Vuzix Wrap 920AV Video Sunglasses

Vuzix Wrap 920AV Video Sunglasses

Author ColGlobe | 05.01.2009 | Category Technology, Video Games

Welcome to the age of science fiction. The Vuzix Wrap 920AV Video Sunglasses are identical to something you would expect to see only in the movies. Built to operate with any media device that provides audio and video output, these cool shades project a virtual screen. The screen is intended to mimic a 60 inch widescreen when viewed from 9 ft (3m) away. 

But these are actually sunglasses, as well. While you are watching 3D content on the Vuzix Wrap 920AV, you are still free to interact with your physical environment. This could be a major step in the direction of a true interactive virtual reality, and optional devices for these sunglasses offer the ability to view augmented reality, which is a blend of computerized video with your physical surroundings. Perhaps the best, but not most accurate, example would be the heads-up display, which offers additional information to expand visual cues.

The basic unit provides private video display, both Virtual and Augmented Reality modes, and noise cancelling earphones, all in a package that weighs only around 3 ounces. The battery life is sufficient for most uses, as well, with an estimated battery life of 6 hours.

Rochester, NY – January 5th, 2009 – Vuzix Corporation is thrilled to announce a ground-breaking addition to the video eyewear market: the Wrap 920AV. As the demand for mobile access to digital entertainment and information skyrockets, Vuzix has once again pushed the envelope. This portable big screen solution with Vuzix’ proprietary Quantum optics technology allows for a “see-thru” video experience in the form of a functional pair of sunglasses and is upgradeable with optional accessories.

The stylish Wrap 920AV functions with any media playing device with a video output and projects a virtual 60-inch screen, as viewed from 9-feet. The state-of-the-art lens technology also allows users for the first time to view 3D video content while seeing and interacting with the real world. This incredible blend of reality and computer generated content will transform the world of portable video while opening up the consumer to previously impossible “location aware” applications. An optional 6-Degree of Freedom tracking sensor and/or Stereo Camera Pair will enable users to upgrade their Wrap 920AV to experience virtual, augmented and mixed reality environments.

 

Sony Losing The Plot

Author JoeDigital | 13.12.2008 | Category Consumer Electronics, Networking, Video Games

The PS3 is a home electronics center, with Hi-Def video, Blue-Ray, DVD, Wireless, and Video Games all rolled up into one device.

As a gaming enthusiast and a fan of the PS2 I think that Sony has completely lost the plot when it comes to the PS3. Dollar for dollar it is the most complete solution on the market, the only problem is, the market doesn’t seem to know it.

Retailing at about $600 the PS3 if seen from a gaming point of view is nothing special given the current market scenario, but that is not what Sony intended to market it as. The PS3 was intended to be marketed as a complete home theater system and from that point of view it is an amazing buy.

It’s amazing how Sony step by step and in a truly methodical fashion destroyed the enormous lead it had over other gaming platforms a late release, unimpressive lineup at its launch, more expensive than its competitors and a lot harder to make games for. On the home entertainment front even though it won the format war with HD-DVD it did a terrible job of enlightening consumers about it. Many continue to buy Hd-DVd players because they think it’s the future and a lot don’t know that a blu ray player will upscale standard definition DVD’s to Blu ray quality.

At the same time competitors at circling overhead to capture the yet untapped market of the blu ray home theater player. Samsung has released a player that can stream videos of net flix, Xbox took note and now offers the same services plus a cheaper core system at $!99 and Sony’s reply to all this was to release a player that is another $100 more expensive.

Oh will the woes never end!

NZXT Avatar: The Gamer’s mouse

Author ColGlobe | 17.11.2008 | Category Computers, Video Games

The NZXT Avatar is a mouse designed for gamers

Video game fans might be flattered with this new piece of technology designed especially for them and their special gaming needs. Introducing the NZXT Avatar Gaming Mouse, a computer mouse that does more than what the ordinary ones those come with your laptop or PC.

This sturdy little gadget is equipped with physical features for better gripping with right and left hands as well as rubber and Teflon tips for those sweaty palms and fast movers. The mouse is also ready with additional side buttons for gamers to use. These buttons are flexible and programmable with the software that comes along with it to suit every player’s preference in every particular game they play. The DPI settings are also top of the line and ideal for gamers at 600-1200 DPI.

This gaming gadget which comes complete with software and driver is on sale at a well reasonable price of $69.99.

Fallout 3 is Here!

Author ColGlobe | 15.11.2008 | Category Computers, Video Games

Fallout 2 was my introduction to the post-atomic wasteland of tomorrow, and the wondrous marvels that were left behind by Vaul-Tec. As the member of a tribe descended from the Vault Dweller, the goal was to find a G.E.C.K. and bring life back to my dying village. Differing from many RPG style games, Fallout allows the player to fallow any path they choose, from the most peaceful diplomat to a raging barbarian armed with energy weapons. It is equiped with both violence and adult themes filters, so the game can be pleasurable for all.

And Now Fallout 3 has hit the scene. Using the same open experience engine as before, the game comes back again for further adventures in the wastelands. This version takes place 30 years after the adventure of Fallout 2, and 200 years after the bombs that wiped out civilization. The location is the area around Washington, DC, and here is what the website has to say:

“Vault 101 – Jewel of the Wastes. For 200 years, Vault 101 has faithfully served the surviving residents of Washington DC and its environs, now known as the Capital Wasteland. Though the global atomic war of 2077 left the US all but destroyed, the residents of Vault 101 enjoy a life free from the constant stress of the outside world. Giant Insects, Raiders, Slavers, and yes, even Super Mutants are all no match for superior Vault-Tec engineering. Yet one fateful morning, you awake to find that your father has defied the Overseer and left the comfort and security afforded by Vault 101 for reasons unknown. Leaving the only home you’ve ever known, you emerge from the Vault into the harsh Wasteland sun to search for your father, and the truth.”

There are some videos on the website, and a ton more information. Take a look, and you’ll see why this game such a popular single player RPG.

Blizzard: WoW II- Wrath of the Lich King

Author JoeDigital | 14.11.2008 | Category Video Games, World Wide Web

WoW II: Wrath of the Lich King, is now available!

Blizzard Entertainment, the creator of such wildly popular games as Starcraft, Diablo, and World of Warcraft, released it’s newest MMORPG yesterday, World of Warcraft: Wrath of the Lich King, the sequel the most popular online game in the world.

That’s the good news. The bad news is that only a day later, fans are filling the blizzard message forums with problems and complaints, mostly concerned with problems installing the game.

Another problem, which probably should have been anticipated, is that many game servers are simply being overloaded, resulting in crashes and server reboots, which in turn results in player progress being lost.

While it is certain these problems wwill be ironed out soon, they are proving to be extremely frustrating for the millions of fans who have been eagerly awaiting the game for months.

Blizzard: World of Warcraft

Author JoeDigital | 14.11.2008 | Category Video Games, World Wide Web

World of Warcraft is the most popular online role playing game in the world

Blizzard Entertainment is perhaps best known for World of Warcraft, the most popular massively multiplayer role playing game in the world. Players are able to choose from among many different races, and then set a character type that suits the desires of the player, and then venture out into a world populated by computer enemies, and filled with players who log into the game from all over the world.

In addition to gameplay, the game interface allows users to talk to each other through their computer speakers and microphone, or even use the older typed chat feature.  There is even a World of Warcraft Community Site where people can find out the latestest news, learn about the details of creatures and weapons, or just forge new friendships.

The game interface takes a little getting used to, but is surprisingly easy to use, considering there are hundreds of items ranging from weapons to potions, and dozens of gameplay options. The basic premise is to explore a world, battling beasts and forging alliances. It is even possible to engage in massive online campaigns with other players, which allow cooperative interaction to accomplish goals within the game.

Blizzard: Diablo III

Author JoeDigital | 11.11.2008 | Category Innovation, Video Games

Taste the adventure for yourself

At the Diablo home page, we are greeted with this opening:

Two decades have passed since the demonic lords, Diablo, Mephisto, and Baal, set out across the world of Sanctuary on a vicious rampage, twisting humanity to their unholy will. Yet for those who battled the Prime Evils, the memory fades slowly.

For fans of the game, this alone is enough to get the blood flowing, and their interest engaged. Blizzard Entertainment has done it again, bringing back another of their 3 famed success stories with the long-awaited sequel to Diablo and Diablo II. 

Venture forth yourself, and explore the realms of Sanctuary. According to the website, great care has been taken to rtain the ease of play, and the stunning artwork that made its predecessor a hit, with new enemies to be battled, and a long list of adventures to be realized.

There are five distinct character classes available, and the player may choose to be either male or female. Armed with an array of exciting new spells and weapons, the game promises to keep even the most jaded gamers coming back for more.

Blizzard: Starcraft II

Author JoeDigital | 10.11.2008 | Category Video Games, World Wide Web

Screenshot from Starcraft II

Starcraft II is the long awaited sequel to Stracraft. It is designed to run a brand new graphics engine that allows both smoothly scrolling landscapes and massive army sizes. Blizzard has expanded on the success of the original Starcraft to bring you this updated and enhanced game. But don’t get confused, this is not a remake of the original Stracraft, it is a totally new, state of the art video game.

Even the units that seem familiar from the old game are likely to have amazing new capabilities, and new units have also been added to several groups, including the protoss, terran, and zerg. The maps have been much improved for tactical usage, and are much more interactive.  One example is that capturing the XZel’Naga watchtower will give its holder a tactical advantage because it will allow a line of sight viewing across a large section of the map.