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] [Posted by Bjorn on Wednesday, January 31 2007 @ 13:49 CET]Blazing Angels: Secret Missions Announced
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Today Ubisoft, one of the world's largest video game publishers, announced that Blazing Angels® Secret Missions will launch on the Xbox 360(TM) video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and Games 4 Windows®. Scheduled for a spring 2007 release, Blazing Angels® Secret Missions is the follow-up to the squadron-based flight combat game Blazing Angels® Squadrons of WWII.
Blazing Angels® Secret Missions shows World War II from a different perspective - that of an elite pilot who is part of a secret team. In the game, the player will undertake some of the most dangerous missions in exotic locations all over the globe. As an elite pilot, the player goes from one great adventure to another, while battling the most lethal experimental weapons of the Third Reich. The squad's mission is to prevent the ultimate weapon from being built. To help players in this quest, they have at their disposal an assortment of highly experimental aircraft and weaponry. Blazing Angels® Secret Missions comes straight out of the history books of World War II's most top secret projects.
Key features of Blazing Angels® Secret Missions include:
Living, Breathing World - Built on all-new, cutting-edge visual technology, the world of Secret Missions is more believable and involving than ever. Fly above hills and mountains, navigate through treacherous mountain passes and dogfight in the clouds with enemies. Take part in large-scale battles through various conditions: darkness, rain, snow, and air turbulence.
Diverse and Unusual Scenarios - Secret Missions takes players around the world, from Paris, Rome and Moscow to exotic locations like Rangoon and Cairo and the highest mountain ranges of the Himalayas. Each mission will bring its own surprises, twists and unique challenges.
Prototype Technology - Players will have access to some of the most advanced and unusual aircraft and weapons of WWII, as well as access to a huge assortment of weapons, including high-velocity cannons and early guided missiles.
Fast Paced Multiplayer Action - Multiplayer features free-for-all, co-op and squad-based play, including the brand new Capture the Flag and Epic Battle modes, the latter pitting two teams of players against each other in a large-scale battle with conquerable bases and objectives that can be destroyed in order to gain the upper hand on the opponent.
Saints Row is coming to the PlayStation 3 !!
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Wednesday, January 31 2007 @ 13:44 CET]
THQ Inc. today announced its critically acclaimed, next-generation property Saints Row™ is scheduled to make its PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system debut this spring, featuring stunning next-generation graphics, extensive customization options and unparalleled player choice.
Developed by renowned internal studio Volition, Inc., Saints Row brings the hugely popular open-world genre to Sony’s new console for the first time and will mark the first open world online experience available through the PLAYSTATION® Network.
“Saints Row has established itself as one of the most successful original properties in next generation gaming, and we’re excited to bring the groundbreaking experience to PLAYSTATION 3 system fans worldwide,” said Kelly Flock, executive vice president of worldwide publishing, THQ. “Bringing the open-world genre to the PLAYSTATION 3 system for the first time will help grow the Saints Row fan base and expand the open-world online community.”
Ubisoft to bring Top Trumps brand to Europe
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Wednesday, January 31 2007 @ 12:52 CET]
Today Ubisoft, one of the world's largest video game publishers, announced a publishing deal with Ironstone Partners to bring the highly successful Top Trumps® brand to the video gaming market in March 2007.
Top Trumps, from Winning Moves, is a card-based game which gained popularity in the 1970's and 80's and combines luck, strategy and subject knowledge in a game-concept that has hooked children for several generations. Packs start from £2.49 retail and sales in the UK hit £18 Million last year. The brand has enjoyed many years of success with a strong licensing programme which includes brands such as Marvel, Star Wars, Harry Potter and recently, Doctor Who and is featured in over 10,000 retail outlets in the UK.
The partnership with Ubisoft ensures that Top Trumps will receive optimal sales, marketing and distribution support when the first titles come to market in quarter one, 2007.
Ironstone will develop games for the Sony PlayStation®2 (PS2), Nintendo DS™ and PC gaming platforms and will initially feature brand new proprietary Top Trumps characters.
Rob Cooper UK managing director at Ubisoft said "Top Trumps has wonderful brand heritage and is a mainstay in the toy sector. We're delighted to team up with Ironstone on this range and are looking-forward to strong sales".
Paul Gouge managing director at Ironstone commented, "Ubisoft are a major success story in the video game market and their track record and experience in this sector are key to maximising the success of our Top Trumps licensed video games. We're delighted to partner with them for this key launch."
Review of TrackClip PRO from NaturalPoint ONLINE !
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Wednesday, January 31 2007 @ 12:09 CET]
After our review of the excellent Tracking motion software 'TrackIr 4 PRO', manufacturer "NaturalPoint" now comes up with something totally new.
The TrackClip Pro is a device to clip onto your headphone and delivers the same motion tracking like the hat.
Now you can wear your favourite 5.1 headphone and attach this device for motion tracking in games.
But does it work ? Find out in our review of the "TrackClip PRO" right here.
Official Add-On announced for The Guild 2
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Wednesday, January 31 2007 @ 12:07 CET]
Developer 4Head Studios, Publisher JoWooD Productions and Co-Publisher Deep Silver are hereby fulfilling a wish that has been emerging in the community since the release of the very first „Guild“ game. Now the time has come – the waves are waiting!
„With „The Guild 2 - Pirates of the European Seas“ , a new „The Guild“ gameplay is coming, providing exciting new opportunities to the players. We are sure that this step fits to the needs and desires of the customers, ensuring the further success of the franchise.“ comments Stefan Berger, Head of Product Management, JoWooD Productions.
“The AddOn will be eagerly awaited by the gamers because it offers something completely new to the world of “The Guild”. The expansion will continue the success of “The Guild 2” into the year 2007 and will be accompanied by appropriate marketing actions.“ says Georg Larch, Head of Marketing Koch Media.
In addition to the new main features seatrade and seabattle, the AddOn also comes with three new maps, a thrilling campaign including more than 10 hours of gameplay and of course ships, new buildings and professions. And the new gameplay at sea opens also the gate to some very special aspect of intrigues and sabotage...
“The Guild 2 – Pirates of the European Seas”: Official Release Q2 2007.
Official Ship Simulator Add-on gone gold
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Leading entertainment software publisher Lighthouse Interactive today announced that the official add-on for their revolutionary simulation game 'Ship Simulator 2006', has gone gold. The add-on is set to 'ship' into the UK and Scandinavian territories around February 16th 2007.
Lighthouse Interactive CEO Erik Schreuder said: "We're very proud to present this add-on for what has been a very good title for our company and for boating enthusiasts. We are certain it will offer fans of the growing Ship Simulator franchise an even greater simulation experience." VSTEP director Pjotr van Schothorst adds: "We listened well to the wishes of our customers. They often asked for a big cruise liner and modern cargo ship, so we created these in the add-on pack. They wanted the freedom to walk around on ships, so we added that feature to the new ships."
About Ship Simulator
Ship Simulator is a revolutionary simulation game that puts players at the helm of some of the most varied and detailed ships to be found at sea, where they will need to perform a multitude of tasks, all set within a stunning 3D environment. Players will take control of a wide array of ship types, from massive cargo ships to speedboats.
The Official Add-On for the acclaimed hit Ship Simulator 2006 gives ship simulation enthusiasts a variety of new features to enhance their experience of the best selling title as well as 6 completely new vessels (including a giant line cruiser).
Atari announces development of Godzilla: Unleashed for Wii, DS and PSP !
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Atari today announced the development of Godzilla®: Unleashed, the ultimate giant fighting monsters game. Godzilla: Unleashed will tear its way onto Wii™, Nintendo DS™ and PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system in autumn 2007.
Godzilla: Unleashed is a fighting game on a giant scale. The game stars the legendary Godzilla and a slew of the most renowned monsters of all-time. Gamers are challenged to ultimately save the planet from mayhem and destruction. Set in urban arenas, Godzilla: Unleashed’s interactive 3D cityscapes, big destructible buildings, soaring skyscrapers and towering alien formations provide the backdrop to epic worldwide destruction.
“The iconic Japanese giant goes from strength to strength, taking the franchise in new directions not least with the unprecedented dynamic control afforded by the unique Wii controller,” said Cyril Voiron, Marketing Director, Atari Europe. “With multiple story paths, players can choose exactly how they want to release the beast within and wreak their own brand of spectacular urban devastation.”
Players will claw, kick, stomp, throw and blast their way through the streets of major world cities in order to claim the ultimate, beastly title: King of the Monsters. In addition to a fully reinvented combat system, Godzilla: Unleashed will feature an innovative non-linear storyline which will allow players to influence how the story unfolds through their choices within battles.
GRAW 2 demo available on Xbox Live Marketplace
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Wednesday, January 31 2007 @ 11:35 CET]
While this isn't official YET, we are glad to inform you all that the "Ghost Recon: Advanced Warfighter 2" DEMO is NOW available on Xbox Live Marketplace !
We haven't received any press release yet from Ubisoft yet but as fast as we are, we just noticed the demo a few minuts ago.
Size of the demo weighs around 620 MB so download it now!
Remember where you read it first ... PLAYDEVIL !
Luxor 2 and 7 Wonders of the Ancient World coming for Vista
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MumboJumbo, a leading developer and publisher of premium casual games, today announced that "LUXOR 2" and "7 Wonders of the Ancient World" are both included in the selective line-up of only eight casual games to debut on Windows Vista at launch.
Chosen for their popularity and optimal use of the Windows Vista platform, "LUXOR 2" and "7 Wonders of the Ancient World" provide gamers with quality game content, advanced game mechanics and feature rich graphics that give casual gamers a fully immersive, high-end user experience. The full games will soon be available for purchase via MSN Games at games.msn.com/en/vistagames.
"LUXOR 2," the critically acclaimed sequel to the #1 casual game of 2005, has been nominated for “Best Casual Game of 2006” and “Best Puzzle Game of 2006” by the Casual Game Association, and with over 50 million downloads to date, "LUXOR" has undoubtedly grown into one of the most successful brands in casual game history. "7 Wonders of the Ancient World," the second MumboJumbo game to release on Windows Vista, is the smash-hit puzzler of 2006 that proves unparalleled gameplay and visual content are the key to being a leader in the match-three genre.
“Having two of MumboJumbo’s top-selling games available for the much-anticipated launch of Windows Vista is an amazing achievement for any game publisher,” said Paul Jensen, president of MumboJumbo. “With superior-quality graphics and smooth gameplay mechanics that take advantage of the new operating system, we feel that 'LUXOR 2' and '7 Wonders of the Ancient World' will deliver a sophisticated look and feel that takes premium casual games to an all-new level.”
In "LUXOR 2," players embark on a beautiful voyage through 88 stylishly detailed and explosive levels equipped with a mystical winged scarab to shoot and destroy the approaching magical balls before they reach the pyramids at the end of their path. Players can earn up to 15 exciting power-ups and play through four distinct levels of difficulty. And with 13 potential bonus rounds and the new 100-level player ranking system, the challenges in this beautifully illustrated Egyptian landscape are virtually endless.
"7 Wonders of the Ancient World" delivers the utmost addictive qualities of a classic match-three game. Players journey through ancient lands, matching three same-colored magical runes to supply their workers with the building stones needed to construct the ancient world’s 7 Wonders. Puzzle fans will be especially pleased with the special bonuses and power-ups, while enhanced graphics and audio deliver multi-sensory entertainment as players cleverly maneuver through the 147 total levels of this exciting match-three puzzler.
Ten New Titles Approach the Xbox Live Arcade Horizon
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Vampire hunters, artillery-toting worms, rambunctious aliens and trailblazing settlers are among the “likeable” characters that will soon make their debut in living rooms everywhere via Xbox Live® Arcade for Xbox 360™ as part of the award-winning service’s upcoming round of new game releases.
Starting with the first release in February, 10 highly anticipated titles will begin making their way to Xbox Live Arcade, including these (titles are not listed in chronological release order):
“3D Ultra Minigolf Adventures,” from developer Wanako Games and publisher Sierra Online, allows gamers to putt their way through 36 fun-filled holes of manic minigolf action on wild courses that range from the Old West to outer space and feature a bevy of crazy hazards and obstacles.
“Alien Hominid HD” from The Behemoth features side-scrolling, hysterical cartoon action with a quirky twist and exclusive Xbox Live Arcade features.
“Band of Bugs” from NinjaBee is a fast-paced tactical strategy game that offers gameplay deep enough to satisfy tactical genre fans and friendly enough to appeal to casual gamers. Creative gamers can even design their own levels with the built-in level editor, then play them solo or over Xbox Live with friends.
“Castlevania: Symphony of the Night” from Konami is a faithful version of this legendary classic updated for Xbox Live Arcade and featuring the game’s full soundtrack and memorable side-scrolling vampire-hunting action.
“Catan,” from developer Big Huge Games Inc. and publisher Microsoft® Game Studios, is a faithful remake of the immensely popular strategy board game.
“Eets: Chowdown” from Klei Entertainment Inc. is a completely revamped version of the popular PC title of the same name. It offers new items, 120 new levels and the exclusive debut of Marsho Madness, a high-adrenaline action game in which players must keep the impending evil marshmallows at bay.
“LUXOR 2,” from developer MumboJumbo LLC, sets a new standard for action puzzlers as players match and shoot their way through the land of ancient Egypt.
“Paperboy,” from developer Digital Eclipse and publisher Midway, is a classic coin-op hit, specially enhanced for Xbox Live Arcade.
“Root Beer Tapper,” also from developer Digital Eclipse and publisher Midway, features fast-paced reflex action as players scramble to keep thirsty patrons happy without dropping root beer mugs in the scramble to earn the biggest tips.
“Worms” from developer Team 17 Software Ltd. features armies of adorable weapon-toting worms locked in tactical combat.
New force feedback system to use in next-gen consoles ?
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SplitFish GameWare Inc., a leader in video game hardware innovation, today announced it has developed a new dynamic force feedback system for use with the Sony Playstation 3 and other next-generation video game systems. Basic PS2 and Xbox versions are being considered.
The new SplitFish dynamic force feedback system was designed to insure compliant operation with the new tilt, motion and directional sensor technologies currently found in the next generation game consoles. The potential interference on the Sony PS3 SIXAXIS Controller caused by rotating mass force feedback systems such as Immersion’s Rotating Mass Patent, required us to approach the solution from a completely new direction. While the SplitFish EdgeFX uses a mechanical feedback system, this new technology produces a whole new aspect of force and tactile feedback.
This low power consumption force feedback technology called “Sensor Effects - SensorFX” uses no moving parts to produce meaningful sensory feedback. A broad range of intensity and sensation compliment the ability to derive feedback sensations from isolated areas on the controller, to isolate one side or the other, movement from front to back or all areas at the same time. As an example, a gamer playing a race game can feel variations in pulse, strength and collision location and to feel intensity differences between a smooth guardrail swipe and a full frontal slam into a wall.
The SensorFX feedback system can be sold as an add-on to existing controllers or as an imbedded feature that is part of a standard controller. The SensorFX PS3 add-on version is simply connected to the USB plug on the PS3 controller, similar to SplitFish’s MotionFX.
The patent pending SensorFX has two modes, one for games that have force feedback support already built in and the other mode that relies on motion tilt sensing and button use and other actions to trigger the SensorFX tactile feedback. SplitFish will work with video game publishers and next-generation hardware manufacturers in an effort to establish standards for this directional force feedback technology.
Frontline: Fields of Thunder gets release date
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Paradox Interactive announced today that "Frontline – Fields of Thunder" will be shipping to stores on March 16, 2007 in Europe and March 23, 2007 in North America.
"Frontline: Fields of Thunder" depicts the largest tank battle in history in what is commonly referred to as the Clash of the Titans. Players will be able to immerse themselves into detailed gameplay on a sizeable battle map, with historically accurate environments encompassing exciting missions and challenges.
Brought to gamers by the creators of Heroes of Might & Magic V, Paradox Interactive plans to publish the game worldwide.
"'Frontline: Fields of Thunder' brings back much of what made the original Blitzkrieg such an appreciated entry for the strategy gaming community", said Fredrik Wester, Director of Sales & Marketing. "We are thrilled to be bringing what could be the start of an entire series, to a worldwide audience".
"Frontline: Fields of Thunder" has a SRP of $29.99/€29.99 and has been rated Teen by ESRB and 12+ by PEGI.
StateShift coming to Europe PSP
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Tuesday, January 30 2007 @ 16:17 CET]
Engine Software, developer based in the Netherlands, today announces that it has signed a publishing deal with British publisher Midas Interactive Ltd. regarding the release of its PSP title “StateShift” in European territories.
StateShift – an original sci-fi racing title for PSP – has been in development at Engine Software, and is in the final stages of production as we speak. The game, set in a not too distant future, focusses on illegal racing competitions around the future Earth where economical instability, and depletion of resources has led to a series of bloody conflicts.
StateShift boasts various single player modes including an expansive Career Mode, and adrenalin pumping ad-Hoc multiplayer mode.
Ivo Wubbels, CEO at Engine Software said: “The development of StateShift has been highly productive and a great experience for the team and myself here at Engine Software. Now we are close to completion, I am personally very happy to announce the partnership with Midas Interactive Ltd and anticipate a hugely successful release of StateShift into the European market.“
Engine Software and Midas Interactive will will be releasing further information, including news and media, in the next few weeks. A release date and price point have not yet been confirmed, but the game is in it’s final stages, so watch this space! Engine Software will also be looking to establish further partnerships in the North American and Asian markets over the coming months.
Oxygen announces Hard Rock Casino for PSP
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Oxygen Games and Hard Rock International are pleased to announce the launch of Hard Rock Casino for PSP System. The authentic and aspirational casino title is set for release on the 20th April 2007.
Oxygen CEO Jim Scott says:
“Hard Rock is one of the most globally recognized brands, delivering top-quality entertainment with rock ‘n’ roll flair, and we feel Hard Rock is a perfect fit for our lifestyle-led consumers. Hard Rock Casino is not only a gambling game, but is championed by the world’s most illustrious casino and is a brand which appeals to the thousands of loyal fans throughout Europe.”
Hard Rock Casino captures the exhilaration and kudos of becoming a rockin’ “High Roller” in the world’s most illustrious casino. Players are challenged to try their luck at more than 20 different casino games, experience high-stakes arenas and invitation-only tournaments and win un-lockable upgrades to their fully customizable alter egos. Spanning across multiple casino environments, players are dared to live out their dreams, build their winnings and reputations and become Hard Rock’s greatest “High Roller.”
Hard Rock Casino is scheduled for release on 20th April 2007 for the PSP System.
New Classic DS and PSP titles from Midway
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Midway Games, a leading interactive entertainment industry publisher and developer, today announced the development of two titles for handheld video game systems designed with the casual gamer in mind. Touchmaster™ for Nintendo DS™, featuring a wide variety of mini-games popularized in Midway’s Touchmaster counter-top touch-screen arcade game systems, is scheduled to be released in June. Later this summer, Midway expects to release Hot Brain™, a compilation of brain-teasers, puzzles and challenges, exclusively for the PSP® (PlayStation® Portable) system.
“With both Touchmaster DS for Nintendo DS and Hot Brain for PSP, we’re able to tap into our experience with the casual market to create games that work perfectly with the unique controls and features of each portable system,” said Steve Allison, chief marketing officer, Midway. “Both titles will be able to provide quick three-minute gameplay experiences or extended play-session with puzzles, card games, brain teasers, trivia and more.”
Touchmaster DS will feature 23 of Midway’s classic Touchmaster games, popularized in bars and arcades across the country. A wide variety of card games, puzzles and skill-based challenges, such as Solitaire, Mah Jongg, Hot Hoops™ and Trivia, are translated perfectly to make use of the touchscreen and stylus controls of the Nintendo DS.
Hot Brain will feature the voice of Fred Willard (Best in Show, Anchorman), and brings brain-training challenges to the PSP. Players will try and achieve red-hot status with hundreds of timed challenges in five challenging categories, including logic, memory, math, language and concentration.
About Touchmaster DS
The wide variety of highly interactive mini-games made Midway’s Touchmaster™ a favorite in bars and arcades across the country are will now be available whenever, wherever with Touchmaster DS, exclusively for Nintendo DS™. Touchmaster DS is a natural fit for the touchscreen and stylus of Nintendo DS, and is perfect for a quick gameplay session. There’s something for everyone to choose from, with a wide variety of 23 Midway’s classic Touchmaster games, including Trivia, Solitaire, Gem Slide™ and Mah Jongg. With the Nintendo DS Wi-Fi connection, players can connect to the Midway Tournament Network for high scores, tournaments and daily rankings.
About Hot Brain
Fire up your mind with Hot Brain™, a game that engages the mind through a series of puzzles and challenges designed to raise the activity and temperature of your brain. Hot Brain presents challenging and fun mental activities that help ignite your mind in areas like logic, memory, math, language and concentration. Exclusive to the PSP® (PlayStation® Portable) system, the game allows you to test your skills in several single player modes or you can play with up to three people via ad-hoc connection. Whether you’re an expert or a beginner, a robust tutorial mode makes the game accessible and enjoyable to people of all ages.
BlackSite: Area 51 Is Coming Summer 2007
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Midway Games , a leading interactive entertainment industry publisher and developer, today announced BlackSite: Area 51, an action packed, first person shooter experience which pits gamers against alien enemy forces using the infamous U.S. government landmark, Area 51, and the surrounding areas as the battlefield backdrop.
BlackSite: Area 51 is currently in development for the PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system, the Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and for the PC.
Developed by Midway Studios - Austin, BlackSite: Area 51 is a next-generation game that will redefine the first person shooter (FPS) genre. While other FPS titles claim to feature
“action-packed, highly realistic gameplay,” BlackSite: Area 51 takes next-gen gaming to an all-new level integrating cutting edge technology, game design and story writing to create the ultimate entertainment experience. The player’s modern-day emotions and fears are driven into a world charged with grave responsibility affecting lives hanging in the balance and eventually finding himself torn between his professional orders and his own ethical standards. In the end, only the actions of the player and his squad can shape the outcome of BlackSite: Area 51 during this potentially pivotal moment in history.
“BlackSite: Area 51 gives players the opportunity to experience next-generation, first person shooter action in one of the world’s most intriguing and mysterious environments,” said Denise Fulton, studio head, Midway Studios - Austin. “Gamers will be instantly immersed in the game’s seamless storyline, set in the desert and small towns surrounding Area 51 that feature highly detailed environments that transform themselves into awesome battlefields. Without question, BlackSite: Area 51 will raise the bar in the next generation FPS genre with its stunning visuals, life-like squad interactions and its multitude of online multiplayer modes.”
New World-War II experience for Xbox 360 by Midway
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Midway Games, a leading interactive entertainment industry publisher and developer, today announced that Hour of Victory, a new cinematic, first person shooter experience set in World War II, is currently in development exclusively for the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and is expected to be available this summer.
Built using the powerful Unreal® Engine 3.0, Hour of Victory combines authentic details from historic World War II battles and adds in frenetic and cinematic gameplay. Gamers are able to play each level in the style they choose, whether as a covert operative, specializing in stealth and sabotage; a British commando proficient in the guns-blazing frontal assault; or an Army ranger who excels in sniping and demolitions. Players will also be able to take control of any vehicle on the battlefield as they sharpen their skills to impact the key battles from the European and North African Theaters.
“Hour of Victory is an entirely new World War II experience designed exclusively for the Xbox 360 that will place players in a pivotal role during key battles using the gameplay style they choose,” said Matt Booty, senior vice president, worldwide studios, Midway. “Using the powerful Unreal Engine 3.0 we’re able to create exciting, cinematic moments that allow players to feel like a hero, not just another cog in the war machine.”
Nintendo Launch Wii News Channel Across America
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Friday, January 26 2007 @ 16:28 CET]
As the options for news multiply, Nintendo is putting a simple solution for straight news right in the palm of your hand-in the form of the Wii Remote™.
The News Channel, free to Wii™ owners, will debut on the console's Wii Menu beginning tomorrow, Saturday, Jan. 27. Using the international resources of the Associated Press, the News Channel gives you key stories in multiple categories from across the country and around the world.
"What Wii has done for video gaming, we hope it will also accomplish for news," says Nintendo of America President Reggie Fils-Aime. "Just by pointing at your TV screen, you become your own interactive editor, instantly accessing the latest headline stories, whether they originate in Kansas City or Kyoto."
"The Associated Press is always looking for innovative ways to expand its audience for news and information," said Jane Seagrave, vice president and director of AP's digital division. "The Wii News Channel extends our global reach even further, on yet another platform, offering our news to people who otherwise might not see it."
The simple user interface allows Wii owners to spin a virtual globe and point to the location of a news event using the Wii Remote. Stories will be listed under headings including Business, Sports, Arts/Entertainment, Technology and Science/Health to allow users to quickly access information in the order they want. At any given time, dozens of stories might be available for each category. In the global view, stories can be grouped by region instead of category. Icons show which stories have been read, which stories are text-only and which ones come with news photos. Because Wii caters to all different ages, the interface allows users to change the size of the text. By using the "always-on" system functionality of WiiConnect24™, stories will be updated frequently, even while owners are sleeping.
New SHOT OF THE WEEK
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Friday, January 26 2007 @ 16:16 CET]
Today, we give you a new SHOT OF THE WEEK (SOTW) and it's coming from a new PlayStation 3 game, developed by "Koei" called "Bladestorm: The Hundred Years War".
The game is delayed and should come out this summer, only on PS3.
Enjoy.
You can find the SOTW on every page, right side just under "Latest Demos".
Virtua Fighter 5 Official Site Launch
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SEGA Europe Ltd. are pleased to announce the launch of the official website for Virtua Fighter 5, the hotly anticipated fighting game for the PlayStation3 computer entertainment system. Http://www.sega-europe.com/virtuafighter5 offers a range of content for both fans of the highly acclaimed series and gamers new to Virtua Fighter.
www.sega-europe.com/virtuafighter5 includes a range of material covering everything from a game information section describing all the aspects of Virtua Fighter 5 to a detailed character section explaining everything there is to know about fighters old and new. An extensive media section allows visitors to view a selection of movies and screenshots, going great lengths to prove the undeniable beauty of Virtua Fighter 5 and also includes a variety of wallpapers and icons for fans to download.
Visitors wanting to brush up on their Virtua Fighter knowledge can browse through the history section of the site to get the inside information on the critically acclaimed and much loved game, helping to make www.sega-europe.com/virtuafighter5 the perfect site for fans of what is hotly tipped to be the world’s greatest fighting game.
New Release Date for Two Worlds in Europe
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"Two Worlds" fans in Europe must be patient for a few weeks longer than originally planned before starting to explore the enormous world of Antaloor. The release date has been put back to May the 9th 2007.
CEO Alexandra Constandache: "It's the atmosphere of a game that really suffers if the balancing isn't quite perfect or if annoying bugs make life difficult - especially in the RPG sector.
We're fortunate enough to be in a position where we ourselves can determine when our game will be marketed - and we have taken the decision to postpone its release for a short time. The time gained will be used to further perfect the multiplayer aspect. We'll be publishing more info next week about this feature."
"Two Worlds" will be released at the beginning of May for PC and Xbox 360 in English, French and German localisation.
Mario Kart 64 available on Virtual Console for Wii !
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Racing fans are in for an extra special treat today as Mario Kart 64, one of the greatest games in the hugely popular Mario Kart series, is available to download to Wii’s Virtual Console *. Featuring tense racing action for up to four players, Mario Kart 64 is the ultimate trip down nostalgia lane for you and your friends for the small sum of 1000 Wii Points.
As if this great game wasn’t reason enough to join the 1.4 million Wii users connected to the internet around the globe, Friday will see the launch of the first version** of the News Channel, for free, across Europe. Once downloaded the News Channel provides instant on demand news from around the world at the press of a button.
This Friday will also see the release of Soldier Blade from Turbografx (PC Engine), which will join over 40 classic titles already available for the Virtual Console. Since launch a staggering 1.5 million games have been downloaded worldwide from the service.
Release date set for LOTR Online: Shadows of Angmar
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Codemasters Online Gaming and Turbine, Inc. today announced that The Lord of the Rings Online™: Shadows of Angmar™, the highly anticipated massively multiplayer online game, is currently scheduled to launch on April 24, 2007 across Europe.
The Lord of the Rings Online lets players experience the greatest epic fantasy adventure of all time and join with millions of fans from around the globe in the vast world of Middle-earth.
Codemasters Online Gaming has also announced the details of their revolutionary pre-order Founder’s Program for The Lord of the Rings Online™ in Europe. This exciting Founder’s Program rewards all players who pre-order The Lord of the Rings Online with a special £99.99 (€149.99) Lifetime Membership offer, early access to the game, character roll-over and a unique in-game bonus item. Players can become a Founder by pre-ordering the title at www.lotro-europe.com/preorder or at retail stores throughout Europe beginning in late March 2007. This limited time offer is exclusively available to pre-order customers in Europe.*
“It’s exciting to announce the release date for what is going to be one of the top PC releases of the year,” said David Solari, Vice President and General Manager of Codemasters Online Gaming “The Founder’s Program offers gamers some amazing benefits when choosing how to start their adventure in this landmark title. April is going to be the month when everyone moves to Middle-earth!”
The Lord of the Rings Online Founder’s Program* offers players two different membership options:
• Just £99.99 (€149.99) for a Lifetime Membership
OR
• Only £5.99 (€8.99) per month subscription price when purchased as part of a 6-month package.
Wing Island launches across Europe on Wii
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Wing Island soars across Europe on Wii on 23rd March 2007. Wing Island is published by Hudson and distributed by Nintendo.
As the first flying game for the dynamic Wii Console, Wing Island is like no other flying game out there. Using the Wii’s ground-breaking motion sensitive controls, players can feel as if they really are flying their plane. The use of the Wii Remote allows players to achieve maximum precision whilst flying, combined with a more realistic feel. By simply tilting the controller left or right, you can turn the plane in the desired direction by angling the remote up or down gamers can easily change height. Quick turns can be easily achieved by waving the remote’s tip to the left or the right. Acceleration and breaking is equally simple to control with quick bursts of speed controlled by quickly thrusting the remote forward or backward, whilst more steady speed is achieved by pressing up or down on the D-pad. Not only is this a simple and intuitive way to control the game but it also brings an all-new level of fun and excitement to the game, regardless of your previous gaming experience, as your movements control the plane.
In the main Story mode, gamers progress by completing each mission and unlocking new locations. The game’s single player missions set the player a number of fun tasks to test their flying skills ranging from food drops to extinguishing forest fires and taking photos of assigned objects. Players earn different ratings for each mission based on time, accuracy and damage to the planes. This in turn influences points, bonus points, and money awarded for each of the 27 missions. Earning money in turn allows players the opportunity to tune and repair their plane and even buy one of seven completely new planes. During each mission the player has the opportunity to fly solo or in a formation of five dependent upon which mission they are involved in, therefore enabling the player to experience the best of both flight methods.
‘Wing Island’ is centred around three different, exotic cartoon islands inhabited by wacky cartoon animals who will help players complete the tasks they are set. The first island is the smallest and houses ‘Wing Inc’, where the first few missions take place. The second location becomes available after completion of the initial missions and presents more challenging terrain across which to navigate. The third and final island has a large city built on it and is by far the most challenging to navigate across.
If the idea of completing missions doesn’t appeal to you then select Free Mode where you can fly freely around the islands in the game without constraints of time. At any point in the mission players can also try and break their own records to show off to their friends in the Single Player Competitive Mode. There are three options in this mode: score attack, where players must pop balloons by ramming them with a spike on the plane, time attack where they must race through numbered gates and also Plane Tail which allows you to pop balloons tied to your opponent,
If a bit of extra competition is what you’re looking for why not go head to head against a friend to prove yourself a flying ace, or perfect your skills by taking on Wii in Two Player Mode. As in Single Player Competitive Mode, this mode also contains score attack and time, as well as Plane Tail.
The super-exciting ‘Wing Island’ flies into stores across Europe on Wii on the 23rd March 2007 at an estimated retail price of around 49 Euros (approximately £34 in the UK). The Wii console is available across Europe priced at 249 Euros (approximately £179).
Xing Interactive announces Dragon-X - Gold Quest for PC
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Dutch publishers Xing Interactive are pleased to announce a new PC game called "Dragon-X: Gold Quest".
This is a frantic platform game featuring a little Dragon who is out to gather as much gold as possible. Why? Well that's what Dragons do... They gather gold and guard it against greedy knights in shining armour.
7 different worlds and many bonus levels will make this game a great family friendly challenge for all ages. Initially the game is available in Dutch and English languages but it is designed for easy localisation.
Sam & Max Episode 3 Launches today!
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Today GameTap launches “The Mole, The Mob, and the Meatball,” the third episode in “Sam & Max: Season 1,” the critically-acclaimed GameTap Original series.
This new episode comes right on the heels of the first two, illustrating a rapid pace distribution schedule that has GameTap and Telltale redefining the episodic games genre for the industry. As of today, subscribers can play all three episodes of Sam & Max on GameTap; what’s more, they can tune in to GameTap TV for a slew of on-demand extras, including the 1997 Sam & Max hit cartoon series and all-new Sam & Max machinima shorts. New shorts and cartoons are added to the line-up every week.
In “The Mole, The Mob, and the Meatball,” the hilarious pair go undercover Mafia-style to help the commissioner, who is looking into an underground operation at the Ted E. Bear Mafia-Free Playland and Casino. The commissioner’s mole has suddenly gone quiet, and to find this missing informant, Sam & Max must infiltrate the operation and become members of the Toy Mafia themselves.
GameTap is currently offering a fantastic promotion: sign up today and get the first month of service for just 99 cents. This flat rate means 24-7 access to all that GameTap offers, including GameTap Originals “Sam & Max: Season 1” and “Myst Online: Uru Live,” along with more than 800 of the greatest games on-demand and 600 original shows on GameTap TV.
Square Enix Licenses Epic Games' Unreal Engine 3
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Square Enix Co., Ltd. today announced a licensing agreement with Epic Games that enables Square Enix to introduce Epic’s Unreal® Engine 3 middleware into its next-generation game development process.
Square Enix has built its highly successful franchises such as FINAL FANTASY®, DRAGON QUEST® and KINGDOM HEARTS by pushing game consoles to their limits and providing unparalleled user experiences for more than 20 years. This was achieved through the company’s proprietary technologies, which were mostly optimized for each game given the limited resources of game consoles. However, in order to ensure both game quality and development efficiency for next-generation game systems including consoles, PCs and network titles, Square Enix is now building a technology platform to be used throughout the company utilizing proprietary technologies as well as introducing third-party solutions such as Unreal Engine 3.
“The complexity of next-generation game systems featuring HD graphics and multi-core parallel processing poses a number of technological challenges to our game development. However, we can expedite our game development process significantly while allowing extra time and resources to be spent on game design and mechanics by establishing an effective technology platform,” said Taku Murata, General Manager, Research and Development Division, Square Enix, Co., Ltd. “The technology platform for game development is becoming more important than ever. I'm excited to be partnering with Epic Games in such an important area.”
“We’re extremely excited to be working with Square Enix,” said Jay Wilbur, Vice President, Epic Games, Inc. “Square Enix is one of the biggest and most influential companies in the world-wide game business, and having them work with Unreal Engine 3 is a major honor for us and something we’re very proud to be announcing.”
dtp confirms development of Black Mirror 2
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Adventure gamers can look forward to a sequel to one of the most successful games in the genre: German publisher dtp entertainment AG has confirmed that Black Mirror 2, the follow-up to one of 2004’s top-selling adventure games, is now in development.
The game is in the works at Czech studio Future Games, who were responsible for the first game as well. Black Mirror 2 is currently in early concept stages.
“We received tons of mail from adventure gaming fans who clamoured for a new entry in the ‘Black Mirror’ story. ‘Black Mirror 2’ is our answer to these calls and we have assembled a team of experienced writers and designers to ensure that the sequel will meet the high expectations,” said Achim Heidelauf, Senior Producer at dtp entertainment.
dtp will publish Black Mirror 2 worldwide under its ANACONDA brand.
Phoenix Wright Ace Attorney: Justice in March for DS
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Thursday, January 25 2007 @ 12:55 CET]
Following on from the critically acclaimed Phoenix Wright ™ Ace Attorney ™, the courtroom is in session once more across Europe on 16th March 2007 when Phoenix Wright: ™ Ace Attorney ™ Justice for All launches exclusively on the Nintendo DS.
Phoenix Wright: ™ Ace Attorney ™ Justice for All is developed and published by Capcom and distributed by Nintendo.
Set six months after the events portrayed in the original Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney, this game once again follows the exploits of the young lawyer as he battles a brand new District Attorney and exercises his legal prowess to collect evidence, examine witnesses and argue the case for his clients. With four all new cases to, Phoenix is this time up against an even tougher opposition when he finds out that the District Attorney is none other than the daughter of his old adversary Manfred von Karma and she is obsessed with taking him down.
As in the previous Phoenix Wright title the action is split into two distinct sections. The first is where players must investigate crime scenes and interrogate witnesses for clues, using the touch-screen to collect evidence and inspect items of interest. The second part of the game is based in the court-room where players use their skill to argue the case as well as interjecting at key moments via the Nintendo DS microphone with cries of ‘Objection’, ‘Take that’ and more.
Phoenix Wright ™: Ace Attorney ™ Justice for All features an all new ‘Psyche-Lock’ feature when Phoenix is dealing with a hostile witness who does not want to reveal the truth. The only way to get the necessary information out of the witness is for the player to open up the Psyche-Lock with a series of correct questions or by catching the witness out on inconsistent statements. Being able to effectively deal with these witnesses will become an essential part of winning the case in this game.
Another new addition to this game is a life bar, which represents Phoenix’s status in court. Presenting dubious evidence and failing to break Psyche-Locks will reduce the player’s credibility and cause this life bar to go down. When it gets too low Phoenix will lose the case and find himself in hot water with the judge. Players can replenish a life bar during the trial by successfully breaking witness Psyche-Locks.
Phoenix Wright ™ Ace Attorney ™ Justice for All takes to the stand across Europe on the Nintendo DS on 16th March 2006 for around €40 (£30 in the UK).
PlayStation 3 EURO Launch Games and Peripherals
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We also managed to get the FULL PS3 European Launch Game List with of course new peripherals.
PLAYSTATION 3 LAUNCH TITLE LINE-UP
PS3 Launch Title - Publisher - Network or Disc based
Resistance: Fall of Man™ - SCEE - Disc
MotorStorm™ - SCEE - Disc
Genji™: Days of the Blade - SCEE - Disc
FORMULA ONE™ CHAMPIONSHIP EDITION - SCEE - Disc
Ridge Racer™ 7 - SCEE - Disc
Tekken®: Dark Resurrection - SCEE - Network
Lemmings™ - SCEE - Network
Go! Sudoku - SCEE - Network
Go! Puzzle - SCEE - Network
Blast Factor™ - SCEE - Network
flOw™ - SCEE - Network
Super Rub'a'Dub - SCEE - Network
Call of Duty 3 - Activision UK Ltd - Disc
Marvel: Ultimate Alliance - Activision UK Ltd - Disc
Tony Hawks Project 8 - Activision UK Ltd - Disc
Gundam - Target in Sight - Namco Bandai Games - Disc
Full Auto™ 2: Battle Lines - Sega®Europe Ltd - Disc
Sonic the Hedgehog™ - Sega®Europe Ltd - Disc
Virtua Fighter™ 5 - Sega®Europe Ltd - Disc
Virtua Tennis™ 3 - Sega®Europe Ltd - Disc
World Snooker Championship 2007 - Sega®Europe Ltd - Disc
NBA 2K7 - Take 2 International SA - Disc
NHL 2K7 - Take 2 International SA - Disc
Blazing Angels Squadrons of WWll - Ubisoft Entertainment SA - Disc
Enchanted Arms - Ubisoft Entertainment SA - Disc
Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell: Double Agent - Ubisoft Entertainment SA - Disc
The Elder Scrolls lV: Oblivion - Ubisoft Entertainment SA - Disc
Def Jam: Icon - Electronic Arts Ltd - Disc
Fight Night Round 3 - Electronic Arts Ltd - Disc
NBA Street 4 Homecourt 2007 - Electronic Arts Ltd - Disc
Need for Speed Carbon - Electronic Arts Ltd - Disc
The Godfather: The Don's Edition - Electronic Arts Ltd - Disc
Tiger Woods PGA Tour 2007 - Electronic Arts Ltd - Disc
Untold Legends: Dark Kingdom - Electronic Arts Ltd - Disc
F.E.A.R. - Vivendi Universal Games Intl SA - Disc
Gripshift - Sony Online Entertainment - Network
SIXAXIS™ Wireless Controller - EURO 49.99
Blu-ray Disc Remote Control - EURO 24.99
HDMI Cable - EURO 24.99
AV cable - EURO 16.99
Component AV cable - EURO 24.99
S Video cable - EURO 16.99
PS3 60GB Model to Launch in Europe and Australasia on 23rd March
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Sony Computer Entertainment Europe today announced that PLAYSTATION®3 will be launched in the PAL territories of Europe, Africa, the Middle East and Australasia on 23rd March 2007 at a price of EURO 599 (GBP 425, AUD 999.95, NZ 1199.95).
Responding to retail and consumer demand, SCEE confirmed that initially only the 60GB model would be available, with the 20GB model to follow later in the year dependent on demand.
An expected one million PS3 units will be made available during the initial launch period.
SCEE also announced a stellar launch line-up of over 30 game titles for PS3, including eagerly awaited titles published by SCEE such as Resistance: Fall of Man™, MotorStorm™, Genji™: Days of the Blade, FORMULA ONE ™ CHAMPIONSHIP EDITION and Ridge Racer™ 7. An exceptional range of titles in every genre will also be available at launch from the world's leading third party publishers, including Electronic Arts, Activision, Namco Bandai, Sega, Take 2, Ubisoft, Vivendi Universal, and Sony Online Entertainment.
In addition to games on disc, an exciting range of fully-featured downloadable games will debut on the PLAYSTATION®Network. These will include gaming icons such as Tekken®: Dark Resurrection and Gran Turismo® HD Concept; the fully-featured PS3 debut of the best-selling franchise Gran Turismo, realised with full HD (1080p) visual quality. Created by Polyphony Digital Inc and published by Sony Computer Entertainment, Gran Turismo® HD Concept has been downloaded by more than 350,000 users since it was released in December 2006 in North America and Japan.
Also available on the PLAYSTATION®Network will be brainteasers such as Go! Sudoku and Go! Puzzle, and innovative games such as Blast Factor™ and flOw™, designed exclusively for PLAYSTATION 3 and delivering on the promise to provide original content created by non-traditional developers and publishers.
Concurrent with the European launch, a new System Update to further enhance the entertainment potential of PS3 will be issued.
Announcing the launch details, David Reeves, President of SCEE said, "Following the hugely successful launches of PS3 in Japan and North America, we are absolutely delighted to be able to bring significant numbers of PS3 to the SCEE territories. To be able to launch with over 30 titles across every genre shows that this is our strongest launch line-up in the history of PlayStation, and is what PlayStation fans in Europe have been crying out for."
Majesco Announces Toon-Doku For Nintendo DS
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Majesco Entertainment Company today announced Toon-Doku for the Nintendo DS.
Developed by Dragon’s Den Unlimited, Toon-Doku will offer fun, cartoon picture-based puzzles in addition to traditional number-based Sudoku puzzles when it ships this April.
“Toon-Doku is the answer for Sudoku fans looking for something different and younger players looking for a less intimidating puzzler,” said Ken Gold, vice president of Marketing, Majesco Entertainment. “The combination of pictures and unique multi-player features adds several new dimensions to one of today’s most popular brain games. Of course, Toon-Doku also includes number-based play, so fans can enjoy ‘Doku’ the traditional way as well.”
Toon-Doku features 250 different images gamers can place on the board to complete each puzzle. A deep Edit Mode lets budding artists create their own customized pieces for play or trade with friends. In addition to three multiplayer modes, Toon-Doku includes a unique Distraction System that lets players block portions of their opponent’s board to thwart their progress in competitive matches.
Wild Hare Entertainment Signs Air Battles: Sky Defender
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Wild Hare Entertainment has announced plans to release “Air Battles: Sky Defender” in February 2007 for the PC. Developed by Pilot Entertainment, a strategic partner of Shockwave Productions, the creators of the critically acclaimed, “Wings of Power: Heavy Bombers and Jets” and “World War II fighters.” “Air Battles” brings the frantic, high-speed action of an arcade-style shooter to history's ultimate aerial killing ground, World War II.
“Air Battles: Sky Defender” allows players to experience realistic WW II aerial combat with top notch graphics and historically accurate aircraft. “Air Battles” was specifically designed for gamers that can’t get enough of First Person Shooter (FPS) action.
“Flight simulators (sims) and FPS titles at their core are very similar in concept and game play mechanics. Unfortunately, the majority of gamers are intimidated by the realistic nature of most of the current combat flight sims,” said Shawn Russ, Executive Producer for Wild Hare Entertainment. “Air Battles” is more of a cross between an action title and a realistic sim. The default settings are set for gamers who like to jump into a game and start laying waste to everything they come across. On the other hand, if players are looking for more of a challenge they can raise the difficulty level and test their skills against enemy A.I. which is modeled on real world tactics.
Designed with the novice in mind, “Air Battles” allows combat flight sim and fps enthusiasts to jump right into the action as a pilot for either the Axis or Allied forces and experience exciting, historically-themed, scripted missions. Using classic World War II planes, players can take part in massive air battles where over 400 planes are used to recreate the violent aerial combat that took place in the skies above Europe during WW II. “Air Battles: Sky Defender,” uses enhanced particle and weapon effects – explosions, tracer rounds, and trailing smoke and fire, as well as detailed plane models, environments, weather effects and volumetric clouds enabling flight sim novices the same amazing experience they get from first-person shooters.
“Air Battles: Sky Defender” will be available at retailers across North America in February.
In-depth review of Gears of War ONLINE with MP Maps!
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GOW. Gears of War.
Probably the BEST third-person-shooter game for your Xbox 360.
Hyped by everybody, loved by everybody and created by Epic Games, the developer of Unreal Tournament and many others.
Is this game one to show off to your friends and every Wii/PS3 lover? Will it use ALL the power of your Xbox 360 ?
Well, our reviewer Nate made a VERY IN-DEPTH review of "Gears of War" WITH comments on the TWO, recent released NEW MultiPlayer MAPS for the game.
Read the full review of "Gears of War" right here because "Emergency Day" is HERE!
WOW: The Burning Crusade Shatters Day-1 Sales Record
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Blizzard Entertainment® today announced that World of Warcraft®: The Burning Crusade™ has broken the day-one sales record to become the fastest-selling PC game ever in North America and Europe, with a worldwide total of nearly 2.4 million copies sold in the first 24 hours of availability.
The Burning Crusade, the first expansion set for World of Warcraft, was simultaneously released in North America, Europe, Singapore, Thailand, and Malaysia on 16 January, and on 17 January in Australia and New Zealand.
Blizzard had supplied more than 4 million game boxes to retailers worldwide, and more than 5,000 stores throughout the world had their doors open at midnight to welcome thousands of expectant players.
Day-one sales totals on both continents were similar, with an estimated total of nearly 1.2 million copies sold on the first day in North America and an estimated total of more than 1.1 million copies sold in Europe within the first 24 hours of launch.* By the end of the first day of availability on both continents, a total of more than 1.7 million players had already logged in and upgraded World of Warcraft to play The Burning Crusade.
“The Burning Crusade has already exceeded even our most ambitious expectations,” said Mike Morhaime, president and cofounder of Blizzard Entertainment. “We’re pleased that so many players are eager to see all of the new content that the expansion has to offer, and we look forward to seeing everyone online as additional players continue to upgrade in the days ahead.”
Retailers are continuing to report sustained demand, so if players have not yet purchased their copy of The Burning Crusade, they are advised to call ahead to make sure their store has copies on hand. Additional shipments of the expansion have been routed to retailers to help maintain stock levels.
“The excitement and sense of anticipation generated by the huge crowd at The Burning Crusade launch event far exceeded our expectations,” said Tim Ellis, Head of Games for HMV, UK. “And in terms of units shifted, this was HMV’s biggest launch event ever, and that includes Audio and DVD events.”
Prior to the launch of The Burning Crusade, World of Warcraft was played by more than 8 million players around the world -- with more than 2 million on North American realms and more than 1.5 million on European realms -- making it the most successful subscription-based massively multiplayer online role-playing game in PC-gaming history.
Wii Lineup For First Quarter 2007
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Nintendo's first-quarter lineup is filled with new games that expand the breadth and depth of the Wii library and build on the kind of fun that has made Wii such a smash hit.
The first three months of the year are filled with games for everyone, from sure-fire favorites like Wii Play™ to SSX ™Blur and The Godfather® Blackhand Edition from EA and a new Prince of Persia® Rival Swords game from Ubisoft. Fans can enjoy the classic Nintendo franchises such as The Legend of Zelda®: A Link to the Past® and the upcoming Mario Kart 64™ for the Wii Shop Channel. And on Jan. 27, the News Channel goes live with global coverage provided by the Associated Press.
Veteran gamers who spent countless hours playing through The Legend of Zelda®: Twilight Princess will find new challenges by entering worlds populated by everyone from Tiger Woods to Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, thanks to a deep list of new offerings from third-party publishers.
Beyond the current library of 34 new Wii titles, the schedule for upcoming Wii releases includes:
Feb. 14 Wii Play with Wii Remote Nintendo
March 27 Disney's Meet the Robinsons Buena Vista
March Bust-A-Move Bash Majesco
March Prince of Persia Rival Swords Ubisoft
March TMNT (Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles) Ubisoft
March Bionicle Heroes Eidos
March Blazing Angels Squadrons of WWII Ubisoft
Q1 Tiger Woods PGA Tour 07 EA
Q1 SSX Blur EA
Q1 The Godfather Blackhand Edition EA
Q1 Medal of Honor Vanguard EA
Q1 Sonic and the Secret Rings Sega
SEGA Announces Crush for PSP
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SEGA® of America, Inc. and SEGA® Europe, Ltd. today announced that Crush™, an inventive new puzzle game for the PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system, is currently in development and scheduled for release in Summer 2007.
Developed by U.K. based Kuju Brighton, Crush is an exciting new concept which challenges how players traditionally approach games with its intriguing new style of thought-provoking gameplay.
Unique to its genre, Crush introduces a valuable new gaming experience that is wholly suited to the PSP system. Set within a complex, hypnotic 3D world, players will use the game's unique crush mechanic to "crush" the environment and transform it into a more simplified 2D platformer. Once flattened, players will utilize the 2D space to move to new areas to solve otherwise impossible challenges, and unlock secret items that were previously unobtainable in the 3D environment. Players will then "uncrush" the 2D environment and return to the 3D world.
"Crush introduces a fascinating new gameplay perspective on the PSP that encourages players to stretch their imagination in a whole new way," said Scott A. Steinberg, Vice President of Marketing, SEGA® of America, Inc. "The spatial concept of the crushing mechanic is something truly unique that encourages users to think back and forth between 3D and 2D objects and environments to engage different parts of their brain, and see beyond what is literally in front them."
Designed for a wide and varied audience, Crush tells the story of Dan, a man with a lifetime of unresolved issues and bottled up emotions that has turned him into a nervous insomniac who is too tired to turn his life around. Desperate for a cure, he turns to hypnosis. It is during this state that he is given one last chance to sort through the wreckage of his past, before he loses the last thing he has – his sanity.
Crush is scheduled for release in Summer 2007.
Samurai Warriors 2 Empires coming this March
[Category :
KOEI, recognized worldwide as the premier brand of strategy and action games, today announced a European release date of March 16, 2007 for SAMURAI WARRIORS®2 EMPIRES. The Tactical Action game set in Feudal Japan will be available for both the Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system.
About Samurai Warriors 2 Empires
The Empires games have long been regarded as the deepest most tactical installment in the Warriors’ series. Samurai Warriors 2 Empires takes these strategic foundations even further with more choices and opportunities for the player to shape policies and build an army capable of uniting all of the warring states within Japan under one ruler. This game balances the political and tactical machinations of preparing an army for battle with the spectacular battlefield action that the Warriors games are renowned for to provide an incredibly involving tactical action experience.
Samurai Warriors 2 Empires combines the most exciting aspects of Action, Fighting and Strategy games. Japan is divided into 25 warring states and it is up to you to resurrect a nation using equal amounts of strategy and strength! Before each battle, you will meet with their war council to discuss military and political affairs; then it’s time for combat. Samurai Warriors 2 Empires is a tantalizing blend of strategy and true warrior action.
With a stylized recreation of Japan’s Sengoku or “Warring States” era, Samurai Warriors 2 Empires is sure to captivate anyone fascinated by Samurai culture. Special events in the game chronicle major turning points in Japan’s history including “The Honnōji Incident” where the powerful warlord Oda Nobunaga, met his demise, and “The Battle of Kawanakajima,” considered the largest and most prolonged encounter of the Warring States era.
In addition to the game’s main Empire Mode, Samurai Warriors 2 Empires includes a “Free Mode,” which allows you to choose any stage and fight through it using any officer in the game. The game’s “Archives” offers an extensive gallery overflowing with rare artwork, CG sequences, and detailed information on tactics and formations, as well as visual and voice samples of all officers and troops within the game.
Demo of Crackdown TODAY on Xbox Live Marketplace !
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We just got "official" word from the PR agency of Microsoft saying that the "Crackdown demo" will be propped to Xbox Live Marketplace TODAY at 11.00am EUROPEAN time.
Now go download it all when its online and remember where you read it first!
Classic Zelda Game Announced For Wii Shop Channel
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Today Nintendo adds one of the most popular games in its library of classics to the Wii™ video game system's Wii Shop Channel. The Legend of Zelda™: A Link to the Past™ goes live at 9 a.m. Pacific time.
Nintendo adds new games to the channel every Monday. Wii owners with a high-speed Internet connection can redeem Wii Points to download the games. Wii Points can be purchased in the Wii Shop Channel or at retail outlets.
The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past (Super NES®, 1 player, 800 Wii Points): Return to an age of magic and heroes. When an evil magician named Agahnim begins kidnapping young maidens in Hyrule in a quest to break the imprisoning seal on Ganon, a young boy named Link is called upon to stop him. Link must venture into twisting mazes, dungeons, palaces and shadowy forests as he searches for the maidens and Princess Zelda. Traversing both Light and Dark Worlds, he must navigate eight dark dungeons, fighting evil enemies and huge bosses. Help our hero prevent Ganon and Agahnim from shattering Hyrule forever.
Hotel Dusk: Room 215 now available for DS in NA
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The date is Dec. 28, 1979. Disgraced New York detective Kyle Hyde checks into the seedy Hotel Dusk in Los Angeles and suddenly finds himself embroiled in a 30-year-old murder mystery.
This is the story of Hotel Dusk: Room 215™, available exclusively for the portable Nintendo DS™ on Jan. 24. The dual screens of a player's Nintendo DS display stylized sketch animation evoking a comic-book-like film noir. Conversations with more than a dozen characters help players piece together different story elements as the mystery deepens. Players decide where the story goes next by weighing their options and tapping their decision on the touch screen using the stylus.
"Hotel Dusk: Room 215 could be considered a new genre for both video games and storytelling," explains George Harrison, Nintendo of America's senior vice president of marketing and corporate communications. "Just as audio books brought the printed word to a new medium, so does this new 'video game book.' "
Hotel Dusk: Room 215 features deep characters, grown-up themes and an engrossing plot. It has more in common with a gritty crime novel than a video game, and appeals to mystery lovers and video game fans alike. As the plot develops, players must make choices before they begin each conversation, like deciding whether to strong-arm a subject or play it cool. Players hold the portable Nintendo DS system sideways like a book, and the touch-screen controls make it easy for newcomers to pick up and play, even if they have never played a video game before. Nintendo's aim is to expand the world of video games to new audiences through creative new interfaces.
Ubisoft launches Driver 76 ONLY for PSP
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Today Ubisoft, one of the world’s largest video game publishers, announced that it will launch the Driver 76 video game for the PSP.
Driver 76 will feature all-new content with 27 new missions exclusively designed for gaming on the go. Driver 76 is the first all-new edition of the famed Driver series to be released since Ubisoft acquired the franchise in 2006. Developed by Sumo Digital Ltd. and Ubisoft’s Reflections studio, Driver 76 will be released in March 2007.
Faithful to the brand spirit, Driver 76 is an action driving game that features Hollywood-style car chases while also letting the player experience the open environment on foot. The game thrusts the player into the heart of the 1970s, through 27 missions divided into six main plots. Players can take side jobs, earning cash that can be used to modify their rides. Driver 76 also offers an extensive multiplayer mode and a host of mini-games ranging from street races to all out carnage in Destruction Derby mode.
Final Fantasy XI With German And French Languages
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Square Enix Ltd., the publisher of Square Enix® interactive entertainment products in Europe and other PAL territories, announced today the March launch of the forthcoming German and French service of FINAL FANTASY® XI.
FINAL FANTASY XI began its English service in Europe in September 2004. Now, with the launch of German and French services, Square Enix will be aiming for a greater number of users in German/French-speaking areas.
From early March 2007, we will be offering a language conversion download that will make it possible to play FINAL FANTASY XI in French or German. Available from PlayOnline®, this service will be free of charge. You can change your game to the language of your choice with no additional fees to the monthly subscription charge.
From late March a new all-in-one package of Final Fantasy XI will be released in Europe for new players. The new packaged version allows you to play in German, French or English. Further details of the new all-in-one pack will be announced at a later date.
How to play the German/French versions
From early March 2007, we will be offering a language conversion download that will make it possible to play FINAL FANTASY XI in French or German.
This service is available for those who play using the EU version of the FINAL FANTASY XI package currently on sale (both Windows® and Xbox 360™ versions).
The display language is automatically changed to the current Windows/Xbox 360 settings when the PlayOnline Viewer is activated. It will still be possible to switch between languages, including English. Further details will be released at a later date.
Crackdown Goes Finally Gold
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Microsoft Game Studios today announced that the highly-anticipated action title “Crackdown” has gone gold. From developer Realtime Worlds and the mind of acclaimed creator, Dave Jones, “Crackdown” is poised to raid retail throughout the UK on 23rd February.
Boasting an immersive – and highly explosive – three-dimensional world in which players can rain down justice from rooftop to road, “Crackdown” offers gamer the opportunity to take down the gangs of Pacific City in a massive, single-player campaign or with a friend over the title’s cooperative mode via Xbox Live.
“The excitement for ‘Crackdown’ is evident through the significant number of pre-orders and affirms the continued Xbox 360 momentum in 2007.” stated Jeff Bell, Corporate Vice President Global Marketing in the Interactive Entertainment Business Entertainment and Devices Division at Microsoft Corp.
Those gamers anxious to get an early glimpse at the title will be able to enjoy the “Crackdown” demo available through Xbox Live Marketplace this month. And, as previously announced, “Crackdown” fans will be offered a special bonus with the purchase of each specially-marked copy – access to the coveted “Halo 3” Multiplayer Beta program.
From Realtime Worlds, “Crackdown” pushes the action-driving hybrid genre into the next generation with the first ever truly 3-D playground. Gamers will level up their Agent’s strength, agility, firearms, explosives and driving skills while scaling the fully vertical world of “Crackdown.” This 15 bbfc rated game incorporates revolutionary co-op gameplay throughout the entire freeform campaign. Creating a volatile cocktail of judicial oppression, players will clean up the streets of a truly interactive world when ”Crackdown” hits store shelves at a suggested retail price of £44.99.
Fatal Inertia and Bladestorm delayed for PS3
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KOEI, recognized as the premier brand of strategy and action games, today announced that FATAL INERTIA™ and BLADESTORM™: THE HUNDRED YEARS’ WAR for PlayStation®3 and Xbox 360™ videogame and entertainment system, will arrive at North American retailers this summer.
“Both titles are taking advantage of new game engines and hardware. We are allowing our development teams additional time to further explore the capabilities and potential of each system by extending the product launches for a simultaneous platform release this summer,” said Amos Ip Senior Vice-President at KOEI Corporation.
Two Worlds Coming To Xbox 360
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SouthPeak Interactive, a leading independent videogame publisher, today announced that its massive, open-ended role-playing game, Two Worlds, will be released this spring for the Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system from Microsoft.
Developed by Las Vegas-based TopWare Interactive and Reality Pump Studios, Two Worlds is an evolution of the role-playing genre. Combining unlimited character development and fierce, spectacular combat, Two Worlds brings a new kind of gameplay experience where players are encouraged to experiment with the world, test the results of good and evil deeds and find the most satisfying way to face challenges. Never before has an RPG given gamers such an unprecedented level of freedom to change the world and shape the story within it – for the first time, choices made in an RPG game are actually meaningful.
Expanding the depth of gameplay even further, Two Worlds online multiplayer action allows up to 8 people to adventure together online via Xbox Live® online entertainment network. Gather with your friends and battle cooperatively, exchange equipment, or simply attack them and see who’s left standing.
“Two Worlds is quickly shaping up to be an experience that sets the benchmark of what a role-playing experience can be,” said Katie Morgan, Executive Vice President of SouthPeak Interactive. “We couldn’t be more excited to be bringing this gargantuan title to both Windows and Xbox 360 gamers.”
Experience Maze Madness With Kororinpa For Wii
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Prepare to rock and roll as your brain does a loop the loop with the ultimate Wii puzzle game! Players must complete testing and taxing mazes as Kororinpa rolls across Europe on 23rd February 2007, only on Wii. Kororinpa is published by Hudson and distributed by Nintendo.
Using tilting Wii’s motion sensitive Wii Remote with poise and precision, players must seek to navigate their favourite cute and quirky balls, each with their own look and varying benefits, through complex 3D mazes. Therefore no complicated button combinations are necessary, the tactile controls allow players to tip and tilt their environment in all directions, even upside-down to 180 degrees - making the game intuitive and easy for anyone to pick up and play, whilst still remaining challenging and addictive.
A steady hand and a keen strategic eye are key to keep your favourite ball on the right track in Kororinpa. As the maze is tilted the ball will move as it would in real life, as if pulled by gravity. But beware; too much slant could see the ball roll out of control off the edge of the maze sending the player back to the start! Whist progressing along the course, players must also collect all the Red Crystals to unlock the goal, which in turn unlocks the next maze adding yet more precision and strategy to the challenges.
To prove yourself as the ball master, you can also go head to head against a friend using one Wii Remote and Nunchuk controller, splitting the screen either horizontally or vertically. In multiplayer mode the first player to reach the end of the maze collecting all their Red Crystals will reign victorious over their fellow contender!
With over 50 quirky mazes available to unlock and five different environments to experience there will always be a new and exciting challenge around the corner. Each environment has its own unique music, obstacles and visual style for the player to enjoy. Whilst progressing through the game players should also keep a look out for Green Crystals that unlock secret environments and even more stages to challenge even the most experienced puzzlers.
As if that wasn’t tricky enough, each of your balls has a varying level of Response, Speed, Slide and Bounce. Players must therefore select their ball carefully in order to successfully complete Kororinpa. As more levels are completed the types of balls that can be selected will increase, including balls such as a ladybug, cat, penguin, watermelon and even a pig, each boasting different characteristics and varying levels of control.
Kororinpa will roll its way across Europe on Wii on 23rd February 2007 at an estimated retail price of around €49 (approximately £34 in the UK).
Pieces of Eight in Development
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Independent game developer, Hidden Sanctum, developer of the casual game Rune Rescue and the upcoming Raven’s Hollow, today announced the development and release of the game trailer for "Pieces of Eight" for the PC. Pieces of Eight is a 1st-person point-n-click adventure game set in New England during modern times.
Following the crack down on piracy in the Caribbean during the late 1600’s, eight of the most notorious cutthroats forge an alliance and ply the New England coast. After decades of amassing unimaginable wealth, they suddenly vanish in 1722. Rumors of an elaborate underground complex filled with treasure on one of the islands off the coast slowly fades from memory…undiscovered. Nearly 300 years have passed and the stories have all but been forgotten. That is, until you receive a package with cryptic clues about a mysterious island off the coast of New Hampshire…
Pieces of Eight is scheduled for a Q2 2007 release.
Nintendo DS Breaks Records !
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The Nintendo DS has gone from strength to strength since its launch in March 2005, with sales dwarfing those of all other consoles as Nintendo attracts all-new audiences to the gaming industry. Now after just one year and ten months on sale, Nintendo DS has become the fastest games console in European history to sell 10 million (sell-thru to customers) and with 1.7 million units selling in December 2006 alone it is also by far the best selling handheld games console across Europe.
The success of Nintendo DS has been driven by Nintendo’s range of innovative Touch! Generations games, targeted at non-traditional audiences. Nintendogs which launched in October 2005, is now being enjoyed by over five million Europeans, whilst titles like Dr Kawashima’s Brain Training: How old is your brain? have been enjoying similar success with over two million copies sold to consumers to date in Europe. What’s more six months after its launch sales are still going strong and it’s maintaining a high position in sales charts across Europe!
Traditional gaming titles are also achieving significant growth with total sales of New Super Mario Bros., Super Mario 64 DS, Mario Kart DS, Pokémon Mystery Dungeon and Animal Crossing: Wild World all surpassing the million sold mark in Europe. The success doesn’t end there with dozens of third party games such as The Sims 2 Pets (Electronic Arts), Sonic Rush (SEGA) and Disney's Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest (Buena Vista Games) selling at a significant rate in Europe.
Laurent Fischer, European Marketing Director said:
“Nintendo DS topped the six million mark in September and has continued to go from strength to strength with thousands of new people being introduced to gaming through the Nintendo DS. Its appeal to both gamers and non-gamers means it has expanded the gaming population significantly. This landmark figure of 10 million Nintendo DS gamers cements the console’s position as undisputed leader of the handheld market, bringing gaming to a whole new audience - something that was unimaginable a few years ago! The innovative Nintendo DS is now helping to shape the whole market with sales of the Nintendo DS console and games being the main drivers behind recent market growth all across Europe.”
Nintendo is continuing to build on this momentum with a dynamic range of exciting, new games including Mario Slam Basketball, Star Fox Command, Actionloop, and the highly anticipated legendary Final Fantasy III from Square-Enix, all scheduled for launch in 2007.
The Nintendo DS Lite is now available in black, white and pink, priced around at 150 Euros (£99 UK). The Nintendo DS is available across Europe in blue, silver and pink at around 130 Euros (£89 UK).
Bionicle Heroes Set For Release On Nintendo Wii
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Eidos Interactive, one of the world’s leading publishers and developers of entertainment software, and TT Games, the makers of the BAFTA Award winning LEGO® Star Wars series, today confirms its first LEGO adventure to arrive on the Nintendo Wii console: BIONICLE HEROES, will be released this Easter 2007.
BIONICLE HEROES brings to life the most powerful and exciting BIONICLE characters ever seen in one game, in an action-packed world of adventure and discovery.
Take control of the heroic Toa as they battle against the dastardly Piraka for the ‘Mask of Life’ across the mysterious island of Voya Nui. The Nintendo Wii™ Remote and Nunchuk give the player ultimate control as you learn to master the skills and weapons of all your favourite heroes.
The Nintendo Wii version comes hot on the heels of the successful launch of BIONICLE HEROES on PlayStation™ 2, PC, Nintendo Game Boy Advance™, Nintendo DS™, Microsoft 360 and NINTENDO GAMECUBE™ (NTSC only).
“We're delighted to be able to bring BIONICLE HEROES to a platform as innovative as the Wii. The unique control mechanic will provide a completely new gameplay experience and will immerse the player even further into the world of BIONICLE." said Scott Dodkins, European Managing Director for Eidos Interactive.
BIONICLE HEROES will be available on Nintendo Wii from Easter 2007.
New add-on content soon available for Lumines Live!
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Three new packages of Lumines Live! content will be available for download on Xbox Live Arcade for Xbox 360™ beginning Wednesday, 24th January at 09.00 GMT.
Two of the add-on packs will be available at special promotional prices, and one of them will be free to Xbox Box Live Gold Members for a limited time!
In case you’ve been living under a rock, “Lumines Live!” combines puzzles, music and video entertainment to create an addictively-fun gameplay experience that looks and sounds as good as it plays. Play several different single player modes, battle friends online over Xbox Live, create your own skins playlist in the all-new Skin Edit Mode, and experience new ways to play via exclusive downloadable content to enhance and extend the gameplay experience.
Here’s what will be available to download for Lumines Live!:
Heavenly Star Skin
Cost: For a limited time only, free for Xbox Live Gold members from 24th January – 21st February, 2007.
(Price after 21st February 2007: 150 MS Points)
Performed by a new group called Genki Rockets and produced by Q Entertainment’s own Tetsuya Mizuguchi, the song's catchy and uplifting tune combined with equally striking video has caught the attention of many gamers and was recently nominated Best Song at the 2006 Spike TV Video Game Awards. Gamers can enjoy the music video in stunning HD and 5.1 surround sound as they play their way through the falling blocks.
VS CPU Pack
Cost: For a limited time only, 100 MS Points starting 24th January – 21st February 2007. (Price after 21st February 2007: 300 MS Points)
Show off your skills by challenging the CPU. This new game pack also includes a stylish skin and character designs that match the theme of each of the stages. A special bonus skin is waiting for you at the very end of the challenge.
Puzzle/Mission Pack
Cost: For a limited time only, 100 MS Points starting 24th January – 21st February 2007. (Price after 21st February 2007: 300 MS Points)
“Lumines Live!” is not just about dropping blocks. In Puzzle Mode, you must try to create a certain shape by using the blocks. In Mission Mode, you will be given a mission to clear all blocks within a specified amount of moves. With an additional 90 puzzles to solve and 40 missions to clear, you won’t want to miss this Pack. (The first 10 puzzles and missions are included in the Standard Edition; by purchasing the Pack, the total number is 100 puzzles and 50 missions)
Sequel to Pursuit Force in the works for PSP
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Following the success of Pursuit Force on PSP, Sony Computer Entertainment Europe and Bigbig Studios are delighted to announce the highly anticipated sequel to one of the best-selling games on PSP, Pursuit Force: Extreme Justice – coming to both PSP and PlayStation®2 (PS2) this summer.
Pursuit Force: Extreme Justice follows hot on the heels of its predecessor with an action-packed Hollywood-style blockbuster for PSP and PS2 that demands new levels of speed and a fresh approach to law enforcement, as the Pursuit Force are called upon again to save Capital City from a scourge of gangs terrorising the streets. The Convicts and Warlords are back and the new gangs ripping Capital City apart are:
Raiders – Professional Raiders, specialising in striking hard and fast and staging ambushes
The Syndicate – A gang of professional bank robbers looking to steal anything of value…by any means possible
With the new gangs turning the city into a warzone, and with a new heavy handed rival arm of the police (Viper division) for the Pursuit Force to contend with, Extreme Justice is packed with new features to help the Pursuit Force rid the streets of crime. The chase becomes more lethal with faster and larger vehicles to jump between including gigantic tanks, trains and even the wings of an aeroplane. Bigger and better bad guys deliver epic boss battles, as the war on Capital City’s gangland reaches anarchic proportions.
Versatility is key, with a variety of vehicles available, including a bike and sidecar, jet skis and a hovercraft to ensure the Pursuit Force stay one step ahead of the criminals. Switching seamlessly between vehicle and ground combat, players can take out bad guys on foot in classic Hollywood cop style, and in vehicles, including a helicopter, with mounted high calibre guns for maximum destruction.
Other new features include (for PSP) four-player wi-fi and two-player split screen multiplayer (on PS2), a “Justice Bar” which offers the chance to regain strength and prolong a mission, three difficulty levels and finally, new recruits - the Pursuit Force: Extreme Justice Division has expanded and now comprises of Sarah (Air Support), Gage (High Speed Pursuit), Ash (Special Operations) and Preach (Heavy Assault) to support and interact with the player as they take down the gangs and save the city.
The blockbuster action in Extreme Justice is set to an all new Hollywood inspired storyline, making this the classic action sequel of the summer. With death defying jumps from vehicle to vehicle (also shown in ultra motion), extreme modes of transport and merciless gangs, Pursuit Force: Extreme Justice is well-equipped to be the PSP and PS2 action game of the year.
Booster Pack for Battlefield 2142 coming in March
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Electronic Arts today announced that Battlefield 2142: Northern Strike is currently in development for the PC. The booster pack is being developed at EA Digital Illusions (DICE) studio in Stockholm, Sweden and is slated for release in March 2007.
Battlefield 2142: Northern Strike drops gamers deep into a desperate conflict for control of Earth’s last scraps of inhabitable land following the onset of a cataclysmic new ice age. The Pan-Asian Coalition (PAC) has secretly moved into mainland Europe, using abandoned urban areas to establish new strongholds in a last-ditch push for superiority. The European Union must quickly mobilize north to dislodge PAC forces from a series of urban strongholds and regain the upper hand.
Battlefield 2142: Northern Strike features three new maps, including the infamous WWII battle scene at the Bridge at Remagen, an Alpine Titan docking harbour in Port Bavaria and a claustrophobic showdown in the Liberation of Leipzig. The booster pack also features new vehicles including the EU’s heavily armed IFV Goliath and the PAC’s hovering light IFV Hachimoto in addition to new unlocks, new badges and ribbons, new gameplay and more.
“Our number one goal with Battlefield 2142: Northern Strike was to give fans more of the close-quarters combat, increased persistence and new toys they’ve been asking for,” said Kristoffer Bergqvist, the booster pack’s producer. “We’ve also added gameplay enhancements including two brand new vehicle types in an asymmetrical set-up. Furthermore, we’re introducing the Titan game mode available into an urban setting and will debut the intensified Conquest Assault Lines game mode.”
Heavy Weapon: Atomic Tank now available for Xbox Live Arcade
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PopCap Games®, the leading developer and publisher of casual games, today announced that its popular arcade-action game Heavy Weapon™ is now available on Xbox Live Arcade on the Xbox 360™.
The new version, titled Heavy Weapon: Atomic Tank, features new multiplayer Mission and Survival modes, as well as an all-new “Boss Rush” mode, leader boards, high-definition graphics and other features and is available exclusively on Xbox Live Arcade. Available now for 800 Microsoft Points, Heavy Weapon can be played in trial mode prior to purchase.
“Our goal with Heavy Weapon was to make a game in the vein of the old collaborative-style arcade games like Ikari Warriors, where you and a friend could play together as a team, just enjoying the visceral sensation of blowing lots of stuff up,” said Jason Kapalka, Chief Creative Officer at PopCap. “We spent a lot of time revamping Heavy Weapon for Xbox Live Arcade, and I think it shows; the game plays and looks better, and works beautifully with the Xbox 360 controller. We haven’t been able to stop playing the beta version here in our offices, so it should be well received by the XBLA masses!”
“PopCap has done it again with Heavy Weapon – delivering classic arcade-style action with a sense of humor and a deep understanding of what makes a game truly fun,” said Greg Canessa, GM of Xbox Live Arcade at Microsoft. “Heavy Weapon is perfect for our audience: it’s simple enough for even the novice player to enjoy immediately while also offering the most inveterate gamer plenty of action and excitement. And the multiplayer modes in the new version make Heavy Weapon different every time you play with friends, whether over Xbox Live or in person.”
Heavy Weapon is a side-scrolling action game in which the player strives to defeat hordes of enemy armies in the form of tanks, jeeps, fighter jets, helicopters and other land and air vehicles. Power-ups and secret weapons that provide additional speed, shields, firepower and more help the player overcome increasingly nasty enemy forces and bosses while progressing through levels representing the oppressed (fictitious) countries over which the war is being waged. Multiplayer functionality exclusively available for the XBLA version of the game enables players to join with up to two friends in Mission mode or three friends in a Survival game, locally or on the Live Arcade service.
Official Expansion pack for Oblivion announced !
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Bethesda Softworks, a ZeniMax Media company, today confirmed the upcoming release of The Elder Scrolls IV: Shivering Isles, the official expansion for the award-winning The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion.
Shivering Isles will be released for Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and Windows this Spring. Details are presented in the exclusive cover story for Official Xbox Magazine’s (US) February issue, which hits newsstands this week.
Shivering Isles features more than 30 hours of new gameplay and allows you to explore an entirely new plane of Oblivion – the realm of Sheogorath, the Daedric Prince of Madness. Shivering Isles adds to the existing world of Oblivion so you can continue playing with your existing save game/character, or create an all new character just to explore the new content.
“We’re thrilled with the response that Oblivion has received to date and feel that Shivering Isles will offer a whole new and different experience to anyone who played and enjoyed Oblivion,” said Todd Howard, executive producer for The Elder Scrolls.
Within the Realm of Sheogorath, players can explore the two extreme sides of the god’s madness – the sublimely creative and the completely psychotic. Something is happening to the Shivering Isles and Sheogorath himself looks to you to be his champion and defend his realm and its inhabitants from destruction. Do you have the strength to survive his trials, tame a realm fraught with paranoia and despair, and wear the mantle of a God?
The Shivering Isles features a bizarre landscape split between the two sides – Mania and Dementia –filled with vast, twisting dungeons mirroring the roots of the trees they are buried within. You’ll encounter more than a dozen new creatures including hideous insects, Flesh Atronachs, skeletal Shambles, amphibious Grummites. Throughout your adventure, you will discover all new items, ingredients, spells, and more, and have the talented craftsmen of Crucible and Bliss forge new armor and weapons just for you.
“The enthusiastic response we’ve received to our downloadable content has been overwhelming, and we’re excited to bring Oblivion fans a full expansion,” said Vlatko Andonov, president of Bethesda Softworks. “The world we’ve created for Shivering Isles is unlike anything you’ve seen or played in Oblivion and we can’t wait for folks to play it.”
Namco Bandai Announces Tamagotchi Party On! For Wii
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Leading video games publisher and developer NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc. announced today that Tamagotchi® Party On! for the Wii video game console from Nintendo will be coming to North America this Spring 2007.
This 3D party game based on the Tamagotchi franchise promises tons of fun as up-to-four players can go head-to-head in the most comical and cute campaign race to become the most popular Tamagotchi on Tamagotchi Planet!
“Tamagotchi Party On! is a seamless blend of both party game and board game as players swing, shake, and turn their Wii controllers in order to control their favorite Tamagotchi,” said Naruo Uchida, NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc.’s Vice President of Localization. “It’s the wackiest and cutest popularity contest ever as up-to-four players compete in fun mini-games to become the president of Tamagotchi planet.”
Swing your Wii controllers and turn the whole planet into your playing board. Tamagotchi Party On! allows players to choose their favorite virtual pet and engage in a hilarious campaign to become the next president of Tamagotchi Planet. Earn your popularity by going up against three friends or solo in over 15 unique and totally addictive mini-games including shaking hands, finding lost children, and testing your public speaking skills! In order to succeed at each of these mini games, players will have to swing, shake, point, turn and twist their Wii controllers in order to increase their popularity.
Gamers can also use Gotchi points that they earn along the way to level up their characters and customize their very own campaign headquarters. With over six different towns to win over and tons of popularity points to be earned in a number of fun and quirky mini-games, Tamagotchi Party On! brings out the fun in politics without all the mudslinging! Be happy! Be popular! Be president!
Koei releases Fatal Inertia & Bladestorm Release Date
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Koei Ltd. has today announced that Fatal Inertia and BLADESTORM will be released Summer ’07 in Europe on PS3.
Koei’s development teams will continue to work on these titles up until release to ensure the highest levels of quality possible.
About Fatal Inertia
Set in the 23rd Century Fatal Inertia mixes street racing, demolition derbies and rallying with a futuristic setting where machines no longer need wheels and the laws of physics govern all. The sport is called Inertia and it's one that offers a heady mix of speed, combat and real world environments that can be used to make your victory and break your opponents.
Fatal Inertia is the dynamic opening salvo from Koei's Canada studio. With a distinctly Western flair, this game represents the first step into an all-new genre for Koei. Fatal Inertia presents the stunning contrast of vibrant, futuristic vehicles battling and racing in a variety of beautiful, natural environments. There are a wide range of physics-based weapons, and you'll discover new ways to use them every time you play. Harnessing the power of the PlayStation 3, this game offers a physics engine that is core to the gameplay, and that offers complete interaction between vehicles, weapons, and environments. Combining speed, technique, and customizability, Fatal Inertia will bring players combat racing unlike anything they've ever experienced. This is truly the next generation!
About BLADESTORM
In the early half of the 14th century a quarrel over the succession to the French throne escalated into what history would define as the Hundred Years’ War. In 2007, KOEI’s upcoming video game, BLADESTORM™: THE HUNDRED YEARS’ WAR will bring to life the intensity and drama of a war-torn Medieval Europe featuring a rich tapestry of legendary characters including Joan of Arc and Prince Edward- later to be named the Black Prince.
Utilizing a new game engine attainable only through the power of next-generation hardware, the game’s armies will collide on the battlefield at an unprecedented scale. Countless numbers of men consumed with ferocious intensity will converge on screen, where tactics and cunning will combine with valor and might to determine who is left standing at the end of the day.
Ubisoft Announces Cosmic Family For The Wii
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Today Ubisoft, one of the world’s largest video game publishers, announced that Cosmic Family™, an exciting space adventure geared toward young children for the Wii™ and developed by Ubisoft’s Barcelona studio, will launch worldwide in mid-2007. By simply pointing their Wii Remote™, players will embark on an interactive tour of the Cosmic Family’s action-packed rocket.
“Cosmic Family is a great title for young Wii players and their families, with simple point-and-click controls that will be easy to learn and provide the freedom to navigate wherever players choose to go,” said John Parkes, EMEA Marketing Director at Ubisoft, “Families will enjoy playing this game together, as it unfolds more like an interactive adventure than a traditional video game.
Players will have a chance to interact with the Cosmic Family, where they will meet Mom and Dad Cosmic, Big Sister, the two small children, the aloof dog, the lazy cat, and plenty of colorful monsters. With 15 early-learning mini-games found throughout the five floors of the rocket-house, families can pilot a rocket into space, discover what the stars are hiding, create and color whimsical images, customize rooms, brush a monster’s teeth, play dress-up with various characters, nurture plants from seeds and more. This fun, original and colorful game is designed to improve children’s memory, hand-eye coordination, creativity and imagination.
EA launches Boom Boom Rocket over on Xbox Live Arcade
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Electronic Arts today announced its launch onto Microsoft’s Xbox Live® Arcade with Boom Boom Rocket™.
The game is a hypnotic rhythm music game conceived by EA’s Pogo,com™ casual games design team and developed by Bizarre Creations, the developer who brought Project Gotham Racing® 3 to the Xbox 360™, and fan-favourite Geometry Wars: Retro Evolved to Xbox Live Arcade. The game is scheduled to go live Spring 2007 and is EA’s first title on Xbox Live Arcade.
In Boom Boom Rocket, players trigger rockets to the beat of the music while travelling through a 3D cityscape. The better the player times the explosions, the more spectacular the fireworks effects. The fireworks are choreographed to 10 original tracks created by Ian Livingstone. Players can play in single player mode or go head-to-head against a friend on the same console.
“Boom Boom Rocket is an addictive and original challenge for all types of gamer, and we"re enjoying working with EA to create this unique Xbox Live Arcade experience”, said Martyn Chudley, Managing Director of Bizarre Creations. “Our teams love both working and playing on Xbox Live Arcade, and we"re looking forward to releasing another innovative title on this platform with Boom Boom Rocket.”
“This is a perfect time to bring such a unique and custom-built arcade game to Xbox Live Arcade gamers,” said Chip Lange, EA Vice President. “We’ve crafted Boom Boom Rocket to offer an intensely fun entertainment experience for the thriving community of hard core and casual gamers alike on Xbox Live Arcade.