Gaming
How do you play video games like GTA?
May/13/2008 01:27 PM
I'm certain that I do things that others don't when
it comes to games like Halo and GTA. When I used to
play campaign with my nephew he would shoot the
Marines for fun and it would bother me. I told him
not to do that, not because the Marines were
helpful but because they were on our side and they
communicated with us. When I started playing GTA4 a
couple weeks ago I would run a lot, look for parked
cars to jack and avoid all pedestrians. I never run
over pedestrians for fun, or shoot them or anything
like that. I will take someone's car to speed up
the story.
I've even tried to finish a GTA4 mission without killing cops, I did however shoot them in the leg (Terminator style). The game didn't let me, no problem, I kill them all and escape. Maybe I could have knocked them out or something else but I didn't try. I assume the mission was designed to have me kill them, in the game to police aren't that respectable.
I don't mind the violence, I still attempt to make a decent decision. It's just a game and the majority of it fun, that which isn't fun is just neutral (doesn't affect me either way).
I've even tried to finish a GTA4 mission without killing cops, I did however shoot them in the leg (Terminator style). The game didn't let me, no problem, I kill them all and escape. Maybe I could have knocked them out or something else but I didn't try. I assume the mission was designed to have me kill them, in the game to police aren't that respectable.
I don't mind the violence, I still attempt to make a decent decision. It's just a game and the majority of it fun, that which isn't fun is just neutral (doesn't affect me either way).
|
4th time is the charm. GTA4, MGS4 and COD4.
May/06/2008 04:56 PM
This is a list of games that are on their fourth version and also the first time I've ever played them. GTA4 is amazing, I had also never played a GTA game before. It's so much better than games that are similar. COD4 is awesome, I had never played COD before this one and I've invested more time in it than Halo 3. MGS, another game I've never played but MGS4 is going to make me buy a PS3. With DualShock3 of course.
TheMacJedi Logo
April/29/2008 10:01 PM
Back when Halo 3 came out I had to pick an emblem
for my suit. I found one called Cancel, what I
liked about it was that it looked like a modern Mac
Finder logo. So I colored it just right and it
really does work. I recently sent an email to
Bungie legal to make sure that they don't care and
it's not a problem that I use it elsewhere. Yes
that's me on the Mongoose and my friend Shawn in
the background. My Gamertag on Xbox Live is
TheMacJedi.
I recreated the emblem in hi-res so I could use it for anything. I'm quite happy with it. Just waiting for Bungie or MS to give me a thumbs up.
I recreated the emblem in hi-res so I could use it for anything. I'm quite happy with it. Just waiting for Bungie or MS to give me a thumbs up.
Xbox Live is five years old. I was an early Beta tester.
November/15/2007 07:25 PM
I purchased my Xbox Live Starter Pack on 9/20/2002
for $49.95. I remember receiving it not to long
after. It came with some cool stuff, at least I
thought it was at the time. It came with a t-shirt
that read "I've got great hands", headset and
adapter, orange memory card, carrying case and beta
games. I continued to receive a few Beta Disks over
the next few weeks.
I signed up with the gamertag "thexboxjedi". I found that referring to myself as an Xbox Jedi gave people the impression I was good. It made me a target which didn't help because I wasn't that good, but I love to play. So I changed it to "themacjedi" shortly after the Xbox 360 came out.
My 5 year experience with Xbox Live has been awesome. I have a few friends on Live that joined because of me. I played games online with my Mac before I had Live but it wasn't no where near as cool. Being able to talk to all of the players is a fantastic thing. There are always going to be people who you don't want to hear and Live handles that.
The new Live with the 360 is a significant improvement. I enjoy it every day.
I signed up with the gamertag "thexboxjedi". I found that referring to myself as an Xbox Jedi gave people the impression I was good. It made me a target which didn't help because I wasn't that good, but I love to play. So I changed it to "themacjedi" shortly after the Xbox 360 came out.
My 5 year experience with Xbox Live has been awesome. I have a few friends on Live that joined because of me. I played games online with my Mac before I had Live but it wasn't no where near as cool. Being able to talk to all of the players is a fantastic thing. There are always going to be people who you don't want to hear and Live handles that.
The new Live with the 360 is a significant improvement. I enjoy it every day.
Xbox 360 Chatpad
September/24/2007 03:30 PM
Let's start with the Chatpad Positives:
To go from having to use the virtual keyboard to an actual keyboard is fantastic. When pressing keys you get audible feedback from the TV. All of the keys that would need are there, including a few you may never use. It fix snugly onto your controller and feels very solid. It has a headset jack on the front to plug your new headset into. The keys light up for dark room use.
Now the Chatpad Negatives:
The Chatpad is designed with the white controller in mind. Therefore when attaching it to the new Black, Blue, Pink or Halo controller it looks very poorly thought out. For example, with such a small keyboard footprint they should have designed the casing with the grey color most of the controllers have and made the keyboard white or shiny (like the Guide button) with black letters. This would have increased the contrast significantly. I find I have to focus on the keyboard more than normal because of the current contract. It's difficult to read and I have 20/15 vision.
Chatpad Wrapup:
It's great to have a keyboard. I'm looking forward to the next version that might be a neutral color with a high contrast keyboard.
Additional Thoughts:
I believe the Chatpad was designed for an upcoming Xbox 360 Web Browser. They are marketing it as a Messenger solution but I can't find people who use Messenger.
Bungie Podcast about Artificial Intelligence
August/25/2007 01:40 PM
In the latest podcast from Bungie, they
explore the nuances of artificial
intelligence. While out to dinner with my wife
last night, I was explaining some of the more
interesting comments on the show. I was
explaining about the 'if - then" and she said
it will never be like humans until they make
mistakes. She gave an example of someone
walking up to a door and pushing on it, then
looking around and pushing on it again, then
pushing on the door next to it. When the door
has a sticker on it that says "Pull."
This got me thinking, maybe she's right, maybe artificial intelligence will never be human-like until it incorporates artificial ignorance.
AI&I (Artificial Intelligence & Ignorance). I know characters can make several right decisions, but what about wrong decisions. Like running for it when they should have stayed still. What about shooting at their buddies when they come around a corner and get startled? What about forgetting to reload after each battle and running out of ammo in the next battle?
I want to see an enemy run towards me, start shooting and run out of ammo after 2 shots. Then I beat them down while they're reloading.
This got me thinking, maybe she's right, maybe artificial intelligence will never be human-like until it incorporates artificial ignorance.
AI&I (Artificial Intelligence & Ignorance). I know characters can make several right decisions, but what about wrong decisions. Like running for it when they should have stayed still. What about shooting at their buddies when they come around a corner and get startled? What about forgetting to reload after each battle and running out of ammo in the next battle?
I want to see an enemy run towards me, start shooting and run out of ammo after 2 shots. Then I beat them down while they're reloading.
Fable and Crackdown, Seperated at birth.
July/13/2007 05:36 PM
I've written several articles about the
similarities between TV shows, LOST
and Earth 2, Kyle XY
and John Doe, including a few small ones.
Today's article is about two video games that
have too much in common for it to be just a
coincidence.
One of my favorite games of all time is Fable for the original Xbox. I loved the atmosphere of the game, the music, the mystery. It might not have been everything they originally intended it to be but that didn't concern me. The game is very much an Action RPG. Since I don't care for your typical RPG I was surprised how much I like it.
So a couple months ago I picked up Crackdown for the same reason most people picked it up. What I didn't know was that Crackdown was an Action RPG. But not any Action RPG, an Action RPG that was separated at birth from Fable.
There are so many similarities that I can't believe no one has written about them. So let me provide a few similarities and differences.
Similarities:
1. Central hub of the world, (F) The Guild, (CD) The Keep.
2. Several cities to explore, with different missions for each.
2. Killing enemies releases glowing experience orbs that follow you and are used to level up.
3. As your character levels up they physically change in size.
4. Attacking Guards or Peace Keepers will have all of them attacking you.
5. Use Cullis Gates and Supply Points to move from one locations to another.
6. You level up several major areas of your strength, skill, agility and will.
Additional Similarities:
First - In both Crackdown and Fable, your character never had a definitive persona to him. Roughly speaking, neither of them carried an actual "name," but instead were referred to as the "Hero" (Fable) or "Agent" (Crackdown). In addition, although each character shared the exact same personality or skills as every other "character," you could alter their appearance without changing overall gameplay or story.
Second - There were a variety of mini-games that despite not adding or subtracting to the game's storyline, they offered a larger scope to overall gameplay that aided in boosting your stats to make progression through the game easier or quicker.
Third - Both characters neither talk nor show a certain degree of individuality among the environment and other characters (NPCs), more so in Crackdown than in Fable.
Let's discuss the differences:
First - In Fable, there were several NPCs and essential characters that furthered the story and provided a deeper involvement in the overall gameplay, common in the RPG genre. However, in Crackdown, there was little to no association with any NPC or other character that contributed to the plot.
Second - In Fable, you could choose a path to follow that changed the scope of the game in either a hero or villain fashion depending on your general choices throughout the game as a person. However, in Crackdown you had no choice as to what path to follow, but were confined to a more linear gameplay, in which you played the "bad cop" or "antihero."
Third - In Fable, you had a two-weapon scheme, in which you carried one melee weapon and one long range weapon, albeit their are more archaic variations to more modern armaments. In Crackdown, you still retain a two-weapon scheme, but are not limited as to what should be carried and, thus, more modern weapons are utilized with a more long range combat tone to the overall gameplay.
Well there you have it, these games actually have a lot in common. I would like to thank Stephen Jenkins for his help on the Similarities and Differences. Since we both played each game a lot I knew he would be able to provide accurate info.
If you have any additional Similarities and Differences please send them through my contact form.
One of my favorite games of all time is Fable for the original Xbox. I loved the atmosphere of the game, the music, the mystery. It might not have been everything they originally intended it to be but that didn't concern me. The game is very much an Action RPG. Since I don't care for your typical RPG I was surprised how much I like it.
So a couple months ago I picked up Crackdown for the same reason most people picked it up. What I didn't know was that Crackdown was an Action RPG. But not any Action RPG, an Action RPG that was separated at birth from Fable.
There are so many similarities that I can't believe no one has written about them. So let me provide a few similarities and differences.
Similarities:
1. Central hub of the world, (F) The Guild, (CD) The Keep.
2. Several cities to explore, with different missions for each.
2. Killing enemies releases glowing experience orbs that follow you and are used to level up.
3. As your character levels up they physically change in size.
4. Attacking Guards or Peace Keepers will have all of them attacking you.
5. Use Cullis Gates and Supply Points to move from one locations to another.
6. You level up several major areas of your strength, skill, agility and will.
Additional Similarities:
First - In both Crackdown and Fable, your character never had a definitive persona to him. Roughly speaking, neither of them carried an actual "name," but instead were referred to as the "Hero" (Fable) or "Agent" (Crackdown). In addition, although each character shared the exact same personality or skills as every other "character," you could alter their appearance without changing overall gameplay or story.
Second - There were a variety of mini-games that despite not adding or subtracting to the game's storyline, they offered a larger scope to overall gameplay that aided in boosting your stats to make progression through the game easier or quicker.
Third - Both characters neither talk nor show a certain degree of individuality among the environment and other characters (NPCs), more so in Crackdown than in Fable.
Let's discuss the differences:
First - In Fable, there were several NPCs and essential characters that furthered the story and provided a deeper involvement in the overall gameplay, common in the RPG genre. However, in Crackdown, there was little to no association with any NPC or other character that contributed to the plot.
Second - In Fable, you could choose a path to follow that changed the scope of the game in either a hero or villain fashion depending on your general choices throughout the game as a person. However, in Crackdown you had no choice as to what path to follow, but were confined to a more linear gameplay, in which you played the "bad cop" or "antihero."
Third - In Fable, you had a two-weapon scheme, in which you carried one melee weapon and one long range weapon, albeit their are more archaic variations to more modern armaments. In Crackdown, you still retain a two-weapon scheme, but are not limited as to what should be carried and, thus, more modern weapons are utilized with a more long range combat tone to the overall gameplay.
Well there you have it, these games actually have a lot in common. I would like to thank Stephen Jenkins for his help on the Similarities and Differences. Since we both played each game a lot I knew he would be able to provide accurate info.
If you have any additional Similarities and Differences please send them through my contact form.
The Apple Sticker Game
May/06/2007 12:05 AM
Have you ever had your kids in the car and they're
bored. You know their bored because they said
"Daddy we're bored".
A few months ago I came up with a game to entertain the girls when they get bored. Or you can start a game if they're whining or annoying you.
It's called The Apple Sticker Game.
All they have to do is find a automobile with an Apple sticker on it.
The Rules:
1. You must be in an automobile with the engine running. Stickers can't be pointed out when engine is not running. If stickers are called out from outside the automobile or when the engine is off those stickers become void and can not be used in the game. Automobiles with stickers do not need to be moving or with their engine running. Any automobile with an Apple sticker is in play.
2. Can't be an Apple sticker that's been used in any other game. You know, my car, neighbors cars and such.
3. They have to be able to prove it. You know, point it out and such, honor system can be used if on highway.
4. Multiple stickers on a car are multiple opportunities. If an automobile has 3 stickers, one kid can win three dollars if they call them all.
5. If a parent notices an Apple sticker on a automobile and points it out, that automobile becomes void and can not be used in the game. I've never used this rule but I might if I lived in Cupertino.
6. This is The Apple Sticker Game, no other Apple logos are valid such as store signs, billboards or Apple stickers not on an automobile.
The Rewards:
1. Find an Apple sticker on an automobile and win a dollar.
2. Find an old multi-colored apple sticker on an automobile and win five dollars.
3. Find an Apple sticker placed on the inside of the car and therefore looks backwards from your point of view and win five dollars.
A few months ago I came up with a game to entertain the girls when they get bored. Or you can start a game if they're whining or annoying you.
It's called The Apple Sticker Game.
All they have to do is find a automobile with an Apple sticker on it.
The Rules:
1. You must be in an automobile with the engine running. Stickers can't be pointed out when engine is not running. If stickers are called out from outside the automobile or when the engine is off those stickers become void and can not be used in the game. Automobiles with stickers do not need to be moving or with their engine running. Any automobile with an Apple sticker is in play.
2. Can't be an Apple sticker that's been used in any other game. You know, my car, neighbors cars and such.
3. They have to be able to prove it. You know, point it out and such, honor system can be used if on highway.
4. Multiple stickers on a car are multiple opportunities. If an automobile has 3 stickers, one kid can win three dollars if they call them all.
5. If a parent notices an Apple sticker on a automobile and points it out, that automobile becomes void and can not be used in the game. I've never used this rule but I might if I lived in Cupertino.
6. This is The Apple Sticker Game, no other Apple logos are valid such as store signs, billboards or Apple stickers not on an automobile.
The Rewards:
1. Find an Apple sticker on an automobile and win a dollar.
2. Find an old multi-colored apple sticker on an automobile and win five dollars.
3. Find an Apple sticker placed on the inside of the car and therefore looks backwards from your point of view and win five dollars.
Achievement Junkie, My Favorite New Xbox News Podcast
May/04/2007 12:12 AM
Nelson and Natalie are an awesome team. They're
very entertaining and worth your time if you crave
Xbox news.
Check them out here http://achievementjunkie.com/ and the forums here http://achievementjunkie.com/forums/
You can also subscribe to their iTunes podcast here.
Look for themacjedi in the forums, I'm there regularly.
Check them out here http://achievementjunkie.com/ and the forums here http://achievementjunkie.com/forums/
You can also subscribe to their iTunes podcast here.
Look for themacjedi in the forums, I'm there regularly.
I love the way today's game consoles change.
April/30/2007 11:09 AM
In the past when you purchased a game console it
worked exactly the same from the day you bought it
to the day it died.
Starting with the PSP, Xbox 360, Playstation 3 and Nintendo Wii that all changed. I had a PSP from launch day and the cool thing about it was you were able to download updates that not only fixed problems but added new features. Some new features were minor in scope to others then there's the major feature like a web browser. That's a significant addition to a console that didn't ship with a web browser.
I've had my Xbox 360 from launch day and it has certainly has changed in the 16 months I've had it. Twice a year they update the Dashboard. The Dashboard is the hub of the 360, it gives you access to different parts of the system and has since included web access for TV and Movie downloads. Things that were not available when the console shipped. I believe we will soon have a web browser on the Xbox as well.
The ability to update consoles in this way makes them more like a computer. I mean that in the way you can update a computer and do new things that you couldn't do before. This is very exciting because it's one of the ways that computers keep from getting boring in the way they evolve and take over the aspects of other devices.
Think about all of the devices computers can now emulate and replace. TV, DVD player, CD player, radio, board games, puzzles and card games, older game consoles, letters, video conference, etc. Now think about how many of these things an Xbox 360 can do. All but a few, we are still waiting for Podcasts (that ones for you Major Nelson) and IP TV.
The entertainment of a game console is no longer limited to the games themselves.
Starting with the PSP, Xbox 360, Playstation 3 and Nintendo Wii that all changed. I had a PSP from launch day and the cool thing about it was you were able to download updates that not only fixed problems but added new features. Some new features were minor in scope to others then there's the major feature like a web browser. That's a significant addition to a console that didn't ship with a web browser.
I've had my Xbox 360 from launch day and it has certainly has changed in the 16 months I've had it. Twice a year they update the Dashboard. The Dashboard is the hub of the 360, it gives you access to different parts of the system and has since included web access for TV and Movie downloads. Things that were not available when the console shipped. I believe we will soon have a web browser on the Xbox as well.
The ability to update consoles in this way makes them more like a computer. I mean that in the way you can update a computer and do new things that you couldn't do before. This is very exciting because it's one of the ways that computers keep from getting boring in the way they evolve and take over the aspects of other devices.
Think about all of the devices computers can now emulate and replace. TV, DVD player, CD player, radio, board games, puzzles and card games, older game consoles, letters, video conference, etc. Now think about how many of these things an Xbox 360 can do. All but a few, we are still waiting for Podcasts (that ones for you Major Nelson) and IP TV.
The entertainment of a game console is no longer limited to the games themselves.
Xbox Controller Text Input Device (keyboard). The Real Reason
April/15/2007 07:36 PM
But this is isn't the real reason we are getting the TID. Yes, I know it ties in nicely with the Live IM network and it's all very plausible. But there is a more valid reason for this device.
The upcoming Xbox Live Browser. They probably will not refer to it as a stripped down IE for good reason. Too many negative comments and references about spyware and viruses.
Very few people are going to get the TID because of text messaging. But shortly after the TID is in the market for sale the browser will be announced. The browser will probably be tied to the Fall Dashboard Update. Will you have to pay for the browser? I doubt it, but expect to be told about the $19.99 TID repeatedly.
Like many of you I will not get it for text messaging. But give me a browser and that thing is mine. YouTube on my TV here I come. And hopefully the Xbox Live Browser will have the newest version of Flash unlike the Wii Browser which is running Flash 7. I also expect the browser to not have every feature that my computers browsers have.
The Xbox and Live Network are extremely secure and I don't want any damn browser that will change that. Neither does Microsoft.
So is Major Nelson sporting betas of the Xbox Live Browser on his Xbox? It's quite possible but even he isn't privy to everything. And if he does have it he has done a great job of not accidently spilling the beans.
SIDEBAR: The Spring Dashboard update is going to be awesome. Why you ask? Because of MPEG-4 and H.264 video support. As a Mac user I use Connect360 to play Music, Movies and Pictures on my 360. With the new Dashboard update and Connect360 Update I'll be able to play 90% of the videos on my computer through the 360 without conversion. Good Times, Good Times.
Microsoft just introduced Silverlight, which is suppose to complete with Flash and QuickTime. They are positioning it as a Mac and PC plugin for your browser with superior video capabilities. With the pending release of streaming video on your Xbox360 it seams to me that Silverlight is the heart of that technology. Especially since it's capable of 720p.
Xbox Live Streaming Video or IP TV will greatly increase the content available through your Xbox. I think it's safe to say that Microsoft will use the Zune as a testbed for the technology and the upcoming Xbox handheld. Silverlight may even be the OS that runs the Xbox Handheld.
I Love Video Chat with my MacBook and Xbox Live.
April/01/2007 11:21 PM
I just spent about 3 hours playing UNO with my
nephew who lives 3 hours away using the Xbox Live
Vision camera.
It's great because we can see each other and that makes the whole game experience warm.
In the middle of our game my wife invites me to a video chat with iChat on her MacBook from Galveston, TX where her and the girls are taking a road trip.
I was able to see the girls and tell them good night and make them miss me just a little less.
If there is a better time then right now it's going to be in the future because I Love what we can do today.
It's great because we can see each other and that makes the whole game experience warm.
In the middle of our game my wife invites me to a video chat with iChat on her MacBook from Galveston, TX where her and the girls are taking a road trip.
I was able to see the girls and tell them good night and make them miss me just a little less.
If there is a better time then right now it's going to be in the future because I Love what we can do today.
Don't buy a PS3, Sony refuses to learn.
June/25/2006 02:52 PM
I really thought Sony was going to make up for
their mistakes on the PS2 but apparently they were
only getting started.
The Sony Hype Machine is more powerful than any PS3 will ever be. Come on people, they're lying about stuff that a child could figure out. The latest is that they have been working on a motion sensing controller for 2 years and weren't able to include rumble, total BS. It's no coincidence that they introduce this feature only after Nintendo. Remember how they added a hard drive and ethernet to the PS2 after Microsoft said it would be built in to every Xbox? Even a PS3 game developer said they had been working with PS3 dev kits that included rumble.
They say that they can't get the rumble in the controller and motion sensing. This has more to do with their disagreements with Immersion than any real problem.
In this article from Engadget you'll see that the Wii controller has motion sensor and rumble.
Below is a video that really puts the screws to Sony and makes everything they've said sound ridiculous.
The Sony Hype Machine is more powerful than any PS3 will ever be. Come on people, they're lying about stuff that a child could figure out. The latest is that they have been working on a motion sensing controller for 2 years and weren't able to include rumble, total BS. It's no coincidence that they introduce this feature only after Nintendo. Remember how they added a hard drive and ethernet to the PS2 after Microsoft said it would be built in to every Xbox? Even a PS3 game developer said they had been working with PS3 dev kits that included rumble.
They say that they can't get the rumble in the controller and motion sensing. This has more to do with their disagreements with Immersion than any real problem.
In this article from Engadget you'll see that the Wii controller has motion sensor and rumble.
Below is a video that really puts the screws to Sony and makes everything they've said sound ridiculous.
My prediction for the Xbox handheld
June/23/2006 08:07 PM
Xbox Live Arcade will be one of it's big selling
points.
I believe that a handheld Xbox will incorporate the exact same XLA (Xbox Live Arcade) games that you can currently get through your 360. What's cooler is that you will probably be able to browse and download demos directly to the handheld. These will be the exact same games and since the handheld will probably be wide screen you will get the benefit of the wider games.
Think about this, Geometry Wars Retro Evolved in your hand. Sounds damn sweet.
They will release a handheld with the benefit of dozens of games that it can already play. If you bought it on your 360 you can play it on either system because it will log into the internet to confirm your account. You should also be able to buy from the handheld and then play it on your 360.
XLA is an awesome platform that they are going to take advantage of, think of the fighting game about to come to XLA.
Like the 360 the handheld will probably also include a similar blade like interface and yearly updates. I think it's safe to assume it will play music but if they tout it as an iPod killer it will die.
Will it play movies? Yes, but what kind? Definitely MOVs, WMVs and those types but what about Hollywood Movies? Probably but don't expect another proprietary format like the UMD (bad move Sony). They may be working on a downloadable format similar to what Apple is rumored to be doing right now.
What's in a name? I've said in the past (and I was correct) that the Xbox name would be like Nintendo in the fact that it precede the device name (ei. Nintendo DS, Xbox 360).
With that kind of logic we can assume that it will start with Xbox and end with it's own name. Examples, Xbox Orbit, Xbox Orbiter, Xbox Satellite, Xbox Comet, Xbox Radar, Xbox Nucleus (my favorite), Xbox Portable, Xbox OTG (on the go), Xbox TriPod (just kidding), Xbox Hero, Xbox Gauntlet, Xbox Matrix, Xbox Hugo (handheld unlimited gaming online), Xbox UHGO (pronounced "you go" (unlimited handheld gaming online), Xbox Punch, Xbox Sandbox, Xbox Icon, Xbox Thunderbird, Xbox Caffeine, Xbox Micro, Xbox Jammer, Xbox Carbon, OK that's enough.
Robby Bach, if you pick one of my names I get a free handheld, only fair.
Will it browse the web and check your email, probably. Will it have a touch screen, probably not but I think it would be cool if it did or at least a keyboard or virtual keyboard. Anyone who has used the PSP to browse the internet knows what a pain it is without a keyboard.
Will it survive with Arcade games only, not a change. So what else will this thing do? They will give it an awesome gaming engine but i imagine they will through every other feature possible at it to make it compete with the DS, PSP and iPod.
How big will it be? I think it will have a very similar looking screen to the PSP but the device will not be as tall or wide. Mostly due to the lack of a disk drive like the UMD. It could have a removable hard drive though.
If I'm only a little close to some of the specs it will rock. Handheld Halo anyone.
I believe that a handheld Xbox will incorporate the exact same XLA (Xbox Live Arcade) games that you can currently get through your 360. What's cooler is that you will probably be able to browse and download demos directly to the handheld. These will be the exact same games and since the handheld will probably be wide screen you will get the benefit of the wider games.
Think about this, Geometry Wars Retro Evolved in your hand. Sounds damn sweet.
They will release a handheld with the benefit of dozens of games that it can already play. If you bought it on your 360 you can play it on either system because it will log into the internet to confirm your account. You should also be able to buy from the handheld and then play it on your 360.
XLA is an awesome platform that they are going to take advantage of, think of the fighting game about to come to XLA.
Like the 360 the handheld will probably also include a similar blade like interface and yearly updates. I think it's safe to assume it will play music but if they tout it as an iPod killer it will die.
Will it play movies? Yes, but what kind? Definitely MOVs, WMVs and those types but what about Hollywood Movies? Probably but don't expect another proprietary format like the UMD (bad move Sony). They may be working on a downloadable format similar to what Apple is rumored to be doing right now.
What's in a name? I've said in the past (and I was correct) that the Xbox name would be like Nintendo in the fact that it precede the device name (ei. Nintendo DS, Xbox 360).
With that kind of logic we can assume that it will start with Xbox and end with it's own name. Examples, Xbox Orbit, Xbox Orbiter, Xbox Satellite, Xbox Comet, Xbox Radar, Xbox Nucleus (my favorite), Xbox Portable, Xbox OTG (on the go), Xbox TriPod (just kidding), Xbox Hero, Xbox Gauntlet, Xbox Matrix, Xbox Hugo (handheld unlimited gaming online), Xbox UHGO (pronounced "you go" (unlimited handheld gaming online), Xbox Punch, Xbox Sandbox, Xbox Icon, Xbox Thunderbird, Xbox Caffeine, Xbox Micro, Xbox Jammer, Xbox Carbon, OK that's enough.
Robby Bach, if you pick one of my names I get a free handheld, only fair.
Will it browse the web and check your email, probably. Will it have a touch screen, probably not but I think it would be cool if it did or at least a keyboard or virtual keyboard. Anyone who has used the PSP to browse the internet knows what a pain it is without a keyboard.
Will it survive with Arcade games only, not a change. So what else will this thing do? They will give it an awesome gaming engine but i imagine they will through every other feature possible at it to make it compete with the DS, PSP and iPod.
How big will it be? I think it will have a very similar looking screen to the PSP but the device will not be as tall or wide. Mostly due to the lack of a disk drive like the UMD. It could have a removable hard drive though.
If I'm only a little close to some of the specs it will rock. Handheld Halo anyone.
The future of Xbox Live Arcade?
March/26/2006 11:01 PM
Here are my thoughts and a few questions I recently posed to Major Nelson and Ross Erickson.
Now that Xbox Live has been fleshed out into something that can evolve and grow I think we (the Xbox Live gamers) should get some notion that our purchases are not tied to the Xbox 360. I completely understand why games purchased for the original Xbox Live Arcade did not transfer over. From this point forward please allow me to play all purchased games in the Arcade on future versions of the Xbox. If I buy Bejeweled today on the Xbox 360 Arcade I want to be able to play it on all future Xbox consoles. This also promotes the backward compatible model.
I would like to be able to play the arcade games that I've bought for the 360 on the 720 when it comes out. I'm hesitant to spend too much money on Arcade games if I'm really only getting a few years of play out of them. Because we all know that what rocks about the Arcade games is that it's mostly time wasters and simple gameplay fun. These are the type of games that people play forever. They are simple, pretty and accomplish nothing. I think I've spent about $80 so on arcade games. These are the kind of games I want to keep, not upgrade every year.
Now that Arcade is all online (no disk required) and all arcades (future Xbox) from this point forward will follow a similar model I don't think it's to much to ask especially since a lot of these games can be played for free (PC) online.
Answers provided by Ross Erickson, Games Portfolio Manager (Xbox Live Arcade/MSN Games.com).
Q 1. Will I be able to play Xbox Live Arcade games I buy now on future Xbox consoles?
A 1. Given that we just barely shipped the 360 into the marketplace just 5 months ago, and that traditional console lifecycles are 5+ years, it’s a bit premature to start planning and making guarantees about any future console so far in advance, especially in light of the fact that digital distribution of entertainment content is still in its infancy. Our intention is to always provide customers value and new entertainment experiences on any platform like Xbox 360
Q 2. Will I be able to play Xbox Live Arcade games I buy now on future Xbox consoles for free or will I have to pay for an upgrade?
A 2. We haven’t announced (nor would we even discuss for many years) any new console beyond the 360 so this is entirely premature.
Q 3. Will I have to transfer them from my 360 or will I be able to download them?
A 3. Again, you’re getting way ahead of yourself on this. Enjoy the games you bought today for what their worth (mostly $5 and $10).
I know my questions are a bit premature, but they will come up again in the future so I want to thank Ross for taking the time to answer them now.
MY GAMERTAG THEMACJEDI
Who's the underdog? Apple, Microsoft or Sony?
March/26/2006 04:38 PM
It really depends on the product you're talking
about. Here are some scenarios on how each company
is the underdog.
Gaming Consoles: Microsoft, the underdog is doing a good job of making a name for themselves (I love my 360 and loved my Xbox) in the gaming arena. Even with all of their muscle they are still number two, with Sony retaining the number 1 spot. In the current (Next Gen) battle MS has come out of the gate with an awesome showing. How does Sony respond to the lead MS is getting, they don't. They act as most monopolies do, they act as if they aren't worried about MS and pretend to not do things their competitors are doing. Some people think Sony will still win the next console war even thought MS will have had a full year head start. Which is what Sony had during the last console wars.
Operating Systems: Apple, the underdog has a fantastic OS and continues to push the envelope (most of my computers are Macs). Apple will have had the opportunity to release about 5 OS upgrades in the same space MS announced Longhorn renamed it Vista and delayed it until 2007. In the OS market MS is the monopoly they behave the same way Sony behaves in the console market. There Vista OS will come out with many of the features Mac users have been using for years. The same goes for the next Sony console, Sony will come out with feature that Xbox users have been using for years.
Music Players: This would be Apple's monopoly, I think they have about the same market share in this category as Sony had in the previous consoles. So does Apple act different with their monopoly than the other companies, not really. They refuse to open their DRM for other companies and release products on their own timeline as if other companies aren't even competing. MS who has the largest share of OSes installed still can't find a way to use that power to take control of the Music market. In many ways this market should belong to Sony, but they are a monopoly in more ways than one and they were sitting on their hands. So is Sony number 2, nope, that's how bad they messed up.
Now what's really weird is that is that all of these companies work together. Whether is be parts, OSes, Music or technology in general.
My personal bests, I prefer Apple computers, iPods, Xbox 360s and Sony TV's.
Gaming Consoles: Microsoft, the underdog is doing a good job of making a name for themselves (I love my 360 and loved my Xbox) in the gaming arena. Even with all of their muscle they are still number two, with Sony retaining the number 1 spot. In the current (Next Gen) battle MS has come out of the gate with an awesome showing. How does Sony respond to the lead MS is getting, they don't. They act as most monopolies do, they act as if they aren't worried about MS and pretend to not do things their competitors are doing. Some people think Sony will still win the next console war even thought MS will have had a full year head start. Which is what Sony had during the last console wars.
Operating Systems: Apple, the underdog has a fantastic OS and continues to push the envelope (most of my computers are Macs). Apple will have had the opportunity to release about 5 OS upgrades in the same space MS announced Longhorn renamed it Vista and delayed it until 2007. In the OS market MS is the monopoly they behave the same way Sony behaves in the console market. There Vista OS will come out with many of the features Mac users have been using for years. The same goes for the next Sony console, Sony will come out with feature that Xbox users have been using for years.
Music Players: This would be Apple's monopoly, I think they have about the same market share in this category as Sony had in the previous consoles. So does Apple act different with their monopoly than the other companies, not really. They refuse to open their DRM for other companies and release products on their own timeline as if other companies aren't even competing. MS who has the largest share of OSes installed still can't find a way to use that power to take control of the Music market. In many ways this market should belong to Sony, but they are a monopoly in more ways than one and they were sitting on their hands. So is Sony number 2, nope, that's how bad they messed up.
Now what's really weird is that is that all of these companies work together. Whether is be parts, OSes, Music or technology in general.
My personal bests, I prefer Apple computers, iPods, Xbox 360s and Sony TV's.
PS3 and the Sony Hype Machine
March/19/2006 12:36 AM
Sony has started hyping features of the PS3. Sony
is using the "Time heals all wounds" philosophy.
Their PS2 was a huge let down, mostly because of
the claims they made about it's power, that power
was sorely lacking in the finished product. The
Sony Hype Machine was used on the PS2 and it killed
the Sega Dreamcast. Which was a real shame.
I would love to believe them, but they haven't really come through for me. I was there, camping the night the PS2 came out, I sold it less than a year later to fund getting an Xbox. I was very happy with my Xbox. Then I got the PSP, cool for a while but no games and $15-$20 Movie prices were crazy. I sold it less than a year later to fund getting my Xbox 360.
It's funny me being a Mac guy and all that when it comes to Consoles MS is getting a lot right. I will spend money for the better product.
I'm being cautious about the Sony Hype Machine because I don't think it has ever delivered. I can't say that I'm not hopeful, because I am.
I would love to believe them, but they haven't really come through for me. I was there, camping the night the PS2 came out, I sold it less than a year later to fund getting an Xbox. I was very happy with my Xbox. Then I got the PSP, cool for a while but no games and $15-$20 Movie prices were crazy. I sold it less than a year later to fund getting my Xbox 360.
It's funny me being a Mac guy and all that when it comes to Consoles MS is getting a lot right. I will spend money for the better product.
I'm being cautious about the Sony Hype Machine because I don't think it has ever delivered. I can't say that I'm not hopeful, because I am.
Walmart ruined the Xbox 360
November/05/2005 02:40 PM
I heard from a friend last night that Walmart had a
Xbox 360 demo unit. So I thought I would stop by
today and check it out.
I waited behind a kid who was playing the Battlefield 2 demo for about 4 minutes before saying "You almost finished?"
He said "Yes" so I waited patiently. 6 minutes later I said "OK, time to let someone else play." He said "OK" and walked off.
The screen was a nice LCD display but it was 8ft high, so I had to practically look straight up to play and the controller was to low making it uncomfortable to hold.
I checked out some of the menus, games demos and movies before being struck with an instant headache from to position of my neck. I just had to leave.
So there you have it, Walmart ruined the Xbox 360 first impression.
I'm sure I'll be more impressed with my own 360 on the 22nd.
I waited behind a kid who was playing the Battlefield 2 demo for about 4 minutes before saying "You almost finished?"
He said "Yes" so I waited patiently. 6 minutes later I said "OK, time to let someone else play." He said "OK" and walked off.
The screen was a nice LCD display but it was 8ft high, so I had to practically look straight up to play and the controller was to low making it uncomfortable to hold.
I checked out some of the menus, games demos and movies before being struck with an instant headache from to position of my neck. I just had to leave.
So there you have it, Walmart ruined the Xbox 360 first impression.
I'm sure I'll be more impressed with my own 360 on the 22nd.
Yes, my ass was handed to me.
August/26/2005 07:15 PM
Tonight my friend Shawn and I went to EB Games for
a little Halo tourney. I'm 34, Shawn is 38, and we
played a couple of 13 year olds. Shawn and I play
online a lot and we hold our own most of the time.
However, tonight was special because we got
spanked. The time limit didn't even run out before
they had 50 to our 8; I had 5. It was still fun but
OMG we got beat down. There was laughing.
Xbox.com's "I'm Your Lackey Contest"
April/05/2005 10:39 AM
The contest was to find someone to take to E3.
Below was my entry.
This is a great contest... For me to poop on. LOL
Here is why I should be the Xbox.com Apprentice.
Because I'm your Mother and I said so.
Because I'm the only person that can get Gary Coleman to say "Whatchu talkin bout TriXie".
Because Cliffy B needs a pounding for that Pimp Daddy suit.
Because I want to show Bill Gates my new iPod Shuffle.
Because someone needs to tell J. Allard to get lasik.
Because I got some sort of rash from making in the bushes.
Because I want to kick Reggie's ass and take his name.
Because my birthday is April 14th and taxes suck.
Because I want to get Trip Hawkins to sign my 3DO, NOT.
Because I want to meet Nolan Bushnell, that one's for real.
Because my Mom's in the hospital and needs a transplant.
Because I've fallen and I can't get up.
Because I want to travel across the US in a soda can with wings.
Because that which does not kill you, makes you wish you were dead.
Because I have a special hat I want to give to Adam Sessler.
Because Steve Jobs never invites me to MacWorld
Because this will be the best damn E3 ever, with me there.
Because I Love You.
Because of Winn-Dixie.
Just because.
Because you're worth it.
Because I'm beautiful.
Because of possible health risk.
Because my nephew (Stephen) is evolved and beats my ass at Halo every damn time.
My wife (Karen) made this cake for Stephen's 13th birthday, 01/26/2002.
And finally, How many pancakes does it take to cover a doghouse?
None, because there are no bones in ice cream.
Thank you.
This is a great contest... For me to poop on. LOL
Here is why I should be the Xbox.com Apprentice.
Because I'm your Mother and I said so.
Because I'm the only person that can get Gary Coleman to say "Whatchu talkin bout TriXie".
Because Cliffy B needs a pounding for that Pimp Daddy suit.
Because I want to show Bill Gates my new iPod Shuffle.
Because someone needs to tell J. Allard to get lasik.
Because I got some sort of rash from making in the bushes.
Because I want to kick Reggie's ass and take his name.
Because my birthday is April 14th and taxes suck.
Because I want to get Trip Hawkins to sign my 3DO, NOT.
Because I want to meet Nolan Bushnell, that one's for real.
Because my Mom's in the hospital and needs a transplant.
Because I've fallen and I can't get up.
Because I want to travel across the US in a soda can with wings.
Because that which does not kill you, makes you wish you were dead.
Because I have a special hat I want to give to Adam Sessler.
Because Steve Jobs never invites me to MacWorld
Because this will be the best damn E3 ever, with me there.
Because I Love You.
Because of Winn-Dixie.
Just because.
Because you're worth it.
Because I'm beautiful.
Because of possible health risk.
Because my nephew (Stephen) is evolved and beats my ass at Halo every damn time.
My wife (Karen) made this cake for Stephen's 13th birthday, 01/26/2002.
And finally, How many pancakes does it take to cover a doghouse?
None, because there are no bones in ice cream.
Thank you.
Halo 2
November/12/2004 05:55 PM
Allyson's GAME BOY - Part 2
June/21/2004 07:09 PM
Well it turned out the game was very difficult for
her and a little for me.
So after spending some time at Amazon.com reading reviews of GBA games I picked Dora the Explorer, The Search for Pirate Pig's Treasure.
It's been much more enjoyable for her, she's already completed a level and on to the next.
So after spending some time at Amazon.com reading reviews of GBA games I picked Dora the Explorer, The Search for Pirate Pig's Treasure.
It's been much more enjoyable for her, she's already completed a level and on to the next.
Allyson's GAME BOY
June/19/2004 10:29 PM
After working and doing chores for four months she
finally had enough to buy her GBA SP.
You have to remember that she is only 7 and has already bought a dorm fridge that she worked and saved a year for.
So today is her payday (Saturday), and she has enough including tax to buy her GBA SP, I told her several months ago that I would buy her first game when she earned enough to buy the GBA.
She originally wanted a portable DVD player and I said no, but suggested a GBA instead knowing that they have those new GBA Videos out like Dora.
I had a credit at GameStop from returning a game so I thought I would surprise her with a video too.
You know you're a geek when you're proud of your child for being excited about video games, we've played DOA but she mostly liked changing their costumes.
We wanted to show her how to shop for the best price so I chose three stores that were close together to shop at.
We had to go to each store before buying anything, she did very well, she told me that they were all the same price.
When we got home she had acquired a lot of loot.
So Karen and I bought her the Dora GBA Video, a case, headphones, and Lilo and Stitch game. The game got great reviews for a license, which is unusual.
Karen said her first game should be something she's familiar with and I agreed.
At first she watched the video and I was thinking that maybe the game was a little to fast paced for her but after a while she really started to figure stuff out.
She didn't want to put it down, as a geek there's a weird kind of pride in that.
I'm proud of her for buying the GBA SP herself and she's already wanting to save up for other games.
You have to remember that she is only 7 and has already bought a dorm fridge that she worked and saved a year for.
So today is her payday (Saturday), and she has enough including tax to buy her GBA SP, I told her several months ago that I would buy her first game when she earned enough to buy the GBA.
She originally wanted a portable DVD player and I said no, but suggested a GBA instead knowing that they have those new GBA Videos out like Dora.
I had a credit at GameStop from returning a game so I thought I would surprise her with a video too.
You know you're a geek when you're proud of your child for being excited about video games, we've played DOA but she mostly liked changing their costumes.
We wanted to show her how to shop for the best price so I chose three stores that were close together to shop at.
We had to go to each store before buying anything, she did very well, she told me that they were all the same price.
When we got home she had acquired a lot of loot.
So Karen and I bought her the Dora GBA Video, a case, headphones, and Lilo and Stitch game. The game got great reviews for a license, which is unusual.
Karen said her first game should be something she's familiar with and I agreed.
At first she watched the video and I was thinking that maybe the game was a little to fast paced for her but after a while she really started to figure stuff out.
She didn't want to put it down, as a geek there's a weird kind of pride in that.
I'm proud of her for buying the GBA SP herself and she's already wanting to save up for other games.
Halo... From forty miles away.
June/02/2004 07:35 AM
Last night my nephew Stephen and I tested a new
beta of Aquaduct 1.03b for OS X from PostPone.
It was awesome, it really was like we were in the same room playing.
And on top of that Stephen had the bright idea to use iChat for voice messaging and it worked brilliantly.
We voice chatted and played Halo for more than an hour an he lives more than thirty miles from me.
Tips for anybody setting up Aquaduct themselves.
Make sure that both routers are forwarding ports 2041-2046 to the computer that's running the Aquaduct software.
That was our main issue, when we got past it everything worked great. You might want to alternate who hosts to see which setup works the best.
It was awesome, it really was like we were in the same room playing.
And on top of that Stephen had the bright idea to use iChat for voice messaging and it worked brilliantly.
We voice chatted and played Halo for more than an hour an he lives more than thirty miles from me.
Tips for anybody setting up Aquaduct themselves.
Make sure that both routers are forwarding ports 2041-2046 to the computer that's running the Aquaduct software.
That was our main issue, when we got past it everything worked great. You might want to alternate who hosts to see which setup works the best.
At the Mall last night, Xbox, Halo, happy time.
March/31/2004 10:10 PM
It's weird to see people playing games like that at
the Mall.
I went to Texas Roadhouse with Allyson last night and after dinner we walked around the Mall.
There is one wing of the Mall that seems to be the Mom and Pop shop area, and as we were walking down that section there were a bunch of kids standing outside of what used to be a beauty salon.
As we got closer I realized that the doors were closed but people were in there as well and it was very loud. You guessed it, groups of young men playing Halo on a large projection.
Kids were going in and out keeping the doors closed due to the noise.
It was kinda cool to see that.
I went to Texas Roadhouse with Allyson last night and after dinner we walked around the Mall.
There is one wing of the Mall that seems to be the Mom and Pop shop area, and as we were walking down that section there were a bunch of kids standing outside of what used to be a beauty salon.
As we got closer I realized that the doors were closed but people were in there as well and it was very loud. You guessed it, groups of young men playing Halo on a large projection.
Kids were going in and out keeping the doors closed due to the noise.
It was kinda cool to see that.
Silly brain test, you will mess up.
March/14/2004 09:04 PM
Focus, determination and kill.
August/16/2000 08:17 PM
By Rob Jones
What do you get when you mix two brothers, a warm summers afternoon, guns filled with gelatin encapsulated paint and a game of speedball?
Here's the true story.
We were on opposite teams and while their team walked to the other side I just stood up at the end of our field and waited. When Toby got to the other side he saw that I was standing and went to the back of their area and remained standing.
The field layout was rectangular and sloped downward towards the middle between the two teams. Their were lots of obstacles to hide behind.
The Ref says "Go"
Anyone who was still standing ducked behind something or just dropped except for Toby and I. While we were at opposite end of the field we started shooting rounds at each other. By the time the shot reached either of us it had slowed to the point that we would slowly dodge it (like we were in the Matrix).
We realized that we needed to get closer so we began walking down the middle of the field slowly still firing off rounds. People around us were shooting all around but it's as if nothing from them was coming near Toby or myself.
We continued to walk towards each other having fired over 20 twenty rounds each we reached the center of each team area so we slowed our pace and fired more rapidly, neither of us being hit by the other.
At this point other people began to notice us and started firing, I saw Toby take out two people on my team while I continued to shoot at him. At this point we have stopped walking and were now shooting at each other and the other team. I took out one of them while ducking Toby's closest shot yet.
RUN, while Toby was now focused on my team I ran towards the middle of the field and dove behind a piece of wood, when I did I realized I was next to one of the other team, Bam, he was out. Now I focused my efforts on Toby again by this time he had already ducked behind something and I did not know where he was.
Take out the enemy, I started picking off the other team slowly from their own side making sure to watch for Toby so that he would not be the one to take me out. I was now half way up their side and was receiving a lot of enemy fire, one of my team mates took them out.
Find Toby, I got up, Bam, took out another one of them and ran to the end of their side. Where the hell is Toby? Looking around, he's all the way at the other end of the field. His team ended up winning but neither Toby or myself were dead when the timer ran out.
What do you get when you mix two brothers, a warm summers afternoon, guns filled with gelatin encapsulated paint and a game of speedball?
Here's the true story.
We were on opposite teams and while their team walked to the other side I just stood up at the end of our field and waited. When Toby got to the other side he saw that I was standing and went to the back of their area and remained standing.
The field layout was rectangular and sloped downward towards the middle between the two teams. Their were lots of obstacles to hide behind.
The Ref says "Go"
Anyone who was still standing ducked behind something or just dropped except for Toby and I. While we were at opposite end of the field we started shooting rounds at each other. By the time the shot reached either of us it had slowed to the point that we would slowly dodge it (like we were in the Matrix).
We realized that we needed to get closer so we began walking down the middle of the field slowly still firing off rounds. People around us were shooting all around but it's as if nothing from them was coming near Toby or myself.
We continued to walk towards each other having fired over 20 twenty rounds each we reached the center of each team area so we slowed our pace and fired more rapidly, neither of us being hit by the other.
At this point other people began to notice us and started firing, I saw Toby take out two people on my team while I continued to shoot at him. At this point we have stopped walking and were now shooting at each other and the other team. I took out one of them while ducking Toby's closest shot yet.
RUN, while Toby was now focused on my team I ran towards the middle of the field and dove behind a piece of wood, when I did I realized I was next to one of the other team, Bam, he was out. Now I focused my efforts on Toby again by this time he had already ducked behind something and I did not know where he was.
Take out the enemy, I started picking off the other team slowly from their own side making sure to watch for Toby so that he would not be the one to take me out. I was now half way up their side and was receiving a lot of enemy fire, one of my team mates took them out.
Find Toby, I got up, Bam, took out another one of them and ran to the end of their side. Where the hell is Toby? Looking around, he's all the way at the other end of the field. His team ended up winning but neither Toby or myself were dead when the timer ran out.