Bring The Noise Gaming: March 2015

Tuesday, March 31, 2015

Gaming Software Review: Free Video Compressor

Gaming Software Review:

Free Video Compressor

When it comes to compressing recorded videos, there are so many programs to consider. The first logical jump (and for good reason) would be to try "Movie Maker" developed by Microsoft. No doubt, Movie Maker does in fact get the job done, but the interface and random program crashes can make it difficult to complete the compression process and just seems to muck it up with too many options. However, if one digs deep enough, there is always a simpler and/or more effective option. That's why Free Video Compressor takes the cake in this review.

Free Video Compressor is exactly what the name implies. It's FREE and it has an amazing ability to compress videos without confusing the user or crashing in the process. The design of this program is without a doubt, absolutely, positively easy to use. All it takes is choosing what file needs compressing, select a compression size and then click the magic button to start the process and you are finished. The compression time for Free Video Compressor differs (as one can expect) depending on file size. Free Video Compressor also does a phenomenal job of keeping the high quality of the original video intact.

Not only does the user have several compression size options to choose from, but there is also a tab that allows the user to choose the level of sound quality. As if this wasn't enough, within the same window (without any clutter or nonsense!) the user can easily identify the properties of the original file so that adjustments can be made accordingly. And as a little bonus, Free Video Compressor also adds a "Cutting" and "Scaling" tool so that videos can get those "icing on the cake" touches.

Overall, Free Video Compressor is a great option and counterpart to any video recording software (like FRAPS) and delivers a "no mess, no fuss" interface that anybody can use!

For more information on Free Video Compressor or to download the program, please visit:

http://freevideocompressor.com/

Be sure to check out my other content!

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9wBb1EsrvF6mEPTWD1d0qA

Blog: http://btngaminggamereviews.blogspot.com/

Tumblr: http://bringthenoisegaming.tumblr.com/

Follow me on Twitter: @BTN_Gaming

Gaming Software Review: FRAPS

Gamers and Youtubers, computer enthusiasts and general video makers, there is a program out there by the name of FRAPS that meets the needs of anybody who wishes to record pretty much anything you can throw at it.

FRAPS is a great recording program that has the ability to fit so many needs. It has also been around for quite some time and has been a cornerstone for many Youtubers/game video makers and this is the reason why BTN Gaming has decided to shine the spotlight on it.

First of all, the design of FRAPS is easy to read and is absolutely user friendly. In fact, it's so simple that all one has to do is set a few settings and it's ready to use. It allows the user to capture video in the exact resolution of the game played (or program run) and thus, gives the quality playback that anyone can appreciate. FRAPS also has a great support site that can answer any questions that the user might have.

On the flipside, as with any great innovation worth having, there is a price tag of $37.00 (US Currency) and one other drawback is the fact that the files that are created by FRAPS are pretty sizable ".avi" files. This can be quite the hassle when it comes to being able to upload videos to the internet as most sites require an "MP4" or "MPEG" format. Said requirement brings on the task of formatting these large files so that they are not only coded to specifications, but also drastically smaller in size. That said, this process can take quite some time depending on how big the original recording is. (Roughly between 20 minutes to 2 hours.) This minor flaw, however, can be easily overlooked as the plethora of uses are realized.

All in all, FRAPS is a must have for any avid gamer who wishes to post those #REKT moments or even the casual gamer who desires to shine light on easter eggs or tutorials. Given the many ways FRAPS can apply to the gaming/computing world, all that power can be grasped for just $37.00.

For more information on FRAPS or to download/purchase the program please visit:

http://www.fraps.com/

Thursday, March 26, 2015

Windows Phone Game Review: Castlemine Deluxe

Windows Phone Game Review: Castlemine

If you are a gamer or avid phone user who just so happens to enjoy a good tower defense game, then Castlemine is exactly what you are looking for.

First off, the actual layout of the game is simple, but not too simple. It is extremely easy to read and it takes a total of ten seconds, max, to get the hang of what you are doing. The concept of the game is a first in tower defense games, as it allows the player to actually build the path of the baddies instead of being stuck with a winding path and trying to decide what choke points are best. This is a huge plus because it allows the player to build their towers around a grand design that will allow for maximum damage as well as ultimate safety.

Not only is the "build your own path" idea a great concept, but the game has a variety of different towers placed into three different categories. Each basic tower can be upgraded to maximize damage, and once a certain level threshold is hit, the player is given the opportunity to evolve the tower down one of two different paths. Each of these evolutions is different for each tower type and all are a must have at some point in the game! This makes every single tool that Castlemine offers absolutely crucial and therefore earns a BIG stamp of approval.

Not only can the player evolve the towers in the actual level, but before the level select the player is also given the opportunity to upgrade their towers in a separate screen. These upgrades span anywhere from boosted damage, to better gold gain, to longer range, and even more! This adds a whole other dimension to the game and gives a sense of control to the player. Not only is the power given to the player to make these choices, but the unique "level up" system is what gives the player the skill points needed in order to upgrade the towers, and this in turn creates that drive (and want!) to keep playing.

With all of this great stuff that Castlemine has implemented, the most critical of downfalls (and even then it's not exactly a terrible thing) is this wonderful game has not been updated for a couple of years and has kinda fallen to the wayside. All in all, one can hope for newer levels or maybe a tougher difficulty, but it just doesn't look promising. Ah well, what's a guy to do?

All in all, through and through, Castlemine has earned its stripes in the tower defense genre and a definite recommendation for the casual "phone game" player. It's great in its overall concept and the upgrade features of the game establish a sense of freedom that so many phone games seem to lack. But if you are looking for a frequently updated game, you won't get it. It's a "beat it and delete it" type of game.

For more information on this game or to check prices in the store, please check out the links below:

iOS : https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/castlemine/id644848470?mt=8

Android : https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.mugshotgames.castlemine&hl=en

Windows: http://www.windowsphone.com/en-us/store/app/castlemine-free/2f3d94f1-51a1-4cfc-9b9a-328c6f9986bb

Tuesday, March 24, 2015

Games For Change Review: Farm Blitz

Overall, I give this game a rating of 8 out of 10.

First and foremost, I like the overall concept of the game and the idea that it teaches the player about savings versus debt and defines exactly what the term "compound interest" means. Another great factor of this game is the "tile matching" concept. The more plants you line up in a row, the more money you make and in turn the less waste you have. It really nails the concept of making the right choices at the right time and the positive consequences that it promotes. It is definitely a great game to take a shot at if you have about 30 to 45 minutes to kill.

On the flipside, however, the game is quite simple. Though this isn't completely detrimental to the overall experience, it does take away slightly from the tools that the game offers, such as the dynamite and the shovel. Understandably, these tools are there for when the game gets a bit rough and you find yourself knee deep in rotten veggies or rabbit holes. I, however, had not experienced the need for these tools in the three times that I have played the game.

On that note, I find this game has a very high replay value and the concepts that it tries to teach the player are spot on. Other than being slightly simple in structure, this game is a great teaching tool when it comes to fiscal responsibility and could be great for all ages.

To see what others thought of this game and to find out more information:

http://www.gamesforchange.org/play/farm-blitz/

Thursday, March 12, 2015

Games For Change Review: The Great Piggy Bank Adventure

Overall, I give this game a rating of 8 out of 10.

For all intents and purposes, this game hits all the right notes at all the right times. Not only does it have a great replay value, but I also feel that it is absolutely perfect for the target age range. I also like the fact that it has the "boardgame" style feature, and it actually feels like you are working towards a goal. Another high note with this game in particular, are the mini games that come along with the challenge questions.

I would have to say that the only real flaw is the simple fact that the single player mode of this game is lacking. It is far too short and I just feel that it is necessary to have more than one player per game just so that the game is able to shine for what it is worth.

All in all, "The Great Piggy Bank Adventure" is a great tool help younger generations understand the simple principles of saving money, and it would be a great game to have on hand for times when you need to occupy many kids at once.

To see what others thought of this game and to find out more information:

http://www.gamesforchange.org/play/the-great-piggy-bank-adventure/

Wednesday, March 11, 2015

Games For Change Review: The Young Meteorologist Program

Overall, I give this game a 6 out of 10

First of all, I'd like to say that the information that this game gives is most definitely thorough and being a complete weather nut, I am absolutely happy about this fact. It gives so much information on the different weather dangers as well as makes sure that the player is well-rehearsed to know exactly what to do in each and every weather emergency. It's a definite must for early age learning, as well as a great activity for students, both home schooled and public schooled.

On the flipside, however, it is the simple fact that this can even barely be called a "game." There is absolutely no replay value, and there is also very little actual interaction with the environment. The rolls of the dice are actually preprogrammed in to make sure that the story follows a certain path. This, for me personally, is a big no-no when it comes to calling something a "game." A game should have the sense of competition as well as some sort of unpredictable fun factor. Another slight downfall of the game is in fact with the information given. As I said above, I love the information and how in-depth it goes, however there is SO much information given that even I found it hard to stay attentive and withstand the long spiels that each scientist gives.

With all of this taken into account, it is by far definitely a great education tool, as well as a wonderful story for younger ages, but I find it difficult to actually call this particular piece a game.

To see what others thought of this game and to find out more information:

http://www.gamesforchange.org/play/young-meteorologist-program/

Be sure to check out my other content!

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9wBb1EsrvF6mEPTWD1d0qA

Tumblr: BringTheNoiseGaming

Follow me on Twitter: @BTN_Gaming

Wednesday, March 4, 2015

Games For Change Review: Plague Inc.

Overall I give this game an 8 out of 10.

I have played this game over and over and over, and therefore the replay value of the game is definitely a major factor. Given the different difficulty levels and the amount of time that it takes to actually "infect the world" and win the game, it definitely was able to keep my attention. I also liked the fact that the random discoveries in medicine tended to thwart my efforts, probably more times than I can count.

On the flipside, however, some of the difficulty levels are just plain stubborn. I had found myself restarting over and over again to get just the right combination. Another downside to the game is in fact the "pay to play" option. I have never been a big fan of this option in many games, and I just don’t see the point in it with this particular game.

In closing, Plague Inc. is a great time killer when bored and have access to it. It challenges the brain and the thinking process to concoct just the right poison that will win the game. A definite must for those times when you need something to hold your attention.

For more information on this game and to see what other users thought of it go to:

http://www.gamesforchange.org/play/plague-inc/