Nuggets: A Linux first and a chilly rodent...
Nuggets is a daily update on the latest software and hardware releases provided by our very own gadget man, Mr Justin Pearse. At the end of the month we will provide a roundup of our favourites which you could win in our monthly Nuggets competition.
Heard a rumour about a plan for a new gadget or software? Seen a device on your travels you'd like to know more about? Tell 'Nuggets' and we'll get you the facts.
First shrink-wrapped Linux game... or not?
The first shrink-wrapped, playable-out-of-the-box Linux game is almost ready for distribution (although if you tune into the Linux sites there's a debate raging with some claiming `Abuse' was the first...). The game, called BFRIS, is a 3D OpenGL-based multi-player space combat game with a Win32 port. No one seems to know what BFRIS stands for, although Big F***ing Rockets In Space has been graciously suggested.
The game will ship in jewel boxes to keep costs down and will be available soon from www.reg.net for $40 (£24), delivered to your door. There were reports of poor game-play in early beta versions, although most Linux lovers will probably want to get one even if it's just to hang it on the wall.
BFRIS, which is not open source, will also run on Windows, including NT, and needs a Voodoo Graphics, Voodoo Rush or Voodoo2 card.
The Ice Mouse cometh
The stream of USB products entering the market is rapidly becoming a flood. A little fish in this pond is Arowana's new USB Ice Mouse, part of their expanding range of USB accessories. This is just your bog standard mouse, and even using words to describe it like `opto-mechanical construction' and `positioning accuracy of 420dpi' doesn't really make it sound exciting. However if you're determined to become fully USB-ed up then I'll guess you'll want one.
Available now for £14.99 + VAT.