My 5 Favorite PSP Games

Everyone who's ever played PSP games is passionate about their favorite games. You can tell that just by looking at all the "top 10" lists online.

I don't have enough room for a top 10...but I will share with you my personal selection for the best 5 PSP Games. These are not in any particular order, other than they all make the top of my list.

* God of War: Chains of Olympus. As most reviewers have reported, this game almost single-handedly revives and reinvents the 3-D action genre. It features unparalleled presentation and tightly-wound combat. I believe this is the best-looking game created for any hand-held game console.

* Lumines II. I was always a huge Tetris fanatic, which explains why I like this game so much--reminiscent of that classic game. In this one, colored blacks descend from the screen top and you must clear them out by forming various like-colored combinations. It features gorgeous special effects and a great musical soundtrack.

* Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories. Yes, the GTA franchise makes its appearance on the PSP. The game allows you to build your crime syndicate while watching over your lovely ladies. While it has some flaws, this game provides a great visceral experience.

* Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII. This outstanding entry features gorgeous graphics and unbelievable real-tie battles. It's also a plus that it features cameos by popular characters from Final Fantasy VII.

* Killzone: Liberation. This is a game which totally unshackles the PS2 first-firston shooter experience for the handheld players. Unlike other shooters, it features top-down play, but once you get used to it, it's a blast.

I'm sure that if you try any one of these games, you'll consider it money well-spent.

Building Relationships Through Video Games on the Internet

These games have become tools specifically put in place to attract new consumers to the video game industry. It's the perfect solution, since the online games never deteriorate and are affordably available to a large audience. The games are innovated, and not necessarily like any traditional video games that are reserved for computers, gaming systems, and even cellphones.

Today, shopping online is is the most popular service for finding the best video games online. Online services offer the most titles for the Wii, Playstation 3, and Xbox. Shortly after computers were introduced to the market, people started realizing the potential that games had with the new technology. The entertainment industry took a drastic turn, and the changes have been amazing.

It's now possible to compete against people around the world, simply by connecting to the internet. A recent AOL poll has shown that all age groups have taken an interest in these games, rather than just children. The evolution over the last thirty years has gained appeal for everybody, and the sales clearly reflect it. Online games are so unique because they connect thousands of users from around the world. Some individuals are so satisfied with the new technology, that they have developed unhealthy addictions to them.

An average person spends three hours a week playing games. Individuals between the ages of 18 and 34 devote closer to five hours a week to games. The online feature offers more than just a game. There's a communication aspect involved, which lets people develop relationships with other people, while never revealing their true self.

The improved graphics and quality, along with easy access and generally free play, make it a perfect past time. The online video games are popular because they run realistic scenarios that the gamers can control, but may never be able to actually participate in. This power and adventure is exhilarating. Involving other live players generally results in people playing longer than if they were alone. There is a new component involved, where the user doesn't want to leave the conversation that was taking place, or continue to develop a friendship.

Traditional games have never offered this, but the change is enjoyed by most of the gaming audience. It's clear that more young males use the online games than young females, regardless of their location.

However, anybody with a broadband connection, or a great DSL or cable connection, is able to participate. This form of entertainment is sure to have a bright future, with even more improvements and widening fan base.

You Have a Great Idea For a Video Game - What Should You Do?

Maybe you have thought up a really neat and unique idea for a video game and you are thinking "If I can just get in touch with the right people I can sell it and make a lot of money. And I get to see my idea turned into a game that people will play".

Well, that may be true, and it is possible to do but, to be honest, it is very unlikely. Developing a video game takes a lot of work. A typical game for today's mass market takes a team of people two years and thousands of hours of work to create. There is a tremendous amount of work involved and much of this work is very creative which can be expensive.

Maybe all of that is a bit discouraging and if you really think you have an idea that is unique there are some things you can do and I will explain the steps and processes you can take to move your idea for a game out of the world of fantasy into the world of possibility.

The big obstacle to getting your idea made into a game is the question of who is going to do all that work? It is an important question. A group of people have to believe in the idea and have to do the work to take it from idea to reality, and generally you have to rely on yourself. If you believe in your idea you need to be the person that will spearhead the work and get it from idea to reality. If you can do this, and if your game is unique and different the rewards can be astonishing.

Three Possible Paths to Success

There are three possible ways to get a game made from your idea:

1. Get in touch with a heavy hitter in the game making industry and convince him or her that your game is worthwhile. He or she will then set the wheels in motion for your idea to be bought and developed. (This is highly unlikely although it has happened on rare occasions) Companies will occasionally buy video game ideas and keep them for future potential projects.
2. Get in touch with independent developers with game design skills and get them to come on board with your idea. You have the ability to allow them to patch together their time in developing your game. Gamedev.net is a good place to network and find people for this endeavor.
3. Spearhead the development yourself. Learn some basic game making skills and put together a group of people willing to spend time (and money) on your game. You become the evangelist for the game and the Project Manager. (This is the best option if you want to succeed and it answers the question of who is going to do all the work - You!)

Protecting your Idea

You probably have questions about your idea and how to protect it from being stolen. Well, I guess this is a possibility and maybe it has happened but it is unlikely. It goes back to the fact that it takes thousands of hours to take a game from idea to actual game and the number of unique ideas is relatively unlimited but here are some things you can do to get started in protecting yourself.

The Problem of Copyrighting Ideas

Ideas cannot be copyrighted! It sounds funny but it's true. You can research this by checking on the official government copyright website. So, just having an idea means you have very little. If you draw pictures of your game and hopefully develop your idea into a game you can get copyright for those things. In any case here is some help with protecting yourself.

Send yourself a letter!

Put together an exhaustive package of materials about your idea. Include a summary, pictures, drawings and anything else that will describe your idea then seal it in an envelope and mail it to yourself registered mail. When you receive it you sign for it but do not open it. Leave it sealed. This gives you an amount of legal protection that establishes a time line for your idea.

NDA's (Non Disclosure Agreements)

A non-disclosure agreement is a legal contract between two parties. In this case it is between you and the person you want to reveal your idea to. It can be a useful tool that will help you protect your rights. Generally it outlines the confidentiality of your idea and prohibits the other party from using the idea. If you are serious about your idea you should do some research on NDA's and even speak with a lawyer about them. Outside of the United States these agreements are often referred to as Confidentiality Agreements and sometimes they are referred to as Secrecy agreements or Confidential Disclosures (CD's).

Okay let's get started with something solid you can do

No matter which of the three paths you want to travel down there are some things that you can do to get your idea rolling on its path toward becoming a real video game.

1. Write out a very extensive overview of the game. Make it as detailed as possible. And put this in the package you mail to yourself!
2. Draw up pictures and artwork of game scenes, characters, maps and anything else that is unique about the game. In effect you are creating a library of images in the game. Put this in your package too!
3. Write up an executive summary - This is a one or two page summary of the game idea and it outlines the things that make it unique. This is your introduction to people in the gaming industry and it is the first thing you can give them so they get a grasp of your idea (of course you would get an NDA first!)
4. Start your research into the game industry. Hang around forums where developers and game makers chat and start learning about what it takes to make a game. You can make some good contacts and there are hordes of people willing to give you solid advice and some help with your dream. gamedev.net is a great place to start
5. Start learning how to make a video game! It is totally possible for a person with average computer skills to develop a single level of a game or a portion of a game. This can be used as a calling card and example for what the game would be about.

If you want to follow step number five and learn how to make your own game there are lots of resources available that will help you learn how to do it relatively inexpensively. With lots of perseverance you can even create the whole game yourself and have it ready for sale.

The Paragraph you might not want to read

Okay, after going through all of that I am glad to see you are still with me. But, if you are thinking all of this stuff about NDA's, sending letters, writing up summaries and putting together packages just seems like too much work then you can see my point about making a video game from your idea. It takes a lot of work and if you are not going to do the work why should somebody else? If you really think your idea is a great one then I recommend you find the time and the motivation to make it happen! Nothing worthwhile is ever easy and hey it is totally possible that your idea can someday be an actual game. Every game ever made first started out as just an idea.

Get Fit With Various Nintendo Wii Games

Most of us will admit we could use more time for exercising in our life. However, we tend to let other things fill up that time. Why? Well, for most people it has to do with the fact that exercising isn't something they look forward to. Yet you can change all that by having fun. In fact, studies show those who can find a form of exercise they really love will stick with it.

So imagine the thrill of being able to play video games with your family and get your exercise too? It isn't just adults who need to be more active and get themselves moving. Our children need to be doing it as well. With the Nintendo Will games for fitness though you can all have a great time and get some well needed exercise as well.

This is an innovative concept which takes video games to a level where it has never reached before. Initially some were skeptical that this way a new way to market yet another ineffective product. Yet the harshest critics which are the consumers have given it rave reviews. They really love the various games they can play and become an interactive part of.

The Wii Fit program involves using a balance board that is connected to the gaming console. This is an accessory that you will have to buy for your Nintendo Will though. You should be able to get one for about $100. As with any type of fitness program you want to be able to gauge your results too right?

That isn't a problem with the Wii Fit features so make sure you take your time to complete your figures before you get into the program. You will be able to get your weight, determine your level of balance, and even calculate your BMI (Body Mass Index).

If you are interested in setting goals for getting fit, the system can help you do so. It will automatically check those items at regular intervals that you choose. It could be each time you use the Wii Fit, once a week, or even once a month. It all depends on how serious you are about keeping track of both your efforts and your progress.

There are more than 40 different activities that you can take part in too with the Wii Fit. This way you are sure to find at least a few that you really like. Some of them such as yoga are low impact. Others are more of an overall workout due to the aerobic exercises found in the. You can also work on your balance and your strength training.

It is a good idea to mix it up and to take part in a variety of these Wii Fit activities. Not only will you keep from getting bored, you will get a workout that covers all of the areas of your body. You can improve your agility, your flexibility, and even lose weight. The balancing section features many fun activities for you as well.

For example you can try your hand at skiing or snowboarding. You can also take your time to try to balance across a tight rope. Be ready for plenty of laughter along the way too while you try to master these skills. You can practice them alone or even have a competition with other people in your home. It is a good idea to wear shoes for the Wii Fit activities that offer you plenty of support too. This way you aren't going to have tired feet or injure your ankles.

With a Nintendo Wii Fit, you don't have to worry about sitting around and putting on the weight. Instead you can get active and at the same time have a great deal of fun. Of course this shouldn't be the only form of exercise that you or your children are getting. Yet it is a step in the right direction if you are getting very little right now. Change how you view exercise and you can change your overall health.

How to Make a Trading Card Game

Have you ever tried finding a cool card game to play with your friends but realized that it wasn't worth the $200 odd dollars you spent on? Wouldn't it be great if you can make your very own card game with a budget of just $25 or less? Below are some steps you can refer to when making your own trading card game.

1. Think of an idea for your card game. Come up with a basic genre such as Fantasy? Science Friction? Or Old Western?

2. Create a game plan. Establish a good set of rules with exciting objectives. It will be no fun if you are playing card games with no rules or a lot of rules to follow. Different kind of games requires different rules. Some are strict while others are looser. You've got to experiment and see what is right for you. Rules must be established with a good playing field. You also need to know how turns will be won or lost and how to win the game.

3. Think about various types of characters in the cards. There must be definitely wide assortment of characters. Power-ups and bonuses are some of the benefits that can make a card game more interesting. You can also make "rule-bending" cards that are able to change rules. Cards like these may group into types, elements, or classes if the creator (that's you) desires. Last important features of the card is graphic. Not many people will be interested to play card game just by looking at the words on a card. If need be, hire an artist.

4. Remember to come up with a time period or an Era. It would be confusing if the creator of Yu-Gi-Oh called his game "A Time in Egypt" for a time period. If your game happen to have many creatures from different time periods, then this step is irrelevant to you.

5. Now, start brain storming a name for your game. Fantasy? Magic? Modern day or even future? The name must be catchy and original so that people want to play your game. Its quite pointless to name your game Yu-Gi-Oh or Pokemon.

6. Get a program such as MS Paint and a tablet is recommended. Draw out your templates on the program, then write on the card the abilities, color, attack power, name etc... You may also draw the cards by hand, but this is extremely time consuming.

7. Either print out the templates on card or paper, then get your artist to draw on them, or use a tablet to draw them on your laptop.

There you have it. 7 simple steps in getting your first trading card game out without spending tons of money.

Gamefly Vs Gamerang - Which is REALLY the Best Rental Service?

Few will argue that as far as online game rentals go, the two most used services are Gamefly and Gamerang. Both companies have a well established business and a steadily increasing member base. However, which company is best for you? Well it depends on a series of factors. First of all what exactly is it that you look for in a game rental service? Let's go through a few of the most frequently looked at features and compare them side by side.

Game titles

In this category, Gamefly comes out the victor with over 6000 titles and growing. Gamefly has slightly over 4500. Sometimes all that matters however, is which one has the most recent games. In that regard both companies are on top of new releases and most popular games. That being said, some games are appreciated later in their life. However, having 1500 more titles than Gamerang, Gamefly is more likely to have the title you're searching instead of waiting for someone else to finish the game you want while you wait on a queue

Gamefly Wins.

Turn around Time

In the past, Gamerang stole many Gamefly customers because of the simple fact that Gamefly only had one distribution center to Gamerang's four. This meant that turn around times were much greater for Gamefly since the games had to travel much further. For people on the East Coast, Gamefly took the longest because its base was in California. However, seeing this as a growing problem, Gamefly added three distribution centers to tie Gamerang. Gamerang distribution centers are located in California, New Jersey, Oklahoma, and Minnesota. Gamefly has distribution centers in California, Pennsylvania, Texas and Florida. At this point it's a tie and I'm sure more centers will pop up. For now, assume either service will get you a new game in 4-7 days from when you put yours in the mail.

Gamefly and Gamerang Tie.

Price!

One of the most important questions is how much will it cost? This is the current pricing structure for both:

Gamerang Prices:

• 1 game out: $14.95 for the first month and $17.50 each month following.
• 2 game out: $24.95 flat rate per month
• 3 game out: $49.95 (with a $75 refundable deposit)
• 4 game out $59.95 (with a $100 refundable deposit)

Gamefly Prices:

• 1 game out: $8.95 for the first month and $15.95 each month following
• 2 game out: $22.95 flat rate
• 3 game out: $29.95 (with account with 60 days good standing)
• 4 game out: $36.95 (with account with 60 days good standing)

As far as prices go, Gamefly beats Gamerang in every category. Also, Gamefly has a 10 day free trial whereas Gamerang does not. Gamerang does however come with a free one year subscription to Wired Magazine. If that's worth the extra cost, at least that's something to count on.

Gamefly Wins.

Customer Service

I've heard that Gamerang has a longer record in good standing for customer service than gamefly does. Gamefly is however coming up strong with their attempt to curb this complaint. Whether or not Gamefly is up to speed with their customer service now, Gamerang has a larger positive response than Gamefly.

Gamerang wins due to a longer record.

Overall

Gamerang does have a great service to provide but when you line up pro vs pro, Gamely just simply has more. Now with their Gamefly rewards program, customers are rewarded even furthur with incentives based on how long they've been a member. Gamerang did acheive one thing however. When gamefly was a mediocre service, Gamerang came in and stole a lot of the thunder with better service and faster deliveries. This however turned out to make Gamefly even better because now they not only match Gamerang but surpass them by far.

Get a better Gamefly Review or Gamerang Review and start renting today!