I was about to take a look at the Mobfeed when I noticed the headline on the front page about former EGM staffer Andy Baran's passing. At first, I thought it was some sort of crazy April Fools' joke. Then I sadly realized that it was July, and that this article was in fact real. I wouldn't say that I knew Andy very well compared to those who had the chance to work with the man, but in his honor, I'd like to share a few personal memories that involved him in some way.

Way back before I had access to cheat sites like GameFAQs, I was puzzled by pictures on the back of Beyond the Beyond for the PlayStation, which showed an optional character named Lorele. Unable to find her, I desperately penned a letter to EGM's sister publication EGM2, begging for help. It was published along with a solution, courtesy of Cyber (Andy) and his girlfriend. I'll always be grateful for that help.

Years later, I was browsing through blogs at 1UP.com when I came upon the page of A_Baran. It was cool seeing a classic EGM writer using the site, so I made sure to read and comment on a few of his early posts. He noticed my remarks and even pointed out the fact that we were both members of a somewhat infamous GameFAQs message board. He mentioned that he was #2 on their achievement leaderboard, trailing behind one other gamer, who just so happened to be me. Having Andy as a 1UP friend and reading his feedback on my writing was truly an honor.

My sympathies go out to Andy's loved ones. Rest in peace, my friend.