Overall MVP (in all catagories): Byrd Man
Byrd Man is everywhere. Yes, this is a frightening thought, I know. But he is. In DC, he was a driving force of the Dark Alliance storyline, the guy that stepped in when it was floundering in limbo between the groups big reveal and them actually doing something, and as Deathstroke, launched the seasons big arc into the stratosphere and established a rollercoaster pace that barely let up until seasons end. Over in Marvel, where activity has been slumping, Byrd has been working hard to pick up the slack, and come up with ideas to get people posting again. And in 1U, if I want something done in IC or OOC, it is usually Byrd I find myself pestering to set things in motion. Quite simply, the guy gets things done, and does them well. MVP? Absolutely.
MVP (in Marvel): bkhedr
A real unsung hero of the RPGs, I feel that bkhedrs apparent preference for solo story arcs means his writing talent is often overlooked by other players. But in Marvel, his talent has really shone bright this year. In the Marvel RPG, he plays both Captain America and Thor two important, iconic, but very different heroes and has made them both equally convincing and compelling. I mentioned above the slump in activity over in Marvel, but if theres one guy there who you can depend on to keep things moving and to maintain a presence in the game, its bkhedr. And for that, he easily deserves recognition with this award.
MVP (in DC): Andy C.
He might not be a GM in DC, but Andy C. still plays an important role in the success of the RPG. In a way, he is a standard-bearer for the high caliber of writing long associated with the DC RPG. I also hear great things about his work in Ultimate DC, but have no first-hand experience of that, and so must limit my praise to the main DC game. Every time Andy C. makes a new post as Superman, I know Im going to read something well-structured, dramatic, and dripping with character nuance. The guy has pretty much a 100% hit-rate, I dont think I can even recall a Superman post that was merely point-A-to-point-B functional. Andy C. always makes that extra effort to make his posts mean something, and for that he gets my kudos. Long may he reign as the Man of Steel.
MVP (in Misc): wiegeabo
I think it is in recent weeks, as the One Universe RPG has slowed down to a crawl, that we have come to appreciate how valued wiegeabo is to this board. It is wiegeabo who is constantly giving our asses a well-deserved kicking, taking the time to put up lists of when we last posted, removing players who have been inactive for too long, and generally telling us to pull our fingers out. And he has largely led by example in IC, his Batman and Jay Garrick as dependably strong as ever. Wiegeabo is valued wherever he goes, but Id say its on these boards that he stands out more than any other.
Best RPG: World of Heroes: DC RPG
Once again, I grant this award to the World of Heroes DC RPG, largely because the story hasnt changed from last year. If you want consistently great writing, brilliant characterization and gripping storytelling, then the DC RPG is without a doubt the best place to find it. We have a roster of writers so talented, Id hold them up against the writing stable of any real comic company. Plus, I know Ive said this so often its become a cliché, but World of Heroes is the one RPG where, more than any other, I can just read everything, every post, like a continuous story, and be rewarded with an excellent, largely seamless narrative. And it shows no sign of losing steam yet Id argue last season was the best weve ever had. Heres hoping we can keep up the standard with this season!
RPG Lifetime Achievement Award: Master Bruce
Master Bruce is one of the few that has been around since the very early days, and he just keeps on getting better. It seems there is some kind of scientific correlation between how rarely Master Bruce posts, and how awesome said posts are when they actually arrive. I should perhaps devise some kind of mathematical theory to explain this phenomenom. But joking aside, his posts are always worth the wait. He writes an astoundingly good Superman, successfully boiling down Superman to his most iconic, enduring elements before All-Star Superman was so much as a preview solicit. But what clinches this lifetime achievement nomination for me is that he has finally made the achievement of an RPing lifetime. After years of coveting, near-misses and, most of all, patient waiting, Master Bruce finally has the role of Batman in the DC RPG. I believe it is one of the signs of the Apocalypse. So it could turn out that, despite getting this nomination now, his best work has yet to come. Nevertheless, for all he has contributed to the RPGs both IC and OOC during his lengthy tenure, this award has in Master Bruce the winner it deserves. And the winner it needs.
Best Foreign Poster Nominees: Harlekin
Best foreign poster seems like a weird category to nominate someone for. Congratulations, you are a good writer, AND youre from another country! So rather than praising Harlekin for his crazy Dutch foreignness, Im going to use this space to pay tribute to a fantastic player who has sadly departed from our ranks. Harlekin was a player I held in the highest of regard, both as a writer and as a person. As a collaborator, he was always a joy to work with, and whether it was with Lex Luthor, Captain Nazi, Deadshot or Crispus Allen, when Harlekin posted you always knew you were going to get something really good. He will be missed. This is beginning to sound like an obituary! Fear not, Harlekin is very much alive, and I hope that one day well see him return to these games. They wont be quite the same without him.
Best Poster who's name rhymes with Herd Fan: Catman (PRB)
It kinda rhymes. Cant think of anyone closer.
Most Improved Player Nominees: Blacklight
Yes, I nominated Blacklight for this award last year, too. But his improvement from last year is even more pronounced than his improvement was last year from the year before that. Last year, Blacklight had reached a level where he was doing work that was, by his own standards, great. This year, whether it be as Booster Gold, Blue Beetle or Kyle Rayner, Blacklight is no longer just great by his own standards. His writing is good enough to hold up against any other player in the games. The recent JLA meeting was a case-in-point. Blacklights Booster Gold stumbled into a scene involving players such as Andy C., Byrd Man, Watchman, Superferret, trustyside-kick and Johnny Blaze, and never once seemed out of his depth. Im excited to see what Blacklight can do with a heavy-hitter like Superman, as he has more than proved himself as being capable of doing such a character justice. I wouldnt be surprised to find myself nominating Blacklight for this award again next year, as the guy just gets better and better.
Break-out Player of the year Nominees: Watchman
It feels strange, calling a multi-year veteran of the RPGs a breakout player. But the writing speaks for itself. Not that Watchman hasnt always been a strong writer. People often refer to Johnny Blaze and myself as the villain guys, but Watchman has made quite the RPing career out of playing a variety of dastardly figures, from Scarecrow to Green Goblin to Ultron to Red Skull to Cyborg Superman to Prometheus, with a good few in between. But because Watchman is such a selfless writer, and collaborates with other writers in ways that play to their strengths rather than simply focusing on showcasing himself, he has rarely received the recognition he deserves come awards season. Well, I believe that is all set to change in 2009, as one of the RPGs finest supporting players seems geared to take centre-stage with a leading role in the DC RPG. Watchman attracted attention with a standout closing post to end last season, and his imposter Batman story is thus far the highlight of this season, with its slow-boil dread and heavy foreshadowing suggesting bigger, better things to come. I wouldnt be surprised to see Watchman getting nominated for many more awards this time next year.
G.O.D. (Games Operational Director) Award Nominees: Byrd Man
See my comments in the MVP section. Theres a reason why Byrd Man is running (or helping to run) so many games. Because hes just a natural leader.
Best Newcomer Nominees: Optikal
I might be a bit biased, because I recruited him, but Optikal immediately established himself as a skilled writer when he made his RPG debut. Now he just needs to work on sticking with a character and posting more often!
Best Multiple PC Story Arc: The Dark Alliance II: The Wrath of Khan (DC)
There were other stories this year? I hate to blow my own trumpet, but really, Im not. I may have been involved in planning the story and the set-up, but the execution of DC Season 6s big storyline was the very definition of a group effort. Like I mentioned earlier, from Deathstrokes opening salvo right through to seasons end, this season was just one big rollercoaster ride of tension, drama and, of course, blockbuster action. Everyone, hero and villain alike, just seemed to bring their A-game to the table, making the second formation of the legendary Dark Alliance every bit as memorable as the first, and perhaps even better! Time to start preparing for Dark Alliance III in Season 10
Best Solo Story Arc: The Flash VS The Rogues (SenseiofCheese, 1U)
Okay, its not quite solo, as Blacklights Green Lantern did briefly join in to help The Flash take down Weather Wizard. But for the most part, this story has been carried single-handedly by the always excellent SenseiofCheese, following a wonderfully old-school formula of superhero takes down the bad guys one by one. Sensei is great as The Flash, and almost got my Best Hero nomination I still hope he makes the shortlist. But instead, I decided to nominate him here, as he has done a great job of (re)introducing each of Wally Wests Rogues into 1U continuity, making sure each one is fleshed-out and presented as a serious threat in their own right. And best of all, each battle is narrated by The Flash, as brought to life brilliantly by Sensei. I just hope he comes back from his absence soon, so I can see the conclusion of The Flash VS Mirror Master!
Best Hero Nominees: Batman (MaskedManJRK, DC)
MaskedManJRKs run as Batman might now be over, but there is no doubt that, for the DC RPG, it is the end of an era. JRK did so much sterling work with the character over the years and left such a mark that, even though there were periods where he was absent, it was hard to imagine anyone else in the role. And with the end of this season, JRK went out on a dramatic, shocking, heartbreaking high, giving us a death truly worthy of the character. Lets hope Grant Morrison can do as good a job. JRK, it was an honor being the Joker to your Batman for over 3 years.
Best Villain Nominees: Magneto (Johnny Blaze, Marvel)
More a case of quality than quantity here, but Johnny Blaze did a wonderful job bringing Magneto to life. The storyline he was building up from the start of this season of Marvel was fascinating stuff, and its a shame JB dropped the character before he could see it through. Based primarily on the strength of his portrayal, I was very sorely tempted to pick up Magneto and continue the story myself. Johnny Blaze struck a commendable balance between making Magnetos actions reprehensible, and giving us enough insight into his thought processes to see how these actions were justified in Magnetos mind. But JB also showed us the ever-increasing guilt that was tormenting Magneto over how far past his moral line he had crossed with this latest campaign. His Magneto was a prime example of why Johnny Blaze is now one of my most missed players.
Best Team Nominees: Teen Titans (DC)
The same team I nominated last year, Id say its been more of the same that got them nominated again this year. The chemistry between these guys is so natural it seems to border on effortless. They really do feel like a team, all bouncing off each other and complimenting each other well. They could probably teach us JLAers a lesson or two!
Death Scene of The Year: Deathstroke (Green Lantern, DC)
Im sure Batmans death is going to get more recognition here, and thats fine, JRK gave us an excellent post there. But my vote goes to the shocking demise of Deathstroke. After so long of crossing the line, and pushing the heroes to the limit, one of the heroes finally had taken enough from Deathstroke, and decided to push back, with fatal consequences. That hero was Arsenal. And the push too far was the maiming of little Lian Harper, her eye being gouged out while Arsenal watched on in horror. As readers, we were torn between thinking that Roy was utterly justified in killing off Slade, that the rat deserved it, and being utterly horrified at a superhero crossing this line and killing an enemy in such ruthless, grisly fashion.
http://forums.superherohype.com/showpost.php?p=14831050&postcount=1838
WTF Moment of The Year: Poison gas? What poison gas? (Brotha-Man, DC)
Brotha-Mans candle burned brief, but oh so bright. He made a quick impression for posting as Muhammad X in his own little world, either oblivious or indifferent to what was going on in the game around him. Nowhere was this more clear than when Muhammad X decided to take up residence in Metropolis, and went about his everyday activities. However, this would have been difficult, seeing that the city had just been gassed with Joker Venom.
http://forums.superherohype.com/showpost.php?p=14592700&postcount=1657
Best Developed Character: Daredevil (Peter Parker, 1U)
Hes not been around so much lately (though he seems set to remedy that) but lets not forget what an impression Peter Parker has made on this past season of the One Universe RPG. His Joker is great, and very nearly earned by Best Villain nomination. But his finest work has been with the character of Daredevil. Parker really grasps the hard-bitten edge of Matt Murdock, giving a raw, gritty portrayal of the character that has never failed to compel or entertain. I particularly enjoyed working with him as Harvey Dent, it gave me a real appreciation of the thought he puts into making his portrayal as convincing as possible. He has done a great job.
Best Fight: Deathstroke VS The Arrow Family (Byrd Man, Green Lantern, Shlee, twylight, DC)
There have been many great fights this season. From 1Us violent confrontation between Daredevil and The Joker, to Marvels season-opening three-way hospital smackdown between Spider-Man, Doctor Octopus and Venom, to the climactic battle between the united heroes and Doomsday-Brainiac in DC, this year built up quite a shortlist for consideration. But for me, the winner is a fight that had me gripped from beginning to end. Ive already gushed about the shocking end up above, but what about that beginning? What we thought was some quiet, character-developing downtime with Green Arrow is brutally interrupted by an ambush from Deathstroke. And from there we have an emotionally-charged war, with Byrd Man, twylight and Shlee firing on all cylinders, and Green Lantern doing some of the best work Ive ever seen from him. DC needs to just draw this fight and put it in a comic already.
Funniest Post: Asteroid-Man falls hook, line and sinker (Asteroid-Man, OOC)
Okay, this post really shouldnt be applicable, for two reasons. 1) Its not an IC post, 2) It came last year, though because of the context didnt become FUNNY until this year. But it was the funniest thing I read on the RPG boards all year. As most of you know, I was the one sending the PROJECT: ICARUS e-mails, doing some viral marketing for the Dark Alliance II arc. However, as you will see, somebody took the mystery a lot more seriously than everyone else:
Ok, so all those references are to people and things at their greatest without a worry in the world and they all tumbled down and crashed. He said it would happen violently. Also that a similar thing has happened before... My guess? The boards are going to be vandalized. Swear words, porn, banned users etc. all coming on here to terrorize the place and if they REALLY wanted to go nuts, they could even hack into the server, send automatic PMs to everyone using an IP locater to show every user they know where they live. Either way, I still don't believe it. I'd like to see a PM. I want his IP address. With it, I'm going to find out WHO he is, and WHY he's doing this. Things we can do to prevent a Hype Apocalypse:
1. Look up any possible forum vandelizations from the past (I can remember one from the Star Wars boards)
2. Get his IP address and find the guy.
3. If he's registered send him emails.
4. Still giving threats? Call the police with the IP address, email address and a satellite image of where he lives using an IPA locater.
5. Do not ban this guy. Apparently he isn't even a user.
Whatever this guy can do, we can stop it. The best solution is get his location using his IP address to the police. Stop him before he starts. The last thing we need is 9/11: Hype! Edition
9/11 Hype! Edition! Ha! But those are just context. Best one of all, and my funniest post nominee, is this baby right here:
He's a user alright but he won't come up in searches due to lack of posts. I tried sending him a PM.
Subject: Flying too close to the sun
Body:
Don't try this apocalypse crap. I'm on to you buddy. Back off the hype or you'll have to deal with me. You might talk tough and have a little bit of tech skills to try something here but I don't need Icarus's wings to fly, I'm Asteroid-Man. I've flown to the sun and back. I've been in orbit for millions of years. You on the other hand are young floating just above the earth, and I give you one chance for forfeit before I burst your bubble.
-the Asteroid-Man
Here's what I got back:
Project: Icarus has chosen not to receive private messages or may not be allowed to receive private messages. Therefore you may not send your message to him/her.
Best Post: Batmans Requiem (MaskedManJRK and co, DC)
Like I said, MaskedManJRK vacating the role of Batman is the end of an era. And he gave his run on the character a truly fitting send-off with this series of posts, all to be found on this page:
http://forums.superherohype.com/showthread.php?t=287016&page=96
MaskedManJRK was the one who put it all together, but plenty of others were involved in collaborating on this farewell to Batman. It provided us with an epic afterword to the Dark Alliance II saga, in the same way the mass funeral that closed Season 2 helped wrap up everything in the wake of the first Dark Alliance storyline. Well done to all involved!
I therefore give it to Catman... But only for national pride... He's rubbish really 
cwink
t: My IC awards shall be up soon.
