winscape 2236

They're just bargain basement computers, cheaper and smaller than a PC. They do offer a more uniform platform for the game developers which is desirable. But those joysticks are lame once you get beyond the very basic movements.

As annoying as mice are, they are very good at fine 2d sorts of movement which the joystick controls simply can't match, add a keyboard and you have a uniform interface for as many options as you like all 1 button away. Which is not to say joysticks suck as such, mice are terrible for some kinds of games too. But the game consoles exclusive use of those little 2 stick hand controls neuters the interface.

Heh- various parts for stuff. Making knobs, some supports for the shower curtain rod. Wife wants a go-kart, which ought to be a lot of fun. Dad has a telescope mount adaptor too big for his lathe...

I suppose its one way to reduce support costs- produce so much new stuff that people won't notice the old disappearing... avoids all that expensive engineering. I remain curious as to how Microsoft has avoided product liability for so long...

Gregm