Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Xbox 360 Slim Bundle Options To Save You Money
If you don’t already have an Xbox 360, or are looking to upgrade your older model, then the best way to get value for money is to opt for an Xbox 360 Slim bundle. Here’s a guide to the three main bundles available to buy.
Xbox Console and Kinect Bundle: The most popular Xbox 360 Slim bundle is undoubtedly the console and Kinect package (released November 4, 2010). This comes in a number of different prices depending on whether you choose a 250GB or 4GB hard drive size.
The main benefit of choosing this bundle is that you’ll only be paying $100 extra to get the Kinect motion control sensor. If you bought the Kinect package alone, you’d have to pay $150. The prices of the consoles alone vs. buying them as part of a bundle are:
* Xbox 250GB $299.99
* Xbox 250GB and Kinect bundle $399.99
* Xbox 4GB $199.99
* Xbox 4GB and Kinect bundle $299.99
So what’s included in the bundle? For a start, you’ll get the latest edition of the top-selling games console. The Slim version now includes a glossy finish and is much smaller than the original Xbox. You’ll also get the Kinect Sensor that plugs directly into the port of the Xbox 360 Slim, the Kinect Adventures Game (rated “E” for everyone), the Xbox Black Wireless Controller, Xbox 360 Headset, and the Xbox Composite A/V cable.
Xbox 360 Slim Bundle With Halo Reach: Next you can choose the Xbox 360 Halo Reach bundle (released September 14, 2010) which comes with an exclusively designed version of the new slimmer Xbox console, alongside a copy of the game and two controllers that match the design of the console.
The Halo Reach console design features original artwork that was inspired by the game, and is sold as part of a limited edition for true fans of the title. The game itself was designed exclusively for the Xbox console, and Halo: Reach is the prequel to the bestselling original Halo game.
The included console includes the biggest hard drive size available (250GB) and comes with a one month gold membership to Xbox LIVE.
Kinect Bundle: Lastly, you can purchase the Kinect sensor without also needing to buy the Xbox 360 console. The Kinect bundle simply includes the sensor bar alongside the family game “Kinect Adventures”. This will cost $150, which is more expensive than buying the Xbox 360 Slim bundle with Kinect included, but useful for those who already own the console.
As you can see, there are a number of Xbox 360 Slim bundle options designed to suit all needs and tastes in games. Whatever you choose will depend on whether you already own an Xbox. One thing’s for sure – the Kinect is sure to sell out fast!
More Info...
Monday, September 27, 2010
Do the Apple iPad Features Make It A Better Option Than A Netbook?
One of the major criticisms of the Apple iPad features was that they weren’t really targeted to anyone in particular.
For portable computing with the need for a larger screen, we already have netbooks. For checking mail on the go, we already have smartphones. However, despite this observation by some critics, the iPad has gone on to become one of the biggest selling gadgets. If you’re still on the fence, then here’s a quick comparison between the iPad and netbooks.
Price
When it comes to price, choice is a huge factor. With the iPad, you only get to choose your hard drive capacity and whether you want added 3G. With netbooks, there are a huge range of manufacturers to choose from, and a huge range of prices. You can pick up netbooks for just a few hundred dollars, whereas prices for the iPad are $500 minimum.
Battery Life
The iPad is a great choice when it comes to battery life. The Apple iPad features list states that the battery will run for 10 hours, with the screen set to 75% brightness, Wi-Fi turned on, and working at full performance. Netbooks vary widely, and although some may claim a little over 10 hours, these claims generally do not include the netbook working at full performance while connected to the internet. The iPad is the clear winner when it comes to battery life.
Operating Systems
The operating system on the iPad is completely designed by Apple, though operating systems can vary depending on what you buy. Being forced to use a particular operating system may not be to everyone’s liking, though upgrading is generally easier and you will not need to use Anti-Virus software with the iPad.
Hardware
One major complaint of netbooks is that they can run slowly. Although you might experience some glitches on the iPad from time to time, software generally loads and runs quicker than on a netbook. However, some major drawbacks of the iPad include the fact that it doesn’t include a physical keyboard, doesn’t have any USB ports to add additional hardware, doesn’t allow you to add more space, and doesn’t include a webcam – which most netbooks do have. There are, however, accessories for the iPad, such as the keyboard dock.
Functions/ Apps
One major drawback of the iPad is that you can’t run more than one app at a time, so multitasking is a huge benefit of purchasing a netbook instead of an iPad. However, there are thousands of apps available for the iPad which all run well and perform a huge number of functions.
When it comes to functions, it all depends on which programs or apps you choose to use. There are many different programs available for netbooks, coming at a variety of prices. Some people may prefer the fact that they can still work with software they know well on a netbook, though others may prefer the simplicity and ease of use of apps on the iPad.
Style
Let’s face it, you can’t do a proper comparison without factoring in style and the “cool” factor for each of these gadgets. And this is a huge reason why everything Apple touches seems to turn to gold. The iPad is cool, plain and simple. It looks a loss more simple and a lot more stylish than your average netbook.
Conclusion
The Apple iPad features may be perfect for some users, and not for others. Netbooks are generally seen as portable computers (albeit usually slower than standard laptops), whereas iPads work in their own unique way, but can be perfect for business and entertainment. It really depends on which you’d prefer to work with!
More Details Here...
Saturday, September 25, 2010
Playstation Move or Wii: Which Is Best For Motion Gaming?
The Nintendo Wii has long held the title of best console for motion controlled gaming.
However, with the release of the Playstation Move, many people are now asking the question: Playstation Move or Wii? Which gives you the best gaming experience?
The Controllers
The WiiMote can pick up movements along two-axis and when it is rotated. It also includes a D-pad controller, vibrations, sounds and buttons for those games that don’t make use of motion. The Nunchuk adds a joystick to the equation.
Sony Move could be seen as similar to the WiiMote in some respects. It includes a ball on the end that lights up during various stages of the game, and includes the four Playstation buttons, a trigger button, Move button and vibrations. It’s more sensitive than the WiiMote as it includes two three-axis motion sensors, both to measure speed and measurements of direction. There is also an additional navigational controller. Along with the camera, the Move system is able to detect a much greater range of movement than the Wii.
Video Camera
Firstly, in the debate of Playstation Move or Wii, it’s important to take a look at the elements which make up the motion controlled aspect of the console. For the Wii, this simply means the motion controllers alongside WiiMotion Plus if you choose to buy the add-on.
However, the Playstation Move (like the Xbox rival product, Kinect) comes with a camera. The benefit of including a video camera in the system is that it helps to track movements even more accurately. It also means that you can capture video and still pictures if you should want or need to.
Voice Control
This is another option that the Playstation Move includes that the Wii is lacking. You can purchase a microphone if you need it for Wii games, but it isn’t built into the system. With the Move, the Playstation Eye camera includes a microphone that’s capable of ignoring background noises and focusing on your speech only.
Price
The major benefit of the Nintendo Wii is the fact that the Wii console includes the motion controller, Nunchuk and Wii Sports game. If you want to get hold of the Playstation Move then you’re going to need to pay extra for the camera, the controller, and the optional navigation controller. It’s all available in a single package at $100 – not cheap considering the cost of the console on top of that.
In the battle of Playstation Move or Wii you’ll need to carefully consider what you’re looking for. If you’re not too bothered about having the latest technology, and just want to go with the cheapest option, then a Wii is for you. However, if you’ve already got the PS3, or you want the very best in motion controlled technology, then the Playstation Move will be well worth the upfront investment.
More Information HERE...
The Apple iPad Case: A Guide to the Accessories Available to Protect Your iPad
When it comes to the most popular accessories for the iPad, the Apple iPad case comes out on top.
Since the iPad was released, hundreds of independent manufacturers have come up with artistic, bold, functional, and protective designs of cases to protect your expensive gadget. Here’s a quick guide to the various types available and why you might need them.
Why Buy An Apple iPad Case At All?
You’ve probably heard a lot of different things regarding how durable the iPad really is. Although some will say that the glass screen can’t be scratched, put it in your bag next to your keys and you’ll soon see that it can. Although it’s true that the iPad is pretty durable, considering you’re going to be carrying it around with you, it’s important that you can keep it protected when you do so.
iPad Screen Protectors
Although iPad screen protectors help to protect against scratches, they are less a case and more a simple protective layer that you stick over the screen of the iPad. These are available from a huge number of manufacturers and are the simplest way to keep your screen free of scratches. The good news is that the protective screen is invisible if you take time to stick it on in the right position. These won’t do anything to protect against bumps and falls.
iPad Sleeves
Sleeves are generally made from thin material, designed for you to slip your iPad inside to protect it against scratches while carrying it around. This performs a similar function to the screen protector, while protecting the whole of the iPad body. They won’t protect against bumps unless they’re padded.
iPad Skins
This kind of Apple iPad case simply wraps around the sides and back of the iPad, and is popularly used as a way to make it look more personal and unique. Skins are generally made of silicone, and as such add a little extra padding, as well as great protection against dust and dirt. Although skins look great, it’s unlikely that they will protect against drops.
Soft Cases
One of the most popular types of Apple iPad case is the soft, full case. These cases are generally designed with layers of padding, and enclose the whole of your iPad. They will allow you to reach all of the buttons and functions easily, and generally open and close to protect your screen when you’re not using it.
Hard Cases
For those who want even more protection, hard iPad cases are available in a number of styles and materials. Hard leather cases are designed for maximum protection with a formal look.
iPad Bags
Lastly, you can also choose an iPad bag to carry around your device. The best iPad bags come with a number of other pockets for anything else you might need to carry around, and you can also get them in briefcase form.
The Apple iPad case you choose will depend on the level of protection you need (with full cases and bags generally giving the most) as well as the designs you prefer. The good news is that practically all of these cases mentioned come in a huge range of designs to suit all tastes.
More Information HERE...
The New Xbox 360 Vs The Old Xbox 360: What Has Changed?
The new Xbox 360 is a great choice for those who are buying an Xbox for the first time, but what about those of us who already have the older model? Is it worth upgrading?
Before you decide, it’s important to take a look at the facts and find out what’s really changed.
According to Microsoft themselves, “the new Xbox 360 gives you the ultimate gaming and entertainment experience” – coming ready for the new Kinect motion sensor that will revolutionize gaming.
The new Xbox 360 (otherwise known as Xbox 360 Slim 250GB), boasts a number of upgrades:
1) Kinect Compatible: As mentioned above, the new 360 console works with Kinect right out of the box, with a built in port. However, Kinect will work with older Xbox 360 consoles through the use of an adaptor.
2) New Design: Nobody can fail to notice how sleek the new Xbox looks in comparison to the older model. It’s slimmer (as its name suggests) and has a glossy black finish as opposed to the matte finish of older models. The new design also makes it lighter and thinner than the older design. In short, it’ll fit in easier around your television, and look nicer on display too!
3) Power Block: Previous Xbox users will know just how big the old power brick was. This one is a little smaller but, more importantly, it requires less power to use.
4) Quieter Model: One of the biggest complaints of the older Xbox 360 was that it was extremely noisy while playing games or watching movies. The new Xbox is “whisper quiet”, and the difference is noticeable – it won’t ruin those quiet moments in movies anymore!
5) Built In Wi-Fi: The older Xbox models required a separate adaptor to connect to wireless networks. The new Xbox 360 now has this functionality built in, meaning it’s a lot easier and more convenient to connect to Xbox live.
6) Huge 250GB Hard Drive: The new hard drive size is massive, rivaling even many computers! You’ll be able to store thousands of files including games, movies, music and anything else you need to. It’ll take a long time to fill up!
If you’re a casual user who already has an Xbox that’s working perfectly, you may not choose to upgrade. However, if you’ve had your Xbox for a while and it’s starting to show it’s age, then it’ll definitely be worth upgrading to the new Xbox 360 Slim. The upgrades are noticeable, and it won’t cost much different to what the original Xbox cost when you bought it.
More Information HERE...
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Apple iPad Business Capabilities
iPad Apps and Functions That Help Your Business Run Smoother.
The iPad has sold in its millions since it was first released, and it isn’t hard to see why. Not just a device for pleasure, the Apple iPad business capabilities are some of its most notable. Whether you run your own business, work in an office, or need to keep track of customer appointments, the iPad can help to make it as easy as possible.
Apple iPad Business Functions
Right out of the box, there are a number of Apple iPad business functions to help make your work easier. For a start, the iPad is extremely portable, yet large enough to perform a number of functions that just might not be suitable for your smartphone. It’s easy to carry around with you, meaning you’ve got everything you need to work on the go.
There are a number of iPad apps that are pre-installed with your iPad and are perfect for business functions. They include a calendar, mail, web browser, maps, notes and contacts. They’re extremely easy to use and can keep you up to date no matter where you are.
The Perfect iPad Apps for Business and Productivity
There are literally thousands of apps available from the App Store that cater towards business and productivity. From to-do list apps, that make sure you’ve got everything listed to do that day, to apps that can open all kinds of documents, from spreadsheets to PDF files, you’ll be able to keep track of your work on the go.
iPad apps are available for free or to purchase for a small fee – much cheaper than larger software programs available for standard computers.
Promote Your Business
Not only can you get iPad apps readymade, but your business can also produce its own iPad apps to promote your services and features, or simply to make your work easier. Apps can be designed to perform specific company needs, or to help your customers access your business information as quickly as possible. Anything is possible!
Business Accessories
As well as iPad apps designed for business, you can also buy a number of Apple iPad business accessories to help enhance your iPad experience. You could choose to get a briefcase specifically designed to house and protect the iPad, or a keyboard dock could make sending those emails a lot easier when you’re in the office. These accessories are available both from Apple and a number of third party sellers.
More Information HERE...
Playstation Move Games: What You Can Expect From The New Motion Controller
With the release of the first motion controller for the Sony Playstation comes the release of a whole new range of Playstation Move games that can incorporate these new features.
Here’s a quick guide to what’s available.
Sports Champions
This is the game that comes included with the Playstation Move controller, set to be one of the most fun, family-focused of the Playstation Move games. It includes a wide range of different sports to choose from, including table tennis, sword fighting and much more! This is Sony’s answer to Wii Sports and set to be even more fun with a whole new range of controls.
TV Superstars
Next in the line of Playstation Move games is TV Superstars, a fun game that lets you have your own part in one of five television shows. You use your Move controller to compete with others and make sure you reach the top of the A list and finally become a celebrity. You’ll soon be signing autographs and stepping onto the red carpet!
The Fight
This bare knuckle fighting game is a great way to experience all that the Playstation Move has to offer. You’ll be working your way through different fights in order to reach the top of your game. There are no rules in these fights, you can use any moves you want to make sure that you take them down!
Little Big Planet 2
This game doesn’t require the Move controller to play, but it does make use of it to give you a whole new experience. This is a completely new adventure filled with many new abilities and gameplay options. You can customize everything about the games for the most imaginative experience yet.
Start the Party
As the title suggests, this option from the line of Playstation Move games is perfect for parties and playing with friends. Up to four players can compete against each other in a number of games that require all kinds of action with your Playstation Move controller. The games range from hunting ghosts to destroying robots and deep diving!
Brunswick Pro Bowling
Another game that makes use of the Move to add additional elements is the new bowling game. The Move controller gives you a completely new way to bowl, making it more realistic than ever before. You’ll need to roll with complete accuracy in order make your way through the championship and unlock hidden items.
This is just a small selection of the Playstation Move games. You can be sure that there will now be more and more games released to match all styles and interests, as well as those that have the ability to bring family and friends together for a night of fun!
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Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Playstation 3 Wireless Controller Options
The Playstation 3 introduced a number of new features in comparison to the PS2.
One of the most notable was the Playstation 3 wireless controller – based on the older controller models but designed to bring a new element to Playstation gaming.
The Playstation 3 Wireless Controller
The wireless controller is designed just like the DualShock wired controller, with the main exception being that it now doesn’t need a wire to work, it connects via Bluetooth instead. This is a major benefit for gamers, as it gives far more freedom of movement when playing, controlling movies and more. Not to mention the fact that wires won’t clutter up the floor anymore!
The Wireless DualShock controller comes in a range of colors, starting with the traditional Playstation black and in red, blue, silver and white (depending on your tastes). These wireless controllers are perfect for most Playstation 3 games, though some of the newer games will work best with the latest Sony invention: Playstation Move.
There are also a number of other wireless accessories designed for the PS3, including a wireless keypad attachment for the controller, Blu-Ray DVD remote and the SIXAXIS controller.
The Latest Playstation 3 Wireless Controller: Playstation Move
Aside from the standard controllers, Playstation has now introduced wireless motion controllers into the spectrum of accessories. The Playstation Move wireless controllers work in combination with the camera to track movements of the body and hands and control the action within the game. Users can also purchase a separate charging station for these controllers to make sure they’re always powered up and ready to go.
How Does the Playstation 3 Wireless Controller Work?
The great thing about Playstation wireless controllers is that they connect through Bluetooth to the console. This means there are no wires to deal with whatsoever, which works in the same way as the controllers on the Nintendo Wii. In total, the PS3 is able to connect up to 7 Bluetooth controllers straight out of the box – making it perfect for multiplayer gaming without having wires everywhere!
Bluetooth has a range of around 30 feet or more, making them very useful. The controllers themselves should last for around 30 hours after being charged for around two and a half hours at a time.
In addition to connecting controllers through Bluetooth, gamers can also take advantage of the Playstation 3 Bluetooth Headset for chatting on the console. It can also be used as a microphone once docked in the charging cradle.
As you can see, the Playstation 3 wireless controller really has come a long way. Without wires, you’re free to play exactly as you want, and make the most of the space all around you.
More Info HERE...
Is the Microsoft Xbox 360 Slim Ready for Kinect?
The release of Microsoft Xbox 360 Kinect is set to change the way we play games.
Instead of needing a separate controller, you ARE the controller yourself! The unique Kinect sensor bar will detect the way that you move, translating that to the way characters move on screen.
However, one of the biggest questions with such a huge new software development is “will Kinect work with the old Xbox 360?” Microsoft have only recently released the new upgraded Xbox 360 Slim, which has caused many people to ask whether they need to buy the upgraded console to play Kinect.
The simple answer: Kinect will work on all Microsoft Xbox 360 consoles, new and old.
How Kinect Connects to the New Xbox 360 Slim
Among the number of upgrades given to the new Xbox 360 Slim is the fact that it’s “Kinect ready”. But what does this mean exactly? All it means is that the new Xbox has a correctly sized port on the back which will allow you to plug the Kinect in when you buy it separately or as part of the Xbox 360 Slim and Kinect bundle.
Do You Need to Buy A Kinect Adaptor Cable?
If you have the old Xbox 360 model, then you’re probably wondering what kind of cables you’re going to need to connect the Kinect. The good news is that the Kinect will come with everything you need in the box to set it up – you’ll just need to plug it in a separate power jack to make sure it’s all working properly. The sensor will require 175MB of memory to work properly.
What About Additional Kinect Accessories?
Despite the fact that you may not need to buy a connector for your new Kinect, you may still be interested in a number of accessories designed to enhance the experience.
Microsoft plan to release a wall mount, TV mount and floor stand for the Kinect to make it fit into your living area more seamlessly. If you need to reposition your Kinect/ Xbox 360 then you may also want to take advantage of the Kinect extension cable, which provides an extra ten foot range. This is priced at around $50.
As you can see, Kinect is ready to work on all Microsoft Xbox 360 systems. With such a simple setup, using only one component, you’ll be up and running in no time at all!
More Info HERE...
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
A Guide To The New Apple iPhone 4 Features
Each time Apple releases a new gadget there’s always a huge fuss over what’s going to be on offer, and the iPhone 4 is no different.
Get The Latest iphone 4 accessory pack from Amazon.com HERE
If you want to know whether it really lives up to the hype, here’s a guide to the iPhone 4 features.
How Do the iPhone 4 Features Compare to Previous iPhone Models?
The iPhone 4 is designed to be an upgrade on previous models, but it doesn’t completely change things. And why would Apple want it to? They already have a very good thing going with the iPhone series that millions of users around the world love. The good news, however, is that they have taken some of the main complaints of older models into account, as well as giving the design a sleek new revamp.
A Guide to the iPhone 4 Specs
Screen: The first thing on this list of new iPhone 4 features is the screen, which now includes a resolution far greater than previous models, at 960 x 640 pixels. This makes the 3.5 inch display very impressive compared to any other phone on the market.
Design: The design, as a whole, is considered to be a lot more slick than the previous iPhone models, and the iPhone 4 no longer makes use of curved lines. You’ll notice a much bigger difference in the iPhone 4 than you ever did since the original model was upgraded to the 3G and 3GS.
Available Models: The iPhone 4 is available in 16GB or 32GB and comes in both black and white (like previous models).
iOS4: The new operating system, iOS4, helps to make the iPhone 4 as impressive at it is. One of the major complaints of the older models was that they didn’t include multitasking. This now comes as standard on the iPhone 4, with much better controls for applications. Although it isn’t quite complete (it doesn’t work with all apps), it’s still a huge improvement.
Features: Some of the other new features that come with the operating system include home screen folders to stop you having to scroll through too many pages of apps, a new master email inbox that will display all of your accounts in one place, and iBooks (originally seen on the iPad) for reading and downloading eBooks.
Photo and Video: The iPhone 4 features also include new video options. There is a front-facing self portrait camera and rear-facing camera, which allow you to make video calls and create videos in 720p, high definition at 30 frames per second. Users will benefit from an improved 5 megapixel camera including LED flash, touch-to-focus feature and fast shutter speed. There are, of course, better camera phones on the market – but this is fantastic for a smartphone.
Is It As Good As Everyone Says?
The iPhone 4 really does offer up a number of noticeable improvements to the previous models. Take a look at the iPhone 4 features and you’ll see a lot added that had been lacking before. The main drawback was the fact that the signal strength seemed to drop when holding the iPhone 4 over the antenna. However, Apple helped to overcome this by offering free cases to its customers.
The truth is that the device is still a huge seller and widely regarded as the best, and most striking, smartphone out there today.
Find Out More HERE...
The Playstation Move Gun and Playstation Move Navigation Controller
The basis behind the Playstation Move system is to use the motion controller in conjunction with the camera for an accurate way to measure your movements and replicate them within games.
However, for those who want even more accuracy (and more fun!) there are two notable accessories available: the Playstation Move Gun and the Playstation Move Navigation controller.
Playstation Move and First Person Shooter Games
When Playstation Move was first announced, many people wondered how it was going to work with first person shooter games: games that required users to replicate holding, aiming and shooting a gun (and not to just move their arms around to create movements). This is why Playstation came out with these impressive add-ons.
The Playstation Move Gun
Sony announced the Playstation Move Gun stating that it would be perfect for first person shooters and rail shooter games, such as Resident Evil. The gun attachment is designed to make it more realistic, and includes laser point aiming to help with precision in the game. Although this might not be useful for many of the games, for those into their shooting games it’s definitely a must-have.
The Playstation Move Navigation Controller
The Playstation Move Navigation Controller is another optional accessory, and will generally be useful in a greater number of the games than the Move Gun will be. It’s also included in the Move Starter Bundle alongside the Move motion controller, camera, and Sports game.
The Navigator includes an analog stick alongside directional buttons, that help you navigate menus and aspects of games, as well as the X and O Playstation buttons. You’ll also get L1, L2 and L3 buttons for advanced functions within games. The Navigation controller features a rechargeable Li-ion battery, and you can use up to two motion controllers and two navigation controllers connected to the system at the same time.
It’s important to note that, where games are compatible with the Playstation Move Navigator, you can also use the standard DualShock controller in its place. This is why the navigator really is optional as far as Move games go.
The Playstation Move Gun and the Playstation Move Navigation controllers aren’t necessary for you to take advantage of Move, but they are a fantastic add-on for anyone who wants the complete gaming experience and perfect control in all genres of game. To get the best prices, opt for the Move bundle and buy the Gun separately.
More Info Here...
Monday, September 20, 2010
Should You Buy Playstation 3 Slim?
If you don’t yet own a console, or have had your old Playstation 3 for a while, then you might consider getting your hands on the newest addition to the Playstation family: the PS3 Slim.
The Slim comes with a number of notable upgrades to the last version of the console, but it’s worth taking a look at whether you should buy Playstation 3 Slim or just stick with your old console.
New Design
The first thing that you’ll notice when looking to buy Playstation 3 is that the “Slim” version has a completely new design. As the name suggests, the newest model is slimmer and generally smaller, coming in at 6.5 centimeters wide, and 29 centimeters height and width. The console is a lot lighter, now weighing just 7 pounds. The finish is now matte black rather than the old glossy style.
Energy Efficiency
Alongside a design overhaul, the PS3 Slim is also designed to be more energy efficient, now making use of a 250-watt power supply as opposed to the older Playstation 3’s 280-watt supply.
Hard Drive
With the release of the PS3 Slim, the price went down and a number of features were increased, including the size of the hard drive. The old Playstation included an 80GB drive, and the PS3 Slim was released with 120GB. There are also packages that include hard drive sizes of up to 320GB which is huge by console standards. The hard drive is removable, which is a bonus.
Backward Compatibility
Like other Playstation 3 models before it, the PS3 Slim still does not come with backward compatibility for older Playstation 2 games. This may influence your decision to buy Playstation 3 Slim, if you have many PS2 games that you still like to play.
Operating Systems
Previous models of Playstation allowed users to install third-party operating systems on them, and this feature has now been removed. However, it’s not something that most users would have had a use for.
Aside from these changes, the best features of the Playstation 3 still remain, such as the Blu-ray disc player and high quality graphics on top games. Whether you buy Playstation 3 Slim will depend upon whether you already own a Playstation. If you’ve had an old PS3 for a while, then it’s a worthy upgrade. If you’ve never owned a Playstation before, then now is a fantastic time to buy one – take advantage of the lowest prices and save even more by opting for bundles that include games and the new Playstation Move motion controller.
Learn More HERE...
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Kinect Games: Titles Compatible With the New Xbox 360 Motion Controller
Xbox Kinect provides a new way to control your games, and with its release comes a whole range of new Kinect games.
These games take full advantage of everything that the sensor bar has to offer: you no longer need a controller, as you are the controller yourself! Here’s a quick guide to the games released alongside this highly anticipated Xbox 360 add-on.
Kinect Adventures
This is the game that comes packaged with the Kinect, whether you buy the Kinect on its own or as part of an Xbox 360 Slim console bundle. This is rated E, and is designed for the whole family to enjoy together. It consists of twenty different adventures, from obstacle courses to rafting.
Kinectimals
The second of the Kinect games designed for families is Kinectimals, letting you choose a partner to explore with, from one of five animals. You’ll play with your companion, teach it commands, and take part in contests.
Dance Central
This is set to be one of the hottest Kinect games, perfect for children, adults and groups of friends at parties. Dance Central includes full-body dance moves that don’t require any controller to act out. Each track has different choreography depending on whether you’re a beginner or an expert, and tracks range from pop to hip hop.
Kinect Sports
This is Xbox’s answer to Wii Sports, and the sports include volleyball, soccer, bowling, boxing, track & field and table tennis. The main difference is that Kinect Sports offers full body play. You can choose to play alone or as part of a team, and it’s suitable for all levels of fitness.
Kinect Joy Ride
This is the karting game from Kinect, that doesn’t require a controller. There are five different game modes in which you race through different worlds, and navigate your way through the courses using the movements of your body.
Your Shape: Fitness Evolved
The motion control capabilities of Kinect mean that there’s huge scope for fitness, and Your Shape: Fitness Evolved takes full advantage of the fact that the sensor can detect your whole body. Track your burned calories, interact with your personal trainer and perform personalized workouts that keep you motivated.
Zumba Fitness
Zumba is the new fitness and dance craze, and it’s now even more fun thanks to this Kinect game. Your Zumba instructor will guide you through the 30 routines that help you to lose weight while having fun.
Sonic Free Riders
The classic Sonic is now featuring on Kinect, but in a different way than ever before. Choose a character who you will help to race against the competition. The racing takes advantage of full body motion to make your way through the various courses.
Kinect games aren’t ordinary video games: they’ll have you moving your body, jumping, running and more! If you want to get a little exercise, then this is the way to do it! You’ll soon find yourself immersed in what Kinect has to offer, with many more titles on the way.
More Latest Kinect Info HERE
How Much Does Kinect Cost? How You Can Get It Cheaper
Kinect promises big things in the world of motion-controlled gaming, but with its highly anticipated release comes the question of Kinect cost. Is it really worth the price tag, and are there any ways to get hold of it cheaper?
The Kinect Cost: Is It Worth It?
The recommended retail price for Kinect is $149.99, and most retailers will be sticking to this price due to anticipated demand for this new piece of software. This is a lot higher than just about any controller that’s been released for a video game console, though the controller is also different to anything you may have seen before.
This controller isn’t actually a controller in the usual sense of the word. It is, in fact, a sensor bar that incorporates a camera to detect bodily movements (it even works with two players) to replicate them on the screen. You don’t even need to use a controller to select menu options – you just “grab” the items. In this respect, this is extremely new technology which explains the high Kinect cost.
Sony are releasing a similar product known as “Move”. This works slightly differently, using a camera, controller and navigation controller to achieve the effect. The total cost of this equipment is $100 – a useful comparison to the Kinect hardware.
How Can You Get Kinect Cheaper?
Although Kinect carries a hefty price tag, there are ways you can reduce the cost if you also want to buy the console at the same time. Alone, Kinect does come with one game to add value to the package. However, you can buy this game and the Kinect motion sensor along with the new Xbox 360 Slim console for an even bigger saving.
The Xbox 360 console and Kinect bundles come in two options: a 250GB hard drive and a 4GB hard drive. They’re sold alone at $299.99 and $199.99 respectively, and you can add just $100 onto the price if you want the Kinect bundle. This makes the 250GB bundle $399.99 and the 4GB bundle $299.99.
As you can see, the Kinect cost is expensive if you consider it to be a standard controller – but the truth is that it’s much more than that. It really will be a completely new gaming experience, and one that many people are likely going to be willing to pay for. It’ll also be great for families or those who want a new activity to do with their friends.
Click HERE to see the latest offers on the Kinect
Monday, September 13, 2010
The XBox 360 Slim Against The PS3 Slim
If you’re in the market for a new games console, then it makes sense to compare the various models on the market, and the Xbox 360 Slim vs. PS3 Slim is one of the most requested comparisons out there! Both Sony and Microsoft have recently chosen to give their famous consoles an upgrade and a makeover, but which one should you buy?
Design: The Slim versions of both of these major consoles are seen to be a step up from their original, larger designs. The Xbox 360 is very noticeably sleeker, shorter and thinner than the old 360, but could still do with improvement. The PS3 Slim doesn’t quite look as eye-catching as the 360, still using a matte plastic finish.
Features: The features are similar on both consoles, but with a few important differences. The Xbox 360 Slim still doesn’t include Blu-ray support, and the PS3 has the added bonus of user-replaceable hard drives, both of which give the PS3 Slim the edge in this category.
Price: There isn’t anything in the price, so you’ll need to look at what you’re getting to judge the true value. If it’s a greater selection of games, Xbox comes out on top, but if you need a Blu-ray player, then the PS3 is better value.
Game Selection: There are generally more games available to play on the Xbox 360, though it has lost the edge it once had. The PS3 now has many first-party exclusives that mean the consoles are pretty much even on the game front.
Online Features: The Xbox 360 still trumps the Playstation options (though they are improving). One benefit of the PS3’s online service is that it’s offered for free, but the consensus is that Xbox still offer the better experience.
Backward Compatibility: The PS3 is not backwardly compatible with old PS2 games, which may be a disappointment to some gamers.
Graphics: The Xbox 360 Slim vs. PS3 Slim graphics war leaves the PS3 out on top. However, in reality users will only see the most advanced graphics on a few select first-party titles. The Xbox boasts good graphics performance on third-party titles, making it hard to call who wins this round.
So Who Comes Out On Top?
Based on the categories mentioned above, the winner in the battle of the Xbox 360 Slim vs. PS3 Slim is not clear! It all depends on what you want to use your console for. One thing that we didn’t include on the list was Kinect. This motion controller sensor potentially has the ability to get even non-gamers interested in the Xbox. For this reason alone, the Xbox 360 just manages to take the crown!