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Thank you, I appreciate that Illiasoudaine. Where would we be without EB2, eh? I've never played as the Sarmartae and, although I love the Romani, it seems to be the most common choice. I will generally choose the faction that has received the most changes (for each patch, or, version). I try to showcase some of these changes and give a small taste of the depth which EB2 has to offer. Next episode is coming together.
Past couple evenings instead of playing myself I did a rerun of your whole series, then Historical Gameplay's (Sarkiss) Makedonian Restoration and Great Heathen Army (for M&B) ones :) Especially after tiresome work sessions I can't find it in me to play, though I want to, so thanks to your AARs/Playthroughs I can feel like playing without having to play :D
@Mouzafphaerre: A well deserved pat on the back for watching all of that. I have also enjoyed watching videos by Sarkiss, he has a wealth of knowledge. I have added five more turns to the next video, as an important event takes place. Thus, there will be a delay for release. Hope work is less tiresome today.
Thanks! Deadline tomorrow but I'm getting there, sprinkling Sarkiss' After Alexandros battles in between to catch some breath ;)
New episode available.
Spoiler Alert, click show to read:
Thanks for another great episode with even richer narrative interpretations of seemingly routine game events than we have already been spoiled with!
@Mouzafphaerre: Thank you again for the support. King Gunthharias (Gunther, as you put it), has already lost authority and desperately needs a war. It is going to be difficult. I hope the Sweboz will not attempt an attack, before the campaign against the Heruskoz. I shall be filming tonight. Wish me luck.
An auspicious start to the new king's rule, amidst the growing seeds of centralization sown by his father. Great episode and insight. But those damned Boii... I'd be one of those rabble-rousers at the meetings who stirs the pot with the Celts.. until they start showing why they deserve respect! Those under Lugian rule and arms notwithstanding, of course.
@Dooz: I'm afraid there is a most displeasing development, regarding the Boioi. There are also other displeasing developments in the next episode. A lot to cover, but am not too far from release.
*sounds of swords sharpening*
New episode available.
Additional: Having reached the 30th episode, I personally feel as if the development of this particular kind of AAR technique is near completion. However, I would be interested in hearing feedback from the community, regarding aspects they feel could be changed, or, improved upon. I appreciate the support given by those who are enjoying the series. More episodes to come.
I don't see any particular problems with the technique; it feels like a visualization of many extant or referred ancient and medieval chronicles. Unless it starts to feel boring or monotonous to its author who might wish for a change in style I can see it going on quite a bit further :)
Now off to watching this recent episode of my favourite show ;)
Spoiler Alert, click show to read:
Thank you Mouzafphaerre. That Hariamerias has injured the whole Lugian kingdom with his traitorous act. I feel for King Gunthharias, but he shall have lead an army himself to destroy the turncoat.
Before all of that though: I shall be filming the Gaizariks vs Theudanaz Harkilaz battle tonight. I fear much rests on the outcome of this battle.
Wish the Lugians luck.
I wish you and Gaizariks (for whom I've been rooting :D) best of luck!
Thanks for this amazing AAR, charlieh, I began to watch it yesterday and I am enjoying it a lot :)
@Trarco: Thank you, I enjoy doing them. Looking forward to those Iberian development in future releases. Appreciate your efforts.
New episode available.
Spoiler Alert, click show to read:
Thanks for another excellent episode. It was delightful to watch at the end of a mildly stressful day :)
Sorry to hear about the work stress again, Mouzafphaerre.
Thank you again for the support.
More twists ahead, Haraimerias is up to many a trick. What a cunning foe.
My favorite TV show. More action and drama and twists and turns than any reality show or otherwise can deliver.
Spoiler Alert, click show to read:
Good to hear from you Dooz and thank you for the support.
You can rest easy. Of course, the descriptions of events are rationalized by myself, but, the foundation events for such rationalizations (including the Sweboz offer of peace you allude to), are taken from whatever the campaign or battles bring.
Now, for transparency, there have been one or two occasions, where I have manufactured an event. One being a Celtic charge, via indiscipline, in the pitched battle against Balthakwesiz (I believe you asked about this at the time) and there may be one in the next episode, although I am still brainstorming if there may be alternatives. Overall, I always endeavor to keep proceedings completely random and I do my best to avoid producing something myself.
Wow, that's awesome. Definitely feels earned after all those years and battles and losses on both sides. Gotta wonder how long it can last, though!
New episode available.
Spoiler Alert, click show to read:
Once again, great attention to detail and care for continuity (Re: Conquered nobles not being allowed to carry arms unless conscripted).
Thank you, Mouzafphaerre. We shall see what happens.
For now, I have cleaned up the links, as TWC had a moment.
Have a good weekend.
Out of curiosity...
Spoiler Alert, click show to read:
A stimulating question, Mouzafphaerre. The answer links into a reply I made to Dooz quite recently. Although, in the majority, I use only what occurs by chance for narrative, on occasion, there are times where the narrative could suffer without certain types of action *intriguing music plays*. In the case of King Gunthharias, after much deliberation, a certain type of action was committed to, in order to protect the narrative. I am cautious about providing more information, as I do not wish to compromise the role-playing element.
Great AAR! I've just started watching and enjoyed the Siege of Kalisia. (I wonder if you'd also like to post this in the Medieval II AARs area of the Writers' Study as well. It's up to you, of course, there's nothing wrong with posting it here.)
Thank you, Alwyn. I may see about doing that tomorrow. Good to hear you are enjoying the series.
Fair enough charlieh, master of intrigue :laughter:
New episode available.
Intrigue upon intrigue... We've yet to see if this is the dawn of a new era or the beginning of a tragic end. I hope for the prior.
Thanks for yet another brilliant episode :)
We enjoy a bit of intrigue, Mouzaphaerre. I shall be filming the next episode tonight. Hope work is not too tiresome.
I feel lucky to have something like this series exist. The perfect intersection of my interests represented and presented in thoroughly enjoyable fashion. The last two episodes have been fantastic and I can't get enough! Thanks for keeping this up charlieh, looking forward to these new developments raveling and unraveling and moving the world around them.
Many thanks Dooz. Yes, plenty of politics at the moment. I especially enjoy writing about these development. We shall see what happens next.
New episode available.
So much just happened my head is spinning.
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Indeed, Dooz. Events are happening thick and fast all of a sudden. I was thinking there would be a longer period of relative peace. I was wrong.
Gone thirsty to watch the last episode seeing your conversation. Will edit and append after watching it...
ADDENDVM
Amen to all of that!Quote:
Originally Posted by Dooz
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Thanks for another great episode. Your writing has been steadily improving, if I may be so bold, and becoming ever more fun to read :)
Much appreciated Mouzafphaerre. I share the concern about the Romans. It could be disastrous being pulled into their war with the Boioi. That being said, the Boioi are my allies, so not sure what is going to happen there.
Yes, it is not far from being a year since I started the series. I feel it has been a creative journey and I hope to make a couple of tweaks and additions in the future. That being said, in order to maintain creative consistency, those changes will be left to a future AAR.
Hope the week goes well.
Some treachery is in order. The hell with those useless borderfolk.Quote:
Originally Posted by charlieh
Indeed, Dooz. Alternatively, I may take the view of simply doing my upmost in order to stay out of the conflict. Have a good weekend.
New episode available.
The suspense builds up still!
Spoiler Alert, click show to read:
Did I mention how much I like your shots? Would like to hire your director of photography :thumbsup2
Thanks for the new episode. Had I checked before watching The Irishman, old Marty would be up for serious competition ;)
Thanks again, Mouzafphaerre. I do take a certain pride in trying to achieve good shots. It is not always easy with the MTW2: Kingdoms camera.
I actually started watching The Irishman last night. Only a third of the way through, but enjoying it. CGI on the faces is impressive.
What a battle that was!
Spoiler Alert, click show to read:
Thank you, Dooz. Yes, when Rikjamerias was surrounded, I thought that was it for young noble. Could be an important moment.
Indeed, that hill has seen thousands die upon it. I wonder what the locals would think? Sacred, or, cursed....
New episode available.
Most welcome news after a long interval :)Quote:
Originally Posted by charlieh
Real life and Christmas, Mouzafphaerre; a dangerous combination. That being said, I always do a least a little work on it each day.
Merry Cristmas in advance and best of luck in real life :)Quote:
Originally Posted by charlieh
As for the events in the Lugian kingdom...
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Thanks, as always, for a great episode :)
New episode available.
Spoiler Alert, click show to read:
Thanks :)
Happy new year, Mouzafphaerre. As to your last point, regarding the Romans, I am keenly aware, so am attempting to build good relations.
New episode available.
Saw the new episode when it was published but didn't have a chance to come down here and comment. Things are certainly not looking up for the Lugian Kingdom. Fingers crossed for a fortuitous turn of events.
Thanks for keeping up with this great epic :)
Thank you, Mouzafphaerre. The next episode is almost ready. I will try and publish it by tomorrow.
New episode available.
Spoiler Alert, click show to read:
Your skill of building stories upon the gamiest of gamy bits is shining in this last episode :) Thanks again :thumbsup2
Thanks, Mouzafphaerre. That is part of why I enjoy making these episodes. It is a mental workout. There are lots of things to try and keep aware of, from emerging scenarios, past events, character traits, future plans and more.
During the last days I finally managed to catch up on your AAR, charlieh.
And what can I say?
Outstanding, incredibly immersive, wonderful character play and storybuilding.
I enjoyed watching these videos immensely.
Please keep up the wonderful work.
EDITH adds: If I had to choose the one feature of your AAR that I like the most I'd definitely pick your ability to create a video AAR that is - due to quite a lot of text - a novel, too, at the same time. And it feels as if it just HAD to be that way.
(Your writing style is a close second, by the way.)
Thank you Shadowwalker, that means a lot to me, as do other messages of support from members of the EB2 community. I do put my whole self into the creation of these videos, but also try to keep a consistent style. I have always enjoyed the writing aspect of the AAR. It provides opportunity to add all those nuances and detail. I also enjoy a gritty battle, so combining writing and visual aspects seemed a intuitive choice.
New episode available.
Another great and important battle impending. Fingers crossed for team Lugia :jimkatalanos:
Its a tight battle. I shall leave you in suspense, Mouzafphaerre.
New episode available.
Spoiler Alert, click show to read:
Beautiful battle shots and narrative as always. Thanks for keeping it up charlieh :)
No worries Mouzafphaerre. As you probably guessed, I enjoy making them.
New episode available.
One step forward, one step back, then half a step forward... The toilsome history of the Lugian people summarized :)
Thanks for the new episode in this steadily improving series.
Well put Mouzafphaerre. It is a bitter struggle. The Sweboz seem to be in the ascendancy at the moment.
New episode available.
Please note that the original objective of this series was to finish when the next patch (2.4) was released. As this new patch is approaching testing, I shall be winding down this project. Consequently, two more episodes (44+45), shall be produced. This will take us to turn 250.
It is being the best AAR of EBII, great job!
Thank you Trarco, I've learnt a lot during this project.
New episode available.
Final episode available.
Having undertaken the last five turns, the scale of events that occurred encouraged a rethink, regarding the structure of this final episode. Therefore, this final episode shall be an epilogue and reflect more of a traditional AAR, with minimal visual and audio cues. The events of turns 245-250 shall be integrated into a greater narrative framework, which also provides speculation on events beyond the time-frame. Naturally, there is greater creative licence, however, I have attempted to keep this as tasteful as possible.
So, here ends our EB2 Video AAR for the Lugiones. I would like to thank everyone who has taken the time to watch these episodes and leave a comment. It was much appreciated.
Although, overall, I feel the project was solid, I would like to change and tweak certain elements for the next one. More specifically, I would like to incorporate a greater amount of historical information, via descriptions and other sources, in order to improve overall historical authenticity. As of yet, I have not decided on the faction I shall be using, but there is a certain candidate.
Happy Easter and stay safe.
Do Carthage for the next one, after the patch. I would watch every single one of them x)
@Lusitanio: It was not my original candidate, but Carthage is a faction I find interesting. I shall reconsider.
Well, by the amount of changes for the next patch, I would also recommend playing either the Lusitanians or the Celtiberians.
Seems as though we have Epeiros, Carthage, or, Lusitanians....much to consider.
Ptolemaics also, specially early gaame seem to get some nice changes to make them an interesting scenario.
Myself though Im really intrested in the factions you mentioned for a fisrt playthrough jeje.
I don't think that the new Lusitanian governments will be ready for the next patch. Surely, they will have to wait for the following one.
However, Celtiberians have both a unique government system and a unique and deep trait system (probably the best interconnected in the game) that makes this faction very "roleplayable". It is definitely a good choice for an AAR, especially if one of the objectives is to develop a "mercenary war" and establish a uchronia where you develop one or more "mercenary kingdoms" in Central Mediterranean after a revolt against Carthage. Also, some new events and mechanics regarding the relation between Iberians, Celtiberians and Punics from Iberia (Gader, etc.) will be added in the new patch. We also have all those revamped Celtiberian units as a new feature and some new traits too.
I guess that the new Carthaginian government system will be available for the new patch. This system is very drastic because it removes the current one and adds about 27 new buildings of political nature (14 of those buildings can be considered as "final tiers"). They include long and accurate texts that explain the current historiographical points of view regarding the ancient Punic world and the "Carthaginian imperialism". Our objective is to totally change the way of playing this faction and alter current recruitment. So, definitely it is a good choice for an AAR and to show the new mechanics. The patch will also include some new traits for this faction.
Apart from Epeiros, probably, the Bosphoran Kingdom could also include new reforms, traits and governments, so again, we have another good choice here.
That said, as always, all of this is work in progress and nothing is certain since it depends on our manpower and free time :thumbsup2
Anyway, let's not "pressure" charlieh, whatever he decides, I am sure it will be a great AAR. Currently, he has made one of the less played faction a very interesting one. :)
Thank you, Lusitanio, Jervaj and Trarco. That is all useful information. Thinking about it, although Epeiros and Ptolemaioi are factions I enjoy, I may leave those for now. Carthage, I like, but the scale of its territory at the start of the campaign is a factor to consider. I am looking at the Areuakoi with increasing interest. It seems they may provide an opportunity to display some of the new campaign systems being added and also some new units as well (if am mistaken about this, please could someone correct me). I shall mull over it this evening and start research tomorrow.
27 political buildings with 14 been "final tiers? WHAT!?Quote:
Originally Posted by Trarco
That looks amazing at scary at equal parts. It so much more than any other factions. Is this supposed to be an exception or are other factions going to get mroe complex systems too, even if not with this many options neccesarilly?
Its funny because Carthage goverments were already quite unique on how they worked and how you played them with the close mutual relationship between colony types/sizes and the goverment level they unlock and also goverments unlocking bigger colonies. With then the after reform branch that allows to progress with smaller colonies though also imepdes to proress after a certain size. The hellenistic powers have something similar but its much less prevalent in that aspect as basically presence or not of hellenistic colony and polis/greek culture quickly leads you to your best option, which with Carthage you had to earn though having more potential over time.
Honeslty I cant phantom what the many options would be. But very eager to see how it works. Just hoping its not too much of a pain to decide jeje. Hope there is a feel of progression due to inevstment and decisions as there is now though, even if the way of playing the faction is very different. Glad to know they will have detailed descriptions to learn and see in what they consist.
I had the pleasure of catching up with episodes 37 through the end over the past couple days. And then I had the same deep feeling of sadness and emptiness that accompanies the series finale of any great TV show I've grown to love. What a truly special experience this was, thank you charlieh for sharing it with us and for all the work it took to do so.
I can't even begin to discuss the details of every twist and turn and tragedy and heartbreak and hope I witnessed and felt over these last few hours of alternate history and rich storytelling. But by the gods, much of it was just so damn powerful.
The poor old diplomat who never got his due, even though that hope was what kept him going, only to be soured as he was just before death. Poor, accursed son of fallen royalty, what a tragic tale and final destiny for him. And the saddest of all may be the king and his prophecies, what an incredible way to wrap this all up. I am genuinely moved by it all.
And the battles! Forget about it. Cinematography kept getting better and better, and the battles themselves were compelling and meaningful and impactful and simply fun to watch. Narration and context and story interwoven adding so much to them. Just great.
Thank you for giving us little cluster of fans of something so specific the kind of content we crave and cherish. I can't believe our luck for having had this in our lives! If there is indeed another series to come, consider me a happy man in the future.
[P.S. I watched some of your "Through Their Eyes" series, and man... You somehow have the exact tastes as I do, but the gumption and skill to do something with it that allows others to enjoy. I absolutely love the concept and execution! Can't wait to watch it all.]
Its good to hear from you Dooz, I remember your comments all the way back from the beginning of the AAR. Time seems to pass quicker as I get older.
I appreciate the feedback. Unfortunately, I seem to be hyper-critical of my own work. Therefore, your words are a tonic sir!
Trarco has provided me with a good list of reading materials for the Celtiberians. My knowledge slowly builds over the days.
As stated, I would like to develop the historical authenticity of my descriptions and weave those into the narrative.
[P.S - I am doing a second series, developing that as well, based upon feedback from the community].
Have a good one and stay safe.
The plight of the artist. :( It's both what will keep your product top notch and ever improving, and not allow you to fully see and appreciate that it is. I hope you continue to enjoy the exercise of making these and do indeed let the positive feedback mean something to you. The series certainly has meant a lot to me and others I'm sure!Quote:
Unfortunately, I seem to be hyper-critical of my own work.
I'm getting excited about your Celtiberian history lessons and cultural deep dive. And the implications it will have on our EB AAR future. I appreciated the mix of historicity and narrative in the Lugian series, and trusting your choices and instincts as I do from having watched it all, I know the new one will be even better. :)
Me before watching your AAR: This charlieh guy seems to know his stuff, maybe I should go watch their videos. What!? 45 episodes? *rolls eyes* Well, at least they are short... *sigh*
Me, ten minutes into the first video: Go, Guy Fieris army, go!! Stab 'em in the eyes! IN THE EYES I SAY!!
Now seriously @charlieh, I've seen hundreds of AAR, tutorials and game guides in video form, but yours are one of the few that got me hooked since the first minute. You've found a simple yet effective formula to convey both the narrative and flow of the story and the action of the battles, in a way I've never thought could be possible in the TW2 engine. You can be very proud of your work mate :)
Thank you again Dooz and Makute. I shall endeavor to continue and, in some places, further develop/refine, my work in the next AAR. Getting excited for this next patch.
As Dooz so eloquently put, following your excellent series for months (as a latecomer) gave me the same level of pleasure as watching a favourite TV serial or -as I remember saying before- a well done historical docu-drama. Seeing to the end of it has left a bittersweet taste: For one thing I'm happy that you concluded it according to your plan and it didn't end up abandoned like many a well begun fan fiction work; on the other hand, that it finally has ended makes a fan sad. It's no exaggeration to say that your final episode left feelings of similar order to when I rewatch a Star Trek series final (from TOS to Enterprise, none of the later forgeries).
I'm looking forward to watching your future works, no matter which faction you pick. Thanks for all the fun and enjoyment!
Mouz, we should do a recap podcast where we watch all the episodes and talk about them. If for no other reason than an excuse to rewatch all the episodes.
True words!Quote:
Originally Posted by Mouzafphaerre
I'm currently at 35 episode, and the wholehad me literally at the border of my seat. Emergent gameplay at its finest.Spoiler Alert, click show to read:
I just don't want it to finish :)
Thank you Mouzafphaerre (its good to hear from you again), Dooz and Makute. I did not think that this series would be well received, so I appreciate the support, truly. EB2 seems to be a role-players dream (and in other ways too). It seems to provide so many opportunities to create a story. My thanks to the continued efforts of the team.