The History of Chess

Posted By Brett Henslee On February - 1 - 2012ADD COMMENTS

The history of chess isn’t especially clear – there’s hardly a country in the world that doesn’t claim to have invented it, including China, Egypt, Greece, Uzbekistan and (most unbelievably) Ireland. Given the evidence, however, it seems most likely than the game of chess has its origins in 6th century India, and was then refined in Persia, from where it travelled to Europe and much later on to America.

The word ‘chess’ itself is believed to be a mangled pronunciation of the Persian word ’shah’, which means king (and is still used today, as in ‘Shah of Iran’). ‘Checkmate’, in this theory, comes from ’shah mat’, which is Persian for ‘the king is finished’.

Chess is notable in the development of games because it does not use dice, meaning that there is no element of luck involved – it is a game of pure skill and strategy. One Indian legend has the game being created by a wise man who was asked by a king to create a game that would enhance his mental abilities and have nothing to do with luck.

While India is keen to claim chess, however, it is hotly disputed. Most Chinese people believe that China invented chess, and also believe that the game is far inferior to Go, which is both older and generally considered more difficult. The Chinese point out that Go has existed since at least 2,000BC, and is played without dice, making it a very likely inspiration for chess.

Iran (Persia), on the other hand, claims that chess is derived from its invention of backgammon, and cite writings and poems that seem to put its date further back than the Indian version. There is no doubting that the version of chess that came to Europe we play today came mainly from Persia, but it is difficult to know exactly where Persia got its inspiration from.

John Gibb is the owner of Chess resources [http://www.chess-resources-and-info.info], For more information on Chess check out [http://www.chess-resources-and-info.info]

How to Start the Game With Four Base Elements

Posted By Amanda Corset On January - 31 - 2012ADD COMMENTS

Alchemy is a game specially designed for Android platform. The game is simple but requiring lots of creativity; not to mention very fun and highly addictive. In Alchemy, your objective is to combine two particular elements in order to create more combos. Some players reckon that this game is similar to PC game Doodle God. When the first generation of Alchemy was released, you could only create 154 elements at the max. However, latest installment of this game allows you to get total of 380 possible combinations of new elements.

In Alchemy, you will be given four base elements (water, earth, fire, and air) to start with. Double tap the game workspace screen to create these elements. For creating more elements in the game, drag and drop one element on top of the other. However, only certain combinations can be used for getting a new one. If your combination is right, you will get a new element on your workspace.

Combining the four base elements correctly will lead you to more various and fun combos. Here are some combinations you can do to create new elements from ‘water’, ‘earth’, ‘fire’, and ‘air’:

Air + air = wind

Air + earth = dust

Air + fire = energy

Air + water = steam

Earth + earth = pressure

Earth + fire = lava

Earth + water = swamp

Fire + water = alcohol

From the combinations, you can create more elements by yourself. For instance, you will get ‘vodka’ if you combine ‘alcohol’ and ‘water’ and so forth.

As the game progresses, you will notice that your workspace will be cluttered by new elements you have successfully combined. You can clear them from the workspace by dragging the icons to the trash can at the bottom of the screen. You can also remove them all at once by tapping a button in the menu. You don’t need to worry as clearing these elements won’t undo the progress you have made. Although erased, you can put the elements you have at least combined once instantly on the workspace screen without having to recreate them.

One of the cool things about Alchemy is that the more you play the more surprise you will get. Not only can you get nature’s elements such as ‘planet’, ‘wood’, ‘wine’, ‘life’, ‘tree’, ‘bacteria’, ‘fish’, ’sand’, or ’shells’, but you will also be able to create popular and commercial ones such as ‘McDonald’s’, ‘The Beatles’, ‘Sex in the City’, ‘Jedi’, ‘Sith’, ‘Lance Armstrong’, ‘Ghostbusters’, or ‘Robin Hood’.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6838915

Benefits of Playing a Tank Game

Posted By Jackie Sizemore On January - 31 - 2012ADD COMMENTS

The tank game was first introduced into the market in the 1980’s and over the years has undergone several developments, which endears it to players. It is highly recommended for players inclined towards defense games; players who love the battlefield will be thrilled by it. This is because of the thrill that is associated with it such as having to overcome and destroy several enemies. If you want to learn more about it before playing, the following are some of the benefits associated with it.

- Exciting
Because of the high concentration span that is needed to destroy enemies, this is seen as one of the highly exciting games. High-speed motion is involved and there are different types of terrains for players to move in. Players are bound to enjoy adrenaline rush and considering the modifications applied in different games, players can settle for what captures their fancy.

- Easy Game Play
Players do not have to be experts in order to have a good time. There are just a couple of tips that need to be followed in order to come out victorious while playing tank game. Key among them is learning how the keys are controlled. Once this is achieved, the rest will be easy to accomplish. It is precisely because of this that it has the ability of capturing the players’ attention.

- Challenging
Contrary to popular belief that it offers easy play, this could not be further from the truth. It is rather challenging and this keeps the players mind engaged thus increasing the level of creativity and imagination. For this reason, it is considered an ideal choice for players from different age groups. The idea is to beat all opponents and to accomplish this end a high level of concentration is needed. Consequently, this increases the player’s ability to face tough real life issues as well.

- User Interface
The user interface is easy to use and to prove this, you just need a stable online connection and a PC. What is more, you can also download it and enjoy playing at your own convenience.

- Free and Paid Choices
Depending on what you are looking for, you can opt for a free tank game or a paid one. Regardless of what you choose, it is important to note that you will receive the same thrill.

It is precisely because of all these benefits that this is seen as a worthwhile choice for players though this is a decision that can only be made based on individual needs.

Tank game not only gives players the opportunity to enhance their concentration skills but also the chance to have a good time. Additionally, tank game also offers players a user interface that makes it exciting for first time players as well.

2012 In Video Gaming: 10 Games to Wait For

Posted By Joshua Adekane On January - 31 - 2012ADD COMMENTS

Year 2011 has been very good for a gamer, possibly the best in a long time. We had Littlebigplanet 2, Killzone 3, Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, Uncharted 3 and the list goes on. The year 2012 will see many original video games, as well as the release of numerous sequels to already successful franchises. Here are ten titles to wait for in 2012.

1. Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning

This upcoming single-player RPG developed by 38 studios has all the potential to be a success. The game universe is created by fantasy author R.A. Salvatore and responsible for the artwork has been no other than Todd McFarlane (Creator of Spawn). Taking God of War and marrying it with Oblivion is a BIG promise (one made by Curt Schilling), but we will see does the game live up with the hype. Oh and btw Claudia Black (you know.. Morrigan) is doing some voice acting.

2. Torchlight II

Supposedly being bigger and better than the original game, Torchlight II features overland areas with multiple hub towns, and a longer campaign. New features are heard to be included as well such as time of day cycles, weather and renewed user interface. Players can now also customize their appearance with choice of gender, face, and hair style. We are eager ready for this new hack-and-slash rpg. PC, MAC

3. Final Fantasy XIII-2

Claiming to fix the problem fans hated in Final Fantasy XIII, read: linearity, the game continues five years after the events of FFXIII. The game claims to add freedom, new towns, and improvements to the (already excellent) battle-system. Glorious world design, excellent combat and strong storytelling: These are the things look for in Final Fantasy XIII-2. PS3, XBOX360

4. Ni no Kuni: Wrath of the White Witch

We love eye candy and interesting stories. A game which combines both, is surely welcomed. If you already haven’t heard: Ni No Kuni: Wrath of the White Witch is a game developed by LEVEL-5 with Animation by Studio Ghibli. The title surely has the potential to be a keeper. PS3, 3DS

5. The Last Guardian

What can Team Ico can offer us this time? If you loved Ico or the Shadow of Colossus there is no need for explanation because it is something good. Unfortunately, The Last Guardian has been a title people have just been waiting… and waiting.. and waiting with most recent news being Yoshifusa Hayama, The Last Guardian’s executive producer, leaving the studio to develop some Facebook games!!! The Last Guardian is a third-person perspective game that combines action-adventure and puzzle elements. PS3

6. Uncharted: Golden Abyss

Uncharted: Golden Abyss is the first Uncharted prequel and first Uncharted title on handheld devices, meaning Sony’s upcoming PlayStation Vita. We will see how the Uncovering of the dark secret behind the 400-year-old massacre of a Spanish expedition goes on PS Vitas OLED screen. PlayStation Vita.

7. The Last of Us

We don’t know much about this title yet, since it was just recently released. Resembling I am Legend, the game has astonishing graphics and developer team which no doubt can deliver a real adventure. If Uncharted meets Enslaved in this game, consider me sold. Even with so little detail, this game might already be the most hyped PS3 game for the following year. PS3

8. GTA V

GTA V, the latest installment in the Grand Theft Auto series and another GTA that is set in Los Santos, San Andreas! The game looks awesome so far and will most likely deliver what is to be expected.

9. Borderlands 2

Gearbox’s shoot and loot game looks better than ever. The first Borderlands was purely an awesome game. Building upon the gameplay elements of its predecessor, Borderlands 2 features all-new characters, skills, environments, enemies, weapons and equipment, which come together in a crafted story. PC, PS3, XBOX360

10. Mass Effect 3

Earth has been taken, the galaxy is on the verge of total annihilation, and you are the only one who can stop them. This probably is the game everybody is waiting for. Mass Effect 2 was the best sci-fi RPG I’ve ever played. So get ready to follow YOUR story of Commander Shepard in Mass Effect 3, if you have the save-game files for Mass Effect and Mass Effect 2. If you don’t.. I suggest you leave home now and don’t come back without those earlier Mass Effects.

Video Game Physics: Suspension of Disbelief Not Included

Posted By Eleanor Dukes On January - 31 - 2012ADD COMMENTS

So I’ve been playing a bit of Angry Birds on the smartphone recently. Very cute little game of course, but the physics engine is really what has me interested right now. I cleared a few levels last night and it got fascinating because so many of the levels are designed around this. I spent a week or two on and off trying to clear an earlier level where you have to knock down a pair of heavy “cages” the pigs are in and I finally discovered through trial and error that hitting them in just the right spot will set up enough vibration to rock the cage and make it tumble down on the pigs.

So it’s definitely a question of finesse – brute forcing it doesn’t work since the birds I had on that level are too small to break the cages easily otherwise and you don’t have enough of them. That level and some of the others really impressed me – there’s definitely a lot of thought put into the physics engine (I like how you can see the trajectory of the last bird you fired, too) that really makes the game tricky since you can sometimes rely on dumb luck and other times you just have to arc your shots just right to hit a sweet spot that sets off a chain reaction of things tumbling every which way. Surprising depth for a game you play on the smartphone.

At the same time, I’ve also been playing a bit of Just Cause 2 on XBox (basically Grand Theft Auto on a jungle island) and one of the entertaining aspects of the game is the movie-style stunt physics for vehicles. This gets amusing when you get chased by the police, lead them up a hill and end up flipping your car over the other side, roll it about 5 times then land upright and can still drive away. Absolutely ridiculous but at the same time, it’s cool to see how much thought they put into it – much like Angry Birds, there’s definitely a focus on making the physics work in that particular setting.

Of course, video game physics sometimes have unintended results – a famous example being “rocket jumping” in Quake. Quake was one of the first I remember really having a physics engine built-in (considering it came out in 1997) and players discovered that you could boost yourself in the air using the rocket launcher, allowing them to reach areas of the game that would either be inaccessible altogether like high ledges or not accessible until later. This was a completely unintentional effect of the physics engine and added another aspect to gameplay for the more skilled players who mastered it, especially in online play against other people where it allowed faster movement around a level.

Justin is an early 30s geek and writer who spends most of his waking hours tanning by the soothing white light of a computer screen. He blogs on various aspects of tech including the Internet, gadgets, console gaming and computer hardware/software. All opinions (both fallacious and spot-on) are strictly his and do not reflect the views of his fine employers. Visit his tech blog to read more!

Business Innovation Will make or Break Your organization

Posted By Dharius Jennar On January - 31 - 2012ADD COMMENTS

When it concerns increasing business advancement, every company should first look in their organization and examine what it does effectively and successfully. They must also take a look at those things which are in need of improvement. This could be of their general business model or within their services and products.

The best way to determine the areas in which a business needs to develop and improve would be to compare them to similar companies within the same specialitzation. This also includes companies that are similar in size which offer the same types of products. By comparing a company looking for innovation to others, one can quickly start to see what some other businesses do more successfully and begin to learn how you can, in turn, be more innovative to make better results.

Learning from the particular successes and downfalls of others is by far probably the most simplistic manners when a company can begin increasing their personal business innovation. This method of achievement is probably the easiest and most cost-effective ways in which a company can truly acquire high numbers of business success. This should by no means be confused with copying another company; it is simply a way of considering something from another viewpoint.

Companies that choose never to be innovative and choose never to set themselves over their competition, are those businesses that never succeed past the first few decades. They generally must close their doors because of lack of income and success since they’re unable to change or adjust to their environment and customer requirements.

One way a business can successfully achieve feedback that can be used to move with a higher level of success would be to actually speak right to their clients, similar to what’s taught in the Six Sigma Certification. This might appear obvious, but is usually overlooked. Most times, a business owner is indeed wrapped up inside their own mind, they have trouble seeing the huge picture or reading things that might not be pleasant. Using test sets of individuals, a company can obtain feedback about their products and services in order to begin to help make improvements or changes that will positively affect their business on all levels.

Companies that don’t heed to the requests of these clients and companies that don’t truly listen with their clients’ needs tend to be those companies which are destined to fail. The old saying how the “customer is always right” hasn’t been more true than it is in this point in time. I suggest enlisting a number of your employees directly into Lean Six Sigma classes to aid with these problems.

If you maintain these simple information and ideas in your mind when considering the present condition of your business, you will truly begin to see how important it is for you to be innovative and to make smart business decisions which are always moving your organization forward and in to the future successfully.

Schedule a Six Sigma Certification class today! SixSigmaCertification.co offers top notch Six Sigma Training!

How To Organize Your Home The Right Way

Posted By Brandon Woods On January - 30 - 2012ADD COMMENTS

Remodeling is one area a lot of people feel is necessary to give a fresh look to their home.

Some thing which works instead of redecorating is re-organizing your home. Have you actually seen how much different your house seems to be after you have spent the weekend cleaning it up, and putting everything back in its place? The more structured your house, the less stressed you will likely become. Usually, you will feel like you have removed a burden off of your shoulders.

If it’s possible to operate your life more efficiently due to the organization of your home, it allows for a smoother and easier life. Added time will result in being with those you love most for a longer time. There are some preparations you need to make before you start.

Are you going to keep tripping over shoes and miscellaneous objects, is there a big mess on top of your desk, are the car keys always eluding you, then it’s time for a change. Going along with the issue is often the best answer.

An example of this is to quit trying to get the shoes put away in the individual closets, and just put an attractive basket in the front hall, where all of the shoes can go.

For those who have a basket that’s organized, your children will likely take the few seconds to put them away properly.

It’s a win-win situation for anyone involved. Making certain your youngsters are following the rules usually takes a little bit of work. Eventually, it’s going to become a habit and your persistence will have paid off making you wonder why you hadn’t started earlier.

A remedy for your keys is usually to have hooks for your keys or a bowl you can place them in. Perhaps you will want to use a tray on your dresser, and whatever works for you, is what you should do. After you grab your mail, go through it right then, and get rid of the junk mail immediately.

Instead of spending a lot of time and begrudgingly going through the mail, you can complete it in smaller steps. Every single room within your house ought to have shelves, and places for storage. It usually is both trendy and efficient to get this done.

Plastic bins that keep different spices, sauces, and various other items will help your kitchen be more organized. Stylish baskets can certainly hold items that aren’t usual from the bathroom.

Same thing for your den, where gorgeous trunks, or baskets can hold plenty of toys, books, or movies. Your family will most likely feel pride in having a more efficient and friendly home.

Writer is an author, entrepreneur and niche website builder. Additionally of running multiple entities online which primarily devoted to SEO, he also created wonderful websites on multiple subjects like lamp shades and pink chandelier as well.

Are you struggling while searching for the best resource materials and references to help you get prepared for the FAA written exam? If your answer is yes, there is no doubt that you are amongst the thousands of student pilots looking after the same thing as you are.

If you have the determination and motivation to get that private pilot license, more or less, you are more worried than anyone else in the world. You cannot deny the simple fact that taking the exam and other requirements cost a lot.

This should give you more reasons why you must pass the exam on your first try. You don’t have to go over the examination twice, thrice or even more. Hence, what you should do is to stop worrying about that, and concentrate on how you would be able to get everything right on the first try.

First and foremost, the FAA written exam is divided into different categories. A lot of resources found over the internet can be referred to in preparation for the exam.

On the other hand, you may also ask your flight instructor, or take note during your lectures from your chosen ground school to help you further review for the upcoming exam.

Some people think that only those who are born intelligent have the capability to pass the FAA written test. I say that with proper preparation, and with the right review materials, you can get your license in no time.

You have two options when it comes to preparation for the FAA written exam: you may study independently and rely on the lessons from your ground school, or enroll in short courses online to help you pass the examination. Once more, the internet has a great bowl of knowledge on the best tips advices for the upcoming and anticipated exam.

A number of individuals were able to pass the exam – so it is completely possible for you to do the same thing. Don’t be afraid about the FAA written exam itself. If you know that you have done everything on your end, then there isn’t really anything to be anxious about.

Are you looking for ways on how you can pass the FAA Written Exam without being anxious and afraid about it? Let me help you!

FAA Written Exam: Where Can You Get Them?

Posted By Gertrude S. Patterson On January - 30 - 2012ADD COMMENTS

Part of being a private pilot is being able to pass the FAA written exam in order to get a hold of that sweet license or private pilot certificate. A lot of individuals are dreaming of getting this license so they can pursue their career as a private pilot.

However, not really most of individuals are knowledgeable regarding how they can easily get ready themselves with regard to the FAA written exam, making a massive percentage of student pilots clueless; with no idea on how they need to deal with the examinations they must undergo to acquire that license.

The advantage of technology is the fact that you will find everything through the World Wide Web. Regardless if you are looking for services and products, or whether you are searching for a contact number of FAA written examination planning exercises.

We should recognize the simple truth that what we are missing are a few common details the possible topics which are about to generally be included in the test. This is now what we need to have – a web-based source that permits all of us to answer exercise questions and allow us to solve situations that can be in connection with several private pilot topics, as well as potential topics that may be seen in the FAA written exam.

The FAA published exam includes 5 unique topics: leisure, private, device, commercial and flight educator pilot. Hence, when searching for online learning resources, it’s a good idea for you to select internet sites that deal with all of these topics as a way to assist you to pass the exam effortlessly.

Reviewing for your FAA written exam can sometimes be stressful. This is why you need to find an online source that lets you save your previous work, and let you come back from where you left off.

Fundamentally, you might need to subscribe to these internet sites – some are available without charge in a limited period, while a few might demand a per month regular membership payment just before you will gain complete permission to access the set of questions.

It doesn’t matter how you choose to review and get ready for the FAA written exam, it is suggested that you completely prepare yourself mentally, physically and emotionally for that expected day. Regardless of how excellent your instruments and resources are, in case you have not really put your heart and intellect and well prepared for this day, all the things that you have worked hard for are going to be worthless, constantly put this in your mind.

Are you anxious and looking for resources and information regarding the FAA Written Exam? You’re at the right place!

FAA Written Test: Every Individual’s Guide Towards Success

Posted By James Marshall On January - 30 - 2012ADD COMMENTS

Becoming a private pilot is considered to be a lifelong accomplishment. But before you can consider yourself as one that flies an aircraft, the FAA written test must be passed so you can get a hold on that private pilot license.

Unfortunately, several people are still unaware of the methods that will be needed prior to FAA written test. However, you are really lucky simply because you are now reading this article which can surely provide all of the information that you will need to complete the exam and achieve your private pilot license.

The first thing that must be done is to look for a ground school with good reputation or perhaps search for a private pilot instructor that has the capability to provide sufficient knowledge that will be relevant to your chosen career. This will be a great chance for you to be a non-commercial pilot. In line with this, you will be really required to have a formal education and adequate knowledge before attempting to take the test.

Before you get your private pilot certificate, and before you take the FAA written test, you need to complete a couple of training courses, as well as take a flight simulation. This enables you to determine whether you are completely ready to take the exam, or whether you need more training to be mentally prepared.

Of course, you should have the FAA knowledge required before you instructor finally gives you the knowledge test, which is also called as the private pilot check ride.

One more thing that you must know about the FAA written exam is to pass the oral and practical flight training and test at the same time before having your license.

These three exams are the most crucial parts before you may officially announce yourself becoming a private pilot as soon as you get that sweet license or certificate of yours.

Isn’t it exciting to apply for an entry level job with your private pilot license on your hand? Pass the FAA written test with flying colors and start flying an aircraft with that certificate.

Do you want to learn the easy ways on passing the FAA Written Test? Learn more by visiting our website!