Saturday, December 2, 2006
Which way are mobile phone games heading?
Aside online games and static game devices like Playstation, mobile games are the next most popular games around now.
The popularity has grown so big that mobile operators are competing against each other by offering their subscribers loads of both free and paid games for their pleasure. Not only mobile operators, cell phone manufacturers are also pre-programming their phones with a variety of games.
The growing interest in mobile gaming is producing a lot of benefits for the mobile industry. The operators are deriving sizable revenue from selling these games, software developers are regularly deriving royalties from phone manufacturers and the manufacturers themselves are cashing in heavily on revenue from subscribers. You will appreciate the level of income in this are if you consider the fact that by the year 2009, there would be 220 million mobile phone game fans in the world.
Now lets delve into the kinds of games we have around:
We have the embedded games that are factory coded into the phones, SMS games that operate by interacting with a SMS server upon which the game resides and browser games that are played online using the cell phones mini browser. Of all these games the cheapest and most popular is the inbuilt ones though the excitement offered by SMS and online games are not a deterrent to people who would spend every dime to get hooked on. The reason is browser games are of multi-media origin and can be compared to the type experienced on Playstation or xbox.
There are several ways to develop mobile games though the most popular language used are C++, Java and Binary Runtime Environment for Wireless (BREW) platform .
Out of these three, Java is the most popular method. The reason is obvious – java is widely supported by the web and supported by all the principal phone manufacturers. Again a medium like J2ME is open source and thus cheap to use as a development medium.
Java as we know it is highly portable across platforms and leaves developers with little worry that their program will not work on certain phones. Programmers choose this language platform because it does not interfere with programs running natively on the phone.
But in reality the future of mobile game development is in MIDP 2.0 API which is a compilation of high end applications that allow developers to come up with sophiscated and highly interactive games for fans. It is fast to use and ensures a stable program after compilation.
It is projected that this program, though futuristic, shall be the standard for mobile game developers for a long time as it exhibits versatility and the quick deployment – qualities programmer love.
The popularity has grown so big that mobile operators are competing against each other by offering their subscribers loads of both free and paid games for their pleasure. Not only mobile operators, cell phone manufacturers are also pre-programming their phones with a variety of games.
The growing interest in mobile gaming is producing a lot of benefits for the mobile industry. The operators are deriving sizable revenue from selling these games, software developers are regularly deriving royalties from phone manufacturers and the manufacturers themselves are cashing in heavily on revenue from subscribers. You will appreciate the level of income in this are if you consider the fact that by the year 2009, there would be 220 million mobile phone game fans in the world.
Now lets delve into the kinds of games we have around:
We have the embedded games that are factory coded into the phones, SMS games that operate by interacting with a SMS server upon which the game resides and browser games that are played online using the cell phones mini browser. Of all these games the cheapest and most popular is the inbuilt ones though the excitement offered by SMS and online games are not a deterrent to people who would spend every dime to get hooked on. The reason is browser games are of multi-media origin and can be compared to the type experienced on Playstation or xbox.
There are several ways to develop mobile games though the most popular language used are C++, Java and Binary Runtime Environment for Wireless (BREW) platform .
Out of these three, Java is the most popular method. The reason is obvious – java is widely supported by the web and supported by all the principal phone manufacturers. Again a medium like J2ME is open source and thus cheap to use as a development medium.
Java as we know it is highly portable across platforms and leaves developers with little worry that their program will not work on certain phones. Programmers choose this language platform because it does not interfere with programs running natively on the phone.
But in reality the future of mobile game development is in MIDP 2.0 API which is a compilation of high end applications that allow developers to come up with sophiscated and highly interactive games for fans. It is fast to use and ensures a stable program after compilation.
It is projected that this program, though futuristic, shall be the standard for mobile game developers for a long time as it exhibits versatility and the quick deployment – qualities programmer love.
Different Categories of Computer Games
Computer games can be categorized mainly into PC games that are played in your computer after installation using the CDs that contain the software, downloadable pc games, and the online games. Many websites provide you with the downloadable version of the PC games.
Category based on permission to use
The games can be categorized based on licenses. Some of the games are free and they can be downloaded on the internet free. Some pc games are free downloadable games but are shareware. Shareware games have limitations in the features. Some of the shareware can be used for only 30 days time and some are limited by the number of times that software is used. Trial versions of the software are also available which are time limited or feature limited.
Online Games
Online games are those that are played online. The user who is playing the online games should have an internet connection in his PC. You should be aware that your internet bill is on the rise during the time you play the online games. Yahoo games are one among the popular online games. Many websites provide you online games. Some of the sites require you to become a member to play these online games. Some charge you on per game basis for playing.
PC Games
PC Games are those that require an installation through a CD to play the pc games. Some of the games even require the CD to be present in the CD drive to play the game. These software CDs are to be purchased by the user. There are many pc games available like Tomb Raider that requires you to purchase the CD. Most of the games that contain Car races and Motorbike races require the software to be installed through the CD bought by you.
Downloadable PC Games
These games can be downloaded from the internet and can be installed in your computer. Most of the free game downloads are small enough to be downloaded from the internet. There websites like www.download.com that can be searched for free game downloads. A good search engine would give you thousands of links to free downloadable games.
What you need in your PC to play these games?
Most of the games can be played without any additional hardware. If you are having the latest configuration of the PC, which has the software pre-installed in your computer, then you might not need any additional software to be installed. Some of the online games require you to install plug-ins to run the online games. Plug-in is additional software that is required to run an application in your computer. You will be provided appropriate links to download the plug-ins required by your browser or your computer. You need to check the system requirements for the computer games that is downloaded or installed in your system and install them before you start playing the game.
Category based on permission to use
The games can be categorized based on licenses. Some of the games are free and they can be downloaded on the internet free. Some pc games are free downloadable games but are shareware. Shareware games have limitations in the features. Some of the shareware can be used for only 30 days time and some are limited by the number of times that software is used. Trial versions of the software are also available which are time limited or feature limited.
Online Games
Online games are those that are played online. The user who is playing the online games should have an internet connection in his PC. You should be aware that your internet bill is on the rise during the time you play the online games. Yahoo games are one among the popular online games. Many websites provide you online games. Some of the sites require you to become a member to play these online games. Some charge you on per game basis for playing.
PC Games
PC Games are those that require an installation through a CD to play the pc games. Some of the games even require the CD to be present in the CD drive to play the game. These software CDs are to be purchased by the user. There are many pc games available like Tomb Raider that requires you to purchase the CD. Most of the games that contain Car races and Motorbike races require the software to be installed through the CD bought by you.
Downloadable PC Games
These games can be downloaded from the internet and can be installed in your computer. Most of the free game downloads are small enough to be downloaded from the internet. There websites like www.download.com that can be searched for free game downloads. A good search engine would give you thousands of links to free downloadable games.
What you need in your PC to play these games?
Most of the games can be played without any additional hardware. If you are having the latest configuration of the PC, which has the software pre-installed in your computer, then you might not need any additional software to be installed. Some of the online games require you to install plug-ins to run the online games. Plug-in is additional software that is required to run an application in your computer. You will be provided appropriate links to download the plug-ins required by your browser or your computer. You need to check the system requirements for the computer games that is downloaded or installed in your system and install them before you start playing the game.
‘Online Games' - Most Relaxing Experience Want to Unwind – Play Online Games Increasing Audience for Online Gaming
Recently, many new online gaming services have been introduced. The world is having a visible affect on the online gaming industry, as more and more people turned towards playing and enjoying online games.
Games on net were once an imaginary phrase, but since the introduction of thousands of user friendly and easy operating games on the Internet, people are finding that fiction has become reality.
But, now you can read about what you want to learn and play free online games at paying no money. This is the ultimate playing way for anyone frightened by the complex layout of games. To play online games, read introduction to the games and play along.
Another main reason people want to play free online games is to get refreshed from the monotonous and hectic routine. With games on net, all of that excitement can be put into action. The people may choose to play free online games for recreation. Many people just want to chill out at the end of a day, and playing with a pool or slot machine etc. doesn't provide sufficient amusement.
According to a leading company’s survey on online gamers, women around or above age 40 are the informal gaming hardcore, playing games at an average of nearly nine hours a week. As far as men of all age group are concerned, they spend nearly six hours gaming while women of all ages average to around seven hours per week. This show increasing urges to play online games in all age groups and both genders.
The report also unveils an interesting point, 54 percent of adults said that they play games to wipe-off stress and the 20 percent of teens who play for just relaxation.
With free online games one can experience the excitement of playing, without the fear of losing any single cent. Many sites on the Internet also let you to post messages in forum and even facilitate to chat with friends while you play.
This is excellent news for gaming authors and websites, as the more-n-more people are moving towards playing online games on net, the more excitement around the globe will be.
All in all, it can be pretty relaxing experience and certainly it is becoming very popular time-pass.
Games on net were once an imaginary phrase, but since the introduction of thousands of user friendly and easy operating games on the Internet, people are finding that fiction has become reality.
But, now you can read about what you want to learn and play free online games at paying no money. This is the ultimate playing way for anyone frightened by the complex layout of games. To play online games, read introduction to the games and play along.
Another main reason people want to play free online games is to get refreshed from the monotonous and hectic routine. With games on net, all of that excitement can be put into action. The people may choose to play free online games for recreation. Many people just want to chill out at the end of a day, and playing with a pool or slot machine etc. doesn't provide sufficient amusement.
According to a leading company’s survey on online gamers, women around or above age 40 are the informal gaming hardcore, playing games at an average of nearly nine hours a week. As far as men of all age group are concerned, they spend nearly six hours gaming while women of all ages average to around seven hours per week. This show increasing urges to play online games in all age groups and both genders.
The report also unveils an interesting point, 54 percent of adults said that they play games to wipe-off stress and the 20 percent of teens who play for just relaxation.
With free online games one can experience the excitement of playing, without the fear of losing any single cent. Many sites on the Internet also let you to post messages in forum and even facilitate to chat with friends while you play.
This is excellent news for gaming authors and websites, as the more-n-more people are moving towards playing online games on net, the more excitement around the globe will be.
All in all, it can be pretty relaxing experience and certainly it is becoming very popular time-pass.
Tuesday, November 21, 2006
MIDWAY - NBA Ballers: Phenom - Sports Game - Xbox (GAMES)
Overview
NBA Ballers NBA Ballers is the only basketball videogame to deliver the pure essence of basketball by highlighting the excitement and intensity of the one-on-one confrontation, set within the alluring fantasy lifestyle of the NBA superstars. Featuring 60 current and 24 all- time player legends, NBA Ballers takes the game out of the arenas and into some of the most lavish NBA player fantasy "cribs" for an up-close and personal one-on-one experience. NBA Ballers features current NBA stars such as Tracy McGrady, Chris Webber and Kobe Bryant, and NBA Legends including George Gervin, Magic Johnson and Wilt Chamberlain.
* Lifestyle One-on-One Basketball - Only the freshest of the NBA and NBA Legends ball for cars, houses and, most importantly, the reputation as the top NBA baller. Compete in one-on-one tournaments hosted by some of the biggest NBA stars. Compete against multiple competitors in one-on- two, one-on-three and special rules matches.
* 60 Current NBA Stars and 24 NBA Legends - Take control of your favorite players such as Vince Carter, Allen Iverson, Chris Webber, Shaquille O'Neal, Jason Kidd, Kobe Bryant and more. NBA Legends featured include Larry Bird, Magic Johnson, Julius Irving, Bill Russell, Jerry West and Wilt Chamberlain among others.
* Realistic Player Attributes and Skills - Each NBA baller and NBA Legend has more than 10 different off-the-hook skills, which determines their player rating, creating a genuine representation of each NBA superstar's mad skills.
* In-Depth Create-A-Player Mode - Ball as the best! Personalize the game by hooking-up a player with the skills and attitude to take on the best ballers in the NBA. Select from multiple hairstyles, body types, on- court attitudes, gear, shoes, jewelry, planes, cars and your own posse to construct the ultimate one-on-one baller.
* Stunning Player Art and Animation - From cornrows to afros, one-on-one gameplay allows unparalleled player animation sets, delivering an incredible level of detail and nuances not found in other basketball videogames. Watch players' realistic reactions to intense dunks and amazing blocked shots, whether they perform the move or get embarrassed by it.
* The Story - "Welcome to NBA Ballers! The show takes you inside the spectacular lives of the players as they battle to determine, in intense one-on-one authentic gameplay, who is the best baller in the world."
* Multiple Game Modes -Take your player from "Rags to Riches" by building your own mansion with winnings, or battle through a ballers tournament to unlock your favorite NBA star and discover his moves, or try to make it through a season in the league, or survive "Last Man Standing" team mode.
* Announcers - Featuring in-game commentary by champion freestyle rapper MC Supernatural and on-the-court beats by the renowned DJ Rocky Rock.
* Explosive Soundtrack - Features hip-hop, R&B and a hip-hop/rock mix.
* Amazing 3D Player Models - Set to each player's height, weight, body size and athletic ability based on real life.
* New 36-point Facial Animation Technology - The most accurately detailed player faces and expressions. * 6,000 Poly-Count Player Models - The highest number of polys of any basketball videogame available.
* Exclusive Midway Sports Asylum Fantasy Lifestyle Courts - Fully detailed and structured with beautiful lighting effects and images. Animated sideline characters react to the action on the court in real-time!
* Lifestyle courts include - Play at Vince Carter's "Toronto penthouse," Jalen Rose's "luxurious Lake Michigan yacht," or Tim Duncan's "pad in the Virgin Islands."
ESRB Rating : E for EveryoneGenre/Category : SportsSystem : Microsoft XboxNumber of Players : Compatible Peripherals:
ELECTRONIC ARTS - RUGBY 2006 PS2 (GAMES)
Overview
EA SPORTS Rugby 2006 PS2 Lightning-fast backs, 300-pound forwards, huge hits, and no pads. This is rugby in its greatest glory. With EA SPORTS Rugby 2005 you can build team momentum with a shoulder charge or a high-impact collision, or avoid being tackled with creative side-steps or jukes --the power is in your control. New player models promote the most popular players in rugby, while realistic animations better simulate actions and movements on the pitch.
For newcomers, an interactive Training mode allows you to easily familiarize yourself with the game s elements. After you hone your skills, make a run for the 6 Nations and European Cup championships or take on teams in the Super 12 and European Domestic Leagues. The time to master the sport of rugby is NOW.
* True Rugby Realism: New player models of varying height and weight and realistic animations bring the tackles, high emotions, and player actions to life.
* Learn it. Play it. Live it.: Training mode outlines the eight main rugby gameplay elements including rules, controls, and advanced tactics. Then take your skills to the Training Pitch for challenge-based drills using advanced controls.
* Unprecedented Control Over Every Aspect of the Sport: Set plays on the fly, dive when tackling, sidestep big hits, build momentum with a shoulder charge, or confuse the defense with complex fakes and dummies.
* All-New Creation Zone: Create customized players based on your own likeness, your favorite rugby star, classic players of the game, or any other characters.
* New Teams and Tournaments: More teams and leagues added for the upcoming season, plus the addition of customizable, user-designed knockout tournaments.
* Enhanced Broadcast Presentation: New camera angles, sound effects, crowd noise, commentators, and replay controls provide better feel for the on- field action.
* Team Songs and Chants: Team songs and crowd chants from the major stadiums around the world capture the spirit and excitement of rugby.
ESRB Rating : E for EveryoneGenre/Category : SportsSystem : Playstation 2Number of Players : 1On-Line Compatible: No
EA SPORTS Rugby 2006 PS2 Lightning-fast backs, 300-pound forwards, huge hits, and no pads. This is rugby in its greatest glory. With EA SPORTS Rugby 2005 you can build team momentum with a shoulder charge or a high-impact collision, or avoid being tackled with creative side-steps or jukes --the power is in your control. New player models promote the most popular players in rugby, while realistic animations better simulate actions and movements on the pitch.
For newcomers, an interactive Training mode allows you to easily familiarize yourself with the game s elements. After you hone your skills, make a run for the 6 Nations and European Cup championships or take on teams in the Super 12 and European Domestic Leagues. The time to master the sport of rugby is NOW.
* True Rugby Realism: New player models of varying height and weight and realistic animations bring the tackles, high emotions, and player actions to life.
* Learn it. Play it. Live it.: Training mode outlines the eight main rugby gameplay elements including rules, controls, and advanced tactics. Then take your skills to the Training Pitch for challenge-based drills using advanced controls.
* Unprecedented Control Over Every Aspect of the Sport: Set plays on the fly, dive when tackling, sidestep big hits, build momentum with a shoulder charge, or confuse the defense with complex fakes and dummies.
* All-New Creation Zone: Create customized players based on your own likeness, your favorite rugby star, classic players of the game, or any other characters.
* New Teams and Tournaments: More teams and leagues added for the upcoming season, plus the addition of customizable, user-designed knockout tournaments.
* Enhanced Broadcast Presentation: New camera angles, sound effects, crowd noise, commentators, and replay controls provide better feel for the on- field action.
* Team Songs and Chants: Team songs and crowd chants from the major stadiums around the world capture the spirit and excitement of rugby.
ESRB Rating : E for EveryoneGenre/Category : SportsSystem : Playstation 2Number of Players : 1On-Line Compatible: No
THQ - THQ SPONGEBOB: CREATURE FROM THE KRUSTY KRAB (PS2) (GAMES
Overview
THQ SpongeBob Squarepants: Creature from the Krusty Krab Are you ready, kids? I can't hear you! Jump into the water, and sink to the ocean floor. The wacky world of Bikini Bottom is where you want to be. Join SpongeBob, Patrick, Plankton and more in this incredible 3D undersea adventure.
SpongeBob SquarePants: Creature from the Krusty Krab takes you through nine visually stunning levels, including one where Patrick flies through outer space. As if Bikini Bottom wasn't strange enough already, you'll experience this underwater world in five styles of gameplay through character-centric fantasies. With ground-breaking visual art styles, who knows what amazing things you'll see in the magical world of Bikini Bottom.
Everyone (E) Titles rated E - Everyone have content that may be suitable for persons ages 6 and older. Titles in this category may contain minimal violence, some comic mischief and/or mild language.
Features
State-of-the-art visual styles give players different perspectives throughout gameplay
Nine 3D levels provide the sense that you are actually in Bikini Bottom
Strange and creative game experiences based on character-focused fantasies
Ravage Bikini Bottom as giant Plankton
Experience outer space as Patrick, and try to avoid an asteroid field
Hot Rod racing puts SpongeBob and friends behind the wheel of some cool cars
Escape the jaws of a gigantic bull worm by flying with SpongeBob
Become the comic book super hero Starfish Man, and rule the seven seas
For 1 player
THQ SpongeBob Squarepants: Creature from the Krusty Krab Are you ready, kids? I can't hear you! Jump into the water, and sink to the ocean floor. The wacky world of Bikini Bottom is where you want to be. Join SpongeBob, Patrick, Plankton and more in this incredible 3D undersea adventure.
SpongeBob SquarePants: Creature from the Krusty Krab takes you through nine visually stunning levels, including one where Patrick flies through outer space. As if Bikini Bottom wasn't strange enough already, you'll experience this underwater world in five styles of gameplay through character-centric fantasies. With ground-breaking visual art styles, who knows what amazing things you'll see in the magical world of Bikini Bottom.
Everyone (E) Titles rated E - Everyone have content that may be suitable for persons ages 6 and older. Titles in this category may contain minimal violence, some comic mischief and/or mild language.
Features
State-of-the-art visual styles give players different perspectives throughout gameplay
Nine 3D levels provide the sense that you are actually in Bikini Bottom
Strange and creative game experiences based on character-focused fantasies
Ravage Bikini Bottom as giant Plankton
Experience outer space as Patrick, and try to avoid an asteroid field
Hot Rod racing puts SpongeBob and friends behind the wheel of some cool cars
Escape the jaws of a gigantic bull worm by flying with SpongeBob
Become the comic book super hero Starfish Man, and rule the seven seas
For 1 player
SQUARE ENIX - SQUARE ENIX KINGDOM HEARTS II (PS2) (GAMES)
Overview
Square Enix Kingdom Hearts II Kingdom Hearts II follows Sora, Donald, and Goofy on their continuing quest. It's been a year since the events of Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories. The story begins in Twilight Town, a quiet burg nestled between night and day. Sora and friends are joined by a vibrant new cast of characters, including the king himself! Together, they encounter countless dangers - in worlds both familiar and brand-new. Cameo appearances by popular Final Fantasy characters.
Everyone 10+ (E) Titles rated E10+ (Everyone 10 and older) have content that may be suitable for ages 10 and older. Titles in this category may contain more cartoon, fantasy or mild violence, mild language and/or minimal suggestive themes.
SoraA young boy and the hero of this tale. A boy chosen by the Keyblade, a mysterious weapon. In his last adventure, Sora journeyed with Donald and Goofy in search of his longtime friend, Kairi, who had been spirited away into the darkness. In the end, they saved the world of all worlds from the darkness that was closing in. Then somewhere along the way, Sora fell into a deep slumber. Now that he is awake, he can't recall why fell asleep to begin with.
Donald DuckThe Royal Court Magician. Last time, Donald left Disney Castle with Goofy to search for King Mickey. During that quest, they met Sora and became fast friends. After they helped Sora save the worlds from darkness, Donald and Goofy continued their search for King Mickey, who had decided to stay behind in the realm of darkness. But before they could find the King, the three friends were plunged into a deep sleep.
GoofyCaptain of the Royal Knights. Last time, Goofy left Disney Castle with Donald in search of King Mickey. Along the way, they joined Sora, obeying the King's command to 'follow the Keybearer.' After helping to save the worlds from darkness, Goofy continued his quest to find the King. But like Donald and Sora, he fell into a deep slumber before he could finish his quest. What had they been upto before they fell asleep?
A Closer Look
Features
Explore both new and familiar worlds from Kingdom Hearts, plus new Disney worlds to the Kingdom Hearts franchise, such as Pirates of the Caribbean, Beauty and the Beast and Mulan
A more advanced battle system that allows for a wider range of commands, powerful new combos, and cooperative attacks with members of your party, introducing another layer of strategy
All-new Drive command that lets Sora change into a variety of new forms, altering his skills and abilities
A revamped camera system that keeps you in the middle of the action
New transportation system that takes Sora and friends from world to world in the style of theme park rides
Square Enix Kingdom Hearts II Kingdom Hearts II follows Sora, Donald, and Goofy on their continuing quest. It's been a year since the events of Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories. The story begins in Twilight Town, a quiet burg nestled between night and day. Sora and friends are joined by a vibrant new cast of characters, including the king himself! Together, they encounter countless dangers - in worlds both familiar and brand-new. Cameo appearances by popular Final Fantasy characters.
Everyone 10+ (E) Titles rated E10+ (Everyone 10 and older) have content that may be suitable for ages 10 and older. Titles in this category may contain more cartoon, fantasy or mild violence, mild language and/or minimal suggestive themes.
SoraA young boy and the hero of this tale. A boy chosen by the Keyblade, a mysterious weapon. In his last adventure, Sora journeyed with Donald and Goofy in search of his longtime friend, Kairi, who had been spirited away into the darkness. In the end, they saved the world of all worlds from the darkness that was closing in. Then somewhere along the way, Sora fell into a deep slumber. Now that he is awake, he can't recall why fell asleep to begin with.
Donald DuckThe Royal Court Magician. Last time, Donald left Disney Castle with Goofy to search for King Mickey. During that quest, they met Sora and became fast friends. After they helped Sora save the worlds from darkness, Donald and Goofy continued their search for King Mickey, who had decided to stay behind in the realm of darkness. But before they could find the King, the three friends were plunged into a deep sleep.
GoofyCaptain of the Royal Knights. Last time, Goofy left Disney Castle with Donald in search of King Mickey. Along the way, they joined Sora, obeying the King's command to 'follow the Keybearer.' After helping to save the worlds from darkness, Goofy continued his quest to find the King. But like Donald and Sora, he fell into a deep slumber before he could finish his quest. What had they been upto before they fell asleep?
A Closer Look
Features
Explore both new and familiar worlds from Kingdom Hearts, plus new Disney worlds to the Kingdom Hearts franchise, such as Pirates of the Caribbean, Beauty and the Beast and Mulan
A more advanced battle system that allows for a wider range of commands, powerful new combos, and cooperative attacks with members of your party, introducing another layer of strategy
All-new Drive command that lets Sora change into a variety of new forms, altering his skills and abilities
A revamped camera system that keeps you in the middle of the action
New transportation system that takes Sora and friends from world to world in the style of theme park rides
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