I have to admit I wasted too much time on my Playstation, but let me tell you why. Star Wars: Masters of Teras Kasi. I love fighting games, and this one utilizes my favourite characters form the Star Wars universe: Luke Skywalker, Han Solo, Boba Fett and five more. The object is the same as it always is, to get in a ring and defeat your opponent. The story goes the Imperials are utilizing a master of Teras Kasi, an ancient martial art, to defeat the rebels. Simple but effective. The characters and backgrounds are very detailed and look great. Gameplay is fast and furious, with the unique option of fighting with or without a weapon: Luke can use his fists or trusty lightsaber. This is a nice blend of genres that are currently available, but I found that it was always preferable to use the weapon. A well rounded fighting title, and a definite buy if you're a Star Wars fan. Otherwise, I'd rent it first just to be sure.
Two products from Microsoft have captured my attention. The first is the Encarta 98 Reference Suite. This package bundles Encarta 98 Deluxe, Encarta Virtual Globe and Bookshelf 98. Needless to say this is the only reference package you're going to need. Here's a rundown on content from Microsoft: 54,000 articles, 20,000 photos and illustrations, 250 video clips, 74,000 sound clips and pronunciations, 25,000 web links, and so on. The sheer amount of data is staggering. A caveat is that this is basically a bundle; the three titles are in one box, but each operates as a separate program. Aside from that, Encarta 98 Reference Suite is an outstanding value. If you have a DVD drive, look for this package on one DVD disk. I assume they'll integrate the titles better, but we'll have to wait and see.
The second item is the Microsoft Intellimouse Trackball. I've previously discussed the Microsoft Intellimouse, with the wheel that lets you scroll through pages and act as a programmable third button. This model varies in that it's a trackball: the mouse sits stationary, and a large ball on the top is used to maneuver the pointer. It definitely takes some getting used to, moving the ball with your forefinger instead of sliding the mouse around the pad. After a few days it felt natural, and I was able to quickly move through web sites, as well as battlefields in Age of Empires. The software lets you program the buttons any way you want, and includes lots of extras, like an odometer to keep track how far your moved the pointer or a screen wrap that lets you go off the desktop on the right and reappear on the left. If want to try something new, or need to give your wrist a rest, pick up the Microsoft Intellimouse Trackball. There's a USB version in the works to go with the new Windows 98, so look for them both next week.
by Scott VanderPloeg
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