Switched http://www.switched.com Switched http://www.switched.com/media/feedlogo.gif Switched http://www.switched.com en-us Copyright 2008 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA['Metal Gear Solid 4' Limited-Edition PlayStation 3 Coming to the US]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/05/16/metal-gear-solid-4-limited-edition-ps3-for-north-america-detaile/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/16/metal-gear-solid-4-limited-edition-ps3-for-north-america-detaile/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/16/metal-gear-solid-4-limited-edition-ps3-for-north-america-detaile/#commentsFiled under:


Ha, seems our Japanese gaming overlords aren't the only ones looking down the retail barrel at the limited edition gunmetal gray MGS4 PS3. Sony's official Playstation.Blog is reporting that the MGS4 Limited Edition PS3 Hardware Bundle will be available exclusively from Konami.com for $600. For that you get a 40GB gunmetal PS3, matching DualShock 3 wireless controller, Metal Gear Online, an exclusive Blu-ray disc with 2-hours of additional content (making of documentary and look at Hideo Kojima's production team) and of course the MGS4: Guns of the Patriots Limited Edition game. Pre-orders from the "very limited supply" begin on Monday the 19th. Best set your alarms.

[Source: Konami via Playstation.Blog]
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newsBreakingNewsps3sonyFri, 16 May 2008 14:16:00 EST<![CDATA[Top Ten 'Cool' Things That Actually Make You Look 'Uncool']]>http://www.switched.com/2008/05/16/things-that-you-think-make-you-cool-but-dont/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/16/things-that-you-think-make-you-cool-but-dont/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/16/things-that-you-think-make-you-cool-but-dont/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Things That You Think Make You Cool, But Don't

There are plenty of things in this world that you're sure are pretty freakin' cool, and, by extension, make you cool, but, in reality, aren't cool at all (and make you look like a tool). Luckily, Holy Taco put together a list of 10 items that people generally think make them cool, but don't, and some of our favorite pieces of tech made the list, including the iPhone, Bluetooth headsets, 'Guitar Hero,' and "funny" ring-tones. This, of course, got us thinking: What other gadgets are out there that people love, but are actually not cool (or stylish) at all.

Check out the gallery below for our own list of tech and gadgets that some of us may think make us cool, but really don't. [Source: Holy Taco]

Gallery: Gallery of Uncool Gadgets

Portable Gaming SystemsBlinged-out GadgetsJawbone Bluetooth HeadsetOver-sized HeadphonesVertu Luxury Cell Phones

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bluetoothbreaking newsBreakingNewsfunnyguitar heroGuitarHerohumorstylesummernewsFri, 16 May 2008 13:17:00 EST<![CDATA[Greatest Hits In Gamer Fashions]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/05/15/greatest-hits-in-gamer-fashions/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/15/greatest-hits-in-gamer-fashions/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/15/greatest-hits-in-gamer-fashions/#commentsFiled under:

Greatest Hits in Gamer FashionsThink video gamers, and you probably don't think high fashion. Most gamer garb is more low maintenance than haute couture, but there are a few exceptions, as highlighted at Asylum's list of greatest gaming fashions. Some are cool, like a 'Space Invaders' jacket, or the Mario-themed scarf. Others, though, are questionable at best, like the NES controller belt-buckle or, worst of all, a pair of boots with an old-school GameBoy Color built-in.

However, the list sadly ignores our personal favorite, the Burton Asteroids snowboarding jacket, which is not only geeky, but also quite functional and stylish. [Source: Asylum]
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fashiongamersgeekspace invadersSpaceInvadersThu, 15 May 2008 08:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Atari Takes on Wii Fit with Floor Mat-Based Family Trainer Game]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/05/14/atari-takes-on-wii-fit-with-floor-mat-based-family-trainer-game/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/14/atari-takes-on-wii-fit-with-floor-mat-based-family-trainer-game/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/14/atari-takes-on-wii-fit-with-floor-mat-based-family-trainer-game/#commentsFiled under:

It looks like Atari is taking a few cues from Nintendo's past in order to take on the hot-selling Wii Fit, with the company's new Family Trainer game employing a Power Pad-style (or DDR-style for you young 'uns) mat controller to give you a workout. That'll apparently let you run and jump your way through more than a dozen mini-games designed to get your heart rate going, including log jumping, rope skipping and water rafting, each of which also make use of the Wiimote for some upper-body action. No word on a price just yet, but it'll apparently be landing in Europe first this September before it (presumably) makes its way over here.

[Source: Register Hardware via TG Daily]
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atariWed, 14 May 2008 20:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Grand Theft Auto 4's Liberty City -- a Side-By-Side Comparison With NYC]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/05/14/grand-theft-auto-4s-liberty-city-a-side-by-side-comparison-w/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/14/grand-theft-auto-4s-liberty-city-a-side-by-side-comparison-w/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/14/grand-theft-auto-4s-liberty-city-a-side-by-side-comparison-w/#commentsFiled under:

GTA IV's Liberty City, Side-by-Side with NYC

We all know that the setting for GTA IV, Liberty City, is supposed to be New York. But unless you've spent most of your time in the game staring at the scenery instead of wreaking havoc, you may not have noticed how spot on of a recreation Liberty City is. Thankfully, Flickr user Matthew Johnston has cobbled together a set of side-by-side comparisons showing off certain structures and locations in Liberty City that bare a striking resemblance to certain real world structures.

Johnston's gallery focuses primarily on Liberty City's version of Manhattan, but there are plenty of real life structures and locations in the outer buroughs too. In the meantime check out some of the choicest comparison shots below. [Source: Matthew Johnston's Flikr, Via: Geekologie]

Gallery: GTA IV Comparison

St. John the DivineRockefeller CenterWorld Trade CenterTimes SquareMorgan Stanley and Crowne Plaza
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newsBreakingNewsgrand theft autogrand theft auto ivGrandTheftAutoGrandTheftAutoIvGTAliberty cityLibertyCitynew york cityNewYorkCityWed, 14 May 2008 16:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft Says No New Xbox 360s in 2009]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/05/14/microsoft-says-no-new-xbox-360s-in-2009/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/14/microsoft-says-no-new-xbox-360s-in-2009/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/14/microsoft-says-no-new-xbox-360s-in-2009/#commentsFiled under:

Sounds like that rumor about a new, smaller Xbox 360 coming next year might have a shorter life than a red-ringing console. Specifying the release of "slimmed down SKU in 2009", Microsoft representative let us know today that "While we don't normally comment on rumors like this, we can tell you that we have no plans to release a new console in 2009". Yep, rumor assassinated, just like that. Of course, there still exists the possibility that Microsoft's just playing coy to prevent a little bit of Osborne effect from creeping in during their heated battle with the PS3 -- but they did go out of their way to directly comment on the rumor, so take it as you will.
Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newsBreakingNewsxbox360Wed, 14 May 2008 09:53:00 EST<![CDATA[Kid Sells Video Games, Then Donates Proceeds to Hillary's Campaign]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/05/13/kid-sells-video-games-then-donates-proceeds-to-hillarys-campai/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/13/kid-sells-video-games-then-donates-proceeds-to-hillarys-campai/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/13/kid-sells-video-games-then-donates-proceeds-to-hillarys-campai/#commentsFiled under:

Kid Hawks Video Games, Donates Proceeds to Hillary
It's been a bitter fight for Democrats, with Hillary supporters either digging deep to try to pull out a come-from-behind victory for their candidate, or instead jumping ship and joining the Obama train. One 11-year-old isn't giving up on Hillary yet, though, since it appears he's sold most of his worldly possessions to scrounge together a $440 donation to Clinton's campaign, which is said to be $20-million in debt.

According to the Associated Press (AP), the boy, Dalton Hatfield from McAndrews, Kentucky, sold his video games and his bicycle to get the money, which he presented to former President Bill Clinton last Friday at a Hillary support rally in West Virginia (to give to his wife's campaign, of course). As the AP story reports, Clinton was nearly moved to tears when presented with the check.

Besides his support for Hillary, Hatfield also apparently looks up to Bill Clinton, and hopes to emulate them both some day. "I want to be governor or a senator, then president," Hatfield said afterwards. Well, if he stays this dedicated to politics, he might have a chance. [Source: AP, via Top of the Ticket/LA Times]
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newsBreakingNewselectionsexpire-images2008-6-12kidspoliticsTue, 13 May 2008 10:37:00 EST<![CDATA[Horse Riding Simulator Makes You Look Like a Fool]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/05/13/horse-riding-simulator-makes-you-look-like-a-fool/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/13/horse-riding-simulator-makes-you-look-like-a-fool/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/13/horse-riding-simulator-makes-you-look-like-a-fool/#commentsFiled under:

Horse Riding Simulator Makes You Look Like a Fool
Learning to ride a horse sounds like fun, but we can't imagine that embarrassing ourselves on the $10,000 Ridemaster Pro is really going to help anyone towards that goal. The horse riding simulator -- which looks like someone stuck one of those 25-cent pony rides from outside a super market in front of a wide screen TV -- teaches you the basics of riding and jumping, plus helps you work those all important leg muscles you'll need when you actually climb up on a real horse.

In fact, the only thing sadder than having to ride this affront to nature and the sport of horse riding is allowing yourself to be video-taped while riding it. [Source: Ridemaster, via Geek Sugar]
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>horseback ridingHorsebackRidingridemaster proRidemasterProsportsweirdTue, 13 May 2008 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA['BioShock' Video Game to Be Made Into Movie]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/05/12/bioshock-video-game-to-be-made-into-movie/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/12/bioshock-video-game-to-be-made-into-movie/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/12/bioshock-video-game-to-be-made-into-movie/#commentsFiled under: ,

'Bioshock's Underwater Dystopia Heading to the Silver Screen
Last year, top-notch first-person shooter 'BioShock' dazzled the gaming media with its engaging storyline and incredibly rich environment. It was immediately clear that a sequel was required, and developer Take-Two is currently working on it. Now, the gaming developer has revealed that a Hollywood adaptation is in the works, as well.

Gore Verbinski -- famous for his work on the 'Pirates of the Caribbean' films -- has been lined up for directorial duties. The screenwriter for the script has not been finalized, but John Logan, who wrote 'Star Trek: Nemesis' and 'The Aviator' is currently in talks to handle that duty.

It's always hard to know what to expect when talking about a film based on a video game, but it's got to be better than the film adaptation of 'BloodRayne' -- right? [Source: USAToday/Reuters]
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Oh, there are so many ways we try to put a good spin on things that are flawed or unattractive.

"He has a good personality." (Too short.)

"She has a great sense of humor." (Cross-eyed.)

"This apartment is certainly cozy." (Tiny.)

"It gets great mileage." (A '72 Gremlin.)

And then there's this: "It's certainly shiny." Yes, that's the right description for what could be the ugliest Nintendo DS Lite, a unit that's been modified and accessorized with motley mix of jewels, hearts, and glitter. It looks like one of Liberace's outfits mated with a mobile device. (Don't try to imagine it.)

The maker, Kind Deco, has a whole host of products with which to dazzle you.

How unfortunate. [Source: Crave].
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dslitemodsUglyMon, 12 May 2008 12:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Trade In an Old Video Game for a New Tent]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/05/12/trade-in-an-old-video-game-for-a-new-tent/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/12/trade-in-an-old-video-game-for-a-new-tent/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/12/trade-in-an-old-video-game-for-a-new-tent/#commentsFiled under: ,

Trade In an Old Game for a New Tent

Kids who play video games are fat, anti-social, and overly violent, right? Not necessarily, but that's what many people think, so outdoor "sporting" equipment retailer Bass Pro Shops is capitalizing on this misperception for a sales event happening next week.

Bring in an old video game, any old thing you like, and get 15-percent off of your purchase at the store. The idea is, of course, to get kids outside instead of holing up on the couch on a beautiful summer day, but if you were already looking to make a purchase there, this is a great way to save some money. Just stop at your local video game retailer and buy the cheapest used game you can find. Instant discount, and the sort of lazy frugality that would make any gamer proud. [Source: Bass Pro Shops via Newsvine]
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>campingdealsfishingsummernewsvideo gamesVideoGamesMon, 12 May 2008 10:48:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo DS Version of Guitar Hero Launching This June]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/05/10/guitar-hero-on-tour-to-land-in-nintendo-ds-bundle-this-june/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/10/guitar-hero-on-tour-to-land-in-nintendo-ds-bundle-this-june/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/10/guitar-hero-on-tour-to-land-in-nintendo-ds-bundle-this-june/#commentsFiled under:

There's not a lot of details on this one just yet, but Activision CEO Mike Griffith has dropped word in a earnings conference call that the company's upcoming Guitar Hero: On Tour game / controller combo will not only be released on its own this June, but in a new Nintendo DS bundle as well. No word on a price, unfortunately, nor is there any indication that the DS itself will be undergoing any Guitar Hero-inspired changes, but it seems like those little details should be making themselves known soon enough. [Source: Joystiq]
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionguitarheronintendodsSat, 10 May 2008 11:01:00 EST<![CDATA[DIYer Builds Fully-Functional NES Controller Coffee Table]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/05/10/diyer-builds-fully-functional-nes-controller-coffee-table/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/10/diyer-builds-fully-functional-nes-controller-coffee-table/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/10/diyer-builds-fully-functional-nes-controller-coffee-table/#commentsFiled under: ,


Nah, the idea of using a freshly-mushroomed NES controller as your coffee table isn't new, but we've got to give props where props are due on this one. Kyle Downes has just completed a painstaking project that resulted in his very own NES controller table, complete with a removable glass top to protect the unit itself. Best of all, it's way more than just a living room centerpiece. Open it up and you'll find loads of storage room for items any Big N fanboy shouldn't be without. Remove the glass covering and you'll realize that it's a fully-functional Nintendo Entertainment System control pad. Don't believe us? Check out the video after the break.

[Via GeekLifeBlog]

Continue reading DIYer Builds Fully-Functional NES Controller Coffee Table

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>nintendoSat, 10 May 2008 10:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Is Apple Developing a Mobile Gaming Platform?]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/05/09/is-apple-developing-a-mobile-game-platform/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/09/is-apple-developing-a-mobile-game-platform/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/09/is-apple-developing-a-mobile-game-platform/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Could the iPhone and the iPod Touch be part of the next great mobile gaming platform?

Game developers and Apple fans are licking their chops, awaiting the opportunities to create and play games on the go with these devices. And as Apple has already changed the way people everywhere listen to and collect music, we're sure they're equally excited about making an impact on the mobile gaming marketplace.

According to the Industry Standard "A trademark extension filed last February with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office extends Apple's trademark in regards to:

'Toys, games and playthings, namely, hand-held units for playing electronic games; hand-held units for playing video games; stand alone video game machines; electronic games other than those adapted for use with television receivers only; LCD game machines; electronic educational game machines; toys, namely battery-powered computer games.'"

That's a mouthful, for sure, but it also points to Apple's renewed interest in the gaming arena, which is certainly hot, although competitive as all get out. This isn't Apple's first effort in gaming, but the last time the company tried to find its way with a gaming device was in 1996, during the non-Steve Jobs era. The device console, called the Pippin, was a failure.

Now the iPhone and the iPod Touch are flying high. Could this be the time for Apple to make its mark with yet another way to keep you focused on a tiny LCD screen? [Source: The Industry Standard].
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Applehandheld gamingHandheldGamingFri, 09 May 2008 17:44:00 EST<![CDATA[U.S. Spies Receiving Training Via Custom Video Games]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/05/09/u-s-spies-get-a-trio-of-training-video-games/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/09/u-s-spies-get-a-trio-of-training-video-games/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/09/u-s-spies-get-a-trio-of-training-video-games/#commentsFiled under:

U.S. Spies Get a Trio of Training Video Games
You can learn just about anything from video games at this point. Non-profits use them to teach immigration law, budding rock musicians can use them learn to play guitar, and the Army even uses games to recruit and train people.

Now the U.S. Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) is getting in on the action with three games of its own in which trainees play a rookie intelligence analyst who has to solve a series of problems and avert crises, without weapons of course. The three games -- 'Rapid Onset,' 'Vital Passage,' and 'Sudden Thrust' -- teach the fundamentals of intelligence analysis through exercises involving an attack on an oil tanker in the Persian Gulf, the purchase of an aging Soviet aircraft carrier by China, and a the rescuing of a hijacked natural gas tanker in New York Harbor.

The DIA hopes these custom video games will make training easier and cheaper, especially as they're asked to train 2,000 combat military personnel deployed overseas where classrooms and instructors are in limited availability. [Source: Wired]
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newsBreakingNewsintelligencemilitarytrainingFri, 09 May 2008 15:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Florida Man Kills Neighbor Over Missing PlayStation 3]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/05/09/florida-man-kills-neighbor-over-missing-playstation-3/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/09/florida-man-kills-neighbor-over-missing-playstation-3/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/09/florida-man-kills-neighbor-over-missing-playstation-3/#commentsFiled under:

Keith Stoddard Jr.Edward Keith Stoddard Jr. really likes his PlayStation 3 (PS3). So much, in fact, that if you were to touch it, he may just kill you. Such was the fate of his neighbor, Douglas F. Abrams, who Stoddard suspected of stealing his PS3.

Police reports say that during an argument over the missing console late Wednesday night, Stoddard shot Abrams, fatally wounding him. After police showed up on the scene, Stoddard surrendered and is now in Land O'Lakes jail in Dade County, Florida.

Love your console, people. Just don't get jealous if it drops by the neighbors' house for some tea. [Source: Bay News 9, via PS3Fanboy]
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If you thought handheld game consoles were just for kids, then you've got it all wrong. They were made for moms, too. The Nintendo DS is small, with a clamshell design and two LCD screens -- one of which is a touchscreen. With a built-in microphone and Wi-Fi, this little gadget is perfect entertainment for the mom who wants to be at least as cool as her teenage or twentysomething daughters. Add some groovy games -- like Konami's Let's Yoga! and Let's Pilates!, which provide simple instructions for exercises and positions -- and it becomes a portable workout center. Also perfect for her is the Crosswords DS game, which includes more than a thousand crossword puzzles, Wordsearch and Anagrams. The Nintendo DS goes for $130 and the games retail for $30.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Fri, 09 May 2008 10:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Mother's Day Gift Guide: Wii Fit]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/05/09/top-12-gadget-gifts-for-mom-11/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/09/top-12-gadget-gifts-for-mom-11/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/09/top-12-gadget-gifts-for-mom-11/#commentsFiled under:




For the mom that simply can't find time to make it to the gym, Wii Fit makes a great stand-in (and a wonderful excuse to buy a Nintendo Wii). The package comes with two components: the gaming software and a Wii Balance Board that you stand on. There are plenty of Wii Sports-style games included -- football, skiing and hoola hooping, to name but a few -- and a range of others designed to get Mom shaking her booty in the living room (competitively, of course). The package also includes a series of more intense exercises, ranging from yoga to circuit training: these are broken down into aerobic exercise, muscle conditioning, yoga poses and an assortment of fun balance games.


Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Fri, 09 May 2008 08:42:00 EST<![CDATA['Grand Theft Auto IV' Sets Sales Records With $500 Million In First Week]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/05/07/gta-iv-sets-sales-records-with-6-million-units-500-million-fi/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/07/gta-iv-sets-sales-records-with-6-million-units-500-million-fi/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/07/gta-iv-sets-sales-records-with-6-million-units-500-million-fi/#commentsFiled under:

Amazingly, prerelease estimates of a $400 million first week for the latest edition of Grand Theft Auto turned out to be low, with publisher Take-Two trumpeting a 6 million unit, $500 million debut.

GTA in HD isn't without controversy however, with reports of overscan issues on older HDTVs (we've experienced it, with the last number or letter in mission descriptions sometimes running off the screen), and the PlayStation 3 version of the game not quite meeting our 720p expectations (although some say differences in textures and lighting more than make up for it).

Being "only" 640p didn't stop previous record holder Halo 3, and looking at the numbers, it appears that Rockstar has made the right moves as well, although we're sure some will wait for the inevitable PC version to run the game in as high a resolution as possible. [Source: Take-Two Interactive via Joystiq]
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newsBreakingNewsgrandtheftautoxbox360Wed, 07 May 2008 10:44:00 EST<![CDATA['Duck Hunt' Lamp Sure to Make Retro Gamers Swoon]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/05/06/duck-hunt-lamp-sure-to-make-retro-gamers-swoon/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/06/duck-hunt-lamp-sure-to-make-retro-gamers-swoon/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/06/duck-hunt-lamp-sure-to-make-retro-gamers-swoon/#commentsFiled under:

'Duck Hunt' Lamp Makes Keeps Monsters Away for Retro GamersFor young kids, whimsical bed-stand lamps are vital survival tools, necessary for keeping the monsters that dwell in dark corners at bay. That seems to be the purpose of this lamp we found over at Apartment Therapy Unplugged. It's made up of an old 'Duck Hunt' cartridge combined with a genuine Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) Zapper. The lamp is topped with a suitably pixelated shade featuring your faithful dog from the game.

We hope that those old enough to remember 'Duck Hunt' are also old enough to not be afraid of the dark anymore, but regardless, it's enough to make any retro-loving gamer swoon -- assuming they haven't grown up to join PETA, of course. [Source: Unplggd]
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>duck huntDuckHunthouseholdnintendoretroTue, 06 May 2008 18:17:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox 360 Kiosks Headed to Children's Hospitals Across the US]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/05/06/xbox-360-kiosks-headed-to-childrens-hospitals-across-the-us/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/06/xbox-360-kiosks-headed-to-childrens-hospitals-across-the-us/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/06/xbox-360-kiosks-headed-to-childrens-hospitals-across-the-us/#commentsFiled under:


Here's your heartwarming story for the day. Microsoft has teamed up with Companions in Courage in order to bring "hundreds" of Xbox 360 kiosks to children's hospitals across the nation, and the gaming stations have already been installed at Morgan Stanley Children's Hospital of New York-Presbyterian, Children's Hospital & Regional Medical Center of Seattle and the Children's Hospital of Orange County, California.

The customized units are "hospital-friendly" and come pre-loaded with a variety of E and E10+ rated games, Y-rated television programs, G-rated movies and the Xbox Live headset / Vision camera in order for gamers to play online. Speaking of, each kiosk is wired to a private Live network which "allows hospitalized children across the country to play games and chat" with each other. There's no word on where the stations are slated to arrive outside of the three venues already mentioned, but those interested in broadening the reach of the endeavor can feel free to donate to the cause.

[Source: Companions in Courage via OhGizmo]
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftxboxTue, 06 May 2008 09:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Conan O'Brien Re-Imagines 'Grand Theft Auto IV' As a PG-13 Game]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/05/05/conan-obriens-pg-13-version-of-grand-theft-auto-iv/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/05/conan-obriens-pg-13-version-of-grand-theft-auto-iv/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/05/conan-obriens-pg-13-version-of-grand-theft-auto-iv/#commentsFiled under:


If you've spent any time at all with 'Grand Theft Auto IV' since its release last week, you know that it's not exactly a kind and cuddly game. Conan O'Brien noted the same thing and in response has envisioned what a PG-rated version of the game might look like. See for yourself in the video above. Whether you love or hate the game, you have to agree that this, um, friendlier version isn't particularly appealing, though it is pretty hilarious! [Source: YouTube, via Joystiq and GeekSugar]
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newsBreakingNewsconan obrienConanObrienfunnygrand theft autoGrandTheftAutogta ivGtaIvparodyyoutubeMon, 05 May 2008 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Qmotions Bringing Skate Controllers to the Xbox 360]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/05/03/qmotions-bringing-skate-controllers-to-the-xbox-360/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/03/qmotions-bringing-skate-controllers-to-the-xbox-360/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/03/qmotions-bringing-skate-controllers-to-the-xbox-360/#commentsFiled under: ,


Qmotions has been hawking various specialty sports controllers for a while now, but it looks like the company is about to take the next-gen plunge with an upcoming skateboard controller called the Qmotions Big Air for the Xbox 360 -- and best of all, Microsoft is going to let the company build official wireless peripherals. That's an honor Microsoft is pretty hesitant to dole out, but it seems like the ability to wirelessly rip up some Tony Hawk swayed J Allard and co. (We hear Ballmer is a monster in the pipe.)

No word on price or game compatibility other than "skateboard games currently on the market," but look for this one to ollie into your heart sometime later this year. Amazing 1992-style animated GIF of Qmotions' PS2 XBoard controller, pictured above, after the break. [Source I4U News via Engadget Spanish]

Continue reading Qmotions Bringing Skate Controllers to the Xbox 360

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Sat, 03 May 2008 11:07:00 EST<![CDATA[Video Game Teaches Immigrants How to Become Citizens]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/05/02/video-game-teaches-immigrants-how-to-become-citizens/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/02/video-game-teaches-immigrants-how-to-become-citizens/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/02/video-game-teaches-immigrants-how-to-become-citizens/#commentsFiled under:

A Video Game That Teaches You About the Immigrant Experience

We're all used to video games that "teach" us to race cars, perform criminal acts, and save humanity from aliens, but what about a game that teaches you about human rights, immigration laws, and the struggles of those less fortunate than you? That's the stated goal of 'ICED: I Can End Deportation,' a game chronicling the attempts of several immigrant teens to avoid arrest and deportation in their effort to become citizens of the United States.

The game is produced by Breakthrough, an organization dedicated to promoting human rights and dignity. The graphics and game play certainly aren't going to be mistaken for your latest PlayStation 3 title from a major game studio, but that's not the point of 'ICED.' 'ICED' is an attempt to use a popular interactive medium to educate people about a misunderstood and controversial topic, so go easy on the gameplay critiques! [Source: ICEDgame.com, via: Boing Boing]
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newsBreakingNewslawpoliticsFri, 02 May 2008 17:24:00 EST<![CDATA[Man Stages Wii Fit Experiment to Lose Weight, Gain Fame]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/05/02/man-stages-wii-fit-experiment-to-lose-weight-gain-fame/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/02/man-stages-wii-fit-experiment-to-lose-weight-gain-fame/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/02/man-stages-wii-fit-experiment-to-lose-weight-gain-fame/#commentsFiled under:


About a year ago, one morbidly obese (er, a tiny bit chubby) man began a quest to find out what happens when you stop being polite and try to exercise via Wii Sports (see above). Apparently after losing 9 pounds, dropping two points from his BMI, and 3-inches from his waist, he's ready to go again, this time with the Wii Fit. Sure, it sounds like a second-rate 'Super Size Me' publicity stunt -- and it probably is -- but who doesn't want to see just how lean the Wii's newest accessory can get you? Now, the tubby 191 pound man will run himself through a rigorous Wii Fit program for five shocking weeks. The stunt has already scored him an early Fit from Nintendo, so there's no telling where this could go. We expect to see an Adonis or skeleton when it's all over, pal -- either will do. [Source: WiiNintendo]
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newsBreakingNewsnintendowiiFri, 02 May 2008 13:27:00 EST<![CDATA[MADD Wants 'Grand Theft Auto IV' Sales Stopped]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/05/02/madd-wants-grand-theft-auto-iv-sales-stopped/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/02/madd-wants-grand-theft-auto-iv-sales-stopped/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/02/madd-wants-grand-theft-auto-iv-sales-stopped/#commentsFiled under: ,

MADD Wants GTA IV Sales StoppedWith each subsequent release of the 'Grand Theft Auto' (GTA) series there is always a stir of controversy, with various concerned groups trying to ban the games. The recently released 'GTA IV' is no different, and the latest group to take issue with the game is Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD). The group takes issue with the driving aspects of the game -- specifically, the parts of driving that take place after main character Nico has had something to drink.

That's right, they don't care about shooting people, stealing cars, running down police officers, soliciting prostitutes, or any of the other fanciful and felonious things you can do in the game. They're worried about the drunk driving, and are calling on Take-Two, the game's publisher, to stop sales of the game. For its part, Rockstar, the game's developer, said this:

"For the same reason that you can't judge an entire film or television program by a single scene, you can't judge 'Grand Theft Auto IV' by a small aspect of the game."

We would tend to agree, and think that the MADD folks would have a lot more to be worried about if they actually played the game. We did, and we think it's fab -- but it's definitely not for young, impressionable types. [Source: AOL News/AP]
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newsBreakingNewsgrand theft autoGrandTheftAutogta ivGtaIvmaddFri, 02 May 2008 09:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Is 'Grand Theft Auto 4' Bigger Than Movies, Music, and Books?]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/04/30/is-grand-theft-auto-4-bigger-than-movies-music-and-books/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/30/is-grand-theft-auto-4-bigger-than-movies-music-and-books/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/30/is-grand-theft-auto-4-bigger-than-movies-music-and-books/#commentsFiled under:


gta 4 bigger than movies
'Grand Theft Auto IV' - or simply 'GTA4' to video game fans in the know - is poised to break sales records during its first week of commercial release, with industry experts predicting it will sell about 6 million copies and make close to $400 million. Though the immense crossover mainstream popularity of the GTA franchise can't be ignored entirely, these big numbers are due in large part to this latest version of the violent game franchise from Rockstar Games being playable on both the Sony PlayStation 3 and the Microsoft Xbox 360, where previous versions were only compatible with the Sony platform.

But how does this expected game-buying frenzy compare to other entertainment product sales, such as in music, movies, and books?

Well, Mariah Carey's latest number one album E=MC2 debuted with opening week sales of 463,000 copies, reestablishing the diva as a major force in pop music. Impressive numbers for an album but nowhere close to GTA4's expected performance.

How about movies? 'Spider Man 3' opened the weekend of May 4, 2007, on 4,252 screens, taking in an average of $35,540 per screen for a record first weekend total of $151,116,080, eventually on its way to a gross of $336,530,303. Again, big numbers but still short of what's expected for GTA4.

In books, the best seller "A Thousand Splendid Suns," Khaled Hosseini's follow-up novel to his best selling "The Kite Runner," had a first-run printing of 1,255,000 copies, with additional printings required almost every day its first week to keep pace with demand.

In each category, the numbers speak to the different overall popularity and accessibility of the content. Lest you become too concerned that reading is a lost cause in the face of video games, you should know that video game enthusiasts (as is the case with movie enthusiasts) tend to coalesce around a small collection of popular titles, while even best selling books are themselves still a niche product with targeted audiences. (Case in point: Oprah's Book Club.)

So, how hard would it be for you to get your hands on a copy of GTA4? Reports abound of the crime inspired game inspiring criminal acts all its own, with some UPS drivers being accused of "rerouting" copies of the game discs intended for consumer delivery. (For shame.)

Still, we assume those count as sales.

Gallery: Grand Theft Auto IV

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newsBreakingNewsexpire-images2009-4-30gtaivWed, 30 Apr 2008 13:09:00 EST<![CDATA[Electronic Arts Shutting Down 'EA Land' (and 'The Sims Online')]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/04/30/ea-shutting-down-ea-land-and-the-sims-online/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/30/ea-shutting-down-ea-land-and-the-sims-online/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/30/ea-shutting-down-ea-land-and-the-sims-online/#commentsFiled under: ,

EA Shutting Down EA Land (and The Sims Online)'The Sims,' from gaming mega-publisher Electronic Arts is the most popular PC game of all time. Its dozens of successful releases and expansion packs over the years have cemented that position, but one of its iterations, 2002's 'The Sims Online,' never quite caught on. EA kept it running for years, and just last February rolled it into the new 'EA Land' free online game. Now, just a few months after that re-launch, the company is announcing the service is shutting down in August.

'EA Land' was set to expand on the somewhat dire situation of 'The Sims Online,' fixing the main complaint users had: There was no user-created content (a functionality that exists in virtual worlds such as Second Life and games massively-multiplayer online games such as 'World of Warcraft'). The new expansion was set to enable users to make their own furniture and the like.

Unfortunately for fans of 'Sims Online,' that's all been scrapped, as the game is set to limp on for the next three months before going offline. Like fans of Disney's 'Virtual Magic Kingdom,' many 'Sims Online' fans are crying foul, saying EA just went through the trouble of renaming the game to something else before shutting it down so that they could avoid the dishonor of killing a 'Sims' title. That's a bit dubious, but it is awfully odd that the company would kill the service so quickly after its re-launch. [Source: News.com]
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newsBreakingNewsea landEaLandelectronic artsElectronicArtsthe simsTheSimsWed, 30 Apr 2008 09:48:00 EST<![CDATA[Force Dynamics 301 Driving Simulator Takes on Super Mario Kart]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/04/29/force-dynamics-301-driving-simulator-takes-on-super-mario-kart/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/29/force-dynamics-301-driving-simulator-takes-on-super-mario-kart/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/29/force-dynamics-301-driving-simulator-takes-on-super-mario-kart/#commentsFiled under: ,


While most of the cool kids are off whizzing around courses in Mario Kart Wii, the gurus at Force Dynamics are reminiscing about the one that started it all. Apparently the firm has tweaked its 301 motion platform to actually control the kart in the SNES hit, and the rider's chair even leaps up along with Mario, Peach or any other jumping character you choose. Sure, it's missing those absolutely brain-melting Wii graphics (but not by much, if you catch our drift), but we'd probably take a ride in this over an hour with the Wii Wheel any day. Check out the full video waiting after the break. [Source: Force Dynamics]
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>nintendoTue, 29 Apr 2008 15:23:00 EST<![CDATA[Man Stabbed In Line to Buy 'Grand Theft Auto IV']]>http://www.switched.com/2008/04/29/man-stabbed-in-line-to-buy-grand-theft-auto-iv/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/29/man-stabbed-in-line-to-buy-grand-theft-auto-iv/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/29/man-stabbed-in-line-to-buy-grand-theft-auto-iv/#commentsFiled under:



In the latest case of life imitating art, violence erupted last night among eager video gamers waiting to buy 'Grand Theft Auto IV,' a title that encourages players to engage in virtual criminal acts to complete the game. First, a 23-year-old man waiting in line in for the game outside a video game store in London, England was stabbed repeatedly by a passer-by. Then, in a separate incident outside of a different store (also in the United Kingdom), an 18-year-old was attacked by two assailants, who took off with the freshly-purchased copy of 'Grand Theft Auto IV' and left the poor teen with a broken nose and mouth.

The UK is no stranger to game-related violence, but it's usually of the soccer-hooligan variety. Now it seems as though the UK is joining the US as a breeding ground for crazy gaming consumers who somehow can't wait for the real thing (the game) to start the violence, so they're resorting to the actual real thing (i.e. real, live violence). It's either that, or these British gamer thugs just don't want to pay the 40 pounds (about $80) that 'GTA IV' costs in the UK (it's only $60 here in the US).

Either way, it makes us wonder, are video gamers becoming the new soccer hooligans? In the UK, at least, it seems as though they are. [Source: TimesOnline]
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newsBreakingNewsexpire-images2009-4-28gta ivGtaIvviolenceTue, 29 Apr 2008 14:05:00 EST<![CDATA['Grand Theft Auto IV' Set to Shatter Sales Records]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/04/29/grand-theft-auto-iv-set-to-shatter-sales-records/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/29/grand-theft-auto-iv-set-to-shatter-sales-records/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/29/grand-theft-auto-iv-set-to-shatter-sales-records/#commentsFiled under:

GTA IV Set to Shatter Sales Records'Grand Theft Auto IV' (GTA IV)drops officially today, though if you stayed up late last night you may already have cracked open your copy (and be a little bleary-eyed at work or school this morning). We don't have any official numbers yet, but just about everyone is expecting that, by the end of the week, the game will have smashed the opening day sales records set last year by Microsoft's 'Halo 3.' That game sold $170 million in copies in a 24-hour period, and with 'GTA' hitting both the PlayStation 3 (PS3) and Xbox 360 on the same day ,it should easily best that.

If you're picking up the game and aren't quite sure where to begin, you're in luck: Joystiq has drafted up a primer for the game that will give you some history on the series, check out reviews from around the Web, and look at some pics of the people who did stand out in the elements last night for a chance to be the first to get hands-on with the game. That way you can feel like you were truly dedicated enough to be there for the launch while still getting a good night's sleep! [Sources: BBC and Joystiq]
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gta ivGtaIvhalo 3Halo3playstation 3Playstation3xbox 360Xbox360Tue, 29 Apr 2008 11:46:00 EST<![CDATA['Grand Theft Auto IV' Scores Perfect Reviews Ahead of Release]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/04/28/grand-theft-auto-iv-scores-perfect-reviews-ahead-of-release/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/28/grand-theft-auto-iv-scores-perfect-reviews-ahead-of-release/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/28/grand-theft-auto-iv-scores-perfect-reviews-ahead-of-release/#commentsFiled under:

GTA IV Scores Perfect Reviews Ahead of ReleaseThe oft-delayed, eagerly-anticipated, and always controversial 'Grand Theft Auto IV' is just a day away from public consumption (less if you're hitting one of the many midnight launches tonight). But that doesn't mean that the lucky video game journalists of the world haven't been having their kicks with the game for the past few weeks and, with the press black-out lifted ahead of today's release, there's a veritable crush of reviews online to peruse today. If you had any doubt out whether to pick this one up, then reading any of them will get rid of that quickly.

Reviews were almost entirely perfect, with a string of 10-out-of-10 and 100% scores meaning this could be the highest scoring game of all time. IGN called the game "the American dream," raved about the graphics and fast load times, and said it delivered an immersive artificial world unseen anywhere else, giving it a perfect score in a whopping seven-page review. 1UP had much the same to say, talking about the game's "breathtaking vistas" and also laying on a perfect score -- despite complaining about a few minor flaws (repetitive car models and no mid-mission checkpoints to save your progress). Even the usually conservative Eurogamer gave this one a perfect score, calling it "miraculous" and indicating that it is the best written and most engrossing game yet in the series.

As far as the question of which version is best to play -- PlayStation 3 (PS3) or Xbox 360 -- the reviews seemed to show little preference. When there was any preference, the reviews tended to favor the PS3 version for its slight graphical edge, but ultimately leaned towards the Xbox 360's achievement system and promise of extra downloadable content in the future.

Regardless which platform you choose, it looks like you're in for some fun.
Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newsBreakingNewsGTA IVGtaIvps3xbox 360Xbox360Mon, 28 Apr 2008 18:17:00 EST<![CDATA[Parents More Concerned About Sex Than Violence In Video Games]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/04/25/parents-more-offended-by-gay-kissing-than-violence-in-video-game/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/25/parents-more-offended-by-gay-kissing-than-violence-in-video-game/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/25/parents-more-offended-by-gay-kissing-than-violence-in-video-game/#commentsFiled under:


In a recent survey the gaming site, WhatTheyPlay.Com, asked its visitors, who are mostly the parents, to rate what they found most offensive in video games. The site is an online resource for parents, filled with information about the video games their children might be playing, as well as ratings by the Entertainment Software Association(formerly the ESRB) and ratings voted upon by users. The results of the poll showed that 37 percent of US parents thought a man and a woman having sex was the most offensive act, while two men kissing was deemed slightly more offensive than a severed head, with 27 percent and 26 percent of the vote, respectively.

These results sugggest that American parents have largely given up on their crusade against violence in video games and are now more concerned with sex. It's not the same around the world, though: A Norwegian gaming site ran the same poll with nearly the opposite results -- the severed head won 65.8% of the vote! We remember the days when you couldn't change the channel without hearing some pundit ranting about violence in mortal combat, and the demoralizing effect it has on children.

What could possibly be gained by keeping our kids from seeing pixelated versions of human sexuality, we may never know, but apparently American parents still think it's a worthwhile pursuit. So does the ESA. Of the 23 games it has rated Adults-Only, only two were given the rating for reasons other than sexual content, and one of those was an online gambling game. [Source Gaming Today]
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>surveysFri, 25 Apr 2008 14:43:00 EST<![CDATA['Guitar Hero' to Get Drums, Vocals, and Downloadable Songs]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/04/24/guitar-hero-to-get-drums-vocals-and-downloadable-songs/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/24/guitar-hero-to-get-drums-vocals-and-downloadable-songs/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/24/guitar-hero-to-get-drums-vocals-and-downloadable-songs/#commentsFiled under:



Sure people were excited to see Slash in 'Guitar Hero III,' but 'Rock Band' stole Activision's thunder when it debuted with tons of dowloadable content and additional instruments. But in an interview in Conde Nast Portfolio, Activision CEO, Bobby Kotick, revealed that Rock Band wont be alone for long in the drums and microphone as video game accessory market.

Also, this June will see the release of 'Guitar Hero: Aerosmith,' which should usher 'Guitar Hero III' into the downloadable content era. The potential for downloadable tracks is doubly exciting with the pending merger between Activision and Vivendi Universal on the horizon, giving the guitar game series access to the stable of labels and acts under the Universal Music Group banner. [Source: Joystiq]
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newsBreakingNewsguitarherorock bandrock-bandRockBandThu, 24 Apr 2008 07:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Life-Size 'Ghostbusters' Ecto-1 Car Wows Gamers]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/04/23/ghostbusters-pr-car/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/23/ghostbusters-pr-car/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/23/ghostbusters-pr-car/#commentsFiled under: ,



Got a game to pimp,
In your neighborhood.
Who you gonna call?
Vivendi's marketing team, apparently.

In preparation for the release of the new (and surprisingly great-looking) 'Ghostbusters' game this fall, the folks at Vivendi put together a recreation of in infamous Ecto-1. It was built from the ground-up, and from the looks of things (and trust us, gbfans.com looks pretty damn closely), no detail was spared.

Let's hope the game is equally coherent. [Source: GBFans.com]
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>weirdWed, 23 Apr 2008 19:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Five Flash Games to Waste Away the Afternoon]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/04/18/five-flash-games-to-waste-away-the-afternoon/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/18/five-flash-games-to-waste-away-the-afternoon/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/18/five-flash-games-to-waste-away-the-afternoon/#commentsFiled under:

Stuck at your desk with some time to waste before a meeting? Flash games are perfect for filling in your spare time: The games load quickly, they require no installation or downloads, and, most importantly, they can be quickly minimized and replaced with that spreadsheet you should be working on. We picked out five of the most addictive and creative Flash games that are sure to make the hours fly by.



Line Rider

We still can't quite figure out why creating tracks and loops for a little man to slide down is so much fun, but it's the kind of gameplay that has made Line Rider a classic entry in the ever-expanding world of time-wasting Flash games. Though it has no defined goals or scoring systems, Line Rider can keep you entertained for hours while you try to perfect a huge jump-backflip-loop combo. Don't miss the insane levels created with the simple track editor on YouTube.


Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>flashflashgamegameFri, 18 Apr 2008 15:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Diane Sawyer and the 'Good Morning America' Crew Ski On the Wii]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/04/18/diane-sawyer-and-the-good-morning-america-crew-ski-on-the-wii/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/18/diane-sawyer-and-the-good-morning-america-crew-ski-on-the-wii/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/18/diane-sawyer-and-the-good-morning-america-crew-ski-on-the-wii/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Diane Sawyer and her companions on 'Good Morning America' got their hands (well, feet) on the hotly anticipated Wii Fit, due out May 19. The $90 package comes with a balance board used to track your weight and play a number of physically involved mini-games that test your balance, coordination, and get your heart rate up... in theory.

Despite reports of people testing the Wii Fit and losing weight with it, Diane Sawyer's performance on the balance board isn't convincing us that this is the answer to America's obesity problem. No one in this video is breaking a sweat, unless it's from the discomfort of looking like an idiot on national television. [Source: GeekSugar]
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newsBreakingNewsdiane sawyerDianeSawyergood morning americaGoodMorningAmericanintendowiiwii fitWiiFitFri, 18 Apr 2008 14:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Obama, Hillary, and Tom Selleck Make List of Top Wii Mii Faces]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/04/18/the-top-14-wii-mii-faces/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/18/the-top-14-wii-mii-faces/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/18/the-top-14-wii-mii-faces/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



With its relatively simple, intuitive tools, the Nintendo Wii's create-an-avatar feature has been a hit, spawning countless spoofs and homages, including our personal favorite, The Mii Lebowski.

Now the fine slobs over at Slobs of Gaming have compiled a Mii "Best of" list, which includes Nintendo-fied renditions of such celebrities as Tom Selleck, one of the 'Star Wars' Storm Troopers, and Jesus H. Christ.

They're all pretty spot-on, except for Barack Obama, who looks more like Bryant Gumbel.

Welcome to 2008, where the Mii face is the new O face. [Source: Slobs of Gaming]

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newsBreakingNewselectionmiipoliticswiiFri, 18 Apr 2008 10:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Man Threatens Mom With Knife After Xbox 360 Dies]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/04/16/man-threatens-mom-with-knife-after-xbox-360-dies/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/16/man-threatens-mom-with-knife-after-xbox-360-dies/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/16/man-threatens-mom-with-knife-after-xbox-360-dies/#commentsFiled under:

Xbox Red Ring of Death Leads to Knife Threat

Lots and lots of gamers out there have been more than a little irritated by the Xbox 360's rather consistent problems with the so-called red ring of death. The bane of many a gamer's existence, the three red rings have been appearing after a few months (or years) after the Xbox is purchased and indicate that the console no longer works.

Microsoft did extend the warranty (twice) and is fixing the problem for free, but that wasn't enough for one hardcore gamer in Fort Pierce, Florida, who couldn't wait the 30 days for the repair. He demanded his mother order him a new one and, when she refused, threatened her with a knife.

The man, 19-year-old Roman White, had just been released from jail the previous Sunday, and is already back behind bars on charges of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.

From Newsvine and TCPalm


Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newsBreakingNewscrimemicrosoftRedRingOfDeathXbox 360Xbox360Wed, 16 Apr 2008 17:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Remote-Control Car Plays Super Mario Theme On Water Bottles (Video)]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/04/16/remote-control-car-plays-super-mario-theme-on-water-bottles-vid/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/16/remote-control-car-plays-super-mario-theme-on-water-bottles-vid/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/16/remote-control-car-plays-super-mario-theme-on-water-bottles-vid/#commentsFiled under:



This video made us so nostalgic for the '80s that we just had to share. In the clip, an anonymous Chinese man has arranged a row of bottles filled with varying levels of liquid in a parking garage. Each of the bottles is filled with the right amount of water to play specific notes in the Super Mario Bros video game theme. The bottles are lined up in the right order so that when a remote-control (RC) car runs along the row with a piece of metal strapped to it, the Mario theme plays.

While a man named Michel Lauzière has done similar things with roller skates and a Mozart theme, we gotta admit that this 'Mario Bros' trick is a little bit cooler. Besides, the look on that parking lot security guard's face is priceless. Nice one, random Chinese guy! [Sou