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20 Best VR Porn Games to Play in 2022Corvelay Mediaon September 3, 2022 at 1:00 pm

We’re no longer in the days of dial up modems and slow loading sites. We’re in the age of broadband and virtual reality 3D porn, bringing fantasies to life in ways previously unimagined. But rather than just getting a show, why not earn your pleasure through exciting and immersive gameplay?

We’ve played our fair share of porn games and 3D VR sex simulators, and we can tell you that some outshine others. If you think about it, there are a lot of boxes that need to be checked in order to make a VR porn game one of the best. Not all of them live up to the hype, and it can be frustrating to go through the trouble of spending time or energy on a subpar game.

That’s why we’ve come up with this master list of the 20+ best VR porn games in 2022. These games feature award-winning technology, insanely realistic graphics, immersive plot lines, and wild erotic scenes. Buckle uop.

Best VR Porn Games in 2022

RankGameBest For1.VRPornBest overall VR porn game with the most options2.SinVRTaboo VR porn games3.DezyredChoose-your-own-adventure porn game4.HolodexxxPhotorealistic versions of pornstars to play with5.3DXChatMultiplayer VR porn game community6.Dominatrix SimulatorFantasy dom goddesses tell you what to do7.Let’s Play With NanaiA hentai girlfriend experience8.Citor3Quick games that are under 30 minutes9.XStoryPlayerPlot-heavy immersive game10.VRLoveChoose between Free Mode or Story Mode

Deciding Which Game to PlayWith so many games to choose from, When deciding which game to play, there are some key factors to pay attention to. The games on this list already hit the mark in terms of visuals and technology. To decide which game is right for you, you’ll want to ask yourself a few questions:

1.  What is your kink?Most of these games allow for customizable experiences and take you into different environments. However, some are catered to a more specific niche. For instance, Dominatrix Simulator is a game that’s made for subs who enjoy BDSM. Anyone who isn’t into that kink is not going to enjoy the game and shouldn’t waste their time on it. There are also hentai-specific genres or games that include characters resembling familiar stars in the adult industry.

2.  Do you have time?There are games that last 20 minutes and others that go on for hours. What are you in the mood for? The sex games that allow you to explore an entire universe could be played for days, while other games, like the ones created at the Citor3 studio, are designed for quickies.

3.  How important is storyline?Some porn games fall short in the plot department. That’s OK for folks who want total control over their avatar and simply want to enjoy hot sexual experiences. For people who enjoy the element of strategy, they’ll need more than a sex simulator or a multiplayer interactive universe such as 3DXChat. A great example of a game that requires strategy is XStoryPlayer, where you need to please the women to earn your reward.

However, the most important thing is having the right equipment. Make sure your personal VR equipment is compatible with the game before buying it. For instance, Dezyred (a great choose-your-own-adventure porn game) is compatible with Oculus Quest but not Oculus Go. This information is usually readily available to you at the bottom of the website homepage for most of these games.

1.  VRPorn.com – Best VR Porn Games Overall

Ok, so VRPorn.com isn’t technically a game itself. It’s actually a host to a great collection of adult games, all of which are pretty awesome with great visuals, and that’s why VRPorn.com makes the top of our list. Among those games are some of the most popular titles, like Captain Hardcore and Maya’s Library Rendezvous. Side note—why are librarians always so hot?

Your VRPorn.com subscription will grant you more than just games though. If you’re reading this article, chances are that you already love VR porn. This site will have you killing two birds with one stone as it also grants you access to thousands of VR adult scenes that include some of the best adult actresses of our time.

VRPorn.com is also one of the most affordable ways to enjoy VR sex games. With over 20 titles to choose from, you might find yourself spending a little too much time on the site. Better stock up on the lube!

Pros:

Many titles to choose fromBest VR porn display qualityNot expensiveOther VR porn content

Cons:

Some titles outshine others

2.  SinVR – Best Fantasy Porn Game

Do you consider yourself a sinner? Most people who enjoy SinVR definitely do. This adult game plops you into the raunchy world of fantasy, cosplay, and sci-fi. Remember those choose-your-own-adventure books we used to read in grade school? SinVR takes that concept and makes it adult-friendly.

It would be hard to touch on all there is to do at SinVR in one review, but know that there’s a little something for everyone. Whether you enjoy playing with the naughty teacher, or want to travel back to medieval times to entertain a dragon milf, this site has got you covered with some of the most dazzling graphics out there. Plus, they are constantly adding new exciting scenes to choose from.

Some games let you personalize the characters, but SinVR has done the work for you by creating some of the sexiest fantasy girls to play with. You can purchase them separately, but it means that you get to enjoy them for life. No membership required!

Pros:

Great for kinksFun fantasy plotAmazing visualsAll the women are unique

Cons:

No character customizationLacking in facial expressions

3.  Dezyred – Best Live Action Porn Game

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to spend time with your favorite porn star? Dezyred can make your dreams come true! Rather than taking the classic porn game approach and developing an entire storyline, Dezyred allows you to call all the shots in this 360 degree realistic porn game. Created by the geniuses behind VRBangers, Dezyred allows you to pick a star (such as Angela White or Lacy Lennon) to spend some quality time with.

While in the game, you are able to spend some relaxing casual time with these stars. You can do things as simple as making them breakfast, or you can tease them and request a show. You are the star of the show and all control is completely within your grasp.

The game operates on a credit-based system rather than a one-time fee. That can be pretty annoying for some folks, but you will be granted 600 credits when you start the game, which actually goes a long way. Use your credits to make requests throughout the game. Yes, the micro-transactions will eventually add up, so prepare to spend some money. This game is compatible with most headsets including Oculus Quest. Oculus Go compatibility is coming soon.

Pros:

Free (before the micro-transactions)Choose-your-own-adventure game typeCharacters inspired by porn starsPart of VRBangers

Cons:

The micro-transactions add upThe storyline is kind of bland

4. Holodexxx – Most Realistic Porn Game

While porn games are about bringing your ultimate fantasies to life, you still want the sensations and body movements to be as realistic as possible. Holodexx is one of the most futuristic porn games, using advanced technology to bring photo-realistic game versions of your favorite porn stars to life. Using photogrammetry, Holodexxx has scanned some of the most beautiful girls in the biz to turn them into spicy game pieces.

The graphics in this game are absolutely unparalleled and we’re fascinated that the world is technologically advanced enough to do something like this. Stars like Riley Reid and Mia Malkova have been digitally copied so that you can get the full electric experience with them. Imagine trying to explain this technology to the avid porn-watcher in the 80s. It would absolutely blow their mind!

Plus, their scenes are really interesting. Turn yourself into a porn director by propping the girls where you want them and directing them through scenes. Or, you can explore Lady Euphoria’s banging body in your very own customized room.

Pros:

Extremely realisticFantastic texture displayCharacters inspired by real pornstarsTechnologically advanced

Cons:

The plotlines could be betterThe scenes all look the same

5.  3DXChat – Best Multiplayer

Here’s a game for the social butterflies. 3DXChat is a community of fantasy porn lovers who are all interacting with each other, rather than just their computers. You start the game by designing your avatar with options that make them customizable from head to toe. Between hair color, body type, outfit and more, you have access to the technology to create your ultimate dream character. This game provides a uniquely sensual experience that allows you to connect with others across the VR porn world.

It adds a whole new layer to VR porn games by introducing you to real people who are experiencing genuine reactions to your virtual touch. The sounds they make are coming from genuine interest and weren’t manufactured or formulated by a computer. Someone can actually respond to your kinky words with actual thoughts. It’s incredibly riveting to be a part of such an active online sex community.

Given the intense design and unique approach, the price is right. You won’t be breaking the bank to experience this exciting VR porn game.

Pros:

Big VR porn communityExperience genuine reactions from real playersSatisfying experienceAffordable

Cons:

With a multiplayer game, your chance of getting laid depends on how the other players feel about you.

6.  Dominatrix Simulator – Best BDSM Game

If you aren’t into BDSM, then don’t bother reading this review because it’ll be a waste of time. Dominatrix Simulator was created specifically with doms and subs (especially submissives) in mind and isn’t for the faint of heart. If BDSM is your chosen kink, then do read on as this is the best BDSM VR porn game available for you.

The game begins by placing you in the submissive role of a prisoner under the watchful eye of dominating goddesses. They need you to obey their every command, or you risk getting devilishly punished. There are various dominating goddesses to meet as you make your way through this game, each with a unique way of running the temple.

With some of the best voice acting we’ve ever heard in a game, Dominatrix Simulator will have you forgetting where the temple fantasy ends and real life begins. You might find yourself getting lost in the hot sauce, but that’s OK. That is exactly how this game was designed to make players feel.

Pros:

Deep-dive into the BDSM fantasySexy characters punish youSome of the best VR porn visualsConvincing voice acting

Cons:

Only good for submissive types

7.  Let’s Play With Nanai – Best Hentai VR Porn Game

If you don’t already know, hentai is a combination of manga and anime, usually in a sexual and explicit context. Over the last decade, hentai porn has outranked other popular categories in the porn industry, so it makes sense that there’s a VR porn game dedicated specifically to it. If you love hentai or manga, you’ll go nuts for this game which is based around one cute and sexy character: Nanai.

Nanai is your virtual girlfriend who you get to play with! For around $30, you can have access to Nanai whenever you want. And, she really is the perfect little hentai girlfriend who does and says all the right things. Her level of kink and naughtiness is within your control, so she really is perfect for you! With teledildonic technology, Nanai can be synched up to your sex doll, making the experience even more realistic as you play with the bubbly and sweet Nanai.

We’re big fans of this game, but we wish that a little more creativity and money were put towards the graphics. They aren’t up to par with some of the other sites on this list. However, in the world of anime and hentai, flatter cartoonish art is sometimes better and more desirable.

Pros:

One of the best hentai porn gamesGet the girlfriend experienceNanai can be whoever you want her to beHer reactions feel real

Cons:

Visuals are lackingOnly one character

8.  Citor3 – Best Short Games

Citor3 is actually a studio that specializes in short and kinky 3D VR porn games. If you’re in search of a quick fix, Citor3 will surely provide. Each game has its own theme that you’ll love. Whether you’re into BDSM, public sex, or want to get raunchy in an office, Citor3 has you covered. Because the games are shorter, a lot of special attention has been put into making the graphics amazing. You might not be there for a long time, but you’ll definitely have a good time.

A lot of research went into the development of this game with the creator digging into his research of the porn-lover psyche. They want to create a tiny world within each game where every player leaves feeling satisfied and content. They’ve done a great job so far and we’re excited to watch how this studio evolves.

They have over 20 titles for you to browse through with each one providing something unique and tantalizing. Because the games are so short, you can give one a try before diving into the rest of them. On the homepage, you can play a preview of the games to get a taste for what’s to come. You’ll see right then and there what we mean about the incredible graphics.

Pros:

Short games for quickiesPreviews of the gamesMultiple gamesThe creators are always updating the games

Cons:

No option to make the games longerSome games are better than othersVisuals could be better for a handful of the games

9.  XStoryPlayer – Most Captivating

Think about why you love 3D VR porn. Is it for the escape to a new world? If you want to get lost in a beautiful VR porn game for hours (and we mean close to seven hours per game), then you need to play XStoryPlayer. This game is captivating, incredibly immersive, and extremely engaging. It’s one of the only games on this list that requires real psychological strategy.

The characters in XStoryPlayer aren’t going to jump when you tell them to. To get laid playing this game, you need to finesse, coax, and even date them. For instance, in this game you might find yourself on a dating site within the game (talk about meta!) and meeting up with a cutie in town.

While they want you to think there’s no guarantee for getting laid—because that makes the game more fun—you can rest assured that you will get your rocks off playing this! Once you win over a girl, there are no restrictions to what you can do with her within the game. Don’t get too rough though, because the characters will rebuff you if they aren’t into it. You just have to ask yourself, are you charming enough to win her over?

Pros:

Strategy implementationNot every character wants you, making the game more interestingYou have to court the charactersComplex storylineInsanely immersive

Cons:

Not for instant gratificationToo long for some folks (five to seven hours)Visuals could be better

10.  VRLove – Choose Between Free Mode And Story Mode

There’s a lot to love with the VRLove game. This 3D VR porn game puts you in the driver’s seat in terms of who you are able to interact with and get frisky with. This game comes to you from VirtualRealPorn, which is famous in the industry for having the sharpest visuals. This game is no different and feels effortlessly smooth as you navigate through VRLove.

Choose to play in Free Mode or Story Mode. Story Mode will guide you much more and it will feel more game-like. Free Mode will feel a bit like a choose-your-own-adventure game. Picking between the two is really just a matter of preference.

We like Story Mode a bit better because there’s more of a tantalizing increase of tension and a real plot to follow. Who doesn’t love a little foreplay? However, no matter which mode you choose, you will love the way the virtual models interact with you in this game. If you enjoy being dominating, you’ll be pleased to know that these characters were created to obey your every wish and command.

Pros:

Smooth and visually stimulatingSharp imagery and texture visualsStory Mode or Free Mode availableConvincing submissive charactersTeledildonic synchronization

Cons:

Not many, but other games have been more fun in our opinion

Honorable Mentions:Date Night – A puzzle game like candy crush that rewards you with 3D VR sex. This is a free game, but will tempt you with micro-transactions.

Egirl VR – A realistic girlfriend game where you can talk and play with a virtual girlfriend in different scenes and environments

SexMachineVR – A post-apocalyptic game where players can use toys and machines to engage with the characters

Honey Select – A hentai VR porn game with extremely detailed and advanced customization features

Pornflix And Chill – A simple gaming experience that begins with you watching porn in a room with a girl. As you cozy up to her, you eventually become the show!

La Douche – “Douche” in French means shower. This game takes you on a voyeuristic adventure where you can watch a beautiful avatar go through her routine.

Fallen Doll – Using a sex robot, it’s your job to please the customers in your virtual sex club. Earn virtual money as you play your way up through the game!

Captain Hardcore – This is more of a party than it is a game! Hang out with as many characters as you want while you orchestrate a fantastical orgy.

Virt-A-Mate – Customize your avatar to play this immersive sex-simulation game!

MirageVR – This game didn’t make the list because it’s not ready yet! The game, still in development, is one to watch out for as it has the best graphics we’ve seen thus far in any VR porn game.

VR Porn Games FAQs:

What should I do if I am new to playing VR porn games?The best way to experience VR porn games is to visit VRPorn.com. They are at the top of our list for a reason and a great way to start out. Not only do they provide a variety of games, but they also provide a user-friendly interface and the sexiest visuals in the game. They are, by far, the best option.

Are sex simulators the same as VR porn games?Some of the games on this list don’t take plot largely into account. They place you in a fantasy world where you can essentially get away with whatever you want. This is attractive to players who love control, but it might get boring for someone who wants a bit more gameplay.

Do I need the most expensive VR equipment?This hurts to admit, but the best VR porn gaming is had by those with the best equipment. As this technology advances, the headsets will become cheaper. We do suggest you invest in a decent headset though, and one that’s compatible with most sites and games. Oculus makes great headsets that get the job done.

If quality isn’t all that important to you, you can always get a mediocre headset or try to enjoy the VR sex game on your mobile device. You won’t be getting the most out of the experience, but it’s an affordable way to dip your toes in the water to see if you’d like to eventually invest in better equipment.

Do all “free games” include micro-transactions?A micro-transaction is something that usually occurs in free VR porn games. You’ll begin playing for free, and then you’ll be prompted to pay for the characters to perform for you. It happens a lot when playing free VR porn games. They have to make their money somehow.

Are all VR porn games customizable?Most VR porn games will let you customize your avatar or the character you will be banging. These customizations can sometimes get really specific. Design the woman of your dreams or make yourself well-endowed. The possibilities are endless. There are some games that have created the characters for you already, which can also be nice.

Are VR porn games compatible with teledildonic sex toys?Teledildonic sex toys are toys that are able to be synched to your VR porn viewing or playing. They add a physical element to the already immersive experience, and they’re freaking awesome. While not all games incorporate teledildonics, more studios are beginning to see the value in it. We predict that eventually, most (if not all) games will give you the option to utilize teledildonic technology.

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20 Best VR Porn Games to Play in 2022Corvelay Mediaon September 3, 2022 at 1:00 pm Read More »

Listen to The Ben Joravsky Show

Did you know? The Reader is nonprofit. The Reader is member supported. You can help keep the Reader free for everyone—and get exclusive rewards—when you become a member. The Reader Revolution membership program is a sustainable way for you to support local, independent media.

Reader senior writer Ben Joravsky riffs on the day’s stories with his celebrated humor, insight, and honesty, and interviews politicians, activists, journalists and other political know-it-alls. Presented by the Chicago Reader, the show is available by 4 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays at chicagoreader.com/joravsky—or wherever you get your podcasts. Don’t miss Oh, What a Week!–the Friday feature in which Ben & producer Dennis (aka, Dr. D.) review the week’s top stories. Also, bonus interviews drop on Saturdays, Sundays and Mondays. 

Chicago Reader podcasts are recorded on Shure microphones. Learn more at Shure.com.

With support from our sponsors

Chicago Reader senior writer Ben Joravsky discusses the day’s stories with his celebrated humor, insight, and honesty on The Ben Joravsky Show.


Hocus-pocus

All the usual TIF lies come out on both sides in the debate for and against the Red Line extension.


State of anxiety

Darren Bailey’s anti-Semitic abortion rhetoric is part of a larger MAGA election strategy. Sad to say, so far it’s worked.


MAGA enablers

Andrew Yang and his third party lead the way for Trump.

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Listen to The Ben Joravsky Show Read More »

Listen to The Ben Joravsky ShowBen Joravskyon September 3, 2022 at 7:02 am

Did you know? The Reader is nonprofit. The Reader is member supported. You can help keep the Reader free for everyone—and get exclusive rewards—when you become a member. The Reader Revolution membership program is a sustainable way for you to support local, independent media.

Reader senior writer Ben Joravsky riffs on the day’s stories with his celebrated humor, insight, and honesty, and interviews politicians, activists, journalists and other political know-it-alls. Presented by the Chicago Reader, the show is available by 4 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays at chicagoreader.com/joravsky—or wherever you get your podcasts. Don’t miss Oh, What a Week!–the Friday feature in which Ben & producer Dennis (aka, Dr. D.) review the week’s top stories. Also, bonus interviews drop on Saturdays, Sundays and Mondays. 

Chicago Reader podcasts are recorded on Shure microphones. Learn more at Shure.com.

With support from our sponsors

Chicago Reader senior writer Ben Joravsky discusses the day’s stories with his celebrated humor, insight, and honesty on The Ben Joravsky Show.


Hocus-pocus

All the usual TIF lies come out on both sides in the debate for and against the Red Line extension.


State of anxiety

Darren Bailey’s anti-Semitic abortion rhetoric is part of a larger MAGA election strategy. Sad to say, so far it’s worked.


MAGA enablers

Andrew Yang and his third party lead the way for Trump.

Read More

Listen to The Ben Joravsky ShowBen Joravskyon September 3, 2022 at 7:02 am Read More »

Two names emerge early as candidates to replace Ted Phillips for Chicago Bears

Two names have emerged internally to takeover for Ted Phillips

News broke on Friday that will have a big impact on the Chicago Bears franchise moving forward. Dan Pompei of The Athletic broke the news that Bears President and CEO Ted Phillips will retire following the 2022 season.

Phillips will step aside in February after 23 years with the franchise and they will usher in a new era in the front office. But now the biggest question surrounding the position is who will take over? And in the article, Pompei offers up two names early on that could be candidates and the search has already begun:

The process of finding a successor has begun. McCaskey, Phillips and Tanesha Wade, senior vice president of diversity, equity and inclusion, have been in discussions with the search firm Nolan Partners.

Potential in-house replacements may include senior vice president of marketing and communications Scott Hagel and senior vice president and legal counsel Cliff Stein. McCaskey said he would not identify possible candidates at this time.

Both Hagel and Stein are in the building already and would be the two lead candidates in terms of internal.

Stein has been with the team since 2002, earning a promotion in 2016. He works under Ted Phillips. Hagel has been with the Bears since 1996 and was promoted to Senior VP back in 2016, reporting directly to Phillips.

Both have been in-house for over 20 years now and have the experience, so it makes sense from that standpoint. But the Bears will also look external to try and lure someone here for the job.

Whoever takes over for Phillips will have big responsibilities, including the Arlington Heights project.

 

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Two names emerge early as candidates to replace Ted Phillips for Chicago Bears Read More »

Baseball quiz: The quizmaster takes you to school

September is back-to-school time, when we answer questions such as “Why don’t we work on Labor Day?” I spent many years as a student and many more years teaching in high school and college before I found my true calling as a quizmaster.

I kind of look at our Saturdays together as a way of teaching and discussing baseball-related topics in a fun way. My goal is for you to learn something, remember someone and maybe win a bet in a bar (and you can thank the quizmaster for the drink).

I love September: The weather becomes more bearable, and my eyes start turning to postseason baseball. Hey, I just heard the school bell. It’s time for you to head to your classes. Have a good semester.

1. GEOGRAPHY 302: Each of these states hosts two MLB teams. Which state’s teams had the most wins by this -season’s All-Star break?

a. Illinois

b. Ohio

c. Pennsylvania

2. GREAT BOOKS 106 (the number of home runs hit by Rick Monday with the Cubs): Here are four great baseball books that will be required for this course: “The Boys of Summer,” “Ball Four,” “The Summer Game” and -“Moneyball.” Match the following four authors with their books:

a. Michael Lewis

b. Jim Bouton

c. Roger Kahn

d. Roger Angell

3. MATH 101: Here are three Hall of Fame pitchers who spent a part of their careers with the White Sox: Early Wynn, Tom Seaver and Steve Carlton. They combined for 940 wins in their careers. Your Math 101 question is: Combined, they had which?

a. More than 101 wins with the White Sox.

b. Fewer than 101 wins with the White Sox.

c. Exactly 101 wins with the White Sox.

4. ANATOMY 202: Each of these MLB players has a body part within their name. Which of them (if any), played for a Chicago team?

a. Tony Armas

b. Bartolo Colon

c. Jim Ray Hart

d. Elroy Face

e. Heine Manush

5. RECESS: Time for a break. Which of these former Chicago players played in the Little League World Series?

a. Todd Frazier

b. Anthony Rizzo

c. Carlton Fisk

d. Lance Lynn

6. GENEALOGY 222: Each of these “juniors” have played in the major leagues. Which of them (if any) had fathers who also played in the bigs?

a. Stephen Souza Jr., who played for the Cubs in 2020.

b. Jackie Bradley Jr., who currently plays for the Blue Jays.

c. Cal Ripken Jr., the great Orioles Hall of Famer.

d. Lance McCullers Jr., who pitches for the Astros.

7. METEOROLOGY: Here are five players who have a meteorological connection in their names. But do any have a major-league Chicago playing history on their r?sum??

a. Chili Davis

b. Storm Davis

c. Chuck Rainey

d. Curt Flood

e. Josh Fogg

8. THEOLOGY CI: My question pertains to the Cardinals of St. Louis, not the Cardinals of Vatican City. Which of the following players played for the Cardinals, Cubs and White Sox?

a. Don Kessinger

b. Bobby Bonds

c. Steve Cishek

d. Edwin Jackson

9. HISTORY 444: No Cubs player has hit for the cycle since Mark Grace on May 9, 1993. The cycle is nothing more than an interesting anomaly that becomes more interesting when the player hits a “natural cycle,” meaning he hits a single, double, triple and home run in order. Here are the nine Cubs who have hit for the cycle. Name the only one who had a natural cycle.

a. Mark Grace

b. Andre Dawson

c. Ivan de Jesus

d. Randy Hundley

e. Billy Williams

f. Lee Walls

g. Roy Smalley

h. Babe Herman

i. Hack Wilson

Looking forward to hearing from you. If you have an opportunity, thank a teacher for her/his work.

ANSWERS

1. The White Sox and Cubs were 81-103. The Guardians and Reds were 80-101. The Phillies and Pirates were 88-97.

2. “The Boys of Summer” was written by Roger Kahn. “Ball Four” was written by Jim Bouton. “The Summer Game” was written by Roger Angell. “Moneyball” was written by Michael Lewis. Extra credit reading: “In Scoring Position,” written by Bob Ryan and Bill Chuck.

3. Early Wynn had 300 wins, 64 for the Sox. Tom Seaver had 311 wins, 33 for the Sox. Steve Carlton had 329 wins, four for the Sox. They totaled 101 wins for the White Sox.

4. Bartolo Colon pitched for the White Sox in 2003 and 2009. None of the rest played for a Chicago team, including either Tony Armas Sr. or Jr. But I hope you caught all four body parts in their names: toe, knee, arm, ass.

5. Todd Frazier played for the 1998 Toms River East American Little League All-Star team. Frazier led the team to the finals, where they faced off against the Far East. In that game, Frazier went 4-for-4 with a home run and picked up the win as the team claimed the title. Lance Lynn was a key part of the 1999 Central Brownsburg Little League team. Lynn’s team came away as the champions of the Central Region but ultimately lost in pool play.

6. Lance McCullers, the elder, is the only one in this group. Cal Ripken’s dad managed the Orioles (and his son) but never played in the majors.

7. Chuck Rainey pitched for the Cubs in 1983 and part of 1984, and Josh Fogg pitched for the White Sox in 2001.

8. They all did. Kessinger played with the Cubs from 1964-75, 1976-77 with the Cardinals and 1977-79 with the White Sox. Bonds (the good one) played with the Cubs in 1981, 1980 with the Cardinals and 1978 with the White Sox. Cishek pitched with the Cubs in 2018-19, 2015 with the Cardinals and 2020 with the White Sox. Edwin Jackson (who has pitched for just about everyone) pitched with the Cubs in 2013-15, 2011 with the Cardinals and 2010-11 with the White Sox.

9. On July 17, 1966, Billy Williams hit for the natural cycle against the Cardinals.

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Chris Mueller key to Fire’s playoff hopes

Chris Mueller didn’t have his best game in a Fire jersey Wednesday at the New England Revolution. After getting stopped on a 22nd-minute penalty kick, Mueller was anonymous before he was subbed out in the 71st minute of what turned out to be a 0-0 tie.

Yet the Fire know their flickering playoff hopes would be dead without Mueller.

“Since the moment Chris arrived, both in the locker room, on the field, in the games, he’s just been a blessing to the team,” defender Jonathan Bornstein said. “I really enjoy playing with the guy. We get along really well off the field. Ever since he’s come into the group, we’ve had another element in the team we didn’t have before.”

A Schaumburg product, Mueller rose to stardom with Orlando City before jumping to Scottish side Hibernian in January. Mueller’s time in Scotland didn’t go well, and after 15 appearances, he was acquired by the Fire in May.

Since then, Mueller has been the Fire’s best attacker, contributing four goals and three assists in 19 games while representing one of sporting director Georg Heitz’s best moves. If not for Mueller, it would be hard to see where the Fire could look for consistent production. Xherdan Shaqiri’s impact has been blunted by his health issues, and attackers Kacper Przybylko and Jairo Torres have made minimal contributions.

Mueller’s pace and skill have been noticeable on the wing, stretching opposing defenses and creating room for Fire attackers to create chances.

Bornstein, who faced Mueller before he shifted to Europe, isn’t surprised by what he’s seen since they became teammates. And Bornstein doesn’t think Mueller is playing with something to prove because his brief time in Scotland was a struggle.

That’s just how Mueller has always played.

“As long as he doesn’t lose that, he’ll have a long and illustrious career and he’ll continue to get better throughout his career,” Bornstein said.

One concern about Mueller is the amount of soccer he’s played this year. Unlike most of his teammates, Mueller didn’t have an offseason and he might be showing signs of tiring.

The heavy workload is something coach Ezra Hendrickson is monitoring. Because if Mueller goes down – or if his productivity dips due to fatigue – the Fire will have few dependable attackers left.

That factor, and Mueller’s performance Wednesday, explained why he was replaced with 20 minutes left in a game that was there for the Fire to win.

“He’s a big part of our team, and we do have to be careful that, playing two seasons, we don’t cause injuries there because we’ve lost a lot of key players now,” Hendrickson said, “and we have to be careful we have enough players to finish the season.”

Beyond Mueller, the Fire attack as a whole has slowed. The Fire (8-13-7, 31 points) haven’t scored since Mueller’s goal in the 49th minute of a 4-1 loss to Philadelphia, and have been blanked for the last 310 minutes of soccer.

Generating something, whether it’s from Mueller or somebody else, is a must for the Fire as they try to prolong their season Saturday at Columbus (9-6-12, 39 points). With six matches left, the Fire are five points out of a playoff spot and can’t afford any more quiet offensive games like the past three.

But if anybody’s going to score, Mueller still seems like a good bet.

“[Mueller] wears his heart on his sleeve,” Hendrickson said. “He’s a guy that’s going to go out and fight for you and put in the effort game-in and game-out.”

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A summer of putting in work must translate for Bulls’ Patrick Williams

Patrick Williams hasn’t exactly spent the summer in the shadows.

If there was a Pro-Am or even a pick-up game with star talent, the Bulls forward was usually calling out, “I got next!”

Which is exactly what he should be doing.

While Year 3 for an NBA player is always crucial, for the 21-year-old former No. 4 overall pick, it’s defining.

That was evident with the moves the team made this offseason after exiting the first round of the playoffs in just five games, and it has been loud and clear with every interview his team and front office have had when asked about the expectations surrounding Williams.

Guard Coby White on Williams: “When he went down [with a wrist injury] it hurt me, it hurt the team, but also playing is probably the best development you can have, being on the court and going through those mistakes. He’ll figure it out. Like I always say, since Day 1 he got here, I believe he can be a star. He’s got every quality you can ask for on and off the basketball court, as a human being and as a basketball player.”

All-Star Zach LaVine on Williams: “Pat’s great, Pat’s going to continue to work on his game and get better and better. He’s been to California, he’s been in Chicago. Pat’s working on his game, but everybody on the team needs to take a step, from the best guy on the team to the 12th man, you need to take a step and upgrade your game. I think that’s how teams get better.”

And vice president of basketball operations Arturas Karnisovas: “With him, when somebody’s asking what he needs to improve, I think his skill set is pretty complete; what he can do athletically not a lot of players can do in our league. I just think the biggest thing for him is experience and confidence. . . . He’s committed. So we’ll see what happens.”

And they will very soon.

Williams, like many of his Bulls teammates, will start migrating back to Chicago after Labor Day for voluntary scrimmages and runs, according to a source.

The team will have its first mandatory workout on Sept. 27, when camp is expected to open up.

What they hope — and need — to see from Williams is a jump.

Not a hop, a full-fledge jump.

The way this roster is currently constructed, it has its veteran starters in DeMar DeRozan, LaVine and Nikola Vucevic. It has All-Star scoring with that same Big Three. It has experience off the bench with new additions in Andre Drummond and Goran Dragic. It has its defensive presence in the backcourt with Lonzo Ball — when healthy — Alex Caruso, and possibly even rookie Dalen Terry.

What it needs, however, to make sure that this Bulls team has playoff staying power beyond one round is Williams. Not “Passive Pat,” who seemed more interested in scoring his nine points and grabbing his five rebounds while letting the adults sit in the front seat and drive the last two seasons.

No, they need the wing stopper, who can put up 18 and nine, while unleashing hell on the opposing team’s best forward on the defensive end.

They need Williams to play like a No. 4 pick, and sooner rather than later.

Vucevic is a free agent after this season, and DeRozan after next season. “Continuity” was the buzzword for this front office going into the offseason, and that was predicated on not only bringing everyone back, but Williams taking a huge leap.

All indications are he played this summer like a guy who has. The problem is we’ve heard this before with Williams. Starting next month, everyone gets to start seeing it.

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High school football: How the Super 25 fared in Week 2

1. Mount Carmel (1-0)

Saturday vs. Phillips at Gately

2. Loyola (1-0)

Saturday vs. United

3. Lincoln-Way East (2-0)

Won 31-16 vs. No. 4 Batavia

4. Batavia (1-1)

Lost 31-16 at No. 3 Lincoln-Way East

5. Bolingbrook (1-0)

Saturday vs. Simeon at Gately

6. Glenbard West (2-0)

Won 42-7 vs. Downers Grove South

7. Warren (2-0)

Won 19-17 at No. 9 Maine South

8. Neuqua Valley (1-1)

Lost 10-7 (OT) vs. Wheaton-Warrenville South

9. Maine South (1-1)

Lost 19-17 vs. No. 7 Warren

10. Prairie Ridge (2-0)

Won 63-28 at Burlington Central

11. Marist (1-1)

Won 49-6 at Richards

12. St. Rita (2-0)

Won 17-12 vs. Brother Rice

13. Naperville North (2-0)

Won 28-13 at No. 16 Glenbard North

14. Prospect (2-0)

Won 52-20 vs. Barrington

15. Lockport (2-0)

Won 44-10 vs. Metea Valley

16. Glenbard North (1-1)

Lost 28-13 vs. No. 13 Naperville North

17. Nazareth (1-1)

Lost 24-17 vs. No. 24 Lemont

18. Cary-Grove (1-1)

Lost 43-39 vs. Crystal Lake South

19. Joliet Catholic (2-0)

Won 23-22 vs. IC Catholic

20. Notre Dame (2-0)

Won 35-14 vs. No. 25 St. Patrick

21. Kankakee (1-1)

Won 42-0 vs. Washington, Ill.

22. Crete-Monee (0-1)

Saturday at Andrean, Ind.

23. Jacobs (2-0)

Won 35-14 vs. Crystal Lake Central

24. Lemont (2-0)

Won 24-17 at No. 17 Nazareth

25. St. Patrick (1-1)

Lost 35-14 at No. 20 Notre Dame

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Ryan Poles revitalizes Chicago Bears roster in this early 2023 mock draftRyan Heckmanon September 3, 2022 at 12:00 pm

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It is never too early for a mock draft, especially if you are a Chicago Bears fan.

No, that wasn’t necessarily a dig at the Bears’ upcoming 2022 season. Sure, this Bears squad might not be destined for a playoff berth. But, the future certainly looks much brighter if you see the entire picture.

First-year general manager Ryan Poles came into a tough situation. Fans have to understand that this first full calendar year is going to be all about building the foundation. The Bears aren’t going to win immediately, but with the assets under his belt, Poles has an opportunity to turn this thing around fairly quickly.

Moves made this past offseason have set the Bears up for a year of learning, growing and ultimately paving the path forward towards long-term success. And, biggest step towards a successful 2023 season is going to be come draft time.

This college football season, Chicago Bears fans will get a taste of what could be theirs come next year in the 2023 NFL Draft.

Poles will have a first-round pick to work with next year. It will be the first year in some time that the Bears have picks in the first, second and third round — not to mention the following three rounds, too.

The only round they’re without a pick, at the moment, is in the seventh round. And, if recent history is any indication, Poles will be extremely busy on Day 3 of the draft in order to add even more talent.

For starters, Bears fans are looking forward to the early rounds with a couple of things in mind. First of all, it’s at the wide receiver position. Next year’s class is absolutely loaded. If this mock draft has any foreshadowing in it whatsoever, the Bears are going to look a whole lot better in a hurry.

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Strong and steady

Modernity and tradition. Relaxation and tension. Chaos and order. Yin and yang—roughly speaking. These are complementary universal forces that can easily lose balance and therefore create trouble. But not at Hyun’s Hapkido and Tae Kwon Do School, a Bucktown martial arts storefront rooted in the same location for over 50 years; an unexpected harmony permeates the air in the school’s children-filled, sun-drenched, and action-packed quarters. That is thanks to Hyun’s owner and founder Grandmaster Kwang Seek Hyun, 77, who manages his business and its culture with a firm yet gentle hand. Anyone who needs some respite from a world saturated with screens and populated by people with bad manners will benefit from the old-school approach promoted by Grandmaster Hyun and his disciples. “In class, I always say that in order for you to become a martial artist, you must first have humility, righteousness, etiquette, wisdom, and sincerity. You need these five qualities to become the perfect martial artist or self-defender,” says Grandmaster Hyun, who values the mental aspects of his training as much as the physical ones. “Without confidence and alertness, there’s no self-defense,” he says. 

That confidence is practiced early on, as soon as Hyun addresses his prospective young students. When Hyun asks a question, he encourages kids to look straight into his eyes, speak loud and clear, and add a “sir” right after their answer. That is his first lesson right there, and it sets the tone for an environment where elders and instructors are thoroughly respected. There’s no place for improper behavior at Hyun’s school; kids who don’t follow the rules are simply not allowed in the classroom. 

Grandmaster Hyun was photographed in this pose for the Reader 40 years ago. Credit: Isa Giallorenzo

Respecting and loving oneself is also highly encouraged: it is actually Hyun’s first rule. “If you can’t love yourself, you can’t follow any of the other rules,” he says. With that kind of assertive posture, it is much easier to command respect and keep the bullies away. Hyun also teaches his students to stay alert and avoid trouble whenever possible: “Once you have confidence, you can see clearly they cannot hurt you, so you can walk away very easily and not feel bad about it. On the other hand, people who are not confident enough want to fight back. For example, if a five-year-old boy bothers you, you simply move away. But if someone your age bothers you, you want to fight back because your confidence level dropped,” Hyun explains. 

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Calm confidence is exactly what Hyun conveys, but that might come naturally for someone who is a tenth-degree black belt in hapkido. According to Hyun, he’s the only one in the world to have achieved that degree. 

Hapkido loosely translates to “the art of coordinated power,” and is a Korean martial art specifically designed for self-defense. Hence Hyun’s school’s motto (as seen on a well-loved sign that hung for years outside the school’s Western Avenue location): “martial art . . . not sport.” In hapkido, a fighter will do whatever he can to subdue his opponent—nothing is out of bounds. Hyun informs me that hapkido “seeks not to overpower an attacker with strength, but with techniques that turn an attacker’s force back on himself.” It includes elements from other martial arts such as kicks and punches from karate, joint-locking techniques like aikido, and throws like the ones used in jiujitsu and judo, making the original mixed martial art. 

Hyun’s Hapkido, Tae Kwon Do, and Self-Defense SchoolNorth side location: 2743 N. Western, 773-252-8300South side location: 3722 W. 79th St., 773-284-1300hyunshapkido.com

“It focuses on the psychology of the street fighter, making it a practical martial art for city dwellers,” Hyun advertises in his brochure. It is also great for self-defense for women, and for police and correction officers, of whom Hyun has trained plenty. 

Hyun at his office door, decorated with a 1980 photo of him mid-fight. Credit: Isa Giallorenzo

Hyun still teaches hapkido to the teens and adults who attend his school (along with other instructors), but children go to a different area to learn Tae Kwon Do with 46-year-old Kenneth Jeffries. Hyun likes to keep the two groups fairly separate to give the adults some rest. Tae Kwon Do means “the art of foot and hand techniques,” and lends itself to a safer practice for the little ones. A no-nonsense kind of person, Jeffries keeps his students in line and busy throughout the class. According to him, besides kicking, blocking, and punching, students also learn respect, courtesy, and self-control.  

Grandmaster Hyun himself started studying hapkido early on, back in Korea when he was 13 years old. At 13, he also met his wife Joanne Hyun, now 77. The Hyuns have two children, one of whom is a law professor. He later went on to study music at the Seoul National University and served in the Republic of Korea Air Force as a self-defense instructor before coming to the States in 1969. 

Hyun was invited here to teach martial arts at Carroll University in Wisconsin, but soon found his way to Chicago: “I’d been working [at Carroll] for about a year, but I really wanted to train the police department in Cook County. So I got a good recommendation letter from the dean, but during my interview with the police department, they said they didn’t have a budget for me. I told them I’d teach for free for a year, and I did. Once they had a budget they hired me, and I trained the Cook County Sheriff’s Police Academy Department for about 15 years. I always say that criminals never get old, but police officers do. So they’d better be in good shape,” Hyun prescribes. 

Hyun proudly shows off his hapkido tenth-degree black belt certificate. Credit: Isa Giallorenzo

In 1971 Hyun opened his first school, in the same location he’s still at. His walls are covered with memorabilia from various honors he’s received from so many years of service. His promotional materials include multiple newspaper and magazine articles he’s been featured in, including two from the Reader in the early 80s. In one of them, reporter Michael Kiefer perfectly defines the object of martial arts: “[It] is not breaking bricks and is not intimidating others. The object is self-confidence and self-control, physical conditioning, and relaxation. The object is to be alert, to be ready without being paranoid, to learn how to take the crap the world has to offer without striking out before you have to.” Or, as Grandmaster Hyun wisely put it: “I avoid dog poop not because I’m afraid of it, but because it stinks.” 

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