Mainstream
Talking to Loot Crate
Gamers and geeks love getting awesome stuff. Collector’s editions sell out, for almost every major game and movie, because they include gear like a Jack-in-the-Box with Assassin’s Creed: Brotherhood or a Toxic-Waste Barrel with Breaking Bad. For a while there were only two options, either buy a collector’s edition or spend too much getting a rare piece of gear shipped. If you didn’t want to spend the time tracking down cool stuff or couldn’t stomach the high prices, then you were out of luck. That all changed with Loot Crate. The subscription based service offers gamers a box full of awesome memorabilia for under 20 dollars a month. I started subscribing a couple of months back, and after only two crates, feel it is a “must” in the foreseeable future. In case you don’t know a lot or just want some more information about Loot Crate, Unigamesity interviewed the team’s own Marissa Zaenger on how Loot Crate works day-to-day and how the awesome packages come together.
U) How did Loot Crate start and what were the early goals?
LC) Loot Crate started when co-founders Chris Davis and Matthew Arevalo met at an LA Startup Hackathon in 2012. Chris has a business/finance background with vendor relations from his old company, Gamer Food, and Matthew is a big gamer with background in digital marketing and advertising. They brought their skills together around a subscription service idea (as this was about the time that Birchbox became hugely popular), and Loot Crate was born! They were the only company to come out of [Hackathon] with subscribers and revenue. From there, the goal was the same as any other startup: survival. We needed to grow and start the cash flow. Word-of-mouth and social media marketing was incredibly awesome for awareness, and I think that people found the idea so interesting and fun that they couldn’t help but sign up.
U) Starting a company like this must have been hard, what were some of the biggest challenges?
LC) Starting any sort of company comes with a lot of work and decision-making. Chris and Matthew had to work long hours, stay flexible, and trust each other. They had no real investor funding other than some seed money, so they had to bootstrap it. They had to convince vendors to see the value in the product. It’s not so hard now that we have numbers and projections, and that we can make guarantees, but it’s a whole different game when you haven’t built a track record. And finally… growth! We’ve been growing so quickly since we launched that we’ve been constantly scaling up. Things changed around a lot then, and still change around now.
U) Were there any day-to-day challenges that the team didn’t expect going in? How did you handle them?
LC) I think that the team knew there would be a ton of challenges, but they seemed far away and intangible. Packing, hand-stamping, and shipping 100 crates is something that two people could do out of a backyard. But then suddenly it’s 1000 crates, and you’re like, “Where can we find a warehouse and more people?”, “We should make these crates look better.” and “We’ll have to upgrade our branding!” You just have to keep shifting and moving from one thing to the next. We had to learn that castles are built one stone at a time… and sometimes you have to be willing to knock out a whole tower.
U) Was the company’s huge success a surprise? How did you all deal with the rapid growth?
LC) We always believed that Loot Crate was a legitimate business, but we’ve definitely been surprised at how fast things go. We grow at about 15-20% per month, so scaling is a constant challenge. We have about 120,000 subscribers right now. It’s a fantastic problem to have (and one that we bring upon ourselves!), but it doesn’t change the fact that we always have to worry about managing our inventory and warehouse space, hiring more employees and temporary packers, and searching for bigger and better real estate while maintaining a budget, shipping schedule, and event calendar. Sometimes I wonder how we do it all. We’ve recently acquired a second, larger warehouse space and hired more customer service team members, so the growth is still clearly something we’re handling and will continue to handle for a while!
“We had to learn that castles are built one stone at a time… and sometimes you have to be willing to knock out a whole tower.”
U) How does each months crate begins? Who decides the theme, and how is it chosen?
LC) Our crate planning used to happen almost entirely in the month beforehand, but we’ve reached the point where we have to plan them out much more in advance. When we come up with themes and contents, we’ll basically rely on four factors: what relevant and hyped movie or game releases are happening around that time, what awesome new toys we really want to include, what our Looters have been telling us they want, and what we’ve already done in the past. Every crate you get is the end result of how the marketing and product teams, including Chris and Matthew, decided to puzzle those things together.
U) Do vendors approach Loot Crate or does Loot Crate reach out for specific products?
LC) Both! Sometimes we’re looking for something specific and will research and contact vendors that make the product. Other times, someone will contact us about a new line of product they’re launching and inquire about inclusion in upcoming crates.
U) Which crate has seen the most success to date? Are there ‘stand-out’ crates that grab more attention?
LC) According to the survey that we send out at the end of every month, our most popular crate has been October 2013’s SURVIVE crate. People really loved that we included a book, and the shirt is probably one of our most popular items ever. People still ask us if it’s available anywhere. In terms of stand-out crates that have boosted subscribers… well, they all do. We rotate themes to hit different niches, but we have to cap growth somewhere. We’ll project 15-20% growth, and we have to sell out when we hit that point, even if it’s before our standard deadline. We’ve sold out a little earlier than the 19th at 9pm a few times (LC: Loot Crate sells the crates online until the 19th and ships them over the next week), but we sold out DAYS early in December 2013. Our CONSOLE WARS crate and the holidays collided FTW!
U) How does Loot Crate manage shipping so many crates every single month?
LC) Part of the reason that we can ship so reliably is that we keep our entire packing operation in-house. Having that control makes it easier for us to manage and tweak if something goes wrong. We hire some really great temp workers to pack every month, and it’s thanks to them that we can ship out ~15,000 complete crates per day during our shipping cycle. We also work closely with our delivery agents, whether it’s USPS, FedEx, Asendia, or others, because once our crates leave the warehouse, it’s up to them to deliver!
U) With the massive popularity of Loot Crate so far, is the sky the limit? Where does Loot Crate go from here?
LC) We used to say that the sky was the limit, but then we sent our January LAUNCH crate into the atmosphere with a weather balloon! Really, we’d love to be available everywhere. We’re currently available in the US, UK, Canada, and Australia, and we see requests on Facebook or Twitter every day for more countries – Norway, the Netherlands, Germany, Portugal, etc. Trust me, we’d LOVE to be at that point where all those people could be Looters too! But that kind of expansion brings a whole new set of challenges and questions to consider. How do we expand our team to handle that load? Where do we locate another warehouse? Is there going to be a language barrier? We’ll get there, but we hope that our foreign friends can be patient with us while we figure it all out. Until then, we’re looking at opening up some alternative subscription options, expanding our event calendar, and revamping our website.
U) What, in your personal opinion, are the five best items Loot Crate has shipped?
LC) Oh man, that’s a tough one. I’d pick these (not including Mega Crate items) (LC: Every Month Loot Crate sends out one Mega Crate with over 1000 dollars in stuff):
The 8-bit sunglasses,
The South Park rechargeable speaker,
The “Legends Never Die” magnet,
The Titanfall shirt,
And the “It’s Dangerous to Go Alone!” bottle opener.
Hopefully this glimpse into the work and passion that goes into compiling the monthly packages Loot Crate sends out makes you want to expand your own collection. The five items above are just a few of the cool things you can get every month. If you decide to go for one, then make sure to use the code JUNELOOT for 3 bucks off. A lot of these subscription services can seem underwhelming and deliver a dud now and again. While Loot Crate has never blown my socks off in terms of value, every month I feel that there is more than my money’s worth packed into the box. That, and the fact that I don’t have to spend time shopping around for cool gear makes Loot Crate something to consider. Every month’s Loot Crate is a box full of surprises, and I can’t wait for the next one.
Usenet newsgroups may seem old-fashioned to many. In reality, they are the perfect place for players who love the classics but are always open to new games and strategies. These internet communities are also ideal for those searching for gaming material, solutions to issues, or a conversation related to their favorite video games. Whether you are an experienced player or entering this domain for the first time, Usenet holds a ton of resources that could change how you interact with the gaming world.
Understanding Usenet Newsgroups
Usenet newsgroups, which include gaming groups, are like message boards. People can post messages and articles in different categories. Each group is a special place for certain topics – this makes it simple to find the subjects you want to read about most. The unique characteristic of Usenet lies in its decentralized structure. This permits a much more open interchange of details and information than what is seen on regular social media platforms or forums.
Initially, Usenet was utilized only for academic and professional exchanges. However, it soon turned into a prevalent method for communicating among hobbyists and gaming groups. Presently, even though Usenet has been surpassed by newer platforms in terms of popularity, it continues to be an important tool for knowledgeable users who value its special mix of staying anonymous with fast communication. Knowledgeable users also love access to vast archives containing historical information and software applications that are no longer available elsewhere on the Internet.
Top Usenet Newsgroups for Mobile Games
comp.mobile.games
This is a fresh group dedicated to discussions about mobile games and related technology matters within the industry. Here, you can find conversations about the coding aspects of creating games for mobile devices, like new updates in platforms or fresh game engines being used for development purposes.
rec.games.mobile
The perfect place for people who play games on their mobile devices as a hobby. Here, users talk about strategies, tricks and discuss game evaluations. This group is also suitable for those who are not serious gamers but like to connect with others and discuss playing strategies.
alt.games.mobile
In this newsgroup, users often discuss gaming fixes and give each other suggestions. It is also the go-to place for gamers and die-hard fans that wish to find each and every detail of the game they love to play.
Best Newsgroups for Video Game Discussions
Newsgroups such as alt.games.video and rec.games.video.arcade have lively communities where gamers often engage in exchanges and conversations. These forums are not only for resolving gaming issues or writing reviews; they are centers of enthusiastic discussion regarding gaming culture, strategy, and creation process. Be it the latest RPGs, energetic shooters or old-school arcade games – there is always a thread bustling with discussion.
In these threads, not only will you encounter a variety of views from across the globe, but you may also land on gaming tricks and shortcuts that are lesser known. For those who are new, remember that every group has its own tone and rules. Lurking for a while should help you understand community norms and ensure your contributions are accepted.
Specialized Gaming Newsgroups
Specialized newsgroups are designed for particular gaming communities. They provide a discussion environment that is more centered and focused. These groups are ideal for users who really love a particular game and want to explore it in great depth.
The benefit of these specific groups is their collection of very particular details. Gamers who are part of such a group often exchange unique things like custom mods or skins, and offer advice on how to make gameplay more efficient and fun.
Tips for Using Usenet Newsgroups for Gaming
To enter Usenet, you will first need to pick a provider that is well-known for security, high retention rates and fast speed. To make the right pick, it is a good idea to get the rankings for the best Usenet providers. Next, get advanced newsreader software, as this will allow you to browse through newsgroups easily and manage your activities effectively.
Focus on newsgroups related to gaming and participate in discussions matching your interests to find gaming buddies. Also, make sure that you follow the netiquette of each group while doing so. Utilize newsreader software functions like filters and automation to keep things simple.
Conclusion
Usenet, at first sight, can appear as a choice for oldies or people that have not yet acclimated to social media platforms and forums. However, its distinct characteristics make it very useful for all kinds of gamers. If you are searching for uncommon information, looking for detailed conversations or wish to join a community that matches with your specific interests; Usenet is surely the place for you. Jump in to see how Usenet can add another element of fun to your gaming experiences!
Child development is a complex journey marked by critical milestones where each stride forward builds upon the foundation of the previous one. Acknowledging children’s individual needs, pediatric therapy services tailor strategies to foster physical, emotional, and cognitive growth. To support this transformative process, environments that prompt curiosity and engagement, coupled with advanced educational tools, play an instrumental role in shaping young minds. These resources, carefully selected and applied, can significantly amplify a child’s developmental trajectory. Keep reading to learn about the effective ways these tools and techniques can aid in advancing childhood milestones.
Pediatric Therapy Services: Enhancing Developmental Milestones
Pediatric therapy services support children as they reach and surpass developmental milestones. These services, often provided by skilled therapists, address various growth challenges, ensuring each child has the best possible start in life. From speech and occupational therapy to physical and behavioral interventions, these professionals tailor their approach to meet the unique needs of every young patient.
Therapists work relentlessly to motivate children, fostering an environment where milestones are not merely achieved but celebrated. Through personalized, one-on-one sessions, children gain the confidence and skills necessary to navigate their developmental journeys more easily. The trust between therapist and child is a solid foundation for consistent progress and paves the path for lifelong learning and adaptation.
Resource provision is a key component of pediatric therapy, equipping parents with the tools to continue therapy practices at home. Effective communication between therapists and families ensures a cohesive strategy that envelops the child’s daily routine, enhancing the therapy’s impact. It also allows parents to identify subtle progress, reinforcing their pivotal role in the child’s developmental success.
If you’re looking for pediatric therapy in your area, a simple Google search like “pediatric therapy Arizona” will help you find local providers and services tailored to your child’s needs, ensuring they receive the specialized care necessary for their development.
Optimizing Play Spaces: Creating Environments for Learning and Exploration
Optimized play spaces are vital platforms where children engage with their world, build skills, and unleash their creativity. Designers of such areas pay astute attention to elements that promote safe exploration and intellectual stimulation. A thoughtfully arranged play environment serves as a place of entertainment and a crucible for burgeoning development.
Professionals incorporate a variety of tactile and visual stimuli within play areas to cater to diverse developmental needs and interests. Stimulating sensory experiences is central to cognitive and motor skill refinement among younger populations. The intentional selection of colors, textures, and interactive features sparks curiosity and encourages physical activity, which is fundamental to healthy growth.
Accessibility remains paramount in creating play spaces, ensuring they cater to children across all abilities. Including adaptive resources within these environments demonstrates a commitment to inclusive development, allowing every child to participate and benefit from the joy and learning play offers. Such inclusiveness fosters a sense of community and belonging, which is essential for emotional and social development.
Affording children autonomy in their play advances self-directed learning and problem-solving capabilities. When children feel empowered to make choices within their play, they better understand their preferences and abilities, setting the stage for confidence and self-awareness — qualities that are instrumental as children grow and transition through life’s stages.
Additionally, incorporating elements like fake plants or outdoor plants from retailers like Nearly Natural outdoor plants into play spaces can enhance children’s sensory and aesthetic experience.
Interactive Learning Tools: Technology and Resources for Cognitive Development
Interactive learning tools harness technology’s power to solidify children’s cognitive development. These digital resources provide an array of engaging, educational content that aligns with critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Software and applications designed for children’s learning capitalize on the allure of multimedia to capture young minds. Effective education solutions provide children with stimulating challenges that are age-appropriate and aligned with developmental targets.
The discerning use of educational technology in classrooms and homes can reinforce concepts and skills taught through traditional methods. It creates a harmonious blend of instruction and interactive play, thereby cementing a child’s understanding and retention of information.
Providers of such educational platforms are ever vigilant, updating content to reflect new educational strategies and the latest academic research. Thus, children equipped with these technological tools remain at the vanguard of current learning methodologies, all while engrossed in fun and dynamic ways.
Overall, caregivers and educators can provide comprehensive support for children’s developmental journeys by integrating pediatric therapy services, optimized play spaces, and interactive learning tools. These resources nurture their physical, emotional, and cognitive growth and cultivate a lifelong love for learning and exploration.
The quest for knowledge and self-improvement through academic pursuits is more than just a milestone in life; it is a cornerstone of personal development and success. Committing resources to further education is not merely an expense; it is an investment with considerable returns that extend far beyond the classroom. Education equips us with the tools required to navigate an increasingly complex world, opening doors to opportunities and fostering personal growth. Keep reading to discover why allocating time and resources to your academics is a decision that pays dividends for a lifetime.
The Lifelong Returns of Investing in Your Education
Investing in education is akin to planting seeds that blossom into numerous opportunities. Beyond financial gains, education forms the bedrock for career success and personal fulfillment. It empowers individuals to pursue their passions, enhances job satisfaction, and boosts self-esteem through academic achievements. Education serves as a catalyst for social mobility, breaking cycles of poverty by equipping people with the skills needed to improve their lives and contribute positively to society.
This ripple effect extends to lower crime rates and increased civic engagement, benefiting communities at large. Beginning with scholarships for high school sophomores can provide the initial support needed to embark on this transformative journey. These opportunities signify a commitment to nurturing future leaders and fostering a culture of lifelong learning and achievement.
Personal Growth and Lifelong Learning Through Education
Education is a vital aspect of personal development, providing opportunities for growth, character building, and discovering passions and capabilities. It fosters resilience and adaptability, which are essential in all aspects of life. A strong educational foundation encourages lifelong learning, ensuring individuals remain relevant and proactive in their professional and personal lives.
Education also broadens perspectives, exposing individuals to diverse ideas, cultures, and worldviews, fostering empathy, cross-cultural understanding, and appreciation for the human experience. It also allows for critical assessment and engagement with the world from an informed standpoint. The journey through academia often involves self-discovery, helping students uncover their strengths, weaknesses, interests, and values, leading to a more fulfilled life with aligned choices and goals.
Expanding Your Horizons: The Social Benefits of Academics
Academic investment in education is about building social capital through interactions with peers, faculty, and industry professionals. These interactions foster communication skills and relationships, which are crucial for life stages. Extracurricular activities in academic settings provide platforms for students to express themselves, learn new skills, and take on leadership roles.
Collaborative projects and team-based assignments teach students the importance of teamwork, compromise, and collective pursuit of goals. Higher education institutions also serve as a microcosm of society, requiring social awareness and finesse to navigate the diverse cultural, economic, and ideological perspectives.
How Academic Achievement Propels Professional Success
Professional success often hinges on a blend of experiences and achievements, with academic accomplishments playing a crucial role. Excelling in academia fosters a strong work ethic and sharp time-management skills, highly valued in today’s job market. Employers frequently use academic credentials to gauge candidates, especially for specialized roles like those requiring an aa in paralegal studies, where in-depth knowledge is pivotal.
Moreover, higher education equips individuals with specialized knowledge and technical skills that are indispensable in complex roles. Critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, nurtured during academic pursuits, further enhance one’s capacity to tackle challenges creatively. The networks formed during academic years often open doors to valuable career opportunities through mentorships and connections.
Leveraging Educational Investments for Career Advancement Opportunities
Investing in education can significantly impact career advancement, as academic qualifications often lead to promotions, leadership roles, and exclusive professional circles. Continuous education can lead to specialized career paths with higher salaries and statuses, especially in evolving fields. Higher education institutions offer career services like resume-building workshops and job placement programs to help students transition from academia to the workforce effectively.
For those already in the workforce, further education can be a strategic move for career change or progression, with flexible online programs and part-time options allowing working professionals to pursue additional qualifications while maintaining their current positions.
Altogether, the investment in academics is a far-reaching decision that impacts not just your immediate circumstances, but your future potential. As you prioritize your academic pursuits, you build a stronger foundation for success in every aspect of life—professionally, personally, and socially.
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