Update: January 19, 2007
«©NCSX» The latest Talkman software for the PSP teaches Japanese citizens the ways and means of conversational English. As usual, the flighty bird known as MAX serves as the guide and intermediary for the language learning. The developers recommend regular practice of at least 15 minutes per day to get the nuances, rhythm, and meter of spoken English. In the repetition exercise, Max may utter a question such as "Are you traveling for business or pleasure?" or "What would you like to drink?" in his pleasant sounding voice. Along with the spoken words, an English text bubble appears on screen. Underneath the English phrase is a Japanese translation in katakana. Your job is to listen, read the translation of the phrase in Japanese, and then repeat the English phrase as closely as possible. The mic will pick up your intonation and then Max will rank you accordingly with a letter grade. When Max addresses the user, his text bubble is highlighted with a blue color. When the user's prompts and speaking selections pop up, they appear in red text bubbles to differentiate them. Note however that Max will speak both sides of the conversation so that players can listen to the proper use of English. If you repeat a phrase perfectly, Max will give you an "A" grade which he lifts up on a little sign card. When you speak, a little voice volume meter shows up on the upper right corner of the screen which blinks red and green to show the mic is picking up your speech properly. View the back cover and screenshots on the main NCSX website.
NCS Game Notes
» Please note that Talkman Shiki requires the PSP microphone for full operation of the software's capabilities. NCS currently only has the software-only version of Talkman Shiki in stock but if you've purchased either of the two earlier versions of Talkman with the mic, it'll work fine with the Talkman Shiki software.» MAX talks pretty fast and it sounds normal to native English speakers. However, if English is your second or third language, MAX sounds like a streaming patter of gibberish. If you mess up the pronunciation a couple of times, MAX will ratchet down the speed and speak slowly and enunciate each syllable. MAX will also repeat the phrase if prompted. » The software features 15 scenarios with appropriate sayings and questions that may be used at the airport, at the clothing store, in a restaurant, in everyday conversation, and more. This document is ©NCSX 2007. All rights reserved. No reproduction in whole or in part of this document may be made without express written consent of National Console Support, Inc.
|
