Mainstream
Is Free To Play The Future ?
There are a lot of predictions going around at the moment about the future of gaming and what platforms will grow and which will die out in the coming years. I’ve read several articles that are predicting that the next batch of consoles will be the last as the big players in the console game are not making money on hardware sales anymore and with several high profile, high quality free to play titles doing very well at the moment there does feel like there many be a change in the air over the next few years. Handheld systems like the PS Vita and Nintendo 3DS are also really having a hard time at the moment due to the rise of smart phones and tablets, but also the lack of software for these handheld systems has been quite alarming over recent months especially for the Vita. Although sales of the 3DS still remain quite strong in Japan.
There have been a couple of very interesting pieces of news that caught my eye over the last few weeks and although not really related to free to play they were both about the PC platform where free to play is currently at, the first was one showing that the PC was the fastest growing platform at the moment and another from EA showing that they made more money from the PC than they did from the PS3 in the first quarter of the year. The news that the PC is the fastest growing platform at the moment probably Isn’t all that surprising as we are so late in the console cycle at the moment with only Nintendo with its Wii U are anything like close to releasing something new into the market. This along with big releases like Diablo 3 and superb free to play titles like Tribes Ascend, Dota 2, World of Tanks and Blacklight:Retribution have drawn many people into PC gaming over the last few months. The second piece of news from EA was much more surprising, EA have almost shown distane towards PC gaming for many years, but with the launch of Origin and big titles like Battlefield 3 and Mass Effect 3 selling very well they are certainly taking the platform more seriously now.
For many years free to play games were sniffed at for being low budget games that generally weren’t very good and most of them weren’t , but this year has seen a real turnaround in attitudes towards these games after several high quality releases. I’ve spent a reasonable amount of time playing Tribes Ascend, Blacklight:Retribution and the soon to be free to play Path of Exile over the last few months and they are all very high quality pieces of software that you really wouldn’t mind parting with some of your hard earned money with to play. Blacklight feels as tight as any Call of Duty multiplayer with the added bonuses of optimized mouse and keyboard controls, a proper field of view for PC and direct x11 visuals that show up any Call of Duty game for the 10 year old game engine that it is running on. Tribes Ascend feels just as good to play, but in a very different way with big open maps and fast paced action its like a throw back to the games of ten years ago and reminds me of playing Unreal Tournament on the low gravity maps.
I think there is a lot of fear in the industry towards free to play games and what they could involve into especially from the big console game developers who don’t really understand or trust the business model of free to play. Developing games is a pretty risky business at the moment with the current world financial climate and games sales falling year on year so investing millions on developing a game that then under performs could be the studios last. So investing millions in a game that’s free to play sounds insane right ?, maybe not. Games like Blacklight and Tribes have a long term business model in mind and not a year after year reboot like many console franchise games that also incur year on year development costs that eat into there profits. Tribes and Blacklight will not have these year on year development costs and have made a game that will be played, added to and supported for many years to come. For course they have to make money somehow and they do it with equipment upgrade packs that are available on Steam and small micro transactions and many people buy these not only for the equipment upgrades, but to support the game almost as a show of respect to the developer for releasing the game as a free to play. Tribes recently passed one million registered players mark a few weeks ago and even if only half of those players buy the $20 starter pack upgrade off Steam, well you do the maths, buts that a pretty nice chunk of cash back to the game developer Hi-Res Studios and that is only in the first year of release. However many people are now starting to say that free to play is just becoming ‘play to win’, a term used for people who buy the equipment upgrade packs and then have an advantage when they play online against people who just have the vanilla game.
There is no reason why the free to play business model can’t work on consoles too with a bit of planning. The distribution model will of course need to be digital which wouldn’t be a problem for the big console players and as long as console manufacturers supply their machines with reasonably sized hard drives then storage of the games shouldn’t be a problem either. The big players will no doubt take a lot of convincing that free to play can work for them, but the makers of the Crysis games Crytek are seeing the potential and are working on their own free to play game called Warface which is due to be released next year. Using CryENGINE 3 this could be the most polished looking free to play game yet.
Free to play got me thinking about a friend of mine who loves his Call of Duty games on the Xbox 360 and the money that he pays year on year to play those games. Living in the UK so he plays £45 for the new game which is released every year, he buys Call of Duty Elite for £35 and of course you must have a Xbox live gold account which costs £40 to play the game online so that’s a total of £120 or roughly $180 that he pays every year which is almost the cost of an Xbox console itself. Many of my console playing friends say that they don’t game on PC because the hardware is too expensive which is a fair point, but if they actually totted up the extra money that they have to pay for their games and the services that they are charged for that should be free they may be surprised with the end result.
Its hard to say at the moment if free to play will be the future, but its growing fast and many of the big game developers will be watching to see how these games do financially to see if it is something worth dipping their toe into in the future. Physical box sales of games are falling year on year and the digital distribution model for games is growing fast and works well with free to play. I would expect many more free to play titles to be announced over the next year on PC adding to the already excellent batch of releases we’ve seen this year. Its a good time to be into PC gaming with the platform having a tremendous amount of diversity and creativity going on at the moment and lets hope it continues for many years to come.
Gaming News
Best Usenet Newsgroups for Gaming
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
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.
Features
Why Investing in Academics Is Investing in Yourself
The quest for knowledge and self-improvement through academic pursuits is more than just a milestone in life; it is a cornerstone of personal development and success. Committing resources to further education is not merely an expense; it is an investment with considerable returns that extend far beyond the classroom. Education equips us with the tools required to navigate an increasingly complex world, opening doors to opportunities and fostering personal growth. Keep reading to discover why allocating time and resources to your academics is a decision that pays dividends for a lifetime.
The Lifelong Returns of Investing in Your Education
Investing in education is akin to planting seeds that blossom into numerous opportunities. Beyond financial gains, education forms the bedrock for career success and personal fulfillment. It empowers individuals to pursue their passions, enhances job satisfaction, and boosts self-esteem through academic achievements. Education serves as a catalyst for social mobility, breaking cycles of poverty by equipping people with the skills needed to improve their lives and contribute positively to society.
This ripple effect extends to lower crime rates and increased civic engagement, benefiting communities at large. Beginning with scholarships for high school sophomores can provide the initial support needed to embark on this transformative journey. These opportunities signify a commitment to nurturing future leaders and fostering a culture of lifelong learning and achievement.
Personal Growth and Lifelong Learning Through Education
Education is a vital aspect of personal development, providing opportunities for growth, character building, and discovering passions and capabilities. It fosters resilience and adaptability, which are essential in all aspects of life. A strong educational foundation encourages lifelong learning, ensuring individuals remain relevant and proactive in their professional and personal lives.
Education also broadens perspectives, exposing individuals to diverse ideas, cultures, and worldviews, fostering empathy, cross-cultural understanding, and appreciation for the human experience. It also allows for critical assessment and engagement with the world from an informed standpoint. The journey through academia often involves self-discovery, helping students uncover their strengths, weaknesses, interests, and values, leading to a more fulfilled life with aligned choices and goals.
Expanding Your Horizons: The Social Benefits of Academics
Academic investment in education is about building social capital through interactions with peers, faculty, and industry professionals. These interactions foster communication skills and relationships, which are crucial for life stages. Extracurricular activities in academic settings provide platforms for students to express themselves, learn new skills, and take on leadership roles.
Collaborative projects and team-based assignments teach students the importance of teamwork, compromise, and collective pursuit of goals. Higher education institutions also serve as a microcosm of society, requiring social awareness and finesse to navigate the diverse cultural, economic, and ideological perspectives.
How Academic Achievement Propels Professional Success
Professional success often hinges on a blend of experiences and achievements, with academic accomplishments playing a crucial role. Excelling in academia fosters a strong work ethic and sharp time-management skills, highly valued in today’s job market. Employers frequently use academic credentials to gauge candidates, especially for specialized roles like those requiring an aa in paralegal studies, where in-depth knowledge is pivotal.
Moreover, higher education equips individuals with specialized knowledge and technical skills that are indispensable in complex roles. Critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, nurtured during academic pursuits, further enhance one’s capacity to tackle challenges creatively. The networks formed during academic years often open doors to valuable career opportunities through mentorships and connections.
Leveraging Educational Investments for Career Advancement Opportunities
Investing in education can significantly impact career advancement, as academic qualifications often lead to promotions, leadership roles, and exclusive professional circles. Continuous education can lead to specialized career paths with higher salaries and statuses, especially in evolving fields. Higher education institutions offer career services like resume-building workshops and job placement programs to help students transition from academia to the workforce effectively.
For those already in the workforce, further education can be a strategic move for career change or progression, with flexible online programs and part-time options allowing working professionals to pursue additional qualifications while maintaining their current positions.
Altogether, the investment in academics is a far-reaching decision that impacts not just your immediate circumstances, but your future potential. As you prioritize your academic pursuits, you build a stronger foundation for success in every aspect of life—professionally, personally, and socially.
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