From script to page: Validation #275 (Patreon)

This particular comic strip is based on a true story! Back in 2014 Kelci and I attended Intervention Con along with The Webcomic Factory's Tony DiGerolamo. Also in attendance was lawyer friend Bruce Levine. Kelci and I have birthdays that take place on consecutive days (August 23rd and 24th) and they just so happened to line up with the show that weekend. So it was celebration time all around! 

After going out to dinner, we all returned to the con and entered the 24-hour gaming section of the event. One room contained old school arcade consoles that were set for unlimited free play. Who could pass up on that? Upon looking around the space filled with ancient wonders we spied X-Men in the near distance and nodded to each other. The game was on!

What's great about X-Men is you can have up to six players at once. So that evening four of us got the chance to partake in mutant combat at the same time. And with unlimited lives we could get to the end of the game, something I've never never been a part of, nor witnessed accomplished, since it first came out way back in 1992. 

X-Men in all its 32-bit 6-player splendor.

It was truly an epic occasion and one I obviously haven't forgotten. There are those rare moments in time in which good friends and magical events align. One of the themes in Validation is to "take the good times with you". I certainly carry with me the spirit of teamwork and celebration that shined so bright that night. This comic honors that.

Panel 1

The gang are playing a game that requires four players. I picture something like the X-Men arcade machine. Maybe it’s a Tiny Unicorn game, or Rubber Duck -- I leave it to you!

ALLY (CAPTION): This is the furthest we’ve ever gotten on this game. We’re on fire!

Panel 2

Albert looks over at Ally. Dammit, this guy clearly loves everything about her.

ALLY (CAPTION): There’s something about when you’re so close to a magical event happening. The anticipation makes your hands sweaty.

ALLY (CAPTION): But you gotta stay cool until...

Panel 3

The group all high-five after winning the game.

ALLY: OMGee we did it!

ROLANDO: Sweet victory!

KYLE: Yes! We’ve never gotten that close before. And Albert, you took out that last Big Bad with only 9% remaining!

ALBERT: It’s a team effort, guys. I’m just happy we won!