A new Xbox design, and a new Media Remote with it. When Microsoft announced the Slim Xbox 360, with a glossy case and black instead of the once proudly-displayed white matte finish, it only made sense that followup hardware would follow a similar route: slimming down and gaining a sleeker design. This holiday Microsoft released a few peripherals, one of which was the Xbox 360 Media Remote. I’ve used it since it a ton since IPTV through the Xbox became a reality, and it’s a great piece of hardware to own.

For comparison, let’s take a look at the original Xbox 360 media remote. It’s roughly the same length as the newer model, but is stockier, and has an overall larger feel. The white design is easy to see and matches original 360 consoles, but the size makes it inconvenient for a living room setting. It’s wider and thicker than almost every cable box or TV remote I’ve ever seen. Compare that to the Universal Media Remote, which is much larger and bulkier, and now you have a new king of remote controls by size alone.

The new model is thin and sleek. It combines the Universal Remote’s use-anywhere traits and the smaller size of the original Media Remote in an even smaller form factor. This new Media Remote is by no means thin at an inch thick, but it’s comfortable in the hand, far more than either two remotes before it. The button layout leaves a lot to be desired, however, depending on how you use it. As a universal remote the channel buttons are too low and video navigation (pause, play, fast forward/rewind, etc.) are too high. For Xbox 360 use, the button scheme is exceptional, though it feels better for the left hand than the right hand.

The Media Remote is much smaller than the universal remote. Unfortunately I've lost mine, so no direct size comparison

My bigger concern isn’t with the remote so much, but the lack of proper software implementation on the Xbox 360 itself. When watching TV through the game console, it’s impossible to switch to specific channels without going through the guide or flipping through one at a time.

The overall experience of watching TV through the Xbox with just the Media Remote isn’t as great as it can be. It can easily be improved in two ways: speed up channel flipping (right now there’s a 2-5 second buffer delay between channels), and allow for a more cable TV-like viewing experience. Today it just feels too slow and too cumbersome.

At just $20, it’s more expensive than most universal remotes but a much better option for Xbox 360 owners. Even if you just have the game console, new video apps like Crackle, and streaming apps like Hulu Plus and Netflix make owning the Media Remote worthwhile. Even if it spends most of its days sitting quietly on your coffee table, this remote is a solid, simple and worthwhile purchase that you can’t regret.

Editor’s Rating:

4 out of 5 stars

Great

Bottom Line: A great remote that’s better than the original, and does everything you need for a good price.

Pros:

• Smaller, slimmer, better than the original
• Packs two prior remotes into one with a solid build and design

There’s one thing that Playstation 3 gamers have always held over the heads of Xbox 360 owners, and that is headsets. The PS3 supports Bluetooth, so any wireless headset of your choosing will work for both your phone and console. The 360, meanwhile, had only one wireless headset, from Microsoft directly, and it only functioned with the Xbox 360 (or a PC with the wireless receiver). Without building Bluetooth into the console, Microsoft solved the other problem: a multi-function headset.

The Xbox 360 Wireless Headset with Bluetooth is exactly that, a single headset with both Bluetooth and 2.4GHz built into a single device. It’s big and sleek with a glossy finish, and simple with just four buttons and a single switch. Power, connect (with the Xbox controller ring), volume rocker, and the Bluetooth/RF switch. There’s also a tiny sync button behind the earpiece.

This headset is huge. It’s more than twice the size of the Plantronics Marque M155, though the dark design doesn’t make it stand out obnoxiously, remaining large yet elegant. Until fingerprints collect on that glossy surface, that is. The large size poses another problem, one unique to most headsets: the earpiece is made to wear outside the ear. This design choice is good for gaming – after all, in-ear headsets block sound on the side they are worn on – but for standard use has no noise cancellation. Considering that the Wireless Headset w/Bluetooth is designed to work for and outside of gaming, this may prove too much for some consumers.

I tested the headset for both phonecalls and gaming, and there are two highs and lows of the device. First, switching between “game” mode and “work” mode is a simple flick of the switch. What makes it great is the coloring on the switch: when set for Bluetooth, the open section of the switch (see picture below) shows blue. When set for gaming, it shows green. I never had trouble between the two modes because of this. Second, the headset can get very loud thanks to the larger earpiece, and likewise has fairly good battery life. With on and off use I’ve managed a week of use before charging, playing on my Xbox 360, Playstation 3, and for occasional phone calls.

The lows may be the bigger worry. Once again, the size is a limiting factor because the it’s heavy. If you have sensitive ears and generally find Bluetooth headsets uncomfortable, this one will fare worse than most. I found it uncomfortable to wear after 30 minutes of continuous use, but then again I need very light sets. The second, again, is that the earpiece itself sits outside the ear. This makes the headset almost always feel like it’s sliding off even when perfectly stable, and not offering the level of comfort and security found on the traditional Wireless Headset or typical Bluetooth headsets.

The type of user who would be most interested in the Wireless Headset with Bluetooth is someone who owns multiple consoles and plays on both online, or someone who has a workstation that seats both consoles and a computer. The headset is made for the multi-tool user, the kind of person who is connected in multiple ways at once, through as many platforms as it takes. Playing on a PS3, 360, and switching between my iPhone, desktop computer, and a handful of Android phones was a cinch. Not only because most of the devices sit at one place – my workstation – but because the headset never leaves. It charges via MicroUSB like my wireless mouse, and remains on my desk with a small pile of regularly used peripherals. It’s the perfect multi-use gaming headset.

I’d prefer something smaller and lighter, because I personally don’t like heavier headsets, but even then Microsoft’s design is very solid. I recommend it to all but the most sensitive-eared users, and not to anyone who wants to just use it for telephony. The Wireless Headset with Bluetooth is made to be worn while still, seated. Not while walking about. The only thing that’s missing is a charging dock, which I’d gladly keep on a coffee table or my workplace to keep things tidy and organized.

Editor’s Rating:

3.5 out of 5 stars

Very Good

Bottom Line: The Wireless Headset with Bluetooth is an excellent option for multi-console gamers who play in one space. Great for gaming, not good for walking around on the phone with. Bulky, with good battery life.

Pros:

• Good battery life
• Simple RF/BT switch
• Great to use with multiple devices and consoles

Now that we’ve hit 2012 we can expect to see some nice reduced prices on our favorite consoles. And that’s just what we found here with Best Buy’s take on the Xbox 360 with Kinect bundle which is only $349.99! This version of the xbox is the top model, including a large 250GB hard drive, the up-to-date slim black design and Kinect all included in the box. As most of you know the Kinect allows for full motion controls in pretty much all aspects including cameras and microphones. The Xbox 360 has a huge library of thousands of games, and these include the hit titles: The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, Call of Duty Modern Warfare 3, Gears of War 3, Portal 2 and much more with new ones coming out every day. Be sure to hit this deal up while it lasts!

This is the best deal we’ve seen for this bundle.  It’s $349.99, which is $50 off the retail price and includes Free S&H.  Tax applies in many states

It’s one thing to play with the fishes, another to take a swim with them.  Catch our drift?  But you’ll be doing neither with this bad ass Xbox 360 mod. Before you get too excited, though, you should know it’s not a working Xbox 360.  It’s been gutted and replaced with, you guessed it, coral and more.  In fact, it contains live fish, crabs, snails, and shrimp.

The maker, Spencer of Blue World Aquariums, didn’t toss everything out, though.  He used the original power supply and outfitted it with low voltage LED lighting that changes color.  And in case you were wondering, the water volume is just .45 gallons and the tank is made from glass, measuring 6″ long, 8″ tall, and 2.5″ wide.

It’s just too bad that the Xbox 360 doesn’t actually, or should we say still play games.  Because if it did, this would be the world’s most amazing Xbox 360 mod, as well as the most hap-hazardous to you and your surrounding equipment.

You may have heard. Gaming is one of today’s most expensive hobbies. Games for major platforms like the Xbox 360 or Playstation 3 cost $60 each, while Wii and PC games are generally $50 a pop. Mobile games are cheaper, but for big, cinematic experiences, players need to be sitting at their couch or at their computer, facing down hordes of demons, zombies or whatever else comes their way.

So what games can you get for your significant other, for your kids or parents, or for friends? We’ve got a great list of titles you should pick up, but just make sure they don’t already have it!

Xbox 360 Exclusive Games

Gears of War 3

It promised to be one of the biggest action titles of the year, and developer Epic Games pulled through on that promise. Gears of War 3 is an amicable conclusion to the Xbox 360 sci-fi saga, one that includes a fun, sordid campaign and several excellent multiplayer modes that continue to excite even months later. You don’t want to pass on this.

Forza Motorsport 4

Forza Motorsport 3 was huge, with over 400 cars and a disc just to install a ton of content. Forza 4 does all of that and more, with better photorealistic graphics, more cars and tracks, Kinect functionality, and the same great racing. If there’s a racing game to get this holiday, it’s Forza 4.

Dance Central 2

The original Dance Central was revolutionary; it took the dancing games we all wanted to enjoy on the Wii and made dancing in front of a TV fun. Whether it’s to work out, to learn some dance moves, or to make a fool of yourself at a party, Dance Central 2 ups the ante with two-players dancing side-by-side and a slew of new songs to get jiggy with. I wouldn’t call it kid-friendly; most of the tracks are fairly explicit (no bad words, but there is plenty of questionable content), though you’re likely to hear them on the radio nonetheless. Games like Dance Central are the reason to own a Kinect.

Halo: Anniversary

The game that brought the Xbox into the limelight returns, completely revamped with new HD graphics, online coop, and new game modes available in last year’s Halo: Reach. It may not look quite right to play the old classic with such updated graphics (I myself just love the old-school blocky textures), and the game isn’t an exact duplicate. Grizzled ancients will have new secrets to hunt and unlock while younger gamers who missed the original can give the game that started it all a serious go. For $40 it’s a great buy, even if you own the original Halo: Combat Evolved like I do because of the improved resolution and the chance to play it over Xbox Live.

Playstation 3 Exclusive Games

Uncharted 3: Drake’s Deception

If there’s one definitive franchise for the Playstation 3, it’s Uncharted. The first title, Drake’s Fortune, was great, but had a lot of room to grow. The second, Uncharted 2: Among Thieves, quickly became a fan favorite, and the third, Drake’s Deception, is a stunning cinematic experience. A stunning single-player campaign, a fabulously fun cooperative play mode and a different yet still bombastic multiplayer make Drake’s Deception a must-buy, for the few who don’t have it already. Because if you don’t, you are surely missing out. It’s one of the few games where you can actually enjoy watching someone else play, and never picking up a controller yourself.

Infamous 2

There are few games that inspire the feeling of “I wish I could do that in real life” more than Infamous 2, at least for me every time I see a power line. While the original was a strong game, Infamous 2 picks action up a notch and gives players not only several different massive cities to explore, but the ability to take on player-created missions, and even make their own. That, along with some very fun DLC, makes Infamous 2 a must-have.

The Ico & Shadow of the Colossus Collection

Both Ico and Shadow of the Colossus are incredible games, both ahead of their time and timeless. I sadly missed both when they released back for the PS2, but caught up and am so glad I did. Both of these games are just incredible, the kind that make you gape in wonder, that make you constantly feel astounded. Your kids may hate you because both games feel slow, with limited action going on at any given point of time, but few games ever manage to reach the level of sophistication and artistry these two do. Bundling them together with improved graphics is just a side bonus.

Great Multi-Console Games

Batman: Arkham City

The return of the Dark Knight this decade has just been astounding. First two (and soon a third) film, then an amazing game, and now a kickass sequel. Batman: Arkham City is not just a romp around a fine prison; it’s a full-scale town to silently stalk through. Arkham City is a definite best-buy for any player, not only because the game is just so fun, but because many gamers missed it in the flood of holiday games. Don’t let this one pass you by.

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3

It’s big. Everyone wants it. It’s Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3. In fact, if you don’t already have it, the only question is why not? We loved it, all your friends are playing it, and unless you’re stuck in Skyrim (see below), there’s no reason Modern Warfare 3 shouldn’t be in your game collection.

Rage

As good and bad as some games are, few are as jam-packed with excellent content and top-of-the-line features as Rage. It’s got a lot of holes to plug, and a lot of minor gripes that will annoy. But I guarantee that it‘s not only an excellent first person shooter, but that it really pushes the bounds of what it means to be a shooter. Rage may not be the greatest game to come out this year, but it will certainly open your eyes to the possibilities of future games, and be exciting the whole while. Just don’t forget to save often.

Portal 2

The best puzzle game this year, period. It’s bigger, smarter, and has a deeper story than the original, plus room for two players with double the portal action. Coop alone makes Portal 2 a great buy. Free future updates only guarantee that you’ll want to keep it.

Battlefield 3

Modern Warfare 3 may own the multiplayer Rambo-style of gaming, but Battlefield 3 is for the team-players, the ones who will grab their friends for an hour-long bout against an equally intelligent group for serious, vehicle-filled combat. Battlefield is for console strategists. Feel free to run and gun, but unless that’s your specialty, your team can definitely use another great member of the crew. Be it.

Deus Ex: Human Revolution

As a sleeper hit, Human Revolution isn’t quite the game that the original Deus Ex was, but that doesn’t take away from the game any. It pits players in the same neo-techno future, with body augmentations, incredible combat maneuvers, and multiple ways to play the game, including stealth, engineering, and soldier. It’s one game that’s easy to miss, but don’t. There is so much to do in the big city, it’s like a miniature RPG.

Rayman: Origins

Rayman: Origins is one of those really great games that everyone in the family can enjoy. The simple platforming is complex enough to remain entertaining for hours on end, yet with instant cooperative play with up to four players on a home console, it’s always a fun time with everyone racing and slapping each other all the way to the finish. If there’s one way to spend the Thanksgiving holiday weekend, Christmas, or any family time together when you’re snowed/rained in, Rayman: Origins is it.

Dark Souls

Beware: this is for masochists only! Dark Souls, the sequel to Demons Souls, is an RPG with a difficulty curve that will either make you break your controller in frustration or feel right at home with the sheer insanity of this unforgiving game. If that sounds like the perfect gift for someone, either because they’d love it or end up breaking their game console in frustration, then this is a must-buy.

Saint’s Row: The Third

Saint’s Row: The Third is not what you’d expect from a massive sandbox game in the vein of Grand Theft Auto. It’s goofy, over the top in every way, and rombunctiously fun. So much so that I had to make up a word to describe it, because this game is insane in just about every way. That’s not to say you won’t love it…just keep it out of reach from the kids.

Assassin’s Creed: Revelations

Assassin’s Creed is one of the few game franchises where every game may feel oh-so-similar to the last, but even then the games are still so damn fun it’s impossible to put down. All of the Assassin’s Creed titles have just been incredible, even though Shawn and I may disagree on just how good. But there’s one thing we both agree on: these games are a blast to play. Assassin’s Creed: Revelations doesn’t quite take the franchise to the next level, still following Ezio Auditore from Assassin’s Creed: Brotherhood, but it further unfolds the tale, both past and present, of the everlong struggle between the Assassin’s and Knights Templar. A blockbuster hit you won’t want to miss.

Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim

Skyrim is the one game you’ve probably seen not only a handful of ads in larger cities, but new internet meme’s popping up daily about. In fact, you don’t have to go far to learn what Skyrim is, which is one of the biggest, most incredible RPGs to come out this year. Our own Shawn Kline loved it. A definite must have, but be warned: you probably won’t be seeing much of whomever you give it to. That may make it a great, or terrible, gift idea.

Metal Gear Solid: HD Collection

There are few games that stand the test of time. Metal Gear Solid isn’t just one game, but an entire series that does exactly that. That’s why the game’s creator Hideo Kojima keeps making new ones even after consistently saying he’s done. That’s why years later people talk about the incredible experience they had in Snake Eater, or how they once ate Alligator meat in the game. Sure, it’s zany and over the top, but putting the Metal Gear Solid 2, 3, and Peace Walker in one bundle, in  HD, is just another reason to play it, or to buy it for the new generation that didn’t grow up with METAL GEEEEEEAR!

Own an Xbox 360? Know someone who does, or perhaps doesn’t but really wants to? Then look no further, because Gadget Review has you completely covered with Microsoft’s game console and all the exclusive titles you’ll need from this year’s lineup. To sweeten the guide, we’ve even included a handful of accessories that will make for great gifts this holiday for any Xbox 360 owner. Or for that good friend who hasn’t quite made the jump yet.

Hardware

Xbox 360 Limited Edition Call of Duty:
Modern Warfare 3 Console

It’s the gift that keeps on giving. Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 is already the biggest game this year, and every one of your friends is playing it. Up the ante with the full MW3 Xbox 360, which features a 320GB hard drive, two custom-painted new (with the improved D-pad) wireless controllers, and of course the game. The stunning paint job worked wonders for the photoshoot, and it looks just as good in real life. Whether it’s for yourself or a friend, a big hard drive and an awesome-looking Xbox is the way to go. This bundle does not disappoint.

Xbox 360 Media Remote

The original Xbox 360 media remote was big, bulky, and matched the white and green color scheme of the original Xbox 360 design. So with the Xbox 360 Slim, which comes in a standard glossy black, comes a sleek, elegant and new media remote. Able to turn on any Xbox 360 without the need to sync, the Media Remote con completely control the Xbox 360 for navigating menus, controlling media playback, and taking over your TV as a universal remote. For that last feature alone, the Media Remote is great at a low price of $19.99. Add onto that all the streaming media you can get through the Xbox 360 like Hulu Plus and ESPN, and the Media Remote is a must-have for the family room Xbox 360.

Mad Catz MLG Arcade Fightstick: Tournament Edition

When it comes to fighting games, you don’t want to rely on just a gamepad, especially when the fight turns serious. You want a fightstick, a full-on arcade-style eight button+joystick setup that’s built to last. Mad Catz has had a few great ones over the past few years, and the MLG Arcade Fightstick: Tournament Edition is no joke. Full-size, full-weight, and full-power, the MLG fightstick is built with Sanwa buttons and joystick to give it that real arcade-machine feeling, that can handle any pounding from hundreds or thousands of people. So bang on this bad boy all you want, it’s made to last.

Xbox 360 Wireless Headset w/Bluetooth

Wireless headsets for the Xbox 360 are great, but they only work with the Xbox, nothing else. For users who only need the one, that’s great, but if you’re looking for a multi-purpose headset, or just want to use one for your gaming and telephony needs, the Xbox 360 Wireless Headset w/Bluetooth has you covered. With the flick of a switch it toggles between Bluetooth and Xbox 360 communication. This on-the-ear headset is comfortable to wear and works very well with both the game console and mobile phones, and it’s been a strange pleasure to use it for both. It’s for a niche customer base, and a solid piece of hardware that makes a great stocking-stuffer.

Kinect Sensor + Nyko Zoom

Kinect is quickly becoming the ultimate living-room experience, whether it’s for gaming or for shouting at your Xbox to change the channel or pause the movie. Kinect is changing the way we interact with our media, and this holiday it’s one thing no Xbox 360 owner should want to miss.

And for anyone who already has Kinect knows how frustrating it can be to use it in a small-ish room. Kinect is built for the family room, larger spaces with plenty of distance between the couch and the TV. But, like many of you, I don’t have such a family room. My media center is a rectangular-shaped box with a round-abound couch, a coffee table and 3-5 feet of space to walk. Kinect needs 8-10 between you and the TV.

Not with the Nyko Zoom. The Zoom is a simple set of lenses that pops over the Kinect to make the cameras see objects closer than they actually are, almost halving the required distance from the Kinect. It’s especially great for individual players because their space of play will suddenly be much closer to the TV, be much more defines, and helps cut those rare instances where the Kinect doesn’t read your movements properly in half. Kinect will change the way you use your Xbox, and Nyko’s Zoom will help make that change, specifically for gaming in more confined spaces, a much more pleasant reality.

Xbox 360 Wireless Speed Wheel

Okay, so it’s a wireless racing wheel. It seems like a joke, and perhaps is when compared to simulation-grade wheels from the likes of Logitech and Thrustmaster. But this racing wheel has one thing those wheels don’t: it’s always fun. Playing with the Wireless Speed Wheel is a constant struggle of holding the wheel upright, timing your turns and not taking the race too seriously. Sure, you can play Forza Motorsport 4 with it, or arcade racers like Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit. But if you pull out this wheel when playing with friends, it becomes a ton of fun.

Mad Catz Gears of War 3 7.1 Dolby Surround Sound Headset

Even if you aren’t a fan of Gears of War, the 7.1 Surround Sound Headset is a great sounding surround headset. It sounds good, has a convenient one-cable solution, is USB powered and works on the Xbox 360, PS3 and PC. Besides for the fact that it’s just a plain good headset, Gears fans will love the light-up skull earcans.

Xbox 360 Exclusive Games

Gears of War 3

It promised to be one of the biggest action titles of the year, and developer Epic Games pulled through on that promise. Gears of War 3 is an amicable conclusion to the Xbox 360 sci-fi saga, one that includes a fun, sordid campaign and several excellent multiplayer modes that continue to excite even months later. You don’t want to pass on this.

Forza Motorsport 4

Forza Motorsport 3 was huge, with over 400 cars and a disc just to install a ton of content. Forza 4 does all of that and more, with better photorealistic graphics, more cars and tracks, Kinect functionality, and the same great racing. If there’s a racing game to get this holiday, it’s Forza 4.

Dance Central 2

The original Dance Central was revolutionary; it took the dancing games we all wanted to enjoy on the Wii and made dancing in front of a TV fun. Whether it’s to work out, to learn some dance moves, or to make a fool of yourself at a party, Dance Central 2 ups the ante with two-players dancing side-by-side and a slew of new songs to get jiggy with. I wouldn’t call it kid-friendly; most of the tracks are fairly explicit (no bad words, but there is plenty of questionable content), though you’re likely to hear them on the radio nonetheless. Games like Dance Central are the reason to own a Kinect.

Halo: Anniversary

The game that brought the Xbox into the limelight returns, completely revamped with new HD graphics, online coop, and new game modes available in last year’s Halo: Reach. It may not look quite right to play the old classic with such updated graphics (I myself just love the old-school blocky textures), and the game isn’t an exact duplicate. Grizzled ancients will have new secrets to hunt and unlock while younger gamers who missed the original can give the game that started it all a serious go. For $40 it’s a great buy, even if you own the original Halo: Combat Evolved like I do because of the improved resolution and the chance to play it over Xbox Live.

Great Multi-Console Games

Batman: Arkham City

The return of the Dark Knight this decade has just been astounding. First two (and soon a third) film, then an amazing game, and now a kickass sequel. Batman: Arkham City is not just a romp around a fine prison; it’s a full-scale town to silently stalk through. Arkham City is a definite best-buy for any player, not only because the game is just so fun, but because many gamers missed it in the flood of holiday games. Don’t let this one pass you by.

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3

It’s big. Everyone wants it. It’s Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3. In fact, if you don’t already have it, the only question is why not? We loved it, all your friends are playing it, and unless you’re stuck in Skyrim (see below), there’s no reason Modern Warfare 3 shouldn’t be in your game collection.

Rage

As good and bad as some games are, few are as jam-packed with excellent content and top-of-the-line features as Rage. It’s got a lot of holes to plug, and a lot of minor gripes that will annoy. But I guarantee that it‘s not only an excellent first person shooter, but that it really pushes the bounds of what it means to be a shooter. Rage may not be the greatest game to come out this year, but it will certainly open your eyes to the possibilities of future games, and be exciting the whole while. Just don’t forget to save often.

Portal 2

The best puzzle game this year, period. It’s bigger, smarter, and has a deeper story than the original, plus room for two players with double the portal action. Coop alone makes Portal 2 a great buy. Free future updates only guarantee that you’ll want to keep it.

Battlefield 3

Modern Warfare 3 may own the multiplayer Rambo-style of gaming, but Battlefield 3 is for the team-players, the ones who will grab their friends for an hour-long bout against an equally intelligent group for serious, vehicle-filled combat. Battlefield is for console strategists. Feel free to run and gun, but unless that’s your specialty, your team can definitely use another great member of the crew. Be it.

Deus Ex: Human Revolution

As a sleeper hit, Human Revolution isn’t quite the game that the original Deus Ex was, but that doesn’t take away from the game any. It pits players in the same neo-techno future, with body augmentations, incredible combat maneuvers, and multiple ways to play the game, including stealth, engineering, and soldier. It’s one game that’s easy to miss, but don’t. There is so much to do in the big city, it’s like a miniature RPG.

Rayman: Origins

Rayman: Origins is one of those really great games that everyone in the family can enjoy. The simple platforming is complex enough to remain entertaining for hours on end, yet with instant cooperative play with up to four players on a home console, it’s always a fun time with everyone racing and slapping each other all the way to the finish. If there’s one way to spend the Thanksgiving holiday weekend, Christmas, or any family time together when you’re snowed/rained in, Rayman: Origins is it.

Dark Souls

Beware: this is for masochists only! Dark Souls, the sequel to Demons Souls, is an RPG with a difficulty curve that will either make you break your controller in frustration or feel right at home with the sheer insanity of this unforgiving game. If that sounds like the perfect gift for someone, either because they’d love it or end up breaking their game console in frustration, then this is a must-buy.

Saint’s Row: The Third

Saint’s Row: The Third is not what you’d expect from a massive sandbox game in the vein of Grand Theft Auto. It’s goofy, over the top in every way, and rombunctiously fun. So much so that I had to make up a word to describe it, because this game is insane in just about every way. That’s not to say you won’t love it…just keep it out of reach from the kids.

Assassin’s Creed: Revelations

Assassin’s Creed is one of the few game franchises where every game may feel oh-so-similar to the last, but even then the games are still so damn fun it’s impossible to put down. All of the Assassin’s Creed titles have just been incredible, even though Shawn and I may disagree on just how good. But there’s one thing we both agree on: these games are a blast to play. Assassin’s Creed: Revelations doesn’t quite take the franchise to the next level, still following Ezio Auditore from Assassin’s Creed: Brotherhood, but it further unfolds the tale, both past and present, of the everlong struggle between the Assassin’s and Knights Templar. A blockbuster hit you won’t want to miss.

Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim

Skyrim is the one game you’ve probably seen not only a handful of ads in larger cities, but new internet meme’s popping up daily about. In fact, you don’t have to go far to learn what Skyrim is, which is one of the biggest, most incredible RPGs to come out this year. Our own Shawn Kline loved it. A definite must have, but be warned: you probably won’t be seeing much of whomever you give it to. That may make it a great, or terrible, gift idea.

Metal Gear Solid: HD Collection

There are few games that stand the test of time. Metal Gear Solid isn’t just one game, but an entire series that does exactly that. That’s why the game’s creator Hideo Kojima keeps making new ones even after consistently saying he’s done. That’s why years later people talk about the incredible experience they had in Snake Eater, or how they once ate Alligator meat in the game. Sure, it’s zany and over the top, but putting the Metal Gear Solid 2, 3, and Peace Walker in one bundle, in  HD, is just another reason to play it, or to buy it for the new generation that didn’t grow up with METAL GEEEEEEAR!

Thanks to Amazon you can grab this new Modern Warfare 3 Xbox 360 and get $50 credit along with it!

Fresh for the release of MW3 Amazon is offering you some extra credit with your order of the brand new special edition Xbox. This 360 comes with a brand new paint job which spreads to the controllers and of course has a copy of Call of duty Modern Warfare 3 included. In addition it also has downloadable avatar items and of course with $50 of credit to go with it you have plenty to either get more games or more accessories to enhance your gaming experience further. This model includes the large 320GB hard drive, more than enough to meet the gaming cravings you need. This offer won’t last long, nor will this special edition so grab it fast!

Buy this console from Amazon and you’ll not only get COD MW3, but also get a $50 credit that can be used to purchase anything off Amazon.

Buy.com via eBay has an exciting discount offer available on this Microsoft Xbox 360 System 4GB Kinect Bundle!

Yep, you heard that right; now you can grab the 360 with the Kinect for just $250! Of course by now we all know what the Xbox 360 from Microsoft is capable of, and now for the holiday season it’s the perfect time to either plan a gift, begin your console experience or even upgrade from a previous model. This version of Xbox is much slimmer and more stylish then before, with it’s full black paint job and new look and feel to go along with it. It includes the Kinect within the bundle and that’s a $100 value on its own and provides for some intense motion control games where your body is the controller and the sky is the limit. Also included is the Kinect Adventures! game so you can begin enjoying the system and all of its capabilities without the need for additional purchases. This model includes 4GBs of internal memory which can be added to with hard drives.

Watch out, because this deal is gonna expire soon.  This bundle is usually far more, but now you can get the Kinect and the 360 for just $249.99.  S&H is free.

2 out of 5 stars

Even if you aren’t a pro gamer, every player has the urge not only to win, but to get the upper hand. I always do, so I always stay on the lookout for things that can boost my performance in-game without cheating. MadCatz’ Throat Communicator may seem like an odd choice, but for anyone who has sat at their Xbox for over an hour, the idea of a more comfortable way to talk with friends and teammates online worth looking into.

In this case, only if you normally play games while eating baby seals while wearing a dog collar.

The MadCatz Throat Communicator, a Gears of War 3 accessory built specifically to ease the burden of wearing a wired or wireless microphone directly on the ear, is a concept I stand behind. I use Microsoft’s wireless headset, and though it works well, after an hour my gets sore. The same applies for most headsets, wired or wireless, unless they’re all-encompassing and act as speakers as well (see our review of the MadCatz 7.1 Surround Headset for more). So a headset that doesn’t rest on that floppy cartilage on the side of our heads intrigues me from the start.

The design is simple, though flawed: the neck-brace is worn one-way, with wires on the right, and a microphone is built into the right side to more accurately catch sound from your throat. That means if you like wearing your headset on the left, sucks to be you (myself included). If you do, all other players will hear are guttural tones and sometimes even a pulse. Worn on the right, one cable connects to the Xbox controller while the other is an in-ear speaker, which is comfortable and easy to use. It also comes with three cushion sizes so anyone over the age of 13 (or kids with bobble-size heads) can wear it.

In fact, based solely on the design and in use, there’s nothing wrong with the Throat Communicator. The neck brace is comfortable to wear (though there are four sharp corners, which I filed down to a less heinous level of ow), the speaker is light and tiny and volume controls are easy to adjust. I played several online matches with the Throat Communicator and was happy as could be. That is, until I opened my mouth.

Once you do that, dear friends, all bets are off. The first group of randoms demanded I take the microphone out of my mouth. The next (I assume) muted me because of the sound I made. It wasn’t until several friends of mine appeared online who told me that yes, a mix of walrus and crocodile was talking to them in illegible noises. So I recorded myself, using the simple message-sending application through Xbox Live, along with my smartphone recording from my speakers, so you can hear what I sounded like. You can see that below.

MadCatz Throat Communicator Sample Audio by jamezrp

Think about how you’d feel hearing that in an in-game lobby. Or mid-game. Or when you bark about that asshole teammate who just shot you in the back, and hearing only the mumbled stomach-pangs retort of an agitated narwal. Not pleasant. After attempting to rearrange the microphone, to better place it so I could be clearly understood, I’ve found no easy way to accomplish this, should any exist. The best sounding I’ve been was when I held the microphone away from my throat, to which I sound normal.

The sad truth is that no matter how much more comfortable or convenient something may be, if it doesn’t work, it’s useless. The Throat Communicator is a smart idea, but the tech just isn’t there. I’d have gladly paid more than the current $30 for not just a military-based design, but a military-grade set. However, I intend to open it up and attempt to extend the microphone to mouth-level, thereby solving my own ear-weight problem. If you don’t do something of the sort, stick with your current method of communication. That is, unless you just want to troll Xbox Live users. There’s way to many of them out there to not make up its own market.

The MadCatz Throat Communicator is available for purchase from Amazon for about $28.

Pros:

• Comfortable for long periods of time
• Lightweight, easy to store

Cons:

• People on the other side can’t understand a word you say
• Jagged edges are harsh on skin and need to be filed down
• Only “works” on one side

Newegg is offering an added bonus for your purchase of this Microsoft Xbox 360 Slim 250GB Game Console with $50 Gift Card for $299.99 + Free Shipping = $299.99!

If you’re looking for extra motivation to either upgrade your Xbox or even start out with a new one then check out this deal! The Xbox 360 from Microsoft is a console designed to give you the best High Definition gaming experience around. It has a library of thousands of titles which are connected together via Xbox Live Service which allows you to connect with your friends, form gaming parties and even track stats and achievements to compare with others. For a limited time you get a free $50 gift card with your purchase which can be used for anything you like, including Xbox peripherals and games to expand on your purchase.

Offer Ends 6/27

While we’re still waiting for word on the next installment of COD, and still fearing the release of the live action movie, word emerged today that the next DLC for Black Ops, called “Escalation”, will arrive in 3 weeks time; May 3rd to be more exact.  Included will be five new maps (Hotel, Convoy, Zoo, Stockpile, and a yet to be named Zombies map) for what will presumably be a cost of $15 – that’s what previous COD DLCs have cost.  Expect the PS3 and the PC to receive the new content a week or two later.

5 all-new maps; featuring 4 Multiplayer maps and an epic Zombies experience with all-new playable characters. In Multiplayer, battle it out in Hotel, on the roof of a Cuban luxury hotel and casino against the vivid backdrop of old Havana; Convoy delivers intense, close-quarters combat at the scene of an ambushed US military convoy; Zoo takes you on a wild ride in an abandoned Soviet Russian Zoo, with danger at every turn; Stockpile pits players in a remote Russian farm town housing secret WMD facilities.
For Zombies fans, “Escalation” features a unique Zombies experience.

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Well I sure hope this invention gets used for good. No need for remote controlled purse-snatching superdogs roaming the streets out there, and no need for poorly trained dog operators mistaking left for right because of lack of coffee, and leading dogs to take a misguided step off the nearest ravine.

This doggie backpack was though up and patched together at Auburn University, and it lets humans control dogs from literally miles away, using GPS coordonates. Kind of like a computer game without the jump button, since this only comes with vibrating side panels for telling your very well trained canine companion to go left or right.

Now I’m thinking this has the potential to either improve dog-human relationships a whole lot, or throw them down the nearest drain. It depends on how dogs feel about becoming Xbox replacements.

From the point of view of advantages, dogs get to move a lot faster if they don’t have to wait for a human, would track things faster and get over obstacles with more ease, and the three-four mile limit of the device means the human controller could even follow at a distance from a vehicle.

Add headphones to give the dog commands, a camera so you can see what he sees, and the system is complete. And maybe dogs can use the vibrator pads for massage when off duty.

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That may be exactly what happens, if Razer’s own website is any indication of the famed product’s release. I’ve loudly been waiting for it since last year, and am sad to not have it in my hands that much later. Perhaps my hope for owning one will be vindicated soon enough.

Razer’s online store lists only the standard edition of the Onza as expected to release on February 28th. A Razer spokesperson couldn’t comment on a strict release date, but they do estimate a release around the end of February. Which, of course, is great news all around. Can’t wait!

4 out of 5 stars

A game’s weaknesses are rarely also strengths, but perhaps we’ve all been gauging something wrong with Assassin’s Creed. The series has thus far been based on dumb AI and seemingly basic gameplay problems…and yet we keep playing and we keep enjoying. Ubisoft has certainly stumbled onto something great, especially if they contend with Call of Duty and still make exceptional sales.

Their latest, Brotherhood, follows Assassin’s Creed 2’s story and protagonist Ezio Auditorre in Italy during the renaissance while alter-ego/actual protagonist Desmond Miles slides even further down the rabbit hole. In the past, Ezio’s decision to not kill the pope comes back to bite him a mere day after retrieving his fateful prize, a piece of Eden, waking up to the sound of canon fire and a completely redecorated and holey home. In one fell swoop, his uncle ‘it’sa me, Mario’ and rag-tag cadre of assassin’s is dead or scattered.

Too conveniently, Ezio – and players – begin with nothing. As the game progresses, players update their armaments through purchasing better weapons and armor, unlocked at certain segments of the main story. Both have meager selections, yet as players continue on their journey, it becomes clear that less is more in this case. Hunting for money to buy the latest chest plate or knife was a chore in the prior game. This time, there are other, less important things to spend money on.

In fact, spending money is a huge part of Brotherhood, though it’s almost entirely unnecessary. Taking place solely in the magnificent city of Rome (and thankfully nowhere else) the Borgia army is in charge and running everything, including keeping certain areas on high alert to strangers and keeping merchants selling goods closed. The first real mission of the game teaches players to rid of Borgia influence by assassinating the captain of their ranks and burning their tower, which combines the scaling of tall buildings to map the ground below and unlock the region for safe passage. Later on, clearing these towers and captains also opens up another new element of the game, assassin allies.

The reason it’s ‘Brotherhood’ and not ‘Assassin’s Creed II 2: You Ain’t Seen Nothin’ Yet’ is twofold: the new multiplayer aspect (read below) and the side quest to train and send assassin’s to do thy bidding. Training and sending them to do missions is one in the same sadly, but the essence is clear: destroy Borgia towers, find willing assassin applicants, send them on missions until they’re ready to be inducted into the clan, and then…well, then nothing. A never-ending stream of missions allows players to keep sending assassins on missions, to earn money and experience (a fully trained assassin cannot earn more experience), though with ten AI characters to train and subsequently send out into the world, it’s a time consuming affair, one that will take at least 80% of the game to complete. This is partly due to certain areas being cut off from players however.

Better than earning money and possibly finding valuable items is that these assassins can do your dirty work. Need to remain anonymous, but have too many guards to get around silently? Brotherhood still lacks the finesse of a Metal Gear Solid game with the ability to actually distract the AI, so why not instead send your assassins, or even trainees, to disembowel those guards for you? With just the press of a button, Ezio will whistle and within seconds assassins will fall from the sky or arrive on horseback and either kill their unsuspecting foes, or fight more aware soldiers to the bitter end. Whoever wins, players are victorious, though in my playthrough not a single assassin or trainee ever died. The odds are never too high, and it’s always possible to take chance out of the equation, which limits the fun of the whole ordeal.

Then again, there’s never any need to send them in. Do it all yourself if you so choose. There is almost always more than one route to any destination, especially when dealing with secondary missions. The primary plot is, well, bland and often frustrating because it could be better, but the real meat of Brotherhood is in the unnecessary. This is the kind of game you want to beat 100%, because everything else is exciting. Some aspects, like buying major landmarks around Rome, are a waste of time and money and sometimes contend with the plot as a whole.

Having one city and a few minor outskirts is certainly the way to go. Traveling between provinces in Assassin’s Creed 2 was frustrating, and constantly paying for passage anywhere was time consuming and, frankly, a joke. That’s been eliminated with a more consolidated area, faster load times, and a tunnel system which players can unlock at their leisure, so it remains free. Returning characters are no more charming than before, though new ones do add some flare to the often drama-less routine. Whereas emotions ran high for the hot-headed youth once, the older, calmer Ezio is less fun to see in action.

The multiplayer aspect of Brotherhood is minimal, but a surprisingly enjoyable experience. Players are given contracts at random on other players, but there’s no way to distinguish between a player and AI except for the radar. This means just as likely as it is to find your target and eliminate him, you could be taken by surprise and killed, or someone with the same contract could take the kill from right under your nose. This hectic free-for-all style is wholly frustrating and deliciously, cruelly enjoyable. My first game I won first place after being behind a significant amount, thanks to several last second flashy kills. The system is not perfect – once you find someone is tailing you, losing them is next to impossible, and in a few instances I was chased around a map more than once because I couldn’t keep out of their line of sight long enough to lose them. As players progress more options to kill and escape open up, but perhaps they should have been available from the start, with more experienced players having access to higher quantities of valuable items.

Like the previous two Assassin’s Creed titles, Brotherhood is an addicting, fast-paced and enjoyable game, one that’s clearly made itself more about the gameplay than the game. The plot takes a turn at the end that completely reshapes our expectations for the next full-grown sequel, though the value of this progression is minimal. Instead, I left the game just feeling content about the past 15 hours of single player, knowing it was a good time and that I can’t wait for the next one.

iPods are notorious for being great gaming devices. That’s mostly thanks to the yearly updates to the hardware and a long list of free and inexpensive games, which makes Apple laugh maniacally in a corner because they accidentally beat Sony and Nintendo in the portable gaming space. But the iPod ain’t perfect, and playing in stereo is one fault.

Haptic feedback, however, isn’t a problem I ever considered.

I always turn off vibration on the Xbox 360, and never upgraded my SIXAXIS controllers to the Dualshock 3. I don’t like rumble. It throws off my aim. That’s why the Mophie Pulse is a weird little doohickey. It shakes, jiggles, and wiggles like it’s got shingles. That’s not all, it also provides stereo sound and gives the iPod Touch an enclosement to keep safe in.

It does all this by plugging into both the 3.5mm jack and the 20-pin iPod connector, and registers when the screen is touched. When that happens, the Pulse whirs and buzzes, and makes your hands feel stirred. It’s not a strong vibration by any means, a fraction of what a home console controller provides. But it sounds good. The Pulse comes with it’s own battery and does not charge the iPod whatsoever. The final build will also have an option for just stereo sound, which sounds perfect for me.

Now to see if Apple has any plans to make such accessories pertinent by allowing developers to input vibration-setting commands, like when you’re shot in-game. Heh, fat chance. No price is set for the Pulse, and no release date has been confirmed.

I can’t wait for Tron: Legacy. It’s not because Bruce Boxleitner is in it (well, not entirely). It’s because Tron was an amazing film from Disney, and the new one looks badass. So I’ll admit, I’ve fallen for fandom on this one…but PDP’s Tron controllers are damn sweet! Click to see more pictures and my first impressions.

PDP was kind enough to send one for the Playstation 3 and one for the Wii, which you can check out in the pictures below. The Xbox 360 model is likewise similar to the PS3 version, meaning it’s wired, which is a shame but so worth it for the ridiculously cool lighting these puppies have.

These controllers are special, and you should know it. They come in a collectors box, which is actually kind of crappy except for the rad color scheme and included Seal. In the picture above, the PS3 controller (which is plugged into a PS3, which I had to move to my makeshift photo booth because the controller wouldn’t light up on a wall outlet for whatever reason…) sits beside the Wii Collector’s Edition box, which was unopened.

A better look at the PS3 controller

Taking a close look at the PS3 controller, besides noting the awesomeness of the blue lights, take a look at the face buttons. The square, triangle and X buttons are all slightly different. They’re all broken ever so slightly, oh so similar to the Tron fashion. And the design of the PS button is just like that of the light discs. Sweeet.

PDP’s Tron Controller beside a standard Dualshock 3

Close up of the Wii Controller

The Wii controller looks pretty badass in it’s own right. It’s rubberized and feels very different from the typical Wii remote. Note, this is only the Wiimote, not a Wiimote plus. It’s hard to tell in this picture, but the A, 1 and 2 buttons are also broken in the Tron font as well.

Ahh, beautiful.

The Wiimote, beside the much sleeker and cooler Tron controller

Because it’s wireless, the Tron Wiimote undoubtedly has worse battery life. We’ll test later on to see how much worse, but PDP included a little button (below) for gamers who are out of spare batteries and need to reserve power.

And that’s the Wii and PS3 Tron Collector’s Edition controllers from PDP. Should make for some excellent holiday gifts! They release on November 22nd, and are all $50.

The latest Xbox Live update is here and it includes a variety of features that will have even the most curmudgeon of Live users clapping with happy happy joy joy.  According to Major Nelson the update is being randomly distributed across the globe, and its distribution will be completed over the next few hours.  As always, when you turn on your Xbox and sign in you’ll be prompted to update the system.  If you don’t receive this notification, be patient, because it will eventually arrive.

Don’t forget that Kinect arrives in a few days time.

It includes the following:

• Access to EPSN.  You’ll be able to tap into 3500 live sporting events a year, which includes college basketball, MLB, NBA and international soccer games.
• Zune Music with Zune pass for unlimited music for a low monthly fee.
• Netflix search. Nintendo and Sony received the update last week and now Xbox users will be able to search for movies and tv shows directly on the gaming console.
• Voice chat quality has been improved.
• Updated UI for what is said to be an improved experience.
• And a few other minor updates that include a new WiFi access selection, family programming tweaking and the ability to sign-out other controllers

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Come November 1st, 2010 Microsoft will increase the yearly price of their Xbox Live Gold membership by $10, from $49.99 to $59.99.  While the 3-month membership will see a $5 increase to $24.99.  The 1-month membership will continue to be $10.  This pricing only affects Xbox Live Members in Canada, Mexico, United Kingdom or the United States.

The price increase is a reflection of the additional services that Microsoft has added over the years.  This would include Facebook support, Netflix and other services.

Major Nelson made this announcement this morning and stated that you can order your memberships now and lock in the original price.  If you’re smart, you’ll track down an online retailer who sells the membership for $30 to $40 and by a few years worth.  We don’t think they ever expire.

Right now Amazon has the 12-month Xbox Gold membership for $40.

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Dell Home has it for $199.99 – $30 INSTANT SAVINGS + $0 SHIPPING = $169.99!

Last month, Microsoft brought some long-awaited USB storage support to the Xbox 360 via a system update. At the time, SanDisk announced a licensed version of their ever popular USB thumb drives to coincide with the update. Well it’s been over a month later, but the Xbox 360 USB Flash Drive is finally here. Its main use is as means of easily transferring game saves, gamertags, and Xbox Live Arcade game from console to console, and SanDisk says its “pre-configured for seamless plug and play action.” To sweeten the deal, a one month subscription to Xbox Live Gold is also included. Now if my console didn’t RROD so much…

The Xbox Live USB Flash Drive is available now in 8GB and 16GB sizes for $34.99 and $69.99, respectively.

SanDisk Ships Licensed Xbox 360 USB Flash Drive

Pre-configured USB Drive Delivers Best Experience On Xbox 360 Console

MILPITAS, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–SanDisk Corporation (NASDAQ: SNDK), the global leader in flash memory cards, today announced that it is shipping the Xbox 360® USB Flash Drive by SanDisk for the Microsoft Xbox 360 gaming and entertainment console. The new drive makes it easier than ever for gamers to take their gamertags, saved game progress, map packs, Arcade game downloads and bonus content with them for fast and convenient access on another Xbox 360 console†.

“The Xbox 360 USB Flash Drive by SanDisk provides a great solution for gamers who need portable storage for their Xbox 360 content. It’s plug and play simple.”

The Xbox 360 USB Flash Drive by SanDisk delivers the best experience on the Xbox 360 console. Pre-configured for seamless plug and play action, the drive eliminates the need to format storage or download an initial software update for an Xbox 360 console. For gamers looking to get in on the fun or for those with existing accounts who want to extend their play, a one-month Xbox LIVE Gold membership is included with purchase of the drive††.

“Xbox LIVE contains a world of content for gamers to explore and download, including full-length games, movies and music,” said Shuki Nir, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Retail, SanDisk. “The Xbox 360 USB Flash Drive by SanDisk is specifically engineered to deliver a great user experience and maximum compatibility with the console, offering gamers greater freedom and flexibility in how they store, manage and enjoy their favorite files.”

“SanDisk has a proven track record of creating high-quality storage solutions,” said Ilan Spillinger, Vice President, Xbox Hardware and Technology, Microsoft. “The Xbox 360 USB Flash Drive by SanDisk provides a great solution for gamers who need portable storage for their Xbox 360 content. It’s plug and play simple.”

Pricing and Availability

The Xbox 360 USB Flash Drive by SanDisk is available now on SanDisk.com and at major retailers. The drive is available in 8 gigabyte (GB)1 and 16GB capacities, carrying suggested retail prices of $34.99 and $69.99, respectively.