Games N Gadgets

Is an Apple tablet in our near future?

2009-12-04T09:49:00.000-05:00

Rumors are flying that publishers are getting products ready to launch with an Apple tablet computer. Apple has been mostly mum about plans for a tablet computer, something smaller than a laptop that could be used to read books, newspapers, play games and surf the Web.

This week, Sports Illustrated released a video showing how the magazine might be read on a product like a tablet. It looks interesting. Advertisements are much more than pictures. Readers can click them and see live video. You can easily toggle pictures, even send them to friends via Facebook or e-mail. You can read articles and all content is in full-color.

It's like reading the magazine without having the paper (but also having it come alive when you want it to).

Here's the sample video.

NBA2K10 bests Live as best basketball sim

2009-11-28T22:12:00.000-05:00

It’s basketball season, and of course that means new NBA games from EA Sports and 2K Sports. And it’s nice to have a little competition in hoops.

EA Sports bought an exclusive license from the NFL, essentially kicking 2K out of the video football wars.

In the basketball world, however, the companies are doing major battle.
EA Sports’ new NBA Live 10 (2.5 stars out of 4) looks better than ever. Much more than even EA’s Madden, this truly looks like a television broadcast.

The players’ models are true to size, and the game plays more realistically. In recent years, EA has been more like the old American Basketball Association (the league with the tri-colored balls): there was no defense.

Live was all about running and dunking and scoring. It was not a true simulation of the NBA. It was fun, but if you wanted true NBA style play, you had to look elsewhere.

This year, defenses are ramped up. Defenses help more and slap the ball away. If you ball hog, you’re in trouble. Shooting, though, is about a one button press – thank you.

My biggest issue was that players didn’t always act the way you’d expect: multiple players running out of bounds for no reason, something that seemed to happen frequently on inbounds passes.

EA has smartly brought back the Dynamic DNA mode that allows you to play the current NBA season with current stats. It allows you to control your own version of the current season.

So while NBA Live has made some improvements, it’s still a distant second to NBA 2K10 (3.5 stars out of 4) in about everything but looks.

The 2K guys just really seem to get sports games. 2K10 just feels, looks and plays like real basketball. Take the turbo boost button. You used to be able to press it and make your player move faster up and down the court. Now, you can still press it, but using it often will tire your player. To show how much, 2K adds a stamina bar.

If you use too much energy too quickly, you’ll have to rest that player longer than you’d hoped.

And of course, you want your star at full strength in the fourth quarter.
The NBA Today feature, similar to Dynamic DNA on Live, brings live results and matchup from the NBA to your video game world. Game stats match up with real-life stats (so long as you use Xbox Live). This, combined with “Living Rosters,” basically updates based on real-time trades and moves, and keeps your game fresh. This feature is presented by an ESPN-like NBA Insider who gives video blogs.

The My Player Mode allows you to create a player, train him and bring him up through the ranks, even potentially adding him to your team.

Ultimately, though, what is amazing about 2K10 is how real it seems. I have read about some folks having frame rate issues with the game. I did not experience that on the Xbox 360 version.

The facial expressions seem like the real thing (Kobe will jut his lower jaw out and grit his teeth in a big moment). The commentary from Kevin Harlan and Clark Kellogg and Reggie Miller seems endless and I love how when you’re on the road and doing well, you can silence the home crowd.

This is one of the best sports games of the year.

Langston Wertz Jr: 704-358-5133; lwertz@charlotteobserver.com; twitter.com/langstonwertzjr; facebook.com/langstonwertzjr;

Verizon CEO: iPhone on Verizon up to Apple

2009-10-26T18:03:00.003-04:00

Verizon CEO Ivan Seidenberg said Monday that bringing the iPhone to Verizon is up to Apple.

Seidenberg's disclosure came as Verizon has launched several new ads designed at touting its network's superiority to AT&T, which currently carries the iPhone exclusively. Verizon has also launched a series of ads that present its upcoming Droid phone as an iPhone killer, leading to speculation that Apple has no plans to partner with Verizon.

"This is a decision that is exclusively in Apple's court," Seidenberg said. "Obviously we would be interested if they thought it would make sense for them to have us as a partner. And so we will leave it with them on that score. We want to broaden the base of choice for customers, and hopefully along the way, Apple, as well as others, will decide to jump on the bandwagon."

New Windows 7: Fast, stable; not Vista

2009-10-22T10:17:00.000-04:00

Today, Microsoft debuts Windows 7 after spending the past few years trying to clean up the mess it made with Vista.

The new operating system, out of the box, is pretty good. But after months of online upgrades, Vista is pretty stable now - stable enough that I'm not sure Windows 7 - while significantly faster at most tasks - is going to be a huge leap for the average Vista user. Microsoft may also be making an upgrade confusing for consumers by offering four versions of the product, ranging from $119.99 to $219.99.

I installed Windows 7 on a low-end laptop, an older Dell desktop and a cheap tower I once bought my Mom for Christmas. The operating system ran pretty flawlessly on each one. Here's some of what I noticed:

Windows 7 is not as space- or memory-hungry as Vista. Games look great and play fast on the new system, especially the 64-bit version.

7 looks really good. You can personalize your desktop with screen packages that toggle pictures. 7 is not full of the pop-up alert that makes Vista a little annoying. Parental controls allow you to limit times the kids can use the computer or limit game use by rating.

Updating is going to take awhile. Expect a few hours to get the software running, then many more to get everything up-to-date. You can upgrade from Vista, but XP users will have to do a clean install and wipe their machine. Microsoft has created a pretty easy transfer system to keep old files safe, but you'll likely need a portable hard drive, and this might be a little much for novice users to attempt.

7 ports over Microsoft's neat DVD maker from Vista. It's good enough to prevent many users from needing to buy third-party software.

You can easily launch or view which apps are running, because representative icons now appear at the bottom of the screen (rather Mac-like). If you move your mouse over them, you can get a preview window.

Windows 7 has an XP mode (in Professional or Ultimate versions), which allows you to run XP in an application window. So if you have a favorite program that won't run in 7, you can run it in XP.

Networking is painless and simple. Using a Windows Live ID, you can easily stream content over the Internet to other Windows 7 PCs in your network. Search is super fast.

I think this time around Microsoft has things right. This OS still doesn't beat Apple's version, but it's the best Windows I've tried. It seems more stable and secure than previous versions.

Apple releases new iMac, mouse and notebook, ahead of Windows 7

2009-10-20T17:08:00.000-04:00

Two days before Microsoft unveils its new Windows 7 operating system, Apple released a slew of new products: a new line of iMacs, a new line of Macbook laptops and a new wireless mouse.

The new iMac, an all-in-one desktop unit, has a 21.5-inch or 27-inch LED-backlit display. The widescreen monitors are capable of displaying HD video. The new iMacs feature faster processors that are up to twice as fast as previous generation iMacs. A new feature, called Turbo Boost, can shut off applications that are not using system resources and give that power to applications that are in use.

Base iMacs start from $1,199 to $1,999. A 21.5-inch version with 4 gigs of memory and a 1 terabyte hard drive is $1,499.

The new wireless mouse uses Apple's Multi-Touch technology, currently seen in iPods and iPhones. It allows customers to use finger gestures over the face of the mouse instead of using scroll wheels or balls. The new mouse comes standard with new iMacs or as an accessory for $69.

The new Macbook features a battery that lasts up to seven hours. The new model is 1.08 inches and now lighter at 4.7 bounds. The new unit has a 13-inch backlit widescreen display. The new laptop starts at $999 with a 2.26 gigahertz processor, 2 gigs of memory and a 250-gigabyte hard drive.

Channel Freddie Mercury in 'Singstar Queen'

2009-10-10T13:24:00.001-04:00

SingStar Queen
PlayStation 3, $39.99
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The latest karaoke-inspired party game is one “American Idol” runner-up Adam Lambert would love.
Up to eight players can sing along with 25 Queen songs, including the beloved “Bohemian Rhapsody,” “We Will Rock You” and “Somebody to Love.” More tracks are available via paid downloads.
The better you sing, the more points you amass. And you don’t have to sing in Freddie Mercury’s ridiculous vocal register – you can drop down a few octaves, where real people live, without being penalized. There are multiple game modes, including “Battle” and “Pass the Mic,” and if you really want to laugh, you can listen to the songs as you sangsung them.
This was, um, a little humbling for me.
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Disney Sing It: Pop Hits
PlayStation and Wii consoles, $39.99
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One thing about all these “Rock Band”-type games: They usually stick with a specific musical genre. So it’s nice to see one that delivers songs from popular artists like Taylor Swift, Miley Cyrus and Hannah Montana.
Players sing solo, in groups, or compete head-to-head. Like with “SingStar,” you can record and play back your performances. Disney Channel star Tiffany Thornton teaches breathing techniques and how to stay on pitch.
Rating: 3 out of 4 stars (Rated E for everyone)
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Baseball Blast!
Wii, $19.99
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2K Sports delivers another one of those simple-to-play games for the Wii that will bring hours of fun. The game features actual Major League teams and players in more than 20 mini-games like “Power Pitcher,” in which you rear back with your Wii-mote and try to bring the heat, and “Pennant Race” (my favorite), where you try to navigate a would-be homer out of the park in a Pac Man-like fashion.
Radio Hall of Famer Bob Uecker and former big leaguer Rob Dibble call the action. There’s also a pretty tough trivia mode.

Most popular videogame list for week of Oct. 5

2009-10-06T11:06:00.002-04:00

Gotten emails recently from readers who wanted to know which games were most popular. Weekly, GameFly.com -- think of its as the Blockbuster or Netflix of online game renting -- puts out lists of popular choices from its rental fleet of more than 7,000 titles.

Here is this week's list:

Most Popular Games Cross-Platform:

1 Halo 3: ODSTXbox 360ShooterMicrosoft
2 Uncharted 2: Among ThievesPS3Action AdventureSony Computer Entertainment
3 Brutal LegendPS3, Xbox 360Action AdventureElectronic Arts
4 Need for Speed: ShiftPS3, Xbox 360, PSP GamesRacingElectronic Arts
5 BorderlandsPS3, Xbox 360ShooterTake Two
6 WetPS3, Xbox 360Action AdventureBethesda
7 Marvel: Ultimate Alliance 2PS3, Xbox 360, Wii, DS, PSP Games, PS2RPGActivision
8 Batman: Arkham AsylumPS3, Xbox 360Action AdventureEidos
9 Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2PS3Action AdventureTecmo
10 Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2PS3, Xbox 360ShooterActivision

Xbox 360 Most Popular Games:

1 Halo 3: ODSTShooterMicrosoft
2 Brutal LegendAction AdventureElectronic Arts
3 Need for Speed: ShiftRacingElectronic Arts
4 BorderlandsShooterTake Two
5 WetAction AdventureBethesda
6 Marvel: Ultimate Alliance 2RPGActivision
7 Batman: Arkham AsylumAction AdventureEidos
8 Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2ShooterActivision
9 Left 4 Dead 2ShooterElectronic Arts
10 Operation Flashpoint: Dragon RisingShooterCodemasters

PlayStation 3 Most Popular Games:

1 Uncharted 2: Among ThievesAction AdventureSony Computer Entertainment
2 Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2Action AdventureTecmo
3 Need for Speed: ShiftRacingElectronic Arts
4 BorderlandsShooterTake Two
5 Batman: Arkham AsylumAction AdventureEidos
6 Demon's SoulsRPGAtlus
7 WetAction AdventureBethesda
8 Brutal LegendAction AdventureElectronic Arts
9 Marvel: Ultimate Alliance 2RPGActivision
10 Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2ShooterActivision

Nintendo Wii Most Popular Games:

1 Dead Space ExtractionShooterElectronic Arts
2 New Super Mario Bros. WiiAction AdventureNintendo
3 Wii Sports ResortSportsNintendo
4 Mario & Sonic at the Winter Olympic GamesSportsSega
5 MySims AgentsAction AdventureElectronic Arts
6 Family Feud 2010 EditionKids/FamilyUbisoft
7 Wii Fit PlusStrategy/SimNintendo
8 A Boy and His BlobAction AdventureMajesco
9 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Smash-UpAction AdventureUbisoft
10 Punch-Out!!FightingNintendo

PlayStation 2 Most Popular Games:

1 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Smash-UpFightingUbisoft
2 Marvel: Ultimate Alliance 2RPGActivision
3 Kingdom Hearts: Re-Chain of MemoriesRPGSquare Enix
4 Madden NFL 10SportsElectronic Arts
5 Kingdom Hearts IIRPGSquare Enix
6 Scooby-Doo! First FrightsKids/FamilyWB Games
7 WWE Smackdown vs. Raw 2010FightingTHQ
8 God of War IIAction AdventureSony Computer Entertainment
9 Kingdom HeartsRPGSquare Enix
10 Guitar Hero 5Arcade/PuzzleActivision

Nintendo DS Most Popular Games:

1 Kingdom Hearts 358/2 DaysRPGSquare Enix
2 Mario & Luigi: Bowser's Inside StoryAction AdventureNintendo
3 ScribblenautsArcade/PuzzleWB Games
4 Professor Layton & the Diabolical BoxAction AdventureNintendo
5 MySims AgentsAction AdventureElectronic Arts
6 Battle of Giants - DragonsAction AdventureUbisoft
7 Pokemon Mystery Dungeon: Explorers of SkyStrategy/SimNintendo
8 The Wizard of Oz: Beyond the Yellow Brick RoadRPGXseed Games
9 Where's Waldo: The Fantastic JourneyKids/FamilyUbisoft
10 Mario & Luigi: Partners in TimeRPGNintendo

PlayStation Portable Most Popular Games:

1 Gran TurismoRacingSony Computer Entertainment
2 Dissidia: Final FantasyRPGSquare Enix
3 Grand Theft Auto: Chinatown WarsAction AdventureTake Two
4 Soulcalibur: Broken DestinyFightingNamco
5 Assassin's Creed: BloodlinesAction AdventureUbisoft
6 PersonaRPGAtlus
7 Undead KnightsAction AdventureTecmo
8 Need for Speed: ShiftRacingElectronic Arts
9 Naruto Shippuden: Legends: Akatsuki RisingFightingNamco
10 MotorStorm Arctic EdgeRacingSony Computer Entertainment

Xbox Most Popular Games:

1 Star Wars Knights of the Old Republic II: The Sith LordsRPGLucasArts
2 Halo 2ShooterMicrosoft
3 Star Wars: Knights of the Old RepublicAction AdventureLucasArts
4 HaloShooterMicrosoft
5 Star Wars: Republic CommandoShooterLucasArts
6 Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas - 2nd EditionAction AdventureTake Two
7 Star Wars Jedi Knight: Jedi AcademyAction AdventureLucasArts
8 Star Wars: Battlefront IIAction AdventureLucasArts
9 FableRPGMicrosoft
10 Family Guy - Video Game!Action AdventureTake Two

GameCube Most Popular Games:

1 Super Mario SunshineAction AdventureNintendo
2 Mario Kart: Double DashRacingNintendo
3 Luigi's MansionAction AdventureNintendo
4 Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of TimeRPGNintendo
5 The Legend of Zelda: Twilight PrincessAction AdventureNintendo
6 Mario Party 7Kids/FamilyNintendo
7 Legend of Zelda: The Wind WakerAction AdventureNintendo
8 Legend of Zelda: Collector's EditionRPGNintendo
9 Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year DoorAction AdventureNintendo
10 Pokemon XD: Gale of DarknessAction AdventureNintendo

Game Boy Advance Most Popular Games:

1 Kingdom Hearts: Chain of MemoriesRPGSquare Enix
2 Pokemon Fire RedStrategy/SimNintendo
3 Pokemon EmeraldAction AdventureNintendo
4 Super Mario Advance 4Action AdventureNintendo
5 Final Fantasy VI AdvanceRPGNintendo
6 Pokemon: SapphireRPGNintendo
7 Pokemon Leaf GreenStrategy/SimNintendo
8 Legend of Zelda: Minish CapRPGNintendo
9 Pokemon: RubyRPGNintendo
10 Yoshi's Island: Super Mario Advance 3Action AdventureNintendo

Most Popular "E" Rated Games - Cross-Platform:

1 Need for Speed: ShiftPS3, Xbox 360, PSP GamesRacingElectronic Arts
2 NBA 2K10PS3, Xbox 360, Wii, PSP Games, PS2SportsTake Two
3 Madden NFL 10PS3, Xbox 360, Wii, PSP Games, PS2SportsElectronic Arts
4 Forza Motorsport 3Xbox 360RacingMicrosoft
5 NBA Live 10PS3, Xbox 360, PSP GamesSportsElectronic Arts
6 Kingdom Hearts 358/2 DaysDSRPGSquare Enix
7 New Super Mario Bros. WiiWiiAction AdventureNintendo
8 NHL 10PS3, Xbox 360SportsElectronic Arts
9 Wii Sports ResortWiiSportsNintendo
10 Mario & Sonic at the Winter Olympic GamesWii, DSSportsSega

Xbox 360 - Most Popular "E" Rated Games:

1 Need for Speed: ShiftRacingElectronic Arts
2 NBA 2K10SportsTake Two
3 Madden NFL 10SportsElectronic Arts
4 Forza Motorsport 3RacingMicrosoft
5 NBA Live 10SportsElectronic Arts
6 NHL 10SportsElectronic Arts
7 Mini NinjasAction AdventureEidos
8 FIFA Soccer 10SportsElectronic Arts
9 NCAA Football 10SportsElectronic Arts
10 Cloudy with a Chance of MeatballsKids/FamilyUbisoft

PlayStation 3 - Most Popular "E" Rated Games:

1 Need for Speed: ShiftRacingElectronic Arts
2 Ratchet & Clank Future: A Crack in TimeAction AdventureSony Computer Entertainment
3 NBA 2K10SportsTake Two
4 Madden NFL 10SportsElectronic Arts
5 NBA Live 10SportsElectronic Arts
6 Little Big PlanetAction AdventureSony Computer Entertainment
7 NHL 10SportsElectronic Arts
8 FIFA Soccer 10SportsElectronic Arts
9 Mini NinjasAction AdventureEidos
10 Katamari ForeverArcade/PuzzleNamco

Nintendo Wii - Most Popular "E" Rated Games:

1 New Super Mario Bros. WiiAction AdventureNintendo
2 Wii Sports ResortSportsNintendo
3 Mario & Sonic at the Winter Olympic GamesSportsSega
4 MySims AgentsAction AdventureElectronic Arts
5 Family Feud 2010 EditionKids/FamilyUbisoft
6 Wii Fit PlusStrategy/SimNintendo
7 A Boy and His BlobAction AdventureMajesco
8 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Smash-UpAction AdventureUbisoft
9 Punch-Out!!FightingNintendo
10 Toy Story Mania!Kids/FamilyDisney Interactive

PlayStation 2 - Most Popular "E" Rated Games:

1 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Smash-UpFightingUbisoft
2 Kingdom Hearts: Re-Chain of MemoriesRPGSquare Enix
3 Madden NFL 10SportsElectronic Arts
4 Kingdom Hearts IIRPGSquare Enix
5 Scooby-Doo! First FrightsKids/FamilyWB Games
6 Kingdom HeartsRPGSquare Enix
7 NCAA Football 10SportsElectronic Arts
8 NBA 2K10SportsTake Two
9 Marvel Super Hero SquadAction AdventureTHQ
10 BakuganAction AdventureActivision

Nintendo DS - Most Popular "E" Rated Games:

1 Kingdom Hearts 358/2 DaysRPGSquare Enix
2 Mario & Luigi: Bowser's Inside StoryAction AdventureNintendo
3 ScribblenautsArcade/PuzzleWB Games
4 Professor Layton & the Diabolical BoxAction AdventureNintendo
5 MySims AgentsAction AdventureElectronic Arts
6 Battle of Giants - DragonsAction AdventureUbisoft
7 Pokemon Mystery Dungeon: Explorers of SkyStrategy/SimNintendo
8 The Wizard of Oz: Beyond the Yellow Brick RoadRPGXseed Games
9 Where's Waldo: The Fantastic JourneyKids/FamilyUbisoft
10 Mario & Luigi: Partners in TimeRPGNintendo

PlayStation Portable - Most Popular "E" Rated Games:

1 Gran TurismoRacingSony Computer Entertainment
2 Need for Speed: ShiftRacingElectronic Arts
3 Madden NFL 10SportsElectronic Arts
4 BeateratorStrategy/SimTake Two
5 NBA Live 10SportsElectronic Arts
6 Little Big PlanetAction AdventureSony Computer Entertainment
7 Dirt 2RacingCodemasters
8 Final FantasyRPGSquare Enix
9 Half-Minute HeroRPGXseed Games
10 Cloudy with a Chance of MeatballsKids/FamilyUbisoft

Xbox - Most "E" Rated Popular Games:

1 Scooby Doo: UnmaskedKids/FamilyTHQ
2 Need for Speed: Underground 2RacingElectronic Arts
3 Madden NFL 09SportsElectronic Arts
4 SpongeBob SquarePants: The MovieAction AdventureTHQ
5 Need For Speed: Hot Pursuit 2RacingElectronic Arts
6 Crash Bandicoot: The Wrath of CortexAction AdventureVivendi Universal
7 Star Wars Starfighter: Special EditionAction AdventureLucasArts
8 BionicleAction AdventureElectronic Arts
9 Fuzion FrenzySportsMicrosoft
10 Sonic HeroesAction AdventureSega

Gamecube - Most Popular "E" Rated Games:

1 Super Mario SunshineAction AdventureNintendo
2 Mario Kart: Double DashRacingNintendo
3 Luigi's MansionAction AdventureNintendo
4 Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of TimeRPGNintendo
5 Mario Party 7Kids/FamilyNintendo
6 Legend of Zelda: The Wind WakerAction AdventureNintendo
7 Legend of Zelda: Collector's EditionRPGNintendo
8 Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year DoorAction AdventureNintendo
9 Pokemon XD: Gale of DarknessAction AdventureNintendo
10 Sonic Adventure 2: BattleAction AdventureSega

Gameboy Advance - Most Popular "E" Rated Games:

1 Kingdom Hearts: Chain of MemoriesRPGSquare Enix
2 Pokemon Fire RedStrategy/SimNintendo
3 Pokemon EmeraldAction AdventureNintendo
4 Super Mario Advance 4Action AdventureNintendo
5 Final Fantasy VI AdvanceRPGNintendo
6 Pokemon: SapphireRPGNintendo
7 Pokemon Leaf GreenStrategy/SimNintendo
8 Legend of Zelda: Minish CapRPGNintendo
9 Pokemon: RubyRPGNintendo
10 Yoshi's Island: Super Mario Advance 3Action AdventureNintendo

Most Popular Sports Games Cross-Platform:

1 NBA 2K10PS3, Xbox 360, Wii, PSP Games, PS2Take Two
2 Madden NFL 10PS3, Xbox 360, Wii, PSP Games, PS2Electronic Arts
3 NBA Live 10PS3, Xbox 360, PSP GamesElectronic Arts
4 NHL 10PS3, Xbox 360Electronic Arts
5 Wii Sports ResortWiiNintendo
6 Mario & Sonic at the Winter Olympic GamesWii, DSSega
7 FIFA Soccer 10PS3, Xbox 360, Wii, DS, PSP Games, PS2Electronic Arts
8 NCAA Football 10PS3, Xbox 360, PSP Games, PS2Electronic Arts
9 Skate 2PS3, Xbox 360Electronic Arts
10 Tiger Woods PGA Tour 10PS3, Xbox 360, Wii, PSP Games, PS2Electronic Arts

Xbox 360 Most Popular Sports Games:

1 NBA 2K10SportsTake Two
2 Madden NFL 10SportsElectronic Arts
3 NBA Live 10SportsElectronic Arts
4 NHL 10SportsElectronic Arts
5 FIFA Soccer 10SportsElectronic Arts
6 NCAA Football 10SportsElectronic Arts
7 Skate 2SportsElectronic Arts
8 Tiger Woods PGA Tour 10SportsElectronic Arts
9 The Bigs 2SportsTake Two
10 NHL 2K10SportsTake Two

PlayStation 3 Most Popular Sports Games:

1 NBA 2K10SportsTake Two
2 Madden NFL 10SportsElectronic Arts
3 NBA Live 10SportsElectronic Arts
4 NHL 10SportsElectronic Arts
5 FIFA Soccer 10SportsElectronic Arts
6 NCAA Football 10SportsElectronic Arts
7 Tiger Woods PGA Tour 10SportsElectronic Arts
8 Skate 2SportsElectronic Arts
9 MLB '09: The ShowSportsSony Computer Entertainment
10 The Bigs 2SportsTake Two

Nintendo Wii Most Popular Sports Games:

1 Wii Sports ResortSportsNintendo
2 Mario & Sonic at the Winter Olympic GamesSportsSega
3 Deca Sports 2SportsKonami
4 Tiger Woods PGA Tour 10SportsElectronic Arts
5 Madden NFL 10SportsElectronic Arts
6 Wacky World of SportsSportsSega
7 Family Fun FootballSportsTecmo
8 Mario Super SluggersSportsNintendo
9 NHL 2K10SportsTake Two
10 EA Sports: Grand Slam TennisSportsElectronic Arts

PlayStation 2 Most Popular Sports Games:

1 Madden NFL 10SportsElectronic Arts
2 NCAA Football 10SportsElectronic Arts
3 NBA 2K10SportsTake Two
4 NHL 2K10SportsTake Two
5 Tiger Woods PGA Tour 10SportsElectronic Arts
6 The Bigs 2SportsTake Two
7 FIFA Soccer 10SportsElectronic Arts
8 MLB '09: The ShowSportsSony Computer Entertainment
9 Backyard Football 2010SportsAtari
10 Madden NFL 09SportsElectronic Arts

Nintendo DS Most Popular Sports Games:

1 Mario & Sonic at the Winter Olympic GamesSportsSega
2 Mario Hoops 3 on 3SportsNintendo
3 Madden NFL 09SportsElectronic Arts
4 Skate ItSportsElectronic Arts
5 Tony Hawk's Downhill JamSportsActivision
6 The Bigs 2SportsTake Two
7 FIFA Soccer 06SportsElectronic Arts
8 Tecmo Bowl KickoffSportsTecmo
9 Diva Girls: Divas on IceSports505 Games
10 Elf Bowling 1 & 2SportsIgnition Entertainment

PlayStation Portable Most Popular Sports Games:

1 Madden NFL 10SportsElectronic Arts
2 NBA Live 10SportsElectronic Arts
3 NBA 2K10SportsTake Two
4 NCAA Football 10SportsElectronic Arts
5 Tiger Woods PGA Tour 10SportsElectronic Arts
6 NBA '10SportsSony Computer Entertainment
7 MLB '09: The ShowSportsSony Computer Entertainment
8 FIFA Soccer 10SportsElectronic Arts
9 The Bigs 2SportsTake Two
10 Tony Hawk's Project 8SportsActivision

Xbox Most Popular Sports Games:

1 Madden NFL 09SportsElectronic Arts
2 Fuzion FrenzySportsMicrosoft
3 BMX XXXSportsAcclaim
4 Disney's Extreme Skate AdventureSportsActivision
5 ESPN NFL 2K5SportsSega
6 Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 4SportsActivision
7 Kelly Slater's Pro SurferSportsActivision
8 Tony Hawk's Underground (THUG)SportsActivision
9 SSX 3: Out of BoundsSportsElectronic Arts
10 Tony Hawk's Underground 2SportsActivision

Gamecube Most Popular Sports Games:

1 Mario Superstar BaseballSportsNintendo
2 Super Mario StrikersSportsNintendo
3 NBA Street Vol. 3SportsElectronic Arts
4 NFL Street 2SportsElectronic Arts
5 NBA Street Vol. 2SportsElectronic Arts
6 Mario Golf: Toadstool TourSportsNintendo
7 Mario Power TennisSportsNintendo
8 Tony Hawk's American WastelandSportsActivision
9 Madden NFL 08SportsElectronic Arts
10 NFL Blitz ProSportsMidway

Gameboy Advance Most Popular Sports Games:

1 Mario Tennis: Power TourSportsNintendo
2 Backyard Sports: Baseball 2007SportsAtari
3 Madden NFL 2005SportsElectronic Arts
4 Backyard Baseball 2006SportsAtari
5 Mario Golf: Advance TourSportsNintendo
6 Major League Baseball 2K7SportsTake Two
7 Madden NFL 07SportsElectronic Arts
8 Madden NFL 06SportsElectronic Arts
9 ESPN Final Round Golf 2002SportsKonami
10 Madden NFL 2004SportsElectronic Arts

GameFly Coming Soon

1 Wii Fit PlusWiiStrategy/SimNintendo
2 Spore HeroWiiStrategy/SimElectronic Arts
3 Disney Sing It: Pop HitsWiiArcade/PuzzleDisney Interactive
4 Chicken BlasterWiiArcade/PuzzleZoo Games
5 Star Wars The Clone Wars: Republic HeroesNintendo DSAction AdventureLucasArts
6 Spore Hero ArenaNintendo DSStrategy/SimElectronic Arts
7 Star Wars The Clone Wars: Republic HeroesPSPAction AdventureLucasArts
8 NBA Live 10PSPSportsElectronic Arts
9 Star Wars The Clone Wars: Republic HeroesXbox 360Action AdventureLucasArts
10 NBA Live 10Xbox 360SportsElectronic Arts
11 Star Wars The Clone Wars: Republic HeroesPlayStation 3Action AdventureLucasArts
12 Disney Sing It: Pop HitsPlayStation 3Arcade/PuzzleDisney Interactive
13 NBA Live 10PlayStation 3SportsElectronic Arts
14 Star Wars The Clone Wars: Republic HeroesWiiAction AdventureLucasArts
15 NBA 2K10PlayStation 3SportsTake Two
16 SAWPlayStation 3Action AdventureKonami
17 AfrikaPlayStation 3Action AdventureNatsume
18 BCFX - The Doug Williams EditionXbox 360SportsAspyr
19 NBA 2K10Xbox 360SportsTake Two
20 SAWXbox 360Action AdventureKonami
21 Naruto Shippuden: Legends: Akatsuki RisingPSPFightingNamco
22 NBA 2K10PSPSportsTake Two
23 NBA '10PSPSportsSony Computer Entertainment
24 Biggest LoserNintendo DSStrategy/SimTHQ
25 Dreamer: Top ModelNintendo DSStrategy/SimDreamcatcher
26 Obscure: The AftermathPSPAction AdventurePlaylogic
27 NBA 2K10PlayStation 2SportsTake Two
28 Disney Sing It: Pop HitsPlayStation 2Arcade/PuzzleDisney Interactive
29 Jillian Michaels' Fitness Ultimatum 2010WiiKids/FamilyMajesco
30 Biggest LoserWiiStrategy/SimTHQ
31 Game Party 3WiiArcade/PuzzleWB Games
32 Pet Pals: New Leash on LifeNintendo DSStrategy/SimLegacy Interactive
33 Animal Paradise 2: WildNintendo DSStrategy/SimZoo Games
34 Operation Flashpoint: Dragon RisingXbox 360ShooterCodemasters
35 A Witch's TaleNintendo DSRPGKoei
36 Demon's SoulsPlayStation 3RPGAtlus
37 Operation Flashpoint: Dragon RisingPlayStation 3ShooterCodemasters
38 Pokemon Mystery Dungeon: Explorers of SkyNintendo DSStrategy/SimNintendo
39 Brutal LegendXbox 360Action AdventureElectronic Arts
40 Mario & Sonic at the Winter Olympic GamesNintendo DSSportsSega
41 Where the Wild Things ArePlayStation 3Kids/FamilyWB Games
42 A Boy and His BlobWiiAction AdventureMajesco
43 Uncharted 2: Among ThievesPlayStation 3Action AdventureSony Computer Entertainment
44 Brutal LegendPlayStation 3Action AdventureElectronic Arts
45 Where the Wild Things AreXbox 360Kids/FamilyWB Games
46 Where the Wild Things AreNintendo DSKids/FamilyWB Games
47 Petz: Pony Beauty PageantNintendo DSKids/FamilyUbisoft
48 Where the Wild Things AreWiiKids/FamilyWB Games
49 Mario & Sonic at the Winter Olympic GamesWiiSportsSega
50 Cars Race-O-RamaPSPKids/FamilyTHQ
51 Cars Race-O-RamaWiiKids/FamilyTHQ
52 Cars Race-O-RamaXbox 360Kids/FamilyTHQ
53 Cars Race-O-RamaNintendo DSKids/FamilyTHQ
54 Cars Race-O-RamaPlayStation 3Kids/FamilyTHQ
55 Cars Race-O-RamaPlayStation 2Kids/FamilyTHQ
56 DreamkillerXbox 360Action AdventureAspyr
57 Half-Minute HeroPSPRPGXseed Games
58 Sushi AcademyNintendo DSStrategy/SimCity Interactive
59 Cake Mania 3Nintendo DSStrategy/SimMajesco
60 Ju-on: The GrudgeWiiAction AdventureXseed Games
61 Laevatein TacticsNintendo DSRPGAksys
62 Way of the Samurai 3PlayStation 3Action AdventureAgetec
63 Way of the Samurai 3Xbox 360Action AdventureUFO Interactive
64 MagnaCarta IIXbox 360RPGNamco
65 Sudoku Ball DetectiveWiiArcade/PuzzlePlaylogic
66 Medieval GamesWiiArcade/PuzzleBethesda
67 Littlest Pet Shop: FriendsWiiKids/FamilyElectronic Arts
68 WWE Smackdown vs. Raw 2010WiiFightingTHQ
69 Charm Girls Club: Pajama PartyWiiKids/FamilyElectronic Arts
70 Safari AdventuresWiiAction AdventureConspiracy
71 Dr. Fizzwhizzle's Animal RescueWiiAction AdventureConspiracy
72 BakuganWiiAction AdventureActivision
73 Secret Saturdays: Beasts of the 5th SunWiiAction AdventureD3P
74 AstroboyWiiAction AdventureD3P
75 Marvel Super Hero SquadWiiAction AdventureTHQ
76 Shimano Xtreme FishingWiiSportsMastiff
77 Horse Life AdventuresWiiStrategy/SimValcon Games
78 FIFA Soccer 10WiiSportsElectronic Arts
79 AstroboyPSPAction AdventureD3P
80 BorderlandsXbox 360ShooterTake Two
81 FIFA Soccer 10Xbox 360SportsElectronic Arts
82 WWE Smackdown vs. Raw 2010Xbox 360FightingTHQ
83 BakuganXbox 360Action AdventureActivision
84 Jillian Michaels' Fitness Ultimatum 2010Nintendo DSKids/FamilyMajesco
85 Imagine: Fashion Designer World TourNintendo DSKids/FamilyUbisoft
86 Charm Girls Club: My Fashion ShowNintendo DSKids/FamilyElectronic Arts
87 Charm Girls Club: My Perfect PromNintendo DSKids/FamilyElectronic Arts
88 Charm Girls Club: My Fashion MallNintendo DSKids/FamilyElectronic Arts
89 Littlest Pet Shop: City FriendsNintendo DSKids/FamilyElectronic Arts
90 Littlest Pet Shop: Beach FriendsNintendo DSKids/FamilyElectronic Arts
91 Littlest Pet Shop: Country FriendsNintendo DSKids/FamilyElectronic Arts
92 WWE Smackdown vs. Raw 2010Nintendo DSFightingTHQ
93 BakuganPlayStation 3Action AdventureActivision
94 WWE Smackdown vs. Raw 2010PlayStation 3FightingTHQ
95 BorderlandsPlayStation 3ShooterTake Two
96 FIFA Soccer 10PlayStation 3SportsElectronic Arts
97 Cooking Mama 3: Shop & ChopNintendo DSStrategy/SimMajesco
98 Grand Theft Auto: Chinatown WarsPSPAction AdventureTake Two
99 Secret Saturdays: Beasts of the 5th SunPSPAction AdventureD3P
100 Marvel Super Hero SquadPSPAction AdventureTHQ
101 FIFA Soccer 10PSPSportsElectronic Arts
102 WWE Smackdown vs. Raw 2010PSPFightingTHQ
103 WWE Smackdown vs. Raw 2010PlayStation 2FightingTHQ
104 BakuganPlayStation 2Action AdventureActivision
105 Marvel Super Hero SquadPlayStation 2Action AdventureTHQ
106 Secret Saturdays: Beasts of the 5th SunPlayStation 2Action AdventureD3P
107 AstroboyPlayStation 2Action AdventureD3P
108 Secret Saturdays: Beasts of the 5th SunNintendo DSAction AdventureD3P
109 AstroboyNintendo DSAction AdventureD3P
110 Jam Sessions 2Nintendo DSArcade/PuzzleUbisoft
111 FIFA Soccer 10PlayStation 2SportsElectronic Arts
112 BakuganNintendo DSAction AdventureActivision
113 Marvel Super Hero SquadNintendo DSAction AdventureTHQ
114 FIFA Soccer 10Nintendo DSSportsElectronic Arts
115 NBA 2K10WiiSportsTake Two
116 Backyard Football 2010WiiSportsAtari
117 Buck FeverWiiShooterDestineer
118 Walk it OutWiiStrategy/SimKonami
119 Army RescueWiiAction AdventureUFO Interactive
120 Dragonball: Revenge of King PiccoloWiiAction AdventureNamco
121 DDR Disney GroovesWiiArcade/PuzzleKonami
122 We Wish You a Merry ChristmasWiiArcade/PuzzleDestineer
123 Pop'N MusicWiiArcade/PuzzleKonami
124 Jakers! Let's ExploreWiiKids/FamilyGraffiti Entertainment
125 DDR Hottest Party 2WiiKids/FamilyKonami
126 Geon CubeWiiArcade/PuzzleUFO Interactive
127 DDR Hottest PartyWiiArcade/PuzzleKonami
128 Balloon PopNintendo DSArcade/PuzzleUFO Interactive
129 Space Invaders Extreme 2Nintendo DSArcade/PuzzleSquare Enix
130 Reversal ChallengeNintendo DSArcade/PuzzleUFO Interactive
131 Montessori MusicNintendo DSArcade/PuzzleSouth Peak Interactive
132 MotorStorm Arctic EdgePlayStation 2RacingSony Computer Entertainment
133 Backyard Football 2010PlayStation 2SportsAtari
134 SideswipedNintendo DSRacingMajesco
135 Mytran WarsPSPStrategy/SimDeep Silver
136 Backyard Football 2010Xbox 360SportsAtari
137 Alien Monster Bowling LeagueWiiSportsDestineer
138 SpongeBob's Truth or SquareWiiKids/FamilyTHQ
139 SpongeBob's Truth or SquarePSPKids/FamilyTHQ
140 SpongeBob's Truth or SquareNintendo DSKids/FamilyTHQ
141 SpongeBob's Truth or SquareXbox 360Action AdventureTHQ
142 SimAnimals AfricaNintendo DSStrategy/SimElectronic Arts
143 CSI: Deadly Intent - The Hidden CasesNintendo DSAction AdventureUbisoft
144 Drawn to Life: The Next ChapterNintendo DSAction AdventureTHQ
145 Press Your Luck 2010 EditionNintendo DSArcade/PuzzleUbisoft
146 100 All-Time FavoritesNintendo DSArcade/PuzzleUbisoft
147 Madagascar KartzNintendo DSRacingActivision
148 Disney Fairies: Tinker Bell and the Lost TreasureNintendo DSKids/FamilyDisney Interactive
149 Petz: Dolphinz EncounterNintendo DSKids/FamilyUbisoft
150 ICarlyNintendo DSKids/FamilyActivision
151 CSI: Deadly IntentXbox 360Action AdventureUbisoft
152 Tekken 6Xbox 360FightingNamco
153 Madagascar KartzXbox 360RacingActivision
154 Forza Motorsport 3Xbox 360RacingMicrosoft
155 Petz: Saddle ClubPSPStrategy/SimUbisoft
156 NostalgiaNintendo DSRPGIgnition Entertainment
157 Ratchet & Clank Future: A Crack in TimePlayStation 3Action AdventureSony Computer Entertainment
158 Tekken 6PlayStation 3FightingNamco
159 Madagascar KartzPlayStation 3RacingActivision
160 Petz: Dogz FamilyPSPKids/FamilyUbisoft
161 Petz: Hamsterz BunchPSPKids/FamilyUbisoft
162 SimAnimals AfricaWiiStrategy/SimElectronic Arts
163 Monster 4X4 Stunt RacerWiiRacingUbisoft
164 Ski-Doo: Snowmobile ChallengeWiiRacingValcon Games
165 Madagascar KartzWiiRacingActivision
166 All Star Cheer Squad 2WiiKids/FamilyTHQ
167 Water SportsWiiSportsActivision
168 Mountain SportsWiiSportsActivision
169 ICarlyWiiKids/FamilyActivision
170 Drawn to Life: The Next ChapterWiiAction AdventureTHQ
171 Press Your Luck 2010 EditionWiiArcade/PuzzleUbisoft
172 CSI: Deadly IntentWiiAction AdventureUbisoft
173 Ni Hao, Kai-Lan: Super Game DayWiiKids/FamilyTake Two
174 Are You Smarter than a 5th Grader? Game TimeWiiKids/FamilyTHQ
175 World of ZooWiiKids/FamilyTHQ
176 Hasbro Family Game Night 2WiiKids/FamilyElectronic Arts
177 Are You Smarter than a 5th Grader? Game TimeXbox 360Kids/FamilyTHQ
178 BackyardigansNintendo DSKids/FamilyTake Two
179 Are You Smarter than a 5th Grader? Game TimeNintendo DSKids/FamilyTHQ
180 World of ZooNintendo DSKids/FamilyTHQ
181 Hasbro Family Game NightNintendo DSKids/FamilyElectronic Arts
182 Fighting FantasyNintendo DSAction AdventureAspyr
183 Ni Hao, Kai-Lan: Super Game DayPlayStation 2Kids/FamilyTake Two
184 Ben 10 Alien Force Vilgax AttacksPlayStation 2Action AdventureD3P
185 Ben 10 Alien Force Vilgax AttacksNintendo DSAction AdventureD3P
186 Touchmaster 3Nintendo DSArcade/PuzzleWB Games
187 Diner Dash 3: Flo on the GoNintendo DSArcade/PuzzleZoo Games
188 Ben 10 Alien Force Vilgax AttacksPSPAction AdventureD3P
189 Grand Theft Auto: Episodes from Liberty CityXbox 360Action AdventureTake Two
190 Ben 10 Alien Force Vilgax AttacksXbox 360Action AdventureD3P
191 Ben 10 Alien Force Vilgax AttacksWiiAction AdventureD3P
192 Atelier Annie: Alchemists of Sera IslandNintendo DSRPGKoei
193 Reader Rabbit KindergartenNintendo DSKids/FamilyGraffiti Entertainment
194 101-in-1 Party MegamixWiiArcade/PuzzleAtlus
195 Remington North American Bird HuntWiiShooterMastiff
196 Bass Pro Shops: The StrikeWiiStrategy/SimPsyclone
197 Fairytale FightsPlayStation 3Action AdventurePlaylogic
198 Bass Pro Shops: The StrikeXbox 360Strategy/SimPsyclone
199 Fairytale FightsXbox 360Action AdventurePlaylogic
200 Wedding DashNintendo DSStrategy/SimZoo Games
201 Agatha Christie: ABC MurdersNintendo DSAction AdventureDreamcatcher
202 Chronicles of Mystery: Curse of the Ancient TempleNintendo DSAction AdventureCity Interactive
203 Lord of the Rings: Aragorn's QuestPlayStation 2Action AdventureWB Games
204 Lord of the Rings: Aragorn's QuestPSPAction AdventureWB Games
205 Lord of the Rings: Aragorn's QuestWiiAction AdventureWB Games
206 Rabbids Go HomeNintendo DSAction AdventureUbisoft
207 Rabbids Go HomeWiiAction AdventureUbisoft

NHL videogame battle: EA vs 2KSports

2009-10-06T11:05:00.002-04:00

The 2009-10 NHL season kicked off recently, so now is the perfect time to look at the two big new pro hockey games.

NHL 2K10

***1/2

When 2K Sports lost its NFL license a few years back, it was a blow to gamers - after all, the company really knows how to make a sports simulation. Need proof? Look no further than the latest installment of its hockey franchise.

This year, 2K Sports has made the game easier to play (thankfully) with an entirely new artificial intelligence. There are new animations, and you get more control on defense. There are new introductions for each arena. There are better - and longer - goal celebrations, plus a much deeper franchise mode. There's a new contract/free agency system, and in the Wii version, some neat mini-games that anybody can pick up and play easily.

But more than all that, "NHL 2K10" just looks and feels like you would want a hockey game to look and play like. The players are bigger and more realistic than before. The speed is just right. San Jose Sharks announcer Randy Hahn adds to the realistic experience with his excited and varied commentary. There's a complete online suite of features to track individual performances and join leagues.

Not much to dislike here.

NHL 10

***

EA Sports has tried to emphasize little things: Bigger players can easily hold off smaller ones. You'll see fans banging on the glass. Your players will get noticeably fatigued. You can bank passes off the wall. In fights, you can pull your opponent's jersey over his head to try to give yourself an advantage.

And I loved how, once you reach the playoffs, arenas are louder, fans more passionate.

EA Sports' new hockey game also has added a neat feature that allows you to easily toggle your game experience from a pick-up-and-play casual mode with lots of big hits (but soft defense) to a hardcore mode that gives you complete control over passes (and is much harder than I anticipated). It's like driving a car without power steering.

It doesn't look or play quite as well as the stellar "NHL 2K10," but it's still a winner.

L

Multi-Media Messaging arrives for iPhone

2009-09-25T14:18:00.004-04:00

AT&T activated multi-media messaging on iPhone 3G and 3GS devices today. It's a long awaited update that will allow users to include multimedia options with text messages.

Click here for a how-to from Apple.

DirecTV's DoublePlay: live DVR features for 2 programs at once

2009-09-15T10:29:00.002-04:00

DirecTV has brought back a popular feature not seen since it was partnered with TiVo years ago: the ability to control two programs at the same time with full DVR functionality.

DirecTV is calling it "DoublePlay."

When the company used to feature TiVo-branded DVRs, customers could set the device to two shows on two different channels, flip back and forth between them, while also being able to rewind or fast forward (up to the live feed) either show. When the companies split and DirecTV introduced its own DVRs, that functionality was not included, and longtime customers complained mightily.

Now the company has brought it back. So NFL Sunday Ticket customers can, for instance, flip back and forth between Panthers-Falcons and Jets-Patriots, rewind to see plays they missed and then catch up to the live feed before returning to the other game.

It's a smart feature to bring back.

Janet Jackson releases new track, Make Me, via website

2009-09-14T17:43:00.006-04:00

One night after a tribute performance to her brother Michael, Janet Jackson has released a new single called "Make Me." You can get the song, which borrows from Michael's iconic "Don't' Stop Til You Get Enough," by signing up on her website

On Sunday night, Jackson performed a duet she had recorded with Michael, "Scream," at the MTV Music Video Awards.

After the video for the song showed Michael singing a verse on screen, Janet burst through a mirror and sang her verse before performing the dance sequence from the song. The crowd stood throughout the performance, giving Jackson a rousing ovation.

Now comes the new track, an up-tempo number that has one of those beats that is hard to sit down and listen to, plus a memorable hook. It should be a club hit. Jackson has made solid music with her previous three albums, but the efforts weren't well-received at radio and her sales suffered after strong starts.

"Make Me" is another strong effort, and with radio support it could be a No. 1 single. The industry Web site All Access lists a new album from Jackson, called "#1s" due Nov. 17. That sounds like a greatest hits album of her No. 1 singles.

Beatles game one of the best of season

2009-09-05T09:12:00.000-04:00

The band games are coming! The band games are coming!

Today, “Guitar Hero 5” – the latest title in a billion-dollar franchise that has sold more than 35 million games – launches tie-ins with instrument, equipment and footwear brands. What this means: Your rock avatar can now play with Ibanez guitars and EMG guitar pickups while wearing Converse sneakers. The game's set list includes everything from the Rolling Stones to Stevie Wonder.

But there's only one place to get the Beatles.

One of the most highly anticipated games of the year debuts Wednesday. “The Beatles: Rock Band” will come in two versions. There's the standalone software, compatible with previous “Rock Band” instrument controllers and most “Guitar Hero” hardware ($59.99 for Nintendo Wii, PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360). There's also a “Limited Edition Premium Bundle” with equipment ($249.99). A line of Beatles-specific instruments will go for $99.99 each.

The game will allow fans to play 45 of the Fab Four's greatest hits (more songs coming soon). It is done in the mold of previous “Rock Band” games: Three players can use instruments (guitar, bass and drums), while another can sing – although this time, up to three friends can hit the mic to try harmonies.

There's a story mode that involves taking the Beatles from their early days to an infamous performance on a rooftop in London (originally performed in 1969). Another mode, called “Dreamscapes,” has the band in psychedelic fashions and features wild colors and flowers blooming while the music plays. Players can unlock special content, including previously unreleased audio from recording sessions. And of course, there's online play and a no-fail mode that keeps you from getting booed off the stage.

It's interesting to note that this is the first time that Beatles tracks have been legally available digitally (though gamers can only stream or download on the game console). The band has previously rejected attempts to make its 24-album catalog accessible online via retailers such as the iTunes Music Store.

Original band members Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr and Pete Best helped develop the game along with the wives of deceased members John Lennon and George Harrison (Yoko Ono and Olivia Harrison).

According to nmoney.com article, this involvement resulted in great attention to detail. Ono was concerned with how the digitally recreated Lennon's eyes were moving on-screen. McCartney himself made sure that even the most minute visual details were correct.

Anyway, I got an early look at the game recently. My verdict? Graphically, the game is spot-on. That attention to detail is evident. And the actual gameplay experience is terrific.

Without question, “The Beatles: Rock Band” is one of the best games of the year.

Meet Megan Fox online today

2009-08-29T13:36:00.000-04:00

Actress Megan Fox, star of the “Transformers” movies and one of Hollywood's current “It” girls, will be on Xbox Live today at 6 p.m. to challenge owners of the “Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen” video game to multiplayer matches.

To play, you'll need to be an Xbox Live Gold member; be online by 5:30 p.m. and send a request to Fox's gamertag: “Megan Fox 2009.”

You can get more info at xbox.com/gwfme ganfox .

During the day, new downloadable content – including an additional difficulty level – will be made available.

Nintendo Wii Sports Van Stops At Concord Mills

2009-08-27T12:45:00.002-04:00

Nintendo's "Wii Sports Resort" interactive tour is stopping at Concord Mills today through Sunday. It will allow visitors a free, hand s-on experience with the game, which has sold more than one million copies less than a month since its launch July 26.

Sports Resort is a collection of easy-to-play sports games, such as basketball and table tennis. They take advantage of the Wii's remote, which you can use as if you're swinging a bat or racket, or make a throwing motion to t oss a ball.

The mobile tour will be set up in the Concord Mills' Food Court from noon to 9 p.m. today through Saturday. On Sunday, it will be live from noon to 7 p.m.

-- Join me at twitter.com/langstonwertzjr and facebook.com/langstonwertzjr

NBC to broadcast NFL games online

2009-08-20T15:11:00.005-04:00

NBC will offer its 17-game Sunday Night football schedule online at nbcsports.com and nfl.com

The live coverage will come from NBC's over-the-air broadcast plus four additional cameras for the online audience that will include new camera angles and interactive features. The online feed will be in HD quality and have a DVR-like function to allow viewers to pause, rewind and look at plays in slow motion.

-- Langston Wertz Jr.
lwertz@charlotteobserver.com
twitter.com/langstonwertzjr
facebook.com/langstonwertzjr

Microsoft's new webcam delivers widescreen video

2009-08-20T09:08:00.003-04:00

MIcrosoft's new LifeCam Cinema is what the company calls the first consumer webcam to offer widescreen video. This is you talking to Mom and Dad from college in near HD. The camera comes with a native 720 pixel sensor.

Microsoft says the LifeCam will deliver clearer images than a standard webcam and capture a much wider view. It says the camera will perform better in low light conditions as well.

Users will be to take their videos to Windows Live and use Windows Live Movie Maker, which now has HD support, and edit photos and videos shot with the webcam and send them to YouTube with one click (rather Apple-like).

LifeCam Cinema will be available in September for the estimated retail price of $79.95.

-- Langston Wertz Jr.
lwertz@charlotteobserver.com
twitter.com/langstonwertzjr
facebook.com/langstonwertzjr
charlotteobserver.com/205

Sega's Napolean War hitting stores soon

2009-08-19T17:12:00.001-04:00

SEGA's Napoleon: Total War is coming soon.

In the game, aspiring generals have the opportunity to play as the legendary French general Napoleon Bonaparte or as opposing forces. Battling through Napoleon’s three biggest military campaigns, the game will take you through Italy and Egypt, while the third campaign will tell the story of his fateful drive towards Moscow and, ultimately, his showdown with the Duke of Wellington at one of the most famous battles of all – The Battle of Waterloo.

Napoleon: Total War hits shelves in first quarter 2010.

Solving PGA golf broadcast problems on DTV

2009-08-15T15:07:00.003-04:00

There is some problem with DirecTV's feed of the PGA Championship on WBTV Channel 3. There was a black bar covering half the screen.

DirecTV viewers can see multiple feeds from the tournament including the network feed at channel 702. You can follow Tiger Woods and Vijay Singh, shot for shot, at channel 703 and see action at the Par 3s on Channel 704.

Madden 2010 game the best yet

2009-08-12T16:17:00.004-04:00

Of all the more recent generations of the popular Madden football videogame, the 2010 version, which releases today, (Aug. 14) is easily the most hyped and most anticipated.
Game-maker EA Sports said it was listening to its many gaming critics and promised to make Madden play and look more realistic. For the most part, I think the game hit its marks.

I tried the Wii version and was a little underwhelmed. Madden seemed a little too slow on the Wii and making a motion akin to rolling a bowling ball didn’t exactly make me feel like I was kicking anything. The graphics weren’t very sharp and were very cartoonish-looking.

Even my 9-year-old put it down after only a few minutes. I did enjoy playing in the unlockable Super Bowl and Pro Bowl stadiums, though.

It was a different story on Xbox 360.

Madden has never looked better. A new online mode got my attention quickly. You pick one team in the league and play with up to 32 other users and compete head-to-head for 10 seasons.

I had a little trouble with slow upload times, but got the jist of it. Once you join a league, the game tracks everything that happens in your league down to trades, stats and injuries. You’ll find you want to know who’s hurt on Atlanta if you play the Falcons next.

You’ll also find you will want to horde your draft picks. This is a feature that will keep gamers going for months, and given that improvements to actual gameplay are getting incrementally slower each year, which you would expect after so many iterations, EA Sports could offer simple roster updates online every year and probably make a fortune for users who preferred to keep their old game. And Madden 10 is one I think you could stay with for a few years.

Other things I liked:  
-- Slower, more realistic game play.
-- The game plays more like real football.
--  There’s a new Madden app for iPhone and iPod touch coming next week that will allow you to manage your team remotely.  
-- Playing up to 30 seasons against the computer.
-- The Co-op mode where you and an online friend can control two players on the same team.  
-- A new postgame show (very good) and halftime show (OK)
--  And I loved all the new graphics.

You can literally send the fans home with great play and watch them leave. You can gang-tackle players and announcers Cris Collinsworth and Tom Hammond are awful chatty -- and that’s a good thing.

Now if it sounds like I’m going to rate this well, you’re right. Madden gets 3.5 stars out of 4. But I asked a reader, a devoted football gamer, Keith Quick, for his opinions.

Keith is a loyal NFL 2K5 player, five years later, and makes it point every year to call and tell me why the new Madden still isn’t as good as “his old game.”

Keith actually gives Madden an 8 out of 10, but complains about the challenge play system. He wants to be able to challenge any play and he wants a route-based passing system. Then he saw some bugs, like a defensive back running the same route his receiver was running and animations where the coaches would get up in a star’s face and let him have it.

“That doesn’t happen in the NFL,” he said. “Maybe high school or college.”

 Keith thinks EA Sports needs to rebuild the game engine from the ground up, like it did for the excellent FIFA soccer.

I think EA Sports has another hit on its hands with Madden 10, the best version of the game we’ve ever tried.

Langston Wertz Jr.: 704-358-5133; lwertz@charlotteobserver.com; twitter.com/langstonwertzjr; facebook.com/langstonwertzjr

Prison Break: the game on the way

2009-08-12T14:38:00.000-04:00

Deep Silver Inc., a publisher of interactive entertainment software, today announced the signing of a license agreement with Twentieth Century Fox Licensing & Merchandising (Fox Licensing) regarding the world-wide publication rights to a video game based on the award-winning TV series "Prison Break." "Prison Break", developed by Zootfly, will be released by Deep Silver for next gen consoles and PC.

The protagonist of the "Prison Break" game is Company agent Tom Paxton. He is sent to the Fox River State Penitentiary to find out why Michael Scofield (the hero of the TV series), a man without a previous criminal record, became a bank robber. The storyline runs parallel to the first season of "Prison Break": Paxton encounters several characters from the series and experiences key events from his own perspective.

Netgear releases new wire-free home networking kit

2009-08-10T11:21:00.002-04:00

Netgear has released a new version of its Powerline home networking devices. They help turn electrical power outlets into high-speed Internet and home network connections.

As a 2009 CES Innovations Award winner, NETGEAR's Home Theater Internet Connection Kit (XAVB1004) makes it possible to connect multiple Ethernet-enabled entertainment devices - such as gaming consoles, Blu-ray players, HDTVs and media streaming set-top boxes - to the Internet and the home network simultaneously. Previously you needed an outboard box to split the main signal from the NETGEAR into multiple lines for use in multiple devices.

Through a high-speed powerline connection of up to 200 Mbps, this powerline kit enables high-performance applications such as HD video streaming, Voice over IP (VoIP), Internet gaming and large file transfers to networked devices in the home theater.

The kit, which goes for $179.99, contains one Powerline AV Adapter with 4-port Ethernet Switch (XAV1004) and one Powerline AV Ethernet Adapter (XAV101). This "no new wires" powerline technology enables customers to carry high-speed data network traffic on their existing electrical wiring - using affordable, simple to install adapters. Additionally, advanced energy management capabilities provide automatic port- and device-level sleep modes and wake-on-activity functionality to reduce overall energy usage. The kit also incorporates several ease-of-use features: port-based Quality of Service (QoS) to ensure that the highest priority applications are allocated more bandwidth; Push-N-Secure to secure the Powerline AV network with the push of a button; and Pick-a-Plug, a multi-color LED to determine the strength of the powerline connection without having to look at a computer.

New headphones for the Xbox 360

2009-08-10T11:10:00.002-04:00

Turtle Beach, which specializes in premium XBOX 360 headsets, today announced a new addition the Ear Force X31. It includes digital RF wireless CD-quality stereo sound plus XBOX LIVE chat.

The X31 also includes the Chat Boost, which automatically increases the volume of XBOX LIVE chat as the game gets louder, microphone monitoring so you can hear what you’re saying even though the headset is covering your ears and bass boost to enhance the deep bass from explosions and other sounds. For superior sound fidelity, the X31 ear cups incorporate improved 40 mm speakers based on the same design as the high-fidelity X41 speakers.

Enhancements in the X31 over the original X3 model include:

The X3 analog infrared wireless signal has been replaced with digital 2.4 GHz RF wireless technology, for low-latency, uncompressed, CD-quality sound with no background hiss, no interference from plasma TV screens and no line of sight restrictions between the transmitter and headset.

The headset includes a Digital Signal Processor for bass boost and stereo expander effects. An audible beep indicates which effect is turned on as you press the Effects button on the headset.

The X31 transmitter is powered by a USB port on the XBOX or nearby PC, Mac or laptop, so gamers will have one less power adapter to worry about. This is especially convenient when using it overseas, since it eliminates the need for special power adapter plugs.

A new “battery booster” circuit in the headset extends battery life for up to 25 hours and assures that the sound quality will stay crisp and clear until the batteries are completely drained. Optional rechargeable batteries can be used in place of alkaline batteries.

The X31 headset comfort has been improved by increasing the size of the ear cups so they sit around your ears rather than on top of them. In addition, the X3 vinyl ear cushions have been replaced with soft, fabric mesh ear cushions that let your ears breathe, for added comfort during long gaming sessions.

Although primarily designed for XBOX 360 gaming, the Ear Force X31 is compatible with other gaming consoles (note that the integrated microphone works only with the 360) and can also be used as a home-theater accessory for enjoying DVD movies, watching TV or listening to music.

The Ear Force X31 headset has an MSRP of $99.95 and will be available at Best Buy, GameStop and other major US and Canadian retailers in September, and from the Turtle Beach web site www.turtlebeach.com. Turtle Beach Ear Force headsets are distributed in Europe by Mad Catz® Interactive, Inc. (AMEX/TSX: MCZ www.madcatz.com.)

NEW DOLBY DIGITAL VERSION OUT TOO

Turtle Beach's Ear Force X41 includes wireless Dolby Digital sound.

A digital optical input on the X41 transmitter connects to the XBOX 360 for pure-digital, high-quality audio. A digital optical output connects to a home theater system for simultaneously using the X41 headset and home theater speakers. Analog stereo inputs let you use the headset for listening to MP3 players, TV audio or other analog sources.

Enhancements in the X41 over the original X4 model include:

The X4 analog infrared wireless signal has been replaced with digital 2.4 GHz RF wireless technology, for low-latency, uncompressed, CD-quality sound with no background hiss, no interference from plasma TV screens and no line of sight restrictions between the transmitter and headset.

The X41 uses the latest version of Dolby technology to support game sound in 7.1 channels instead of 5.1 channels, for improved surround sound accuracy.

Dolby Pro Logic has been upgraded to Dolby Pro Logic® IIx.

The X41 transmitter includes a headphone jack and volume control for an additional wired headset, so a second player can hear the same Dolby surround sound that’s being transmitted to the X41 wireless headset.

The X41 transmitter is powered by a USB port on the XBOX or nearby PC, Mac or laptop, so gamers will have one less power adapter to worry about. This is especially convenient when using it overseas, since it eliminates the need for special power adapter plugs.

A new “battery booster” circuit in the headset extends battery life for up to 25 hours and assures that the sound quality will stay crisp and clear until the batteries are completely drained. Optional rechargeable batteries can be used in place of alkaline batteries.

The velvet ear cushions used on the X4 have been replaced with rich, soft, fabric mesh cushions that let your ears breathe, for added comfort during long gaming sessions.

Although primarily designed for XBOX 360 gaming, the Ear Force X41 is compatible with other gaming consoles (note that the integrated microphone works only with the 360) and can also be used as a home-theater accessory for enjoying DVDs in Dolby surround sound, watching TV or listening to music.

The Ear Force X41 headset has an MSRP of $199.95 and will be available at Best Buy and other major US retailers in September, and from the Turtle Beach web site www.turtlebeach.com. Turtle Beach Ear Force headsets are distributed in Europe by Mad Catz® Interactive, Inc. (AMEX/TSX: MCZ www.madcatz.com.)

"Players Only" videogame show returns for new season

2009-08-10T11:01:00.002-04:00

Digital Trends has announced the debut of season two of its popular PC and video game show "Players Only with Scott Steinberg."

New episodes of the documentary series, which offers viewers an inside look at the $22 billion interactive entertainment business, will be available starting today and every Monday from August 17th-September 28th at the company's website.

The action kicks off immediately with a special two-part season opener, as the biggest names in gaming cast aside the industry's "recession-proof" image and reveal whether or not video games are ultimately destined for extinction.

In addition to regular episodes, which are free to distribute via all electronic forms, Players Only with Scott Steinberg's 2009 run will also feature the premiere of multiple extended Director's Cut editions, available exclusively at DigitalTrends.com. Topics covered this season will range from the changing face of game design and journalism to the rise of indie games, social networks and devices like the iPhone and Microsoft's motion-sensing Project Natal control system, which are quickly reshaping the future of play. Hosted by noted PC and video game expert Scott Steinberg (http://www.thevideogameexpert.com), the show will also feature guest appearances by game industry stars such as David Perry, Cliff Bleszinski, Chris Taylor, Ted Price, Ian Livingstone, John Romero, Lorne Lanning and Brad Wardell.

-- Langston Wertz Jr.
lwertz@charlotteobserver.com
twitter.com/langstonwertzjr
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Fossil fighters coming to Nintendo DS and DSi

2009-08-10T10:47:00.002-04:00

Want to play with some Dinos on your Nintendo portable? You've got your wish.

Today, NIntendo dropped the Fossil Fighters video game, which takes you to a world in which fearsome creatures are hidden as fossils for players to collect, using the unique touch-screen controls of Nintendo DS. Players can clean, collect and battle their discoveries.

The game features more than 100 dinosaur-like creatures called Vivosaurs, each of which can be revived and deployed in strategic turn-based battles. With fun tactical elements, vast environments to explore and a lighthearted storyline and characters, Fossil Fighters allows players to control and customize a team of Vivosaurs as they battle their way through the mysterious Vivosaur Island. Players can also connect over local wireless with friends to battle customized teams of Vivosaurs or trade their fossils.

“Dinosaurs are a source of endless fascination for the young and the young at heart,” said Cammie Dunaway, Nintendo of America’s executive vice president of Sales & Marketing. “Combining customization and social play, Fossil Fighters brings together the best elements of hand-held gaming for players of all ages.”

Using the Nintendo DS stylus and touch screen, players can chip and drill away at each fossil they find. They can even blow into the Nintendo DS microphone to clear away dust. Once a fossil head is cleaned, the Vivosaur can be revived and used in battle. Other fossilized body parts can also be found and cleaned to imbue each Vivosaur with special powers. Players can create custom teams of three Vivosaurs, strategically selecting the best trio for each encounter.

AT&T offers the iPhone for $49. Seriously

2009-08-09T21:55:00.001-04:00

Remember when the iPhone cost a mortgage payment?

AT&T has recently started selling a refurbished iPhone 3G for $49. You have to get the two-year contract and you must keep the $30 per month data plan on the phone for life (something I would definitely try to talk my way out of).

The new 8-gig 3G costs $99 new without the data stipulation but it's still something to think about, an iPhone for under 50 bucks.

Now if only AT&T could offer a $99 everything plan like Sprint has for the excellent Palm Pre.

-- Langston Wertz Jr.
lwertz@charlotteobserver.com
twitter.com/langstonwertzjr
facebook.com/langstonwertzjr