Author - Jerry Paxton

Plants vs. Zombies Garden Warfare Release Date

PvZ_PressDemo_Screens_01_WM

REDWOOD CITY, Calif. – November 21, 2013 – Prepare your peashooters! PopCap Games, a division of Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ: EA), today announced that Plants vs. Zombies™ Garden Warfare will be shipping for Xbox One all-in-one games and entertainment system from Microsoft, and Xbox 360 videogame and entertainment system on February 18, 2014 in North America and February 20, 2014 in Europe. Plants vs. Zombies Garden Warfare is an action-packed third-person multiplayer shooter that puts players in the shoes—or roots—of their favorite characters from the popular Plants vs. Zombies franchise.

“Gamers across the world have fallen in love with the Plants vs. Zombies characters and now they’ll get to see them in an entirely new light,” said Brian Lindley, Producer on Plants vs. Zombies Garden Warfare. “Plants vs. Zombies Garden Warfaregive the series’ fans and shooter players a fun, new experience that they’ll both enjoy as they blast, chomp and laugh their way through co-op and head-to-head online action.”

Powered by the advanced Frostbite 3 engine, Plants vs. Zombies Garden Warfare features stunning, three-dimensional worlds, blooming with vibrant colors and unique landscapes. The game has more than 10 maps and three distinct modes including two 12v12 competitive multiplayer modes called Garden & Graveyards and Team Vanquish, and a four-player co-operative mode called Garden Ops. In Garden & Graveyards, plants must defend their garden bases from zombies attempting to turn them into spooky graveyards. Players can also square off in Team Vanquish as they try to send the other team to the compost pile. For gamers that just want to have a fun time with their friends, they can work together in Garden Ops battling off waves of zombies on the attack.

On Xbox One, Plants vs. Zombies Garden Warfare includes two extra modes including local cooperative split screen and Boss Mode. With split screen, players can team up with a friend on the couch to fight against an endless horde of zombies. In Boss Mode, gamers can utilize their Kinect or a SmartGlass device in any of the other gameplay modes to support their teams. Players have a top-down view of the battlefield and can help out their teammates with intel, health drops, revive stations and explosive artillery strikes.

Plants vs. Zombies Garden Warfare is available for pre-order at major retailers nationwide and at http://www.origin.com for $39.99 for Xbox One and $29.99 for Xbox 360. A PC version will be available at a later date.

For more information on Plants vs. Zombies Garden Warfare please visit http://www.popcap.com/plants-vs-zombies-garden-warfare. To join the conversation on Plants vs Zombies Garden Warfare, please visit https://www.facebook.com/plantsversuszombies, follow us on Twitter® at https://twitter.com/PlantsvsZombies and #PvZ.

MusclePharm Assault New Formula Review

assault2013_productpage_web_v2_01

In this Gamer Fitness review, we are looking at the new formula of MusclePharm’s Assault pre-workout supplement drink mix. The version of Assault we tested was the Pineapple Mango flavor and was sent to us by MusclePharm via Bodybuilding.com.

Packaging

MusclePharm has been a marketing machine for the last couple years – utilizing well-designed labels and strategies to drive their products home and Assault is no exception. The jar itself is a black plastic but the label is bright with its aesthetically-pleasing white and green touches. It also sports the UFC logo which MusclePharm is listed as the “Official Supplement Provider” to.

assault-ingredients

Usage

The directions instruct the user to mix one scoop of Assault with water and drink about fifteen minutes prior to your workout. They also recommend that the user drinks 1 gallon of water per day! That is quite a bit of water but you will need it to help flush out all of the extra compounds in Assault that your body doesn’t utilize. Also, if you are doing intense workouts, you should be losing a lot of water by way of sweat, so it won’t hurt to drink that much. I have always been leery of sports supplements that tout delicious flavor. In fact – of all the supplements I have ever tried, the best tasting are from Cytosport – but, I digress… Drinking down the pineapple mango Assault with 8 ounces of water, I was pleasantly surprised. The flavor is not close the best I have ever had. However, it was decent and I don’t have any hesitation of tasting it again. I would not recommend trying to drink it down with milk – stick to water like the instructions recommend. Also, cold water helps it taste better than using room temperature water.

Effects

About fifteen minutes after drinking my first serving of Assault, I noticed a slight tingling sensation in the tips of my ears, which eventually moved down to the sides of my neck. I also noticed a little bit of stomach rumbling but nothing too bad. About twenty five minutes after drinking, I felt that slight tingling sensation also around my upper torso. Along with this tingle, I also felt noticeably more aware and energized. I used Assault for a couple weeks, every other day before weight training and running. This tingling sensation did subside somewhat after the first few uses – not sure if my body just needed to adjust to the compounds in the supplement or what. Thankfully, the increased energy did translate to more focused and intense workouts. I run to the iOS app, “Zombies,Run!’ and I noticed that I was able to outrun the random zombie hordes way more often than I did before using Assault. Finally, I should mention that I did not suffer from any “crash” of energy after its effects wore off – kudos to MusclePharm for that!

Conclusions

MusclePharm’s new incarnation of its pre-workout supplement, Assault, seems to provide a good amount of additional energy as well as decent taste. You can check out the official Assault product page for purchasing information.

[easyreview title=”MusclePharm Assault New Formula Review Score” cat1title=”Overall Score (out of 5)” cat1detail=”” cat1rating=”4″ ]

[button target=”_blank” style=”” class=”btn_blue” link=”http://gamingshogun.com/gamingshogun-rating-system/”]Learn About Our Rating System[/button]

Legal Notice: Please consult a doctor before engaging dieting changes or physical activity.

Swann Unveils DIY Compact Security System

SWDVK-81504W

Santa Fe Springs, Calif. – November 20, 2013 – Swann Security, the global leader in security monitoring solutions, announces its new do-it-yourself Compact Security System. This multi-channel system is part of Swann’s Advanced Series line that uses D1 high definition recording technology. As compared to traditional “CIF” systems, D1 provides a 4X larger and clearer picture without sacrificing real-time (30 frames-per-second) recording and live viewing.

Swann’s 1500 Compact series offers a four/eight/sixteen-channel monitoring system that includes clear resolution and weather resistant PRO-540™ cameras.

The PRO-540 camera uses SwannTruColor image-sensing technology to provide 650TV lines of clear, focused D1 clear definition video. To provide the most detail possible, the camera records in color during the day, but takes advantage of 24 infra-red LED’s to record in black and white at night at a range of 65 feet. These cameras are designed to match any décor for indoor use and are also weatherproof for outdoor applications. For increased security, the camera’s cable is threaded through the stand to prevent intruders from cutting the feed.

To allow for easy, set and forget monitoring, the on-board hard drive allows for up to 30 days of continuous recording. Using the motion-detection feature you can extend continuous recording up to months at a time and the SATA hard drive can be upgraded to up to 4TB for even more storage capacity.

Especially useful with multichannel monitoring systems is Swann’s SmartSearch ™ on-screen activity tracking functionality. This latest technology allows users to easily select key locations, such as doorways or stairwells, and track the video history on-screen with the simple click of a mouse. By identifying activity in these key locations, users can streamline the monitoring process across many channels and know that the most susceptible locations of their home or office are safe and secure.

Each security system includes a unique QR code and ID number to set up and remotely view your home or business. In minutes Swannlink allows quick and easy set up of your Swann security system to the internet, smartphone or tablet with no complicated network configuration.

SwannLink connectivity uses peer-to-peer technology, a new method of connecting to the internet using the SwannLink server in the cloud and a product ID number. Once scanned, the QR code checks the ID number on the server and confirms your username and password. It then connects you directly to your Swann DVR using a secure 128-bit encrypted connection. So, in no time you can watch your security cameras from almost anywhere with ease.

Once your DVR is linked to the Internet and the SwannView plus app, the connection is safe and secure. The SwannLink server performs a handshake between the DVR and your computer, smartphone and tablet, creating an encrypted connection over the internet without the need for network configuration or a local network server.

Perfect for anyone who is frequently away from their home or office for long periods of time, the Compact Security System can be connected to the Internet for secure, remote monitoring. The free SwannView Plus app is compatible with PC, iOS and Android devices and allows for viewing of your system from anywhere in the world.

Compact Security Camera System

Connect the compact DVR system to the internet to know what’s happening day or night for 24-hour security and peace of mind.

• Compact DVR system offers professional, state-of-the-art monitoring in one compact package
• Weatherproof cameras provide color recording during the day and black and white recording at night
• Twenty-four infra-red LEDs provide 65 feet of night time viewing
• D1 high definition is 4x the image quality of traditional “CIF” security systems, with no loss of frame rate
• Set and forget by recording continuously for days onto the on-board hard drive
• Monitor activity remotely via computer, smartphone or tablet using the free SwannView app
• Connects to a TV or LCD monitor for on-location monitoring
• Easily find recorded footage of key locations like doorways and stairwells using SmartSearch on-screen activity tracking
• Housed in a sleek, stylish and compact form, the Security System is designed to match any home décor and fit discretely in any location at home or in the office
• Easy, do-it-yourself installation with cables, connectors and mounting hardware included

Available

Swann’s Compact 1500 security systems are available from Fry’s Electronics, Best Buy (US and Canada) B&H, Micro Center, Brandsmart, Tiger Direct and Sam’s Club in the following configurations:

• DVR4-1500 with four-channel 500 GB D1 DVR and two PRO-540™ 600 TVL cameras $299.99
• DVR4-1500 with four-channel 500 GB D1 DVR and four PRO-540™ 600 TVL cameras $399.99
• DVR8-1500 with eight-channel 500 GB D1 DVR and four PRO-540™ 600 TVL cameras $449.99
• DVR8-1500 with eight-channel 500 GB D1 DVR and eight PRO-540™ 600 TVL cameras $549.99
• DVR16-1500 with eight-channel 500 GB D1 DVR and eight PRO-540™ 600 TVL cameras $649.99

Swann stands by its promise of Lifetime Support to make advanced security easy to use, install and maintain. Everything is included in the package; but if you need assistance, Swann’s help desk is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week for the life of the product.

Speedball 2 HD Gets PC Launch Date

ss_3d27a1a66485c34f4145479ec2e52682937b3bce.1920x1080

LONDON, November 19, 2013 – Most people forget their godfather. He gets lost in the mists of time as we grow older – unless of course excellent birthday and Christmas presents arrive and remind us of his influence on our younger days. With Christmas heaving into view, the folks at Mastertronic are reintroducing two Godfathers of indie gaming and want you to come along for the ride – reintroducing a revamped edition of a classic, unforgettable indie just in time for the holidays, Speedball 2 HD!

Speedball 2 HD has been developed by Vivid Games—hailed as Indie Developer of 2013 by Appster—and designed, directed and produced by Jon Hare and Mike Montgomery (The Bitmap Brothers) and will release on Steam and Get Games on December 5 for $9.99.  Featuring over 330 unique players, new formations and six new arenas of frenetic future sports action, Speedball 2 HD is as hard as nails and as lovely as an unexpected gift from a godfather you had somehow forgotten.

In the ‘90s Sensible Software and The Bitmap Brothers were two of the leading lights of the independent development scene, releasing a batch of games that have become classics and inspired many of today’s leading Indies to get into game development. Sensible World of Soccer, The Chaos Engine, Magic Pockets and Cannon Fodder are some of the amazing games Jon Hare and Mike Montgomery helped bring to the world of gaming.

“Over the years so many of today’s Indie developers have been telling us how much our games meant to them, some asking us to bring them back on digital formats and some even begging us to be able to get involved with the development themselves,” said Jon Hare. “Speedball 2 HD proves that the synergy between old classic titles and modern digital formats, along with wise old heads working with fresh new talent has never been stronger.”

“Speedball 2 HD is a faithful remake of the original futuristic cybersports game,” said Mike Montgomery. “It is as arresting and enjoyable as ever and we’ve added some cool updates to allow today’s gamers to connect with it on their favorite platforms.”

Logitech PowerShell Controller and Battery Announced

powershell-controllerbattery-images-hp

NEWARK, Calif. — Nov. 20, 2013 — Logitech (SIX: LOGN) (NASDAQ: LOGI), a leading innovator of gaming peripherals, today introduced the Logitech® PowerShell™ Controller + Battery – providing console-style game controls and increasing game play-time on your iPhone 5s, iPhone 5, or iPod touch (5th generation) running iOS 7.

To use this first-of-its-kind mobile gaming console, you simply insert your compatible iPhone or iPod touch into the controller as you would with a standard case. The analog off-screen controls of the Logitech PowerShell Controller + Battery deliver a gaming experience that’s familiar to console players everywhere, with a D-pad, shoulder triggers and face buttons that allow you to control game play.

Dropsy Getting Dev Help from Devolver Digital

41bbc0bf6848dc43223504c0eb413f49_large__large

Homeland, Florida – — Independent developer Jay Tholen and rogue game publisher Devolver Digital have announced their hug-filled partnership on the open world adventure game Dropsy to PC, Mac, and Linux in October 2014.

Dropsy is a non-traditional take on the classic point and click adventure formula starring the game’s perpetually carefree namesake clown as he explores a richly detailed world full of colorful characters and sinister secrets, doling out hugs along the way. Rather than lead players on a singular narrative path, players are free to choose which avenues of adventure they want to explore in an open world setting and can piece the puzzles and story together however they choose.

During the quest to clear his name after a deadly circus fire, Dropsy will encounter a peculiar cast of folk to communicate with through visual icons rather than the traditional text dialog trees. Through these rudimentary conversations, Dropsy takes players on a self-aware journey of self-discovery with a story that harnesses powerful themes of love and redemption – Dropsy the character is an outsider, longing for a community to call his own. Along his adventure, players will find answers to geographically based puzzles, unravel dark and shameful secrets from his past, and collect fancy items to stuff in his elastic waistband for use along the way. Oh, and Dropsy can also talk to animals.

Originating as a “choose your own adventure” game in 2008, Dropsy has made its way to a full-fledged adventure game through the support of backers on Kickstarter. While Dropsy quickly surpassed its $14,000 funding goal, the Devolver Digital team has pledged additional development, marketing, and production funds to help Jay Tholen and his team fully realize Dropsy without compromising anywhere along the way.

“You had me at visual dialog,” remarked Devolver Digital CFO, Fork Parker. “We’re going to save a boatload of cash on localization.”

Fans of oddly carefree clowns and Devolver Digital productions can visit www.dropsytheclown.com to pre-order Dropsy and grab other fancy rewards while the Kickstarter is still live. Follow @DropsyTheClown on Twitter to keep up with development updates and other news.

Bluetooth Galileo Starts Shipping

Motrr_Galileo-Black-2x

Santa Cruz, Calif. – November 20, 2013 – Motrr, led by the designers of Gorillapod™ camera tripods, is now shipping the Bluetooth version of its popular Galileo robotic dock, compatible with iPhone 5/5S/5C, iPhone 4S and iPod Touch 5th generation. The original 30-pin model attracted $702,427 in pledges when it first launched on Kickstarter in 2012, more than seven times the fundraising goal. Among the first apps to integrate with the new Bluetooth model is remote-monitoring app Airbeam, while Presence app works great with the original 30-pin model.

“Galileo is a platform that third party app developers are continuing to adopt for many uses, including video conferencing, time lapse photography, remote monitoring and more,” said Jasper Eisenberg, Marketing Manager at Motrr. “Airbeam and Presence are two apps optimized for use with Galileo, making remote monitoring more immersive, easy and affordable.”

Imagine being able to confidently make sure a young child in another room is playing safely, keep an eye on pets before they destroy furniture, check in on home while away, or have a tool to inspect places that are difficult to view directly otherwise such as an attic or basement.

Using the AirBeam app ($3.99) with Galileo, users can turn an iPhone or iPod Touch into a real-time HD video and audio monitoring system, watching the stream on a second smartphone, tablet or web browser. Users can even set up multiple Galileos to view multiple screens simultaneously, thereby covering every angle of their home for a complete video monitoring solution. If the subject of interest moves out of frame, simply swipe on the viewing device and the camera will rotate to keep the subject in view.  AirBeam is compatible with Galileo Bluetooth and Galileo 30-pin. View AirBeam in action at www.youtube.com/watch?v=qah0wDO5BtI and learn more by visiting appologics.com/airbeam.

The Presence app (free) also allows for remote surveillance over Wi-Fi and cellular data so users can monitor their home, garage, office or other areas of interest from anywhere in the world. Settings can be customized to send alerts and short video clips when motion is detected. Presence is compatible with Galileo 30-pin. View Presence in action at www.youtube.com/watch?v=0u_PI93UfjI and learn more by visiting motrr.com/apps-presence.html.

The Motrr Galileo, $149.95, is available now in two versions – Bluetooth (compatible with iPhone 5/5S/5C, iPhone 4S and iPod Touch 5th generation) and 30-pin (compatible with iPhone 4/4S, iPhone 3GS & iPod Touch 4th generation). Learn more about Motrr by visiting motrr.com and browse the full list of compatible apps at motrr.com/apps.html.