The Epic LifeGame

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Transforming Life into the Ultimate Game
Version 1.03 March 2011

Foreword
Treating Life like a Game is not a brand new concept. Many people from all walks of life, throughout time have lived this way, typically with great to fantastic results. My first memory of gaming was way back in grade two. The game was a variant of Red Rover; I remember being one of the last non-its left, being confronted by a mass of its. The excitement, fear and aliveness I felt was amazing. Id dash forward at these times and have basically no chance of getting across without getting caught, but those one or two times I did, against all odds, were moments of ecstasy in a seven year-old kids life. I then discovered computer games. After that I remember hour after hour, recreating that moment felt in Red Rover, one guy (or myself and a couple of friends) facing stacked odds, that excitement and fun energy, and that feeling of victory over the competition, be it Artificial Intelligence or real humans. The best part was, if we lost; it was just a game and I didnt feel like I had lost in real life. It wasnt a failure; I always learnt something towards making sure I had a much better shot at winning next time. This is what the EPIC LifeGame concept brings to Real Life. We get so caught up in little failures that ultimately have no major bearing on our lives; since this is apparently the one shot we get, we make losing once or twice mean we are some kind of failure, which is actually completely just a matter of perspective. Using the EPIC LifeGame we can choose a favourable perspective, one that increases our chances drastically of winning next time. Its also a system for integrating any and all concepts, philosophies and belief systems in the world. You choose & customise the ones that fit you, make them a part of your EPIC LifeGame, in a balanced, effective manner. Were now living in what many are calling the Decade of Gaming, with the interactive entertainment industry drastically growing, and completely overtaking in many ways, both the movie and music industries. Electronic games like those that allow you to play as a wartime general, commanding an army to take over the world; are doing just that, taking over the entertainment world. Interactive games are great (I had better have that opinion, currently owning a company that makes them ), and provide hours of entertainment. I had always wondered if there was (and over the past few years now created), a way to take the attitudes efforts and enjoyment of games and apply them to the most important thing to most of us, our lives. The EPIC LifeGame concept in its various forms up until now, have served myself and many test groups very well. The overall experience is that Life is less stressful, the plentiful successes more enjoyable, and its ultimate purpose now tangible. My sincere hope is that you begin to officially play your EPIC LifeGame, and know whatever that looks like, its your game. I want to know this foundational manual for Life has served its purpose, of transforming your life financially, intellectually, interpersonally, physically and even spiritually;

so feel free to connect with me on www.facebook.com/elphie or drop me a personal email with your successes and challenges. Game On!

Elphie Coyle, 2010. www.elphie.com.au elphie@elphie.com.au

Contents
Foreword ............................................................................................................................................................. 2 Contents .............................................................................................................................................................. 4 Chapter I Its ALL a Game.................................................................................................................................. 5 Chapter II EPIC LifeGame Key Concepts ........................................................................................................... 8 Chapter III Scoring Systems ............................................................................................................................ 18 Chapter IV - Action ............................................................................................................................................ 20 Chapter V - Fun .................................................................................................................................................. 21 Chapter VI - Growth........................................................................................................................................... 22 Chapter VII - Love .............................................................................................................................................. 23 Chapter VIII - Synergy ........................................................................................................................................ 25 Chapter IX - Financial ......................................................................................................................................... 26 Chapter X - Intellectual ...................................................................................................................................... 27 Chapter XI - Interpersonal ................................................................................................................................. 28 Chapter XII - Physical ......................................................................................................................................... 29 Chapter XIII Spiritual ....................................................................................................................................... 30 Chapter XIV Taking It to the Next Level .......................................................................................................... 32 Note: If you Pirated This QuickGuide ................................................................................................................ 34

Chapter I Its ALL a Game

All Life is an Experiment. The more experiments you make, the Better. - Ralph Waldo Emerson
1.1 - Got Game?
Games; we all play them, in some form or another throughout our lives. What are some examples of whats commonly accepted as a game? Football (all the types in the world) is a physical game where one team tries to get a ball into or through a set of goals and stop the other team from doing the same. CounterStrike is a virtual electronic game where one team of terrorists is holding hostages and the other team of counter-terrorists tries to rescue them. OMNI is another Virtual Game (created by the awesome people at www.ValhallaStudios.com.au ) in which Heros from across time and space, battle for control of the universe at the end of time. Tic-Tac-Toe is a game of taking turns and trying to place three of your markers in a row. Whilst these are what are commonly referred to as games, all games can be defined on its foundational level as what occurs when we attempt to go from one state to another. Anything that has a goal, meets this criteria. Therefore, we can make anything into a game! How far up the corporate ladder we climb could become real life snakes and ladders. How quickly we can hang up the laundry could be a game (that wives would love their husbands to play ).

1.2 - Get Your GameFace On

Did you ever notice what youre like when youre playing a game? Different people act to varying degrees but we all typically show these properties. Competitive: We tend to want to actually win the game and therefore do our very best to do so. Teamwork: If it means we can do better at the game with the help of others, we call on their assistance and synergistically achieve a greater result.

Fun: Most importantly, when we play games we have fun. Theres little to no stressful pressure, its not life or death so we are able to just play.

1.3 - Were All Playing Right Now

The thing that sets our LifeGame apart from regular games is were all playing by default. We can for all intents & purposes avoid participating in life, but thats just losing. We could look at a dark way out of playing, and its deeply upsetting to see anyone end their LifeGame early. So those two sad pathways aside, what were left with is this exciting LifeGame; this ridiculously huge, infinitely complex, yet paradoxically simple game. It can be said that the rules given in a game will make a game fun or not, deep or simple, easy or hard. The best part of this game is that we create the rules, whether were conscious of this choice or not. To completely get into the why? of this is beyond the scope of this quickguide, its suggested that you just play with this concept as we progress, and see if it becomes the truth for you. So, if we can create the rules to this game, why not let them be rules that make the game fun. Let them be rules that make our life have a rich abundance of game-types, let the challenge be at a level just beyond our current skill, causing us to need to grow to meet it. This is all available to us and the EPIC LifeGame Rules allow this to be done as easily as possible.

1.4 - Winning or Losing?

Once we understand that its all a game were playing all the time, the next logical question would be how do you know youre winning? EPIC LifeGame looks at three methods of gaining that understanding: Your Perception You can ask yourself honestly, how are you doing? Are you happy with the results, could they be better? Your Perception is arguably the most important, because at the end of the day your experience matters most to you and has the most bearing on the outcome of your life itself. Others Perception Thankfully, were all not hermits in life; and therefore we can gain the diverse perceptions and opinions of others. Keep in mind theyre just opinions, and opinions are as different as the shapes of snowflakes. Also, like snowflakes, peoples opinions can be quite flaky at times. That said, one can gain a consensus from a number of friends, family and fans; to piece together an opinion that is representative of this collective anarchy of thoughts. EPIC LifeGame Statistics Lastly we have the EPIC LifeGame Statistics. These methods of calculation and representation come from years of discussions, research and field testing. The purpose is to gain an understanding of both how balanced and how forwarding our lives are. Weve chosen (or had chosen for us) a multitude of different aspects of varying importance over the aeons (years), and the Characteristics and Skill Trees cover all of these in some fashion.

1.5 - Forever Updated

Most methodologies about making life amazing create unchanging principals. This is typically what the book is known for. What sets the EPIC LifeGame apart, is that it is forever evolving and improving; never stuck on any principal except that of seeking the evolving or improving of itself. New versions and revisions of the methodology will continue to improve, and even some of the main aspects are expected to change. This is similar to how a video game or piece of software is updated. Only this way can we create a way to approach life that takes into account each and every individual within the game. We all get to play the role of the game designer, who creates the game as he or she pleases.

Chapter II EPIC LifeGame Key Concepts

Life is like a game of cards. The hand you are dealt is determinism; the way you play it is free will. - Jawaharlal Nehru
2.1 - Purpose & Definition of EPIC LifeGame
The Purpose of the EPIC LifeGame methodology is to cause the world to be aware of it, and have all Players become Heroes, by shifting into a system of living that drastically increases their quality and quantity of life. The Definition of The EPIC LifeGame is it is initially a means of transforming life into the ultimate game; by firstly realising we all already play it, and then becoming a Hero by choosing to play to win. We then begin to track and reflect on our progress; during which we seek other methodologies (expansion packs) which easily integrate with the EPIC LifeGame core methodology, creating an experience of life that is beyond mere words. As a result of this gaming, a player will naturally start to get rewarded by the game; these results may show up as:

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Expansion Pack: Many great games end up having more content added to the core game. This gets released as an expansion pack, which purchased separately and when loaded onto the original game, creates new and different experiences, without having to release a whole new game.

Financially: A bigger bank balance through capital acquisition & increased cashflow, less stress over not having enough. Intellectually: Less dead and destructive thought time, quicker results in activities requiring thought, wisdom for dealing effectively with issues, arguably a higher IQ. Interpersonally: More fulfilling friendships, popularity, deeper one-on-one relationships. Physically: Living longer, having more energy daily, looking more attractive. Spiritually: Gaining a greater purpose, life becomes brighter, believing in an eternal purpose & life.

2.2 - Playing an EPIC LifeGame instead of a mediocre one

Why the EPICness? Well if were going to create a game, why not have it be the best one imaginable? Let your life become something Epic, defined as:

EPIC (adj): Very imposing or impressive; surpassing the ordinary (especially in size or scale). Ref, TheSages English Dictionary and Thesaurus Sounds like a great life yeah? Well having an EPIC LifeGame is more than just playing the game; its playing to win. And the enemy is mediocrity. Mediocrity is my personal immortal enemy. Ive had mediocrity creep in at times in my life, in relationships, in business, even in gaming itself. Looking back these times have been the most boring, pathetic and just plain saddest points in my life. We try so hard to get to a point of comfort in life, out of ruts or rat races, that once we reach it, we tend to just stop. We then either get slip back into another rut or find a way to keep things as they are and therefore become mediocre. Mediocrity takes the zest out of the action, the aliveness out of life. Some of us unfortunately arent even at the level of mediocre. Sometimes this is for understandable reasons; debts are piled high, and truly sad things such as death and incapacitation of ourselves or loved ones, can happen either through accident or evil. If this is the case I empathise and encourage you to recreate your perspective and yourself constantly until those things barely if at all affect you. I also advise seeking council as many people are out there whove devoted their lives to supporting educating you through and out of these times. Its not often I go completely against the grain of a thought seemingly belonging to a significant part portion of a generation, as the EPIC LifeGame methodology is one that incorporates and accepts rather than fights, but Im going to on this point and dont apologise for this as it needs to be said. More tragic than those who feel they have troubles imposed on them, are those who have none and yet still feel down. Theres a culture of pessimism building in society, primarily in those whove had no real struggle to overcome, since everything has been on a silver platter. Its quite scary to consider the implications of this pathetic culture if it gets out of hand. Seriously, get half a taste of what appreciating life is, one can go work in McDonalds or a factory for a bit, living out of home and avoiding government benefits for six months. If one wants to cure unappreciative pessimism totally, spend a year in a third world country. Life is amazing; half the journey is simply a matter of perspective and attitude. Being at a stage below mediocrity or pessimism doesnt disqualify one from playing an EPIC LifeGame, on the contrary one stands to gain more by playing. Just be ready as it just may be more of a challenge to get their LifeGame to an Epic level. In our tests we havent yet had pessimistics go from pessimistic to Epic (theyve all been too busy being sad to give it a real go), so Id personally love to hear of any world first triumphs of the sort.

2.3 - Level 0 Explained

Level 0 is where we all start in our LifeGame, some of us with no idea that were playing a game, others not enjoying a heck of a lot and all not operating at full capacity. Theres nothing wrong with level 0, we all need to start somewhere, the question is do we want to stay there?

2.4 - Level 1 Explained

The definition of a Level 1 understanding of the EPIC LifeGame concept is: Level 1 Qualification: Understand the EPIC LifeGame concept on its base level and confirm which components you already have alive and active in your life currently. You begin to consciously play your LifeGame. Accumulated 20XP in the EPIC LifeGame Foundations Quickguide Mini Game. (explained later in this chapter) A Level 1 understanding means you recognise all its key components in your life. Simply by gaining this understanding youll start having a more amazing life. They say that knowing is half the battle and this certainly rings true for EPIC LifeGame. This is the foundational knowledge every person should have about their lives. For this reason, the Level 1 knowledge is available free to everyone; give away the Foundation QuickGuide to anyone whos open to and wants an amazing life.

2.5 - Level 2 Explained

Level 2 is not included in the Foundations Quick Guide, its the meat of the Basic Rulebook. If you enjoy and want more of the EPIC LifeGame, preorder your own Basic Rulebook either online or from a recommended reseller. Level 2 Qualification: Understand the EPIC LifeGame concept to a degree that will enable you to action it in your life and have on hand, many powerful triggers to maintain them. You begin to play your LifeGame on a level noticeable to others who dont understand the concept. Level 2 is for people really wanting to have more than a mediocre life. All Level 2 knowledge and skills can be regarded as basic, and its amazing to note how much a difference a balanced understanding of the basics will make to our experience and results in life. The EPIC LifeGame Basic Rulebook has been compiled to provide this information in a centralised, structured manner. Income collected by those purchasing the Rulebook go towards developing the higher, more advanced levels of EPIC LifeGame.

2.6 - Making Anything a Mini-Game

Whilst anything can be made a game, there are more things that most accepted games have that make a more enjoyable, memorable experience. Scoreboard: How else does one know whether theyre winning? Players: From one upwards, the number of people participating and able to directly influence the outcome. Rules: What is and isnt allowed? What happens when someone does something that isnt an allowed part of the game? Rules give us boundaries to play in. There are more aspects covered later and in the Basic Rulebook, but with the above implemented into any scenario; suddenly everyday things can become Mini-Games.

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Mini-Game: In many largescale video games, a MiniGame is a smaller game within the bigger game. These can be a hidden or fluidly incorporated into the bigger different mechanic, and provide a different experience for the player

What are you like when it comes to public speaking? Imagine youre up there in front of hundreds of people giving a speech on something very important to you. What are you feeling? Youve prepared for days on what youll talk about. Youre wondering what all the people out there are thinking: Will they like me? Is what I have to say going to be interesting to them? A lot of us in this situation would be nervous. Some would be the opposite. Why is that? The reason is those people are either consciously or unconsciously thinking a way that has them be. One of the ways they could think is that its all just a Mini-Game. Lets turn public speaking into a Mini-Game. The Goal is to have everyone completely enjoy learning about your topic. The Scoreboard could be how many people clap and the volume at which they do at the end. Youre the number 1 and only Player, and the Rules are simple. In this game you can use specific strategies like animated talking, smiling and enjoying yourself. By doing these things youll be far more likely to Score more by the end. Mini-Game: Assimilation of the EPIC LifeGame Foundation Guide / Rulebook Now that we understand Mini-Games within EPIC LifeGame, we can put it straight in to practice by turning assimilating this guide into a mini-game. The Rules are as follows: Reading a Foundations part of a chapter = 1 XP

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XP (Experience Points) : In a lot of games where you play a fictional character, XP is a representation of how much eXPerience you have, how much of a Veteran youve become.

Make a Facebook/Twitter/MySpace Status update to inform friends about something youve gained from reading = 2 XP Discuss for at least 30mins a chapter with a friend, family member or fan = 3 XP

See how many points you can score in a week, your time starts now and yes you can count chapter 1 so youve got a 1 Point start. Once youve accumulated 20 points youre entitled to printing and proudly owning the certificate at the back of the guide.

2.7 - Heroes and Players

In the EPIC LifeGame, there is distinct difference between Heroes and Players. A player is every person on planet Earth whos alive (everyone). What makes a Hero is primarily a Player who realizes that he is one. The best path towards really getting this is to read, enjoy and think about the rest of this Foundations QuickGuide. Any player in this LifeGame becomes a hero when one realizes his capacity and control over his destiny. This understanding alone, if truly contemplated and assimilated will begin, with zest, the process of coming out of mediocrity and into EPICness.

2.8 - Characteristics
There are two sets of primary aspects to keep in mind when playing the EPIC LifeGame; Characteristics & Skill Trees. Characteristics are your inherent components to an amazing Life. They are: Action Fun Growth Love Synergy The amazing thing about Characteristics is your strength in them is primarily up to your own Free Will. In other words you choose how much of them you want to have and been known to have. To increase Characteristics, further understand and develop your unlimited potential of each within. Being Your EPIC LifeGame, Characteristics are customisable and interchangeable. The five above a great foundation, but you may find one of the below more fitting (these are adapted from the book Now, Discover Your Strengths). Characteristic Achiever Activator Adaptability Analytical Arranger Description A relentless need for achievement. "When can we start?" is a recurring question in your life. You live in the moment. "Prove it. Show me why what you are claiming is true." You are a conductor.

Belief Command Communication Competition Connectedness Context Deliberative Developer Discipline Empathy Fairness Focus Futuristic Harmony Ideation Inclusiveness Individualization Input Intellection Learner Maximizer Positivity Relater Responsibility Restorative Self-assurance Significance Strategic Woo

You have certain core values that are enduring. You take charge. You like to explain, to describe, to host, to speak in public, and to write. You have a need to outperform your peers. You know that we are all connected. You look back to understand the present. You identify, assess, and reduce risk. You see the potential in others. Your world needs to be ordered and planned. You can sense the emotions of those around you. Balance is important to you. Your goals are your compass. "Wouldnt it be great if " The future fascinates you. You look for areas of agreement. You are fascinated by ideas. "Stretch the circle wider." You can to include people and make them feel like part of the group. Youre intrigued by the unique qualities of each person. You collect information words, facts, books and quotations. You like to think. You like mental activity. You love to learn. Excellence, not average, is your measure. You are generous with praise, quick with smile, and always on the look out for the positive in the situation. You derive a great deal of pleasure and strength from being around your close friends. You take psychological ownership for anything you commit to, and you feel emotionally bound to follow it through to completion. You love to solve problems. You have faith in your strengths. You want to be very significant in the eyes of other people. You sort through clutter and find the best route. You win others over.

You only officially have 5 Characteristics at any one time and this allows focus on the strongest of all (or a couple you wish to develop). Rely primarily on your best characteristics but be open to improving those youve been weak in up until now.

2.9 Skill Trees

Skill Trees are the five different areas of Life one can learn and master. They are: Financial Intellectual Interpersonal Physical Spiritual.

To increase your skills in Skill Trees requires consistent effort and challenging yourself. Seek harder and larger requirements and responsibilities in each area to gain more mastery in each.

2.10 - Alignment (Fire & Ice)

The polarities of the EPIC LifeGame. This is covered in detail in the Basic Rulebook but so you have a foundational understanding, this is basically what values you align yourself to. Anything that is a perceived opposite and different thing, but is actually just two different extremes of the same thing is an Alignment. For example nature and progress; these are both necessary for our EPIC LifeGames but can counteract each other. Thus to get the full benefits, we need to maintain a balanced integration between the two. If this is done it creates a synergy and they both benefit. Other examples include: hedonism and organisation, or elitism and altruism. The problem arises when we think one Alignment is the be all and end all, and see the opposite as evil. Consider that it could actually be that both alignments are neither good nor bad. This is not a reason to say something that is evil is ok, bear in mind the golden rule (accepted across the ages and in all major belief systems): Regard your neighbours gain as your own gain, and your neighbours loss as your Character Sheet: A Character own loss. Sheet in a game is a list of the

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2.11 - Onboard System Analysers

The Onboard System Analysers (OSA), are your own built in Character Sheet. Each finger and thumb represents either a Characteristic or a Skill Tree. If you recognise them as this, at any time day or night you can trigger an overview of how you are rating in that aspect. A diagram on the next page and at the beginning of each Characteristic and Skill Tree chapter, shows the positioning of the different aspects.

characters attributes, personality traits and equipment. Anything of personal or practical value would also be listed on this.

When first learning how to use your OSA, it is worth using a felt tip pen to write the first letter or two of each aspect on your fingers, just above the knuckle as a reminder. Do this every day for a week and if you arent allowed to do it during the day for work/lack of confidence reasons, simply doing it when you get home from work will suffice. If youre game to do it during the day, and someone asks you about them, that would constitute the perfect chance to have a conversation about something awesome, like you making your life amazing; rather than just chit chat about Britneys latest escapade or the latest soccer match. In order to full understand the EPIC LifeGame, these OSAs need to become as important as the very fingers and hands themselves; vital parts to functioning effectively and efficiently in the LifeGame. We get so caught up in a few areas of interest or demand (those thrust upon us by life), whilst other just-as-important areas get left untouched, for days, years, aeons. Mastering this most important trigger is what will give us balance, focus and enjoyment of life.

2.12 - Quests/Missions
Many of us have to do lists, Outlook/diary appointments etc. To those this will be a new context for these, and to those who dont have these old school techniques for time management, your world is about to change. An EPIC Hero of an EPIC LifeGame had to get the Epicness from somewhere, this renowned acknowledgment for accomplishments. He does this by going on various quests or missions, which have an impact on the world. In RPGs a player is assigned various tasks to do, such as taking a letter to someone, or battling a dragon. We take this concept of a Quest and apply it to our LifeGame. At the start of each day you have your quest list, which includes:

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RPG : Role Playing Game. These games involved playing a role of someone of renown. The player takes on their characteristics and personality traits, and plays as that new person.

Name of the Quest: Come up with a creative title that inspires you to attempting the quest. Deadline: This is the final time you know you have to complete the quest. Rewards: Always ensure you give yourself a tangible reward for completing your Quest, one worthy of a Hero. This reward can be as simple as a Mars bar, as elegant as buying a Louis Vuitton or as expensive as an island. Choose a reward relevant to the scale and monetary income directly gained from doing it. You can even include bonus for early completion of your Quest, rewarding you for extra excellence.

2.13 - Class
Your class in EPIC LifeGame is your Lifes purpose stated as a role, generally in just one or two words. This is most likely different to what you do for a living at the moment. Unfortunately with societys current structure a lot of us arent doing what we would do if we had the freedom to whatever we wanted in life. Therefore your class is a statement of who you are at your core.

If I was to give what I believe is my class is and to do it with healthy selfesteem, not false humility, it would be a Philosophic Commander. If I were to be playful I could even call my class Paladin. Be playful, creative and proud of what you come up with, this is for your LifeGame after all, why should you let the world tell you at your core youre a Cleaner or Office Clerk (a noble, humble class if you felt the desire to be that) if thats not who you feel you are or want to be deep down. You may need to adjust it for pubic as they may not understand the term you come up with for yourself. For example in the general public eyes Im known as a Creator, Business owner and Philosopher as these are at least somewhat familiar. As you play your EPIC LifeGame review and meditate on your class weekly. Are your daily quests allowing you to be your class? Youll find you have a natural affinity and passion towards any task that is connected to your class. An overall goal of the EPIC LifeGame is to be in a position within it where you get to completely become your class; in thought, action and results. All day, every day.

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Co-Op: A Co-Op game is where human players team up against many non-human enemies.

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Versus: Versus is a mode of Gaming where one or more humans are pitted against one or more other humans. Typically conditions are equalled on both sides.

2.14 - Playing with Others Co-op and Versus

We now live a very connected world. Facebook, Online Gaming and the Mobile Phone create instantaneous communication between the Players in the LifeGame and we have exponentially increased the web of contacts within our reach. This is no longer a Single-Player game. In fact its very hard, nay impossible to do very well in the LifeGame without other players. Theres four ways we can view other players in the LifeGame: TeamMates, Allies, Neutrals or Enemies.

TeamMates: These guys are your Brothers in Arms. They have very similar if not same goals, and are more than willing to share the rewards with you. Theyll even take a hit to their bank balance or other setbacks for you, as they know youd do the same for them. They could be fellow workmates or your employees, family members, or trustworthy friends (Best Friends). Either way, you both know youre playing on the same team. Allies: Allies are contacts of yours that call you friend. They will assist you as long as it doesnt cause them detriment, and recognise the power of a synergistic alliance. Treat these people with love & openness and they may even join your team, but be wary as they could also turn into enemies if they so choose. These people could be suppliers or customers if youre in business, people worthy of being a Facebook friend, or anyone youve formed a contract relationship with.

Neutrals: The largest category for most (unless youre a Celebrity) this is the very grey area. Spend between seven seconds (the time it takes to form an initial impression on someone) to any more than about an hour with these people and they will most likely change categories. This category includes people you havent met yet and those that havent had enough exposure to you to form a solid opinion. Enemies: These people do not want you to win at your game. In fact they may even go out of their way to ensure your game is hard, stressful and *insert expletive here*. One needs to be very mindful of whats said, and if blatantly damaged by them, need to be swift and complete in either retaliation or better still cutting off contact. That said, through patience, understanding and little bite sized pieces of trust that are honoured, unfortunates in this category can be realigned to a more favourable one. Dependant on your charisma, honour, your bank balance and most importantly your perspective; you may have vastly different numbers of players in these categories. Use your better, rational judgement when categorising and communicating with those youre unsure of, youll be surprised at how well some people think of you. In the end common sense should kick in when it comes to where you should regard most people, as we all know one will always do better with more TeamMates and fewer enemies. Its just pure maths.

Chapter III Scoring Systems

Money was never a big motivation for me, except as a way to keep score. The real excitement is playing the game. - Donald Trump
3.1 - Why Score?
The purpose of the on and offline scoring systems are to bring tangible feedback on your progress in the LifeGame. These scoring systems will motivate, challenge and inform you on how youre doing overall in your LifeGame. Were constantly refining the system to make it practical and reflective of whats actually going on. Theres a difficult paradigm to deal with, in that how most people define winning is through their own perspectives and this has great bearing on how people score themselves. If you keep in mind that this system is here to serve you, not you serve it, youll avoid getting guilty or angry at it, or cheating with your results, as that will achieve nothing. It helps to make scoring a Quests at first, and to have another friend hold you accountable to taking score. You can even become a bit competitive with your scores. Dont make it mean anything more than a little friendly competition though, as the purpose is to have you consistently scoring, since scoring is currently very subjective. Truly objective scoring, will take an amazing level of technology and will be part of what truly completes the EPIC LifeGame concept to the degree Ive envisioned for it. Until then, weve got the Free Online System and the EPIC LifeGame Character Sheet.

3.2 - Using the Free Online System

The EPIC LifeGame Free Online Scoring system is a massive creation in progress. Were constantly refining how and what it measures. As such Instructions for use are within the App itself. Upon release of the App (when its ready is the current release date, but know we want it as much as you) it will be readily available from www.epiclifegame.com . The more people we see using the Free Online System and giving feedback the more well build and expand on this system. Were considering adding Virtual Gameplay elements like unlocking items and the ability to go on quests, full Facebook integration, and an iPhone App. Continue to spread the word about the EPIC LifeGame methodology, including the website, and it will grow for your practical enjoyment and everyone elses.

3.3 - Using the Free Offline System

The EPIC LifeGame Character sheet is an Excel document that covers the basics of what can be scored in a day.

The latest downloadable version of it is available free on www.epiclifegame.com. Using it is rather simple. Open the file in Microsoft Excel, edit the Activities fields to your wants and needs. Then either: Print the Scoresheet. Manually pen in each action you take each day and tally at the end of the week appropriately. Resave a copy of the Document under a new name that includes the week ending date. Then open the new file and enter 1s for each activity you took, the spreadsheet will automatically calculate totals for you. Remember this game is also being created by you. Test groups had the proviso that you can only do each activity once a day to score a point; trial it this way and see how perfect you can score in a week. Also experiment with changing the rules of the game at the start of a week and see how fun you can make your LifeGame. The great thing about the offline system is we can accumulate feedback and ideas easily. If you have any thoughts on refining the Scoring system edit the excel spreadsheet and send it back on www.epiclifegame.com . Well review all enhancements and periodically release updates.

Chapter IV - Action
It was character that got us out of bed, commitment that moved us into action, and discipline that enabled us to follow through. - Zig Ziglar

4.1 - Without Action what is there? If there is no brain or bodily activity on a human we become known as clinically dead. Therefore action is what shows us were physically and mentally alive. Action can be a scary word for people because they relate it to hard work or effort. What about going to the movies, thats an action but most would hardly see that as hard work. Making love is definitely an action, quite a physical one at that, but one most sane people enjoy . The trick is to realise action is just things in motion. Be it brain cells thinking, legs and arms moving, hearts beating, its all action. Action is happening all the time and typically the more action that happens, the better. Mastering action involves loving being in the state as well as choosing which actions are best. We can manage about five to seven thoughts under normal conditions, so start to become aware of these thoughts, and focus your attention (directing your thought action) onto better thoughts. The same goes for physical actions, if you want to bulk up, theres many options. Many people take the option of not doing anything, which really doesnt accomplish what we want. Some people do push-ups, since the gym is too far, but due to the lack of proper equipment, end up working out for much longer than it would have taken to get there and back. Some, whove mastered action, would recognise the benefits and efficiency getting onto specialised equipment, designed to make bulking up easier. Theyd take the minor action of getting some protein powder and mixing a concoction to maximise growth. Overall theyd take more Actions, knowing that theyre a bucket load more enjoyable than the experience of being weak and unhealthy. So next time youre considering taking Action, give your little finger on your left hand a tug and think through, how can I do this efficiently taking into account the long term and how can I enjoy this so I love every moment of doing it?.

Chapter V - Fun
I never did a day's work in my life. It was all fun. - Thomas A. Edison

5.1 - Fun; just seeing hearing or saying the word brings positive feelings to all but the most mediocre/negative. Typically we only see as fun what others expect us to, what society places in the Fun category, which doesnt leave us with many options. What can we do to change this? Quite simply all we need do is realise that what is fun is entirely up to us. If we go to play a game, were instantly on the lookout for the Fun elements promised in it. Granted, some games dont deliver, but our expectation of fun is actually a huge contributor to the acquirement of it. So if we can take that Lookout for Fun factor, and apply it to our everyday lives, anything can become fun. Lets take an extreme example of working in a warehouse, arguably one of the most boring, un-fun jobs. Seeing how many boxes you can pack in an hour, and then trying to beat your high score; would constitute a fun way of packing boxes, yes? By the by, start acting like that when it comes to your career, and its pretty much guaranteed you wont be packing boxes for long That said exercising a level of choosiness when it comes to what you do with your time should play a factor. If you have two options and one is more fun, even though it may cost a bit more time or money (if it is spare), it would be worth considering the one that delivers more enjoyment. Always endeavour to increase the amount of socially accepted fun, as it will take less willpower to maintain the level of fun, and you can spend that willpower considering other factors. Lastly, the best external indicator of fun is quite a simple one. How big is your smile? Your body should physically react to the fun youre creating and experiencing, and if you know youre having fun and its not showing; try letting go of looking good in front of others, start feeling the fun across your entire body more, or discovering whatever is holding you back from the full physical experience that is fun.

Chapter VI - Growth
Those who improve with age embrace the power of personal growth and personal achievement and begin to replace youth with wisdom, innocence with understanding, and lack of purpose with selfactualization. - Bo Bennett

6.1 - Growth. Biologically speaking there seems no greater imperative for life. Weve come from practically nothing, whether you believe that practically nothing was a twinkle in Gods divine eye, or a pea sized thingy that Big Banged into the Universe. Both of these primary thoughts on the mystery of our source started as miniscule things and become the greatness that is life today. Even your own life is a fantastic example of the growth all beings seem to hunger for. Our biological bodies, ego, rational mind and soul all seek it, so why deny it? The biggest reason I put to you that we dont grow is fear. Fear of Failing, fear of hurting, Fear of Dying. Fear, Fear, FEAR!! Even reading that might give you the tingles. Now, those tingles youre experiencing, what do they really mean? Do they mean freeze up? Do they mean turn away and stop reading now? Well I hope not, as youd need the next bit the most. No, most of us would, thankfully as theyre just words; realise (or start to) that our minds are actually telling us to exercise caution. A lot of the time, because of past experiences or hurts; embarrassments at school or misunderstandings, we translate fear into an indicator to stop growing. Once we understand on a deep, primal level that the true purpose of fear is just a warning system, we can start to grow towards our full potentials (which are infinite, but thats another topic). Theres a saying that true courage is not eliminating fear, but acting in spite of it. Thats not to say we should just straight out act, as the fear is there to warn us and cause us to think, so we dont receive whatever bad thing happened last time. Its actually an indicator that we can grow in this situation, do something differently to what we did last time, and have an outcome we can be proud of. So by mastering Fear and taking it as a chance to grow, well start to see results, unimaginable in our current state of mind taking place. We start to meet those we didnt think us worthy of interacting with, take smart risks that gain us reward well beyond playing it totally safe, and start experiencing Life on a whole new level, free of anxiety and doubt. Its grow time baby, yeah.

Chapter VII - Love

Love is a game that two can play and both win. - Eva Gabor

7.1 - Love is one of the most intimidating subjects to write on, as its so diverse, indescribable and just so darn great. Love is the thing that makes playing this game truly worth playing. It takes many forms and you know what, Im just going to straight out copy what Love is for me from a favourite text of mine, see if you recognise it. Love is patient; Love is kind and envies no one. Love is never boastful, nor conceited, nor rude; never selfish, not quick to take offense. There is nothing Love cannot face; there is no limit to its faith, its hope, and endurance. In a word, there are three things that last forever: faith, hope, and Love; but the greatest of them all is Love. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7,13 Ponder that for more than just a while (especially if youve never read it) and there really isnt much more to say to describe love. If youre not feeling enough love; dont just tug on your left forefinger, go find a person you know loves you (if you truly feel you know no one right now, track me down!) and let them know youre genuinely, seriously not feeling loved. Now, hang on to the moment that follows; store it up in your head and heart, and relive it any time you feel that way again. Problem temporarily solved. To solve it practically permanently, requires an opposite approach. People who give away and generate love for others usually have no problems with feeling love themselves. Think of the greatest things you can easily do for others, and go do them! The simplest thing you could do is just tell someone you love them, and mean it. Youll not just make a difference in their world, but

become full with love yourself. The great thing about love is it compounds far greater than leaving your money in the bank, and will multiply endlessly if youll let it. Love, Elphie.

Chapter VIII - Synergy

Synergy: The interaction of two or more agents or forces so that their combined effect is greater than the sum of their individual effects. - Dictionary.com

8.1 Synergy is an amazing thing to see in action. Chemically, scientists are constantly on the lookout for better components that will work together when combined in a concoction enhancing the potions overall ability. In the social or business world, take two amazing people whose personalities and skill sets complement each other, connect them, and watch them produce results far above and beyond their singular capacities. A few of us have the view that; if you want something done right, do it yourself. Thats just bad management. If you have this perspective, consider what you could be doing to synergise with others to create the result, faster and better and with less of your own personal effort and time. We truly can create and accomplish more with others, its simple numbers and most dont need to be convinced of this. The trick is in ensuring that it ends up being less effort and time overall rather than more. Dilution occurs when someone or something is added to the group that doesnt add anything or actually takes away from the group. As a side note, anything that doesnt add is by default taking away from the group, if anything because its taking up space. This is true for business, social, even anything that has more than one component. Your left hand thumb is a trigger to considering the Synergy present in any situation you find yourself in. Pulling on it will give you perspective to see what can be said or done to ensure a greater result that all things apart.

Chapter IX - Financial
In most cases, when people make more money, they get deeper in debt. This is why money alone does not make you rich. - Robert Kiyosaki

9.1 - Money, Money, Money. What goes through your head when you think of it? They say that money cant buy happiness, but it sure buys a feeling thats close. Whether we love or hate money, our society is built on it (for now). Even if our Society wasnt built on the flow of $$$, most of the skills needed to create a lot of income would still get us far in the LifeGame. The Financial skill tree, given the structure of society, if mastered, can bring immense reward. Being a financially controlled world, those whove contributed to creating the system we have today would have logically made it most beneficial to them, yes? A quick look at Australian Taxation and company laws, shows how much less business owners get taxed, and the benefits they get. Now given, business owners provide the jobs and employment for workers thus keeping society afloat, but if you have a streak of entrepreneurship in your blood, it would make perfect sense to own a business (or part of one). That said, being financially liable and at the risk of potential great long term hurt if not done right, isnt something to cough at. One way to build yourself to taking on a Company with many employees and obligations is to start small. Becoming a Consultant or even becoming part of a Multi Level Marketing company will show Financial Skill Tree improvement, primarily as its a relatively safe place to play around with the pro game of business. Just dont go calling your friends demanding you have the answer to all their lifes problems through your Easy to Build to Millions! MLM business. Do that and youre doing a severe detriment to your Interpersonal skill tree, many of us have been there. Instead, give them the EPIC LifeGame Concept for free (shameless plug) . Other avenues to consider which are covered in detail in the Basic section include: Controlling your personal finances (Which is actually a micro form of business). Real Estate, which creates long term income as well as a solid capital base. Share Market, an avenue Im currently politically against being a part of, but will provide a background and base understanding for those interested. So if youve always thought youd be limited to a 9-5 career as being your only source of financial nourishment, think again, think 21st Century and think outside that box.

Chapter X - Intellectual
Don't leave home without your sword - your intellect. - Alan Moore

10.1 - Intelligence is so underrated. Without intelligence we would simply be animals or arguably below that of them, as most people regard intelligence as the ability to understand and profit from experience; which dogs for one case, can do. Typically we view intelligence as what the intellectuals, those with high verbal/rational/strategic intelligence have framed it to be. It seems in unintentional retaliation, society has made high intelligence seem like a bad thing. Those with a high social intelligence, aka the cool kids at school; picked on the nerds, many of whom funnily enough, ended up being the bosses of so called cool kids for the rest of their working lives. Speaking from experience now, I had an average social intelligence and an above average rational intelligence in high school. When given the choice of being one of the Kings of the Nerds or the lowest of the Jocks; I chose the former, probably for obvious ego benefits. In retrospect, both pathways would have been valid, and things might be very different if I chose the other path. The reason for this is that I found out early on that theres more than one kind of intelligence, many more and no one is greater in stature than another. We break all these up in the Basic Rulebook, but the key is that intelligence probably isnt anything like what you were taught it was in high school. If you can learn from your experiences, and have an intention of gaining more intelligence across all areas and specialising in those of interest, thats the smartest one can be. So, drop any Im not smart enough rubbish, even if a doctor has told you this. Find your areas of strength and build those, as well as looking at turning upside down any areas of perceived intellectual weakness. Humanity has no idea of the capacity of the human mind, and the biggest limit we could have, is to think we have one.

Chapter XI - Interpersonal
A cardinal principle of total quality escapes too many managers: you cannot continuously improve interdependent systems and processes until you progressively perfect interdependent, interpersonal relationships. - Stephen Covey

11.1 - Who would we be without friends, family and acquaintances? Wed probably either be a hermit or a rather bad person; as either we would have disowned everyone by living in solitude, or they disowned us for good reason. Our interpersonal connections form so much of who we are. They (I love constant reference to this They, who is They anyway? ) say that you can tell a lot about someone by the company they keep. Whether we like to hear it or not, we choose who we want to associate with, they dont force us to be around them with a gun to our heads. With that in mind, who do you associate with? What do you both provide to the connection? Interpersonal connections are a two way street, even public ones. They scale all the way from entertainers and educators, giving their accumulated wisdom to the masses and hopefully getting cash and fame in return; to the greatest example of relationship, that being with an individual you call Partner/Girfirend & Boyfriend/Soul Mate, whatever the title. All of these flourish and die based on added value. If an educator/inspirer stops providing quality education/inspiration or a celebrity stops doing stupid or outrageous things in public, theyll find their fame and money leaves just as quickly. In the same way we can so easily take for granted a one on one partnership, as theyre around all the time and we think can typically wait till later to build on the connection. One day the lack of Love and Connection will cause the relationship to wither and die. Have a little tug on your Right Middle finger and ponder for a while. Ensure youre not giving that Right Middle finger, to your important relationships The best way to have flourishing Interpersonal connections is to ensure youre giving as much as you can, considering what the connection can handle. Im not talking about being socially unaware and telling your potential girlfriend you love her on the first date; but it seems the more willpower we put into nourishing a relationship, through opening up, listening, and loving, the faster it grows. Funny that.

Chapter XII - Physical

God gave me a great body and it's my duty to take care of my physical temple. - Jean Claude Van Damme

12.1 - The Physical Skill Tree doesnt just relate to working out in the gym; its concerning all of Physical Reality and how we interact with it. Physical Reality is a funny thing in this Digital Age. Most of us have an online persona on Facebook, an email account and watch favourite shows on TV. The concern comes when these become our whole lives, where everything is digitized. We developed our bodies to this form for a reason, and the reason hasnt been completely replaced by computers and robots just yet. We use our bodies to interact, enjoy and control the world around us. Some hardcore gamers and TV watchers would argue; that going and doing something virtually is close enough to experiencing it real life, but it really isnt, yet. Challenge yourself to get up, out and be physical: Venture out of our urban comfort zones and spend some quality time with nature; either go Camping or even just go for a long walk in the forest. Have a GPS handy though, I dont want any missing persons on my hands. Skydive and feel the richer, raw adrenalin pumping through your body, as you jump out of a perfectly working plane, into thin air. For anyone with fear of death, you can be assured your tandem instructor has never failed at his job. Kiss and make out with someone youre attracted to. Its highly suggested that they be attracted to you too! Let go of your mind, get lost in the sensations and feel the endorphins course through your entire being. The obvious warnings apply; I dont want any unintentional offspring because of my statements either. To be straight with you, Physical has always been personally weakest Skill Tree up until around 2010. Ive gone for virtual experiences most of my life up until about five years ago; primarily since I was rather sheltered by my loving mother and secondarily from a lack of money. It gives me grave chills to consider the human race in 50 years being overweight, ugly and unsanitary beings, living life from their beds. Lets ensure that doesnt happen to humanity, starting with ourselves.

Chapter XIII Spiritual

If we are to go forward, we must go back and rediscover those precious values - that all reality hinges on moral foundations and that all reality has spiritual control. - Martin Luther King, Jr.

13.1 - Spiritual stuff. This topic unfortunately gets the most controversy. Everyone has their own (perhaps really just others regurgitated) dogmas or belief structures. Most believe that we were either created or just evolved out of a tiny hyper-dense pea. Whether we believe a higher being is influencing our reality or if you believe that we are the highest form of intelligence in the universe dont actually matter when it comes to this Skill Tree. Consider the possibility that either may be the truth, neither will be proven anytime soon, and therefore both sides might be worth a little peek into. Whether we like to admit it or not, there are things unexplained by the science of today, unaccepted by the majority of society today that impact our realities. This focus on the hidden and unknown is regarded as spiritual. Also coming under this Skill Tree would be any Self-Discovery or deliberate change to our who we are. This is not to say we should neglect our Intellectual Skill Trees. A key to winning the LifeGame (if not the central one) is to grow them all with balance and perhaps specialise in one. Keep in mind if you specialise in growing this Skill Tree, society could regard you as weird or even crazy, dependant on the societys beliefs and what you choose to explore. Hundreds of years ago we all knew the world was flat, until one man, regarded as a lunatic, showed that there werent dragons and the end of the earth as there were at the edge of the maps. Now, each and every (I hope) one of us, would now think someone was crazy to think its flat because of the maps, globes, or extra terrestrial views of the world we now have. Many of us today have now heard of the Law of Attraction, I wonder how long it will take before we regard those who dont believe it, pessimistic lunatics? This applies for every single thing we regard as truth today. We have a Map/World View of certain realities that get changed automatically when enough people in the world have a new map of reality proven to them (preferably through science). If none of us ever dared to truly think outside the box wed all still be back in the dark ages.

So heres the thing, you may not have even considered any focus on this Skill Tree before now, or been embarrassed to admit you do. Take a dip or swim out further into the unknown, ensure you know how to get back to the shore of Societys current map of reality. Youll not just be fine, youll become a stronger swimmer than most, and possibly contribute to expanding all of our maps.

Chapter XIV Taking It to the Next Level

There is at least one point in the history of any company when you have to change dramatically to rise to the next level of performance. Miss that moment - and you start to decline. - Andy Grove
14.1 - Game On?
So, if you were paying attention during assimilation of all these concepts it means youre ready to become not just a player in the EPIC LifeGame but a Hero. Youre starting out upon an EPIC Journey, one full of Action, Fun, Growth, Love and Synergy. Excited? If so, fantastic! If not, consider; why? Does a mediocre life of boredom, sadness, monotony, emptiness and loneliness sound better than their opposites? No? Good, well with that in mind, find and feel the excitement of becoming a Hero in your LifeGame and that of those on Your Team.

14.2 - The Prime Directive

What is your prime directive? Look deep inside you and far outside you to discover it. Its what compels you to action, is fun without expending any willpower, you grow in effortlessly, love passionately, and can get others excited about easily. It should be something that scares you to a point you can handle, and is outside of the Maps of other Players realities. As a side note, sharing the EPIC LifeGame with others will create more Heroes around you, which will challenge you to progress towards your prime directive. Now that you have what others might call your purpose or calling, write it down. If youre artistic (or want to be) create a wallpaper for your computer, or a painting for your wall. Now create overall Quests for the next year based on your prime directive for your LifeGame and break them down into smaller increments. If you work, consider if its forwarding your game; seriously, it might be what you need to consider changing to complete your prime directive. Remember you gave this to yourself and how much do you want your own purpose in life to be fulfilled? 40 (or more) of your best hours each week go into something; make sure its in line with what you want. If you study, the same applies, it might even just require a change of some subjects or you may get the revelation that you really dont want to do that course. If so, youve been playing someone elses (probably your parents) LifeGame and not yours and need to rectify that now.

You might have noticed Im spending quite a few words on this topic. Thats because everything comes from this. Its what makes life worth living, otherwise were simply cogs in someones or somethings machine; not exercising our free will to choose our path is for all intents & purposes the same as not having free will.

14.3 - Contribute to Growing EPIC LifeGame for All Heroes

Theres an online community set up specifically to support and enhance EPIC LifeGame for players worldwide. If you havent already done so to get this Foundations QuickGuide, jump onto www.epiclifegame.com , link EPIC LifeGame to your Facebook & then join our Facebook Community by visiting the fanpage www.facebook.com/epiclifegame . Get yourself an online Handle or Hero name, chat about your triumphs and failures. Theres more experienced Heros on there, happy to help train and lead you to training for your Skill Trees or to assist in bringing those Characteristics out to their optimal.

14.4 - The EPIC LifeGame Basic Rulebook

As demand for more EPIC LifeGame grows, well be building the Basic Rulebook and it will also be available soon on www.epiclifegame.com and at all excellent bookstores. Preordering the book or contributing to the cause will cause it to gain critical mass sooner and forward its release. If youve mastered the Foundations Quickguide and love what its given you and its concepts; the knowledge of the fact youre playing your LifeGame and the skills to start to play an EPIC one, the Basic Rulebook will be the next obvious step. It includes all of the Foundations QuickGuide within it and expands greatly on each topic. The tools provided will take you from being a fresh newbie EPIC LifeGame Hero, to being very familiar within your own EPIC LifeGame.

14.5 - Humanity Thanks You (Soon)

The players dont know this yet, but they want to thank you for taking on an EPIC LifeGame. Even though each of us is a tiny speck within the Biosphere of the Earth, collectively we impact everything. Therefore, you investing the time into discovering or reinforcing concepts about your LifeGame will have an effect on the others, whether you share about it or not (though, sharing is caring). So in some way either small or large, humanity would want to thank you if it was aware of what has taken place in your mind over the time of you absorbing this, transformational growth. Most people unfortunately are still just unaware players, submitting their wills to the whims of their bodies, minds and other people. Youve now joined a privileged few for now, growing by the day; Heroes within the LifeGame. Youve been made aware now, left the Matrix per s, knowing about the LifeGame we all are playing. Thus you have no excuse for a mediocre life! Whether you be a good player, acquiring an above mediocre amount of wealth, willpower, friends and other things you truly desire; or you become a Legend among Heroes, amassing and creating brilliant ideas, billions of bucks, and the power to create positive change in the universe of the Mind, on the Earth and beyond, is now entirely up to you.

Note: If you Pirated This QuickGuide

I would prefer even to fail with honour than to win by cheating - Sophocles
Cheat Codes
Firstly, youre definitely not in trouble and were not sending men in black to your home. Cheat Codes are used in games to access functions that arent meant to be used in normal play. They can be fun and extreme, but the unfortunate result is always a deadened experience of the game. If youve enjoyed this QuickGuide (or jumped to this section because it surprised you that this was in the contents), we encourage you to simply visit EPICLifeGame.com and download this properly. The QuickGuide is free anyway, so all one does by cheating in this case, is miss out on the complete ELG Experience. In general, you nearly always get what you pay for in your EPIC LifeGame, so reconsider where you direct the flow of your treasure acquired through mastering the Financial Skill Tree. Pay for things you believe are worth paying for, and youll enjoy them to their fullest.

Version Log: Ver 1.03:

Added If you Pirated This QuickGuide Balanced out Belief in God with Atheism in first paragraph 13.1 Clarification around Physical being weakest until 2010 in 12.1 Removed personalisation from first paragraph of 6.1 Completed section numbering to all sections

Ver 1.02: Added Version log. Added section numbering Heavily Expanded 2.8 Characteristics

Ver 1.01: Expanded 2.10 Alignment Fire & Ice