Newgrounds.com — Everything, By Everyone.

I found this to be more important than the actual promotion of Awesome Compilation 5, so I saved my front page news post this week for this particular entry.

First of all, if you're reading this, you've obviously in some way seen some of the "Awesome" movies I've put out. Whether or not you like them, I'd like to thank you. It is you guys, both fans and non-fans alike that keep me animating, because it is you who give me motivation to continue.

Let me tell you a little bit about this Awesome Compilation series first. This is a series of shorts I was asked to create for MTV's G-Hole, and online video game show. I was given no distribution rights, and while I had no problem with this at first, I soon realized I really wanted fans of Metal Gear Awesome to be able to easily check out these shorts I was making. Eventually after plenty of begging, pleading, and loopholing, I worked out a deal where I could submit these shorts three at a time around the internet. Thus came the Awesome Compilation.

For the record, every movie has already been made. Since the first Awesome Compilation was released, all of the movies up to Compilation 6 (the final installment) were finished. I appreciate all of the suggestions for new movies, I really do, but they don't affect what's coming out, it's all been decided.

After Awesome Compilation 6, I was contemplating whether or not I was going to continue the series to 7 and beyond, meaning I would have to make new shorts every month. This was hard for me to decide on because I was working a full time job among other obligations, and while I would have liked to do this, I simply had absolutely no time, which is why some of the compilations were late in coming out.

After thinking about it long and hard, reading through reviews, reading and answering fans' PMs, and talking to fans, I've decided that this series has got to end.

I feel that my interest in flash and my dedication to the field of animation has grown far beyond making a couple dumb shorts for some quick laughs. The entire concept of the series is based off of laziness and mediocrity, and while I do put a lot of work into trying to make these shorts as funny as possible, everything else is just an after thought. I'm not going to lie. Now that I've had time to go through and revisit my animations, the further into the series I get the more disgusted I become.

That's not to say I don't enjoy the series, I still get laughs out of some of the bits, but I know that I can do and achieve way more than this.

Basically, I feel that this series is holding me back from exploring my ideas for new and exciting movies and shorts that use my own characters and my own stories. While I am always keen on pleasing the fans, there's a point where you have to draw the line and realize what's truly important to you and your creative advancement.

So, after Awesome Compilation Volume 6 and the finale to the Awesome series, I am laying the series to rest. I have tons of ideas for further parody video games, which I am working into my own little pet project right now. Why not just up the quality of the Awesome series? Well, I'm a huge purist, and I believe how something ends should not be too far of a cry from how it began. I want fans to be able to say that they are a fan of the whole Awesome series, not just the point where it started getting good, or whatever.

But don't be afraid, Awesome fans, while the series will end, one of my series ideas will harken to the style of humor as well as parody video games. I assure you it will be something that will not disappoint. Some might like it, and some might not, and that's really the beauty of entertainment. We learn and grow from each other's tastes, opinions, and advice. I love getting a variety of feedback. You have no idea how elated I am to simply not have a unanimously voted "best" Awesome Compilation. I've had people say Volume 4 is the best, and some say that 4 is actually the weakest, and there really is no gaping consistency in opinion, and that's what I love to see. I love seeing fan movies and I love seeing movies that totally mock me, like the hilarious movie How 2 Succeed on Newgrounds. On either end of the spectrum it's doing the same thing, inspiring people to get up and actually make these productions and put them out there. Whatever it is you're making, making it is always better than not making it.

You can't really please everyone, and I don't strive to do so, because I know that I never will, but I know that I can please myself, and I know that some of you are going to enjoy what it is I create in order to do that. And if not? Then oh well, I'm still going to do what I love doing, and there ain't a godamn thing anybody can do about it.

Thanks for being fans, guys, I will always try to keep entertaining you in some way.

Log in to comment! | Share this!

The People Have Spoken

158 Comments

Nov. 20, 2007 | 4:35 AM mike-cuzins says:

Well, if i can kick in anyway i'd be honored. haha, nah goodluck with life n shit.

Nov. 20, 2007 | 5:05 AM greamer22 says:

i think that you should end the series im a huge fan, but ever since compilation 2 youve started to lose it

Nov. 20, 2007 | 5:14 AM CameronClunes says:

It's the same sorts of jokes over and over, since Metal Gear Awesome no new ground has really been broken - I'm not having a go, I'm sure you know this, it's partially what this post is about. You're a funny guy and I like your work but I'd much prefer to see you do something with different humour, just to see how it goes. I'd always find a glorious failure more interesting to watch than a repetitious, derivative, incestuous series.

Nov. 20, 2007 | 5:25 AM Egoraptor responds:

I agree, really. I'm working on three different comedy related projects, all very different in style, so hopefully you'll get a kick out of at least one of them.

Nov. 20, 2007 | 5:29 AM RubberNinja says:

Yeah I remember you telling me you felt like ending it a while back. Fair enough though! I understand.

I can't wait to see your newer stuff.. Some of those things you showed me.. Character designs and all that.. They're just freaking awesome. Good luck man!

Nov. 20, 2007 | 7:35 AM pitsniffer says:

I was half way through writing a comment about how i aplaud your efforts to venture into new territory but at the end of the day as long as your enjoying what your doing, thats all that matters.

The only matter is that you question yourself every now and then that question, and as long as the answer is yes your doing the right thing.

Heavily looking forward to your next projects.

Nov. 20, 2007 | 7:41 AM andythehedgehog says:

but i still can,t wait for awesome halloween 2 and your secret flash. i dont know what it is, am i retarded or am i missing something?

Nov. 20, 2007 | 7:51 AM ace-of-blades says:

Well hey, as long as you don't completely quit making some sweet flash for us I don't think many people should make a big fuss out of the compilations finishing.
:D

Nov. 20, 2007 | 8:30 AM LazyMuffin says:

STAY TRUE HOMEBOY.

Nov. 20, 2007 | 10:13 AM Bailstuh says:

i dont even have words to ..... but how will i survive without my fix of awsome?!
what will i do to my kids will i beat them?! i i just dont know?!!!

but really thanks for kicking ass! you inspired me to start flashing it up, when i saw that you could make three flashs into one with goodish animation i was all like hey i could do that!
then i got flash pro 9 and i have put out 2! yahhhh however now im done fooling around my next submission will fock the flash community!!!bwhahahahahaha!!

Nov. 20, 2007 | 10:32 AM Sir-Nuts says:

You can't finish the series without doing a PinbAwesome (Pinball + Awesome)!!

Nov. 20, 2007 | 12:47 PM Lambinvoker says:

Congratulations. You've been bumped back up on my respect list, which is, frankly, a very difficult thing to do. You are, however, still on probation. I await your little pet project. I do hope you will eventually attempt non-video game related content at some point in your animation career.

Nov. 20, 2007 | 2:28 PM Egoraptor responds:

Non video game related content is certainly coming, but a lot of people need to understand that video games play a huge part in my life and my creativeness, and I'm largely inspired by video games and video game concepts artistically. My favorite artists are artists for video games, my favorite characters are video game characters, etc. People seem to think that because I am largely inspired by video games, I'm trying to manipulate the Newgrounds community by using something popular to get a lot of pageviews, which is simply not true. Were this community not into video games at all I'd still be doing the same stuff I do.

The next project I plan to work on is video game related, but it does not use any licenses and it's story driven. Of course you'll get the references, it's a parody, but it won't be Mario hopping around on Goombas and saying "fuck" every now and then. One of the other projects is a movie I wanted to do in order to practice music syncing with a high framerate, which is also based off of an original video game concept, but there are no references to the video game world, it's its own self-sufficient universe.

There are a huge number of projects I have planned that have just been building up inside my mind and in my notebooks and on Wordpad that are not video game related at all. It's just a matter of deciding which ones I want to pursue first.

Nov. 20, 2007 | 12:58 PM CBnator says:

I liked all of your submissions and it didnt bother me that they had a not so good quality because the most important thing were the jokes or face expressions.
I think I will like everything what u do in future because ur really awesome(ur favourite word xD)
Im looking forward to enjoy whatever u do in future

PS: I watch Metal Gear Awesome nearly every day once^^

Nov. 20, 2007 | 2:43 PM RPGamer says:

U go dude, I have seen great things from you, and plan to see greater, because although I love your Awesome compilation series "all of the episodes", if u keep making flash for us fans of ur work it would be enough for me, I'm behind u all the way "seriously look behind u". Well anyway seeing submissions have really awakened an interest in making some myself "to bad I suck at drawing :(". But nonetheless I believe in what u can do man.
keep it up and good luck in everything

Nov. 20, 2007 | 3:10 PM mystic8ball says:

So the series has almost come to an end

well it was a good run but no series , flash or otherwise can last forever.

the awesome series will always make me laugh but i think you are capable of so much more

seeing some of the artwork from your dA page i think moving on from the awesome series will only increase your skill as an animator.

best of luck in the future

Nov. 20, 2007 | 3:15 PM MarcusMaximillion says:

Regardless of the quality of animation, your awesome voice acting talent entertains the hell out of me. Keep up the great work, man!

Nov. 20, 2007 | 3:43 PM senior-twinki says:

I like your style of art, but after seeing your gallery on deviantart you can draw so much better, a mix between awesome humor and your great art style might make for a perfect cartoon.

Nov. 20, 2007 | 4:15 PM RabiesIsMe says:

First off I <3 you. =)

That said, I am a bit sad, if you'd check, you'd see that you are my favorite flash author on NG. This is because, I love every single thing you make. I think it's the humor, style and great voice acting put together, but whatever. It's all good.

Part of me is sad that you are going to quite the Awesome series, and part of me is excited that you are heading for bigger and better things to come. So basicly, you are going to quit this 'poorly drawn' style? Fine, even though I absolutely love it, in the end it's the humor that keeps me watching.

If you're too lazy to read all that crap, here's the jist of it: I support you. Keep making flash. I love you.

Nov. 20, 2007 | 4:33 PM stormcloud1 says:

NOOOOOOOO and YAAAAAY at the same time, I'm a huge fan of the awesome series and am understandably sad about its demise, but on the other hand I can't wait to see different stuff by you
WOOOO go Egoraptor for being so dammed great

Nov. 20, 2007 | 4:35 PM CtG says:

I love the awesome series, its amazing. Thankyou so much for it.

All good things must come to and end, Id much rather you end it well and I remember it as being an amazing funny thing rather then how it dragged off after number 6. The jokes are very funny, but they are going to get repetitive one day, and I hope that that day never comes as it will inevitably taint my memories of past awesome films.

Its going to be a sad good bye, but a happy hello to your new projects. Thanks youve made me laugh so much I feel I owe you.

Nov. 20, 2007 | 4:51 PM CommanderGravy says:

NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO

DAMN YOU MTV GHOLE PAY HIM DOUBLE WHAT HES EARNING NOW ITS WORTH EVERY PENNY!!!!!!!!!.

I understand that time is short when you have a job. Im going to miss this though but if you could please add two or three easter eggs like you usually do but make it hard to find and i mean HARD! Its one of the best things about it (but not the best) and even if you spend hours looking for them there always rewarding. So if you could please do this as its fun for us and rewarding for you.

Nov. 20, 2007 | 5:06 PM timewisard says:

Good Choice Egoraptor, but I still hope to see some movies out of you. Maybe not 3 shorts a month, but maybe a really long high quality movie that people will watch over... and over... and over...

Nov. 20, 2007 | 6:15 PM Magic-Waffle says:

I'm really glad to see you try to pursue different interests in flash. Don't get me wrong, I love your Awesome Compilations (in fact, every compilation you've made along with Metal Gear Awesome and An Awesome Halloween make up the first half of my fave list). But the fact that you want to pursue different ideas and interests is just as well, and I can't wait to see what you have in store. The Compilations have been epic, so I'm sure what you have in store will be even better.

Thanks for everything, from your number one fan. :D

Nov. 20, 2007 | 9:34 PM Sparky624 says:

You know, although you have made me laugh, it isn't a bad idea to start seriously. I like your idea of trying to get a kick start, and respect your decision with discontinuing the "Awesome Compilation Series". Your drawings a very good and it wouldn't be bad to even escape comedy for a while. You could make a "serious short", or some series of a story you've made up.

Then again, that's just me. I enjoy your comedy and will await the last Compilation. Have a nice nice. :)

Nov. 20, 2007 | 10:10 PM Cericon says:

Awesome Complation is one of the best series on NG. You should really be proud of yourself for making it dude. This one made me piss myself laughing man! Cant wait till Awesome CompliationVol 6.

Nov. 20, 2007 | 10:10 PM chickenleggz says:

you are the best thanks

Nov. 21, 2007 | 1:24 AM Jaresk says:

Well actually, after awhile near the beginning of the series, I wondered if you'd ever do something else. Not that I didn't like the Awesome series, but I like to see artists exploring new environments and I sincerely think you're the best artist in Newgrounds. So a new series from you would be awesome! (not in the same way).

This whole thing made me think, about making is better than not making... I always wanted to make Flashes but I always got discourage or something else would happen. Perhaps your push in my back is going to be "The Push" I needed.

Anyway, can't wait to see what surprise you have for everyone. Is it going to be good? Bad? I got my chips on good! Keep up the terrific work and may death be the only thing to stop you... Stay alive, please...

Nov. 21, 2007 | 10:43 AM Egoraptor responds:

Awesome fans will love the surprise!

Making is ALWAYS better than not making. If you want to make flashes, make them. If you show them to people, you're bound to get negative feedback, no matter WHAT you make, so don't let that discourage you. You should be able to do what you want, not what other people think they want.

Nov. 21, 2007 | 3:16 AM siddin says:

They are amazingly funny, but yeah, too much isn't good.
Thanks for the laughs, man!

Nov. 21, 2007 | 2:30 PM deal-with-it says:

The parody was just a joke, not an insult ;)

Nov. 21, 2007 | 2:33 PM deal-with-it says:

Oh, and I'd LOVE to see an Oblivion parody, so many things wrong with it, like how no matter how many times YOU stab the emperor, the fucker doesn't die! and then some douchebag in gay armor stabs him once and all of a sudden X_X.

Nov. 21, 2007 | 2:56 PM GunAlchemist says:

I kinda hate that you are closing the Awesome series, ( That being the reason I joined NewGrounds, ) but I completely understand where you are coming from. And I respect the choices you decide to make.

I anticipate readily your upcoming works.
I support you 100%, I'll be a fan of yours to the end.

Nov. 21, 2007 | 3:28 PM RKThrilla says:

your videos are above average to me 4 out of 5 (i barely ever give out 5s), yes good work, i especially like the digdug one, well anyway ill be waiting for your new movies

Nov. 21, 2007 | 3:35 PM sirbobsalot2 says:

Its a shame it has to end, but as long as there is some form of funny paradies I won't mind.

Nov. 21, 2007 | 4:06 PM RWappin says:

You know, there's a lot of people here who get popular and just stop trying. After reading this though I don't think you're one of them. :)

Nov. 21, 2007 | 8:39 PM Egoraptor responds:

Hey man, that means a lot hearing that from you. I feel like through the Awesome series I've become kind of a joke to the skilled animators here, and I'm trying to break the mold I've created for myself. Let's see if I can do it! Haha. If nothing else it'll be fun!

Nov. 21, 2007 | 6:10 PM Gaigas says:

While i think your awesome compilations are..well..awesome, im sure you can do much better,,cant wait to see what youll be doing next

Nov. 21, 2007 | 6:42 PM Megalomaniak says:

I love all your movies including the voice you did for DBZ in a Nutshell. I've watched all your animations, and while I'm not implying the Awesome Compilations are of bad quality, I can see what you mean when you say that it's holding you back. You're a great animator, voice actor, and whatever else you do. =P I think it's a good choice for you and the fans overall to pursue something you are actually interested in. It'll keep the quality of your previous movies and hopefully improve. Once again, you made the right choice to put yourself above the faceless void (no sarcasm), and I hope everything works out for you.

Nov. 21, 2007 | 8:14 PM DarkWizard1992 says:

Honestly, it was about time. I don't want to be a nay-sayer, but they were in a serious decline. Besides you can make a LOT more ambitious stuff. You've got the contacts, the brain, the voice... Instead of 2 min clips you could have epic flashes like those from your colleagues. You are skilled enough to use new stuff...

Meanwhile, your fans (and me) hope that Awesome finishes with a BANG rather than a whimper.

Nov. 21, 2007 | 8:55 PM Crowshadow says:

This is a good thing in a lot of ways. Im glad your branching out and trying new things to keep your creativeness fresh. I've been a long time fan of the awesome series, ever since i first watched Metal Gear Awesome, and I too am a video game enthusiast, I get a lot of my creative inspiration from video games as well, I write more than anything, Im not really good at drawing or Flash ;^^ but i really want to get into machinama as well, which is why I respect you so much as a voice actor. What wouldn't do to have you voice act for me :P anyway The awesome series was great and I can't wait to see what else you have in store for us. Keep that creative fire going.

sincerely - A devoted fan

Nov. 21, 2007 | 11:36 PM angydk says:

i was a huge fan of the awesome series but im not hugely upset about it ending because they started getting worse after 1 and 2 metal gear awesome is by far ur best animation but i still hope to see some animations from u awesome or not

Nov. 22, 2007 | 12:56 AM Mushman says:

Wow.
I had actually not really thought about the person behind the Flash. I just watch it. I am really happy to hear that at least some Flash artists (like me) are actually putting effort into their Flash and I really like your news post because it gives an insight into the Flasher at work. I myself and really into quality. Sometimes people liken me to a perfectionist, one of them being myself. But that's not bad at all. I'm putting in effort and that's what counts.
I never really thought your Flash as low quality because it was really funny most of the time. I see how you kept telling yourself that you weren't putting in the effort for this element of your Flash, but the reason why no-one noticed it was because it was outstood. But now you're revamping the whole thing, it looks like your works will be better than ever! I hope for the best for you.
I don't have the commitment you have to make Flash. I've currently commited myself to making my own website (a Wii Club) and am concerntrating on making it the best it can be. I'm glad you're doing the same with your Flash. So Keep Flashing!

Nov. 22, 2007 | 1:56 PM Chillslice says:

I say they're all awesome. Actually, that doesn't make any sense, what with the name and all... but they're all way good. Keep it up!

Nov. 22, 2007 | 2:01 PM SiMpSoN-bRuVaS says:

way to turn a negative into a possitive dude! evidently whether deliberate or not in one way or another how 2 succeed on Newgrounds was a pop at you " you can even make 3 in a day if you have to" that post demonstrates the intellectual side of you, a side which hasnt been truely seen since my favourite flash submission metal gear awesomme! Although the compilation series are funny in a way as you have demonstrated you curtailed your artistic ability for money i.e you had to beg to release the series on Newgrounds for your fans! pehaps thats why the series although good didnt progress from 1-5, for example if one was very good but two was perfect then your contractors wouldnt have been happy if three went back to being merely very good again, so you kept the same level of quality throughout the series without seeking to improve (if its not broke dont fix it)! evidently you are one of the most famous flash animators around and if you truely do make flash with your own original ideas to keep your artistic ability growing i take my hat of to you! As one of the guys said earlier youve gone up in my books, this post shows youve taken your fans seriously and are going to learn from what they said, i had no idea you were such a reasoned and rationalised character! good luck to you and im looking forward to a egoraptor flash which is purely based on your talent with characters you have created and in a climate i which you feel comfortable!!!

Nov. 22, 2007 | 4:08 PM biskits says:

it's a shame they had to stop, but i can see where you're coming from.
can't wait for the new stuff!

Nov. 22, 2007 | 4:49 PM cronic-22 says:

Oh... i was hoping you would do one on shenmue like sheawsome or something looking for sailors and getting all pissed odff and stuff...

Oh well m sure your new projects are goona be totaly sick, and i know what you mean about the work stuff you have less time to commite to other hobbies.

I would like to see the whole collection in one movie though i think thta would be cool.

Nov. 22, 2007 | 5:09 PM KingKombat says:

yay! there will still be 6!!^.^

Nov. 23, 2007 | 1:00 AM chris53456 says:

why is everything...awesome?

Nov. 23, 2007 | 5:59 AM MarkP0rter says:

this is a crying shame. normally i tend to write MASSIVE comments. i leave long reviews for movies and i also leave alright comments on journals but i just cant think of anything to say about this one yet i really want to comment on this one simply because its a VERY good journal post. dont get me wrong i am NOT a fan of your work which doesnt mean i dislike what you do. i enjoy your work like everybody else does and its good for some laughs. im just telling you that i am not a fan because often fans just HAAAAAAAAAAVE to reply. you have to suck the famous artist's cock or people will hate you (at least it seems so to me in many cases). well i am replying because i just enjoy this article. i just agree with your thoughts. overall i could have just replied with "amen". sometimes i dont feel like doing any animations because nobody cares so getting motivation is AWESOME. it really helps you do create stuff but then you are also thinking "well i do what I ENJOY and i cant please everyone so why should i even care about what people think as long as im happy". so its good you got yourself a good fan base. your own show with your own characters might be deeper. it wont be just silly gags anymore that make people "lol" i guess. so maybe they wouldnt have appriciated that in the first place. now that people know you everything might be way easier. anyways respect to you -not because of your animations (which arent BAD though. dont take this negative because it isnt supposed to be at all) but respect to you for having deep thoughts, writing them down and sharing them with everybody out there and respect to you because you talk to your fans and REPLY to PMs. you ARE a famous animator and you are very well aware of that but sadly many famous animators are arrogant and ignorant people who just wont reply to others because they think they are something better or they are too busy or something while you TAKE the time to answer. thumbs up and GOOD luck with your new project. yes i WISH you the best of luck for it. oh and haha im glad i somehow managed to write some reply that isnt too crappy looking yet the words looked better in my head.

Nov. 23, 2007 | 8:07 AM BestFlashEver says:

How to succeed : Make painfully obvious observations about a video game and add whacky voices to them.

About sums up your entire career.

Nov. 23, 2007 | 12:55 PM Egoraptor responds:

Thanks.

Nov. 23, 2007 | 9:41 AM Omagoch says:

I think it's good for series to end in it's prime. It seems that many artists continue downhill and progressively get worse as their work ages. Mad props to you.

Nov. 23, 2007 | 12:14 PM Splurda says:

so we'll be seeing even more awesome stuff form you, that is well drawn and stuff? sounds good, also tetra-awesome, no-one can not laugh at the ending on that.

Nov. 23, 2007 | 12:56 PM Egoraptor responds:

No. You won't se any more "Awesome" stuff from me. I'm moving on.

Nov. 23, 2007 | 4:48 PM Catseverywhere says:

This is a real bummer that you're stopping the awesome series. Along with PIGPEN you have been my favorite animator. Not telling anyone but, he hit the bottom after his voice actors moved away. Hopefully, you can continue on with great new stuff! Also, if you're looking for new ideas for some shorts... Send a PM. Keep up the great work!

Nov. 23, 2007 | 6:37 PM VirtualFuckinPlague says:

Hey man, loved all your work from Metal Gear Awesome to Awesome Compilation 5, and im going to keep backing you man, just do what you love that's what it's about...there's too many games out there and too many games that WILL come out for you to strictly put yourself in a box like that. Plus with all the newer talent you never know someone might pick up where you left off? Good luck Man and thank you for the many laughs then and to come.

Nov. 23, 2007 | 8:17 PM Avocado-Tea says:

As long as you keep goin', I'm happy. :)

Nov. 23, 2007 | 8:26 PM Androu1 says:

Well,you should still do some "awsome" stuff at times.Maybe like 1 in a year.But,you do what you want :)

Nov. 23, 2007 | 9:39 PM KamiCosmic says:

Hey I've got a question are you going to make a game anytime soon? I'd love to play it! and also could I maybe know the names of some of your umcoming flashes because hosnestly I don't know and I'd like to!

Nov. 24, 2007 | 3:42 AM Egoraptor responds:

A game? Well, I have ideas but certainly not the resources. If I had like a full team backing me then shit, sure I'd make a game.

Nov. 23, 2007 | 10:39 PM MrPixiestick says:

I kind of always wanted to see the extent of your talent, obviously it doesn't stop here. Seen some of your actual artsy stuffs. I'm not going to say amazing but better than anything I could draw. Hell, I have no talent, I can only do Photoshop, graphic designs and such, gotten very good at it but still no art involved really, never touched Flash at all, although I wish I had. I think you could do wonders with more scripted humor and better art. When it's just random humor it just seems like the same joke every time after a while. Classics are classics, and will always get a chuckle, time for something new for everybody to laugh at.

Good luck.

Nov. 23, 2007 | 11:36 PM ParachuteFish says:

Goddamn, man...

Well, let me tell you something worth hearing, that I TRULY hope you read. Just because the "Awesome" style of art is considered basic, it is in no way "lazy". Jackson Pollack was an artist, despite his work being no more than splattered paint on paper

Apparently, I've been a fan of yours since around second grade, and I'm in tenth now. Unknowingly so at first, actually. I was on Limewire one day downloading cartoons for the first time, and I found your DBZ in a Nutshell audio clip. I had no idea who did it, but I knew that they were a genius

It's a shame that the Awesome series is coming to a rest. I was hoping for more episodes with those three characters that nobody has seen since Haloween 2006, other than their voices. I find myself hearing that soprano Sol Rosenburg voice quite alot in your flashes, and I love it every time

I could beg and plead for a new Awesome episode every now and then, but it would be pointless. If you honestly think that you couldn't add more to the series, than I believe you. I really do

Does me listening to your audio clips way back then make me your oldest fan? Just checking, because I was really shocked when I found out you were behind them, which was quite recently

While the "Awesome" style may have left, please promise me that your vision hasn't

- ParachuteFish

Nov. 24, 2007 | 3:41 AM Egoraptor responds:

Hey man, thanks, but I do draw my own stuff and I can tell you for a fact that it's lazy. lol Also Awesome Halloween is coming out next year, and it's damn funny.

Nov. 24, 2007 | 12:10 AM Twone says:

Things change man. Although I got a great laugh out of your "Awesome" series, I'd love to see your work in the near future. Changes are always happening. Good luck!

Nov. 24, 2007 | 5:46 AM assasinrabbit says:

I actualy read the whole thing and... its kinda sad the awsome series is endin, alotta ppl liked it and all that stuff, but if u can come up with somethin simular then awsome :D, whatever u do (as long as it is funny) I will still be a fan

Nov. 24, 2007 | 5:57 AM Alucard88 says:

That's cool, I would definitely like to see the new stuff man. But could you please do a parody of castlevania? I think that shit would be so funny. Later egoraptor.

Nov. 24, 2007 | 7:18 AM Hadriani says:

After what you've told I'd say this is the right thing to do. You're very confident that this is what you want and that is really worth something. Set your goal and achieve it. Keep on growing because you love to entertain. My gawd I love the way you're thinking.

And for the record: Things don't need "Awesome" in their name to be awesome :3

Peace

Nov. 24, 2007 | 8:04 AM Kyandor says:

Well, I will ALWAYS be a fan of the Awesome flashes. Even if it comes to an end.

But maybe there is actually a solution for this. Have you watched Awesome's Creed, done by AlmightyHans? It's on frontpage while I write. His work reminds me a LOT of the Awesome Compilations. Maybe he could keep the Awesome Compilations going while you seek to improve your skills.

But, well, it's just an idea from a fan.

And I'm looking forward to seeing more of your work, even if it's not related to the Awesome flashes.

Nov. 24, 2007 | 11:10 AM Androu1 says:

I was just wondering if the Video Game parodies you do will be showcased on The GHole?

Would be cool.I don't even watch it,but I just want to know.

Anyway,good luck on all your future projects.Hope they make me ROFL too,even if it's not the same kind of humor :P

GOOD LUCK ON YOUR QUEST!!! (lol)

Nov. 24, 2007 | 11:24 AM darkblue6676 says:

ok so i know that the Awesome Compilation series is over after six, but does that mean you're not gonna draw in awsome style?
because awsome style is partly what makes it funny.

Nov. 24, 2007 | 12:05 PM gotanksrules533 says:

i hope you still make awesome videos....

Nov. 24, 2007 | 3:20 PM SaltshakerClock says:

aw, i don't want it to end, the 7th would be released on my birthday, but never mind.

Nov. 25, 2007 | 1:54 AM Egoraptor responds:

Well, then, the finale will be released on your birthday.

Nov. 24, 2007 | 3:57 PM CyborgStalker says:

Wow. I was half expecting you to end the announcement in something like "LULZ! JK, the Awesome series will never end! Lol lol lol Awsome slap!". Thats to bad. I had only been a fan since Awesome Compilation 4, and thought it would last till 10 or something like that. In the words of George Bush, your working hard to put food on your family.

Nov. 24, 2007 | 4:01 PM ShadowWest2k7 says:

ouch, its gutting you're not gonna continue the series, but its your choice. thanks for the movies, all of them have almost killed me with laughter and i have favorited them all as a result. good luck for the fututre. ^_^

Nov. 24, 2007 | 5:55 PM retyuoligkl says:

that would be awsome to see you with your OWN characters and stories. The series was funny, but its getting old.

Nov. 24, 2007 | 6:22 PM Kalcaman says:

Well.....I felt a little depressed after reading this. Even though the jokes were getting redundant, I have to say that your videos were usually what I was looking forward to. But change is good, and as long as you have some cameo's from the awesome series, I hope you have fun! Well I await the 6th one and then some! Thanks for the laughs!!!

Nov. 24, 2007 | 8:18 PM bazzickles says:

good on ya man I do respect you cause of what you did and doing something pretty much different is a hard thing to do but aswell can be very rewarding lol

Nov. 24, 2007 | 9:00 PM GameFreak5 says:

That great that you decided to start a new series after ACV6. I, for one, can't wait for it.

Your Awesome

One Question though, wasn't there suppose to be an Awesome Halloween 2?
P.S. I would love to see the guys in Awesome Halloween in your new series.

Nov. 25, 2007 | 1:56 AM Egoraptor responds:

Awesome Halloween 2 will be released next year. There was no way I was going to finish it in time for this Halloween, and I really didn't want to release it mid-July or something. It's going to be awesome, I promise.

And if Hank, Billy, and Clyde do appear in my new project, it'll be very brief cameos.

Nov. 24, 2007 | 9:13 PM XxTheWorldIsYoursxX says:

Oh, well. RIP Awesome series. I really hope to see more video game parodies for sure Egoraptor.

Nov. 24, 2007 | 11:50 PM rtil says:

you're an animator? lmao. you're so conceited it's not even funny. kinda like your cartoons!

Nov. 25, 2007 | 2:18 AM Egoraptor responds:

Why are you such a jerk? I figured that you of all people would appreciate that I'm trying to move on. But no, unless I die you're unhappy. Well I'm not going to die so live with it. Christ.

Nov. 25, 2007 | 1:14 AM AtomicToast says:

Its going to be sad seeing this great series come to an end but if it seems right to you go ahead. The idea was starting to get stale. I look forward to seeing this new pet project of yours. Any hints on what it might be? I'm sure your die-hard fans will make the rest of the awesome shorts, such as awesome's creed that is currently on the front page.

Nov. 25, 2007 | 1:21 AM carnage170 says:

That's too bad, man but I enjoyed your flashes anyway. I can't wait to see more of your flashes man.

Nov. 25, 2007 | 1:38 AM The-Yokai says:

Do what you like! 18 Awesome shorts is enough. I'd love to see other work by you for sure! So create something new and different, amaze us all. I will always be a huge fan of your stuff.

Nov. 25, 2007 | 2:14 AM shadowknightx says:

Sup, just another fan and im not trying to start stuff but Ashford Pride is calling... well pretty much everything youve animated "useless" and "crap." Personally, I love your animations and I get a good laugh out of em.

Nov. 25, 2007 | 3:47 AM rtil says:

Who said I wanted you dead? Anyway, "I have tons of ideas for further parody video games" does not equate to "moving on". You are the perfect example of everything that is wrong with animation today.

Nov. 26, 2007 | 2:44 AM Egoraptor responds:

I also mentioned things about my own stories and my own ideas, but apparently you chose to ignore that in light of me mentioning I would still like to parody video games somehow. Forgive me for having an interest in a topic you dislike. I think that your idea of animation is very skewed, as if animation was absolutely, positively meant to be a bunch of pretentious displays of physics, deep storytelling and character development. Of course, it's wondrous to see animations that achieve that, but you act as if it's a sin against man to create animations A. for fun, and B. to entertain a niche group of people when you yourself are responsible for several animations that were created for BOTH of those purposes, and not only that, some are downright HATEFUL. Nowhere do I say I am a fantastic animator, but I do say that I'd like to creatively explore myself because my appreciation and dedication for animation has grown over time, and once again, it baffles me how you, of all people, who appreciate animation SO MUCH, can't even show an ounce of respect for that. I know everyone knows it, but you're just an incredibly biased guy.

And the "dead" remark was referring to review I recall you making telling me to "please die," though, my memory could just suck and I could have fabricated the whole thing or have gotten you confused with someone else. I apologize if I'm wrong. Regardless, you've shown me such immense contempt, honestly, how could it not feel to me that you just want me to disappear off the face of the planet? You're very good at hating people, rtil.

Nov. 25, 2007 | 6:51 AM theicecubeclock says:

well... thats rather dissapointing... but oh well, cannt wait to see your new movies

Nov. 25, 2007 | 8:30 AM mikko-dude says:

i dont see no problem here... keep doing what you want to do!

Nov. 25, 2007 | 12:25 PM Nalydor says:

the whole awesome series is awesome, I love all of them, I was watchong them before the compilations came out, and now instead of going on youtube and having to track them down, I can simply go on NG and watch them in the compilations, with extra shorts! Hooray for extras! Anyways, keep the humor comin man

with crap,
Nalydor

Nov. 25, 2007 | 4:24 PM HH-Blackhawk says:

To rtil: Just because he doesn't draw anime and you do doesn't mean he's not a animator and to Egoraptor: I hope your new movies after the awesome series will have your wacky zany cool sense of humor. R.I.P Awesome series you will be missed.

Nov. 25, 2007 | 9:28 PM pacmanclock says:

i dont know where to make request but ill do it here.The next games you should parody are guilty gear X2(or awsome gear)Persona 3(dont know whate 2 call it)and pikmin or pikmin 2(awsomemin) i know the games are old but these sound awsome to me.If ya decide to do these then i rly appreciate it.

Nov. 26, 2007 | 11:43 AM Cyberdevil says:

Well it was great as long as it lasted! heh, if you have some extra time I hope you spend it well sleeping or more preferably infront of your screen working on a part 7. ^_^

Nov. 26, 2007 | 12:20 PM elitejavi says:

i hope that you make really good series that are really funny!(yeah... this sounded kinda gay...)
whatever, i think you're making a really good decision by ending the Awesome series after 6...
it's not that i don't like them, in fact, they are my number one favorite flash movie(well, that'll happen if i ever put my favorites in order...)
but anyway, it's very normal when people try to keep on going with something to try to please the fans, but then, as that's not really what they wanna do, that something starts to become crap...
...
anyway, another reason why it's good that you end 'em, it's because if you don't, it'll end a la Street Fighter 2(hyper mega super duper magical yay wee OMFG edition!)

whatever, i've writed enought... i often get inspired like this lol)

thanks for the awesome awesome series!

seeya(i always end a post or this kinda things saying that...)

Nov. 26, 2007 | 12:48 PM rtil says:

I never said anything about animation only being a display of physics, character development and deep plot, which none of my animations display at all. You made that up so you could have another reason to be upset with me.

I don't have a problem with parody. What I have a problem with is people who repeat it like a broken record and act like it's ok. Sure you are developing your own story ideas, but it's too late for that. Anything you make now is fueled by the fire of your "awesome" series. You didn't have to work hard to get where you are today. You have a bunch of video game characters to thank for your inflated status, none of which belong to you. Don't try and tell me that a 30 second skirmish with garbled sketches, a script laced with profanity and mundane observations on video games with the same voice over and over is something that took you any profound effort to create. It would only have merit in the messed up and watered down world of animation we live in today.

I have a hard time believing you have any respect for animation after creating dozens of these horrid "cartoons" which display no effort at all. You think you deserve some kind of respect from me for making those? give me a break.

Not only yourself, but the success you have received and embraced with open arms is not only disturbing but tiresome. Your work is discouraging in the fact that I shouldn't even be motivated to try to express my original ideas when instead I could do what you do, which is significantly less stressful, and have a wider multitude of opportunities.

There is no reason for me to be happy for you. No matter what I do I am always underneath people like you for not giving in and paying tribute to pop culture.

Nov. 26, 2007 | 8:21 PM Egoraptor responds:

I think that the world of pop culture will always be disappointing in that the best artists who put the most work into their pieces get the shaft when stuff formulated to appeal to the masses gets way more attention, and I completely agree. I think the awesome series is exactly that, and again, I agree. I am ending it. I DO have plans for future parodies, NOT "awesome" movies, but it's because I want to, not because I'm trying to buy into hype or I want more hits or something. I love video games, and I love making fun of them. I'm not going to stop doing what I want to do.

I don't want you to be happy for me, and I don't even want you to like me; at this point it seems pretty hopeless anyway. If there's something I want from you it's to stop being such a jerk to me because you don't like what I've made in the past, but I'm pretty glad that your last few posts have been pretty civil.

Anyway, I've admitted to my parodies lacking effort and being mediocre, once again I've not said at all that I'm a good animator. I had an opportunity to make something of myself and I took it. But it's over, and I know that I can't make and achieve what I want if I keep doing this. Making these mediocre "awesome" parodies is not what I want to do.

But, letting people down is not easy for me, either. Yeah, I understand this awesome series is destroying my integrity but look at all these people just in this blog entry who love this series. It was hard enough deciding I was going to stop this series, and I realized, as I've said, that it IS hurting my integrity, it IS stale, and it IS taking advantage of pop culture like you say. I guess I am a weak person for giving into it, but I'm going to try less and less to appeal to fans and more appeal to myself. I want to create and get my original ideas "on paper," so to speak, to satisfy my desire to make things.

You seem to care so much about popularity, saying I haven't worked hard in order to deserve what I have, and how you're underneath me for not giving into pop culture. What the fuck, man? How are you BENEATH me except when considering how inflated my fanbase has become? Is that what's really important to you? I appeal to my fanbase because I'm a fucking sap, I can't stand disappointing people, as I've said, but do you really think that I feel like I stand above people like you because I'm more popular? Fucking PLEASE. Have you not been noticing the torrents of support I've given you and your art? Do you think that by promoting my compilations that I feel like I stand above other animators? I really think these internet communities have twisted your mind. You have great, righteous ideals, but when it comes to THIS, it seems like you're too absorbed in page views and rankings. "It's too late for that."? That's insulting. It's fucking insulting. As if because of what people on the internet think about who I am, I am no longer allowed to make animations that I want to make. Because my reputation is ruined so much, I should just stop. I am completely incapable of any little bit of respect because of what I've done, and any FANBASE that I achieve from what I create is completely unfounded. That is the biggest load of bullshit I have ever heard in my entire life. And I thought pretty hard before I made that comment, because saying it's the "biggest load of bullshit I've ever heard" is pretty severe, but I'm pretty satisfied with my choice of words. I really hope that you understand where I am coming from when I say this, so I want to reiterate:

Because of my unfounded level of popularity, any further popularity I achieve from legitimate creations deserves no respect because I am riding on the success of my previous submissions. Understandable. But, because of my unfounded level of popularity, you are saying that the movies that I make, PERIOD, deserves no respect because I am riding on the success of my previous submissions. Forget the work, creativity, and effort that will go into them, forget their own qualities, shit, forget the movies themselves. Its POPULARITY is what's important and is why I should receive no respect. Even if, let's say, I make something you absolutely LOVE (and I'm being hypothetical here), because it is riding on the success of my previous submissions, it sucks, and I, as well as the movie, deserve(s) no respect. I really hope you understand how much bullshit this is. That is why I think your views of this situation, while very founded and are mostly very understandable and easy to agree with, are biased.

I understand your hatred for this kind of popularity, this kind of pop culture buzz. But taking it out on me, especially when I'm saying that I'm trying to move on from it, is not going to help you. Masses are still going to eat shit up no matter how many of the CREATORS you criticize. Actually, I take some of that back, maybe the creators will start to realize there's more to creating than appealing to the masses, but the masses will always be the same, and I don't think there's really anything you can do about that. But prove me wrong, I'd love to see a world where everyone appreciates the things that deserve appreciation. And I say that without an ounce of sarcasm.

Updated: Nov. 26, 2007, 8:53 PM

Nov. 26, 2007 | 1:47 PM Doubleraz says:

I respect you're decision to end the Awesome series. I personally love it but all good things must come to an end. I perfer you just end it here rather than releasing them until they are boring an unfunny. Since you have been doing this (animating) for a while, I'm sure you have gotten pretty good at it. And as a fellow animator, I think you really should stop making movies where you have to use all FBF and you can't become a better animator. Even though you're very good at it. So, I look forward to what you are making in the future. Good luck with the flash movies! I'll be watching them.

Nov. 26, 2007 | 5:36 PM theicecubeclock says:

CONGRADULATIONS ON THE COLLECTION PAGE! :D!

Nov. 26, 2007 | 5:43 PM Nondo says:

Wow, Egoraptor, you got your own damn collection now in Newgrounds. Congratulations! xD It was bound to happen sooner or later.

Nov. 26, 2007 | 5:51 PM AshfordPride says:

Haven't seen rtil get this riled up since he went off on The Swain...

I don't really see what the point of getting mad at the creator is. Look at ANYTHING. Books. Movies. Music. Are the best things in those fields ussually the most popular? Is the populous a bunch of learned and knowledgeable critics? No. They want to watch their Scary Movies, read their Harry Potter, and crank their Solja Boy.

Are we to blame the artists? Well, it would seem sort of silly. Nobody sets out saying, "Hey, maybe if I please everyone with my sub-standard product, I can make a few bucks." People write music because they want to write music. People make movies because they want to make movies. People animate because they want to animate.

Now, sometimes things take off. Who knows why. They just do. And with popularity, there is a demand for more. This is where a series becomes a tempting idea. On one hand, you're giving people what they want. On the other hand, you're giving them a similar product that lacks the integrity and originality of a stand alone piece.

Is it wrong to make a series? In some cases, it can become overkill. When we see someone churn out flash after flash simply because they know that they will get front page, a whole bunch of views, and maybe some cash then we have a problem. I wouldn't put Egoraptor among those ranks... FORESHADOWING?

And rtil, you're liked by the people who matter. Not to... Y'know... Put down Egoraptor...

But!

People look at your work a different way than they look at something like the Awesome series. It's parody versus art, when it comes right down to it. More people are going to be able to appreciate art than they are a parody.

Show a little more pride in your accomplishments. Who cares if you don't have a gaggle of teens swooning at your feet. You're the tops! If I was in your shoes, I'd have a little more appreciative towards my accomplishments and I'd show a little less animosity towards my peers...

And Egoraptor, you're no slouch yourself. You are the type who's just out here to have fun and get some views...

...

SUPPOSEDLY.

...

Well, that's some two cents by a completely neutral party. Yep. Neutral as milk.

...

Oh God, please don't rip what I said to shreds... I bruise like a banana...

Nov. 26, 2007 | 8:38 PM Egoraptor responds:

"Show a little more pride in your accomplishments. Who cares if you don't have a gaggle of teens swooning at your feet. You're the tops! If I was in your shoes, I'd have a little more appreciative towards my accomplishments and I'd show a little less animosity towards my peers..."

This statement is amazing and I couldn't have said it better myself.

Nov. 26, 2007 | 6:10 PM Nondo says:

Woah woah guys, Rtil, what's with the hate? O_O

Wow Egoraptor, did you do something in a past life to piss him off so hard? :o

Anyways, although I'm a fan of both of you artists, I'm going to have to side with Egoraptor on this one, since you (Rtil) have decided to take the very negative side of this.

Just because Egoraptor doesn't make absolute perfect graphics in his animations doesn't mean he can't get a good score with something simple. Egoraptor does things and brings out the full purpose in them, which is to display the comedy inside his video game parodies, and at the same time, use his own unique way of animations to display them. It was never a requirement to make full blown, hardcore graphics to be a great animator, and you should know that too. I know, you're probably saying to yourself, "It should be." but then what about all the other 100's of other flash animations that don't have the best animations in the world, yet have high scores? Are you denying their right to have a good rep in the animation area too?

I've seen lots of your works Rtil, and yes, I love them because of their awesome display of animations, the great use of music you put into them, and the detail behind it all. However, just because you make all of these stupendous flash projects, doesn't justify the right to degrade someone else's work in such a harsh (VERY harsh to be more precise) manner. No, I'm not talking about negative criticism; I'm talking about full-blown insults towards Egoraptor.

I, personally, never expected such a hate to happen between you and Egoraptor. It just doesn't seem right to attack someone for doing something they love to do. If you ask me, jealousy kind of runs around you a little here.

But alright, now lets say I side with you, Rtil, why not, instead of trying to degrade him here, battle at him at what you do best, which would be at flash animations. No, I'm not talking about attacking him using flash projects, but making a flash project that's better than Egoraptor's work. You say he's a rundown flash artist, and he says he isn't, so why don't you attempt to prove him wrong with your own work?

It should be that kind of motivation that should make you strive even harder to be better at making flash projects. Whether it be for graphics, music, storyline, humor, or whatever else, you should take this as a way of trying to better yourself and get back at him that way. This sort of insults is just too foolish, and definitely not like you Rtil. Be the flash artist that we all like, Rtil, and I'm sure you'll prove your way someday, if you try your best at it. Then you can show Newgrounds that your work is better than his.

So, I've taken both sides, but I'm hoping this will end soon because it just seems unhappy when 2 great artists are feuding over each other. :(

- Nondo

Nov. 26, 2007 | 6:28 PM Nondo says:

Errgh, I'm not too sure how that "Jealousy" line got in there (thought I deleted it), but it's not what I meant in that comment above this one, sorry.

To AshfordPride: So this isn't a first? O_o

Nov. 26, 2007 | 6:58 PM kingkillah says:

Well I didn't read any of that, BUT regardless of whether you stop making flashes or not I think your awesome.

Nov. 26, 2007 | 10:14 PM rtil says:

You read it all wrong. You read it all so wrong. You think I care about ratings and views, no. It's not about me wanting to be popular, it's about why you're popular. And when I said, "it's too late", it doesn't mean that your new work will not be good no matter what. It means you have people like Solid Snake and Sonic the Hedgehog to thank for people giving half a crap about your future cartoons, regardless of what it is. And that's no bullshit.

And to Nondo, the last thing an animator needs is pride. The second I start thinking I am good is the second I begin my decline. And if there's anyone I can't stand, it's a self absorbed animator.

Also thanks for the hilarious review on metropolis circuit, ego. it's the funniest thing i've read in a long time.

Nov. 26, 2007 | 10:50 PM Egoraptor responds:

But you're missing my point completely. It shouldn't matter and doesn't matter whether or not people care about my future cartoons. I just want to make them.

It's obvious, at this point, that you and I have incredibly different ideals. I think we should just leave it at that.

And you're welcome.

Nov. 26, 2007 | 10:44 PM PinFault says:

I Really feel its time to end this constant bickering between you two. although Rtil does make some vialed points on how Egoraptor has repeated his style of comedy again and again ( truthfully even i think he has pulled quite the guitar hero) this does not give you the right to demean another animator. It is quite obvious to anyone with eyes that Egoraptor does not really put a large amount of time into frame by frame animation, but he makes up for this by offering a funny skit that personally has always left me laughing, and for his large fan base in my option it was eporaptors ability to create works in such a short amount of time that had the fans coming back for more. This is just how it works, people always come for a quick laugh. i myself looked forward to the new awesome compilation episodes every single time with much more enthusiasms in comparison to your animations. why you ask? its simple because most fans will not wait month after month for a movie that is only about 4 minutes long.

Nov. 27, 2007 | 12:22 AM ReviewerFromHell says:

I'll definitely miss looking forward to new Awesomes every month. Personally, I don't think you should end it, so much as retire. Maybe whip one up every once in a good while. (I remember hating watching the G-Hole, to be honest, but I did so to find your flashes. And then the compilations started coming out, and I was ecstatic.)

The series, in and of itself, I thought was a great way to do just that - make a few laughs. Honestly, though, some of the jokes NEVER get old. I still laugh EVERY time I watch Metal Gear Awesome, and my friend and I still laugh whenever we imitate it.

I am looking

Newgrounds.com — Everything, By Everyone.

Egoraptor

Contact Info

Newgrounds Stats

Entry #7

The State of the Awesome Series.

Leave a comment!

Share this!

The People Have Spoken