Sunday, August 31, 2008

Software To Copy Ps2 Games Quickly

Writen by Greg Edwards

By spending 30 to 50 pounds, you can get a PS2 game. If it is damaged by accident you can restore it or make it usable if you take a little bit of trouble to use proper software to copy the PS2 games quickly.

PS2 games can be copied to the hard disk or regular DVDs, CDs if you are sure of what you are doing and use good quality software.

PS2 games come with nearly unbreakable protection against copying. With certain type of copying process, you need additional hardware, which needs to be installed in your computer to play the PS2 games copied from the original. When you are buying software to copy PS2 games quickly, make sure to know what is involved. Linux or Mac platforms do not support all the PS2 copying software.

When software tries to access areas of the PS2 games, the encrypted content scrambling system or CSS blocks the access if you do not provide the required authentication. It is also illegal to bye-pass this copy protection in some countries so make sure that you are not breaking any law by using the software to copy PS2 games.

A mod chip is required to play back the copied games and software to copy PS2 games too requires them. You add the mod chip to your game console and after modifying it to boot all CDs, not only the coded bit in front indicating that loaded disk contains a video game. External devices are also available which carry out the functions of a mod chip once it is plugged to the system.

Advantage of using software to copy PS2 games is the copied games can be played in the personal computer without adding any other special devices.

For the ultimate game storage and management system, you can try HD Loader (For Playstation 2). This software executes the copy process and stores the entire PS2 games cleanly in the IDE hard disk or the legal PS2 hard disk drive.

Version 2.73 of Game Copy Pro is another technologically advanced software to copy PS2 games quickly.

Copy DVDz is yet another software available in the market to copy PS2 games quickly.

Looking for a good software to copy PS2 games and other playstation games? You have come to the right place... An amazing software with a detailed step-by-step manual which will cover the process of burning your PS 1 or PS2 games. Click on the website link for download instructions : Software To Copy PS2 Games Quickly

Saturday, August 30, 2008

How To Put Videos On Your Ipod

Writen by Emma Drosy

Want to know how to put videos on your iPod? This is actually a common question with iPod users. Though many know it can be done, few know how to put videos on your iPod. But it isn't as difficult or as complicated as it may seem. All you need, really, are some interesting videos and your iPod. And you're ready.

You'll be glad to know that a lot of videos will already be compatible with your iPod. To test any piece of video, simply transfer it from your computer to your iPod and see if it works. If it does not work, that video is not compatible. Now the question of how to put videos on your iPod becomes important. If the video isn't compatible, does it mean that you should just give up?

The good news is, if you want to know how to put videos on your iPod and you learn that your video isn't compatible, there are a bevy of (free) conversion programs available online. The great thing about the Internet is that you really can find the tools that you need, like when you want to know how to put videos on your iPod. A simple search will yield many different conversion programs. Simply find the one that's right for you (and spend some time, playing around with them first to determine if it's a program you want to use) and you'll be ready to go. Convert the video and then put it on your iPod. Now you know how to put videos on your iPod.

And the best part, it's very easy! If you want to know how to put videos on your iPod, know that it only takes a couple of minute to find and download a conversion program that's easy to work with and won't take up too much space. You can put all the videos on your iPod that you want, without having to worry about it ever again. You can use your conversion program over and over again. How to put videos on your iPod? Easily, and without any trouble at all!

Good luck putting music on your IPod!!

http://www.PSPdownloadheaven.com - For more info About PSP downloads

Friday, August 29, 2008

Console Gaming Vs Computer Gaming

Writen by Jared Strop

It's an age-old question that will only get more and more intense in the coming year as the Xbox 360 is in full swing and the PS3 and Revolution release. Which is better? What system is right for me? Well, I would suggest both, but if you have to choose one or the other then you have to consider a few things.

Price is definitely a big issue. I mean, when's the last time you didn't even bat an eye when are buying something 500 bucks or more? The bottom line: Computer gaming is more expensive. Why? Because computers aren't made just for games. They are calculators, word processors, Internet navigators, music players, movie watchers, and photo editors. They are much more than a gaming machine. Consoles, on the other hand, generally aren't. It's only recently that consoles have gone online starting with the Dreamcast and I haven't seen anyone printing off spreadsheets or book reports from one yet. Consoles are purely for gaming and run between 100-500 bucks. PCs on the other hand are much more than a gaming machine and run between 1,500-3,000 dollars and need to be upgraded every now and again to play the newest and greatest games.

Genre is an issue. If you are a Real Time Strategy fan and only have a console, I mourn for you. And if you are a platformer fan, then computer gaming will be a sad mistake. Genre makes a big deal because of the controller vs. keyboard/mouse issue. Different games play much better on the different configurations. Computer gaming is best for Real Time Strategy (RTS) games, First Person Shooters (FPS), Massively Multiplayer Online Role Playing Games (MMORG), Flight Simulation games, and Point and Click Adventure games. The consoles on the other hand are better for Fighting games, Action/Adventure games, Platformers, Role Playing Games (RPG), and Sports games.

Tech savvy can possibly be an issue. Computers are a little more unstable than consoles. I mean, when's the last time you saw a Playstation lock up or get a blue screen of death? Never, right? The same thing comes in here. Some computer games might be a little stubborn to set up the way your computer likes it or your computer might not meet the system requirements. Consoles, on the other hand, don't have that problem. The people designing the games have to fit the requirements of the console so that you don't have a problem. If you have a basic knowledge of computers, you'll be fine. If you don't, then a console might be better for you.

So as I've explained, if you want more than a gaming system for school and work or you just like gaming genres like RTS and MMORG games, I would go with a PC. If you love platformers, Action/Adventure, or Sports games or your wallet is a tad on the empty side, I'd go with a console. It won't be able to surf the Internet or help you with anything else, but it'll play some great games.

If you want a console by the end of this article, then you have 3 options at the moment. You could buy a Gamecube if you like innovation, buy a Xbox if you like the best graphics and FPS games, or buy a PS2 if you want a huge library of games or love fighting games, Action/Adventure games, platformers, and RPG games. You also have another option. You could wait until the Xbox 360 comes out this month and get that or wait until the Nintendo Revolution and PS3 come out next year.

If you want advise on gaming computers and computer gaming, then http://www.gaming-computers-authority.com is a great resource for all your questions and even has a tutorial on building your own computer.

Well, my name is Jared Strop and I've been a gamer for a very long time. I am currently hard at work at GameStop and a devoted webmaster.

Playstation 3

Writen by Sezer Bozkurt

Judging by early reports the Playstation 3 is going to be one sweet machine. It will have the revolutionary Blue-ray technology and the ability to watch and burn DVD's. This is very important as most consumers have DVD technology at the moment and it will be a smooth overlap.

The Playstation 3 will be like a mini computer, with a huge amount of processing power. Some might even say more processing power than the now released XBOX 360.

When the Playstation 2 was released 7 years ago, the average number of games sold per unit sold was 5. Fastforward to the PSP; it released and has only sold about 2 games per PSP sold. This is mainly because of the multimedia aspect of the game. People are buying it to watch movies just as much as they are to play the games.

This doesn't sound so bad, but it can cause problems for Sony. A lot of Sony's income from video game consoles are the licensing fees they charge video game companies to create games on any of Sony's console platforms. Thus, when less games are being sold, less money is being paid for the rights to make games since not as many games are being bought compared to the past.

Another possible problem with the Playstation 3 is the complexity of the interface. Since the Playstation 3 is so powerful, crtics are speculating that the console may confuse consumers and give the PS3 the reputation of being complicated.

Judging by the screenshots of games such as Fight Night Round 3 that were made for the Playstation 3 the life like imaging on the games are astounding.

Watever the case may be, we will have to wait until the release of the Playstation 3 to speculate on it's features. One thing if for sure, it will be a feature packed console like nothing consumers have seen before.

For more great articles and reviews please visit the links below:
http://www.technologyslice.com/Articles.htm
http://www.technologyslice.com/Reviews.htm
http://www.technologyslice.com

Thursday, August 28, 2008

Free Games

Writen by Ken Marlborough

Last year, the video game industry had made a whopping ten billion dollars selling their products to "gaming fanatics." Prices of popular titles going for forty dollars or more, so to find out if buying a new title is worth it, try downloading free demos or reading reviews written about it. The majority of game developers provide the public with websites about their new games. These websites provide consumers free demos on the latest games, updates on their latest games, and sneak peaks on upcoming games.

Have you ever found yourself longing to play that favorite computer game that you lost? It's possible that you can still find and relive those moments. Do a search on any popular search engine, and you just might find the same game or a variation of your favorite game.

Another great way of enjoying free games is by visiting MSN, Yahoo!, and other popular web portals. These web portals often offer single player 2D puzzle and action games. Some provide multiplayer games for those who enjoy playing these kinds of games with their friends. By simply typing keywords such as "free games," "games," or "free online games," you can enjoy playing a wide variety of games online.

All of these are just variations or simulations of the games that you want to play. If you really want to enjoy the games that you once played, the best thing to do is look for emulators. An emulator is software that lets you play games in their original coding. This means that you can enjoy every bit of the game you once loved playing without any modifications. Looking for the games that you want to play in your emulator is easy. By using search engines and the title of the game, you should be able to find a version that is compatible with your emulator.

Free Games provides detailed information on Free Games, Free Online Games, Free Mobile Games, Free Kids' Games and more. Free Games is affiliated with Free Online Kid Games.

Wednesday, August 27, 2008

The Nintendo Revolution May Need More Than Flash Memory

Writen by Ron Swerdfiger

Koei's Kenji Matsuhara, an executive in charge of the Dynasty Warrior shared his thoughts on next gen consoles during a speech at the Asia Online Game Conference 2006 in Tokyo. In his speech, Matsuhara offered his opinion on the Nintendo Revolution.

Matsuhara seemed to express some disappointment in respect to Nintendo's choice to use flash memory instead of a hard disk. His biggest concern with this format is of course the lack of available space noting that "a full 3D MMORPG (massively multiplayer Online RPG) may not fit."

In order to be successful in the next gen gaming, online features are becoming increasingly important. Regarding Nintendo's online plan, Matsuhara suggested that the DS Online plan could be a possible hint at what we can expect from the Nintendo Revolution.

By comparison, the Xbox 360 has a 20GB hard drive which is shipped with the more expensive premium bundles

Considering we no next to nothing about the games being developed for the Revolution, the issues of Flash Memory remains to be seen. If there is an issue with available space, perhaps Nintendo will offer an external memory solution, or opt to change the flash format all together?

Hopefully, by The E3 in May, all of these questions will be answered.

For more news, check out our Xbox 360 site or our PS3 site.

Pocket Pc And Ipod Technology Gap Closing

Writen by Damian Julien

Pocket PC owners, if Microsoft has its way, will hopefully have little to envy of their iPod toting brethren in the near future.

According to a TechNewsWorld article, Microsoft brashly announced plans to develop software to combat iPod and iTunes proliferation with their own software, Zune.

In all likelihood they're planning to horn in on this extremely lucrative section of the Apple technology market.

Looks like poor, cash-strapped Microsoft simply doesn't earn enough coin.

You might recall the Windows Genuine Advantage update (a.k.a Windows XP Anti-Piracy Detector) update that was suddenly sprung on fake Windows XP users last month.

This resulted in a multitude of dialog boxes at the Windows XP login page, imploring illegitimate users to please empty their pockets for a valid Windows operating system.

In the interim, Pocket PC and white MP3 player owners remain blissfully unaware of Microsoft's attempt to reclaim their desktop PC property.

Currently priced at $340 CDN according to the Microsoft product site, bundling it with Service Pack 2 affords small comfort.

Having your operating system coded into your handheld's read only memory suddenly doesn't seem all that bad.

This foray into the music software business seems to be an unusual move for Microsoft.

Creative, already floundering against the Apple handheld device phenomenon despite topping the video iPod for the CNET awards will now have to fight for space against Microsoft as well.

Never mind that Creative partnered with Microsoft to put their software on their Zen Micro and video Zen Vision players.

It's akin to befriending a performing bengal tiger only to have it savagely attack after being bopped on the nose with a microphone.

Creative seems to have its hands full, especially with news of Apple iPod and Creative Zen Micro patent disputes among other worries.

Maybe this will prompt Apple to actually create downloads for upcoming MP3 player and video player incarnations rivalling Pocket PC games. We'll see.

Damian Julien is a Pocket PC gaming authority and long time general gaming hobbyist and reviewer.

He is an IT specialist by trade and has posted numerous articles on Pocket PC emulators, gaming and trends in the industry.

http://www.pdagameguide.com/

Tuesday, August 26, 2008

How To Save Time Energy And Money By Renting Your Dvds And Games Online

Writen by Clyde Dennis

As a bit of a movie buff I recently discovered that the best way to rent movies and games these days is online using one of the Online DVD and Game Rental Services.

If you're into renting movies or games these services simply can't be beat for their time saving convenience and value.

The two biggest and probably most well known services are Netflix and Blockbuster.

Though they both work essentially the same way Netflix seems to be the largest of the online DVD rental services. Currently boasting over 3 million members.

For a very reasonable monthly fee I believe either one of these services will more than meet your DVD and Game Renting needs.

Some of the great benefits offered include:

- No late fees. Just do the math on this one alone and I think you'll see the value of using either one of these online services.

- Over 40,000 Movie Titles to choose from. Everything from the newest of the new releases to all of the classics.

- Free shipping both ways. To you and also on the return.

- Speaking of shipping, how about very fast delivery directly to your door. I get my movies within 1 or 2 business days.

- No long term contracts required. You'll like this one because you're free to cancel your membership anytime you choose.

- You get to keep each DVD or Game as long as you like. This is good because you have the freedom to watch your movies at your own pace. No more feeling like you have to watch it because it's due back on a certain date.

- For a very reasonable monthly fee you can rent up to 3 DVDs at a time as often as you like.

Both of these top tier service providers have done a great job of keeping the process simple. You simply sign up providing very basic information and make a list of the movies you want to see. Your movies will then begin to arrive postage paid in your mailbox in one or two business days. Like I said, crazy simple!

Once your movies arrive you have the opportunity to watch them at your leisure.

I don't know about you but too often I would end up paying more in late fees than I did for the actual movie. And when renting from my local store there just never seemed to be a good time to take them back.

These two major issues are completely gone when renting online.

Neither Netflix or Blockbuster charges a late fee of any kind. For me that alone makes renting online superior to the old way.

It gets even better though. When you're ready to send your DVDs and/or Games back you simply drop them into the pre-paid envelope you received with your delivery and mail them back.

As you may have gathered I'm sold on Online DVD Rental.

As long as the rental service providers keep things simple, as they certainly have so far, if you rent movies or games at all I don't see where there is anything not to like about this new way of renting them online.

Clyde Lee Dennis, a.k.a. "SmoothLee" has been bumping around on the web since 1999 and is a self described "Web Head, and Life long AVID music fan". Smooth Jazz Music in particular. In addition to writing CD Reviews for I Love Smooth Jazz.com he is also the Program Director, and can be heard during his daily radio show which airs on one of the internets most listened to smooth jazz radio stations, Smooth Jazz 24/7

Monday, August 25, 2008

The Elder Scrolls 4 Oblivion Cheat Codes For Xbox 360

Writen by David Allison

Super character

This trick requires access to Arcane University, a Chameleon spell, two rings, a necklace/amulet, any two pieces of armor (preferably a helmet and shield; you could use any armor for this, but you may want to enchant them with defensive magic later), five Grand Soul Gems with Grand Souls in them, and 8,000 gold. Go to the Chironasium (enchanting section) in Arcane University. Go to an enchanting stand and enchant the necklace, rings, and armor with a Chameleon spell using the Grand Soul Gems. Each enchantment gives you 20% Chameleon effect, so all five enchantments will make you 100% Chameleon, which is not only invisible but also allows you to attack, steal, open, and pick-up without being revealed. You can now steal from a shop without the shopkeepers doing anything. Your enemies will also just stand still unable to attack, allowing you to go into Sneak mode and attack for 4x to 6x damage, and pickpocket without consequence (except on guards who can catch you if you fail, but still cannot attack you if you resist arrest). -From: andre.morgan

Duplicate items

Equip a bow and any set of arrows, then draw your bow back. While it is drawn back, press B to go to the inventory screen. Select the arrows that you are using, then go to the item to be duplicated. Press X to drop the item, then leave the equipment screen and resume the game. The item that you dropped will be duplicated. You can pick up all the duplicates and use or sell them. The amount of copies of an item you make depends on how many arrows you have equipped. For example, 10 arrows allows 10 copies. This works with most, but not all, items and weapons. Note: Do not try to duplicate more than 250 copies of an item or the game may freeze.

Permanent enchantment

Use the following trick for duplication or a permanent enchantment. You can duplicate a drop-able item, and if that item is equipable with constant effect enchantments you can make them permanent. However, the item once made permanent cannot be re-equipped, but each enchanted item is different. You can use the "Duplicate items" trick to make as many as desired, then sell them. Use the "Duplicate items" trick with a bow an arrows to duplicate the items to make permanent. Equip one of the items you want to make permanent. There must be an unequipped version still in your inventory for this to work. Use the "Duplicate items" trick again; however, drop the unequipped version of the item you have equipped and want to make permanent. The equipped one and the others will drop and you will never be able to equip that item again, but if you check your stats the items bonuses will be permanent. You can duplicate anything that can be dropped, including Grand Soul Gems with Grand Souls captured.

This trick only works with wearable items. Take any wearable item with a magical enchantment that you wish to make permanent and use the "Duplicate items" trick to duplicate it twice so that you have two of that item. Pick up the item and equip one. While you are wearing that item, duplicate the one you are not wearing by at least four. Note: The number of arrows used determines how many copies are made. Both items will drop on the ground in stacks of two. You will now no longer be wearing that item, but will still have its effects. Note: These effects are permanent. Do not attempt this with any item with an effect you may want to remove later, such as Water Walking, Night Eye, etc.

Infinite health

Use the "Duplicate items" trick on a potion of strong health. Repeat the duplication to get the desired amount of potions. Open the inventory screen and go to the strong potion of health. Hold Y and quick link it to one of the Analog-stick directions. When you are low on health, just tap the hotkey direction to use a potion. When running low on health potions, repeat the duplication process.

Infinate recharge

Use the "Duplicate items" trick on a Soul Gem. Pick them all up. When an item is on low charge you can recharge it back to full without wasting money on Soul Gems or having to bother with soul trapping.

Infinite gold

Go to the Talos Plaza District of Imperial City and find a house owned by a man named Dorian (Dorian's House) in the southeast section of the district. Break into his house and find him. When he tells you to leave, kill him. Do not press X to loot him and take all. Instead, take each item individually, finishing with the gold, which will not run out once it hits 8 pieces. Just keep selecting the gold he is carrying and keep pressing A as usual. Do this repeatedly, and the number of gold pieces remaining will freeze when it gets down to 8 gold pieces. It will not go any lower, but will just keep giving you as much gold as desired. Note: After you break in and he tells you to get out, talk to him. Go to "Persuade" and bribe him a lot. After that, kill him. He will now have more money to loot, which makes it easier to get more faster.

Check out Cheat Code Central's The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Cheats & Codes for Xbox 360 page for more cheat codes, hints, tips, tricks, and our strategy guide for the game. For tons more cheats, reviews, previews, and much more for PS2, Xbox, PC, Xbox 360, GameCube, PSP, DS, GBA, check out Cheat Code Central.

Learning Basic Checkers Rules

Writen by Sky Joe

If you are among those who never learned how to play checkers, or perhaps need to brush up after not playing for many years, there are several good resources for learning basic checkers rules. Here are some ideas on where to look for information on checkers rules.

You probably have an expert on rules in very close proximity. Since checkers has been a favorite board game for many years, chances are one of your older relatives is intimately acquainted with the game and can quickly bring you up to speed on basic rules. If you do not have a relative close by who is proficient with checkers, you may want to extend your search to persons who attend your house of worship or people who are involved in the civic clubs where you currently hold membership.

If for some reason those contacts do not yield someone who is willing and able to teach you checkers rules, you might consider volunteering at a retirement home. Chances are quite good that one of the residents would welcome the chance to teach checkers to a willing pupil. Not only will you have the chance to learn checkers rules from someone who has played for years; you also get to enjoy the benefit of spending time with someone who can offer you access to memories and experiences that are not part of your life right now.

Should you be a little shy about asking someone to teach you basic checkers rules, there are a couple of other avenues you can take. Take a trip to your local library or bookstore and locate a book that contains instructions on playing checkers. There are several on the market to day that will take you step by step through the process. If you prefer to go online, there are some excellent how to sites that will walk you through the basics of checkers rules, complete with visual demonstrations.

Learning the basics of rules will not take a long time, and you will find yourself enjoying the game within a matter of hours.

For more information on the playing checkers online, learning checkers rules or getting checkers software, please visit the following website: Checkers Guide

Skyjoe is a well-known author, website publisher and owner of www.mygeneralknowledge.com. ©Skyjoe. All rights reserved. This article may be freely distributed as long as it remains unaltered inclusive of the active links and the copyright notice. No alteration is allowed without express written permission from the author.

Sunday, August 24, 2008

Video Game Violence What Do You Think About It

Writen by Daniel Punch

Ever since video game designers were able to put red pixels on their imaginary characters that had recently deceased, there have been people crusading against their subversive ways. The outrage at video games seems to be cyclic, fading very briefly before exploding into the public eye once more with renewed frenzy. The controversy seems to have sparked up again in recent times, with numerous crimes being blamed on the corruptive influence of video games. There have also been various "controversies" surrounding recent video games and their content in the areas of both violence and sexuality.

The first game to receive widespread criticism and media attention was the martial art fighting game "Mortal Kombat". This game included large spurts of blood emitted from attacks and also "Fatalities" that could be performed on stunned opponents after their defeat. These Fatalities were gruesome animation sequences showing the victorious player killing their defeated opponent in a vast variety of ways. Gamers revelled in this new experience and the controversy surrounding the violence caused mass hype that informed the less informed gamers that the game was out there. Consequently gamers played the new game just to find out what all the talk was about, thereby greatly increasing revenue.

One of the largest sparks of controversy has been the recent "Hot Coffee" modification for "Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas (GTA:SA)". This involved unlocking a sexually oriented mini-game that had been removed from the game before release, although evidently not from the source code. The creators of the game, Rockstar Entertainment, obviously realised that this particular part of the game was not appropriate for the video gaming public and removed access to it. An enterprising fan of the game found out and modified the original code to give access to the content once again. Lawsuits were brought against Rockstar for including such content in their game, although the validity of the lawsuit has to be questioned. If the game is simply purchased and played as intended by the developers, this admittedly tasteless and inappropriate mini game would never be encountered. It is not until the user-made modification is downloaded and installed that the player is able to access the content.

Regardless of who's to blame, "GTA: SA" was re-rated in America and banned from sale in Australia. Oddly enough the gratuitous and encouraged violence in the game went largely unnoticed in the wake of the "scandalous" sex scenes involving clothed, cartoonesque people.

When examined objectively almost all games contain a certain amount of violent content. The kid-friendly bright and colourful "Mario" games by Nintendo feature a character stomping on animated creature's heads. In fact the majority of games, even children's games, involve the protagonist crusading against an enemy horde of some sort and generally "disposing" of them in some manner, whether it be striking them with a weapon or body part (feet, hands, possibly a tail depending on the nature of the character). The only real stand out difference is that in a children's game the 'bad' characters will generally bounce backwards in a cute manner and explode with a humorous puff sound (or simply disappear) whereas in a game oriented towards older mature players, the characters are more likely to be (somewhat) realistic, spraying a gusher of red upon their demise.

Whenever some young person somewhere commits a violent crime these days it seems to get blamed on a video game, from "Duke Nukem" and "Quake" being accused for the Columbine High massacre, to a more recent incident involving a group of minors attributing their violent actions to the "Mortal Kombat" video games. Without any solid evidence either way it's hard to say whether or not video game violence actually has much of an influence on players. To really be sure you'd probably have to have a control group of isolated children that have never seen a violent movie or played a bloodthirsty video game. History does however show that brutal crimes were committed long before video games or even movies came into existence.

Children are quite easily influenced by something that they're excited about and I've seen this happen a lot. Playing a wrestling video game with a group of eight year olds often leads to the eight year olds screaming raucously and trying to pin each other down on the ground. Pre-teens will often punch and kick their way out of a cinema in terrible combat stances after having viewed a martial arts movie. The current content rating system in place is not geared towards consumer restriction; it is largely aimed at simply informing the public about what they are going to experience. Legal restrictions are not actually put in place until the higher, more severe ratings like in x-rated films. Parents, guardians, and society in general need to start taking an interest in who is viewing certain types of content. Instead of complaining about the entertainment a child is enjoying, the parent could be there at the beginning looking at the rating that is printed clearly on the packaging of all entertainment. A simple "I don't think that's suitable, how about this game? It has a lizard!" distracts the child a surprising number of times. In my experience, children genuinely just want people to take an interest in what they're interested in, not just murmuring indistinctly, "Yes dear, that's nice." as the child installs the newest violent game.

What about the children that are playing the games in the restricted ratings categories? The only way that they can even get the game into their possession is if a parent (or someone of legal age) purchases the game for the child, or if the store disregards the rating guidelines in place and sells it to them regardless. Either way the fact that a game's content has fallen into a minor's hands is not the fault of the game developer.

I'm not out to defend the integrity of artistic vision presented in video games as many other gamers are. Frankly there seems to me to be little artistic integrity in rendering blood that is ever more liquid in appearance. I do however enjoy playing some games that are quite violent in nature and in many cases the violent nature of the game increases my enjoyment. Video games are escapism, there's (arguably) no point in playing a video game that simulates something you can just walk outside and do (and yet sports games somehow consistently sell in large numbers... curious...). Interestingly I have never yet felt the overwhelming desire to break down into a kung fu stance and commit murder. Perhaps more important than simply banning questionable content in video games would be studying why this content is so appealing to today's society?

About The Author
Daniel Punch
M6.Net Web Helpers
http://www.m6.net

Pc Games Atari For Pc

Writen by Michael Russell

And then it happened.

The Atari 2600 craze died and with it all the great and not so great games that were produced, which came out to literally thousands of titles. At the time there were many who thought that the game craze itself was over.

Not quite.

Over the past several years, many of the Atari and Activision titles for the 2600 have been reborn for the PC. Fans of Space Invaders from the early arcade days and Atari days could now play their favorite game again. The question was, with new PC technology and how far we have come since those early days, would these games stand up? Would they play the same? If they did, would people realize just how crude they were? Would they care?

To get an answer to these questions you would have to ask for game players themselves and most likely if you asked 100 people you would get 100 different answers. The purpose of this article is more to understand why, in an age where we've developed games so complex and graphically stunning, we would want to play games that even during the time they came out were almost laughable.

Maybe it's nostalgia. Maybe we, as a race of flawed human beings, don't want to let go of our past. Maybe we just try to hang on and live out our teens just one more year, or month, or even day. Maybe there WAS something appealing about those old games that you just don't get in today's super techno games. Certainly if you take a small sample of the old Atari games that were updated for the PC, it is obvious that they did their best to retain the old look. In most cases they did. And if you plug in a joystick into your PC the actual playing experience is the same, or relatively close. Yes, some games didn't transfer as well as others. Some they didn't even bother to try because they were so bad to begin with. Others were intentionally updated. The reasons are unknown.

On thing is known for certain. If you were to go on the Internet and do a search for Atari 2600 for PC, you will find well over 100,000 listings. Many of the sites are reviews of the games themselves, of which there are countless ones. Then there are thousands of sites that sell many editions of games, each edition featuring a different selection of Atari 2600 titles. The choices one has is simple mind boggling. You could literally spend an entire day just researching Atari 2600 for PC games. That has to tell you something about the popularity of a game series that many people thought had died a long time ago.

Michael Russell

Your Independent guide to PC Games

Saturday, August 23, 2008

Xbox 360 Camera On The Way Soon

Writen by Ron Swerdfiger

The Xbox 360 camera was unveiled at last year's E3 alongside the system and it was shown that the camera would be used for a variety of purposes. Rumors are now spreading that Microsoft has shown the camera off to developers recently in hopes that they will use it to develop games via an Eye-Toy type experience or something even more advanced. If this holds true we could be using the camera in games within the coming few months!

The only purpose thus far that has been shown to developers it seems to show off the technology has been that of a video chat over Xbox Live. This is actually a cool idea because if you could use the camera in conjunction with a live arcade game, something simple like Chess, it could make for a relaxing social experience for the casual fan over Xbox Live.

The new camera is expected to be availble within the next few months.

Regardless one thing is for sure, the camera is on its way very soon and I would not be surprised if Microsoft shows off a few games to go along with it at this year's E3. Say cheese and get ready for the Xbox 360 News Camera!

For more news, check out our PS3 News site or our Nintendo Revolution site.

Friday, August 22, 2008

Flash Opens New Windows And Opportunities For Game Designers

Writen by Paul W Wilson

Flash is an interactive platform that has a powerful design and animation tool along with a dynamic scripting engine, bitmap rendering, as well as advanced video and audio playback. There are three main aspects: the player, the file format, and the authoring tool/IDE. Flash games can be developed for websites, interactive TV, as well as handheld devices. There is no need to adopt multiple programming languages to build games.

It is the universal tool that permits the development of multimedia driven complex games. Games means fast, furious, efficient with rich graphics.

Flash enables developers to build the most popular games for online gamers. It just needs to support:

• Rich engaging graphics.
• Smooth download of files from the net.
• A playback device that can interpret downloads.

There are three main areas: design, development, and hosting.

The first step is creation of graphics. One must use Fireworks as well as Freehand for this aspect. The tools are compatible and fireworks allows the addition of Java script to images.

The game development will be done in Flash by importing graphics created in Freehand and Fireworks. The graphics are then placed in Director the parent tool of Flash.

The next part, hosting, uses a Web server. Dreamweaver MX is the tool that will create Web pages to host the game.

And, finally Action Script is used to provide enhanced functionality.

Advantages:

• Integrates almost all features needed for developing a game. It is a great interactive tool.
• Can be used anywhere does not need additional software or plug ins.
• It is Mac friendly.
• Permits conversion from a full game to web version and vice versa.
• Low cost and free to distribute. Licenses for decoders MP3 and Sorensen Spark are included.
• Artists that can use flash easily are in plenty.
• Flash delivers broadcast quality images over the Internet.
• Permits embedding of game in power point for use in presentations.
• Plenty of information as well as guidelines can be accessed as well as understood by all –tutorials, articles, as well as blogs.
• The size of the game file remains small as the vector graphics and sound files are compressed.
• Learning Flash language is easy.
• Permits copy-paste to test components

There are traps one must be wary of and a few cons. Know the system well to maximize its use. There are plenty of tutorials inline that can be used as guides. Flash interface is ideally suited to both designer as well as developer, you can have fun while creating the game.

Flash is simple to use and a game can be developed in a few hours in a packaged form that can run on a PC, Mac, or Linux. One can make use of a browser or run the game as a stand alone.

Paul Wilson is a freelance writer for http://www.1888FreeOnlineGames.com, the premier website to play thousands of free online games including arcade games, action games, card games, flash games, strategy games, puzzle games and more. He also freelances for http://www.1888SoftwareDownloads.com.

Video Gamescreatively Igniting An Explosive Era

Writen by Wycliffe Williams

"The video game industry is entering a new era, an era where technology and creativity will fuse to produce some of the most stunning entertainment of the 21st Century. Decades from now, cultural historians will look back at this time and say it is when the definition of entertainment changed forever."

– Douglas Lowenstein, President, Entertainment Software Association

These prophetic words are well measured. They help to add fuel to the video game industry. Creative change linked with the almighty dollar will usher in another positive plank for family unity.

Video Games are here to stay. Children, their parents, their grandparents and their great grandparents have cast their lot. We're having fun solidly surfing a giant wave. A multi-billion dollar video game wave. We have not crested this wave yet. Hang on…

Here are a few of the main systems:

• Xbox 360

• PlayStation 2

• Game Cube

• Nintendo DS

• Sony PSP

Have you seen any of these badboys in action? They'll thrill you! The action is fast, scintillating and involving. That's the key term, involving. You cannot play these games without getting involved in the action.

I'll bet you haven't even thought that these video games have been used as educational tools for pilots, soldiers and surgeons? Yes, they're instructional as well as fun.

These are a few learning experiences you can obtain from playing these video games:

• problem-solving

• develop different strategies

• work within specific rules

• do things by trial and error

• multi-tasking

• understand risk-taking

• make quick-fire decisions

Have you considered investing your hard earned dollars into one of these game systems? You would be joining a huge throng of video game system diehards.

Video Games have not peaked yet. Looking to get a system for the family? Get it now to avoid disappointment. Grab this link Video Games

Thursday, August 21, 2008

Waiting For Authorization Problem Quake4

Writen by Bikramjit Singh

The following is a short but informative article about the major problem faced by the quake 4 game fans. The waiting for authorization problem occurs while connecting to a quake 4 server. Just follow the given steps and the waiting for authorization problem will be solved.

When you are stuck at the waiting for authorization screen, just do this. Press alt + enter. The game window will minimize. As the game window will minimize, its color will turn grey. When the color of the window turns grey just press alt + enter again. Now the game window will maximize and pass the waiting for authorization screen.

NOTE (press the alt + enter second time when the minimized window color is grey)

I think that will help a lot of quake4 fans. The real fun is in playing quake4 online. If you are not fast in this game you don't stand a chance. The most important part is that you should own a very high speed internet connection. I played it on a T1 connection, but still I had to face time lag. My bullets used to reach a little bit late. Rest the game's graphics are quite good and its fun. Single player version is also ok.

By Bikramjit Singh

(removing authors name in any case is prohibited)

Wednesday, August 20, 2008

How To Become A Better Backgammon Player

Writen by Levente Galambosi

When a novice online backgammon player enters an online backgammon site lobby the first time he might be a little overwhelmed by the multitude of game options available. Normally the player then just dives in where it seems to be the most attractive, little knowing that he very likely just started off wasting his time and money. Chances are that he'll soon be frustrated enough to give up the whole things. That's why it is important to do a proper evaluation of the available options and to have a clear plan of attack. In this article we'll have a look at how a novice backgammon player can significantly improve his backgammon skills and get a good return on investment.

The importance of tournament play

The key to long-term backgammon success is playing in tournaments. Online backgammon tournaments will teach you more in shorter time than regularily sticking to off-tournament matches. In a tournament you will fight for advancing further towards the finals, forcing and teaching you to focus and think of the long-term goal. The further you advance the higher the pressure gets and even world class players sometimes crack under the pressure. The general opinion is that a well-played real tournament match equals to 1.5 - 2 normal off-tournament matches. Therefore as a novice backgammon player you should start playing in tournaments since you sign up.

So, when you start playing in tournaments your development as a player will progress faster than if you stick to off-tournament matches. Obviously you need to read about backgammon strategies and put the theory into practice, just like in any other hobby or sport. However, you should be prepared to run at a loss in the beginning of your backgammon career. Because tournaments require more expensive buy-ins as opposed to off-tournament matches you will be loosing more. That's a paradox you just have to accept. If it is difficult to accept, trying looking at it as an investement for the future - after a certain point when you start winning, your earnings will also be higher than in off-tournament matches and soon your earnings will be higher what they would be if you wouldn't be playing in tournaments.

Which tournaments to follow?

Now that we have established the importance of backgammon tournament play both for your development as a player and for your earnings in the long run, it is time to discuss which tournaments you should be concentrating on and in which order. You can think of it as a progressively challenging training programme like the training programmes you would follow when you start going to the gym.

1. Sit and Go tournaments

You should start off with low buy-in, rating limited Sit and Go tournaments. These tournaments provide a very good environment to learn the basics of tournament play. You should focus on Swing tournaments or 3-point match Knockout tournaments if those are available. You should play against players close to your own rating, i.e. below 1600.

2. Sit and Go tournaments, no rating limit

Once you feel confident enough, try how it goes against players with ratings above 1600. They will provide you with enough challenge and you will be learning a lot from those tournaments - there is no need to attend higher buy-in tournaments.

At some point your rating could have dropped close to 1400, which is perfectly normal and also expected. When you start seeing a increasing trend in your rating (and earnings), it is a sign that it is time for you to move on to the next step.

3. Regular daily tournaments

Daily tournaments are the tournament backbone of every online backgammon site and this is where you can learn a great deal about real tournament play. Daily tournaments are a great way to participate in tournaments with tens of players with very small buy-in fees. Be prepared to spend a considerable amount of time playing in daily tournaments as here is where you'll be laying a basis for those big money tournaments in the future.

4. Combine tournament types

when you can take command of an online tournament match against an experienced player, your rating will likely be around 1700 or slightly higher. Now you should start combining the various tournament types. Go back to Sit and Go's, play in $5.00 - $20.00 buy-in tournaments, try out how you are doing in big Satellite and Special tournaments where the best players show up. You should, however, still maintain focus on the daily tournaments.

Note that you will definitely see many lower-rating players in big money tournaments while you will be staying away from them. But let those players waste their money - most of them won't even advance to a round where they will win back their expensive buy-in fee. Only once you have a real chance of going that far then it'll be the time to regularily play in those tournaments.

5. When loss turns into profit

When all has gone according to plan you should see more money flowing into your account than you loose. But be careful - don't get overconfident. In bigger tournaments you are likely to play against players who are real veterans of level you haven't played against yet. Stay very focused and don't make silly mistakes.

At this stage it doesn't really matter what types of tournaments you play in, but you need to follow one final rule: don't play regularily against weaker opponents. That'll just make you a weaker player and it will cost you money in the long run.

Conclusion

The key to succeed in online backgammon lies in tournament play. As a novice backgammon player you should start playing in tournaments as soon as possible. But in order to maximize the benefit of tournament play you should follow a gradually progressing "training programme", such as the one we have outlined in this article. Learning about backgammon strategies and theory should not be forgotten in the process, though. The combination of the two will make a better backgammon player and will reflect in your long-term earnings.

Beginner backgammon players can find useful the online backgammon tips and instructions at WinningBackgammon.info. Backgammon strategy articles and regular news updates make WinningBackgammon.info an interesting site for any backgammon enthousiast.

If You Could Play One Game For The Rest Of Your Life What Would It Be

Writen by J. Wuebben

You're an online game player. Probably an expert. Actually, you're probably an expert at a bunch of different games. And you probably enjoy playing lots of different games, especially the new ones. But, if you were to pick just one, just one game that you would have to play for the rest of your life – what would it be? Would it be an old school board game like Monopoly or Risk? Would it be Prime Suspects or Mah Jong Quest? Perhaps it would be a puzzle such as Big Kahuna Reef, or Fish Tycoon in an underwater adventure? Or maybe you're a Texas Hold Em fan. Whatever it is, you're probably very passionate about it. You play it a lot. But that's how you get to be good, right? It's also a great way to pass the time and just have some fun.

Web Games

Many people, especially those who aren't super sophisticated when it comes to online games, are just looking for a way to pass the time. These are the folks you may see playing the slots for 8 hours at the casinos. They enjoy games, but tend to like the simple ones, without a whole lot of strategy. Online card, arcade, and puzzle games provide lots of entertainment value for many people, everyday. As a bonus, many of these types of games are free to play on the Internet. These games run in a web browser, don't require much hardware, and work on almost any computer.

If you could play only one game for the rest of your life, would it be a web game?

Puzzle Games

These types of games are very popular. Why? Many of them are free, or have a free version. There are also a lot of these types of games out there. What are some of the better ones?

Jewel Quest: You match jewels and quest through beautiful Mayan ruins in dozens of mind-bending puzzles, while discovering hidden treasures and priceless artifacts.

Prime Suspects: In what other game could you interview suspects, solve puzzles, and find key clues? Not many. That's what makes Prime Suspects so cool. If you have a detective-like nature, you'll be good at this one.

Bejeweled 2: Innovative, non-violent, the classic game of gem-swapping. Sound interesting? The goal is to match gems and colors as quickly as you can. Kids and adults love this one.

If you could play only one game for the rest of your life, would it be a puzzle game?

Card Games

Card games are as hot as ever. They require skill, they're challenging and they're fun. Games such as Tik's Texas Hold Em and Super Poker Stars offer players three unique advantages. They offer the thrill of playing cards in a casino, there is no risk because there's no money involved and best of all, players can test their skills against other card sharks. Online games are often new creations, but these games are new interpretations on the classics.

If you could only play one game for the rest of you life, would it be a classic card game?

Simulation Games

By now, everyone has heard of The Sims. Simulation games have skyrocketed in popularity and for those gamers who love to create their own world, the options are endless. You can build a city, a world or an amusement park with mind boggling roller coasters. You can even go back in time and relive medieval battles. So what is the draw of these types of games?

The hook is that as the game progresses, it gets more intricate. Take Cinema Tycoon for example. Start off with a small cinema and as you manage concessions, purchases new hit movies and try to avoid "flops" you build your cinema into a true Mega-Plex. This game is fun for all ages and levels of gamers.

If you could only play one game for the rest of you life, would it be a simulation game?

Strategy Games

If you enjoy games that challenge the mind, perhaps strategy games like Risk II and Chessmaster Challenge are what you are looking for. These games require you to flex those mental mussels. Many of the classic strategy games are available to be played online. You can match wits with your intellectual counterpart in Russia and find out who truly is the Chessmaster! Sound like fun? It is.

3D graphics have brought a new level of realism to strategy games. These games throw you into the action as if you were actually there…deploy your forces, attack your foes and build your armies. Strategy games are typically designed for no more than 12 simultaneous players. Many of these games are free, or have a free version online.

If you could only play one game for the rest of you life, would it be a strategy game?

Game Show Games

You love to win; there is no question about it. Competition is in your blood. Well, then maybe you could play a game show game for the rest of your life. Maybe you want to play Family Feud, the fast-paced game based on the successful Family Feud TV game show! Beat the average score, or go head-to-head with a friend or an entire family! Maybe you are a rock & roll junkie, test your music knowledge (from the golden oldies to current top bands) with Rock & Roll JEOPARDY!

If you could only play one game for the rest of you life, would it be a game show game?

Summary

Well, what did you decide? Would your one game be Texas Hold Em or Family Feud? Would you choose to become a Cinema Tycoon or take the Chessmaster Challenge? Fortunately, you don't have to choose, but if you know what type of games you gravitate towards, perhaps you can uncover some new games that you never knew existed!

This article was written by Jon Wuebben. Jon writes select pieces about online games & game download web sites played on sites like http://www.iWin.com

Tuesday, August 19, 2008

How To Boost The Performance Of Your Pc To Play Video Games

Writen by Gregg Hall

Many people these days use their computers for a variety of things, not just work or research but for fun as well. You know that you like to play computer games, but if you are going to play them you should consider getting the accessories to make your gaming experience better and increase the performance of your game playing.

Most of the games that you play will be much easier to play with a joystick. If you are serious at all about optimizing your game playing you need to go for a good one here. There joysticks available that will include up to eight programmable buttons and will also include gaming software that will even allow you to program it to particular games. Get one that is easily plugged in, via USB preferably and one that allows for multiple adjustments.

If you are playing games on your computer a good mouse is not optional, choose a wireless optical mouse to get the best performance. Having an optical mouse will help give you an edge over those who don't have one. Again one that hooks up via USB is preferable, but be aware that since these types use batteries they will need to be replaced frequently.

Some of the console games will require a gamepad and many of those you get for your computer will be set up identical to the ones for the console game players. Make sure it fits well in your hands, look for a USB connection and take the time to play with them in the store if you can to get a feel for which one you like the best.

A high quality speaker system with at least two speakers and a subwoofer are a must have for gaming. I am not saying you have to buy the most expensive set of speakers you can find, but you need quality to be able to get the most out of the gaming experience. The difference in the sound between average speakers that come with a computer and a set of more high performance gaming oriented speakers is night and day.

You may also want to include a headset, especially if you are playing late at night and are sharing your home with someone, or you still live at home. With a headset you can play all night and no one will know, until they try to wake you in the morning!

You must have lots of RAM. That's short for random access memory of course, and if you have any intention of playing games with intense graphics, and I know you do, then don't cut yourself short here. This is a simple fact, more RAM is better period.

Gregg Hall is an author and internet marketing consultant living in Navarre Florida. Find more about Video Games and Video game accessories at http://www.videoandcomputergamesplus.com

Essence Runescape

Writen by Robert Bell

For those of you with limited RuneScape skills, essence running is an excellent way to earn money or runes. Even though there are numerous ways to essence run, it is all based on one basic concept. Because runecrafters can only carry 23-27 essences at a time, they are not able to accumulate very much runecrafting experience very quickly. As a runner, you are there to help others gain runecrafting experience. By doing so, you will be able to earn runes or cash.

There are various items needed for essence running. These include:

Boots of lightness  No weapons or armor  27 Pure Rune Essence  Something, such as Law Runes, to take up inventory space and therefore quicken the banking process

So how do you get started? Check out forums. There you will find people looking to hire essence runners. Once you find a potential employer, here are several things to keep in mind:

How much does the employer pay?  Are you provided with essences?  Are there bonuses available?  How many runners do they have?  How many essences are required per run?  What is the employer's runecrafting level? (More runes can be made from the same amount of essences in certain levels.)

In order to essence run successfully, you must trade the essence unnoted. It is also essential that you trade them at the correct temple. Remember to travel light. This means lightweight armor, boots of lightness, and bare essentials in your inventory.

Also, common courtesy will go a long way. Be sure to thank the crafter who traded with you. It is, after all, a free service. In order to avoid being neglected, only say "law me plz" if you are inside the Altar and no one is trading with you when you are to the side. Also, having two pouches does not mean that people will trade you twice. It just slows down the process. Finally, if you are inside the Altar, stand to one side. Avoid the line where the crafters are.

When earning runes, it's important to know how you can use the type of rune you are running. First, there are four elemental runes: air, water, fire and mind. These are used in spells. Airs are generally best for lower level mages, as they are used for offensive spells. Higher-level mages will benefit most from fire, as they are used in god spells. Body runes are good for stat reduction spells. You will generally use only a few cosmic runes, as they have limited uses. Natures are among the most useful runes because they are used for high alchemy. Lastly, law runes are best for pure mages.

Armed with a few basics, you can try your hand at essence running and maybe you'll learn your own tricks of the trade.

Robert Bell is an editor of 'Runescape Money Tips'. You can find more articles at http://www.runescapemoneytips.com

Monday, August 18, 2008

Video Games Playstation 2high And Lonely At The Top

Writen by Wycliffe Williams

When the Video Games Playstation 2 was released back in 2000, there was much anticipation in the air. It piggybacked on the groundwork of its pathfinder predecessor, Playstation.

Playstation 2 stormed the video game market and floored Nintendo and Sega. Playstation 2 sits high and lonely at the top of the home video games league for the system with the ability to play back over 1,600 games.

In addition, Playstation 2 has the widest selection of video game titles ever. Some of its most popular titles include:

• Grand Theft Auto

• Gran Turismo

• Final Fantasy

• Medal of Honor

• Metal Gear Solid

• Resident Evil

• Tekken

• Madden NFL

• Crash Bandicoot

• Sly Cooper

• And hundreds of others.

Listed below are some of the 'tricks' Playstation 2 can do standing on its head:

• play commercial DVDs and CDs

• two controllers

• multi-tap connectivity for up to eight simultaneous players

• online connectivity

• separate network adaptor

• separate 20GB hard drive

• wireless controllers

• driving controllers

• and Eye Toy a device used in virtual reality games.

With all of that on the dashboard there can't be room for much more. But no, Sony promises to outdo itself with Playstation 3. Sony refuses to become a bridesmaid. Second best just will not do in their camp.

Here are a few things that Sony expects to deliver with Playstation 3:

• higher processing speeds

• more powerful graphic capabilities

• lifelike, cinematic-quality computer-generated graphics.

• PS3 will play back CDs, DVDs, PS2 video games, and PlayStation One video games.

• Sony promises to make a media center of your living room

• new video games on Sony's new proprietary Blu-ray disc

• the Blu-ray disc can hold more than five DVDs worth of content

• online capability

• wireless connection to the PSP

• support up to seven game controllers

• and finally, exciting and stunning new video games whose release are lined up to coincide with the release of Playstation 3.

We are the beneficiaries of a video game war that has spilled over into our living rooms. Enjoy the ride while you can.

Video Games Playstation 2 has certainly raised the bar. Do you have the best titles for your family fun this year? Grab them here to avoid disappointment Video Games Playstation 2.

Ps3 Will The 499 599 Price Tag Hurt The Ps3

Writen by Mike Street

As I'm writing this, Sony is still on top of the video game world. With over 100 million PS2's sold, we all have one. I play my PS2 daily and I have a PSP. But after the price announcement at E3 I don't know if I'll be able to afford to stay with Sony on the next-gen bandwagon. A $499 price tag means that if you ask for that for Christmas 2006 then THAT"S ALL YOU'RE GETTING! No action figures, no clothes, nothing else but the PS3.

And then tack on a game or two to that and you're looking at asking your mom and dad to shell out almost $700 for your Christmas. i don't think Sony is looking at who their core market is. The PS3 is now like buying a Lexus. It looks nice on the outside. It has pretty games, but are they going to be that fun out of the gate? And with the new Dual Shake controller which from reports was added two weeks before E3, will it be all that? Or are we buying into a over-priced lemon?

So if you want a PS3 you better start saving ALL your pennies, beg your mom daily, and start eating cheese and crackers for lunch.

Sony's top guy, Ken Kutaragi, even goes as far to say ""It's probably too cheap."

Here are his words of wisdom, as translated by consumer website IGN:

"This is the PS3 price. Expensive, cheap — we don't want you to think of it in terms of game machines. Because the PS3 is like nothing else."

"For instance, is it not nonsense to compare the charge for dinner at the company cafeteria with dinner at a fine restaurant? It's a question of what you can do with that game machine. If you can have an amazing experience, we believe price is not a problem."

"When we announced the PlayStation price, it was said to be expensive. Same for the PlayStation 2. However, when released, both had sales that were unthinkable for previous game machines. This is because both offered experiences that could not be had on previous game machines."

"With the PS3, you can have next generation game experiences that could previously not be experienced — things like next generation graphics and various services via the network. And, as with the PS and PS2, we believe people who like games will, without question, purchase it."

So let us know what you think? Do you think the PS3 is over priced? Will you get one at launch or will you wait until the price has gone down alot?

Mike Street is a pop culture critic and owner of http://www.GreasyGuide.com This site is read daily by thousands of people and has been featured in various publications. He is also Executive Editor for http://www.ResidentGamer.com

Sunday, August 17, 2008

Video Game History Do You Remember Pac Man Space Invaders And Super Mario Brothers

Writen by J. Wuebben

Of all the things that the 1970's produced, there are few that made as big of a cultural impact as video games. There's no question about it: video games have been a significant force in society and one of the most popular leisure pursuits. Chances are if you're under the age of 40, you played them, some of us a lot. There was Atari, Intellivision and Colecovision. Don't forget Sega and Nintendo. Today there are web sites that allow you to download free online games.

And if you remember those days of the late '70's and early 80's, you recall that the games relied on graphic improvements and better ways of shooting the enemy. It was more or less a solitary pursuit. With the rise of the Internet and online games however, lots of things changed, including the ability to download games and playing online games, making games a more social activity, with lots of players, or opponents playing each other from different countries. This may be the biggest change – and the latest benefit that games have offered the world.

But what about the early days? How did it all start and what were the video games that defined the era? The Innovators

Many people think that Pong was the home game that started it all, but really it was Magnavox and their "Odyssey" system in 1972. Although it was very simple, it was still the first. It had twelve simple games with graphic overlays. However, there was lots of room for improvement, and that's where Pong came into play.

Nolan Bushnell created Pong, along with Al Alcorn, the founder of Atari. Rumor has it that when the prototype was tested at a California bar, the machine broke down after two days, because it was so popular. The next logical step was to create a home version. So, one year later, Atari released Pong, complete with built in paddles, and a speaker. Of course, Pong was a huge success and represented a new stage in the evolution of gaming. Over sixty Pong knock-offs would be produced, but Atari dominated the market.

Next was the implementation of the microprocessor, which the entire industry adopted. As a result of this, more complicated systems could be developed. These systems produced groundbreaking and innovative graphical and auditory effects that had never been seen before. Consumers were eating it up. The industry was on fire. In 1981 alone, five billion dollars were spent on video arcade machines and another billion dollars was spent on home video game systems. Atari's VCS/2600 system remained the dominant player through 1982, when the gaming market experienced a crash.

What were some of the great games? How about Pac Man? Pac Man, the yellow blob that ate up dots and avoided squid-like ghosts, was a worldwide sensation and probably the biggest game of all time.

Space Invaders was another incredibly popular game. In fact, it really marked a turning point for arcade games, bringing them out of bars and into family friendly places like shops and restaurants. The premise of Space Invaders was to stop an alien invasion. This simple formula went on to become the most successful arcade game of all time.

Then there was Super Mario, which was huge as well. It involved an Italian anti-hero who was deliberately designed as a character that everyone could relate to. Soon thereafter came Zelda, Metroid, and other classics. Rise and Fall of Atari

Atari was the hottest thing in the gaming world in the early '80's. Today, they are a relic of past glory. So what happened? Atari made some bad decisions, and although it's a little complicated, it's helpful to understand the situation. At that time in the computing world, magnetic mediums were implemented in the data storage used in Arcade machines. These mediums allowed for a higher memory capacity than ROM cartridges.

In 1982, Atari had the option to include a disk drive in their systems. The price difference would have been nominal, and the memory capacity would have been significant. Atari, however, thought that magnetic media was too "fragile" for the consumer to adequately handle. Atari's "concern" for the customer backfired on them. In the previous years, there had been a very fine line separating arcade game quality from home game quality. With arcades utilizing storage capacities ten to forty-five times larger than home systems that fine line became a chasm. Arcade games seemed to be evolving exponentially, while home systems seemed "stuck in a time warp."

The public quickly became uninterested in video game specific consoles, and sales plummeted.

This would mark the end of Atari's reign of the video game market. The Rise of the New

In 1984, everything changed. The reason? Two innovations: The reduction in cost of Dynamic RAM (DRAM) chips which allowed more memory, and the production of higher power 8-bit processors, which lowered the prices of the previous chips. Sega, a new player in home gaming systems, entered the console market with their Master System 2. The Sega Master system would sell very well, but its success would be limited.

The other key player was Nintendo of Japan. The genius of Nintendo was their marketing prowess, as they poured millions into advertisements. These advertisements hit consumers at the perfect time, as evidenced in their sales. In fact, Nintendo couldn't manufacture enough systems to keep up with demand. After all was said and done, the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) would become the highest selling system in history. They would also become the most notorious, as they were involved in the intimidation of retailers, competing companies, and other suppliers and partners.

Over the next five years Sega and Nintendo would battle for dominance, going back and forth. The consumer definitely benefited from this rivalry.

Today, it's between PlayStation 2, the Xbox and the GameCube. Xbox has taken the step to merge the past and present, where Xbox "Live Arcade" is a console system that has a "download-like" characteristic where you can buy games via the console itself. One thing in the video game industry will always remain: the classic games of yesterday were great games, helped define an era, and will always be fun.

This article was written by Jon Wuebben. Jon writes select pieces about online games & game download web sites played on sites like http://www.iWin.com.

Saturday, August 16, 2008

How To Burn Downloaded Movies To Psp

Writen by Emma Drosy

Many people know that it's possible to watch movies on their PSPs. But most don't know how to burn downloaded movies to PSP. The good news is, it's not a complicated procedure. With your PSP, you can burn downloaded movies whenever you like – and it's not hard at all.

When you want to know how to burn downloaded movies to PSP, the first thing you need is a computer with an Internet connection, and your PSP. In most cases, the movie you download will not be compatible with your PSP. To burn downloaded movies to PSP, you'll need some software to convert downloaded movies into something that your PSP can play.

This is the first step of how to burn downloaded movies to PSP – get some conversion software. The good news is, this software is easy to find on the Internet. You can download this sort of software for free, and it's quick and easy to use. Find some software that you like and that's easy to use. Don't be afraid to experiment with it, to see how easy the conversion process is. This is how to burn downloaded movies to PSP.

Once you have your conversion software, the question of how to burn downloaded movies to PSP is answered. You simply convert the downloaded movie to you want to burn and transfer it to your PSP. You can watch movies any time, any where with your PSP – and it only takes a few minutes to burn downloaded movies to PSP. You'll find lots of different software packages you can try on the Internet.

Want to know how to burn downloaded movies to PSP? Well, now you do. All it takes is a great movie, your PSP, and some free conversion software. Then, you'll be watching all the movies you want all the time. The only way to burn downloaded movies to PSP is as quickly and as easily as you possibly can.

http://www.PSPdownloadheaven.com - For more info About PSP downloads

Ten Things You Should Know In Video Games

Writen by Gab Thom

BloodRayne | It's Zero Hour | Midasplayer | The latest in online gaming | Computer Games

You are not an hardcore person in playing video Games and if you want to know the facts which I set hereunder, there are many attraction in playing video which I may share an idea to those wish to play video games:

1. Two giant video games company, that is ATARI and SEGA having its own unique historical. Why unique? Because ATARI is a company formed in United States Of America but was only using its Japan name, while SEGA means Service Games a company formed in Japan as its Headquarters. Was founded in 1954 by David Rossen an American National. This man is an Ex- army who fought during Korean war. Names of those wellknown person who founded SEGA after Rossen is OKAWA and HIDEKI SATO.

2. Many Japanese language were used in video Games Industry. Three Japanese langguage very popular that is ATARI were taken from Japan Go Games which has the same meaning as "check" ( Syamat ) in playing chess. Nintendo is another video games giant company "Good Luck" which they belief will bring them to heaven. KATANA is a console Video Games produced by SEGA in 1998 which has it meaning "Sword".

3. Nobody expert that sony the first to produce Radio Transistor which is now a video Games manufacturer number one. In 2002 Sony dominated the world market in video games followed Nintendo and Microsoft. It started in 1995 from their first product named playstation. About three billion video games were sold through out the world.

4. Not only the songs were listed as Evergreen, Playing video games is not excluded. Two video player has it "Evergreen" where people playing without limitation of time that is PACMAN and Tetris. PACMAN were produced by Namco in 1980 having its verses as M/S PACMAN only to be played in House. SUPER PACMAN were targeted in Japanese Market and PACMAN PLUS (New Verses) using Coca Cola Tin as a new bonus replacing the Original bonus using fruits. Tetris were introduced in 1989 when it was sold out by Nintendo through it product called Game Boy. Very unique, Tetris invented by Rusia and at the same time dominated by the United States Of America and Japan. Both Games were very popular without considering its status, ages and peoples in General.

5. Sega is always in frontline in manufacturing Video Games though it has failed to promote its marketing. As an example, SEGA has first introduced in the world playing video by using technology 16-bit, which is known as Genesis in 1989 that were failed to overcome the market when Nintendo introduced SUPER NES PACKAGE (Nintendo Entertaintment System) on the same year. In 1995 SEGA once again in frontline when its invented video player by using technology 32-bit SATURN but was later being "Cut Off" by Sony when its Playstation product were introduced in the market on the same year.

6. Although SEGA cannot overcome worldwide marketing but at least the "Tiredness" were paid when its another product DREAMCAST were selected as the most best Inovative product in 1999 by POPULAR SCIENCE MEGAZINE. This is because Dreamcast were the first console that can be played online through Telephone. This System is known as SEGA NET allowing Players all over the world playing through ONLINE.

7. Nintendo ever made analysis jointly with other world video equipments producers. As an example, Nintendo has jointly with SGI (Silicon Graphic Inc.) in producing player to be used with console N64. Nintendo also has jointly with IBM and produce console Gamecube in 1999.

8. Although ATARI were not known at this time, but its name were famous in the end of 1970's and through out year 1990's. Playing console Pong were best selling item 1975 while Konsol 2600 identified as the longest ever in market in 1977 until 1990. Colour system Playing video were the product of ATARI, the first in 1989 and were known as LYNX.

9. Game Boy player were the product of Nintendo very successful in video Games history where 100 millions unit were sold worldwide since it was introduce in Global market in 1989. Nintendo also invented Communication System which is known as MOBILE ADAPTER GB allowing customers Communicating Game Boy to cellular Telephone and also allowing customer playing game online and also opening Email anda transfer of File.

10. Playstation 2 were the product of Sony in year 2000, and it is believed that the first Console using technology DVD.

For Further Informations about GAMES, Please visit this website, http://www.game2u.cjb.net

Friday, August 15, 2008

Cloud Laser Art

Writen by Lance Winslow

A new art form in the future will be CLA. Cloud Laser Art. People can go to a place where there are laser units, sit out side in a small shielded area and draw on the clouds. It would be fun and a great form of self expression, which would make humans very happy. We know that mankind likes to use the natural environment for self expression from cave drawings to rock piles near road ways and graffiti on rock formations. The idea of drawing on clouds is much better, because the cloud eventually dissolves and like an etch-a-sketch is ready to start over. This will be similar to what happens after Ice Carvings, Ice Sculpting is alive and well in North America. We have all heard of Sand Castle building and contests, which go on around the world.

Often you will watch kids throw rocks into a glass clear pond or lake. They will throw one rock in and then another and say; "Okay, those are the eyes." Often people star up into the clouds and try to imagine a face, shape or resemblance to something in the 3D physical world. We have often seen pictures where the clouds appear in the shape of Jesus or a face and everyone calls it a miracle. Many people gaze up at the clouds and attempt to allow their minds to find a familiar shape or form. One might call this a frame burst from the brains memory and the mind fills in the rest and a seemingly regular cloud takes on the imagination and a new meaning. An interesting sub topic could be this article on visual stimulation and the brain:

http://worldthinktank.net/wttbbs/index.php?showtopic=276

http://worldthinktank.net/wttbbs/index.php?showforum=28

People are fascinated by these coincidences. Rock formations often look like people from certain angles. The fallen "Old Man on The Mountain" was one such anomaly. Today we look to Mars and see faces in sediment and erosion features.

http://www.ascrocco.it/home/img/sf_desk/ar...o_marseface.jpg

You will have to admit this looks pretty real, so either we are not the only species which re-designs our natural surrounding or our mind automatically is filling in the blank, either way since kids, teens and adults do this and we find this interesting, it is an innate tendency and therefore a relevant idea to promote weather control research and manipulation, what better way to find research dollars than through entertainment? This is something man has done for thousands of years. Some obvious examples are the Sphinx in the Valley of the Kings, cave paintings. We have heard of some famous stone artists, who claim they can see the inner sculpture within a stone before they start, as were comments by Michael Angelo. Freeing the statue inside. Today we have the famous rock carvings of Crazy Horse, which is nearly completed.

Why not put it on a cloud also? It is possible you know? Weather control, cloud art, etc. Mother Nature often does it for us, but if we focus our energies on controlling heat and light within a cubic artificial grid of air, then we will be able to control the clouds completely.

Art is certainly interesting and our obsession with nature and art is interesting in that it seems to be an innate need of mankind to be able to control his environment and to provide some order to the complexity born out of simplicity, which we see everywhere, a concept that Steven Wolfram would most certainly agree. Los Alamos is doing just that and soon will be able to do it on a larger scale with super computers. This will entail lots of number crunching, but well worth the energy and time and money to develop. We maybe able to control not only the weather but stop Hurricanes too.

As we learn to control the weather for purposes of drought mitigation, famine and disease control, feeding peoples of the world thru abundant agriculture yields, flushing and controlling environmental pollutants or even giving us an edge on war planning, defensive barriers or safety during assaults, this technology to a lesser degree will be used as art.

Many things that come to be in the way of innovation are funded thru entertainment, war or the mother of invention (necessity). Certainly as we look at the innovations in TV (high definition), Digital Displays (plasma screens), Transportation (race cars), General Hobby Aviation (composites, ultra-lights, exploits of Dick Rutan), Virtual Reality (theme parks, animation, portable mini-simulators).

we see that entertainment can provide the money flows to increase the speed at which these things come to market and the speed at which they are adopted by the users and thus entertainment has always been a quick way or short cut to the future inventions of mankind. The list is so long in fact in the area of art and entertainment and the innovations brought forth that it might be considered the largest single factor towards the contributions to the forward progress of mankind. Necessity as previously mentioned and War and Defense being close seconds. Art should never be discounted as it is generally coupled with entertainment and imagination and let's not forget the words of Albert Einstein on imagination.

"Imagination is more important than knowledge..."

Is it possible that art can be the lead in to weather control? For instance drawing designs in the clouds instead of painting "I Love you Charlene" on a Hwy over pass cutting thru rural Alabama, Mississippi or Georgia in John Dear Green, would be something of value as a way of self expression. A portable laser cloud drawing device could also be mounted in a semi truck if not a fixed location site for tourists or expressionists with a few extra bucks. A semi truck mounted unit could be hired to write a computerized message on the clouds for events, parties, etc. At a fixed site people would come for miles just to sit and watch what someone would write today. You can learn a lot from cloud watching.

You can learn about life, weather, flows of nature and you can unleash your imagination. Manipulating the clouds and localized weather can be done with modern and current technologies. This concept is simple really in terms of physics. The truck moves to the center of where the cloud will be and send up ELF waves and creates a small Terminal Gradient Cloud, then drives about 2 miles away and has a design already made on the computer and approved by the buyers of the message: "Congratulations Graduating Class of West Point" or "God Bless America and our Troops" when as they de-plane or get off a ship. Great for weddings, bar mitzvah, country fair or you be the judge. In areas of big events people could pay to write their own message on the computer and the laser cuts the cloud and shades in the design or words and letters.

This is simple and not much different than the cutting of vinyl lettering by computers used by modern day sign makers. Very simple, using a 3-D program which knows the power intensity levels, based on the distance which is measured by laser which senses the moisture content in the clouds based on the distance from the device. On one side of the semi truck is a chemical laser and the other side another, when combined at exactly the right distance at very low power settings they interact in various amounts, which have been designed into the computer program coinciding with the amounts of energy and chemical needed to dissolve the cloud. Since the Lasers are chemical based even though quite low, color could also be added and chemicals normally found in atmospheric make-up, thus no harm no foul with environmentalists. This form of art is not too dissimilar to the smoke signal communication of the Native American Indians, the only difference it is done with modern technology and therefore the versatility is so much greater.

Once the design is entered into the computer on a CadCam type program or graphic art program it is sent to the laser system and it starts pulsating the lasers under extreme accuracy using sophisticated algorithms and data sets. After the system is built and configured it is ready to go and during transportation the laser heads and chemicals are stored at proper temperatures in stable tanks. And remember art is not the only use for this, for instance see some ideas below. Now you must note at the WTT we like to have a little fun and the night we discussed this at a local coffee shop in Springfield, MO we definitely were in a comedy mood with a touch of sarcasm. However these ideas will make you think and isn't that the point of this exercise? Sure you will get a chuckle out of it also we did. The World Think Tank is a lot of fun.

A. ) For advertising things could be written in the clouds too. "Drink Coke," "Fly Delta, but Hurry! We need the money," "Vote for Dog Catcher, NJ Former Governor," "CT former governor runs for Hartford County Auditor," "Gray Davis for Public Treatment Facility Director." We all know aerial advertising is big business, look at the Blimps, Skywriters, etc.

B.) ….For safety, things could be written in the clouds during rush hour. "Mixing Bowl" four hour wait, use different route, "HWY 1" three hour wait go back to work, you are better off there? "Free Parking on 405 to La Cienega use alternate." Bridge out ahead. New York Toll Way Fees raised today to $24.86 please have exact change ready to prevent delays, no refunds?" Just write it in the clouds, since you will be looking up praying to your god for break in traffic for this cluster muck you have to drive in everyday? Perfect solution, with an artistic flair? But in all seriousness you can see the benefits, "Dense Fog Ahead, slow down, multi-car pile-up, freeway closed all traffic exit at mile 122." In Montana during deer migration, "Watch out for Deer, Do Not Eat Road Kill" Public Service announcements are often put on Blimps:

C.) For big events; "Use Shuttle at Parkway for NASCAR event, Parking $5.00." "Olympic Check Point, have ID ready." "Democratic National Convention Ahead, Lots of parking available." "Cody WY Nightly Rodeo, 7 PM." But these of course are merely words on clouds, for the RNC they might want a Giant American Flag? The DNC might want a big tree with a couple of guys hugging it? You see big events can stay in the spirit of things and get out the true message. NASCAR might want a holographic design of Dale Earnhardt at the Daytona Speedway before the event. Blue Angels might wish to have a message about "Fly Navy" with a picture of an F-18 or JSF on the cloud for the crowd?

D.) For the People; Perhaps a Smog alert warning to warn people in Los Angeles due to a temperature inversion that day. In NY during Labor Day, perhaps a "High Terror Alert" in red? During the election, "Do Not Forget to Vote Today" in Florida with a reminder of how to press the right button in the computerized voting machines? On the beaches in San Diego, Fort Lauderdale, the Keys, Santa Monica, "Solar Flair Today, Use Sun Screen." After Hurricane Charley, "USAA and State Farm go to MLK Jr. High School GYM," "Relief assistance: FEMA and Salvation Army at Civic Center Auditorium." "New Mobile Homes For Sale; Tornado Magnet IV Custom Deluxe on sale, financing available, OAC." "Asteroid to Hit Earth Tomorrow, Run."

E.) For National Security; Border Patrol, "You are being tracked by automated aircraft, turn back or you could be shot or killed" In Spanish of course. For USMC, "Dear Iranian Insurgents, give up or you will be killed in 12 seconds." For US Navy, "This is a blockade, turn around now or you will be sunk." For US Army Recruiting; "Keep America Green, Join the Army." DHS; "Today's Threat Level is Green." Psych Wars: "This is Allah, you have been bad, go home and do not return."

Cloud Laser art could do all these things much cheaper and safer from the ground and also such a new idea would gather much interest and the word of mouth of any message or image would travel quickly. CLA or Cloud Laser Art is possible and fairly easy to do, we currently have the technologies to do this, and it makes sense. This is the ultimate in self-expression and can be used for entertainment, safety, homeland security, big events and even advertising if used in good taste.

Cloud Sculpting is the next logical progression of this idea, where you could make a cloud in the shape of a dog, cat or a dolphin. Perhaps you might want to make a UFO out of the clouds to see how many people call in during the annual UFO conference in Las Vegas? Think of the PR for the city, such a publicity stunt would certainly draw a crowd.

Although they might rather have you inside the casinos spending your money than out on the street corner looking up in the sky just in time to get hit by a middle-eastern taxi cab, shuttle bus or limo driver? In this age of International Terrorism perhaps we ought to all pay attention to what's happening in front of us and leave the cloud watching for recreational times?

Lance Winslow

Want To Play A Killer Video Game

Writen by DeWayne Strickland

One of the greatest video arcade games was "The House of The Dead" and the excitement of shooting your way out to stay alive was intense! It is good to see hot video games turning into movies, such as Resident Evil and Silent Hill. One movie in particular has a powerful gory twist, when it comes to game playing. The new movie "Stay Alive" will take you to a whole new level of gaming, if you can stay alive! Do you like creepy video games where your life is on the line?

It was just a matter of time before a movie came out that took you into the game world for real! Think of the last game that you played and be glad you did not die in reality. Imagine the pressure of a video game pushing you to win, or you will end in a bloody death! Sounds like fun until you see some red eyes coming out of the darkness to steal your soul!

"Stay Alive" starts out as an interesting game, but there should have been a clear warning, when you have to chant something! The chant in the movie opens up a portal for the main killer of the game to take your life. Once in the game you can use roses to stop the attacker, but you have to be quick.

The killer in the game is a mysterious lady who does not think twice about running you over with a horse and carriage. She does not wince at stabbing large scissors in your neck. You have to feel badly for the people who first play this game, because they never had a chance to see what was coming. Only the people playing later on can put the pieces of the puzzle together. It is after seeing one person die after another, that the cast of "Stay Alive" gets serious.

This movie has a strong Gothic touch and the mysterious lady killer in the game loves blood. You will get a sense of a vampire blood lust in this movie. Hutch O'Neill(Jon Foster) decides to go to a plantation that is exactly like the one in the video game. While at the plantation he finds a rude awakening. The plantation is not only just like the game, but the master of the house has been killed.

The small group that remains has gathered knowledge about the twisted and sick lady killer in the game. They find out she is kept alive by draining and soaking her body in young girls blood. The trick is getting to the tower that holds her body and killing her. The one way they can kill her is by using nails, but even that ultimately fails. I will let you find out what really kills the Lady of Blood by watching the movie.

Swink Sylvania(Frankie Muiz) plays a geek who cannot shut his mouth, but has a greater understanding of what is going on then anyone else. Swink Sylvania(Frankie Muiz) turns out to be a very important person in this movie, and without him things would have been gory for the two still alive. The movie will give you a sense of 'Hell Raiser' meets the demon eyed blood lady.

The movie really was not that bad and the story line was interesting, for a creepy video game come to life! Video games have gained so much popularity and it is easy to get caught up in the game. Once you start playing, time goes by so fast and you forget what is going on around you. Video games are a nice escape from reality, just as long as no one gets killed!

The next time you are in the video store, take a good look at what is on the shelf. Will you be playing some Madden football or will you be fighting for your life in the streets? Maybe that one creepy video game you see has been calling your name! Either way, it is fun for a bunch of friends to bring over their video game consoles and see who comes out the winner.

Remember with "Stay Alive", you die in the game, then you die for real!

DeWayne H. Strickland has been a Film Freak since the time he could walk. He is a crazy movie review critic in long term therapy. Learn How to Seduce Women, with Almost "Hypnotic Control" and "Accuracy" at: http://www.moviedownloadmatrix.com