Minecraft Xbox 360 Update 9 Full Changelog

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4J Studios has released the full changelog for Minecraft Xbox 360 update 9,with all new dragons and vines and buttons and sheep who regrow their wool, now that’s a cool sheep that regrow their wool for you.  The update is apparently now in certification testing with Microsoft, which means it should arrive in a week or two.

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– Added ‘The End’, with new layout, and new Enderdragon behaviour.

– Added Climbable Vines.

– Added Fire Charge, Wooden Button, Item Frames, Spawn Eggs, Sandstone Stairs, Spruce Stairs, Birch Stairs, Nether Bricks, Spruce Planks, Birch Planks, Nether Brick Slab, Spruce Slab and Birch Slab.

– Added new music for The End and The Nether from C418

– Made buckets and signs stackable.

– Sheep now re-grow their wool after shearing.

– New gravel texture.

– Can now smelt Netherrack into a Nether Brick in a Furnace.

– Blacksmith buildings in Villages now hold chests with loot of the same type as found in Strongholds.

– Crafting recipe change – Sign recipe gives three Signs.

– Crafting recipe change – Half Slab recipes give six Half Slabs.

– Crafting recipe change – Stone Button now requires one block of stone instead of two.

– Added smoother color transitions between biomes.

– Added beaches to terrain generation.

– Fence Gates can now be opened and closed with Redstone.

– Changed Nether Fortress to make Nether Wart rooms more likely.

– Made Nether Wart spawn randomly wherever Soul Sand is generated in the Nether.

– Nether Wart will now grow in the Overworld.

– Made Dispenser dispense mobs from Spawn Eggs, rather than the egg itself.

– Dispenser will dispense lava/water from a Bucket of Lava/Water.

– Dispenser will shoot Fire Charges.

– Trapdoors can be placed on half slabs and stairs

– Allow players to block with a sword when the ‘Can Build And Mine’ option is unchecked by the host.

– Moved six of the twelve music disc quests in the Tutorial World

– Changed the Tutorial world to add climbable Vines, and some of the new items, and removed/reduced the items in the Brewing, Farming and Breeding chests.

– Don’t show the achievements warning when loading a creative map that has already been saved in creative mode.

– Reduced the volume of the Ghast sound effects.

– Increased the distance jukeboxes can be heard from.

– Improved lighting code performance.

– Improved the loading/saving time.

– Changed the display order in the Minecraft Store to show newest DLC first.

– Added How To Play for The End and Farming Animals

– Added HUD size options for both splitscreen and full screen modes.

– Added Reset Nether option to force regeneration of The Nether. This is helpful for older saves that didn’t have a Nether Fortress.

– Added a toggle for Death Messages.

– Added a toggle to hide or display the animated character in the User Interface.

– Allow individual splitscreen users to have their own settings for HUD.

Battlefield 3 Premium Users To Be Get Battlefield 4 Beta Access

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It’s being reported that Battlefield 3 premium subscribers will all gain access to the Battlefield 4 beta when it launches later this year.

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The news comes via Russian Battlefield fan site MyBattlefield, which has posted the screen seen below from Origin Russia. Although in a different language you can see clearly on the right hand side of the picture the mention of Battlefield 4, with MP1st reporting the translation as “exclusive access to the beta version of Battlefield 4”.
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Currently the only way to have gained access to the beta was by having pre-ordered Medal of Honor: Warfighter before it launched last October.

Watch the first 30 minutes of BioShock Infinite

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In BioShock Infinite, you play Booker DeWitt, a former Pinkerton agent who is sent to the flying city of Columbia in 1912 to rescue a girl who has been imprisoned since childhood. He is not there by choice, he owes big on some debts and this is his last chance to make good on them.

So here is the first 30 minutes of gameplay, there are a few spoilers so watch at your own risk (and don’t forget to select HD quality for the best viewing experience):

And don’t forget to check out our BioShock Infinite preview. Our review will be up soon.

BioShock Infinite will be released on March 26th for the Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 and PC and looks to be one of the best games of the year so far.

Metro Last Light interview with Huw Beynon

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Metro Last Light will be available soon from Deep Silver and we recently got chance to talk with Huw Beynon about the game.

In the year 2034, a nuclear war has turned the world into a post-apocalyptic wasteland. In Moscow, the tunnels of the Metro have become a new home for the former inhabitants of the city. Within the catacombs, they fight for their survival, fending off hordes of hideous mutants born from the toxic atmosphere, as well as other factions desperate to take control of what little hospitable land remains. As they fight, they also search for a doomsday device that could be the key to their victory. A civil war is inevitable. During these dark hours, the players will embody Artyom, and become the last light for all of mankind.

The plot of Metro: Last Light was written by Dmitry Glukhovsky, acclaimed author of the novel Metro 2033 which inspired the creation of both video games. Also, Glukhovsky is responsible for all dialogues in Metro: Last Light. Glukhovskys novels Metro 2033 and Metro 2034 have sold more than 2.000.000 copies worldwide. In 2013, his latest book Metro 2035 will be also available outside of Russia.

Huw is the Global Brand Manager for Metro Last Light, so over to Huw:

For more information about Metro: Last Light, please visit www.enterthemetro.com.

Metro Last Light interview with Dmitry Glukhovsky

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Metro Last Light will be available soon from Deep Silver and we recently got chance to talk with Dmitry Glukhovsky about his books and about the game.

In the year 2034, a nuclear war has turned the world into a post-apocalyptic wasteland. In Moscow, the tunnels of the Metro have become a new home for the former inhabitants of the city. Within the catacombs, they fight for their survival, fending off hordes of hideous mutants born from the toxic atmosphere, as well as other factions desperate to take control of what little hospitable land remains. As they fight, they also search for a doomsday device that could be the key to their victory. A civil war is inevitable. During these dark hours, the players will embody Artyom, and become the last light for all of mankind.

The plot of Metro: Last Light was written by Dmitry Glukhovsky, acclaimed author of the novel Metro 2033 which inspired the creation of both video games. Also, Glukhovsky is responsible for all dialogues in Metro: Last Light. Glukhovskys novels Metro 2033 and Metro 2034 have sold more than 2.000.000 copies worldwide. In 2013, his latest book Metro 2035 will be also available outside of Russia.

So over to Dmitry:

For more information about Metro: Last Light, please visit www.enterthemetro.com.

Samsung announces NX300 UK availability in the UK

Samsung Electronics today announced that the NX300 will be commercially available in the UK at the end of March from John Lewis and Dixons.

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Samsung has expanded their NX line by adding the NX300, a one-lens system capable of capturing 1080P video and still shots in 2D and 3D.  This is a real looker of a camera, and with a 20.3 megapixel sensor, it should have the imaging chops to deliver.

Central to the NX300’s outstanding imaging performance is the brand new 20.3 Megapixel APS-CMOS sensor, capable of capturing high quality detailed images with sharp, life-like colors that are crisp and clear in all light conditions. The wide ISO range (ISO100-25600) further improves performance, letting users capture beautifully balanced images in even the darkest conditions. A brand new Hybrid Auto Focus (AF) system also delivers fast, accurate phase and contrast detection, while the 1/6000 sec shutter speed and 8.6fps continuous shooting mode ensure you never miss a moment.

Samsung’s unique in-house developed DRIMe IV imaging engine provides outstanding developments in speed, and image quality enabling better color reproduction and greater noise reduction, as well as support for full 1080p HD video capture in both 2D and 3D (when combined with Samsung’s new 45mm 2D/3D lens).

The NX300’s 84mm (3.31”) AMOLED screen makes capturing and reviewing your images a pleasure, while the hybrid touch screen and 5-way manual key interface is simple and intuitive to use. The tilt display makes it easier than ever to take high and low angle shots, letting you capture your world from any angle you choose.

The compact NX300 makes it simple for anyone to achieve pro-like and impressive pictures easily with minimal technical knowledge or time spent adjusting parameters. Using the camera’s Smart Mode, users can choose from 14 different settings, such as Creative Shot, Landscape, Light Trace or Action Freeze which will automatically adjust parameters such as aperture and shutter speed in order to obtain the best shot possible for the desired situation. The NX300 also includes i-Depth, an easy and simple way to adjust the depth of an image using the NX Series’ unique i-Function system, which enables users to modify camera parameters using the lens itself, adjusting the image without ever having to move off target.

The NX acclaimed design returns with the NX300 sporting a stylish yet simple retro feel that is available in either black or white with a contrast silver band, conveying elegance and authenticity.

The NX300’s Wi-Fi connectivity of Smart Camera allows users to share their cherished photos instantly and securely between their camera and smartphone (or tablet). To connect a smartphone to the camera, users simply need to download the Samsung Smart Camera App., which is available for both Android and iOS based application markets, onto their smartphone or tablet and follow the easy steps to create a secure connection with the camera. The NX300 will be able to detect and auto-connect to the smartphone wirelessly whenever any of the Smart Camera features are activated. These include AutoShare; which automatically sends high-quality pho os to your smart phone for safe keeping, and Mobile Link; which allows users to select and transfer images or album from the camera directly to your smartphone at their leisure. The Smart Camera App. also features a Remote Viewfinder function for the NX300, allowing for even more inventive and exciting photography.

The NX300’s enhanced Wi-Fi connectivity also lets users share images with friends and family directly from the camera via social networking sites using the cameras one-touch DIRECT LINK hot key. Alternatively, images can be automatically backed up or stored in the cloud through AllShare Play ensuring they are always safe and easily accessible.

The Samsung 45mm 2D/3D lens (sold separately) opens up an exciting world of 3D imaging possibilities and is the world’s first one-lens 3D system for a consumer camera. Capable of capturing both still pictures and full 1080p HD video, the Samsung NX300 and 45mm 2D/3D lens kit have become the only compact system camera supporting both 3D still and 3D movie. The NX300 is also compatible with Samsung’s entire range of NX lenses and professional standard accessories, giving users an unparalleled range of options when striving for that perfect shot.

God of War: Ascension gets updated to version 1.03

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Santa Monica Studio have updated God of War: Ascension by releasing patch 1.03.

You will be prompted to download the latest update. This update addresses 2 single-player issues.

Don’t forget to check out our God of War: Ascension review and also our exclusive interview with Santa Monica Studio.

Are you playing God of War: Ascension? Let us know by leaving a comment below.

Windows Blue Leak Offers New UI Info

Microsoft’s Windows Blue operating system has leaked online as an early build, hinting at new features for the upcoming Windows 8 update.

The leak comes from an early version called build 9364 of Windows Blue, and was spotted on the Polish Winforum site by The Verge.

Build 9364 shows new customisation options, including both smaller and larger Live Tile sizes and greater colour personalisation.

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It also introduces a 50-50 screen split for the app snapping feature, where the screen is split evenly between two apps.

There are also allegedly updates to the settings menus, providing more robust settings so that tablet users do not have to enter the desktop mode to adjust system settings.

Other changes include new Windows 8-style apps for a calculator, sound recorder and alarm. There are also new ‘play’ and screenshot options in the Charm menu. An icon for Internet Explorer 11 also appeared in the leaked build, though no other details about the new browser were revealed.

Microsoft is understood to be planning to shift Windows to more regular updates than the current three-year cycle of new releases, such as with Windows 7 in 2009 to Windows 8 last year. Previous reports have said that Windows Blue would launch in mid-2013, but the names Windows 8 and Windows Phone 8 will most likely remain in use, as Blue is thought to be an internal branding.

Linksys EA6500 Router Review Part One: Installation

Linksys sent over an AC router for review, the EA6500.  This is the first part of my review, where I walk you through the installation process.  Read on for details!

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Linksys sent over an AC router for review, the EA6500.  This is the first part of my review, where I walk you through the installation process.  The AC standard is the newest development in routers, and promises better bandwidth that N routers.  However, since that speed happens on the 5GHz band, it remains to be seen if these higher-speed connections will have the range to be useful in the average home.  In addition to the router, they also sent an AC wireless bridge media connector device to enable me to test out AC speeds in a real-world environment.  Today’s post will cover basic installation of the router.

Let’s start out with Linksys’ description of the product.

Ideal for:

  • Networking large, multi-room homes and home theaters
  • Streaming HD video, music and large files at fast speeds
  • Connecting multiple users and devices-TVs, Blu-ray players, game consoles and tablets
  • Simultaneously accessing and sharing stored USB content and a USB printer
  • Optimising your home network with mobile apps

Features:

  • Latest Draft 802.11ac wireless technology
  • Backwards compatible with 802.11a/b/g/n devices
  • Simultaneous Dual-Band with speeds up to 450 + 1300 Mbps
  • SpeedBoost™ technology
  • Gigabit Ethernet Ports
  • 2 USB ports and integrated DLNA Certified™ Media Server
  • 3D antenna array allows for wall mounted or table top display
  • SimpleTap™ simplifies connecting devices
  • Optional cloud platform that enables remote access and mobile apps to manage your home network

Here’s a good video from Linksys that gives you a good look at some of the features.

And take a look at these product shots.

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Now onto the installation!

Hardware Installation

Set the router up by plugging it into your modem, connecting any devices directly and then powering up the router. Insert the installation disc.

My PC did not auto-start, so I navigated to the disc drive, opened up the install disc and clicked on Setup to start the process. Click through any security warning.

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Headphone Review: RHA SA950i

British audio firm RHA recently sent us one of their RHA SA950i headphones to review.  Read on for details!

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British audio firm RHA recently sent us one of their RHA SA950i headphones to review.  These are budget headphones that focus on delivering decent sound without some of the bells and whistles that some of the pricier units come with.  Let’s see how they did!

Before I begin here, I wanted to highlight that three other people helped me to demonstrate these headphones: my daughter, my wife and my daughter’s college-age babysitter.  A special thanks to all three for helping out!

Company Information

RHA is based in Glasgow, Scotland in the UK.  Here is what they say about themselves on their website:

RHA

A division of Reid Heath Ltd.

We create unique, high specification audio products, designed and engineered at our research and development centre in Glasgow, UK.

Everything we make is engineered to deliver professional grade, cutting edge sound. Each feature, detail and component is the result of extensive research and our uncompromising commitment to innovation and quality.

Product Information

The SA950i MSRP’s for about $60, placing it firmly in the budget headphone category when compared with products such as the Beats Solo.  Here is what RHA says about the SA950i:

SA950i – Professional audio from compact, lightweight headphones with remote and microphones

Featuring technologies more commonly found in full-sized studio equipment, the SA950i delivers professional-grade audio in a compact supra-aural design.

  • 40mm titanium-coated mylar drivers
  • Single detachable fabric braided cable helps eliminates tangling and prolongs cable life
  • iPhone/iPod/iPad remote and microphone
  • Adjustable chrome sliders for secure and comfortable fit
  • Gold plated connections maximise contact efficiency
  • Neodymium magnet and CCAW voice coils
  • Lightweight at just 105g

Engineered to produce studio quality sound in a portable unit, the SA950i utilises 40mm titanium-coated drivers and powerful neodymium magnets to reproduce the full audio spectrum with fidelity and precision. The headphones deliver a full and balanced sound complete with textured bass and outstanding clarity through the mid and high frequencies. A lightweight headband, adjustable chrome sliders and padded contour-forming ear pads allow for long-wearing listening comfort.
A 1.5m shielded detachable cable prevents common connection problems and offers freedom to disconnect quickly and easily. The fabric braiding produces less friction than a normal rubber cable which helps reduce tangling, prolonging cable life.
The ultra-portable design comes with an inline remote and mic featuring multi-click control over call, music and volume functions on your Apple device.*

40mm professional grade mylar drivers are micro-coated in titanium. This gives the drivers precision and ultra-fast response times …

The inline remote and mic features multi-click control over calls, music and volume on your Apple device*. Call answering and play/pause functions for music is supported on Android and other smartphone platforms.
*view compatibility

Here are the product specifications:

Specifications

Drivers 40mm Titanium mylar
Frequency range 16-22,000Hz
Impedance 32ohms
Sensitivity 113dB
Rated/max power 30/100mW
Height 185 mm
Width 145 mm
Depth 65 mm
Weight 105g
Cable 1.5m Fabric braided
Connections 3.5mm Gold plated