One of UK's biggest supermarket chains ASDA could be on the verge of buying the troubled retailer HMV.

According to The Sun's unnamed source in the City a deal is on the cards but must be made within the next two weeks.

ASDA, of course already sells entertainment products within its stores, but owning HMV would give it tremendous presence in the entertainment sector. Recently ASDA launched Disney concessions within three of its supermarkets. if this deal went through, could we see a similar thing happening with HTMV concessions springing up in stores? It's just rumour and speculation at the moment.

A lot has happened to HMV since the beginning of the year, with Canadian restructuring firm Hilco stepping in to save the company from bankruptcy back in January by acquiring its debt and store closures being announced in February.

Former GAME boss Ian Sheperd remains sceptical over the story. He thinks it might be misinformation to drum up interest in the company:

Today's big retail story: "administrator tries to create illusion of bidding competition shortly before rent deadline"
— Ian Shepherd (@IanAShepherd) March 12, 2013

Asda· Games· gaming· General· HMV· News· Supermarket· The Sun

ASDA Interested in Buying HMV?

One of UK's biggest supermarket chains ASDA could be on the verge of buying the troubled retailer HMV.

According to The Sun's unnamed source in the City a deal is on the cards but must be made within the next two weeks.

ASDA, of course already sells entertainment products within its stores, but owning HMV would give it tremendous presence in the entertainment sector. Recently ASDA launched Disney concessions within three of its supermarkets. if this deal went through, could we see a similar thing happening with HTMV concessions springing up in stores? It's just rumour and speculation at the moment.

A lot has happened to HMV since the beginning of the year, with Canadian restructuring firm Hilco stepping in to save the company from bankruptcy back in January by acquiring its debt and store closures being announced in February.

Former GAME boss Ian Sheperd remains sceptical over the story. He thinks it might be misinformation to drum up interest in the company:

Today's big retail story: "administrator tries to create illusion of bidding competition shortly before rent deadline"
— Ian Shepherd (@IanAShepherd) March 12, 2013

Analysts suggest that PS4 and Xbox games will retail at $70, ten dollars more than current gen games, said Wedbush Securities Research Analyst Michael Pachter during a panel at SXSW.

The news was tweeted by Spike and GamesTrailers Host Geoff Keighley.

At #SXSW panel @michaelpachter says PS4 and next Xbox games will likely cost 70 dollars, 10 dollars more than current gen.
— Geoff Keighley (@geoffkeighley) March 9, 2013

This comes after Sony Clarified the price point of PS4 games when SCEA President and CEO Jack Tretton explained that Sony, "will offer games with prices ranging from $0.99 to the more traditional $60 range with the ability for players to sample games before they buy.

It's important to note that Tretton's quote never gives a hard number like a MSRP of $59.99, which leaves plenty of room for interpretation of what Sony's view of a "traditional $60 range" might actually be.

Analyst· Games· gaming· Next Generation Games costing more· Next-Gen Consoles· PS4· xbox· Xbox 720

SXSW: Analyst Says PS4 and Next Xbox Games Will Cost $70!

Analysts suggest that PS4 and Xbox games will retail at $70, ten dollars more than current gen games, said Wedbush Securities Research Analyst Michael Pachter during a panel at SXSW.

The news was tweeted by Spike and GamesTrailers Host Geoff Keighley.

At #SXSW panel @michaelpachter says PS4 and next Xbox games will likely cost 70 dollars, 10 dollars more than current gen.
— Geoff Keighley (@geoffkeighley) March 9, 2013

This comes after Sony Clarified the price point of PS4 games when SCEA President and CEO Jack Tretton explained that Sony, "will offer games with prices ranging from $0.99 to the more traditional $60 range with the ability for players to sample games before they buy.

It's important to note that Tretton's quote never gives a hard number like a MSRP of $59.99, which leaves plenty of room for interpretation of what Sony's view of a "traditional $60 range" might actually be.

All gamers are looking forward to most of the games that are due out this year, including the late, but amazing GTA 5, Bioshock infinite and more!

Here are the 30 big games of 2013 from IGN:



Games Listed in the video: 

1. Aliens: Colonial Marines
2. Army of Two: The Devil's Cartel
3. Beyond: Two Souls
4. BioShock Infinite
5. Castlevania 2: Lords of Shadow
6. Crysis 3
7. Dark Souls II
8. Dead Island: Riptide
9. Dead Space 3
10. DmC: Devil May Cry
11. Gears of War: Judgement
12. God of War: Ascension
13. Grand Theft Auto V
14. Injustice: Gods Among Us
15. Lost Planet 3
16. Metal Gear Solid: Ground Zeroes
17. Metal Gear Solid: The Phantom Pain
18. Star Wars: 1313
19. Remember Me
20. SimCity 
21. Sly Cooper: Thieves in Time
22. South Park: The Stick of Truth
23. Splinter Cell: Blacklist
24. StarCraft II: Heart of the Swarm
25. Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance
26. The Elder Scrolls Online
27. The Last of Us
28. Tomb Raider
29. Watch Dogs
30. Rayman Legends

30 top games this year· Games· gaming· Video

TOP 30 MOST ANTICIPATED GAMES OF 2013

All gamers are looking forward to most of the games that are due out this year, including the late, but amazing GTA 5, Bioshock infinite and more!

Here are the 30 big games of 2013 from IGN:



Games Listed in the video: 

1. Aliens: Colonial Marines
2. Army of Two: The Devil's Cartel
3. Beyond: Two Souls
4. BioShock Infinite
5. Castlevania 2: Lords of Shadow
6. Crysis 3
7. Dark Souls II
8. Dead Island: Riptide
9. Dead Space 3
10. DmC: Devil May Cry
11. Gears of War: Judgement
12. God of War: Ascension
13. Grand Theft Auto V
14. Injustice: Gods Among Us
15. Lost Planet 3
16. Metal Gear Solid: Ground Zeroes
17. Metal Gear Solid: The Phantom Pain
18. Star Wars: 1313
19. Remember Me
20. SimCity 
21. Sly Cooper: Thieves in Time
22. South Park: The Stick of Truth
23. Splinter Cell: Blacklist
24. StarCraft II: Heart of the Swarm
25. Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance
26. The Elder Scrolls Online
27. The Last of Us
28. Tomb Raider
29. Watch Dogs
30. Rayman Legends

This is probably one of the loveliest stories you have read all week, a dad has hacked Donkey Kong so his three-year-old daughter can play as Pauline and save Mario.

Mike Mika is a video game maker by trade, and upon noticing his daughter was disappointed by the default option, simply 'adjusted' the classic game so Pauline was now the playable character - complete witha P instead of an M at the top of the screen.

"My three year old daughter and I play a lot of old games together," Mika wrote on his YouTube channel. "Her favorite is Donkey Kong. Two days ago, she asked me if she could play as the girl and save Mario. She's played as Peach in Super Mario Bros. 2 and naturally just assumed she could do the same in Donkey Kong. I told her we couldn't in that particular Mario game, she seemed really bummed out by that. So what else am I supposed to do? Now I'm up at midnight hacking the ROM, replacing Mario with Pauline."

Check out the video of Mika's Hack below. Story via Reddit

A· As· Can· Classic· Dad· Daughter· Donkey Kong· Games· gaming· Girl· Hacks· Play· So· Stories

Dad Hacks Donkey Kong So Daughter Can Play As A Girl!

This is probably one of the loveliest stories you have read all week, a dad has hacked Donkey Kong so his three-year-old daughter can play as Pauline and save Mario.

Mike Mika is a video game maker by trade, and upon noticing his daughter was disappointed by the default option, simply 'adjusted' the classic game so Pauline was now the playable character - complete witha P instead of an M at the top of the screen.

"My three year old daughter and I play a lot of old games together," Mika wrote on his YouTube channel. "Her favorite is Donkey Kong. Two days ago, she asked me if she could play as the girl and save Mario. She's played as Peach in Super Mario Bros. 2 and naturally just assumed she could do the same in Donkey Kong. I told her we couldn't in that particular Mario game, she seemed really bummed out by that. So what else am I supposed to do? Now I'm up at midnight hacking the ROM, replacing Mario with Pauline."

Check out the video of Mika's Hack below. Story via Reddit

Following up from the successful launch of Temple Run 2 on iOS - that reached over 20 million downloads in the first four days, is now available for Android. As with the iOS version, it's a free download, and you can pick it up from the Google Play Store now! 

Imangi's Keith Shepherd had said that the game would make its way to the Google Play Store this week, and has arrived on Android withut issues.

Android· Games· gaming· Temple Run· Temple Run 2

Temple Run 2: Now Available for Android

Following up from the successful launch of Temple Run 2 on iOS - that reached over 20 million downloads in the first four days, is now available for Android. As with the iOS version, it's a free download, and you can pick it up from the Google Play Store now! 

Imangi's Keith Shepherd had said that the game would make its way to the Google Play Store this week, and has arrived on Android withut issues.

Halo 2 PC Servers are shutting down next month with 343 Induestries announcing that Halo 2 PC multiplayer will shut down on February 15th. In a post on Halo Waypoint, 343 noted that "We've been monitoring the population for months, and it's been peaking consistently at approximately 20 players or less. Those that own this game can continue to enjoy the Multiplayer experience but only over LAN networks.

"We love you, Halo 2 PC, and you will live forever in our hearts. "343 concluded.

Bungie· Games· gaming· halo· Halo 2· Halo Waypoint· PC

So Long, Halo 2

Halo 2 PC Servers are shutting down next month with 343 Induestries announcing that Halo 2 PC multiplayer will shut down on February 15th. In a post on Halo Waypoint, 343 noted that "We've been monitoring the population for months, and it's been peaking consistently at approximately 20 players or less. Those that own this game can continue to enjoy the Multiplayer experience but only over LAN networks.

"We love you, Halo 2 PC, and you will live forever in our hearts. "343 concluded.

The Assassins Creed franchise has always been something that has attracted many a gamer, I for one have always been a great fan of the games that Ubisoft have created through the Creed series. Everything about this game is sheer brilliance there are many new features that have been introduced into this game. Assassins Creed 3 starts off with you carrying on as playing as Desmond Miles who has the extraordinary ability of traveling back through time through a machine called the Animus which was built by the company Abstergo. The Animus allows him to travel back in time to his assassin ancestors to battle against the Templar's who secretly work for Abstergo who wish to find The Apple of Eden and usher in a new world that they wish to shape themselves. The Assassin you play isn't Ezio Auditore like you have played for the last three games instead you play as Connor a native american who has his own personal reasons for dealing with the Templar's which of course you find out in the game. The game doesn't start out with you playing as Connor first though you play instead as Haytham Kenway where his involvement in the game comes more apparent throughout the game.

Ubisoft have kept the idea of having your own group of assassins that you can recruit from back when they first came up with the idea back in Assassins Creed Revelations where you had your brotherhood. With the assassins in this there are a restriction of only six assassins however the assassins are more in depth of how you can recruit them as you have to liberate districts of both New York and Boston. Something new that they have included is Connor acquires a homestead where he can recruit people such as Lance a woodsman, Myrium a hunter and many more. With their help Connor is able to craft many different items which, he can make convoys out of which, a great way of generating money for him to buy weapons, outfits, maps and firearms as well as upgrades for his ship the Aquila.

Which brings me onto to something else that Ubisoft have included within this game the fact that Connor has his own ship has now meant that naval missions are available the upgrades ranging from different types of cannon ammo, better health for the ship as well as a ram for smashing into other ships and a rudder for improved handling of the ship.

There are many side missions in Assassins Creed 3 which include hunting missions in which you track certain animals ranging from small hares to the rather dangerous bears there are many ways you can hunt whether it be quickly finishing animals off with a bow, assassinating them stealthy by drawing them in with bait, poisoning them and many other ways. There is also another side mission called Boston Brawlers in which you have to find certain people within a brawling tournament and beat them each becoming harder then the other and having different ways of being defeated and stopping you from hurting them.










Now moving away from the single player campaign and onto the multiplayer there are seven maps to play these include Boston Harbor, Virginia Plantation, Northwest Passage, Boston North End, New York Brewery, The Animus Core and Fort Wolcott. All of these maps have a night time variation as well as weather ones to. And as always through each Assassins Creed comes with a new bunch of multiplayer assassins to play as, in this game there is The Bear, The Carpenter, The Commander, The Coyote Man, The Governor, The Hessian, The Highlander, The Huntsman, The Independent, The Lady Maverick, The Mountebank, The Night Stalker, The Pioneer, The Preacher, The Red Coat, The Robber, The Sharpshooter, The Silent Shadow and The Strong Man. All of these are great to play as with different weapons and executions when killing targets,

Now whilst being a huge fan of Assassins Creed overall through all the games when it comes to giving this game a rating I would probably say 9/10 for sheer fun, assassinations and much more defiantly a game you want for Christmas or your birthday.

Assassins creed· Assassins Creed 3· Assassins creed series· Game reviews· gaming· Ubisoft

Assassins Creed 3 Review

The Assassins Creed franchise has always been something that has attracted many a gamer, I for one have always been a great fan of the games that Ubisoft have created through the Creed series. Everything about this game is sheer brilliance there are many new features that have been introduced into this game. Assassins Creed 3 starts off with you carrying on as playing as Desmond Miles who has the extraordinary ability of traveling back through time through a machine called the Animus which was built by the company Abstergo. The Animus allows him to travel back in time to his assassin ancestors to battle against the Templar's who secretly work for Abstergo who wish to find The Apple of Eden and usher in a new world that they wish to shape themselves. The Assassin you play isn't Ezio Auditore like you have played for the last three games instead you play as Connor a native american who has his own personal reasons for dealing with the Templar's which of course you find out in the game. The game doesn't start out with you playing as Connor first though you play instead as Haytham Kenway where his involvement in the game comes more apparent throughout the game.

Ubisoft have kept the idea of having your own group of assassins that you can recruit from back when they first came up with the idea back in Assassins Creed Revelations where you had your brotherhood. With the assassins in this there are a restriction of only six assassins however the assassins are more in depth of how you can recruit them as you have to liberate districts of both New York and Boston. Something new that they have included is Connor acquires a homestead where he can recruit people such as Lance a woodsman, Myrium a hunter and many more. With their help Connor is able to craft many different items which, he can make convoys out of which, a great way of generating money for him to buy weapons, outfits, maps and firearms as well as upgrades for his ship the Aquila.

Which brings me onto to something else that Ubisoft have included within this game the fact that Connor has his own ship has now meant that naval missions are available the upgrades ranging from different types of cannon ammo, better health for the ship as well as a ram for smashing into other ships and a rudder for improved handling of the ship.

There are many side missions in Assassins Creed 3 which include hunting missions in which you track certain animals ranging from small hares to the rather dangerous bears there are many ways you can hunt whether it be quickly finishing animals off with a bow, assassinating them stealthy by drawing them in with bait, poisoning them and many other ways. There is also another side mission called Boston Brawlers in which you have to find certain people within a brawling tournament and beat them each becoming harder then the other and having different ways of being defeated and stopping you from hurting them.










Now moving away from the single player campaign and onto the multiplayer there are seven maps to play these include Boston Harbor, Virginia Plantation, Northwest Passage, Boston North End, New York Brewery, The Animus Core and Fort Wolcott. All of these maps have a night time variation as well as weather ones to. And as always through each Assassins Creed comes with a new bunch of multiplayer assassins to play as, in this game there is The Bear, The Carpenter, The Commander, The Coyote Man, The Governor, The Hessian, The Highlander, The Huntsman, The Independent, The Lady Maverick, The Mountebank, The Night Stalker, The Pioneer, The Preacher, The Red Coat, The Robber, The Sharpshooter, The Silent Shadow and The Strong Man. All of these are great to play as with different weapons and executions when killing targets,

Now whilst being a huge fan of Assassins Creed overall through all the games when it comes to giving this game a rating I would probably say 9/10 for sheer fun, assassinations and much more defiantly a game you want for Christmas or your birthday.

Call Of Duty Black Ops 2 TranZit

TranZit is the new zombie map in Black Ops 2, in TranZit it has a new exploration mode for Call of Duty: Black Ops II Zombies. It is completely different from the other maps we all have played in Black Ops 1 and also Call Of Duty 5. The first map is "Green Run" and different locations are accessible either by the bus or foot or even the teleports scattered around the map. 

TranZit uses rounds, and functions like the old zombies game, aside from the size and some of the new features. A new feature in the game includes, buildables, this allows the player to build items in game such as; Items to attach to the bus to get an advantage over the zombies such as a ladder to access the roof of the bus or even a plow to attach to the front and mawl down zombies in your path. Also you have to build the pack a punch machine that is located in the bank. Getting into the bank can be tricky if you don't know how to access it.

Also a new feature to TranZit is being able to build special equipment in which can help you in different ways, the pieces of equipment you can build are: 

• A generator- that allows you to open special doors without having to use your points.
• A shield- That protects your back and also can be used to bash zombies out of the way.
• Jet gun- this is a extremely powerful weapon that is very useful in tricky situations
• Sentry Gun- Used to kill zombies 
• Electricity Trap- Used to kill zombies hardcore style 

What We Think Of The New Map

We think that the new map is very different from what we've experienced before, someone people will love it and some will completely hate it. I love it, I love the new features to the game , it keeps it fresh and makes me wanting more zombie action. Im looking forward to seeing what new ideas the DLC's this year will bring. 

Overall I would give TranZit 8/10

Black ops· Black ops 2· Black ops 2 Zombies· Call of Duty· gaming· PC· PlayStation 3· PS3· Tranzit· Treyarch· xbox· Xbox 360· Zombies

Black Ops 2 - TranZit

Call Of Duty Black Ops 2 TranZit

TranZit is the new zombie map in Black Ops 2, in TranZit it has a new exploration mode for Call of Duty: Black Ops II Zombies. It is completely different from the other maps we all have played in Black Ops 1 and also Call Of Duty 5. The first map is "Green Run" and different locations are accessible either by the bus or foot or even the teleports scattered around the map. 

TranZit uses rounds, and functions like the old zombies game, aside from the size and some of the new features. A new feature in the game includes, buildables, this allows the player to build items in game such as; Items to attach to the bus to get an advantage over the zombies such as a ladder to access the roof of the bus or even a plow to attach to the front and mawl down zombies in your path. Also you have to build the pack a punch machine that is located in the bank. Getting into the bank can be tricky if you don't know how to access it.

Also a new feature to TranZit is being able to build special equipment in which can help you in different ways, the pieces of equipment you can build are: 

• A generator- that allows you to open special doors without having to use your points.
• A shield- That protects your back and also can be used to bash zombies out of the way.
• Jet gun- this is a extremely powerful weapon that is very useful in tricky situations
• Sentry Gun- Used to kill zombies 
• Electricity Trap- Used to kill zombies hardcore style 

What We Think Of The New Map

We think that the new map is very different from what we've experienced before, someone people will love it and some will completely hate it. I love it, I love the new features to the game , it keeps it fresh and makes me wanting more zombie action. Im looking forward to seeing what new ideas the DLC's this year will bring. 

Overall I would give TranZit 8/10

With Skyrim being the one of the biggest role playing games ever to be made, it has to live up to expectation, and now its got a whole lot better!

With the Original Skyrim, you were able to purchase houses in the major towns like Whiterun, where you can call it your own and store weapons, books, materials etc. The only problem with these is that you cant edit them in regards to the furniture inside them, so there's not much personality within them. But now, think again because when you install Hearthfire onto Skyrim, your sucked into the world of personal living, building your house from the ground up to create a mini fortress to call your own with armouries, echanctment towers, libraries, kitchens and so much more!

A New Life

The new life starts when a courier contacts you when your in one of the main towns, giving you a message to speak to the Jarls Steward of Dawnstar, where you will be then given the chance to purchase the land, and this can can variate depending on what Jarl you approach, but in my case, my chosen land was Lakeside Manor, which is located south west of Riverwood, in a very secluded part of the forest with a small dirt path leading to it, just off the main path leading from Riverwood on a slight hill, perfect for looking out of your tower in the evening, looking at the river with the comfort and security of being in the home you built from the ground up. After you have spoke to the Jarl and purchased the land of your choice, you can then travel to it. When you arrive, you'll notice a work area next to the cliff face on the right, this is where the plans become reality. You get enough supplies to build the smallest house you can, however its not that easy. You have to make hinges, door locks, fixing etc for each door, and each room you want to build in, plus once the building is expanded, you'll notice workbenches in each room where you can build the items you want into that room. So you can kit your pad out full of luxury, and if your the adventurer/hunter type, you can even create animal heads on the wall and hang up your weapons of pride and joy!

Adoption

With a house becomes responsibility, and when I mean responsibility I mean children, yes you did hear right, children. Now on Skyrim you can adopt children, and they will always be at home, where you take full responsibility for them, protecting them against wolfs if it comes down to it. So its becoming a magical, medievel version of sims, and with this game constantly developing, and the new Dawnstar expansion pack featuring vampire lords, the possibilities with this game are truly endless!

Flying Dragons

Ive also heard another rumour aswell from a fellow Skyrim fanatic. As the players of Skyrim may know, once you have completed the game, you get a dragon for yourself which you can call using the Odaviing shout, so he can help you if your struggling against other dragons or your in a huge war. This is the dragon which you captured earlier on within the game to travel to Sovungarde, and kill Alduin, the destruction dragon god. well ive heard that there may be a new DLC in which you can actually fly the dragon! So watch this space and we will keep you updated on any progression!

Hearthfire Official Trailer

Games· gaming· Hearthfire· Hearthfire Expansion· Review· skyrim· Skyrim DLC· Skyrim Hearthfire· The Elder Scrolls v

Skyrim: Hearthfire DLC (Review)

With Skyrim being the one of the biggest role playing games ever to be made, it has to live up to expectation, and now its got a whole lot better!

With the Original Skyrim, you were able to purchase houses in the major towns like Whiterun, where you can call it your own and store weapons, books, materials etc. The only problem with these is that you cant edit them in regards to the furniture inside them, so there's not much personality within them. But now, think again because when you install Hearthfire onto Skyrim, your sucked into the world of personal living, building your house from the ground up to create a mini fortress to call your own with armouries, echanctment towers, libraries, kitchens and so much more!

A New Life

The new life starts when a courier contacts you when your in one of the main towns, giving you a message to speak to the Jarls Steward of Dawnstar, where you will be then given the chance to purchase the land, and this can can variate depending on what Jarl you approach, but in my case, my chosen land was Lakeside Manor, which is located south west of Riverwood, in a very secluded part of the forest with a small dirt path leading to it, just off the main path leading from Riverwood on a slight hill, perfect for looking out of your tower in the evening, looking at the river with the comfort and security of being in the home you built from the ground up. After you have spoke to the Jarl and purchased the land of your choice, you can then travel to it. When you arrive, you'll notice a work area next to the cliff face on the right, this is where the plans become reality. You get enough supplies to build the smallest house you can, however its not that easy. You have to make hinges, door locks, fixing etc for each door, and each room you want to build in, plus once the building is expanded, you'll notice workbenches in each room where you can build the items you want into that room. So you can kit your pad out full of luxury, and if your the adventurer/hunter type, you can even create animal heads on the wall and hang up your weapons of pride and joy!

Adoption

With a house becomes responsibility, and when I mean responsibility I mean children, yes you did hear right, children. Now on Skyrim you can adopt children, and they will always be at home, where you take full responsibility for them, protecting them against wolfs if it comes down to it. So its becoming a magical, medievel version of sims, and with this game constantly developing, and the new Dawnstar expansion pack featuring vampire lords, the possibilities with this game are truly endless!

Flying Dragons

Ive also heard another rumour aswell from a fellow Skyrim fanatic. As the players of Skyrim may know, once you have completed the game, you get a dragon for yourself which you can call using the Odaviing shout, so he can help you if your struggling against other dragons or your in a huge war. This is the dragon which you captured earlier on within the game to travel to Sovungarde, and kill Alduin, the destruction dragon god. well ive heard that there may be a new DLC in which you can actually fly the dragon! So watch this space and we will keep you updated on any progression!

Hearthfire Official Trailer

The highly anticipated expansion pack is finally here for PC and Mac. Many Sims lovers have always wanted seasons to come back and make an entrance to the Sims 3.

The differences

There are two different versions of The Sims 3 Seasons, the limited addition one and the normal addition. In the limited addition, you get a brand new Ice Lounge where you can relax in style with your Sim's family or friends. The other version is a little bit more cheaper but does not come with the new stylish Ice Lounge. 

The Sims Ice lounge is a nice place to have in the game. Your Sims can hang out with their friends or family in the beautiful place, which is made out of ice, but don't forget to wear your outside clothes, otherwise your sim could freeze. All-in-all, this is a different feature to have, and is worth it if you are a hardcore sims fan.

Weather

Weather is also included in the game, including, Rain, thunderstorms, fog, hail, snow and the regular sun. The weather in the game is very awesome, it just makes everything in the sims just look a little bit more realistic, and not having the on going sun and night affect. You can even check the weather from the TV or on the computer to see when it will be raining, snowing and more. The best thing is, is that it all syncs with each other. For example, if you are coming to the end of summer, then you will notice on the temperature monitor that the temperature will start to lower because you are coming into contact with Autumn. 

Seasons

There are four seasons in the new expansion pack (Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter). With each new season, there is a different activity going on down at the park where your sims can visit and take part in incredible and fun activities. The great feature about this game is that once you start entering, for example Winter; it will take about a  day for the snow to fall, then lay and get deep enough on the ground to play some games. . This makes the game more realistic and awesome. 

In the summer, (or any month) you can now start swimming in the ocean. Sims can now float on floatation toys and just relax there and take a break from society   

Halloween is also included in the game! Once its halloween, you can go down to the park and pick out some Pumpkins to carve once you get home. You can choose the carving to be 'Normal', 'Scary', 'Ghost', or 'Happy', and then drag it outside or wherever you want to and light it up. You can also hang Christmas lights on top of your Sims house by clicking your sim's front door. 

New clothes

There are a few more clothes in the Seasons expansion pack, and most of them are for the new feature called 'Outdoor'. These are the clothes that your Sims put on when entering the great outdoors so that they are not too chilly or too hot.

Overall, I personally think that this game is definitely worth purchasing. It just makes the game so much more realistic, adventurous and comes with some great activities that your sims can do. 

Rating: 97/100

Trailer:

Autumn· Games· gaming· Review· Reviews· Seasons· Sims· Sims 3· Sims 3 Seasons· Spring· Summer· The Sims 3· The Sims 3 Seasons· Winter

The Sims 3 Seasons Review

The highly anticipated expansion pack is finally here for PC and Mac. Many Sims lovers have always wanted seasons to come back and make an entrance to the Sims 3.

The differences

There are two different versions of The Sims 3 Seasons, the limited addition one and the normal addition. In the limited addition, you get a brand new Ice Lounge where you can relax in style with your Sim's family or friends. The other version is a little bit more cheaper but does not come with the new stylish Ice Lounge. 

The Sims Ice lounge is a nice place to have in the game. Your Sims can hang out with their friends or family in the beautiful place, which is made out of ice, but don't forget to wear your outside clothes, otherwise your sim could freeze. All-in-all, this is a different feature to have, and is worth it if you are a hardcore sims fan.

Weather

Weather is also included in the game, including, Rain, thunderstorms, fog, hail, snow and the regular sun. The weather in the game is very awesome, it just makes everything in the sims just look a little bit more realistic, and not having the on going sun and night affect. You can even check the weather from the TV or on the computer to see when it will be raining, snowing and more. The best thing is, is that it all syncs with each other. For example, if you are coming to the end of summer, then you will notice on the temperature monitor that the temperature will start to lower because you are coming into contact with Autumn. 

Seasons

There are four seasons in the new expansion pack (Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter). With each new season, there is a different activity going on down at the park where your sims can visit and take part in incredible and fun activities. The great feature about this game is that once you start entering, for example Winter; it will take about a  day for the snow to fall, then lay and get deep enough on the ground to play some games. . This makes the game more realistic and awesome. 

In the summer, (or any month) you can now start swimming in the ocean. Sims can now float on floatation toys and just relax there and take a break from society   

Halloween is also included in the game! Once its halloween, you can go down to the park and pick out some Pumpkins to carve once you get home. You can choose the carving to be 'Normal', 'Scary', 'Ghost', or 'Happy', and then drag it outside or wherever you want to and light it up. You can also hang Christmas lights on top of your Sims house by clicking your sim's front door. 

New clothes

There are a few more clothes in the Seasons expansion pack, and most of them are for the new feature called 'Outdoor'. These are the clothes that your Sims put on when entering the great outdoors so that they are not too chilly or too hot.

Overall, I personally think that this game is definitely worth purchasing. It just makes the game so much more realistic, adventurous and comes with some great activities that your sims can do. 

Rating: 97/100

Trailer:

GTA 5's second trailer from Rockstar has just launched moments ago showing the world the game's three new playable characters, it also shows us a few snippets from the new heist gameplay that's supposed to be the central mission mechanic.

Throughout the trailer, we are shown three new characters engaging the customary GTA action. Driving cars, fighting, drug dealing and the odd shootout.

We see the gang trying to steal cars on a highway right off the back of a truck. We seem them jumping from a train as it collides with another and we even see them stealing cars from a in-flight plane!

Rockstar said that players will be able to switch between each of the three characters during missions, ensuring players get the best view of action. What we can see of the heist missions shown in the trailer is that they'll also be highly cinematic affairs almost certainly ending with a bang. The jet fighter footage alone is enough to get GTA fans' trigger fingers itching.

Can Rockstar use the heist as a way of evolving the kind of missions we usually expect of a GTA, though? The second trailer leaves GTA fans more ambitious to try out the new type of mission structure.

Check out trailer #2 and let us know what you think:

gameplay· Games· gaming· GTA 5· heist· PC· PlayStation 3· Trailer 2· Xbox 360

GTA 5: Trailer 2 shows off the new heist gameplay action

GTA 5's second trailer from Rockstar has just launched moments ago showing the world the game's three new playable characters, it also shows us a few snippets from the new heist gameplay that's supposed to be the central mission mechanic.

Throughout the trailer, we are shown three new characters engaging the customary GTA action. Driving cars, fighting, drug dealing and the odd shootout.

We see the gang trying to steal cars on a highway right off the back of a truck. We seem them jumping from a train as it collides with another and we even see them stealing cars from a in-flight plane!

Rockstar said that players will be able to switch between each of the three characters during missions, ensuring players get the best view of action. What we can see of the heist missions shown in the trailer is that they'll also be highly cinematic affairs almost certainly ending with a bang. The jet fighter footage alone is enough to get GTA fans' trigger fingers itching.

Can Rockstar use the heist as a way of evolving the kind of missions we usually expect of a GTA, though? The second trailer leaves GTA fans more ambitious to try out the new type of mission structure.

Check out trailer #2 and let us know what you think:

Lets start off by saying that this is the result of a wonderful partnership between Rovio Entertainment and Lucasfilm. Although it's one of several licensed video games on smartphones and tablets (Disney's Where's My Perry?), it is by far the most important, but because this is one of the few examples where unique elements from a big-time franchise like Star Wars enhanced an already proven formula.

This game is pretty much the same Angry Birds IP with a Star Wars skin. The familaiar red bird, arguably the mascot from the entire Angry Birds series, does a fine Luke Skywalker impression, complete with blonde hair and Tatooine fatigues. Yellow bird, meanwhile, is bound to melt some hearts as the galaxy's most darling scoundrel, Han Solo, destined to fall in love with the pink bird, as you all know Princess Leia. Even C-3PO, R2-D2 and Obi-Wan Kenobi are present and accounted for, while the evil Empire falls under the grip of the Dark Lord of the Pigs, Darth Vader, and his loyal Pigtroooper Army. Yes, they take up residence in the Pig Star.

This game is more than just window-dressing. Propel Luke Skywalker via slingshot and tap the creen, then watch as the Jedi-to-be unleashes a spinning lightsaber slash the cuts through most objects in his path (which is just awesome to watch). Han Solo, on the other hand, fires three shots from his blaster that not only pierce through creates and glass, but also ricochet off metal surfaces.

So should you get this game? Well yeah! If you love Angry Birds and Star Wars, then you will love this game!

Angry Birds Star Wars· Games· gaming· iPad· iPhone· iPod Touch· Reviews· Rovio

Angry Birds Star Wars! Should You Get It? Yes! [Review]

Lets start off by saying that this is the result of a wonderful partnership between Rovio Entertainment and Lucasfilm. Although it's one of several licensed video games on smartphones and tablets (Disney's Where's My Perry?), it is by far the most important, but because this is one of the few examples where unique elements from a big-time franchise like Star Wars enhanced an already proven formula.

This game is pretty much the same Angry Birds IP with a Star Wars skin. The familaiar red bird, arguably the mascot from the entire Angry Birds series, does a fine Luke Skywalker impression, complete with blonde hair and Tatooine fatigues. Yellow bird, meanwhile, is bound to melt some hearts as the galaxy's most darling scoundrel, Han Solo, destined to fall in love with the pink bird, as you all know Princess Leia. Even C-3PO, R2-D2 and Obi-Wan Kenobi are present and accounted for, while the evil Empire falls under the grip of the Dark Lord of the Pigs, Darth Vader, and his loyal Pigtroooper Army. Yes, they take up residence in the Pig Star.

This game is more than just window-dressing. Propel Luke Skywalker via slingshot and tap the creen, then watch as the Jedi-to-be unleashes a spinning lightsaber slash the cuts through most objects in his path (which is just awesome to watch). Han Solo, on the other hand, fires three shots from his blaster that not only pierce through creates and glass, but also ricochet off metal surfaces.

So should you get this game? Well yeah! If you love Angry Birds and Star Wars, then you will love this game!

After weeks of hints and teasers, Rovio has finally released Angry Birds Star Wars. The game is exactly what you would expect, but with a Star Wars theme.

"In fact it's drenched with Star Wars stuff. Every level, bird, and most of the game's mechanics, both old or new, are covered in a thick layer of Star Wars.

Red bird, for example, resembles Luke and has a secondary lightsaber attack that shears through hard surfaces and pigs. The blue bird is now a rebel pilot, able to fire spread shots from its pistol. Levels are set in classic Star Wars backdrops and every time the game introduces a "new" bird, you'll see a classic Star Wars scene starring the birds."

Angry Birds Star Wars is available on iPhone ($0.99), iPad ($2.99), and on the Mac ($4.99)

Angry Birds· Angry Birds Star Wars· Games· gaming· iPad· iPhone· Mac· New Releases· Rovio

Angry Birds Star Wars is now available on iPhone, iPad and Mac

After weeks of hints and teasers, Rovio has finally released Angry Birds Star Wars. The game is exactly what you would expect, but with a Star Wars theme.

"In fact it's drenched with Star Wars stuff. Every level, bird, and most of the game's mechanics, both old or new, are covered in a thick layer of Star Wars.

Red bird, for example, resembles Luke and has a secondary lightsaber attack that shears through hard surfaces and pigs. The blue bird is now a rebel pilot, able to fire spread shots from its pistol. Levels are set in classic Star Wars backdrops and every time the game introduces a "new" bird, you'll see a classic Star Wars scene starring the birds."

Angry Birds Star Wars is available on iPhone ($0.99), iPad ($2.99), and on the Mac ($4.99)

What better way to count down your days till the release of Assassin's Creed III, than replay its illustrious predecessor. Go back; re-immerse yourself as Ezio Auditore as he continues on his historical quest. To inspire you forward, here is a review which will help cast your mind back to Ezio Auditore in Assasin’s Creed Revelations and ready you up for the next pinnacle in the Art of Assassination. 

Assassin’s Creed Revelations marks the final stab-wound of both eras explored in all three previous adventures and brings together the final journey of Ezio Auditore da Firenze and Altair Ibn-La’Ahad. Ubisoft have undoubtedly created the best chapter of the four piece ‘chef-d'oeuvre’ with its refined beauty undeniably coming out proudly on top its predecessors.

Ubisoft have done well to add several new features, but alike the Modern Warfare series, Assassin’s Creed Revelations remains very similar to its predecessors. Yet Assassin’s Creed evades falling victim to Modern Warfare criticism. With Revelations this similarity brings both strengths and weaknesses by sustaining an existing gameplay system while introducing many new features. 

Assassin’s Creed Revelations distinguished fighting mechanism explodes into the main bulk of the story in Constantinople. Its unique storyline, intricately designed gameplay and diversity of characters adds prominence to Ezio as he continues on his quest to eliminate the Templars. Revelations brings improvements in graphics and storytelling, creations of new characters and delves deeper into Desmond, who lies inside the collapsing Animus. Among all the hook-blading, spear-thrusting, bomb-throwing and gun-shooting lays a sparking relationship between Ezio and Sofia which is constantly interrupted by kill quests at every exchange. 

Revelations focuses on Ezio finding the Masyaf keys before the Templars to open the depths of Altair’s secret Library and seek out and find Altair enigma and discover the meaning of the memories triggered within each of the five keys. The few downsides of Revelations includes the weak Den Defence mini-game and Desmond’s almost boring side missions, yet these minor faults are nothing compared to the graphically excellent, gripping gameplay and well researched historical storyline, focused on an old yet swift monkey-ninja saving the world yet again using parkour, sword-fighting and frantically climbing towering structures while throwing the occasional cherry bomb. 

Assassin's Creed III will be released in the UK on October 31^st, 2012.  

Assassin's Creed III· Assassin's Creed Revelations· Game Review· gaming· Reviews

Assassin’s Creed Revelations - Review

What better way to count down your days till the release of Assassin's Creed III, than replay its illustrious predecessor. Go back; re-immerse yourself as Ezio Auditore as he continues on his historical quest. To inspire you forward, here is a review which will help cast your mind back to Ezio Auditore in Assasin’s Creed Revelations and ready you up for the next pinnacle in the Art of Assassination. 

Assassin’s Creed Revelations marks the final stab-wound of both eras explored in all three previous adventures and brings together the final journey of Ezio Auditore da Firenze and Altair Ibn-La’Ahad. Ubisoft have undoubtedly created the best chapter of the four piece ‘chef-d'oeuvre’ with its refined beauty undeniably coming out proudly on top its predecessors.

Ubisoft have done well to add several new features, but alike the Modern Warfare series, Assassin’s Creed Revelations remains very similar to its predecessors. Yet Assassin’s Creed evades falling victim to Modern Warfare criticism. With Revelations this similarity brings both strengths and weaknesses by sustaining an existing gameplay system while introducing many new features. 

Assassin’s Creed Revelations distinguished fighting mechanism explodes into the main bulk of the story in Constantinople. Its unique storyline, intricately designed gameplay and diversity of characters adds prominence to Ezio as he continues on his quest to eliminate the Templars. Revelations brings improvements in graphics and storytelling, creations of new characters and delves deeper into Desmond, who lies inside the collapsing Animus. Among all the hook-blading, spear-thrusting, bomb-throwing and gun-shooting lays a sparking relationship between Ezio and Sofia which is constantly interrupted by kill quests at every exchange. 

Revelations focuses on Ezio finding the Masyaf keys before the Templars to open the depths of Altair’s secret Library and seek out and find Altair enigma and discover the meaning of the memories triggered within each of the five keys. The few downsides of Revelations includes the weak Den Defence mini-game and Desmond’s almost boring side missions, yet these minor faults are nothing compared to the graphically excellent, gripping gameplay and well researched historical storyline, focused on an old yet swift monkey-ninja saving the world yet again using parkour, sword-fighting and frantically climbing towering structures while throwing the occasional cherry bomb. 

Assassin's Creed III will be released in the UK on October 31^st, 2012.  

Valve want's players of Team Fortress 2 to create Halloween-themed items for its next game update, scheduled to hit this October, according to a recent blog post on the developer's official website. Users can submit their designed through Steam Workshop, while those unable to to design items can still vote for the best ones. There are already many new creations available to see an vote for on the Steam community website.

Those new to model making can take a look at Valve's FAQ for Steam Workshop, and check out the Team Fortress 2 forums to share ideas.

Games· gaming· Mac· PC· Team Fortress 2· Valve

Team Fortress 2 Halloween Update

Valve want's players of Team Fortress 2 to create Halloween-themed items for its next game update, scheduled to hit this October, according to a recent blog post on the developer's official website. Users can submit their designed through Steam Workshop, while those unable to to design items can still vote for the best ones. There are already many new creations available to see an vote for on the Steam community website.

Those new to model making can take a look at Valve's FAQ for Steam Workshop, and check out the Team Fortress 2 forums to share ideas.

Borderlands 2 season pass will give users an amazing deal of all four upcoming DLC packs for just $30. This was revealed during the Gamestop press conference, and later confirmed to Kotaku by developer Gearbox Software.

There have been additional details leaked, one regarding that the season passes will be expected to launch in the near future, and with PAX just outside our front door, it seems likely that information will be made sooner rather than later.

Borderlands 2 is scheduled to launch on PC, Xbox 360, and Playstation 3 on September 18th.

Borderlands 2· DLC· gaming· Gearbox Software· PC· Season Pass· xbox· Xbox 360

Borderlands 2 season pass gets you all four DLC packs for $30

Borderlands 2 season pass will give users an amazing deal of all four upcoming DLC packs for just $30. This was revealed during the Gamestop press conference, and later confirmed to Kotaku by developer Gearbox Software.

There have been additional details leaked, one regarding that the season passes will be expected to launch in the near future, and with PAX just outside our front door, it seems likely that information will be made sooner rather than later.

Borderlands 2 is scheduled to launch on PC, Xbox 360, and Playstation 3 on September 18th.

Im guessing everyone has wondered what a game would look like on the rumoured 4-inch iPhone 5. Well, the developer of Ninja Fish has released a video showing what the game would look like the 4-inch display. The developer doesn't have any special information about the next iPhone, but is hsaring the video as an intellectual exercise.






Ninja Fish for iPhone is available in a both free, ad-supported version and a $0.99 paid version from the App Store.

4 inch display· Apple· Developer· gaming· iPhone· iPhone 5· Ninja Fish· Rumours

What would a game look like on a 4-inch iPhone?

Im guessing everyone has wondered what a game would look like on the rumoured 4-inch iPhone 5. Well, the developer of Ninja Fish has released a video showing what the game would look like the 4-inch display. The developer doesn't have any special information about the next iPhone, but is hsaring the video as an intellectual exercise.






Ninja Fish for iPhone is available in a both free, ad-supported version and a $0.99 paid version from the App Store.

Expansion Packs· Games· Gamescom· gaming· Live· pre-release· The Sims 3· The Sims 3 Seasons· The Sims 3 Supernatural

Sims 3 Supernatural and The Sims 3 Seasons @ gamescom [LIVE]

Dropbox

Free

Dropbox is probably one of the most key app that you need on your Nexus 7 device. You can access your important documents from anywhere, and now, even your Nexus 7. You get 2GB in the free account, and that it quite a bit given that the maximum memory of the device is 8GB to 16GB. The latest version features upload notifications and custom-tailored video streaming, and the app also automatically uploads photos and videos in the background over Wi-Fi on the Nexus 7.

Facebook

Free

Pretty much everyone is on Facebook now, so this is a well needed app to keep up-to-date with your Facebook notifications, chat to friends, browse pages and more all from this app.

Mint

Free

Mint's Android tablet app is pretty much the same as its iOS app, including a homescreen that focuses on charts and graphs letting you see your current overall financial picture at a glance. The latest version lets you create and edit budgets right from within the app.

Pulse

Free

Pulse pulls in news from thousands of sources and presents them in an amazing format, complete with art work. You can easily customise it by browsing lists sources and tapping the plus sign that interests you. This creates a completely personalised news page and delivers every story as it happens, so your always up-to-date. The app also contains news and information about any Jelly-bean related fixes. 

TweetCaster

Free

While you can easily download the Official Twitter client for Android, TweetCaster has a much more fluent interface and takes better advantage of the Nexus 7. TweetCaster also offers more of a sophisticated search, customisable retweets and content filters, and you can set up individual tables for local trends and retweets.

Skype

Free

The Nexus 7 has a built in mic and a front facing camera, so why not put it to use with Skype? Video call or audio call your friends or colleges. You can also instant message your friends or colleges. You can also make low-cost calls to regular mobile phones and landlines. 

DC Comics

Free

Who doesn't love comic books? If you are fans of Batman, Superman and Green Lantern, then you have waited a long time for this day to come, and now you can read all of the comics from your Nexus 7. You can also view the comics with choices from guided page views and full-page views. 

Kindle

Free

Google play has over 4 million titles, but that doesn't come close to Amazon titles. The Kindle version takes advantage of the Nexus 7's screen - which is still one inch larger than all dedicated E Ink-based Kindles - and now offers more control of margins and line space. 

TED

Free

The official TED app brings over 1,200 TED talks straight to your Nexus 7 device, from tech wizards, business experts, and music legends, among others. Now, you can save each individual talks to the device for later viewing - even offline. The latest version includes a better video player for 7-inch tablets, as well as plenty of bug fixes.

Hulu Plus

Free; $7.99 per month

Hulu Plus is one of the biggest competitions to Netflix and as far as streaming movie and TV apps are concerned, both of them cost the same amount. There are a few differences in the available catalogues; Hulu offers full seasons of The Office, Modern Family, Battlestar Galactica, and Family Guy, among others. The latest version includes improved support for 7-inch tablets like the Nexus 7, and you can now sign up for a weeks trial in the app.

IMDb

Free

Lets say you are watching a movie or a TV show that you like and you would like to quickly see the actors in that show, you can easily and quickly do this right from your Nexus 7 devices. The IMDb's interface is highly optimised for tablet like the Nexus 7, and the latest update adds the ability to stream movie trailers in HD.

Netflix 

Free; $7.99 per month

Netflix remains the go-to destination to watch all of your favourite movies and TV shows. Your $7.99-per month subscription works for all devices, so you can install it on your Smartphone and play it back on your Playstation 3 or Xbox 360. The latest version supports Jelly-bean - so it looks like you are all set. 

Pandora 

Free

Like free music? Then it doesn't get any better than this. The Pandora app is more expansive tablet-based interface that fits just right on the Nexus 7's screen. And Pandora's discovery algorithms - which break down down by tempo, chords and other features in a much more granular fashion than relying on mere genre - are still the best in the business. Finally audio now pauses whenever you unplug your headphones, instead of continuing to play out-loud through the tablet's speaker. 

Spotify 

Free; $9.99 per month

The amazing cloud-based music streaming service now contains over 15 million songs, all of which you can listen to on your Nexus 7. Unlike any other music streaming services, Spotify lets you set up playlists and choose all of your songs. Spotify has so many songs in its catalog, that it is in-fact possible you'll never need to buy music again. 

Dungeon Hunter 3

Free

Dungeon Hunter 3 is a little different, as it's not quite the action role-playing game earlier installments were; instead, you choose one of four new character classes and fight in 16 different areas, gaining experience points and unlocking over 1,000 items along the way. Motion blur and dynamic particle effects make the areans look sharp.

Galaxy On Fire 2 THD 

Free for first solar systems; $14.99 in-app purchases for full game

Explore over 20 different solar systems, mine asteroids, work as a pirate, and hone your space - mercenary skills with Galaxy On Fire 2 THD, a smooth running, Nvidia Tegra 3-optimised game that plays beautifully on the Galaxy Nexus 7 and runs on the tablets native 1280-800 - pixel resolution. The game features over 100 space stations and 30 customisable space stations.

Minecraft Pocket Edition

$6.99

Minecraft works extremely well on the Nexus 7, with very fast frame-rates and more screen real estate. Build anything you want with 36 different kinds of blocks, play with friends and save multiplayer worlds on the Nexus 7. 

Oregon Trailer: Settler 

$4.99

Make yourself at home on the American frontier in 1843. This newly-optimised game for the Nexus 7 features sharp, well drawn graphics and compiling gameplay that sucks you right in from the start, and the latest version looks amazing on the Nexus 7.

Riptide GP

Free

This game was incredibly fun on smartphones, but give it a amazing 7-inch display and watch how impressive the game gets. It's amazing and plays great, it offers higher-resolution textures on multi-core tablets like the Nexus 7. The game still defaults to a slightly lower resolution than what the screen is capable of, but that could change in the future. If you crank the sharpness slider to "native" and you saw impressive smooth frame rates, if not always at 60 per second. 

Android· Apps· gaming· Google· Headlines· News· Nexus 7

The Best Google Nexus 7 Apps

Dropbox

Free

Dropbox is probably one of the most key app that you need on your Nexus 7 device. You can access your important documents from anywhere, and now, even your Nexus 7. You get 2GB in the free account, and that it quite a bit given that the maximum memory of the device is 8GB to 16GB. The latest version features upload notifications and custom-tailored video streaming, and the app also automatically uploads photos and videos in the background over Wi-Fi on the Nexus 7.

Facebook

Free

Pretty much everyone is on Facebook now, so this is a well needed app to keep up-to-date with your Facebook notifications, chat to friends, browse pages and more all from this app.

Mint

Free

Mint's Android tablet app is pretty much the same as its iOS app, including a homescreen that focuses on charts and graphs letting you see your current overall financial picture at a glance. The latest version lets you create and edit budgets right from within the app.

Pulse

Free

Pulse pulls in news from thousands of sources and presents them in an amazing format, complete with art work. You can easily customise it by browsing lists sources and tapping the plus sign that interests you. This creates a completely personalised news page and delivers every story as it happens, so your always up-to-date. The app also contains news and information about any Jelly-bean related fixes. 

TweetCaster

Free

While you can easily download the Official Twitter client for Android, TweetCaster has a much more fluent interface and takes better advantage of the Nexus 7. TweetCaster also offers more of a sophisticated search, customisable retweets and content filters, and you can set up individual tables for local trends and retweets.

Skype

Free

The Nexus 7 has a built in mic and a front facing camera, so why not put it to use with Skype? Video call or audio call your friends or colleges. You can also instant message your friends or colleges. You can also make low-cost calls to regular mobile phones and landlines. 

DC Comics

Free

Who doesn't love comic books? If you are fans of Batman, Superman and Green Lantern, then you have waited a long time for this day to come, and now you can read all of the comics from your Nexus 7. You can also view the comics with choices from guided page views and full-page views. 

Kindle

Free

Google play has over 4 million titles, but that doesn't come close to Amazon titles. The Kindle version takes advantage of the Nexus 7's screen - which is still one inch larger than all dedicated E Ink-based Kindles - and now offers more control of margins and line space. 

TED

Free

The official TED app brings over 1,200 TED talks straight to your Nexus 7 device, from tech wizards, business experts, and music legends, among others. Now, you can save each individual talks to the device for later viewing - even offline. The latest version includes a better video player for 7-inch tablets, as well as plenty of bug fixes.

Hulu Plus

Free; $7.99 per month

Hulu Plus is one of the biggest competitions to Netflix and as far as streaming movie and TV apps are concerned, both of them cost the same amount. There are a few differences in the available catalogues; Hulu offers full seasons of The Office, Modern Family, Battlestar Galactica, and Family Guy, among others. The latest version includes improved support for 7-inch tablets like the Nexus 7, and you can now sign up for a weeks trial in the app.

IMDb

Free

Lets say you are watching a movie or a TV show that you like and you would like to quickly see the actors in that show, you can easily and quickly do this right from your Nexus 7 devices. The IMDb's interface is highly optimised for tablet like the Nexus 7, and the latest update adds the ability to stream movie trailers in HD.

Netflix 

Free; $7.99 per month

Netflix remains the go-to destination to watch all of your favourite movies and TV shows. Your $7.99-per month subscription works for all devices, so you can install it on your Smartphone and play it back on your Playstation 3 or Xbox 360. The latest version supports Jelly-bean - so it looks like you are all set. 

Pandora 

Free

Like free music? Then it doesn't get any better than this. The Pandora app is more expansive tablet-based interface that fits just right on the Nexus 7's screen. And Pandora's discovery algorithms - which break down down by tempo, chords and other features in a much more granular fashion than relying on mere genre - are still the best in the business. Finally audio now pauses whenever you unplug your headphones, instead of continuing to play out-loud through the tablet's speaker. 

Spotify 

Free; $9.99 per month

The amazing cloud-based music streaming service now contains over 15 million songs, all of which you can listen to on your Nexus 7. Unlike any other music streaming services, Spotify lets you set up playlists and choose all of your songs. Spotify has so many songs in its catalog, that it is in-fact possible you'll never need to buy music again. 

Dungeon Hunter 3

Free

Dungeon Hunter 3 is a little different, as it's not quite the action role-playing game earlier installments were; instead, you choose one of four new character classes and fight in 16 different areas, gaining experience points and unlocking over 1,000 items along the way. Motion blur and dynamic particle effects make the areans look sharp.

Galaxy On Fire 2 THD 

Free for first solar systems; $14.99 in-app purchases for full game

Explore over 20 different solar systems, mine asteroids, work as a pirate, and hone your space - mercenary skills with Galaxy On Fire 2 THD, a smooth running, Nvidia Tegra 3-optimised game that plays beautifully on the Galaxy Nexus 7 and runs on the tablets native 1280-800 - pixel resolution. The game features over 100 space stations and 30 customisable space stations.

Minecraft Pocket Edition

$6.99

Minecraft works extremely well on the Nexus 7, with very fast frame-rates and more screen real estate. Build anything you want with 36 different kinds of blocks, play with friends and save multiplayer worlds on the Nexus 7. 

Oregon Trailer: Settler 

$4.99

Make yourself at home on the American frontier in 1843. This newly-optimised game for the Nexus 7 features sharp, well drawn graphics and compiling gameplay that sucks you right in from the start, and the latest version looks amazing on the Nexus 7.

Riptide GP

Free

This game was incredibly fun on smartphones, but give it a amazing 7-inch display and watch how impressive the game gets. It's amazing and plays great, it offers higher-resolution textures on multi-core tablets like the Nexus 7. The game still defaults to a slightly lower resolution than what the screen is capable of, but that could change in the future. If you crank the sharpness slider to "native" and you saw impressive smooth frame rates, if not always at 60 per second.