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I will talk about some things I like and don't like, technologically related, intelligently.
First off:
Rare
Rare is a company that single hand idly sold the N64 and captured the hearts of many people; they used a previously unknown style with very colourful graphics and simply addictive games. Playing Goldeneye brought a thrill to life and Banjo Kazooie still brings a tear to my eye. *sniff*. Many companies have tried to duplicate Rares' success but none have monopolised any console in the way that Rare monopolised the Nintendo. When people think "it is slipping" I laugh. Rare will always have a trick up their sleeve and are one of the best developing companies EVER. With Conker: Live and uncut, Kameo and Perfect Dark Zero in the pipeline, Rare will soon regain their crown.
Goldeneye and Perfect Dark
Goldeneye is saluted and praised as the yardstick FPS, it single handily launched the N64 and many Nintendo owners thanked the Gods as they paid homage to the game of games. Goldeneye may not have had the most sophisticated graphics, but it made up for that in sheer thrills, fun and an addictive multiplayer. The only fault of Goldeneye was not being able to play against CPU opponents. Goldeneye had some amazingly well recreated weapons and some exciting modes. Multiplayer took away many months of people's lives and finally introduced a game that made humans hibernate by their' machines. Goldeneye was a classic and utter brilliance.
Unfortunately Perfect Dark did not get the media attention of Goldeneye as it was released just pre the N64's demise. This was unfortunate as Perfect Dark was, and still is, the best FPS ever. It had amazingly original weapons such as the Farscape, Slayer- Fly-by-wire and the Laptop gun. Perfect Dark had a better storyline than Goldeneye and addressed all of Goldeneye's minimal faults. Perfect Dark was unfairly given an 18 rating, another factor as to why it was not as appreciated. It featured the best multiplayer on any N64 FPS and included the option to face the computer. There was a wide variety of different "Sims" and the various rules of combat made it Nintendo bliss.
The Xbox
Unfortunately the Xbox has not received the following it deserves, simply as it broke onto the scene in the mid-Playstation 2 community. It doesn't have the attention it deserves, as it had no predecessor, thus has no loyal fan base to buy the console. The PS2 and GC both had product loyal customers, because they liked the originals they decided to buy their' followers. The Xbox is apparently "too big", but this seems the only criticism that can be produced from the Nintendo and Playstation barracks.
Pong
One of the simple most addictive games ever, it featured modes that were sheer fun, and were never fussed about graphics, more modern games should follow this example and I think that if it was slightly updated and revamped, a king would emerge and it would show the following games to worry more about quality than sparkle. Pong featured many modes and a simplistic tennis style game that was just one of the many addictive games.
Crash Bandicoot and Tomb Raider
Crash Bandicoot represents a Playstation genius and a character they are certainly not keen on dropping. Crash Bandicoot one, when it first outed on the PSone a few years back now, caused a real stir. It was an amazingly enjoyable Platformer that has spawned more sequels than Sonic and many outings of the lead character, not all in the same series, for example:
Crash Bandicoot one
Crash Bandicoot two
Crash Bandicoot three: Warped
Crash Bandicoot four
Crash Bandicoot five: Wrath of Cortex
Crash Nitro Kart
Just to name a few. Crash Bandicoot was an amazing game that featured the collection of apple like objects, commonly known as "Wumpa fruits", it saw you battling bosses and exploring a little island chain. Crash Bandicoot has undoubtedly created many wannabe games that just can't quite recreate the success. The graphics are superb and the modes varied. Crash Bandicoot 3: Warped saw the introduction of a "Warp room" that simply divides its' world into little Terry’s orange like segments which are all governed by a boss, related to that world. Unfortunately this formula is a little tired now...
Tomb Raider is a legendary platformer game that Playstation certainly aren't going to let go of. The woman in tight leathers has had a franchise of her own that seems to be only rivalled by the infamous Star Wars. Here is a set of Lara Croft (lead role) memorabilia:
Tomb Raider one
Tomb Raider two
Tomb Raider three
Tomb Raider four
Tomb Raider chronicles
Tomb Raider - the film
Tomb Raider - the film, sequel
Tomb Raider, a Lucozade icon.
It featured revolutionary graphics and an enjoyable platformer that was worshipped by many Playstation owners alike. Lara Croft looks set to stay for at least a while longer.
Star Wars and Star Trek
The George Lucas multi-million pound business, Star Wars, has been a genre on which many games have been modelled; only recently did these games actually start showing some intuitive and promise. The most recent Star Wars outing was Star Wars KOTOR (or Knights Of The Old Republic) was proved to be a real success, whereas the Nintendo 64 game Star Wars: Rogue Squadron was a complete flop. Star Wars has just had its’ fifth film outing and is probably now worth billions. Star Wars is an interesting world and the more recent films have improved Special Effects and slightly better plots.
Star Trek is the famous Television show that is based on the “Starship enterprise”. Star Trek is lesser known and less appreciated. Both have cult fan bases. Star Trek is always shown as the typical show for geeks and has received bad press. I think it is shoddy and boring, with a repetitive plot. In my mind it is a waste of space and Star Wars is also becoming slightly dull now.
The Lord Of The Rings
A book written way, way back. By know a well-known guy, called Tolkien. (Or J.R.R Tolkien, if you are a perfectionist) The book transports readers to a land known as “Middle Earth”, a fantasy world where good fights evil. The book has now been immortalised on film and has thus become far more appreciated, with the book’s popularity rating being boosted in the process. Tolkien’s prime characters, the Hobbits, have now practically become an accepted word in the English vocabulary. Tolkien created many famous characters, Gandalf (wizard), Frodo (Hobbit), Gimley (Dwarf), Legolas (Elf) and Aragorn (Human) to name a few. The books are quite good and atmospheric, the world that the author creates is believable and will “transport” you there, but this illusion is ruined by the constant announcing of names. I found that the characters being able to tell their family tree back to ancient forefathers unbelievable and annoying. For example:
“I am Bob, son of Bill, son of Dwain, son of Grak, son of Mala, second in command of the tribe of Goulash”,
Starts to get on my nerves VERY quickly. I found that the continuity of the books was ruined by these announcements and when the characters met large groups of strangers, you become encouraged to skip the next few chapters.
I preferred the films, but the deeper meaning and understanding is concealed in the books. The films have very good special effects and miss out some of the more boring parts. Unfortunately the films introduce more love than is actually there in the books, whilst cutting out useful information from the novels.
Harry Potter
Encouraged a generation to read books again, but the books soon become very formulaic. Harry goes to the “Dursley’s” house, and then to “Diagon alley” then off to “Hogwarts” magic school to foil another sinister plots of the evil “Voldermort” (or “He who must not be named”). Although the books are good and brimming with description, they are not classics that will be remembered in the next decade or so. Harry Potter is undoubtedly a great success story, only not perfection. There is far too much hysteria about Harry Potter, with kids queuing up at about one in the morning just to get a book.
Rowling’s punctuation is obviously some exception as she “comma splices” and can make some bad errors.
The memorabilia is O.T.T and she has become a billionaire thanks to some Harry Potter sponging gimmicks, although they are not necessarily her ideas.
The films are good but seem to cut out vital parts, so the film can add their own blend of action. The special effects are very good but the books are far better than the films. Unfortunately some of the film’s acting is corny and not very realistic.
Grand Theft Auto
The controversial series, which has created the ultimate anarchy in the games world. The series is Rockstars’ baby, and has certainly made their fortune. The most recent information is that the former Playstation and PC exclusive heads to the Xbox, and is repackaged, with some juicy extras.
The latest addition to the series is Grand Theft Auto: Vice City, which adds to the freedom that has been experienced through Grand Theft Auto 3. Vice City now allows the player to steal golf cars, helicopters, and bikes. A job option is now available and you can work for the various gangs around the city. Both games perfectly recreate a city, from the perspective of an American gangster.
The games have certainly helped market the Playstation 2 and have boosted the sales of advanced graphics cards for the PC, so that the games will function with ease.
I personally like the games and also liked the original GTA 2. The controversy that has been sparked by the series is frankly stupid as things like books contain obscene violence and language, and they are not banned. Providing it is used sensibly, it is a good way to release pent-up anger and aggression, without taking it onto the streets.
First off:
Rare
Rare is a company that single hand idly sold the N64 and captured the hearts of many people; they used a previously unknown style with very colourful graphics and simply addictive games. Playing Goldeneye brought a thrill to life and Banjo Kazooie still brings a tear to my eye. *sniff*. Many companies have tried to duplicate Rares' success but none have monopolised any console in the way that Rare monopolised the Nintendo. When people think "it is slipping" I laugh. Rare will always have a trick up their sleeve and are one of the best developing companies EVER. With Conker: Live and uncut, Kameo and Perfect Dark Zero in the pipeline, Rare will soon regain their crown.
Goldeneye and Perfect Dark
Goldeneye is saluted and praised as the yardstick FPS, it single handily launched the N64 and many Nintendo owners thanked the Gods as they paid homage to the game of games. Goldeneye may not have had the most sophisticated graphics, but it made up for that in sheer thrills, fun and an addictive multiplayer. The only fault of Goldeneye was not being able to play against CPU opponents. Goldeneye had some amazingly well recreated weapons and some exciting modes. Multiplayer took away many months of people's lives and finally introduced a game that made humans hibernate by their' machines. Goldeneye was a classic and utter brilliance.
Unfortunately Perfect Dark did not get the media attention of Goldeneye as it was released just pre the N64's demise. This was unfortunate as Perfect Dark was, and still is, the best FPS ever. It had amazingly original weapons such as the Farscape, Slayer- Fly-by-wire and the Laptop gun. Perfect Dark had a better storyline than Goldeneye and addressed all of Goldeneye's minimal faults. Perfect Dark was unfairly given an 18 rating, another factor as to why it was not as appreciated. It featured the best multiplayer on any N64 FPS and included the option to face the computer. There was a wide variety of different "Sims" and the various rules of combat made it Nintendo bliss.
The Xbox
Unfortunately the Xbox has not received the following it deserves, simply as it broke onto the scene in the mid-Playstation 2 community. It doesn't have the attention it deserves, as it had no predecessor, thus has no loyal fan base to buy the console. The PS2 and GC both had product loyal customers, because they liked the originals they decided to buy their' followers. The Xbox is apparently "too big", but this seems the only criticism that can be produced from the Nintendo and Playstation barracks.
Pong
One of the simple most addictive games ever, it featured modes that were sheer fun, and were never fussed about graphics, more modern games should follow this example and I think that if it was slightly updated and revamped, a king would emerge and it would show the following games to worry more about quality than sparkle. Pong featured many modes and a simplistic tennis style game that was just one of the many addictive games.
Crash Bandicoot and Tomb Raider
Crash Bandicoot represents a Playstation genius and a character they are certainly not keen on dropping. Crash Bandicoot one, when it first outed on the PSone a few years back now, caused a real stir. It was an amazingly enjoyable Platformer that has spawned more sequels than Sonic and many outings of the lead character, not all in the same series, for example:
Crash Bandicoot one
Crash Bandicoot two
Crash Bandicoot three: Warped
Crash Bandicoot four
Crash Bandicoot five: Wrath of Cortex
Crash Nitro Kart
Just to name a few. Crash Bandicoot was an amazing game that featured the collection of apple like objects, commonly known as "Wumpa fruits", it saw you battling bosses and exploring a little island chain. Crash Bandicoot has undoubtedly created many wannabe games that just can't quite recreate the success. The graphics are superb and the modes varied. Crash Bandicoot 3: Warped saw the introduction of a "Warp room" that simply divides its' world into little Terry’s orange like segments which are all governed by a boss, related to that world. Unfortunately this formula is a little tired now...
Tomb Raider is a legendary platformer game that Playstation certainly aren't going to let go of. The woman in tight leathers has had a franchise of her own that seems to be only rivalled by the infamous Star Wars. Here is a set of Lara Croft (lead role) memorabilia:
Tomb Raider one
Tomb Raider two
Tomb Raider three
Tomb Raider four
Tomb Raider chronicles
Tomb Raider - the film
Tomb Raider - the film, sequel
Tomb Raider, a Lucozade icon.
It featured revolutionary graphics and an enjoyable platformer that was worshipped by many Playstation owners alike. Lara Croft looks set to stay for at least a while longer.
Star Wars and Star Trek
The George Lucas multi-million pound business, Star Wars, has been a genre on which many games have been modelled; only recently did these games actually start showing some intuitive and promise. The most recent Star Wars outing was Star Wars KOTOR (or Knights Of The Old Republic) was proved to be a real success, whereas the Nintendo 64 game Star Wars: Rogue Squadron was a complete flop. Star Wars has just had its’ fifth film outing and is probably now worth billions. Star Wars is an interesting world and the more recent films have improved Special Effects and slightly better plots.
Star Trek is the famous Television show that is based on the “Starship enterprise”. Star Trek is lesser known and less appreciated. Both have cult fan bases. Star Trek is always shown as the typical show for geeks and has received bad press. I think it is shoddy and boring, with a repetitive plot. In my mind it is a waste of space and Star Wars is also becoming slightly dull now.
The Lord Of The Rings
A book written way, way back. By know a well-known guy, called Tolkien. (Or J.R.R Tolkien, if you are a perfectionist) The book transports readers to a land known as “Middle Earth”, a fantasy world where good fights evil. The book has now been immortalised on film and has thus become far more appreciated, with the book’s popularity rating being boosted in the process. Tolkien’s prime characters, the Hobbits, have now practically become an accepted word in the English vocabulary. Tolkien created many famous characters, Gandalf (wizard), Frodo (Hobbit), Gimley (Dwarf), Legolas (Elf) and Aragorn (Human) to name a few. The books are quite good and atmospheric, the world that the author creates is believable and will “transport” you there, but this illusion is ruined by the constant announcing of names. I found that the characters being able to tell their family tree back to ancient forefathers unbelievable and annoying. For example:
“I am Bob, son of Bill, son of Dwain, son of Grak, son of Mala, second in command of the tribe of Goulash”,
Starts to get on my nerves VERY quickly. I found that the continuity of the books was ruined by these announcements and when the characters met large groups of strangers, you become encouraged to skip the next few chapters.
I preferred the films, but the deeper meaning and understanding is concealed in the books. The films have very good special effects and miss out some of the more boring parts. Unfortunately the films introduce more love than is actually there in the books, whilst cutting out useful information from the novels.
Harry Potter
Encouraged a generation to read books again, but the books soon become very formulaic. Harry goes to the “Dursley’s” house, and then to “Diagon alley” then off to “Hogwarts” magic school to foil another sinister plots of the evil “Voldermort” (or “He who must not be named”). Although the books are good and brimming with description, they are not classics that will be remembered in the next decade or so. Harry Potter is undoubtedly a great success story, only not perfection. There is far too much hysteria about Harry Potter, with kids queuing up at about one in the morning just to get a book.
Rowling’s punctuation is obviously some exception as she “comma splices” and can make some bad errors.
The memorabilia is O.T.T and she has become a billionaire thanks to some Harry Potter sponging gimmicks, although they are not necessarily her ideas.
The films are good but seem to cut out vital parts, so the film can add their own blend of action. The special effects are very good but the books are far better than the films. Unfortunately some of the film’s acting is corny and not very realistic.
Grand Theft Auto
The controversial series, which has created the ultimate anarchy in the games world. The series is Rockstars’ baby, and has certainly made their fortune. The most recent information is that the former Playstation and PC exclusive heads to the Xbox, and is repackaged, with some juicy extras.
The latest addition to the series is Grand Theft Auto: Vice City, which adds to the freedom that has been experienced through Grand Theft Auto 3. Vice City now allows the player to steal golf cars, helicopters, and bikes. A job option is now available and you can work for the various gangs around the city. Both games perfectly recreate a city, from the perspective of an American gangster.
The games have certainly helped market the Playstation 2 and have boosted the sales of advanced graphics cards for the PC, so that the games will function with ease.
I personally like the games and also liked the original GTA 2. The controversy that has been sparked by the series is frankly stupid as things like books contain obscene violence and language, and they are not banned. Providing it is used sensibly, it is a good way to release pent-up anger and aggression, without taking it onto the streets.
The "Wind on fire trilogy" is just as good as "His Dark Materials", only lesser known.
I just read your Potter stuff again - and you said some good stuff about it. I must have only read the bad.
I disagree, then - tosh.
The 4th one was okay, if a little predictable.
But the 5th made me want to punch Rowling for the utter pointlessness of it - nothing actually happened. As for her 'horrible, horrible death' someone should buy her a dictionary.
Kids should read His Dark Materials over Potter - well, at least Nothern Lights. The UK's turning atheist anyway, so I doubt they'll do any harm : P
I disagree, then - tosh.
The 4th one was okay, if a little predictable.
But the 5th made me want to punch Rowling for the utter pointlessness of it - nothing actually happened. As for her 'horrible, horrible death' someone should buy her a dictionary.
Kids should read His Dark Materials over Potter - well, at least Nothern Lights. The UK's turning atheist anyway, so I doubt they'll do any harm : P
Insane Bartender wrote:
> FinalFantasyFanatic wrote:
> I think your Harry Potter views are shared by all.
>
> If his view is that the books are a pathetic collection of
> over-written kiddies books that became popular simply through modern
> fad culture and actually contain nothing original or indeed inspiring
> at all, then yeah, I share that view.
Heh. I kinda enjoyed them. Sorry.
>
> Inspired a generation to read? My furry fat hind. If that were the
> truth, I'd be reading about all the other books these illiterate
> muppets had discovered. Am I reading about that? Am I?
No, but then again "Kids read books other than Potter!" isn't exactly newsworthy, is it?
>
> No. Because all these people new to reading are sat on their thumbs
> waiting for the next overcaked, overhyped pile of vacuous nonsense to
> come their way.
Not entirely true; my nephew for example has started reading LOTR and His Dark Materials on the strength of the Harry Potter books.
>
> FinalFantasyFanatic wrote:
> I think your Harry Potter views are shared by all.
>
> If his view is that the books are a pathetic collection of
> over-written kiddies books that became popular simply through modern
> fad culture and actually contain nothing original or indeed inspiring
> at all, then yeah, I share that view.
Heh. I kinda enjoyed them. Sorry.
>
> Inspired a generation to read? My furry fat hind. If that were the
> truth, I'd be reading about all the other books these illiterate
> muppets had discovered. Am I reading about that? Am I?
No, but then again "Kids read books other than Potter!" isn't exactly newsworthy, is it?
>
> No. Because all these people new to reading are sat on their thumbs
> waiting for the next overcaked, overhyped pile of vacuous nonsense to
> come their way.
Not entirely true; my nephew for example has started reading LOTR and His Dark Materials on the strength of the Harry Potter books.
>
FinalFantasyFanatic wrote:
> I think your Harry Potter views are shared by all.
If his view is that the books are a pathetic collection of over-written kiddies books that became popular simply through modern fad culture and actually contain nothing original or indeed inspiring at all, then yeah, I share that view.
Inspired a generation to read? My furry fat hind. If that were the truth, I'd be reading about all the other books these illiterate muppets had discovered. Am I reading about that? Am I?
No. Because all these people new to reading are sat on their thumbs waiting for the next overcaked, overhyped pile of vacuous nonsense to come their way.
Bunch of ignorant philistines.
> I think your Harry Potter views are shared by all.
If his view is that the books are a pathetic collection of over-written kiddies books that became popular simply through modern fad culture and actually contain nothing original or indeed inspiring at all, then yeah, I share that view.
Inspired a generation to read? My furry fat hind. If that were the truth, I'd be reading about all the other books these illiterate muppets had discovered. Am I reading about that? Am I?
No. Because all these people new to reading are sat on their thumbs waiting for the next overcaked, overhyped pile of vacuous nonsense to come their way.
Bunch of ignorant philistines.
The point is to spark and prise some intelligent thought out of the forum, also to give and share opinions on diverse subjects. Harry Potter is not "the worst book" ever, just too formulaic and a cash-in, rather than a sequel.
All very good, but is there any actual point?
Apart from the GAD attempt - and real point you're trying to make on games overall or the industry? Or just a collection of thought and feelings?
I think your Harry Potter views are shared by all. The 5th book was the worst book I've ever read, and I read quite a lot. It was horribly pointless and un-emotive. Yucky.
Rowling's fame is more deserved of better writers.
By the by, Crash 2 first has warp rooms. And was much superior to 3.
Apart from the GAD attempt - and real point you're trying to make on games overall or the industry? Or just a collection of thought and feelings?
I think your Harry Potter views are shared by all. The 5th book was the worst book I've ever read, and I read quite a lot. It was horribly pointless and un-emotive. Yucky.
Rowling's fame is more deserved of better writers.
By the by, Crash 2 first has warp rooms. And was much superior to 3.
I will talk about some things I like and don't like, technologically related, intelligently.
First off:
Rare
Rare is a company that single hand idly sold the N64 and captured the hearts of many people; they used a previously unknown style with very colourful graphics and simply addictive games. Playing Goldeneye brought a thrill to life and Banjo Kazooie still brings a tear to my eye. *sniff*. Many companies have tried to duplicate Rares' success but none have monopolised any console in the way that Rare monopolised the Nintendo. When people think "it is slipping" I laugh. Rare will always have a trick up their sleeve and are one of the best developing companies EVER. With Conker: Live and uncut, Kameo and Perfect Dark Zero in the pipeline, Rare will soon regain their crown.
Goldeneye and Perfect Dark
Goldeneye is saluted and praised as the yardstick FPS, it single handily launched the N64 and many Nintendo owners thanked the Gods as they paid homage to the game of games. Goldeneye may not have had the most sophisticated graphics, but it made up for that in sheer thrills, fun and an addictive multiplayer. The only fault of Goldeneye was not being able to play against CPU opponents. Goldeneye had some amazingly well recreated weapons and some exciting modes. Multiplayer took away many months of people's lives and finally introduced a game that made humans hibernate by their' machines. Goldeneye was a classic and utter brilliance.
Unfortunately Perfect Dark did not get the media attention of Goldeneye as it was released just pre the N64's demise. This was unfortunate as Perfect Dark was, and still is, the best FPS ever. It had amazingly original weapons such as the Farscape, Slayer- Fly-by-wire and the Laptop gun. Perfect Dark had a better storyline than Goldeneye and addressed all of Goldeneye's minimal faults. Perfect Dark was unfairly given an 18 rating, another factor as to why it was not as appreciated. It featured the best multiplayer on any N64 FPS and included the option to face the computer. There was a wide variety of different "Sims" and the various rules of combat made it Nintendo bliss.
The Xbox
Unfortunately the Xbox has not received the following it deserves, simply as it broke onto the scene in the mid-Playstation 2 community. It doesn't have the attention it deserves, as it had no predecessor, thus has no loyal fan base to buy the console. The PS2 and GC both had product loyal customers, because they liked the originals they decided to buy their' followers. The Xbox is apparently "too big", but this seems the only criticism that can be produced from the Nintendo and Playstation barracks.
Pong
One of the simple most addictive games ever, it featured modes that were sheer fun, and were never fussed about graphics, more modern games should follow this example and I think that if it was slightly updated and revamped, a king would emerge and it would show the following games to worry more about quality than sparkle. Pong featured many modes and a simplistic tennis style game that was just one of the many addictive games.
Crash Bandicoot and Tomb Raider
Crash Bandicoot represents a Playstation genius and a character they are certainly not keen on dropping. Crash Bandicoot one, when it first outed on the PSone a few years back now, caused a real stir. It was an amazingly enjoyable Platformer that has spawned more sequels than Sonic and many outings of the lead character, not all in the same series, for example:
Crash Bandicoot one
Crash Bandicoot two
Crash Bandicoot three: Warped
Crash Bandicoot four
Crash Bandicoot five: Wrath of Cortex
Crash Nitro Kart
Just to name a few. Crash Bandicoot was an amazing game that featured the collection of apple like objects, commonly known as "Wumpa fruits", it saw you battling bosses and exploring a little island chain. Crash Bandicoot has undoubtedly created many wannabe games that just can't quite recreate the success. The graphics are superb and the modes varied. Crash Bandicoot 3: Warped saw the introduction of a "Warp room" that simply divides its' world into little Terry’s orange like segments which are all governed by a boss, related to that world. Unfortunately this formula is a little tired now...
Tomb Raider is a legendary platformer game that Playstation certainly aren't going to let go of. The woman in tight leathers has had a franchise of her own that seems to be only rivalled by the infamous Star Wars. Here is a set of Lara Croft (lead role) memorabilia:
Tomb Raider one
Tomb Raider two
Tomb Raider three
Tomb Raider four
Tomb Raider chronicles
Tomb Raider - the film
Tomb Raider - the film, sequel
Tomb Raider, a Lucozade icon.
It featured revolutionary graphics and an enjoyable platformer that was worshipped by many Playstation owners alike. Lara Croft looks set to stay for at least a while longer.
Star Wars and Star Trek
The George Lucas multi-million pound business, Star Wars, has been a genre on which many games have been modelled; only recently did these games actually start showing some intuitive and promise. The most recent Star Wars outing was Star Wars KOTOR (or Knights Of The Old Republic) was proved to be a real success, whereas the Nintendo 64 game Star Wars: Rogue Squadron was a complete flop. Star Wars has just had its’ fifth film outing and is probably now worth billions. Star Wars is an interesting world and the more recent films have improved Special Effects and slightly better plots.
Star Trek is the famous Television show that is based on the “Starship enterprise”. Star Trek is lesser known and less appreciated. Both have cult fan bases. Star Trek is always shown as the typical show for geeks and has received bad press. I think it is shoddy and boring, with a repetitive plot. In my mind it is a waste of space and Star Wars is also becoming slightly dull now.
The Lord Of The Rings
A book written way, way back. By know a well-known guy, called Tolkien. (Or J.R.R Tolkien, if you are a perfectionist) The book transports readers to a land known as “Middle Earth”, a fantasy world where good fights evil. The book has now been immortalised on film and has thus become far more appreciated, with the book’s popularity rating being boosted in the process. Tolkien’s prime characters, the Hobbits, have now practically become an accepted word in the English vocabulary. Tolkien created many famous characters, Gandalf (wizard), Frodo (Hobbit), Gimley (Dwarf), Legolas (Elf) and Aragorn (Human) to name a few. The books are quite good and atmospheric, the world that the author creates is believable and will “transport” you there, but this illusion is ruined by the constant announcing of names. I found that the characters being able to tell their family tree back to ancient forefathers unbelievable and annoying. For example:
“I am Bob, son of Bill, son of Dwain, son of Grak, son of Mala, second in command of the tribe of Goulash”,
Starts to get on my nerves VERY quickly. I found that the continuity of the books was ruined by these announcements and when the characters met large groups of strangers, you become encouraged to skip the next few chapters.
I preferred the films, but the deeper meaning and understanding is concealed in the books. The films have very good special effects and miss out some of the more boring parts. Unfortunately the films introduce more love than is actually there in the books, whilst cutting out useful information from the novels.
Harry Potter
Encouraged a generation to read books again, but the books soon become very formulaic. Harry goes to the “Dursley’s” house, and then to “Diagon alley” then off to “Hogwarts” magic school to foil another sinister plots of the evil “Voldermort” (or “He who must not be named”). Although the books are good and brimming with description, they are not classics that will be remembered in the next decade or so. Harry Potter is undoubtedly a great success story, only not perfection. There is far too much hysteria about Harry Potter, with kids queuing up at about one in the morning just to get a book.
Rowling’s punctuation is obviously some exception as she “comma splices” and can make some bad errors.
The memorabilia is O.T.T and she has become a billionaire thanks to some Harry Potter sponging gimmicks, although they are not necessarily her ideas.
The films are good but seem to cut out vital parts, so the film can add their own blend of action. The special effects are very good but the books are far better than the films. Unfortunately some of the film’s acting is corny and not very realistic.
Grand Theft Auto
The controversial series, which has created the ultimate anarchy in the games world. The series is Rockstars’ baby, and has certainly made their fortune. The most recent information is that the former Playstation and PC exclusive heads to the Xbox, and is repackaged, with some juicy extras.
The latest addition to the series is Grand Theft Auto: Vice City, which adds to the freedom that has been experienced through Grand Theft Auto 3. Vice City now allows the player to steal golf cars, helicopters, and bikes. A job option is now available and you can work for the various gangs around the city. Both games perfectly recreate a city, from the perspective of an American gangster.
The games have certainly helped market the Playstation 2 and have boosted the sales of advanced graphics cards for the PC, so that the games will function with ease.
I personally like the games and also liked the original GTA 2. The controversy that has been sparked by the series is frankly stupid as things like books contain obscene violence and language, and they are not banned. Providing it is used sensibly, it is a good way to release pent-up anger and aggression, without taking it onto the streets.
First off:
Rare
Rare is a company that single hand idly sold the N64 and captured the hearts of many people; they used a previously unknown style with very colourful graphics and simply addictive games. Playing Goldeneye brought a thrill to life and Banjo Kazooie still brings a tear to my eye. *sniff*. Many companies have tried to duplicate Rares' success but none have monopolised any console in the way that Rare monopolised the Nintendo. When people think "it is slipping" I laugh. Rare will always have a trick up their sleeve and are one of the best developing companies EVER. With Conker: Live and uncut, Kameo and Perfect Dark Zero in the pipeline, Rare will soon regain their crown.
Goldeneye and Perfect Dark
Goldeneye is saluted and praised as the yardstick FPS, it single handily launched the N64 and many Nintendo owners thanked the Gods as they paid homage to the game of games. Goldeneye may not have had the most sophisticated graphics, but it made up for that in sheer thrills, fun and an addictive multiplayer. The only fault of Goldeneye was not being able to play against CPU opponents. Goldeneye had some amazingly well recreated weapons and some exciting modes. Multiplayer took away many months of people's lives and finally introduced a game that made humans hibernate by their' machines. Goldeneye was a classic and utter brilliance.
Unfortunately Perfect Dark did not get the media attention of Goldeneye as it was released just pre the N64's demise. This was unfortunate as Perfect Dark was, and still is, the best FPS ever. It had amazingly original weapons such as the Farscape, Slayer- Fly-by-wire and the Laptop gun. Perfect Dark had a better storyline than Goldeneye and addressed all of Goldeneye's minimal faults. Perfect Dark was unfairly given an 18 rating, another factor as to why it was not as appreciated. It featured the best multiplayer on any N64 FPS and included the option to face the computer. There was a wide variety of different "Sims" and the various rules of combat made it Nintendo bliss.
The Xbox
Unfortunately the Xbox has not received the following it deserves, simply as it broke onto the scene in the mid-Playstation 2 community. It doesn't have the attention it deserves, as it had no predecessor, thus has no loyal fan base to buy the console. The PS2 and GC both had product loyal customers, because they liked the originals they decided to buy their' followers. The Xbox is apparently "too big", but this seems the only criticism that can be produced from the Nintendo and Playstation barracks.
Pong
One of the simple most addictive games ever, it featured modes that were sheer fun, and were never fussed about graphics, more modern games should follow this example and I think that if it was slightly updated and revamped, a king would emerge and it would show the following games to worry more about quality than sparkle. Pong featured many modes and a simplistic tennis style game that was just one of the many addictive games.
Crash Bandicoot and Tomb Raider
Crash Bandicoot represents a Playstation genius and a character they are certainly not keen on dropping. Crash Bandicoot one, when it first outed on the PSone a few years back now, caused a real stir. It was an amazingly enjoyable Platformer that has spawned more sequels than Sonic and many outings of the lead character, not all in the same series, for example:
Crash Bandicoot one
Crash Bandicoot two
Crash Bandicoot three: Warped
Crash Bandicoot four
Crash Bandicoot five: Wrath of Cortex
Crash Nitro Kart
Just to name a few. Crash Bandicoot was an amazing game that featured the collection of apple like objects, commonly known as "Wumpa fruits", it saw you battling bosses and exploring a little island chain. Crash Bandicoot has undoubtedly created many wannabe games that just can't quite recreate the success. The graphics are superb and the modes varied. Crash Bandicoot 3: Warped saw the introduction of a "Warp room" that simply divides its' world into little Terry’s orange like segments which are all governed by a boss, related to that world. Unfortunately this formula is a little tired now...
Tomb Raider is a legendary platformer game that Playstation certainly aren't going to let go of. The woman in tight leathers has had a franchise of her own that seems to be only rivalled by the infamous Star Wars. Here is a set of Lara Croft (lead role) memorabilia:
Tomb Raider one
Tomb Raider two
Tomb Raider three
Tomb Raider four
Tomb Raider chronicles
Tomb Raider - the film
Tomb Raider - the film, sequel
Tomb Raider, a Lucozade icon.
It featured revolutionary graphics and an enjoyable platformer that was worshipped by many Playstation owners alike. Lara Croft looks set to stay for at least a while longer.
Star Wars and Star Trek
The George Lucas multi-million pound business, Star Wars, has been a genre on which many games have been modelled; only recently did these games actually start showing some intuitive and promise. The most recent Star Wars outing was Star Wars KOTOR (or Knights Of The Old Republic) was proved to be a real success, whereas the Nintendo 64 game Star Wars: Rogue Squadron was a complete flop. Star Wars has just had its’ fifth film outing and is probably now worth billions. Star Wars is an interesting world and the more recent films have improved Special Effects and slightly better plots.
Star Trek is the famous Television show that is based on the “Starship enterprise”. Star Trek is lesser known and less appreciated. Both have cult fan bases. Star Trek is always shown as the typical show for geeks and has received bad press. I think it is shoddy and boring, with a repetitive plot. In my mind it is a waste of space and Star Wars is also becoming slightly dull now.
The Lord Of The Rings
A book written way, way back. By know a well-known guy, called Tolkien. (Or J.R.R Tolkien, if you are a perfectionist) The book transports readers to a land known as “Middle Earth”, a fantasy world where good fights evil. The book has now been immortalised on film and has thus become far more appreciated, with the book’s popularity rating being boosted in the process. Tolkien’s prime characters, the Hobbits, have now practically become an accepted word in the English vocabulary. Tolkien created many famous characters, Gandalf (wizard), Frodo (Hobbit), Gimley (Dwarf), Legolas (Elf) and Aragorn (Human) to name a few. The books are quite good and atmospheric, the world that the author creates is believable and will “transport” you there, but this illusion is ruined by the constant announcing of names. I found that the characters being able to tell their family tree back to ancient forefathers unbelievable and annoying. For example:
“I am Bob, son of Bill, son of Dwain, son of Grak, son of Mala, second in command of the tribe of Goulash”,
Starts to get on my nerves VERY quickly. I found that the continuity of the books was ruined by these announcements and when the characters met large groups of strangers, you become encouraged to skip the next few chapters.
I preferred the films, but the deeper meaning and understanding is concealed in the books. The films have very good special effects and miss out some of the more boring parts. Unfortunately the films introduce more love than is actually there in the books, whilst cutting out useful information from the novels.
Harry Potter
Encouraged a generation to read books again, but the books soon become very formulaic. Harry goes to the “Dursley’s” house, and then to “Diagon alley” then off to “Hogwarts” magic school to foil another sinister plots of the evil “Voldermort” (or “He who must not be named”). Although the books are good and brimming with description, they are not classics that will be remembered in the next decade or so. Harry Potter is undoubtedly a great success story, only not perfection. There is far too much hysteria about Harry Potter, with kids queuing up at about one in the morning just to get a book.
Rowling’s punctuation is obviously some exception as she “comma splices” and can make some bad errors.
The memorabilia is O.T.T and she has become a billionaire thanks to some Harry Potter sponging gimmicks, although they are not necessarily her ideas.
The films are good but seem to cut out vital parts, so the film can add their own blend of action. The special effects are very good but the books are far better than the films. Unfortunately some of the film’s acting is corny and not very realistic.
Grand Theft Auto
The controversial series, which has created the ultimate anarchy in the games world. The series is Rockstars’ baby, and has certainly made their fortune. The most recent information is that the former Playstation and PC exclusive heads to the Xbox, and is repackaged, with some juicy extras.
The latest addition to the series is Grand Theft Auto: Vice City, which adds to the freedom that has been experienced through Grand Theft Auto 3. Vice City now allows the player to steal golf cars, helicopters, and bikes. A job option is now available and you can work for the various gangs around the city. Both games perfectly recreate a city, from the perspective of an American gangster.
The games have certainly helped market the Playstation 2 and have boosted the sales of advanced graphics cards for the PC, so that the games will function with ease.
I personally like the games and also liked the original GTA 2. The controversy that has been sparked by the series is frankly stupid as things like books contain obscene violence and language, and they are not banned. Providing it is used sensibly, it is a good way to release pent-up anger and aggression, without taking it onto the streets.