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] [Posted by Bjorn on Monday, October 30 2006 @ 20:23 CET]Major Autumn Xbox 360 update tomorrow !
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The Autumn update ushers in the 6th generation of Xbox Live, the world's largest online gaming & entertainment network with four million members and growing everyday.
Beginning the morning of Tuesday 31st October, owners of the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft™ around the world will be able to download a free system update that will provide more than 85 new features and enhancements, including support for native 1080p games and movies, faster Arcade game list display times and even more choices when it comes to video playback options.
This free update will be distributed via the Xbox Live® online gaming and entertainment network to all members (Xbox Live Silver and Xbox Live Gold) with no disc or hard drive required. Gamers without an Xbox Live account can easily sign up for free by connecting their console to a broadband Internet connection. Once online, downloading the update is fast and simple, and provides instant access to features such as:
Expanded HD Display and Video Playback Options
· With 1080p resolution, gamers now have the ability to enjoy both game and video content in the best HD resolution currently available.
· Expanded video playback options increase the ways gamers can enjoy video content on Xbox 360. It is now possible to stream WMV video from a Windows PC running Windows Media Player 11 or Windows Media Connect.
· Gamers can now play video files from data CDs and DVDs, as well as from storage devices like USB 2.0 flash drives and Xbox 360 Memory Units.
· Xbox 360 will support 50hz HDTV display modes, providing viewers greater choice in how they watch DVD and HD DVD content.
Xbox Live Arcade Enhancements
· Keeping up to date on Xbox Live Arcade games is now even more convenient with the ability to automatically download newly released Xbox Live Arcade trial games. This eliminates the need to manually search for new downloads on Xbox Live Marketplace each time a new game trial is released.
· Fast Enumeration of Games. You’ll see the games in your Xbox Live Arcade collection appear almost instantly. Get in and play right away.
· With so many games to choose from, Xbox Live Arcade added new sorting options such as “Recently Played” and “By Category.” These enhancements make managing Xbox Live Arcade collections faster and easier than ever.
· A new expanded Friends Leaderboard within Xbox Live Arcade allows gamers to compare themselves directly against their friends and view leaderboard details of their top-10 friends.
· A new expanded Achievements View within Xbox Live Arcade lets gamers view their full Achievement details for their Arcade games including descriptions, icons, allotted Gamerscore and more, right from the Xbox Live Arcade dashboard interface.
· The “Play Now” launch feature has been streamlined. Selecting “Play Now” after downloading a game in Xbox Live Marketplace now bypasses Arcade and takes you directly to the game.
· Xbox Live Arcade now offers a “Tell a Friend” feature. Select this from the game info screen to send any friend on your friends list a message telling them about the Arcade game.
FREE NEW Halloween Level for LocoRoco !!
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Monday, October 30 2006 @ 16:49 CET]
Since we just (a few seconds ago) received this press release from Sony, we're sure this isn't posted anywhere YET, except here on PlayDevil.com
And anybody who has the fantastic and original adventure game "LocoRoco" for the PSP will be delighted to know that Sony has released a FREE new Halloween Level for the game !
Indeed, FREE ! All you have to do is get online with your PSP, go to http://www.yourpsp.com and download the free level!
LocoRoco is probably the best game for the PSP and if you haven't got it , shame on you!
NEW SOTW: new Lara Croft adventure game!
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Monday, October 30 2006 @ 16:45 CET]
Eidos just made an announcement regarding a new Lara Croft adventure game in the works (see one of the previous newsposts) called "Lara Croft: Tombraider Anniversary" and of course we present you the VERY FIRST screenshot of this new Lara Croft game.
You can find it in our SOTW (Shot Of The Week) section, right side of every page, right under "Latest Demos".
Have fun and don't ...
Eidos Celebrates with Lara Croft Tomb Raider: Anniversary
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Monday, October 30 2006 @ 16:35 CET]
Eidos Interactive Ltd., one of the world’s leading publishers and developers of entertainment software, today confirms that the next Tomb Raider game will be entitled Lara Croft Tomb Raider: Anniversary and is set for release on PlayStation 2, PlayStation Portable (PSP) and PC in 2007.
Inspired by the first Tomb Raider videogame, originally released in 1996, LARA CROFT TOMB RAIDER: ANNIVERSARY is a totally new 2006 adventure for Lara, faithfully preserving the elements which made the original Tomb Raider such a classic, selling over 7 million copies worldwide. Using an enhanced ‘Tomb Raider: Legend’ game engine, the graphics, technology, physics and engine bring Lara’s adventure and pursuit of a mystical artefact known only as the Scion right up to today’s technology standards and will offer gamers a completely new gameplay experience.
“Over the years we have had literally thousands of requests to re-make the original Tomb Raider for today’s gamer, we have gone a step further, we have taken the original story and made a completely new version for Tomb Raider: Anniversary.” said Kathryn Clements, Senior Brand Manager, Eidos. “We are re-telling an incredible story using today’s technology, we’ve taken all of the key moments from the original game and put them into the context of a brand new Tomb Raider adventure which will make fans of the franchise extremely happy but also attract a completely new audience.”
“We’ve captured the essence of what made the original game so special and with today’s technology, created a game that pushes the boundaries of the current gaming consoles. Tomb Raider :Anniversary is a special celebration of Lara’s reign as videogaming’s leading lady” said Ian Livingstone, Eidos.
Lara Croft Tomb Raider: Anniversary is currently in development by Crystal Dynamics and will be available in 2007 on PlayStation 2, PSP and PC
Warhammer: Mark Of Chaos Battles To Gold
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Monday, October 30 2006 @ 16:35 CET]
Leading video games publisher and developer NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc. today announced that the real-time strategy PC game, Warhammer®: Mark of Chaos™ has gone gold and will be available in stores throughout North America beginning November 14th. Featuring epic battles, fully customizable units and maps and a variety of play modes and multiplayer options, Warhammer: Mark of Chaos is the second title launching from NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc.’s PC division.
“Warhammer: Mark of Chaos will transport gamers into the fantasy war-torn battlefields of the legendary Warhammer universe, with epic battles on an enormous scale,” said Makoto Iwai, Senior Vice President of the Development Group at NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc. “The release of Warhammer: Mark of Chaos is a testament to NAMCO BANDAI Games’ continued commitment to PC gaming."
Developed by Black Hole Entertainment, a subsidiary of Cinergi Interactive, Warhammer: Mark of Chaos puts the focus squarely on the battlefield with a real-time combat system that gives the player unprecedented customization and control of his/her army. An epic battle rages following a brutal Chaos invasion, where four fully playable armies (Empire, Chaos, Skaven and High Elves) as well as additional controllable races (Orcs and Goblins, Dwarfs and Vampire Counts) clash on a massive battlefield.
Warhammer: Mark of Chaos centers on massive armies and real-time battling. The game’s heroic quest reveals a grand sense of both scale and detail, in which monstrous demons and vast customizable armies clash with thousands of characters in intricate detail. Buildable features and a variety of terrains such as forests, swamps, plains and tundra change the shape of the battlefield and add a layer of strategy to provide players infinite replayability.
Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell Double Agent For PC Has Gone Gold
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Ubisoft, one of the world’s largest video game publishers, today announces that the PC version of Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell Double Agent™ is now gold and will be on store shelves from 9th November, 2006.
About Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell Double Agent
In the highly anticipated sequel to the 2005 game of the year, Tom Clancy’s Splinter Cell Double Agent, play as a double agent spy for the first time ever. Take on dual roles of covert operative and ruthless terrorist, where your choices of whom to betray and whom to protect actually affect the outcome of your game.
Experience the relentless tension and gut-wrenching dilemmas of life as a double agent. Lie. Kill. Sabotage. Betray. All to protect the innocent. How far will you go to gain the enemy’s trust? As covert operative Sam Fisher, you must infiltrate a vicious terrorist group and destroy it from within. You’ll need to carefully weigh the consequences of your actions. Kill too many terrorists and you’ll blow your cover. Hesitate and millions will die. Do whatever it takes to complete your mission, but get out alive.
Updated Call Of Duty 2 review for Xbox 360 online
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Our reviewer Nathar has done an updated review of Activisions splendid "WWII" game "Call of Duty 2". As of today, this game is still being played by many gamers over Xbox Live and it has to be said, Call of Duty 2 is the best WWII game, period.
Not convinced yet? Perhaps you can read Nathar's updated review of "Call of Duty 2" for Xbox 360 right here and find out for yourself!
Everybody here @ the office can't wait until "Call of Duty 3" is released on Xbox 360. Date: 10 November!
RACE – The Official WTCC demo released
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Friday, October 27 2006 @ 16:47 CET]
Eidos Interactive and Simbin Development Team are happy to announce the demo release of RACE – The Official WTCC Game. For the first time ever the close racing and intense action of the World Touring Car Championship can be experienced behind your own computer!
Featured cars in this PC demo are the Seat León and the BMW 320i, representing the versatility of the WTCC Championship. At the legendary circuit of Brands Hatch, UK, players can experience a taste of what’s to come. Chase your ghost in the Time Attack mode, push yourself to the limit and break your own record.
On top of this it’s also time to unveil the in-game support classes for the WTCC championship which will be featured in the full version of RACE – The Official WTCC Game. Next to the over 35 officially licensed touring cars there will be 2 additional classes, ‘WTCC 87’ and the 2006 Mini Cooper Challenge.
‘WTCC 87’ will give you the chance to drive 2 of the most fabled cars from this era, the Alfa Romeo 75 Turbo and the BMW e30 M3. These classic touring cars were the stars in the only ever Touring Car World Championship before Andy Priaulx won the revived World Championship in 2005. They were driven by names that are part of the 2006 season as well, such as Gabriele Tarquini (SEAT) and Nicola Larini (Chevrolet), or Roberto Ravaglia (Team manager BMW Italy-Spain) who won the championship that year.
The Mini Cooper Challenge offers racing as close as the Official WTCC, providing close racing and great spectacle. Being the ultimate starter class, the Mini’s offer a great opportunity to learn the basics of racing before progressing to the more advanced World Touring Cars. And above all an equal opportunity, as everybody is driving the same package in this field of over 30 cars.
Together with the Official 2006 WTCC Season these support classes will give you an experience you don’t want to miss. So download the demo and get a taste of what’s to come!
The PC demo and additional info on the support classes is available from the official RACE-website: www.race-game.org.
PlayDevil supports Belgian Game Event 'GamePowerExpo'
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On November 11th, something big gonna happen in Belgium regarding "gaming".
Indeed, the event "GamePowerExpo" (named to the game tv show GamePower) opens its doors to the public.
It will be held @ Flanders Expo (Ghent) and more info can be found on the official site right here
Playable PS3 !! games will be shown at the show (we can't wait!), Nintendo's Wii and tons of other PS2, PSP, PC, Xbox 360, etc games will be displayed as well for you to PLAY.
Since PlayDevil supports this event, we'll also be doing a "competition" for the event, giving away "5 FREE TICKETS" for the show!
So, watch this space next week and perhaps you'll WIN a free ticket to the biggest GAME event of Belgium, "GamePowerExpo".
STAR TREK: Tactical Assault for DS Ships
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Friday, October 27 2006 @ 14:54 CET]
Bethesda Softworks® today announced that STAR TREK: Tactical Assault™ for the Nintendo DS™ is now shipping to North American retail stores. STAR TREK: Tactical Assault for the PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system will follow closely behind, beginning to appear on store shelves the week of November 13th. Both versions feature exciting, real-time spaceship combat set in the universe of the original STAR TREK® series.
STAR TREK: Tactical Assault features two full-length campaigns for the Federation and the Klingon Empire. You take command of a powerful warship and must make split-second decisions under fire, outmaneuver enemy warships, and make calculated assessments about your enemy’s weaknesses while protecting your own. With a multitude of paths to choose from in each campaign, you will ultimately decide the direction and outcome of your story.
In addition to the story driven single-player campaigns, STAR TREK: Tactical Assault features high-energy, action-packed one-off battles found in the ‘Skirmish’ and ‘Wireless Multiplayer’ modes. The ‘Skirmish’ mode allows players to test their abilities against the A.I. while the wireless multiplayer action allows them to go head-to-head against a friend. In these special modes players can command ships from the Federation, Klingon, Romulan, Gorn, and Orion fleets.
Developed by Quicksilver Software under the direction of Bethesda Softworks, STAR TREK: Tactical Assault is rated E for Everyone.
Guild Wars Nightfall Ships Worldwide
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Guild Wars Nightfall™, one of the most anticipated PC game releases of 2006, is on its way to retailers and will be available on store shelves in Europe and North America on October 27, 2006. Nightfall™ is the latest campaign release in the award-winning Guild Wars® franchise created by ArenaNet® and published by NCsoft® Europe, the world’s leading developer and publisher of online computer games.
Set in the land of Elona, an evil ruler is attempting to summon her outcast god, and the stout of heart are asked to answer the rallying cry to fight back the looming darkness that falls on the land. As you explore opulent cities, brave savage coasts, delve deep into ancient monuments, and find your way across poisonous deserts you will determine the fate of the new realm of Elona.
To aid you in your duty, Nightfall introduces exciting new features such as:
· Heroes– customisable companions that level up with you, use weapons and skills of your choosing, and go forth with you into battle.
· Hero Battles, the ultimate one-on-one challenge, this new PvP (Player versus Player) game play allows two players, and their Heroes, to compete against one another.
· Templates will let players save, store, and exchange Hero builds, providing countless combinations to create the ultimate team of Heroes.
· Along with the new features are new missions, hundreds of new skills, new armour, two fierce new professions, and endless replay ability.
“The response to the recent preview events has been over whelming, so much that Guild Wars Nightfall is already being heralded as the best of the Guild Wars series,” says Geoff Heath, CEO, NCsoft Europe. “Nightfall brings innovative new features to the game that revolutionised the online gaming genre and NCsoft is thrilled to launch this flagship game.”
Guild Wars Nightfall will be available in both Standard and Collector’s Editions. The Collector’s Edition includes the Guild Wars Nightfall game as well as a Making of Guild Wars Nightfall behind-the-scenes DVD produced by Gameplay HD, a collector’s art book, collectible skill pins, a character mini-standee, a poster-sized map of Elona, the Guild Wars Nightfall soundtrack CD, and more.
Guild Wars, an instant bestseller in Europe and North America upon its release in April 2005, and Guild Wars Factions™, the number one game in both Europe and North America earlier this year, are global online role-playing games. With a suggested retail price of £29.99 and still no subscription fee, Guild Wars Nightfall will be available worldwide and servers supporting the new release will “go live” at 8:01 BST / 9:01 CET on October 27, 2006.
F.E.A.R. goes finally GOLD for Xbox 360
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Finally! We thought it would never happen but as from today, F.E.A.R. for the 360 has gone gold!
Full story right here:
Sierra Entertainment today announced that F.E.A.R™ for the Xbox 360™ gaming and entertainment system have gone gold and will shortly be shipped to stores.
Shipping October 31st, F.E.A.R for Xbox™ 360 is THE paranormal action thriller. An unprecedented adrenaline rush of close quarters combat seamlessly melded with the spine-tingling, shocking intensity of the supernatural. F.E.A.R. for Xbox™ 360 is bound to be that Halloween treat all gamers will be wanting.
Already a critical and commercial smash on the PC, F.E.A.R. brings a new level of FPS game play to Xbox 360. The Xbox 360 will contain new levels, stunning visual effects for an intense "action movie" experience, and unpredictable encounters with combat adaptable A.I. Also expect frenetic multiplayer support for up to 16 players and the brand new Instant Action Mode which is a new arcade style action filled with close quarters battles tracking player progress via XBOX Live leader boards. Prepare for the next generation of F.E.A.R.
The Legend Of Spyro: A New Beginning ships to UK stores
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Vivendi Games’ Sierra Entertainment division has announced that The Legend of Spyro™: A New Beginning, the latest installment to the 17 million-unit-selling Spyro® franchise, is now available at retail stores nationwide for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, Xbox® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, Nintendo GameCube™, Game Boy® Advance and Nintendo DS™.
The completely new Spyro redesign reveals the epic story of Spyro’s quest to discover his roots and realize his destiny and is amazingly brought to life by leading Hollywood voice-over cast members Elijah Wood (Frodo Baggins in The Lord of the Rings trilogy) as the new voice of Spyro; David Spade (The Benchwarmers) as Spyro’s sidekick Sparx the dragonfly; and Gary Oldman (Sirius Black from the Harry Potter films) as Ignitus, the Fire Dragon Elder and Spyro’s mentor.
“Since his 1998 debut, the true origin of Spyro the Dragon has remained a mystery…until now,” said Cindy Cook, chief strategy and marketing officer for Vivendi Games. “Not only does
The Legend of Spyro: A New Beginning uncover the genesis of this video game icon, but also delivers Spyro fans the ultimate adventure with an epic cinematic experience. The game features A-list voice-over talent and non-stop action and combat-focused gameplay that will engage gamers of all ages.”
“The Spyro franchise has been a strong leader in the platform genre over the past eight years selling 17 million units worldwide,” said Pascal Brochier, president, global retail, Vivendi Games. “We’re excited for The Legend of Spyro: A New Beginning to continue that tradition as must-have for buyers this holiday shopping season.”
Developed by critically-acclaimed developers Krome Studios (console and Game Boy Advance) and Amaze Entertainment (Nintendo DS), The Legend of Spyro: A New Beginning features gameplay focused heavily on dynamic action and fast-paced combat as Spyro evolves into a living, breathing weapon of explosive destruction! Players will experience the awesome power of the purple dragon as they unleash devastating fury attacks, upgradeable breaths and ground-to-aerial melee combos in frenzied battles with hordes of menacing enemies and bone-chilling bosses. The action game also introduces a new dragon upgrade system, giving players the freedom to increase the power and variety of attacks to their liking.
The Legend of Spyro: A New Beginning is currently available at retail stores nationwide for the PlayStation 2 system, Xbox and Nintendo GameCube, Game Boy Advance and Nintendo.
Bethesda Softworks announces FPS Rogue Warrior !
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Bethesda Softworks®, a ZeniMax Media company, today announced its plans to publish Rogue Warrior™, an authentic, tactical first-person shooter based on the best-selling book series by Richard (Dick) Marcinko, former U.S. Navy SEAL and founder of both SEAL Team Six and Red Cell.
Rogue Warrior is being developed for the Xbox 360™ videogame and entertainment system from Microsoft, the PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system, and Windows by Zombie Studios in conjunction with Bethesda Softworks. Rogue Warrior is scheduled for a fall 2007 release.
“We are very excited to be working on Rogue Warrior, which allows us the chance to bring Bethesda’s creative vision and development expertise to this brand,” said Vlatko Andonov, president of Bethesda Softworks. “This game marks our return to shooters since our highly successful Terminator series, and we hope to offer fans a true next-generation gameplay experience.”
Rogue Warrior is a story-driven shooter that provides team-based tactical combat set in massive, contiguous levels using Unreal 3 streaming technology. Central to the game’s single and multiplayer experience is the idea of a freeform battlefield, where players are given the freedom to choose how to complete a given objective, allowing for creativity and surprises, rather than heavily scripted events and tightly contained spaces traditionally used in this genre.
An advanced AI system allows NPCs to react and fight realistically, see and hear others, and respond as a team. Rogue Warrior offers a new take on the multiplayer experience, with 10 gameplay modes and a system whereby maps are created using tiles that are selected by each team. Rogue Warrior’s tiling system allows users to experience over 200 maps in both day and nighttime settings. In addition, the campaign features solo and on-the-fly cooperative play for up to four players, where anyone can join or leave an existing campaign game at any time without having to go to menus or save progress.
“Rogue Warrior is the game we’ve been waiting to make for years,” said Mark Long, lead producer at Zombie Studios. “We’re using terrific technology in a way that’s different from other games - we have a unique HUD and control system for your teammates, on-the-fly co-op play, and we’ve really focused our efforts on making multiplayer more fun and challenging by giving you lots of modes and hundreds of maps you can see and play. We’re thrilled to be working with Bethesda on this new initiative using a brand we know and love.”
In Rogue Warrior, you play Dick Marcinko, leader of an elite SEAL unit trapped behind enemy lines in North Korea on a covert mission to assess the threat posed by North Korea’s nuclear arsenal. When war breaks out between North and South Korea, you must try to lead your team back into South Korea while greatly outnumbered and with no support and limited resupply. Your journey will take you through a variety of never-before-seen environments inside of North Korea, including submarine pens, shipbreaker yards, prison camps, and more.
Nyko Ships The Charge Station 360 And Power Kit 360
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Thursday, October 26 2006 @ 16:21 CET]
Nyko Technologies® has shipped the Charge StationTM 360 and the Power KitTM 360 both for use with Xbox 360 wireless controllers. Each product provides a different solution for the gamer that needs additional power for extended, uninterrupted play time. Xbox 360 fans can find Nyko’s new charging solutions at retailers nationwide.
Nyko’s Charge Station 360 consists of a dual-port battery charging cradle and two rechargeable battery packs. The batteries can be simultaneously charged in the cradle, allowing 360 users to switch out a drained wireless controller battery when needed. The Charge Station 360 plugs directly to a power outlet with no USB port required. Also, each battery pack provides players with up to 25 hours of additional playtime for each controller; both packs can be completely charged in four hours. The design of the Charge Station 360 complements the look and feel of the Xbox 360.
Nyko’s Power Kit 360 consists of a high quality NiMH rechargeable battery pack and a charging cable for simultaneous charging while playing. Users can plug the battery pack into the Xbox 360’s USB port using the charging cable and play wirelessly once the battery has sufficient power. Additionally, the battery pack boasts up to 25 hours of play per charge, while the charging cable is longer than competing products.
“There is nothing more annoying that having your controller die in the middle of an important game – the Charge Station 360 and Power Kit 360 gives gamers easy and affordable ways to last through continuous hours of gameplay”, said Chris Arbogast, Marketing Manager, Nyko Technologies.
More funky news on Bliss Island
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Bliss Island is funky, frantic and fiendishly compulsive game of skill featuring a menagerie of competitive creatures that are as bizarre as they are cute and fluffy. Using just the analogue stick and an action button, players will juggle, race, attack, defend and direct the critters through a series of mini-games that share this uniquely intuitive control system.
Bliss Island’s star inhabitant is Hoshi the Zwooph, one of nature’s Good Guys. In fact, he’s an environmental hero. With his ability to project precision puffs of air from his trunk, our small blue ball of fluff toils all week bringing beautiful white clouds to the Island until Friday comes and Hoshi gets a day off.
In Bliss Island, the game, it is Hoshi’s day off and that means it’s time for fun and games as he competes in a series of frantic events all over the Island. Players get to join Hoshi and his friends in using their brilliant blowing ability through the games, which include bashing singing cave slugs, feeding ravenous Jigoka monsters and destroying waves of evil advancing bricks (it’s a weird place).
The PSP system edition of Bliss Island is the evolution of the casual PC game created by Pompom Software (Space Tripper, Mutant Storm). On the PSP system, Bliss Island is a much faster and skilful game than its PC counterpart and adds wireless multiplayer gaming into the mix. There are four mini-games delivering two-player action over the PSP system’s wireless connection and, with two Zwoophs batting it out on screen at the same time, this is Bliss Island at its most chaotic.
In Fluffy Football, it's football with two Zwoophs on the pitch. The first to three goals is the winner but the pitch isn't in the best condition so players will need to dribble around boulders and avoid the scuttling crabs. Next, Brick Invaders sees a Red Zwooph versus Blue Zwhooph in a race to bash bricks to smithereens. Red bricks for the Red Zwooph and blue ones for the other. Players rack up points by brick bashing but lose out if they smash the wrong colour.
It’s a race to find the hidden fruit in Forest Frenzy. Players battle against their rival as they jump upwards through the forest and the first to find and gobble up five pieces of fruit wins. Finally, Hoshi’s pet bumblebee stars in Bee Racer, a race through obstacle course gates against a rival.
Bliss Island will launch as a burst of tropical gaming sunshine this December for the PSP system
SpirOps AI Powers Splinter Cell DA Multiplayer Mode
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Thursday, October 26 2006 @ 16:18 CET]
SpirOps today announced that Ubisoft uses SpirOps AI to bring opponents to life in the multiplayer version of the recently released video game Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell Double Agent™.
SpirOps AI helps game developers bestow their virtual characters with realistic behavior, thanks to a new approach to Artificial Intelligence (AI), called Drive Oriented™. SpirOps AI allows virtual characters to learn independently how to live better and longer in their virtual world; adapting with evolutions in their virtual world and with the players’ actions.
With Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell Double Agent™, for the very first time the Tom Clancy’s Splinter Cell saga features computer controlled opponents (bots) for the multi-player version. The Spy versus Mercenaries mode will allow players to face off with other players or with vicious mercenary bots powered by SpirOps AI.
“The choice of the Artificial Intelligence technology was critical,” explains Olivier Saillant, Lead Programmer for Ubisoft’s Annecy Studio. “Bots had to be a realistic alternative to human players. Weneeded an AI solution that could handle various human behaviors while letting us keep control overthe game. SpirOps AI, thanks to its Drive Oriented layer approach, tot ally fit this need.”
“We are very proud to have been chosen by Ubisoft to bring to life the computer controlled opponents for the multiplayer version,” said Axel Buendia, CEO for SpirOps. “Artificial Intelligence is one of the major steps forward in next generation gaming and together, SpirOps AI and Ubisoft are bringing life to games.”
Interview online from The Mark !
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Wednesday, October 25 2006 @ 17:20 CET]
We have just posted our interview with Andrzej Wilewski and Jacek Matuszewski, manager/lead programmer and Q&A manager of Jowood's upcoming War Terror FPS called "The Mark".
You can read the full interview right here if you're into War terrorism.
Rainbow Six Vegas Xbox 360 demo available
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Ubisoft has released the long awaited and highly anticipated demo of the new "Tom Clancy Rainbow Six Vegas".
The game is still sheduled for a Mid November release on Xbox 360 but if your 360's HDD can carry +350 MB you better download this fantastic demo!
Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3 available on Xbox Live! Marketplace
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That's right! The trial game and full unlockable game of Midway's classic beat 'em-up game "Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3" is available on Xbox Live! Marketplace.
Any of you who played this game way back on the older consoles will be pleased that Midway also included HD, multiplayer and of course Xbox Live!
Hooray for retro!
New Patch for El Matador
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Wednesday, October 25 2006 @ 15:42 CET]
The first patch for El Matador has been released today. The Patch version 1.1 is for download at the following location:
Download : http://www.elmatador.net/downloads/El_Matador_Patch_1.1.zip.
__________________________________
The patch is applicable to all versions, except for the German version. It addresses the following issues:
- Added widescreen displays support
- Added refresh rate selection to options dialog
- Added some performance optimizations
- Added antialiasing quality selection to options dialog
- Fixed WindowBlinds incompatibility issue
- Fixed NVidia OpenAL performance issue
- Fixed occasional visibility culling artifacts (does not apply if using saved games from non-patched version)
- Fixed task switching
- Fixed task switching sound issues
- Fixed task switching + dual monitor cursor clipping issues
- Fixed occasional camera shake problem after loading of saved game
- Fixed 'disconnected camera' issue
- Fixed Win2K DirectInput problem
- Fixed FOV issues
- Fixed music volume option saving restoring
- Fixed minor timer precision issues
- Fixed UI rendering vs HDR bloom issues
- Fixed input system smoothness issues
* Fixed cutscene skip issue in Jungle2 mission
Ubisoft To Publish Star Trek
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Today Ubisoft, one of the world’s largest video game publishers announced it has entered an agreement with Bethesda Softworks to publish Star Trek: Legacy on the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and Games for Windows, Star Trek: Tactical Assault on Nintendo DS and Sony PlayStation Portable, and Star Trek: Encounters for the PlayStation2 computer entertainment system.
All three titles are scheduled for a European launch in December.
Star Trek: Legacy™ places you in the role of the Admiral of a task force of warships and tries your strategic and tactical skills in real-time combat featuring authentic spaceships, full damage modelling and spectacular visual effects. The storyline spans the entire Star Trek universe, including the Original Series, STAR TREK: The Next Generation®, STAR TREK:Deep Space Nine®, STAR TREK: Voyager® and STAR TREK: Enterprise™ eras. Taking advantage of next-generation consoles, Star Trek: Legacy features dynamic three-dimensional battlefields with graphically stunning space environments and full multiplayer support. Star Trek: Legacy is being developed by Mad Doc Software, creators of the highly successful and critically acclaimed Star Trek Armada II.
Star Trek: Tactical Assault™ features real-time spaceship combat from the universe of Star Trek: the Original Series shows and films. With a wide array of authentic STAR TREK races, ships, and weaponry, you can engage in single-player battle through either the Federation or Klingon campaigns or in head-to-head wireless multiplayer combat. Star Trek: Tactical Assault is being developed by Quicksilver Software, creators of the highly popular Star Trek: Starfleet Command.
STAR TREK®: Encounters is a shoot ‘em-up arcade style space combat game featuring ships, characters, and weapons from the 40-year history of STAR TREK. Take command of your starship and blast through the universe, defending your vessel and demolishing your opponents’ in fast paced-action battles. STAR TREK: Encounters is being developed by Scotland-based, 4J Studios.
UFO: AFTERLIGHT Release Date Announcement
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UFO: Afterlight is the third game in the successful UFO strategy series from developers ALTAR GAMES, published by CENEGA PUBLISHING.
Building on the gameplay, tactics and storyline established in UFO: Aftermath and, more recently, UFO: Aftershock, the forthcoming UFO: Afterlight introduces an important collection of new features whilst developing upon its proven qualities.
As in the UFO prequels, UFO: Afterlight is a mixture of squad based tactical action and global strategy. The player takes a commanding role, controlling the actions of elite ground troops, as well as the general directing, resource collecting and overall expansion of the home base.
While retaining the basic game mechanics that stay true to those of UFO: Aftershock, there are many additions and improvements in both the strategic and tactical elements of UFO: Afterlight. The action takes place on the planet Mars, bringing with it new threats and enemies. There is a wide scope for researching extensive technologies, manufacturing advanced weapons, and even changing planet conditions. All of this, plus smart scripting, a fresh graphical look and feel, a strong focus on RPG, and a deeper insight to the evolving storyline makes the game a unique challenge in mankind’s battle for survival.
Releasing through Ascaron Entertainment in the UK, UFO: Afterlight (PC DVD-ROM) is due to hit retail shelves on 23rd February 2007.
Cooking on your Nintendo DS ?
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Publisher 505 Games today dons its chef’s hat and jaunty pinny to proudly announce the European release of Cooking Mama, the innovative cooking simulation that fans have already been wildly salivating over since its hugely successful debut in Japan and America.
Releasing in December on Nintendo DS, Cooking Mama puts the player in the role of superstar chef in training. Under Mama’s careful tuition and scrutiny, players will utilise the full functionality of Nintendo’s handheld system in order to prepare and create over seventy distinct and delicious dishes. The menu includes simple snacks such as fried eggs, to full cordon bleu-style culinary masterpieces.
Dishes are created by using the DS stylus as your all-in-one multipurpose kitchen tool. With it, players can chop, slice, pan fry, knead, grate, mash, tenderise, mix, peel, carve, roll and much more besides. Once the dish is ready, the stylus can be used to add finishing touches to the presentation at table before the dish is greedily consumed by Mama’s demanding customers. Blowing on the in-built DS microphone will cool a hot dish down and by combining existing recipes, players can create a vast menu fit for a banquet.
Cooking Mama’s ingredients include a variety of gameplay modes, including over 200 mini-games and a practice mode where you decide what to cook, how long to cook it for and how to present it. But remember, Mama is always by your side to offer friendly advice and a kind word if you singe the sausages or bungle the bean dip. Playing in the main game enables players to earn bronze, silver and gold awards for their efforts based on the quality of their cooking and recipes can even be shared with up to four other people via DS Wi-Fi link up.
Cooking Mama is an original and fun title that boasts immediate ‘pick up and play’ action, to ensure that players of any age or skill level will be able to enjoy its wholesome wholemeal gameplay.
Cooking Mama, developed by Taito and published in Europe by 505 Games, releases on December 8th on Nintendo DS. A Nintendo Wii version, Cooking Mama: Cooking with International Friends, is planned for 2007.
Rising Star Games Confirms Release Date For Contact
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Rising Star Games has confirmed that it will release Contact, its critically acclaimed RPG for the Nintendo DS, in February 2007.
Martin Defries, COO, Rising Star Games said: “Contact is an amazing title for the DS and we’re hopeful that the extra stock we’ll have available will address the demand for such a unique game. My advice to gamers? Save your money and make contact with Contact just after Christmas.”
Contact takes the Role Playing Game genre in an entirely new direction, combining cutting-edge real-time RPG action with an involving and surprising plot. Adding in a helping of enigmatic characterisation and startling self-awareness, Contact fulfils a unique role on a similarly unique platform whilst utilising all that the Nintendo DS has to offer.
Full and intuitive touchscreen controls blend with extensive equipment and character progression features whilst both screens are used throughout – one for the action and one to provide a constant link with the game’s enigmatic prime mover, the ever-present Professor. With a leisurely Wi-Fi island dedicated to multiplayer adventuring rounding off the exhaustive list of features, Contact provides a role-playing package that few can match.
Xbox 360 Enters the Twilight Zone with Talismoon
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Talismoon are delighted to announce the release of four new entry level customization kits for the Xbox ™ 360. Not only are Talismoon’s latest innovations of low cost, but they will certainly give any Xbox™ 360 a completely new and redefined sense of style and a barrage of kudos along the way. It’s about time the Xbox™ entered the twilight zone and Talismoon gives owners of Microsoft’s console an overwhelmingly good look at all that power under the hood!
XRAY Window Kit – The gateway to professional 360 tuning. A delightfully moulded clear acrylic one piece window complete with sixteen high density clips which quickly and firmly attach to the case of the Xbox™ 360. After installation, voila! You will be able to see the parts that make the machine tick such as the disc drive and associated components. Comes complete with fully illustrated instructions and a branded micro fibre polishing cloth which will help preserve the clear look of the window, so much so in fact you will forget it’s there!
Twilight Flow – An ideal accompaniment to the Talismoon XRAY window kit. An easy ‘clip and play’ clear replacement fan duct for the stock opaque fan duct which features vibrant and soothing blue lights for a stellar look on the console.
Crystal Flow – Another ideal accompaniment to the Talismoon XRAY window kit. An easy ‘clip and play’ clear replacement fan duct for the dull stock opaque fan duct which will become totally clear for a greater view of the internals.
Chrome Flow – Another ideal accompaniment to the Talismoon XRAY window kit. An easy ‘clip and play’ clear replacement fan duct for the dull stock opaque fan duct. The chrome flow as the name suggests sports an incredibly reflective chrome finish which is so shiny, you could even see your face in it!
Taismoon’s XRAY window kit, Twilight Flow, Crystal Flow and Chrome Flow are now shipping and are priced at $9.95, $11.95, $9.95 and $9.95 respectively.
Tenchu: Dark Secret launches inNovember
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Strike down your enemies from the shadow as you don your dark clothing and become one with the night. Tenchu: Dark Secret puts you in the role of a ninja as you battle to quell an uprising against your clan and guard the life of the princess. Tenchu: Dark Secret sneaks across Europe onto the Nintendo DS on 24th November 2006.
Taking place after the events of Tenchu: Birth of the Stealth Assassins - An evil clan of ninjas, led by the mysterious Kurokaze, have attacked your clan princess Shizuhime and have placed a curse upon her. Rikimaru and Ayame – two of the best ninja’s from the Azuma Shinobi Ryu clan are dispatched to find these dark ninjas, uncover their sinister plot and find a way to cure the princess.
Tenchu: Dark Secret is an action game with a difference, disposing of the normal combat systems in favour of discretion and tactics. This game will very quickly separate the reckless from the shrewd, with those rushing headlong into danger being cut down very quickly by the force of the enemy. Tenchu is a stealth game where players must keep to the shadows and dispatch their foes as quickly and quietly as possible. Only by watching the patterns of enemy guards and anticipating the perfect opportunity to strike will you truly learn the way of the ninja.
Players are enabled to see exactly where their opponent’s are at all times due to the twin screens of the Nintendo DS. The top screen portrays in-game action from a bird’s eye perspective, as well as a visibility meter which lets players see how likely they are to be spotted. The bottom screen adds to this by not only displaying a map of the immediate area, but also the location of all enemies within that area and the direction in which they are facing. Sneaking up behind one for a silent kill has never been easier. Tenchu: Dark Secret features around 40 levels (and sub-levels) with bite sized play, making it ideal for the Nintendo DS handheld. Within these levels players can collect items which can be used to build new traps
As well as dispatching enemies up close and personal, Tenchu: Dark Secret allows ninjas to set booby traps, which can vanquish enemies that unwittingly stumble across them. Players can also find items during the course of the game, which can be combined using the game’s Ninja Gear menu to make all manner of ingenious and deadly traps. Villagers rescued during the game will unlock new recipes allowing more elaborate items to be created. Tenchu: Dark Secret also utilises the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection service to allow Ninja Gear, such as shuriken’s or new bamboo trap’s to be sold or bought not only from friends, but also from any other owner of the game online at that time.
Fancy yourself as a master of stealth? Tenchu: Dark Secret includes a LAN multiplayer mode in which you can put your skills to the test. Players can opt to battle to the death in Annihilator mode, capture the flag in Glutton mode or take part in a tense game of hide and seek in Sneak mode with up to four other players.
Tenchu: Dark Secret emerges from the shadows on 24th November 2006 as it launches across Europe on the Nintendo DS for around £30.
World of Warcraft: The Burning Crusade delayed !
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Blizzard Entertainment today announced that the release date for World of Warcraft: The Burning Crusade, the highly anticipated expansion for World of Warcraft, will be in January 2007.
By adding a few extra weeks to the development cycle beyond its original target date, Blizzard will be able to extend the closed beta test and further refine the new content that will ship with the game.
“We appreciate the enthusiasm surrounding World of Warcraft: The Burning Crusade, and we’re excited about putting the finishing touches on all of the new content,” said Mike Morhaime, president and cofounder of Blizzard Entertainment. “We feel confident that the extra time spent polishing the game will result in the high-quality experience that our players expect and deserve.”
Blizzard began the closed-beta phase of testing on World of Warcraft: The Burning Crusade earlier this month. The January 2007 release window will allow extra time for current beta testers to participate in the final stages of development and continue providing valuable feedback.
Further information on specific worldwide release dates, pricing, and other details will be announced in the near future.
PC Puzzle Game Cubis 2 ships
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Premium casual game developer and publisher MumboJumbo today announced that Cubis 2, the sequel to the original hit puzzle game Cubis and previously only available online, is now shipping to the retail channel for the PC.
“Cubis 2 delivers the next dimension of classic 3D-esque matching games,” said Mark Cottam, MumboJumbo’s CEO. “It is highly rated by users and has all the great qualities we look for in a top-notch casual game.”
Developed by Fresh Games and published by MumboJumbo, the highly addictive Cubis 2 has players matching colored cubes vertically and horizontally on a grid against the clock. Cubis 2 introduces three new puzzle twists with over 300 action-packed levels for hours of mind-bending fun. And three beautifully rendered themes with ambient animations also give Cubis 2 an exciting new look and feel.
“In making Cubis 2 available through traditional retail channels we can reach folks that don’t frequent the Internet. Plus all those Cubis fans out there will have a new way to give the gift of Cubis to their friends this holiday season,” commented Stephan Smith, President of Fresh Games.
Limited Edition Pro Evolution Soccer 6 Offer In Europe with Xbox 360
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Xbox today announced a great-value retail offer that sees Xbox 360, the next-generation video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, and Pro Evolution Soccer 6 from Konami Digital Entertainment GmbH available together this Christmas in Europe for the estimated retail price of £299.99.
The limited-edition Xbox 360/Pro Evolution Soccer 6 offer will be available in the UK on the 27th October, the same day Pro Evolution Soccer 6 for Xbox 360 hits retail. Xbox 360 is the only place European gamers can enjoy the next-generation edition of Pro Evolution Soccer 6.
“Xbox 360 is the home of next-gen football gaming in Europe, and we’re really excited to be working with Konami to bring this great-value retail offer to European gamers this Christmas,” said Richard Teversham, Director of Marketing and Platform, Xbox EMEA. “Bringing Pro Evolution Soccer 6 together with the console at a great price is a natural fit for us and will be putting smiles on the faces of lots of football fans in Europe this Christmas.”
“The power of Xbox 360 takes our critically-acclaimed franchise to new heights of realism, playability, and fun, and we’re happy to be working with Xbox to bring this great offer to retail in Europe,” said Martin Schneider, European Marketing Director at Konami Digital Entertainment GmbH. “We know true football fans will enjoy the new experiences that Pro Evolution Soccer 6 on Xbox 360 will offer.”
The Xbox 360/Pro Evolution Soccer 6 retail offer includes:
· Xbox 360 Console
· Pro Evolution Soccer 6
· Xbox 360 Wireless Controller
· Xbox 360 20GB Hard Drive
· Xbox Live Gold 30-day trial membership
· Xbox 360 Headset
· Xbox 360 Component HD AV Cable with SCART adapter
· Xbox 360 Ethernet Cable
Tony Hawk's Project 8 will use the PS3 SIXAXIS controller
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Friday, October 20 2006 @ 16:45 CET]
Neversoft is taking interactivity to all new heights in the upcoming Tony Hawk’s Project 8™ video game for the PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system.
By leveraging the next gen console’s SIXAXIS™ wireless controller, players will be able to balance and steer skaters through every rail grind, manual, revert, ollie and combo, as well as control slow motion nail the trick moves as they compete to be a part of Tony Hawk’s elite project 8 team.
The game, which ships to retail outlets nationwide timed to the launch of the highly anticipated PLAYSTATION 3 system, has been rated “T” (Teen) by the ESRB and carries a suggested retail price of $59.99.
Tony Hawk’s Project 8 features the likeness and skating styles of more than 11 world class athletes. By tilting and twisting the SIXAXIS™ wireless controller, gamers will have the power in their hands to control each skater’s actions, which were captured for the game using three-dimensional body and face scanning technology, as well as motion capture data.
PS3 goes online with its own network services
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In addition to a wide array of software titles, SCEA today also unveiled the online and network services provided through PS3, which will offer distinctive benefits to consumers and developers alike.
Consumers will be able to enjoy a wide array of PS3 network capabilities, with basic features offered absolutely free from day one. Developers will benefit from the open platform policy of SCEA, which will allow them more freedom and creativity in the development of their games and online/network services. The end result will be more than just a place to play games, but a rich online environment with strong community aspects as distinctive as the titles themselves.
The entry way into PLAYSTATION Network is XMB™ (Xross Media Bar), which is the navigation system that enables a complete suite of entertainment experiences in three key areas: gaming; network and web connectivity; and other entertainment contents such as movies and music. The intuitive XMB interface, which is already featured on more than 20 million PSP® (PlayStation® Portable) shipped worldwide, allows PS3 users to experience multiplayer games across the network; communicate with other players via chat, voice or video; browse the web; download gaming content; store/view pictures and video; download and listen to music; and shop online.
Through the online PLAYSTATION® Store, consumers can find such items as game demos, game-related content and downloadable casual games, including titles developed by Sony Computer Entertainment World Wide Studios exclusively for download and play only on PS3, such as Blast Factor. Once users create a unique, secure PlayStation profile, they cannot only communicate with other PS3 users, they can also utilize an electronic wallet to purchase content in the PLAYSTATION Store. Downloadable first party games will cost less than $15 at launch. More content will be added on a regular basis.
Sony announce Line Up for US PS3 titles
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Sony Computer Entertainment America (SCEA) today announced its debut game titles and unveiled the online strategy for its highly anticipated PLAYSTATION®3 (PS3™) system, the company’s groundbreaking computer entertainment system which will be available in North America on November 17, 2006.
More than 20 first- and third-party PS3 titles will be available through the holidays, resulting in the most robust software line-up ever offered by a new console at launch. The launch catalog encompasses the most popular game genres, featuring industry leading franchises as well as new intellectual properties to be released exclusively on PS3, with most titles expected to retail under $60.
“Our line-up of PS3 games that will be available through the holidays is unprecedented in terms of volume, variety and innovation, surpassing any previous competitive launch catalog and even our own original offerings for other PlayStation® platforms,” said Kaz Hirai, President and CEO of Sony Computer Entertainment America. “We are pioneering a new era of true next-generation gaming through such titles as Resistance: Fall of Man, a visually arresting game that takes advantage of the large storage capacity and exceptional visual clarity offered by Blu-ray Disc™ (BD); and NBA 07, running at full 1080p for the highest resolution image possible, creating hyper-realistic characters and gameplay never seen before.”
The List of Launch Window Titles Includes:
SCEA Launch Titles
Resistance: Fall of Man™
NBA 07
Genji: Days of the Blade™
Third Party Publisher Titles*
Blazing Angels™ Squadrons of WWII - Ubisoft
Call of Duty®3 - Activision
EA Sports™ Fight Night Round 3 - Electronic Arts
The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion - Bethesda Softworks
F.E.A.R.™ - Vivendi Universal Games
Full Auto™2: Battlelines - Sega
Madden NFL™ 07 - Electronic Arts
MARVEL™:ULTIMATE ALLIANCE™ - Activision
Mobile Suit Gundam®: CROSSFIRE™ - NAMCO BANDAI Games
NBA 2K7 - 2K Sports
Need For Speed™ Carbon - Electronic Arts
NHL® 2K7 - 2K Sports
RIDGE RACER® 7 - NAMCO BANDAI Games
Sonic the Hedgehog - Sega
Tiger Woods PGA Tour® 07 - Electronic Arts
Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six® Vegas - Ubisoft
Tony Hawk’s Project 8™ - Activision
Untold Legends™ Dark Kingdom™ - Sony Online Entertainment
Sony delivers new Media Manager for PSP
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Sony Computer Entertainment America today announced the availability of Media Manager for PSP software for PCs that facilitates the transfer of multimedia content to a PSP system.
Building on the initial version of the software released last November, the updated Media Manager offers a new easy-to-use interface and expanded options for converting video, music, and photos; subscribing to podcasts; and backing-up game saves. Among the exciting new features, users can now transfer home videos from DVDs, as well as documents and Internet browser bookmarks from PCs, onto their PSP system.
Developed by Sony Media Software, Media Manager is available for download via http://us.playstation.com/mediamanager for $16.99; a boxed version of the software, which includes a 6-foot USB cable, is also available for $24.99.
“The PSP system delivers an unmatched experience for portable entertainment, and the new Media Manager makes transferring your entertainment content as simple as a few clicks of the mouse,” said John Koller, Senior Marketing Manager, PSP, at SCEA. “We know that many of the 5 million PSP owners that are out there use their systems for more than just gaming, and this software enables you to easily and quickly load those videos, music, photos and more onto your Memory Stick Duo™.”
The new Media Manager uses an intuitive dual-paned interface, featuring familiar icons from the PSP system’s XMB™ (Xross Media Bar) and the ease of drag-and-drop transfers. A status bar indicates available space on Memory Stick Duo media.
Video conversion and playback, among the most popular uses of the PSP system due to its vibrant LCD widescreen, is streamlined with Media Manager, ensuring that content is in the proper format for viewing on the device. Also, PSP owners can now transfer home videos on DVD or footage from DVD camcorders onto their system.
Media Manager’s support for audio files is music to a PSP owner’s ears. In addition to support for multiple file formats, the software finds audio files on your PC for simplified transfer and playback and extracts songs from your personal CDs with just one click of the mouse. For increased control, users can determine the compression level of audio files as well as export playlists.
To address the growth in popularity of podcasts, or multimedia files delivered via Really Simple Syndication (RSS) feeds, Media Manager allows users to setup subscriptions. A built-in RSS directory includes popular feeds ranging from radio programs to pop culture videos. Also, the software now offers multiple feed downloads and enhanced feed support including parental ratings.
Snoopy vs. The Red Baron from Namco Flies To Gold
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Prepare for take off! Leading video games publisher and developer NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc. today announced that Snoopy vs. The Red Baron has gone gold and is scheduled to ship on October 24 for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, PC and the PSP system.
Snoopy vs. The Red Baron takes fun and adventure to new heights. Set in a world only he could dream up, Snoopy once again imagines himself as the virtuoso flying ace on a gallant quest to defend the skies from the evil Red Baron. Soaring through the clouds in Snoopy’s World War I bi-plane, the Sopwith Camel, players find themselves engaged in sky-high dogfights, no-holds-barred air races and daring missions behind enemy lines!
“Bringing the popular comic strip to life, Snoopy vs. The Red Baron delivers the Peanuts universe to fans and gamers alike,” said John Whitmore, Director of Internal and External Development at NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc. “The timeless classic features appearances from 12 beloved characters, a variety of comical weapons and gadgets, and heart-pounding action. Snoopy vs. The Red Baron is sure to be an enjoyable experience that players of all ages can share.”
Guide Snoopy as he battles side-by-side with his closest friend and confidant Woodstock, as well as the other Peanuts characters, and powers up on as much root beer as he can lay his paws on. Fly your way through six vividly rendered worlds and battle in over 20 missions collecting clues in an attempt to foil the plans of the villainous Red Baron!
New DS titles coming from Nintendo!
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This Christmas gamers will be filled with seasonal cheer by a selection of exciting first party games for the Nintendo DS. Owners of the Nintendo DS and Nintendo DS Lite will be able to keep themselves busy over the winter months with games including Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Blue Rescue Team, Yoshi’s Island DS and Tenchu Dark Secret.
This year Nintendo DS and Nintendo DS Lite owners will also be able to pass time surfing the internet with the Nintendo DS Browser .
Never know what to do with all those gift vouchers you get for Christmas? Nintendo has the answer with a selection of top games to look forward to at the start of 2007 including Star Fox Command, Diddy Kong Racing DS, Mario Slam Basketball and Pokémon Ranger.
Nintendo DS Hardware / Software
Release Date Q4 2006/ Q1 2007
Nintendo DS Browser - 6 Oct 2006
Sudoku Master - 27 Oct 2006
Nintendo DS Lite Pink Edition - 27 October 2006
Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Blue Rescue Team - 10 Nov 2006
Tenchu Dark Secret - 24th Nov 2006
Yoshi’s Island DS - 1st Dec 2006
Star Fox Command - 26th Jan 2007
Actionloop - 26th Jan 2007
Harvest Moon DS (Rising Star Games/Nintendo) - Q1 2007
Mario Slam Basketball - Q1 2007
Magical Starsign (tentative name) - Q1 2007
Diddy Kong Racing DS - Q1 2007
Mario vs Donkey Kong 2: March of the Minis - Q1 2007
Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney Justice For All (Capcom) - Q1 2007
Pokémon Ranger - Q1 2007
Children of Mana (Square-Enix) - Q1 2007
POSTAL III confirmed for Xbox 360 and PC !!
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Almost a decade after the release of POSTAL, Running With Scissors (RWS), the creators behind the dark comedic video game franchise has announced development of POSTAL III, the first game in the long-running series aimed at both the computer and videogame console markets.
Currently in development for the Xbox 360 and PC systems, POSTAL III will employ the Source engine (the same technology Valve® created to drive Half-Life® 2) to deliver a new and advanced technical level of social satire and politically incorrect virtual violence.
"We started this series back in 1997," recalled RWS CEO Vince Desi, "and while the franchise has grown into an international computer game sensation during that time, it has always been our goal to bring it to the videogame console marketplace. For many years I’ve been asked by gamers around the world when POSTAL will appear on console. I’m so proud to be able to answer our fans' prayers."
POSTAL III will include motion-captured performances by a wide array of celebrities – from film stars to Playboy Playmates – as well as a storyline that offers gamers vast latitude in terms of their behavior. "We've always maintained since publishing the original POSTAL that the game is only as violent as the player wants it to be and we're committed to expanding this unique form of gameplay in this next addition to the ongoing storyline," Desi vowed.
Andrew Belkin, Producer for Akella stated “We here at Akella are big fans of the POSTAL series and so being involved in production of POSTAL III is both great fun and an honor for us. In cooperation with RWS talent I believe POSTAL III will be the sickest and craziest game ever! Definitely, this is the first project of such scale and a major step forward for our company”
The player will once again be cast as the nameless "Postal Dude," the star of all previous versions of the game, including POSTAL 2: Share The Pain and POSTAL 2: Apocalypse Weekend. POSTAL III is scheduled for release some time in 2008.
Joytech's Next Generation of Control for Xbox 360
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JOYTECH Europe Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. and leading designer and manufacturer of third party video game accessories, announced today the Control Center 540C, designed for the Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system from Microsoft.
A unique concept in console accessories, the Control Center 540C represents the latest advance in JOYTECH’s award winning* ‘Control Center’ product line, and will prove invaluable for the connection of next generation game consoles or owners of complex installations.
Perfectly complementing the design and appearance of the Xbox 360™, the Control Center 540C allows users to connect their console and up to five additional AV sources to just one input on their TV, display and sound system.
Equipped with a proprietary connection to accommodate Xbox 360™, the Control Center 540C receives all relevant visual and audio information sent from the console, through a single Connector Cable that comes included. Through this Connector Cable, standard definition S-video, composite video and stereo audio is carried, alongside standard and high definition component video and digital optical audio.
Once the Xbox 360™ is connected to the Control Center 540C, users have access to an additional four HDTV ready component video inputs, five composite video and stereo audio inputs, five S-video inputs and four digital optical inputs alongside a corresponding matched output for each input connection, allowing for a broad and extensive range of equipment to be permanently connected to just a single input on the users TV, display or sound system. Additionally, the Control Center 540C features a six port Ethernet LAN Hub, providing a reliable connection to Xbox Live® and other network devices.
The front Programmable Display automatically adjusts to vertical or horizontal orientation, allowing users to position the Control Center 540C alongside their Xbox 360™ console in the manner they desire. Users are even invited to customize each input name, and with the included Remote Control, navigating each input proves no more complex than touching a button. Furthermore, the front panel of the Control Center 540C houses an additional set of S-video, composite video and stereo audio inputs allowing quick and easy access for camcorders or game consoles.
The Control Center 540C will be available in Europe and North America from November 2006 and will retail for a suggested price of £89.99 and $129.99 respectively.
Tony Hawk's Project 8 Demo To Debut On Xbox Live Marketplace
[Category :
The competition to become a member of Tony Hawk’s elite skate team starts on your Xbox 360™ with the free Tony Hawk’s Project 8 demo available on Xbox Live® Marketplace Oct. 20.
Gamers can download the demo and hit the Concrete Park where they will experience some of the latest innovations in the #1 best selling action sports franchise from Activision, Inc., including “Nail the Trick,” which gives players precision control over how their skater moves their feet to flip the skateboard; “Filmer” goals that require players to follow a cameraman and complete tricks that he calls out; and “Spot Challenges” which are ambient goals that players can access throughout the game world and complete as they choose.
Tony Hawk’s Project 8 is being developed by Neversoft Entertainment for the Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment systems from Microsoft. The game is rated 12+ BBFC and is scheduled for release in November.
Myst hit the streets for ... PSP
[Category :
Midway Games today confirmed shipping the legendary game, Myst, on PSP across all PAL territories (excludes South Africa, Australia and New Zealand), as part of a publishing agreement between Cyan Worlds and the European arm of Midway.
The timeless adventuring masterpiece from Cyan Worlds and Hoplite Research, LLC has intrigued and delighted gamers for over a decade on home consoles and computers, but today it debuts on a handheld videogame format for the first time. The game takes advantage of the PSP’s glorious 16-million colour 16:9 screen as it catapults the player into a universe of mystery, discovery, and mind-bending puzzles.
Utterly alone and without encountering another single living soul on a mysterious island, the player sets out to explore its grandeur and unlock its secrets. A chilling tale of injustice unfolds, expanding beyond all boundaries of space and time. Quickly, though, it becomes clear every action can somehow help unfortunate individuals trapped somewhere in a parallel dimension. The Myst adventure is like no other, tantalizing with its unique combination of lavish environments, puzzles, mazes, and a sizzling underlying drama which steadily reveals itself to the player.
“We are delighted to present one of the world’s most successful game franchises to Sony’s PSP,” said Martin Spiess, Managing Director - Europe of Midway Games Limited. “The highly-anticipated handheld version of the game includes all the production values and excitement that have made this title a timeless classic."
New downloadable content for The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion
[Category :
Bethesda Softworks today announced plans to make its new Knights of the Nine content for The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion available for the Xbox 360 videogame and entertainment system from Microsoft and Windows via download and a new retail Windows product.
Knights of the Nine will be available through Xbox Live Marketplace for Xbox 360 and www.OblivionDownloads.com on November 21st.
Knights of the Nine will also be available as a Windows boxed product at retail on the 21st. The retail version of Knights of the Nine is a compilation that will include all the other Oblivion downloadable content released to date: Horse Armor, The Orrery, Wizard’s Tower, Vile Lair, Thieves Den, Mehrunes’ Razor, and Spell Tomes. Bethesda Softworks will publish and distribute Knights of the Nine at retail directly in North America and through a co-publisher arrangement with Ubisoft in Europe.
“We’re pleased to bring this new content to Xbox 360 and to Windows gamers who have been so supportive of Oblivion,” said Vlatko Andonov, president of Bethesda Softworks. “To date, the response to our new downloadable content has been terrific – it’s easily the most popular downloadable content on Xbox Live Marketplace for Xbox 360and has been very popular for Windows as well – and we think the opportunity to enjoy an entirely new faction and quests is something our fans will be eager to try.”
Knights of the Nine features an all-new faction and quests for noble characters and answers many of the questions surrounding the Ayleid ruins found throughout Oblivion. Players can join a new faction and found their own order of holy knights – leading them into battle against a sorcerer-king and his demonic minions while exploring massive dungeons and searching for legendary relics – the holy armor and weapons of the Divine Crusader.
New Patch Released For Space Empires V
[Category :
Software Publisher Strategy First Inc. is releasing patch version 1.08 today for “Space Empires V”, the newest addition to the Space Empires Series.
This patch will update the retail version of “Space Empires V” version 1.00 to version 1.08. See the history.txt file for a complete list of the changes and fixes included in the patch. This patch will not work on the Steam or Demo version of “Space Empires V”.
Download the patch today directly from Strategy First at:
http://www.strategyfirst.ca/downloads/patches/se5patch_v108.exe
Lumines Live! for Xbox Live Arcade available today !
[Category :
Xbox Live Arcade Wednesdays is making some extra noise this week. The highly anticipated music-puzzle action phenomenon, “Lumines Live!” can be yours starting today, 18th October, from Xbox Live Arcade.
The newest addition to the blockbuster franchise from Tetsuya Mizuguchi and Q Entertainment comes packed with puzzles, modes, exclusive music videos and full online multiplayer play over Xbox Live. The game even has an exclusive feature that records high score gameplay in the Time Attack Mode which can be downloaded and played back by any other player.
GAME FOCUS:
“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.
GAME FEATURES:
“Lumines Live!” for Xbox Live Arcade brings exciting new music, new video content, and 12 different skins, for hours of fun. The Xbox Live Arcade game features exclusive Xbox Live online multiplayer play, allowing you to play against your friends in head-to-head battles. For advanced players, gamers can change their music scene and purchase the Advance Pack from Xbox Live Marketplace for 22 new skins.
“Lumines Live!” includes:
- Full online multiplayer play over Xbox Live – battle your friends head-to-head
- Classic Lumines gameplay, including Challenge, Puzzle and vs. CPU modes
- All-new Skin Edit Mode allows you to re-mix the order of your unlocked skins to create a custom Lumines experience
- All-new Mission mode presents player with pre-designed Lumines puzzle scenarios
- Dynamic skins, sound effects and music optimised specifically for Lumines Live! in high-definition graphics and 5.1 channel surround audio
- Extensive downloadable content support over Xbox Live Marketplace – add new skins, puzzles, missions, artist packs and more
- Full suite of online leaderboards
- Achievements and Gamerscore
WHEN CAN I GET IT: Download “Lumines Live!” today, Wednesday, 18th October from Xbox Live Arcade
“Lumines Live!” (Q Entertainment): 1200 Microsoft Points
“Lumines Live!” Advance Pack (sold separately): 600 Microsoft Points
Rockstar Games Announces The Warriors for the PSP
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Rockstar Games is pleased to announce that The Warriors will be making its way to the PSP system. Developed by Rockstar Leeds in conjunction with Rockstar Toronto, The Warriors for the PSP system is set to hit North American and European retail shelves this holiday season.
"We set out to create a highly sophisticated portable game that delivers a visceral experience previously unseen on the PSP system," stated Sam Houser, Founder and Executive Producer of Rockstar Games. "We are looking forward to setting the definitive bar for the brawler genre on the PSP system by delivering an extremely stylish and exceptionally deep experience."
"We have worked closely with Rockstar Toronto to maintain the extremely high standards they've set for this game," said Gordon Hall, President of Rockstar Leeds. "The PSP system allows us to deliver the experience in an entirely different way, while staying very faithful to the original source material and maintaining the high standards we set for ourselves as a developer."
Based on the 1979 cult classic Paramount Pictures film, The Warriors expands the stylized cinematic journey of the film into a gritty, interactive experience set in 1970's New York City.
Football Manager 2007: PC Version Out Today !
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SEGA and Sports Interactive would like to announce that the official street date for Football Manager 2007 on PC / Mac has been brought forward to Wednesday, October 18th.
As a result of certain retail outlets ignoring the official release date of October 20th, SEGA and Sports Interactive have acted to ensure that Football Manager 2007 is available to all of our loyal fans.
"We are in the process of communicating this new date to all of our retail partners."
Collectors Edition confirmed for Europa Universalis III
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Leading PC strategy publisher and developer Paradox Interactive announced today that their next big strategy release, “Europa Universalis III”, is to be released as a “Collectors Edition”. The collectible content will only be available in a limited print run.
“The ‛Europa Universalis’ series has a strong fan base across the world and they have been very vocal in requesting something special and unique for ‛Europa Universalis III’”, said Susana Meza, Director of Marketing and PR for Paradox Interactive. “I am particularly excited about being able to offer a complete strategy guide in the Collectors Edition, something that will add real value to existing fans but perhaps even more so to new gamers”.
The “Collectors Edition” will include several exclusive assets that cannot be obtained elsewhere:
100-page 4 color strategy guide
A special Producer introduction to the game
The official “Europa Universalis III” soundtrack
Composers diary, complementing the soundtrack
Exclusive download content, including special forum bonus content
In addition, players will also find:
A 140-page 4 color manual
Sizeable poster map including all provinces
Collectible stickers
PlayDevil reviews Test Drive Unlimited for Xbox 360
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Honestly, we're addicted to the very first MOOR game for Xbox 360!
"Test Drive Unlimited" is its name and it was developed by Eden Games and published by Atari.
Next-gen graphics with massive multiplayer options and a fantastic single player experience, what do you need more?
Not convinced? Well read the full review made by Ian and we're sure you will love it!
Neverwinter Nights 2 Goes Gold
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Atari and Obsidian Entertainment today announced that the highly-anticipated Neverwinter Nights™ 2 has gone gold and is on schedule to ship to retailers in North America on October 31 and across Europe on November 3. Neverwinter Nights 2, the sequel to BioWare Corp.’s best-selling and genre-defining role-playing game, is set in the DUNGEONS & DRAGONS® Forgotten Realms® universe created by Wizards of the Coast, a subsidiary of Hasbro, Inc. (NYSE: HAS), and will transport players back to the embattled city of Neverwinter. DUNGEONS & DRAGONS is under license from the Hasbro Properties Group, the intellectual property development arm of Hasbro.
Developed by Obsidian Entertainment, Neverwinter Nights 2 features a new, extensive single-player game with deep character development and a powerful new toolset that provides players with unprecedented ability to create their own universes, quests and storylines
“Neverwinter Nights 2 has been an incredible journey to produce. We aimed from the beginning to develop a true sequel to Bioware's original Neverwinter Nights in order to continue its legacy of satisfying not only the RPG players, but the huge modding community,” said Feargus Urquhart, Obsidian Entertainment’s CEO. “Now that Neverwinter Nights 2 has gone gold, I feel we are able to say that we've done just that.”
The Neverwinter Nights franchise has sold more than two million copies worldwide, is translated into 10 languages, sold in more than 40 countries and features one of the largest and most active fan communities in all of gaming. To date, fans of the franchise, which includes Neverwinter Nights, Neverwinter Nights: Shadows of Undrentide™ and Neverwinter Nights: Hordes of the Underdark™, have created nearly 4,000 modifications to the original game using the original, award-winning Aurora Toolset. A more robust toolset will be included with the release of Neverwinter Nights 2.
Xbox Live Vision and Rainbow Six Vegas compatibility
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Today Ubisoft, one of the world’s largest video game publishers, announced that the Xbox Live Vision Camera can be used in conjunction with Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six® Vegas for the Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system from Microsoft.
Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Vegas is the fifth iteration of the multimillion-selling tactical shooter franchise and will be available on store shelves in November.
Once online, players of Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Vegas will be able to push the customization by putting his or her own face on the character using the Xbox Live Vision Camera. In just two simple steps, a head-on photo and a profile photo taken with the Vision Camera, gamers can create a custom head that looks exactly like the actual player. Once the custom head is completed, players can move on to customize their online character further by choosing weapons, clothing, camouflage and body armour.
Limited Edition Version Of Medieval II: Total War
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SEGA of America Inc. today announced that the highly-anticipated PC title Medieval II: Total War will launch on November 14, 2006, initially as a limited edition product with exclusive bonus material.
Total War fans and PC gamers who purchase the game within the first print run will be rewarded with a detailed map of the extensive game world, as well as a copy of the official Medieval II: Total War soundtrack that features original tracks by award-winning composer Jeff Van Dyke.
Winner of an Editor's Choice Award in the December issue of PC Gamer, Medieval II: Total War is the latest game in the award-winning and critically acclaimed Total War series. A follow-up to 2004's Strategy Game of the year – Rome: Total War – Medieval II: Total War is a visually stunning game that spans five centuries of the most turbulent era in Western history. Medieval II: Total War allows players to command massive armies of unprecedented scale in visceral real-time battles as well as manage sweeping empires on the turn-based campaign map.
Medieval II: Total War for the PC has an ESRB rating of "T" for "Teen" and is slated to ship on November 14, 2006 with an MSRP of $49.99.
Ubisoft announced a sixth Settlers game
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Ubisoft announced a sixth title in its award-winning series, THE SETTLERS®.
Settlers fans can look forward to revisiting the series' beloved features, alongside new and enhanced gameplay to be revealed in 2007.
Under the working title THE SETTLERS VI, the new title will combine city building, strategy, economies, groundbreaking graphics and an aquarium effect on the PC. Ubisoft’s Blue Byte studio began working on the new Settlers formula in the spring of 2005 when director Ralf Wirsing assembled a team of veteran developers who contributed to The Settlers III and IV: Heritage of Kings™ and The Settlers II: 10th Anniversary.
THE SETTLERS VI will focus on building larger and more fortified cities as well as planning and optimization in a medieval world. Attributes that are typical of The Settlers series are once again the focus of the game. Gamers create magnificent cities and inhabit them with hundreds of settlers going about their daily lives. The settlers inhabit a richly detailed world with different continents and diverse vegetation. The gaming environment is enhanced by the best graphics seen in a strategy game to date, inviting gamers to become immersed in their worlds. As the king and ruler in THE SETTLERS VI, gamers control the story of their people using a dramatic story-based campaign, enjoy the prosperity of their cities, and closely observe each individual settler as they go about their daily tasks.
"We want to appeal to fans of The Settlers series while ensuring the greatest possible accessibility to newcomers," states Odile Limpach, Managing Director of Ubisoft Germany and Austria. "Our development studio in Düsseldorf has a clear goal for THE SETTLERS VI: to produce the best The Settlers game of all time."
PlayDevil's UPDATED Game Release List
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Our famous 'European' "Game Release List" has been updated today with a massive amount of new titles!
Also included are the official launch dates for the several "Wii" games.
Check it out right here and always call up your local sofware shop to be sure they got what you want!
Soon new Multiplayer Map-Pack for Call of Juarez
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Techland announced today that a free to download Multiplayer Map-Pack for its Wild West shooter Call of Juarez will be released soon. It will feature 8 completely new maps varying in size, setting, gameplay type and maximum number of players.
The maps are almost ready now and have just entered Beta testing phase. To ensure the highest possible quality of the design of the maps Techland launches open Beta tests of the map-pack. All players with the full version of the game who would like to participate in the Beta Test should visit the official game's forum at:
http://www.coj-game.com/forum/viewtopic.php?p=4968#4968
for more info on how to register and sign up for the tests.
Phantasy Star Universe MP trail beta demo for 360
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SEGA® Europe, Ltd. and SEGA® of America, Inc. today announced the Phantasy Star Universe™ multiplayer open beta for the Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system from Microsoft will be available for free download on Xbox Live© Marketplace starting on today.
Gamers worldwide will be able to play the newest addition to the epic sci-fi Phantasy Star™ series during a free-trial beta download period that will run for until October 18th, 2006. The beta will be available for download until Sunday 15th Oct. Phantasy Star Universe™ offers the best of both worlds through an exciting action-packed RPG single-player story mode and a rich online multiplayer experience. The Xbox 360™ open beta program gives players a chance to preview online multiplayer mode and is open to all Xbox Live© Gold level account members.
Additionally, SEGA announced that the GUARDIANS License will be available for purchase on November 24th, 2006 for Xbox 360™, PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, and PC online users. The GUARDIANS License enriches the single-player story mode by enabling gamers to meet other players, strike up alliances, and embark on a huge variety of online quests within the Phantasy Star Universe™ environment. The GUARDIANS License will be available at €9.99 (£6.99) per month.
With a GUARDIANS License, gamers can fully experience the new customisable and highly interactive features in online mode including character creation, My Room (personalised online space), expansive interactive lobbies, shops, and new missions. The GUARDIANS License opens up a universe filled with robust regular content downloads including brand new quests and other additions.
Phantasy Star Universe™ will be released on November 24th, 2006.
NEW Super Mario Bros DS review
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Today we have updated our "Review section" with a brand new review of Mario's latest adventure for the Nintendo DS.
"NEW Super Mario Bros" might be one of the best, if not the best , 2D adventure game for any console but the decision is yours.
You can read PlayDevil's review of "NEW Super Mario Bros" right here.
2K Announces Sid Meier's Railroads! Has Gone Gold
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2K, a publishing label of Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc., and Firaxis Games, the Company's world-renowned development studio, today announced that Sid Meier's Railroads! for PC has gone to gold master and will be available at stores in North America on October 17 and in Europe on October 27.
Sid Meier's Railroads! marks the return of one of the most beloved strategy titles of all time and a concept that launched a whole genre and inspired a new generation of strategy games.
Sid Meier's Railroads! returns in a vibrant 3D world delivering exciting multiplayer options, in-game customization tools, streamlined interface and unmatched gameplay that's easy to learn yet challenging to master. Legendary game designer Sid Meier and Firaxis Games, creators of the highest rated computer strategy game* Civilization IV, put gamers in charge of building the greatest rail empire in the nation - managing trains, cargo and the bottom line - while engaging in all-out corporate warfare against rival tycoons, slick entrepreneurs, and robber barons.
"It's a dream come true to be reunited with a game I created early in my career, that has been played and enjoyed by generations of strategy, simulation, and train fans around the world," said Sid Meier, Firaxis Director of Creative Development. "This re-imagining of the original will deliver exciting and challenging gameplay experiences for years to come."
Eidos prepares to RACE
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Eidos Interactive, one of the world’s leading publishers and developers of entertainment software, is pleased to announce a new title for 2006 RACE – The Official WTCC Game releasing in all EMEA territories on PC on November 24th, 2006.
From acclaimed Swedish developers SimBin, RACE – The Official WTCC Game features the hard-hitting, intense action of the WTCC championship for the first time ever. Boasting the complete WTCC championship season of 2006, all the cars, drivers and locations, and a variety of difficulty levels to attract every gamer from hardcore simulation gamers to beginners.
Jacques Behar, President of KSO and Managing Director of Eurosport: "As promoter and host broadcaster of the FIA WTCC, we will be delighted to use all our resources to promote RACE as a new marketing tool, in close collaboration with Simbin and Eidos".
Henrik Roos, CEO of SimBin: "I’m very excited about this cooperation and I am really proud to be able to work with Eidos, one of the leading videogame publishers in the World."
With over 60 different and accurately modelled cars and 10 officially licensed tracks from four continents, the game features a highly detailed damage system, realistic AI opponents with sprint race attitude, dynamic weather effects, real world driver involvement and support for up to 26 players online.
RACE – The Official WTCC Game will be released on November 24th across all European territories on PC.
Reebok signs for Pro Evolution Soccer 6
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Konami Digital Entertainment GmbH has announced a partnership with Reebok for the publisher’s forthcoming Pro Evolution Soccer 6 title. The deal will see Reebok branding displayed within the much vaunted football title, and working with Konami throughout the game’s marketing and promotional campaigns.
Due for release on October 26th for PlayStation 2, Xbox 360 and PC-DVD, with versions for PSP and Nintendo DS versions to follow shortly after, Pro Evolution Soccer 6 is already one of the most anticipated titles for any format. As part of their close collaboration, RBK-branded balls, trophy and advertising hoardings will feature prominently in the game, tying in perfectly with Reebok’s new European football marketing campaign.
“Pro Evolution Soccer 6 is an outstanding football simulation and Reebok is delighted to be involved with a game that is so highly regarded in both the gaming community and the youth marketplace as a whole,” commented Roy Gardner, Reebok European Marketing Director – Lifestyle. “We are looking forward to working with Konami and being involved with the launch of the game."
“Reebok’s efforts at working closely with target age groups akin to those Pro Evolution Soccer 6 appeals to makes them a perfect partner for Konami,” commented Martin Schneider, European Marketing and PR Director for Konami Digital Entertainment GmbH. “As such, we are delighted to be working closely with them to extend awareness of both brands in a partnership that perfectly fits with both companies.”
B-Boy hits the PSP streets
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B-Boy has arrived and is out now on PSP.
Developed by Freestyle Games, B-Boy allows you to battle through an authentic Hip-Hop scene, challenging the world’s best b-boys on the world’s greatest stages - and hopefully take home an in-game adidas sponsorship along the way.
The first and only authentic b-boy title on PSP stays true to the spirit of b-boying thanks to the wireless functionality - giving you the freedom to battle on the move – anytime and anywhere – just as B-Boy competitions were meant to be. Featuring real life Hip-Hop characters, every in-game move is motion-captured from the experts, including moves taken from world famous Redbull athlete, “Crazy Legs”, who also acts as game MC and end of level boss. Battling around the world, B-Boy features real locations and events, accompanied by the sound of a licensed Hip-Hop and classic Funk soundtrack, with each track being selected by the b-boys featured in-game.
War In The Pacific Updated
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Matrix Games (www.matrixgames.com) together with 2by3 Games (www.2by3games.com) and Michel Wood are pleased to deliver a new update for the popular wargame War In The Pacific. This update is now available from the Matrix Games public FTP and the game updates section of the Matrix Games website.
The version 1.802 update includes a host of minor updates and improvements such as improving airgroup control as well as number of improvements that increase turn processing efficiency. The play-by-email synchronization bug has also been squashed in this update so now the focus can be on squashing the opponent! These improvements round out the list of over 70 minor changes included in this patch.
This new update is an incremental update with a comprehensive update to follow later.
War in the Pacific: The Struggle Against Japan 1941-1945™” is a completely new strategy game, based on the award winning “Uncommon Valor” game engine. The scale is 60 miles per hex and losses are individual vehicles, aircraft, guns and squads. Since half the planet Earth is covered by the titanic Pacific struggle, the game is massive in scope, covering thousands of ships tens of thousands of aircraft. There are 15 campaigns included with the game, which can be played against the computer opponent, hot seat, by secure email. War in the Pacific now gives you the chance to fight the entire war your way on every level.
Star Wars Empire At War: Forces Of Corruption Gone Gold
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LucasArts and Petroglyph Games today announced that Star Wars Empire at War: Forces of Corruption, the highly anticipated expansion for Star Wars: Empire at War, has reached the gold milestone and will ship to retail stores in North America October 24.
In the award-winning and best-selling Star Wars: Empire at War, players controlled an entire war for the Star Wars galaxy as the Rebel Alliance or the Galactic Empire. Now, they will face off against both of them in Star Wars Empire at War: Forces of Corruption. As Tyber Zann, players will stop at nothing as they seek to become the most notorious criminal leader since Jabba the Hutt. With all new tactics like piracy, kidnapping, and bribery, players can control the shadowy forces of corruption in their attempt to rule the Star Wars underworld.
In addition, players can hone their skills at racketeering, slavery and intimidation beginning this week through the Forces of Corruption single-player demo. Brand-new corruption gameplay elements are available in the demo, along with new Zann Consortium units and weapons such as cloaking transports, defilers, and buzz droids.
SEGA Takes Flight with After Burner: Black Falcon for the PSP
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SEGA Europe, Ltd. and SEGA® of America, Inc. today announced After Burner: Black Falcon™ on the PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system.
Developed by Planet Moon Studios, After Burner: Black Falcon™ is the first arcade-style flight combat title for the PSP®, combining intensive air combat with explosive gameplay, whilst allowing players to relive the experience of the classic After Burner arcade game. In addition to the in-depth customisation of 19 officially licensed military planes, players can fly solo in a story-rich single-player campaign or compete against friends in a whole host of multiplayer modes.
Players will be able to battle through an in-depth storyline where 13 top-secret fighter planes have been stolen by an underground mercenary organisation known only as Black Falcon. Utilising an assortment of hi-tech licensed planes and explosive weapons, players must recover the jets by engaging in high-speed aerial combat as they dogfight their way through dangerous terrain.
After Burner: Black Falcon™ takes flight with intense arcade-style air combat where gamers fly at maximum speeds using high-powered weapons to destroy land and air-based enemies. With a wide selection of customisation options, players can arm each military jet with an array of weapons, design aircraft and improve performance by installing a variety of engine components for faster, more manoeuvrable fighter planes. Weapons and aircraft can also be acquired in the heroic quest to help players defeat squadrons of enemies and menacing bosses.
Numerous multiplayer challenges are available in both competitive and co-op modes and players can challenge others via wifi in a variety of ways, or choose to work with another ace pilot to achieve testing co-op goals.
Release date: Spring 2007
Trial of Star War Galaxies available !
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LucasArts and Sony Online Entertainment today debuted an enhanced trial for Star Wars Galaxies that, for the first time ever, delivers all the exciting content of the full versions of Star Wars Galaxies: An Empire Divided™, and its first expansion, Jump to Lightspeed™, completely free for up to 14 days. Available via download from StarWarsGalaxies.com, the enhanced Star Wars Galaxies 14-day trial gives players a chance to become their favorite Star Wars® characters and explore a massive online universe filled with other Star Wars fans.
Players who convert their trial account to an active subscription can continue their adventures with these full versions of An Empire Divided and Jump to Lightspeed. As a bonus, they will also receive a copy of Rage of the Wookiees, the second expansion to Star Wars Galaxies, via a convenient download at no additional cost, along with an exclusive in-game item for use by one of their characters.
Star Wars Galaxies is one of the longest-running and most popular online experiences, bringing gamers of all ages and skill levels together in the ultimate Star Wars journey. Beginning aboard the Millennium Falcon, players help Han Solo and Chewbacca fend off the notorious Darth Vader, and then join up with Star Wars characters on missions that span across the galaxy. Heroic adventurers can seek their fortune in space or on the ground as a bounty hunter, smuggler, Jedi or a host of other newly enhanced, unique Star Wars professions, as they ally with the Rebels to fight against the Galactic Empire, or join forces with the Dark Side and crush the Rebel scum.
In addition, all active Star Wars Galaxies subscribers will receive regularly-scheduled updates to the game filled with new content, features and enhancements. These Chapter Adventures, released periodically, are included in the players’ subscription fees and are delivered via automatic downloads in-game. So far in 2006, the Chapter Adventures have introduced high-value content such as brand-new quest series, server-wide events, a profession expertise system, and PvP upgrades.
10TACLE STUDIOS signs Warfront: Turning Point
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This summer, 10TACLE STUDIOS has added an exciting real-time strategy title to its portfolio: “Warfront – Turning Point”. Until its release in February next year, the Hungarian development team Digital Reality will once more put a strong focus on the fine-tuning and will add new maps and additional game modes to the multiplayer mode.
In Warfront, allied forces, German and Russian forces fight for supremacy in Europe in an alternative and futuristic world war setting by using extraordinary “superweapons”. Apart from an exciting single player campaign and innovative ideas like the sophisticated resource management and gun turrets which are controlled from a first-person view, Warfront stands out due to the balanced battles in the multiplayer mode.
New Brain Training games for your NDS
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