AboutJoseph Expertise I can answer any and all questions regarding any console games made including both older and modern generations (From the Atari 2600 to the Wii) as well as PC Games (both new and old). I'm familiar also with the technical aspect of console gaming systems. I can offer tips and tricks for most any game from finding a secret item to how to get through those stressful boss fights (aka - strategies), as well as recommendations for new and upcoming games. I can't answer questions about how to mod systems (since it voids your warranties anyway) and how to hack video games using your console.
Experience I've worked 2 years at an EB Games as a part time job through college. I've also been playing and collecting video games since I was 6 years old. I've owned all video game systems (new and old!).
Education/Credentials I've had some computer programming experience in my way to become a Computer Engineer.
Awards and Honors I've won many local video game tournaments through games such as Halo, Halo 2, Counterstrike, World of Warcraft (PvP tournaments), and most popular RTS games.
Question Hello. I'm 40, married,and have two little boys, both with autism. Not a lot of time to play games, but have been enjoying some online games during our Christmas break. I want something other than my husband's laptop that I can play on from time to time, and was wondering about the GameBoy advance. I've seen that I can buy some of the games I like for this. Was wondering if you could tell me anything about it:
are the graphics decent (would mostly be playing word games, so not real important);
is this a fairly recent "system" and do you think it would be something I could own, use and purchase games for during the next several years (don't want to have to update often).
To someone who plays a lot of games, these may be silly questions. All I have ever owned is Atari (30 years ago) and Nintendo (20 years ago)! Two special boys keeps me very busy. Just want something to play on occasional "free" evenings.
Thanks,
Michelle
Answer The gameboy advance is a great system and nintendo is a fantastic company when it comes to casual fun games (mario, donkey kong, etc.) But the gameboy advance has been discontinued and you can only find them and the games used at your local eb games of gamestop retailer. I think they're about $40-$50 used. However, for somebody in your position I would recommend the nintendo DS lite. They retail for $130 new and about $110 used at gamestop (I work there so I'll go by their prices.) The system is VERY easy for anyone to be able to pick up and play they're favorite mario games. What makes the system great is the touch screen, adding a simple but fun feel to the games, some games can be played using only the touch screen, making the games intuitive and easy to pick up. Nintendo tailor made the games and system to the casual gamming crowd, those people who maybe play a little bit a day. The great thing about the DS however, is that it will play the gameboy advance games. So if you happen to see a GBA game you would want to play, you can enjoy them no problem wihtout any issues. The DS can also connect to the internet wirelessly right out of the box, nothing extra needed. There are also some great games geared more to adults on the DS. Brain Age 2 is a game that has many little brain teaser type minigames designed to increase your quick recall and memory and is the best selling game for people 30+ and is one of my personal favorite games. There are also sudoku and crossword puzzle games for a more traditional type of game that you can take anywhere with you. You can play for 10 minutes, close up your DS, and come back to it later that day and pick up right where you left off. I really can't recommend them enough, and they are definatly the system I sell more of than anything else at my store. Visit your local eb games or gamestop store and they will be able to answer any of your questions regarding the DS lite as well as being able to recommend any games you may be interested in. Also, games that you may get tired of can be traded back into gamestop for in store credit to other games you may be interested in which can save you some $$$.