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Family Video Gaming from Chris Jones Gaming

Creating a Healthy and Fun Family Video Gaming Experience


In today’s digital age, This doesn’t mean merely supervising screen time but actively engaging with the gaming world and providing guidance. Here are some tips from Chris Jones Gaming to get you started. 

Encourage Responsible Gaming

Setting clear guidelines for screen time and game content is essential to cultivate a responsible gaming environment. Not all games are suitable for all age groups, so review game ratings and content before they become part of your family’s library. Additionally, establish a balance between gaming and other activities like outdoor play, reading, and family time. This prevents excessive screen use and helps maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Encourage Communication

Open communication forms the backbone of a safe and enjoyable gaming environment. Encourage your children to share their gaming experiences, interests, and concerns. This open dialogue enables you to understand what they’re encountering in the virtual world and provides a platform to discuss the potential negative aspects, such as cyberbullying or inappropriate content.

Explore Diverse Game Genres

Video games are as diverse as books, movies, and music. Introduce your family to a wide array of game genres, from puzzles and adventures to educational and creative games. This broadens horizons, promotes diverse interests and skills, and ensures the gaming experience remains fresh and engaging.

Develop Problem-Solving Skills

In addition to being a source of entertainment, games can be fantastic tools for cognitive development. Choose games that challenge your children’s minds and promote problem-solving abilities. Puzzles, strategy, and adventure games not only provide fun but also contribute to improving critical thinking and decision-making skills.

Use Gaming as a Reward

To maintain a healthy relationship with gaming, use it as a treat or incentive for completing responsibilities. Whether homework, chores, or good behavior, gaming can be an effective motivational tool. This approach reinforces positive behavior while ensuring that gaming does not overshadow other essential aspects of life.

Highlight the Benefits of Gaming

While it’s easy to dwell on potential negatives, it’s equally important to recognize the benefits that gaming offers. Video games can improve decision-making skills, reflexes, and hand-eye coordination. They can even offer educational value, teaching everything from history and geography to complex scientific concepts, all in an engaging and interactive manner.

Design a Multi-Functional Gaming Room

Creating a dedicated gaming and entertainment space in your home is a fantastic way to enhance the gaming experience. This could be a multi-functional room that can also serve as a family movie theater or a chill-out zone. A dedicated gaming room also creates a specific place for electronics, making it easier to monitor usage and maintain a tidy home.

Track Home Improvements

If you do opt for a dedicated gaming room, keep a record of any enhancements you make. This not only helps in maintaining the room but can also add value to your home. Future potential buyers who are gaming enthusiasts will likely appreciate a well-designed entertainment space.

Creating a family-friendly video gaming environment can initially seem daunting, but following the above tips makes it much easier. Remember, moderation, open dialogue, and a wide variety of games can ensure that gaming becomes a positive, enriching part of your family’s life rather than a point of contention. So engage, guide, and enjoy the gaming world with your family, creating shared memories that will last a lifetime.

Chris Jones Gaming has all the gaming tips and information you’ve been looking for. Let us know if you have any questions!

Article by Micah Norris for Chris Jones Gaming

Image via Pexels

Chris Jones Gaming - The Ultimate Universe - and Chris Jones Media

Gaming Evolution

15 years ago we delivered a downloadable product that went viral, the beginning of our Gaming Evolution.

I was interviewed recently regarding that successful undertaking. A link to the interview follows..

It was dream for a long time to launch a digital marketing agency.

As early as 1993, before ‘Chris Jones Media’ existed, I was building websites for real estate agents, and had a side business with on-site computer consulting, taking care of software issues for customers in their own home.

This continued while I was involved in PC Gaming, modifying existing games, in the science fiction genre, with improved graphics, sound effects, and gameplay.

This evolved into leading a team of about 20 people on a mission to completely transform a particular PC Game into something much better than it was.

I was interviewed in March 2023 about this game modification by some fans of our ‘mod’. In this interview I talk about organizing teams, accomplishing goals and becoming sought after.

See it here:  https://lnkd.in/g5nWJf2Z

Our modification of a #startrek pc game garnered many thousands of downloads and is still downloaded to this day.

I mention my gaming days because of the challenges involved in coordinating people from around the world in different time zones and with conflicting personalities.

Along the way I developed a deep understanding of what consumers need and want, and how to communicate with them effectively.

This, coupled with being in Radio Broadcasting and Face to Face sales in various industries, led to a deep understanding of consumer pain points, and the methods to take care of them.

This is my Gaming Evolution.

Because of that, I formed Chris Jones Media. Initially I was building Websites – and later added Voice and Video Creation services, along with business advice.

Over the past year, with a few collaborations and work hiccups I came to understand true teamwork and it became apparent that my long held dream can be done: I have built a digital agency at chrisjonesmedia.com. That is my ‘Gaming Evolution’.

My experiences in the gaming industry set me up for what is happening today. As Sir Patrick Stewart said more than once, “Make It So”!

Chris Jones Gaming

Make A Game

At one point Chris Jones Gaming was considering making a game. This was about 15 years ago when we were modifying Star Trek games.

It hasn’t happened, but who is to say it won’t happen. If we were to do that, here’s a bit of what’s involved.

Making a science fiction game involves a lot of stuff, as you might know, including:

  1. Concept development: Developing the game concept, which involves creating the storyline, characters and their interaction with each other, and the setting. This is the foundation upon which the game will be built, where it starts.
  2. Game engine selection: The game engine is the software framework that is used to create the game. Popular game engines used for science fiction games include Unreal Engine, Unity, and CryEngine.
  3. Art and design: Once the game engine is selected, the next step is to create the game’s art and design elements, including 3D models, textures, animations, and user interface.
  4. Programming: The game’s mechanics, features, and interactions are created through programming, using languages such as C++, C#, and Python. I have a few people in mind for this.
  5. Sound and music: Sound and music play a crucial role in immersing players in the game’s world. Game developers must create or license appropriate sound effects and music tracks that fit the game’s theme and mood. I have someone in mind for this.
  6. Testing and debugging: As the game is being developed, it must be tested and debugged to ensure that it is functioning as intended. This involves identifying and fixing bugs, balancing gameplay mechanics, and optimizing performance. This is one of my favorite parts of the process.
  7. Distribution and marketing: Once the game is complete, it must be brought to the gamers of the world. This involves distribution channels, like digital storefronts or physical distribution, and marketing the game through various channels to attract players and fans.

To Make a Game, that is popular, involves quite a lot – and the talent needed isn’t going to work for free. Getting it done involves many different skills and areas of expertise. The author, Chris Jones, is working on all of that. I have talent in mind.

Stay tuned.

I have talked about this before -the fact that I’m bringing it up again means I have not, and will not, drop the idea. Full transparency – I’ve done nothing but think about making a game since I wrote the last article about making a game.

Make a Game - Chris Jones Gaming
Chris Jones Gaming SciFi
Eve Online

Eve Online 20th Anniversary

CCP Games Ignites EVE Online’s 20th Anniversary by Teasing New Expansion

Capsuleers can also celebrate EVE’s monumental milestone with in-game events, a special Twitch stream, and the chance to become legend as part of the EVE Monument

REYKJAVÍK, Iceland – May 2, 2023 – In honor of its landmark 20th anniversary on Saturday 6 May, 2023 CCP Games has revealed EVE Online: Viridian, the next content expansion for spacefaring MMO EVE Online. The first of two major expansions in this year of 2023, Viridian will empower players with new tools, personalization options and social-driven content to manifest the glory of their corporation. The expansion launches free for all players in June 2023, real soon!

“With Viridian, players will be given more power to shape and color New Eden,” said Bergur Finnbogason, EVE Online‘s Creative Director. “Viridian builds upon last year’s pivotal Uprising expansion by giving corporation leaders more means and methods to help their group flourish. There is no better time than the present for reconnecting with your corporation members to plan your next venture – you never know what’s on the horizon.”

EVE Online: Viridian will empower player-run corporations in more ways than ever before. From strengthening and growing their numbers to new personalisation options and an expanded toolset, corporation leaders will be able to create meaningful content, manage and efficiently train new recruits, and lead their corporation to collective glory.    

Ahead of the expansion, Capsuleers will find a wealth of activities to enjoy in and outside of the game in May, including Capsuleer Day celebrations, a dazzling in-game cosmic fireworks extravaganza at Jita 4-4, and a momentous opportunity to be inscribed onto the updated and expanded Worlds Within A World monument. CCP Games also shared the completed Fabric of New Eden mosaic, a celebratory digital artwork featuring over 80,000 EVE players.    

“The EVE universe has grown exponentially over the past 20 years thanks to the devoted, unshakable explorers of New Eden,” said Hilmar Veigar Pétursson, CEO of CCP Games. “From breaking world records to selflessly rallying around those in need, EVE Online’s players continue to prove why it is an MMO unlike any other. Join us in New Eden for live events and in-game activities observing this incredible 20-year milestone throughout the summer.”

For the first time in 10 years, players can have their EVE character’s name engraved on the Worlds Within A World monument in Reykjavík, Iceland, solidifying their mark on EVE Online’s storied history. To be eligible to stand alongside the legends of New Eden, players must have an active Omega account on May 6, 2023.

Igniting the birthday month of May, players can warp into EVE Online’s celebratory CCP TV stream on Twitch this Saturday, May 6 (17:00-19:00 UTC), which includes developer interviews, prizes and a live in-game (Jita 4-4) fireworks display of cosmic proportions.

Stay tuned for more information about Viridian later in May. Details for the Capsuleer Day event can be found here. EVE Online can be downloaded for free by visiting www.eveonline.com. For all the latest information about the game, please visit EVE News.

 

About EVE Online®
EVE Online (PC/Mac) is a compelling, community-driven sci-fi MMO game where players can build and pilot a wide variety of spaceships, traversing vast solar systems for free and choosing their own path from countless options, experiencing space exploration, immense PvP and PvE battles, mining, industry and a sophisticated player economy in an ever-expanding sandbox. EVE is a captivating game in which hundreds of thousands of players compete for riches, power, glory and adventure, forging their own destinies in a single thriving universe.

The Right Timing

The Right Timing – A sci-fi short by Chris Jones

“That’s my father!” Captain Dane Briggs said as he stared into the time travel vortex. Dane did not realize he was about to become part of his father’s famous space battle.

…a third warship hovering down from above struck Dane as odd.
“That’s… not how the story went.” Dane thought.

Starship Captain Dane Briggs finds himself back in time 30 years, on his father’s ship during a now famous battle in which his father was victorious, but something was not right here, and it wasn’t the fact that he himself was ‘out of time’ on his father’s ship.

..Is my being here, back in time, somehow causing the change?” Dane thought as he faked like he was doing his job..

..he only had a short amount of time before his father would enact his original plan and get them all killed..

Chris Jones is an avid Science Fiction fan and PC Gamer who has written missions for several Star Trek PC games spanning 1999 to 2009. Most recently, Chris was the head of a modification team that changed a Star Trek game to look close if not exactly like the original TV shows and movies. That modification has garnered nearly 100, 000 downloads and is still downloaded today.

It was time to author a science-fiction short story.

What caused this time travel vortex that seemed to only be in Dane’s Captain’s quarters? Why was he drawn back in time to be with his father?

It’s on Amazon Kindle!

*****

As an update to this post, this story is now public. It’s called ‘The Right Timing’ – A Father and Son Time Travel story. 

Artwork by my daughter Olsie.

Land a career in video games - Chris Jones Gaming

Land a Career in Video Games

Authored by Micah Norris for Chris Jones Gaming

Land a Career in Video Games By Following These Steps

Turning a passion like playing video games into a career may sound like a fantasy, but it’s actually quite achievable if you know where to start. If you have the right training and work on building up a particular skill set, you can begin a career in the gaming industry in no time. The key is to have a clear understanding of aspects like how to stay focused and on task, sussing out customer needs, and getting the right technical training so you can bring your vision to life for your audience in a professional manner. You can also look for resources that will help you learn all you can about the video game industry, and Chris Jones Gaming is a great place to start.

Here are a few things to know about turning your love of video games into a career:

Seek out the right education

Video games are so highly advanced these days that some are visually comparable to big-budget movies, and while they’re not all at that level, most do still require developers to have a wide range of skills. Most individuals who are working in the video game industry are skilled in software design and programming. Even if your goal is to focus on just one aspect of the industry, it will be extremely helpful for you to learn about everything from coding to creating scenery since working on games requires both creative and technical skills.

Make your resume stand out

It can be a challenge to stand out in a sea of talent when you’re ready to look for a job, which is why it’s essential to make sure your resume is all it can be. Think outside the box and get potential employers to notice you by adding a bit of creative flair, but don’t forget to put an emphasis on your skills and achievements. Keep in mind that you can create a fantastic, professional resume by using a free online template that allows you to customize it with your choice of colors, fonts, copy, and images. This will take some of the pressure off as you prepare to find your dream job.

Put in the time in order to find a job

Even with a great resume, you’ll need to put in some time when it comes to finding a job. This includes playing a variety of different games to learn all you can about design and gameplay and can also involve starting a gaming blog or vlog to get your name out there and provide a base for networking. You might even create your own game and give potential employers an idea of your skills. It’s also a good idea to remain open to internships, which can help you get your foot in the door and start connecting with like-minded creators.

Start your own video game business – Land a career in video games

As you start working on your blog and begin the search for a job, you might consider the benefits of starting your own video game-based business. There are tons of options available these days for individuals who have the skills and tools, from building a great app for a mobile game to creating a coding tool that other developers can use.

If you have marketing experience, you might start a business using those skills to help video game developers share their creations with the world. Whatever you decide to do, just make sure you have some protection on your side in the form of a business structure like an LLC. Forming an LLC will provide tax benefits and keep your personal assets safe, and while every state has its own rules about formation, you can read up on the steps and hire a service to file the paperwork in New York.

Getting involved in the video game industry can take a little time, whether you want to find a job with an established company or start your own video game-based business. Try to remain patient as you build your skills, create a stellar resume, and gain experience in the developing world.

Have a video game question? Get in touch with Chris today.

Land a Career in Video Games By Following These Steps

The Right Timing

Sci-Fi Short Story close to release

Updating this post I’d like to say that the short story is close to release.

I’m quite proud of this.

Here is a small blurb from it.

“What Just Happened? Just then the intercom in the Captain’s quarters beeped. Dane responded with “Briggs here, what is it?” His First officer, second in command, came on and said, Happy Birthday, Sir. The Crew would like to wish you a Happy Birthday in person. There’s a cake with your name on it in the lounge”.

Watch for updates here.

Cover illustration by Olsie.

As for the game I mention in that previous post, it is still in concept stage, based on the final edits of the short story.

Update Sept 19, 2022 – The Short Story has been released on Amazon – Click this!!!

Summer Games Fest 2022 on Chris Jones Gaming

Summer Game Fest 2022

Here’s what up with Summer Game Fest!

Summer Game Fest 2022 starts today!

This is the world’s first fully digital, global celebration of video games. Launched in May of 2020, Summer Game Fest unites the entire video game industry for a summer celebration, featuring digital events, demos, announcements, and breaking news for video game fans.

Chris Jones Gaming is looking forward to this!

SUMMER GAME FEST 2022 is taking place during the month of June. Specific event dates will be announced in the coming weeks. Follow them HERE!

Chris Jones Gaming

Let’s Make a Game

Chris Jones Gaming was founded in Late 2006 by Chris Jones and Mindwipe. Chris Jones had been a well known member of the Star Trek Gaming Community for a number of years, modding games in the Starfleet Command series and 2002’s Star Trek: Bridge Commander.

It wasn’t long before Modders who’d known him in the past joined Chris Jones Gaming and began work on the Ultimate Universe Mod for 2006’s Star Trek: Legacy.

The team grew to a respectable size and the Ultimate Universe Demo was released just four months later. Over the next four years, the Ultimate Universe Mod and Chris Jones Gaming continued to grow, releasing expansion packs to the mod in between the feature installs, which were named Ultimate Universe Version 1.0 and Ultimate Universe Version 2.0, as well as attracting some of the brightest talents from other communities, their scratch-built models reaching professional standards.

The Ultimate Universe Mod is one of our proudest achievements. Through its various incarnations, it has been downloaded many thousands of times from various websites, in our own way greatly expanding and extending the life of Star Trek: Legacy beyond what would have been its natural life.

What’s Next? We are alive and well here – and are in the discussion stages for creating a brand new game! (as of June 4, 2022).

so.. Let’s Make a Game!

Chris Jones Gaming Let's Make a Game
Chris Jones Gaming SciFi

We are going to make a game

I feel the beginning of a month is a good time to announce something like this.

We are going to make a game.

Chris Jones Gaming is going to make a game.

What kind of Game?

Science Fiction – or SciFi.

We got the look..

I have a short story that will be published soon – I’ve been saying that for a while – but it is happening.

It will for sure be a PC Game, and we’ll discuss Console versions.

Update Sept 19, 2022 – The Short Story has been released on Amazon – Click this!!!

Heading up The Ultimate Universe Mod starting in 2007 was a fantastic experience, and I believe it to be the time right to create something brand new.

There’ll be more on this as it progresses.

Excited for the Future!

Gaming News and the Ultimate Universe