Wordless Wednesday : All the Kings' men and two Queens.

Chess Club - bringing back the good old days when I went with my Dad who ran a local chess club for kids.

I just beat him with help !

   

    An InLinkz Link-up

   

♥

{Giveaway} Sony Playstation 3 ~ Sorcery Prize bundle (win One of Two)

Are you ready ?

... to embrace the world of magic and wizardry as PlayStation® brings to life  Sorcery™, the newest addition to the PlayStation®Move motion controller software line-up.

The game appeals to those who like the magic and fantasy genre overlapping a little with real science.



As seen in this video hosted by Steven Mould, a BBC children’s TV presenter and scientist that briefly explains the way in which science was integrated with the game. This video is based on ‘The Ice Spell’



As the young apprentice, Finn, get ready to be transported into a world of magic and wonder Sorcery, the all new action-adventure fantasy game available only on the PlayStation 3 (PS3).

Fledgling apprentice Finn , who must use his newly acquired magic skills, travels deep into the heart of the Faerie Kingdom. Along the way, Finn must master the various types of magic - arcane, earth, ice, fire, wind, and lightning - in order to stay alive, and to become truly deserving of bearing the title sorcerer.

The Nightmare Queen has broken the ancient pact with mankind and threatens to cover the land in eternal night. As a young sorcerer’s apprentice, it is up to the player to master the arcane arts and fight back the foul creatures of this magical realm. Sorcery puts the power in the players’ hands using the PlayStation Move motion controller and letting them conjure and command powerful magic as they brave the dark world of the Faerie Kingdoms.

Players undertake quests throughout Faerie Kingdom, rescue kidnapped children, recover ancient knowledge from the City of the Drowned and aid the local townsfolk. There is even a magical cat Erline to help Finn.

Players will encounter a multitude of enemies on the journey , solve ingenious puzzles, learn powerful spells, and craft strange potions with the in-game alchemy system. With over eight spells that can be used in various combinations and countless items to discover and collect, Sorcery immerses players in a unique fantasy adventure like never before.

 KEY FEATURES

A REAL MAGIC WAND – Use the PlayStation Move motion controller as your magic wand.Cast extraordinary magic spells, brew enchanted elixirs, solve ingenious puzzles, and defeat the forces of darkness!

The PlayStation Move motion controller mirrors your actual movements in-game.

 UNIQUE COMBO SYSTEM – 

The gesture-based casting system lets you chain together basic spells into powerful combos. Freeze and shatter your enemies, electrocute them with lightning called down from the heavens, or incinerate them in a lethal firestorm! So you can switch spells with a specific gesture, no need for buttons or menus.

DEVELOP YOUR CHARACTER – 

Collect magic items, learn new spells, and concoct upgrade potions, to turn your humble apprentice into an unstoppable magic force! Sorcery has a deep alchemy system containing over 50 potions to discover . An unending search for ingredients & powerful recipes.

A LUSH AND VARIED WORLD – 

Explore five unique realms, each with their own enemies and challenges. Descend into the kingdom of the dead to battle the Banshee and the Restless Dead warriors, venture into the endless stair where vicious bogies are wreaking havoc, brave the faerie forest, raid the Slumbering Palace to free Lord Fey, the Faerie King, and much more! Immerse your apprentice in an ancient mystical world with unique realms to explore based on Irish mythology.

The good news is I have two of these ultimate Sorcery packs valued at up to $550 RRP* to giveaway. It was just released yesterday 24th May.

Each bundled pack includes :
- 1 x PlayStation 3 console
- 1 x Sorcery game
- 1 x PlayStation Move starter pack (includes PlayStation Move motion controller and PlayStation Eye camera)
- 1 x PlayStation Navigation motion controller


*Please note prize value may be subject to change

The winners will be chosen for humour , creative and original content -  

What magical ability would you desire or what spell or potion you would conjure if you were a sorcerer’s apprentice ? 

They can be silly , practical or fantasy or whatever  ??

Time travel ?  Ability to turn on and off rain ? Mute potion for my your children




Please complete the entry form ONCE and leave your comments in comment box below .



Closes 11th June 11.59pm AEST.
Optional entries if you
Like this post (see below)
Like My Little Drummer Boys
Tweet the giveaway tagging @mylittledrummer
Share on FB tagging My Little Drummer Boys

I'm feeling generous so you can enter once a day if you like as long as it's a new answer - spell,  magical ability, rhyme or potion etc...


Disclaimer:  I already own a Playstation 3 (thanks to a previous giveaway) .  I received the Sorcery game, PlayStation Move starter pack (includes PlayStation Move motion controller and PlayStation Eye camera) and PlayStation Navigation motion controller to try the game myself. No financial payment was received.

Today is my 5th birthday blogoversary  - so as a present to my readers - I had to start this awesome giveaway today. I'll have to properly test out the game with my nephews and teenage son. The target age is 8 - 13 yr olds but in my opnion it will have a wider appeal - even I'm really keen to play ... just like Harry Potter series being the Childrens' books that I read before my teenager. I was also the Queen of Pokemon battles on his Gameboy.

♥

Skylanders Spyro's Adventure { Giveaway & review }

A few months ago my boys & I were invited to a truly innovative experience – Skylanders Spyro's Adventure. When I got the first email I was really unsure about it.

Having had experience with a few different gaming systems, our now 18yr has played , I knew within minutes of seeing it for real- it was a winner. Skylanders Spyro's Adventure’s story line was penned and crafted by the writers of Toy Story... Joel Cohen and Alec Sokolow, with very cool technology.

A game that meshes the toy and videogame worlds ! Bingo !



It’s also no surprise the inspiration for the game came from some of the developers' observations of their own children. It is recommended for children 6yrs and over ; Sam & Joel can already manage some independent game play and know how to read the visual clues and follow verbal prompts. 

 "For generations, the Skylanders have used their magical powers and weapons to protect Skylands. But now, an evil tyrant has frozen them into toys and banished them to Earth. Only you can put them on the Portal of Power and bring them back to life in their world to save Skylands forever."

This is Spyro the Dragon in a way he hasn't been seen before – in a hand-sized action figure along with 31 other Skylander action figures in all (Each one with a unique powers). Each Skylander falls under one of eight elemental groups: fire, water, life, earth, tech, air, undead, and magic. I love the names Chop , Chop - Trigger Happy with his 2 six shooter that shoot gold coins.

The game starts by placing the Skylander character of your choice on the glowing "portal of Power" the gateway to your Skylander adventure.The figures are teleported ( Yes, with a radical buzz of streaming light) into the game and come to life. The 'portal of power' syncs wirelessly to the game through a USB adaptor plugged into your console or PC. (Beware the Portal is battery operated but it does include 3 Duracell – stock up for Christmas or get rechargeable ones and watch you don't lose the USB adapter)

Skylanders are far from ordinary toys - they have 'brains' that as you progress through the game remember shared experiences and leveled-up abilities (but only on your own console). There are also different game slots to save different family member's games.

Don’t worry , even if you are not in possession of all character types (YET) you can still beat complete the game. Awesome hats provide attribute bonuses and characters wear them in-game, adding some interesting customisation . Finding all the hats is an addictive engaging bonus – if you have the right Skylander figure to get access to them.

The down side is the pester power your kids will be leveling up AT YOU . Even as I played, past a bonus area that could only be unlocked by a certain Skylander element, I could feel I needed that Skylander – now !

Another thing I loved is that is has visual and verbal clues for kids in-play to tell them the best Skylander (element) for each area and what button to press. It still allows for players to develop their own strategies and chose own game tactics.

What does the STARTER PACK come with  ?
- The starter pack comes with everything you need to start your own adventure including:

• Skylanders Spyro’s Adventure software

• Portal of Power

• 3 Skylanders Figures

• 3 Trading Cards

• 1 Sticker Sheet for all three characters

• 3 Skylanders Spyro’s Universe Codes

• Collector Poster (to put your stickers on)

You can, I am told, play the entire game with just the Starter pack. Skylanders is also playable on the web.

The Activision website has cool stats on each Character , information for parents and you play it there too.

Skylanders can be played with friends (or siblings) by simultaneously placing two interaction figures on the Portal of Power (...as long as you have 2 controllers). Each Skylander works across all gaming platforms so they can be taken teleported anywhere, jump from console to console or even to the web.

Activision has ingeniously and very functionally, made a completely cross platform multiplayer game. So if your kids own the PS3 version, they can play the Nintendo Wii version at a friends house with their  own figures.

The ability to trade the Skylanders around and because friends can team up in play means there are endless opportunities to extend the gaming experience with extra battles and challenges. You also might not have to buy them all ( The bonus is you can buy individual Skylanders & pieces so makes for easy birthday party gifts.)

The game is so engaging older siblings (or parents) will want to play along too (trust me). The genius of the game is you can start play or drop out of the game instantly , swap characters in play and add characters. NO more – "I need to finish this level Mum"
 

I know my 9yr nephew and his friends are flippin’ their minds about this game. I saw it on his wish list (on the fridge) and asked my SIL what she knew about Skylanders ? - Just that L really wanted it - She had no idea of the games potential. I told her the website has a great parent's guide. They are getting it on Xbox.

Sure the Skylander characters just explore various levels – castles, mines, forests, pirate ships – beating up enemies as they collect money, unlock gates and solve puzzles but ..... each new figure adds extra challenges and boosts the power of other figures. Extra figures = a life, and as long as you have a free Skylander you continue a level without starting over. The characters don’t die but rest till the next level - I love that we have two Spiros -just saying we needed them !

Skylanders is available for the Nintendo Wii, Sony PlayStation 3, Microsoft XBOX 360, Nintendo 3DS and PC. We have Playstation3 and the graphics and visuals are incredible.

The good news is I have one Skylanders Spyro's Adventure Wii version only to giveaway to one lucky reader. Oh I wish I had more.

In 30 words or less tell me who you would like to be in Skylanders and why ?

If you are the chosen one with the most interesting, creative or original answer - a Skylanders Adventure Wii starter pack will be teleported to you by Australia Post hopefully before Christmas - no promises.

Australian residents only -read full term & conditions.
One entry per person leaving a 30 words or less answer





Have you Liked My Little Drummer Boys

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary PS3 copy for review purposes. No financial payment was offered nor accepted for this post. All opinions expressed are my own.
♥

Win ~ Playstation 3 Console + Ratchet and Clank Prize Pack

Today, we start the long trek East, across three states and over 4000kms, to head home.We have a busy month ahead.

Now that it is less than 8 weeks to Christmas the countdown is on. Though Christmas is so far off my radar it isn't funny. Actually I did start my Christmas shopping (online) the other day and I have my awesome Christmas planning guide to follow .

I have the perfect giveaway to announce today ; the chance to make 4 lucky readers' families very happy.

The Ratchet and Clank prize bundle is sure to herald excitement Christmas morning ...if you can wait that long to the impending delight this game will bring.

Thanks to Hausmann Communications, especially to celebrate the release of Ratchet & Clank® - All 4 one - I have FOUR Playstation console and Ratchet &  Clank prize packs to giveaway.

Ratchet Clank®: All 4 One sees the team at Insomniac Games reunite fans with the wonder and adventure of  Ratchet & Clank® universe in PlayStation®3 (PS3™) system exclusive. Each pack contains

• Sony PlayStation 3 (160GB space) console valued at $349.95

• Ratchet & Clank All 4 One game valued at $99.95

•  Ratchet & Clank All 4 One T-shirt
• Ratchet & Clank All 4 One Keyring

The return of this best-selling series brings an all-new twist to action-adventure gaming while setting the stage for a new story, brought to life with vibrant cinematic visuals .




For the first time Ratchet & Clank: All 4 One introduces up to four player cooperative
game play, allowing players to team up as Ratchet, Clank, Qwark and Dr. Nefarious.

I can't wait to play and review the game with my boys. It is a great way to bond sharing family adventures. Three months ago my babies turned 5 and they love electronic games after they were introduced at the Winter with Sony experience. They haven't stopped asking for us to get a video game system.

Giveaway details ~

I try my best not to make giveaway entries complicated , however due to the difficulty of counting through a high number of entries (to get the correct winning random.org number) and because I'd like to allow you a few extra ways to enter I am using rafflecopter.

Follow the instructions using rafflecopter entry form. Good luck to everyone !

Competition is closed
Entries close midnight November 30th 2011 (11.59pm AEST Sydney) 

Winners will be chosen random.org

Australian residents only.

♥ Never miss a post

Win ~ Sesame Street : Ready, Set, Grover !

I posted a few weeks ago attending the launch of Sesame Street Ready, Set, Grover ! with everyone's favourite cuddly monster Elmo at White Creek Cottage, Lilyfield.

The day focused on game's theme of children learning and developing of healthy habits for life.

Sam & Joel and other children had a great time learning Animalates (stretching, posing etc), cooking healthy food (homemade pizza and cous cous) with Little Spoons, hand hygiene and fun activities in the garden identifying fruit & vegetables and why they were good for growing bodies as well as active play with Wii game.

Sesame Street : Ready, Set, Grover !  is a new video game for preschoolers that encourages the development of healthy habits for life.

There are 4 main themes personal hygiene,physical activity, nutrition and rest & relaxation. Other important skills concurrent in the game play are counting, shape & colour recognition and listening comprehension. As well as timing.

My boys enjoy watching Sesame street most days [twice], so the game was a huge hit because playing with their favourite Sesame Street characters made it more fun . I like that it instils healthy behaviours while still being fun to play.

the yellow stars show stylus action.

There are 4 game areas - Grover's Map

5 games in each area = 20 games with 2-3 levels of difficulty

For Nintendo DS, there is a jumbo click stylus designed for smaller hands and easy interaction with the touch screen . There are also visual guides that really suit preschoolers.

Really, no buttons need to be pressed by children except to turn DS on or pause game. Some games have a voice activated - "JUMP" option (and as Sam discovered for himself blowing). A normal stylus can also be used. 

 

 

The Wii game comes supplied with a soft , furry character cover with special grips- slips over the Wii Remote™, again minimizing unnecessary button pressing, making it easier and more fun to hold.

The Wii version is much more active than the DS for obvious reasons (see our video). Children use hand/arm and body movement while holding the Wii remote to play games.

“Building lifelong healthy habits starts in early childhood,” said Rosemarie Truglio, Ph.D., Vice President of Education & Research at Sesame Workshop. “Ready, Set, Grover! gets kids up and moving though stretching, jumping and dancing, models good hygiene practices and highlights the benefits of healthy food choices through fun and active game play."

In the game, Grover sets out to create a series of challenges designed to help his Sesame Street friends get up and go! Through the course of the game, Elmo and Abby jump over obstacles, row a boat, and play “Grover Says,” all while learning important life lessons on healthy habits to grow with. Through their adventures, the game promotes physical activity, good nutrition, personal hygiene, and even the importance of rest and relaxation.

The game instructions and curriculum concept are simple and clear.

Both versions require minimal involvement by parents [DS version will be great for car trips]. It means preschoolers can play by themselves ; of course as parents getting active and playing with your children is a bonus. I envision extending the game play outside and making our own challenges, like we play in the game.

We reviewed the DS version at home but played Wii Sesame Street Ready, Set, Grover ! - with a life sized Elmo, at launch day. I would have loved to see Grover there.

The DS game allows for 3 customised profiles so each child in your family can play their own game. Children can follow the challenge mode as above or choose their own favourite games to play - the same over and over if they choose. With two - three levels of difficulty , the game self adjusts based on the players performance or parents can adjust it in parents area.

I was impressed with the Parents area - I can set difficulty, review games played and even determine number of games I want them to play 5,10, 15,20 - the child gets a reminder on last game.


Moving onto the giveaway ~

I have 2 prize packs of 3 games (At this stage only to suit Nintendo DS consoles) - includes 1 copy each of Sesame Street : Ready, Set, Grover ! , Sesame Street: Elmo’s A-to-Zoo Adventure and Sesame Street: Cookie’s Counting Carnival which encourage early literacy and math skills, respectively [released last year]

To enter leave a comment telling me a fun way you teach healthy habits to your children

1. For an additional entry, Tweet this post and leave a comment "I Tweeted!"
2. For another entry, share this post on Facebook and leave a comment "I shared on Facebook".
3. Total 3 entries only.
4. Australia residents only.

 Closes Friday 2nd September 11.59pm by Random.org.

PS -Little spoons are on Facebook
♥ Never miss a post

Bored ... Games and Monopoly

I was going through my google reader and came across this link in a post by Laura.

Interestingly , I learned how hidden maps in 'Monopoly' helped Prisoners of War 'get out of jail' during WWII.

So how did a simple board game end up in a position to help out one of the most powerful military forces on the planet? Silk and serendipity ...

The British secret service MI9 conspired with the UK licensee of Monopoly (Parker Bros.) to create special editions of the popular board game . Coincidently, they had just mastered the art of printing on silk.

The top secret escape kits included maps printed on silk, money, compasses, and other tools to help prisoners of war to flee from German war camps.The Silk maps being the key element. The German army had allowed humanitarian groups to distribute the 'innocent' game in care packages to the POWs.

Read the amazing story at Get Out of Jail Free: Monopoly's Hidden Maps

Gee, I haven't played Monopoly in ages might have to drag it out tonight and challenge my DH.
Monopoly has a new game online... Monopoly City Streets ! It uses google maps.
They say Board games are making a comeback too...along with Wii
♥

Never miss a post

Scrabulous anyone ?

thanks to Jen - I went o check out what all the fuss was about Scrabulous.
I love Scrabble and now I need some opponents buddies to play with ... call me if you are interested !