Archive for the ‘Toys & Games’ Category

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 Is a Big Hit!

Saturday, November 14th, 2009

Call of Duty Modern Warfare 2 Is a Big Hit!

I have to admit that it has been a long time since I’ve picked up a controller and played any sort of computer game.  In fact, I’ve never owned an XBox 360 or a PlayStation 3.  But I did have my time back in the days of the Sega Genesis!  So when it comes to reviewing Call of Duty Modern Warfare 2, I’m forced to count on the experience of those who already have played the game and some of its predecessors.  I offer this product as an affiliate of Amazon, so I’ll put some of their excellent commentary to use in this review also.





One of the first places I go to select a product is to look at the best-sellers on sites such as Amazon.  Right now, Call of Duty Modern Warfare 2 is #1 on their Video Games list.  That means it is HOT! 

Next, I take a look at their ratings section, to see what the feedback is.  Most people will only take the time to comment on a product that they have had a problem with.  It is the nature of people to not pass along compliments as often as complaints.  So, when I see a ratings section like I do for Call of Duty Modern Warfare 2, I’m excited!  Users really love this product!  Over 70% of the comments are 4- or 5-star rated.

Finally, I review the comments section.  Sometimes, even the good comments show a weakness in the product when they leave an “I liked it, but…” comment.  Such is the case for Call of Duty Modern Warfare 2 in a very well written 5-star review in which the writer tells of his disappointment in the story line.  I especially like to look at the 1-star ratings to see why people are disappointed.  Many times it isn’t the product, but a situation.  For example one of the reviews for this product received a 1-star rating because the user didn’t like playing in multi-player mode, and didn’t have the equipment to use that function.

When reviewing comments on Call of Duty Modern Warfare 2, I found these types of comments for the 4- and 5-star ratings:

  • Great game…Short Campaign
  • Had the potential to be a perfect game but it settled for a great game
  • What We Were Hoping For
  • Why are there negative reviews!
  • Exceeded Expectations
  • Multiplayer Extraordinaire
  • No surprise here… It’s a great game!


Here is what Amazon wrote about the game:

The storyline of Modern Warfare 2 picks up where the events of Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare left off. The ultranationalist Russian leader Zakhaev has been eliminated, but it seems that his lieutenant, Vladimir Makarov, is an even bigger danger. Having made a successful play for power, Intel indicates that he is extending the reach of his influence well beyond the borders of Mother Russia, causing a stir in the international community and prompting the involvement of Task Force 141. Task Force 141 is an elite multinational unit made up of Navy Seals, Delta Force operatives, British SAS and CIA. In the single player campaign you are Sergeant Gary “Roach” Sanderson, with the hero of Call of Duty 4, “Soap” MacTavish, promoted to Captain, making an appearance as an NPC (non-player character) and your commanding officer. The elimination of Makarov and his underlings at any cost is your number one priority, regardless where the fight occurs.

Gameplay
The latest release in arguably the most successful tactical first-person shooter franchise of all-time, gameplay in Modern Warfare 2 follows the same winning and time-tested structure of earlier games in the series. In the single player campaign players are aided by AI squad members as they take on a series of missions aimed at eliminating Ultranationalist forces. Each mission is built around a particular objective, with players utilizing some level of guidance from NPC characters, including “Soap” MacTavish, and aided in navigation by the game’s heads up display (HUD). Along the way players will be able to utilize a wide variety of weaponry and and vehicles, as well as be able to customize weapons with gadgets attached to them.

Also, just as in previous games in the series, Modern Warfare 2 is heavily focused on multiplayer gameplay. The different multiplayer modes, available both in local play and online, contain plenty of customization options and revolve around different strategies ranging from the every man for himself action of “Free-for All,” the classic team-based fun of “Capture the Flag and the tactical, team-oriented action of “Search and Destroy,” just to name a few. Multiplayer modes also feature the “Perk” System that players may be familiar with from earlier in the franchise. Through this system players gain additional abilities, weapons and benefits as they gain experience in combat. This can be done by leveling up, but another important way way is through “kill streaks,” the number of enemies eliminated in succession. These are available beginning with three kills and include the ability to call for supply drops, predator missile strikes, helicopter gunships and many more. Players have the ability to customize in advance which perks will be available at each number and can even gauge their progress towards each at the touch of a button. With an eye towards not making the game too hard for new players the game also features help to players experiencing “death streaks,” multiple consecutive deaths in multiplayer matches.

 

Special Ops Co-op Mode
Along with a single player mode and multiple multiplayer modes, Modern Warfare 2 also features an unique third main play option, Special Ops Mode. Available both online and in local play, Special Ops Mode is designed to provide a distinct time-based play option, featuring special scenarios not found in other modes in the game and lots of enemies to take on. This mode can be played either alone or with a friend, again either locally or online, with local co-op play including split-screen functionality.

 

Key Game Features

  • Challenging Multiplayer ModesModern Warfare 2 will contain a wealth of multiplayer modes including: the every man for himself action of “Free-for All,” the classic team-based fun of “Capture the Flag and the tactical, team-oriented action of “Search and Destroy.”
  • Improved AI Enemies – Improved artificial intelligence now allows enemies to attack from virtually any direction as players respawn into the game adding additional challenges.
  • An All-new Call of Duty AdventureModern Warfare 2 features an all new Call of Duty storyline revolving around the continuing struggles against the Russian rebel group the Ultranationalists, who have found a new and more dangerous leader.
  • The ‘Special Ops’ Optional Co-op Mode – “Special Ops” Mode allows two players, either alone or with a friend, to engage in unique mission play and features split-screen functionality.
  • Diverse In-game Environments – Battlegrounds traversed in the game range from the lonely, snow-clad mountains of Kazakhstan, to dark tunnels in the Afghanistan and the crowded slums of Rio.
  • Nonstop ActionModern Warfare 2 contains no cutscenes, so players are always engaged in the action, no matter where they are in the game.
  • New Breach Gameplay Mechanic – Players can now blaze their own paths through the game by “Breaching” formerly impregnable obstacles like walls and doors with explosives.
  • New Gadgets, Weapons and Weapons System Modern Warfare 2 contains many new and updated weapons, new weapons attachments, as well as a variant of the multiplayer weapons customization system from Call of Duty 4, now available in the single player campaign.
  • New Perks and Increased Customization – Multiplayer modes feature new perks for leveling up, and for killstreaks and deathstreaks. Those awarded for streaks can customized in advance according to when they become available.

FTC Disclosure:  Thing-Finder.com is an affiliate of Amazon.com, and is paid a commission for any sales through this site.  There is no increase in cost to the buyer due to this affiliate sale.  The price is the same as if you bought this product directly from Amazon.

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The Razor A Kick Scooter is a Cutting Edge Ride!

Saturday, November 14th, 2009

Oh to be young again!  The Razor A Kick Scooter looks like it would be a blast to ride!  Unfortunately, I may be a tad bit over the recommended weight limit for the scooter — 143 pounds.  But heck, a guy can dream.  Can’t he?   

As you’ll see from the other reviews on this site, I like to look to Amazon and similar sites for ratings from users of the product in cases where I don’t have personal experience.  And with the Razor A Kick Scooter it was a no-brainer.  As of this writing, there were 276 users who rated the Razor A Kick Scooter.  Of those, 218 (79%) gave it a 5-star rating.  Even better, 248 (nearly 90%) gave it a 4- or 5-star rating! 

Best of all, the positive feedback was outstanding!  When I read through positive comments, I hunt for hidden complaints.  The only three I found in a quick review of the positive remarks for the Razor A Kick Scooter were a lose sticker, a mention of dirt building up in the wheels, and one of the best hidden complaints I’ve ever read — “The only thing that will ever need replacement are the wheels.”

Here is the Amazon Product Description for the Razor A Kick Scooter:

  • The original kick scooter, the Razor A is a handy little ride for kids and teens alike. Though it’ll never replace the internal combustion engine, the scooter will get your child from point A to point B much quicker than on foot alone, and requires just a few scoots of one’s shoes in the process. Plus, it’s a blast to use, as your progeny will likely attest.
  • The Razor A is built of aircraft-grade aluminum, a sturdy material that holds up to use and abuse through the years. Its T-tube and deck, meanwhile, fold up into a compact footprint, so riders can fit the scooter inside a bag or carry it at their side when riding isn’t appropriate (it weighs around 6 pounds). And thanks to the 98mm inline-style urethane wheels, ABEC 5 bearings, and patented rear fender brake, riders will always feel smooth and in control when kicking along the sidewalk. 
  • Recommended for ages 5 and older, the Razor A will support a rider up to 143 pounds. It’s also backed by a six-month warranty.

Razor Scooters actually come in multiple models and colors.  The data above is for the “A” model.  Other similar models with slight variations are the “AW”, “A2″, and “A3″.  All of these scooters can be reviewed and purchased through the links on this page.

One final comment with this, or any, scooter is the need for safety.  A full line of helmets, knee and elbow pads are also available on Amazon.  Make sure that you think about the safety of your kids as well as the happiness of them.

 

FTC Disclosure:  Thing-Finder.com is an affiliate of Amazon.com, and is paid a commission for any sales through this site.  There is no increase in cost to the buyer due to this affiliate sale.  The price is the same as if you bought this product directly from Amazon.

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MindFlex: The Mind Control Game by Mattel

Saturday, November 7th, 2009

MindFlex Game by Mattel

Every so often you come across a new game that you just know is likely to change the way people spend their free time.  MindFlex is just that sort of game. 

 




So what is MindFlex?  It is an interactive game played by using the power of your mind in order to control a small foam ball through a series of obstacles.  Of course, I’m not really suggesting that your mind moves the ball, and neither are the manufacturers.  But what they do claim is that you use your mind — specifically your concentration — to control a small fan, and that fan increases or decreases in speed as you concentrate more or relax more.

The change in fan speed raises or lowers the small foam ball, as a hand control moves the fan (and the ball) around a small table of obstacles.   By increasing the concentration at certain points, the ball will rise.  Move a basketball style hoop under it, and then relax to drop the ball through the hoop. 

All said, there are five game modes in MindFlexFreestyle, Mental Marathon, Danger Zone, Chase the Lights and Thoughtshot.  Each provides a different set o

f challenges and goals.

Here’s a review from the folks over at Amazon.com:

MindFlex–featuring a headset that reads your brain waves and a levitating foam ball–is the kind of game that must be seen to be believed. Recommended for players aged eight and older, the game begins when you strap on the headset so you can use your powers of concentration to move the ball around the game console and through a mind-bending obstacle course. A dial-in console lets you to keep the ball lifted on a cushion of air, but raising and lowering the ball must be accomplished by alternating concentrating and relaxing your mind.

Headset Measures your Brain Waves
Tired of games that depend on the roll of a die or lucky draw? With the help of advanced technology, MindFlex introduces a whole new way to play–by using the power of your mind! 

You’ll feel like a character in a science fiction movie as you strap on the headset, connect the clips to your ear lobes, and align the metal forehead sensor just above your left eyebrow. But even this strange accessory won’t prepare you for the sight of a foam ball quivering five inches above the game console!

Move the Ball with the Power of your Mind
Skeptics will be quick to point out that the console’s movable fan nozzle holds the ball aloft on a cushion of air. However, as players learn to alternately focus and relax their minds, the ball will respond by rising and falling. An instruction manual provides various concentration and relaxation techniques to try such as math problems or visualization and practice exercises.

Once you feel like you’ve mastered the art of telekinesis, you can test your mental acuity with five challenging games designed for groups of one to four players. Use the game console to select your game, set the difficulty level, and track your scores.

Design a Mind-Bending Obstacle Course
A variety of hoops, hurdles, funnels, and a teeter-totter can be positioned however you choose on the game console. Players use their minds to move the ball under, over, or through the obstacles. Several games test speed, while another challenges players to lift a ball up and through a funnel, shooting it across the game console to score points.

While MindFlex’s advanced technology is sure to intrigue, mastering the games may prove difficult for some. Because concentration techniques will vary from person to person, the game rewards patience and a willingness to experiment. Fans of mazes and brain teasers will appreciate the mental challenge, and creative types will like designing the obstacle courses.

MindFlex’s game console requires four “C” batteries (not included), and the headset requires three “AAA” batteries (not included). The four foam balls should be handled with care to keep their ability to levitate. Fortunately, the game console features an inner compartment for safe ball storage.

What’s in the Box
Game console, headset, four foam balls, and various obstacles. (Batteries not included.)

 




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I’m not going to lie to you.  This isn’t a cheap game.  And it isn’t for everyone.  It really is a game aimed at ages 8-15.  Younger children have a choking risk due to small parts.  Older kids may not fit comfortably in the headset.

One of the things I like to do before selecting a product to feature here is to see what others have to say about it.  Here is one of the best reviews for it:

Great for My Autistic Son

I pre-ordered this for my autistic son’s 14th birthday and was happy that it arrived before his big day. The biggest praise I can give to this game is that it actually SLOWED MY SON DOWN and kept him in place for more than 5 minutes!!! He was fascinated with it and it instantly had him in tune with his speed, concentration, etc. He says it’s the best gift he’s ever received, and it gave US the gift of time while he actually occupied himself with something for an extended period on his own–thrilling!! He did have a temporary dent in his forehead where the sensor lay, although we checked the headband repeatedly to make sure that it didn’t feel too tight. It would be easy for the components to get lost–we’d suggest putting balls and obstacle pieces into a zip-lock bag and returning everything to its original box each time. I think that a toy that can help special needs kids tap into more awareness of their own space and rhythms is a wonderful thing. 
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Overall, 40% of reviewers gave MindFlex a 5-star rating, and 67% gave it a 4- or 5-star rating.  That is a great recommendation in my mind!

Order Your MindFlex Today!

 

FTC Disclosure:  Thing-Finder.com is an affiliate of Amazon.com, and is paid a commission for any sales through this site.  There is no increase in cost to the buyer due to this affiliate sale.  The price is the same as if you bought this product directly from Amazon.

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Sophie the Giraffe Baby Teether — Lead-Free, Squeaky, and All-Natural!

Tuesday, November 3rd, 2009

Sophie the Giraffe Baby Teether

Sophie the Giraffe Baby Teether is one of those indispensable toys for very young (3-9 months)  children.  Anyone who has had a child in that age bracket remembers the discomfort and crying that goes into the teething process.  Sophie the Giraffe goes a long way toward soothing the needs of a teething infant. 

Sophie the Giraffe is an easy size and shape for a baby’s tiny hands.  The internal squeaking sound provides feedback to the baby, encouraging him to continue to play with the toy.  The soft natural rubber body makes it easy to hold, and the food-grade paint used on the body is safe for the baby to chew on.

Since Sophie is made of all natural rubber, it is much easier to keep clean than a washcloth or cloth-based chew toy.  The rubber is thicker in the spots that it matters, helping to ensure that the baby won’t bite off an ear, nose or other body part.

How did I decide this was a great product?  I looked at some reviews.  Most people tend to leave poor reviews.  So when I saw the following headings for the reviews on this product, I knew it was special:

“Don’t let the price deter you!”

 ”Totally lives up to the hype–We love Sophie!” 

Her *favorite* toy!!” 

Granddaughters new best friend” 

  My son loves this teether” 

Couldn’t live with out it” 

In fact, over 70% of those reviewing Sophie the Giraffe gave it a 5-star rating!  And nearly 85% gave it a 4- or 5-star rating!  That is outstanding!

From the Manufacturer

Sophie the Giraffe, full of discoveries and activities to awaken baby’s senses. Sight: The dark and contrasting spots all over Sophie the Giraffe’s body provide visual stimulation and make her easily recognizable to baby. She soon becomes a familiar and reassuring object. Hearing: Her squeaker keeps baby amused, stimulates his hearing, and helps him to understand the link between cause and effect. Taste: Sophie the Giraffe is very flexible and has lots of parts for baby to chew like ears, horns, legs. She is perfect for soothing baby’s sore gums when teething and is completely safe. Made of 100% natural rubber and food paint. Touch: Sophie the Giraffe is perfect for baby’s small hands. She is very light and her long legs and neck are easy for baby to grip. She is very soft to touch, just like baby’s mommy, stimulating soothing physiological and emotional responses. Smell: The singular scent of natural rubber makes Sophie the Giraffe very special and easy for your child to identify amid all his other toys. Phthalates and BPA free.

Review on Amazon

My 5 month old daughter LOVES her Sophie the Giraffe toy! This toy is absolutely wonderful in every way. Sophie is made of soft rubber and makes a pleasant-sounding squeak whenever any part of her body is squeezed, so even a young baby can elicit a reaction from the toy with minimal effort.

I don’t know what it is about Sophie, but whenever my daughter plays with her, she gets very vocal and talkative.

I saw another review which referred to this toy as “a glorified dog toy”. That reviewer is mistaken, and simply doesn’t realize the value of this toy.

- Sophie’s body, while soft, has several areas of thicker rubber (the nubs on her head, her ears, and her feet) which are perfect for teething babies to gnaw on for relief.
- Sophie’s contrasting colors (spots) are visually stimulating to a baby.
- She is easy to grip given her long, thin neck.
- This toy is made of 100% natural rubber and uses food-grade paint (SAFE!).
- This is a quality baby toy which will last for many years.

I would much rather pay $20 for a safe, engaging toy for my baby, than pay $5 for some piece of junk with lead paint.

 

FTC Disclosure:  Thing-Finder.com is an affiliate of Amazon.com, and is paid a commission for any sales through this site.  There is no increase in cost to the buyer due to this affiliate sale.  The price is the same as if you bought this product directly from Amazon.

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