IPTV on 360???
Yep, its true, the release of IPTV for our 360's is soon!
What is it?
It is a system where a service is digital television delivered by using internet protocal over a network infrastructure, which may include delivery by a broadband connection. A general definition of IPTV is television content that, instead of being delivered through traditional broadcast and cable formats, is received by the viewer through the technologies used for computer networks.
Video:
Rock Band to be released on November 23
Shortly after Rock Band was first announced for the Xbox 360, retailers posted product pages for the game's various instruments and an all-in-one bundle. However, Harmonix and MTV Games remained stubbornly mum on the subject of pricing and package options for the music game.
That changed today when a Harmonix rep confirmed that Amazon.com's latest changes to the game's price and release date are accurate. The online retailer is currently listing the Xbox 360 bundle of the game for $169.99, with a November 23 release date.
The Xbox 360 bundle will include the game, a wired drum kit, and a microphone. The 360 bundle will also come with a wired Fender Stratocaster guitar controller and USB hub.
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Burnout Revenge Game Cheats and Achievements
Battle racing hits a new level this March as the critically acclaimed Burnout franchise slams onto Xbox 360™ with Burnout Revenge™. Orchestrate the most realistic crashes ever seen in a video game, reach mind-blowing speeds, and head online for a supercharged Xbox Live® experience.
Burnout Revenge Unlockables:
- Black Elite Racer: Achieve ELITE Rank
- Criterion GT Racer: Finish the White Mountian Challenge.
- Custom Classic: Finish the Sunshine Keys Challenge.
- Dominator Assassin: There must be a Burnout 3 gamesave on your memeory card.
- EA GT Racer: Finish the Central Route Challenge.
- Etnies Racer: Finish the Motor City Challenge.
- Euro Classic LM: Finish the Eternal City Challenge.
- Hot Rod: Finish the Lone Peak Challenge.
- Logitech World Racer: Finish the Rank 10 Ultimate Revenge GP.
- Low Rider: Finish the Angel Valley Challenge.
- Nixon Special: Finish the Eastren Bay Challenge.
- Revenge Racer: Finish 100% of the game.
Burnout Revenge Achievements:50 To Won (25 points):
Win 50 races online.
Celebrity Status (65 points):
Have a Burnout Clip in the Top 20 Downloads.
Check It Out (10 points):
Share a Burnout Clip.
Complete Maniac (45 points):
Get all Perfects in the Maniac rank.
Crack the Unsafe (15 points):
Get all Perfects in the Unsafe rank.
Crash Addict (20 points):
Win 40 crash events online.
Crashes To Ashes (35 points):
Complete all Crash Intersections with Perfect ratings.
Dominate The Dominator (60 points):
Get all Perfects in the Dominator rank.
Easily Offensive (20 points):
Get all Perfects in the Offensive rank.
Extremely Dangerous (30 points):
Get all Perfects in the Dangerous rank.
Grudge O'War (40 points):
Score over 100 times with the same rival.
Laying The Takedowns (20 points):
Get 50 Takedowns online.
Most Wanted (55 points):
Get ahead of all five rivals in an online lobby.
Not Harmless (10 points):
Get all Perfects in the Harmless rank.
Opening A Can (15 points):
Get five in a row on one Revenge rival.
Perfect Assassin (55 points):
Get all Perfects in the Assassin rank.
Race Ace (35 points):
Complete all race events with Perfect ratings.
Road Warrior (25 points):
Get 1,000 Takedowns.
Run Burner, Run (20 points):
Win thirty times for the Blue Team in online Road Rage.
Rush Hour Revenge (35 points):
All Traffic Attacks completed with Perfect ratings.
Server Surfer (5 points):
Compete in a Burnout Revenge event online.
Settle With Metal (10 points):
Settle a score online.
Should Be Autographs (35 points):
Complete all 24 Signature Takedowns.
Speeding Bullet (25 points):
All Burning Lap and Preview events completed with Perfect ratings.
Stack The Pack (15 points):
Blow up five rivals at once.
Start Something Ugly (5 points):
Take someone down online.
Takedowns Galore (20 points):
Get 250 Takedowns.
The Crushinator (15 points):
Getting two Vertical Takedowns in a race.
The Terminator (25 points):
All Eliminator events completed with Perfect ratings.
Totally Insane (40 points):
Get all Perfects in the Insane rank.
Triple Trouble (15 points):
Get Revenge three times in an event.
True Elite (70 points):
Get all Perfects in the game.
Truly Fearless (25 points):
Get Perfects in the Fearless rank.
World Rage (35 points):
Complete all Road Rage events with Perfect ratings.
Wreck Reckless (15 points):
Get all Perfects in the Reckless rank.
Your Opinion Counts (10 points):
Recommend a Burnout Clip.
If you have any more cheats that you know and I didn't include here I'll be really grateful if you add it in a comment.
The Halo 3.5 Conspiracy Theory
As an almost complete departure from my normal content, I wanted to share a theory I had about Halo 3. This post contains some very mild spoilers, so if you're still not a good way through the campaign and trying to avoid EVERY spoiler, you may want to wait before reading it.
Spoiler Dead Space
Anyone who's played most or all of the campaign solo knows that you only play as Master Chief, and the Arbiter is around as an NPC some of the time (co-op is different, but I believe that that's placement of convenience rather than story cannon). In fact, the "dropping" of the Arbiter story line has been complained about in a number of reviews. This leads me to the theory:
There will be a Halo 3.5. Or Halo 3-2. Or Halo 3: Directors' Cut.
The storyline will basically be the Arbiter's cannon story during the activities of Halo 3, filling in all the gaps of absence in the Chief's escapade. And after all, why not? It would only be addition to the story, which would take a comparatively small development time. It might even be able to be sold as downloadable content off the marketplace. And it would make even more money off negligible changes to the Halo 3 engine. And then they can re-sell "Halo 3: Game of the Year Edition" with the Halo 3 and Halo 3.5 content. Yes, it's a very Bethesda-esque route (much like Oblivion has done), and it's one Bungie avoided in the past (given the theory that Halo 1.5 would be released with Xbox Live multiplayer). But it could happen, and that's just my theory.
Xbox360 Assassin's Creed release date
Ubisoft’s updated release schedule shows Assassin’s Creed for PC has been delayed until early 2008. Console owners shouldn’t worry about their Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 versions, those have a release date on November 13th, 2007.
To quote: “One of the most anticipated video games of the year comes to the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and the PlayStation 3 computer entertainment system in November, and to PC in early 2008.”
For everyone anticipating the new action-adventure game, Ubisoft just released a new trailer titled “Altair Was Here.”
Halo 3 cheats
Unlockables:
Special Ending:
If you beat the game on Legendary mode, you will get a special, extended ending. Keep in mind that you only have to beat the final stage on Legendary mode, and not necessarily the rest of the game, in order to unlock this ending.
Unlock the following Elite armor permutations by fulfilling the requirement listed:Ascetic (Body) - Get the Up Close and Personal Achievement
Ascetic (Head) - Get the Steppin' Razor Achievement
Ascetic (Shoulders) - Get the Overkill Achievement
Commando (Body) - Get the Triple Kill Achievement
Commando (Head) - Get the Overkill Achievement
Commando (Shoulders) - Get the Killing Frenzy Achivement
Flight (Body) - Complete Tsavo Highway (on Heroic or Legendary)
Flight (Head) - Complete the campaign mode (on Legendary or Heroic)
Grunt Birthday Party (Located: Crow's Nest):
If you manage to get a headshot on a Grunt, the Grunt will explode.
Spartan Armor Permutations:
EOD (Body) - Complete Tsavo Highway (on Legendary)
EOD (Head) - Complete the campaign mode (on Legendary)
EOD (Shoulders) - Complete The Ark (on Legendary)
EVA (Body) - Complete Tsavo Highway (on Normal, Heroic, or Legendary)
EVA (Head) - Complete the campaign mode (on Normal)
EVA (Shoulders) - Complete The Ark (on Normal, Heroic, or Legendary)
Mark V (Head) - Get the UNSC Spartan Achievement
ODST (Head) - Get the Spartan Graduate Achievement
Rogue (Head) - Get the Spartan Officer Achievement
Scout (Body) - Get the Too Close to the Sun Achievement
Scout (Head) - Get the Used Car Salesman Achievement
Scout (Shoulders) - Get the We're in for Some Chop Achievement
Security (Head) - Get 1,000 Gamerscore Points
Security (Shoulders) - Get 750 Gamerscore Points
Gold Skull Locations:
Black Eye (Located: Crow's Nest)
When activated, you will have to battle enemies with melee tactics to regain shield energy.
Catch (Located: The Storm)
When activated, enemies will throw more grenades.
Famine (Located: The Ark)
When activated, dropped weapons will hold less ammunition.
Fog (Located: Floodgate)
When activated, the motion tracker disappears.
Iron (Located: Sierra 117)
When activated, you will be sent back to the beginning of the stage you're on when you die instead of to the last checkpoint.
Mythic (Located: Halo)
When activated, all enemies will have twice as much health.
Thunderstorm (Located: The Covenant)
When activated, enemies will be of a higher rank.
Tilt (Located: Cortana)
When activated, enemies will become more resilient to your attacks.
Tough Luck (Located: Tsavo Highway)
When activated, enemies are skilled at getting away from projectiles such as grenades.
Skull Collecting:
While collecting skulls, keep in mind that you have to start the stage from the beginning (not from a checkpoint), but once you acquire the skull you're seeking, you can save and quit at any time without finishing the stage. This will allow you to collect skulls without having to worry about finishing the stage successfully.
On the second level of the campaign, when you're escorting characters to their ships, you can head the wrong away from where you're supposed to go to complete your mission. If you do, you'll run into two characters (separated by a door) having a humorous conversation.
Halo 3 tricks
Trigger Red
Whether you're trying to differentiate an enemy troop from an ally at a distance, or you're scanning the thickly armored legs of a Scarab, let your reticle guide you. If it turns red, let it rip.
Click here for Halo 3 Full Coverage
High Ground
So often the fields of battle in Halo 3 take place on hillsides or near cliffs. Even indoors, you can often hop atop boxes, or climb a ramp or stairs to a second level. Gain the high ground whenever possible and you'll have a much easier time dispatching enemies and avoiding return fire.
Brutes First
Your primary focus in combat should be to pick off the most powerful enemies first. Usually, this means Brutes. Because Brutes tend to travel in packs, save your grenades and even rocket launcher fire for clearing out entire packs of these formidable opponents. The level design may also assist here. Look closely for exploding canisters near any tight-knit group of enemies.
Run 'em Over
Of course, a well-trained marine can dish out mayhem and death with the rear-mounted chain gun, but don't dismiss the devastation you can cause by simply running over your enemies. Entire camps of Covenant baddies can be cleared in a hurry, whether you're piloting a Warthog, Ghost, Brute Chopper, or even the slower moving Spectre.
Smack Em'… Unless
Melee strikes have always been a staple of the Halo games and Halo 3 is no exception. You can still find great success with one-hit kills when rifle-butting an enemy from behind. That said, you may want to rely a touch less on melee attacks as you do battle with the enormously powerful Brutes. There's more thunder in their fists than even Master Chief's, so watch out.
'Nade Tactics
Proper grenade use is always helpful, but on Hard or Legendary difficulty, it's critical.
Plasma: The plasma grenade's greatest strength is its ability to stick to its target, so use these only when you're close enough for an accurate throw.
Spike: While the spike grenades don't travel as far, they do have a shorter fuse. Launch one at the feet of a group of enemies. They won't have time to flee outside the blast radius.
Brute T-Bone
The Brute Chopper shreds delightfully through enemy vehicles, but if you want to score a guaranteed kill, slam into the side of your enemy. Fender benders and head-on collisions may do damage, but a proper T-bone collision guarantees the most devastating results.
Riding Buddies
Whether it's the fast-traveling Mongoose, the more fearsome Warthog or a Brute Prowler, never ride alone if you can help it. Of course, this is most effective when playing co-op, but you may be surprised at the accuracy of the A.I.-controlled gunners. When entering a vehicle, always wait a second for a buddy to hop onboard.
Open Regeneration
The Halo 3 Regenerator offers Master Chief a quintessential Rambo moment, as you can safely drop the Regenerator (it constantly replenishes your shield) on the field of battle and unleash your wrath without fear of a swift death. This is a great tool to open up a large-scale battle, but make sure you're well within your weapon's effective range before employing this tactic.
Opposite Your Troops
Master Chief is worth an entire platoon of highly-skilled marines on his own, so don't clump up your forces by sticking too close to your allies. Instead, let your marines, and even the Arbiter and his Elites when they're with you, draw the attention of enemy forces. Then, slide along the opposite side of the battlefield to handle additional enemy forces, as well as to flank the foes with which your comrades are engaged.
MMOG = Massive MoneyLaundering Online Game?
A point I brought up in my 2005 paper, which was recently touched on by Symantec according to an article, is the possibility for money laundering through MMO games. The idea is simple enough: push money through virtual transactions to lose the connection to crime. According to the report:
"... a criminal enterprise could open several thousand MMOG accounts. Each could be used to trade with other players in the purchase or sale of in-game assets, the funds from which would ultimately be withdrawn from the accounts. Since thousands of accounts may engage in millions of transactions, each with small profits or losses, it would be difficult to trace the true source of the funds when they are withdrawn. These transactions can be conducted worldwide without the oversight that typically accompanies international bank remittances. In fact, in February 2007, China's central bank and finance ministries called upon companies to stop trading QQ coins and virtual currencies, presumably to curb the unregulated exchange of currency."
I estimate that Symantec's solution to the problem is with greater security and client verification. However, a more simplistic approach would be taxation on virtual revenue, even if the concept is opposed by players. Think of it this way: Right now, income from sales in MMO games is supposed to be reported as ordinary income. Many people neglect to do this whatsoever. If, instead, there was automatic reporting to the IRS (or other country's tax agency, based on the residence of the player) of income derived from MMO sales, then the tax agency would know to expect payment from said individuals. Moreover, it ties a person to the MMO account, eliminating the possibility of spreading one person over 100 accounts and going unnoticed. Of course, this would have to be based on a cash out value, as has been suggested before by both myself and Bryan Camp. In any event, the process of losing money in the transaction generally makes different things less appealing as money laundering vehicles, and thus virtual taxation could be one answer to the problem.
[Via Kotaku]
Microsoft replace scratched Halo 3 discs
Following reports that defective packaging for the limited edition of Halo 3 allow the game to come loose and become scratched, Microsoft has added the game to its disc replacement program.
Under the regular terms of the program, consumers can get a replacement disc for certain titles published by Microsoft, provided that they return the disk to the company along with a small fee.
The current fee is USD 20, GBP 10, or 15 Euro.
For the Halo 3 Limited Edition and Essentials discs, consumers will be able to receive a replacement at no charge through December 31, 2007.
Microsoft has not yet commented on the percentage of Limited Edition discs being scratched, or any changes being made in the packaging.
Click here to go to Microsoft's official disc replacement page.
Click here to go to Halo 3 review, trailer and release coverage.
Halo 3 Release!
Initial numbers for sale quantities of Halo 3 are coming in from a number of sources. The Xbox 360 exclusive title is said to have sold through 1.8 million copies during the first 8 hours of release. This quantity breaks down to about 1.5 million units sold through pre-orders, and additional 300,000 copies sold at impulse (without pre-order).
It is estimated (assuming this trend continues) that a total of 950,000 fresh units will be sold within the first 24 hours, bringing the grand total to 2.45 million units (950,000 + 1,500,000). Microsoft has released the game in three SKUs ranging in price from 59.99 to 129.99. It is estimated that the average sale price of the title is currently at about 78 USD. Thus, Microsoft has already made an estimated 140.4 million dollars (1.8 million x 78.00 USD). Microsoft is thus expected to cash in about 191.1 million dollars today (2.45 x 78.00 USD).
Congratulations are in order as this will place Halo 3 at the top of entertainment’s highest day one sales list.
Buy HD DVD player and get 5 HD DVDs for free
- Apollo 13
- Seabiscuit
- The Chronicles of Riddick
- Casablanca
- Constantine
- Dukes of Hazzard
- Four Brothers
- Lara Croft: Tomb Raider
- Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow
- The Rundown
- Blazing Saddles
- U2: Rattle and Hum
- U-571
- The Perfect Storm
- We Were Soldiers
No ban for playing Halo 3
Microsoft confirms only its own employees are under scrutiny, not its paying customers.
Microsoft has confirmed it won't ban the Xbox Live accounts of those who have snagged a pre-release copy of Halo 3.
There were widespread panic, arm-waving and forum threads with far too many exclamation marks when word was going round that Microsoft had started banning those on Xbox Live who had played a pre-release copy of Halo 3. With copies floating around eBay, Argos breaking the release date and some rogue videogame stores in Norway also selling the game early, it turns out quite a few people have now appeared online with 'Recently played: Halo 3' showing up on their Xbox Live accounts.
This was followed by stories that Microsoft was banning those who had played Halo 3 before its release date and even if those players had played it without being connected to Xbox Live, Microsoft would be able to backdate when Halo 3 was played when they did connect to Live and catch them that way. This sparked a spate of "BIG BROTHER IS WATCHING YOU LOL" reactions but Microsoft is only banning its own employees for breaking Halo 3's street date, not you.
In other words: if you do have a pre-release copy of Halo 3, you're safe. Though it's best wait for the actual release date and join in the euphoric fun and an entire community coming together to celebrate Halo at the same time, no?
Project Gotham Racing 4 overview
Microsoft Game Studios and Bizarre Creations announced that Project Gotham Racing® 4 (PGR 4), the latest installment of the best-selling and award-winning racing franchise, has been released to manufacturing. The team also confirmed that the game's new web site is up and running. Visit http://www.pgrnations.com/ for all the latest news, features, and updates from the PGR universe and the team at Bizarre.
Get ready to be rewarded with a growing fanbase that cheers you on, reacts to you
r every move, and supports you through victory. Just imagine hearing the roar of the crowd as you cross the finish line with your own style and flair.Dynamic weather system: Now racing through a track can mean facing an unexpected rain storm or snow flurries in the middle of a race. This results in changing physics when powering around a corner on the wet or icy surface in Shanghai and St. Petersburg or any of the game’s 10 other locations.
Flair and driving style: Pass your opponent at full speed as you pump your fists and exhibit more emotion as you earn recognition with the revised Kudos system. The Kudos will be worthwhile too, because the new A.I. personalities will be able to perform bold new driving maneuvers as they race side by side with other drivers.
Iconic cars: New vehicles are lined up and ready to be driven, including :
Microsoft Reveals Forza Motorsport 2 Downloadable Car Pack
Isn't it good to own an Xbox 360? No matter what, each day brings something new up on Xbox Live Marketplace and this day is no different as there's some new Forza Motorsport 2 content available and waiting to be downloaded. What could it be....? Cars, of course! 10 in total and from the world's most famous manufacturers.
The official report coming straight from Microsoft's Game Studios today says that 10 brand new racers and muscle cars have been thrown in a downloadable car pack for "Forza Motorsport 2," becoming available for grabs as soon as this weekend, via Xbox Live Marketplace. However, Microsoft clarifies exactly what is a free download and what isn't: To get fans warmed up, we're offering a rally inspired hot little European hatch the 2007 SEAT Leon Cupra as a FREE download to bolster the already extensive collection of "Forza" racers. For 400 Microsoft points, Forza fans can own the track taking laps in 10 great vehicles including a race ready turbo diesel (the Audi R10) and a low performance class inline 4 that’s an absolute tuner’s dream (the Honda Civic Si Coupe). Show your muscle with an American classic, the 1970 Dodge Challenger R/T or turn it up another notch behind the wheel of the 415 horsepower, 8,400 rpm 2007 Porsche GT3 RS.
And here's the full list of available cars:
2007 SEAT Leon Cupra (FREE DOWNLOAD)
2006 Audi R10 (#8 Audi Sport Team Joest) Prototype
1970 Dodge Challenger R/T Hemi
2006 Dodge Challenger Concept
2006 Honda Civic Si Coupe
2007 Honda Civic Type-R
1967 Lamborghini Miura P400
2006 Lamborghini Miura Concept
2007 Porsche 911 GT3 RS (997)
2007 Saturn Sky Red Line
2007 SEAT Leon Supercup
What do you say, any of those among your favorites? All right then, if you need more information on the newly announced downloadable car pack for Forza Motorsport 2, visit the game's official website right here. Have a good one!
Virtual Worlds Become Virtual Nations?
An interesting piece was recently posted on Virtually Blind by Israeli attorney Jonathan J. Klinger. The crux of his argument was:
For example, earlier this year, Michael Carlton, CEO of online sportsbook Victor Chandler, was arrested in Israel. An Israeli court asserted jurisdiction over Carlton, a foreign citizen, and stated that as long as a portion of the illegal activity (here, gambling) occurred in Israel, there is no need for universal jurisdiction, and the website operator is subjected to the Israeli law (State v. Carlton, Hebrew decision). The court stated that it was in Victor Chandler’s responsibility to bar all communication from Israel since the activity they offer is illegal for Israeli citizens to participate in.I, however, do not agree. Moreover, I believe the precedent set by Isreal should be looked at with disdain by the legal community. Take note here that I'm departing from an actual analysis, which the above quote limits itself to, and moving into theoretical alternatives that would generally be beneficial to all those involved.
Using the same rationale, any employee of Blizzard or Linden Lab could be subjected to the Israeli penal code, as they are allowing illegal conduct (under Israeli law) to take place on their servers. Blizzard could face harsher liability as it distributes World of Warcraft actively in Israel, while Second Life is only available for download.
The only solution to these legal problems is to separate players according to countries, or even states (as some state laws in the US differ regarding pornography and violence). Any other solution may cause a conflict of laws, and subject the industry to liability twice: the first is the constitutional tort, where legal expression is barred though there is no local legal reason to bar it (e.g. ageplay in the U.S.) and the second is potential criminal prosecution by another state which may prosecute company leaders for user actions that are actually legal in the home country of the company.
I want to begin with a meta-theoretical statement. The purpose of virtual worlds is to bring people together. As such, the solution that either people must be divided on geographical lines or game providers must be subjected to liability is a pure frustration of purpose. Of course, the concept of making a "virtual world" an actual nation is equally blasphemous. In fact, it seems at though negative consequences could easily result from creating "independent nations" within nations that exist on servers. So, what solutions are available to the problem? Clearly the social conscience of a person in Texas cannot be made to match a person in Isreal or Japan or France. That idea is equally impracticable, and in the same vein, the pipedream of creating "universal rules" to govern the internet is impracticable. Moreover, the idea that we allow complete free speech to govern our online worlds only gives rise to the most deplorable of content, as child predators would take refuge under the "free speech" of the digital world. There is also the final consideration that, ultimately, the server space is private property. The Grid belongs to Linden. Azeroth (all of the various iterations on the various servers) belongs to Blizzard.
So where does this leave possible solutions? Governing in-world conduct being left to the worlds owners, how should jurisdiction be handled? I think it is time for a paradigm shift an analyzing jurisdictional elements with virtual worlds. Put simply: Server location dictates jurisdiction. While this idea won't bode will with the "minimum contacts" proponents out there, the theory does have a logical base. Ultimately, the activity occurs on the server, not at the user end. I can click buttons all day long on my personal computer, but without the server end, there is no net effect. As such, the server is the critical component. This is the basis for a client-server model, and this is, in my opinion, how it should be treated under the law. This provides the maximum certainty for the developer.
This, of course, leaves the issue of performing an activity illegal in one country on a server located in another. Ultimately, issues like these will have to be resolved by the governments, rather than putting the developer in the line of fire or forcing the defeat of the purpose of virtual worlds. So, for example, if a 3rd world nation hosts "Child Porn: The Game," it will be up to the international community to pressure that country to abolish the game. (Moreover, with something as pernicious as child pornography, local governments could likely track subscriptions and users in order to find offenses in the local countries. I can't say I favor invasion of privacy, but I also can't say I oppose using any means necessary to remove dangerous predators from the streets.) On the other hand, with something as hotly debated as online gambling, rather than leaving the user and developer in difficult and awkward positions, it would have to be resolved between nations. Ultimately, either the moralists would win, or the simple positive economics would. In either case, the burden is on the government, or indirectly on society as a whole, rather than punishing the developer or the user based on what are largely ambiguous lines.
Will this paradigm shift happen? It seems doubtful given the overwhelming analysis of jurisdiction to the contrary. However, I think that we have reached a time in which the old analysis need to be seriously re-examined based on the dramatically different world and virtual worlds that technology has created.
[Via Virtually Blind]
Metanomics
I thought many of the readers out there might be interested in the Metanomics 2007 programs going on in Second Life. They are hosting a number of speakers, including my former professor Bryan Camp from the Texas Tech School of Law.
Those interested in the study of Metanomics should try to attend some of their seminars. For the uninitiated, their FAQ gives the following overview:
[Thanks to Robert Bloomfield for the tip!]“Metanomics” refers to the study of the business and policy aspects of the “metaverse” of virtual worlds. Metanomics can focus on issues arising within virtual worlds, such as how developers manage the economy of a game world (like World of Warcraft), or how residents of virtual worlds manage and regulate business. Metanomics also includes the study of how real-world businesses can use virtual worlds as part of their strategy, and how real-world law and regulation might apply to virtual-world activities. Finally, metanomics includes the use of virtual worlds as laboratories in which to study real-world business or policy issues.
Metanomics can take an "immersionist," "augmentationist," or "experimentalist" perspective. Immersionist metanomics attempts to understand business and policy issues from entirely within the virtual world in question, with little reference to the outside world. Augmentationist metanomics views the metaverse as simple an addition (augmentation) to the real world, and examines how its appearance affects business practice and regulatory policy. Experimentalist metanomics uses the metaverse as a laboratory in which to conduct controlled experiments that can tell us something new about the real world (such as eliminating capital gains taxes actually does increase investment and productivity).
Blazing Angels 2: Secret Missions of WWII review
Before the genre-leading beast that is Ace Combat arrives on the Xbox 360 later this year, another aeronautical sequel has landed in the form of Blazing Angels 2: Secret Missions of World War II.
The game's predecessor was a fairly mediocre release, which was dogged by its own choice of theme. In opting to focuses on military technology that was cutting edge sometime before rock 'n' roll hit the charts, the first Blazing Angels felt a little sluggish and unwieldy.
Perhaps in response to this, one of the most noteworthy additions to the second release in the series is the option to unlock, upgrade and fly a fairly substantial list of prototype aircraft loosely themed on unrealised designs of the era, with super-responsive handling and agility. Most are also fitted with semi-fictitious WWII weaponry, such as homing missiles, which clearly weren't in everyday use in the famous dogfights of WWII.
The artistic take on the grim reality of the Second World War also extends into some of the 18 sizable single-player missions that make up Blazing Angels' main content. Over the skies of Egypt, with the Pyramids resplendent below you, you will face a huge zeppelin foe, armed to the hilt with machine gun turrets and spewing forth waves of enemy fighters in a scene more reminiscent of a boss battle in classic shoot-'em-up 1945 than a typical arcade flight-sim.Do not be mislead though, as Blazing Angels 2 is certainly not an outright 'alternate-reality' WWII release like the forthcoming Turning Point: Fall from Liberty. In fact the vast majority of the emphasis of Secret Missions of WWII is on more realistic content. Again, the controls are wonderfully responsive and simple, keeping things instinctive, and for those looking for something of a challenge, perhaps a little easy.
Staying with the controls for the moment, there is also no way of locking your crosshair on to you rivals. Instead the camera can be locked-on by holding the left shoulder buttons. At first this is particularly difficult to get used to, as aircraft sweep behind you causing the camera to pan right round to your plane's nose, but soon you'll be wondering why this excellent feature doesn't appear in more flying games.
Along with the number of unlockable extra planes, the most substantial improvement to Blazing Angels is the visuals, which really do impress. The first game on the Xbox 360 felt very much like a direct port of the Xbox version, with very little extra attention put into graphical quality.This time around Blazing Angels looks superb. The planes lack the polish of their contemporaries in Ace Combat 6, but the ground below you is incredibly detailed and well developed. Sweeping over Paris, famous landmarks are numerous, positioned with some accuracy and realised in fabulous detail. Around them hundreds of streets lined with 3D houses and rows of trees twist and wind, parks are alive with people and boats bob on the gentle ebb and flow of the water. Blazing Angels 2 really does boast one of the best landscapes seen in a game set in the skies, and at times its enchanting detail and varied layout can draw you in a little too close.
Hidden stunt tokens and other secondary targets that unlock extra content are also tucked between buildings and below bridges, encouraging replays and tempting you to clip your wings on the ground while exploring hard-to-reach areas. As well as the physical intricacies and stylistic flair of each level, the skies are also very pretty indeed. Clouds look very realistic, and change in colour and texture throughout the game, dependent on the sun's position in the sky. As the air fills with planes, things begin to look immense. A fog does hang heavy in the distance, hiding distant detail, but otherwise there is very little to complain about in terms of Blazing Angels 2's appearance - aside from a bit of screen tearing here and there. The sound is closer to average and, though of decent quality, it regularly falls back on the tired old stereotypes of jolly, posh Brits and the kind of score we've heard all too often in Medal of Honor games.
Sadly, when it comes to gameplay, the missions begin to feel slightly repetitive and occasionally are drawn out. Most see you destroying waves of incoming planes before moving on to a larger target, and all too often feel very pedestrian Those that ask you to perform more unusual tasks such as stealth kills feel somewhat awkward and unworkable within the genre's setting. The multiplayer is great however, and filled with opportunities to tussle in the skies above beautifully realised versions of Rome and the Himalayas.
Blazing Angels 2: Secret Missions of WWII trailer:
While Blazing Angels 2 has its faults, it is still a decent title and a marked improvement on the first instalment from Ubisoft's Romania studio. If you're looking for a complex, challenging flying game then you're better off spending your cash elsewhere, but if you fancy some light-hearted arcade action and know you'll make use of the multiplayer mode, or just have some leftover enthusiasm for WWII games, this could be the one for you.
Unboxing Halo ActionClix
I recently got some awesome Halo ActionClix from Wizkids in the mail. I was really excited to get these not just as a collector but as a gamer in general. I have never had the chance to play a Wizkids miniature game and I am looking forward to sitting down at the coffee table with a friend and checking this series out.
One thing I can say is that these minis are extremely detailed. I was very impressed with the overall package of these booster sets. I am already hooked and plan on buying more of these in time.
My ActionClix photo gallery.
Oklahoma Video Game Law Defeated
The Video Game Industry can now add Oklahoma to their list of victories against game laws, as an opinion was released today in Entertainment Merchants Association v. Henry, Case No. 5:06-cv-00675 (W.D. Okla.). The opinion grants the plaintiff's request to have the enforcement of the act permanently enjoined.
The opinion makes it quite clear that there is no grounds to support this law. For those unfamiliar, the Oklahoma version of the law placed a $1,000 fine on any dissemination of video games with "inappropriate violence" to minors. This language even included a parent giving a game to a minor. The opinion made a few distinct points on the issues at hand:
1. Video games are protected speech. No particular peculiarities of the medium nor amount of user control can change this legal fact.
2. Regulating violence is a content based restriction on free speech, and therefore presumptively invalid and subject to strict scrutiny. Violence, unlike sexual content, is not regulating obscenity.
3. Video game violence does not compel youth to commit violent acts, nor is there "substantial evidence" of a link between video game violence and youth violence. To quote the opinion on the latter, "Beyond Defendants’ generalized statements, there is a complete dearth of legislative findings, scientific studies, or other rationale in the record to support the passage of the Act. Defendants’ argument that “common sense” dictates that playing violent video games “is not good for children,” and that the onus is on Plaintiffs to prove otherwise, completely fails. (See Defs.’ Resp. at 9.) The First Amendment does not allow prohibitions based on “common sense.” See Kendrick, 244 F.3d at 578; Granholm, 426 F. Supp. 2d at 663-64."
4. The standard on violence in this act was so very vague that it was fatal to the act itself, in addition to the numerous other flaws pointed out. "The Act “does not satisfy the rigorous constitutional standards that apply when government attempts to regulate expression. Where First Amendment freedoms are at stake . . . precision of drafting and clarity of purpose are essential. These prerequisites are absent
here.” Erznoznik, 422 U.S. at 217-18."
The question from here is whether the government officials in Oklahoma see fit to continue to waste taxpayer money and the court's time in addressing this issue, as California seems determined to do. I have long supported the proposition that parents should be controlling their children's media consumption, not the government, and this seems to be another step in the right direction.
Bioshock xbox 360 review.
When BioShock was announced, few would have known the impact it would have on the gaming landscape and few would have known just how well it would turn out. Coming from the guys behind the two System Shock PC games, there was history but there was also unknown. This was a brand new take on the 'Shock' style of games and both System Shock 1 and 2 were very complex, perhaps too complex, for today's more casual gaming world.
However 2K Games have proven us all wrong and BioShock has not only turned out to be a contender for game of the year but perhaps the first game to really make you buy a next generation console. Yes, the game really is worth a couple of hundred bucks if you have to fork that out.
BioShock is a revolution in the shooter genre that will forever change the expectations for the FPS. Going beyond "run and gun corridors," "monster-closet AIs" and static worlds, BioShock creates a living, unique and unpredictable FPS experience. BioShock is the Shooter 2.0!
After your plane crashes into icy uncharted waters, you discover a rusted bathysphere and descend into Rapture, a city hidden beneath the sea.
Constructed as an idealistic society for a hand picked group of scientists, artists and industrialists, the idealism is no more. Now the city is littered with corpses, while wildly powerful guardians roam the corridors, mutated little girls scavenge the dead, and genetically modified citizens ambush you at every turn. Players must ultimately make meaningful choices and mature decisions, culminating in the grand question: do you exploit the innocent survivors of Rapture...or save them?
Win bunch of cool swag while waiting in line for Halo 3 !
Hey folks, im hosting a contest in the 360style.net forums that you should definitely check into if you are a collector and attending a Halo 3 Midnight Madness launch line.
Here is the grand prize:
Custom 360style.net Tshirt with your gamertag.
Medal of Honor: Airborne for Xbox 360
Super Ultra Extremely Mega Rare Swag Pack !
* Swag Pack includes:
Geometry Wars Glow in the Dark Stars [from pax 2007]
Mountain Dew Game Fuel wrist sweatband [from e3 2006]
3 Xbox 360 Pins [from 'Crackdown' Event at MS]
Viva Pinata sticker set ['Largest Pinata Party 2005']
Rockstar Sticker [from pax 2007]
Kane & Lynch Sticker [from pax 2007]
EA Rockband Drum Sticker [from pax 2007]
Get all the contest details here !
Introducing the Xbox Mini
Call of Duty 4: MW Collectors Edition Annouced
Everyone loves collector's editions, Actvision will be releasing CoD4 M.W. on November 4th get ready to fork over a good chunk of money for a good game.
"Each Limited Collector's Edition includes a special hardcover book featuring exclusive concepts, never-before-seen imagery and final artwork from the award-winning team that details the breath-taking action from the soldier to the satellite.
The Xbox 360 edition also takes gamers behind-the-scenes with a bonus DVD containing more than four hours of interviews and features, an exclusive documentary exploring the British S.A.S from World War II to modern day, and a series of "making of" vignettes highlighting Infinity Ward's research, technology and story development for Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare."
Source: CharlieOscarDelta
Medal of Honor Airborne review.
The Medal of Honor series is now into its eight year with the 11th title, Medal of Honor: Airborne released on Xbox 360. The franchise has attracted a huge fan base over the years due to its cinematic qualities and the chance its given gamers to get to grips with some authentic war time weapons, but earlier this year following the release of the, quite frankly, awful Medal of Honor: Vanguard, I really did think the series was looking old and ragged and secretly hoped that I'd never see the franchise re-emerge from its sorry looking state. But, while I was getting all in a fluster over EA's lack of innovation in their World War II shooter, it appears the team must have been busy putting all of their efforts into the next-gen version of the franchise…
Medal of Honor: Airborne doesn't reinvent the first person shooter genre, like they'd like us to believe, but it does look and feel so much fresher than the last game in the series. Thankfully, many of the frustrations have been ironed out, leaving the series totally reinvigorated and standing proudly shoulder to shoulder next to other top next-gen shooters.
It's always a good sign when you have the motivation to complete the game that you're reviewing. I never did finish playing Medal of Honor Vanguard - it was just too frustrating . I only played to a point where I thought I knew enough to review it. But, while playing MOH: Airborne, I barely glanced at the clock and kept battling through to the end. I’m delighted to say that the series has been injected with a much needed dose of pace. 
In fact, so much so that, just when I realized how much fun I was having playing the game, it was abruptly over after merely 5 hours of gameplay. The time it takes to complete MOH: Airborne is undoubtedly an issue especially when you're paying top whack for a videogame, but though I've mentioned it, I really don't want it to put you off the experience of playing the most enjoyable World War II shooter I've played for some time.
The Blizzard Machinima Rules
Following in the footsteps of Microsoft, Blizzard unveiled their own "Machinima Rules" late last week. The approach taken by these rules, however, is the complete opposite of Microsoft's approach in my opinion.
First and foremost, their primary concern (like Microsoft's) is that the use isn't commercial. Rather than going the strictly non-profit route, Blizzard essentially gives the stamp of approval to the method that Rooster Teeth made popular (even though Rooster Teeth has no Blizzard-derived machinima at this time). Specifically, there has to be a free version of the video available, even if there is a pay version with, say, better download speed or, I assume, in higher resolution. There's also no restriction on donations.
Second, there is no restrictions on elements of the game. You're either allowed to make your movie or not. So, the sound effects and background music appear to be fair game.
Third, Blizzard has placed a pretty harsh, but simple, content restriction that all movies keep within the "T (Teen)" or "PG-13" type content level. (Blizzard specifically cites "T," but it seems relatively safe to assume that that equates to a PG-13 rating.) While this is much stricter than Microsoft's restriction, it's also a fairly established bright line. According to the ESRB, "Titles rated T (Teen) have content that may be suitable for ages 13 and older. Titles in this category may contain violence, suggestive themes, crude humor, minimal blood, simulated gambling, and/or infrequent use of strong language."
Fourth, Blizzard explicitly allows the use of movies in various contests, but a license is required. However, it seems that as long as the content rules have been followed, a license should come with little resistance.
Fifth, educational use is specifically allowed. I find this comforting, but many people would argue that "fair use" would allow educational use regardless. "Fair use" can be read narrowly or broadly, and I think the clarification here does a lot of good in that regard.
Sixth, they place a 10 second restriction on sponsor inclusion. This seems to go toward the "no commercial use" ends more than anything, and I expect few will have a real problem with this restriction.
Finally, they make no mention of a commercial license per se, but do give a specific contact e-mail address for questions.
With Microsoft and Blizzard on board, I am left to wonder how long before other companies follow suit. I also wonder if Microsoft may follow some of Blizzard's leads in the revisions of their rules which are supposedly being drafted. In any case, this is generally good news for the various WoW machinimators out there.
[Via WOWInsider, Machinima for Dummies]
Microsoft Machinima Rules Updates
Just a few, new key updates:
1. There will soon be a standard contact form for commercial licenses.
2. There has been some mild clarification on reverse engineering, but still nothing definite. In short, if you can extract assets without doing anything illegal or abnormal to the game, it may be fine. A more detailed description is available in the original post.
[Via Machinima for Dummies]
A Simple Question.
My T-Shirt Design Monkey's over at Narcoleptic Insomnia have come up with a new shirt that asks a very Important Question That I, myself, have asked countless times:
A Simple Design for a Simple Question.
--Capt.Capcom
LINKS: NARCOLEPTIC INSOMNIA PRODUCTIONS
Halo 3 Special edition Xbox 360 release in Europe
Halo 3 Special edition Xbox 360
Microsoft announced the date of release of the Halo 3 Special edition Xbox 360 in Europe .
The Halo 3 Special edition Xbox 360 package includes :- Halo 3 Special edition console with an authentic Spartan green and gold finish and a HD MI port.
- Halo 3 Special edition wireless controller
- Halo 3 Special edition 20GB hard drive
- Halo 3 Special edition wired headset
- Halo 3 Special edition Gamer Pictures and Theme (Exclusive download via Xbox LIVE)
- Component HD AV cable
- Ethernet cable
- Play and charge kit
- Xbox Live Silver membership
- Xbox Live Gold membership for one month
It's a great way for Halo fans to show their allegiance to one of the most popular and successful entertainment franchises ever.!!!!
Check this link for all info about the game itself.
Xbox Live connection issues with Eircom and Netopia
Do you face any issue with your Xbox Live connection?
Is your internet service provider Eircom?
Are you using a Netopia router or modem?
You might face some issues with Xbox Live connection when your internet service provider is Eircom and your router or modem is a Netopia one.
Actually this might happen to you because your router needs configuration.
So let's go through the steps to do this router's configuration and you'll find your Xbox Live connection fine after this.
- First we'll need to go on the PC.
- And open the internet Explorer and type 192.168.1.254 in the address bar. Now you've accessed Netopia's settings page.
- On the menu to the left you'll find Firewall, click on it and select Low then save the changes.
- On the menu to the left you'll find Expert Mode, click on it then Yes to enter Expert Mode.
- On the menu to the left click on Configure, then Advanced then NAT.
- Now you'll find Service Name so scroll down the menu until you find Xbox Live Games. Now click Enable then Enable again.
- On the menu to the left click on Configure then Connection.
- Then on the main page scroll down until you find UPnP and check that box.
- Then Save.
- And finally turn off the Netopia router then turn it back on again.
Now you'll go on Xbox Live and everything would be working fine.
I hope this helps you.
And Enjoy Xbox Live...!!!
Xbox 360 3 Red Lights Fix - More Info On The Xbox 360 3 Red Lights Fix!
Firstly the Xbox 360 3 Red Lights Fix does seem to be a big problem with alot of people finding the consoles freezing and rebooting or shtting down during gameplay.
The main thing to remember is that Microsoft do offer free repair if your xbox is still in warranty and if you are searching for an Xbox 360 3 Red Lights Fix then it is worth bearing in mind.
The only problem with the Xbox 360 3 Red Lights Fix that Microsoft offer is that it can take 4-6 weeks to get your console back at the moment due to all the repairs that they are having to do at the moment.
The good news is that you can do the Xbox 360 3 Red Lights Fix youself at home if you find yourself a good guide that will show you how to get rid of this problem that mostly is due to the 360 overheating!
For more info on an Xbox 360 3 Red Lights Fix and the reccomended guide to carry out the fix yourself click the link below:
Xbox 360 3 Red Lights Fix
Technorati Tags: xbox 360 3 red lights fix, xbox 360 3 red lights
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Rainbow Six Vegas Custom Faceplate
Source: ebay
Burger King - "Where's your god now" Faceplate
"Nothing strikes fear into the hearts of your competition like knowing your guardian angel is none other than the King... the Burger King, that is. Parodied off a widely circulated and hilarious internet photo, you bring tha King to your next fragfest." -SG
Source: ebay
Gold Zelda Themed Xbox 360 Custom Faceplate
Check out these 2 awesome Zelda themed faceplates that Spaceghost2k from the TeamXbox forums has created. With every new custom faceplate he designs he gets better.
Source: eBay
The BAN HAMMER Strikes!
I haven't been able to post many Blogs, due to my incredible addiction to the Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare Multi Player Beta. But I feel I needed to address the recent surge of Xbox Live Banning Stories that have been surging the Internet.
As many web savvy folks know, It seems some people have been banned from Xbox Live until the magical date of 12/31/9999 ... or basically one day before New Year's Day 10,000 AD!!! This is due to these (Very Few) naughty players who have been cheating to get into both the Call of Duty 4 Beta without a token or a Closed Halo 3 Beta (code named Epsilon), that they had NO BUSINESS obtaining. I'm not clear on the actual details of how players were able to do this, but I do know that its a Violation of the Terms of Service and these folks got their Live accounts Banned until... well let's just say Forever.
Don't believe the huge out cry though... this only happened to a small handful of players, and Microsoft didn't ban Thousands of Accounts like some websites are reporting. Some Websites are even reporting that these players got Advanced copies of Halo 3 from Local Best Buy Stores... that too is wrong.
Regarding Halo 3... I say for shame! A well deserved Ban on these players for cheating. The game comes out in LESS THAN 30 Days... which is A LOT sooner than 12/31/9999, it just wasn't worth it.
As for the the COD4 beta, the best advice I can give in a situation like this is try and be patient. Microsoft knows you all want to play, but PLEASE be patient cause if you break the rules, you can be banned. Look Even I got a Token, and If I can wait for one, so can you!
--Capt.Capcom
SOURCES: MAJOR NELSON
XBOX Terms of Service
Todd Mcfarlane Interview
Source: Teamxbox
The ESRB "Review Process"
A recent PC Magazine interview sheds some light on the ESRB rating process, which leaves a lot to be desired. While I am a firm proponent of industry self-regulation, I have often been puzzled at the ratings some games get. For example, when I saw that Smash Bros. Melee was rated "T for Teen," my immediate thought was "What next, Barbie's Mystic Horse Adventure 7 being rated M?" For those not familiar, while Smash Bros. is a "fighting" game, it's no more violent than a typical Saturday morning cartoon and contains no blood at all, whatsoever. In any event, now that the ESRB has stated how the games are "rated," it makes more sense.
To summarize the interview, game publishers send in a DVD of selected scenes and a lot of paperwork to get the game rated. In fact, the process is outlined in detail on the ESRB website. The point being that the ratings board never plays the games. Yes, you read that right. The people who rate video games do not play the game they are rating. It would be the equivalent of basing movie ratings on a form and a trailer. Context would be wholly absent.
I can see the logic the ESRB is using. First, playing the games would require a release candidate, which could delay the process. Second, it would take their "trained reviewers" much longer to play through the games in full than it would to review some paperwork and a DVD. Third, and finally, it's entirely possible that some, if not a large section, of the reviewers may not be able to complete the games at all. Moreover, the system they have going has rarely been faulted (see Hot Coffee).
On the other hand, I get the impression that ratings for media content are more accurate when the reviewer takes the content in context and on the whole, rather than seeing mere snippets. Perhaps the better approach is to have the ESRB hire "designated gamers," and have the reviewers watch the game being played for some period of time in addition to the forms and DVDs in order to contextualize the game. Perhaps then Smash Bros. Melee would have been rated a more appropriate E or E10+ rather than T. On the other hand, perhaps the powers that be would just assume most games be rated a tier higher than the content actually is, either to give parents more discretion or to insulate themselves from complaints. In any event, with the recent Manhunt 2 controversy, I expect that this issue will likely be blown well out of proportion by certain people in the media and politics. If anything, it creates a harsher rating system, not a weaker one.
[Thanks Jonathan!]
[EDIT: Reader Andrew Eisen, in the comments, points out: "Additionally, ESRB staff, including raters (time-permitting), play the final version of both hand-picked and randomly selected games to verify that all the materials provided by the game's publisher during the rating process were accurate and complete."
My thought is that, while true, and a new addition to the process, it still isn't for the purpose of actually rating the game, or putting elements in context. It's just like a double-check once the game is rated, and only occurs sometimes rather than on all games rated.]