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] [Posted by Bjorn on Monday, January 31 2005 @ 17:53 CET]Ubisoft will publish Bomberman for DS and PS2
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Ubisoft, one of the world’s largest videogame publishers, today announces that it has signed an exclusive deal with Hudson Soft Co., Ltd, a leading developer of game and entertainment software, to publish and distribute Bomberman DS for the Nintendo DS™ in Europe and North America and Bomberman Hardball for Sony’s PlayStation®2 throughout Europe. The latest installments of the well-known action/puzzle series Bomberman will be released on PS2 this Spring and for the DS in Summer 2005.
Fans of the Bomberman multiplayer videogame will enjoy the smooth simplicity of the original gameplay but with the enhancement of 3D graphics. New enemy characters will join the familiar ones that led to its lasting popularity. Both Bomberman Hardball and Bomberman DS will offer a novel gaming experience that leverages the capabilities of each platform while remaining faithful to the spirit of the original game.
Bomberman Hardball for PlayStation®2 innovates on the brand’s classic puzzle-based bombing action with new baseball, golf and tennis games each of which has single-player and multi-player modes. A new ‘life’ mode tied to the PS2 system clock provides a dynamic view of your character’s day-to-day activities, and side challenges allow you to customize his or her appearance. Naturally, the traditional Bomberman game can be experienced through five different ‘battle’ modes for up to 4 players.
Bomberman DS will take advantage of the unique features of Nintendo’s new handheld console. The intense battle action will take place on both screens of the console for a wider view of the game, with players able to access and use the menu via the Touch Screen function. Leading battles by voice input will be easy with the Nintendo DS™ voice recognition system and microphone: just ‘SHOUT’ and win your battle! Gamers can also choose between the ‘standard’ single-player mode and ‘battle’ mode where up to 8 people compete against each other via the wireless LAN feature.
Six new screenshots of Star Wars Ep III!!!!
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Monday, January 31 2005 @ 17:36 CET]
We have just fired up the 6 new screenshots that we received today from LucasArts/Activision upcoming Star Wars RTS game, "Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith".
These screenshots are taken from the PC and XBOX version.
You can view them all right here.
TOCA Racer Driver 2 comes to Sony's PSP
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Codemasters will take PSP gamers to the world's finest circuits in TOCA Race Driver 2.
TOCA Race Driver 2 brings the most motorsports in any game to PSP, complete with real performance cars, real damage, real physics, and real driver AI that adapts to suit your level of racing expertise.
Prepare for a professional racing career that takes you through an incredible 15 different motorsports including GT Sports Car Racing, Street Racing, the touring cars of the DTM and V8 Supercars championships, Global GT Lights, Rally Cross, Formula Ford, Open Wheel Grand Prix, Classic Car Racing, Super Truck racing, Stockcar Oval Racing, Ice-Racing, Convertible Racing, and Performance Cars.
The specially selected vehicle roster features some of the world's most exotic high-performance racing cars. You get the best from the start too: leap straight into a Ford GT and accelerate onto racing the Jaguar XJ220 AMR, Aston Martin V12 Vanquish, Koenig Competition 2002, Nissan Skyline, Ford 2000 SVT Mustang Cobra R and many more.
Competitive racing has never been so closely fought. Even on PSP, TOCA Race Driver 2 features intense pack racing with up to 21 cars competing for position. When you want to race against some real drivers, there's LAN-style play for up to 8 players over WiFi.
TOCA Race Driver 2 will lauch Q2 for PSP. Find out more, plus details of Colin McRae Rally 2005 on PSP, online at www.codemasters.co.uk/psp
Launch details and prize of European Nintendo DS
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Nintendo DS will change the way people play video games. Through a whole set of new features, such as touch screen, voice input and wireless communication, games can be controlled by touch or voice and it will have two screens, not one. Today at a press conference in Paris, Nintendo announced that this innovative new console will be available to buy in the UK on 11 March at the estimated retail price of around £99 and will be supported by a strong software line up. The Nintendo DS has been received exceptionally well in the US and Japan, having sold 2.8 million units by the end of 2004, and is expected to have the same response when it launches in the UK.
At launch in the UK, there will be a total of 15 games available for the Nintendo DS. The strong software launch line-up includes games such as Super Mario 64 DS, Polarium, WarioWare Touched! and Pokémon Dash from Nintendo, plus great titles from the world's top Publishers such as Rayman DS (Ubisoft), Project Rub (SEGA), The URBZ: Sims in the City (EA) and Spider-Man 2 (Activision). And with over 120 games being developed for the system, there will be plenty to keep gamers busy throughout 2005. With a battery life of up to 10-hours, there is ample time between recharges to enjoy these great titles.
Nintendo DS will come with a free software feature called PictoChat. This allows users to write text or even create their very own drawings to send to friends within a radius of up to 100ft. The Nintendo DS, when in sleep mode, will spring to life if it senses another DS transmitting in range, altering users that someone wants to chat or play games with them! The initial shipment of Nintendo DS for launch will also be bundled with a playable demo version of Metroid Prime Hunters: First Hunt.
Once again Nintendo's innovation will redefine video game play. The Nintendo DS incorporates advanced touch-screen technology, with breathtaking 3D graphics, all in a sleek silver design. The touch screen feature allows players to get closer to the games by giving them a far more direct, faster control. Upon opening the Nintendo DS, gamers are greeted by not one, but two three inch 260,000 colour TFT screens, the bottom of which is touch sensitive. Instead of having to use the buttons and d-pad to control games, players can use the stylus, thumb strap included with the console or finger, to rub and tap their way through games.
Games can easily be played with friends thanks to the revolutionary wireless functionality provided by the Nintendo DS. Up to 16 players can communicate using PictoChat, or play multiplayer games at distances of up to 100ft. Want to play multiplayer Mario but only have one copy? Don't fear! The wireless connection even allows a group of gamers to play Nintendo DS with only one copy of a game by using the DS download play option.
The Nintendo DS comes complete with stereo speakers and an microphone built in, setting the mood and adding to the overall interactive experience. Launch titles such as Sega's Project Rub already use this microphone in a variety of ways, for example with games that require players to blow at the screen in order to proceed.
The Nintendo DS features two separate game slots, one for Nintendo DS games and one for Game Boy Advance games. The Nintendo DS is fully backwards compatible with all Game Boy Advance titles, and with over 550 titles, it means you can play all of your old favourites. The new format for games also means that the Nintendo DS has no moving parts that can be misaligned if the unit is dropped.
The Nintendo DS will launch in the UK on 11 March 2005 at the estimated retail price of around £99. Software will be available at selected retailers at the estimated retail price of around £29 and £19, depending on the specific title.
Ubisoft announces new Bomberman
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Ubisoft, one of the world's largest videogame publishers, today announces that it has signed an exclusive deal with Hudson Soft Co., Ltd, a leading developer of game and entertainment software, to publish and distribute Bomberman DS for the Nintendo DSTM in Europe and North America and Bomberman Hardball for Sony's PlayStation®2 throughout Europe. The latest installments of the well-known action/puzzle series Bomberman will be released on PS2 this Spring and for the DS in Summer 2005.
Fans of the Bomberman multiplayer videogame will enjoy the smooth simplicity of the original gameplay but with the enhancement of 3D graphics. New enemy characters will join the familiar ones that led to its lasting popularity. Both Bomberman Hardball and Bomberman DS will offer a novel gaming experience that leverages the capabilities of each platform while remaining faithful to the spirit of the original game.
Bomberman Hardball for PlayStation®2 innovates on the brand's classic puzzle-based bombing action with new baseball, golf and tennis games each of which has single-player and multi-player modes. A new 'life' mode tied to the PS2 system clock provides a dynamic view of your character's day-to-day activities, and side challenges allow you to customize his or her appearance. Naturally, the traditional Bomberman game can be experienced through five different 'battle' modes for up to 4 players.
Bomberman DS will take advantage of the unique features of Nintendo's new handheld console. The intense battle action will take place on both screens of the console for a wider view of the game, with players able to access and use the menu via the Touch Screen function. Leading battles by voice input will be easy with the Nintendo DSTM voice recognition system and microphone: just 'SHOUT' and win your battle! Gamers can also choose between the 'standard' single-player mode and 'battle' mode where up to 8 people compete against each other via the wireless LAN feature.
KONAMI announces Castlevania: Curse of Darkness
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Friday, January 28 2005 @ 22:24 CET]
Konami of Europe announced today that Castlevania®: Curse of DarknessTM for the PlayStation®2 will be available in fall 2005. While past Castlevania® games have focused on the struggle between Dracula and the Belmont clan, Castlevania: Curse of Darkness introduces players to an entirely new storyline and main character – Hector, one of two Devil Forgemasters, who had once refined his skills under Dracula. Told in true Castlevania style, this action-packed tale of betrayal and revenge takes players on a journey through an expansive world filled with formidable foes and beautifully rendered environments to the ruins of Dracula's castle.
Disillusioned with the ideals of his mentor, Hector fled Vallachia to pursue a more normal life, leaving Dracula vulnerable to the Belmonts. Now, three years after Dracula was defeated in battle, the magic power of the curse released upon his death has infected all of Europe. As the continent succumbs to pestilence, heresy and mob violence, Isaac – a former friend and fellow Devil Forgemaster – suddenly appears. Believing their master's death was a result of Hector's betrayal, Isaac implicates his friend's beloved in a deadly witch trial. Fueled by revenge, Hector sets off on a journey to his former home, which is now completely morphed in dark magic, to confront Isaac.
Armed with the unique new abilities of Devil Forgery, gamers will be able to forge trusty allies – "Innocent Devils" – who will help defeat a variety of powerful enemies. More than 30 evolving allies will develop unique abilities ranging from those that can open heavy doors, to those that can help Hector fly. They will aid players in conquering various enemies, avoiding perilous traps and solving challenging puzzles. As players progress through the game and gain experience points, their character's strength will increase, reminiscent of the same gameplay found in the critically acclaimed Castlevania: Symphony of the Night.
More info on SEGA's House of the Dead III
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Friday, January 28 2005 @ 22:22 CET]
They thought the horror died with Curien.....they were wrong.
Release Date: 11 Feb 2005
Barcode: TBA
Territory: EFSIGASF
Age Ratings: PEGI 16+
Developers: SEGA WOW
Genres: Arcade Shooter
Survivors of the horrific phenomenon sweeping the globe identify the EFI Research Facility as the force behind the world collapse. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, authorities send in former AMS agent Thomas Rogan. But mere moments into the mission, contact with Rogan is lost.Desperate for answers, G and Lisa Rogan arrive at the EFI Research Facility in an effort to locate Thomas Rogan and his team. Beguiled by their apocalyptic surroundings, one seeks a friend while the other seeks a father. The astonishing facts, previously concealed, now propel both agents toward an unexpected confrontation, and a conclusion that will change the earth forever.
Features:
One to two players
Huge interactive levels with massive armies of zombies
New shotgun allows players to mow down large groups of enemies all at once
Branching paths and a variety of endings add to the replay value.
Time is now a factor – Dead-eye aim won't mean much unless gamers have the quick trigger-finger to back it up.
All-new graphics and special effects push the limits of the PC.
Death comes to PSP!
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Konami announces plans to publish Death, Jr for PSPTM handheld video game system
Konami of Europe today announced plans to publish Death, Jr., one of the most highly anticipated launch titles for the forthcoming PSPTM handheld video game system. Already creating a huge buzz in the video game industry for its surprising amount of visual effects - including a unique particle-effect system and sophisticated 3D engine - Death, Jr. is emerging as a must-have title for PSP.
Developed by Backbone Entertainment, Death, Jr., seamlessly blends first-person shooter elements with third-person platforming action that serve up a large dose of intense gameplay and weapon-heavy combat. The game stars Death, Jr., a mischievous youngster who embarks with his friends on a school field trip to the local museum. When the group sneaks away to explore on their own, they unwittingly unleash an ancient evil from a mysterious locked box. Now, facing near insurmountable odds and the threat of being grounded and sent to military school, Death, Jr. and his pals must fight hoards of demons and their wicked master Moloch through the museum's displays and surrounding town before anyone else finds out.
In order to avoid getting in trouble, and to save his friends from eternal suffering at the hands of Moloch, Death, Jr. must eliminate the evil demon scourge that has taken over the town. Armed with a mighty scythe, which serves as both a weapon and unique platforming tool, and an arsenal of guns and explosives, Death, Jr. will battle through numerous action-filled levels towards a final confrontation with Moloch himself.
X-Box surpasses five million consoles in Europe
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Friday, January 28 2005 @ 22:17 CET]
Xbox today announced that it has smashed through an important milestone in Europe, selling five million consoles since the European launch in March 2002.
Second-quarter financial results announced by Microsoft show that Xbox has sold 5.0 million consoles life-to-date in Europe up to 31st December 2004. A steady stream of fantastic-value offers at retail throughout the year, the limited edition Crystal Console, Xbox Live consistently setting new standards for online gaming and blockbuster titles like Halo 2 (Microsoft Game Studios), Fable (Lionhead Studios) and FIFA Football 2005 (EA SPORTS) made Xbox an irresistible choice for gamers in Europe.
Through the December quarter, Xbox sold 19.9 million consoles worldwide since launch – 13.2 million consoles in North America, 5.0 million consoles in Europe, and 1.7 million consoles in the Japan and Asia Pacific region.
PlayDevil.com reviews Outrun2 on X-Box
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We have just posted our very in-depth review of SEGA's latest arcade racer, "Outrun 2".
Here's a snip from the review:The main purpose of Outrun 2 is just the same like back in 1986. Race with your ferrari to the next checkpoint in order to get more time to race towards the next one. If you didn't reach the appropriate checkpoint in time, it was just GAME OVER. No messing around ... it was over. You just had to start over again from the beginning. Then you had to get faster to your checkpoints so you receive more time then before. There isn't a so-called lives-system or try again mode. No, Outrun (2) was and still isn't a simple game. You will need to have some serious balls in order to complete this game.
Read the full review right here.
GMX confirms Deep Sea Tycoon 2 in development
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GMX Media are today announcing the release of Deep Sea Tycoon 2 for PC CD-ROM on May 27th 2005. Sequel to the best selling underwater title Deep Sea Tycoon – a game that submerged a generation of PC gamers in a world of underwater exploration, strategy and humor.
The new adventure begins deep beneath the ocean waves! Sea life thrives as players are given the opportunity to create an underwater paradise of dreams. Swim with the whales, ride the turtles, play with the dolphins and feed the manatees. With so much to do and see, players can literally lose themselves to the hypnotic sounds and dazzling lights in a world of humour and mouth-watering animation!
“We are always keen to support developers who make good games by fully or partially funding further development projects. Pixel after Pixel has created Deep Sea Tycoon 2 due to overwhelming demand from fans of the first in the series,” commented COO for GMX Media Eugene Perry. “The original Deep Sea Tycoon was a game that took a lot of people by surprise. It captured the imagination with its original gameplay context and unique atmosphere. Deep Sea Tycoon 2 offers a whole new world to explore for the avid underwater gamer!”
“The sequel is a dream – literally,” added producer Tim Whitehurst of Pixel after Pixel. “We wanted to submerge the player in another state of mind, far away from the real world. There’s this fun, hypnotic vibe with the way the game looks and sounds. Gameplay is totally stress-free – you can take your time, chill out and just stay in that zone, building on the dream world. More often than not you’ll find yourself with your jaw dropped open just looking at this thing. It’s a total trip.”
New game features:
· Sea life Galore! Dive into a world of personalities - from thrill seeking humans and playful dolphins to mysterious and majestic whales and other living treasures!
· Epic underwater adventure - Quest through 30 missions from the Caribbean to Hawaii. Stingray City, Turtle Farm, Whale Dive, Dolphin Rides, Manatee Paradise!
· Multiple play modes that will keep you immersed for hours, including great Tutorials and starter levels to get your feet wet!
· Sandbox - Your imagination is the limit! Choose from several undersea environments!
Release Date: May 27th 2005
Fight Night Round 2 will include Super Punch Out from SNES!
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Wednesday, January 26 2005 @ 16:25 CET]
Electronic Arts (NASDAQ: ERTS) and Nintendo announced today that the popular boxing title, Super Punch-Out!!TM for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System, will be included exclusively in the Nintendo GameCubeTM version of EA SPORTSTM Fight Night Round 2. Shipping on March 1, 2005 under the EA SPORTSTM brand, the newest addition in the award-winning EA SPORTS Fight Night series is making its debut on the Nintendo GameCube bundled with an added bonus only available for Nintendo GameCube fans.
The sequel to the best selling boxing title of 2004 will introduce Nintendo GameCube players to the most innovative and realistic boxing video game on the market via EA SPORTS Fight Night Round 2 as well as bring a sense of nostalgia to gamers as they step into the ring with Super Punch-Out!!. Players will also be able to unlock Little Mac from Super Punch-Out!! to duke it out with more than 30 real world boxers featured in EA SPORTS Fight Night Round 2.
"The Punch-Out!! series defined boxing video games," says George Harrison, Nintendo of America's senior vice president of marketing and corporate communications. "We have a new contender in the ring that's changing the face of boxing games. What better way to introduce our Nintendo gamers to EA SPORTS Fight Night Round 2 than allowing gamers to experience two boxing franchises that have had the most impact in this sports genre from the beginning of boxing games to now."
EA SPORTS Fight Night Round 2 introduces exciting new features to the series including the EA SPORTSTM Haymaker, EA SPORTSTM Cutman, a unique create-a-player option and an extensive career mode. The game packs in more fearsome punches and total boxer control so that players can truly dominate the fight inside and outside of the ring.
Namco brings new adventure Arc The Lad
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Leading video games publisher and developer Namco Hometek Inc. announced today it will be continuing the epic Arc The Lad® series this May with the next installment Arc the Lad®: End of DarknessTM for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system.
Arc the Lad®: End of DarknessTM takes place five years after, yet in the same world as Arc the Lad®: Twilight of the SpiritsTM. Players take the role of Edda, a young man whose youth is marked by a "boring island life". His serenity is shattered, however, when he meets Kirika, a rude young woman, on the beach. Shortly after, Edda tries to help a hunter capture vicious criminals, but the latter gets killed. Edda notices Kirika standing nearby, and his suspicions begin to grow about the mysterious young woman. Edda who has awakened as a full-fledged exorcist becomes a hunter himself, and realizing a sense of responsibility to save the weakened world, he sets out on a remarkable journey that will ultimately pit civilization against nature.
The first real-time action-style battle system in the Arc the Lad® series, Arc the Lad®: End of DarknessTM delivers remarkable battle intensity as players perform real-time combat combos, equip items and cast magic. The series that has been highly successful in Japan returns to the US with an improved upgrade and guild system, all the while a deep storyline unfolds that brings the return of 24 favorite characters in the series, each with his or her own unique weaponry and skills.
Take your favorite single player character online in intense match mode battles with up to 8 players (playing 4-on-4), or in a team-based coop mode where teams of 4 proceed through the missions, search for rare items by defeating enemies in dungeons, and chat live. Online exclusive missions are included for a truly unique online experience.
Arc the Lad®: End of DarknessTM is due out this May exclusively for PlayStation®2.
Exclusive Nintendo DS Systems Set Off Celebrity Bidding War
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Three Nintendo DS Units Raise $23,000 for Children's Hospital and Tsunami Relief.
Thanks to a celebrity bidding frenzy, Nintendo DSTM proved to be the talk of the Sundance Film Festival. One-of-a-kind Nintendo DS systems created specifically for the festival were won by comedian Jay Mohr, host of the Sundance Channel's Festival Dailies and the popular show Last Comic Standing, actress Poppy Montgomery, star of the thriller Between, and actor Alan Cumming, also of Festival Dailies and X2: X-Men United. The three won their new custom Nintendo DS units in a silent auction at the Nintendo DS Lounge at the Sundance Film Festival. Mohr, Montgomery and Cumming outbid celebrities like Anthony Anderson of Hustle & Flow, Lisa Kudrow, John Leguizamo, Jason Ritter and Jamie Bell.
Mohr bid a whopping $10,000 for a Nintendo DS with a swirling blue metallic pattern. Nintendo will add $5,000 to his winning bid for a total donation of $15,000 to Mohr's designated charity, St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital in Memphis, Tenn. Montgomery bid $2,500 for a stylish green Nintendo DS with gold graffiti patterns, while Cumming bid $1,500 for a wild copper-and-brown one. Nintendo will match both their bids, and will donate $8,000 to their chosen charitable cause, tsunami disaster relief.
More info on MotoGP 3 for Xbox and PC
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THQ Inc. and Climax are delighted to announce that MotoGP: Ultimate Racing Technology 3 for the Xbox® videogame system from Microsoft and PC will ship with a host of new and original features, designed to reward gamers with the most complete racing experience ever!
TO THE EXTREME
The most significant addition to MotoGP 3 is a brand new Extreme mode that extends the playing experience even further for gamers. Reflecting the current passion for TT-style street racing, this exciting game mode consists of sixteen new city and suburban tracks. Based on actual race locations from around the world, such as the neon-lit streets of Japan and the country roads around Donington UK, these thrilling new tracks offer a unique, demanding and adrenaline-charged challenge that race fans will love.
As well as the new tracks, gamers also have a richer choice of bikes thanks to the addition of sixteen original motorcycles. Modelled on real world bikes, these exclusive two-wheelers range in power from 600cc racers to 1200cc superbikes.
XBOX LIVETM!
Just as MotoGP 3's vast number of bikes and tracks offer individual players unrivalled depth, a range of exclusive online features guarantee multiplayer fans a treat too. In keeping with both companies' commitment to developing innovative games, THQ and Climax have collaborated to realise the full potential of Xbox Live! Going beyond anything previously seen, MotoGP 3 boasts three brand new features – Embedded online gameplay, Spectator mode and Commentator mode – that keep it way ahead of the competition. These online features will also be included in the PC version of the game.
MotoGP 3's embedded online gameplay is an Xbox first and a feature that will have a resounding impact on the way gamers play. Blurring the lines between the single-player and multiplayer modes, this unique feature takes Live! functionality to the next level by allowing players to slip seamlessly from the single-player game to online action. Once connected to Live!, players can progress through their single-player career as normal, but can choose to play each event online should they wish. This seamless transition from single-player to multiplayer makes online gaming an easier and more fulfilling proposition.
The embedded gameplay developed by Climax makes it easier for gamers to get online courtesy of a unique seeding system. This seeding system encourages players to race against opponents of similar or slightly greater skill level while discouraging experienced riders from racing against novices.
As the name suggests, Spectator mode allows players to watch while others are racing. So, rather than patiently waiting in the lobby for others to finish, players can now jump straight into the game and watch races unfold. As well as allowing players to enjoy the sheer thrill of watching a highly-charged race, this unique feature also offers gamers an invaluable opportunity to learn from their competitors.
Another original revolutionary option developed exclusively for MotoGP 3 is the Commentator mode. With this, the host of Live! games can assign a spectating player to commentate on the race action. This hugely innovative feature places players closer to the action and is sure to provide endless entertainment as gamers try their hand at matching the vocal eloquence of the BBC's Suzi Perry!
Take Two purchased Civilization franchise
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-Two Interactive Software, Inc. today announced that it has purchased certain rights to the multi-million unit selling Civilization franchise, and has signed a long-term, multi-title publishing agreement with FIRAXIS Games®, developers of Sid Meier's Alpha Centauri, SimGolf, Gettysburg, Civilization III, Pirates! and other critically acclaimed simulation and strategy games. Kicking off this new partnership will be the highly anticipated Sid Meier's Civilization IV for PC, which will be published by Take-Two's publishing label 2K Games in late 2005, with future expansions and additional PC and console games to follow.
"The Civilization name brings with it an expectation of quality from millions of fans around the world," said Susan Lewis, Vice President of Publishing for 2K Games. "It is a pleasure to be working with a company like FIRAXIS that has developers who have proven with every successive title that they are masters of this genre."
"We are extremely pleased to be partnering with 2K Games on a new journey into the evolving world of Civilization," said Jeff Briggs, Founder, President and CEO of FIRAXIS Games. "2K Games' emergence as a publisher dedicated to producing high-quality, genre-defining games ensures that Civilization IV and FIRAXIS titles will continue to push the creative envelope and reach bigger audiences than ever before."
"In Civilization, we've created a world with endless possibilities that has been embraced by game players all over the globe," said Sid Meier, Director of Creative Development at FIRAXIS Games. "With the upcoming addition of Civilization IV, our core fans and newcomers alike will enter a world of unparalleled scope and detail."
The fourth game in the PC strategy series that has sold over five million copies, Sid Meier's Civilization IV is a bold step forward for the franchise, with spectacular new 3D graphics and all-new single and multiplayer content. Civilization IV will also set a new standard for user-modification, allowing gamers to create their own add-ons using the standard Python and XML scripting languages.
Sid Meier's Civilization IV will be released for PC in late 2005.
EA buys Digital Illusions
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Tuesday, January 25 2005 @ 22:06 CET]
The acceptance period for EA's offer to the shareholders of DICE, made on November 15, 2004, expired on January 20. Shareholders with a total of 3,235,053 shares in DICE(1), including Bonnier & Bonnier AB and DICE employees with significant shareholdings, have accepted EA's offer. This corresponds to 32.0% of the outstanding capital and votes in DICE. In addition to the above-mentioned offer, EA has acquired 898,264 shares in the market corresponding to 8.9% of the capital and votes in DICE.
Together with the 18.9% of the outstanding capital and votes already held by EA, EA now holds a total of 6,044,720 shares, a controlling interest representing 59.8% of the outstanding capital and votes in DICE. Additionally, EA holds warrants in DICE priced at SEK 47.23 which, if exercised, would bring EA's holdings to 67.3% of DICE shares. EA has not yet declared its intentions on whether those warrants will be exercised.
EA declares that the conditions for the tender offer have been fulfilled. Payment of the offer price to shareholders who have tendered their shares pursuant to the offer will commence and the transaction will be completed on or about January 27, 2005.
EA reserves the right to acquire additional shares in DICE in the market. (1) EA has also acquired the 1,500 warrants previously held by an individual in Canada. EA now controls all the 2,329,102 outstanding warrants in Digital Illusions. Each warrant entitles EA to subscribe for one Series A share.
Gallop Racer 2
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ZOO's critically acclaimed horse racing series is back in the lead once again, returning with the long awaited Gallop Racer 2.
The variety of new gaming modes takes Gallop Racer to new heights, with fast-paced arcade style racing combined with tactical management elements creating a surprisingly addictive experience.
Gallop Racer 2 will not only appeal to the racing enthusiast, but also to more casual gamers due to its easy accessibility and multiple play styles. Train the next champion, be the jockey whose career depends on every race and even join the spectators in betting on the outcome.
Features include.
- Race against up to 4 players in Free, Battle and Party Battle modes
- Try and conquer all the toughest races including secret all-star events
- Customisable jockeys that develop and learn new skills as they race
Features over 4,000 new horses and 42 tracks
Gallop Racer 2 will be released on March 12 for Playstation 2.
PlayBoy: The Mansion ships to stores
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Hip Interactive’s wholly owned subsidiary, ARUSH Publishing, in conjunction with Groove Games, today announced that "Playboy: The Mansion" has shipped to retail outlets throughout North America. A lifestyle simulation game that allows players to live the charmed life of Playboy visionary Hugh Hefner, “Playboy: The Mansion” is available for the PlayStation(R)2 computer entertainment system, the Xbox(R) video game system from Microsoft, and PC systems. Developed by Cyberlore Studios, "Playboy: The Mansion" is rated M for Mature by the ESRB and will debut at an MSRP of $49.95 for the PlayStation(R)2 and Xbox(R), and $39.95 for the PC.
“Playboy: The Mansion” lets players assume the identity of the ultimate Playboy, Hugh Hefner. Utilizing a network of world-famous celebrities and beautiful Playmates, gamers throw massive parties in their virtual interpretation of the Playboy Mansion. Hundreds of luxury items and 83 music tracks from emerging and established artists all set the scene for fun and romance, from the grotto to the game room. In addition to showing glamorous guests, including real-life celebrities and Playmates, a good time, the parties serve as an ideal setting for creating the business relationships essential to building an empire. As virtual “Hef,” players call the shots for Playboy Magazine, and even can direct their own photo shoots, selecting the model, outfit, and camera angle to create a truly unforgettable cover or Centerfold. In both the mission-driven “Campaign Mode” that spans more than 50 years of Playboy history, and the open-ended “Empire Mode,” players will collect reward points to unlock the “Playboy Archives”: a full collection of magazine covers, photo shoots, and art straight from the Playboy vault.
“’Playboy: The Mansion’ has been three years in the making and it has finally come to life, thanks to our great partnerships with Playboy Enterprises and Cyberlore,” said Jon Walsh, CEO of Groove Games. “We’ve been fortunate enough to get a taste of what living the Playboy lifestyle is all about, and we can’t wait for gamers around the world to share in the experience.”
For more information on “Playboy: The Mansion,” please visit www.playhef.com.
LucasArts announces new Star Wars PC title
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LucasArts revealed today that it will give PC players the opportunity to control the fate of the galaxy in an all new real-time strategy (RTS) game titled Star Wars®: Empire at WarTM (tentative title). Set a few years before the events of Episode IV A New Hope, the game will let players rewrite history as well as experience the aftermath of Star Wars: Episode III Revenge of the Sith, the creation of the Rebel Alliance, and Darth Vader's rise to power. Star Wars: Empire at War is scheduled for a release in Fall 2005.
Using an entirely new game engine created by the Las Vegas-based developer Petroglyph, the game will feature beautifully rendered land and space battles set on memorable planets such as Hoth, Tatooine and Dagobah as well as never-before-seen environments taken directly from the Star Wars films and expanded universe novels. In the game, players can choose to join either the Rebel Alliance or the Galactic Empire, building and setting up tactical forces that can be unleashed on the enemy in real-time 3D. All of the gameplay and action within Star Wars: Empire at War is a persistent, meaning that strategic and tactical elements from previous events will have a permanent effect on the galaxy.
As players build, manage and progress their space and ground-based units, troops and vehicles, memorable Star Wars hero characters will begin playing a role in key situations. In addition to the single player campaign mode, the game will include a two-player Empire vs. Rebellion mode and up to eight player online skirmish modes. For more assets and information on Star Wars: Empire at War, please visit www.lucasarts.com.
Xbox Announces Euro Release Dates For Two Tecmo Titles
[Category :
Xbox® today announced European release dates for two highly anticipated titles from renowned Japanese games developer Tecmo. The first of the two Xbox exclusive titles to hit European shelves is Project Zero 2, available from 4th February and the sequel to the highly popular survival horror Project Zero. The second title is the latest offering from Team Ninja's popular Japanese fighting series, Dead or Alive Ultimate, which will be available from 18th February.
Gamers will be able to experience the entire history of the DOA series for the first time on a single console. Dead or Alive Ultimate consists of the original Dead or Alive and an "Ultimate" version of Dead or Alive 2, which features stunning visuals. Dead or Alive Ultimate is a fully online 3D fighting game for the Xbox video game system featuring a multitude of online features via Xbox Live, creating the world's largest online community of fighting-game fans.
Xbox owners can also buy the prequel to Project Zero –Project Zero 2: Crimson Butterfly. Taking the chill factor to another level, gamers follow the horrifying journey of Mio and her twin sister, Mayu through a lost village haunted by ghosts. Offering new features such as an additional first person view mode, new costumes, more ghosts, surround sound, sharper visuals and a new survival mode, Project Zero 2 will have gamers trembling for more!
More info on 1944: Battle of the Bulge
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What began with PC real-time tactical Desert Rats vs. Afrika Korps and continued with D-Day is to be concluded with 1944: Battle of the Bulge, as Digital Jesters announces the March release of the third World War II RTS from genre masters Monte Cristo.
1944: Battle of the Bulge uses Digital Reality's acclaimed RTS engine, which has consistently delivered explosive gameplay coupled with historical accuracy.
The game presents this period of the war from opposing perspectives. It starts with the first appearance of the Jagdpanthers at Chaumont – which was when the Allies realised that victory would be not easy to gain. 1944: Battle of the Bulge lets players act against the Brandenburger Regiment, landing behind enemy lines. From there, the game journeys to the River Meuse and to Bastogne, where the Americans launch a counterstrike with the massive force of its air supremacy behind it. The game then continues to Operation Northwind, the last German offensive. 1944: Battle of the Bulge reaches a climax of epic proportions with the Allied attack at the Rhine, ending at the battle of Remagen.
In total, there are 20 new missions, featuring battles from either side of the war. The level maps have been designed with historical accuracy in mind, and created from authentic strategic maps, geographic information and images from the battles themselves. Official records of the war have been consulted closely to ensure that 1944: Battle of the Bulge is the most accurate representation of this period ever created. The inclusion of 10 multiplayer maps will ensure the game's longevity.
Additionally, players will encounter a new feature to the series. This part of World War II was fought in winter, and the game forces strategists to contend with the snowy conditions, which affect troop and vehicle movement. The game also introduces 15 new units to the series to reflect their appearance on the battlefields of the era. For example, players will now be able to command the Nebelwerfer, the SdkFz25 – and the Hummel, among many others.
1944: Battle of the Bulge retailing for an unbelievable £19.99 promises to deliver superb value for money alongside some of the greatest RTS action yet seen on PC CD-ROM.
1944: Battle of the Bulge will be published for PC CD-ROM by Digital Jesters and Monte Cristo in March 2005, priced £19.99.
More info on Boiling Point: Road To Hell
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Atari has released more info regarding their upcoming PC title, "Boiling Point".
Here's more:
STORY OVERVIEW
Boiling Point: Road to Hell is set in the intense tropical heat of the South American jungle, where players take Saul Meyers, a decorated Legionnaire, way beyond the limit of any man's patience. Saul has reached his point of no return - his life threatened, his family compromised – he's a desperate man, ready to take matters to the ultimate extreme to protect the life of his daughter, Lisa.
DRIVING ME CRAZY
Boiling Point: Road to Hell totally immerses players in the South American jungle, an experience which is achieved in a number of ways, with one major aspect being the range of vehicles available to players. There are taxis, civilian vehicles, military vehicles, helicopters, planes and boats; all of which can be used for travel or conflict and all within a seamless environment bigger than the city of Chicago.
TAXI!
Tired of having to walk everywhere? Then why not hail a taxi to make things a little easier. Of course, it will cost a few pesos, but they can always be earned back by running a few errands. Alternatively, players can choose to save their pesos to take a driving test, then buy their own vehicle rather than rely on tracking down a cab on a rainy night in the jungle.
STOP, THIEF!
There is always the possibility that more criminally minded players might decide to specialise in stealing and selling vehicles, but the consequences may not be as favourable as they had hoped. Remember, this is the South American jungle and sometimes people take the law into their own hands... Before stealing vehicles, players should also check they have a full fuel tank. It's no good stealing a tank only to discover that it doesn't even have enough fuel to leave the military compound!
All the road vehicles have their own unique handling, and players will need to refuel and repair them when needed to keep them on the road. Vehicles can also be used for storing and transporting extra weapons and equipment, a feature which players will find very useful.
FLYING HIGH
Boiling Point: Road to Hell also gives players the opportunity to fly helicopters and planes between different points within the seamless environment. Of course, players may choose to use the military helicopters for different purposes than just flying; there might be a grudge that needs settling...
WE ARE SAILING
Well, not exactly sailing, rather being propelled through the piranha infested waters in one of the various boats available to players, including speed boats and larger patrol craft. Boiling Point: Road to Hell has all the vehicles that players would expect from a game set in the South American jungle and it is up to the player how they use the vehicles and which method they choose to get them, legal or otherwise.
Boiling Point: Road to Hell is available across Europe Spring 2005 on PC.
Activision buys Doom3 Xbox developer
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Vicarious Visions, the studio responsible for bringing an expanded version of Doom 3 to the Xbox, has been purchased by its publisher:
The acquisition underscores Activision's strategy to continue building its technical infrastructure in order to take full advantage of the high-growth potential of the next-generation hardware platforms by acquiring technical and design talent with a history of high-quality product creation, while over time enhancing the company's financial operating model.
Under the terms of the agreement, Vicarious Visions' 100-person studio, headquartered in Troy, NY, with offices in Mountain View, C.A, has become a wholly owned subsidiary of Activision. As part of the transaction, Vicarious Visions' management team and key employees have signed long-term employment contracts with Activision.
"We have shared a strong relationship with Activision over the past five years on platforms ranging from Game Boy Color to most recently the Nintendo DS, Xbox and Sony PSP," said Karthik Bala, CEO of Vicarious Visions. "Joining the Activision family seemed like the logical next step and we look forward to continuing to build great games and a great company together."
Call of Duty: United Offensive v1.51b patch
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A new patch, final update, has been released for the game "Call of Duty: United Offensive. This will update your game to version 1.51b and fixes the following:This server-side only patch resolves an exploit that can be used to crash servers and resolves an issue with non-functioning Machine gun on mp_bocage. This is a server side only patch. If you do not plan on hosting a server, there is no need to download and install it.
You can download it right here.
Expansion pack for RollerCoaster Tycoon 3 announced
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The Atari beta testing website revealed a sign up for beta testing the upcoming still unnamed expansion pack for RCT3.
More info on the Atari beta website right here.
12.000 users already banned from Warcraft III
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Battle.net is now reporting that 12,000 users have been banned from Warcraft III for cheating:
A number of additional accounts and CD keys have been tied to the use of a hack or cheat program while playing Warcraft III on Battle.net. In keeping with our aggressive stance against cheating, we have permanently closed 12,000 Warcraft III accounts. 6,000 of the Warcraft III CD keys used with the now-closed accounts have been banned from ladder play for one month, and 1,000 more have been banned from ladder play permanently. Repeat offenders risk having their CD keys disabled, which will result in the permanent removal of their copies of Warcraft III from Battle.net.
PlayDevil.com reviews ZBoard from Ideazon
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Thursday, January 20 2005 @ 22:13 CET]
Finally some of you will say. Indeed we finally managed to get our hardware review online of Ideazon's ZBoard.
Expect also some other hardware reviews soon and yes they will be there a lot faster then before!
Here's a snip from the hardware review:
The Zboard from Ideazon is packaged in a retail cardboard box. It comes pre-packaged with a Microsoft Windows and IE interface so most consumers will already be happy that it will be easier for them to navigate through Windows and Internet Explorer. And gamers will already experience the benefits of the Zboard because Ideazon also included a default gaming keyset.
The retail box also includes a wrist rest (which need to be hooked on the Zboard base), an installation CD and an user guide for the Windows/IE interface.
You can read the entire review right here.
EverQuest II character tool available
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Ubisoft and Sony Online Entertainment Inc. today announce that an EverQuest™II character creation tool is available for players who want to introduce to the world of EverQuest™II.
This tool is free and can be downloaded at this address: http://eq2.ubi.com. The tool sizes 365 Mo and the languages available are English, French and German.
Players will be able to create and save their own hero. Please note that a full version of EverQuest™II (sold separately) is required to use the character.
New Stronghold 2 Gameplay Details
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Take Two Interactive has just released a whole bunch of gameplay details for their upcoming RTS title, "Stronghold 2".
Here are the goods:
Kingmaker mode is an extension of the Skirmish mode Firefly Studios introduced in Stronghold: Crusader. In the Skirmish mode of Crusader, players would build up their castle and then attack their neighbors in an attempt to crush and destroy the opposition. In Stronghold 2, Kingmaker continues this delightful concept, but takes it to the next level.
In Kingmaker, the map is divided up into estates. There are two kinds of these territories: village estates, and castle estates. Village estates can be purchased by spending honor points, which you earn by "living like a lord." So when you do things like hold feasts and jousts, have a wife or attend church, you earn this new resource called honor.
When you add a new estate to your empire, any resources created by that territory get sent back to your main castle via a carter (sent from a Carter's Post, one of the new buildings in Stronghold 2). Smaller village estates are quite useful for setting up external farms, leaving the space within your castle walls free to be used for your war making apparatus. Castle estates are huge structures that are equal to your own, initial castle, and must be taken by force.
So in Kingmaker, you will fight for complete domination of a map, acquiring and losing territories as you fight it out with either computer-controlled or human opponents (up to eight people can play in Stronghold 2 multiplayer matches).
The other new component of Kingmaker is the ability to spend your honor points on promotions. Promotions are Stronghold's take on the "ages" concept from other strategy games. You begin the game as a lowly Freeman, but can advance through the ranks up to a Squire, Knight, Knight Errand, Duke, and eventually become a full-fledged King. Advancing in ranks gives you access to new buildings and units, but where Stronghold 2 differs from other strategy games is that your existing units stay the same.
So in other words, an Archer created by a Squire is the same as an Archer created by a King. So if you want to stop spending your honor points on promotions early on and instead concentrate on acquiring more territories and building up a huge army, you can opt for that instead. It's entirely up to the player.
Territories and promotions will be available in both the regular campaign and Kingmaker mode. The primary difference there is that in the regular campaign, you can't advance any higher than Duke, as there already is a king (and he's perfectly happy in that role thank you very much).
World Tour Soccer 2006 announced for PS2
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Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. announced today that World Tour Soccer 2006 from 989 Sports® will be available in stores this Spring, marking the fourth iteration of the critically acclaimed soccer franchise. Developed exclusively for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system,
World Tour Soccer 2006 features an unprecedented line-up of teams and players from around the globe in order to bring the excitement of the world's most popular sport to the forefront for gamers and soccer fans alike.
Building upon the roots of the franchise, World Tour Soccer 2006, provides gamers with a familiar yet enhanced gameplay experience, complete with even more features, players, teams and stadiums. Highlighted by more than 935 international and club teams from around the globe, along with an astounding 19,000 FIFPro licensed players from 32 different leagues, eight international tournaments and 28 unique stadiums, the global game of soccer has been recreated with exceptional detail in order to capture its enormous scope and popularity.
To enhance the experience on the virtual pitch,
World Tour Soccer 2006 features EyeToyTM functionality and the all-new DigimaskTM technology. Utilizing the EyeToy USB camera (for PlayStation 2), sold separately, gamers can take snapshots of themselves and literally get into the game. Once the player has taken their self-portraits, Digimask technology converts the high-resolution images of a gamer's head into a full 3D model so that they can personally battle against the world's best.
World Tour Soccer 2006, the most realistic soccer simulation to date, allows gamers to choose from multiple modes of play including Exhibition Match, Season, Career and Challenge Mode, giving players the option of playing a quick game or the opportunity to play out a grueling season where they'll have to manage player contracts, trades, salary caps and injuries.
Additionally, World Tour Soccer 2006 offers hard- core soccer enthusiasts a Competition Mode, in which players can create their own Custom Cup or Custom League to their exact specifications, all while highlighting their own Custom Team. With successful play, gamers will be able to unlock hidden teams, stadiums, and cheats to help fill up their trophy cabinet with any of the 49 available trophies.
Flashpoint Germany has gone GOLD
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Matrix Games (www.matrixgames.com) announced today that the tactical wargame Flashpoint Germany has officially "Gone Gold" and is set for release sometime next week. The game will be available both via CD and download from the Matrix Games website.
Flashpoint Germany takes you back to the height of the cold war where tensions run tighter than a clock-spring. This time the peace-talks have failed. The world as we know it stands on the brink of World War 3 as the two super powers of NATO and the Soviet Warsaw Pact square off in a modern tactical simulation of what could have been.
Take command as general of either side's forces and employ tactics and strategies for modern warfare including air strikes, minefields, artilleries, chemical weapons, and of course, tactical nuclear warheads. With a complete database of accurate equipment and unit types, comprising over 170 different units, 195 platforms or vehicles, and 112 different weapons, Flashpoint Germany gives you the final say in how the Cold War could have ended.
David Heath, Director of Operations at Matrix Games, said, "Flashpoint Germany takes tactical war gaming to a place rarely ventured to by game companies. The Cold War marked a 45 year period during which the smallest wrong step could have led to world-wide disaster. We are pleased to present this 'what if' scenario that puts the player in the role of a brigade or battalion commander with some of the deadliest conventional forces ever assembled."
Flashpoint Germany spans 17 different scenarios and comes complete with a scenario editor, order of battle guide and equipment database. Additionally, players can play online, by e-mail, or against a competitive computer opponent. Each battle map is a detailed representation of the German landscape, representing the actual terrain that would have influenced battles throughout West Germany.
Hip Interactive and Kuju Ent for George A Romero game
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Hip Interactive today announced that its fast-growing publishing division, Hip GamesTM, has signed an agreement with Kuju Entertainment (AIM: KUJ) for the development of the first game based on the work of popular cult horror director George A. Romero. The game, the name of which has yet to be announced, will be developed for consoles and PC at Kuju's development studio in Surrey, United Kingdom and is expected to be part of Hip's next fiscal year ending March 31, 2006.
"With George A. Romero's cult status and following among horror fans, a property of this pedigree deserves a first class developer and that is exactly what horror fans will get now that we've signed high profile developer Kuju Entertainment," said Arindra Singh, President and Chief Executive Officer of Hip Interactive Corp.
Ian Baverstock, Business Development Director and co-founder of Kuju Entertainment, said, "Our spines are tingling in anticipation. George A. Romero is recognized as one of the leading directors in the horror world. We're excited to be translating the zombies and terror created in George's imagination into an atmospheric gorefest for game players." He continued, "We're also extremely pleased to be working with Hip Interactive, which has become a publishing force to be reckoned with."
Hip Interactive recently announced the signing of an agreement with Living Dead Productions Limited to produce a George A. Romero series of videogames. Romero's work has a massive, worldwide cult following and has established him as the "Master of Gore."
Second Sight coming in February for PC
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Prepare for a psychic blast on PC as Second Sight, the first PC title from Free Radical Design, the creators of the TimeSplitters series, arrives in February.
Glimpse the future of stealth action gaming in the new PC video now at www.codemasters.co.uk/secondsight (in Downloads).
Delivering a gripping playing experience, Second Sight combines an atmospheric, thriller narrative with paranormal psychic abilities, stealthy exploration and intense shooter action.
Lead John Vattic, a former researcher, as he attempts to unravel a mystery that led to his imprisonment in a maximum security Medical Research Facility. As he makes his escape, Vattic discovers that he is empowered with amazing psychic abilities, capable of manipulating people and the surrounding environment.
Providing a totally fresh play dynamic, gameplay offers multiple approaches to completing levels either via stealth, dramatic gunplay, psychic powers or a combination of all three.
Thanks to an incredibly realistic freeform physics engine, Vattic's psychic powers enable him to perform supernatural moves. Levitate an unconscious guard, using telekinesis to send him flying across the room or use Psi Pulse to send a ball of psychic energy hurtling towards opponents.
For a subtler approach there are abilities such as Projection: send an ethereal version of Vattic, invisible to enemies, ahead to scout areas. Use Possession to take control of a guard's body and make him do the hard work for you!
Vattic can even Charm opponents, tricking their mind into believing he's not there. Throughout, however, keep a careful eye on the balance of Vattic's health and psychic power – the more you do, the more it dissipates.
As a new landmark in stealth action and an exceptional project from Free Radical Design, Codemasters will publish the PC edition of Second Sight in February. See what the future holds with the new PC video, now available from www.codemasters.co.uk/secondsight
Willofsteel.com has gone online
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GMX Media are today announcing the launch of the official GMX Will of Steel website. Packed full of images, movies, artwork and gameplay information – the site will soon be a major bookmark for real time strategy fans across the globe!
Find out more about Will of Steel at :
www.willofsteel.com
“Willofsteel.com is a feature packed website designed to further highlight what is set to be one of the top military RTS titles for PC in 2005.” Commented COO for GMX Media Eugene Perry. “The game is now in its final stages of development and its looking astonishing. With just a month before release, we have ample time to test the product and put the finishing touches in place before going gold!”
THE GAME:
Will of Steel is a modern warfare tactical 3D Real Time Strategy game set in the early 1990s. As a young Marine officer, William Steel is the son of the highly decorated USMC General Thomas Steel. Players must assume command and responsibility of the battalion at his control and defeat your opposing in forces in hostile locations around the globe.
At the players disposal will be infantry, battle tanks, armoured personnel carriers, recon units and many other types of military hardware. The player must make wise military choices and decide how to adjust his/her actions to counteract the strategy employed by the enemy forces in Afghanistan and Iraq. Through the use of dynamic Sun, missions unfold from dawn to dusk with a number of climate conditions, such as rain and fog, that may help or hinder your battle progress.
Throughout the game, the player also strives to improve his/her career. By winning medals and being promoted, various special options are revealed that he/she can use in battle.
More info on the above website.
Microsoft announces full details of Forza Motorsport
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Microsoft Game Studios today announced the complete car roster for its highly anticipated and critically acclaimed driving simulator for Xbox, Forza Motorsport. Slated to hit store shelves this April, Forza Motorsport will debut with more than 230 cars from over 40 of the world's top car manufacturers for gamers to own, customise, upgrade and race.
Forza Motorsport Final Car Roster:
1967 AC Shelby Cobra
1997 Acura NSX
2001 Acura Integra Type-R
2002 Acura RSX Type-S
2003 Acura 3.2 CL Type S
2004 Acura NSX
2002 Acura #42 RealTime Racing NSX SC Driven by Peter Cunningham
2001 Aston Martin V12 Vanquish
2005 Aston Martin DB9 Coupe
2001 Audi 2002 Infineon R8
2004 Audi S4
2004 Audi TT Coupe 3.2 quattro
2000 Audi S4
2003 Audi RS 6
2002 Audi #1 Champion Audi Racing S4 Competition Driven by Michael Galati
2003 Audi #1 Champion Audi Racing RS 6 Driven by Michael Galati
2002 Audi Le Mans #38 Champion AudiR8
2001 Audi Le Mans #4 Johansson Motorsport R8
2004 Audi #8 24h Nürburgring TT-R
2004 Bentley Continental GT
2003 Bentley #7 Team Bentley Speed 8
...
This is only a small grap of the full 230 cars that will be playable once the full game is released.
PlayDevil.com gots NEW Stolen PS2 screens
[Category :
Indeed, Hip Games have send us some very new screenshots of their upcoming adventure / tactics title, "Stolen" for the PS2.
Here's a small snippet of the upcoming game:
In “Stolen” players take control of Anya Romanov a sexy high-tech professional thief; who is caught in a world of crime and corruption where heroes are found on the wrong side of the law. Using the mechanics of stealth and athleticism, players lead Anya on an adventure spanning 4 massive locations. With its unique subject matter “Stolen” will captivate gamers as they play the role of a Hollywood-style thief breaking into movie-like locations to steal priceless items, using an arsenal of hi-tech gadgets and weaponry. Developed by Blue 52, "Stolen” with be available on PlayStation (R) 2, Xbox (R) and PC-CD ROM on March 22nd, 2005.
You can view those new shots right here.
New Games Arrived @ the PlayDevil.com Office
[Category :
We have received a few new games this week for reviewing.
These are:
- Prince of Persia: Warrior Within (X-Box and PC)
- Fifa 2005 (X-Box)
and just today we got from Nintendo the long awaited GC title:
- The Legend of Zelda: Four Swords Adventures (with GC-GBA cable)
- Castlevania (NES Classics)
Release date of Cossacks II: Napoleonic Wars
[Category :
Cossacks II: Napoleonic Wars - Release Date Announced
BASINGSTOKE, ENGLAND (DECEMBER 13TH 2004) – CDV SOFTWARE ENTERTAINMENT AG are pleased to announce the UK launch date of the highly anticipated PC CDROM grand strategy title; Cossacks II: Napoleonic Wars. Set for launch APRIL 2005, armchair generals will be able to immerse themselves in all the pomp and circumstance of the Napoleonic era, as Cossacks II: Napoleonic Wars sets a defining milestone in grand strategy gaming, as the definitive Napoleonic strategy experience.
A few selected strategy games like COSSACKS have achieved such an upheaval in the gaming community. For people all over the world, the strategy hit of Ukrainian Developer GSC is the paramount of real time strategy. With worldwide sales now in excess of 2.5 million copies sold, COSSACKS is the most successful title in CDV Software Entertainment AG's history.
Eric Standop, Marketing and PR Director: "It is fascinating to see how many people have flocked to the banner of COSSACKS. With the upcoming release of "COSSACKS II - Napoleonic Wars", we will finally be able to satisfy the desire for a worthy successor. We are sure that COSSACKS II will set new standards and we're looking forward to see the community grow."
Plextor will offer free FW-upgrade for PX-716 with 6x DL !
[Category :
Plextor has announced a free firmware upgrade to support increased writing speeds for its recently launched PX-716 Double Layer drive.
The firmware makes Plextor the first and currently the only company to launch a drive capable of 6x DVD+R DL and 6x DVD-R DL dual layer writing speeds. For increased flexibility, 8x writing on DVD+RW media and additional support for 16x writing on DVD +/-R has been added. The new upgrade is available to all buyers of the internal PX-716A and external PX-716UF drives.
The new features will be available on Plextor’s website www.plextor-europe.com from the following dates.
Middle of January, firmware 1.04 will be released to support:
• 2x writing on DVD-R DL media
• 6x writing on DVD+R DL media
• 8x writing on DVD+RW media
• Support additional 16x media*
Beginning of March, firmware 1.05 will be released to support:
• 6x writing on DVD-R DL media
Atari announces Timeshift for PC and X-Box
[Category :
today announced that TimeShift, an innovative first-person shooter in which players control time to complete missions and defeat foes, is in development by Saber Interactive for the personal computer and the Xbox® video game system from Microsoft. TimeShift will leverage first-of-its-kind gameplay abilities and functionality, the latest graphics technology, and high production values to create a truly unique action game experience that is expected to be available in autumn 2005.
“TimeShift represents a totally new take on a massive gaming genre, and underlines Atari’s dedication, alongside that of Saber Interactive, to pushing the boundaries of what games can offer,” Martin Spiess, Senior Vice President of Marketing, Atari Europe. “TimeShift challenge players to use their wits and time-bending abilities as well as their formidable weaponry to complete the missions. Integrating the fourth dimension – time – into the fabric of the gameplay will shift perceptions of what a first-person shooter can be.”
TimeShift empowers players with the gift of time manipulation, including the ability to slow down, stop and rewind the world around them, allowing them to move freely while opponents and game objects are frozen in time. Featuring time control as an integral part of gameplay, TimeShift takes first-person action games in an entirely new direction.
Saber Interactive’s proprietary Saber3D game engine includes groundbreaking graphics technology, such as normal mapping to create amazingly high-detailed textures and characters, as well as advanced parallax lighting, allowing for realistic depth to environmental textures. The game engine will also incorporate futuristic physics technology for in-game objects and characters. TimeShift will also provide an added level of immersion with a deep and engrossing storyline created by a renowned Hollywood writer and director that incorporates a fantastic vision of our world existing within an alternate timeline.
TimeShift will feature more than 30 combat missions, each showcasing time control elements and challenges that players must complete using both their extraordinary capabilities and combat expertise. An array of devastating and unique weaponry from the world’s alternate timeline will be at the player’s disposal, including bizarre incarnations of traditional sniper guns, machine guns, pistols and more, as well as never-before-imagined armaments from an era humanity has never seen.
Developed by New Jersey-based Saber Interactive, TimeShift is expected to be available on personal computer and Xbox in autumn 2005.
Animation movie Madagascar is coming
[Category :
Based on the highly anticipated animated feature film from DreamWorks, MadagascarTM is the only game that lets players enter the world of four hilarious Central Park Zoo animals—a personality-packed crew made up of a lion, zebra, giraffe and hippo. Players must master each animal's natural skills while adventuring through the exciting city of New York and the dangerous island of Madagascar, interacting with other animals and tackling obstacles and enemies in scenarios from the movie and beyond.
KEY FEATURES:
The Only Game that Lets Players Relive the Film and Beyond — Fighting for survival has never been this much fun. Players control one of four main characters from the movie – Alex the lion, Marty the zebra, Gloria the hippo and Melman the giraffe as they overcome obstacles, interact with film and game-exclusive characters, and face off against enemies.
Get Your Groove on as You Go — Players develop new skills as they take the role of each zoo animal, helping Alex maximize the power of his claws, roar and pounce; pumping up Marty's jump, back kick and stealth crawl; learning Gloria's butt smash and running barrel move; and perfecting Melman's helicopter spin and ammo-throwing neck fling, which he uses to launch coconuts and lemurs.
Rock the city and rule the jungle — Players test their animal abilities as they explore a variety of diverse environments in mini-games and 11 action-packed chapters, including "Marty's Escape" from the Central Park Zoo, "Penguin Mutiny" on board a giant cargo ship, and "Lemur Rave" with the exotic animals in the jungles of Madagascar.
The Fun is Never Done — Players can improve their performance as they replay chapters and unlock character-specific bonuses and cheats.
Release Date: May 2005
Platform:
PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system/
Xbox® video game system from Microsoft/
Nintendo GameCubeTM/Game Boy® Advance/ Nintendo DS®/PC
EA brings EA Sports Rugby 2005
[Category :
Electronic Arts today announced that EA SPORTSTM Rugby 2005 is under development as the newest ongoing franchise in the EA SPORTSTM lineup, heralding the sport's emergence as a global phenomenon. The game, which features a host of gameplay and graphical upgrades, will deliver an authentic rugby experience and is scheduled for release in spring 2005 for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, the Xbox® videogame system from Microsoft, and the PC.
"EA SPORTS is committed to making the most complete and authentic rugby game possible," said Andrew Wilson, producer of the game. "By leveraging our sports technology and experience to create EA SPORTS Rugby 2005, we feel we can grow a successful interactive franchise for one of the fastest growing sports in the world."
EA SPORTS Rugby 2005 incorporates all the major Rugby teams, players, and tournaments, including the Tri-Nations, Super 12 and many more authentic and prestigious events from the world of Rugby. The game incorporates a completely upgraded graphical engine with individually differentiated players, realistic motion-captured player animations, dramatic lighting and cameras, and stadiums that are accurate with details such as crowd reactions, songs, and chants. EA SPORTS Rugby 2005 plays realistically with on-the-fly play-calling, right analog stick controls for fakes and crushing hits and improved kicking control. The game also features a 'Rugby 101' training mode outlining the rules, controls, and tactics of the sport through videos and interactive challenges.
SEGA will publish the ultimate Samurai Fighting game
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SEGA Europe Ltd, today announced they would be publishing Blood Will Tell, a modern-day action epic for the PS2, adapted from the classic Manga tale by Osamu Tezuka (creator of Astro Boy). Blood Will Tell delivers the ultimate samurai fighting experience, for one or two players, with intense 3D action from one of Japan's most celebrated storytellers.
"This Manga inspired fighting game has all the look and feel of a martial arts epic," said Mike Hayes, Managing Director of Sega Europe Ltd. "Players will find themselves immersed in an expansive, detailed 3D environment where puzzle solving and swordplay go hand-in-hand"
Sticking closely to the original Manga story, the game follows the adventures of a young man called Hyakkimaru, a tortured Samurai warrior on a quest to uncover his past and regain his missing body parts. As a newborn baby he was robbed of every limb, organ, sense and even his ability to cry. The young warrior struggled for survival, having had his missing limbs replaced with lethal weapons, beginning a quest to try and regain his natural form and destroy the fiends who robbed him of a normal life.
Players can choose to do battle with various weapons, such as blades embedded inside Hyakkimaru's arms, a bazooka hidden inside his leg, or weapons that are found during the course of the adventure. At every step of the way Hyakkimaru's friend Dororo will be there to help, guide and fight alongside him as he explores and unravels the mystery of his past.
Blood Will Tell is slated for release across Europe in February 2005.
Age of Empires III announced for 2005 release
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Microsoft Game Studios and Ensemble Studios are proud to announce the return of the king of real-time strategy games: Age of Empires III is scheduled to ship in the second half of 2005. This will be the latest landmark release in the award-winning franchise that has sold a staggering 16 million units worldwide.
Age of Empires III will offer gamers the next level of realism, with advanced battle physics and unparalleled visual detail. The new game picks up where Age of Empires II: Age of Kings left off, placing gamers in the position of a European power determined to explore, colonize and conquer the New World. This time period features stunning scenes, from towering European cathedrals to courageous tribes of Native Americans, and spectacular combat with Industrial Age units like rifled infantry, cavalry and tall ships bristling with cannons.
Age of Empires III will once again demonstrate Ensemble Studios' reputation for excellence and innovation in the real-time strategy (RTS) genre. The game will set a new standard for visual quality and amaze players with detail never before seen in an RTS. Age of Empires III will also excite strategy gamers with new game-play elements, including the concept of a "Home City," new civilizations, units, technologies and an immersive new single-player campaign that will span three generations.
For images and more information about Age of Empires III, please go to www.ensemblestudios.com.
EA and Nintendo together with NBA Street V3
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Electronic Arts and Nintendo announced today a partnership that brings the Nintendo All-Stars – MarioTM, Luigi and Princess Peach – to the Nintendo GameCubeTM version of NBA STREET V3, scheduled to launch in February under the EA SPORTS BIGTM brand. The game is being produced by Electronic Arts Canada, the studio that also is home to the industry-leading NBA LIVE and NCAA® March Madness® hoops video game franchises.
Featuring today's biggest NBA stars, a collection of the league's all-time greats, a Hall of Fame cast of past STREET characters, and now, for the first time ever, Mario, Luigi and Princess Peach, NBA STREET V3 is non-stop, action-packed fun. Mario, Luigi and Princess Peach are available to play as the Nintendo All-Stars team, while they are also available to compete individually in NBA STREET V3's new slam dunk contest.
"We're very excited to be able to incorporate the Nintendo All-Stars, as well as their own authentic Nintendo court, into NBA STREET V3," said V3 executive producer Wil Mozell. "There's nothing quite like seeing Mario, Luigi and Peach taking the over-the-top gameplay of NBA STREET V3 to the extreme as they square off against some of today's top NBA stars and all-time greats."
"Nintendo's characters have always proved they can compete on the world stage," says George Harrison, Nintendo of America's senior vice president of marketing and corporate communications. "Now they'll show that they can compete on the streets as well."
The highly-anticipated third chapter in the multi-platinum-selling series expands on the fast-paced and larger-than-life game play that has made the franchise a hit. The all-new Trick Stick and interactive Gamebreaker control elevates the game to new heights with unmistakable style and attitude. NBA STREET V3 is also packed with highly detailed authentic street courts, deep player customization options, and new Court Creator. Screen shots of the game can be found at http://info.ea.com.
Nintendo DS boosts power after a powerful holiday season
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The video game industry closed 2004 with a rush to portable game systems, and especially a rush to Nintendo DSTM. The new year starts much the same way, with the 1.3 million new Nintendo DS owners in North America experiencing games and interacting with one another in ways never before possible. From the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, Nintendo announces that new games planned for the first quarter of 2005 will expand this community even more by demonstrating that there's more to hand-held video games than pretty pictures.
"Publishers and game players have only just begun to tap the potential of Nintendo DS," says George Harrison, Nintendo of America's senior vice president of marketing and corporate communications. "2005 will continue the excitement we've experienced in 2004."
The trend in consumer electronics is for music players, telephones and all manner of organizers to become portable, and video games are no exception. The future of video games will be characterized by innovation – by which games and systems can give players the best adventures and the newest ways to play. The dual-screened Nintendo DS defines this trend with a touch screen, wireless communication and voice recognition. Nintendo DS represents a third, distinct product line for Nintendo, and it's the cornerstone of Nintendo's approach to the future.
Publishers have more than 120 games planned for Nintendo DS. Key titles due in 2005 include Need for Speed UndergroundTM 2 from Electronic Arts, WarioWareTM: Touched!, Pokémon® Dash and Yoshi Touch & GoTM from Nintendo and Retro Atari ClassicsTM from Atari. Thanks to backward compatibility with Game Boy® Advance SP titles, Nintendo DS already boasts a library of more than 500 games.
Otogi 2 - Immortal Warriors published by Sega
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SEGA Europe Ltd, today announced the Xbox version of the sequel to the critically acclaimed fighting game Otogi, released in September 2003. This highly anticipated follow up should be picking a fight in Europe some time in February 2005.
"SEGA Europe are going to treat Xbox owners to this high-octane, hardcore fighting game from Japan," commented Mike Hayes, Managing Director of Sega Europe Ltd. "Otogi 2 is the sequel to the highly acclaimed original game we handled back in 2003. We feel the recent resurgence in martial arts movies will draw Xbox owners to this fantastic fighting game"
Developed by From Software (Armoured Core, Lost Kingdoms) and published by SEGA, this lavish, action-packed sequel looks set to surpass its predecessor in every way possible. Once again this visually stunning fighting frenzy draws heavily on its martial art movie inspirations. Players will experience overwhelmingly elaborate fight scenes packed with eye-popping special fight effects.
The storyline centres on a legendary warrior known as Raikoh, the hero from the first game. Although Raikoh destroyed the demons threatening his home in the original game, evil is rising once again. This resurgence on evil prompts Seimei, a female sorceress to devote the lives of four warriors to bring back Raiko once again. With these warriors by his side Raikoh leads a powerful, supernatural team, setting the scene for a serious battle between good and evil on the streets of the capital.
As this epic tale unravels the challengers get harder and harder as player's fighting skills are well and truly put to the test. With superior graphics, weapons and warriors, Otogi 2 pushes the limits of the Xbox to bring players a spellbinding tale of bone crunching combat, and jaw-dropping destruction.
Otogi 2 – Immortal Warriors is slated for release across Europe in February 2005.
Castlevania returns on Nintendo's DS
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Konami's renowned Castlevania series to make its debut on Nintendo DS system
Konami of Europe today unveiled a new Castlevania game for the Nintendo DSTM. Set in the year 2036, the newest title in the series continues the storyline that first emerged in the critically acclaimed Castlevania®: Aria of SorrowTM for the Nintendo Game Boy AdvanceTM. While the new 2D side scrolling action game will contain all the classic gameplay that fans of the series have come to expect, Castlevania for Nintendo DS (working title) will also incorporate innovative gameplay elements that take full advantage of the portable system's powerful new technology.
Taking place a year after Aria of Sorrow, the game's protagonist – Soma Cruz – finds himself at the center of a mysterious cult's plan to resurrect their evil lord and master, Dracula. In order to save himself and protect the lives of those he loves, Soma Cruz must infiltrate the enemy's home base, a towering replica of Dracula's castle that is teaming with monstrous creatures. Players' abilities grow and develop as they collect items and gather experience points by defeating enemies.
In their quest to defeat enemies, players will utilize completely original gameplay concepts that leverage the Nintendo DS' Touch Screen technology. One example of this new technology is Castlevania for Nintendo DS' "Magic Seal" system. By using the stylus directly on the screen, players must connect a series of symbols in the proper order to unlock an enchanted opening and disperse their enemy's magic into it when they are weakened.
Also aiding them in their battle against dark forces is the ability to collect the souls of their enemies to gain powerful new attacks and skills. The new Castlevania for Nintendo DS takes advantage of the Nintendo DS' Wireless Connection, letting players exchange and/or trade acquired souls to enhance their characters' strength. An incredibly moving musical score, visually stunning graphics and imaginative special effects round out this uniquely innovative gaming experience.
Created by Koji Igarashi and the creative team behind the critically acclaimed classic Castellanies: Aria of Sorrow, the new Castlevania for Nintendo DS is scheduled for release in Europe in Autumn, 2005
Hearts of Iron 2 release date
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Paradox Interactive proudly announced today that their much-awaited sequel to the multiple award-winning Hearts of Iron II will launch in the UK on 18th February 2005. Exclusively distributed in the UK by KOCH Media, HoI2 will be priced at £29.99 on PC CDROM.
"A strong vision for this sequel combined with feedback from our players has given us a product we are immensely proud of. We believe this could be our best strategy title released to date", says Fredrik Lindgren, Director of Sales and Marketing for Paradox Interactive. "Most of the basic elements have been changed to make the game smoother and give the player a better gaming experience. Our goal for Hearts of Iron 2 has been to make it easier to learn yet harder to master"
Hearts of Iron II comes with a completely re-worked interface, 19 battle scenarios, 14,000 leaders and generals and the co-operative multiplayer feature adds a new dimension to the game play. The in-depth manual and tutorial will ease new players into the game.
Happy 2005!
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Ok a bit late but nevertheless we hope you had a very very pleasant New Years Eve and may 2005 bring you more joy then 2004.
We had a blast of fun of the latest day of 2004 and that is probably also the reason why we haven't updated the site with any news, until now.
Anyway according to our release shedules 2005 will still be a very good year for gaming. A lot of good games will come out and most importantly, Nintendo's new handheld Nintendo DS will see the light in Europe this March and Sony's PSP will probably arrive by that time too.
While we are all awaiting those new hardware products you will be surprised by our own in-house REVIEW of Sony's PSP! Exactly, like Jochen already told you we managed to acquire a Japanese PSP with a few JAP games! So we will bring you all the goods before its actual European release date.
Also LOGIC3 and Ideazon's Zboard review are being worked on as I write this so expect those soon too.
We also want to ask everyone who read this to visit our guestbook (here) and write something in it. Let us know what you think of PlayDevil.com, what we could do better or what you like or simply ... whatever!
That's about it. Enjoy this sunny sunday and stay tuned for more news.
And again a happy 2005!
Cheers.