Get Farming Simulator '15

CUSTOMER REVIEW



Very nice farming simulator. Visually, 15 is better than Farming Simulator 2013, but the PDA in 2013 is better. In 2013 you can flip through the PDA screens while walking or driving, or leave it on something that you want to monitor (such as the price of a particular item), but in 15 it stops the game and always focuses on the same tab. Hopefully, someone will be able to create a mod for a better PDA... I did need to update my graphics driver to the latest version to fix a Giants Engine 6.02 error.

Get PlayStation Portable 3000 Core Pack System - Piano Black

CUSTOMER REVIEW



The all new slimmer PSP 3000 comes in with a couple of new upgrades over the 2000 model. Primarily for the Skype functionality, a microphone is onboard along with a reduced glare 4.3" screen. Its a given that fingerprints will still be a continued issue for the PSP line. Thankfully, the age old problem of ghosting has yet to appear on my new PSP 3000.



One of the sweeter features now is an upgraded (AV) video output support. Owners can now operate their systems with regular (NON HD) TV. I suggest buyers pick up a good composite or component cable. With the usual collection of great games, improved graphics is a major plus.



As with all previous models, control buttons layout are very much like the classic Play Station. One area of concern is that load times for the UMD (Universal Media Disc) seemed to drag a bit. Its a given that purchasing the kit which includes the proprietary MS Duo Card is more cost effective in the end. Its obvious that Sony missed the boat when it went with its own proprietary format instead of the more widely used and less costly SD standard.



Even though Wi-fi capable, the unit is outfitted with possibly the slowest version (802.11b) on the planet. It powers up via a 5 volt ac adapter or USB. Video playback is great as long as you copy your favorites on the memory stick Duo Card. Going any other way is definitely a slow dragged out process. When it comes to television, Sony's own version of Slingbox allows for free tv viewing.



This PSP won't get confused with your IPOD anytime soon but music play is generally good. Another added feature is that it will even support music art. If one is going to display photos on the PSP I strongly suggest compressing your files. Photo display can be via slide show or singles.



Of note, the PSP is also a web browser. However, its hit and miss for flash. Streaming internet radio via Shoutcast is a freebie. PSP offers a regular schedule of firmware updates. As with the earlier editions, via a network or the internet the unit can pick up audio, video and photo files that are stored on a PS3. The PSP 3000 comes with the standard 1200 mAh rechargeable battery. Battery life runs almost a full 5 hours whether one is gaming or watching a movie.



Necessary accessories such as the Memory Stick Duo card, protective screen cover, headphones and a carrying case are not included. Not all PSP headphones are compatible with the PSP 3000. When purchasing headphones read the specs carefully.



Even without the included accessories, the PSP 3000 still brings it on. I would definitely recommend this model as a gift or as a personal purchase. After all, it is Play Station.

Get Logitech Extreme 3D Pro Joystick (Silver/Black)

CUSTOMER REVIEW



The Logitech Extreme 3D Pro Joystick is a good all-around stick. For those wanting to use, say, Flight Simulator for educational purposes, the Extreme 3D is a good choice.



In fact, this type of stick is much more realistic than models with "Force Feedback": the stick movement on a genuine modern helicopter in flight feels smooth and fluid, like power steering on your car. Force Feedback may be fun, but I don't think it's very realistic for many of the scenarios it's currently used in.



Specifically, here's what I rated it by:

* Quality of components and assembly: The action of the stick is smooth. No flimsy play in the controls. The hat switch and trigger pull have a positive feel with close tolerances.

* Comfortable handgrip: like the overall product, the design and machining of the grip is off high-quality, without any annoying seems or sharp ridges.

* Smooth throttle control: this is a small detail, but compared with some of the other models out there, it's notable.

* Stable base that allows you to either rest it firmly on a table or in your lap.

* Subtle movements are reflected in the game.

* Overall appearance - it looks as good as it performs.



Things to NOTE:

* This is definitely a right-handed joystick.

* It plugs into a USB port

* I used it with Microsoft Flight Sim 2002 running on an XP Pro system: Installing the software that came with the joystick was effortless and when I opened Flight Sim, all of the buttons were already mapped to the appropriate functions.

The New Toshiba SD-V296 Tunerless DVD VCR Combo Player

Product Description

Fitting more entertainment value into less shelf space just got easier. With a DVD/VCR combo player, you get the connectivity and features without the clutter. One Touch Recording for the VCR provides a simple and convenient way to make a recording. Simply connect your DVD/VCR to your cable or satellite box and then to your monitor/TV and you are set to record a tape with the push of one button! General Information-Manufacturer-Toshiba:General Information-Manufacturer Part Number-SD-V296:General Information-Manufacturer Website Address-Toshiba:General Information-Brand Name-Toshiba:General Information-Product Model-SD-V296:General Information-Product Name-SD-V296 DVD Player/VCR Combo:General Information-Product Type-DVD Player/VCR:Miscellaneous-Package Contents-SD-V296 DVD Player/VCR Combo Remote Control User's Manual:Warranty-Standard Warranty-90 Day Limited:Technical Information-Number of Discs-1:Technical Information-Media Formats-VHS, DVD-RW, CD-RW:VCR-Number of Heads-4:Video-Video Signal Format-NTSC:Video-Video Formats-DVD Video, Video CD:Video-Picture Control-Zoom:Video-Scanning Modes-Progressive Scan:Video-Digital to Analog Video Converter-14-bit - 108 MHz:Audio-Sound System-Dolby Digital, DTS:Audio-Audio Formats-MP3:Audio-Digital to Analog Audio Converter-24-bit - 192 kHz:Image-Image Formats-JPEG:Interfaces/Ports-Component Video-Yes:Interfaces/Ports-Composite Video-Yes:Interfaces/Ports-Digital Audio Coaxial Out-Yes:Controls/Indicators-Language Supported-English, French, Spanish:Controls/Indicators-Remote Control-Yes:Power Description-Input Voltage-110 V AC:Physical Characteristics-Color-Black:Physical Characteristics-Height-3.7":Physical Characteristics-Width-17.1":Physical Characteristics-Depth-9.2":Physical Characteristics-Weight (Approximate)-5.95 lb.:






CUSTOMER REVIEW



My review is a lot different from most of the people here.



I saw the reviews others wrote, which were very negative, and one or two that felt it was a good solid basic machine.



I have used toshiba in my profession and it is generally a solid, quality brand. Not schnazzy and spiffy, but solid. A few quirks, but it gets the job done.



What I have done/intend to do with this machine:



1--Replace my old vcr which my son destroyed

2--Play old VHS tapes that have been given to us by friends/family, mainly children's videos

3--Play DVD's (for the children and for us--playing them on my laptop it's too quiet).



On these three points, honestly, I couldn't have asked for a better deal. the price was under $50 when I purchased it last week, and it's brand spanking new, not a refurb, and everything works good. The sound quality for the VHS side is not extra quiet for my tv. In fact, I had to turn it down some. DVD worked great too.



What I have NOT tried to do/don't intend to do:



1--record old vhs's to DVD

2--Hook this puppy into a state of the art audio/visual home theater

3--set the timer for recording programs automatically.



In these more advanced digital age things, probably this is not the best tool. All I wanted was something that could play both vhs and dvd's mainly to entertain our kids and sometimes for me and my wife. Our TV is not enthroned in honor in our house, it is just a tool. Our life doesn't focus around TV programming, so all we really needed was something to play VHS and DVD when we need or want.



Now it's possible if you have a nice nice system, you've already spent hundreds of $$$ on HD stuff, then maybe you need something that is more compatible. Check carefully on brands and make sure they have the exact connections you need, or you can end up spending a lot of money.



Also, if you have a TV that only goes through Co-ax, you'll need a special box to convert the RCA to Co-ax, and the manual says you might find reduced quality if you do.



So if you just need a basic solid piece of equipment to play your vids, I think you can't beat this one. The price has raised since I bought it, but it's still the most affordable one as of today, and I'm glad I got one for well under $100.

Get PlayStation Gold Wireless Stereo Headset - Jet Black

CUSTOMER REVIEW



Bought for my boyfriend. The house is no longer filled with gunshots and police sirens. No more military comands followed by loud bangs. No longer do I wake up at 2am from the sound of a hooker's final scream or a tractor trailer truck exploding. There are no more voices of people who are simultaneously in my living room and South Carolina.



A+ product. Highly recommended!

The New Toshiba DVR620 DVD/VHS Recorder (Black)

CUSTOMER REVIEW



I bought this DVD recorder to copy many old family home movies on videocassettes to DVDs. Our home movies date back to 1988. After some advice from customer service at Toshiba, I have been able to use the recorder to dub my old home movies successfully to DVDs.



Like several other users, I found that when I followed the instructions for dubbing to DVDs, the recorder showed a "Barred" icon, a slashed red circle. After several attempts with different brands of DVD disks, I called Toshiba. I got some very helpful advice from the first customer service agent at Toshiba, but I was still unable to resolve the problem. I called back and talked to another agent, who was able to help me resolve the recording issues. Both customer service agents at Toshiba were very knowledgeable and did an excellent job of explaining their advice. I was very satisfied with Toshiba customer service. I will summarize the advice below so that other people who have difficulties with the recorder can try these steps to resolve their problems.



1. Because old videotapes may not track well when they have been unused for several years, fast forward to the end of the tape and rewind the tape before attempting to copy it. The recorder may refuse to copy a tape if it does not track well.



2. Eject the videotape. Apparently Toshiba DVRs (both the 610 and 620) can balk if the videotape is inserted before the DVD.



3. Push the DVD button and insert the blank DVD.



4. Press Record Mode (not Record) button and set the speed (I use SP).



5. Press the Setup button and select Recording. Select Dubbing Mode. Select VCR > DVD.



6. Press the VCR button and insert the videotape. Press Play and then Pause (not Stop) at the point slightly before you wish to start copying.



7. Press the Dubbing button. Push Stop when you want to stop dubbing. You can then insert another videotape to dub onto the same DVD, until it is full.



8. You can add titles on the DVD disk with the Top Menu button by selecting the part you wish to title and clicking on Edit and Edit Title.



9. After adding titles, you should finalize the DVD by pressing the Setup button, selecting DVD Menu and then Finalize (this may take a few minutes). Then you should be able to play the disk on another machine. I have been able to play finalized disks on my Sony DVD player.



I hope this is helpful for others having some trouble with these machines. I am very happy to be able to make digital copies of my old home movies.

Get Diablo III: Reaper of Souls

CUSTOMER REVIEW



I played through the original Diablo 3 game and just finished the expansion. The original game was riddled with problems and many people were angry about it. Over the last year or so, Blizzard did a great job LISTENING to the people that play Diablo 3 and the game has completely turned around since then!



Things fixed in original Diablo 3 game through patches (you paid for these when you bought the ORIGINAL game, not the expansion):

-No more auction house!

-Items drop for your character (stats you need)

-Improved legendary drop

-Legendary drops have fun attributes

-Increased customization ability (no more being stuck to one build for your class)

-Reduced reliance on magic find to get legendary drops



These changes were all great and the gameplay is vastly improved with them.



However, that is all with the original game.



For the expansion, you get:

-1 new playable class (crusader)

-1 new act for the campaign (act 5) including 3 new boss fights that is roughly 2-3 hours depending on difficulty and how thorough you are

-Adventure mode

-New skills for your character (some of which are very fun)

-New loot



So when you separate the changes for the old game versus the new stuff from the expansion, it looks a little different. In terms of amount of content, the expansion seems more like a small DLC package than an actual expansion.



Story: 2/5

It's good but it is "few and far between." You get fed a tiny piece of story now and then, but most of the time you spend grinding on the gigantic maps trying to get to the next area. What little story there was, it was interesting. But there was not nearly enough to denote a 40 dollar price tag. In short, 3 new boss fights and just a bunch of grinding in between. They threw in some mini side quests but I don't think they add much to the game. They even reused some of the old models for monsters from the original game. The campaign just felt rushed in terms of story and more created for long term grinding playability. Would not recommend for the story.



Gameplay: 4/5

It's much better, but once again, it was better in the original game too after all the updates! The new act is full of big levels and lots of monsters, so if you love running around, killing things, and finding loot, it's perfect. It can be too big and a bit monotonous at times though for the average gamer.



Adventure mode is just trying to give you a carrot on a stick to replay old quests and give you a goal while you grind. It is nothing special. You just might get a prize for doing the same thing you were going to do anyways.



TL;DR - A 20 dollar game with a 40 dollar price tag. The new content is minimal, considering you get 1/4 of the story content of the original game for 2/3 the price of it. This expansion is definitely set up for the hardcore fans who just like to run around killing things aimlessly and hoping for loot. If you are playing it for any other reason than that (STORY), you can skip this title until it's cheaper.

Buy Voice remote for Amazon Fire TV and Fire TV Stick

CUSTOMER REVIEW



This remote is really easy to use. It has all the buttons you need without having so many buttons that you’re always searching for the buttons that actually matter.



Here is why this remote is exceptional:



Voice Search – Just hold down the microphone button and say what you want to watch. The search results will appear within just a few seconds. Granted the voice recognition isn’t perfect…It’s 2014, not 2054 after all…but the voice recognition works far better (and faster) than trying to type the name of the show you want to watch.



Bluetooth – When you mount your Fire TV, you won’t have to worry about pointing the remote sensor towards the ceiling to get good remote reception. Bluetooth goes right through just about anything.

Buy HDMI Cable Category 2, Full 1080P Capable (6 Feet)

CUSTOMER REVIEW



When I bought my LCD TV, I paid a fortune for an HDMI cable at the retail store. Stupid me, I should have known better about the outrageous markups many retail stores put on video accessories. Recently, I bought several of these cables at a fraction of the price I paid for that first one, and I used them to connect a Blu-ray player, an Xbox360, and an audio/video receiver. Even with the high shipping cost, these cables are much cheaper than I found elsewhere. And they work just fine.



Remember, HDMI cables transfer digital info -- they pass bits, not an analog signal -- so, basically, they either work or they don't work. You'll either see the complete picture and hear the audio, or you won't (if the cable is defective). These are not like analog cables where cheaper, poor-quality cables can result in a poorer picture or sound. So if you get any HDMI cable that works, you won't get any better quality by paying for more expensive HDMI cables. Reviewers that say they see a poorer picture with cheaper HDMI cables are fooling themselves and don't understand digital vs. analog.

Get Five Nights at Freddy's DEMO [Download]

CUSTOMER REVIEW



My grandkids and I downloaded this to try it out. It's different, creepy, and will startle you when you least expect it. Great one to try out.

Get Etekcity® Scroll X1 (M555) 2400 DPI Wired USB Optical Gaming Mouse with 7 Programmable Buttons,Omron Micro Switches

CUSTOMER REVIEW



I was skeptical of this mouse because of the low price. I took a chance on it and I am extremely pleased. This isn't just a good mouse for the price, but a good mouse period. I like for the mouse to be a little bigger - I find that small mice (i.e. portable laptop style) make my fingers and hand ache after long periods of use. This mouse is a good size and I feel like I'm simply resting my hand on top of it. The ergonomic design is a positive as well. I have never used an ergonomic mouse, always opting for the standard shape. It didn't take long to get used to and I feel like I have better control over the pointer. The location of the wheel and side buttons are very good, but the additional 3rd and 4th buttons below the wheel are a little tricky to press. Not really an issue for me, but some gamers may want to consider this. Lastly, set up was easy - simple plug and play. It comes with some software that allows you to edit what the buttons do, but I have no real need for it. 5/5 stars. Highly recommended!

Get Microsoft Xbox 360 Controller for Windows

CUSTOMER REVIEW



I bought this controller because I needed something that was truely plug and play. It works flawlessly on my Windows 7 Professional 64 bit laptop. I chose the "For Windows" version of the XBOX 360 controller simply because I didn't want to take a chance with other controllers not being recognized or working incorrectly. I don't have an XBOX 360 and wanted this specifically for my Windows computer. It is a perfect match! This controller is recognized immediately by Windows which installs the drivers automatically. If you want you can also go to the Microsoft website and download the latest software/drivers too.



The controller itself works as described with no problems whatsoever. I am using this controller along with another XBOX 360 controller to play multiplayer games on a Nintendo 64 emulator (Project 64) on my PC. Assigning the buttons is easy, but the rumble does not work without installing a plugin (not the controllers fault, just letting you know). I don't mind not having rumble at the moment as it does not affect game play and will install the necessary rumble plugin some day. This controller also works with many other PC games.



I highly recommend a Microsoft controller over a third-party controller! The quality is worth the money. I also recommend going with this USB wired controller over a wireless version so you don't have to bother with batteries or charging. Its simply plug and play and I can't really ask for more than that. Great controller for Windows computers, buy this one!

Get AC Adapter Power Wall Home Charger for PSP 1000 2000 3000

Product Description

Home AC Power Adaptor. Compatible with PSP 1000 PSP 2000 PSP 3000. Easy to use at home in a hotel on a trip. The innovative travel charger automatically adjusts to all voltages and frequencies. Gives you plenty of reach to access a nearby wall outlet. Input:100V-240V 0.2A 50-60Hz. Output:5V 1500mA.CONTENT1 x AC Adaptor for PSP 1000 2000 3000. 1 x Power cord for PSP 1000 2000 3000.






CUSTOMER REVIEW



My last charger broke, this one saved the day. I bought this about... maybe 6-7 months ago, and it still works as good as the stock PSP charger.

The New Funai ZV427FX4 Combination VCR and DVD Recorder

CUSTOMER REVIEW



I had an old Panasonic DVD/VCR recorder and it finally died. I thought about taking the 100 VHS tapes I have to a professional place to get it done, but at $25 a pop ($2500!!), this machine looked like a better deal. It is very, very easy to 'install.' Unlike my last one, I didn't have to deal with red/yellow/green/blue/white jacks, trying to figure out what goes where. They do have that option, but one HDMI cable did the trick instead.



Directions are simple and clearly printed. I only had to look at a few pages because I'm only interested in the dubbing part of it. I don't care about any other features. However, we do watch DVDs on it as well, and we were amazed at the quality. Our old Panasonic had really gotten bad and we didn't even realize it. This new one has a great picture.



You can't watch and tape TV through it (no tuner), but we have a DVR with our satellite dish, so we didn't need that.



It does the job easily. I thought about getting a Toshiba, but several reviews seem to indicate that it was a bit more difficult to dub. This machine is simple, IF you follow the simple, illustrated directions.



I had never heard of Funai, but for the price I was willing to give it a try. Since I have no clue how long it will last I bought the extended warranty (cheap). If it gets all my videos done, it will be more than worth the price.



IMPORTANT!!! You need to have DVD- (MINUS) not PLUS. This unit will not work with PLUS (DVD+). DVD- are easy to find. After looking at reviews, it seems that not all recordable DVDs are created equal. I ended up ordering "100 Taiyo Yuden/JVC 8X DVD-R 4.7GB Silver Thermal Lacquer DVD-R." These appear to be the best quality and last the longest. Amazon has the best price for them.



EDIT on April 18, 2014: It's still going strong. The dubbing is even easier than I thought. I put the VHS in one side, the DVD in the other and just press the "dub" button on the remote. I don't have to set anything up or do anything else to start. After it's finished, you do have to "finalize" it, but that's not hard at all. Simple directions are included.

Buy DualShock 4 Wireless Controller for PlayStation 4 - Jet Black

CUSTOMER REVIEW



As a long time Microsoft supporter and someone who has never really liked the PS3, I felt it necessary to post this.



I picked up the new DS4 controller last night for the upcoming PS4, and I have to say I am blown away at how much better they made this controller.



Everything about this controller feels better than the old DS3 and prior units. The joysticks are farther apart and actually have resistance for more precise movements.



The grips are elongated and this makes the controller fit much better in my bigger hands.



It is not heavy in the hand, so while using it I forget I am holding it. The movements feel more like second nature rather than thinking about which button to press.



I knew awhile back I was not getting the Xbox One and I had hitched my wagon to the PS4 train. This just makes that decision all the more grand.



This DS4 is the best controller I have used on any system to date. Will it beat the new Xbox One? Not sure, but I would have to say maybe. Even if it didn't I would say it won't matter, Microsoft lost my money this time around.

Get Sid Meier's Civilization V: The Complete Edition [Online Game Code]

CUSTOMER REVIEW



Day #30.



I think I might have lost my family and children.



I just cannot stop.

Get Sid Meier's Civilization: Beyond Earth [Online Game Code]

CUSTOMER REVIEW



Can't play the game until the 24th, but the key retrieval was quick and activated and preloaded on Steam with no issues.