In a world of mobile games, these might be the most adorable, high-tech games you can find.
The Sifteo Cubes made a splash when they first came out: Small and moveable, they're like tiny iPhones you can power up and play with. Now, the sequel: San Francisco's Sifteo out with a new set of cubes. We got an early preview, and they're still fun, while even more portable.
With the new Cubes, you no longer need a computer nearby to play; it's been replaced by another cube, called the base. The base updates games when plugged into your computer. Then, toss it on the table with the Cubes, and you're good to go. The company includes four Cubes with your purchase; you can buy more if you want - you can play with as many as 12 Cubes at a time.
Sifteo is also partnering with entertainment companies like Nickelodeon for kids' games, while developing a Cube game based on the "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle" franchise (the company founders - David Merrill and Jeevan Kalanithi - tell me that will be ready in November). The initial set costs about $130, and you can add Cubes for about $30 each.
The games are not terribly complex, but once you start playing with them, they're kind of addictive. You can tell the founders grew up playing video games, and were affected by the mobile world. It's a cool mix.
Scott, ready to play, is on Twitter: @scottbudman
