his kitchen, he doesn’t no- the button before leaving. so Luigi was able to enter the him until he swallows down tice the fish on the tilted pan Out in the corridor, Luigi bathroom without a crumb of his fears to go back to the hotel sliding off the pan to plop to notices the mouse eating some food blocking him from enter- and fight King . But that’s the ground. At the sound of cheese before fleeing into a ing. The timid plumber forces if he does survive, and the only the fish hitting the floor, his hole leading to a room with a open the middle stall door, and way he can live is if Gadd snaps eye twitches before he goes af- pool table, and other games. a pile of mice are in the toilet; at him for being lazy and to get ter the cowardly plumber for The mouse flees through the the mouse on the tippy top of moving, not towards battle, only coming in unseen by the hole in a cabinet, and Lu- the mouse-pile is the one who but back to him, since he’ll smoke, and unheard by his igi heads over to the mouse. thought swallowing an eleva- probably realize something is humming and the sizzling of However, as he’s climbing the tor button was a good idea. making Luigi unwell. fish slowly charring. two stairs to the cabinet, a ball The mice scatter, and Luigi I would say, I’d love the next The battle is won by taking clatters to the ground, several runs around, getting coins by - if there is to be a fourth - Lu- the pan he’s holding away by feet from him. The plumber having the non-glowing mice igi’s Mansion game to be of this using Suction Shot, or either turns to see a cue ball floating explode to get the two or three idea: Because of some “myste- the watermelons or pumpkins in the air. A yellow, thin ghost coins for each mouse. Last, rious” vapor, Luigi is forced to scattered around the kitchen appears, along with another the glowing mouse explodes flee with E. Gadd from the main slamming into his pan. Once ghost of the same type pops to have the elevator button fly setting to get a new Poltergust the chef is sucked up, the but- out from one the holes in the to the center of the bathroom. with some strange technol- ton expels at the sink. Luigi pool table, and both go in for He holds the button gingerly ogy to keep Luigi from falling goes to pick up the button, but an attack. These ghosts usually between his thumb and fore- sick. Nintendo, please, make a mouse startles him; on the hide and throw items at Luigi finger, wipes it on the leg of his this idea happen! I would love ground, he watches the crea- to trip or hurt him; these two overalls, and seeing the new to play a Luigi’s Mansion game ture swallow it before running didn’t get to throw anything at elevator button shining, raises with that idea. It be so memo- past him. him before they were sucked it, and says, “Got it!” A slight rable and so unique compared With the mouse gone, I decid- up. pause follows before the quirky to the past three games. I’m not ed to see how good a cook Lu- Using the Suction Shot, Lu- fellow adds, “Yeah!” saying the idea has to be full of igi was. I was able to find what igi was able to get the mouse After the elevator button how this “mysterious” gas is looked like a frozen ham, and out of the cabinet, but he ran trembles in his hand, flies to there, but it would be nice if Luigi cooked it, before burning off, leaving the plumber clearly the slot, then twists and clicks Gadd explained it was some- it to nothing. Guess he’s better disappointed. With the mouse in place, E. Gadd says, “Luigi, thing in the air in the kitchen at helping the greedy professor gone for a moment, and the you’re doing a great job! Why that made Luigi fall ill. Ninten- at ghost-collecting, and help- pool balls still there, I de- don’t you make your way back do, I’m just saying this plot will ing Mario if his brother needs cided Luigi deserved a break. to the lab, OK? There’s some- work, and I would love to play a him, than cooking a meal. Considering Billiards is one of thing I need to tell you. See you Luigi’s Mansion game with this Luigi enters the dining area. two games Luigi can play, I de- soon!” I really wanted to go to idea. As mice like cheese, Luigi uses cided to get all the cue balls in the new floor, but Gadd would Anyway, no 1-UP Mushroom the Poltergust to get a big slab the holes. With each ball that tell Luigi to head to the lab, is going to revive him if reality of cheese, places it on the vanishes, a light on the side of regardless if Luigi tries to go catches up to him after those ground, and the mouse runs the table lights up. If the player to a floor he already explored. moments in the kitchen; fic- out. Before the creature can gets all the balls in them, then At the lab, Gadd says Luigi’s tion is keeping Mario’s brother feast on the tasty offering, Lu- Luigi will get a decent amount pockets must be bursting with from being dead, not from ei- igi uses the Scrobulb, and the of money. The other game is all the money he’s gathered. He ther King Boo or Gravely, but mouse explores into a few coins for Luigi to take a sword from tells him, “Fret not. I have the the smoke from Chef Soulffle’s and the needed elevator but- a decoration in the room, and perfect solution to your cum- love for trying to char fish by ton. He grabs it, holds it up into expel it to the target; being a bersome currency conundrum the amount of smoke. the air, says, “I did it!” while a bulls-eye, Luigi will get a gem. . . . Just give it all to me!” He With fiction keeping Luigi mouse on the table runs over to Once Luigi gets out of the goes to say he has opened up alive in the kitchen, he and the plumber. room, the mouse flees to the the Shopping Network, so he January 2021 30 CHARGING CORNER LUIGI’S DEATHLESS JOURNEY IN LAST RESORT HOTEL CONT’D doesn’t have to resort to theft hanging low to the ground, if to show I have no sense of hu- tergust-3000 Luigi in the 3DS to obtain some of the money the mist parts, then it’ll be Boo, mor; if the reader goes to the reboot of Luigi’s Mansion to Luigi has gotten. But the pro- who’ll be defeated with little to website, www.luigismansion. allow Luigi during that time fessor is so nice as to, for one no problems. nintendo.com, he or she can to test an untested Gooigi? time only, give out a free Gold The elevator doors open as read how Gooigi came to be. Well, after taking a gulp from Bone to the player. Luigi, shivering and whimper- While E. Gadd was drinking a his coffee blend, Gadd real- With the free Gold Bone ing, tentatively steps out, his cup of Lunoman Greenie cof- izes to have Gooigi catch ghost in hand, Luigi is told to turn flashlight’s beam shifting as fee blend from Evershade Val- for him in the mansion where around so his Poltergust G-00 he glances around. He halts, ley, the settling where a Polter- he and Luigi met, because can be adjusted. The “adjust” noticing the soft piano music gust-4000 wielding Luigi was he needs ghost energy out- is just a nice way for a small with a hint of eeriness drift- in Dark Moon, a ghost scares side Evershade Valley to make feature to be added. Through ing towards him, as one hand Gadd while he’s experiment- Gooigi’s properties “capabili- his research, Gadd found there cups around his ear. I know the ing with ghost energy - a liquid ties beyond those of a normal were Boos hidden in the hotel; trick he’s using with his hand; energy from ghosts having no person,” and the ghost collect- Luigi’s visibly nervous about singers usually do it as a way to effects on anything: fire, water, ing will give Gooigi experience. this news. With that, the pro- make sure a pitch, or in Luigi’s poked with iron, poured on He shaped part of his Goo fessor says that was all he need- case, music travels into their rubber, and Gadd dipping in into a Poltergust once Gadd ed for the plumber. ear to register how it sounds. his morning donut in it - and showed him footage of how Out in the hallway, something He lowers his hand, and seems the whole cup of coffee splash- Luigi caught ghosts, which had happened to the goo in the see- soothed for a moment by the es into the ghost energy. Gadd Gooigi parrot Luigi’s actions. It through container. Gadd calls spooky lullaby from the piano. realizes, once the ghost energy was the perfect solution; how- to explain Gooigi was made of Luigi gets a call from E. Gadd, has grown in viscosity and be- ever, the mansion vanished by Goo, and that Goo reacts to who explains he has a transfer came the same shade of green that time. He did the simple the presence of a nearby Boo system set up with the VB for as his coffee blend, he created a task of modifying the Pixelator by vibrating; in other words, if him to go to the lab on a mo- whole new element: Goo! so it could contact his past self Gooigi is out, then he’ll shake ment’s notice, and vice versa Naturally, the greedy inven- and Luigi, who’ll be the one to with the presence of a Boo. If as well. “Good-bye,” Luigi says tor couldn’t wait to test Goo’s help Gadd in the future test out the Goo is in the container, while putting the VB away. I properties: A fire and water test an untested Gooigi. Sometime then it’ll froth up with foam, then decided to test out the showed Goo has a weakness to later, Gooigi returns to Gadd in and the JoyCons will vibrate transfer system, and if the play- flames and water, but he re- the present during that time, as the foamy Goo froths with er has played Dark Moon, then alized the flecks of Goo not now experienced in ghost-col- the too-close Boo; it’ll make it’s a nice little Easter egg. doused in water fled from its lecting, and the professor de- the Poltergust shake on Luigi’s Dark Moon had a Pixelator, watery weakness. As he created cides to experiment with Goo back. The visual clues are just an invention where someone sound, he realized Goo could to “enhance Gooigi’s abilities as helpful as the clues given by - Gadd - was able to pixelate understand outside stimuli beyond that of any normal per- the vibrating JoyCons. molecules of a person - Luigi when Goo followed the noise. son,” thanks to his fresh supply The way to fight a Boo is the - and transport that mysteri- Before he finds out what Goo of ghost energy. player has to find the Boo, and ous someone over to a certain can do, he makes another cup After finding out the ghost once found, the Boo will be greedy professor whose name of his Lunoman Greenie coffee energies in the past differ from visible only when attacking or will not be disclosed due to the blend. Evershade Valley’s, and he real- with the Dark-Light Device. fact he forced this same mys- He decides to make Goo ized Gooigi could slip through Dizzy by the Dark-Light, Lu- terious someone to get him into a humanoid shape, but tight spaces, like bars or grates, igi has to suck up its tongue. out of the tight spot King Boo just making a mold and let- for his enhancement, he wants Knocking it around will give landed him in. Luigi’s first ex- ting Goo hold the shape, isn’t to work a way for Gooigi to be out gold bars and coins, and perience with the Pixelator was going to work without some immune from his two great the Boo, with twenty health, at his home in front of the TV, help. Turning Luigi’s data from weaknesses: fire and water. will be sucked up. If Luigi can’t and Gadd’s machine pixelated the times he’s pixelated by the He tries to make Goo more of find the Boo, then it’ll relocate Luigi until he was forced to Pixelator to an electrical single, a liquid to combat the fire, but itself, and bats will circle a cow- use the Poltergust 4000 on the Goo takes the form of Luigi. He Goo still melts at the touch of ering plumber, removing five once-friendly ghosts. names the Luigi-shaped Goo flames. As he was making the health points every now and I realize my joke only those Gooigi. molecular bonds of Goo grow then; the player can remove the who have some experience in That isn’t the end to Gooigi’s tighter, Polterpup popped out bats with a simple Burst. One the journalism field failed. I secret origin story. Reader, in excitement, knocking the of the best ways to tell where might do something a little remember how I said Gadd vial out of his hand, which had Boo is, is to look at the mist less pathetic and not continue calls his past self and a Pol- the more rigid Goo splash on 31 January 2021 CHARGING CORNER LUIGI’S DEATHLESS JOURNEY IN LAST RESORT HOTEL CONT’D top of his head. With the Goo gets him to use the vacuum af- either body if it’s in danger. origin story of Gooigi (and the too rigid to peel off, and it now ter some flashes with the Stro- During the whole time he Poltergust G-00) now at an hardening as it ran down his bulb, he stands there, sucking was creating Gooigi, he was end, I still have to mention the body, making him unable to nothing, but being unable to meant to help Luigi in Ever- Easter egg for gamers who have breathe, he runs out of the room stop. Having tried to change shade Valley; a little - sorry, a played Dark Moon. he was in. His world darkening, the controller’s system, he lot - self-absorbed for Gadd to Luigi will take out a small red struggling to breathe, he wakes brushes it, and before he knew be supposedly helping Luigi in TV with a green screen. As it up sometime later, not remem- it, Gooigi had turned from the Evershade Valley hunt down flies through the air after his bering what had happened, bare wall to him, which had his the last Dark Moon shard or toss, the TV expands. Once it’s but he must have turned on the hair caught in the gooey Pol- two, but in reality using time big enough, he’ll walk through; shower before collapsing. Even tergust. Fighting to keep from travel to use the past to help the white-and-green square- though he had nearly died, Gooigi finishing off his creator, himself and his invention, shaped particles flying as he knowing Goo (and Gooigi) he realized the Poltergust’s Gooigi. One day, while he was enters. Once out, I talk to E. could have been the last thing power was too strong for him; celebrating finishing up Gooigi Gadd, who doesn’t say much, he ever invented, he does hun- having accepted he was going and the Poltergust G-00 with a just the usual: find ghosts and dreds of carefully done tests to die in Gooigi’s Poltergust, cup of his coffee blend, a letter money - no mention of saving on Goo, trying to find a way to with more than half his head explaining he was able to relax Luigi’s friends and family. With make Goo immune to it’s two swallowed in it, in his final mo- at The Last Resort Hotel, and another reminder of the fact he weaknesses, even when Goo’s ments, he knocks a bucket full if he bring King Boo, which wasn’t happy with a coward’s weakness to water had saved of water and a mop at Gooigi Luigi was able to get thanks to show of true loyalty and cour- his life. In the end, he decides accidentally. Sprawled on the his Poltergust 4000 swallowing age to face his fears to help to document Gooigi’s four ground, he realized he was him, he could get her priceless everyone he cared about, and weaknesses: fire; water (direct grateful Gooigi had a weakness ghost collection, came in the he wanted Luigi to get him out contact only, as rooms with to water, as the gooey clone of mail. of the hotel the second he laid water vapor or steam don’t); re- Luigi wouldn’t have just been Delighted, with a spring in eyes on him, I leave Gadd to be peated or powerful blows, as he his last invention, but would his step, and his head filled by himself, all alone, with no loses consistency, but Gooigi have been his killer. with dreams of the new ghosts one to talk to as Luigi faces the can somewhat handle physi- Having nearly died twice, he he could add to his collection, unknown. Once out, he pock- cal blows; and he can’t turn a continues his research on Goo he packs Gooigi, the Polter- ets the TV that had shrunk for doorknob to open an unlocked without fear, even though he gust G-00, (the portable lab him for storage. door, but he can open draw- must have been, at least, a little not mentioned in the things he Luigi walks forward, jumps, ers or treasure chests, as their scared as he couldn’t breathe brings), and the Boo Canister and cries out, and my heart minimum effect. from too-rigid Goo, and been (aka the gallery I’ll never use) nearly stops. A cymbal rolls As he tested Gooigi, Gadd nearly swallowed whole by in his car and heads to the ho- over, and clatters to the ground. noticed Gooigi could be un- Gooigi’s gooey Poltergust. In- tel in the mountains, which is I discovered Luigi can use the predictable at times; believing stead of a controller, he tries said to be a location thought to Suction Shot to drag and bang it was Gooigi not being a hu- to transfer his consciousness be housing rare ghosts. Some- the cymbal on the red-carpet- man entity, the Luigi-shaped from his own to Gooigi’s, which time during the same time, Lu- ed ground. However, Luigi isn’t clone of the cowardly plumber was related to him wanting to igi is rushing to invite Mario, good at cymbals. So, not good wouldn’t act sensibly some- make a Poltergust that could Peach, and the trio of Toads to at cooking nor playing an in- times. No matter how badly store Gooigi while he wasn’t in the same hotel. Not knowing strument, Gadd chose well in a Gadd wanted Gooigi to sneak use. Since he made a new Pol- the wonderful hotel was really tester for his crazy, oddly spe- up on ghosts, “he always ended tergust to store Gooigi by this a trap to capture everyone in cifically used inventions. In the up brazenly charging forward, time, he added a sensor to it, picture frames, like the ones trilogy of the games (includ- scaring them off!” He wants to which would press against the King Boo had been subjected ing the reboot of the first game control Gooigi’s movements; wearer’s back, allowing who- to twice. And it was a ruse all for the 3DS), Luigi’s becoming he implants a chip into him, ever wore the new Poltergust along that should have been more of Gadd’s quirky, cow- and uses a remote control to to transfer his own conscious- very suspicious about a free ardly apprentice than a tester make him walk around with- ness from his to Gooigi, but the stay at a beautiful hotel, so to the long line of Poltergusts. out any issue. It’s when he tries wearer will be slumped over, much so that King Boo had his At the rate he’s going, Luigi the controlled Gooigi to use in a sleep-like state while the own doubts if E. Gadd, Luigi, should become the professor’s his Poltergust that he runs into wearer was using Gooigi. With and the cowardly plumber’s official ghost-collecting, ghost- problems; when he controls the system, the wearer can party of five would even show researching apprentice. No, ac- Gooigi to use the vacuum, he swiftly transfer from one con- up, but he was ready, just in tually, the plumber should get uses the Strobulb, and when he sciousness to the other to help case. With the dark, secret out of there as soon as possible. January 2021 32 CHARGING CORNER LUIGI’S DEATHLESS JOURNEY IN LAST RESORT HOTEL CONT’D He’s gullible enough for Gadd bottles; the bottles play a re- His soft, eerie lullaby comes (it wasn’t damaged), and was to make him believe money mix of the first Luigi’s Mansion to an abrupt halt as he looks amazed when Luigi knocked and inanimate objects, like the game. He then puts his Polter- to notice Luigi, frozen, who’s the ghost around and sucked it inventor’s inventions, is more gust in the mouth of the Boo- either vainly hoping the ghost up; I was even more astonished important than the safety of door, and the part to stun the wouldn’t spot him if he stays when the plumber slammed lives. Show, don’t tell; describe, ghosts gets lodged between the still, or wouldn’t see him as a the ghost close to being sucked don’t explain. door’s jaws. He then places his threat if he freezes in place, up when it slammed into its Luigi goes over to a red carpet, feet on the door, trying to pull even though he has, to a ghost, two fellows, getting them up a wave appears, trying to trip it out; the door only lets go of a scary-looking and possibly to sixty health each. I snatched him. Using Burst, he was able the flashlight once he’s back in dangerous vacuum cleaner my Switch, and resumed the to not be tripped, and the of- the bathroom. with some strange green liq- battle. The other two ghosts fending ghost was swiftly dealt In the other bathroom, I no- uid in a see-through container were easy after their little with. However, the ghost was tice one of the sinks has no fau- strapped to his back. friend helped me drain their able to trip Luigi three times, cet; using the Dark-Light has The ghost pulls up his sleeves, health. Guess that one wanted as I miscalculated when the the will o’ the wisps creatures and his tempo quickens before to commit friendly fire. Poltergust should have shot called Spirit Balls fly to the oth- coming to a stop with a tremor- The last act of the battle (get the air downward. At the end er side of the bathroom. With ing note and a leer. Meanwhile, it?) is where the boss ghost gets of the hallway, where the ghost the Spirit Balls sucked up, the Luigi backs slowly down the enraged enough to then pos- took Luigi, he notices a pop- faucet is no longer invisible, first two steps; the cowardly sess the piano, which attacks corn machine. Luigi was able and I became interested in try- fellow turns and stumbles Luigi. Noticing the plumber to get a gem by making some ing to catch some coins and a down the stairs, crying out in still standing (and in my case) popcorn and coins explode out golden spider. The golden spi- fear and panic. Once he’s off unharmed, he stops playing of the old-fashioned popcorn ders give out a decent amount stage, the stairs magically re- and growls until he’s scream- machine. of money. By the time I had treat into the stage. Luigi now ing. He slams the piano to let I then decided to explore the gotten all the coins, I noticed a only has flying seats trying to him enter the lid, which had two bathrooms. The first one closed stall door. remove ten health points; my opened once the ghost hits it, I checked out was the one to Luigi uses Suction Shot to re- strategy for this part of the bat- and, once possessing it, the the right. This bathroom had move it, and sees a tuba lodged tle is to keep Luigi running and piano shakes and jumps until a Boo-shaped door. The way to in a toilet. I tried every trick to keep from getting cornered. it reveals glowing red eyes and open the door is for Gooigi to in the book to get it removed: At times I was cornered, but clattering jarring notes. It re- slip through the bars leading Burst, Dark-Light, Suction Luigi dodged the auditorium mains the player of the piano to a white-gemed chain. Before Shot, and because there was chairs at the last possible mo- in Big Boos Haunt in Mario 64; I got to the chain for his goo- water everywhere in the stall, ment. The whole time, the boss this is so much scarier, because clone to pull it, I accidentally I couldn’t use Gooigi, except to ghost is busy performing a solo of the better graphics and it pressed the buttons to make get him cornered in the only to Luigi, who can’t sit down being HD. At least it does have Luigi talk; Gooigi shakily calls water-free space that’ll have and enjoy the show with all fangs like the piano in Mario’s out Mario’s name, but it was him melt if he moves a single the seating trying to harm the first-ever 3D game; it would slightly garbled. With that dis- pixel in any direction. With overshadowed Mario Brother. easily make the piano no lon- covery, his goo-partner pulls nothing working to get this With all the seats destroyed, ger scary, but truly terrifying if the chain, and Boo opens his tuba unstuck, I then leave the the ghost glances at the still- it had fangs, but the keys try- arms, allowing Luigi to enter. bathroom to the auditorium. standing, unharmed plumber ing to pretend to be fangs is He puts his hand in its mouth, In the auditorium, Luigi before playing a gentle, soft enough without actual fangs. and he tries to pull it out, but screams when he realizes the ballet piece for a few ghosts The way the player beats the Boo-door turns around piano keys are playing on their with tutus and masks to dance him is they have to wait until with Luigi, and he’s able to pull own; once a spotlight floods a out onto the battlefield. The he reveals himself after try- his hand free to study it before picture of one of the captured way I found to beat them was ing to land on Luigi; the one looking at the new room. Toads, he cries out once he to use Burst to remove all the that’ll send a shockwave (the After sucking up the items sees the frame. After creeping masks, then to stun, knock one where its the full weight on the shelves, and Luigi in- up the stairs, glancing around them around, and let the Pol- of the piano, and not the one terested in an old-fashioned nervously, his first step onto tergust Double-Zero swallow where it will meet him keys- cash register, he goes over to the polished pale wood of the the five ballerina ghosts. At one first) is the one where it will this one table with bottles, and stage has a plank creaking. At point, I was draining the health reveal himself. As he’s glaring following the notes above the the sound, a ghost in a nice suit of one ghost when another at him, Luigi has to stun him; bottles gives out a gem behind usually only worn during big went in for an attack. Gasping after this, he’ll lay in the piano, a safe opened with the musical events, like a recital, appears. in horror, I dropped my Switch like in a coffin, and the piano 33 January 2021 CHARGING CORNER LUIGI’S DEATHLESS JOURNEY IN LAST RESORT HOTEL CONT’D will go on the stage. There, it’ll interesting; for the first two are watching her; after she which would reward Luigi with then expel explosive spheres rounds, it was solely a piano, growls, the two back away be- some money. The last row to and musical quarter notes, and then once Wolfgeist possessed fore floating, presumably, out the left will show a secret en- Luigi will have to fire one into the piano, there isn’t piano of the room. She pets the cat, trance where a chest of gold the piano, which will land on playing, at all in the controlled and growls until she trembles bars can be found. To the right its side. Luigi then has to use jumble of instruments. with suppressed fury at Luigi’s was nothing, but the Dark- Suction Shot to heave the pia- The Dark-Light Device frees victorious rescue. Light Device spoke a different no - which looks like a Grand Red , who bounces on his E. Gadd calls Luigi again. story; after sucking up Spirit Piano at around 500 to 1200 head before landing. He climbs After he confirms Luigi needs Balls and destroying the kingly pounds, and Luigi’s doing this to his feet, and a worried Luigi to save four more people, he armor, the player will find a with his arms, with a Polter- comes over to see if he’s alright. says, “Seems like there’s a bit gem. gust strapped to his back - off Red Toad leaps into Luigi’s of work to do, wouldn’t you Luigi gets out of the hallway the stage. The ghost will come arms after dancing on the spot say? Well, good luck! Heh heh to reveal a stone battlement out, and Luigi will be able to and cheering, and the plumb- heh!” This wasn’t the first time that travels toward a gladia- stun, knock him around, and er puts him down as he says, he laughed under his breath, tor arena. He goes over to the suck him up. Doing this three “Yay.” However, before he’s free, nor is it the last; it seems really balcony to watch two ghosts times, will have the ghost de- Luigi uses Burst accidentally mean to laugh when he’s ask- blowing those trumpets be- feated after the third act. Sorry, and a large outlet appears out ing how many more there is to fore medieval characters say, bad pun; I couldn’t resist the from a hidden trapdoor; I fig- help. That’s just like a firefight- “Hear ya, hear ya,” and usually temptation though. ured soon after getting to the er, helping spray the water, something about a royal ball or At the second round, Luigi twelfth floor, I had to return to laughing at seeing the amount a jousting match. This is some- kept getting hit, and I was wor- the Great Stage on the fourth of people stuck in a burning what the case, and yet not: A ried I’d have to redeem myself floor. That was nine floors, in- apartment. It’s beyond sick ghost shows Luigi the floor- by restarting the whole jour- cluding the second basement, and cruel. seven button, and motions his ney again. However, the piano away from where I was cur- The button trembles before hand for the plumber to come was exposing hearts, and his rently. Luigi presses the newly re-slot- to him. Luigi turns to see gates health went from 54 back to With the recent freedom of ted button. Then the elevator blocking the door opening. 99. During that same part, he Red Toad, Gadd calls to tell doors open to the sixth floor. The plumber cries out as two reappears next to Luigi before Luigi he’ll watch Red Toad as He trembles, whimpering, swords clash into one another. going back to his piano with he saves the other four. I won- glancing around nervously. As The ghosts are revealed, the 175 health, and I was think- dered about the Boo-door; how he takes his first step, an ax blue-purple battle gates keep ing I could end the battle right would Toad get in the other thuds to the ground; at the ele- Luigi in the hallway once they there, but he got out of Luigi’s room? Luigi will enter the usu- vator’s threshold, Luigi freezes notice him. The battle was sim- Poltergust after some hard joy- al way, but Red Toad will be left in place, swallows, then turns ple, and I was able to get to the stick movement. By the third behind, until a cloud will mag- his flashlight to the still suit next room. I did find out the time, the piano is destroyed, ically transport Toad to Luigi; I of armor, shaking so badly the ghosts, once they have wielded and he’s easy after this point. knew his programming will be Poltergust is even quivering, a sword, will not cower if their Luigi picks up the floor-six locked on Luigi, and the cre- which up this point hasn’t hap- friends are being attacked by elevator button as he says, ators used the transport-cloud pened any other time the cow- Luigi. One of them was so bra- “Yeah.” After looking at it for to send him over to Luigi, and ardly plumber trembles. zen as to attack the plumber a moment in what seems to this was the easiest way besides He enters this medieval while his friend was being be pride and delight, he adds, making Toad have an anima- theme park. An iron gate keeps knocked to the floor. “Oh, bravo,” eyeing it as it then tion of him entering alongside Luigi from getting further into After the battle, I noticed gleams. He puts it away in what the plumber. the floor. However, a ball can stone bricks not centered prop- I can guess is a hidden com- Red Toad enters the eleva- be pulled by Gooigi so Lu- erly, and using Suction Shot partment to the Poltergust, by tor, and Luigi and him depart; igi can get through. Walking revealed a chest with another the click that sounds after it Toad to Gadd, and Luigi to a over a drawbridge and going gem and coins. Out of the Ar- vanishes from sight. He smiles new floor. Somewhere in the through a door has Luigi en- mory and into the Stairwell by before a bark has him turn hotel, Hellen Gravely is watch- ter a room with suits of armor. what the map said, has some to see Polterpup appear. The ing from a security camera I remember in Dark Moon spikes that hurt Luigi if he tries barking ghost pup kicks the with a ghostly purple demon of the armor would slash at the to pass. Gooigi can, but he is a stage, revealing the stairs, and a ghost cat in her, as the dev- plumber with swords. They do little slower though. With the vanishes after one last high- ilous feline purrs in content at not try to hurt him, and Luigi Stairwell over, it’s the Cellar for pitched puppy bark. Now that being stroked by her owner. destroys them with metal clat- both plumber and goo-partner. boss fight’s soundtrack was Two ghosts in front of a desk tering thanks to Suction Shot, In the Cellar are barrels of to- January 2021 34 CHARGING CORNER LUIGI’S DEATHLESS JOURNEY IN LAST RESORT HOTEL CONT’D matoes. fell through the trap door. worst thing of all happened: Luigi, closing the door to Luigi and I cry out as a ghost Climbing the ladder will get Gooigi was tugging the chain the Coliseum as he flashes his explodes from one of the to- Luigi to the Cage-Lift Room. to save Luigi, and I woke Luigi, flashlight around, calls out, matoes barrels. The ghost has a The Cage-Lift Room has a who couldn’t escape thanks to “Hello?” The boss ghost glanc- shield. The way to get rid of the windmill-powered elevator. the tiniest sliver of door keep- es around, and noticing Luigi shields is to use Suction Shot. Gooigi can send Luigi down ing him trapped with death as he glares at him, goes over to Oozers - those yellow, lanky to the lower floor. At the lower closing in from both sides. this metal horse-like creature ghosts - are there to throw floor, Luigi uses the Dark-Light In my panic, I released the with armor. He’ll possess it, apples at Luigi. At one point, I Device to get to the Water- ball, and Luigi barely slipped and starts the jousting match was using Suction Shot at one wheel Room, which has a key past death before the spikes with a crowd of cardboard- of those shield-holding blue to the other room in the lower slammed into one another. I ghost spectators, who’ll boo or ghosts called Goob, when one floor of the Cage-Lift Room. took a moment to take in the applause depending on who is of the Oozers tosses an toma- The way to get the key is to realization the deathless run attacked. Luigi dives away from toes at Luigi, who stops Suction destroy the pulleys releasing could have been eradicated in King MacFrights. He scrambles Shot. The plunger is no longer arrows at Luigi, who can take that one sliver of cell-door bar- to his feet to eye the ghost wish- on the shield, and I didn’t real- the ball-and-chain beside the ring Luigi from safety. ing to cause Luigi harm while ize this; so Luigi was just try- contraption near the entrance. The Bridge Room was easy entertaining his crowd of 2D ing to suck up a wooden shield. Gooigi is immune to the ar- but frustrating: Power the cardboard cutouts of ghosts. The ghost slaps Luigi until he rows, so he can deal with the windmill with the Poltergust The best way I found to stun loses twenty health points after other side, which has a small to connect the two halves of him with a fully charged Scro- Oozer had removed ten with stream of water keeping Gooigi the bridge so Luigi can cross bulb is to corner Luigi, wait for his tomato. from snatching the key in the safely. (Player Tip: The mo- the right moment, and blast The battle after that wasn’t chest once past the water. ment either Gooigi or Luigi the blinding flash of light. too hard except I used Burst to Back in the Cage-Lift Room, reveal the windmill to connect The ghost and his metal horse dodge a tomato and stopped the elevator windmill sparks the two halves, use the other’s will collapse, and Luigi will be trying to suck up the shield be- before a lot of those red and clone to blow at the windmill, able to use the Suction Shot to fore the ghost could slap Luigi. square-shaped ghosts called and use it until the left half is knock him around. The last I was able to find the key to get Hammers, but smaller, expel against the wall, and the right round of Suction Shot will de- into the next room, and got an- out of the elevator. The battle is facing the player; then, use stroy the metal horse and ar- other gem by climbing a ladder. was quick and Luigi didn’t get the Poltergust’s suction to con- mor, leaving MacFrights with The next room - the Ante- hurt. nect both halves without the a shield and sword. King Mac- chamber - is the first major In the Dungeons, after insert- hassle or the frustration most Frights spins as he tries to hit puzzle room. Metal spikes stop ing the key from the Water- players experience.) Gooigi can Luigi; once done, he’ll be too the plumber from progressing, wheel Room, water rains down enjoy himself by going over to dizzy to defend himself from but Gooigi can slip through the moment Luigi enters, scar- the chest in the spikes below Luigi. the spikes to the door. After ing him as a fish flops around. I the bridge, and also gathering the goo-clone pulls a ball-and- tried sucking up the fish; it was any loose change where the le- chain, three chains with black too big, so Luigi blew it against thal spikes are. With the Bridge This article will con- balls at the ends fall at the the wall, which made it smaller Room over, the next room is tinue in our next issue. other side of the room, where to suck up. The key to the next the Cart Storage Room. Stay tuned! Luigi is. One has a metal ball room is in the cell, which has This room is simply blocking hit Luigi on the head, cruelly water surrounding the key. The the arrows trying to hurt Luigi removing five health points; door opened thanks to Gooigi by using carts. One cart is easy: another gives out dollars; the tugging another ball-and- beside Luigi on a track. Using last has the plumber thud to chain; Luigi was able to get the Gooigi, it was in position. The the ground as a hidden trap key. However, a ghost splashed next one had to be revealed door reveals itself. Once on the a wooden pail of water on using the Dark-Light Device. ground, it’s a matter of Luigi Gooigi, melting him, and walls Once across, Luigi is forced getting a metal cup-like holder with spikes were clattering into battle when a few ghosts at the end of a pole to light it closer with sparks blazing from try to stop. They were simple, with flames and burn the cob- metal scraping against metal. and he entered the hallway to webs. A ball-and-chain is at the WIth the plumber trapped, the Coliseum. The hallway has other side of the room. Tug- Gooigi has to fight to save his a treasure room hidden by one ging it shows a trap door with living, breathing clone. of the curtains and revealed by a ladder where Gooigi was; he The battle was easy, but the the Dark-Light. 35 January 2021 CHARGING CORNER CAN ’S ORIGAMI JOURNEY STOP KING OLLY FOLDING ? This is part four of a review on Paper Mario: The Origami King for the Switch released July 17, 2020. The second part of this article can be read in our December issue beginning on page 33. By Katie Stafford Staff Reporter Inside the fog, Toad will say severe agony after it stays fold- he can’t see through it, and ed for a moment. Bobby then wishing he had a sea chart to hops away to take cover behind navigate, he then backs his a table, and trembling visibly, boat out of the haze, but not stammers, “D-dude! Come on! before telling them a legend You can’t just SCREAM like of the legendary Captain Ode. that. Scared me half to death!” The legend says a Toad trav- The Toad hasn’t gotten up off of https://www.posters.cz/plakaty Source: Photo eled underwater because he the floor, and Bobby goes over owned a legendary sea chart. to Mario again. “I think this He says they’re just tall tales, Toad is a member of the crew and wishes he had one, if it here. Let’s, uh . . . let him rest.” weren’t a legend, because then I just knew my heart wouldn’t they could get through the fog. stop pounding until I got off He then steers out of the fog to this horrible cruise ship. have Bobby cheer as they found Bobby tells Mario the eleva- the . tor isn’t working, and that must Sea Captain Toad tells them be because power is out in the the Princess Peach is the fa- whole ship; because the dark mous cruise ship, and then room should have been a give- wonders why it stopped in the away, Bobby wonders which middle of nowhere. With the part of the ship has the power gate open to let them out, the controls. At the lounge, Bob- young Bom-omb says they’ll omb comments on how this find what they’re looking for place has been hit hard, be- in the VIP stateroom on the cause he remembers it being a second level, and there’s an cool lounge, since the big ocean elevator inside the main hall. view could be seen outside a Inside the main hall, it’s dark window. After a wave battle, and large with patch jobs to fix. I talk to a Toad, silently tell- Creepy music plays as Bobby ing Mario, Bobby, and I there says it looks even worse than he was something big pounding journey ended without Mario terrible will blow up in my face remembered, and tells Mario the glass, and I see part of the with his two friends. “I guess in concerns of the young Bom- the reason the ship’s damaged glass is shattered. Once hitting you’d understand better than omb (pun, sadly, intended). is a long story, and he’ll tell him it with the hammer, Mario and most, Big M. You’re risking I cry out in shock once some later. Fear thrills through me - I Bob-omb can slip out to a save your life to battle these Folded Folded Soldiers come down in was now getting frightened by block. Soldiers . . .” Somehow I cannot webs, after Bobby wonders if the creepy music, and the fact On the deck, Bobby walks think of Mario dying in battle Folded Soldiers did it, as the Bobby knew the reason and away from Mario, telling him - it’s so foregin that it doesn’t hole looked like it was done wasn’t telling me was adding to they were on the deck now. He seem even possible to hap- on purpose. Once the wave my fear. Even Bobby has a bad freezes, and his eyes closed, pen, and yet, I’ve gotten game battle is over, Bobby looks at feeling about the place as well, then explaining to the plump overs. Bobby apologizes for the what seems to be a generator, since he begs Mario to get in- plumber, “Hey, Big M . . . How monologue then runs over to and finds an opening, and they side the elevator, find the item, much do you know about us Mario again. have to search for a piece to and get out of here. Finally, Bob-ombs? The life of a Bob- In the engine room, Bobby open it. Bobby and I agree on some- omb is pretty short, all things says the control panel is fishy, While climbing some stairs, thing; I don’t want to stay in considered. That’s why we try but it looks like to me a few Bobby says he stepped on this scary ship any more than to make the most of the time confetti-tosses will do the something. I cry out in shock you do, Bob-omb. we have.” Something like grief trick. Spending time now with as a Purple Toad raises up, I unfold a Toad I think is pos- for Bobby pierces my heart; I’d Bobby feels strange after that then lowers back down; Bob- sessed by some kind of demon, grown to like him, and Oliva, monologue of his, and I can’t by trembles violently behind because it screams like it’s in and I didn’t want to see the stifle the feeling something Mario, calming himself down January 2021 36 CHARGING CORNER CAN PAPER MARIO’S ORIGAMI JOURNEY STOP KING OLLY FOLDING MUSHROOM KINGDOM CONT’D by telling himself it was just a I cry out, my JoyCons rum- it, making them camouflaged look like tentacles appear from crewmember who snuck up on bling hard enough for the sen- to the player, with only the on the other side of the win- him, and this crewmember was sation to linger while my heart sight of slight movement and dow. I stare at them, as I know unconscious. I don’t bother races, as I see the ship shud- crinkling of their origami bod- they mean trouble. with the Toad at the moment; I der. Bobby exclaims, “Whoa! ies betraying their presents. I “What are you doing?” I whis- go upstairs and go inside what That jolt . . . It can’t be . . . We notice boxes not covered, and per, fear and suspicion guiding looks like the place where the might be in real trouble here, see it’s a dry place to avoid the me to know I’ll have to fight Captain steers the ship. The Big M! We have to hurry to tar stuff. If the player gets stuck whoever those tentacles be- young Bom-omb calls out to that VIP stateroom! Let’s grab in it, Mario and Bobby will long to. My heart must have Big M. Mario and I gap as our what we came for, then get the move slowly, but they’ll be able stopped, then lurched as it eyes widen in shock as a Spike heck off this ship!” I smile, try- to get out. shattered the glass. Both Ma- Folded Solder follows Mario, ing to play it off that Bobby’s Something told me to pass rio and Bobby are sent on the and I realize this Folded Sol- worried about a Kraken, which the stuff and get to the deck; floor, whether because fear of dier swallowed Bobby whole. is a folklore, and doesn’t exist, somehow, I felt I had to fight being harmed or the force of The Spike Folded Soldier spits but my heart pounds as I real- whatever made the goopy stuff, the glass breaking had them him out, and raises him like ize I’m facing the terrors of the and the deck was the only fall, as the yellow box is taken he’s a spiky ball he’s about to unknown. In my article on a place on this creepy cruise that by a tentacle. Bobby leaps to throw at Mario; Bobby cries, long Luigi’s Mansion 3 death- seemed halfway plausible for a his feet to shout at it to give the “Big M! HELP! I’m a Bom-omb, less run, I had to fear Luigi dy- battlefield. On the deck, noth- box back. Mario climbs to his not a bonbon!” The first thing ing; meanwhile, in this article, ing happens, so I go explor- feet and dusts himself off; he to happen in the battle is Bob- I have the unknown to face, ing, and I find a Max Life-Up comes over to Bob-omb, listen- by connecting his feet into the which is scarier than death. Heart, giving Mario’s HP from ing to him explaining they had Folded Soldier holding him be- But this is a video game, but I 95 to 115. Bobby sees, because to get the box back, and the fore he flees to take his position had some near-death experi- the power is on, the elevator is monster might be on the bow. by settling down, eyes closed, ences, like getting an infection working, and urges Mario to Mario nods to the determined waiting patiently for his turn when I was thirteen-years-old. hurry. I’m too busy wonder- Bom-omb. to either fight or land right on The only way the doctors knew ing what he remembers to be On the way to the bow, the his face. With the battle done, about it was I had my appen- fully frightened of this myste- thing keeps causing the cruise I find a lever, and Bobby asks dix removed, and in that case rious goopy monster, and on to tremble as my JoyCons vi- what that can do. However, I I was facing the unknown and the next floor, Bobby says, “Oh, brate. Mario and Bobby see the have an idea. death, since I didn’t know how no! It’s already here!” and I’m yellow box still attached to the Bobby wonders if they did I’d survive appendix-removal getting suspicious of him now, tentacle; it retreats just as they it, now that the level is in the surgery. For some reason, my and even more so when he tells get close. My JoyCons rumble opening of the generator, but grandmother found it hilarious Mario he found the VIP state- as the ship trembles; a massive it takes three hammer slams of when I seriously asked the sur- room, and to go inside it - when Gooper Blooper appears. Bob- frightening them both to have geon, “What are my chances of the whole place outside the by calls him a jerk for rough- the power come on as the play- survival?” She explained it was needed room is covered thickly ing him up; I would ask what er’s JoyCons to rumble. Bobby’s funny because I had nothing with black goop. However, I he meant, but I think we have delighted the power’s back on. to be afraid of; however, I was swallow my suspicion Bobby is more pressing issues to tackle “Great job, Big M! I knew you fearing for me life, didn’t know trying to harm Mario because first. He tells Mario to fight, were a take-CHARGE kind of what the survival rate for the he just knows what’s there, and because Olivia is counting on guy! Heh. Get it? Because of surgery was, and I was in se- he won’t tell me; I realize, in them. Bobby runs off - to pre- the electricity?” He then mut- vere agony from my inflamed reality he knows what’s there, sumably watch on a lounge ters, “Oof. Was I funnier when appendix, so I see it that I had but he’s too scared to talk chair. I had amnesia?” Bobby, you’re every right to find out if my about. It’s bad enough Bobby At first, its tentacle will cause just as equally as funny now, chances of living were higher seems to be reliving both his a shockwave after slamming then when you were before - than the chance of death. worst memory and nightmare. the deck, and Maro has to use it’s now you’re slightly embar- In one room, something Inside the VIP stateroom, his hammer; a little while later, rassed by your jokes and puns black and sticky-looking like there’s a yellow box; Bobby it’ll shoot puddles of goop on that makes you explain them tar swallows the floor and tells Mario to get the box. He the deck to slow the player, off. Trust me, Bob-omb, I have coats the walls; Bobby then explains he put a lock code so but it’s the same thing over- the same problem: I explain says, “Black goop? Ohhh, no. only he could open it; he then all. Then it’s hitting it with the the obvious about any joke I We’re DEFINITELY in trouble talks to himself by telling his hammer - first, it’s King Olly’s tell, and I’m someone who isn’t now. Quick, Big M! We’ve gotta brain to think. He tests out a seal where it’s left eye is, then funny at all. Bobby wonders if move!” I gasp when I notice the combination while Mario waits it’s body - like any of the Ma- the elevator is back on. Folded Soldiers are covered in patiently. Three things that cho enemies. When it was over, 37 January 2021 CHARGING CORNER CAN PAPER MARIO’S ORIGAMI JOURNEY STOP KING OLLY FOLDING MUSHROOM KINGDOM CONT’D I asked, “That’s it?” as confetti for a character I’ve grown to and Olivia come in. And then . Meanwhile, my tears run and crew members rained enjoy a lot, and knowing that . . those fireworks that we saw down my face as I, half-laugh- down. said character will be met with together at Shogun Studios . ing, moan, “Oh! The bomb! Oh, Bobby calls out to Mario, then a terrible fate; I realize my eyes . . They made me remember. Bobby!” I realize I’m laughing runs over, telling him he knew are burning and blurring with The fight with the Blooper, my from trying not to completely he pummeled him. He sees tears. fuse, my buds . . . Boom! Ev- lose it by a fictional character in the box survive, and after put- The screen then blackens erything came back to me. I’m a video game; however, I allow ting in the code, then explains, to show a brownish very old- so glad my memories are back. myself a few moments to cry “Bob-omb got . . . a SUPER- school picture of the Princess I remember everything . . . In- (partly from laughter; mainly important, Olivia-saving item! Peach. “A while back . . . I was cluding a way to rescue Olivia.” from sorrow) over a Bom-omb Ta-ta-ta daa! Now we’ll be able traveling aboard the Princess It goes to Mario, head bowed, sacrificing himself for his two to rescue Olivia!” I gasp, my Peach with my buds. My Bob- eyes closed. “See, I had a lot of new friends. I have only one eyes widening; the item looks ombrades. My friends. We had buds . . . but I lost my bestest- final message for Bobby: Bob- like something Bobby can self- pitched in to share the VIP best bud a long time ago. He omb, your sacrifice hasn’t been destruct himself with, as I re- stateroom. Sure, some of us got scrapped in an accident. in vain, because I’ll help save member his monologue about had to sleep on the floor, but . His name was . . . also Bob- Olivia. My grief and laughter Bob-omb’s not having a very . . The open sea . . . The salty omb. Heh. Olivia would have turn to molten anger directed long life, and are forced to en- breeze . . . It was the best trip had such a hard time telling at King Olly; he’s responsible joy every second of their lives. ever!” us apart. I always kept his fuse for Bobby’s noble sacrifice, and A crew member who happens The screen darkens to show with me to remember him by . I couldn’t wait to fight him in to be the ship’s captain comes, a brown photo of the Goop- . . until the amnesia hit. So it battle, because I now need to thanking Mario, and explain- er Blooper slamming all of just sat where I left it . . . in that avenge Bobby for his heroic ac- ing it might have been dark its tentacles, Captain Toad VIP stateroom on the ship.” tion. Reader, have I lost it to cry and scary, but he didn’t sob un- screaming, while Bom-ombs Mario looks up, gaping; the over a fictional character? In controllably, and if anyone says with about-to-explode fuses ei- camera goes to Bobby, hooked my defense: I made the prom- he did, then it’s all lies. This ther jumped into battle or were up to the fuse, and says, “Big ise he’ll be there to see King jerks me out of my horror. Cap- sent flying. Bobby continues: M . . . If I could save a friend Olly stopped, alongside Mario, tain Toad continues that they “But then . . . that monstrous like this, it means I’ve become Olivia, and I; now the vow is a saved all the passengers on Blooper attacked the ship. the Bom-omb I always wanted broken promise! board, and that is why the ship We did our best to defend the to be. This is what every Bob- “Wha . . . what happened? was halted. Bobby’s relieved Peach, but it was too strong. omb hopes for - a chance to Did you save me, Mario? Thank everyone’s safe, and tells Mario That’s when it happened . . .” change something for the bet- you so much!” I wince at Ol- to come hurry up to head off The screen blackens, and it ter. To make an impact. ivia’s words; didn’t she care for to Sweetpaper Valley and save shows a Bom-omb with its at- “B-big M . . . I . . . I had so Bobby? “Getting flattened hurt Olivia. However, Captain Toad the-ready fuse without its fuse. much fun traveling with you a LOT, but now I’m back to my stops them to explain they have “My fuse . . . got knocked loose. and Olivia. It’s been . . . a blast. foldy and fancy-free self! Wow, to save the passengers, but the It flew right off the boat, and so Heh, Sorry, I’m kinda ner- the whole rock is just . . . gone! fog will make it hard; he tells did I. Next thing I know, I’m in vous.” He whispers, “Thanks Blasted into confetti! How did them to tell him if the fog lift- the Great Sea.” Next, I see Bob- for the fuse, best bud . . .” He that happen, anyway?” An ed. by in a puddle of water with then continues, “And thank icicle seemed to stab my heart After spending more than Toads at the port; he explains, you, Mario!” And this is the that she didn’t see that Bobby 30,000 coins and rewarded “Not sure what happened next first time he called Mario by wasn’t there. “Did you get some with the Silver Membership . . . but I washed up at Toad his name, and not Big M. “For kind of dynamite hammer or Card at the Shop, which gives Town. No fuse, no memories, everything!” Mario, horrified, something? Just . . . kapow! Or 30% of a discount, it’s Sweetpa- no clue . . .” runs to stop him, but he’s too what? Wait . . . HUH?!” per Valley for Mario and Bobby The screen shows some cry- late as Bobby explodes into Mario’s head is bowed, his to save Olivia. At the boulder, ing Toads waving farewell to a cloud of smoke and fire. I hat hiding his face; I swallow Bobby says, “Big M . . . Thank Bobby as he travels on a dirt mash the A button on my right as she looks around for Bobby. you for believing me. And tak- path that looks like it leads to JoyCon, while I press any ran- “Where’s Bobby? Is he around? ing me to the Great Sea. Sorry Picnic Road. “So off I went, lost dom button on my left in the Don’t tell me he missed all this.” I was so hush-hush about what and alone, on a journey to try hope I’ll be able to save Bob- Olivia, you don’t understand; happened on that boat . . . and and remember . . . well, any- by. My JoyCons slip out of my he didn’t miss much. Mario about the item in that lockbox. thing.” hands, thudding to the floor, turns around, and I whimper, I’ll tell you everything.” I blink, The screen goes back to the as I watch the dark smoke and fighting to keep from crying all trying to force down the grief present, where Bobby turns to- blazing flames. over for Bobby once more. “. . . wards Maro. “That’s where you January 2021 38 CHARGING CORNER CAN PAPER MARIO’S ORIGAMI JOURNEY STOP KING OLLY FOLDING MUSHROOM KINGDOM CONT’D Uh, Mario?” she asks. working or use the bathroom. I by appears, surrounded by blue She rushes over to Mario, aim- Her gaze goes to the place the find out some have seen Olivia; light. When I see him, I call out, ing for his pocket. She slams boulder was. “Wait. Did he . . one even asked Mario if he was “Bobby!” Then, I realize: “He’s into the mask, then returns to .? There was a loud bang, and the reason to have the “bee girl” still dead! He’s still dead!” I where she was a moment ago. now the rock is gone . . . “ She crying in the first place. Mole, whisper. Bobby then says, “Lis- “Oh my gosh! First you have to trembles, probably swallowing that isn’t the reason; a friend of ten . . . Olivia’s having a hard remove that ridiculous thing back her own tears. “No. No! It hers just saved her by sacrific- time with this whole thing. If from your head. I CANNOT can’t be!” she roars. She floats ing his own life for hers. A few she doesn’t pull through, it’s take you seriously!” Mario re- into the mine-shaft tunnel; I ask Mario if he’s seen Bowser, like everything I did was in moves it, and Olivia rushes don’t go after her right away; and they were following his or- vain. But you’re Big M, Big M! back into her pocket. I turn off my Switch instead. ders: To dig for some unknown If anyone can cheer her up, it’s At the rock-pile, I see Bobby’s I needed time to get ready for reason. After waking up a mole you. Just think . . . what could spirit isn’t there anymore. Ol- bed, since it’s bedtime, and I who was taking a nap for three you do to put a smile on her ivia says now they’re back on had to get used to Bobby be- years in a rock, I got to a door face? They say laughter is the track, they can get to the yel- ing gone in the game, when I that was too far to reach before best medicine, right? So maybe low streamer; she asks Mario vowed I would have him there the mole-rock showed a tunnel you could make her laugh . . . “ if “sometimes a good cry is all for the end of the journey - and to get to it. He closes his eyes, and Bobby’s you need, right?” She turns to not that kind of ending, either. The dark room appears to spirit stays on the pieces of the Mario, explaining to him she The next morning, after read- be a storage room, though it’s boulder he blew up to save Ol- got a Bobby-like feeling that ing a book for a while, I return practically bare. Slanted dark ivia. had the folds of the back of to the game. I’ve realized I am blue light pours onto Olivia, Even though I know there’s a her neck stand up. However, not finishing this article for sniffling, on a log. The princess time and place for this, and this she dismisses it as simply her the article’s sake - I’m finish- sniffs and whimpers, then says, isn’t one of them, I have Mario imagination, and it was prob- ing the article and game for “. . . Bobby sacrificed himself put on the Metroid Space War- ably her memories. Bobby’s sake, because there’s for me . . . Now he’s gone . . . rior Mask. Olivia looks up, then Past the door, I free a Toad now a certain origami king How . . . how could he do that? continues to cry. I try the Don- who explains Mario can drive who needs to be dealt with be- I . . . I don’t know how I can go key Kong Jungle King Mask his new Boot Car Type B, and cause he caused Bobby to sac- on . . .” Mario bows his head for next; I get the same reaction. because he’s been given the rifice himself. All around me, I a moment before he gets off the I saved the best one for last; I whistle, he’s agreeing to the hear hissing, thumping paws, log he sat on. I try to see if I can have Mario stomp around like leasing policy He tells Mario the sound of teeth biting into use the hammer to force her to a , because that’s the to stick to the desert, because something, and every now and show any sign of anything oth- one that had her screeching the tires can’t take any other then I see a flash of pale and/ er than to cry with her hands with laughter back in Shagun terrain, and once the whistle or dark fur; I let my five ferrets covering her eyes; however, Studios. This time, I got a dif- is blown, the Boot Car will find out of their cage, and they’re all Mario sits back down, listening ferent reaction, but not the one him. I laugh when I see Mario enjoying ferret freedom. Even to her sob, “He’s just . . . gone I wanted or foresaw coming. in the brown Boot Car; the car though my ferrets enjoy play- . . . I’m too sad to move.” I de- “. . . Oh, that’s not fair, Ma- looks like his boots, just big- time, I can’t ignore the aching cide to look around the tunnel, rio. Stop trying to force me to ger, with only one, and it’s on pain in my heart, the feeling I which is called the Breezy Tun- laugh with that!” She looks wheels. Toad tells the player just lost a close friend of mine, nel, to make her pull herself up. “I mean . . . it IS quite ri- and Mario to use the left joy- nor the fact I knew I changed out of her grief just enough for diculous. Heh. Heh. Heehee!” stick on the JoyCon to steer, as a gamer, whether for better her to continue on their way. She then raises herself off the and to go faster is to hold down or worse I couldn’t tell, even to Once I leave the room, I see log; she looks much better not the ZR button; the ZR button, myself. all the moles aren’t there. Some moping on that log. “I needed Toad explains, can even take The yellowish-orange glow run past Mario; one then ex- that. Thank you, Mario. I just care of Folded Soldiers. I acci- from lanterns are high on the plains a big rock exploded out- can’t sit around wallowing in dentally get into a battle, and rocky walls, mine tracks lead side, and they gathered all the misery. Bobby wouldn’t have while fleeing, I find it strange further down the tunnel. I pieces to look for some shiny wanted that!” She floats over to to be in battle without Bobby; find a Monty Mole, who tells things to give to Bowser. On him. “Let’s . . . let’s keep going. it’ll take a while getting used to Mario a bee buzzed in with the way to the other side of the We have to stop my brother, fighting without him by Ma- tears on its face, and buzzed tunnel, which I found a Magic no matter what! Thanks again, rio’s side. further down the tunnel. Past Circle earlier, a voice, text in Mario. And thanks in advance Outside on purple rock, Ol- the mole, I see wooden doors blue letters, calls out weakly, for all your future heroics, too. ivia is surprised this is the des- built into the rock; it turns out “Big M . . .” A blue light emits All riiiight! Let’s see if we can ert, because of how cold and a place for workers to rest after from the pile of boulders. Bob- find that yellow streamer!” dark it is; she was expecting 39 January 2021 CHARGING CORNER CAN PAPER MARIO’S ORIGAMI JOURNEY STOP KING OLLY FOLDING MUSHROOM KINGDOM CONT’D the sun to be out and making looks?” Since I didn’t have any- me, will it? Nope - it won’t. only do I find another tower, them hot. She returns to her thing, I explored to find some- I put down my JoyCons, and but a tower with a red Magic pocket, and Mario drives up a thing. I didn’t find much, but a clapping, I say, “Just dig down. Circle; its fiery design looks hill. At Scorching Sandpaper small deserted ruin with Fold- Just dig down with your hands.” like a majestic phoenix with its Desert, Olivia comes back out, ed Soldiers, and I found where Olivia tells Mario, “I can’t read wings spread out. Olivia will and says the desert is really big, the yellow streamer is. I also it at all. Sorry. I guess I got ask if it was a new Magic Cir- and it must be a desert because found several glowing spots your hopes up, huh? It’s writ- cle, and she never seen it be- of how vast it is. She turns to that do nothing except have ten in mysterious letters that fore, wondering what it could Mario, wondering if the sun is Olivia say they’re cute but do I can’t understand! Just when be used for. hiding because it’s angry (nice nothing; however, the steamer my spirits were so high . . . I Beside the glowing red Magic angry-sun reference, Ninten- is much more important. don’t know what to do, and Circle, is a big container; Ol- do); she jumps, as she sees the “Hey! It’s the end of the the sun is just gone . . . I just ivia says the big jar looks like sun is a black disc. She says it’s streamer! We did it!” Olivia need a ray of light. ONE bright it’s filled with “water or some- like the sky has a black hole, cheers. Its spool seems to be ray would do so much for me thing,” then she describes it as and she then wonders how or buried in purple sand, right right now . . .” She looks up to “dark and ooky” and she ad- who could do it. She tells Maro next to a raised platform with see pink, blue, and yellow rays vises Mario not to drink it. She to head for the streamer, since a stone tablet seemingly block- in the sky, clearly coming from complains how foul it smells, the sun is not scorching hot. ing the way in. She turns to stare a light source on the ground. and she tells Mario to see it as A small platform with the at it. “You know, it wouldn’t be “Whoa! There are at least three another warning not to drink pattern of the sun is near a save easy to get out. Following the rays of light over there. Maybe it. I patch a statue with writing block; Olivia asks if it’s a plat- red streamer and then the blue even four! Heehee, they’re giv- Mario nor Olivia can’t read; I form, and if the pattern is of one . . . We’ve had some hard ing me hope again. And they’re head back to Snif City to find the sun. A pot of gold is there moments, and some sad ones. so beautiful! Rays that could someone who can read the at the head of it; however, Ol- But now, finding the yellow only come from a lively place signs. While exploring, I found ivia says the gold is actually streamer like this . . . it feels filled with lots of helpful peo- an Ice Flower, and it turns out oatmeal, then corrects herself like we finally caught a break!” ple, right? Maybe there’s even Snifits claim property by sniff- by saying it’s sand, and asking Even though I want to believe someone there who can read ing it. if they should put something Olivia, I can’t; something’s tell- those mysterious letters for At the castle, which is guard- there. I don’t bother, because I ing me losing and grieving over us!” ed by Snifits, it turns out to be know nothing I have right now Bobby wasn’t going to have the Palm trees guard the gleam- the Snif City Royal Hotels; Ol- will work. At a tower that spills game be nice and let a sad- ing city, with a massive castle ivia comments they have been out the streamer, Olivia won- den gamer have a freebie, un- that looks like it was stripped working hard, and wonders if ders if this is a way inside, and less Nintendo doesn’t care or right out of Aladdin, from the they deserve a little rest, and they should try it. The camera rushed the game. I can tell it sandy cliffs. “Wow, look at this! maybe even room service. The moves up, showing the tower never crossed Nintendo’s mind The lights! The sights! It’s all guards don’t stop Mario enter- as a single light shining at its to rush this game they cared so bright! What a night! I’m a ing. left topmost window. She says about; it has a lot of life. poet, right?” Olivia says at see- A pool has geysers shooting the tower almost reminds her “Wait. Where’s the end? It is ing the city. I leave the Boot into the air, with the tallest and of someone they know. buried in the sand?” she asks. Car, and explore the gleaming center geyster supporting the Inside, a crackling fire il- “Oh no! What are we going to city. A Snifit greets Mario, Oliv- weight of a Snifit riding it on luminates the cracked white- do? We can’t dig into the sand, ia, and I to Snif City, which is a a surfboard. Some Snifits relax and-black checkered floor and can we?” I expect you to; you desert oasis for Snifits, and says on lounge chairs, while one or brick walls in yellow-orange two have hands for a reason, to disregard its other name, if two look around, and one lazes light. Olivia then says, “Whew! and hands don’t just grab or Mario heard of it. Olivia reads in the pool. I can almost smell That was a lot of stairs. For touch stuff: they can be used a sign, “Sit Sniffy? That’s a the chlorine from the pool, and you, I mean! Thanks for carry- to dig. She turns to the raised weird name . . . but I can’t deny hear the rustle of the two palm ing me so often. Do you think platform, and says there’s that this place looks really trees’ leaves rustling and the we’re in this lanky tower’s head something written on the base, cool! With this many folks bus- roar of the three geysers. Also, yet?” She returns to her pocket, and wonders if it’s just instruc- tling around, we’re sure to find there’s a DJ with two golden but at a window, she comes out tions to dig down. Uh . . . you someone who can help us with statues near the pool; the DJ and adds, “Hey, it’s a cute little don’t need instructions to dig the mysterious letters, Mario!” will tell Mario to scram, be- window where you can see down; you can use your hands. She returns to her pocket. cause he doesn’t take requests. outside or place a little knick- Olivia, it’s not even rocket Before exploring Snif City, The next room - which looks knack! Should we try putting science; however, the game I look around the Scorching like the front lobby - has di- something there to see how it wouldn’t make it that easy for Sandpaper Desert, and not agonal white-striped orange January 2021 40 CHARGING CORNER CAN PAPER MARIO’S ORIGAMI JOURNEY STOP KING OLLY FOLDING MUSHROOM KINGDOM CONT’D flooring, which clashes horri- dark blue; I find out some of the three, it’s blue. And the picture talking about something - the bly with the pink rug; however, doors are locked, while some is more perplexing than the clerk wondering if it’s archery the dark blue stairs, some with are able for a plump plumber others. A red figure, its palms arts - for hours. Olivia can’t pale yellow lights, look really to explore the room. The light- up to its shoulders, stands at wait to meet the professor. At nice and cool against its or- ning is dim as dusk, and it gives the center. Yellow bird-shaped the door, the key isn’t working. ange-wood banister. The walls out a welcoming and calm aura things surround him, and near Olivia asks what’s going on. are a slightly lighter shade of to the corridor. In the first one yellow picture is an orange “Ah. Pardon me! You two!” blue than the stairs, and there room, a Snifit complains his cone; the wide, blunt side of someone calls. The clerk Snifit are white beams that add deco- neighbor doesn’t shut up about the cone stops just before an runs up, explaining Professor ration to the bare walls; plus, an “Ancient One,” and he men- orange-edged square half- Toad was upgraded to a dif- the white arches where hall- tions the hotel’s walls are too swallowed by the wall. Like the ferent room - sorry, the clerk ways start. Other than the pink thin. On the walls are words other three, there’s more words nearly said he downgraded the rug against the white-striped Mario can’t read. I decide to in the strange language. A pur- professor before hastily chang- orange floor, the whole main head upstairs. ple-edged wooden door greets ing to the word upgrade. He lobby looks really cool, and Olivia tells Mario to look at Mario at the end of the bewil- tells them both to follow him clashes nicely with one anoth- the picture on the wall. On dering wall-pictures; however, to see the professor. The clerk er’s colors. the left wall is a big circle con- the door is locked. I decide to is at the right-hand hallway, Then, on the way to the save nected to four smaller ones; try the front desk, in the hope and says it’s the first door to block in the main lobby, I real- I think it’s referring to King of him giving them a key. their left, and apologizes for ized the city wasn’t called Snif Olly taking over the papery The Snifit welcomes them, the mix-up. City, but Shroom City. It doesn’t Mushroom Kingdom, but that saying it’s a pleasure seeing Inside, Olivia says she wants help the city’s defense that Sni- doesn’t sound right, because travelers like them; however, room service, then defends fits saw a Toad in the Royal Ho- of the other two pictures on the hotel is booked, but the herself: This is her first time in tel. I’m then wondering what’s the wall. The center wall has a desert is free for the taking to a hotel. She rushes to the bed, going on. Did the Snifits -at circle like the first one, a yellow take a little nap. Olivia explains and starts rolling around on it tack all the Toads, who could ray pointing at an orange thing they weren’t looking for a place before returning to Mario. She have been living in the myste- that looks like the towers I’ve to see sleep - they’re looking says they really don’t have time rious and unknown history of been seeing; beside the tower for someone to read the words. to relax, and she wonders if Shroom City, and renamed it is a brown pot with a raging “Out?” I say; the Snifit at the there’s anything they can find Snif City once they took over? fire. And looking back at the front desk just said Profes- to search for the professor. I Or did the Toads flee the city first one, I see the four circles sor Toad, who believes they’re found a journal, which says for some unknown reason - a appear to be eyes; how can four working for him, is out. How- Professor Toad found a “Sun long-lasting sickness, or a very eyes around a circle help Mario ever, because he believes the Incense” that’s used for ancient long war between Shroom City and Olivia? The last one looks two are working for Professor ceremonies by the “Ancient and an unknown desert clan to be making the most sense Toad, he’ll give him a key to his Ones.” Olivia then tells Mario from the abandoned ruin - that to me: A red bird - a phoenix room number. With Mario in to read it for her, since she can’t could have had the survivors maybe? - expelling fire from its possession of the key, I’m re- read his handwriting; she asks of either both the Shroom City open beak, with markings that alizing this Snifit better have if it explains where he is. I read residences and the clan, or just look like mountains surround- slept in the desert before to re- it again, seeing Professor Toad the Toads from Shroom City, ing it. All the pictures have quest random, weary travelers, is heading to the Sun Alter - to having left to find a new place writing that I’m sure Mario nor because he’s clearly not going the place with the big pot of to settle? Whatever the reason, Olivia cannot read. to be keeping his job for long, sand that I thought was gold I hit the save block, trying to “What is it, though? It’s al- especially since this Snifit gave and Olivia believed to be oat- swallow down the suspicion of most like a comic book. Would two complete strangers a key to meal at the very beginning. why the Snifits call this place you call it a comic wall?” she an occupied hotel room. At the Sun Alter, I look Snif City, when the lower right- says. Her and Mario look closer Olivia leans close to Mario, around for Professor Toad, but hand side of the screen tells me to see the mysterious words. “I explaining the clerk thinks he isn’t there. I tried looking all a different story by calling this sure hope we can find someone they work for Professor Toad, around the Sun Alter - I even desert town Shroom City. to help us translate this stuff. and pretending to be helpers left four times to return to see “Which way?” I ask; I chose It seems like it’s everywhere!” to the professor might be their he isn’t there. I decided to see if a random hall. The hallways’ Oliva then returns to her pock- only way to speak to him. The the clerk was mistaken for his walls are a beautiful wooden et after she talks to Mario. clerk tells them the end of the room number or something. design with red carpet over “A fourth?” I question, awed hall on the second floor is the He feels bad for charging the wood floorings underfoot. The and mystified. Instead of be- young professor’s room num- professor a lot of money for an orange doors are edged by the ing a white wall like the other ber, and he hopes they have fun item, and gives out the same 41 January 2021 CHARGING CORNER CAN PAPER MARIO’S ORIGAMI JOURNEY STOP KING OLLY FOLDING MUSHROOM KINGDOM CONT’D item - a Sun Incense - to Mario couldn’t tell if the arena was Ones are; Professor Toad ex- explains they believe the spool for free, and that makes him either shrinking or I got to the plains they were ancient peo- is buried, and they can’t dig feel better. At the Sun Alter, edge, but I couldn’t dodge the ple having existed in the desert into the sand. Professor Toad the Sun Incense is placed on massive Pokey nor the three area a long time ago. He then tells them he’ll read the in- the sand, with smoke wisping to five sand-tornadoes, and finishes: “Legend has it that one scription on the platform next out of the tip of the cone; Ol- I paid the price with a game of those Ancient Ones still sur- to the streamer; he turns to ivia says the smoke “smells like over. However, I learned what vives today. I have been seek- read, “When darkness looms, a sunny day!” After she says it’s to do; a few minutes into the ing this person for quite some / the desert sand entombs / like they’re lazing in the sun- second part, I was able to get time! You see, I’ve dedicated the Temple of Shrooms . . .” shine, a wind picks up, swirl- only the head left. The head my career to learning more Olivia’s worried, because it ing sand into a tornado, which is really easy, unlike the other about the ancient civilization says nothing about getting to sucks Olivia and Mario in what parts; wait for the head to be based on this desert. One day the streamer. Professor Toad I guess is a sandstorm. Inside burrowed enough to safely I hope to unearth a legendary wonders if it’s referring to the it, purple sand swirls around hammer the King Olly seal. figure from those times. In the Temple of Shrooms, which them; Olivia wonders if they’re Confetti and who looks like the ancient texts, he is known sim- could be buried under the trapped in the sandstorm. She professor flutter down; Olivia ply as . . . Khap’taan Teeowed.” sand. Olivia’s amazed, and says admits to Mario she’s scared, says the paper professor is an Olivia can’t say it, but says it’s a she’s imagining sleeping under and she asks what will happen odd piece of confetti. funny name; I agree with her. the sand without a blanket and next. The professor leaps to his Mario waves his arm, mouth pillow, and asks if they wake up My JoyCons rumble as glowing feet, thanking Mario for saving open. Olivia gazes at him in the temple to find the spool. pale-green spikes shoot out of him. Olivia asks what it was shock. “What?! You think the Professor Toad says they can’t the sand; Olivia cowers behind like being eaten by a cactus; Khap’toan person has some- do anything, but return to the Mario, saying the spikes aren’t she doesn’t know what a Pok- thing to do with something hotel room to look at all the too bad. “Maybe it’s a cool cac- ey is. Professor Toad turns to called a sea chart? Professor, murals. tus. Hi, cactus!” she calls out. Oliva, then stops mid-sentence I think we should meet that Even though it’s been a short The spikes circle around, and in telling her it was the worst Khap’taon Teeoweed person while since Bobby died, I find my JoyCons vibrating, a tow- thing that happened to him, to too! Ooh, but we need to do it strange having someone ering Pokey pokes out of the ask her if she’s one of the An- something about the streamer tail Mario as he goes over to sand. A Pokey is a Mario ene- cient Ones, because he clearly in the desert before that. Wait . the Royal Hotel. In the hotel my who looks like a cactus; she never seen an origami before. . . can you come with us to help room, Professor Toad explains isn’t completely wrong about it “Ancient? Li’l old me? Hah! No, translate the mysterious writ- to his new roommates that being a cactus. “Aw, who am I I’m just Olivia. Nice to meet ing? That might help a lot!” Ol- he’s a “loud studier,” and he kidding . . . This isn’t good!” Ol- you!” she answers back; I was ivia says. The professor agrees, hopes Mario and Olivia don’t ivia cries as I mutter, “You are thinking she would be offend- but he makes it sound like he’s mind. I notice there’s a pic- close about the cactus, Olivia.” ed, explaining she was a young simply using Mario for survival ture where the professor sleeps I then gasp; the Pokey looms origami princess, and not even along with a way to learn more. as well with the other rooms over them as it starts to fall close to being old enough to be He stops Olivia from getting and the upstairs hallway; it down, and my JoyCons rum- considered ancient. too excited, since it’s a lot of reads: “Shroom City Chronicle, bling when it hits the ground, Professor Toad turns around, reading and getting chased by Chapter 3 - Shroomses Dynas- Mario and Olivia dodge before wondering what happened to adversaries. She thanks him, ty’s Golden Age - sharing the she shelters in her pocket. The the Sun Alter. He runs over to and asks if he can re-explain wealth. Ruling rules!” I look battle then starts as quickly as it to be followed by Mario and what he said, because she around the other places to see the Pokey had made its appear- Oliva; he whips around, eyes spaced out at times. if the Professor translates ev- ance. The Pokey’s spikes follow closed thoughtfully, as he ex- I was leaving the Sun Alter erything now. Mario about as fast as him; I plains someone did the ritual when Toad stops him to head “Shroom City Chronicle, try hitting the spikes with my correctly. Olivia asks if he can to a place where the ground is Chapter 4 - The Eternal King hammer, but Mario loses 25 read the writing; Professor shining; he explains he needs Shroomses - He rests in the health a moment before the Toad explains, “Well, of course! to dig there to uncover clues. Temple of Shrooms,” reads the Boot Car flies off into the dis- I’m a professor of ancient stud- He explains to tell him to dig text next door to the professor’s tance. Olivia’s horrified the ies. This is written in the lan- using the down button on the room. The first door to the left- Boot Car was blown away. guage of the Ancient Ones. left JoyCon. Because of Profes- hand hallway is locked, but the “Ohhh, the battlefield,” I Studying it is my life’s work!” sor Toad, I go ahead off to the other door isn’t. “Shroom City moan. I figured Mario has to Olivia is thrilled they finally desert and look everywhere for Chronicle, Chapter 1 - The Birth hit the Pokey’s body to explode found a translator. places where white light emits of King Shroomese - Life be- one part into confetti when Even though she’s excited, from the sand. gins in the Sandpaper Desert.” it’s not glowing. After that, I she questions what the Ancient At the yellow streamer, Olivia At the moment, it sounded like January 2021 42 CHARGING CORNER CAN PAPER MARIO’S ORIGAMI JOURNEY STOP KING OLLY FOLDING MUSHROOM KINGDOM CONT’D a king - King Shroomese - was then Olivia floats over, asking thanks Mario for saving him, voice’ and ‘mega pipes.’ Don’t born somewhere in the Sand- if the arrow meant the door. and explains he lost the game. shoot the translator, but that paper Desert and ruled a king- Toad exclaims the rest must be But he did find Peach’s castle sounds like it could be you, dom where all the wealth was on the other side of the door. key; however, it turns out to be Olivia!” I avert my eyes away shared between those in pov- The clerk returns to explain the suite keys to look at the rest of from my Switch, slightly em- erty and all those living a bet- room is occupied, and that it’s the diagram. barrassed that I thought it was ter life in the castle. The king being used by someone wear- “Can you believe it? That Mario going to do it, not Olivia. died, where his body rests in ing green with a mustache, not hotel had it just sitting at the Blushing scarlet, Olivia the Temple of Shrooms, which, unlike Mario. The clerk says front desk! The keys to Peach’s looks at the ground, saying, I believe, had the land slope he was seeing the merchant Castle! They also had a really “WHAT?! Me? No way. A me- either gently or steeply to the stalls in town before leaving. nice pool, and I could use a lodic voice? Mega pipes? Me?! temple. And if that’s the case, Toad says they have to find this vacation . . .” Luigi goes on. I I mean, I suppose my pipes then the castle will tower over “green mustache” person, once smile, trying not to laugh, re- are KINDA mega . . . and I can the rest - dominating the scene Olivia wonders if they know membering Luigi back in Lu- carry a tune . . .” She turns to in that long-forgotten town. To the person in green. igi’s Mansion 3, and knowing face the mural. “Ooh . . . I don’t check, I head upstairs. I have a feeling it’s Luigi who he wouldn’t want a vacation if know about this . . . but if it Olivia comes out to hear Toad took residence in the room he knew what his 3D counter- helps us around that streamer say, “Ah, there is more ancient they need. While looking for part suffered. from the sand . . .” She faces the writing on the mural. Let’s see Luigi, I come across a Snifit “Uh . . . Luigi? Oh dear . . .” professor and Mario, her face . . .” Toad translates the first who tells them to read his face Olivia stammers. Luigi, most no longer red. “I’ll do it!” The one: “When all four Toads to win 10,000 coins; it costs a likely embarrassed by this little professor tells her the lesson align their eyes, / a shroomy hefty 100 coins to play. This blunder after realizing she’s begins. temple shall arise!” Toad ex- would be easy, unless Snifits not very happy about it, con- The screen darkens. In white plains the first is referring to had a proper mouth, so it just tinues, “Wait, what?! They said text, it appears Olivia is sing- the temple, which the mural becomes one big guessing with it was a ‘sweet key,’ and Peach is ing halfheartedly out of sheer has now confirmed to be real. the player doubting himself or the sweetest person I know, so . embarrassment. The profes- Olivia is slightly frightened by herself when he asks if they’re . .” Luigi jumps then he runs in sor rebukes by telling her she the eyeballs, thinking they’re sure. If the player doesn’t get place long enough to explain, must feel the words, and “belt following her. She returns to it right in three tries, the Sni- “Don’t worry! I’m not-a giv- it out with the boldness of an her pocket as Toad explains the fit will tell them they’ll have to ing up! I’ll find that key! And Ancient One!” Some rustling clue is valuable, though a bit stay with the others who didn’t I’m gonna come back here and sounds before Toad tells her vague; he tells Mario and the win, or pay a higher fee to play win this carnival game too! Bye to move to the left, then cor- player they can view his notes again. When the player guesses bye!” rects himself by explaining to by pressing L. correctly, the Snifit will be then Once Luigi runs off, Olivia turn to her left. He commands “Above the desert mush- surprised; then, he tells them turns to Mario, wondering, her then to bounce, twirl, and rooms rise, / go spark a flame to look in a random direction “That slippery brother of yours! thrust. I hadn’t seen anything, within their eyes,” reads the to flee - while being in plain He came out of the genie lamp . and I was forcing myself to next one. Toad asks if the thing view. A Magic Circle appears . . so do you think he can grant swallow down laughter, and coming out of the eyes looks when the Snifit knocks over us a few wishes?” The professor something told me I would be like something they’ve seen. some boxes. Olivia calls out he says he gave them the needed shrieking with laughter once At the third, it says, “Find the didn’t give out the prize money, key: “So he just owes us two I saw Olivia’s masterful ritual devout and gather all . . . / the but a moment later, she says it more wishes,” he finishes. In- dance and song. fire spirit they will call!” Olivia might have been a scam; how- side the room, Olivia is grate- or the professor worries the ever, she says, “At least we got a ful they didn’t wallpaper over bird in the picture will be fried, quick thrill out of it. My heart the mural. Then the professor This article will con- but I think it’s Olivia who said is racing!” then translates: “Ah! It appears tinue in our next issue. it. At the fourth one, Professor “What are you doing? How to depict some kind of ancient Stay tuned! Toad then translates: “To meet did you get there?” I question. ritual. The body movements the Vullemental same . . . The Using 1,000-Folded Arms, are quite distinct indeed!” He ritual is like a game . . . The six Mario can rub a lamp above turns to Mario and Olivia, devout will back this claim!” the stand the scam artist was who’s beside him. “It is also There’s an arrow pointing to at, which has both my Joy- oddly specific about who must what looks like the locked Cons rumbling until the lamp perform the ritual’s special in- door. Toad wonders why the glowed golden, and an L ap- cantation. Yes . . . the text sug- ritual isn’t spelled out there; peared before Luigi squirmed gests that it must be performed out of the big golden lamp. He by someone with a ‘melodic 43 January 2021 CHARGING CORNER MARIO’S REHASHED GALACTIC JOURNEY IN SUPER MARIO GALAXY 3D ALL STARS EDITION By Katie Stafford once every hundred years to Staff Reporter celebrate the comet.” The picture vanishes to be “It’s the night of the Star Fes- replaced by Peach’s face and tival, and Star Bits are falling upper torso filling the full from the sky! As everyone cel- moon, and a pink-edged letter ebrates, Bowser suddenly ap- saying (with her reading it for pears and lifts the castle - and the player): “Dear Mario, I’ll Princess Peach - into space, be waiting for you at the castle leaving Mario stranded in or- on the night of the Star Festi- bit! It’s here that Mario meets val. There’s something I’d like a curious star child, Luma, and to give you. From Peach”. The a mysterious woman in blue . . screen then shows Mario run- . This game included new ways ning before, with delighted cry, the grassy hills of the valleys and tremble. to control Mario, like pointing he leaps into the air. could semi-protect those at the The player gains control of and shaking the Wii Remote, as I played around, collecting festival if they’re anyone com- Mario, and I race to the cas- he explores miniature planets Star Bits, and just seeing and ing on foot; however, no one tle, more worried about that with fun forms of gravity.” This feeling for how Mario moves. is on foot, as they’re all in the strange large gray ship thing is how 3D All-Stars summa- He sounds extremely energetic airships. than Peach’s inevitable cap- rizes this 2007 Wii game. The and enthusiastic, and I like Meanwhile, gulping for air, ture. What? Mario will save game was initially released on that. However, I don’t know Mario runs as blazing reddish her; I know he will. At the November 1, 2007; eleven days if I’m not yet used to Mario in flames lick at the cool night castle, another cutscene plays, later, it was released for Ameri- this game or not, but he looks air behind him. The red-clad and this shows what the gray cans to play on November 12 of a little too plump in this game, plumber turns his head to see red-lighted airship is. that year (thanks All-Stars for almost like he recently had a a Toad struck by some white It turns out to be some kind telling me the America release large meal or was having one light, and it reveals the Toad’s of laser beam, able to cut date in the game; you did make too many plates of pasta. But encased in some kind of crys- Peach’s castle off the ground. my job a heck of a lot easier!). he’s really floaty, and not in a tal. As he runs, what looks like The red lights turn to green, A painting of a bluish-white bad kind of way; I do not know a fiery meteorite crashes down then purple, and then it blasts comet in a night sky appears, if the concept of the game is near him; while the dust cloud the land with the lasers, while with “Every hundred years, making it seem right, but him rises in the air before falling a changing different colors as a comet appears in the skies being floaty feels like it was second later, Mario instinctive- it cuts. Peach gasps when her above the Mushroom King- meant to be in Galaxy. Like ly shields the top of his head castle then lurches; mean- dom,” below it. The next shows the game’s Wii counterpart, with his hands. Once leaping while, her two “guards” are a Toad and Toadette watching the player uses the JoyCons to over a piece of the pathway screaming and wildly running shooting stars in a grassy field. gather Star Bits with the cur- that’s slightly raised up, he around from sheer terror, but “The comet was so large one sor; however, unlike the Wii halts, seeing Bowser’s army of are brave enough not to flee year, it filled the skies and sent Remote, the player can play the airships. back into the castle. Mario countless shooting stars rain- game with the JoyCons con- Watching her kingdom burn cries out; he seems unbalanced ing down.” nected with the Switch. Using as the dark water ripples where before his plants hands on the Three Toads carry different- it this way has the player tap- her moat is, Peach holds a now slightly raised part of the colored stars, while two heft ping the screen a lot, not dis- silvery-pink Luma. Bowser’s bridge, while a deep furrow a large yellow one while it similar to some free games on airship stops in front of her of the bridge appears before smiles at the player. The game his or her phone. I decided to castle; he comes closer to tell chains clink down to lift the explains, “The Toads brought play with my JoyCons not con- her, “Princess Peach! You are castle. With the white-clouded the shooting stars to the cas- nected; it feels odd having my formally invited . . . To the cre- Earth below them, Peach, as tle, where they became a great JoyCons connected to play this ation of my new galaxy! Gwa- her two guards shiver, while Power Star.” The Power Star game. hahaha! This festival’s over!” huddling, cries out, “Mario!” glows in front of a crowd of Bowser’s airship fires can- His palms glowing a bluish- The silvery-pinkish Luma is Toads; the game then added, nons, blocking Mario from white (crackling with electric- still in her hands. “It should have been a very fleeing the Star Festival, if he ity), he raises his hands. While Mario, exhaling slowly, af- happy time for the citizens of even deigned to do so. I can lightning rushes through the ter his run over the castle, and the Mushroom Kingdom.” A see Bowser brought a whole sky, something gray and large maybe a little bit worried about yellowish-white full moon is fleet with him as the massive with red lights appears. Two how to stop Bowser with him high in the sky. “That was the wooden airships come towards Toads, who’ve come to guard now in possession of the castle, night of the Star Festival, held the castle and festival, while her once seeing Bowser, cower straightens up. He gasps as Ka- January 2021 44 CHARGING CORNER MARIO’S REHASHED GALACTIC JOURNEY IN SUPER MARIO GALAXY 3D ALL STARS EDITION CONT’D mek swoops towards him. Ka- mos. To save your special one, ish ball. After turning all the a yawning darkness leading mek tells him, “So long! Enjoy you’ll need the power to travel flipswitches from yellow to into it. “Those round rooms your flight!” through space.” She waves her blue, the machine is stopped are called domes. We observe With a cry of delight, Ka- thin, silvery wand; a pinkish- and the Grand Star is given to galaxies from domes such as mek releases a blast of red- silver Luma appears before Mario. these. But the only one that is dish-white light at Mario. The Mario. “Luma can give you this At some kind of large place, working now is powered by the magical spell zigzags towards power. I will entrust you with the Grand Star turns into an Star Power you restored, is this him, while he turns his head his care.” Luma floats above orange ball, which lights up one . . . the Terrace. Please go to to keep track of where it is. Mario before he slams into the part of the area. I’m told I got the Terrace and try to recover Finally, the spell slams into plumber, whose hands glow a a Star for Getaway Galaxy. My the Power Stars from the gal- Mario, who screams as chunks bright white against his white Star Bits are said to have in- axies you can see from there. If of the bridge floats away with gloves. The game informs me creased. Mario, his shoes sat- we do that, we’ll be able to re- him. Kamek gives a war whoop I can spin jump, and I can do isfyingly clicking on the floor, store the Comet Observatory’s before him, Peach, the guards, this by shaking what looks like walks over to see and ability to fly like a starship.” and the castle are swallowed in my right JoyCon, or pressing Y. a dark Luma watching the or- I head off to the first dome. a blinding flash of light; proba- “Disaster has struck us, just as ange ball. Luma says the bea- The dark Luma is beside a bly the light showing they’re all it has visited you. With Luma, I con is shining, even for a Class smaller Luma. The darker one traveling, literally, at the speed hope you can rescue the Grand 6 Star, and that means the Lu- explains once the blue Luma of light. Stars. May the stars shine down mas will survive. Survive what? turns into a Pull Star, Mario can On lush grass, Mario opens on you . . .” She floats before she Were they dying from lack of . . go to him with the player using his eyes before bolting upright. vanishes. In front of Mario is . this beacon’s power? Rosalina the blue cursor (restarting it He realizes he’s on a small crystals, able to be broken with thanks the red-clad for collect- with R) or tapping the screen grassy planet. The Luma from Mario’s new spin jump. I enter ing the Grand Star, telling him on handheld mode. The Luma Peach’s hands expresses it’s re- a Launch Star, which can shoot the star people are her family. continues to explain Mario can lief Mario’s awake, then turns Mario to different plants and She turns to face Mario, ex- view the galaxies only able to into a star-earred rabbit, and galaxies if the player shakes plaining he’s at the Comet Ob- be observed from that particu- wishing to play, tells Mario to the JoyCon or presses Y. The servatory, which is Rosalina’s lar dome. The bigger numbers chase him. Luma, Mario just first planet is a Luma saying he and the Lumas’ home. means the further Mario has to had a terrible experience get- had a Launch Star ready, but a A bluish-white comet appears travel to get to them; the player ting blasted into orbit by Ka- meteorite destroyed it. Mario on screen in the sky. “You see, can gather Stars to go those mek; he might not want to play has to collect the Star Chips, we travel the starry skies. We further-away galaxies. tag right now. I’m a little wrong which is kind of like the Moon pass this area once every hun- Good Egg Galaxy: Dino Pi- on the game they want to play. Shards from Super Mario Od- dred years, but we suddenly ranha is first. Mario lands in a Yes, they, as there are three yssey, and once getting all five, stopped in front of this planet. grassy field full of yellow flow- star-bunnies to chase down. the little star in the center top A strange force has latched ers, with an orange-roofed They wish to play hide-and- screen turns yellow and the on to our ship, pulling away house nearby. However, I go seek; one hides in the grass, Launch Star appears. from Star Bits and our power the other way, wanting to see another jumps into a pipe, and The second has a Luma source, Power Stars.” It shows what’s behind him. It turns out the last is concealed in a crater. trapped in glass, and one of the a gray, still ship. “Our ship had to be a dark-stoned path to a “Wow! You caught all of us? have the key to save lost power, so it entered a deep Launch Star. I have to gather Maybe you can really help him. I thought it was glass, hibernation state in which it Star Chips while boulders roll Mama . . .” the last one tells but the encasing slides away could not move.” A looming around in thick mud. I ended Mario and I. I know who this smoothly, like it was some kind Bowser glares at the player. up dying on the third planet; “Mama” is. Her silver-blonde of hologram or something. “Those who took your special Mario was hitting this green hair topped with a gleaming Luma asks if Mario can save his one picked up the Power Stars . spring thing with a spin jump, silver crown, her blue eyes full friend, and he’ll help by turn- . . And discovered the power to and it struck him, sending a of warmth, she hovers in front ing into a Sling Star for him; a cross the universe.” screaming Mario into a black of Mario, wearing a light blue Sling Star is kind of like a small It goes to Rosalina. “Please, I hole. dress. Mario went over to the Launch Star. I save his friend, have a request . . . This observa- By my next try, I was able small tower that appeared af- and Luma goes down a pipe; tory uses Star Power to protect to get to a Launch Star, which ter Luma told Mario he might Mario follows him. images of the galaxies that are shot Mario onto this large egg. be able to help. Now, I face her, Luma tells Mario to save the scattered across space. And . . . It turns out to be a baby Dino who explains we’re at the gate- Grand Star, which is trapped, there is a chance we can use our Piranha, and Mario has to kill it way to the starry sky. and powering a horrid ma- few remaining stars to look for by giving it a concussion using “My name is Rosalina. I chine making something. The other Power Stars.” The camera its tail. After slaying the newly- watch over and protect the cos- “something” is a swirling pink- goes to a small grassy hill with hatched baby, Mario’s reward- 45 January 2021 CHARGING CORNER MARIO’S REHASHED GALACTIC JOURNEY IN SUPER MARIO GALAXY 3D ALL STARS EDITION CONT’D ed another Star. A Snack of video, he explains slope-climb- Cosmic Proportions is the next ing, and I think he’s the best of Star in Good Egg Galaxy. explaining what a slope-climb “Hey, you! Yeah, you! Got any is exactly: “However, you might tasty Star Bits? If you feed me not know this, but slopes in a bunch of Star Bits, I’ll burst Super Mario Galaxy are really with snacky happiness and a suggestion. A suggestion that then transform! I’m famished! we are going to blatantly ig- I need 100 Star Bits to curb the nore. You see, there’s a tactic in hunger pangs!” the Hungry Super Mario Galaxy commonly Luma says. Upon reading that, used by speedrunners, called I say, “No, no, no, no. No! If slope-climbing.” you’re hungry, find some Star He continues: “It works like Bits yourself. It’s not like Star this: If you slide down a slope spin jump just destroyed them rio to stop what’s itching her, Bits are super scarce; they’re on your butt, then jump in the both in one spin jump, which which happens to be Star everywhere - they’re literally direction that you’re sliding sent two coconuts flying into Chips. “I hate you,” I mutter to falling from the sky Hungry (i.e. down the slope). Then Ma- them. I get off the ship and her, as Mario searches her furry Luma!” I had 101 Star Bits; I was rio’s considered to be more or land on a metal planet. body for the needed Star Chips. about to be left with one Star less doing a normal jump, in- However, it doesn’t seem to Once falling into the Launch Bit. Anyway, if Hungry Luma stead of this pitiful hop he does be metal, as it’s a planet full of Star, it takes Mario to Captain was starving, he wouldn’t be when trying to go against the lava. King Kaliento is an oc- Toad, who explains he and his floating, waving two Star-Bit- slope. Since we’re now jump- topus, and uses coconuts and Toads got lost in Honeyhive shaped balloons flashing dif- ing normally, we can do a spin flaming coconuts able to hurt Galaxy, and they got out of the ferent colors, so a complete in the air to help us adjust our Mario to attack, and even small castle with Luigi. stranger can feed it; he be midair momentum. And start blue flames leaping for Ma- “Mario . . . Your name is Ma- hunting for his own food, since going back towards the slope, rio once his crown is knocked rio, isn’t it? That is what I heard his choice in his diet isn’t even instead of away from it. Using off. He is an easy boss, but he’s from your friends who just ar- close to being hard to find. this tactic, it’s possible to land oddly fun. rived. Mario . . . It has such After the Luma, now stuffed higher on the slope than you Honeyhive Galaxy: Bee Mario a nice ring. Your friends are with my Star Bits - let me re- were when initially jumped. Takes Flight is the first Star in waiting for you in the Garage. peat that: stuffed with my Star You then repeat the process Honeyhive Galaxy. Clear water I think they want to tell you Bits - explodes, birthing a new as many times as necessary to murmurs while the first planet something, so you’d best hurry planet, it’s entering an encased climb the desired slope.” is full of grass. I learned Bee on over there,” Rosalina says. part of the level. With Mario’s There’s a Launch Star sta- Mario is not a fan of water. The However, I return to the dome sense of gravity shifting, he tioned on the roof of the house moment he splashes in, he’s to do Trouble on the Tower in gets to the Launch Star at the in Good Egg Galaxy. It looked no longer a bee. He can fly, but Honeyhive Galaxy. Getting to top of the planet. The sound possible to climb to the top apparently even busy bees can the wooden tower was fun, of glass shatters as he rockets of the house. I was able to do get tired, as he can’t fly for very thanks to a lot of times to do over to a star-shaped planet, a triple jump to the roof, then long. a backflip-then-spin-jump where he has to gather blue I slope-climbed up. The first “You bees are trying to kill combo, and swinging on those Star Chips. It’s a little scary us- spin got me higher than I was. me! I’m part of your hive, you swings - a thin wooden beam ing the Pull Stars to get Mario What should have been one stupid killer bees!” I was still tied with vines, decorated with to the Power Star in the center, more slope-climb turned into on the first planet, and some white-petaled flowers, really - but it’s doable. Mario scooting his butt on the bees were hefting heavy buck- to get to the Manibog, which King Kaliento’s Battle Fleet is roof until his feet hit the flat- ets of golden honey. Each time is a simple ground pound to the third and last Star able to topped roof. It wasn’t elegant Mario buzzed past them, they defeat. be snatched at Good Egg Gal- nor skillful, but it was possible, bumped into him, almost Big Bad Bugaboom is the last axy. I was able to do a very slop- and slope-climbing showed causing him to stop flying to Star to get in Honeyhive Gal- py slope-climb; a slope-climb Nintendo didn’t remove this be sucked into the black hole axy. The music in this is sped is when the player can scale glitch from its All-Stats edition below. The second planet re- up, which I like. I was able to a slope. A few months ago, I of Super Mario Galaxy. ally doesn’t have much; it’s just get to the Queen Bee, who says watched this video of this You- A few planets of using some getting to the Launch Star with to take care of their neighbors. Tuber, CMeeCraft Gaming, try- coconuts as a projectile, I board Bee Mario flying from one big The battle isn’t hard. I found ing to beat Mario Galaxy (it’s two airships. I was amazed purple-petaled flower to the Bee Mario sticking to the wall Wii counterpart) without even when two enemies fired coco- next. of honeycomb while waiting collecting one Star Bit. In the nuts at Mario, and one midair The Queen Bee wishes Ma- for the right time to attack is January 2021 46 CHARGING CORNER MARIO’S REHASHED GALACTIC JOURNEY IN SUPER MARIO GALAXY 3D ALL STARS EDITION CONT’D best. The first blow is really its large feet. for Mario to travel on to Pull challenging than Kamella. easy, but the last two blows I swallow nervously as Mega- Stars. I free some Toads, and Mario is staring up at Rosa- are a little harder, since tim- legs reveals itself. I see the it has a ship shaped like a red- lina. “It seems that a Prankster ing hasn’t been my thing, but Grand Star is encased in glass topped, white-spotted mush- Comet has appeared some- being able to dodge explosive like the Launch Star. I have to room appear, with Captain where . . . Prankster Comets crap the boss Mandibug poops travel up Megalegs to get to it. Toad as the captain. The ship have very strange effects on out is easy, if I stay on my wall Bullet Bills target Mario, who allows Mario to get to a Sling galaxies. If you want to learn of honeycomb, and even the should destroy the fence, then Star, which then leads to him about these curious comets slow flight back to the honey the glass. Easy . . . Well, easier collecting five silver stars that ask the Luma who knows such is just as easy as sticking to the said than done. First of all, the follow him; upon getting the things.” wall. fence returns after a certain last star, it forms into a Power Luma explains about Prank- I can choose between Loop- amount of time, and the Bullet Star. The latter half of the level ster Comets: Speed Comets deeloop Galaxy and Flipswitch Bills have the tendency to crash is full of junk, which forms into limit the time Mario can get a Galaxy. I decided to do the into one another or explode the paths and platforms; it’s scary Star; Cosmic Comets have Ma- former first. The first and last moment they leave without to jump from platform to plat- rio “race a mirror of yourself,” Star is Surfing 101. Mario is on a touching anything. I ended up form, when the level builds it- while Fast Foe Comets give purple stingray, and a penguin dying; I watched Mario weakly self in front of the player. added speed to enemies. is there to instruct him how to raise himself in a half-sitting Kamella’s Airship Attack I ignore the two Hungry Lu- surface. After five minutes of position, his trembling fingers is an easy Star to get. While mas waiting to be fed, and in- twisting my JoyCon left, I cried, stretched to the fence, before Mario boards airships, all the stead go over to Rolling Green “Help! I think I’m softlocked!” collapsing. puzzles revolve around throw- Galaxy. It wasn’t bad, but I died The game decided I was in the Amazingly, my next try went ing a Koopa shell at an enemy. a few times trying to control clear to do the same mindless wonderful. I at first had three Kamella is kind of like Kamek, Mario on that stupid ball. I torture, just turning right this Bullet Bills chasing the red- but she wears purple robes. see a Speed Comet is in orbit time. To speed up or slow down clad plumber, but two de- Just toss Koopa shells at her, at Space Junk Galaxy: Pull Star I just press B or release it. Once stroyed two pieces of the fence, and Mario can get the Star. I Path Speed Run. With only I learned to turn as little as pos- and the last one hit the glass, have to say her third phase is a about a minute left out of the sible to avoid turning sharply, getting rid of Megalegs and little difficult, since she spawns four minutes to do the level, I the galaxy wasn’t too bad. The giving Mario the Grand Star. I a good two Magikoopas to stop was able to get the Star. dark Luma informs Mario and now have 10 Stars to my name, Mario. They’re slightly harder I look at both Hungry Lumas, I they sensed an enemy base and have completed an entire than Kamella; that’s some- seeing they need 400 Star Bits nearby. Before going to the en- orbit of galaxies. thing I shouldn’t have to say each; I had 651 Star Bits in to- emy base, I go off to Flipswitch Rosalina tells Mario: “That about the boss: The actual boss tal. I’ll wait until I have at least Galaxy. ball of flame represents the is easier than her lower-rank- 800 Star Bits so they can feed Painting the Planet Yellow power of the observatory. We ing comrades! at the same time. Luckily, an wasn’t hard. I noticed how the call it the beacon. When you However, Kamella has one enemy base has been spotted background changes to what recover a Grand Star, a little last trick up her purple-robed and Battlerock Galaxy awaits seems to be the first under- Star Power will be restored, sleeve: Her battle lulled me me as well, so getting at least ground level in Super Mario and the beacon will grow. The into a false sense of security. 200 more Star Bits shouldn’t be Bros. while Mario;s grabbing Comet Observatory can use That’s because Tarantox’s Tan- a problem at all. And speaking the Star. Bowser Jr.’s Robot that power to fly through the gled Web is not an easy boss about Battlerock Galaxy, that’s Reactor: Megaleg’s Moon is universe. Once all of the power battle. The battle is fighting a where I went first. the only Star to get, and once is restored, we will even be able massive alien spider in its web. Battlerock Barrage is the first I snatch the Star, this whole to fly to the center of the uni- The player has to have Mario Star. Mario is on a metal plat- dome is finished. verse . . .” climb into the sticky cobweb, form that takes him to the Star, My heart pounds as Mario is The dark Luma explains the and have the brave plumber but balls fired out of cannons welcomed into the galaxy. He next dome is called the Foun- hit the spider’s abdomen, and and electric fences try to stop first has to guide a Bullet Bill tain, and inside the Fountain, Tarantox exposes its underbel- him. Some of the fences need to the Launch Star, trapped be- with at least nine Stars, Mario ly with throbbing red bumps, Mario to walk on the platform, hind glass. In the next planet, can travel to Space Junk Galaxy: which explode once Mario hits leading him to stand upside- Bowser Jr., who’s in an airship Pull Star Path. This galaxy has it. Taratox spits out green toxic down while gravity holds him smaller than his father’s, ex- literal junk floating in space; I at Mario, and for some reason, down. After leading some plains Bowser doesn;t have guess space might be the best Mario, staring at me, refused Bullet Bills to the glass, Mario to help him, since Megalegs, place to get rid of our trash in to budge, until toxic sprayed gets his Star. I died only once, powered by the trapped Grand the near or distant future, since at him. In the end, the battle because I wasn’t looking after Star, will crush Mario beneath apparently it’s the best place wasn’t too hard, but it was more him, but the second time he 47 January 2021 CHARGING CORNER MARIO’S REHASHED GALACTIC JOURNEY IN SUPER MARIO GALAXY 3D ALL STARS EDITION CONT’D snatched the Star. served Battlerock Galaxy to swallow nervously when I re- hit is all it’ll take to kill Mario. Breaking into the Battlerock get more Stars, I saw I com- alize how precise he has to be I fear what happens if I mess has bombs Mario has to grab pleted the fourth Star. If I quit, shot from one sticky pod to the up and die; will this new Dare- to break the glass that is trap- I would have done it anyway, next. I found it easier to use devil Comet fly out of orbit if I ping a Launch Star. Once I did so I’m happy I did that chore handheld mode for this gal- die, making me unable to redo that, I saw a Hungry Luma in of a Star. When Mario flew to axy. That didn’t stop me dying, the rematch? a colorful planet full of Chain the galaxy, I saw three stars; the and getting my first game over. I don’t even know if it was the Chimps, and a trapped Luma; third’s called Battlerock’s Gar- The game will ask if I wanted adrenaline pumping through this Hungry Luma wishes to bage Dump. to quit with or without saving; my veins or not, but the re- snack on 30 Star Bits. I had 36 After saving the trapped once I saved and quit, Mario match was not just short and Star Bits; he was about to eat Luma with a bomb that I didn’t Galaxy brought me to the title fun, it was childishly easy. all but six Star Bits. Should I see the first time, I was taken to screen. There’s Pull Star Bits as However, it could be I just bat- leave him starving and save a Pull Star location, thanks to well. After another game over, I tled this boss, literally, two sec- the Luma, while keeping my 36 said Luma transforming into a get the Star after such a strug- onds ago before the Daredevil Star Bits; or should I feed him, Sling Star. I went into this loca- gle towards uit. Comet flew into orbit. and let him birth a new planet? tion where I shot Mario out of a The third and (in my case) Bowser’s Star Reactor: The “This better be worth it,” I mut- cannon to save another Luma, the final Star at Battlerock Gal- Fiery Stronghold is the last ter, shaking my head slightly, and it formed into a Launch axy is Topmanic and the Top- Star to get into this orbit of as the stuffed Luma births a Star. man Tribe. The tribe are these galaxies, or until an unknown new planet. Flying through space, I had enemies that look and spin like comet orbits Space Junk Gal- “Who are you? What are to do the same thing on a tops. On the way over, Mario axy. The platforming isn’t too you?” I ask. Mario is beside a multi-colored rocketship; this has to spin jump on the ground hard. There’s a section where green pipe, and that is the only had some green lasers to leap to push them to the green-laser Mario’s sense of gravity shifts thing other than dull grays and over. When the small bomb ex- fence, where they’re destroyed. depending if his background browns. A dark green robot, ploded the glass trapping the The boss - Topmanic - is really is the purple wall and arrows or sweeping with a broom, comes cannon, I was about to enter fun. The player has to get rid of the blue wall and arrows. Two towards Mario. Gathering my it, when Mario was knocked his comrades to make it easi- black holes are there to suck courage, I confront the robot; off his feet, a health point re- er, then stomp on his head to him in if he misses a jump to he can’t really attack Mario moved, but he landed on the make the spikes armoring him the moving platform carrying with his broom, since he looks 1-UP Mushroom that was freed retract before spin-jumping him to the third bit. The first like he likes to sweep rather after the second unexpected, him to the fence. was just Mario walking up and than turn it into a sword or delayed explosion. It’s then fir- Hurry-Scurry Galaxy has only around, his sense of gravity re- staff. ing the cannon at the Star, and one Star (Shrinking Satellite) maining on the pathway, to the Turns out he wants Mario to I thought I missed it by a pixel, to its name. It’s also a short but wacky gravity part of the level. explode trash, since apparent- when the cutscene where Ma- fun galaxy. The ground under The final bit of the level has ly, I guess, Space Junk Galaxy is rio floats around in zero grav- Mario’s feet swiftly vanishes, Mario face Bowser, who ex- too lame to leave trash floating ity next to the Star plays. Once and the best way to keep from pels fireballs from his mouth, in space. “I really don’t get why returning to the Observatory, I dying is to move without, or crumbling the green-and- I have to be timed, and 30 sec- see my toal Star Bit counter is doing little, pauses. After get- white tile flooring beneath onds isn’t enough time,” I say. I now 840. ting a lot of rainbow-colored Mario’s feet as he runs to him. tried ten times, and each time I With both Lumas having de- quarter notes, Mario can now With Bowser promising to got super close. I failed it only voured their fill of 400 Star Bits allow the floor to shrink be- crush Mario to space bits, the because the timer ran out be- each, one births the Sling Pod neath his feet to get the Star, battle begins, and I realize how fore the bomb could explode. Galaxy, while Sweet Sweet Gal- since the Star apparently has epic the soundtracks of this My eyes burned with hot tears axy is born. The latter is first. its own field of gravity. game are. The soundtrack that of frustration as I inhaled Rocky Road is the name for the A Daredevil Comet? What plays while in the heat of battle sharply and a bit shakily. I put only level in this galaxy; it’s just is a Daredevil Comet?” I ask. is called “King Bowser.” my Switch on the dock with traveling through one very col- Battlerock Galaxy has a new Bowser and Mario slam down trembling hands. No way it is orful galaxy with a lot of holes. comet orbiting it. “Tomanic’s on the small planet with its possible to destroy that trash A Very Sticky Situation is the Daredevil Run . . . Is this a re- core being lava. Mario has to in 30 seconds; the half min- name for the Star in Sling Pod match?” I question as Mario stay on a piece of blue glass, so ute should have been bumped Galaxy. flies to Battlerock Galaxy. The when Bowser goes in for what up to a minute, at least in All- Sling Pod Galaxy is full of moment Mario lands, I yelp, he thinks is the killing blow, Stars. these sticky pods Mario used “oh, no!” as I see Mario’s health Mario can dodge, and Bowser’s An hour later, I was able to to battle Tarantox, and Mario is at one, which means it’s liter- still is heated up from the lava. destroy the trash. When I ob- has to aim himself at them. I ally a do or die battle, when one The moment his tail catches January 2021 48 CHARGING CORNER MARIO’S REHASHED GALACTIC JOURNEY IN SUPER MARIO GALAXY 3D ALL STARS EDITION CONT’D was collecting the needed Star fireplace, I head over to the Chips, and I jumped, truly star- book resting on the rocking tled, when the loud pop sound- chair. The game only allows me ed a moment before Mario fell to read the chapters Rosalina’s in to die in the poison swamp. read to the Lumas, and maybe The level wasn’t too bad, since Mario. The library is small with aiming my JoyCon and care- the walls being full of book- fully deciding if I tap or press shelves housing books. I leave down on A isn’t too much of a to explore the other galaxies challenge. The moment Mario the Kitchen observes. got his Star, the game said Ro- I decided Beach Bowl Gal- salina’s library was open; I left axy: Sunken Treasure is next. the Kitchen observatory to see With water murmuring and what Rosalina’s library is. lapping at the sandy beaches, Mario gaps in wonderment which lead to lush grass, the when he sees yellow and blue soundtrack is very tropical, Lumas gathered around Rosa- having a Sunshine-like feel to lina, who’s sitting on a rocking the music and galaxy. A water- chair, a thick book in her lap. fall roars near the clear water, fire, the soundtrack’s volume “Really? Oh, that’s why,” I say, “Let us begin!” she calls. After with sand at the bottom, as increases, and that’s really cool looking at the galaxies in orbit. reading the first chapter about gray rock acts as a wall under- to understand, and the mo- The Luma told me, the mo- a girl and Luma waiting years water. I look around, seeing ment his tail cools down so the ment I entered the Kitchen, an for the Luma’s mother, I ask, palm trees in the grass, while flames vanish, it returns to its enemy base had been spotted. “Can I go back? I want to ex- blue-furred, white-underbel- soft volume. I realize trying to I now have 24 Stars - one more plore galaxies, not read a book. lied, yellow-beaked penguins get to him while he’s wildly run- above the 23 Star required to I don’t mind reading, but still, chirp and talk to Mario, as they ning around in pain isn’t easy, tackle the enemy base. Even so, I like to explore outer space, waddle on yellow feet. All of and the one time I was able to I figure the one-Starred Bubble please.” Chapter two then be- the penguins are so cute and do it, I spin jumped, so Bowser Breeze Galaxy is a good place to gins. I sigh in defeat before friendly towards Mario. was sent spinning, and another start. The galaxy’s Star is called continuing reading. After swimming underwater spin jump did the actual dam- Through the Poison Swamp. By the end of the second to find the Star Chips and hav- age. This fight to harm Bowser The poison swamp has swirls chapter, I was singing a com- ing Mario explode out of the is a three-step process, and I’m of purple and brown rippling pletely different song. The water thanks to the Launch not sure I like it or not. across its surface. I see Cap- moment Rosalina said, “That Star, it’s ground pounding but- I learned I actually like it. The tain Toad, some Toads, and the should do it for today . . .” I tons to get walk on a pathway last blow means Mario has to crashed mushroom-shaped wanted to listen to more of that’s timed, and the same for a spin jump Bowser again, after ship. One Toad informs me the story. The second chapter timed wall to wall jump off of, the first. Bowser will breathe their ship - the Starshroom - has the young girl and Luma to get the Star encased by crys- fire and his jumps cause shock- crashed. I found a billboard explore for Luma’s mother. tal. I learned Mario’s air meter waves to ripple around the - sorry, Phil Board - who tells The girl was hungry, and she isn’t too hard to manage, but planet and Mario. Once the me - this sign talks, and I’m not realized she brought food but him underwater is a little awk- fight is over, Bowser will tell using personification, reader - not water, and it sounded like ward to control, but it’s my first Mario is foolish, since his plan to explain how to use a bubble. she ran out of food, since she’s underwater stage, so I’ll get is too far along, then he’ll leave. Using the cursor and pressing hungry. The Luma tells her to used to it soon enough. I also A new dome has been re- A, air will then push the bubble collect Star Bits; even though learned Mario can spin jump in stored to power. Rosalina tells Mario’s in; if the player taps the she nearly fell out of her ship the water to move faster, which Mario, “The villain who kid- screen in handheld mode, air several times, she collected helps if Mario’s oxygen-starved napped your special one took will be blown as well. them. And by the way the story lungs are begging for air, and her far from here, to the center I learned what happens if Ma- said, “They tasted like honey,” I he can be above water quicker of the universe. Once Star Pow- rio hits a spiked ball above the guess she ate some out of des- than if he weren’t spin jumping er is restored, the observatory poison swamp. He’ll be swal- peration to fill her stomach. I underwater. will be able to go there. Then lowed whole before his hand wanted to see what happened The moment Mario enters you can be reunited with your breaches the surface a moment after the girl and Luma collect- the Kitchen, another Hun- special one . . .” The new dome before he dies in the swamp. ed Star Bits. gry Luma is starving to death is called the Kitchen. The first time it happened, I With the yellow-orange outside. I guess I have to feed flames crackling away in the it. “Six hundred?! No, no, no. 49 January 2021 CHARGING CORNER MARIO’S REHASHED GALACTIC JOURNEY IN SUPER MARIO GALAXY 3D ALL STARS EDITION CONT’D You’ll wait here until I com- when I tried swimming away on it. The two decide to stay on mushroom is a Boo Mush- plete both Beach Bowl Galaxy from the black hole, wanting the comet to look for Luma’s room, which turns Mario into and Ghostly Galaxy, little one,” to avoid the obstacles, but the mom. I leave the library the Boo Mario, and Boo Mario can I snap. I only had 380 Star Bits current is too strong, and Ma- moment storytime is over. I vanish with a shake of the Joy- to my name. rio is pushed into the black check the Fountain again, see- Cons or pressing Y. “Soooooooo hungry!” Hungry hole. ing the mysterious comet isn’t The sign explains I can press Luma says. For ten seconds, I The next part isn’t too hard, orbiting Space Junk Galaxy yet. B, but I found A works just as moved my cursor to Hungry Lu- since there’s the safe path, Maybe it’ll orbit soon? I hope well, to float higher, I can shake ma’s mouth, and the moment and the hardcore path to take. so, anyway. my JoyCons to go transparent, he screamed, “MOOOOORE!” The safe path is walking on Like Space Junk Galaxy, which can allow Mario to go I say, “No!” firmly, while mov- the stone pathway that move there’s an unknown comet through thin bars. As Boo Ma- ing the star cursor away. Then I around the swirling water; the waiting to orbit. Instead, I go rio, I see Luigi is really trapped; repeat what I said and did until hardcore path is parkcouring off to Ghostly Galaxy; the first he has a barred window, a I grew bored. over the safe path: I took the Star is called Luigi and the wooden wall on the other, a “Passing the Swim Test? I bet safe path. At the third section, Haunted Mansion. Luigi, his dark purple back wall, and an- Mario can swim,” I say. I see the those cubed-Thwump enemies hands pressed to his cheeks, other set of bars. only black-furred penguin, who appear again. I scream, my trembles and stares wide-eyed Cowering, his hands over his explains if Mario gets the gold- heart lurching, when one of out of the window, which I head, Luigi screams, “A ghost! en shell, it’s an automatic A for those cubed enemies suddenly see has metal bars caging him Eeeeeek!” A yellow spotlight him to pass his test. The golden crushes Mario, appearing on inside, if the fact he might be is moving back and forth; the shell is being held by a penguin screen so quick I couldn’t react, too scared to escape himself moment Boo Mario touches it, swimming underwater. I don’t even if I was given the chance isn’t trapping him. Sounding he’s back to being Mario. See- know what hit me the moment to. The rest of the latter half of like a remix of Luigi’s Mansion ing his brother, Luigi’s voice I grabbed the shell, but three the level is the same, but with theme plays when Mario lands actor cries out, “Mario!” while panic-stricken seconds passed some green vanishing plat- on a green ship, near the man- a text bubble appears with him before I snatched the shell forms from Hurry-Scurry Gal- sion. With gravity keeping his saying, “HELP!” again. Once I showed it to the axy in the mix. feet planted to the ship, Mario “Bro, you finally came! I got penguin swim teacher, he said, A new chapter has been can walk under the ship to en- lost with the Toads . . . It was after tossing the Star in the added to the storybook, but ter a Launch Star. terrible! But I found a Power middle of the isle he’s on, “Nice before I go off to storytime, I As Mario runs to the man- Star, so that makes up for it, job on the test! But . . . are you decided to see Ghostly Galaxy. sion, I realize it’s upside-down. right?” I wince at reading Lu- even one of my students?” A However, a Fast Foe Comet is in When I enter it, a red carpet igi’s dialogue; it’s like Luigi second before I grab the Star, orbit in the Beach Bowl Galaxy. over black-and-white tile trav- expects Mario to explode with I throw the golden shell at a Fast Foes on the Cyclone Stone els to a picture of a Boo. A le- rage, and is trying to smooth blue-furred penguin; it breaks is the name of the Fast Foe ver is beside the door; once I things over so he doesn’t get like glass. Comet. My heart, still racing spin next to it, a yellow spot- yelled at. Once Mario returns, The Secret Undersea Cavern is from the latter half that level, light sways back and forth. I Rosalina says Luigi is at the Ga- the last Star in Beach Bowl Gal- pounds faster when I see I have go towards the painting, and rage, and Mario better speak to axy. After I broke the cracked to do the latter half of the third gasp softly when a Boo pops Luigi, who could help him find wall with a green shell, Mario Star again, but every enemy is out. I move closer to the light, Power Stars. entered a bare stone cavern faster. and when the Boo touches it, With Luigi promising to send with some bats and the sound “I’m going to play it safe,” I say, it vanishes, and a key is in its a letter to Mario if he finds of dripping onto stone. De- after I got through part of the place. Power Stars in Good Egg Gal- stroying a few wooden crates fast level. Icy fear claws down After, it’s grabbing Star Chips axy, I go over to the Kitchen for reveals a Launch Star with my spine, as I want the level when bridges Mario walks on the next Star at Ghostly Gal- white light pouring down on it. over with. I try to it, are able to allow him to walk axy: A Very Spooky Sprint. The The next part is where the level but I end up dead two seconds on the walls. Rocketed out of a player races a Boo using Pull truly shines, and shows how later. A few deaths pass before Launch Star, he’s taken outside Stars. It took three tries, but I scary it looks. I’m able to grab the Star from to grab a key by falling, then was able to plan the best route. The first is a Thwump, then it’s crystal prison. the player saves him with a The moment I got back, Lu- it’s a cubed Thwump enemy The third chapter is of the girl nearby Pull Star. The key opens igi sent a letter, showing he’s with only one part of it hollow, and Luma finding a comet, and a door, and the door leads him on the rooftop of Good Egg so Mario isn’t crushed, killed staying on it. Luma finds Star inside a dark room with a sign Galaxy. The player can view right away. There’s a river of Bits, and the girl realizes the in Booish. I notice a big gold the photo pressing the + but- water swirling towards a black icy comet is warm, and that coin, and once he grabs it, a ton, then pressing the letter hole; I thought I was smart means there might be water white mushroom spawns. The with the L on it. The moment I January 2021 50 CHARGING CORNER MARIO’S REHASHED GALACTIC JOURNEY IN SUPER MARIO GALAXY 3D ALL STARS EDITION CONT’D view the Terrace, I see a Cosmic with that death; it was so hi- one with a green question to throw Koopa shells at his Comet is in orbit at the Honey- lariously anticlimactic I find it mark. Something told me Luigi ship. Some Magikoopa join the hive Galaxy. Sorry, Luigi, but hard to believe I died that way. was at the top of the level; how- fight; once Bowser Jr. has had the Cosmic Comet is first; then The last stretch of the level ever, I checked the Mailtoad, enough of three Koopa shells I’ll slope-climb to you on that isn’t too interesting, just be- who would deliver the letters slamming into his ship, he’ll rooftop. cause I’ve seen this all before. sent from Peach, sending five personally join the fray as well. Honeyhive Cosmic Comet Mario uses the Launch Stars 1-UPs to Mario every now and All the while, I’m busy making Mario Race is what’s called. to get to a section of the level then, and Luigi. So it looks like Mario spin jump near a Koopa With Sunshine’s Shadow Ma- where he has to use the sticky Bowser Jr.’s Airship Armada is to grab its shell, then side som- rio’s theme playing, Mario rac- pods to get Pull Star Chips, last . . . for now. ersaulting and running around es to a Star. it’s really fun, and and use the Pull Stars to an- Sinking the Airships is not the airship I’m on to avoid the not really much to talk about, other Launch Star. Bouncing planets to an airship, but a magical spells and fireballs, expect it took two tries to find on a ball to a Launch Star isn’t whole fleet of airships that Ma- and once Bowser Jr. joins in, it’s the right route. Luigi is next. too hard, but is something I rio boards one by one. The air- avoiding Bullet Bills and flam- A question mark is slightly haven’t seen yet. ship theme plays the moment ing cannonballs from his ship’s above the first Star. I realized A blue Luma is selling ei- “Welcome to the Galaxy!” ap- Bowser-head-shaped cannon. as I took care of enemies and ther a 1-UP of a golden-starred pears on screen. After board- After three minutes of trying to I was clumsily slope-climbing red mushroom for three extra ing several airships and firing get rid of the Magikoopa, I ad- to him, Luigi was crying out health in battle. Bouldergeist is out of some cannons to get to mit defeat, and aim my shells alongside Mario, which I found fun, since it’s using the Bomb one another, the last part is at Bowser Jr.’s ship. Mario grabs endearing. Boos to wound its armor of traveling on a platform. By the the Grand Star, when his health I now have 640 Star Bits; after rocks, then hitting what I guess time I got to the final airship, was back at one, and if Bowser the Hungry Luma gulps down is his throbbing tongue. I got I screamed, “I need health!” as Jr. hadn’t defeated then, Mario all but 40, he births the Drip hit once he used his hands, but Mario’s health was at one HP would have died from an un- Drop Galaxy. The only Star is I think I insulted him by say- now. timely placed magical spell. called Giant Eel Outbreak. ing, “Now it looks like it’ll get The battle was chaotic, but in Some penguins can’t catch fish interesting now,” just has the a fun way. I was able to get two This article will con- with eels in the water. With cutscene where he makes some coins to heal the courageous tinue in our next issue. Torpedo Teds chasing Mario, rocky hands plays. plumber. Bowser Jr. watches Stay tuned! the player has to use red or Buoy Base Galaxy: The Float- from his airship, and Mario has green shells to kill the three ing Fortress is the last non- eels, then Mario will collect the Comet Star before the enemy Star. base. The level wasn’t hard. Beware of Bouldergeist is the Just a lot of parkour on land up third and final Star in Ghostly a tower to get Pull Star Chips Galaxy. In the scary mansion, - Thwomps in the way, those I ground pound some crates, top-like enemies to spring on, and a Toad pops out; this Toad moving platforms while gath- explains a Bomb Boo can be ering Star Chip pieces, and used shaking the JoyCons or dodging shockwave-lasers pressing Y. What’s a Bomb open half of the final planet to Boo? A Bomb Boo is a black get the Star. yellow-eyed Boo who explodes Sirens blare three times, anything it touches. Mario will warning me that Bouldergeist’s swing it by its magenta tongue, Daredevil Run is waiting; how- and if it doesn’t hit anything ever, I saw the Daredevil Comet by the time its tongue is close orbiting Ghostly Galaxy, while to Mario, it’ll explode in a ball observing. The battle is the of blazing flames, and dam- same, just with Mario with one age Mario. After the Bomb Boo HP. That didn’t stop my heart part of the level, I got outside, pounding, my palms sweating, and Mario got hit by a spider nor Mario dying four times be- enemy swinging from a web; fore earning his Star. another spider gently pushed I was about to go to Bowser Mario into a black hole. I could level, but I realized Buoy Base not find anything annoying Galaxy has another Star, this Above artwork by TLB Staffer Hailey Patten. 51 January 2021 CHARGING CORNER LUIGI’S REHASHED GALACTIC JOURNEY IN SUPER LUIGI GALAXY 3D ALL STARS EDITION By Katie Stafford Why not I have Mario get a Staff Reporter taste of what Luigi has to go “It’s the night of the Star Fes- through: overshadowed by his tival, and Star Bits are falling twin brother. However, I would from the sky! As everyone cel- have to get all 120 Stars with ebrates, Bowser suddenly ap- Luigi, like I did with Mario. Do pears and lifts the castle - and I really want to get every Power Princess Peach - into space, Star with Luigi for the Final leaving Mario stranded in or- Galaxy, which is a straightfor- bit! It’s here that Mario meets ward path full of purple coins, a curious star child, Luma, and as both Mario brothers collect a mysterious woman in blue . . The Star Festival Power Star? If . This game included new ways I was, by nature, a completist, to control Mario, like pointing then yes; but as I am not, then and shaking the Wii Remote, as no. I just gathered all 120 Stars he explores miniature planets with Mario to unlock Luigi, with fun forms of gravity.” This which was no easy task, in my is how 3D All-Stars summa- gaming skill set. The reason I rizes this 2007 Wii game. The said “overshadowed” by Luigi game was initially released on is because this article is Luigi’s November 1, 2007; eleven days journey, and if I had the Final later, it was released for Ameri- Galaxy accessible, I could have cans to play on November 12 of done that galaxy as Mario, then that year. Thanks All-Stars for overshadowed that part of the telling me the America release article with Luigi’s side of the date in the game; you did make game. I guess not now. my job a heck of a lot easier! I was thinking the opening of However, that doesn’t stop my Luigi’s journey would be seeing one complaint I have with this it through his eyes the open- Maybe by the time he’s gath- Instead, Luigi wakes to a game: Super Mario Galaxy 2 ing with Mario. With Mario, ered his courage to look out the silvery-pinkish Luma telling (and Mario 64 DS) should have he’s racing to the castle, then window again, he sees Mario as him to play hide-and-seek been in this nostalgic pack- blasted into the unknown orbit Kamek swoops in to blast Ma- with him, and two other Star age deal of 64, Sunshine, and of space. Maybe Luigi could at rio into orbit. Horrified by what Bunnies. I can say, Luigi slides Galaxy. If 2D All-Stars could the castle, talking with Toads just happened to his twin, and a lot when stopping, and I’m add what we Americans know while sipping a glass of water frightened by what could hap- a little worried about ice gal- as Lost Levels and what Japa- or some kind of colored liquid pen to him, he might freeze in axies, like Freezeflame. And nese players know as Mario that could be most likely juice place, out of view of the win- Luigi feels like he runs faster Bros. USA (aka two sequels to (Nintendo in the 90’s would dow, or pace a bit, trembling. than Mario, but his long jump the very first Super Mario Bros. make references to alcoholism, Captain Toad could appear, has a shorter distance while his game), this game not including not in the late 2000s), and he and silently guide Luigi and jumps are twice the height of the two Galaxy games, at least, or the Toads see Bowser’s air- the other Toads to their ship: Mario’s jumps. After getting all has no excuse whatsoever. ship coming. the Starshroom. the Star Bunnies, Rosalina then Warning: I am not getting Understandably curious but It could be that Kamek has appears. all 120 Stars; I’ll aim for the daunted, Luigi, and maybe the noticed the Starshroom as it’s She explains her name is Ro- minimum 60 Stars to beat Su- Toads cowering behind him, about to blast off. He takes care salina, she protects the cosmos, per Luigi Galaxy. If the reader peer out a window. Luigi spots of Luigi just as he’s about to and she’ll give Luigi Luma, who wishes to read my galactic his brother, and before he can enter last or first, and this has she’ll entrust with his care. She journey to collecting all 120 wave and call or give some him sent into the same fate wishes Luigi and I well that the Stars, then check out my Super kind of signal to Mario, Peach’s as Mario: blasted into the un- stars will shine down on us be- Mario Galaxy review. Original- castle begins to prepare to lift known. Meanwhile, the fright- fore vanishing, and saying how ly, I was just going to play Super into outer space, and this has ened Toads could have escaped a great disaster has struck, like Mario Galaxy without a review Luigi either duck away from while Luigi was sent into orbit, it did for us. Even though this of it, and do the review of Lu- the window out of fright or he’s or Kamek decided the Toads - is post-game, it’s telling me ev- igi’s side of the journey, but de- knocked off his feet by a trem- led by Captain Toad - couldn’t erything like this is something cided to do two reviews. or of the earth being cut by the be any threat, and let them I’m just experiencing for the lasers. leave. first time. January 2021 52 CHARGING CORNER LUIGI’S REHASHED GALACTIC JOURNEY IN SUPER LUIGI GALAXY 3D ALL STARS EDITION CONT’D “This is easy. This is child’s hot mozzarella, before you’re ing, colorful games with the longer the distance from the play,” I say; I was told to find yanked into an all-encompass- most horror elements in them? observatory and galaxy. Seri- the Star Chips, and because I’m ing darkness that swallows you First Origami King, then Sun- ously, the game telling me how still not used to Luigi’s slide, whole.” Oh, and the headline shine, and now Galaxy. What’s to play after I beat the game, I watch a screaming Luigi get is: “What happens if you fall next, Nintendo? Mario and/ and gathered all 120 Stars, as sucked in a blackhole. Guess into a black hole? Infinite suf- or Luigi riding a unicorn in Mario is getting on my nerves. I walked right into that blun- fering, body ‘spaghettification’ a lush green meadow with I know the difference between der the moment I opened my and your past ERASED” What double rainbows in a cloudless a Launch Star and Sling Star, I mouth. Hold on. What hap- is “spaghettification” then? blue sky, and it’s an underlying know I need Power Stars to get pens if Mario or Luigi are swal- Reader, truthfully, I hesitated horrid tale of Toads poverty- to the center of the universe, lowed up in a blackhole, as it every word or so when I wrote stricken while many are slain and I know the more Power can’t be them, alone and afraid, that last sentence, and I forced by an unknown evil ruler of the Stars I have, the more galaxies to die in darkness? There has to myself to write the below para- Mushroom Kingdom, with the I can go to and explore. be more than crashing waves graph. princess a slave to this ruler, or Good Egg Galaxy with its of fear for the brothers while According to www.science. captured by Bowser with him Dino Piranha Power Star is up. slowly dying in a black void, howstuffworks.com, “Astrono- not knowing the new evil rul- I did pretty well for the first floating with no food or water, mers call this spaghettification er? (Reader, I was being sarcas- two or three planets, then I fell with only themselves, Luma, because the intense gravita- tic. Nintendo would be either into a blackhole. I don’t know and sheer terror to keep them tional field pulls you into a out of their minds or outright if the research I did or not, but company. I need to see if their long, thin piece of spaghetti. masterminds to make that plot Luigi’s screams seem to be a screams are complete terror, or ... Either way, spaghettification work successfully.) combination of terror and ag- a mix of fear and pain. leads to a painful conclusion. Saving the Grand Star wasn’t ony, and not just outright fear; First of all, a blackhole means When the tidal forces exceed too hard. At the Comet Obser- there seems to be an underly- not even light can escape, so the elastic limits of your body, vatory, Rosalina explains where ing trace of pain behind his cry this isn’t something where you’ll snap apart at the weakest Luigi stands as the home of her as he’s swallowed in the black- Lakitu can appear and fish point, probably just above the and her star children, the Lu- hole. Luigi and Mario to safety, like hips.” How painful will this ac- mas. She adds, “Please, I have “Watch out! After you spin how he saves them in sticky tually be? Www.universetoday. a request . . . This observatory once, you have to wait until situations in the Mario Kart com then explains: “Because of uses Star Power to protect im- your Luma comes back before series. In fact, the research is the tidal forces it would feel as ages of the galaxies that are you can spin again!” warns a so strange that I’m wonder- if you are being stretched head scattered across space. And . . . Luma I never spoke to while ing how we humans found out to toe, while your sides would there is a chance we can use our playing the game as Mario. Af- what does happen if a fellow feel like they are being pushed few remaining stars to look for ter I speak to the Luma, I en- human were sucked in a black- inward. Eventually the tidal other Power Stars.” The camera ter the battle with the newly hole. It’s that strange, and no, I forces would become so strong goes to a small grassy hill with hatched Dino Piranha. I can tell don’t feel like finding out how that they would rip you apart. a yawning darkness leading Luigi is faster, since I, when I we humans knew what hap- This effect of tidal stretching is into it. “Those round rooms was playing with Mario, it took pens to our bodies through the sometimes boringly referred to are called domes. We observe a bit longer because of how fast experience in a blackhole. as spaghettification.” Reader, galaxies from domes such as the little one was compared to According to www.bbc. I’m sorry for the research done these. But the only one that is Mario. With fast but very slip- com, “You might expect to about spaghettification. working now is powered by the pery Luigi, the fight was over get crushed, or maybe torn to First, “boringly referred to Star Power you restored, is this within ten seconds, or it could pieces. But the reality is strang- as spaghettification,” sounds one . . . the Terrace. Please go to be I knew what the fight was. er than that. The instant you terrifying, not boring like the the Terrace and try to recover One of the two or both. entered the black hole, reality article said. Second, I can’t be- the Power Stars from the gal- I chuckle. When Mario re- would split in two. In one, you lieve the Mario brothers being axies you can see from there. If turns to the Observatory, he would be instantly incinerated, turned into human spaghetti we do that, we’ll be able to re- takes off his cap, sighing, as and in the other you would when being swallowed in a store the Comet Observatory’s if catching his breath, while plunge into the hole utterly blackhole, and I know Mario ability to fly like a starship.” Luma’s out, who returns a mo- unharmed.” loves pasta, and since spaghetti “Welcome! This dome acts as ment before he puts his hat I wish I’d stayed with the is a type of pasta dish, that just an eye of the observatory. From back on. With Luigi, who does first website I checked out. added another layer of disturb- here, we can gaze upon distant a little twirl, however, Luma Why did I go further than one ing to this gruesome death galaxies,” the dark Luma states. pops out before bouncing on article? Why? Www.thesun. the two brothers are suffering. After the blue Luma forms into his hat; Luma returns as Luigi co.uk.com states: “FIRST your Third, why is it always - and I a Pull Star, the luma explains signs as well, this one sounding insides are strung out like mean always! - the happy-look- the bigger the number, the more out of relief Luma has 53 January 2021 CHARGING CORNER LUIGI’S REHASHED GALACTIC JOURNEY IN SUPER LUIGI GALAXY 3D ALL STARS EDITION CONT’D either stopped bumping into hot lava is even more fun than him or he knows he’ll be able with Mario. to star spin. (I heard the spin Bee Luigi Takes Flight is the jump in this game can also be first Star at Honeyhive Galaxy. called star spin, which sounds Unlike Bee Mario with those cooler, and I’ll call it that in this killer bees hefting buckets of review.) honey, Bee Luigi was able to A Snack of Cosmic Propor- buzz calmly without any bee tions is next up. If the reader trying to send him to the fate of has read my review of Super spaghettification. The Queen Mario Galaxy, then he or she Bee was really nice, though knows what’s coming next. she complained of itchiness. “Hey, you! Yeah, you! Got any I learned Bee Luigi seems to tasty Star Bits? If you feed me climb faster than Bee Mario; a bunch of Star Bits, I’ll burst maybe Luigi likes being a bee with snacky happiness and much more than Mario. then transform! I’m famished! I paused the game to drink I need 100 Star Bits to curb the some water, then accidentally hunger pangs!” the Hungry returned to the Comet Obser- Toad and the Toad Brigade is “Twenty!?” I exclaim. Icy fear Luma says. Hold on for one vatory . . . without the Star. I exploring the galaxies, anyway. crashes over me. The 20 1-UPs minute. Do these star-shaped was a little disappointed, but I stare curiously at Bee Lu- could either mean the game is blobs of pixels even know what not much. Upon my return, igi. I need to see the first Star being very generous to me, or “famished” means? It means the game decided to scare me. in Ghostly Galaxy; will I save the game is tougher on Luigi being hungry, and if someone I realized there’s a 1-UP just Mario or Luigi, when I’m play- than Mario, and the game is is hungry they’re not going to before the slide at Honeyhive; ing as Luigi? Anyway, Captain giving me more tries. I take the be waving color-changing Star- I grabbed the mushroom, then Toad gives Luigi a Power Star. 20 mushrooms, and then speak Bit-shaped balloons, asking an enemy hit Bee Luigi, who Luigi lands in front of Rosali- to Captain Toad, explaining for a complete stranger wear- went back to normal Luigi, na once he returns to the Ob- they’re building a Starshroom, ing overalls and a green cap to one HP removed, and I waited servatory. The silver-blonde- and they’re there for him. feed them, and this isn’t even while holding my breath for haired woman says, “Luigi . . Trouble on the Tower is an considering their food source Luigi’s scream as he was sucked . Your name is Luigi, isn’t it? easy Star; just get rid of the is falling from the galactic sky into a blackhole. However, I That is what I heard from your boss Mandibug, which is an - literally! - or scattered across saw Luigi on the slide; either friends who just arrived. Luigi . easy ground pound. Big Bad the many galaxies. Sure, a few the slide was broad enough to . . it has such a nice ring.” Rosa- Bugaboom is a boss fight, with galaxies don’t have as many catch him, or more likely, I was lina, I agree about Luigi’s name only three ground pounds us- Star Bits naturally scattered hit at the right angle for the having a nice ring to it, and ing Bee Luigi, and dodging the around, but their food is lit- slide to save Luigi. just think, before he was given bombs the boss poops out is erally falling from the sky in “AAUGH! A BEE!” Captain that name, players called him easy, since Bee Luigi can cling space, so it’s like starvation in Toad screams. “. . . What?! Lu- Green Mario. She tells Luigi onto honeycombs. And anoth- a galaxy with not a lot of Star igi? Hey . . . It IS you! We es- and I that his friends are at the er easy Star has to be feeding a Bits is even an option! How- caped from Peach’s Castle too! Garage, and he should speak Hungry Luma, who births the ever, I have no more fight with But then we thought Bowser to them. I never spoke to them Sweet Sweet Galaxy, and col- this issue. would get us, and then we got while playing as Mario, but I lecting the Rocky Road Power Because I knew King Ka- lost with Luigi . . .” But Luigi is decided to speak to them. Star. I did learn Luigi’s long liento’s Spicy Return could well in front of you, Captain Toad. I stop at the Mailtoad, who jump is both a blessing and a be one of the last Stars Luigi You just became shocked to see gives Luigi a letter from Peach, curse, since a long jump nearly gathers before facing Bowser Bee Luigi in front of you. Why addressed to Mario. Seeing killed him by leading him to for the final battle, I decided say you “got lost with Luigi . . that, I laugh, but the Mailtoad a hole, but, luckily, Luigi wall King Kaliento’s Battle Fleet .”? It makes sense if Nintendo then reassures Luigi, “Huh? jumped off the side of the hole, would be a good idea. Since showed the player the scene It’s addressed to Mario . . . star spun, and landed on a stray Luigi’s so slippery in his move- of how Luigi got on that Star Don’t be upset, Luigi. Hang in 1-UP mushroom. ments, the battle with batting Bunny hide-and-seek planet, there! Princess Peach added 20 Before tackling Bowser Jr.’s the non-flaming coconuts at but they don’t. And I doubt 1-UP Mushrooms in her letter. Robot Reactor, I decided to the octus-like King Kaliento Nintendo forgot this line of di- Would you like them now?” I do Flipswitch Galaxy for the while he bathes in roiling red- alogue explaining how Captain can choose yes or no. Painting the Planet Yellow January 2021 54 CHARGING CORNER LUIGI’S REHASHED GALACTIC JOURNEY IN SUPER LUIGI GALAXY 3D ALL STARS EDITION CONT’D Power Star; Painting the Plan- Collide at Freezeflame, along ficult, since she spawns a good of the gravity-shifting plat- et Yellow is another easy Star, with Space Junk, just so per- two Magikoopas to stop Luigi. form to below it. As Luigi, his since it’s merely just turning fectly emulate this that the They’re slightly harder than blackflips, side somersaults, the tiles from blue to yellow. I music can’t be described oth- Kamella; that’s something I and even a simple jump, all could do Loopdeeloop Galaxy, er than raw. There’s making shouldn’t have to say about the combined with a star spin, al- but I do not feel like surfing on soundtracks for levels in vid- boss: The actual boss is easier low him to clear the lasers with a stingray for this review, so I’m eo games, then there’s doing than her lower-ranking com- little to no problem. Breaking skipping it. what Super Mario Galaxy (and rades! However, the final blow into the Battlerock is the sec- Megaleg’s Moon is the only most likely it’s successor did): was downright hilarious to me: ond Star at Battlerock. Star at Bowser Jr.’s Robot Re- creating soundtracks with so Kamella was able to hit Luigi This Star has a hidden Star actor. I was able to cheese the much passion, love, care, and when he struck her with the fi- feeding a Hungry Luma. When fight, since, out of panic with a dedication that it’s like feel- nal green shell. I played this game as Mario, I Bullet Bill chasing me, I leaped ing the blood, sweat, and tears Because I don’t want to fight did both Garbage-Dump Stars, at the Grand Star, on the other these people did to make the Tarantox in his massive spider and trying to blow up trash in side of the fence, and the Bul- soundtracks so awe-inspiring. web today, I’m not going to 30 seconds with bombs again let Bill destroyed Megalegs. I Even with how wonderful fight him. I’ll do Rolling Green doesn’t sound fun at all. So, I laughed when Luigi whooped, the soundtrack for this game Galaxy instead. Rolling in the ignore the starving Luma to shouting out, “Staaaaar!” Hav- is, I find gathering the silver Clouds is a Star where Mario or save a trapped one, who trans- ing returned, Rosalina explains stars as Luigi, when the float- Luigi are on a massive golden, forms, giving Luigi a Sling Star. the beacon - a blazing ball of ing junk forms a path for me as translucent ball, which is be- I ended up dying to the Pull flame roiling at the center of I’m creeping through it, scarier ing powered by the Star seen at Star bit, since I was rushing. the observatory - will regain a than it did with Mario. I guess the center. The player has to tilt But when I took my time on my little more power with each re- it has to be Luigi slides when with their JoyCons, or Switch next try, I did it. trieved Grand Star. stopping, and stopping either (handheld). “Hey, now! If “Ow!” Luigi shouts. He I’m told the Fountain is ac- Mario and Luigi is needed to you’re thinking about just roll- grabbed a bom-omb, threw cessible, and that means Space keep dying in this galaxy at a ing that ball away, you’d better it at the glass, and freed the Junk Galaxy is the first galaxy minimum. I didn’t die, and it listen to old Bill Board here,” a needed cannon. However, he I head off to, with Pull Star was doable, but it was a little sign says before explaining how was caught at the edge of the Path being the first Star. I real- frightening. However, walking to use the golden ball. It isn’t blazing fire and dark smoke. ize Space Junk Galaxy may be on an abandoned rocketship too bad of a level, especially for After saving the Launch Star a galaxy full of floating junk, is still oddly fun, and makes teaching the player. from the double crystals Lu- but the soundtrack is wonder- me wish Nintendo added a few Rosalina mentions Prankster igi destroys with the cannon, ful. In fact, there’s hardly a gal- more lifeless spaceships, but Comets, and says to talk to a fat I died when getting the next axy I find lacking in its music then Space Junk wouldn’t be as purple Luma who knows about bom-omb to the caged Launch (Dusty Dune Galaxy being the special. them. I see there’s a Speedy Star. only one I find so lacking in “Ooh! This is going to be Comet, which gives the player I decided to do Topmaniac its theme that it almost feels easy!” I say, struggling not to a limited amount of time to and the Topman Tribe. Saving like there isn’t one). I learned, laugh. Kamella’s Airship At- complete a level, and is orbit- the Luma from the Topman, an by how All-Stars describes the tack is the second Star at Space ing Good Egg Galaxy; it’s just enemy that’s like a top, and a wonderful soundtrack for this Junk Galaxy, and her fight was doing the first Star, just in star spin at the lasers is how to game, that it was a full orches- so easy I found her daredevil four minutes. Another Speedy get rid of them, was easy. That tra: “This soundtrack marks run battle at Deep Dark Galaxy Comet orbits Space Junk, and part leads to a gravity-shifting the first use of a full orchestra going from stupidly childish to it’s the first Power Star, like section, full of crushing plat- in the Super Mario series. This a little interesting. Good Egg. However, a scream- forms, rotating ones, and plat- bright, bittersweet, and inspir- After traveling through the ing Luigi was sent into a black- forms that push the player to ing sounds of this score work airship fleets to Kamella’s. She hole, because I had a minute to the gravity-shifting section to capture the majesty of space wears purple robes, not the find the silver stars. from before. However, Luigi’s exploration. These tracks were blue that Kamek wears, and is Although I could do Bowser’s broken in this game, like about originally released in Japan as easier than even Boom-Boom Star Reactor now, I decided to as broken as his Mario 64 DS a two-disc ex- and Pom-Pom combined; in explore Battlerock Galaxy. Bat- broken counterpart’s backflips. clusive.” fact, she’s making Hissocrat tlerock Barrage showed how His high jump in general is so And this is true. Soundtracks from Mario 3D World look nearly-broken Luigi’s high good in this game, that I was like King Bowser, Final Battle hard. She’s just simply throw- jumps are. As playing with to clear the gravity-shifting with Bowser, Gusty Gardens, ing three shells at her. I have to Mario, the gamer needs to run section in about ten seconds, Buoy Base, and Hot and Cold say her third phase is a little dif- back and forth between on top when I cleared this part of the 55 January 2021 CHARGING CORNER LUIGI’S REHASHED GALACTIC JOURNEY IN SUPER LUIGI GALAXY 3D ALL STARS EDITION CONT’D level in about two minutes Bubble Breeze Galaxy; not that two brothers meet) he’ll give since the moment Luigi rockets with Mario. I don’t like the galaxy, as I don’t out letters to Mailtoad for Ma- out of the water, it’s some basic Topmaniac is an easy, but fun feel like doing it. Luigi and the rio to find him. If Luigi talks to wall jumps to the crystallized boss. Just get rid of his little Haunted Mansion is the name Luigi, he’ll say, “Hey, me! You’re Star. Passing the Swim Test just comrades, jump on him, then of the first Star at Ghostly Gal- looking for Power Stars, right? has the player snatching the star spin him to the lasers to axy. It could mean Luigi, the I think I missed one in Good golden shell from the penguin, damage him. I saw a Daredevil player’s character, is exploring Egg Galaxy. I’ll write a letter if I and giving it to the swimming Comet, and this comet can al- the haunted mansion to save find it. Check the mail!” instructor, who’ll say, “Nice job low the player to fight an en- Mario. Instead of doing the A Very with the test! But . . . are you emy or run through a certain “What?!” I ask; Luigi trem- Spooky Sprint Power Star, I even one of my students?” level with only one HP. Topma- bles in the mansion right be- spin star a glowing rock to un- I don’t do The Undersea Cav- niac’s Daredevil Run was fun, fore Luigi lands on a green earth a Launch Star. Getting ern Power Star, instead I do the since I beat him without killing mushroom-shaped ship. I the Matter Splatter Mansion secret Star. Once I open the his comrades first, and did re- knew when Mario saves Luigi, Star wasn’t too hard. At certain chest that unlocks the Launch sult in one death. his brother explains he got lost parts Luigi’s high jump made Star, it’s using Ice Luigi. Ice Lu- Bowser’s Star Reactor: The Fi- with the Toads; what would it easier, and there were times igi is caked in ice, instead of ery Stronghold is next. There’s Luigi say to himself? Would where his slippery controls the light blue outfit with red a lot of parkour of shifting he be even more afraid and were downright a curse. I did overalls blasting frosty balls of gravity, Twomps able to crush only give up the Power Star out a scary-looking jump to the ice at enemies. He can skate on the player, firebars, and even of fear of what this imposter first, and I just narrowly got it. ice (which normal Luigi can do machines that spit fire at Lu- might do to him? Or would he The moment I return, I have to also), but Ice Luigi can walk igi. At one point, I thought I talk a bit about maybe outer save Luigi at Good Egg. While on water by freezing a patch of could avoid the shifting gravity space is finally getting to his I had to do a very sloppy slope- ice on it. However, the power- by getting on the Twomp, and head, and he needs to rest, climb with Mario, a simple tri- up is timed, so the player has long jump, which resulted in once he’s taken away from the ple jump and star spin is more to be fast in wall jumping off a screaming Luigi to be swal- scary mansion? than enough to reach Luigi on the roaring waterfalls. There’s lowed in a black hole. Towards Getting to Luigi wasn’t hard. the rooftop. When I reached a few Cataquacks; one to help the end, Bowser expels fireballs The Boos need to be destroyed him, I jumped off his head, reach the coin to spawn the Ice at the player, and he only stops with light, and the Boo Mush- and into the orange pipe. Once Flower, and another to get Ice when Mario or Luigi get over to room is easy to use; shake or I left the pipe, Luigi said, “You Luigi to reach the Wall Jump- him. press Y to vanish, and mash A came to save me again! I know ing up Waterfalls Power Star. With King Bowser’s to float Boo Luigi higher. At I could rely on . . . me! Whaaa? Bowser Jr.’s Airship Armada: soundtrack increasing and seeing his perfect doppelgang- The Power Star? Yeah, I got it Sinking the Airships is last. In- decreasing if Bowser is hit, er standing in front of him, the right here!” stead of traveling on planets, and the battle feeling too easy fearful, cowering Luigi will ex- Even though I had enough to the player is boarding a fleet after the final battle as Mario, claim, “Oh my . . . Are you me? get the Grand Star, I went off to of airships, and blasting out Bowser is defeated after his tail Well, I guess there’s enough Beach Bowl Galaxy for a Star or of cannons from one ship to is on fire from the lava-cored people in the universe for one two; however, I noticed Rosa- the next. Last part is dodging planet. If playing with Mario, person to look like me . . . Any- lina’s library is open. The first enemies and cannonballs to- Bowser will say he chooses well way, I found a Power Star! Let’s chapter is the same as the one wards the final airship, where in Mario being his archenemy, take it back!” with Mario: a girl finds a Luma, the battle will be fought. since he does put up a decent “Welcome back! I can see your who lost its mother, and the The battle was chaotic, but fight, but Bowser will tell Luigi twin from here. If you ask him, two spend a long time search- in a fun way. Bowser Jr. watches he’s foolish, and his plan is too I bet he’ll help you search for ing for the Luma’s mother on from his ship, and Luigi has far along. Another Grand Star Power Stars. And I’m sure he the girl’s home planet before to throw Koopa shells at him. having been recovered, Rosa- has a lot to tell you. You should they leave for space to find her. Some blue-robed Magikoopa lina explains Luigi’s “special go speak to him over there by I’m not reading any more chap- join the fight; once Bowser Jr. one” was taken to the center of the Garage,” Rosalina tells Lu- ters in this review, nor entering has had enough of three Koopa the universe, and they’ll need igi. His “twin” isn’t Mario; it’s her library. shells slamming into his ship, more power to fly the Observa- the Luigi from Ghostly Galaxy. Beach Bowl: Sunken Treasure he’ll personally join the fray tory like a starship. However, If Mario speaks to Luigi, the is first. While the clear water as well. All the while, I’m busy she doesn’t mention that the green-clad fellow will then ex- murmurs against the sandy making Luigi star spin near a Kitchen is now accessible. plain he’s beat, and wishes luck beaches, topped with lush Koopa to grab its shell, then I needed to see the first Star at to Mario to find some, or - ex grass, Luigi has to find Star running around the airship I’m Ghostly Galaxy, and I won’t do plains (during the first time the Chips. It isn’t a hard Star to get, on to avoid the magical spells January 2021 56 CHARGING CORNER LUIGI’S REHASHED GALACTIC JOURNEY IN SUPER LUIGI GALAXY 3D ALL STARS EDITION CONT’D and fireballs, and once Bowser before tackling Freezeflame ders and icy bats only defeated it can be tackled in two ways: Jr. joins in, it’s avoiding Bullet Galaxy, I’ll do a Cosmic Comet, using the Fire Flower. I died a One, Luigi can do a scary- Bills and flaming cannonballs which is racing a mirror of ei- few times from these enemies looking, but doable long jump from his ship’s Bowser-head- ther Mario or Luigi, and it’s or- that shove Luigi off the snowy around the gate; two, he can do shaped cannon. biting Honeyhive. mountainside, but I was able to a backflip, wall-jump, and star Rosalina explains all the I found out Cosmic Lu- grab the Star. spin, aiming behind him. With lower-level domes are pow- igi takes the shortest path to Meanwhile, The Frozen Peak Mario, it takes a little more ered now, and once the Engine the Star, while Cosmic Mario of Baron Brrr is scaling the skill, because his jump isn’t Room has power, the Comet takes the straightforward path, rest of the main path, past the too high; with Luigi, it’s not Observatory can “fly like a star- which usually isn’t the quick- Launch Star. Luigi leaps over so much skill, as it’s more the ship” and the player can save est. Honeyhive Cosmic Luigi his frosty shockwave, spins ability to press buttons in a cor- Luigi’s “special one.” The bed- Race is the name of the Star. jump right beside him, then rect sequence fast enough. Se- room is now accessible. The With the Shadow-Mario theme star spinning him where he’ll riously, I’m wondering which first one I’ll play has to be one playing, I tried to beat him. land after hopping around for a Luigi is more broken: Galaxy of the best - maybe the best - I only stopped trying when I bit. The only thing annoying is Luigi or 64 DS Luigi, because non-battle theme for a galaxy: long jumped where the slide if the player is knocked off the both are just so broken in their Gusty Garden. started, thinking I could get a small area, it’ll be getting to the move sets, it’s unbelievable The first Power Star is called headstart when I was lagging nearby Ice Flower, then return half the time. Bunnies in the Wind. Luigi behind, and Luigi floated in to Baron Brrr. There’s a Cosmic Comet orbit- has to use the Floaty Fluff to space for a good four to five sec- Going from the icy heat of ing Freezeflame. “I was there!” glide his way to the planets, onds before the blackhole sud- freezing on a snowy mountain- I say, half-laughing. Skating on with little puzzles that in- denly pulled him in so fast the side, Luigi enters the broiling the ice to beat Cosmic Luigi’s volve killing enemies to land camera had trouble following hotness of red-hot lava roil- fun, but I made a mistake in my on the final planet, which is Luigi’s position. All I heard was ing at stone platforms under button pressing. I was mean- to catch the Star Bunny. The his screams of pain and terror his feet. The next Star is called ing to long jump, but ground Dirty Tricks of Major Burrows before the camera finally man- Freezeflame’s Blistering Core. pounded towards a blackhole is the second Star. The level aged to focus on the blackhole, After getting the Star Chips instead. My laughter nearly is centered around the player then the game sent me back to on the icy ring, and just before drowned out Luigi’s screams. learning how to ground pound the inside of the Terrace. I ran geysers of lava shoot skywards, I was able to beat him on my near the moles, then star spin- over to the Bedroom, going off I notice everything on screen is second try, and I found skating ning to damage them, so the to do Freezeflame Galaxy. wavering slightly, like an end- on ice, whether racing Cosmic gamer knew how to defeat the The secret Star (Conquering less heatwave. Mario or Cosmic Luigi, really boss, Major Burrow. My favor- the Summit) was the first Star This level is mainly using the fun. The race had adrenaline ite bit of the level has to be I wanted to do in the Freez- timed Fire Flower. Fire Luigi pumping through my veins where Luigi’s on these massive eflame Galaxy, instead of The expels fireballs, which light while my heart pounded. And apples, and he has to ground Frozen Peak of Baron Brrr. the torches with yellow-orange it’s so satisfying to bounce on pound these tree stumps - not First, I had to catch a penguin blazing flames clawing at the Cosmic Luigi for a small head- the apple stem - to force green on a ring of ice; the penguin hot air, and allow him to go start. worms out of the apple. With kept calling Luigi (and Mario) further into the level. There’s a Hot and Cold Collide is really their heads in the next apple, an “old man,” but the Mario wall-jumping section; a part to where the Freezeflame Galaxy the worms are too busy gulping brothers aren’t that old. Sure, have Luigi ignite torches from shines. This Star got me won- down their meal of apple to no- they’re not teenagers, but they across lava, with the bounc- dering if the name of this gal- tice a plumber walking on their seem to be in their late twen- ing fireballs a little touch and axy came first, or the concept bodies. Major Burrows isn’t ties, or early or mid-thirties. go if they meet their intended for this Star did. It’s kind of too hard, after all the practice After it’s two well-placed tri- target, which is where the Star like that riddle of “Which came within the level. ple jumps to a not-so-hidden is; and a part to reveal stone first: the chicken or the egg?” Even though I have enough Launch Star, which takes him stairs with having the torches It’s a question where it seems Power Stars to do Dusty Dune to the Fire Flower. Wearing blaze to life. But there are these obvious, but the more some- Galaxy, I’m not doing the des- the usual outfit he wears for red uchrin-like enemies rolling one thinks about it, they then ert-themed galaxy because the a Fire Flower, Luigi has to be towards the player throughout realize the answer isn’t so black Stars are a little too similar, quick melting the snowman the level. However, getting to and white. The moment I enter and the overall soundtrack is with blazing orange-yellow the first Fire Flower is interest- the galaxy, the two soundtracks too bland to even be enjoyable fireballs scattered throughout ing. from before - Ice Mountain to enter the galaxy just for the the mountain, as it slowly nar- There’s a gate caging the play- from Frosty Peak of Baron Brrr music. No way. So, I decided rows to a point. There’s boul- er from the rest of the level; and Lava Path of Freezeflame’s 57 January 2021 CHARGING CORNER LUIGI’S REHASHED GALACTIC JOURNEY IN SUPER LUIGI GALAXY 3D ALL STARS EDITION CONT’D Blistering Core - both merge player to get through it without me sooner next time, me! Yeah, leaping over shockwaves, and into one. It fits so well that I having Luigi . . . without him . yeah, you want this Power Star, then he has to dive underwater wonder if the merged track . . How do I phrase this? Luigi, right? Tell Rosalina I found this to grab the Star. Meanwhile, existed first, or the separate from the place - usually his feet one!” The Star is a Green Star, the Green Star is freeing the tracks did. It’s probably a mix - he’s trapped in some kind of and since I have no desire to trapped warp pipe, then guid- of the two, since Nintendo purple stuff, has his body slow- hunt down the last two Green ing a Bullet Bill to the Green will want to make sure the ly turned into ashes, by the Stars purposely, I won’t do the Star once leaving the pipe. This soundtracks can both stand looks of it. Once Luigi’s been Trial Galaxies. galaxy is fine; however, the on their own and blend nicely reduced to literally nothing, Not only did I not want to soundtrack is about as good as with one another. he dies. It seems Luigi was de- do Dusty Dune Galaxy, but I Gusty Garden Galaxy. Luigi slams onto the icy ring, stroyed by the molecular level didn’t feel like doing Sea Slide I decided Gold Leaf was next, but miniature suns, mottled so thoroughly he was wiped Galaxy, so I either had to do even though I had enough yellow and yellow with flecks out of existence completely. one or the other, since I most for Toy Time. The first Star of white, are expelling blazing That is just really scary to real- likely wouldn’t have enough is called Star Bunnies on the balls of flame at him while he ize and think about. Power Stars if I skipped both. Hunt. With golden-brown skates, once I star spin while Anyway, Luigi’s backflip is Sea Slide was going to be bear- leaves caking the first big plan- grounded. I realize the suns a death sentence if using that able for only it’s last Star, which et of this galaxy, Luigi has to aren’t just randomly there; they move to prepare him for the I find fun. I headed off to Sea find five blue Star Chips, and were there, hovering behind new shift in gravity. The best Slide, thinking it was going to once he does that, it’s chasing the ice ring, visible when the way is to have him heave him- be worse than . . . Oh, no. The a bunny. player flies towards the frosty self towards the new position Cosmic Mario race I did in the The next Star (Cataquack to ring, for two (or three, if count- once the player finds an open- first review of this game was the Skies) is a really fun lev- ing the secret Star) Power Stars ing to do so. The battle with hard enough, but doing it with el at Gold Leaf Galaxy. The from Freezeflame. Bowser is the same as last time, Cosmic Luigi, who goes to the Cataquacks tossing Luigi in Past that part, Luigi has to get but he has a move that seems to fastest route the Star, was going the air made me wish Super a Fire Flower, and race towards be the star spin now. I thought to be even worse. Mario Sunshine did a level cen- two torches that need to be lit, it was the first fight with Bows- Forget it; I don’t care how dull tered around the Cataquacks while freezing waters rise and er that he talks about how he and bland Dusty Dune Galaxy like this, at first. Towards the lower. Lastly, it’s using the Ice chose the correct person to be is, since I rather do five (includ- end, they were really annoy- Flower to skate on both lava his archenemy. It’s actually this ing the Green Star and Speedy ing - tossing Luigi in the air and ice. Overall, this is a short, fight, and he says it to Luigi as Comet) Stars in that galaxy when I didn’t want them to, but really enjoyable level, and well. than four Stars where one was or forcing me to lure them both Flowers get to shine, and Once I return, Rosalina ex- going to be next to impossible away from a part where they it doesn’t feel like the hot part plains they’ve ascertained for me. Nothing interesting is could get stuck. In fact, one nor the cold part is given too where Luigi’s “special one” going to be happening in that Cataquack did force me to lure much limelight; it’s just right. is, then the number of Power galaxy; it’s a lot of sand, torna- it around in circles for a min- Bowser’s Dark Matter Plant Stars the player needs for the does, and Luigi being pushed ute, since it kept getting stuck, seems to be next, but I want to final battle shows just below forward by sand. However, af- and then I could guide it to the tackle the final Star at Gusty Luigi’s feet. Because I need 24 ter narrowly getting the secret wooden tower. With that stu- Gardens first. I only have 34 Power Stars, and I got a letter Star, chased by a Bullet Bill pid Cataquack left behind, I Power Stars, and with me not from Luigi a while back, I guess with only one HP, I decided to could fly Bee Luigi from flower wanting to go over to Dusty saving him from Battlerock collect the Star and Green Star to flower until he received the Dune Galaxy (unless I’m that is my next order in business. at Buoy Base Galaxy. Power Star. It’s an okay Star; if desperate for Power Stars), then Great. The Secret of Buoy Base and the Cataquacks had remained I need all the Stars I can get. Before I do save good old Lu- The Floating Fortress are okay fun, instead of being plain an- However, Gusty Garden’s Grav- igi, I take care of Hurry-Scurry levels. Buoy Base is a massive noying, it would have been bet- ity Scramble quickly turned Galaxy, which has green van- tower, weighed down in the wa- ter. into The Golden Chomp, and I ishing platforms in the shape ter. Once releasing the weight, When It Rains, it Pours is a decided not to get that last Star of satellites; the Star’s called it’s a few simple Luigi-back- fun level overall. The whole at Gusty Gardens. Shrinking Satellites, and it’s flips-and-star-spins to gather concept of using the Bee Mush- Bowser’s Dark Matter Plant an easy one. Even though sav- the needed blue Star Chips to room, and dodging the growl- is where I head off to next. ing Luigi is another easy Pow- spawn Pull Stars to a Launch ing storm clouds pelting rain There’s this one part of the er Star, I can’t help feeling ire Star. He’s rocketed off the sec- is fun, but the battle with the level where the gravity shifts once he says, “Bwah! I thought ond planet, where he has to do mole firing bubbles is too easy, constantly, and it’s up to the I go nuts in there! Try to save a grounded spin jump, while even with spikes surrounding January 2021 58 CHARGING CORNER LUIGI’S REHASHED GALACTIC JOURNEY IN SUPER LUIGI GALAXY 3D ALL STARS EDITION CONT’D him. The level portion is really forms in the shape of Mario. later, I won the race. When I er’s Galaxy Reactor? King Ka- fun and simple, but the fight I swallow the water flood- knocked Luigi off the tree, he liento’s Spicy Return is first. is too easy. This level would be ing my mouth at seeing what exclaimed, “Owowowow . . . The Bullet Bill section at the better if it was part of the early Bouncing Down Cake Lane Oh, hey, me! I hid because of start I find really not needed, part of the game, but it’s too has to offer. After the train to that big, scary bug! Let’s get the since the rest is batting coco- late into the game to be seen the Launch Star, it’s all about Power Star and go home!” nuts at those octopus enemies. as challenging. As the fight deserts. My stomach growled Honeyclimb Galaxy: Scaling The best way to defeat the boss stands, it’s too easy, especially as I went through the level. the Sticky Wall became my is to keep Luigi moving all the this late into the game. How- Standing on what seems to be seventh Star before I’m able time. Why? Answer: The floor ever, the Cosmic Luigi race is a cinnamon roll, Luigi grabs to defeat Bowser; the galaxy is beneath him sinks into the roil- fine; it’s not Freezeflame-race the Spring Mushroom, then full of honeycombs Bee Luigi ing red-hot lava, there’s blue good, but it’s okay. bounces off the spongy sides climbs on to get to the Power fire enemies, flaming coconuts Toy Time Galaxy is up, which of two pieces of cut cake; then, Star, while enemies and me- to dodge, and the coconut to is the galaxy with the Spring leaping over massive chocolate teorites try to knock him off. bat at towards King Kaliento is Mushroom. Although I was bars. He has to travel around a Meanwhile, Gusty Garden moved a little further before it told for the decade Super Ma- rotating cake to enter another Gravity Scramble was complet- hits him, since the boss sends it rio Galaxy 2 was out, about Launch Star, which leads him ed fully this time; it’s an okay back a few times. how awful the Spring Mush- to slam onto a large waffle Power Star to take. Because I Rosalina says, “The Comet room is, which tainted a nice cone. Instead of parkouring didn’t want to do the Garden Observatory has full power! duo of games, I disagree, as I off the popsicles, a simple long at all, I went off to tackle the Now it can fly through the cos- find these rumors embellished jump clears the distance to the Loopdeeloop Galaxy; however, mos again.” The numbers are (at best), and (at worst) total lollipops. Some unappealing learning how to move was tak- two zeroes now. “It’s time. Do lies. ice parkour commences before ing too long so I had a plan: Get you want to go to the location I find controlling Spring Lu- Luigi uses the star spin to blow the last Green Star, then do the of your special one at the center igi challenging but fun. The out candles on a birthday cake. Loopdeeswoop Galaxy, that of the universe?” I aimed the fact he’s bouncing all over Then, it’s a battle with a mole way I do one out of three of the star cursor at “Go” and pressed the place, and only stopping firing electric balls of yellow Trial Galaxies. A. “All right, then. Off we go!” when he’s about to jump re- light at Spring Luigi. Whether I was at the inverted tower She waves her wand, and ally high, is because he’s tied someone dislikes or likes the of the final Star at Dusty Dune the Comet Observatory, look- up in a big metal spring, which Spring Mushroom, no one can Galaxy when I then realized ing like a random comet, flies is a cool and fun concept. Why deny its potential in battle is I needed to head to the first through the airships. If playing do people say this power-up is seen during this simple fight. or second Star. I was about to the game as Mario, her voice the worst, and hate it with al- “I guess I’m the only one head off to do the Green Star actor will say, “Go, Mario!” but most a burning passion? Sure, then,” I say, watching my cous- Dusty Dune when I saw a Dare- her actor will exclaim, “Go, Lu- I have to admit it isn’t the best in, Autumn, do the final Star devil Comet orbiting Gusty igi!” while explaining in white power-up there is in the Mario at Toy Time. She kept on talk- Garden Galaxy; guess another text there’s a warp field. Then, franchise, but it’s far from the ing to Spring Luigi, then after battle with Major Burrows is in with a glass-and-gold bridge worst. It’s a fine power-up, with ten minutes, said, “I hate this order. forming as he runs across it, a really cool concept and enjoy- power-up,” before handing me Once the battle is done, I go Mario or Luigi head to the cas- ably challenging controls. Even my JoyCons again. Am I the over and get the Green Star, tle. so, is there someone who likes only one who finds the Spring which takes me to the Loop- The Fate of the Universe is the to tell me otherwise? Mushroom as a fine power-up deeswoop Galaxy. And even name of the Power Star. The The first Star is destroying with a cool concept and enjoy- though I never completed the first part of the level is travel- a massive toy robot, which is ably challenging controls? lesson on how to ride the ray, ing on gravity-shifting spot- fun to watch being torn apart, While I pondered this, I did the game thought I did this be- lights, and when I was doing piece by piece. In the second the Drip Drop Galaxy, which is fore, so it just threw Mario, the it, I long jumped, and watched Star, as playing with Mario, just getting rid of three eels not ray, and I into the water. The Luigi become human spaghet- it’s called Mario Meets Mario; allowing some penguins in the galaxy was fun but slow, since ti as a blackhole swallowed instead of what I was thinking water. Mailtoad’s tune plays, I took my time, making sure I him when the gravity shifted, (Luigi Meets Luigi), the next and Luigi is at Honeyhive Gal- wasn’t rushing and risked fall- pushing him into death’s door. Power Star is called Luigi Meets axy, clinging to a tree. I sigh; ing to my death. I now have Next, Luigi leaps over blaz- Mario. The “Mario” part is just I guess Luigi will have to save two more Stars before I beat ing streams of yellow-orange gathering silver stars with plat- Luigi in the galaxy. the game and finish the article. fire, while a sea of lava is below forms that flip or those Hurry- However, I needed to do a Why not do Bowser Jr.’s Lava him, roiling at the black rock, Scurry Galaxy vanishing plat- Cosmic Luigi race; several tries Reactor, then complete Bows- moving graters, and stone plat- 59 January 2021 CHARGING CORNER LUIGI’S REHASHED GALACTIC JOURNEY IN SUPER LUIGI GALAXY 3D ALL STARS EDITION CONT’D forms under his feet. to grab on the way to Bowser. lava and spraying flames like and I, “Do you hear the baby Once passing an icy pathway Bowser explains, “Finally! You steam from air vents is being stars? Those newborns will that appears as he moves, and got here just in time to see the destroyed. “Oh, hello again,” grow up to become galaxies vanishes soon after, it’s a Dusty- creation of my galaxy in the I whisper, seeing Bowser. He someday. When stars die, they Dune sand part with firebars. center of the universe! Watch staggers, then falls on a ledge, turn to stardust and scatter Luigi pretty much stayed in the and weep! From this galaxy, staring into the lava just inch- across the cosmos. Eventually, air for that part, since his long I’ll rule a great galactic empire es from him, then screams, that stardust reforms to create jumps make me wonder if the with Peach by my side. It will “NOOOO! My galaxy! My em- a new Star . . . And so the cycle blackflips Luigi does in Mario last forever! I will rule every pire! This can’t be happening . of life continues. But the cycle 64 DS is more or less broken pitiful corner of the universe. . .” never repeats itself quite the than Luigi’s long jumps in this So, Luigi, as you can see, I have Because the galaxy seems to same way . . . So . . . you’ll see.” game. After I got through this big plans. And stomping you is have collapsed within itself, it She vanishes. wall jumping part, with it be- at the top of my list!” forms a blackhole full of swirl- “Wait! Please don’t, Rosa- ing like the third portion, but Like with Mario, it takes six ing deep reddish-pink light lina!” I say as the whiteness without it being icy, the next blows to finish off Bowser - two against the black. I’m here takes over the screen right be- part was interesting. at the first planet, where it’s watching in horrified silence, fore Luigi wakes at the new The fifth area is full of rotat- hitting his face with him co- since I saw this cutscene two galaxy, where friends and foes ing, hollowed-out circles cov- cooned in rock, looking similar times, but this would be the who normally don’t encounter ered in red-hot lava. A lot of to the Rock Mushroom power- first time I saw it with Luigi. Lu- at their own galaxy, are at this cannons firing Bullet Bills and up in Super Mario Galaxy 2; igi, gingerly holding her hand, new galaxy. Rosalina whispers, Bonzi Bills are there. I died slamming these springy green cries out, releasing her, when “Yes . . . All new life . . . Carries soon after I got there; however, planets at him, while he’s in the castle shudders alarmingly. the essence of stars . . . Even it made me wonder what re- his shell; and catching his tail Both gasp before they and the all of you . . .” Luigi stares at ally killed Luigi. He got hit by on fire at the lava-cored planet. castle and the Comet Observa- the star-flecked blue sky, and a Bullet Bill, and it sapped the The first two planets have King tory are sent flying towards the at the player, shouting, “Wel- last HP he had, but he landed Bowser playing, while the Final blackhole. come! Welcome new galaxy!” in the lava, with him scream- Battle with Bowser soundtrack “Luma,” I breathe, as he pops The credits roll, and at the end, ing in pain, and that’s what got plays on the final planet. Like out. He turns to Luigi and Luigi exclaims, “Thank you for me to retry the level, starting with every fight with Bowser, if waves farewell. I hadn’t been playing my game!” with the wall-jumping part. he’s hit the music increases or aware hot tears were burning I was planning on doing a re- What killed him? It could be decreases. my eyes until Luigi, gaping and view of Super Mario Galaxy 2, the game treated the zero HP I was able to get through the his eyes wide in horror, moved but even if I did have the game, as only him having one HP, battle without anything too closer to Luma, trying to grab which I don’t, I’ll only play it and the lava drained that “one” crazy happening. The player him, either to prevent him for Shiverburn Galaxy and the HP. I don’t know; it’s strange, does have to dodge fireballs from doing what he’s about to Hell Valley Sky Trees. (Note: but funny at the same time. and shockwaves, and I got hit a do, or hug him to say good-bye. for the rest of the time talking Anyway, it took a few tries of few times, but other than I was Luma and many others of his about them, I’ll be putting in stressful parkour while Bullet able to beat Bowser my first try, starry kind, all screaming in “Heck” instead of “Hell,” even Bills shadowed Luigi, but it was there isn’t anything really there what seems to be triumphant, though their model filenames doable. to talk about. float to the hole. The blackhole are BeyondHellValleySky, and A flaming ball of light blazes After Bowser splashes into is destroyed in a final Luma- where they are is called “Be- against the galactic sky while the lava below, the lava-cored sounding scream. I bow my yondHellValley.”) blue flags with the silver heads planet trembles. Luigi gaps, head; Rosalina entrusted Luigi What are the Heck Valley Sky of Bowser imprinted on them just managing to keep his bal- - and me - with his care, and Trees? In Shiverburn Galaxy, billow in the wind. “Looking ance without having to thrash now he’s gone and sacrificed and part of the final Grand- for Princess Peach? Too bad! his arms. The Grand Star ap- himself to save his friend, his master Galaxy, are four fig- ‘Cause she’s with me!” She pears as he watches in open- mother, the galaxies, and the ures leering at the player from gasps, then screams, “Luigi!” mouthed silence. He grabs the entire universe as a whole. As a canyon, and the player can before Bowser Jr. takes his air- Grand Star, and while flying I look up, I swallow down the only see three, since the fourth ship to soar lazily behind his with the Grand Star’s power, lump lodged in my throat after is obscured by the canyon. The father. While he runs on the Luigi saves Peach, who fell off seeing Luma’s sacrifice. first two (one small one and green-and-white tile under- Bowser Jr.’s airship. “Luigi!” she Luigi floats in a swirl of green, one tall) are on the left, and the foot, Bowser Jr. fires meteors at calls when he grabbed her, then blue, and white light as baby third, another tall, is seemingly him; there’s a 1-UP Mushroom the two fly off to her castle. stars cry in the near distance. standing all by itself. and a mushroom have six HP Meanwhile, a planet full of Rosalina appears to tell him The only origin I can get is January 2021 60 CHARGING CORNER LUIGI’S REHASHED GALACTIC JOURNEY IN SUPER LUIGI GALAXY 3D ALL STARS EDITION CONT’D what they’re called, and the Stars. However, I want these Mario Galaxy 2, it seems to be ish in thinking removing them area they’re at, but no one has two to talk about what they Nintendo didn’t want a cycle of might solve it? found out, or tried to think of, think is an origin, or as close to life to repeat itself, but not in However, Nintendo would an actual origin of why they are one, for how these things were the same way, and I’m talking know removing or keeping there. Did they come from a thought of, since they seem to about the life of rumors. What them would only restart the different game, a game in the be too purposely made to be would have happened if Nin- rumors, but most likely worse. works around 2010, or some done in a rush, even if adding tendo added the second game Is that why Nintendo “forgot” kind of spooky Easter egg from them was just that. in All-Stars, but either had the second game, as the ru- a scary game from before 2010? There’s one thing I forgot to kept - or dare I say it - removed mors would be giving more Not until July 7, 2019, where mention about the taller ones, the Sky Trees? fuel to ignite the steadily dying two SwankyBox and if someone didn’t know about If they kept them, then the embers of the Sky Trees? But it abitfrank (with her collabing them: The taller ones have rumors would circulate again, can’t be a prank, since they’re in on SwankyBox’s channel), at- arms, while the shorter ones but most likely be even worse, the Shiverburn and Grandmas- tempted. Even though many don’t. Me thinking it could be since Nintendo kept them ter Galaxies, unless the canyon have tried with flying hacks an Easter egg, could be what to please people, to keep the at the final galaxy of the second to get Mario or Luigi close to these Heck Valley Sky Trees theories flowing forevermore, game is also called what’s the them, to get a sense of scale of are, but not in the usually Eas- or because they didn’t know canyon’s name. Then, does that how big they are, no one could ter egg fashion. As abitfrank about them - or maybe they mean the area where the player because some kind of invisible states in the video, “Something knew, and wanted to play cat is at the general location of the barrier that cannot be broken to note about the figures on the and mouse with the gaming Sky Trees called Heck Valley, or through, until these YouTu- cliffside is the ones with arms community about the Heck is the entire whole of Shiver- bers found out with different strongly resemble EHL, or Ehl, Valley Sky Trees? If they re- burn secretly known as Heck means. from Luigi’s Mansion. This was moved them people would Valley, since the Sky Trees are With a T-posed Mario, an unused, or beta boss, from continue the flow of rumors at Beyond Heck Valley? SwankyBox lined up the sky Luigi’s Mansion that had long since they would have been re- The most frustrating bit is box with a 3D viewer, which arms and a stringy torso. moved. Was it a simple prank what Nintendo would have is as close as he’s going to get, “When viewed from below, Nintendo didn’t notice in their done to the Sky Trees if Su- since the Heck Valley Sky Trees the holes in the figure itself staff at the time, or was it pur- per Mario Galaxy 2 had been will return to their original lo- seem to line up with the two posely placed last minute, with added to 3D All-Stars. All we cations if simply repositioning eyeholes we see in Mario Gal- their resolve of not confirming gamers, journalists, and theo- the sky box in the game; he axy 2. Since we’re viewing it or denying because they forgot rists can do is speculate about explained what he did is te- from down below, this rotation about it, which is unlikely, or them, since Nintendo isn’t let- dious. With the 3D view being would be accurate in terms of they want it to be kept forever ting anything slip, let alone the scale about the same as it what we see, but it’s still a bit in creepypasta territory from downright telling us. is in the game, he positioned out there, and highly unlikely the aura of mystery and their them beside Mario, still T- there’s any connection.” I have unknown origin Nintendo re- posing. There, he discovered to give her an A for the ef- fuses to reveal? Or would it the smaller ones are about 30 fect of finding out about Ehl, be they wanted to stop the ru- times Mario’s size, and for the and thinking outside the box, mors, and they could be fool- bigger ones, he said, “The big- which, considering I could find gest of all of them is at least 100 no information Nintendo con- times the height of Mario, if firms or denies the Sky Trees not more.” exist, unless they knew, or they He added, “Whoever made were taking Rosalina’s talk at these quote-unquote Sky Trees the end of the game, right after seemed to make them in a Luma died to save the universe, rush, as on their texture, there’s seriously. a single roll of pixels at the very “And so the cycle of life con- top that can be seen. Obvi- tinues. But the cycle never re- ously, when viewing this on peats itself quite the same way . console, it’s not crisp enough . .” At first, I found it a cool Lion to notice.” His words made me King reference, until she said wonder what would have hap- that the cycle never repeats the pened if Super Mario Galaxy same way again. Looking back, 2 had been added to 3D All- with the knowledge people say Nintendo “forgot” about Super 61 January 2021 CHARGING CORNER TESTING OUT TWO LEVELS TO SEE IF TERRIBLE Are these two levels really that bad in 3D All-Stars: Super Mario Sunshine? By Katie Stafford Staff Reporter I’ve been told for years that the sand bird level in Super Mario Sunshine is terrible, but there are two levels rumored to be worse. Those two levels are the pachinko machine, and a level where Mario travels on a crum- bling lilypad through lethal waters to collect eight red coins (the former level is a red-coin level, also). While I was waiting for a boat to take Mario and to one of the levels I wanted to tackle, I found another level; it’s some kind of slide that I beat after one death. That sliding level was fun, but what wasn’t fun pened there? I was meant to jump having been performed. ous water, and get the needed was leaping from boat to boat jump until locating Yoshi, then The sewer system was the rea- red coins. When I performed to get to one of the infamous spin jump with both of them son to get me back in-bounds. the glitch myself, I was able levels of the game. I was fol- to have them underwater, un- “Yes! I got it!” I cry out in de- to ride the lilypad and pass lowing Gaming Reinvented’s harmed and unfazed. light. On my seventh try, the through the bars, but the dead video on how to get to the lily- Second try: Turbo-Nozzled glitch worked, but with Yoshi’s void is very finicky, and death pad level with the dangerous through the crate and jump- stomach empty of juice, he was still possible. waters. He showed how to do ing to avoid death, Mario lo- despawned, leaving Mario out- Normally, I wouldn’t quit af- a glitch for an easier solution cated Yoshi. Yoshi, when the of-bounds, all on his own. One ter the first game over.It took versus leaping from boat to jump is on the cusp of being spin jump returned Mario back me ten tries to successfully do boat and risking Yoshi’s demise performed, dies, killing Mario in-bounds. I never fully appre- a reasonably easy glitch. Mario with each jump. as well. My intrigue with the ciated that saying, “So close, has no control over the lilypad First, Yoshi had to be un- glitch is keeping any deaths yet so far,” until the moment because of how strong the cur- hatched from his egg with a from angering me. My third Yoshi despawned, and left Ma- rent was, and I kept on falling certain fruit, and once that was and fourth try didn’t go so well, rio, alone, out-of-bounds. off the narrow sides of the poi- done, I had to spin jump with as Yoshi didn’t want to glitch Eighth try: I died while try- sonous water when I decided to Yoshi near the Shine Gate and through the floor, and it took ing to get both underwater, do it with only the Hover Noz- dismount once both plumber more than three tries before thinking I could travel to the zle (ignoring the finicky glitch and dino were in the air, and he did. Once Mario was out of needed island. Hold on, that entirely). Even the intended Yoshi, if done correctly, should bounds he couldn’t find Yoshi might work. Why not try to do way of getting to the level by be not be seen on screen. I was after ten minutes (my third it that way? My next try, how- traveling on boats through the surprised to see that part of the try), or he was jumping to his ever, resulted in Yoshi and Ma- harbor with Mario and Yoshi glitch worked, especially on my loyal steed when he returned rio dying since I was too slow had me quit after one game first try. in-bounds through a sewer sys- having them jump. I thought I over. There was no way I’ll re- With Yoshi out of bounds, tem. Not only did I have to do glitched back in-bounds on my play that level, let alone try to Mario was next. Near Noki this glitch without dying, but tenth try, but I didn’t. I was out- beat it. I spent an hour trying Bay’s manhole cover with light Mario can actually go back in- of-bounds, the water unfaz- to get to said level, and a good pouring on it is a white pier, bounds. ing both Yoshi and Mario, and half hour before that game was and at the end of said pier is My fifth try showed the dan- I made it to the pipe that was over. a wooden crate. Mario, need- gers of returning in-bounds. soon cleaned by Yoshi! All that I decided to explore the plaza ing to have the Turbo Nozzle, I was able to grab Yoshi, spin work to get to one of two most before finding that other - lev has to get under the pier, where jumped, and both of them re- infamous levels. Luckily, the el, and noticed a hole under the crate is, and then he has turned back in-bounds by the same YouTuber, Gaming Rein- a bridge. It took awhile to get to Turbo-Nozzle into the crate means of a sewer system. These vented, showed a glitch to do through it, and it brought me him through the sewer systems turned into my this level: Ride the lilypad until to the pachinko machine level. crate. Walk to the side facing worst enemy at this point. the player is at the end, jump Mario acted as the ball for the the buildings, and then fall My sixth try was the same as off, Hover Nozzle through the level, and even the level is nice into a death void. What hap- my fifth, but without the spin bars to be safe from the poison- enough to place three out of January 2021 62 CHARGING CORNER TESTING OUT TWO LEVELS TO SEE IF TERRIBLE the eight red coins at the start, where the boost panel is. The boost panel shoots Mario into the air like a cork. He can use the Hover Nozzle to move around, but for some reason he barely moves at all. To make matters worse one of the red coins is below Mario when he leaves the boost panel, and that one coin showed no mercy at all. It took me three tries to even grab the red coin the first time, and that was only due to Mario, on one of these green poles he ironically can’t grab to swing to and fro, did a very tight - and I mean tight - spin jump. Once he used the Hov- the slide. It’s possible, and the thumb feeling normal, and wouldn’t say no to that catchy er Nozzle, if the game hadn’t clicking sound of a single but- my wrist still aching anytime I soundtrack of the iconic theme pushed him up the ledge to ton being mashed (in this case moved it, I beat it. Once gath- playing, like in the levels with- the troublesome red coin, I the Y button) has gone from ering all eight red coins, which out FLUDD while Mario par- wouldn’t have snatched it. music to my ears to grating like included that merciless red kours, to make these levels a Why not Hover Nozzle to nails on a chalkboard. Nearly coin after the boost panel, the little more interesting to play. that red coin then? Because twenty minutes later, in which Shine Sprite then spawned in (Stay tuned! Ssince there’s a it is that hard. Mario is being I learned I can ground pound, this large blue slot. It wasn’t deadline of Super Mario 3D shot into the air so fast, the meaning I can get my bearings hard to grab, since I was able All-Stars, I’ll most likely re- player doesn’t gain full control a little, I gave up. I wasn’t just to control Mario in this level turn to my review of Mario 64 until he’s past it, and since he climbing the slide; there’s a red much better than before. in it’s All-Stars edition to beat doesn’t seem to be moving very coin that was in reach. A corner However, during one of my six Bowser, and see Mario receive fast as he hovers, there’s the of the slot that would spit out tries to beat it, Mario glitched. his well-deserved cake, too!) risk the gamer has Mario spat Mario was touching the slide. I I thought he would fall to his out the blue slot, or lead to a was able to get in the slot every death, meaning I would have lower coin, or the narrow open- now and then, but he bonked to start all over, but he entered Did you know? ing at the bottom, which has a his head, resulting in him slid- one of the purple slots, in his death void claiming Mario if he According to the ing out and down, meaning sitting animation, not moving. falls that far. another ten to fifteen seconds Once I pressed the Y button to There is a way to fight being Entertainment of agony trying to get Mario in dive, he got out, unstuck. spat out the machine to slide, the position to attempt push- Are these two levels the Software As- stopping at the boost panel or ing him through. worst? The lilypad level yes, outside. However, it isn’t the I needed a break; my wrist with how much time and effect sociation (ESA) player’s ability to mash but- and thumb were hurting. If I it takes to even get to the level tons and skill; it’s all decided didn’t get all red coins (and the (intended or using a glitch). there are over 164 through the game having mer- closest I got was seven out of The pachinko machine is ac- cy and sheer dumb luck. Soon million adults in eight), I can say this is a fun, in- tually fun, but frustrating. The I got my first game over, but I teresting level that’s only flaw latter level is creative, but the was determined to beat this. the US who play is the boost panel shoots Ma- fact that nine out of ten times While the lilypad one was re- rio too fast for the player to get the player will even get that video games,and ally hard to reach to even start his or her bearings to get that one red coin near the begin- the nightmare that was that one red coin. The others are a ning and Mario seems to move 75% of all house- level, this one wasn’t too bad to lot easier than that one coin. slowly when using the Hover get to, and it isn’t too bad. Though don’t get me wrong: Nozzle makes this level a little holds have a My thumb felt like it was on The player needs to plan out irritating. However, it’s so re- fire while my wrist seized up gamer in their how to move Mario around to warding to collect the Shine from a cramp. For about ten get all the coins. Sprite, and that just barely minutes or more I tried to climb household. Several hours later, with my makes it tolerable to play. I 63 January 2021 CHARGING CORNER IMMORTALS FENYX RISING REVIEW This is Part 1 of an action adventure video game released December 3, 2020 and put out by Ubisoft. This game can be played on the Nintendo Switch, Playstation 4 and 5, Xbox and other platforms. Can Demigod Fenyx’s Quest Stop Typhon’s Dark Curse From Greek Gods’ Home? By Katie Stafford Staff Reporter game on Christmas, it is like My heart pounding, I put the being shown the place where game in my Nintendo Switch. I I’ll be tossed into the water notice on the game case a bo- during a storm; it doesn’t ex- nus quest - A Tale of Fire and actly soothe my fears, but at Lightning - can be added; flip- least I can see how potentially ping the case open again, I see deadly that bottomless water the 16-character code and the is. I’m going even more blind instructions on how to activate than I did with Origami King. the bonus quest. Exhaling a deep, shaky breath, I hesitate to touch my JoyCons I press the button to start the lying beside me, let alone press game. The game checks for ad- the A button to leave the title ditional content, but I decided screen for Immortal Fenyx Ris- to do A Tale of Fire and Light- ing. Other than knowing its re- ning at what I see as the mid- lease date of December 3, 2020, way point of the journey, at the I know nothing of this develop- very end of the journey, one or ment team and game. the other. However, that bonus The devs are Ubisoft, and it’s a quest will be explored some- T-rated game, T for teen. I have time during this article. only truly played one T-rated The game gives me a chance game: Super Smash Bros. Brawl to play with my needed set- for the Wii, about a year after tings. After putting the bright- the 2008 game was released. ness on high, and seeing where The only Ubisoft games I’ve I wanted my filter, I see the played were a few games from game’s settings can allow those the Raving Rabbids series. In colorblind to enjoy the game as that series a character named well, since it can enhance the Rayman stops the aliens (aka hues of red, blue, and/or green the Rabbids) from taking over to those colorblind in those envy, how they cheat and mur- Zeus, who out of love, chained Earth, and this plot is some- areas. As I’m not colorblind, I der, and how he doesn’t share him to a rock and fed his liver what smothered by the silly do not need to use it, but it’s a any of those flaws. However, to an eagle. Did I forget to men- minigames the gamer plays. good feature nonetheless. he did just quiet a goddess tion he did that out of love? I have played Nintendo my There are different game screaming for help in his dark Prometheus’ eyes glow or- whole life; I’m not so confident difficulties: Story, Easy, - Nor cavern a moment prior, but he ange. He lowers his head in knowing the story beats of mal, Hard, and even a locked did say the immortals are the against his snow-encrusted this game. Nightmare mode. I decided victims and are to blame. And beard, then looks up, saying A good way to explain going to do Normal, since this is the why did he quiet a goddess in Zeus came to receive his help, through this review is seeing intended difficulty level for front of the player? Answer: as Typhon is free. I guess his me in a shallow pool of water, the game. The Enemy Diffi- The goddess supposedly “killed god power is mind reading where I can barely touch the culty, Stamina Regeneration, six innoncent children to satis- or looking into the past. Zeus floor; it’s frightening at the Fall Damage (but with a slow fy her rage.” points out he once convinced start, but since I know Ninten- fall while gliding), and Myth By now, I’m barely following Typhon to stand down with do games, I can at least know Challenge Assistance is at De- along, even when Typhon ex- the help of fighting beside his what I can expect. For Immor- fault (the final one with a De- plains everyone else has fallen, allies, the Titans. “It’s not that tal Fenyx Rising, it’s much scar- fault Timer and no assistance); but only one remains in his way simple. He’s even blocking my ier than Nintendo games, even meanwhile, my Health Re- to the rehabilitation of Olym- ability to glimpse into the fu- when I went blind into them, generation is at “Only current pus. He then describes the ture. I cannot see past him,” like I did with Paper Mario: The chunk”. I can change the set- god who stops him, but then it Prometheus explains to Zeus. Origami King. tings later, if need be. shifts to Prometheus chained Zeus steps closer, his hand Although I saw the deep dive A scary-looking god, Typhon, to a gray boulder on a moun- blazing with crackling yellow for Immortal Fenyx Rising speaks about how many Greek taintop while a blizzard storms lightning. Prometheus tells about a week before I got the gods are weak by burning with around him. As he calls out to him to do it, but Zues can’t, and January 2021 64 CHARGING CORNER IMMORTALS FENYX RISING REVIEW not because of kindness, but pearance, Zeus interrupts, this even more careful, I scaled to I see something that looks like because his lightning has been time making fun of her name: the top of the head, where Fe- wings, and as she approaches taken away. Even the other “What a name. Feeee-nix. nyx sees the Temple of Apollo, it, Prometheus tells the player gods are missing. Prometheus Sounds like a dumb bird makes which might have an Oracle or and Zeus that it looks like it’s tells him to “look to the mor- when it lights itself on fire. a Seer to help her stop the curse. both broken and manmade. To tals.” Which would be ridiculous . . .” A griffin holding a stranger ap- my and Fenyx’s surprise, the My mystified silence of trying Coughing, Fenyx wakes up, pears suddenly, and now Fenyx wings work; they give her an to follow along with the story and calls for anyone to come to must help him. The mission is added height in her jump. The is broken when I snap, “Hey! her. She stares at a rocky cliff called Life and Death. axe is near a temple doorway. We’re not!” when Zeus answers face while some kind of light While water murmurs, Fenyx When she lifts her new Axe of Prometheus: “That’s done. blazes from on the other side. climbs up rocks and destroys Atalanta, Zeus wonders if he Those evil, imbecilic, tasteless She tells me to climb the cliff, ships in order to reach the lo- turned Atalanta into a lion, as parasites were all turned to and I’m given an objective of cation to continue the game. it was now getting hard to keep stone.” However, Prometheus doing just that. I can’t jump, She sees an axe that looks a lot track because he turns people tells him one of those “para- but I can climb, but it’s on a like the Axe of Atalanta - and into a lot of things, then he says sites” were going to save his meter before she starts to slide it calls to her, by what Pro- he has to stop drinking, more royal butt. He explains that his back down. Thankfully, there metheus tells me. But a terrible to himself than anyone. behind is safe at the Augean are ledges to give her time to force pulls the axe away from A battle commences, and Stables, while he views us mor- rest before the next climb. her. this one teaches me how to tals as a mistake, and nothing She sees everyone on the ship I chuckle when Typhon asks, parry with the axe - using the but. was turned to stone when she “Who knocks upon my door?” L and Y buttons together, or Prometheus, seeing his pun- gets close to a location that and Fenyx’s answer is: “No so it seems. Near the crackling ishment as a little extreme, looked like it was meant for one.” Typhon tells her that yellow-white bolts of light- asks for a wager: If Zeus wins, anyone to rest. By the way the trick wasn’t going to work on ning, Zeus tells the player and Prometheus has to help him lovely narrator speaks about him; it would be a little better Prometheus only he can wield stop Typhon, but if Pro- her, it makes it sound like she’s if she didn’t say anything to see his lightning, no one else. The metheus wins, he’ll be set free. overshadowed by her more if he wonders if anyone was lightning is too much for Fenyx “Very well. Let the tale of Fenyx experienced-in-battle brother. there or continues, knowing to bear; however, not only does be my redemption,” he agrees. “Well, you didn’t need to tell someone’s there. He tells her to she live, and to Zues’ dismay The tale of Fenyx starts with a me that,” I say when Promtheus enter. Once I enter the mount and disbelief, her wings are im- ship of warriors returning after tells me she’s vulnerable with of earth showing darkness to mune to storms. a far-away battle they seemed being lost and weaponless. swallow Fenyx up, Zeus tells Fenyx leaps into the galactic to have won when they’re Before she gets the Sword of Prometheus he’s a good story- sky, leaving this strange place ambushed by storm-tossed Achilles, she gasps and spots teller, but it’s time for him to behind. She spots the person waters. While the player can her brother, Ligyron. Crying, help him. Prometheus explains crying for help, then the griffin see the visuals of how he’s de- she tells him, “You’ve always that isn’t the end of the story, flies away. The new mission is scribing it, Zeus seems unable been my hero. My north star. “not by a long shot.” This con- a Golden Opportunity, which to. He tells Prometheus he’s I will bring you back. I swear versation is made even funnier means while I can get to the painting a wonderful picture it.” She stands and removes the because some credits roll. Temple of Apollo, I have to save of the horrors these warriors sword from the rock. Above her head is a blue-and- the stranger first. Thank you so have to face out at sea. Long I’m forced into battle against purple star-flecked galactic sky very much, random stranger I story short, few survive as the these dark soldiers. I can fight while Fenyx goes through this happen to not want to save, for boat is destroyed. On a beach by pressing the R button and part of the story. It’s strange, stopping me like that. But the with water reaching for her dodge with Y, but I find going like both listener and storytell- wings are still broken, so it’s a feet, Prometheus explains one from one enemy to the next er agree. The first “section” is double jump. Traveling past of the survivors was a shield- works wonders. I now have to just a lot of jumping. Soon after the golden grass, murmur- bearer, who yearns for a true survey the land, and I have to entering, Typhon asks if she’s ing water refracting the flam- taste of battle, as she’s the low- climb on top of this large statue either brave or foolish to con- ing ball of white sunlight, the est rank on the ship. I can play of Hermes. I learned I do have tinue. I swallow nervously, re- many rocky cliffs, and facing around with Fenyx’s looks by a jump button - it’s B. alizing I didn’t care what hap- these boar-like enemies isn’t now, since Zeus interrupted. “Oh, no! That’s a lot of dam- pened to Fenyx, but I was going the issue. The issue is that I I give her a battle scar across age taken!” I cry out in horror. to defeat this Typhon. The next have no idea where that darn her face and make her eyes a I was able to climb on top, and part took a little while, but all it griffin and stranger went. I beautiful golden color. With get this item - Ambrosia - that does is activate levers to reveal soon learn how to sprint in the seeing the unconscious Fenyx increased my health, but I fell platforms, some that rise and game; a simple press of the Y up close for the first time since off, seeing I must have needed then remain stationary, and button while moving does it, I played around with her ap- to get on top of the head. Being some that move. but it depletes stamina faster 65 January 2021 CHARGING CORNER IMMORTALS FENYX RISING REVIEW than normal, so I’ll have to be The stranger runs away from down to each one, and climb wall, which wasn’t easy. wary of that. her. He flees from a battle she onto the other side. I finally did the box-puzzle. I Six hours later, I somehow stops, as she explains they My idea didn’t go as planned. found getting to the little box stumbled across the next should pick on someone with Ubisoft made sure I did the harder than leaving the plat- cutscene, which is a good sign. a weapon. There’s another gor- puzzle without even trying form. I must have gotten lucky Fenyx crouches behind a rock, gon, and the first enemies I en- to cheese it. First, I tried the with being able to skip the staring at a large, plump, ugly countered, which I decided to closest platform without the puzzle, since after a few hours creature with horns look- call Typhon’s warriors, as they wings, and I died; I did the of tries, I couldn’t skip that ing like it’s eating something. wield swords and shields. The same thing, but used the wings puzzle, so I did it after twenty “What in the world are you?” fight wasn’t too hard, but I did to avoid fall damage . . . and I minutes. I was back where I I breathe as Fenyx says, “A . . . move from foe to foe more of- died. So, I did the second, far- had the problem. I tried every- gorgon?! They’re real.” ten, with three of them after thest platform, and died with thing, and died a few times, but “Oh, hi, gorgon,” I said, as Fe- Fenyx’s blood. or without using the wings to with the first puzzle cleared, I nyx wonders what’s glistening. She halts at a cliff, overlook- dodge any fall damage. Looks didn’t have to do it again. I gave The gorgon burps, green bub- ing a turtle-shaped island, with like a death void was placed up trying to climb the crum- bles expelling from its mouth the sunlight bleeding into the there, in case any gamer had bling wall, so I stared at the that pop. She asks if she sneak- water. I looked around the isle other ideas about this puzzle. screen for a good hour, trying ing up on it would do, then I a bit, saw a box, and pushed I wondered if it was possible to think of a solution. gain control. Instead of press- it onto a tile with a feather to avoid the puzzle by leap- I was on YouTube, halfway ing the A button to crouch, imprinted on it. The turtle’s ing over the gap. On my first through posting the question I had decided to charge at it. mouth opened halfway, and attempt, after a quick sprint of how to get past that part of Using both my new axe and once I swiftly climbed on top of and a wing-jump, Fenyx al- Odysseus’s Struggle, I noticed sword, I’m able to defeat it with the turtle’s shell, I found a large most made it. It seemed likely something at the lower right- relative ease. She notices some boulder, which I carried to the I could cheese this puzzle af- hand side of the screen telling kind of bracers that she’s seen other tile. The mouth opened ter all. On my third try, Fenyx me to press the L button; I obey, before in drawings. As Pro- to swallow Fenyx whole, or grabbed the ledge and heaved and the box’s outline glowed. metheus states, those bracers that’s what I thought, and the herself up, when I thought I It flew to Fenyx. I pushed the were once worn by Herakles feeling of the turtle gulping her had to let go of the ledge, and box until Fenyx could grab (the subtitles spell it Herak- down only intensifies when an- do an almost-immediate wing- the ledge to pull herself up. les, not Heracles) during his other mound of earth was there jump. I never felt that good - it The last bit was easy; since 12 labors sentenced by Hera. with its yawning darkness. was better than doing a death- the game teaches me about a Now they belonged to Fenyx. “Odysseus’s Struggle,” I read; less run of Luigi’s Mansion 3. I charged throw (pressing the “Through dumb luck,” Zeus in- I have to collect the Bow. To found a way to skip a puzzle in ZR button) to toss both boxes terjects. get to the Bow, which I guess a game for the first time ever! onto the tiles. When Zeus comments about is Hermes’ Bow, is to move ob- I know some readers must be “Do I need arrows?” I ques- it being Heracles instead of jects to the tiles to reveal plat- rolling their eyes for something tion, seeing Fenyx take the Bow Herakles, the chained god ex- forms. this stupid, but I never cheesed of Odysseus. Typhon then tells plains that’s how to pronounce The first is super easy, since anything in a game, and espe- her wielding power doesn’t just it. Zeus remarks it’s his funeral; it’s just pushing it onto the tile. cially not like that. mean “deft footwork” (she’d however, he is reminded by The second is over on the side, The next part has a box too perform a graceful backflip Prometheus he can’t die. I’m with an abyss separating it from high to grab, and even sprint- once she snatches the bow); he wondering, while seeing Fenyx easy access. I either missed the ing and then wing-jumping wants to see if she has control can now grab large rocks with leap over, or I got it, but fell off had me narrowly miss snatch- with it. She demands, with a the bracers on, if the story is soon after landing on the box, ing the ledge. I noticed the trace of fear in her voice, for being told completely in the and trying to get off it to grab crumbling wall at the edge of him to show himself. I then get past, or partly so. It could be it. Worry and fear flooded me, the landing. I decided to leap Apollo’s Arrows - six, to be ex- the story is being told some- realizing I might be able to on top of the wall, then get over act. To pull back the bowstring, time after it happened, and the heave the box over the other to the next landing; however, it the player presses the ZL but- player is playing the tale. Or, side, but then how in the world was really finicky about Fenyx ton, and taps the ZR button to more likely, only the shipwreck would I get Fenyx back over getting on top off the wall, and loose the arrow; I can even gain was in the past, and while the there, without falling into the the moment I got on, I realized a whole lot of control where player is traveling this sandbox chasm? So, I did the next logi- I had to do it successfully an- the arrow will land, by pressing game, Prometheus is seeing cal thing I could think of: Push other two or three times. I fell the L button right after the ar- everything Fenyx does, and ex- the first box over to the tile, off. I had to ledge-grab past the row’s released. plaining it to Zues, and maybe then stand on the other to see death void before I could do “Keep that steady hand, Lit- Fenyx meets up with both gods platforms rise up, studying the round two of walking and leap- tle One, and you might just on that snowy mountain top? gauge and judging how I’ll leap ing on top of the crumbling survive,” Typhon says after he January 2021 66 CHARGING CORNER IMMORTALS FENYX RISING REVIEW laughs, once the puzzle teaches with yellow-orange flames lick- herald’s aid, go on to the attack, she’s somewhat distracted by me how to use the bow and ar- ing at the air. A tile is near it, and sooner than later, change asking what he meant earlier. I rows. To get out, it’s just using a and Fenyx has to release arrows them all back. A pearl in rough see a large block needed to be combination of what I learned at the unlit torch, which will no seas, forge fires lit, a wise child pushed on a tile; I do so, and here by snapping a chain hold- longer be red with her standing convinced, a feather’s weight then leap into the hole without ing a block with the Bow of Od- on the tile. of wit. Eldest of Thetis, Father hesitation. ysseus, then pushing the two Past the now glassless thresh- overthrown. Hero on high, it’s The first puzzle is pushing broken halves onto the tiles. old, Fenyx strolls over to a time for you to come home.” boxes onto the tiles to raise Ready for the crackling light- robed old man with a gray She comments on that be- platforms, and the second puz- ning this time, she extends her beard. I see he’s the Oracle, not ing a real prophecy; however, zle with the same gimmick had hand and takes it better than the thief. The Oracle doesn’t the Oracle explained a proph- me think outside of the box a before. I noticed her wings know how to answer her ques- ecy usually ends with “I see,” little. (Ha! Get it?) To activate seemed to be mending with tion of how to stop the curse and this one didn’t. She spot- the tile, four lights at the sides each new bolt of lightning. plaguing the land, and because ted the thief who came over, have to be glowing; the first box Prometheus explains Fenyx, he doesn’t know, she asks a and tossed her bracers back, worked, and the wooden crate ready for anything with her simpler question he doesn’t explaining she’ll be needing only allowed up to two lights to godly weapons, heads off to the know how to answer either: them where she’s going. He blaze to life. What did I do to Temple of Apollo. Her height How to get her Herakles brac- apologized by telling her it’s light up the other two? Answer: with her wings seemed to have ers back. I went from sympa- a problem of his, and asked if The first puzzle has a small, increased. After a simple fight thetic to outright sharing her she’s good with him now. heavy crate, so I had her rush outside the stone structure, frustration when this “Oracle’’ “Not even remotely,” she said, to the smaller box, which made we met the person captured rambled about how sand was crossing her arms over her the lowering platforms unus- by that griffin, then fled from called sand, as he wonders if breasts. The thief explained he able thanks to the death void. battle, and who stole Fenyx’s the word “sand” was describ- needed an offering for the Or- But a simple charged throw got bracers, even after she tells ing the place between sea and acle, so thinking she was a no- the box on the landing with the this golden-haired stranger her land. The issue is this Oracle is body, and the fact he didn’t like next puzzle. name, in an attempt to appear an old man who knows noth- her face, stole from her, but he Now a little nervous of what less threatening if she tells him ing, and can only haftheartedly adds, “But that’s all behind us would happen if Fenyx re- her name. conceal that by asking some now. We have to go.” He walked spawned, I had her sprint then Pointing out she saved him very stupid questions without away, and before following him do a wing-jump towards the (looking like she knows she’s any cohereancy behind Fenyx’s she’s a little surprised at the second puzzle, and she died. only talking to thin air by now), questions. It doesn’t help mat- added comment about him Expecting the box to have she raced inside. Zeus inter- ters that he laughed when she not liking her face, and then despawned off the higher land- rupts again to explain that’s told him she would be going sighs in defeat, shadowing the ing, or her to have spawned be- how mortals are: The immor- twice. He stops laughing to ask strange thief. low the second puzzle, I was tals do something for them, if she’s an Oracle. “What other piece? I knew amazed when she spawned then get betrayed by them. She walked away, and with her wings were broken, but on the higher platform, with Zeus, no one said immortality her back turned, the Oracle’s they didn’t look like a part was the crate near the tile. After, was going to be all rainbows eyes glowed orange. I gasp missing,” I add when Fenyx it was pushing it onto the tile, and unicorns, so why complain softly, my finger prepared to asks, “What do you mean, fly?” then getting down the first like that’s the first time it’s hap- rush at him with some swift The thief told us we didn’t have puzzle, respawn the boxes, do pened?. blows from either my axe or much time, but he had the tick- a charged throw, unceremoni- The golden doors are closed sword, whichever comes out et to get us to the mainland. He ously die, and push the third behind her. Red stone walls first, thinking he’ll either turn asked where the wings were, box onto the tile. stretch towards the high ceil- into a terrifying beast or some and when Fenyx showed him The platforms rise; I didn’t ing. A red glass wall keeps Fe- monster will explode out of her wings, he told her not to be know if what I did was in- nyx from confronting the thief. his body, presumably from his smug, as they won’t fly without tended, but I somehow doubt Three out of the four torches gaping mouth. I swallowed the missing piece. Ubisoft expected a player to do allow bluish-white flames to nervously when Fenyx turned While he finishes the prepa- what I did. A quick fight with claw at the air, while two torch- towards him. The Oracle rations on top of the Observa- two gorgon proceeds, then a es guard each side of the glass; stated: “Father of your kin, a tory, Fenyx needed to get the few more puzzles with Herak- meanwhile, only one isn’t just mountain, crowned, with flow- stolen jar from Aiolos. Because les bracers; the only new thing unlit, but it’s red with a red ing locks is how you win. The she doesn’t understand, he is using the bracers to move lock in front of it. I notice, as monster shambles, hungry for tells her bluntly she is in grave massive balls to a dip to activate Zeus wonders if a magician or a immortal flaws. The true hero danger, as he’s helping her after the platforms. After opening a circus performer made the tall, owes them all, stolen from the she helped him, then rushes door with a lever, Prometheus majestic temple, another torch beast’s jaws. With the winged off to the Observatory while explains she was thinking what 67 January 2021 CHARGING CORNER IMMORTALS FENYX RISING REVIEW happened to her parents, if blocked by red glass. A sphere large, dark god with tentacles phon remaking the world.” She they were stone as well, but is in a dip where many hollows on his right hand, and what says the prophecy might not Zeus interrupts by saying that are; nearby is a map, showing seems to be claws on his other. be about her at all. The thief was boring, as she took in each hole, but some are col- Reddish fire blazes across him lectures her that, while she’s the monster - a large cyclops. ored blue. Looks like I have to at places, like his featherless helping everyone, she needs Though it’s racing for her, Zeus find more balls. wings. He seemed to be wear- to accept help. She demands says she laughed at the face of The red-stoned temple is at ing chains flaming with red to know what he’s even talking the danger. Prometheus, not the edge of a cliff where a rock light. His chest was bedecked about. going down without a fight, is topped with golden grass with red stones that glowed. “Fates alive! How is the says it was an adorable, play- swaying in the wind. The win- The thief tells Typhon they - winged herald supposed to ful monster, now smaller than dows are golden, and finding him and Fenyx - will stop him. provide aid when you won’t let Fenyx. The monster skips away all the sphere’s wasn’t too hard, He laughs, then says, “We? me,” the thief says. Something from her before it magically re- since I just wandered and awed There is no “we”! Not any- clicked within me and Fenyx, turns to its normal, large size. at this wonderful red temple more!” I shiver, bracing myself both of us coming to different Zeus tells Prometheus, “Ah, until I stumbled across them. I for combat. realizations. For me, who re- fine, have it your way, just don’t even learned, through the ba- The thief tells her to use the membered a herald in litera- make me vomit.” sic puzzles of using the brac- jar. She tries, but it’s too much ture is typically the character to The battle of my first boss - ers, that I can press the - but- for her. The thief tells her to announce either an important or mini-boss - went fairly well. ton to see my inventory, and it open her wings, and being un- event and/or inciting incident It involved a lot of blows with looks like I can customize my able to, the thief does it for her. towards the protagonist, this my axe and sword, but anytime still-broken wings. I found the Typhon is sent flying into the golden-haired thief has know- the cyclops was too dizzy to at- final two to get a little annoy- pale volcano expelling molten ingly - or unknowingly - tossed tack that became my time to ing, since they were so close to lava, blazing behind the god. Fenyx and I into the complete have Fenyx gulp down some one another. I took them down While the sky brightens again, unknown. For Fenyx, she real- food to heal for the next flurry together after carrying one for she asks what that thing was. izes the thief is another god of attacks. I did notice each a while, I ran back for the other. The thief then tells her it was - Hermes, who likes “telling time the cyclops attacked me, I With the puzzle complete, Typhon, and she’s in disbelief half-truths, playing tricks, and winced, stifling the hiss of pain Fenyx notices the wings be- she met the actual Typhon. taking long runs on the beach.” wanting to escape me; I could long to Daidalos, but not be- The thief explains they’ll talk, He asks her if they can go, feel the heavy hand slamming fore she reads the inscription: but at the Hall of the Gods. He since the other gods need their into Fenyx. By the end of the “Welcome to the Golden Isle. asks if she’s ready to fly. Fenyx, help. Fenyx is now shocked to fight, as I traveled to the jar, I In remembrance of my great- showing them off, points out learn the gods she must have remembered telling my cousin, est success and my greatest Daidalos’ wings killed Ikaros, been told as a child are real. He Autumn, how there were times failure. May the gods accept implying a little nervousness tells her to meet him at the Hall where I could feel the protago- my offering, may I see you about flying. The thief reas- of the Gods, but not before he nist’s pain in a book, and now again, Ikaros.” As Fenyx scales sures her she’ll be fine, but she tells her she’s gaping at him. As it’s happening during my re- to the Observatory, on top of can’t fly too close to Helios, he vanishes for the Golden Isle, views. the temple, Zeus says he didn’t and she shouldn’t use the bath- Prometheus tells me and Zeus She did point out anytime I kill Ikaros, as Daidalos’ wings room during turbulence. I did she looked across the narrow, cry out in a game, I sound as killed him, when the chained a quick Google search on He- glistening blue ribbon of water. if I’m the one who is suffering god asks what happened to lios, since I’m not completely It leads over to the Golden Isle, the blow, not the character, but him. Prometheus adds, “And up-to-date on my Greek my- a lush, grassy place full of trees, thinks that it’s impossible for where is Daidalos now?” He thology; Helios is the god of some even with pink leaves, me to feel the character’s pain pauses, waiting for Zeus to re- the sun, and is said to ride a stone structures, and many as if it’s my own. ply. “I see. Silence.” golden chariot, and this means rocky cliffs rising to attempt At the jar, she comments it’s At the top, the thief asks if the thief is discouraging Fenyx to rival the Hall of the Gods impossible for the power of she has the wings and the jar; flying too close to the sun. He on the highest cliff, as so it the winds to be in the jar, as she shows him, and he tells her adds, “You should make it to seems to be. Meanwhile, Ubi- she thought the god of winds to get ready to open it. I scream the mainland without crashing soft Quebec presents Immortal would be on the jar, not inside. softly, icy fear clawing through . . . probably.” Fenyx Rising. Zeus interjects: Nonetheless, she takes after it me as the game’s protagonist She shakes her head, then “Wait. That was the prologue? glows golden, vanishing, which demands, “What is that!?” points out he robbed her, and How does it take someone I guess means she now has it. while the sky darkens as em- now he’s helping her. After she THAT long to begin the story? Once more she leaves hav- bers of reddish-white light fly asks why, the thief explains he Odysseus made it home faster.” ing been shocked with Zeus’ everywhere. didn’t follow everything the lightning. Climbing some For the first time, I’m able Oracle said, but it sounded like steps shows her the wing piece, to see Typhon properly. He’s a she was the one to “stop Ty- January 2021 68 CHARGING CORNER INTERESTED IN ONLINE COMICS? GIVE WEBTOONS A TRY By Mikah Nelson for each episode of the comic Charging Corner Editor you have downloaded. What is Webtoons? Webtoons is a free to use comic Canvas and Original Webt- app which can be downloaded oons! from the Google Play store or Canvas is the section of the app the Apple Play store. where you can read thousands of comics! Original Webtoons Does it have in-app purchas- and Canvas comics are both es? updated by whatever the art- Yes. But that’s only to buy coins ist of the comic sets the update which can be used to read to be. It could be every Tues- chapters that are not fully re- day or every other Friday. The leased to everyone. It is sort of people who make the comics like fast passes at amusement post them onto Canvas but parks. Using coins on a comic they can not be downloaded also helps support the artist. because they are not exactly official yet. Original Webtoons Download the comics! are the comics which can be The choice is given for you to downloaded. I’m sure some of download the comics onto your you while watching Youtube phone and read them without have seen ads about comics using any wifi or data! As long from Webtoons. Those comics as you have the space on your are a part of the original com- phone you can download how- ics and are on the homepage of ever many comics you wish, the Webtoons app. but there is a 30 day time limit MARIO KART Wii RAINBOW ROAD’S ULTRA SHORTCUT PROVED HUMANLY POSSIBLE By Katie Stafford www.mkwtas.com as an un- bow Road was broken with a and completes a run, will have Staff Reporter derstanding of what that is, major ultra shortcut. Visually, major bragging rights, and it According to website www. states, “TAS stands for “Tool it’s clear this ultra shortcut is will be one of the most signifi- eurogamer.net the Ultra Short- Assisted Speedrun/Superplay”. beyond precise and complex, cant accomplishments in this cut from Mario Kart Wii’s It’s basically using savestates, but nothing here is, technical- game’s history.” Rainbow Road has finally been slow-motion, and more to ly, humanly impossible. proven humanly possible, after push the game to its limits.” “You are temporarily leaving nearly 13 years since the 2008 And a savestate is essentially a and landing back on the track, game was released for the Wii. checkpoint someone can emu- riding in between the guard The site, by Tom Phillips and late in a game, even when the rail. Using your first mushroom Did you know? published on January 14, 2021, game doesn’t have said feature; to gain momentum and having According to explains, “Today, French Mario there’s more to a savestate, but a perfectly timed spin-drift to Kart fan ArthuurrrP has been that was the only way I can in- barely” - and he emphasizes Forbes.com Nin- credited with being the first tercept, since even not going that last word - “to pass the person to pull off Mario Kart into the fancy tech jargon, I out-of-bounds zone, and land tendo’s worth is Wii’s final ultra shortcut - one barely understood. on the zipper at the end of the which has been known about What is this ultra shortcut? course.” estimated at $85 for years” - the article later says A video by TWD98 (“Top 10 TWD98 finishes, “This is the its discovery was found in 2016 INHUMAN Shortcuts in Mario holy grail of Mario Kart Wii ul- million. - “but only never completed in Kart Wii” which was released tra shortcuts, and humans have tool-assisted runs.” on September 14, 2019) de- gotten close to pulling this off, And a tool-assisted run is scribes how the ultra shortcut but none have been success- basically pushing the game is performed. “Discovered by ful yet. I think the first person to its utmost limits. Using Estalvo62 back in 2016, Rain- who successfully pulls this off, 69 January 2021 ‘

Cover Credits Front Cover: Volleyball player Hunter Wright at practice Back Cober: Design by Hailey Patten

January 2021 70