James Woodcock's Podcast

I am joined by Aaron Fothergill previously from Argonaut Games and now with Shifty Eye Games , Martin Mulrooney of Alternative Magazine Online and Karl from Retro32 as we discuss more gaming, gadgets and technology both retro and modern.

Topics include:

What is BBS and how was it used?

BBS today on the Amiga

The joys and sounds of dial up internet and blocking for Grandmothers

Piracy software and the effects on development and livelihoods

Funny copy protection at level 10

Jetstrike release version not the final and included a serious bug

Jetstrike game featured Aliens “one in a million” chance though of seeing them!

How did we all use our first connections to the Internet?

The success of iTunes and iTunes Match against mp3 piracy

Broken Sword Reforged and AI as a tool

Our fondness of Tomb Raider 1-3 Remastered and its intentional limitations

How what is acceptable has changed over the years

Early gameplay mechanics

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WEBSITE: Pixel Refresh – Gaming, Gadgets & Tech both Retro & Modern
EMAIL SUBSCRIBE: Latest Articles / Reviews via Email
PIXEL REFRESH YOUTUBE CHANNEL: Pixel Refresh on YouTube
FREE GAME SOUNDTRACKS: ScummVM Music Enhancement Project

I am joined by Tony Warriner who is one of the founders of Revolution Software and Karl from Retro32 as we discuss more gaming, gadgets and technology both retro and modern.

Topics include:

James’ experiences with emulator Gotek floppy drives for retro computers and the Atari 520 STFM

Tony’s experience of the Anbernic portable handheld RG35XX Plus

Challenges faced when updating the Anbernic device

Using original gaming hardware versus FPGA

Keeping retro computers and consoles alive

Discussion on the financial aspects of retro gaming, accessories and their cost

ScummVM now officially available on the Apple App Store

Various handheld devices for portable emulation

So many ‘mini’ devices bringing back our retro memories

The challenge of shipping a Steam Deck to Ukraine (the update)

Super Amigas?

How long would you need to learn to become a developer!

Tony’s new game demo coming soon…

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WEBSITE: Pixel Refresh – Gaming, Gadgets & Tech both Retro & Modern
EMAIL SUBSCRIBE: Latest Articles / Reviews via Email
PIXEL REFRESH YOUTUBE CHANNEL: Pixel Refresh on YouTube
FREE GAME SOUNDTRACKS: ScummVM Music Enhancement Project

I am joined by Tony Warriner  who is one of the founders of Revolution Software as we discuss more gaming, gadgets and technology both retro and modern.

Topics include:

James & Tony meeting in person for the very first time!

Crash Live 2023 Sinclair Spectrum event experiences

ZX Spectrum Vs C64 banter

ZX Spectrum Next explored

How to program the Z80 book

Tony is using Windows 11… We checked! (the dedicated macOS enthusiast)

Tony and Charles Cecil presenting at Crash Live 2023 regarding Artic Games / Revolution Software

Porting games in the 8-bit / 16-bit era

Mister FPGA Vs real hardware

The RG35XX and RG35XX Plus portable handheld consoles experiences

It’s difficult to send a Steam Deck to Kiev

What Tony is going to do with his ZX Spectrum Next for programming

Tony’s new game Wormhole Dungeon

What platforms could be targeted?

Remembering the SEGA Dreamcast

Broken Sword Reforged Kickstarter open for registration

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FIND OUT MORE: What is the Game & Gadget Podcast

WEBSITE: Pixel Refresh – Gaming, Gadgets & Tech both Retro & Modern
EMAIL SUBSCRIBE: Latest Articles / Reviews via Email
PIXEL REFRESH YOUTUBE CHANNEL: Pixel Refresh on YouTube
FREE GAME SOUNDTRACKS: ScummVM Music Enhancement Project

I am joined by Tony Warriner who is one of the founders of Revolution Software and Aaron Fothergill previously from Argonaut Games and now with Shifty Eye Games as we discuss more gaming, gadgets and technology both retro and modern.

Topics include:

The engineering conundrum of granny squares

You don’t have to be an expert in the field to write a game about a particular topic

Tony appears on more panels

Retro computers & consoles and inspiring the young

Unity Engine going downhill

The craziness of gaming marketing and advertising

The beauty of Apple skeuomorphism before iOS 7

Every operating system goes partially transparent

MacBook Pro 2015 craziness of design – goodbye ports, hello dongles

Collecting old phones and the battery bulging dangers

James gets himself another Commodore 64

The similarity of technology used on older retro computers

Disks surviving, discs rotting

Tony’s Amstrad CPC fixed and working

The loudness of 52x CD-ROM drives – spin spin spin!

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SUPPORT THE SHOW: Donate to the Game & Gadget Podcast & Pixel Refresh
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FIND OUT MORE: What is the Game & Gadget Podcast

WEBSITE: Pixel Refresh – Gaming, Gadgets & Tech both Retro & Modern
EMAIL SUBSCRIBE: Latest Articles / Reviews via Email
PIXEL REFRESH YOUTUBE CHANNEL: Pixel Refresh on YouTube
FREE GAME SOUNDTRACKS: ScummVM Music Enhancement Project

I am joined by Tony Warriner  who is one of the founders of Revolution Software as we discuss more gaming, gadgets and technology both retro and modern.

Topics include:

 Tony has been on an event panel and another to follow with Charles Cecil of Revolution Software

 The Acorn Electron bargain £20 spend

 So many 8-bit computers that didn’t make it!

 Storing computers is harder than consoles!

 Tony’s 8-bit computer collection

 Collecting original retro computer boxes and using modern replicas 

 The Enterprise computer that failed

 Real Amiga with PiStorm and a Raspberry Pi makes your CPU stupid fast!

 All the versions of the Atari ST

 The true joy of programming for the Motorola 68000

 Tony wanting to write an Amiga game in the future

 Programming between the different 16-bit computers

 Broken Sword Reforged using AI and ‘real’ artists to increase the visual detail

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SUPPORT THE SHOW: Donate to the Game & Gadget Podcast & Pixel Refresh
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FIND OUT MORE: What is the Game & Gadget Podcast

WEBSITE: Pixel Refresh – Gaming, Gadgets & Tech both Retro & Modern
EMAIL SUBSCRIBE: Latest Articles / Reviews via Email
PIXEL REFRESH YOUTUBE CHANNEL: Pixel Refresh on YouTube
FREE GAME SOUNDTRACKS: ScummVM Music Enhancement Project

I am joined by Aaron Fothergill previously from Argonaut Games and now with Shifty Eye Games , Steve Ince who is an artist, game designer and writer working on games from Revolution Software such as Broken Sword and also a new guest to our podcast Rees from YouTube channel ctrl-alt-rees as we discuss more gaming, gadgets and technology both retro and modern.

Topics include:

Steve Ince discusses his retirement from gaming work

What games Steve has been playing now he has a little more time

Steve releasing yet more books!

The pain of the developer crunch time

Life as ctrl-alt-rees and his fascination with Atari

Atari ST and the MIDI capabilities

Computers for homework *cough* games!

Homework on an Acorn Archimedes A3010 and dot matrix printers

Atari ST and 32 person strong multiplayer games with MIDI connections

The horror when you realise what you have thrown away, and then it becomes valuable

Steve’s computer journey

Taking a high quality scan, reducing to 128 colours for PC, reducing to 32 colours for Amiga

A changing colour pixel for a convincing ‘blink’

Broken Sword on the Nintendo Wii

Rise of the Triads and the music of Lee Jackson

The ever growing retro community

Robin Williams suing Disney and the risk of the colour blue

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SUPPORT THE SHOW: Donate to the Game & Gadget Podcast & Pixel Refresh
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FIND OUT MORE: What is the Game & Gadget Podcast

WEBSITE: Pixel Refresh – Gaming, Gadgets & Tech both Retro & Modern
EMAIL SUBSCRIBE: Latest Articles / Reviews via Email
PIXEL REFRESH YOUTUBE CHANNEL: Pixel Refresh on YouTube
FREE GAME SOUNDTRACKS: ScummVM Music Enhancement Project

I am joined by Tony Warriner  who is one of the founders of Revolution Software and Aaron Fothergill previously from Argonaut Games and now with Shifty Eye Games as we discuss more gaming, gadgets and technology both retro and modern.

Topics include:

Atari Jaguar – 64-bit development issues with Tom & Jerry chips

Threading commands with the Atari Jaguar

Nintendo Wii U naming failure

Nintendo Switch and Valve Steam Deck

Folding smartphones and remembering the Motorola V3i and WAP

Beyond smartphones, the Apple Vision Pro?

3D cinema with custom 2D glasses

3D televisions dead, but 3D movies still being released

Disney+ IMAX and the 4K Blu-ray disks NOT always including premium features (Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Vision etc)

Streaming services licence issues, content removed

The Orville, more Star Trek than Star Trek

The wonders of Plex

Couldn’t even playback an MP3 music file without stuttering on a 486 PC

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FIND OUT MORE: What is the Game & Gadget Podcast

WEBSITE: Pixel Refresh – Gaming, Gadgets & Tech both Retro & Modern
EMAIL SUBSCRIBE: Latest Articles / Reviews via Email
PIXEL REFRESH YOUTUBE CHANNEL: Pixel Refresh on YouTube
FREE GAME SOUNDTRACKS: ScummVM Music Enhancement Project

I am joined by Tony Warriner who is one of the founders of Revolution Software as we discuss more gaming, gadgets and technology both retro and modern.

Topics include:

Image generation with A.I. is scary good

A.I. is a replicant?

A.I. introduces James Woodcock

A.I. introduces Tony Warriner

Who is Steve Warriner? Tony wishes he knew!

The A.I. risk to copywriters

The A.I. risk to artists and copyright

The benefits of Artificial Intelligence

Using A.I. to make appointments

Creating a coffee drinking squirrel

Voice assistants that simply don’t understand

Tony’s book on the history of Revolution Software updates

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SUPPORT THE SHOW: Donate to the Game & Gadget Podcast & Pixel Refresh
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FIND OUT MORE: What is the Game & Gadget Podcast

WEBSITE: Pixel Refresh – Gaming, Gadgets & Tech both Retro & Modern
EMAIL SUBSCRIBE: Latest Articles / Reviews via Email
PIXEL REFRESH YOUTUBE CHANNEL: Pixel Refresh on YouTube
FREE GAME SOUNDTRACKS: ScummVM Music Enhancement Project

I am joined by Tony Warriner who is one of the founders of Revolution Software  and Steve Ince who is an artist, game designer and writer working on games from Revolution Software such as Broken Sword as we discuss more gaming, gadgets and technology both retro and modern.

Topics include:

James acquiring the Mattel Electronics Intellivision Console and games

The Intellivision voice synthesis add-on

The joy of cartridges compared against cassette, floppy disk and more

Tony states “You could do a great game with 48K”

The juggling of switching multiple floppy disks for a single game

Why did James get a PC? To play the “talkie” version of Simon the Sorcerer!

Select, menu and adjust – remembering the Acorn Archimedes A3010

Steve explains how he managed the audio recordings for Beneath a Steel Sky “talkie” version

Characters with accents?

Discworld and the famous actors who did the many voices including ‘Jon’ Pertwee

How Broken Sword music and voice cast influenced the story of the sequel

The different voices of Nico Collard in Broken Sword

Directing the voice cast and whether any of us can act!

The easter eggs Tony and Steve have snuck into their games

Piracy… the voice of pirates

Classic TV, the good and mostly the bad

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SUPPORT THE SHOW: Donate to the Game & Gadget Podcast & Pixel Refresh
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FIND OUT MORE: What is the Game & Gadget Podcast

WEBSITE: Pixel Refresh – Gaming, Gadgets & Tech both Retro & Modern
EMAIL SUBSCRIBE: Latest Articles / Reviews via Email
PIXEL REFRESH YOUTUBE CHANNEL: Pixel Refresh on YouTube
FREE GAME SOUNDTRACKS: ScummVM Music Enhancement Project

I am joined by Jan Hofmeister , who has spent years restoring for free, in particular point and click adventure game box art and posters – creating stunning print quality tributes to these classic titles. Titles from Lucas Arts, Adventure Soft and more in beautiful high quality using a variety of assets from the original box art, magazine full-page spreads, manuals and more.

Although the audio version of the podcast is still available, this is very much a visual presentation as Jan takes us through a selection of his work and details for the first time the processes and applications he uses for these restorations.

Topics include:

How Jan became interested in restoring game box art and posters

Jan’s fascination with Lucas Arts point and click adventure games

The early days with the Commodore 128 and Maniac Mansion

How it became a hobby and a skill

The influence of Jurassic Park in computer graphics

Restoration of Zak McKracken and the Alien Mindbenders process demonstrated

Restoration of The Secret of Monkey Island process demonstrated

Restoration of Indiana Jones and the Infernal Machine process demonstrated

Restoration of The Curse of Monkey Island up close

Restoration of Simon the Sorcerer up close

Jan’s work on the cover of Back to the Future: The Game

The sad side of Jan’s restoration efforts

How you can support Jan’s work

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SUPPORT THE SHOW: Donate to the Game & Gadget Podcast & Pixel Refresh
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FIND OUT MORE: What is the Game & Gadget Podcast

WEBSITE: Pixel Refresh – Gaming, Gadgets & Tech both Retro & Modern
EMAIL SUBSCRIBE: Latest Articles / Reviews via Email
PIXEL REFRESH YOUTUBE CHANNEL: Pixel Refresh on YouTube
FREE GAME SOUNDTRACKS: ScummVM Music Enhancement Project

I am joined by Tony Warriner  who is one of the founders of Revolution Software as we discuss more gaming, gadgets and technology both retro and modern.

Topics include:

What technology did Santa bring us in 2022?

Remembering dedicated sound cards

The loss of the headphone port on phones and tablets

The 486 CPU TURBO mode switch

Swapping through multiple floppy disks in games

Broken Sword 3 and the 3D engine

James’ Christmas Eve process or bringing out retro tech before the new stuff comes along

Tony still loves his ‘portable’ Steam Deck

Missing a Sony portable gaming device

Sony trying to rule the world with countless storage formats they created

3D televisions and cinema and its failure

Modern VR and the Metaverse

Mastodon and its recent success

The hunt for alternative social media services

Movie and TV subscriptions services, we lost the leave cable / satellite dream

The joys of Plex

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SUPPORT THE SHOW: Donate to the Game & Gadget Podcast & Pixel Refresh
SUBMIT QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW: Submit a question for the Game & Gadget Podcast
FIND OUT MORE: What is the Game & Gadget Podcast

WEBSITE: Pixel Refresh – Gaming, Gadgets & Tech both Retro & Modern
EMAIL SUBSCRIBE: Latest Articles / Reviews via Email
PIXEL REFRESH YOUTUBE CHANNEL: Pixel Refresh on YouTube
FREE GAME SOUNDTRACKS: ScummVM Music Enhancement Project

I am joined by Steve Ince who is an artist, game designer and writer working on games from Revolution Software such as Broken Sword and Aaron Fothergill  previously from Argonaut Games and now with Shifty Eye Games as we discuss more gaming, gadgets and technology both retro and modern.

Topics include:

Steve Ince’s 201 Things for Better Game Writing book

Steve’s entrance to writing for games

Questioning the writing quality of Willow and The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power

Original Xbox Live is back with Insignia

Midtown Madness 3 on Xbox Live

Atari Jaguar Emulation with BigPEmu featuring 100% compatibility

The brands that still exist, but do they really?

SEGA and the success with Sumo Digital

So many sequels and digital de-aging

AI writing, some examples better than others

The craziness of Twitter and James moving to Mastodon

Remember Friends Reunited?

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SUPPORT THE SHOW: Donate to the Game & Gadget Podcast & Pixel Refresh
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FIND OUT MORE: What is the Game & Gadget Podcast

WEBSITE: Pixel Refresh – Gaming, Gadgets & Tech both Retro & Modern
EMAIL SUBSCRIBE: Latest Articles / Reviews via Email
PIXEL REFRESH YOUTUBE CHANNEL: Pixel Refresh on YouTube
FREE GAME SOUNDTRACKS: ScummVM Music Enhancement Project

I am joined by Tony Warriner who is one of the founders of Revolution Software and Aaron Fothergill  previously from Argonaut Games and now with Shifty Eye Games as we discuss more gaming, gadgets and technology both retro and modern.

Topics include:

Tony’s ‘Revolution: The Quest for Game Development Greatness ‘ book passed its goal on Kickstarter

Our experience and love of the arcade

The addiction and gameplay style of the arcade to get you hooked

Why the arcade typically had just 3 characters for your name / initials

The virtual on-screen keyboard for signing into TV apps – yuck

Not playing too much online gaming and then getting a chance only to die over and over again

Early VR headsets, cardboard VR and modern VR

The Xbox 360 Live Vision camera

Using your face likeness on the Xbox 360

What games we have been playing

How 16-bit games captured James’ imagination

AI generated pixel art

Tony’s new game is no longer a Shmup

Xbox Live vision camera with my scanned face in Rainbow Six

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SUPPORT THE SHOW: Donate to the Game & Gadget Podcast & Pixel Refresh
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FIND OUT MORE: What is the Game & Gadget Podcast

WEBSITE: Pixel Refresh – Gaming, Gadgets & Tech both Retro & Modern
EMAIL SUBSCRIBE: Latest Articles / Reviews via Email
PIXEL REFRESH YOUTUBE CHANNEL: Pixel Refresh on YouTube
FREE GAME SOUNDTRACKS: ScummVM Music Enhancement Project

In this special interview edition Game & Gadget Podcast, I am joined by authors Tony Warriner co-founder of Revolution Software and Martin Mulrooney of Alternative Magazine Online as we discuss their new book which has featured on Kickstarter recently titled Revolution: The Quest for Game Development Greatness. The story of Revolution Software, best known for their point and click adventure games as told by Tony Warriner, one of its original founders.

Their Kickstarter was funded within just 4 days of its launch, reaching their £8,000 goal in style.

Written by Tony Warriner, employee number one and co-founder of Revolution Software, with a foreword by Charles Cecil, this epic book tells the untold behind-the-scenes story of this much-loved game developer. Ten years on from the hugely successful Broken Sword 5 Kickstarter, Tony is back for another wild ride with this highly personal account of Revolution’s rise from the 1980s 8-bit gaming scene.

Revolution: The Quest for Game Development Greatness Kickstarter

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SUPPORT THE SHOW: Donate to the Game & Gadget Podcast & Pixel Refresh
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FIND OUT MORE: What is the Game & Gadget Podcast

WEBSITE: Pixel Refresh – Gaming, Gadgets & Tech both Retro & Modern
EMAIL SUBSCRIBE: Latest Articles / Reviews via Email
PIXEL REFRESH YOUTUBE CHANNEL: Pixel Refresh on YouTube
FREE GAME SOUNDTRACKS: ScummVM Music Enhancement Project

I am joined by Tony Warriner who is one of the founders of Revolution Software and Aaron Fothergill  previously from Argonaut Games and now with Shifty Eye Games as we discuss more gaming, gadgets and technology both retro and modern.

Topics include:

Portable gaming with the Steam Deck

Xbox Game Pass Ultimate Subscription

Cloud gaming to try a game before you download it

Games pushing you to register an email address even on console

Developing for the failed Gizmondo portable

The range of portable consoles

James’ love for the Nintendo 3DS, even over the Switch

Gaming world record speed runs spectacle and admiration

Playing games to feel like the hero

Dragon’s Lair and Space Ace gaming visual amazement, but limited gameplay

Space Ace game on Blu-ray

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SUPPORT THE SHOW: Donate to the Game & Gadget Podcast & Pixel Refresh
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FIND OUT MORE: What is the Game & Gadget Podcast

WEBSITE: Pixel Refresh – Gaming, Gadgets & Tech both Retro & Modern
EMAIL SUBSCRIBE: Latest Articles / Reviews via Email
PIXEL REFRESH YOUTUBE CHANNEL: Pixel Refresh on YouTube
FREE GAME SOUNDTRACKS: ScummVM Music Enhancement Project

I am joined by Tony Warriner who is one of the founders of Revolution Software as we discuss more gaming, gadgets and technology both retro and modern.

Topics include:

Scorching 40 degree UK heatwave (we just aren’t used to it!)

iPad Pro Stage Manager

Beneath a Steel Sky development for the original iPad

Dolby Atmos music, DVD Audio and Super Audio CD

Spatial Audio head tracking

Tony and his history of Revolution Software book nearing completion

Creating a Kickstarter

The number of camera’s as you walk around

Buying magazines just for the demos and full games

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SUPPORT THE SHOW: Donate to the Game & Gadget Podcast & Pixel Refresh
SUBMIT QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW: Submit a question for the Game & Gadget Podcast
FIND OUT MORE: What is the Game & Gadget Podcast

WEBSITE: Pixel Refresh – Gaming, Gadgets & Tech both Retro & Modern
EMAIL SUBSCRIBE: Latest Articles / Reviews via Email
PIXEL REFRESH YOUTUBE CHANNEL: Pixel Refresh on YouTube
FREE GAME SOUNDTRACKS: ScummVM Music Enhancement Project

I am joined by Tony Warriner who is one of the founders of Revolution Software ,  Aaron Fothergill  previously from Argonaut Games and now with Shifty Eye Games and Stoo Cambridge known for his pixel artwork for Cannon Fodder and other titles from Sensible Software as we discuss more gaming, gadgets and technology both retro and modern.

Topics include:

The iPad Pro 5th Generation experience

The Logitech Combo Keyboard for the iPad Pro

Video editing on the iPad Pro surprisingly great, up to a point

The Post PC Era with the iPad Pro, or is it?

iPad prototype experiences

iOS apps on macOS

Should macOS be able to run natively on the iPad Pro?

Creating pixel artwork on retro and modern devices

Pixel art… with a joystick!

How many monitors is too many monitors?

Aircraft control, 4-bit fun

Broken Sword 3 and the transition to using 3D

Text based adventure games

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SUPPORT THE SHOW: Donate to the Game & Gadget Podcast & Pixel Refresh
SUBMIT QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW: Submit a question for the Game & Gadget Podcast
FIND OUT MORE: What is the Game & Gadget Podcast

WEBSITE: Pixel Refresh – Gaming, Gadgets & Tech both Retro & Modern
EMAIL SUBSCRIBE: Latest Articles / Reviews via Email
PIXEL REFRESH YOUTUBE CHANNEL: Pixel Refresh on YouTube
FREE GAME SOUNDTRACKS: ScummVM Music Enhancement Project

I am joined by Tony Warriner who is one of the founders of Revolution Software ,  Aaron Fothergill  previously from Argonaut Games and now with Shifty Eye Games and Stoo Cambridge known for his pixel artwork for Cannon Fodder and other titles from Sensible Software as we discuss more gaming, gadgets and technology both retro and modern.

Topics include:

The artwork design concepts of Cannon Fodder

Cannon Fodder moving from Amiga to other platforms not always respectful to original artwork

How we would love a Cannon Fodder Remaster, come on Codemasters

Cannon Fodder, heroic yet emotional devastating

Is there still an environment to truly create something new in gaming?

Sonic Mania respecting the beauty of the originals

The Roland MT-32, Adlib FM and Amiga/Acorn Module music

The amazing Commodore 64 SID chip

The CD32 quirks and oddities

Trying to find original CD32 games at reasonable prices

Did the cartridge outstay its welcome?

Sony PlayStation development hardware power overloads

Tony using Unity for his new game

The Commodore 64 loading screens with that music!

Education system originally pushing people away from computer careers

The logo Stoo Cambridge created for Pixel Refresh

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SUPPORT THE SHOW: Donate to the Game & Gadget Podcast & Pixel Refresh
SUBMIT QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW: Submit a question for the Game & Gadget Podcast
FIND OUT MORE: What is the Game & Gadget Podcast

WEBSITE: Pixel Refresh – Gaming, Gadgets & Tech both Retro & Modern
EMAIL SUBSCRIBE: Latest Articles / Reviews via Email
PIXEL REFRESH YOUTUBE CHANNEL: Pixel Refresh on YouTube
FREE GAME SOUNDTRACKS: ScummVM Music Enhancement Project

I am joined by Tony Warriner who is one of the founders of Revolution Software as we discuss more gaming, gadgets and technology both retro and modern.

Topics include:

Finding the perfect music streaming service mission impossible

Lossless music revolution for audio music streaming

Transferring music library from Spotify to Apple Music

Vinyl digitally remastered

Watching classic movies from 1938 onwards…

Too many video streaming services?

4K Blu-ray verses buying movies online to stream

Microsoft and Sony rush to buy game studios

Broken Sword on the Gameboy Advance

Broken Sword 2 was so nearly completed for release on the Gameboy Advance!

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SUPPORT THE SHOW: Donate to the Game & Gadget Podcast & Pixel Refresh
SUBMIT QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW: Submit a question for the Game & Gadget Podcast
FIND OUT MORE: What is the Game & Gadget Podcast

WEBSITE: Pixel Refresh – Gaming, Gadgets & Tech both Retro & Modern
EMAIL SUBSCRIBE: Latest Articles / Reviews via Email
PIXEL REFRESH YOUTUBE CHANNEL: Pixel Refresh on YouTube
FREE GAME SOUNDTRACKS: ScummVM Music Enhancement Project

I am joined by Tony Warriner who is one of the founders of Revolution Software as we discuss more gaming, gadgets and technology both retro and modern.

Topics include:

The influence of Double Fine on Kickstarter videos

How without mobile phones, we took less photos

Xbox celebrates 20th anniversary

Why James’ pre-ordered an original Xbox

The beauty of Doom

Our loathing of typical Free to Play gaming

Tony’s experience with Apple App Store requirements

Typing in game code from magazines isn’t dead

The joy of the Commodore 64

The weird Xbox 360 developer hardware unveiling Tony witnessed

James’ review of Broken Sword 3 on the original Xbox, read to one of the developers live!

Original Xbox built-in hard drive advantages

CD-ROM speed advantages and disadvantages

Broken Sword 3 and 4 dreaming of remasters

Grand Theft Auto remasters… oh dear!

Imagining the Simon the Sorcerer interface remastered

Open Source software when used commercially

Beneath a Steel Sky on Android exists… sort of

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SUPPORT THE SHOW: Donate to the Game & Gadget Podcast & Pixel Refresh
SUBMIT QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW: Submit a question for the Game & Gadget Podcast
FIND OUT MORE: What is the Game & Gadget Podcast

WEBSITE: Pixel Refresh – Gaming, Gadgets & Tech both Retro & Modern
EMAIL SUBSCRIBE: Latest Articles / Reviews via Email
PIXEL REFRESH YOUTUBE CHANNEL: Pixel Refresh on YouTube
FREE GAME SOUNDTRACKS: ScummVM Music Enhancement Project

I am joined by Tony Warriner who is one of the founders of Revolution Software as we discuss more gaming, gadgets and technology both retro and modern.

Topics include:

Tony’s new book in progress covering the history of Revolution Software – creators of Broken Sword, Beneath a Steel Sky and many more point and click adventures

The Matrix bullet time effect… on a budget

Working on point and click adventure sequels

The point and click adventure CD-ROM talkie versions

Nintendo DS Lite – the cutest portable gaming machine

James’ loathing of free to play games on Android

The ‘New’ Nintendo 3DS XL – James’ favourite handheld gaming device

The failed 3D revolution of TV screens

The extreme difficulty of certain point and click adventures in the 1990s

Remembering Broken Sword ports, especially the Nintendo Wii version

The genius of legally sharing games on the Nintendo DS for multiplayer action

So hard to buy the PS5 and Xbox Series X consoles

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WEBSITE: Pixel Refresh – Gaming, Gadgets & Tech both Retro & Modern
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PIXEL REFRESH YOUTUBE CHANNEL: Pixel Refresh on YouTube
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I am joined by Tony Warriner who is one of the founders of Revolution Software and Aaron Fothergill previously from Argonaut Games and now with Shifty Eye Games as we discuss more gaming, gadgets and technology both retro and modern.

Topics include:

Tony and his new MacBook Pro experiences

So many ports

The joy and despair with USB-C

External keyboards, our obsession

The epic Steel Battalion controller for the original Xbox

Nintendo Wii controllers flying through the air

How our nostalgia and memory collide

Talking to a mouse

Games on cassette and understanding the patterns in the loading sound

Video CD, CD Video, Laser Disc and DivX

Noise Reduction headphones and spatial audio (Apple Airpods Max & Sony XM4)

Smart doorbells

Drone deliveries… really?

Self driving vehicles the future?

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WEBSITE: Pixel Refresh – Gaming, Gadgets & Tech both Retro & Modern
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I am joined by Tony Warriner who is one of the founders of Revolution Software as we discuss more gaming, gadgets and technology both retro and modern.

Topics include:

The new Apple MacBook Pro 14″ & 16″ – Top notch stuff

Tony’s empty wallet from his recent Apple purchases

The Great ‘Escape’ – touchbar woes

Venting on Twitter

My move from iOS to Android… but it was the Samsung Galaxy Note 7

James’ experiences with Windows 11

iPad dominating the tablet market

Moving from Windows to macOS experiences

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WEBSITE: Pixel Refresh – Gaming, Gadgets & Tech both Retro & Modern
EMAIL SUBSCRIBE: Latest Articles / Reviews via Email
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I am joined by Tony Warriner who is one of the founders of Revolution Software , Eugene Sandulenko from ScummVM and Aaron Fothergill previously from Argonaut Games and now with Shifty Eye Games as we discuss gaming, gadgets and technology.

Topics include:

ScummVM 20th Anniversary The processes of development and organising so many developers How Revolution Software shared the source code from their games for ScummVM The development insanity behind the Amiga CD32 The cost of rare Amiga CD32 games The Acorn legacy behind ARM spec How is Tony’s SHMUP progressing? The hidden secrets (and comments) within game source code Porting ScummVM to a fridge! Porting ScummVM to the Nintendo 64 Modern development and mobile apps & games Our favourite (and least liked) operating systems over the years

In the 10th Game & Gadget Podcast, I am joined by Tony Warriner who is one of the founders of Revolution Software as we discuss gaming, gadgets and technology.

Topics include:

Clive Sinclair best known for the the ZX Spectrum computers passes away aged 81

The Raspberry Pi

Early electronic devices and pocket calculators

8-bit computers small amount of memory

The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) 8-bit console and it’s VERY yellow!

The horrors inside 30 year old consoles!

The many mods for retro consoles

8-bit computer loading screens

Magazines including tapes and discs with games, demos and clip art

The sound of a dial up modem

How do we cope without the internet?

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WEBSITE: Pixel Refresh – Gaming, Gadgets & Tech both Retro & Modern
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In the 9th Game & Gadget Podcast, I am joined by Tony Warriner who is one of the founders of Revolution Software as we discuss gaming, gadgets and technology.

Topics include:

Google Nest Doorbell (battery edition)

My first visitor using the doorbell didn’t go quite as expected

Google AI can’t tell the difference between a person and a cat

Smart tag tracking

The sad death of Windows Phone

Your questions

Game development in the UK

The easiest and hardest hardware and software for Tony

Tony has old hard drives that may have game assets on there, but we don’t know… yet!

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WEBSITE: Pixel Refresh – Gaming, Gadgets & Tech both Retro & Modern
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In the 8th Game & Gadget Podcast, I am joined by Tony Warriner who is one of the founders of Revolution Software and Neil Thomas who runs the RMC Retro – The Cave YouTube channel with over 130,000 subscribers.

Topics include:

The RMC Retro Museum

FPGA versus real hardware

SEGA Saturn PSU started smoking / PSU died

Early music in games… beeps versus SID chip

Tony’s Story of Revolution Software book announcement

Tony’s sequel to 1986’s Obsidian using Unity

Tony owns 40 copies of Obsidian and counting!

Broken Sword Remastered – Tony’s upscaling experiment

Console-like version of the FPGA MiSTer

The many ports of Broken Sword

Quake Remastered

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WEBSITE: Pixel Refresh – Gaming, Gadgets & Tech both Retro & Modern
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In the 7th Game & Gadget Podcast, I am joined by Will Judd who works for Eurogamer and Digital Foundry and Daniel Hughes who is one of my closest friends who went to the same college as myself, which meant we had plenty of time to argue about how my 3Dfx was better or worse than his PowerVR for 3D Acceleration in the late 1990s.

Topics include:

3Dfx Versus PowerVR

The power of the Glide API

Unreal and Unreal Tournament

Motorhead

Xbox Series X launch

PS5 10 million sold

Console versus PC gaming

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WEBSITE: Pixel Refresh – Gaming, Gadgets & Tech both Retro & Modern
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In the return of the Game & Gadget Podcast, I am joined by Tony Warriner and Steve Ince – both veterans of the game industry who discuss among other things their time working on point and click adventure classic Broken Sword with Revolution Software .

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WEBSITE: Pixel Refresh – Gaming, Gadgets & Tech both Retro & Modern
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In Bits and Bobs Podcast Episode #2, Tony Warriner and I are joined by Sumo Digital Ltd legend, Senior Executive Producer Steve Lycett to share his gaming and technology memories and recent experiences with VR headsets.

Topics for episode 2 of our podcast include:

ZX Spectrum Next PC Engine mini Half Life: Alyx General retro nostalgia Looking ahead at the next generation consoles Xbox Series X and PS5

After discussions with Tony Warriner, Co-founder of Revolution Software, we were both yearning for a podcast where we could just… well chat. Have a discussion, a conversation regarding gaming, technology and whatever else pops into our head without the gloss of lavish introductions and lots of editing.
Bits and Bobs Podcast introduction

We would love to hear your questions for our next show, so please leave them in the comments below for consideration.

All comments in the podcast are of course our own and are not the opinions of any other individual or organisation.

After discussions with Tony Warriner, Co-founder of Revolution Software, we were both yearning for a podcast where we could just… well chat. Have a discussion, a conversation regarding gaming, technology and whatever else pops into our head without the gloss of lavish introductions and lots of editing.

So, as a result here is our pilot episode of Bits and Bobs in the Raw.

Topics for our first podcast include:

Neither of us are into football, yet know some football… some When hard drive sizes were so incredibly small and expensive ScummVM and their fantastic work and the relationship with Revolution Software obtaining game source code ScummVM Music Enhancement Project The Gene Machine and trying to obtain permission to release the full soundtrack The perils of point and click adventure games moving to 3D … and more!

We would love to hear your questions for our next show, so please leave them in the comments below for consideration.

All comments in the podcast are of course our own and are not the opinions of any other individual or organisation.

I realised just recently it has been over 5 years since I recorded a show! So, with a fancy new microphone, mixer and the desire to interview fascinating individuals – today I am delighted to kick-start these efforts by talking to Neil from popular YouTube channel ‘Retro Man Cave ’, which will soon pass over 100,000 subscribers due to his many videos covering retro computing repair and nostalgia.

Make sure you swing by Neil’s YouTube channel ‘Retro Man Cave ’ to experience for yourself the wonders of retro computing and join his journey through the rich heritage of past technology.

A big thanks to Neil for taking part!

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WEBSITE: Pixel Refresh – Gaming, Gadgets & Tech both Retro & Modern
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In the latest Game & Gadget Podcast we discuss the Xbox One and PlayStation 4 consoles 4 months after the launches, covering the interface, games and features of the two.

Joining me are Ken Barnes – Editor at PureXbox.com and Marty Greenwell – writer, editor and podcast host at ConsoleMonster.com .

Topics:

User question: Has either Xbox One or PS4 justified their price tag?

User question: Will Xbox drop kinect, to drop the price, to pick up sales? And do either of you utilise the kinect features?

User question: Would the controller be a deciding factor on choosing which console to purchase?

Overall impressions of Xbox One and PS4 so far…

Xbox One Kinect impressions

User question: How do you see XBL & PSN evolving over the coming years?

What next gen games we have been playing

What games are we looking forward to?

PC vs Console

We hope you enjoy the podcast.

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WEBSITE: Pixel Refresh – Gaming, Gadgets & Tech both Retro & Modern
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In the latest Game & Gadget Podcast, we discuss Sky’s £9.99 NOW TV Box, Microsoft, Blackberry, Apple & even Ducktales Remastered…

Joining me are Ken Barnes – Editor at PureXbox.com , Matt Baxter-Reynolds a mobile software development consultant and technology sociologist based in the UK who blogs for ZDNet and Marty Greenwell – writer, editor and new podcast host at ConsoleMonster.com .

Topics included:

NOW TV Box powered by Sky – what do we think?

Moto X – Always monitoring audio for commands, creepy or not?

Grand Theft Auto V we all go wild with excitement, but could it be over hyped?

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Ducktales Remastered , James’ thoughts

The possible iPhone 5S, iPhone 5C, iPad Mini with Retina, fingerprint scanners and a gold iPhone colour option

Mark your calendars for Windows 8.1

SkyDrive, Microsoft have to change the name :(

Microsoft and so many Xbox One reversals, where will it end?

Is it all over for Blackberry?

A 41MP camera in a smartphone and it’s from Nokia

We hope you enjoy the podcast.

[CORRECTION: In the podcast, it is mentioned that the NOW TV Box doesn’t have live streams of Sky Movies, actually it does but it is off to the very far side in one menu – although the ‘On-Demand’ content is by far the better option]

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WEBSITE: Pixel Refresh – Gaming, Gadgets & Tech both Retro & Modern
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In my second episode of the ‘Game & Gadget Podcast’ dedicated to gaming and technology, we discuss the recent E3 announcements from Microsoft, Sony & Nintendo, Windows 8.1 and Apple’s WWDC event.

Guests include Matt Baxter-Reynolds a mobile software development consultant and technology sociologist based in the UK who blogs for ZDNet and Chris Brandrick a freelance technology writer at Techhive and a blogger for Gigaom .

Please note that due to a technical problem , my side of the recording is not up to the usual high standard I would expect – however, the debate was so interesting and with quite a bit of audio editing on my part, I decided to release regardless so you can all enjoy the discussions.

Topics:

Did Microsoft’s E3 show redeem themselves for their earlier entertainment focused ‘Xbox One Reveal’ presentation?
What are we looking forward to in Xbox One ?
Xbox One used games policy still confusing?
The Sony PlayStation 4 looks surprisingly understated, just like the Xbox One!
What are we looking forward to in PlayStation 4?
PS4 will have no used game restrictions or online requirements
Sony charging for online multiplayer through PlayStation Plus membership.
PS4 just £349, compared to the Xbox One at £429
Nintendo Wii U Direct video , our thoughts?
Windows 8.1 features explained and discussed
Is Windows 8.1 going to remedy Windows 8 users concerns?
OS X Mavericks announced, no more cats!
iOS 7 revealed with minimal design elements, do we love it or hate it?
The new MacBook Air notebooks Mac Pro cylinder !

We hope you enjoy the podcast.

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WEBSITE: Pixel Refresh – Gaming, Gadgets & Tech both Retro & Modern
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This is the very first episode of a new podcast series dedicated to gaming and technology known as the ‘Game & Gadget Podcast’. For our first episode, we are covering the recent announcement of the new Xbox One console revealed by Microsoft.

It is my aim to have a bunch of guests from various gaming and technology websites within each episode, discussing the latest developments while dipping into retro nostalgia.

For our first edition, please welcome Marty Greenwell – writer, editor and new podcast host at ConsoleMonster.com , Peter Willington – Handheld Editor & Community Manager at PocketGamer.co.uk and Ken Barnes – Editor at PureXbox.com .

Topics:

Overall presentation style compared to PS4 announcement

The name ‘Xbox One’ discussion

The look of the actual console hardware

The console specifications

Still confusion over used games and ‘always on’ – Xbox FAQ

Xbox One HDD is non-removable , supports external USB storage

Xbox One lets you save and restart your game at any point

Smart Match and recording & sharing of gameplay

Expanded Achievements

The new Kinect that is now a standard feature with Xbox One

The updated controller features

No backwards compatibility for retail titles or Xbox Live Arcade purchases and Xbox 360 controllers not supported, but will allow media transfers

We hope you enjoy the podcast.

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WEBSITE: Pixel Refresh – Gaming, Gadgets & Tech both Retro & Modern
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FREE GAME SOUNDTRACKS: ScummVM Music Enhancement Project

Today over Skype I interviewed Dale Mugford, who is the co-founder of Brave New Code . This is Dale’s 3rd time on my podcast and he has joined me to discuss their latest WordPress plugin release WPtouch Pro 3 – a dedicated mobile and tablet view for a WordPress powered website that is designed to decrease loading times and optimises for a touchscreen device.

To find out more information about WPtouch, visit the Brave New Code website.

Today over Skype, we recorded Monster Cast #19 – produced for the Console Monster website.

Joining me in this latest podcast are Marty Greenwell, Reece Warrender, Steven Bourke and special guest Steve Ince.

Steve Ince is an award nominated writer and game designer, best known for his work on Revolution Software titles such as the Broken Sword series and is currently working on a freelance basis.

Monster Cast is an un-scripted casual podcast, where Console Monster staff members come together and discuss the latest news in gaming over the past few weeks.

Topics include…

Disney closes publisher LucasArts
DLC, EA, Xbox Support and the wrongs of Digital Distribution (Marty)
Official Microsoft Statement regarding comments by Adam Orth – “Creative Director at Microsoft Studios. Get involved” – regarding #dealwithit
Ouya console fires back at criticism
Capcom ‘working’ on confirming DuckTales Remastered for PC
Sega Europe admits to misleading Colonial Marines trailers
The Sun reckons PS4 will be released in October
EA: DRM is a dead-end strategy, was never discussed in SimCity meetings

Also, if you stick around until after the ending goodbyes – Steve Ince gives us an insider view of development for games including the latest Broken Sword title currently in progress!

Today over Skype I interviewed Leo Zullo, Managing Director of Wired Productions discussing eJay Pure – a free music creation app that has been announced via a Kickstarter campaign that is hoping to raise £150,000.

eJay Pure is expected to release on iOS and Android tablets in November 2013 if funding is successful and is designed to give beginners the opportunity to create electronic music that can be shared with the community online.

In the podcast we cover the eJay legacy, designing for a touchscreen interface and what we can expect with eJay Pure.

Joining me today over Skype, Graham North – Commercial Director from Humax UK details the different television technologies, the services available and looking ahead to the future of TV and content delivery.

Freeview and Freesat are non-subscription based television services that offer a tantalising alternative to other cable and satellite providers who require a monthly fee.

Joining me over Skype, Charles Cecil CEO of Revolution Software discusses the wonderful world of classic point and click adventure games, how the industry has changed and a glimpse of future titles including Broken Sword: The Serpent’s Curse.

Recently, Revolution Software successfully raised $771,560 to develop Broken Sword: The Serpent’s Curse via a Kickstarter campaign, proving that this genre continues to thrive within the gaming community.

In my latest podcast, I interview Rob Landeros co-founder of Trilobyte Games and co-founder of Aftermath Media David Wheeler. Between them, they have been involved with such classic titles as The 7th Guest, The 11th Hour, Tender Loving Care and more.

We discuss their involvement with these titles, with new insights into their development and whether there is a possible continuation of the 7th Guest series.

In my latest podcast I interview Duncan Best (Marketing Director) and Simon Sauntson (Marketing Manager) from RailSimulator.com regarding their latest rail simulator product ‘Train Simulator 2013’.

Here Duncan and Simon reveal the latest features and updates available in Train Simulator 2013 – including updated menu layouts, new routes & locomotives, improved graphical fidelity & performance, Xbox 360 controller support, the ‘Quick Drive’ options, community creations and much more…

Train Simulator 2013 will launch worldwide on Steam on September 20. TS2013 will include fabulous new routes complete with locomotives from around the world. As well as new content, new control options and navigation in-game provide more flexibility and control for players.

Engine Driver Blog

I hope you enjoy the podcast.

In my latest podcast, I interview Stephen Fern who is behind the Lost Kidz app that has just been released for the Apple iPhone.

I am sure it is a nightmare for any parent who is distracted for just one single moment, only to realise that their child is no longer by their side. Stephen explains how his app has great potential by utilising a vast community of local app users to aid in the search of locating a missing child.

From the official website:

As parents, we all know the heart stopping moment when we realise that our child has gone missing.

The Lost Kidz App has been developed to enable parents to send out an alert to other parents in the area if their child goes missing. The alert includes a current photo and any relevant information about the child, allowing an anxious parent to recruit the help of everyone in the vicinity to reunite the parent with their child.

Lost Kidz Website

iTunes Store Link: Lost Kidz

In my latest podcast, I interview developers Eugene Sandulenko, Arnaud Boutonné and Johannes Schickel from the open source software ScummVM . ScummVM allows you to enjoy point and click adventure games on a variety of platforms including computers, consoles and portable devices.

We discuss a variety of subjects regarding the software, including how it began, how it has evolved and what we can look forward to in the future.

ScummVM is a program which allows you to run certain classic graphical point-and-click adventure games, provided you already have their data files. The clever part about this: ScummVM just replaces the executables shipped with the games, allowing you to play them on systems for which they were never designed!

ScummVM supports many adventure games, including LucasArts SCUMM games (such as Monkey Island 1-3, Day of the Tentacle, Sam & Max, …), many of Sierra’s AGI and SCI games (such as King’s Quest 1-6, Space Quest 1-5, …), Discworld 1 and 2, Simon the Sorcerer 1 and 2, Beneath A Steel Sky, Lure of the Temptress, Broken Sword 1 and 2, Flight of the Amazon Queen, Gobliiins 1-3, The Legend of Kyrandia 1-3, many of Humongous Entertainment’s children’s SCUMM games (including Freddi Fish and Putt Putt games) and many more.

Enjoy…

I interview Wil Stephens who is the Vice President of International Business Development for Boxee. Here he tells us all about their Boxee Box, which is a device you hook up to your HDMI compatible television to expand the content – with access to on-line films, television shows and music, all on demand.

You can also view your own captured or created content including music, photographs and home movies all on your television.

Below is a transcription with some of the highlights from the podcast, however in the audio version you can enjoy the full interview covering additional topics.

James: So before we begin to chat about Boxee, please tell us a little bit about yourself?

I am Wil Stephens, I am heading up Boxee’s international operations from London. I joined Boxee at the beginning of this year, before we officially launched in the UK in June. I’m heading up Boxee’s European operations to begin with, starting from London.

James: So who are Boxee and where did the name come from?

Boxee is a company which is headquarted in New York. The name came from our founder and CEO, whose had a Boxer dog – so the Boxer became Boxee.

Boxee is now a four year old start-up. R&D offices based in Tel Aviv, Israel. We are a pretty global company by now, we have around 30-40 employees and growing very rapidly.

James: Your main product is the Boxee Box, which claims to be the ‘One box your TV needs’. So what can you tell us about this product and how does it enhance our televisions?

A lot of people’s favourite stuff is already available on the Internet. Boxee is the best possible way to get all those movies, TV shows and clips from the web and on to the best screen in your house – which is the television. We catalogue over ten thousand shows, five thousand movies and we also have over 200 apps available on the Boxee Box – so you can browse for new video clips, movies and TV shows – in any format, any language or any territory you wish – all through your TV.

James: Boxee Box has a wide range of content providers, many we will recognise including BBC iPlayer – which allows us to watch many of their programmes that we may have missed. What can you tell us about BBC iPlayer on Boxee Box and many of the other services available?

We are thrilled to have the BBC iPlayer on the Boxee Box. It is probably the most recognised and appreciated service here in the UK. We are actually in partnership with the BBC developing the new version of iPlayer for the Boxee Box, which will be available very shortly. The benefits of the new version will be far better integration with our content library, which makes the TV shows available on the iPlayer searchable and more discoverable through Boxee’s well known and familiar interface.

We are building out other services, working with all the major broadcasters as you’d expect in the UK. We have already made announcements on film service ‘blinkbox’, which will be on the Boxee Box shortly. We are also building out with major European partners – from France, Germany, Sweden, Spain and everywhere else to make Boxee relevant and available to as most people as possible.

James: We have TV shows, movies and we have streaming music as well I believe?

Yes we do have streaming music. We actually have a number of music streaming services available on the Boxee Box already. We will be making further announcements and new services in the coming weeks.

James: So the Boxee Box unit itself, what sort of connections does it have to connect to a television?

Basically, we want Boxee to be a HDMI 1 on every television. We want it to be the first HDMI device you plug into your television and the only HDMI device your television needs. We also have audio outs to go into your audio Hi-Fi system to give you the best quality sound. We also feature USB inputs at the back, so you can also attach external storage.

James: It’s got built-in wireless and its also got a LAN port if you want to plug in with a wired Ethernet connection, but if you’ve got a Network-Attached Storage drive (NAS), which is basically just a hard drive you can plug into your router – you can connect to any media you have on there to stream directly to your Boxee Box and through your television.

It supports right up to 1080p, 24 frames per second and a whole host of audio playback features as well – so I think you’ve pretty much covered the vast majority of content requirements you may have?

I think the Boxee Box is probably the most versatile box out there in terms of content formats it can support and I think that’s probably the biggest benefit for people who have lots of local files and movies in various formats – they can all just play on the Boxee Box easily.

James: Boxee’s far more than just the hardware Boxee Box you provide, you also have various software options available as well for Windows, Mac and Linux – so what can you tell us about this area?

Boxee obviously started life with downloadable software on various platforms and we continue to support them. We have recently announced that we will be releasing a major update for our downloadable software in the next few weeks and we are very excited to bring our software up to speed with the recent developments on the Boxee Box.

James: So how does Boxee on the Apple iPad work?

It allows you to stream videos between the iPad and the Boxee TV, so it’s a way of curating content, flicking through your libraries, seeing what people are recommending to you and added to the Featured Lists from Boxee’s own editorial team. It’s also there as a way to stream content between your PC, so we have what we call Boxee Media Manager – which is a way of streaming all of the local files you may have that are not playable on an iPad for example flash video. We transcode those videos on the fly, so you can just watch them in real time without doing any extra steps on your part, so it’s a great way to watch any of your local files as well as all the web files in one place.

James: So how can we find more about Boxee and Boxee Box and all the other software iterations?

Log-on to boxee.tv and also follow us on Twitter @Boxee .

I host the latest Monster Cast for gaming website Console Monster , with guests Marty Greenwell and Ricky Lee Staines to discuss the three presentations by Microsoft, Sony and Nintendo.

Console Monster is an Xbox 360 and Sony PlayStation3 specific website with news, reviews, previews, forum, achievements and trophies database. They even have a very sleak iPhone app, which is downloadable on the Apple iTunes Store .

Topics include:

Nintendo Wii U Announcement
Nintendo 3DS coverage
Sony PlayStation 3 content and apology
Sony PSVita (formerly Sony NGP)
Microsoft Xbox 360 presentation
Microsoft Kinect overload!
Various highlights of the event

This is the second Tech Depot Blog UK Podcast, hosted by James Woodcock. On this occasion, Andrew Breen joins me to tell us all about one of their primary products, BoostSpeed which is currently in its 5th version. BoostSpeed claims to be your one-stop computer maintenance and optimisation tool, providing you with everything you may need to keep your PC running fast. The program will clean up, speed up and repair your system, tweak Windows settings to your liking and protect your privacy.

Below is a transcription with some of the highlights from the podcast, however in the audio version you can enjoy the full interview covering additional topics located at the bottom of the article.

James: Please tell us a little about yourself?

Andrew: I am from Canada. I have always worked in online marketing, worked accross Canada and then moved into Australia which is how I hooked up with the team at Auslogics. As people can tell from the name ‘Aus’ stands for Australia, which is where most of the team is.

Most of my work is focused online because that is where a lot of our customers are. Right now I am working on promoting our latest product which is BoostSpeed 5.

James: So how did Auslogics begin?

Andrew: They started in 2008, in Sydney Australia. Like a lot of advanced PC users, they saw that Windows wasn’t doing a great job when it came to helping users maintain their systems – especially system management tools. They are either too complicated or too hard to find or they just weren’t there.

Take Windows Disk Defragmentator for example. To start it is super slow, I have been using Vista and it’s taken up to a full day just to ‘defrag’ one hard drive – plus they thought that the built-in defragmentor wasn’t doing a great job. Another example is the registry repair, it is long proven that Windows is built in a way that the registry does need cleaning from time to time and yet there is no built-in way to do that with Microsoft, so Auslogics thought that they could create a software package that was faster than Microsoft’s tools, had more features and was more user friendly.

James: What is BoostSpeed?

Andrew: You can make the analogy that computers are like cars, without the proper care they start slowing down, experiencing problems and breaking down. BoostSpeed 5 is like taking your car to the garage – we can help you tune up your computer and diagnose and fix problems before they become really big issues. Let’s face it, most Windows computers are built in a way that they do need maintenance and we provide the necessary tools and functionality to do that.

James: What kind of problems could we expect without software such as Auslogics BoostSpeed?

Andrew: Slowness is really one of the main issues we try and address and that really comes from the registry. Basically, the registry is the core database of any Windows operating system and it stores and manages all the settings for pretty much everything on the computer – all of the hardware, all of the operating system software, all of the applications and user settings. New registry entries are made every day when you are using a computer, especially when you are trying out new software. I am sure you find, after you un-install software – your computer is never quite as quick as it was before and that is a problem with the registry. Ideally, configuration settings should be deleted from the registry automatically when you remove an application or device but often that doesn’t happen. To put it simply, registry errors slows down your computer and that is why registry clean-up is so important.

The register cleaner deletes redundant entries from your registry, but there are bits of free space all over the registry and that’s where Registry Defragmentors come in. Registry defragmentation slows down your computer sometimes more than the errors and that is why we put both Registry cleaner and a defragmentor within BoostSpeed 5.

James: What is Disk Defragmentation?

Andrew: Microsoft provides the tools sometimes, but they are never perfect and that is a classic case with the Disk Defragmentor. It is painfully slow and it doesn’t do anything more than defragment the files, but really that’s not quite enough. The free space also needs to be ‘defragged’ so the new files aren’t split into dozens of fragments and file placement needs to be optimised for faster access.

Basically our software fights all the fragmentation and file placement problems. We are actually quite proud that it’s the fastest defragmentor available on the market today. We get fantastic reviews.

James: So before we begin, please tell us a little about yourself?

Oded: I have been working for Microsoft UK for the past four years and recently moved to work on the launch of Windows Phone, the new set of phones in the UK since October 2010 and currently working together with our partners in the UK, all the network operators on launching the new set of phones in this country.

James: Microsoft have released updates to their mobile platform ‘Windows Mobile’ for many years, but more recently Windows Phone 7 has entered the market with a bold new design, so why is this sudden revamp so important to Microsoft and indeed the consumer?

Oded: We took a step back more than a year and a half ago to look at what people want to get out of using smart-phones and new phones and part of that process of rethinking phones in general – we came with the ideas behind Windows Phone 7 that really look extremely different from any other phone in the market currently.

The design or the way we call it ‘user interface’, the menus and the software that the phones are running is very much different from other phones. The menus are very sleek, with the introduction of things like ‘live tiles’, motion and animation in a way that is really un-similar to anything else on phones today.

Another thing that we really wanted to focus on was to bring a really consistent, familiar and simple experience to phones. For many of your listeners who might not know what a Windows Phone exactly means – you can just imagine that you can just go to any network operator in the UK and ask them to buy various phones from various brands including Samsung, HTC or LG and ask for a Windows Phone so that the look and feel of the phone and the software it is running is very similar and you get to choose the phone hardware that you wish to choose.

James: When we first turn on a Windows Phone device, what can we expect?

Oded: The first thing that strikes most people when they turn on a phone is just how easy it is to start setting it up after just choosing the right time and date. The user can for instance really simply with just their Facebook details, within a few seconds their address book will be updated with the pictures and names of their own friends and any other information they share with them through Facebook – it is almost like the phone comes alive.

It’s also very easy to add your Hotmail, MSN or Windows Live email address (we call it Windows Live ID) – in order to download applications. There’s little bits of software that make phones even more useful and interactive then they used to be to download apps, music etc. The key focus for us again was around the simplicity – people know how to use Office or Internet Explorer on their PCs, we wanted to bring that simplicity also to Windows Phone 7.

James: What is a ‘Live Tile’?

Oded: Live Tile is a new way of using information on your phone. If you look at different phones today, you have two types. Many phones follow the icon type of menu structure software and icons are very nice and colourful, but they also are not as personal and they are pretty static and don’t change with information, so the weather icon on your phone may always tell you it is always 23 degrees outside and sunny – it will not update with the real information out there. Android and Google went ahead with widgets, but some people when they use a widget may find them a bit more complex, not as easy to use and not as consistent. Live Tiles really take the best out of both worlds, they are very simple and intuitive so the text messages icon is a large icon but it will update automatically with the number of unread messages and will even change from a smiley face to a sad face if you have too many unread text messages. Your weather icon for example would update with the weather and temperature near where you are or if I take another example from an application such as a train travel app, instead of just showing you a logo of your train company, it will actually tell you that your train would be leaving from a specific platform at a specific time.

So the idea of Live Tiles is really to enable you to glance quickly at your phone screen and not necessarily to open the app or the setting itself to see what is underneath it. The best example I can give is probably the alarm clock. How many of you currently need to every night when you go to sleep, click on the alarm icon just to open the alarm application – see whether the alarm is set and what time the phone will wake you up. On Windows Phone 7, the tile immediately tells you your alarm clock is on and what time it will wake you up tomorrow.

James: For gamers, one of the most exciting additions is that of Xbox Live integration, so what can you tell us about this area?

Oded: This bit is really something that when we see Xbox hardcore gamers get their phone, they absolutely fall in love with it for a few reasons. First it’s the only phone with Xbox Live, so that means you get to see your own avatar, you can send and receive messages to your Xbox friends straight from the phone and you can even gain achievements and increase your Gamerscore by playing games on the phone.

We also introduced other elements such as online multiplayer, where at least a few games currently offer that functionality. That means that if for instance I am playing Chess, I can invite another friend to play Chess against me and when it is time for my friend to have their move they would be able to get a message on their phone alerting them that it is their turn.

It also means for any gamers that they can start interacting with their gaming life, not only from their Xbox 360 game console in their home, but from wherever they are.

James: Windows Phone 7 comes with Microsoft Office Mobile built in for ‘working on the go’, but what can be created using this software and how usable is it on a mobile device?

Oded: Users of Windows Phones can create or edit documents with Word, Excel and Powerpoint. The most important thing that we worked on is to really make the Office version of Windows Phone extremely easy to use and extremely loyal to how the Word document that you’re editing or the Excel spreadsheet that you’re opening looks on the PC. That is a real problem on some of the experiences users had to have in the past few years, where they would open up a document and it would not look exactly like they would expect it to look on their phone. It might not have the right font, graphics or any other element which would have made it very hard to rely on your phone to use it for work purposes.

In my 30th podcast I feature Dale Mugford, who is the co-founder of Brave New Code .

They have created a plugin for WordPress called WPtouch that gives your website or blog a mobile theme that decreases loading times and optimises for a touch-screen device.

Topics include:

Who is Dale Mugford and how did Brave New Code begin?
Why did you specifically choose to support WordPress?
Why would someone who has a website or blog powered by WordPress need WPtouch?
WPtouch install process
Free versus purchasable versions available
WPtouch celebrity endorsement from Stephen Fry

[/embed]

WPtouch Web-App mode
The opportunities with HTML5
WPtouch Apple iPad support
Supporting other tablet devices
Considering interface and screen sizes on a tablet
Options within WPtouch
Disabling plugins specifically for mobile themes
Prioritising content
Possible future developments for WPtouch
Dale reverses roles and interviews James on his experience of WPtouch on James Woodcock’s blog

To find out more information about WPtouch and their other plugins, visit the Brave New Code website.

On this latest podcast episode, I host this edition joined with guests Marty Greenwell and Tim Leigh. Covering the latest discussion around the Microsoft Xbox 360 and Sony PlayStation3 news and reviews on the renamed Monster Cast .

Console Monster is an Xbox 360 and Sony PlayStation3 specific website with news, reviews, previews, forum, achievements and trophies database. They even have a very sleak iPhone app, which is downloadable on the Apple iTunes Store .

The title of the latest podcast is Monster Cast #10 – Kinect Launch .

Topics include:

New Xbox 360 Dashboard Update
Microsoft Kinect – The verdict!
Gran Turismo 5 gone gold at long last
Racing games and a little nostalgia
Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode 1 impressions
Fable 3
Fallout New Vegas

From episode 1 to 8, I hosted the Console Monster Podcast but due to lack of time and staff participation we all took a breather. Rob Rymond took over the hosting helm for a while and now we have decided to share the hosting responsibilities between us, so on this latest episode I act as host along with Marty Greenwell and Rob Rymond as guests to discuss the latest Microsoft Xbox 360 console and Sony PlayStation3 news and reviews on the renamed Monster Cast .

Topics include…

Lara Croft and the Guardian of Light
Gran Turismo UK Release Date
Virtua Tennis 4 to support PlayStation Move
EA Sports announce FIFA 11 ‘Be A Goalkeeper’ feature
Kinect dated for UK
Rock Band 3 track list
Final Fantasy XIII advertisement breach
Realtime Worlds company problems
Resistance 3 – little news
Fable 3 and Halo Reach

Paul Jackson, CEO of RailSimulator.com joins me again on my podcast to discuss the RailWorks Train Simulator , which is available predominantly on Steam .

In this audio interview, Paul tells us about many of the exciting updates that have either just released or will be coming to us in the very near future. These include a brand new career system, challenging you to perfect your locomotive skills or feel the pain of losing crucial points and a discussion regarding an upcoming set of interface changes that will push rail simulation far further than ever before.

From episode 1 to 8, I hosted the Console Monster Podcast but due to lack of time and staff participation we all took a breather. Rob Rymond took over the hosting helm for a while and now we have decided to share the hosting responsibilities between us, so on this latest episode I act as host along with Marty Greenwell as guest to discuss the latest Microsoft Xbox 360 console and Sony PlayStation3 news and reviews on the renamed Monster Cast .

Topics include…

Pretty shoddy E3 Microsoft presentation
Natal now known as Kinect
Kinect official price still not totally confirmed
Kinect launch titles
Kinect concerns
New slimmer Xbox 360 S
No rings red of deathhhhhhh
Very few games…
Sony presentation
3D gaming with glasses
PlayStation Plus
PlayStation Move
PlayStation Move pricing
No PSP2 announcement
James and Marty agree on almost everything!
Nintendo 3DS
Xbox Live Family Pack
New Downloadable Content

In my latest podcast, I chat with Jon Fox who is the co-founder, mastermind and code monkey of IntenseDebate .

With IntenseDebate, you can let your readers post comments using services like Facebook, Twitter, and OpenID. They can also sign up for an IntenseDebate profile or simply comment without one as a Guest. E-mail notifications alert you and your readers of new comments, encouraging return visits and additional commenting. You can reply to and moderate comments via email, while threading makes it easy to follow the conversation and many more features that are described in this podcast.

Podcast topics include:

What is IntenseDebate?
How did it all begin?
Features of IntenseDebate
Customisation
Any slowdown when adding so many features to your own site?
Rating comments
Facebook and Twitter integration
Reputation system
The dreaded SPAM
Additional plugins for IntenseDebate
Automattic Inc. purchasing IntenseDebate and the effect of this transaction
IntenseDebate future on WordPress.com blogs
What can IntenseDebate offer over any rivals with a similar feature list?
Looking to the future…
IntenseDebate on Mobile devices
HTML5 and VP8

From episode 1 to 8, I hosted the Console Monster Podcast but due to lack of time and staff participation we all took a breather. Rob Rymond took over the hosting helm for a while and now we have decided to share the hosting responsibilities between us, so on this latest episode I act as host along with Rob Rymond and Marty Greenwell as guests to discuss the latest Microsoft Xbox 360 console and Sony PlayStation3 news and reviews on the renamed Monster Cast .

Topics include…

Red Dead Redemption trailer and the bizarre 400 points gift?
Achievements Versus Trophies
The godly platinum trophies
Dings, bings or bongs?
PS3 Firmware update 3.30 and 3.21
Halo Reach Editions revealed
Collectors editions
The Halo evolution
Halo 2 multiplayer… Ahhh the memories
Friends change the gameplay experience?
Split Second demo impressions
Bad demo, great retail game…
Sonic and SEGA All Stars Racing
FIFA overload?
Scoring a purchase
Our gaming recommendations

I interview Alex Ford, the Publishing Director from JustTrains.net regarding their rail simulator products plus add ons and also a little regarding their flight simulation offerings as well.

In this podcast we discuss the various rail simulations including Microsoft Train Simulator, Trainz, Rail Simulator and RailWorks .

Just Trains is the sister label to Just Flight, which began life in 1995 as a company named The Associates. The mission (that they had chosen to accept) was to supply the newly-emerging flight simulation enthusiast market with the latest and best software. Within three years the Just Flight name was firmly established as a brand and the company grew into the world’s largest publisher of flight simulation software outside Microsoft.

Also announced during our podcast interview is a piece of free content for Rail Simulator and RailWorks from JustTrains.net.

They will be making available a totally free ZZA snow plough to subscribers of their newsletter . This is a little wagon that has been in use for many years over the UK rail Network clearing lines of snow. When used in RailWorks, the ZZA takes advantage of the ‘Just Trains ActivScript’ to supply snow clearing sounds and visual effects. If you want to grab hold of this great free little add-on in roughly a couple of weeks, make sure that you subscribe to their newsletter – just follow the subscribe link on the front of their website.

Paul Jackson, CEO of RailSimulator.com joins me on the telephone to discuss the RailWorks Train Simulator , which is available predominantly on Steam .

In this audio interview, Paul tells us about his history with trains, the process of creating such a complex simulator and what exciting items of content and features are around the corner for those who like me love to try our hand at controlling steam, diesel and electric trains of all kinds from all over the world from the comfort of our own home.

The Yamaha UK Product and Promotions Manager James Sargeant has joined me in the latest Yamaha Personal Keyboard Owner audio show to discuss the latest instruments announced including the PSR-S710, PSR-S910 and the Clavinova CVP-500 Series. We discuss the impressive sounds, vast array of styles, the latest technology and of course there are audio demonstrations included as well during the interview.

In my latest podcast, Paul Scrivens better known as Scrivs’, Mike Rundle and Tyme White join me to discuss their website 9rules.com with all the background information and a little more besides.

9rules is a place where members and readers can connect, build relationships, and learn new things. My own blog was accepted in December 2006 and has been listed ever since.

Topics discussed include:

Rogues gallery
The coming together of the trio
The road to 9rules.com
The evolution
The separation
9 is the magic number!
Hours lost, fulfilment achieved
Ooops, time for completely customised code
Benefits of the leaf
It is all about the numbers and the not knowing
Wearing the leaf
Don’t take offence…. but…
The way forward
The personal rewards
The Internet is growing up, bless it
Time for deep reflection – time for Tyme
9rules community asks…
Grab a notepad, 9rules trio dish out their ideas… maybe
There is gold on the web, somewhere

In an agreement with HGZine , I have been given permission to release certain audio interviews I have recorded for the online magazine right here on my personal website as podcasts.

I interview Steve Lycett, Executive Producer and Travis Ryan Lead Designer of SEGA Superstars Tennis. Although this interview was intended for a portable handheld magazine, there is a lot of detail about the next generation versions as well.

Topics include:

What is SEGA Superstars Tennis
How did it all come about?
How close is SEGA Superstars Tennis to Virtua Tennis 3?
Control scheme
Characters featured and their skills
The Gilius Thunderhead voice! (Golden Axe )
Superstar abilities
What SEGA characters didn’t make it
PSP version of SEGA Superstars Tennis coming?
NiGHTS appearance, flying and playing tennis
Mini-Games details
Available game modes
Court environments
Musical assets
Using DS specific controls
Working on portable gaming systems compared to consoles

In 360Zine issue #17 , I interview Graeme Boyd better known as AceyBongos . He is the Community Manager of Xbox E.M.E.A. The full 45 minute audio interview is now also available right here on my website to stream or download for your listening pleasure.

In an agreement with 360Zine , I have been given permission to release certain audio interviews I have recorded for the online magazine right here on my personal website as podcasts.

Topics include:

What is the story behind the Gamertag AceyBongos?
Entering the Microsoft realm
Amazingly long job title!
Job involvement
GDC and other events
Gears of War 2, Fable 2 and XNA
Difficulty of having a global corporation
Feedback
Compared to Major Nelson
What rewards are in blogging?
Is the UK missing out on gaming events?
Troubles with Xbox Live
Podcasts on Marketplace?
AceyBongos Podcast?
What does Xbox Live offer over the PlayStation Network?
Thoughts on the Nintendo Wii?
HD DVD dead, what now?
Favourite games?
Midtown Madness 3 please!
Xbox Live Arcade favourites?
Gaming dabbler or achievement gatherer?

And… just in case you have forgotten, that is A.C.E.Y.B.O.N.G.O.S. , as in www.aceybongos.com !

In an agreement with HGZine , I have been given permission to release certain audio interviews I have recorded for the online magazine right here on my personal website as podcasts.

In HGZine issue 10, I interviewed Toby Allen regarding the new Track and Field game for Nintendo DS.

Topics discussed include:

History behind Track and Field
Changes for the Nintendo DS
What events are included?
Why the Nintendo DS?
How long in development?
What challenges are involved when developing for portable systems?
A nice change developing for portable systems compared to the next generation consoles?
3D characters?
Any assets from the original arcade game?
What characters are available?
Any quirky moments?
Multiplayer support

Gamerzines are free online downloadable magazines, rich with written and multimedia content. Covering various consoles, portable devices and PC gaming, you can be sure to fulfill your lust for information.

In an agreement with P3Zine , I have been given permission to release certain audio interviews I have recorded for the online magazine right here on my personal website as podcasts.

In P3Zine issue 10, I interviewed Darren Williams regarding the new run and shoot game The Club.

Topics include:

What is The Club?
How long in development?
What is the storyline?
Why a third person shooter?
What different single player modes are available?
How does the Artificial Intelligence (A.I.) respond?
What is there to shoot other than just enemies?
How does the score system function?
Any replay features?
Moving around the levels
Will we recognise any of the locations?
Variations between indoor and outdoor sections within a level?
Multiplayer support
Are there any visual differences between the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 versions?
Any Sixaxis support?
When will the game be released?
Where can we find out more?
Demo versions

Gamerzines are free online downloadable magazines, rich with written and multimedia content. Covering various consoles, portable devices and PC gaming, you can be sure to fulfill your lust for information.

In an agreement with 360Zine , I have been given permission to release certain audio interviews I have recorded for the online magazine right here on my personal website as podcasts.

In 360Zine issue 11 , I interview Mark Fisher from SEGA, who is delighted to tell us all about the latest SEGA Rally for next generation consoles.

Topics discussed include:

Who is Mark Fisher?
SEGA Rally heritage
Why is SEGA Rally returning now?
Challenges with development in UK compared to earlier titles in Japan?
What is deformation?
How intelligent is the artificial intelligence (A.I.)?
Arcade, simulation or a mixture?
No rain, all sun!
Changing surfaces
How many tracks?
Included single player game modes?
What can we expect for the online modes and will deformation be available as well?
Comparing Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 versions
What cars are available?

Also you can find out more by reading my SEGA Rally Preview …

Gamerzines are free online downloadable magazines, rich with written and multimedia content. Covering various consoles, portable devices and PC gaming, you can be sure to fulfill your lust for information.

In the latest YPKO Podcast, Peter Baartmans joins me to talk about his role as a worldwide demonstrator for Yamaha keyboards and digital pianos.

Peter is well known on the Yamaha circuit due to his many events and presentations that have been featured on the Internet through the official Yamaha website and of course the avid fans that follows his talent.

This podcast includes:

The Tony Ross Audio CD (full CD available from the Yamaha Club )
Peter Baartmans Interview

Peter’s music history
Inspirations…
Recommendations for learning the piano
Demonstrating around the world to different cultures and the challenges involved
Using pianos and keyboards
New Clavinova 400 Series Digital Pianos

New Internet Direct Connection styles samples

80’s Hi Energy
Classic Movie Ballad
Party Waltz
Brazil Guitar Samba
80’sChartPop

I interview John Selogy, one of the team members involved in the new Social Bookmarking website dedicated to gaming named Glinkster .

Topics discussed:

What is Social Bookmarking ?
What is Glinkster ?
Who is behind Glinkster?
What is in it for the people behind Glinkster?
Meooooooow
What are the benefits for gamers in using Glinkster?
John talks about his gaming experiences past and present
Nintendo Wii love
Living, breathing, sleeping Glinkster
Process for Glink’ing?
Age of articles an issue?
Ranking links
Incentives for the Glink’ers
Difficult times
How do webmasters add Glinkster to their websites?
Future plans for Glinkster
Where did the name ‘Glinkster’ come from?

In our latest podcast (audio show), I interview James Sargeant, who is the Product Specialist from Yamaha UK. Discussing primarily the new Regi-Stick Plus, James talks us through the features of this latest software offering from Yamaha.

The new Regi-Stick is designed for the Yamaha Tyros 2 allowing owners to expand their keyboard even further.

Podcast discussion includes:

Yamaha Clavinova CVP-405 Modern Country Snippet
James Sargeant Interview – Part 1

What is your typical day at Yamaha UK?
How did you get involved with Yamaha?
How did you get into music?
What is the original Regi-Stick (now named Regi-Stick Classic)?
What is Regi-Stick Plus?
How many registrations are included?
Are all the registrations completely new and not from the original Regi-Stick?
Can Regi-Stick Plus be copied to the internal hard drive?
USB Stick design
What was involved in creating the Regi-Stick Plus?

Yamaha Tyros 2 Internet Direct Connection New Style Demonstrations (Power Disco and Rock Keys)
James Sargeant Interview – Part 2

Do you require bass pedals to fully enjoy this product?
Setting up
Will there be any other versions of Regi-Stick for other instruments?
What is Melody Maker?
Where can we see demonstrations?
Pricing

In the second part of our debate of the Console Monster Podcast , myself (James Woodcock), John, Cat, Scott and Chris continue our ramblings about the following subjects:

Manhunt 2 Gets ‘M’ Rating
Do Real Time Strategy (RTS) Games work on consoles?
Tank Rush!
Fireworks!
Assassins Creed – John concerned, Cat excited and wot not
Multi-platform gaming damaging overall quality?
The Simpsons Game – Doh!
Cats love for Simpsons Hit and Run – Medic!!!
Cats Xbox 360 Elite – Crisp and Shiny
What we are playing?
Yoshi Ringtone!

It has been a long time since the last Console Monster Podcast, however here is Part 1 of a debate that lasted over an hour, so I split it into two. Part 2 will feature in about a weeks time continuing on from where we left off…

This show features your host James Woodcock, John Boyle, Cat Fuellsak, Scott Webber and Chris Brandrick.

Part 1 of the debate covers the following:

Sony announce PlayTV
Sony PlayStation and the PSP connection
Mafia 2 thoughts
FIFA 08 – 10 player online
FIFA Versus Pro Evolution Soccer
Xbox Live Rep System
Bioshock – Why is it sooo impressive?
The Xbox 360 price drop , the verdict!
Did Microsoft waste their year head start in the console race?
Nintendo Wii success a shocker?
Nintendo E3 Press Conference disaster?
Xbox 360 three red lights nightmare
Xbox 360s can be fixed, but can Microsoft’s reputation?
Xbox 360 Halo 3 edition console
No price drop for Sony PlayStation 3 in Europe reaction
Paramount go exclusive to HD DVD
Video Marketplace Coming to UK, but will we use it?

The Yamaha UK Marketing Manager of the Electronic Keyboard Division, joins me on the phone to discuss primarily the new Yamaha Clavinova CVP-400 digital piano range, PSR-S series keyboards and the Modus H01.

This podcast also features sound demonstrations from the PSR-S900 and Clavinova CVP-405!

This edition features the following:

Yamaha PSR-S900 Main Demonstration
Andy Carvill Interview – Part 1

How does Yamaha UK fit in globally with Yamaha?
How much influence does Yamaha UK have over Yamaha Japan with instrument features, ideas and design?
How long have you worked with Yamaha and how did your career with them begin?
Yamaha UK EXPO 2007
Yamaha UK public demonstrations

Yamaha CVP-405 Main Demonstration
Yamaha CVP-405 Piano Sound Samples
Andy Carvill Interview – Part 2

Yamaha PSR-S Series information , UK launch dates and retail prices
Yamaha Clavinova CVP-400 range information , UK launch dates and retail prices
Yamaha Modus H01 information , UK launch date and retail price

Yamaha CVP-405 Uptempo 8-Beat Sounds Sample
Yamaha PSR-S900 Dance Sounds Sample

Thanks to Roger Hagarty from Roger’s Music for allowing me access to record the sound samples from the new Yamaha PSR-S900 keyboard and Clavinova CVP-405 digital piano.

In June 2007, I interviewed Bernard Perry where he announces the new way of storing your sheet music digitally, which makes it far simpler locating your favourite pieces you like to perform. This may be used for any instrument, but as I also run a Yamaha keyboard and digital piano enthusiast website with nearly 7500 members, we concentrated on this aspect.

I have released this podcast here just to demonstrate my other interests as much as anything else. It is a very different style to most of my gaming podcasts, however I love variety! The podcast also explains my Yamaha website.

This edition features:

Yamaha PSR-S500 Keyboard Demonstration
MusicPad Pro Interview – Part 1
YPKO Voicemail Callers
MusicPad Pro Interview – Part 2
Yamaha PSR-E403 Keyboard Demonstration

You can also purchase and download sheet music from their new website. You can also read my review on my Yamaha Personal Keyboard Owner website.

In the latest Console Monster Podcast, I interview Toby Allen, Assistant Producer from Sumo Digital, who are behind the Xbox 360 port of Virtua Tennis 3.

Also featured is an interview with Max Freiert from Compete Blog [38:14], who discusses his two posts on ‘Xbox 360, Halo 3, and Gears of War: Violence breeds killer apps? ‘ and ‘Xbox360 vs. Wii vs. PS3: Demand doesn’t lie ‘.

The Virtua Tennis 3 interview includes the following topics:

Who are Sumo Digital?
Toby’s experience in gaming
Still enjoy the games you develop after release?
Developing for next generation systems
Difference in quality of development tools
Multi-platform gaming development
Creating games on lower spec systems
Played previous Virtua Tennis games?
What has changed in this latest incarnation?
What is all the fuss about 1080p?
Why does the Xbox 360 version have online multiplayer, but the PlayStation 3 does not?
What is the process involved when porting a game?
Any major/minor differences between the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 versions?
What is involved with the single player experience?
Achievements spread
Favourite mini game?
Online spectator mode (VT:TV)
What Xbox Live features are included?
Any downloadable content in the future?
Possible patch update to fix a few minor issues?
Any game ideas that didn’t make the final version?
Any tips?
The under-arm serve technique
Will there ever be a Nintendo Wii version of Virtua Tennis 3?

This podcast was actually recorded in July of last year, but originally I was trying to present an edited version with some of the actual music tracks used in the background as we spoke. After many attempts to get this authorised by SEGA, it just wasn’t possible for legal reasons, so here is the podcast without the music.

If I had to place any brand that really introduced me to the world of just beautiful gaming experiences, it has to be SEGA. Covering SEGA Master System , SEGA Mega Drive (Genesis), SEGA 32X , SEGA Mega CD , SEGA Game Gear , SEGA Saturn and of course SEGA Dreamcast .

Joining me are two newcomers to my podcasts. First of all John Boyle who at the time was from Cubed3.com who confessed he has a massive crush on SEGA consoles and games and also taking part is Jam from girl gaming group Frag Dolls UK .

Featured in this episode is:

Sonic the Hedgehog
SEGA Dreamcast Marketing
Dr Robotnik Vs Dr Eggman
Sonic the Hedgehog identity crises?
Sonic Rush – Nintendo DS
Golden Axe – SEGA Mega Drive
John – Balancing SEGA love with Nintendo website
NiGHTS into Dreams – SEGA Saturn
Tomb Raider – SEGA Saturn
SEGA Rally – SEGA Saturn
Quackshot – SEGA Mega Drive
Streets of Rage – SEGA Mega Drive
Slow down actually a spectacle on early consoles?
Sonic the Hedgehog 3 – SEGA Mega Drive
Sonic the Hedgehog CD – SEGA Mega CD
Olympic Gold – SEGA Mega Drive
Rez – SEGA Dreamcast
Outrun – SEGA Mega Drive
Chu Chu Rocket – SEGA Dreamcast
SEGA Dreamcast Keyboard and Mouse
Dead or Alive 2 – SEGA Dreamcast
Those bouncing boobies in Dead or Alive!
Soul Calibur – SEGA Dreamcast
Jet Set Radio – SEGA Dreamcast
Space Channel 5 – SEGA Dreamcast
Shenmue – SEGA Dreamcast
Virtua Tennis – SEGA Dreamcast
Crazy Taxi – SEGA Dreamcast

Recorded on Valentine’s Day, James Woodcock rips himself away from his girlfriend and Barrie Rogers away from his never ending mistress of delight Viva Pinata and delve into the latest news regarding the Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 and Wii and debate the issues.

Also featured is an interview with the Compete Blog [38:45] to discuss there post ‘Xbox 360 Wins the Holiday Battle, But Nintendo’s Wii Positioned to Win the War ‘ with Max Freiert and Matt Pace.

The debate features:

Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter 2 Demo
Unreal Tournament 3 confirmed for Xbox 360
Multi-platform gaming taking over exclusive needs?
Saints Row announced for PS3
Virtua Tennis 3 in 1080p on Xbox 360, but does it mean anything?
Announced Xbox Live Arcade games for February and onwards
Evil marshmallows!
Ode to all things Worms
Call of Duty 3 Map Pack for Xbox 360
Sony say “Nintendo Wii impulse purchase “
Xbox 360 to feature on BBC TV Watchdog
Upcoming content for Rainbow Six Vegas Xbox 360
Barrie and James share their Valentine Card moments
What games do James and Barrie Lurrrvvve at the moment?
Games we are hoping for?
Dead or Alive Xtreme 2 – A complete boob!

With James Woodcock hosting, Barrie Rogers and Anthony Barker have a chat about the Game of the Year article written by Steve Wysowski and voted for by the 360monster.com staff. We also announce the actual overall winner of the 360monster.com Game of the Year award for 2006!

Whether it is bashing zombies over the head, Barrie singing the Viva Pinata tune, Barrie getting all excited over erotic zombie photos, Barrie crashing in Burnout or Anthony with his egg cups award, the latest Console Monster podcast is a must download for those curious about some of the decisions made in this article.

The Game of the Year categories we cover are:

Best Shooter
Best Adventure/Action Game
Best RPG
Best Racing Game
Best Sports Game
Best Graphics
Best Audio
Most Unique Game
Best XBOX LIVE Game
Best Xbox LIVE Arcade Game
Worst Game of the Year

Finally we finish with the major award of the entire show, this is of course Game of the Year nominations and the result for 2006!

I interview Paul Thurrott regarding Microsoft’s latest operating system, Windows Vista . Paul is an independent journalist who loves to cover Microsoft software right from the early stages of its life and past the day of release. He is also featured on his own website ‘SuperSite for Windows ‘ and in a podcast called ‘Windows Weekly ‘ over at the ‘This Week in Tech ‘ website.

Paul is here in this podcast to explain the pros and cons of Windows Vista with his expert opinions and advice for home consumers in particular, who are confused with the countless stories on the Internet.

Topics discussed include:

Paul Thurrott and his websites
Which version of Windows Vista should we buy?
Ultimate Extras
OEM or retail?
Should we wait for better drivers before getting Vista? (Windows Vista Upgrade Adviser )
Should PC gamers wait?
Installation difficulty?
Experimenting with different versions of Vista before deciding which one
New Windows interface design
Features of the new Start menu
Aero Glass just eye candy?
Flip 3D cool?
Copying Mac OS X ?
What is there for PC Gamers?
Does the average home user need a new PC for Windows Vista?
Older software compatibility
Live Anywhere (Live for Windows ) Features
The new Windows Media Center
The new security features of Windows Vista
Has Internet Explorer 7 caught up with the Mozilla Firefox browser?
No one thing, but many small reasons why you should purchase Windows Vista
Features originally planned for Vista Paul is disappointed are missing in final release?
ReadyBoost and ReadyDrive performance features
Sticking with Windows Vista or going back to Windows XP?

You can find screenshots and a review of Windows Vista over at Paul’s website .

In this much shorter edition of the Console Monster podcast as we build up to Podcast #4 which will have a larger debate section, here is the third in our series featuring Vixen from weareversus.com who tantalises us over the phone with her initial impressions of the Nintendo Wii.

Our second interview is with staff member Art Geen, who discusses his personal experience with the Sony PlayStation 3 console.

Vixen topics:

Nintendo Wii a party console only?
Wii60 philosophy believer?
Nintendo Wii Community
Hoarding the Vixen way
Sony PlayStation 3 deliberations
PS3 Sixaxis a Nintendo Wii reaction?
PS3 European delays
Microsoft Xbox 360 or Nintendo Wii at this point?
Zelda love of longevity
Graphics artistic enough to encourage hours of gameplay?

Art topics:

How did you get your PS3?
Online working surprisingly well
Unusual friends system
Interface design
Bluray movie playback
What games are you looking forward to?
Resistance thoughts?
Positives and negatives
Missing rumble?
Sixaxis impressions?
Controller solid feel?
Launch conclusion?

Here is the 2nd Console Monster Podcast hosted by James Woodcock (yes that is me!). In this edition I decided to have a bit more fun with it and also created a new music theme for the show. The music is quite cheesy and has a happy spirit about it, but I really like it and hopefully the majority of listeners will as well! It was played live on a Yamaha Tyros 2 keyboard .

First of all we start with the Halo 3 Beta Competition [00:29] followed by an interview with Max Freiert [02:14] from the Compete Blog regarding the findings in his ‘Xbox 360 Launch 2.0 ‘ which compares how the Nintendo Wii, Sony PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 did at launch recently then finishing with a friendly debate [13:44] with Barrie Rogers and Steve Wysowski covering the following topics:

Steve’s Nintendo Wii first impressions
Graphics or artistic presentation?
Barrie finally comes to the HDTV world
James’s experience with the Xbox 360 HD DVD Drive
Is the Microsoft Xbox 360 coping with the launch of the Nintendo Wii and Sony PlayStation 3?
Xbox 360 one year later
Blue Dragon Rescues the Xbox 360 in Japan?
Barrie’s Phantasy Star Universe first impressions
Sonic the Hedgehog next generation disaster?
Barrie expresses his love for Viva Pinata
Is the Xbox 360 only a mature gamer console?
Halo 3 Trailer

Here is the very first Console Monster Podcast hosted by myself.

Featured in the first edition is an introduction with Anthony Barker, who informs us about the features of 360monster.com and what we can expect in the future with the new network sites PS3monster.com and Wiimonster.com.

The rest of the podcast focuses on a conversational style debate with myself, Anthony Barker and Barrie Rogers who is the 360monster.com lead editor.

This podcast features:

Gears of War first impressions
Viva Pinata expectations
Gears of War 8 players online enough?
Call of Duty 3 first impressions
Halo 2 removed from most played top spot by Gears of War
Rainbow Six Vegas single player and multiplayer demo impressions
Xbox 360 advertisement blitz in the United Kingdom
Halo 3 public multiplayer beta and new Halo 2 maps
New Xbox Live Arcade titles
Retro gaming headache?
Sony PlayStation 3 launch impressions and press
Nintendo Wii launch impressions and press
Red Steel mediocre review score on Gamespot

If you would like to have a question or comment feature in the next podcast, please leave your thoughts on our voicemail service, call UK: –THIS NUMBER IS NO LONGER USED, SORRY– or Worldwide: –THIS NUMBER IS NO LONGER USED, SORRY–.

We recorded this podcast using Skype and the Skylook application.

It has been a while since I created a podcast, I do actually have one that is waiting for permission from a certain publisher, but here is something to keep you going until then…

Jeremy Hague who is responsible for the Skylook application returns (after featuring in Podcast #1 ) to tell us about the new version that was released recently (Skylook 2.0) and how things have changed. Skylook is very useful for myself as I use it to record the interviews through Skype which I make for my podcasts as well as including numerous features that tie in with Outlook the email client by Microsoft.

Topics include:

What is Skylook?
User requests
Features for podcasters
New features in Skylook 2.0
Recording using Skylook
Features for business users
Why Outlook the email client?
Microsoft Office 2007 compatibility
Using the Internet for browsing email
Press feedback
Pricing

To find out more about Skylook, make sure you visit their new website:
http://www.skylook.biz