If you've been following along with the TGN YouTube team's First Impressions videos, you might have noticed the dulcet tones of one "Will Cruz" introducing us to a wide variety of games, whether it's trudging through the trenches of Verdun or admitting a shameless addiction to Kitty Powers' Matchmaker.
Will is going to be one of the three hosts of our latest community venture, TA Playlist. We've heard from Kevin recently and even Mark has sat in the hot seat, albeit half a decade ago. It seems like a good time to complete the set.
Unfortunately nobody knows where Will's secret TGN Bat-cave is, but I did bump into Gotham's playboy billionaire BruceWayne1008, who looks and sounds exactly like him and seemed willing to answer all of my questions. Could they possibly be one and the same? Surely not...
The Batcave is much smaller than I was expecting.
The Interview
Gamertags almost always tell something about their owners. Tell us about yours.
I’m a bit of a geek (in case you didn’t know). As a kid, I would read comic books daily. Batman was my favorite hero growing up so it seemed like a no brainer. Call me immature but I wanted a gamertag that would be awesome when people played against me competitively online. Hearing gamers yell “HOW THE HELL DID BATMAN KILL ME!?” is the funniest thing to me.
Tell us about your gamer pic. Why did you choose that one?
I recently changed my gamerpic not too long ago. It’s currently my Xbox avatar. I was aiming to have it look as if I’m diving into action. Now that I think about it, it looks like I’m attempting to scare somebody. Either way, I like how it came out. It looks goofy with the yellow background and I feel like that represents me as a person well.
How long have you been gaming? What’s the first game you remember playing and do you have any fond early memories of gaming?
Roughly 16 years or so. The first game I was ever allowed to play was Yoshi’s Island. Gosh, I love that game so much. I remember playing games like Super Mario Bros 3, Mario Kart, The Lion King, Ducktales, Punch-Out… The list goes on and on. Granted, I was terrible at these games but I loved playing these NES classics.
Do others in your family game, or are you a first-generation gamer? What does your family have to say about your gaming?
Growing up, both of my sisters were avid gamers. As they aged, they left it behind. Now and then they may play racing or casual games but let’s be real, I’m the real gamer in the family. My parents never understood it and honestly have no idea what I do on TA. I could picture my mother saying, “Stop spending your money on those stupid games. They’re expensive!”
Assuming you’re not a professional gamer, what’s your day job?
I’m a student. I’m obtaining my degree in Radio-Television Broadcasting in May. From there, I intend on getting a degree in Film and Media. I’m also a Resident Assistant on Campus and I work at my schools Radio Station as a DJ. Somehow in between all of that, I produce videos for the TrueGaming Network/TrueAchievements. Not sure how I do it. I’m blessed so I don’t complain.
The TGN YouTube studio. That's Kevin on camera.
If you could be anything in life, what would you be? Is that something you think you’ll ever try to become?
My goal is to work as a producer, color corrector or director. Whether it be for a television station or a film production, it would be a dream come true to have my name in the credits. Being able to contribute to something that could possibly entertain millions of people is like a dream come true.
Colour Corrector is quite a specific role, any reason you might be drawn to that in particular?
Color Correction (or Color Grading) isn’t a role most people even know about. During my studies at university, we’ve covered the concept on a very basic level. I instantly gravitated towards it. You could name any movie you’ve seen throughout your lifetime (excluding black & white films) and I guarantee you Color Correction was used.
The artist is responsible for conveying mood and setting the scene. Whether that means over saturating the color to give a vivid look or using deep black and greys to give a sense of grief, Color Correction artists make magic happen on the screen. I hope to someday be able to contribute to that.
What’s the weirdest thing you’ve ever experienced either in work or out and about?
I’ve previously worked in a bank as a Teller. My job was simple, complete transactions accurately while treating customer’s human beings. No rocket science here. Long story short, a customer requested to exchange his $100 bill to pennies. Why does this man need 10,000 pennies… your guess is as good as mine. It took me a while but I completed his transaction. Couple of hours go by and I head out for lunch to only find the same man getting arrested. Apparently, he was attempting to kill people with his pennies by throwing them off the subway platform. Did I forget to mention this was my first day on the job…
What part of the world do you live in? If I were to visit, what sights would I have to see?
Born and Raised in New York City. I live in the Bronx (not the safest place) but it’s home. There’s always something going on in Manhattan. I personally would avoid Times Square and Central Park. If you want to breathe NYC lifestyle you have the visit the Lower East Side. Visiting places like Yankee Stadium, Statue of Liberty and Union Square are worthwhile just crowded. Grab a slice while you’re here!
Tell us about your home life – parents, spouse, children, significant other, animal companions?
Parents are still alive and kicking (God Bless). I’ve been in a relationship with my girlfriend Jessica for nearly 4 years. I plan to marry that girl. No children (Only 23 years old guys!). Back home I have a cat named Teeca and a lazy dog named Midnight. Both are divas and pampered well.
Teeca and Midnight
If you had to pick a spirit animal that represents you, what would it be and why?
I was once told my spirit animal was a butterfly but I refuse to be the tramp stamp of spirit animals. I’d like to think I’m a bear. Hibernates all day but when it comes to hunting, I do what I must. I’m a plus sized guy so it makes sense.
What is your favourite aspect of gaming, or being a gamer? What keeps you playing?
I mostly play single player games. I know that sounds depressing but who doesn’t enjoy a good story well executed in an interactive format? I’ve branched out and play games like
Overwatch 2 but well written stories keep me glued to the screen. Gaming has become apart of me now and I can’t picture not playing games. What keeps me on Xbox has to be the achievements. I love the additional challenge.
Let’s talk about emotional impact in video games. Has a game ever filled you with rage? What happened and what did you do?
I’m a terrible gamer so any game I suck at would most likely upset me.
Batman: Arkham Knight is currently the pain in my rear. I’ve invested hundreds of hours into that game and I can’t for the life of me unlock
Requiem for a Killer &
The Curtain Falls. I broke my remote due to my anger get the best of me. I was so damn close.
On the flip side, has a game ever made you cry?
Telltale’s
The Walking Dead. Confession time, I’m not a fan of the show on AMC (I’m sorry). The game itself always tugs on my heart. I love Clementine and Lee! The last episode of season one ALWAYS makes me cry. I’ve beaten it 3 times and still the waterworks take affect.
Outside of games, what are your other media habits? Do you have favourite books, TV series, movies or podcasts?
Not too much of a reader (which is terrible). Last book series I read was Harry Potter. I’m a TV Junkie. I attempt to catch up on everything I miss but I’ve accepted that fact that I’ll always be behind. Favorite TV show of all time is Breaking Bad. Favorite movie of all time is a tie between Star Wars and Scarface. I’m new to the podcast scene so any recommendations would be awesome Everyone should listen to the TA, TA Playlist and TT podcasts!
Is there a book, movie or TV show that you'd really like to see adapted into a game? I'll accept ones that have tried and failed, but only if you tell me how you'd fix it!
Limitless. The show was amazing! It was based off the 2011 movie with Bradley Cooper. It failed to pull strong ratings with CBS due to its competition in primetime. What the show really needed was shorter seasons with less comedy filler. The man had access to a drug that let him access 100% of his brain. Stop wasting your time telling jokes and start doing some cool $#*!
What about music - what's your preference?
I’m a Hip-Hop guy. On daily rotation I listen to Eminem, Jay-Z, Tupac and Big Pun. I do enjoy new artists in the genre but 90’s Hip-Hop is where it’s at. My runner-up is Alternative. It’s not traditional rock and not cheesy pop rock either. It’s a perfect balance for me.
If all video games disappeared in the world, what would you do? How would you spend your time? What hobbies would you pick up?
I’d be the saddest person on earth. I would go through an emotional breakdown and go through the five stages of grief. I’d like to think eventually I’d get over it and continue my life. I’d probably be a bit more productive though. I know for sure I’d go back to making creative writing which has been a passion of mine.
What kind of creative writing were you into? Scripts, novels, amusing haikus?
I used to write almost anything. At first it was Poetry. Eventually that evolved into lyrics for music. I’ve grown the most comfortable writing screenplays. Short little excerpts that allow character growth and development.
My favorite to write has been Skits. I’m insanely sarcastic and I think of funny jokes on the fly (well I think they’re funny). Comedic skits give me a chance to say what I think but won’t say out loud to avoid embarrassment.
What’s the best thing you’ve ever done that you thought you wouldn’t like?
This may sound cheesy but get out of my comfort zone. I’ve been able to meet so many people and gain huge opportunities by doing so. I’m introverted by nature and feel comfortable in my bubble. Once I began to take chances doors started opening for me. Had I not stepped out of my comfort zone, I most likely wouldn’t be perusing a career in film or even applied to be a part of the Youtube Team for TA.
What is the nicest place you’d never want to go? What makes it great and why wouldn’t you want to go there?
The TGN office. I’ve always wanted to go the UK. It looks gorgeous and honestly one day I’ll end up making the trip. My fear is meeting Rich and everyone else and have everyone get annoyed at me. I am a bit loud and have a bit of a dark humor. Maybe I’m overthinking it.
What’s your favorite game of all time on any console? What makes it special?
Kingdom Hearts on the Playstation 2. I don’t remember how this game fell on my lap but I loved every second of it. I was eight years old and the mix was perfect. Disney mixing with aspects of Final Fantasy. I’ve had to have beaten the game at least 6 times.
If some evil spell allowed you to own only a single game for the rest of your life, what would it be? Why?
Halo 3. It doesn’t matter how many times I play this game, I never get bored. Doesn’t matter if its Campaign, Multiplayer or Forge,
Halo 3 is my go-to game no matter what. The only thing I ask is that the online community stay strong to better enhance the experience.
Any games you regret putting on your gamertag?
Battleborn. What the hell was I thinking ever playing that game? To be fair, I didn’t purchase the game nor complete so I can’t form a full opinion. Looking at games I’ve played, Seeing
Battleborn on the list upsets me the most. No clue why, I just regretting playing that game so much.
Do you have any particular gaming pet peeves?
PSA Ladies and Gents. Rage quitting is NOT okay! C’mon. I’m moderately competitive and poorly skilled in games. You’re telling me the one time I get an advantage and am about to pull an upset victory… you’re going to disconnect because you can’t take a loss? It’s so frustrating. Don’t do it.
What upcoming game are you most looking forward to?
Injustice 2. Now I’m not good at fighting games but oddly enough I would love to get the game on launch. I probably won’t be able to afford it but I do intend on getting it. I played the original
Injustice: Gods Among Us and loved it. The sequel looks promising and hopefully it doesn’t disappoint.
What games have you been playing recently? What do you think of them?
The last game I’ve played was
Yooka-Laylee. I’m doing a first impressions video that most likely will be on the TGN channel before this is published (
check it out!). The game is vividly colored and so fun to play and explore.
Alan Wake has been an interesting game to play as well. It’s dark, mysterious and has an interesting narrative. I’m annoyed by certain characters and gameplay mechanics but I’ll get a chance to get more in depth in the
TA Playlist Podcast.
I’ve been playing
Clicker Heroes as well. The game isn’t particularly fun but I’m grinding for some achievements so I’ve been playing daily.
What game are you most proud of completing? Why?
Life is Strange. It wasn’t particularly difficult but at the time of its release I was suffering a bit of depression. I felt really secluded and alone. Playing through this title gave me strength. The story made me realize life is only what you make it at the end of the day. I know its corny but it really played a big impact.
What single Xbox achievement are you most proud of? Why?
I invested way too much time for this achievement. I remember playing this in Boston (was visiting family) and I had no internet connections. I would stay up all night for back to back in order to get this achievement. My family thought I was crazy. I knew it needed to be done.
In a slightly different vein, do you have a favourite achievement? One perhaps that you just really enjoyed attaining?
Though I’ve never played the game on this Gamertag, My favorite achievement I’ve unlocked is:
Like c’mon, it was so damn simple. Plus I remember missing this achievement the first time by pressing A. It’s clever as hell and easy too. What more could I ask for?
If you found yourself dropped into a video game, which video game character would you most want to have your back?
Niko Belic from
Grand Theft Auto IV. Have you seen how loyal this man is to his cousin? I feel like I’d be the guy getting into trouble and Niko would come guns blazing to save the day. I mean, Niko would probably complain the whole time and lecture me… but nothing a game of bowling couldn’t fix (please get that reference).
Any game characters you would like seen thrown into video game hell?
Mei from Overwatch. This woman annoys the life out of me. People use her to troll with her damn Mr. Freeze gun and it upsets me so. And her voice! For some reason when she speaks I want to bang my head into the wall. Stop being so nice. We’re tryna move the payload befriend the enemy!
Apart from infinite lives, what gameplay feature do you wish you could make use of in real life?
Speed. I’m talking like The Flash speed. I would never be late to anything. Never paying for transportation again. Paperwork would be a thing of the past. If something bad happens in life, I could run so fast that it could take me back in time. Blessing and a curse but it’s worth it.
Ever had any bad experiences online? How did you handle it?
All the time. You guys know how the Xbox community can be. One game you’re with a group of awesome gamers who are highly intelligent and funny. Next game you’re with a 12 year old with a very limited vocabulary and favorite word begins with an F. I ignore ignorance. Thank the Xbox gods for a mute button.
If you could have a multiplayer session with anyone in the world, whom would you choose? Why?
I would love to play a game with Celebrities who would be extremely entertaining. Snoop Dogg, Terry Crews, Mila Kunis, Jack Black… People like that who have a general idea what’s going on but their commentary would have me cracking up. It would be interesting to add Robin Williams too. RIP.
What other consoles do you own? What are your favorites on those platforms?
I recently purchased a Nintendo Switch. Though there isn’t a ton of games to play on it at the moment, I love Zelda and 1-2 Switch. I also own an Xbox 360 and a gaming PC. I don’t enjoy the PC master race so I usually use it to play Roms.
What else are you hoping to see from the Switch in the near future? Given your first impressions, what would you say to someone still on the fence about buying one?
I want to see the Switch succeed. Right now, the gaming library is scarce and most people use their switch for 1-2 Switch and Zelda. Hopefully this changes with Mario Kart, Splatoon 2 and Mario Odyssey. Third party developers are giving it a chance which makes have hope for the future of the console.
Purchasing the console is a no brainer. If you have a love for Nintendo and essentially want a super powered 3DS, get it! (That’s if you can find it anywhere). Whatever you, don't buy from EBay. Overpriced and scams have been going on as well. If you can wait for the hype to die, it’ll be worthwhile as well.
Have you ever had a game you really looked forward to that you were disappointed in when it finally arrived? Tell us about it.
Minecraft: Story Mode - A Telltale Games Series. This is the only Telltale game that I was heavily disappointed in. The cast of voice actors looked pretty solid so I had high expectations. Unfortunately, the game didn’t deliver on any front which really broke my heart. Guess the Gamerscore was the only positive.
Do you play games without achievements? Has the existence of achievements changed the way you play games?
I do technically play games without achievements but only on other consoles. In fact, if a game has unobtainable achievements, I tend not to purchase the title. I know it’s bad because I’m depriving myself from a possible great experience but knowing that I won’t be able to fully complete the list doesn’t sit well with me.
Tell us about your gaming set-up.
My setup is constantly changing. Right now I have a 55 inch 4K tv on my desk. Xbox One S sits under the desk on a small platform. My Switch dock is hidden because I couldn’t find a proper place for it. I use my El Gato HD 60 to capture game footage, Blue Yeti for Voiceover and my Macbook Pro as my powerhorse. Most of my games are digital so I don’t have an impressive physical collection.
How do you use TA? Tracking, walkthroughs, solutions, sessions?
I use TA for nearly everything. Primarily I use it for tracking, solutions and sessions. Tracking primarily because the interface is more detailed than the Xbox if you ask me. Solutions saves lives and I probably wouldn’t have complete any games without it. Though I haven’t utilized sessions in a while, all previous sessions I’ve been apart of have been awesome.
How has your gaming changed or evolved since coming to TA?
I can’t speak for others but since I’ve joined TA, I’ve grown to love achievements more than ever. Being able to socialize and discuss strategies between other users with a common goal is an awesome feeling. Granted, my Gamerscore isn’t the highest but having friends with higher scores influence me to unlock more.
What do you like and dislike most about the site?
What is there to dislike? The site has a unique and caring community with the same goal. The staff who works on the site are always improving the site and bringing new features to us. I applaud all who contribute to the site because if it wasn’t for you guys, TA would be what it is today.
How did you learn about TA? Have you signed up any friends to the website?
I joined TA because I remember having the lower gamerscore on my friend list. Not sure why but I felt super inferior and wanted to change that. TA is my homepage ever since and I would argue that I used TA almost as much as I use social media. I was able to sign a couple of friends up but they aren’t as obsessed with achievements as I am.
Have you made friends here?
I surely hope so! I’m a pretty simple guy and for the most part, I’m easy to get along with. Though primarily most of the TA users I interact with are staff, I feel as if I wasn’t apart of TA, we would all get along. And if you’re reading this and ever had doubt on adding me or messaging me… go ahead and do it! Don’t you worry about it!!
Why do you choose TA over other gaming sites?
I didn’t intend to become a TA member. I needed to find out how to unlock an achievement for
Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Siege. Google lead me to TA and the rest is history. I may have made a TA account prior but I don’t remember. I do remember how amazing the community has been here and I’ve stuck here ever since.
Do you have any goals as a gamer that TA helps you track? Like being a completionist or topping a leaderboard?
I don’t really have a direct goal or aim to be apart of any leaderboard. I don’t have that much of a competitive nature to do so. When I do become obsessed with fully completing a list or cleaning up some achievements, I tend to add the achievements to my to do list.
Have you participated in any TA competitions like Leap Frog, UHH or GTASC? How did you fare and would you want to see if you can do better?
I’ve only participated in GTASC and I just recently signed up for the Easter Egg Hunt (though I don’t fully understand it). GTASC I got murdered in. I didn’t even have a chance. I believe I was eliminated in the second week as an individual and as a team. I knew I wasn’t going to make it far. Next time I’ll hopefully have more free time to contribute.
Some may recognise you as "that guy from the TGN First Impressions". Tell us a little about your role on the YouTube team – how did you get involved, and how are you finding it?
That’s incredible if the community knows me as the First Impressions guy! On the YouTube team my role is simple, entertain! I aim to do that with anything I’m apart of. I believe last year TA had was searching for people to produce for the channel. I applied with absolutely no faith and took a shot in the dark.
DaveKinetic messaged me back asking if I was still interested and I dove head first. It’s been wonderful experience! I love it.
Out of the First Impressions you have produced so far, what was the biggest surprise - good or bad?
I feel judgement already.
Kitty Powers' Matchmaker. I would have never in a million years guessed that this title would be so damn fun I’ve grinded at least 30 hours to complete the game. I’ve became super dedicated to finish the game. I wouldn’t have beaten it without
KBop a doo. She’s awesome and her achievement guide is as well.
Any advice for those thinking about creating video content or starting their own channel?
Don’t do it unless you the right intentions. It’s not about money for me. I do it because I’m passionate about gaming and I love to entertain. I don’t worry about the views or the likes. All that’s on my mind is making content that’ll make someone smile. If I help educate the consumer too, I’m even happier.
So in sum, Do it because you love to do it.
You are also part of the hugely exciting TA Playlist event. How did you get involved in that? How is it going so far?
I’m so freaking excited for TA Playlist!!! You have no idea. I’ve had to pleasure of working with N0T PENNYS B0AT (Editor) and Eurydace (Newshound/YouTube team) prior. Mark enjoyed the videos I’ve made for the channel and invited me to be apart of this event/podcast as a co-host. I was honored and couldn’t refuse the opportunity.
We saw an incredible amount of buzz around the site when the event was announced - what do you think makes TA Playlist special?
Our lovely editor, N0T PENNYS B0AT came up with the idea for TA Playlist. He wanted to bring a podcast to life by bringing in the community in this shared experience. Whether you’re a casual player or a leadboard hunter, Playlist is for everyone. I think that’s why this event is like no other hosted on TA.
Lightning Round
Favorite Xbox game?
Halo 3.
Favorite non-Xbox game?
Super Mario World (NES).
Favorite classic game?
Halo Combat Evolved (Classic to me).
Favorite free to play game?
Least favorite game?
Verdun. Ugh.
Favorite game developer?
Telltale Games.
Favorite game weapon?
The Sword from Halo.
Most hated game enemy?
Heartless from Kingdom Hearts.
Favorite game character?
Booker DeWitt.
Favorite game sidekick?
Cortana.
Favorite game ending?
Most hated game ending?
Best boss battle?
Bowser.
Game that deserves a remake, remaster or sequel?
Pac Man Fever (Google it)
Favorite game environment?
I'm a fan of levels with mountains. Couldn't tell ya why.
Favorite game music?
Does Rock Band count? If not, Parappa the Rapper.
Non-Xbox game you’d love to have achievements in?
End of Lightning Round
Final Thoughts
Is there anything in particular you want the TA community to know about you?
Don’t be afraid to add me on Xbox or on TrueAchievements. I maybe super busy but at the end of the day… I want to play games and have a good time (this oddly sounds like a dating profile now)
Do you guys use twitter? If so,
add me!
Is there anything I haven’t asked that you want to talk about?
In crazy times like these, I think it’s best to take a look at life and appreciate it, ya know? We all lived on borrowed time and I noticed that we tend to forget how short our stay really is. Count your blessings and continue to be the best you can be.
Any shout-outs you want to make before we go?
The TA Community Interview will be posted every two weeks if we have enough nominations! If you have a friend you'd like to nominate to be interviewed, or if you'd like to nominate yourself, please send a PM to
kintaris. You’re more likely to be picked if you’re well-written, interesting, or accidentally aided a potential serial killer. Make sure to include WHY we should nominate you as that will improve your chances!