Well, there I was just a few moments ago ready, willing and (shall we say) able to upload my latest blog.
And then 'it' happened. You know what that 'it' is. The 'it' was, as a matter of fact, the copy previously known as your homework, your letter to the bank manager, your application form, your 700 word blog update...
Within the space of just a few seconds, all the hard work is gone... it's vanished... it is now known as the file which 'used to be' your work.
That situation is one of my gripes with the world-wide web. You can work all you like tip-tapping away and then, when you click the 'ok', 'attach' or 'publish' button it ceases to exist.
You 'refresh', click 'back', hit 'F5' or just curse and swear at the screen for a few seconds but you just know all efforts are in vain.
You've lost the work and there's nothing you can do about it. In a desparate attempt to reclaim what was once yours, you click the screen icon which tells you that your drafts have been saved and guess what...? For some reason unbeknown to man, the task failed.
Computer 1 - Human user nil. Gutted.
Personally I might be a tad more positive if I knew exactly why 'it' happens.
Was it something I said or wrote? Was it something I DIDN'T say or write?
In retrospect though it's given me inspiration. Yes, ok, I've wasted twice the amount of time I should have, but then again maybe this grumble (and it is SOOOOOO a grumble. Soz) is actually better than my original blog entry. In fact, maybe I should admit it is because you guys will never know!
Whatever. The fact that it has happened has given me ammunition for an idea for a new new blog entry. And here it is, and besides... that's what blogs should be about right? Gripes and grumbles.
Now, you'll have to excuse me while I go and fetch a tool so I can exact my revenge on this lesser (computer) being.
Thursday, 23 August 2007
Friday, 17 August 2007
It's life Jim... but not as we know it
Whether it's a touching story of love, or a futuristic sci-fi set in 2050, films put the viewer in an alternative world where their imagination can run wild.
I've often wondered whether the hi-tech gadgets that I've seen in films, would actually one day make it onto the open market.
I'm sure that fans of the Star Trek films thought the same when they saw Kirk using his flip communicators. You only have to look in any of our high street mobile phone shops now to see the cooler equivalent.
But I have to admit, never did I imagine that something like the security system in Tom Cruise's epic futuristic flick 'Minority Report' (in which police arrest the perpetrators of future crimes predicted by psychics) would ever become part of our unassuming world.
Such a system is currently being developed in the US to remotely screen air passengers who might be considering a terrorist attack.
The aim of Project Hostile Intent (PHI) is to find a way of catching would-be terrorists when they are just thinking of committing a crime.
A battery of lasers, cameras, eye trackers and microphones would be used to spot tiny changes in facial expression, pulse, perspiration, and gait that give away "current or future hostile intentions".
After tests at a handful of air and sea ports and border checkpoints the system could be deployed at all US entry points by 2012.
But critics claim Project Hostile Intent is unworkable.
The system is being developed by scientists working for the US Department of Homeland Security, New Scientist magazine has reported.
It would employ some of the techniques already used in polygraph lie detectors and by security staff trained in recognising body language.
But PHI would have to operate remotely, screening thousands of passengers having their bags checked or waiting to show their passports, most of whom will be innocent.
Computers would be used to carry out a rapid assessment of all the data received. Identified individuals would be apprehended and led off to be interviewed by security officers.
Since 2003, a system called Screening Passengers through Observation Techniques (Spot) has already been used at airports in the US. It uses trained "behaviour detection officers" who have been taught how to recognise suspicious "micro-expressions" in people milling around airports that may signify guilt or deception.
Spot has had some success and ensnared drug dealers, money launderers and one double murderer.
However it is expensive, labour intensive and time consuming. PHI is intended to automate Spot while at the same time increasing the number of signals that can be investigated.
Other experts pointed out that airports are high-stress places filled with people who are bored, tired, saying goodbye to loved ones, carrying upset children, late for flights or perhaps scared of flying. Any system that flagged up signs of stress was likely to target innocent people.
Hmmm... the mind boggles.
Other ideas generated in 'Minority Report' have also been adopted by the likes of technology giant Microsoft.
Microsoft Surface uses the same idea of dragging files around either a vertical or horizontal screen. To transfer files between mobile phones, all users have to do is place them on the table-style screen and drag (using your finger) photos, music or video files or files in text format between the phones.
By placing a digital camera or video camera on the screen it does the same, bringing up all the images and files for the viewer to see.
Microsoft Surface boasts to being the future. In a Microsoft world people will be able to pay for their restaurant or bar bill by simply placing their credit cards on the screen and rotating a circular icon up or down to decide how much of a tip to leave. To order more food or drinks you would simply touch an icon on the screen.
Visit: http://www.microsoft.com/surface/. Impressed? You should be.
=================================================
Oh, before I forget... welcome to Game On's new look page. Pretty funky ain't it?! Any ideas for features, reviews, competitions or anything else for that matter, drop me an email at tnichols@eveningherald.co.uk.
=======================================================
Here's this week's best games:
Title: Guitar Hero: Rock the 80's
Platform: Sony PS2
RRP: £39.99
Hit count: 4/5
Guitar Hero is undoubtedly one of the best ideas for a video game in recent years. While the concept of the Wii is spot on with its interaction, there's something ultimately a lot cooler about wielding an 'axe' rather than a box controller.
This latest version sees you perform countless hits from the age that brought us luminous socks and Madonna.
While there's no doubt that the children of the eighties will love this, those that find it difficult to appreciate the likes of 'Flock of Seagulls' and 'Asia' will be hard-pressed to appreciate this.
While I can wholly support rocking out to the likes of Alice Cooper or ACDC in the original Guitar Hero version, this just doesn't feel quite right.
Title: Bioshock
Platform: Xbox 360
RRP: £49.99
Hit count: 5/5
It's always hard to review a game having already a review with it being given 10/10 on all counts. I almost feel a necessity to mark it down just for it being so darn good... but sadly I can't.
Bioshock is what a fast-paced all action shooter should be. Full of weapons, Doom-like playability, creepy music and sound recordings and, well, action.
The Bioshock plot places the player in Rapture, a world deep underwater where scientists were supposed to create a new and improved world for human kind.
As is always the case, something went wrong along the way and it's the main character's bag to fix it.
This is an awesome game worthy of the top marks. Buy it NOW.
Wednesday, 1 August 2007
August 1
It's a good feeling knowing you're doing your bit to save the planet by changing a few things in your world.
So am I recycling more...? No, not a lot.
Am I changing my lightbulbs to energy saving ones...? Sure, maybe a couple.
Have I ditched the car and bought a push bike? Not on your nelly.
But what I have done is stopped using Google as my search engine in favour of a new greener well, blacker, alternative.
'Blackle' (www.blackle.com) was created earlier this year by Heap Media in a bid to save energy.
With its searches powered by Google Custom Search, Blackle saves energy because the screen is predominantly black.
As it states on its 'About Blackle' link: "In January 2007 a blog post titled Black Google Would Save 750 Megawatt-hours a Year proposed the theory that a black version of the Google search engine would save a fair bit of energy due to the popularity of the search engine.
"Since then there has been skepticism about the significance of the energy savings that can be achieved and the cost in terms of readability of black web pages.
"We believe that there is value in the concept because even if the energy savings are small, they all add up.
"Secondly we feel that seeing Blackle every time we load our web browser reminds us that we need to keep taking small steps to save energy."
Those nice people at Blackle claim that if computer users set the search page as their home page, they will save a little bit of energy everytime they connect to the internet.
By the time that I came across it a counter stated that 125,281.348 Watt hours had been saved.
While Blackle doesn't offer the same options for searching images, maps or news, it's surely only a matter of time before it begins developing the search engine to compete with the Google giant.
While I can only apologise for my lack of blog activity lately (Been busy buying a house see...) at least I can boast I have been helping to save the planet. Albeit in small steps.
(Rather hypocritically) here are the latest games reviews:
Title: Transformers: The Game
Platform: Xbox 360
RRP: £29.99
Hit count: 4/5
At last... a game that packs the punches of its movie franchise! And how long have we been waiting for Transformers to come to the consoles...? Too long that's how long.
In Tranformers: The Game you can choose which team you want to be on: The nicey nicey Autobots, or the cooler than cool Decepticons.
Like the movie it is difficult to tell one end of a robot from the other due to the detail of the graphics and the colours used, but the action scenes are fun and the array of weapons is awesome!
Smash, blast and wreck your way through the various levels... or simply smash up everything in your path be it buildings, cars or lamp posts. Oh, and the coolest but? You get to transform as often as you like into helicopters, planes cars or trucks!
For me the only snag to the game is the sometimes confusing graphics and the shortage of characters. While the good old Transformers comics and the series boasted bloody loads, the game and latest movie sadly boast around 10.
Still when you're having this much fun... who cares about the cast?
Title: Big Brain Academy
Platform: Nintendo Wii
RRP: £39.99
Hit count: 2/5
Yawn... I'm sorry but if I spend money on a game I expect action and adventure, and to be taken to a magical place removed from my old school classroom.
But with this game I find myself back there testing my memory and numeracy skills.
While I can appreciate that it might be fun for a family with small children eager to strengthen their brain power, I found this all rather dull. The Wii is a great fun console, but this is rather bland.
So am I recycling more...? No, not a lot.
Am I changing my lightbulbs to energy saving ones...? Sure, maybe a couple.
Have I ditched the car and bought a push bike? Not on your nelly.
But what I have done is stopped using Google as my search engine in favour of a new greener well, blacker, alternative.
'Blackle' (www.blackle.com) was created earlier this year by Heap Media in a bid to save energy.
With its searches powered by Google Custom Search, Blackle saves energy because the screen is predominantly black.
As it states on its 'About Blackle' link: "In January 2007 a blog post titled Black Google Would Save 750 Megawatt-hours a Year proposed the theory that a black version of the Google search engine would save a fair bit of energy due to the popularity of the search engine.
"Since then there has been skepticism about the significance of the energy savings that can be achieved and the cost in terms of readability of black web pages.
"We believe that there is value in the concept because even if the energy savings are small, they all add up.
"Secondly we feel that seeing Blackle every time we load our web browser reminds us that we need to keep taking small steps to save energy."
Those nice people at Blackle claim that if computer users set the search page as their home page, they will save a little bit of energy everytime they connect to the internet.
By the time that I came across it a counter stated that 125,281.348 Watt hours had been saved.
While Blackle doesn't offer the same options for searching images, maps or news, it's surely only a matter of time before it begins developing the search engine to compete with the Google giant.
While I can only apologise for my lack of blog activity lately (Been busy buying a house see...) at least I can boast I have been helping to save the planet. Albeit in small steps.
(Rather hypocritically) here are the latest games reviews:
Title: Transformers: The Game
Platform: Xbox 360
RRP: £29.99
Hit count: 4/5
At last... a game that packs the punches of its movie franchise! And how long have we been waiting for Transformers to come to the consoles...? Too long that's how long.
In Tranformers: The Game you can choose which team you want to be on: The nicey nicey Autobots, or the cooler than cool Decepticons.
Like the movie it is difficult to tell one end of a robot from the other due to the detail of the graphics and the colours used, but the action scenes are fun and the array of weapons is awesome!
Smash, blast and wreck your way through the various levels... or simply smash up everything in your path be it buildings, cars or lamp posts. Oh, and the coolest but? You get to transform as often as you like into helicopters, planes cars or trucks!
For me the only snag to the game is the sometimes confusing graphics and the shortage of characters. While the good old Transformers comics and the series boasted bloody loads, the game and latest movie sadly boast around 10.
Still when you're having this much fun... who cares about the cast?
Title: Big Brain Academy
Platform: Nintendo Wii
RRP: £39.99
Hit count: 2/5
Yawn... I'm sorry but if I spend money on a game I expect action and adventure, and to be taken to a magical place removed from my old school classroom.
But with this game I find myself back there testing my memory and numeracy skills.
While I can appreciate that it might be fun for a family with small children eager to strengthen their brain power, I found this all rather dull. The Wii is a great fun console, but this is rather bland.
Tuesday, 10 July 2007
July 10
Buying a television isn't like it used to be is it...?
I mean back in the old days it was simply a case of seeing a brand you liked, saying something like "ooh, that's cheap..." and before you knew it you were watching a brand new box in your front room.
Nowadays the choices are endless, the prices are bonkers and then you've got the whole HD era to confuse you.
I'm going through the whole process at the moment and, I must say, I've learned a lot about a whole bunch of things a month ago I never knew I was missing out on.
So in this latest blog I will try to break it down for you and help clear the mist (or is that static) of confusion.
Earlier this year I decided to upgrade (or pimp) my home sound and visual setup. Like many others I spent a fortune on buying a 60GB PS3 and, within hours of doing so, realised I needed an HD (High Definition) TV to make the best use of it.
Basically for those that have been living in a cupboard for the last year or so, we are now living in an HD world.
And for those that don't know what HD is, allow our friends at Wikipedia to explain...
"High-definition television (HDTV) is a digital television broadcasting system with a significantly higher resolution than traditional formats (NTSC, SECAM, PAL).
"While some early analog HDTV formats were broadcast in Europe and Japan, HDTV is usually broadcast digitally, because digital television (DTV) broadcasting requires much less bandwith.
"HDTV technology was first introduced in the US during the 1990s by a group of electronics companies called the Digital HDTV Grand Alliance."
Speaking in layman's terms, HDTV is the next generation of home entertainment viewing and sound. The picture quality is sharper, brighter and more defined and the sound is crystal clear.
The problem that people face when buying a new HDTV is deciding which one is better than any other.
Many people first became aware of the HD revolution when the Sony Bravia advert (remember the one with the multi-coloured balls bouncing down the street?) hit our screens.
Since then literally hundreds of television manufacturers have developed their own HD units to compete at varying prices.
Such is the competition in the market at the moment that the average price of a brand new HD TV is now around £500. That's a drop of around £500 from the original £1,000 average asking price.
While the electronic giants including Sony, Panasonic, Philips and LG have all released numerous models of all shapes and sizes, the market has allowed the lesser-known manufacturers like Technosonic and Digihome to release their own HD units at lower prices.
While many would rather trust the reputation of more well-known brands, the cheaper options are actually really quite good and well worth the money and the gamble.
However, if... like me, you feel safer in the knowledge that you have bought a brand name proven in the past then the prices are right at the moment to go for broke.
For the true tech-heads among us there are a number of product features to look at specifically when buying an HDTV.
Firstly the 'contrast ratio' is an important feature to look at.
Put simply, contrast ratio is the scale between the brightest and darkest colours that the screen can produce at the same time.
Fact: Televisions with a higher contrast ratio are considered to be better than ones with lower contrast ratios. Examples include 1,200:1 and 7,500:1 (the latter being considered better).
Secondly, it's worth looking at the 'pixel resolution'. Again, in layman's terms this refers to the number of pixels that can be displayed on the screen. The more the merrier!
Another important factor is the 'response time' for the unit. This is the amount of time taken for the screen to respond in milliseconds. The quicker the better. 8 milliseconds is a very good speed.
However it is worth remembering that manufacturers like to make things a tad difficult by making up their own features and renditions of them.
It is also worth remembering when buying an HDTV that 'HD Ready' is different to 'Full HD'.
Basically HD Ready means that it is ready to display high definition programmes/DVDs and game console graphics providing that the TV has high definition information fed to it.
The BBC and Sky are currently working on HD programmes and HD channels but they are not up to scratch yet and have not been fully launched.
Full HD means that it will feature full HD when the whole HD revolution is on line. For now, I wouldn't worry too much.
As long as you have the HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) cables essential for relaying the information you'll be fine.
So if you use this blog as your checklist, you won't go far wrong in picking a good HDTV and vastly enhancing your television experience. ===========================================================
Congratulations to Ian Smith of Whitleigh for winning a fab Nintendo DS and a copy of Touchmaster.
===========================================================
And if you were one of the unlucky ones here's another chance to win some fab goodies!
Game On has teamed up with NCsoft to offer two blog readers a copy of city of heroes city of villains on the PC, a hat, T-shirt, NCsoft mouse, figurines, a Lord
Recluse statue, posters and a bag.
One mission, Two sides, An epic tale of good versus evil, NCsoft brings to you the ninth issue of City Of Heroes City Of Villains, Breakthrough.
Become a Hero and keep it clean in Paragon City or, get your hands a little dirty in the Rogue Isles. Join forces with the villains and hit the black markets for some dodgy deals and hell raising destruction.
City of Heroes City of Villains, Breakthrough, is the ultimate and unique online game play filled with thousands of other heroes and villains worldwide.
Choose your team and create your identity as you face your arch-enemies in head to head battles of good versus evil. Customize your character and select from thousands of powers, skills and costumes, then the battle begins. Prepare to defend the world you chose to live in.
Explore the stunning scenery and skyscrapers, dirty filled sewers and dangerous backstreets if you are brave enough?
To win a goodie bag all readers have to do is answer a simple question and email me the answer - together with your address and phone number - to tnichols@eveningherald.co.uk with NCsoft competiton' written in the subject line.
Couldn't be simpler if you've read the above text!
And here's the simple question - Which edition of the game is City Of Heroes City Of Villains, Breakthrough?
a). Third?
b). Seventh? or
c). Ninth?
When emailing in an entry please, please, PLEASE also include your daytime telephone number.
Closing date for entries is Friday 20th July. Only one entry per household is permitted. The editor's decision is final, and the first correct entry chosen will win the prize as stated. No correspondence will be entered into. The Herald accepts no responsibility for any damage or injury caused by competition prizes. Any inquiries should be directed to the manufacturer or retailer. Employees of South West Media Group Ltd and their families are ineligible to enter. The promoter is NCsoft, and you are advised to retain this information.
REVIEWS:
Title: Harry Potter & The Order of the Phoenix
Platform: PS2 RRP: &dollar39.99
Hit count: 4/5
Imagine Grand Theft Auto but with wizards. Now you have some idea of how the fab new Harry Potter game works.
Anyone will tell you that games based on films don't really work. (Look at the Spiderman 3 title). But this one is different.
In Harry Potter & The Order of the Phoenix you get to explore Hogwarts and complete missions and unlock new and exciting spells.
And this time players get to control only Harry with the other two main characters acting in supporting roles.
The game is addictive with its free roam playability, and graphically it's pretty good.
Title: Pokemon Pearl
Platform: Nintendo DS RRP: &dollar29.99
Hit count: 3/5
For me, this series is what the Nintendo DS is all about. Pokemon was one of the first games I played on the console... and one of the last games on it that I loved.
You set off either as a boy or girl trainer to the Sinnoh region where two famous Pokemon live. Your objective is to befriend the two Pokemon before Team Galaxy take control of their powers.
Over the years Pokemon fans have caught glimpses of Mime Jr, Lucario, Munchlax and Weavile in the movies - and now they have the chance to meet them in the game.
You can also utilise the DS's dual slots to transfer Pokemon from the GBA Pokemon games and you can link up with Pok?mon Ranger to access more special content.
I mean back in the old days it was simply a case of seeing a brand you liked, saying something like "ooh, that's cheap..." and before you knew it you were watching a brand new box in your front room.
Nowadays the choices are endless, the prices are bonkers and then you've got the whole HD era to confuse you.
I'm going through the whole process at the moment and, I must say, I've learned a lot about a whole bunch of things a month ago I never knew I was missing out on.
So in this latest blog I will try to break it down for you and help clear the mist (or is that static) of confusion.
Earlier this year I decided to upgrade (or pimp) my home sound and visual setup. Like many others I spent a fortune on buying a 60GB PS3 and, within hours of doing so, realised I needed an HD (High Definition) TV to make the best use of it.
Basically for those that have been living in a cupboard for the last year or so, we are now living in an HD world.
And for those that don't know what HD is, allow our friends at Wikipedia to explain...
"High-definition television (HDTV) is a digital television broadcasting system with a significantly higher resolution than traditional formats (NTSC, SECAM, PAL).
"While some early analog HDTV formats were broadcast in Europe and Japan, HDTV is usually broadcast digitally, because digital television (DTV) broadcasting requires much less bandwith.
"HDTV technology was first introduced in the US during the 1990s by a group of electronics companies called the Digital HDTV Grand Alliance."
Speaking in layman's terms, HDTV is the next generation of home entertainment viewing and sound. The picture quality is sharper, brighter and more defined and the sound is crystal clear.
The problem that people face when buying a new HDTV is deciding which one is better than any other.
Many people first became aware of the HD revolution when the Sony Bravia advert (remember the one with the multi-coloured balls bouncing down the street?) hit our screens.
Since then literally hundreds of television manufacturers have developed their own HD units to compete at varying prices.
Such is the competition in the market at the moment that the average price of a brand new HD TV is now around £500. That's a drop of around £500 from the original £1,000 average asking price.
While the electronic giants including Sony, Panasonic, Philips and LG have all released numerous models of all shapes and sizes, the market has allowed the lesser-known manufacturers like Technosonic and Digihome to release their own HD units at lower prices.
While many would rather trust the reputation of more well-known brands, the cheaper options are actually really quite good and well worth the money and the gamble.
However, if... like me, you feel safer in the knowledge that you have bought a brand name proven in the past then the prices are right at the moment to go for broke.
For the true tech-heads among us there are a number of product features to look at specifically when buying an HDTV.
Firstly the 'contrast ratio' is an important feature to look at.
Put simply, contrast ratio is the scale between the brightest and darkest colours that the screen can produce at the same time.
Fact: Televisions with a higher contrast ratio are considered to be better than ones with lower contrast ratios. Examples include 1,200:1 and 7,500:1 (the latter being considered better).
Secondly, it's worth looking at the 'pixel resolution'. Again, in layman's terms this refers to the number of pixels that can be displayed on the screen. The more the merrier!
Another important factor is the 'response time' for the unit. This is the amount of time taken for the screen to respond in milliseconds. The quicker the better. 8 milliseconds is a very good speed.
However it is worth remembering that manufacturers like to make things a tad difficult by making up their own features and renditions of them.
It is also worth remembering when buying an HDTV that 'HD Ready' is different to 'Full HD'.
Basically HD Ready means that it is ready to display high definition programmes/DVDs and game console graphics providing that the TV has high definition information fed to it.
The BBC and Sky are currently working on HD programmes and HD channels but they are not up to scratch yet and have not been fully launched.
Full HD means that it will feature full HD when the whole HD revolution is on line. For now, I wouldn't worry too much.
As long as you have the HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) cables essential for relaying the information you'll be fine.
So if you use this blog as your checklist, you won't go far wrong in picking a good HDTV and vastly enhancing your television experience. ===========================================================
Congratulations to Ian Smith of Whitleigh for winning a fab Nintendo DS and a copy of Touchmaster.
===========================================================
And if you were one of the unlucky ones here's another chance to win some fab goodies!
Game On has teamed up with NCsoft to offer two blog readers a copy of city of heroes city of villains on the PC, a hat, T-shirt, NCsoft mouse, figurines, a Lord
Recluse statue, posters and a bag.
One mission, Two sides, An epic tale of good versus evil, NCsoft brings to you the ninth issue of City Of Heroes City Of Villains, Breakthrough.
Become a Hero and keep it clean in Paragon City or, get your hands a little dirty in the Rogue Isles. Join forces with the villains and hit the black markets for some dodgy deals and hell raising destruction.
City of Heroes City of Villains, Breakthrough, is the ultimate and unique online game play filled with thousands of other heroes and villains worldwide.
Choose your team and create your identity as you face your arch-enemies in head to head battles of good versus evil. Customize your character and select from thousands of powers, skills and costumes, then the battle begins. Prepare to defend the world you chose to live in.
Explore the stunning scenery and skyscrapers, dirty filled sewers and dangerous backstreets if you are brave enough?
To win a goodie bag all readers have to do is answer a simple question and email me the answer - together with your address and phone number - to tnichols@eveningherald.co.uk with NCsoft competiton' written in the subject line.
Couldn't be simpler if you've read the above text!
And here's the simple question - Which edition of the game is City Of Heroes City Of Villains, Breakthrough?
a). Third?
b). Seventh? or
c). Ninth?
When emailing in an entry please, please, PLEASE also include your daytime telephone number.
Closing date for entries is Friday 20th July. Only one entry per household is permitted. The editor's decision is final, and the first correct entry chosen will win the prize as stated. No correspondence will be entered into. The Herald accepts no responsibility for any damage or injury caused by competition prizes. Any inquiries should be directed to the manufacturer or retailer. Employees of South West Media Group Ltd and their families are ineligible to enter. The promoter is NCsoft, and you are advised to retain this information.
REVIEWS:
Title: Harry Potter & The Order of the Phoenix
Platform: PS2 RRP: &dollar39.99
Hit count: 4/5
Imagine Grand Theft Auto but with wizards. Now you have some idea of how the fab new Harry Potter game works.
Anyone will tell you that games based on films don't really work. (Look at the Spiderman 3 title). But this one is different.
In Harry Potter & The Order of the Phoenix you get to explore Hogwarts and complete missions and unlock new and exciting spells.
And this time players get to control only Harry with the other two main characters acting in supporting roles.
The game is addictive with its free roam playability, and graphically it's pretty good.
Title: Pokemon Pearl
Platform: Nintendo DS RRP: &dollar29.99
Hit count: 3/5
For me, this series is what the Nintendo DS is all about. Pokemon was one of the first games I played on the console... and one of the last games on it that I loved.
You set off either as a boy or girl trainer to the Sinnoh region where two famous Pokemon live. Your objective is to befriend the two Pokemon before Team Galaxy take control of their powers.
Over the years Pokemon fans have caught glimpses of Mime Jr, Lucario, Munchlax and Weavile in the movies - and now they have the chance to meet them in the game.
You can also utilise the DS's dual slots to transfer Pokemon from the GBA Pokemon games and you can link up with Pok?mon Ranger to access more special content.
Wednesday, 27 June 2007
June 27
"Would you mind turning your bag down..." I said to a rock chick in a North Hill bar with a rather confused look on my face. I mean, it's not something you really hear yourself say too much is it? But there, on that Tuesday night last week, I found myself asking her to adjust the volume on her handbag.
Technology amazes me, like other people, at the best of times. It's cool to be surprised by the latest gadget or toy, and it's even cooler to be completely unaware that a certain gadget exists in this day and age.
In that North Hill student bar that chick was celebrating her 19th birthday and showing off her favourite present from friends.
From a distance it looked just like any other girls' accessory. But on closer inspection it was far more than a simple carrying tool.
This bag had two huge speakers underneath the flap with a connector for an iPod. The built-in amp pumped out some extreme sound.
The obvious question was 'why?' would anyone want one of those, but then I guess people like to go with the fashion flow. If you can combine something fashionable (the bag) with something cool (the iPod) then people will always buy it.
The week prior to that and I had been laying on a sun lounger on an island off the coast if Italy having one of those random discussions with a complete stranger about how technology has changed our lives.
You know, you're lying there listening to your iPod (which contains your whole music library) while taking photos on your camera phone and sending them back home for immediate viewing.
You pay for everything on your credit card - no signatures anymore, all pin codes - and you book a cab back to the airport online via email. Even on this tiny island in comparison to the world, it is as hi-tech and updated as central Europe.
Now sat up on that lounger and seriously discussing the topic, I found myself pondering what life must have been like, say 30 years ago.
I mean, when I think about it I got my first mobile phone aged around 19. Two years prior to that I had a pager, and before that I had nothing but the payphone at the bottom of our Dousland street.
At that time I also owned a tape walkman and a rather awful 'step' haircut. How times have changed.
The walkman has been replaced by the iPod mini, I have a pretty impressive Sony Ericsson phone and that horrible haircut has been banished to old pictures in a drawer somewhere best forgotten.
One thing's for sure in this new world we live in, you can't stop the juggernaut, you've just got to jump aboard for the ride.
That aside, Game On has teamed up with our friends at Indigo Pearl to offer one lucky reader the chance to win not only a copy of Touchmaster boasting 23 classic games - but also a fab Nintendo DS Lite console.
The wide variety of highly interactive mini-games that made Midway's Touchmaster a favourite in bars and arcades across the country are now available whenever, wherever with Touchmaster for Nintendo DS, exclusively for Nintendo DS.
Touchmaster is a natural fit for the touchscreen and stylus of Nintendo DS, and is perfect for a quick gameplay session.
There's something for everyone to choose from, with a wide variety of 23 of Midway's classic Touchmaster games, including Trivia, Solitaire, Gem Slide and Mah Jongg.
With the Nintendo DS WiFi connection, players can connect to the Midway Tournament Network for high score rankings, tournaments and daily rankings.
To win a Nintendo DS Lite and a copy of Touchmaster all readers have to do is answer a simple question and email me the answer - together with your address and phone number - to tnichols@eveningherald.co.uk with 'Nintendo competiton' written in the subject line.
Couldn't be simpler!
And here's the simple question - How many Midway classics are featured in Touchmaster?
a). 23?
b). 25? or
c). 30?
When emailing in an entry please, please, PLEASE also include your daytime telephone number.
Closing date for entries is Monday 9th July. Only one entry per household is permitted. The editor?s decision is final, and the first correct entry chosen will win the prize as stated. No correspondence will be entered into. The Herald accepts no responsibility for any damage or injury caused by competition prizes. Any inquiries should be directed to the manufacturer or retailer. Employees of South West Media Ltd and their families are ineligible to enter. The promoter is Indigo Pearl, and you are advised to retain this information.
REVIEWS:
Got a minute? Try your hand at one of these...
Title: Monster Madness
Platform: Xbox 360
RRP: £49.99
Hit count: 4/5
This game looks like a game that I lost many of the hours of my youth to. What the developers have done with this title is use the best of what the Xbox 360 has to crank up the graphics, create some stunning characters and locations and unveil a weird and wonderful world of fun!
The story goes that Zack, Carrie, Andy, and Jennifer were all looking forward to a party when Zack's parents left town for vacation. Unfortunately, some uninvited guests soon arrived... and the madness soon ensued.
Monster Madness is all-out action shooter with plenty of weapons to get your hands onto and plenty of hours of life to lose.
Title: Colin McRae: DIRT
Platform: Xbox 360
RRP: £49.99
Hit count: 3/5
The legend returns in a new guise. One might be excused for thinking that this is simply another racing game starring... yep, you've guessed it... Colin McRae.
However, on closer inspection the game actually boasts a far greater number of vehicles, environments and challenges than many of the other titles in the now long-running series. The intricate detail of the tracks and vehicles is impressive and you will be addicted by the third race.
While Mr McRae might well now be a well-established brand in himself and his games, it would be interesting to see how the game would stand without his name on it. Personally I prefer Motor Storm on the PS3.
Title: Everybody's Tennis
Platform: PS2
RRP: £29.99
Hit count: 2/5
Firstly it's worth stating that if you have tend to go for the whole cutesy sort of game then this game is definitely for you. Personally its mere existence makes me feel rather sick. Too many colours, too much flowery music and not enough realism.
However, if that sounds appealing then you'll love it. The gameplay is actually quite good and after a few goes you will feel like you've got the hang of it.
Technology amazes me, like other people, at the best of times. It's cool to be surprised by the latest gadget or toy, and it's even cooler to be completely unaware that a certain gadget exists in this day and age.
In that North Hill student bar that chick was celebrating her 19th birthday and showing off her favourite present from friends.
From a distance it looked just like any other girls' accessory. But on closer inspection it was far more than a simple carrying tool.
This bag had two huge speakers underneath the flap with a connector for an iPod. The built-in amp pumped out some extreme sound.
The obvious question was 'why?' would anyone want one of those, but then I guess people like to go with the fashion flow. If you can combine something fashionable (the bag) with something cool (the iPod) then people will always buy it.
The week prior to that and I had been laying on a sun lounger on an island off the coast if Italy having one of those random discussions with a complete stranger about how technology has changed our lives.
You know, you're lying there listening to your iPod (which contains your whole music library) while taking photos on your camera phone and sending them back home for immediate viewing.
You pay for everything on your credit card - no signatures anymore, all pin codes - and you book a cab back to the airport online via email. Even on this tiny island in comparison to the world, it is as hi-tech and updated as central Europe.
Now sat up on that lounger and seriously discussing the topic, I found myself pondering what life must have been like, say 30 years ago.
I mean, when I think about it I got my first mobile phone aged around 19. Two years prior to that I had a pager, and before that I had nothing but the payphone at the bottom of our Dousland street.
At that time I also owned a tape walkman and a rather awful 'step' haircut. How times have changed.
The walkman has been replaced by the iPod mini, I have a pretty impressive Sony Ericsson phone and that horrible haircut has been banished to old pictures in a drawer somewhere best forgotten.
One thing's for sure in this new world we live in, you can't stop the juggernaut, you've just got to jump aboard for the ride.
That aside, Game On has teamed up with our friends at Indigo Pearl to offer one lucky reader the chance to win not only a copy of Touchmaster boasting 23 classic games - but also a fab Nintendo DS Lite console.
The wide variety of highly interactive mini-games that made Midway's Touchmaster a favourite in bars and arcades across the country are now available whenever, wherever with Touchmaster for Nintendo DS, exclusively for Nintendo DS.
Touchmaster is a natural fit for the touchscreen and stylus of Nintendo DS, and is perfect for a quick gameplay session.
There's something for everyone to choose from, with a wide variety of 23 of Midway's classic Touchmaster games, including Trivia, Solitaire, Gem Slide and Mah Jongg.
With the Nintendo DS WiFi connection, players can connect to the Midway Tournament Network for high score rankings, tournaments and daily rankings.
To win a Nintendo DS Lite and a copy of Touchmaster all readers have to do is answer a simple question and email me the answer - together with your address and phone number - to tnichols@eveningherald.co.uk with 'Nintendo competiton' written in the subject line.
Couldn't be simpler!
And here's the simple question - How many Midway classics are featured in Touchmaster?
a). 23?
b). 25? or
c). 30?
When emailing in an entry please, please, PLEASE also include your daytime telephone number.
Closing date for entries is Monday 9th July. Only one entry per household is permitted. The editor?s decision is final, and the first correct entry chosen will win the prize as stated. No correspondence will be entered into. The Herald accepts no responsibility for any damage or injury caused by competition prizes. Any inquiries should be directed to the manufacturer or retailer. Employees of South West Media Ltd and their families are ineligible to enter. The promoter is Indigo Pearl, and you are advised to retain this information.
REVIEWS:
Got a minute? Try your hand at one of these...
Title: Monster Madness
Platform: Xbox 360
RRP: £49.99
Hit count: 4/5
This game looks like a game that I lost many of the hours of my youth to. What the developers have done with this title is use the best of what the Xbox 360 has to crank up the graphics, create some stunning characters and locations and unveil a weird and wonderful world of fun!
The story goes that Zack, Carrie, Andy, and Jennifer were all looking forward to a party when Zack's parents left town for vacation. Unfortunately, some uninvited guests soon arrived... and the madness soon ensued.
Monster Madness is all-out action shooter with plenty of weapons to get your hands onto and plenty of hours of life to lose.
Title: Colin McRae: DIRT
Platform: Xbox 360
RRP: £49.99
Hit count: 3/5
The legend returns in a new guise. One might be excused for thinking that this is simply another racing game starring... yep, you've guessed it... Colin McRae.
However, on closer inspection the game actually boasts a far greater number of vehicles, environments and challenges than many of the other titles in the now long-running series. The intricate detail of the tracks and vehicles is impressive and you will be addicted by the third race.
While Mr McRae might well now be a well-established brand in himself and his games, it would be interesting to see how the game would stand without his name on it. Personally I prefer Motor Storm on the PS3.
Title: Everybody's Tennis
Platform: PS2
RRP: £29.99
Hit count: 2/5
Firstly it's worth stating that if you have tend to go for the whole cutesy sort of game then this game is definitely for you. Personally its mere existence makes me feel rather sick. Too many colours, too much flowery music and not enough realism.
However, if that sounds appealing then you'll love it. The gameplay is actually quite good and after a few goes you will feel like you've got the hang of it.
Friday, 8 June 2007
June 8
Bored of queuing up for hours on end at a festival waiting to charge up your phone at the Nokia tent?
Well scientists might just have made a breakthrough.
Brain boxes in the UK have demonstrated a simple way to transmit electricity through the air, raising the prospect of a world of wireless gadgets.
In the experiment, researchers lit a 60-watt light bulb from an energy source 7ft away using no power leads.
The research heralds a future in which mobile phones, MP3 players, laptop computers, and other appliances can be charged up without having to plug them into a wall socket.
Some devices may even be able to operate without batteries at all.
Now I don't mean to sound so nerdy because believe me, I'm not. I just like to know that small improvements are being made to deal with life's frustrating annoyances.
Festival goers will know exactly what I mean when I mentioned the Nokia phone charging tents.
Picture the scene... you arrange to meet your mate next to the blue tent in the big green - sorry - brown, field.
You say you'll text them and then 'doo-dull-beep' (pronounced) your phone battery dies. What to do, what to do! One of the few things you can do is go to a charge tent and wait patiently while it charges up. Nightmare!
Anyways, just imagine a world with no leads to trip up on! Or indeed having a world where the likes of Nokia wouldn't be able to charge you an extortionate amount of money for a replacement charger. OR indeed being able to charge your electric toothbrush while you clean your teeth without fearing it will conk out mid-brush. (okay that last one's a slightly pants example).
Anyways... I'm off on hols for a coupla weeks. Gonna give my PS3 a damn good thrashing (does that sound wrong?!)
Got a few moments out of the office and away from the hassle? Try this little beauty:
Title: Smash Court Tennis 3
Platform: Sony PSP
RRP: £24.99
Hit count: 4/5
Game, set and match... At last, a tennis game on a handheld worth owning! Smash Tennis 3 is the Pro Evo equivalent to tennis games.
It rocks and it rolls and it provides endless hours of fun in the sun!
Armed with a variety of rackets and sportswear, you can choose from a variety of top world-ranking players as you attempt to score game, set and match against your opponents.
As you progress through the game you can also develop new swings and learn to hit harder and faster.
Well scientists might just have made a breakthrough.
Brain boxes in the UK have demonstrated a simple way to transmit electricity through the air, raising the prospect of a world of wireless gadgets.
In the experiment, researchers lit a 60-watt light bulb from an energy source 7ft away using no power leads.
The research heralds a future in which mobile phones, MP3 players, laptop computers, and other appliances can be charged up without having to plug them into a wall socket.
Some devices may even be able to operate without batteries at all.
Now I don't mean to sound so nerdy because believe me, I'm not. I just like to know that small improvements are being made to deal with life's frustrating annoyances.
Festival goers will know exactly what I mean when I mentioned the Nokia phone charging tents.
Picture the scene... you arrange to meet your mate next to the blue tent in the big green - sorry - brown, field.
You say you'll text them and then 'doo-dull-beep' (pronounced) your phone battery dies. What to do, what to do! One of the few things you can do is go to a charge tent and wait patiently while it charges up. Nightmare!
Anyways, just imagine a world with no leads to trip up on! Or indeed having a world where the likes of Nokia wouldn't be able to charge you an extortionate amount of money for a replacement charger. OR indeed being able to charge your electric toothbrush while you clean your teeth without fearing it will conk out mid-brush. (okay that last one's a slightly pants example).
Anyways... I'm off on hols for a coupla weeks. Gonna give my PS3 a damn good thrashing (does that sound wrong?!)
Got a few moments out of the office and away from the hassle? Try this little beauty:
Title: Smash Court Tennis 3
Platform: Sony PSP
RRP: £24.99
Hit count: 4/5
Game, set and match... At last, a tennis game on a handheld worth owning! Smash Tennis 3 is the Pro Evo equivalent to tennis games.
It rocks and it rolls and it provides endless hours of fun in the sun!
Armed with a variety of rackets and sportswear, you can choose from a variety of top world-ranking players as you attempt to score game, set and match against your opponents.
As you progress through the game you can also develop new swings and learn to hit harder and faster.
Thursday, 31 May 2007
May 31
It seems almost fitting that with the latest instalment of swashbuckling antics hitting our cinema screens that I write about pirates.
Now of course you're probably thinking to yourself 'what the hell does Johnny Depp have to do with a games and technology blog?'
Well, now I realise that it may be construed as a tedious link (and admittedly I dropped JD's name in there to attract the girlie readers) but I am of course referring to pirates as in piracy, as in people who copy DVDs/CDs etc.
Now I know that with this blog I am likely to come a cropper. All those people that believe that piracy actually does fund terrorism are probably going to want to torch my home for my outspoken thoughts.
Well, heck... what the hell.
Name me one home that you know that doesn't own a video or DVD recorder or a CD player? Name me one person that doesn't use that device to record from a terrestrial or satellite channel? Now name me one person who HASN'T lent a DVD/video or CD from time to time to a friend?
Surely recording for home use (which by law is allowed) and then lending it to a friend for their use (which by law isn't allowed) is a pretty pants ruling.
I mean, damn or be damned. Are we ALL pirates?
Personally (and here's the bottom line) I've got no problem with certain forms of piracy. Hell, when I was in Afghanistan last December with the city's commandos I picked up a pirated DVD copy of Casino Royale in an Afghan market for $2.
I don't care what that chap tells me every time I'm in the cinema staring up at the screen wondering when the 30 minutes of adverts are going to end.
Sorry to burst your bubble, but that pirated DVD's picture quality was awesome, the sound was perfect and, it's possibly the best $2 I have ever spent. Much better in fact than the £7 I paid for entry to Vue to see that film with annoying flickers on the screen.
If you want a definition of irony picture this. We are told that piracy funds terrorism right...? So imagine a bunch of Afghans (some of whom who might possibly have a brother whose uncle once shook a member of the Taliban's hand) selling COPIED (pirated) DVDs direct to the British/American and NATO forces in a market pitched next to their base.
Is that right? In the grand scale of things which is more wrong...? A bloke selling a couple of copied DVDs at Stonehouse Creek car boot? Or half the British forces making the most of cheap pirated DVDs sold by the nation we are supposedly at war with?
I'll leave it up to you.
Meanwhile, I have a new addition to the Nichols home... A Sony PlayStation 3. After all the umming and ahhing I gave up trying to convince myself that it was too much money to spend and went for it.
It looks bling it plays like a dream and I am - no doubt - soon to be a single man.
It's graphically awesome, the sound is great but it has one snag. It has convinced me that I need an HD TV to run it through to make the most of what it can do. Oh well, simple things they say...
Got a minute? Try your hand at one of these...
Title: SOCOM US Navy Seals: Combined Assault
Platform: Sony PS2
RRP: £29.99
Hit count: 5/5
Scoring highly on game title length alone, SOCOM US Navy Seals: Combined Assault is a bit of a beauty by all accounts.
Players can play as a single player, or one of four, in protecting America's shores from enemy attacks. Graphically the title rocks and its playability is pretty good and addictive. Best of all tho is the online co-op mode which sees you fighting alongside complete strangers. Brilliant!
Title: SOCOM US Navy Seals: Combined Assault
Platform: Sony PS2
RRP: £29.99
Hit count: 2/5
Looking like a cross between Monkey Island and Shadow Warriors, the outlook was not looking good for this title.
However, after playing it I couldn't help but feel sorry for my devastating preview and reckon it deserves at least a one-star rating.
It's actually quite fun. The graphics are okay but it is the gameplay that bumps it up. You can explore any number of locations across America, and meet any number of historic and mythical characters.
If you have got a few quid to lose and fancy something that might flutter away a few hours then try it. Expect less and enjoy a lot.
Title: Wario: Master of Disguise
Platform: Nintendo DS
RRP: £29.99
Hit count: 1/5
Wario as a thief...? Hmmm.... Personally I'm not convinced by the series' appeal. This one sees him become a thief where players have to draw exotic locations and costumes.
A tad boring methinks.
Now of course you're probably thinking to yourself 'what the hell does Johnny Depp have to do with a games and technology blog?'
Well, now I realise that it may be construed as a tedious link (and admittedly I dropped JD's name in there to attract the girlie readers) but I am of course referring to pirates as in piracy, as in people who copy DVDs/CDs etc.
Now I know that with this blog I am likely to come a cropper. All those people that believe that piracy actually does fund terrorism are probably going to want to torch my home for my outspoken thoughts.
Well, heck... what the hell.
Name me one home that you know that doesn't own a video or DVD recorder or a CD player? Name me one person that doesn't use that device to record from a terrestrial or satellite channel? Now name me one person who HASN'T lent a DVD/video or CD from time to time to a friend?
Surely recording for home use (which by law is allowed) and then lending it to a friend for their use (which by law isn't allowed) is a pretty pants ruling.
I mean, damn or be damned. Are we ALL pirates?
Personally (and here's the bottom line) I've got no problem with certain forms of piracy. Hell, when I was in Afghanistan last December with the city's commandos I picked up a pirated DVD copy of Casino Royale in an Afghan market for $2.
I don't care what that chap tells me every time I'm in the cinema staring up at the screen wondering when the 30 minutes of adverts are going to end.
Sorry to burst your bubble, but that pirated DVD's picture quality was awesome, the sound was perfect and, it's possibly the best $2 I have ever spent. Much better in fact than the £7 I paid for entry to Vue to see that film with annoying flickers on the screen.
If you want a definition of irony picture this. We are told that piracy funds terrorism right...? So imagine a bunch of Afghans (some of whom who might possibly have a brother whose uncle once shook a member of the Taliban's hand) selling COPIED (pirated) DVDs direct to the British/American and NATO forces in a market pitched next to their base.
Is that right? In the grand scale of things which is more wrong...? A bloke selling a couple of copied DVDs at Stonehouse Creek car boot? Or half the British forces making the most of cheap pirated DVDs sold by the nation we are supposedly at war with?
I'll leave it up to you.
Meanwhile, I have a new addition to the Nichols home... A Sony PlayStation 3. After all the umming and ahhing I gave up trying to convince myself that it was too much money to spend and went for it.
It looks bling it plays like a dream and I am - no doubt - soon to be a single man.
It's graphically awesome, the sound is great but it has one snag. It has convinced me that I need an HD TV to run it through to make the most of what it can do. Oh well, simple things they say...
Got a minute? Try your hand at one of these...
Title: SOCOM US Navy Seals: Combined Assault
Platform: Sony PS2
RRP: £29.99
Hit count: 5/5
Scoring highly on game title length alone, SOCOM US Navy Seals: Combined Assault is a bit of a beauty by all accounts.
Players can play as a single player, or one of four, in protecting America's shores from enemy attacks. Graphically the title rocks and its playability is pretty good and addictive. Best of all tho is the online co-op mode which sees you fighting alongside complete strangers. Brilliant!
Title: SOCOM US Navy Seals: Combined Assault
Platform: Sony PS2
RRP: £29.99
Hit count: 2/5
Looking like a cross between Monkey Island and Shadow Warriors, the outlook was not looking good for this title.
However, after playing it I couldn't help but feel sorry for my devastating preview and reckon it deserves at least a one-star rating.
It's actually quite fun. The graphics are okay but it is the gameplay that bumps it up. You can explore any number of locations across America, and meet any number of historic and mythical characters.
If you have got a few quid to lose and fancy something that might flutter away a few hours then try it. Expect less and enjoy a lot.
Title: Wario: Master of Disguise
Platform: Nintendo DS
RRP: £29.99
Hit count: 1/5
Wario as a thief...? Hmmm.... Personally I'm not convinced by the series' appeal. This one sees him become a thief where players have to draw exotic locations and costumes.
A tad boring methinks.
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