[Category :
] [Posted by Bjorn on Monday, February 28 2005 @ 17:12 CET]Splinter Cell Chaos Theory demo!
[Category :
The official single-player PC demo for Tom Clancy’s Splinter Cell Chaos Theory™ is now available for download. Be among the first to check out a level from this Spring’s most highly-anticipated title – few weeks before the game hits shelves end of March. You can find the demo at all of your favorite download spots and on www.splintercell.com . You will also find on the official website the complete video walkthrough of the Lighthouse level.
The demo features the Lighthouse map, the first level of the game, where Sam Fisher must investigate the kidnapping of an American citizen with some very sensitive – and valuable – intelligence. In addition to Sam’s new moves, weapons, and ability to operate closer to the enemy than ever before, players will enjoy complete immersion into the shadowy world of a Third Echelon operative – be sure to take a moment to marvel at the industry-leading features in terms of graphics and sound (details follow below). Stealth-action gaming doesn’t get any better than this, so download the demo today and get busy saving the world.
New material arrived @ PlayDevil.com
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Monday, February 28 2005 @ 17:05 CET]
We are happy to announce that we received some new 'material (games, hardware) in our PlayDevil.com office!
Here are the new games that we'll be working on soon:
- Immortal Cities: Children of the Nile (pc)
- Project Zero II (x-box)
- Dead or Alive 2 Ultimate (x-box)
Expect also some new games from publisher and developer Konami since we are now in contact with their German office.
Regarding hardware, besides the Logic 3 and Plextor equipment that we're working on, we also received the following:
- X-Beam from Gyrotwister (A must for gamers, musicians etc).
More info soon in our review and hardware section!
Free gift for Football Manager fans!
[Category :
Fans of Football Manager 2005 are about to receive an unexpected gift in the form of a free data update, which will be made available by Sports Interactive and SEGA Europe on Wednesday, March 2nd.
The data update, which will be available free-of-charge through a variety of outlets, brings the game right up to date by including all changes in personnel that have occurred in the world of football since the game's initial release on November 4th 2004 and the closure of the recent transfer window on January 31st (a total of more than 160,000 changes of player, coaching and managerial staff).
“We are very happy to offer our fans this 'thank you' in recognition of the support that they have shown to us and it's great that SEGA has given us the green light to do it," says Miles Jacobson, Managing Director of Sports Interactive. “Football Manager has become the game of choice for all football fans because of the level of realism that it offers its players and this update can only enhance the experience."
The update will be available from March 2nd as a free download from the SI and SEGA websites (www.sigames.com or www.sega-europe.com) and from a variety of the most popular gaming websites. The update will also be made available to the publishers of all relevant computer and video games magazines for free distribution on cover-mounted media. The update will be available in a number of forms, combined with the latest (and final) FM 2005 patch in standard, RAR and Torrent format (the patch will also be available as standalone file for those who do not want the update).
Football Manager 2005 is also to be re-mastered, so that all stock manufactured from this point forward will include the new database and fully-updated code.
Black Bean delivers The Day After to Europe
[Category :
Black Bean and 1C Company are proud to present a totally new gaming experience, developed in Russia by G5 Software; The Day After is the first game to successfully combine the realism of Turn Based Strategy with the dynamics of Real Time Strategy. This title introduces a special operative mode, which enhances the strategic decision making process, thus taking it to a new level and allowing the player to carefully plan his actions in turn based mode then implement them on the battlefield.
The game transports you to the frontline; with your maps laid out you can strategically place your forces, group them and position them for attack. In characteristic turn based strategy mode, each turn is limited adding an extra touch of realism to the experience. Non-critical elements like optional missions add to the depth of game play.
The Day After offers a deeply satisfying strategy experience with a great deal of combat logistics involved. The player needs to consider many various factors like available fuel resources, positioning of close-by enemy airfields and the remaining amount of moves in order to complete missions successfully.
The Day After will be released in France, UK, Italy, Spain and Germany in May 2005 in a Limited Edition box featuring a 80 page full colour manual and a multimedia encyclopaedia that will describe all the vehicles included in the game.
Brothers In Arms: Road To Hill 30 Goes Gold
[Category :
Ubisoft, one of the world's top game publishers, and acclaimed developer Gearbox Software, today announced that Brothers in Arms: Road to Hill 30TM, the highly-anticipated World War II game, has gone gold and will soon be on store shelves. With its breakthrough squad-based combat and unprecedented authenticity, Brothers in Arms: Road to Hill 30 is poised to revolutionize the WWII genre when it ships on the Xbox® video game system March 1. Both the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system and PC versions will be shipping to stores shortly after. The pre-order campaign is currently under way for the title at the manufacturer's suggested retail price of $49.99.
Created by Gearbox Software, Brothers in Arms: Road to Hill 30 is the most authentic WWII shooter ever, earning endorsements from the Veterans of Foreign Wars Foundation and the Patton Museum. Brothers in Arms: Road to Hill 30 is based on the true story of the 101st Airborne paratroopers who led the D-Day invasion and will immerse gamers in the gritty, uncensored and emotionally-charged side of war. The game's missions have been crafted using after action reports, aerial reconnaissance images, and eye-witness accounts, much of which is included in over five hours of bonus extras. Players of all skill levels can battle their way through twenty epic single player chapters or go online and challenge their friends with ten competitive and innovative multiplyer missions.
Atari Acquires Rights To 'Fahrenheit' Video Game
[Category :
Survival makes for strange bedfellows in Atari's new paranormal thriller, Fahrenheit, being developed by Quantic Dream for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, Xbox® video game system from Microsoft and personal computer. Set in near future New York City, Fahrenheit tells the story of a man whose destiny is irrevocably altered when he unwillingly commits a brutal murder and to find the truth must partner with the woman assigned to bring him to justice.
"Fahrenheit represents a real milestone in the development of video gaming and the adventure genre, with genuinely innovative design and a chilling atmosphere to match that of some of the most successful big screen psychological thrillers," said Martin Spiess, Senior Vice President of Marketing, Atari Europe. "Quantic Dream have created a game where the tension seeps from the screen into the mind, guaranteeing no shortage of emotional investment from the player. A powerful connection is created between the player and the action on-screen, where every turn and every micro-decision has serious consequences."
In Fahrenheit, New York City is stunned by a series of mysterious murders, all following the same pattern: ordinary people are killing absolute strangers in public areas. Lucas Kane becomes another one of these murderers when he suddenly kills a stranger in a men's washroom. Covered in blood, Lucas regains consciousness with no recollection as to why he committed the murder. Hunted by police, Lucas must solve the mystery before being caught and incarcerated for life.
A free-flowing game during which players can assume the role of multiple characters and experience the game from multiple viewpoints, Fahrenheit allows players' actions to affect the plot by offering a scenario driven interactive experience. Through motion picture techniques such as actor direction, multi-camera views, motion tracking and a contextual music score, players find themselves intimately immersed in the game.
Developed by Quantic Dream for the PlayStation2, Xbox and PC, Fahrenheit is scheduled for release in September 2005. More information about the game can be found online at www.fahrenheitgame.com.
New content available for MechAssault 2: Lone Wolf
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Friday, February 25 2005 @ 23:10 CET]
MechAssault 2: Lone Wolf Downloadable Content Now Available
Microsoft Game Studios today announced that new content for MechAssault 2: Lone Wolf, the popular 'Mech combat game for Xbox®, is now available for download via Xbox LiveTM. This round of free content consists of two maps that were originally featured in the Limited Edition; each playable via System Link, split-screen and Xbox Live. The first map, Mountain High, supports five game types: Team Destruction, Check It, Snatch it, Base War and Grinder. The second map, Troubled Waters, is playable in multiplayer Destruction mode and can also be played by either one or two gamers in the offline Grinder mode.
More information about MechAssault 2: Lone Wolf and the new downloadable maps is available at http://www.mechassault2.com.
In-game soundtracks for Fifa Street, Sports Fight Night Rnd 2
[Category :
Electronic Arts (NASDAQ: ERTS) today revealed the hard-hitting in-game song lists for FIFA Street and EA SPORTSTM FIGHT NIGHT ROUND 2 that will herald in the sound of football and boxing this Spring. EA SPORTSTM continues to push the musical envelope with cutting-edge tracks from breaking bands Hot Hot Heat, Louis XIV, the Bravery and hip hop artists such as Fabolous, Yung Wun and Pit Bull among others. Each song has been hand-selected by EATM TRAX - the ground-breaking music initiative that EA debuted in 2001 - to fit with the adrenaline-pumping action of its sport.
Cold Fear goes Gold
[Category :
Ubisoft, one of the world's largest video game publishers, today announces that Cold Fear™ has reached gold master status for the Xbox® and PlayStation® 2 and is expected to arrive on store shelves by the 3rd of March in Europe. Developed by Darkworks, Cold Fear offers a very unique blend of hit genres mixing both action and horror and delivers an intense, exciting gaming experience.
Players step into the role of Tom Hansen, a U.S. Coast Guard who is sent to board a drifting Russian whaling ship in the middle of a howling storm on the Bering Sea. He arrives only to discover that terrifying surprises await him on the bloodstained decks of the constantly rocking, shifting vessel. Set in a volatile, dynamic environment, players will find themselves overwhelmed by fear as they engage in intense combat with intelligent enemies. Even the toughest competitor will be challenged to endure the heart-stopping terror that is Cold Fear.
Nintendo Unveils Strong Q2 2005 Game Line-Up!
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Thursday, February 24 2005 @ 8:39 CET]
Nintendo is set to release a strong software line up for the second quarter of 2005, with games such as Star Fox Assault for Nintendo GameCube, WarioWare Twisted! for the Game Boy Advance and Yoshi Touch and Go for the Nintendo DS among the selection of fantastic titles on offer. With all these games to choose from you won't want to leave the house until summer!
Nintendo GameCube
Title - Release Date
Baten Kaitos - 1 April 2005
Viewtiful Joe 2 (Capcom) - 1 April 2005
Star Fox Assault - 29 April 2005
Donkey Konga 2:Hit Song Parade (temporary title) - 3 June 2005
Batman Begins (EA) - June 2005
Madagascar (Activision) - June 2005
Killer 7 (Capcom) - 27 June 2005
Medal of Honor 4 (EA) - Q2 2005
Game Boy Advance SP
Title - Release Date
Yoshi's Universal Gravitation (Nintendo) - 22 April 2005
KINGDOM OF HEARTS CHAIN OF MEMORIES (Square/Enix) - 6 May 2005
Herby Fully Loaded (Disney / Buena Vista Games) - May 2005
Care Bears (Game Factory/K.E. Media) - May 2005
Koala Brothers (Game Factory/K.E. Media) - May 2005
Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith (Ubisoft) - May 2005
WarioWare Twisted! (Nintendo) - 3 June 2005
Mario Party Advance (Nintendo) - 24 June 2005
Batman Begins (EA) - June 2005
Madagascar (Activision) - June 2005
Nintendo DS
Title - Release Date
Yoshi Touch & Go (Nintendo) - 6 May 2005
Need for Speed Underground 2 (EA) - 29 April 2005
Cocoto Card Racer (Neko) - April 2005
Space Invadors Revolution (Marvelous/Rising Star Games) - April 2005
Ultimate Brain games (Telegames) - May 2005
Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith (Ubisoft) - May 2005
Madagascar (Activision) - June 2005
Ultimate Card games (Telegames) - June 2005
Pac-Pix (NAMCO) - Q2 2005
2K Games To Distribute Ford Racing 3 In North America
[Category :
2K Games, a publishing label of Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc., today announced that it has signed an agreement with Empire Interactive to distribute Ford Racing 3 for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, Xbox® video game system from Microsoft, and PC in North America. The first two titles of the Ford Racing series, which were also distributed by Take-Two, sold over 1 million units in North America.
Ford Racing 3 features 55 beautifully detailed Ford automobiles, including Ford GTs, Thunderbirds, concept and SVT vehicles, Mustangs and trucks; 26 detailed tracks with interactive scenery; 11 different race types and support for online play on Xbox Live; LAN and online play for PC and head-to-head split screen on PS2 and Xbox.
Ford Racing 3 will be released in North America in March 2005 for a suggested retail price of $14.99. Ford Racing 3 is developed by Empire Interactive under license by Ford Motor Company. For more information please visit its official web site at http://www.fordracing3.com/.
Total Overdose
[Category :
SCi games has released more information about their upcoming game, which will be available this summer, "Total Overdose".
Here are the goods:
The year is 1989 and deep in the sweltering heat of the Mayan jungle, camouflaged among the Inca ruins, Ernesto Cruz catches his breath for a few moments and admires his handiwork, bodies strewn across the temple ruins, as he makes a last gasp effort to board a DEA plane to take him to safety. He never made it home, the tragic victim of an alleged ‘OVERDOSE’.
Two weeks ago Ernesto’s son, Ramiro Cruz is hauled out of jail by the DEA to be told his twin brother, Tommy, works for them as an undercover agent and has some new information about their father’s death. But, Tommy has had an accident with a hand grenade and now Ramiro must take his brother’s place in an undercover operation closing in on the ruthless drug cartel overlord Papa Muerte.
Through stylized Mexican neighbourhoods and jungle hide-outs to the swanky Californian coast; TOTAL OVERDOSE is an over-the-top, adrenalin-fuelled, free-style action, 3rd person cinematic adventure with a strong whiff of tequila.
Crash cars, steal hats, shoot bad guys with style, jump bikes, fight in the street, meet girls, shoot more bad guys, find your fathers killer, hot-wire tractors, eat Burritos, catch planes, drink tequila; the Mexican heat can make people do the strangest things.
Coming summer 2005
GMX announces F/A-18: Operation Desert Storm
[Category :
GMX Media are today announcing a new flight simulation title for March 2005 - F/A-18: Operation Desert Storm for PC CD-ROM .
Jump into the cockpit of one of the world’s most deadly fighting machines, the F/A-18 Hornet and fly the most prolific carrier based aircraft in the Coalition arsenal. Load up with precision guided munitions and bring your sites to bear on the Iraqi armed forces. Fly above a thousand square miles of stunningly realistic satellite image based terrain and see through the eyes of pilots that navigated during Operation Desert Storm.
“F/A-18: Operation Desert Storm puts you right in the pilot seat of one of the most combat hardened aircraft in existence today”, quoted Eugene Perry, COO for GMX Media. “The game is an assault on the senses that will appeal to both fans of arcade action and strategic flight simulator titles.”
Game Features
· Beautiful and realistic satellite image-based terrain covering over 1000 square miles of Iraq, Kuwait, Iran and the Persian Gulf.
· Realistic simulation of the F/A-18 Hornet aircraft flight dynamics and instrumentation.
· Realistic Carrier operations including launches and landing using the Meatball and Instrument landing system.
· Sophisticated enemy pilot and SAM site operator artificial intelligence.
· Use one of many preset armament loads for specialized missions or create your own.
· Multiplayer via the internet or LAN.
Release Date: March 2005
PlayDevil reviews Donkey Konga (GC)
[Category :
Today we have placed the review of Nintendo's Bongo game, Donkey Konga.
Here's a snip from the review:Over the past years we have seen many dancing games. We played Samba de Amigo on Sega's Dreamcast, Dance Dance Revolution on PS2 and many others on different systems.
The addition of an interactive controller is nice and entertaining but it all depends if the game is good made or not. What I mean with good made is "did the developer create an unique dancing music game and was the console used at maximum capacity". In order to compete with other dancing games this was a must.
Read the full review of Donkey Konga.
Domination Goes Gold for the UK
[Category :
DreamCatcher Games today announced its strategy game, Domination, has gone gold for Windows® in North America and in the United Kingdom. Localised versions will be available shortly for the French, German, Spanish and Italian markets.
Domination features a renewed global conflict between the Free Nations Union and the Phantom League on distant planets, including sci-fi land, sea and air warfare at a grand-strategy level. The game inherits all of the remarkable features of the original game and deepens the Massive Assault player experience through increased gameplay options and new strategic challenges.
Free headset and microphone with every copy of Will Of Steel!
[Category :
GMX Media is announcing that their ground breaking voice-controlled military RTS - Will of Steel, is to be packaged with a headset and microphone for in-game use. Simply purchase the box set of Will of Steel on release and the hardware will come packaged inside!
“We are pleased to be announcing the inclusion of this peripheral to the Will of Steel box set .” Commented COO for GMX Media Eugene Perry. “The voice control is such an integral part of gameplay, we felt that such a move would encourage players to experience the game as it was meant to be played. The inclusion of the hardware will not affect the RRP of the product , which is likely to give the game even more appeal on the shop floor.”
“It is our great pleasure to join forces with GMX Media to bring Will of Steel to gamers across Europe and Asia. I truly believe that Will of Steel’s first-of-its-kind in-game voice control system will offer gamers a brand new way to enjoy the gameplay. The system allows players to issue commands and control units with their own voice so simulating a real-life feel for military commanding. With beautiful graphics, tons of different units, and many special options, the game is fun and challenging”.
New Features Announced for Alien Hominid
[Category :
This is a game we from PlayDevil.com are really looking forward too!
We'll receive a review sample before the launch date in May so expect it!
Here's some info regarding the new features for Alien Hominid:Not content with bringing the most originally styled game you'll see this year to European gamers, ZOO Digital would like to announce some of the new game features you can expect in the forthcoming Alien Hominid for PlayStation®2 and Xbox®.
Mini-Games
The addictive PDA puzzle mini-game is now almost as well known as the main game itself and alongside the level editor will be included 25 of the best fan built levels from the US. A brand new 2-4 player button basher called 'All You Can Eat' and featuring the Fat Kid will be exclusive to Europe.
Déjà Vu?
A major new replay function will allow you to rewind the level you've just completed and jump back in at any point. Show off your style or hop back in before you screwed up and wasted that life last time. It's not an easy way out though; you still have to complete the level before hitting the replay button!
Xbox LiveTM
The Xbox version will feature Xbox Live functionality. Including the ability to download additional levels for the PDA mini-game and check your ranking against other players on loads of different stats such as quickest time through the game, number of kills, buildings destroyed and number of head bites!
Scheduled for release on May 27 Alien Hominid is a fast-paced 2D side scroller where players must run, jump and shoot their way across the globe in pursuit of the alien's coveted UFO. The artwork is completely hand-drawn and hand-animated by cult artist Dan Paladin and comes with 16 levels complete with mini and main-bosses.
Sequel to Blitzkrieg series: Mission Barbarossa
[Category :
CDV Software Entertainment AG is pleased to announce the thrilling sequel to the globally successful Blitzkrieg series, Mission Barbarossa.
Releasing 8th April 2005, strategists can look forward to an exciting campaign with 9 missions as well as two additional missions. The developers of the add-on have given historical correctness a high priority. You will start with a few tank formations and re-enact the first confrontations in Mission Barbarossa.
Alongside 28 new units a lot of new textures have been added and convey an even more authentic game feeling than by the previous versions.
Features:
- 28 new units
- A German campaign with 9 exciting missions
- 2 additional missions
- new textures
- revised units data and organization to provide the most possible realistic WWII tactical real-time experience
- compatible with Blitzkrieg, BK Burning Horizon and BK Rolling Thunder
Vivendi will distribute BloodRayne 2 and Advent Rising in Europe
[Category :
Vivendi Universal Games (VU Games), today announced a global distribution agreement with Majesco to distribute two of its most thrilling titles; BloodRayne 2® available for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, the Xbox® video game system from Microsoft and PC, and Advent Rising® set for release on the Xbox® video game system from Microsoft and PC.
Under the terms of the agreement, VU Games will distribute the titles across Europe in the UK, France, Spain, Italy and Germany.
"This agreement with Majesco is a testament to VU Games' ongoing commitment to working with existing partners while remaining focused on gaming quality and broadening our portfolio," said Estelle Dubernard, VU Games' European Marketing Director. "With two great titles due for release in the next few months we look forward to a successful release for Advent Rising and BloodRayne 2 and also continuing our great work with Majesco."
"BloodRayne 2 has already been well received in North America while consumer and retail anticipation continues to build for Advent Rising. With VU Games now on board we look forward to seeing even greater success for Majesco in Europe." said Jason Dutton Vice President of Majesco Europe. "This continued partnership will ensure our games benefit from VU Games' excellent distribution network and sales and marketing abilities to bring these outstanding games to players across Europe."
New Arrivals for Slimline PStwo from Logic 3
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Tuesday, February 22 2005 @ 14:05 CET]
Logic3 are proud to announce three new additions to PlayStation range of accessories. The new products have been designed to be fully compatible with the new Slimline PStwo. The Stabilizer Stand allows the PStwo to be held safely in the upright position, the Multi-Link four player adaptor will work with both the PStwo & PS2 and the AC Adaptor is a replacement unit compatible with the new Slimline PStwo.
PStwo Stabilizer Stand - PS483
- Vertical Stand for PStwo
- Includes Storage for:
- 1 DVD / Game Case
- 1 Memory Card
-
PStwo/PS2 Multi-Link 2 - PS472N
- Allow up to 8 players on one PS2 (2 multi links are required)
- Fully Dual Shock 2 compatible
- Individual memory card slots
PStwo AC Adaptor - PS470
- Replacement AC Adaptor for PStwo
- Switching Power Supply
- 100-240v Rating
Product Code - Description - UPC - S.R.P..
PS483 - PStwo Stabilizer Stand 663452548300 - £4.99
PS472N - PStwo/PS2 Multi-Link 2 663452047209 - £9.99
PS470 - PStwo Replacement AC Adaptor - 663452547006 - £19.99
Magazine Coop for Metal Gear Solid 3
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Tuesday, February 22 2005 @ 14:02 CET]
Some of Europe’s most popular magazines will make cameo appearances in Konami of Europe’s forthcoming Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater epic for PlayStation 2.
Series Director and Metal Gear Solid creator Hideo Kojima has hidden five European magazines around the game’s stunningly realistic stages. Thus, with Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater utilizing a jungle setting, a barren cave system and guard huts amongst its many graphically resplendent locations, players will have to keep their eyes open to find copies of a selection of well-known magazines.
As such, as users guide the game’s central hero, Snake, through enemy bases, they could stumble across discarded copies of gaming titles such as Super Play (Sweden), PSM2 (France), Play2mania (Spain), or Germany’s news magazine Stern (with a cover design from 1964), or the Dutch TV and lifestyle magazine, Veronica.
With the game now confirmed for a March 3rd launch across Europe, interest in Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater is growing at a phenomenal rate. Konami has already announced that PAL versions of the game will benefit from several new game modes, including an ‘Extreme’ difficulty setting, a Boss ‘Duel’ mode wherein players can take on the game’s many key adversaries one by one, or a ‘Demo Theatre’ mode to sit back and enjoy Kojima’s beautiful scene-setting sequences in order.
Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater is released for PlayStation 2 on March 3rd, 2005.
Brother in Arms is finished!
[Category :
The website of the developers of Brother in Arms, Gearbox software announced that the game is finished!
Here's more info:
Since as early as January, Brothers in Arms has been going into the release candidate phase for the various platforms (Xbox, PS2, PC). The game is essentially finished, but the team has been working on the release engineering and details required for a solid, major launch of a AAA game like Brothers in Arms.
Many of you have been visiting our website often over the past several weeks noting the changing work items counter and talking with Gearbox developers on the Gearbox forums. Thank you for your attention. Myself and other Gearbox developers are likely to spend more time on the forums as our launch tasks wrap up, so stop by and say hi.
I would expect a wide press release soon that confirms the release to manufacturing of the gold master for each platform and the final shelf date of the game.
In the mean time, please look around the new Gearbox Software website.
And, thanks for your interest in Brothers in Arms – the wait is almost over.
-Randy Pitchford, President, Gearbox Software
Star Wolves demo
[Category :
Star Wolves is a 3D space RPG with strategy elements. The game thrusts players into a world of freelance space hunters in the XXI-XXII Century A.D. during a time of political crisis for the all-powerful Empire and the three mega-corporations that control all the known worlds. Excalibur has released the English demo featuring a tutorial and one Standard Patrol mission.
You can grab it here and weights around 230 mb.
Street Racing Syndicate coming soon for Euro GameCube
[Category :
The lights are green as SRS - Street Racing Syndicate screeches onto the Nintendo GameCube in the UK on 4 March 2005. In this high-octane racing adventure players can push over forty officially licensed cars to the limits around the streets of three major US cities. SRS - Street Racing Syndicate for Nintendo GameCube will be distributed by Nintendo of Europe. Namco are the publishers and it is developed by Eutechnyx.
Players can choose from over forty performance cars, from seven well-known manufacturers, including favourites such as the Mitsubishi Evolution VIII, Subaru Impreza S202 and Volkswagen Golf VR6. To give themselves an extra edge, players can modify their car with a selection of aftermarket tuning and body-styling products. Once their ride is suitably 'pimped-up', players get to freely roam the streets of Philadelphia, Miami and Los Angeles in search of other street racers to challenge. Money won from racing can be used to buy more cars, better parts or simply to refill on Nitrous.
Street racing is not just about speed, it is about respect! In SRS - Street Racing Syndicate it is important that your ride is not just fast, but that it also looks the part. Officially licensed aftermarket products can be purchased to improve your car's styling and make your ride the envy of your rivals. By clearing races and challenges the player earns respect points, unlocking more challenges and race events.
The modification system offers a huge selection of products from real tuning companies for each of the vehicles on offer. Street Racing Syndicate lets players tailor the look, performance, handling and sound of their car to suit their individual tastes. For racing fans the inclusion of the Dyno is an excellent addition to the game. The Dyno is a device enabling the player to measure the effect of any enhancements made to your car.
To earn a little extra income it is also possible to place cash bets on a race, the winner takes all. For risk-takers it's a great way to boost earnings and feed their NOS habit, but risk too much and you could end up walking home with an empty wallet.
No street racer's car would be complete without a gorgeous girl in the passenger seat! SRS- Street Racing Syndicate does not disappoint. As well as exploring the cities, players can complete special challenges to win the affections of eighteen girls: real models from the American cruise scene rendered and ready to reward the player's skills by unlocking their own special videos.
With the addition of four Arcade racing modes for that quick racing fix and a two player multiplayer mode, SRS - Street Racing Syndicate is looking likely to take the chequered flag when it launches on Nintendo GameCube on 4 March 2005 for the estimated retail price of around £40.
SEGA announces next-gen console/PC game, Condemned
[Category :
SEGA® of America, Inc. and SEGA Europe Ltd. today announced CondemnedTM, a suspense-filled, first-person psychological thriller game developed exclusively for the next generation of game consoles and the PC. The hunt for a serial killer has never seemed so terrifyingly real, prompting top gaming enthusiast publication Game Informer to comment that: "Condemned has redefined the horror genre (March 2005)."
Developed by award-winning Monolith Productions, the game allows players to experience an unnatural level of psychological tension as they use their instincts, forensic tools, and melee combat to track serial killers and bring them to justice. Gamers will play as Ethan Thomas, an FBI agent in the Serial Crimes Unit (SCU), whose pursuit of relentless serial killers leads him through detailed urban environments filled with deadly sociopaths who lurk on the periphery of humanity.
"SEGA expects Condemned to engage the game player with visceral, in-your-face, urban combat and an unparalleled level of unpredictability," said Scott A. Steinberg, vice president of entertainment marketing, SEGA of America. "The atmospheric tension and cinematic qualities of Condemned offer consumers the rich experience of a psychological thriller; something that has not been accomplished on previous hardware platforms."
"To become a leading independent game publisher, we must reinvigorate the SEGA brand by publishing great content that boosts revenue across all western territories," said Simon Jeffery, president and COO, SEGA of America. "Condemned represents an aggressive product acquisition strategy created to compliment SEGA IP with market-appropriate next-generation games."
"New leaps in technology are allowing our teams to create immersive game environments that are incredibly realistic," said Samantha Ryan, CEO of Monolith Productions. "Monolith's goal with Condemned, is to combine a disturbing atmosphere with realistic physics, devious AI, and a sophisticated combat system."
Condemned, the first next-generation console and PC game announced by SEGA, is slated to ship in Winter 2005.
Microsoft Announces Power Cord Replacement for Xbox
[Category :
As a precautionary measure and out of concern for consumer safety, Microsoft announced today that it will voluntarily replace the power cords on 14.1 million Xbox consoles worldwide.
The replacement power cords are designed to protect consumers and their Xbox consoles from rare electrical component failures that can pose a fire hazard. Fewer than one in 10,000 consoles have experienced these component failures, and in almost all instances, any damage caused by these failures was contained within the console itself or limited to the tip of the power cord at the back of the console.
However, in 30 consoles worldwide, these failures are reported to have caused minor injury or minor property damage. In seven instances, customers reported sustaining a minor burn to their hand. In 23 instances, customers reported smoke damage, or minor damage to a carpet or entertainment centre.
In all regions except Continental Europe, Xbox consoles manufactured before 23rd October, 2003 require a replacement power cord. In Continental Europe, consoles manufactured before 13th January, 2004 require a replacement power cord.
"This is a preventative step we're choosing to take despite the rarity of these incidents," said Robbie Bach, senior vice president, Microsoft Home & Entertainment Division. "We regret the inconvenience, but believe offering consumers a free replacement cord is the responsible thing to do."
To order a replacement cord, consumers should go to www.xbox.com and click on the "Power Cord Replacement for Xbox" link. Replacement cords will arrive two to four weeks after the order is placed. While waiting for the new cord to arrive, consumers should turn off their Xbox consoles when not in use.
Playboy: the mansion soon available in Europe
[Category :
Ubisoft, one of the world’s largest video game publishers, today announced that Playboy The Mansion™ which will be playable on multiple platforms including PC, Sony PlayStation® 2 and Microsoft XboxTM consoles will be available in stores on March 3rd 2005.
Ubisoft makes male dreams come true: Playboy: The Mansion blends state-of-the-art social simulation with traditional role-playing and empire-building gameplay. As Hugh Hefner, gamers build the Playboy mansion and magazine into a dynamic cultural icon and powerful brand.
For more information about Playboy The Mansion™, come and visit the game’s official website at www.playboythemansion.com and on www.ubi.com
Hip Games release more character info of Stolen
[Category :
Hip Games today released information on Louie Palmer, one of the leading characters from its upcoming ultra realistic third person action stealth game "Stolen" that will be released on PS2, Xbox and PC on March 22nd, 2005.
A war veteran and communications expert, Louie Palmer acts as an agent and confident to professional thief Anya Romanov. From his control room, Louie is the voice in Anya’s ear guiding her through the Forge City’s most dangerous jobs.
Gameplay features include:
- A unique subject matter: play the role of a Hollywood-style thief with a host of athletic and martial arts abilities.
- Break into and out of movie-like locations and steal priceless items.
- Use atmospheric real-time volumetric shadow technology to hide from your enemies.
- Employ hi-tech gadgets, tools and weapons to reach your objectives.
- Various security companies and systems to outsmart, each with unique personalities and traits.
- A stressful atmosphere - with tense and dramatic action set pieces.
- High-tech thief equipment: tracking devices, sonic visor, traversal equipment and more.
- Various enemies and guards will be doing their best to make you fail. Get ready for some intense action sequences!
- Vast array of interesting characters set to a mature background story supported by cinematics
Eidos announces PSP title : Smart-Bomb
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Wednesday, February 16 2005 @ 21:35 CET]
Eidos, one of the world's leading publishers and developers of entertainment software, announces their first title for Sony's handheld video game system, PSPTM with Smart Bomb. Developed by Core Design, Smart Bomb will be released in conjunction with the European PSP hardware launch.
Smart Bomb delivers a tense gameplay experience as players are faced with a series of fast paced, challenging 3D puzzles based around diffusing sophisticated AI bombs. Gamers are faced with a series of bomb modules split into tiers and each tier must be disabled to unlock the next. As a tier is disabled the player moves closer to the detonator at the core of the bomb which must be deactivated before moving onto a new challenge. Single player action includes story, arcade and challenge modes while multiplayer mode challenges four players in a series of head to head gaming action.
A decade ago, an unknown aggressor held the world to ransom with a series of highly sophisticated AI bombs planted at key locations around the globe. In response, the Global Defence Network assembled an elite reaction force – the Bomb Disposal Unit (B.D.U.) to neutralise the threat and restore order.
Led by Colonel Cage and rookie Michelle Grace, the B.D.U successfully diffuse these advanced AI networks and bombs, using a cutting edge prototype Virtual Reality (VR) system. Cage then mysteriously vanishes amid speculation that the VR system has malfunctioned. At the same time the bomb threats cease. That is, until now!
The civilised world is again under threat following the discovery of a new intricate network of bombs, displaying the same 'intelligent' detonator system found on the devices deactivated by B.D.U team just before Cage's disappearance. Cage's, protégée Michelle Grace, having risen through the ranks of the B.D.U is now one of the top field operatives. She will be responsible for your VR system training and development. It is then up to you to put a stop to this new reign of terror.
Great Battles of WWII - Stalingrad: DEMO available now!
[Category :
Yesterday Black Bean announced the gold for Great Battles of WWII: Stalingrad. Today, they are glad to inform you that finally GB of WWII: Stalingrad english demo is available at: http://www.blackbeangames.com/?act=games&game=stalingrad&ope=demo
FYI: this demo weighs around 330 MB and is definitely worth downloading if you are War strategic fan!
PlayDevil updates review of Pikmin 2 (GC)
[Category :
We have posted an very 'updated' review of Nintendo's "Pikmin 2".
The game is already out for a few months here in Europe but our review was not complete. That's why we have isolated our reviewer and put him to work for a more detailed and updated review of this game.
The result? A longer and much richer game review.
Here's a snip:In order to freshen-up the sequel (otherwise it would be more of the same), Nintendo was smart enough to include several new types of Pikmin in "Pikmin 2".
It helps its replay value and it opens a much wider world of doing more with the game. More objects, more new ideas and definitely more strategic missions.
You can read the "updated" review of Pikmin 2 right here.
GTR Support Vector Expansion
[Category :
Publisher 10tacle Studios AG and Developer SimBin Development Team AB are pleased to announce that the coming international release of GTR – FIA GT Racing Game, will include complete support for TrackIR 3™ with Vector Expansion™. Oregon-based NaturalPoint® Inc.'s TrackIR 3™ with Vector Expansion™ is a high-performance head tracking system that is the standard by which 3D view control is measured. This small, easy to use device makes your GT car cockpit come to life.
Drive Like Never Before
What makes the GTR implementation of Vector Expansion™ so revolutionary is the ability to manipulate the 3D environment in all six degrees, also known as "six degrees of freedom" or “6DOF”. As the driver you can now move your virtual head just like your own head. With the TrackIR 3™ you can move your monitor sight from left to right, up and down, simply by turning your head. With Vector Expansion™ this feature has been taken to the next level so the gamer can lean left/right, slide forward/backward, raise or lower the head and even tilt it to any angle. This will give everyone the racing advantage needed to be the winner. Lap times will improve and there will be far fewer crashes due to the increased situational awareness that Vector Expansion™ offers. Until now, leaning into the turn or looking around the steering wheel had been impossible in a racing simulation. By bringing TrackIR 3™ with Vector Expansion™ and GTR together, every race enthusiast get the most satisfying and realistic sim-racing experience possible. You will encounter situational awareness like never before, have view control like never before and with GTR you will race like never before!
"Coming from the racing simulation community as fanatics ourselves, we know what features the hardcore racer wants to see and as a company, we are committed to fulfilling the wish lists of racers everywhere", says Ian Bell, Head of Studio/Creative Director, from SimBin Development Team.
To learn more about TrackIR™ and Vector Expansion™ visit www.trackir.se or www.naturalpoint.com for further information.
GTR - FIA GT Racing Game will be available next month and hit the shelves in Europe on the 11th of March!
Atari is developing and will publish The Matrix: Path of Neo
[Category :
Atari, under an exclusive licensing agreement with Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment, is developing and publishing THE MATRIX: PATH OF NEO, an interactive console and PC game based on the blockbuster motion picture trilogy THE MATRIX, THE MATRIX RELOADED and THE MATRIX REVOLUTIONS from Warner Bros. Pictures. THE MATRIX: PATH OF NEO is slated for worldwide release in Q4 2005 and will be available on the PlayStation®2 entertainment system, the Xbox® videogame system from Microsoft, and the PC.
THE MATRIX: PATH OF NEO marks the second collaboration of Atari and its Shiny Entertainment development studio; the Wachowski Brothers, creators of The Matrix trilogy; and Joel Silver, producer of the trilogy. In May 2003, Atari released Enter The Matrix, a parallel timeline to THE MATRIX RELOADED and a bridge to THE MATRIX REVOLUTIONS, which debuted at #1 atop gaming charts around the world and has sold nearly 6 million units worldwide to date.
Set in the Matrix universe, THE MATRIX: PATH OF NEO will enable players to actually play as “Neo,” the central character, and relive his most important and memorable scenarios from the complete film trilogy, including the original film, THE MATRIX. Throughout the game, the path the player takes to resolve each scenario and the resulting consequences will be scripted and directed by the Wachowski Brothers. The likenesses of all of the films’ key actors -- including Keanu Reeves (“Neo”), Laurence Fishburne (“Morpheus”), Carrie-Ann Moss (“Trinity), and Hugo Weaving (“Agent Smith”) -- will be featured in THE MATRIX: PATH OF NEO, which will also include footage from all three feature films, as well as THE ANIMATRIX.
“We couldn’t be more thrilled to be embarking on a new Matrix project,” said Jim Caparro, President and Chief Executive Officer of Atari. “The Wachowski Brothers have created a universe that is uniquely deep and rich, with virtually limitless creative possibilities, and the interactive space is the ideal world in which to explore them. With The Matrix: Path of Neo, the Wachowski Brothers will be giving their legions of fans the best of everything: the first chance to personally relive Neo’s journey, and the chance to experience new adventures they cannot yet even imagine.”
“I’m very happy to continue my collaboration with Larry and Andy on all things Matrix and beyond,” said Joel Silver, producer of the Matrix film trilogy. “Enter The Matrix added another exciting chapter to the legend. I’m thrilled that we are further expanding and exploring the vast Matrix universe through The Matrix: Path of Neo.”
Rayman is back on the DS!
[Category :
Ubisoft, one of the world’s largest videogame publishers, today announced the upcoming release of Rayman®: Hoodlums’ Revenge on Game Boy Advance in March 2005. This new episode is developed by the creators of the highly successful Rayman® Advance that was among the top-five selling Game Boy Advance titles in 2001.
Based on an original storyline, this new episode picks up where Rayman® 3 left off, with Globox experiencing a split personality, including an “evil” Globox! Naturally, the frenetic Hoodlum Army will try to take advantage of the situation.
For the very first time in Rayman’s universe, a 3D isometric view is used, providing a refreshingly new gameplay for the Rayman® brand with smoother than ever animations.
Play as Rayman or Globox, or combine their forces in a new and fun co-operative mode.
Rayman will also be arriving this March on the Nintendo DSTM. With Rayman® DS, Rayman arrives for the first time in full 3D glory on a handheld console as he battles to defeat the pirate terror that has enslaved his world.
“Rayman is one of the most recognizable videogame characters around the world, with more than 12 million units sold worldwide. We’re excited to support both Nintendo DSTM and Game Boy Advance with our latest installments of the Rayman franchise. We think it’s great that fans will have two unique Rayman titles to choose from at the same time,” said John Parkes, EMEA Marketing Director at Ubisoft.
Rayman® Hoodlums’ Revenge will be available on Game Boy Advance at the suggested retail price of 44,99 € next March 2005.
Rayman® DS will be available on Nintendo DS™ at the suggested retail price of 39,99 € next March 2005.
Ubisoft reveals additional DS titles
[Category :
Ubisoft, one of the world’s largest video game publishers, today reveals additional titles currently in development for the new Nintendo DS™ handheld console.
At the Nintendo DS European press conference, Yves Guillemot confirmed the release of Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith™ this spring, and announced that a Nintendo DS version of King Kong, based on Universal Pictures’ December 14, 2005 release, King Kong, from three-time Academy Award® winner Peter Jackson (The Lord of the Rings trilogy), is currently in development for release during the 2005 holiday season. Furthermore, this Summer Ubisoft will publish Bomberman™ DS, from Japanese developer Hudson Soft Co., Ltd.
In addition, Ubisoft reveals today that its highly-anticipated stealth sequel Tom Clancy’s Splinter Cell Chaos Theory™ will also come out on the handheld platform later this year. Other games based on internal franchises will enrich the company’s line-up in the future.
These titles join those announced earlier as official Nintendo DS launch titles: Rayman® DS, Sprung™ and Asphalt: Urban GT™. Sprung™ and Asphalt: Urban GT™, which has already sold well over 180 000 units, are currently available in the US and Canada, and Rayman® DS will hit North American shelves in March. All three will be in stores for the machine’s European launch.
“Our full support of the Nintendo DS is clearly visible by the number of titles coming out with the launch,” said Yves Guillemot, Chairman and CEO of Ubisoft. “We are proud to offer one of the most diverse line-ups of any major editor. Racing, platform, stealth, or action- there is truly something for all tastes.”
New GTR demo available!
[Category :
A new official demo version of GTR is here, released by developer SimBin Development Team and publisher 10tacle Studios – another teaser for prospective GTR gamers all over the world – now available at www.gtr-game.com.
This surprise for all GTR fan's provides the opportunity to try all difficulty levels, from the pick-up-and-play Arcade Mode, to Semi-Pro Mode and Simulation for the more experienced user. The new demo also shows the outstanding scenery when driving the Proximus 24 Hours of Spa at dusk. Fabulous skies mixed with beautiful cars with bright headlights let you experience a new dimension in racing with amazing battles in the sunset.
For those who have grown tired of the two cars in the previous demo we are pleased to announce that the new demo contains two new cars with the rumbling Saleen S7-R representing the GT class and the irascible Ferrari 360 Modena from the NGT class. They are just waiting for you to sit down behind the wheel.
The demo is not copy protected – feel free to download at www.gtr-game.com and prepare to Get Real!
The game will be available next month and hit the shelves in Europe on the 11th of March.
All-Star Cast secured for Batman Begins Video game
[Category :
Electronic Arts and Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment announced today they have secured an all-star cast for the Batman BeginsTM video game. The game will feature the voices and likenesses of Christian Bale (Bruce Wayne/Batman), Michael Caine (Alfred Pennyworth), Liam Neeson (Henri Ducard), Katie Holmes (Rachel Dawes), Cillian Murphy (Dr. Jonathan Crane), Tom Wilkinson (Carmine Falcone) and Morgan Freeman (Lucius Fox), all reprising their roles from the upcoming Warner Bros. Pictures film directed by Christopher Nolan.
Launching with the film in June 2005, the Batman Begins video game challenges gamers to step into the shadows of Gotham City's perilous criminal underworld as DC Comics' legendary Dark Knight, and use fear as their ultimate weapon.
Based on Christopher Nolan's film, the Batman Begins video game explores the origins of the Batman legend and the Dark Knight's emergence as a force for good in Gotham. Gamers will play as both Bruce Wayne and his alter-ego, Batman, hunting evil-doers from the shadows, using strength, intellect and an array of high tech gadgets to fight the sinister forces that threaten the city, including classic villains the Scarecrow, Ra's Al Ghul and Carmine Falcone.
Batman Begins is currently in development by EA and Eurocom for the PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system, Xbox video game console from Microsoft, and Nintendo GameCube
Atari announces Tycoon City: New York
[Category :
Atari announced today that Tycoon CityTM: New York, a PC game that challenges players to "make it big" in Manhattan, is in development and scheduled for European release during Q4, 2005. In Tycoon City: New York, players make it big by constructing and customising hundreds of businesses and famous landmarks anywhere and any way they want in a bustling simulation of New York City. Players must create and improve their businesses to outclass the competition, and become rich and famous in New York City.
"Tycoon City: New York gives players an opportunity to become a big-shot in this richly detailed facsimile of the city that never sleeps," said Martin Spiess, Senior Vice President of Marketing, Atari Europe. "Tycoon City: New York builds upon the human desire to create empires that often begins with a few simple building blocks as a kid. Anyone can play the game and have a great time creating their own New York City without the need for a degree in town planning, but players will need the eye of the tiger to really make it big."
In Tycoon City: New York the player starts from humble beginnings as a budding entrepreneur, and builds a Manhattan empire by creating, upgrading, and customising over 100 types of major businesses. Challenges include running a nightclub, owning a hot new restaurant, putting on a concert in Central Park, and opening a Broadway theatre.
With world-renowned landmarks, true-to-life neighbourhoods, and spectacular New York events, Tycoon City: New York puts players in the thick of the action, striving to become major moguls in America's most exciting city. High-profile industries, real-world brands, and a bustling round-the-clock lifestyle give every player the chance to make it.
Tycoon City: New York for the PC is being developed by Deep Red Games and will be launched across Europe in Q4 2005.
New Air combat sim heading for PS2
[Category :
Energy Airforce: Aim Strike! sees players take on the role of the pilot and not the plane in a breathtaking air combat simulator developed in conjunction with aerospace industry giant Lockheed-Martin and several air force self defense divisions. An ultra realistic graphics engine guarantees faster, bigger, and better action than it's predecessors, and tasks such as fuelling, boarding and take off are seamlessly combined giving the whole mission the realism of starting from the moment the pilot is ready to take off.
With the Lockheed Martin license, players begin the game with the versatile F-16 Fighting Falcon and go on to unlock a substantial hangar of different aircraft. To fly new aircraft, a license must be earned by completing a series of tests in the License mode. Mastering new techniques and utilizing the particular qualities of different aircraft opens up a variety of new options. Energy Airforce: Aim Strike! also includes intelligent wingmen for each mission whose plane can be chosen depending on the kind of assistance the player requires. The player must also command wingmen, directing them according to the circumstances of the mission.
PlayDevil.com reviews Logic 3 Light Shield Advance for the GBA
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Friday, February 11 2005 @ 15:53 CET]
Today we prepare you another hardware review with the Logic 3 Light Shield Advance. It's an add-on for the Gameboy Advance.
Here's a snip from the review:
Well, good question. The Light Shield Advance (lets call it LSA) in infact an add-on that needs to be hooked on the rear side of the GBA. It connects using the EXT interface and gets it power through that interface as well. So you don't need any batteries at all for this device. It uses it directly from the GBA.
On the LSA rear side, you have 3 possibilities. There's the ON/OFF button (really small), the EXT interface so you can still hook up a link cable and a dimmer light switch which enables you to, exactly dim the light more or less.
"Logic 3 Light Shield Advance review"
Konami offers a life of crime!
[Category :
Konami of Europe has announced it is to publish a new action title for PlayStation 2, Xbox and PC entitled Crime Life: Gang Wars. Crime Life: Gang Wars is a free roaming crime based beat em up. Mixing action and strategy elements within a gritty, detailed storyline to explore modern-day urban gang culture, the player is cast as a small-time homie who must work their way through the ranks to become a gang leader.
Urban culture is the focus of Crime Life: Gang Wars. Hence the theme of the game will be Hip Hop. Hip Hop is popular urban youth culture, closely associated with rap music and with the style and fashions of Afro-American inner-city residents.
Developed by Konami of Europe's Product Development, Crime Life: Gang Wars boasts a strong narrative that shows the dangers and strains associated with gang membership, and promotes a strong sense of morality via game elements inspired by classic gang movies, such as New Jack City, Boyz 'n the Hood and Menace to Society. The player must protect his own people from exploitation and abuse, and defend his crew from the violence and treachery that permeates the society he lives in. The game itself is set within Grand Central City, a sprawling metropolis where ruthless gangs are vying for power as the police struggle to contain them.
The game's stunning visuals and rich characterization truly bring Crime Life: Gang Wars alive, with each gang instantly recognizable via a large cast of anti-heroes. Reputation is everything, and for the player to survive he must establish himself as the toughest fighter against the most menacing gang members out there, all of whom are battling for street supremacy. The player will always feel like their next fight could finish them or make their name forever.
Crime Life will be released for PlayStation 2, Xbox and PC in 2005.
Delta Force: Reloaded
[Category :
Entertainment software developer and publisher NovaLogic, Inc. today announced that the game which started the military FPS revolution, Delta Force®, is returning with a brand new look, new content and improved features all at a great low price.
Delta Force: Reloaded sees the cream of the crop classic single and multiplayer missions from the original game return, using a specially optimised game engine. Improvements will include a complete graphics overhaul, including new renders, particle effects weather effects, as well as new content in the form of missions and online features. Delta Force: Reloaded also includes over 25 co-op missions, online stat tracking and improved anti-cheat measures.
Delta Force: Reloaded features:
-A total visual overhaul
- 20 Classic Delta Force missions across 3 campaigns
- Additional new missions created especially for Delta Force: Reloaded.
- Over 25 classic and new Co-Op missions
- STATS! For the first time in Delta Force 1 check your STATS online in NovaWorld hosted games
- Over 20 multiplayer maps hosted through NovaWorld with support for up to 32 players online. 5 multiplayer game types include Deathmatch, Team Deathmatch, Team King of the Hill and more favorites!
Delta Force: Reloaded is scheduled to ship for the PC in the UK and Europe in Q2 2005 priced £14.99
Ubisoft will publish Lumines for PSP in the US
[Category :
Today, Ubisoft, one of the world's leading videogame publishers, announced that it has signed an exclusive agreement with Bandai Company, Ltd. to publish Lumines for the PSPTM handheld entertainment system. The critically acclaimed music and luminary action puzzle Lumines is slated for release in the United States in March 2005 and was jointly developed by Bandai Company Ltd. and Q ENTERTAINMENT, under the creative direction of renowned developer Tetsuya Mizuguchi.
"Ubisoft is extremely excited to partner with Bandai and Q ENTERTAINMENT to bring Lumines for the PSP handheld system to consumers," said James Regan, director of new business development at Ubisoft. "Ubisoft delivers superior products that are immersive, exciting and unique, and Lumines is a natural fit for us."
Lumines brings a unique puzzle experience to PSP handheld system owners, offering gameplay reminiscent of Tetris while including new innovations and enhancements in technology that fuse music, puzzles and luminescence. Users are challenged to delete blocks from the game screen while grooving to evolving musical scores of rock, techno and pop grooves. Lumines offers numerous levels of graphics and music with single-player, wireless multi- player and bonus modes. Earn changeable skins and increase amount of collectible characters.
Since its December 2004 launch in Japan, Lumines has sold 40,000 units, becoming one of the most popular launch titles available for the PSP handheld system. The U.S. release of Lumines includes new enhancements including a quicker loading time and skin changes.
Rising Star Games brings new adventure game to the PS2
[Category :
Rising Star Games is set to release a new take on third-person action adventures with the beautiful hack-and-slash epic Swords Of Destiny. Heading for the PlayStation 2 in the summer, Swords of Destiny is further example of Rising Star's commitment to bringing quality Japanese software to the European market.
With an engine making the most of the PlayStation 2 hardware, players are treated to beautifully designed environments, rich in visual flair and atmosphere. Featuring diverse locations such as ruined fortresses, mountain passes shrouded in mist and labyrinthine temple interiors, there's plenty to explore. Within those impressive locations, stylish characterisation abounds with imaginative designs for both allies and enemies as suitably moody protagonists taking on superbly detailed and creepy opponents. Full localisation is also implemented, with professional voice actors providing dialogue painstakingly translated from the original Japanese. Vocals aside, there's an array of suitably dynamic sound effects to complement the action.
Players take the role of Lei Yun, a supremely talented apprentice on a long and challenging mission against dark forces seeking control of the land. Previously defeated by Lei Yun's master, this pervasive menace returns in the form of the Gyakki, a race of powerful demons under the control of a tyrannical Empress. Hell-bent on bringing death and destruction to the nation, only Lei Yun stands in the way of a seemingly unstoppable army of evil.
Utilising the three magical swords handed to him by his fallen master, as well as weapons dropped by the demons he defeats, Lei Yun must battle his way through level upon level populated by all manner of demonic opponents. The three main swords give the player new abilities when equipped. Enemy sword types appear according to how opponents are dispatched and each weapon has its own unique properties and statistics.
The lock-on based fighting system is satisfying and simple enough to understand within a few seconds play, but deep enough to provide lasting appeal. When on the defensive, the player can dash, jump and roll away from the locked-on enemy's attacks. When taking the offensive, the lock-on really comes into its own. By accruing enough 'Sword Time' through killing enemies in a conventional manner or alternatively, using magic found in destructable items around the levels, Lei Yun can unleash devastating combo attacks that can clear the area of enemies in a spectacular slow-motion aerial tornado of dashing, slashing, sword-swinging destruction.
With its dynamic and intense fighting system, engaging plot and stunning visuals, Swords Of Destiny will be released for the PS2 in June 2005.
PlayBoy: The Mansion 3rd trailer online
[Category :
The PlayBoy Mansion hype doesn't stop at all! You have no idea how many mails we already received from the lads over @ Ubisoft regarding this game.
So to please them a bit, we are posting this news that they have released a new trailer for the upcoming PlayBoy game.
Here's more info:
A new trailer is currently available on www.playboythemansion.com for the upcoming sexy, clever and exciting title by Ubisoft.
From the front door to the world famous Grotto, you’ll construct your own Playboy Mansion. Dozens of exciting items are available to keep your guests entertained for hours, including stunning paintings by the likes of Olivia and Andy Warhol that are sure to impress even your most cynical guests.
The following features will prove you that the mansion in not just the average house: it’s purely paradise!!
• 4 areas to build: The Main Mansion’s 1st floor, 2nd floor (where you will set up your offices), the pool area & the clubhouse. As you progress through the game, you’ll gain access to more and more of the Mansion
• More than 300 pieces of furniture to spruce up the place with total craziness: make sure you place your massage table at a strategic place for your guests to feel at ease; your newly purchased pipe organ will please everyone’s ears, for sure; and don’t forget the hot tub, that will entice your VIPs to get cosy!
• Choose well your items! Every item in the game (furniture or other) has a certain number of stats. Items with a high room rating will help keep your guests’ general mood high while being in that room. Moreover, directly interacting with items can positively influence the guests’ drives (satisfy your guests’ Personal Development drive by letting use your book shelves).
Playboy The Mansion™ ships in March 2005 for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, the Xbox® video game system from Microsoft and PC-CD Rom. For more information about Playboy The Mansion™, come and visit the game’s official website at www.playboythemansion.com and on www.ubi.com
PlayDevil.com enters deal with games distributor ContactData
[Category :
We have just secured a pretty important deal with Dutch games distributor "Contact Data".
Contact Data is one the leading benelux games distributor for several brands such as Activision, Capcom, LucasArts, Midway, Empire and also for accessoires Madcatz and Piranha Xtreme.
This means that we will,from now on, also get their latest information regarding the games they represent and the ability to preview and review ALL games that are distributed by Contact Data.
You can visit their main site at http://www.contactdata.nl or click on their logo which you'll find on the left side of our newspage.
Expect soon some new games and accessoires (p)reviews of titles by Activision, LucasArts, Capcom, etc...
Many thanks to Veerle from ContactData for 'still' putting faith in PlayDevil.com!
The Sims franchise celebrates its 5th anniversary
[Category :
Electronic Arts today announced that the award winning computer game franchise, The SimsTM, will celebrate its fifth anniversary this month.
The very first The SimsTM videogame for the PC began shipping to stores this week in February 2000 and took the nation by storm by becoming the #1 selling PC game in four out of the last five years. Since 2000, the franchise has spawned 7 expansion packs, been translated into over 17 languages and has sold more than 54 million units worldwide.
In September 2004, the next-generation sequel The Sims 2 quickly became the fastest-selling PC game. In just five months, sales have already reached over 4.5 million units worldwide. The first expansion pack for this award-winning game, The SimsTM 2 University, will be in stores on the 11th March 2005 and will allow players to send their Sims to college and experience the ultimate on-campus fantasy.
"The Sims changed the way people play videogames and also changed the kinds of people who play videogames," said Bing Gordon, Executive Vice President and Chief Creative Officer of Electronic Arts. "The Sims 2 and its expansion packs will continue to deliver what Sims fans everywhere want - new content, fun and innovation, because The Sims franchise is still just beginning," Gordon added.
Tech info on PS3 internal 'Cell' processor
[Category :
At the International Solid State Circuits Conference (ISSCC) today, IBM, Sony Corporation, Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. and Toshiba Corporation (Toshiba) for the first time disclosed in detail the breakthrough multi-core architectural design - featuring supercomputer-like floating point performance with observed clock speeds greater than 4 GHz - of their jointly developed microprocessor code-named Cell.
A team of IBM, Sony Group and Toshiba engineers has collaborated on development of the Cell microprocessor at a joint design center established in Austin, Texas, since March 2001.
The prototype chip is 221 mm2, integrates 234 million transistors, and is fabricated with 90 nanometer SOI technology.
Cell's breakthrough multi-core architecture and ultra high-speed communications capabilities deliver vastly improved, real-time response for entertainment and rich media applications, in many cases 10 times the performance of the latest PC processors.
Effectively a "supercomputer on a chip" incorporating advanced multi-processing technologies used in IBM's sophisticated servers, Sony Group's computer entertainment systems and Toshiba's advanced semiconductor technology, Cell will become the broadband processor used for industrial applications to the new digital home.
Another advantage of Cell is to support multiple operating systems, such as conventional operating systems (including Linux), real-time operating systems for computer entertainment and consumer electronics applications as well as guest operating systems for specific applications, simultaneously.
Initial production of Cell microprocessors is expected to begin at IBM's 300mm wafer fabrication facility in East Fishkill, N.Y., followed by Sony Group's Nagasaki Fab, this year. IBM, Sony Group and Toshiba expect to promote Cell-based products including a broad range of industry-wide applications, from digital televisions to home servers to supercomputers.
Among the highlights of Cell released today:
- Cell is a breakthrough architectural design - featuring eight synergistic processors and top clock speeds of greater than 4 GHz (as measured during initial hardware testing)
- Cell is a multicore chip capable of massive floating point processing
- Cell is OS neutral and supports multiple operating systems simultaneously.
More detailed 'consumer' info as soon as get our hands on it!
Street Racing Syndicate from Namco soon on GameCube
[Category :
The lights are green as SRS - Street Racing Syndicate screeches onto the Nintendo GameCube in the UK on 4 March 2005. In this high-octane racing adventure players can push over forty officially licensed cars to the limits around the streets of three major US cities. SRS - Street Racing Syndicate for Nintendo GameCube will be distributed by Nintendo of Europe. Namco are the publishers and it is developed by Eutechnyx.
Players can choose from over forty performance cars, from seven well-known manufacturers, including favourites such as the Mitsubishi Evolution VIII, Subaru Impreza S202 and Volkswagen Golf VR6. To give themselves an extra edge, players can modify their car with a selection of aftermarket tuning and body-styling products. Once their ride is suitably 'pimped-up', players get to freely roam the streets of Philadelphia, Miami and Los Angeles in search of other street racers to challenge. Money won from racing can be used to buy more cars, better parts or simply to refill on Nitrous.
To earn a little extra income it is also possible to place cash bets on a race, the winner takes all. For risk-takers it's a great way to boost earnings and feed their NOS habit, but risk too much and you could end up walking home with an empty wallet.
No street racer's car would be complete without a gorgeous girl in the passenger seat! SRS- Street Racing Syndicate does not disappoint. As well as exploring the cities, players can complete special challenges to win the affections of eighteen girls: real models from the American cruise scene rendered and ready to reward the player's skills by unlocking their own special videos.
With the addition of four Arcade racing modes for that quick racing fix and a two player multiplayer mode, SRS - Street Racing Syndicate is looking likely to take the chequered flag when it launches on Nintendo GameCube on 4 March 2005 for the estimated retail price of around £40.
Mashed Fully: Loaded hits Xbox in March
[Category :
Empire Interactive announce the forthcoming release of Mashed: Fully Loaded for Microsfot Xbox. Mashed Fully: Loaded offers old and new players alike an upgraded version of 2004's critically-acclaimed and award-winning top down, multiplayer racer, Mashed - hailed by Official PlayStation®2 Magazine as 'the most addictive game we've played for years'.
In case you need reminding and/or were living on Mars last year, Mashed was a top down racing game that pits up to four players against each other in a gladiatorial racing battle extravaganza. Mashed: Fully Loaded steps the Mashed experience up a gear, taking everything that is good and great from the original game and packing it with Fully Loaded extras, bringing players a whole new experience in top-down, multiplayer mayhem.
Mashed: Fully Loaded boasts extra tracks, more environment variations, more cars to race in, new improved handling, training modes, more single player challenges, new tournaments and a host of other in game improvements.
MASHED FULLY LOADED – FEATURES:
- Up to four players at one time, play "all-against-all" or collaborate with friends in the team mode.
- All New Special Effects and Graphical Polish
- Improved Smooth Camera System
- Improved Power-up Pickup System
- 30 tracks to race on including training ovals, sandy deserts in Egypt, icy mountains and twisting forests + 3 New Tournaments – Turbo, Ice and Night.
- Different cars for each track that suit the terrain are waiting for you to master – a total of 15 Vehicles, all with Varied Handling
- Nine hi-tech weapons to pick up and unleash on your rivals including machine guns, mortars, missiles, shotguns, oil slicks, flamethrowers, mines, barrel bombs and blinding flares.
- Air Strike system that allows players knocked out of a race to unleash death from the skies on their rivals
- 60 Single Player Challenges
- 6 Training Modes (over an hour of extra game play)
Mashed: Fully Loaded will be released in March 2005 at a value price of £19.99
Delta Force - Black Hawk Down in development for PS2
[Category :
Entertainment software publisher NovaLogic, Ltd. today announced that Delta Force® – Black Hawk Down® is currently under development for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system.
NovaLogic has teamed up with external developer Rebellion, to bring the #1 best selling PC game to the PlayStation 2. Using Rebellion's Asura game engine Delta Force – Black Hawk Down has been developed from the ground up to create a unique look that portrays a gritty and realistic war torn Somalia in 1993. As well as superb graphics, the Asura game engine also adds additional features specific to the PlayStation 2 version of the game, such as rag doll physics, in game cut scenes and realistic bullet penetration of buildings.
The single player missions in Delta Force – Black Hawk Down were created with the help of former Special Operations Soldiers and are based on actual missions undertaken by elite Delta Force Operators and US Army Rangers as part of Operation Restore Hope and Task Force Ranger.
In addition to the various split screen co-op games available, Delta Force – Black Hawk Down is the first game to offer PlayStation 2 owners the opportunity to play in games of up to 32 players online! Groundbreaking multiplayer content spread across 25 different maps with 7 different game types will keep even the die hard military FPS fanatic busy!
NovaLogic are also working closely with the Special Operations Warrior Foundation. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of the PlayStation 2 version of Delta Force – Black Hawk Down will be donated to the foundation. The SOWF provides college scholarship grants, along with financial aid and educational counseling to the children of Special Operations personnel who were killed in an operational mission or training accident.
Delta Force – Black Hawk Down is coming to the home console market this Spring!
Atari's 'Act Of War: DA Demo Hits 580,000 Downloads Worldwide
[Category :
Atari, Inc. today celebrates the success of the Act of War: Direct ActionTM demo. Since launching just two weeks ago, more than half a million enthusiastic gamers around the world have downloaded the playable demo for a preview of the highly anticipated strategy game available for personal computer on March 15, 2005.
In total, 350,000 U.S. gamers have sampled the techno-thriller story of Jason Richter and his battle-hardened counter-terrorist team, Task Force Talon. In Europe, download figures have shot past 230,000 and continue to climb. With the counter showing little sign of slowing down on both sides of the Atlantic, the Act of War: Direct ActionTM demo is on the verge of setting a new record for Atari, which recently saw an incredible level of success for its downloadable demo of Rollercoaster Tycoon® 3.
Act of War: Direct ActionTM is a graphically stunning and frighteningly plausible tale of suspense, international intrigue and geopolitical military conflict. Through a techno-thriller story constructed by military expert and author Dale Brown, this real-time strategy experience puts players squarely in control of counterterrorist forces to defend cities of the world. As commander of a newly formed anti-terror military unit known as the Talon Task Force, players will need to recruit combat units, develop technologies, manage finite resources, and deploy their forces against a cunning and ruthless terror network. The single player Act of War: Direct ActionTM demo is taken from the game's sixth mission set in Egypt entitled 'Falling Hawk'.
New Game publisher arrives for PSP, DS and others
[Category :
A new publishing powerhouse is establishing itself in Europe, with the remit of bringing the very best Japanese titles to the continent's shores.
Rising Star Games Limited (Rising Star) – a joint venture between Japanese publisher Marvelous Interactive Inc. and long-standing Japanese Nintendo distributor Bergsala AB– will initially publish titles for PSP, Nintendo DS and PlayStation 2, introducing new games alongside enhanced and updated iterations of interactive entertainment's most loved franchises.
Rising Star's launch portfolio includes the first ever appearance of a Harvest Moon title on PlayStation 2, along with new iterations on Nintendo DS and Nintendo Game Cube.
The firm's goal is to reduce the period between Japanese and Western release, reversing the threat of grey imports. Thanks to Rising Star's close working relationship with its development partners, there will even be occasions where the European release is ahead of the Japanese street date.
The first trio of titles sees Bubble Bobble and Space Invaders appear in significantly enhanced form on Nintendo DS, along with Sword of Destiny on PS2. A new Evolution series will be introduced on PSP later in the year, which will enhance classic franchises further for the new Sony handheld.
Space Invaders Revolution takes the much-loved original format and enhances it for the Nintendo DS with a host of new game modes and challenges, all wrapped up in next-generation handheld visuals and audio.
Bubble Bobble Revolution will make full use of the Nintendo DS's touch screen, offering players the opportunity to interact with the game's vibrant environments in spectacular and innovative ways.
Sword of Destiny is an original PlayStation 2 hack and slash adventure, which offers some of the most finely-honed combat and lavish environments yet seen on the Sony console.
European gamers will be treated to four new iterations of Harvest Moon. Harvest Moon: Oh Wonderful Life will appear on Game Cube and PS2 in September and October 2005 respectively, marking the series' first-ever appearance on a Sony Console. Harvest Moon: Friends of Mineral Town arrives on Game Boy Advance in June 2004, with an all-new Harvest Moon game (working title: Harvest Moon DS) arriving on Nintendo's dual-screen handheld in November 2005. Each of these versions will offer a slightly different twist on the staggeringly popular Harvest Moon theme, and promises to introduce the series' wonderful concept to a whole new audience.
PlayDevil.com makes deal with Plextor
[Category :
You may have seen the logo of Optical Drive manufacturer "Plextor (the king of quality) on our website. Well we have made a partnership with Plextor Europe meaning that from now on, we'll get all information and hardware straight from Plextor Europe to our offices for testing purposes.
And the important thing about the whole deal is also that we'll remove ALL other optical brands that were already in our "Game Machines" and include ONLY Plextor materials.
We'll testing games and other hardware components with Plextor Drives.
This means also that, since Plextor is one of the leading brands in the optical drive segment, you'll get pure quality.
Plextor's latest optical DVD+-RW drive, the PX716A is in right here @ the PlayDevil office, ready to be put on the test bench.
However, this hardware review will not pop up soon. First we do need to review other products such as from hardware manufacturer Logic3.
As soon as they pop up on the site, we'll work on the Plextor 716A drive. Please note that this drive is the first one which can burn DL discs @ 6x!
More info soon on the hardware items in our news page.
MechAssault 2 launched in Shops
[Category :
Microsoft Game Studios announced today that MechAssault® 2: Lone Wolf, the sequel to one of the most popular Xbox® action titles, has shipped to UK retail stores for an estimated retail price of £39.99 (UK). MechAssault 2: Lone Wolf offers gamers a rich BattleMech experience, both offline and online via Xbox LiveTM.
Gamers looking to track their combat history and the current status of the persistent universe of Conquest Mode will be able to do so at the newly launched official site, at http://www.mechassault2.com. This new site allows gamers to not only track their game stats; but also read up on vehicles, 'Mechs and tactics while interacting with other MechAssault 2 fans in the community forums.
MechAssault 2: Lone Wolf was developed by Day 1 Studios, creators of the original MechAssault for Xbox, in conjunction with FASA Studio, the developers of the award-winning MechWarrior and MechCommander series for Windows and Crimson Skies for Xbox. In MechAssault 2: Lone Wolf, gamers can step outside the 'Mech and live the life of a human pilot in a fresh new single player game. Tanks, VTOLs and BattleArmor offer players plenty of opportunities to rain destruction on their opposition in both single and multiplayer games. Xbox Live gamers can enjoy a whole new level of strategy, as BattleArmor-equipped players 'jack enemy 'Mechs and VTOLs drop supplies to their teammates. Both online and off, MechAssault 2: Lone Wolf offers players an unparalleled gaming experience. For more information about MechAssault 2: Lone Wolf, please visit http://mechassault2.xbox.com.
Massive Game Release List ONLINE!
[Category :
We have updated our "Game Release List" today and included over 100 new dates for games on PC, Xbox and GameCube.
It is a massive update which we'll update again every quarter since ALL the games are included per quarter.
We hope you find now what you are looking for and hopefully the game you want won't take too long to release!
However, sometimes these dates are not 100% accurate since country releases differs from country to country but the safiest way to know the exact date of a specific game is to call up your local software shop and ASK!
That is so simple but indeed it will cost you a phone call.
In the meantime to get an almost accurate date you might want to check our "Game Release List" out , right here.
New Cold Fear trailer
[Category :
Today, Ubisoft unleashed an electrifying, movie-style trailer for its new horror videogame Cold Fear™. Revealing the eerie details that set up the mysterious storyline, the Cold Fear trailer shocks with action-packed gameplay and suspenseful cinematics pulled directly out from the game. On a ship bound for Hell where anyone could be “DEAD” weight, this trailer displays a new level of gore and haunting realism that is certain to bring viewers’ worst nightmares to life.
Visit the Official Cold Fear website at www.coldfeargame.com to view the trailer.
Players step into the role of Tom Hansen, a U.S. Coast Guard who is sent to board a drifting Russian whaling ship in the middle of a howling storm on the Bering Sea. He arrives only to discover that terrifying surprises await him on the bloodstained decks of the constantly rocking, shifting vessel. Set in a volatile, dynamic environment, players will find themselves overwhelmed by fear as they engage in intense combat with intelligent enemies.
Developed by Darkworks, Cold Fear will launch for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, the Xbox® video game system from Microsoft in March 2005.
Rome: Total War v1.2 Patch
[Category :
A new patch for the game "Rome: Total War" has been released.
It updates your game data to v1.2 and weighs around 56 megs.
Here's a short description:
This is the official v1.2 patch for Rome: Total War which addresses many issues with multiplayer dealing with game stability, performance and some synch issues. You must download the patch to play online.
You can download it right here.
European PSP release may get delayed
[Category :
There is a good chance that Sony won't make it for the European PSP release. Appaerently it has fallen behind in shedule in producing the specific amount of devices.
Here's more info:
Sony has fallen behind Nintendo from its launch as it began selling the PSP in Japan on Dec. 12, a week after Nintendo debuted its latest portable, Nintendo DS.
Sony plans to launch the PSP in the United States on March 24, whereas Nintendo has been selling its DS there since Dec. 2.
The source said Sony still planned to ship 3 million PSPs by March 31, but it was not sure how the distribution of those units would change if the launch in Europe was delayed.
PlayDevil.com News Archive ONLINE!
[Category :
We have created a full working "News Archive" for your pleasure. This archive included ALL the news that we have posted from 'May 2004 to End of January 2005'. Of course every week will be compiled automatically and inserted in the archive.
The archive holds all the newsposts, seperating them per month.
Please note that this is just a BASIC and ROUGH version of the Archive page. We are planning to change here and there to make it more enjoyable for you to read.
We are also looking to add a 'search' function which will let you search anything that you enter in our archive pages.
Our "News Archive" can be viewed from this page here and the link is also posted just underneath the 'Latest Headlines'. And again, the Archive pages are NOT done yet and should be highly optimized within a week.
Greetings!
PlayDevil.com Crew
EA brings The Godfather movies to a game!
[Category :
Electronic Arts and Viacom Consumer Products today announced a videogame based on The Godfather fiction is under development and will put gamers at the center of the action in one of history's most revered masterpieces. The book by Mario Puzo and classic film by Paramount Pictures serve as inspiration for the game as gamers will join the Corleone family and earn respect through loyalty and fear as they rise through the ranks to become Don in a living 1945-1955 New York. The game is scheduled for release in fall 2005 under the EA GAMES brand for the Xbox videogame system from Microsoft, PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system, Sony PSP handheld entertainment system and PC.
Gamers will create their own mob character in the game, putting themselves into the action while reliving classic moments from the fiction and experiencing original missions alongside memorable characters from the film. After a life of small-time jobs and petty thefts the player will be accepted into the Corleone family, America's most famous criminal organization. It will be up to the player to carry out orders, earn respect and make New York City their own.
Featuring non-linear action-adventure gameplay, The Godfather will offer gamers countless choices for solving the family's problems with brutal violence, skillful diplomacy, or a cunning mixture of both. From mob hits and bank heists to drive-bys and extortion, step deep inside the world of The Godfather where intimidation and negotiation are your tickets to the top. Players will use their powers of loyalty and fear to earn respect through interactions with characters in the world. Decisions made by the player in the game will have lasting consequences, just as it was in the mob underworld featured in The Godfather fiction.
Midway will use Unreal Engine 3 for future games
[Category :
Midway Games Inc, a leading developer and publisher of interactive entertainment software, today announced a multi-year licensing agreement with Epic Games giving Midway use of Epic's Unreal Engine 3 technology and tools for next generation console and PC game development.
Unreal Engine 3 technology and tools are now in use at Midway's internal studios including: Midway's Chicago studio, the makers of NBA Ballers and the Mortal Kombat franchise; Midway's Austin studio, developers of Area 51; and Surreal Software, the creators of The Suffering.
LOTR: Battle for Middle Earth v1.01 patch
[Category :
It takes a while but it's getting there. Electronic Arts has released the first patch for The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-earth, bringing this real-time strategy game to v1.01).
The update adds three new multiplayer maps (Northern Ithilien, Black Gate and Eaves of Fangorn), the communicator feature, some gameplay tweaks and bugfixes - press 'read more' for details.
Get it HERE.
Winning Eleven demo
[Category :
The Winning Eleven demo is out! Now soccer fans can finally play this demo.
Weighs around 200 megs and you can download it right here from gamershell.
PSP comes to North America on March 24th
[Category :
Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. announced today the North American launch details for its highly anticipated PSP (PlayStation Portable) handheld entertainment system. Available through retail outlets on March 24, the company continues its consumer-centric legacy with the release of the PSP Value Pack for a suggested retail price of $249.99 U.S./$299.99 CND.
In addition to the revolutionary PSP hardware, the PSP Value Pack contains an unprecedented added-value package of accessories and entertainment content, including 32 MB Memory Stick Duo(TM), headphones with remote control, battery pack, AC adaptor, soft case and cleaning cloth, movie/music/game video sampler UMD disc including multiple non-interactive game demos, and for the first one million PSP Value Packs shipped, a special UMD video release of the feature film Spider-Man 2 from Sony Pictures Entertainment.
Jummy jummy, definitely looking forward to this piece of hardware. We are expecting to witness the Benelux launch next month as well.
More details on MGS 3: Snake Eater
[Category :
Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater – PAL additions confirmed
European versions of Hideo Kojima's classic series enhanced with addition of four key new features
Konami of Europe has confirmed the full roster of gameplay additions to the forthcoming PAL versions of Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater. In total, European gamers will enjoy four new elements, unseen in the existing Japanese and US versions of the game.
Scheduled for release on PlayStation 2 on March 4th, 2005, Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater is already one of the most anticipated games of the year. Set in the 1964, the game is centered in the escalating Cold War, with central hero Snake armed with weapons of the era and charged with recovering a defecting scientist. To this end, series creator and Director Hideo Kojima has moved away from the urban environments of the game's predecessors and has created a lush jungle setting.
In addition to the new environments, Kojima has packed the game with a wealth of new gameplay features. The 'Camouflage Index' lets players change Snake's costume and face paint to match the surrounding area and help evade discovery, while a stunning CQC (Close Quarters Combat) system empowers him with a range of new, offensive moves. This new system facilitates the most advanced hand-to-hand combat techniques in the series to date, with Snake using guards as shields, throwing them or simply rendering them unconscious.
In readiness for the PAL version's March release, Kojima has again added a number of new ideas to the European versions of the game. As with Director's enhanced PAL version of Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty, European gamers will get more Snake for their money than their US and Japanese counterparts in the form of four key new features.
As previously announced, PAL versions of Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater will feature a new 'DUEL MODE' which allows players to battle through the game's 'Boss Fights' independently, and details the rich variety of adversaries Snake faces during the course of the game. A 'DEMO THEATRE' has also been created, and can be used to play the game's stunning link sequences in order to enjoy the many dramatic plot twists in order.
European gamers will also enjoy a new 'European Extreme' difficulty level, which is designed for hardened veterans of Snake's jungle environment, while there are two new levels in the light-hearted 'Snake Vs Monkey' mode, wherein the Metal Gear Solid hero finds himself chasing and trying to catch errant monkeys! The PAL version will also feature many face paint designs not seen in the existing versions of the game, while the winning designs from Konami's global camouflage creation competition will also be included.
Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater will be released for PlayStation 2 on March 4th, 2005.
Shrek 3 game ?
[Category :
Following Shrek 2's ranking as the #1 children's video game in the U.S. for calendar 2004, Activision, Inc. (Nasdaq: ATVI) and DreamWorks Animation (NYSE: DWA) jointly announced that Activision will develop and publish video games based on DreamWorks Animation's upcoming animated theatrical feature film, "Shrek 3," which is scheduled for release in summer 2007.
"Activision is very excited to further expand its licensing agreement with DreamWorks on the third installment in the blockbuster animated series," said Ron Doornink, CEO of Activision Publishing, Inc. "Shrek has proven to be one of the most popular children's video game properties worldwide and we expect to continue building on the success of the franchise with the release of our upcoming game Shrek SuperSlam and future games."
In addition to "Shrek 2" and "Shrek 3," Activision also holds the exclusive interactive rights to publish games based on DreamWorks' computer-animated feature film "Shark Tale," as well as DreamWorks Animation's "Madagascar," which is scheduled to open in the U.S. on May 27, 2005 and "Over the Hedge," which is to be released in 2006.
Nvidia Geforce 6 GPUS receive industry acclaim
[Category :
Latest Market Share Numbers from Mercury Research and Jon Peddie Research Show NVIDIA GPU Market Share on the Rise
LONDON — FEBRUARY 2ND, 2005 — NVIDIA Corporation (Nasdaq: NVDA), a worldwide leader in graphics and digital media processors, today announced that its GeForceTM 6 graphics processing units (GPUs) for desktop and mobile PCs have won over 150 editorial awards and have achieved a marked increase in unit sales. This momentum is the result of technology innovations, performance and compatibility with today's hottest games.
According to Mercury Research, from the third quarter to the fourth quarter of calendar year 2004, NVIDIA achieved a quarter-to-quarter unit growth increase of over 20% for total GPU unit shipments, which inc