"Golf Simulator" is awful close to real thing

If you are a golf nut, as am I, there's a unique videogame solution you may want to give a try. Electric-Spin's new Golf Launchpad is really more golf than videogame and it allows you to play some of the world's best courses in your living room, or wherever you've got at least eight to 10 feet of ceiling clearance. You can even play opponents online.

This is a simply ingenious piece of equipment that works with compatible EA Sports Tiger Woods titles on the PC, Mac and PS2. It also works with Links.

What it is, really, is a small mat with a ball attached to an arm -- one of those indoor practice tools you see for sale all the time at Wal-Mart.

You hit the ball and it gyrates in a circle on the arm. Using a USB port, you link the mat up to the game and all of a sudden when you hit the ball on the mat, the ball on the screen reacts.

So instead of using your controller, you use your golf club. If you don't have enough room to swing a driver, you can use a special power meter to allow the sensor to adjust so that an iron swing gives you driver distance.

It adds a serious element of realism to swing real clubs and watch your results on real-life courses. You chip. You drive. You putt. It's almost like getting a good practice session in. Best I can tell, the distances and direction of your shots is pretty accurate and the fun factor is high. I worked up quite a sweat playing 72 holes in one session at Pebble Beach (and I did reach 18 in two shots twice).

This is one of the best games I've tried in a while. At $250, it ain't cheap, but it sure is a whole lot of fun (Grade: A).

Tiger Woods PGA Tour 07, Wii Version: It's not the near-golf experience that the Golf Launchpad is, but EA Sports Wii version of TW is pretty cool, too. Using the Wii-mote like a golf club, you make golf motions to hit shots.

You've got 18 courses and 35 golfers to play with, including Tiger. But the cool thing, again, is using the motion controller like a golf club (you can add the Nunchuk for a traditional videogame swing; but why?).

The game has all the modes you've come to expect in any TW game, including multiplayer, PGA Season and practice. The 480P widescreen support looks good, too. It's not as sharp as Tiger's game on PS3 or 360, but the controller makes up some of that difference, too.

Honestly, I was waiting on this game when I played golf on the WiiSports game that comes with the unit. I was not disappointed.

Between this and the Launchpad, I may turn in my golf membership (Grade: A-minus)

....OK, just kidding about the membership part.

Virtua Tennis 3: I used to love this title on some of the older game consoles from Sega, which has delivered a new title for Xbox 360, PS3 and PSP. I got to try the 360 and PS3 versions. I always like it when we get both next-next gen versions so we can compare graphics.

PS3 wins here. Players are a little larger, a little sharper and the backgrounds are cleaner. Both versions, though, have excellent graphics, nearly jaw-droppingly realistic representations of players like Roger Federer, Maria Sharapova, Andy Roddick, Rafael Nadal and Venus Williams.

This game is pretty easy to play, but advancing is a challenge. The game gets noticeably harder as you move up the ranks. You can create your own player, which is neat, and bring him or her up through the mini-tours, my favorite mode here, or you can pick one of the 20 pros and play some head-to-head matches.

The mini-games were OK and didn't hold my attention long. Xbox live was phenomenal. It still amazes me to see how stunning the game looks and how it maintains its presentation even while playing online. There's even a specatator mode where you can watch other players or watch replays, including close line calls.

The PS3 version supports the "tilt" feature in the controller fully, so not only can your fingers and thumbs affect play, so can titling the controller, which can help reach for balls that are wide or high (Grade: B-plus).

Armored Core 4: Want to fight? Armored Core 4 is all action and it looks as good as the Terminator movies. Seriously.

I couldn't tell much difference between the 360 and PS3 versions, but I can tell you that playing war games online is awful fun.

In this fourth installment of the popular series, which is only for folks, say, 16 and up, the world is hurting because of population growth and food shortages (sounds like Al Gore's movie warnings). People have turned streets into war zones and governments have turned to a sort of martial law to try to restore order.

Some of the arms dealers got awful powerful and formed their own war factions. Six of these corporations decided to remove power from the politicized nations and started a war against them -- and the corporations won using 30 super machines called Armored Core mechs.

Under this new world order, people were colonized and worked for food and life. A rebel group, called the Ravens, emerged, not accepting this slave-like existence. Using your own mechs, you battle the corporations in a never-ending stream of bullets and bombs and destruction. There are nearly 40 missions and online, you can battle with up to eight other mechs. You can even customize your rig.

This is a very intense game with very real-looking consequences. It's dark and grim and delivered to the right audience, it is a very entertaining title. Parents are warned, though, to be careful about letting kids play this one (Grade: B-plus).

Get better at basketball by playing a PC game

When I got a computer CD from a company called ACE that was designed to make you a better basketball player, I wasn't expecting much.

But the Basketball IntelliGym (Grade: B-plus) was a pleasant surprise. By using a series of game-like screens, the trainer re-creates game situations and actually helps train the players to make better decisions.

I know of about 50 high school and college coaches in the immediate area that need to invest in one of these things.

The concept was originally developed for Air Force pilots and the training regimen is very similar to videogaming. Best of all, the trainer can create a customized program for each player to help with decision-making, shot selection, team play and even peripheral vision (intelligym.com).

NCAA 07 March Madness: The NCAA Tournament begins tomorrow and what better time to break this new EA Sports Xbox 360 game out than now.

Bobcat Adam Morrison graces the cover and the game is much improved over last year. It has some of the best sports game graphics I've seen on Xbox 360 (which is rumored for a late spring upgrade with bigger hard drive, black color and HDMI port).

There are several new features that distinguish this title from last year: team intensity control allows players to interact with the crowd, the mascots, the band and can influence the composure of your players. Get rattled and your team can get down quick; you now have the ability to upgrade your facilities (if you're doing well) and you can even play in the McDonald's All-American game.

Of course, it's got school-specific fight songs and ESPN intergration. This just feels like college basketball (Grade: B-plus).

In ear headphones makes gaming easier on your friends

If you've ever sat next to someone, a child, an uncle, a 40-year-old games-addled newspaperman, and had to listen to their PSP make all those pop, crackle and ping noises, well, it can drive you crazy.

A great solution for sanity is the new Icemat Audio Siberia in-ear PSP headset. This little bugger plugs directly into your PSP unit. It gave me peace from my son's attempts at Madden football on a recent trip to Asheville to watch some private school basketball state championship games.

He got to bang away (after his homework) and I got to enjoy talk radio, music and more talk radio. When I tried the Siberia, I discovered it's comfortable, small, blocks background noise pretty well and sounds good for what it is.

Did I mention it's small?

I find myself using it with my laptop and my ipod. It's so comfortable, you can forget you're wearing it. Strictly as a videogame solution this is a very good piece. Given that it can do a few other things, I'd highly recommend giving it a whirl (info? icemat.com)

MVP '07 NCAA Baseball: The best thing about this baseball title from EA Sports is a new "rock and fire" pitching control. You pull back on the analog stick to wind up your throw and then follow through. You can push through hard or soft and right or left, or high or low.

Once you get the hang of it, it's about as realistic an interface as we've seen in a baseball game.

The rest of the game isn't bad either. There are official fight songs, good graphics, even for the fast-dying PS2, and a pretty serious custom game engine, allowing you create Langston U and lead the Langstonians to the title game. Also EA Sports has added ESPN integration courtesy of a real-time sports ticker that provides radio updates every 20 minutes. It's a pretty cool package (Grade: B).

Dolby Digital Sound In A Headset

I'm loving the new Triton Technologies "Ultimate Gaming Headset" which are lightweight, and at $149.95, as solid and comfortable as some of the $400 headphones I've tested.

Best of all these are designed with gamers in mind. You can use these with any game system that has a digital sound input, like Xbox, Xbox 360, PC or PS2.

What's cool is that when you're using these, you can kick up the bass and the headphone cups actually rumble. These headphones also deliver true 5.1 sound. It's amazing to hear sound so clear without any distortion. And for people who cannot afford to go spend $500 or more for a true 5.1 setup (and $500 is seriously entry-level), these will make a good alternative.

Games come to life.

I heard so many new things playing especially sports and war games. Watching movies with these was also a special experience. Sounds mixed to only the rear speakers appear to come behind you, so much so that for the first few minutes of the new Superman DVD, I caught myself looking behind me more than a few times (Grade: A-minus).

Burnout Dominator: Racing isn't good enough on this PS2 and PSP title. You want to go really, really fast to achieve a burnout, but don't crash. This is not so hard in the open roads but in city traffic, well, yours truly wrecked more than I'd like to admit. Each car has its own characterisitics, like football players in Madden and the visuals here are about as good as you'll get on these platforms.

The feel of speed is actually more acurate on the hand-held than the aging PS2. And I liked how you could use shortcuts to get back into the race. The cool thing is you bang your opponents through a barrier to enter the shortcut area (Grade: B).

Crackdown: You are a rookie Agent and you have to clean up a mythical city overrun by three gangs in this Grand Theft Auto style game. The Xbox 360 title looks beautiful and parents needs to know this isn't for anyone younger than 16.

This game is built around violence, human cloning, killing gang bosses and collecting orbs. This game is also seriously addicting and could cause you to lose yourself in it for hours. It's beautiful to look at and collecting the orbs and destroying your enemies and gaining new abilities will keep you mashing buttons for hours.

The violence and mayhem are depicted quite realisitically. For players, as you get better, your Agent is able to do more things, like run faster or jump farther. Of course, he'll find more weapons to use. He'll drive cars and other vehicles and is just this short of superhuman. This is the kind of title that will upset those who hate violent videogames. But taken for what it is, it's a very excellent videogame that I would use caution about giving to a teenager (Grade: A).

Wario: Master Of Disguise: Not sure there's enough here to warrant more than a rental. The Nintendo DS game breaks no new real ground. You can change into different forms to move through different areas of each level.

The game begins with Wario seeing a master of disguise on TV. He jumps through the TV, steals the disguise master's wand and jumps into location after location. You can change Wario by drawing a symbol on him. So, boom, he's Cosmic Wario with laser blast ability, or a thief who can tackle people.

I won't lie. This is push-button fun in the Nintendo classic fashion, but I've got a big feeling of 'been there, done that' with this game (Grade: B-minus).

Rogue Galaxy: I've been playing this PS2 title for a month on my PS3 unit. I wish this was a PS3 title as I've spoiled by next-gen graphics now, but this is a massive role-playing game that takes you into deep space with access to 500 different weapons. You can play as multile characters in six really, really big "worlds".

In the end, the game is like a good "Star Trek" movie. You're on a crew in search of a distant planet which may hold the secret to eternal life. Another crew is also hunting this treasure, and they don't care for your group to find it first.

There are more than 100 hours of gameplay and many mini-games, like completing battles under specific conditions, that give players special upgrades.

Had this been done for PS3, it would've been a masterpiece. Without the graphical power, it's still awful, awful good (Grade: B-plus).

Want to be an NCAA Tournament VIP?

It's nearly time for the NCAA Tournament and CBS SportsLine has begun taking sign-ups for VIP access to their NCAA March Madness on Demand internet streaming service.

It provides live streaming video from the first 56 games of the tournament as they are broadcast by CBS Sports. Best of all, it's free.

As a VIP member, users will have much faster access to live video on game days. Without VIP access, fans will have to wait in a virtual line behind all VIP members.

And how long a line is that? In 2006, the service had 150,000 people in the waiting room on Thursday March 16 just after the first games started.

While supplies last, fans can obtain VIP access to MMOD at CBS SportsLine.com (www.sportsline.com/mmod) as well as NCAAsports.com (www.ncaasports.com/mmod).

-- In addition to live video from the first 56 games, MMOD users will have access to on-demand highlights, buzzer beaters and detailed recaps of every game all the way through the championship game.

The 2007 MMOD video player will launch on March 5 with fans having the ability to watch highlights from some of the most memorable NCAA March Madness games of all time. Live video from will be available when the tournament begins Thursday, March 15.

NEWS N NOTES

Rainbox Six Vegas 360 Players Pack Red Coming

Ubisoft has announced the full list for the upcoming release of Player's Pack Red Edition, an all-new downloadable content (DLC) package coming up for Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Vegas, exclusively for the Xbox 360.

Scheduled to be available via the Xbox Live Marketplace at the end of March, this premium content package will enrich and extend the original game by allowing players to continue with five more playable multiplayer maps and two new game modes.

The pack includes three Brand-New MP Adversarial Maps: Three brand-new MP maps are included for a brand-new Vegas multiplayer experience.
• Doscala Restaurant – This well-known Italian restaurant is located in the heart of Las Vegas, near the famous Fremont Street.
• Marshalling Yard – This century-old service yard is situated in the center of an industrial district. Still active today, it is primarily used to store cars, but is also equipped with cleaning and maintenance facilities.
• Roof - A coffee factory has been overrun in the continuing gang violence that is wreaking havoc in this Mexican border town. The strategic positioning of the factory makes it highly desirable to control, and therefore a focal point of the violence.

Popular Korean RPG Coming To US

Korea’s most popular and highly acclaimed massively multiplayer online role-playing game, Granado Espada, is coming to retail throughout North America and Europe this summer under the its newly announced name of Sword of the New World: Granado Espada, courtesy of Elephant Entertainment.

“With a game of this pedigree and potential, publishing a retail complement to the online counterpart is an ideal way to expand availability for consumers,” said Wim Stocks, CEO and president of Elephant Entertainment. “Sword of the New World has several innovative and exciting design elements that combined will set a new precedent for MMORPGs, and we are pleased to be working with K2 Network in bringing it to the North American and European retail markets.”

Sword of the New World is a fantasy MMORPG whose story is modeled after Europe’s exploration of the New World and is comprised of thrilling missions and heroic quests. It's the first MMORPG that allows players to control three characters simultaneously, resulting in a fast-moving game filled with strategic daring and intense combat.

ID SOFTWARE CONFIRMS ENEMY TERRITORY: QUAKE WARS NEXT GEN

The war between the GDF and Strogg will soon be igniting on next-generation consoles as id Software and Activision, Inc. today confirmed that Enemy Territory: QUAKE Wars, the team-based first person action title, and already one of the most anticipated new properties of 2007 is coming to next-gen platforms.

In this epic multiplayer-focused game, players can choose to defend humanity as a part of the Global Defense Force (GDF) or destroy it as a merciless Strogg alien invader. Under the executive production of id Software, Nerve Software is developing Enemy Territory: QUAKE Wars for the Xbox 360, while Z-Axis is the developer for the PS3.

PaperBoy Drops for XBox live Arcade

The much-loved arcade classic from the 1980’s, Paperboy will be available for download on Xbox Live Arcade for Xbox 360 beginning Wednesday, Feb. 14, at 9 a.m. GMT (1 a.m. PST).

Players control a paperboy on his speedy bicycle delivering newspapers along a busy suburban street. The goal is to deliver a week of daily newspapers to subscribers’ homes without damaging their property, all the while avoiding hazards such as grumpy neighbors, annoying dogs and moving vehicles. Miss a delivery too many times and players may lose a subscriber for good.

“Paperboy” will be available worldwide for 400 Microsoft Points.

Game Features
· Seven stages (one for each day of the week) and 3 levels of difficulty – “Easy Street,” “Middle Road” or “Hard Way”
· New Xbox Live multiplayer: The standard multiplayer mode involves two player co-op play which can take place on the same console or over Xbox Live
· High scores are tracked on the Xbox Live Leaderboard
· Earn up to 12 Achievements and 200 Gamerscore points

BANDS BATTLE IT OUT IN EA’S BURNOUT BANDSLAM

Electronic Arts and MySpace, the world’s leading lifestyle portal, have announced an international search for the hottest new bands in the United States and Europe, in collaboration with Virgin Records and Epiphone. EA’s Burnout™ Bandslam started accepting entries on MySpace (http://www.myspace.com/burnoutbandslam) Feb. 6, 2007.

Burnout Bandslam offers unsigned bands from across the United States and Europe the chance to showcase their best track in front of a potential global audience of over 80 million MySpace users, all of whom will be able to vote for their favorite track online.

The winning bands – one each from the United States and Europe - will each receive a Virgin Records demo recording contract and a chance to have their song included in a future Burnout videogame. One runner-up band from each country will become the proud owners of one top-of-the-range Epiphone Les Paul Custom Guitar.

The Burnout videogame series is developed by EA’s Criterion Games studio and is one of the most acclaimed racing videogame franchises of all time. Burnout Dominator is currently in development for the PS2 and PSPsystem and due for release in March 2007.

Game play your way to Wrestlemania

Can you play WWE Smackdown vs. Raw? I mean, can you play really, really well?

THQ Inc. and JAKKS Pacific are sponsoring an online video game tournament for the title via Xbox Live.

From now until February 28, gamers can participate in open ladder play, earning points for each match you win.

On March 3, the 64 players with the most points will go on to compete in an online single elimination tournament. The top two will get an all expenses paid trip to the 5th Annual THQ Superstar Challenge in Detroit, site of WrestleMania 23, where they will play the championship match in front of a live audience at the Gem Theatre on March 29.

The winner of that championship match will receive two floor tickets to WrestleMania 23, a WWE Championship Belt and other prizes. The runner-up will receive two tickets to WrestleMania 23 and a prize pack. In addition, the top 16 runners-up in the online competition will receive WrestleMania-themed prizes.

A list of official rules, tournament schedules and prizing can be found at www.ggl.com.

NEWS N NOTES

NVIDIA LAUNCHES NEW GEFORCE 8800-BASED GRAPHICS CARD

NVIDIA Corporation has released graphics cards based on the NVIDIA GeForce 8800 GTS graphics processing unit (GPU). These new cards come with 320MB of video memory and have prices ranging from $299-$349.

GeForce 8 Series GPUs are the first shipping DirectX 10 GPUs, and are the reference GPUs for DirectX 10 API development and certification. Other graphics cards supporting DirectX 10 include cards based on the GeForce 8800 GTX for $599-$649 and GeForce 8800 GTS 640MB for $399-$449.

GeForce 8 Series GPUs include all required hardware functionality defined in the Microsoft Direct3D® 10 specification, with full support for the DirectX 10 unified shader instruction set and Shader Model 4 capabilities.

Battefield 2142 Hits GamePlay HD

Voom HD Networks’ GamePlay HD, the high-definition channel leading the next generation of television for gamers, will premiere Gamecaster’s Battlefield 2142 Invitational, Thursday, February 15th, 2007 at 10 p.m.

It's an eight-part half-hour tournament series utilizes groundbreaking new technology developed by Gamecaster that pulls viewers into the video game playing field of Electronic Arts’ Battlefield 2142, delivering high production values on par with professional sports broadcasts, as pro-sports camera operators and commentators make the tournament an exciting spectator event.

Eight teams of 5 players converged in Los Angeles in September 2006, to put their playing prowess to the test. Capturing all the close calls and dramatic moments from within the game, the Gamecaster’s Battlefield 2142 Invitational series is the first televised gaming tournament that truly puts viewers on the 50 yard line of this burgeoning sport.

'Mavericks' hope to rewrite rules of Video Game publishing

The former executives of Gathering of Developers (G.O.D.) have started a new independent game publisher, Gamecock Media Group.

Two of the most successful entrepreneurs in the history of the game
industry -- Mike Wilson, former CEO of G.O.D. and rooster enthusiast,
has joined forces with Harry Miller, former president of G.O.D. are behind the project.

The company claims it will be relationship-driven, offering its developers a high-degree of participation and the freedom and financial incentives to perform to their utmost abilities.

"The major publishers have been focusing on safe bets -- large budget
games often attached to major licenses or sequels," said Mike Wilson,
CEO of Gamecock. "This insufficient emphasis on the creation of
original game properties has created major dissatisfaction among the
industry's most talented game designers and has made the current system
unpalatable. In other words, things are getting stale. We aim to change
that."

'Sweet' New Website for Wii Gamers

The Wm. Wrigley Jr. Company has launched wii.candystand.com, a new site designed specifically for use on Nintendo Wii. The new site can be easily accessed through Wii’s Internet Channel.

“The revolutionary Wii is making a profound impact on the console gaming experience,” said Scott Tannen, Wrigley’s Director of Global Digital Marketing. “We are excited to be one of the first to extend this new technology to our consumers by offering a free collection of our award-winning Candystand.com gaming content that is compatible with the Wii.”

The infrared technology in the Wii Remote makes playing games like Juicy Fruit Out of Bounds Tennis a truly interactive experience. Equipped with the intuitive control system, the user merely points the Wiimote at the TV and guides the racquet across the screen with a simple swing of the arm.

Five additional free games are available to Wii players: Big Red/Winterfresh HORSE, Altoids Sheep, Altoids Staxx, The Great Flying Mintini and Altoids Factory, all of which are compatible with the Wii Remote. Additional games will be added throughout the year.

DEF JAM: Icon Tournament announces tour stops

Electronic Arts' DEF JAM: ICON tournaments will be sponsored by GameStop and held in four major U.S. cities throughout February.

The tournament gives players a chance to compete as their favorite hip hop celebrities. Several stores in each city will host the tournaments but only one venue will also have a special appearance from one of the in-game celebrity fighters. Renowned hip-hop artist, Fat Joe, will be launching the tournament in Atlanta on February 13. He will be on location from 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm. The tournament begins at 3:00 pm.

2007 DEF JAM: ICON tournament schedule (this list is partial and includes only the venues hosting celebrity appearances):

DATE
CITY
CELEBRITY APPEARANCE
2/13/2007
Atlanta –
5 GameStop locations and 1 EB Games location
GameStop –
Union City SWM
4731 Jonesboro Road
Suite 180
2/23/2007
Chicago –
5 GameStop locations and 1 EB Games location
GameStop –
The Brickyard S/C
6451 W. Diversey Ave.,#G-9
2/27/2007
Los Angeles –
5 EB Games locations and 1 GameStop location
EB Games –
West Side Pavilion
10800 W. Pico Blvd
Space 353
3/6/2006
New York City –
6 GameStop locations
GameStop –
1282 Broadway (Broadway and 33rd)

For tournament rules, information on the event and other tournament locations, please visit http://www.gamestop.com/defjamicon.

DEF JAM: ICON features an all-star cast and a soundtrack of hip hop hits as players live out the life of a hip hop mogul, fighting all the way from industry outsider to hip hop icon. The dream team roster spans the spectrum of music superstars such as Big Boi and Redman to industry legends including Russell Simmons and Kevin Liles.

Below is the entire cast from DEF JAM: ICON including playable fighters as well as celebrity special appearances:

Anthony Anderson
Jim Jones
Method Man
Sticky Fingaz
Big Boi
Kano
Mike Jones
Summer Walker
Bun B
KD Aubert
Nina Nicole
T.I.
E-40
Kevin Liles
Paul Wall
Tego
Fat Joe
Lil Jon
Redman
The Game
Funkmaster Flex
Ludacris
Robert Dolan
Young Jeezy
Ghostface Killah
Mayra Veronica
Russell Simmons
James Hong
Melyssa Ford
Sean Paul

Serena vs. Conan O'Brien in Nintendo Wii

Goes to show the popularity of the Wii unit, but man, Conan O'Brien should never wear shorts again

Click here for the video

Satellite TV gaming & PS3 price cuts?

DirecTV is readying a nationwide launch of a new gaming service called Game Launch.

The service will deliver games like Sudoku, Poker, Barbie and Hot Wheels.

Game previews will be free and a monthly pass is $5.95. A game pass for selected games is $1.95. To play, you go to Channel 110 on DirecTV. Some boxes already can access the service. If not, you'll get a message saying it's coming soon. You'll use your DirecTV remote to play. But it looks like only the DirecTV branded boxes -- with the white remotes and four color keys on the keypad -- will be able to access the system.

Another way for D* to get your off your TiVo? Maybe.

PS3 Price Drops Coming?

Sony senior vice president Takao Yuhara told the media this week that the company may slash prices on the world's most expensive game machine to help spark sluggish sales.

"We may look at the price as part of our strategy to expand the market when the timing is right,'' Yuhara told reporters at Sony's Tokyo headquarters.

Sony's announcement Tuesday that October-December profit slipped 5 percent to 160 billion yen ($1.3 billion), largely because of PS3 startup costs, sent Sony shares down 1.4 percent in Tokyo on Wednesday. Shares also dropped 32 cents, or 0.7 percent, to $45.98 in midday trading Wednesday on the New York Stock Exchange.

Yuhara said Sony hopes to break even in gaming during the following fiscal year, which ends March 2008.

"Such factors, including price cuts to some extent, are factored in'' the company's break-even plans, he said.

Is PlayStation 3 a bargain at $599?; 2K Football back?

I'm still not sure if Nintendo's sharp little Wii unit is a fad or not, but initial sales are through the roof. If I was Nintendo I'd be readying an HD-Wii that could get closer to XBox 360 and PS3 for processing power while still delivering the fun quotient brought forth by the Wii-mote.

I think we'll see similar remote control devices and games from Microsoft and Sony (whose current controller will detect up and down and side to side motion already), which is hurting because of the high costs of launching such an expensive video game system. This week, Sony said the PS3 was chiefly to blame for a five percent dip in net profit for the final three months of 2006.

"Startup costs are high, and the losses (in the gaming division) will continue for some time," Chief Financial Officer Nobuyuki Oneda told reporters.

I think Sony will recover. It's going to probably have to drop prices a little but I think people will begin to see there's a bargain to be had with PS3.

It does so much more than just play games. It's a true machine that can be the hub of your entertainment network. I've been playing around with the unit quite a bit recently, using it to read photos from memory cards, CDs and even those little USB thumb drives. I can save them to the PS3 hard drive seamlessly. You can even browse the internet on your big screen, which is kind of cool.

The PS3 will also play DVDs and CDs and Super Audio CDs, which provide better sound like regular versions. But best of all, the PS3 will play Blu-Ray DVDs, giving viewers a true high definition experience via DVD. The PS3 will output in 1080p, which is the highest resolution possible. Most TVs today can't render it but you can see the difference in quality. Blu-Ray discs look better than over-the-air HD, which before now, was the king daddy of HDTV.

Sony recently released a $20 bluetooth remote controller that is simple to pair with the PS3 and makes operating the DVD and CD functions much easier than using the game remote. Now the PS3 won't upconvert movies (at least best I can tell) but that's not the worst thing in the world and you can't change resolutions at the touch of the button, but for what's you're getting, I think it's a nice package.

So if you consider a Blu-Ray DVD player can cost as much as $1,500 alone, maybe ol' PS3 -- for those interested in such things -- is looking like a better bargain. Now if you're buying strictly to beat your buddies online in Madden, well, it's still an awfully expensive game machine.

2K FOOTBALL COMING SOON

It looks like cult favorite 2K Football is coming back, three years after Electronic Arts signed an exclusive deal with the NFL that knocked the title off store shelves.

EA's agreement made Madden the only licensed NFL game. When that happened Sega sold Visual Concepts, the studio that made 2K, to Take-Two Interactive. Take-Two started 2K Sports and released hockey, baseball and pro basketball titles.

Visual Concepts now is ready to get back into football, president Greg Thomas told the GameSpot website. Look for All-Pro Football 2K8 on next generation video game systems this summer.

Thomas is tight on details but rumors floating say the game will feature former pro players, though that would require 2K to sign licensing agreements with every old player featured. It could work, though, and might be better than generic players. I'm sure some gamers would rather use generic players and assign them real-life names and numbers on their own.

We'll see what happens. Bottom line, Madden will have some competition this fall and I know a lot of gamers out there are loving that fact.

Planning to try Vista, let me know how it goes

You going to try Vista today?

I'm on the fence about trying Microsoft's new operating system. I ran the company's diagnostic tool last week to see if my Dell laptop had enough horsepower to handle the complex new program. It does and now I'm in a quandry.

I want the new promised speed and security, but my setup -- while sometimes a bit, um, "cloggy" -- works well. XP is the most reliable version of Windows I've ever tried.

So I'm watching Billy Gates on the Today show and he's talking about how Vista is so secure, how I can keep tabs on what the kids are doing, how the internet is going to revolutionize TV and I'm darn near ready to go to CompUSA and pull out the Visa Gold.

But then I get an email from David Milman, founder of RescueCom, an independent national computer reapir and technology company.

Milman says I should not buy Vista and neither should you. Not right now.

He says we should wait for the glitches to be worked out. Gates said the product was tested by five million people and is ready to roll.

"While the hype surrounding Vista is in many ways justified, we are urging the tens of thousands of businesses and home computer users we service to take a wait and see approach," Milman said. "Sometimes the latest is not necessarily the greatest and we'd hate some minor glitch to result in major headaches for our customers or anyone else."

Milman says we should wait six months before we jump headfirst into Vista.

"Allow the early users to discover the flaws and weaknesses and allow Microsoft to perfect this exciting product before blindly and enthusiastically placing your computers and your data in its care," Milman said.

I'm still on the fence, but if any of you jump in, please let me know how it goes for you.

Midway Readies First Person Shooter for PC/Next Gen Consoles

Midway Games Inc. announced BlackSite: Area 51, an action packed, first person shooter experience which pits gamers against alien enemy forces using the infamous U.S. government landmark, Area 51, and the surrounding areas as the battlefield backdrop. BlackSite: Area 51 is currently in development for the PS3, Xbox 360 and Microsoft PCs.

The game is set in present day and players take the role of a decorated military veteran charged by the government to lead a squadron of “secret soldiers,” each with his/her own specialty skill set, into the Rachel, Nevada area to fight off the invasion of unidentified enemy races.

Countdown To Super Bowl Online

Beginning Wednesday, CBSsportsline.com will present a 30-minute Super Bowl pregame show shot on location in Miami.

"Countdown to Super Bowl" will be hosted by eight-year NFL veteran and CBS Sports reporter Spencer Tillman, former NFL personnel executive and now NFL.com analyst Pat Kirwan and former NFL General Manager and now part of The NFL Today on CBS Sports, Charley Casserly.

The show, which will appear online daily no later than 6 p.m., will feature the latest news, interviews and expert analysis surrounding Super Bowl XLI, including special guests such as Hall of Fame quarterback and analyst for The NFL Today on CBS Dan Marino, Hall of Fame running back and Most Valuable Player of Super Bowl IX Franco Harris, Hall of Fame quarterback Warren Moon, former All-Pro tight end and analyst for The NFL Today on CBS Shannon Sharpe and "Mercury" Morris, the starting running back for the historic 1972 undefeated Miami Dolphins.

Daily Schedule of Guests on "Cadillac Countdown to Super Bowl"

Wednesday, January 31st
Former All-Pro tight end and analyst for The NFL Today on CBS Shannon Sharpe; The starting running back for the historic 1972 undefeated Miami Dolphins, "Mercury" Morris

Thursday, February 1st
Hall of Fame quarterback and analyst for The NFL Today on CBS Dan Marino; Hall of Fame running back and Most Valuable Player of Super Bowl IX Franco Harris

Friday, February 2nd
Hall of Fame quarterback Warren Moon
New York Giants LB Antonio Pierce
Baltimore Ravens LB Bart Scott

Saturday, February 3rd
Buffalo Bills WR Lee Evans
Arizona Cardinals Head Coach Ken Whisenhunt
Boxers Oscar De La Hoya and Floyd Mayweather, Jr.

Complete PGA Tour Season In HD

The PGA Tour announced that all broadcast network coverage in 2007 will be presented in high definition for the first time, beginning with last weekend's coverage of the Buick Invitational on CBS.

Under the new six-year deals, tour network partners CBS and NBC will provide exclusive weekend broadcast network coverage and will telecast all of their coverage during the inaugural FedExCup points competition in high definition. In addition, all live early-round Golf Channel coverage for these events will be simulcast on the new Versus Golf HD Channel. In total, 29 PGA TOUR events and approximately 440 hours of action will be broadcast in high definition by the three television partners.

“Golf is the ideal subject for showcasing the power of the HD format. It enhances the viewing experience more for the PGA Tour than for any other sport,” said Gil Kerr, Senior Vice President of Broadcasting, Programming and Productions for the PGA Tour. “One of the most attractive aspects of the game to our viewers is the spectacular places we play – the famous 7th hole at Pebble Beach, the majestic beauty of Amen Corner and the water-lined closing holes at The Player's Championship.

"Golf is not simply about players playing each other; it is about players battling the course. HDTV will capture the challenge of every course like never before – whether it’s a towering drive on a driveable Par 4, a buried lie in a greenside bunker or a tee shot on a windy day at the famous island green at TPC Sawgrass.”

Dubya In HD on HD Net Tuesday

Cable network HD Net will provide live HDTV coverage of President Bush's state of the union address Tuesday at 8 p.m.

The coverage, hosted by Dan Rather, will include the Democratic response to the President’s Address and an interview with Democratic Presidential candidate John Edwards.

Immediately following the Democratic response, the network will go to
Dallas, Texas, where HDNet World Report Chief Correspondent Greg Dobbs will lead a spirited discussion among Americans with varied personal and political viewpoints.

Play 3D Golf In Real Time With Live TV

Some of the coolest technology I've heard of lately is the new Golf Launchpad/XTV Experience, which allows users to play along with their favorite golfers during televised tournaments.

While watching a PGA tour event on television, viewers can use the Golf Launchpad/XTV Experience to virtually play and compete with their own clubs, on the same course, at the same time – and all from the comfort of their own home.

XTV Ready is plug-and-play software that makes DVRs the center of the home entertainment network by simplifying content transfer. It enables subscribers to download content securely to a variety of CE devices – such as a game console – using a USB port on the set-top box. With XTV Ready, subscribers can enjoy a wider range of services while operators increase revenues for better ROI on their content.

By connecting the XTV Ready DVR to Golf Launchpad, together these companies have created an entirely new gaming experience.

Golf Launchpad/XTV Experience will be available in June of 2007 from local cable and satellite TV providers.

Epson Projectors Hope To Make Big-Screen TV easier

The Epson MovieMate 30/33 ($999) is ta projector video and music player combo that delivers a cinematic, big-screen experience, high quality audio and easy setup for use in a variety of locations.

Epson MovieMate comes with everything viewers need to create an instant home theater: a projector with superior LCD picture quality; an integrated JVC DVD/CD player that reads multiple video, audio and photo formats; sound by JVC, with built-in stereo speakers and illuminated remote control.

Just plug in a power cord to easily enjoy widescreen movies, video games, sports, digital photos and music CDs anytime - and in virtually any location.

Epson's Home Cinema 400 ($1,599) is designed for professional home theater and AV enthusiasts. Its 16:9 wide panel format features Epson's 3LCD micro display projection technology for superior color quality and video performance. The projector is a premium, yet economical HD front projector, which includes 720p native resolution, 5000:1 contrast ratio, and brightness up to 1500 ANSI lumens. The PowerLite Cinema 400 ensures a true high definition experience, with advanced video processing and maximum installation flexibility.

Local Gamer Wins Madden Challenge

The best Madden gamer in the Charlotte region, at least this year, is Brian Armstrong of Charlotte. Armstrong won the Madden Challenge regional tournament in Charlotte this month and has advanced to the Madden Challenge finals.

The finals take place during Pro Bowl week next month in Honolulu, Hawaii, and Armstrong will compete for $100,000 grand prize.

Armstrong is one of 31 regional and international winners to advance to the finals.


“Gears of War” Juggernaut Tops 3 Million Units Sold

Xbox 360 stalwart Gears of War has gone triple platinum, reaching the 3 million-units-sold milestone in just 10 weeks on store shelves, ending 2006 as the top-selling game among all platforms during December.

Gears is the fastest-selling title of 2006 and the fastest-selling original exclusive Xbox game of all time.

Since the downloadable content’s release via Xbox Live Marketplace less than two weeks ago, the new maps have garnered an astounding 750,000 downloads. There have been more than 1.5 million total downloads of all “Gears of War” content currently available via Marketplace.

Not just a gaming sensation, the acclaimed “Gears of War: Mad World” cinematic trailer was featured in Advertising Age’s Book of Tens as one of the top creative concepts of 2006. With more than 2.4 million views of the trailer online, the campaign has inspired not only tremendous sales, but also a number of hilarious parody videos currently circulating around the Internet.

Crackdown Goes Gold

Microsoft Game Studios announced that the highly anticipated action title Crackdown has gone gold. From developer Realtime Worlds and the mind of acclaimed creator Dave Jones, Crackdown hits store shelves Feb. 20. Price is $59.99.

The game offers gamers the opportunity to take down the gangs of Pacific City in a massive, single-player campaign or with a friend over the title’s cooperative mode via Xbox Live.

“The excitement for ‘Crackdown’ is evident through the significant number of pre-orders and affirms the continued Xbox 360 momentum in 2007,” said Jeff Bell, corporate vice president of Global Marketing in the Interactive Entertainment Business Entertainment and Devices Division at Microsoft Corp.

Those gamers anxious to get an early glimpse at the title will be able to enjoy the Crackdown demo available through Xbox Live Marketplace this month. And, as previously announced, Crackdown fans will be offered a special bonus with the purchase of each specially marked copy: access to the coveted Halo 3 multiplayer beta program.*

Bible Society Survey Says You Want Less Violent Games

A recent study by the American Bible Socity and the American Bible Society First Amendment Poll shows that a small majority of video game consumers want less violent video games.

Imagine that.

A total of 9,095 people were polled recently by Zogby International and The American Bible Society, one of America’s leading authorities on the Holy Scriptures, and 51% of those polled felt that the entertainment world should develop games containing positive messages and even refer to God and the Bible.

The study entitled “What Is More Offensive On Television: Religion Or Sex And Violence?” proved that 21% of Americans felt that future programs should be free of sex and murder. Of those polled, 83% said they are not offended by references to God or the Bible on network television.

Atomic Tank For Xbox Live Easy and Fun

PopCap Games has released Heavy Weapon on Xbox Live Arcade on the Xbox 360. The new version features new multiplayer Mission and Survival modes, as well as an all-new “Boss Rush” mode, leader boards, high-definition graphics and other features and is available exclusively on Xbox Live Arcade. Available now for 800 Microsoft Points, Heavy Weapon can be played in trial mode prior to purchase.

“Our goal with Heavy Weapon was to make a game in the vein of the old collaborative-style arcade games like Ikari Warriors, where you and a friend could play together as a team, just enjoying the visceral sensation of blowing lots of stuff up,” said Jason Kapalka, Chief Creative Officer at PopCap. “We spent a lot of time revamping Heavy Weapon for Xbox Live Arcade, and I think it shows; the game plays and looks better, and works beautifully with the Xbox 360 controller. We haven’t been able to stop playing the beta version here in our offices, so it should be well received by the XBLA masses!”

A quick review shows the game is simply to play and pretty to look at. It's a side-scrolling game, which seemed a bit too much of an old-school throwback, but the missions are simple: eliminate the enemy which attacks you in tanks, jeeps, fighter jets and helicopters.

There are 19 missions into several countries and six secret weapons. Be sure you find them before your enemy does or, well, you'll see.

By nature, it's violent but the multiplayer modes make it fun to go off and play new friends from all over. I'd rate it a solid B.

El Matador On Gamer's Gate

Gamers Gate announced "El Matador" ($19.99) is available on its digital platform. The game gives players a chance to become "El Matador", a DEA special agent tasked with taking down the drug barons.

A new narcotics cartel is rising across Central and South America, sharpening its claws and extending its reach. Locate the encampments, infiltrate the headquarters, and put an end to the cartel's influence. In a tale of corruption, revenge and morality, the mission brief is simple: Eliminate the threat – Ultimate justice, "El Matador" style.

Game features include:
- Hard-hitting, movie-style storyline
- Huge arsenal of realistic weapons
- Diverse South American settings, from lush jungle to mansions and harbours- Real physics, interactive environments and destructible objects- Gang members, clan bosses, kingpins, and many more villainous enemies- Atmospheric engine animations bring the scenery to life

Big Brother Game Now Available For Your Cellie

If you've been dying to play CBS' "Big Brother" on your mobile phone, now is your chance. The game, which will allow you to play with your favorite house guests from the show, is available for download at botme.com for $2.99.

In this action game, players take on the role of an uninvited visitor
and go on a mission to explore a model of the Big Brother house and
set up spy cameras. If players are caught by one of the
simulated house guests then they will be punished and must either clean
the virtual toilet or do the dishes and then they will be kicked out of
the Big Brother model house.

Elder Scross IV Expansion Upcoming

Bethesda Softworks has confirmed the upcoming release of The Elder Scrolls IV: Shivering Isles, the official expansion for the award-winning The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion. Shivering Isles will be released for Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and Windows this Spring. Details are presented in the exclusive cover story for Official Xbox Magazine’s (US) February issue, which hits newsstands this week.

Shivering Isles features more than 30 hours of new gameplay and allows you to explore an entirely new plane of Oblivion – the realm of Sheogorath, the Daedric Prince of Madness. Shivering Isles adds to the existing world of Oblivion so you can continue playing with your existing save game/character, or create an all new character just to explore the new content.

GAMETAP LAUNCHES NEW WORLD FOR “MYST”

In preparation of the highly anticipated early 2007 release of “Myst Online: Uru Live”, GameTap will release a new area of the city and a never-before-seen Age Friday, January 19.

GameTap, an entertainment television network, also announced that a Macintosh compatible version of Myst Online is in active development and will bring the world of Uru to Macintosh users for the first time.

The “Myst Online: Uru Live” preview storyline continues to build with last week’s introduction of Cate Alexander. Cate’s appearance has had a significant effect on the D’ni Restoration Council (DRC) and the cavern restoration effort as a whole, as evidenced by the recent opening of several city areas. That pattern continues with the opening of more city areas, including the Great Zero, and the restoration of an all-new Age, which explorers can visit for the first time ever.

NCAA March Madness Ships

NCAA March Madness 07 features Adam Morrison of the NBA Charlotte Bobcats on its cover and is available on Xbox 360 and PlayStation2 .

This year the home crowd will have more of an effect on the game, like in real life, and players will become effected by the pressure or pumped up by the intensity.

The all-new Intensity Control that changes momentum by allowing you to pump up the crowd, motivate your teammates, raise your own composure or even intimidate your opponent. Plus, become immersed like never before by interacting with student sections, school mascots, cheerleaders, and even the band.

The game offers custom playbooks for each team through the Floor General Playcalling system, the EA SPORTS Lockdown Stick that allows your players to pressure the ball, force turnovers and pester opponents on the court, and an enhanced Dynasty Mode with new School Pride and Recruiting features that let you build your school into a national powerhouse.

The game features 325 Division I universities and colleges and the popular voices of college basketball with ESPN’s Dick Vitale and Brad Nessler calling the action courtside.

Bible Society Survey Says You Want Less Violent Games

A recent study by the American Bible Socity and the American Bible Society First Amendment Poll shows that a small majority of video game consumers want less violent video games.

Imagine that.

A total of 9,095 people were polled recently by Zogby International and The American Bible Society, one of America’s leading authorities on the Holy Scriptures, and 51% of those polled felt that the entertainment world should develop games containing positive messages and even refer to God and the Bible.

The study entitled “What Is More Offensive On Television: Religion Or Sex And Violence?” proved that 21% of Americans felt that future programs should be free of sex and murder. Of those polled, 83% said they are not offended by references to God or the Bible on network television.

Atomic Tank For Xbox Live Easy and Fun

PopCap Games has released Heavy Weapon on Xbox Live Arcade on the Xbox 360. The new version features new multiplayer Mission and Survival modes, as well as an all-new “Boss Rush” mode, leader boards, high-definition graphics and other features and is available exclusively on Xbox Live Arcade. Available now for 800 Microsoft Points, Heavy Weapon can be played in trial mode prior to purchase.

“Our goal with Heavy Weapon was to make a game in the vein of the old collaborative-style arcade games like Ikari Warriors, where you and a friend could play together as a team, just enjoying the visceral sensation of blowing lots of stuff up,” said Jason Kapalka, Chief Creative Officer at PopCap. “We spent a lot of time revamping Heavy Weapon for Xbox Live Arcade, and I think it shows; the game plays and looks better, and works beautifully with the Xbox 360 controller. We haven’t been able to stop playing the beta version here in our offices, so it should be well received by the XBLA masses!”

A quick review shows the game is simply to play and pretty to look at. It's a side-scrolling game, which seemed a bit too much of an old-school throwback, but the missions are simple: eliminate the enemy which attacks you in tanks, jeeps, fighter jets and helicopters.

There are 19 missions into several countries and six secret weapons. Be sure you find them before your enemy does or, well, you'll see.

By nature, it's violent but the multiplayer modes make it fun to go off and play new friends from all over. I'd rate it a solid B.

El Matador On Gamer's Gate

Gamers Gate announced "El Matador" ($19.99) is available on its digital platform. The game gives players a chance to become "El Matador", a DEA special agent tasked with taking down the drug barons.

A new narcotics cartel is rising across Central and South America, sharpening its claws and extending its reach. Locate the encampments, infiltrate the headquarters, and put an end to the cartel's influence. In a tale of corruption, revenge and morality, the mission brief is simple: Eliminate the threat – Ultimate justice, "El Matador" style.

Game features include:
- Hard-hitting, movie-style storyline
- Huge arsenal of realistic weapons
- Diverse South American settings, from lush jungle to mansions and harbours- Real physics, interactive environments and destructible objects- Gang members, clan bosses, kingpins, and many more villainous enemies- Atmospheric engine animations bring the scenery to life

Big Brother Game Now Available For Your Cellie

If you've been dying to play CBS' "Big Brother" on your mobile phone, now is your chance. The game, which will allow you to play with your favorite house guests from the show, is available for download at botme.com for $2.99.

In this action game, players take on the role of an uninvited visitor
and go on a mission to explore a model of the Big Brother house and
set up spy cameras. If players are caught by one of the
simulated house guests then they will be punished and must either clean
the virtual toilet or do the dishes and then they will be kicked out of
the Big Brother model house.

Elder Scross IV Expansion Upcoming

Bethesda Softworks has confirmed the upcoming release of The Elder Scrolls IV: Shivering Isles, the official expansion for the award-winning The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion. Shivering Isles will be released for Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and Windows this Spring. Details are presented in the exclusive cover story for Official Xbox Magazine’s (US) February issue, which hits newsstands this week.

Shivering Isles features more than 30 hours of new gameplay and allows you to explore an entirely new plane of Oblivion – the realm of Sheogorath, the Daedric Prince of Madness. Shivering Isles adds to the existing world of Oblivion so you can continue playing with your existing save game/character, or create an all new character just to explore the new content.

GAMETAP LAUNCHES NEW WORLD FOR “MYST”

In preparation of the highly anticipated early 2007 release of “Myst Online: Uru Live”, GameTap will release a new area of the city and a never-before-seen Age Friday, January 19.

GameTap, an entertainment television network, also announced that a Macintosh compatible version of Myst Online is in active development and will bring the world of Uru to Macintosh users for the first time.

The “Myst Online: Uru Live” preview storyline continues to build with last week’s introduction of Cate Alexander. Cate’s appearance has had a significant effect on the D’ni Restoration Council (DRC) and the cavern restoration effort as a whole, as evidenced by the recent opening of several city areas. That pattern continues with the opening of more city areas, including the Great Zero, and the restoration of an all-new Age, which explorers can visit for the first time ever.

NCAA March Madness Ships

NCAA March Madness 07 features Adam Morrison of the NBA Charlotte Bobcats on its cover and is available on Xbox 360 and PlayStation2 .

This year the home crowd will have more of an effect on the game, like in real life, and players will become effected by the pressure or pumped up by the intensity.

The all-new Intensity Control that changes momentum by allowing you to pump up the crowd, motivate your teammates, raise your own composure or even intimidate your opponent. Plus, become immersed like never before by interacting with student sections, school mascots, cheerleaders, and even the band.

The game offers custom playbooks for each team through the Floor General Playcalling system, the EA SPORTS Lockdown Stick that allows your players to pressure the ball, force turnovers and pester opponents on the court, and an enhanced Dynasty Mode with new School Pride and Recruiting features that let you build your school into a national powerhouse.

The game features 325 Division I universities and colleges and the popular voices of college basketball with ESPN’s Dick Vitale and Brad Nessler calling the action courtside.

Get Your Hi-Def Fix In Every Room Of The House

OK, so you've got your Hi-Def TV and you're amazed at just how sharp Jack Bauer looks on Fox's "24" or how you can see every single inch of makeup of the faces of the anchors of "Good Morning America."

Now, you just want your HDTV fix in more places.

Avocent Corporation has what it's calling the industry's first wireless high-definition media extender providing both wired and wireless connectivity in one product.

This is a cool emerging technology that's going to have good uses in the future. Right now, it seems a bit pricey for the average consumer and you must have multiple hi-def sources (computers, TVs) to make use of the technology, but being able to only rent on HD-Box from DirecTV or DISH or Time Warner cable might prove to be a cost-saving option for some people, or even being able to start watching a broadcast in the den and finish in the bedroom, might be a big convience.

The Emerge MPX1000 HD Multipoint Extender incorporates high-definition multimedia interface (HDMI) technology for moving high-definition content from one source to multiple destinations.

High resolution computer graphics up to 1280 x 768, HD video up to 720p, stereo audio, and control data are wirelessly transmitted to as many as eight wireless or wired receivers.

"This breakthrough," said Mitch Friend, senior vice president and general manager of Avocent. in audio-video delivery is a step towards meeting the market's push for higher resolutions by providing true digital picture and sound content delivery to displays for presentation and digital signage applications."

The MPX1000 includes a transmitter and receiver that provide feature rich, high-definition media support for use in professional audio-visual applications. The Emerge MPX1000 extension product extends video and audio over standard 10/100 Ethernet wiring up to 3000 feet and wirelessly through walls up to 150 feet, or up to 1000 feet line of sight with optional directional antenna.

The MPX1000 extender solution is accessible through two primary user interfaces: an on-board web server that allows browser-based unit control and configuration, and a front panel display that provides push-button access to system status. The extenders allow for control of attached audio-visual equipment through RS-232 serial and infrared connections.

Components of the wireless HD extender solution include a transmitter priced at $1,095 (MSRP), a receiver priced at $995 (MSRP), and a transmitter module and receiver module priced at $195 (MSRP) each.

Universal Readies Digital Comic to Promote Film

Are we ready for digital comic books?

Universal Pictures and Planetwide Media are launching a Smokin' Aces digital comic to help promote the feature film on the same name that drops Jan. 26 and stars Ben Affleck, Alicia Keys and rapper Common along with the real star of HBO's "Entourage," Jeremy "Ari Gold" Piven.

The 30-page comic includes six stories written by Smokin' Aces writer/director Joe Carnahan, with illustrations by IDW Publishing.

The movie has, what producers call, "interlocking tales of high stakes and low lifes," including a Mob boss Primo Sparazza who has taken out a hefty contract on Buddy "Aces" Israel (Piven) -- a sleazy magician who has agreed to turn state's evidence against the Vegas mob. The FBI, sensing a chance to use this small-time con to bring down big-target Sparazza, places Aces into protective custody -- under the supervision of two agents dispatched to Aces' Lake Tahoe hideout.

For me, this will be a must-see -- in the summer or fall on HBO. The comic? Probably will pass on it, too.

Football On Your Cell Phone

If you can't to get home to get your Madden videogame fix, Gameloft has Reggie Bush Football available to play on your cellie.

The publishers claim the game will "redefine how players experience football on their cell phones. With all new offensive moves and exclusive quarterback passing controls, players can participate in sixteen full games on a textured field with high-quality graphics."

Me? I think the screen might be a little small.

EA Launches New The Sims Titles

Electronic Arts is The Sims Stories, laptop-friendly games that will feature engaging characters and easy-to-play storylines.

The Sims Stories games are the latest offering from the popular Sims franchise, which has been translated into 22 languages and sold more than 70 million games worldwide.

The Sims Stories, introduces an all-new Story Mode with two stories that follow the lives of Riley Harlow and Vincent Moore, two very different characters who have reached similar crossroads in their love lives. Players can take their Sims through unique and entertaining storylines filled with romance, intrigue and dramatic twists. Will female lead character Riley ditch beau number one to marry and have kids with beau number two? Will successful entrepreneur Vince ever find love, or the culprit who’s been foiling his heart-earned efforts to find it?

“Everyone loves a good story. The Sims Life Stories gives players two wonderful romantic comedies to enjoy,” declared Rod Humble, VP Head of Studio for The Sims Division. “For those who are interested in The Sims, The Sims Stories are accessible and fun for everyone.”

Ace Attorney Justice Hits DS

Capcom has released Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney Justice For All for the Nintendo DS. The second game in the court room battle series from Japan introduces four new cases featuring new characters, plot twists and gameplay features. Players resume the role of Phoenix Wright, a defense attorney who must prove his client’s innocence against the toughest of odds and most ruthless of adversaries.

Players must exercise their legal prowess as they collect evidence, examine witnesses, analyze testimonies and seek the truth to ensure that justice prevails. The game is characterized by its memorable characters, engaging storylines and unique gameplay format, all presented in a comical anime style.

Looking for alternatives to Xbox, Wii or PS3?

Believe it or not, there are some console videogame alternatives to the big three consoles from Sony, Microsoft and Nintendo.

The new GameWave system is affordable at as little as $79 from some retailers and includes four remotes. Graphically it's more along the lines of the original PlayStation but offers a change of pace from traditional games.

The unit also plays DVDs.

The console, which includes a plastic case to hold the controllers, is easy to hook up and play. Each remote comes with batteries included. Games like 4 Degrees offer family fun via trivia questions where speed is just as important as accuracy. It's kind of Jeopardy-lite. A new version of 4 Degrees, Vol 2, offers a Pop Culture trivia game that will probably get your teenagers talking to you more.

REWIND 2005 looks back at the biggest news events of the past year and Zap 21 is a pretty-fun-to-play version of Blackjack that you can play without losing your shirt.

Nothing about this system screams hi-tech, but that is not the goal. It's simple family entertainment, where most games are like video multiple choice.

The DVD player works well, so if you're in the market for a basic DVD player, it might be worth it to give this system a try. Don't like it? You still can play DVDs on it.

With games at $24.99, this is a console that might be an alternative for a family looking for something other -- or something cheaper -- than PlayStation3, X-360 or Wii (Grade: B-minus).

Leapster TV: A step beyond the award-winning hand-held videogame, this console system brings the Leapstar to the big screen. Leapster is an excellent series of instructional games aimed at kids.

The purple game console will store six game cartridges and comes with a Dora The Explorer pinata party cartridge that helps teach phonics and letters. If my 2-year-old is any indication, this is memerizing for the little ones.

The joystick is appropriately large for small hands and has a joystick. A touch pad and stylus on the controller helps with writing skills during game play.

There are a variety of games to play with the system. We tried Leapster L-Max, which combines a race game and math skills plus use of time. Your kid is having fun racing and learning time at the same time. And it works.

The Backyardigans features characters from the popular kids show and helps with letters and phonics plus numbers and memorization. Another title, Animal Genius, was my little one's favorite, since he was learning about animals as he played (Combined Grade: A).

The Fly: This is another cool innovation from the people who brought you the Leapster. The Fly is a pen that is really a pretty powerful computer. It's got an optical scanner that "sees" everything you write on special "Fly paper." It's also got a voice.

The pen can help with math problems and help you remember to clean your room. It's a neat gift for anyone, say, 8 to 13. Games like Harry Potter, Interactive Marauder, will test skill by having you use your virtual pen to navigate maps and answer questions correctly.

Playing the popular Sudoku puzzle game with the Fly allows you to play faster (and repeat play really fast). There are more than 200 puzzles to solve, and even big kids -- like me -- will have fun with this one.

My favorite game, though, was Fly Through Algebra, that is basically an algebra tutor available whenever you need it. Designed for grades 6 through 9, the fly computer will actually help you figure out what X equals. Every time. It's a fun way to learn (Overall Grade: A-minus).

Top 10 Games For Christmas, plus Metal Gear Solid Still Going Strong

Here are the top 10 must-have videogames for the holidays.

1. Wii Sports: The game of the year comes free with the Nintendo Wii system and allows you to swing your controller like a baseball bat in baseball, swing your arm like you're bowling in bowling. Same with tennis and boxing. Just pure family fun. It's amazing nobody had thought of a controller like this -- and a game like this -- until now.

2. Call Of Duty 3: One of the most beautiful games I've ever seen (I prefer it on PS3). With the intense graphics and action, you'll feel like you're part of the combat during the Normady breakout, which helped liberate Paris during World War II.

3. Metal Gear Solid, Portable OPS: See PSP game's review below. Just wow.

4. Madden NFL 07: The PS3 and 360 versions look great, but its the Nintendo Wii version you've got to try. Using the wand controller, you'll be throwing and tackling in brand new ways.

5. Resistance Of Man: Sony's answer to Call of Duty is one of the best-looking PS3 games of the year. It takes you to an alternate universe for a 1950s battle against an army of really gross looking aliens who are bent on taking control of the earth.

6. Eragon: Based on the futuristic Hollywood movie of the same name, this game is deep and beautiful and made me look at my X-360 in a whole new way. And fighting dragons has never been this much fun or looked so good.

7. Excite Truck: Another Wii winner. You turn your "Wii-mote" sideways and watch the fun start as you twist and turn through a variety of realistic-looking tracks. Controlling the truck is hard enough and the sound is very realistic, too. You'll have hours of fun with this, especially in multi-player mode.

8. NBA 2K7: The best overall sports title for any next-gen console. Madden on Wii is more fun to play but on PS3 and X-360 (especially PS3), you might mistake playing this for watching a real game. Controls are excellent and post play is more realistic than ever. Warning: don't start an 82-game season. You'll find that you'll be dying to finish.

9. Mario Kart: No better DS game to be had. Just pure fun and easy to play. Hey, it's Mario!

10. Gears Of War: Beautiful action game that has sold more than two million copies on X-360. It's violent and rated Mature. You play as a wrongfully jailed hero who is busted out of prison in the future and fight an evil group of aliens called the Locust. Trust me. Get this.

REVIEWS

One of my favorite videogames of all time is Metal Gear Solid, and I was very excited to try Metal Gear Solid: Portable OPS on PSP.

This picks up where Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater (a game I've never played) ended. So I was a little lost starting out, but once you get going, you'll quickly fall into the James Bond-like storyline and several mini-games like Death Match and Capture Mission.

For me, though, the storyline is the thing. The lead character, Solid Snake, finds himself on a top-secret mission in South America in 1970. He's captured by a group of his former friends and rescued by a Green Beret, who tries to help Solid Snake stop a rogue Russian mission.

The game is beautifully drawn, perhaps the best drawn game ever on PSP and I loved the controls, like being able to flatten your back against a wall to peek around a corner. This is a must-have title for PSP this Christmas.

Superman Returns: Boy, it sure is cool to fly and this new game from Electronic Arts looks simply beautiful on Xbox 360. Superman has simple missions: save his city, save the world. He stops meteors and puts out fires and fights familiar enemies like Bizarro and Metallo using his heat vision, freeze breath and super speed and strength.

Controls for me were a bit difficult to learn. I'm not one for reading manuals, admittedly, but it took forever how to figure out which controller buttons to use to hover up and down, forward and back. Once you master it and the simple changes for super speed and Supe's different powers, playing this Teen-rated game is fun.

I didn't get through the whole thing, but I only saw Clark Kent and Lois Lane in cut scenes, which was strange and even though the 80-square mile Metropolis is about as huge a world as I've ever seen in a videogame, you cannot fly underwater or really interact with all objects. So instead of crushing through a building wall, you just bounce off of it.

The missions, however simple, inject a feeling of desparation. Meteors or bad guys are destroying the city. Since only bright green rocks can hurt you, this game mostly ends when the city takes on too much damage. Graphically, this title looked wonderful on the 32-inch LCD HDTV I tried it on and the soundtrack was movie quality. This one had me going for days. If I didn't have 2,007 more games to check out, I'd be playing this one for a long time (Grade: B-plus).

Brothers In Arms: D Day: Ubisoft delivers yet another war game for the PSP, placing games on the night before D Day when the 101st Airborne parachuted behind enemy lines in Normandy.

You play as Matt Baker and Joe Hartsock, trying to successfully lead the invasion. What makes this one somewhat unique is that you play or fight in actual battle zones. Via Wi-Fi, you can team up with other PSP users or face them. You've seen a lot of these battle games by now, and even though this one looks good and has a good storyline, there are several killer options in this genre that would make this a tough must-get. It is a nice change-of-pace for fans of this genre (Grade: B-minus).

Castlevania, Portrait of Ruin: Its been 20 years since this vampire-hunting game debuted. This Nintendo DS version is rated T for teen due to some serious blood and gore, suggestive themes and violence.

You can take control of two heroes, vampire killer Jonathan, or his girlfriend, Charlotte, who has a special magical ability (to reveal which might ruin the plot). The graphics are somewhat cartoonish but make no mistake this is a "serious" game with a dark plot line. You basically destroy all vampires in your path, or try to, as you try to keep the dark forces from re-emerging.

I enjoyed playing, and the two-player control adds a new dimension to an old favorite, but I wouldn't let my 7-year-old within 20 feet of this (Grade: B-minus).

College Hoops 2K7 Feels Like Campus

It's college basketball season and the one college basketball game I've tried, thankfully, is excellent.

2K Sports' College Hoops 2K7 looks good on X-360 (though I'm curious to see how good the PS3 version will be) and plays better.

The game is totally college. You can create your own chants or just allow your favorite college fight songs to play. The crowds really come to life during gameplay and the gyms look just like the real thing, down to the fans crowding the court at Cameron Indoor Stadium.

A few coaches, like North Carolina's Roy Williams, are digitized into the game, otherwise, you'll get the same brown-haired guy who claps a lot and says the same things over and over in cut scenes of the pregame locker room.

Team unity is important and every player's performance can help your team play better.

I love a new mode in timeouts that quickly allows you to change defenses, double-team players or set priorities. In legacy mode, you can recruit new players, check out the postseason brackets and even see a new highlight show. And via Xbox live, gamers can mirror the real life tournament matchups and play for a chance to attend the 2007 Final Four. All in all, a very, very solid title. This feels like campus (Grade: B-plus).

SOCOM: US Navy Seals Combined Assault: The game was built in association with the U.S. Naval Special Warfare Command Unit, so you know when you're asked to swim 500 yards, run 1.5 miles, do 42 push-ups, 50 sit-ups and six pull-ups in an hour, well, it's the real McCoy.

I was disappointed graphically in the PS2 and PSP versions, but that may be due to playing so many games in hi-def lately on PS3 and X-360. The storyline and gameplay, however, were fantastic. Your mission is to protect the country from enemy forces in rural and urban environments. You can play online with four players, which was kind of cool. I liked playing alone in my living room and turning the stereo way up. You'll see and feel war all around you.

Better still you can choose how you engage an enemy and enemies behave more like real people and not robodrones who do the same thing every time. Very impressive, and can't wait to see this on PS3 (Grade: B-plus).

SingStar Rocks: This is one of the best party games I've tried in awhile. On PS2, you get two high quality microphones to sing into and you can also use your EyeToy to put yourself onto the video screen.

The game includes song and videos from current artists and you sing along in solo, freestyle and even battle modes with friends. I wish there were more music to choose from, but you'll find more than a few songs to have fun with. The cool thing is to put yourself in the video where Janet or Britney or Mariah would be. Better yet, Gloria Gaynor's favorite "I Will Survive" is in the game. About the only thing missing is Simon Cowell to tell you how bad you sound. Pure fun (Grade: A-minus).

NBA 07: Simply beautiful on Sony's PS3 machine, this NBA sim allows players to download five game scenarios weekly involving real NBA teams from real NBA games and attempt to replay those moments. Think of it as an interactive SportsCenter.

All the NBA teams and players are here. This game isn't as good as 2K Sports' NBA offering, but it looks so good you can get caught up just watching. Control of players is good and the feature to download real-life situations is cool, plus you can play many from the 2005-06 NBA season. Ultimately, though, sports games come down to how well the action is. This one, however beautiful, has good control and TV-style presentation, but if you only have the cash for one hoop title, your money should go to 2K (Grade: B).

Tiger Woods PGA Tour 07: The PlayStation 3 version is slightly better looking than the X-360 version we tried earlier this fall. I miss the rumble control in the PS3 controller, something that helped make this game seem more real, having the controller vibrate during tough shots. Sony needs to bring that back.

What I do like about this game is the new training facility, which allows you to really hone your skills and since you start out as a guy who can't hit it far enough to really compete without a great short game, you'll need this area.

There are six new courses, including British Open stalwart St. Andrews, and 15 licensed golfers, including Annika Sorenstam and John Daly. Swinging with the familiar PS controller is easier than on X-360, though the control is sensitive. You'll hit a few in the weeds before you figure it out. Tapping the L1 button for more power while trying to keep the ball straight is difficult, which is a good thing. A golf sim, by nature, should not be easy.

You can choose one of several difficulty settings but a new feature, reactive difficulty, will toughen the conditions if you're regularly going too low. You can also look for some ESPN intergration into the game with tickers and news and radio updates.

All those features are nice, but the super-deep create-a-golfer is almost a game unto itself. You pick out how much overbite you want your guy to have, whether or not he has a scar. My only quibble? Black folks look awful shiny.

EA Sports hasn't left anything out of an excellent game. There are mini-games and the golf season now features the playoff, just like the real thing. It's addictive to try to get yourself onto the money list alongside familiar big names, and the major championship venues, like Pinehurst No. 2, are so accurate its scary.

This is a must-have on PS3, solid in every way (Grade: A).

Is Nintendo's new controller a house hazard?

By now, you have probably read about reports of the Nintendo Wii controller doing damage to plasma screens worldwide.

Apparently, some avid gamers are swinging the "Wii-mote" so hard and so fast -- after finding out that hand speed is mirrored with on-screen results -- that the little white controller sometimes slips out of their hands and becomes an in-home scud missile that can leave your 52-inch LCD with a crack in it before you finish your 18 months of no-interest payments.

There's even a website devoted to damage caused by the Wii remote.

The image you see above was posted on that website, though, like the "Today" Show's Matt Lauer, I'm not so sure this is a real picture.

Nintendo President Satoru Iwata said damage done by flying controllers -- including damage to TV sets -- is likely be due to overuse of the straps.

"Some people are getting a lot more excited than we'd expected," Iwata said. "We need to better communicate to people how to deal with Wii as a new form of entertainment."

I did catch this YouTube video that shows what can happen when you get sweaty palms and make hard motions at the same time.

What I've noticed, watching people play Wii in stores and in homes is that few people actually use the strap attached to the remote, which is supposed to be wrapped around the wrist. And it is possible to swing the remote so hard that the strap snaps and the thing slips out of your hand.

Nintendo has a true revolution on its hands with this motion-controlled remote and needs to develop a tougher wrist strap as well as encourage players to not swing so hard. Perhaps a re-done Wii Sports would have different physics built in that don't respond quite so well to speed of movement.

Some stores are selling "Wii Gloves," colorful skins that fit over the remote and make it easier to grasp. My advice? Hold the remote tight and keep your hands dry -- and don't swing the darn thing so hard.

REVIEWS

Mercury Meltdown: Ever wanted to guide a liquid mercury blob around obstacles and through traps? Of course you didn't, but in this new PlayStation2 title from Reverb Communications, you will find yourself enjoying it.

Or at least I did. Your blob can change forms and there are plenty of mini-games to unlock. And this a lot more fun than it sounds (Rating: B)

Super Monkey Ball Banana Blitz: This is just as much fun as Nintendo's Wii Sports game. There are 50 party games here and you use the Wii remote like a bat and a steering wheel to manuveur your way. Playable with up to four players, the thing here is the fun of playing.

Graphically, this game is superior to its predecessors on GameBoy. The controller allows better motion than the old analog sticks. You roll your glass-encased monkey around 3D worlds. The early worlds are easy to conquer, then things get progressively harder. But still fun. Instead of using a thumb to maintain your center, you now use your wrist with the motion-based controller. That takes some getting used to, but you'll gain overall more freedom of movement and the game just plays better (Grade: B).

Yoshi's Island: Baby Mario, Baby DK, Baby Wario and Baby Peach come to play in this game, and each one gives Yoshi access to unique powers. Baby Mario gives him speed and Peach lets him fly like Superboy.

You'll need all these abilities because evil Kamek has captured Baby Luigi and you must find him. It's classic Mario game play on the DS, which does a better-than-expected job with the graphics. Of course, there are all your favorite power-ups: flowers, stars and red onions. Of course, there is all the Mario fun you've come to expect. Some may be tired of Mario games, but I think I'll be a fan forever (Grade: B).

Nintendo's Brain Boost is just plain fun

Some quick reviews:

Brain Boost (Nintendo DS): Majesco’s new DS game can actually help you improve your memory, which your favorite 40-year-old game review definitely needs and also helps with concentration. Now who said videogames are just mind candy?

Brain Boost Beta Wave stimulates the right part of the brain (concentration, busy thinking). It has simple-to-play games like shape recognition, addition, moving dots and reminder sequences. It’s education but fun for young and old kids. Each game has four levels with 20 problems each. Once you master it, though, replay value won’t be high.

Brain Boost Gamma Wave deals more with perception and problem solving and includes games for remembering circumstances, faces and colors (Grade: C-plus for both titles, Nintendo DS).

Family Feud: One of my favorite game shows of all-time is fun on your PlayStation 2, but not quite as much on DS. You can play against opponents or the computer and create customizable characters that look sort of like your family members (and definitely have the right name). There are 1,000 questions and tons of fun, but it’s a lot more fun to play against friends on PS2 on your television set (Grade: B-plus).

That’s So Raven, Psychic On The Scene: Raven Simon, former Cosby kid, has one of the most popular kids shows on TV, so this Nintendo DS video game, aimed at young girls, should have a built-in audience. It’s pretty simple, following the Mario-theme: you try to stop a bad guy from shutting down Raven’s theatre by picking up clues and designing clothes. There’s more than 40 hairstyles, outfits and disguises to wear. It’s simple to play and kind of fun, too (Grade: B-minus).

Kim Possible, What’s The Switch: Based on the Disney Channel cartoon hit, the orange-haired crime fighter is now in her fifth videogame. In this one, Kim has to team up with her enemy (and black-haired lookalike), Shengo, after two popular characters have their minds switched. You really need to know the show to follow the storyline. I got a bit lost, but the 11 missions are playable as one of three characters and you can acquire some gadgets to help you along the way. If you know the show, you’ll like the game and with over one million games sold in the franchise, there’s an audience waiting (Grade: B-minus, for PS2).

Ridge Racer 7: It’s been awhile since I’ve played Ridge Racer, but on PlayStation 3, it seemed like an old friend, except with much better graphics. During one jump on my first run, it looked like I was going to spill into the ocean. The game won’t let you do that, but it looked so real, I lost my breath for a moment.

This is a pure race game with 40 cars on 22 tracks. There are hundreds of thousands, literally, of customizable options. Ultimately, though, it’s about how well you handle your car. This game is heavy on drifting and you pretty much will have to let your car spin and smash into walls to win. It’s best to drive into curves, let off the gas, lose control and then use your controller to regain it.

The online integration is good and I experienced no lag times on Sony’s online network. You can race with up to 14 players online. But I liked the new career mode, where you can kind of become the Jeff Gordon of your virtual world (Grade: B).

Gundam Crossfire: War games look so amazing on PS3 and sound so real that if you walk in the room and don’t realize someone’s playing, you will have a moment of pause. Seriously.

Gundam is another strong launch title for PS3 from Namco. The storyline takes you nine months past the time earth has been invaded by Zeon forces and now earth’s armies are trying a massive counterattack. But do you choose to join the earthlings or aliens?

What makes the game so good is how real the environments look. You can literally lose yourself in real-looking worlds and be awake – the battle circumstances and scenes change rapidly. You can have your MS squad attack, halt, dash and (the cool one) scatter.

You want realism? Each body part of a mobile suit has its unique durability, so if you destroy a hand it has different results for that character than a leg. Awesome (Grade: A-minus)