NationStates Flag Bracket II (Congratulations to Albali!)

[Valentine Z]

Will there be a competition for the memorial ceremony ? + Voting for the flags we make ourselves for commemoration should not count.

I am honestly not sure what kind of problem you have with me, but the only reason I nominated, so to speak, is because I wanted to put this in my Dispatch. I did that with the previous bracket by asking Cosmic, regardless of positions, because I want to keep a record of participation as well. Not the first time you have railed on me. I genuinely asked for your opinion and constructive criticism, and you waved me off with an eyerolling emote that I greatly vex, on top of "You should respect other's opinions." Well, at least give me the criticism, then.

Now leave me alone.

---

I'm sorry I unironically cannot keep this wholesome. I really need to let this out before moving forward.

[Hakinda Herseyi Duymak istiyorum]

Will there be a competition for the memorial ceremony ? + Voting for the flags we make ourselves for commemoration should not count.

I am honestly not sure what kind of problem you have with me, but the only reason I nominated, so to speak, is because I wanted to put this in my Dispatch. I did that with the previous bracket by asking Cosmic, regardless of positions, because I want to keep a record of participation as well.

Now leave me alone.

Omg No, I have no problem, please don't take it that way, I just said my opinion.I think it makes more sense to vote for a flag other than your own in the mentions section. My aim was not to make you sad

Edit
My English is bad, you may be misunderstanding me, again I want you to understand that my goal is not to hurt you.

[The Cosmic Mainframe]

The Albalian Kingdom (by Fallen Albali) defeats Bloodshade 14-11.
Congratulations, Albali! Bloodshade may not have won this round, but it does (likely) mean that they will receive their prize early!

Top 8 Match 3
Samantha-Higgs (by Valentine Z) vs Kycci Province (by Onocarcass)
Vote for your favorite flag and, if you want, explain your preference in the thread!

Due to a large number of nominations earlier, no new flags may be nominated for an Honorable Mentions. Everyone in the top 8 will receive a prize - these matches will determine just how large that prize is!

Samantha-Higgs
The current flag of my dictatorship nation, which I went for subtlety instead of for obviousness. The Morse Code says: "Bow down to your Eternal Ruler."

Kycci Province

My opinion: Again, both of these flags are excellent. However, I find Samantha-Higgs' flag to be a bit more unique, with its incorporation of Morse code, and I also prefer the color scheme.

[Paradeavenlisian States]

Which flag, between Kycci Province and Samantha-Higgs, will I vote for?

---

Simplicity:For simplicity, I would say that Samantha-Higgs' flag is more simplistic. Their flag consists of what seems to be a futuristic-looking seal with a morse code surrounding a yellow symbol with a ''V'' symbol dissecting the yellow symbol (I'm presuming that's a futuristic coat of arms or an emblem). All of these features are relatively simplistic although the morse code may be a little confusing to some in sketching out, especially in encircled form. Kycci's flag is comprised of a maroon field with two thin bands on the each top and bottom side with a star and an extremely detailed eagle in the centre. Now, while the layout (excluding the symbolism) is simplistic, I do think that their symbolism, specifically the eagle, is extremely detailed, considerably more so than any of Samantha-Higgs' features.

---

Originality:For originality, I think Samantha-Higgs' flag is more original because it has a rather unique colour scheme (both in terms of the colours themselves and their implementation), coupled with the symbolism used in the centre and, most of all, the morse code which has never been featured on any other flag before and is, arguably, one of the most unique aspects of S-Higgs' flag. However, that doesn't mean that Kycci's flag completely lacks in originality as the design and the way in which the eagle is displayed is still quite unique instead of displaying the eagle in mid-flight showing off its front features and the positioning of the stars is something notable as well in originality. Not only that, but I'd argue that Kycci's flag does have the more original colours because murray, yellow and white have never been displayed in a flag together. It's just that the symbolism on Samantha-Higgs' flag is far more unconventionally distinguishing.

---

Colour Scheme:For the colour scheme, this is where things get tough in determining but I will have to give this one to Samantha-Higgs' flag simply because of the subtleness behind those colours, they feel slightly more appealing to me and they are quite in-depth in meaning (in spite of the clear lack of a description) as shown through their use of yellow and royal blue which could possibly represent the power of the ruler (in terms of the control imposed which is emphasised by the latter's use as a predominant colour of the field). While Kycci Province's flags are clearly more striking and memorable, I just don't think the flags feel as in-depth in terms of meaning (visually-wise).

---

Design:In terms of the design, this is, perhaps, the hardest category to determine but I will give this one to Samantha-Higgs' flag because it is meaningful and, while it does not have that much in its description, we do know for certain that the morse code, as shown in their description, translates to "Bow down to your eternal ruler" which could indicate the sheer relevance of their leader. In addition, the fact that it surrounds the emblem in the centre could represent what would be deemed in the nation as the "necessary oppression of the people" and the sheer authority imposed on them used to prevent its people from harming themselves. The emblem in the centre could further emphasise this and while it is hard to know precisely the meaning behind the V, it could possibly represent Samantha-Higgs, since several aspects of her name do begin with the letter "V" and how much her presence as ruler affects the lives of the people. In regards of the appeal and weight that the features bring into the design, they do quite well in doing so and the well-designed morse code and emblem of the flag make for a nice, rather refreshing alternative to the over generic field-with-seal designs used in other flags with a blue field. Also, I find their design to be far more creative than Kycci Province's flag to be honest. Speaking of which, while Kycci Province's flag is, arguably, more striking and could, potentially, have more of a meaning and more character when it comes to its central symbols, I do think that Kycci Province's flag simply does not have the consistent crispness, cleanness nor subtleness of Samantha-Higgs' design to beat it out.

---

Realism:In regards to realism, I think I'll give this to Kycci's flag because it could work quite well for an alternative flag for a US state in the southwest, particularly such for Utah, Nevada or Arizona or perhaps for a flag for an alternate Deseret nation due to its use of symbolism and the desert-esque colour scheme. However, I do feel like its jagged edges along with the position of the star may make it a little off among closer inspection. For Samantha-Higgs' flag, while the colours are definitely grounded enough to fit as a real world flag, I'm not entirely certain about the plausibility of certain aspects. For instance, while the morse code is implemented well-enough for an FT flag, I'm not entirely certain about the plausibility of the carved-out "V" shape in the emblem for any sort of flag in general although it is implemented well enough to mitigate the off-puttingness factor emanating from it. Overall, while most aspects of the design are definitely plausible enough for an FT nation, the questionable plausibility of some features is strong enough to prevent it from beating out Kycci's flag in realism and plausibility, even as an FT flag.

---

Verdict:Overall, winning in 4 out of 5 of the categories above, at least from my point of view, I will vote for Samantha-Higgs' flag because it is far more original, feels more simplistic as a design, has slightly more appealing colours, seemsmore overall meaning in most aspects from a visual standpoint(except the central symbolism), its atmosphere of subtleness that it emanates, its creativity and its more consistent crispness and cleanness. While Kycci Province's flag does have more striking colours and design, has arguably more meaning and character in its central symbols and is more conventional and, therefore, plausible for a real world flag, it just does not have enough creativity, originality, consistent cleanness nor crispness to beat Samantha-Higgs' flag in this match-up.

[Onocarcass]

It's hard to believe that the contest is almost over, lol.

[Hakinda Herseyi Duymak istiyorum]

Samantha-Higgs win, please let the matches end on time, it's late again

[Paradeavenlisian States]

Samantha-Higgs win, please let the matches end on time, it's late again

TCM isn't online right now though and although they were last online at 2:00PM (BST), they probably had to focus on something else (OOCly). As frustrating as this may be for many, please try and be patient as best as you can.

[The Cosmic Mainframe]

Sorry, I completely forgot to update the bracket today. I have school right now and won't be able to until it's already too late in the day. So you may enjoy an extra day of voting for this round. I doubt it will change the outcome.

[Hakinda Herseyi Duymak istiyorum]

Sorry, I completely forgot to update the bracket today. I have school right now and won't be able to until it's already too late in the day. So you may enjoy an extra day of voting for this round. I doubt it will change the outcome.

I hope Samantha-Higgs (by Valentine Z) wins the flag.I won't change my vote but I think it's injustice

[Paradeavenlisian States]

I hope Samantha-Higgs (by Valentine Z) wins the flag.I won't change my vote but I think it's injustice

Yeah, I kind of want their flag to win to be honest for a similar reason.

I doubt it will change the outcome.

And... so far it looks like it will (I know it's a tight match and all but just saying).
Edit:NVM it's changed now.

[Vaspelia]

Man, i see school is making some people get busy these days. Whatever happends, i wish you all big success.
>t. the neet in quarantined limbo
Also if anyone asks: While Kycci's flag is a badass one. My vote went for the superior symbolism of S-H.

[Onocarcass]

I'd be lying if I said I didn't want to win, but It'd definitely feel kinda dirty if I did at this point. I'm happy with a top 8 finish either way. I guess regardless of what happens, you have a top notch flag here Val

[Bloodshade]

Ouchie, I've reached the end of my time in the competition but I'm honestly not too disappointed losing to a fantastic flag like Albali's royal flag. Kudos and congrats!

In any case, I've personally voted for the Samantha Higgs flag. The morse code just seals the deal for me although that's not to say Kycci Province isn't a stellar flag. It looks fantastic. It's a very close match honestly.

In any case, it is unfortunate that the results haven't been updated but I don't mind the lateness considering IRL responsibilities come first.

[The Cosmic Mainframe]

In any case, it is unfortunate that the results haven't been updated but I don't mind the lateness considering IRL responsibilities come first.

Thanks for your understanding. I wouldn't be surprised if this happens again, but there are only four matches left after this so I'll try my best to post all of them on time.

And, for this exact reason, I won't be immediately starting NS Flag Bracket III after this bracket ends.

[The Cosmic Mainframe]

Samantha-Higgs (by Valentine Z) ties with Kycci Province (by Onocarcass) 20-20.
Seriously? Two ties in the top 8? Anyway, congrats to both submitters. I've shuffled things around so that there won't be a four-way match, though I'll shuffle the matches again if Esceanian wins to prevent them from being matched against themselves.

Top 8 Match 4
Alanis Star (by Valentine Z) vs Esceanian Union (by Paradeavenlisian States)
Vote for your favorite flag and, if you want, explain your preference in the thread!

Due to a large number of nominations earlier, no new flags may be nominated for an Honorable Mentions. Everyone in the top 8 will receive a prize - these matches will determine just how large that prize is!

Alanis Star
The current flag of my second oldest puppet, just right after Valentine Z being my first.

Esceanian Union
The red represents the phoenixes as the co-inhabitants while the blue represents the maritime culture that has been associated with the native Homo Coelum. The white stripe represents the peaceful interactions between the humanoids and the phoenixes. And, lastly, the torches represent prosperity and hope maintained throughout the Esceanian Union.

My opinion: I'm somewhat tempted to vote for Alanis Star, but the design of the Esceanian Union's flag is still possibly the best in this bracket - great colors and layout combined - so they still receive my vote.

[Paradeavenlisian States]

Seriously? Two ties in the top 8? Anyway, congrats to both submitters. I've shuffled things around so that there won't be a four-way match, though I'll shuffle the matches again if Esceanian wins to prevent them from being matched against themselves.

Yeah... I'm really hoping this match doesn't become another tie either otherwise that might seriously mess things up.

Anyways, I have a solid feeling this will be a close one. Furthermore, I wish good luck to Val Z and their submission and may the best flag win!

[Valentine Z]

A very minor nitpick, but the header still says Match 3 when we are already in Match 4.

[Hakinda Herseyi Duymak istiyorum]

The Paradeavenlisian States flag was always behind other flags on other tours.Flag was able to enter the flags I love on this tour

[Onocarcass]

I feel like Val won that one, I think someone switched their vote because before I went to sleep the vote was definitely 21-19 in favor of S-H

[The Cosmic Mainframe]

Esceanian Union (by Paradeavenlisian States) defeats Alanis Star (by Valentine Z) 20-5.
Congratulations PS on making it in to the top 6 flags twice! Semifinal matches have been shuffled accordingly. This is by a pretty high margin for this late in the bracket.

Semifinals Match 1
Three-way match
Sildorian Empire vs Paradeavenlisian States - Main Flag vs The Albalian Kingdom (by Fallen Albali)
Vote for your favorite flag and, if you want, explain your preference in the thread!

Due to a large number of nominations earlier, no new flags may be nominated for an Honorable Mentions. Everyone in the top 8 will receive a prize - these matches will determine just how large that prize is!

Sildorian Empire

Paradeavenlisian States
The colour scheme has, perhaps, the most detailed meaning to it. Each colour represents each major native species(and sub species) and region of Paradeavenlisian States(all of which actually have good reasons involving the major habitats and cultures of Paradeavenlisian States.

The blue represents Homo Coelum, Plymnola and the ocean as blue is associated with the sea, which is also what the culture of Homo Coelum is often associated with. One reason why the blue also represents the ocean is because the vast ocean was(along with the storm)what has made Paradeavenlisian States into the truly unique and distinct nation it is today, which also explains why the blue is the biggest colour in the flag.

The green represents Homo Tierra, Belltona and the environment, particularly the vast forests as green is associated with the environment especially forests and Homo Tierra seems to have had the oldest bond with nature out of any native intelligent sentient beings. This is due to the fact that their region, Belltona, has the highest percentage of forest cover of any region. In addition, it also represents the main political party of Paradeavenlisian States: United Green Party.

The yellow represents Homo Paradis, Angelshear, as well as the strong and flexible economy of PS and vast meadows of flowers in Angelshear. The reason why it represents Homo Paradis is because of the vast amount of agriculture they had conducted historically. It also represents the tranquil beaches of Paradeavenlisian States.

The white represents the sub species of Homo Coelum(Homo Coelum Farc in Logreyhiel), Logreyhiel and white-capped mountains and volcanoes dotted across the nation. It, along with the stars in general, represent the extremely long-term peace that has been experienced throughout the archipelago.

The antlers represent the strong bond and coexistence held between the humanoids and other animals for millions of years. In addition, what many people don't seem to know is that the antlers actually also represent the phoenixes(yes, the phoenixes of Paradeavenlisian States have antlers) especially the guardian phoenixes that patrol near the storm.

The yellow outline of the shield represents the storm itself as well as all of the other defenses of Paradeavenlisian States as a whole. The stars themselves actually represent the archipelago of Paradavenlisian States as a whole and shows the stability brought and gifted to the nation as a result of these defenses. The stars also represent the peaceful unification and peaceful coexistence between the people of Paradeavenlisian States and additionally represent the 5 groups of native humanoids: Homo Sapiens, Homo Coelum, Homo Paradis, Homo Tierra and Homo Coelum (although not a seperate humanoid species, they are notably distinct from other Homo Coelum sub-species, especially culturally and morphological characteristic). Another thing that the stars represent is the Stangelic Energy which has had a huge impact on the nation.

The Albalian Kingdom
The Albalian Kingdom's flag has been the longest-lived of all of Albali's flags, going unaltered for hundreds upon hundreds of years. The origins of the raptor has already been explained for the Republic's flag, so I won't explain it here. Blue and gold have traditionally been symbols of wealth in ancient times; gold because of the actual element of gold which was just as valuable to an alien community as it was for humans. Blue came from having blue clothing, as blue dyes were extremely rare and could only be afforded by the richest of the richest. Despite that no longer being the case, the connotations of associating the colour blue with outrageous wealth continued. A stylised wreath of olive branches sits below the raptor, representing one simple thing: victory. Meanwhile, the crown sitting higher than the stars above the raptor is no coincidence; it represents the power of the monarch - and by extension the state - being greater than that of even the stars themselves. This arrogant attitude had brought war to Albali's doorsteps more than once.

My opinion: Of these three, the best one is probably Sildorian Empire's flag. It's got an excellent design, a nice dark color scheme, and an interesting symbol. Albalian Kingdom comes close, but doesn't quite match the quality of Sildorian's color scheme.

Bloodshade will be receiving their legendary card as soon as I can gift it. Also, I realized I had the date wrong on all of the honorable mentions, so I will be re-uploading them with the correct date (09-02 rather than 08-02). Just a heads up for everyone.

[New Solaurora]

This is the worst possible outcome. Now we must choose between these three wonderfully made flags. How could you allow this TCM?

[Paradeavenlisian States]

This is the worse possible outcome. Now we must choose between these three wonderfully made flags. How could you allow this TCM?

RNG. That's why.

[Zandilund]

Sorry for The Allied Tribe's inactivity, I haven't been paying much attention to this tournament.

For the next tournament, can we have a losing flag take part in a three-way match instead of a winning one? Now, losing flags may have a chance to win, but I think that that's better than preventing a winning flag from advancing and maybe even winning.

[The Cosmic Mainframe]

This is the worse possible outcome. Now we must choose between these three wonderfully made flags. How could you allow this TCM?

The matches are picked by RNG with a small amount of human interference to prevent 4-way matches and matches between two of the same submitter's flags. And keep in mind that all of these flags' submitters are already going to win legendary cards as prizes just for making it into the top 8. These last few matches just determine how valuable their prize is; last place in this match will still get a prize worth at least 16.00.

[The Cosmic Mainframe]

Sorry for The Allied Tribe's inactivity, I haven't been paying much attention to this tournament.

For the next tournament, can we have a losing flag take part in a three-way match instead of a winning one? Now, losing flags may have a chance to win, but I think that that's better than preventing a winning flag from advancing and maybe even winning.

Flag Bracket III won't happen for a while, though there's a good chance that I will change the format when it happens. Maybe one of the changes will be a second chance for flags that are eliminated early.