Oh, and here is the YouTube video of the hacked Donkey Kong game that’s been the talk of the town:

10. Sonya Blade

Photo Source: http://www.gamersky.com/news/201303/227333_14.shtml

Sonya Blade has been one of the most consistently appearing characters in all of the Mortal Kombat gaming franchise ever since it first came out in 1992, which gives ladies some opportunity of playing a girl character and actually whacking the guys and seeing all that blood and gore. For those who have seen the movie back then, her character is the very same as it was portrayed, with her being a member of the US Special Forces and working alongside her comrade, Jax. In the simplest sense, whenever you remember Subzero making enemies into snowmen or Scorpion using his grappling hook to have opponents “come over here”, Sonya is easily remembered as one of the first women to actually create Fatalities with a kiss.

9. Jill Valentine

Photo Source: http://www.fotolog.com/gamer/

Everyone knows Jill Valentine for being one of the playable characters in the zombie video game Resident Evil. Like who would not know one of the most attractive women in video game history who could wield guns and kick undead butt like there’s no tomorrow? Even better, she could carry bazookas, rocket launchers, and high caliber handguns with ease that she can blow Nemesis away like he’s no super zombie. She used to be just a member of the STARS being trapped inside a mansion that full of creepy zombies, and then grew to be a character of her own, even leading a group called BSAA. She is also found as a playable character in Marvel vs Capcom 3, along with Chris and Wesker, original members of the first Resident Evil game in PlayStation One.

8. Princess Peach

Photo Source: http://news.17173.com/content/2010-10-11/20101011162823460,4.shtml

Also known as Princess Toadstool during the first few Mario games, Princess Peach has been in the gaming franchise for so many years now that it is impossible for people not to know anything about her. For one, she is the princess of the Mushroom Kingdom, which Bowser kidnapped in order to compromise the Mario and Luigi tandem. She is also Mario’s love interest and has been playing the role of a victim ever since. However, there is one particular game in Nintendo DS called Super Princess Peach where she plays the main character, having Mario being tied and held prisoner instead.

7. Princess Zelda

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Often mistaken as the main character of the Legend of Zelda gaming franchise as the name is taken after her, Princess Zelda also carries the same profile that Princess Peach has, being held captive in order to be rescued by her knight in shining armor, known as Link. However, Zelda is more of an important character than Peach, knowing that she also intervenes within the story through dreams, memories, and even through the help of fairies or stories from other characters within the game. She also portrayed other roles like being one of the members of the sages, as Shiek, and more.

6. Chun Li

Photo Source: http://clickabs.blogspot.com/2009_07_01_archive.html

Everyone knows Chun Li in Street Fighter II for being one of the most irritating playable characters that can be used by girls when it comes to easily beating the heck out of other experienced players by rapidly pressing the kick button for some high damaging Lightning Kick. But she is more than just a girl that packs powerful kicks. She holds the title of being the “first lady of fighting games” making it really valid that she’s one of the most used characters in fighting game history. There is also more to her costume as she is a law enforcer working to avenge her father’s death, who was killed by Major Bison.

5. Tifa Lockhart

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If there would be anyone that stands in comparison with Lara Croft when it comes to beauty and popularity, then it would be none other than Final Fantasy VII’s Tifa Lockhart. She was first encountered in the game as a member of AVALANCHE, and the owner of the bar, 7^th Heaven, in the slums of Midgar. Her fame rose due to her appearance, one that is characterized by many as an image model of independent, dependable, and strong women that should be a norm in many RPGs. She is definitely more than just a pretty face as she uses hand-to-hand combat, which is seen on how she deals with bosses and enemies all throughout the game.

4. Yuna

Photo Source: http://game.people.com.cn/n/2012/1024/c48627-19371649-10.html

Rinoa Heartily could have made it as being one of the most iconic female video game characters of all time, but her fame was slightly pushed behind the limelight when Yuna of Final Fantasy X appeared at a time when the PlayStation 2 was first introduced to game fans. It was the first time for many to see someone being rendered so well in a gaming console, right after gamers have been used to the sketchy 3D renditions done in the pioneer PlayStation unit where the likes of Tifa Lockhart and Rinoa appeared lovely and very appealing. Yuna became instantly famous for being one of the best looking females to be showcased during the early release of the PS2 in the market, which opened gamers into a whole new world of CG gaming.

3. Mai Shiranui

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Of the many girls that have been known in video game history, there is but one Mai Shiranui that made guys fall in love with ninja girls. And they thought that just like their male counterparts, their clothing and appearance are also shrouded in mystery and concealment. But no, ever since guys knew how Mai looked like from Fatal Fury back in the Sega Genesis days and even in the arcade, fans just can’t stop falling for her absolutely attractive body. In fact, when you ask gamers of whom they prefer as characters in the fighting genre, Mai Shiranui would be a very considerable choice.

2. Kasumi

Photo Source: http://www.free-wallpapers-free.com/preview/dead-or-alive-ultimate-hd-1/

Known to be another favorite of the guys for being a lady ninja as she is, Kasumi of Dead or Alive is being chosen by players for so many reasons. One of those reasons is that she looks great in various costumes, which can be accessed by unlocking features through achievements within the game. After all, gamers are looking at her as a very soft choice, being all cute, and seventeen years of age. Despite of the cute appearance however, her moves are actually lethal in a sense that players could utilize her kunoichi skills that connects powerful combos and high-damaging maneuvers. When it comes to playing fighting games, Kasumi, aside from Mai, is another of the most popular and iconic characters in the most recent gaming generation.

1. Lara Croft

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When you are looking for someone who can venture into ruins, mysterious ancient cities, and conquer dungeons with a touch of class and sexiness, then there is no other person to call than the ever knowledgeable, witty, and beautiful Lara Croft of the Tomb Raider gaming franchise. You have seen her being portrayed in the movie by none other than Angelina Jolie, which actually resembles her greatly. She was considered one of the best gaming icons of all time since she is a holder of over six different Guinness World Record titles and has appeared on various forms of media.

10. Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance

Photo Source: http://www.forbes.com/sites/jasonevangelho/2012/09/30/hurts-so-good-metal-gear-rising-revengeance-hands-on-preview/

This action video game was originally titled Metal Gear Solid: Rising in 2009, which was supposed to be the interquel between the Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty and the Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty. However, the 9^th game of the series was set in a plot four years after the event of the Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots. In this game, you will take the character of the cyborg ninja, Raiden, in his battles against the private military company Desperado Enterprises. This katana-wielding ally of Solid Snake was initially playable in his “white” form based in his appearance in the ‘Guns of the Patriots’ where he wears a white armor. However, at some point in the game he switched into a powerful “black” cyborg, which draws extra energy from “Zan-Datsu” kills, though you can alter his appearance unlike in the other series. This action-oriented game focuses more on sword fighting and sophisticated cutting defense system to beat the enemies. Though Raiden has his high-frequency blade as his main weapon, he can also wield other blades that he can obtain from defeating the game’s bosses.

9. Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn

Photo Source: http://segmentnext.com/2013/02/22/final-fantasy-xiv-a-realm-reborn-closed-beta-begins-next-week/

Though it received negative reaction from its first launched in September 2010, this MMORPG was re-launched again with its original game setting, traditions and story but with new graphics engine, data structure and server. It was revamped with new interface, gameplay variations, redesigned maps, and additional story content. The game takes you to the fictional land of Erzoa where you can create and customize your avatars as you participate in the impending invasion of the Garden Empire. You can select your character from various pre-selected options such as gender, race, job type, and facial features. After which, you will now be taken into the game world where you can explore the landscapes, fight off monsters, interact with other players, and complete quests and missions. Unlike in the other series, you will now have the option to play third- or first-person view.

8. Grand Theft Auto IV

Photo Source: http://ps3ego.de/playstation-3/gta-v-veroeffentlichung-2012/

In this open-world action adventure video game, which is an offshoot to the Grand Theft Auto series, you will assume the character of Niko Bellic, a veteran from a war in Eastern Europe as he came to the United States in search of his own American Dream. Set in the fictional Liberty City, you will follow his adventures as he got entangled with gangs, corruption and crimes. GTA IV combined the elements of driving games, third-person shooters and an open world gameplay with features that allow for multiplayer modes. This game is more accessible than the other series as it provides the ability to pilot helicopters, steer boats, and climb obstacles aside from driving cars.

7. Battlefield 2

Photo Source: http://battlefieldinformer.com/f172/battlefield-2-overview-1884/

The sequel to the bestseller war Battlefield franchise, this online multiplayer game will take you to another realm as you fight battles in a modern-era battleground. Using modern realistic weapon systems and vehicles, this single-player first-person shooter game takes some strategy and RPG elements as you fight with the armies from China, the US Marines, and other fictional Middle East Coalition. The new game also features a dynamic stage limiting system that scales the size of the battle depending on the numbers of players, aside from physics and sounds and improved visuals. Meanwhile, the multiplayer feature allows you to organize with other players to form into squads under the leadership of one commander for teamwork. While you can play for any of the opposing factions as represented on the map, the main objective of the game is to reduce the opposing team tickets, which represent the army’s ability to reinforce their position. You can also add to your global player stats, which are used for awards and promotions, by playing on ranked servers.

6. Assassin’s Creed III

Photo Source: http://www.buykey.fr/

In this high-packed action game, you will assume the role of Desmond, a barman who finds himself imprisoned in the top secret lab of the Templars-run Abstergo Corporation. Desmond, a former member of the modern-day faction called Assassin Brotherhood and a descendant of one of its original member, must try to find the artifacts “Pieces of Eden” using his ‘genetic memories.’ These artifacts can allegedly give its possessor the power of mind control, which the Templars are trying to use to conquer the entire world. Your “health” within the game is dependent on Desmond’s accurate memories of his ancestors and when it is 100%, you can have the “eagle vision,” which highlights all characters as red and blue to help you determine whether they are friends or enemies. This groundbreaking series uses the elements of historical fantasy, science fiction, and stealth.

5. Need for Speed: Most Wanted

Photo Source: http://www.hitphone.fr/need-for-speed-most-wanted-en-cavale-art-3687-1.html

The latest installment in the fourth generation series of “Need for Speed,” Most Wanted takes you to an extensive open world-packed racing with exhilarating actions as you choose your own path to be number one in the most wanted list. In this video racing game, you are allowed to drive anywhere, search for hidden gameplay, beat your rivals, challenge your friends or hang out with them, and drive the cops crazy. You can see most of the cars from the start, while some are hidden in different locations. It also features a blacklist of 10 instead of 15, aside from the performance upgrades available for all the cars including bodywork, nitrous, tires, and chassis.

4. Prince of Persia

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A game that was spun from a Walt Disney movie, the Prince of Persia is an action-packed game that chronicled the adventures of the prince set in ancient Persia. Its new version picks up on the series wherein the unnamed Prince encountered the evil god of Darkness called Ahriman. You will assume the role of the prince as you traverse myriads of new environments using your acrobatic skills. The gameplay is similar with other spin-offs like the “Sands of Time,” as you combat enemies to cleanse the land from corruption.

3. Starcraft II: Wings of Liberty

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The continuation of the epic saga of three distinct races: Zerg, Terran and Protoss, this game chronicled their clashes as they fight once again in a fast-paced real-time strategy game in the sequel to the original Starcraft. It also promises the releases of new expansions called “Heart of the Swarm,” which focuses on the Zergs to be released on March 12, 2013; and the “Legacy of the Void,” which focuses on the Protoss race. The continuation of Starcraft: Brood of War shows the struggles of each faction with their legions of veterans with brand-new unit types, specifically the exploits of marshal-turned-rebel leader Jim Raynor. Throughout the 29-mission campaign, you can choose your own mission path and select the technology and upgrades tailored to your needs. The improved version also offers new features such as character profiles with their achievements, voice communication, stat-tracking, and more.

2. World of Warcraft: Mists of Pandaria

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Building on the foundation from the first three installments in the WoW series, the fourth installment offers plenty of high-level content from levels 85to 90, which makes it the most popular MMO among experienced players. Though the core experience remains the same, it offers continual pursuits wherein you will find that obtaining better items can result in more challenging quests. Though this motion game offers the same formula, which makes playing the whole WoW series rewarding; the Mist of Pandaria is its finest form yet with its fast-paced, quick in-game cut-scenes, voiced dialogue, and story-heavy experience that will never take you out of the action for long.

1. Prototype

Photo Source: http://gamescreens.org/prototype/

In this game, you are Alex Mercer who wakes up in a morgue with no memory but also possesses extraordinary powers. A mysterious virus has break out in New York City, which turns everyone into savage mutants. The military has been called in to quarantine the city. Since you can shape shift and absorb other beings, you are now the most powerful life form in the entire city. This single-player game has 31 missions from simple clashes, escort missions, and colossal boss battles. This is like any open-world games where you will be required to do repetitive tasks. You will also have some side missions where you can earn some Evolve Points (EP) to upgrade your abilities and powers. This game also employs the ‘deceive or destroy’ gameplay where you can choose to blend in with the population and progress through the story, or become a killing machine as you move through New York City and leave destruction at your wake.

10. Appliances Level Up

Photo Source: http://www.tweaktown.com/news/27694/samsung_ces_2013_press_conference_live/index.html

Samsung created a refrigerator that can help you access Google Calendar, create lists via Evernote, and also check the weather. If you think that’s impressive, then you won’t believe that the refrigerator can adjust freezer capacity or revert space to ref at the touch of a button, which is truly amazing. HAPIfork actually tracks how many servings you took, how heavy each serving is, and how fast you eat. When it notices that you are on the eating rage, it vibrates and emit lights just to warn you of your changing eating habits.

9. Techno for the Music

Photo Source: http://www.techradar.com/news/audio/hi-fi-radio/pure-adds-to-multi-room-music-lineup-with-new-speakers-hi-fi-adaptor-1123056 

Pure chose the CES 2013 in making the ground even with Sonos when it comes to providing multi-room audio streaming. Jongo, which comes in bright colors and fancy sizes, can start streaming audio from one WiFi or Bluetooth device, and distributing audio all over an area where these speakers are interconnected. Philips is changing the audio home theater game with its HTL9100, which has a similarity with the wings of a plane. You can actually divide it so that you could have a surround sound experience, without the cables, as they are connected wirelessly.

8. Storages Size Up

Photo Source: http://www.ubergizmo.com/2013/01/seagate-wireless-plus-hdd/

This year, Seagate improves its GoFlex Satellite product by giving it twice the battery life, smaller size, sleeker look, and better functionality for PCs, smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs, with the new Wireless Plus. Thanks to its DLNA and AirPlay-capable functionality, devices can connect to this baby via WiFi in order to have real-time storage in the home. It also comes with 1 Terabyte for starters. Kingston also introduced another world’s first: a 1TB USB 3.0 Flash Drive called the Hyper Predator.

7. Gadget Monitoring with Networking

Photo Source: http://thenextweb.com/gadgets/2013/01/07/ces-new-products-tap-into-personal-data-but-how-much-i-is/

Delphi and Verizon teamed up to create Vehicle Diagnostics. It is a small device that can be placed in a vehicle that can be used for monitoring car health, location, and condition. It can also control basic functions like locking/unlocking the doors, or remote starting, all via a smartphone. Tetherboard also came up with a way to control the batteries inside a device, via a battery-shaped Bluetooth gagdet that can be inserted in anything that runs through an AAA battery. You can deactivate it when not in use or activate it when you want to control an equipment or toy, without the need of removing the batteries. Roccat Power-Grid lets you control your PC via a smartphone app and a program installed on both ends. You can check on your email, social networking accounts, and even online games, without being in front of the monitor.

6. Huge Touchscreens and Tables

Photo Source: http://www.examiner.com/article/lenovo-introduces-ideacentre-horizon-table-pc-at-ces-2013

We have seen tech top technologies evolve from one device to another. There was desktop, palmtop, laptop, and now it’s tabletop. Lenovo created its IdeaCentre Horizon Tabletop PC, which can be used for browsing, playing games, and doing anything else, while everything is on the table. It was 27 inches when introduced but Lenovo plans on doing a 37-inch model. 3M also touted another tabletop, but this time, using a screen of over 2 meters that is 100% touch screen, with no idle sides.

5. Virtual and Augmented Reality Gaming

Photo Source: http://ces.cnet.com/8301-34441_1-57563185/hands-on-oculus-rift-vr-headset/

The Oculus Rift VR headset may provide old and curious game fans a trip back to memory lane, when playing VR was merely playing a video game while wearing enclosed glasses. However, this unit may change gaming for good, especially being intuitive for FPS games as control and view moves the same way as the head. While augmented reality games currently have limited choices for both iOS and Android, it is rare to have existing objects being used as part of a gaming environment. Sphero, an iOS-controlled game ball, can be used as a controlled character in other games, giving you a feel of actually playing in a realistic environment.

4. Nvidia’s Project Shield

Photo Source: http://www.gadgetreview.com/2013/01/ces-2013-nvidia-announces-project-shield-12-things-you-need-to-know-about-the-mobile-gaming-pcconsole-hybrid-android-device-list.html

There was Nintendo Wii U in the latter part of 2012 and some are waiting for the dawn of the PS4 and the XBox 720. While these names and brands may be more of a household name, Nvidia introduces its very own gaming console called Project Shield. This new gaming device is actually a gaming controller that has two analog sticks, a D-pad, four command buttons, and additional five buttons in the middle for settings and interaction. This also has speakers and a flip-screen that makes this device a mobile game device, operated via Android Jellybean.

3. 4K and 4-powered Tablet PCs

Photo Source: http://www.ibtimes.co.uk/articles/422473/20130109/panasonic-4k-tablet-preview.htm

Tablets will still remain in the tech market and there are two devices in CES that may set the trend of what will come out in the next coming months. Panasonic made its statement, unexpectedly, with a 20-inch Windows 8 tablet that has 4K resolution graphics. This may be something big, but it may eventually come into good use as both consumers and manufacturers think of a way of how this will sell. On the other hand, Vizio also stunned spectators of the first tablet that has been powered by an Nvidia quad-core Tegra 4 processor. And since this is Vizio, buyers can be excited knowing that such a device can be purchased cheaper from most competitors.

2. 4K Resolution TVs

Photo Source: http://reviews.cnet.com/flat-panel-tvs/samsung-110-inch-4k/4505-6482_7-35567550.html

Samsung, Sony, and LG have shown the future of TV in a whole new way. It was not just about the new looks or the quality of images on the screen, more importantly, viewers may be experiencing the view of a 1080p HD quality that four times the size, which still gives crisp, colorful, and smooth graphics even on an 85-inch screen. While this may be a nice addition to the home, you may have to shell out about $20,000 once these babies are sold in the market.

1. Smartphone Mania

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On one side, Huawei presented its 6.1-inch phablet “smartphone tablet” hybrid that touts as a competitor to Samsung Galaxy Note II, without the heavy expense. Sony Xperia Z has also introduced in the mobile world, the first of its type to have a 13-megapixel camera and can even be dipped in water for over 30 minutes, with its HzO technology. But what stole the show was the first Flexible OLED phones from Samsung, called the Youm. It has a flexible screen that is curved on one side, which can be used as a notification section that lets you read messages even when your smartphone is covered. To show how the screen can be a game-changer, it was even curved, folded, and twitched, without damaging graphics or showing lag of any form.

One thing that is quite unique with technology these days is that it keeps itself updated year after year. We have seen the battle between the iPhone 5 and the Samsung Galaxy SIII and Note 2. Will the same war wage for 2013? Are there new technologies and innovations that will be introduced in this coming year? With the news that are coming out of what to expect with the developments of computers and gadgets, you may not be able to grasp it all. So without further adieu, here are the top 10 tech predictions of 2013, making sure that you become as updated as most people are.

10. The War Wages On

Google, Apple, and Microsoft have already begun the fight for digital supremacy whether it involved the sphere of operating systems, multiple device support, smartphones, applications, and tablets just recently. The competition shows no signs of stopping and we will yet see another war between the three tech giants.

9. Smart TVs Will Become Smarter

Sony and Samsung, among many other competitors are making an edge with Smart TV that unified TV-watching with internet browsing by having WiFi sensors on the TV, which provides a whole new dimension to using HDTVs. And since this is a developing market, it may not be too soon when people will see Apple invade this tech field.

8. New Devices Will Come Out in the Market

For smartphones, fanboys and tech freaks are already anticipating the release of Apple’s iPhone 5S, which was based on the trend of the iPhone 3, 3GS, 4, and 4S. If the Cupertino tech company devices some new design or concept, rather than improving on inner specs, then we may be expecting the iPhone 6 sometime in October. The Samsung Galaxy SIV is also under wraps and may be unveiled as another game changer, as what has been seen with the dawn of the SIII. PS4 and XBox 720 may also be released within the year, taking advantage of deeper video gaming together with more powerful graphics processors.

7. Data Plans and Contracts will Slowly Deter

In the US and in most parts of the world, telecom services are offering data, calling, and SMS plans at prices that are sometimes considered over the top, especially when it involves a tie up with more expensive gadgets. This is one reason why only the rich are taking benefit of such offers. However, there is a growing trend of purchasing prepaid plans that offer cheaper services for mobile internet, calling, and texting, which will someday opt users to buy unlocked devices and resort to more economic telecom solutions.

6. Apps Will Now Involve Enterprise Levels

Back at the time when the first apps have been launched, it was benefiting the masses that wanted free apps, games, and other applications that make user experience easy and convenient. With such focus, the security for such apps have been kept low, making way for viruses, hacks, and other infiltrations, compromising account information and devices being affected. Now that the world is recognizing the massive use of smartphones and tablets that utilize WiFi and mobile connections, security has also tightened and became stricter, making apps accessible to corporate and enterprise users.

5. The Cloud Will Increase in Expanse

When the cloud was first introduced to the masses, they were delighted with the fact that people can now save their files and other information outside their computers and other tangible devices. Also, doing the same process gives them the access to retrieve their files wherever, whenever, or however they want to, as long as internet connection is available. This year, expect the support to be bigger, wider, and better, with more applications and products using such methods.

4. 3D Printers Will Find Their Way in Business

The idea of printing 3D images with the use of a program and modified plastic has become a reality back in 2012. There was even one person who had gained a slot in Nintendo’s empire for creating Koopa shells with wheels as a remote controlled car, thanks to a 3D printer. With such creations providing wonders, more and more people may be interested of what can be done with such for markets, creators, and even at-home consumers.

3. Flexible Touch Sensors Will be More Exposed Than Ever

If you could recall some of the tech conventions in the last 3 years, you may have seen flexible screens being developed by Nokia, Corning, and other companies. Some have been surprised that you can still see digital images in full integrity even when you bend the flexible glass, while utilizing touch sensors. It would be more like you are using a smartphone that can bend like crazy. If it had been possible with glass, other developments that include metals, plastics, and fiber may also be processed for this coming-of-age technology.

2. Utilization of Internet and Mobile Connections in the Physical World

Some have already seen NFC technologies being used as entry services in railways, transit, and even in movies while others have and there are also moving vehicles that provide free WiFi connections during travel. The business world is looking for more ways to integrate digital innovations and physical presence. For example, with the use of sensors, people can now be connected to internet servers, and mobile phones become gateways to interacting with other services that exists in stores, restaurants, kiosks, and more.

1. Mobile Technology Becomes Even More Mobile

In the recent years, people have seen mobile phones that have pierced through the market. Smartphones such as BlackBerry, Apple, Nokia, Google, LG, HTC, Samsung, and Motorola among others have gained fast-pacing recognition to consumers, thanks to apps that are easily downloaded, providing a whole new experience in mobile technology. Tablet PCs have also changed the game back in 2012. In 2013, expect a whole new age as mobile becomes wearable with wristwatches, buttons, eyeglasses, and even shoes.

10. Coby Kyros

The Coby Kyros can be considered as a cheaper choice for those who would like to have a tablet experience without the overwhelming cost being slapped by more expensive names and products. For $250, you can take this tablet as something that your kids can get, in case they are not too picky with quality and graphics. Everything else can be tolerable but incomparable with costly high-end tabs in the market.

9. Archos Arnova 7FG3

For something that costs less than $300, you could now hold a Google Ice Cream Sandwich in your hands, which can be next to impossible if you are eyeing for brands that are more known such as Samsung, Apple, or Google. Specs can be considered as average, although there are some users stating that there are occasions when the response of the touchscreen is not 100% consistent. Despite of that however, you can play games with this, and you can also do other things that an average tablet can accommodate.

8. Acer Iconia Tab A110

Acer is indeed making its way in the tablet market with the offering of the Tab A110, which is bound to be sold by the end of October. Although the iPad Mini came in a lot earlier than Acer’s tablet did, this little baby would still sell great, knowing that it has the latest Jellybean OS from Android, and wearing the $230 price tag. It may be a bit more expensive than the Google Nexus 7 due to some features that may not be available in the best iPad alternative.

7. Blackberry Playbook

The Blackberry Playbook is just as powerful and as dependable like its smartphones that are taking place in the market.  In fact, its specs are beyond standard that you can do multitasking and even watching movies or playing games with ease; without that much of lagging and slowdowns. It also comes with full features such as Flash support, Adobe Mobile AIR, and other graphics-rich upgrades that gives this tablet a choice of being eye candy.

6. Amazon Kindle Fire

Amazon started in the eBook reading industry with a tablet that offers electronic ink that gives something special to eBook readers everywhere. However, as markets have changed and the same tablet is now viewed as a smaller and more portable version of the laptop, Amazon has shifted its market from being solo to becoming competitive in the tablet market. Kindle Fire is their first, but the said device can be at par with some devices produced long-before.

5. Samsung Galaxy Tab 7.7

Samsung has been well known to be one of the companies that have taken the Android operating system into fame in the market, whether it is in the smartphone or tablet PC platform. And with the presentation of the Galaxy Tab 7.7, many users found this device to be powerful in its generation. At the time that Honeycomb 3.2 was standard, there were not so many companies that are giving out dual-core processor speeds for the device as a solo-core is more than satisfactory when it comes to performance. However, knowing that Samsung being a game-changer and all makes this tablet a remarkable success.

4. Barnes & Noble Nook HD

Just like Amazon, Barnes & Noble has been famous for providing online readers a place where they could purchase eBooks and have it read whatever method is available. Understanding the eBook reading has become rampant, they have resorted into following what Amazon has done: creating their own tablet for reading. Their products shifted from simple monochromatic eBook reading tablets to HD ones that stands at par with iPads and other tablets out there. The $199 price tag is also not so bad of an offer with such nice features.

3. Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 7.0

Being touted as a great travel buddy by Samsung’s own ads, the 7-inch Galaxy Tab 2 provides everything that a full-sized tablet would offer; at speeds that are as decent and performance as powerful. Whether you use it for finding directions, listening to music, browsing for images, taking pictures, or reading eBooks, this new Galaxy tab does it all with ease.

2. Amazon Kindle Fire HD

Being a bit pricier than its predecessor, the Amazon Kindle Fire HD didn’t just cost more because it’s new, but the minor price increase provide many things that you cannot imagine. For one, having the HD screen makes you enjoy movies with crisp details, magazine covers with stunning colors, and games that are just dandy to see and play with.

1. Asus Google Nexus 7

Standing as the greatest contender against the iPad Mini, Google Nexus 7 by Asus has specs that can make the latest Apple device bleed. The processor alone should be more than enough statement that the new mini iPad, although it claims that it’s as fast as it can be, with an A5 processer in a smaller frame. Graphics is also nothing when compared to the smaller iPad as many are claiming that display quality was totally unexpected to be less than expectations. Everything else is just nailed when comparing iPad Mini with this new Nexus tablet for Google. The worst part is that the Nexus 7 costs way cheaper than Apple…

10. Shawn Johnson Gymnastics

You may have seen Shawn Johnson perform gymnastic feats during the World Championship and even in the Olympics where she won gold and silver medals balance beams and floor exercises. But have you ever imagined to be trained by her, helping you become the best gymnast that you could be? Perhaps it may be considered as fantasy, but thanks to Shawn Johnson Gymnastics now available in Nintendo Wii, you can now the pursue the path of being an amateur to champion gymnast within Leaping Hill Academy, where you will use your Wii Remote, Nunchuk, and Balance Board gaming accessories in order to participate and practice in balance beams, the vault, the floor, and the uneven bars. You can even play in Career Mode to see your progress or get head to head with other players via the Multiplayer Mode.

9. Michael Phelps: Push the Limits

It is now known in all of Olympic History that Michael Phelps is the most decorated swimmer and Olympian of all time. But have you ever imagined of swimming with him in the same Olympic-sized pool, even more, competing against him? With Michael Phelps: Push the Limits in XBox 360; you can now have the opportunity of becoming a great swimmer using your Kinect and some fast motion skills on your part. Get to play in Career Mode and hear some helpful advice and tips on how to swim and move fast on water and even in Multiplayer Mode where you get to battle out with a friend. You can also enjoy a Party Mode that has 8 different players in total that consists of two teams of four players where the fun goes fast pacing, exhilarating, and exciting.

8. Vancouver 2010

With 14 different Olympic events, 24 countries to choose from, and gaming modes that change almost every event that you play, the Official Olympic Games for Vancouver 2010 offers a decent Olympic flare for game fans, especially to those players who love the feel of snow in their screen. Experience racing down the snow-covered mountains via a snowboard or a pair of skis, or speeding your way through the chute via bobsledding, or playing luge and skeleton, where your remote control could force you into pairing different buttons to add on the fun. After all, there isn’t much sport to do in the snow, except of course you could think of something new to add to the event.

7. Beijing 2008

What makes Beijing 2008 better than that of Vancouver 2010 is the variety of games that can be played in just one sitting. With over 38 different events from over 10 sports, you have a lot of things coming. Not only will you be engaged with varying playing modes every time you switch from one sport to another, but you will also find yourself studying the tutorials every once in a while, all because the buttons and variations of using the game controller can be as varied as it can be. Choose between Track, Field, Aquatics, Gymnastics, Shooting, combined sports, and other events such as Weightlifting, Archery, Kayaking, Judo, and even Table Tennis. You can also play on your own or beat other challengers in the Multiplayer Mode.

6. Deca Sports

Deca Sports from Nintendo Wii presents 10 different sports that you can play with. Although it has nothing to do much with Olympic titles in general, it is being played by many sports fans in the quest of playing various sports that are not included in the usual Olympic game lineups. Badminton, Beach Volleyball, Super Cross, Basketball, Archery, Soccer, Snowboarding, Figure Skating, Go Karting, and Curling are the games that you will use your energy to. You can decide whether you want to play the game on your own, with some friends or family members, or the rest of the online community via the Multiplayer Tour. Use your Nunchuk and the Wii Remote in order to beat the odds and prove your skill and sportsmanship.

5. Mario & Sonic at the Winter Olympic Games (Vancouver 2010)

With the actual Vancouver 2010 Official Olympic Games being a bit stale for game enthusiasts, both Nintendo and Sega have thought of a way to make the said Olympic game have a funnier, livelier, and more entertaining option, as Mario and Sonic the Hedgehog finds their way in the winter games. Aside from having some Mario and Sonic characters come into play, you will also find certain game modes interesting as some actual events have been enhanced for sheer gaming pleasure. Think of ice hockey, snowboard halfpipe, and even snowball fights brimming with excitement and enjoyment, while using characters like Yoshi, Bowser, Tails, Knuckles, and even Princess Peach. Playing solo could be one thing, but you could also use the Multiplayer Coop or versus for more fun. In case you got your Miis all set up, you can even add them to the game and customize many things.

4. Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games (Beijing 2008)

Many gaming fans have dreamt of what it would be like to have Nintendo’s Mario and Sega’s Sonic get head to head in battle, and finally settling it once and for all, as to who is the best in the gaming world. And what better way is there to prove who the best is between the two, but by the Olympic Games, being a great way of showing, who really kicks butt. With the Beijing 2008 serving as a battle arena for Nintendo and Sega characters, you can use anyone of them, whether it would be Luigi, Tails, Princess Peach, Knuckles the Echidna, and many others. Having this dream-come-true concept, you could enjoy playing at over 24 different events with 14 varying gaming mechanics that could break the boredom, making you really spend a lot of time mastering all of the mini-games available.

3. Wii Sports

Do you believe in the saying that “first love never dies”? Whether you do or not, Wii Sports is one of the best attestations that first love indeed never dies. Known to be the very first game ever released for the Nintendo Wii upon launch, Wii Sports became a norm in every home that has a Wii. As a matter of fact, the game received citations, excellent review marks, and even awards such as being the “Game of the Year” in 2009, even beating Super Mario sold with the same console. Even though it had only five sports such as Tennis, Boxing, Baseball, Golf, and Bowling, it was able to utilize the Wii Remote and Nunchuk at a very amazing level.

2. London 2012

With the Summer Olympics just over in the middle part of August 2012, and the Paralympics being under way, fans and sports enthusiast cannot wait for the next wave of events, happening in 2016, which would take a little bit of waiting. However, if you want to relive the experience and even take part in the winning of many players known to make names in this year’s Olympic event, then playing the Official London 2012 Olympics video game could satisfy your lacking. It has 2 events for Archery, 9 in Aquatics, 2 in Gymnastics, 2 in Shooting, 10 in Track and Field, along with other sports such as Beach Volleyball, Canoe Slalom, Cycling, Rowing, Table Tennis, and Weightlifting. You can choose to represent over 36 countries, which you can boost by playing the Online Multiplayer Mode, where you can collect medals in presenting your national pride.

1.  Mario & Sonic at the London 2012 Olympics

Making it on the number one spot is the funnier, lighter, and more entertaining version of the London 2012 Olympics. In fact, even during the advertisements alone, players cannot help but get excited, knowing that this year’s Olympics can be played in a better perspective with Mario, Sonic, and the rest of the gang. You can now choose games on the categories of speed, power, skill, and all-around, depending on your playing preference, or just putting your playing limits to the test. In case you are looking for fun, even better than what is being offered already, you can experience the Dream Events, where actual Olympic games are hyped up into a whole new level.

10. First City that Hosted Olympics Thrice

London is the only city in the history of Olympics where it hosted this event thrice. It happened in 1908 and 1948, and for the third time for this year 2012. Although the United States held the record of the number of most Summer Olympics accommodated, it were held in various states.

9. First Paralympics

It will be the second time around to have two important events be held and done in the city of London. The first Paralympics was held in London in 1948, and for the second time, London will host these same athletic games.

8. Boxing Competition for Women

It is also the first time where boxing competition for women is included in the overall program of Olympic Games. This will be introduced in London 2012 wherein there would be three events in this field.

7. Broadcast in 3D

The Panasonic Company will provide the broadcast in HD and 3D wherein the last 2008 Olympics, it only had HD. For this year, it is expected that majority of the spectators and viewers would experience a high-defined and clearer view wherein one would feel that he or she is just watching in the living room.

6. Inclusion of Soccer Team

The England Soccer team player has decided to play again in London Olympics 2012 after they competed in 1984. Their country is excited because the last champions have brought home the beacon of success in 1900 and 1908, where they won gold. It’s their comeback this year, and they are at it again in their home and their land, London.

5. Women’s Football at the Opening

The flow of the program has been revisited and there is a great change made from by the hosting country and other people who chaired the overall events. For the first time, Women’s Football will do the opening event as a mark that London 2012 begins. Moreover, women from Saudi Arabia will be competing this year, which is another scoop to look forward to that embarks neutrality of men and women in physical activities.

4. The Velodrome

This is the first Olympic park which is also one of the primary venues for Olympics 2012. It is a very efficient building which was developed based on the projected time and budget that has a roof that covers the whole venue. It aims to maximize the natural ventilation than utilizing the typical air-conditioning setup of any structure in the world.

3. Public Transportation

During the planning process, the whole team who are leading the preparation did focus on the public transport during the arrivals. In fact, they have built Javelin, which is the brand new fastest train that could run from King’s Cross Station to Stratford International. It will take a 7-minute travel time that could carry over 25,000 passengers if you are coming from Central London and heading to Olympic park in an hour.

2. Eco-Friendly Games

London may have allotted too much of the budget for overall preparations for this event, definitely, they are keeping to their objective, which they have been doing for decades. They continue their eco-friendly environment for all the athletes, spectators, and other visitors from different countries who would cover the many events and watch the games. It is their commitment to shun-off negative emissions from public transports that they have developed down to the venue of the games.

1. First Stadium 

Compared to the other stadiums that were used for main venues for the past Olympics held in various countries, it is the first stadium that has an 80,000-seating capacity created that has very light structure, while maintaining the environment friendly surroundings. It has giant screens and it’s the third largest stadium ever built in the country.

Note: The rank has been based on the comparison of vital specs for graphic cards such as Memory Compositions such as Bus Size, Storage Size, and Memory Bandwidth. One specification in this part can compensate for another card’s weakness. Also Graphics Clock speed is vital to data processing of images when meeting demands of pixilation, shading, and other effects that supply whatever is needed for OpenGL and DirectX supporting games. An below are 10 best graphic cards 2012

10. NVIDIA GeForce GTX 660 Ti

9. AMD Radeon HD 6970

8. AMD Radeon HD 5970

7. AMD Radeon HD 7950

6. NVIDIA GeForce GTX 670

5. AMD Radeon HD 7970

4. NVIDIA GeForce GTX 680

3. NVIDIA Geforce GTX 590

2. AMD Radeon HD 6990

1. NVIDIA GeForce GTX 690

PSP 3000 vs PS Vita vs PSP Go

See Also: Best PS Vita Games

10. Dimensions

On the dimensions side, the PSP Go perfectly serves its call of being the most portable of the portable as it is small in length, small in height, and thinner, despite of having a slide down gaming pad behind the screen. Weight wise, even though it has never been mentioned here, the PSP Go still claims the title of being the lightest portable device in the PSP generation.

9. Game Genre Support

All gaming devices have been created to cater to as much gaming genres as possible. PSP cannot have augmented reality games as flawless as possible, but PS Vita does. Thanks to geotagging with GPS, face detection and capture via the front cameras, and even augmentation with the use of rear cameras or touch screens, it is as if you are looking to reality with a different eye, using the PS Vita.

8. Play Mode Support

The PSP Lite and the PSP Go have the capability of connecting with the PlayStation 3 where you can pause the game on the PS 3 and continue it on the handhelds. These things can work with a WiFi network that connects both devices. However, the PS Vita does not only work with Remote Play but also with Cross Play where you can interact or use the handheld real time, not just as a separate gaming system of its own, but also as a remote control while playing the PS 3, crossing the bounds of a usual PSP.

7. Social Networking App Support

It has been a long time ago since the PSP Lite and the PSP Go have been supporting Skype as it has already been embedded on the system for use, whenever you are connected to WiFi. However, the PS Vita takes social networking to a dedicated level where you can use apps that have been specifically developed for the handheld device. Facebook, FourSquare, and Twitter can be used without all the complexities in making yourself believe that you can access FB directly using the PSP.

6. Main Input / Output

The PSP Go may be a bit higher than the PSP Lite when it comes to connectivity due to Bluetooth capability, but the “Go” may be too slow compared to the PS Vita that has a lot of ways on interacting with games and other programs within the system. 3G is one unique feature that activates GPS support, cameras can be used for face detection, and touch screens are utilized for more in-depth game interaction and control. The motion sensors also provide a new way of enjoying games depending on your tilting ability.

5. Keys and Switches

The buttons are almost the same for all units, especially with PSP Lite and PSP Go. However, The PS Vita is putting up something different, such as dual analog sticks that can be utilized by FPS players where one analog stick is for movement while the other can be allocated for camera motion. Also, the switches have become lesser, where other functions can be accessed directly via the screen with touch screen capabilities.

4. RAM and Storage

RAM is one determinant in knowing the speed of the system in processing graphics, functions, and other operations. The PSP Lite and PSP Go have basic RAM storage that makes it just okay to carry out few and limited multiple tasks. However, the PS Vita exceeds so much from the predecessors, even with just the RAM alone, being 8 times larger. It even has a dedicated RAM for video processing of 128MB, which proves why video clarity and quality is much more visible.

3. Battery Life

The logic behind the figures above is based on the support being accessed by the following devices. The PS Vita may have the lowest battery life available due to the power demanded in processor performance, screen capability, and graphic engine operation. However, be aware that the battery time of the Vita has all capabilities, such as Volume and Screen Brightness set at maximum. This only means that it can still extend standby time and operation time when settings are set on standard.

2. Display

The PSP Lite and the PSP Go does not have that much of a difference in display quality, except for the 0.5-inch variable due to the more portable concept of the PSP Go. The PS Vita however, is quite recognizable when it comes to screen quality due to the diodes being used, specifically OLED. It has the same 16 million colors with the previous two handhelds, but the pixilation is twice as big from the other two, which results to crispier and cleaner lines or details, despite the inconsistencies found in certain games. It also makes the PS Vita a perfect device for viewing movies, videos, and even fast-pacing or heavy graphic games.

1. Central Processing Unit (CPU)

Based on these specs alone, both the PSP Lite and the PSP Go are of no match with that of PS Vita because its processor can be more than four times as powerful. The PS Vita has been designed not just to meet the demands of games that have more hardcore 3D graphics, shadows, textures, and even audio, but also with multitasking duties in playing music, activating 3G or WiFi, and even utilizing social networks.

PS Vita Features and Specs

See Also: PS Vita Games

10. Front and Rear Cameras

PS Vita now has a VGA front and 1.3MP rear camera that makes it possible for players to experience gaming in a different perspective, such as shooting pictures or incorporating real visuals to that in the games that you play, real time. You can capture videos with decent quality at 640×480 in 60 frames per second.

9. Six-Axis Motion Sensors

You can now interact or operate games at a different caliber, thanks to its six-axis motion sensors that can enable you to touch, steer, and even tilt your gaming device to meet some play functions. That would be three-axis gyroscope and accelerometer, plus three-axis electronic compass in specification. This is great for zooming, playing racing games, enhancing environmental controls, or even just feeling something new while playing motion-demanding games.

8. Rear Touch Pad

You may have thought that the game pads, analog sticks, the upper left and right buttons, are more than enough to provide you a gaming experience that can make an engaging play in the many available games. However, if you are just tired of interacting on the front part of the handheld device, you can touch the back part of the PS Vita, where the patterned section at the back of the screen is working as another touchpad for you.

7. GPS

Another function that has been found in cellphones these days, is the GPS. Because of geotagging functionalities and providing additional game elements that may have something to do with your location, you can expect that connecting with friends, interacting with games, and even utilizing social networking apps will rise to a new level.

6. Cross Play

Say you have a game in the PS3 that you love so much that you just cannot leave it behind, as you cannot bring your console everywhere. However, thanks to technologies like Cross Play, which acts as a cloud networking service for both the PS3 and the PS Vita, you can now pause your game, get your PS Vita, and continue the game from where you have stopped. You can get back into the action without the need to do all the hocus pocus and the jibber jabber processes that may make this experience quite uncomfortable.

5. Dual Analog Sticks

Are you a fan of first person shooting games? If you are, then you may have encountered issues in moving your character while stressing yourself in moving the camera angle and see things that you should, while getting bothered whether to touch one pad with another. Thanks to the dual analog sticks that are provided in the new PS Vita, you can now do two functions with ease, with one analog stick to move the player fast, while moving the camera with another analog stick.

4. OLED Screen

Crisp, image quality, and detail, is one of the greatest demands in playing video games that utilize processor speeds, memory, and battery. Thanks to the new OLED Screen included in the PS Vita, you can now see things in a different light, with its 5-inch screen that can display over 16 million colors, 960×544 pixels, all executed clean and easy.

3. Touch Screen

Thanks to modern technologies being implemented in smartphones, PS Vita has now incorporated a capacitive touch screen function to its 5-inch screen that can support multi-finger and pinching.

2. Better Wireless Communication

When the PSP was created, gaming possibilities and other functions were broadened due to the capability of the device to be connected to WiFi, where downloading games, accessing social networking sites, browsing the internet, and tapping the PlayStation Network has become a reality. However, thanks to the development of devices utilizing 3G connections through SIM Cards, PS Vita now has the option of connecting the handheld device to cellular networks that provides opportunities for texting, making, and receiving calls, and more. It also includes Bluetooth 2.1+EDR for other devices.

1. Faster Gameplay

With new technology comes the age of speeding things up. The PS Vita will be displaying games and working on multitasking functions with ease, thanks to its quad core ARM Cortex A9 processor, 512MB RAM, a SGX543MP4+ graphics-processing unit, and external storage that can be up to 32GB additional.

Let us know that how much do you guys like the Sony PS Vita? Is this really what you guys were expecting by Sony.  Sony PS Vita Specs and Features