November 19, 2012

As someone who uses the ESPN App to peruse the high caliber programming that ESPN has to offer, like re-airings of CFL games or the Scripps National Spelling Bee prelims, it’s nice to know that Major Nelson has announced the big update for the app. The brand-new ESPN App is no longer an over-glorified version of ESPN 3 (where sports are often ignored) and is an absolute collaboration of all things that make up ESPN thanks to the culmination of WatchESPN. Now this app will allow every ESPN channel and its programming available to Xbox Live Gold users, including all their respected broadcasts of NBA, MLB, and Monday Night Football games.

On the other side of the of the app inclusion is the announcement of Karaoke from Stingray Music, which looks to provide Xbox 360 users with a more reasonable karaoke experience that Lips may have abandoned in recent memory. Since Stingray Music has had success with the Karaoke Channel on televisions, computers and even on smartphones, video game consoles seemed like the next logical step. Obtaining music in this is hardly an issue; Instead of downloading songs to sing-along to, the app will stream a random collection of free songs that anyone can enjoy. However, to use the full collection of songs, Microsoft Points are needed and even then it’s only to rent from a few hours to an entire day. Of course a microphone is needed, as you are going to need something to sing into, be it a wired or wireless microphone, or just even a headset.

Both of these will not only utilize Kinect, but are also prepared for Smartglass integration to enhance the app’s usage. The ESPN App is currently available with Karaoke ready for December, and will hopefully provide those that aren’t playing Halo 4 or Black Ops 2 with something more sociable when company is over.

Very few instances in American history have a greater importance or significance than the Revolutionary War. It marks a time when the colonists stood up to their motherland and fought for freedom and independence. We all know the story… or do we? What if there was a more sinister plot that the history books left out? What if the Templars & Assassins secretly altered history for what they believed was the true vision of America? I can’t think of a better point in history to bring one of the most intriguing fictional storylines in gaming today.

Without ruining too much of the opening sequences, you start out as Haytham Kenway which isn’t the actual main protagonist of Assassin’s Creed III. It’s a change of pace for the series and will probably surprise most when the plot comes to fruition. Fans of Desmond will be pleased to find out that he is also still controllable during certain stages of the game. As for how Conner, the Assassin, ties into the plot of things–well the people at Ubisoft did a fantastic job of giving you a reason for vengeance as you will see through the early game progression. The plot is actually very well written. It’s filled with twists and turns and plays out nicely if you stick around to see the end.

Improved ESPN & New Karaoke App for Xbox Live Announced

Assassin’s Creed III | Review