Thursday, November 29, 2001

All I want for Christmas

Gift: i-Cybie Robotic Dog
Ages: 10 and up
Gift description: Ever since MTV placed Sony’s robotic dog in last year’s “Real World New Orleans,” numerous companies have adopted the idea and improved on it. Now, i-Cybie is the newest addition to the runt pile of robotic dogs. The dog uses 16 separate motors to control hundreds of actions with his moveable head, tail, legs and mouth. Along with the constant movement of this toy, i-Cybie is also equipped with “Advanced Voice Recognition Technology,” which in short means it understands commands. The only bad thing is that the dog uses 12-volt batteries, which could get expensive. But a dog that does what it is told, doesn’t need to be house-trained and doesn’t put a dent in your budget for food is definitely worth it. Hopefully the TCU administration won’t add i-Cybie to the banned pets list.
Where and How Much: Walmart $169.95

Gift: Game
Boy Advance
Ages: 13 and up
Gift description: Our little Game Boy is all grown up. Ever since the first Game Boy’s introduction into society about 10 years ago we’ve seen the item go through many changes: Mini Game Boy, Game Boy Color, and now Game Boy Advance. With detailed graphics and a symphony style music selection, Game Boy Advance sports all the qualities of a mature handheld video game. Also, the game can be hooked to three other systems to play against each other. And just when you thought the added bonuses wouldn’t end, it can also be used as a controller for Nintendo’s other new invention, GameCube. Using only two AA batteries and lasting for weeks at a time, Game Boy Advance makes other handhelds look like TV remote controls.
Where and how much: Best Buy $99.95

Gift: Nintendo GameCube
Ages: 13 and up
Gift description: Is there even a description needed for the GameCube? This much anticipated game system hit stores recently, going head-to-head with its competitor, the Microsoft XBox. The GameCube sports a basic look that lives up to its name. The console is relatively small compared to other systems, and four players are allowed to play at once. Along with state-of-the-art graphics, the GameCube has a little edge over its competition with the outrageous amount of games that are available to use on the system.
Where and how much: Best Buy $199

Gift: Microsoft XBox
Ages: 13 and up
Gift description: Along with the GameCube, the XBox is another one of the long-anticipated video game systems. Like its competitor, the XBox has digitally advanced graphics and a new look that is attracting consumers everywhere. The console is in the shape of an X, as well as the controllers. Unlike the GameCube, the XBox can play DVDs as well. Although the XBox does not have as many games available as the GameCube, its graphics are more advanced than its competition.
Where and how much: Best Buy $299

Gift: Polaroid I-Zone Convertible Camera and
Fortune Film (sold separately)
Ages: 10 and up
Gift description: Polaroid’s instant film camera takes on a new form this season with the newest addition to the Polaroid family, the Convertible Camera. The I-Zone camera comes with two interchangeable faceplates that come in an array of different colors, all fitting to your mood and style. The camera works great in the outdoors and has a 2- to 8-foot shooting range. It is also equipped with a focus-free flash and selectable film advance. The Fortune Film is another invention from the Polaroid minds. After you snap a picture and pull out your developing picture, a fortune appears like the usual fortune of something good coming your way or the sarcastic “finally, a version of you that doesn’t talk.” Let’s just hope that Polaroid doesn’t go overboard with a plaid cover or scratch and sniff film — oh wait, that’s next year’s idea.
Where and how much: Target $23.99