Actress Megan Fox, star of the “Transformers” movies and one of Hollywood's current “It” girls, will be on Xbox Live today at 6 p.m. to challenge owners of the “Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen” video game to multiplayer matches.
To play, you'll need to be an Xbox Live Gold member; be online by 5:30 p.m. and send a request to Fox's gamertag: “Megan Fox 2009.”
You can get more info at xbox.com/gwfme ganfox .
During the day, new downloadable content – including an additional difficulty level – will be made available.
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Nintendo Wii Sports Van Stops At Concord Mills
Nintendo's "Wii Sports Resort" interactive tour is stopping at Concord Mills today through Sunday. It will allow visitors a free, hand s-on experience with the game, which has sold more than one million copies less than a month since its launch July 26.
Sports Resort is a collection of easy-to-play sports games, such as basketball and table tennis. They take advantage of the Wii's remote, which you can use as if you're swinging a bat or racket, or make a throwing motion to t oss a ball.
The mobile tour will be set up in the Concord Mills' Food Court from noon to 9 p.m. today through Saturday. On Sunday, it will be live from noon to 7 p.m.
-- Join me at twitter.com/langstonwertzjr and facebook.com/langstonwertzjr
Sports Resort is a collection of easy-to-play sports games, such as basketball and table tennis. They take advantage of the Wii's remote, which you can use as if you're swinging a bat or racket, or make a throwing motion to t oss a ball.
The mobile tour will be set up in the Concord Mills' Food Court from noon to 9 p.m. today through Saturday. On Sunday, it will be live from noon to 7 p.m.
-- Join me at twitter.com/langstonwertzjr and facebook.com/langstonwertzjr
Thursday, August 20, 2009
NBC to broadcast NFL games online
NBC will offer its 17-game Sunday Night football schedule online at nbcsports.com and nfl.com
The live coverage will come from NBC's over-the-air broadcast plus four additional cameras for the online audience that will include new camera angles and interactive features. The online feed will be in HD quality and have a DVR-like function to allow viewers to pause, rewind and look at plays in slow motion.
-- Langston Wertz Jr.
lwertz@charlotteobserver.com
twitter.com/langstonwertzjr
facebook.com/langstonwertzjr
The live coverage will come from NBC's over-the-air broadcast plus four additional cameras for the online audience that will include new camera angles and interactive features. The online feed will be in HD quality and have a DVR-like function to allow viewers to pause, rewind and look at plays in slow motion.
-- Langston Wertz Jr.
lwertz@charlotteobserver.com
twitter.com/langstonwertzjr
facebook.com/langstonwertzjr
Microsoft's new webcam delivers widescreen video
MIcrosoft's new LifeCam Cinema is what the company calls the first consumer webcam to offer widescreen video. This is you talking to Mom and Dad from college in near HD. The camera comes with a native 720 pixel sensor.
Microsoft says the LifeCam will deliver clearer images than a standard webcam and capture a much wider view. It says the camera will perform better in low light conditions as well.
Users will be to take their videos to Windows Live and use Windows Live Movie Maker, which now has HD support, and edit photos and videos shot with the webcam and send them to YouTube with one click (rather Apple-like).
LifeCam Cinema will be available in September for the estimated retail price of $79.95.
-- Langston Wertz Jr.
lwertz@charlotteobserver.com
twitter.com/langstonwertzjr
facebook.com/langstonwertzjr
charlotteobserver.com/205
Microsoft says the LifeCam will deliver clearer images than a standard webcam and capture a much wider view. It says the camera will perform better in low light conditions as well.
Users will be to take their videos to Windows Live and use Windows Live Movie Maker, which now has HD support, and edit photos and videos shot with the webcam and send them to YouTube with one click (rather Apple-like).
LifeCam Cinema will be available in September for the estimated retail price of $79.95.
-- Langston Wertz Jr.
lwertz@charlotteobserver.com
twitter.com/langstonwertzjr
facebook.com/langstonwertzjr
charlotteobserver.com/205
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Sega's Napolean War hitting stores soon
SEGA's Napoleon: Total War is coming soon.
In the game, aspiring generals have the opportunity to play as the legendary French general Napoleon Bonaparte or as opposing forces. Battling through Napoleon’s three biggest military campaigns, the game will take you through Italy and Egypt, while the third campaign will tell the story of his fateful drive towards Moscow and, ultimately, his showdown with the Duke of Wellington at one of the most famous battles of all – The Battle of Waterloo.
Napoleon: Total War hits shelves in first quarter 2010.
In the game, aspiring generals have the opportunity to play as the legendary French general Napoleon Bonaparte or as opposing forces. Battling through Napoleon’s three biggest military campaigns, the game will take you through Italy and Egypt, while the third campaign will tell the story of his fateful drive towards Moscow and, ultimately, his showdown with the Duke of Wellington at one of the most famous battles of all – The Battle of Waterloo.
Napoleon: Total War hits shelves in first quarter 2010.
Saturday, August 15, 2009
Solving PGA golf broadcast problems on DTV
There is some problem with DirecTV's feed of the PGA Championship on WBTV Channel 3. There was a black bar covering half the screen.
DirecTV viewers can see multiple feeds from the tournament including the network feed at channel 702. You can follow Tiger Woods and Vijay Singh, shot for shot, at channel 703 and see action at the Par 3s on Channel 704.
DirecTV viewers can see multiple feeds from the tournament including the network feed at channel 702. You can follow Tiger Woods and Vijay Singh, shot for shot, at channel 703 and see action at the Par 3s on Channel 704.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Madden 2010 game the best yet
Of all the more recent generations of the popular Madden football videogame, the 2010 version, which releases today, (Aug. 14) is easily the most hyped and most anticipated.
Game-maker EA Sports said it was listening to its many gaming critics and promised to make Madden play and look more realistic. For the most part, I think the game hit its marks.
I tried the Wii version and was a little underwhelmed. Madden seemed a little too slow on the Wii and making a motion akin to rolling a bowling ball didn’t exactly make me feel like I was kicking anything. The graphics weren’t very sharp and were very cartoonish-looking.
Even my 9-year-old put it down after only a few minutes. I did enjoy playing in the unlockable Super Bowl and Pro Bowl stadiums, though.
It was a different story on Xbox 360.
Madden has never looked better. A new online mode got my attention quickly. You pick one team in the league and play with up to 32 other users and compete head-to-head for 10 seasons.
I had a little trouble with slow upload times, but got the jist of it. Once you join a league, the game tracks everything that happens in your league down to trades, stats and injuries. You’ll find you want to know who’s hurt on Atlanta if you play the Falcons next.
You’ll also find you will want to horde your draft picks. This is a feature that will keep gamers going for months, and given that improvements to actual gameplay are getting incrementally slower each year, which you would expect after so many iterations, EA Sports could offer simple roster updates online every year and probably make a fortune for users who preferred to keep their old game. And Madden 10 is one I think you could stay with for a few years.
Other things I liked:
-- Slower, more realistic game play.
-- The game plays more like real football.
-- There’s a new Madden app for iPhone and iPod touch coming next week that will allow you to manage your team remotely.
-- Playing up to 30 seasons against the computer.
-- The Co-op mode where you and an online friend can control two players on the same team.
-- A new postgame show (very good) and halftime show (OK)
-- And I loved all the new graphics.
You can literally send the fans home with great play and watch them leave. You can gang-tackle players and announcers Cris Collinsworth and Tom Hammond are awful chatty -- and that’s a good thing.
Now if it sounds like I’m going to rate this well, you’re right. Madden gets 3.5 stars out of 4. But I asked a reader, a devoted football gamer, Keith Quick, for his opinions.
Keith is a loyal NFL 2K5 player, five years later, and makes it point every year to call and tell me why the new Madden still isn’t as good as “his old game.”
Keith actually gives Madden an 8 out of 10, but complains about the challenge play system. He wants to be able to challenge any play and he wants a route-based passing system. Then he saw some bugs, like a defensive back running the same route his receiver was running and animations where the coaches would get up in a star’s face and let him have it.
“That doesn’t happen in the NFL,” he said. “Maybe high school or college.”
Keith thinks EA Sports needs to rebuild the game engine from the ground up, like it did for the excellent FIFA soccer.
I think EA Sports has another hit on its hands with Madden 10, the best version of the game we’ve ever tried.
Langston Wertz Jr.: 704-358-5133; lwertz@charlotteobserver.com; twitter.com/langstonwertzjr; facebook.com/langstonwertzjr
Prison Break: the game on the way
Deep Silver Inc., a publisher of interactive entertainment software, today announced the signing of a license agreement with Twentieth Century Fox Licensing & Merchandising (Fox Licensing) regarding the world-wide publication rights to a video game based on the award-winning TV series "Prison Break." "Prison Break", developed by Zootfly, will be released by Deep Silver for next gen consoles and PC.
The protagonist of the "Prison Break" game is Company agent Tom Paxton. He is sent to the Fox River State Penitentiary to find out why Michael Scofield (the hero of the TV series), a man without a previous criminal record, became a bank robber. The storyline runs parallel to the first season of "Prison Break": Paxton encounters several characters from the series and experiences key events from his own perspective.
The protagonist of the "Prison Break" game is Company agent Tom Paxton. He is sent to the Fox River State Penitentiary to find out why Michael Scofield (the hero of the TV series), a man without a previous criminal record, became a bank robber. The storyline runs parallel to the first season of "Prison Break": Paxton encounters several characters from the series and experiences key events from his own perspective.
Monday, August 10, 2009
Netgear releases new wire-free home networking kit
Netgear has released a new version of its Powerline home networking devices. They help turn electrical power outlets into high-speed Internet and home network connections.
As a 2009 CES Innovations Award winner, NETGEAR's Home Theater Internet Connection Kit (XAVB1004) makes it possible to connect multiple Ethernet-enabled entertainment devices - such as gaming consoles, Blu-ray players, HDTVs and media streaming set-top boxes - to the Internet and the home network simultaneously. Previously you needed an outboard box to split the main signal from the NETGEAR into multiple lines for use in multiple devices.
Through a high-speed powerline connection of up to 200 Mbps, this powerline kit enables high-performance applications such as HD video streaming, Voice over IP (VoIP), Internet gaming and large file transfers to networked devices in the home theater.
The kit, which goes for $179.99, contains one Powerline AV Adapter with 4-port Ethernet Switch (XAV1004) and one Powerline AV Ethernet Adapter (XAV101). This "no new wires" powerline technology enables customers to carry high-speed data network traffic on their existing electrical wiring - using affordable, simple to install adapters. Additionally, advanced energy management capabilities provide automatic port- and device-level sleep modes and wake-on-activity functionality to reduce overall energy usage. The kit also incorporates several ease-of-use features: port-based Quality of Service (QoS) to ensure that the highest priority applications are allocated more bandwidth; Push-N-Secure to secure the Powerline AV network with the push of a button; and Pick-a-Plug, a multi-color LED to determine the strength of the powerline connection without having to look at a computer.
As a 2009 CES Innovations Award winner, NETGEAR's Home Theater Internet Connection Kit (XAVB1004) makes it possible to connect multiple Ethernet-enabled entertainment devices - such as gaming consoles, Blu-ray players, HDTVs and media streaming set-top boxes - to the Internet and the home network simultaneously. Previously you needed an outboard box to split the main signal from the NETGEAR into multiple lines for use in multiple devices.
Through a high-speed powerline connection of up to 200 Mbps, this powerline kit enables high-performance applications such as HD video streaming, Voice over IP (VoIP), Internet gaming and large file transfers to networked devices in the home theater.
The kit, which goes for $179.99, contains one Powerline AV Adapter with 4-port Ethernet Switch (XAV1004) and one Powerline AV Ethernet Adapter (XAV101). This "no new wires" powerline technology enables customers to carry high-speed data network traffic on their existing electrical wiring - using affordable, simple to install adapters. Additionally, advanced energy management capabilities provide automatic port- and device-level sleep modes and wake-on-activity functionality to reduce overall energy usage. The kit also incorporates several ease-of-use features: port-based Quality of Service (QoS) to ensure that the highest priority applications are allocated more bandwidth; Push-N-Secure to secure the Powerline AV network with the push of a button; and Pick-a-Plug, a multi-color LED to determine the strength of the powerline connection without having to look at a computer.
New headphones for the Xbox 360
Turtle Beach, which specializes in premium XBOX 360 headsets, today announced a new addition the Ear Force X31. It includes digital RF wireless CD-quality stereo sound plus XBOX LIVE chat.
The X31 also includes the Chat Boost, which automatically increases the volume of XBOX LIVE chat as the game gets louder, microphone monitoring so you can hear what you’re saying even though the headset is covering your ears and bass boost to enhance the deep bass from explosions and other sounds. For superior sound fidelity, the X31 ear cups incorporate improved 40 mm speakers based on the same design as the high-fidelity X41 speakers.
Enhancements in the X31 over the original X3 model include:
The X3 analog infrared wireless signal has been replaced with digital 2.4 GHz RF wireless technology, for low-latency, uncompressed, CD-quality sound with no background hiss, no interference from plasma TV screens and no line of sight restrictions between the transmitter and headset.
The headset includes a Digital Signal Processor for bass boost and stereo expander effects. An audible beep indicates which effect is turned on as you press the Effects button on the headset.
The X31 transmitter is powered by a USB port on the XBOX or nearby PC, Mac or laptop, so gamers will have one less power adapter to worry about. This is especially convenient when using it overseas, since it eliminates the need for special power adapter plugs.
A new “battery booster” circuit in the headset extends battery life for up to 25 hours and assures that the sound quality will stay crisp and clear until the batteries are completely drained. Optional rechargeable batteries can be used in place of alkaline batteries.
The X31 headset comfort has been improved by increasing the size of the ear cups so they sit around your ears rather than on top of them. In addition, the X3 vinyl ear cushions have been replaced with soft, fabric mesh ear cushions that let your ears breathe, for added comfort during long gaming sessions.
Although primarily designed for XBOX 360 gaming, the Ear Force X31 is compatible with other gaming consoles (note that the integrated microphone works only with the 360) and can also be used as a home-theater accessory for enjoying DVD movies, watching TV or listening to music.
The Ear Force X31 headset has an MSRP of $99.95 and will be available at Best Buy, GameStop and other major US and Canadian retailers in September, and from the Turtle Beach web site www.turtlebeach.com. Turtle Beach Ear Force headsets are distributed in Europe by Mad Catz® Interactive, Inc. (AMEX/TSX: MCZ www.madcatz.com.)
NEW DOLBY DIGITAL VERSION OUT TOO
Turtle Beach's Ear Force X41 includes wireless Dolby Digital sound.
A digital optical input on the X41 transmitter connects to the XBOX 360 for pure-digital, high-quality audio. A digital optical output connects to a home theater system for simultaneously using the X41 headset and home theater speakers. Analog stereo inputs let you use the headset for listening to MP3 players, TV audio or other analog sources.
Enhancements in the X41 over the original X4 model include:
The X4 analog infrared wireless signal has been replaced with digital 2.4 GHz RF wireless technology, for low-latency, uncompressed, CD-quality sound with no background hiss, no interference from plasma TV screens and no line of sight restrictions between the transmitter and headset.
The X41 uses the latest version of Dolby technology to support game sound in 7.1 channels instead of 5.1 channels, for improved surround sound accuracy.
Dolby Pro Logic has been upgraded to Dolby Pro Logic® IIx.
The X41 transmitter includes a headphone jack and volume control for an additional wired headset, so a second player can hear the same Dolby surround sound that’s being transmitted to the X41 wireless headset.
The X41 transmitter is powered by a USB port on the XBOX or nearby PC, Mac or laptop, so gamers will have one less power adapter to worry about. This is especially convenient when using it overseas, since it eliminates the need for special power adapter plugs.
A new “battery booster” circuit in the headset extends battery life for up to 25 hours and assures that the sound quality will stay crisp and clear until the batteries are completely drained. Optional rechargeable batteries can be used in place of alkaline batteries.
The velvet ear cushions used on the X4 have been replaced with rich, soft, fabric mesh cushions that let your ears breathe, for added comfort during long gaming sessions.
Although primarily designed for XBOX 360 gaming, the Ear Force X41 is compatible with other gaming consoles (note that the integrated microphone works only with the 360) and can also be used as a home-theater accessory for enjoying DVDs in Dolby surround sound, watching TV or listening to music.
The Ear Force X41 headset has an MSRP of $199.95 and will be available at Best Buy and other major US retailers in September, and from the Turtle Beach web site www.turtlebeach.com. Turtle Beach Ear Force headsets are distributed in Europe by Mad Catz® Interactive, Inc. (AMEX/TSX: MCZ www.madcatz.com.)
The X31 also includes the Chat Boost, which automatically increases the volume of XBOX LIVE chat as the game gets louder, microphone monitoring so you can hear what you’re saying even though the headset is covering your ears and bass boost to enhance the deep bass from explosions and other sounds. For superior sound fidelity, the X31 ear cups incorporate improved 40 mm speakers based on the same design as the high-fidelity X41 speakers.
Enhancements in the X31 over the original X3 model include:
The X3 analog infrared wireless signal has been replaced with digital 2.4 GHz RF wireless technology, for low-latency, uncompressed, CD-quality sound with no background hiss, no interference from plasma TV screens and no line of sight restrictions between the transmitter and headset.
The headset includes a Digital Signal Processor for bass boost and stereo expander effects. An audible beep indicates which effect is turned on as you press the Effects button on the headset.
The X31 transmitter is powered by a USB port on the XBOX or nearby PC, Mac or laptop, so gamers will have one less power adapter to worry about. This is especially convenient when using it overseas, since it eliminates the need for special power adapter plugs.
A new “battery booster” circuit in the headset extends battery life for up to 25 hours and assures that the sound quality will stay crisp and clear until the batteries are completely drained. Optional rechargeable batteries can be used in place of alkaline batteries.
The X31 headset comfort has been improved by increasing the size of the ear cups so they sit around your ears rather than on top of them. In addition, the X3 vinyl ear cushions have been replaced with soft, fabric mesh ear cushions that let your ears breathe, for added comfort during long gaming sessions.
Although primarily designed for XBOX 360 gaming, the Ear Force X31 is compatible with other gaming consoles (note that the integrated microphone works only with the 360) and can also be used as a home-theater accessory for enjoying DVD movies, watching TV or listening to music.
The Ear Force X31 headset has an MSRP of $99.95 and will be available at Best Buy, GameStop and other major US and Canadian retailers in September, and from the Turtle Beach web site www.turtlebeach.com. Turtle Beach Ear Force headsets are distributed in Europe by Mad Catz® Interactive, Inc. (AMEX/TSX: MCZ www.madcatz.com.)
NEW DOLBY DIGITAL VERSION OUT TOO
Turtle Beach's Ear Force X41 includes wireless Dolby Digital sound.
A digital optical input on the X41 transmitter connects to the XBOX 360 for pure-digital, high-quality audio. A digital optical output connects to a home theater system for simultaneously using the X41 headset and home theater speakers. Analog stereo inputs let you use the headset for listening to MP3 players, TV audio or other analog sources.
Enhancements in the X41 over the original X4 model include:
The X4 analog infrared wireless signal has been replaced with digital 2.4 GHz RF wireless technology, for low-latency, uncompressed, CD-quality sound with no background hiss, no interference from plasma TV screens and no line of sight restrictions between the transmitter and headset.
The X41 uses the latest version of Dolby technology to support game sound in 7.1 channels instead of 5.1 channels, for improved surround sound accuracy.
Dolby Pro Logic has been upgraded to Dolby Pro Logic® IIx.
The X41 transmitter includes a headphone jack and volume control for an additional wired headset, so a second player can hear the same Dolby surround sound that’s being transmitted to the X41 wireless headset.
The X41 transmitter is powered by a USB port on the XBOX or nearby PC, Mac or laptop, so gamers will have one less power adapter to worry about. This is especially convenient when using it overseas, since it eliminates the need for special power adapter plugs.
A new “battery booster” circuit in the headset extends battery life for up to 25 hours and assures that the sound quality will stay crisp and clear until the batteries are completely drained. Optional rechargeable batteries can be used in place of alkaline batteries.
The velvet ear cushions used on the X4 have been replaced with rich, soft, fabric mesh cushions that let your ears breathe, for added comfort during long gaming sessions.
Although primarily designed for XBOX 360 gaming, the Ear Force X41 is compatible with other gaming consoles (note that the integrated microphone works only with the 360) and can also be used as a home-theater accessory for enjoying DVDs in Dolby surround sound, watching TV or listening to music.
The Ear Force X41 headset has an MSRP of $199.95 and will be available at Best Buy and other major US retailers in September, and from the Turtle Beach web site www.turtlebeach.com. Turtle Beach Ear Force headsets are distributed in Europe by Mad Catz® Interactive, Inc. (AMEX/TSX: MCZ www.madcatz.com.)
"Players Only" videogame show returns for new season
Digital Trends has announced the debut of season two of its popular PC and video game show "Players Only with Scott Steinberg."
New episodes of the documentary series, which offers viewers an inside look at the $22 billion interactive entertainment business, will be available starting today and every Monday from August 17th-September 28th at the company's website.
The action kicks off immediately with a special two-part season opener, as the biggest names in gaming cast aside the industry's "recession-proof" image and reveal whether or not video games are ultimately destined for extinction.
In addition to regular episodes, which are free to distribute via all electronic forms, Players Only with Scott Steinberg's 2009 run will also feature the premiere of multiple extended Director's Cut editions, available exclusively at DigitalTrends.com. Topics covered this season will range from the changing face of game design and journalism to the rise of indie games, social networks and devices like the iPhone and Microsoft's motion-sensing Project Natal control system, which are quickly reshaping the future of play. Hosted by noted PC and video game expert Scott Steinberg (http://www.thevideogameexpert.com), the show will also feature guest appearances by game industry stars such as David Perry, Cliff Bleszinski, Chris Taylor, Ted Price, Ian Livingstone, John Romero, Lorne Lanning and Brad Wardell.
-- Langston Wertz Jr.
lwertz@charlotteobserver.com
twitter.com/langstonwertzjr
facebook.com/langstonwertzjr
New episodes of the documentary series, which offers viewers an inside look at the $22 billion interactive entertainment business, will be available starting today and every Monday from August 17th-September 28th at the company's website.
The action kicks off immediately with a special two-part season opener, as the biggest names in gaming cast aside the industry's "recession-proof" image and reveal whether or not video games are ultimately destined for extinction.
In addition to regular episodes, which are free to distribute via all electronic forms, Players Only with Scott Steinberg's 2009 run will also feature the premiere of multiple extended Director's Cut editions, available exclusively at DigitalTrends.com. Topics covered this season will range from the changing face of game design and journalism to the rise of indie games, social networks and devices like the iPhone and Microsoft's motion-sensing Project Natal control system, which are quickly reshaping the future of play. Hosted by noted PC and video game expert Scott Steinberg (http://www.thevideogameexpert.com), the show will also feature guest appearances by game industry stars such as David Perry, Cliff Bleszinski, Chris Taylor, Ted Price, Ian Livingstone, John Romero, Lorne Lanning and Brad Wardell.
-- Langston Wertz Jr.
lwertz@charlotteobserver.com
twitter.com/langstonwertzjr
facebook.com/langstonwertzjr
Fossil fighters coming to Nintendo DS and DSi
Want to play with some Dinos on your Nintendo portable? You've got your wish.
Today, NIntendo dropped the Fossil Fighters video game, which takes you to a world in which fearsome creatures are hidden as fossils for players to collect, using the unique touch-screen controls of Nintendo DS. Players can clean, collect and battle their discoveries.
The game features more than 100 dinosaur-like creatures called Vivosaurs, each of which can be revived and deployed in strategic turn-based battles. With fun tactical elements, vast environments to explore and a lighthearted storyline and characters, Fossil Fighters allows players to control and customize a team of Vivosaurs as they battle their way through the mysterious Vivosaur Island. Players can also connect over local wireless with friends to battle customized teams of Vivosaurs or trade their fossils.
“Dinosaurs are a source of endless fascination for the young and the young at heart,” said Cammie Dunaway, Nintendo of America’s executive vice president of Sales & Marketing. “Combining customization and social play, Fossil Fighters brings together the best elements of hand-held gaming for players of all ages.”
Using the Nintendo DS stylus and touch screen, players can chip and drill away at each fossil they find. They can even blow into the Nintendo DS microphone to clear away dust. Once a fossil head is cleaned, the Vivosaur can be revived and used in battle. Other fossilized body parts can also be found and cleaned to imbue each Vivosaur with special powers. Players can create custom teams of three Vivosaurs, strategically selecting the best trio for each encounter.
Today, NIntendo dropped the Fossil Fighters video game, which takes you to a world in which fearsome creatures are hidden as fossils for players to collect, using the unique touch-screen controls of Nintendo DS. Players can clean, collect and battle their discoveries.
The game features more than 100 dinosaur-like creatures called Vivosaurs, each of which can be revived and deployed in strategic turn-based battles. With fun tactical elements, vast environments to explore and a lighthearted storyline and characters, Fossil Fighters allows players to control and customize a team of Vivosaurs as they battle their way through the mysterious Vivosaur Island. Players can also connect over local wireless with friends to battle customized teams of Vivosaurs or trade their fossils.
“Dinosaurs are a source of endless fascination for the young and the young at heart,” said Cammie Dunaway, Nintendo of America’s executive vice president of Sales & Marketing. “Combining customization and social play, Fossil Fighters brings together the best elements of hand-held gaming for players of all ages.”
Using the Nintendo DS stylus and touch screen, players can chip and drill away at each fossil they find. They can even blow into the Nintendo DS microphone to clear away dust. Once a fossil head is cleaned, the Vivosaur can be revived and used in battle. Other fossilized body parts can also be found and cleaned to imbue each Vivosaur with special powers. Players can create custom teams of three Vivosaurs, strategically selecting the best trio for each encounter.
Sunday, August 09, 2009
AT&T offers the iPhone for $49. Seriously
Remember when the iPhone cost a mortgage payment?
AT&T has recently started selling a refurbished iPhone 3G for $49. You have to get the two-year contract and you must keep the $30 per month data plan on the phone for life (something I would definitely try to talk my way out of).
The new 8-gig 3G costs $99 new without the data stipulation but it's still something to think about, an iPhone for under 50 bucks.
Now if only AT&T could offer a $99 everything plan like Sprint has for the excellent Palm Pre.
-- Langston Wertz Jr.
lwertz@charlotteobserver.com
twitter.com/langstonwertzjr
facebook.com/langstonwertzjr
AT&T has recently started selling a refurbished iPhone 3G for $49. You have to get the two-year contract and you must keep the $30 per month data plan on the phone for life (something I would definitely try to talk my way out of).
The new 8-gig 3G costs $99 new without the data stipulation but it's still something to think about, an iPhone for under 50 bucks.
Now if only AT&T could offer a $99 everything plan like Sprint has for the excellent Palm Pre.
-- Langston Wertz Jr.
lwertz@charlotteobserver.com
twitter.com/langstonwertzjr
facebook.com/langstonwertzjr
New 'Sports Resort' is a place you'll visit more than once
Nintendo's new "Sports Resort" for the Wii is another impossibly simple batch of sports-themed minigames that are easy to play and enjoyable enough to make you come back for more.
There are 12 sports games here. All require the new Wii MotionPlus accessory, which allows more precise movements with the Wii-Mote. The game comes with one, and the level of control is markedly better.
Games include basketball, swordfighting, archery, table tennis, bowling, Frisbee and more.
This is a must-own.
There are 12 sports games here. All require the new Wii MotionPlus accessory, which allows more precise movements with the Wii-Mote. The game comes with one, and the level of control is markedly better.
Games include basketball, swordfighting, archery, table tennis, bowling, Frisbee and more.
This is a must-own.
EA Sports nearly knocks "NCAA 10" out of the park
While we're waiting on the new (and supposedly improved) “Madden NFL 10,” due Friday, it's a good time to take a look at EA Sports' “other” football game: “NCAA 10.”
Upon putting in the PlayStation 3 version, it's readily apparent that EA Sports has stepped up the details. There are a lot of new animations, which add to the realistic feel – and when you create a player with a tough-to-pronounce name, the announcers tend to get it right. Amazing.
“NCAA” has a high level of difficulty, but there are a couple of gadgets that help you keep pace.
The new “setup” control allows you to bait the defense into coming closer to the line of scrimmage. So, for example, if you call several run plays in a row, the opposing line will creep up – allowing you to run a play-action pass play, get your receiver behind the defense, and try to throw to him for a big play.
On defense, you can hold down the “win” button and magically watch as your cornerback turns into Deion Sanders or as your linebacker becomes Mike Singletary. It's almost foolproof.
A couple of other new features add an incredible amount of depth.
You can create your own team using a free Web site on your PC, customizing everything there and then transferring it to your console. (I saw people had created a few area high school teams in exquisite detail online.)
And the new “season showdown” mode is a true innovation. During the season, you play the same schedule as the real-life team of your choice – against a computer or online opponent – and you can follow your standings online or in game.
You can earn points, via online play or against the computer, during the four-month regular season that begins Aug. 31. The only way to lose points is for sportsmanship, so no running up the score. The season ends with a championship round. EA Sports will post weekly podcasts with updates. It's a wonderful addition, and I hope it's in “Madden” as well.
There are some bugs in “NCAA 10” – players running in circles for no reason, cheerleaders wearing shorts in snowstorms. But all in all, this is another strong game.
Upon putting in the PlayStation 3 version, it's readily apparent that EA Sports has stepped up the details. There are a lot of new animations, which add to the realistic feel – and when you create a player with a tough-to-pronounce name, the announcers tend to get it right. Amazing.
“NCAA” has a high level of difficulty, but there are a couple of gadgets that help you keep pace.
The new “setup” control allows you to bait the defense into coming closer to the line of scrimmage. So, for example, if you call several run plays in a row, the opposing line will creep up – allowing you to run a play-action pass play, get your receiver behind the defense, and try to throw to him for a big play.
On defense, you can hold down the “win” button and magically watch as your cornerback turns into Deion Sanders or as your linebacker becomes Mike Singletary. It's almost foolproof.
A couple of other new features add an incredible amount of depth.
You can create your own team using a free Web site on your PC, customizing everything there and then transferring it to your console. (I saw people had created a few area high school teams in exquisite detail online.)
And the new “season showdown” mode is a true innovation. During the season, you play the same schedule as the real-life team of your choice – against a computer or online opponent – and you can follow your standings online or in game.
You can earn points, via online play or against the computer, during the four-month regular season that begins Aug. 31. The only way to lose points is for sportsmanship, so no running up the score. The season ends with a championship round. EA Sports will post weekly podcasts with updates. It's a wonderful addition, and I hope it's in “Madden” as well.
There are some bugs in “NCAA 10” – players running in circles for no reason, cheerleaders wearing shorts in snowstorms. But all in all, this is another strong game.
Friday, August 07, 2009
And Madden says: Panthers in playoffs in 2010
EA Sports annual simulation of the NFL season predicts Carolina as a wild card entry into the playoffs, which would mean a little team history with back-to-back postseason appearances.
The simulation also revealed these factoids:
-- After missing nearly the entire 2008 season due to an injured left knee, Tom Brady led the New England Patriots to the best overall record (14-2) as he compiled over 4,500 yards and threw for 47 touchdowns – also being named the season MVP and Offensive Player of the Year.
The rest of the AFC played out similar to last season, as the Pittsburgh Steelers, Tennessee Titans and San Diego Chargers won their divisions, while the Indianapolis Colts and Baltimore Ravens secured the AFC Wild Card spots. The biggest surprise was the performance of New York Jets rookie quarterback, Mark Sanchez, who took home the Offensive Rookie of the Year award. It was not enough, however, as the Jets once again failed to make the playoffs.
-- In the NFC, the Philadelphia Eagles returned to prominence, winning the toughest division (NFC East), thanks to a 12-4 record. Andy Reid was awarded Coach of the Year. The Arizona Cardinals and Atlanta Falcons prove that last year wasn’t a fluke as they took home their division crowns. The Jay Cutler-led Chicago Bears will also rebound in a big way, taking the NFC North division. The New York Giants and Carolina Panthers grabbed the NFC Wild Card spots.
NFL 2009 Season Awards (as simulated by Madden NFL 10):
* NFL MVP – Tom Brady, New England Patriots
* Offensive Player of the Year – Tom Brady, New England Patriots
* Defensive Player of the Year – Patrick Willis, San Francisco 49ers
* Offensive Rookie of the Year – Mark Sanchez, New York Jets
* Defensive Rookie of the Year – Brian Orakpo, Washington Redskins
* Coach of the Year – Andy Reid, Philadelphia Eagles.
NFL 2009 All-Pro Team:
* Quarterback – Tom Brady, New England Patriots
* Running Back
o Michael Turner, Atlanta Falcons
o Brandon Jacobs, New York Giants
* Wide Receiver
o Randy Moss, New England Patriots
o Andre Johnson, Houston Texans
* Tight End – Jason Witten, Dallas Cowboys
* Offensive Line
o Matt Light, New England Patriots
o Shawn Andrews, Philadelphia Eagles
o Chris Snee, New York Giants
o Logan Mankins, New England Patriots
o Michael Roos, Tennessee Titans
* Defensive Line
o Trevor Pryce, Baltimore Ravens
o Haloti Ngata, Baltimore Ravens
o Kris Jenkins, New York Jets
o Osi Umenyiora, New York Giants
* Linebacker
o Patrick Willis, San Francisco 49ers
o Channing Crowder, Miami Dolphins
o James Farrior, Pittsburgh Steelers
* Defense Back
o Brandon Meriweather, New England Patriots
o Nnamdi Asomugha, Oakland Raiders
o Ed Reed, Baltimore Ravens
o Donte Whitner, Buffalo Bills
* Kicker – Josh Scobee, Jacksonville Jaguars
* Punter – Brad Maynard, Chicago Bears
* Kick Returner – Devin Hester, Chicago Bears
* Punt Returner – Josh Cribbs, Cleveland Browns
The simulation also revealed these factoids:
-- After missing nearly the entire 2008 season due to an injured left knee, Tom Brady led the New England Patriots to the best overall record (14-2) as he compiled over 4,500 yards and threw for 47 touchdowns – also being named the season MVP and Offensive Player of the Year.
The rest of the AFC played out similar to last season, as the Pittsburgh Steelers, Tennessee Titans and San Diego Chargers won their divisions, while the Indianapolis Colts and Baltimore Ravens secured the AFC Wild Card spots. The biggest surprise was the performance of New York Jets rookie quarterback, Mark Sanchez, who took home the Offensive Rookie of the Year award. It was not enough, however, as the Jets once again failed to make the playoffs.
-- In the NFC, the Philadelphia Eagles returned to prominence, winning the toughest division (NFC East), thanks to a 12-4 record. Andy Reid was awarded Coach of the Year. The Arizona Cardinals and Atlanta Falcons prove that last year wasn’t a fluke as they took home their division crowns. The Jay Cutler-led Chicago Bears will also rebound in a big way, taking the NFC North division. The New York Giants and Carolina Panthers grabbed the NFC Wild Card spots.
NFL 2009 Season Awards (as simulated by Madden NFL 10):
* NFL MVP – Tom Brady, New England Patriots
* Offensive Player of the Year – Tom Brady, New England Patriots
* Defensive Player of the Year – Patrick Willis, San Francisco 49ers
* Offensive Rookie of the Year – Mark Sanchez, New York Jets
* Defensive Rookie of the Year – Brian Orakpo, Washington Redskins
* Coach of the Year – Andy Reid, Philadelphia Eagles.
NFL 2009 All-Pro Team:
* Quarterback – Tom Brady, New England Patriots
* Running Back
o Michael Turner, Atlanta Falcons
o Brandon Jacobs, New York Giants
* Wide Receiver
o Randy Moss, New England Patriots
o Andre Johnson, Houston Texans
* Tight End – Jason Witten, Dallas Cowboys
* Offensive Line
o Matt Light, New England Patriots
o Shawn Andrews, Philadelphia Eagles
o Chris Snee, New York Giants
o Logan Mankins, New England Patriots
o Michael Roos, Tennessee Titans
* Defensive Line
o Trevor Pryce, Baltimore Ravens
o Haloti Ngata, Baltimore Ravens
o Kris Jenkins, New York Jets
o Osi Umenyiora, New York Giants
* Linebacker
o Patrick Willis, San Francisco 49ers
o Channing Crowder, Miami Dolphins
o James Farrior, Pittsburgh Steelers
* Defense Back
o Brandon Meriweather, New England Patriots
o Nnamdi Asomugha, Oakland Raiders
o Ed Reed, Baltimore Ravens
o Donte Whitner, Buffalo Bills
* Kicker – Josh Scobee, Jacksonville Jaguars
* Punter – Brad Maynard, Chicago Bears
* Kick Returner – Devin Hester, Chicago Bears
* Punt Returner – Josh Cribbs, Cleveland Browns
Thursday, August 06, 2009
Buick to release plug-in hybrid SUV next year
I've said this before, I think Buick is going to be GM's best brand moving forward.
The company's new designs are eye-catching and if the 2010 LaCrosse sedan delivers anywhere near what it looks like Buick will have a hit on its hands.
Now, the company is announcing that GM's plug-in hybrid technology will be introduced in a new Buick crossover vehicle in 2011. The nameless car, for now, will launch late next year with what the company calls "a family of fuel-efficient direct-injected gasoline engines, followed in 2011 by the plug-in hybrid model."
The new five-passenger crossover will build on the success of the Buick Enclave, offering the brand's finely crafted execution and premium driving experience in a fuel-efficient package.
The Buick crossover will be powered by an Ecotec 2.4L direct-injected four-cylinder engine with an optional 3.0L direct-injected V-6, and is expected to deliver 30 miles per gallon or more on the highway.
The Buick plug-in hybrid version is expected to be the first commercially available plug-in hybrid SUV produced by a major automaker.
GM claims that the Buick plug-in hybrid has the potential to achieve double the fuel economy of comparably-sized SUVs on short trips. It will use same battery cells as the upcoming Chevy Volt. The lithium-ion battery can be fully recharged in four to five hours by simply connecting the vehicle to any standard 110V household electrical outlet. By recharging rather than refueling, the Buick plug-in hybrid significantly improves fuel economy and reduces petroleum use. In early testing, the plug-in hybrid is capable of electric-only propulsion for more than 10 miles at low speeds.
On the road, GM's 2-Mode plug-in hybrid system can use any combination of electric or gasoline engine power to move the vehicle, depending on the driving conditions. This differs from GM's Voltec technology, which provides the Volt with up to 40 miles of emissions- and petroleum-free electric-only propulsion, and an overall range of more than 300 miles with its flex-fuel engine-generator.
In addition to the lithium-ion battery pack, the Buick plug-in hybrid's powertrain features two powerful electric motors, sophisticated electronic controls and battery management systems and an efficient direct-injected 3.6L V-6 flex-fuel engine.
The company's new designs are eye-catching and if the 2010 LaCrosse sedan delivers anywhere near what it looks like Buick will have a hit on its hands.
Now, the company is announcing that GM's plug-in hybrid technology will be introduced in a new Buick crossover vehicle in 2011. The nameless car, for now, will launch late next year with what the company calls "a family of fuel-efficient direct-injected gasoline engines, followed in 2011 by the plug-in hybrid model."
The new five-passenger crossover will build on the success of the Buick Enclave, offering the brand's finely crafted execution and premium driving experience in a fuel-efficient package.
The Buick crossover will be powered by an Ecotec 2.4L direct-injected four-cylinder engine with an optional 3.0L direct-injected V-6, and is expected to deliver 30 miles per gallon or more on the highway.
The Buick plug-in hybrid version is expected to be the first commercially available plug-in hybrid SUV produced by a major automaker.
GM claims that the Buick plug-in hybrid has the potential to achieve double the fuel economy of comparably-sized SUVs on short trips. It will use same battery cells as the upcoming Chevy Volt. The lithium-ion battery can be fully recharged in four to five hours by simply connecting the vehicle to any standard 110V household electrical outlet. By recharging rather than refueling, the Buick plug-in hybrid significantly improves fuel economy and reduces petroleum use. In early testing, the plug-in hybrid is capable of electric-only propulsion for more than 10 miles at low speeds.
On the road, GM's 2-Mode plug-in hybrid system can use any combination of electric or gasoline engine power to move the vehicle, depending on the driving conditions. This differs from GM's Voltec technology, which provides the Volt with up to 40 miles of emissions- and petroleum-free electric-only propulsion, and an overall range of more than 300 miles with its flex-fuel engine-generator.
In addition to the lithium-ion battery pack, the Buick plug-in hybrid's powertrain features two powerful electric motors, sophisticated electronic controls and battery management systems and an efficient direct-injected 3.6L V-6 flex-fuel engine.
Monday, August 03, 2009
New ATM scam to be on guard for
A reader sent me this link and I thought I should share. This is not the kind of gadget you want to fall prey to:
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