Musings from the Void - Weekly Update 29/01/2010

Apple - Apple have finally unveiled the iPad - the latest gadget that 'no one ever knew they needed but soon all will want'. The device looks almost identical to the iPhone (apart from being much larger) and will bridge the gap between mobile devices and laptops. Features include Wi-Fi/3G, ability to download magazines and books, downloadable games and inter-changeable iPhone apps. The 16GB version will set you back a decent $500 and 3G access will require a monthly subscription.

Mass Effect 2 - Reviews for the space saga have been rolling-in fast and it looks like the benchmark for 2010 has been set very high indeed. Right now the game sits with an average 96% score on Metacritic, receiving a large number of 'perfect' 100% scores. Particular praise has been given to the games ability to link your actions in Mass Effect 1 to the sequel, greatly affecting the character interactions and story lines.

The Sims - The first content only expansion for The Sims 3 will hit stores February. The 'High-End Loft Stuff' pack will give users a roomy new loft and tonnes of modern electrical equipment including flat screen TVs, game consoles etc.

Grand Theft Auto IV - For PlayStation 3 and PC owners looking to get their hands on the previously exclusive Xbox 360 'Episodes from Liberty City' the wait is almost over. Despite months of speculation and false hopes Rockstar have finally confirmed the 2 expansions will be available on March 30th. Both games have received much praise from Xbox 360 owners and provide substantial new material over the original GTA IV.



Avatar - Despite admitting Cameron had no plans for a sequel to the Box Office busting Avatar prior to it's release, it appears a sequel is already in pre-production according to SlashFilm. Film crew have been hired for a 3-5 year contract, with 20th Century Fox understandably keen for a quick follow-up movie.

Naughty Bear - A new trailer for the family friendly (honest) cuddly adventure has hit the web, check it out below:



The more I see of this game, the more I want it!

Lost Planet 2 - An unusual trailer hit Xbox Live earlier this week for Lost Planet 2 in which Marcus and Dom from Gears of War show up to kick some Akrid ass. How the characters will fit into the game remains to be seen. Will they just be a skin or something more substantial?

and finally.....

Miramax - Disney have finally laid to rest Miramax - the film division behind Reservoir Dogs, The English Patient and The Crying Game. Despite buying-out Miramax for $70 million in 1993, slow budget cuts and internal dispute between the companies founders has resulted in it being closed down. An uncertain outcome still remains for those films currently under development.