Vanguard is happy to announce we will be opening an Horizon team for Diablo III shortly. As a Horizon Team we will be able to recruit new members and evaluate Diablo III as a possible TAW game. We are currently looking for someone with leadership experience to serve as the Team Leader, if you or someone you know is interested please contact Hook or Kingcheese for more information.
We hope to focus on the games 4 man cooperative play as the base for team organization and structure. This will be new territory for TAW but as always we will put our best foot forward and lead the way in the Diablo III community. If any gaming community can pull this off, TAW is the one.
Diablo III Game Guide
Diablo III Collector's Edition
Diablo III Videos
Release Date: May 15, 2012
Thanks
Hook
Vanguard Command
Let’s start by telling everyone a little about you,
Well my name is Kyle or azreal in game. I am a platoon leader and the guild leader for the empire side of the swtor division.
What might someone be surprised to know about you?
People may find it surprising that I'm an avid knitter. Haha, seriously though I am a huge vinyl record addict and comic book geek.
Do you have any special hobbies or activities outside of online gaming/TAW?
The only hobby I currently have aside from online gaming with TAW and my previously stated addictions is building computers.
Star Wars The Old Republic isn't a game where gaming clans are seen as an integral part of the community. What made you decide to join up with TAW in a game where the majority of players are without a clan?
I used to run a guild for my friends and some of them joined a raid with taw members, after doing so they spoke to me about joining TAW and just have the entire guild absorbed. When we did eventually move everybody into TAW it turned out to be an amazing move.
You have been with TAW for awhile now. What are some of the differences you have seen that separate the different units in SWTOR?
The only thing that separates the 2 units of swtor is the faction choice between republic or empire, that being said both factions get along well and often join the same channels to help each other. I've been a huge star wars nerd since I can remember and I've played almost every single SW game ever made including SWG for a while.
Are there any other games that you occupy your time with outside of SWTOR?
Well I have a lot of games that I have on the go, roughly 200gb worth. However my most played and anticipated games are diablo 3, guild wars 2, and firefall.
What has been the number one thing about the [SW] division that has kept you coming back to play with TAW?
The people in TAW are the reason I keep playing, I've met some incredibly nice players and had the pleasure of playing swtor with them on multiple occasions. Communication and activity.
Every member believes his or her division is top dog in TAW, what do you feel sets [SW] apart from the rest of the communities' divisions?
The officers of the swtor division are dedicated to making everybody feel welcome and informed at our meetings.
Any parting comments or things you would like to add about [SW] for other TAW members?
We have people online and in TS at all times, I encourage anybody thinking about playing swtor to come in team speak with us and we would be glad to help you get started! We're a newer division but yet we have accomplished a lot, so I see great things in the future for our division. We have completed all raid content including the new operation (denova) and have done it with great success since day one. We are very dedicated to getting all raid content done as well as having a fun time doing so.
1. What might someone be surprised to know about you?
After the Marines, I started my own Bail Bond and vehicle recovery business, still licensed I WA State today. I have obtained over 768Fugitive arrests. I am currently a Licensed and authorized Washington State Field operations trainer for Bail Bond recovery agents, as well as some minor field operations tactics for city police departments.
2. Do you have any special hobbies or activities outside of online gaming/TAW?
Friends, family are my life; however I do have time for some Karaoke, and production of Industrial tech/electronica music on the side.
3. Star Wars isn't necessarily a game where gaming clans are seen as an integral part of the community. What made you decide to join up with TAW in a game where the majority of players are without a clan?
Community and friendship. Players join MMO’s for various reasons, and the most common is to play with others. The major aspect of an MMO is that fact it’s a Massive Multiplayer Online game. And Massive is just that… “MASSIVE”. Finding players isn’t hard, and you get to have a chance to play with them through a PUG (Pick up Group). This is an excellent way to see how they play, react with others, and overall gain knowledge of who they are. This is integral to building any Unit in TAW, and is important to help determine if they would be a great fit with us.
4. You have been with TAW for a while and were a part of the spin up. What are some of the differences you have seen that separate the different units in SW?
Well this is an interesting question. To my knowledge; we are the first MMO Division in TAW that have taken steps to play as two opposing factions in one game uniting them in TAW under one command (Empire of TAW & Republic of TAW). Like RTS and FPS games that we have in our other divisions, competition is there and the competitive spirit is raised through our members. However, in the end debriefs are held and constructive advice and criticism is given to those who seek it.
With the SW Division we have a wider spectrum of diversity. Empire & Republic two separate in game factions. It’s quite impressive when we meet in game showing our numbers. This also allows for members to play both sides with a common ground and interest.
Our player base also separates us. Everybody brings something to the table, from whimsical humor to a serious gameplay attitude. Not saying the other divisions don’t have this, but in an MMO, your personality carries over to the in game characters at times.
5. Where you a Star Wars player from the old days or did you start with SWTOR?
Yes, I played SWG (Star Wars Galaxies) for a couple of years actually, amidst other MMOs.
6. Are there any other games that you occupy your time with outside of SWTOR?
I play League of Legends though I am not too good at it, also World of Tanks now and then just to blow things up. Mostly if I am not on SWTORI am either doing other things or engrossed in Dragon Age.
7. What has been the number one thing about the SW division that has kept you coming back to play with TAW?
Though we have hit a few rough spots since the spin up, we have solid members that will pretty much bend over backwards to help others. Not only this, but I enjoy seeing and helping others grow within the game and reaching their own goals and accomplishments. This helps members leave after a session knowing that they did their part within our community.
Potential also drives me every time I log back in to TeamSpeak. Our division has the potential to become one of the best divisions in TAW. Our name is expanding and each member is doing their part well. As I every game, clicks form, but we have started to avoid that by involving all members into a cohesive bond together.
8. Every member believes his or her division is top dog in TAW, what do you feel sets SW apart from the rest of the clan’s divisions?
Momentum and balance. Our current leaders and members are what set us aside from the other divisions. Each one brings a different attitude and skill set to us. Sure, sometimes our heads collide, but there’s always a resolution on subject matters pertaining to TAW and we respect each other. I have high respect for which we have chosen for the leadership roles, and membership. Still being a new division, I know it is our members that will keep setting us apart.
As an MMO, the game is about players that play at random times, and have random goals each time they play. It is operational 24/7, and can change at a moments notice. Unlike the FPS and RTS, it’s not about logging in for an hour or two just to shoot and kill other players; it is about forming alliances, Building your character from the ground up, and evolving with the story line, and friendships.
This creates a dedication from its players and our members that when we log in to team speak we know something big could happen at any time, and it should be looked forward to. Our members have been playing the game and actually feeling worth as a member, as being part of TAW. This is due to the fact that each time you log in and team up with other TAW members, a new adventure can happen. Whether it’s in PVP or running through to the end of a quest, boss kills, or end game content. Each TAW member can choose whether or not they want to PVP or PVE for that game session and not be forced into situations they don’t want to be in.
The MMO world is forever changing with so many different variables that it’s not always the same. One moment you could be killing the biggest threat in PVE, Ranking in the PVP, or defending lower levels from enemy players. This drives our members to rally together and set forth accomplishments and recognition, along with a team spirit and not individualism.
9. Any parting comments or things you would like to add about SW for other TAW members?
This game has everything from a dynamic quest lines unique to each individual class, epic pvp and pve moments, and a great potential for new players. The voice overs are amazing, every NPC you speak to will have a voice over bringing them to life. Starting new in SWTOR is so unique, that as a player, you will be immersed in the SW universe. Eventually your actions and responses to quest lines will affect the endgame storylines as well as draw emotions and cause you to stand up in awe, or fight harder with anger at the drawing power of the storylines immense emotional take.
If you like to gather and craft, this game has it all. It allows players to have companions, as well as have them gather/craft for you if you are online or not. Companions are also an integral part for campaigning during solo missions and with others doing Heroic areas and flashpoints. They also have a story line of their own you may choose to follow and assist them with their own quests.
Come down and visit us at any time, and even join us for the free weekend trials that SW has. We would be more than happy to help you along the way.
10. What does the future hold for your division?
Well as the NA Bn CO, a lot of plans are in the horizon to produce more member involvement and a little more competitive spirit. Our Division will continue to grow, and gain momentum. With this, Both the Empire and Republic platoons will be recognized, and rewarded on their own perspective.
Our clan sponsored special events are starting to happen server wide. As we gather, people will take notice. (A large group of players with the same guild tags are hard to miss as they run past.)
11. Has it been difficult obtaining the number of raid content that your division has done in such a short period of time?
The raid content was accomplished by our dedicated members and perseverance. A few of our members were around since beta, and have learned the secrets of raiding, thus enabling leadership within TAW as raid leaders.
New recruits are shuffling in filling up the ranks. Dedicated players also contribute greatly, as they provide the willingness to learn and press forward with such passion and aggression, that hard modes and nightmare modes are taking hold.
For those who missed it or haven't checked their email yet, the latest issue of From The Battlefield has arrived. It tells the story of one of TAW's most successful divisions.
A division that recruited many including myself, into TAW's ranks.
The edition also has the latest TAW Tactical Briefing from Xenokilla.
Click Here to View From The Battlefield - Quake Wars
Be sure to Subscribe to the TAW Newsletter after your done.
Also, to get a scope of what Quake Wars has brought to our great community, here is a list of notable past & present day members that originated from Quake Wars.
Hook - Former Commander-in-Chief
Bravehardt - Army Commander
Feanor - Former Vanguard Commander
Large Format - Former BF3 Division Commander
Rinko - Former BF3 Field Specialist
Dogstar - 2nd Corps Commander
Ekis - Nuclear Dawn Division Commander
Kingcheese - Vanguard Lt. Commander
DirtyDozen - Nuclear Dawn Division Officer
Wiemauler - 1st Corps Lt. Commander
We salute its 5 Year mark as a Division and look forward to to its continued success in the future.
Also be sure to wish DeadXOn a Happy Birthday who turns 27 today :P
9PM EST Open Bunker night in "Cutting Edge" channel open bunker night for spinning, mix on your table top or sing on the microphone come take part grab a beer and have an exiting evening with your TAW army fellow Men & Ladies. Come on down!
Hosted by Bamsen [OS] & Gant [OS]
The TAW Cast crew got together for the second edition of their TAW Tactical Briefing, This time, Xenokilla and Timelordx were joined by Skatcat, Shmeecow and Pwnstarlol to cover PC gaming news, gaming hardware reviews, and mobile device breakdowns.
Also, The latest edition of the TAW newsletter has been released. Be Sure to Subscribe to recieve it in your email.
FromTheBattlefield Newsletter - Progression
Until Next Time!
Welcome to the first episode of the bi-weekly series of the TAW Tactical Briefing.
This week your hosts Xenokilla, and Timelordx welcome ShmeeCow and Pwnstarlols to talk about Star Wars: The Old Republic, Windows 8, new graphics cards and the best gaming cpu's for your money.
If you have a topic that you would like discussed please email Xenokilla.
The TAW OS division has always had a mission to bring stories and experiences from the many and varied divisions of TAW to the forefront where all of our brothers and sisters can share in them. In the past we have interviewed spin up leaders bringing new games to TAW, successful Division Commanders who build mighty armies to dominate those games, and even the Commander in Chief of TAW himself so that our members could feel closer to their leaders. Now, OS has decided to focus on a more, personal, aspect of TAW: the rank and file players themselves. The members who see each other every night to share their laughs, their adventures, their victories, and their defeats. In short, we want to give the members of TAW to get to know not just the big wigs and the shot callers, but the players who are the reason we log in to see everyday.
Players like Sabath, a Team Leader and Master Gunnery Sergeant with TAW's AO division, is just such a player. When OS asked the Age of Conan division to recommend the player who best represents what it means to be a member of the AO family, his name came up almost immediately. For almost a year and a half, Sabath has moved up the ranks playing side by side with his TAW brothers and sisters making fast friends of old and new members alike. QuinoaAOC caught up with Sabath for a few questions about his experiences in AO and in TAW, as well as a little about the man many players look forward to seeing each day when they sign in to play Age of Conan.
How would someone you know describe you?
Easy going, happy and kind of funny guy, (I hope)
I have (though slightly out of date) black belt in Rae Tai Kwan Do
Do you have any special hobbies or activities outside of online gaming withTAW?
I play guitar and have many sporting interests.
What was your first impression of TAW?
It's a quite well organized and large community.
Tell me how you first got involved in with TAW . . .Thinking back, what drew you to TAW?
I was in a guild called The Dark Nights, they were crumbling, a friend joined TAW and that’s how it began.
What's your first memory of something related to TAW?
Oh I think it’s the Ridgewalker (the TAW colonel responsible for AO spin-up), LoL.
Tell me about someone who has influenced your decision to play with TAW?
I can’t really single any person out there are lots of good guys and girls in TAW.
Tell me about some of the people you've met while playing in TAW?
Well I’ve mentioned Ridge he’s a wealth of knowledge regarding the game. Booklet (AO DC) is a funny guy who takes my ribbing in good humor. Yoshie (AO CO) and Q (QuinoaAOC) are good guys to talk to and Hottshots (AO SO) is a favorite, we always have a good laugh in our tells. Hottskull (AO DI) is close real life friend who lives around the corner, but I don’t like him in the game, LoL.
Why are you supporting the TAW as opposed to other groups working against TAW?
Well TAW has done ok by me, so I like to do the right thing and support my guild and guild mates.
What are the best and worst things to happen since you started with TAW?
Nothing too major. We lost our battle keep, that wasn’t great, but we have a better one now and we have been able to defend it and that is great.
What has surprised you most about TAW?
TAW stands its ground and keeps it together while most other guilds fade away.
What do you find most challenging about TAW?
Booklet! LoL. No, no issues.
If you could change one thing about TAW, what would it be?
Nothing.
What's your personal philosophy on what should be done to improve your division or TAW as a whole?
The only thing I would change is our recruiting. I think we allow people to join our fine guild too easily. Not so much new players, give them a chance. More so players who jump from guild to guild constantly. I wouldn’t accept any of them.
Does the interest in the AO division of TAW seems to be growing or waning? Why do you think that is?
Growing, partly as we have a battle keep but also as we are doing well, are easy to get along with, and we are strong.
What do you think will change about TAW over the next five years?
Oh, I hope not too much. I find TAW has been a great guild to play for.
As a member of TAW what sorts of trends do you see?
I see a solid core that has been growing steadily.
What do you feel other divisions could learn from AO?
Well it’s hard to say as I spend no time with the other divisions at the moment, but I do know the AO guys are way cooler and better looking than the rest.
Any parting comments or things you would like to add about your division for other TAW members?
TAW: Excellent guild.
We are adding another Cutting Edge Program! Now Cutting Edge will be Friday and Saturday... same bat time same bat channel, So we have a chance to get the Europe members involved. Friday 9-10PM EST
Saturday 9-10PM EST In Cutting Edge Channel/TAW Media & Social
Join us
Keep your eyes open for TAW Shop Deux. TAW Shop Deux is a CUSTOM TAW Shop where we will offer very custom products made with your name, tournament name etc..
Rumor has it that Custom DogTags will be the first product launched!
[ TAW Shop Deux is in ADDITION to the great products found in our current shop ]
Koto, the Assistant Spin-Up Leader for Vanguard's TA division, has been diligently working to help build TA into a viable division for the players of Tribes: Assend. QuinoaAOC had a chance to catch up with Koto and discuss his plans for the future and his past experiences as a member of TAW.
The Leap Year Edition is out! Grab a copy of the TAW Newsletter.
The main purpose and goal of the TAWShop has always been to help promote the TAW brand and to provide a platform that helps TAW give something back to the members who contribute to it. We mainly focused on providing t-shirts for TAW & it’s divisions. Some of the challenges we faced were finding ways to promote the shop and getting legit designs to use on the shirts.Making & getting quality designs is a huge challenge for us. It is very difficult to promote a division based design due to copyright laws. We’ve been more successful with TAW Logo merchandise than anything else. The TAW Camo design shirts of the old logo made up for more than half of the shops overall sales.We chose Spreadshirt because it offered a modest selection at a very reasonable price for members. The shop & apparel customization it offered is also top-notch compared to other vendors.Spreadshirt, although great does not allow any room for expansion. 90% of the products they offer are wearable items like t-shirts & hats. Their speciality selection like cups, stickers, keychains and etc are very limited or non-existent.This is why I felt it was necessary to switch to a more robust vendor. I wanted to offer the community more than just t-shirts and hats. I was also looking for a place to consolidate both shops into one. As you can imagine, managing one shop is hard enough, but having to manage both an American version and European version can get very time consuming for one person.In addition to t-shirts and hats, through Cafepress we will be able to provide more unique products to members such as stickers, laptop cases, keychains, coffee mugs and more... We also be able to provide special promotions and discounts. I am confident in the direction we are taking the new TAWShop. The goals of TAWShop will remain the same and we will continue to provide a platform for promoting TAW and giving back to the community.LTC DeadXOnTAW Media Division Officer.
This week we set our scope on the newest CIC of TAW, General Icarus. Get to know our new Commander-In-Chief in the questions below.
Thinking back, what drew you to TAW?
I joined TAW back when we were playing Far Cry. I really liked the military theme and the teamwork that TAW brought. I started playing with Gemini squad and I was hooked!
I am an avid reader and movie watcher. Most of my free time outside of TAW is spent with my girlfriend or volunteering. I support an after school program at one of the local high schools.
What are the goals you are still working toward?
I am working closely with Central Command on some new projects and reaching my goals as CIC. TAW will be hearing more soon...
Tell me how you first got involved in with TAW . . .
I started in TAW in college when I got into online gaming. I just fell into it and found a TAW server. I checked out the website and was impressed.
Well organized and a little intimidating. We have gotten better on both accounts I think!
What has surprised you most about working with TAW?
Despite all the difficulties that we have had getting to this point as an organization, I continue to be impressed by how well things have gone. That is a testament to all the leaders of TAW!
I don't mean for this to sound cynical, but there are a lot of issues that go on behind the scenes that I get to deal with. They are usually ones that are a big deal. I use my team and we work together to fix the problems. I don't try to handle them myself.
What's the best/worst thing to happen since you started working with TAW?
Worst was making the tough call as a DC to start division drafts. I lost half my team over it, but I don't regret it. It needed to happen. Best was launching the new website. It was a culmination of 5 years of work!
When you last volunteered, made a donation, etc., how did that make you feel
I always enjoy the feeling. Both inside and outside of TAW, any time you help someone you always feel great.
HAHA, as CIC I can! But seriously, I think folks noticed that TAW didn't get turned upside down when the office changed. That is because TAW runs well and we have great leaders. My goal is to refine that process, not make big changes.
What do you wish other people knew about TAW?
How much fun it can be to join a structured group. That and the opportunity to be a leader. There are not many groups out there that so readily hand over the reigns
Tell us about some of the people you've met while working on TAW?
I have met friends for life. I went to one friends wedding, and I talk with many others on the phone all the time. There is no better way to meet people from all around the World!
What's your personal philosophy on what should be done about TAW?
I think that TAW needs to continue to improve to remain the best online gaming clan in the World. We have 1300 members with over 90% active at any time. What other gaming group can say that?
Most folks seemed surprised to learn that I am 28 years old. I will be 29 on Saturday the 18th.
The interest in TAW seems to be growing. Why do you think that is?
I think we are doing a lot of things right. We have a solid community and we are staying active in the new games that are coming out.
Thank You Icarus, For taking the time to answer our questions. Icarus will be awarded the In-The-Scope Member tab for his contribution.
Q1: For the readers, can you please state your name, rank and current function within TAW.Feanor, Major General, Vanguard CommanderQ2: We have all heard about Tribes: Ascend. Why did you choose this specific game for TAW.