Mainstream
6 Games that have made 2013 Great
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2013 has been an amazing year for gamers. True there have been times that we have found ourselves confused, upset and angry at all kinds of incidents. However, regardless of all the controversy from all corners of the gaming industry there have always been games which have made everything worthwhile. There are always games that may let us down, some are downright awful, but throughout the year there have been so many games that have made this an amazing year to be a gamer. Here are 6 games that I have enjoyed playing and if you had the option to play them I hope you did. If not it’s never to late.
NOTE: This is not a top 6 list, nor are the games listed in any kind of order. These are simply some of the best games released in 2013 that have made this a great year and I hope everyone has the opportunity to experience most of them.
Tomb Raider
Lara Croft made her triumphant return in a game that made us excited for Tomb Raider again. A new look and new combat system combined with a great story and graphics made the Tomb Raider game many have been waiting for. One of the best adventure games in a long time is not without it’s faults however. Killing hordes of enemies and the lack of real puzzles or actual tombs to explore do hold the game back at times. Fears that it may just be a Uncharted clone however were proven to be false as you control Lara in a huge and rich environment as you battle for survival against both soldiers and the island itself. A game to savour and a franchise that in the future be one of the best around.
Merto: Last Light
Anything but a generic first person shooter, Metro: Last Light is probably the best example of the FPS in all of 2013. The setting, presentation and story are all sensational. Both stealth and survival elements have been added to the standard FPS gameplay make this a game that even someone burnt out on first person shooters take notice. Small touches in the way the gun operate for example add so much to the experience where players take on humans and monster to survive in this post apocalyptic world that is a joy to explore and play through. A game not to be missed for anyone who enjoys FPS games.
The Last of Us
A game that has received so much acclaim from both the media and players alike, there is no doubt the The Last of Us is one of the best games of the year if not the whole generation. Although the gameplay may not be as spectacular or precise as other Naughty Dog games such as Uncharted, everything else is exceptional. The voice acting, sound and level design, story, characterisation and being able to deal with multiple hard hitting themes helps create a game not to be missed. A story beautifully told, graphics to die for and gameplay, although not sensational, has so many weapons to use and items to craft mean fighting, exploring and surviving this world a dream. Even in the calm moments you are totally enthralled with everything this game has to offer that means if you own a Playstation 3 you can play one of the best games in years. If you don’t have a PS3, get one just for this game.
Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance
Platinum games make exactly what there name suggests, they make excellent games. They took a game that on paper should not have worked and made one of the best games of the year. The Metal Gear Solid games have always focus on very story driven stealth gameplay, hack and slash does not seem a great fit into that world. Apart from issues with the camera at times and the story being a little on the short side, this is a game that appeals to casual players, hack and slash and Metal Gear fans alike. A very well told story combined with very high paced action against multiple types of enemies and epic boss battles makes this a real gem with hidden depth and replay value that makes up for the length of the story. Not to be missed.
Grand Theft Auto 5
The biggest game of the year, possibly ever, that has the quality to match the impressive statistics that it has racked up. GTA5 has everything. Story that combines 3 storylines into one giant adventure, gameplay perfect over a multiple games, a huge world to explore, graphics to make your jaw drop and variation to keep anyone entertained for weeks. With one of the most ambitious online features to be attempted in a game such as this that continues to grow to this day, GTA5 is the definition of value for money. It is not perfect, no game is. Bugs are always a factor and the initial launch of GTA Online was awful, but for the few minutes of annoyance you may experience in this game, you will have hours upon hours of joyous GTA gameplay that has made this one of the best games of its generation.
Pokemon X and Y
A franchise past its prime? Pokemon has been around for such a long time now with little changes to the formula over the years that many had lost interest. X and Y injected a spark back into the franchise in a big way. A real upgrade in graphics, gameplay and story telling made this a Pokemon game for everyone. Kids will love, they always do. Fans of the series who have been waiting for a real upgrade will enjoy the changes and world to explore. Old players will come back to play with old favourites and new classics. Even if you are a simply a RPG fan, X and Y has depth and allows you create a team to suit you that you could look past it being a Pokemon even if you have never been a fan. It is not revolutionary, it is still a Pokemon game. Changes and new things have been added but it does not change the world. When you see other play it however you will be tempted to buy it yourself. I did along with 2DS to actually play it on.
2013 will be remembered for many reasons. Mainly it will be the year of the Xbox ONE and Playstation 4. It will be the year Esports continue to grow exponentially. In years to come that will be what you remember 2013 was about. You may forget you played Metro: Last Light in 2013. you may forget 2013 was the year GTA5 came out, but you will not forget the games themselves. The memories remain, the highs and the lows, you will remember the games of 2013.
Mainstream
How Long Is an NBA Basketball Game?
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Basketball is one of the most popular sports in the world, and the National Basketball Association (NBA) is its premier league. For fans and newcomers alike, understanding the structure and duration of an NBA game is essential to fully appreciate the excitement and strategy involved. So, how long is an NBA basketball game? While the answer might seem straightforward, there are several factors that influence the total time.
The Basics: Game Structure
An NBA game is divided into four quarters, each lasting 12 minutes. This means the actual playing time is 48 minutes. However, the total duration of a game is significantly longer due to various stoppages, breaks, and additional rules.
Duration of Professional Basketball Games
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In the NBA, games are divided into four quarters, each lasting 12 minutes, resulting in 48 minutes of actual playing time. However, the total duration of an NBA game is much longer due to various factors:
- Timeouts: Each team is allowed seven timeouts per game, each lasting 75 seconds (with some exceptions for shorter timeouts).
- Fouls and Free Throws: Stoppages for fouls and free throws can add significant time.
- Halftime: A 15-minute break occurs between the second and third quarters.
- Overtime: If the game is tied, 5-minute overtime periods are played until a winner is decided.
On average, an NBA game lasts about 2 to 2.5 hours, though games with frequent stoppages or multiple overtimes can extend closer to 3 hours.
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Halftime and Quarter Breaks
In addition to the playing time and stoppages, there are scheduled breaks during the game:
- Quarter Breaks: After the first and third quarters, there is a brief break of about 130 seconds.
- Halftime: The break between the second and third quarters, known as halftime, lasts 15 minutes. This is when teams regroup, and fans often enjoy entertainment or refreshments.
Length of College Basketball Games
College basketball games, governed by the NCAA, have a slightly different structure. Instead of four 12-minute quarters, college games are divided into two 20-minute halves, totaling 40 minutes of playing time. Despite the shorter playing time, college games often last nearly as long as NBA games due to:
- Media Timeouts: These are mandatory stoppages for TV broadcasts, occurring at the first dead ball after the 16-, 12-, 8-, and 4-minute marks in each half.
- Halftime: A 15-minute break separates the two halves.
- Overtime: Like the NBA, college games use 5-minute overtime periods if the score is tied at the end of regulation.
On average, a college basketball game lasts about 2 hours, though this can vary depending on the pace of play and the number of stoppages.
High School Basketball Game Duration
High school basketball games are shorter than both NBA and college games. They are typically divided into four 8-minute quarters, resulting in 32 minutes of playing time. The total duration of a high school game is influenced by:
- Halftime: A 10-minute break occurs after the second quarter.
- Timeouts: Teams are usually allowed a limited number of timeouts, each lasting 60 seconds.
- Overtime: Overtime periods are typically 4 minutes long.
On average, a high school basketball game lasts about 1.5 hours, making it the shortest of the three levels.
Average Duration of an NBA Game
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Taking all these factors into account, the average NBA game lasts about 2 to 2.5 hours. However, this can vary depending on the pace of play, the number of fouls, timeouts, and whether the game goes into overtime. Some games, especially those with frequent stoppages or multiple overtimes, can stretch closer to 3 hours.
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Factors Influencing Game Length
Several factors can affect the duration of a basketball game, regardless of the level of play:
- Timeouts: Strategic timeouts, media timeouts (in college and professional games), and mandatory stoppages can extend the game.
- Fouls and Free Throws: Frequent fouls lead to more stoppages and free throws, adding to the total time.
- Instant Replay Reviews: In the NBA and college games, referees may review certain plays, which can delay the game.
- Overtime: Tied games that go into overtime can significantly extend the duration.
- Pace of Play: A fast-paced game with fewer stoppages will be shorter than a slower, more deliberate game.
- Injuries or Delays: Unforeseen events, such as player injuries or technical issues, can also add time.
Why Does This Matter?
Understanding the length of an NBA game helps fans plan their viewing experience. Whether you’re attending a game in person or watching from home, knowing the approximate duration allows you to set aside enough time to enjoy the full experience. Additionally, the strategic use of timeouts, fouls, and breaks adds layers of complexity to the game, making it as much a mental battle as a physical one.
Conclusion
While the actual playing time of an NBA game is 48 minutes, the total duration typically ranges from 2 to 2.5 hours due to stoppages, breaks, and potential overtime. This extended time frame allows for the strategic depth and entertainment that make NBA basketball so captivating. So, the next time you settle in to watch a game, you’ll know exactly what to expect in terms of time commitment—and you’ll appreciate the nuances that make every minute count.
Gaming News
Best Usenet Newsgroups for Gaming
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Usenet newsgroups may seem old-fashioned to many. In reality, they are the perfect place for players who love the classics but are always open to new games and strategies. These internet communities are also ideal for those searching for gaming material, solutions to issues, or a conversation related to their favorite video games. Whether you are an experienced player or entering this domain for the first time, Usenet holds a ton of resources that could change how you interact with the gaming world.
Understanding Usenet Newsgroups
Usenet newsgroups, which include gaming groups, are like message boards. People can post messages and articles in different categories. Each group is a special place for certain topics – this makes it simple to find the subjects you want to read about most. The unique characteristic of Usenet lies in its decentralized structure. This permits a much more open interchange of details and information than what is seen on regular social media platforms or forums.
Initially, Usenet was utilized only for academic and professional exchanges. However, it soon turned into a prevalent method for communicating among hobbyists and gaming groups. Presently, even though Usenet has been surpassed by newer platforms in terms of popularity, it continues to be an important tool for knowledgeable users who value its special mix of staying anonymous with fast communication. Knowledgeable users also love access to vast archives containing historical information and software applications that are no longer available elsewhere on the Internet.
Top Usenet Newsgroups for Mobile Games
comp.mobile.games
This is a fresh group dedicated to discussions about mobile games and related technology matters within the industry. Here, you can find conversations about the coding aspects of creating games for mobile devices, like new updates in platforms or fresh game engines being used for development purposes.
rec.games.mobile
The perfect place for people who play games on their mobile devices as a hobby. Here, users talk about strategies, tricks and discuss game evaluations. This group is also suitable for those who are not serious gamers but like to connect with others and discuss playing strategies.
alt.games.mobile
In this newsgroup, users often discuss gaming fixes and give each other suggestions. It is also the go-to place for gamers and die-hard fans that wish to find each and every detail of the game they love to play.
Best Newsgroups for Video Game Discussions
Newsgroups such as alt.games.video and rec.games.video.arcade have lively communities where gamers often engage in exchanges and conversations. These forums are not only for resolving gaming issues or writing reviews; they are centers of enthusiastic discussion regarding gaming culture, strategy, and creation process. Be it the latest RPGs, energetic shooters or old-school arcade games – there is always a thread bustling with discussion.
In these threads, not only will you encounter a variety of views from across the globe, but you may also land on gaming tricks and shortcuts that are lesser known. For those who are new, remember that every group has its own tone and rules. Lurking for a while should help you understand community norms and ensure your contributions are accepted.
Specialized Gaming Newsgroups
Specialized newsgroups are designed for particular gaming communities. They provide a discussion environment that is more centered and focused. These groups are ideal for users who really love a particular game and want to explore it in great depth.
The benefit of these specific groups is their collection of very particular details. Gamers who are part of such a group often exchange unique things like custom mods or skins, and offer advice on how to make gameplay more efficient and fun.
Tips for Using Usenet Newsgroups for Gaming
To enter Usenet, you will first need to pick a provider that is well-known for security, high retention rates and fast speed. To make the right pick, it is a good idea to get the rankings for the best Usenet providers. Next, get advanced newsreader software, as this will allow you to browse through newsgroups easily and manage your activities effectively.
Focus on newsgroups related to gaming and participate in discussions matching your interests to find gaming buddies. Also, make sure that you follow the netiquette of each group while doing so. Utilize newsreader software functions like filters and automation to keep things simple.
Conclusion
Usenet, at first sight, can appear as a choice for oldies or people that have not yet acclimated to social media platforms and forums. However, its distinct characteristics make it very useful for all kinds of gamers. If you are searching for uncommon information, looking for detailed conversations or wish to join a community that matches with your specific interests; Usenet is surely the place for you. Jump in to see how Usenet can add another element of fun to your gaming experiences!
Casual
Encouraging Growth and Motivation: Resources for Child Development
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Child development is a complex journey marked by critical milestones where each stride forward builds upon the foundation of the previous one. Acknowledging children’s individual needs, pediatric therapy services tailor strategies to foster physical, emotional, and cognitive growth. To support this transformative process, environments that prompt curiosity and engagement, coupled with advanced educational tools, play an instrumental role in shaping young minds. These resources, carefully selected and applied, can significantly amplify a child’s developmental trajectory. Keep reading to learn about the effective ways these tools and techniques can aid in advancing childhood milestones.
Pediatric Therapy Services: Enhancing Developmental Milestones
Pediatric therapy services support children as they reach and surpass developmental milestones. These services, often provided by skilled therapists, address various growth challenges, ensuring each child has the best possible start in life. From speech and occupational therapy to physical and behavioral interventions, these professionals tailor their approach to meet the unique needs of every young patient.
Therapists work relentlessly to motivate children, fostering an environment where milestones are not merely achieved but celebrated. Through personalized, one-on-one sessions, children gain the confidence and skills necessary to navigate their developmental journeys more easily. The trust between therapist and child is a solid foundation for consistent progress and paves the path for lifelong learning and adaptation.
Resource provision is a key component of pediatric therapy, equipping parents with the tools to continue therapy practices at home. Effective communication between therapists and families ensures a cohesive strategy that envelops the child’s daily routine, enhancing the therapy’s impact. It also allows parents to identify subtle progress, reinforcing their pivotal role in the child’s developmental success.
If you’re looking for pediatric therapy in your area, a simple Google search like “pediatric therapy Arizona” will help you find local providers and services tailored to your child’s needs, ensuring they receive the specialized care necessary for their development.
Optimizing Play Spaces: Creating Environments for Learning and Exploration
Optimized play spaces are vital platforms where children engage with their world, build skills, and unleash their creativity. Designers of such areas pay astute attention to elements that promote safe exploration and intellectual stimulation. A thoughtfully arranged play environment serves as a place of entertainment and a crucible for burgeoning development.
Professionals incorporate a variety of tactile and visual stimuli within play areas to cater to diverse developmental needs and interests. Stimulating sensory experiences is central to cognitive and motor skill refinement among younger populations. The intentional selection of colors, textures, and interactive features sparks curiosity and encourages physical activity, which is fundamental to healthy growth.
Accessibility remains paramount in creating play spaces, ensuring they cater to children across all abilities. Including adaptive resources within these environments demonstrates a commitment to inclusive development, allowing every child to participate and benefit from the joy and learning play offers. Such inclusiveness fosters a sense of community and belonging, which is essential for emotional and social development.
Affording children autonomy in their play advances self-directed learning and problem-solving capabilities. When children feel empowered to make choices within their play, they better understand their preferences and abilities, setting the stage for confidence and self-awareness — qualities that are instrumental as children grow and transition through life’s stages.
Additionally, incorporating elements like fake plants or outdoor plants from retailers like Nearly Natural outdoor plants into play spaces can enhance children’s sensory and aesthetic experience.
Interactive Learning Tools: Technology and Resources for Cognitive Development
Interactive learning tools harness technology’s power to solidify children’s cognitive development. These digital resources provide an array of engaging, educational content that aligns with critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Software and applications designed for children’s learning capitalize on the allure of multimedia to capture young minds. Effective education solutions provide children with stimulating challenges that are age-appropriate and aligned with developmental targets.
The discerning use of educational technology in classrooms and homes can reinforce concepts and skills taught through traditional methods. It creates a harmonious blend of instruction and interactive play, thereby cementing a child’s understanding and retention of information.
Providers of such educational platforms are ever vigilant, updating content to reflect new educational strategies and the latest academic research. Thus, children equipped with these technological tools remain at the vanguard of current learning methodologies, all while engrossed in fun and dynamic ways.
Overall, caregivers and educators can provide comprehensive support for children’s developmental journeys by integrating pediatric therapy services, optimized play spaces, and interactive learning tools. These resources nurture their physical, emotional, and cognitive growth and cultivate a lifelong love for learning and exploration.
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Kris
December 11, 2013 at 3:56 am
Lol at including Last of Us, Tomb Raider and Metro, but no Bioshock Infinite. That game’s story knocks all others out the park. Combine that with how it wraps it around its gameplay. The Art, the voice acting, the gameplay variety.
Liam
December 11, 2013 at 12:13 pm
Bioshock Infinite is a good game. The story is very good but the actual gameplay is nothing sensational. It is by far the weakest part of the game and becomes very repetitive very quickly. That is all that lets it down for me. The story made the game feel epic and exciting but there is no area of the game where I was killing hundreds of enemies that I will remember except for having to do the same boss battle 3 times, that just sucked and will be remembered for the wrong reasons. I liked the game and I will remember the story and the world it is set in, but felt no need to add it to this list. But everyone has their own opinion so if you loved it that’s fine too.