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What happens if a company delivers supposedly sub par products to customers, and tries to stop a competent individual from providing solutions to make said supposed sub par products work? You guessed it: mayhem ensues. At least, that's what's happening right now for sound card manufacturer Creative Labs.

So what exactly happened? According to the angry forum posts and threads that littered Creative Lab's forums, Creative was marketing certain sound cards to be Vista-ready, but that some of the functions that worked in XP are still not supported in Microsoft Vista.

However, a modder by the name of Daniel_K was able to do some modifications on the said drivers, and made them function properly on the Vista OS. Not only that, Daniel_K was able to reactivate some features that Creative Lab claimed couldn't function under Vista, making the sound cards work with optimum performance compared to just using them, unmodded, out of the box with Vista.

Not pleased with his work, Creative's VP of Corporate Communications Phil O'Shaughnessy posted a lengthy message to Daniel_K in their forums, part of which said:

In principle we don't have a problem with you helping users in this way, so long as they understand that any driver packages you supply are not supported by Creative. Where we do have a problem is when technology and IP owned by Creative or other companies that Creative has licensed from, are made to run on other products for which they are not intended.

We took action to remove your thread because, like you, Creative and its technology partners think it is only fair to be compensated for goods and services. The difference in this case is that we own the rights to the materials that you are distributing.

This was Daniel_K's response to O'Shaughnessy's message:

The funny thing is that you are faster "protecting" your technologies and intelectual properties than providing improved drivers and softwares for your customers.

You purposedly crippled and ruined the Audigy/Live! (Emu10kx) and the Audigy LS/SE/Value/Live!24-bit (P17) drivers for Windows Vista.

This just proves you don't really care about what your customers and what people think about you.

Several, if not legions, of other users rallied behind the modder, saying that they will never again support Creative's sound cards or any other product. Most of them even went so far as claiming that the company should have hired Daniel_K instead of silencing him. Creative Lab's forum is currently in shambles with negative posts and threads created by irate users at this point.

Will Creative be able to  fix this PR nightmare, or will the users get what they want in the end? Stay tuned for more updates.

Thanks to X-Ravin for the tip!

Sally B. on March 31st, 2008 | File Under Uncategorized | Comments Off -

Like to play music from your Sony Playstation Portable? Homebrew developer Sk4rT4I thought you might use some entertainment while doing so with Musical Blind Test version 0.1.

Musical Blind Test version 0.1 is a simple music quiz which randomly plays a song from your Sony PSP and promptly asks you its title. You will be given five choices and you can select your answer by pressing X. For the quiz to renew, you have to return to the menu by pressing O.

Still in its infancy, version 0.1 has yet to feature levels of difficulty  or a score system. Multiple format support isn't available also because it can only play mp3 files. Coder Sk4rT4I explains that these improvements, as well as some new graphics, will arrive for the next build.

Sk4rT4I added that a minimum of five music files from your ms0:/MUSIC/ directory is needed to run Musical Blind Test version 0.1. However, it's always better to fill your PSP with lots of music or have someone else handle your music playlist so you won't know what song is coming. Now, that's some challenge there.

Download: Musical Blind Test v0.1

Abraham A. on March 31st, 2008 | File Under Uncategorized | Comments Off -

Formerly known as MaxES, now re-released as pGOX - that's homebrew developer PCoopD's latest project for the Sony PlayStation Portable. And since the initial work-in-progress release back in early March, the coder has been busy putting new features together for this next release. Aside from a full aesthetics overhaul from MaxES, pGOX also provides a way to customize the shell graphics. But right now it's a manual affair.

Although you can't expect groundbreaking features yet, for a preview release version, pGOX also comes quite blessed with additions and abilities like:

• Splash Screen
• USB function
• MP3 Player
• Power Management
• MemoryStick Browser
• CPU clock changer
• Help on-screen
• Excute (sic) PBP files
• Excute PNG files
• Play MP3 files
• Open/Extract ZIP/RAR files
• Fully skinnable
• Battery icon (Like in XMB)
• Take screenshot

Contrary to popular belief, MaxES wasn't actually a Maxy_PSP team effort, and in order to emphasize that fact, the coder rechristened the PSP shell project to pGOX. Now we're not quite sure what pGOX means, but it does pose a striking similarity to the author's naming convention. Also, PCoopD maintains that pGOX has been coded in good 'ol C.

Now like some homebrew releases, the coder's archive comes neatly organized into folders. You'll be needing some primers on how to use the homebrew application, but there's a catch to that. You'll need a Windows-based PC and an Office 2007 compatible word processor - either that, or settle for a tweaked out Linux flavor with a Windows virtual emulator on its lap.

Why? Because the Readme documentation is in Microsoft's patent-pending XML document standard, and it ain't non-MS friendly yet. We'll keep you updated if new revisions get plated soon.

Download: pGOX preview release
Visit: QJ.NET's PSP Development Forums

Ceasar S. on March 31st, 2008 | File Under Uncategorized | Comments Off -

It's quite uncommon for an FPS game to have an absolutely awesome single player mode, and Infinity Ward's Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare (PC, Sony PS3, Microsoft Xbox 360) definitely delivered in that oft-ignored part of an FPS title package. Now, we catch wind that while the developers don't quite have plans for downloadable content for the single-player campaign, it's pretty much in their reach to dole out some.

This comes directly from one of Infinity Ward's programmers, namely Jon Shiring. His statement, verbatim: "I wouldn't rule it out but we don't have any plans for that right now."

The reason for this, Jon Shiring explains, is that developers tend to release new multiplayer content instead of single player content when it comes to FPS titles. It makes sense, given the competitive nature of the genre. But - and it's a resounding but - when it comes to Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare, Shiring stated that the upcoming DLC was in direct response to community requests, and not just because of the inherent multiplayer aspect of the game.

This means, then, that if players want to get more out of the Single Player Campaign, then all we have to do is to demand it. It's not all that hard, and the devs DO listen (as proven by the incoming DLC), so let's hope for it, shall we?

As for the upcoming DLC, here are a few details: the Xbox 360 version will be getting its joy come April 4, while the PS3 version a full 21 days after (that's April 25). No news yet about the PC version, but it's a safe bet that it will be pretty unique from the console versions. Here's hoping so, in any case. Updates as we get them!

Buy: [ Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare (PS3) ]
Buy: [ Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare (PC) ]
Buy: [ Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare (Xbox 360) ]

Ryan C. on March 31st, 2008 | File Under Uncategorized | Comments Off -

Last week's releases may have given us a pretty well-rounded gaming selection, but this time around we're going to have a week rife with new PC games and a handful of handheld titles. It's about time that we gave more attention to our trusty machines, since pretty boy Zack Fair grabbed most of our attention with last week's launch of Square Enix's Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII.

Get ready to shell out some PC gaming money for titles such as Lighthouse Interactive's psychological thriller Overclocked, but if you're up for more handheld gaming, you can opt to get Majesco's pastel-colored toy store simulator Toy Shop. If you prefer games of the tried and tested strategy formula, there's Koios Works' Panzer Command: Kharkov and...

Great War Nations: The Spartans. Forget 300, it's about time you step into the Spartans' shoes and guide the legendary warriors of Macedonia and Sparta to glory. It's not only all about battles; Great War Nations: The Spartans will also make gamers consider economical development while slaughtering enemies from all sides.

• PC - March 31, 2008
• US 39.99
• ESRB Mature
• Dreamcatcher Interactive

The Abbey. If you miss the Ye Olde Point-and-Click gameplay of past adventure games, now's the time to relive the intriguing storytelling that this particular gaming genre offers with Alcachofa Soft's The Abbey. Rediscover the Middle Ages through the eyes of the Grand Inquisitor Leonardo and his assistant Bruno, as they try to solve a series of murders that terrify an old abbey's inhabitants.

• PC - March 2008
• Crimson Cow Games and Alcachofa Soft

Civil War Mysteries. Solve and unlock the mysteries hidden in the events of the Civil War. A puzzle title, Civil War Mysteries will be sure to engage the undivided attention of history buffs who own a PC.

• PC - April 8, 2008
• ESRB Everyone
• Activision

Overclocked. As former army psychiatrist, David McNamara, explore and take over  the minds of five different people as they struggle to find themselves in the midst of chaotic violence that lurks within their psyches. Taking place in 45 different locations and fleshed out with an exceptional storyline and cast of characters, Overclocked will certainly make a mark in your own psyche.

• PC - March 31, 2008
• US 29.99
• ESRB Rating Pending
• Lighthouse Interactive

Panzer Command: Kharkov. Fans of the tried and tested turn-based strategy games can chew on this new morsel developed by Matrix Games and Koios Works. Take the commander's seat for either the Soviets or the Germans, and plan your way to victory through the fleshed-out campaign mode. Want to create your own history? Feel free with Panzer Command: Kharkov's Scenario Editor and Campaign Editor.

• PC - March 2008
• Matrix Games and Koios Works

Professor Brainium's Games. Jumping into the Nintendo DS brain training bandwagon is SVG's Professor Brainium's Games. Prep up your brain with Professor Brainium's Games' plethora of fun and complex puzzles. If you're addicted to other brain training games, there's no reason for you to pass this one up.

• Nintendo DS - March 31
• Destineer Studios, SVG

Puzzle Quest: Challenge of the Warlords. D3 Publisher's popular puzzle franchise finally hits the mobile platform, thanks to THQ Wireless. Play as any of the eight playable characters as you plow through the epic storyline and solve puzzles that get in your way towards victory.

• Mobile
• US 8.93
• ESRB Everyone 10
• D3 Publisher

Riddle of the Tomb. Dreamcatcher Interactive's proving itself to be a prolific game publisher with the release of two games in a week, the second being Riddle of the Tomb. Take the role of Thomas, an apprentice astrologist and astronomers as he investigates the disappearance of his master Akkad and his daughter in this adventure game replete with puzzles.

• PC - March 31
• US 19.99
• ESRB Teen
• Dreamcatcher Interactive

Toy Shop. Majesco takes a popular kid's dream and turns it into a fun and engaging Nintendo DS game. Create toys by completing mini games, have full rein over the prices over every piece of merchandise, and make sure the customers are fully satisfied with your wares, among others. If managing (and playing) in a toy shop is your dream, this game is probably the closest thing you can get to fulfill it.

• Nintendo DS - April 29, 2008
• US 18.99
• ESRB Everyone
• Majesco

Women's Murder Club. Immerse yourself in the world based on James Patterson's novel of the same title. If you liked the thrill offered by the stories revolving around four women dedicated to solving crimes, then it's criminal to pass up on playing this hidden object game.

• PC - April 3, 2008
• Oberon Media

Article originally posted Mar 31, 2008 at 12:22AM

Buy: [Great War Nations: The Spartans (PC)]
Buy: [Overclocked (PC)]
Buy: [Toy Shop (DS)]
Buy: [Civil War Mysteries (PC)]
Buy: [Riddle of the Tomb (PC)]

Sally B. on March 31st, 2008 | File Under Uncategorized | Comments Off -

  

Back in high school, or college, some of you may have owned those high-end scientific calculators that are capable of plotting graphs. Some of you may even be using those kinds of calculators at work.

Here's a new homebrew program that does the same thing, except without the calculating bit. This new release is from developers JDourlens and XpRz. Called Portable Graphix, this program essentially allows you to draw multiple graphics on your PSP.

At the very least, you could substitute it for your scientific calculator and have an excuse to have a PSP in class or at work. This is the first and last version of the program, according to JDourlens. Here are the features of Portable Graphix:

Features

• Draw multiple graphics
• Save graphics under .png file
• Write things on your graphics

The program does not include a readme, so please be sure you know what you're doing before installing the application.

Download: Portable Graphix

Isaac C. on March 31st, 2008 | File Under Uncategorized | Comments Off -

Kung Fu, Panda Style!

Embark on an epic action-packed adventure based on the DreamWorks Animation movie Kung Fu Panda! Go beyond the movie as you experience Kung Fu awesomeness like never before on your quest to become the legendary Dragon Warrior.

Key Features

• Master your Kung Fu skills as Po, Shifu, and the Furious Five.
• Face dangerous foes on your legendary Kung Fu journey through 13 awesome levels spanning land, water, and air.
• Team up with or battle against your friends in Multiplayer Mode.

PlayStation.com - New Game Releases on March 31st, 2008 | File Under Uncategorized | Comments Off -

A recent press release from Sega Sammy detailed that Sega Korea will be closing its doors. This follows the recent earnings report of the company which showed that it will be losing 26 billion (around US 260,580,266).

No official date has been released on when the subsidiary will be closed yet. According to the statement from Sega Sammy, "the liquidation procedure is to be taken promptly after resolution for dissolution at Sega Korea Ltd."

This is pretty bad news for gamers in Korea. Still, if this is what it takes to help get Sega Sammy back on track (and in the black) then it'll be worth it in the end.

Enrico S. on March 31st, 2008 | File Under Uncategorized | Comments Off -

Sam Bathe, the editor of LOAD Magazine, dropped us an e-mail informing us that the April issue is now out for the PlayStation Portable. Like the previous issue, this is free to download and offers quite a number of interesting articles about music, film, art, and fashion.

This month's issue features some upcoming bands such as Operator Please and Bitchee Bitchee Ya Ya Ya.  In addition, users can also read up on the return of comic book adaptations in the cinemas as well as some exclusive spreads from character artists Aaron St.Goddard and NYC photographer Markus Hartel.

Fashionistas will probably skip right ahead to the article on ioannisdimitrousis who just came back from a London Fashion Week show. Incidentally, this is the first issue of the magazine to have a dedicated fashion coverage.

If you've been looking for something to do, why don't you try downloading this month's issue and checking it out?

Download: LOAD Magazine issue 11

Enrico S. on March 31st, 2008 | File Under Uncategorized | Comments Off -

This morning, SCEA announced that the PLAYSTATION Store will be revamped with a new look in mid-April. We’ve heard your calls for a more fluid Store interface, and we think you’ll be pleased with the results.

As some of the most passionate and knowledgeable PLAYSTATION 3 fans out there, here’s some additional information on the revamped PLAYSTATION Store.

As you can see in the above screenshot, the new interface allows customers to browse through eight primary categories, rather than four, making it easier to locate games, demos, game add-ons and other content. It also enables us to put up to twice as many items per page, significantly cutting down the time it takes to browse through content.

Customers will be able to access, browse, shop and download content as usual prior to the store’s re-opening. However, no additional downloadable content will be posted prior to then, including this Thursday, April 3rd, and next Thursday, April 10th. Regularly scheduled content updates will resume with the Store’s re-opening, at which time additional games and game-related items will be added, including the downloadable version of the highly-anticipated exclusive PS3 title Gran Turismo 5 Prologue.

When the PLAYSTATION Store is set to re-open with the new interface, PS3 users will be prompted to download a firmware update which will enable entry to the new store.

We’ll continue to update readers of the PlayStation.Blog on the status of the PLAYSTATION Store upgrade – including a video walkthrough – in the coming days.

Susan Panico on March 31st, 2008 | File Under PlayStation Network, Statements, playstation store psn | Comments Off -