BIONICLEG

Big changes are on the horizon for the world of Azeroth. Blizzard announced today (via a blue post) that they will soon allow players to change factions. Yes, I said factions. This is HUGE. I’ve been playing this game since launch and can only remember a handful of changes with this much potential impact.

I’ve never really been in the crowd requesting this change. My intial thought is that it’s fine. But we’ll have to wait and see how Blizzard ultimately implements it. I’m sure there will be a fee (probably a steep one) and some restrictions on gear, achievements, etc. But nevertheless, for those second guessing their decision, I’m sure it will be worth it. For me? TBD.

This post will be short, as I have something else I need to do.

Today is launch day for Wrath of the Lich King, the latest expansion pack for World of Warcraft. My buddy Matt and I visited Gamestop at 11pm last night to wait in line to pick up our copies (total geeks, we know…). I’m still trying to decide if I will immediately start leveling my Warlock or roll a new Death Knight. I’ll let you know in a few days!

Perhaps it’s because I too had childhood cancer. Or maybe it’s because I’ve always had a soft spot for company’s that go out of their way to do nice things for their cutomers/fans. Either way, the story of Ezra Chatterton touched me when I first read about him back in 2007. He was an avid World of Warcraft player that caught the attention of Blizzard Entertainment (the makers of WoW) after he was diagnosed with brain cancer. Through the Make-A-Wish Foundation, Blizzard invited Ezra to their offices for a day. Truly a dream for any WoW fan!

I was very sad to learn that Ezra passed away today. No matter what, it’s a tragedy when a child is lost so young. Ezra, may you rest in peace.

Updated: Since I posted this, Blizzard and the Orange Country Register have written about Ezra. Links here:

WorldofWarcraft.com
OCRegister.com

Nerd. Geek. Dork. Whatever.

My friend Matt and I have returned from BlizzCon, and it’s safe to say we’re not nearly as nerdy as we thought we were. In fact, we’re not even close. While I will most likely remain the King of Nerd-dom at JohnstonWells (the mere fact that I went to BlizzCon assures that title for the foreseeable future), I am but a lowly peon in the worldwide Kingdom of Nerds.

Rest of the post over at the JW Blog.

Nerd. Geek. Dork. Uber.

After more than five years at JohnstonWells, I’m used to being called all of these things…often. It’s not that people at JohnstonWells are mean (in fact, everyone here is quite friendly). But the truth is, an online-game playin’, TechCrunch readin’, Attack of the Show watchin’ guy is just not common in the PR universe. But yes, it’s true that I can write a news release, field-strip my laptop (particularly handy after a colleague dumps coffee on it) AND take down Hogger. All in the same day if need be.

Rest of this post can be found over at the JW blog.