Switched http://www.switched.com Switched http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.switched.com/media/feedlogo.gif Switched http://www.switched.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Dinos and Trenches in '1916 - The War You Never Knew']]>http://www.switched.com/2011/04/11/1916-the-war-we-never-knew-dinos-in-the-trenches/http://www.switched.com/2011/04/11/1916-the-war-we-never-knew-dinos-in-the-trenches/http://www.switched.com/2011/04/11/1916-the-war-we-never-knew-dinos-in-the-trenches/#comments 1916 - The War You Never Knew This week's batch of games take its inspiration from real life, but twists your expectations in weird and wonderful ways. Consider it an alchemical transformation that results in gaming gold.

We're no history buffs, but we're fairly certain that World War I did not involve ferocious velociraptors stalking hapless soldiers through the trenches. (But who knows? Maybe we were absent the day it was covered in history class.) The creators of '1916 - The War You Never Knew' -- a first-person survival horror experience set in the dingy trenches of the Great War -- clearly took inspiration from indie sensation 'Amnesia: The Dark Descent.' Setting this type of game in this type of environment is brilliant; it allows for a claustrophobic world that doesn't feel artificially constrained, and makes for a genuinely scary experience, notwithstanding the addition of deadly dinosaurs.

Gallery: 1916 - The War You Never Knew

Continue reading Dinos and Trenches in '1916 - The War You Never Knew'

SwitchedDinos and Trenches in '1916 - The War You Never Knew' originally appeared on Switched on Mon, 11 Apr 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1916 - the war you never knew1916-TheWarYouNeverKnewappsgamesonthegogamingnewsmainos xOsXtime wastersTimeWasterstopvideogameswindowsMon, 11 Apr 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[West Bank Settlers Spread Propaganda Using Violent Video Games]]>http://www.switched.com/2011/04/11/west-bank-settlers-spread-propaganda-using-violent-video-games/http://www.switched.com/2011/04/11/west-bank-settlers-spread-propaganda-using-violent-video-games/http://www.switched.com/2011/04/11/west-bank-settlers-spread-propaganda-using-violent-video-games/#comments Israeli Propaganda Games Using video games as propaganda is nothing new. The U.S. has been doing it with 'America's Army' for some time, while Hezbollah has employed 'Special Force' to spread its message. But those games might seem quaint and diplomatic in the face of a series of games from Residents' Councils of Samaria and Binyamin, an advocacy group for Jewish settlers in the West Bank. The organization has released a trio of violent shoot-'em-ups with Biblical roots and a pro-Israeli bent. The first, 'Judah Maccabee,' puts players in the role of a Maccabee soldier (a rebel army that took control of Judea from the Greeks around 167 B.C.) as he infiltrates a Greek camp. The second, 'Ahab in Samaria,' has players defending Israel from invading soldiers. 'Ammunition Hill,' the most recent game, puts players in the boots of a soldier during the invasion of East Jerusalem during the Six-Day War.

The games are rough-looking by American standards, with simplistic play reminiscent of 'Doom.' They were developed by Virtual 3D, a company that primarily traffics in archaeological software, using Shockwave (a relative of Flash). The games aren't going to win any converts to the settlers' cause, and will probably further put off those who are already unsympathetic. But propaganda will always have its place, and in the digital age that place is online games.

SwitchedWest Bank Settlers Spread Propaganda Using Violent Video Games originally appeared on Switched on Mon, 11 Apr 2011 11:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AhabInSamariaAmmunitionHillgamingisraelJudahMaccabeepoliticspropagandatopVideoGamesvirtual 3dVirtual3dMon, 11 Apr 2011 11:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Switched's Comprehensive Guide to Video Game Emulators]]>http://www.switched.com/video-game-emulators/switched-ultimate-guide-retro-gaming/http://www.switched.com/video-game-emulators/switched-ultimate-guide-retro-gaming/http://www.switched.com/video-game-emulators/switched-ultimate-guide-retro-gaming/#commentsThe video game emulator -- the bit of software that allows nostalgic button-mashers to mount an NES on their PCs in order to relive halcyon "HADOUKEN!" days -- is one of the most misunderstood elements of modern computing. But we're here to tell you exactly what they are, how they work, and even offer a comprehensive directory of the best ones for your favorite platform. Read on for our indispensable manual for the contemporary gamer looking back to a time when finally figuring out Kitana's "Babality" was a day's work well done.

Continue reading Switched's Comprehensive Guide to Video Game Emulators

SwitchedSwitched's Comprehensive Guide to Video Game Emulators originally appeared on Switched on Sat, 09 Apr 2011 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arcade gamingArcadeGamingAtari 2600Atari2600classic+video+gamingclassicvideogamingcommodore 64Commodore64console+emulator+for+linuxconsoleemulatorforlinuxemulationemulation guideEmulationGuideemulatoremulatorsfeaturesgame boyGameBoygamingNESnew+c64+emulatornewc64emulatornintendoNintendo 64Nintendo64PlayStationPSXScummvmsega genesissega master systemSega SaturnSegaGenesisSegaMasterSystemSegaSaturnsonysony playstationSonyPlaystationsuper nintendoSuperNintendotopvideo+game+emulatorvideo+game+emulatorsvideogameemulatorvideogameemulatorsSat, 09 Apr 2011 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA['Lesbian Spider-Queens of Mars' Is More Retro Than Risque]]>http://www.switched.com/2011/04/08/lesbian-spider-queens-of-mars-is-more-retro-than-risque/http://www.switched.com/2011/04/08/lesbian-spider-queens-of-mars-is-more-retro-than-risque/http://www.switched.com/2011/04/08/lesbian-spider-queens-of-mars-is-more-retro-than-risque/#comments Lesbian Spider-Queens of Mars This week we're showing love to the latest games from some of our favorite designers. These are creators from whom we've come to expect the best -- and this week's picks certainly live up to our expectations.

Self-professed "dot matrix dominatrix" Anna Anthropy (a.k.a. Auntie Pixelante) has consistently wowed us in the past. Her latest game is the intriguingly titled 'Lesbian Spider-Queens of Mars.' Modeled after the classic arcade game 'Wizard of Wor,' it perfectly recreates the feel of a greasy, soda-stained arcade cabinet. Simplistic yet addictive, 'Lesbian Spider-Queens of Mars' is a brilliant example of retro gaming done right.

Gallery: Lesbian Spider-Queens of Mars

Switched'Lesbian Spider-Queens of Mars' Is More Retro Than Risque originally appeared on Switched on Fri, 08 Apr 2011 17:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gamesonthegogaminglesbian spider-queens of marsLesbianSpider-queensOfMarsnewsmaintimewasterstopvideogamesFri, 08 Apr 2011 17:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Level Up Your MMORPG Character Using Developing Economies]]>http://www.switched.com/2011/04/08/world-bank-reports-mmorpg-gold-mining/http://www.switched.com/2011/04/08/world-bank-reports-mmorpg-gold-mining/http://www.switched.com/2011/04/08/world-bank-reports-mmorpg-gold-mining/#comments 'world of warcraft' Next time you are scoring that amazing Amethyst Helm of Schadenfreude for your Level 38 Warlock Raider (I just made that up, but I hope something like that exists), you may be helping people in developing countries to make some cash. According to the BBC and a report released by the World Bank -- which is apparently now studying the effects of 'World of Warcraft' (PDF) on the economy -- when Western players want high level items or mined gold, they'll often use real currency to buy from players in Vietnam and China who are paid to level up.

These virtual goods are nothing to sniff at, with certain accounts laying out megabucks for whatever helms and chainmail they fancy. The report estimates that the largest Chinese suppliers of in-game "gold" net nearly $10 million, while other firms can make up to $1 million; the whole worldwide virtual market is nearly an $8 billion dollar industry. The good news is that, because there are no real supply costs, a large portion of the profits go into the hands of the worker, directly benefiting them instead of a corporation. The bad news is that, with Western gamers shelling out all of their money to buy better in-game goods, they'll never be able to save up money to move out of Mom's basement. Bad-um!

SwitchedLevel Up Your MMORPG Character Using Developing Economies originally appeared on Switched on Fri, 08 Apr 2011 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chinadeveloping worldDevelopingWorldmmommo-industrymmorpgtopvietnamvirtual currencyvirtual-worldsVirtualCurrencyworld bankworld of warcraftWorldBankWorldOfWarcraftFri, 08 Apr 2011 15:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Surreal Gaming in 'Machinarium' Creator's Latest, 'Osada']]>http://www.switched.com/2011/04/07/osada-game-from-amanita-design/http://www.switched.com/2011/04/07/osada-game-from-amanita-design/http://www.switched.com/2011/04/07/osada-game-from-amanita-design/#comments Osada This week we're showing love to the latest games from some of our favorite designers. These are creators that we've come to expect the best from -- and this week's picks certainly live up our expectations.

If you've played either of Amanita Design's previous works -- the 'Samorost' series or 'Machinarium' -- you know to expect a visually thrilling spectacle. Amanita's latest game, 'Osada,' leans more towards the surreal insanity of their 'Samorost' games than the more puzzle-oriented 'Machinarium,' with a stream-of-consciousness flow of nonsensical visuals and simple point-and-click puzzles. Oozing with irreverence and insanity, 'Osada' is an invigorating time-waster that's sure to delight anyone with a taste for the strange.

Gallery: Osada

SwitchedSurreal Gaming in 'Machinarium' Creator's Latest, 'Osada' originally appeared on Switched on Thu, 07 Apr 2011 17:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AmanitaDesigngamesonthegogamingnewsmainosadatimewasterstopvideogamesThu, 07 Apr 2011 17:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Tony Montana Would Not Approve of a 'Scarface'-Motivated Killing]]>http://www.switched.com/2011/04/07/alejandro-garcia-kills-cousin-over-scarface-video-game/http://www.switched.com/2011/04/07/alejandro-garcia-kills-cousin-over-scarface-video-game/http://www.switched.com/2011/04/07/alejandro-garcia-kills-cousin-over-scarface-video-game/#comments 'scarface: the world is yours' Well, this is the world that we live in now: 22-year-old Texan Alejandro Garcia pleaded guilty to shooting his then-17-year-old cousin over who would get the next turn to play 'Scarface: The World Is Yours.' The world certainly doesn't belong to either cousin now; Garcia has a sentence of 30 years, and his cousin was killed in the tragic event. Life imitates art, which sucks when the "art" is Al Pacino with a bad accent, killing people over drug deals gone awry and whoever is shtupping his wife.

SwitchedTony Montana Would Not Approve of a 'Scarface'-Motivated Killing originally appeared on Switched on Thu, 07 Apr 2011 16:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alejandro garciaAlejandroGarciacrimegamingscarfaceScarface-The-World-Is-Yourstony montanaTonyMontanatopThu, 07 Apr 2011 16:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Turn Your Friends Into Stock With Empire Avenue's Social Game]]>http://www.switched.com/2011/04/07/empire-avenue-game-turns-friends-into-stock/http://www.switched.com/2011/04/07/empire-avenue-game-turns-friends-into-stock/http://www.switched.com/2011/04/07/empire-avenue-game-turns-friends-into-stock/#comments empire avenue Social networking is a numbers game. Not only do you try to get the "right" amount of friends on Facebook and a good follower/followed ratio on Twitter, but it's all about wielding some social currency: who knows whom, where you get invited, if you'll get the scoop on the latest celeb death. Nowadays, social networking is quantifying the power of your friendships.

But talking analytics will make the average Facebooker's eyes glaze over. Transitioning it into a buy/sell/trade stock market game, however, suddenly turns your socialite friend into a hot commodity. Empire Avenue, a "social influence stock market" has now launched its Facebook app, which allows players to "buy and sell" the people they know, leveraging profit. The idea is that active, socially "fluent" people are worth more -- the more you tweet, post and share, the higher your value is. Then, you can take the game's currency, called "eaves," and purchase in-game items, which can also increase your value. The more people you invite, the greater access you'll have.

Continue reading Turn Your Friends Into Stock With Empire Avenue's Social Game

SwitchedTurn Your Friends Into Stock With Empire Avenue's Social Game originally appeared on Switched on Thu, 07 Apr 2011 15:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appsempire avenueEmpireAvenuefacebookgamingsocial networksocial networkingSocialNetworkSocialNetworkingstock marketStockMarkettoptwitterThu, 07 Apr 2011 15:10:00 EST<![CDATA[GameStop Unveils New Facebook Store]]>http://www.switched.com/2011/04/07/gamestop-unveils-new-facebook-store/http://www.switched.com/2011/04/07/gamestop-unveils-new-facebook-store/http://www.switched.com/2011/04/07/gamestop-unveils-new-facebook-store/#comments gamestop on facebook GameStop opened a new store today on Facebook. The shop, accessible via GameStop's Facebook page, allows users to purchase games online, read product reviews, watch trailers and find nearby GameStop outlets. Fans of the retailer can also "like" and share specific games on Facebook, and earn points via GameStop's customer loyalty program.

Today's launch is just the latest in a series of recent moves from GameStop, which appears eager to expand its operations. Last year, the company bought social gaming site Kongregate, and, just a few days ago, it acquired game-streaming startup Spawn Labs. According to Technologizer, GameStop has even considered developing its own tablet, though details remain hazy.

SwitchedGameStop Unveils New Facebook Store originally appeared on Switched on Thu, 07 Apr 2011 14:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>facebookgamesgamestopgamingSocialGamingSocialNetworkingtopVideoGamesWebThu, 07 Apr 2011 14:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Old School Meets New School in Locomalito's 'Viriax']]>http://www.switched.com/2011/04/06/locomalito-viriax-game-is-a-vertical-scroller/http://www.switched.com/2011/04/06/locomalito-viriax-game-is-a-vertical-scroller/http://www.switched.com/2011/04/06/locomalito-viriax-game-is-a-vertical-scroller/#comments Viriax This week we're showing love to the latest games from some of our favorite designers. These are creators that we've come to expect the best from - and this week's picks certainly live up our expectations.

Designer Locomalito can always be trusted to deliver the goods when it comes to games that are as retro as they are forward-thinking. His latest, 'Viriax,' is a great example of this, mixing a simple, old-school feel with a few game play twists that make the experience far more than an exercise in nostalgic reverence. Most importantly, your method of attack requires getting ahead of your foes and attacking downward. That's already mind-bending enough in a vertical scrolling game like 'Viriax,' but add in the randomly generated levels and a glorious assortment of power-ups, and you've got a fresh game that's easy to get into. Locomalito has once again proven why he's one of the best indie developers working today.

Gallery: Viriax

SwitchedOld School Meets New School in Locomalito's 'Viriax' originally appeared on Switched on Wed, 06 Apr 2011 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gamesonthegogaminglocomalitonewsmaintimewasterstopvideo gamesVideoGamesviriaxWed, 06 Apr 2011 17:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Play the Incredible 'Iconoclasts', Then Help Finish It]]>http://www.switched.com/2011/04/05/konjak-iconoclasts-video-game/http://www.switched.com/2011/04/05/konjak-iconoclasts-video-game/http://www.switched.com/2011/04/05/konjak-iconoclasts-video-game/#comments Iconoclasts This week we're showing love to the latest games from some of our favorite designers. These are creators that we've come to expect the best from - and this week's picks certainly live up our expectations, leaving us fiending for what's next.

Anyone who's played designer Konjak's previous works -- particularly 'Legend of Princess' -- knows the level of artistry he attains with pixels. His latest unfinished game 'Iconoclasts' is further proof of his skills. Incredible to behold, with whimsical character acting, fluid animation and lushly designed levels, 'Iconoclasts' feels like the creation of some alternate dimension in which pixelated art never went away.

What's going on under the hood is just as impressive. The game features perfectly executed side scrolling gameplay that feels straight out of 'Metroid' and 'Mega Man.' That's why it hurts so much to hear that Konjak may be abandoning the project. But you can help him finish: Download the game for your PC and, if you like it, you can donate to Konjak directly through his website, and support his continued game development.

Gallery: Iconoclasts

SwitchedPlay the Incredible 'Iconoclasts', Then Help Finish It originally appeared on Switched on Tue, 05 Apr 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appsgamesonthegogamingiconoclastskonjaknewsmaintimewasterstopvideogameswindowsTue, 05 Apr 2011 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Teacher Adapts 'Minecraft' for the Classroom]]>http://www.switched.com/2011/04/05/jeol-levin-adapts-minecraft-for-classrooms/http://www.switched.com/2011/04/05/jeol-levin-adapts-minecraft-for-classrooms/http://www.switched.com/2011/04/05/jeol-levin-adapts-minecraft-for-classrooms/#comments Minecraft Classroom The cult hit 'Minecraft' stands out from the current crop of video games as perhaps the most malleable, and its latest adaptation is as a classroom aid. Computer teacher Joel Levin at Columbia Grammar and Preparatory School has adapted the game to teach an entire unit to his first and second grade students. Lessons start with Levin explaining the day's goals, but quickly move into the world of 'Minecraft,' in which students must work together and explore the vastness of its open-ended landscape.

Tasks range from building structures with limited resources to exploring areas modeled on real-life landmarks like the Pyramids. The nature of 'Minecraft' allows students an incredible amount of freedom in how to approach the problems of the day. That sense of liberation is what helps keep the students engaged. The simpler games and tools that Levin has previously used didn't have the same power to engage students; the free-form approach of 'Minecraft' means that every adventure into its universe can be a completely unique experience.

Continue reading Teacher Adapts 'Minecraft' for the Classroom

SwitchedTeacher Adapts 'Minecraft' for the Classroom originally appeared on Switched on Tue, 05 Apr 2011 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>educationgamingJoelLevinminecraftschoolteachingtopvideo gamesVideoGamesTue, 05 Apr 2011 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA['Hot Throttle': a Terrifying Vision of Racing]]>http://www.switched.com/2011/04/04/hot-throttle-cactus-squid-a-terrifying-vision-of-racing/http://www.switched.com/2011/04/04/hot-throttle-cactus-squid-a-terrifying-vision-of-racing/http://www.switched.com/2011/04/04/hot-throttle-cactus-squid-a-terrifying-vision-of-racing/#comments Full Throttle This week we're showing love to the latest games from some of our favorite designers. These are creators from whom we've come to expect the best -- and this week's picks certainly live up our expectations.

Your writer likes to think of designer Cactus Squid as the David Lynch of gaming. As equally disturbing as they are compelling, Cactus Squid's games are always something we look forward to with feverish anticipation. His latest, 'Full Throttle,' is a nightmarish racing game involving men who turn into cars, competing in order to win money for their man-to-car reassignment surgery... and that's just the tip of the insanity iceberg. While the racing is serviceable, the game more than makes up for its simplistic gameplay with an experience that feels like a combination of the ludicrous 'Cho Aniki' (slightly NSFW) series and classic racing game 'R.C. Pro-Am.' And that's a level of madness we can fully support.

Gallery: Hot Throttle

Switched'Hot Throttle': a Terrifying Vision of Racing originally appeared on Switched on Mon, 04 Apr 2011 19:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Cactus SquidCactusSquidfull throttleFullThrottlegamesonthegogamingnewsmaintimewasterstopvideogamesMon, 04 Apr 2011 19:20:00 EST<![CDATA[The Underwater Odyssey of 'Deep Sea Diver']]>http://www.switched.com/2011/04/01/deep-sea-diver-game/http://www.switched.com/2011/04/01/deep-sea-diver-game/http://www.switched.com/2011/04/01/deep-sea-diver-game/#comments Deep Sea Diver Spring's barely arrived, yet we're already looking ahead to summer and the prospect of lounging on the beach with a trashy paperback in hand. In the meantime, we've picked a few of our favorite nautically themed games to satisfy our longing for the sea.

While it may not be the most accurate portrayal of oceanic treasure hunting, 'Deep Sea Diver' is certainly plenty of fun. Don't let its bright, colorful looks fool you, though. Death still awaits those who linger too long beneath the surface, exploring the darkened labyrinths for relics and cash. Thankfully, your submersible is upgradeable, allowing nautical adventurers to take ever more daring risks. Jacques Cousteau would be proud.

Gallery: Deep Sea Diver

SwitchedThe Underwater Odyssey of 'Deep Sea Diver' originally appeared on Switched on Fri, 01 Apr 2011 18:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>deep sea diverDeepSeaDivergamesonthegogamingnewsmaintimewasterstopvideogamesFri, 01 Apr 2011 18:36:00 EST<![CDATA[U-Move Wii Controller Will Keep You Moving, Won't Take No For an Answer]]>http://www.switched.com/2011/04/01/u-move-wii-controller-uses-pedometer-to-keep-you-moving/http://www.switched.com/2011/04/01/u-move-wii-controller-uses-pedometer-to-keep-you-moving/http://www.switched.com/2011/04/01/u-move-wii-controller-uses-pedometer-to-keep-you-moving/#comments

The U-Move nunchuck controller is like a drill sergeant for the Wii. This little peripheral uses a pedometer to keep track of every step you take, and will let you know exactly how many calories you burn while playing any Wii or Wii-Fit game. Thing is, you'll have to keep moving at all times, in order to "energize" your on-screen character. The minute you stop bouncing around, your thumb stick will be disabled, your character will freeze, and fatness will ensue.

SwitchedU-Move Wii Controller Will Keep You Moving, Won't Take No For an Answer originally appeared on Switched on Fri, 01 Apr 2011 17:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>caloriescontrollerexercisefitnessgamingnintendopedometerperipheralstopu-moveVideoGamesWiiwii-fitFri, 01 Apr 2011 17:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Mother Murders 3-Year-Old Daughter for Tossing Game Console]]>http://www.switched.com/2011/04/01/yui-tanaka-arrested-for-murdering-daughter/http://www.switched.com/2011/04/01/yui-tanaka-arrested-for-murdering-daughter/http://www.switched.com/2011/04/01/yui-tanaka-arrested-for-murdering-daughter/#commentsSadly, this is not an April Fool's joke. 26-year-old Yui Tanaka and her live-in boyfriend are in police custody in Osaka, Japan after the two murdered Tanaka's 3-year-old daughter Shizuku for interrupting their gaming session. According to Nikkei, the mother told investigators that the girl was being "fussy" and "noisy" while the two were trying to play a game and even threw the couple's game console in the trash. "Even when we scolded her, she didn't listen, so we put her in a bag," she said. Tanaka and her boyfriend bound Shizuku's hands and feet with tape, put her in a garbage bag and tied it shut. The child then suffocated to death.

The couple claim they didn't intend to kill Shizuku, which if true, proves the two are not just insane, but insanely stupid. It doesn't help Yui's case that reports are now circulating that she posted a message online that read, "even if this kid died, I wouldn't cry." What a sweetheart.

SwitchedMother Murders 3-Year-Old Daughter for Tossing Game Console originally appeared on Switched on Fri, 01 Apr 2011 12:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crimegamingjapanmurderosakatopyui tanakaYuiTanakaFri, 01 Apr 2011 12:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Avoid the Rising Tide in 'Submerged - LaSol']]>http://www.switched.com/2011/03/31/submerged-lasol-avoid-the-rising-tide/http://www.switched.com/2011/03/31/submerged-lasol-avoid-the-rising-tide/http://www.switched.com/2011/03/31/submerged-lasol-avoid-the-rising-tide/#comments Submerged - LaSol Spring's barely arrived, yet we're already looking ahead to summer and the prospect of lounging on the beach with a trashy paperback in hand. In the meantime, we've picked a few of our favorite nautically themed games to satisfy our longing for the sea.

It's tough being the protagonist of 'Submerged - LaSol,' janitor Stan Winston. (Nice one, guys.) Sure, he gets to work on the man-made, oceanic resort of LaSol, but he also has to contend with the bombing and subsequent sinking of said resort. It's the kind of trade-off that makes one reconsider whether or not that 401k plan is really worth it. Trapped in a small maintenance shaft, you must scramble to freedom before the steadily rising water level catches up with you. The game's strong suit is a level of tension that's not often found in adventure games. Add some solid voice acting and well-animated character animation, and this PC download should become another fantastic (and free) addition to any gamer's library.

Gallery: Submerged - LaSol

SwitchedAvoid the Rising Tide in 'Submerged - LaSol' originally appeared on Switched on Thu, 31 Mar 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appsgamesonthegogamingnewsmainpcSubmerged-LasoltimewasterstopvideogameswindowsThu, 31 Mar 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A Brief, Claustrophobic Adventure in 'Beacon']]>http://www.switched.com/2011/03/30/beacon-brief-claustrophobic-adventure/http://www.switched.com/2011/03/30/beacon-brief-claustrophobic-adventure/http://www.switched.com/2011/03/30/beacon-brief-claustrophobic-adventure/#comments Beacon Spring's barely arrived, yet we're already looking ahead to summer and the prospect of lounging on the beach with a trashy paperback in hand. In the meantime, we've picked a few of our favorite nautically themed games to satisfy our longing for the sea.

'Beacon' is a brief adventure game with one of the most original and eerie settings we've had the pleasure to explore. A Russian space capsule crashes into the bottom of the ocean, and you -- taking on the role of a repair droid -- must find a way to release an emergency beacon before the spacecraft is crushed by undersea pressure. While this PC download only features a handful of environments, each is rendered with an artistic touch. We only wish this tale could have lasted longer. If only an entire space station had crashed instead...

Gallery: Beacon

SwitchedA Brief, Claustrophobic Adventure in 'Beacon' originally appeared on Switched on Wed, 30 Mar 2011 17:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appsbeacongamesonthegogamingnewsmainpctimewasterstopvideogameswindowsWed, 30 Mar 2011 17:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Harpoon Surfing and Other Nautical Nonsense in 'Fishbane']]>http://www.switched.com/2011/03/29/fishbane-harpoon-surfing-and-other-nautical-nonsense/http://www.switched.com/2011/03/29/fishbane-harpoon-surfing-and-other-nautical-nonsense/http://www.switched.com/2011/03/29/fishbane-harpoon-surfing-and-other-nautical-nonsense/#comments Fishbane Spring's barely arrived, yet we're already looking ahead to summer and the prospect of lounging on the beach with a trashy paperback in hand. In the meantime, we've picked a few of our favorite nautically themed games to satisfy our longing for the sea.

'Fishbane' recounts the adventures of our titular hero, who must use an endless supply of harpoons to persevere through a series of puzzling platform challenges. Mastering the harpoon is the key to success, as you can use it to climb ledges, shoot it to trigger switches, and even ride it like a deadly surfboard. Unlike the majority of platform puzzlers out there, 'Fishbane' will actually test your mental mettle, requiring actual brain power to circumvent some of its trickier challenges.

Gallery: Fishbane

SwitchedHarpoon Surfing and Other Nautical Nonsense in 'Fishbane' originally appeared on Switched on Tue, 29 Mar 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fishbaneflashgamesgamesonthegogamingnewsmaintimewasterstopvideogamesTue, 29 Mar 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Your New Addiction: 'GIRP']]>http://www.switched.com/2011/03/29/girp-addicting-game-from-qwop/http://www.switched.com/2011/03/29/girp-addicting-game-from-qwop/http://www.switched.com/2011/03/29/girp-addicting-game-from-qwop/#comments girp We don't like this game at all. To make the beleaguered character climb out of what looks like a pretty nasty dungeon, you have to hit different letters (to move his hands) while pounding on the shift or CTRL keys just so (to flex his muscles, of course). To be frank, we hate 'GIRP.' Our puny hand-eye coordination is not up to the task of pressing multiple buttons at once to make the stupid guy crawl up the stupid wall. But that doesn't mean we're not going to sit here for hours trying. Sicko.

SwitchedYour New Addiction: 'GIRP' originally appeared on Switched on Tue, 29 Mar 2011 18:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gamesgamesonthegogaminggirpgirp+gamegirp+the+gamegirpgamegirpthegametimewasterstopVideoGamesTue, 29 Mar 2011 18:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Augusta National Designs 'Masters' Game, Still Not Sure About the Whole Women Thing]]>http://www.switched.com/2011/03/29/augusta-national-designs-masters-game-still-not-sure-about-th/http://www.switched.com/2011/03/29/augusta-national-designs-masters-game-still-not-sure-about-th/http://www.switched.com/2011/03/29/augusta-national-designs-masters-game-still-not-sure-about-th/#comments Augusta National, home to the prestigious Masters golf tournament, will finally allow women...to play its new video game. That's right -- the stodgiest country club known (exclusively) to man is releasing its own video game, in an apparent attempt to leapfrog the 20th century, and dive head-first into the 21st.

'Tiger Woods PGA Tour 2012: The Masters,' unveiled today, has reportedly been in the works for three years, with developers working to replicate the course in excruciating detail. Every tree depicted in the game has exactly the same number of branches as it does in real life, and weather is determined according to real-time conditions in Augusta. Using laser scanners, the game's architects were able to measure every inch of the course within a 6-millimeter accuracy.

Continue reading Augusta National Designs 'Masters' Game, Still Not Sure About the Whole Women Thing

SwitchedAugusta National Designs 'Masters' Game, Still Not Sure About the Whole Women Thing originally appeared on Switched on Tue, 29 Mar 2011 17:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AugustaNationalgaminggolfsportsTheMasterstiger woodsTigerWoodsTigerWoodsPgaTour2012:TheMasterstopVideoGameswomenTue, 29 Mar 2011 17:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Blast a Hole Through a Balloon Dog in 'Jeff Koons Must Die']]>http://www.switched.com/2011/03/29/jeff-koons-must-die-blast-balloon-dogs/http://www.switched.com/2011/03/29/jeff-koons-must-die-blast-balloon-dogs/http://www.switched.com/2011/03/29/jeff-koons-must-die-blast-balloon-dogs/#comments
Are you just sick to death of the assembly line production of big-name modern art? Does the fact that Jeff Koons employs an army of assistants to construct "his" work make you want to obliterate a Balloon Dog with a rocket launcher? Artist Hunter Jonakin understands how you feel. His 'Jeff Koons Must Die!!!' arcade cabinet lets the player wander a 3-D gallery space and destroy any of the Koons pieces displayed there, including works from his famous Balloon series and his infamous 'Made in Heaven' series. Writes Jonakin:

If nothing is destroyed the player is allowed to look around for a couple of minutes and then the game ends. However, if one or more pieces are destroyed, an animated model of Jeff Koons walks out and chastises the viewer for annihilating his art. He then sends guards to kill the player. If the player survives this round then he or she is afforded the ability to enter a room where waves of curators, lawyers, assistants, and guards spawn until the player is dead.

SwitchedBlast a Hole Through a Balloon Dog in 'Jeff Koons Must Die' originally appeared on Switched on Tue, 29 Mar 2011 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artgamingHunterJonakinJeffKoonsJeffKoonsMustDieTue, 29 Mar 2011 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dive Into the Depths With 'Beneath the Waves']]>http://www.switched.com/2011/03/28/beneath-the-waves-lets-you-dive-deep/http://www.switched.com/2011/03/28/beneath-the-waves-lets-you-dive-deep/http://www.switched.com/2011/03/28/beneath-the-waves-lets-you-dive-deep/#comments Beneath the Waves Spring's barely arrived, yet we're already looking ahead to summer and the prospect of lounging on the beach with a trashy paperback in hand. In the meantime, we've picked a few of our favorite nautically themed games to satisfy our longing for the sea.

'Beneath the Waves' is a seafaring adventure that takes you to the bottom of the ocean floor and back again in search of eight stone idols. Thankfully you have the lung capacity of a humpback whale, since you must dive deep into the depths to recover these idols, all the while avoiding a legion of sea beasties, from sharks to jellyfish. Each idol must then be placed upon a pedestal on the surface, which requires some daring platforming. It's a nice mix of two disparate game-play styles (with an emphasis on finesse and planning over mindless action) that we can definitely appreciate.

Gallery: Beneath the Waves

SwitchedDive Into the Depths With 'Beneath the Waves' originally appeared on Switched on Mon, 28 Mar 2011 17:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BeneathTheWavesgamesonthegogamingnewsmaintimewasterstopvideo gamesvideogamesMon, 28 Mar 2011 17:40:00 EST<![CDATA['The Journey Home' Revels in the Joys of Nintendo Hard Gaming]]>http://www.switched.com/2011/03/27/the-journey-home-revels-in-the-joys-of-nintendo-hard-gaming/http://www.switched.com/2011/03/27/the-journey-home-revels-in-the-joys-of-nintendo-hard-gaming/http://www.switched.com/2011/03/27/the-journey-home-revels-in-the-joys-of-nintendo-hard-gaming/#comments The Journey Home We've been feeling homesick, with nothing but these games to soothe our longing. Our picks this week will leave you yearning for a mom-cooked meal, or joyously reliving the day you left the nest.

Thank God our daily commute has never, ever been as rough as the one portrayed in 'The Journey Home.' If it were, we'd never leave home in the first place. (Not that we really do anyway. Ah, the joys of freelancing!) This monochrome platformer will remind any old-school gamer of the frustrating NES classics from days gone by. Screens full of projectiles, enemies with random movement patterns, and a sticky jumping mechanic will inspire harrowing flashbacks of 'Contra' and 'Ninja Gaiden.' It's a delightful reminder of "Nintendo Hard" difficulty that will leave newer gamers with severe PTSD, and give hardened veterans a great reason to launch into a long-winded diatribe about how easy the kids have it today.

Gallery: The Journey Home

Switched'The Journey Home' Revels in the Joys of Nintendo Hard Gaming originally appeared on Switched on Sun, 27 Mar 2011 15:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gamesonthegogamingnewsmainTheJourneyHometimewasterstopvideogamesSun, 27 Mar 2011 15:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Voice-Controlled Game 'Pah!' Guarantees You'll Be the Most Obnoxious Subway Rider]]>http://www.switched.com/2011/03/27/voice-controlled-iphone-game-pah/http://www.switched.com/2011/03/27/voice-controlled-iphone-game-pah/http://www.switched.com/2011/03/27/voice-controlled-iphone-game-pah/#comments
Aahhhh. Pah! Pah! Aaahhhh. What's that you ask? Oh, nothing -- just the dulcet tones of the most annoying video game ever created. A tall claim, what with all the Zynga choices out there, but we really do think this one's got it in the bag. This Lucky7 Labs iPhone game is voice-controlled; "aah" moves the ship, while "pah!" fires away. Multiply that by an entire subway car full of players, and you may as well abandon all hope. The developers claim on the Apple App Store: "Extreme stomach aches due to laughter may be experienced during the play of this game." Or due to being punched in the gut by your pissed-off neighbor. Either way, good times had by all!

SwitchedVoice-Controlled Game 'Pah!' Guarantees You'll Be the Most Obnoxious Subway Rider originally appeared on Switched on Sun, 27 Mar 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>annoyingappsAppStoregamingiphoneLucky7obnoxioustopVideoGamesSun, 27 Mar 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Classic Arcade Deaths Compiled in Amazing Video]]>http://www.switched.com/2011/03/26/classic-arcade-deaths-compiled-in-amazing-video/http://www.switched.com/2011/03/26/classic-arcade-deaths-compiled-in-amazing-video/http://www.switched.com/2011/03/26/classic-arcade-deaths-compiled-in-amazing-video/#comments

There isn't much to say about this clip from BoingBoing. It's simply a compilation of classic death animations from timeless games like 'PacMan,' 'Robocop,' 'Joust,' and 'Mortal Kombat.' All of that senseless violence is then overlaid with a chiptune rendition of Tears for Fears' 'Mad World.' Perfect.

SwitchedClassic Arcade Deaths Compiled in Amazing Video originally appeared on Switched on Sat, 26 Mar 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>deathgamingjoustmortal kombatMortalKombatpacmanrobocoptopwebSat, 26 Mar 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA['Get Home' Merges Music, Gaming, and a Message]]>http://www.switched.com/2011/03/25/get-home-merges-music-gaming-and-a-message/http://www.switched.com/2011/03/25/get-home-merges-music-gaming-and-a-message/http://www.switched.com/2011/03/25/get-home-merges-music-gaming-and-a-message/#comments Get Home We've been feeling homesick, with nothing but these games to soothe our longing. Our picks this week will leave you yearning for a mom-cooked meal, or joyously reliving the day you left the nest.

'Get Home' is an ingenious bit of marketing, made in conjunction with the song 'Weathervanes and Chemicals' by the band 'Team Me.' While the game fits the song's lyrics more aptly than its indie pop tone, it's still a fairly successful attempt at merging music and gaming. Its platforming is serviceable (although marred by a poorly scrolling camera), but the game is most successful in its anti-drug message. It's rare to find a game that delivers a "message" without coming across as heavy-handed or yawn-inducing, but 'Get Home' does so quite well, feeling less like an after school special and more like an honest portrayal of drug abuse.

Gallery: Get Home

Switched'Get Home' Merges Music, Gaming, and a Message originally appeared on Switched on Fri, 25 Mar 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gamesonthegogamingget homeGetHomenewsmaintimewasterstopvideo gamesvideogamesFri, 25 Mar 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo 3DS: Not a Gaming Revolution, Still Makes Hands Happy]]>http://www.switched.com/2011/03/25/nintendo-3ds-hands-on/http://www.switched.com/2011/03/25/nintendo-3ds-hands-on/http://www.switched.com/2011/03/25/nintendo-3ds-hands-on/#comments Nintendo 3DS The best way for me to start off my hands-on with the Nintendo 3DS is to be completely honest about my relationship with the Nintendo DS; I love the little split-screened device. I have a white Lite from 2007, and have never found the need to upgrade. That was until the E3 Expo last year, when Nintendo trotted out these little guys to a crowd practically electrified with excitement. But the 3-D hype, unless we are missing something, has failed to move past "hype" to "trend." Even the 3DS's initial promise as being the little device that could (without glasses) has been slapped with health warnings, and is not as cost-friendly as its Lite little bro. So, to be frank, I had high expectations, and the 3DS had quite a task ahead of itself.

Continue reading Nintendo 3DS: Not a Gaming Revolution, Still Makes Hands Happy

SwitchedNintendo 3DS: Not a Gaming Revolution, Still Makes Hands Happy originally appeared on Switched on Fri, 25 Mar 2011 14:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsaqua blueAquaBluecosmo blackCosmoBlackfeaturesgaminghands-onhandsonmiinintendonintendo 3dsNintendo3dsNintendogsreviewsvideo gamingvideogamesVideoGamingFri, 25 Mar 2011 14:50:00 EST<![CDATA[TriForce Won't Let the Police Stand Between Him and a New 3DS]]>http://www.switched.com/2011/03/25/isaiah-triforce-johnson-nintendo-3ds-line/http://www.switched.com/2011/03/25/isaiah-triforce-johnson-nintendo-3ds-line/http://www.switched.com/2011/03/25/isaiah-triforce-johnson-nintendo-3ds-line/#comments

Isaiah 'TriForce' Johnson recently ran into some trouble with New York City police, who didn't much care for the way he was standing outside a local Best Buy. Little did they know, though, that TriForce was just lining up to get his hands on the new Nintendo 3DS, which launches on Sunday. Then again, the cops probably had no way of knowing that, since TriForce was the only person in line. He and his Power Glove have been there since Tuesday. He will not be stopped.

SwitchedTriForce Won't Let the Police Stand Between Him and a New 3DS originally appeared on Switched on Fri, 25 Mar 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gaminglaunchlinenew yorkNewYorknintendo 3dsNintendo3dspolicetoptriforceVideoGamesFri, 25 Mar 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Retro Handheld Games Lovingly Recreated for the Web]]>http://www.switched.com/2011/03/24/pica-pic-recreates-classic-tiger-handhelds/http://www.switched.com/2011/03/24/pica-pic-recreates-classic-tiger-handhelds/http://www.switched.com/2011/03/24/pica-pic-recreates-classic-tiger-handhelds/#comments game & watch In the time before Game Boy, handheld gaming consisted of primitive "animations" on alarm-clock-like LCDs. The glory days of Game & Watch and Tiger handhelds are long gone, but now you can head over to Pica-Pic.com and enjoy their simple fun without having to raid eBay. Every tinny sound and unresponsive control is recreated with a stunning level of accuracy. Go now, and make sure to hit up the 'Bartman' game. It's a classic.

SwitchedRetro Handheld Games Lovingly Recreated for the Web originally appeared on Switched on Thu, 24 Mar 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>GameAndWatchGameWatchgamingnostalgiaPicaPicretrotigerTigerHandheldstopVideoGamesThu, 24 Mar 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Knock Coins Out of a Real Block With This Mario-Inspired DIY Project]]>http://www.switched.com/2011/03/24/diy-mario-block-knocks-out-coins/http://www.switched.com/2011/03/24/diy-mario-block-knocks-out-coins/http://www.switched.com/2011/03/24/diy-mario-block-knocks-out-coins/#comments
We know that you've always wanted your own 'Super Mario Bros.'-style block to smash open for golden coinage. In fact, we know you regularly dream about it. No? Just us? Well, after seeing it in action above, you'll probably change your tune. Sadly, you can't buy it. But, if you're handy enough, you can build your own by following the not-for-beginners Instructable here.

SwitchedKnock Coins Out of a Real Block With This Mario-Inspired DIY Project originally appeared on Switched on Thu, 24 Mar 2011 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>diygamingSuperMarioSuperMarioBrostopThu, 24 Mar 2011 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA['N?na, Ha?e F?aith,' an Unreadable But Extremely Playable Platformer]]>http://www.switched.com/2011/03/23/n-na-ha-e-f-aith-an-unreadable-but-extremely-playable-platfo/http://www.switched.com/2011/03/23/n-na-ha-e-f-aith-an-unreadable-but-extremely-playable-platfo/http://www.switched.com/2011/03/23/n-na-ha-e-f-aith-an-unreadable-but-extremely-playable-platfo/#comments N?na, Ha?e F?aith We've been feeling homesick, with nothing but these games to soothe our longing. Our picks this week will leave you yearning for a mom-cooked meal, or joyously reliving the day you left the nest.

While its title may be unpronounceable, 'N?na, Ha?e F?aith' combines its protagonist's world-shifting abilities with nigh incomprehensible language to create an appropriately alien setting for a story about returning home. By closing her eyes, N?na can shift between a light world and a dark one, each of which will grant her unique powers and allow her to circumvent the many obstacles in her way, from skeletal fiends to unreachable keys. It's a solidly constructed, cute and surreal platformer that's worth playing through, if only to make sure N?na gets home safely.

Gallery: Nina Have Faith

Switched'N?na, Ha?e F?aith,' an Unreadable But Extremely Playable Platformer originally appeared on Switched on Wed, 23 Mar 2011 17:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gamesonthegogamingHaeFaithnewsmainNnatimewasterstopvideogamesWed, 23 Mar 2011 17:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Facebook Game Offers Free Trip to Ireland for Best Virtual Roof-Thatchers]]>http://www.switched.com/2011/03/23/ireland-town-brings-farmville-model-to-tourism/http://www.switched.com/2011/03/23/ireland-town-brings-farmville-model-to-tourism/http://www.switched.com/2011/03/23/ireland-town-brings-farmville-model-to-tourism/#comments 'ireland town' In the same way that 'Mafia Wars' has drawn attention to Jersey, and 'FarmVille' has drawn attention to... uh... Iowa (or something), Zynga's newest Facebook gaming sensation 'Ireland Town' is advertising the Emerald Isle to Facebook users enthralled by such virtual activities as brewing beer and thatching roofs. Developed by Tourism Ireland, a joint enterprise between Ireland and Northern Ireland, the game offers a free trip to Erin for the best of the thatchers and brewers.

SwitchedFacebook Game Offers Free Trip to Ireland for Best Virtual Roof-Thatchers originally appeared on Switched on Wed, 23 Mar 2011 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>facebookFarmVilleirelandIrelandTownMafiaWarsNorthernIrelandonlinegamingsocialnetworkingtopwebWed, 23 Mar 2011 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Leaving Home for Adventure in 'Dacey in the Dark - Prelude']]>http://www.switched.com/2011/03/22/dacey-in-the-dark-prelude/http://www.switched.com/2011/03/22/dacey-in-the-dark-prelude/http://www.switched.com/2011/03/22/dacey-in-the-dark-prelude/#comments We've been feeling homesick, with nothing but these games to soothe our longing. Our picks this week will leave you yearning for a mom-cooked meal, or joyously reliving the day you left the nest.

'Dacey in the Dark - Prelude' is a short, melancholy adventure game for PC about growing up and leaving home, with a few fantastical elements thrown into the mix. A dark, purple-hued atmosphere colors the game world, giving it an otherworldly quality that meshes well with its (perhaps overtly) melodramatic premise. While the keyboard-driven UI takes a little while to get used to, the sadly abrupt ending leaves you wishing the story continued.

Gallery: Dacey in the Dark

SwitchedLeaving Home for Adventure in 'Dacey in the Dark - Prelude' originally appeared on Switched on Tue, 22 Mar 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DaceyInTheDarkgamesonthegogamingnewsmaintimewasterstopvideogamesTue, 22 Mar 2011 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Gaming Relaxation With 'Fallen From the Moon']]>http://www.switched.com/2011/03/21/fallen-from-the-moon/http://www.switched.com/2011/03/21/fallen-from-the-moon/http://www.switched.com/2011/03/21/fallen-from-the-moon/#comments
We've been feeling homesick, with nothing but these games to soothe our longing. Our picks this week will leave you yearning for a mom-cooked meal, or joyously reliving the day you left the nest.

While it may not be much of a challenge, the adorable 'Fallen From The Moon' is kind of like the gaming equivalent of a lazy Sunday spent lounging in a hammock. As you help a blocky moon man return to his lunar home, you'll be absorbed in the whimsical graphics and stress-free gameplay. A perfect diversion if you're looking for a change of pace from more intensive gaming fare, 'Fallen' is about as relaxing as you can get.

Gallery: Fallen From the Moon

SwitchedGaming Relaxation With 'Fallen From the Moon' originally appeared on Switched on Mon, 21 Mar 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>flashgamesgamesonthegogamingnewsmaintimewasterstopvideogamesMon, 21 Mar 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[British Hacker Gets Two Years for Laundering Zynga Credits]]>http://www.switched.com/2011/03/21/ashley-mitchell-jailed-stealing-7m-from-zynga/http://www.switched.com/2011/03/21/ashley-mitchell-jailed-stealing-7m-from-zynga/http://www.switched.com/2011/03/21/ashley-mitchell-jailed-stealing-7m-from-zynga/#commentsEarlier today, a British hacker was sentenced to two years in prison for five counts of hacking and theft. Ashley Mitchell, 29, hacked into Zynga (the game giant behind 'FarmVille' and 'Texas HoldEm Poker'), stole more than $11 million in credits, and laundered a third of them through Facebook.

There are some potentially interesting ramifications to this case. The court ignored the defense's argument that, because Zynga can produce limitless chips, the theft couldn't be assigned a specific dollar amount. Lawyers had argued for leniency, noting that Mitchell was addicted to online games, and was gambling upwards of $1,500 per day when he committed the theft in 2009. Sort of like wearing a name tag to a bank heist, Mitchell was identified because he was logged into his own Facebook profile during one of the attacks.

SwitchedBritish Hacker Gets Two Years for Laundering Zynga Credits originally appeared on Switched on Mon, 21 Mar 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>addictionbritaincrimeenglandfacebookfarmvillegamblinggaminginternetsecuritytopwebzygnaMon, 21 Mar 2011 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[FPS Junkies Looking for a Fix Need to Look No Further Than 'BeGone']]>http://www.switched.com/2011/03/18/begone-perfect-for-fps-junkies/http://www.switched.com/2011/03/18/begone-perfect-for-fps-junkies/http://www.switched.com/2011/03/18/begone-perfect-for-fps-junkies/#comments BeGone Some say that the only certainties in the world are death and taxes, but if anyone's made a compelling game about the latter, well, we want to play it. Death, on the other hand, is everywhere in games. This week, we'll take a look at a few games about The End, from the poignant to the hilarious. And no zombie games, we promise.

'BeGone,' a Unity-powered first person shooter, provides deathmatch action for up to 12 players at a time, making it perfect for quick bouts of machine-gun-assisted anger management. While it won't put any console FPS to shame, it does look fantastic (although your mileage may vary when it comes to performance). We had to turn down the graphics resolution to get a non-choppy experience, and even then we still had trouble getting any headshots. Oh, and a word to the wise: Don't even think about playing it without a mouse, unless you enjoy the shame of being sniped 20 seconds into a round.

Gallery: BeGone

SwitchedFPS Junkies Looking for a Fix Need to Look No Further Than 'BeGone' originally appeared on Switched on Fri, 18 Mar 2011 18:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BeGonegamesonthegogamingnewsmaintimewasterstopunityunity playerUnityPlayervideogameswebFri, 18 Mar 2011 18:25:00 EST<![CDATA[13th Century Platformer 'L'Abbaye des Morts' is as Retro as You Can Get]]>http://www.switched.com/2011/03/17/l-abbaye-des-morts-13th-century-platformer/http://www.switched.com/2011/03/17/l-abbaye-des-morts-13th-century-platformer/http://www.switched.com/2011/03/17/l-abbaye-des-morts-13th-century-platformer/#comments L'abbaye des morts Some say that the only certainties in the world are death and taxes, but if anyone's made a compelling game about the latter, well, we want to play it. Death, on the other hand, is everywhere in games. This week, we'll take a look at a few games about The End, from the poignant to the hilarious. And no zombie games, we promise.

'L'Abbaye des Morts' is a creepy platformer that uses both 13th century history and retro graphics to playfully explore a decidedly grim period in history. You play a Cathar monk who, in an attempt to escape persecution, ventures into a mysterious church to evade his pursuers. Of course, the church hides deadly secrets, which can be unraveled by uncovering scrolls. As you descend into the hidden recesses beneath the church, you'll have to contend with a horde of diabolical enemies, using only your wits and evasive skills. (Catharism was a non-violent religion.) As with anything designer Locomalito touches, 'L'Abbaye des Morts' is both lovingly retro and flawlessly executed, right down to its fake box art.

'L'Abbaye des Morts' is a free PC download.

Gallery: L'Abbaye des Morts

Continue reading 13th Century Platformer 'L'Abbaye des Morts' is as Retro as You Can Get

Switched13th Century Platformer 'L'Abbaye des Morts' is as Retro as You Can Get originally appeared on Switched on Thu, 17 Mar 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appsgamesonthegogamingLAbbaye des MortsLabbayeDesMortsLocomalitonewsmaintimewasterstopvideogameswindowsThu, 17 Mar 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Robots Now Really Good at Video Games, Humanity in Peril]]>http://www.switched.com/2011/03/17/robots-winning-video-games/http://www.switched.com/2011/03/17/robots-winning-video-games/http://www.switched.com/2011/03/17/robots-winning-video-games/#comments
The robots are already kicking our asses at just about everything, so seeing video games added to that list is not shocking. This 'bot from Adept Technology blazes through the iPhone game '1to50' in a record-setting 6.67 seconds (more than a second less than the fastest human). Check out the videos above and after the break. And keep your chin up -- the robots may be better gamers, but can they love?

Continue reading Robots Now Really Good at Video Games, Humanity in Peril

SwitchedRobots Now Really Good at Video Games, Humanity in Peril originally appeared on Switched on Thu, 17 Mar 2011 14:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1to50gamingrobotstopThu, 17 Mar 2011 14:20:00 EST<![CDATA['House of Dead Ninjas' Mixes Speedy Side-Scrolling and Star Slinging]]>http://www.switched.com/2011/03/16/house-of-dead-ninjas-speedy-side-scrolling-action/http://www.switched.com/2011/03/16/house-of-dead-ninjas-speedy-side-scrolling-action/http://www.switched.com/2011/03/16/house-of-dead-ninjas-speedy-side-scrolling-action/#comments Some say that the only certainties in the world are death and taxes, but if anyone's made a compelling game about the latter, well, we want to play it. Death, on the other hand, is everywhere in games. This week, we'll take a look at a few games about The End, from the poignant to the hilarious. And no zombie games, we promise.

We've come to expect impressive things from Adult Swim's roster of games, and 'House of Dead Ninjas' is no exception. It delivers the goods with an addictive blend of speedy platforming and pixelated ninja combat. The game is all about breakneck side-scrolling action, as you descend deeper and deeper into the titular house (of dead ninjas), using a variety of deadly ninja weaponry to dispatch the foes that cross your path. For fans of classic Asian action cinema (and grotesquely profuse arterial spray), 'House of Dead Ninjas' is your game.

Gallery: House of Dead Ninjas

Switched'House of Dead Ninjas' Mixes Speedy Side-Scrolling and Star Slinging originally appeared on Switched on Wed, 16 Mar 2011 18:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>flashgamesgamesonthegogamingHouse of Dead NinjasHouseOfDeadNinjasnewsmaintimewasterstopvideogamesWed, 16 Mar 2011 18:35:00 EST