Our most current game platform is the N64, but that is my son's
exclusive property and resides in his room.

The computer is shared, and getting another one, and another line (or
DSL on a network) is a bit costly for the family right now. So, a
game platform for the TV is just the ticket for when someone else is
playing EQ, or satisfying their email and surfing habit.

Why Gamecube? Metroid Prime. Love the Metroid franchise. Don't mind
some of the cute (Mario, StarFox) games, either. Some are quite
playable, and often very good as far as gaming.

I just wonder how much more money I can scrape together for endless
computer upgrades. Bottom line comes to at least $1700 to get current
with the specs for EQ, and a little bit ahead as well. I just don't
know where I can get that money right now.

So, a cheaper alternative is the platform system. All things
considered, upgrades for that every few years will still be cheaper
than the big bucks I need for the computer.

But the games, while good, are not the same.

The up side is that there is much in the EQ world I can continue to
explore and enjoy even without the upgrades. I find the lag in Luclin
and POP to be a bit anoying, but acceptable for all but heavy combat.
My son will do battle even with the lag, but I avoid it. I find the
lag to be too distracting.

I can quest there, use the bazaar, and transport system for my non-
druid alts. Plus, I have only just begun in Velious. Still lots to do.

May just get lucky with a lottery ticket one day. Then a nice botique
machine would be mine.

In case I don't get back on before the big day, Merry Christmas and
Happy Holidays to all. I really appreciate the EQ community, and this
group in particular.

Barto Proudfoot