Tech Pimpin'

Now, I don't usually like to write about gear and gadgets unless I'm being paid off. And I'm not. Unfortunately.

But because a number of very cool things have recently fallen into my possession, I feel the need to endorse them a little bit because...well...they're friggen awesome.

I have to link to ThinkGeek for this awesome device: the static electricity eliminator. Now, ten bucks might seem a little expensive for a key chain type product, but hell, I'm thinking about getting ten of them period. Basically, you touch this darling to things that you KNOW (or even think may...) give off a static shock and it will safely absorb it. As someone who works in a carpeted room with lots of electronics, this thing has been a godsend. It works on everything from light switches to USB ports.

Between not having the work with that feeling of dread around things you know will shock you (moments like that doorknob from Office Space) and the demented satisfaction you can get in actually destroying the static...it really could be the single best invention of the modern era.

Also, a little known deal is going on right now at Barnes & Noble.com, who have recently partnered with GameStop to try and get into the video game business. If you buy Unreal III for PC from them, you get a free copy of Unreal Anthology with it. For fifty dollars, that is crazy. Unreal Anthology includes UT2004 as well as all the old school Unreals. You really can't ask for more quality shooter action. I was literally about to pick up a copy of the Unreal Anthology for my girlfriend's computer and even eBay had me paying around twenty dollars for it. To get it for free with a reasonably priced UT3, both brand new with keys? Move over Orange Box.

I'll have a full report on UTIII in a little bit, but for now, let me just say one of the biggest problems, is that there's not enough people playing online...so get on it already!