About Ro / FAQ

I'm Romanel Follante, born and raised in Seattle, WA, USA. Through the waves of the internet, I'm best known as a gamer on YouTube, as well as a graphic designer. I have a love for playing video games and listening to an unhealthy amount of music. I also currently work in food service, which keeps me quite busy.

Starting with my first hobby, graphic design, I started out in middle school. What started from little doodles to the creation of my former alias, "da flomanel", I found myself creating designs more and more. This was then expanded on throughout high school and college, is still something that I find myself constantly working on. These days, it's primarily just for my logo under my current "VEKTR0" alias, though from time to time, I do designs for others as well as vehicle liveries for the Grand Theft Auto modding community. These vehicle textures, which are typically released in packs, are mostly based on law enforcement agencies within the state of Washington, though my latest release was of the Oregon State Police, my first out-of-state project that was originally a private project for a friend.

As for YouTube videos, it's something that I've been doing longer than most people would realize. After originally starting off in 2010 under the "fl0manel" persona with Skate 3 videos, I decided to create a gaming-based channel, with commentary and actual editing, in 2014 under the "R0Fleming" persona. Within a month, YouTube randomly deleted the channel, so that's when "R0Gaming" was born. The decision to get serious about YouTube videos stemmed from SpeirsTheAmazingHD, BayAreaBuggs, Jeff Favignano, and Zachary Houseknecht.

The channel started out with content from LCPDFR and Euro Truck Simulator 2. Over time, these series' evolved, with LCPDFR getting a sequel, LSPDFR, which would later spin-off into the successful series dubbed as "San Andreas: Law". Euro Truck Simulator 2 got a sequel series for American Truck Simulator, and later returned under the joint series "Worldwide Trucking". The Long Dark entered the channel roster in February 2015, but was later killed off. The series then made a return in 2016 for a second season, which was then cancelled. In September 2020, the series made a surprise return. Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Siege became a part of the channel in 2016, and is currently the channel's longest running series. Life is Strange has come and gone a couple of times, and the Sims 4 had a couple of episodes back in 2015, only to later return in 2020 after the release of the Eco Lifestyle DLC. Other random games appear from time to time, and clips occassionally invade the channel.

After having ran with OnePlus devices since 2016, I felt it was time to switch things up and return to Apple's iOS platform. This being said, I'm now rocking an Apple iPhone 11 in a beautiful mint green colorway. Some specs include Apple's A13 Bionic chip, 3rd generation Neural Engine, 4GB of RAM, an IP68 rating, and a 6.1-inch Liquid Retina HD display.

As for the camera, the rear sports a 12MP Wide camera and a 12MP Ultra Wide camera, while the front features a 12MP TrueDepth camera. All cameras are capable of 4K images, 4K60 videos, and 1080p240 slow-motion videos. Night shots are only available with Wide (rear) camera. Thanks to the TrueDepth camera in the front, Face ID works flawlessly (at least in my case) and Animoji/Memoji is heckin' awesome to play around with.

The iPhone 11 runs Apple's own iOS 13, and I gotta say, it's actually a really nice, stable operating system. Comparing iOS 13 to Android 10, Apple's mobile operating system takes the cake for dark mode (nearly all of Apple's application feature dark mode), and Google takes the win for customization. Apple's continuity, AirDrop, iMessage, FaceTime, and notifications are things I am absolutely loving over Google's Android.

My social apps include Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Discord, Snapchat, and Reddit. For music, I exclusively use Spotify and YouTube Music. Utilites include Fast (a speedtest service made by Netflix), LIFX (to control my smart-lightbulbs), and Apple's Shortcuts app. Games include Alto's Odyssey, 2048, and Crossy Road (don't judge, pls), while other multimedia apps include VLC Player, YouTube, Vizio SmartCast, Netflix, Disney+, and Xfinity Stream.

When compared to my previous phone, the OnePlus 7 Pro, the iPhone 11 lacks the OLED display, the amazing screen-to-body ratio, the full HD screen resolution, the third camera that literally serves no goddamn purpose other than to be used as a gimmick, and the in-display fingerprint sensor. But the battery life is better, the facial recognition for unlocking is much more secure and faster, the general UI has been really welcoming, and the camera quality is signifcantly better for all three cameras.

The last iPhone that I owned was the iPhone 6, a device that should have never been released to the general public. The phone had so many flaws that I ended up leaving Apple behind in favor of OnePlus back in 2016. It's been a few years, and only time will tell how great or grave of a decision to return to the iOS platform will be for me. So far, though, the iPhone 11 is looking really promising.

I recently got myself the 2020 Apple iPad Pro in silver. Some specs include Apple's A12Z Bionic chip, 6GB of RAM, and an 11-inch Liquid Retina display. On May 30th, Apple will be releasing their new Magic Keyboard for the 2018 and 2020 iPad Pros, and I fully intend to pick one up.

As for the camera, the rear sports a 12MP Wide camera, a 10MP Ultra Wide camera, and a LIDAR sensor, while the front features a 7MP TrueDepth camera. All cameras are capable of 4K images, 4K60 videos, and 1080p240 slow-motion videos.

The iPad Pro runs Apple's own iPadOS 13, which is essentially just iOS 13 for iPads. With the same great features that iOS 13 includes (such as dark mode), iPadOS 13 also features (starting with iPadOS 13.4) trackpad support and a smart cursor to take productivity to the next level.

For the most part, I've installed nearly the same apps on my iPad Pro as with my iPhone 11. Social apps still include Facebook, Discord, Twitter, and Reddit. Utilities include Fast, LIFX, GeekBench, and Antutu. Media apps include Apple TV, Spotify, YouTube, YouTube Music, Disney+, Netflix, Xfinity Stream, Twitch, Lightroom, and Photoshop. My games of choice are Bitlife, Minecraft Earth, Mini Metro and Mini Motorways, and Plague Inc.

The last iPad that I owned was the iPad 3, and I was heart-broken when I had to sell it to afford other, more important things during a rough time in my life. So far, with this new iPad Pro, I am incredibly glad that I've picked a good time to rejoin the iPad family.

The VEKTR0 name is originally based on the word "vector", though it's obviously been modified with a zero instead of an 'o', and a 'k' instead of a 'c'. And of course, it's intended to be all-caps, to help it stand out more. On top of that, the 'R' was moved to be before the zero, that way my shortname, 'Ro', is perfectly fitted at the end. The name originated in mid-2015, in a small GTA Online session with some friends. Not only is 'vector' a reference to the vector designs that I've been making for the past few years, it's also one of my favorite guns. The name was publicly debuted just days after its creation.

My first real 'face' logo debuted shortly after the VEKTR0 name was unveiled, and was inspired by Barely Alive's logo. The logo changed over time, and I eventually decided to change things up and come up with an animal-based logo. 'fl0manel v1' was introduced in October 2016, and was the first of a few different fox designs. The 'fl0manel' name was my original persona back in 2008, was retired in 2013, and was reborn in 2016. The 'fl0manel' logo can commonly be seen along side the VEKTR0 name in a font titled 'Futura'.

In early 2018, my design at the time (titled 'fl0manel v3') received an update to make it neon-based. This change in design was a turning point for me, as many people enjoyed the new aesthetic. Over the following months, the coloring of the design changed to match a monthly theme. This started in February with a Valentine's Day theme, with March featuring a Saint Patrick's Day theme, April featuring an Easter theme, and May featuring a personally chosen theme. The coloring from the May update is what was used as the standard color scheme for 'fl0manel v4'.

Speaking of 'fl0manel v4', this update released on June 1st, 2018. Keeping the neon elements from v3, fl0manel went through a redesign, which saw the end of the fox and the beginning of the lynx. This newer design does not have facial features, unlike previous designs, since it just features a neon outline. This simpler aesthetic allows the design to stay simple. In December 2018, I released 'VEKTR0designs v5', a global design refresh covering VEKTR0media (my YouTube channel, with new animations and thumbnails), VEKTR0creations & VEKTR0photography (new screenshots and photograph template).

August 2019 through October 2019 featured the slow roll-out of VEKTR0v6, the latest update. In this update, fl0manel was redesigned with a new fox outfit, and I ditched the use of fonts for the VEKTR0 main logo. Instead, I took inspiration from my old logos to create a new, original design. This update also brings back monthly themes, which will start in November. Also included is a new title animation (for use with the intro and outro). The typical "Viewer Discretion is Advised" has not and will likely not be updated. The social media animations were not updated and are no longer used. In late December 2019, Project Neon Remastered was released, showing off a new dual-color scheme. Because of its appearance, the original title for the update was "PR0JECT RETR0", but was changed prior to its release.

To create all of my designs, I use Adobe Illustrator CC to create the original shape of the logos, then export the design into Adobe Photoshop CC where I do everything else. Because both programs are part of the Adobe Creative Cloud, I use both my PC and my MacBook Pro for designs. And thanks to the Adobe Creative Cloud, all of my files are stored in the cloud, so they're accessible from all of my devices. These files are periodically backed up locally, in case of connection-loss or other mishaps.

Let's start with my equipment. My microphone is a Blue Spark XLR microphone (originally used and signed by TheNorthernAlex), connected to my Behringer Q502-USB mixer, which is connected to my PC.

For recording my voice, I use Sound Forge Audio Studio 12, and apply a noise gate filter after all recordings to ensure that small/weird noises such as licking of lips and breathing are silenced.

I use Nvidia Share (previously known as Shadowplay) to record my gameplay, gameplay audio, and an extra audio source. If I'm recording with other people, this means recording (in most cases) Discord. If I'm recording by myself, I record my microphone's audio input so I can sync my audio easier.

I have 2 external hard drives, an 8TB Seagate for all of my recording files and finalized projects that are ready to be uploaded, and a 2TB Seagate for all of my editing. Once a recording is finished, I use the 8TB drive to transfer all recording files to my MacBook Pro. My MacBook Pro is used to edit videos through Final Cut Pro X, as well as create thumbnails with a custom template in Photoshop CC, and then uploaded through Microsoft Edge.

This setup will change significantly when I get my NAS (Network Attached Storage) and my PC build is completed.

Here are the main specs (full info can be found here.):

Case: NZXT H700i
CPU: Intel i9-9900KF
GPU: ASUS GeForce GTX 1080ti (Founders Edition)
RAM: Corsair Vengeance 16GB @ 3200MHz
PSU: Corsair RM850x
Storage: 2TB Samsung Evo Plus NVME SSD, 2x1TB HDD in RAID 0 configuration

First of all, I would like to thank Jase Wolf (a.k.a. Jwbjnwolf), who's been helping me with building, running, and modifying this website since the very beginning. He's also been a great friend, and has supported me and my channel for a few years, now.

Secondly, I'd like to give a shout out to Kovin for being an long-time subscriber to my channel, and being one of the most active subscribers.

Next, a huge shoutout to those who have donated to my channel, including 'somniumisdreaming', who was the first donator. Thank you so much, m'dudes.

Last, huge shoutout to my homies Mike_Art03a, JeepinDan, Hardtruck1, ShortZ, Mister_Bald, and Carper, who are part of my Bad Fellas Entertainment collective (more info on that, below).

Most of the YouTube channels that watch are gaming-related, so I have to start with SpeirsTheAmazingHD, who's the first YouTuber that I ever subscribed to. Without him, I don't know where I'd be. He's helped me through some pretty rough times, and without him, I wouldn't have found TheNorthernAlex. I also watch Call Me Kevin and James Turner.

When it comes to technology-based YouTube channels, I frequently find myself watching videos from Unbox Therapy, JayzTwoCents, and LinusTechTips.

I also watch Corridor Crew on occasion.

In early 2016, I became a part of TheNorthernAlex's community, TheNorthernPack. Through this community, I've met some awesome guys and have formed a great bond with them. We play games together, laugh, and have all sorts of fun. At some point, I thought it would be awesome if we formed an official group. In late 2017, I started our collective, Bad Fellas Entertainment. The name is from a song by Barely Alive and Astronaut, which released in mid-2015 on Disciple Recordings.

I was introduced to Hip-Hop/Rap in 2004, which I frequently listened to until 2014. In 2011, I was introduced to EDM, originally listening to Dubstep.

Though I mostly enjoy the life-threatening sounds of Dubstep (you know, the robot sex noises, growls, and storms of bass) as well as Drum & Bass, I also enjoy the calmer side of Electronic music, such as Melodic Dubstep, House, and Progressive House.

Eminem (Marshall Mathers). Simply put, the Rap God himself is forever going to be my #1 pick for best rapper. Besides his solo career, the head of Shady Records is also part of a duo with Royce da 5’9” (also a favorite rapper of mine, also from Detroit) called Bad Meets Evil, as well as a member of D12 (Dirty Dozen).

Royce da 5’9” (Ryan Daniel Montgomery) is an incredible lyricist and is part of the duo PRhyme with DJ Premier, as well as a quarter of Slaughterhouse (with Joell Ortiz, Crooked I, and Joe Budden). In 2016, Ryan started his own label, Bad Half Entertainment, and released a mixtape (“Trust The Shooter”) and a studio album (“Layers”) through it. In 2018, he released his “Book of Ryan” studio album, which features several artists such as J Cole, Eminem, Jadakiss, and Fabolous.

As of May 2018, I started listening more to G-Eazy, a Bay-Area based rapper, who's worked alongside Halsey, Dillon Francis, and E40. My favorite track with him is titled "Me, Myself, & I".

I've also started listening to Joyner Lucas, following his appearance on Eminem's "Kamikaze" album.

Here are some tracks to check out:
- “Endless Summer Freestyle”, G-Eazy, YG
- “Black Savages”, Royce Da 5'9", Sy Ari Da Kid, White Gold, CyHi the Prynce, T.I.
- “Me, Myself, & I”, G-Eazy, Bebe Rexha
- “When It's All Gone”, Terror Reid
- “Cocaine”, Royce Da 5'9"
- “I Love”, Joyner Lucas
- “Tabernacle”, Royce Da 5'9"
- “Not Alike”, Eminem, Royce Da 5'9"
- “Dumb”, Royce Da 5'9", Boogie
- “I Mean It”, G-Eazy
- “Same Bitches”, Post Malone, G-Eazy, YG
- “You Got Me”, G-Eazy

Since the days of DESTROID, a group headed by Excision, an artist by the name of "Space Laces" has always had my attention. While he may not have released very much content when compared to other artists around him, his unique sound design and hilarious endings to songs makes his music of high quality. He finally released his first EP (Overdrive EP) on June 6th, 2018, through Never Say Die Records.

In 2015, I discovered an artist going by the name "Soltan", who is yet another great artist with unique sound design.

An artist by the name of "Chime" has been around a while, having released music through several record labels, including Firepower Records and Circus Records. Previously known as "Dec3mber", Chime has a very digital sound design, frequently featuring sound effects from video games. He makes a good range of music, from Melodic Dubstep to heavier Dubstep.

Next up is the legendary Virtual Riot, a German producer who's created amazing songs across several genres (Dubstep, Melodic, Riddim, and Future Bass). Valentin is signed to Disciple Recordings.

Last, but certainly not least, Barely Alive. Currently my favorite duo in music, Matt and Willie have released plenty of tracks across several genres, from Dubstep, to Drum & Bass, to Hip-Hop/Rap, to Trap, and so on. They are signed to Disciple Recordings.

Other great artists include Eptic, Carbin, Myro, PhaseOne, Hi I'm Ghost, & Bandlez.

Here are some tracks to check out:
- “Meme Graveyard”, Bandlez, Barely Alive [DUBSTEP]
- “Deeper In Love”, Barely Alive, Great Good Fine OK [ELECTRONIC]
- “Overdrive”, Space Laces [DUBSTEP]
- “Triforce (Eliminate Remix)”, Panda Eyes, Virtual Riot, Barely Alive, Eliminate [DUBSTEP]
- “Beyond the Stars”, Eptic [MELODIC]
- “Last Stand”, Dirtyphonics, PhaseOne [DUBSTEP]
- “Your Love (Myro Remix)”, Dodge & Fuski, Myro [DUBSTEP]
- “Weeble Wobble”, Barely Alive [DUBSTEP]
- “Lol Trap Music”, Hi I'm Ghost, WYD! [RIDDIM]
- “Throne”, Carbin [DUBSTEP]
- “Lost It (VIP)”, Virtual Riot, Pearl Anderson [DUBSTEP]
- “You're Gonna Love Me”, Eliminate, Leah Culver [MELODIC]
- “Rumble”, Space Laces, Excision [DUBSTEP]
- “We Don't Play”, 12th Planet, Bandlez, Barely Alive, Chibs, Dirtyphonics, Dodge & Fuski, Eliminate, Fox Stevenson, Hatcha, Infekt, Modestep, MVRDA, Myro, Oliverse, PhaseOne, SampliFire, Terravita, Truth, Virtual Riot, Virus Syndicate [DUBSTEP]

For more songs that I recommend, check out my Spotify playlist.