Sunday, February 10, 2008

Nintendo Revolution Controller - Gimmick Or Innovation?

I always find it amusing that the word "gimmick" is slapped on nintendo innovations in gaming while companies like microsoft and Sony who actually add gimmicks that have nothing to do with gaming such as media functions to play music and video never seem to be labeled with the same term

With the unveiling of the Nintendo Revolution controller earlier this year, many people have expressed their skepticism. Some people feel that the controller lacks practically and will not be able to function effectively with games, while more harsh critics believe the controller is nothing more than a gimmick.

The company that tries to improve or innovate gaming is not a "gimmick". A "gimmick" is adding features that have nothing to do with gaming.

Wikipedia defines a gimmick as a unique or quirky special feature that makes something "stand out" from its contemporaries. Product gimmicks are sometimes considered mere novelties, and not really that relevant to the product's functioning.

It is no secret that there are more people using the PSP as a media player instead of a portable gaming console. Even in PSP television ads, Sony stresses how the console is so much more than just a hand held gaming system. Is the ps2 adding dvd playing functionality; is that a gimmick? The Xbox 360 is adding media Center extension from a PC; is that a gimmick?

Moreover nintendo have taken many risks in developing technology, - light guns, power-pad, power-glove, game Boy, virtual boy, DS, nintendo 64 controller, etc.

Some failed horribly, while others completely changed the market, but the important thing is that nintendo has tried to develop new ways to entertain us. This is much more than you can say for microsoft who has admittedly and repeatedly waited for others companies to experience the financial pains of innovation and then copied them when there was a proven market - DOS, Windows, Xbox etc. The bottom line is, these companies will simply never take the risks nintendo is willing to.

Of course nintendo is attempting to make a profit, but it is pretty apparent that they also have an interest in innovation and creating products which are fun and entertaining.

Developing products in a proven market is just good business. But we have to remember that at one point, risks are taken in order to develop new products. Most often in the video game industry, nintendo is the one taking the risks.

Ii Yoga Mat

Feel Powerful With A Superman Birthday Party

Superheroes are loved by partiers of all ages, and they provide some of the best party themes available; especially a superman birthday party. A superman birthday party is one that young and old alike will enjoy. If you have decided to have a superman birthday party for your child, you are sure to agree that this particular birthday party theme is easy to plan, easy to find supplies for, and practically has activities built right in.

Make invitations for your superman Birthday Party on your home computer, and print them out. Tell guests that Clark Kent has requested their presence at their friend __________'s superman birthday party, so they can help superman stop the villain. Simply fold old newspapers to form envelopes and hand deliver or mail invitations to guests. Be sure to include precise pick up and drop off times and information as well as enclosing a map for anyone who might need directions to your party location.

When each guest arrives, have a big red 'S' cut from contact paper to stick on their chests. Greet each one with the 'S' and tell them they are to be Superman's helper for the day. Organize scavenger or villain hunts, with clues to finding the evildoer. Be sure to provide help and guidance for young children, and be sure everyone has a chance to capture a bad guy and win a prize.

superman Birthday Party cakes are readily available for purchase, but it is equally simple to make your own. just make a cake in your child's favorite flavor, use blue food coloring to tint white frosting melt and pour over your cake to provide a smooth surface, and add your own red "S" to create a superman logo, and your superman extravaganza is sure to be loads of fun for everyone!

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