Can Video Games Save the World?

There’s no doubt that gaming has transformed the way many people live their lives. It’s created a culture of people who have morphed their perspectives and skill sets according to the games they play. However, it can be a gamer’s tendency to behave differently while playing a game than they do in the real world. One extraordinarily passionate game designer from the Institute for the Future, Jane McGonigal, shared her research and beliefs on this topic at a recent Ted conference. She claims it is possible to fuse the real and virtual to accomplish the feat of saving the world, one gamer at a time. Jane’s research revealed historical evidence that ancient man played games and the correlating positive effects that it had on society at large and that belief can be the same for the present and future. How can we do this exactly? By playing more games of course. Games that can enrich and expand our lives says Jane. There must be something to it because even the White House is creating a game. The U.S. government recently commissioned MicroSoft to develop an online game that gives players the ability to manage the Federal Budget. This project is an effort to show people how challenging this task truly is although it’s built with a few bells and whistles to keep it interesting.

 

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Do you think gaming can save the world?

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CowBoom Giveaway for February 10th, 2010

Welcome to CowBoom’s Giveaway of the Day!

It’s simple! Follow the steps below for a chance to win!

  • Create a CowBoom Account here.
  • Sign in and comment on the question
  • One lucky winner will win a $25 Best Buy Gift Card!

9 Video Game Accessories Under $25

Attention all budget gamers, we have compiled a recent list of quality used video game accessories from our store, and conveniently listed them for your viewing pleasure!

1. Microsoft HDMI HD AV Cable for Xbox 360 $11.99

Prepare for enhanced audio enjoyment. This HDMI Cable provides you with separate audio and video connections via the included audio adapter. The audio adapter allows HDMI video to be routed to your HDTV, while the audio is routed separately to your home speaker system.

Without the audio adapter, the video and audio signals would both be carried by the HDMI cable. That would force users without a costly HDMI receiver to listen to their Xbox 360 game and movie audio via their TV speakers. That is not the case with the included adapter – youll be able to hear every blast, word, music note and sound effect through your home entertainment system speakers for audio that really packs a punch.

Click here for Microsoft AV Cable Manual

Features:
Connects quickly and easily to your Xbox 360
Included audio adapter allows for separate audio and video connections
Listen to your Xbox 360 gaming and movie audio through your home entertainment system speakers
Saves you from purchasing an HDMI receiver
Makes the most of your audio potential

2. Pelican Wireless Gaming Adapter for XBox 360 $18.99

Pelican Wireless Gaming Adapter XBox 360

Enhance your online gaming experience with this wireless gaming adapter. Whether you seek to destroy opponents on Xbox Live or are looking to download exclusive content, you want to do it without any hassle. In just a few steps, this adapter easily configures to your home wireless network to help get you quickly get online and into the game.

Click here to get the installation software

3. Griffin React Wii Controller Charge Station + Batteries $15.00

Griffin React Four Controller Charge Station for Nintendo Wii Make sure you always have the power you need when enjoying your Nintendo Wii. This charge station holds and charges up to four Wii Remotes, so you can be at your best for any gaming occasion.

The LED charge indicator lets you know when you are charged up at maximum power.

Product Features
Easily charges up to four Wii Remotes
LED charge indicator alerts you when charging is complete

4. Microsoft Wireless Controller for Xbox 360 (White) $19.00

Microsoft Wireless Controller for XBox 360 (White)

Using optimized technology, the Xbox 360 Wireless Controller lets you enjoy a 30-foot range and up to 40 hours of life on two AA batteries (not included) and when they run low, youre given ample warning so you can connect a Play Charge cable (not included) for uninterrupted play. Plug the Xbox 360 Headset (not included) into the controller for full duplex voice communication: a wireless first.

With quick access to Xbox 360 features including DVDs, music, pictures, and more, along with the ability to support four wireless controllers simultaneously, gamers can experience wireless freedom, precision, high quality, and performance for endless gameplay. Experience easy Vibration Control with a simple On or Off setting to match your personal preference

The Xbox Guide Button at the center of the controller gives you quick access to all your favorite Xbox 360 system activities, such as watching movies, listening to music, contacting friends on Xbox Live, and customizing your gaming experiences.

Click here for the manual

5. Nintendo Remote Controller for Nintendo Wii $20.99

Nintendo Wii Remote ControllerBreak away from conventional gameplay with the wireless Remote for your Nintendo Wii. Not only will the freehand Remote offer you a greater range of motion than a traditional joystick, the highly receptive motion sensors contained inside will make your senses come alive. Performing everyday motions, such as swinging a bat or banging on a drum, suddenly make you the center of your favorite games. One of the most multifaceted devices to hit the gaming world, you can use the Remote as a sword in a swashbuckling pirate game, as a steering wheel in a racing derby and so much more.

Equipped with Bluetooth technology, the wireless Remote Controller sends your actions to the Wii console from as far as 30 feet away, while using it as a pointing device can transport a signal from as far as 15 feet away. The familiarity of a TV remote fuses with the sophistication of motion-sensing technology to bring you this input device for the ages.

Product Features
Sensitive motion sensors accentuate your sense of touch as you perform the motions of the game
Equipped with a speaker, a rumble feature and an expansion port that supports additional input devices
Sports the same size as a traditional TV remote control for ease of use
Trade in excessive cording and complicated buttons without sacrificing depth of play
Connect up to four Wii wireless Remotes at once for intense multiplayer fun.

6. Microsoft Wireless Controller for Xbox 360 (Black) $20.00

Microsoft Wireless Controller for Xbox 360 - Black

Features
2.4GHz wireless technology with 30-foot range
Use up to four controllers simultaneously on one console
Integrated headset port for Xbox Live play
Adjustable vibration feedback for longer battery life
New left and right shoulder buttons are designed for ease of use
Use the Xbox 360 Guide button to keep track of your friends, access your games and media, or power on and off your Xbox 360 console

Click here for the manual

7. DreamGear Dual Glow Sabers for Nintendo Wii $6.00

Dreamgear Dual Glow Sabers for Nintendo WiiMay the force be with you.  Glow effects add extra intensity to your fun.  Great for any game requiring slashing motions.

8. Datel Wireless Microphone for Nintendo Wii $6.00

Datel Wireless Microphone for Nintendo WiiUse this wireless microphone to make your Nintendo Wii gameplay even more compelling and convenient. Featuring 2.4GHz technology and offering a range of up to 15, youll find it easy to really show off your vocal talents. This microphone works with most karaoke games for completely wireless action.

Features:
Talk and sing with a range of up to 15
Features powerful 2.4GHz technology
For use with most karaoke games
Battery: 9-volt

9. Datel Gaming Headset for Playstation 3 $3.00

Datel Gaming Headset for PS3Interactive gameplay adds new layers of fun. Now you can be a part of the action with the Gaming Headset for PlayStation 3. With a comfortable over-the-ear design and a high-precision microphone, this Gaming Headset provides high-quality performance that adds more excitement.

You will be able to talk and strategize while you play your favorite PlayStation 3 games. Use the headset to chat online with other gamers. Simply plug the headset into any USB port on your PlayStation 3 and youll hear crystal-clear sound.

Product Features:
Over-the-ear headphones offer high-quality audio transmissions
Sensitive microphone enables gamers to chat
Easily plugs into any USB port on your PlayStation 3
Brings players into the game for a new dimension of excitement
Lightweight materials allow you to maneuver comfortably.

Violent Games Can Improve Your Eyesight? Sweet….

Call of Duty

How Violent Games Can Improve Your Eyesight

As a kid growing up, my parents would always tell me my eyes would go bad playing too much video games.  Well according to scientists from the University of Rochester New York, adults playing violent video games will actually help improve their night vision for driving.  This sort of video-game therapy helped people distinguish different shades of grey.  So how did they test this theory and which games did they use?

They had 22 students divided into two groups. One group played Call of Duty 2 and Unreal Tournament while the second group played the The Sims 2.  Each group played for 50 hours.

At the end of the training session, the group playing the violent, action packed video games showed a 43% improvement of distinguishing their shades of grey. The group who played the non-violent Sims 2 showed no sign of improvement, but then again playing 50 hours of the Sims without going postal is an accomplishment in itself.

Read the full article here

Need a video game console?

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Guitar Hero with a….Banjo?

I just cant seem to get that one scene from the movie Deliverance out of my head, but If you feel like the guitars from Guitar Hero are a little too rock and rollish, then build yourself a Banjo Hero!

The banjos were built from students at Rochester Institute of Technology who participated in the “Alternative Controllers Seminar”.   Not only did they customize the game controller into a banjo, but they also had to write custom software and music to go with it.  I can see the groupies lining up already.

Dont have the time to turn your Guitar Hero accessories into your personal instrument of destruction?  Check out our extensive line of Guitar Hero accessories for XBox 360, PS3, and Wii. Weve got deals that will make ya squeal like a pig!  Ok, thats enough movie references for today.


[via psfk.com]

Click Here To Read The Full Story at psfk.com

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Used Playstation 3 Systems At CowBoom

PS3 Systems

Used Playstation 3 Systems

Attention all gamers, not doing anything Saturday nights? Cowboom still has tons of quality used Sony Playstation 3 systems available in their store and auction.  Weve got tons of 40, 60, 80, and 160gb PS3 systems in stock that will kill all those weekend hours. Why get a used PS3 you might ask? Well…..why not?  We test each unit before listing them online and we do offer a return policy, so relax.  Not to mention that you can get a nice used PS3 for fractions of a brand new PS3 console.

Beautifully categorized for your viewing pleasure

1. Used 40GB PS3
2. Used 60GB PS3
3. Used 80GB PS3
4. Used 160GB PS3

Click here to view all our Playstation 3 listings
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Brand New Laptops at Used Prices – CowBoom.com

Brand New Laptops from CowBoom

Looking For Brand New Laptops From CowBoom?

Cowboom has a few brand new laptops in our store for purchase.  We have decided to pinpoint a few out for all the lazies out there who can find it themselves.  Better pick them up before we run out!

Sony NS190J/L 15.4in Laptop C2D 2GHz 4GB 250GB Blu-Ray

Sony Vaio 15.4″ Laptop C2D 2GHz 4GB 250GB Blu-Ray (NS190J/L)

Just because you cant pronounce the name, dont let that discourage you from picking up this Sony Vaio laptop.  Great specs for for people of all ages needing a good laptop for everyday use.  By the way, Vaio is pronounced like the word “bio” but with a “v”, and Vaio stands for Video Audio Integrated Operations.  Now you wont look dumb when showing off your brand new laptop to your friends. Youre welcome. (Starting Price: $615.99)  Click here for more details on the Sony Vaio NS190J/L Laptop

Acer AS5735-4774 15.6in Laptop PDC 2GHz 2GB 160GB DVDRW

Acer 15.6″ Laptop PDC 2GHz 2GB 160GB DVDRW (AS5735-4774)

Easier to pronounce and easier on the wallet.  This is a great laptop for students looking for a great dorm laptop and not having to worry about dropping too much dough on it.  This laptop can be yours for a few pennies, well maybe not pennies, but for a few dollars.  Ok ok you can get this brand new for $359.99.  Click here to get the Acer AS5735-4774 Laptop

HP Pavilion dv5-1002nr Laptop 2GHz 3GB 250GB DVDRW DL

HP Pavilion Laptop 2GHz 3GB 250GB DVDRW DL (DV5-1002NR)

Who knew Hewlett Packard had produced anything stylish?  With an attractive black bordered 15.4″ screen, this laptop puts the “stud” back in study.  Comes with a mobile remote, a webcam, and a buy it now price of $534.99.  Score!
Click here to grab the HP DV51002NR laptop

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Tags: acer hp sony

CowBoom Now Has 5000+ Listings!

More For Less at CowBoom!

Yes folks, the most listings weve ever had on CB.  What does this mean for you?  It means we have more listings on consumer electronics such as laptops, flat-panel monitors, HDTVs, MP3 Players, etc. and more chances for you to get what you want.  Invite your friends, family, enemies, and everyone else because this is just the beginning!  Find something to buy right now in our store or find something in our auctions.  Make sure you bookmark our site for our outrageous deal of the day items.

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Tags: general

Linksys Wireless-G Router T-Mobile HotSpot 12.99 + 4.99 Shipping

Linksys WRTU54G-TM Wireless-G Router T-Mobile HotSpot

Linksys WRTU54G-TM Wireless-G Router T-Mobile HotSpot

$12.99 + $4.99 shipping

We have just lowered the price even lower for the Linksys Wireless-G Router T-Mobile HotSpot.  You cant beat the price for the specs your getting with this router folks.  This router gives excellent WiFi signal quality right out of the the box with support for 2 VoIP lines. It also has a built in 10/100 4-port ethernet switch.

click here for firmware download, setup wizard, user guide, and installation guide.

click here to view product page

Includes:

wrtu54g-tm wireless g router
detachable antenna
power adapter
network cable
stand
setup guide
cd-rom
sim card door
sim card slot covers

MIssing: Sim Card

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Samsung 1080p HD DVD Player

Samsung 1080p HD DVD Player

Samsung HD 1080p DVD Player

This awesome DVD player lets you watch your old, regular DVD movies in high definition resolution.  Thats right folks, theres no reason why you cant watch your old movies in crisp HD quality now.  Blow the dust off your Goonies dvd and watch the truffle shuffle in all its glory!  This DVD player lets you enjoy your DVD movies and digital photos with great quality. The HD upconversion lets you watch DVDs at up to 1080p resolution on a HDTV.

Samsung HD DVD Player

Helpful links for the Samsung 1080p Up-Conversion HD DVD Player:

Users Manual

Download Latest Version Of Your Firmware

How To Upgrade The Firmware On Your Hi Def Conversion DVD player (instructions from the Samsung Website).

Step 1. Creating a Firmware Disc

To create a firmware disc with the new firmware for your DVD player, follow these steps:

  1. Download the latest version of the firmware for your DVD player onto your computer from the Samsung Download Center.
  2. The firmware comes compressed in .ZIP file format.  Extract the file or files from the firmware ZIP file.
  3. With the CD burning software on your computer, burn the firmware file or files to a CD-R, and then finalize the disc.

To install the firmware on your DVD player, follow the steps below.

  1. Turn on your DVD player and your TV, and then set the TV to the DVD players source.
  2. Put the firmware CD in the DVDs disc tray. After the disc loads, a prompt appears on your TV screen asking if you want to upgrade to the new firmware.  Below is an image of the prompt.
  1. Use the directional arrows player on your DVD player remote to highlight the word YES in the prompt, and then press the [ENTER] button. The update process begins and the upgrade screen appears. Below is an image of the upgrade screen.

    Important: While the firmware is installing, do not disrupt the unit, do not press any buttons, or power off the unit.

  1. When the upgrade is complete, your TV displays the upgrade complete screen. Below is an image of the upgrade complete screen.

Product Features

Upconverts standard-definition DVDs to HD-compliant 720p, 1080i or 1080p resolution for display on an HDTV
Plays DVD, DVD-R, DVR+R, DVD-RW, DVD+RW, CD, CD-R, CD-RW, MP3, WMA, JPEG and DivX formats
JPEG viewer lets you view digital photos on your TV screen
Built-in Dolby Digital sound decoder for rich sound
HDMI output provides an uncompressed all-digital audio/video link for the highest-quality connection and supports copy-protected HD broadcast content
108MHz/14-bit video D/A conversion rate
192KHz/24-bit audio D/A conversion rate
Outputs: 1 optical digital audio, 1 coaxial digital audio, 1 composite video, 1 stereo audio, 1 HDMI, 1 component video

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Tags: samsung

Watchmen Video Game Release Dates

Watchmen: The End is Nigh

This Friday will be the movie release of Watchmen, and for gamers there are a few dates to keep in mind for the coincide video game: Watchmen – The End Is Nigh.

Here are the release dates by game consoles:

1. XBox 360 game consoles – Released today, March 4th on XBox Live and Steam.

2. Sony Playstation 3 consoles – Releases on March 5th on Playstation Network.

The release dates were taken from the original website for the video game.  There has already been some mixed reviews of this movie and there will be some mixed reviews of the video game as well.  This brawler-type video game will feature the characters Rorschach and Night Owl battling thugs and criminals before the Keene act was established.  For those of you who dont own any of the game consoles mentioned above, check out our extensive inventory of used video game consoles.  Youre welcome!

click on the image below to go to the game website:

www.watchmenvideogame.com

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9 Video Game Accessories for under 25 Bucks

9 Video Game Accessories under $25

Attention all budget gamers, we have compiled a recent list of quality used video game accessories from our store, and conveniently listed them for your viewing pleasure!  Before you start forum bashing us, shipping is not included with the prices.

1. Microsoft HDMI HD AV Cable for Xbox 360 $11.99

Microsoft HDMI HD A/V Cable for XBox 360Prepare for enhanced audio enjoyment. This HDMI Cable provides you with separate audio and video connections via the included audio adapter. The audio adapter allows HDMI video to be routed to your HDTV, while the audio is routed separately to your home speaker system.

Without the audio adapter, the video and audio signals would both be carried by the HDMI cable. That would force users without a costly HDMI receiver to listen to their Xbox 360 game and movie audio via their TV speakers. That is not the case with the included adapter – youll be able to hear every blast, word, music note and sound effect through your home entertainment system speakers for audio that really packs a punch.

Click here for Microsoft AV Cable Manual

Features:
Connects quickly and easily to your Xbox 360
Included audio adapter allows for separate audio and video connections
Listen to your Xbox 360 gaming and movie audio through your home entertainment system speakers
Saves you from purchasing an HDMI receiver
Makes the most of your audio potential

2. Pelican Wireless Gaming Adapter for XBox 360 $18.99

Pelican Wireless Gaming Adapter XBox 360

Enhance your online gaming experience with this wireless gaming adapter. Whether you seek to destroy opponents on Xbox Live or are looking to download exclusive content, you want to do it without any hassle. In just a few steps, this adapter easily configures to your home wireless network to help get you quickly get online and into the game.

Click here to get the installation software

3. Griffin React Wii Controller Charge Station + Batteries $15.00

Griffin React Four Controller Charge Station for Nintendo Wii Make sure you always have the power you need when enjoying your Nintendo Wii. This charge station holds and charges up to four Wii Remotes, so you can be at your best for any gaming occasion.

The LED charge indicator lets you know when you are charged up at maximum power.

Product Features
Easily charges up to four Wii Remotes
LED charge indicator alerts you when charging is complete

4. Microsoft Wireless Controller for Xbox 360 (White) $19.00

Microsoft Wireless Controller for XBox 360 (White)

Using optimized technology, the Xbox 360 Wireless Controller lets you enjoy a 30-foot range and up to 40 hours of life on two AA batteries (not included) and when they run low, youre given ample warning so you can connect a Play Charge cable (not included) for uninterrupted play. Plug the Xbox 360 Headset (not included) into the controller for full duplex voice communication: a wireless first.

With quick access to Xbox 360 features including DVDs, music, pictures, and more, along with the ability to support four wireless controllers simultaneously, gamers can experience wireless freedom, precision, high quality, and performance for endless gameplay. Experience easy Vibration Control with a simple On or Off setting to match your personal preference

The Xbox Guide Button at the center of the controller gives you quick access to all your favorite Xbox 360 system activities, such as watching movies, listening to music, contacting friends on Xbox Live, and customizing your gaming experiences.

Click here for the manual

5. Nintendo Remote Controller for Nintendo Wii $20.99

Nintendo Wii Remote ControllerBreak away from conventional gameplay with the wireless Remote for your Nintendo Wii. Not only will the freehand Remote offer you a greater range of motion than a traditional joystick, the highly receptive motion sensors contained inside will make your senses come alive. Performing everyday motions, such as swinging a bat or banging on a drum, suddenly make you the center of your favorite games. One of the most multifaceted devices to hit the gaming world, you can use the Remote as a sword in a swashbuckling pirate game, as a steering wheel in a racing derby and so much more.

Equipped with Bluetooth technology, the wireless Remote Controller sends your actions to the Wii console from as far as 30 feet away, while using it as a pointing device can transport a signal from as far as 15 feet away. The familiarity of a TV remote fuses with the sophistication of motion-sensing technology to bring you this input device for the ages.

Product Features
Sensitive motion sensors accentuate your sense of touch as you perform the motions of the game
Equipped with a speaker, a rumble feature and an expansion port that supports additional input devices
Sports the same size as a traditional TV remote control for ease of use
Trade in excessive cording and complicated buttons without sacrificing depth of play
Connect up to four Wii wireless Remotes at once for intense multiplayer fun

6. Microsoft Wireless Controller for Xbox 360 (Black) $20.00

Microsoft Wireless Controller for Xbox 360 - Black

Features
2.4GHz wireless technology with 30-foot range
Use up to four controllers simultaneously on one console
Integrated headset port for Xbox Live play
Adjustable vibration feedback for longer battery life
New left and right shoulder buttons are designed for ease of use
Use the Xbox 360 Guide button to keep track of your friends, access your games and media, or power on and off your Xbox 360 console

Click here for the manual

7. DreamGear Dual Glow Sabers for Nintendo Wii $6.00

Dreamgear Dual Glow Sabers for Nintendo WiiMay the force be with you.  Glow effects add extra intensity to your fun.  Great for any game requiring slashing motions.

8. Datel Wireless Microphone for Nintendo Wii $6.00

Datel Wireless Microphone for Nintendo WiiUse this wireless microphone to make your Nintendo Wii gameplay even more compelling and convenient. Featuring 2.4GHz technology and offering a range of up to 15, youll find it easy to really show off your vocal talents. This microphone works with most karaoke games for completely wireless action.

Features
Talk and sing with a range of up to 15
Features powerful 2.4GHz technology
For use with most karaoke games
Battery: 9-volt

9. Datel Gaming Headset for Playstation 3 $3.00

Datel Gaming Headset for PS3Interactive gameplay adds new layers of fun. Now you can be a part of the action with the Gaming Headset for PlayStation 3. With a comfortable over-the-ear design and a high-precision microphone, this Gaming Headset provides high-quality performance that adds more excitement.

You will be able to talk and strategize while you play your favorite PlayStation 3 games. Use the headset to chat online with other gamers. Simply plug the headset into any USB port on your PlayStation 3 and youll hear crystal-clear sound.

Product Features

Over-the-ear headphones offer high-quality audio transmissions
Sensitive microphone enables gamers to chat
Easily plugs into any USB port on your PlayStation 3
Brings players into the game for a new dimension of excitement
Lightweight materials allow you to maneuver comfortably

Violent Games Can Improve Your Eyesight? Sweet….

How Violent Games Can Improve Your Eyesight

As a kid growing up, my parents would always tell me my eyes would go bad playing too much video games.  Well according to scientists from the University of Rochester New York, adults playing violent video games will actually help improve their night vision for driving.  This sort of video-game therapy helped people distinguish different shades of grey.  So how did they test this theory and which games did they use?

They had 22 students divided into two groups. One group played Call of Duty 2 and Unreal Tournament while the second group played the The Sims 2.  Each group played for 50 hours.

At the end of the training session, the group playing the violent, action packed video games showed a 43% improvement of distinguishing their shades of grey. The group who played the non-violent Sims 2 showed no sign of improvement, but then again playing 50 hours of the Sims without going postal is an accomplishment in itself.

Read the full article here.

Need a video game console?