Ahead of the game

A senior executive of Electronic Arts – one of the world's most successful gaming software companies, has called for the development of an open standard gaming platform. He has also said that in the future, gaming will be done over a fast broadband network as opposed to a dedicated gaming console such as the Xbox, Nintendo Wii or the Playstation. Different consoles that require individually tailored software makes life harder for developers and consumers, he said.

Widely used in Hong Kong, the Octopus card is used for purchases on public transport, in convenience stores, fast food restaurants and other places where purchases can be made.

In addition it's also used for office and residential premises access control. Each Octopus card looks like a basic credit card but has a built-in microchip containing an "electronic purse" and other applications that records transaction details.

To use the card, owners simply wave the card over a reader and the information or financial transaction is completed automatically.

Based on growing scientific evidence, certain types of game-playing is increasingly being viewed as callisthenics for the brain that can especially be useful for seniors at risk of memory loss, dementia and various vision problems. Makers of computer-based and online programs aimed at the elderly have been growing, while Japanese giant Nintendo has sold over 8.6 million copies, including 1.4 million in the United States, of its Brain Age programs for its DS game console.

Nintendo says it makes no specific health claims for Brain Age games, but that the programs that include tasks in memory, math, reading and even music, are challenging exercises to get users' brains pumping. The company says the games are designed to stimulate the brain, especially the prefrontal cortex, which helps apply stored knowledge to everyday skills.

"The games help you focus and improve your memory skills," says Lynn Lipton, a 67-year-old grandmother from New York, who was given a console and games by Nintendo after participating in the company's "coolest grandparent" contest.