Avatar The Last Airbender

Avatar The Last Airbender: The Complete Book 1 (Collector's Edition)
Avatar The Last Airbender
Most western animation for children is, to put it simply, really wretched. At best, it's tolerable.

But a shining exception would be the tale of the Avatar of all four elements, and to restore the balance in the world. "Avatar The Last Airbender - Book 1" serves as a solid first season to this series, with its colourful world, vivid action and complex characters. It may be aimed at kids, but it's a solid enough series to be enjoyed by any age.

South Pole Water Tribe siblings Katara and Sokka stumble across a glowing iceberg, with a young Airbender boy named Aang (and his flying bison) sealed inside. All Airbenders were killed long ago by the Fire Nation -- and Aang is the Avatar who mysteriously vanished a century ago, and is the only hope against the Fire Nation.

Unfortunately, a Fire Nation prince named Zuko has been wandering the world in search of Aang, and agrees to let the Water Tribe alone if Aang surrenders. Katara and Sokka manage to rescue their friend, and since Katara isn't experienced enough in waterbending to teach Aang, they set out for the North Pole to find a waterbending master -- with Zuko and his cruel rival Admiral Zhao in hot pursuit.

Along the way, they encounter hurricanes, woman warriors, a loopy old king who seems very familiar, a Spirit World Beast, pirates, teenage rebels, two tribes locked in an eternal feud, a mysterious blue masked man, fortunetellers, a rogue Firebender, and an Air Temple turned into a steampunk city. But when they arrive at the north pole, Aang and his friends find that their time is running out...

The highest compliment I can pay "Avatar: The Last Airbender" is that it's like a thoroughly solid action/fantasy anime. It's graced with good writing, excellent animation, and a general look drawn from Asian and Inuit cultures -- not to mention different civilizations clashing against the steampunky armored tanks and ships of the Fire Nation.

That isn't to say that it's all grim and serious -- it's quite the opposite. Lots of amusing dialogue ("I'm too young to die!" "I'm not, but I still don't wanna!"), slapstick, and flashy fights involving eruptions of fire, swirling water and blasts of air. It all culminates in a brilliantly epic clash, which wraps up the season nicely while leaving the way open for Aang's next lessons.

Aang is a kind and selfless kid, but still a kid -- plenty of turmoil over his role as the Avatar and his past mistakes, but he's still down-to-earth and sometime spacey. Katara and Sokka make good companions -- a sensible, short-fused girl with waterbending powers, and her reckless, courageous brother. And though he's technically a villain, the scarred, exiled prince Zuko is a brilliant anti-hero. And his lovably pervy uncle Iroh makes for good comic relief ("I'm certain you bathe regularly"), but there are hints that he's much more than that.

The special edition is being released in time for the live-action adaptation, and it adds a sleek blue "book" case with silver detailing. There are going to be seven discs instead of the usual six, with extra stuff -- an exclusive documentary, a paperback companion for artwork and designs, and so on. This could be worth it if you're just discovering "Avatar," but I wouldn't advise buying it if you already have the regular "Book 1."

"Avatar The Last Airbender: The Complete Book 1" has a few initial wobbles, but quickly blossoms into a brilliant little show. Definitely worth seeing.
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Starcraft II ( Wings of Liberty )

Starcraft II ( Wings of Liberty )

Product Description
StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty is the sequel to Blizzard Entertainment's 1998 hit StarCraft, which has been hailed by players and critics worldwide as one of the top real-time strategy games of all time. StarCraft II will once again center on the clash between the protoss, terrans, and zerg, with each side deploying favorite units from the original StarCraft, along with numerous upgraded and brand-new units and abilities that allow for fresh tactics and strategies. The game's new 3D-graphics engine maintains the speed and responsive control of its predecessor while rendering hundreds of units onscreen for massive battles. StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty's solo campaign will continue the epic saga where it left off in StarCraft: Brood War. The storyline chronicles the exploits of marshal-turned-rebel-leader Jim Raynor and features both familiar faces and new heroes. Players will be able to tailor the experience, choosing their own mission path and selecting technology and research upgrades to suit their playing style throughout the 29-mission campaign. Several challenge-mode mini-games will also be included, with focused goals designed to ease players into the basics of multiplayer strategies. In addition, dozens of multiplayer maps will be available for competitive play through the new version of Battle.net, which is launching alongside StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty. This new version of the service has been built from the ground up to offer an unparalleled online play experience, with new features such as voice communication, character profiles and achievements, stat-tracking, ladders and leagues, cloud file storage, and more.
Reviews
I'm going to make this review short.
For everyone who is complaining about only having one side of the story, the story is over 20 hours long! I have read that it can take 25-30 hours to beat, which is about as long as the single campaign was in the original StarCraft for all three races. Blizzard only released one side of the story to go as in-depth as they wanted. They couldn't do that if they had all three races at once.
My biggest problem with this game is one thing. No LAN. Seriously Blizzard? One of the main perks of the original game was being able to play with all of your friends in a basement while drinking soda all night. You can't do that anymore which is a major killer.
However, StarCraft has surpassed all of my expectations, plus it comes with the original game as well which is a great perk.
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Starcraft II: Wings of Liberty

Wii Fit Plus with Balance Board

Wii Fit Plus with Balance Board

Product Description
Your life as a couch potato is officially over. Welcome to Wii Fit, an innovative challenge that combines the strategy of video games with the movement of exercise. Simply step onto the included Wii Balance Board and run and jump your way through energizing challenges. With more than 40 activities based on strength training, aerobics, yoga and balance, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Take the fun route to physical fitness with this new, active way to play on your Nintendo Wii.Start by creating your personal profile. Set up your Mii, enter your height and let the Balance Board take your weight. In just a few short seconds, you'll know your current Body Mass Index (BMI), a measurement used to determine your Wii Fit age. You'll also take a balance test to determine how well you can maintain your left and right balance. As you progress, you can watch these statistics improve and find the motivation to practice every day. Keep at it and soon new exercises and activities will become available. Wii Fit will even remember the activities you choose the most and put them in your Favorites category. Get out of your seat and into the winner's circle with this entertaining way to get in shape. FeaturesIncludes Wii Fit video game, Wii Balance Board and 4 AA batteries Requires Wii Remote (not included) to play Earn Fit Credits that unlock additional exercises and activities within four categories: Strength Training, Aerobics, Yoga and Balance Games Yoga exercises include Deep Breathing, Half-Moon, Dance, Cobra, Bridge, Spinal Twist, Shoulder Stand, Warrior, Tree, Sun Salutation, Standing Knee, Palm Tree, Chair, Triangle and Downward-Facing Dog Perform muscle-toning exercises such as Single Leg Extension, Sideways Leg Lift, Arm and Leg Lift, Single-Arm Stand, Torso Twists, Rowing Squat and Single Leg Twist; challenges include Push-Up, Plank and Jackknife Get moving
Reviews
So, after 5 days playing and getting exercises with my Wii Fit Plus (from now on WFP), I think I am ready to write a review, I will try to make it short but useful as possible. (English is not my native language, you will notice immediately).
First, about me:
I do not go to the gym (have tried but don't get used to), nor do exercises, or run... but I do move around a lot because of my job, I work on the field, so I have to walk a lot, also I do eat consciously, from December 2008 to nowadays I have lost 15 lbs and was decided to not go back.
So I was looking at Wii Fit this summer, and knew about WFP and decided to wait. Meanwhile, I was on the blogs, the forums, online videos, about people experience about this game, and I wanted to get fit and have fun.
Then, I got WFP:
I explored the games, the routines, I was doing my daily body tests, I am true about this and I want to get fit. At the end of the second day with WFP, I felt the lack of exercises in my body, for example the Rhythm Kung Fu, some think this mini game is lame, but my biceps were hurting, probably because of the fast move of the arms forward. The Jack-knife made my abs to shake, I was amazed about how weak I was, when I try to hold a pose and start shaking after 10 seconds, I struggle to keep the poses because I know it is working out my body; I feel it, a start to a better life, so, if you are true about this game, pardon, "Investment", you will feel the work out.
Game play review:
The game fits my needs; I have a wide variety of choosing how and where I want to work out. Example I can choose a category of exercises to work my arms, abs, legs, etc. Also I can combine those to avoid interruption, and the best of all for me, I can select how long I want to work out, 10 minutes, 15, 30... and the game will arrange the exercises to fit that time, in any of Yoga, Yoga & Strength, or Strength only category, and as you do the poses, the game will put a checkmark on it and continue, so you will "carpe diem" that time as much as possible.
About the balance board:
I notice immediately something was not right about my weight according to WFP, so I compared my weight on the balance board to a professional scale (you know, like one of those the doctors have on their office), the scale is calibrated correctly, 1 litter of water is exactly 1 kg, since the weight I get from the pro scale is as I am, with my cloths on (unless I want to weight without cloths, then I will have to weight without cloths on the balance board, that would be the more accurate weight of your body), I chose a cero lb discount (the part where I am asked to select the weight of my cloths), and I did the numbers, and found out and offset of 3 pounds, exactly 3 pounds, my balance board is measuring 3 pounds lower than real weight, and I use the balance board on hard floor, so I do not need the leg extensions.
Other than that, it is very sensitive and does the job... oh! by the way, you will need a yoga mat if you work on hard floor, as some poses requires you to bend on your knees, and if your hands are sweating, or your feet, you will slide off, so get a yoga mat for extra grip and soften bones/floor contact.
So, that's it, my final review, invest on WFP, do not get it just for the games, they do work you out, but I think this game is targeted to do the fit exercises (Yoga and Strength), after your routine, play some mini games to "carpe diem" your daily use of WFP, as those counts too towards your kcal goal (or Cal, with capital C) and time spent.
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Kinect

Kinect
Coming this holiday 2010, Kinect will turn YOU into the controller for games and entertainment, and it will work with every Xbox 360. Unlike 2-D cameras and controllers, Kinect tracks your full body movement in 3-D, while responding to commands, directions, even a difference of emotion in your voice
With the Kinect sensor, you can experience gaming like never before. Easy to use and fun for everyone, the Kinect sensor utilizes revolutionary full-body tracking to put you in the center of the fun. This amazing new technology allows the sensor to recognize your body and mirror your movements in the game, making you the controller. The sensor is compatible with every Xbox 360* and comes with a Kinect game. With Kinect Xbox 360 now has the best controller ever made - YOU.
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God of War III

God of War III

Product Description
God of War® III finds Kratos raining carnage and destruction upon the Gods who have betrayed him and the entire Ancient Greek world. Armed with his deadly double-chained blades, Kratos will take on mythology’s darkest creatures while solving intricate puzzles on his merciless quest to destroy Olympus and the mighty Zeus himself.
Reviews
If you don't then you will be missing out on, easily, one of GREATEST games of all time! I thought I was blown away by Uncharted 2. I was but I am even more so with God Of War 3. Unbelievably, God Of War 3 floored me from the 30 minute opening sequence to the mind blowing finale. How did Sony Santa Monica pull this off? The SCALE of this game will boggle the mind and make your jaw hit the floor! When I first played the demo some 3 months ago I was in awe. After having played through every luscious drop of GOW 3 I am spellbound beyond belief. If I could only use one word to describe this game: EPIC! Remember the old home arcade system Neo Geo and SNK's motto for it "Bigger, Badder, Better"? This applies to GOW 3 in spades.
Upon first sight of GOW 3 you'll notice that the high def graphics are probably the best, on any system anywhere, computer gaming rigs included. Sony really tapped into the "true" power of the PS3 with this one. Some of the things I saw in this game is making me think it was all a dream because it just isn't possible in games, right? Wrong. Seeing the gigantic titans filling up the whole screen in perfect graphical splendor, on a 50 in. plasma, all the while Kratos is scaling it, and fighting a boss(Poseidon) on it, is completely amazing. Gamers, this is what we live for! The detail of not just the titans, the environments, and the Ghost of Sparta himself, but the minor enemies, such as the skeleton warriors, is astonishing. And seeing 15 or so of these skeleton warriors pile on Kratos and then seeing him violently power them off is unbelievably cool and empowering. It almost makes you feel like a god! The sheer power you feel controlling Kratos and watching him annihilate everything in his path in the name of vengeance will cast a spell over you.
The combat control is much the same as before, if not better. In other words, the control is flawless and if ain't broke don't fix it philosphy applies here. There are timed button presses for the boss battles(quick timed events). And bosses there will be. Some of them are absolutely enormous, such as Hades. Dealing death to the bosses is quite a sight. Impale them. Check! Rip off body parts. Check! Let blood and guts flow like a river. Check! This is one of the goriest and most violently graphic games I've seen. EVER! Kratos can still have sex in GOW 3! Always a welcome addition. Even one scene with a goddess! I think what might impress me most besides the scale of the game, is the number of enemies that can be on screen at one time. At times, there had to be close to 50 or more on screen. That is incredible considering it's running at 60 FPS the entire time with no slowdown. All of that even when there are cyclopses and minotaurs on the same screen, along with a titan in the background. Ridiculously amazing!
The story, sadly, was the most disappointing part of the game. It seemed a bit convoluted; like too much was going on with too many different characters. The story is not bad mind you and it`s easy to follow, it just feels like it's taking a major backseat to everything else. Still, it takes nothing away from the greatness of GOW 3. The puzzles in the game are challenging without being overly so and some of them very clever and ingenious. More than a few I was a bit stumped by. All in all it took me about 10 to 12 hours to roll through this masterpiece. I don't really remember how long it took me to go through each of the first two, so I can't compare length. While a bit short, for my taste, it was still one hell of a magnificent ride! The camera still can't be controlled by the player, but that has never bothered me and I think it was put to even better use this time around. It seems the angles and various shots are Hollywoodesque, if that makes any sense.
Weapons! The Cestus easily steals the show of the several new ones that you'll earn. The Cestus is completely WICKED! The combo moves are spectacular and more so than ever before and you can now swap weapons on the D-pad in the middle of one. When surrounded by a bunch of baddies and knowing you have different button options to pound the pulp out of them is especially gratifying. The use of the bow and arrow is easy and very useful. Very cool shooting the harpies with it and grabbing on to them to further your progress across chasms or to the top of places well out of your reach. I like the fact that now the bow quickly recharges after each use. I love being able to pick up enemies and charge with them, using them as a battering ram on other baddies. Completely awesome! Controlling the cyclops is amazing as well; swinging him around and pulping your enemies is gleefully sadistic. It must be experienced! You level up your health and magic much the same way as the two previous GOW's via feathers, stones, and now, minotaur horns.
The music is excellent! But hasn't the music always been excellent in the series? The voice acting IMHO is top notch. Seems even better than before. The action and pace of the game are relentless. Something new(and amazing) and unique is always happening to keep you glued to the screen; even if it happens only once. There is so much more I could go on talking about with this stunning, amazing, and breathtaking game known as God Of War 3, but I`d be here for a while and then you`d be bored;)
I don't care what genre of games you like or whether or not you even like GOW 3 type games, this is a game that absolutely MUST be experienced. I won't say this is my favorite game of all time, but it's right there at the top with Uncharted 2, Modern Warfare 2, Metal Gear 4, and Resident Evil 4. I don't care if you have to get an extra job(gulp), rob a convenient store(gasp) or steal if off your friend(yeah!) you have got to get this SOON! I've been playing games for 30+ years(since the days of Colecovision) and I've never been this AMAZED by a game! There is so much diversity, so much to see, so much so tightly packed in such a spectacular game that it will make you wonder how they pulled it oof. Folks, the next generation of gaming has arrived and I am stunned, blown away, mesmerized and spellbound by what Sony Santa Monica created. My hat goes off to them for they are a TRULY talented team! Kudos of accolades go to Stig Asmussen for his brilliant direction of this game and for making it so much more than I thought possible.
This seems to be the end of this GOW saga and I hope we'll see more of Kratos in the future, because this is only a scratch on the video game surface of the great things the future could hold for the Ghost of Sparta. I am truly moved!
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Wii with Wii Sports Resort

Wii with Wii Sports Resort

Product Description
Since its release in 2006, Nintendo's Wii gaming console has ignited an international revolution of interactive gaming, entertainment and fun among people of all ages. That revolution continues with the Wii Wii Sports Resort bundle - black. Consisting of a stylish black Wii console, black versions of the Wii Remote, Nunchuk and Wii MotionPlus accessory, a copy of Wii Sports Resort and the original Wii Sports game, it is a whole new way to start or expand a Wii party in your home.
Reviews
I am not a fan of video games, but I must admit that this is the best one out there, especially bundled with all the sports software. My family, from the preschooler (age 5) to the great-grandma (age 80), and everybody at every age in between, really enjoys playing the sports games, either solo or even better competitively. Now this includes a lot of couch potatoes, including me, so I am very happy to see everybody physically active, no matter how limited. The variety of games also allows for various levels of physical and mental abilities, depending on age and disability, and it permits individual and "team" choice and preference based on natural interest in one sport over another. This might just be the best thing to ever happen to "family togetherness" since the invention of television, which tends to isolate people from each other. Just from the standpoint of physical and mental exercise and challenge, the Wii is truly a bargain. And this bundle is an incredible bargain, combining so much hardware and software in one package. (I do wish there were a second Remote substituted for the Nunchuk, so as not to have to keep passing the Remote from player to player during the games. But I suspect Nintendo figured that this is a good way to increase profits, practically forcing people to purchase a second Remote for convenience sake, and I have to admit that at the Amazon price they may even be justified in taking that tack.) Of course, various family members also are puchasing their favorite arcade-type games as well, but again I have to admit, as a non-gamer, that those games also appear to be lots of fun and worthwhile, if you're into that type of entertainment. Finally, the design of the entire system looks and feels sleek and modern (especially in black), as well as sturdy. This is a real winner and a great deal at Amazon.
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PlayStation 3

PlayStation 3

Product Description
The fourth generation of hardware released for the PlayStation 3 entertainment platform, the PlayStation 3 120GB system is the next stage in the evolution of Sony's console gaming powerhouse. Loaded with a mix of multimedia features and functions available on earlier PlayStation 3 models, as well as a series of new advancements and refinements, the PlayStation 3 120GB system is destined to push the envelope in the realm of Next-Generation entertainment.
With the PlayStation 3 120GB system, you get free PlayStation Network membership, built-in Wi-Fi and 120GB of hard disk drive storage for games, music, videos and photos. And every PS3™ system comes with a built-in Blu-ray player to give you pristine picture quality and the best high-definition viewing experience available. Whether it’s gaming, Blu-ray movies, music or online services, experience it all with the PlayStation 3 system.
Reviews
As a proud owner of a PS3, I was closely following developments of when the rumored (and highly-anticipated) PS3 Slim would come out. After shelling [...] for the PS3 80GB back in 2008, I was really excited to hear that Sony not only announced a smaller version of the PS3, but also implemented a [long-overdue] $100 price cut. I immediately went out and bought the Slim as soon as possible, and am very happy with it so far. Here are my impressions
Online gameplay: You can use the Playstation Network's online features without having to pay a subscription fee like you do for the Xbox. I was never a big online gamer but now I enjoy playing against opponents online
Internet connectivity: Built-in wireless internet connectivity on the PS3 is a much better bet than having to buy a wireless network adapter for the Xbox. Of course you can simply rely on a wired Ethernet connection, but this might be inconvenient depending on your set-upHigh-Def Video: The Playstation 3 doubles as a Blu-Ray player. Microsoft bet on the wrong horse when they were hoping that HD-DVD would come out the winner in the high-def format wars. If you want a Blu-Ray player/video game system combo, the PS3 is a great device.
Failure rate: The Xbox 360 has an absurdly high failure rate, with estimates ranging between 30 to 50% ([...]). I can't verify the numbers, but know from my friends who own the Xbox 360 that they've had a fair share of grief with their systems
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NCAA Football 11

NCAA Football 11

Product Description
NCAA Football 11, the highly anticipated 2010 release in the NCAA Football franchise, returns with a focus on authenticity, innovation, and core experience. College football fans can rejoice.
NCAA Football 11 delivers unique game play and traditions for each of the 120 schools through the TruSchool system, which blends offensive styles, coaching tendencies, areas of talent, stadiums and traditions to bring the pageantry and rivalry of college football to life like never before.
Feel the emotion of authentic college football more than ever with NCAA Football 11. From running the ‘no-huddle’ spread offense to walking out of the tunnel locking arms, everything you do and see will be original to your favorite school. With an all-new locomotion engine and real assignment A.I., only NCAA Football 11 gives you 120 ways to win!

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Just Dance

Just Dance
Product Description
In Just Dance players learn real dance moves to songs they know and love across a wide genre of music over the past sixty years. Requiring only one Wii Remote per player, up to four people can break it down at a time, as they follow on-screen choreographed moves set to classic dance tracks, covering a wide variety of musical genres and bringing everyone to the dance floor. The game includes more than 30 chart-topping and foot stomping hits designed to get players moving right out of the box.

Reviews Just Dance
Bought this game for the kids based on the commercial showing all the activity and the songs. Told my wife we had to try it out first and she balked because it was late, after the kids were in bed. I nagged she gave in I lasted 3 songs she danced every song until 2 in the morning. She had so much fun the game never made it under the Xmas tree. The next day the whole family had a blast. That night friends came over and danced for 3 hours. I'm taking it to the company Xmas party.

Pros - It's fun, fun, fun. The best family or group game since Wii Sport Bowling. It doesn't take a huge amount of skill or even rhythm. It's for the very young, anyone who can get up and boogie or simply the young at heart. If you try to play the game as intended you will get one heck of a total aerobic workout especially the smile muscles.

Cons - Primarily it's just that there is only 30 songs and surprisingly it's not enough, the developers should or had to have known they needed more (so that's the 1 star deduction.) It isn't for hard core gamers who are driven to be able to conquer a stage, solve a puzzle, revel in a high score or master a total game. They simply won't get it at all. The scoring is not spot on for the competition minded. I imagine if you wanted to cheat and just move the wiimote you could bypass the fun all together. May be to much exercise for those with physical impairments.

Sale Price too Low Just Dance Buy Now

Starcraft II: Wings of Liberty

Starcraft II: Wings of Liberty
Continue the epic saga of the Protoss, Terran, and Zerg. These three distinct and powerful races will clash once again in the fast-paced real-time strategy sequel to the original, StarCraft. Legions of veteran, upgraded, and new unit types will do battle across the galaxy, as each faction struggles for survival.

Featuring a single-player campaign that picks up where StarCraft: Brood War left off, StarCraft II presents a cast of new heroes and familiar faces in a sci-fi story filled with adventure and intrigue. In addition, Blizzard offers online play through Battle.net with several enhancements and features to make StarCraft II even better.

In the distant future, in the darkest regions of space, the ghosts of the past whisper your name. You are Jim Raynor, a marshal-turned-rebel on a vigilante crusade to bring down the Dominion and its nefarious leader, Arcturus Mengsk. Haunted by betrayal and remorse, some believe you may have given up the fight. But you have promises to keep... and a need for vengeance that’s long overdue.
Reviews Starcraft II: Wings of Liberty
The second phase of the StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty beta test is now underway. We're delighted to invite you back to the battlefield and hope that you will join us through July 19 for more terran, protoss, and zerg action.

As stated previously, all data from beta phase one has been reset. This includes characters, match history, ladder rankings, and achievements. Beta participants will therefore need to recreate their characters and, if joining matchmaking games, complete a new series of placement matches.

We thank you for all the feedback you provided during phase one and are excited to hear about more of your experiences in phase two. Welcome back to beta, and we'll see you on Battle.net!

Xbox 360 S 250GB Console

Xbox 360 S 250GB Console
The new Xbox 360. Here today, ready for tomorrow with a brand new, leaner machine in an all new black gloss finish. Wi-Fi is built-in for easier connection to the world of entertainment on Xbox LIVE, where HD movies and TV stream in an instant.Overview
It's ready for the controller-free experiences of Kinect - you don't just play the game, you are the game. And with the huge hard drive you'll have plenty of space to store your favorite games and movies. Xbox 360 is more games, entertainment and fun.
Reviews
I am extremely picky about any hardware I use. Having owned both models of the PS3 and a few Xbox 360s (that I bought and sold over time) I have pretty high expectations. Personally I think Xbox live is much better then PSN which is why I jumped from PS3 back to Xbox. My big issue was the hardware. Microsoft took care of a big issue by allowing users to burn their games to the hard drive. However, the fan noise on my Xbox Elite was still driving me crazy. Now my Elite wasn't broken, my ears just seem to attune to the noise they make. It especially drove me crazy when playing games like Puzzle Quest or when browsing the dash board. In this case the PS3 fat and slim where hands down superior (hardware build wise). But like many a fans I put up with the crappy build quality for the sake of a better interface and of course my friends list.

Now onto the new Xbox 360. Let me just say that for once I am very proud of Microsoft. They seem to have taken all the complaints from users and fixed them. This is the system they should have released long ago. The very first thing I noticed is how silent this machine is. Even after running for over an hour you can barely hear the fan. I would go as far as to say it's even more silent then the PS3 slim (which I found to be louder then the fat model). The new Xbox has a strange but cool new look. I don't understand why people are complaining that it is a finger print magnet. How often do you really touch your system once it's in place? The buttons on the front are now touch sensitive instead of pressing them in, and make a cool noise I must say. I'm happy to say that even my disc drive is quite. It's almost as quite running a disc as the fans on my Elite were. There are no old school memory card ports, but they upped the USB ports to 5. 2 on the front and 3 in the back. The new 250GB hard drive is removable. There is a button on the right side vent that you can press and remove the plate. The hard drive is in a special case but it's easier to move. The only downside to this is the people that take their hard drives to their friends house, but this can be fixed by using a USB drive now.

The controller is pretty much the same as the Elites plus a couple changes. The bottom portion of the controller that was gray shaded is now a shiny black and the Xbox button is shiny chrome. All in all goes will with the package. The ear cushion on the headset is also now black instead of grey. Microsoft also has a picture of a black chat pad and wireless headset on the box for the new 360. I'm keeping my fingers crossed for a black controller charger.

To close, I'm extremely satisfied with my purchase. It's a worthy upgrade and one that shows Microsoft is actually listening for once. Also for those planning to get Kinect there is a dedicated port so on the new system which will let you use the camera with one less cable.
Sale Price too Low Xbox 360 S 250GB Console Buy Now

Xbox 360 Live Subscription Gold Card

Product Description
Upgrade to Xbox LIVE Gold
Experience the best in gaming and entertainment with Xbox LIVE Gold. Raise the curtain on your own instant movie night with thousands of HD movies and TV episodes streamed instantly from Netflix. (Netflix membership sold separately). Invite friends all over the world to connect, cheer and play online multiplayer games. And as a Gold member, you’ll enjoy exclusive Deals of the Week that save you money and special sneak-peak game demos that give you early access to the newest and latest.
Cha-ching! Take advantage of the very best value for all the goodness of gold! Your Xbox LIVE Gold membership lets you connect and play with friends around the world and watch thousands of HD movies instantly from Netflix.Experience the best in gaming and entertainment with Xbox LIVE Gold. Raise the curtain on your own instant movie night with thousands of HD movies and TV episodes streamed instantly from Netflix. (Netflix membership sold separately). Invite friends all over the world to connect, cheer and play online multiplayer games. And as a Gold member, you’ll enjoy exclusive Deals of the Week that save you money and special sneak-peak game demos that give you early access to the newest and latest.

Reviews
From what I can find this is the cheapest cost per month option available for a live gold subscription. Depending on the current price, it ranges from $2.9158 to $3.3325 per month. What I don't get is why this credit card sized subscription card comes in such wasteful packaging. It comes in a rather large plastic packaging, which requires it to be shipped in a box. You get free shipping, but how wasteful. Why doesn't amazon just offer the code online and not eat the cost of shipping and at the same time be a little greener?
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Final Fantasy XIV

Product Description
Take up arms with adventurers from around the globe and embark on an epic journey within the unforgettable realm of Eorzea - the stage for a revolutionary new MMORPG designed to fit the lifestyles of players everywhere, from casual users to the most hardcore games.
Embark on the myriad journeys of an epic in FINAL FANTASY XIV, the revolutionary MMORPG from Square Enix. As denizens of the new and visually stunning realm of Eorzea, players will actively engage in compelling storylines narrated through high-definition, real-time events featuring the players’ own highly personalized and versatile characters. While exploring even the farthest reaches of this magnificent world, adventurers are given the freedom to entirely alter their gameplay experience by simply swapping out equipment, and realize objectives with or without the aid of others. The entire experience is crafted to accommodate the widest variety of play styles—from the lone mercenary with only moments a day to spare, to the legion of comrades campaigning for days on end, and every combination in between. Join players from around the world in an adventure of infinite possibilities. NOTICE: This product requires: (1) an active internet connection; (2) monthly recurring subscription fees; and (3) agreement to certain license and usage terms (available at FINALFANTASYXIV.COM). Currently, children under age 13 are not permitted to play; users 13-17 require parental consent. Users are granted a limited, revocable license only and do not own any data or intellectual property generated during gameplay.
Sale Price too Low Final Fantasy XIV Buy Now

LEGO Harry Potter: Years 1-4

LEGO Harry Potter: Years 1-4
LEGO Harry Potter: Years 1-4 brings the action, adventure and fun of the first 4 stories in the Harry Potter catalog to the video game screen in the way only the LEGO franchise can. Featuring all your favorite characters and story environments, LEGO Harry Potter: Years 1-4 lets players play as the wizard of their choice, combining them piece by piece as is only possible in the LEGO franchise of games. Play options include single player story mode, free-play and two-player co-op.
Reviews
After having previous LEGO games dished out to us, here comes along "Harry Potter Years 1-4", an exciting achievement that stands out among a basket full of other bland eggs. I was instantly amazed by the beautiful graphics, clever dialogue, and the challenging gameplay. What makes this stand out from other Harry Potter games released in the past is that you have the ability to play as other characters: Ron, Hermione's cat, Hagrid, etc. Each character has their own special ability, as well as their own strengths and weaknesses, which adds some flare to the gameplay. What is also new about this addition is that a multiplayer mode has been included for more than just one player.

The premise is fairly simple that most of us are already aware of. It covers years 1-4 from J.K Rowling's popular book series based on a teenage wizard. The game moves smoothly over each storyline of the book and stays true to the source material: defeating Aragon from the Chamber of Secrets, all the way to casting the Patronus charm at Dementors in the Prisoner of Azkaban. Gameplay and controls are fairly simple as well and especially fun when you are casting spells with your Wii remote. Many of the challenges involve quick puzzle solving and exploring unknown territory, and can become quite difficult. The crisp graphics combined with the dynamic and elevating score used from the movies also provides us with a clear insight into Harry's wizarding LEGO world.

"Harry Potter: Years 1-4" is by the far the finest Harry Potter video game to hit the shelves, possibly the best LEGO game. It gives us a new gameplay experience that we have not yet experienced in a Harry Potter video game and yet still harnesses that ability to captivate us. But, what I love the most about it is that it has allowed me to revisit that childhood I remember as a kid when such things existed. It will certainly keep Harry Potter fans on their feet as well while providing a vivid blast from the past for all of us who enjoyed the previous first four installments.

Uncharted 2: Among Thieves

Uncharted 2: Among Thieves

Product Description
Follow-up game to 2007's critically acclaimed Uncharted: Drake's Fortune, the PlayStation 3 exclusive Uncharted 2: Among Thieves is a continuation of the adventures of Nathan Drake, a fortune-hunter with a shady reputation and an even shadier past. Chock full of all the action, adventure, cinematic story elements and beautiful graphics that set the first game apart, Uncharted 2: Among Thieves adds deep online multiplayer options, including co-op and competitive campaigns, and a whole new supporting cast of characters, making it yet another must-have title for the PlayStation 3 platform.
Review
I'm sure if you're reading this you've already read countless other reviews praising the game for it's superb voice acting, mind blowing graphics, wonderful story telling, and it's riveting gameplay. I'm only writing this to enforce all of these things and hopefully tip you over the fence into buying this game immediately. Uncharted 2: Among Thieves contains almost every element that was in the first and improves upon it. For those of you who haven't played the first game it is essentially Gears of War meets Tomb Raider + Awesomeness all rolled into one. For those of you who did play Uncharted: Drake's Fortune you're all too aware of how short the first game was and I'm pleased to tell you that this game is substantially worth it. Not only does it last about 3-4 hours longer buy it features something to do when you're done, multiplayer. The multiplayer is essentially what you'd expect from Call of Duty 4 with and a 3rd person twist and several unique modes to shake up the formula. Uncharted 2: Among Thieves is like buying a three entree plate from Panda Express. It leaves you completely full and satisfied and although you'd happily enjoy another serving of Orange Chicken you can leave the restaurant knowing you got what you paid for. Buy this game and enjoy it because although it's built upon the qualities of other games, there's really nothing out there quite like it.

Red Dead Redemption

Red Dead Redemption


Product Description
Red Dead Redemption is a Western epic, set at the turn of the 20th century when the lawless and chaotic badlands began to give way to the expanding reach of government and the spread of the Industrial Age. The story of former outlaw, John Marston, Red Dead Redemption takes players on a great adventure across the American frontier.
Red Dead Redemption is an open-world, third-person, action-adventure game set at the tail end of the American West West era. Action takes place in the first few years of the twentieth century and revolves around the choices that the protagonist, former outlaw John Marston, is forced to make due to his blemished past. The game features a morality system assigning honor and fame points generated through the player's choices. It also features Wild West themed mini-games, new targeting and cover systems, extensive horse riding abilities, a wealth of period specific weapons and more than 40 huntable animals. Story
Review
Red Dead Redemption (Video Game)
I am not one to buy new releases. I always wait until they are $20 or so. I've never paid full price for a game, until RDR. I bought into the hype and decided I had to have this game. Do I regret it? Hell no! I haven't put a ton of time into it but I have to say this game easily ranks in my top 10 and will probably climb to the number one spot.

There are moments in this game that will just make you laugh. They will amaze you. They will irritate you (like when I dismounted my horse to help a guy being chased by coyotes and my dumb horse wandered off a cliff and died). But they are all great! I am just in awe of the graphics. My wife came in while I was playing and thought I was watching a movie. She sat down and watched me play for 20 minuted while I hunted some animals and she was in awe and she couldn't give a flip about video games.

There is so much to do in this game. I am speaking single player strictly...I haven't played multiplayer yet. It's fun to just ride around and do stuff. You really get the feel of being in the old west. And if you are tired of doing stuff in the game, you can play one of the minigames. I won $75 in a poker game this morning. It was great (the AI is average).

I love the random events. Stuff happens in this game. I was out one night and just hunted down a treasure map and a cougar came out of nowhere and killed my horse. I couldn't get away and couldn't get a beat on it and it killed me. Amazing.

You won't regret buying this game. It's been awhile since I've had a game that has captured my interest like this one has. I can't wait to get home and play some more.

New Super Mario Bros

Product Description
The classic Mario platform game is coming to Wii! For the first time, you can experience an action-packed Mario platformer on Wii with simultaneous multiplayer fun.

A classic 2D adventure, the game follows the style of New Super Mario Bros. for Nintendo DS. Princess Peach has been kidnapped by Bowser and it’s up to Mario to save her, but this time he’s not alone. Up to four players can join in the fun at the same time, playing as Mario, Luigi or either one of the Toads. Of course, you can also play solo and perfect your performance but friends and family will soon want to grab their Wii Remotes and join in the mayhem.

New Super Mario Bros. Wii offers a mix of cooperative and competitive play. Work together to rescue Princess Peach, or use your skills to battle for the best ranking. Co-operate by saving your friends from danger – or get rid of the competition by tossing them straight into it.

The game follows the style of New Super Mario Bros. for Nintendo DS with new twists utilising the unique features of Wii. The motion control capabilities of Wii have been cleverly implemented to enhance the gameplay at certain stages. For example, the player can angle a see-saw like platform by tilting the Wii Remote, to reach secret areas or angle the beam of a lamp to see the way in the dark.

New features in the game include the new propeller suit, which, by shaking the Wii Remote, allows your character to fly and hover – great for reaching secret areas. You can also use your suit to help your fellow players, for instance if another player picks you up, you can both fly together. There is a new penguin suit too which enables you to throw ice balls at your enemy, jump onto your stomach and slide with incredible speed across icy sections of a stage. Players can even ride different Yoshis through the crazy and imaginative levels, using their tongues to swallow enemies – or their fellow players.

New Super Mario Bros. Wii is also the first Nintendo game to feature a dynamic help system, which allows you to access a mode which allows you to watch how a level can be completed if you are stuck. The best thing about this mode is that you are free to jump into the action you’re watching on screen at any time!
Review

This is exactly the game you'd expect if you've ever played one of the Mario Bros. platform titles before - it's the same scrolling from right to left concept with the same characters, the same format of worlds and Bowser confrontations at the end of each one.

The important difference is that up to four people can play it at the same time - this turns it from a rather solitary and unsociable pursuit into many evenings of fun.

The levels themselves are very difficult - some of the bonuses are only achievable with more than one player playing unless you are very skilled with the controller, especially the time-based collection tasks - which lead me to conclude that this was designed as a multi- rather than a single-player game.

It manages to keep both types of player happy though - both dedicated ones and casual. At first there's 8 worlds to explore, but if you manage to get all the large coins then a 9th opens up for you to try (but you ned to get ALL the big coins in all other 8 worlds to progress to different stages in the final world). This adds a real longevity to the game because once you have it mastered, there's an addd incentive to get all the coins.

Highly recommended for anyone who wants to play a fun game with children who have a basic level of proficiency to their gameplaying skills; it would make a great gift too.

Edit: it tok me a week before I realised that if I held the 1 button down while moving, my character would sprint - and therefore jump a little further too (I wish I had known that earlier), and that if I pressed the 'a' button at times of extreme danger I would go back into my bubble and be safe (another thing I wish I knew earlier).

Super Mario Galaxy 2 (Wii)

Product Description
The most critically acclaimed Wii game ever returns, as Mario battles Bowser and his minions across an even more bizarre galaxy of worlds. The first game is already acknowledged as the greatest 3D platform game ever made and this new sequel adds to the excitement with long-time Mario ally Yoshi.

Not only will the little green dinosaur give you a ride wherever you want, but you can aim his tongue with the Wii remote and gobble up bad guys and bonuses alike. Eat a fruit and Yoshi will turn into a giant balloon or gobble a hot red pepper and he'll suddenly run at super speed.

You'll need all the help you can get too with even bigger and meaner bosses and some super hard secret levels. With a healthy mix of new tricks and old this is perfect fun for all the family and one of the best games on the Wii so far.

Review
Finally. The wait is over. Mario Galaxy 2 bursts onto the Wii. And what can I say that hasn't been covered by almost every other games magazine? It's amazing? It's excellent? Nostalgic? It's fun? At times challenging? Or the simple fact that after it arrived on my doorstep on Wednesday I've very rarely put it down?

Gameplay: The gameplay is much the same as the first game. You travel to a wide variety of planets in the search for stars jumping on a wide variety of enemies. Controls are perfect and don't deviate from the first game. A simple waggle of the wii-mote spins mario. You can jump with A, Triple Jumps and Wall Kicks make a return too.

Each Galaxy is filled with a theme. Be it a normal grassy planet to a block puzzle planet to even Ghost Planets and Huge Worlds. Each Galaxy has one or two stars and most usually have a secret star and a comet star. Unfortunately however some of the levels are that good it seems too short to only have one or two stars in the level. The difficulty in the game seems to have spiked too. While the first few galaxies are easier. Once you get to area 5 the game seems to shoot up in difficulty making a nice challenge. And that's not even touching on some of the comets and green stars. Never do you feel like you are playing the same type of Galaxy twice as each one brings something new and fun to it.

Another new feature is Yoshi. Mario's dino pal makes a comeback in a wide variety of ways. His tongue allows you to eat certain enemies and transform them into star bits and sometimes even shoot Bullet Bills back at enemies. You can even use Yoshi's tongue to grapple to new areas too!

As always in Mario there are numerous powerups. And this Mario isn't different. The Bee Suit makes a return alongside some other powerups such as the Cloud Suit which allows you to drop clouds to use as platforms. Also comes the Spinner which allows you to drill through planets to the other side. There are also powerups for Yoshi such as a Blimp Fruit and a Dash fruit.

Bosses are frequent once again. Most galaxies tend to have one which is nice. From a Huge Dragon that tries to gobble you up to Giant Mechas to even over sized bugs. Of course Bowser and Bowser Jnr make a return too.


Graphics: The Graphics on Mario are as you would expect them to be. Perfect and cute. While it doesn't match the same powerhouse levels that Mass Effect 2 or Red Dead Redemption do on the PS3 it's still amazing for the Wii's limitations. This seems to be the main argument that this is a bad game from PS360 fans but lets face it. It doesn't need to have great graphics to be a great game.

Story: Wafer-thin. Normally this is where I'd bash the hell out of game if the story is lacking. But it's Mario. They've used the same 'Save the Princess and traverse the world/galaxy' enough times it doesn't really need anything adding. Having a Faceship that travels the world is a nice touch too.

Sound: Best bit. Not surprisingly Mario Galaxy 2 boasts an AMAZING soundtrack. New tunes fit every galaxy aswell as blasts from the past. The Nostalgia was working overtime when I heard the 'Rainbow Ride' tune not to mention the 'Ghost House' tune in one of the Ghost galaxies.

Length: So far I think I'm nearing hour 30 or so. While I am nearing 80 stars I still have plenty more stars to get. Not to mention the Comets and the Green Stars to bring me up to 240

Other Notes: The game was packaged with a DVD to teach the young ones how to play. While it doesn't affect the older generation it does help the young uns to learn how to play the game and understand the mechanics without throwing them into it. Definitely a nice little addition if you are wanting your child to play the game.