One of the best P2P programs around

Pros: Shareaza is a comprehensive P2P file sharing program that incorporates a detailed search of the Gnutella2 host system. It features a simple file sharing interface with clear tabs at the top of the app. The search system is also comprehensive and easy to use, with multiple categories not found in other P2P programs (categories include searching by 'book' 'video' 'audio' etc.)

This version of Shareaza improves the screening procedure by adding a review viewer, where sharers can see if a file is a dud download (a major problem with P2P in my opinion). The new version also has a more comprehensive help file which would be useful to people new to P2P.

Superficially, Shareaza is easily customizable and skinnable with easy ways to set the max upload/download speed and how much priority to use on a download.

At just over three megabytes, Shareaza is a small freeware download and is definitely a worthwhile download. As the app functions of a wide range of OS (from Win 95 to XP), running it is also no problem for older PCs.

All in all, I would highly recommend Shareaza for any file sharer.

Cons: it would perhaps be better if Shareaza could connect to more than the Gnutella network.

Posted: 20-Jul-2006 10:33:08 PM

A 'must have' for the gamechest

Pros: Rome Total War is a brilliant mix of strategy and governmental gameplay. Play as over a dozen ancient countries ranging from Scythia to Rome. The demo is very good in giving a tutorial and a historical battle- gameplay which not only gives a good impression of what the game will be like, but also a fair gameplay time (about an hour). At just over 150Mb, the demo is a relatively small download for a game, and the system requirements for it are also low (OS Win 98-XP, 1Ghz CPU, 256 RAM) so the game should still run smoothly on older computers. The game itself is less than $50, and as such is a bargain.

Unlike other strategy games like Warcraft and Dawn of War, RTW gameplay puts more emphasis on strategy, with height and direction of combat playing a role in the outcome of any conflict. However the gameplay is not wholly of combat, it also puts much emphasis on diplomacy and government.

This is an ideal game for all ages, and I'd strongly recommend you try the demo!

Posted: 19-Jul-2006 12:18:21 AM

Very good but very expensive

Pros: Very easy to use and clear interface. Sibelius 3.11 comes with a detailed help file and a host of functions not found on other music notation software. Its flexi time input is amazing, with the ability to notate melody AND rhythm from an input keyboard (or other instrument). It is a small download and this makes it ideal for the aspiring music composer

Cons: Very expensive.

Posted: 18-Jul-2006 01:50:36 AM