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PopCap Has Announced XBLA Version of Plants Vs Zombies

2010-07-19T16:38:00.000-07:00

PopCap Games has announced the release of Plants vs. Zombies for the Xbox Live Arcade. The developer promises to deliver the biggest version of their hit tower defense game, including two new multiplayer modes. The title will launch sometime in the early days of September for 1200 Microsoft Points, that is 15 dollars.

“With a ton of new features and content exclusive to the XBLA version, we’ve pulled out all the stops to both expand and optimize this adaptation for a hard core gaming audience,” said Ed Allard, head of worldwide studios at PopCap. “The two new multiplayer modes allow gamers to work cooperatively to defeat hordes of invading zombies, or go head-to-head in a true ‘Plants vs. Zombies’ challenge.”

This will clearly be the richest version of Plants vs. Zombie in terms of content. It will include seven game modes, among them two multiplayer options: cooperative and versus mode. Another new feature is the ability to share and track friends' progress online by allowing gamers creating a custom home and cruising down the street to see the houses of their friends. The XBLA version of Plants vs. Zombies will also have 12 Xbox 360 Achievements and 21 mini-games, more than in any other version of the title.

The well known Adventure Mode will be there in its entirety, with 50 levels that are meant to introduce newcomers to gameplay elements, while maintaining enough challenge to keep veterans excited. Furthermore, PopCap is planning to release a boxed version of the Xbox 360 version of Plants vs. Zombies that will also include full licenses of Zuma and Peggle. A Plants vs. Zombies Game of the Year edition is also expected this fall for the PC and Mac, containing a zombie figurine. Both will come at the suggested retail price of 20 dollars.

Kinect Will Make the Xbox 360 Attractive for Five More Years

2010-07-19T16:35:00.000-07:00

We were once accustomed to seeing rumors about a next generation console being developed by Sony, Microsoft or Nintendo every couple of months but with the launch of the PlayStation 3 Slim, the push for new motion tracking controllers and the transition to three-dimensional gaming, it seems console makers were telling the truth when boasting that the PS3 and the Xbox 360 would be around for at least ten years.

New statements from a Microsoft executive enhance this idea. Chris Lewis, who is the man in charge of the Xbox 360 in Europe, told Gamesindustry.biz that “I think 2010 will be a very big year for us, it is in many ways for us a mid-lifecycle. What you've seen is with this new sleek design and Kinect for Xbox 360 we've got at least another five years of this generation where we continue to offer great experiences for people.”

Ever since Kinect, the motion tracking system formerly known as Project Natal, was first unveiled, the software giant has made a lot of noise about treating the launch as if it was that of a whole new gaming console. The official unveiling before the E3 trade show, which also presented the first titles that would be using Kinect, was a grand affair with the Cirque de Soleil brought in to visually push the idea that it is a revolutionary technology that would change not only gaming but the world forever.

Sony has maintained that it has a ten-year plan for the PlayStation 3 ever since the home console was outed, and Microsoft appears to be getting ever closer to the same idea. The two companies have not released any numbers but analysts are speculating the Research & Development costs associated with the PS3 and the Xbox 360 were so big that they are not interested in spending the same sums again to create true next-gen consoles and prefer incremental changes to the already existing hardware.

June Xbox 360 Sales Spike Due to Price Discounts on Older Models

2010-07-19T16:31:00.000-07:00

Last week's NPD charts showed a sales spike for the Xbox 360 in the United States. Many attributed this successful month of June for Microsoft’s console to the slim redesign announced during E3. It seems this was a premature assumption, as Michael Pachter, Wedbush Morgan Securities analyst, has revealed that only 40 percent of the 451,700 units that sold during the month of June were represented by the new models of the Xbox 360.

He went on to point out that 35 percent of those sales were the 150 dollar old Arcade model, according to Wired.co.uk. Furthermore, Wal-Mart, a famous US retailer, offered a 50-dollar gift card with every Xbox 360 Arcade purchase, effectively lowering the price of the console to 100 dollars. The rest of the 25 percent of units sold were Pro and Elite models of Microsoft’s console which also had their price lowered by 50 dollars.

This means that the biggest contributor to what was Microsoft’s most successful non-holiday month since the release of Halo 3 was not the redesign of the Xbox 360, but the tremendous price drop for the older models. This is quite an unfortunate piece of news for Microsoft, because it seems that when the old models manage to sell out or when the company decides to end the discounts the adoption rate for the console will get back.

The new Xbox 360 is meant to solve the problems related to the over-heating, including the infamous Red Ring of Death issue. In addition to this, the new model has a wireless card incorporated, removing the necessity to buy the expensive dongle peripheral that Microsoft has put up for sale. It is also Kinect compatible, meaning that the motion controller will not need to be powered separately, like in the cases of the older Xbox 360 versions. There have been rumors of a cheaper slim version of the Arcade SKU that would be priced at 200 dollars, but they have not been confirmed yet.

Nintendo Is Unstoppable In Japan

2010-07-19T16:26:00.000-07:00

Media Create has released the Japanese hardware and software sale charts for the week that lasted from the 5th of July to the 11th of July. Nintendo is a clear winner in the part of the world as well, dominating both in terms of games and consoles sold. Two Nintendo products sit at the top of the lists, Nintendo DSi LL and Wii Party.

In terms of hardware the Nintendo DSi LL, the Japanese version of Nintendo DSi XL, is number one, even if it has registered a decrease in number of units sold in comparison with the week before from 32,661 to 28,916. The Nintendo Wii comes in at a close second place with 24,604 consoles sold, as opposed to the 21,965 it had sold in the seven days before. The PlayStation Portable came down one place to number three with 24,421 units sold, but keeps going strong, approximately maintaining the 24,684 sales figure it manage to achieve before the 5th of July. PlayStation 3 is the most successful next generation console in Japan, keeping to its fourth spot, while the Xbox 360 struggles selling only 5,688 units. The worst selling platform in Japan is the PlayStation Portable Go, with only 1,046 models sold in one week.

Nintendo's Wii Party entered the chart at number one, managing to move no less than 235,000 copies in only one week. Despite the stiff competition, the PlayStation 3 exclusive White Knight Chronicles: Awakening of Light and Darkness also sold a respectable number of discs in that week, that is 176,000. Last week's number one, Inazuma Eleven 3: World Challenge for the Nintendo DS, was not by far as successful in this one, selling only 98,000 as opposed to the staggering 505,161 figure it achieved before. The next two positions in the top ten chart are also Nintendo DS games, that is Harvest Moon, Twin Villages and Taiko Drum Master DS. Super Mario Galaxy 2 is still doing well on number six. Crackdown 2 is at number seven, a kind of a surprise given the Xbox 360's low popularity in Japan. The last three spots in the chart are occupied by Friend Collection and the PlayStation 3 and PSP versions of Winning Eleven 2010, the Japanese name for Pro Evolution Soccer 2010.

Stripping Your World Of Warcraft Character Naked

2009-01-31T20:57:00.000-08:00

Have fond memories of going around in games like Baldur's Gate Dark Alliance or Neverwinter Nights naked, slaying rats or any other low-level creatures? Well, you can do the same thing - or you can just run around naked screaming about a magic missile for an hour or two in Stormwind. Not that I've done that, you know, but anyway!

Getting your World of Warcraft character naked just takes the basic knowledge of the game setup, and a few empty slots in your bag. If you don't have the empty slots, you can sell anything you don't need, or place items in the bank for retrieval later. You could also ask a friend to hold the items for you, if you're in a group, but be careful - you might never see those items again.

Open your backpack or bag (Hotkey B for your backpack, hotkey's F8 - F11 for other bags), and then open your character menu (Hotkey C). Left click once on a piece of your clothing that you wish to remove - pants, shirt, shoes, anything - and move your curser to an empty slot in your bag. Next to your curser should be a smaller image of your item - if not, you need to click again. Just left click the empty slot to place the item in your bag. Do that for every piece of clothing you have on you.

And tah-dah. You're naked. There's really not much to it - unless you want to look good while naked. Then there's something much more to this.

Your attractiveness depends on what race you are, and if you're male or female. Here's a low-down on how attractive your WoW character will be when he or she is actually naked.

Alliance
Night Elves
Hands down, the most attractive race of the Alliance, the Night Elves look great both clothed and naked. There's not too much to say about the naked male Night Elf, but the female has a slightly off body shape, and the ribs protruding not only don't fit with the stomach, but give the torso an awkward look. Still, you have to admit, the Night Elves can really get their dance on.

Humans
The humans aren't too bad looking, as long as you keep their clothes on. Both the female and male are a little on the - how you say, chunky side, and they do not wear flattering underwear. Not very appealing to the eye, but somehow guys who play women and dance naked in Goldshire still get stuff. Hey, we all have to make a living, right?

Dranei
The Dranei, one of the new races that came with the Burning Crusade expansion, are the ugliest Alliance race. No question about it. The men are wide and brutish, and the women - well, their legs are just disgusting. Although, while I have nothing good to say about the men, the women's facial features are rather attractive, in their own, blue way, and their bodies are much better sculpted then the gnomes or dwarves.

Dwarves
The dwarves are short-ish, squat creatures that aren't at all attractive or appealing to the eye. Most male dwarves have long beards which take away from the rest of their face, and the choices for women's facial structure or hair aren't very nice at all.

Gnomes
I have the same complaint about the gnomes as the dwarves - their shorter, though, and even less attractive naked. No one, and trust me, no one, wants to see a naked gnome dance. I'll leave it at that.

Horde
Blood Elves
A beautiful race! The blood elves were the other race to come with the expansion, and they are the most attractive race in the entire game, no questions asked. Slim, sleek bodies framed by a smooth, visually appealing face and surprisingly nice hair styles. Their jump is smooth and fluent, with a graceful landing style, and they look the best naked, by far.

All Other Horde Races
These races aren't something that you want to see naked. The Undead, Orcs, Tauren, and Trolls should never take their clothes off, ever.

PC Games Offer Endless Entertainment

2009-01-31T20:56:00.002-08:00

As a way of relaxation and having loads of fun, pc games have evolved into a real industry. Online or offline, from simple flash games to modern wonders, the pc games have attracted an impressive mass of followers that are ready to devour the next achievement.

Nobody would have imagined 15 years ago that one would be able to interact with thousands and thousands of other people online with the means of an online game. That's what technological evolution has made possible nowadays.

If you were to classify PC games, they would fall into more categories, each with its own distinctive type of playing. Although many of them ultimately need you to defeat the bad guys, the ways to do that are many, varied, and in different environments. You can do that anywhere and anytime, from ancient Rome to epic space battles in the different future.

FIRST PERSON SHOOTERS

They are also commonly called "Shoot 'em up" because of the manner in which you need to approach the game. You have a 1st person view, meaning that you will see the game environment as you would if you were actually there. You are given many different weapons with which you need to kill the bad guys. Although there are many examples of good first person shooters available out there, the Doom and Quake franchises seem to dominate the market.

REAL TIME STRATEGY

In this type of pc game usually you need to build a strong empire with enough fighting force to overcome the enemy. It has 2 aspects, the battle military aspect and the economical one. Usually you need to harvest resources in order to be able to produce different military units capable of running a war. Common examples of this sort of games include Starcraft and the Warcraft series.

RPG

The abbreviation comes from "role playing game." This is a game in which you start on a character that is weak at first and who gains experience as you progress through the game, by battling different monsters. With the help of the experience gained, your character becomes stronger and stronger, able to fight stronger monsters and enemies, and ultimately defeats evil, which is also the purpose of the game.

A relatively recent development of RPGs is the MMORPG (massive multiplayer online RPG), in which thousands of people fight online in a usually immense world in which you can do anything you want: fight monsters, complete quests, fight other players, and of course gain experience all throughout. Although it has not been the first game of this genre, the most acclaimed game of this type is World of Warcraft which has an impressive community worldwide.

There are many other types of games available out there, I just pointed out the most common of them: racing games, sport games, adventure games, action games and many other types of games form an impressive industry that has truly put the pc games in the first line of entertainment over the last decade.

Learn To Make Money Through Game Testing

2009-01-31T20:56:00.001-08:00

Gaming is a multi trillion dollar industry in the wide world today. Hundreds of people doing on developing a single game, and millions of people purchase it all over the world. The industry is at such high stakes that the income generated by a single bestselling title could be more than the gross public product of a third world country. In such a circumstance, there are many ways that gaming can be used to your own advantage. Even if you know zilch about developing games, you can gain a very impressive sum by testing them, and even make it your fulltime profession.

Game developer companies want to be perfectly sure that their products are perfect before they release them into the market. Since such high stakes are riding on the heads of each title, this is a very obvious thing to want. That is why there is a need for game testers. These people do not requirement to visit the company certainly; game testing can be taken up as a freelance career from home. Once the game testers are recruited, they will get the games by post, which they have you play and review. The review has to be drafted on a form which comes with the game CD. Generally there is a timeframe of about fifteen days to review the game and to submit its report.

In order to leave no stone unturned with their precious games, game developers are playing very high to those who do the game testing for them. An proficient video game tester could get anywhere between $80 and $90 per hour. Novices would start out at less, but they would soon reach this level of earning. The pay that game testers get is just about the highest that some freelance worker gets. The money paid comes in the post next about two weeks of the submission of the game's review.

And to top it all, the game testers get to keep the game CDs. These game CDs become profitable at that point of time, because they are the beta versions of games that are yet to be released in the market. The last game CD could be a little dissimilar, thus it would incorporate all the suggested changes and be better off for graphics and voice.

Although, game testing is not just games all the way. You might have to visit the game developing companies occasionally if they are not able to deliver the titles, or you may even have to visit them and describe your opinion of the game. This happens in most cases, specially in great graphic games which are very difficult to describe on a written form. Also, the game tester has to have a scrupulous approach to the game, and check out all flaw and make a report of it.

So, if you think you are up to all these responsibilities, and if you generally love games, then game testing could be the best profession for you to be in. The money's good, and you work by doing almost nothing more than playing games. You can get some good tips and ideas about how to enter the world of game testing.

Get The Game You Like With Terra Game

2009-01-31T20:53:00.000-08:00

The way computer games were perceived until a few years ago has drastically changed in recent times. If you just have a look around, you will come to know what I mean. The games of today are not simply the slash-and-dash, jump-and-bump type, but there is a plethora of games that really tickle the human senses. There are games with graphics that could make your eyes pop out no one would deny the fact that some games are masterpieces in pixels. Then there are sound effects and soundtracks, which could give the Grammies some competition. And overall, the games have become extremely intelligent. The intelligence is in the puzzle-solving and the overall game-play.

With such fabulous games, no wonder there is great competition in the gaming world. In my point of view, each game being designed today is nothing short of excellent. If you are to buy a game, it indeed becomes very difficult as to which one should you choose.

Perhaps this problem can be solved to some extent if you would be able to choose games according to your preferred genre, or better still, if you could play a trial and check them out. If you could play one level of a game, you would be in a better position to decide whether you like it enough to purchase it or not. You might be getting a lot of mail about trial versions of games to play. Some mail sites have them on their list. But that's simple one game at a time. How about a whole site that gives you a truckload of games to try out and choose from?

Sounds interesting, doesn't it? Game download websites offer just that. They have a huge list of games to choose from, and you can download and play most of the games on trial. The trial could be for a few levels or for a couple of hours, as the case might be. Or, you could also play an online version of the game against other players from across the world and then how the game actually feels to play. These are all facilities that the malls and game stores do not provide you with.

If you ask me to name a game download site offhand, I would most probably recommend terra game. I have tried it out myself, and it works quite well with both amateur and hardcore players. The thing is, terra game has a huge collection of games to suit people of all ages. There are simple puzzles for children, action and adventure games for teenagers, role playing and simulation games for adults and even classic games like Mahjongg for the older generation. It is quite difficult to have a game suiting everyone's tastes, but I think terra game manages just that.

It does make better sense to go for such game download sites than to visit the huge stores. You can actually sit at home and select your pick, rather than run from one counter to another pushing and shoving the eager crowd to get what you like.

The Rundown On A Video Game Secret

2009-01-31T20:52:00.000-08:00

Gone are the days when video games were just sources of fun, where players would be satisfied playing games and completing them from start to finish, marveling at the graphics on the path. This is the age of experimentation. The average video game player is becoming more and more daring, and is looking out to try out new things with his or her gaming consoles. This is no longer the age of cheats and walkthroughs; this is the age of tinkering with the gaming consoles themselves and making games more adventurous to play.

Several video game secret has been leaked out onto the Internet slowly but steadily about the popular video game consoles such as the Xbox, PlayStation and GameCube. Even most twelve-year old players nowadays know that they can copy their console games onto CDs and DVDs so that they can be played on the personal computer, or simply distributed to friends in return for other games. Howsoever, there are many more developed things that players do. They adapt their gaming consoles in such a way that it becomes possible for them to play their games on their projection televisions. This does need some knowledge and expertise, but the whole setup can be done very cheaply, within about $200.

Using emulator resources is not precisely a secret, but it can be counted as one because very few people decide about it. By making use of an emulator resource, you can play video console games directly on the personal computer. This is becoming a very popular trend among people who have consoles but are more skilful with their traditional personal computers.

Knowing a video game secret and then implementing it on the console has become a commonplace thing to do for gamers today. It does increase the fun they get out of the game and also increase the replay value for the games. And also, it satisfies their urge of experimentation. People are even writing e-books about them and putting them on the Internet for other gamers to know about them.

Howsoever, implementing a video game secret wrongly could damage the console irreversibly. Thus, it frequently does require a person who knows about consoles to put them to use. For example, it is easy to attune a console to a projection TV, but if it is done wrongly, there could be damage to either the console or the TV. For this reason why, it is needful to exercise some warning when applying such changes. Some players also try out funky things like making their controllers glow and things like that, which could damage the console controllers. In short, though you may know a video game secret, you must think twice before you exactly go ahead and apply it.

World of Warcraft Gold Making Guide

2009-01-31T20:50:00.000-08:00

This Gold Guide will teach you a great way to make gold within World of Warcraft. Follow the instructions and very soon your pockets will be overflowing with gold.

Prior to earning vast amounts of gold in game, you will need to do the following:

1) Create an auction house toon. You should create a new toon that is strictly for managing and selling your auction items. My auction house toon is named "Zauction". With that name, it's much easier to mail things to it because its name starts with "z". After you create your auction house toon, make sure you add that toon to the friends list of your other toons.

2) (skip this part if you are on a PVP server) Create another auction house toon on the opposing faction's side. If you are a Horde player, you will need to setup an Alliance toon and park it next to the auction house in Ironforge, Stormwind, or Darnassus. Same goes if you are an Alliance player.

3) (skip this part if you are on a PVP server) Create a new toon and move it to the neutral auction house in Winterspring, Gadzetzan, or Booty Bay. Do this for Alliance and Horde.

4) Do a web search for this site: Allakhazam. Go to that site and bookmark it. When you search for items at that website, you will notice that you get a "median AH price" with every search result. This price will be your gauge for determining the resale value of your items. Become familiar with using this website before you start selling items on the Auction House.

5) Analyze your toon. What are its natural strengths? For example, a hunter's strongest asset is nature resistance. Any hunter can build a pet with the highest level of nature resistance and then turn on his Aspect of Nature. That will give his pet around 240 nature resist. What does this mean? It means that a hunter can kill mobs that do nature damage better than any other player class in game. Each player class has its own strength. You must determine what your strengths are before you can start earning large amounts of gold.

You will need approx. 1,000 gold before you can start earning larger sums. Hopefully you followed the first five steps and you have now determined what your toon's greatest strengths are.

As a hunter, my greatest strength is nature resist. I can build a pet with the highest level of nature resist and when I activate Aspect of Nature, my pet will have approx. 240 NR. This makes my hunter very strong against any mobs that do nature damage.

For a level 70 hunter, the easiest mob to kill that drops a high priced item is an Air Elemental. You will find these primarily in Nagrand. You can turn on Aspect of Nature, let your pet tank, and kill three or four Air Elementals before you need to rest and/or heal your pet.

If you aren't a hunter, you will need to find mobs that you can kill with ease. Are you strong against undead? Then you should be farming undead for netherweave cloth. Are you strong against casters? Then you should be farming caster-type mobs that drop valuable loot.

The lesson in this tutorial mirrors real life: in order to be successful, you must focus on your strengths.

What exactly does that mean? It means if you are weak against fire damage, do not waste your time farming Fire Elementals or any other mob that does fire damage. Instead, focus on mobs that you can kill with ease and then sell the items they drop on the auction house.

For gatherers:

If you are a flower-picker (herbalist) or a miner, you will find that materials found in areas with mob levels of 50-60 can be quite profitable to farm. The reason why flowers and ore found in those areas are more valuable is because the bulk of players are not playing at that character level (50-60). That means less farmers. And that makes those items hard to find on the auction house.

Now that you have a basic understanding of how to earn gold within game by actually working for it (aka farming), get to work! Farm items, mail them to your auction house toon, and then sell them on the AH. Save your gold until you have acquired approx. 1,000 gold cash.

After you have acquired a 1,000 gold cash, give yourself a nice pat on the back before continuing.

What do you think is the most profitable item to sell on the auction house? Motes? Primals? Cloth? Herbs? If you answered with any of those, you are wrong.

Here are the two, best selling items on the AH: BOEs (bind-on-equip items) and recipes!

In order to make large sums of gold in World of Warcraft, you need to sell BOEs and recipes.

The reason why BOEs and recipes are the best selling items is because they are in limited supply. They must drop from a mob in order to be found. Not only are they the best selling items, they also make it far easier for you to get rich.

How many gaming hours did it take to farm your 1,000 gold? 10 hours? 20 hours? Twenty hours is probably an accurate number to farm 1,000 gold in loot. (By the way, I commend you for completing this necessary task.)

By comparison, how long do you think it would take to farm a BOE item or recipe? Since the drop rate on both is an extremely low percentage, let's just say it takes 100 gaming hours for every BOE that drops. And that is probably a modest estimate considering that I have seen only THREE epic BOEs drop in my entire World of Warcraft gaming experience.

But wait! Who said you have to actually farm BOEs and recipes to get them? That would be a precious waste of your game time! Wouldn't you rather be running Karazhan or Gruul's lair instead of killing mobs and hoping a BOE item or a recipe drops? Of course you would!

How do you acquire BOEs and recipes? You buy them on the trade channel or the AH.

A typical scenario might go like this: Another player is selling an epic BOE sword on the trade channel for 500 gold. Before you send him a whisper, you go to Allakhazam and do a search for the sword. You discover the sword is indeed worth 500g. Apparently this player has done his homework and is asking the correct price for the sword. Send him a whisper and say, "I'll buy it, but it's only worth 100 gold to me". Most likely he will proceed to promptly cuss you out. But 8 times out of 10 he is desperate for cash (otherwise why is he selling the item on the trade channel?) and he will take your offer. This person will complain and try to get you to pay more, but your answer is always NO. If he doesn't sell it to you, fine. If he does, then you turn around and put the sword on the AH with a 24-hour auction and a buyout of 500 gold or more.

I made at least 20,000 gold by using this exact strategy, and I had fun doing it! You will quickly develop a reputation of being a "reseller". This is both good and bad. The bad is that people will get angry with you, mostly because they are envious of your ability to barter and make gold. The good part is that very soon players will come to you with BOEs and recipes because they know you have the cash to purchase whatever you want.

You should limit your purchase price to 20% to 30% of the "median AH price" found on the Allakhazam website. This leaves a safe margin in case you need to resell something at a much lower price than the listed median price.

You now have knowledge very few wow players possess. But do you have the skills to implement? Only you can answer that.

Video Game Tournaments

2009-01-30T07:55:00.000-08:00

Looking to shove your skills in another gamers face? Well, we here at gathering of gamers believe it is your right, no, Your Duty to do so. Look for the hottest video game tournaments in your area or take your skills on the road. Gathering of Gamers can become the most effective and powerful tool in helping you find or host a successful video game tournament. This section is completely driven by you, the video game community. Here you will be given the opportunity to post upcoming video game tournaments or browse what’s happening in your neck of the world. Whether you’re setting up a LAN party in your basement or a national tournament, the Gathering of Gamers gives you the tools and the audience you’ll need to make it happen.

For those of you gamers with a thirst of victory that burns deep within your loins or loinettes simply click on the corresponding state or country in which you live in. You’ll instantly be gazing into a sea of possibilities. Don’t stop eating up the competition until that fierce thirst is quenched with the souls of your not so worthy adversaries.

For you gamers who take pleasure in hosting the greatest video game tournaments this planet has ever laid their mortal eyes on, here’s the tool urban legends are made of! Post your tournament here, giving details on prizes, type of competition, size of clans, location, times, etc.

Remember this, the video game tournament section of the gathering of gamers can be as big as your imagination will allow. The number of tournaments is solely based upon your willingness to participate. You are limitless. The world is now your playground.

Unlocked Apple Iphone 16gb

2009-01-30T07:52:00.000-08:00

Unlocked Apple Iphone 16gb

Apple's iPhone is a revolutionary new cell phone that allows users to make calls by simply pointing at a name or number. iPhone syncs all of your contacts from your PC, Mac® or Internet service such as Yahoo!, so that you always have your full list of up-to-date contacts with you. In addition, you can easily construct a favorites list for your most frequently made calls, and easily merge calls together to create conference calls.

iPhone’s pioneering Visual Voicemail, an industry first, lets users look at a listing of their voicemails, decide which messages to listen to, then go directly to those messages without listening to the prior messages. Just like email, iPhone’s Visual Voicemail enables users to immediately randomly access those messages that interest them most.

iPhone includes an SMS application with a full QWERTY soft keyboard to easily send and receive SMS messages in multiple sessions. When users need to type, iPhone presents them with an elegant touch keyboard which is predictive to prevent and correct mistakes, making it much easier and more efficient to use than the small plastic keyboards on many smartphones. iPhone also includes a calendar application that allows calendars to be automatically synced with your PC or Mac.

iPhone features a 2 megapixel camera and a photo management application that is far beyond anything on a phone today. Users can browse their photo library, which can be easily synced from their PC or Mac, with just a flick of a finger and easily choose a photo for their wallpaper or to include in an email.

The iPhone is a quad-band GSM cell phone which also features EDGE and Wi-Fi wireless technologies for data networking. Apple has chosen Cingular, the best and most popular carrier in the US with over 58 million subscribers, to be Apple’s exclusive carrier partner for iPhone in the US. unlocked iphone 16gb

iPhone is a widescreen iPod with touch controls that lets music lovers “touch” their music by easily scrolling through entire lists of songs, artists, albums and playlists with just a flick of a finger. Album artwork is stunningly presented on iPhone’s large and vibrant display.

iPhone also features Cover Flow, Apple’s amazing way to browse your music library by album cover artwork, for the first time on an iPod. When navigating your music library on iPhone, you are automatically switched into Cover Flow by simply rotating iPhone into its landscape position.

Photoshop Creative Magazine February 2009

2009-01-27T03:32:00.000-08:00

Photoshop Creative Magazine February 2009
91 pages | English | PDF | 14.46 mb

Download @
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or
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3D Creative Magazine, Issue 041, January 2009

2009-01-27T03:30:00.000-08:00

3D Creative Magazine, Issue 041, January 2009
3D Creative | 2009-01-01 | 110 pages | PDF | 21,4 MB

Download @
http://rapidshare.com/files/189870618/041.rar
or
http://rapidshare.com/files/182317336/3DCreative_Issue_041.rar
or
http://depositfiles.com/files/n8as3q84t

Animation Magazine - February 2009

2009-01-27T03:29:00.000-08:00

Animation Magazine
PDF | English | 84 Pages | 9.90 MB

Download @
http://rapidshare.com/files/183807121/AMFeb09.rar
or
http://rapidshare.com/files/189065379/Animation_Magazine__2009_February_.rar

Silicon Chip - January 2009

2009-01-27T03:18:00.000-08:00

Silicon Chip - January 2009
PDF | English | 78 pages | 5,11 MB

Download @
http://rapidshare.com/files/189626491/Silicon_Chip_-_January_2009__Malestrom_.rar
or
http://uploadbox.com/files/c46e03ff39

Candy Magazine

2009-01-27T03:15:00.001-08:00

Candy Magazine
English | PDF | Issue 03 | 22 MB | RS+ES
Art Graphics & Photography Magazine !

CANDY magazine showcase Irish creativity alongside international equivalents to a worldwide audience.

CandyCollective was formed by Richard Seabrooke with the ambition of showcasing exceptional creativity, wherever it may be, through interesting formats and memorable projects.

Candy Issue 3 - The TechnoLogic Issue

Download @
http://rapidshare.com/files/184130809/Candy_issue3.pdf
or
http://w19.easy-share.com/1903296459.html

Spaces (October 2008)

2009-01-27T03:15:00.000-08:00

Spaces (October 2008)
PDF | English | 132 pages | 42,4 MB

Download @
http://rapidshare.com/files/189590235/Spaces_11_2008.pdf.html

Popular Photography - February 2009

2009-01-27T03:02:00.000-08:00

Popular Photography - February 2009
Pages: 124 | English | PDF | 28.8 mb

Download @
http://rapidshare.com/files/184048570/AF261-PP-0209.rar
or
http://uploading.com/files/V8ODR04P/PP-0209.rar.html
or
http://w19.easy-share.com/1903268772.html
or:
http://depositfiles.com/files/b9if3d5x

Play Street Fighter II by using YouTube

2009-01-22T11:29:00.000-08:00

Fun or Weird: Game Characters

2009-01-22T09:53:00.000-08:00

The Halo 4 Olympics.

Tom Clancy's Guitar Band

Little Big Ninja Turtle

ZOMG!! PES 2010

I'M no Idiot BoX

For Christ's sake

I LiKe Lara Croft in Pink

Gears Of GaY

The Xbox Car

2009-01-22T09:49:00.000-08:00

Perfect Shades

2009-01-22T09:36:00.000-08:00

JDK designers created custom faceplates to allow individual expression around the Xbox 360 brand. JDK's experience in designing snowboard graphics for Burton, for example, gave it an understanding of how to best employ graphics on a three-dimensional object.

Some of the Xbox 360 development team

Get an Xbox HD DVD player for $49.99

2009-01-22T09:13:00.000-08:00

Bundled with full seasons of Battlestar Galactica and Heroes, it's like getting the player for free.

Now, hear me out. No, you haven't traveled back in time to 2007, when HD DVD was still a viable format. And, no, I haven't lost the last of my marbles. Here's the skinny: Frys.com has the Microsoft Xbox 360 HD DVD Player for $49.99, plus around 8 bucks for shipping.

Why on earth would you want this thing? For starters, it comes with Battlestar Galactica Season 1 and Heroes Season 1. That's about 35 hours' worth of mighty good viewin' right there.

It also comes with King Kong. I mention that for people who like movies about giant monkeys and the women who love them. I'm not one of those people, but to each their own.

More perks: The player upscales regular DVDs, adds an extra USB port to your Xbox, and comes with a very slick media-center remote.

Yes, I know: It's a dead format. But there are around 400 HD DVD movies and TV shows floating around out there, many of them selling dirt-cheap on eBay, Craigslist, etc. So, if you like movies and TV shows and own an Xbox 360, this is a nice little impulse buy.

Okay, you can commence telling me I'm insane.

XNA News from Microsoft

2008-10-20T09:53:00.000-07:00

As part of its publicity campaign for the November 19 release, Microsoft has confirmed that the XNA Games service would launch integrating the Xbox Live Experience. There will be more information available and options related to getting games, plus an improved visual experience for the Xbox 360 user.

XNA Games will be getting its very own channel on the new Xbox Live Experience interface, separate from that of Xbox Live Arcade. Kathleen Sanders, XNA community manager at Microsoft, told Larry Hryb (also known as Major Nelson), that the approval process for XNA produced games would be far quicker than that for XBLA games.

Kathleen Sanders stated that “We're a little bit nervous, because we don't know what people are going to create -- we're leaving it all in their hands. What we've provided them is just a tool, a way to get out there to all the millions of Xbox Live subscribers”.

Microsoft is not establishing any benchmark at this point in time for the new service and says that it all depends on how interested Xbox Live fans are in creating games and how much creativity they can showcase.

In order to create and then distribute a game via Xbox Live, you will need to become a premium member of the XNA Creators Club. This means that you have to give Microsoft either 49 dollars for a four month membership or 99 $ for a yearly membership. The idea is that you can make those sums up by choosing to bill those interested in the game you have created 200, 400 or 800 Microsoft Points and you will receive 70% of the price paid by them. The bad news is that you cannot choose to release an XNA game as free, so the program might not attract a lot of attention from players.

Emotional Ad Video : Global Warming

2008-10-11T05:11:00.000-07:00

The concept behind this video is to bring awareness about Global Warming. This is very emotional..

Get Ready for some Tarzan Action

2008-10-11T03:58:00.001-07:00

One of the most classic heroes and many people’s favorite, Tarzan, is set to make a comeback in the world of games. After being cast in arcade or children oriented titles, the famous man from the jungle is set to have a proper game made after his adventures. European developer Twelve has recently announced that it has struck a deal with Edgar Rice Burroughs, Inc. to commence development of a new title that will feature Tarzan as the main character, and which will be made for the all the major platforms, like the PC, Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 or Nintendo Wii.

"Developing Tarzan, one of the most enduringly popular characters of all time, for the video game market, will be Twelve's biggest challenge to date," said Giuseppe Crugliano, founder and managing director of Twelve. "We are extremely happy that our vision of Tarzan for this millennium met with the same enthusiasm from Edgar Rice Burroughs, Inc. It will be a huge but inspiring task, a timeless character, timeless ideals, further enhanced by the sheer quality of next-gen technology. Tarzan has been a hero for generations, irrespective of age, and we can't wait to get to work on what we're sure will be truly captivating gameplay."

President James J. Sullos Jr. spoke for Edgar Rice Burroughs, Inc., and he was very excited about bringing back the classic character. "Over the years, Tarzan has represented human survival against all odds, rugged individualism, and a protector of the natural habitat – he is the First Conservationist. His physical prowess and complex personality lends itself to a myriad of possibilities in developing high powered next-gen console games, and we are pleased that Twelve shares our enthusiasm."

And don't think that this game won't be serious, as the developers have announced that they will be employing the Gamebryo engine which was also used by Bethesda for their hit title The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion, or for their upcoming Fallout 3 game.

Burnout Paradise Features Barrack Obama Ads

2008-10-11T03:55:00.000-07:00

In-game ads are a pretty interesting thing. It sure is weird to see the ads you would find on the street or on billboards across the city in your game while you race or shoot another character. It certainly is one of the biggest less exploited areas of advertising, which is why big companies like Activision sign contracts to display ads in their games, or why big industry companies like Google enter this market. But the end results are sometimes a bit funny.

GamePolitics reports that a gamer, while playing the racing title Burnout: Paradise, saw a billboard advertising for the United States Presidential Candidate Barrack Obama. The gamer in question, who goes by the nickname Dragunov765, posted pictures of this billboard on his blog and expressed his opinion about them. Don't go thinking that he's just a kid who knows how to Photoshop an image, because he definitely has credibility and the pictures look real enough.

"Here's the photos I took while playing Burnout: Paradise on the Xbox 360. I don't know how often they rotate the in-game advertising, but I imagine they are still up. I gotta give Obama credit for covering all the bases. I also think this is an interesting endorsement for adults as gamers (or maybe he's planting the seeds for a re-election bid in 4 years)." he wrote on his blog.

The billboard, which expresses the early voting initiatives, references Obama's campaign site and states that it was paid for by "Obama for America." While it does seem interesting he would approach such a delicate market, the presidential candidate has always been close with the younger voting audience and with such attempts he can only get an even bigger boost in popularity.

Electronic Arts, the publisher of this game and the company that holds the advertisement rights, has yet to offer an official statement about this particular ad.

Guide to Wii Accessories

2008-10-06T06:17:00.000-07:00

The fun console has gotten funnier. Some of the accessories are out of this world and you have to wonder what the heck were those guys thinking when they came up with some of the ideas; maybe is too much tequila or maybe the console is forcing people to think out the box. In any case, the add-ons from for the Wii are by far the funniest ones. Have a look!

Wii Soft Sport Kit from dreamGear
Wii Soft Sport Kit from dreamGear
Baseball, Tennis and Golf can now be played with the feeling of a real bat, racket and club. Includes a bonus Wii cooling fan to keep your system cool and prevent your console from overheating.

FrontMan from Nyko
The FrontMan is compatible with Guitar Hero III and works with your existing Wii remote. Designed for the inner rocks star in everyone, the FrontMan features a unique hard rock styling with a custom body shape, with your choice of two rocking color schemes, interchangeable pick guards and durable design.

Silicone Skin Case for Controller & Nunchuk from BargainCell
Keep your Nintendo Wii controller & nunchuk safe and protected with a high quality silicone skin case.

Airplane Navigator from CTA Digital
Navigate through the friendly skies with this Airplane Controller Stand. Its flexible and diverse design allows you to play your airplane games as if you were right in the cockpit. The angle of the sand swivels from front to back and side to side, allowing you to maneuver with the slightest of ease. Both the nunchuk and the controller are placed on both sides of the stand.

Boxing Gloves from CTA Digital
The Boxer Gloves for Wii are perfect for gamers that want to add a touch of reality to their gaming experience. With these gloves, you get the actual feel and work out of being inside of the ring. The gloves have a pouch on the backside of the hand that houses two-foam cushions that are designed specifically for the controllers to rest in; this way you can punch away like a real boxer and not have to worry about clenching bulky objects.

Cooking Mother Kit from CTA Digital
This dual set of controller holders is a virtual chef's dream. One holder is shaped in the mold of a frying pan, while the other is a combination of a spatula, a knife and tongs, so you can fry, flip, cut and stab any one of your favorite dishes.

Dance Mat from CTA Digital
Compatible with Wii dancing games such as Dance Dance Revolution: Hottest Party, you can experience those dancing games through this genuine interactive feel

Mobile Home Theater Video Eyewear from CTA Digital
With this eyewear, your video footage is projected on a 50 inch virtual screen at a 2 meter distance. Line controller that you plug into the left side of the frame; it houses a 1,000mAh Lithium-ion batter that lasts up to 8 hours, which is more than enough time to out last any movie that you may be viewing. You can power the glasses on/off and adjust the volume with this. Also included is a set of earbuds that you plug into the frame and it enables you to listen to audio of the video that is being shown

Camouflage Blue WraptorSkinz from Matrix Productions
WraptorSkinz provide thin and tough scratch protection for your Nintendo Wii Controllers & Nunchucks without adding bulk.

Fighting Stick from Hori
This is basically an arcade style stick for Nintendo Wii that acts as a Wii remote extension. Anyone can guess what is designed to do, right?

The WiiHelm
This is the ultimate tool for lazy dudes or girls for that matter. Unlike all the overweight gamers that feel this is the break they were waiting for, I think this will make a lovely gadget for physically impaired gamers that are entitled to some fun just like the rest of us. We know it was meant as an April Fools Day prank, but the idea is not half bad.

Vertical Stand and Cradle
Your Wii console will never be happier. This 7-in-1 Pro Gamer's Kit includes a vertical stand and remote cradle to secure your Wii console, two Remotes and two Nunchuks; two remote faceplates with matching straps, so you can customize and protect each of you Wii remotes in style; one remote grip to ensure total comfort during those long-fought classic gaming sessions; a Wii game case to protect and organize all your games, memory cards & memory card cases.

This pretty much covers it. There is a bunch of other stuff like different nunchuks and remotes, in various colors and a trillion adaptors for fishing rods, guns and pool cue thingies. Wii may not be leading in graphics, but they sure do hold the throne when it comes to sheer and pure entertainment.

A SHORT LOVE STORY IN STOP MOTION

2008-10-04T01:28:00.000-07:00

A couple of pencil-outlined birds escape from a little girl´s drawing, leading us through the life she dreams of. Created by Carlos Lascano.

A SHORT LOVE STORY IN STOP MOTION from Carlos Lascano on Vimeo.

Gallery of Hot Girl Gamer

2008-10-03T11:06:00.000-07:00

Girls with Guns

Girls with Their (X)boxes

Girls and Guitar Hero

Girls with Old School Games

[more pics [at Destructoid(partial nudity) and GamerGirls]

Spore Cheats - Tips & Tricks

2008-10-03T10:29:00.000-07:00

You need to press the following buttons on your keyboard to open the Spore console screen while playing the game: press Ctrl + Shift + C at the same time. Once you’ve done that, the console screen allows you to type the below cheat codes, after which you hit the Enter or Esc button or the red X to close the console.

The code is followed by its effect on the game.

* Type: capturePlanetGIF - To capture a spinning GIF picture of the planet you are on, which is then saved to the AnimatedAvatars directory on your computer.

* Type: setConsequenceTrait (trait) - Where you see the text "(trait)" instead you type out one of the following traits that you want: cell_carnivore, cell_herbivore, cell_omnivore, creature_aggressive, creature_social, creature_mixed, tribe_aggressive, tribe_social, tribe_mixed, civ_military, civ_economic, civ_religious, space_bard, space_ecologist, space_zealot, space_diplomat, space_scientist, space_trader, space_shaman, space_warrior, space_wanderer, or space_knight

* Type: help (command) -This explains the actions and usages of a command. Where you see the text "(command)" instead you type the cheat code you want explained.

* Type: addDNA - To increase how much DNA you have to spend by 150 points.

* Type: moreMoney - This increases your money in the Civilization or Space stages.

* Type: help - This lists all cheats and debug commands.

* Type: killallhints - To remove all hints from the game.

* Type: refillMotives - Where needed, this replenishes your health and other motives.

* Type: SetTime (hour, minute) - This sets the time of day at the Avatar’s position, and optionally can give you a speed multiplier. Where you see the text "(hour, minute)" instead you type the time of day you want.

* Type: freeCam - To toggle free camera mode.

* Type: unlockSuperWeapons - This unlocks all superweapons for your Civilization type.

Florida Man ordered to Pay $415,900 for Selling Pirated Video Game Systems

2008-10-03T10:00:00.002-07:00

Kifah Maswadi, 24, of Oakland, Fla., was sentenced today to 15 months in prison for selling pirated video game systems.

In addition to the prison sentence, Maswadi was ordered to pay $415,900 in restitution for criminal copyright infringement by U.S. District Judge T. S. Ellis III in the Eastern District of Virginia.

Maswadi previously pleaded guilty on June 3, 2008, to a one-count indictment for criminal copyright infringement, after being indicted on Jan. 24, 2008. Maswadi admitted to selling “Power Player” handheld game consoles that were pre-loaded with at least 76 pirated copies of copyright protected video games, most of which were owned by Nintendo and Nintendo’s licensees. Maswadi also admitted that from 2006 through 2007, he sold the game consoles and pirated games to customers in the Eastern District of Virginia and elsewhere through several Web sites he operated. Records showed that Maswadi’s sales of the pirated game units exceeded $390,000.

First Core i7-Ready Triple-Channel DDR3 Kits

2008-10-03T09:53:00.000-07:00

After the latest news of Corsair planning to release its first triple-channel DDR3 memory kits, it looks like A-Data stepped ahead of the game in being the first to announce the Core i7-ready triple-channel DDR3 kits, with almost 5-6 weeks before Intel is expected to officially unveil its next-generation desktop processors. Despite the fact that no specific release date has been made public, it’s a good thing to know that even memory manufacturers are getting ready for Intel's next-generation desktop platform.

Just recently A-Data has introduced a new cooling solution, specifically designed to meet the requirements of the company's performance X series of memory modules. However, with the latest development, A-Data has made one a step further towards its goal of claiming the supremacy in the high-end computer memory market. The announcement of the very first Core i7-ready triple-channel DDR3 kits also comes to confirm that we are getting close to the official unveiling of Intel's Nehalem-based Core i7 processors and its next-generation X58 chipset.

A-Data Vitesta DDR3 triple-channel memory modules

Regarding the specific technical details, the upcoming Vitesta-series kits will be available in both 3GB and 6GB capacities working at 1333MHz and 1600MHz. According to the company, the new Vitesta DDR3-1333MHz and DDR3-1600MHz memory modules have been designed to deliver impressive performance rates, working at latencies of 7-7-7-20 and 8-8-8-24, respectively. They will be offered with a lifetime warranty, and are said to become available later this quarter, although, as noted before, there's no specific date available for the time being.

As mentioned above, A-Data's upcoming Vitesta memory kits have been designed for the next-generation X58-enabled motherboards, which means that they will probably end up in one of those new Core i7 gaming rigs that should become available soon.

Guide to Xbox 360 Accessories

2008-10-02T11:34:00.000-07:00

You've just bought your first (or second, for that matter) Xbox and, after unpacking it, you feel like there is something missing and you cannot quite figure it out. Maybe it's just a cable or maybe is the second controller. On the other hand, it might not go with your girlfriend's last dress and you could use a custom plate to appease her mind whenever you tend more to the needs of Marcus Fenix than to hers. I've put together a list of almost every accessory i could think of.

Hard Drive (20 GB)
Save your games, Xbox LIVE gamer profile, game demos, and custom soundtracks from your own music collection. The Xbox 360 Hard Drive also lets you play an array of original Xbox games and even comes preloaded with an Xbox LIVE Arcade game, music, and videos.

Hard Drive (120 GB)
The Xbox 360 120GB Hard Drive is the best option for media enthusiasts who game on Xbox 360. It is the largest storage option for available. The Hard Drive includes a data transfer kit to easily migrate all of your saved data from your 20GB HDD to your 120GB HDD. It comes preloaded with great HD game demos, videos, and an assortment of Xbox LIVE Arcade game trials.

HD DVD Player
HD DVD Player is the most affordable way to jump into the next generation of DVD technology, along with the flexibility to enter when you are ready. Just plug Xbox 360 HD DVD Player into Xbox 360 and enjoy the ultimate home theater experience, with more clarity and detail than broadcast, cable or satellite HD.

HDMI Cable
Experience digital high definition of your video and audio all in one cable and enjoy movies and games at up to 1080p resolution with superior audio via the Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound output. Utilize the Optical/RCA Audio adapter for enhanced sound in non-HDMI supported stereo systems.

Xbox 360 Component HD AV Cable
Showcase stunning Xbox 360 high-definition graphics with the component connection on your HDTV. Play high-quality audio with the included stereo connection, or use the optical audio port for digital sound. The eight-foot shielded cable also includes the more traditional composite connections for use with standard-definition televisions.

Wireless Controller (various colors)
Xbox 360 Wireless Controller lets you enjoy a 30-foot range and up to 40 hours of life on the two included AA batteries-and when they run low, you're given ample warning so you can connect a Play & Charge Kit for uninterrupted play. Plug the Xbox 360 Headset into the controller for full two-way voice communication: a wireless first. The device comes in the following colors: black, blue and pink.

Limited Edition Halo 3 Wireless Controller Brute
Really get into the game with this Limited Edition Halo 3 Wireless Controller.

Limited Edition Halo 3 Wireless Controller Spartan
The same like the one above, but with a different theme.

Wireless Headset
Designed specifically to work seamlessly on your Xbox 360, this hands-free, wire-free headset employs the same technology as the award-winning Xbox 360 Wireless Controller. Pair up both accessories for superior performance, freedom and comfort, and you can even use up to four Wireless Controllers and Wireless Headsets simultaneously.

Limited Edition Halo 3 Wireless Headset
For the Halo fanatic who is looking for an undeterred and immersive gaming experience, the ergonomically designed wireless headset sports a Halo 3 logo with a visor gold power button, all in Master Chief green.

Messenger Kit
Chatting with friends and family on Xbox LIVE and Windows-based PCs is easy using the Xbox 360 Messenger Kit. This device easily connects to any Xbox 360 controller and provides easy to use chat capabilities, while maintaining gameplay functionality in one easy-to-hold device. The Messenger Kit includes a Chatpad and Xbox 360 Headset.

Play & Charge Kit (also comes in Black)
Complete with a charging cable and rechargeable battery pack, the Xbox 360 Play and Charge Kit is all you need to juice up your Xbox 360 Wireless Controller-even in the midst of battle.

Quick Charge Kit
Quickly recharge up to two battery packs at the same time. Your Xbox 360 Wireless Controller needs a new battery? Swap in a fresh pack from the Quick Charge Kit. Multiple wireless controllers? Pick up a couple of extras, so you'll always be ready with a fully charged battery that's ready to go.

Xbox 360 Wireless Racing Wheel
Featuring sleek design and cutting edge technology, like dual Rumble motors and powerful Force Feedback, the Xbox 360 Wireless Racing Wheel is a masterpiece of form and function.

Wireless Gaming Receiver for Windows
The Xbox 360 Wireless Gaming Receiver for Windows lets you take your quality, wireless gaming experiences that you enjoy on your console and experience them on your Windows gaming platform.

Xbox 360 Universal Media Remote
Enter a new world of digital entertainment with the touch of a single button. Play DVD movies and music, plus control your TV and your Media Center PC with one controller. The centralized, glowing Xbox Guide Button gives you quick access to your digital movies, music, and games library, and backlit buttons make the keypad easy to see in a darkened home theater.

Faceplates
Unlike any console before, Xbox 360 puts gamers at the center and gives them the freedom to personalize their gaming experience, however they see fit. Xbox 360 Faces make it easy and fun to change the face of the Xbox 360 console. Change your Faces whenever you like to match your personality, your mood, or your wild side. So flip it, switch it, or leave it be, and express your unique sense of style.

You have to keep in mind that there are tons of other accessories on the market produced by third party companies. Not all of them are interesting, but we've gathered a few of the most prominent ones:

Harmony Advanced Universal Remote from Logitech
Touch just one button to power on everything you need to play a game. Navigate Xbox menus with X, Y, A and B buttons. And of course, for the rest of the family, you can add up to 11 other components.

Controller Cradles from Intec
New 360 Controller Cradles secure your controller in a vertical position, while displaying it and keeping it safe from bumps and scratches.

Vantage USB Microphone from Logitech
The Logitech Vantage USB Microphone enhances your favorite Xbox 360 singing games with high-quality audio input.

The latest console from Microsoft has a long life ahead of it, and I'm sure we're going to do another piece in a couple of years with crazier and more interesting accessories.

Source: Google, Softpedia, xboxforum

The Orange Box Codes and Unlockables (Xbox 360)

2008-10-02T11:19:00.000-07:00

The Orange Box delivers five innovative action games from Valve - creators of the blockbuster Half Life franchise, in one box. The Orange Box includes Half Life 2: Episode Two, Portal and Team Fortress 2 in addition to full versions of award-winning Half Life 2 and Half Life 2: Episode One for an engrossing first-person action experience.

The title includes Half-Life 2: Episode Two, the second installment in Valve's episodic trilogy, which advances the award-winning story, leading the player to new locations outside of City 17. Portal is a pioneering type of single player action game that rewrites the rules for how players approach and manipulate their environment - much like how Half-Life 2's Gravity Gun reinvented the way gamers interact with objects in the game.

Codes

(Half-Life 2) Restore Health
Enter the code while playing Half Life 2. No specific requirements other than the game. It can be entered at any time on any level.

Up Up Down Down Left Right Left Right B Button A Button - Restore Health By 25 Points

Unlockables

Achievements
Complete each achievement to get the allotted gamerscore.

"Radiation Levels Detected" (5) - Get through the toxic tunnel under City 17 in Half-Life 2.

Acid Reflex (5) - Kill an acid antlion worker.

Anchor's Aweigh! (5) - Get the airboat.

Aperture Science (40) - Earn gold medals on all Portal challenges.

Atomizer (10) - Disintegrate 15 soldiers by throwing them into a Combine ball field.

Attica! (5) - Destroy the gunship in the hospital attic.

Barnacle Bowling (5) - Kill five barnacles with one barrel.

Basic Science (10) - Earn bronze medals on all Portal challenges.

Blast from the Past (10) - Find the HEV Suit Charger faceplate in Eli's scrapyard.

Bone Breaker (5) - Kill 30 enemies with thrown physics objects.

Bug Hunt (10) - Use the antlions to kill 50 enemies.

Cache Checker (10) - Find every radar cache in chapter Under The Radar.

Camera Shy (5) - Detach security cameras from the walls.

Car Crusher (5) - Use the cars to squash 15 antlions in Episode One.

Citizen Escort (15) - Don't let any citizens die when escorting them to the escape train.

Conservationist (5) - Kill five enemies with the same energy ball.

Containment (5) - Contain the Citadel core.

Counter-Sniper (5) - Kill all of the snipers in City 17.

Cupcake (10) - Beat two Portal advanced maps.

Deadly Harvest (5) - Kill an enemy by planting a hopper mine.

Dynasty (10) - Win 20 games.

Elevator Action (10) - Survive long enough to get on the parking garage elevator.

Escape From City 17 (20) - Escape City 17 with Alyx.

Fight the Power (10) - Shut down the supression device by disabling its generators.

Flamethrower (5) - Set five enemies on fire in 30 seconds.

Flushed (5) - Kill an enemy with a toilet.

Follow Freeman (10) - Gain command of a squad of rebels in the uprising.

Fratricide (5) - Do whatever it takes to survive.

Friendly Fire (5) - Knock down a turret with another turret.

Fruitcake (20) - Beat four Portal advanced maps.

Get Some Grub (20) - Squish every antlion grub in Episode Two.

Giant Killer (10) - Survive the rooftop strider battle in the ruins of City 17.

Gordon Propelled Rocket (5) - Unlock the rocket launcher lambda cache in chapter Under The Radar.

Grave Robber (5) - Steal a Zombine's grenade.

Grey Matter (5) - Get 25 headshots as a Sniper.

Hack Attack! (5) - Kill five enemies with a Manhack.

Hard to Kill (10) - Get five kills in a row without dying.

Hardcore (15) - Accumulate 1000 total kills.

Head of the Class (5) - Play a complete round with every class.

Heartbreaker (10) - Complete Portal.

Heavy Weapons (5) - Get the airboat's mounted gun.

Hit and Run (5) - Run over 20 enemies with the car in Episode Two.

Hot PotatOwned (10) - Kill a Combine soldier with his own grenade.

Impenetrable Defense (10) - Successfully defend Dustbowl without giving up a capture.

Impossible Defense (30) - Successfully defend Gravel Pit without giving up a capture.

Into the Breach (5) - Help Griggs and Sheckley hold off the antlion invasion inside the mine shaft.

Keep Off the Sand! (20) - Cross the antlion beach in chapter Sandtraps without touching the sand.

Lab Rat (5) - Acquire the fully powered Aperture Science Handheld Portal Device.

Lambda Locator (15) - Find all lambda caches in Half-Life 2.

Lightning Offense (10) - Win Well in 5 minutes or less.

Little Rocket Man (30) - Send the garden gnome into space.

Live Bait (10) - Help Alyx snipe 30 enemies in Episode One.

Long Jump (5) - Jump 300 feet.

Malcontent (5) - Escape the apartment block raid.

Master of Disguise (15) - Trick an opposing medic into healing you.

Neighborhood Watch (35) - Save all buildings outside the missile silo from destruction.

Nemesis (5) - Get five revenge kills.

One Man Army (5) - Destroy six gunships in Half-Life 2.

OSHA Violation (5) - Kill 3 enemies using the crane.

Pacifist (10) - Contain the Citadel core without killing any stalkers.

Partygoer (5) - Make the correct party escort submission position decision.

Payback (10) - Kill a Hunter with its own flechettes.

Pedal to the Metal (5) - Beat DOG in a race to the White Forest base.

Pinata Party (5) - Find and break every web cache in Episode Two.

Plaza Defender (10) - Survive the generator plaza standoff in chapter Anticitizen One.

Powerhouse Offense (5) - Win 2Fort with a shutout.

Puttin' On a Clinic (15) - Defeat the chopper in Episode Two without any misses.

Relentless Offense (20) - Win Hydro without giving up a capture.

Revenge! (10) - Destroy the hunter-chopper in Half-Life 2.

Rocket Science (20) - Earn silver medals on all Portal challenges.

Targetted Advertising (5) - Pin a soldier to the billboard in chapter Highway 17.

Team Doctor (5) - Accumulate 25000 heal points as a Medic.

Terminal Velocity (5) - Fall 30,000 feet.

The One Free Bullet (40) - Beat Episode One firing exactly one bullet. Grenade, crowbar, rocket, and
Gravgun kills are okay!

Think Fast! (10) - Kill an Elite Soldier with his own energy ball.

Trusty Hardware (5) - Get the crowbar.

Turret (5) - Accumulate 10 turret kills with a single turret.

Two Points (2) - Use DOG's ball to make a basket in Eli's scrapyard.

Vanilla Crazy Cake (30) - Beat all six Portal advanced maps.

Vorticough (13) - Discover the hidden singing vortigaunt cave in chapter Water Hazard.

Warden Freeman (10) - Survive the second turret standoff in Nova Prospekt.

Watch Your Head! (5) - Make it to the bottom of the Citadel's main elevator shaft in one piece.

What cat? (5) - Break the mini-teleporter in Kleiner's lab.

With Friends Like these... (10) - Play in a game with seven or more players from your friends list.

World Traveler (5) - Play a complete game on every map.

Zero-Point Energy (5) - Get the Gravity Gun in Black Mesa East.

Zombie Chopper (25) - Play through Ravenholm using only the Gravity Gun.

Zombie-que (5) - Use flares to light 15 zombies on fire.

Some gameplay footage from this long-awaited Half Life bundle:

Screenshots From Orange Box:

CheatBook October 2008 Released: Download Now

2008-10-02T10:58:00.000-07:00

Cheatbook Database is a Cheat-Code Tracker with Hints, Tips, Tricks for several popular PC Action and Adventure Games.

CheatBook (10/2008) - Issue October 2008 - provides details on 670 PC Games, offers 171 Walkthroughs for PC and 124 Console Cheats are represented in this new version from Strategy Games, Adventure Games to Action Games. This Database represents all genres and focuses on recent releases.

Games are listed alphabetically in the left-hand window. When you highlight a game, the relevant cheat is displayed in the right-hand window, with convenient buttons that let you print the selection or save any changes you've made.If you need help with the latest and greatest games, CheatBook should be a big help.

If you have installed the CheatBook-DataBase 2001 v4.0 or the CheatBook-DataBase 2002 or the CheatBook-DataBase 2003/ CheatBook-DataBase 2004 or the CheatBook-DataBase 2005 or the CheatBook-DataBase 2006 or the CheatBook-DataBase 2007 or the new version CheatBook-DataBase 2008 you will be able to update your DataBase directly.

DOWNLOAD LOCATIONS

Size: 3.45 MB

Or Manually Download through Softpedia Click Here

Save a dollar a day for the next Xbox 720, PS4

2008-10-01T11:59:00.000-07:00

The Xbox 720: (2011)

At a keynote session during this year's GC Developer Conference, taking place in Leipzig, Germany, Crytek president and CEO Cevat Yerli revealed his belief that the new next generation of consoles from Microsoft and Sony will hit the market in 3-4 years' time.

"The PlayStation 4 and Xbox '720' will arrive in 2011 or 2012, we think," said Yerli. "But this is just our estimate - we don't know, and even if Microsoft and Sony told us, I couldn't say because it would be under NDA.

"But we think in three to four years' time, although there are good reasons why it should be 2010 already...but we'll see."

However recently Microsoft has confirmed that yes, the Xbox 360’s successor is already being worked on. According to Microsoft EMEA (European, Middle East, and Africa) vice president Chris Lewis:

“The consumer won’t let you rest on your laurels, the developers certainly won’t let us. So that’s happening right now.

You’ll see more on a new Xbox over time…certainly we’re not talking about the next version yet. So give us a chance to catch a breath, will you?”

Xbox 720 specs:

1. Chip to be replaced by the first Larrabee version (Intel)
2. Advanced Vector Extensions for Intel's 32nm process chips [codename 'Sandy Bridge']
3. HDMI output as well as WiFi
4. DirectX 11 and Apple's Open CL API
5. To be compatible with the Xbox 360 game line up
6. Hard Disk variants 60GB, 120GB, and 200GB
7. Available at $299, $399, and $499

The PS4: (2010-2011)

Sources claim Sony is planning to make PS4 available sooner than Xbox 720. Sony perhaps felt that it got its fingers too badly burned by letting Xbox 360 beat it to market last time and won't want to give Microsoft the same opportunity again. a report indicating that Sony is currently designing the specs for the next generation console. The source also state that Sony will try to beat Microsoft to the punch next generation.

Pics: How the PS4 might look

According to the source, a Japanese news agency, PC Watch Impress (Google Translated link), Sony Computer Entertainment is querying some ideas with the third party developers in regards to the design of the PS4. The news report also indicate that the PS4 will be twice as powerful as the PS3.

Currently, by conventional computing standards the PS3 is the most powerful gaming console out on the market, capable of performing 2.0 teraFLOPS (trillion floating point operation per second). If that power was doubled, the PS4 would be capable of performing at an incredible 4.0 teraFLOPS.

Sony has already shunk its Cell processor from 65nm to 45nm. I wonder if PS4 might go 25nm.

PS4 specs: (Possibly rumor)

1. IBM Fusion processor
2. 4 x 7.0Ghz processors
3. 16 SPEs(1500mhz)
4. DirectX 11
5. ATI R800 GPU supporting UHDTV(7680 x 4320 resolution)
6. UDI port
7..........so on [to be updated]

All I have to say now is no matter what the technology, It is going to be the BEST! The Best! And you can spare none of them. atleast not me. Both Opponents will have its own ups and downs. Like Halo 4 will be exclusively reserved for Xbox 720.

I say you just need not worry because a dollar a day can fetch you both Xbox 720 and the PS4...
.......So, start Saving.

Goodbye RRoD welcome Jasper : Xbox360

2008-10-01T02:23:00.000-07:00

The persisting Red Ring of Death (RRoD) hardware failures have been bothering Microsoft lately and they had to go through large console replacements. Those chips were based on 90nm process while the new Jasper chips will be 65nm process built. The new Jasper boards features the 65nm (nanometers) GPU and CPU chips. The result is an Xbox 360 that uses less power and runs cooler and quieter. This will overcome the heating issue that the previous Xbox 360 consoles with 90nm process chipsets had. Hopefully these will mean an end to the RRoD.

At the 360 drives website, an online database of Xbox 360 consoles with DVD drive specifications, a user calling himself 'condorman' has listed details about his console carrying Jasper chipset and manufactured on 23 September 2008.

Not all 360 consoles will have the new piece of hardware.

If you are about to purchase a new Xbox 360, the best way is to see if it will have the new 65nm Jasper chipset is by the manufacturing date. As long as it has a MFR as early as 2008-08-06, Lot 8031 and up, and Team CSON, then you are likely to have the new piece of hardware inside.

The new Jasper boards features the 65nm (nanometers) GPU and CPU chips. The result is an Xbox 360 that uses less power and runs cooler and quieter. Hopefully these will mean an end to the RROD.

Launch a Presidential campaign of your own : The Political Machine 2008 Game Review

2008-10-01T01:53:00.000-07:00

For PC Only

The latest addition from Stardock gets you on the political side. The Political Machine 2008 is the virtual simulation of the presidential election.

Players start by selecting from a slew of notable politicians including Mitt Romney, Hillary Clinton, and Dick Cheney. Players can also try out historic candidates like John F. Kennedy or just create their own from scratch The gameplay consists of sending your chosen candidate around the US giving speeches, raising campaign funds, and running ads. Raising your poll numbers is as easy as checking the issues most valued in a state and hammering that message hard. The stats of your character (experience, stamina, etc.), the operatives you hire (Smear Merchant, Spin Doctor, etc.), and the consistency of your message hardly seem to matter.

The Political Machine 2008 has one deep flaw: it needs to be played by someone who either has a good understanding of how Presidential elections work in the United States or by someone who is interested in learning about them. I sincerely hope that the game developed by Stardock gets into the hands of people interested in politics .

You should know that you just can't win it in this game. You need to watch out for the actual political leanings of the state where you campaign, know the strengths, easily seen in the attributes, and the weaknesses of your candidate, watch the way the public feeling regarding each political issue develops as the campaign goes on. You also need to be careful in picking a running mate and have all the right answers when you appear on television. The game is by no means a complete simulation of the political aspect of choosing a President, but it does a very good job in presenting some of the intricacies involved. The only thing is that it asks is a bit of time and patience. It's not a game for the casual player, but, as stated above, a game for those interested in politics.

Political Machine 2008 Express Edition is a free demo for The Political Machine 2008.
Download it now!

Screenshots:

Inside McCain's Brain #2: Cindy U Suck

2008-09-30T13:58:00.000-07:00

Very Funny. I could not stop sharing on my Gaming blog.

Inside McCain's Brain #3: The First Debate with Obama

2008-09-30T13:51:00.000-07:00

Games your computer plays while you're asleep

2008-09-30T13:13:00.000-07:00

An Awesome Video

Angry Gamer

2008-09-30T12:18:00.000-07:00

Watch this Asian guy go crazy when he loses

Ha Ha nice work! That piece of shit is already a junkyard

Post your Comments please:

PSP-3000 Arriving on October 16

2008-09-30T11:56:00.000-07:00

Sony is certainly moving fast when it comes to new product releases. They are now saying that the new PSP-3000, a hardware update for the gaming handheld from Sony, is set to be launched on the Japanese market as soon as October 16, as part of a bundle and as a standalone product.

The new version of the console features several significant changes from the previous incarnations of the PlayStation Portable. The most important change is set to be made to the screen. Advances in LCD technology since the handheld was launched mean that the new screen will have visibility significantly improved in direct sunlight, with better contrast and with better color representation.

Another improvement is the fact that the device now has a built in microphone, which means that it can act as a recorder in a pinch while also allowing communication between users. Sony says that the battery of the device will also be improved, while also warning users that the new screen is much more power hungry than the last one, which means that battery life might be actually a bit reduced as compared to previous versions.

The new model of the PlayStation Portable will initially only be available as part of a so called Value Pack, which will feature a 4 GB memory stick and other goodies. A standalone deal will be offered shortly after launch.

The North American release is also said to be scheduled for October but Sony has not said exactly when it plans to roll out the new console. No European date has been given.

Sony Japan is also saying that it plans to release a new gaming Bluetooth wireless headset on October 3. The initial release in Japan will be followed by a worldwide availability a few months after that. The new headset is set to be a revolution for gamers. It will hang over each ear and it will have power for 8 hours before it will need a recharge. Noise canceling technology is integrated and there's a new High Quality mode, which offers on screen indicators showing the current connection status, the battery charge level, the speaker volume and the mute status on screen.

MMO's Coming to PlayStation Portable

2008-09-30T11:50:00.000-07:00

The PlayStation Portable is not in the best position in the world right now. Sales are going down, even in Japan, where
the platform has been on top of the hardware chart this year, and Sony has acknowledged that the gaming handheld is not supported by independent developers. But it's clear that the company has not given up on the game, with the new variant, the PSP-3000, being close to launch.

And Sony Online Entertainment, which is now part of Sony Computer Entertainment, is thinking of bringing the most addictive type of games, the MMO, to the PSP. John Smedley, who is the head of SOE, said that this is a definite possibility. Here is what he revealed, “I think PSP is something that we're definitely looking at; 34 million worldwide really opens your eyes, and they're all connected”. He went on to provide some context, stating that “we've kind of got our heads up looking around the world within Sony Computer Entertainment, we're really starting to see a big push for PSP. We think it's a world-class device; in the future, we see full MMOs that are designed for the PSP”.

The first step would be to add some offline elements that are linked to the MMOs Sony is publishing. You could train a new pet on the PlayStation Portable or you could play a solo adventure which is designed to increase the skills of your character. There's also an option of porting card trading games tied to MMOs to the PSP.

If this first step is successful, then Sony should be thinking about creating fully fledged MMOs, like a version of Everquest, for the handheld. Sony is already planning to bring The Agency and Free Realms on the PlayStation 3 and they would also be prime candidates for the PSP.

Forum

2008-09-30T11:17:00.000-07:00

This Post in no way provide any relation with the content of my blog.

This Section is only used for link promotional purposes:

Hi, this is Suraj you can submit your comments here with the url of your blog.
All backlinks accepted.
All you have to do is put a link back to my blog gamefb.blogspot.com
I will check myself for links in your blogs. All comments are moderated.
When I see my link I shall publish your comments.

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About Me

2008-09-30T06:50:00.000-07:00

Hi, I’m Suraj Boro (IN) and I'm an avid Gamer.
I'm friendly, lovable and fun loving guy.
I cuttently own Xbox 360 (i don't subscribe for Xbox live)

To contact me, please email crasheit@rocketmail.com

I'm also available at:

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+ 4 Other Social Network sites......Soon to add...

Please cast your vote here -------------------->>>>>>>

Digg gets financing of $28.7 million

2008-09-30T03:59:00.000-07:00

Digg Inc., an Internet startup specializing in rating news stories, is making a little news of its own with a $28.7 million round of financing. The investment should squelch rumors of a sale to Google or Microsoft.

"That's part of the message. We want to be independent," said Jay Adelson, Digg chief executive. "We have only completed about 15 percent of all the ideas that we have. I don't think anyone could offer us a better deal than us going alone."

The money provides Digg with the means to pursue an international expansion and hiring that is supposed to double its work force to 150 employees by the end of 2009. Digg also plans to move into larger digs in San Francisco and promote its brand more aggressively.

Highland Capital Partners and three previous Digg investors — Greylock Partners, Omidyar Network and SVB Capital — are providing the latest infusion. Digg has raised $40 million since Kevin Rose started the service four years ago.

— Source venturacountystar

Sexy Game Characters come to Life

2008-09-29T22:41:00.000-07:00

Wow, I've lived to see every gamer's fantasy turn into reality ... Watch the gorgeous feminine characters from Dead or Alive, Final Fantasy, Mortal Kombat come into life.

Command & Conquer 3: Deluxe Edition Announced

2008-09-29T21:48:00.000-07:00

Command & Conquer 3: Tiberium Wars was one of the biggest RTS (Real Time Strategy) games of 2007. It won numerous awards and was one of the most highly anticipated titles for the PC. It brought back the Tiberium universe, one that is so unique in the history of gaming. This time with fresh and
revamped units, it won over new and old strategy fans. Its expansion, Kane's Wrath, was launched at the beginning of this year and gained critical acclaim for developing to great extent the complex story line of the franchise. As a token of respect to the titles, and to make some quick money, Electronic Arts decided to launch a Special Edition which consists in a bundle of the two games.

This edition will be available for the low price of 39.99 dollars, which, for such great games, is a real deal. Together, these games take you from the beginning of the C&C saga up to the third Tiberium war in which the two classic factions, GDI (Global Defense Initiative) and Nod, battle against themselves and later face up against the Scrin, a superior race of aliens, which come to invade the Earth. In total, over 45 missions will be playable by the customer, amounting to over 100 hours of gameplay. As always, the live action cut scenes will be present, with actors such as Natasha Henstridge or Josh Holloway and, of course, Joe Kucan as the trademark character of the franchise, Kane.

As a special feature, the bundle will also have over 60 multi player maps included. With the choice of three unique sides, each of them with their advantages and disadvantages, the multi player experience will be very rich.

All in all, it’s a pretty nice thing from EA, as people who don't really like strategy titles, or haven't had the chance to purchase these games will now have a real bargain on their hands.

With the 45nm PS3 likely to go Slim, Not Cheap!

2008-09-29T10:58:00.000-07:00

A report from Japanese website, Nikkan Kogyo, (translated) that Toshiba will begin mass production of the 45nm version of the Cell processor for PlayStation 3 in 2009.

The 45nm chip will reduce production costs for Sony, who is currently experiencing heavy losses.
It will use approximately 40 percent less power and will be 34 percent smaller than the current 65nm version, meaning lower power consumption with reduced heat.

In this theory, it means that Sony would no longer need the bulky PS3 chassis and could release a slimline version of the console. Consumers, however, will no doubt be more interested to see a cheaper version instead, although with the high losses in their 65nm version Sony may well decide to pocket the extra cash.

Source : Gizmond, Hexus

Gizmondo Reviews it:

"Sony and Toshiba announced that they had successfully shrunk the 65nm cell down to 45nm earlier this year, and now thanks to Japan's Nikkan Kogyo, we now have a date for mass production: 2009. At a 40% reduction in power consumption, the shrunken Cell will generate less heat, which would help the PS3 to lose some of its piano-black bulk in a slim version. Cheaper production costs also means more $$ for Sony (or price drops for us). This could also lead to wider adoption of Cell technology in HD upscaling, which Toshiba is already doing in their SRT-enabled TVs and DVD players (but with their own custom chip)."

Main Source [Nikkan Kogyo (Translated)]

Xbox 360 Slim is Coming

2008-09-29T09:24:00.000-07:00

Just as Sony released its PlayStation 2 with a much cooler slim version. Even Microsoft plans to get attention with its Xbox 360 Slim. It will take advantage of Microsoft’s smaller processors by building the CPU and GPU on the same chip.

According to TG Daily, the hardware redesign will come in 2009, which could put Microsoft on track to tackle Sony’s much-rumored slim PS3

But now prior to the recent hype about the Xbox 360 Slim speculations. Microsoft India has sent a statement

Official Statement from Microsoft India about the Xbox 360 Slim:

"We would not like to comment on any market speculation or rumor. In India we have the Xbox 360 Core and the Xbox 360 Pro console currently available in the market. There are exciting new game titles like Gears of War 2, Fable 2 and Fall Out 3 in the pipeline for the holiday season along with special promotion and festival offers."

With all the rumors it sounds too good to be true.
Can we expect it before Christmas?

According to games site Split-Screen Microsoft’s executives have let slip it’ll get an official unveiling in December, although it won’t be available until the new year.

Does Microsoft really need another Xbox Slim??

Pussycat Dolls will be performing at the launch of Xbox Sounds

2008-09-29T08:21:00.000-07:00

The Pussycat Dolls, Nicole, Ashley, Jessica, Melody and Kimberly, are Grammy-nominated pop superstars who exploded on the music scene in the summer of 2005 with their worldwide #1 hit "Don't Cha." will be performing in the event which is the first of its kind entitled Xbox Sounds, which will see music artists performing throughout the summer at iconic Australian locations exclusively for Xbox.

Xbox Sounds will take place between October 2008 and April 2009 and is set to energise Australian music fans this summer. Tickets to each event will be free, offered through competitions and promotions in the lead-up to each performance.

"The Xbox Sounds series is going to be huge", said David McLean, Regional Director, Entertainment Devices Division. "We've lined up some brilliant artists to perform at the events. With the worlds of music and gaming becoming increasingly connected, Xbox is in an ideal position to work in partnership with Universal Music and Tourism Australia to secure some of our country's most amazing landmarks as unforgettable backdrops for these events."

More information on the Xbox Sounds events will be made available in the coming months as new and exciting acts are announced and the truly amazing Australian locations are revealed.

For more details on how to win tickets to the event please go to www.xbox.com.au

WipEout Edition - Download soundtrack for WipEout:HD

2008-09-28T10:24:00.000-07:00

WipEout is a series that not only played great, but had a kickass soundtrack that fans of electronic music adored. And if you weren't a fan of electronic music back then, it made you one.

WipEout:HD continues this legacy of great licensed electronic music, but also allows for users to put in their own custom soundtrack into the game. So it makes perfect sense that our third project, "G.A.M.E. 3.0", is dedicated to this game.

http://www.zshare.net/download/19400657ce399190/
http://d01.megashares.com/?d01=ad82036
http://www.zshare.net/download/19396082f98ec7c2/
http://files.filefront.com/GAME+30+W.../fileinfo.html
http://www.megaupload.com/fr/?d=SHILNLQV

Winner : The Next Wii Clone

2008-09-28T09:07:00.000-07:00

After the success of Ninento Wii, first there was a cloned Wii from China called Vii. Now, just a week before there is another cloned Wii coming out from Taiwan, and this time they call it simply as - “Winner”.

A similiar feature of the console with Wii is it’s Wireless Controller which is used as a handheld pointing device which can detect acceleration and orientation in three dimensions via the built-in G-sensor.

The specs of Winner is as below:

Processors:
• 32-bit CPU
• GPU

Memory:
• SDRAM 16 Mbytes
• NOR Flash 64Mbits
Ports and peripheral capabilities:
• Up to four Winner Remote controllers(connected wirelessly via Bluetooth)
• SD memory card slot(1)
• USB 2.0 ports(1)
• Multi-output port for component, composite or S-Video

Storage:
• Expanded storage via SD card memory (up to 4GB)
• NAND Flash 32Mbytes

Video:
• 480p (PAL/NTSC), 480i(NTSC)or576i(PAL/SECAM),standard 4:3
• AV multi-output port

Audio:
• ControllerBuilt-in speaker

Fake or Real? Next Nintendo DS: Camera, Music Playback

2008-09-28T08:41:00.000-07:00

Over at neogaf forums sources claims that we can expect next version of NDS with the following features included

According to the artcle:

Nintendo DS Next model
- (digital) Camera included
- music playback function
- Wireless connection function power up
- larger screen
- to be released this year in Japan
- under 20000 yen
- new types of games by using the camera
- get/exchange data from Wii and SD card (SD card slot included?)

Is it true?

Image Sources

Metal Slug to go High Definition

2008-09-28T07:48:00.000-07:00

SNK Playmore revealed in a recent interview that the company is looking into releasing an HD version of Metal Slug.

"In order to meet our fans demands for an HD version of Metal Slug, we're considering bringing this series to the new generation of consoles in a similar way to KOF XII," said the SNK rep.

"We look forward to announcing this someday soon."

Metal Slug 7 which is their latest installment in the MSseries for the Nintendo DS, is expected to see a North American release on November 18 of this year.

Screenshots :

No Doubt, Metal Slug 7 will be a Nintendo DS exclusive ever.

17 Console Games that Ruled the World

2008-09-28T03:40:00.000-07:00

Believe it or not, video games have been around for six decades. And as technology has improved, so have the games. Some milestones:

1. Tennis for Two, 1958. Created in a lab by a nuclear physicist, and played on an oscilloscope, Tennis for Two is considered by many to be the first video game.

2. Spacewar, 1962. Developed by MIT computer programmers, Spacewar proved so popular on college campuses it was turned into the first stand-alone arcade game by Nolan Bushnell a decade later.

3. Pong, 1972. Based on his success with Spacewar, Nolan Bushnell forged ahead with a simpler arcade game called Pong, which was inspired by a home video game called Ping Pong. Countless knockoffs ensued, and the video game industry was born.

4. Space Invaders, 1978. The Japanese import was so popular, it pushed video games out of arcades and into pizzerias and grocery stores.

5. Pac-Man, 1980. Originally titled Puck-Man, the Puck was changed to Pac for obvious reasons, and millions of quarters later Pac-Man reigns as the most successful arcade game of all time.

6. Ultima, 1980. Dungeons and Dragons comes to video games in this role-playing game written by a Texas teen that defined the genre for decades to come, including one of the first massively multiplayer online role-playing games (MMORPG), Ultima Online in 1997.

7. Donkey Kong, 1981. The birth of two video game legends: Mario, referred to as 'jumpman,' and Nintendo.

8. Super Mario Bros., 1986. As a pack-in game in the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), Super Mario Bros. moved millions of systems in the United States alone, and saved a depressed video game industry.

9. Tetris, 1987. An insidiously addictive puzzle game that made video game junkies out of nongamers.

10. John Madden Football, 1988. And thus, the best-selling video game franchise is born ... on the Commodore 64.

11. Street Fighter II: The World Warrior, 1992. Street Fighter II was far better than its predecessor, and is credited with making the 2D fighting genre popular for years to come.

12. The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past, 1992. The Zelda RPG (role-playing game) series comes to the Super Nintendo System, and is considered by many to be the greatest game of all time.

13. Castle Wolfenstein 3D, 1992. Without it, there would be no Duke Nukem 3D, Doom, GoldenEye, Halo, and Bioshock.

14. Grand Theft Auto, 1997. The controversial and popular series began life as a controversial PC game before being ported to the PlayStation a year later.

15. The Sims, 2000. Millions of real people loved playing god to simulated people, and made The Sims the best-selling computer game of all time.

16. World of Warcraft, 2004. World of Warcraft was not the first MMORPG, but it's the best and by far the most popular. It even spawned an Emmy-winning South Park episode.

17. Guitar Hero, 2005; Wii Sports, 2006. The nontraditional methods of video game play offered by Guitar Hero (a guitar controller) and Wii Sports (motion-based controllers) reached out to nongamers in a way nothing has before.

18. What's Next?...........

Image Source : Google

Why Spore has Longlife - Spore's Insider Take

2008-09-28T03:18:00.000-07:00

Video As Seen on msnbc.com

Now players are gods of a galaxy, much of it their own making. Spore isn't just a game; it's evolution at work. Consider it the next evolutionary event in gaming that's about to begin......

Or, it has already begun.

Spore is a single-player game in which players share online creations, but really Spore is a part simulation, part user-created experience with play divided into five evolutionary stages: cell, creature, tribe, civilization, and space.

In cell, your existence begins as a single-cell organism, with the choice of being a carnivore or herbivore. Your goal is simply to eat, reproduce, survive, and evolve to the creature stage, where you have similar goals. At both stages, completing enough tasks — consuming enough material, or wiping out a competing species — rewards you with the ability to evolve your character, determining its appearance and its general behavior.

By stage three you're onto the tribal stage, where your now-sentient creature begins to create a community and makes peace or conquers other surrounding communities. The civilization stage is similar, only you have considerably more massive weapons at your disposal, having traded in spears for nuclear missiles.

Once you can lay claim to conquering your planet, you're ready to leave your world and visit others in the space stage as colonizer, conqueror, or peace maker.

Complete enough tasks and your species evolves into higher intellects, eventually
reaching god-level status.

Spore is as grand and epic as any title, past or present. It's also more than just a game.

Already a month in release, Spore has sold one million copies.

However, Metacritic.com awards Spore an overall rating of 85 out of 100, based on 46 reviews, with the yea-ers praising the game's scope, the nay-ers criticizing the game's familiar stages.

Still, nearly all critics laud the sum of Spore's parts as a remarkable achievement in gaming.

Article: Read interview of PCW with Spore executive producer Lucy Bradshaw

Screenshots:

de Blob - Review [A Wii must-own]

2008-09-28T01:40:00.000-07:00

From Blue Tongue comes the latest must-own game for the Nintendo Wii. Prepare yourself to paint the town red with de Blob.

INKT Corporation minions have roamed the streets of Chroma City – the capital of Raydia – using paintbots to suck up all colour from the buildings, parks and surrounds, much to the distress of the locals who are now imprisoned as Greydians.

As part of the Colour Underground – a group of colour revolutionaries – Blob must restore colour, and general funk to Chroma City once again.

Like the under appreciated (at least in sales) Boom Blox, de Blob brings an element of free flowing fun to the Nintendo Wii platform, which is saying something since, free flowing family fun is the corner stone of the Wii demographic.

de Blob manages to stand apart from much of the Nintendo stable though with that unique combination of simple pick up and play fun and yet deep re-playability that developers strive for in this market.

Blue Tongue have managed to bring a major slice of personality into what essentially is a waggle puzzle paint game.

Playing the part of de Blob, a character that essentially is a big ball of paint, players are free to roam around splashing colour everywhere, building up colour points simply by smashing, jumping and running over sections of the cityscape.

Graphically, de Blob presents a level of crisp design that could happily sit on the more powerful platforms of Xbox 360 or PS3. As Blob combines painbots, using primary colours to unlock a greater palette, add collected style icons, the splattered paint acquires funkier and further psychedelic patterns.

The soundtrack to the game is just as important as the visuals, flutes or guitar riffs play as buildings are painted, and many different styles of background audio add another layer to the enjoyment not only to those actually playing the game, but those – as is inevitable in a Wii household – observing.

Screenshots:

Developer: Blue Tongue
Publisher: THQ
Rating: PG

Fined $180,000 for Xbox, Ps3 Counterfeit

2008-09-28T00:37:00.000-07:00

The 27-year-old Yewchoo Ng is charged with one count of mail fraud and if convicted he faces up to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, plus restitution.He is accused of buying new Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 consoles, taking off the serial numbers and putting them on older equipment and then returning them to get the Cash back.

Ng counterfeited more than $180,000 from Target, Amazon, Buy.com, Best Buy, Circuit City, Sears and Wal-Mart.

He would put the older, inoperable equipment in the boxes of the new equipment before returning it to the store for a full refund on several different credit cards and store-issued gift cards.

He would then sell the new video game consoles on eBay or other online shopping Web sites.

Round 1: Facebreaker Review

2008-09-28T00:06:00.000-07:00

With Facebreaker, the EA camp ha sshifted towards delivering an over-the-top acrade style brawler. Face Breaker is supposed to make boxing a little more accessible, unlike Fight Night Round 3, it doesn't involve complex controls and is basically designed for a quick session of pick-up and play. I was mostly satisfied with the game. My concern was that with fighting mechanics simply distinguished as high punch and low punch, the game would lack depth in gameplay, but then again the game has been designed for more of a casual crowd. Well I was clearly wrong, this time when I got more hands on time with the game and a better adversary (a fellow gamer aka Faiyaz) I realized that there is more to the game than a simple punch-punch-duck-punch.

Game Summary

The preview version of the game had more fighters and more arenas. I picked on an exceptional eccentric character called Romeo. This spanish boxer packs more attitude than punches and looks hilarious. In face Breaker there are a few basic fighting mechanics punches, parries, blocks, throws and doge. Each unique character has a different style, this includes the way they move, dodge or even throw. This verstitlity in the game keeps you guessing and trying out new characters, although unlike other fighting games, FB doesn't offer unique combos, they do offer unique finishing moves per character.

A good player will be able to finish Facebreaker within seconds, I remember one game in which i was defeated in 8 seconds. The idea is to land a few punches, get your Facebreaker meter (that's what I am calling it) and finish off the opponent with your facebreaker combo. Its not that simple since a smarter opponent will be able to parry and break your rhythm. Another thing that I was able to notice more closely was the face deformation that takes place while playing the game. This time with more time on our hands and better opponents I was able to witness the face deformation in its true glory. FB's character design is quite animated and the same goes for its face deformation.

Xbox goes Cheap: At $199, Xbox 360 Invites Everyone to Play

2008-09-27T23:56:00.000-07:00

Imagine if friends and families had the ability to instantly watch movies from Netflix, live out their musical fantasies through "Rock Band 2" (Harmonix/MTV Games) and "Lips" (iNiS Corp./Microsoft Game Studios), star in their own Hollywood classics with "You're in the Movies," or have the power to never miss the latest episode of "Heroes" -- all from one device, starting at $199(1). That device is Xbox 360, and Microsoft Corp. today announced it will offer the gaming and entertainment console, which offers the leading Xbox LIVE service, at a new low price in the United States. Beginning Sept. 5, Xbox 360 Arcade will retail for the estimated retail price of $199.99, the Xbox 360 console for $299.99 and Xbox 360 Elite for $399.99.

"We are thrilled to be the first next-generation console on the market to reach $199, a price that invites everyone to enjoy Xbox 360," said Don Mattrick, senior vice president of the Interactive Entertainment Business at Microsoft. "Xbox 360 delivers amazing performance at an extraordinary value with the leading online service and best lineup of games, downloadable movies and TV shows available from a console. The majority of consumers make the decision to buy consoles once the price falls to this mark, making this an important milestone for consumers and the industry."

History shows that more than 75 percent of all console sales happen after the price falls below the $200 mark. For millions of consumers who have been waiting for the perfect time to buy an Xbox 360 console, their moment has finally arrived. At $199, Xbox 360 is the most affordable next-generation console on the market, offering something for everyone with the most dynamic, interactive entertainment experiences available.

Xbox 360 Arcade plus a 12-month Xbox LIVE Gold Membership and a Netflix subscription costs $100 less than 12 months of digital cable. Xbox 360 invites everyone into a limitless world where the best games, movies and TV shows can be enjoyed live side-by-side with your personal pictures and music library.

No matter what kind of game makes your heart race, Xbox 360 has something for everyone. Music lovers can play new games such as "Lips" (iNiS/Microsoft Game Studios), the only singing game that offers wireless motion-sensitive microphones and the ability to sing along to your own music collection(2); "Guitar Hero(R) World Tour" (Activision/RedOctane); and "Rock Band 2" (Harmonix/MTV Games), the next evolution of the franchise exclusively launching on Xbox 360 that allows players to virtually step into the shoes of their favorite bands. Players can enjoy family-friendly games such as the big- screen movie-maker "You're in the Movies" (Codemasters Software Company Ltd./Microsoft) and blockbusters such as "Gears of War 2," the biggest entertainment event of this holiday season. Plus, with Xbox LIVE Arcade, downloadable games are available that the entire family can enjoy -- with titles such as "Braid," "Castle Crashers," "Geometry Wars: Retro Evolved 2," "PAC-MAN Championship Edition" and "Uno."(3)

Whether you want access to streaming movies and TV shows or a library of high-definition content, you will find it on Xbox 360. Starting this fall, Xbox 360 is the only game console to offer instant streaming of more than 12,000 feature films and television shows from Netflix(4). In addition, the Xbox LIVE Video store has more than twice as many hours of high-definition (HD) movies and TV shows than the nearest competitor(5). Download your favorite TV shows such as "30 Rock," "The Office" and "House," and even get a little old school with "The A-Team." If it's movies you want, check out the latest blockbusters and the best in family films, cult classics, horror and much more, all available through Xbox LIVE and Xbox 360.

Nova Gaming Enters Gaming Market with Slider X600

2008-09-27T23:20:00.000-07:00

Nova Gaming is best known as a long-time purveyor of a line of high-performance gaming mousepads in the Killer, Winner, Master and Raider series. And, now, to make sure its Nova B4L gamer's bag has more Nova gear inside than ever before, the French company is rolling out a gaming mouse, the Slider X600, at next week's E for All Expo in Los Angeles.

The gaming mouse market already has some formidable competition, such as the corded Logitech G9 (laser sensor, up to 3200 dpi, interchangeable grips, 5 buttons, adjustable mouse weights), corded Microsoft SideWinter (laser sensor, up to 2000 dpi sensor, 5 buttons, adjustable mouse weights and replaceable feet) and upcoming cordless Microsoft SideWinder X8 (Blue Track optical sensor, up to 4000 dpi, replaceable mouse feet, macro recording).

So, what does the Slider X600 bring to the table?

* Ceramic mouse feet (described as "indestructible")
* Up to 3200 dpi resolution
* Three mouse profiles
* Eight programmable buttons
* Five lighting color options
* A unique right-side location for the USB cable (see photo)

To keep the cord from getting in the way, Nova Gaming is also rolling out a new mouse pad, the OVER Slide, which features a cable clip on one side and Nova Gaming's trademark beveled-edge design which warns the user when he or she is about to mouse off the pad. OVER Slide features a 12,000 dpi ceramic mousing surface. Slider X600 will retail for $99.99, and the OVER Slide for $39.99, and you won't have long to wait: they're due in November.

Gamers, what do you think? Can a master of gaming mousepads understand the other half of the equation? Do you like the idea of a side-mounted cable or are you waiting for a wireless gaming mouse? Hit Comment and tell us what you're looking for, mousewise.

The Next Gaming: Google Android

2008-09-27T23:11:00.000-07:00

You may have noticed that the smartphone market is no longer exclusive to corporate types in three piece suits. While those guys on Wall Street still make up a good part of the business, the regular Joe and Jane on Main Street are getting in on smartphones too, as well as their tech-savvy children.

With the arrival of the Apple iPhone 3G and, more specifically, the arrival of the App Store, the mass populace was entertained with the possibility of the iPhone being a legitimate gaming platform, competing directly against the Sony PSP and the Nintendo DS. Up until then, most cell phone games were lacklustre knockoffs of their console counterparts or they were remarkably simple casual games meant to occupy no more than a couple minutes of your time. The iPhone, on the other hand, has some "real" games like Super Monkey Ball. That iPhone game is almost as complex and graphically impressive as the version on the GameCube. That's saying quite a bit.

Now that the T-Mobile G1 with Google has been officially introduced to the world, we are once again entertained with the possibility of another viable mobile platform for gaming. How will Google Android and the Android Market hold up against the iPhone and the App Store? How about against the DS and PSP?

Kicking It Old School with Emulators

If you read my feature article a few days ago about the applications that I would like to see developed for the Google Android platform, then you will know that one of my requests is for an NES emulator. Imagine all the nostalgic gaming action that you'll be able to enjoy should such an emulator be developed. Going a little further, developers could try to create emulators for the SNES and the Sega Genesis as well.

One of the key advantages that the Android Market would have over the App Store is that the former is largely unregulated. This means that legally gray apps, like an NES emulator, would have a greater chance of being legitimately published and maintained. This would be quite the stretch, but can you imagine if Nintendo started to sell legal ROMs for these emulators? That'll never happen, but it is logistically possible.

Pushing the Graphical Envelope

There really is no phone out there that can be compared directly to the T-Mobile G1, because it is running on an all-new operating system. This is partly why you can't compare a MacBook with a Windows notebook on a spec-for-spec basis. The same can be said about an XP netbook and a larger Vista notebook. Spec for spec, the netbook would feel faster and, arguably, more powerful.

It will certainly be interesting to see how graphically intense the games for the G1 will be. It can probably replicate a Tetris clone or even the iPhone's Super Monkey Ball, but how about a mobile Gears of War? Grand Theft Auto? Can it provide a PSP-like experience?

It could be close enough to be a viable option. The trouble with creating more graphically intense games for Android is storage capacity. Home consoles use optical discs. The DS has individual cartridges. The G1, by contrast, will have to rely on microSDHC memory cards. How many games will it handle? Let's not forget that you're using the same memory card for music, videos, documents, and other applications too.

Possible Control Schemes and Other Innovations

Because of the relatively innovative design of the HTC Dream G1, you are effectively offered three possible control schemes, in addition to any combination thereof.

First, you've got that touchsceen display. This opens up the possibility of fun puzzle games like Bejeweled and Zuma that are normally played with a computer mouse. The touchsceen aspect can be replaced or supplemented with the trackball as well and this may be a possible solution for the lack of multitouch.

Second, you have a slide-out QWERTY keyboard. By using the WSAD standard and a couple of other keys, you can have a similar experience as a classic joypad. Maybe you can combine the WSAD with the trackball for a keyboard+mouse experience.

Third, you have the accelerometer. This opens up iPhone-like racing games, Monkey Ball, and so on. Combine the tilt sensor with the touchscreen or keyboard and you've got all sorts of unique gaming opportunities.

Get Your Game On with Google Android

It may a little while for Google Android to really show its strength, because it's going to take some time for developers to learn the intricacies of the platform. As the OS matures and is built upon by the budding community, I can totally see Android and the ensuing hardware to offer a lot of fun for gamers, especially if they keep the game prices in line with the iPhone App Store. I don't think anyone will spend fifty bucks on an Android game, but five or six bucks is a total impulse buy.

Sony and Microsoft to end console wars after PS3 and Xbox 360?

2008-09-27T22:06:00.000-07:00

Just last weekend, I spoke about the next generation of consoles and who is likely to be involved. I think all three current players, Sony, Microsoft, and Nintendo are likely to play again, but some feel differently. Could it be that the PS3 and Xbox 360 are the last consoles from Sony and Microsoft respectively?

Nintendo is guaranteed to be in the next generation console war. For starters, it is a company which only deals with video games, so even if the big N decided to get out of console manufacturing, it would still develop and publish games, much like Sega has done since the Dreamcast crashed and burned. But it’s unlikely to drop out of the console manufacturing business any time soon because the Wii and DS are both phenomenal successes.

But there are question marks over Sony and Microsoft’s long-term plans. And one person who thinks that both companies future isn’t going to involve consoles is Alex St. John, CEO & Founder of WildTangent, a PC game network.

According to GameTopius (no, me neither), St. John was recently part of a panel titled ‘Debate Club: Is the Console Entertainment Hub of the Future or Fighting to Stay Alive?’ at the first annual New York Games Conference.

The pro-console team first argued that consoles are the future thanks to the cost of high-end PC gaming, the ability to play from the comfort of your couch, and consoles becoming media hubs. But then it was the anti-console team’s turn, and the views expressed by St. John were controversial and explosive. He said:

Sony is not the company they use to be and the Playstation 3 is a market failure. Sony will never recover the billions they lost on the current generation of consoles. Sony says we’re not making another for ten years, which is code for we can never make back the billions we lost on PS3, let alone convince our executives to make one again.

Microsoft has a hole mile deep dug in the middle of Microsoft’s Campus to bury the billion dollars of broken Xbox 360’s they’ve got. The Xbox business is not a profitable business for them. It’s only become incrementally profitable for them after many years, and billions invested. To give you some perspective the Xbox 360, which is the second most popular console in the U.S; All Xbox revenues combined; create less revenue than World of Warcraft subscriptions. The entire 360 software business is minuscule compared to one PC game.

So the interesting observation, is that both Microsoft and Sony are in a position where they’re unlikely to ever have the motive to invest the billions into making another generation of consoles.

It’s easy to dismiss St. John’s comments either as the ramblings of a madman, or of a man whose business is solely reliant on PC gaming, of which the latter is ultimately correct. But, everything he says is factual, and deserves some thought.

The PS3 is a market failure at this moment in time. Although that failure may ultimately be turned around in the end, with Home and LittleBigPlanet possibly kick-starting a sales climb this Christmas, will it be enough to turn around the losses Sony has already made on the Playstation 3 hardware?

Microsoft has also lost a fortune on this generation console war, with the great Red Ring of Death debacle costing the company over $1 billion to fix. And with the recent price cuts across the board, each console unit sold is likely costing the company more than ever. Will the impressive software attach rate be enough to tempt Microsoft in to another round of console wars?

I foresee the Wii 2 making an appearance in the next couple of years, but then my crystal ball goes a bit cloudy and I’m not sure of the future. There could be another console generation beyond this one, but nothing is guaranteed at this point. I hope you’ll all be content to only own a Nintendo console in ten years time.

Info source http://gamer.blorge.com

Game Console Makers: $9B in Online Content and Services by 2013

2008-09-27T21:44:00.000-07:00

In 2013, online/digital content and services for internet-connected game consoles will generate some $8.7 billion in global revenue for Microsoft, Sony, and Nintendo, the three console manufacturers, according to a new report from Parks Associates.

“The Connected Consoles: Games, Media, and Beyond” report forecasts revenue streams from digital video distribution, downloadable games and content, virtual worlds and avatar-based microtransactions, multiplayer gaming services, and dynamic in-game advertising.

“Broadband connectivity, now a common feature for game consoles, is a key enabler for new business models,” said Yuanzhe (Michael) Cai, director of Broadband and Gaming, Parks Associates. “Among the different online revenue opportunities, digital video distribution and downloadable games and content are the most promising.”

Among the “big three” game console manufacturers, Microsoft dominates the online content and service market, but Sony and Nintendo are gaining ground as they ramp up their base of connected customers and diversify monetization methods, Parks said.

Among those watching video on Xbox Live, movie trailers (65%), music videos (59%) and cartoons (38%) are the top 3 content types. Hollywood movies are fourth, with 35% saying they have watched them on Xbox Live.

The most telling determinate of game console ownership among households is whether children live there: Seven in ten (70%) of households with children own game consoles. Nearly half of single households also own game consoles.

Among the study’s forecasts:

Together, Xbox 360, PS3, and Wii will generate some $1.2 billion globally in digital content and services revenue this year, mostly from downloadable games and videos. In 2013, the total revenue figure will exceed $8.7 billion.
Sony’s and Microsoft’s digital video revenue will exceed $4 billion in 2013.
In 2013, 170+ million game consoles will be internet-connected: 74 million Wiis, 60 million PS3s, and 38 million Xbox 360s.
In 2013, the three current-gen consoles will together generate $2.5 billion in digital download revenue (full-game downloads and downloadable content).

Other findings:

By the end of June 2008, nearly 30 million Wii units had been sold.
In July 2008, Microsoft said there were 12+ million registered Xbox Live members.
In August 2008, Sony said there were 10 million registered PlayStation Network accounts, with an estimated 50% connection rate globally.

“As game consoles become focal points in tens of millions of households and deliver not only games but also video and music content, service providers need to prepare for potential revenue cannibalization and a new kind of competitor,” the Parks Associates report concludes.

“Initially, cannibalization will be limited to Video-On-Demand services, but as console makers aggregate ad-supported, subscription-based, and eventually linear TV content, the cannibalization impact will increase, especially among younger consumers. Service providers should cooperate with console manufacturers to determine mutually beneficial partnerships.”

(Yuanzhe (Michael) Cai is moderating the session “Games of Tomorrow and the Future of MMOGs,” September 26, at Digital Media Wire’s NY Games Conference.)

About the study: “Connected Consoles: Games, Media, and Beyond” profiles new console-related capabilities, services and business models, including online multiplayer gaming, virtual worlds, dynamic in-game advertising, and digital delivery. It also forecasts revenue growth and market share and examines the impact of game consoles on other industries.

Info Source: http://seekingalpha.com

Fracture First Look : Exclusive Interview

2008-09-27T10:42:00.000-07:00

LucasArts announced Fracture during an event at its Presidio offices held to showcase the mid-2008 third-person action game for the very first time. Developed by Day 1 Studios, which also made the MechAssault games for Microsoft, Fracture portrays a futuristic American civil war, though instead of restaging the epic North/South conflict, this time it's West Coast and East Coast going at it.

There's a "ripped from the headlines" quality about the premise of Fracture's story, as it dabbles in current hot topics such as genetic engineering and global warming. Basically, about 100 years in the future, a bunch of East Coast scientists create the first genetically engineered humans, but something goes horribly awry (as these things tend to do) and the first generation of Humanity 2.0 dies terrible deaths. Outraged at science run amok, the Eastern states outlaw genetic engineering, which sends the scientists to the West Coast, where they're welcome. A few decades later, the East Coast attempts to completely outlaw genetic engineering nationwide, which causes the West Coast to secede from the union and trigger a civil war. On one side is the high-tech, cybernetic East Coast and its European allies, forming the Atlantic Alliance, while on the other side is the West Coast and its Asian allies, forming the Republic of Pacifica. Oh, and we should mention that global warming created a slew of natural disasters like earthquakes and floods that pretty much wiped out the Midwest, meaning West Coast and East Coast are physically divided by water. (Sorry, Ohio and Texas!)

The big feature in Fracture, and what it derives its name from, is that the future scientists have also figured out tectonic weaponry, which means that you have the ability to deform terrain in the game in real time. That's a fancy way of saying you can literally shape the battlefield as you play. You do this by tossing a variety of special grenades that can mold the land before your eyes. There are five practical purposes for this: protection, navigation, destruction, puzzle solving, and tactical advantage. For instance, if you're under fire, you can toss a tectonic grenade that causes the ground to rise and form a mound in front of you, creating instant cover and blocking the line of sight between you and the enemy. Or, if there's a chasm, you can toss a spike grenade to cause a stone pillar to form out of the ground, letting you cross. Another example is that if there's a building you need to enter but can't, you can toss subsonic grenades to cause the ground to sink, letting you "dig" beneath the walls and carve out a tunnel. And perhaps the most violent grenade is the vortex grenade, which causes a hole to erupt in the ground that sucks in everything near it, including people, and then spins as an energy whirlwind that builds up and explodes.

LucasArts hopes that Fracture will be the opening chapter in a major new franchise for the company, which is striving to develop new intellectual properties while also focusing on its core franchises: Star Wars and Indiana Jones. It sees Fracture as having a rich story to tell. You'll play as Mason Briggs, a soldier in the Atlantic Alliance who is sent west to put down those Pacifican rebels. Briggs, a demolitions expert, will rely on his variety of special grenades, but will also have an arsenal of conventional weapons. The mix of conventional and tectonic warfare is the game's strength, as it should let you fight in ways that you haven't experienced before and provide plenty of replayability. The demonstration LucasArts held had Briggs in a fierce battle against Pacifican soldiers and Hydras, elite genetically engineered troops clad in exoskeleton armor and able to leap high into the air. The battlefield was a dried-out San Francisco Bay (not too far from LucasArts' offices, in fact), and the majestic Golden Gate Bridge was nearby, rising out of the dry earth. The action was fierce, but Briggs used his grenades in a number of ways to defeat the enemies. This included causing a giant mound to rise up next to a small cliff and then using weapons fire to carve out steps to climb up and reach a previously inaccessible spot.

Fracture is being developed for the PlayStation 3 and the Xbox 360, and Day 1 president Denny Thorley said that the company was "wringing" the advanced hardware on both systems for everything they've got. For instance, the game can use a dedicated core for physics, which is important considering all of the objects that move around when the ground gets deformed constantly. We should also expect some pretty sophisticated artificial intelligence, as the enemies have the same grenades that you do, which means they'll need to understand how to use terrain deformation to their advantage, as well. The visuals themselves are very sharp, and the game takes place entirely in third person, a decision made because it helps frame all the terrain deformation in context since your character is always onscreen.

LucasArts and Day 1 didn't get into too many details regarding multiplayer, but the game will certainly have it, especially considering the developer's track record. MechAssault was the key Xbox Live launch title, helping to establish Microsoft's popular online service, and Day 1 is eager to show off what it can do online with a game where you can reshape the battlefield at will. Though considering that the game is a year away from shipping, the companies are holding off on multiplayer details for now. And that pretty much sums up the current state of things regarding the rest of the game at this point. With at least a full year to go in development, we're going to have plenty of time in the coming months to learn more about Fracture.

Spore is Officially a Hit

2008-09-25T10:56:00.000-07:00

Electronic Arts wants you to know that Spore is officially a huge success.

Since the game's September 7 release, over 1 million copies have been sold and players have uploaded more than 25 million creatures and surprisingly Freudian spaceships to Sporepedia, the game's online content repository.

"Will Wright’s latest delivers an incredibly diverse game that appeals to casual gamers and the core alike," said EA Games president Frank Gibeau. "We’re off to a great start moving into the holiday season and believe Spore will deliver a platform of creativity for gamers of all stripes for years to come."

Unfortunately for opponents of EA's controversial DRM scheme, Spore's tremendous sales probably won't deter the company from applying the system to future games, no matter how many internet petitions they receive.

source: blog.wired.com/games

Punisher: No Mercy Revealed for PSN

2008-09-24T11:03:00.000-07:00

Presumably in an effort to tie in to this holiday season's Punisher: War Zone film, the PlayStation Network will receive a downloadable Punisher title dubbed Punisher: No Mercy.

Very few details on the game exist so far, but Zen Studios managing director Zsolt Kigyossy did reveal that the game will be a first-person, multiplayer arena shooter powered by Epic Games' Unreal Engine 3.

Additionally (and most likely in an effort to deflect the anger of notriously petulant comic book fans), Kigyossy promised cameos from a number of supporting characters from the Punisher universe, including "Jigsaw, Bushwacker, Barracuda and even Silver Sable."

Kigyossy failed to reveal any release date or pricing details for the title.

Image courtesy Sony

source: blog.wired.com/games

Halo Wars To Be Shut Down

2008-09-24T11:01:00.000-07:00

The developer of Halo Wars was "shocked" to learn that owner Microsoft would be shutting the studio down on completion of its final title, says one of Ensemble Studio's key players.

Ensemble's Bruce Shelley, writing a blog entry on the company's official site Monday, said: "Everyone at our studio was shocked, and I think remains very disappointed that this is going to happen. I believe we thought we were immune to shut-down talk because our published games have done so well and have been so profitable."

Halo Wars is a real-time strategy game set in the world of the popular FPS. Its official web site says that the Xbox 360 game is slated for release in the first half of 2009.

Ensemble will remain open until the game is finished.

source: blog.wired.com/games

LittleBigPlanet Online Level Creation

2008-09-24T10:57:00.000-07:00

Another day, another disappointing feature delay for Sony: LittleBigPlanet won't ship with the vaunted online creation mode.

A developer posting on the make-your-own-platformer game's official forum clarified a line that recently appeared on LittleBigPlanet's official website. That line read, "We are already hard at work on some cool ideas for the way gamers can interact, including the ability to create levels together online in a multiplayer jamming mode!" This was surprising insofar as this was one of the game's main draws. The developer said that the line was correct -- multiplayer online creation wouldn't appear in the disc version, and would be added at some later date.

So Sony is two for two on letting me down over the past few days, as the feature I thought was most interesting about PlayStation 3's virtual world Home -- online video sharing -- has also been sliced out of the launch version. And now, here's my most-anticipated feature of LittleBigPlanet, pushed back.
source: blog.wired.com/games

Bungie Site Teases Mystery Game

2008-09-24T10:56:00.000-07:00

Bungie's official website was updated recently with a post and image teasing a new game from the Halo creators.

The information on the site is extremely cryptic, but those who have been longtime Halo fans will remember similar viral ad campaigns preceding each game in that series.

Thanks to some friends within Bungie, I already know what the eventual revelation is going to be. The bad news is that I can't actually say anything without getting sued and excommunicated from my social group, but I will say that most of you can probably guess what the mystery title is.

Image courtesy Bungie

source: blog.wired.com/games

Rumor: Windows 7 Automatically Patches Games

2008-09-24T10:30:00.001-07:00

The next version of Microsoft's Windows Operating System may include an automatic patching system designed to keep your PC games up to date, assuming you believe a second-hand screenshot published by Shacknews.

The picture, originally provided by ThinkNext (a blog that has subsequently been contacted by Microsoft and asked to remove the screenshot), appears to show an options menu from Windows 7 offering gamers the opportunity to have the OS "Automatically scan for updates" for games.

Based on the screenshot it is unknown where Windows 7 would find these updates (a central repository, or if it would actually crawl the entirety of the internet) or if this option only applies to Microsoft's own games, but it does seem like a convenient ability that would mirror the "update" functionality of Xbox Live.

source: blog.wired.com/games

Force Unleashed Breaks Sales Records

2008-09-24T10:28:00.000-07:00

Despite the generally negative review scores Star Wars: The Force Unleashed has been receiving, the game has sold 1.5 million copies in less than a week, according to LucasArts.

Not only is this a huge number, it sets records as the best-selling Star Wars game of all time and the best-selling LucasArts game of all time, beating out (more deserving) classics like Loom, The Secret of Monkey Island and Maniac Mansion.

As if that wasn't proof enough of the branding power of a nearly 40-year-old fictional universe, the novelization of the game topped the New York Times bestseller list during its first week of availability.

Image courtesy LucasArts
source: blog.wired.com/games

Valve: No Updates for Team Fortress 2 PS3

2008-09-24T10:09:00.000-07:00

Team Fortress fans who have been getting their fix via the PlayStation 3 version of The Orange Box are in for a shock: The updates coming to the PC and Xbox 360 versions of TF2 won't be landing on Sony's console, reports 1up.

Additionally, the monolithic console is unlikely to ever see any updates from Valve. "We don't have PlayStation developers," said Valve marketing head Doug Lombardi.

"They're not doing ongoing development on The Orange Box for the PS3."

source: blog.wired.com/games

Happy 15th Birthday, Myst

2008-09-24T10:06:00.000-07:00

Myst celebrates its 15th birthday

Cyan Worlds' breakthrough hit adventure game is notable for the fact that it became the best-selling computer game of all time by selling 6 million copies since its launch for Mac on September 24, 1993. But it is perhaps more notable for being considered the "killer app" for the CD-ROM format, putting CD drives into many a personal computer.

We've got a This Day In Tech piece on the game up on the front door today.

source: blog.wired.com/games