Cuba has debuted a new national Linux-based operating system dubbed "Nova."  As one might expect, Cuba claims that the move will help the country replace proprietary Microsoft software running on the nation's computers.  It almost sounds a little silly, but Cuba makes two noteworthy points as to why it's trying to purge this United States-based software from its networks.  Nor is this the first international body that's sought to replace Microsoft software with an open-source alternative.

According to Cuban officials, the switch is more intended to turn away from United States-backed software as opposed to specifically Microsoft.  They claim that governmental agencies would be able to infiltrate Cuban systems because they would could to pressure Microsoft to give up its "codes."  It's unclear whether Cuba expects U.S. officials to actually hack into Cuban databases, break through encryption measures, or any combination of nefarious activities.  Cuban officials also suggest that importing Microsoft software violates the U.S. trade embargo, an explanation for why Microsoft operating systems are allegedly more difficult to acquire for the island nation.

Grab your cigar and click the link to find out just how much Linux adoption Cuba expects to have within five years!

It might seem like an oxymoron to the average geek: getting healthy with your PC.  Sure, you can lift your turbo-charged, water-cooled desktop as if you were doing a common bench press.  And you could probably tie the ends of the two front speakers in your 5.1 surround sound system together, creating a crude jump rope for exercising right out of your home office / basement dwelling / dorm room.  But while these fitness techniques might improve your personal health, they're not very beneficial for the longevity of your beloved computer system.

Let's fix that.

We're taking a look at fitness-themed applications in this week's freeware roundup.  And while you might roll your eyes as you head back to your local meat locker for a punching session, don't brush off the notion of computer-assisted fitness just yet.  From applications that help you map your heart rate, to nutrition guides, to a comprehensive guidebook of exercises that you can do right at (or near) your desk, this batch of freeware apps will help you transform your PC into your very own personal trainer.  

Slap on some sweatbands and click the link, for it's time to pump you up.

Are you ready for some f... reeware?  It's Super Bowl weekend at Maximum PC, and we're doing all we can to find you the best, quick-hit freeware applications that will make a profound difference in your computing life.  It's hard to manage the grill and install freeware, so we're giving you a mix this week: Tiny applications that don't require much of your input at all to interact with, as well as a pretty big application or two that should easily distract you if football-watching isn't your thing.  We're covering a lot of field this week with our applications.  Be prepared to check out everything from efficient file unzippers, to 3D designing programs, to pretty desktop RSS feed readers.

So what are you waiting for?  Put on your helmet and get ready to go third and long with our latest batch of freeware applications!

Sometimes gamers just have to go back to their roots.  It's inevitable.  Blazing, next-generation graphics can be a blast to check out, and all the crazy advances in storytelling and immersion have allowed games to penetrate peoples' lives more than ever before.  Don't get us wrong, these are all good things for the industry and its many, many fans.

But gamers always get that urge--a tickling--to give their turbocharged video card a break and fire up some titles that have withstood the test of time.  Or better yet, modern reinventions of classic gameplay motifs. Some of these titles can be a blast to play, which is exactly why we're jumping into the gaming remake scene with this week's freeware roundup.  If you loved the originals that these games are based on, you'll find yourself sinking just as much time into these freeware remixes as before.  Don't worry if you've never played some of the genres that these newer titles are based on.  Spend a few minutes downloading these titles, fire up a game or two in your spare time, and see what you think!

Click the jump and check out the games!