EVE Online is set in outer space, where players command massive starships. Players can travel throughout an online galaxy comprising thousands of individual worlds, and can lead careers as pirates, traders, prospectors, speculators and much more. The game has been available for the Mac since 2007.
Unlike many online games, EVE Online all takes place within a “single shard” system, where all players participate on the same server — up to tens of thousands of gamers play at any given time, all sharing the same experience. That’s led to occasional problems involving game lag and other issues compounded by having many players online together at once.
Quantum Rise, the ninth expansion to EVE Online, is a two-staged release. The first stage has already been deployed — CCP has incorporated “under the hood” enhancements to resolve those problems — the game now uses technology called “StacklessIO” and “EVE64” to help reduce network lag and server overloads.
Newly announced enhancements for Quantum Rise include in-game subscription services; “Assembly Array” upgrades for those wanting to produce very large items; Alchemy; UI changes including a moveable HUD, module recharge timers and weapon grouping; more efficient bomb production; a re-balancing f ship speeds; 10 new music tracks; and upgrades to the Trinity Premium graphics content (which, sadly, is not yet available for the Mac).
Other already-announced feature updates in Quantum Rise include the ability for corporations to distribute custom medals; a newly-designed certificate system; re-balancing of industrial ships and the introduction of a new capital ship called the Orca, new autopilot avoidance options and more.
More details are anticipated at EVE Fanfest, CCP’s annual gathering of EVE Online enthusiasts, which comes to CCP’s home town of Reykjavik, Iceland from November 6 - 8, 2008.
EVE Online requires an Intel-based Mac to play. A 14-day free trial is available for download.
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
The Story Of PlayStation Games
In 1994, Sony Computer Entertainment America (SCEA) was founded as the North America division of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. Taking approximately four years to develop, the PlayStation® game console was introduced in the United States in 1995.
The launch of the PlayStation brand was a sensation. In the very first weekend, more than 100,000 units were sold. In the first six months, over a million were sold. In April 1997, with nearly 4 million PlayStation® game consoles in North America, we found a way to strengthen our bond with PlayStation® owners even more. Our interactive relationship marketing program, PlayStation® Underground, gives us the opportunity to recognize and reward our loyal gamers. Members of the PlayStation® Underground can feel as though they belong to a subculture of intense gamers by experiencing new game challenges and getting the scoop on upcoming games, merchandise, and special offers.
The company next set its sights on development of the PlayStation®2, which became available to consumers in November 2000. With its incredible power and the exciting added ability to play CDs and DVD movies, this new system was unstoppable, making it possible for smooth, lifelike animation to be shown in real time. Then in August 2002, the company introduced the option to play games online with the new Network Adaptor (Ethernet/modem) (for PlayStation®2).
In March 2005, the PlayStation®Portable (PSP™) was launched in North America, bringing an unparalleled gaming experience to a handheld platform. With graphics rendering capability comparable to that of the PlayStation® 2 system, the PSP™ features a 4.3-inch widescreen, high-resolution TFT display.
On November 17, 2006, Sony released the PLAYSTATION®3. PLAYSTATION®3 is the most advanced computer system that serves as a platform to enjoy next generation computer entertainment contents in the home, realized through the combination of Cell and RSX™ processors, in addition to the compatibility of a vast catalog of PlayStation® and PlayStation®2 software titles. With its Giga-bit Ethernet and a pre-installed hard disk drive (HDD), users will be able to use the PLAYSTATION®3 to download a variety of online contents as well as access online games. Equipped with basic input/output ports, PLAYSTATION®3 supports a broad range of displays from conventional NTSC/PAL standard TVs to the latest full HD (1080i/1080p) flat panel displays, offering the joy of the most advanced computer entertainment contents to homes around the world.
The launch of the PlayStation brand was a sensation. In the very first weekend, more than 100,000 units were sold. In the first six months, over a million were sold. In April 1997, with nearly 4 million PlayStation® game consoles in North America, we found a way to strengthen our bond with PlayStation® owners even more. Our interactive relationship marketing program, PlayStation® Underground, gives us the opportunity to recognize and reward our loyal gamers. Members of the PlayStation® Underground can feel as though they belong to a subculture of intense gamers by experiencing new game challenges and getting the scoop on upcoming games, merchandise, and special offers.
The company next set its sights on development of the PlayStation®2, which became available to consumers in November 2000. With its incredible power and the exciting added ability to play CDs and DVD movies, this new system was unstoppable, making it possible for smooth, lifelike animation to be shown in real time. Then in August 2002, the company introduced the option to play games online with the new Network Adaptor (Ethernet/modem) (for PlayStation®2).
In March 2005, the PlayStation®Portable (PSP™) was launched in North America, bringing an unparalleled gaming experience to a handheld platform. With graphics rendering capability comparable to that of the PlayStation® 2 system, the PSP™ features a 4.3-inch widescreen, high-resolution TFT display.
On November 17, 2006, Sony released the PLAYSTATION®3. PLAYSTATION®3 is the most advanced computer system that serves as a platform to enjoy next generation computer entertainment contents in the home, realized through the combination of Cell and RSX™ processors, in addition to the compatibility of a vast catalog of PlayStation® and PlayStation®2 software titles. With its Giga-bit Ethernet and a pre-installed hard disk drive (HDD), users will be able to use the PLAYSTATION®3 to download a variety of online contents as well as access online games. Equipped with basic input/output ports, PLAYSTATION®3 supports a broad range of displays from conventional NTSC/PAL standard TVs to the latest full HD (1080i/1080p) flat panel displays, offering the joy of the most advanced computer entertainment contents to homes around the world.
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Lesser-known PSP Games
If you’re new to PSP, or just haven’t got yourself a new game in a while, you’ll find plenty of hidden classics in the handheld's software catalogue.
It’s the way of the world that certain games steal all the limelight when they’re released, while other titles make their way onto the shelves with comparatively little fanfare. Here are five games that you might have missed that are more than deserving of your attention.
Ape Escape P
A remake of the original Ape Escape, which made its debut on PS one, this is perfectly suited to PSP. Your task is to capture the charming little monkeys that have gone on to become PlayStation icons, using a variety of inventive gadgets. This slick platform adventure is perfect, colourful fun for summer.
Worms Open Warfare
Team 17 has been polishing the Worms formula for years now, but the arrival of Worms Open Warfare finally makes it possible to enjoy some top-notch wormage wherever you may be. A turn-based strategy game, Worms requires you to take your team of invertebrates into pitched battle, using a huge variety of comedy weapons.
The game is as enjoyable on PSP as it has ever been, and robust Wireless multiplayer modes make for hours of entertainment.
Bust-A-Move Ghost
Another classic gets updated for PSP – in this case, a timeless puzzle game that’s perfectly suited to the colourful, crisp screen of the multimedia wonder machine. Line up and launch your bubbles to create clusters that pop and create chain reactions. One of the most enjoyable multiplayer games ever created, Bust-A-Move Ghost also features a huge amount of puzzles for single players to tackle.
Gottlieb Pinball Classics
Pinball tables don’t seem as ubiquitous as they once were – but when you can play flawless versions of Gottlieb’s classic tables on your PSP whenever you want, who cares? Eleven tables are included, and the simulation of the silver ball as it pings, bumps and bashes its way around them is spot-on. High-score challenge games are brilliantly suited to the portable format, and there’s no better high-score challenge than a good pinball table.
WipEout Pure
If you’re a more recent arrival to the world of PSP, you may have missed out on WipEout Pure – in which case, you’ve got a real treat in store. One of the highlights of the system’s launch line-up, this futuristic racer combines lightning-speed, cutting-edge visuals with a classy soundtrack and reams of extra downloadable content through this very site. It’s recently become available as a Platinum title too, making it one of the most essential PSP titles out there.
It’s the way of the world that certain games steal all the limelight when they’re released, while other titles make their way onto the shelves with comparatively little fanfare. Here are five games that you might have missed that are more than deserving of your attention.
Ape Escape P
A remake of the original Ape Escape, which made its debut on PS one, this is perfectly suited to PSP. Your task is to capture the charming little monkeys that have gone on to become PlayStation icons, using a variety of inventive gadgets. This slick platform adventure is perfect, colourful fun for summer.
Worms Open Warfare
Team 17 has been polishing the Worms formula for years now, but the arrival of Worms Open Warfare finally makes it possible to enjoy some top-notch wormage wherever you may be. A turn-based strategy game, Worms requires you to take your team of invertebrates into pitched battle, using a huge variety of comedy weapons.
The game is as enjoyable on PSP as it has ever been, and robust Wireless multiplayer modes make for hours of entertainment.
Bust-A-Move Ghost
Another classic gets updated for PSP – in this case, a timeless puzzle game that’s perfectly suited to the colourful, crisp screen of the multimedia wonder machine. Line up and launch your bubbles to create clusters that pop and create chain reactions. One of the most enjoyable multiplayer games ever created, Bust-A-Move Ghost also features a huge amount of puzzles for single players to tackle.
Gottlieb Pinball Classics
Pinball tables don’t seem as ubiquitous as they once were – but when you can play flawless versions of Gottlieb’s classic tables on your PSP whenever you want, who cares? Eleven tables are included, and the simulation of the silver ball as it pings, bumps and bashes its way around them is spot-on. High-score challenge games are brilliantly suited to the portable format, and there’s no better high-score challenge than a good pinball table.
WipEout Pure
If you’re a more recent arrival to the world of PSP, you may have missed out on WipEout Pure – in which case, you’ve got a real treat in store. One of the highlights of the system’s launch line-up, this futuristic racer combines lightning-speed, cutting-edge visuals with a classy soundtrack and reams of extra downloadable content through this very site. It’s recently become available as a Platinum title too, making it one of the most essential PSP titles out there.
Monday, November 3, 2008
World of Warcraft: Wrath of the Lich King
World of Warcraft: Wrath of the Lich King builds on the rich foundation established in World of Warcraft and its first expansion, The Burning Crusade, by providing a wealth of new content for players to explore in the harsh, forbidding continent of Northrend, home of the Lich King and his undead minions. To contend with the new challenges found there, players will be able to advance to level 80, acquiring potent new abilities and talents along the way.
Wrath of the Lich King will introduce the death knight Hero class to World of Warcraft. Furthermore, player-vs.-player battles will reach a new level of intensity with the addition of siege vehicles and destructible buildings, along with a new Battleground, Strand of the Ancients.
The expansion will also introduce an abundance of new quests, dungeons, monsters, items, and recipes, as well as a new profession, Inscription. Additional character-customization options will be introduced, such as new hair styles, available in the new barbershops.
In addition, World of Warcraft now has an Achievement system. Achievements are self-contained goals and challenges designed to satisfy goal-oriented players. There are more than 700 individual Achievements covering every aspect of game play, including world exploration, PvE, PvP, professions, and character development. Some Achievements come with in-game rewards such as tabards, mounts, vanity pets, and titles, and other players will be able to see your Achievements. All of these rewards are purely cosmetic and just for fun.
Wrath of the Lich King will introduce the death knight Hero class to World of Warcraft. Furthermore, player-vs.-player battles will reach a new level of intensity with the addition of siege vehicles and destructible buildings, along with a new Battleground, Strand of the Ancients.
The expansion will also introduce an abundance of new quests, dungeons, monsters, items, and recipes, as well as a new profession, Inscription. Additional character-customization options will be introduced, such as new hair styles, available in the new barbershops.
In addition, World of Warcraft now has an Achievement system. Achievements are self-contained goals and challenges designed to satisfy goal-oriented players. There are more than 700 individual Achievements covering every aspect of game play, including world exploration, PvE, PvP, professions, and character development. Some Achievements come with in-game rewards such as tabards, mounts, vanity pets, and titles, and other players will be able to see your Achievements. All of these rewards are purely cosmetic and just for fun.
Saturday, November 1, 2008
Vampires Beware: Buffy The Vampire Slayer
This action-packed 3D survival horror game sees Buffy using a range of special weapons, powerful spells and martial arts to take out vicious vampires and demons. In addition to these enemies, players also come across recognisable characters from the show, including Spike, Angel, the Master, the First Evil, Caleb and, of course, the Scooby Gang.Features of The Game:
* Play as Buffy the Vampire Slayer through 24 levels using a third person camera.
* Unlock and use more than 20 types of unique Slayer weapons.
* Fight more than 12 different level bosses and sub-bosses, including First Evil, the boss of all bosses.
* Play “Challenge Mode” in first-person for fast-paced action and an increased difficulty level.
* Solve puzzle missions to unlock new areas. • Collect spells to increase Buffy’s supernatural and physical abilities.
* Explore 12 dynamic environments and search for up to four hidden ones.
* Use breakable objects located within in all environments to battle demons and vampires.
* Unique story set after the climactic seventh season of the TV series, written by Rob Deshotel, one of the original writers of the TV series.
* Explore locations from the TV show, including Sunnydale High, the Bronze and the Hellmouth.
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