First Look: Scrolls, the latest from the minds that brought us MineCraft

Today Scrolls, the latest game from the folks at Mojang who brought us MineCraft hit open BETA, giving everyone a chance to learn gameplay and strategy before the game goes world-wide in general release.  Gameplay is based on collectable card games such as Magic: The Gathering, but has some unique twists and strategy that will make it fresh and exciting.  I got my login for the beta this afternoon, and am taking this break to give you all a look!

Gameplay starts with customizing your game deck.You start by customizing your deck.  The minimum legal deck size is 50 cards, and you get a full deck from one of the three factions to start.  As you complete games versus the AI you earn gold, which can be used to buy additional cards, and allowing you to customize your deck in myriads of ways.  You also can trade cards with other players, giving you additional options to create a winning and powerful deck.

Once you have assembled your deck, to can play a quick game, or compete in trialsGameplay then begins, with quick play games to practice, and then trial scenarios allow you to win gold to use for purchasing more cards.  Gameplay is pretty simple to follow, but infinitely complex to master.  Each player has their own side of the board, and each row has an idol which you need to protect.  Once you get past the enemies and destroy three of the other players idols, you have won the game.  Likewise, if three of your idols fall, you are defeated.

When you win a game, you are awarded gold based on several criteriaOnce you win a game, awards and statistics are presented for your review.  Your ranking is based on how well you do against other players, not the computer.  The more you play, the more you increase your stats and improve your ranking.  One word of warning, the tutorial makes this game look very easy, but once you complete it the difficulty goes up incrementally.

As I get deeper into the game I will post updates, but this should give you a decent idea of what Mojang is up to.

 

Mojang — Makers of Minecraft:

Scrolls is in open beta! On-sale now!

 

Kickstarter Project to watch - nuplug

Kickstarter has allowed many great ideas to become reality in the last year or so, and this is a project that I would love to see work for the creator.  The concept is pretty ingenious.  An extension cord with USB and power outlets, but with a twist - it will clamp onto a solid surface to hold it in place.  This will help clean up the rats nest of cords most of us have by our couches and bedsides as well.

Watch the video and consider helping this guy out.  I think this will be a hit, but there are only four days left in the campaign and he still needs $14K to get it backed.

 

nuplug™ the most convenient outlet for your smart-devices by Michael Carpanzano — Kickstarter:

Get ready for a much more comfortable and convenient way to continue using your smart-devices while they are charging.  nuplug™ is an intuitive and functional solution for many of your power related needs, and with your support, we can make it available for everyone.

 

New rugged tablet trying to come to market - Meet Earl!

This is one of the most promising crowd-funded projects I've seen in a while.  The concept is a rugged e-ink based tablet, which is able to charge fully in 5 hours of sunlight.  The e-ink will keep power usage low, extending runtime to an awesome 20 hours between charges.  This thing is loaded with features and is almost ready for production, they just need some pre-orders to get them there. With a backer price of $249, this could be a huge hit for those who love the outdoors.  Check it out at the link below:

Earl - Backcountry Survival Tablet:

Meet Earl, a revolutionary tablet engineered for the most extreme of outdoor situations. Built for survival, Earl works where today's smart phones and tablets cannot. Style meets efficiency with Earl's intuitive design, fusing Android 4.1 together with an energy sipping E-Ink screen and the latest in GPS, weather sensor, and radio communication technology. With Earl at your side, stay in control of your journey no matter where it takes you.

 

Unboxing: Microsoft Surface RT

Just opened the box

Simplified, well designed packaging. Is this really from Microsoft?

Outside slip cover holds packaging for the Surface and the Touch Cover together

Simple, no frills packaging

Quick and simple setup...

On first launch there were fifteen apps that needed updating in the Modern UI

Even in their modern, stripped down new OS, a DOS prompt can be found...

Surface updated and ready to use....stay tuned for my first look

Apple Special Event - "A little something to share"

For the first time in a while, Apple surprised us by pushing out a press release that they would be streaming today's event and adding a special events channel to AppleTV's.

iPhone 5 has sold faster than any other smartphone in history, selling more than (insert number her) in just a month, bringing the total number of iOS devices in use to more than 200 Million.  There are more than 700k apps in the app store, 275k made for iPad specifically.  More than 35 Billion application downloads since the launch of iOS, equalling more than $6.5 Billion paid to developers since it's launch.

First announcement for the day is a new version of iBooks, which is now going to be better integrated with iCloud, and includes a new auto-scroll feature to help you read without interaction (great when reading on the machines at the gym).

We have new Mac announcements!  First, the 13" MacBook Pro now has a Retina display.  20% Thinner, and weighing in a pound lighter at 3.75lbs.  Shipping Today with a 2.53GHz Core i5 processor, 8GB RAM, 256GB HDD for $1699.  

Next, Mac Mini is upgraded to the Ivy Bridge chipset with both i5 and i7 processors, expanding maximum RAM to 16GB and starting at $599 and shipping Today.

 

Finally, iMac is completely redesigned.  Just 5mm thick at the edges, this thing is insanely thin.  They have laminated the display to the glass, eliminating a 2mm air gap from prefious models.  They have removed the optical drive.  Available in 21.5" and 27" models, the new displays provide 75% less reflection, and are shipping color calibrated individually from the production line, a hug deal for folks in print and video industries.  Up to 32GB of RAM now available in the iMac, with the same processor upgrades to IVY Bridge chipsets as the other Macs announced today.

Huge change is the new "Fusion Drive" announced for the Mini and the iMac.  Drives include 128GB of RAM and any ammount of physical storage.  The entire OS and all pre-configured apps run in FLASH.  The software will re-configure storage, moving your more common apps and files to the faster flash storage.

21.5-inch: 2.7GHz

  • 2.7GHz quad-core Intel Core i5
  • Turbo Boost up to 3.2GHz
  • 8GB (two 4GB) memory
  • 1TB hard drive1
  • NVIDIA GeForce GT 640M with 512MB

  • Available in November
  • Free Shipping
  • $1,299.00

27-inch: 2.9GHz

  • 2.9GHz quad-core Intel Core i5
  • Turbo Boost up to 3.6GHz
  • 8GB (two 4GB) memory
  • 1TB hard drive1
  • NVIDIA GeForce GTX 660M with 512MB

  • Available in December
  • Free Shipping
  • $1,799.00

 

 New iPad! 100 Millionth iPad sold a few weeks ago.  4th Gen iPad is announced today.  Featuring the A6X processor from the iPhone 5.  Lightning Connector, with new adapters for VGA, HDMI, SD Card and USB.  Same prices as the previous models, starting at $499.  Also we now see the iPad Mini!  23% thinner than the iPad, weighing in at .68lbs.  Black and White with the same look as the iPhone 5 on the back.  7.9" Display, 1024x768 resolution.  All software for the iPad will be compatible since resolution is the same.  iPad mini will use the A5 processor from the iPad 2 and iPhone 4.  16GB starts at $329 with pre-orders on Friday the 26th and wi-fi versions shipping Nov. 2nd.  LTE version of the Mini will follow 2 weeks later on Nov. 16th

Apple Special Announcement - New iPhone and iPods

This morning Apple held an event to announce new products, and the only thing that wasn't already reported by rumor sites like AppleInsider and MacRumors was the new iPod Nano that was was announced.  Here is the run down of todays announcements:

1. iPhone 5 - The new iPhone 5 will be available for pre-order starting Friday, 9/14.  22% Lighter, 20% Thinner, wit han improved camera and worldwide LTE cellular data starting at $199 for the 8GB model.  The pictures that leaked over the last several weeks proved accurate, with some of them looking suspiciously like those that now adorn Apple's website.  Here's the iPhone lineup shipping 9/21:

iPhone 4 - 8GB - Free with contract

iPhone 4s - 16GB - $99 with contract

iPhone 5 - 16GB - $199 with contract

iPhone 5 - 32GB - $299 with contract

iPhone 5 - 64GB - $399 with contract

2. iPod Touch 5th Generation - This wasn't leaked as well, but was expected by many.  Featuring the same 4" screen as the new iPhone, the new iPod Touch has a processor upgrade to Apple's A5 chip, is thinner, lighter, and features an improved camera.  The 32GB iPod Touch is $299, 64GB iPod Touch is $399.  New iPods are available for pre-order on Friday, 9/14 and will ship in October.

3. iPod Nano 7th Generation - This one wasn't even hinted at by the rumor sites.  Many of us expected a new Nano, as a new design has been released every year for the last several years.  The suprise is that instead of getting smaller as it has over recent years, the Nano has now grown again to a 2.5" screen.  Resembling nothing more than a miniturized iPhone, the new Nano fetures multi-touch, a built in pedometer and fitness applications, FM Tuner with Digital Audio Recording (allowing you to pause and rewind radio), and for the first time in the Nano history Bluetooth.  These will also ship in October, 16GB for $149.

 

Amazon to release new Kindle units over the next several months

On Wednesday, Amazon held a press announcement in Southern California to announce the roadmap for Kindle device releases through the end of November.  Coming in at a variety of price points, here is the new line-up:

 

1. Kindle, 6" E Ink Display, Wi-Fi - Includes Special Offers

The basic Kindle has been updated with better fonts, 15% faster page turns, and improved wi-fi.  Oh, and they improved the price....the Kindle is now just $69 and is available now.

2. Kindle Paperwhite, 6" High Resolution Display with Built-in Light, Wi-Fi

Amazon announced a new front-lit e-ink reader to compete with the Nook Glow-Touch.  From the images we've seen and the demo on Wednesday it looks like a winner, and comes in almost $30 dollars less than the Nook at $119 for the Wi-Fi version.  It is also available with 3G at $179.  The PaperWhite will ship the first week of October.

3. Kindle Fire HD 7"

Amazon announced a new HD version of their popular Fire tablet, bringing a faster processor and 720p video to the platform, while doubling memory capacity from 8GB to 16GB.  The amazing thing was the announcement that the price would remain $199, and the original Fire would be upgraded slighly while reducing the price to $159.  The 7" HD will begin shipping Sept. 14th.

4. Kindle Fire HD 8.9"

The big news of the day was the announcement that they were "Going Big".  Jeff Bezos and company announced an 8.9" tablet in the Fire line.  Boasting 1080p video with HDMI output, 32GB of RAM and a processor that it claims has 2x the performance of the Tegra 3 Chipset, the Kindle Fire 8.9" HD is making a very strong play.  The important part of this announcement isn't the specs though, it is price point.  Starting at just $299 it is going to provide stiff competition to Apple's iPad line, coming in $200 lower than the entry level iPad.  Amazon also announced a 4G LTE version of the 8.9" tablet, with the offer of 250MB of 4G data for just $50 a YEAR.  Compared to the $25 monthly charge of the lowest priced Apple tablets and you have a solid counter punch to sway budget-minded consumers your way.  While 250MB of data isn't much and there still has not been any announcement of other data plans, this could be huge for Amazon this holiday season.  The 8.9" units will start shipping in late November.

 

We have all 3 new units on their way, and I'll post reviews as soon as possible.

Apple Special Announcement - The NEW iPad

Well, the event is over, and new products have been announced.

The new AppleTV came first.  Not a huge update, but good news none the less.  The AppleTV has been a long running hobby for Apple, and they are making some improvements.  1080P video (up from the 720P maximum before), a new interface that looks more like the home screen of an iOS device.  I was hoping for FaceTime with an integrated camera, but it did not come yet.  Once it does, Apple has reinvented the set-top box.  Apple just posted an update for the current AppleTV, so I will update you and let you know if the new interface comes to the "old" device.

The big news is the new iPad.  Same price, 4x graphics with the new A5x processor.  Full 1080P HD video with the new retina display, better cameras, 4G LTE internet with speeds up to 72 MB/sec.  They improved everything that has made the iPad stay ahead of the tablet game so far.

Also announced was iPhoto for iOS (no word on whether this will work with other devices), updates to iWork and iLife applications like garage band and iMovie.

Apple has now put the video up for you to watch here, and updates for all of your iDevices are available for update as well.

Laser Tag to go to the big room!

Hasbro sent out a press release about the upcoming NERF LaserTag line, and I can't wait!  Pairing via BlueTooth with your smartphone will allow you to use the phone as a heads-up display for your game, including locations of virtual targets, and shot information versus human opponenents.  Out in the real world, you will be able to play versus friends and versus randomly matched opponents.  Forget spending $10 a game at laser port, now you can play anywhere!  Its on now boys!

Here is the text of the press release:

LAZER TAG 2012 PRODUCT DESCRIPTIONS

From the makers of the popular NERF blasters comes the revolutionary LAZER TAG system, combining the power, precision and excitement of live-action blaster battles with the high-action, strategic, augmented reality gameplay of traditional video games. To experience the LAZER TAG game, players download the free LAZER TAG app to their iPhone or iPod touch device, connect their device to their LAZER TAG blaster, and find themselves immersed in a world where video games and real life connect. Using either single or multi-player mode, players can engage in a LAZER TAG match featuring either real life worlds or virtual opponents. Each LAZER TAG blaster equipped with a device has a virtual firing range of over 250 feet and contains a 'Heads Up Display', or HUD, which allows players to keep track of their gear and remaining power, while also providing a view of the augmented reality targets and enemies in the area. A virtual leaderboard keeps track of each player's profile and, with every successful mission, players will gain in-game access to upgradeable attacks, missions and gear. With LAZER TAG blasters, the stakes are high, the game is real. Don't just play it, live it.

The 2012 LAZER TAG product line includes:

LAZER TAG 2 BLASTER Set
(HASBRO/Ages 8 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $69.99/Available: August 1, 2012)
Get into the game with the ultimate LAZER TAG 2 BLASTER set, brought to you by the makers of the NERF brand. Set includes two LAZER TAG blasters. For enhanced augmented reality gameplay, simply download the free LAZER TAG app to an iPhone or iPod touch device and then connect the device to the blaster to activate the immersive gaming experience. When in multi-player mode, blasters are equipped with a virtual firing range of over 250 feet and an on-screen 'Heads Up Display' which, for the first time with LAZER TAG, allows players to see the lazer and keep track of their gear and remaining power. In the solo campaign, the blasters provide a view of the augmented reality targets and enemies in the area. Performing well in combat and mastering levels will increase players' stats on a virtual leaderboard, as well as unlock upgrades for attacks, missions, gear and firepower. Game may be played in single-player mode, or in multi-player mode with up to 24 people. Players can also play LAZER TAG without a device using the blaster's classic multi-player mode. Each blaster requires 6 AA batteries, not included. Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.

LAZER TAG Blaster
(HASBRO/Ages 8 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $39.99/Available: August 1, 2012)
Live the mission and conquer opposing forces with the innovative LAZER TAG blaster, from the makers of NERF products. For solo campaigns, players begin the game by simply downloading the free LAZER TAG app to an iPhone or iPod touch device and then connecting the device to the blaster. Players are then immersed in a live-action virtual gaming experience like no other. The on-screen Heads Up Display reveals virtual foes and targets in single-player mode and real-life worlds in multi-player mode, all while keeping track of remaining power and hits. Playing the LAZER TAG game as a single player allows players to use skill and strategy to master levels of increased difficulty, earning points and rewards along the way. Multi-player mode pits players against enemies in an epic competition where ability, energy and instinct rule. LAZER TAG blasters boast a virtual firing range of over 250 feet! Game may be played in single-player mode, or in multi-player mode with up to 24 people. Players can also play LAZER TAG without a device using the blaster's classic multi-player mode. Available in either white or yellow; each sold separately. Each blaster requires 6 AA batteries, not included. Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.

New innovation keeps coming

Just when you think everything great has already been invented, we get reminders that there are still those among us with the ability to create things we never thought of.  From self-cooling beverage cans (I hope beer companies get this together NOW) to polymers that protect your electronics from the elements, here is an article from Smithsonian.com highlighting some great things coming.

What will they think of next?

Dash - The Smartphone Radio

Kickstarter has become a force to be reconed with in a world where individuals mean more than Venture Capital.  I love looking at the great ideas people come up with, and the genrosity of people who catch the idea and the passion of others to help them realise their dreams.

 

Dash is the latest to catch MY attention, and I can't wait to see it come to market.  The idea is a dedicated head unit for your car that uses your iPhone as the control.  It accesses the audio output and plays it through your speakers, giving you access to all of your navigation, audio and other applications without needing to learn a new interface.

The idea is a great one, and the crowd-sourced funding is going to allow it to come to market pretty quickly.

Sphero has arrived!

When Sphero was first announced I thought it was an interesting idea, but didn't know if it was something I could really love. Now that it has arrived, I can't stop wondering what these guys will come up with next. I'll be playing around with them more tonight when the kids get home, but here is a quick rundown.
Sphero is a remote-controlled ball. I know, not very exciting at face value.

The thing that makes Sphero great are the applications. Golf, where you use the iPhone or iPod Touch as a virtual club. Sphero, which is just a simple remote control to play around with it. SpheroCam, which lets you shoot video and pictures of your Sphero in action. Draw&Drive let's you draw a path on the screen of your iDevice and watch the Sphero follow the path.

The exciting thing is what could come next. I can think of tons of applications. I would detail them here, but then I wouldn't be able to sell the apps.

Stay tuned for video and fun with the kids tomorrow.

Apple Special Announcement - Education

Apple has just posted the video from this mornings event, and I'm watching it now.  I think the barrier for entry for a lot of people is going to make it hard for iPads to get traction in schools, but certainly starting with the collegiate market can help speed that.  Apple launched itself to the forfront of computing in the late 70's by getting their Apple II into schools, where it was a mainstay even through the 80's when I was in elementary and junior high school.  If they can do the same with the iPad, they could really make a difference.

Making the tools available to educators to build course work into .epub files that can organize assignments and link to text books could be huge.  I know my Son loves his iPad, and could probably be much more interested in reading and homework if everything could be done on his iPad.

The other great part of this is the fact that textbooks becoming digital will relieve so many students of the hulking backpacks they need to carry every day.  In addition, allowing textbooks to become interactive in this way I think can really appeal to the internet generation.

I'll be playing around with the new applications released today, and will have a review of them up tomorrow.  Stay tuned!

The video of the event can be found here.

Kindle Fire review coming tomorrow!

OK folks, our first try at how this format will work is coming tomorrow.  Our review will include not only my take, but perspectives from the wife and kids.  I can't wait to get the ball rolling, but don't have much choice.  Someday we'll be big enough that I get devices pre-release instead of waiting for normal shipping.

Also look for a case roundup, I have 4 or 5 coming along with the Kindle Fire.

Working on the business plan while I update the shipping status on Amazon.com every few minutes.

 

Stay tuned!