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] [Posted by Bjorn on Thursday, May 31 2007 @ 16:26 CET]Mad Tracks available on Xbox Live Arcade
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The 3D racing party game, “Mad Tracks,” will be available for download on Xbox LIVE® Arcade for Xbox 360™ beginning Wednesday 30th May, at 09:00 BST.
Players can race through 15 challenges consisting of nine mini-games and six different races behind the wheel of one of 12 sleek compact cars. “Mad Tracks,” from Load Inc., features 12 power-ups to keep engines revved up and players in the fast lane ahead of the competition.
Whether it’s in the kitchen, living room, ballroom or open road, players can opt to burn rubber just about anywhere, and share the lanes with up to three other drivers in frantic multiplayer racing action over Xbox LIVE. Be sure to buckle up for both Championship and Arcade modes, as “Mad Tracks” offers a high-definition, 3D racing experience to remember.
Enjoy the robust, full game features of “Mad Tracks” this Wednesday, and also be on the lookout for new tracks coming soon. You can double and even triple the challenges in “Mad Tracks” with the Bravo and Encore expansion packs, arriving in the near future. For about half the price of the full game, players will be able to add additional races and mini-games to "Mad Tracks" by downloading the Bravo and/or Encore expansion packs. Each expansion pack includes an additional 15 nail-biting races and action-filled mini games for 350 Microsoft Points each, extending the fun and offering a great value.
Game Features
· 15 distinct challenges (6 races & 9 mini-games) provide a full-fledged racing game experience
· 12 stackable power-ups (rockets, freezer, oil drop, EMP and more!)
· 12 sleek looking cars to choose from
· 4 player multiplayer over Xbox LIVE and 4 player local multiplayer via split screen mode
· Championship mode & Arcade mode
· 2 free gamer pictures
· Earn up to 12 Achievements and 200 Gamerscore points
Where can I get “Mad Tracks” from?
“Mad Tracks” is available worldwide (except for Korea) from Wednesday 30th May on Xbox LIVE Arcade for 800 MS points. It is rated 3+.
New Episodic game from American McGee, "Grimm"
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Thursday, May 31 2007 @ 16:25 CET]
GameTap, the first-of-its-kind broadband entertainment network from Turner Broadcasting System, Inc, announced today the latest addition to the GameTap Originals line-up, American McGee’s Grimm.
The title cements GameTap’s leadership position as a digital publisher and pioneer in episodic games. The 24 episode series will debut in the spring of 2008.
“American McGee is one of the best known and most dynamic developers in the industry today and Grimm is the perfect fit with our GameTap Originals brand,” said Ricardo Sanchez, GameTap’s VP of content. “American is really exploring the potential of episodic game development. Adding this exciting new title to our list of already successful episodic game titles shows our commitment to this proven format.”
In keeping with American’s distinct development style on his smash hit game American McGee’s Alice, fans can expect the same twisted treatment of children’s classics, in addition to a fantastical art style, and groundbreaking gameplay elements. American McGee’s Grimm is a narrative-driven, action-adventure game which immerses the player in a world built around some of the best known tales from the Brothers Grimm, including Rapunzel, Rumplestiltskin, Little Red Riding Hood, and Snow White.
“My interpretation of these classic fables will provide gamers with an entertaining and interactive way of experiencing how the stories were originally meant to unfold,” said American McGee, creative director for Spicy Horse. “The ‘chapters’ inherently lend themselves to the new episodic model that GameTap has perfected.”
American McGee’s Grimm is a story-driven action-adventure game. The player interacts with a compelling collection of vividly drawn characters inhabiting a world built around twisted takes on the best-known tales in Western fiction. The game combines familiar exploration and questing conventions with a thematically inspired fighting mechanic based on the notion that “words are weapons”.
Players will experience the game in a sandbox world which contains missions assigned in episodic fashion. Game and narrative concepts equivalent to TV cliffhangers will be used to create game play and story interest to encourage players to keep up with new releases.
Majesco Entertainment Announces Kengo Zero for 360
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Majesco Entertainment Company today announced Kengo Zero for the Xbox® 360™ video game entertainment system from Microsoft. Developed by Genki and scheduled for an autumn release, Kengo Zero sets players in feudal Japan on a mission to become the best samurai warrior in the land.
“Kengo Zero’s stunning high definition graphics bring the game’s nine real samurai to life,” said John Merchant, Marketing Manager, Majesco Europe. “With its 2-player head-to-head mode, attribute upgrades and fighter customization, Kengo Zero gives every player the opportunity to be the fighter they want to be and to test their metal against the very best.”
Kengo Zero features nine real samurai warriors: Musashi Miyamoto, Jubei Yagyu and Sanako Chiba, among others. Each has his/her own storyline, attack techniques and upgradeable attributes (health, stamina, attack power and defense). Four modes of play offer a range of gameplay options, including the storyline advancing Main Mode; Mission Mode which challenges players to complete 10 missions within a specific time frame; Combat Mode that features two-player, head-to-head battles; and Xbox Live Leaderboard where players compete for new equipment and the best ranking against other Xbox Live gamers by pitting AI profiles against each other.
Mushroom Men Onto The Wii And Nintendo DS
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Thursday, May 31 2007 @ 15:59 CET]
Today Gamecock Media Group has announced the fanatical fungi war of Red Fly Studio’s Mushroom Men will take place on the Wii and Nintendo DS.
Mushroom Men utilizes all the unique control elements of both systems, allowing for amazing gameplay that draws players into an incredibly lush and treacherous stylized world.
"From the minute we signed Mushroom Men, we've worked to bring it to the Wii and DS," said Rick Stults, Console Chief for Gamecock Media Group. "Both platforms are going to give Mushroom Men a life of their own as Red Fly Studio is building unique stories specific to each system."
Mushroom Men gives players the opportunity to jump into the fantastic microcosm that is the backyard battlefield. Take control of the crusade, creating devastating weapons from everyday items and teaming up with other sentient plant forms that'll leave the enemy sliced and diced. Let the stylus be your rapier and the Wii Remote™ your bazooka as you cut down the multitude of household pests that threaten our very existence!
Flex your brain with Big Brain Academy for Wii
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Thursday, May 31 2007 @ 15:58 CET]
Big Brain Academy for Wii launches across Europe on 20th July 2007 and is part of Nintendo’s Touch! Generations range of games, designed for people of all ages, gender and gaming experience.
Big Brain Academy for Wii contains a selection of quirky and exciting mini-games which are designed around the Wii Remote pointer making them quick and intuitive to control. The mini-games are divided into five categories: Visualise, Memorise, Analyse, Compute and Identify and contain a variety of activities ranging from, for example, bursting numbered balloons in order to arrange pieces of a train track to allow the train to reach a specific area. All of these allow you to push your brain by answering them as quickly as possible, whilst maintaining accuracy and with three different difficulty settings to choose from, this title will provide a challenge for the whole family.
Guided by Dr Lobe (a talking brain lobe complete with spectacles and a mortar board hat!), you begin the game by creating a profile and enrolling your Mii character in the academy. This allows you to record your results within the game and keep track of your progress in each category. In the single player Test mode, you play through all five categories after which Dr Lobe will calculate your Big Brain Academy brain weight based on your reaction speed and number of correct answers. In addition, you will be given a grade for your Student Record, where all game data is saved, and a spider graph is generated showing you your individual strengths and weaknesses within the game in these five areas.
Play the Test mode often and you will be able to chart your progress in your Student Record and watch your Big Brain Academy brain weight get heavier as you do better in the mini-games. If you would like to put in some practise, you can use the practice mode to play any game at any difficulty level and Dr Lobe will award medals for high achievement!
The three multiplayer modes in Big Brain Academy allow you to test your brain against up to eight other people – perfect for challenging your friends and family! Mind Sprint allows two players to go head-to-head in a split-screened race, where up to eight players can play as two teams. With rounds of up to 24 games to play in each match, it will really be a battle of the brains! Other multiplayer activities include the Mental Marathon where players must attempt to keep a perfect score throughout games and the Brain Quiz, which allows players to select and perform a random selection of 12 mini-games or categories while attempting to keep their perfect record intact. These mini-games include activities such as the Memory activity: Order Out where players must memorise a list of food items that are dictated from the Wii Remote speaker, to the Think activity: Frame Filler where players have to fit the missing piece in an animated puzzle.
Big Brain Academy for Wii allows players to send and receive student record books with friends who also own the game, from all over the world, using WiiConnect24. Players will then be able to compete against them in Mind Sprint mode where Wii then uses the player’s student record to work out how well they would perform and sets the activities accordingly.
Join the Big Brain Academy for Wii when it launches across Europe on 20th July 2007, at the estimated retail price of around £35.
Hour of Victory demo available on Xbox Live Marketplace
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Thursday, May 31 2007 @ 15:57 CET]
Midway's highly anticipated World War II FPS title, Hour of Victory is now live and playable for the first time via Xbox LIVE® Marketplace with an exciting single-player teaser demo, which provides a glimpse of what's to come when it hits shelves in June 2007.
The Hour of Victory demo will give the player a sneak peak into the rugged North African level. Players will be able to pick any of the three characters in the game, the Covert Operative, specializing in stealth and sabotage; a British Commando specializing in the guns-blazing frontal assault; or an Army Ranger who specializes in sniping and demolitions.
In addition to the demo, Midway has also released new Hour of Victory screenshots.
Hour of Victory allows you to play a key role in the pivotal and cinematic battles from the European and North African theaters of World War II, using the skills and gameplay style you choose. Sneak into enemy territory as a covert operative, storm the gates as a British Commando, or snipe from afar as an Army Ranger. Each character's unique attributes will be needed for the fulfillment of the overall objective. Only with all these skills working closely together will you be able to say that you helped define the Hour of Victory.
Built using the powerful Unreal® Engine 3.0, Hour of Victory combines authentic details from historic World War II battles and adds in frenetic and cinematic gameplay. Players will also be able to take control of any vehicle on the battlefield whenever they wish as they sharpen their skills to impact the key battles from the European and North African Theaters.
EA shifts gears with Need for Speed ProStreet
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Electronic Arts announced today that the blockbuster Need for Speed franchise is introducing a new version that drives the series in a new direction. Need for Speed ProStreet is a ground-breaking Need for Speed experience where you’re thrust to compete head to head against the best street racers in a multitude of racing showdowns. The game is being developed by EA Black Box in Vancouver, B.C., and is slated to ship this fall.
“Need for Speed ProStreet accelerates street racing culture by providing the ultimate stage for the pursuit of street racing supremacy,” said Executive Producer, Larry LaPierre. “This is a game about building the ultimate performance-tuned battle machine, taking it to multi-disciplinary showdowns all over the world and pitting your skills and reputation against the very best street racers.”
Need for Speed ProStreet boasts impeccable precision and impressively detailed photo-realistic graphics, effectively transporting you to the center of the action. It pushes the “Autosculpt™” technology to a new level, allowing you to directly impact your car’s performance for the first time as well as personalize its appearance. Need for Speed ProStreet is a true taste of raw adrenaline and racing with consequences. Every dent, every scratch and every crumpled body panel is a battle scar, proof of your commitment and competitive mettle. With an aggressive and skilled AI system, you become immersed in an unmatched believable race experience. Add in a revolutionary online mode that will redefine the meaning of competitive social play, and Need for Speed ProStreet is the ultimate formula for an emotionally charged street racing showdown.
Need for Speed ProStreet will be available for Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system, PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system, and Wii™ as well as the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, Nintendo DS™, PSP® (PlayStation® Portable) handheld entertainment system, PC and mobile.
New American Virtual Console Wii titles
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It's the end of a three-day weekend, but there's still time to cram some last-minute gaming into your life. And what better way to do that than to go on a quest?
Today the Wii Shop Channel on the Wii™ home video game system from Nintendo offers three questing opportunities for folks who aren't quite ready to surrender their weekends: battling an evil dude and regaining your godly powers; rescuing your friends, who have been sucked into a video game; and rescuing "a wealthy man who's been kidnapped."
The three new classic games go live at 9 a.m. Pacific time. Nintendo adds new games to the channel every Monday. Wii owners with a high-speed Internet connection can redeem Wii Points™ to download the games. Wii Points can be purchased in the Wii Shop Channel or at retail outlets. This week's new games are:
ActRaiser™ (SNES®, 1 player, 800 Wii Points): A masterpiece of game design originally released in the early days of the Super Nintendo Entertainment System®, ActRaiser's enduring popularity stems from its revolutionary combination of action- and simulation-based game play. The user plays the role of the Master, a dethroned deity whose once-idyllic world has fallen under the control of the Evil One. Stripped of godly power, the Master must somehow put an end to the Evil One's reign and rebuild his desolate realm. Game play alternates between two modes: Action and Simulation. In Action mode, the Master must battle against impossible odds to pacify six lands. Pacifying a land unlocks Simulation mode. In this mode, the Master must oversee the development and repopulation of the territory he has reclaimed. In doing so, he will gain followers who gradually restore his godly might, empowering him to take back the next land and, ultimately, defeat the Evil One.
Kid Chameleon™ (Sega Genesis, 1-2 players, 800 Wii Points): The local arcade is packed with kids, all lining up to play the latest, most realistic video game they've ever seen. It's called Wild Side, and it uses holographic images to immerse the player in a strange world. But there's a problem... Kids are literally getting sucked into the game, and now several of them are trapped. Throughout more than 100 levels, you'll take on several different forms, such as a Berzerker, a Micromax, a Maniaxe or a Skycutter, which will make you much more powerful. It's up to you, Kid Chameleon, the best gamer in town, to get yourself inside the game so that you can defeat the game's boss and bring your friends back to reality.
J.J. & JEFF (TurboGrafx16, 1 player, 600 Wii Points): This comical action game features two bungling detectives, J.J. and JEFF, as they travel through a total of six fields. One day, a request comes into their office to take a case that requires them to "rescue a wealthy man who's been kidnapped." Choose between the two characters and set off alone to outwit your partner and save the day. Each field is broken down into four areas, where enemies, as well as your partner, will try to keep you from your goal. There are many items throughout each area. Kick around in various locations to make them appear. Jump and spray-paint your way toward your goal. If you find a hidden room, you can regain health while being completely entertained by its short sketch and surreal allure.
Xbox Live problems with Pro Evolution Soccer 6
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Konami Digital Entertainment GmbH has been made aware that a small number of customers playing Pro Evolution Soccer 6 are facing connectivity issues wherein online game sessions are halted during game play on Xbox LIVE.
Microsoft is currently working actively with Konami on this issue.
We'll keep you posted when anything changes.
Tank Beat rolls into stores on the Nintendo DS
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Friday, May 25 2007 @ 17:12 CET]
O3 Entertainment today announced that Tank Beat, for the Nintendo DS, has shipped to retail outlets across North America.
Tank Beat™ is a touch based mechanized battle game that takes players through each fight in a variety of tanks and armored vehicles. Playable in single or multi player modes, the game features armored, airborne, and sea opponents in forest, winter, and urban terrains.
Developed by Milestone Inc., Tank Beat™ is entirely stylus-based. As you draw tracks and fire on the DS’s bottom screen game map, your tank appears and responds on the top screen. “Tank Beat™ is an armored enthusiast’s dream,” said Mike Pepe, Product Manager O3 Entertainment. “With a full arsenal of tanks to choose from it is critical to pick the right tank for each battle. Tank Beat™ is very balanced in that each tank has a weakness that can and does get exploited by other vehicles in the game.”
The Single Player Story mode revolves around tank commander, Vill Katjue. Freshly minted from the academy, Katjue is thrown into battle after his country is invaded and occupied by an aggressive neighbor. Players will have to link up with resistance tank platoons and take the battle back to the invaders. Mission objectives feature capturing assets, destroying military units or fortifications, protecting civilian allies, and more. Players are also given command and control of allied vehicles throughout the campaign to aid in the country’s reclamation. Successful missions yield unlocked tanks and armored vehicles players can use in future missions or in multiplayer Battle Mode.
Skirmish and multiplayer modes take the action further. Skirmish mode allows players to practice on any of the maps and tanks that were unlocked in Story Mode plus unlock additional tanks on three exclusive stages. Multiplayer mode is a free-for-all which pitches up to 4 players against each other in either wireless head to head action or via the Nintendo® Wi-Fi Connection.
Insecticide for PC and Nintendo DS ?
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Today Gamecock Media Group announced Crackpot Entertainment’s Insecticide will be released on PC and the Nintendo DS™ system this holiday season. The classically styled action adventure detective game brings the look and feel of gritty gumshoe films into a futuristic city where insects have become the dominant race.
Insecticide’s gameplay puts players in the shoes of bug detectives charged with the task of investigating a mystery of epic proportions. Players will discover gameplay elements reminiscent of classic adventure titles, and action elements that will get the heart racing. Every aspect of the game brings players into a totally interactive world to discover, allowing them to put together and utilize clues to their fullest extent in hunting down culprits. Bringing the game to both PC and Nintendo DS opens a plethora of options and expands the possibilities of scenarios players will find themselves in. The unique input options of PC and Nintendo DS will allow for precise navigation to investigate environments and expertly control special talents of the characters.
“The heart of classic detective novels and movies is to get the audience involved mentally, but now via PC and the Nintendo DS we can get players involved in a much more tactile arena,” said Rick Stults, Console Chief for Gamecock Media Group. “The mouse and the stylus are the key to the ‘touch and feel’ experience we’re really aiming for with this game and I think that’s something players are really going to enjoy.”
Insecticide’s interactive environments are fully realized in realtime 3D on the Nintendo DS and the wide array of in-game items, clues and weapons assure hours of entertainment either at home or on the go. Additionally, players on the Nintendo DS will be able to team up with friends and other comrades in arms for multiplayer action. Never before has a crime world had this much buzz.
PlayDevil reviews Trackmania United for PC
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It seems like developer "Nadeo" release a new Trackmania game every five minutes, and whilst they are always fun (and in the case of Trackmania nations, free!), is the series starting to lose its edge?
Welcome to "Trackmania United", the latest in the series and while the Trackmania games were always lots of fun (multiplayer, creating your own tracks, etc), we hope that Nadeo delivers something extra this time otherwise a lot of Trackmania gamers could be disappointed.
We tested the full retail game and our review can of "Trackmania United" can be read right here.
Stay tuned for more "devilish" reviews on PlayDevil.com
New European Virtual Console Wii games
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This week sees NES classic Super Mario Bros. 2™ hop onto the Virtual Console. In this 1989 classic, Mario, Luigi, Peach and Toad go for a picnic which doesn’t quite go to plan when they end up in the mysterious land of Subcon. Obliged to save it from the curse of filthy frog tyrant, Wart, players must use each of the four main characters and their own special ability to battle through seven worlds and free the land from Wart’s evil grasp! Super Mario Bros. 2 is available to download now for just 500 Wii Points!
If you feel like something a little more turbo-charged this week then get ready for Mach Rider™. Set in 2112, Earth has been invaded by evil quad bikers who are bent on destroying everything. Players must assume the role of Mach Rider, the world’s last hope, and travel from area to area destroying any quad bikers they encounter. Mach Rider, which was originally released on the NES in 1987, also features a level design mode enabling players to create their own courses. Unique to the Virtual Console version, players can save these creations to enjoy over and over again. Mach Rider is available now for 500 Wii Points.
Finally this week is Blazing Lazers, originally released in 1989 for the Turbografx. This vertical scrolling shoot ‘em up achieved critical acclaim when it was first released. Now it’s available on Virtual Console featuring nine levels of non-stop shooting action in the darkest depths of space. Players can choose from four weapon types including bullets, waves and rings, each of which can be upgraded making them even more deadly. Blazing Lazers blasts its way onto the Virtual Console for 600 Wii Points.
Mario Strikers: Charged Football launches today on Wii
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Pull on your team colours and prepare for kick-off, as your favourite Nintendo characters take to the pitch. With the rulebook well and truly torn up, Mario Strikers: Charged Football combines football, combat and Wi-Fi gaming to form the ultimate extreme sport. Mario Strikers Charged: Football kicks its way onto Wii across Europe this Friday, 25th May.
Precision passing, skilful saves and phenomenal goals are not all that make up the beautiful game as Mario Strikers: Charged Football adds that little bit extra to one of Europe’s favourite sports. All the rules are gone, as Nintendo introduces a whole new type of football to Wii, where fouled players get special treats with which to avenge themselves and devastating special moves replace set-plays as the ideal way to score!
Mario Strikers: Charged Football is the first Wii game in Europe to use the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection service adding a whole new level of competition to the game as players can take on opponents from across Europe to find the champion of the pitch! Players can also compete in ranked tournaments, earning points for each win and the most spectacular goal scored.
With Mario Strikers: Charged Football players can choose whether they want an international match or home nations tournament! Players can select which friends they want to take on in Friendly Mode, by swapping Friend Codes and creating their own personal championship. What’s more, by using their Mii characters to save individual game profiles, multiple players can save their records and settings allowing the whole family to compete using just one Wii console.
Players can immerse themselves deep into the action with Mario Strikers: Charged Football as the Wii Remote and Nunchuk allow real movement to be translated into on-screen action. Basic movement and strikes are executed using the analogue stick and buttons on the Wii Remote, however when quick reactions are needed, players can just flick the Wii Remote which causes the character to check their opponent, hopefully stealing the ball in the process. Players can also use the Wii Remote to perform cat-like saves, defending their goal from Megastrikes by grabbing the ball out of the air.
So forget about fair play and shoot for glory as Mario Strikers: Charged Football launches across Europe on 25th May 2007, for the estimated retail price of around £30.
Geometry Wars coming to Nintendo DS and Wii !
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Sierra Entertainment, a division of Vivendi Games, announced today that Geometry Wars™: Galaxies, a 2D arcade shooter game, will be coming to Nintendo exclusively on the Wii Console and Nintendo DS system.
The Geometry Wars: Galaxies videogame is developed by Kuju Entertainment (Surrey) and is the follow-up to Bizarre Creations’ Xbox LIVE® Arcade sensation, Geometry Wars: Retro Evolved.
The Geometry Wars: Galaxies videogame delivers an all new mission-based campaign where players blast-off on action-paced quests across the galaxy, defending solar systems one by one, defeating waves of alien enemies on new and classic Battle Grids. The controls have been optimized for Nintendo systems, allowing gamers to use the Wii Remote™ and Nunchuk™ controller or DS touch screen to execute hotshot moves as never before.
For the first time ever, the Geometry Wars videogame will let players battle via hot seat, co-op, simultaneous and versus in multiplayer mode. Those that own both the Nintendo DS and Wii can link the game together using Wi-Fi to unlock bonus content. Elite players will be able to challenge the universe by posting high scores on the Wii’s online leader board.
The Geometry Wars: Galaxies videogame also includes the full version of Geometry Wars: Retro Evolved, winner of IGN’s 2005 Best XBLA Title of The Year.
“The Geometry Wars: Galaxies videogame is an entertaining title blending old-school arcade fun with next-gen gameplay and action,” said Al Simone, SVP of Global Marketing for Sierra Entertainment. “We are excited to bring the Geometry Wars brand to the Nintendo platform as both the Wii and DS enable a fun and frenetic experience for gamers.”
Demo of Hour Of Victory next week on Xbox360 Marketplace !
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Midway's highly anticipated World War II FPS title, Hour of Victory, will be live and playable for the first time next week via Xbox LIVE® Marketplace.
Midway will release an exciting single-player teaser demo on Wednesday, May 30, providing a glimpse of the game's cinematic and frenetic gameplay in advance of Hour of Victory's march to retail stores in June.
The Hour of Victory demo will give the player a sneak peak into the rugged North African level. Players will be able to pick any of the three characters in the game, the Covert Operative, specializing in stealth and sabotage; a British Commando specializing in the guns-blazing frontal assault; or an Army Ranger who specializes in sniping and demolitions.
Hour of Victory allows you to play a key role in the pivotal and cinematic battles from the European and North African theaters of World War II, using the skills and gameplay style you choose. Sneak into enemy territory as a covert operative, storm the gates as a British Commando, or snipe from afar as an Army Ranger. Each character's unique attributes will be needed for the fulfillment of the overall objective. Only with all these skills working closely together will you be able to say that you helped define the Hour of Victory.
Built using the powerful Unreal® Engine 3.0, Hour of Victory combines authentic details from historic World War II battles and adds in frenetic and cinematic gameplay. Players will also be able to take control of any vehicle on the battlefield whenever they wish as they sharpen their skills to impact the key battles from the European and North African Theaters.
Microsoft proudly presents... HALO 2 for Windows Vista
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Microsoft Games Studios today announced the eagerly awaited Halo 2 for Windows Vista, will be available on 8th June. The sequel to Halo: Combat Evolved brings Master Chief to Windows Vista™ allowing PC gamers to play the critically acclaimed Halo phenomenon against others for the first time.
Halo 2 for Windows Vista is a first person action shooter that takes place in the same science fiction universe as Halo, where humans have occupied numerous worlds due to the development of superluminal travel. More than 32 years before the beginning of Halo 2, the outer colony world of Harvest was destroyed by a collection of alien races, called the Covenant. Since then, the humans and covenant have been locked into a bloody war. Shortly before the events of Halo 2, the Master Chief heads to Earth after destroying a covenant fleet to warn of an impending covenant attack on humanity’s home planet.
The game features an expanded range of vehicles as well as other gameplay changes to its predecessor. For example, in Halo 2 for Windows Vista the health bar is no longer visible on-screen. Instead, health regenerates slowly, if the player is not taking a beating!
Halo 2 for Windows Vista also features more than 14 human and alien weapons with players allowed to carry two weapons at a time, each weapon having advantages and disadvantages in different combat situations.
Master Chief is calling out for your help! So shoot on down to your nearest store and buy a copy of Halo 2 for Windows Vista for £34.99 and show the LIVE community what you are made of!
Nintendo announces Puzzle League for DS
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It’s time to put your thinking cap on and get your stylus at the ready as Puzzle League DS works its way into Europe this summer! This block-sliding puzzle game will have you thinking on your feet as you try to ensure that the rising bricks don’t stack up and reach the top of the screen! Puzzle League DS launches across Europe on 29th June 2007.
With no complicated rules to master, Puzzle League DS can be enjoyed by anyone just wanting to pick up and play, but it also provides challenges for even the most practised of players. As multi-coloured blocks rise from the bottom of the screen, players must rearrange individual blocks and attempt to line up three or more of the same colour. If a player is successful then the blocks will disappear.
To perfect your puzzling skills, planning and strategic thinking are crucial as the levels become harder and blocks begin to fall faster. To survive players must aim to clear as many blocks as they can in one go to get the highest score possible. For the more advanced player, blocks can also be moved while other blocks vanish, allowing them to set up a chain reaction and gain more points. However, if players aren’t quick enough, the stack will reach the top and it will be game over!
Holding the Nintendo DS vertically like a book, players use the touch screen and stylus to slide and move blocks around with ease or if preferred, players can hold the DS horizontally and use the button controls.
In the game’s single player mode, players can choose from a choice of taxing puzzles including Garbage Challenge, which involves clearing falling garbage blocks whilst aiming for a high score, Vs.com which sees gamers playing against the DS, Time Attack where players race against the clock to clear the screen and Daily Play, which challenges players to complete tests from three modes every day.
Players who would rather compete against friends can use the local wireless connection. This allows up to four people to battle with only one copy of the game, meaning multiplayer does not require multiple game cards. For the ultimate challenge, why not pit your brain against players from other countries? Nintendo DS’s unique Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection means that players with a wireless internet connection can battle against other gamers online and improve their ranking! Once players have exchanged ‘Friend Codes’, they can challenge other players in ‘Friend Battle.’
If you’re keen to become the ultimate player, there are additional items you can use to put your opponent off! Reflect, where all garbage is sent to your opponent, Twitch which makes your opponent’s blocks shuffle for a short time or Paralyse, where one of your opponent’s rows is made immovable! These items are available in multiplayer modes and when playing against the computer, allowing you to confuse and challenge your opponent to the very maximum!
Puzzle League DS slides across Europe on the 29th June 2007 at the estimated retail price of around £20.
Colin McRae: DIRT playable demos out now!
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It’s time to hit the tracks and taste the dirt as Codemasters launches the Colin McRae: DIRT™ playable demo, now available to download from Xbox LIVE® Marketplace for the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft®.
There’s also a PC edition of the demo, complete with a multiplayer event, available from www.codemasters.com/dirt.
Confirmed for release on the 15th June 2007 across all PAL territories, Colin McRae: DIRT™ takes the rally king off-road in a multitude of mud-splattered race events and the demos deliver three to experience right now. There are Crossover, Hill Climb and C.O.R.R. (Championship Off-Road Racing) events in the Xbox 360 demo. The PC demo swaps mountains for multiplayer and enables up to 100 players to go head-to-head in a race for the best time over a point-to-point rally stage.
On both Xbox 360 and PC demos, the first event is a Crossover race with players competing against Colin McRae himself. Set in Germany, the Avelsbachring’s smooth but twisty tarmac is the perfect battleground for a pair of Subaru Impreza WRX STI spec Cs; McRae’s car complete with his 2006 Summer X-Games No Fear livery. Then, with nine other racers aggressively competing for position, it’s a fierce C.O.R.R. competition in V8 650hp buggies at the Bark River Off Road Raceway, Michigan.
Next, the Xbox 360 demo takes players for a race to the skies with a Hill Climb event. Churning gravel in a Mitsubishi Evo IX, players race the final 1000 feet of Windy Point in the soaring heat of Arizona. The PC demo switches the hill race for an all-new multiplayer high, which sees up to 100 players competing for the record on the Sardinian rally stage at Mounte di li Conchi.
Colin McRae: DIRT™ is scheduled to skid into stores on the 15th June 2007 for Xbox 360 and PC with a PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system edition following shortly after.
Rayman Raving Rabbids 2 only for Nintendo Systems !
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Yesterday, Ubisoft, one of the world’s largest video game publishers, announced Rayman Raving Rabbids™ 2 exclusively for the Wii™ and Nintendo DS™ systems. T
hose mischievous bunnies are back in a hilarious sequel, a party comedy game that is guaranteed to be even crazier and funnier than the first with even more insane games to play. Rayman Raving Rabbids 2 will push the envelope of the Wii gameplay experience by continuing to make innovative use of the Wii Remote™. It will deliver fun, intuitive games that feature the wacky humor that Rayman and the Rabbids are known for. In development at Ubisoft’s Paris studio, Rayman Raving Rabbids 2 is scheduled for a fall 2007 release.
“The first Rayman Raving Rabbids was a huge critical and commercial success worldwide,” said John Parkes, director of marketing for Ubisoft. “Rayman Raving Rabbids 2 is poised to continue that success, as gamers can’t seem to get enough of those crazy bunnies; they’re just so popular!”
About Rayman Raving Rabbids 2
After invading the world of Rayman, the insane Rabbids have a new objective: THE INVASION OF PLANET EARTH! Setting their home base at a shopping mall, the Rabbids try to study human behavior and mimic everything humans do in funny, illogical ways. As part of their training, the Rabbids must carry out several missions around the globe to prepare themselves for world domination. Rayman will attempt to infiltrate the Rabbids, disguised as one of them, in a mission to foil their crazy plans and save Earth. Game features include:
• New wacky games - 60 brand-new games that spoof popular culture and are even wackier than those featured in the first Rayman Raving Rabbids.
• Unique use of the Wii Remote – Discover new, innovative ways to play, with eight types of gameplay, including shaking, precision, dexterity and balance.
• Travel around the world - Take Rayman on a world tour to defend Earth from the Rabbids invasion. Travel to five different regions such as the USA, Europe and Asia, where players will challenge the Rabbids in the local environments.
• Customize Rayman and the Rabbids - Use more than 110 items (skins, hats, accessories and clothes) to dress Rayman and create your own Rabbids. Unleash your creativity with over 540K customization combinations.
• Multiplayer experience – Play co-op or battle up to three friends in all the games unlocked in the single-player campaign.
Kirby is back on DS with Kirby Mouse Attack
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Kirby’s back and this time he’s wreaking revenge on a collection of thieving mice! In this platform game, Kirby must find his way to the exit door of each level, eliminating enemies and finding treasure along the way. This adventure makes full use of the Nintendo DS dual screen and allows players to challenge up to three others in three exciting games using the DS’s local wireless network.
Kirby Mouse Attack launches on the Nintendo DS across the UK on 22nd June!
It’s another day in Dreamland and Kirby is about to sit down and enjoy a tasty picnic of strawberry shortcake when it is snatched by a group of mice known as the Squeak Squad! Along with Kirby’s shortcake they also make off with a whole host of Dreamland treasures. Kirby sets out to get his shortcake and treasures back from the mice and embarks on a journey that will see him chase them through over 50 levels and eight huge worlds, developing new skills as he goes. In addition, Kirby must use his skills to overcome a menacing boss fight at the end of each level!
Kirby is more equipped to battle the squeak squad and win than ever before! With 25 abilities that can be upgraded, including new ones such as bubble and tornado, Kirby is able to defeat even the most cunning of enemies. Unlike previous Kirby adventures, players can use these abilities to affect their environment, for example burn trees and grass with the fire ability, or freeze water with the ice ability. These abilities can be mixed and matched using the stylus to drag them together in Kirby’s tummy, depicted on the touch screen.
Another aspect of the mixing and storing ability allows Kirby to acquire subparts of a bonus power item, for example collecting three mini-Kirbys will give Kirby another life, whilst collecting three stars generates a large star that can be used for temporary invincibility!
All the definitive features of the Kirby series are included and players can expect lots of the much-loved floating, jumping and battling they are used to. As usual Kirby can swallow almost all enemies and either assimilate their powers or use them as projectiles by spitting them out. In addition to this, each level contains up to three treasure chests which players must endeavour to collect to complete the ultimate goal of the game. These chests have keys which unlock secret levels and worlds as well as give the player the ability to change Kirby’s colour and unlock other additional game content.
Kirby Mouse Attack also features a multiplayer mode in which players can compete against their friends and test their reaction speed in any of three mini-games, Speedy Teatime, Smash Ride and Treasure Shot.
Kirby: Mouse Attack is ‘jam-packed’ with fun and amusement and launches across Europe on 22nd June 2007 at an estimated retail price of around £30.
New details on upcoming Guitar Hero III !
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After warming their amps in the basement garage to rocking sold out shows at Stonehenge, fans of Activision wildly popular Guitar Hero™ franchise will now be able to shred like never before with the next iteration of the game that will be available this fall.
The new game will be released on the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system and PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system, Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, and Wii™ video game system from Nintendo.
Turning it up to 11, Guitar Hero fans will channel their inner rock god using Gibson Guitar’s Les Paul and Kramer models as the industry standard. In addition, players will experience an incredible number of newly added features and explosive content including a new multiplayer action-inspired battle mode, grueling boss battles, a bevy of exclusive unlockable content and authentic rock venues. Expanded online multiplayer game modes will also allow axe-shredders worldwide to compete head-to-head for true legendary rock status.
While continuing to retain all the key features from their prior legendary performances, fresh downloadable content will be offered on multiple platforms, and players can now shred to a killer set list from many of the gnarliest rock songs ever recorded. Delivering more master tracks than ever before, strategic partnerships have been secured with all the major and independent music record labels and publishers to allow unrivaled access to their deep history of music catalogs, along with supplying artists’ original recordings for even greater authenticity.
The initial list of face-melting awesomeness includes:
• Paint It Black (by The Rolling Stones)
• Cherub Rock (by Smashing Pumpkins)
• Sabotage (by Beastie Boys)
• The Metal (by Tenacious D)
• My Name is Jonas (by Weezer)
• Knights of Cydonia (by Muse)
• Rock And Roll All Nite (as made famous by Kiss)
• School’s Out (as made famous by Alice Cooper)
• Slow Ride (as made famous by Fog Hat)
• Cult of Personality (by Living Colour)
• Barracuda (as made famous by Heart)
For the first time ever, Guitar Hero fans will also be able to thrash and burn with new wireless guitar controllers available for each platform. The exclusive Gibson guitars will include innovative features such as removable faceplates that will allow fans to later personalize their guitars and make it their own, and a new button color design that will be integrated for an even greater authentic feel and rock experience. Gibson Guitar’s Les Paul model will be the battle axe of choice, and an industry standard for all rock gods on the Xbox 360™, PLAYSTATION®3 system, and Wii™. After much anticipation, PlayStation®2 system fans will also be receiving a new exclusive shape as well, the classic Kramer guitar, also a Gibson brand, popularized by hard rockers and known for its body design, pickups, electronics, and construction for furious finger fretting.
“The development team at Neversoft has been exceptional, and we’ve been able to incorporate a host of fresh new online and multi-player game play modes, along with exciting content into this version of Guitar Hero that our fans have been asking for. Also, many of the top bands and songs we’ve tried to get in the past are now on board, and we’ve definitely got some giant aces in the hole to say the least,” said Dusty Welch, head of publishing at RedOctane. “In addition, offering a new line of Gibson wireless guitars for each platform is going to truly add to the authentic rock star experience like no other.”
Street date confirmed for Dave Mirra BMX Challenge
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Wednesday, May 23 2007 @ 17:18 CET]
Oxygen Games is happy to verify that Dave Mirra BMX Challenge for PSP will be in the shops on June 15th 2007.
To whet appetites, Oxygen has issued a fact sheet:
Key features of the game:
• Dave Mirra BMX Challenge is a first to format release
• Intuitive control system, realistic responsiveness and pumping sound track
• Ad-hoc wireless play for up to 4 people
• Trick attack, training and race playability with exhibition, novice and pro modes
• Evolving track progression
• Flips, grinds and grabs have all been implemented into the game - performing them grants speed boosts
• Create your very own customizable riders with detailed create-a-character mode
• In depth career mode
• 17 levels, 9 environments and a selection of bikes to unlock and upgrade
• Earn better bikes, increase trick ability, complete gravity-defying moves!
• Perform over 100 tricks
• Clothing collectables throughout the levels – gather these items to unlock extra clothing options
• Compete head-to-head with other opponents online in mini games such as Simple Race, Capture the Clown, Who’s the Leader, Biggest Trick Combo & Best Score.
PS3 Firmware Version 1.80 Announced
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Wednesday, May 23 2007 @ 17:17 CET]
Sony Computer Entertainment Europe (SCEE) announced today availability of the latest version of the PLAYSTATION®3 (PS3™) firmware.
Version 1.80 features upscaling of PlayStation® and PlayStation 2 games, and DVD movies up to full 1080p HD resolution when viewed on a compatible HD TV set.
The capability to upscale DVDs to HD quality is a feature normally only associated with top range DVD players, and its inclusion in the latest firmware upgrade now allows PS3 owners with an existing DVD collection to dramatically enhance the viewing pleasure of their DVD collection when viewed through a compatible HD TV set1. Not only can DVD movies be enhanced to full 1080p HD quality but so too will PlayStation 2 and PlayStation games be upscaled to provide much improved gaming pleasure.
In a comprehensive update to PS3’s already impressive capabilities, Version 1.80 also allows users to enjoy Remote Play on their PSP across the internet, allowing them to access their PS3 anywhere in the world where a broadband internet connection is available2.
Version 1.80 also allows users on a home network to seamlessly view and play rich media content such as images, music and video on their PS3, that is stored on their DLNA3 enabled devices such as PCs and laptops elsewhere in the house, reinforcing PS3’s credentials as a home entertainment hub that truly deserves pride of place in the Living Room.
A host of other enhancements include the ability to print photo images stored on PS3’s hard disk or inserted storage media to a selection of Epson printers.
PS3 owners will be able to upgrade their PS3 with the latest Version 1.80 firmware from 24th May 2007.
- ends -
Notes
1. DVD-ROM (including DVD Video content) can only be upscaled with HDMI compatible TV sets.
2. Use of Remote Play requires a powered up PS3 with Version 1.80 as well as PSP firmware version 3.50 which will be available at the end of May.
3. DLNA – Digital Living Network Alliance. For more info on DLNA, please see http://www.dlna.org/en/consumer/home
Penumbra Overture: Episode 1 Review ONLINE
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It has been some time but we're happy to announce that a brand new review has been put online today.
We are taking a closer look on a weird new PC game, titled "Penumbra Overture: Episode 1".
Penumbra Overture is an episodic content game and it's focused on different genres such as FPS, Puzzles and Adventure.
Besides the episodic content, the game also involves physics in some way. You need to click on doors to grab them, then physically open them using the mouse. Weird? Yes. Innovative? Absolutely. However, the rest of the game still needs to be decent enough, especially gameplay. Nice ideas don't always make good games.
So, if this is your cup of tea, then our review of "Penumbra Overture: Episode 1" might be something for you.
New Riddick game in development from Sierra
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Sierra Entertainment, a division of Vivendi Games, announced today that The Chronicles of Riddick will blast onto Microsoft’s Xbox 360, and debut on the PLAYSTATION 3 system, for the first time.
Taking advantage of new hardware technologies, the game will present a reinvention of Escape from Butcher Bay, delivering 2004’s award winning experience in high definition with stunning enhancements. Also included is the Dark Athena chapter, an expansion of the original game with an exciting new story and new gameplay features. Scheduled to ship later in 2007, it is being produced under license from Universal Pictures Digital Platforms Group, in association with Vin Diesel’s Tigon Studios, and is being developed by Starbreeze Studios, acclaimed developer of the original edition.
With The Chronicles of Riddick: Assault on Dark Athena, players will not only be challenged to survive Butcher Bay, but will also engage in a new single-player experience and, for the first time in the Riddick universe, take action in intense multi-player combat. The game introduces the ominous Merc-ship Dark Athena, which sits silent like a marauding spider, awaiting helpless prey in the dark reaches of the galaxy. Players must face a large, bloodthirsty operation led by the dreaded Captain Revas and her slaves-turned-controllable combat drones, storm though death-defying events and fight fierce enemies in a battle of malice and gore.
“The Chronicles of Riddick is a genre defining game that helped shape the modern first-person shooter,” said Al Simone, senior vice president, global marketing for Sierra Entertainment. “We are proud to not only take this ‘Best in Class’ title to the next level for both the Xbox 360 and PLAYSTATION 3, but to create a new single-player experience and multi-player campaigns for a truly robust product offering.”
"When the original The Chronicles of Riddick game exploded on the scene, gamers were taken with its fantastic graphics and hard-hitting gameplay," said Bill Kispert, Vice President and General Manager, Interactive, Universal Pictures. "We are excited to now introduce new players to this character and world, while thrilling existing fans with the surprises and additional features this edition will offer."
"The Riddick universe is incredibly rich source material for creating on-going stories and games," said Cos Lazouras, Head of Production, Tigon Studios. "This next chronicle will take us to new, dark corners of that universe, which when combined with Starbreeze's fantastic next-gen techonology, will deliver the compelling player experience gamers have come to expect of Riddick."
"We’re very happy to be working in the Riddick universe again." said Ian Stevens, Lead Game Designer, Starbreeze Studios. "Assault on Dark Athena gives us an opportunity to revisit the original game and share it with a new audience, as well as offer a continuation of the Butcher Bay gameplay and storyline. We’re also thrilled to be bringing Multiplayer to the game."
Moving and attacking in darkness is particularly effective for Riddick as his haunting ‘eye shine’ gives him the ability to see without ambient light. However, stealth won't serve every situation and players will be able to take the action up close and personal. As Riddick, players will be able to sneak up behind enemies and snap necks or fight face to face using fists, elbows and grapples. Additionally, players will be able to capture weapons such as shanks, shotguns, or assault rifles and use these to cut a swath of destruction through anyone who gets in their way.
New Pokémon adventure for your Euro DS !
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With over 100 new Pokémon to discover in this epic new adventure, players across Europe can now take on the challenge and search for the new and mighty Legends to save the world!
With 3D graphics and making full use of the DS capabilities, including the touch screen, microphone and the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection, Pokémon Diamond and Pokémon Pearl for the Nintendo DS promise to be the most involving, exciting and deep Pokémon adventures to date.
Pokémon Diamond and Pokémon Pearl are already being enjoyed by millions of people.
Set in the beautiful region of Sinnoh - a land of myths and stories about the legendary Pokémon - players begin by assuming the role of a ‘Pokémon Trainer’ who sets off from the town of Twinleaf. Players will meet the Pokémon-mad Professor Rowan, who asks them to join him in his mission to document all the species of Pokémon that exist using a special tool – the Pokédex. Players must leave Twinleaf and travel all around Sinnoh to complete this mission, whilst trying to reach their ultimate goal of becoming the Pokémon League champion. This can only be achieved when eight Pokémon Gym Leaders have been defeated. But players need to keep their wits about them, as on their journey they will encounter the shady Pokémon thieves, Team Galactic, and become embroiled in their wrong doings!
True to tradition, collecting and battling Pokémon play a key role in these games and by making full use of the touch screen, the battling system is even easier and quicker to use. What’s more Pokémon Diamond and Pokémon Pearl can now be connected to the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection allowing you to battle, trade, and voice chat with friends from anywhere in the world!
The immense depth of Pokémon Diamond and Pokémon Pearl is revealed in several new features including the Pokémon Super Contest and the Underground World. The Super Contests take place in the Pokémon Contest Hall, where trainers can enter their Pokémon in to a competition consisting of three trials: Visual (dressing up), Dance (a rhythm game) and Acting (Pokémon perform battle moves to the judges). Trainers can also enter the Pokémon Super Contest with up to three other players using the DS’s unique wireless functionality. Players can also explore underground tunnels beneath Sinnoh with up to seven other friends, digging up Pokémon fossils, spheres, and other vital items.
Your Pokémon from the GBA adventure series need not miss out on your adventures in Sinnoh! By using the Double Slot feature of the Nintendo DS, you will be able to transfer Pokémon from Ruby, Sapphire, FireRed, LeafGreen and Emerald version games over to Pokémon Diamond or Pokémon Pearl, once certain conditions have been met. Also players who have completed the Manaphy Egg mission, in Pokémon Ranger, will be able to transfer the Manaphy Egg to Pokémon Diamond or Pokémon Pearl where it will hatch. To discover more about this mysterious and exciting new Pokémon see www.manaphy.eu ; for details.
A special stylus is available for those who pre-order (a Dialga stylus when ordering Pokémon Diamond and a Palkia stylus when ordering Pokémon Pearl ) through any GAME store in the UK. Pokémon Diamond and Pokémon Pearl launches across Europe on 27th July 2007 for an estimated retail price of around £29.
More info on GTA IV : Special Edition !
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Rockstar Games is proud to announce that Grand Theft Auto IV will be available as a special edition on October 16 in North America and October 19 in Europe, the same day as the regular edition of Grand Theft Auto IV.
The Grand Theft Auto IV Special Edition will be presented in a customized Grand Theft Auto metal safety deposit box. The box will contain:
-Grand Theft Auto IV on the Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system or the PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system, both with special packaging
-The Grand Theft Auto IV Art Book, featuring never-before-seen production artwork from Grand Theft Auto IV
-Selected soundtrack CD from Grand Theft Auto IV, featuring new material from top artists, only available on this release
-An exclusive Rockstar keychain for the safety deposit box keys
-Completing the collection is a limited edition Rockstar duffel bag
All of the items have been created with the utmost attention to detail to create a unique Grand Theft Auto IV experience for any fan of the series. The Grand Theft Auto IV Special Edition is available for pre-orders today and will retail for $89.99 in North America.
StarCraft II Unveiled !!
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Blizzard Entertainment today unveiled StarCraft II, the sequel to its award-winning real-time strategy game StarCraft, at the 2007 Blizzard Worldwide Invitational event in Seoul, South Korea.
The announcement took place inside the Olympic Gymnastics Arena, in front of thousands of attendees, who received a presentation that included a StarCraft II cinematic trailer and a gameplay demonstration by the development team.
Designed to be the ultimate competitive real-time strategy game, StarCraft II will feature the return of the Protoss, Terran, and Zerg races, overhauled and re-imagined with Blizzard’s signature approach to game balance. Each race will be further distinguished from the others, with several new units and new gameplay mechanics, as well as new abilities for some of the classic StarCraft units that will be making a reappearance in the game. StarCraft II will also feature a custom 3D-graphics engine with realistic physics and the ability to render several large, highly detailed units and massive armies on-screen simultaneously.
“With StarCraft II, we’ll be able to do everything we wanted to do with the original StarCraft and more,” stated Mike Morhaime, president and cofounder of Blizzard Entertainment. “We recognize that expectations are high following the long-running popularity of the original game, but we plan to meet those expectations and deliver an engaging, action-packed, competitive experience that StarCraft players and strategy gamers worldwide will enjoy.”
StarCraft II will include a unique single-player campaign, as well as fast-paced online play through an upgraded version of Blizzard’s renowned online gaming service, Battle.net®. In addition, the game will come with a powerful, full-featured map editor that will put the same tools used by Blizzard’s designers into the hands of players.
Blizzard is developing StarCraft II for simultaneous release on the Windows® and Macintosh® PC platforms. Further information about the game, including details on the single-player, multiplayer, and map-editor features, as well as system requirements, pricing, and availability, will be announced in the months ahead.
New US Virtual Console Wii titles
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The three new classic games go live at 9 a.m. Pacific time. Nintendo adds new games to the channel every Monday. Wii owners with a high-speed Internet connection can redeem Wii Points™ to download the games. Wii Points can be purchased in the Wii Shop Channel or at retail outlets. This week's new games are:
Donkey Kong Country 2™: Diddy's Kong Quest™ (SNES®, 1-2 players, 800 Wii Points): In the sequel to the immensely popular Donkey Kong Country™, Diddy Kong® gets the spotlight, along with his girlfriend, Dixie Kong™ - a great little monkey with a dangerous ponytail. The action starts on the wreck of King K. Rool's Gangplank Galleon that has apparently broken up on a reef offshore from the Kremlings' Island. Diddy and his friends will have to work together to rescue Donkey Kong®, exploring all the hidden areas of the Kremlings' island: a spooky haunted forest, treacherous swamps, a giant beehive oozing with sticky honey and lava-filled caves, just to name a few.
Streets of Rage™ 2 (Sega Genesis, 1-2 players, 800 Wii Points): To celebrate their defeat of the Syndicate exactly one year before, Blaze, Adam and Axel met for drinks. The next morning, Axel received a frantic phone call from Eddie "Skate" Hunter, Adam's younger brother, whom he was living with on the edge of the city. Blaze and Axel found Adam and Skate's house wrecked, and a picture showing Adam chained up at the feet of Mr. X. The city then once again returned to its nightmarish state as criminals ran rampant. Unable to contact their old friend in artillery, Axel and Blaze team up with Skate and Max Thunder to free the city and rescue Adam from the Syndicate. It is up to you to take down Mr. X once and for all.
Blazing Lazers (TurboGrafx16, 1 player, 600 Wii Points): Blazing Lazers is a vertical-scrolling shooter that was praised for surpassing the limitations of the hardware of its time. Players control the extraordinary firepower of their Gunhed Star Fighter to take on the Dark Squadron that has begun its invasion of Earth. Collect power-ups to increase your ship's battle strength so it can cut through enemies and defeat the bosses in all nine areas. Of course, as part of the "Soldier" series, the game contains a good combination of fast-paced speed with catchy, drum-propelled background music, coupled with the Field Thunder that can be used to destroy enemies in one fell swoop for the ultimate sense of satisfaction. With its fine-tuned difficulty levels, Blazing Lazers is a shooting game that anyone can enjoy.
Atari Announces DBZ: Budokai Tenkaichi 3 for Wii
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Atari today announced that Dragon Ball Z®: Budokai Tenkaichi 3 is in development for Wii.
Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 3 combines the lightning fast fighting and action that have made Budokai Tenkaichi 1 and Budokai Tenkaichi 2 the #1 fighting games of 2005 and 2006. Developed by NAMCO BANDAI Games Inc. / Spike, Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 3 is slated to release during the 2007 holiday season.
Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 3 delivers an extreme 3D fighting experience, improving upon last year's game with over 150 playable characters, enhanced fighting techniques, beautifully refined effects and shading techniques, making each character's effects more realistic, and over 20 battle stages. In addition, an improved control system for the Wii will allow players to easily mimic signature moves and execute devastating energy attacks as they are performed in the Dragon Ball Z animated series.
"Atari is incredibly excited to offer the ultimate chapter in the Budokai Tenkaichi series with over 20 new characters that have never been seen in any other DBZ video games such as Nail, King Cold and King Vegeta and battle stages that fans will love," said Emily Anadu, Senior Product Manager, Atari, Inc. "Each year, the developers refine the game to bring fans closer to feeling like they are actually playing the show."
In addition to the unprecedented number of characters and improved Wii control system, the environments have also been enhanced to feature day and night stages. The power of the moon in the night stages gives players additional ways to transform their characters and lets fans recreate some of their favorite memories from the show.
The immensely popular Dragon Ball Z® series is the gold standard of anime-based video games, with more than 25 different games and over 10 million units sold since May 2002.
Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 3 is set for release this holiday season.
New European Virtual Console Wii games
[Category :
Stake your claim as king of the jungle this week as Nintendo’s world famous ape family swing their way onto Virtual Console.
Released for the Super Nintendo in 1995, Donkey Kong Country 2™: Diddy’s Kong Quest™ sees our hero Donkey Kong take a step aside to allow his family members to take centre stage. When the big ape himself is kidnapped, it is up to the young Diddy and Dixie Kong to fight their way through eight worlds of comical action to save their superstar relative. Donkey Kong Country 2™: Diddy’s Kong Quest™ is available now for 800 Wii Points.
Joining this retro classic is another all-time great from Nintendo’s archives. Originally making its debut in 1992 on the NES, Mario & Yoshi™ is a fast-paced puzzle game starring everybody’s favourite plumber and his faithful dinosaur side-kick, Yoshi. In this game, players must catch falling enemies from the Mario series in-between egg shells, to free Yoshi trapped inside. With increasingly difficult stages to master and a frantic split-screen multiplayer mode to enjoy with a friend, this is the ideal title for puzzle fans! Mario & Yoshi is now available to download for 500 Wii Points.
These great games will join the list of 87 classic titles already available for the Virtual Console in Europe.
TimeShift Suits Up On the PS3 !
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Sierra Entertainment, a division of Vivendi Games, announced today that TimeShift™ will be available on PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system this autumn having debuted at Sony’s Gamer’s Week event in San Diego, California yesterday.
TimeShift™ is a first-person shooter (FPS) video game that immerses the player in a deep storyline as the main character is equipped with a unique quantum suit that slows, stops and reverses the flow of time.
With a robust multiplayer experience, gamers can take the time control powers online with up to 16 players battling it out across seven game modes. In addition, gamers can customise their own game mode using over 60 options with a total of 14 multiplayer maps to choose from.
“Sierra Entertainment and Sabre Interactive are changing the way gamers play FPS games by giving them the ultimate weapon – Time,” said Al Simone, SVP of Global Marketing for Sierra Entertainment. “TimeShift™ will compete with the best shooter games of the year on any platform and will offer PLAYSTATION 3 gamers a visceral new experience unlike any they have ever seen or played before.”
Crash Bandicoot to return this Fall on Multiplatform
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Sierra Entertainment, a division of Vivendi Games, today announced the upcoming return of everyone’s favorite iconoclastic videogame hero, Crash Bandicoot, in Crash® of the Titans - the latest installment of the best-selling Crash Bandicoot® videogame franchise.
Crash of the Titans is scheduled for release this autumn on the Wii™ Console, Xbox 360™ videogame and entertainment system, PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, the Nintendo DS™ system, the PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system, Game Boy® Advance and on mobile phones.
In Crash of the Titans, players will fight a nefarious plot hatched by Crash’s arch nemeses Neo and Nina Cortex to mutate the local creatures into titanic abominations. Using Crash’s legendary mix of outrageous antics and daredevil bravado, players will ‘hijack’ enemies in order to take control of their actions and use their fearsome powers against all manner of enemies.
“Crash Bandicoot – one of the most popular videogame characters of all time – is back and his all-new adventure brings with it more irreverent humor, family-friendly action, a wild cast of characters and amazing new titanic enemies to discover,” said Cindy Cook, chief marketing and strategy officer for Vivendi Games. “Featuring advanced acrobatic combat and incredible co-op multiplayer, Crash of the Titans will be a fun and adventurous title for gamers of all ages.”
Ubisoft Announces Prince of Persia Classic For Xbox LA
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Today, Ubisoft announced it will be releasing Prince of Persia® Classic on Xbox LIVE® Arcade early summer.
Xbox LIVE Arcade on the Xbox 360™ is the premier destination for digitally distributed, high definition original and classic games. A remake of the 1989 Prince of Persia game that was lauded as THE game that started the platforming genre features the same intricate level design, exciting swordplay, puzzle solving, and storyline from the original. Developed by Gameloft, Prince of Persia Classic has received a brand-new coat of paint with character designs, animations, visuals and lighting effects giving the game a close to 3D look. To freshen the gameplay experience, new traps, puzzles and enemies have also been added.
About Prince of Persia Classic
While the Sultan of Persia is away for a war, the evil Vizier seizes the throne for himself. He has also imprisoned the beautiful Princess and has given her an hour to decide her fate – marry him or die. As the courageous Prince, you have 60 minutes to complete the mission of saving the Princess from her deadly fate.
Halo 3 ... September 26 in Europe !
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“Halo® 3,” the final chapter in the groundbreaking “Halo” trilogy, is set to shatter day-one entertainment sales records when it is released in Europe on Wednesday, September 26.
Created by legendary developer Bungie Studios and exclusive to the Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system, “Halo 3” will set a new standard for interactive storytelling and social gaming by engaging consumers worldwide in Master Chief’s epic battle to save humankind.
“‘Halo 3’ is much more than a video game release; it’s the biggest entertainment event of the year,” said Peter Moore, corporate vice president of Microsoft’s Interactive Entertainment Business. “At launch we intend to deliver a finale that will go down in entertainment history and leave people around the world with an experience that will be shared and enjoyed for years to come.”
Fueling the early buzz around “Halo 3”, Microsoft Game Studios will kick off the “Halo 3” multiplayer beta from today, which provides audiences worldwide with an exclusive, early look at some of the multiplayer elements of “Halo 3” on Xbox LIVE®.
The unveiling of the “Halo 3” launch date comes hours before the release of the “Halo 3” multiplayer beta, which will debut to audiences worldwide via Xbox LIVE TODAY at 13:00 UK / 14:00 EUROPEAN and run through June 7 at 07:59 UK / 08:59 EUROPEAN.* The “Halo 3” multiplayer beta will provide audiences worldwide with an exclusive early look at some of the multiplayer elements of “Halo 3” on Xbox LIVE. Gamers who are interested in experiencing the multiplayer beta of “Halo 3” can still participate through the purchase of the critically acclaimed, Xbox 360-exclusive title “Crackdown™,” which was launched in February. Starting today, the specially marked copies of “Crackdown” will act as a key for gamers to participate in the “Halo 3” multiplayer beta. In addition to giving gamers their first opportunity to get their hands on the new levels, weapons, vehicles and game types, the multiplayer beta will also provide valuable data that Bungie will use in continued development.
More on Two Worlds Multiplayer
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SouthPeak Games has announced multiplayer details for Two Worlds, its upcoming free-roaming RPG epic for the Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system from Microsoft® and PC.
Two Worlds' multiplayer mode is completely separate from the game's epic solo adventure, with players able to create custom characters around traditional multiplayer RPG classes. A hub-like lobby area will allow participants to form small teams of up to 8 players in order to tackle a wide variety of team matches, as well as engage in familiar online activities such as chatting and trading.
With new team matches, equipment and other off-the-wall activities such as horse racing and monster hunting in the pipeline, Two Worlds is set to become one of the most comprehensive single and multiplayer RPGs available on any system.
Melanie Mroz, Executive Vice President, SouthPeak Games says: “We're thrilled with the progress that Two Worlds' multiplayer content is making, although the extensive play-balancing and testing that content requires has necessitated a shift of the release date to late July. We want Two Worlds to truly live up to its potential and gamers can rest assured that it will be well worth the wait.”
Two Worlds will be in stores for Xbox 360 and PC in July 2007.
More Brain Training for your DS ... and brain
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More Brain Training from Dr Kawashima: How Old Is Your Brain? Featuring all new exercises and DS Brain Age Checks, this is set to challenge even the most trained brains as it launches across Europe on 29th June 2007.
Dr Kawashima’s Brain Training: How Old Is Your Brain? has been enjoyed by people of all ages, including those who would not normally be associated with video games. Inspired by the research of renowned Japanese neuroscientist Dr Kawashima, this original title and the soon to launch More Brain Training are designed to help stimulate your brain and challenge memory, math and perception skills. Users can train their brain by exercising for just a few minutes each day, whether on the go or when relaxing.
More Brain Training from Dr Kawashima: How Old Is Your Brain? uses the same format as its predecessor. Held like a book, you are invited to use the unique and intuitive touch screen and microphone features of the Nintendo DS as you take 5 - 10 minutes a day to help your brain stay active with challenging new exercises. All exercises contained in the software are based on easy to execute mathematical, cognitive and language-based tasks. The DS Brain Age Check measures the speed and accuracy with which you perform simple tasks to establish your DS Brain Age. Once this is established you will be set a regime to help stimulate your brain. The DS Brain Age Check allows you to see your progress on the inbuilt calendar.
The DS Brain Age Checks take on a new form in this title as you’re tested on three randomly selected exercises including old school classic Rock, Paper, Scissors which asks you to name the position to either win or lose against the object shown, Memorising 5x5 which sees you remembering the position of numbers on screen and Speedy Symbols which challenges your memory of symbols associated with specific numbers.
More Brain Training from Dr Kawashima: How Old Is Your Brain? features fun new training exercises including Correct Change which challenges you on an everyday day task - to work out the right amount of money to hand back after a transaction as quickly as possible, Missing Symbols, a twist on the classic ‘20 calculations’ test, and Masterpiece Recital which invites you to follow a music sheet shown on one screen and touch the corresponding piano keys on the touch screen. As your daily training continues, additional new exercises are unlocked, opening up a variety of new activities with varying levels of difficulty.
More Brain Training from Dr Kawashima: How Old Is Your Brain? launches across Europe on 29th June 2007 at the estimated retail price of around €30 (£19.99 in the UK).
Rockstar announces Midnight Club: LA for PS3/Xbox360
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Rockstar Games is proud to announce the fourth installment of its critically-acclaimed and genre-defining Midnight Club franchise, Midnight Club: Los Angeles. Developed by series creator Rockstar San Diego, Midnight Club: Los Angeles will be available for the Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and the PLAYSTATION 3 system in early 2008.
"Midnight Club's addictive blend of freedom, style and sheer sense of speed sets it apart from its competition," said Sam Houser, Founder and Executive Producer of Rockstar Games. "With Midnight Club: Los Angeles, Rockstar San Diego looks to once again push the boundaries and expectations of what a racing game can be. Rockstar San Diego has always been the technology leader in delivering the ultimate racing experience, and with this game, they are looking to re-define the idea of a completely immersive racing game experience, both offline and online."
"On prior consoles, the Midnight Club franchise continually raised the bar for racing games, evolving from being the first ever street racing game to setting the defining standard for credibly integrating street racing culture with an intense racing experience," said Jay Panek, Producer of the Midnight Club series. "With Midnight Club: Los Angeles, our goal is to evolve on all possible levels and stay true to the hardcore gaming experience the series is known for, while making it accessible to casual gamers and car enthusiasts."
Consistently the most innovative, highest-rated street racing franchise, Midnight Club set the standard of what an open-world racing game can be. Midnight Club: Los Angeles will deliver a truly immersive next-generation racing experience that is second to none.
Majesco Announces Operation: Vietnam For DS
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Majesco Entertainment Company today announced the latest addition to its popular line of Nintendo DS™ games, Operation: Vietnam. Developed by Coyote Console and scheduled for worldwide release this autumn, Operation: Vietnam drops players into the war-torn jungles of Vietnam as they try to escape enemy territory.
“Operation: Vietnam packs the run-and-gun action found in popular arcade games into the Nintendo DS™,” said John Merchant, Marketing Manager, Majesco Europe. “The squad-based gameplay and variety of missions create a fast-paced, exciting experience for gamers on the go.”
In Operation: Vietnam, a chopper flight over the thick jungles of worn-torn Vietnam goes horribly wrong as the transport is shot down deep inside Viet Cong territory. Surrounded by the enemy, players must rally their squad and lead them back to safety. Along the way, players must fend off repeated assaults while liberating oppressed villagers.
Exciting features of Operation: Vietnam include:
- Use the Touch Screen to issue commands, access inventory, view maps and select which squad member to control;
- Utilize your squad to combat multiple enemy types including: soldiers, tanks, turrets, enemy barracks, etc.;
- Take advantage of different specialties and weapons per soldier: long range rifle, grenade launcher, automatic weapons, and more;
- Flush out enemies with smoke grenades or take them out with fragmentation grenades.
Bomberman Explodes Onto Xbox Live Arcade
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Hudson Entertainment, the North American publishing arm for Hudson Soft, today announced that they are releasing the all-new Bomberman Live for Xbox LIVE® Arcade, the premier destination for digitally distributed, high-definition original and classic games.
Retaining classic gameplay elements while adding 8-person online multiplayer, full character customization, and gorgeous high-definition graphics, the game is expected to launch worldwide in Summer 2007.
Fans can now compete with the best Bomberman players worldwide, as Bomberman Live delivers frantic 8-player online. Fans can also play with their friends in 4-player local action on one system. In addition, Bomberman Live features new character customizations, which allow players to personalize their Bomberman from 10,000 possible combinations. Bomberman Live offers gamers the chance to finally prove that they're the best Bomberman player in the world.
"This has been one of our most requested games, our fans have been clamoring for it, and we are thrilled to finally be able to deliver the game they want," said John Greiner, President of Hudson Entertainment. "As our flagship series, Bomberman has been hailed as the best multiplayer game ever created. Now that Xbox LIVE® Arcade delivers a truly worldwide multiplayer gaming platform, we can at last bring to market a Bomberman game that represents our long-term vision of the brand."
New Test Drive Unlimited Downloadable Content
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Atari today announced that the Test Drive Collection Volume 4 downloadable car pack is available now on Xbox Live® Marketplace for Test Drive Unlimited, the ultimate automotive and lifestyle gaming experience for Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system from Microsoft.
Available for download on Xbox Live Marketplace for 350 points, the Test Drive Collection Volume 4 features six highly desirable cars, the Dino 246 GT, Ferrari Challenge Stradale, Cadillac® Cien™, RUF RK Spyder, Lamborghini Murciélago Roadster, and the TVR T440R. In addition, players can download the Saturn™ Curve™ completely free. Once downloaded from Xbox Live Marketplace, players will be able to buy each of the cars as normal from the relevant in-game dealerships.
“At Eden we’ve worked hard to keep the new cars coming for Test Drive Unlimited, with all the dedicated design and rendering time that doing so involves,” said David Nadal, Studio Head, Eden Games. “With this latest pack and recent Lexus pack, there are now more than 30 brand new, meticulously modelled cars that we’ve made available on Marketplace since launch, plenty for the thousands of committed Test Drive petrol-heads to get their teeth into.”
Three New Classic Games For Wii
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The three new classic games go live at 9 a.m. Pacific time. Nintendo adds new games to the channel every Monday. Wii owners with a high-speed Internet connection can redeem Wii Points™ to download the games. Wii Points can be purchased in the Wii Shop Channel or at retail outlets. This week's new games are:
Pac-Man® (NES®, 1-2 players, 500 Wii Points): Move Pac-Man through the maze, avoiding ghosts and eating all the Pac-Dots. Beware, each of the ghosts behave differently. When Pac-Man chomps a Power Pellet, he becomes invincible and is able to eat the blue ghosts. The more ghosts Pac-Man eats in a row, the higher the score. Don't forget to eat the bonus fruit too. Released in 1980, Pac-Man is the most well-known video game on Earth and is also commonly acknowledged as one of the most successful coin-operated games in history. Enjoy this masterpiece of gaming history today.
Ninja Gaiden™ (NES®, 1 player, 500 Wii Points): Players take on the role of Ryu Hayabusa, a rising warrior in his family's clan whose main role in the world is to protect the Dark Dragon Blade from falling into the hands of evil. Ryu travels to America to seek vengeance for his father's death. Players fight their way through 14 challenging side-scrolling levels while defeating gangs of street thugs, battling evil ninjas and fighting barbarian bosses by using the deadly Dragon Sword, ninja skills and Ninpo (ninja magic). Players can run, crouch, jump and climb as they make their way through each stage and collect items to gain points, strength and weapons.
Ninja Spirit (TurboGrafx16, 1-2 players, 600 Wii Points): Ninja Spirit is a side-scrolling action game that amazed the gaming world with its precision graphics and quality game play. Play as the ninja Moonlight and engage in a fierce battle to avenge his father's death and unlock the secrets of his birth. Select between the original ARCADE MODE and PC-ENGINE MODE, which includes a life gauge. Use four types of weapons: katana, shuriken, bombs and chain and sickles to battle your way through the enemies. Pick up power-up items and switch between weapons to give you the advantage. You'll need to consider the enemy attacks and your weapon's abilities in order to deftly make it through all seven stages. Use your skills and attacks to get through the game's boundless enemies and traps. That's what ninja action is all about.
Duck Hunting for Wii ?
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The ducks are on the pond (and in the air) as Detn8 Games Ltd., a new player in the video game market, announces its first title – Ultimate Duck Hunting™ for the Wii™ home video game system.
Set for release in July 2007, Ultimate Duck Hunting is a realistic hunting simulation that features both shooting and retrieving. Choose your dog (yellow, chocolate, or black Labrador retriever) and train him to respond to your commands, all controlled by player motions using the Wii Remote™. Gear up with name-brand guns, camouflage, and decoys – then it’s off into the wilderness to set up decoys, use duck calls, and ultimately become a crack shot using the Wii Remote to aim and fire at tough-to-down mallard, hen, black, and teal ducks.
“The Wii Remote plays a major role in Ultimate Duck Hunting,” says Jeff Hill, VP at Detn8 Games. “Obviously, it’s the perfect device for aim-and-shoot – and commanding your dog with Wii Remote motion adds to the immersion in the simulation.”
Ultimate Duck Hunting features four modes of play: Single Hunt where you score points by shooting a required number of ducks, Career Mode in which you hunt over several seasons, create your own hunter and dog, and improve your dog by earning points, Multi-player Mode where two players compete head-to-head on a split screen, and Training Mode, a mini-game for training your dog.
Players hunt and retrieve ducks in six environments, including Stuttgart (Arkansas), Oacoma (South Dakota), Oak Island (Minnesota), Old Harbor (Alaska), Coldwater (Mississippi), and Halifax (Virginia).
Lara Croft set to make her Wii debut
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Eidos Interactive Ltd., one of the world’s leading publishers and developers of entertainment software, can confirm that a Nintendo Wii version of Lara Croft Tomb Raider: Anniversary is already well into development.
“The Nintendo Wii is a hugely innovative games console and we wanted to make a special version of Anniversary to appeal to Wii owners,” said Kathryn Clements, Senior Brand Manager, Tomb Raider. ““The Wiimote & Nunchuck controller allows Wii gamers to control Lara in brand new, unique ways, and there are plenty of new features, to be revealed soon, which will ensure Anniversary really hits the spot - literally.”
Lara Croft Tomb Raider: Anniversary will be released on PlayStation 2 and PC Games For Windows on June 1st with a PSP version shortly after. An announcement on the release date for Tomb Raider: Anniversary on the Nintendo Wii to follow.
New Tony Hawk game in development
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This fall gamers will be able to command their skating destiny in Tony Hawk’s Proving Ground from Activision.
For the first time, players will have the freedom to define their character, story and style based on the choices they make, the paths they choose and the style of skating they use on the proving grounds from Philadelphia and Baltimore to Washington, D.C.
Tony Hawk’s Proving Ground features deeper customization than ever before, including a Video Editor with full-featured editing tools and visual effects for creating “epic skate videos,” and a fully customizable online Skate Lounge where players can skate with friends in the ultimate pad. In addition, players will have the freedom to skate from single player to online seamlessly, as well as utilize new gameplay mechanics such as skateable terrain altering and building, and Bowl Carving, delivering the most empowered skating experience ever. Tony Hawk’s Proving Ground also features even more Nail the Trick™ moves such as Nail the Grab and Nail the Manual intensifying the thrill of pulling off big tricks.
“Tony Hawk’s Proving Ground drops players into the skateboarding world like never before,” said Joel Jewett, president of Neversoft. “This is the largest, deepest and most compelling Tony Hawk game ever. You can skate the best lines, define your own style and produce your own videos. You can even take it further by tricking out your own Skate Lounge, where you can hang out and skate with others online. Proving Ground will throw you so deep into the lifestyle of skateboarding that you won’t be able to get out. Hands down, it’s the most exciting Tony Hawk title yet.”
Tony Hawk’s Proving Ground is in development by Neversoft for the Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system, Wii™ home video game system, PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, and Nintendo DS™. The game is not yet rated by the ESRB and is scheduled for release later this year.
Lost Planet PC demo with DX10
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Lost Planet: Extreme Condition is the first game demo that takes advantage of NVIDIA GeForce 8 Series DirectX 10-compatible graphics processors.
· NVIDIA has worked closely with Capcom to bring the hit Xbox 360 action shooter to the PC, providing technical expertise and GeForce® 8 Series graphics processing units (GPUs) for development and testing. Lost Planet is a part of NVIDIA’s The Way Its Meant To Be Played® program.
· Lost Planet will feature Extreme High Definition (XHD) support with up to 2560x1600 resolution, higher resolution special effects, and improved lighting and shadows.
· NVIDIA and Capcom are conducting extensive testing to ensure maximum compatibility and stability when gamers play Lost Planet on NVIDIA GeForce GPUs.
· The demo is available at http://www.nzone.com/object/nzone_lostplanet_downloads.html.
The final version of the game is scheduled for release on June 26th, 2007.
· Microsoft DirectX 10 is included with Microsoft Windows Vista and delivers unparalleled levels of graphics realism and film-quality effects for games. DirectX 10 games running on GeForce 8-series GPUs will deliver rich, realistic scenes, increased character detail and shadow effects, and more lifelike animations.
Quote by Jun Takeuchi, producer of Lost Planet:
“NVIDIA technical expertise was critical in making our game look even better on the PC. The incredible rendering power of NVIDIA GeForce graphics processors allows gamers to experience every amazing detail that Lost Planet has to offer.”
EA anounces The Simpsons Game
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Electronic Arts today announced the upcoming release of THE SIMPSONS GAME (working title).
Created in partnership with Gracie Films and Twentieth Century Fox Television and Twentieth Century Fox Licensing and Merchandising, THE SIMPSONS GAME features a hilarious, sprawling, and mind-busting storyline crafted by the TV show’s Emmy Award-winning writers. The action-comedy will also feature the full cast of voice actors from the TV show who will reprise their roles for the game.
In THE SIMPSONS GAME, Homer, Marge, Bart, and Lisa use exciting, all-new powers to save the world from rising chaos. To help the Simpsons, gamers at home must journey through all of Springfield (as well as vast worlds beyond!), vanquish an amazing array of villains, and fight their way through parodies of multiple popular games.
“Our goal in developing THE SIMPSONS GAME is to create the most original game ever, which is a lofty goal and only possible given the close collaboration with
‘The Simpsons’ creative team,” said Scot Amos, Executive Producer of the project. “We’re also especially proud of the game’s warm visual feel, which captures – for the first time ever in a game – the look of the TV show.” Added Amos, “As Comic Book Guy says, ‘Best. Simpsons Game. Ever!’”
“The EA group was so enormously talented and beyond belief energetic that I am thinking of suing for second hand exhaustion,” said James L. Brooks,
Executive Producer of “The Simpsons.”
Under development by EA’s Redwood Shores Studio, THE SIMPSONS GAME is scheduled for release in Fall 2007 for the PLAYSTATION3, PlayStation2, PSP (PlayStation Portable), Xbox 360, Nintendo Wii and Nintendo DS.
Tamagotchi Party On! .... on Nintendo's Wii !
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Atari today announced the forthcoming release of NAMCO BANDAI Games’ Tamagotchi Party On! for Wii, a charming and fun-packed 3D party game based on the hit Tamagotchi franchise in which players race to become the most popular Tamagotchi on the planet. Tamagotchi Party On! is scheduled for release across Europe in August 2007.
Bringing the Tamagotchi universe to life in full 3D for the very first time, Tamagotchi Party On! is fantastic pick-up-and-play multiplayer party fun. The unique Wii control system lets players swing, shake, point, turn and twist the Wii Remote to play their way through the quirky gameworld, which turns the whole Tamagotchi Planet into a giant 3D board game filled with unique towns and other fun locations to explore. Gameplay is instantly accessible and perfectly suited to Wii, with a host of exciting mini-games that will test the player’s skill either solo or against up to three friends to see who has what it takes to become Tamagotchi President.
Players can choose to play as their favorite Tamagotchi character and level them up through the game. With Gotchi earned along the way, players can customize and decorate their campaign headquarters however they like, allowing them in turn to give their characters a fresh new look and increase their chances in the Tamagotchi popularity stakes.
Tamagotchi Party On! is scheduled for European release in August 2007.
Dragon Ball Z: Goku Densetsu hits Europe on DS
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Atari today announced the forthcoming release of NAMCO BANDAI Games’ DBZ: Goku Densetsu for Nintendo DS.
Published by NAMCO BANDAI Games Europe SAS and distributed in Europe by Atari, DBZ: Goku Densetsu is scheduled for European release in August 2007.
DBZ: Goku Densetsu for the Nintendo DS is an all new DBZ experience unlike any other, combining strategic card-based gameplay and role playing elements to deliver a game that is easy to understand but hard to master. Players’ progression is determined through their use of the cards to evolve characters, strengthen moves and create new moves.
In the game, cards are marked with eight types of actions, eight power levels and eight guard levels for a total of 512 possible combinations that will determine progress. Players are dealt five randomly selected cards to play with each card denoting one of eight types of actions. The intensity of special attacks will increase as the game progresses and multiple cards can be played together to power up attacks and enhance guard levels for super combos. While the game will progress even if players do not choose the best cards, strategic players will be able to unlock more surprises and become true masters. DBZ: Goku Densetsu also supports wireless battle for up to 4 players and includes a game sharing mode.
Dragon Ball Z is the gold standard of anime-based video games, with more than 26 different games and over 10 million units sold since May 2002.
Namco Bandai announces Soulcalibur Legends for Wii !
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The legendary weapon-based fighting game franchise has been reinvented as NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc. today announced Soulcalibur Legends exclusively for the Nintendo Wii.
Developed specifically for the innovative console, Soulcalibur Legends fully immerses players in a third person action adventure and takes a unique approach to the series by truly utilizing the Wii Remote and Nunchuk. An unparalleled experience awaits gamers when Soulcalibur Legends is released this winter. To date the Soul series has sold more than 9 million units worldwide.
"Over the past ten years, since the release of the original Soulblade, the team behind the Soulcalibur series has pushed the envelope of technology and innovation with each iteration," said Makoto Iwai, Executive Vice President and COO, NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc. "With Soulcalibur Legends, they saw the opportunity to once again create an immersive experience that is unique to the franchise."
In Soulcalibur Legends, follow the 16th century exploits of Siegfried and Soulcalibur characters, new and old as they find themselves on a quest for ultimate power in order to save an empire from destruction. Using the Wii Remote and Nunchuk as their weapons of choice, players perform moves and combos using orchestrated slashes and movements. Sword fighting capabilities are pushed to the limit as gamers unleash special attacks to crush scores of enemies and large bosses. Earn honored titles such as Knight or Soldier as you master special attacks acquired throughout the adventure while battling through diverse stages and environments. With multiple modes of play and the help of familiar faces, the Soulcalibur universe will be viewed in an entirely new light.
Soltrio Solitaire soon on Xbox Live Arcade
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This Wednesday 16th May get ready for solitaire mania on Xbox LIVE® Arcade for Xbox 360™! “Soltrio Solitaire” from Silver Creek Entertainment offers players a chance to shuffle through a collection of 18 compelling solitaire games.
Additionally, a brand new Voyage Adventure mode provides a new twist on classic solitaire game play: in this mode, players travel around a map completing different solitaire games in order to unlock custom card designs. Co-op and competitive two-player game modes further enhance the “Soltrio Solitaire” experience.
Game Features
• Two-player multiplayer via system link or over Xbox LIVE
• In two-player mode, two games take place at the same time, and both players share the same foundation piles, prompting a fight over the piles in the race to win the game
• In co-op mode, players work together to attempt to finish the game with the best score possible, and players also have the ability to pass cards to each other
• Create new cards when you unlock card elements, show them off to your friends and customise your own decks!
• Earn up to 12 Achievements and 200 Gamerscore points
Where can I get “Soltrio Solitaire” from?
You can download “Soltrio Solitaire” beginning Wednesday 16th May from 09:00 GMT on Xbox Live Arcade.
“Soltrio Solitaire” will be available worldwide for 800 Microsoft® Points and is rated PEGI 3+
Mario Party 8 for Wii hits Europe in June !
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Mario Party is back! This classic party game series provides hours of fun for everyone regardless of age or gaming ability and Mario Party 8 is no exception. This fast paced and crazy game is the first Wii installment of the popular series and is the perfect game to play with family and friends. Join the party this summer with Mario Party 8 when it launches across Europe on 22nd June 2007.
All the old favourites including Mario, Luigi, Peach and Yoshi are back in this latest Mario Party installment, along with a couple of new faces, such as Blooper and Hammer Bro, who previously appeared for the first time in the original Super Mario Bros. on the Nintendo Entertainment System. Players must move around the board by throwing a dice and at the end of each turn they are faced with a humorous yet challenging mini-game. This really is the perfect game to play against friends and family thanks to the multiplayer mode which allows you and your friends to team up against each other in both two versus two and one against all challenges.
Combine this zany board game action with the Wii Remote and Mario Party 8 makes for a highly-charged, dynamic experience, with unique and exciting gameplay styles on offer for each mini-game. Such mini-games include a snowboard race, a race on a tight rope, a boat rowing race and even a cake decoration contest. The Wii Remote adds a new level of comfort and novelty to gameplay as some mini-games require holding the Wii Remote vertically, sideways and even like a TV remote pointing at the screen. It also enables the player to cruise seamlessly through the game’s numerous different modes. What’s more in certain modes, players can use their very own personalised Mii characters within specific mini-games.
The game’s main mode, Party Tent, challenges players to take on the computer or up to three friends in a turn-based battle. Each board features different challenges but as a general rule, players have a set number of turns to collect as many stars as they can. Mini-games played in party mode vary depending on the number of players.
If you just can’t get enough of the many mini-games, you can devote your time entirely to playing them in the Mini-Game Tent, moving from game to game and honing your skills. Elsewhere players can put their skills to the test in the Star Battle Arena where they must take on and defeat the computer. Other zones include the Extras Zone and the Fun Bazaar all of which add fun and diverse elements to the classic game.
In addition, aspiring Mario Party 8 masters can use the game’s multiplayer capabilities to play with up to three other people. Friends and family can battle it out in Party Tent mode, Mini-Game Tent and the Extras zone.
The newest installment in the Mario Party series sees the latest developments in technology combined with a classic gaming formula and is set to become the best in the series yet! Mario Party 8 parties its way into stores across Europe on 22nd June 2007 at an estimated price of around £40.
Driver '76 for PSP steers into retail stores
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Tomorrow Ubisoft, one of the world’s largest video game publishers, will ship Driver® ‘76 for the PSP® (PlayStationPortable) system to retail stores.
Driver ‘76 will feature all-new content with 27 new missions exclusively designed for gaming on the go. Driver ‘76 is the first all-new edition of the famed Driver series to be released since Ubisoft acquired the franchise in 2006. Developed by Sumo Digital Ltd. and Ubisoft’s Reflections studio, Driver ‘76 is rated 15+.
Faithful to the brand spirit, Driver ‘76 is an action driving game that features Hollywood-style car chases while also letting the player experience the open environment on foot. The game thrusts the player into the heart of the 1970s, through 27 missions divided into six main plots. Players can take side jobs, earning cash that can be used to modify their rides. Driver ‘76 also offers an extensive multiplayer mode and a host of mini-games ranging from street races to all out carnage in Destruction Derby mode.
Features Include:
• All-New Content Developed Exclusively for the PSP system – Twenty-seven all-new missions created for the PSP system.
• Prequel Storyline to Driver Parallel Lines – The year is 1976, two years before Driver® Parallel Lines.
• Multiplayer Games and Downloadable Content – Games include Street Racing, Destruction Derby, Pink Slip Racing and Swap Meet. Also download new paintjobs to use on your collected vehicles in the garage.
• Experience Open Environments in Authentic 1970’s New York – All the architecture, music, cars and clothes of the ’70s. Spans New York from Jersey to Coney Island.
• Vehicle Modification System – Collect your favorite vehicles and complete side job mi