What is now called a podcast traces its orgins to the
first ipod podcasts, the creation of distributed mp3 files
that could be downloaded and played on Apple's music
player, the iPod. When the iPod came out, and users
discovered what a wonderful thing it was for holding
music, some people had the idea of loading things that
weren't necessarily songs. Some of the people that got
their hands on the iPod took the route of reverse
engineering the iPod and loading on different firmware,
or operating system, but others had the idea of sharing
small sound files that could be played on the iPod. The
technology for distributing the files already existed,
with RSS feeds. RSS feeds were a means of generating
machine readable files that could share information
between a server and a user. Many blogs already used
them to keep readers up to date with the latest posts, but
some hopeful podcasters had the idea of enclosing links
to sound files within the RSS feed and downloading the
file to the computer.
With the change in RSS feeds, ipod podcast took off,
and podcasting became a popular way to share files.
Users saw podcasting as a way to become radio hosts,
or dj's, and a variety of podcasts began popping up.
Software was written to automatically check the RSS
feeds, extract the links to the podcast episodes, and
download the files. These programs became known as
podcast clients.
By this time, podcasting had moved beyond the ipod,
and they were not simply making an ipod podcast
anymore. Some people had figured out how to use even
the PlayStation Portable gaming console as a podcast
player. It was more difficult that downloading podcasts
to the ipod, since the PSP used a different format for it's
files, but PSP podcasts began popping up. In addition,
podcasting made inroads to the wider audience of
people without iPods, who simply saw podcasting as an
extremely convenient way to receive news, music, and
entertainment over the internet.
Today, while the iPod podcast type still exists, fewer
people subscribe to podcasts as a way of gaining
portable media files they can listen to anywhere.
Although that is still an attractive part of podcasting, it
seems to be eclipsed by the ease with which podcasting
has become a content delivery system. Now, podcasting
has become tied up with the rising number of audio and
video blogs, where blogging is done not by post, but
through media files uploaded to the blog. These blogs,
and podcasting in general, take advantage of the
shrinking cost of broadband internet connections, and
the rising number of people with high speed access to
offer a picture of the internet rich with multimedia files.
By:Gracio
Jumat, 18 Desember 2009
Finding a Podcast on PSP
There are many podcasts on PSP available. Some ofthem simply share information on the PlayStation
Portable and distribute it to people interested in portable
gaming. These podcasts serve as news organizations,
sharing audio or visual files talking about the
PlayStation Portable and speculating about updates to
the PSP. The vast majority, however, take advantage of
the ability of the PlayStation Portable's ability to
download and play quality videos on the gaming screen.
Developers of the program PSP Video 9 first created a
program that could change videos from computer types
like .avi and .mpeg to the format used by the Play
Station Portable.
Once that was done, it was quickly possible to create
podcasts for the PSP. Podcasters began creating video
files, changing them to a format readable by the
PlayStation Portable, and distributing them by podast
feed. These podcast feeds are subscribed to by people
interested in the feed, who download the episodes as
they come out. After the video files are transfered to the
PlayStation Portable, they can be viewed whenever the
end user wishes, just like the other movies and
professionally done videos available for the PSP. The
PlayStation Portable has thus been changed from simply
being a portable gaming platform to a piece of full
featured media hardware capable of playing games,
storing information, and playing videos and movies,
moving toward a more complex future.
By:Gracio
Kamis, 17 Desember 2009
The 10 Best Nintendo Games You May Never Have Played… by: Joe Trinder
Nintendo has the longest history of creating quality games out of all the three current console makers. Some of the most memorable characters and franchises have been built and evolved over the last twenty years across multiple consoles, culminating in hundreds of amazing games. Though millions and millions have enjoyed popular titles such as Super Mario 64, Mario Kart and Zelda, there are some games that didn't get the recognition they deserved and sold poorly in comparison.
Here I dig out ten of these titles. While they were a critical success, they failed to get in many gamers hands deserved for one reason or another. Most of you would have played some of, if not all of these games, but there are also many people that missed out on these gems.
1. Chibi-Robo! (Gamecube/Wii)
Chibi-Robo! can easily be classed as the Gamecube's last classic, released late into the consoles life. Though it was an odd concept where you controlled a robot cleaning different rooms in a house in order to earn 'Happy Points', the game was a joy to control and offered a charming experience. Luckily those that missed it first time round on Gamecube will be able to give Chibi a second chance later this year when Nintendo re-release it on Wii with updated controls. Don't let the idea of the game put you off. Chibi-Robo! is a little gem.
2. Okami (Wii/PS2)
Perhaps the biggest injustice in the history of videogames is Okami. Originally released on PS2 where sales were hugely underwhelming, Capcom gave Okami a second chance on Wii due to fans outcries that the games paintbrush mechanics would ideally be suited to the wiimote's capabilities. They were right. The game is even better on Wii and quite frankly one of the most stylized and freshest games of the decade. The moment when you revive a blossom tree and se the landscape come to life is one of my favourite moments in gaming.
Though it is a very high accolade to compare Okami to Zelda, this should be the case as Okami holds its own next to Nintendo's masterpiece. In my opinion, this deserved to sell millions but gamers largely ignored it. If you have not played this then I urge you to try it, you will not be disappointed.
3. Sin & Punishment (N64/Wii)
This is really in this list for Europeans. The game never saw release in Europe during the N64 days and has only recently become available on the Wii Shop. No matter where you are from, this Treasure developed game is well worth hunting down if you have never played it.
There are fewer more intense and exciting games than this on N64 and on any Nintendo console for that matter! Though it hasn't aged particularly well in the looks department it is still a joy to play and one hell of a hectic shooter.
It is what Treasure do best and why I cannot wait for the Wii sequel to arrive some time this year.
4. Chrono Trigger (SNES/DS)
Many gamers reading this may be too young to remember Square's Chrono Trigger the first time round on the SNES, which is why it is in this list (also another game that never made European shores until this years DS version).
Classed by many as the best 2D RPG, Chrono Trigger is an absolute must play game if you are a fan of the genre. Even 14 years after its release the game shines with a fantastic storyline, a brilliant battle system and a beautiful soundtrack. Well worth hunting down on your DS or SNES.
5. Eternal Darkness: Sanity's Requiem (Gamecube)
Gamecube exclusive - Eternal Darkness was a gripping psychological horror game from Ubisoft. Though there have been many scarier and better looking horror games before and after this, no game has managed to quite mess with your head so much as Eternal Darkness.
The whole game from beginning to end was a hugely enjoyable experience. Few people witnessed the sanity meter in this game playing with your mind such as reversing controls, the hallucinogenic graphical effects or the game controller pretending to have been disconnected.
Seeing as the Wii plays Gamecube games, there is little excuse not play this if you haven't already. Also Ubisoft if you are reading this - can we have a sequel, please?!
6. Blast Corps (N64)
While most people were playing Goldeneye and Banjo Kazooie during Rare's N64 days, many gamers seemed to miss another of the developers treasures - Blast Corps.
Blast Corps was a clever puzzle/action hybrid game where you controlled a bulldozer. It was a far cry from Goldeneye, Jet Force Gemini, Banjo and all other Rare games but the quality and great gameplay remained. It seems quite boring on paper but clearing a path for your truck to drive through was great fun!
7. Zack & Wiki: Quest For Barbaros Treasure (Wii)
Highly rated Zack & Wiki failed to attract consumers attention and sold very poorly for such a high quality title. It is full of original uses for the Wiimote's controls and though it was released early in the consoles life-span, few games since have put the wiimote to such original use. The game itself looks good, is fun to play and is full of excellent puzzles.
Personally I think the name change to 'Zack & Wiki' put some people off but no-one should be put of trying this Capcom developed game, especially as it can be found so cheaply in bargain bins!
8. Donkey Kong: Jungle Beat (Gamecube)
This is 2D platforming at its best. Nintendo opted for the use of the bongo peripheral on the Gamecube for the controls of this game. Players needed to bang the bongos and clap to make the Donkey Kong run and jump. To anybody that has never played this, that may sound very weird and not particularly appealing but in true Nintendo style, they pulled it off in style.
Donkey Kong: Jungle beat was a joy to play, even if it did make your arms hurt1 The graphics were vibrant and gorgeous to look at and it is still one of my favourite platformers to date. For some reason the masses largely ignored the title which is a huge shame Like Chibi-Robo! Nintendo are re-releasing the title on Wii with motion controls, but how this will fair up to the original remains to be seen. If you still have your Gamecube hunt this down with the bongos as it is a classic that screams to be played. It's not the longest game in the world but the replay value of trying to beat your 'banana count' score will keep you coming back for more.
9. Beyond Good & Evil (Gamecube)
Another Ubisoft entry that was criminaly ignored by the masses and another Gamecube exclusive. Beyond Good & Evil was a good all round action adventure set in a strange world of humans, animals, robots and aliens.
The game creators invented a lovable cast and tasty looking world to explore, sewn together with a good storyline. The game also had novel features such as the lead characters ability to take photo's during her adventure. It may not sound like much but this game's total was more than the sum of its parts.
Hunt it down, it deserves your attention.
10. GTA: Chinatown Wars (DS)
This is a little borderline putting GTA: CW in this list. By any means the game has not 'flopped' and lots of handheld gamers have picked it up. However, many of the Playstation and Xbox GTA gamers seem to have shown little interest in the DS rendition as recent sales figures have shown.
GTA: CW holds its own very well with its fully-fledged 3D cousins on Xbox and Playstation. The sheer volume of content Rockstar have crammed in to the limited DS hardware is phenomenal. Nothing has been left out of Chinatown Wars. There is a full, vibrant, living city with so much to do it's mind boggling. Everything you have come to expect from the series (and more) is here in the DS version. It looks great, plays great and is currently the highest rated DS game on metacritic.
Personally I found GTA: CW much more fun than GTA IV and every bit as good as any GTA game before it. It seems many people are missing out on this gem. If you own a DS, you should own this game, simple.
By: Joe Trinder
Here I dig out ten of these titles. While they were a critical success, they failed to get in many gamers hands deserved for one reason or another. Most of you would have played some of, if not all of these games, but there are also many people that missed out on these gems.
1. Chibi-Robo! (Gamecube/Wii)
Chibi-Robo! can easily be classed as the Gamecube's last classic, released late into the consoles life. Though it was an odd concept where you controlled a robot cleaning different rooms in a house in order to earn 'Happy Points', the game was a joy to control and offered a charming experience. Luckily those that missed it first time round on Gamecube will be able to give Chibi a second chance later this year when Nintendo re-release it on Wii with updated controls. Don't let the idea of the game put you off. Chibi-Robo! is a little gem.
2. Okami (Wii/PS2)
Perhaps the biggest injustice in the history of videogames is Okami. Originally released on PS2 where sales were hugely underwhelming, Capcom gave Okami a second chance on Wii due to fans outcries that the games paintbrush mechanics would ideally be suited to the wiimote's capabilities. They were right. The game is even better on Wii and quite frankly one of the most stylized and freshest games of the decade. The moment when you revive a blossom tree and se the landscape come to life is one of my favourite moments in gaming.
Though it is a very high accolade to compare Okami to Zelda, this should be the case as Okami holds its own next to Nintendo's masterpiece. In my opinion, this deserved to sell millions but gamers largely ignored it. If you have not played this then I urge you to try it, you will not be disappointed.
3. Sin & Punishment (N64/Wii)
This is really in this list for Europeans. The game never saw release in Europe during the N64 days and has only recently become available on the Wii Shop. No matter where you are from, this Treasure developed game is well worth hunting down if you have never played it.
There are fewer more intense and exciting games than this on N64 and on any Nintendo console for that matter! Though it hasn't aged particularly well in the looks department it is still a joy to play and one hell of a hectic shooter.
It is what Treasure do best and why I cannot wait for the Wii sequel to arrive some time this year.
4. Chrono Trigger (SNES/DS)
Many gamers reading this may be too young to remember Square's Chrono Trigger the first time round on the SNES, which is why it is in this list (also another game that never made European shores until this years DS version).
Classed by many as the best 2D RPG, Chrono Trigger is an absolute must play game if you are a fan of the genre. Even 14 years after its release the game shines with a fantastic storyline, a brilliant battle system and a beautiful soundtrack. Well worth hunting down on your DS or SNES.
5. Eternal Darkness: Sanity's Requiem (Gamecube)
Gamecube exclusive - Eternal Darkness was a gripping psychological horror game from Ubisoft. Though there have been many scarier and better looking horror games before and after this, no game has managed to quite mess with your head so much as Eternal Darkness.
The whole game from beginning to end was a hugely enjoyable experience. Few people witnessed the sanity meter in this game playing with your mind such as reversing controls, the hallucinogenic graphical effects or the game controller pretending to have been disconnected.
Seeing as the Wii plays Gamecube games, there is little excuse not play this if you haven't already. Also Ubisoft if you are reading this - can we have a sequel, please?!
6. Blast Corps (N64)
While most people were playing Goldeneye and Banjo Kazooie during Rare's N64 days, many gamers seemed to miss another of the developers treasures - Blast Corps.
Blast Corps was a clever puzzle/action hybrid game where you controlled a bulldozer. It was a far cry from Goldeneye, Jet Force Gemini, Banjo and all other Rare games but the quality and great gameplay remained. It seems quite boring on paper but clearing a path for your truck to drive through was great fun!
7. Zack & Wiki: Quest For Barbaros Treasure (Wii)
Highly rated Zack & Wiki failed to attract consumers attention and sold very poorly for such a high quality title. It is full of original uses for the Wiimote's controls and though it was released early in the consoles life-span, few games since have put the wiimote to such original use. The game itself looks good, is fun to play and is full of excellent puzzles.
Personally I think the name change to 'Zack & Wiki' put some people off but no-one should be put of trying this Capcom developed game, especially as it can be found so cheaply in bargain bins!
8. Donkey Kong: Jungle Beat (Gamecube)
This is 2D platforming at its best. Nintendo opted for the use of the bongo peripheral on the Gamecube for the controls of this game. Players needed to bang the bongos and clap to make the Donkey Kong run and jump. To anybody that has never played this, that may sound very weird and not particularly appealing but in true Nintendo style, they pulled it off in style.
Donkey Kong: Jungle beat was a joy to play, even if it did make your arms hurt1 The graphics were vibrant and gorgeous to look at and it is still one of my favourite platformers to date. For some reason the masses largely ignored the title which is a huge shame Like Chibi-Robo! Nintendo are re-releasing the title on Wii with motion controls, but how this will fair up to the original remains to be seen. If you still have your Gamecube hunt this down with the bongos as it is a classic that screams to be played. It's not the longest game in the world but the replay value of trying to beat your 'banana count' score will keep you coming back for more.
9. Beyond Good & Evil (Gamecube)
Another Ubisoft entry that was criminaly ignored by the masses and another Gamecube exclusive. Beyond Good & Evil was a good all round action adventure set in a strange world of humans, animals, robots and aliens.
The game creators invented a lovable cast and tasty looking world to explore, sewn together with a good storyline. The game also had novel features such as the lead characters ability to take photo's during her adventure. It may not sound like much but this game's total was more than the sum of its parts.
Hunt it down, it deserves your attention.
10. GTA: Chinatown Wars (DS)
This is a little borderline putting GTA: CW in this list. By any means the game has not 'flopped' and lots of handheld gamers have picked it up. However, many of the Playstation and Xbox GTA gamers seem to have shown little interest in the DS rendition as recent sales figures have shown.
GTA: CW holds its own very well with its fully-fledged 3D cousins on Xbox and Playstation. The sheer volume of content Rockstar have crammed in to the limited DS hardware is phenomenal. Nothing has been left out of Chinatown Wars. There is a full, vibrant, living city with so much to do it's mind boggling. Everything you have come to expect from the series (and more) is here in the DS version. It looks great, plays great and is currently the highest rated DS game on metacritic.
Personally I found GTA: CW much more fun than GTA IV and every bit as good as any GTA game before it. It seems many people are missing out on this gem. If you own a DS, you should own this game, simple.
By: Joe Trinder
Playstation 3 Games - Offer You Massive Experience of Fun by: Jason Rolances
Playstation 3 games are existing in hundreds of different category that you can have. If you already have PS3 game consoles and you wish to buy games that will be very entertaining to play, below are some Playstation 3 games that you should consider to buy for your collection.
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
This Playstation 3 game is incredibly coveted game and collected much reputation just like the movie. The setting of this game might appear very much shadowy but actually this game is not only about doom and gloom. There are loads of remarkable moment that will amuse you. This Playstation 3 game has all the preferred characters of the books.
Army of Two
The Army of Two is the next most well-liked Playstation 3 games that produced by Electronic Arts Company. This game is incredibly suggested for gamer who love to use strategies. This game demands cooperative strategies more than anything as to be thriving coordinated teamwork is a must.
This Playstation 3 game is without doubt better than standard game based on the loads of features that existing by this game. The feature is including partner AI, which will interact, adapt, work together and learn from their human partner. There are customizable guns so that you can easily and quickly customize and improve dozens of dangerous weapons and then share them with your partner or even offline.
Army of Two Playstation 3 game is offered on online. Online Army of Two game really redefines two man online gameplay with players perfectly moving from PAI to live players since they make their way through the game.
Grand Theft Auto 4
GTA 4 or Grand Theft Auto 4 is just one more much loved Playstation 3 games that you must consider to collect. GTA 4 is such a great game that will never let you to be bored. The GTA series offers you with incredible realism that of course will bring you miraculous game to be played.
Those three games are just some examples from hundreds of different Playstation 3 games that are offered on the market. It will be a good idea if you take some time and learn about the game first before you determine to buy different Playstation 3 games to observe which game will thrill you the most.
Renting some Playstation 3 games will turn out to be a great idea as well. This mode will allow you to try them out and determine whether you like the game or not before in the end you purchasing the Playstation 3 games.
Are you still at sea of knowing more about Playstation 3 games? Just look around and click the links your best answer herein!
By: Jason Rolances
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
This Playstation 3 game is incredibly coveted game and collected much reputation just like the movie. The setting of this game might appear very much shadowy but actually this game is not only about doom and gloom. There are loads of remarkable moment that will amuse you. This Playstation 3 game has all the preferred characters of the books.
Army of Two
The Army of Two is the next most well-liked Playstation 3 games that produced by Electronic Arts Company. This game is incredibly suggested for gamer who love to use strategies. This game demands cooperative strategies more than anything as to be thriving coordinated teamwork is a must.
This Playstation 3 game is without doubt better than standard game based on the loads of features that existing by this game. The feature is including partner AI, which will interact, adapt, work together and learn from their human partner. There are customizable guns so that you can easily and quickly customize and improve dozens of dangerous weapons and then share them with your partner or even offline.
Army of Two Playstation 3 game is offered on online. Online Army of Two game really redefines two man online gameplay with players perfectly moving from PAI to live players since they make their way through the game.
Grand Theft Auto 4
GTA 4 or Grand Theft Auto 4 is just one more much loved Playstation 3 games that you must consider to collect. GTA 4 is such a great game that will never let you to be bored. The GTA series offers you with incredible realism that of course will bring you miraculous game to be played.
Those three games are just some examples from hundreds of different Playstation 3 games that are offered on the market. It will be a good idea if you take some time and learn about the game first before you determine to buy different Playstation 3 games to observe which game will thrill you the most.
Renting some Playstation 3 games will turn out to be a great idea as well. This mode will allow you to try them out and determine whether you like the game or not before in the end you purchasing the Playstation 3 games.
Are you still at sea of knowing more about Playstation 3 games? Just look around and click the links your best answer herein!
By: Jason Rolances
Take Your Pick From The Top 10 Video Games by: Roberto Sedycias
In the world of electronic media games, video games have been a great hit among the kids and the adults. In this plethora of countless games few stand out and are widely popular. What makes a game more popular than the others? There may be many reasons but the chief one being `What is the goal of the game?` the goal of the game along with other factors makes or breaks a game. The top 10 video games, all with a unique goal are discussed here. Take your pick on the basis of the activities that need to be performed.
1. Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time
The mission of `Link` is to Gather the Power of the Seven Sages and then shut Ganondorf in the Dark World Forever. This is due to the fact that Link was tricked by Ganondorf (King of Gerudo Thieves) when Link was a young boy. Ganondorf had used `Link` to access the `Sacred Realm`, and had then transformed the beautiful Hyrulean into a barren land. But Link was determined to resolve the problems that he had helped to create, so he takes the help of `Rauru` and travels around, gathering the powers of Seven Sages to accomplish his mission.
2. Tetris
The main object of the game is to manipulate the Tetrominoes (shapes formed by 4-square blocks each that fall down the playing area), by moving them either sideways or rotating them by up to 90 degree units. It is done to create a horizontal line of blocks without gaps and as soon as such a line is made, it disappears, leading to the fall of any block above the line that has got deleted.
As the game progresses, the Tetrominoes falls at a faster speed, and when all the Tetrominoes stack up and reach the top of the playing area and no more Tetrominoes are able to enter, the player is victorious! A truly interesting game that requires concentration and fast motor skills of the player!
3. Super Mario 64
In this popular game for the kids and the old, you can wander to discover the environment without time limits. These environments vary from each other and may be filled with evil creatures that will be raring to attack you or good creatures that help, inform and are ready to do any favor. You have to collect stars in each level which you gain once you finish the given task.
You may face challenges like defeating `a boss`, finding solutions to puzzles, collecting coins and racing against an opponent. You have to unlock the doors in the castle by defeating the Master Player in certain courses and get the keys to the doors. As you collect more stars, several courses of the castle will be accessible to you and you keep getting promoted to the next level.
4. Legend of Zelda: A Link to the past
Here, `Link` tries to find the villain called Ganondorf from the `Dark Tower` and seal Him in the Dark World. `Agahnim` controls the beautiful Hyrule and uses his evil powers to save Ganondorf from the Dark World. Once he succeeds in spite of all odds, the game gets over.
5. Super Metroid
This action game takes place on the planet, `Zebes`, a large world where each area is connected with the other through doors and elevators. You can control `Samus Aran` as she looks for a `Metroid` on the planet which was stolen by `Ridley` (leader of Space's evil Pirates).
You need to gather power-ups that will increase Samus's weapon-collection and also provide her with special abilities like the Space Jump that will make her travel far distances.
6. Super Mario Bros
The player needs to save `Princess Toadstool`. You can get hurt if you touch any enemy. If you fall into a pit or if the time runs out, you will loose a life and start again. You may either start afresh or at an invisible `checkpoint`. You may attack your enemies by simply jumping over them. You can kick the shells on enemies who will die. These kicked shells may bounce back off obstructions and hit you, resulting in you loosing a life. You can also kill your enemies by breaking brick boxes and throwing off the enemies standing on it. A truly fast paced game for the kids and the grownups!
7. Golden Eye 007
A game for James Bond fans. This game has several missions that were extended to make you participate in sequences which Bond did not act and even those in which Bond played a very minor role. The levels of the game are realistic in feel and in many places, there are irrelevant rooms and there are many routes. Files are there to check your progress; difficulty levels require you to complete complex objectives. After completing a mission, you can either continue or choose to play the previous level once again.
8. Final Fantasy VII
A virtual world game, this game comprises three modes: `an over world map`, `a battle screen` and `field maps`. The over world map features a lower version of the fictional world which you can navigate to go to various locations. The world map can be travelled by foot, on `chocobos`, `submarine` or `airship`. On field maps, several characters are sent across which either represent towns or forests. The battle screen is an area, like grassland or a building's interior, where you can give you commands against your enemies. This game has characters made up of polygons instead of 2D sprites.
9. Resident Evil 4
Being a combat game this game puts you in the shoes of Leon Kennedy, a United States government agent sent to find the daughter of the President, Ashley Graham. It focuses on horror, action and shootouts. It is a different level from the preceding games and it focuses on travelling and conserving weapons. You can zoom in to have an over-the-shoulder view while aiming. A laser sight adds an edge to the aim. You can aim in different directions at any time.
10. Doom
The game has the objective to simply locate the exit room which leads to next course which is marked with a sign and fight all odds on the way. Among these odds, there are toxic pits, monsters, reeling ceilings, radioactive slime and locked doors whose key card device is to be found. The levels are full of secret areas which hold power-ups to reward players. The surprise element makes the game very exciting and pulsating.
Thus take your pick from any of the 10 top video games and have an exciting gaming experience!
By: Roberto Sedycias
1. Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time
The mission of `Link` is to Gather the Power of the Seven Sages and then shut Ganondorf in the Dark World Forever. This is due to the fact that Link was tricked by Ganondorf (King of Gerudo Thieves) when Link was a young boy. Ganondorf had used `Link` to access the `Sacred Realm`, and had then transformed the beautiful Hyrulean into a barren land. But Link was determined to resolve the problems that he had helped to create, so he takes the help of `Rauru` and travels around, gathering the powers of Seven Sages to accomplish his mission.
2. Tetris
The main object of the game is to manipulate the Tetrominoes (shapes formed by 4-square blocks each that fall down the playing area), by moving them either sideways or rotating them by up to 90 degree units. It is done to create a horizontal line of blocks without gaps and as soon as such a line is made, it disappears, leading to the fall of any block above the line that has got deleted.
As the game progresses, the Tetrominoes falls at a faster speed, and when all the Tetrominoes stack up and reach the top of the playing area and no more Tetrominoes are able to enter, the player is victorious! A truly interesting game that requires concentration and fast motor skills of the player!
3. Super Mario 64
In this popular game for the kids and the old, you can wander to discover the environment without time limits. These environments vary from each other and may be filled with evil creatures that will be raring to attack you or good creatures that help, inform and are ready to do any favor. You have to collect stars in each level which you gain once you finish the given task.
You may face challenges like defeating `a boss`, finding solutions to puzzles, collecting coins and racing against an opponent. You have to unlock the doors in the castle by defeating the Master Player in certain courses and get the keys to the doors. As you collect more stars, several courses of the castle will be accessible to you and you keep getting promoted to the next level.
4. Legend of Zelda: A Link to the past
Here, `Link` tries to find the villain called Ganondorf from the `Dark Tower` and seal Him in the Dark World. `Agahnim` controls the beautiful Hyrule and uses his evil powers to save Ganondorf from the Dark World. Once he succeeds in spite of all odds, the game gets over.
5. Super Metroid
This action game takes place on the planet, `Zebes`, a large world where each area is connected with the other through doors and elevators. You can control `Samus Aran` as she looks for a `Metroid` on the planet which was stolen by `Ridley` (leader of Space's evil Pirates).
You need to gather power-ups that will increase Samus's weapon-collection and also provide her with special abilities like the Space Jump that will make her travel far distances.
6. Super Mario Bros
The player needs to save `Princess Toadstool`. You can get hurt if you touch any enemy. If you fall into a pit or if the time runs out, you will loose a life and start again. You may either start afresh or at an invisible `checkpoint`. You may attack your enemies by simply jumping over them. You can kick the shells on enemies who will die. These kicked shells may bounce back off obstructions and hit you, resulting in you loosing a life. You can also kill your enemies by breaking brick boxes and throwing off the enemies standing on it. A truly fast paced game for the kids and the grownups!
7. Golden Eye 007
A game for James Bond fans. This game has several missions that were extended to make you participate in sequences which Bond did not act and even those in which Bond played a very minor role. The levels of the game are realistic in feel and in many places, there are irrelevant rooms and there are many routes. Files are there to check your progress; difficulty levels require you to complete complex objectives. After completing a mission, you can either continue or choose to play the previous level once again.
8. Final Fantasy VII
A virtual world game, this game comprises three modes: `an over world map`, `a battle screen` and `field maps`. The over world map features a lower version of the fictional world which you can navigate to go to various locations. The world map can be travelled by foot, on `chocobos`, `submarine` or `airship`. On field maps, several characters are sent across which either represent towns or forests. The battle screen is an area, like grassland or a building's interior, where you can give you commands against your enemies. This game has characters made up of polygons instead of 2D sprites.
9. Resident Evil 4
Being a combat game this game puts you in the shoes of Leon Kennedy, a United States government agent sent to find the daughter of the President, Ashley Graham. It focuses on horror, action and shootouts. It is a different level from the preceding games and it focuses on travelling and conserving weapons. You can zoom in to have an over-the-shoulder view while aiming. A laser sight adds an edge to the aim. You can aim in different directions at any time.
10. Doom
The game has the objective to simply locate the exit room which leads to next course which is marked with a sign and fight all odds on the way. Among these odds, there are toxic pits, monsters, reeling ceilings, radioactive slime and locked doors whose key card device is to be found. The levels are full of secret areas which hold power-ups to reward players. The surprise element makes the game very exciting and pulsating.
Thus take your pick from any of the 10 top video games and have an exciting gaming experience!
By: Roberto Sedycias
3D Holographic Projection - The Future of Advertising? by: Ryan James
With many of the latest big budget cinema releases being available in 3D, and everyone talking about the 3D future of television, many eyes are starting to focus on 3D hologram projections...without the glasses!
Where does this technology originate from?
3D holographic projection technology is loosely based on an illusionary technique called “Peppers Ghost”, and was first used in Victorian theatres across London in the 1860s. Pepper's Ghost was typically used to create ghost-like figures on stage. Hidden from the audience's view, an actor dressed in a ghostly costume would stand facing an angled plate of glass. The audience would be able to see the glass, but not the actor directly. Specifically angled lighting would reflect the actor's image into the plate of glass, a transparent ghost like reflection would appear in front of the audience. Cutting or fading the lighting could also add to the ghostly effect.
How is this technology used today?
With the use of the latest HD projectors, CGI animation, specialist HD film techniques and special effects created in post production, Pepper's Ghost technology has been upgraded to the 21st century. Instead of a real object or person's reflection appearing on a plate of glass, high definition video and CGI animation is beamed directly onto a specially designed, chemically treated transparent film via a high power HD projector. Although much more expensive, this modern approach results in a much clearer, believable hologram projection.
What kind of images can be projected as holograms?
Due to the modern approach of projecting CGI animations and pre-recorded footage, almost anything is possible. The “blank canvas” approach is often adopted, creating a storyboard only limited by imagination. The storyboard can then be handed over to a CGI animation team who can make it come to life using the latest 3D software such as Maya or 3ds-Max.
Real people can be filmed giving a speech, dance or presentation for example, and then be projected as 3D holograms. Holographic special effects can be added in post production to make a life-like person beam into the room, Star Trek style, or have their product appear and spin above their head at the click of their fingers.
Who have used 3D Holographic projections and why?
In August 2009, Endemol, the producers of the famous reality TV show Big Brother, working together with activ8-3D holographic projections, beamed housemates' friends and families into the house to deliver messages of support and encouragement. The messages were pre-recoded using HD cameras and specifically angled lighting. A stage was rigged inside the Big Brother house task room, compiling of a HD projector, media player, lighting, and audio equipment. Each housemate entered the room in turn and took a seat in front of the stage. On cue, the housemate’s family member or friend was beamed into the stage before delving their message. Although the hologram displays were difficult to judge on 2D television screens, the event was hailed as a great success, evoking brilliant reactions from the housemates which made for great TV.
“Any other screen message on video isn’t a touch on that. They are in front of you – none of this flat screen or plasma screen – they are really there.” exclaimed David.
“It’s lovely. It’s like you wanna touch it. I can’t believe it. I’m shaking,” replied Lisa.
In January 2009 Coco-Cola gave a sales conference presentation in Prague for over 800 people. Senior directors of the company were beamed into the stage as 3D holograms before giving a presentation about how the Coco-Cola brand has evolved over the years. The content of the presentation was also in the form of 3D holographic projections. The centre piece was a giant 3D hologram Coco-Cola branded spinning clock, representing the progression of time. A showcase of previous Coco-Cola bottles, logos, and labels amongst other objects were also projected as 3D holograms to create Prague's first 3D holographic projection display.
What range of sizes can the holographic projections be displayed in?
This technology has been known to scale down to as small as a ten inch hologram display. The smaller range of holographic display units, ranging from ten inches to television sized monitors are predominantly used for retail, exhibitions and point of sale. Famous brand companies such as Diesel, have used this type of holographic display in their shop windows.
One of the largest holographic projections to date was in South Africa in 2007. A holographic projection screen, 12 metres wide, by 4 meters high stretched across a stage in front of 700 BMW officials, celebrating the launch of the latest X6 model. By increasing the size of the stage and number of projectors, there is no limit to the maximum size of the holographic projection displays.
Which other technologies are being used together with 3D hologram projections?
activ8-3D, the London based holographic projection specialists, have recently developed motion capture systems to couple 3D holographic projections. Motion capture systems are far from a new technology. An actor wearing a motion capture suit can have his/her movements picked up via various sensors. These movements can then be played back in real time onto a screen in the form of an animated character. Working with hologram display technology, these characters can become life size 3D holographic animated characters, both technologies working together perfectly to complement each other.
Hologram projection displays have also recently seen advances in audience interactivity. Using a wireless remote control, the holographic projections can be moved around the stage, rotated on their x and y axis, and can even be programmed to start or stop an animation on the click of a button.
What is the future of 3D holographic projection?
3D holographic projection technology clearly has a big future ahead. As this audio visual display continues to get high profile credibility, we are likely to see more companies advertising their products or marketing their business in this way. Whether it be large scale, big budget product launches or smaller retail POS systems, they are likely to become a common feature in the advertising world.
Where can I see an example of this technology?
A 3D holographic projection demonstration can be seen at The Movieum of London Museum, located in Westminster, England. The company behind it, activ8-3D holographic projections, are showcasing their large scale show and event holographic display, their medium and small size exhibition and retail hologram displays, as well as motion capture and interactive systems. For a free demonstration visit their website http://www.activ8-3d.co.uk or send an email to info@activ8-3d.com
By: Ryan James
Where does this technology originate from?
3D holographic projection technology is loosely based on an illusionary technique called “Peppers Ghost”, and was first used in Victorian theatres across London in the 1860s. Pepper's Ghost was typically used to create ghost-like figures on stage. Hidden from the audience's view, an actor dressed in a ghostly costume would stand facing an angled plate of glass. The audience would be able to see the glass, but not the actor directly. Specifically angled lighting would reflect the actor's image into the plate of glass, a transparent ghost like reflection would appear in front of the audience. Cutting or fading the lighting could also add to the ghostly effect.
How is this technology used today?
With the use of the latest HD projectors, CGI animation, specialist HD film techniques and special effects created in post production, Pepper's Ghost technology has been upgraded to the 21st century. Instead of a real object or person's reflection appearing on a plate of glass, high definition video and CGI animation is beamed directly onto a specially designed, chemically treated transparent film via a high power HD projector. Although much more expensive, this modern approach results in a much clearer, believable hologram projection.
What kind of images can be projected as holograms?
Due to the modern approach of projecting CGI animations and pre-recorded footage, almost anything is possible. The “blank canvas” approach is often adopted, creating a storyboard only limited by imagination. The storyboard can then be handed over to a CGI animation team who can make it come to life using the latest 3D software such as Maya or 3ds-Max.
Real people can be filmed giving a speech, dance or presentation for example, and then be projected as 3D holograms. Holographic special effects can be added in post production to make a life-like person beam into the room, Star Trek style, or have their product appear and spin above their head at the click of their fingers.
Who have used 3D Holographic projections and why?
In August 2009, Endemol, the producers of the famous reality TV show Big Brother, working together with activ8-3D holographic projections, beamed housemates' friends and families into the house to deliver messages of support and encouragement. The messages were pre-recoded using HD cameras and specifically angled lighting. A stage was rigged inside the Big Brother house task room, compiling of a HD projector, media player, lighting, and audio equipment. Each housemate entered the room in turn and took a seat in front of the stage. On cue, the housemate’s family member or friend was beamed into the stage before delving their message. Although the hologram displays were difficult to judge on 2D television screens, the event was hailed as a great success, evoking brilliant reactions from the housemates which made for great TV.
“Any other screen message on video isn’t a touch on that. They are in front of you – none of this flat screen or plasma screen – they are really there.” exclaimed David.
“It’s lovely. It’s like you wanna touch it. I can’t believe it. I’m shaking,” replied Lisa.
In January 2009 Coco-Cola gave a sales conference presentation in Prague for over 800 people. Senior directors of the company were beamed into the stage as 3D holograms before giving a presentation about how the Coco-Cola brand has evolved over the years. The content of the presentation was also in the form of 3D holographic projections. The centre piece was a giant 3D hologram Coco-Cola branded spinning clock, representing the progression of time. A showcase of previous Coco-Cola bottles, logos, and labels amongst other objects were also projected as 3D holograms to create Prague's first 3D holographic projection display.
What range of sizes can the holographic projections be displayed in?
This technology has been known to scale down to as small as a ten inch hologram display. The smaller range of holographic display units, ranging from ten inches to television sized monitors are predominantly used for retail, exhibitions and point of sale. Famous brand companies such as Diesel, have used this type of holographic display in their shop windows.
One of the largest holographic projections to date was in South Africa in 2007. A holographic projection screen, 12 metres wide, by 4 meters high stretched across a stage in front of 700 BMW officials, celebrating the launch of the latest X6 model. By increasing the size of the stage and number of projectors, there is no limit to the maximum size of the holographic projection displays.
Which other technologies are being used together with 3D hologram projections?
activ8-3D, the London based holographic projection specialists, have recently developed motion capture systems to couple 3D holographic projections. Motion capture systems are far from a new technology. An actor wearing a motion capture suit can have his/her movements picked up via various sensors. These movements can then be played back in real time onto a screen in the form of an animated character. Working with hologram display technology, these characters can become life size 3D holographic animated characters, both technologies working together perfectly to complement each other.
Hologram projection displays have also recently seen advances in audience interactivity. Using a wireless remote control, the holographic projections can be moved around the stage, rotated on their x and y axis, and can even be programmed to start or stop an animation on the click of a button.
What is the future of 3D holographic projection?
3D holographic projection technology clearly has a big future ahead. As this audio visual display continues to get high profile credibility, we are likely to see more companies advertising their products or marketing their business in this way. Whether it be large scale, big budget product launches or smaller retail POS systems, they are likely to become a common feature in the advertising world.
Where can I see an example of this technology?
A 3D holographic projection demonstration can be seen at The Movieum of London Museum, located in Westminster, England. The company behind it, activ8-3D holographic projections, are showcasing their large scale show and event holographic display, their medium and small size exhibition and retail hologram displays, as well as motion capture and interactive systems. For a free demonstration visit their website http://www.activ8-3d.co.uk or send an email to info@activ8-3d.com
By: Ryan James
Four Ways an iPhone Can Make Your Life Easier by: Greg Leighton
Once you get past all the hype, the Apple iPhone really is a remarkable piece of modern technology. Maybe you've resisted getting one because it seems to be a fad, or you're under the impression that most people who have an iPhone only bought it to be trendy or look cool. While that may be the case for some people, other iPhone owners will tell you that having the device contributes a lot more to their productivity than a regular cell phone [http://goingcellular.com/]. Aside from being able to send and receive e-mail, stay in touch with clients, and network, an iPhone can actually make your life a little easier.
Save Money - Newspaper coupons have been around for ages. Some people spend hours clipping and organizing them, and then planning their grocery shopping around them to get the best deals. Then came online coupons, which made things a little easier.
Now there are coupons for your cell phone. In particular, there are a couple of iPhone apps that are intended to help you find local deals not just at the grocery store, but at department stores, and home improvement warehouses. One of the most popular coupon apps is Cellfire [http://www.cellfire.com/], but also give Yowza!! a try.
Get Where You're Going - How many times have you traveled to a new city, either for work or pleasure, and spent much of your time there finding your way around? Just locating a place to eat can be time consuming and stressful when your time is limited, and you're hungry. And walking around a city with your nose in a map just screams tourist and makes you a target for thieves. Enter the iPhone, and apps like Lonely Planet Travel Guides.
Lonely Planet [http://www.lonelyplanet.com/] is well known for its thorough and informative travel books. Now they've taken their travel experience and knowledge, and put it into an iPhone app. Find things to do and see, and great places to eat with just a few taps on the touchscreen. This app currently includes information for 34 cities, with more additions planned.
Find a Movie and Buy Tickets - Remember when, in order to find out what movies were playing and at what times, you had to buy a newspaper? Then Moviefone came along, which you could call and a recording would tell you what was playing at your local theater, and at what time. It was a little more convenient, but still cumbersome, having to wait for the recorded, mechanical voice to get through all the listings you were interested in.
Now, all you have to do is power up your iPhone, and download the Flixster app. It lists theaters that are close to your location, and you can select the ones you frequent as favorites so they're always at the top of the list. Then you can see what movies are playing at the theater you select, and at what time. In fact, you can get movie listings and showtimes up to a week in advance. You can also get information about the movies, see and leave reviews, and watch trailers.
The best part is, you can do all this when you spontaneously decide to go see a movie while you're at the mall, and you don't have to buy a newspaper or listen to a robot voice to decide what to see. Even better, download the Fandango app [http://www.fandango.com/], and you can buy tickets right from your phone and not have to stand in line at the box office.
Pay Your Wireless Bill - It happens to everyone. You go on vacation, or you're visiting family without access to a computer, and your cell phone bill is due. If you don't pay it promptly, your service will be interrupted, causing even more of an inconvenience. What to do?
Well, you could call your wireless provider and pay over the phone, sure. Or, if you have an iPhone, which means you have service with AT&T [http://goingcellular.com/reviews/att.html], you can use the myWireless app to pay your bill directly from your phone. No need to call, wait on hold, and have a discussion with anyone. With this app, you can pay your bill in less than a minute, and not have to worry about being without service because of a forgotten payment.
Save Money - Newspaper coupons have been around for ages. Some people spend hours clipping and organizing them, and then planning their grocery shopping around them to get the best deals. Then came online coupons, which made things a little easier.
Now there are coupons for your cell phone. In particular, there are a couple of iPhone apps that are intended to help you find local deals not just at the grocery store, but at department stores, and home improvement warehouses. One of the most popular coupon apps is Cellfire [http://www.cellfire.com/], but also give Yowza!! a try.
Get Where You're Going - How many times have you traveled to a new city, either for work or pleasure, and spent much of your time there finding your way around? Just locating a place to eat can be time consuming and stressful when your time is limited, and you're hungry. And walking around a city with your nose in a map just screams tourist and makes you a target for thieves. Enter the iPhone, and apps like Lonely Planet Travel Guides.
Lonely Planet [http://www.lonelyplanet.com/] is well known for its thorough and informative travel books. Now they've taken their travel experience and knowledge, and put it into an iPhone app. Find things to do and see, and great places to eat with just a few taps on the touchscreen. This app currently includes information for 34 cities, with more additions planned.
Find a Movie and Buy Tickets - Remember when, in order to find out what movies were playing and at what times, you had to buy a newspaper? Then Moviefone came along, which you could call and a recording would tell you what was playing at your local theater, and at what time. It was a little more convenient, but still cumbersome, having to wait for the recorded, mechanical voice to get through all the listings you were interested in.
Now, all you have to do is power up your iPhone, and download the Flixster app. It lists theaters that are close to your location, and you can select the ones you frequent as favorites so they're always at the top of the list. Then you can see what movies are playing at the theater you select, and at what time. In fact, you can get movie listings and showtimes up to a week in advance. You can also get information about the movies, see and leave reviews, and watch trailers.
The best part is, you can do all this when you spontaneously decide to go see a movie while you're at the mall, and you don't have to buy a newspaper or listen to a robot voice to decide what to see. Even better, download the Fandango app [http://www.fandango.com/], and you can buy tickets right from your phone and not have to stand in line at the box office.
Pay Your Wireless Bill - It happens to everyone. You go on vacation, or you're visiting family without access to a computer, and your cell phone bill is due. If you don't pay it promptly, your service will be interrupted, causing even more of an inconvenience. What to do?
Well, you could call your wireless provider and pay over the phone, sure. Or, if you have an iPhone, which means you have service with AT&T [http://goingcellular.com/reviews/att.html], you can use the myWireless app to pay your bill directly from your phone. No need to call, wait on hold, and have a discussion with anyone. With this app, you can pay your bill in less than a minute, and not have to worry about being without service because of a forgotten payment.
About The Author
Greg Leighton is a freelance tech-writer and is a frequent contributor to Going Cellular, a consumer site devoted to covering news and reviews on cell phone providers [http://goingcellular.com/reviews/], the cellular industry and more at http://goingcellular.com/
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