However, you know that I will as more developments arise!

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Wow. Just…wow.

I’m an Eagle Scout, a parent, and a gamer, but…wow.

I never thought that I’d see the day that Scouting would award badges for video games. I guess I was born to young. For those of you who don’t believe me, point your browser HERE to see the official requirements posted on the official BSA site. Unlike the old Pioneering badge that I earned at summer camp almost 30 years ago which required that you demonstrate multiple ways to make FIRE (how fun is that!), these awards focuses more on the responsibilities associated with gaming as in proper scheduling, understanding the ESRB, and comparing prices at different stores.

Still, there are some fun requirements and there is nothing wrong with encouraging responsible gaming behavior. Although, I think my favorite part of this is that the controller on the belt loop (we used to call those “skill awards”) and the academics pin reminds me a little of the old Nintendo Virtual-Boy!

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The ESRB (Entertainment Software Rating Board) has released a free app for the iPhone and iPod touch (App Store link).

With this handy app you can search their for rating summaries to find out what content is in the videogame you (or your child) are interested in.

So while your at the local department store and Junior asks to buy Ultra Mega Battle 3000 you can quickly find out if it’s an age appropriate game.

Here’s the PSA the ESRB has produced.

This is a great tool to add to the super-parent utility belt. Like Batman you should always be prepared.

If you try out the app and have anything to add please let us know!

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Mickey Mouse, though the corporate identity of Disney, has been lacking a little personality in the last decade or two. A new title coming out for the Wii looks to breathe some life back into the iconic mouse. Epic Mickey has the makings of an excellent action/adventure/platformer that will be kid-friendly as well as interesting for adults.

The premise Epic Mickey is based in Walt’s animation history. Before Mickey, there was Oswald the Lucky Rabbit. Oswald was Walt’s original animated lead character, but he was owned by Universal. When they pressured him, he abandoned the intellectual property with them, created a new character (Mickey) and started his own studio. This game allows the user to experience Mickey’s realization of his past and enter Oswald’s world.

The primary play mechanic allows the player to either paint the world with the brush or use paint thinner to erase parts of it away. This provides a perfect opportunity to use the Wiimote to interact with the environment. Granting an RPG element to the experience, the world treats Mickey differently depending on which approach he uses. Furthermore, his appearance even changes depending on which tool he uses more – paint or thinner.

I have to admit that this title looks promising enough for this gamer to consider acquiring a Wii for the family. There are plenty of other titles for justification, but there’s something about this one that has really piqued my interest.

The expected release date for Epic Mickey is Fall of 2010. In the meantime, we will keep you posted as more becomes available.

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‘Tis the day after Thanksgiving and the official holiday shopping season has begun. There are a number of good deals to be found including the following at your local GameStop:

Buy 2 get 1 free (Valid in store or online 11/25/09 – 11/29/09)

Buy any two used games or accessories and get the third for free.

Pre-Owned Console Deals (Valid in store or online 11/27/09 – 12/3/09)

GBA SP – $29.99

Original Nintendo DS – $49.99

DS Lite – $59.99

Original PSP – $79.99

Original PlayStation 2 – $39.99

PS2 Slim – $49.99

And other assorted bargains HERE.

Considering that we’re all trying to do our best to make ends meet, a used game or system is a great way to get more for your gaming dollar. One tip: GameStop online does not guarantee an original case or instruction manual for pre-owned games. However, if you go to your local stores, you can verify on-the-spot if the game appears to be “gift worthy.”

Also, GameStop is not the only option for purchasing used games or systems. Most areas have local mom-n-pop shops that offer similar merchandise. Many feel that their money is better served supporting locally-owned stores as opposed to national chains.

Check your local listings for vendors in your own neighborhood and good luck from the Frugal Gamer!

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Though fellow PSP/PS3 owners in Japan have enjoyed this application for months now, it was released yesterday via the PlayStation store for the U.S. This is a utility that allows a PSP owner who has a PS3 to use the console as a bridge to other PS3/PSP owners. This then allows such gamers to play any AdHoc PSP title through the internet with others. In essence, it converts any old AdHoc title into an infrastructure networked game in the privacy of your own home.

The video above demonstrates the utility in action. For more information, point your browser to Sony’s U.S. PlayStation Blog.

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