The System

"In China's hottest online game right now, players encounter a "system" that executes a seductive control. Though unseen, this "system" is omnipresent. It a virtual yet real monopolist. "Not a leaf moves in this kingdom if I don't know about it." The voice of Pinochet, former dictator of Chile, echoes softly though this virtual world."

Danwei brings us a fascinating article on a Chinese MMORPG called ZT Online that has made its creator a billionaire. With all the talk of "casual gaming" and "online transactions" in Western gaming these days, this is a case study of that concept taken to extremes.

While the author is correct that Western audiences prefer an egalitarian approach, I think there has always been a desire to excel and have personal gain come before anything else. It has been a defining balance of our species - why should online gaming be any different?

Thanks to Joel Martinsen for the excellent translation of the original article by Cao Yunwu.

Let the GTA4 Stealing Begin!

Yep, we all knew this was just a matter of time... now we've got idiots trying to steal GTA4 (pepper-spraying clerks in the process), being chased by helicopters, and getting arrested. Meanwhile, the media is carrying the story in its lead segment. This video is hilarious, because there are just too many great quotes.

— Via 1UP

i.Beat blaxx

So does this MP3 player have an awkward name or what? I can see the advertisements now, the mp3 player for KKK members!