New Pornoviolence Genre To Be Created For GTA IV?
April 30, 2008
Pornoviolence was a term first used by Tom Wolfe in 1976, but thanks to the Guardian’s Peter Lyle it’s come to the fore once more. Peter Lyle is the Guardian’s Art and Architecture blogger and has criticised reports that GTA IV is a form of modern art, instead referencing it as pornoviolence.
The critique raises several issues. First off, labelling a game like GTA IV as being pornoviolence is certainly not going to put people off playing the game – in fact, I suspect it is much more likely to do the opposite.
Rockstar has long been the leading light when it comes to using apparent bad publicity to sell games – did you see the furore when they released Table Tennis? The GTA series has been nothing short of controversial from its inception but that controversy has continually fuelled its popularity.
However, one more important issue has been raised – should GTA IV have its very own genre? The pornoviolence tag sits well with me and if high calibre games like Grand Theft Auto were released under a new pornoviolence genre then I for one (and according to Lyle I’m a “media-addled introvert”) would be waiting for the next release to satiate my desire for “a crude, unmediated celebration of the urges to fight, have sex, and make fire ”.
GTA IV (Sold Out Long Ago) Released 29th April
April 27, 2008
It would be remiss to approach the 29th April without making any comment on the impending release of what must surely be the year’s most highly anticipated video game – Grand Theft Auto IV. This latest instalment joins an elite list of games that will already be classed as sold out when it hits the shelves.
Pre-orders for GTA IV have hit an unprecedented high, with major retailers like Play.com, HMV, and Game all claiming that they have already sold out. Obviously, hyper inflated versions will be available on Ebay (as ever) for those unable to wait until the next batch is released.
Many retailers stopped guaranteeing the delivery of pre-orders on the day of release several weeks ago. Some shops have even stated that customers that have already placed an order may not receive the game until a few days after release.
The GTA series has long been a hit since its PlayStation only days, and if you’re an avid gamer then you’ll no doubt be waiting anxiously for its release. If you’re not a gamer then expect unusually busy 24 hour supermarkets at one minute past midnight. This is often seen as the easiest way to get hold of a copy without paying the ridiculous prices otherwise demanded.
Prepare For A New Spate Of Wii Related Injuries
April 26, 2008
Finally, it’s here – the Wii Fit. Following a slew of software and uniquely entertaining additions to the Wii line up, the Wii Fit hit UK stores today. Bearing in mind the number of broken bones, smashed televisions, and assorted injuries already attributed to Wii gamers, this latest addition looks certain to attract a more cardiovascular range of injuries. But, it does look like it should provide a few giggles along the way.
Unfortunately, like all the latest video game fads, actually finding one might prove more difficult. Over quarter of a million unites are available throughout the country but if you haven’t already pre-ordered then you need to act quickly or face paying well over the odds on Ebay.
The Wii Fit includes the Wii Fit balance board and while the whole thing is unlikely to instantly convert anybody into an ultra-fit Adonis, combined with an hour or two of Wii Sport workout it will make an excellent introduction. What’s more you don’t have to embarrass yourself in front of the gym regulars.
The Wii has become renowned for being more accessible to a greater range of people compared to other games consoles. As well as looking certain to continue this trend, the Wii Fit board looks like being yet another popular addition to an already successful line up.
All Go! For PSP Owners
April 25, 2008
Hot on the heels of the Go!Messenger service, Sony has announced that video download service Go!View will be released some time in summer. Sony is partnering with Sky to release the Go!View service.
Users will be able to download TV episodes, films, and other content to watch while on the go. In true Sky style, the service will be released with a subscription and a pay-per-view price package so users have the freedom of how they want to pay as well.
Perhaps the most surprising thing about this release is that it’s the first official video download service available to European PSP owners. While no specific details have been leaked yet regarding the actual content that will be available, the listings should be pretty comprehensive and will almost definitely include the latest incarnation of Lost and 24.
While no firm release date has been announced, Sky and Sony have declared that it will be released some time in summer. Users will need to register first, then download content onto their PC, and then transfer it on to their PSP at a later time. It’s possible that a similar service may also be released for other handheld devices but, guess what? No official word on this has been released yet.
Rainbow Six PS3 Case - Now That Is Cool
February 8, 2008
Case mods of this calibre usually only appear on PC’s, but not any more. This rainbow six case mod is based on the Sony Playstation 3 and is so cool!
I have not seen such a detailed case in a long time, it has sky scrapers, attractions from Las Vegas and even a helicopter.
The PS3 is cleverly disguised as a casino with led’s to add effect. This is one case that will definetly be hard to beat!
White Playstation 3 40 GB To Launch In US
January 22, 2008
White Playstation 3 to launch in the US
The sony ps3 will launch in the USA soon according to the fcc website who have shown pictures of the console along side a user manual. The latest addition to the ps3 range will more then likely be the popular 40 GB version.
The PS3 will become the latest console to go white along side the Nintendo wii, x box 360 and other handheld gaming machines. In our opinion black is the new black but are also sure the white ps3 will be a welcome addition to the sony range. Watch this space!
