120hz in 2D, what's the point? [closed]

Question

So I've been searching the internet for advice on my next Pc/Console monitor purchase and come across a good deal on the LG D2342P-PN. It's LED, got all three connectors I want adn even 3D in 120Hz, which I didn't want but why not have?!

Then, I read some reviews and the biggest simple complain I read is that this monitor does not support 120Hz in 2D. Eh? 120Hz in 2D? Whoever needs that? Last time I checked 60fps was the speed everyone wanted their games to run in, which is the same as refresh speed of most monitors, but now we're aiming for, presumably, 120fps? Or is it 60fps in 120Hz, that we want? But still, why? Therefore:

What are the advantages of running a monitor in 120Hz in 2D ? (general use, films and games)

I understand why 120fps in 3D is good (single eye flickering, whatever it's called, which in effect produces 60fps), but in 2D? Please someone explain! Cheers.

Answer

The frames per second of the game is different to the refresh rate of the monitor.

Higher refresh rates on the monitor give you a more stable picture - regardless of whether that picture is being changed by the computer at 60 frames per second or 1. When monitors were cathode ray tubes it was definitely the case that you could see flickering at 60Hz or even higher refresh rates so a 120Hz monitor would effectively be "flicker free". With LCD and LED displays this is less of an issue, but going to 120Hz could be beneficial, but it's unlikely.

However, it's more likely that it's because the monitor is operating in 120Hz anyway regardless of the 2D/3D mode.

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Downloading games to PSVita from other stores than the Japanese

Question

Is it possible to download PSVita games to an imported device without using a Japanese account? That is, before its launched in EU for example.

Answer

I can confirm the US and EU stores are not live. Attempting to access the PSN store with a US profile on a Vita as of 12/31/2010 will encounter a cannot connect error until they are launched along side the Vita rollouts in those markets.

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Recourse for bad, expensive PC games

Question

PC gaming seems to be a little bit different than many other forms of entertainment. Going to the movies cost you $10. A book is similar. Console games can be sold or traded. As a PC gamer, is there any recourse for making a "bad buy", when you're out $50?

I try to be careful before buying new (expensive) games, but even highly reviewed games won't appeal to everybody.

Edit: Recourse could be anything. Does throwing the CDs in the microwave really make you feel better? I'd like to know.

Answer

This doesn't help for games you've already bought, but:

I think research before buying is the best answer (as many other answers have already said - especially demos, videos of actual gameplay and reputable reviews sites).

But I'd like to add: wait. The game will still be there in 6-12 months, but:

• Less $ wasted: you can buy it on sale on steam (often for as low as $5-10 at some point in the first year or two after release)
• More honest reviews: the reviewers will get over their initial excitement. If the game was really good (once they look back, with the benefit of hindsight) they'll put it in a "best games of the year" list.
• Fewer bugs: Some games get patches after release that fix bugs (some even add features or fix bad DRM)
• Maybe even better visuals: you may have upgraded to a faster PC by then

It may seem hard to wait, but there are a million other things to do while you wait (sports, social life, novels, movies, study, family, travel, learning... and if that doesn't appeal to you: have you really played through all of the best games of all time already?)

PS: Doesn't work as well for internet multiplayer games, of course - you may have trouble finding fellow players if you wait too long!

PPS: Not just saying this. Just finished Braid ($10), I'm playing Portal right now (Orange Box $10) and will probably play Mass Effect ($10) or Psychonauts ($2) next

PPPS: Further example: Prince of Persia: Forgotten Sands. At release: $50, only 6 months later: $5 (steam sale).

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Is Battlefield 3 available as a digital purchase for PC?

Question

Is Battlefield 3 available as a digital purchase for PC?

Where can I purchase it online?

Answer

Yes, you can use EA's Origin store/application to purchase and download Battlefield 3 here.

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Can I purchase and download Halo 2 for windows online somewhere?

Question

I have Googled this to no avail. Every place I've found that sells this game insists on shipping it.

1. I don't want to wait
2. I don't want to pay for shipping on a digital product that can just as well be downloaded
3. I'm stubborn

So if there's somewhere I can purchase and download Halo 2, I offer you reputation points for the location. Thanks

Answer

There is no place where you can purchase and download a digital legit copy, at the moment.

Usually Microsoft PC Games can be bought here but, for some reasons, Halo 2 is not available ATM.

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