Gladget Magazine July 2012

Nintendo’s New Angle

The Wii U adds a unique dimension

I S S U E 2 1 / Vo l . 2 July 2012

www.gladgetmag.com

including: Spec Ops:The Line Dragon’s Dogma Dirt: Showdown Lollipop Chainsaw

Chop Chop!

Lollipop Chainsaw reviewed

Sandstorm Spec Ops:The Line pushes narrative limits...

I S S U E 3 7 / Vo l . 4 Ju l y 2 0 1 2

w w w. w wg w. a mgea cmcea cmcag a . c. co.ozm a

www.gameccamag.com Taking fun seriously!

Inside 6 From the Editor

8 U Turn Nintendo’s new direction 14 Photography Primer The beauty of black and white 30 Reviews 19 products to add a tech-thrill to your life 60 Intelligent Design HP understand the importance of look and feel 78 DVD Seen Some movies to see, some to avoid...

86 Money to Burn A singature series iPhone 88 PC Builder Get the right graphics card...

THIS MONTH’S COVER The Wii U will add a whole bunch of new ideas to the way you game...

See the feature on page 8

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Reviews

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MSI GeForce GTX680 Graphics Card

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Logitech Tablet Speakers

36

Samsung Galaxy S III Smartphone

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Gioteck DF-1 Dualfuel Ammo Box for PS3

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Corsair Carbide Series 300R PC Case

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HP Folio 13-2000 Ultrabook

Editor: Walt Pretorius walt@gladget.co.za

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Parrot Minikit+

Sub Editor: Jimmy Glue

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QNAP TS-210

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Gioteck EX-05 Military Style Headset

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Hauppauge Colossus HD Video Recorder

Letters: letters@gladget.co.za

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DockinG Hard Drive Dock

Competition Entries: competitions@gladget.co.za

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Gioteck Real Triggers for PS3

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LG Optimus L3 Smartphone

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Gioteck EX-02s Next Gen Bluetooth Headset for PS3

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Apacer Black Panther 8GB DDR3-1600 RAM

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Topscore K53 Learner’s & Driver’s Test Success

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Spec Ops: The Line (PS3)

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Dragon’s Dogma (PS3)

74

Dirt: Showdown (X360)

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Lollipop Chainsaw (X360)

GLADGET Volume 2 Issue 21 July 2012

Writers: Brian Murdoch Dion Scotten Richard Bingham Alex Scanlon

Newsletter Subscriptions: www.gladget.co.za Design & Photography: 1337 Media Technical Support: Brian Murdoch Marketing Contact: Katia Taliadoros katia@gladget.co.za

technology. simply.

All rights reserved. No content may be reproduced, copied or transmitted without the express permission of the publishers. Opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the editors and publishers. All Trademarks and Registered Trademarks are the sole property of the respective owners.

GAMECCA is published by 1337 MEDIA

gladget • issue 21 • July 2012

Copyright © 1337 Media CC 2009 - 2012

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New and Improved...

From the Editor

by Walt Pretorius

I

t has been a very busy month for the Gladget crew. With our sister magazine, Gamecca, celebrating its third birthday this month, a lot of redesigns and new ideas went into it –as a result, we decided to do some tweaking on Gladget, too. We have, for example, moved to an A4 size with this issue, giving us more page space to utilise. And we have tweaked and tuned some of the ways we present information in the magazine.

But the changes won’t stop there.

Actually, changes is the wrong word; improvements is a better one. As we approach our second birthday issue, which will roll around in October, we are busy brain-storming, researching and hatching nefarious plots to improve our content delivery. This is all in order to ensure that you, our readers, get the best from this publication.

There will be new regulars and sections, new columns and more

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information added to the magazine as part of this process. There will also be a new editor stepping up to take the reigns of the magazine, but we’ll tell you more about that closer to the time. In the meantime, we hope you like the improvements we have made thus far – there will be a steady rollout of new ideas over the next few issues, rather than a huge once-off change.

One of the things that is different this month is the well-deserved resting of Inner Workings. We will bring the section back in due course, but we are compensating by adding extra features and reviews in the meantime. This includes a new focus on software reviews, which we know are very valuable in terms of making purchasing decisions.

We are well prepared for the coming latter half of 2012. The year has been a little quiet on the tech front so far, but the slow build to the Christmas rush starts round

about now, meaning that a host of new products are due to make an appearance on retail shelves around the country. That’s pretty exciting, because the market will be exploding with new tech and ideas for a few months to come.

And while some people claim to not have the cash to spend on new gadgets and hardware, the Christmas period always sees consumers squeezing a little more out of their budgets, no matter how cash strapped they might be.

Of course, we will have to wait to see how the Christmas period treats the technology market. But the fact remains that the new tech is coming –from new gaming consoles through to awesome television ideas, we have an exciting time ahead of us.

And with all the improvements that are happening to Gladget, you will be able to find everything you need to know about consumer technology right here! g

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U Turn

Feature

by Walt Pretorius

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Nintendo’s new console seems to be about more than just casual gaming...

and its coming soon... gladget • issue 21 • July 2012

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Feature

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T

he swanky Slow in the City, at the Sandton Radison hotel, recently saw a gathering of press and industry VIPs as Core Group, the South African distributors of Nintendo products, afforded the first opportunity for a handson experience with the much talked about Wii U. This new Nintendo console was announced some time ago, but as the anticipated release date draws near, more details of the device are being revealed.

The question on everyone’s lips is, quite simply: “is it time for another Nintendo console?” Nintendo’s competitors will not be releasing another new platform for a couple of years yet, if rumours hold true.

But Nintendo have full confidence that the Wii U will provide a necessary evolution of gaming oriented home entertainment at the end of this year.

The Wii U is a device that demonstrates Nintendo’s growing tendency towards revolutionary ideas. Most recently this was shown with the release of the 3DS hand held console, and before that with the revolutionary control ideas that accompanied the release of the Wii. The Wii U intends to take things even further, adding a new dimension to the games that people play, and the way that they play them.

The core to this idea is the new Wii U GamePad. This is the principle controller for the system, and it resembles a cross between a hand held console (thanks to the dual analogue sticks and numerous input buttons for game control) and a tablet PC (thanks to the large touch screen). Weighing arounf half a kilogram, the controller allows the player to use more traditional game controls, as well as the tough sensitive screen. This screen will be important to virtually every title released for the Wii U. In Ubisoft’s ZombiU, for example, it serves as an object scanner and inventory management system, while the main TV screen is used for core game play. In other titles that will be released, it will enable a fifth player to enter into traditionally four player party games, acting as an adversary or foil to their game. It can even be used to throw ninja stars, using a swiping motion directed at the TV screen.

The gamepad will also be armed with an array of sensors, including gyroscopes and accelerometers, as well as a camera, sensor bar, stereo speakers, a microphone, rumble features and more.

Other players will be able to join in on the action thanks to the fact that the Wii U will be compatible with four Wii Motion

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Feature

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controllers and peripherals (including the balance board) as well as Wii U Pro controllers (resembling more ‘traditional’ gaming input devices). Two GamePads will be able to connect to the system at the same time.

As far as specifications go, Nintendo are being a little quiet. A multi-core CPU and HD GPU will be built into the device, and games will be stored on internal flash memory, with expansion opportunities available via SD cards.

Video output will be full HD, with support for HDMI cables as well as proprietary component cables. Audio will be in the form of six channel linear output via HDMI, or analogue via component cables.

The unit will also be able to access the Internet, which will enable several functions, including Video Chat, the Nintendo eShop and the newly revealed Miiverse, which is a Nintendo-themed social network of sorts.

So what happens to all those Wii games that you bought before? Well, like the controllers, the Wii U will be compatible with Wii games too, although spec sheets for the device carefully state that ‘nearly all’ Wii games will be supported. Chances are there will be a few that drop by the wayside.

The Wii U, from what was seen at the event, will enable a few fresh ideas to enter into the gaming arena, and will change the way that games are played- particularly in groups – to a degree. How well the potential of this system (which is great) is realised will now really be up to software developers.

All that remains to be seen is a firm release date, as well as the all-important retail price. The console is clearly meant to access more than the casual market that the Wii was aimed at, with much more potential for hard-core style software to be created for the platform. But how it is received will be subject to a number of factors (including the price.) It really is a case of ‘wait and see’ at this point, although Nintendo will have their work cut out for them to access some traditionally resistant markets.

With all that said, the fact that Nintendo have once again adopted an innovative approach to their new console is undeniable.

While some critics may feel that the Wii U relies heavily on gimmicks, the truth is that the potential of the new system is massive. We’re quite sure that, provided the price doesn’t break the bank and Nintendo manages to convince the hard-core set of the device’s capabilities and potential, there will be many Wii U units under Christmas trees at the end of this year. g

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Regular

Photography Primer

The Subtle

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Art

gladget • issue 21 • July 2012

by Walt Pretorius

O

nce upon a time, black and white photography was a necessity. But, as Hollywood started moving towards colour feature films and colour film stock became more readily available, it moved from necessity to luxury.

These days, black and white images imply artistry of a certain kind, and with good reason; while a colour image can convey many messages, black and white images rely on form, texture and lighting (rather than colour) to convey their messages.

The thing is, though, that not every black and white image is artistic, and not every image should be black and white. Images that can effectively display form, texture and lighting work well, but those that have a strong reliance on colour- like macro flower images, for example – don’t work quite as well.

Black and white images tend to work best when they have crisp texture details and more dramatic lighting. Turning the flash-lit image of your friends at a party into a black and white image may not have the same impact as a portrait taken with moody, natural light coming from a single window will.

The beauty of digital photography – one of them – is that the photographer can shoot images in colour, and then convert them to black and white.

This is a good habit to get into. Shooting directly in black and white may ruin a photograph that would have looked better in colour… it’s best to have that colour information, in case you need it. Converting on a PC is a snap, and not having the option to use a colour version of the image may be heartbreaking.

It’s also good to remember that a good black and white image has a full range of greys, ranging from pure white to pure black. Those greys are extremely necessary for describing form and texture, so avoid pushing contrast to the maximum. You may think it looks dramatic, but many a good photograph has been ruined because of too few middle grey tones.

It is easy to spot a good spread of tonality while you work with the image… and if the edges of tone start looking hard, you’ve probably pushed it too far.

In the end, black and white photography is yet another wonderfully expressive art form. As such, it requires a good eye and good judgement. Be sensible about your black and white work, because less can most certainly be more here – particularly in terms of contrast...g

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Photography Primer Regular

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Reviews Highlights 32 MSI GeForce GTX680 Graphics Card Awesome Nvidia power!

36 Samsung Galaxy S III Smartphone A super-sexy smartphone 42 HP Folio 13-2000 Ultrabook HP’s Ultrabook alternative 48 Gioteck EX-05 Military Style Headset Arm your ears!

T

he hardware market seems to be getting a little livelier sa we move into the latter half of 2012. Impressive new devices are just around the corner as manufacturers prepare to take advantage of the Christmas rush, despite the fact that many people are pleading poverty thanks to the current economic climate.

The truth is, though, that there are still lots of people out there with money to spend, and the industry will doubtlessly try to take advantage of that… g

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gladget • issue 21 • July 2012

com

Distributed Exclusively by Apex Interactive Tel: (011) 796 5040 www.apexinteractive.co.za Email: sales@apexint.co.za All rights and trademarks and logos are copyright of their respective owners.

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www.apexactive.co.za

A Bigger GeForce Understated power

MSI GeForce GTX680 Graphics Card

by Walt Pretorius

K Review

K

eeping up with graphics cards can be pretty challenging, but if you have the cash to spend on MSI’s Geforce GTX680, you’re pretty much going to be as current as it gets… for now. And being that it is sporting one of the latest Nvidia chipsets, that price is pretty high. Still, you cannot always compromise performance for pricing, so there will be a great many out there- particularly gamers - who will want to get their hands on one of these top performers.

As said before, it comes armed with a Geforce 680 chipset, supported by a generous 2GB of GDDR5 RAM which, just as the spec implies, delivers smooth, beautiful visuals across all fields. Even under strain, the card chugs along at a more than comfortable pace.

The cooling on this card seems to be a little less extravagant than on some of MSI’s other models (notably the Twin Frozr cards) but it still does the job

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well. A single, turbine style fan works with generous heat piping and other familiar MSI techniques to keep the card pretty cool.

It also supports multiple GPUs, as is expected, and comes with a range of overclocking tools, in the form of MSI’s familiar, friendly Afterburner suite.

Similar to the high end AMD version we looked at last month, this particular card implies uses beyond gaming, thanks to elements like real-time video capture.

It can even be controlled using Android and iOS devices, although we are not sure exactly why you may want to do that.

And, as expected with MSI graphics cards, it comes armed with high grade components, including solid capacitors, which extend the lifespan of the device to around 12 years under strain. This is an odd claim to make, though, because the device will theoretically still be gladget • issue 21

• July 2012

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Review

AT A GLANCE: functioning properly long after the user has needed to perform a chipset upgrade. Still, it’s good to know that your card will survive its chipset’s obsolescence...

Four concurrent displays are supported by the card, which offers two DVI, one HDMI and one DisplayPort output.

The understated packaging belies the power that is on offer here.

We have seen cards with more RAM, sure, but 2GB is a solid amount in anyone book. The design of the card is pretty understated in terms of looks, too, with little to imply the power it provides.

Also part of this design in a more sensible positioning of the two power supply ports on the card – one above the other, rather than side by side.

If you’re willing to spend the cash, are after an Nvidia chipset and need power from your GPU, you need look no further than this effective and reliable MSI card. g

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Summary

Tech Specs:

It might not look the part, but this card is a really powerful option

Manufacturer Distributer: Online: RRP:

GeForce 680 chipset 2GB GDDR5 RAM 2 x DVI port 1 x HDMI port 1 x DisplayPort Afterburner suite

MSI Pinnacle Africa www.pinnacle.co.za R6599

Pros • • •

• • • • • •

Powerful Sensible Good performance

Cons

•

Not cheap

Score

86

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• July 2012

Clip On and Go! Sensible portable sound for tablets

by Walt Pretorius

Logitech Tablet Speakers

T Review

T

he thing about all those wonderful portable devices capable of delivering multimedia content is that, for the most part, they come equipped with rotten speakers. Thankfully companies like Logitech produce excellent portable speaker solutions – and take the time and effort to make sure that they are simply awesome, to boot.

The Logitech Tablet Speaker, for example, is a great option for those folks out there who want better sound from their tablets, without needing to use headphones.

These stereo speakers deliver excellent audio, and offer up to eight hours of battery life from the internal rechargeable battery. Best of all, they fit snuggly to the tablet, and can even be used as a stand, should you wish.

In terms of portability, they come with their own case, and fit easily into any bag. Another prime example of excellent Logitech design. g

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AT A GLANCE: Summary

Tech Specs:

A great option for tablet users who want better sound...

Manufacturer Distributer: Online: RRP:

Stereo 3.5mm jack Rechargeable battery Sturdy clip

Logitech Logitech www.logitech.com R499

Pros • • •

• • • •

Good sound Decent battery life Very portable

Cons

•

Could be louder

Score

79 35

Sexy

Bigger might just be better…

Samsung Galaxy S III Smartphone

by Alex Scanlon

S Review

S

amsung have managed to make quit a name for themselves in the whole mobile market.

Thanks to the Galaxy series of smartphones and tablets, they have carved a solid niche into a market dominated by Apple. But with the iOS app store being what it is in South Africa – and you can read that as ‘poor’- the Android based Galaxy range provides a solid, reliable and stylish alternative to Apple products.

Sure, they may look a lot like Apple’s devices, but that’s half the reason people buy Apple products anyway, so no loss there.

As a result, when Samsung announces a new Galaxy product, South Africa is one among many markets that sits up and pays very careful attention. That’s exactly what happened when the news of the Galaxy S III smartphone started doing the rounds.

The first impression that the S III gives is that it may

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be a little bit on the large side. And yes, it is a relatively big device. But these days, with all the apps and games that can be downloaded for Android devices, more screen real estate is not a bad thing… and the S III has acres of it, in the form of a very generous 4.8 inch display. This naturally results in a device that is less pocket friendly, because it is bigger than most. But it only weighs in at a paltry 133 grams, so it certainly isn’t completely unwieldy.

Talking applications when discussing an Android device is sort of pointless, because the apps that ship with the phone are going to be crowded out by downloaded applications before too long.

So let’s rather look at the phone in technical terms, and leave all the things you can do on it aside.

The 2100mAh battery delivers a talk time (on 3G) of almost eleven hours, which is pretty nifty.

Samsung have certainly managed to get their battery gladget • issue 21 • July 2012

AT A GLANCE: tech sorted, as Galaxy tablets show similarly long battery lives.

The rear of the phone sports an 8 megapixel camera, and images and data are stored on either 16, 32 or 64GB of internal memory. This memory is expandable thanks to an internal microSD port, situated near the sim card port. Getting to it, though, can be a bit tricky, because the removable back of the S III feels a little flimsy. Care will need to be exercised if you’re going to be swopping cards a lot.

All the bells and whistles (including a flash, 1.4GHz quad core CPU, dual sim support and more)fit together in what is a very sexy package.

Your friends won’t be criticising the size as much as cooing over the sleek lines and curves. And you will have the ability to further their envy by bragging about the excellent performance. g gladget • issue 21 • July 2012

Summary

Tech Specs: • • • • • •

A beautifully sleek and powerful addition to the Galaxy family.

Manufacturer Distributer: Online: RRP:

Samsung Samsung www.samsung.co.za R7999

Pros • • •

1.4GHz CPU 4.8 inch screen 133 grams 8mp camera MicroSD slot Android OS

Very stylish Great screen Expandable memory

Cons • •

Quite big Expensive

Score

92 37

Stay Fully Loaded A military gamer’s dream

Gioteck DF-1 Dualfuel Ammo Box for PS3

by Walt Pretorius

C C

Review

lever ideas – the word is full of them. And when they end up on our desks or under or TVs – or wherever else we stick out technology – even

better.

Gioteck are full of good ideas, it seems, with a range of peripherals for gamers that are not only good in terms of concept, but also look extremely cool. With a very strong military theme, their various devices make the gamer look like a proper combat operative.

These looks extend beyond the gamer. Though. Take the DF-1 Dualfuel Ammo Box for PS3 as an example.

This box, modelled to look like a military ammo case and finished in grey and black camouflage, helps the player’s gear look all army-like too.

The Dualfuel is a controller recharging set-up. It allows the user to, within the confines of it’s metal shell, charge up to two PS3 controllers. The recharge time is

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pretty quick, and the cradle system that the system uses keeps the controllers in contact with the charging points at all times . Special charge adapters come wit the box, which need to be fitted to the controllers. These, in turn, clip into the cradles, keeping the controllers firmly in place while charging. The are released by pressing an easily accessible button.

Aside from making the controller a bit bigger, the charge adapters are not very invasive. They are extremely light, so the added weight is negligible.

The outside front of the box has two LED charge indicators built in, while the back has a port for the included AC adapter to plug in. This means that, unlike some chargers, the Dualfuel doesn’t draw power from the PS3, and consequently keeps charging even when the console is turned off.

The metal case is great for protecting the controllers, gladget • issue 21 • July 2012

AT A GLANCE: and the lid (which locks solidly in place when closed thanks to a hinge clasp) keeps them protected and dust free.

It’s a great device, and can even be used to safely transport the controllers, although it has no carry handle.

There are really only two downsides to this set-up, and both of them are not that serious.

The first is that the device is quite bulky, seeing as how it is a case that needs to enclose two controllers. That means that those with little space may have an issue, but the strong construction means it can be kept pretty much anywhere. The second is that, if the controller needs to recharged while playing, the adapter must be removed. It’s a hassle, but it can be done fairly quickly and without too much sweat.

If you’re after a PS3 charging solution that looks impressive and works well, the Dualfuel case is a great option. And the military theme is really cool, too. g gladget • issue 21 • July 2012

Summary

Tech Specs:

Sturdy, reliable, effective and good looking... what more could a gamer want in a charger?

Manufacturer Distributer: Online: RRP:

Looks great AC powered Solid

Dual controller charge cradles Charge adapters Charge indicators AC power Metal

Gioteck Apex Interactive www.apexint.co.za R599.95

Pros • • •

• • • • • •

Cons • •

Bulky Adapters

Score

81 39

Flash Where it Counts

It doesn’t look fancy, but that doesn’t matter…

Corsair Carbide Series 300R PC Case

by Rob Edwards

G Review

G

etting the right case for your PC is more important than you might think. And there are many choices out there, so picking just the right one might be tricky.

Thankfully most computer systems will leave you with some wiggle room when it comes to the box they are to be built into, so your questions can be reduced to things like is it the right size? Does it have enough fan vents?

Does it allow for enough drives? Does it look good? Is it practical?

In the case of the Corsair Carbide Series 300R, the answer to all of those questions (barring extreme cases) is yes.

The case looks very good indeed, with a matt black finish punctuated by generous vents on the front, side, top and back. It might look a little plain for some of the more flashy gaming types, with no side window and

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controls and ports that are firmly understated, but overall this case would look good in any situation.

On to practicality. The screwless black interior is wonderful to work in, with no sharp edges to cause even the slightest injury.

The front offers two USB 3.0 ports near the top on the box, along with audio jacks and power and reset switches.

The bottom PSU mount adds stability, and getting in and out of the box is a snap, thanks to nicely sized thumb screws securing the side panels.

A very generous interior cable management space keeps things neat.

As far as drives go, the user will be able to fit four HDDs and three optical drives into the box, which should be more than enough. This also leaves a generous space for air to move from the front to the back of the box – always a good thing. gladget • issue 21

• July 2012

AT A GLANCE: Speaking of air, the box comes with the potential for seven large fans; two in front, two on the side, two on top and one in the rear. This, along with the bottom vent to allow quick air extraction from the PSU, means good airflow.

On the downside, though, the case only ships with a standard two 120mm fans – one in the front and one in the back. Getting more fans will be necessary if you’re looking at a performance PC. The 300R is extremely easy to work with, and is well constructed. Sure, it might not look like it can eat competitors for breakfast, but the value of this case lies elsewhere. It is extremely practical and versatile (like the fact that most of the fan ports can hold 120mm or 140mm fans) and will be a dream to work with for those who like building a nice, neat PC. Looks aren’t everything, remember... g gladget • issue 21

• July 2012

Summary

Tech Specs:

It looks fairly plain, but it is a versatile, practical and solidly constructed PC case.

Manufacturer Distributer: Online: RRP:

7 fan ports Bottom PSU bracket 2 x USB 3.0 ports 4 HDD brackets 3 Optical brackets

Corsair Frontosa www.frontosa.co.za R899

Pros • • •

• • • • •

Well built Excellent airflow practical

Cons • • •

Looks very plain Only ships with two fans

Score

80 41

A Great Machine But is it viable in SA?

HP Folio 13-2000 Ultrabook

by Walt Pretorius

L Review

L

iving in South Africa has many perks, no matter what some people may say. But there are also downsides to being at the bottom end of the African continent. No, we’re not talking about crime or the like; rather, I am making reference to the fact that while we do our best to stay current with technology and do, for the most part, there are times when our infrastructure lets us down.

Anyone living in this country can, for example, sing tales of woe when it comes to internet service delivery, particularly in terms of high bandwidth costs… something that many other countries don’t have problems with.

And when things like that impact directly on staying current with the latest tech, it gets frustrating. For example, the rest of the world is crowing about Ultrabooks. So are we. But where they are viable

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forms of portable computing in those other places, there are conditions locally that make them less than ideal for the mass market. Once again, that whole internet thing comes up. See, Ultrabooks like the HP Folio 13-2000 are great machines, bridging the gap between notebooks and netbooks while still remaining slim, light and powerful enough to be a good work PC. But part of their spec, as set out by Intel (who are behind the whole Ultrabook thing) is to not include an optical drive. This means that software you want or need to install has to arrive via other means, the most practical of which is… yes, the internet.

But when bandwidth and program costs are combined, things don’t look quite so rosy.

Don’t get me wrong. The Folio is a great machine. This particular model has an i5 processor running at 1.6GHz, with RAM upgradable to 4GB and a variety of HDD size options. It even allows for a solid state drive option of up gladget • issue 21 • July 2012

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Hardware name Review

AT A GLANCE: to 128GB. The 13.3 inch screen is powered by Intel HD 3000 graphics, and it offers all the bells and whistles, including card readers, a web cam, USB 3.0, an HDMI output and more. And all this in a package that weighs around 1.5kg and is only 1.8cm thick when closed.

That’s pretty awesome. But there is no optical drive.

And neither should there be.

Neither Intel nor HP look towards South Africa when they came up with Ultrabook specs or designed the sleek and stylish Folio.

They didn’t say “those poors sould have rotten internet access, so let’s help them out.” And why should they? We are a small market hampered by outmoded practices at times.

In short, the Folio is an awesome Ultrabook, but unless you have access to all-you-can-eat internet (which a growing number of people here do) you may find it difficult to work with. g

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Summary

Tech Specs:

If South Africa had better internet service delivery, devices like this awesome Ultrabook would make a lot more sense.

Manufacturer Distributer: Online: RRP:

i5 1.6GHz CPU Up to 4GB RAM 13.3 inch screen USB 3.0 From 1.5kg

HP HP www.hp.co.za R12999

Pros • • •

• • • • •

A great work machine Very portable

Cons • • •

Expensive Requires good internet delivery

Score

80

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Hands Off! Safe driving is a good idea…

by Alex Scanlon

Parrot Minikit+

W Review

W

ith the laws possibly changing in areas of South Africa regarding talking on your mobile while you drive (and we say bravo to the lawmakers) the need for a hands-free kit will be obvious. Parrot offers a number of kits, including the Parrot Minikit+, a compact and effective way to keep your hands on the wheel (where they belong) while talking on the phone in your car.

The receiver clips to the sun-visor, and delivers crisp, clear sound. It also offers a great battery life, and can be recharged on the go via your car’s cigarette lighter port.

Calls can be answered and ended using large buttons on the front of the device. Dialling, though, will still require the phone, unless you have voice dialling activated.

Still, this device is a solid option to ensure safe driving and communicating habits. g

gladget • issue 21 • July 2012

AT A GLANCE: Summary

Tech Specs:

A hands-free kit is essential, and this one is a good option.

Manufacturer Distributer: Online: RRP:

Blue tooth Car charger Face buttons Visor clip

Parrot Parrot www.smac.co.za R899

Pros

• •

• • • •

A good idea Good sound

Cons

•

A little simple for complex functions

Score

78 45

All Access A proper file sharing solution

QNAP TS-210

by Rob Edwards

T Review

T

here are numerous reasons to have a reliable network access point. At work, those reasons are obvious – it will provide a central place to keep files, so that those that need access to them can have it.

Even at home, though, a NAS can be a great idea, allowing documents and multimedia files to be shared.

But these things have, in the past, been rather expensive and difficult to work with.

These days, though, easy to use access points are readily available, and at prices that are far better than one might expect. That the TS-210 from QNAP, for example. This discrete white box will sit quietly in a corner, allowing everyone connected to the network quick, easy and effective access to the files and data it contains.

At least, if the administrator wants them to have

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it. See, the TS-210 is built to function not just as some kind of fancy external hard drive, but rather as a proper network file repository. To this end, the secure server has been given a full set of tools to manage it with. The admin can set permissions, create share directories, apply passwords and a whole host of other functions. It’s pretty nifty.

Setting the device up can be a little bit of a hassle, though, because it needs to be formatted correctly.

Therefore it might mess with network settings a little, but these can always be adjusted as necessary. The TS-120 comes with fairly clear instructions, and following them should mean that problems are kept to a minimum.

The device can hold up to two 3.5 inch SATA I or II hard drives, which fit snugly into its interior. They are kept cool with a rear mounted 60mm cooling fan. Access to the drives is via LAN connection, facilitated by a 800MHz gladget • issue 21 • July 2012

AT A GLANCE: CPU and 256MB of DDR2 RAM. Other connectors come in the form of three USB 2.0 ports – one in the front, and two in the back.

The controls are relatively simple; the TS-210 only has three buttons. One for power, one for reset, and one for a quick-copy function to the front USB port. Other than that, the front side of the box is dominated by a strip of LEDs, which report power, HDD function, LAN status and so forth.

In addition to LAN connectivity, the TS-210 also supports USB printers, USB hubs and similar devices.

If you need such a device – and with the modern home becoming more and more computer oriented, even here in South Africa, you may well need one sooner than you think – the TS-210 is a great option. It is effective and discrete, both in terms of size and price. And it’s ease of use makes it a snap to install and maintain. g gladget • issue 21 • July 2012

Summary

Tech Specs:

Need a reliable file server for your small to medium sized network? You’re welcome.

Manufacturer Distributer: Online: RRP:

Easy to use Fairly quick Discrete

800MHz CPU 256MB RAM 2 x 3.5 inches SATA I / II HDD docks LAN port 3 x USB 2.0 ports

QNAP Pinnacle Africa www.pinnacle.co.za R2015

Pros • • •

• • • • • •

Cons •

Not the most powerful NAS around

Score

75 47

Armed Ears Get ready for excellent Xbox audio action…

Gioteck EX-05 Military Style Headset

by Alex Scanlon

N Review

N

ot everyone knows this, but there are a series of tones that are extremely important in sound.

While everyone screams for more bass or brags about crisp treble, the midtones just manage to get ignored. And it is these tones that give sound a fullyrounded feel, the kind of body that takes good sound that step further to being great sound. Not everybody knows this. Gioteck does.

Part of their range of military inspired gear is a range of headsets, which includes the EX-05 Military Style Headset for Xbox 360.

As you get it out of the box, your first impression will likely be ‘wow, that’s huge.’ And you wouldn’t be wrong.

The EX-05 is a big headset, which is kind of unusual from a new product in a market where many things are aiming for the ‘smaller is better’ ideal. The EX-05 looks clunck and cumbersome, with large ear cups and a very

48

broad headband. But then you slip it on, and all those worries disappear.

First off, it’s not as heavy as you might think. The ear cups are comfortable and large enough to enclose the whole ear, rather than put pressure on it. And the headband, which is a mesh stretched between two metal tensioners (much like what the military use) is extremely comfortable (although it won’t do much for your hairstyle, unless you want it flattened down.) All of these elements are, or course, fully adjustable, so that the most comfortable wearing position can easily be achieved. The fully flexible and adjustable microphone arm helps with this, too.

And then there’s the sound… It really is very good, thanks to the fact that Gioteck have paid attention to all sound ranges here. Crisp audio, from booming bass to the crispest highs, is the order of the day. The great sound gladget • issue 21

• July 2012

AT A GLANCE: is largely due to the generous 40mm drivers used in the headphones.

The EX-05 is a wired headset. Being that it is an Xbox 360 peripheral, that’s not really a surprise. But the wired element does require the use of component cables, which means that those choosing to use an HDMI connection with the Xbox will be left wanting – anyone who has tried to plug in component cables as well as HDMI on an Xbox 360 will know what I am talking about. It’s just can’t be done. Still, the audio quality is high enough that you may well consider a switch in this case.

The cables feed through an in-line volume control that offers separate voice and game volume, as well as a mic mute switch.

If you’re after good Xbox 360 sound, and don’t mind the component cable thing, then these are a great bet. They look the part, too, with a stylish military finish. g gladget • issue 21

• July 2012

Summary

Tech Specs:

If you’re looking for great Xbox sound, and don’t mind component cables, here’s what you need...

Manufacturer Distributer: Online: RRP:

40mm drivers In-line audio controls Stereo Adjustable mic Lightweight

Giotech Apex Interactive www.apexint.co.za R699.95

Pros • • •

• • • • •

Good looks Great sound Comfortable

Cons • •

Component cables A little pricey

Score

88 49

Capture It! Capture all kinds of moving pictures

Hauppauge Colossus HD Video Recorder

by Walt Pretorius

H Review

H

auppauge are all about video, whether it be viewing it or capturing it on your PC. We have seen some of their excellent TV cards in the past, but this time around we have a real treat – particularly for those who like to show off their video gaming prowess.

The Hauppauge Colossus is a video capture card that offers an extreme amount of versatility. It allows recording of TV signal, for example, as long as the TV input is via component cable or HDMI. That means, realistically, that any device using either component cables or HDMI connections to a TV can be recorded from. That’s pretty awesome, although the opportunities for rampant piracy are undeniable.

What we prefer is the fact that this device can be used to capture video from game consoles. By plugging the game console into the card’s HDMI or component

50

inputs, the player can easily capture their in-game awesomeness, thanks to a software suite that allows video recording and editing.

The device even comes with a full function remote control, so that you can start and stop your recording with a minimum of hassle.

Here’s the thing though. If you’re recording game play footage (or anything else for that matter) there is a latency of around two seconds. That means you’re going to be reacting two seconds later than you should be while gaming. This is, of course, if you are viewing the actual recording footage. But there is a work-around. See, in addition to the inputs, the card also offers an option for a component video output. What this means is that the signal that is being captured by the card is rerouted (simultaneously) to a TV, allowing the player to play without lag while the card happily records the action. And gladget • issue 21

• July 2012

AT A GLANCE: it can have all the lag it wants, because the player has a TV to look at, rather than the recording footage.

But this is also the only weak point of the Colossus. See, the fact that the output is component, and that this is the only output available, means that the player must play on a TV. Had there been an HDMI output, like on some other Hauppage products, the user could use a secondary PC monitor to watch the real-time action, which is more convenient. As it stands, you pretty much have to move your PC to the lounge, rather than move your console to the PC desk.

There are work-arounds involving HDMI splitters and such, but these will require some research, and extra expenditures. But once you see the video capture quality that this card delivers, you will most likely not mind going to the extra effort and expense. Or you might just resort to the whole component thing. g gladget • issue 21

• July 2012

Summary

Tech Specs:

This will help you capture all kinds of video, but you may have to do a few workarounds to get there with HDMI...

Manufacturer Distributer: Online: RRP:

•

HD Video capture Software suite Full function remote Component in HDMI in Component out

Hauppage Pinnacle Africa www.pinnacle.co.za R1799

Pros •

• • • • • •

Good quality video capture Nice price

Cons

•

No HDMI out

Score

79 51

HDD Toaster No need for open case surgery…

DockinG Hard Drive Dock

by Rob Edwards

I Review

I

f you need more versatility than you can get from an external hard drive, or you need to be able to access hard drives that aren’t plugged into a PC system, this device will be exactly what you are looking for.

Using a USB 2.0 connection to any computer, this docking cradle will enable you to plug in any 2.5 inch or 3.5 inch SATA I, II or III hard drive.

It doesn’t provide the fastest drive access, but it is still surprisingly quick, and will let you access data without the hassle of opening up your PC box and installing a drive temporarily.

It does look a little like a toaster, yes, but it performs its function perfectly. And if this is the kind of device you need, it won’t make a big dent in your pocket either.

It’s a niche market thing, sure, but if you need it, you need it. XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX g

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AT A GLANCE: Summary

Tech Specs:

A handy tool for those who need access to multiple unplugged hard drives.

Manufacturer Distributer: Online: RRP:

USB 2.0 SATA I/II/III AC Powered 2.5’’ HDD compatible 3.5’’ HDD compatible

DockinG Pinnacle Africa www.pinnacle.co.za R265

Pros • • •

• • • • •

Handy Wide HDD compatibility

Cons

•

Bit of a niche item

Score

78

gladget • issue 21 • July 2012

Itchy Fingers Enhance your PS3 controller

by Walt Pretorius

Gioteck Real Triggers for PS3

T

AT A GLANCE:

Review

T

he tension is palpable… sweat runs into your eyes as you line up the scope, preparing for the perfect head-shot. And then your finger slips off of the trigger button, because the guys that designed the PS3 controller kind of just got that whole shape wrong.

They should be concave, not convex, right?

Well, the days of oddly shaped PS3 triggers are over, as soon as you get yourself a set of Gioteck Real Triggers for PS3.

They simply clip on to the existing buttons, and give the player a much more comfortable shape to work with.

They are not the first trigger enhancements we have seen for the PS3, but they are really good ones, with a solid clip and a dual textured finish that feels great. No PS3 warrior’s arsenal is complete without a set of these – lightweight, effective and awesome, adding greatly to the gaming experience. g

gladget • issue 21

• July 2012

Summary

Tech Specs:

The best way to play PS3... with properly shaped trigger enhancements!

Manufacturer Distributer: Online: RRP:

Solid clip Dual texture

Gioteck Apex Interactive www.apexint.co.za R59.95

Pros • • • • •

• •

Nice Features Lots of Power Convenient Size Light, Simple Powerful

Cons

•

None to speak of...

Score

80 53

Smaller But is that better?

LG Optimus L3 Smartphone

by Alex Scanlon

W Review

W

ith smart phones just getting bigger and bigger, LG have produced the 3.2 inch screened Optimus L3. And that’s really what sets it apart from the run of the mill – the fact that it really is much smaller than the average phone running Android these days. But is smaller necessarily better?

When it comes to Android, no, not really. The small screen size makes working the phone a bit fiddly. Sure, it might be more pocket friendly, but big or clumsy fingers won’t feel welcome here. But all it takes is a bit of getting used to.

The phone naturally delivers everything one would expect from an Android device, including internet connectivity, complete with functions like YouTube video uploads and the like. In addition, it has a 3 megapixel camera built in, to help capture and share all wthose moments.

As far as being a phone goes, it delivers the expected LG quality. g

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AT A GLANCE: Summary

Tech Specs:

• • • •

It’s a handy size, but the smaller screen isn’t ideal.

Manufacturer Distributer: Online: RRP:

3.2’’ screen 3 megapixel camera Android OS

Pros • •

Small Great price

LG LG www.lg.com R1499

Cons

•

Screen feels a bit fiddly

Score

70

gladget • issue 21 • July 2012

Milspec…

Look the part!

Gioteck EX-02s Next Gen Bluetooth Headset for PS3

by Rob Edwards

N Review

N

eed effective PS3 online communication? Well, Gioteck have a really military looking solution for you. Finished in a ‘midnight camouflage’ black and grey, the EX-02s Next Gen Bluetooth Headset for PS3 delivers great performance.

As a Bluetooth headset, it wirelessly connects to the PS3, allowing for single ear voice communications. The device is fairly large for what it is, but is not heavy at all.

Added comfort arises from the fact that the speaker sits on the user’s ear, rather than in it. Not only is that idea more comfortable, but it is healthier too.

Generous controls allow easy use, and the internal battery can be recharged even while the user is busy with the device. Interchangeable ear pieces mean that you can use it with either your left or right earwhichever is most comfortable. And the matt finish stays really cool, even after long periods of use.

Excellent! g

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AT A GLANCE: Summary

Tech Specs:

A comfortable, reliable Bluetooth device, made for PS3 but useable anywhere...

Manufacturer Distributer: Online: RRP:

Bluetooth On-ear design Interchangeable earpiece Rechargeable Ergonomic controls

Gioteck Apex Interactive www.apexint.co.za R299.95

Pros • • •

• • • • • •

Comfortable Ambidextrous Effective

Cons

•

Big

Score

90

gladget • issue 21

• July 2012

Double Up! Getting more RAM is always good…

by Walt Pretorius

Apacer Black Panther 8GB DDR3-1600 RAM

K

AT A GLANCE:

Review

K

eeping up with upgrades can be tricky, because technology moves so quickly. If you’re looking to upgrade your RAM it’s a good time, because 8GB DDR3 modules are readily available, and nicely priced, too.

The Apacer Black Panther range has added an 8GB option, meaning that doubling up on your memory is pretty easy, if you were running 4GB already. The 8GB DDR3-1600 modules deliver excellent performance, and the included, stylish heat sink keeps things much cooler.

At a price of less than R800 per module, getting a standard PC (with four RAM slots on the motherboard) up to a chunky 32GB of RAM is not all that expensive, considering what you’ll be getting in terms of performance. And Apacer’s experience with this kind of product shows – this RAM is quick and extremely reliable, and the added bonus of large capacities like this makes computing with it awesome. g

gladget • issue 21

• July 2012

Summary

Tech Specs:

Getting a truck load of RAM is easy with these excellent modules.

Manufacturer Distributer: Online: RRP:

8GB DDR3-1600 Heat sink

Apacer Pinnacle Africa www.pinnacle.co.za R720

Pros • •

• • •

Lots of RAM here!

Looks good

Cons

•

None

Score

95 57

Be Prepared Interactive studying for the important tests…

Topscore K53 Learner’s & Driver’s Test Success

by Rob Edwards

L Review

L

earning to drive- it’s something we all want and need to do. But the process can be tricky, time consuming and rather dry. Sifting through book of information is not exactly the most thrilling thing to do, and many people who fail their licenses (either drivers or learners) do so because they haven’t been able to do the right kind of preparation.

Topscore have a great solution for this problem. It comes in the form of a software package called K53 Learner’s & Driver’s Test Success, and it presents the user with several tools to make studying for those all important tests easier and more effective.

The software is, sadly, not extremely interactive. The studying part is still going to require a lot of reading, but the software does give the user the ability to either read on-screen, or print out desired sections.

Certain sections are supplemented with videos, which help greatly to illuminate ideas put forward in the text

58

sections.

Additionally, several graphics are also included, much as one would find in books about the same sunject.

The real gem of this software package lies in the mock tests for the learners license.

Using the mouse, the user can provide answers to tests that are either standardised or randomised. This is a great way to test knowledge; while the official standardised tests help the user to get a good idea of the kinds of questions asked, the random tests can be used to really test knowledge.

After each test, the user will be given a breakdown of how they did. Answers that were incorrect will be highlighted, with the correct answers indicated. In addition, test results are tracked, showing an overall performance on the user’s part. This all helps the studying process, giving a general overview of which sections of the test need work, and which are spot on. gladget • issue 21 • July 2012

Naturally, for the driver’s test, these mock exams won’t work. However, the software has meticulous explanations of what will be expected from the person undergoing the test, helping them prepare theory as well as possible. 30 included hazard awareness videos also help the user to prepare for the dreaded road test.

This software is quite a boon for those who are preparing for their license tests. Multiple users can be registered with the software, which also helps, because it can keep track of individual performances.

In terms of presentation, the K53 Learner’s & Driver’s Test Success package is not the prettiest. However, function replaces flash here, and the information included is kept current through an online updating system.

For a cost that is only a little higher than that of the traditional books people used to resort to, this package offers users an accurate and interactive way to prepare for their license tests. g gladget • issue 21 • July 2012

AT A GLANCE: Summary

System Requirements

It looks a little bland, but stat tracking and mock tests make up for that.

Manufacturer Distributer: Online: RRP:

Win 2000/XP/Vista/7 600MHz CPU 128MB RAM 300MB HDD 32MB GPU CD Rom

Topscore Apex Interactive www.apexint.co.za R149

Pros • • • • •

• • • • • •

Mock tests Stat tracking Updates

Cons • • • • •

Looks bland Lots of reading

Score

79 59

Intelligent

Design

Feature

by Walt Pretorius

60

gladget • issue 21 • July 2012

Leading technology isn’t all about the bells and whistles inside.

Look and feel are equally inportant... a fact that HP’s Stacy Wolff knows all too well. gladget • issue 21 • July 2012

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Feature

62

gladget • issue 21 • July 2012

D

uring the HP Global Influencer Summit 2012, which took place in May in Shanghai, China, Vice President of Design at HP, Stacy Wolff, took time to explain some of the thinking behind HP’s design approach.

Design is a very important aspect of bringing products to market, and playing on a global scale can make things far more complicated. Colours and materials that appeal to the Western mind-set might not prove popular in the Far East, for example. HP are aware of the fact that not every product will appeal to every market, and that the aesthetic and user experience of each design may be specific to particular markets.

“We have designers around the globe,” Wolff explained. “ We have designers in Shanghai, in Taipei, in Europe. We have designers in the US. Why is that important?

When you design for users around the world, you have to make sure that we he have the right kind of designs moving forward, but we also have to have the right kind of cultural input. It’s a diverse team. I have designers from Finland, I have designers from Bulgaria, I have designers from China and Latin America… you name it, we have designers from around the globe. And we have female designers designing some of the products for the ladies. We have a mixed pot of different folks looking at design.”

HP have dedicated design philosophies when it comes to creating new products, both in terms of technical approach and image.

Wolff touched on some of the aspects taken into account when putting together a new product design, based on trends that the HP team believe are most important.

“Material, which is trend number one, is pretty significant,” he said. “The key thing with material is that we’ve gone to the molecular level. A few years if I said I was gonna make a notebook out of glass you would say “ýou’re crazy.” But glass has progressed so far that we have gorilla glass. A lot of people think that glass is heavy, but we’re using glass at a point five millimetre thickness. It’s stronger than aluminium, it’s lighter than aluminium.

We’ve pushed the boundaries of research at the molecular level.

“Also, 3D surfaces. We brush surfaces,

gladget • issue 21 • July 2012

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Feature

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gladget • issue 21 • July 2012

we chrome surfaces, we perforate surfaces.

We’re now going on a micro-3D level.”

Although the knowledge that different cultures are attracted to and require different things, the HP team is also aware of some international ideas and issues.

“We’re seeing global fusion,” Wolff said.

“We’re in every region. What used to be a Western design or a Eurpean design or an Eastern design… they’re all kind of melting into one.

“We’re a big company and we do a lot of things in the sense of shipping product, so we thing smart on how we deal with ecology. I can reduce packaging and product weight – I can ship more products with less fuel. These are the things we think about. It’s more than just making a box with recycled material.”

The design of the products produced by any company is as much a part of that company’s identity as their logo. To this end, HP use their system of design philosophies and ideas to create a uniform feel across a number of products.

“Mosaic is an internal codename for what we do. One of the biggest challenges for the design team is, think about it… we launch eighty new products. How do you make one unified design language over so many products? And so we have, as a philosophy, to make sure that we unite everything into one.

Material, usability, sensory experience. When you buy a product, that’s what you should be looking for.”

And they’re always looking to the future, while still remembering that the present is equally important.

HP tends to test, and retest and retest to make sure that we have the appropriate product.” Wolff explained. “What we like to do is test year to year, so that we have a better way of fine tuning our design philosophy.”

As HP continue to produce products and remain among the industry leaders for personal and business computing products, the role of design will likely become more and more important. But with a dedicated team of designers and an approach that extends research beyond just what goes on inside their products this technology giant will keep their customers thrilled with cutting edge design and awesome good looks. g gladget • issue 21 • July 2012

65

Spec Ops: The Line

Heart of Sand So you wanna be a hero?

by Walt Pretorius

W

actions of Captain Walker, the character under the player’s control, might not actually be the right ones. They’re easily put down to being tough choices initially, but as the game’s exceptional plot develops, the player will more than once start wondering if Walker is the hero he believes he is… or if he is even a hero at all. The game will, at times, have the player posed with choices that really have no positive outcomes. At others, it will blatantly blast the player with shocking events that are the direct result of Walker’s actions. It is quite possibly the first game ever in which being the good guy makes you feel bad. And that is part of what makes it an awesome entertainment experience.

There’s a distinction there. Calling it an awesome game would be pushing things a little far, perhaps. It is a good game, yes, but the game dynamics and systems are overshadowed by a story that is powerful, thought-

Review

hen we play video games, there are certain things that we take for granted. One of them is that the character we are in control of is doing stuff that leads towards some kind of good – or even greater good. Even in games which have the main character cast as some kind of rogue, scoundrel or criminal still give the player the impression that what they are doing is all about what is good and right and just, whether for the character personally, his close circles, or the world at large. There are very few exceptions to this idea. And none have taken the antithesis of this struggle for what is right quite as far as Spec Ops: The Line.

It is something that sneaks up on you while you play the pop-and-drop, cover-based shooter. Somewhere, in the back of your mind, the idea begins forming that the

66

g a m e c c a r e v ige lwa d•g iests u• ei s1s7u e• 2N1o v•e m J ubl ey r 22001120

provoking, disturbing and important. The story is what elevates this title above the norm, and if you’re the kind of player who rushes through games and skips cut-scenes, you will be doing yourself a serious disservice here. Plot is primary in Spec Ops: The Line.

It breaks down a bit like this – and we’re going to keep spoilers to a minimum here: the city of Dubai is turned into a horrific wasteland after a series of devastating sandstorms all but destroy it. A Delta Force team, under the leadership of Walker, is sent in to search for survivors – most importantly, a Colonel John Konrad and his 33rd battalion, who were conducting rescue missions in the city before they went dark. The name John Konrad, incidentally, is a reference to author Joseph Conrad, who wrote Heart of Darkness… a pretty heavy story that this game uses as inspiration. So did the movie Apocalypse

gladget • issue 21 • July 2012

Now, and if you have seen that, you may have some kind of idea what you are in for while playing Spec Ops: The Line.

As the story progresses, Walker and his team descend into the darkness of Dubai –not a literal darkness, mind you, but rather the darkness of humanity driven to desperation and savagery. And that’s where we will leave it, because the story is too good to ruin by telling you what happens next.

Suffice to say that during the course of the game’s narrative, the player will need to make some pretty tough choices, which subtly affect the course of the story. There are multiple endings, which prompt a second play through, at least. If you were as captivated by the story as I was, you’ll probably play it through several times, just to spot those turning points and get the full picture.

As far as the game itself goes, Spec Op: The Line is a

67

that, at times, the environment can be employed to best enemies – like causing a cascade of sand to ‘drown’ enemy combatants – and things can get pretty intense.

Thankfully the two AI characters that join the player on his mission are pretty smart. They will effectively act on their own, moving to cover and engaging enemies. The player can also issue orders to them, but these are sparse at best, and are often part of more-or-less scripted events.

There is a fair amount of scripting and linearity to this title, and numerous cut-scenes. While this may not seem ideal, these all play towards advancing the narrative, and the game can easily be forgiven that slight weakness.

Visually, this title is excellent, with special effects that not only enhance the game play, but add to the ambiance and story too. Swirling sandstorms and glaring sunlight not only add feel, but can also affect the player’s performance;

Review

more than decent third person action title. It places a heavy reliance on cover-based combat, so the player will constantly be dodging from one setoff cover to another.

The cover can be destroyed, too, in some instances, and the rather clever enemy AI will try to flank the player whenever possible, making the combat quite intense. The need to move constantly is ever-present.

This is where the game may –note, may – let a few players down. Every now and then, the controls for vaulting over cover, which correspond with melee attacks, may lead to slight issues. But it isn’t anything ruinous, really, because it doesn’t crop up too often.

In fact, the controls can lead to a rather fluid game dynamic, with the player zipping between cover objects while trying to avoid enemy fire almost constantly. It can get pretty frantic, and exhilarating. Add to that the fact

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sensible, and realistic. The voice acting, too, is excellent, with veteran Nolan North heading up the cast in the role of Walker.

But everything comes back down to that all important story. This is the heart of the game, and its importance to the overall experience cannot be understated. Partly because of this, Spec Ops: The Line’s multiplayer offering leaves a bit to be desired. There is no story here, obviously; instead, the player is faced with a number of game modes that are entertaining, but not revolutionary. They feel soulless after experiencing the single player campaign.

There’s another little issue. Despite being replayable, the single player campaign is short. Not brutally short, mind you, but the heavy reliance that this game places on it could have lead to a longer campaign.

Still, the experience borders on unmissable. This games

pushes narrative limits in exciting ways, and plays with in-game morality on a whole new level. The combination of solid game mechanics with a really well put together plot makes for something that is great to experience, even if the multiplayer offering is weaker than it should be. Fans of a great story will certainly want to play this title. Those fans shouldn’t include kids, though- this game is very certainly for adults, full of brutal violence, bad language and adult themes.

Not everyone will love this game; it’s less about the guns and big booms (although they are there) than the psyche of Captain Walker.

It is the most interesting game, in terms of story, that we have seen in a long time. Approach it with the right attitude, experience the full story, and you are in for a treat. Skipping even one cut scene may ruin that. g

AT A GLANCE: Third person shooter

Reviewed on:

PS3

Here’s a game where the story is paramount, the action is intense and the presentation is awesome.

Similar to: MaxPlayers Developer: Publisher: Distributer:

Mass Effect, SOCOM: Special Forces Local

1

Network

Online

8

Yager 2K Games Megarom

Parental Advisory

18+ gladget • issue 21 • July 2012

0

Violence Language Sex Drug Use Prejudice

Accessibility Hard-Core Medium Casual

Platforms

Genre:

PC X360 Kinect

PS3 Move

Wii PSV DS 3DS

Score

89 69

Dragon’s Dogma

Arise!

And take on a massive world

by Lein Baart

I

Dragon’s Dogma is truly about.

As an RPG, Dragon’s Dogma mixes up the usual systems. The game initially allows you to choose one of three vocations, or classes, being a fighter, strider (ranger), or mage. Gaining experience earns you discipline points, which are then spent on skills such as spells or special attacks, core skills like levitating and blocking, and passive abilities called augments. The game allows you to multiclass, though only your augments really carry through, unless you choose a vocation similar to your previous choice, as skills are tied to specific weapon types. In total there are nine vocations, including the likes of a mystic knight and an assassin, and you can freely swap between classes at any point, making Dragon’s Dogma extremely versatile.

The other core mechanic revolves around human-like

Review

n gaming, as in most things, there are those titles that will either be loved or hated by those who play them. Most games offer a little bit of both, where you get drawn in for a while then lose interest as the aspects that irritate become too much. Dragon’s Dogma sits squarely in the former category however, offering a unique blend of brilliance and flaws that will either have you captivated or cause you to bolt for the door to get an exchange.

Dragon’s Dogma has a stigma attached to it, and rather unfairly at that. It seems to draw from so many different games that initially it looks to be a confusing hodgepodge of mismatched elements, and in danger of losing its identity amidst the chaos. Nothing could be further from the truth though, as these are shallow comparisons at best that give the vaguest hint of what

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creatures called pawns. In theory, it’s meant to make Dragon’s Dogma similar to an offline MMO, though the practice falls somewhat short. In addition to your own character, you create a “main pawn” that will be a constant companion throughout your journey, and is the only other character to level besides you. The rest of your party is made up of hirelings, who you can freely swap out at almost any time in the game. They essentially exist to serve you, which they state many, many times, and will wander around waiting for you, as an Arisen, to ask for their aid. To be honest, while the ideas are good, it’s a flawed execution. The A.I. controlling them is mediocre at best, and they frequently tend to do rather silly things in combat, like run off ledges or shout useless advice… over and over again. Pawns apparently love one-liners, and suffer from some rare selective amnesia, as no matter

gladget • issue 21 • June 2012

how many times you pass a particular landmark, they will always shout out the same remark with glee or wonder. It’s informative at first, but quickly gets annoying, though they do tend to grow on you. While it would be inconceivable to give every single pawn, of which there are hundreds, a distinct personality, your own pawn is no better, and it’s a shame Capcom never exploited this opportunity. There is one fantastic feature though, in which your main pawn can be uploaded, allowing other players to use him or her in questing and vice versa.

The story is perhaps the weakest part of the game, which is a pity as there was great potential. You begin as the typical nameless, voiceless hero, who defiantly rushes at a rampaging dragon attacking your village. This of course is rather unwise, and you have your heart ripped out of your chest and eaten for your trouble, only

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created a huge world, filled with most of the staples of fantasy fiction. Goblins, ogres, undead and more all make an appearance, and it’s through this vast and ever spawning array that Dragon’s Dogma’s greatest strength is revealed: combat. It’s fast and frantic, even against weaker foes, but getting to grips with everything may take some time. The monsters of myth though, such as chimeras and cyclopses, are spectacular, presenting truly epic battles. You can clamber on to these foes while they rage across the battlefield, crawling your way up to attack the head for instance, and felling such beasts is immensely satisfying. It should be warned though, venturing too far too quickly will likely see you winding up in a tricky situation with extremely tough enemies all around, and it’s for this reason Dragon’s Dogma should be taken at a steady pace.

Review

to be told by the dragon that you must face him when you’re stronger. While this in the strictest sense would make you undead, you awaken to find out that you have become an Arisen. What this means exactly, and how you came to be so, is left largely unexplained for most of the game. As are most things actually. The land you travel, Gransys, is filled with ruins and dungeons, yet besides for a brief one liner from one of your pawns, the blanks are never filled in. Likewise, the plot tends to have large holes, and it can be hours before any significant progress is made. The majority of the story is standard fantasy fare, and this impression isn’t helped by the mostly generic side quests. The ending, in a strange contradiction, is fantastic, though only the patient and persistent are likely to get there.

To fill up the hours in between then, Capcom has

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That steady pace will be forced on you whether you like it or not however. The game is almost entirely bereft of a fast-travel system, except for expensive one use items that only transport you to the city; thus you will be legging it everywhere. While this isn’t a bad thing necessarily, many quests force you travel back to areas you’ve already been through, and with constant monster respawns, it can get tedious. The combat, as already mentioned, is great and will keep you entertained, and provides a good measure to judge your growing prowess, but the map is large and it can take quite a while to get from point to another. That said, Dragon’s Dogma is an open-world game and you will sorely miss out if you choose not to explore. There are some great moments to be had, such as goblins flying out of a bush to tackle you, and fantastic vistas to take in, and if you invest the patience you will be rewarded.

While the wilds are beautiful and engaging, the same cannot be said of the urban areas. The structures are majestic, especially the city of Gran Soren, but the initial appearance of life is hollow. People you meet wander around aimlessly, with only a couple of oft-repeated lines, spoken in a sort of ye olde English that apparently needs the word “aught” throw in to every second sentence. The ambience tracks do little do aid this, and hum of the city is distinctly lacking, giving each centre the feeling of a ghost town.

Dragon’s Dogma is ultimately the quintessential diamond in the rough. While there are certainly flaws to be found, some of which can be off putting in the extreme, there are moments of pure genius as well.

It’s engaging, constantly challenging, and most importantly for a game, a lot of fun. g

AT A GLANCE: Third Person Adventure

Reviewed on:

Definitely not a title for everyone, Dragon’s Dogma requires plenty of time an effort, though the rewards are great.

Similar to: MaxPlayers Developer: Publisher: Distributer:

Demon’s Souls Local

1

Network

Online

0

Capcom Capcom Ster Kinekor

Parental Advisory

18+ gladget • issue 21 • June 2012

0

Violence Language Sex Drug Use Prejudice

Accessibility Hard-Core Medium Casual

PS3 Platforms

Genre:

PC X360 Kinect

PS3 Move

Wii PSV DS 3DS

Score

77 73

Dirt: Showdown

Dirt Stepdown Is this the same franchise?

by Dylan Bouch

T

few venues, with different events taking place in the same arena.

The cars, depending on the event the player chooses, represent more of the old school Hot Rods, which is very cool.

The trick-rush or free style events give the player options to choose from modern day rally and drifting cars like Ford and Subaru.

Dirt: Showdown doesn’t feel like a full game. Dirt 3 had the most rally content in the series, all realistic, and the player had a choice of a range of difficulty settings… none of which are here.

During an event we had the option to setup our vehicle according to the track and conditions of the day.

During the Gymkhana events, where it’s all about style, it is much better to drive a car that has gears, for added control. Showdown doesn’t have any of these features,

Review

he need for good, technical driving games exists, because not all gamers are interested in casual racing games… and that’s where the Dirt series has done well.

However the latest release in the Dirt series, subtitles Showdown, may not be what fans expect.

Just like the previous Dirt titles, Dirt: Showdown, sees the player enter and complete races and events to unlock new races and events to take part in.

Although Dirt is a rally game, Showdown certainly is not. There are no rally events; instead this racing title focuses more on the drifting and destruction derby style events, with some being a mix of the two.

Showdown sports really good graphics; awesome cars, funky tracks and creative venues all look just as good (maybe even better) than before.

But the good looks get repetitive – there are only a

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just point the car in the right directing and hit the gas while tapping the handbrake every now and then (no brakes required). All the vehicles have superb handling, all the driver has to do in races events is just go for it.

Vehicle can be upgraded after winning an event but that doesn’t matter, either; after upgrades the vehicle still feels the same.

The game soundtrack is not too bad, with a mix of different genres and the only let down is the race commentator, which always refers to the player as they: “they did it” or “they’ve taken the win”.

This title is not for the hard core fans of rally games but it is really fun to play.

Gamers don’t get much chance to race and destroy their car at the same time, after all, and this one allows for that.

Showdown does get addictive but will also need some patience to get used to after playing Dirt3.

The controls are basic and are no different from the other Dirt titles (minus being able to drive in manual).

Patience will also be the test every time the game is inserted into the console; if you’re not playing online this game will make sure to work on your last nerve.

After the player has inserted the game it will ask them to redeem VIP codes…

Oh by the way, you’re not connected to the internet (I Know that) but let’s try anyway (then tries to connect).

Unable to connect , after hitting the continue button and setting the game to not ask this again, don’t be surprised when every time you play, you’ll need to go through this painful process.

This title is fun in its own way, but seems to be more online orientated, and for those who aren’t playing online, this might not be the game for you as Showdown just feels better when taking on online events. g

AT A GLANCE: Driving Simulator

Reviewed on:

X360

Not what you would expect from the Dirt franchise Similar to: MaxPlayers Developer: Publisher: Distributer:

Dirt Local

2

Network

Online

8

Codemasters Codemasters Megarom

Parental Advisory

7+ gladget • issue 21 • June 2012

0

Violence Language Sex Drug Use Prejudice

Accessibility Hard-Core Medium Casual

Platforms

Genre:

PC X360 Kinect

PS3 Move

Wii PSV DS 3DS

Score

70 75

Lollipop Chainsaw

Smut and Violence Oh, look, it’s Suda51 again…

by Walt Pretorius

I

Don’t get me wrong. I don’t mind violence in games. I laugh at fart jokes. And yes, game girls can be sexy. But what this guy does it take everything to an extreme that crosses the border of obscenity.

Take his latest effort – Lollipop Chainsaw – as an example. The game is full of lewd jokes, short skirts, foul language and sexual references, counterpointed against heavy violence. It has these in spades. What it doesn’t have is a game dynamic that is fun, or even remotely addictive. The thing that counts the most – an enjoyable gaming experience – has been shunned in favour of big boobs and as many creative uses of the F word as possible.

The game’s protagonist is Juliet, a cheerleader-slashzombie-hunter (which obviously makes sense to Suda51) who is victim to every stereotype one could imagine.

Controlling her movement is OK, but when it comes to combat, things get rather sluggish; like trying to alley-dock

Review

have what could only be called a ‘developer gagreflex’. And while I will admit that I am one of those forgiving, always keen types that expects the best from pretty much every game (until I am proven wrong by it) I balk when I see the name Suda51 attached to a game. That is because, even though I am all bright-eyed, bushy-tailed and keen when a new game arrives on my desk, I learn from experience. And every experience I have had with Suda51 has been nasty. No More Heroes?

Nasty. Shadows of the Damned? Ditto.

The association I have with that name is quite simple: gratuitous violence, foul language, smutty innuendo and a strange sense of what is cool. But whatever geekboy fantasy of cool that Suda51 seems to believe is awesome quite simply isn’t. Thus far all I have seen from this ‘acclaimed’ game creator is vulgarity, crudeness and gratuitousness.

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an eighteen-wheeler in a swimming pool full of syrup. There is no flow, with the movements being more about style and panty-flashes than actual, effective in-game combat.

The dynamic soon devolves into repetitive zombiebashing, punctuated with unimaginative, often frustrating boss fights. Anyone who thinks that it is impossible to make zombie bashing tedious has not played this game yet.

The one plus is that the game has rather cool graphics.

But the rest of the presentation goes for a ball, thanks to really nasty dialogue. Every second NPC in the game is commenting on Juliet’s bra size or admitting that they masturbate to thoughts of her. It’s juvenile, offensive and really, really lame. Even the first time you hear it. And you will hear it a lot.

The player can unlock various power-ups and move combos for Juliet, although they really don’t feel like they’re doing anything to improve the character, or the

monotonous experience the game has on offer. And they can – predictably – unlock a variety of revealing outfits to dress Juliet in. Lovely.

So, what can get worse than inane drivel cloaking boring combat? Length… this game is really short, all told. The player can go and replay levels to post scores on online leader boards, if they like, but what’s the point in reliving the repetitive levels and sluggish combat over and over again?

Sure, there are a moment or two of brilliance in this game (particularly in the dialogue of Juliet’s boyfriend’s disembodied head) but they are very few and very far between. Playing it is a chore, and experiencing it is an assault on the player’s good taste and sensibilities. It is typical of games by Suda51 so, if by some strange stretch of the imagination you like his stuff, you may want to try it.

Maybe. g

AT A GLANCE: Third Person Action

Reviewed on:

Poor game dynamics mix with tasteless smut… that’s the recipe here. It’s vulgar just for the sake of it.

Similar to: MaxPlayers Developer: Publisher: Distributer:

Dead Rising, Shadows of the Damned Local

1

Network

Online

0

Grasshopper Manufacture Warner Bros Nu Metro

Parental Advisory

18+ gladget • issue 21 • July 2012

0

Violence Language Sex Drug Use Prejudice

Accessibility Hard-Core Medium Casual

X360 Platforms

Genre:

PC X360 Kinect

PS3 Move

Wii PSV DS 3DS

Score

45 77

DVD SEEN

DVD Seen

A not-quite-fantasic journey...

Movie of the month 78

gladget • issue 21 • July 2012

Hugo A young orphan, Hugo, spends his life living behind the walls of a massive Paris train station. There he maintains the clocks (a job left to him by his errant uncle) and steals to survive, all the while avoiding the gaze of the Station Inspector. But when he encounters a bitter old man, his dreams of finishing his father’s work all but disappear – and yet he is launched into a journey of discovery and adventure.

Directed by the legendary Martin Scorsese, Hugo is a wonderful film for the whole family – there is not a mobster, killer or bad word anywhere to be found in this captivating tale. But it does misrepresent itself a little; while it appears that Hugo is a fantastical tale filled with imagination and oddments, the fact is that it is a rather ordinary world that the movie is set in.

Still, thrilling performances by Ben Kingsley, Sacha Baron Cohen, Chloe Grace Moretz and Jude Law help turn this tale into something that transcends the relative normality of its plot.

And with Scorsese at the helm, there is little chance of the film being anything but beautifully made and well handled.

It’s an unusual subject matter for the Hollywood veteran, but his desire to create a children’s film has resulted in a film that truly is a beautiful experience. g

Ben Kingsley Sacha B. Cohen Jude LaW gladget • issue 21 • July 2012

DIRECTOR: Martin Scorsese DISTRIBUTOR: Nu Metro

FPB Rating: PGV Score

STARRING:

90

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Man on a Ledge

After his wife get brutally attacked and raped, Will (Nicolas Cage) gets approached by a gentlemen called Simon (Guy Pearce) who can help him with his problem. Their company is “good with people” and the only price is a favor in return, at the right time.

When Will is asked to return this favour it turns out to be a little more that he expected and what he doesn’t know is that the “company” is everywhere. As usual, Nicolas Cage’s delivered a what you call an “expected performance” – dimed by an average movie which seems to be the norm for his latest roles. Other than Nic Cage, Guy Pearce is okay and there’s a decent show by January Jones. Seeking Justice just lacks that something special, even though it is directed by Roger Donaldson (The Bank Job, Dante’s Peak). g

Nicholas Cage January Jones Guy Pearce

80

DIRECTOR:

Roger Donaldson

DISTRIBUTOR: Ster Kinekor

FPB Rating: 13LV Score

DVD Seen

STARRING:

75

It’s early morning in New York City when someone spots a man standing on a window ledge. Anticipating a suicide, a crowd gathers, and soon the police and all kinds of rescue services show up, too. But the man has more on his mind that ending his life – he requests a specific negotiator, setting in motion events that lead to an often thrilling, edge of your seat adventure.

Man on a Ledge is not what one would call revolutionary, but it is good entertainment, none the less. Directed by Asger Leth, the film spins an interesting yarn that sometimes gets predictable, and keeps you guessing at others. Excellent performances by current Hollywood favourite Sam Worthington, Ed Harris, Jamie Bell and relative newcomer Genesis Rodriguez combine with solid cinematography and well paced editing to provide the viewer with a rather enjoyable film.

It won’t revolutionise action thrillers, but this film is well worth watching. It takes an old story and adds a new edge to it, and allows the actors to show a surprising amount of versatility in their roles. In short, it is worth the effort. g

STARRING:

DIRECTOR:

Sam Worthington Ed Harris Jamie Bell

DISTRIBUTOR: Nu Metro

Asger Leth

FPB Rating: 13LV Score

Seeking Justice

82

gladget • issue 21 • July 2012

Scream of the Banshee

The loner Anthony (Scott Mechlowicz) starts up a restaurant in the middle of nowhere. When his friend Julian decides to visit him, Julian convinces Anthony to start up a detective agency to help a classy escort unravel the truth, which happens to involve a few high profile people. Cat Ran was a mix up of different genres and sub plots. The cinematography is excellent, capturing the more beautiful side of Europe. Writer Nick Ball and John Niven put together a well thought out story, which is well directed by John Stockwell.

Janet McTeer, as an ex-MI6 agent turned hired gun, turns out a strong performance… with great fighting skills as well. Scott Mechlowicz (Euro Trip) puts out a good performance in this mix of hilarious action film that will keep you watching till the end credits. g

Paz Vega Scott Mechlowicz Janet McTeer

DIRECTOR: John Stockwell DISTRIBUTOR: Ster Kinekor

gladget • issue 21 • July 2012

FPB Rating: 18LNSV Score

STARRING:

80

As a college Archaeology professor tries to unlock a medieval Irish box, unaware of its contents. She only knows that the Irish Knights Templar sealed it over a century ago. When Professor Isla Whelan (Lauren Holly) unlocks the box, she releases a creature able to kill with its deadly scream. Scream of the Banshee had such a great idea for a horror film, but was more along the lines of a horrible film. Overacted scenes littered the movie, as well as really bad post work and special effects.

Some horror films can be bad but still artistic, with a good script yet pathetic special effects, for example – you need one great aspect of a horror and the rest doesn’t really matter. But Scream of the Banshee fails on all accounts; the best part of this feature is the highlight reel. g

STARRING: Lauren Holly Lance Henriksen Todd Haberkom

DIRECTOR: Steven C Miller DISTRIBUTOR: Ster Kinekor

FPB Rating: 16V Score

Cat Run

45 81

Some Guy Who Kills People

A wealth of South African film-making talent comes together in Material, a film about a man trying to break out of the confines placed upon him by his father. Kassim Kaif (played by stand-up comedian Riaad Moosa) is a funny guy. During the day, when he is not working with his father in their failing fabric shop, he sneaks out to do stand-up comedy gigs. But the father’s strict temperament, belief that his son will follow in his footsteps and opinion that too much laughter is against the tenets of Islam all stand in the way of Cassim realising his dreams.

Admittedly, I approached this film with some scepticism. But Material does a great job of showing exactly what South African film makers are capable of. The humour moves away from the expected lowbrow stuff we see in local films, adding greatly to a film that has a strong plot, excellent production values, decent acting and a few important messages and observations.

It is an interesting look into the customs and culture of the Muslim community in Johannesburg, and goes a lot deeper than one might expect. And there are a few good laughs in it, too. Material is a great film to unwind to, so long as you don’t expect the silly humour that local films are notorious for. g

Riaad Moosa Joey Rasdien Vincent Ebrahim

82

DIRECTOR:

Craig Freimond

DISTRIBUTOR: Nu Metro

FPB Rating: PG13 Score

DVD Seen

STARRING:

88

After being recently released from a mental hospital, Ken Boyd (Kevin Corrigan), a talented artist, tries to live a normal life. Working in the local ice-cream shop he still gets bullied, triggering memories and emotions that could set off a killing spree the town hasn’t seen before. This is a well written story by Ryan Levin, which keeps the viewer in suspense during this humorous murder mystery slasher . This film, in some sense, felt cheesy, but that is also is the same reason that makes it so good. Director Jack Perez takes a page or two from Quintin Tarantino’s book here.

Actor Kevin Corrigan, who plays as the artistic and soft mental patient, does a great job portraying the character and relaying the message to the viewer. This film is almost so cliché that it isn’t, with a plot twist that will put a smile of your face. g

STARRING:

DIRECTOR:

Kevin Corrigan Barry Bostwick Karen Black

DISTRIBUTOR: Ster Kinekor

Jack Perez

FPB Rating: 16VL Score

Material

79

gladget • issue 21 • July 2012

A Beginner’s Guide to Endings

Caroline Wexler (Kat Dennings) and her father move to a small town to get away from the city life and the memories of their deceased mother and wife.

Caroline doesn’t seem to fit in with the people of her age and soon falls deeply in love with her teacher, Mr Anderson (Josh Lucas). This twisted love triangle starts off slowly but soon gets very interesting. The cinematography is the highlight of the film, as well as great acting by Kat Dennings (Thor) as the emotionally tough and mature teenager. Josh Lucas, as the deranged school teacher Mr Anderson, delivered the part well too. A great script and multiple sub-plots tie in well with each other, combined with a decent soundtrack. g

Kat Dennings Andie McDowell Josh Lucas

DIRECTOR: Mike Goldbach DISTRIBUTOR: Ster Kinekor

gladget • issue 21 • July 2012

FPB Rating: 16LSD Score

STARRING:

75

When a father ends his life because he couldn’t afford his gambling debts, he leaves a detailed will behind… letting his three oldest sons know that they’re going to die soon. They set out to live out their biggest dreams and sort out some unfinished business. Writer and director Jonathan Sobol delivers a sharp comedy script with a dramatic story line and the end product is something every viewer will enjoy watching. The allstar cast did a great job as distraught sons, with great timing on sarcastic jokes. Standout performances by Paulo Costanzo (Road Trip) and JK Simmons (Oz) and not forgetting Harvey Keitel (National Treasure, Pulp Fiction) help make this film a treat. This film has a great soundtrack and good work on the post editing side. g

STARRING: Harvey Keitel JK Simmons Tricia Helfer

DIRECTOR: Jonathan Sobol DISTRIBUTOR: Ster Kinekor

FPB Rating: 16L Score

Daydream Nation

77 83

DVD SEEN DVD S

DVD Seen

A true masterpiece...

Collectable 84

gladget • issue 21 • July 2012

SEEN DVD SEEN The Mission The Mission is a true cinematic masterpiece. From the awesome performances of Robert De Niro and Jeremy Irons through to the hauntingly beautiful score written by Ennio Morricone, The Mission hits all the right notes.

When a small mission deep in the Brazilian jungle is threatened by colonial powers, the priest in charge (Irons) sets up a passive resistance. A warrior seeking contrition for his acts (De Niro) arrives at the monastery, and begins atoning for his sins. But when the colonials arrive and try to subjugate the local native population, the two men must choose between the way of the cloth, and the way of the sword.

To call The Mission moving is the same as saying that the Pacific Ocean is big. It is an understatement of gross proportions.

This film, nominated for seven Oscars, was one of the best films to be made in the 1980s, and holds all of its sweeping power and moving magnificence to this day. It has aged perfectly, and still provides the viewer with an experience that is extremely emotional and highly thought-provoking.

The Mission is one of those movies that simply must be a part of a DVD collection. It transcends the mere idea of cinema, and shows exactly how the medium can be elevated to the level of true art, without compromising on plot, setting or accessibility. Awesome stuff. g

Robert De Niro Jeremy Irons Liam Neeson gladget • issue 21 • July 2012

DIRECTOR: Roland Joffe DISTRIBUTOR: Nu Metro

FPB Rating: PG Score

STARRING:

96

85

Signature Series!

Money to Burn

For... um... yeah, her...

by Walt Pretorius

Regular

A

lright, so we don’t really do the celebrity thing. We have no idea who Jo-Emma Larvin is. When we heard that Stuart Hughes, or favourite designer of all things opulent and ostentatious, designed a special iPhone 4S for her signature series, we underwent a moment of “who?” Then we did the geek thing and Googled her. And we still don’t know who she is. Her official fanclub page is a raw Word Press blog. It seems she acted in some stuff, apparently. And she’s pretty. But we couldn’t find out all that much more – or, actually, we weren’t all that inclined to. What was more important to us is that the phone is available for a price of around a quarter of a million rand. Awesome.

Put me down for two.

So what makes the iPhone 4S Diamond & Platinum edition worth more than a decent car? And why was it uniquely designed for Jo-Emma Larvin’s signature series? OK, honestly, we don’t really care about the second question. It’s why the phone has such a… splendid… price tag that intrigues us. Sure, we’re used to Apple products being expensive, but this is ridiculous.

Well, the name gives you a bit of a clue. First of all,

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the edge of the phone is encrusted with 7.8 carats of diamonds (which were probably mined in South Africa.)

The back of the phone is solid platinum (we mine that, too.) The Apple logo is solid platinum, surrounded by a further 0.53 carats of ice (still, likely from good old SA.) Funny thing is, there are probably about three people living here in South Africa that could afford one…

That’s OK, they only made 25. The wealth and overthe-top statements need to be spread around the globe.

Besides, having a phone like this would probably result in some poor mugger or smash-and-grab artist dying of a coronary when he saw what he just nicked… probably better that we don’t have any, then.

Still, it’s a pretty crazy prospect, particularly when you consider that mobile handsets are so easy misplaced, stolen, stood on and dropped in the loo. But if you have the money for it, why not? You’ll have a really swanky phone until two years later when, statistically, you’ll want an upgrade. Perhaps you can then melt your iPhone down and have a nice set of earrings made.

That’s more than you can do with a normal, obsolete iPhone…. g gladget • issue 21 • July 2012

Quest for Choosing the right graphics card may be tricky

PC Build

M

any years ago, a shift in the computer industry created the need for a new kind of component: the graphics processor. This shift came largely from the need of video games to have more processing power for visuals. Within just a few years, graphics cards (as they became colloquially known) became one of the most hotly contested markets in the PC component industry.

These days, the competition is still fierce, with the two main chip manufacturers, Nvidia and AMD Radeon, duking it out for supremacy. This means that the end user has a lot of variety in the form of graphics cards. That also means that picking the right one can be very tricky.

The fact that graphics cards are traditionally seen as ‘gaming gear’ make them something of a grudge purchase for many users. If you have the right motherboard, that has ports for connecting monitors directly, they aren’t even necessary. But there are advantages to having a graphics

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card that are undeniable.

One of these is the ability to run multiple displays, an apparently opulent practice that is actually extremely beneficial to PC users. Another is the fact that much of the graphic-oriented load placed on the PC’s CPU is taken over by the graphics card, resulting in faster performance overall – even when the user is not using high end graphics applications, like games.

Speaking of games, if you are planning to run any game software on your PC, the graphics card becomes a necessity. Modern cards do not only remove graphics load from the CPU, but many also handle in-game physics, a very important aspect of the modern video game. This means that even less load is placed on the CPU. In structure, a graphics card is almost like a mini computer itself. It is generally speaking the largest component (after the motherboard) that you will need for your PC, and gladget • issue 21 • July 2012

Power

although they come in a variety of shapes and sizes, they all have processors, RAM and cooling systems in common.

The cooling system is not really something you’re going to be looking at when you make your choice of graphics cards.

It is a safe assumption that manufacturers use decent cooling for all their cards. Rather, the major considerations are the GPU and RAM. Both manufacturers have a range of GPUs, defined by numbers. The general rule is that the higher the number, the more powerful the GPU. This is then supported by the RAM and, just like with the system RAM you purchase, more is more.

The problem for many buyers, though, is that the graphics card is often the most expensive component in their PC. A high end graphics card may cost as much as (if not more than) all the internal components combined. This means that one should buy the graphics card they can reasonably gladget • issue 21 • July 2012

by Alex Scalon

afford. It shouldn’t be skimped on, though- here is one of the cases where balance in purchasing choices is essential.

This idea goes even further. Graphics cards are power hungry and a higher end card may necessitate the purchase of a more powerful (and consequently more expensive) power supply.

Those that want extreme graphics performance, whether for gaming or other resource intensive applications, can consider the purchase of multiple graphics cards. Most motherboards and GPU units will support the use of more than one card, resulting in even better performance.

To say the choice of graphics card is important is an understatement. This is one of the components that will require some research, at least. The internet is full of a wealth of trusted information sources regarding them, so a little time spent researching is a great idea. Making the right choice here can make all the difference. g

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