LIVE Having Problems

Xbox LIVE is experiencing problems to those of you who are lucky enough not to experience them. And the problems are rather big, such as not being able to sign in, problems with matchmaking, and account recovery. While everyone is not affected by this, it is still a widespread problem. Here are the words from Xbox LIVE's Major Nelson:

"You may have noticed that the LIVE service has been having a few issues over the past few days. This includes things like signing in, matchmaking and account recovery. Not everyone has had problems, but I know some of you have and I wanted to give you and update. While the service was never completely offline, problems like this are not acceptable. The entire LIVE team has been working day and night to ensure that you can have a great LIVE experience. While we’re not done yet, I wanted to let you know that things are getting better each hour and that no one on the team is going anywhere until the job is done. Thanks for your patience."

This couldn't occur at a worst time with all the holidays and the millions of people at home wanting to play their games. I first began having trouble the day after Christmas and it has gotten worst since then. I agree that this is totally unacceptable and I hope that somehow they will compensate me and all the others affected by this widespread problem. But what can you expect? Think about all the people trying to log onto LIVE. Millions and millions of them. Just think about what happens to a website when too many people try to access it, it crashes. I expect no different from Xbox LIVE. The thing that upsets me the most is that I can't play any of my .avi files when not connected to Xbox LIVE and I it recongnizes all of my arcade games that I payed for as trials so I can't even play them fully if I'm not connected to Xbox LIVE first.

This Week's VC Update

BUBBLE BOBBLE® (NES®, 1-2 players, Rated E for Everyone, 500 Wii Points): BUBBLE BOBBLE's release in 1986 introduced the two bubble dragons, Bub and Bob, and brand new play mechanics, with players defeating enemies by trapping them in bubbles and then popping them. Although the puzzle-action game can be beaten by clearing all 100 rounds, it also contains secret elements such as not being able to get the "true ending" in single-player mode; hidden commands that lead to secret rounds; and a ton of different items. These elements are some of the game's most memorable and important features. Each round even has different air currents that are not visible, so bubbles rise in unpredictable patterns. Aspects like forcing players to understand and utilize these different patterns while playing help make this a revolutionary game that is fun to play anytime.

Light Crusader™ (Genesis, 1 player, Rated E for Everyone-Animated Violence, 800 Wii Points): Each day, more good townspeople of Green Row have been mysteriously disappearing, and beleaguered King Weeden summons the knight Sir David to investigate. Armed with his wits and his sword, Sir David must find the cause of this strange evil and save the citizens of Green Row before things get any worse. Take the role of the brave knight in this action RPG and get to the bottom of the mysteries of Green Row as you fight enemies, solve puzzles and use your best combination of brains and brawn to save the kingdom.

TOP HUNTER (NEOGEO, 1-2 players, Rated E10+ for Everyone 10 and older-Cartoon Violence, 900 Wii Points): Take on the role of either Roddy or Cathy, bounty hunters in this side-scrolling action game set far in the future when humans have colonized space. But all is not well: Space pirates called the Klaptons are making their way through the galaxies, wiping out peaceful settlements along their path. This disgraceful behavior leads to them having a price on their heads, so now Roddy and Cathy must travel through four distinct worlds on a mission to defeat their leader, Captain Klapton. Both characters have retractable arms-used to grab enemies or other objects in the scenery-that can then be thrown at others to destroy them. Also, be on the lookout for rings or levers to pull, as this might reveal special bonuses. Further adding to the mix, the game uses a unique system where the action happens on two planes, with the player switching between them at will. Can you prove yourself worthy of the Top Hunter name and help save the universe?

New Releases: Week of 12/30

Title	Platform		Genre			Release Date
Classic British Motor Racing	WII		Driving			Dec 31, 2007
Kawasaki 4X4 Quad Bikes	WII		Driving			Dec 31, 2007
Monster Trux: Offroad	WII		Driving			Dec 31, 2007

[From GameSpot]

Today's PSN Update

No new updates for this week's PLAYSTATION Network, obviously it seems that Sony thinks last week's update was enough.

This Week's XBLA Release

Content: SpongeBob Underpants!
Price: 800 Microsoft Points Availability: Canada & United States Dash Text: [ESRB: E (EVERYONE) COMIC MISCHIEF, MILD CARTOON VIOLENCE] Single Player, Xbox LIVE Multiplayer 2-4, Local Multiplayer 2-4, HD (High Definition). SpongeBob SquarePants Underpants Slam! is a fast-paced, side-scrolling multiplayer slapstick collect ‘em-up set deep in the sea. A Royal Laundry shipment of Neptune, Lord of the Sea's undergarments, has been spread across the sea bottom by an incredibly powerful storm current! Neptune has called upon the commonfish to collect his lost undergarments and fix this ‘delicate’ situation. He’s offered a bounteous reward to the sea creature who collects the most bloomers! There are no refunds for this item. For more information, see www.xbox.com/Live/accounts.

[From Major Nelson]

This Week's VC Update

BLADES OF STEEL™ (NES®, 1-2 players, Rated E for Everyone-Mild Violence, 500 Wii Points): With stick in hand and confidence brimming, you are looking to bring home the cup, win the MVP award, get on the covers of major sports magazines and date a beautiful model (not necessarily in that order). But soon you will learn that, in this league, nothing is ever given to you, and before you can reach your goals, you'll have to put the puck in the net and score some. You'll need both the artful skills of a finesse player and the bone-crushing brutality of an enforcer. Defend your own goal against unrelenting power plays, or put the pressure on your opponent's goalie and try a slap shot of your own. Don't forget to defend yourself when anger flares because the gloves come off and fists start flying. So strap on blades of steel and prepare to either make a name for yourself or be put on ice.

Donkey Kong Country 3: Dixie Kong's Double Trouble™ (Super NES®, 1-2 players, Rated E for Everyone, 800 Wii Points): Revisit Donkey Kong Island and join the Kong family for their latest adventure. The Kremlings have a mysterious new leader named KAOS and are up to their usual mischief, even capturing Donkey Kong and Diddy Kong. Now it's up to Dixie Kong and the newest Kong, a giant infant named Kiddy, to rescue the two missing apes. They'll travel across previously unseen parts of the island in their search, and even take to the skies in a rocket at one point. Lucky for them, Dixie and Kiddy's powers complement each other (including Kiddy's talent for rolling like a barrel), so they form a powerful team capable of major Kremling damage. They're not completely on their own, either, since returning favorites like Funky Kong and Enguarde the swordfish provide help along the way. And in a series known for its abundance of secrets and high replay value, this entry doesn't disappoint, with enough hours of game play to satisfy Donkey Kong himself. Anyone else have a sudden urge for some bananas?

Rolling Thunder™ 2 (Genesis, 1-2 players, Rated E for Everyone-Violence, 800 Wii Points): In this follow-up to the original classic, you are once again a member of Interpol's Rolling Thunder task force, and it's up to you to stop the return of the evil Geldra organization. Now known as Neo-Geldra and led by a newcomer named Gimdo, the bad guys are bent on destroying several valuable outer-space satellites. In this one- or two-player game, you can play as Leila or Albatross-both characters from the original-as you venture through several different levels, trying to put a stop to the nefarious efforts of Gimdo and the rest of Neo-Geldra. Use your bullets wisely and make Rolling Thunder proud.

Hilarious TF2 Video (NSFW)

Here is a hilarious video that some people made from The Orange Box's Team Fortress 2. Warning it does contain STRONG language. Fast forward to about 4 min in to really get to the funny stuff. Yeah, I know the people doing this are a bunch of douches, but it is still funny as long as it doesn't happen to you I suppose.

New Releases: Week of 12/23

With all the holidays around there is NO new releases this week. Everyone have a great holiday and catch back up with all the pre-holiday video game boom.

Rainbow Six Vegas 2 Details

After seeing that disappointing trailer at the Spike VGA's we finally have some details about the game other than it is obviously in Vegas. From the Official Press Release:

• More Multiplayer - The highly acclaimed multiplayer mode in Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Vegas has been upgraded to include 13 new maps with more intense face-offs, two new adversarial modes, more rewards, and easier access to matches using the improved and intuitive matchmaking system.

• Unprecedented Customizable Experience - Create your own identity that persists through both the single player and multiplayer modes and progresses along with you. Reap the benefits of your single player rewards in multiplayer and vice versa.

• Vastly Improved Co-op Mode - Turn single player mode into co-op mode at any time, just by jumping into the game. Now you and a friend can jump into a single player game and assist without any change to the story. The single player maps and storyline were created with co-op in mind, meaning every map has multiple entry points and the story is unaffected.

• Challenging AI - The AI is more challenging than ever. Now, the terrorists are equipped with thermal vision, night vision, and shields - not to mention a multitude of varying tactics - all of which are guaranteed to give you a new playing experience every time you go into battle. As you progress within the game, you'll be able to outsmart your enemies by taking advantage of intelligence opportunities, such as thermal scanning.

• New Weapons and Armor - Take down the terrorists more effectively using 11 new weapons. New camouflage, clothing and gear allow for the ultimate customizations.

• More Vegas - Sin City is back and bigger than before. Explore all new Vegas hot spots and the gritty back streets creating a visual experience that is as challenging as it is breathtaking.

You can expect Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Vegas 2 in stores March of 2008.

Microsoft & Viacom Bringing More to 360

Microsoft and Viacom have announced an advertising and content sharing deal estimated at over a half-billion dollars that will bring even more content from MTV, MTV 2, VH1, Comedy Central, and Spike. The content specifically in question is MTV's "Cribs".

[From CNN]

Holiday Deals Galore!

There seems to be several deals out there today just in time for yourself or that special someone for the holidays. Here is a list of several (click the links to visit the page):

ALL PopCap Games on Sale 50% Off

Microsoft Racing Wheel $99

Amazon Save up to 50% Sale

I highly recommend you check these sites out, there is a lot of great deals out there. Any other gaming deals you know of? Leave a comment or send me an E-mail.

Today's PSN Update

Games
Toy Home ($9.99)
Snakeball ($9.99)
Snakeball Demo (free)
Trials of Topoq ($4.99) - requires the PlayStation Eye
Mesmerize: Distort ($1.99)
BlackSite: Area 51 Demo (free)

Expansions and Add-ons
Warhawk: Omega Dawn ($7.99)
Folklore Holiday Add-On (free)
MotorStorm Holiday Skin (free)
Guitar Hero III Add-On (free) - Contains "We Three Kings"
High Stakes on the Vegas Strip: Poker Edition Add-On 1 (free) - Adds three game types: Omaha, Pineapple and Crazy Pineapple
High Stakes on the Vegas Strip: Poker Edition Add-On 2 (free) - Adds two game types: 5 Card Draw and 7 Card Stud
Rock Band Add-Ons ($1.99 each) - "Brass in Pocket" by The Pretenders, "Buddy Holly" by Weezer" and "My Iron Lung" by Radiohead

Game Videos
Devil May Cry 4 "Final" Trailer
Gran Turismo 5 Prologue Trailer
PlayStation 3 "Universe of Entertainment"
PlayStation 3 "Only On"
PSP "Features"
Tony Hawk's Proving Ground "Mike V's Skater Story" Trailer
Turok - Gameplay Vignette #3 Dino Mauling
Uncharted: Drake's Fortune "Facial Animation"
Warhawk Omega Dawn Trailer

Movie Trailers
Strange Wilderness
Shakira Oral Fixation Tour (Blu-ray)

Themes and Wallpapers
Warhawk Theme
PAIN Cookie Theme
PAIN Santa Theme
High Stakes on the Vegas Strip: Poker Edition Wallpaper

[From Kotaku]

This Week's XBLA Release

Content: TEMPEST
Price: 400 Microsoft Points
Availability: Not available in Australia, Japan, Korea and New Zealand
Dash Text: [ESRB: E (EVERYONE)] Single Player, HD (High Definition). The blaster is back! There are no refunds for this item. For more information, see www.xbox.com/Live/accounts.

Content: Sensible World of Soccer
Price: 800 Microsoft Points
Availability: Not available in Japan
Dash Text: [ESRB: E (EVERYONE)] Single Player, Xbox LIVE Multiplayer 1-2, Local Multiplayer 1-2, HD (High Definition). Sensible World of Soccer is the classic 90’s football game reborn with enhanced graphics! Take on your friends online now in this fantastic pick up and play football game. Play a quick game, or manage your team over a full season with a fully immersive tactics editor.This game uses technology of Massive Incorporated ("Massive") that enables in-game advertising. Massive may collect your Internet protocol address and other anonymous information for the purposes of transmitting and measuring in-game advertising. Massive does not store or use this information for discovering your identity. Please see Massive's privacy policy: http://www.massiveincorporated.com/site_network/privacy.htm. Trademarks and copyrighted material in in-game advertising are the property of the respective owners. There are no refunds for this item. For more information, see www.xbox.com/Live/accounts.

Edit: This game has been pulled. I’ll post an update when it is available again. In the meantime, if you downloaded this busted version, please delete it and when the new one is available you’ll be able to downloaded it again (at no charge if you purchased it.) While you do that, I’ll go yell at some folks for letting this happen. Apologies and the moment the proper version is available I’ll update this post.

[From Major Nelson]

PS3/ PSP Update Brings Much More

The latest PS3 firmware 2.10 adds many features to the PS3 :

Voice Changer

The Voice Changer feature has been added to the voice/video chat. This feature will allow you to change your tone of voice through the microphone. High and low-pitched tones can be adjusted to five preset levels.



Video

DivX and VC-1 (WMV) have been added to the types of files that can be played. In order to play WMV files, you'll need to access Settings/System Settings/ and then enable EMA playback. Copyright-protected files or files that were encoded by using DivX 3.11 cannot be played. Also, files that are 2GB or more cannot be played.

It also appears that you can play AVI files by simply renaming it from .AVI to .divx on the file. This is simple and very easy.

Blu-ray Disc Profile 1.1 is now supported. This will allow for new features such as playback of two videos at the same time with 1.1 compatible BluRay discs. This feature will vary pending the BluRay disc.

BD Data Utility has been added.



Music
PS3 owners can now select [Type 3] as an option under Settings/ Music Settings/ Bitmapping. This upgrade will allow for enhanced audio playback.

But combined with the latest PSP Update, 3.80, creates something very very cool . Remember that remote play thing Sony added months ago? And thinking why would I want to access my PS3 on my PSP? Well here is the answer. With the latest firmware 3.80 on the PSP you will be able to play PS One games via Remote Play. This will work with PS One downloaded games and disc games. For a list of everything you can and can't do with PSP Remote Play check out the Playstation Message Boards.

EA giving FREE game to Broken Rock Band Owners

Are you one of the many people who had to send in your only Rock Band guitar because the strum button broke? Well EA would like to send out its deepest apologizes for preventing you from getting your rock on by giving you a FREE game. To take advantage of this offer you must send in your pick by Jan. 11, 2008. Here is the list of games: (click to enlarge)

Saint's Row 2 Details Emerge

The GTA copy cat is becoming more and more of a threat to the GTA franchise. Saint's Row 2 will include new vehicles such as airplanes, helicopters, motorbikes, jet skis, and speed boats that will include upgrades for most. The city will also include interiors to many of the buildings and is 45% larger than the previous Saint's Row game. There will also be tons of customization options so you can make your character look like who you want them to be. You will be able to dual wield guns, use hostages as "human shields", and rip items from the environment. The game will also feature an online co-op mode similar to Crackdown where both players can interact and complete missions and side quests together. No word on the release date, but is thought to be late 2008.

[From Gameplayer]

E3 Coming Back to L.A.

Yes, it is confirmed E3 will no longer take place in Santa Monica, but instead back to L.A. where it was originally. This comes after there were many complaints of walking long distances to make appointments by the press. Next year's event will take place on July 15-17 in the Los Angeles Convention Center. Don't get too happy, this is by no means the "old" E3 there will still be NO booth babes and will be invitation ONLY.

[From Kotaku]

This Week's VC Update

Cybernator (SNES, 1 player, rated E 10+ for Everyone 10 and Older - Mild Fantasy Violence, 800 Wii Points): It is the near future. Resources are dwindling, and the major powers of the world are in dispute over territory. Pilot the Cybernator G5-E for the 95th brigade of the mechanized marines and throw yourself into the war. Get briefed before each mission to confirm your targets, and then do your best to clear each of the seven stages, freely using the suit's equipped tools and four types of weaponry. By collecting the "power chips" left by defeated enemies, it is also possible to reinforce each weapon up to a maximum of three levels. It is left to your judgment as to whether to reinforce a specific weapon or to power up all weapons simultaneously, adding a bit of strategy to the nonstop action. The powerful background music, military-like atmosphere (look for bullet marks on the walls and the strained communication during combat) and intense story development combine to give the world of Cybernator a gritty, sci-fi feel that you won't soon forget.

Alien Storm� (Sega Genesis, 1-2 players, rated E 10+ for Everyone 10 and Older - Mild Fantasy Violence, 800 Wii Points): Shape-shifting aliens have infiltrated the city, creating chaos and panic! Fortunately, a trio of heroes called the Alien Busters has agreed to wipe out the invading creatures. The members of the team wield their own special attacks, and they unload a world of hurt on the Martian menaces from the city streets to the mother ship. Gordon, a tough guy with a bazooka, has a special gunship attack, while Karla has a flamethrower for alien crisping, though she prefers to use her special ballistic-missile attack. Finally, Slammer the robot can self-destruct at will and attacks the intruders with an electric whip and other devices. Take the aliens by storm and save your city.

Monster Lair (TurboGrafx16 CD-ROM, 1-2 players, rated E for Everyone - Mild Cartoon Violence, 800 Wii Points): Join young Adam and Laura as they embark on a fantastic adventure in this comical action/shooting game. Featuring beautiful music brought to life by the power of the CD-ROM, the game consists of 14 rounds packed with cute monster enemies. Players can either play alone as Adam (or play with a friend controlling Laura) as they battle their way through round after round. The first half of each round is the action scene, where players must avoid obstacles and pits. Use your Power Boost weapons against enemies and restore your Life Force with food as you head for the gate at the end. The second half is the exhilarating shooting scene, where players must shoot down flying enemies. Take out the boss at the end to clear the round and move to the next one.

Comments/Suggestions Page

This page is dedicated to suggestions and/or comments about the site. Feel free to post anything relvant about the site that you may think I should do to improve the site, any new features that I could add, any new topics you think I should cover, etc. Just leave a comment on this post and I will read them and take them all into consideration. Remember this is OUR site not just mine.

New Releases: Week of 12/16

Title	Platform	Genre	Release Date
Atari Classics Evolved	PSP	Action	Dec 18, 2007
Carrier Strike Force	PC	Simulation	Dec 17, 2007
Dai Senryaku VII: Exceed	PS2	Strategy	Dec 17, 2007
Draft Day Sports: College Basketball	PC	Simulation	Dec 18, 2007
Indianapolis 500 Legends	DS	Driving	Dec 19, 2007
Legends of Norrath: Forsworn	PC	Puzzle	Dec 18, 2007
Luxor: Pharaoh's Challenge	DS	Puzzle	Dec 18, 2007
Luxor: Pharaoh's Challenge	PSP	Puzzle	Dec 18, 2007
MX vs. ATV Untamed	DS	Driving	Dec 17, 2007
MX vs. ATV Untamed	PS3	Driving	Dec 17, 2007
MX vs. ATV Untamed	X360	Driving	Dec 17, 2007
MX vs. ATV Untamed	PS2	Driving	Dec 17, 2007
MX vs. ATV Untamed	PSP	Driving	Dec 17, 2007
NeoGeo Battle Coliseum	PS2	Action	Dec 17, 2007
NiGHTS: Journey of Dreams	WII	Action	Dec 18, 2007
Rock Band	PS2	Puzzle	Dec 18, 2007
Sensible World of Soccer	X360	Sports	Dec 19, 2007
Warhammer 40,000: Squad Command	DS	Strategy	Dec 17, 2007

[From Gamespot]

Call of Duty 4: MW Patch and Playlist Details

Here is the huge list of all the changes coming to COD 4: MW sometime this month of December. This includes the PS3 and Xbox 360 versions. The playlist changes will occur at a later time separate from the patch.

Multiplayer Playlist Changes:

The multiplayer playlists in Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare are always evolving based on community feedback and stats we track behind the scenes. We're focused on constantly keeping the game fresh and tweaking it based on your feedback, so expect the following Playlist changes to be hitting soon:

Team Deathmatch

* Map Added to Rotation: Showdown - now available in map rotation.

Mercenary Team Deathmatch

* Brand New Playlists: No Clans / Parties allowed.
* Players who don't want to be matchmade with clans (or people in parties) can team up with fellow lone wolves and play some TDM.

Free-for-All

* Map Added to Rotation: Showdown - now available in map rotation.
* Score Limit Change: 100 Points

Domination

* Map Added to Rotation: Ambush - now available in map rotation.
* Map Added to Rotation: Bloc- now available in map rotation.
* Map Added to Rotation: Pipeline - now availalbe in map rotation.

Ground War

* No changes.

Sabatoge

* Map Added to Rotation: Showdown - now available in map rotation.

Headquarters

* Map Added to Rotation: Ambush - now available in map rotation.
* Map Added to Rotation: Bloc- now available in map rotation.
* Map Added to Rotation: Pipeline - now availalbe in map rotation.

Search and Destroy

* Map Added to Rotation: Showdown - now available in map rotation.

Team Tactical

* Map Added to Rotation: Ambush - now available in map rotation.
* Map Added to Rotation: Bloc- now available in map rotation.
* Map Added to Rotation: Pipeline - now availalbe in map rotation.

Hardcore Team Deathmatch

* Brand New Playlist: 100% Hardcore Team Deathmatch Only
* No longer switched between Hardcore Search and Destroy and Hardcore Team Deathmatch
* Map Added to Rotation: Showdown - now available in map rotation.

Hardcore Search and Destroy

* Brand New Playlist: 100% Hardcore Search and Destroy Only
* No longer switched between Hardcore Search and Destroy and Hardcore Team Deathmatch
* Map Added to Rotation: Showdown - now available in map rotation.

Old School

* Rule Set Change: Free-for-All Only w/ Old School Rules
* Increased Health (slightly)
* No Health Re-gen
* Score Limit Change: 100 points
* Map Added to Rotation: Showdown - now available in map rotation.

Cage Match

* Rule Set Change: No Longer Old School Mode
* 1 v 1: Normal Rules
* Map Added to Rotation: Countdown - now availalbe in map rotation
* Map Added to Rotation: District - now available in map rotation

Oldcore

* Playlist Removed

Team Objective

* Playlist Removed
* All gametypes included now available individually.

Upcoming Patch Updates (Seperate from above Playlist changes):

Addition of Host Migration

* If Host of lobby leaves, all players will be deposited back to the lobby where next best host will be selected before new game restarts. Players will no longer be kicked out of game entirely.

Improved Network Performance For Larger Games

* 18 player games now require more bandwidth to host, resulting in smoother performance for players.

Optimized Server Selection for First Match

* Server selection is now optimized to select best bandwidth servers associated by LSP.

Updated Spectator "Chase Cam"

* Change Spectator Mode: Switch between First Person and Third Person.
* 360 Degree rotation around character you're spectating.

Fixed "Playlist Older Than Host" Error

* Player will no longer get error when entering games.

Optimized Corrupt Create-a-Class Handling

* Players will no longer be kicked from game when their create-a-class data is corrupted.

Added Kill Cam To Everything

* Kill Cam view Added: Air Strike Bombs (Follows bomb from plane to target)
* Kill Cam view Added: Grenades (Follows frag from hand to ground, then rotates to view target)
* Kill Cam view Added: RPGs (Follows RPG from launch to target)
* Kill Cam view Added: M203 Rounds (Follows round from launcher to target)
* Kill Cam view Added: Claymores (Views from behind claymore until explosion)
* Kill Cam view Added: C4 Packs (View from pack rotating to watch target)
* Kill Cam view Added: Martrdom (View from grenade rotating to watch target)

Optimized Old School Experience

* Added Unlimited Sprint
* Doubled Magazine Size
* Added Ragdoll Cam

Additional Start Spawn Locations in All Maps

* Added a minimum of 9 extra start spawns on each side of all maps.

Optimized Sniper Rifle / ACOG Scope Accuracy

* Sniper Rifles and ACOG scope accuracy improved due to fix.

Fixed Weapon Sprint Bug

* Bug which gave players more sprint when using particular weapons.

[From Fourzerotwo]

Site Update [Update]

Hello readers,

As you can see I am improving the site from the standard template blog to a more customizable one. Here is a list of everything I have added so far:

• RSS support for most readers
  
• Bookmarking support (digg, stumbleupon, del.icio.us, and more)
• Current top 5 Amazon bestselling games
• Polls to be done regularly
• A dedicated search for the entire blog
• Changed the archive to monthly
• Added Contact Email link
  
• Other misc. features
  

That is everything that I have added so far, and while all this stuff may be great, it is intended for all of you reading the site. Without you all this stuff is useless. So any ideas out there to improve the site are welcome and if anything I have added made the site worse just let me know and I will do my best to fix it. I also wanted to say if there are any particular questions out there for the polls that you want me to ask, send me and email so I can put them up. I was also thinking about the poll time period and I think I might make it a weekly thing if all of you participate. Sorry about the weekend posts there are very few things that happen over the weekend, but send me some feedback on some things you would like me to write about (I would like to include you guys in some things, maybe the current games your playing or asking your opinion on specific issues), and I will do my best. I am also working on a site logo to put up, but haven't found something I liked as of yet. Remember send me an E-mail or leave a comment. I want to make this OUR site not just mine.

-Patrick

[Update - 7/1/09]

I have moved some things around and changed the blog over to a 3 column layout which will hopefully help with readability. I have also added:

• Current Video Game Breaking News
• Latest Video Game Deals
• Latest Metacritic Game Scores
• Games I'm playing
• Recent Comments from you
• Suggest A Post feature makes it even easier to add feedback
  
• Donate button
  

If there are anymore ideas for the site just let me know in the comments.

WikipediaWictionaryChambers (UK)Google imagesGoogle defineThe Free DictionaryJoin exampleWordNetGoogleUrban DictionaryAnswers.comrhymezone.comMerriam-WebsterAmazon

Guitar Hero III Patch Released

Guitar Hero® III: Legends of Rock Update Is Live For Xbox 360 Worldwide and PS3 North America!!

Neversoft and Activision/RedOctane have been working hard on a free update for Guitar Hero III, which is available now on the Xbox 360 Worldwide and PS3 North America! The PS3 European and Australian update has been submitted to Sony, and we will provide further updates as soon as they become available.

The update to Guitar Hero III game will include the following updates, and can be accessed by playing the game while connected to Xbox Live or Sony PSN.

* Improve Online Quick Match results and reduce "Failed to Connect to Server" messages.

* Introduce calibration screen improvements, helping users with high lag AV systems, and Playstation 3 users with Dolby Digital enabled.

* Add the Co-Op Quickplay mode for Playstation 3 users.

* Enable the Hyperspeed cheat to work in online games.

* Include various stability improvements and fixes.

As this update is rolled out, we look forward to hearing back from the community on how it works for you, so that we can continue to give you the best play experience possible.

Thanks again for playing!

[From Guitar Hero]

GameStop/Nintendo Promises Wiis

On December 20th and 21st, hopeful Wii-owners will be able to pre-purchase a Wii at their local GameStop for guaranteed deliver by the end of January. $250 gets you the promise of a Wii by the end of next month, which for gamers who've been trying to get their hands on the system since its release a year ago should be more than enough of a Christmas present. Mind you that Reggie specified the offer is only good while supplies last, and while he assures us that there are "tens of thousands" of rain checks available it still most likely won't be enough.

[From Kotaku]

November NPD Sales (North America)

Top 10 software sales:

1) Call of Duty 4 (360) - 1.57 million
2) Super Mario Galaxy - 1.12 million
3) Assassin's Creed (360) - 980,000
4) Guitar Hero III (PS2) - 967,000
5) Wii Play (incl Wii Remote) - 564,000
6) Mass Effect - 473,000
7) Call of Duty 4 (PS3) - 444,000
8) Guitar Hero III (Wii) - 426,000
9) Halo 3 - 387,000
10) Assassin's Creed (PS3) - 377,000

Console sales:

Nintendo DS - 1.53 million
Nintendo Wii - 981,000
Xbox 360 - 770,000
PlayStation Portable - 567,000
PlayStation 2 - 496,000
PlayStation 3 - 466,000

[From Kotaku]

Today's PSN Update

Games
Burnout Paradise Demo (free)

Add-ons and Expansions
Rock Band Punk Pack 1 ($5.49) - Contains "I Fought the Law" by The Clash, "Rockaway Beach" by The Ramones and "Ever Fallen in Love" as made famous by The Buzzcocks. Each is available separately for $1.99.
High Velocity Bowling "Amber" bowler ($0.99)
High Velocity Bowling "Mike" bowler ($0.99)
Need For Speed ProStreet Ultimate Bundle ($9.99) - Unlocks every performance package
Need For Speed ProStreet Muscle Car Bundle ($4.99) - Unlocks six muscle cars
Need For Speed ProStreet Sports Car Bundle ($4.99) - Unlocks six sports cars
Need For Speed ProStreet Tuner Car Bundle ($2.49) - Unlocks six tuner cars
Need For Speed ProStreet Lamborghini Murcielago ($2.49) - Unlocked!
Need For Speed ProStreet Nissan GT-R (R35) ($2.99) - Unlocked!
Need For Speed ProStreet Pagini Zonda F ($2.99) - Unlocked!

Game Videos
Gran Turismo Awards At SEMA
Ratchet & Clank Future Behind the Scenes - Art
Tony Hawk's Proving Ground - Tony's Skater Story
Burnout Paradise "Stunt Run"

Movie Trailers
Untraceable - He's hacked into my car!
Cloverfield

Sony Announces Early '08 Lineup

PS3/PSN

• MLB 08: The Show (PS3) - Spring 08
• Hot Shots Golf 5 (PS3) - March 08
• Wipeout HD (PSN) - Early 08
• Rat Race (PSN) - Winter 07/08
• echochrome (PSN) - Q1 2008
• Gran Turismo 5: Prologue (PS3/PSN) - Q1 2008
• PixelJunk Monsters (PSN) - January 08

PSP

• MLB 08: The Show
• Patapon - February 08
• Wipeout Pulse - Q1 2008
• Pursuit Force Extreme Justice - January 08
• Secret Agent Clank - Q1 2008
• God of War: Chains of Olympus - March 08

PS2

• MLB 08: The Show - Q1 2008
• Twisted Metal Head On - Spring 08
• SingStar 90's - Q1 2008
• Buzz! The Hollywood Quiz - March 08
• Buzz! Jr.: Robo Jam - March 08

[From Gamepro]

MS Points, Why Can't They Be Even?

If your like almost anyone else you go and buy MS Points so you can download movies, gamerpics, themes, or XBLA games, but there is just one problem with that. You buy this big bundle, and you buy your stuff then some how you get stuck with 40 extra points. 40 points that you can' t spend on anything because it is not enough. So why can't we just get the points we need? Why have all this "loose change"? Xbox 360 Group Manager Aaron Greenberg answers this question:

"The reason why we do that, the core reason, is around credit card transaction fees. If we do this in bulk, we don't have to burden the consumer with the transaction fees, or ourselves or publishers."

He also added that it is annoying to end up with leftover points, but Microsoft doesn't plan on changing this anytime soon.

[From Xbox 360 Fanboy]

X-Play Xpands Xpertise

Everyone knows the daily G4 TV show X-Play, hosted by Morgan Webb and Adam Sessler. Today they announced that X-Play is going to expand its topics from video game reviews only, to sneak peaks, tips and tricks, interviews, game demos, analysis, X-Play gamer challenges and gaming news starting January 14th, 2008.

This Week's XBLA Release

Content: GripShift
Price: 800 Microsoft Points
Availability: Not available in India Size: 147.78 MB
Dash Text: [ESRB: E10+ (EVERYONE 10+) MILD VIOLENCE] Single Player, Xbox LIVE Multiplayer 2-4, HD (High Definition). Buy now to experience high-flying platform gaming combined with extreme stunt driving action in GripShift! Test your reflexes and bend your brain as you stunt your way through 120 insane, twisting Challenge Mode levels. Or deploy an arsenal of funky weapons and go head-to-head across 25 Race Mode tracks and 20 Deathmatch arenas. GripShift is a gravity-defying thrill ride you need to own today! There are no refunds for this item. For more information, see www.xbox.com/live/accounts.

Content: Arkadian Warriors
Price: 800 Microsoft Points
Availability: Not available in l regions except India, Japan, Korea
Dash Text: [ESRB: E10+ (EVERYONE 10 +) FANTASY VIOLENCE, MILD BLOOD] Single Player, Xbox LIVE Multiplayer 1-2, Local Multiplayer 1-2, HD (High Definition). Define your legacy young Arkadian Warrior - Defeat the evil Gorgon herself as soldier, archer or sorceress and return the land of Arkadia back to it's people. Unlock the full game now. There are no refunds for this item. For more information, see www.xbox.com/Live/accounts.

[From Major Nelson]

Halo 3 Heroic Map Pack Out NOW!

Content: Halo 3 Heroic Map Pack Price: 800 Microsoft Points Availability: Not available in India Dash Text: [ESRB: M (Mature) BLOOD AND GORE,MILD LANGUAGE,VIOLENCE] The Heroic map pack contains three new maps, each presenting a totally different play style. Standoff’s symmetrical valley, with its entrenched bases and fields of boulders is ideal for mid-sized objective and Slayer game types, while Rat’s Nest’s vast, labyrinthine passages bring something quite new to the Halo multiplayer experience – an indoor vehicle paradise, strongly influenced by the Campaign mode ideal for big team battles. Finally, Foundry is the ultimate Forge map – players can edit every single object in this voluminous industrial warehouse, place stairways, walls, bridges and tunnels to create an entirely new play space and build almost any kind of map they can think of. There are no refunds for this item. More details at Bungie.net.

[From Major Nelson]

Wii Firmware Update, Photo Channel Upgrade

Ah, the subtle blue glow on the Wii. I don't get to see you much, but when I do I know something is up. Last night Nintendo released a Wii firmware update that adds on the gifting feature to the Wii shopping channel that allows you to buy a virtual console game or WiiWare game and give it to a friend. Along with the update is a new updated Photo Channel which takes away MP3 support and replaces it with AAC, upgrading to the new Photo Channel is optional and not required for the firmware update.

P.S.- Both are FREE

This Week's VC Update

Later in the day on Monday, Nintendo will make your holiday shopping just a little bit easier. If some people on your gift list have visions of classic video games dancing in their heads, you're in luck. Starting this week, Wii Shop Channel patrons can use a new Gifting feature to send games to other Wii owners with whom they've traded Friend Codes. It's an easy and inexpensive way to give your fellow Nintendo buffs the gift of a classic game - no wrapping paper required. And don't worry about duplication. If your friend already has the game you're trying to give, you'll get a simple message and be bumped back into the catalog to continue shopping.

Pokemon Snap (Nintendo 64, 1 player, Rated E for Everyone, 1,000 Wii Points): As one of the most unique games in a renowned series, Pokemon Snap was the first truly 3-D Pokemon game and introduced the phenomenon to the Nintendo 64. Travel to Pokemon Island and meet Professor Oak to begin a safari, taking the best possible photographs of 63 different Pokemon as they exist in the wild, undisturbed by humans. This is not as easy as it sounds�the island has many types of climates and environments to explore, along with secret activities and hidden passages to discover. Plus, some of the Pokemon can be a little shy and won't pose for the camera unless you tease them with special items. After you're done, submit one picture of each Pokemon to Professor Oak, and he'll judge it based on size, pose, technique and number of Pokemon captured.

Ghosts'n Goblins (NES, 1-2 players, Rated E for Everyone�Mild Animated Violence, 500 Wii Points): Ghosts'n Goblins was a popular arcade game before it made the leap to the NES in 1986. Like later games in the series, Ghosts'n Goblins presents quite a challenge to players brave enough to take on the role of Arthur and delve into the realm of demons and monsters to rescue the kidnapped princess. Choose your weapons wisely and take advantage of their strengths to deal with the situation at hand. Pass through the six gates that stand between you and Astaroth, and teach him a lesson in chivalry he'll never forget. Demonstrating a high level of technical prowess for a game of its era, Ghosts'n Goblins presents a unique and unforgettable universe. The stage for adventure is set. Are you up to the test?

BASEBALL STARS 2 (NEOGEO, 1-2 players, Rated E for Everyone, 900 Wii Points): Lace up your cleats and step onto the diamond with the pros of BASEBALL STARS 2. You'll find everything you'd expect in a classic game of baseball, but with an arcade feel and intense action that distinguish it from the pack. Pick one of six unique teams from cities around the world, then get ready for nine innings of excitement, whether you're taking on the computer in a 15-game tournament or squaring off against a friend. There are two modes of game play, so even the most inexperienced player can compete at the major-league level (with a little computer-aided fielding). Watch as the game develops through split-screen views and close-up shots worthy of any highlight film, and see if you can catch the numerous over-the-top animations of the large and detailed player models. Think you have what it takes to win the pennant?

Spike Video Game Awards 2007 Winners

For the people out there who didn't watch the VGA's this year or who just didn't want to watch, here is the list of winners from the 2007 Spike Video Game Awards:

Game of Year- Bioshock

Best Shooter- Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare

Best Action Game- Super Mario Galaxy

Best Rhythm Game- Rock Band

Best RPG- Mass Effect

Best Driving Game- DiRT

Best Military Game- Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare

Studio of the Year- Harmonix

Best Graphics- Crysis

Breakthrough Technology- Portal

Best PS3 Game- Ratchet and Clank Future: Tools of Destruction

Best Wii Game- Super Mario Galaxy

Best 360 Game- Bioshock

Best PC Game- The Orange Box

Best Individual Sports Game- Skate

Best Team Sports Game- Madden '08

Best Handheld Game- The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass

Best Game Based on TV Show or Movie- The Simpson's Game

Best Soundtrack- Rock Band

Best Original Score- Bioshock

Best Multiplayer Game- Halo 3

Most Addictive Game Fueled by Dew- Halo 3

Game MUST haves of 2007

With the holidays coming around quick there's no need to panic. Here's a list of this year's holiday game must haves that won't disappoint for each console. Want to find out more about the game? Click the name. And don't forget parents, check the rating on the box BEFORE you buy the game for your child, don't blame the game companies for your ignorance. Any games I missed? Feel free to post a comment.

PS3
Ratchet and Clank Future: Tools of Destruction- Are you a fan of Ratchet and Clank? Then buy this game, that's all that's to it.

Uncharted: Drake's Fortune - Do you own a PS3? Then buy Uncharted, you will not be disappointed. This game not only has great visuals, but leaves you feeling as if you were playing in a movie. With this game you will be proud to be a PS3 owner.

Unreal Tournament III - From the makers of Gears of War comes Unreal Tournament III, and only for the PS3 this holiday season.

Warhawk- Do you like mulitplayer? If you own a PS3 this is a must have.

Wii
Super Mario Galaxy - This goes with no questions asked. With its brilliant design, gameplay, and innovative controls. For the Wii owner Super Mario Galaxy is a must have.

Wii Zapper with Link's Crossbow Training - Are you a fan of the oldschool game Duck Hunt? Think of the Wii Zapper as the reincarnation, and while you may not be a fan of the Zapper itself you will be with the game inside, plus its only $20.

Metroid Prime 3: Corruption - The final of the Metroid Prime series, Corruption will not dissappoint, it has some of the best graphics on the Wii and will immerse you into the game with its innovative controls.

Xbox 360
Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare (also on PS3)- This game is a holiday must have. Not only does it have an amazing single player storyline, it also is one of the best mulitplayer games out there for the 360.

The Orange Box (also on PS3)- Who doesn't like a good deal? With The Orange Box you get 5 games in 1. Half-Life 2, HL 2: Episode 1, HL 2: Episode 2, Team Fortress 2, and Portal. This game will definitely not disappoint.

Bioshock - Have you ever seen an underwater city? Or even been inside one? After playing Bioshock your answers to this question will be yes. This game not only gives the look and feel of an underwater city, you will become part of it.

Halo 3- Yes Halo 3, who didn't know that was coming? This game is the finale to the Halo trilogy and is a must have for a fan of the multiplayer shooter.

Mass Effect- Are you a fan of Role Playing Games? Then look no further, Mass Effect is the best RPG of the year and it is only for the 360.

Rock Band (also on PS3)- Are you a fan of Guitar Hero? Every wanted to play the drums? Or maybe you wanted to be a singer? Rock Band will fulfill all of these tasks and best of all you and all your buddies can create your own band.

New Releases: Week of 12/9

Title	Platform	Genre	Release Date
BlackSite: Area 51	PS3	Action	Dec 10, 2007
Dai Senryaku VII: Exceed	PS2	Strategy	Dec 11, 2007
Galactic Civilizations II: Twilight of the Arnor	PC	Strategy	Dec 12, 2007
Indianapolis 500 Legends	WII	Driving	Dec 14, 2007
Kawasaki 4X4 Quad Bikes	WII	Driving	Dec 14, 2007
Luxor: Pharaoh's Challenge	DS	Puzzle	Dec 11, 2007
NCAA March Madness 08	X360	Sports	Dec 11, 2007
NCAA March Madness 08	PS3	Sports	Dec 11, 2007
NCAA March Madness 08	PS2	Sports	Dec 11, 2007
Showtime Championship Boxing	WII	Sports	Dec 11, 2007
Super Swing Golf Season 2	WII	Sports	Dec 11, 2007
The Golden Compass	PC	Action	Dec 14, 2007
The Lost Crown: A Ghost-hunting Adventure	PC	Adventure	Dec 10, 2007
The Orange Box	PS3	Action	Dec 11, 2007
Universe at War: Earth Assault	PC	Strategy	Dec 10, 2007
Unreal Tournament 3	PS3	Action	Dec 11, 2007
Winter Sports: The Ultimate Challenge	WII	Sports	Dec 11, 2007

[From Gamespot]