All posts by Metal Jesus Rocks

Dune: Part 2 Movie Review

Dune: Part 2, movie reviewed by Tom Jorgensen

The appeal of the Dune books lies in their richly crafted universe, complex characters, and thought-provoking themes. Frank Herbert’s masterful storytelling transports readers to a distant future where political intrigue, religious fervor, and ecological concerns intertwine on the desert planet of Arrakis. The intricate world-building, with its detailed history, diverse cultures, and unique technology, captivates readers and invites them to immerse themselves in a universe both familiar and alien. From the power struggles of noble houses to the mystical abilities of the Bene Gesserit sisterhood and the enigmatic sandworms that shape the planet’s destiny, Dune offers a tapestry of narratives that continually intrigue and surprise.

Furthermore, the characters in the Dune series are multi-dimensional and morally ambiguous, adding depth and complexity to the story. Protagonists like Paul Atreides grapple with questions of destiny and the consequences of power, while antagonists such as Baron Vladimir Harkonnen embody the dangers of unchecked ambition. Themes of ecology, religion, politics, and the human condition resonate throughout the series, inviting readers to ponder timeless questions about the nature of power, the fragility of ecosystems, and the limits of knowledge. The combination of gripping storytelling, philosophical depth, and imaginative world-building has made the Dune books enduring classics that continue to captivate readers across generations.

Top 10 Most RARE Atari 2600 Games as of 2024

Ranking the top 10 most rare and expensive Atari 2600 games can vary depending on factors like condition, scarcity, and collector demand. However, here’s a general list based on historical data and collector insights:

10. Birthday Mania:
Birthday Mania is a rare and sought-after game for the Atari 2600. Released by US Games in 1984, it features a unique gameplay concept where players must blow out candles on a cake by using the joystick controller. Its scarcity and novelty contribute to its high value among collectors.

9. Save Mary:
Save Mary, a prototype, is another rare title for the Atari 2600. Players control a firefighter who must rescue a woman from a burning building by bouncing her to safety on a trampoline. Its limited release and unconventional gameplay make it a coveted item for collectors.

8. Red Sea Crossing:
Red Sea Crossing is a biblical-themed game developed by Steve Schustack and released by Inspirational Video Concepts in 1983. Players control Moses as he crosses the Red Sea, avoiding obstacles and collecting items. Its religious theme and limited distribution contribute to its high value among collectors.

7. Killer Satellites:
Killer Satellites, released by Starpath (formerly Arcadia Corporation) in 1983, is a space shooter game where players must defend Earth from enemy satellites. It is notable for being one of the few games that utilized the Starpath Supercharger add-on, enhancing its graphics and gameplay. Its relative rarity and association with the Supercharger make it highly sought after by collectors.

6. Atlantis II:
Atlantis II, also known as Atlantis II (Hack), is a hacked version of the popular game Atlantis, released by Imagic in 1982. This unauthorized variant features enhanced gameplay and graphics compared to the original, making it a desirable item for collectors seeking unique variations of classic titles.

5. Video Life:
Video Life, released by CommaVid in 1981, is a simulation game where players control the life cycle of an organism in a virtual environment. Despite its simplistic graphics and gameplay, its rarity and historical significance as one of the first life simulation games for home consoles contribute to its high value among collectors.

4. Gamma-Attack:
Gamma-Attack, developed by Gammation and released in limited quantities in 1983, is a space shooter game where players control a spaceship battling alien invaders. Its scarcity, coupled with its association with the Gamma-Attack prototype console, makes it one of the most sought-after titles for the Atari 2600.

3. Extra Terrestrials:
Extra Terrestrials, developed by Skill Screen Games and published by Answers Software in 1984, is a rare and elusive game for the Atari 2600. Inspired by E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial for the Atari 2600, this unofficial sequel features improved gameplay and graphics. Its limited release and association with the infamous E.T. game contribute to its high value among collectors.

2. Air Raid:
Air Raid, released by Men-A-Vision in 1982, is one of the rarest and most valuable games for the Atari 2600. Players control a turret defending against enemy aircraft in a scrolling shooter gameplay. Its distinctive blue cartridge and scarcity make it a highly sought-after item among collectors, with complete copies fetching high prices at auctions.

1. Red Sea Crossing (Silver):
Red Sea Crossing (Silver) is a variant of the original Red Sea Crossing game, featuring a silver-colored cartridge. Only a handful of these cartridges are known to exist, making it one of the rarest and most valuable Atari 2600 games ever produced. Its unique appearance and extreme scarcity have elevated its value to astronomical levels, with complete copies fetching tens of thousands of dollars at auctions.

Keep in mind that prices and availability of these games can fluctuate over time, and this list represents a snapshot of the market as of the time of writing.

Wolfenstein-inspired BioFury: The Epic New 3DO Game

Today I unbox a BioFury Collector’s Edition (Number 39 of 100) that I purchased from World of Games and share with you this wonderful new release for the 3DO! You can still pick up the standard release here: https://worldofgamespublishing.com/shop

The 3DO Interactive Multiplayer, released in 1993, was a pioneering gaming console developed by The 3DO Company. Marketed as a high-end multimedia system, the 3DO was unique in that it was not manufactured by a single company but rather licensed to various manufacturers such as Panasonic, GoldStar (now LG), and Sanyo. It boasted impressive specifications for its time, including a 32-bit RISC CPU, which offered significantly better performance compared to other consoles of the era like the Sega Genesis and Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES). The 3DO also featured advanced graphics capabilities and CD-ROM technology, allowing for more immersive gaming experiences with full-motion video and CD-quality audio.

Despite its powerful hardware and innovative features, the 3DO struggled to gain widespread adoption due to its high price point, which was initially set at $699 in the United States. This made it one of the most expensive gaming consoles on the market at the time, limiting its appeal to a niche audience of early adopters and enthusiasts. Additionally, the lack of exclusive titles and strong third-party support further hindered its success, as many developers were hesitant to invest in the platform given its relatively small user base. Despite these challenges, the 3DO did have a library of notable games such as “Star Control II,” “Road Rash,” and “The Need for Speed,” which showcased the console’s capabilities and contributed to its legacy as a groundbreaking but ultimately commercially unsuccessful gaming platform.

Ken & Roberta Williams Sends a Message to Adventure Game Fans

Ken and Roberta Williams will be one of the guests that you will get to visit with at the Adventure Game Fan Fair.

https://adventuregamehotspot.com/

The Adventure Game Fan Fair will be the first annual convention to bring together adventure developers, artists, creators and fans in the United States. We’ll be honoring the people who have shaped the genre’s past and present with the first official Adventure Game Hall of Fame Awards Ceremony. This specialty event will feature exciting panels, interactive exhibits, exclusive prizes and, most importantly, the opportunity to meet face-to-face with gaming legends!

The inaugural Fan Fair will be held the weekend of July 27th and 28th at the University of Washington in Tacoma, WA. Space is limited! The Kickstarter is already underway, so be sure to support if you want to secure your passes. VIP tickets are available exclusively to backers, as well as many other exciting perks. And with your help, should we exceed our initial funding goal, we have many more plans in store, including a third day! We look forward to seeing you there!

Sierra On-Line, founded in 1979 by husband and wife team Ken and Roberta Williams, played a pivotal role in shaping the early landscape of computer gaming. Initially focusing on graphical adventure games, Sierra On-Line quickly gained renown for titles like “King’s Quest,” which introduced players to immersive storytelling and groundbreaking visuals. The company’s commitment to innovation extended beyond gameplay mechanics; Sierra also pioneered the use of voice acting in games, enhancing the narrative experience for players.

As Sierra On-Line grew, it expanded its portfolio to include a diverse range of genres, from simulation and strategy games to role-playing adventures. With hits like “Space Quest,” “Police Quest,” and “Leisure Suit Larry,” Sierra solidified its status as a leading developer and publisher in the gaming industry. Despite facing challenges in the late 1990s and eventually being acquired by various companies, Sierra’s legacy endures through its groundbreaking contributions to gaming culture and its lasting impact on the evolution of interactive entertainment.

Raspberry Pi 5 Review : Is it still a viable low cost general PC?

I finally got my hands on a Raspberry Pi 5 – With cost of Intel and AMD based mini PCs continuing to drop are the Pi’s still good for general computing purposes? We’ll explore that question in this review.

The Raspberry Pi line of computers, launched in 2012 by the Raspberry Pi Foundation, has become synonymous with affordable and versatile computing solutions. These small, single-board computers are designed to promote computer science education and facilitate DIY projects in various fields such as robotics, home automation, and digital media. The Raspberry Pi boards typically feature a low-power ARM-based CPU, along with GPU capabilities, RAM, USB ports, HDMI output, and GPIO (General Purpose Input/Output) pins for interfacing with external devices. Despite their compact size and modest hardware specifications, Raspberry Pi computers offer impressive performance for a wide range of applications, from basic programming tasks to multimedia playback and even lightweight server hosting.

One of the key strengths of the Raspberry Pi line is its accessibility and community support. With a relatively low price point starting at around $35 for the basic model, Raspberry Pi computers have democratized access to computing resources, particularly in developing countries and educational institutions. The Raspberry Pi Foundation actively promotes learning and innovation through its extensive online resources, including tutorials, forums, and a vibrant community of enthusiasts and developers. This ecosystem has led to the creation of thousands of projects and applications, ranging from simple electronics experiments to complex IoT (Internet of Things) solutions. As a result, the Raspberry Pi has become a symbol of the maker movement and a versatile tool for empowering individuals to explore and create with technology.

Resident Evil 4 Gold Edition – Launch Trailer

Enjoy Resident Evil 4 to its fullest with the base game, Separate Ways story DLC, and an Extra DLC Pack with Resident Evil 4 Gold Edition! The action-packed The Mercenaries mode is also available as a free DLC. Resident Evil 4 Gold Edition Release date: Feb. 9, 2024

Resident Evil 4 is widely regarded as one of the most popular and influential video games in the survival horror genre. Released in 2005 by Capcom, it revolutionized the series by introducing a more action-oriented gameplay style while still retaining elements of horror and tension. One of the key reasons for its popularity is its innovative over-the-shoulder third-person perspective, which provided players with a more immersive and dynamic experience compared to the fixed camera angles of its predecessors. This new perspective allowed for greater control and precision in aiming weapons, enhancing the game’s combat mechanics and making encounters with enemies more intense and visceral.

Another factor contributing to Resident Evil 4’s popularity is its compelling storyline and atmospheric setting. The game follows special agent Leon S. Kennedy as he embarks on a mission to rescue the President’s daughter from a sinister cult in rural Europe. The eerie and atmospheric environments, along with the grotesque and menacing enemies, create a sense of dread and unease throughout the game. Additionally, Resident Evil 4 features a variety of memorable and challenging boss battles, as well as clever puzzles and exploration elements that keep players engaged and immersed in the game world. Combined with its polished gameplay mechanics and high production values, Resident Evil 4 set a new standard for action-horror games and continues to be beloved by fans and critics alike for its thrilling gameplay experience.

Let’s fix up some Apple Macs! Which of these is the most reliable? #repair

Adrian’s Digital Basement takes a look at repairing a classic Apple Mac SE.

The Apple Macintosh SE, introduced in March 1987, was a significant addition to Apple’s line of personal computers. It featured a compact all-in-one design, combining the CPU, memory, storage, and display in a single unit. The SE stood for “System Expansion,” highlighting its capability for expansion through its unique design. With a 9-inch black-and-white CRT display with a resolution of 512×342 pixels, the Macintosh SE offered crisp graphics and legible text for its time, making it suitable for a variety of tasks including word processing, graphic design, and desktop publishing. The machine was powered by a Motorola 68000 processor running at 8 MHz, delivering respectable performance for its era.

One notable feature of the Macintosh SE was its expandability, with two expansion slots allowing users to add additional functionality such as networking capabilities or extra storage. Additionally, it was one of the first Macintosh models to feature a built-in SCSI port, enabling easy connection to external devices such as hard drives and scanners. The SE was available in several configurations, including options for different amounts of RAM and storage capacities. Despite its compact size, the Macintosh SE was a versatile and capable machine that played a significant role in shaping the personal computing landscape of the late 1980s and early 1990s, contributing to Apple’s reputation for innovation and user-friendly design.

PlayStation 4 / PS4 Games Hidden Gems (also play on PS5)

Brand new PlayStation 4 Hidden Gems that also play on the PlayStation 5!
GAMES SHOWN:
Gravity Rush 2
Ketsui Deathtiny
Steel Rats
Paper Beast (VR Game)
MediEvil (2019 video game)
Gundam Breaker 3
Hotshot Racing
The Order: 1886

More PS4 Hidden Gems: https://youtu.be/12X-_QEWIdU

The success of the PlayStation 4 (PS4) can be attributed to several key factors. Firstly, Sony’s strategic focus on delivering powerful hardware at an affordable price point was pivotal. The PS4 boasted significantly upgraded specifications compared to its predecessor, offering improved graphics, processing power, and memory capacity. This allowed developers to create visually stunning games with immersive gameplay experiences, captivating both hardcore gamers and casual players alike. Additionally, Sony’s commitment to building a robust ecosystem around the PS4, including a diverse library of exclusive titles, innovative features such as remote play and Share Play, and an intuitive user interface, further enhanced the console’s appeal. By prioritizing consumer preferences and consistently delivering high-quality gaming experiences, Sony was able to cultivate a loyal fan base and maintain a competitive edge in the gaming market.

Furthermore, Sony’s adept marketing strategies played a crucial role in the PS4’s success. The company effectively capitalized on social media platforms and traditional advertising channels to generate hype and create widespread anticipation for the console’s release. Leveraging strategic partnerships with game developers and publishers, as well as exclusive content deals, Sony ensured that the PS4 remained at the forefront of the gaming conversation. Additionally, the company’s emphasis on community engagement and user feedback fostered a sense of belonging among gamers, strengthening brand loyalty and driving sales. Ultimately, Sony’s comprehensive approach to product development, coupled with savvy marketing tactics and a focus on user experience, propelled the PS4 to become one of the best-selling consoles of all time, solidifying its position as a dominant force in the gaming industry.

Golden Sun Review – Does It Hold Up on Switch?

The Golden Sun series is a beloved franchise of role-playing games (RPGs) that was developed by Camelot Software Planning and published by Nintendo. The series debuted with “Golden Sun” for the Game Boy Advance in 2001, followed by its sequel “Golden Sun: The Lost Age” in 2002. The games are known for their engaging narrative, intricate puzzle-solving elements, and a unique combat system centered around the manipulation of elemental forces called Psynergy. Set in the fantasy world of Weyard, players embark on an epic quest as Adepts, individuals with the ability to wield Psynergy, to prevent the resurrection of an ancient destructive force known as Alchemy. The narrative unfolds across generations, intertwining the stories of various characters as they explore diverse landscapes, solve puzzles, and engage in turn-based battles against formidable foes.

What sets the Golden Sun series apart is its innovative use of Psynergy, a form of elemental magic that characters can utilize both in and out of battles. The games incorporate a Djinn system, where creatures known as Djinn can be collected, assigned to characters, and unleashed strategically during combat to summon powerful entities or alter character classes. This dynamic gameplay mechanic adds depth and strategy to battles, encouraging players to experiment with different combinations of Djinn for optimal synergy. The series is fondly remembered for its engaging plot, well-developed characters, and the synergy of its gameplay systems, creating a memorable and immersive RPG experience for fans of the genre.