Nurve Networks LLC is making progress on what is undoubtedly the most unexpected kind of new video game system: one that users will build and program themselves!
SILICON VALLEY, CA (PRWEB) November 11, 2003 -- Nurve Networks LLC unveils what is undoubtedly the most unexpected kind of new video game system: one that users will build and program themselves. The shear possibility of this is causing pandemonium in the gaming world, but after reviewing the site, the XGS is more than real. Only two short months after the intial public launch of the site and concept, Nurve is making serious progress on the system.
Video games generate billions of dollars in revenue each year and game programming books occupy rows of bookstore shelf space. Video game development has made its way into college curriculums and entire game programming universities have emerged. But, video games run on advanced hardware, the design of which is a black art that few understand.
For over a decade, books by Computer Scientist and best-selling game development author Andre' LaMothe (his latest title "Tricks of the 3D Game Programming Gurus") have taught generations of game developers to create today's cutting-edge video games. Now, his focus is changing from video game software to video game hardware with the unveiling of the XGameStation, a revolutionary new video game system that offers users what no PlayStation or XBOX can -- knowledge.
The XGameStation (XGS) is a complete game development kit, including a fully-assembled unit, a full-length eBook written by Andre LaMothe on the design and programming of the XGS along with all the software necessary to create your own games. The book introduces the reader to digital engineering, then gradually explores the entire design of the XGS's hardware, software, operating system and graphics APIs (Application Programming Interface). Additionally, a second eBook on the design and programming of the built in XGS-BASIC by Alex Varanese rounds out the hard core hardware angle with some software.
Armed with a complete understanding of how the system was built and operates, users then create their own games or play games made by their peers. The online community at www.xgamestation.com completes the system's appeal, providing a place for XGameStation developers to share ideas, software and even discuss hardware modifications.
The system plugs into any TV and supports PlayStation controllers as well as a PS/2 keyboard. Additionally, the XGS comes with a built-in BASIC programming language, giving users the power to create games in their living rooms without the need for a separate computer. XGameStation games and applications are stored on flash memory cartridges, allowing users to develop and download their games from a PC using traditional C/C++ compilers and tools.
In short, by empowering hobbyists and game developers with a game platform they can truly call their own, XGameStation is reviving the magic of programming for systems like the Apple II, Atari 800 and Commodore 64. Unlike systems from Nintendo and Sony, XGS developers face no legal or financial restrictions with XGameStation.
There's no official license, no royalties to pay, and no guidelines to follow. Users are free to let their imaginations and ambitions run wild, which is what the system's designer, LaMothe, is working to provide -- the freedom for the individual to once again call the shots.
The official website for the XGameStation can be found at http://www.xgamestation.com/ there you will find media, downloads, demos, and emulators of the upcoming XGS. The system is targeted to release in early 2004 with pre-orders available in Dec 03/Jan 04.
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