"I feel a device like Wii U, with its ability to continue to offer new features and that network connection and the connection to the TV and the interface, really makes it feel that it's more than just a game machine, but something that offers a lot of practical use and practical purpose in the living room, " he said.

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Assess your money and see if you can make room for a single nice, practical-but-luxurious purchase such as a TV or high-quality bed.

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There is plenty of room for debate as to which is more plausible, or practical.

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RationalCraft's software is free to try out now, although the requirement for at least two big TVs, a Kinect controller and a fast Mac should say all there is to know about the practical cost of pretending the Golden Gate Bridge is visible from inside a living room in Cleveland.

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Like everyone else in the room, Mr. Fry patiently listened to the presentation and then failed to come up with any practical applications for the compound.

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