Sony DVD - Remote control - infrared Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This remote control converts a Play Station 2 console into a full-featured DVD player.It does this in two ways.First, it improves upon the existing PS2 DVD Player software.For my unit, the version of DVD player jumped from 1.30U to 2.10U.Second, it provides a wireless remote control with every function you could want plus a few.
The package ships with an instruction manual, the DVD Player 2.1 disk, two AAA batteries, a small stub IR receiver.The first disappointment is that the receiver is NOT a passthrough.Fortunately, it is designed to fit the second controller slot.Swapping the stub for a controller is only an issue then for two player games.
The remote control has some other disappointments.The DVD Player 2.1 software, essentially a firmware update, installs on a memory card and consumes a lot of real estate in the process.It only works with memory slot 1 and the entire copy takes 2.2MB, a quarter of the card's capacity.In an era where the most basic computer devices are all 'flashable,' it's a mystery why Sony didn't keep a more careful eye on future revisions.After all, I have flashed my computer motherboard, DVD player, and home network equipment with firmware updates.All of these devices carried some fashion EPROM (electronically programmable memory).And they all sold for less than a Sony Playstation, so it's hard to blame this short sitedness on cost.It's a mystery why Sony didn't forsee a similar eprom need in their console (read poor planning).Instead of flashing an internal chip then, Sony forces us to copy a new copy to a memory card, making the existing ROM so much silicon gathering dust.The DVD Player 2.1 software can be manipulated just like any other saved game.You can delete and copy it back at will.The remote will work without it too, although without the software to support it most buttons won't work as advertised.
Luckily, the improvements are significant and probably offset the disappointments enough to make this a good purchase.The new remote control and player software are feature rich adding many needed improvements to the DVD playback on the PS2.The most anticipated difference for me was the multi-speed scan.With the new player, it is now possible to scan through a DVD at 2x 4x and 8x speeds.The next best feature is an actual time clock, showing chapter progress time, remaining time, feature progress time and remaining time.The original player only showed chapter stops.Sonylayed out the DVD remote buttons in a logical and clear fashion.It includes every button you could want in a decent arrangement.Even chapter selection is there.The remote is a hybrid, including all of the shock controller buttons with the exception of only the analog sticks.It's nice - it rivals any other DVD remote.I read one review that said you could control power with this remote.This is not true.There is no labeled on/off button nor does the manual mention it. Other esoteric features are repeat (is this for a video store?) and shuffle (?), which are questionable even for concert DVDs.Maybe someone out there can find purpose to them.
I've never had any trouble with DVD playback having successfully watched dozens of titles on the PS2 now.Other people have complained about incompatible DVDs in the past.The new player software may address these issues.Sony claims this unit is compatible with any disk stamped with the DVD logo.I'm guessing it's a region 1 player and not region free, although I can't verify this for sure.I'm sure a hack is on its way if not already available.
Overall, it's a good purchase.The $20 ranks it among the cheapest accessories.It does it's job very well and transforms the console into a decent DVD player.But the real complaint, the one that ranks it at four stars, is that Sony didn't get it right the first time.Perhaps they underestimated the demand for DVD playback.I'm convinced it won't be long before some electronics genius burns the player to a ROM and sells it as a 'mod chip.'Until then, Sony is the only act in town that can provide these improvements.Actually, there's probably a way to distribute the new player via a Game Shark.Legality is at stake of course.
Bottom line: if a remote is a must have, this is the only one to consider.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Sony DVD - Remote control - infrared

Product Description:
Play your favorite movies without any wires or other hassles! Modeled to match the sleek design of the PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system, the DVD Remote has all the features of a standard controller plus enhanced DVD capabilities.Discover even more DVD features with an updated version of the PlayStation 2 DVD driver for use with the DVD Remote Control - Slow Motion, Chapter Program, A=B Repeat, Shuffle, Repeat, and Three-Speed Scan are all accessible at the push of a button, as are all of the basic PlayStation 2 DVD functions such as Audio Track selection, Subtitle display, and Multi-Angle options.Two new buttons, the "Open/Close" button (opens and closes the disk tray from the remote) and the "Reset" button (duplicates the function of the Reset button located on the front of the PlayStation 2 console).Label text for the "Title" and "DVD Menu" buttons on the old remote has been changed to "Top Menu" and "Menu" respectively on the new remote. Functionality of these buttons remains unchanged.The new DVD remote will not be compatible with PlayStation 2 consoles having model numbers beginning with SCPH-30xxx, SCPH-35xxx, or SCPH-39xxx unless you already have an IR receiver (SCPH-10160). For PlayStation 2 console model numbers SCPH-30001 and SCPH-35001, you will need a copy of the DVD remote control software disc and a Memory Card (8MB) (for PlayStation 2).

Want to read more honest consumer review about Sony DVD - Remote control - infrared now ?

Kingdom Under Fire The Crusaders Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I bought Kingdom Under Fire/Crusaders on October 13, 2004.Overall, I found this game very fun, and very INTENSE.Below is a list of what I didn't enjoy, and what I did enjoy regarding the game.

Negatives:

1. The game needs a bird's eye view without the map.There are four views all together, two on a map (long/close-up), two in melee(mid/close-up).The game would be better if they had a third viewpoint where you could pull back the camera one step further without opening the map to see other units and manipulate them around the screen.This view could look something like a Warcraft/Command and Conquer View.The map does this to some extent, but it can become tedious manipulating the troops on the map on close-up mode. Another option would be the ability to split screens by units, so you could see what more than one of the military units is doing @ once.

2. The voices are pretty cheesy. In the future, phantagram should invest a little bit more in getting better voice actors who don't
sound embarassed to read their lines*
*This could also be viewed positively though

3.The game is lacking a bit in terms of varied gameplay. In the future, it would be ideal if we could customize our own characters, as opposed to choosing one of four templates.Additionally, it would be nice if there could be co-op modes - like in lord of the rings - return of the king or head to head modes outside of xbox live.

Positives:

1.Graphics - This game has amazing graphics that take full advantage of the XBox Platform.

2.The cheesy voices - People who take wars between fictional medieval soldiers and orcs and dark elves too seriously need to get a life.This video game has somewhat of a kill bill/B-movie quality to it, in that there are excessive amounts of blood and gore, bad language, and dark elf females fighting in thongs.The terrible voiceovers are a finishing touch to this sort of craziness.*
*This could also be viewed as a negative

3.Challenging gameplay - This is not the sort of video game which you can start and play the whole way through without ever losing. What I enjoy about it is that as your units/characters get better, you also get better as a video gamer.For example, a newbie couldn't just take your saved game from let's say the 20th mission, and just play as him. He'd die immediately b/c the missions get progressively harder with time, and in order to proceed to further missions, one needs to become a better video gamer.

4.Intense and complex battle sequences/combat.Fighting Melee Combat - Dynasty Warriors/LOTR style, while commanding your units - Command and Conquer/Warcraft style, while taking into account unconventional things such as terrain, sun, weather conditions, etc. all require extreme concentration.To the observer though, your battles will have the same sort of chaos/intensity as the battle scenes in Braveheart, especially as you shift from view to view.It's extremely satisfying to fight hand-to-hand combat with your character against an enemy and to see people dropping to the ground because of your archers, while your cavalry comes from behind and flanks them.That's only an example of three of the many units that you can fight with.This game reinvents the real-time strategy genre, taking elements from Dynasty Warriors, LOTR video game series, Myth, Warcraft, and Command and Conquer, by molding them all into one video game and taking the genre to the next level.This game's very ambitious and it works.

Although the game does have it's flaws, I do not feel that they are overly significant or that they detract too much from the game itself. One can accustom oneself to fighting using the map within a relatively short time, and even though you cannot customize your characters or go coop there are still 4 characters with over 60 missions.

On a scale of 100, I would give the game a 96.Even though it misses a few minute things, it gets the major and main things right.This game has the potential to bring real-time strategy (usually associated with PCs up to this point) to the video game console in the same way that Goldeneye brought first person shooters to the video game console.

I feel that this game will beocme a sleeper hit, and that they will make a really awesome sequel which corrects all of the minor flaws in this version if they take into account people's suggestions.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Kingdom Under Fire The Crusaders

Product Description:
Kingdom Under Fire: The Crusaders challenges you to lead a massive army in pursuit of the ultimate power. Experience chaotic medieval battle on epic scale, as you command hundreds of warriors all risking their lives for final victory. Fifty years have passed since the Second Great War of Heroes -- in that time, a powerful artifact called the Ancient Heart disappeared. In the town where it was last seen, orcs have invaded, leading to a new war, with new goals and objectives... And new choices for glory. Dynamic game direction make you feel like you're watching an epic film -Multiple camera angles, real soldiers' expressions of pain, victory and defeat, and much moreReal-time ranking update system New Mission Downloads possible through Xbox Live

Want to read more honest consumer review about Kingdom Under Fire The Crusaders now ?

Xbox 360 HD DVD Player Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I've been using this Xbox HD-DVD player for almost a month now and so far it works just great. I actually had no plans to buy either Blu-Ray or HD-DVD until one of those losers became a dominate player. Unfortunately it doesn't look like that's going to happen any time soon. And for $200, I couldn't pass it up since I already had an Xbox. And I couldn't bring myself to keep buying low-def regular DVD's with these awesome HD DVD's out there. AND, the HD DVD combo discs still have regular DVD content for normal DVD players in other rooms in the house.

Out of the box, this drive is extremely easy to setup. Just pop in the setup CD, plug it in, and you're ready to go. There is a separate power cord as well. The included remote is nice, but I'll stick with my Harmony 880. It's able to control all the basic functions of the player. The player is also unable take advantage of the improved audio quality of HD-DVD, so you just get the normal "good" audio quality you had with previous DVD's. Which isn't bad, but still somewhat disappointing. Otherwise, all the menu's work nicely, the player starts up fairly quick, and the picture quality is awesome - for component video at least.

Component is probably the biggest negative I can think of - and that's really due to the Xbox 360's fault, not the player itself. If you think HD DVD looks good on your xbox component connection in 1080i, just wait until you see it via your HDMI port in 1080i or even 1080p (if your TV accept 1080p and is big enough to take advantage of such a high res). Unfortunately, there is no word of HDMI for the xbox. So you only get 1080i via the Component connection. To get 1080p, you need the VGA cable, which has a somewhat better picture.

So I bought the VGA cable. The picture does look a little better on my 61' Samsung HL-S6187W since it's also at 1080p, but there is a 1-3" border around the screen, and the image is tilted. Samsung had no idea how to fix it. But I suspected that might happen since a TV with a VGA port is still a TV, not a PC Monitor. Your results will of course vary depending on your model TV.

The VGA port limitations aren't that big of a deal. If you REALLY want 1080p, you just need HDMI - period. I'll live with 1080i via Component for now until the 1080p players come down in price. In the meantime, at least I've got some awesome looking HD movies to watch on my new TV!

Pros:
* Cheapest HD-DVD solution if you have an XBox 360
* Easy to setup
* Accepts IR from your universal remote via the Xbox
* Great picture quality
* Includes Microsoft Remote and free King-Kong HD-DVD
* UPDATE: HDMI Output (with Xbox 360 Elite Only)

Cons:
* Only outputs 1080i via Component (VGA required for 1080p)
* VGA output has limitations, both due to Xbox and/or your TV
* Can't take advantage of HD-DVD improved audio quality formats

Bottom line, if you have an Xbox 360, and have a HD TV, you've gotta pick one of these up. You just can't go wrong for a $200 entry-level HD player!

*** ELITE/HDMI UPDATE ***

Just purchased the Xbox 360 Elite w/ HDMI. This HD DVD player is even more awesome than before. We just watched the entire Matrix Trilogy in HD DVD in 1080p on the 61" Samsung DLP - and it looked awesome. When compared to component, the HDMI picture is much more crisp, detailed, and even better black levels. Definately recommended!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Xbox 360 HD DVD Player

Product Description:
You've experienced next-gen gaming on Xbox 360™ ... now experience next-gen DVD movies with HD DVD. The Xbox 360 HD DVD Player is the most affordable way to jump into the next generation of DVD technology, along with the flexibility to enter when you are ready. Just plug Xbox 360 HD DVD Player into Xbox 360 and enjoy the ultimate home theater experience with more clarity and detail than broadcast, cable or satellite HD. Feed your HDTV the high definition content it craves with HD DVD on Xbox 360!Includes the movie King Kong on HD-DVD.Xbox 360 HD-DVD requires a Xbox 360 game console.This is not a stand-alone HD-DVD player.

Want to read more honest consumer review about Xbox 360 HD DVD Player now ?

Discovery Channel : PLANET EARTH "Pole To Pole, Mountains, & Ocean" DVD Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Everybody should have one. I loved this . Lot of exciting things about nature .

Click Here to see more reviews about: Discovery Channel : PLANET EARTH Pole To Pole, Mountains, and Ocean DVD

Product Description:
More than five years in the making, Planet Earth redefines blue-chip natural history filmmaking and continues the Discovery Channel mission to provide the highest quality programming in the world. Award-winning actress and conservationist Sigourney Weaver narrates this engaging series featuring never-before-seen footage and unprecedented high-definition production techniques. Plus, as a bonus, get a behind-the-scenes look at the making of each incredible episode.Pole to PoleFollow the sun as it touches the lives of creatures across the planet, bringing a fresh understanding of how the world is interconnected. From African herds migrating hundreds of miles in search of water to desperate animal hunts, Pole to Pole examines how the seasons produce the greatest spectacles on Earth.MountainsTour the planet's mightiest mountain ranges and meet the rare animals that inhabit them. From a never-before-seen hunt by snow leopards on the treacherous slopes of the Himalayas to a family of pumas struggling to survive the unstable weather of the Andes, Mountains reveals life on the planet's highest peaks.Deep OceanExplore the depths of the planet's oceans and discover some of this mysterious world's most spectacular species. From light shows performed by squids to the blue whale, the largest animal to ever exist, Deep Ocean investigates the waters that cover two thirds of the Earth's surface yet remain largely unknown.

Want to read more honest consumer review about Discovery Channel : PLANET EARTH Pole To Pole, Mountains, and Ocean DVD now ?

Hitman Blood Money Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Although this is my first game in the Hitman series, I absolutely love stealth games like the Splinter Cell series. I have completed Hitman: Blood Money at all levels of difficulty and earned every Xbox 360 Achievement in the game.

If you're looking for a fun, vast and playable game, just stop right now and purchase Hitman: Blood Money. The game is so incredible in the amount of variety it offers (both in unique and interesting levels, as well as new and exciting ways to take people out) it could have almost been split up into two titles and still be worth the price. I don't want to provide any level-specific spoilers at all, but let me just say if you completely finish this game without finding one level you absolutely loved, you simply don't like this entire genre of gaming!

Although this game has absolutely no multiplayer component, I could easily see a group of people gathered around the TV with pizza and beer as you take turns trying to accomplish the best or wildest "hit."

The controls in this game are sometimes difficult. Overall, you spend most of your time picking a weapon, then using it. However, when you have to make accident kills, specifically throwing someone over the side of a building, boat railing or cliff, you'll find that it doesn't always work. This is particularly true at the higher levels, where making these accidents happen is essential for earning the coveted "Silent Assassin" rating.

Speaking of which -and mostly specific to the Xbox 360 version- the achievements for this game are somewhat ambiguous. One example is that the requirements for earning a Silent Assassin rating on the "Pro" level is different than earning it on the lower difficulty levels, but you're never informed of the differences, or how to achieve it in the first place. Likewise, the "Special Rating" achievement is only really possible to earn by accident, or after researching how to do so on the game forums. All of this is troubling, since the point of the game is to become the ultimate hitman. And when they won't tell you how to do so, you'll feel a little cheated.

Obviously, there are some adult themes in this game. In addition to the gratuitous (but fun!) violence, there are also numerous sexual scenarios. There isn't a lot of foul language (at least that I noticed, but I'm also pretty liberal on that), but parents should certainly review this title closely before purchasing it for a minor.

All said, this game easily earns a 5-star rating for the replayability, level design and massive options for interesting deaths. The only problems with this game (which lowered my "overall rating" by one star) are the sometimes troubling controls and the lack of information on how to "do your best" as a hitman. However, the casual gamer won't care about these inadequacies and the hardcore gamers will find ways around them. After all, an adaptable hitman is a good hitman!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Hitman Blood Money

Product Description:
Hitman: Blood Money brings back the world's greatest assassin, Agent 47. A series of hits have eliminated a number of assassins from the ICA, Agent 47's contract killing firm. Sensing that he may be the next target, he travels to America where he attempts to carry on with business as usual. That means killing -- a lot of it. New to the world of getting paid for killing? Prepare to become a hitman with an all-new training modePathfinder engine provides improved tracking and movement with realistic enemy behavior and interaction Soundtrack by BAFTA-winning composer Jesper Kyd

Want to read more honest consumer review about Hitman Blood Money now ?

Lord of the Rings: Battle for Middle Earth 2 Collector's Edition Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)As a big fan of real-time strategy (RTS) games, I found this game to be a bit more than the average base-building, resource-collecting fare. To be sure, there is a lot of this kind of activity required in the game, but it is presented in a way that does not seem bland or too conventional. The game does not break a lot of new ground for the genre like, say, Dawn of War or Rise of Nations, but it does offer an interesting spin.

Gameplay: There are a few options here that should keep most players preoccupied for a while. First, there is the campaign mode that allows for play as either the good or evil side. Each of the campaigns have eight scenarios which for the most part are your standard base-building, land-conquering variety. Overall, the missions are well done and are a great introduction to the other gameplay options. Another gameplay mode is the War of the Ring. This is a mix of turn-based and real-time gaming in which factions try to take over a map of Middle Earth by moving armies around. It is a very well-done gaming mode that should allow for a lot of replayability. Thirdly, there is a skirmish mode as well as online play. The game comes with several maps, but unfortunately there is an overabundance of 2-player maps and a shortage of larger maps (only one 8-player map).

Each of the six playable races (men, elves, dwarves, Mordor, Isengard, and goblins) feels unique enough to offer a range of gameplay options. Each has several units, many upgrades, unique powers, various heroes, and other perks. Also, the game ships with a "create-a-hero" template that allows you to create your own in-game hero. This options, while a good idea, is rather limited in regard to the appearance of your hero. Heroes are better implemented in this game than in other RTS games (like Warcraft 3) and can level up without having to hunt down "creeps" or perform other distracting tasks. I assume that a future patch will adjust some of the heroes so that they are better balanced against each other.

The gameplay itself is very frenetic and engaging, and on medium and higher difficulties, the fighting starts early. The game's AI is generally good and will make it a point to destroy your buildings at every opportunity, along with your units. Occasionally, I've witnessed a few lapses with the AI, such as cases in which enemy units were not immediately noticed and attacked. Otherwise, the AI holds its own in most fights.I've only noticed a few flaws in the game, but they are worth commenting upon. First, buildings and walls are far too weak and easily destroyed. Since games are won or lost based on your resource and unit output, it's a shame that a few infantry units can destroy an upgraded fortress in seconds. Of course, lesser structures like farms go down even quicker. Also, the game is not really geared toward epic siege warfare, which was one of the great things about the movies. Walls are not only weak but they are far to expensive to be practical and are difficult (perhaps impossible?) to repair. Additionally, the resource model encourages you to spread your farms apart for maximum benefit, so there is little possibility of having a compact, well-fortified, walled-in base. A patch could correct much of this (such as the strength and cost of buildings and walls), which would allow for more strategic and tactical possibilities such as siege warfare (requiring actual siege weapons) and turtling. There is naval warfare in the game, which is generally done well. However, very few maps allow it.

Graphics: This is a great-looking game. Lots of attention to detail in the environment as well as in the models. Unit animations, explosions, magical effects, weather, and other visuals are very convincing. The cutscenes for the campaigns are based on the game models and some wonderful paintings. The animations are not quite as dramatic and visceral as those of Dawn of War, but they are nonetheless quite good. And there are a lot of them. It never gets old seeing Tom Bombadil punching foes in the face or summoning the terrible wrath of a Balrog. Even common occurrences, such as Roharrim cavalry mowing down infantry, are always good for a smile. The game does require a decent computer to get the most out of the visuals. I have a mid-range machine (P4 3.0ghz, 1GB of RAM, Geforce 6600GT) and still get a bit of lag when there are a lot of units fighting on screen. However, EA went the extra mile on graphics, and it really paid off.

Sound: Everything is in order in this department. There are a lot of spoken sound-bites for each of the races, along with appropriate sounds for monsters, weapons, building construction, explosions, magical effects, and so on. The epic music from the movies plays in the background to set the atmosphere. All of the auditory elements of the game serve their purpose well.

Replayability/Technical Issues: The game should have a decent shelf life for RTS gamers, assuming that EA supports it with patches and an occasional bonus map. A map editor is available for download at the official website (www.bfme2.ea.com). The manual that comes with the game is decent, but the in-game tutorials are better. The game has been pretty stable for me with no installation issues. It did crash twice between turns in the War of the Ring mode. However, this was no big deal since I had been playing for several hours and had recently saved the game.

Overall, if you like RTS games, this is a good purchase. The Collector's Edition comes with a bonus DVD that has vignettes about how the game was made, cutscenes, the soundtrack, and a few other things. Also, this edition includes a few bonus items such as a dragon and extra maps.It's probably worth the extra dollars for anyone who liked the movies.

Overall rating: 4.25 stars

Click Here to see more reviews about: Lord of the Rings: Battle for Middle Earth 2 Collector's Edition

Product Description:

In The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-earth II, the sequel to the critically acclaimed RTS game The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-earth you now have the chance to experience all that Middle-earth was meant to be.Given a new agreement with The Saul Zaentz Company d/b/a Tolkien Enterprises that grants EA the rights to develop games based on the books, in addition to a separate agreement that allows for games based on the New Line Cinema films The Lord of the Rings, The Battle for Middle-earth II will introduce players to depths of the fiction never before explored by EA.With all new content from J.R.R. Tolkien's original fiction, delve deeper than ever before and engage in new battles that go beyond the award-winning movie trilogy. Wage war in the North and assume command of the most storied civilizations in all of Middle-earth history--the Elven and Dwarven armies--or fight on the side of Evil with heroes and creatures that have never been seen in The Lord of the Rings films. Defend or overtake never before seen lands such as Dol Guldur, The Misty Mountains, and Mirkwood as you unleash powerful new weapons and abilities--summon dragons, cause volcanoes to erupt, or bring down a cataclysmic lightning strike.But beware, with greater power comes greater adversity. Your enemies, commanded by a powerful new AI system, possess a greater tactical edge and more powerful spells. Will your armies have the fortitude to persevere? New races, places, heroes, and battles from books & films

Command all the races of Middle-earth with three all new factions including Elves, Dwarves, and Goblins.
Win the war in the North single-player campaign with all-new story that takes you to places and battles of Middle-earth previously unseen.

Customization, Command, & Control

Build your own landmark castle with fully customizable and upgradeable fortresses and walls.
Create your own hero with all new customized RTS units that are your avatars in-game.
Control battles with all-new enemy AI, melee combat, and flanking, adding unprecedented tactical fidelity.

This special Collector's Edition also includes:

Exclusive Bonus DVD in High Definition (HD) Mastered in HD for the ultimate high resolution experience on your PC or HD TV
Entire musical score features original music created exclusively for The Lord of the Rings, The Battle for Middle-earth II
In-game cinematics and trailers in high resolution and surround sound
"The Making of The Battle for Middle-earth II": The story of the team behind The Battle for Middle-earth series including never before seen videos and exclusive interviews with key development team members
"The Art of the Game": The ultimate collection of artwork created for the game, including hundreds of cinematic paintings and key pieces of concept work
Exclusive In-Game Content. All new fire-breathing Dragon on the battlefield, this impressive unit can only be controlled by players who purchase the Collector's Edition
Special graphic treatment for "create-a-hero" units identify Collector's Edition gamers during on-line play
Multiple exclusive maps including signature locations from The Lord of the Rings films, such as Weathertop and Argonath
Two-sided, 11-by-17-inch Exclusive Campaign Map Poster
Gorgeous high resolution map of Middle-earth created exclusively for the game--"Good" side lists out all the campaign locations from the good campaign while the "Evil" side lists out its campaign locations and descriptions
The perfect companion piece while playing the Good or Evil game missions
A rebate coupon for savings on a new NVIDIA graphics card

Want to read more honest consumer review about Lord of the Rings: Battle for Middle Earth 2 Collector's Edition now ?

Unreal Championship 2 The Liandri Conflict Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Unreal Championship 2 - Circa 2005

GOOD:
- Play over Xbox-Live (and has downloadable content)
- Gameplay is very different which makes it not another Halo clone
- Graphics look great (Halo 2/Doom 3 quality)
- Over the top matrix or anime style gameplay
- Unique characters and unique setting
- Lot's of maps and gameplay modes

BAD:
- Not really recommend getting this game if you don't have Xbox-Live or play a lot of system link
- Fast and furious game play maybe too much for some who like slower paced FPS like Rainbow six or Counter Strike
- New gameplay style may be difficult to get use to
- Controls are difficult master
- A.I. can be brutal and unforgiving, especially on higher difficulty
- To unlock most of the characters or bonuses you have to play a lot of the single player levels

IF IT FITS YOUR TASTE:
- Great multiple player game on either Xbox-live or system link, Single player is also great training
- This Unreal takes place in a Sci-fi futuristic Egyptian world sort of like Star Gate or Chronicles of Riddick
- First person or third person camera (switch at any point)
- Gameplay is really over the top even when compared to other games of its type like Unreal 2004 and Quake 3
- All characters not only use guns and rockets (etc) but swords staff's and some even use brute strength

GAME ITS MOST ASSOCATED TOO:
- Jedi Knights Academy 2
- Unreal Championship

ADDITIONAL NOTES:
- You can do Mortal Kombat style Fatalities and Radien (from Mortal Kombat) is an unlockable character

Click Here to see more reviews about: Unreal Championship 2 The Liandri Conflict

Product Description:
Unreal Championship® 2: The Liandri Conflict™ continues the Unreal franchise on the Xbox and introduces an evolutionary new gameplay style to the traditional FPS genre: acrobatic melee combat. This highly anticipated sequel also features new single-player and multiplayer gameplay person camera mode and intense melee abilities. Unreal Championship fans can play as any one of 14 characters from the Unreal universe each with spectacular new Adrenaline Powers that enable new offensive and defensive combos.Format: XBOX Genre:ACTION/ADVENTURE Rating:M - Mature UPC:031719300778 Manufacturer No:30077

Get 15% OFF

Want to read more honest consumer review about Unreal Championship 2 The Liandri Conflict now ?

Elder Scrolls III Morrowind Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Okay, Okay, I'll admit it; I was reconsidering the wisdom of my Xbox purchase.I watched GTA3 (and played it), and shook my head, saying "why not us?"Well hallelujah, we've been saved!
If you've ever played a pen-and-paper RPG, you'll have an inkling about the possibilities in this game.Your character can be whomever, whatever, however you'd like him/her to be.There are four human races alone, as well as a feline race, a reptilian race, orc, and three elven races.There are dozens of character classes, including BattleMage, Assassin, Monk, Rogue, Scout, Barbarian, and Witchhunter, and a bunch more; but the best part is that you can create your OWN custom character class with its own assorted disciplines!There are also a ton of possibilities for the appearance of each gender of each race.
Once your character has been designed and you get out of the Customs Office, you are immersed in a HUGE, complex world of alliances, rivalries, and politics.You can join a number of different organizations and affiliations, make friends or enemies everywhere.
The fighting in this game is cool, easy when you're fighting single little creatures like cave rats, but challenging when you're fighting talented folks in armor while trying to cast spells and read scrolls while hacking, slashing, and blocking. And multiple humanoid enemies in armor will realistically kick your butt, unless you've been around a long time and improved your fighting abilities.
This is perhaps the best thing about this game; your advancement is not based on "XP", some accumulation of wealth and creatures killed.It is realistic; the more you practice something, the better you get at it.If you spend all of your time hacking at creatures in the wilderness, your Strength and Agility attributes and your weapon skill (ShortBlade, Axe, Long Blade, etc.) will benefit, but your Intelligence, & Personality attributes and Mercantile, Speechcraft, Security skills etc. will stay where they are.Also, your advancement in levels is customized to your character class: each class has its own mix of emphasis amongst the skills, declaring some Major, some Minor, and some Miscellaneous.
The graphics in this game are phenomenal (mostly--the faces are somewhat blocky).Trees, hills, items, and rooms look great; weather effects are fantastic.The effect most folks will appreciate, however, is the water.The water in this game looks so darn real that it's almost UNDERwhelming.You look at it and say "well, I've seen that before."The catch is, the place you've seen it before is REAL LIFE!It's amazing, and that BEFORE rain starts to fall.Oh, the sounds are cool, too -- I hope you're not afraid of thunder!
This is defnitely the MOST complex and MOST open-ended game I've ever heard, seen, read about, or played.I don't mean to sound like a job interview, but it's only weakness is that it's SO open-ended.Players will find themselves accepting quest after quest before they finish their first few, and trying to flip through the character's journal to remember who wanted what!Another way this game is like life.
Go get this game, you'll never see the light of day again.lol
Mike
P.S.If you've got the time, spend all of your travelling alternating between swimming/jumping until you get fatigued, then sneaking.Like all of them, the more you use these skills, the better you get at them!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Elder Scrolls III Morrowind

Product Description:
Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind beings the legends and lore of the Elder Scrolls games to your Xbox. As you travel through Tamriel, you'll make your way to Dumner and face the dark elves. Along the way you'll meet allies and enemies, discover ancient secrets and go on amazing quests.

Want to read more honest consumer review about Elder Scrolls III Morrowind now ?

Bridge Baron 16 Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I really enjoy the game very much.You can practice yourself and play online with others if you like.I would highly recommend it.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Bridge Baron 16

Product Description:
Bridge Baron 16 is the latest version of this world-renowned bride simulator. It's a comprehensive, easy-to-use bridge game that represents 42 years of research and development in this popular game. It's the only top-ranked by the ACBL, and the Bridge Baron series has won world computer bridge championships. Enjoythe great features and gameplay that made Bridge Baron a worldwide hit. We have allowed more flexibility in defining your bidding agreements.All 53 octillion (that's 53 billion billion billion) bridge deals as possible random deals in Bridge Baron

Want to read more honest consumer review about Bridge Baron 16 now ?

Dino Master: Dig Discover Duel Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Remeber Qix? You get a big field where you move a little guy to swipe portions of this field while avoiding attacks. You do so until there is a small enough portion of field and then you get rated. Yeah... you remember, this game remembers too which is why they use it as the way you get new fossils.
There's a decent selection of levels to choose form and a multitude of baddies to try to stop you from stealing the field (All giant bugs for some reason) making that portion of the game fun. Just like it was way back when.
The problem arises when you try to use the dino battle system. It can be described as slightly more advanced than rock/paper/scissors. As a matter of fact it's so bad that if you really want to train little dinos for battles I'd pick up Fossil League DS Instead. It has level gains, exploration, and teams of dinos to train and battle.

this is great for the Qix rip-off but leave it there, or at least try it first.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Dino Master: Dig Discover Duel

Product Description:
Dino Master drops you into the role of Dave the Digger on his hunt for the biggest and best dinosaur fossils around the globe. Capturing these fossils won't be easy as you move quickly to surround your dig site while trying to avoid giant insects and other nasties. Once you've excavated your finds, bring them back to the Laboratory to rebuild them and then pit dino against dino in Battle Mode.

Want to read more honest consumer review about Dino Master: Dig Discover Duel now ?

Mortal Kombat: Deadly Alliance Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I rented this game and a few days later bought it. This is nearly a perfect Mortal Kombat game. I had lost interest in MK after it's many sequels and same ol, same ol. A new fighting system, weaponry and multiple fighting styles make this not only a challenge to master but a lot of fun as well. Plenty of Gore and Blood and plenty of moves where you have no choice but to say "that HAD to hurt". You have to love impaling your opponent.
Graphics and sound are top notch and the added Konquest mode and the Krypt add a new level to this game the previous titles didn't have.Konquest mode to unlock Blaze and Mokap can be cruelly frustrating, just TRY and do Raiden's Chain Lightning Branch Style Combo, i've been at it for two days now. They couldn't have made Konquest mode just a "tad" easier. certain characters in Konquest mode are far easier than others.Sometimes i could swear there's a glitch where you do the combo right but the game insists you didn't, and as other times you do it by mashing buttons as fast as you can and it decides to let you have it. The old favorites are back with some great new characters as well. It's a interesting concept mixing a fighting game with Kurrency to unlock hidden characters, arenas and alternate costumes to name a few. I've been playing it non stop since i got it. The only problems i can find with this game are the "cheese" factor of Moloch and certain moves or combinations of moves that a human player wouldn't be able to pull off, but the AI pulls off flawlessly, like blocking and attacking at the same time as well as perfectly timed reversals into a 15 hit Branch Style Combo that goes through all three fighting styles LOL.The rounded directional pad makes some of the moves harder to pull off than on say a playstation controller and that can get annoying at times, hitting down back to perform a "special move" only to jump in the air unintentionaly. The range of difficulty should have been spread out a little more as well, you go from your first fighting being a flawless victory in every round,to your third and fourth giving you a seriously AI sided fight.Staring at the screen going what the heck happened, i guess i blinked. I would have liked to have seen more than ONE fatality per character and maybe even a few arena fatalities as well. Some of the Branch Style Kombos seem next to impossible to pull off and having to do them to beat Konquest mode to unlock even more characters is frustrating, although die hard MK fans wll surely have no problems LOL. It's a great game and i can't wait to see the sequel. Plenty of morbid entertainment for your dollars.From what i've herd and seen the Xbox version is the BEST version of this game on a console. If you have an Xbox definetly pick this up or rent it. One final thing, Midway would have been smart to make this game Xbox LIVE compatible so you could play with other people online in VS mode, that would have been most excellent.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Mortal Kombat: Deadly Alliance

Product Description:
Mortal Kombat: Deadly Alliance brings the style of the classic fighter game back, with all-new moves, characters, stories and fatalities!Beautiful interactive fighting environments combined with exquisite realistic fighting, for an amazing Mortal Kombat experience!

Want to read more honest consumer review about Mortal Kombat: Deadly Alliance now ?

Medal of Honor Frontline Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Medal of Honor: Frontline is a decent game for the Xbox. It has both its strong points and its shortcomings.
I played Medal of Honor: Allied Assault on the PC and absolutely loved the game.It was my favorite FPS (first-person shooter) hands-down and probably my favorite computer game of all time.I was thrilled to see that with the exception of the D-Day Normandy level, Frontline was completely different than Allied Assault.I was not thrilled to see that the graphics in Frontline paled in comparison to Allied Assault.Enemies and textures are much more animated, almost cartoonish on the Xbox, and given what I had seen in Splinter Cell and Halo, this was a letdown.I know the Xbox has better graphics capabilities than this. Walk through a bush in Frontline and you get a "pixelized" graphic that looks like it was created in Paint, not by a professional graphics artist.
In Frontline, the only time you can save is before and after each level.There are appropriately placed health packs, but they won't help you if you run in to a tank or enemy with a rocket launcher. I found that many times, you had to run in to an ambush and die to understand strategically how to get past it the next time. This wouldn't be as frustrating if you had even one save per level. Believe me, at least once you'll get 95% through a level only to die and have to restart.And you'll probably take your frustration out on the controller. I just feel that this is a poor way to make the game longer and/or more challenging.
There are faults with the AI that I didn't see in Allied Assault or among the better games on the Xbox.Case in point: open a door and two enemies are waiting, if one sees you, you can cap him and the second one won't even react.Huh??There was another time when I couldn't shoot a sniper because I was too far away from him.If I can see him in my scope, he should take damage regardless.
Having said the negative points, I'd like to offer some positives.The sound in this game is better than any other Xbox game I've played. The sound effects are excellent, and there is also some movie-quality, heroic music that plays during key points of the game. The levels are very diverse and well thought out.I like how you can scope any weapon to get a slightly better view of your enemy, but if you do so, you can't move.I felt like a true soldier in this sense. The controls are natural and enjoyable.I love the scoping of the sniper rifle.
If you can accept the shortcomings, Frontline can be an okay experience.I think those who haven't played Allied Assault on the PC would enjoy the game more.If you have, just don't expect it to be nearly as mind-blowing as Allied Assault.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Medal of Honor Frontline

Product Description:
In Medal of Honor: Frontline you go back behind enemy lines as war hero Lt. Jimmy Patterson! Stronger enemy AI makes stealth and speed more important then ever, and makes this a more challenging wargame than before!

Want to read more honest consumer review about Medal of Honor Frontline now ?

Bridge Baron 17 Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This program is wonderful, the world of bridge at your fingertips.The tournaments recorded are dense enough that you can use them at a professional level of play and then come back to them again months later and play them anew.There is also a means of playing games which were not in tournaments.You also have game review, replay, suggestions, and learning at all points for those just starting.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Bridge Baron 17

Product Description:
Bridge Baron 16 offers you the most comprehensive, easy-to-use, bridge game available with all 53 octillion (that's 53 billion billion billion) bridge deals as possible random deals in Bridge Baron.

Want to read more honest consumer review about Bridge Baron 17 now ?

Need For Speed: Underground 2 Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)EA broke the barrier with last year's hit Need For Speed Underground, and rather then let players have some time to catch their breath, BAM!! EA hit us with the new release NFS:U2!!!I saw the trailers, and read the reviews, and experienced some initial hand wringing due to some of the poor reviews i read on-line, but I can say that Underground 2 is an excellent game, and a worthy addition to EA's stable of racing games.The graphics are crisp and clean, and the city of Bayview looks beautiful in the neon washed, wet asphalt look that NFS:U made about as famous and imitatable as "Bullet-Time."The car selections are pretty familiar imports that you can soup up to insane levels of performance but not sure where the hydralics come into play??Seriously the car selection offers the player some nice choices such as the 2000 Honda Civic SI, one of my faves, the Mitsu Evo, the Toyota Supra and Corolla (Legendary drifter), The WRX, and some brand news ones such as the Infinti G35, H2 Hummer, and the 2005 Mustang GT!!! The city is huge, but easy to move around in with or without the aide of a wonderful GPS system that is very similar to the one used in Smuggler's Run and Midnight Club (think BIG GLOWING ARROW)that helps the directionally impaired find their next race, garage, or shop.
At first i found driving all over the city pretty distracting, and I wasn't sure if i liked the idea, but after awhile it becomes second nature, and I like tooling around Bayview in my Souped Up Civic.SUV's have been added to the stable of cars that can be raced but I am almost afraid to try that level of racing yet.EA was kind enough to add replays (FINALLY!!!) and a very nice Dyno center where the tuner in all of us can tinker, and tweak with your car to get the most out of it, and actually see the numbers on the dyno, nice touch.Many real world sponsors have gotten involved with this series and you can slap parts on your car in the game that you can get down at the local shops.I like the realism in that, plus it sounds cool to say that you have a Greddy Turbo, AEM Cold Air Intake, DC Sports Header and Venom Nitrous Oxide System on your Civic SI.Maybe its just me.
The races are still set up with Drags, Drifts, Circuits, Sprints, and some new ones have been added the awesome URL, Underground Racing League, and Auto Cross racing which seems more like Nascar with all the banging, and shoving.A feature borrowed from Tokyo Extreme Racer Zero has also been added where the player can challenge random cars to Outrun matches which adds to re-play value, and adds that Bad Boy factor.
The only negative i can see is that rather then use real motion, or animated sequences with your street racing tutor like from the first one U:2 uses a graphic novel approach to the cutscenes involving the "story".I'm not real crazy about that, BUT i will not let that one little tiny complaint detract from what i think is an exceptionally fun and satisfying racing game.
I am still playing the Career mode like a madman and don't think i have the stones to go on-line and see how real people are racing, but the game is excellent by my standards, and I have gotten a lot of enjoyment out of it in just a few races.So give it a try Drop it in and Drive.Come you know you want to!!!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Need For Speed: Underground 2

Product Description:
Discover the living, breathing world of Need for Speed Underground 2.Taking place in a massive, free-roaming city featuring five distinct interconnected neighborhoods, Need for Speed Underground 2 delivers an immersive game world where reputation is everything.As you explore the city, you'll encounter rivall racers who will school you in ways of the underground and tip you off to the hottest racing spots in town. With the most comprehensive tuning options, all new game modes and the industry's most sought-after cars.

Want to read more honest consumer review about Need For Speed: Underground 2 now ?

Hitman Contracts Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I haven't played too much of the game, but what I've played so far is much more fun and much less frustrating than Hitman 2.Hitman 2 was fun in its own right, but at times got extremely frustrating because of the ease at which your cover could be blown.In this one, though not a whole lot has changed control-wise, it seems as if it's easier and more doable to go through the game by taking different routes.Also, in response to the three customers that commented before me, I do agree that games have gotten much more violent over the past few years, however these games are not intended for kids, nor should they be sold to them.It isn't the game developer's responisbility to put out games that are acceptable for all audiences, instead it is the PARENT'S responsibility to make sure that their kid isn't playing these types of games until he's old enough to play them...Hence the rating system.If you feel bad about playing these games or feel that it's morally wrong to play such games, don't play them, but also don't complain about how they're not suitable for children when it's quite obvious that they were not intended for children.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Hitman Contracts

Product Description:
Hitman: Contracts takes players back into the world of Agent 47, genetically engineered assassin. In this new game, we find him in a hotel room in Paris. Shot up and full of painkillers, he begins hallucinating. As his mind wanders, we'll travel to the missions that left him in this sorry state. Amazing locations, from a realistic slaughterhouse to recreations of Holland, France, China, England & moreIncredible all-new graphics and advanced AI pull you into the world of the assassin -hyperrealistic graphics make you feel like you're watching a movie

Get 2% OFF

Want to read more honest consumer review about Hitman Contracts now ?

ATARI ANNIVERSARY EDITION Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I bought this for the old Tank game which I played for hour when I was in College over twenty years ago.It has a great collection of old video arcade game. My favorite is the tank game (battle zone) which is the game I play the most - The games work well with a Logitech USB game controller I bought.

Click Here to see more reviews about: ATARI ANNIVERSARY EDITION

Product Description:
Platform:WINDOWS 95/98/MEPublisher:ATARIPackaging:jewel caseAtarithe name synonymous with the video game revolution presents the ultimate arcade collection. 12 of the best classic Atari games with all the fast action sights and sounds you remember! Includes: Asteroids AsteroidsDeluxe Battlezone Centipede Crystal Castles Gravitar Millipede Missile Command Pong Super Breakout Tempest WarlordsEach Atari title is faithfully reproduced down to the last detail and each one is just as easy and fun to play.System Requirements: Windows 95/98/MePentium 133MHz or higher16 MB RAM No hard disk space required.Game will play directly from game disc 4X Speed CD-ROM DriveSVGA video card (2 MB or higher) Windows 95/98/Me-compatible sound card DirectX 5.0 (DirectX 7.0a included on CD)indicates that device should be compatible with DirectX version 5.0 or higher.

Want to read more honest consumer review about ATARI ANNIVERSARY EDITION now ?

Halo 2 Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Halo 2 is an excellent game, there's no doubt in that. The core of the game still remains the same as the original, making it almost impossible to take a step backwards. The thing to think about here is how have the changes and improvements affected this game over its predecessor.

For campaign mode the story is not quite as captivating as the original. In addition you need to have it on Heroic for any type of challenge. And, as many other reviews have said, the game is simply much shorter than the previous (the cut scenes graphically were a little dissapointing too). However, the game is really entertaining. The maps are much more detailed, there's more variance in the layout between checkpoints. They did a pretty good job in making the layout not as repetitive. Plus the scenery is pretty interactive and makes you do a lot more cool stuff to accomplish a mission.

Weapons as well have changed a lot. They have increased the types of weapons, as well as improving ones that used to suck (the needler) and taking away some power from the pistol. The much talked about dual weilding is defiantly a nice advantage. It takes a little getting used to know how to use it best and the best combinations of weapons. Although people have complained about the fact you can't throw grenades while using it, it's more realistic (you do only have two hands). So they've made it a powerful tool, but they didn't want it to be unstoppable. Basically it seems like they've leveled the playing field more and although you may be disappointed because something isn't as dominate as before or than you thought it would be, ultimately it's for the better.

Same thing goes for vehicles: you have more to choose from, with different advantages, but they also made each a little more vulnerable and less unstoppable (the rocket launcher lock helps tremendously from the last game).

The multiplayer part of course is amazing. Looking past some minor faults (not all maps are good, the energy sword is too dominate here, etc.) this part really makes the game a cut above anything else.

The limited edition version here only really provides an extra DVD with the making of (which is interesting but not really necessary... you could easily have a friend tell you the stuff on there that's worth knowing). Besides that and the metal case, it's the same. It's really up to you weather $10-15 bucks difference is that big of a deal for you, cause it's not that big of a difference.

Bottom line: Halo 2 is a great game. It's definitely a lot of fun and very enjoyable. It's a little disappointing because the original Halo was such a huge difference from anything out there and I think everyone was expecting Halo 2 to do the same. Unfortunately, it didn't make any drastic leaps that leave you stunned, but maybe (besides living up to the hype) it didn't really need to be. What it did do was make a lot of tweaks, to try and improve on something that was already incredible. You have to praise Bungie for trying their best to please everyone. In the end the hype may have been too much, but don't let it deter you from enjoying this great game.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Halo 2

Product Description:
Halo 2 Limited Edition continues the story of Master Chief, the heroic super-soldier who defied the invading alien Covenant and survived. The Covenant leaders within Halo are angry at this unheard of event. To save face, they launch an invasion of our planet. Earth's defenses are breached, and we're all in danger -- unless Master Chief can lead a small military squad to victory against Covenant forces, in all-out guerilla warfare!Special Limited Edition includes DVD with behind the scenes making of footage, deleted characters and cinematics, art gallery, developer commentary and moreComes in special edition tin case

Want to read more honest consumer review about Halo 2 now ?