The Mole: Atari Slices and Dices, Sony tells us...a little

The word is... - Not much. So far Sony has been
as quiet as Ving Rhames in the basement of the gun shop in Pulp Fiction about most of the PS3's details. That trend continues as Sony was kind enough to announce last Wednesday that it will have 15 games available at launch. This of course leaves us with the question - Which games?!? Maybe sometime in October we'll finally find out about the PS3's online plans.

Microsoft demonstrates online dominance - Last Thursday Microsoft shared with the world that 1.5 million gamers took advantage of the free Xbox Live Gold week that coincided with E3. This just goes to prove that if you attached the word 'free' to something, people will take advantage. Below were the top 10 downloads.

1. Halo 3 Game Trailer (Microsoft Game Studios)
2. Lost Planet: Extreme Condition Free Playable Demo (Capcom)
3. Test Drive Unlimited Free Playable Demo (Atari)
4. MotoGP '06 Free Playable Demo (THQ)
5. X-Men: The Last Stand Pack (20th Century Fox)
6. Gears of War GameTrailer (Microsoft Game Studios)
7. Call of Duty 2: Skirmish Map Pack (Activision)
8. Spiderman 3 Game Trailer (Activision)
9. Fable 2 Trailer (Microsoft Game Studios)
10. Uno Xbox Live Arcade Game (Microsoft Game Studios)

Atari Gets Down - Atari announced last week that beginning June 1st, the prices for all of its current gen games will drop to $20. This includes Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi, Driver: Parallel Lines, Marc Ecko's Getting Up: Contents Under Pressure, and Indigo Prophecy. Expect to see more of this from other developers.

And finally... - This weeks "I could care less award" goes to THQ's The Outfit which has new multiplayer maps you can buy for 500 Microsoft Points. I guess if you've already wasted money on the game, another few dollars won't hurt.

Hunting down McDonald's

Watch out Mayor McCheese, I'm right behind you. That's right, The Gazette gaming blog has passed the ever important 1,500 page view plateau. According to sitemeter.com, this site averages a little over 100 views per week (and none of those are mine). Not too shabby.

That being said, I'm still looking for more reader input and my dream of building a local gaming community is still unrealized. If you have a topic you'd like to discuss, some cheat codes you'd like to share or a cool website you want to give some love to - let me know.

As for a local gaming network, I know I've let this slide a little but lets really get things going. If you send me your gamer tag, I promise to add you to my friends list or if you prefer, I can post a list of gamer tags for anyone interested in playing anyone. Just give me your tag and your favorite online games. Can you imagine how cool it would be to have a 50 - 100 person clan list for Halo 2? Or an All-Colorado unit in Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter? Now that would be fun.

Just to remind everyone, my gamer tag is coloradojoe.

My Tail of Whoa

One of the reasons I gave up on my Playstation 2 (I still have it but I
traded in all my games and its no longer my primary console. I only use it for reviews now.) is because of all of the problems I had with it. Disc read errors, games locking up, DVD's freezing in the middle of a movie - it was enough to make me want to scream! I went through three PS2's (I was Sony loyal to a fault) and my current one isn't the most reliable machine in the world.

I also had an original Xbox which never gave me any problems. So when I bought my Xbox 360 and heard rumors of overheating I didn't care. I didn't have one issue with my original Xbox and with all of the problems I had with my PS2's, I figured I had earned some good karma. Oops. That's what I get for thinking.

About 2 weeks ago my Xbox 360 started acting up - locking up during games, not signing me up for Xbox Live, displaying some kind of weird white and blue checker design on my blades. It was minor at first, just a hiccup. But then things got progressively worse until I couldn't even play anything. I was completely caught off guard by this. I didn't have one problem with it and suddenly it started screwing up on me. I knew it wasn't over heating because it would give me problems when I first turned it on, I knew it had to be something serious.

Thankfully, I also bought a service agreement from Game Crazy when I bought my 360 (Yes I have to buy my own consoles and no, I don't get reimbursed by The Gazette for it). I didn't do this when I bought my first PS2 and learned a very painful lesson. I brought it back to the store and they gave me another one with no hassles. Of course all of my single player loads, burned music and anything else on my hard drive no longer exists. Luckily my achievement points, gamer tag and friends list were not affected - but it still stinks.

While I know there are risks in buying the first generation of a new console (hello PS2 and Xbox 360) I know I would still have bought my 360 on launch day anyway. But there are some things I've come to realize as certainties when it comes to new gaming consoles.

#1 Buy a service agreement - The best way to cover your butt in case you get a bad console. I know the extra $40-$60 seems like a lot after you just plopped down a few hundred for your new system but its worth it. I prefer buying one from the store rather than the manufacturer. With my second PS2, I bought an agreement from Sony and I had to mail the console to them and wait weeks for it to get repaired. With my Xbox 360 I had a new console in 1/2 hour. Besides the time issue, the manufacturer would rather repair a console than send you a new one and chances are you're going to have the same problem anyway. With a local store, you deal with a real person and they're much more helpful - especially if you're a regular.

#2 Don't be blinded by loyalty - One of the first things that popped into my head after getting locked up for the fifth time while trying to play some online Battlefield 2 was "Screw this, I'm trading this hunk of junk in for a PS3". And I know I will, if I have any more problems with the 360. As much as I love all of the cool things the 360 can do and as great as I know Xbox Live is, my prior experience has taught me that there is no such thing as product loyalty when it comes to gaming consoles. I plunked down $400 for an Xbox 360, I expect the damn thing to work everytime. If it doesn't, I'll trade it in and move on. I know for some gamers this is blasphemy. There are Microsoft, Nintendo and Sony fanboys out there that would rather eat a hand grenade then play an opposing system - I know, I used to be one of them. Not anymore. I spend way too much of my hard earned cash to waste it on a system that doesn't deliver what it advertised. Its time a console was loyal to me, not the other way around.

Don't get me wrong, I'm not bashing any console maker, I'm not bent out of shape about my recent 360 issue. I know it happens sometimes and I still think Sony, Nintendo and Microsoft make incredible products. I'm looking forward to the PS3 and the Wii and I still love my 360. I'm a gamerguy and I always will be.

Gamerguy is the key word in that last sentence. I'm all about video games and the enjoyment I get from gaming. No matter what system its on.

Oh yes they call him the cheat...look at that, look at that

For your cheating pleasure.

Far Cry Instincts Predator (Xbox 360) - On the cheats menu, input these codes exactly as they appear:

ImJackCarver ... Refill Health (only during gameplay)
Bloodlust ... Infinite Adrenaline
UnleashHell ... Infinite Ammo
FeralAttack ... Unlock Evolution Story
GiveMeTheMaps ... Unlock All Maps
FeralAttack ... Start with the feral punch


OutRun 2006: Coast 2 Coast (PS2): Cheat: 1000000 OutRun miles - Enter MILESANDMILES when editing a license. Decline when asked to confirm the changes.
Cheat: Complete Everything - Enter ENTIRETY when editing a license. Decline when asked to confirm the changes.

Runescape hints (PC) - Hint: Method Money - One easy way to earn money is to increase mining and crafting. Once you're able to create items, sell them for easy cash.

Hint: Scife - To get a scife in Runescape you must go to Varrock. Go to the place with a bunch of logs. Get your magic high enough to use weaken. Use weaken on the log pile. A level 22 Tree Spirit will appear. If you kill it it will drop a scife and nature runes.

Hint: Colored Text - In RuneScape Classic, if you enter text like this: @red@, then press enter, the next text you enter will be red. You can also do this with other colors, by just putting in the first 3 letters of the word, like blue would be @blu@.

Hint: Easy Money and Experience - Complete rune mysteries quest in either free server or member server. After that you have the ability to go to the rune essence mine so get a pickaxe.
Go to rune essence mine, the Varrock Rune Shop has a bank nearby. Teleport. Mine essence till full. Go to portal. Go to bank deposit essence. Repeat. You now have enough essence to sell them 10K= 500 RUNE ESSNECE, 20K= 1K Rune Essence, 30K= 1.5K Rune Essence.

Hint: Easy Money- At Port Salim and ask the men in blue to take a ship to Karamja. Then go to the first house you see on the right. Talk to the man in black clothes. He will ask you to do a job. Get 10 bananas and put them in the crate to get 30gp. Keep doing this to get a lot of money.

Top 5 Ways Gaming is Better Than...Part 2

There hasn't been a post for the last couple days due to my E3 burnout. Between Tuesday's three posts, watching live coverage of E3 on G4 and all the emails I've been getting from my gaming brothers and sisters - I'm toast. And I didn't even go!

You may also have noticed there was no article/review in Friday's GO! section. Don't worry, it'll be back next week. In the meantime, here's my continuing series on the Top 5 Ways Gaming is Better Than...today its TV.

Top 5 Ways Gaming is Better Than...Television

1. Connectivity - I can play games with friends and family members who live far away. I can't watch TV with them unless I want to rack up huge phone bills.

2. What you want when you want it - I watched the series finale of Smallville Thursday night and now I have to wait 4-5 months to see what happens next. Not an issue with games.

3. Trash Talking - Razzing your friends and putting down jerks online is strongly encouraged. Making fun of the bean poles on America's Next Top Model will have your girlfriend or wife telling you to shut up. Not that this has ever happened to me.

4. Better Programming - There may be a few bad games out there but you don't have to buy them. But when flipping channels Tommy Lee Goes to College, The Swan, The Simple Life 3 and So You Think You Can Dance are on whether you want to watch them or not.

5. More Physical Activity - Sure your still sitting on your butt whether your watching TV or playing games but I know my blood is racing much faster after an intense team slayer match in Halo 2 than it is after I watch The Office.

The Mole: Yet More Microsoft E3 News

Three posts in one day?!? What am I thinking?

Rockstar/Microsoft Agreement - Used to be Xbox owners had to wait months after the PS2 release of a Grand Theft Auto game before they could enjoy it on there own systems. Not anymore, Rockstar and Microsoft announced today (I accidentally skipped over this in my last post, oops) an agreement stating that GTA 4 will be available on the 360 on Day 1 of its world wide release. The yet to be named GTA title is set to come out October 16, 2007. Also included in the agreement will be exclusive downloadable episodic content through Xbox Live.

Halo 3 Video - If you're interested in watching the Halo 3 trailer Bill Gates showed at E3 today, its downloadable at bungie.net.

The Mole: E3 Microsoft Press Conference

Microsoft honcho Bill Gates made his first E3 apperance and headed his company's annual E3 press conference with some bold statements.

Gates stated that the Xbox 360 should have a 10 million unit head start by the time the PS3 comes out this November.

Gates also announced plans for "Live Anywhere", an online gaming system that makes Xbox Live available to PC (with Windows) and Mobile gamers. This would allow PC, Mobile and Xbox console owners to go head-to-head online. He said there will be 160 titles available on the Xbox 360 by the end of the year and stated he expected there to be 6 millon online gamers by this time next year.

Gates was then joined by VP Peter Moore and announced a number of upcoming Xbox 360 and Windows Vista (coming out January 2007) titles.

For the 360, Microsoft showcased “Gears of War”, “Fable 2” and “Forza Motorsport 2”. Ubisoft’s next-generation version of “Tom Clancy’s Splinter Cell Double Agent” will also debut on Xbox 360. In addition, Microsoft Game Studios showed “Alan Wake” and “Shadowrun”, both slated for Xbox 360 and Windows Vista. A "Halo 3" clip was also shown but no real information (release date, new features) was discussed.

For Windows Vista, Microsoft showed off "Crysis”,“Age of Conan: Hyborian Adventures” and “Flight Simulator X”.

For Xbox Live Arcade “Pac-Man,” “Galaga,” “Dig Dug”, “Rally-X”, “Frogger,” “Track & Field", “Contra”, “Super Contra”, “Defender,” “Paperboy,” “Root Beer Tapper”, “Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3”, “Sonic the Hedgehog™ High Speed” and new title “Lumines Live” are future downloadable games.

Microsoft also announced new cross-platform accessories such as the Xbox 360 HD DVD Player, Xbox 360 Wireless Racing Wheel and Xbox 360 Wireless Headset, to be used on Xbox 360 and Windows. The new Xbox Live Vision video camera will allow gamers to customize their gamer picture, send photo messages, and video chat with friends and family over Xbox Live.

The Mole: E3 News Part Tres

Sony had its annual E3 press conference Monday afternoon and finally revealed some information about the long awaited Playstation 3.

The new console will make its debut on November 11 in Japan, and will also be released in North America and Europe on November 17. The system will come in two iterations, the $499 model that comes with a 20GB hard drive and a $599 model that comes with a 60GB hard drive. To compare, the Xbox 360 with a 20GB hard drive sells for $399.

The PS3 controller has been revamped. Sony had given previews of a silver controller shaped like a boomerang, which the public didn't seem to like. The new PS3 motion sensitive controller now looks more like the dual-shock. Like the Xbox 360, a wireless controller for the PS3 is also available.

The Mole: E3 News Part Deux

This comes straight from one of my best EA contacts, Honey Hamilton. And no, I didn't make her name up. Here is EA's descriptions for some of its upcoming titles. Try and read through the propaganda.

Madden NFL 07 - With the exclusive video game license of the NFL and its players, Madden NFL 07 continues to be the #1 football franchise in history with more than 51 million copies sold. In its 17th installment, you control the running game like never before. For the first time ever, step up as the lead blocker to create a hole, and then take control of the tailback and smash through, overpower, or slash away from would-be tacklers as you fight for every yard. Innovative rushing controls give you a game-breaking ground attack featuring all-new jukes, cutbacks, and the distinct running styles of your favorite backs. Developed by EA Tiburon, Madden NFL 07 will launch in August on the Xbox 360, Xbox videogame system from Microsoft, PlayStation2 computer entertainment system, Nintendo GameCube, PSP system, PC, Nintendo DS and Game Boy Advance. Madden NFL 07 is also in development on the PlayStation 3 console and Nintendo Wii.

NCAA Football 07 - Momentum changes everything now college footballs most celebrated videogame turns the tide with NCAA Football 07. Whether battling your biggest rival or playing for the first-ever BCS National Championship Game in Dynasty Mode, success on the field depends on your ability to maintain momentum. Featuring unprecedented graphics that capture every moment in complete detail from the authenticity of the stadiums, mascots, and marching bands, to the true-to-life look and feel of the players on the field. NCAA Football 07 delivers the most realistic college football experience ever. NCAA Football 07 is scheduled to ship in July on the PlayStation 2 console, Xbox, Xbox 360 and the PSP system.

NASCAR 07* (Working title) - Take risks, be rewarded, and become a champion with NASCAR 07* on the PSP system. With all-new Adrenaline Moments, use your skill and instinct during the most intense situations and control the outcome by avoiding disastrous wrecks and flying debris. Maintain your focus on dangerous conditions ahead with the new RaceBreaker feature, which guides you through every treacherous moment of the race. With all-new speed blurring, realistic spark and smoke effects, and camera shakes, get your adrenaline pumping and experience the all-out drama and intensity of 190-mph racing with NASCAR 07.

ARMY OF TWO - You're not alone soldier, not anymore. At E3, EA unveils details of the action title that has been kept top secret for the past year. Developed at EA's boutique production house in Montreal, Canada, the new, original game will redefine strategic TWO man cooperative play when it launches on the PlayStation 3 console and Xbox 360 in 2007. ARMY OF TWO will throw gamers into hot spots ripped from current day headlines where they will utilize unique TWO man strategies and tactics while seamlessly transitioning between playing with intelligent Partner AI (PAI) and a live player. When one man is not enough, it will take an army of two to fight through war, political turmoil and a conspiracy so vast it threatens the entire world.

Battlefield 2142 - The year is 2142, and the dawn of a new Ice age has thrown the world into a panic. The soil not covered by ice can only feed a fraction of the Earth's population. The math is simple and brutal: Some will live, most will die. In Battlefield 2142, players choose to fight for one of two military superpowers in an epic battle for survival. Armed with a devastating arsenal of hi-tech weaponry, including assault rifles, cloaking devices, EMP grenades and sentry guns, players can level the playing field against massive Battle Walkers that control the ground and futuristic aircraft that rule the skies. Massive online battles for up to 64 players drop gamers on the front lines as part of a formal squad, or behind the scenes in Commander Mode to direct the strategic assaults of their team-mates. Battlefield 2142 also introduces an all-new game type for the first time in franchise history: Titan mode, which challenges gamers to control the battlefield and destroy their opponents Titan - a massive flying warship - while defending their own. Battlefield 2142 is developed by Digital Illusions/DICE Sweden and is slated to ship for PC in Fall 2006.

SPORE SPORE takes players on an epic journey from the origin and evolution of life through the development of civilization and eventually into the outer reaches of space. Create a creature, then control every dimension of its evolution from pond scum to galactic god. Experience multiple styles of gameplay as your creature advances through different stages of development. Fight for survival in the wild, develop a sprawling metropolis, trade and war against rival civilizations and explore the outer reaches of the galaxy. Every aspect of the universe from creatures to vehicles, buildings to plants, are created by the player and automatically shared with other players, providing a limitless number of worlds to explore and play. Create, control and explore your universe with SPORE. SPORE is under development for the PC by legendary game designer, Will Wright.

Crysis Crysis is all-new first person shooter from Crytek, the award-winning developers of the critically-acclaimed hit Far Cry. Powered by the revolutionary CryEngine 2, Crysis delivers next-generation PC technology, graphics and gameplay. Set in 2019 after a colossal asteroid crashes to Earth, Crysis begins amidst a tense military standoff between the North Korean and United States governments for control of the impact zone. Amid rising tensions, the asteroid suddenly bursts open revealing a massive alien ship, which begins freezing vast portions of the island and altering the global weather system. The invasion of Earth has begun. Crysis features an epic three-act story of alien invasion where players are able to customize their armor and weapons in real time to confront an ever-changing enemy and a harsh, dynamic environment. Advanced enemy AI employs realistic military tactics, forcing gamers to actively outsmart their opponents rather than simply reacting to them. Crysis is slated to ship for the PC in Winter 2006.

Command & Conquer 3 Tiberium Wars The genre defining Command & Conquer series is back! The epic struggle between the Global Defense Initiative (GDI) and The Brotherhood of NOD continues and the third Tiberium War is about to begin. Welcome back, Commander. Command & Conquer, the groundbreaking series that put the Real-time Strategy (RTS) genre on the map, is returning in full force with Command & Conquer 3 Tiberium Wars. This highly-anticipated next chapter takes the popular series back to its roots in the Tiberium universe and features the fast, fluid gameplay that Command & Conquer is known for and a gripping story that will redefine storytelling in RTS games. Experience a revolution in RTS gaming with a breakthrough single player campaign that rewards you for your gameplay style. Add layers of strategy to your gaming experience by building mobile bases, wielding the power of terrifying Ion Storms on the battlefield, or customizing your armies by combining units. Battle it out online with native voice-over IP, integrated clan support, and new spectator modes that let you play RTS games like a sport. Windows PC, 2007.

The Lord of the Rings, The Battle for Middle-earth II for the Xbox 360 Now command the epic battles of Middle-earth from your living room couch! Take control of huge armies and venture into the heart of Middle-earth to live the battles seen in the blockbuster New Line Cinema films and classic J.R.R. Tolkien literary fiction all in spectacular high-definition. The game boasts a new, intuitive console-specific control scheme that allows novice players to enjoy the games signature Real-time Strategy gameplay while giving expert players the flexibility needed to engage in a deeply complex strategy experience. Directly control hundreds of units in an attempt to defeat enemy armies, conquer new lands, and seal the fate of Middle-earth. As the first game in The Lord of the Rings series to be playable over Xbox LIVE, add to the intensity of the experience and challenge friends online to engage in action-packed real-time battles. Summer 2006.

Superman Returns: The Video Game - challenges players to master Superman's unrivaled powers to save Metropolis. Based on 60 years of DC Comics and the upcoming motion picture, SUPERMAN RETURNS: THE VIDEOGAME creates the ultimate open-world super hero experience. As the Man of Steel, you'll hone your unworldly super powers such as Flight, X-Ray Vision and Freeze Breath to fight villains that only Superman can defeat. SUPERMAN RETURNS: THE VIDEOGAME will be available on Xbox 360, the PlayStation 2 console, Xbox, the PSP system, Nintendo DS and Game Boy Advance.

Def Jam Fight For NY: The Takeover Experience the ultimate hip hop fighting game anywhere you go. Master over 180 new fighting moves and 50 new dirty moves in order to win fights and rise among the ranks of your crew. Create your own fighter and battle through over 40 of the hottest artists and celebrities in Hip Hop including Busta Rhymes, Ludacris, Method Man, Redman, Snoop Dogg, and Xzibit. With a new story, new moves, new venues, and head to head wireless gameplay, Def Jam Fight For NY: The Takeover is the summer's must have title for the PSP system.

EA MOBILE E3 GAME LINE UP
EA Mobile is the leader in wireless entertainment with a slate of games that demonstrate a commitment to quality, innovation and value. The dynamic roster offers something for every mobile phone user puzzle, sports and cutting-edge action. At E3, EA will debut of Orcs & Elves, id Softwares first original intellectual property since Quake, created exclusively for mobile phones by Fountainhead Entertainment. The line up also boasts an impressive slate of EA SPORTS games including 2006 FIFA World Cup, EA SPORTS Fight Night Round 3, Madden NFL 07, NBA LIVE 07, Tiger Woods PGA TOUR 07 and an enhanced version of the popular puzzle game Tetris.

The Mole: E3 News

E3 doesn't start until Monday but my sources have already been
feeding me information. Here's what I've found out.

Bada Bing! - THQ has announced a video game based on the hit HBO TV show The Sopranos, set to be released on the Xbox 360 and PS2 (not PS3) this Fall. Sopranos creator David Chase is heavily involved in creating the storyline which has gamers play as the long lost son of Big Pussy. James Gandolfini is the only member who's involvement has been confirmed but expect many other cast members voices and likenesses to be in the game.

Atari Lineup - Atari announced its lineup of games it will be showcasing at E3: Dragon Ball Z, Test Drive Unlimited, Alone in the Dark, Arthur and Minimoys. Battlezone, HOT PXL, Neverwinter Nights 2, Super DBZ and Dungeons and Dragons.

Sega Lineup - Sega announced its lineup of games as well: Chromehounds, The Club, Full Auto 2: Battlelines, Medieval II: Total War, Phantasy Star Universe, Sega Rally Revo, Sonic Rivals, Sonic the Hedgehog, Super Monkey Ball Adventure, Super Monkey Ball Banana Blitz, Virtua Tennis 3, World Pool Championship 2007 and Yakuza.

Midway Lineup - Here are Midway's featured games at E3: John Woo Presents Stranglehold, Unreal Tournament 2007, Blitz: The League, Mortal Kombat: Armageddon, Spy Hunter: Nowhere to Run, Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar, Rise and Fall: Civilizations at War, Happy Feet, The Ant Bully, The Grim Adventures of Bill and Mandy, MLB Slugfest 2006, Rush, Mortal Kombat: Unchained and NBA Ballers: Rebound.

All of these games are set to be released sometime in 2006.

DS Lite Release Date - The new DS Lite - a smaller, lighter version of the DS that can literally fit in your pocket - will be released in the U.S. June 11th and will sell for about $130. The screens are exactly the same size but the new DS is considerably smaller and lighter. The new backlight system is a significant improvement and it plays all of the games the DS does.

Guitar Hero II - Seven new songs for the upcoming Guitar Hero II, out this fall, have been announced: Reverend Horton Heat - Psychobilly Freakout, KISS - Strutter, Butthole Surfers - Who Was in My Room Last Night, Van Halen - You Really Got Me, Black Sabbath - War Pigs, Rush - YYZ, Drist - Arterial Black.

Superman's Late - EA announced that the Superman Returns video game, which was supposed to be released along with the movie in June has been pushed back to fall when the DVD of Superman Returns will be in stores.

Expect more E3 updates later this week.

The Mole: Seattle is Numero Uno

Sperling's Best Places (you know, those jokers who rate the best and worst places for things like jobs, health, etc.) announced today that Seattle is the number one gaming city in the nation. The survey used the following statistics: number of systems owned per household, number of games purchased, number of game rentals, frequency of online play and number of Big Foot sightings to determine their rankings. Here are the Top 15 cities for gaming in the U.S.

1. Seattle
2. Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minn.
3. Atlanta
4. Detroit
5. Phoenix-Mesa, Ariz.
6. Washington, D.C.
7. St. Louis
8. Boston
9. San Diego
10. Philadelphia
11. Chicago
12. Dallas
13. Houston
14. San Francisco
15. New York

Did you notice no Colorado Springs or Denver? What's up with that? Its time to step up to the plate Colorado. Let no hand be controller free!

Some other interesting gaming facts - According to the Entertainment Software Association, in 2005 the video game industry is growing in popularity among all age groups and both genders. The average age of a gamer is 30, and 19 percent of gamers are older than 50. Men currently dominate the industry; however, the gap is closing, with approximately 55 percent of players being male and approximately 43 percent female. Don't ask what the remaining 2 percent is.

Top 5 Ways Gaming is Better Than...Part 1

As a proud advocate for gaming, I'm starting a new Top 5 series that demonstrates how gaming is better than other forms of media. Don't get me wrong - I love music, movies and TV as much as anybody. Its just that sometimes people don't realize how much fun gaming can be.

Top 5 Ways Gaming is Better Than...Going to the Movies

1. Refunds - If you don't like a game you can either take it back or at least get store credit for something better. If you don't like a movie, don't bother whining to the manager, you're screwed. Although I can think of plenty of movies (Wild Wild West, Catwoman, Batman and Robin) that I would like the 2 hours of my life back that I spent watching them.

2. Better Actors - You will never find David Spade or Rob Schneider doing voice over work in a video game. At least I hope not.

3. No Lines - If you want to play games, just turn on your system and go. If you want to go to the movies get in your car (don't forget to pay $40 to fill it), park 50 yards from the theater (at least on a weekend) and wait in line to buy tickets, get popcorn and go to the bathroom.

4. More Interactive - Talking is discouraged while watching a movie. Trash talking is encouraged while playing video games with friends.

5. Cheaper Snacks - Cost of popcorn, candy and a Coke at the theater - $10. Cost of popcorn, candy and a Coke at home - $2. Cost of pounding your brother in Halo 2 - priceless.

These are my 5 reasons, what are yours?

Cheat Me Once, Cheat Me Twice, Cheat Me Deadly

Here's some great cheat codes for Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion. Unfortunately, these only work for the PC version.

Console menu functions - While in the game, hit the tilde key [~] at any time to bring up the console. With the console open, there are multiple commands that can be used, some that require targeting by selecting an object with the mouse while the console is open.

Click any human or creature, type "kill" - Instant kills
Click a locked door or chest, type "unlock" - Unlocks target object
Without targeting, type "tgm" - God Mode
tfh - Toggle Full Help
player.additem 0000000F 'XXX' -Adds the desired amount of gold. Replace the 'XXX' with the amount wanted.
modpcs skill 100 - adds 100 points to the skill
modpca luck 100 - adds 100 pointsto an attribute (here luck)
player.setlevel 1 - Changes player level to desired number. Use 1-255
advlevel - forces a level up with the levelup screen.
advskill skill # - Forces a skill level up of # levels, example: advskill blade 4
showclassmenu - Allows you to change your class
Showbirthsignmenu - Allows you to change your birthsign
caqs - Completes all quest stages
psb - Add all spells to player
SexChange - Changes your gender
TAI - Toggle AI
player.setAV <#> - Increase (Or decrease) Ability or Attribute
player.additem - Gives the player the given item and amount of the item.
player.setcrimegold 0 - Removes Bounty on your head. NOTE: If being chased by city guards, you must leave the city and go back for it to work on them.
player.payfine - Guards stop attacking you and bounty is paid off.
help - List console commands
lock [1-100] - Lock selected door or container
showfullquestlog [quest id] - Show all log entries for indicated quest
coc testinghall - Teleports player to an area with all objects, monsters, and NPCs in-game.
stopcombat - Immediately stops the combat of the selected friend/foe.

The Mole: Let the Madden jinx go into effect

The latest news and rumors in the world of gaming.

Alexander getting ready for a horrible season - The annual Madden cover boy hex continues. This year's victim? NFL MVP Shaun Alexander. The over/under on his season ending injury? Week 3.

PS2 drops in price, nobody cares - Sony has announced that it has lowered the price of the Playstation 2 by $20 to $129.99 effective immediately. Forgive my lack of enthusiam but to date, over 100 million PS2's have shipped worldwide. Is there anybody on this planet with a TV that doesn't own one? And if they really want to help financially strapped people out, lower it to $50. Which is about the price I can pay for a used one.

Hello Mr. Cipriani - Rockstar will be releasing its PSP hit "Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories" on the Playstation 2 June 6th. If that weren't cool enough, its going to sell for a measly $20. This almost makes up for the news of Rockstars upcoming Table Tennis game.

Joanna Dark update - Microsoft has announced new downloadable content for "Perfect Dark Zero". The updates will load automatically (as usual) when you insert your PDZ disc and include eight new bot personalities and four new multi-player maps. The new bot personas include Judge Bots (attacks the player with the most kills) and Bully Bots (attacks the player with the least kills) among others. No word yet on a Cleaner Bot (runs around picking up bullet casings).

The Top 5 Things You'd See at E3

Its almost that time of year, time for E3, the annual Electronic Entertainment Expo held in Los Angeles. Its a gamers Disneyland. This year events for E3 are running from May 9th - May12th. While I won't get to go this year (I begged and pleaded with my editors to no avail) I did go in 2001 and I know some other gaming journalists who are going to give me all the juicy details for this year. If you're one of the lucky few who get to experience this event, here is what you can expect, no matter what year you go.

1. Seas of People - Every year E3 seems to get bigger and bigger with more and more people dying to attend. The lines are long and the crowds are huge. Get used to doing alot of walking and standing in line.

2. Booth Babes - In a place where the guy to girl ratio is a ridiculously unhealthy 1000:1, Booth Babes can bring a little bit of sanity. These are the beautiful women who hang out at gaming booths and are paid to be nice to you. They even let you take a picture with them so you can prove you can get within 5-feet of a hot babe without puking.

3. Hype - They hype machine at E3 is even worse that at a political convention. Its loud as heck and is the perfect example of style over substance.

4. Parties - It seems like almost any company with any relation to gaming whatsoever has a party during E3. Microsoft, Sony, Nintendo, gaming publishers, gaming magazines, online gaming sites - you name it and they're partying on. There are usually multiple parties a night. They're just as much of a reason to go as E3 itself.

5. Big Announcements - Every year there is some hot new thing everybody is dying to see. Getting a chance to be one of the first ones to see what's going to be the next groundbreaking thing in gaming is a thrill.

So there you have it. If you've been to E3, or know somebody who has gone, share your story.

The Mole: Uh, oh another Superman game.

Superman or Superdud? - Gaming giant EA announced that "Superman Returns: The Videogame" will be released in conjunction with the new movie this summer and will feature the voices of Brandon Routh (Superman/Clark Kent), Kevin Spacey (Lex Luthor), Kate Bosworth (Lois Lane) and Parker Posey (Kitty Kowalski). I just hope this game doesn't stink as much as the N64 Superman game, which still ranks as one of the worst video games of all time.

PGR 3 Speed Pack - A new "Project Gotham Racing 3" Speed Pack is now available for download on Xbox Live Marketplace for 400 Microsoft Points (roughly $5). The pack includes 12 new cars, new Xbox Live Achievement points and other new game play enhancements.

Colton White on the move - "Gun" will get its debut on a handheld system when it is released this summer on the PSP. While no details are certain, it looks like some slight improvments will be made to game play but the portable version will be a little shorter. Unlike the console version, there will be some multi-player options available on the PSP version.

Call of Duty PC update - The Xbox 360 version of "Call of Duty 2" recently received an update and now its the PC versions turn. The release date has not been confirmed but will include anti-cheat software and two new multi-player maps. Expect it within the next 3 weeks.

All the Cheats are Brown and the Sky is Gray

These games just came out last week, yet here I am, digging up cheats for you. That's what I'm talkin' 'bout! (Yes, I have way too much free time.)

Tomb Raider: Legend (Xbox 360) - While in game, pull and hold the Left Trigger. These codes can only be used after they are unlocked.

Hold LB: and press RT, B, X, LT, X, A - Infinite Shotgun Ammo
Hold LB: and press B, Y, LT, RT, A, B - Infinite SMG Ammo
Hold LT: and press A, RT, Y, RT, X, LB - Bulletproof
Hold LB: and press Y, A, B, RT, Y, LT - Wield Excalibur
Hold LB: and press A, RT, B, RT, LT, X - Wield Soul Reaver
Hold LB: and press LT, Y, RT, B, LT, X - Infinite Grenade Launcher Ammo
Hold LB: and press A, B, A, LT, X, Y - Infinite Assault Rifle Ammo
Hold LT then press Y + A + Y +X + LB + B - One Shot Kill
While holding LT, press: LB-A-B-A-Y-RT - Textureless Mode
While holding LT, press: X-B-A-LB-RT-Y - Draw Enemy Health

Battlefield 2: Modern Combat (Xbox 360) - In the middle of gameplay in the campaign mode.

Hold the left and right bumper buttons and press right, right, down, up, left, left on the D-Pad - Unlocks all Weapons

The Top 5 Things Gaming Could Live Without

While I'm the first to admit its a good time to be a gamer (I even wrote an article on it), there are plenty of things in the gaming world that could either be improved or just eliminated completely. So today I rid myself of my normal sunshine and roses gaming outlook and share my Top 5 things gaming could live without.

1. Sports Game Price Gouging - Every year our favorites sports titles come out with a new version of last years model, with updated rosters seemingly the only difference. I feed into this machine by making sure I get my copy of Madden the first day its released - but that doesn't mean I'm happy about it. Gaming companies (this means you EA) should sell their sports games for about $10-$15 less than other new releases.

2. Subscription Fees - If I buy a game, why should I have to pay anything else to play the complete version of it. Star Wars Galaxies is a great example of this. A $15 monthly fee to play a game I already bought? That's nuts.

3. Console Exclusivity - Any game thats made should be available on every system. When I only owned a PS2, I missed out on Halo. When I bought an Xbox, I had to wait a year to own GTA: San Andreas. It was only available on the PS2 at the time. Its torture.

4. Rude Online Gamers - There are way too many online gamers who feel free to curse up a storm or spew homophobic and racist diatribes. I guess the anonymity of playing online is just too great of a temptation for some people. I can't stand these guys.

5. Gamer Bashing - Gamers, despite the fact that the vast majority of us are intelligent, good looking folk, have a bad rep. For some reason we're sterotyped as nerds obsessed with only one thing - games. While there is certainly some truth to this, I hate the fact that identifying myself as a gamer automatically stereotypes me as someone with no other interests but to hold a controller for 12 hours a day. People who adore TV and Music as much as the typical gamer cares for video games don't get this much grief.

Its time to embrace and love the gamer! There are many more of us out there than you think, we just keep our dirty little secret to ourselves...in shame. I have news for you, gamers don't have a typical look, we could be anybody. Sure, there are nerdy gamers out there who wear Bungie shirts and don't wash their hair (I'm referring to myself on weekends). But there are also gamers who are accountants, lawyers, teachers and professional athletes. So be careful what you say about us, you just might be talking to a gamer.

Dishonorable Mention - Most movie based games, condescending video game store employees, Grand Theft Auto bashing (people who've never played this game take it way too seriously), Halo bashing, the incomparable Roger Ebert (for saying gaming is not an art form).

Cheat Like An Egyptian

Anytime I can get my man David Ortiz (the cover boy for MLB 06: The Show) on the blog is a good thing. Here are this weeks cheat codes.

MLB 06: The Show (PS2) - Codes must be entered in the Menu, the controller will vibrate to confirm the correct code entry.

All Uniforms - Press Up, Down, Right, Left, Down, Right, Down, Up at the main menu.

All Teams - Press Left, Right(2), Down(2), Left, Up(2) at the main menu.

All Players - Press Left, Up, Left, Right, Down, Right, Left, Up at the main menu.

All Stadiums - Press Down, Up, Left, Right, Up, Right, Up, Down at the main menu.

Midnight Club 3: Dub Edition (PS2) - From main menu, select Options, then select Cheats

dfens - Special move Agro
getheadl - Bunny ears
roadtrip - Unlock all cities
ontheroad - No damage
allin - Special move Zone
R04r - Special move Roar
getheadj - Yelloew Smile
getheadk - Pumpkin Heads
haveyouseenthisboy - chrome body
trythisathome - flaming head
getheadm - snowman head
getheadn - skull head
crosscountry - All cities unlocked in arcade mode
urbansprawl - Faster pedestrians/All cities in arcade mode
hyperagro - Increase car mass in arcade mode

The Mole - You want me to pay how much for a PS3?

Brother can you spare 73,500 dimes? - Bust open that piggy bank, cash in those savings bonds and check your sofa for loose change - the PS3 is going to set you back, alot.

According to reports released by a radio interview on French radio station Europe 1, Sony Computer Entertainment France (that's right we're getting breaking gaming news from the French) and VP of Sony Computer Entertainment Europe's George Fornay said that the PlayStation 3 would retail in Europe in the range of €499 to €599.

This adds up to be between $611 to $735 in US dollars. Read that again $611 - $735. While there hasn't been any confirmation on the U.S. retail price, the price points between Europe and the States are usually very similar. Hopefully we'll find out more at E3 next month.

Gentlemen, start your Xbox 360's - Would you like to visit the Lamborghini factory in Italy? All you have to do is win the Xbox Live Project Gotham Racing 3 online tournament. Registration is open now and competition starts April 17th. The tournament final is at the Lamborghini factory in Sant' Agata Bolognese, Italy. To sign up, go to www.pgr3tournament.com.

Doctor, do you have a cure for my Achievement Addiction? - If you're one of those Xbox 360 nuts who works hard for those beautiful, ego inflating achievement points in 360 games (I'm not bragging but I have over 5000), I have good news for you. The website www.achieve360points.com was made for you. This site offers a complete list of 360 games and the achievements for each one.

Mario fans rejoice! - Nintendo finally announced a release date for The New Super Mario Bros on the DS. Put on your red hat and trim your mustache, make sure you're in front of your favorite gaming store May 16th.

The Top 5 Xbox 360 Games

Now that Microsoft was kind enough to double its production of Xbox 360's, those of you who have your shiny new systems might be wondering what games to buy. Before you spend a dime, check out this list of the best games for your next-gen system. And don't forget to pick up Halo 2 as well. It should always be in the rotation.

1. Call of Duty 2 - Beautiful graphics, a great setting and fun game play make this shooter a blast. The newly improved online play bumps this game to the top of my list.

2. Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter - That's right, two third-person shooters are in the top 2 but for different reasons. The weapons at your disposal and the power you wield in G.R.A.W. is just plain exciting. The single player can be outright redonkulous (Yes, I meant to spell it that way) but I enjoy the challenge.

3. Project Gotham Racing 3 - Photo-realistic cars, controls that are just difficult enough and lots of multi-player action. Every new system has a great racer and this one is it for the 360.

4. Fight Night Round 3 - There is no better game to play with a friend. Its like virtual rock 'em sock 'em robots. You'll both be worn out after a fight.

5. Madden - The most realistic looking (key word: looking) sports sim ever. Except for Jake Plummer, he looks like crap.

Games to look forward to in 2006: The Godfather (After playing the PS2 version, I know this one will be awesome), Saints Row (GTA killer or GTA wannabe?), Tomb Raider: Legend (Can Lara make a comeback?) and Scarface (Say hello to my little friend!)

These are my top 5. If you're an Xbox 360 gamer, share yours.

The Mole: Pikachu hits double digits

Pikachu turns 10 - Much like Barney before him and The Wiggles now, Pikachu (that annoying Pokemon that blasted lightning and repeated his name over and over) was at one time the most annoying kids obsession on the planet. Pokemon recently turned 10 years old?!? I felt about 60 after finding that out. The Pokemon franchise, currently worth $25 billion, proves that sometimes really dumb ideas can make money.

So long Playstation One - Sony has finally yanked the cord on PlayStation One production. The console was originally launched in Japan in December 1994, selling more than 100 million units worldwide. Personally, I'm amazed these were still being made. And who was buying them?

PSP movie sales stink - Before you rush out and buy "Big Mommas House 2" for your PSP, you might want to know that the future of UMD movies looks bleak. According to an article in the "Hollywood Reporter", UMD movie sales are so poor, many companies (Universal and Paramount included) are getting out of the UMD business.

Evidently the gamers purchasing the PSP are looking at it as only a gaming system, not something to watch movies on. How will this effect the future of the PSP? It's possible future PSP models will be enabled with TV connectivity or possibly even Blu-ray discs. We'll have to wait and see.

Leave the guns, take the cheats

Here are the most recent cheats I could get my hands on.

The Godfather - PC
Go to the Pause Menu (by pressing ESC) and, using the keyboard, type:
corleone - Full Health
stracci - Full Ammo
cuneo - $5000
tattaglia - Unlock Movies

The Godfather - PS2
Enter while game is paused.
Circle Square Circle Square Square L3 - Unlocks all movies
square,circle,square,square,circle,L3 - $5,000
circle,left,circle,right,square,R3 - Full Ammo
left,square,right,circle,right,L3 - Full Health

The Godfather - Xbox
In the menu screen where you can click on viewing the "Movies" enter the following codes
Y,X,Y,X,X Click Left Analog Stick - Unlocks All Movies
left, x, right, y, right, click left analog stick - Full health
Y, left, y, right, x, click right analog stick - Full ammo
X,Y,X,X,Y, click left analog stick - $5000

Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter - Xbox 360
Press start during the game and while on the pause menu hold the back button, Left Trigger, and Right trigger and enter the password.
LB, LB, RB, X, RB, Y - Put your life at 100%
RB, RB, LB, X, LB, Y - Unlimited Ammo
X, X, Y, RB, Y, LB - Team Invincible
Y, Y, X, RB, X, LB - Scott Mitchell Invincible
Y, RB, Y, RB, X (Input on the Mission Select Screen) - All Levels

The Mole: Bill Cowher, Supermodel

The first sign of the Apocolypse is upon us - Pittsburgh Steelers coach Sgt. Slaughter...er...I mean Bill Cowher is now a model. Thankfully, he's keeping all of his clothes on.

On Wednesday, EA Sports announced that the Super Bowl winning coach will be the cover boy for the new football game "NFL Head Coach" to be released June 20th.

I'm not sure which sounds worse, a game based on coaching or looking at one of the most hideous coaches in the NFL every time I go to put my game disc in.

Lets see... a game where your primary duties include pacing a sideline, yelling (and in Cowhers case, spitting while yelling), and watching film for 12 hours a day while ignoring your wife and kids for personal glory. I know the NFL is the country's number one sport but can a game based on being a head coach really be that enthralling? What's next, "NHL Coach"? "NBA Coach", "Little League T-Ball Coach"?

I have some better ideas. There's definetely a market for a "Crazy Tennis Dad" or "Obsessive Compulsive Figure Skating Mom" so why not make those as well.

To be honest, I'm sure this game will be alot better than I think. Its made by EA and those guys know what they're doing. At least I hope they do this time.

The Mole

Here are the latest rumors and trends.

Take that Apple! - According to a report in The Mercury News, Microsoft is working on a portable hand held that plays games, music and video that will be released some time in 2007. The team creating the new device is made up of a number of members who worked on the Xbox 360. Details are scant (to non-existent) but it looks like Microsoft is looking to compete with Sony, Nintendo and Apple - especially since Apple is working on the iGame (check earlier posts).

Hubba Hubba - Laura Croft makes her return April 11th with the release of "Tomb Raider Legend" on Xbox, Xbox 360, PS2 and the PC. This is the seventh title in the series that started in 1996.

Zelda Returnz - Late last week Nintendo announced a new Zelda game for the DS, "Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass". The game is set to be released later this year.

It's About Time - Microsoft recently announced it has finally significantly increased its production of Xbox 360 consoles. Up two to three times as many consoles will now be produced. Microsoft has also announced additional content, achievements and maps (through Xbox Live) in "Call of Duty 2", "Kameo", "Project Gotham Racing 3" and "Perfect Dark Zero".

It appears that now that the PS3 release date has been announced, Microsoft wants to get as big a head start in the next-gen gaming war as they can.

Hello...is there anybody in there...just nod if you can here me...are there any gamers home?

I'm still looking to get a group of local gamers (and by local, I mean anybody who reads this blog) together for some online play. I'm always on the look out for some friendly competition or some people to help me gang up on the helpless masses. I play on an Xbox 360, so I'm limited to people who have Xbox Live. I do have a PS2 but I don't have online service for it. If you're interested, send me a friend invite. My gamer tag is coloradojoe. Below is a list of games that I play online, some more frequently than others.

Xbox - Halo, Knights of the Old Republic, but mostly Halo 2 (please don't send a clan invite, I'm already an overlord in my son's clan)

Xbox 360 - Project Gotham Racing 3, Call of Duty 2, Fight Night Round 3, Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter, Perfect Dark Zero

P.S. Even if you don't play the same games I have listed, or if you play online with a DS or PS2, list your info in the comments section of this post. Hopefully some other gamers will see it and link up with you.

Best. Top 5. Ever.

The Simpsons, one of the greatest TV shows ever, has spawned a number of video games. Playing as one of pop cultures biggest icons started in 1991 with The Simpsons arcade game by Konami. If you've ever been to an arcade (or a Chuck E. Cheese) you're sure to have seen it. For the most part, Simpsons games have varied from craptacular ("Krustys Super Fun House") to passable ("The Simpsons: Hit and Run").

So with this poor gaming history, why would anyone want to play a Simpsons based game? Because they offer some of the funniest quotes in TV history and guys are quote machines. We're like parrots and we want to hear those famous Simpsons catch phrases if we're going to invest in their game. Just in case Matt Groening is reading this, here are the quotes I'd most like to hear in the next Simpsons game. Let me know your favorites.

Top 5 Homer Simpson Quotes I'd Like to See in the Next Simpsons Video Game

1. I believe children are the future... unless we stop them now!

2. Now that happy moment between the time the lie is told and when it is found out.

3. Stealing? How could you?! Haven’t you learned anything from that guy who gives those sermons at church? Captain What’s-his-name? We live in a society of laws. Why do you think I took you to all those Police Academy movies? For fun? Well, I didn’t hear anybody laughin’, did you?

4. Good things don't end in 'eum,' they end in 'mania'...or 'teria'.

5. You tried and you failed miserably. The lesson is never try.

The Mole

I can't think of any more euphemisms for the latest gaming news so from now on any new gaming rumors will be under the heading "The Mole". Try not to think of that horrible D-list celebrity reality show when you see it.

Turn that Xbox 360 into a home version VH1 - Last Thursday Microsoft announced an agreement with Epic records that makes music videos available to Xbox 360 owners. Every month for the next year, 12 "up and coming artists" will be featured, one new artist each month. This month British singer Natasha Bedingfield (who is taking America by storm according to Microsoft) is the artist of the month. There are no fees for this new feature.

Stan Lee and the Master Chief team up - Bungie and Marvel comics have joined forces to develop a 128 page "Halo" novel (essentially a very long comic book) to be released July of this year. Expect the Master Chief cookbook, "My favorite recipes, Covenant style" to be released later this year.

Surprise! PS3 release delayed until early November - In a move surprising no one, Sony announced the Playstation 3 has been pushed back to an early November release instead of this Spring. Sony also announced their online service, tentatively called the Playstation Network Platform, will have features almost identical to Xbox Live. Surprisingly, Sony stated their base online service will be free. No details were given if there would be a premium service that will require a fee.

Sony PSP price slashing - Sony announced the PSP will drop in price from $250 to $200 at the end of March. I'm sure hoping you didn't buy one recently. The company also announced plans for two new PSP peripherals to be available before the end of the year - a camera and a USB GPS receiver that will work with certain games. Sounds pretty cool.

I told you so! - This morning Microsoft announced it has made its Xbox Live Server Platform available to game developers and publishers. This will allow them more creative control of their titles features available online. Now developers can make changes and add new modes to the online experience. This can also lead to new content and even possibly (here's the 'I told you so' part) entire games being downloaded from Xbox Live. Not that I'm bragging (yes I am) but I called this months ago. See, I know what I'm talking about. At least half of the time.

Clowns to the left of me, jokers to the right, here I am stuck in the middle with Cheats

Time for this weeks set of cheat codes, this time from the very popular PSP game "Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories".


UP, SQUARE, SQUARE, DOWN, LEFT, SQUARE, SQUARE, RIGHT - Weapon set 1
UP, CIRCLE, CIRCLE, DOWN, LEFT, CIRCLE, CIRCLE, RIGHT - Weapon set 2
UP, X, X, DOWN, LEFT, X, X, RIGHT - Weapon set 3
L1, R1, TRIANGLE, L1, R1, CIRCLE, L1, R1 - Money Cheat ($250,000)
L1, R1, CIRCLE, L1, R1, X, L1, R1 - Full Armor (Blue Bar)
L1, R1, X, L1, R1, SQUARE, L1, R1 - Full Health (Red Bar)
CIRCLE, X, DOWN, CIRCLE, X, UP, L1, L1 - Cars Drive On Water
L1, L1, LEFT, L1, L1, RIGHT, TRIANGLE, CIRCLE - Spawn Rhino
L1, L1, LEFT, L1, L1, RIGHT, CIRCLE, X - Faster Clock
L1, L1, LEFT, L1, L1, RIGHT, X, SQUARE - Destroy All Cars
L1, L1, R1, L1, L1, R1, LEFT, SQUARE - Peds Riot
L1, L1, R1, L1, L1, R1, UP, TRIANGLE - Peds Attack You
R1, R1, L1, R1, R1, L1, RIGHT, CIRCLE - Peds Have Weapons
L1, UP, LEFT, R1, TRIANGLE, CIRCLE, DOWN, X - Perfect Traction
TRIANGLE, TRIANGLE, R1, SQUARE, SQUARE, L1, X, X - All Green Lights
DOWN, DOWN, DOWN, CIRCLE, CIRCLE, X, L1, R1 - Bobble Head World
DOWN, DOWN, DOWN, X, X, SQUARE, R1, L1 - Upside Down Gameplay
CIRCLE, RIGHT, X, UP, RIGHT, X, L1, SQUARE - Change Bike Tire Size
TRIANGLE, R1, L1, DOWN, DOWN, R1, R1, TRIANGLE - All Vehicles Chrome Plated
UP, UP, UP, TRIANGLE, TRIANGLE, CIRCLE, L1, R1 - Unlock multiplayer skins

An offer you can't refuse

I'm as giddy as a boy on Christmas morning, The Godfather video game will be released March 21st on the PS2, Xbox and PC. It will be released later this year on the Xbox 360 and the Sony PSP. The game should be great!

This of course makes me ask the question - what other movies would make great video games. Here are my top 5 suggestions. Share some of your ideas.

1. Monty Python and the Holy Grail - Take on the Black Knight ("Its just a fleshwound!"), defeat the dreaded killer rabbit and storm Castle Aaaargh.

2. Caddyshack - This would be a great golf sim. A mix of "Tiger Woods" and "Hot Shots" golf. Sound effects could include "nananananana" when you put and "Its in the hole!" when you make a hole in one.

3. Princess Bride - Giants, monsters, miracles, a six fingered man - whats not to like about this? You could play the game as three characters. Swordsman Inigo, giant Fezzig and the man in black, Wesley.

4. Pulp Fiction - This would be a strange shooter with a goofy storyline. Kind of like a very twisted "Max Payne". An rated M game to be sure.

5. Hoosiers - A basketball sim with motivational clips from Gene Hackman taken from the movie would be great. Cut Ollie from the team and let Jimmy Chitwood single handedly beat every opponent you face.

Nose to the Grindstone

I have no idea how the phrase "nose to the grindstone" came about. It sounds painful. Either way, here's the newest news from the gaming world that my network of spies have to offer.

Rockstar announces...table tennis? - The bad boys of the gaming industry, Rockstar have announced a Table Tennis game for the Xbox 360 to be released in May. No word on whether Forrest Gump is an unlockable player.

Verizon to offer free Xbox Live, two people jump for joy - From March 31 through April 2 Verizon will be providing 72 hours of free online play to Xbox 360 owners. Yawn...forgive me if I'm underwhelmed but I guarantee that almost all of the people who managed to snipe an 360 with a hard drive (its required for online play) already have Xbox Live. Verizon will end up spending a whopping $150 on that weekend. If Verizon really wanted to make an impression, they'd get rid of that annoying "can you hear me now?" guy and replace him with Jennifer Garner or Angelina Jolie.

Get your mullet and leather pants ready - RedOctane CEO Kelly Sumner said that the publisher is planning "five or six" Guitar Hero titles by mid 2007. Mr. Sumner, may I make a suggestion for some tracks to put on the sequel? How about a few Monkees or Partridge Family hits? That way those of us who aren't very coordinated can pretend to play the guitar controller and still look like a stud.

Top 5 Best Uses of Celebrity Voices in Video Games

It used to be rare to find a celebrity attached to a video game. Not any more. Now they even make them (see Vin Diesel).

But a celebrity voice does not a great game make. Christopher Walken has one of best and most recognizable voices in Hollywood, but it didn't make "True Crime" any better. Here are my Top 5 best uses of celebrity voices in video games.

1. Phil Hartman ("Blasto") - Phil Hartman was hilarious! Doing voices for "The Simpsons" was a natural segue into video games. He could read a cook book and I'd think it was funny. I don't know why more comedians don't do this.

2. Ray Liotta (Tommy Vercetti in "GTA: Vice City") - Another case of an actor making a perfect transition from his on-screen persona ("Goodfellas") to the video game world. The writing was superb and he was up to the challenge.

3. Michael Ironside (Sam Fischer in "Splinter Cell") - Jester from "Top Gun" has the voice and face (Have you seen this guy? He's a troll.) for video games. If I were his agent, I'd have him doing car commercials.

4. Ian McKellan (Gandalf in "Lord of the Rings: Return of the King")- The white wizard has a soothing, hypnotic voice. He just sounds like he knows what he's talking about.

5. James Woods (Mike Toreno in "GTA: San Andreas") - I hate to be a GTA hack but lets be honest, who's handled celeb voices better than Rockstar? That and Woods' performance was so slimy, my TV screen needed to be wiped off after every scene he was in.

Hey brother can you spare a cheat?

Last week I gave out some "GTA: San Andreas" cheats for the PS2. Here are just a few Xbox codes to make your life easier.

Enter these in game. (Use the D-Pad, not the analog stick). You will see the message, Cheat Activated, if entered properly.

Right, R Trigger, Up, White, White, Left, R Trigger, L Trigger, R Trigger, R Trigger - Faster Cars
Black, White, R Trigger, L Trigger, White, Black, X, Y, B, Y, White, L Trigger -Destroy All Cars
Up, A, Y, A, Y, A, X, Black, Right - Max Stamina
Black, R Trigger, A, Y, A, Y, Up, Down - Pedestrians have weapons
Right, Black, B, R Trigger, White, X, R Trigger, Black - Cars Drive on Water
A, A, X, R Trigger, L Trigger, A, Down, Left, A - Andrenaline Mode
X, Black, Down, Down, Left, Down, Left, Left, White, A - Cars Fly Away When Hit
X, Down, White, Up, L Trigger, B, Up, A, Left - Cars Can Fly
White, Up, R Trigger, R Trigger, Left, R Trigger, R Trigger, Black, Right, Down - No Pedestrians or Cops (Gan Riots)
Left, Right, L Trigger, White, R Trigger, Black, Up, Down, Left, Right - Have Jetpack
Left, Right, L Trigger, White, R Trigger, Black, Black, Up, Down, Right, L Trigger - Parachute
Y, R Trigger, R Trigger, Left, R Trigger, L Trigger, Black, L Trigger - Perfect Handling in Vehicles
Black, B, Up, L Trigger, Right, R Trigger, Right, Up, X, Y - Flying Boats
R Trigger, R Trigger, B, Black, Up, Down, Up, Down, Up, Down - Lower Wanted Level
L Trigger, R Trigger, Y, DOWN, Black, A, L Trigger, UP, White, White, L Trigger, L Trigger - Max Respect
X, White, R Trigger, Y, UP, X, White, UP, A - Never Hungry
Y, Up ,Up, Left, Right, X, B, Right - Skinny
Y, Up, Up, Left, Right, X, B, Left - Max Muscle
Y, Up ,Up, Left, Right, X, B, Down - Max Fat
X, White, A, R Trigger, White, White, LEFT, R Trigger, RIGHT, L Trigger, L Trigger, L Trigger - Max Vehicle Stats
Y, X, B, B, X, B, B, L Trigger, White, White, R Trigger, Black - Super Bike Jumps
Up, Up, Y, Y, Up, Up, Left, Right, X, Black, Black - Super Jumps
L Trigger, R Trigger, X, R Trigger, LEFT, Black, R Trigger, LEFT, X, DOWN, L Trigger, L Trigger - Infinite Ammo
L Trigger, White, White, Up, Down, Down, Up, R Trigger, Black, Black - All Cars have Tank Properties.
Right, R Trigger, Up, White, White, Left, R Trigger, L Trigger, R Trigger, R Trigger - Traffic Lights Stay Green

Look out PSP and DS, here comes The iGame

Later this year Apple, the company that revolutionized portable music with the iPod, is releasing iGame - a new portable gaming device. The official release date hasn't been set but you will see plenty of pics and details during E3, the Electronic Entertainment Expo, in May.

I don't have too much information but here's what I know so far. It will have a hard drive that will store pictures, music, videos and games - no game cartridges. To get games a system similar to iTunes will be used to download games on iGame. The design I saw looked pretty basic. No analog stick and no touch screen.

Here are the games rumored to be available for iGame at launch.

Call of Duty3, Casino Royale, Madden NFL 07, Splinter Cell Essentials 2, Tak and the Power of JuJu on the Go, WarCraft Armies, Final Fantasy II, and X-Men 3

iPod Update for Xbox 360

Finally there's a download that allows Xbox 360 users to play their iPod on their systems. I don't know about anyone else out there but this has bugged me since I've had it. For copywrite reasons, the 360 will not recognize songs purchased on iTunes. Because I had purchased iTunes songs mixed with songs transferred from CD's on my iPod, my 360 wouldn't recognize any music at all. Sure I could look at the pictures from my Nano in a slide show but I couldn't play my music during games.

Thankfully that's now been corrected. Make sure to check out the Xbox Live Marketplace and find the free download that will allow you to play all of your non-iTunes purchased songs on your 360. Maybe sometime soon, all songs will be accessible.

In the meantime, I'm looking forward to driving around Vegas in "Project Gotham Racing 3" while jamming out to "Van Halen".

Top 5 Worst Game Ideas Ever

My love affair with Top 5 Lists continues with "The Top 5 Worst Game Ideas Ever". What's the difference between this and "The Worst Games Ever"? Good question. The worst ideas should have never been thought of in the first place, they make gamers believe it was made on a dare. The worst games just suck. Here are my top 5. Let me know what your top 5 are.

1. Britney's Dance Beat (2002) - A rhythm game based on the musical stylings of Britney Spears?!? At the time this came out, you could stick Brit's image on a bag of trash and someone would buy it. Of course, that doesn't make it right.

2. Shaq Fu (1994) - Pro basketball star Shaquille O'Neill in a Kung Fu fighting game? At least he doesn't rap in it. Oh wait, yes he does.

3. Army Men (1998) - A video game where you play as plastic soldiers. Were the developers aware of how boring these were to play with in real life?

4. Revolution X (1994) - Hmm...let me see if I understand this concept. Rock band Aerosmith is overthrowing an oppressive government with music as their weapon? Where do I sign up?

5. E.T. (1982) - The title character is small, slow, knows only four words ('Elliott', 'home', 'Reece's Pieces') and doesn't carry a lightsaber. Proof that a good movie doesn't necessarily translate into a good video game concept. I love the movie "Casablanca" but I don't think it'd be a great game.

The Skinny, The Word on the Street, Scuttlebutt

I take advantage of any time I can use the word scuttlebutt. Here's the latest word on the gaming world street.

New Games Added to Xbox Live Arcade - I've written about this great feature before, so I'd like to thank game developer Midway for making me look like Nostradamus. Soon to be added to the great library of classic titles on Xbox Live Aracade are: "Paperboy", "Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3", "Defender" and "Cyberball". I'm particularly excited about "Cyberball", one of my all time favorite arcade games - right up there with "Ms. Pac Man" and "Karate Champ". The release dates and prices haven't been confirmed but since most Xbox Live Arcade games are free or dirt cheap (around $5), I'd expect them to be very affordable.

Best of Platinum Hits - Most gamers are familiar with Platinum Hits - best selling, slightly older, video games offered for $20. Now Microsoft is announcing its Best of Platinum Hits, this time selling for only $10. Its a great way to pick up some classic games on the cheap. Here are the first wave of titles, most of them available this month.

Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind (Bethesda Softworks)• Enter the Matrix (Atari)• Fuzion Frenzy (Microsoft Game Studios)• Project Gotham Racing 2 (Microsoft Game Studios)• Shrek 2 (Activision)• Soul Calibur II (Namco)• Tom Clancy's Ghost Recon (Ubisoft)• Tom Clancy's Ghost Recon: Island Thunder (Ubisoft)• Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six 3(Ubisoft)• Tom Clancy’s Splinter Cell Pandora Tomorrow (Ubisoft)• Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell (Ubisoft)• Tony Hawk’s Underground (Activision)• Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 4 (Activision)• True Crimes: Streets of LA (Activision)• MechAssault (Microsoft Game Studios)• Counterstrike (Microsoft Game Studios)

Blu-ray vs. HD-DVD - The long awaited battle between these two new home movie formats is about to get under way. From May through July, Lionsgate will release 10 movies (Punisher, Saw, Terminator 2, Total Recall, Stargate, Dune, The Devils Rejects, Crash, Lord of War, Reservoir Dogs) on the Blu-ray format. They'll range in price from $29.99-$39.99. I'm sure HD-DVD movies will cost about the same.

I know what you're thinking, "$40 for a movie? Are they crazy?". The answer is yes. At least for now. Don't rush out and get one of these new players, the price will come down just like it did when CD and DVD players became commonplace. Besides that, Blu-ray and HD-DVD movies are only worthwhile if you have the appropriate system to play them on - in other words, a state of the art home entertainment system. So don't panic. The good news is, this should drop the price of DVD's pretty soon.

But how does this effect gamers? Good question. Sony and Microsoft have taken opposite sides to the Blu-ray/HD-DVD battle. Sony (PS2) is betting on Blu-ray, Microsoft (Xbox) on HD-DVD. One of them is wagering on the wrong team. This could end up as bad as the Beta/VHS war in the 80's. Right now, Blu-ray has more studios signed up with them. Whether or not that means anything is still up in the air. We'll all just have to wait and see.

Xbox 360 Revisited, Top 5 List for Bill Gates

In December I wrote a two-part review on 10 Xbox 360 games and last month a review of the 360 console itself. Having spent even more time with the 360, I'm discovering I was dead on about some things and just a little bit off about others. Here's where I was right and where I was...wr...wr...wr...not quite right.

Misjudged - The 360 launch lineup. Looking back on it now, I'd definitely downgrade a few games. I originally gave "Call of Duty 2" and "Perfect Dark Zero" A-'s. Now they would both be solid B's. "Duty's" (ha! I said duty!) single player mode is spectacular, its online play stinks. For "Zero" its the other way around. Great online play, almost rivaling "Halo 2", but the single player is a dud. How did I miss this? Lets call it "Launch Delirium" and leave it at that.

Things haven't gotten better since November. Sure "Fight Night 3" just came out and looks promising but that's about it. When I spend more time playing "Halo 2" and "San Andreas" and my system is only 3 months old, it makes me worry.

Misjudged - The Graphics Jump. Nobody really should have been expecting a PS1 to PS2 type of improvement with the 360. Its too big of a leap and it won't happen when the PS3 comes out either(If it ever does, give us a release date Sony!). But for all the bucks I'm throwing at my new Xbox, I expect a small graphic improvement in every game. Sure, there a few ("PGR3", "Kameo", "Madden") that offer some killer graphics - but its sporadic. If I'm paying $10 extra, make it worth my while.

Misjudged - The Cost. Every time a new system launches, its going to cost you. You have to get all new controllers, a new console, a few accessories, new games - its just how it goes. But Microsoft really stuck it to consumers in a couple of areas. 1) The wireless controller - While this is an absolutely wonderful feature, it should be $10 cheaper. 2) Plug and Play Charge Kit - Combine the $20 this costs and the $50 controller is now $70. Ouch! 3) Games - I touched on this earlier, 10 clams too much.

Right On - The Wireless Controller. Yeah, yeah...I know. I just griped about the cost. It is $10 too much but I love this thing. Not just the fact that its wireless (my wife still checks for cords when she walks in front of me, ha!) but because the layout is so perfect. All of the buttons are in exactly the right place. Its incredibly intuitive. The size is just about right as well. Fits good in both hands - not too heavy, not too light.

Right On - Xbox Live Marketplace. I've said it before and I'll say it again, this is the future of gaming. Downloading movie trailers, pictures to go next to your gamer tag and demos are all well and good but the Xbox Live Arcade is what makes this place so special. "Geometry
Wars", "Hexic HD" and "Zuma Deluxe" are just a few of the games you can get for free or dirt cheap. Some day discs will be gone and this is how we will purchase video games (and movies and music). Xbox Live Marketplace hasn't even begun to reach its potential.

Right On - Xbox Live. This will be Sony's biggest challenge. Not games and not graphics because the PS3 won't be any prettier or better than the 360. Online play is where its at and once you have it you can't live without it. Can Sony beat Microsoft at its own game? I doubt it.

So now what? Where does Microsoft go from here? I'm going to give my good friend Bill Gates a few candid suggestions in this weeks top 5 list.

Top 5 Ways Bill Gates Can Assure the 360's Dominance

1. Boost Production - Bill, you need to get as many 360's as you can into people's homes. The initial short supply didn't make your product mysterious and more desired, it ticked people off. If a family owns a 360, they're not going to turn around and buy a PS3 six months later. You need consoles now! Get Bill Jr. on the assembly line if you have to.

2. Lower Game Costs - This is a no-brainer, especially with EA already reducing its current-gen lineup to $30 or $40 dollars. What, you don't think Sony saw how many people scoffed at $60 games? You need to price drop a few months before the PS3 comes out because I guarantee you that their games will be $50 and no higher.

3. Get Halo 3 Out Quick - The 360 doesn't have a killer title and it needs one desperately. Bill, you need a game that's 360 only, that everyone will want. Put the screws to Bungie. And while your at it, work a deal with Rockstar so that the next GTA game is 360 only as well. Those two games would bury the PS3.

4. Leave Japan: Not totally, just recognize when you've been beat. I know the 3-headed marketing campaign (US, Europe, Japan) was ambitious and had to be tried. Well, you did it and fell on your face. Its okay, we all make mistakes. Well, except me. Those 360's sitting on shelves in Japan could be used to build up a greater US or European base.

5. Shake Your Money Maker: The 360 has 2 giant advantages over the PS3 (only because no one knows much about it) - Xbox Live and Xbox Live Marketplace. Neither of these features are being marketed enough. This is your ace in the hole, your trump card, your...well you get the idea. Not enough people know about Live and Marketplace. Sell them, tweak them, show'em off. The gaming world could be yours.

The Return of Mario

The first new Super Mario Bros. game in 20 years (has it really been that long?) will be released on May 7th. For the Nintendo DS only.

The game will include all new power-ups including a blue shell that Mario can ride, and a new massive mushroom that will make Mario as big as Barry Bonds' head. Its about time that one of the most recognizable figures in gaming made his return.

You want the cheats?!? You can't handle the cheats!!

What game has the most requests for cheat codes? GTA: San Andreas. Ask and ye shall receive. Here are a few of the cheats available. Look for Xbox San Andreas codes in the near future.

GTA: San Andreas Cheats PS2
R1, R1, Circle, R2, Up, Down, Up, Down, Up, Down
Lower Wanted Level
R1, R2, L1 , X, Left , Down, Right, Up, Left, Down, Right, Up
$250,000, full health and armor (also repairs cars if you are in one)
Circle, Circle, L1, Circle, Circle, Circle, L1, L2, R1, Triangle, Circle, Triangle
Spawn A Rhino
R2, Up, L2, Left, Left, R1, L1, Circle, Right
Spawn a Stretch
Down, R1, Circle, L2, L2, X, R1, L1, Left, Left
Spawn Bloodring Banger
Right, R2, Circle, R1, L2, Square, R1, R2
Cars on Water
R2, L2, R1, L1, L2, R2, Square, Triangle, Circle, Triangle, L2, L1
Destroy Cars
R2, Circle, Up, L1, Right, R1, Right, Up, Square, Triangle
Flying Boats
Triangle, R1, R1, Left, R1, L1, R2, L1
Perfect Handling
Right, R1, Up, L2, L2, Left, R1, L1, R1, R1
Faster Cars
Right, R1, Up, L2, L2, Left, R1, L1, R1, R1
All Traffic Lights Stay Green
Triangle, L1, Triangle, R2, Square, L1, L1
All Vehicles Invisible (Except Motorcycles)
R2, L1, Circle, Right, L1, R1, Right, Up, circle, R2
Spawn Hotring Racer #2
R1, circle, R2, Right, L1, L2, X (2), Square, R1
Spawn Hotring Racer #1
Triangle, Up ,Up, Left, Right, Square, Circle, Right
Skinny
Triangle, Up ,Up, Left, Right, Square, Circle, Down
Max Fat
Up, Up, Triangle, Triangle, Up, Up, Left, Right, Square, R2, R2
Jump 10 times higher
Left, Right, L1, L2, R1, R2, Up, Down, Left, Right
Jetpack
Triangle, Triangle, Square, Circle, X, L1, L1, Down, Up
Spawns Hydra
Right, Up, R1, R1, R1, Down, Triangle, Triangle, X, Circle, L1, L1
Spawn a Monster
Left, Right, L1, L2, R1, R2, R2, Up, Down, Right, L1
spawn a parachute
Triangle, Square, Circle, Circle, Square, Circle, Circle, L1, L2, L2, R1, R2.
Jump 100 feet in air on bike
triangle,up,up,left,right,square,circle,left
Max Muscle
Up, Left, X, Triangle, R1, Circle, Circle, Circle, L2
Super Punch
up, L1, R1, up, right, up, x, L2, x, L1
Increase car speed
Down, Left, L1, Down, Down, R2, Down, L2, Down
Infinite Lung Capacity
up,x,triangle,x,triangle,x,square,R2,right
all taxis get nitro + jump up when you press L3
Down, X, Right, Left, Right, R1, Right, Down, Up, Triangle
Infinite health, still hurt from explosions, drowning, and falling.
L1, Circle, Triangle, L1, L1, Square, L2, Up, Down, Left
All Pedestrians Are Elvis
CIRCLE, X, L1, CIRCLE, CIRCLE, L1, CIRCLE, R1, R2, L2, L1, L1
Spawn Hunter
SQUARE, L2, X, R1, L2, L2, LEFT, R1, RIGHT, L1, L1, L1
Max All Vehicle stats (Driving, Flying Bike, Cycling)
DOWN, SQUARE, X, LEFT, R1, R2, LEFT, DOWN, DOWN, L1, L1, L1
Hitman In all weapon
L1, R1, TRIANGLE, DOWN, R2, X, L1, UP, L2, L2, L1, L1
Max Respect

Rumor Mill

Its always good to be informed. Here's the latest news and rumors the gaming world has to offer.

Nintendo DS Getting Internet Browsing and TV Capabilities - Opera Software announced it will soon release a card that allows the handheld DS (which is already Wi-Fi enabled) to be used as a web browser. The software will sell for around $32. Opera will also release a separate card for the DS that will enable it to be used as a digital TV receiver. Before you get too excited, this is all happening in Japan. No word yet on when, or if, this technology will be made available to US gamers.

Activision to develop Transformers Video Game - Hasbro has given Activision the rights to develop handheld, console and PC games based on the Transformers movie coming out in 2007. I'm sure this made Optimus Prime very happy.

More Nintendo DS News - Nintendogs has reached the 4.5 million mark with 2 million copies have sold in Europe, 1.5 million in the US and 1 million in Japan. Digital poop is just easier to pick up.

New Lara Croft Model - Eidos has announced that 20-year old Londoner Karima Adebibe is their new Lara Croft Model. Adebibe's training includes SAS (British Special Forces) survival, combat and semi automatic weapon firing, archaeology and etiquette. This is so she can deal with mobs of crazy gaming fans at trade shows.

Top 5 Games You Should Keep Until You Croak

We all know that games come and go, you love a game one minute and then you're tired of it 4 weeks later. Systems become obsolete, the trade value of a game drops, so why hold on to something longer than you should? For two reasons. 1) Some are actually worth a ton of money and 2) sentimental value.

I'm not a game hawk. I don't deal games, I don't collect them at yard sales then sell them on ebay or anything like that. If other guys want to do it, whatever, fine by me. But I'm a guy who loves video games for the fun they give, for the memories they've provided and the bonds they've created. So I fall into the sentimental category.

Do I save everything? No way! But the games below I'll never get rid of because they remind me of something. It could have been a gift from someone close to me, it could be that I don't think they ever made a better version of what I had, it could be that it brings back memories of who I was or what my life was like at that time. It just depends. Here's my list. Let me know what makes your top 5, even if you don't have it anymore and regret it.

Terry's Top 5 Games I'll Keep Until My Son Inherits Them

1. Metal Gear Solid - I've mentioned this game in my column once before. This was a life altering game for me. I've always loved movies or games set in a snow. I don't know, maybe I was a polar bear in a previous life. The setting, the over the top story and the great voice work hooked me. And of course, getting past guards while disguised as a box made me laugh until milk came out of my nose. Every time. The lesson to be learned? Don't drink and game at the same time.

2. Super Mario Bros - Of course I'm talking about the NES version. I don't know anyone who wasn't addicted to this at the time, it was like crack. I blame my brother Phil for this. I was in college when this came out and I'd go home and to do my laundry. He'd bug me to death until I tried it and once I started I just couldn't stop. The next day I went out and bought my own NES.

3. Legend of Zelda - This one nailed me in high school. I hadn't played games in years and one day I'm over at a buddy's house and his little brother had an NES. He was playing Zelda and the music hypnotized me. I pushed the kid to the side and played until 5am.

4. NHL 94 - I can't even begin to describe how much money I made off of this Super Nintendo classic. In my frat, this was the game to play and I was house champ until I graduated. Still the greatest sports video game ever.

5. The Grand Theft Auto: Vice City - I love music just as much as I love video games and with all of the 80's tunes in this game, I couldn't help but love it. The game play is stellar, the voice acting still has no equal and all of 80's references (Miami Vice, Scarface) really got to me. I grew up in the 80's, what can I say?

Cheater, cheater pumpkin eater

I promised you some cheat codes and because I'm a man of my word, its time I delivered. This week I'm dishing out some dirt on three Xbox 360 games. Cheats for the 360 are still hard to come by, so use them well.

Need for Speed Most Wanted Cheats
At the title screen, enter the code. You should get a confirmation.
Left, Right, Left, Right, Up, Down, Up, Down: Castrol Version Of Ford GT
Up, Up, Down, Down, Left, Right, Up, Down: Junkman Engine
L, R, R, R, Right, Left, Right, Down: Porsche Cayman
Up, Down, Up, Down, Left, Right, Left: the Burger King challenge

King Kong Cheats
At the start screen, where it says play, options, and extras, hold LB + RB + LT + RT and press Down, Up, Y, X, Down, Down, Y, Y. A cheat menu should appear. Enter these codes:
8wonder: invincibility
GrosBras: one-bullet kills(not spears)
KKst0ry: level select
KK 999 mun: 999 bullets
KKmuseum: all extras unlocked
lance 1nf: infinite spears(press reload for spear)
KKcapone: Thompson(no reload needed)
KKsn1per: Sniper Rifle(no reload needed)

Call of Duty 2 Cheat
On the mission select screen, hold both the left and right bumpers then quickly input on the d-pad: left, left, right, right, then Y, Y. This will unlock all levels.

A good Star Trek game? I hope so.

Bethesda Softworks recently announced that a new Star Trek game, Star Trek: Legacy, will be released for the Xbox 360 sometime this fall. Like most Trekkies, I have been incredibly disappointed by the lame games that have come out bearing the Star Trek license but this one looks promising.

No word yet on how exactly the gameplay will work but "Legacy" will be the first Star Trek game to cover the entire series timeline from Archer to Picard and everything in between. I hoped to get more information about the games release, so I interviewed Captain Kirk himself to see if I could get more information. Here's the transcript of our conversation:

Me: Captain Kirk, what a pleasure to meet you!

Kirk: The...pleasure...is...all mine.

Me: Captain, can you tell me about the new "Star Trek: Legacy" game? Will you be battling Klingons? How often will your shirt get ripped? Any battles to the death with Mr. Spock? Will you continue to meet old flames at every port of call?

Kirk: I'm afraid...that information...is confidential. In fact...how did you...get aboard...my ship?

Me: Uhura said I could have a few moments of your time for an interview. You're kind of possessive about your ship aren't you?

Kirk: I don't...remember...clearing any interview...with Starfleet Command. Security!

Me: Oh come on! You don't mean one of those guys in a red shirt do you? I can take care of those guys, I watch the show.

(Mr. Spock then sneaks up on me and knocks me out with a Vulcan Nerve Pinch.)

Kirk: This interview...is over.

Halo 2 on PC, finally

At long last "Halo 2" will soon be available to PC gamers, but there's a catch. Its only good on Microsoft's new operating system - Windows Vista. If Microsoft execs think that using "Halo 2" is going to motivate gamers to get their new software they're nuts.

PC gamers are a slightly different animal than console gamers. They have their own little niche of games and while the original "Halo" is certainly popular among PC owners, its not the must have game it is for Xbox owners. Combined with the fact that "Halo 2" came out 18 months ago (die-hard Master Chief followers surely already have it) and that Windows Vista will cost a few hundred dollars by itself and I don't really see this as a smart marketing technique.

"Halo" is a wonderful series with a great future and single-handedly put the Xbox on the map, but it sure looks like Microsoft might be leaning a little too much on its franchise defining game.

Wanna play?

Xbox Live has no equal when it comes to online gaming. Looking to get your game on? If you're itching for someone to shoot at, I'm available. My gamertag is coloradojoe.

My reflexes aren't what they used to be, but I still love playing online. My favorite Xbox Live games, in order of personal preference, are "Halo 2", "Perfect Dark Zero", "Call of Duty 2", "Project Gotham Racing 3" and "Madden". Send me an invite if you want to play sometime.

Terry Terrones
The Gazette

The new Nintendo Revolution Controller: U-G-L-Y, Ugly

What's this hideous item to the right? Is it an iPod Shuffle connected to a mouse? Is it a DVD remote married to an Atari 2600 joystick? No, its Nintendo's new controller for its system that comes out later this year - The Revolution.

Unless you plan on using them Nunchaku-style on your TV, I have no idea how this crazy looking contraption is going to work. It seems to me gamers will have problems with their hands working independently without any real connectivity. Its like playing tennis with two rackets.

I give Nintendo credit for trying something new but sometimes its best to stick with what works. I would expect them to offer a more traditional looking controller at launch.

Ding!

"Fight Night Round 3" comes out February 20th and I couldn't be more excited. Recreating some of the most memorable fights (Ali/Frazier, Hagler/Leonard) and getting the chance to become one of nearly 30 current boxers (ear nibbler Mike Tyson excluded) sounds fun.

The two features I'm most looking forward to are online play and create-a-boxer mode. Designing my own pugilist and testing my skills online should be a blast.

The game looks awesome, especially the 360 version. Okay, so maybe I'm speculating because I'm currently judging its appearance on screenshots and previews I've read. Still, I'm pretty stoked about matching up against Ali and seeing how I do. I think I can take him.

G4 Game of the Year Awards

G4 TV, a cable channel devoted to video games, announced its 2005 pick for game of the year. The winner? Resident Evil 4. Rounding out G4's Top 5 games for last year were God of War, Battlefield 2, Guitar Hero and Shadow of the Colossus.

These are all good games and Resident Evil 4 really did bring back some respect to a struggling franchise - but how can no Xbox 360 games be in G4's top 5? Project Gotham Racing 3 and Call of Duty 2 deserve Top 5 status.

Check out www.g4tv.com for their complete list of award winners.