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] [Posted by Bjorn on Saturday, December 30 2006 @ 9:33 CET]Grand Turismo HD Concept FREE for PS3 owners !
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Sony Computer Entertainment America (SCEA) announced today the December 24 North American release of Gran Turismo™HD Concept, available for free download, exclusively on the PLAYSTATION®Store (PS Store) for the PLAYSTATION®3 (PS3™) computer entertainment system.
Developed by Polyphony Digital Inc., this driving game features an all-new course for players to be the first to drive a Ferrari on a PS3, as well as have the option to select a car from nine other worldwide manufacturers that include Infiniti, Lotus, Mitsubishi, Nissan and Suzuki. Available only for a limited time, Gran Turismo HD Concept takes full advantage of the PS3 PLAYSTATION 3 hardware performance by providing full HD 1080p* resolution and next-generation car physics ushering in a new era of racing for the gaming industry.
"Gran Turismo HD Concept provides PS3 and automotive fans a glimpse into the future of Gran Turismo," states Kazunori Yamauchi, famed creator of the Gran Turismo franchise. "With the power of the PS3 technology, the world of Gran Turismo is refined by its full HD visual presentation and unique interactive experience, resulting in an even more realistic and true driving simulator."
Upon downloading Gran Turismo HD Concept, PS3 users have access to the Eiger Nordwand course and can compete in Time Trial races to collect and unlock new cars. Upon unlocking the initial 10 cars, the player has access to 10 more "Tuned Cars," as well as access to a new driving mode called "Drift Trial."
In the "Drift Trial" mode, the player can master the art of drifting and achieve ultimate control of their car. Furthermore, when connected to the PLAYSTATION®Network (PS Network), the player can upload their times and view the Top 10 rankings for each car and mode, as well as play and save replays online.
Featured Automobiles in Gran Turismo HD Concept (Year, Manufacturer, Model)
In order of appearance in game (available in stock and "tuned" versions):
1995 Suzuki Cappucino
1989 Mazda Eunos Roadster
2004 Honda Integra TYPE R
1996 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IV GSR
2006 Infiniti G35 Coupe
2005 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX GSR
2005 Lotus Elise 111R
1994 Nissan SKYLINE GT-R Vspec II
1995 Toyota Celica GT-FOUR Rally Car
2006 Ferrari 599
Additional Information About The Game Modes in Gran Turismo HD Concept
In "Time Trial" mode, the player selects a car and must complete the Eiger Nordwand course within the target time indicated at the top of the screen. Each time the player beats the target time, a new car is unlocked and made available for selection. As stated, upon unlocking all of the cars, the player can access tuned cars, along with the option to race Eiger Nordwand in the opposite direction.
In "Drift Trial" mode, the players drifting technique is tested, rather than their lap time. The player earns drift points based on their drift angles, racing lines, and speeds within evaluation zones located at various turns on the course. For each evaluation zone, the results are based on the number of flags and a numerical figure. The point total from all zones determines the players drift points for the lap and is counted toward the rankings.
The following settings are available during gameplay: 1) Transmission the player can select either Manual or Automatic. 2) Stability Management (SM) the player can turn this ON or OFF during gameplay. ASM is designed to prevent vehicle skidding by controlling each of the four wheel brakes independently. 3) Traction Control (TC) Level the player can set the TCS level, which senses drive-wheel slip and prevents wheel spin. 4) Tires the player can select front and rear tires from nine types of brands.
It's a slow slow day today
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Wednesday, December 27 2006 @ 16:07 CET]
You may have noticed it or not, but these days, from Christmas to New Years Eve, there's rarely any interesting news.
Most companies are closed and don't send out press releases and other information. Most of them are in vacation as well.
However as soon something interesting pops up, we'll post it directly on the news page so that you're still updated with the "latest news from the game industry".
We hope you had a great Christmas with friends and/or family and that Santa brought you many great gifts (read games!).
Now, these are the last days of 2006 and we better enjoy it.
Best regards to everybody from all of us here @ PlayDevil.com, keep on playing those games and what's more important, keep SURFING to PlayDevil.com !
Thanks to our passion for games we're still here and to all our visitors for reading our experiences ... we thank you!
Merry Christmas from PlayDevil.com
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We'll be off for a few days, yes it's Christmas time and everybody is off to their family to celibrate.
We wish you a very very merry Christmas and we'll be back on Tuesday!
Hope Santa is giving all the gifts that you want .... regarding videogaming!
Cheers and have fun!
SEGA Announces Virtua Fighter 5 For Xbox 360
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Friday, December 22 2006 @ 17:55 CET]
SEGA of America, Inc. and SEGA Europe Ltd. today announced that the highly anticipated arcade fighting game, Virtua Fighter™ 5, will make its way onto the Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system.
Virtua Fighter™ 5 is scheduled for release on Xbox 360™ in North America and in Europe during late summer 2007. The game will also be available for the PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system on February 20th, 2007 in North America and will be available in Europe simultaneously with the system’s launch in March 2007.
“Those people lucky enough to have already played Virtua Fighter™ 5 will know that it’s laid the foundations to become the clear benchmark for fighting games on all next generation consoles”, said Matt Woodley, Creative Director, SEGA Publishing Europe Ltd. “Bringing Virtua Fighter™ 5 to the Xbox 360™ offers us a platform with power to handle the astonishing visuals, the complex and varied fighting styles of all the customisable characters and will undoubtedly put Virtua Fighter™ 5 into the hands of a gaming audience craving for a highly polished and credible fighting game.”
Virtua Fighter™ 5 features beautifully detailed stages from around the world where players face off in fast-moving martial arts battles against one of 17 characters. Two lively new characters join the elite group of fighters, adding two new unique fighting styles for players to try and master. With more skill and strategy than ever before, players are also given the opportunity to learn and employ the new “Offensive Move” technique to take down their opponents from different angles, adding a new dimension to the game and something for both new and old fans to master. Virtua Fighter™ 5 also includes the ability to customise characters by selecting from four base costumes and a wide range of unlockable accessories and earnable items. As players win more tournaments they will not only earn costumes and accessories, but also prizes and in-game money that will allow them to buy items from the in-game shop.
“The Virtua Fighter™ series from SEGA has one of the most prestigious histories in video games,” said Jeff Bell, corporate vice president of global marketing for the Interactive Entertainment Business at Microsoft. “It’s a franchise that has grown an army of loyal fans both in arcades and on consoles worldwide, and is consistently rated extremely high by the media. Fighting game fans have been hungry for Virtua Fighter™ 5 and we can now proudly deliver this game with SEGA to Xbox 360 gamers around the world.”
Developed by the highly renowned Tokyo based development team, AM R&D Development No.2, Virtua Fighter™ 5 for the Xbox 360™ will be available across Europe and North America during late summer 2007.
New Wii Classic games for North America gamers
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Friday, December 22 2006 @ 17:54 CET]
As a special holiday surprise for Wii™ owners from Nintendo, the original Super Mario Bros.™ game for the Nintendo Entertainment System® will appear in the Wii Shop Channel and be downloadable for 500 Wii Points™. Wii owners with a high-speed Internet connection can redeem Wii Points to download the game. Wii Points can be purchased in the Wii Shop Channel or at retail outlets.
The classic game will make Christmas morning extra special, just as it did more than two decades ago. Super Mario Bros. reigns as perhaps the best-known and most-played game on any video game system in history. More than 40.2 million copies of the game found their way into homes worldwide. In addition to Super Mario Bros., other top-notch offerings available on Dec. 25 include:
Street Fighter® II: The World Warrior (Super NES®, 1-2 players, 800 Wii Points): This game revolutionized the fighting-game genre with characters that had unique fighting skills, speed, special moves and unique endings.
Super Castlevania® IV (Super NES, 1 player, 800 Wii Points): Simon Belmont uses his trusty whip to fight the powers of evil on his way to Dracula's Castle.
Toe Jam & Earl™ (Sega Genesis, 1-2 players, 800 Wii Points): Two fun-loving aliens crash on Earth and must find 10 pieces of their spaceship so they can get back home to Planet Funkotron.
R-TYPE® (TurboGrafx16, 1-2 players, 800 Wii Points): This is a completely faithful port - right down to the character details - of the famous shooting-game masterpiece.
Games available on Jan. 1 include:
Baseball (NES, 1-2 players, 500 Wii Points): Play nine innings of fierce sandlot competition with classic NES graphics.
Urban Champion™ (NES, 1-2 players, 500 Wii Points): Don't let the big, bad bully of the neighborhood push you around! Players fight for the right to walk the street.
More info on retail and demo of Xbox 360 Crackdown
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The highly-anticipated Xbox 360 title "Crackdown" explodes onto Xbox Live Marketplace with an exciting single player and online cooperative demo on 18th January, 2007 followed by its arrival on store shelves from 23rd February, 2007
Pacific City is overridden; crime controls the streets. Three powerful gangs have taken the once-great metropolis hostage and the police have proven powerless in their efforts to regain control. Only the Agency – with genetically enhanced agents of justice – can provide citizens with some sense of hope.
Brace yourself. Justice is coming to Pacific City.
On 18th January, 2007, gamers will be given the chance to battle their way through the roads and rooftops of “Crackdown” as the title’s explosive demo lands on Xbox Live Marketplace. And for the ultimate payback, they will combine forces in online co-op play for twice the thrills and double the retribution.
Gamers will arm themselves with high-tech weapons, transformable vehicles and incredible, gravity-defying super-skills in preparation to take back Pacific City when “Crackdown” storms European store shelves on 23rd February, 2007.
From Real Time Worlds, “Crackdown” pushes the action-driving hybrid genre into the next generation with the first ever truly 3-D playground. Gamers will level up their Agent’s strength, agility, firearms, explosives and driving skills while scaling the fully vertical world of “Crackdown.” This 15-rated game incorporates revolutionary co-op gameplay throughout the entire freeform campaign. Creating a volatile cocktail of judicial oppression, players will clean up the streets of a truly interactive world when ”Crackdown” hits store shelves at a suggested retail price of £44.99
2K Launches Worldwide BioShock Website
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Friday, December 22 2006 @ 17:51 CET]
The official worldwide website for BioShock, 2K's highly anticipated and award-winning innovative first person shooter, is now active at www.BioShockGame.com.
Among its many offerings, www.BioShockGame.com is the destination for exclusive screenshots, high-definition videos and trailers, news, information from the developers, and discussion about BioShock. The BioShock global website also provides content in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, French, German, and Italian.
In development at Irrational Games, a wholly owned 2K Studio, BioShock is slated to ship exclusively Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and Games for Windows, the new brand optimized for Windows XP and Windows Vista.
Please note that since the ratings are pending for this game, 2K requests an age gate limiting the access to the footage to ages 17 and up.
Review of F.E.A.R. for Xbox 360 ONLINE !
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One of our new reviewers, Brad has taken a closer look on Sierra's latest Horror FPS for the Xbox 360, namely "F.E.A.R." and he was pretty scared when and after playing it.
His full review of this FPS for the 360 can be read right here.
No more Xbox 360 Scratches with Zoozen Protector!
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Thursday, December 21 2006 @ 13:38 CET]
Next generation gaming comes at a greater cost which results in greater valued being placed on the protection of video game discs. The Xbox 360 has been no stranger to owners witnessing the console scratching game discs in particular reference to when the console is moved. The Zoozen ‘protector’ provides a simple and effective solution which ensures that no discs will be scratched while in play. Gamers can now shift the Xbox 360™ from a horizontal to vertical position and vice versa without fear of disc scratching. Better yet, the installation of the ‘protector’ will not void the warranty of the console.
The Zoozen protector includes three innovatively created easy to install soft foam pads which attach to the top of the optical drive tray. The pads can be installed by even the most amateur of gamers within two minutes and will ensure the security of any disc media while in play. Gamers can now rest assured that their expensive games will not be susceptible to any form of scratching even under the most dynamic of conditions.
The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Into Next Generation ?
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Thursday, December 21 2006 @ 13:34 CET]
Today Ubisoft announced that its TMNT™ video game, based on the upcoming CGI feature-length film starring the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, is being developed for the Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, the PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system, Windows® PC, Game Boy® Advance, Nintendo DS™, Nintendo GameCube™ and Wii™.
The TMNT video game is being created by Ubisoft developers in its world-class Montreal and Quebec City studios and will be available at retail stores nationwide March 13, 2007, just ahead of the release of the feature-length film March 23.
The new TMNT video game uses the same dark and dangerous environments and adventurous themes featured in the new TMNT CGI film being developed by Imagi Animation Studios and Mirage Licensing. The TMNT movie takes place in a New York City plagued by secretive villains and strange, otherworldly creatures. Faced with these perils, the Turtles will experience their most trying time as heroes and as a family, as Raphael, Donatello and Michelangelo lose their focus and struggle to maintain their unity and ninja discipline. In the movie and in the highly immersive video game adventure, it’s up to Leonardo and the faithful father figure Splinter to reunite the band of brothers and save New York City from a monstrous evil that lurks around every corner. Video game players will engage in over-the-top acrobatic navigation, collaborative combat and powerful fighting moves.
“The TMNT movie is all about the emotions associated with family and teenage angst,” said Nick Harper, creative director of the TMNT game at Ubisoft’s Montreal development studio. “We’ve taken that philosophy and turned it into gameplay mechanics that will be fun and challenging. The direction for the all new TMNT movie and game is a darker, more realistic Turtle experience. Gamers will embody all four Turtles from the big screen to engage in over-the-top action sequences and intense ninja combat. We think this game will appeal to kids, teens and adults alike.”
New Pokémon To Make Diamond-And-Pearl-Studded Debut
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Thursday, December 21 2006 @ 13:34 CET]
Pokémon trainers of the world, unite! How else will you manage to complete your Pokédex and challenge the sinister plot of Team Galactic? On April 22, Pokémon® Diamond and Pokémon® Pearl, the Pokémon series for the best-selling Nintendo DS™ game system, become available in the Americas. These two titles represent the latest adventure in the popular Pokémon franchise.
Pokémon Diamond and Pokémon Pearl offer a number of exciting new features to please both experienced and new Pokémon fans alike. Set in an entirely new region called "Sinnoh," players can choose to begin their adventure as either a boy or girl Pokémon trainer on a path to becoming Pokémon League Champion. The adventure continues as players can bring Pokémon from their Game Boy® Advance Pokémon games to Pokémon Diamond and Pokémon Pearl using the GBA game slot on their Nintendo DS.
As players trade and collect Pokémon to complete their Pokédex in this new challenge, for the first time they'll have the chance to catch new Pokémon, Munchlax™ and Weavile™. They also can play via local wireless with up to eight other trainers while new moves and abilities deepen strategy.
"After recently celebrating its 10th anniversary, the Pokémon franchise continues to get stronger," says George Harrison, Nintendo of America's senior vice president of marketing and corporate communications. "These two new titles represent the best that Pokémon has to offer, and a great opportunity for Game Boy users to upgrade to Nintendo DS."
Unique pre-sell styluses featuring new Pokémon from the new series will be available by reserving the game early at participating retailers. Stay tuned for more details about this special offer. Pokémon games continue to be wildly popular around the world, with more than 155 million units sold worldwide through September 2006. Pokémon Diamond and Pokémon Pearl are currently shattering sales records in Japan since their September launch.
Pokémon Diamond and Pokémon Pearl for Nintendo DS will be available April 22, and are Rated E for Everyone.
Novadrome on Xbox Live Arcade available
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Stainless Software, the creators of the renowned vehicle-combat franchise “Carmageddon,” return to their roots with “Novadrome,” an original 3-D smash-’em-up game. This unique combat-driving game will be available for download on Xbox Live® Arcade for Xbox 360™ beginning Wednesday, 20th December at 9.00 a.m. GMT
In “Novadrome,” gamers blast, smash and crash their way to victory as they fight for survival among friends and foes alike in one of the 15 detailed 3-D arenas. Abducted by robots from the planet Nova, the players must stop their captors before they launch a full-scale invasion against Earth. Gamers will need to use their speed, wit and determination to defeat robot gladiators and other abductees in a series of combat-driving competitions in high-powered armored vehicles equipped with front-mounted automatic weapons. “Novadrome” also provides gamers with a frantic multiplayer mode for up to eight players via Xbox Live*.
“Novadrome” will be available worldwide for 800 Microsoft Points.
GAME FEATURES
Frantic eight-player combat driving action set in a far-out alien world
More than 20 off-road-buggy-style combat vehicles
Fifteen arenas full of non-stop, furious action. Combat arenas feature upgrades, power-ups, obstacles and mines.
A wide range of dynamic vehicle-mounted weapons. Players can destroy their enemies and acquire their weapons as power-ups.
Adrenaline-pumping boss encounters. Humans in vehicles battle a variety of gladiatorial robot opponents.
Multiple gameplay modes and event types to choose from. Modes are Career, Arcade Challenge, Free Play, and Multiplayer.
Top of the class. Gamers can experiment with the various modes and master their gameplay to top the online “Novadrome” leaderboards.
Twelve achievements. Players can increase their gamerscore by 200 points with 12 diverse achievements.
WHERE CAN I GET IT?
“Novadrome” can be downloaded beginning Wednesday, 20th December at 9.00am on Xbox Live Arcade.
“Novadrome”: 800 Microsoft Points, Rated E10+ (Fantasy Violence)
Scarface: The World is Yours Now Backwards-Compatible On 360
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Xbox 360 owners can now “say hello” to Scarface: The World is Yours (Xbox) right on their next-gen hardware thanks to the latest compatibility update by Microsoft.
The #1 selling video game and #1 selling Xbox game in North America for October made the list of updated titles, enabling Xbox 360 owners to join more than a million other gamers worldwide in becoming the one-and-only Tony Montana, to reclaim his fallen empire from those who stole it from him.
Ultimate FPS control method comes to Xbox 360
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Since the informal announcement of the XCM XFPS 360 across the internet media, gamers have been left with an antagonising wait to see their dreams manufacture into reality.
Well today, XCM are delighted to announce the time has come for all First Person Shooter (FPS) fans on the Xbox 360™ to rejoice! Final testing has been successfully completed on the XFPS 360 and stocks will be shipping to retailers shortly.
For all those gamers who have been out of touch recently, the XFPS 360 is an ingenious keyboard and mouse adapter for use with the Xbox 360™. Not only is the XFPS 360 compatible with all standard PS/2 input devices but also modern USB keyboards and mice. But wait, there's more! The XFPS 360 even makes traditional Playstation 2™controllers and peripherals compatible on the Xbox 360, as well as a plethora of peripherals. This exquisite device even manages to bring auto fire functionality to the Xbox 360, now that tops off what promises to be the must have peripheral for years to come!
We have received an overwhelming amount of inquiries asking if the XFPS 360 allows gamers to set their own key presets, and the answer is YES! The XFPS 360 ships with a default ‘WASD’ setting but gamers are free to easily alter key mapping via an included programming function. More details will be released very soon!
Reel Fishing: The Great Outdoors for PSP
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Wednesday, December 20 2006 @ 18:55 CET]
ZOO Digital Publishing, the Sheffield-based computer games publisher, has today announced the release of its first game for the Playstation®Portable – Reel Fishing®: The Great Outdoors.
This immersive fishing simulator lets players cast their virtual line across a host of varied environments in an effort to catch over 20 different species of fresh water fish. Developed by Natsume, Reel Fishing®: The Great Outdoors, will be exclusively distributed throughout Europe by ZOO Digital Publishing.
The release of Reel Fishing®: The Great Outdoors also marks the popular series’ first outing onto the PSP allowing players to enjoy some amazing 3D fishing whenever and wherever they like. The location, weather conditions, time of day and season will all effect which species are biting and players have to find the right combination of tackle to land the big fish. Ad Hoc multiplayer also allows computer game anglers to take on their friends in a wireless fishing match.
“Reel Fishing® will offer PSP owners something completely different,” commented Andy Gray, PR & Marketing, ZOO Digital Publishing. “Fishing is the largest participation sport in the UK and yet there is a real lack of quality fishing simulators in the market at present.
“The great thing about Reel Fishing is its accessibility. A complete novice is able to enjoy a successful spell by the riverbank just as much as a keen angler but it also has a depth and range of information that will be enlightening to everyone. It should be a real hit.”
Reel Fishing: The Great Outdoors will be released on the PSP on 22nd December 2006.
Downloadable Call of Duty 3 Maps on Xbox Live
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Activision announced plans today to release two waves of Call of Duty® 3 multiplayer maps after the holidays: the Bonus Map (free) and the Valor Map Pack (800 Microsoft points).
The Bonus Map, named "Champs," will take players to Port Royal de Champs, France for classic Call of Duty infantry-based combat that's great for small to medium-sized online games.
The Valor Map Pack will contain five new multiplayer maps that will take players through a maze of French locales that serve up settings primed for intense close-quarters action, whether via online, split-screen or System Link play.
Magical Starsign launches on DS across Europe
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Magical Starsign launches across Europe on the Nintendo DS on 9th February 2007.
The students of Will-o-Wisp magical academy have a problem - their respected and powerful teacher, Madeleine, has mysteriously disappeared and now it’s up to them to find her. But it’s not that simple! Whilst commandeering rocket ships to find her they have become separated and are scattered far and wide throughout space. It is now up to you, the player, to rescue both the teacher and students - combining magic and technology - to create the ultimate team and perhaps save the solar system while you are at it!
Players can take on the role of either a male or female character and must hop from planet to planet, rounding up the lost students and fighting their way past monsters. As players progress through the game they can earn experience points and buy weapons, armour and other items. By gaining levels and power, eventually players are able to explore the whole world as they uncover the secret behind their teacher’s disappearance.
In Magical Starsign, the ability to control and master the Nintendo DS stylus is key. Players use the touch screen and stylus to do everything from combat to conversation. During combat, players tap the attack they want to use on the command wheel featured, then tap the target enemy to perform the chosen attack.
Attacks in Magical Starsign are of a magical nature with each character linked to the “Sign” of one of the planets. This Sign will determine the type of magic they use, with its strength and weakness determined by the stars as the planets move through the solar system. This doesn’t only apply to the player and their fellow students; tough monsters will also grow stronger as the planets move into prominence. Mastering an ever changing battle plan will therefore be key to a player’s success.
There are two forms of attack that players can carry out as they occupy “Ranks” in the game. From the Front Rank characters can attack individual enemies through physical or magical means. However, from the Back Rank, they cannot attack physically, but can take on a number of enemies at once using only their magical powers. To time a battle to perfection, players can assess the position of the planets via the Astrolog to make sure they enter into combat whilst at their strongest.
Magical Starsign also offers players the chance to team up with their friends and explore the Amigo Dungeon together. Up to six players can link together wirelessly to face numerous challenges and gain incredible rewards. Also through the wireless connection, players can enter Tag Mode. Here they can exchange data and grow unique ‘Egg’ characters which grow and hatch over time.
Enter Magical Starsign into your astrological chart as the planets come into alignment to mark its launch across Europe on 9th February 2007. Magical Starsign will be available for the estimated retail price of around £29.99.
Disney's Chicken Little: Ace in Action for Wii
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Following the successful launch of the Wii™ video game console from Nintendo, Disney’s Chicken Little: Ace in Action, Disney’s first self-published Wii video game, is now available. Developed by Avalanche Software, Buena Vista Games’ Salt Lake City studio focused on Disney’s feature animation properties and family-friendly entertainment, Disney’s Chicken Little: Ace in Action harnesses the innovative capabilities of the Wii controls and provides gamers with a unique, humor-filled action game.
Inspired by the “movie within a movie” ending of the box office hit film, “Chicken Little,” and featuring the movie’s super hero alter-ego characters Ace, Abby and Runt in an outer space adventure to save Earth, Disney’s Chicken Little: Ace in Action lets players blast their way through a variety of environments while experiencing new storylines.
Disney’s Chicken Little: Ace in Action gives fans of last year’s hit movie the chance to interact with new characters and environments as they venture through a story that centers around taking on villains, including Foxy Loxy, Goosey Loosey and Sleazel Weasel. The original Chicken Little and his friends Abby, Runt and Fish from the film are featured in cut scenes and provide commentary throughout the adventure. Players will shoot enemies by pointing the Wii Remote at their targets, while also using the Nunchuk to guide their way through the game.
CDV Releases Alien Shooter Vengeance Demo
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Wednesday, December 20 2006 @ 18:50 CET]
CDV Software Entertainment USA is pleased to announce the release of a new demo for Alien Shooter: Vengeance.
The demo will have players blasting through waves of marauding aliens while they battle through four intense levels (two campaign, two skirmish) from the game. An exciting combination of arcade action and RPG, Alien Shooter: Vengeance is set to ship to North American retail on January 22, 2007.
The (190 MB) demo includes the following:
• Four missions (two campaign, two skirmish) from the final retail game
• One vehicle (the buggy) available in the first mission
• Eight characters with the full complement of RPG skills from the full game
• A variety of devastating weapons, including the Heckler Koch XM-29 OICW, Laser Pistol S50, Shotgun Silbert DM5, Grenade Launcher RG6 and the Desert Eagle pistol
The demo is available at -
• Filefront
Xbox Live Vision Camera Hardware Review ONLINE !
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Finally, we have updated our "Hardware Section" with a brand new hardware add-on for Microsoft's NEXT-GEN console, the Xbox 360.
It's the new "Xbox Live Vision Camera" that we took a closer look on and if you haven't decided yet wether to buy one for Christmas or not, this review will definitely help you further.
The full "Xbox Live Vision Camera" Review can be read right here.
New Xbox 360 Wireless Entertainment Pack
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Microsoft has announced that a new Xbox 360 Pack will be available soon containing the following extras:
Bundle Contents: An Xbox 360 console + 2 games + extra Wireless Controller
Xbox 360 System (including):
o Console
o Hard Drive (20GB)
o Wireless Controller
o Headset
o All cables for Standard and HD TVs
o Headset
o Free access to Xbox Live PLUS 30 Day free Xbox Live Gold trial
Extra Wireless Controller
o Invite a friend and now you can both enjoy high-performance wireless gaming at the same time.
2 games
o Project Gotham Racing 3
o Xbox Live Arcade Unplugged
Free Holiday Download for Sid Meier's Railroads!
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Tuesday, December 19 2006 @ 17:01 CET]
Just in time for the holidays, 2K will release a free holiday scenario for Sid Meier’s Railroads! created by the team at Firaxis. In this new special seasonal mode, players reemerge as a former railroad tycoon, determined once again to redeem himself and more importantly, save Christmas! Help Santa and his elves make and transport toys to Santa's Station by the rapidly-approaching deadline.
The new scenario will be ready this week at http://www.sidmeiersrailroads.com and include a new holiday train with 2 skins and custom sounds; holiday-themed goodies like cookies, eggnog and toys; cheerful music to get players in the holiday spirit; a wide-open, rugged North Pole environment; and a challenging scenario that pits you against up to three other robber barons who are out to destroy Christmas.
Three New Classic Games Announced For Wii Shop Channel
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Later today Nintendo will add three new classic games to the popular Wii™ video game system's Wii Shop Channel. The three new titles will be added at 9 a.m. Pacific time. Nintendo will add new games to the channel every Monday. Wii owners with a high-speed Internet connection can redeem Wii Points to download the games. Wii Points can be purchased in the Wii Shop Channel or at retail outlets. This week's new games are:
Tennis (NES®, 1-2 players, 500 Wii Points): Players slam a serve, fire a blazing backhand and smash a forehand volley on their way to winning the victory cup. Players can choose between five different levels of difficulty, ranging from Beginner all the way up to Advanced. If players want to become true champs, they should be ready to show off their most brilliant lobs and most powerful smashes. Play a singles match or grab a partner for doubles, and then choose an opponent. Players control the moves in tennis action so intense, they'll almost believe they're at center court.
Space Harrier II™ (Sega Genesis, 1 player, 800 Wii Points): Fantasyland has been taken over by destructive forces, and a call for help comes from deep in the universe. Space Harrier is quick on the scene, armed with his laser, to defeat wave after wave of destructive forces through 12 thrilling stages, with a dangerous boss waiting at the end of each round.
Military Madness™ (TurboGrafx16, 1-2 players, 600 Wii Points): Military Madness is a futuristic simulation game that throws the player into the middle of a war on the moon's surface. The rules are simple, making it easy for newcomers to enjoy the thrills of this war-strategy game. Players can see easy-to-understand, detailed instructions from the Title screen. Military Madness is also turn-based, allowing players to devise their strategy before they move. To top it off, the units players have for each stage are already decided, allowing them to concentrate on commanding. Use the terrain and surround enemies to claim victory. Fight through all 16 stages and thwart the enemy's ambitions!
Crave Entertainment Announces Sudokuro for DS
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Crave Entertainment, a leading publisher of console videogames for the casual gamer, today announced plans to publish Sudokuro for the Nintendo DS handheld system.
Featuring both the incredibly popular and highly addictive Sudoku and Kakuro logic games, Sudokuro contains enough puzzling goodness to keep even the most avid fans occupied.
“The Sudoku and Kakuro puzzle phenomenon is still going strong and appeals to all ages,” remarked Sheri Snow, Director of Marketing for Crave Entertainment. “With unlimited replay, a special mode for kids, and the stylus input with handwriting recognition, this game is a natural fit for the Nintendo DS.”
USA Today says Sudoku has “become the morning brain breakfast for millions of commuters,” and the New York Times comments, “no puzzle has had such a fast introduction in newspapers since the crossword craze of 1924-25.” Kakuro, often called a mathematical translation of the crossword, is second in popularity only to Sudoku in Japan.
Sudokuro contains 1,500 hand-crafted Sudoku puzzles and an unlimited number of automatically Sudoku puzzles, and over 5,000 Kakuro puzzles. Players may enter data either with buttons or the Nintendo DS stylus, and the game also features text recognition. With three levels of difficulty for each game, and a simple 2x2 Sudoku mode especially designed for children, the whole family can enjoy playing Sudokuro.
Sudokuro is expected to be available in January 2007 for a retail price of $19.99.
Gripshift soon available for PlayStation Network
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specially redesigned for e-Distribution (EDI) through the PlayStation®Network. Running at 60fps, GripShift will come to life on the PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system in unbelievable high-definition at 720p. Featuring totally enhanced HD graphics, refined gameplay and four player online multiplayer for $9.99.
ABOUT GRIPSHIFT:
Digital Download Deluxe: Experience a re-mix of the award-winning original specifically redesigned for e-Distribution through the PlayStation Network.
Original Combination of Genres: Stunt Driving, Platform-Action and Puzzle-Solving genres combine to offer the ultimate driving experience.
Vibrant 3D Environments in HD: Navigate through roller-coaster style tracks and four themed worlds (Desert, Jungle, Ice and Horror) that come alive with brilliant 3D HD graphics at 720p 60fps stunning lighting and dynamic visual effects.
All-new Gameplay and Content: Improved vehicle handling provides more responsive controls while new game content includes 125+ new and re-mixed levels, 25 race tracks, and an enhanced music soundtrack.
Puzzle-like Challenges: Multiple routes, short-cuts, loops, jumps, ramps, power-ups and dangers to avoid will challenge the most skilled drivers.
WHEN:
GripShift® is slated for release late December/early January.
New Nintendo Wii Software for Q1 2007
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Nintendo has plenty in store to keep your Wii Remote busy in the New Year. Whatever sort of games you like to play there is something for everyone on Wii, ranging from nail-bitingly addictive puzzle games to adrenaline-filled action titles. This selection will keep you tied up until Easter!
Nintendo Wii Software - Release Date Q1 2007
Wario Ware: Smooth Moves (Nintendo) - 12 Jan 2007
Excite Truck (Nintendo) - 16 Feb 2007
Kororinpa (Hudson) - 23 Feb 2007
Baja Racing (Conspiracy) - Feb 2007
Disney’s Chicken Little: Ace in Action (Disney / Buena Vista Games) - Feb 2007
Wing Island (Hudson) - 23 March 2007
BIONICLE Heroes (Eidos) - 23 March 2007
SSXTM Blur (EA) - March 2007
Mario Party 8 (Nintendo) - March 2007
Tiger Woods PGA TOUR® (EA) - March 2007
Bust a Move Wii (505Games) - March 2007
Dragonball Z Budokai Tenkaichi 2 (Namco Bandai Games) - March 2007
Disney’s Meet the Robinsons (Disney / Buena Vista Games) - March 2007
Sonic and the Secret Rings (SEGA) - March 2007
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (Ubisoft) - March 2007
Heatseaker (Codemasters) - Q1 2007
Metal Slug Anthology (Ignition) - Q1 2007
Mortal Kombat: Armageddon (Midway Games) - Q1 2007
Rampage Total Destruction (Midway Games) - Q1 2007
The Ant Bully (Movie License) (Midway Games) - Q1 2007
The Grim Adventure of Billy and Mandy (Midway Games) - Q1 2007
Impossible Mission (System 3) - Q1 2007
Leaderboard Golf (System 3) - Q1 2007
Puzzle Balls (System 3) - Q1 2007
Tennis Masters (System 3) - Q1 2007
Blazing Angels: Squadrons of WWII (Ubisoft) - Q1 2007
Nintendo reveals DS release schedule for Q1 2007
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With the new year fast approaching it’s time to look forward to a great array of games for the Nintendo DS that are sure to brighten up those January blues. With Mario and Donkey Kong making a welcome return in Mario Vs. Donkey Kong 2: March of the Minis and Starfox fans in for a treat with Star Fox Command, it won’t be hard to find something to spend those Christmas vouchers on!
Owners of Nintendo DS have a magnitude of titles to excite and inspire them in 2007 including Actionloop, Mario Slam Basketball, Pokémon Ranger from Nintendo and a great selection of third party titles such as Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney Justice For All hitting the shelves across Europe. So no matter what type of game you are looking for, there is something for everyone this winter!
Nintendo DS Software - Release Date - Q1 2007
Children of Mana (Nintendo) - 12th Jan 2007
Star Fox Command (Nintendo) - 26th Jan 2007
Actionloop (Nintendo) - 26th Jan 2007
Freedom Wings (ZOO Digital) - 26th Jan 2007
Guru Guru (505Games) - Jan 2007
Labyrinth (505Games) - Jan 2007
Monster Puzzle (505Games) - Jan 2007
Mystery Detective (505Games) - Jan 2007
The Professors Brain Trainer: Logic (505Games) - Jan 2007
The Professors Brain Trainer: Memory (505Games) - Jan 2007
Mech Assault Phantom War (Majesco) - Jan 2007
Flipper Critters (Conspiracy) - Jan 2007
Contact (Marvelous/Rising Star Games) - 2nd Feb 2007
New Zealand Story (Marvelous/Rising Star Games) - 2ndFeb 2007
Uno/Skipbo Compilation/Uno Freefall (ZOO Digital) - 2nd Feb 2007
Disney's Kim Possible Global Gemini (Disney/Buena Vista Games) - 8th Feb 2006
Magical Starsign (Nintendo) - 9th Feb 2007
Mario Slam Basketball (Nintendo) - 16th Feb 2007
Lionel Trains "On Track" (ZOO Digital) - 16th Feb 2007
Guilty Gear Dust Strikers (Majesco/THQ) - 20th Feb 2007
Fossil League (D3Publisher of Europe) - 23rd Feb 2007
Bomberman Land (Marvelous/Rising Star Games) - 23rd Feb 2007
Uno 52 (ZOO Digital) - 23rd Feb 2007
Monster Bomber (505Games) - Feb 2007
Touch Party Game (505Games) - Feb 2007
Turn it Around (505Games) - Feb 2007
Barbie in the 12 Dancing Princesses (Activision) - Feb 2007
Shrek Smash 'N Crash Racing (Activision) - Feb 2007
Party Carnival (D3Publisher of Europe) - Feb 2007
Castlevania: Portrait of Ruin (Konami) - Feb 2007
Death Jr. And The Science Fair of Doom (Konami) - Feb 2007
Lunar Knights (Konami) - Feb 2007
My Frogger Toy Trials (Konami) - Feb 2007
Xiaolin Showdown (Konami) - Feb 2007
Dino Master (Majesco) - Feb 2007
Super Black Bass Fishing (Majesco) - Feb 2007
Gunpey (Namco Bandai Games) - Feb 2007
Danny Phantom Urban Jungle (THQ) - 2nd Mar 2007
Actua Pool (ZOO Digital) - 2nd Mar 2007
Princess Natasha "Student-Secret Agent-Princess" (ZOO Digital) - 2nd Mar 2007
Mario vs. Donkey Kong 2: March of the Minis (Nintendo) - 9th March 2007
Spectrobes (Disney/Buena Vista Games) - 15th Mar 2007
Rayman Raving RabbidsTM (Ubisoft) - 15th Mar 2007
Puzzle Quest: Challenge of the Warlords (D3Publisher of Europe) - 16th Mar 2007
Bubble Bobble Double Shot (Marvelous/Rising Star Games) - 16th Mar 2007
Schach (dtp) - 16th Mar 2007
Best Friends – Hunde & Katzen (dtp) - 23rd Mar 2007
Hello Kitty (Empire) - 23rd Mar 2007
Pokémon Ranger (Nintendo) - 30th March 2007
Mein Gestüt (tentative name) - 30th Mar 2007
Kameleon DS (505Games) - Mar 2007
Touch Detective (505Games) – French version - Mar 2007
Disney's Meet The Robinsons (Disney/Buena Vista Games) - Mar 2007
Diner Dash (Eidos) - Mar 2007
Zendoku (Eidos) - Mar 2007
SEGA Presents Touch Darts (working title) (SEGA) - Mar 2007
Petz Vet (Ubisoft) - Mar 2007
The Settlers (Ubisoft) - Mar 2007
Teenage Mutant Minja Turtles (Ubisoft) - Mar 2007
Theme Park (EA) - Spring 2007
Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney Justice For All (Capcom) - Q1 2007
Micro Machines V4 (Codemasters) - Q1 2007
Rafa Nadal Tennis (Codemasters) - Q1 2007
Garfield Nightmare (Classic) (Game Factory/K.E. Media) - Q1 2007
Harlem Globetrotters World Tour (ZOO Digital) - Q1 2007
March of the Penguins (ZOO Digital) - Q1 2007
Wiffle Ball Advance (ZOO Digital) - Q1 2007
Free Opera Internet Browser for Wii
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Nintendo’s wildly popular Wii™ home video game system not only revolutionizes how people play games, but it also entices new people into the world of gaming.
On Dec. 22, Nintendo and Opera Software bring the Internet to the living room couch with a free trial version of the Opera Web browser. Wii owners with a high-speed Internet connection can download a free trial Opera browser to activate the Internet Channel of the Wii Menu and begin surfing the Web.
“In addition to providing innovative and exciting new ways to play, Wii also offers further services and entertainment for all the family. This newest Wii Menu Channel is just the latest example of how we are doing this” says Nintendo of Europe Marketing Director, Laurent Fischer. “Wii is the perfect console for everyone to enjoy and this is being reflected in the phenomenal sales across Europe. ”
“Our software brings the power and reach of the Internet to the hottest video game system available,” says Scott Hedrick, Executive Vice President, Devices at Opera Software. “Wii’s unique interface adds a new dimension to our browser, making it a useful tool that the whole family will enjoy operating with ease.”
The final version of the Opera browser will be available at the end of March 2007, and will be free for all Wii owners to download through the end of June. After June 2007, the browser will be available for download in the Wii Shop Channel for 500 Wii Points.
The Internet Channel provides an optimal Web browsing experience on people’s home television. The Adobe Flash-enabled trial version of the Opera browser puts the Internet right onto owners’ television screens and lets them browse with ease, enabling them to check sports scores, plot maps or visit their favorite Web sites. Multiple family members can gather around the television to plan a holiday or make online purchases. The pointing abilities of the Wii Remote allow users to click on links they want to see or to zoom into any part of the screen through the motion of the controller. In addition, the Wii Remote can be used with an on-screen keyboard to make text entry as easy as point and click.
The Forecast Channel, provided by Weathernews which allows users to check out weather information for anywhere in the world using a 3-D globe, is available from 19th December.
The Internet Channel joins the four channels which have been available since launch: Disc Channel, Photo Channel, Mii™ Channel and Wii Shop Channel as well as the newly available Forecast Channel. The Internet Channel, Forecast Channel and Wii Shop Channel are available at no charge, though they require Wii owners to have a high-speed Internet connection.
Gears of War surpasses 2 MILLION unit sales worldwide !
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A video game champion has been crowned as today “Gears of War” made history by becoming the fastest-selling next-gen game of 2006 and the fastest-selling exclusive Xbox® game of all time.
Microsoft Game Studios and Epic Games Inc. today confirmed that “Gears of War,” the Xbox 360™-exclusive title, has sold more than 2 million copies worldwide since its release six weeks ago.
“‘Gears of War’ clearly has won the battle for the title of the must-have game of the year,” said Richard Teversham, Director of Platform & Marketing, Home and Entertainment Division EMEA. “Its phenomenal success is one of many reasons why Xbox 360 is the ultimate place to get together with friends to play this Christmas.”
“We’ve always held high hopes for ‘Gears of War,’ but we never expected such an overwhelmingly positive response from critics and gamers all over the world,” said Michael Capps, president, Epic Games. “I can’t describe how stoked our team is right now. Our fans can absolutely count on Epic to keep delivering new gameplay through Xbox Live®.”
In addition to being the must-have video game of the holiday season, “Gears of War” continues to rage on the Xbox Live battlefield as well, with more than 1 million unique gamers engaging in 10 million online gameplay sessions and unlocking an impressive 7 million achievements. On top of being the No. 1 title on Xbox Live, “Gears of War” has driven new members to the network; paid registrations per day have skyrocketed more than 50 percent since the game’s launch.
Upcoming game Two Worlds runs fine on medium PC !
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Increasing uncertainty normally reigns in the fan community during the run-up to the release of a high-quality RPG that’s ‘hard on hardware’. “Is my processor fast enough, or will I maybe need a new graphics card?” are the questions gamers usually ask themselves.
OK, console owners won't have these problems with "Two Worlds" - but the good news is...neither will most PC gamers!
Even older PCs can be your portal to this wonderful world of fantasy. A 2 GHz processor and 512 MB RAM are the basic requirements, Shader technology 2.0 is the minimum as far as graphics cards go and Windows XP or Vista are the basic operating systems.
Eidos going to distribute JoWood titles in parts of Europe
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JoWooD Productions is pleased to announce a distribution agreement with Eidos Interactive, one of the world’s leading publishers and developers of entertainment software to distribute JoWooD titles in Spain, France and Benelux.
Among the first titles released will be the action-shooter “The Mark”, the ski simulation “Alpine Ski Racing 2007” and the extreme-sports-game “Freak Out – Extreme Freeride”.
“We are pleased to have Eidos as a strong partner for Southern Europe and Benelux and we are convinced that their well structured distribution networks and combined marketing and sales power will provide the ideal distribution for our products”, said Georg Klotzberg, Vice President Sales JoWooD Productions.
“We’re proud that JoWooD chose to work with us in these territories, their line-up complement our offer to the consumers and will also add good value to our overall 2007 business.” said Patrick Melchior, Managing Director, Eidos France & Benelux.
No faults with Nintendo's Wii Wrist Strap
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Nintendo is not recalling any of the Wii wrist straps for its motion sensitive Wii Remote. There is no problem with the existing wrist strap as long as the Wii Remote is used sensibly and properly in accordance with the guidelines provided by Nintendo. All parts of the wrist strap have passed product testing and quality control.
The following tips are advised for safe play:
- Always wear the wrist strap while playing.
- Keep a firm grip on the Wii Remote at all times.
- Make sure people and objects are out of the range of movement before play begins.
- Players should keep at least three feet/ one meter from their televisions and dry their hands if they become sweaty or wet for any other reason.
- Remember that the Wii Remote is responsive enough to detect minor movements – so excessive and forceful actions are not necessary. Therefore we recommend not to use excessively rapid, violent or wide swinging motions while using the Wii Remote during game play.
- Consumers who break their wrist straps through excess usage or who are worried about their wrist strap should contact their nearest Nintendo Service Center voluntary exchange programme has been provided where consumers can replace wrist straps free of charge upon request.
STAR TREK: Legacy For Xbox 360 and Windows Ships
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Bethesda Softworks® today announced that the highly anticipated strategy/action game, STAR TREK: Legacy™ for the Xbox 360™ videogame and entertainment system from Microsoft is shipping to North American retail stores.
STAR TREK: Legacy for Windows was released last week and is currently on store shelves. The release of STAR TREK: Legacy completes Bethesda’s current lineup of STAR TREK titles, which includes the highly popular STAR TREK®: Encounters for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system and STAR TREK: Tactical Assault™ for the PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system and the Nintendo DS™.
STAR TREK: Legacy places you in the Admiral’s chair as you command your hand-selected fleet of starships into battle. Featuring striking space environments, detailed weapon effects, and full damage modeling, the single player Federation campaign and robust multiplayer modes span the entire STAR TREK Universe with over 80 ships and 4 playable races. While commanding Federation, Romulan, Gorn, or Borg fleets, this real-time combat game provides a strategic and tactical experience as you battle across vast sections of space.
STAR TREK: Legacy features the voices of all five actors who portrayed the original STAR TREK captains – William Shatner, Patrick Stewart, Scott Bakula, Avery Brooks, and Kate Mulgrew. The collaboration marks the first time the five actors have participated in a single STAR TREK project together. In addition, Bethesda Softworks also worked with acclaimed STAR TREK writer, Dorothy “D.C.” Fontana, and her writing partner, Derek Chester, to provide compelling and authentic storylines for STAR TREK: Legacy.
Gearbox Software To Develop Alien Title For Next-Gen Systems
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SEGA® of America Inc. and SEGA® Europe Ltd. today announced the signing of critically-acclaimed developer Gearbox Software to create a first-person shooter title based on the Alien film franchise for the next-generation systems, with license from Twentieth Century Fox Licensing & Merchandising. The agreement complements the recent announcement of an Alien RPG title for the next-generation systems to be developed by Obsidian Entertainment.
Gearbox Software is a leading developer in the first-person shooter genre, producing titles for the industry’s top franchises including Brothers in Arms, Halo and Half-Life. They consistently produce best-selling titles and have garnered numerous industry awards. Gearbox Software’s FPS Alien title will retain the atmospheric look and feel of the original films while leveraging next-generation technology to create an entirely new interactive Alien experience.
“Gearbox Software has a storied history of bringing innovative and compelling design to the FPS category,” said Simon Jeffery, President and COO, SEGA of America, Inc. “Combining their design talents with the intense action of the Alien franchise ensures that gamers will have an immersive and action-packed experience.”
“The Alien series has been a tremendous influence for myself, the people at Gearbox Software and the video games industry in general,” said Randy Pitchford, President of Gearbox Software. “The opportunity to work with the amazing people at SEGA and Fox to build a next generation video game in the Alien universe is one of those dream projects that is a perfect fit for our capability and our passion.”
Legend of the Dragon for Nintendo Wii announced
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The Game Factory today announces it is publishing the forthcoming 3D fighting title, Legend of the Dragon, for Nintendo’s Wii. The game is due for release in Q2 2007.
Legend of the Dragon for Nintendo Wii will be the publisher’s first release for the next-generation games machine, which enjoyed a record-breaking UK launch last weekend when it sold 105,000 consoles. The game is based on the hugely popular children’s TV show.
“We are delighted to be publishing for the Nintendo Wii,” said Henrik Mathiasen, Game Factory’s President. “While the Xbox 360 and Sony PlayStation 3 next-gen consoles have really captured the imagination of the more mature gamer, at Game Factory we’re really excited about the potential impact Nintendo’s Wii will have on the children’s market, as this is obviously our forte.”
Allen Bohbot, BKN Group CEO stated: “We have been thrilled with the success of Legend of the Dragon on the BBC and the subsequent launch of the first thirteen episodes on DVD by BKN Home Entertainment and have no doubt that this will provide the perfect backdrop against which to launch this excellent title on Wii. The success of the series in the UK has been emulated across Europe with the series sold widely to key television partners including Super RTL in Germany, Rai2 in Italy and TVE in Spain where toys and comics have just launched. The Game Factory have proved to be masters at translating the action, drama and excitement of Legend of the Dragon into brilliant videogames, and the Wii version will take this to the next level”
The Legend of the Dragon story begins against the backdrop of China’s sacred temples and just as a new Golden Dragon is selected. The Golden Dragon is the honourable title given to the chosen warrior set to fight the evil Zodiac Master, Woo Yin.
Each of the 12 Chinese zodiac signs has its own temple protected by a guardian; all guardians have individual powers unique to their zodiac symbol to help them defend their temple. The Zodiac Master – Woo Yin - plans to capture these powers; with them he will be unstoppable in his fight for the dark side to reign over China.
Ang Leung has been chosen as the new Golden Dragon over his twin sister Ling, but the surprise and humiliation of this decision is too much for Ling and she quickly defects to the dark side. In her new position as the Shadow Dragon, she will fight against her brother and old friends in a bid for revenge.
Gamers can choose to play as one of 19 characters, each with unique fighting techniques, strengths and movements. All characters wear magical wristbands that enable them to transform into mystical warriors. Once transformed, each character takes on the exact likenesses and superhuman powers of the zodiac creature they represent. An innovative real time spell casting system enhances the classic experience of a fighting arcade style of gameplay in addition to blending RPG elements through various available power-ups.
The videogame captures not only the compelling story of the cartoon series by using cell shading technology but also dramatic fighting scenes that will grip any gamer. It also mirrors a variety of locations from the cartoon series, using them as destructible combat areas, including Hong Kong Bay, The Dragon Dojo and The Great Wall of China.
More on Wario Ware: Smooth Moves for Wii !
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Wario Ware: Smooth Moves will have you and your friends competing in a series of wild and wonderful challenges as you use the Wii Remote in ways you would not have imagined possible! Wario Ware: Smooth Moves launches on Wii across Europe on 12th January 2007.
Sequel to the hugely popular Game Boy Advance and Nintendo DS games, Wario Ware: Smooth Moves is the latest in the Wario Ware franchise but this time it can make full use of the Wii Remote! Featuring over 200 fast paced and action-packed microgames, players are challenged to hone their reactions and use the Wii Remote in an array of wonderful and wacky ways. Twisting the Wii Remote this way and that, players must master positioning and movement of the controller to complete the challenges set. From the simple ‘Remote Control’ position to ‘The Elephant’ or ‘The Samurai’, manipulation of the Wii Remote is a must to complete one task and move on to the next. With the time available to complete the challenge getting shorter and shorter, accuracy is all important!
Each game only lasts a few seconds and requires the player to perform bizarre actions with the Wii Remote, such as sautéing vegetables, hula hooping (by holding the Wii Remote against your hip) and even slotting Grandma’s teeth into her mouth! Beware though, it’s not as easy as you may think! Humorous details fill the screen to simultaneously entertain and distract the player. Some recognisable faces will also make appearances from classic games such as Super Mario Bros, Nintendogs and Metroid Prime.
In single player mode, players travel around a map of Diamond City, selecting one of the characters to follow their wacky adventures. Each character will introduce the player to a new type of gameplay and a different family of microgames. The cast includes familiar faces from the Wario Ware series such as Wario and Mona, as well as new faces like Young Cricket the Kung-Fu Trainee. Once inside the microgame, players follow their chosen character’s story and complete a variety of mini tasks. If they are successful in fulfilling all the tasks, additional mini game adventures and multiplayer options featuring the Smooth Moves’ colourful cast are unlocked to enjoy.
Several multiplayer modes are available for selection in this game, allowing up to 12 people to play at once with just one controller. For example, in Survival mode up to 12 people can take up the Smooth Moves challenge where one wrong move eliminates them from the game - it’s truly the survival of the fittest! Go head to head in Star Nose where one player uses the Wii Remote and the other the Nunchuk to fly a nose-shaped spaceship along a corridor, making sure not to touch a single wall or obstacle. Five other exciting multiplayer games are available to play, including Darts, Lifeline, Balloon, Bomb and Bungee Buddies. No matter what your mood there will be a multiplayer game to entertain you and with 12 save slots available Wario Ware: Smooth Moves is the perfect title to play with your friends and family.
Wario Wae: Smooth Moves will be unleashed across Europe on 12th January 2007 at an estimated retail price of around 49 Euros (approximately £34 in the UK).
Excite Truck launches across Europe on Wii in February
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Next year break-neck speeds, treacherous roads and death-defying jumps can mean only one thing - Nintendo’s off-road racing fest Excite Truck is about to roar its way onto Wii. What’s more, forget complicated controls, Excite Truck’s innovative control mechanism makes it easy for anyone to pick up and play! Excite Truck launches on Wii across Europe on 16th February 2007.
As Nintendo’s first racing title for the innovative Wii console, Excite Truck sets the standard for motion-sensitive racing, a challenge that this game happily accepts. To control their trucks players hold the Wii Remote on its side and tilt it left and right like a steering wheel, allowing accurate and intuitive control. The skills required to be a champion don’t just stop at being able to throw the truck round corners and perform elaborate power slides. As players perform huge jumps they must tilt the Wii Remote forwards or backwards to align their vehicle’s wheels with the ground – a perfect landing will result in a vital speed boost.
In the game’s main Race Mode finishing first is not the only way to win! Clearing one stage will unlock the next, but as well as scoring points to finish a level by finishing first, players can top up their scores with points for drifting, jumping, smashing into other cars and off-roading through trees. There are numerous tracks to be unlocked ranging from snowy mountains to sandy beaches and plush jungles. Players can earn over 20 types of truck, by unlocking new ones as they progress through the game. Players can also customise their trucks by painting them with their favourite colours and it is possible to unlock special paint jobs for the various trucks by accomplishing certain achievements with one truck. When the paint jobs for all the trucks have been unlocked a special monster truck will be unlocked and available for you to enjoy.
Becoming a true master of Excite Truck isn’t an easy task as no two races are exactly the same. While racing, gamers will come across items, which change the course in real-time, causing mountains to grow and land to fall-away into the sea. The key to becoming a truly great racer is learning to respond to these dynamic changes without losing speed.
Fear not though! Perfecting your driving techniques in Excite Truck is not as mammoth a task as it seems, thanks to the game’s Challenge Mode, where players can take part in different challenges such as jumping through a sequence of rings, slaloming through gates and even crashing into other trucks to practice and polish the different techniques required.
Excite Truck is the first Wii game to make use of the console’s SD card slot, allowing users to customise the in-game sound. Players can select their favourite MP3s from a selection on their SD Card and replace the game’s music with those tracks. Whatever your taste in music Excite Truck will be right up your street.
Want to show off your new-found skills? Well never fear, Excite Truck features a multiplayer versus mode where two players can challenge each other in a one on one race around any of the unlocked tracks, using vehicles which the player has earned during the single player game.
Excite Truck will race its way across Europe on 16th February 2007 at an estimated retail price of around 49 Euros (approximately £34 in the UK).
Wii To Start The Mercury Meltdown Revolution
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Atari and Ignition Entertainment are today pleased to announce Mercury Meltdown Revolution, the popular franchise’s first foray on Wii.
Mercury Meltdown Revolution is a brain-teasing puzzle game that challenges players to immerse themselves in a colourful world of sci-fi machines, crazy characters, and bubbling test tubes. Using the Wii Remote, Players guide a liquid mercury ‘blob’, around traps, door switches, spikes, moving floors and other hazardous elements in order to complete the level.
“The unique control method associated with the Wii means that Mercury Meltdown Revolution will provide the ultimate Mercury experience,” said Peter Rollinson, Product Manager, Ignition Entertainment Ltd. ‘The mercury series was originally developed with a tilt controller in mind – the Wii has made this possible and the outcome provides the player with unprecedented control and accuracy.”
Mercury Meltdown Revolution Features:
- Full interaction using the Wii Remote tilt sensor
- Support for the Wii Classic and Nintendo GameCube™ controllers
- Advance rendering techniques for improved graphical quality
- 480p support
- Over 150+ challenging levels
- Hidden Labs to unlock.
- State of the art blob physics.
- Bonus features to unlock
Distributed by Atari in UK, France, Italy, Germany and the Nordic countries, Mercury Meltdown Revolution for the Wii is scheduled for release in Spring ‘07.
World Championship Poker 2 announced
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Oxygen Games is pleased to announce the launch of World Championship Poker 2. Set for release on PlayStation®2, PC DVD-ROM and PSP® System on the 23rd February 2007, the game has already launched in the US to massive critical acclaim and is the clear number one poker title based on aggregated reviews.
With a skill-based system of game play, career mode and multi-player options combined with the most advanced AI in any poker title to-date, World Championship Poker 2 will fast become an essential purchase in the UK and mainland Europe for any aspiring poker shark.
Jim Scott - CEO Oxygen Games enthused:
“Oxygen Games is delighted to announce World Championship Poker 2 as part of our ongoing strategy to deliver authentic and immersive entertainment to the mainstream consumer. Releasing the critically acclaimed World Championship Poker 2 clearly demonstrates the strength and positioning of the Oxygen Games brand”
World Championship Poker 2 is scheduled to ship on the 23rd February 2007 and will be available in PlayStation®2, PSP® System and PC formats.
SEGA Signs Obsidian Entertainment for NEXT-GEN Alien titles
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SEGA® of America Inc. and SEGA® Europe Ltd. today announced that Obsidian Entertainment will create a role-playing game based on the Alien film franchise with license from Twentieth Century Fox Licensing & Merchandising. This title will be developed for the next-generation systems and the PC.
Obsidian Entertainment draws upon their wealth of design knowledge creating successful games such as the best-selling Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic II: Sith Lords and the award-winning Neverwinter Nights 2 to bring the Alien franchise to role-playing gamers for the first time. The role playing game will build upon the distinctive look and feel of the original films while utilizing next-generation technology to create an entirely different and unique Alien experience.
"With Obsidian Entertainment's development pedigree, they were our first choice to bring the Alien franchise to the RPG universe," said Simon Jeffery, President and COO, SEGA of America, Inc. "They are the only developer for us that could effectively combine the Alien mythology with compelling RPG gameplay to create the ultimate Alien experience."
"We are thrilled to be working with the great production and publishing teams at SEGA to deliver the ultimate in-depth Alien experience to gamers worldwide," said Feargus Urquhart, CEO of Obsidian Entertainment. "Building an epic RPG with a license as heralded as the Alien franchise is truly a great honor."
New Xbox Live Arcade game: Assault Heroes available !
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Non-stop vehicular combat action at its best is coming to Xbox Live Arcade TODAY with “Assault Heroes.”
Developed specifically for Xbox Live Arcade, this fresh, innovative action combat game from Wanako Studios and published by Sierra Online, a division of Vivendi Games, will be available for download on Xbox Live Arcade for Xbox 360 beginning Wednesday, 13th December, after 0800.
In “Assault Heroes,” gamers take on the role of the only surviving member of an elite special forces unit searching for a secret underground lab. Gamers may take on the mission alone or fight side-by-side with a friend in the two-player cooperative mode. “Assault Heroes” puts players into a heavily armed 4X4, maneuverable speed boat or trusty military-issue footwear, blasting their way through enemy-infested territory while being assaulted by waves of formidable enemies with unrelenting attacks.
“Assault Heroes” will be available worldwide for 800 Microsoft Points.
GAME FEATURES:
Multiplayer co-op mode – Two players may play co-operatively online via Xbox Live or offline (same screen) with enhanced weapons and special attacks to encourage team-based campaigns.
Dynamic gameplay – Operate an armed 4X4, speed boat or simply fight on foot for a quick change of pace.
Arsenal of weapons – Equip characters with miniguns, flak cannons, flamethrowers, grenades and nukes to destroy everything in your path.
Realistic special effects –Destructible terrain and advanced physics engine provide a truly engaging Arcade experience.
Highly detailed graphics – Vehicles leave tracks in the sand, send parts flying when they explode, and leave smoke trails when taking damage.
Exhilarating Action-Packed Experience – Challenging and graphically compelling levels (including bonus sublevels) for fast-paced and addictive play.
Xbox Live Leaderboards
WHERE CAN I GET IT: Download “Assault Heroes” beginning on Wednesday, 13th December from 0800 GMT on Xbox Live Arcade.
SEGA'S Alien Syndrome announced for Wii and PSP
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SEGA® of America, Inc. and SEGA Europe, Ltd. today announced they will be releasing Alien Syndrome™, a fast-paced action-RPG set in a stunningly imaginative sci-fi universe.
Developed by Totally Games, Alien Syndrome™ will launch simultaneously for the Nintendo Wii™ system and PSP® (PlayStationPortable) system in summer 2007.
Alien Syndrome™ offers two fast-paced action-RPG modes – the dramatic and engaging single-player campaign, plus a hugely re-playable co-op multiplayer mode where up to four players can delve into the daring quest. Derived from the classic SEGA IP, Alien Syndrome™ for the Wii™ and PSP® plunges players into its easy to pick up and play action-RPG gameplay, while offering depth and a wealth of features and missions to challenge all gamers.
Alien Syndrome™ puts players in control of the strong and enigmatic heroine – Earth Command Trooper Aileen Harding – as she battles through a wide variety of environments including onboard infested spaceships and bizarre alien planets, taking on a mixture of fearsome aliens and colossal bosses. Players can choose from a wide selection of character specialties and skills to hone their character before embarking upon their sci-fi adventure. As they progress through the engrossing campaign, protected by different types of armour and using a variety of melee and ranged weaponry, players can improve their heroine’s statistics and discover powerful new abilities.
“Alien Syndrome™ is a great update of a classic franchise that has been designed to fit perfectly onto both the innovative Wii™ and the portable PSP®,” said Matt Woodley, Creative Director, SEGA Publishing Europe Ltd. “Alien Syndrome™ is the only fast-paced, sci-fi action –RPG for the Wii™ and PSP® and brilliantly blends arcade-style shooter gameplay with elements from RPGs.”
“Completely re-designed from the ground up for the PSP® and the Wii™, this new Alien Syndrome™ offers a refreshing blast-athon on a venerable classic,” said Larry Holland, President and Creative Director of Totally Games. “As well, it has allowed us to exercise our science fiction chops to the fullest to create a totally involving futuristic action-RPG game experience.”
Alien Syndrome™ offers 20 different weapons to use, ranging from flamethrowers, quad-barrelled lasers, nanobot swarms that dissolve enemies and incendiary grenades that unleash fire geysers from the ground. Each weapon offers different advantages and disadvantages, dependent upon how it is used and which speciality the player has chosen to adopt. With the sheer variety of weapons and abilities available to players, any number of combat strategies can be used to defeat hordes of more than 100 different alien enemies.
Alien Syndrome™ on the Wii™ will utilise the Wii™ Remote’s unique gyroscopic feature by enabling players a full range of motion when slashing through enemies, unloading devastation on bosses, or running and gunning through hallways. Players will also be able to access various new game modes and mechanisms. These extra features include using the Wii™ controllers to craft new items, to enhance existing items and character abilities and to hack into computer systems.
For gamers on the go, Alien Syndrome™ on the PSP® is wi-fi enabled so that up to four players can embark upon playing cooperatively through the alien infested levels in various multiplayer modes.
Alien Syndrome™ is developed by Totally Games and will be available for the Wii™ and PSP® system in summer 2007.
CSI: Crime Scene Investigation: Hard Evidence announced
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Today Ubisoft, one of the world’s largest video game publishers, and CBS Consumer Products announced the development of CSI: Crime Scene Investigation™: Hard Evidence, an all-new video game in the Crime Scene Investigation franchise. CSI: Hard Evidence will be based on the characters and storylines from the original hit CSI television series and will launch for the PC in spring 2007.
Developed by Telltale Games, CSI: Hard Evidence will continue the crime-solving experience of Ubisoft’s CSI video game series. Players will join Gil Grissom, Catherine Willows and the rest of the Las Vegas cast to help solve crimes using realistic techniques and lab equipment. CSI: Hard Evidence features forensic reconstructions and atmospheric crime scenes taken directly from the television show, including an all-new garage lab for analyzing large evidence such as cars and boats, improved evidence gathering, review and lab mini-games, and more areas to explore, resulting in longer play experiences.
"CSI: Hard Evidence is a whole new game that’s all about the evidence and even more like the show, giving fans the experience of being part of the CSI Vegas team," said Jay Cohen, vice president of publishing at Ubisoft. "We are continuing the CSI: Vegas experience by providing multiple methods of evidence recovery, crime reconstructions, and all-new high-tech forensic gadgets so fans can feel like real crime scene investigators."
CSI: Crime Scene Investigation is consistently one of the top-rated shows on network television and won the People’s Choice Award for Favorite Dramatic Series in 2003, 2004 and 2005 and is a People’s Choice Award nominee in 2006 as well. The CSI video game franchise, published by Ubisoft has sold approximately 2.4 million units worldwide since the first CSI title was relased in March 2003.
Bratz Ponyz canter into stores summer 2007 for DS
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The Game Factory today announces the European release of Bratz Ponyz™ for the Nintendo DS in Summer 2007, allowing gamers to combine a passion for fashion with every girl's love of horses.
Appealing to female gamers of all ages but specifically targeting the expanding girls market, the game sees you arrive on the Ponyz archipelago to participate in the prestigious Ponyz Town beauty pageant, 'Passion for Fashion'. The competition takes place over a year and gives you the chance to develop your artistic talent through a series of challenges based around fashion and beauty. In addition, between each challenge you are completely free to explore the gorgeous tropical islands, meet and befriend the inhabitants, and participate in a variety of activities.
The game allows you to
• Incarnate one of the 8 Bratz Ponyz™, or change Ponyz during the game
• Participate in the prestigious, 'Passion for Fashion' competition which will develop your 'passion' through numerous mini-games.
• Take care of your Ponyz hairstyle, make-up, jewellery and accessories, visit tattoo workshop, and develop your artistic talents.
• Shop in Ponyz Town and collect everything related to fashion.
• Freely explore the Ponyz archipelago and discover numerous surprises.
• Experience natural and intuitive game play, using the DS touchscreen feature.
• Play numerous mini-games integrated into the adventure.
• Compare your Ponyz and exchange objects with your friends via Wi Fi.
Bratz Ponyz™ is developed by NEKO Entertainment and published by The Game Factory
for Nintendo DS and is released across Europe in Summer 2007.
Wii Came, Wii Saw And Wii Conquered!
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Wii made its highly anticipated debut across Europe on Friday 8th December, with thousands of people desperate to get their hands on Nintendo’s new console. As the must-have product for the festive season Wii was an instant hit. Attracting vast crowds and selling out in stores all over Europe in just a matter of hours, a breathtaking 325,000 units were sold in the first two days making it the fastest selling home console in history.
Demand for Wii has been so great that shops all over Europe had large queues forming outside for up to three days before the launch and hundreds of shops opened their doors at midnight on launch day to allow gamers to get their hands on Wii. After just one weekend on sale, shops across Europe sold out of Wii consoles and daily shipments are now arriving across Europe to replenish stock.
The Legend of Zelda®: Twilight Princess, proved to be a favourite for avid gamers, with 240,000 copies snapped up over launch weekend in Europe, representing 74% of all hardware purchasers. Wii Play was also a big hit with over 50% of people buying the game (which includes a Wii Remote) along with their Wii console.
Laurent Fischer, Marketing Director for Nintendo Europe commented:
“Wii has become an overnight success in Europe with people of all ages rushing out to get their hands on the console. Even at this early stage it is clear that Wii is delivering on its promise to expand the gaming market, with a uniquely diverse audience all keen to experience the sensation for themselves.
For those who were unable to buy Wii during the launch weekend, rest assured more stock is already on its way and we are doing everything possible to ensure that a steady supply of Wii units is shipped to stores across Europe throughout December and into 2007.”
Wii mania in Europe follows the phenomenal success of Nintendo’s console in the Americas and Japan, where over a million units have been sold in just three weeks. In the Americas, where the console launched on the 19th of November, 600,000 consoles were sold in the first 8 days from launch. The Japanese launch saw similar success with around 400,000 units being shipped to stores for launch day and selling out during the first morning on sale. After just a few days of sales in Europe the Wii seems to be achieving similar success.
While Wii enjoyed a hugely successful launch Nintendo DS also had a record-breaking week, with 515,000 units sold across Europe last week, which is not only the highest weeks sales since the console’s launch but also the most any console across all formats has ever sold in a week! Nintendo’s handheld phenomenon has taken Europe by storm since its release in March 2005, with over 8.5 million consoles now sold across Europe.
Age of Conan: Hyborian Adventures' approved for Xbox 360
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Funcom announces that ‘Age of Conan’ is approved for Microsoft’s Xbox 360 console. The announcement means that the highly anticipated Massively Multiplayer Online game (MMO) has received the green light from Microsoft, and that Funcom can start official development of an Xbox 360 version of the game.
“This is a groundbreaking leap forward for Funcom. The fact that we now get the chance to develop ‘Age of Conan’ for the Xbox 360 means access to a potentially whole new and large MMO market,” said Trond Arne Aas, CEO of Funcom. “The fast-paced and innovative combat system in ‘Age of Conan’ will suit the demanding console audience perfect. We believe the amazing online capabilities of Xbox 360 will be a great match for MMOs like ‘Age of Conan’, and as one of a handful officially approved MMO games for the console we aim to create a unique, brutal and powerful online gaming experience.”
The Windows version of ‘Age of Conan: Hyborian Adventures’ is a Showcase title for Windows Vista, and the game won ‘Best MMO of E3’ awards from IGN, GameSpot, GameSpy and Yahoo. The game was a runner-up to the ‘Most Innovative Game of Show’ E3 award from Gamespot, and PC Gamer US named it as one of their top 10 most anticipated PC games. More information, screenshots, newsletter sign-up, forums and a welcoming community portal can be found on the official website www.ageofconan.com .
Information about publisher, release date and potential console specific features will be revealed at a later stage as Funcom starts production of the Xbox 360 version of ‘Age of Conan’.
Puzzler Fruitfall Launches On Big Fish Games
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SoGoPlay™ - The casual gaming company today announced that casual gaming hit, FruitFall™ is available on the Big Fish Games network.
FruitFall is a 'revolutionary' new puzzle game that is guaranteed to keep you coming back for just one more try. It is a simple but addictive puzzle game that has already enjoyed tremendous success with tens of thousands of players of all ages around the world.
The aim of the game is to connect three fruits of the same kind to make them disappear. Simply use the mouse or arrow keys to rotate the game screen clockwise or anti-clockwise and gravity will cause the fruit to fall. Sounds simple? It is!
FruitFall is available as a downloadable demo, with one hour's free play, and can be upgraded to a deluxe version which includes; 4 new playable worlds, 50 levels, hi-resolution graphics, a full screen mode and daily, weekly and all-time online hi-scores.
Head of Sales, Barry White commented, "We're delighted to have Big Fish Games as one of our key distribution partners. FruitFall is the perfect casual game and will appeal to almost everyone; this combined with the marketing power of Big Fish Games will help to ensure that FruitFall further enhances the successes already enjoyed in this market".
Nathaniel Webb, Director of Game Operations for Big Fish Games added, "Big Fish Games is extremely excited to be partnering with SoGoPlay. Our customers are always clamoring for new engaging content and that's exactly what SoGoPlay brings to the table with Fruit Fall."
FruitFall is available to download from the SoGoPlay portal www.sogoplay.com and also Big Fish Games www.bigfishgames.com
European Release Of First Next-Gen Dragon Ball Z
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Atari Europe today announced that Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 2 for Wii is scheduled for European release in March 2007 with brand new content.
Combining action, fighting and light role-playing elements, Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 2 will send players battling their way through a rich story mode spanning the entire Dragon Ball, Dragon Ball Z, and Dragon Ball GT series. Published by NAMCO BANDAI Games Europe and developed by Spike, Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 2 is scheduled for European release in March 2007.
Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 2 takes the series’ acrobatic and intense 3D combination of flying and fighting to a whole new level of nail-biting excitement, with over 100 playable characters, 15 vast and vibrant 3D destructible environments, and nine different game modes, including single and multiplayer battles allowing players to do battle with friends. In addition, the European game boasts six extra new characters and a new battle arena not present in the previously released US version.
The innovative Nunchuk controller is perfectly suited to Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 2 and the game’s frenetic fighting action, allowing gamers to get physical, mimicking the characters’ moves to pull off devastating attacks and combos.
In addition to the unprecedented number of characters, wide selection of massive 3D destructible environments and abundance of game modes, Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 2 features in-game transformations, which players can trigger in real-time, making battles even more dramatic and exciting than ever before. Using the Nunchuk, players will be able to mimic signature moves as they are performed in the Dragon Ball Z animated series, such as Goku®’s Kamehameha, moving both hands to execute this devastating energy attack.
Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 2 for Wii is scheduled for release across Europe in March 2007.
Tamagotchi Connection: Corner Shop 2 now available
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Atari today announced the forthcoming European release of NAMCO BANDAI Games’ Tamagotchi Connexion: Corner Shop 2.
Based on the wildly popular Tamagotchi® Connexion® virtual pet toy, aspiring shop keepers can open a variety of shops in which they tend to their Tamagotchi customers’ needs by successfully completing tasks in a variety of playful mini-games. Mametchi, Memetchi, and Kuchipatchi return in this sequel to help players create a shopping fantasyland populated by more than 100 different humorously endearing Tamagotchi friends. Tamagotchi Connexion: Corner Shop 2 for Nintendo DS™ is scheduled for release across Europe in March 2007.
In Tamagotchi Connexion: Corner Shop 2, shop owners must keep their bizarrely adorable Tamagotchi partners happy by earning “Gotchi points” through performing mini-game tasks for the customers. Gotchi points can be used to clothe, feed, and care for your Tamagotchi partners. As more points are collected, new types of shops for players to open will become unlocked. Shops not seen in the original such as the Bowling Alley and Sushi Bar will be available, as well as upgrades to old favourites like the Concert Hall where players can sing along to the music with the DS microphone.
Catering to the needs of your customers will be essential in keeping the Tamagotchi happy in Tamagotchi Connexion: Corner Shop 2. The five different happiness levels will determine the dialogue that occurs between the player and their Tamagotchi partner, and nobody likes a grumpy Tamagotchi!
XNA Game Studio Express and XNA Creators Club
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Your World. Your Game.
With today’s release of Microsoft® XNA™ Game Studio Express and the launch of the XNA Creators Club, this phrase has never been more true.
Based on the easy-to-use Visual C#® 2005 Express Edition and Microsoft .NET Compact Framework, XNA Game Studio Express opens up the world of game development to the masses and is now available for free to anyone with a Windows® XP-based PC at http://www.msdn.com/XNA.
With the release of XNA Game Studio Express, Microsoft Corp. unveiled the XNA Creators Club, opening up video game development to untapped creative minds, enabling anyone to affordably build and play amazing game ideas on Xbox 360™ systems for the first time ever.
The XNA Creators Club is available on Xbox Live® Marketplace for £30.00 for a four-month subscription, or £65.00 for an annual subscription. Both subscriptions provide aspiring game developers with access to thousands of game assets from Microsoft and key supporters such as Turbo Squid Inc., as well as white papers, specialised starter kits, samples and technical product support to help turn Your World, Your Game into a reality.
“The XNA Creators Club is really the first of its kind — an opportunity to join a community of other developers who are empowered to bring their game ideas to life on a next-generation console system,” said Chris Satchell, general manager of the Game Developer Group at Microsoft. “When it comes to encouraging development on XNA Game Studio Express and through the XNA Creators Club, the limits are truly endless. What users will see today is just the beginning of the plans we have to revolutionize game development one creative game idea at a time.”
Alien franchise coming to next-gen systems by SEGA
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SEGA® of America Inc., SEGA® Europe Ltd. and Twentieth Century Fox Licensing & Merchandising today announced a worldwide exclusive agreement to bring game content based on the critically-acclaimed Alien film franchise to next-generation gaming systems.
Multiple titles, including a first-person shooter and a role playing game, are currently in pre-production with the first to be released in 2009. Securing the rights to produce Alien titles reinforces SEGA’s strategy of combining premium licensed content with original IP to aggressively expand its global business.
“As a direct result of Fox’s efforts over the past 27 years, Alien has become one of the most recognised franchises in the motion picture industry,” said Simon Jeffery, President and Chief Operating Officer, SEGA of America, Inc. “SEGA will utilise the power of next-gen systems to blend the time-honoured story with leading edge design technology to deliver a riveting and suspenseful gameplay experience.”
“Alien is one of those special franchises that has continued to thrive in licensing long after it has left theaters. The L & M program has been very successful over the years because we have partnered with the best companies in each category and created appealing products that become must-haves for the extremely loyal Alien fans.” added Elie Dekel, Executive Vice President, Fox Licensing & Merchandising. “We look forward to partnering with SEGA, a known leader in the gaming industry, to expand the program to the next generation gaming systems and bring the franchise to life with the newest technology and gameplay.”
Four New Classic Games Announced For Wii Shop Channel
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Later today Nintendo will add four new classic games to the popular Wii™ video game system's Wii Shop Channel. The four new titles will be added at 9 a.m. Pacific time. Nintendo will add new games to the channel every Monday.
Wii owners with a high-speed Internet connection can redeem Wii Points to download the games. Wii Points can be purchased in the Wii Shop Channel or at retail outlets. This week's new games are:
Ice Hockey (NES®, 1-2 players, 500 Wii Points): Ice Hockey is hard-hitting, fast-action competition that re-creates all the excitement of the sport from faceoffs to penalty shots. Players pass the puck and shoot to score while using defensive tactics, including fake shots and ice brawls to crush adversaries. It's up to the player to find the best strategy to win the game – finesse or power.
Gunstar Heroes™ (Sega Genesis, 1-2 players, 800 Wii Points): The Gunstar 9 planet was peaceful for many years until the vicious dictator, Colonel Red, kidnapped the Gunstar twins' older brother and used mind control to make him his slave. Players face many different enemies and bosses while battling to stop the dictator from unleashing "Golden Silver the Destructor" with apocalyptic consequences.
Dr. Robotnik's Mean Bean Machine™ (Sega Genesis, 1-2 players, 800 Wii Points):
Dr. Robotnik is stamping out music and fun in Mobius with his giant robotizing Mean Bean Steaming Machine. Before he turns all the citizens of Beanville into robots, players must save the day by gathering up beans in matching colors and defeating Robotnik's guards.
Alien Crush™ (TurboGrafx16, 1 player, 600 Wii Points): Alien Crush is a fan-favorite pinball game that features a sinister sci-fi theme. Play through a two-level playing field that comes to life with pulsating alien creatures. Rack up a high enough score, clear the board of these extraterrestrials and discover secret bonus stages. The game features realistic pinball action, complete with a tilt function and two selectable soundtracks. Do you have what it takes to fight back against this alien infestation?
Wii Strikes Up 50,000 Sales In 12 Hours
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Within just 12 hours of going on sale, the much anticipated launch of the Nintendo Wii console has reached new heights of success with 50,000 units sold. The staggering figure translates to one unit sold throughout the UK every second, since the very first sale at the star-studded midnight store opening at HMV on London’s Oxford Street.
David Yarnton, General Manager, Nintendo UK says; “We are delighted with the amazing response to Wii and that people of all ages and gaming experience are embracing the way that we are turning the industry on its head. With so many units sold it is great to see that people will be enjoying Wii with their families this Christmas. We are doing everything we can do to meet demand throughout Christmas and the New Year period.”
Even in Belgium and probably in most other countries as well, Nintendo's Wii console was even after one day "hard to find" ! Most stores had already sold most of their stock on the first launch day ! Impressive!
Samurai Warriors 2: Empires announced for North America
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KOEI, recognized worldwide as the premier brand of strategy and action games, today announced a North American ship date of February 27, 2007 for SAMURAI WARRIORS®2 EMPIRES.
The Tactical Action game set in Feudal Japan will be available for both the Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system.
About SAMURAI WARRIORS 2 EMPIRES
SAMURAI WARRIORS 2 EMPIRES combines the most exciting aspects of Action, Fighting and Strategy games. At the start of the game Feudal Japan is divided into warring states and it is up to the player to resurrect a nation using equal amounts of strategy and strength! The game’s ultimate goal is to unite Japan’s 25 regions into a single nation under one ruler. Prior to each battle, the player will meet with their war council to discuss military and political affairs; then it’s time for combat.
SAMURAI WARRIORS 2 EMPIRES is the first in KOEI’s successful line of “Empires” games to be set in Japan. Accordingly, the game’s deck of 90 policy cards, used to issue military commands and impose political policies, is boosted by 50 new cards inspired by Japanese history, while all-new formation cards are based on historically-authentic samurai attack formations.
Special events in the game chronicle major turning points in Japan’s history including “The Honnôji Incident” where the powerful warlord Oda Nobunaga, met his demise, and “The Battle of Kawanakajima,” considered the largest and most prolonged encounter of the Warring States era.
Key product features include vicious multi-Musou attacks with up to four officers, 5 “Unification” scenarios plus 6 “Regional” scenarios, over 400 playable characters to choose from, a create your own warrior mode, as well as 2-player co-op play.
Developed by KOEI’s award-winning internal team, Omega Force, SAMURAI WARRIORS 2 EMPIRES is not yet rated by the ESRB. SAMURAI WARRIORS 2 EMPIRES for Xbox 360 is compatible with 480p and 720p HDTV, and features in game Dolby® Digital audio.
Ubisoft Unveils Tom Clancy's Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter 2
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Today Ubisoft, one of the world’s largest video game publishers, announced that Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter™ 2, the next installment in the popular squad-based action franchise, is currently in development for the Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, the PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system, the PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system and Windows® PC.
Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter™ 2 is being developed by the award-winning teams that created the original Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter™ in Ubisoft’s Paris and Red Storm Studios. Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter™ 2 is scheduled for worldwide release in Spring 2007.
“Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter set the standard for what we know as the next-generation gaming experience,” said Laurent Detoc, president of Ubisoft North America. “With Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter 2, Ubisoft is taking all the successful elements in the original to an unparalleled level of quality – the sophisticated technology, weaponry, graphics, story and online gameplay will heighten the intensity and bring gamers an even more amazing experience.”
Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter received critical acclaim and quickly became one of the best-selling games on Xbox 360 and one of the most played games on the Xbox Live® online gaming service. Recently, the prestigious British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) awarded Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter with “Best Game of the Year” and “Technical Achievement” honors.
Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter 2 builds off of the events in the first game and places gamers in control of the U.S. military’s elite fighting unit, the Ghosts. In the year 2014, the rising conflict between Mexican loyalists and insurgent rebel forces has thrown Mexico into full-scale civil war. Under the command of Captain Scott Mitchell, the Ghosts are called upon to face an imminent threat to the United States. The fate of two countries now lies in the hands of the Ghosts as they fend off an attack on U.S. soil. Equipped with the most cutting-edge weaponry and technology, the Ghosts must battle on both sides of the border to neutralize the escalating rebel threat.
European Wii Launch day is ... TODAY !!
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In case you have been living under a rock for a couple of months, you might want to know that Nintendo's new "next-gen" console, the "Wii" is NOW (yes today!) available in ALL European stores!
Be quick though since reports are that most of the stores are already sold out!
PlayDevil.com will definitely cover the Wii and most of its launch games but like we reported before, we just need to wait a couple of weeks before our own Wii console from Nintendo is delivered.
Think it's gonna be though Christmas for us without Wii.
Blaze Accessories for Nintendo Wii
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It looks like the Wii frenzy has only just begun for us Europeans, no sooner are the pavements cleared of dedicated Wii campers, and the opportunity to take a virtual pasting from Ricky Hatton on Oxford Street have passed, and we’re already looking for ways of improving our gaming experience on our fascinating little motion driven babies…
But don’t fear, those Xploder guys are coming to the rescue with a range of Blaze accessories including a high quality Component Cable and some Nunchuck/Wiimote Silicon Skins.
Due to ship on the 18th, you’ve gotta get your hands on these things!
Compliment with component!
Wii is definitely next generation interactive gaming at it’s best, and by adding the Blaze Component Cable to your set-up you’ll dramatically enhance the picture and sound quality. These high quality cables have gold-plated connections, so they’ll satisfy even the keenest eyed and eared gamers out there.
Keep your hands on your Nunchucks!
Not only do they protect your controller from dirt, knocks and scratches, they’ll also provide a better grip on those slippery little Wiimotes, so you’ve got less chance of putting them through the screen of your brand new HDTV set! Manufactured from durable soft silicon the Silicon Skins come in a variety of colours so you and your friends can personalise your controllers for the ultimate multi-player experience!
Two new DS reviews online in archive
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Today, we have published two new reviews for the Nintendo DS and while they are already out for some time, we decided to put them straight in our "Review Archive".
The following reviews can now be read:
- Resident Evil: Deadly Silence
and
- Meteos
In a few days we'll update our DS archive again with two other reviews and also new content is coming up!
Trioncube Blasts Onto The Nintendo DS
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Leading video games publisher and developer NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc. announces Trioncube™, an addictive new puzzle game for the Nintendo DS™.
Trioncube is a challenging pu