here are many different Sims players out there buying this game from years of playing The Sims 2, and I think some of them will be impressed with The Sims 3, while others disappointed.
Note: This review is for the base game only, and does not include any of the expansion packs.
Create-A-Sim Players: 4/5
If you have an juiced up computer, the graphics are amazing. The customization you can give a sim is also very rewarding; you can now color customize the different parts of a sim's outfit with virtually any color, and the pattern system they've created only increases the amount of customization you can give a sim's clothing. A sim's hair coloration is now broken up into four parts, all of which can be set to any color you wish. The only disadvantage I found is that there doesn't seem to be as many ways to customize the face as there had been in Sims 2; there are some new, different ways though.
House Building Players: 5/5
Because of the new pattern system in the game, building houses now has a new level of customization, making it easier to customize a house's color and texture to your liking. Another nice thing is that furniture can now be placed at angles, so you no longer have to worry about awkward placement of objects near angled walls. Just keep in mind that since this is the first game, with no expansions made yet, there is a limited amount of furniture you can use. Also, if you're only interested in building houses, its not as easy as simply clicking on the lot you wish to build, once the game starts; you actually need to be playing your saved household and then exit your household for "Edit Town," where you can then select a lot to build on.
Neighborhood Building Players: 1/5
If you were big on building neighborhoods in Sims 2, you're going to very, very disappointed. You can no longer make your own neighborhoods; you are stuck with customizing Sunset Valley (the only neighborhood that comes with the game) or downloading another neighborhood from The Sims 3 website. There are no pre-made empty neighborhoods you can create and then customize and populate. Needless to say, there is no compatibility with SimCity 4 neighborhoods either. You're stuck with Sunset Valley, and that's that.
Note: There is now a "Create a World Tool" (in beta form and only for PCs) on the official website, but it's a very difficult to use if you don't know what you're doing.
Movie/Story Players: 5/5
If you're into making movies or stories there doesn't seem to be big difference between Sims 2. Photo capture now seems to be similar to what the "Print Screen" button does on your keyboard. The quality is exactly what you see on the screen, and the size of the image is as big as your resolution for the game. Video capture options seem almost identical to Sims 2. And like Sims 2, the controls are still difficult to deal with if you're trying to make smooth transitions. Also, there is no in-game Storytelling option anymore, storytelling is mostly focused online at The Sims 3 website, where there are some neat tools you can use for editing.
Single Family Players: 4/5
If you liked only playing one household in Sims 2 (like if you were into the Legacy Challenge) Sims 3 makes it even more interesting and more realistic with the fact that the entire neighborhood ages around your sim; no more childhood friends always being children, even when your sims have become adults; no more grandchildren out-aging their grandparents because they happen to be on different lots. And not only that, but you can now explore the rest of the world, expanding the possibilities for your sims.
Multi-Family/God Players: 2/5
If you liked jumping between many different houses and creating a complex story between many different households, you may be in for a big disappointment with Sims 3. You've ultimately been demoted from being god. You can no longer save individual households for later. Once you leave a household the sims there become NPCs (characters for the computer to control) and continue on their own lives and own story without your help. This may sound odd but Sims 3 is more of a game, and less of a device to tell a huge complex story.
The Sims 2 Console Players: 5/5
For people who loved The Sims 2 for PlayStation 2, X-Box, and GameCube, The Sims 3 plays very similar to those. In fact, The Sims 3 seems like a souped up version of the console Sims 2. For people who hated The Sims 2 console games, well . . . you may not like how The Sims 3 plays.
You're liking of The Sims 3 is really going to depend on what you did and enjoyed in The Sims 2. And sadly, I have to say this game isn't for everyone who loved The Sims 2.
New Players: 3/5 - 5/5
For players who haven't played the Sims games before, from my experience, Sims has either been a hit or miss deal. You either like it or you don't. And it's hard to say whether or not you'll like it until you give it a try. Sims can be a very repetitive game, yet a very addicting game. It all depends on what entertains you. As I've said above, Sims is a very creative game, and that alone can be entertaining for hours. The customization in the game is probably one of the game's greatest assets. As far as game-play is concerned, part of the game is about making your own story, but there are also objectives ("opportunities" and "wishes") that help make the game challenging and entertaining if you're more goal-oriented. But keep in mind, if you're looking for a game with a solid plot and an ending, this isn't the game for you. Sims is a game that never ends. It's a simulation game of life, and The Sims is never short on life; even if you kill off everyone in your neighborhood, you can simply create more.
[This part wasn't originally in the review, but I figured since I was focusing on people who were familiar with The Sims 2, I decided to add this.]
Wednesday, July 5, 2000
Tuesday, July 4, 2000
Mario Kart Wii | 6.5
Anyone who put a few hours of play time into this game will realize that it's easier to get into than past Mario Kart titles, mostly purists will sense this right away. Nintendo made this title with the casual gamer in mind to get the most attention and for the most part it pays off.
Mario Kart lets you play through several game modes where you pick a character, pick a kart or motorcycles (new to the franchise), pick a stage (16 classic tracks from past MK titles and 16 brand new tracks) and then you race for 1st place against 11 other CPU racers. Along the way, you can pick up several power ups to help you or hinder your competition as well as multiple ledges to perform speed boosts. As you go through the single player mode, you start off at the lowest class (50 cc) and earn the right to unlock the 100 cc class (cars go faster) and the 150 cc (cars go the fastest.) Races take place in the form of "Cups" featuring tracks of various themes. Of course, Nintendo always pack in extra content waiting to be unlocked when you fulfill certain conditions. In the end you can unlock secret characters, karts and motorcycles. Anything you unlocked in the single player mode can be used in the online multiplayer modes, which is where you can race up to 11 other people from across the world. Win your races and you win rank points and improve your status online.
The PROS: graphics, sounds and music. There are lots of characters to use. There are lots of karts, bikes and characters to unlock. The controls are very easy to use and you have a choice of Wiimote and Nunchuk, Classic Pro controller, Wii Wheel (included with game) or Gamcube controller as your means to control the game. 4 player support is available so you can play with your friends. Online multiplayer is fun and works (unlike the online multiplayer featured in Super Smash Bros Brawl.)
The CONS: Remember when I said earlier the casual gamer can get into this game? It's because the overall difficulty of this game in general is low, EXCEPT for the cheap A.I. on the highest difficulty level. Racing in the 150 cc means dealing with the cheap, cheezy, rubber band A.I. of the CPU racers (very frustrating at times.) Some single player modes are not available in the multi-player modes. And yes, hackers have found a way to boost their stats and snag power ups without actually acquiring them so beware whenever you race online for any funny activity.
It plays a lot like Mario Kart 64 so why should a 6.0 be bumped up to a 8.5? It shouldn't go pass 6,5 in my opinion. Just because it is fun could also mean its stupid fun. I had stupid fun when I was a kid, but I'm a grown up. Grown-up hate this. This is the only game my non-gamer mother wants to play; therefore, it can't be a 7, 8, 9 or even 10.
Mario Kart lets you play through several game modes where you pick a character, pick a kart or motorcycles (new to the franchise), pick a stage (16 classic tracks from past MK titles and 16 brand new tracks) and then you race for 1st place against 11 other CPU racers. Along the way, you can pick up several power ups to help you or hinder your competition as well as multiple ledges to perform speed boosts. As you go through the single player mode, you start off at the lowest class (50 cc) and earn the right to unlock the 100 cc class (cars go faster) and the 150 cc (cars go the fastest.) Races take place in the form of "Cups" featuring tracks of various themes. Of course, Nintendo always pack in extra content waiting to be unlocked when you fulfill certain conditions. In the end you can unlock secret characters, karts and motorcycles. Anything you unlocked in the single player mode can be used in the online multiplayer modes, which is where you can race up to 11 other people from across the world. Win your races and you win rank points and improve your status online.
The PROS: graphics, sounds and music. There are lots of characters to use. There are lots of karts, bikes and characters to unlock. The controls are very easy to use and you have a choice of Wiimote and Nunchuk, Classic Pro controller, Wii Wheel (included with game) or Gamcube controller as your means to control the game. 4 player support is available so you can play with your friends. Online multiplayer is fun and works (unlike the online multiplayer featured in Super Smash Bros Brawl.)
The CONS: Remember when I said earlier the casual gamer can get into this game? It's because the overall difficulty of this game in general is low, EXCEPT for the cheap A.I. on the highest difficulty level. Racing in the 150 cc means dealing with the cheap, cheezy, rubber band A.I. of the CPU racers (very frustrating at times.) Some single player modes are not available in the multi-player modes. And yes, hackers have found a way to boost their stats and snag power ups without actually acquiring them so beware whenever you race online for any funny activity.
It plays a lot like Mario Kart 64 so why should a 6.0 be bumped up to a 8.5? It shouldn't go pass 6,5 in my opinion. Just because it is fun could also mean its stupid fun. I had stupid fun when I was a kid, but I'm a grown up. Grown-up hate this. This is the only game my non-gamer mother wants to play; therefore, it can't be a 7, 8, 9 or even 10.
Monday, July 3, 2000
Playstation 3 - Batman: Arkham Asylum 9.0
The Joker is hotter than hot, thanks to the great role of Heath Ledger in The Dark Knight. Batman now faces many in the second place, in terms of popularity (and Robin at the last, simply because he is gay). We think the thoughts that this game will be different. Batman: Arkham Asylum not immediately attracted the most attention of many people. Batman games were never really highly regarded and why the expectations were not high in this title, with surely a very interesting setting. I had very high expectations for this game, because I had secretly hoped that it would be a little sleeper hit. Read on and you'll know whether I was right.
The story now is no big secret anymore, because that was really the only thing most were released. Batman, our sexy man with a fetish for bats, the infamous Joker arrested. The strange this is that it went from there very easily. Almost without protest caught the bat friend the smiley. . Batman drives full speed into the prison / asylum Arkham Asylum, where The Joker is thrown behind bars. Unfortunately, the party not because this was just the Joker counted. . Everything is to hand and within seconds turned to Arkham Asylum has become his playground.
Here we must immediately stop here for a break. Moments later we see Killer Croc, who was removed from his cell for a transfer. The beast was not happy and threatened to make Batman's life miserable the next time he has a chance to do so. Now we continue where we left off: The Joker escapes.
Batman guessed something, but he is again doomed. Now the player takes control of Batman and can get to work. The Joker in Batman sends only criminals off. This is the perfect opportunity for the controls once the paces and in particular the aspect Knok. This is very limited, but still very dynamic. You can kick and hit a square. Can counter attack with triangle and you can make enemies dizzy circle. As the whole joke is: the fight is not so much the repeating what we used it in other fighting games. BBatman reacts differently to each of the positions the enemy. Thus, he example a flip kick and then a few criminals to hand out as far, but only to go fist as everyone snug around him.
Especially the counter attack we find very enjoyable to do. This attack provides the most satisfying. This is also what you most need to keep an eye on you. The bad guys get three Harry Potter-like lightning icons above their head, before they attack you want. . At that moment you must press triangle, so that the counter can start. You'll very much this kind of fighting experience in Batman: Arkham Asylum. . Also something that could happen very repetitive. However, the blades sometimes alternating with sociopaths and psychopaths with him actually crazier than a door. The idiots with knives you get down with the easiest one stun attack (O button) and the most craziest (you probably know them: to have clothes with super long sleeves and think that the floor moves) have only one hit and a finishing blow required. If the crooks on the ground to die, you give them a final blow. Do this by holding R1 and pressing triangle.
Once the first group to have been grounds for criminals we can proceed with the game. Batman does everything in order to stop The Joker. We will not spoil things in the game going, because who will buy the game still can go enjoy the many surprises that the game is rich. Some characters are such a star in the game that have never been announced. They will also provide the necessary variety in the game.People with the greatest fear, that the game will be very repetitive, I can reassure you. There are many aspects to be addressed, that the game time after time so interesting. In the beginning you only with your fists, for example, the Batarang and grappling hook to do. But in the course of the game with other gadgets you can get to work.
Later on also gives you explosive gel and a grapple gun that Batman can move vertically. The gadgets play an important role in the game, because sometimes you are obliged to use it otherwise you will just not go in the game. One nice extra (but not for us to Batman) is that The Riddler is also working on Arkham Island. The Riddler has spread here and Riddler Trophies that you can start searching. We are accustomed in such kind of games that if you have extras, although not often yields results. In Batman: Arkham Asylum wel. In Batman: Arkham Asylum is. Besides the Trophies The Riddler has also invented puzzles that you're allowed to solve.. Based on these riddles must you can figure out what you should do a scan (hold L2).
TThe Riddler will almost always comment if you've found something. Although limited to the following comments how stupid you do not have, not how great he is or how long it has not lasted, before you found out what the mystery was. Juist hier viel ons wat op. Exactly what we came here. There is a lot spoken by the voice actors. We have our play session might only twice heard a particular sentence for the second time was used. The Joker also goes by the constant intercom and that's really never the same and always hilarious. Besides the Trophies, secret maps and chattering teeth that you can collect and destroy, you can record tapes from some bad guys find out the Batman comics.
This must also find and Sleuth. They are extras, but very nice. For example, you hear some conversations between the psychiatrist and The Joker. Also include The Riddler and Harley Quinn can hear the conversations. They are not only fun, but they also say more about the story behind the characters.Besides the tapes can also (you can find so many different things in Batman Arkham Asylum) with one stone beetle find out. The Arkham Chronicles. Why this name? If you have found them the story of the founder of Arkham Asylum hearing. He tells how it all started and what he experienced when he was doing.
Yet we have a few downsides to this game. So the bosses are very mild. The best had been less superficial. The bosses were maybe five years ago groundbreaking, but are now very overtakes. Also the game is not very difficult to call. In many fights with the inmates is a good vigilance is required, but then you also if you give enough punches and countered. The fighting itself may indeed be repetitive, but luckily you can in certain rooms in true Batman style you're going to attack enemies. Throw the Gargoyles (Gargoyles) ensures that Batman is invisible to the criminals and the many gadgets allows the player to make a truly many different ways to proceed.
When enough challenges from the Riddler has settled, we can climb the Challenge mode. Here you can fight against hordes of criminals just as quiet as possible a few criminals knock out. While doing this you can complete three challenges. Example of a gargoyle hanging criminals (by means of an inverted take down) or by using your explosives. If you do this you earn points on the natural world leaderboards appear. There are sixteen Challenges to unlock during the Story mode. If you have found enough Riddler Trophies unlock your Character biographies of Character Trophies. The biographies can be read and 3D Character Trophies are just the characters that you can see below (Harley Quinn has a very sexy package to ...).
We almost forget one important aspect in the game: the Detective Mode. When this mode is activated, with a Batman type X-ray view of the world bad guys easily (through walls) in one spot and see if a particular instant wall weak enough to blow. You know this only too well the many trailers and wonder whether you throughout the game by this view will not only play, but falling into giant. Sometimes you into the game follow a certain track, the time of the CSI game, but this is purely for atmosphere and is not profound All in all a very useful tool for the friend who bats dierendag extra bats in the sun sets.
Batman has a lot in terms of extras to offer. It is deep, interesting and fun to explore them all. The basic gameplay is nice, but interesting enough to the many hours to maintain. . You do the long game, even once an asset, but there is people backtracking in the game. Only every time, when you enter a certain place, it is totally different. Some characters make for a very pleasant change and the story is fascinating rete. Graphics are impressive. The Unreal Engine is very good use of animations and Batman are also high (ragdolls never get weird poses). . His cape flies great the whole game and certainly at times when we may float a bit, this is very cool. The game provides a very good feeling Batman and The Joker is super well reflected in the game. People who swear by Heath Ledger, The Joker also does justice to his role.
What can we say? There is much in the game is good it really is a super game. It has become a sleeper hit that nobody saw coming. The AI is good, the battles are not as boring as Assassin's Creed and working with as you take down a criminal, the other does not really wait. The many unlockables are fun to find, the environments are amazing (but wait until you come to the Penitentiary!), The recorded voices are great and the characters are fantastic shape. Anyone slightly familiar with the comics here will have a feast.Gamers who are not fans of Batman will also be pure enjoyment from the game can get. The game offers a lot and is a good warmup for the grand Assassin's Creed 2, because it is more modern. We can only recommend everyone to go get this game directly to the local game farm, because everything is just entertaining in this game!
- Extra's fascinatin
- Good story.
- Nice graphics.
- No Robin in the game.
- Play nice.
- Gadgets are bold.
- Great atmosphere
- Overtakes his bosses.
- Riddler maps are very easy quest.
- Battles are slightly monotonous.
The story now is no big secret anymore, because that was really the only thing most were released. Batman, our sexy man with a fetish for bats, the infamous Joker arrested. The strange this is that it went from there very easily. Almost without protest caught the bat friend the smiley. . Batman drives full speed into the prison / asylum Arkham Asylum, where The Joker is thrown behind bars. Unfortunately, the party not because this was just the Joker counted. . Everything is to hand and within seconds turned to Arkham Asylum has become his playground.
Here we must immediately stop here for a break. Moments later we see Killer Croc, who was removed from his cell for a transfer. The beast was not happy and threatened to make Batman's life miserable the next time he has a chance to do so. Now we continue where we left off: The Joker escapes.
Batman guessed something, but he is again doomed. Now the player takes control of Batman and can get to work. The Joker in Batman sends only criminals off. This is the perfect opportunity for the controls once the paces and in particular the aspect Knok. This is very limited, but still very dynamic. You can kick and hit a square. Can counter attack with triangle and you can make enemies dizzy circle. As the whole joke is: the fight is not so much the repeating what we used it in other fighting games. BBatman reacts differently to each of the positions the enemy. Thus, he example a flip kick and then a few criminals to hand out as far, but only to go fist as everyone snug around him.
Especially the counter attack we find very enjoyable to do. This attack provides the most satisfying. This is also what you most need to keep an eye on you. The bad guys get three Harry Potter-like lightning icons above their head, before they attack you want. . At that moment you must press triangle, so that the counter can start. You'll very much this kind of fighting experience in Batman: Arkham Asylum. . Also something that could happen very repetitive. However, the blades sometimes alternating with sociopaths and psychopaths with him actually crazier than a door. The idiots with knives you get down with the easiest one stun attack (O button) and the most craziest (you probably know them: to have clothes with super long sleeves and think that the floor moves) have only one hit and a finishing blow required. If the crooks on the ground to die, you give them a final blow. Do this by holding R1 and pressing triangle.
Once the first group to have been grounds for criminals we can proceed with the game. Batman does everything in order to stop The Joker. We will not spoil things in the game going, because who will buy the game still can go enjoy the many surprises that the game is rich. Some characters are such a star in the game that have never been announced. They will also provide the necessary variety in the game.People with the greatest fear, that the game will be very repetitive, I can reassure you. There are many aspects to be addressed, that the game time after time so interesting. In the beginning you only with your fists, for example, the Batarang and grappling hook to do. But in the course of the game with other gadgets you can get to work.
Later on also gives you explosive gel and a grapple gun that Batman can move vertically. The gadgets play an important role in the game, because sometimes you are obliged to use it otherwise you will just not go in the game. One nice extra (but not for us to Batman) is that The Riddler is also working on Arkham Island. The Riddler has spread here and Riddler Trophies that you can start searching. We are accustomed in such kind of games that if you have extras, although not often yields results. In Batman: Arkham Asylum wel. In Batman: Arkham Asylum is. Besides the Trophies The Riddler has also invented puzzles that you're allowed to solve.. Based on these riddles must you can figure out what you should do a scan (hold L2).
TThe Riddler will almost always comment if you've found something. Although limited to the following comments how stupid you do not have, not how great he is or how long it has not lasted, before you found out what the mystery was. Juist hier viel ons wat op. Exactly what we came here. There is a lot spoken by the voice actors. We have our play session might only twice heard a particular sentence for the second time was used. The Joker also goes by the constant intercom and that's really never the same and always hilarious. Besides the Trophies, secret maps and chattering teeth that you can collect and destroy, you can record tapes from some bad guys find out the Batman comics.
This must also find and Sleuth. They are extras, but very nice. For example, you hear some conversations between the psychiatrist and The Joker. Also include The Riddler and Harley Quinn can hear the conversations. They are not only fun, but they also say more about the story behind the characters.Besides the tapes can also (you can find so many different things in Batman Arkham Asylum) with one stone beetle find out. The Arkham Chronicles. Why this name? If you have found them the story of the founder of Arkham Asylum hearing. He tells how it all started and what he experienced when he was doing.
Yet we have a few downsides to this game. So the bosses are very mild. The best had been less superficial. The bosses were maybe five years ago groundbreaking, but are now very overtakes. Also the game is not very difficult to call. In many fights with the inmates is a good vigilance is required, but then you also if you give enough punches and countered. The fighting itself may indeed be repetitive, but luckily you can in certain rooms in true Batman style you're going to attack enemies. Throw the Gargoyles (Gargoyles) ensures that Batman is invisible to the criminals and the many gadgets allows the player to make a truly many different ways to proceed.
When enough challenges from the Riddler has settled, we can climb the Challenge mode. Here you can fight against hordes of criminals just as quiet as possible a few criminals knock out. While doing this you can complete three challenges. Example of a gargoyle hanging criminals (by means of an inverted take down) or by using your explosives. If you do this you earn points on the natural world leaderboards appear. There are sixteen Challenges to unlock during the Story mode. If you have found enough Riddler Trophies unlock your Character biographies of Character Trophies. The biographies can be read and 3D Character Trophies are just the characters that you can see below (Harley Quinn has a very sexy package to ...).
We almost forget one important aspect in the game: the Detective Mode. When this mode is activated, with a Batman type X-ray view of the world bad guys easily (through walls) in one spot and see if a particular instant wall weak enough to blow. You know this only too well the many trailers and wonder whether you throughout the game by this view will not only play, but falling into giant. Sometimes you into the game follow a certain track, the time of the CSI game, but this is purely for atmosphere and is not profound All in all a very useful tool for the friend who bats dierendag extra bats in the sun sets.
Batman has a lot in terms of extras to offer. It is deep, interesting and fun to explore them all. The basic gameplay is nice, but interesting enough to the many hours to maintain. . You do the long game, even once an asset, but there is people backtracking in the game. Only every time, when you enter a certain place, it is totally different. Some characters make for a very pleasant change and the story is fascinating rete. Graphics are impressive. The Unreal Engine is very good use of animations and Batman are also high (ragdolls never get weird poses). . His cape flies great the whole game and certainly at times when we may float a bit, this is very cool. The game provides a very good feeling Batman and The Joker is super well reflected in the game. People who swear by Heath Ledger, The Joker also does justice to his role.
What can we say? There is much in the game is good it really is a super game. It has become a sleeper hit that nobody saw coming. The AI is good, the battles are not as boring as Assassin's Creed and working with as you take down a criminal, the other does not really wait. The many unlockables are fun to find, the environments are amazing (but wait until you come to the Penitentiary!), The recorded voices are great and the characters are fantastic shape. Anyone slightly familiar with the comics here will have a feast.Gamers who are not fans of Batman will also be pure enjoyment from the game can get. The game offers a lot and is a good warmup for the grand Assassin's Creed 2, because it is more modern. We can only recommend everyone to go get this game directly to the local game farm, because everything is just entertaining in this game!
- Extra's fascinatin
- Good story.
- Nice graphics.
- No Robin in the game.
- Play nice.
- Gadgets are bold.
- Great atmosphere
- Overtakes his bosses.
- Riddler maps are very easy quest.
- Battles are slightly monotonous.
Sunday, July 2, 2000
Playstation 3 - Ratchet & Clank Future: A Crack in Time
Ratchet & Clank Future: A Crack In Time is a great conclusion to the series, but the beautiful part about it is that you can play it without having played any of the other games before it. When you first pop in the disc you're greeted with a short movie that explains all of the events leading up to this game. Once that's over, you're up to speed and ready to roll.
The story is quite interesting, it's loaded with laugh-out-loud humor, and the characters are voiced to perfection. This rivals any of the Hollywood CGI movies that have come out in recent memory in terms of animation, story, humor, and the acting performances.
The game is loaded with variety. As Ratchet, you'll be flying around in your spaceship, in kind of an open-world setting, where you can visit various planets and moons in each space sector and accomplish side-tasks. The moons are spherical and come in two really fun varieties: platforming segments which will you remind you of Super Mario Galaxy, and shooting segments which will you remind you of Super Stardust HD. The planets are where the story actually takes place and you will explore much larger environments and meet new characters. In space, you can get into dog-fights with Dr. Nefarious' minion space-ship fighters, or you can meet up with various other space-travelers and help them with their requests. Your ship is upgradable, you just have to find little creatures called Zoni. There are 40 of them hidden throughout the game's universe, many of them are found by completing the optional moons. While roving around in your ship, there are also 4 fictitious radio stations to choose from. They all feature wonderful music of different varieties for different tastes, and DJs that will make you laugh out loud with their banter.
The weapons are ingeniously conceived, and you'll find yourself laughing when you see what some of them do. Humor is a big part of this game. But it's not all about humor. There is some serious gameplay here, too. Fun platforming, creative puzzles, RPG-like systems where your character levels up as he gains experience, granting him more hit points, and all of your weapons level-up with use, as well. Also, the weapons can be upgraded with parts that you find hidden around the universe, and some of the weapons can even be custom-painted.
Some of the best gameplay in this package comes from Clank and the new time-based puzzles. There will time-pads placed around the Clock at the Center of the Universe (the area that Clank traverses throughout the game), and you can record yourself doing things on these time-pads, then play back the action simultaneously while doing something else with your present self. In other words, you can set up recordings of past-selves to help your present-self accomplish tasks that would otherwise be impossible alone. The mechanics may remind you of a game called Braid. It's all very-well implements and often ingenious, always fun.
The game itself is rather easy to get through on the lower difficulties, it will be appropriate for children and adults alike who may not have much experience gaming. You'll get to see the whole game without much difficulty. But there are also Normal and Hard difficulties, which amp up the challenge, and seasoned gamers will find them more than sufficient to give them a fun time that's not too easy or too frustrating. This game is perfect for all-ages, it's appropriate for kids as well as adults, and I recommend it highly!
The story is quite interesting, it's loaded with laugh-out-loud humor, and the characters are voiced to perfection. This rivals any of the Hollywood CGI movies that have come out in recent memory in terms of animation, story, humor, and the acting performances.
The game is loaded with variety. As Ratchet, you'll be flying around in your spaceship, in kind of an open-world setting, where you can visit various planets and moons in each space sector and accomplish side-tasks. The moons are spherical and come in two really fun varieties: platforming segments which will you remind you of Super Mario Galaxy, and shooting segments which will you remind you of Super Stardust HD. The planets are where the story actually takes place and you will explore much larger environments and meet new characters. In space, you can get into dog-fights with Dr. Nefarious' minion space-ship fighters, or you can meet up with various other space-travelers and help them with their requests. Your ship is upgradable, you just have to find little creatures called Zoni. There are 40 of them hidden throughout the game's universe, many of them are found by completing the optional moons. While roving around in your ship, there are also 4 fictitious radio stations to choose from. They all feature wonderful music of different varieties for different tastes, and DJs that will make you laugh out loud with their banter.
The weapons are ingeniously conceived, and you'll find yourself laughing when you see what some of them do. Humor is a big part of this game. But it's not all about humor. There is some serious gameplay here, too. Fun platforming, creative puzzles, RPG-like systems where your character levels up as he gains experience, granting him more hit points, and all of your weapons level-up with use, as well. Also, the weapons can be upgraded with parts that you find hidden around the universe, and some of the weapons can even be custom-painted.
Some of the best gameplay in this package comes from Clank and the new time-based puzzles. There will time-pads placed around the Clock at the Center of the Universe (the area that Clank traverses throughout the game), and you can record yourself doing things on these time-pads, then play back the action simultaneously while doing something else with your present self. In other words, you can set up recordings of past-selves to help your present-self accomplish tasks that would otherwise be impossible alone. The mechanics may remind you of a game called Braid. It's all very-well implements and often ingenious, always fun.
The game itself is rather easy to get through on the lower difficulties, it will be appropriate for children and adults alike who may not have much experience gaming. You'll get to see the whole game without much difficulty. But there are also Normal and Hard difficulties, which amp up the challenge, and seasoned gamers will find them more than sufficient to give them a fun time that's not too easy or too frustrating. This game is perfect for all-ages, it's appropriate for kids as well as adults, and I recommend it highly!
Saturday, July 1, 2000
Playstation 3 - Uncharted 2 - Amongst Thieves
I don't quite know how to describe how great this game really is...I just sat down for 15 hours straight and couldn't put the controller down until the end of the credits. This game combines everything and anything you could ever want in a movie, a game or any entertainment experience. Uncharted 2 has incredible characters, wonderful story, some of the best acting I've ever seen (Not just the voice acting, but the actual animations of the characters, their facial expressions), everything is done so beautifully I'm absolutely speechless. Among Thieves exceeded the hype in my mind, it immerses you in this incredibly detailed and lush environment, seamlessly bouncing you back and forth from gameplay to breathtaking cinematic wonder, and most often, combines them both at the same time. Just the attention to detail is astounding. I wish I had a better vocabulary so I could give this review justice but you should just see for yourself! You will not regret this purchase one bit, the multiplayer is even fun! If you own a PS3 and don't have this game, then you should sell your PS3.
Tuesday, June 20, 2000
Super Mario 3D Land - 9.5
I'll begin by saying that this game has exceeded my expectations. Upon watching online videos, I figured this would be a watered-down Mario Galaxy title, but boy, was I wrong! The videos DO NOT do the game justice. I didn't think Nintendo would have been able to do it, but this is by far the first Mario game in a long time that has retained the uniqueness and charm of the series as I remember it on the NES. New Super Mario Bros. Wii came really close, but Super Mario 3D Land does it for me.
~ First, the power-ups:
The Tanooki suit's revival in this game is genius. You can hover with Mario's tail for a while and tail-strike enemies just as you can in Super Mario Bros. 3. I'm a little bummed you can't actually fly this time around, but I'm guessing it wouldn't have worked as well in this title anyway. Fire Mario feels great, too. I haven't played far enough into the game to obtain the Boomerang Bros. suit or Statue suit, but I'm sure they will be awesome too based on what I've seen thus far.
~ Second, the levels:
While at first I thought the levels in this game seemed vacuous and dull and too similar to the levels in the Galaxy series based on online videos I've seen, my first hands-on experience with this game proved my initial thoughts to be WAY incorrect. The level designs are brilliant. The designers have packed so many obstacles, enemies, warp pipes, music note blocks, and hidden areas into the levels that the game stays exciting throughout. Also, the levels are not too long since you are timed. Thus, you can get through a level in a few minutes, but if you need more time there are stopwatches you can collect along the way to add valuable seconds to your overall time limit for the level. These come in handy if you want to do some exploring for the three hidden coins in each level. If you're like me and occasionally grow tired of some of the longer levels from Galaxy, then you'll be happy with the quickness yet depth of the levels in 3D Land. The levels look AND feel like actual Mario levels in their design. To top it all off, you'll recognize remakes of some classic Super Mario Bros. 3 tunes, as well!
~ Third, the controls:
Mario's signature moves are back: crouch, backflip, long jump, side somersault, wall jump, and ground pound. There is also a new move - the roll - in which Mario can roll forward from the crouching position. The only move that hasn't been brought back is the triple jump, but I don't feel as though it would've been useful in this style of Mario game anyway. The moves are easy to execute with the layout of the 3DS's thumbstick and buttons. Furthermore, controlling Mario feels completely natural. For instance, running with Y and tail-striking enemies along the way is both easy and fun to do! As I mentioned earlier, the Tanooki suit's signature moves are back, too, such as hovering and tail-striking, both of which feel great.
~ Fourth, the graphics and the 3D:
The graphics in this game are on par with, if not better than, the graphics in the Galaxy series. Mario, the enemies, and the levels all look stunning. The 3D effect in the game looks stunning, too, and it's awesome to see Mario in full 3D for the first time. The 3D also helps with depth perception, and, as anyone can guess, the ability to see in 3D certainly comes in handy for a platforming title such as Mario in which you have to make perfectly executed jumps. Also, in addition to the 3D slider bar, you can also control the 3D effect by choosing from two 3D options while playing that will provide either a shallower or deeper depth of field, so the 3D is more customizable in this 3DS game than in any other.
FINAL THOUGHTS
If you don't own a 3DS yet but want one, then this is the time to get it. Super Mario 3D Land, maybe aside from Zelda: OoT or Star Fox 64 (both of which are remakes, anyway), is the best original game on the 3DS, hands-down, and it combines everything gamers adore from Super Mario Bros 1 and 3, and Super Mario 64. From the controls to the level design, every aspect of this game retains the fun and charm of the original NES Mario titles that I remember so fondly but have not seen in any Mario title in recent years.
~ First, the power-ups:
The Tanooki suit's revival in this game is genius. You can hover with Mario's tail for a while and tail-strike enemies just as you can in Super Mario Bros. 3. I'm a little bummed you can't actually fly this time around, but I'm guessing it wouldn't have worked as well in this title anyway. Fire Mario feels great, too. I haven't played far enough into the game to obtain the Boomerang Bros. suit or Statue suit, but I'm sure they will be awesome too based on what I've seen thus far.
~ Second, the levels:
While at first I thought the levels in this game seemed vacuous and dull and too similar to the levels in the Galaxy series based on online videos I've seen, my first hands-on experience with this game proved my initial thoughts to be WAY incorrect. The level designs are brilliant. The designers have packed so many obstacles, enemies, warp pipes, music note blocks, and hidden areas into the levels that the game stays exciting throughout. Also, the levels are not too long since you are timed. Thus, you can get through a level in a few minutes, but if you need more time there are stopwatches you can collect along the way to add valuable seconds to your overall time limit for the level. These come in handy if you want to do some exploring for the three hidden coins in each level. If you're like me and occasionally grow tired of some of the longer levels from Galaxy, then you'll be happy with the quickness yet depth of the levels in 3D Land. The levels look AND feel like actual Mario levels in their design. To top it all off, you'll recognize remakes of some classic Super Mario Bros. 3 tunes, as well!
~ Third, the controls:
Mario's signature moves are back: crouch, backflip, long jump, side somersault, wall jump, and ground pound. There is also a new move - the roll - in which Mario can roll forward from the crouching position. The only move that hasn't been brought back is the triple jump, but I don't feel as though it would've been useful in this style of Mario game anyway. The moves are easy to execute with the layout of the 3DS's thumbstick and buttons. Furthermore, controlling Mario feels completely natural. For instance, running with Y and tail-striking enemies along the way is both easy and fun to do! As I mentioned earlier, the Tanooki suit's signature moves are back, too, such as hovering and tail-striking, both of which feel great.
~ Fourth, the graphics and the 3D:
The graphics in this game are on par with, if not better than, the graphics in the Galaxy series. Mario, the enemies, and the levels all look stunning. The 3D effect in the game looks stunning, too, and it's awesome to see Mario in full 3D for the first time. The 3D also helps with depth perception, and, as anyone can guess, the ability to see in 3D certainly comes in handy for a platforming title such as Mario in which you have to make perfectly executed jumps. Also, in addition to the 3D slider bar, you can also control the 3D effect by choosing from two 3D options while playing that will provide either a shallower or deeper depth of field, so the 3D is more customizable in this 3DS game than in any other.
FINAL THOUGHTS
If you don't own a 3DS yet but want one, then this is the time to get it. Super Mario 3D Land, maybe aside from Zelda: OoT or Star Fox 64 (both of which are remakes, anyway), is the best original game on the 3DS, hands-down, and it combines everything gamers adore from Super Mario Bros 1 and 3, and Super Mario 64. From the controls to the level design, every aspect of this game retains the fun and charm of the original NES Mario titles that I remember so fondly but have not seen in any Mario title in recent years.
Saturday, April 1, 2000
Allstate H.R. managers
In this assignment, after viewing the video and reading MS-Word document on Allstate, I will address the following questions: 1..) How do Allstate H.R. managers contribute to the firm’s overall competitive strategy; 2.) Why a focus on work-family life is so important in today’s companies? 3.) How I would characterize the morale of Allstate and what factors would contribute to it? 4.) Describe how the Allstate succeeds or fails in satisfying each of the five needs outline in Maslow’s hierarchy.
Allstate HR managers contribute to the firm’s overall completive strategy in the following ways.
1.) Allstate’s use of a diverse employee work force produces a broader range of thoughts, and ideas which can be utilize to develop the best possible products and services. Also having a diversified workforce ensures that the company can meet the customer’s cultural expectations and needs; thereby, the employee could possibly respond better to the customer and could have better understanding of the needs of a particular culture. Allstate sees that the demographic is changing and that their workforce reflects the customer needs so they can have the skills and services to deal with customers effectively in the way the customers want to be serviced. [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L. (2007)] [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L., flash, 2007] [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L., word doc, 2007] [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L., pg 300, 304, 2007]
2.) Allstate also promotes regular training for their employees, which is provided through the means of workshops, in-house education, coaching, online sessions, and promoting interpersonal leadership issues, and customer service education. They also promote and support career planning, learning opportunities and skill development. [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L. (2007)] [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L., flash, 2007] [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L., word doc, 2007] [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L., pg 300, 304, 2007]
3.) Allstate also provides good benefits to the employees that include health insurance, pension plan, and profit sharing with additional benefits like flexible work schedules, and educational support in response to a changing labor market. [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L. (2007)] [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L., flash, 2007] [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L., word doc, 2007] [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L., pg 300, 304, 2007 ]
The most important factor for today's companies is work-family life and in the following paragraph, I will explain why this is such. Our culture is constantly changing and diversifying; and many companies see the need to stay ahead of the curve by changing their work force and environment. Many workers today believe family life is just as important as their career; therefore, companies have taken a holistic approach by incorporating flexibility in the employee’s normal work week just as Allstate has done. This would include: flexible start times, compressed work weeks and job sharing. By doing this, you’re providing the employee with more opportunity to self fulfill their personal needs along with their careers. For the company, it provides a reduction in employee turnover, and dissatisfaction while producing more productivity and employee satisfaction. Companies that promote this concept are usually non-manufacturing where individuals are working mostly independently verses manufacturing where employees must work as a team. [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L. (2007)] [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L., flash, 2007] [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L., word doc, 2007] [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L., pg 300, 304, 2007 ]
I believe the morale of working for Allstate is pretty high. They received recognition from Forbes, Fortune, Essence, Working Mother, etc. Allstate has competitive pay, interesting and meaningful work, career advancement, flexibility of work hours, employees are diversified who are providing diversified ideas for the company and finally Allstate has a great benefit package molded to the individual employee’s needs. Employees need the balance between work and family. The Allstate employees’ satisfaction is monitored and maintained annually. This is done by an annual employee satisfaction evaluation which involves a number of strategic questions provided by the company; whereby, the evaluation in itself gives a better picture on how the company performs or could improve, while at the same time, the company is also trying to meet the needs of the individual employee. Finally, the employee has the opportunity to develop skills in different departments or to advance in the company. This opportunity is also encouraged and supported by Allstate Company. Per video quotes, “To keep a workforce happy, they must train the workforce to keep the skills sharp through online classes, class facilities, coaching, and outside workshops for technical abilities, interpersonal communication, leadership skill sets, and customer experience training.” “Allstate has a culture that expects people to seek opportunity or broaden their skill sets.” Allstate has a cafeteria plan profit sharing, pension plan, health benefits, work/family benefits, wellness seminars, commute options, childcare, and disability plans. All of the information I have mentioned above has to result into a positive employee attitude. The company has put great emphasis on keeping the employee happy. [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L. (2007)] [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L., flash, 2007] [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L., word doc, 2007] [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L., pg 300, 304, 2007] [Allstate, PDF, 2007 ]
My outline on how the Allstate’s employees succeed in Maslow's hierarchy of needs is stated below split up in five paragraphs from the basic to the highest order of needs. However, I wish to point out at this time, that I believe that each individual has different needs to be satisfied in order to progress; therefore, their approach on the Maslow hierarchy of needs may be chronologically different then stated below.
Physiological needs: Allstate has competitive salaries (that are sufficient to maintain one’s life style), flexible hours (promotes employees time for adequate rest periods, lunch breaks, etc). I can only assume by looking at the video that the employee’s work environment looks well lit with chairs and desks at adequate comfort levels, overall the working environment looks pleasant and comfortable. [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L. (2007)] [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L., flash, 2007] [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L., word doc, 2007] [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L., pg 300, 304, 2007]
Safety needs: Allstate provides safe working environment, good retirement benefits. (cafeteria plan), child care at the facility for working moms and possibly dads, program for domestic violence; whereby, the employee may be eligible to receive funds to better themselves.
Social needs: Again, flexible hours provide time between work and family, employee diversification provides cultural enrichment to the employees, as well for the company. Also, Allstate provides health and wellness training along with a fitness center which in itself provides socialization with other employees. [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L. (2007)] [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L., flash, 2007] [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L., word doc, 2007] [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L., pg 300, 304, 2007]
Esteem needs: Employee satisfaction survey is done yearly. Also the company encourages employees’ communication with upper management. The company’s goal is for the employee to be satisfied and feel good about working for Allstate. [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L. (2007)] [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L., flash, 2007] [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L., word doc, 2007] [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L., pg 300, 304, 2007]
Self Actualization needs: Each employee has the opportunity to grow and develop in Allstate. The company uses training as a big part for career advancement. Allstate offers career planning learning opportunities and skill development for their employees; whereby, the company encourages their employees to broaden their skills by rotating to different areas of the business and take advantage of learning opportunities offered to them. [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L. (2007)] [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L., flash, 2007] [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L., word doc, 2007] [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L., pg 270, 300, 304, 2007]
By viewing Allstate video and reading the Microsoft Word document, I feel the company has made great efforts and strides in their ability to not only attract future employees, but emphasizing the need to maintain employees’ satisfaction while working at the company. By providing diversification in their workforce, they have also tapped the diversification of their customers. I believe this in itself is a very smart business strategy. Allstate also provides a well rounded benefit package and flexible hours for their employees, whom may find this benefit package beneficial to their lifestyle. Annual employee survey, and encouraging employees to communicate with management, also could raise the employee satisfaction index. I feel Allstate has not only met, but also exceeded the five needs outlined for their employees. Working for this company could be inviting for people whose careers are moving in that general direction. It’s a competitive world and Allstate seems to be doing a good job maintaining their competitive role. [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L. (2007)] [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L., flash, 2007] [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L., word doc, 2007] [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L., pg 300, 304, 2007 ]
References
Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L. (2007). Allstate Employees Are in Good Hand [Video case]. In Contemporary Business (12th ed.) (Online under Lector Notes). Mason, OH: Thomson-Southwestern.
(2007). Boone & Kurtz Video Case Study. [Data File: MS-Word Doc] Retrieved August 24, 2008. From http://content.learntoday.info/B136/site/Media/Week_07_Video_Case_Transcript.doc
Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L. (2007). Maslow Hierarchy of Needs. In Contemporary Business (12th ed.) (pg. 304). Mason, OH: Thomson-Southwestern.
Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L. (2007). Flexible Work. In Contemporary Business (12th ed.) (pg. 300). Mason, OH: Thomson-Southwestern.
Anonymous author. (June 2007). Diversity brochure.[Data File: PDF pg 10]
Retrieved August 24, 2008, from Allstate website:
http://www.allstate.com/content/refresh-attachments/diversity_brochure.pdf
Allstate HR managers contribute to the firm’s overall completive strategy in the following ways.
1.) Allstate’s use of a diverse employee work force produces a broader range of thoughts, and ideas which can be utilize to develop the best possible products and services. Also having a diversified workforce ensures that the company can meet the customer’s cultural expectations and needs; thereby, the employee could possibly respond better to the customer and could have better understanding of the needs of a particular culture. Allstate sees that the demographic is changing and that their workforce reflects the customer needs so they can have the skills and services to deal with customers effectively in the way the customers want to be serviced. [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L. (2007)] [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L., flash, 2007] [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L., word doc, 2007] [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L., pg 300, 304, 2007]
2.) Allstate also promotes regular training for their employees, which is provided through the means of workshops, in-house education, coaching, online sessions, and promoting interpersonal leadership issues, and customer service education. They also promote and support career planning, learning opportunities and skill development. [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L. (2007)] [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L., flash, 2007] [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L., word doc, 2007] [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L., pg 300, 304, 2007]
3.) Allstate also provides good benefits to the employees that include health insurance, pension plan, and profit sharing with additional benefits like flexible work schedules, and educational support in response to a changing labor market. [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L. (2007)] [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L., flash, 2007] [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L., word doc, 2007] [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L., pg 300, 304, 2007 ]
The most important factor for today's companies is work-family life and in the following paragraph, I will explain why this is such. Our culture is constantly changing and diversifying; and many companies see the need to stay ahead of the curve by changing their work force and environment. Many workers today believe family life is just as important as their career; therefore, companies have taken a holistic approach by incorporating flexibility in the employee’s normal work week just as Allstate has done. This would include: flexible start times, compressed work weeks and job sharing. By doing this, you’re providing the employee with more opportunity to self fulfill their personal needs along with their careers. For the company, it provides a reduction in employee turnover, and dissatisfaction while producing more productivity and employee satisfaction. Companies that promote this concept are usually non-manufacturing where individuals are working mostly independently verses manufacturing where employees must work as a team. [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L. (2007)] [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L., flash, 2007] [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L., word doc, 2007] [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L., pg 300, 304, 2007 ]
I believe the morale of working for Allstate is pretty high. They received recognition from Forbes, Fortune, Essence, Working Mother, etc. Allstate has competitive pay, interesting and meaningful work, career advancement, flexibility of work hours, employees are diversified who are providing diversified ideas for the company and finally Allstate has a great benefit package molded to the individual employee’s needs. Employees need the balance between work and family. The Allstate employees’ satisfaction is monitored and maintained annually. This is done by an annual employee satisfaction evaluation which involves a number of strategic questions provided by the company; whereby, the evaluation in itself gives a better picture on how the company performs or could improve, while at the same time, the company is also trying to meet the needs of the individual employee. Finally, the employee has the opportunity to develop skills in different departments or to advance in the company. This opportunity is also encouraged and supported by Allstate Company. Per video quotes, “To keep a workforce happy, they must train the workforce to keep the skills sharp through online classes, class facilities, coaching, and outside workshops for technical abilities, interpersonal communication, leadership skill sets, and customer experience training.” “Allstate has a culture that expects people to seek opportunity or broaden their skill sets.” Allstate has a cafeteria plan profit sharing, pension plan, health benefits, work/family benefits, wellness seminars, commute options, childcare, and disability plans. All of the information I have mentioned above has to result into a positive employee attitude. The company has put great emphasis on keeping the employee happy. [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L. (2007)] [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L., flash, 2007] [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L., word doc, 2007] [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L., pg 300, 304, 2007] [Allstate, PDF, 2007 ]
My outline on how the Allstate’s employees succeed in Maslow's hierarchy of needs is stated below split up in five paragraphs from the basic to the highest order of needs. However, I wish to point out at this time, that I believe that each individual has different needs to be satisfied in order to progress; therefore, their approach on the Maslow hierarchy of needs may be chronologically different then stated below.
Physiological needs: Allstate has competitive salaries (that are sufficient to maintain one’s life style), flexible hours (promotes employees time for adequate rest periods, lunch breaks, etc). I can only assume by looking at the video that the employee’s work environment looks well lit with chairs and desks at adequate comfort levels, overall the working environment looks pleasant and comfortable. [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L. (2007)] [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L., flash, 2007] [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L., word doc, 2007] [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L., pg 300, 304, 2007]
Safety needs: Allstate provides safe working environment, good retirement benefits. (cafeteria plan), child care at the facility for working moms and possibly dads, program for domestic violence; whereby, the employee may be eligible to receive funds to better themselves.
Social needs: Again, flexible hours provide time between work and family, employee diversification provides cultural enrichment to the employees, as well for the company. Also, Allstate provides health and wellness training along with a fitness center which in itself provides socialization with other employees. [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L. (2007)] [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L., flash, 2007] [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L., word doc, 2007] [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L., pg 300, 304, 2007]
Esteem needs: Employee satisfaction survey is done yearly. Also the company encourages employees’ communication with upper management. The company’s goal is for the employee to be satisfied and feel good about working for Allstate. [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L. (2007)] [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L., flash, 2007] [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L., word doc, 2007] [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L., pg 300, 304, 2007]
Self Actualization needs: Each employee has the opportunity to grow and develop in Allstate. The company uses training as a big part for career advancement. Allstate offers career planning learning opportunities and skill development for their employees; whereby, the company encourages their employees to broaden their skills by rotating to different areas of the business and take advantage of learning opportunities offered to them. [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L. (2007)] [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L., flash, 2007] [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L., word doc, 2007] [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L., pg 270, 300, 304, 2007]
By viewing Allstate video and reading the Microsoft Word document, I feel the company has made great efforts and strides in their ability to not only attract future employees, but emphasizing the need to maintain employees’ satisfaction while working at the company. By providing diversification in their workforce, they have also tapped the diversification of their customers. I believe this in itself is a very smart business strategy. Allstate also provides a well rounded benefit package and flexible hours for their employees, whom may find this benefit package beneficial to their lifestyle. Annual employee survey, and encouraging employees to communicate with management, also could raise the employee satisfaction index. I feel Allstate has not only met, but also exceeded the five needs outlined for their employees. Working for this company could be inviting for people whose careers are moving in that general direction. It’s a competitive world and Allstate seems to be doing a good job maintaining their competitive role. [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L. (2007)] [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L., flash, 2007] [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L., word doc, 2007] [Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L., pg 300, 304, 2007 ]
References
Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L. (2007). Allstate Employees Are in Good Hand [Video case]. In Contemporary Business (12th ed.) (Online under Lector Notes). Mason, OH: Thomson-Southwestern.
(2007). Boone & Kurtz Video Case Study. [Data File: MS-Word Doc] Retrieved August 24, 2008. From http://content.learntoday.info/B136/site/Media/Week_07_Video_Case_Transcript.doc
Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L. (2007). Maslow Hierarchy of Needs. In Contemporary Business (12th ed.) (pg. 304). Mason, OH: Thomson-Southwestern.
Boone, L. E. & Kurtz, D. L. (2007). Flexible Work. In Contemporary Business (12th ed.) (pg. 300). Mason, OH: Thomson-Southwestern.
Anonymous author. (June 2007). Diversity brochure.[Data File: PDF pg 10]
Retrieved August 24, 2008, from Allstate website:
http://www.allstate.com/content/refresh-attachments/diversity_brochure.pdf
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