This image speaks volumes

In a move that mirrors Activision’s series of questionable decisions, Blizzard decided they would modify their battle net policies.

This morning it’s been announced that moving forward, Battle Net and most forums (set aside very few classic forums) will have users posting with their “RealID” – which means their real first and last names.  Blizzard insists that it has everything to do with the explosion of social networking but does not mention that it makes them look batshit insane like their parents (Activision) or Facebook. Internet users are no stranger to  privacy concerns – so this move by Blizzard is interesting to say the least.  The immediate backlash in the thread goes to show the disapproval of the change.  Concerns include people’s names being linked to what they say on the forums among other things. With anonymity gone, potential employers could see people’s less than savory flame wars or image posts.  While the idea of an interviewer getting a face full of goatse is mildly amusing it does support the red flags raised in the discussion.  What will be really interesting however, is to see if Blizzard wavers on their decision.  Facebook has already showed that they have no plans to honor people’s complaints regarding privacy so why should Blizzard?

OMG!

Introducing the GNSU Minicast!  This is a shorter podcast on Wednesdays/Thursdays discussing anything geek related that isn’t gaming.  This week we talk about how the internet is invading everything, jelli.net, and some amazing youtube videos you don’t want to miss.

And don’t hesitate to e-mail us!  We mention the crap out of it on the podcast but it’s because we want to hear from you! What do you guys think?  Click on the staff page and shoot us an e-mail (but don’t shoot us! ha ha ha!)

For those of you who are listening in and want to see the videos, check them out right here:

Neo Geo Collection Dance:

The Biggest Ninja Turtle Fan

Turtles Forever: Let’s Save April!

Should Left 4 Dead 2 DIE?

BREAKING NEWS!

Microsoft just sent out news that on Tuesday November 17th there will be a mandatory update for XBox live.  The colorful HTML newsletter features some dick in a bad hat partying with rhythmically challenged friends (you call that dancing?) making attempt to draw in the youth demographic.

In the update e-mail, Microsoft informs XBox live members of several features that will be available to them.  While having access to Facebook, Last.fm and Twitter is not news to most gamers, the release date is.

So why all the fuss?

It’s simple, it is being released the same day as Left 4 Dead 2.

The news reportedly has Valve rushing to push for a November 16th release.  Given Valve’s track record this means the game will be released on November 17th.  It’s with that in mind that one questions Valve’s decision to push for an earlier release.  When GNSU reporter asked Valve to comment on the decision a spokesperson issued the following statement:

“It’s simple, people like Perez Hilton and Ashton Kutcher are all over twitter.  This could detract from our sales, big time.  People will see Perez twittering from Halo 3 and they’ll want to twitter too.  It’s not right but we have no choice.”

A rather curious decision on Valve’s part as the update is free for XBox live users.  Regardless, they are clearly worried.  Spokesperson David McKinley also had this to say:

“Quite frankly, we’re worried that people like updating their statuses more than shooting zombies.”

Valve has nothing to worry about in Australia however, as Twitter has been banned for being too violent.

More on this as it develops. . .