So it's been a looooooooooong time since I have been on dA.

Too loooooooooooooong.

Truth be told I used the excuse of my computer exploding on me to shy away from here. The messages kept building and I kept moving further away from them. I've hardly drawn much in my free time after work and mainly just been catching up on playing games that I have had for years but neglected.

My computer is still mangled, but it's just missing a graphics card. I ain't a PC gamer so it doesn't really bother me.
In the mean time  I have just been planning and giving serious thought about events I can do, and the type of artwork I want to post. I've had so many different ideas for AFL, and then more ideas for other tournaments and contests that seem too cool to be restricted by the AFL banner. All these ideas and I don't know which to go for, so inevitably, I have chosen none so far. lol

Like I said, it's been a loooooong time and I have a lot of catching up to do with everyone's journals and artwork and see what I have missed in all these months.

Work wise I have left one job and have gone freelance working back in animation.
Life wise I have gotten engaged to my girlfriend after nearly 10 years of being together.

I'll try not making everyone wait that long for the next AFL.
No promises.

My computer decided to not turn on last night. The bastard.

I tried everything, from checking everything was plugged in right, using different plug sockets, opening up the case and making sure all the innards were connected, cleaned it out of dust, changed the plug's fuse, but alas, nothing. I just hit that power button and nothing happens.

I think the problem is something simple like the power cable or the power...box? Whatever does the power inside the computer. I ain't the most technical of people, but you know what I mean.

Luckily I have a laptop to carry on with work. Things like this scares you into remembering to back-up your work...

Legitimate reason for an AFL delay now then.

Maybe they'll actually make a decent Star Wars movie for once.

OOOOOOOOoooooooooooooooOOOOOOOOOOooooooooooooooo

A more organized AngelCrusher would have suggested a Halloween Art Jam to draw your characters dressed as another dA character, which I thought would have been fun, but I am not that fully organized AngelCrusher at this moment in time.

Instead I will direct you to Halloween Party jam over at her journal.
Halloween Partyi'm holding a Halloween Party jam at my group :iconthe-wanderingstar:
IT IS OPEN TO ALL, not just aliens!
Idea by :iconangelcrusher: who used to hold awesome parties;

Just draw your OC partying and I'll gather them all into a big picture at the end of the month.
As many entries as you like
Just plain white backgrounds please
You can have them in fancy dress or not, doing whatever they do at a halloween party!
All entries in by 31st October Midnight (UK time)(allowances for time differences if needed)
Partygoers


I am going to try to get something done so I hope there will be others too.
Bex reminded me of a Halloween Jam I held back in 2009. A long time a go, but I still think it was a great collaborative effort from everyone involved.

Take a moment to hop in your time machine and turn back the years.


In the meantime, I will try getting myself more organized.
Apologies.

*EDIT - Filled in my own Meme. Silly me*

AFL Music Meme

So I am listening to my ipod on shuffle for the first time in a long time. I remembered doing one of those Playlist Meme journal things which was a bit of fun, so I thought I would do another one. However when I wet through the journal search on dA the first couple I saw were crap, and while I was too lazy to search for a better one, I thought I would make my own. Reverse logic.


Here are the rules.
1)Put your music player on shuffle
2)When the song comes up, fill in the answer one by one.
3)Dont skip a track for cool or lol worthy results.
4)Tell everyone where you got this from.

1.  How would you describe the last AFL?
Real to Me
( Brian McFadden)

2.  So, what sort of character should you enter into the next AFL?
Papa Don't Preach
(Kelly Osbourne)

3.  Interesting. So, what would their motto or catchphrase be?
One Shot 2 Shot
(Eminem & D12)

4.  Ah, that probably hints at their origin. How did they come to be?
Transformers
(Lion)

5.  Ok ok, too much information! What is their trademark move?
He Lives in You
(Lion King)

6.  Sounds powerful...or terrible, not quite sure. What sort of arena would best suit this fighter?
Bonkers
(Dizzee Rascal)

7.  I don't think that's legal, but ok. How well do you think they will do in the tournament?
Wake Up
(Fightstar)

8.  I agree. What do you think of your opponents?
Doorbell
(White Stripes)

9.  Strong words. How would you celebrate winning AFL?
Numb
(Linkin Park)

10.  Wow, really thought this through haven't you?
A Guy Like You
(A Hunchback of Notre Dame)

11.  Weird, that last one wasn't a proper question, quite rude of you to interrupt like that. Can you put into words how you feel with the anticipation of the next AFL?
Drop The Bombshell
(Powerman 5000)

12.  That's quite normal. *presses button for security* So, what is your favourite thing about AFL?
White Shadows
(Coldplay)

13.  Riiiiiiight....So, how do you feel about AngelCrusher?
Long Time Coming
(The Zutons)

14.  Sweet words. He is dead though, right? I mean, how else can you explain his absence?
Money Bought
(Nickelback)

15. Couldn't put it better myself. This...between us, has been great. I think we should use you as the spokesperson of the next AFL. We need a catchy tag line for it. Any suggestions? AFL 6:...
She Will be Loved
(Maroon 5)

Have fun folks. Who knows, maybe this'll inspire your next AFL character...

*Don't judge me by my playlist. I don't think I have updated it since 2008.*

AFL Music MemeTaken from the wonderful :iconangelcrusher: The Master of AFL (Angelcrusher's Fighting League)
Here are the rules.
1)Put your music player on shuffle
2)When the song comes up, fill in the answer one by one.
3)Dont skip a track for cool or lol worthy results.
4)Tell everyone where you got this from.
1.  How would you describe the last AFL?
Party Rock Anthem
(LMFAO)
2.  So, what sort of character should you enter into the next AFL?
Wish You Were Here
(Ed Sheeran etc)
3.  Interesting. So, what would their motto or catchphrase be?
What's Up?
(4 Non Blondes)
4.  Ah, that probably hints at their origin. How did they come to be?
Hey Jude
(The Beatles)
5.  Ok ok, too much information! What is their trademark move?
Stronger
(Kanye West)
6.  Sounds powerful...or terrible, not quite sure. What sort of arena would best suit this fighter?
Somewhere Else
(Razorlight)
7.  I don't think An AFL MemeTaken from :iconangelcrusher:
Here are the rules.
1)Put your music player on shuffle
2)When the song comes up, fill in the answer one by one.
3)Dont skip a track for cool or lol worthy results.
4)Tell everyone where you got this from.
1.  How would you describe the last AFL?
Dancehall Places
(Mint Royale)
2.  So, what sort of character should you enter into the next AFL?
Who's your Daddy?
(Benny Benassi)
3.  Interesting. So, what would their motto or catchphrase be?
One Simple Idea
(Inception OST)
4.  Ah, that probably hints at their origin. How did they come to be?
The Hornburg
(LOTR:The Two Towers OST)
5.  Ok ok, too much information! What is their trademark move?
Time
(Inception OST)
6.  Sounds powerful...or terrible, not quite sure. What sort of arena would best suit this fighter?
Strict Machine
(Goldfrapp)
7.  AFL 6 Music MemeHere are the rules.
1)Put your music player on shuffle
2)When the song comes up, fill in the answer one by one.
3)Dont skip a track for cool or lol worthy results.
4)Tell everyone where you got this from. :iconAngelCrusher:  
1.  How would you describe the last AFL?
A House is Not A Home ( Luther Vandross)
2.  So, what sort of character should you enter into the next AFL?
Bump in the Road (Johnny Lang)
3.  Interesting. So, what would their motto or catchphrase be?
Yellow Brick Road (Eminem)
4.  Ah, that probably hints at their origin. How did they come to be?
.45 (ShineDown)
5.  Ok ok, too much information! What is their trademark move?
Walking Thru Barbed Wire (Papa Roach)
6.  Sounds powerful...or terrible, not quite sure. What sort of arena would best suit this fighter?
Just Lose It (Eminem)
7.  I don't think that's legal, but ok. How well do you think they will do in the tournament?
What'd I Say (Ray Cha AFL Music MemeTo brush off the sadness of the previous journal
:icondrweirdplz: GENTLEMEN! BEHOLD!
Taken fron :iconangelcrusher:
Here are the rules.
1)Put your music player on shuffle
2)When the song comes up, fill in the answer one by one.
3)Dont skip a track for cool or lol worthy results.
4)Tell everyone where you got this from.
1.  How would you describe the last AFL?
A.- The Touch (Stan Bush)
2.  So, what sort of character should you enter into the next AFL?
A.- Last Resort (Papa Roach)
3.  Interesting. So, what would their motto or catchphrase be?
A.- Transformers EVO (JAM Project)
4.  Ah, that probably hints at their origin. How did they come to be?
A.- DVNO (Justice)
5.  Ok ok, too much information! What is their trademark move?
A.- Tokkei Winspector (Takayuki Miyauchi)
6.  Sounds powerful...or terrible, not quite sure. What sort of arena would best suit this fighter?
A.-  Take Me H
AFL Music MemeHere are the rules.
1)Put your music player on shuffle
2)When the song comes up, fill in the answer one by one.
3)Dont skip a track for cool or lol worthy results.
4)Tell everyone where you got this from.
1.  How would you describe the last AFL?
My Child
(Disturbed)
2.  So, what sort of character should you enter into the next AFL?
Warrior
(Disturbed)
3.  Interesting. So, what would their motto or catchphrase be?
Little Talks
(Of Monsters and Men)
4.  Ah, that probably hints at their origin. How did they come to be?
Bad Romance
(Lady Gaga)
5.  Ok ok, too much information! What is their trademark move?
Lasso
(Phoenix)
6.  Sounds powerful...or terrible, not quite sure. What sort of arena would best suit this fighter?
I Believe in a Thing Called Love.
(The Darkness)
7.  I don't think that's legal, but ok. How well do you think they will do in the tournament?
Everlong
(FooFighters)
8.  I agree. What do you thin AFL Music MemeDecided to do the AFL Meme that :iconangelcrusher: came up with it.
Here are the rules.
1)Put your music player on shuffle
2)When the song comes up, fill in the answer one by one.
3)Dont skip a track for cool or lol worthy results.
4)Tell everyone where you got this from.
1.  How would you describe the last AFL?
Tea For Two (Benny Goodman)
2.  So, what sort of character should you enter into the next AFL?
Wings For Marie (Tool)
3.  Interesting. So, what would their motto or catchphrase be?
Lifeline (Angels and Airwaves)
4.  Ah, that probably hints at their origin. How did they come to be?
Don't Wanna Think About You (Simple Plan)
5.  Ok ok, too much information! What is their trademark move?
My Life For Hire (A Day to Remember)
6.  Sounds powerful...or terrible, not quite sure. What sort of arena would best suit this fighter?
Lasagna (The Knife)
7.  I don't think that' AFL Music Meme:iconangelcrusher: wants us to do this AFL related meme, where the answers are from your music library set to shuffle.
Sorry mine is crap!
EDIT: Just now realising how useless the shuffle function is on itunes....
1.  How would you describe the last AFL?
Spawn of Dysfunction
(Die So Fluid)
2.  So, what sort of character should you enter into the next AFL?
XX
(Mushroomhead)
3.  Interesting. So, what would their motto or catchphrase be?
Host
(Muse)
4.  Ah, that probably hints at their origin. How did they come to be?
Futurism
(Muse)
5.  Ok ok, too much information! What is their trademark move?
Crack
(Mad Capsule Markets)
6.  Sounds powerful...or terrible, not quite sure. What sort of arena would best suit this fighter?
The Air Resistor
(The Pillows)
7.  I don't think that's legal, but ok. How well do you think they will do in the tournament?
On that Day 5 Years Ago
(FFVII Soundtrack)
8.  I agree. What AFL Music MemeI gotten this from  :iconangelcrusher:
Here are the rules.
1)Put your music player on shuffle
2)When the song comes up, fill in the answer one by one.
3)Dont skip a track for cool or lol worthy results.
4)Tell everyone where you got this from.
1.  How would you describe the last AFL?
       Pound The Alarm (Explicit) (Nicki Minaj)
2.  So, what sort of character should you enter into the next AFL?
     Calcutta remix (Basshunter)
3.  Interesting. So, what would their motto or catchphrase be?
     Smooth Criminal (David Garrett)
4.  Ah, that probably hints at their origin. How did they come to be?
      Control the Mind original mix (Zanza Labs)
5.  Ok ok, too much information! What is their trademark move?
       Calcutta (Taxi, Taxi, Taxi) (Dr. Bombay)
6.  Sounds pow

Hey ho!

I am back from my holidays at long last! Never had any time to get to comments and sadly no time for drawing either. I will make up for it though with all the commissions I have to get back to doing.

Its always weird going away and being cut off from the world with no internet. There wasn't any wifi on the boat (unless you wanted to pay for it) and 3G is expensive in foreign countries. But its sort of liberating not having to worry about the internet, messages, emails...it makes me remember of times when I was more productive. lol

Anyway, holiday was a blast. Saw some great shows during the cruise, eat plenty of free food, experienced awful and wonderful weather and even managed to watch some football which I am always happy with.  Highlight was going inside the Vatican Church. I am not a religious man by any means, but what a grand, beautiful building with amazing artwork and sculptures. Truly remarkable building.

One particular achievement during my trip was climbing a 200 foot wall. Now, I am shit scared of heights, really, really hate them. I get dizzy and weak at the knees climbing up a ladder. But my girlfriend was climbing a wall, I said I would have a go and quit when I didn't like it, but I just kept going like spider-man. A very slow, and shaky, nervous spider-man who refused to look down and hated every moment of the climb. lol Seriously, my legs shook as I could kinda glimpse everything below me and I was so scared I didn't think I would have the strength to pull myself up. And it just got harder and harder as it got higher, but I started to see the top with the bell to ring and knew I couldn't quit being so close. I am happy to say I did it...but never again! Definitely confronting that fear did not conquer it.

Being away also allowed me to catch up on my reading. I ploughed through some Dragon Ball Z mangas. Say what you want about the story, the cliches, whatever, the artwork is wonderful and inspiring. And without filler episodes its non stop action. Brilliant. I really need to draw more DBZ fanart.

But one book which I thoroughly enjoyed was a  book by Max Brallier called "Can You Survive the Zombie Apocalypse?" - [link]



Its an adventure type book where you make decisions as you go along and flip to certain pages to see the outcome of your choices. Its a great read, a little bit of horror, lots of gore, laughs and epic moments. I cannot recommend this enough. Have you always watched a zombie movie and complained at how the characters have reacted? Well this puts you in the position to act out the apocalypse as you would intend to. I won't spoil things too much, but on my first read I ran home from work, barricaded myself in my apartment, ran out of supplies and joined the Hell's Angels. There are loads of different story arcs and endings, some good, a lot of bad, grizzly ends, but all a great read. I wish I could play a zombie game like this.

Anyway, thanks for reading. Now to catch up with everything on dA.

Off on hols for a week on a nice cruise, going to be stopping off at Toulon, Monaco, Florence, Rome and Pompeii.

All those awaiting commissions, don't worry, they are on priority when I come back. Apologies for the delay.

See ya later guys!

Someone reminded me something that has 6een missing this year...

Would you be interested in something like this?

How much would you pay?

You can note me if you don't want to answer publicly, even if you don't want one or can't afford a commission, just interested if its something people would want.

is going crazy.
Until Sunday, he is doing commissions for $2 a character! I kid you not, check his journal yourself - [link]

Check him out.


$2 people!

I am looking to get a new mobile phone. Finally.
I am jealous of everyone posting pictures instantly on twitter and facebook, or burying their heads in their phones. I want that sort of outlet to get out of socially awkward or boring situations.
Alas, my current phone, an LG Cookie isn't really built for that.

So, Vodafone recommended to me a Vodafone Smart II V860 for £70.

Reading online reviews, it doesnt seem great, but I dont know if people are just picky and comparing it to iphones and more expensive products.

I saw recommendations for a Motorola Defy Mini XT321 for £79.

Here are some comparison sites that I cant quite get my head around.
[link] [link] [link]

I just want a decent enough cheap smartphone with wi-fi to go on twitter and post pictures.

So, anyone who is a phone expert, can you decipher those details and recommend which is better? Or have any other better recommendations yourselves?

I realize I seem very old posting this. Ooooo confusing modern technology.

Buddy and great artist is doing stupidly cheap commissions for $5, or 5 for $20! I couldn't help myself and got a batch of 5 characters.



Think you'll agree these look AMAZING!

So, $5 a character...just £3 for us UK folk for one of these guys? Bargain.

Check out all the other characters he has done in this style and tell me you ain't tempted.


Check his journal for more info.
$5 CommissionsI've recently taken on a few commissioned Daily Characters and thought I'd throw this out there to see if anyone else would be interested.
Prices are $5 per character or 5 characters for $20 (payment preferred through Paypal at striffle@tpg.com.au). I'll also supply you with a hi-res PDF of each character so you can do what you want with it.
For examples of these, check out the links below.

The characters can be your own or any other existing ones. I don't mind, I'll try anything! If anyone is interested drop me a line and help me earn some more beer money for my upcoming trip around the States.
Completed Commissions
for *AngelCrusher
for $y2jenn
for ~aurgail
for ~TheAmbushBug

Also going to throw into the mix £1 commissions!


Did anyone not read about my *FREE* mentoring?

I need the money and have free time on Fridays now, so from now on my Fridays are *insert echo*

COMMISSION FRIDAYS!

Basically I will try to gather as many commissions as possible today, and then try to do them all before the following Friday. Services available are:

$10 commissions



$15 Superspeed Date



And finally, I want to try out a new $5 commission, Character Mentor service.


"Basically if you want help or guidance with a character design, backstory, how to draw, or just any sort of ideas, then thats what I want to do with this character mentor idea.

The example here, I commented on how the character description didn't quite match the design, and hence the adjustments. Give my reasoning a read through as well as the original bio and see if it makes sense.

This service will be $5 per consultation, in which I would redesign/redraw and advise on the design, hopefully using my 'industry experience' and MA degree in Animation to good use.

Ideally this is for cartoon characters or those who want help with their drawings or designs, but could also be for different styles who want a more cartoon/animated look."

For a limited time, I will offer 3 free slots for this character mentor service, 1 slot per person so no one gets greedy. I wont be posting the edits on dA, I'll just email you the files. I am excited by this idea as I love helping others developing ideas, so if anyone fancies a go and then wants to recommend me that would be brill.

Remember, sign up for today, as its...COMMISSION FRIDAY!!!

Queue
2 x characters - Done


2 x characters - Done
1 character - Done



Mentoring

Only one person took me up on my free offer.

In all that excitement of Dollar Fighting ending, I forgot to mention the tributes for the champion!

Shocking of me I know. To think, I call this a well organized professional organization...

So all through July, pay your respects (as if your dollar wasn't enough) to the winner of Dollar Fighter 3 with some lovely fanart!




Champion Tributes






If you are feeling generous, and I know nearly all of you are (yeah, we know all know the ones who aren't), you can even draw the Dollar Fighter runner-up and I will also post it here too.




Runner-Up Tributes



Just send me a message or comment on this journal with a link to the artwork and it will get featured!
Deadline July 31st

Round 1 - [link] [link]
Round 2 - [link]
Round 3 - [link]
Round 4 - [link]
Semi-Finals - [link]
Final - [link]

This isn't anything soppy, so just hear me out.

I have been filling out forms recently and needing some details of education, employment history with specific dates etc etc. I couldnt remember these dates myself, but remember that I have recorded such efforts with journal posts in the past, kinda like a diary. So I went through some old journals, found the information I needed, and bam! Thank you very much dA!

I also saw a lot of things I have forgotten I wrote, as well as reading my own words from years ago, its a fun experience. So the thing I love about dA is having this website that has recorded my history and progress through life as an artist, and is something I can always look back upon, whether its seeing the progress of my artwork (hasnt really improved in 5 years ) or just seeing what I have been up to, my thoughts and opinions and my interactions with other people in the community.

It annoys me when people delete their accounts for new ones, or delete aspects of their gallery. dA is like a time capsule, and something I will enjoy to look back upon many times in the future.

...ahem...

Anyway, get back to fighting.

The Winner...

After 6 weeks of fantastic battles, amazing characters with spectacular pieces of art work, in admittedly some crazy and challenging arenas, we find ourselves in the last fight, the final to crown the Dollar Fighter 3 champion.

2 epic pieces of art work from 2 brilliant artists. It was hard to decide a winner between the two as every voter had mentioned. Here are just some of the thoughts from people on the outcome of this match up.

"Two masterpieces!"

"It was a hard choice, my vote changed so many times before I posted this..."

"I seriously sat here and switched back and forth between them trying to decide..."

And I think this one sums up a lot of people's opinions...

"They are both so incredibly phenomenal! Too bad we can't have a joint winner."



But alas, there mus the one winner of the $120 cash prize and the title of Dollar Fighter king or queen..

... and the winner is...

Its time.
After 5 weeks of fighting, we have come to this moment, the Final of Dollar Fighter 3, with the chance to take away not just the prize money, but the title, the crown, and respect of every other fighter.

65 fighters have been whittled down to 2 very worthy contenders.

Let's get the show underway...

Round 6
The Final
The Beautiful Game

The fighters have been through some journey during Dollar Fighter 3. They have faced their own disaster movie experience, an inner body experience, travelled through time in an apocalyptic world, battled along side pocket monsters and lived a high roller lifestyle. Their bodies battered and bruised after each fantastic encounter. One more fight, one more  opponent to defeat, one more dramatic arena, and the prize, the title, is theirs.

You walk down a long, concrete tunnel side by side with your opponent. Your footsteps echoing off the walls, your heart beating faster and faster as you reach the light at the end, a murmuring of a chanting crowd growing louder and louder, until you finally step out the tunnel, blinded by the light, hit with a wall of sound.

You are faced with 100,000 screaming fans, a magnificent stadium at full capacity, with the crowd split 50-50 in the supporting the Dollar Fighter finalists. You walk out onto the grass pitch where a presentation is set up, with Simone on a podium with the Dollar Fighter trophy filled with the $12 million prize fund.

"Welcome to the grand final of Dollar Fighter 3!"

She announces on a microphone blasted around the sound systems of the stadium, still hard to make out due to the cheering of the excited crowd.

"The cuffs are now off, literally, so that we can have the best, most exciting final contest in Dollar Fighter history. As you can see, the prize money is now filling the new Dollar Fighter 3 trophy to the brim, and only one person can take the title.

You may be wondering why we are in a sports stadium to witness this fight...or more importantly why there is grass beneath your feet.

Well...I think its time I re-introduce a few familiar faces..."

Simone smiles and gestures towards the tunnel, as figures begin emerging from the shadows. Then, one by one, walking from the tunnel, greeted by an eruption of applause is each and every Dollar Fighter contestant that has been eliminated from the tournament. The walk on to the grass pitch and line-up infront of Simone and her podium.

"I'd like to welcome back the Dollar Fighter roster, who will have an important part to play in this round.

You see, you finalists will act as Team Captains.

Out of the roster of Dollar Fighter, you will select 4 fighters to compile a team."

The crowd are on their feet!

"A 5-a-side football (soccer) team!"

Some Dollar Fighter stewards rush on to the pitch erecting the goal posts and marking  the grass.

"Pick wisely. And this is not a normal football match, anything goes to score goals! Fighting is allowed!"

And with that Simone steps down and approaches each finalist, each team captain, as they decide which fighter they want on their team...


With Euro 2012 currently upon us, its a football summer! You are competing in a football (soccer) stadium. Your characters are no longer carrying their briefcases. You must select a football team of 4 extra characters to complete your team, who will all wear the same football kits relative to their team captains. This is not just a football match, but fighting is allowed! Pick your team wisely to best use their attributes to gain advantage for the match!
Character References - [link]


Round 6
The Finals

Vs

Winner -

Well done Jeb on regaining the Dollar Fighter title, and well fought Mogorron! After a closely fought contest, you have certainly staked your claim for future tournaments for sure!

And that is it for another fantastic tournament guys!

A massive thanks to everyone who took part and all the amazing pieces of artwork we have seen over the course of the past few weeks.

And a huge thank you to all the sponsors who kindly donated and helped create a mammoth, substantial prize-fund to inspire the artists to give it their all to fight for.

We will have a hard time trying to top this one folks, but I'm sure we'll give it a go.

See you next time.


Deadline
Sunday 17th June


Character References
All character references can be found in the following journal:
[link]


Round 1 - [link] [link]
Round 2 - [link]
Round 3 - [link]
Round 4 - [link]
Semi-Finals - [link]

Well we all knew the voting will be hard to decide these semi-finalists, and how close the votes were reflected that.
Both fights were close, with one half of the semi-final being decided by just 1 vote.

So read on to see your finalists...and stay tuned for the announcement of the final, coming soooooon!

Well, Round 4 was a little controversial and split opinions, but hopefully it was a bit different, a bit of fun creatively and to watch, and I think spawned some great fights! Really good to see people take a different idea than what we usually do and run with it. And as we narrow down the contestants to the final 4, things start to get rather juicy with the final not far away. I bet you can almost smell those fresh, crisp dollar bills...

Round 5
Semi-Finals
Stick or Twist

After the latest confusing encounter, no one can second guess where the next Dollar Fighter round will take them. The fighters are just relieved to be in their respective hotel suites, relaxing after another hard fought bout. Nothing but the best with no expenses sparred, they get to unwind in 5 star luxury. After a fresh revitalizing shower, washing the shame of pokemon off your credible fighting frame, you hear a knock on your door. You put on the plush, soft dressing gown, knowing Dollar Fighter, you put up your guard, ready for anything. But as you open the door, there is a hotel steward, delivering an envelope to you, and bids you a good night.

The envelope is like a printed dollar bill, with your name engraved in gold, a red wax stamp seals it with a portrait of Simone, the Dollar Fighter hostess. You eagerly open the envelope, expecting news of the next round.

"Congratulations on becoming a semi-finalist in Dollar Fighter 3!

I do hope you are enjoying the luxury of this grand hotel, and wish to heighten your experience with an invitation to the hottest Casino in the country! With the Dollar Fighter tournament in full swing, they promise to give the semi-finalists the full red carpet, VIP treatment and make you all feel like the stars that you are!

There is some formal wear in the closest especially for the occasion, and I do hope you accept the invitation.

Regards
Simone"

Well, you weren't expecting that! You check your closest, and indeed, the smartest garment you have ever seen resides in it. It's about time you have some perks in this event!

...

Your Casino visit is complete with a chauffeur driven limo straight to the entrance, where you are indeed met with a red carpet and paparazzi photographers and reporters all wanting to have a word with a Dollar Fighter semi-finalist. After some quick words and poses for the camera, you wave and enter the building, stunned by the exquisite architecture and dazzled by the bright lights and sounds. You are greeted by a representative of the casino, who feeds you the backstory of the building, how much they are honoured to have you as their guests, and for a publicity stunt, they want to offer you a free bet as the cards table.

You feel strange being so close to the other semi-finalists and not fighting, but the environment is so far removed from a usual Dollar Fighter arena, with each contestant sharply dressed, with everyone around looking magnificent in such a beautiful building, and being treated like a real star. You could even say you are enjoying yourself, and even the company as you knock back a few glasses of wine as the croupier deals out your cards.

You lift them up, taking a peek, and eyeballing your opponents.

"So, how confident are you? Stick or twist?"

You recognise the voice. You didn't notice at first with her head lowered dealing the cards, but the croupier is infact Simone, dressed appropriate in her disguise. Your body tenses in anticipation, knowing full well what she is about to say as she smirks with that mischievous glint in her eye.

"Welcome semi-finalists to your semi-final arena! I'm not a gambling woman, but I bet you can bring the house down tonight!"

From under the table she pulls out some sort of bazooka, that fires a load of casino chips in the air, sending the crowds in a frenzy. Nothing is ever normal is it?


You are fighting in a fine, classy, glitzy casino meant for the high rollers, upper class & A list celebrities. Your characters are sharply dressed in attire befitting for such an occasion. Your fights can take place anywhere in the casino and use any prop or setting to their advantage. Remember, the characters are now carrying around $2.8 million! Stakes are high!


Round 5
Semi-Finals

1. Vs
WINNER -

2. Vs
WINNER -



Stick or Twist II
The long fought fights went on under the dazzling lights of slot machines and chandeliers, the most classy battles Dollar Fighter has seen with each contestant dressed to impress. As the fighters are exhausted, feeling they have done enough to get the victory and proceed to the final of the tournament, the spotlights beam on and that familiar, commanding female voice booms over the casino applauding.

"Well done...bravo, bravo!"

Simone cheers.

"An excellent contest, and now, its time to decide who will make it into the final and aim for glory to be champion, and who will be sent home.

But..."

She smiles THAT smile, the one she does when she has something up her sleeve. The one she smiles when she throws a curveball...it makes you uneasy.

"You see, those briefcases you are carrying contain a lot of money. You have been carrying them from fight 1, and increasing their value with each victory. But surely you must have questioned the whole point of these briefcases? What was their purpose if the winner goes on to claim all the money? Why would I not simply transfer the money directly to the champion, or give them a massive novelty cheque?

I am an organized woman, and there is a method to what some may call, my madness. There is a reason why the semi-finals took place in this casino. Home to gambling. Are you a gambling man...woman?"

Everyone is hooked on her every word, not quite sure what she is getting at and she draws out her intentions, taking pleasure in the attention, the drama, the spectacle of events.

"For the first time in Dollar Fighter history, the fighters have the option to advance to the final, or go home.

Will you stick, or twist?"


Rules

You can take that money in the briefcase that you have been carrying all this time, and you can go home. Accept defeat, but do so on your terms, taking back a nice chunk of the prize fund all to yourself. Afterall...you have deserved it to even get this far.

Or you can let nature take its course, let the best man or woman win and make it into the finals. Its all about pride and honour, I can understand that. Who wants to be known as the fighter who walked away from a potential spot in the final just to take a cut of the winnings?

However.

If one fight decides to walk away and one decides to proceed, then that one fighter who walks away takes away the contents of their briefcase. That is their money, and it is subtracted from the prize fund. Real money. $28.

Of course, if both fighters refuse to walk away then the fight will be decided by the voting public.

If both fighters in a fight wish to quit and take the money, neither will, and your fates will be decided by chance. In a casino? Imagine that. The fight will be decided by the voting of the 2nd, 7th, and 11th votes. How good are you at rolling the dice?

Fighters competing in this round are NOT allowed to vote. They must note me with their decision ASAP.

May lady luck be with you...

Deadline
Sunday 10th June


Character References
All character references can be found in the following journal:
[link]


Round 1 - [link] [link]
Round 2 - [link]
Round 3 - [link]
Round 4 - [link]

Winners announced, see you all in the Semi-Finals!

Round 3 was one hell of a battle! The competition is getting harder, the decision making is getting tougher, with practically nothing between the votes! Now that we are officially in the quarter final stages, there is no slipping up now! You cannot afford to make any mistakes, slack off or get an art block...the prize is within your grasp.

I dont envy the pressure these guys are under, so enough talk, let's get Round 4 underway!

Round 4
Do you have the balls?

Man, you have been put through the ringer this tournament, from one bizarre event to another. After beating your opponent, a blinding bright light covers the world, followed by silence and nothingness. Your eyes stinging, feeling a bit dizzy, you re-establish yourself and your surroundings. Luckily, your battered and aged bodies are returned to their youthful and spry figures, the only scars you have are memories from that bleak and dire alternate future. But let's not dwell on past events...or future ones...you are returned back to the present, ready and waiting for the next bizarre theme.

You are in some sort of sports arena...sort of like a Colosseum. Oh, this old trick? The classic Colosseum event that has spawned such classic fights in Dollar Fighter and AFL history. While this arena is a lot more modern looking than an ancient roman battle theatre, the feeling is the same. Thousands of people watching over you, screaming your names, chanting for violence. You catch a glimpse of yourself on the massive jumbo video tron, of course, nothing understated in Dollar Fighter. But it seems for once, Simone is taking her foot off the gas with a less crazy, extreme event. About time.

"Ladies & Gentlemen..."

You hear her voice echoing throughout the stadium from the loud PA system speakers. Suddenly you see her, Simone, appearing from a platform raising from the ground.

"I certainly hope you are liking what your are seeing so far in Dollar Fighter 3."

The crowd pop in enthusiastic cheers.

"Now we are in the Quarter Final stages, with each fighter carrying around $1,440,000, I thought it would be suitable to put on a public show."

The crowd cheers again as the fighters stare at each other from across the arena, ready to put on a show, ready to fight a good fight not just for the audience, but to make a statement to every other competitor in the tournament. They are ready to go, ready to slug it out until there is only one winner...

"But...."

Simone interrupts.

"This is MY tournament, and we don't want to watch any ol' boring fight now do we?"

The crowd boo, feeding off every word. The fighters are confused, what the hell can be different while fighting in an arena like this?

"I believe, for the first time ever in Dollar Fighter history...I am going to make things interesting...with each fighter having a partner to accompany them in this fight!"

The crowd go crazy! What the hell is happening?! When was this a rule?

"And this being MY tournament, I don't want to see a team of just any ol' fighters. No. This is a special arena, that can change and adapt to mimic natural environments, and I want these fighters to team with something that can take advantage of these elemental differences. Maybe it's better if I show you what the Dollar Fighters will be teaming with!"

Simone smiles wryly and the audience are on the edge of their seats screaming with excitement. The fighters look on, still confused, watching her actions intently. From behind her back she presents in her hand, two spherical objects, two tone in colour, half red, half white, hard to make out with the light reflecting off them. What does this mean?

"Ladies and gentlemen, I present to you, the team mates of the Dollar Fighters in Round 4...Pokemon!"

You are stunned, silenced, dumbstruck as the arena go crazy, screaming the roof off. The noise doesn't quite register as you try to come to terms with this. Is this happening? Are you really going to fight with Pokemon? Really?

And then the crowd answer your question...

"Fuuuuuuuck Yeah!!!!"





You are fighting in a Pokemon arena...with Pokemon! The arena is much like a modern sports stadium filled with an audience and special giant video screens to show close ups of the events and display statistics of the fight. The squared fighting arena itself is adaptable, and can change into rocks, rivers, trees, fire...all contained in that large fighting field, while nothing obstructs the view from the audience. The Pokemon you have been given is to best reflect your character and their personality or abilities so that it can form the best bond with you as possible. This is more of a tag team event, with you and your pokemon battling your opponent, and not just a normal pokemon fight. Don't forget, while the circumstances are ridiculous, you are still carrying $1.4million in your cases, the prize is still serious!

Update
pulled out of this round, so he is being replaced last minute by his last round opponents

Round 4

1. Vs
WINNER -

2. Vs
WINNER -

3. Vs
WINNER -

4. Vs
WINNER -


Deadline
Sunday 3rd June

References
Since some people may not be as familiar with Pokemon as I thought, here are some links:
Anime - [link]
Pics of all Pokemon Sprites - [link]
Stats of all Pokemon - [link]

Google and dA are your friends on this...shitloads of fanart.
[link] [link] [link] [link]




Character References
All character references can be found in the following journal:
[link]


Round 1 - [link] [link]
Round 2 - [link]
Round 3 - [link]

Just when you think it couldnt get any closer, Round 3 happens!

Everyone did a great job, so good, that a lot of results were literally decided 51%-49%, it really was THAT close! I am telling you now, if you are humble and voting for your opponent...it WILL cost you the fight the way these votes are happening! I have checked and double checked...and I dont mean to sound dramatic, these were close. VERY close.

Anyway, I doubt many people will read this bit, you'll just scroll to the results anyway, so if you have been reading, thank you, and scroll on...


A lot of fighters are very lucky to be here, in Round 3. As each round eliminates fighter, the contest is getting tighter and tighter, and nobody can afford to slip up. Are you guys ready for Round 3? Well let's get the show underway!

Round 3
Mein Future

Fighting inside a whale was as disgusting as it sounds. Fortunately round 3 is a lot nicer although the way the fighters had to exit round 2, well, I will not go into any graphic descriptions, but there really is only one exit after being swallowed by a giant whale.

However, upon exiting this magical creature, you are transported through some sort of weird worm hole. Flying through a tunnel of colour and light, you get spat out at the other end of the worm hole feeling strange. Of course, worm hole travel isn't known for its level of comfort, but you feel weaker, slower, like you have been zapped of energy.

Before you get a moment to understand what has happened, you hear a whistling from the above as a missile hurtles its away past your head, exploding against a nearby building creating a confetti of flame and stone. You notice the skies are filled with grey clouds, illuminated by the odd explosion of light. You look all around you, and witness you are in a city destroyed, buildings ruined, the streets torched with fire. People, soldiers...fighting. Wherever you are, you have been dropped into a warzone!

And then it hits you. You look down at your hands, and catch a glimpse of a reflection on some broken shards of glass. The person you see looks like you, but distorted, different, and not just because of the fragmented mirror image.

You've aged.

You have travelled into the future, and feel each and every year you have advanced. You look up and see a billboard, with Simone, the Dollar Fighter host's face on it in military uniform, reminiscent to propaganda war posters. She hasnt aged a bit. It reads:

"Welcome to the future, 25 years on in an alternate universe.

They say wine improves with age. You had better hope your fighting skills do too!"

And that is that. You are 25 years older, fighting in a bleak future warzone. The quicker you get this one over with the better!


You are fighting in the future! You have aged 25 years, and have been thrust into a city battlefield. Your uniforms can be adapted to look more futuristic. Your mission is the same though, protect your briefcases, now at the value of $720,000, and make sure you get your opponents case, and get the hell out of there!



Round 3

1. Vs
WINNER -


2. Vs
WINNER -


3. Vs
WINNER -


4. Vs
WINNER -


5. Vs
WINNER -


6. Vs
WINNER -


7. Vs
WINNER -


8. Vs
WINNER -


Stay tuned for the announcement of Round 4 shortly!

Deadline
Sunday 27th May



Character References
All character references can be found in the following journal:
[link]


Round 1 - [link] [link]
Round 2 - [link]

The $8 commissions are closed, until I finish the full queue of 8 anyway. I may increase the price next time though. Spending longer on these because I want them to look good. ^_^

SuperDude dates are ongoing for $15 for whoever wants them.

Hey guys.

While I am unemployed and bored waiting to update the Dollar Fighter journals, I'll open up some commissions on the cheap if anyone wants them.

Gonna limit them to just 8 for the time being, see how that goes.
Just something simple with no background, or not a complicated one anyway.

Examples:




Also, SuperDude, the hussy, is open to escort anyone on a date for $15.
For that you get a (hopefully funny) comicstrip with your character and SuperDude.



I'm lonely, bored and need money....

Thanks for reading.

Queue
1. Slamma13 - Done


2. DoctorVorlon - Done


3. TheDude255 - Done


4. RedWingsDragon - Done


5. Macattackroductions - Done


6. TheMonsterFink - Awaiting Payment
7. Velthice - WIP

8. Dangerfan - Done


SuperDude Dates
1. Mattkind - WIP