Tag Archives: PC

Restoring a 1997 Gateway PC! Windows 95 Pentium 2 Desktop (LGR)

I got this nifty Gateway 2000 desktop from the 90s and don’t know much about it! Except that it cost $2,649 when it was new. So let’s dive into the G6-233M with its Pentium II MMX 233MHz and see what else is inside, what’s broken or missing, and what needs repair and cleaning and such.

Gateway, Inc., formerly known as Gateway 2000, was a prominent American computer hardware company that emerged in 1985 in Sioux City, Iowa. Founded by Ted Waitt and Mike Hammond, Gateway initially started as a small operation in Waitt’s family barn but quickly grew into a major player in the PC market. Gateway gained recognition for its direct sales model, allowing customers to purchase computers directly from the company through catalogs and later online. This approach, coupled with their distinctive cow-spotted packaging, helped Gateway carve out a niche in the fiercely competitive personal computer industry.

Throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, Gateway experienced significant growth and became one of the top PC manufacturers in the United States. The company expanded its product lineup beyond desktops to include laptops, servers, monitors, and computer accessories. Gateway’s consumer-friendly branding and emphasis on customer service further endeared it to consumers. However, as the PC market evolved and competition intensified, Gateway faced challenges, including declining sales and financial difficulties. In 2007, the company was acquired by Acer Inc., marking the end of an era for one of the iconic brands of the PC industry.

Bringing Alpha Protocol back from the dead (GOG Behind the Scenes Documentary)

Alpha Protocol is an action role-playing game developed by Obsidian Entertainment and published by Sega. Released in 2010, the game follows the story of Michael Thorton, a highly skilled secret agent working for a clandestine organization known as Alpha Protocol. Set in a contemporary world of espionage, conspiracy, and political intrigue, the game offers players a dynamic narrative experience driven by choices and consequences.

Players assume the role of Thorton as he navigates through various missions across the globe, from bustling cities to remote locations, to uncover a global conspiracy threatening world stability. The game features a robust dialogue system that allows players to shape Thorton’s personality and relationships with other characters through their choices and actions. These choices have significant repercussions, influencing the game’s narrative direction, alliances, and outcomes.

In terms of gameplay, Alpha Protocol combines elements of stealth, combat, and role-playing. Players can approach missions using stealthy tactics, utilizing gadgets and espionage skills to evade enemies and accomplish objectives covertly, or engage in intense gunfights and hand-to-hand combat when stealth fails. The game features a deep progression system, allowing players to customize Thorton’s skills, abilities, and equipment to suit their preferred playstyle.

Despite receiving mixed reviews upon release, Alpha Protocol has garnered a cult following for its ambitious narrative design, branching storyline, and player agency. Its emphasis on player choice and consequence, along with its dynamic dialogue system, set it apart as a unique and memorable entry in the action RPG genre, offering players a captivating journey through the shadowy world of international espionage.

Asphalt Legends Unite – Official Teaser Trailer

The Asphalt Legends Unite trailer for the upcoming Asphalt 9: Legends expansion, coming to iOS, Android, PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PS4 (PlayStation 4), PS5 (PlayStation 5), and Nintendo Switch on July 17, 2024.

The celebrate this release, I decided to compile the Top 5 Exotic Sports car brands in the world. Did I get it right?

1. Ferrari: Synonymous with high-performance and luxury, Ferrari has a storied history in motorsport and produces some of the most sought-after exotic sports cars in the world, known for their breathtaking speed, precision handling, and iconic styling.

2. Lamborghini: Renowned for its bold and flamboyant designs, Lamborghini cars are celebrated for their aggressive styling, thunderous engines, and lightning-fast acceleration. The brand’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of automotive engineering has made it a favorite among enthusiasts.

3. Bugatti: With a focus on combining opulence with extreme performance, Bugatti produces some of the fastest and most exclusive cars on the planet. Models like the Veyron and Chiron are revered for their jaw-dropping speed, luxurious interiors, and meticulous attention to detail.

4. McLaren: Known for its Formula 1 heritage and cutting-edge technology, McLaren manufactures some of the most advanced and exhilarating sports cars on the market. From track-focused supercars to luxurious grand tourers, McLaren offers a diverse lineup that caters to enthusiasts seeking uncompromising performance.

5. Pagani: Exclusivity and craftsmanship define Pagani, a boutique Italian automaker renowned for its limited-production hypercars. Each Pagani model is a work of art, meticulously handcrafted with lightweight materials and powered by potent engines, resulting in a driving experience that is as exhilarating as it is exclusive.

The First Dune Game 32 Years Later: An LGR Retrospective

The reviews must flow! And the spicy subject here is the first computer game adaptation of Dune, made by Cryo Interactive and Virgin Games in 1992. Take control of Arrakis as Paul Muad’Dib Atreides, reclaiming spice mines from the evil Harkonnens and forming a Fremen army to dominate the planet! Early 90s MS-DOS game goodness.

The appeal of the Dune series lies in its richly imagined universe, complex characters, and thought-provoking themes. Set in a distant future where humanity has spread across the galaxy, the series explores intricate political intrigues, religious movements, and ecological concerns. Frank Herbert, the author, created a world where power struggles between noble houses, religious factions, and a mysterious order of navigators known as the Bene Gesserit drive the narrative forward. At the heart of the series is the desert planet of Arrakis, the only source of the valuable spice melange, which grants extended life and heightened awareness. The harsh desert landscape of Arrakis and its native Fremen inhabitants add layers of depth to the story, reflecting on themes of environmentalism, colonialism, and the human condition.

Moreover, the Dune series captivates readers with its exploration of complex characters and their moral dilemmas. From the conflicted protagonist Paul Atreides, who grapples with his destiny as a messianic figure, to the manipulative schemes of the power-hungry Baron Harkonnen, each character is multi-dimensional and morally ambiguous. The series delves into questions of power, religion, and the consequences of unchecked ambition. Herbert’s intricate world-building, philosophical musings, and intricate plot twists have made the Dune series a timeless classic, captivating generations of readers with its blend of epic storytelling and profound insights into the human psyche.

Star Wars: Dark Forces Remaster (2024) REVIEW

Nightdive Studios remastered the classic Star Wars Dark Forces game for modern consoles and PC, upgrading the graphics & music as well as including a bunch of developer behind the scenes content. Can they improve on one of the best Star Wars games ever made? Check out my review!
More info: https://www.nightdivestudios.com

“Star Wars: Dark Forces” stands as a seminal milestone in the realm of video game adaptations of the beloved science fiction franchise. Released in 1995 by LucasArts, this first-person shooter immersed players in the expansive Star Wars universe, offering a gripping narrative set within the Galactic Empire’s oppressive regime. Players assumed the role of Kyle Katarn, a skilled mercenary tasked with thwarting the sinister plans of the Empire, including the development of the dreaded Death Star. Through a combination of intense action sequences, intricate level design, and a richly crafted storyline, “Dark Forces” captivated audiences, earning widespread acclaim for its innovative gameplay mechanics and faithful adherence to the Star Wars mythos.

With its groundbreaking features, “Star Wars: Dark Forces” left an indelible mark on the gaming landscape, influencing subsequent titles in the genre and cementing its status as a classic. The game introduced players to an array of iconic Star Wars locales, from the industrial depths of Imperial bases to the sprawling expanses of alien worlds. Furthermore, its dynamic blend of exploration, puzzle-solving, and intense combat offered a multifaceted gaming experience that resonated with audiences of all ages. Even decades after its release, “Dark Forces” continues to hold a special place in the hearts of gamers, serving as a testament to the enduring power and cultural significance of the Star Wars franchise in the realm of interactive entertainment.

Ken and Roberta Williams Interview w/ Matt Barton (New for 2024)

Ken and Roberta Williams are the founders of Sierra On-Line, one of the most influential computer game developers and publishers of all time. Recently, the couple returned to their gaming roots with a 3D, AR-enabled version of the classic text adventure Colossal Cave.

Sierra On-Line was a powerhouse in the gaming industry throughout the 1980s and 1990s, known for producing some of the most iconic and influential adventure games of the era. One of their standout titles from the 1980s was “King’s Quest” (1984), a groundbreaking adventure game that introduced players to the fantastical world of Daventry and the daring adventures of King Graham. With its innovative use of graphics and text-based commands, “King’s Quest” offered players unprecedented freedom to explore its richly detailed environments and solve puzzles, setting a new standard for the adventure game genre. Its success spawned numerous sequels, each building upon the legacy of the original and further cementing Sierra’s reputation as a leader in interactive storytelling.

In the 1990s, Sierra continued to push the boundaries of gaming with titles like “Space Quest” (1986) and “Quest for Glory” (1989). “Space Quest” combined humor, science fiction, and adventure in a series of games following the hapless space janitor Roger Wilco as he stumbled his way through various interstellar misadventures. The series was known for its witty writing, colorful characters, and imaginative settings, earning it a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim. “Quest for Glory,” on the other hand, blended elements of traditional adventure games with role-playing mechanics, allowing players to create and develop their own character as they embarked on epic quests in the fantasy world of Gloriana. With its innovative approach to gameplay and rich narrative, “Quest for Glory” left a lasting impression on the gaming landscape and remains beloved by fans to this day. Overall, Sierra On-Line’s catalog of games from the 1980s and 1990s showcased the company’s pioneering spirit and commitment to pushing the boundaries of interactive storytelling, leaving an indelible mark on the history of gaming.

Star Wars: Battlefront Classic Collection Official Announcement Trailer

Star Wars Battlefront Classic Collection is coming to Xbox, Playstation, Switch and PC.

The appeal of the first two Star Wars Battlefront games lies in their immersive and action-packed gameplay set within the beloved Star Wars universe. Developed by Pandemic Studios and published by LucasArts, these games allowed players to engage in epic battles across iconic locations from the Star Wars films. Whether fighting on the forest moon of Endor, storming the beaches of Kashyyyk, or engaging in dogfights above the Death Star, the games captured the essence of the Star Wars saga and allowed fans to experience the thrill of being a part of the galactic conflict firsthand. The seamless integration of ground and space combat, along with the ability to play as various iconic characters and vehicles from the franchise, offered players a diverse and dynamic gameplay experience that kept them coming back for more.

Moreover, the first two Star Wars Battlefront games excelled in their attention to detail and faithful recreation of the Star Wars universe. From the authentic sound effects of blaster fire and lightsabers to the visually stunning landscapes and meticulously designed character models, the games immersed players in a galaxy far, far away like never before. The inclusion of single-player campaigns, multiplayer modes, and cooperative gameplay options ensured that there was something for every type of player, whether they wanted to embark on solo missions as a hero of the Rebellion or team up with friends to conquer the galaxy together. With its combination of thrilling gameplay, faithful representation of the source material, and ample content for fans to enjoy, the first two Star Wars Battlefront games remain beloved classics in the realm of Star Wars gaming.

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.

Restoring Sony’s first VAIO laptop! (1998)

Sony’s PCG-505 looks like a pretty typical late-90s laptop at first glance. But it actually had a big impact on the computer industry — you probably just didn’t realize it.

The Sony Vaio line of laptops, introduced by Sony Corporation in 1996, gained prominence for its sleek design, advanced technology, and premium build quality. Vaio, an acronym for “Video Audio Integrated Operation,” initially focused on multimedia capabilities, setting itself apart in the market. Over the years, Sony Vaio laptops became synonymous with cutting-edge innovation and a blend of form and function. The laptops featured vibrant displays, powerful processors, and high-quality audio, catering to users who sought a seamless multimedia experience. Sony Vaio laptops were particularly known for their distinctive design elements, such as the slim profile, metallic finishes, and backlit keyboards, contributing to their premium appeal.

Despite their initial success, Sony eventually sold its Vaio PC business in 2014 to a Japanese investment firm. The Vaio brand, however, continued to thrive under new ownership. The laptops retained their commitment to high-end performance and style, adapting to changing technological trends. The Sony Vaio line left a lasting legacy in the laptop industry, symbolizing a convergence of style and functionality, and paving the way for the premium laptop market to evolve.