Sunday, December 31, 2006

Kid Friendly Games

by Sandra Stammberger

Kids love to mimic the adults in every whatever fashion that they see adults do. They see their elders tinker on computers; theyd love to bang on the computer as well. Parents would love nothing more than to indulge their kids in everything that could be useful to them. The dilemma that parents usually face is if the kid computer games that they are after are really kid friendly. So how can parents choose from among the hundreds of computer games that are circulating in the market?

The following suggests upgrading your computer to suit the computing ability of your children followed by suggested kid computer game tips.

If your computer has seen its days it will be better to upgrade your computer so it runs on newer versions. Nowadays, a $600 machine will serve the purpose (you may even find one that throws in a printer. For a few dollars more, you can add the software and needed pheriperals. What you should be looking for are machines that have a 40 gigabyte HDD, with 256 megabytes of memory.

Equip the PC with a cute mouse. While a regular mouse will work with your children, a specialized smaller mouse will help them navigate through your PC better.

How much video time? While it is important that a child spends time with a computer, it is just as good if their screen time is monitored. Two hours of video time including TV time is recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Suggested software. MyABCD - animated and educational childrens software program. IncrediBubble - colored cube puzzles. QBz - Clear the board of colorful QBeez characters. This is a brain buster with attitude. BabyKeys - designed to satisfy the curiosity of children ages 6 months through 3 years. Sveerz Deluxe - a musical matching game that bounces to the beat. Dinos and Bubbles - Cute dinosaurs out on a magical quest of fire. Origami Master - a magic paper art for children. Creative Painter - a magic drawing software. Cynthias wedding, Henry & Harley, Ninas Wish - are magic story game of the loving box series. Fox Jones: The Treasures of El Dorado - development of the Bombermann and Eric and Floaters games. Foosball Play - play Table Football against the computer or against up to 8 people on a network. Quest Pro - creating you own adventure games easily. Gutterball Game - a 3D bowling game. Realistic, fun and attitude filled fast paced game. Flip Words Youll flip over our new word game: Gets the child flipping words and solving familiar phrases. Best Friends - Guide Petey and Patty through the jungle world, ice world and dream world. Aqua Words - Aquatic (the Hero) guides kids to solving puzzles. Spelvin - A spelling game for kids that will take him to a land of glitter and lights. Cactus Bruce - Corporate monkeys against evil corporate monkeys, Cactus Bruce uses his one ton claw machine. BattlePets: The kid will have fun in catching training and battling against little creatures.

Hundreds more are out there! Another alternative would be downloading demo games, or shareware games. These games are advertised online so that you may try out the game first before deciding to buy.



Kids love to explore! Kids love Magic Tricks! Get innstructions for a number of magic tricks with tips on how to become a successful magician at: Learn Magic Trick

Thursday, December 21, 2006

Download Free Full PC Game

by Anna Josephs

Today variety of games are available in the market as technology change. So it very difficult to select one of them.

Online game is the best way to select your favorite games as there are dozens of Massively-Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games and many more. It is hard to decide which online game to play.computer games allow to free download game.

Kids love to play computer games as there interesting and exciting games are available. Games can be played online but if you lost the Internet connection you will not be able to complete your game It is very much boring and unfair! So, it is better to download the game. You can download full game or demo version of the game and then you can play according to your convenience.

Many site offer you free download games, without paying anything you can enjoy the different games. Now you dont have to buy or spend money to play games. Form fun games to educational games you get all types of game to entertain yourself.

Even small kids can play online games and it will help kids to get more familiars with the computer. Online game is long lasting as its never get damaged or destroyed so you dont have to worry about losing your favorite game.

Download today and start playing computer games to have fun and entertain yourself. Computer gives a game world to children to enjoy there life.

I am Free Lance writer and currently for this website Free PC Download Game I have just started to write article and press releases which are related to this mentioned site. This article is prepared on the basis of reliable sources. If you find any error or mistake in this article please email us immediately at this email address annajosephs@gmail.com so that we can take immediate action.


This article is written by Anna josephs, writer of the website Free PC Download Game This article is published only for the educational and information purpose. All the information are collected from the reliable sources of related product.

Wednesday, December 20, 2006

10 Questions To Ask Yourself And Determine If You Are Spyware Savvy

by Chris Young

Most of us who use computers are afraid of spyware and the problems it causes. So, you learn all about spyware and the ways to protect yourself from it. How will you know whether you have complete knowledge? Well what you can do is to surf the World Wide Web for the latest on spyware and computer security.

You can test your knowledge by taking self-tests and quizzes. Companies like Microsoft are very consumer friendly and make an effort to upload tons of information on computers and software for users in search of knowledge.

According to Microsoft you can test your knowledge by answering the following questions:

1. How will you prevent children from accidentally downloading spyware?

The answer must be: You can prevent children from downloading spyware by giving them a limited user account.

2. What are browser cookies?

Ans: These are created by unethical persons to track your browsing preferences for their own use, to spam your pc with advertisements and marketing ploys, to steal personal information like bank account details, credit card numbers and so on, and to cause harm to your computer and business by stealing data/files.

3. How can you use technology to protect your computer?

Ans: Many giants in computer technology are offering software and hardware to prevent spyware attacks. For example Windows Defender Beta 2 is one option.

4. What is Windows Defender?

Ans: It is an anti-spyware software that can detect spyware and warn you immediately, inform you of possible dangers and new spywares, remove spyware. It protects your PC against pop ups, slow functioning, security threats, and infections.

5. What are common signs that show your computer is infected?

Ans: Signs are unwarranted pop ups, strange PC behavior, change in homepage settings, appearance of new tool bars not installed by you, slowing down of computer, loss of files, crashing of computer, and so on. 6. What are the precautions to be taken? Ans: Precautions are: install a fire wall, update all software, pay attention to security settings, use anti-spyware programs, use the internet safely.

7. Is a firewall useful?

Ans: Yes, it examines all information and acts as a filter anything even faintly suspicious will not be permitted, it will create a protective cloak and prevent undesirable sources from detecting your computer on the net.

8. How does spyware work and what protects your computer?

Ans: A spyware is a thief it can use information on you, steal files, and place undesirable material on your computer. The pc must be protected by use of firewall, anti-spyware hardware as well as software, and careful browsing as well as downloads.

9. Where can you get protection against spyware?

Ans: There are many choices a few are: Platinum Internet security 2005, Microsoft Beta 2, Webroot Spy Sweeper, Sunbelt Counter Spy, and Spybot.

10. Name three security measures?

Ans: One must not open e-mails with attachments from unknown sources; use a spam guard for all e-mail accounts, and avoid using messengers.

These days knowledge is available at the click of a mouse button so update your knowledge base and keep abreast of new developments.


Chris Young is a freelance writer for Free Online Games,the premier website to play thousands of free online games including arcade games, action games, card games, flash games, strategy games, puzzle games and more.

Tuesday, December 19, 2006

Who Plays Computer Games?

by Tony Brings

Playing computer games was once reserved for the geek of the class who would shut himself away until the early hours of the morning with no company apart from a joystick. This has changed significantly as the standard of graphics and game play has improved and the use of computers is even more widely accepted. The advance of the Internet has also made sure that online gaming has become increasingly popular allowing people from all around the world to play against one another or in huge online tournaments. The appeal has spread significantly to what it once was.

The first generation of gamers are growing older now and this is coinciding with the introduction of next generation console games that look and sound much better than was ever dreamt possible ten or twenty years ago. AS such, many of these early gamers continue to play console games and computer games meaning what was predominantly a childrens market is shifting upwards in age. It is by no means uncommon for people in their twenties and thirties to be buying the latest games.

As well as being younger, the game market used to consist of almost solely males. Again, this has changed. AS technology has become more and more accessible and accepted in the form of cell phones and computers, the playing of computer games has also increased and there are many girls and women who are just as comfortable behind a control pad or a joystick as the men.

One more factor that has changed in the gaming world is that playing computer games is a solitary existence. Again, the stereotype of previous generations of gamers is kids locked in bedrooms playing fantasy games until midnight. Now, well over half of the people who play computer games do so on the Internet or with their friends on a regular basis.


Tony Brings is owner of Video Gaming Champ. Find out everyhting about computer games and video games, inlcuding news and cheats.

Monday, December 18, 2006

The Art and Science of Computer Game Design

by Morgan Hamilton

For anyone that enjoys playing computer games, a career and computer game design would be a dream come true. What could possibly the more enjoyable and rewording then designing your own computer game and actually being paid for it? Some designers are paid very, very well indeed. Every fan of computer games has no doubt at least occasionally fantasized having a career in computer game design, as a gamer myself, I have thought about how cool that would be myself.

If you are dreaming of a job in the computer game design industry, the good news is its a huge industry and there are loads of jobs available and it pays remarkably well if you should happen to come up with a hot seller. The bad news is that it is very difficult to learn the requisite programming skills that are required. Getting a degree in computer science is a solid beginning, but theres nothing easy about achieving that either. Of the six friends I had in college that were computer science majors, only one of them has the fortitude to see it through and actually get a degree. It is a grueling major filled with advanced mathematics classes and tedious programming exercises. You really have to be smart, and you really have to be motivated.

If these things sound like something you could handle that a computer game design career may be something you could do. You will definitely need a deep abiding affection for computer games, but thats pretty obvious isnt it? My college friend that got his computer science degree is currently working for a well knowing game design company, and absolutely loves it. He will tell you though, that it is nowhere near the fun and games that he first imagined it would be.

Computer games today have absolutely huge amounts of complex code and can take years to complete. In the infancy of the game industry, computer game design teams often consisted of just a few people. Nowadays, a lot of the games have many different production teams all working simultaneously on a project, with each working in their own field of expertise.

For the really skilled programmers, there is no limit to what you can achieve. Experienced programmers with a proven track record under their belts can not only command a large salary but can have a lot of creative input over the direction of the game.

There are some other job in the computer game design industry and programming does not interest you. Generally, programmers are the most sought after, but good graphic artists and writers can be attractive employees to say game design producers. They may not be paid as well, but they most certainly still make an excellent living in the ever burgeoning industry of computer game design.


Morgan Hamilton offers expert advice and great tips regarding all aspects concerning games. Get the information you are seeking now by visiting Computer Game Design

Sunday, December 17, 2006

"Parenting Tip: 7 Ways to Complement Computer Games and Unleash Your Childs Creative Genius"

by Paul Arinaga

Copyright 2006 Paul Arinaga

Even though we may enjoy playing them ourselves, many parents worry about the impact of computer games on their childs development. We fear that letting our kids play computer games for more than an hour or so per day will turn them into anti-social, obese couch potatoes. It would be better to have our children read or to read child stories to them, we think. Yet, computer games are here to stay, so rather than fighting them, why not use them? This article shows you how you can let your child play computer games yet still foster the development of their creativity.

The issue that many parents have with computer games is that, compared with reading a child story, they dont require the use of a great deal of imagination. Here are seven ways in which you can complement computer games to foster the development of your childs creativity:

#1 Develop character profiles

Some computer games have characters. With the Harry Potter games these characters are already well-known and well-developed. With other games, however, the characters may be more "shallow". This is a perfect opportunity for your child to develop the characters further. They can invent a profile for the character, imagining who their family is, where they come from, where they go/went to school, what hobbies they like to do, how they feel, etc. Your child can then make sketches or drawings of the character and scenes from their life: past, present and future. Finally, your child can create profiles of the other people in the characters life: friends, family, pets, colleagues, droids, etc.

#2 Create Storyboards

If you think about it, a lot of computer games are nothing more than interactive stories. So, your child can create their own stories using the characters from their favorite computer games. Think of this as an extension of the computer game. You could even pretend that you work for the computer game company and are creating a new version of the computer game.

There are several ways you can approach this depending upon you and your childs preferences. You can write a script, create cartoon-like illustrations, create illustrated scenes (i.e. pictures) only, or create pictures with accompanying text.

#3 Write a Diary

It could be interesting for your child to get inside the head of some of the characters. Incidentally, this is also a good way to develop a childs empathy. Have your child write a diary as if they were one of the characters.

#4 Develop a Virtual World

One of my sons has developed his own virtual world. Hes created detailed maps, descriptions of all the creatures, plants (more than 100 in all, fully illustrated) and lands in it, and a complete history of this imaginary world. Your child can create a virtual world that is either an extension from an existing computer game or something completely new.

#5 Whats Cooking?

If your child likes to cook, why not develop some special recipes of what people eat in the computer games virtual world? Whats their favorite food? What is the national dish? These "recipes" could be from real, edible foods or other non-edible materials (make sure your kid doesnt eat the latter!).

#6 Get Hands On

Some children are kinesthetic learners; they learn by doing. If your child is one of these, they can create 3D models from clay or papier mâché of the characters from a computer game. You can even create life-sized models in your garden/backyard. For example, you can carve a character from an old tree stump or log.

#7 Create Your Own Computer Game

In the area of computer games, what could be more creative than creating your own game? When they create a game, computer game companies go through a process similar to some of the steps described here so you might be able to use the results of your fun work to create an actual computer game.

There are hundreds or thousands of software tools you can use to create your own games. However, unless youre a "techie", its probably easiest to use one that doesnt require any programming or advanced computer skills.

Software tools such as "The 3D Gamemaker",* for example, allow you to create games simply by pointing and clicking. The 3D Gamemaker has a library of scenes, sounds and 3D objects that you can combine into your own games. Obviously, this is a bit less creative then making a game from scratch, but you can also scan in your own images, record your own personal sound effects and import your own 3D models to make your game more original.

The Multi-Choice Creation System (MuCeS) lets you create Multichoice adventures in which the game player chooses one option out of a number of given options depending on what she thinks will be best for a given situation.

The above are only two examples of the possibilities. The point is that you dont need to be a "rocket scientist" in order to create your own computer games. Imagine how thrilled your kids will be to create their own games. Playing computer games will never be the same again!

Conclusion

Some parents regard computer games as an "unhealthy" influence on their children, but when you combine computer games with some of the "offline" child story creation activities described here, youll not only unleash your childs creative genius, youll have a lot of fun doing it.

* Note: I have not (yet) used any of the software described here. The products mentioned are provided purely as examples.


Paul Arinaga is founder of The Child Stories Bank, http://www.child-stories-bank.com The Child Stories Bank provides FREE original childrens stories, writers resources and a directory of child story illustrators.

Saturday, December 16, 2006

Different Categories of Computer Games

By: David Chandler

Computer games can be categorized mainly into PC games that are played in your computer after installation using the CDs that contain the software, downloadable pc games, and the online games. Many websites provide you with the downloadable version of the PC games.

Category based on permission to use

The games can be categorized based on licenses. Some of the games are free and they can be downloaded on the internet free. Some pc games are free downloadable games but are shareware. Shareware games have limitations in the features. Some of the shareware can be used for only 30 days time and some are limited by the number of times that software is used. Trial versions of the software are also available which are time limited or feature limited.

Online Games

Online games are those that are played online. The user who is playing the online games should have an internet connection in his PC. You should be aware that your internet bill is on the rise during the time you play the online games. Yahoo games are one among the popular online games. Many websites provide you online games. Some of the sites require you to become a member to play these online games. Some charge you on per game basis for playing.

PC Games

PC Games are those that require an installation through a CD to play the pc games. Some of the games even require the CD to be present in the CD drive to play the game. These software CDs are to be purchased by the user. There are many pc games available like Tomb Raider that requires you to purchase the CD. Most of the games that contain Car races and Motorbike races require the software to be installed through the CD bought by you.

Downloadable PC Games

These games can be downloaded from the internet and can be installed in your computer. Most of the free game downloads are small enough to be downloaded from the internet. There websites like www.download.com that can be searched for free game downloads. A good search engine would give you thousands of links to free downloadable games.

What you need in your PC to play these games?

Most of the games can be played without any additional hardware. If you are having the latest configuration of the PC, which has the software pre-installed in your computer, then you might not need any additional software to be installed. Some of the online games require you to install plug-ins to run the online games. Plug-in is additional software that is required to run an application in your computer. You will be provided appropriate links to download the plug-ins required by your browser or your computer. You need to check the system requirements for the computer games that is downloaded or installed in your system and install them before you start playing the game.


For more information, visit www.ComputerGamesInfo.com" target="_blank"> www.ComputerGamesInfo.com
Provided By: Computers and Technology

Friday, December 15, 2006

Computer Games in the Childs Life

by Tyler Benson

People play different games. They like it. Maybe because we all are inborn actors and want to be more than we are in our real lives. Among a great variety of all the games we play once in a while, my special concern is about computer games. Their primary meaning was to give us a sort of rest from a monotonous routine life. Sometimes this rest grows into psychological computer addiction. Not to let this happen with your child, observe some simple rules. Do not let him/her play the same game for a long time. Any person and especially children must have rest after playing computer games. The rest should be two or three times longer than the time spent at the PC. So, lets do some Math. If you child is ten years old, he should spend no more than 20 -30 minutes at the computer with the time off for an hour or two. Never let your children play before they go to bed and of course night is meant for sleep not for sitting at the computer.

There are two opposite opinions concerning the effect of computer games on children. The first consider that virtual reality contributes to development of childs mental abilities, forming useful skills for future work in an informational society. Then I do not see why so many students prefer to order custom research paper instead of using their own heads. They prefer to apply their brains in virtual reality than for practical use. I believe this is the psychology of many modern young people. Surely between writing a political essay and online games they will choose the latter. The others believe that computer games are the main source of juvenile violence. A lot of computer games contain the episodes with violence in their worst form. As a result a child does not distinguish the line between the virtual and real life. A teenager committing a serious crime does not understand why the killed can not be revived with a single click of mouse.

The most urgent and important issues of children and computers coexistence are discussed in the article by Jennifer Burg and Beth Cleland "Computer- Enhanced or Computer - Enchanted", which can be found at imej.wfu.edu/articles/EDMEDIA2001paper/index.asp.

BestEssays.com - Essay papers writing service


Tyler Benson is a senior writer of www.BestEssays.com. For more than five years, Tyler Benson has written the number of projects on History, History of Migration, Ancient and Asian History. He has 17 years of experience as the professor at several universities.

Thursday, December 14, 2006

Integrate Fun and Learning with PC Games

by GrandMatrix Team

Children are always up for a good game. Well, who isnt? Pretend that you are back in school. For the rest of the class period you have two choices as to how you can spend your time. Option #1 is to struggle through endless arithmetic and English worksheets without any feedback except for a stamp that says "Great Job!" Option #2 is to work on the same arithmetic and English content, but on a computer. Yes, you can play a computer game to learn your numbers and verbs. Which option would you choose? Which option would children most likely choose? Option #2 of course!

Using computer software in education is not a new concept. Computer games have been used as a learning tool for the past two decades because they help students with basic skills, logic, problem solving, and various other academic skills. The Oregon Trail was a popular computer game in the 1980s. This game helped students to work on their planning and problem solving skills. If you have ever played that game you might have realized that it was difficult to complete the trail. Everyone in my wagon always died of Cholera. Parents and educators that are unfamiliar with computer game technology may automatically dismiss the use of computer games for learning. They view computer games as nothing but "shoot em up" and mind numbing entertainment. As avid computer gamers we all know that they are way off base. Just think of all the problem solving, logic, and planning that goes into working on a team in a computer game, playing a puzzle, or figuring out a code.

There are computer games that are specifically based around educational learning standards. These games explicitly include counting, grammar, etc. They range from learning software that has a battery of tests to mimic standardized testing to fun, interactive learning games such as Caillou Magic Playhouse. This game allows a child to learn about numbers, patterns, spelling, phonics, and many other skills.

One advantage of using computer games in education is that the student is learning whether they realize it or not. Many children sigh when it is time to work on multiplication, but if you bring out a computer game - poof! They suddenly want to go through their multiplication tables. The computer game presents the same academic material, but makes it fun by integrating colorful animations and cool sounds. Plus, computer games allow for instant feedback and gratification. We have become a society that runs on instant gratification. A computer game can provide this feedback and it can also provide a means of competition. You will be stretched to find a student that wants to "beat" their worksheet, but a child who wants to beat a computer game? You will find them everywhere you look.

Computer games are advertised as forms of entertainment, which they most certainly are, but they are learning avenues as well. Gamers of all ages are learning every time they play a game. For example, there are games that work on your business skills. Games like Lemonade Tycoon and Mall Tycoon are prime examples. You are learning the skills to succeed in a business through simulation. Simulation is how many professionals acquire the skills for their occupation. Even though you are in a computerized environment, you can still come across many different business situations.

Computer software is here to stay. Email will one day override handwritten communication and perhaps games will take over traditional education. Granted games most likely will not take over traditional education, but they should become part of the educational experience. A child is learning while playing a computer game. Their memory and reaction time increases. They are sharpening various parts of their brain. The key is to play a mixture of games that range from pure entertainment to ones that are specifically designed for educational skill sets.

If your child or student is having trouble with math, English or any academic subject, set them up with a computer game. Their interest in learning will soar. Computer games can bring any student that is hesitant about school to learning whether they realize it or not. Computer games make learning fun.


The team at GrandMatrix.com provide a broad range of games and puzzle articles and reviews. Read more articles and play the latest PC games for free plus thousands of user submitted puzzles, quizzes and word games at GrandMatrix Free Game Downloads

Wednesday, December 13, 2006

PC Computer Game - Engaging Realism And Imagination

by John Rivers

The development of personal computer games from simple multimedia exercises to the current trend that involves very sophisticated graphics, operating system and surround sound system have been very fast and impressive.

The varieties of games that are being marketed online and in the regular outlets account for thousand of varieties. The games range from strategic, real time, role playing, shoot em up, beat em up, third person shooters, racing and simulation to name the most popular.

As video stores are selling a multitude of choices, it is smart that parents use good judgment in the games that children play on their Personal computers. The best way to do this is to check the package information of the game about the age groups that the game is intended for.

This is important as some games contain very violent scenes, sexual themes, the use of tobacco, alcohol and illegal drugs. However, parental settings that are printed on the packaging label make it possible for guardians to password protect parts of the game so that the more adult parts of the games are not being accessed while the child still enjoys a perfectly playable version.

Because of the variety of games being marketed, choices can prove to be a challenge. It is not uncommon for the buyer to choose a game that has been recommended by a friend. However if you want something that is different, it is not enough to pick the game that will be interesting to you personally, or to the person that the personal computer game is intended for. Remember to look also on the Minimum PC requirements.

Another factor that is also to be considered is what the game is for. There are games that offer purely gaming enjoyment while there are those that are educational and informative. Some are especially designed for children, toddlers, teenagers, they come virtually for all age groups and intentions. Some of the best family games combine education with entertainment.

The largest groups of games and the best selling are the mind games. These are basically designed for adults and will take hours of playing.

Adventure games are onee of the oldest variety. The design of these games often includes a number of very beautifully drawn locations. Adventure games, unlike most other game designs, involve lateral thinking. The player travels from place to place in quest of an objective. The player often meets villains or impediments in his search for clues. Another component of adventure gaming is humor.

Another big seller for personal computer games are action heroes. The focus here is in fighting, shooting, beating the opponent up, and jumping across platforms. While this may sound violent, there are action games that are designed for children often coupled with humor and fun.

Simulators are also good sellers. Whether it be driving, sailing, flying and racing, there are simulators that are designed to familiarize the player with the actual handling of the vehicle to simulate the real one. There are even simulators that are being used for professional training.

Sports Games are very popular among the teens and early twenties. Many good personal computer sport games have been designed for realism.

Classic games like chess, backgammon and pool are also featured in many variations. The main task of these games is often to beat the computer that leaves most players very challenged.

Personal computer games today are being developed to capture the players imagination on its realism. As personal computer games have continually attracted investors and designers, expect that personal computer games will become even better in a few months to come.


John Rivers is the owner of Computer Memory Specialists. His website offers information on computer games, computer hardware and computer peripherals.

Tuesday, December 12, 2006

The World of Computer Game Design

by Morgan Hamilton

A career in computer game design the absolute heaven for any hard-core gamer. Isnt it everyones dream to do what they love and get paid for it? And how many of you out there that can show a computer games have had great ideas of how you can improve on the games that you were playing? I know I have, about a million times.

If a career in computer game design is something that you are mulling over and I have good news and I have bad. The good news is that it is a huge industry and is growing year over year. The bad news is that computer game design takes a lot of programming skills which means you had better be a very smart cookie and be prepared to work very hard in school learning the various skills that you will need. You want to start with a degree in computer science, which is much easier said than done. Of the six friends I had in college that were computer science majors, only one of them stuck with it to the end. It is a grueling major filled with advanced math classes and seemingly endless computer programming exercises.

Some people actually enjoy programming, so if youre one of them that a career in computer game design would be perfect for you. A real affection for computer games themselves would certainly go a long way as well. My college friend that got his computer science degree is currently working for a well knowing game design company, and loves it. But he will be the first one to tell you that it is nothing like what he expected.

Some computer games that are produced today are so incredibly complex that they take years to create. In the infancy of the game industry, computer game design teams often consisted of just a few people. Today, many games have several production teams consisting of up to hundreds of different people working simultaneously on different aspects of the game. If you do prove to be a capable programmer than a here in computer game design will reward you handsomely. Veteran programmers who have already completed several game designs can pretty much call their own shots as far as salary and overall creativity. It is an art and science.

If programming isnt something that appeals to then you still can work in the design industry. Programmers themselves are the king of the hill and the most sought after, but talented artists and creative writers can be attractive employees to game producers. Graphic designers and artists contribute a great deal to computer game design. Many computer game designs also feature actors to do the voice overs of the games characters as well. Theres a whole lot that goes into making these babies.


Morgan Hamilton offers his findings and insights regarding the world of compute software. You can get interesting information here at Computer Game Design

Monday, December 11, 2006

Playing Baby Computer Games - The New Parent-Child Tradition?

by Emma Rath

Imagine cuddling up with your small child to look at a picture book together that is interactive, musical, responsive and talks to you?

This is the experience that people are having who are engaged in that relatively new pastime - playing computer games with babies.

JumpStarts Knowledge Adventure calls it "lapware", Kiddies Games logo is "Hop on the lap and tap", and Sesame Streets "Baby and Me" opens with an animation of a baby monster hopping onto the lap of a Daddy monster to play the computer. Playing computer games with your baby is being promoted as a fun activity that a child and their caregiver can share together. And rightly so, because whatever the activity, physical, loving closeness is an important ingredient that infants need for healthy intellectual, emotional and physical development.

Reading a bedtime story to a small eager child is a tradition in many homes. As the children get older, this may be replaced by watching TV together. Our parents families listened to the radio together. Playing on the computer with a small child may become a new type of family tradition. Home computers and internet are making their way into more and more homes. Some parents use the computer in their work and are delighted to share the computer for a fun activity with their kids. Other parents want to make sure their children become computer literate. Well-designed, interactive, educational computer games engage small children as much as the television and are more educational than TV because they incite the child to interact and think, rather than passively watch and listen. These are the reasons for the increasing popularity of toddler computer software. Although a relatively small industry, software for infants has been cited as being a very fast growing industry.

What type of computer software is available for babies, toddlers and preschoolers? There are free games on websites and there are download and CDROM software that you can buy. Most software for this age group is games, but computer story books also exist. Wonderful websites that offer free games of which many are suitable for preschoolers (preschoolers are able to do directed clicking with the mouse) are:

http://www.sesamestreet.org/sesamestreet http://www.noggin.com http://www.cbc.ca/kidscbc http://www.abc.net.au/children/games http://www.meddybemps.com

Great free sites for babies (whose skills tend to be more limited to banging the keyboard) are:

http://www.kiddiesgames.com http://www.toddletoons.com

CDROM or download software that you buy is usually better than free internet games. The games are usually superior (more graphics, more music, more involved games for older kids) and the software takes over the entire screen, which is more appropriate for very young children who click anywhere and everywhere on the screen. Some of the well-known producers are:

Reader Rabbit software from http://www.learningcompany.com JumpStart software from http://www.knowledgeadventure.com Fisher-Price software from http://www.knowledgeadventure.com Sesame Street software from http://www.encoresoftware.com or http://www.amazon.com http://www.babywow.com

Computer game softwares for this age group make conscientious efforts to be suitably educational. To judge their effectiveness for your child, try them out with your child. If your child finds that its fun, then its probably educational. For a baby, fun usually means that the game responds in some way to random keyboard presses and mouse clicks, and that the game continues in a positive way even when no input is forthcoming from the baby. A preschooler will need more of a challenge or more educational content, but the game should be designed to be always fun, reactive in a positive way and self-resolving when the child does not get the correct answer. At this age, it is more important that computer games contribute positively to self-esteem, rather than conscientiously correcting incorrect answers about educational concepts that the child will master when theyre older anyway. The KiddiesGames.com software is meticulous about adhering to these rules.

What types of skills are learned by playing toddler computer games? Obviously, computer software is not suitable for practicing gross motor or even fine motor skills. However, there are many types of educational concepts that computer games can help a child master, including shapes, sounds, cause and effect, identifying and naming things (such as objects and colors), increasing vocabulary, language concepts, the forms of letters and numbers, counting, pattern recognition, detail observation and word construction. At KiddiesGames, we strive to offer games for small children that are out of the ordinary, such as foreign language exposure and practicing the positions on the telephone for dialing emergency. The reactiveness and interactiveness of computer software is, of course, superior to that of books, and can be superior to that of toys, especially in the area of language. Infant computer games are also being cited as excellent resources for children with special education needs, because such games are simple, happy, brightly-colored, patient, controlled by the child and allow the child to make things happen.

An official recommendation from the American Academy of Pediatrics at http://aappolicy.aappublications.org/cgi/content/full/pediatrics%3B107/2/423 is to "Discourage television viewing for children younger than 2 years, and encourage more interactive activities that will promote proper brain development, such as talking, playing, singing, and reading together." This has been taken as advice to avoid exposing those young children to the computer. However, well-designed infant software actually encourages those great activities of "talking, playing, singing, and reading together". By carrying out the play activities proposed by the computer game, the caregiver is actually prompted with a framework or script for carrying out those "talking, playing, singing, and reading" activities with the child. Experts are now saying that while computer games for infants should not replace toys and blocks and books and should not be used as an electronic babysitter, that they are yet another valid toy resource. For example, a summer 2004 newsletter from the Hawaii State Health Department at http://www.hawaii.gov/health/family-child-health/eis/summer2004 encourages playing with lapware. The emphasis is not on acquiring measurable skills or getting correct answers, but is on open-ended exploration on the part of the child - which is another way of saying "having fun". Children are programmed to learn and practice what they learned by playing and having fun.

Playing computer games with your small child is not yet a family tradition. However, it is an enjoyable, sharing activity that is becoming more and more popular.


The author of this article, Emma Rath, produces free online and purchasable download baby and preschooler software, available at http://www.kiddiesgames.com.

Sunday, December 10, 2006

Designing Computer Games

by Greg Culver

Nowadays computer games are gaining popularity with new features and concepts. There is increase in demand for computer games as new game systems are being designed and sold world wide with added facilities. Specialists of computer aided art, computer programming and computer hardware develop and produce these popular games all over the world. Specialists are themselves the game lovers who when get bored by the routine games and have new concepts and plans in their mind to make old games better. It is their love for playing games that force them to join computer game design courses, attend classes and develop new games.

The demand for computer game design courses has compelled schools and institutions of higher learning to start teaching such courses. It is the growing need of todays technology that has given the path towards this industry. Classes of such computer game design courses are occupied very soon and are costly too. There are various technology schools and institutes from where you can enroll in these courses. Students are taught basic game architecture, narrative and storytelling, motion planning and control, game balance and level design, etc in full time courses to enhance their knowledge.

No one can learn to design games in one day. He or she has to learn various techniques and tactics to design a game that could bring a revolutionary era in the world of computer game design. You can also study deeply everything about the game design like, realism, challenges, level design, plot pacing, software architecture, animated sprites, sound and music, interface techniques, 3D loading, camera control etc. this would help you further to enhance your knowledge.

You must have a good story to develop a good and attractive game that includes a beginning, plot, narrative, characters, a setting, middle and end along with emotions, consequences and interaction between the character and the player. If you are thinking of mastering the fundamentals of the computer game design course then you must be ready to meet challenges of the busy arena of computer game design. But dont worry designing a computer game is similar to writing a book, with a difference that technology is required in designing computer games.

Nowadays many people are attracted towards this career as not only this profession is interesting but is also monetarily flourishing. Some people design computer games on a freelance basis as a secondary source of income with the regular job. On the other hand there are people who earn thousands and million of dollars every year for doing their favorite job, designing games. It is a lucrative career and has great future prospects.


Greg Culver is the owner of www.kidsandgamessite.com. For information and articles on online and video games go to: www.kidsandgamessite.com

Saturday, December 9, 2006

Computer Games

by Robert Jones

Remember your old Commodore Vic 20? You were free to spend a Saturday afternoon doing nothing but playing video games--as soon as you found the game cartridge and typed in that lengthy run code. But man, it was fun!

Computer game plays have come a long way since those days in the 1980s. From pinging a white dot from paddle to paddle, to simple static non-scrolling games, to todays mind blowing sound and graphics, computer games have evolved into game categories that are played on super consoles.

Playing computer games is part of our everyday popular culture. The entertainment genre that was once reserved for idle teenagers has grown to be the favorite pastime of the average thirty year-old. The computer games marketed today are so varied in style; anyone choosing from a selection of computer game software can easily be overwhelmed by the available choices.

The latest development to boost computer game playing was the development of broadband. With this technology, two players can play games from different parts of the world. As long as the broadband connection is good, the game is played simultaneously in real time, with no lag. Because of the universal appeal, computer games have made it possible to interact with other players anywhere, despite the cultural, time or language barriers. Even toddlers can now enjoy software with games and software designed for their education and amusement.

Computer game playing has enjoyed such worldwide popularity with people of all ages, studies are now being conducted on the effects it has on players. The seemingly innocent invention has created so much attention that international assessments are underway to track the impact of these products on users behavior and thinking. Initial studies hint that computer game "bestsellers" tend to be violent or ugly game styles, but the results may be leaning to a more optimistic side.

Choosing which computer games to play is a personal choice affected by a number of factors. Taste and preference of the player are the biggest determining factors. When choosing a computer game, consider these factors to find the style that suits you:

* Challenge: What are your strong points? Logic, speed, verbalizing or coordination? Find a game that challenges you and builds your skills.

* Number of Players: Do you play well with others? Team play or opposition involves organization, multi-player strategies and building coalitions.

* Luck: If youre just plain lucky, try cards or games of chance.

* Strategies: Strategic games are great for your brain. Choose titles with deeply strategic game play.

* Ease of use: Some games are so complicated theyre just not fun to play. Kids, especially, should choose games appropriate to their age and skill.

* Reality: Does the game attempt to simulate real life, or is it an abstract game designed purely for entertainment.

* Objectives: What is the objective of the game? Do players get eliminated, or can everyone stay to the end?

* Style: There is an incredible range of themes and styles of computer games, from comical to downright violent.

Depending on your interests, you can shoot, race, fight or role-play on your computer. There are real time games, and simulation games.

Computer games have come a long, long way since those early blips and bleeps of the 1980s. Our screens are now graced with full-colour 3D graphics (although many still prefer two-dimensional games). Anytime youre ready to take a break, you can just turn on your computer and instantly disappear with the computer game of your choice.


Robert Jones contributes to several web sites, on recreation and travel and sports and recreation themes.

Friday, December 8, 2006

The Ingredients of a Great Computer Game

by Natalie Aranda

Dozens new computer games are released by amateur and professional game developers every day. Some games remain in the players mind for their complexity, challenge and fun experience, while others attending a temporary demand before falling into limbo of forgetfulness. Regardless the types of the games - action games, board games, puzzles or riddles, therere common ingredients that make a great computer games.

Match the Complexity of the Game with Players Skill Level - A large number of the most memorable and great computer games include a selectable skill level to achieve the different challenges a player might want to take. A beginner may start with a low level portion of the game yet still enjoy the fun. As the player gets used to the game, he may demand more challenge and move to next level of the game. The harder the game the more rewarding the experience is.

Easy to Learn the Rules of the Gamers - The players come to a PC game for fun. They wont spend hours to learn the rules of a new games before having fun. A game has to be simple from the playable perspective. A game too hard to understand may discourage the player no matter how good it may look. It is interesting to note how many old PC games based on text adventures without fancy graphics still remain popular. Riddle, a form of word puzzles and an ancient word game, have made its into computer games too. Some computer games have incorporated role-play, graphics and sound into riddles to make the experience of solving puzzles more fun and rewarding.

Role Play - For role play games, players want to have fun living the role of the chosen character so he or she needs to feel that it is the player who can control the outcome of the games. The idea of role-play has been widely used in other types of PC games to make a simple game more fun and interesting. Role-play could transform trivia to non-trivial.

Technology suits the current PC hardware and software - The average hardware and software capacity should be carefully assessed before developing a game. The experience of PC games are often limited by the players computer hardware, software and system resources. Users with a powerful computer may find a game worthless if the story is great but the graphics are poor. Others may be frustrated with games with the look and feel of those belonging to the early day of computerized games. Configurability satisfies both types of players. A good computer game can automatically configure itself according to the hardware and system specs. It performs well on an average computer with the possibilities to improve the gaming experience in equipment with a higher capacity.




Natalie Aranda writes on computers and games.

Thursday, December 7, 2006

Computer Game Review - Innovations And Developments

by Sandra Stammberger

The continuing advances in graphics technology, platform gaming infrastructure, processor technology and innovations in design will see more aggressive developments in computer games this 2006.

Gaming has traveled a long way today from the baby steps of the video games about thirty years ago. The square and jagged edged figures that used to dominate and entertain gamers on the screen is now more video-movie like if not life like that people today finds computer games more challenging and exciting.

The constant improvements made in computer technology exceeded expectations in the sales of computer games soft ware and has turned it into one big business in a very short span of time. The biggest impact on these games coming form the role playing games and the first person shooters.

The development of broadband had contributed very substantially to online gaming that in countries like South Korea, online gaming (Starcraft Gozu) has gathered a lot of followers dubbing the game fondly as its national sport. Online gaming has gained a popularity never seen before (or possible before), that international tournament are waged and battled online. Always trying to outwit and outplay the competition, world wide, online gaming has become very challenging and intense.

Where computer game designs used to be a simpler affair, today teams of artists, musicians, producers and gaming industries are working together to make the best and offer their best to the public that has patronized the games very well. The industry however has not, in marketing parlance, reached the peak. In my opinion, it is nowhere near it. The constant innovations that are shaping the computer games industry is so vast varied exciting and rewarding, enough material to motivate the designers and gamers to move on, that who knows what surprises are in store for the gaming public in the future.

What make computer games very popular are the regular releases of good computer game software. If you have not yet tried out the following, find a demo and find out for yourself.

1) Backyard Baseball 2005 2) Battlefield 2 3) Civilization IV 4) Dance Dance Revolution ULTRAMIX3 5) FEAR 6) Fifa 06 7) Food Fight! 8) Grand Theft Auto 9) Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire 10) Legend of Zelda: The Minish Cap 11) Mario Kant DS 12) Need for Speed 13) Ninja Gaiden Black 14) Peter Jacksons King Kong 15) Resident Evil 4 16) Sid Meiers Pirates! 17) Sly 3: Honor Amongst Thieves 18) The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe 19) The Incredibles: Rise of the Underminer 20) We Love Katamari

Console Gaming The technology race in the computer games category will be heavily participated by Microsoft with their Xbox 360 - powered by a multi core processing unit, Sonys Playstation 3 by a cell processor technology, and Revolution by Nintendo will allow player interaction through a wireless motion sensing controller.

The popularity of the computer and video games has been a big business that it has surpassed the revenues of the film industry excluding the films ancillary revenues. However additional business for the computer games also comes in the form of trading cards, T-shirt prints of popular characters in video games and game titles and television shows that features reviews and gaming competitions. Judging from continuing developments and innovations in the game designs and computer technology, the year 2006 will even be more exciting.


S. Stammberger is the owner of A1 Computer Games. A daily updated blog dealing with video and computer games.

Wednesday, December 6, 2006

Learning About Computer Game Design

by Ron Eletrick

Computer games have become extremely popular in the past few years. With new games being launched almost every year world over, the demand seems never ending. Those adept at computer programming, computer aided art and computer hardware are the masterminds to produces these extremely sought after games.

Usually, an interest sparks if you are a passionate about playing games. One may be an expert player, but subsequently gets bored of the games available and there by begins thinking of concepts for new games or means of improvising the already existing games. Taking a computer game design class and ultimately enrolling in a full fledged course for the same are the next steps. At the end of it a new computer game designer is created.

Computer games have become such a technology rage in themselves that schools have begun offering classes in computer game design. The popularity of these classes leads to their getting filled up soon and they can be a bit expensive. I found some great computer information at http://www.mycomputingnews.com. Hundreds of schools, most of them very much techno oriented have come up in order to fulfill the desires of those who wish to learn computer game design. Those who opt for a complete course of computer game design will be exposed initially to concepts like game balance, level design, narrative and storytelling, basic game architecture, motion planning and control.

As a career, its not at all simple. Hundreds of different aspects that comprise the computer game design have to be considered. Those aspiring to learn all will learn about the history of computer games, software architecture, animated sprites, sound and music, realism ,challenges, level design, plot pacing, interface techniques, 3D loading , camera control, rule based approaches among many other concepts.

Most fail to understand that designing a computer game is just like writing a technology filled book. A good game needs a good storyline that comprises a plot, characters, narrative, a thrilling begin, middle and end. Also emotion, repercussions and interaction also are a vital part. The domain of computer game design has many challenges for anyone who aspires and decides to master the basics.

Computer game design, has become a profession for many today. The average money one can spin is about $74,900 annually. Thats not bad at all to work on especially when you enjoy it thoroughly. Some computer game designers are able to clinch contracts with big players and make over $100,000 per year. For those who indulge in computer game design as a freelancer can enhance their earnings from a regular job by about $10,000 to $30,000 a year. Hence, in conclusion, computer game design is surely fun filled, challenging and lucrative from every possible perspective.


Ron often works with: All Communication Information Learn Ecommerce

Tuesday, December 5, 2006

Internet Cyber Cafe Definition

by Azani

What is Cyber Cafe or Internet Cafe?

Internet cafe or cyber cafe is a place where people can get connected to the Internet while eating or have a cup of coffee using publicly accessible computer. While the main activity in the cyber cafe is the Internet, such as email, newsgroup and web site surfing, other applications usually available are office suite to type document or spreadsheet, games, such as online games and other utilities such as printing service, scanning and digital photo service. Some internet cafes also sell computer accessories and computer related stuffs. People may have their food and drink at the computer table or at available separate tables provide by the cafe. Modern cyber cafe also have wireless connection in their local area networking (LAN), where people can bring their own lap top and get connected to the Internet by paying a small fee.

What is Cyber Center or Internet Center?

Cyber center or Internet center is almost the same with cyber cafe or internet cafe. People can browse the Internet, playing games and typing document. The only different is cyber center or internet center do not sell food or beverage. They only concentrate in computers, not cafe. Other services usually available are printing, scanning, digital photo, CD and DVD burning. They also sell computer accessories. Because of the nature of their business, sometimes cyber center also sell computer and provide computer repair service.

What is Gaming Center?

Modern gaming center is more like a cyber cafe or cyber center. People can play online games or network games. People will come in groups so, they can play network game and fight each other to find out who is the best. Some come in solo just to filling in thier time. In the previous time, gaming center are full with kids but today adult also like to play game especially network and online games. In the gaming center, other then personal computer, Playstation or XBox are also use to play games. Although gaming centers are also connected to the Internet, people cannot browse the web site or read emails.


Azani is a web developer of http://www.ccautosoft.com and http://www.pc24hours.net

Monday, December 4, 2006

Download Free Game PC Video On Your Personal Computer

by Anna Josephs

Download free game pc video is a computer controlled game. Its an action game based on dream work and animation movie which attract kids to give their more attention on games. Its a interactive personalized game played for entertainment on your computer.

A pc video game is a computer game where a video display such as monitor or television is required as its an primary feedback device. The pc video game also includes sound and vibration but very few new games in this category.

You can software in the market or else the software can be easily downloaded from net. Many website allow you free download of software. Without any registration you can download free pc video game.

In video games you can get many different types of game, you can go for the game which you have liked most and wants to play it again and again. Once you have downloaded you favorite game you can play it according to your convenience.

If you are confused between games you can test with demo which is provided on every website and download it afterwards.

Free download game allows you to enjoy your game without any disturbance as if you are playing it online it may happen you may loss your internet connection which spoils your mood and you may be not interested to play it again. Today only get your favorite game downloaded on your pc and enjoy fullest.

I am Free Lance writer and currently for this website {http://www.freepcdownloadgame.info/"} Free PC Download Game. I have just started to write article and press releases which are related to this mentioned site. This article is prepared on the basis of reliable sources. If you find any error or mistake in this article please email us immediately at this email address annajosephs@gmail.com so that we can take immediate action.


This article is written by Anna josephs, writer of the website {http://www.freepcdownloadgame.info/"} Free PC Download Game. This article is published only for the educational and information purpose. All the information are collected from the reliable sources of related product.

Sunday, December 3, 2006

Wasting Time and Money on Online Web Games

by Tima

The gaming industry is said to be a multi-billion dollar industry with an even brighter future. No doubt it has its marks well set. All you need are young adults with some defective brain part and a load of unwanted money to get the wheels of fortune running full speed. What do computer games develop, apart from finger dexterity and a soar butt? A hole in the pocket for sure.

As with any other addiction, the younger you start the better. With the little mouse, a small kid can play a computer game. A few years down the line, and you have potential customers hooked up and ready to go bring money for you from momma.

There is a lot of variety to choose from when it comes to gaming software. The more choices the better, as it creates an impression of a vast and burgeoning industry, all legitimate and fair. Arcade games, board games, mystery games, shooting games, adventure and romance games, the list is endless.

How different was the world in the pre-computer and pre-video world. There was only one place to enjoy, and that was outdoors in open surroundings. There was adventure in climbing trees and getting injured, rather than making a cartoon climb an obstacle with a button click. There was more adventure going out biking to discover unknown places, rather than making a silly cartoon run around moving the mouse. There was fun jumping into streams and wading through small rivers, rather than all this being shown on the monitor. Online games allow us to expend our energy into doing futile tasks.

There are however some positive aspects to online gaming software. It is so easy to play a game of chess online with others, or with a computer. This has been a revolution in the game. Board games can be played with ease with people across the world allowing us to chat with them at the same time. Nothing like this could have been imagined possible a few decades back.

For more information on online games visit - free web games


The author is a freelance writer and associated with http://www.freewebgame.info

Saturday, December 2, 2006

Free Online Games and Safety of the User

by Greg Culver

With the advancement in technology and advent of the Internet the gaming in the computer world has evolved as the most endless social possibilities in todays world. The free internet computer games have further increased its popularity and it is not only a time spending activity, as many people love to play online computer games. You can meet people all across the globe but this also opens doors for the danger to your personal information. These problems are usual with free games websites.

You only need to input some gaming identity and other basic details to play free online games on your computer. It is very easy to locate and play online games. You must not deliver personal information over to these websites as they may use it against you by exploiting the information or publishing on the internet.

The spirit of gaming is hindered with such instances of information misuse. Therefore you must ensure that the information you provide doesnt include any private information. Even smart people who are always aware about the information they are providing sometimes make poor choices resulting in loss or misuse of information. Most of us play online games for fun but such incidents of misuse of information would confine us not to play online games.

You must always remember that you are playing with strangers most of the time so you must not share personal views and information. You must not reveal your real name, your age, or your address or any contact number to avoid any problems. The main problems are faced by small children who are unaware about the brutal world out there, and share their personal information with online friends same as they share information and experiences with real friends.

The main point is that you must ensure safety while playing games and spending your free time. The theme of free online gaming is to enjoy and not to share personal views and information, so the game must be played in true spirit.


www.bestkidsandgames.com is a website dedicated to providing information about all aspects of the arts and entertainment category. Greg Culver is the owner of the website.

Friday, December 1, 2006

Finding Free Computer Game Download Links.

by Burt Cotton

If you have been using the web for sometime the more you will become aware that you will need help to get to the sites you want. It is not so much of a problem if you know the URLs and the specific sites you would want to visit. However limiting yourself to the few sites that you have been acquainted and trusted over the months, limits your capability and ignores the true power of the web.

Browsing though the web will lead you to millions of web pages and create a huge index of words that it contains. What you would probably need if you were searching for specifics is to think laterally. For example if you are searching for free computer game download with a specific game in mind, here are a few suggestions.

The web portals can be divided into two broad categories. Those that uses text searching and those that are organized into subjects and topics. With those that are organized into subject and topics i.e. Yahoo! (http://www.yahoo.com.), You will have to download successive web pages to find the sites you are interested in. although when you visit a site organized into this category, all that you have to do is point your mouse and click. You do not have to type anything at all. If you are looking for very specific information you can take advantage of text searching.

Most web engines such as Yahoo, MSN, BBC, etc., have a very wide variety of free computer game download for both action games and puzzle games. MSNs Gaming Zone offers a variety of multi-player games. Examples are Galactic Battlegrounds, Age of Empires etc. If you are looking for old computer games that you have enjoyed and want to download again, try Google and other search engines and you are most likely will find one if not a good variation. You can also find a website out there, http://www.classicgaming.com. That has hundreds upon hundreds of almost every game that has been known that are free computer game downloads.

To play the games in its original code, you will first have to download an emulator. Once done, you should be plating the game in its code through the emulator. A good link to find an almost complete list of emulators where you can find one that will suit the engine you are using is the http:/www.classicgaming.com./vault/arcademu.html, where you can also download the Multiple Arcade Machine Emulator or the MAME. Once the emulator is download is completed, and you have unzipped to a directory in your hard drive (/mame32), you are prepared to download for your free computer game download.

The following are websites that can provide your free computer game downloads from almost every genre of the game.

· PC Game World. - Searching can be done by type or alphabetically. PC Game World has thousands of hot computer downloadable games.

· http://ProgramFiles.com. - Aside from games this site can also be very useful for finding other files for you computer.

· Alive Games - The site offers a wide variety of computer games form arcade, strategy, action, pool and puzzles.

· DOS Games. Com. - provides hundreds of classic games running on the DOS operation system.

· DOS Games Archive. - Free computer game downloads that are shareware, freeware and playable demos. The site also has full game versions that have been released free to the public domain.


Burt Cotton http://www.video-gaming-news.com

Thursday, November 30, 2006

Computer Games that Help Your Babies Learn

by Natalie Aranda

Playing games has been a common activity of humans since ancient times, not just for fun but also aimed at learning basic life skills. PC games come in a large array of forms and intended for the most diverse objective from mere entertainment for leisure time to childrens early instruction at home, thanks to their undeniable power to motivate them to approach learning from a fun perspective.

Baby computer games are a useful tool for parents fostering valuable early skills in areas such as strategic thinking, socialization and collaboration, while developing basic understanding of their surroundings by identifying colors, shapes, numbers and more, associating at the same time places and names in an easier way with the aid of the games audiovisual experience.

Many parents and even educators still underestimate PC games considering them as a waste of time and irrelevant to set the basic of learning for kids during preschool age, and even considered harmful for individuals of any age. Fortunately, the percentage of adults who are convinced of the role of fun in education are higher today and the computing industry develops new digital games for both, learning and fun each and every day.

The surprising benefits of PC games have been evident over the supposed disadvantages and the branch of baby computer games offers a range of activities from early stimulation to the learning of basic skills and challenges useful for preschool children.

Most baby computer games stimulate the babys brain development, coordination and motor skills enhancing language and problem-solving skills, making a strong bond between baby and parents because playing computer games with babies can become a pleasant family activity. Encouraging baby intellectual development is necessary but love and physical closeness is as important as the learning itself for healthy emotional growth.

Educators promote PC games as a fun activity for children and parents making a retrospective on how families were engaged though time in various activities that created stronger ties. The bedtime story tradition that still survives in many homes, the family shared time listening to popular radio shows that later evolve to watching TV together, the picnic and camping days, and so on.

Today time runs fast and for many parents is not possible to continue old traditions, but computers and the internet era have brought a whole universe of exciting family activities. PC games are classified by ages as baby computer games, toddler computer software, preschooler games and activities, etc. Regardless of the age, games are equally exciting for parents and teachers.

If you are a parent seeking PC games for your children, keep in mind that most baby computer games are just for fun but are an aid in developing the babys intellectual, emotional and physical stability.




Natalie Aranda writes about, familay, fun and learning. PC games are classified by ages as baby computer games, toddler computer software, preschooler games and activities, etc. Regardless of the age, games are equally exciting for parents and teachers. The role of computer games in education and learning is a new and inter

Wednesday, November 29, 2006

Gift Ideas for men: Computer Games!

by Matthew Seigneur

Computer games for Men of all ages.

From online sports games to fantasy roll playing you can be assured to find some nice computer game gifts for men of all ages. Men simply love to play games and of course football baseball and basketball may be at the top.

In this new high tech gamers age computers games have become one of the busiest activities on the net. Computer games make exciting gifts for most any man. What are the hottest computer games for all age men?

If you look online for the most popular games you will find many action games near the top of the list. These action games can be many different scenarios from war type games to adventure type games. Many of these games can be one player games or can be played online with others all over the world. The most popular action game right now is Half Life 2.

Role-playing games are very popular computer games for all age men. Most of the role playing games can be one player or also played online with other players.

These games have wonderful graphics and make you feel like you are really there being the person that you have chosen. They are usually 3D and can be hours of fun for any man that enjoy a great adventure and becoming someone else for awhile. The most popular role playing game at the present time for computers is World of Warcraft.

Being a pirate on the high seas may be just what the man in your life would enjoy being for a few hours. Strategy computer games for all age men are very popular, these games make you think. One great game in this line is Sid Meiers Pirates. He can learn what all it took to be a pirate and see if he has what it takes.

If the man on your gift list loves driving games and race tracks then you are sure to find many computer games for all age men that will fit his style. Many of these driving games put you behind the seat of a race car. Learning to control the car and win the race will be very exhilarating to say the least.

Sports, what man does not like sports? In this category you will find that there are many computer games on the top list. He can play basketball, football, or even soccer and be on his favorite team.

No matter what type of games your man likes to play, you will find a computer game for all age men that will keep him happy and content for hours.

Remember when buying computer games to check what type of graphic card and how large the game is and other important information. Some games will not play on older computers they do not have enough RAM or the video card is not the correct type to play the game properly. Also, if you purchase some computer games there are accessories that will help the enjoyment of the game like a joy stick for flying games and steering wheels for driving games.


http://www.gifts-for-men.org/ Provides gift ideas and unique gifts for men, visit http://www.gifts-for-men.org/gadgets-uk/?category=Games for some cool gadgets you can buy for men!

Tuesday, November 28, 2006

Ingredients For A Great Computer Game

by Natalie Aranda

When it comes to talking about computer games, it is really hard to focus our mind on a particular one of those thousands and even million of games developed since the time when computers were found to be a source of entertainment and leisure.

Some games remain in the players mind for their complexity or great features, some others come to attend a temporary demand before falling into limbo of forgetfulness, but then, what are the ingredients for a great computer game to make them unforgettable and yet a rewarding experience?

Experts and successful PC games programmers agree, affirming that every player is motivated when he/she feels to be in focus in the game. Players want to have fun living the role of the chosen character so he or she needs to feel that it is the player who can control the outcome of the games.

Many programmers believe that focusing the players perspective is achieved just by making the actions easy throughout the game, but that point of view may result in an even more frustrating experience for experienced players who might feel a particular game as a development for fools.

A large number of the most memorable and great computer games include a selectable skill level to achieve the different challenges a player might want to take. Depending on the complexity of the games, some players may go for easier, but most of them believe the harder the game the most rewarding the experience when they win a competitive game or complete an adventure-like game.

Developers should also consider the present technology before programming a game. Computer games are only limited by the players computer system and resources, so those users with a powerful computer will find a game worthless if the story is great but the graphics are poor and the actions do not correspond to the actual technology, while others will find it frustrating in not being able to play a game above their system specs, but with the look and feel of those belonging to the early day of computerized games.

Simplicity is the clue to satisfy both, the high tech player and the ordinary PC user. A great computer game is not one with all heavy graphics running intensive system resources through hundreds of pages but one with a quality look and great performance on an average computer with the possibilities to improve the gaming experience in equipment with a higher capacity.

Additionally, the game has to be simple from the playable perspective. A game which features are complicated or hard to understand may discourage the player no matter how good it may look. It is interesting to note how many old PC games based on text adventures without fancy graphics still remain popular. So then, the development of a story is also important to fulfill what a player expects from games.


Natalie Aranda writes about, familay, fun and learning. PC games are classified by ages as baby computer games, toddler computer software, preschooler games and activities, etc. Regardless of the age, games are equally exciting for parents and teachers. The role of computer games in education and learning is a new and interesting research topic.

Monday, November 27, 2006

How To Cheat In A Computer Game

by Beverly Kane

The definition of a cheat is pretty easy to figure out. If you have an affair with someone other than your lover, you can be called a cheat. If you copy answers from another person during an exam, you can also be called a cheat. In sports, if you try to win or get an advantage by disregarding the rules you are cheating but in computer games this definition become hard to follow. Taking advantage or lying to your fellow game players does not automatically mean you are cheating.

Cheating in a computer game is defined by the game and the people who are playing it.A lot of computer games come with a "cheat code". This is usually to help a person get started and makes the game a little easier. They are usually designed for a single player. If you use these cheat codes you are cheating technically but it doesnt mean you have an advantage.

The most common occurrence of cheating is when there are multiplayer and mass multiplayer games through the internet. In this instance, the players are not known to each other so they dont have the restrictive influence of being seen by their opponents.

There are two main areas of cheating in computer games. You can change your settings through the use of exploits, bugs and external software or cheesing.

If you alter your computer settings, the layout of the computers hardware or the computer game to fit your gaming style you are cheating in a sense and this can be alright. But if you went even further and changed the brightness or the color of the screen in order to see better in shadow areas it becomes questionable.

Exploits are termed as errors in the game itself that give an advantage to one person or another. If someone deliberately uses those it a game, it could be considered cheating but it also could add to the excitement of the game.

There are software programs you can purchase that modify a program that runs computer game. This is a more serious form of cheating. Other software programs study the status of the game through the computers RAM

Another form of cheating is called cheesing. This is when the players do things that cannot happen in real life or are not allowed in real life.

The most common of game cheats these days find ways to change the games software. Even if the game developers try to encrypt or protect the files, there are software programs that will be able to change the games code without changing the main program. Cheats of this kind may be detected using programs that are installed on a server.

Preventing computer game cheaters is not easy. There are a lot of grey areas to agree on and consider before you term someone a cheat.


Beverly Kane is a staff writer at Games Enthusiast and is an occasional contributor to several other websites, including The Shopping Gazette.

Sunday, November 26, 2006

Flash Games Are Good For You ; Good For Your Child

by Jonathan White

The modern day lifestyle is giving in to smaller nuclear families, with both parents working to make ends meet more comfortably. Even if one of the parent is non-working, the need to get away for sometime is pervasive and understandably so. The good old days are also gone when children used to play in group as families used to be joint and/ or had many children. Now parents are increasingly having a single child only. Under the circumstances, online computer games offer immense help as an effective baby sitter who not only makes a child sit at one place, but also enhances his/ her mental faculties and reflexes.

The computer games invariably render the young children technology savvy as they get interested into computers because of the games to start with. This sort of transforms a class lesson into a road to entertainment that is traveled with keen interest and sincerity. The familiarity with computers gradually developed into thorough knowledge and eventually attained a unique comfort level with computer technology and topics of relevance. It is always a matter of initiative with children. The first few steps into a subject render them confident and comfortable in the subject forever!

Online games relieve the parents to worry about the fellow children who can play with their child. The single child families are specifically benefitted as they do not have to rely on another child from neighborhood or otherwise, to join in and enrich the play for their child. They do not have to engage a baby sitter either, whose duties are generally to look after the safety of the child as he/ she does not sit at one place. Online games simply enchant the young minds and make them sit at one place... before the monitor screen of a computer !

The web is teeming with a wide variety of computer games, ranging from action and adventure to puzzles and word games... the online games offer ample variety for children to enthuse them into playing these games with initial assistance, wherever necessary. The board games are pretty enjoyable for children, who feel particulary attracted to bright and colorful animations provided by these games on interactive basis. The domino effect in these games is particularly enchanting for young children.

Whats more the good news does not end with replacement of a fussy and expensive baby sitter for your child, the good news extends beyond and above. Online computer games allow your child to learn subconsciously and refine ones motor skills, hand - eye coordination, reflexes, logical thinking and various other skills. Thus, in no uncertain words, the computer games allow pleasure and fun along with sharpened intelligence. The distraction provided by computer games take his/ her mind off from the fact that he/ she does not have any body else to play. The computer becomes his/ her steady friend.

Besides enhanced intelligence and exercise for eyes, the online games instil in your child a sense of understanding of what competition means. Because the online games do not present a direct challenge to his/ her ego, which often happens in group games when a child loses or wins, the online games help your child to accept win and lose in the same spirit. He/ she earns patiences and perseverance over time. Further, the child learns a very invaluable lesson of life... hardwork! The child learns that to achieve everything you want, you need to work hard. Moreover, with Human Resource Development people recognizing proficiency in playing computer games as an added advantage and a plus point in the profile, your child is better off with online flash and shockwave games in all respects.


Article author - Jonathan White, owner of SimplySearch4It - Online Games Directory , Online Entertainment

Saturday, November 25, 2006

Media Addiction Quiz for Teens: Do TV, Video Games and Computers Run Your Life?

by Katherine Westphal

Welcome to "The Media Generation"

Teens are spending so much time watching TV and playing with their computer and video games that the Kaiser Family Foundation has dubbed this generation "The Media Generation."

The recent study found that children aged 8-18 were watching TV, playing video games, on their computers, and listening to music for a total of 6 hours and 23 minutes EVERY DAY! Many kids were doing two or more activities at once. Most of this time is still spent watching TV. Kids spent almost four hours every day watching TV. With so much time in front of TV and other media, perhaps Kaiser should have labeled it "The Media-Addicted Generation."

What excess TV, video game, and computer use may be doing to you

How much time you spend in front of a TV, video, and computer screen is important, because these activities have been linked to obesity, attention problems (like ADHD), and poor grades. Violent content may condition you to accept violence in your life. The sexual content of many popular shows and games may encourage you to experiment before you are ready. The TV can act as a depressant, stifle your creativity, encourage conformity, and simply waste your valuable time.

Find out if you are part of "The Media-Addicted Generation":

1. Does your family have more than one TV set? Yes [] No []

2. Are you in front of a screen for more than 2 hours per day?Yes [] No []

3. Do you sometimes have trouble getting TV or video game jingles "out of your head"? Yes [] No []

4. Is there a TV/video game/computer playing in your home much or all of the time? Yes [] No []

5. Do you have a TV, video game, and/or computer in your bedroom? Yes [] No []

6. Is it easy for you to turn off the TV/video game in the middle of a favorite show/game? Yes [] No []

7. Do you ever rush home, ditching friends and family, to catch a favorite TV show, play video games, or go on the computer? Yes [] No []

8. Do you frequently eat meals while in front of the TV, video games, or computer? Yes [] No []

9. Have you ever caught yourself unintentionally mimicking a TV or video game character? Yes [] No []

10. Do you talk to and play with your friends more than you watch TV, play games, and play with computers? Yes [] No []

11. Can you turn off the TV, computer, and video games OFF right now and leave them off for three days? Yes [] No []

12. Do you ever mindlessly surf through TV channels or the internet? Yes [] No []

13. Do you need TV, video game, or a computer to relax after a rough day? Yes [] No []

14. Do you feel edgy, anxious, or "not right" if there is no TV, video game, or a computer playing? Yes [] No []

15. Do you watch TV, play video games, and/or play on the computer more than spend time with your family? Yes [] No []

16. Do you ever watch the TV, play video games, or surf the internet longer than you intend to? Yes [] No []

17. Do you feel spend too much time with TV, video games, or computer? Yes [] No []

18. Have you missed a special event with friends or family because you were watching a TV program? Yes [] No []

19. Have you ever tried to quit watching TV, playing video games, or going on computer, but were unsuccessful? Yes [] No []

20. Do you have difficulty limiting the time you watch TV, play video games, or go on the computer? Yes [] No []

*Note: Time spent on the computer for homework purposes does not count:

To calculate your score: For all questions, except for #6, #10, and #11, give yourself 1 point for every "Yes" answer and 0 points for every "No". For questions #6, #10, and #11 give yourself 0 points for every "Yes", answer and 1 point for every "No". Add your total. Your total: ____________

Scoring:

0-6: Great! Your TV, computer, and video games are not in control of your life. You are. But keep an eye on how much time you spend with these activities to make sure an addiction does not sneak up on you.

7-14: You are moderately addicted to your TV, video games, or computer. Maybe all of them. The good news is that with a little effort, a list of fun non-screen activities, and a reasonable schedule you should be able to keep your addiction under control. "The TV-FREE System" also helps you create a schedule that keeps you busy with fun, goal-centered activities. Follow your dreams instead of staring at a screen..

15-20: Yikes. You probably have a serious addiction problem. You may need to take extreme steps, including getting rid of your TV or video games, to get in control of your time. Start with the device which squanders the most of your time. The good news is "The TV-FREE System" was designed to help even the most serious addict, and can be used for video game, or computer addiction as well.

Life is too short to "watch" it go by.


Katherine Westphal is the guru of TV control and the founder of TrashYourTV.com. Get in control of your TV, video games, and computer with The TV-Free System. Go to http://tvfree.trashyourtv.com to get in control of your addiction today.

Friday, November 24, 2006

Improving Spelling with Games

by Steve Hall

You got it! You can do just about any type of learning for a child or an individual learning a second language through the use of various computer games. You are sure to find something that will fit with their needs. You are also able to find a game that will keep them interested. Lets take spelling as an example.

Many kids struggle each and every year at school with that dreaded Friday spelling test. It doesnt get any easier because chances are good that the words just keep getting harder. For many parents, spelling is often a challenge to teach as well. The English language is nothing simple. But, what if you could teach them through the use of a PC game? That would be excellent, wouldnt it?

Think about this. The next time your child comes home with that awful list of twenty words they just have to know, you can easily say to them, "Why not go play a game on the computer." Yes, you can do this!

There are a number of games that are just perfect for teaching children the art of spelling. For example, you might want to try a word puzzle game like Beeslys Buzzwords. Or, if Spiderman happens to be your childs favorite character, you have games like Spider-Man 2: Web of Words. In this game, you child can advance through the levels by correctly spelling words. Its fun, rewarding, and most of all, it will help to improve their spelling capabilities.

The spelling games are not boring, dull, and difficult. To the opposite, these games will hold your childs attention so that they can get the knowledge they need. That is what makes these games different. If you are thinking back to your school days and those boring computer programs you were allowed to play and wondering how your technology loving child is going to play with something like that, dont worry. These games are much different. They are made to stimulate your childs knowledge without even allowing them to realize that they are. To them, they are simply playing a Spider Man game.

The value of these games is huge. In fact, there are more than just spelling games, as we will see down the line. They are great ways to feed your child the knowledge that they need without boring them. When it is fun, it will get played more often. The more that it gets played, the more they can learn from it.

So, then, what is the bottom line? You can easily allow your child to play some computer games but of course, you still need to monitor their usage. And, yes, you may have to practice those specific spelling words each week, but it may just get easier as time goes on. Heres a thought. Replace their favorite computer game with one of these for a week. They still get computer time and they still get to play a fun game. But, you get the satisfaction of knowing that they are playing an educational game as well. All in all, we think these games may be a great way to boost confidence and knowledge. Consider them for any age of child. Youll be happy that you did!


Steve is a member of the GrandMatrix team. They provide a broad range of games, puzzles, articles and reviews. Read more articles, download and play the latest PC games for free plus enjoy thousands of user submitted puzzles, quizzes and word games at: http://www.grandmatrix.com