"NAME PHIL'S CAR"
CONTEST RESULTS

Announcing the results and winners of the Name Phil's Car Contest!

In our Premiere Issue, I talked about how I bought a new car within the past year and how it needed a name.

Well, I'm surprised that more of you didn't display your creative sides, but in the end, choosing a winner was difficult. My thanks to everyone who sent in an entry; I didn't expect the decision to be this tough! In the end, though, this one just edged out some others in overall character presentation, and it just fit the best.

And the winner is... STEVE B., with his entry "Diplomus"! Congratulations! Altered States Magazine will be in touch regarding where to send the toy.

Here is Diplomus' profile:

NAME: Diplomus
ALLIGENCE: AUTOBOT
FUNCTION: NEGOTIATOR

"A clenched fist convinces no one to compromise."

PROFILE: Smooth, refined, and friendly, Diplomus uses a smile and a handshake when others might use firepower to resolve a situation. Relaxed and easy-going, he has negotiated the release of several Autobot captives, as well as orchastrated several treaties between the Autobots and Decepticons.

Lest anyone forget, Diplomus also knows the art of warfare all too well. The sleek chrome of his exterior hides a battle-hardened history of a fighter who rose through the ranks by using his head instead of his hands to get the job done.

Hoping to ultimately end the war between the Autobots and the Decepticons, he strives to reach an amicable solution that will satisfy everyone before the downward spiral of violence swallows every resident of Cybertronian whole. That fight is one he will never shy away from, despite it's inherent dangers.

STRENGTHS: Diplomus is a natural-born politician; he has a deep understanding of how to relate to a variety of Autobots and Decepticons, depending upon their profession and current events. His highly methodical approach to conversation is hidden by layers of mild-mannered politeness and humor.

In his vehicular mode, Diplomus can accelerate from 0-60 MPH in a little less then four seconds. Ironically, the range in his vehicular mode is determined not by energy consumption, but from tire wear. Theoretically, each set of tires last roughly 200,000 miles before being unacceptable for most travelling conditions. The polished body panels and windows can withstand reasonable projectile damage, and deflect low-powered energy projectiles.

His vehicular mode has a variety of devices meant to evade pursuing enemies. Smoke bombs to cloud his escape, oil sprays to cover the area behind him so that enemies slip on the surface, and even reducing engine noise are all tactics he can rely upon when negotiations or situations deteriorate.

When forced to defend himself in robot mode, he carries an AR-88 Photex Cannon, capable of delivering a considerable amount of damage. Because of the inherent dangers of his profession, he can capably aim his firearm at a target over 80 yards away and expect to hit it. In extreme cases, a scope-sensor can be attached to the firearm, extending his realistic firing range to 130 yards.

WEAKNESSES: Diplomus' views of ending the war between the Autobots and Decepticons usually are not well received by those actually fighting on the front line... either side. Some Autobots consider him a bureaucratic traitor, while some Decepticons consider him an overrated con-man.

As a soldier, Diplomus has let some of his abilities rust over the years. While he still has relatively quick reflexes and aiming capabilities, the AR-88 Photex Cannon is not considered a serious combat weapon. Its overall range, quickness of reloading, and reliability in field conditions are questionable. His vehicular mode is lacking in offensive capabilities.

STATS:

Stength - 6
Intelligence - 8
Endurance - 5
Speed - 5
Rank - 7
Courage - 8
Firepower - 4
Skill - 9

Overall - 52

My thanks to everyone who sent in an entry; I didn't expect the decision to be this tough! In the end, though, this one just edged out some others in overall character presentation, and it just fit the best.

So maybe you'll see Diplomus at BotCon 2000. Probably without a faction symbol on it, though....