Whatever Happened to the Konami Game Contra Series From So Long Ago?

It's been about 25 years now since the Contra game series first started out. This particular Konami game was famous for multiple reasons. You may remember the old Konami code that goes Up, Up, Down, Down, Left, Right, Left, Right, B, A, Start. That was the famous code from so long ago that gave you 30 lives. The Contra series has come a long way since then, with Konami bringing out new hits like Super Contra, Contra 3 The Alien Wars that was released on the Super Nintendo, which also suffered from a few slowdown issues, and then there was the Genesis version called Contra Hard Corps, another favorite classic for Contra fans out there. The next Contra game didn't really take hold until the PSX came out, then the two that followed were Contra The Adventure, and then Contra Legacy of War, both of which were big hits. Fans could now witness the Contra universe in a more 3D and realistic setting.

The introduction of the PlayStation 2 also gave the world Contra Shattered Soldier and Neo Contra, also which were excellent. Nowadays things are different, it seems Konami is more focused on games like Metal Gear and Castlevania to give much attention to the long running Contra series anymore. In fact, just last year at the E3 electronic show, Konami had displayed a new teaser trailer for a new Contra game that was originally supposed to be titled "Contra Reboot". That trailer only consisted of a few seconds showing a "flaming C" in the video, and that was it. The new Contra game was only teased and then was cancelled by Konami games development. That basically marked the end of the Contra series, as there hasn't been a true Contra game released since the days of the PS2, except on the Nintendo DS system.

The only hope now is the fact that Dave Cox, who is producer of Mercury Steam, a company who has Castlevania licensed to them, has toyed with the idea of bringing the Contra series back to life and just may be the key to giving Contra a new lease in the gaming world. But what about Konami games development? These days it seems they have their hands full with their top four flagship titles, those being Pro Evolution Soccer, Castlevania, Metal Gear, and Silent Hill. It seems they are more focused on those since sales of those have been so huge. But I feel that the Contra game series will get a second look from Konami and they will finally see that the market for it has not died at all, but just been waiting for it to shine once again.

Fun Gifts For Him - Xbox Games

Computer and video games have taken the world by storm, and they are now more popular than ever. It is for this very reason that giving a video game as a gift is so convenient.

There is, however, such a vast array of game titles available, that it is often difficult to choose which title to get for their loved one.

Here follows descriptions of two games that will bring a smile to the face of many men. (I base this statement on the fact that I am a man, I have been gaming for many years, and I know that I would love to receive either of these games as a gift).

These two titles are for Xbox 360, as well as other platforms.

1. Doom 3 - BFG Edition

In the 1990's Doom became wildly popular. It was a groundbreaking game which, arguably, made the First-Person-Shooter (FPS) genre the powerhouse it is today.

A few years later Doom 2 was released, and the fans of the first installment raved. We just couldn't get enough, and Doom's spot in gaming history was secured.

In 2004 Doom 3 was released, and it was so far ahead of its time, that many Doom fans just didn't own PC's powerful enough to run the game, so many of us missed out on this great title.

Now, however, the BFG Edition has been released. It is a collection of Doom games and add-ons that are enhanced and optimized for consoles such as the popular Xbox 360. The BFG Edition is available for PC's as well.

This package includes Doom 1, Doom 2, Doom 3, the "Resurrection of Evil" expansion, as well as the "Lost Missions".

For older gamers who would like to experience the nostalgia by playing Doom 1 and 2 again, as well as those who missed out on Doom 3, this would make a fantastic gift.

2. Far Cry 3

Far Cry 3 is another game in the First-Person-Shooter genre, and at the time of writing this article, it has not yet been released. It can, however, be pre-ordered, as its release date is in the near future.

I have personally played through this game's predecessor - Far Cry 2 - several times, and I thought it was awesome. The level of detail in graphics, the storyline, and every other aspect of Far Cry 2 was astounding.

I have seen the trailers, and read all the news I could about Far Cry 3, and based on that, as well as my high regard for Far Cry 2, I think it will be an instant classic.

I don't know any gamer, male or female, that wouldn't love to receive this game as a gift.

In Summation

If you are looking for fun gifts for him (or her), you may want to consider Doom 3 - BFG Edition, and/or Far Cry 3.

SWTOR Healer Class: Is It for You?

The healer class is probably the most underplayed class in any MMO because of what it offers. It can be however, the best and most in depth class offered. Being different from other MMO's, the SWTOR Healer is built more complex and rounded than other Healers.

Because Bioware is setting out to be different, they have setup this game to be free from much downtime. Each class will have a second wind of some sort. This arises the question, "how does this make the healer better?" Good question...

Think for a minute about a couple of other games such as World of Warcraft for example. Upon using a healing skill, your character has to stop and take time out to complete the heal. If your character gets hit, he has to start all over with the skill.

Unlike World of Warcraft, the SWTOR Healer now has the ability to self heal quickly which now makes the healer a soloable class. As of now, Flashpoints have not shown any need of a healer but regardless, everyone can now enjoy the game for it is.

All classes will have the ability to heal to some extent while our actual healer classes will have much more of an advantage. These classes are as follows:

  • Jedi Consulars
  • Smugglers
  • Sith Inquisitors
  • Imperial Agents
  • Bounty Hunters

Having the ability to heal with next to no downtime will enable us to support our fellow players in a fast and efficient time. Playing the SWTOR Healer role and choosing a class such as a Sage class from the Consular leaves these players being able to heal and attack as needed.

Our options of Healing Kits, Force Healing, Mechanical Healing Devices, and Support Abilities will be equipped to just about every player to some extent. This should not lead you away from playing as the SWTOR Healer.

The SWTOR Healer has the largest need but is the most under played. This class is not often played because it is not meant for Tank play.

The SWTOR Healer is now capable of attacking and being aggressive. If you want to go knock that boss up against the wall while leading on your healing role, please feel free.

As we usually see, healing is not a popular choice such as the Tank role. The world of SWTOR will probably have a need for Healer just like other MMO's do and will always be as equally important as your tank.

There are more updates in the making that will be released regarding the healer role. Until then, be aware that the Healer is always highly needed and makes for a strong presence.

5 Things You Need to Do Before Buying A Video Game

Buying a game is like anticipating a newborn child, preparing a place for the new member of the family. For many gamers buying a new game is a big deal considering the costs involved. So, what are players expected to do before they venture out to get the game they want desperately? Here's some tips you can use:

Save Up

It's a no brainer when it comes to saving up for the game you want. Some games cost a whopping $59.99 and burning $60 (plus tax) in one go can burn a sizable hole in your wallet. If you're a smart saver you can do the following: once you know the estimated release date of the game, put in $10 each month into your savings. $10 a month for 6 months equals an easy $60 without worry. You don't need to resort to starvation to get the game; all you need to is save away small amounts.

Making Space

If you're a game collector then tossing away old games is out of the question. However, if they are games you never play at all and losses its charisma, then it's time to let it go. Gamers have a tendency to collect games over the years which can clog up the room. Thus, to make way for new games, the ideal solution is to sell the games to make a sizable profit. eBay is one of the suggested choices; games that you no longer enjoy can be enjoyed by others. Plus, the benefits are that you gain more money in your pocket! Yard sales and flea markets are other examples where you can make some good money. People are willing to pay double for a hard to find game and with a rare game in your collection, you can ensure that your wallet will budge with easily earned cash!

Enough Funds

Make sure you have enough funds before purchasing your desired game. The last thing you want is to be short on money then the collector's edition you eyed will soon belong to someone else. Applying strategy number one (as previously mentioned) will allow you to get your game. You can also look at it this way; if by chance during this time you are dieting, you can cut down on eating costs (especially junk food) then transfer the leftover funds to your game savings. This way, you'll have plenty of money to use plus you'll be in great shape!

Choosing Your Game

During the peak of game release season, gamers are conflicted to buying two or three games in one go, however, this splurge spending can affect your funds. When several hit titles are coming out, decide which title you want the most. Look for the title you've been waiting for after reading and researching about the title. Make absolutely sure this is the title for you; many gamers have experienced this dilemma and bought a game they thought would be good when in actuality, it is a flop. When buying games, read reviews to see if other players enjoy the game as well. Look for the game's highlighted qualities and then you can make the purchase without regrets.

Dividing Your Time

Before you get the game, make sure you have enough time to compensate it for other tasks. Don't play the game for 6 hours straight without doing anything else; it's unhealthy for you. An obsessive streak from gaming can affect school, personal relationships and more. The smart thing to do is to divide time carefully balancing out your time. The last thing you want is for your game to be confiscated by towering, parental authorities.

These are the top 5 tips I can offer from gamer to gamer. Use them wisely if you're interesting in buying something you want! The more you use these techniques, the more games you can collect in the long run without exhausting your wallet!

The SWTOR Character Creation Guide

When creating a new character in the Old Republic, The SWTOR Character Creation screen is what we are introduced to. There are a wide range of options and sometimes tend to overwhelm the player if they are not sure about what they want. Do you want to play as the good guys or the bad guys? While attempting to decide, remember that the character that you decide to build is going to be where you spend most of your time, so choose wisely.

The servers that offered allow for the player to have up to (8) eight characters. Therefore if you decide to play on all (5) five servers, you can have as many as (40) forty characters. That makes it possible to play every race and species which also allows you to see the multiple story lines, first hand.

While in character creation mode, you are able to use your mouse to rotate around the tune and see what his appearances will be. To attempt to help you decide which Allegiance to begin with, let's discuss each of our options.

The Galactic Republic

The Galactic Republic, being founded well over 20,000 years ago was made up from diplomats and explorers. The Chancellor is the leader of this democracy formed for the Galactic Republic. In their attempts to bring nations together, the Republic uses what is referred to as "chaotic amalgam." This causes the world, species, and corporations to often clash back and forth.

The Sith Empire

The Sith Empire, being a militaristic society is nothing short of rigid. Because of this, the Sith Lord is the ruler and dominates by using force and power. Because of how the Empire is made up, power is everything. This Empire lives by the saying, "only the strongest survive." Achieving power glory means that you have to turn on everyone and cannot trust anyone, ever.

As far as gameplay goes, the advanced classes and species are on opposite ends of the spectrum. At level 10, your character will start to take shape and mold into what you really him or her to be.

The Sith Empire has the following classes:

  • Sith Warrior
  • Bounty Hunter
  • Sith Inquisitor
  • Imperial Agent

The Galactic Republic may choose any of the following:

  • Jedi Knight
  • Trooper
  • Jedi Consular
  • Smuggler

While each class has its positives and negatives, being sure that you choose based from your interest is important. If you find that you would prefer mostly brute force who enjoys stopping at nothing to rip life from your enemies and being able to be stealthy and seductive about it, be sure and give The Sith Empire a try.

Being peaceful and always watching out for your partner and team is what the Galactic Republic stands for. If built correctly, the Galactic Empire is a force that cannot be taken lightly. Get out there and build your ultimate character!

Entering The World Of Skyrim

Role playing games, also known as RPGs, have become a trend in the video game industry. In playing this game, you control a character of your choice and accomplish the objectives set for the in the game in order to win. Most of the time it is not that easy, but that is just how the game goes. For this role playing game, Skyrim, the way RPGs are played has been taken to a whole new level.

Skyrim is the fifth installment in the already successful The Elder Scrolls role-playing video game developed by Bethesda Game Solutions and published by Bethesda Softworks. This game follows the fourth video game of the series, Oblivion, and since its release last November 11, 2011 in Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360, the game has received positive reviews from gamers from all over the world.

Most of the RPGs are based on stories developed by the creators, and Skyrim is one of them, similar to its predecessors. Set over 200 years after the events of Oblivion, the video game takes place in the fictional province of Skyrim in the continent of Tamriel. The empire of the land is in jeopardy as the High King of Skyrim has been killed. With a revolution looming in and alliances forming to create a new empire, the future of the province will soon be determined by the coming of the prophesized Dragonborn, the only one who can stand amongst all the dragons.

With the traditional nonlinear gameplay being followed in Skyrim and all the other The Elder Scrolls series before it, players have options for challenges that can be completed in multiple sequences. To get started, a player chooses and creates his character according to preference. A great adventure awaits the players in the game, as they can do more traveling as they engage in combat along the way. As one explores the game world, he may encounter wildlife, and there are a lot of wilderness monsters that put him to the test. A feature of the game is the dragons involved, which has a great influence to both story and gameplay. With a lot of storylines being played in between tasks and missions, Skyrim can surely bring out the best of the players, maybe even better than the previous versions.

As you enter the world of Skyrim, all you might be thinking from that point on is how to escape from your keyboards or consoles because of the gameplay it provides. If you have been a lifelong The Elder Scrolls fan, this game is totally worth the sequel of the story. This is not only for those who have followed the story from the beginning, but also to the amateurs and experienced RPG gamers who want to experience a thrilling, exciting video game.

Set the Game on Extreme Action With a Gaming Chair

If pumping high doses of adrenaline and numbing your fingers comes in the package, so do gaming chairs for people who have their minds set on video games. If you're looking for a gaming chair, you should know that it is one of the most top-notch additions to the living room as it is often versatile, blending in with any interior design or decor-it is also the greatest aid for any committed player, as it acts as a dock for CDs and DVDs, as well as with headphone jacks and other ports which can be needed for gaming. The head and neck rest, extendable leg support and other emphasis on comfort (since gamers are likely to gawk the screen for long hours in the same posture) are contributing factors, and the epitome of it all-the sounds and the vibrations which are a normal course of a video game can be heard and experienced through the chair, are the winning strike. They definitely are indulgence redefined.

If you've made up your mind that you wish to invest in it, then there are a few simple tips which you need to consider before buying them off a retail store or eBay. The quality and durability of such furniture is very important, because most furniture should have a very long life and it's important for the comfort level to not be altered too much over a short period of time. You should also personalize your choice by sitting in each of these chairs you are considering, and feel which one you are most comfortable in. There is no singular definition and description of comfort, so instead of going on some arbitrary rule you should personally inspect the chair before purchasing it.

At times, you may be looking for some extra features in a gaming chair which include a complete shelf system for the TV screen, space for the controllers and sub woofer for sound outside of headsets. It greatly depends on how much you wish to be loyal to your living room's setting, though usually complete units are more expensive but allow for easier and faster organization of your gaming materials. You may also want to consider if you want a battery-operated or electric gaming chair, and if the former than its battery life is your chief area of research-if you game a lot you're not letting any battery tell you otherwise! In fact, these chairs will enhance your experience, if used the right way.