The interview went quite well. Apparently I’m in the running for two positions, and they have to fill the position quickly, so I might be in luck here. I’ll know by next Friday. I’m optimistic.
I got another interview, this time with Lions Clubs International. This would be right up my alley, so I’m hoping for good things. It’ll be on Wednesday afternoon, so wish me luck before then! 
I swear to god, it seems like everything this guy touches is gold.
http://www.vgmix.com/song_view.php?song_id=4749
I should probably explain to those of you I haven’t talked to about VGMix or OCR. Fans, for quite some time now, have taken their favorite video game tracks and remixed them with varying degrees of technique and talent. This can range from simple rearranging by computer, or a full-on live effort using guitars, drums, and vocals.
Prophecy, in particular, is a very talented artist that remixes in the electronica/trance vibe, and I’ve liked everything that he has put out so far (which has sadly only been four mixes). This last one is a great collaborative effort that just shines. Highly recommended if you even remotely like electronica.
Here’s an article on it:
http://www.gamespot.com/news/2005/08/17/news_6131245.html
It’s an interesting move, but it effectively makes the release price $399, which I think will leave some sticker shock effects next year. Microsoft will still sell more of both versions of the system than they can produce by the end of the year, but the more casual consumer is likely going to pick up the Core system or even wait until the PS3 comes out, as we can expect a price drop then. You’ll need a memory card with the Core system, but there are plenty of people out there that are willing to save the $60 if they don’t need the extras offered with the complete system.
What is even more alarming is that the announced pricing for the peripherals represents a significant jump in prices. We are seeing cables at $30 and $40, controllers at $40 and $50. Combine this with the surprise announcement regarding third-party accessories and you have a rather aggressive pricing system. I won’t call it gouging, but it’s not far from it; console accessories are very cheap to produce.
Will it work? Possibly. Recent analysis has suggested a bit of inflation with this console generation, and I believe that we might see $60 price points for Xbox 360 games as well. Everything I have seen so far suggests additional revenue streams for Microsoft. I think an ultimatum came from upper management stating that if this generation isn’t profitable, they are going to pull the plug.
Just got a call from a recruiter (finally!) who complimented the hell out of me and set me up with an interview. Hopefully that means I have a good shot at the job. It doesn’t sound too bad (probably not worse than Gamestop), and the commute wouldn’t be bad at all, at least once I move to Naperville. As long as they aren’t paying me shit, this should be good. It seems they mainly recruit candidates with bachelor’s degrees, so I should get a decent salary. I’m optimistic!