Putting a virtual doggy in your window
Article Abstract:
PF Magic's $29.95 Dogz 3 CD-ROM operators to nurture artificially intelligent pets. The game, scheduled for release in Oct 1998, is more sophisticated and rewarding than the Tamagotchi low-resolution key-chain toy. Owners must complete a dialogue box pledging to feed, reward and discipline a virtual puppy through its adulthood. A wide range of accessories are available through the disk's Petz 3 Toy Closet, such as food, water bowls, treats and clothes. Other options are available on the www.petz.net Web site which already lists more than 500,000 Dogz and Catz registrants. Puppies can play in a simulated backyard, kitchen, family room or beach. Owners also can move puppies to the desktop for a pleasant diversion while programs are in operation. The puppy can move over file folders and run up to the cursor with a toy in its mouth, or retrieve a Frisbee across the screen. Ignored puppies will demand food and companionship.
Publication Name: The New York Times
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0362-4331
Year: 1998
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In fantasy game, real cash for virtual cards
Article Abstract:
Digital Addiction's free online Sanctum strategy game allows players to buy fantasy cards for a competitive edge and more complex experience. The two-player game's object consists of capturing the opposing fortress by marching soldiers across a board. Players take turns by selecting virtual cards that create problems such as cannibalism spells, complacency spells or healing their own troops. Each game includes 60 free cards, but players must spend to acquire the full set of 250 cards. Additional 15-card packs range from $1 to $3 and can be purchased through credit cards over the Internet. Players also can trade cards amongst themselves, which creates another strategy dimension. The cards' market value will shift as Digital Addiction introduces and discontinues cards.
Publication Name: The New York Times
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0362-4331
Year: 1998
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Puzzling over the allure of virtual Barbie
Article Abstract:
More than a million copies of Mattel's and Digital Domain's Barbie Cool Looks Fashion Designer CD-ROM software have been sold since its 1996 introduction, but the software does not raise users' cognitive skills. Young girls are basing their technology introduction to computers on accessorizing a computer-generated image that has no tactile qualities. By comparison, boys are learning about three-dimensional mazes and solving logic puzzles. Mattel, which engineered and trademarked the entire CD-ROM software's environment, says girls will develop digital skills to place them on a par with boys in the job market. A question remains whether Barbie Cool Looks Fashion Designer represents any improvement over the real plastic doll that has been available for decades.
Publication Name: The New York Times
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0362-4331
Year: 1998
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