The last installment in the hugely popular "Grand Theft Auto" video-game series needed a re-release because of an "accidental" piece of code inserted into the game. That code allowed players to have some pretty graphic sexual encounters with digital female characters.
The game was quickly slapped with an Adults Only rating, prompting Rockstar Games to take the code out and release the game again with a more consumer-friendly Mature rating.
Tuesday, "Grand Theft Auto IV" debuts in stores, and it needs an Adults Only rating, too.
I wrote a column in Monday's editions over the controversy this game is sure to cause.
That was before I saw some of the detailed clips that began hitting various game sites Monday -- all with an age verification screen warning beforehand.
The new game, among other things, allows players to choose one of three prostitutes for various forms of sex in a car. It graphically displays simulated group sex in a strip club. The images are about in line with something you might see after midnight on certain movie channels.
The question is: Why is this in a video game?
I haven't played "GTA IV" yet, but I was simply shocked by the clips I saw. It's as if Rockstar Games is sticking its finger up at the establishment that wants this game shut down. Violence, as usual, is plentiful, too. The game is obviously marketed towards adults and I hope retailers only sell it to those over 18.
I realize controversy helps make games sales, but I think the company has stepped over the line with this one.
Read Langston's review of the game by clicking here
Monday, April 28, 2008
Grand Theft Auto buzz, controversy, well under way
Tuesday will be one of the biggest days of the year for gamers -- and one of the most controversial.
Rockstar Games will release "Grand Theft Auto IV," the latest in a series that has sparked sales of more than 35 million units and been the focus of social outcries about the dangers that video games can pose for children.
Former presidential candidate Joe Lieberman has called the "GTA" series "horrendous." But Henry Jenkins, a respected professor at MIT, likes how the game explores the notion of choice and consequence.
In the "GTA" games, you generally play as a low-life thug working your way up in the criminal underworld. The way you do it -- by shooting police officers and dealing with hookers, drug dealers and pimps, in very graphic ways -- is what attracts the controversy.
And controversy attracts curiosity. That means too many kids are playing a game they shouldn't.
"Well, you know how the saying goes, `There's no such thing as bad publicity,' " said Libe Goad, editor-in-chief of the GameDaily Web site. "I can only suspect that the more people read about the thing called `Grand Theft Auto,' the more they want to find out what it is."
A digital `Scarface'
In "GTA IV," the lead character comes from Europe to live with his cousin and quickly finds himself in the criminal underworld. It's like a digital "Scarface," with you in the Tony Montana role.The latest game is reportedly a huge leap over previous installments.
The level of realism has been ramped up; Rockstar North producer Leslie Benzies told ign.com in a recent interview that it took nearly 1,000 people and 3 1/2 years to develop this title, which takes place in Manhattan-esque Liberty City.
And it's the realism that disturbs critics.
"This brutally violent video game must be kept out of the hands of children," said Tim Winter, president of the Parents Television Council.
Winter is especially concerned because a previous "GTA" title secretly included a mini-game that allowed players to have a graphic sexual encounter (the game briefly earned an Adults-Only rating before Rockstar re-released it).
He would also like to see "GTA IV" not displayed publicly in stores, and for retailers to check IDs.
"Legally, stores cannot sell children pornographic magazines or handguns -- but they can legally sell video games to children that contain pornographic content or that teach children how to kill," Winter said. "This is wrong.' "
My take
I've played the previous three "GTA" games and have found them all well done and well thought out.
I'm 41, and I don't see anything in these games that I haven't seen in critically acclaimed movies such as "The Departed" or "No Country for Old Men." The difference, of course, is you're not watching someone get killed. You are the killer.
Let's be clear: No one under 18 -- and probably no one under 21 -- should play this game or even see it played. But Rockstar's commercial, showing strippers on a pole and crooks driving fast cars, will be effective at luring teens as well as older male customers.
" `Grand Theft Auto' was one of the first games that was specifically designed with older gamers in mind," said Game Daily's Goad. "It took the same stuff we were seeing in TV and movies and put it into a video game. It's not sci-fi, it doesn't involve magic -- it's set in a `reality' that people can relate to."
And we can expect plenty more "Grand Theft" titles in our future.
"I can definitely imagine the `GTA' franchise lasting for years to come," Goad said. "Rockstar would have to have a death wish financially to stop making `GTA.' "
Rockstar Games will release "Grand Theft Auto IV," the latest in a series that has sparked sales of more than 35 million units and been the focus of social outcries about the dangers that video games can pose for children.
Former presidential candidate Joe Lieberman has called the "GTA" series "horrendous." But Henry Jenkins, a respected professor at MIT, likes how the game explores the notion of choice and consequence.
In the "GTA" games, you generally play as a low-life thug working your way up in the criminal underworld. The way you do it -- by shooting police officers and dealing with hookers, drug dealers and pimps, in very graphic ways -- is what attracts the controversy.
And controversy attracts curiosity. That means too many kids are playing a game they shouldn't.
"Well, you know how the saying goes, `There's no such thing as bad publicity,' " said Libe Goad, editor-in-chief of the GameDaily Web site. "I can only suspect that the more people read about the thing called `Grand Theft Auto,' the more they want to find out what it is."
A digital `Scarface'
In "GTA IV," the lead character comes from Europe to live with his cousin and quickly finds himself in the criminal underworld. It's like a digital "Scarface," with you in the Tony Montana role.The latest game is reportedly a huge leap over previous installments.
The level of realism has been ramped up; Rockstar North producer Leslie Benzies told ign.com in a recent interview that it took nearly 1,000 people and 3 1/2 years to develop this title, which takes place in Manhattan-esque Liberty City.
And it's the realism that disturbs critics.
"This brutally violent video game must be kept out of the hands of children," said Tim Winter, president of the Parents Television Council.
Winter is especially concerned because a previous "GTA" title secretly included a mini-game that allowed players to have a graphic sexual encounter (the game briefly earned an Adults-Only rating before Rockstar re-released it).
He would also like to see "GTA IV" not displayed publicly in stores, and for retailers to check IDs.
"Legally, stores cannot sell children pornographic magazines or handguns -- but they can legally sell video games to children that contain pornographic content or that teach children how to kill," Winter said. "This is wrong.' "
My take
I've played the previous three "GTA" games and have found them all well done and well thought out.
I'm 41, and I don't see anything in these games that I haven't seen in critically acclaimed movies such as "The Departed" or "No Country for Old Men." The difference, of course, is you're not watching someone get killed. You are the killer.
Let's be clear: No one under 18 -- and probably no one under 21 -- should play this game or even see it played. But Rockstar's commercial, showing strippers on a pole and crooks driving fast cars, will be effective at luring teens as well as older male customers.
" `Grand Theft Auto' was one of the first games that was specifically designed with older gamers in mind," said Game Daily's Goad. "It took the same stuff we were seeing in TV and movies and put it into a video game. It's not sci-fi, it doesn't involve magic -- it's set in a `reality' that people can relate to."
And we can expect plenty more "Grand Theft" titles in our future.
"I can definitely imagine the `GTA' franchise lasting for years to come," Goad said. "Rockstar would have to have a death wish financially to stop making `GTA.' "
Thursday, April 17, 2008
NCAA '09 trailer looks good
NCAA Football 09 looks very much improved, from graphics to features. Playing a game with mascots would be wild. I hope Madden shows similar improvement, particularly with pre and post game presentation.
What do you all think?
What do you all think?
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Kobe Bryant shouldn't have jumped over that car
On a recent day off, the best player in the NBA decided to jump over a sports car coming at him fast enough to end his life -- much less his career.
Kobe Bryant filmed a spot that hit the internet last week. It begins with him fiddling with a camera and setting up his jump, all while teammate Ronnny Turiaf is begging him not to try it. Turiaf pleads with Bryant that the playoffs are coming up and his team needs him.
"I got this, I got this!" Bryant replies after holding up a new lightweight signature sneaker and spinning it around so we get a good look at the Nike logo. "Do you trust your boy? Just sit back and enjoy the show."
After that, Bryant calls for the silver Aston Martin convertible to come flying at him. He squats down, picking his feet up and down in quick steps. Then Bryant appears to leap over the car. You can even see where the car's shadow crosses over his.
It's very, very convincing.
And when he lands, a mad celebration ensues, with chest bumps and hand slaps and Bryant reminding viewers to, you know, not try this at home.
The clip was filmed March 31, one day after the Lakers beat Washington 126-120 and two days before they beat Portland 104-91. It got more than 100,000 views on YouTube within 24 hours of launching.
But here's the problem.
People will try things they see on TV or the internet, particularly when it's done by a guy like Bryant, who is idolized by millions. Kids across the country have been severely injured trying to imitate some of the stunts seen on YouTube done by teens who jump off the sides of buildings and call themselves "Real Life Spidermen" or street acrobats.
R&B singer R. Kelly has a new look these days. He's painted his braided hair bright gold. It's not the best of looks, but just today I saw three guys at Wal-Mart with the same style.
I can only hope no foolish young person is planning to "just be like Kobe" and have his buddy come flying at him in a silver Corolla tomorrow.
Of course, Bryant's stunt wasn't real, but the digitally enhanced spot doesn't come with any disclaimers. Thankfully, Nike doesn't plan to put this "ad" on TV.
Nike rep Kejuan Wilkins told me Monday that "it is something we worked with Kobe on. It's created to live on the web, more of a viral campaign," he said.
Wilkins said the NBA All-Star was never in danger during filming. I never really thought so, but I just question why he decided to make this "ad" in the first place.
This season, Bryant has done a lot of things right. He's averaging 28.4 points per game, good for second in the NBA, plus 6.3 rebounds and 5.4 assists. His team has the best record in the Western Conference. I can see the Lakers reaching their first NBA final this season since Shaquille O'Neal left four years ago.
This is the year Kobe deserves to win his first league MVP. Making this film, however, was a very bad decision.
After a recent game, Kobe was asked about it by a local LA TV station. He responded with a big grin, apparently happy -- and awfully naïve -- about what he'd done.
"It's Hollywood baby," Bryant finally said. "What do you expect out here? If Rambo can take on a whole army, I can jump over an Aston Martin."
Yes, Kobe, you can jump over an Aston Martin, but the problem is some of your fans might think they can, too.
Langston Wertz Jr: 704-358-5133; lwertz@charlotteobserver.com Langston Wertz Jr.
Wii charge station a must
Nyko Charge Station for Wii
Rating: 4 stars out of 4
Sometimes some of the best innovations are the simplest.
Nyko’s Charge Station for the Nintendo Wii is a near must-have accessory if you have a heavy user in the home (or if you are the heavy user in your home).
The unit comes with rechargeable batteries and a battery cover with a rubberized grip, which helps you hold the Wii-mote better. That’s a good thing considering some Wii fans have damaged property when the Wii slides out of their hand while they’re waving it around playing.
All you do, basically, is replace your batteries with these rechargeable and put on the new cover. No more trips to Wal-Mart at midnight (am I telling on myself?) to get batteries to finish a marathon session of whatever game it is you’re playing).
It’ll take you about two hours to charge one Wii-mote and four hours to do two, and you can charge two at once.
Buzz Junior RoboJam
Company: Sony
System: PlayStation 2
Rating: 3 stars out of 4
Built for the PlayStation2, this is a great family game, aimed at kids, where you control up to four cute robots who all want to be Robot Of The Month.
You dodge rockets. You’re a crash test dummy. The best thing is the Buzz Buzzers – which you must buy separately; four for $40 – but have big colorful buttons, perfect for small hands and help make this game super easy. You just press the big colorful buttons on the controller and play. This is pure fun to play and never gets boring. One of the best family games of the year.
Buzz The Hollywood Quiz
Company: Sony
System: PlayStation 2
Rating: 3.5 out of 4
This game is rated T for teen because of drug references and mild language. Using the buzz buzzers you play “Jeopardy”-style against up to eight players. The game has movie clips, celebrity photos and more than 5,000 trivia questions.
The game essentially puts you into a huge quiz show hosted by Buzz, a slick-talking, glasses-wearing, spiked-blond hair-having guy who tosses questions at you.
There are versions of the game where you can throw pies into your opponent’s face if you get the answer correct first. Another game, Fastest Finger, gives you more points for answering questions faster.
This is great for parties and for husbands and wives, too. I’d addicted.
The Club
Company: Sega
System: PC
Rating: 2.5 out of 4
Rated M for mature, you play as one of eight trained assassins fighting each other. You can play online and the game comes with one month of online access free.
The Club looks great and sound great, so long as you computer’s graphics and sound cards are up to it. But this type of game has been done so much and in some many different ways, there’s no new ground to break here.
There are 48 single player levels and all kind of weaponry to use, but I’m guessing most fans of this genre are going to pick up the fifth or sixth releases in their favorite series instead of starting all over again.
Langston Wertz Jr: 704-358-5133; lwertz@charlotteobserver.com
Rating: 4 stars out of 4
Sometimes some of the best innovations are the simplest.
Nyko’s Charge Station for the Nintendo Wii is a near must-have accessory if you have a heavy user in the home (or if you are the heavy user in your home).
The unit comes with rechargeable batteries and a battery cover with a rubberized grip, which helps you hold the Wii-mote better. That’s a good thing considering some Wii fans have damaged property when the Wii slides out of their hand while they’re waving it around playing.
All you do, basically, is replace your batteries with these rechargeable and put on the new cover. No more trips to Wal-Mart at midnight (am I telling on myself?) to get batteries to finish a marathon session of whatever game it is you’re playing).
It’ll take you about two hours to charge one Wii-mote and four hours to do two, and you can charge two at once.
Buzz Junior RoboJam
Company: Sony
System: PlayStation 2
Rating: 3 stars out of 4
Built for the PlayStation2, this is a great family game, aimed at kids, where you control up to four cute robots who all want to be Robot Of The Month.
You dodge rockets. You’re a crash test dummy. The best thing is the Buzz Buzzers – which you must buy separately; four for $40 – but have big colorful buttons, perfect for small hands and help make this game super easy. You just press the big colorful buttons on the controller and play. This is pure fun to play and never gets boring. One of the best family games of the year.
Buzz The Hollywood Quiz
Company: Sony
System: PlayStation 2
Rating: 3.5 out of 4
This game is rated T for teen because of drug references and mild language. Using the buzz buzzers you play “Jeopardy”-style against up to eight players. The game has movie clips, celebrity photos and more than 5,000 trivia questions.
The game essentially puts you into a huge quiz show hosted by Buzz, a slick-talking, glasses-wearing, spiked-blond hair-having guy who tosses questions at you.
There are versions of the game where you can throw pies into your opponent’s face if you get the answer correct first. Another game, Fastest Finger, gives you more points for answering questions faster.
This is great for parties and for husbands and wives, too. I’d addicted.
The Club
Company: Sega
System: PC
Rating: 2.5 out of 4
Rated M for mature, you play as one of eight trained assassins fighting each other. You can play online and the game comes with one month of online access free.
The Club looks great and sound great, so long as you computer’s graphics and sound cards are up to it. But this type of game has been done so much and in some many different ways, there’s no new ground to break here.
There are 48 single player levels and all kind of weaponry to use, but I’m guessing most fans of this genre are going to pick up the fifth or sixth releases in their favorite series instead of starting all over again.
Langston Wertz Jr: 704-358-5133; lwertz@charlotteobserver.com
Sony wins baseball title
MLB 08 The Show
Sony, for the PS3, $59.99
Rating:
Major League Baseball 2K8
2K Sports, for the Xbox 360, $59.99
Rating:
Baseball season has begun, so of course, updates of the two big MLB video games are in stores.
I got a chance to try out Sony's "MLB 08 The Show" and 2KSports' "Major League Baseball 2K8."
First, a look at Sony's entry.
"MLB 08" (also available for the PSP and PS2) has amazing graphics on the PS3. My son, Trey, was playing recently, and when I walked in, I honestly mistook it for a real game on TV.
But the game offers so much more than just good looks.
There's an up-to-the-minute ticker that keeps you updated with real-world MLB games, down to baserunners, strikes and outs. You can send e-mail to other players online. You can create a player and play a game from his perspective, driving him up the ranks from minor-league baller to major-league millionaire.
In terms of gameplay, "MLB 08" is very solid. It focuses -- as baseball games should -- on the interaction between the pitcher and the batter. A click of a button pulls up nearly every imaginable pitching stat. Another click reveals hitting stats, down to whether or not your guy is confident enough to swing for the big extra-base hit you need.
I found baserunning and fielding to be easy to figure out, and the announcers and sound effects were solid and added to the realistic feel. This is the best version of this game I've ever tried. By far.
"Major League Baseball 2K8," for Xbox 360, didn't look as sharp or as stunning as "MLB 08." My 8-year-old son also felt it was too complicated to play, which is why I rated it lower.
My biggest problem was with the pitching. It's too precise. If you miss your mark by a fraction, you're throwing ball four -- or a two-out, bases-loaded home run. Hitting, baserunning and fielding, meanwhile, seemed to rely too much on using the right analog stick.
But "2K8" is a very deep game. The wealth of control and customization is staggering. There's a 90-team minor-league mode, for example, and its presentation is even closer to a TV broadcast than "MLB 08's."
"2K8" could have been great, but it needs some tweaking and a little dumbing down, I think, to really appeal to the masses.
Naruto Ultimate Ninja 3
Bandai Namco Games, for the PS2, $39.99
Rating:
There's nothing like a good side-scrolling fighter game.
In this latest installment for the franchise, you choose from more than 40 characters (with Japanese or English voices) and can fight through 20 stages.
The graphics aren't great, but that doesn't matter so much here: You simply bang away on the controller, learn combos through trial and error, and try to work your way to the boss ninjas.
After playing those baseball games, it was nice to pop in a non-sports game, sit back, and go at it without constantly hitting the pause button to check out the instructions.
Are you ready for rumble?
Sony's just-released Dual Shock Controller incorporates the highly anticipated rumble feature (which should've been included with the original PS3 controller). It costs $54.99.
The upcoming "Gran Turismo 5 Prologue" will make use of the force-feedback, and Sony says 30 PS3 titles -- including "MLB 08" -- will use it as well. Activating the feature on certain games may require a software update. A complete list of titles that will incorporate "the rumble" is at http://us.playstation.com.
VIDEO GAMES Langston Wertz Jr.
Langston Wertz Jr.: 704-358-5133; lwertz@charlotteobserver.com.
Sony, for the PS3, $59.99
Rating:
Major League Baseball 2K8
2K Sports, for the Xbox 360, $59.99
Rating:
Baseball season has begun, so of course, updates of the two big MLB video games are in stores.
I got a chance to try out Sony's "MLB 08 The Show" and 2KSports' "Major League Baseball 2K8."
First, a look at Sony's entry.
"MLB 08" (also available for the PSP and PS2) has amazing graphics on the PS3. My son, Trey, was playing recently, and when I walked in, I honestly mistook it for a real game on TV.
But the game offers so much more than just good looks.
There's an up-to-the-minute ticker that keeps you updated with real-world MLB games, down to baserunners, strikes and outs. You can send e-mail to other players online. You can create a player and play a game from his perspective, driving him up the ranks from minor-league baller to major-league millionaire.
In terms of gameplay, "MLB 08" is very solid. It focuses -- as baseball games should -- on the interaction between the pitcher and the batter. A click of a button pulls up nearly every imaginable pitching stat. Another click reveals hitting stats, down to whether or not your guy is confident enough to swing for the big extra-base hit you need.
I found baserunning and fielding to be easy to figure out, and the announcers and sound effects were solid and added to the realistic feel. This is the best version of this game I've ever tried. By far.
"Major League Baseball 2K8," for Xbox 360, didn't look as sharp or as stunning as "MLB 08." My 8-year-old son also felt it was too complicated to play, which is why I rated it lower.
My biggest problem was with the pitching. It's too precise. If you miss your mark by a fraction, you're throwing ball four -- or a two-out, bases-loaded home run. Hitting, baserunning and fielding, meanwhile, seemed to rely too much on using the right analog stick.
But "2K8" is a very deep game. The wealth of control and customization is staggering. There's a 90-team minor-league mode, for example, and its presentation is even closer to a TV broadcast than "MLB 08's."
"2K8" could have been great, but it needs some tweaking and a little dumbing down, I think, to really appeal to the masses.
Naruto Ultimate Ninja 3
Bandai Namco Games, for the PS2, $39.99
Rating:
There's nothing like a good side-scrolling fighter game.
In this latest installment for the franchise, you choose from more than 40 characters (with Japanese or English voices) and can fight through 20 stages.
The graphics aren't great, but that doesn't matter so much here: You simply bang away on the controller, learn combos through trial and error, and try to work your way to the boss ninjas.
After playing those baseball games, it was nice to pop in a non-sports game, sit back, and go at it without constantly hitting the pause button to check out the instructions.
Are you ready for rumble?
Sony's just-released Dual Shock Controller incorporates the highly anticipated rumble feature (which should've been included with the original PS3 controller). It costs $54.99.
The upcoming "Gran Turismo 5 Prologue" will make use of the force-feedback, and Sony says 30 PS3 titles -- including "MLB 08" -- will use it as well. Activating the feature on certain games may require a software update. A complete list of titles that will incorporate "the rumble" is at http://us.playstation.com.
VIDEO GAMES Langston Wertz Jr.
Langston Wertz Jr.: 704-358-5133; lwertz@charlotteobserver.com.
Monday, March 24, 2008
PlayStation 3 builds momentum
After a slow start, the PlayStation 3 is finally starting to show some promise.
In my mind, it's always been the best of the current-gen video-game consoles. Now sales are picking up, software production is ramping up, and Sony is ready to begin a major push for its machine this spring and summer.
Last week, Sony announced an online upgrade for PS3, called Profile 2.0 or BD-Live. It will give PS3 users access to downloadable video content, ringtones and games. The software update will also allow photo and music playlists to be copied onto PSP units.
"With Blu-Ray established as the high-definition optical disc standard, more consumers are ready to jump in and take advantage of everything the format offers," Sony Computer Entertainment vice president Scott Steinbert said.
The new upgrade will require a high-speed Internet connection and at least 1 gigabyte of local storage, available on some PS3 models' internal hard drives.
On April 8, Sony will release two BD-Live enabled titles on the network: "Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story" and "The 6th Day." Both titles, the company said, will include content not available on the current Blu-Ray disc versions.
Other features coming with the new update:
• "Resume Play" will allow the PS3 system to start playing some Blu-Ray discs and/or DVDs at the point they were stopped, even if the disc has been removed from the unit.
• "Audio Output Device" will be a new remote play setting, allowing the PSP to serve as a remote control for music played through the PS3 console.
• The PS3's Internet browser's view speed is improved, even allowing video files directly linked from a Web page to be streamed (hello, YouTube!).
• DivX and WMV files larger than 2 gigs will be playable, and "mosquito noise reduction" will be added as a setting for improved movie playback.
REVIEW: Lost: Via Domus
I'm a big fan of the ABC television series and had high hopes for the game, in which you play an amnesiac professional photographer who is one of the survivors of Oceanic Flight 815.
The storyline and the enemies will be familiar to anyone who has watched the first two seasons. The goal is to piece together the mystery by interacting with other survivors. Flashback scenes, like those in the show, help some.
I think "Lost" fans will love interacting with The Others and seeing what kooky nicknames Sawyer has for them.
But the characters didn't look enough like the ones I see on TV, and the minigames were too repetitive. On top of all that, the whole thing is over too fast. Good rental, questionable buy.
REVIEW: Left Brain, Right Brain
In this latest Nintendo DS puzzler, you play 15 mini-games all based on speed and accuracy that challenge you to use both sides of your brain. There are games that make you use your strong hand and weak hand, and games based on speed and accuracy.
You can challenge friends or practice over five difficulty levels. And I couldn't get mad when my son wouldn't put this down. He says, "Dad, I'm learning to use my left hand better. That's why I'm still playing."
In my mind, it's always been the best of the current-gen video-game consoles. Now sales are picking up, software production is ramping up, and Sony is ready to begin a major push for its machine this spring and summer.
Last week, Sony announced an online upgrade for PS3, called Profile 2.0 or BD-Live. It will give PS3 users access to downloadable video content, ringtones and games. The software update will also allow photo and music playlists to be copied onto PSP units.
"With Blu-Ray established as the high-definition optical disc standard, more consumers are ready to jump in and take advantage of everything the format offers," Sony Computer Entertainment vice president Scott Steinbert said.
The new upgrade will require a high-speed Internet connection and at least 1 gigabyte of local storage, available on some PS3 models' internal hard drives.
On April 8, Sony will release two BD-Live enabled titles on the network: "Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story" and "The 6th Day." Both titles, the company said, will include content not available on the current Blu-Ray disc versions.
Other features coming with the new update:
• "Resume Play" will allow the PS3 system to start playing some Blu-Ray discs and/or DVDs at the point they were stopped, even if the disc has been removed from the unit.
• "Audio Output Device" will be a new remote play setting, allowing the PSP to serve as a remote control for music played through the PS3 console.
• The PS3's Internet browser's view speed is improved, even allowing video files directly linked from a Web page to be streamed (hello, YouTube!).
• DivX and WMV files larger than 2 gigs will be playable, and "mosquito noise reduction" will be added as a setting for improved movie playback.
REVIEW: Lost: Via Domus
I'm a big fan of the ABC television series and had high hopes for the game, in which you play an amnesiac professional photographer who is one of the survivors of Oceanic Flight 815.
The storyline and the enemies will be familiar to anyone who has watched the first two seasons. The goal is to piece together the mystery by interacting with other survivors. Flashback scenes, like those in the show, help some.
I think "Lost" fans will love interacting with The Others and seeing what kooky nicknames Sawyer has for them.
But the characters didn't look enough like the ones I see on TV, and the minigames were too repetitive. On top of all that, the whole thing is over too fast. Good rental, questionable buy.
REVIEW: Left Brain, Right Brain
In this latest Nintendo DS puzzler, you play 15 mini-games all based on speed and accuracy that challenge you to use both sides of your brain. There are games that make you use your strong hand and weak hand, and games based on speed and accuracy.
You can challenge friends or practice over five difficulty levels. And I couldn't get mad when my son wouldn't put this down. He says, "Dad, I'm learning to use my left hand better. That's why I'm still playing."
New Turok not exactly what I remember
`Turok' battles soldiers, huge insects and dinosaurs
PS3 and online versions give you nonstop action in an alien jungle
LANGSTON WERTZ JR.
I used to love the original "Turok: Dinosaur Hunter," so I was tickled to try the new "Turok" (Rated M for Mature) on PlayStation 3.
I wasn't disappointed.
You play as Joseph Turok, and you're part of an elite special-forces unit on some strange planet. (OK, I know you've heard this story line before.)
Your mission is to take down your former boss, Roland Kane, who is holed up on a genetically altered planet.
Your ship is shot down and you land in a jungle crawling with Kane's soldiers, as well as huge insects and dinosaurs. Your mission? Stay alive and capture Kane.
Basically, this is nonstop action that actually had me sweating a little. A good soundtrack helps with that.
I liked how you sometimes need to use stealth to kill an enemy with a bow and knife so you wouldn't alert large groups of other enemies in the area, and how you can "train" dinos to attack other human enemies (which can sometimes backfire disastrously, however).
Graphically, this one looked pretty good. I was shocked at how real it looked the first time a dino started literally eating my guy, as I struggled to get him free.
You can play "Turok" online with up to 16 players in a variety of modes. Also, when the game hits stores this week, look for the PS3 version to be patched to provide rumble control and enable 1080i support. A patch for the 360 version will also be available.
Rating:
Review: `Cooking Mama 2: Dinner With Friends'
In this fun little E-rated game for Nintendo DS, your goal is to digitally create good food for nine judges.Using more than 250 ingredients, you try to cook things like shark fin soup and meatloaf in an effort to earn a gold, silver or bronze medal based on your final product.
In some game modes, Mama shows up to help you avoid mistakes. (I made a lot.) In others, you're on your own. You can also play online with up to three friends.
This game was a nice diversion.
Rating:
Review: `Boogie'
Music games are all the rage now, and here's another for PlayStation 2 and Nintendo DS. (It was released for the Wii last August.)
"Boogie" (rated E for Everyone) features familiar hits from artists like Kool & The Gang, Michael Jackson and Britney Spears. The good news, for parents, is that it encourages kids of all ages to get up off the couch and move.
Basically, what you do is dance and sing along and let the game record your voice as you make music videos.
We need more fun-for-the-whole-family games like this.
Rating:
New color for popular DS
The next-generation video-game consoles -- PlayStation 3, Xbox 360 and Wii -- seem to get the lion's share of publicity these days. But nothing sells like Nintendo's hand-held unit, the DS.
On Sunday, Nintendo will be releasing a new Cobalt/Black version of the portable. This is the seventh color available for the DS and joins Polar White, Coral Pink, Onyx, Crimson/Black and the limited-edition Gold and Metallic Rose.
I'm sure it'll sell.
In 2007, the DS was the best-selling video game system in the United States, where more than 8.5 million gamers bought a unit. Since it launched in November 2004, Nintendo DS has sold more than 17.6 million in the United States.
PS3 and online versions give you nonstop action in an alien jungle
LANGSTON WERTZ JR.
I used to love the original "Turok: Dinosaur Hunter," so I was tickled to try the new "Turok" (Rated M for Mature) on PlayStation 3.
I wasn't disappointed.
You play as Joseph Turok, and you're part of an elite special-forces unit on some strange planet. (OK, I know you've heard this story line before.)
Your mission is to take down your former boss, Roland Kane, who is holed up on a genetically altered planet.
Your ship is shot down and you land in a jungle crawling with Kane's soldiers, as well as huge insects and dinosaurs. Your mission? Stay alive and capture Kane.
Basically, this is nonstop action that actually had me sweating a little. A good soundtrack helps with that.
I liked how you sometimes need to use stealth to kill an enemy with a bow and knife so you wouldn't alert large groups of other enemies in the area, and how you can "train" dinos to attack other human enemies (which can sometimes backfire disastrously, however).
Graphically, this one looked pretty good. I was shocked at how real it looked the first time a dino started literally eating my guy, as I struggled to get him free.
You can play "Turok" online with up to 16 players in a variety of modes. Also, when the game hits stores this week, look for the PS3 version to be patched to provide rumble control and enable 1080i support. A patch for the 360 version will also be available.
Rating:
Review: `Cooking Mama 2: Dinner With Friends'
In this fun little E-rated game for Nintendo DS, your goal is to digitally create good food for nine judges.Using more than 250 ingredients, you try to cook things like shark fin soup and meatloaf in an effort to earn a gold, silver or bronze medal based on your final product.
In some game modes, Mama shows up to help you avoid mistakes. (I made a lot.) In others, you're on your own. You can also play online with up to three friends.
This game was a nice diversion.
Rating:
Review: `Boogie'
Music games are all the rage now, and here's another for PlayStation 2 and Nintendo DS. (It was released for the Wii last August.)
"Boogie" (rated E for Everyone) features familiar hits from artists like Kool & The Gang, Michael Jackson and Britney Spears. The good news, for parents, is that it encourages kids of all ages to get up off the couch and move.
Basically, what you do is dance and sing along and let the game record your voice as you make music videos.
We need more fun-for-the-whole-family games like this.
Rating:
New color for popular DS
The next-generation video-game consoles -- PlayStation 3, Xbox 360 and Wii -- seem to get the lion's share of publicity these days. But nothing sells like Nintendo's hand-held unit, the DS.
On Sunday, Nintendo will be releasing a new Cobalt/Black version of the portable. This is the seventh color available for the DS and joins Polar White, Coral Pink, Onyx, Crimson/Black and the limited-edition Gold and Metallic Rose.
I'm sure it'll sell.
In 2007, the DS was the best-selling video game system in the United States, where more than 8.5 million gamers bought a unit. Since it launched in November 2004, Nintendo DS has sold more than 17.6 million in the United States.
Cool skating game for girls
Game offers more than skating
LANGSTON WERTZ JR.
In "American Girl: Mia Goes For Great," the title character is a precocious 10-year-old who dreams of becoming a star figure skater.
She's grown up playing ice hockey on a pond behind her home with her three brothers. Everyone tells her she could be a hockey star, but Mia decides to pursue her dream.
The game, available for Windows PC from THQ, takes you through some life lessons about losing with grace, being a good sport and believing in yourself.
The game is aimed at girls and their mothers, but I think younger boys would enjoy it as well.
Using a Program Building tool, you help Mia pick out her costumes, create her skating program and practice tough moves. There is a library with hints and tips, plus a few strategy-based mini-games.
Ultimately, the basic lessons taught here -- and the joy of finally getting past the Lucerne Winter Show and onto the regionals -- more than got my 41-year-old attention.
This is a very well done game.
Rating: 4.0 out of 5 stars.
EA Sports Keeps NFL License
Electronic Arts will continue to produce exclusive NFL video games through the 2012 season after it extended its contracts with the league and the Players Association.Some fans will love it. Others who wanted 2KSports back into the official NFL game will hate it.
EA will retain its rights to use NFL teams, stadiums and players in its games, the company said last week. The agreements provide EA access to NFL Films and the NFL Network to use in games.
EA produces the Madden NFL line of games.
News and notes
• Activision will release "Guitar Hero: Aerosmith" in June. The game will allow players to virtually become the famous rock band, tracing the band's career from their first concert on. Xbox Live has a free download of Aerosmith's "Dream On" today.
"Having a game built around Aerosmith has been a huge honor and really a great experience for us," says band member Joe Perry. "We've put a lot of ideas into the game so that fans can have fun interacting with our music, getting inside our body of work and learning about the band's history."
• iSuppli, a technology research and advisory company, predicts the global installed base for the Nintendo Wii will rise to 30.2 million units in 2008, up from 18 million in 2007.
That will put the Wii ahead of the Xbox 360's total of 25.7 million units in 2008.
• Nintendo of America has asked the U.S. Trade Representative to encourage specific governments around the world to take a more aggressive stance to combat piracy of Nintendo video games and systems.
China is the primary source of manufacturing pirated Nintendo DS and Wii games, and Korea has emerged as the leader in distributing illegal game files on the Internet. Despite aggressive anti-piracy actions taken by Nintendo, Brazil and Mexico remain saturated with counterfeit Nintendo software.
• Video-game player sales fell 6 percent on a weekly basis last month in the U.S., but software sales were up 18 percent weekly, according to industry specialist the NPD Group.
Nintendo Wii was the top-selling console and PlayStation 3 outsold Xbox 360 for the first time, with consumers buying 269,000 consoles, compared with 230,000 Microsoft machines.
LANGSTON WERTZ JR.
In "American Girl: Mia Goes For Great," the title character is a precocious 10-year-old who dreams of becoming a star figure skater.
She's grown up playing ice hockey on a pond behind her home with her three brothers. Everyone tells her she could be a hockey star, but Mia decides to pursue her dream.
The game, available for Windows PC from THQ, takes you through some life lessons about losing with grace, being a good sport and believing in yourself.
The game is aimed at girls and their mothers, but I think younger boys would enjoy it as well.
Using a Program Building tool, you help Mia pick out her costumes, create her skating program and practice tough moves. There is a library with hints and tips, plus a few strategy-based mini-games.
Ultimately, the basic lessons taught here -- and the joy of finally getting past the Lucerne Winter Show and onto the regionals -- more than got my 41-year-old attention.
This is a very well done game.
Rating: 4.0 out of 5 stars.
EA Sports Keeps NFL License
Electronic Arts will continue to produce exclusive NFL video games through the 2012 season after it extended its contracts with the league and the Players Association.Some fans will love it. Others who wanted 2KSports back into the official NFL game will hate it.
EA will retain its rights to use NFL teams, stadiums and players in its games, the company said last week. The agreements provide EA access to NFL Films and the NFL Network to use in games.
EA produces the Madden NFL line of games.
News and notes
• Activision will release "Guitar Hero: Aerosmith" in June. The game will allow players to virtually become the famous rock band, tracing the band's career from their first concert on. Xbox Live has a free download of Aerosmith's "Dream On" today.
"Having a game built around Aerosmith has been a huge honor and really a great experience for us," says band member Joe Perry. "We've put a lot of ideas into the game so that fans can have fun interacting with our music, getting inside our body of work and learning about the band's history."
• iSuppli, a technology research and advisory company, predicts the global installed base for the Nintendo Wii will rise to 30.2 million units in 2008, up from 18 million in 2007.
That will put the Wii ahead of the Xbox 360's total of 25.7 million units in 2008.
• Nintendo of America has asked the U.S. Trade Representative to encourage specific governments around the world to take a more aggressive stance to combat piracy of Nintendo video games and systems.
China is the primary source of manufacturing pirated Nintendo DS and Wii games, and Korea has emerged as the leader in distributing illegal game files on the Internet. Despite aggressive anti-piracy actions taken by Nintendo, Brazil and Mexico remain saturated with counterfeit Nintendo software.
• Video-game player sales fell 6 percent on a weekly basis last month in the U.S., but software sales were up 18 percent weekly, according to industry specialist the NPD Group.
Nintendo Wii was the top-selling console and PlayStation 3 outsold Xbox 360 for the first time, with consumers buying 269,000 consoles, compared with 230,000 Microsoft machines.
No more HD-DVD? Win for consumers
Toshiba's giving up of HD-DVD a clear win for consumers
Blu-Ray picture quality is already included in PlayStation 3 console
LANGSTON WERTZ JR.
AP
A Best Buy salesman shows copies of Warner Bros' film "300" in both Blu-ray Disc and HD DVD formats at the Best Buy store in Burbank, Calif. Tuesday, Feb. 19, 2008.
The biggest news to hit the video game industry last week really didn't have much to do with gaming.
Toshiba announced it is going to abandon HD-DVD, ceding the format war over next-generation players to Blu-Ray.
It's great news for most consumers, who can now upgrade to high-definition home video without having to worry about whether their new player will be a doorstop by Christmas. But it's also a big win for Sony's PlayStation 3 console.
Sony includes Blu-Ray compatibility in each PS3 console it sold. That was responsible for the initially high retail costs of the PS3 ($499 and $599, although the price point has since dropped to $399), but also for helping to create an instant installed base for Sony's new DVD technology.
With HD-DVD out, the PS3 -- for the moment -- has a big edge over the Xbox 360, which currently plays high-definition movies if you have the now-obsolete add-on HD-DVD drive.
But the 360 can rally back. Microsoft no doubt will continue to expand high-definition content distribution via the Xbox Live online network. And the company announced last week that Xbox Live is releasing software that will allow gamers to create their own games, and then share them over Xbox Live. Hopefully, it'll lead to the creation of a few innovative, mainstream hits.
Review: Need for Speed ProStreet
Street racing is back in this Electronic Arts game for Xbox 360 and PS3.You can compete in any of four game modes: drag, drift, grip and speed. I couldn't master all four because each requires different techniques, and I'm just a pedal-to-the-metal guy when it comes to racing games. You also can build your car, upload it to the Internet, and race against friends.
The graphics on both systems are startling -- particularly the damage effects. That damage can affect the cars and the drivers realistically, as can the smoke, flying dirt and dust clouds.
I liked the 360 version better because of the rumbling controller, but it's a cool little game on either system.
Rating:
Review: Scene It? Lights, Camera, Action
Microsoft Game Studios' movie trivia game for Xbox 360 comes with four special wireless "Big Button Pads," which you and up to three friends use to buzz in "Jeopardy!"-style.
The challenges -- like trying to guess the names of films based on children's drawings or a list of actors and actresses in the cast -- are awfully fun to take on with a group. I brought this out during a party over the holidays, and it was the hit of the night.
Blu-Ray picture quality is already included in PlayStation 3 console
LANGSTON WERTZ JR.
AP
A Best Buy salesman shows copies of Warner Bros' film "300" in both Blu-ray Disc and HD DVD formats at the Best Buy store in Burbank, Calif. Tuesday, Feb. 19, 2008.
The biggest news to hit the video game industry last week really didn't have much to do with gaming.
Toshiba announced it is going to abandon HD-DVD, ceding the format war over next-generation players to Blu-Ray.
It's great news for most consumers, who can now upgrade to high-definition home video without having to worry about whether their new player will be a doorstop by Christmas. But it's also a big win for Sony's PlayStation 3 console.
Sony includes Blu-Ray compatibility in each PS3 console it sold. That was responsible for the initially high retail costs of the PS3 ($499 and $599, although the price point has since dropped to $399), but also for helping to create an instant installed base for Sony's new DVD technology.
With HD-DVD out, the PS3 -- for the moment -- has a big edge over the Xbox 360, which currently plays high-definition movies if you have the now-obsolete add-on HD-DVD drive.
But the 360 can rally back. Microsoft no doubt will continue to expand high-definition content distribution via the Xbox Live online network. And the company announced last week that Xbox Live is releasing software that will allow gamers to create their own games, and then share them over Xbox Live. Hopefully, it'll lead to the creation of a few innovative, mainstream hits.
Review: Need for Speed ProStreet
Street racing is back in this Electronic Arts game for Xbox 360 and PS3.You can compete in any of four game modes: drag, drift, grip and speed. I couldn't master all four because each requires different techniques, and I'm just a pedal-to-the-metal guy when it comes to racing games. You also can build your car, upload it to the Internet, and race against friends.
The graphics on both systems are startling -- particularly the damage effects. That damage can affect the cars and the drivers realistically, as can the smoke, flying dirt and dust clouds.
I liked the 360 version better because of the rumbling controller, but it's a cool little game on either system.
Rating:
Review: Scene It? Lights, Camera, Action
Microsoft Game Studios' movie trivia game for Xbox 360 comes with four special wireless "Big Button Pads," which you and up to three friends use to buzz in "Jeopardy!"-style.
The challenges -- like trying to guess the names of films based on children's drawings or a list of actors and actresses in the cast -- are awfully fun to take on with a group. I brought this out during a party over the holidays, and it was the hit of the night.
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Toyota Prius a gas guzzler against a BMW?
With gas rising well over $3 per gallon, I bet you've looked twice at that Toyota Prius hybrid that gets nearly 50 miles per gallon. It's becoming so beloved, and so economical that five states are allowing Prius drivers to roll in high occupancy lanes all by their lonesomes: Virginia, New York, New Jersey, Florida and Arizona.
But a new Sunday Times of London article indicates the Prius may get a run for its gas sipping money from a rather large BMW sedan, the 520d.
Two test drivers drove a 545-mile trek from London to Geneva in the Toyota and the Bimmer. The gas-powered Prius got 40.1 miles per galloon. The diesel-powered BMV got 41.9. And the test even included more in-city driving than usual to try to give the hybrid a chance to recharge its batteries in stop-and-go traffic.
The idea for the test came after two Times writers heard from readers who weren't getting the claimed mileage from their Priuses.
"If our readers are right and the official figure is wrong it has important implications, not least of which is that people driving frugal diesels are getting a raw deal," the paper said, since hybrids get some tax and roadway access benefits in Europe like here in the States.
-----------------------------------------
Langston Wertz Jr.
lwertz@charlotteobserver.com
But a new Sunday Times of London article indicates the Prius may get a run for its gas sipping money from a rather large BMW sedan, the 520d.
Two test drivers drove a 545-mile trek from London to Geneva in the Toyota and the Bimmer. The gas-powered Prius got 40.1 miles per galloon. The diesel-powered BMV got 41.9. And the test even included more in-city driving than usual to try to give the hybrid a chance to recharge its batteries in stop-and-go traffic.
The idea for the test came after two Times writers heard from readers who weren't getting the claimed mileage from their Priuses.
"If our readers are right and the official figure is wrong it has important implications, not least of which is that people driving frugal diesels are getting a raw deal," the paper said, since hybrids get some tax and roadway access benefits in Europe like here in the States.
-----------------------------------------
Langston Wertz Jr.
lwertz@charlotteobserver.com
Monday, February 25, 2008
Blu-Ray wins....and so do we
The biggest news to hit the video game industry last week really didn't have much to do with gaming.
Toshiba announced it is going to abandon HD-DVD, ceding the format war over next-generation players to Blu-Ray.
It's great news for most consumers, who can now upgrade to high-definition home video without having to worry about whether their new player will be a doorstop by Christmas. But it's also a big win for Sony's PlayStation 3 console.
Sony includes Blu-Ray compatibility in each PS3 console it sold. That was responsible for the initially high retail costs of the PS3 ($499 and $599, although the price point has since dropped to $399), but also for helping to create an instant installed base for Sony's new DVD technology.
With HD-DVD out, the PS3 -- for the moment -- has a big edge over the Xbox 360, which currently plays high-definition movies if you have the now-obsolete add-on HD-DVD drive.
But the 360 can rally back. Microsoft no doubt will continue to expand high-definition content distribution via the Xbox Live online network. And the company announced last week that Xbox Live is releasing software that will allow gamers to create their own games, and then share them over Xbox Live. Hopefully, it'll lead to the creation of a few innovative, mainstream hits.
Review: Need for Speed ProStreet
Street racing is back in this Electronic Arts game for Xbox 360 and PS3.You can compete in any of four game modes: drag, drift, grip and speed. I couldn't master all four because each requires different techniques, and I'm just a pedal-to-the-metal guy when it comes to racing games. You also can build your car, upload it to the Internet, and race against friends.
The graphics on both systems are startling -- particularly the damage effects. That damage can affect the cars and the drivers realistically, as can the smoke, flying dirt and dust clouds.
I liked the 360 version better because of the rumbling controller, but it's a cool little game on either system.
Rating:
Review: Scene It? Lights, Camera, Action
Microsoft Game Studios' movie trivia game for Xbox 360 comes with four special wireless "Big Button Pads," which you and up to three friends use to buzz in "Jeopardy!"-style.
The challenges -- like trying to guess the names of films based on children's drawings or a list of actors and actresses in the cast -- are awfully fun to take on with a group. I brought this out during a party over the holidays, and it was the hit of the night.
Toshiba announced it is going to abandon HD-DVD, ceding the format war over next-generation players to Blu-Ray.
It's great news for most consumers, who can now upgrade to high-definition home video without having to worry about whether their new player will be a doorstop by Christmas. But it's also a big win for Sony's PlayStation 3 console.
Sony includes Blu-Ray compatibility in each PS3 console it sold. That was responsible for the initially high retail costs of the PS3 ($499 and $599, although the price point has since dropped to $399), but also for helping to create an instant installed base for Sony's new DVD technology.
With HD-DVD out, the PS3 -- for the moment -- has a big edge over the Xbox 360, which currently plays high-definition movies if you have the now-obsolete add-on HD-DVD drive.
But the 360 can rally back. Microsoft no doubt will continue to expand high-definition content distribution via the Xbox Live online network. And the company announced last week that Xbox Live is releasing software that will allow gamers to create their own games, and then share them over Xbox Live. Hopefully, it'll lead to the creation of a few innovative, mainstream hits.
Review: Need for Speed ProStreet
Street racing is back in this Electronic Arts game for Xbox 360 and PS3.You can compete in any of four game modes: drag, drift, grip and speed. I couldn't master all four because each requires different techniques, and I'm just a pedal-to-the-metal guy when it comes to racing games. You also can build your car, upload it to the Internet, and race against friends.
The graphics on both systems are startling -- particularly the damage effects. That damage can affect the cars and the drivers realistically, as can the smoke, flying dirt and dust clouds.
I liked the 360 version better because of the rumbling controller, but it's a cool little game on either system.
Rating:
Review: Scene It? Lights, Camera, Action
Microsoft Game Studios' movie trivia game for Xbox 360 comes with four special wireless "Big Button Pads," which you and up to three friends use to buzz in "Jeopardy!"-style.
The challenges -- like trying to guess the names of films based on children's drawings or a list of actors and actresses in the cast -- are awfully fun to take on with a group. I brought this out during a party over the holidays, and it was the hit of the night.
Tuesday, February 05, 2008
New "Blow" energy drink looks like cocaine
Parents, don't let your kids grow up to be "Blow' drinkers.
There's this new energy drink available on the net that looks and handles like a brick of cocaine and it's called "Blow," slang for cocaine. It is white powder that comes in a vial and you pour it into your favorite drink and get a big burst of caffeine (as if most folks really need the equivalent of three cups of coffee in something).
And here's the thing. When you order "Blow," it comes with a credit card and a mirror -- as though you were going to use it like the real drug it's named after.
There's this new energy drink available on the net that looks and handles like a brick of cocaine and it's called "Blow," slang for cocaine. It is white powder that comes in a vial and you pour it into your favorite drink and get a big burst of caffeine (as if most folks really need the equivalent of three cups of coffee in something).
And here's the thing. When you order "Blow," it comes with a credit card and a mirror -- as though you were going to use it like the real drug it's named after.
Monday, January 28, 2008
A new PlayStation 3 with Dual Shock on the way?
According to industry gossip site Ars Technica, Sony is going to do away with the current 80 gig PlayStation 3 and release one with a larger hard drive and the new Dual Shock 3 controller.
The current PS3 has a wireless controller with no vibration feature, something many gamers miss.
I think that wouldn't be a bad move, so long as Sony doesn't blast the price back up and keeps the current cheaper 40 gig model.
The current PS3 has a wireless controller with no vibration feature, something many gamers miss.
I think that wouldn't be a bad move, so long as Sony doesn't blast the price back up and keeps the current cheaper 40 gig model.
2007 was a big year for gaming; '08 even better?
Sales of video games, consoles soared in '07
Microsoft takes big lead over Sony, which plans several new releases
LANGSTON WERTZ JR.
Last year was a very good one for the video game industry.
According to a report released last week by industry trackers the NPD Group, U.S. game and console sales hit nearly $18 billion. That was 43 percent higher than in 2006.
Hardware sales were up 54 percent. Console software sales were up 39 percent.
And those sales figures don't include PC games or online sales.
Nintendo's Wii console was the big winner with 6.3 million sold. Microsoft sold 4.6 million Xbox 360s despite a billion-dollar hardware failure controversy, and Sony, once the dominant player in the industry, moved 2.6 million PlayStation3 units.
The Wii sells for $250. The Xbox goes between $280 and $450 and the PS3 is $499.
"What these numbers tell me is that the closer you get to the magic $200 price point, the better your sales," said analyst Rob Enderle of consulting company the Enderle Group.
According to the NPD Group, Sony has sold 3.25 million since its November 2006 launch compared with 7.4 million Wiis, which Nintendo launched about the same time.
Microsoft released the Xbox in November 2005, a full year ahead of its rivals, and it has sold 9.15 million in its life span.
"Microsoft has a pretty serious lead over Sony," said analyst Van Baker at research company Gartner. "It's unclear whether Sony can catch up. By the end of this year, the game will largely be over. This is a critical year for Sony."
In 2008, Sony plans some releases that could generate "Halo"-level buzz: the final episode of the best-selling "Metal Gear Solid" series, new installments of "Kill Zone" and "Devil May Cry" games and "Little Big Planet," a new franchise that is getting early critical praise.
In November, Sony's PS3 had the greatest month-to-month increase in November unit sales of all the next gen systems at 70 percent. With software sales apparently about to ramp up, Sony still has time to get back in the race.
But it is an uphill battle. Microsoft has a better online experience, and recent deals to include network and movie programming via Xbox Live could make the 360 unit more attractive to potential buyers looking for a difference between Microsoft and Sony's offerings.
And Microsoft's "Halo 3" sold 4.8 million copies in 2007, despite being released in September. Microsoft gained a lot of momentum from that exclusive title. In 2008, as Sony makes a push to get back into the game, Microsoft needs to find another software title, like Halo, to help boost sales.
A few other notes:
• Xbox 360 had three games in top 10 of sales: No. 1 "Halo 3" (4.82 million); No. 3 "Call of Duty 4" (3.04); and No. 9 "Assassin's Creed" (1.87).
Sony had three PS2 games in the top 10, but no PS3 or PSP titles.
"Guitar Hero III" was fourth (2.72), "Madden 08" was seventh (1.9) and "Guitar Hero II" was eighth (1.89).
• "Guitar Hero" games did more than $820 million in U.S. sales, a single-year record for a game franchise.
• Nintendo had the No. 2 game ("Wii Play," 4.12 million); No. 5 game (Wii's "Super Mario Galaxy," 2.52); No. 6 (DS "Pokemon Diamond," 2.48); and No. 10 (Wii's "Mario Party 8," 1.82)
-- The Associated Press contributed.
Microsoft takes big lead over Sony, which plans several new releases
LANGSTON WERTZ JR.
Last year was a very good one for the video game industry.
According to a report released last week by industry trackers the NPD Group, U.S. game and console sales hit nearly $18 billion. That was 43 percent higher than in 2006.
Hardware sales were up 54 percent. Console software sales were up 39 percent.
And those sales figures don't include PC games or online sales.
Nintendo's Wii console was the big winner with 6.3 million sold. Microsoft sold 4.6 million Xbox 360s despite a billion-dollar hardware failure controversy, and Sony, once the dominant player in the industry, moved 2.6 million PlayStation3 units.
The Wii sells for $250. The Xbox goes between $280 and $450 and the PS3 is $499.
"What these numbers tell me is that the closer you get to the magic $200 price point, the better your sales," said analyst Rob Enderle of consulting company the Enderle Group.
According to the NPD Group, Sony has sold 3.25 million since its November 2006 launch compared with 7.4 million Wiis, which Nintendo launched about the same time.
Microsoft released the Xbox in November 2005, a full year ahead of its rivals, and it has sold 9.15 million in its life span.
"Microsoft has a pretty serious lead over Sony," said analyst Van Baker at research company Gartner. "It's unclear whether Sony can catch up. By the end of this year, the game will largely be over. This is a critical year for Sony."
In 2008, Sony plans some releases that could generate "Halo"-level buzz: the final episode of the best-selling "Metal Gear Solid" series, new installments of "Kill Zone" and "Devil May Cry" games and "Little Big Planet," a new franchise that is getting early critical praise.
In November, Sony's PS3 had the greatest month-to-month increase in November unit sales of all the next gen systems at 70 percent. With software sales apparently about to ramp up, Sony still has time to get back in the race.
But it is an uphill battle. Microsoft has a better online experience, and recent deals to include network and movie programming via Xbox Live could make the 360 unit more attractive to potential buyers looking for a difference between Microsoft and Sony's offerings.
And Microsoft's "Halo 3" sold 4.8 million copies in 2007, despite being released in September. Microsoft gained a lot of momentum from that exclusive title. In 2008, as Sony makes a push to get back into the game, Microsoft needs to find another software title, like Halo, to help boost sales.
A few other notes:
• Xbox 360 had three games in top 10 of sales: No. 1 "Halo 3" (4.82 million); No. 3 "Call of Duty 4" (3.04); and No. 9 "Assassin's Creed" (1.87).
Sony had three PS2 games in the top 10, but no PS3 or PSP titles.
"Guitar Hero III" was fourth (2.72), "Madden 08" was seventh (1.9) and "Guitar Hero II" was eighth (1.89).
• "Guitar Hero" games did more than $820 million in U.S. sales, a single-year record for a game franchise.
• Nintendo had the No. 2 game ("Wii Play," 4.12 million); No. 5 game (Wii's "Super Mario Galaxy," 2.52); No. 6 (DS "Pokemon Diamond," 2.48); and No. 10 (Wii's "Mario Party 8," 1.82)
-- The Associated Press contributed.
NCAA game simulations are must-have software
New games show real court sense
College Hoops and March Madness have authentic feel to them
LANGSTON WERTZ JR.
EA Sports 'NCAA '08 March Madness'With college basketball in full swing (and with the big Duke-North Carolina game coming up Feb. 6), I've been playing a lot of NCAA hoops video games.
Last month, I tested 2K Sports' College Hoops 2K8 and rated it an A. As I played EA Sports' NCAA '08 March Madness over the holidays and the past few weeks, it was hard to not compare the two.
Both games really get the look and sound of college ball.
In NCAA '08's case, the arenas, player models and uniforms have been re-drawn to look more realistic. EA Sports also utilizes the best announcer in college basketball, Dick Vitale; the commentary from Vitale, play-by-play man Brad Nessler and sideline reporter Erin Andrews lend credibility to the proceedings.
NCAA '08 has emphasized the big men this year with something called "Dynamic Post Control," giving players more control over post play. The big men have more tons of moves, although there are too many guys who come off like the second coming of Kevin McHale. I'd like to see average players have abilities more commensurate with their real-life counterparts.
But that's a small quibble.
The game has more than 70 classic teams, like the 1982, 1993 and 2005 Tar Heels teams, the '92 and '94 Duke teams, and even the N.C. State squad from 1983. You can pair them up and go at it.
I also liked having custom playbooks in NCAA '08 for every team, plus a new "Lockdown Stick" feature that allows you to play tough defense. But again, this could be more realistic, as I found some benchwarmers able to lock down other team's No. 1 options.
In NCAA, you'll notice players reacting differently to crowds at home and on the road. Your stud freshman might get 15 points per game at home but struggle in a tight road game. All this adds to the realism.
There's also a new feature called "Impact Moment," where you can direct your player to interact with his team, the other team, the crowd or the cheerleaders. You can use it only when your team's intensity meter is full. It can change the direction of the game -- for good and bad.
A deeper dynasty mode allows you to take over a team and run it from top to bottom over many years. That extends this game's shelf life immeasurably. You can also take control of simulated games at any point, play the high school McDonald's All-America game, or play in an online league with up to 32 players.
In the end, picking between 2K8 and NCAA '08 is a tough call. I think player movement is a little smoother in 2K8, while graphics and details are a little better in the EA Sports version. I rate them both an A and suggest you rent them first or try them in the stores before making a decision.
I don't think you'll go wrong either way.
Watch `Madden' on Gameplay
• DISH Network subscribers can watch the 2007 EA Sports Madden Challenge on Gameplay HD, a full-time gaming channel, beginning Feb. 2.
The 1 p.m. broadcast will introduce contestants; subsequent episodes will also air 1 p.m. Saturdays.
College Hoops and March Madness have authentic feel to them
LANGSTON WERTZ JR.
EA Sports 'NCAA '08 March Madness'With college basketball in full swing (and with the big Duke-North Carolina game coming up Feb. 6), I've been playing a lot of NCAA hoops video games.
Last month, I tested 2K Sports' College Hoops 2K8 and rated it an A. As I played EA Sports' NCAA '08 March Madness over the holidays and the past few weeks, it was hard to not compare the two.
Both games really get the look and sound of college ball.
In NCAA '08's case, the arenas, player models and uniforms have been re-drawn to look more realistic. EA Sports also utilizes the best announcer in college basketball, Dick Vitale; the commentary from Vitale, play-by-play man Brad Nessler and sideline reporter Erin Andrews lend credibility to the proceedings.
NCAA '08 has emphasized the big men this year with something called "Dynamic Post Control," giving players more control over post play. The big men have more tons of moves, although there are too many guys who come off like the second coming of Kevin McHale. I'd like to see average players have abilities more commensurate with their real-life counterparts.
But that's a small quibble.
The game has more than 70 classic teams, like the 1982, 1993 and 2005 Tar Heels teams, the '92 and '94 Duke teams, and even the N.C. State squad from 1983. You can pair them up and go at it.
I also liked having custom playbooks in NCAA '08 for every team, plus a new "Lockdown Stick" feature that allows you to play tough defense. But again, this could be more realistic, as I found some benchwarmers able to lock down other team's No. 1 options.
In NCAA, you'll notice players reacting differently to crowds at home and on the road. Your stud freshman might get 15 points per game at home but struggle in a tight road game. All this adds to the realism.
There's also a new feature called "Impact Moment," where you can direct your player to interact with his team, the other team, the crowd or the cheerleaders. You can use it only when your team's intensity meter is full. It can change the direction of the game -- for good and bad.
A deeper dynasty mode allows you to take over a team and run it from top to bottom over many years. That extends this game's shelf life immeasurably. You can also take control of simulated games at any point, play the high school McDonald's All-America game, or play in an online league with up to 32 players.
In the end, picking between 2K8 and NCAA '08 is a tough call. I think player movement is a little smoother in 2K8, while graphics and details are a little better in the EA Sports version. I rate them both an A and suggest you rent them first or try them in the stores before making a decision.
I don't think you'll go wrong either way.
Watch `Madden' on Gameplay
• DISH Network subscribers can watch the 2007 EA Sports Madden Challenge on Gameplay HD, a full-time gaming channel, beginning Feb. 2.
The 1 p.m. broadcast will introduce contestants; subsequent episodes will also air 1 p.m. Saturdays.
Saturday, January 26, 2008
Technology makes golf easier for beginners
Golf gains thousands of new players each year.
But it loses just as many. The reason is simple: the game is hard. And frustrating.
Good news for newbies. Golf technology is on the way to make the game easier. Cobra Golf's new LV4 driver uses an extra large clubface to inspire confidence and technology is built into the clubface so golfers get good distance no matter what part of that face they hit the ball with.
Very few high handicappers hit a driver -- or any club -- in the center, where most have been designed to play best from. The result is low shots, shots that fly far right of the target, or shots that simply hit the ground quickly and roll to a stop about 30 yards in front of you.
Callaway Golf and TaylorMade have new drivers out where golfers can actually remove the shafts with what amounts to a screwdriver. This allows the golfer to use a really soft shaft to help hit the ball high or a stiffer one to keep it low, or something in between.
The beginning golfer could swap shafts out as he gets better, using an extra light, extra soft stick to hit it out there a little bit, and tailor it to his game as he (hopefully gets lessons) and improves.
Ball technology is also improving. TaylorMade's new line helps encourage off-center hits to fly further. Titleist has a line of balls designed to roll more and another in the same family designed to fly higher.
You can read more about golf equipment in my golf gear column by clicking here.
You can read the latest installment here.
But it loses just as many. The reason is simple: the game is hard. And frustrating.
Good news for newbies. Golf technology is on the way to make the game easier. Cobra Golf's new LV4 driver uses an extra large clubface to inspire confidence and technology is built into the clubface so golfers get good distance no matter what part of that face they hit the ball with.
Very few high handicappers hit a driver -- or any club -- in the center, where most have been designed to play best from. The result is low shots, shots that fly far right of the target, or shots that simply hit the ground quickly and roll to a stop about 30 yards in front of you.
Callaway Golf and TaylorMade have new drivers out where golfers can actually remove the shafts with what amounts to a screwdriver. This allows the golfer to use a really soft shaft to help hit the ball high or a stiffer one to keep it low, or something in between.
The beginning golfer could swap shafts out as he gets better, using an extra light, extra soft stick to hit it out there a little bit, and tailor it to his game as he (hopefully gets lessons) and improves.
Ball technology is also improving. TaylorMade's new line helps encourage off-center hits to fly further. Titleist has a line of balls designed to roll more and another in the same family designed to fly higher.
You can read more about golf equipment in my golf gear column by clicking here.
You can read the latest installment here.
Friday, January 18, 2008
Soulja boy not as fun and wholesome as you think
If you're a parent of young kids, like me, chances are your kids have come home singing the catchy "Crank That" song by 17-year-old Atlanta rapper Soulja Boy, who is scheduled to be in town this weekend. Soulja Boy self-published "Crank That," which later ended up at No. 1 on Billboard's Top 100 charts.
Soulja Boy's got a dance that goes with the song that entire teams and cheerleaders are doing on college and high school sidelines.
I guess I'm getting older because I couldn't figure out what Soulja Boy was saying in the song. I kept thinking it was "Soulja Boy ol'-N-E-oh" or something. At least that's what I heard my kids saying.
So when I checked out the lyrics I was surprised that "Crank That" was really a song about Soulja being sexually frustrated with a date. Keeping it as clean as possible, he talks about doing something called "Superman," which is basically performing a retaliatory solo sexual act on the date while she is sleeping.
And the nonsensical lyrics I thought I heard are repeated bluntly over and over again throughout the song. The version of this song too dirty to play on radio is even worse.
I get that rappers rap about what's going on in their lives and 'hoods. That's fine. I get that sex is part of life, but the way Soulja is being promoted as a wholesome figure with a fun dance -- particularly how young kids are picking it up -- bothers me.
I'm going to put the brakes on my kids singing and listening to Soulja Boy. Just thought you all might want to know what your kids are really singing about.
Soulja Boy's got a dance that goes with the song that entire teams and cheerleaders are doing on college and high school sidelines.
I guess I'm getting older because I couldn't figure out what Soulja Boy was saying in the song. I kept thinking it was "Soulja Boy ol'-N-E-oh" or something. At least that's what I heard my kids saying.
So when I checked out the lyrics I was surprised that "Crank That" was really a song about Soulja being sexually frustrated with a date. Keeping it as clean as possible, he talks about doing something called "Superman," which is basically performing a retaliatory solo sexual act on the date while she is sleeping.
And the nonsensical lyrics I thought I heard are repeated bluntly over and over again throughout the song. The version of this song too dirty to play on radio is even worse.
I get that rappers rap about what's going on in their lives and 'hoods. That's fine. I get that sex is part of life, but the way Soulja is being promoted as a wholesome figure with a fun dance -- particularly how young kids are picking it up -- bothers me.
I'm going to put the brakes on my kids singing and listening to Soulja Boy. Just thought you all might want to know what your kids are really singing about.
"Circuit-based" contact lens = superhuman vision?
Engineers at the University of Washington have created a flexible, biologically safe contact lens with an imprinted electronic circuit and lights.
They showed off their latest invention at the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers' international conference in Livermore, Calif.
How could it change your life? Imagine tossing your flat screen and looking at truly hi-def TV in your eyes or playing a videogame that way. You could surf the internet, without a laptop, virtually anywhere.
The prototype device contains an electric circuit as well as red light-emitting diodes for a display, though it does not yet light up. The researchers tested the lenses on rabbits for up to 20 minutes and the animals showed no adverse effects.
The prototype does not correct the wearer's vision, but the technique could be used on a corrective lens, and all the gadgetry won't obstruct a person's view.
And researchers say a basic version of this technology could be ready fairly quickly.
They showed off their latest invention at the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers' international conference in Livermore, Calif.
How could it change your life? Imagine tossing your flat screen and looking at truly hi-def TV in your eyes or playing a videogame that way. You could surf the internet, without a laptop, virtually anywhere.
The prototype device contains an electric circuit as well as red light-emitting diodes for a display, though it does not yet light up. The researchers tested the lenses on rabbits for up to 20 minutes and the animals showed no adverse effects.
The prototype does not correct the wearer's vision, but the technique could be used on a corrective lens, and all the gadgetry won't obstruct a person's view.
And researchers say a basic version of this technology could be ready fairly quickly.
Monday, January 14, 2008
New Honda Pilot full of techno-gadgets
For years, Honda's Pilot SUV has been a staple of Americana. It has earned Car and Driver Magazine's prestigious "5 Best Truck" award six straight years, from 2002-07. It's big, with room for eight and wasn't too terrible on gas. Monday, Honda unveiled a prototype for the newly redesigned Pilot that debuts late this spring at the 2008 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.
The prototype is boxier than the old Pilot and brings to mind several U.S. SUVs. Honda claims the new version has more interior room and some gas-saving gadgetry.
Honda claims a 6-foot man can comfortably park himself in the third room thanks to a redesigned platform. All 2009 Pilots will feature Honda-exclusive Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure and the most extensive use of high-strength steel in any Honda product to date.
The ACE body structure enhances frontal collision compatibility with vehicles of different sizes and bumper heights. A pedestrian injury mitigation design in the front of the vehicle is designed to help absorb energy in the event of a collision.
The Pilot's V^ entine will operate in a six-cylinder mode for power and four and three-cylinder modes during cruising to improve gas efficiency.
The interior is very futuristic with XM radio and iPod ports, satellite based navigation and Honda has also moved the gearshift to sit next to the radio controls on the dash, away from the steering wheel.
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