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] [Posted by Bjorn on Sunday, June 25 2006 @ 22:05 CET]PlayDevil.com goes on HOLIDAY
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After some very busy months in the game industry we need to power up our batteries again for the rest of 2006.
As of tomorrow, we'll be off for about 2 weeks holiday.
Every crew member is taking off for some rest and will be back around July 8 to give you the latest news, gossip, demos, patches and of course reviews, previews, interviews, etc of the Game Industry and its games.
From tomorrow to Saturday July 8 the site won't be updated but everything stays online like it is. So you can still search the entire site, read every article or newsitem, check out the cheats & hints section, etc.
We wish you all a good holiday as well if you still need to power up those batteries (if you have already good for you!) and we'll be all back in full action in about 2 weeks!
Have a very nice holiday!
The PlayDevil.com Crew
Buena Vista Games Ships Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Sunday, June 25 2006 @ 11:47 CET]
Buena Vista Games today announced that handheld video games based on Walt Disney Pictures' feature film "Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest" have shipped to retail stores in North America. Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest video games for the PSP, Nintendo DS and Game Boy Advance will be on store shelves on Friday, 7th July, to coincide with the film's release on July 6th.
"Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest lets gamers embark on a high-seas adventure that parallels events from the upcoming summer blockbuster film release," said Graham Hopper, senior vice president and general manager, Buena Vista Games. "As one of the most successful handheld video game publishers, BVG looks forward to offering gamers the opportunity to take the action from the 'Pirates of the Caribbean' film franchise with them wherever they go."
Developed by Amaze Entertainment, Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest comprise three unique swashbuckling third-person action/adventure video games in which players engage in action that reflects the cunning world of the film franchise - with an abundance of disloyalty, humor and revenge.
The PSP system version, BVG's first game for the platform, offers gamers the opportunity to control Captain Jack Sparrow. Players can utilize strength and speed attacks to take down enemies as well as "dirty moves," typical of pirate fighting. The PSP system version also features multiplayer ship battles for up to four players via local wireless. Ship battle gameplay contains 10 maps and offers GameShare mode (only one game disc needed to play on multiple PSP systems).
In the Nintendo DS version, players embark on a daring adventure as each of the three main characters - Captain Jack Sparrow, Will Turner and Elizabeth Swann. Each character has his or her own signature fight move. The Nintendo DS version also includes three two-player mini-games that can be played via local wireless. The mini-games include Walk The Plank, Boom Barge and Shoot The Monkey.
The Game Boy Advance version lets players take the helm of the Black Pearl as Captain Jack Sparrow in three-dimensional seafaring action to battle other ships or sail to 15 islands. The title for the GBA includes 50 side-scrolling adventure maps.
Rune Trollebo announces My Worst Day WW2
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Sunday, June 25 2006 @ 11:46 CET]
Rune Trollebo is proud to unveil version 1.92 of the PC game My Worst Day WW2, a 3D action tactical First Person Shooter.
It is World War 2, and you are sent as a saboteur into winter Norway to destroy two big German canons. You are dropped from a plane into a large island in a fjord.
This game will introduce you to a new way of playing a 3D FPS game. You are not sent out on some 10 linear, scripted missions. No, it is more like a real military mission: You are sent into the enemy territory without knowing much about where the enemies are, and what they are up to. The intelligence is sparse, close to none. And you will see that you have to find out what is the biggest threat, and start your 'mission' from there. This is the thinking man's game. But still, you have to kill most of the enemies on the island to be sure of success, and be able to leave the island. It is much about sneaking around, sniping, but also fighting at short range. You have to fight on the beaches, in the forest and up in the mountains.
In My Worst Day WW2 you have to use all sorts of weapons, and fight against soldiers, tanks, aircrafts and even a battleship.
Since it is an un-scripted game, you can walk all over the place, wherever you want, whenever you want. This has lead to a great interest in this game among the players that are looking for realistic, real time 3D shooters where you have to sneak around in the terrain, where your tactical skills and patience, and wish to stay alive, is more important than to be able to kill 3 enemies pr second.
My Worst Day WW2 runs on Windows XP/Win2000, 1.6 GHz CPU, 512 MB RAM, modern 32 MB Video Card, 100 MB Free Hard Drive Space and DirectX 9.0c
It is priced at 20$ (USD). The demo version of the game, hosting all game functionality, but has some time limited use, can be securely downloaded at http://www.mwdgames.com.
LucasArts announce LEGO Star Wars II: The Original Trilogy
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This September 12, LEGO Star Wars II: The Original Trilogy gives you the chance to ride just about anything you saw in Episodes IV, V and VI as you build and battle your way through a tongue-in-cheek Star Wars experience.
TT Games directors Tom Stone and Jonathan Smith, and their team at Traveller’s Tales, were determined from the start to make LEGO Star Wars II more than just the already highly lauded original game with new settings and characters – it had to be a true sequel. In addition to greater focus on character (including individualized melee attacks and a hilarious Character Customizer), enhancing the use of vehicles was a big part of this. “We had three vehicle-based levels in the original game, and while they added some neat variety, they didn’t quite fit in with the rest of the gameplay,” says Smith. “We knew up front for LEGO Star Wars II that the universe of the Original Trilogy had a lot of fantastic ships and cool vehicles: the Millennium Falcon, X-wings, AT-STs, speeder bikes and so on. So we worked hard at the start to integrate them more effectively into the game.”
Obviously, key battles such as the Death Star trench run and the Battle of Hoth include vehicle-only gameplay, but even that has been expanded upon beyond what you played in the original LEGO Star Wars. “For the space scenes,” says Smith, “we’ve drawn directly upon elements of the gameplay which were successful in the character levels – exploration, interactivity and free play – and we’re delighted with the results.”
And that assortment of vehicles only grows with the construction of minikit vehicles. “You might remember assembling minikits in the first game by finding 10 minikit pieces spread throughout a given level,” says Perkinson. “That was fun, but you couldn’t do anything with them – they just sat parked outside as you built them. But in LEGO Star Wars II, once you’ve completely constructed a minikit, you can take it into a vehicle bonus level – each Episode has two, so there are six all together – and actually play with it.”
May the Force build with you with versions developed by Traveller’s Tales on PlayStation2 computer entertainment system, Sony PSP, Xbox 360 and Xbox video game system from Microsoft, Nintendo GameCube and Windows, as well as handheld versions developed by Amaze Entertainment for Nintendo DS and Nintendo Game Boy Advance.
Edge of Reality Announces Cipher Complex for next-gen
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Edge of Reality, the independent Austin, TX based game developer, today announced the development of their own self-funded next-gen project, Cipher Complex. After eight years of consistently producing commercially successful titles for various leading publishers, Edge of Reality has decided the time is right to give life to its own internal vision. Cipher Complex, the first completely original title from the company, is an intense, cinematic military combat game that will deliver a brutal shot of adrenaline straight to the hearts of next-generation gamers.
“The evolution of action games has seemed to plateau, perhaps because of the emphasis on sequels,” said Binu Philip, president of Edge of Reality. “We are exploring and developing brand new styles of gameplay and methods of storytelling. The concept and mechanics of Cipher Complex have been incubating in our mind for years, and with power of the next-gen consoles, we can finally make our dream project a reality.”
In Cipher Complex, a recon satellite is mysteriously blasted from orbit, and when diplomatic requests for information are stonewalled, the US government is forced to call in its last resort – Operative John Cipher. Charged with uncovering the truth by any means necessary, Cipher is going behind enemy lines to extract information the hard way.
Cipher Complex is slated for release on the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 in 2007.
Trauma Center Under the Knife review for DS
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Friday, June 23 2006 @ 15:15 CET]
Japanse games are most of the time weird for us, Western people.
Still many of them never gets released in Europe or rest of the world and that's a real shame.
Thankfully this one here made and we couldn't be any happier. It's a surgery game in which you have to use the Nintendo DS stylus to operate. Sound weird? Indeed but it could be a must buy DS game.
Read the full review of 'Trauma Center: Under The Knife' right here.
Micro Machines V4 PC demo now available
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Friday, June 23 2006 @ 12:19 CET]
Be the first to take Micro Machines V4 for a test drive and experience its incredible mix of miniature mayhem and maximum multiplayer racing with the PC playable demo, available now www.codemasters.co.uk/micromachines (in Downloads)
Micro Machines V4 brings back the series’ much-loved breakneck micro racing gameplay in all its glory and launches Friday, June 30th for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, the PSP™ system and PC with a Nintendo DS™ edition to follow
The PC demo lets up to four players duke it out on three outrageous tracks; around the kitchen, on the rooftops and inside the chicken coop. Players can get in some single-player practice as well with Quick Battle races against AI opponents.
The Kitchen Capers track has players belting around the kitchen counters, racing over scorching stovetops and leaping from the countertops to an ironing board. Players should beware the soapy lake that is the kitchen sink and use the floating sponge as an improvised raft to avoid a watery grave.
Then it’s outside to the chicken coop in the Pecking Peril race, which holds the horrors of seemingly giant chickens that try to peck the wheels off the tiny racers. Get past them and there are still their boulder-like eggs to dodge as they come tumbling like a landslide.
Finally, roar around the roof in Rooftop Rumble, racing down drainpipes and catching the updraft from an air vent. Collect weapon power-ups and let loose a fury with machine guns, missiles, electric-shockers and more!
New Nintendo DS Lite launches today in Europe!
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Nintendo’s sleek new hand-held console, the Nintendo DS Lite launches across Europe today following its phenomenal success in Japan and America. Now Europeans can enjoy all of their favourite games on a lighter, brighter Nintendo DS, available in black and white versions.
Nintendo DS Lite is an improved version of the highly successful Nintendo DS, which has already been bought by more than 4.5 million people across Europe since its launch.
When it launched in Japan and America earlier this year the Nintendo DS Lite was an overnight success, wooing consumers with its new redesign. Two days after its launch in America, the Nintendo DS Lite had sold a staggering 136,500 units with many major retailers totally selling out. The Nintendo DS Lite has been selling so fast that it is even outperforming the 2003 launch of the Game Boy Advance SP by 12%.
As Summer draws close the Nintendo DS Lite is the perfect holiday companion, with a strong line-up of software including: the recently launched Dr Kawashima’s Brain Training: How Old Is Your Brain? a unique and innovative application which allows users to test and train their brain in just a few minutes a day; and the first side scrolling Mario platform game since the days of the Super Nintendo Entertainment System, New SUPER MARIO BROS. which launches on 30th June 2006.
The Nintendo DS Lite will join the Nintendo hand-held range in two colours at launch black and white and will retail for around £100. The Nintendo DS Lite launches across Europe today, Friday the 23rd June 2006.
In Euro countries, the new DS Lite well sell at the same launch price of the original DS, 149 Euros.
EA announces Need for Speed: Carbon !
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Electronic Arts announced today that Need for Speed Carbon is in development and will hit the streets this November.
Developed by EA Black Box in Vancouver, British Columbia, Need for Speed Carbon delivers the next generation of adrenaline-filled street racing and will challenge players to face the ultimate test of driving skill on treacherous canyon roads.
"We pride ourselves on our ability to reinvent the franchise and continually uncover new and exciting trends in car culture. Canyon Racing is a real test of a driver's skill and we think it provides a fantastic game play opportunity to lean into," said Larry LaPierre, the game's executive producer.
What starts in the city is settled in the canyons as Need for Speed Carbon immerses you into the world's most dangerous and adrenaline-filled form of street racing. You and your crew must race in an all-out war for the city, risking everything to take over your rivals' neighbourhoods one block at a time. As the police turn up the heat, the battle ultimately shifts to Carbon Canyon, where territories and reputations can be lost on every perilous curve. Need for Speed Carbon delivers the next generation of customization giving you the power to design and tweak your crew's cars in every way using the ground-breaking new AutosculptTM technology. Represent your car class, your crew, and your turf in Need for Speed Carbon, the next revolution in racing games.
Need for Speed Carbon will be available for Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system, PlayStation3 computer entertainment system, and Wii as well as the PlayStation2 computer entertainment system, Xbox videogame system from Microsoft, Nintendo GameCube, Nintendo DS, Game Boy Advance, PSP handheld entertainment system, PC and mobile.
Patch For Xbox Version Of STACKED with Daniel Negreanu
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Friday, June 23 2006 @ 10:09 CET]
Myelin Media, LLC, a publisher of interactive entertainment software, today released a patch for the Xbox version of STACKED with Daniel Negreanu . The following patch is now available for download via Xbox Live, and it will address certain online and offline experiences.
1. Loss of accumulated bankroll. The game incorrectly resets a player’s online bankroll to $2,000, when they log on to Xbox Live. After installation of the patch, player bankrolls will be properly tracked and saved.
2. The STACKED Hall of Fame and Leaderboards are not updating correctly. After installing the patch through Live, the Leaderboard and Hall of Fame will properly track a person’s progress in Multi Table Tournaments and other online games.
3. Ask Daniel. Daniel’s Poker tips will be re-calibrated to correct for a few instances when the tip seemed off relative to the particular situation.
Another auto update will be available shortly to address the dirty disc error issue.
Prey PC demo available for download but no 360 yet!
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One of the most anticipated games for the PC (and X-Box 360) is of course the upcoming action FPS game "Prey".
Well good news for PC owners because developer 3D Realms has made the PC demo available for public and can be downloaded on this link.
For those of you with a X-Box 360 you'll have to wait some more time since 3DRealms President George Broussard made the following message on the 3DR forums about the availability of the Prey 360 demon on Marketplace:We do not want 360 people waiting up for the demo or having false expectations. The 360 demo will not appear on Marketplace tonight.
I'm still waiting for specifcs, but I'm being told that it's still in testing at Microsoft. From what I understand this isn't Microsoft's fault, and is more likely just an issue of timing.
I'm hesitant to give any estimates for a release, but I've been told it should be reasonably soon after the PC release, but could be as long as a few days.
We will post an update as soon as we have more solid information.
Blade Dancer: Lineage of Light comes to the PSP by Ignition
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Thursday, June 22 2006 @ 14:22 CET]
Ignition Entertainment is Proud to Announce the European Release of BLADE DANCER LINEAGE OF LIGHT for the PSP Entertainment Handheld System.
Developed by Hit Maker Co. Ltd, and Sony Computer Entertainment Worldwide Studios JAPAN studio, Blade Dancer is a PSP exclusive 3D role playing game, which is among the first of this genre to adopt a dynamic multi-player system.
Set in the fantasy world of Lunadia, a place that in the distant past had seen a fierce battle rage between the Evil Demon Lord and the Guardian of Light – Blade Dancer Gerald.
Evil was defeated, but the mysterious circumstances of the victory and the subsequent disappearance of the Blade Dancer had long been forgotten in the annals of history.
Present Day…
Playing as our intrepid hero Lance, a young and brave adventurer, you arrive on the Island of Foo – rumoured to be the place where the Demon Lord had been sealed. What you find here, along with the people you encounter, will re-open the past and hold the key to the fate of the world.
‘Blade Dancer is a PSP exclusive that truly uses the format to its full potential’ Says Peter Rollinson, Product Manager, Ignition Entertainment ‘with up to four players, stunning visuals and a revolutionary game system – we are confident that Blade Dancer will be the RPG of choice across Europe’
‘We're very excited that Blade Dancer is scheduled for European release, and would like to thank Ignition Entertainment for this opportunity’ Yukihiko Hojo, Producer, Hit Maker co. Ltd ‘We sincerely hope that everybody enjoys the game as much as we did in creating it.’
Blade Dancer Main Features:
- Full 3D real time world (Time will change from day to night)
- Unique real time battle system (Not turn based)
- A brilliant item synthesis system (Over 650 items)
- Unique monster encounter system (Physically see enemies on world map)
- Unique power sharing abilities with friendly and enemy units
- Network multi player mode (for upto four players)
Microsoft Announces X06
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Thursday, June 22 2006 @ 14:20 CET]
Microsoft today announced that X06, the Xbox brand experience for the games and entertainment industry, will be held on 27th and 28th September this year. It was also revealed that the glamorous, cosmopolitan and cultural city of Barcelona will be playing host to this year’s exclusive event.
Europe’s top media, partners, publishers and developers will be invited to the Catalan capital to experience the incredible evolution of the Xbox 360 console and the exciting offerings it is bringing to Europe.
At X06 Microsoft will unveil more plans for the Xbox 360, showcase the breadth of the next-generation line-up of games, the next wave of accessories and new world-class Xbox Live® entertainment experiences along with the latest Games For Windows® announcements.
For the first time Microsoft will also welcome South Africa, Hungary, the Czech Republic, Slovakia and Poland to the event having recently announced the launch of the Xbox 360 in these countries by the end of 2006.
Previous X0 events have been the setting for high-profile announcements such as the European pricing details for Xbox (2001); Xbox® Live™ and the acquisition of Rare (2002); the unveil of the new Xbox branding (2003) and the fantastic launch games line-up for Xbox 360 (2005). This year’s event will be no exception, and visitors to the Barcelona event should expect to be blown away with exclusive news announcements and amazing next generation gaming experiences.
As always, third party publishers and developers will have a strong presence, and will be using X06 as a platform to unveil major announcements and showcase forthcoming Xbox 360 titles.
A highlight of the gaming calendar, Xbox enjoys this opportunity to bring gamers together from across Europe and create a unique and immersive experience for their guests. Commenting on the announcement, Chris Lewis, regional vice president, Xbox, Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA), said: “We are really looking forward to X06 in Barcelona and believe this will prove to be an amazing experience for gaming enthusiasts across Europe. We have some exciting announcements to make and even more to show people. X06 will firmly place Xbox 360 as the console of the next generation.”
Updated Game Release List
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We have also updated our entire "Game Release List" with 100+ new games and release dates for Q3 2006.
If you want to know when your favorite game hits the shelves, then our Game Release List might help you out!
Driver: Parallel Lines X-Box review ONLINE
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Wednesday, June 21 2006 @ 16:24 CET]
Everybody that played Driv3r has probably put it away in the closet and locked it.
The game was horrible and didn't succeed in all the promises from developer Reflections.
Now that a new instalment is released on the famous Driver series, called "Driver: Parallel Lines", we couldn't refuse to review it.
Only to see wether the developer and publisher learned from its mistakes or not. Is Parallel Lines better than Driv3r?
Find out in our review of Driver: Parallel Lines.
Gameplay trailer released of Maelstrom
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Witness a war-torn future Earth with the first gameplay trailer video for Maelstrom, the forthcoming futuristic real-time strategy action epic for PC. The trailer is now available from the new Maelstrom microsite,
www.codemasters.co.uk/maelstrom (in Downloads), and reveals your battleground: an ecologically ravaged planet that’s crawling with morphing military tech and organic alien weapons.
Maelstrom’s dedicated microsite is now the online destination to register for exclusive game information feeds, grab the latest screenshots or join the Underground and talk tactics in the forums. As the site evolves, you’ll discover the hidden depths of the game’s three factions: the guerrilla freedom-fighting Remnants, the technologically advanced Ascension with their transforming robotic tech, and a mysterious alien race, the Hai-Genti, who have their own plans for the future of the planet.
With the characters, setting and pace of science-fiction Hollywood blockbuster wrapped in a top rate script from screenwriter James Swallow (Star Trek: Voyager, Doctor Who), Maelstrom is set to be the most frantic and destructive RTS gaming experience yet. Battling to control the future of the entire planet, you’ll take command from different viewpoints and employ faction-specific tactics and weaponry – from terraforming the land to harnessing the forces of nature to achieve your objectives.
Promising an explosive and varied mix of action-packed strategic missions set in totally destructible environments, Codemasters will publish Maelstrom in late September, exclusively for PC. Discover more about the future of planet Earth and the future of RTS gaming with the first Maelstrom gameplay trailer movie and more at the game’s new microsite, now live at www.codemasters.co.uk/maelstrom
Panzer Command: Operation Winter Storm Goes Gold!
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Matrix Games (www.matrixgames.com) and Koios Works (www.koiosworks.com) are pleased to announce that the upcoming World War II 3D Tactical game, Panzer Command: Operation Winter Storm, has gone gold and will be released on June 29th, 2006 at the Origins convention and the Matrix Games Online Store. Koios Works is known for their work on the acclaimed Tin Soldiers series, which combined battles from ancient history with 3D strategy gaming. Panzer Command: Operation Winter Storm will bring the same quality gameplay to a 3D tactical scale set on the Eastern Front in World War II.
Panzer Command: Operation Winter Storm is a 3D simultaneous turn based strategy game where you command either the Soviet or German forces during the desperate attempt to reach the encircled German 6th Army at Stalingrad. Each side has detailed 3D units of the historical vehicles and squads, from Panzer IIIs and T-34s to PanzerGrenadiers, Artillery and Air Strikes. Two campaigns (one German, one Soviet) tie the scenarios together, allowing core units to progress from battle to battle, gaining experience, medals and special abilities. A point system allows players to “purchase” additional units for each mission in the campaign as well as replace losses, forcing decisions on management of resources.
Panzer Command: Operation Winter Storm is expected to release in June, 2006.
Eidos confirms '10th Anniversary Edition' of Tomb Raider
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Eidos Interactive, one of the world’s leading publishers and developers of entertainment software, confirms today that they are developing a special ‘10th Anniversary Edition’ of Tomb Raider.
The new game is being developed by Crystal Dynamics, who recently launched Lara Croft Tomb Raider: Legend on Xbox 360, PS2, Xbox, PC and PSP, with versions on Nintendo DS, GBA and GameCube later in 2006.
“Our ‘10th Anniversary Edition’ of Tomb Raider, is a one-off title to celebrate both Lara and Tomb Raider, it will appeal not only to the loyal fans of the Tomb Raider series but will also attract a totally new audience.” Said Larry Sparks, Head of Brands Management at Eidos.
Tomb Raider™ originally launched in 1996 and is still one of the best selling videogame franchises of all time, with over 30 million copies sold.
The special ‘10th Anniversary Edition’ of Tomb Raider will be available on PlayStation 2, PSP and PC.
Asterix and Obelix XXL 2 Coming to PSP and DS
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Atari announced today that Asterix and Obelix XXL 2 is currently in development for Sony PSP and Nintendo DS by Tate Interactive and Mistic Software respectively.
Enhanced versions of the PlayStation2 and PC game of the same name, Asterix and Obelix XXL 2 for the PSP and DS take advantage of the unique capabilities of the two consoles while staying rooted in the same great tradition of parody that runs throughout the stories of Asterix and his friends.
The PSP version of Asterix and Obelix XXL 2 includes a completely new Wi-Fi two player mode which is easily accessible and great fun to play. With room for up to four players at once, gamers will be able to challenge others in an intensely entertaining Arena Team Battle. Pick from the most loveable characters in the Asterix universe and then let battle commence, unless the sky falls on our heads first. Multiplayer gameplay is made easily accessible with a simple interface to launch players straight into the action.
The version for Nintendo DS takes the story and gives it a shake with use of the stylus and touch screen so cunning that even the druid Getafix would be impressed. A number of hectic mini-games are incorporated into the central game to get that stylus moving, while the addition of two Wi-Fi multiplayer games gives players an extra burst of magic potion-fuelled Gallic mayhem.
Asterix and Obelix XXL 2 for PSP and Nintendo DS is scheduled for release across Europe in November 2006.
New Conan movie to go into production in early 2007
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Funcom points to an announcement from Paradox Entertainment where plans related to an upcoming Conan movie from Warner brothers are revealed and confirmed. According to Paradox Entertainment the deal may include several Conan movies.
Boaz Yakin has been hired as scriptwriter on the upcoming movie. He is known for titles like ‘Remember the Titans’ and ‘The Rookie’. One of the producers will be Akira Goldsman, known for titles like ‘Mr. and Mrs. Smith’, ‘Cinderella man’, ‘DaVinci code’ and the Oscar-winning ‘A Beautiful mind’, while additional producers include Irving Azoff, Jon Jashni and Richard Alexander. A director for the movie is to be selected this autumn.
"We are of course very happy to see that Warner Brothers are moving ahead with one, and potentially several, new Conan movies. We believe that this will further strengthen the Conan brand worldwide. The global fan-base of Conan will likely increase significantly and the marketing efforts of a Hollywood movie will have a very positive effect on all licensees working with the Conan brand, Funcom's Massively Multiplayer Online Game (MMO), ‘Age of Conan’, included." said Trond Arne Aas, CEO of Funcom.
Funcom has the exclusive worldwide rights to make MMOs on the Conan license up until 2023.
Drakensang teaser site launched
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Eagerly awaited by RPG fans all over the world, the upcoming RPG Drakensang: The Dark Eye now has a home on the web: today marks the launch of the official teaser website for the epic party-based RPG at http://www.drakensang.com.
Drakensang.com will gradually grow to be the place to go for exclusive content and information about the upcoming hit RPG: official news, exciting community events, screens, artwork and many features still under wraps will make up the site. At the moment, drakensang.com grants impatient gamers a first look at Drakensang’s beautiful graphics. Via a link to the ANACONDA boards, everyone can join the ongoing fan discussion on the official Drakensang forums.
Drakensang brings back epic party-based RPG gameplay in a breathtakingly detailed world, based on one of the world’s biggest pen & paper franchises. With incredible eye for detail, the world of Aventuria comes alive on the PC in state-of-the-art 3D graphics that bring to life the epic vistas and stunning variety of this one-of-a-kind fantasy world. Drakensang: The Dark Eye will be release worldwide in the 4th quarter 2007.
Core joins the Rebellion
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Rebellion has reached an agreement with SCi Entertainment Group plc to purchase the staff and physical assets of Core Design.
The deal will see Rebellion acquire the Derby studios and staff of Core Design, who will continue to work with Eidos on a new project and will be re-named.
The Core Design name and IPs will be retained by Eidos.
The acquisition forms an important part of Rebellion’s strategy to maintain its position as one of Europe’s leading independent studios.
Jason Kingsley, CEO and Creative Director of Rebellion said, ” Core is one of the UK industry’s major success stories and we’re delighted to have completed the deal with Eidos. With Next-Gen development upon us now, and publisher requirements changing, this studio’s deep and experienced talent allows us to continue to compete at a global level.”
Jason continues, “We are in a position where our products such as Sniper Elite and Rogue Trooper are receiving critical acclaim and our reputation for innovative, quality titles is in the ascendant. This acquisition is a major component in maintaining this progress, and together with our business plan for 2006, it’s our goal to develop Rebellion further.”
Glory of the Roman Empire goes Gold
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CDV's city-building simulation, Glory of the Roman Empire, has gone gold today.
Set for a June 26 retail release in North America, Glory of the Roman Empire puts players in the shoes of a Roman city-planner, charged with designing the empire's greatest cities while maintaining harmony among the populace.
The glorious age of Rome - a time when the empire was at its peak, envied and feared by friend and foe alike. All across the provinces governors spared no expense to build cities of unparalleled splendor and magnificence and leave their mark in history.
In Glory of the Roman Empire, players will enter this time of wonder and use their city building skills to create cities that would humble even Rome itself. Players will need to use careful planning and governance in order to become the empire's most respected ruler. Glory of the Roman Empire is an easy to learn, yet difficult to master city building and management simulation that will challenge players in an historically authentic settings, while lush graphics immerse the player in the culture of the ancient Roman Empire.
Rush for Berlin updated to v1.1
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Paradox Interactive announced today that players can now update their copy of Rush for Berlin to version 1.1. Improvements include:
- Smoother gameplay in multiplayer and in online play
- New features, e.g. units will now display the effective range of their skills.
- Enchanced balance and AI
Download the 1.1 patch from http://www.rushforberlin.com
Street date announced for Perimeter: Emperor's Testament
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Paradox Interactive, a leading publisher and developer of critically acclaimed strategy titles, announced today the street date for their next PC release, “Perimeter: Emperor’s Testament”.
Developed by KDV Games, this sci-fi RTS will ship to stores in North America and Scandinavia on Aug. 29, 2006.
"We loved the original Perimeter, and we are really excited about bringing this sequel to North American and Scandinavian gamers,” said Fredrik Wester, Director of Publishing at Paradox Interactive. “‘Perimeter: Emperor’s Testament’ embraces a similarly crazy and abstract storyline while offering great gameplay and numerous surprises.”
In search of the now-mythical Earth, the player is drawn into a battle between the Emperor and the Spirits in an action-packed science-fiction RTS environment. Key features include:
- Spectacular single-player campaign consisting of 25 missions.
- Phenomenal storyline, which crosses multiple dimensions and allows for diverse, exciting gameplay.
- Dazzling graphics, with each race having visually unique buildings and units.
- A full soundtrack, which captures the epic, sweeping scope of the action.
- Multiplayer via LAN and Internet on various multiplayer maps.
Patch available for Daemonica
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Game publisher, Meridian4 and game developer, RA Images, with cooperation from producer, Cinemax are releasing a patch for their arcane Adventure game; Daemonica.
About the Patch
The patch updates version 1.0 of Daemonica by fixing a few minor bugs and enhancing certain aspects of gameplay. It should only be applied to the English version of the full game.
Corrections
1. Fixes a rare crash when entering map panel by clicking the compass window
2. Fixes an inventory bug involving the bucket with water
Enhancements
1. Herbs now appear evenly throughout the acts making the task of creating potions much easier
2. Game can be run with an alternative text font (Times New Roman) making it easier to read
For more information about Daemonica or to download the patch, go to http://www.meridian4.com.
SEGA Rewards Total War Subscribers
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SEGA Europe Ltd. and SEGA of America, Inc, today are pleased to confirm Rome: Total War - Alexander, the latest expansion pack for Creative Assembly’s award-winning PC strategy title, Rome: Total War will be available exclusively for digital download to registered Total War fans on June 16th from www.sega.com, www.totalwar.com, and www.sega-europe.com, and on general sale from June 19th.
The expansion offers another epic addition to the Total War series boasting more than 30 hours of gameplay and will feature a brand new campaign game map, spanning Alexander’s unification of Greece and his subsequent conquest of the Persian Empire.
Alexander will utilise the unique gameplay of Rome to bring to life the meteoric rise of one of history’s most brilliant generals: Alexander the Great, The expansion pack will also include six new historical battles portraying Alexander’s triumphs against the Greek, Persian, and Indian forces. These will also be available for multiplayer play online and over LAN in a brand new Tournament mode that enables players to take on opponents over a series of historical battles.
For exclusive downloads and information, register at www.totalwar.com .
Eidos Announces US Ship Date For Tomb Raider: Legend On PSP
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Eidos Interactive, one of the world’s leading publishers and developers of entertainment software, part of SCi Entertainment Group Plc (SEG), confirmed today that Lara Croft’s latest and most anticipated adventure, Lara Croft Tomb Raider: Legend, will hit stores for PSP on June 21st in North America.
Lara Croft Tomb Raider: Legend is the seventh title to be released in the Tomb Raider series and marks its first leap into the world of the PSP system. This all-new quest brings Lara face-to-face with her past and takes her on a race to discover one of history’s most famous artifacts. Lara travels to international exotic locations and returns to the tombs to bring gamers one of the most exciting adventures of her career.
“Bringing Lara Croft to the PSP system was an obvious step for the Tomb Raider series,” says Bob Lindsey, Executive Vice President, Sales and Marketing at Eidos, Inc. “The PSP system’s amazing graphical and technical capabilities allow the gameplay experience of Tomb Raider: Legend for the PSP system to remain true to its console counterparts.”
Lara Croft Tomb Raider: Legend will bring PSP system gamers into the striking and adventure-filled world of Lara Croft with the new single-player Tomb Raider game which now includes three exclusive multi-player modes and a series of unique bonus features. The new features include PSP system-only soundtrack pieces, 3D wallpapers, image galleries and Lara skins exclusive to the PSP system. The three unique-to-the-PSP-system multiplayer gameplay modes offer an exciting challenge to those looking for gameplay of all kinds - intense multiplayer racing, fast-paced head-to-head treasure hunts and extreme obstacle courses.
Just a quick note that the European version of Tomb Raider: Legends for the PSP is already on the shelves since last friday. Just that you know.
Dragon's Lair in HD !
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For the first time ever you can experience the stunning classical animation of Dragon’s Lair in true High Definition video.
Digital Leisure went back to the drawing board with this latest Dragon’s Lair release to bring the most striking video ever seen from this classic laser disc video game. Using today's most sophisticated film transfer equipment the original Dragon's Lair film master was pulled from the vaults at Technicolor and carefully cleaned, reprinted and captured for this HD experience.
This all new Dragon’s Lair release for your PC DVD ROM, also comes with a completely new five channel surround sound audio mix. The original audio was remastered and cleaned to remove all non-natural background audio, and each scene was then analyzed to determine the best placement for each sound. With the stunning visuals and remarkable 5.1 surround sound audio, Dragon’s Lair HD offers you an experience beyond the arcade.
With Dragon's Lair HD you control the actions of Dirk the Daring, a valiant knight on a quest to rescue the fair princess Daphne from the clutches of an evil dragon. You must fight your way through the castle of a dark wizard who has enchanted it with treacherous monsters and obstacles.
Digital Leisure plans to follow-up Dragon's Lair HD with the release of Space Ace HD and Dragon's Lair II: Time Warp HD over the coming months.
Digital Leisure is a leading publisher of interactive DVD-ROM and DVD-Video titles. The company acquires and re-masters existing video-intensive titles that would benefit from the superior video and audio quality of DVD and HD.
Major League Baseball 2K6 For GC Now Available in North America
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Wednesday, June 14 2006 @ 12:10 CET]
2K Sports announced today that Major League Baseball 2K6 for Nintendo GameCube, the only official MLB video game for the platform, is now available in stores across North America.
Nintendo GameCube baseball fans will now be able to enjoy all of the landmark new features, high visual quality and innovative gameplay Major League Baseball 2K6 offers.
“GameCube fans can now enjoy Major League Baseball 2K6, the most comprehensive baseball experience to date,” stated Greg Thomas, president of Visual Concepts, a 2K Sports studio. “With great control mechanics, fluid visuals, and unique features, Major League Baseball 2K6 is the most fun, authentic baseball game ever published for the Nintendo GameCube.”
Major League Baseball 2K6 for Nintendo GameCube features standard-setting innovations including Inside Edge™- powered A.I., Swing Stick™ batting control, the all-new Payoff Pitching™ system, and commentary from Jon Miller and Hall of Fame legend Joe Morgan. The most comprehensive franchise mode with all-new trading tools as well as the inclusion of the World Baseball Classic™ round out the most complete baseball title to date.
Major League Baseball 2K6 is rated “E” for Everyone and is the only officially licensed Major League Baseball video game available on every major gaming console, including Xbox 360™ and Xbox® video game and entertainment systems from Microsoft, the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, PSP™ (PlayStation®Portable) system, and the Nintendo GameCube™.
The Nintendo GameCube version is now available for a suggested retail price of $39.99.
Totally Spies! Return on Nintendo DS
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Atari today announced that Totally Spies! 2: Undercover is in development and is set for release across Europe on Nintendo DS and Game Boy Advance in November 2006.
Following on from the original Totally Spies for Nintendo GBA and based on 5 totally new episodes of Marathon’s globally popular TV series, Totally Spies! 2: Undercover sees Clover, Alex and Sam, three stereotypical Beverly Hills girls, catapulted into the dangerous world of international espionage where only their wit, attitude and high-tech gadgets can help them save the World.
Featuring 25 levels of spytastic sneaking, dodging and chasing down evil international men of mischief, Totally Spies! 2: Undercover combines elements of platforming, racing, puzzling, shooting and fighting. Being at the cutting edge of hi-tech gadgetry themselves, Clover, Alex and Sam felt it beyond necessary to make sure that with its mixture of 2D and 3D graphics the DS version utilized the console’s unique touch screen, microphone and wireless multiplayer capabilities, which players will find Totally Spies! 2: Undercover does better than even one of Q’s gadgets. Not to be accused of dragging their feet, the girls made sure that the 2D Game Boy Advance version included one or two tricks of its own and it covers the 5 completely new episodes so well players could be forgiven for thinking they’re still watching the show.
“Totally Spies! 2: Undercover captures the magic of the Totally Spies television series and puts it directly into the hands of the fans”, said Tim Verschure, Senior Group Product Manager, Atari Europe. “Both the DS and the GBA versions offer stories from 5 episodes of the new TV series and let fans taste the exciting world of international espionage first hand.”
Totally Spies! 2: Undercover is scheduled for release across Europe in November 2006 on Nintendo DS
Sequel of Mercury coming this September to PSP
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Ignition Entertainment Ltd is today pleased to announce the sequel to the highly acclaimed PSP exclusive Archer Maclean’s™ Mercury.
Scheduled for a September 2006 European release, Mercury Meltdown will expand massively on the unique game play and look already experienced in the award-winning original (PSP innovation Award 2005 – IGN, Famitsu Magazine Gold Award).
Once again taking control of the liquid Mercury ‘blob’, players must avoid various obstacles and hazards to reach the end goal. The Mercury blob itself has now been given an overhaul and has 4 varying ‘states’ – Normal, Solid, Fast and Slow. These states allow for larger more complex levels, which in turn mean a greater challenge and more enjoyment to be had for the player.
The number of levels has more than doubled – now 160+, and with the newly added feature of Downloadable Content more levels will be made available at a later date, via Sony Computer Entertainment Europe’s official www.yourpsp.com website.
Wireless 2 Player modes have also been an important addition, with 5 sub games each providing a challenge against the computer or a friend.
‘For Mercury Meltdown, we have listened to the feedback received from the first title and have also added many new additional ideas’, says Vijay Chadha, Managing Director, Ignition Entertainment Ltd, ‘While remaining true to the first game, Mercury Meltdown has a more accessible look and feel designed to appeal to everyone.’
Micro Machines V4 goes GOLD
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MICRO MACHINES V4 has now gone gold and is speeding towards its June 30th launch date for the PlayStation2 computer entertainment system, the PSP system, and PC with a Nintendo DS edition to follow.
Everything you’ve always loved about the MICRO MACHINES games is back and turned up to eleven. Tiny sports cars race around the dinner table firing rockets, jam on the handbrake, turn sharply but don’t go careering over the edge!
Up to four players can challenge each other on MICRO MACHINES V4’s genius domestic raceways, weaving between train carriages on a model railway or ripping up the baize on a pool table.
Nibris announce Raide over the River for NDS
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Polish developer group Nibris known, among others, for planning to release Sadness – a gothic horror for Nintendo Wii console, revealed a little bit of the storyline “Raid over the river DS”. Let me remind that game represents vertical shooters and is the first title in the series of two (the second one is going to be realized for Nintendo Wii).
- It’s a title which is going to change the current image of a vertical shooter as a meaningless, arcade game which only tests the speed of player’s fingers. It is a title which is going to present how big potential, which was not used so far, his kind of games has. It is also a game which through relation to the classics, innovative original solutions, and xtensive storyline is going to make playing it an experience one of a kind. – says Marek Okoń, ROTR DS game designer.
Considering the genre of the game, the scenario is really extensive with the story taking place throughout almost 3 000 years; spreading over 6 dimensions related to Earth and putting the characters before choices consequences of which we will have to bear.
Everything starts when in Peru the archaeologists reveal an artefact of unknown origin. The knowledge it carries enables travelling in time, quite unique though. According to Deutsch-Everett theory, which describes temporalist’s paradigm, travelling in your own timeline is impossible. We can, however, go to past or future of Earth in a different dimension, and observe how the history of mankind developed there.
The game is planned to be released in the first half of 2007.
Demo Ship Simulator 2006 released
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Leading publisher Lighthouse Interactive and Dutch developer VSTEP today released the demo version of the revolutionary new sim game "Ship Simulator 2006".
The demo will let the player steer a patrol boat in the port of Rotterdam, the largest port in Europe. As the skipper of the boat you have to steer to different way points while watching out sharply for passing container ships and also having to save a drowning person. Meanwhile you're getting a tour of the Rotterdam port.
Pjotr van Schothorst, Technical Director at VSTEP and producer of the game: "The demo offers a good impression of what people can expect from the final game, especially in combination with the trailer, which shows more ships and features and weather conditions. As for the demo, we have chosen the harbour patrol vessel, because it offers a nice balance in responsive steering and realism. The ship handling you accidentally learn in the demo is usable in real life!"
Erik Schreuder, CEO of Lighthouse Interactive adds: "Ship Simulator 2006 promises to be a great new addition to the simulation genre and next week's launch is eagerly anticipated. We are excited to announce the playable demo, which will allow people a quick and tasty sample of the feel and gameplay, not to mention the superb water effects and graphics."
About Ship Simulator 2006
Ship Simulator 2006 is a revolutionary new game that puts players at the helm of some of the most varied and detailed ships to be found at sea, where they will need to perform a multitude of tasks, all set within a stunning 3D environment. Players will take control of a wide array of ship types, from massive cargo ships to speedboats, yachts, water taxis and even the mighty Titanic. The waters you sail are also as varied as the ships, from the biggest harbours in the world, such as Rotterdam and Hamburg, to the calm aqua marine waters of the Thai Phi Phi Islands. Gamers will experience how challenging it is to steer the Titanic through shallow water, or just how it feels to navigate a cargo tanker or tug boat - including how diverse the controls are. Ship Simulator 2006 offers attractive gameplay to a variety of people, from professional sailors to amateur watersport enthusiasts.
The playable demo weighs about 90 MB and is available from one of these mirrors:
Primary Download: http://www.shipsim.com
The Fast & The Furious video game for PSP
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Electronic Arts, the world's leading interactive entertainment software company today announced plans to co-publish with Namco Bandai Games Inc. a racing game based on Universal Pictures' upcoming summer feature film release "The Fast and the Furious:Tokyo Drift". Developed for the PlayStation2 computer entertainment system and PSP (PlayStation Portable) system, the video game (titled The Fast and the Furious) will be available from late summer 2006 in PAL territories.
The Video Game
Inspired by the events of Universal Pictures' upcoming film, The Fast & The Furious: Tokyo Drift, this game will immerse players in the underground world of drift racing. Set in a world related to the movie, the game features a ground breaking drift mechanic that makes drifting accessible to both beginner and veteran racing game drivers. Gameplay features revolutionary new systems like the Drift Indicator that make The Fast & The Furious the most accessible yet realistic drift game ever!
Perched at the forefront of the drift racing phenomenon, the video game combines ground breaking gameplay mechanics with unprecedented speed and authentic underground cool, positioning this game as the must-have drift racing title of 2006.
Half-Life: Episode 1 debuted #1 in retail
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Valve®, developer of the blockbuster series Half-Life and Counter-Strike, announced Half-Life 2: Episode One debuted at #1 on retail PC game charts across Europe, including the dominate markets of Germany, UK and France.
Episode One, released at retail outlets and via Steam® on June 1st, is the first in a trilogy of episodes that will conclude by Christmas of 2007.
"After spending six years creating Half-Life 2, we decided to build HL2's successor as a trilogy of episodes," said Gabe Newell, Valve's president and co-founder. "This has allowed us take greater risks in gameplay, move the technology forward faster, and let people know what happened when the Citadel blew up in 18 months, rather than asking them to wait 6 years."
Half-Life 2: Episode One advances the 15-million unit selling franchise and launches a new, three-part series that leads far beyond City 17. Half-Life 2: Episode One does not require Half-Life 2 to play, and is available via Steam and at retail stores around the world.
In addition to the new single player experience, two multiplayer games and a designers' Commentary Mode are also included. And those who purchase Episode One will have free access via Steam (www.steamgames.com) to Half-Life 2: Lost Coast, the interactive technology demo that introduces High Dynamic Range lighting to the Source Engine, Valve's award-winning game technology.
Ninety-Nine Nights Set to Storm U.S. Shores
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Saturday, June 10 2006 @ 9:29 CET]
Microsoft announced today that Ninety-Nine Nights will hit store shelves in the United States in August 2006. The Xbox 360 exclusive, developed by gaming luminaries Tetsuya Mizuguchi ("Lumines,""Meteos") and SanYoun Lee (“Kingdom Under Fire”), launched to high acclaim in Japan and Korea earlier this spring.
Published by Microsoft and developed by Phantagram and Q Entertainment, “Ninety-Nine Nights” is an epic fantasy action game that features a sweeping story, stunning graphics and physics, seven playable characters, and epic-scale battles that include hundreds of on-screen enemies.
“Ninety-Nine Nights” follows the journeys of seven warriors. In a struggle between light and dark, a new world order is established after the destruction of the “mysterious power stone.” Warriors are destined to battle in a place far beyond their imagination, as a magnificent story spun of drama and emotion unfolds from multiple perspectives.
O~3 Entertainment Announces Konductra for NDS
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O~3 Entertainment, an interactive entertainment publishing and distribution company, today announced that “Konductra”, a fast-paced puzzle game for the Nintendo DS, is scheduled to launch later this month.
Featuring four different gameplay modes, “Konductra” is a touch-based puzzle game where players match colored tiles, create patterns, and work to block opponent’s lines. Taking full advantage of the wireless connectivity of the DS, “Konductra” allows players to either challenge puzzle masters from around the world using the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection or go against a neighborhood friend via local wireless LAN.
“‘Konductra’ is a game that is perfect for the entire family, and a must have for those long summer road trips,” said Chris Jelinek, president of O~3 Entertainment. “With simple, fun, addicting gameplay, ‘Konductra’ is one of those rare games that you’ll find yourself playing for hours and loving every minute.”
About “Konductra”
Developed by oeFun, “Konductra” challenges players to create and destroy lines with colored tiles to either earn points or attack an opponent. This unique, but elegant puzzle title offers four game modes, including Task, Score, VS. CPU, and VS. Human. In both versus modes, the objective is to beat the opponent by filling up the rival’s board as quickly as possible by destroying lines on the player’s own board and sending them to the opponent’s board. Gamers destroy lines by matching tiles and using the stylus to trace from like colored conductors running along the four edges of the screen.
PlayDevil presents 14 now shots of Bad Day LA!
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Thursday, June 8 2006 @ 16:46 CET]
Thanks to its publisher, The Supersonic Group, we managed to get 14 new screenshots of American McGee's upcoming action / adventure game "Bad Day LA".
The 14 shots can be viewed right here.
DTM Race Driver 3 review online
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We have just published a review of Codemasters' new and latest race driver game, "DTM Race Driver 3" for X-Box. The game is also known as "Toca Race Driver 3" in several countries.
Is it any better than Race Driver 2? Has the developer added more features? And is the story mode still there?
All questions that are answered in our review by Jurgen of "DTM Race Driver 3".
Football Manager 2007 coming for PC and Console
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SEGA Europe Limited. is today proud to announce the next step in Sports Interactive's genre-defining Football Manager series.
Packed full with more than 100 new features, Football Manager 2007 is set for release on PC, Mac and Intel Mac, as well as the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft.
Football Manager Handheld on Sony’s PlayStation Portable handheld entertainment system (PSP) completes the format line-up, with all platforms set for a Christmas 2006 release.
The Football Manager team has taken the fans comments on board and have introduced a host of new features across all formats. Feedback specifically on the Xbox 360 version resulted in the Sports Interactive team compiling a new user interface to allow players to have a joypad friendly experience whilst still retaining all the depth of the game. Football Manager Handheld also sees an upgrade with more playable leagues, more features and, for the very first time, network play allowing you to compete against your friends on your PSP.
“We are constantly striving for perfection and are on track to deliver our most authentic football experience yet”, commented Miles Jacobson, Studio Director of Sports Interactive. “There will be a new, easy to use default skin, as well as improved hints and tips throughout the game. More in-depth feedback from your assistant manager and coaches, plus interaction with any player worldwide makes this an un-missable and very user friendly experience, and our best football game by a country mile.”
With all-new features, improved gameplay and a depth only seen from Sports Interactive, Football Manager 2007 and Football Manager Handheld offers a management simulation that is second to none. To whet the appetite of every Football fan, SEGA and Sports Interactive have unveiled just some of the new features available with more features for all platforms to be announced in the coming months.
Sensible Soccer 2006 is shipping
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Sensible Soccer 2006 has shipped to stores and is ready for kick off tomorrow, Friday 9th June, when the game launches for PlayStation 2, Xbox and PC.
To celebrate the return of the ultimate kickabout, Codemasters has a special launch-week offer: we’re handing out free packs of ‘Sensicards’ like a grumpy ref dishing out yellows in a derby match. Get yours now from the game’s website, www.codemasters.co.uk/sensiblesoccer2006.
Head over to the site, click on ‘Free Sensicards’ and bag yourself a set of printed, limited edition contact cards featuring glorious Sensi imagery. You choose the design, enter your contact details and then the cards will be personally printed for you and posted out direct to your door**. Result! Don’t hang about on the sidelines though; Sensicards are limited and when they’re gone, they’re gone.
Get ready for a glorious summer of football with Sensible Soccer 2006, out tomorrow, Friday 9th June. The Sensicards offer, along with the PC playable playable demo and videos, is now live online at www.codemasters.co.uk/sensiblesoccer2006
New Perfect Dark Zero Multiplayer Maps Available
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Microsoft Game Studios and Rare announced that they will be expanding the already extensive and exciting multiplayer experience of “Perfect Dark Zero” by adding four new battleground maps available now for download on Xbox Live Marketplace.
The four new maps, Plaza, Rooftops, Trench, and GasPlant will provide gamers with the ability to further their mission of becoming the Perfect Agent. All maps will be fully functional with all existing scenarios. Gamers can purchase these exciting new maps for 500 points from Xbox Live Marketplace.
Set in the year 2020 – years before the original hit game – Perfect Dark Zero is the origin story of the legendary Joanna Dark, a perfect agent and ultimate weapon. Equip Joanna with definitive state-of-the-art weaponry, gadgets, and vehicles in the Xbox 360-exclusive prequel to the international award-winning and multimillion-selling first-person shooter “Perfect Dark”.
For more information about “Perfect Dark Zero,” visit the official site “safe house” at http://www.perfectdarkzero.com/.
Atari to Distribute Thrillville Throughout Europe and Asia
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Atari today announced that it is to distribute Thrillville throughout Europe and Asia.
Published by Frontier Developments Ltd, the leading independent games developer headed by games industry pioneer David Braben, Thrillville is a new game scheduled for release for Christmas 2006 on the PlayStation2 computer entertainment system, Sony PSP and Xbox video game system from Microsoft.
Thrillville queue-jumps previous theme-park games with its access-all-areas pass to adventure and enjoyment, placing a fully interactive and customisable amusement park at the player’s fingertips. Throwing players of all ages immediately into the action, it allows them to experience the joys of creating and playing within their very own theme park. In addition to this, Thrillville adds social interaction, dozens of exciting party games for up to four players, and thrilling simulation unlike anything before. Thrillville also offers depth and rewards for those players who wish to customise and tweak to their heart’s content.
Created specifically for the console audience, Thrillville is the first theme-park based game that lets players experience at ground level what they’ve created, and as a playable character they can actively chat, joke and even flirt with every single park guest. The game has over 100 different interactive attractions and five different parks, each with three uniquely themed areas, where the fun ranges from racing on go-kart tracks and playing mini-golf on self-designed courses to joining friends for multiplayer first-person shooter competitions and many other party games.
Thrillville allows players to build and ride some of the most amazing roller coasters imaginable, as well as select where to place thrill rides, stalls and other playable attractions, such as videogame arcades, hover-car soccer, trampolines or bumper cars. As players tune their parks to perfection, even otherwise mundane tasks such as training staff are made light hearted as players improve their staff dancing and maintenance skills. Based around a mission-based framework, Thrillville provides a uniquely broad, deep and progressive gameplay experience. Meanwhile, a simple lobby system allows for instant access to players’ favourite attractions.
At the recent E3 2006 event in Los Angeles, Thrillville received much critical acclaim and was chosen by IGN as a Runner Up for Biggest PS2 Surprise, a Runner Up for Best PSP Strategy Game and was nominated for Most Innovative PS2 Game, Best PSP Multiplayer Game and Most Innovative PSP Game.
Midway Announces Myst For PSP
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Midway Games Ltd., a subsidiary of Midway Games Inc, today announced a European publishing agreement (excluding South Africa, Australia and New Zealand) for Myst on PSP, the latest version of the epic adventure from Cyan Worlds.
Over a decade since PC adventurers first sampled the delights of Myst’s emotive and visual feasts, the new handheld development will engage the player like never before and literally take them to another world.
There are no instructions and the player begins a voyage of exploration without encountering a single living soul. Alone on a mysterious island, you set out to explore its grandeur and mystery. Here a chilling tale of intrigue and injustice, defying all boundaries of space and time, is being told. Quickly, though, it becomes clear every action can somehow help unfortunate individuals trapped somewhere in a parallel dimension. The Myst adventure is like no other, tantalizing with its unique combination of lavish environments, puzzles, mazes, and a sizzling underlying drama which steadily unfolds to reward the player further still. More details about the game and release information will be made available shortly.
The Legend of Heroes II For PSP Shines Gold
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NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc. announced today that "The Legend of HeroesTM II: Prophecy of the Moonlight Witch" for the PSP has gone gold.
With accessible gameplay and enhanced enemy A.I., this visually dazzling game unfurls a coming-of-age tale of two heroes who must combine courage and strength to save their world. Part of the "Gagharv Trilogy" in Japan, "The Legend of Heroes II: Prophecy of the Moonlight Witch" promises carefully crafted character art, an epic storyline, and the always endearing "pet system" that make this RPG series unique.
As part of their initiation into adulthood, Jurio and Chris embark on a pilgrimage to five shrines surrounding their village. With the help of their new-found friends, the duo discovers a sinister threat set to destroy their home and surrounding areas. Can Jurio and Chris stop the Raual Wave emanating from Queen Isabella's castle? Will they discover the identity of the mysterious "Moonlight Witch" who predicted it all? Players can join in the adventure with this poetic turn-based role-playing title arriving in June.
Heroes Of Might And Magic V Patch Released
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Nival Interactive announces that Heroes of Might and Magic V has been updated to the version 1.1.
The patch fixes certain interface issues, balances game play in both singleplayer and multiplayer modes, fixes video card errors/conflicts, and addresses other minor issues in the game. Additionally, the patch adds new features to the game: an auto-patcher and "easy" mode that will help newbies to enter the game smoothly.
To read the full list of corrections and to download the path, please follow the link:
http://www.nival.com/homm5/files/
Tomb Raider: Legend on PSP to hit shelves
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Eidos Interactive, one of the world’s leading publishers and developers of entertainment software, confirms that Lara Croft Tomb Raider: Legend will be released on Sony Portable (PSP) on Friday June 6th across all PAL territories.
Lara Croft Tomb Raider: Legend revives the athletic, intelligent and entertaining adventurer who won the hearts and minds of gamers worldwide. Lara comes alive with intricately animated expressions, moves and abilities, allowing gamers to experience tomb raiding as never before.
The PSP version of Lara Croft Tomb Raider: Legend, features all of the adventure, puzzles and excitement gamers expect from a Tomb Raider title, plus a number of exclusive game modes such as a wi-fi head to head mode and two player treasure hunt, plus a host of Bonus Reward Content.
Datel announce Power Duo Pack for PSP
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Wednesday, June 7 2006 @ 16:34 CET]
Ever had your PSP run out of power just as you reached the end-of-level boss? Ever had your blockbuster movie cut out on you as the plot reached its climax? Ever wished you had a spare to fall back on as your PSP’s rechargeable battery faded and died? With Essential Power Duo Pack, you get not one, but two spare batteries for your Sony PSP!
Essential Power Duo Pack gives you two MAX Power batteries, each a direct replacement for the PSP’s own rechargeable cell. Each battery boasts Lithium-Ion rechargeable technology, offering up to ten hours of power per charge, depending on what you’re using it for. You need never be short of a charged battery again!
Essential Power Duo Pack is out now, and costs £29.99 UK.
Features
• Same performance as the battery supplied with the PSP.
• Up to ten hours of use per charge.
• Always have a spare battery handy.
• 3.6 volts.
• 1800 MAH
Xbox 360 releases over 125 new features via Live!
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Starting June 6, Xbox 360 gamers will be able to access a vigorous system-wide update creating a new pinnacle for next-generation gaming and entertainment. The Xbox 360 spring update introduces more than 125 revolutionary features and enhancements adding to Xbox 360’s sheer power, stunning high-defintion graphics, rich online capabilities and innovative media offerings delivering a digital gaming and entertainment experience that simply can’t be matched.
Since the launch of Xbox 360 in November 2005, Microsoft has continuously focused on gamer and community feedback to determine further improvements and enhancements for the evolving next-generation experience, resulting in this inaugural mass update. With more than half of all Xbox 360 gamers connected online, Xbox is further catering to its fans by delivering the spring update in the way they want it. This free update will be digitally distributed over Xbox Live to all members (Xbox Live Silver and Gold) with no disc or hard drive required to take advantage of the plethora of new features. Gamers without an Xbox Live account can easily sign up for the free network by connecting their console to a broadband internet connection. Once online, downloading the update takes less than a minute and provides instant access to features including:
Xbox Live Marketplace Enhancements
- New background download manager gives gamers the ability to queue up and download six high definition items at a time including playable game demos, Xbox Live Arcade games, music videos and movie trailers while actively playing games or browsing the dashboard. As an added benefit, if gamers engage in multiplayer gameplay while downloads are in process, the new background download manager will automatically pause the download queue until the multiplayer session is complete ensuring a continuously optimal gameplay experience.
- Updated Xbox Live Marketplace menus makes it easier for players to find and store all of their gaming and entertainment content. This includes the addition of new menus for media and entertainment content as well as enhanced menus making it easier for gamers to find what’s new in each section as well as a quick view at all downloads by category.
- Full remote control features for Xbox Live Marketplace videos allow gamers to fast forward and rewind at various speeds (2X-16X) during all videos downloaded from Marketplace.
Music Player Improvements
- Custom background music now continues to play without interruption during game loads and when transitioning from game to game or disc content.
- During music play, the music playback screen now showcase the artist, song title and time remaining on the song along with a visualizer showing which song on the playlist or album is currently playing.
- DVD Movie Playback Upgrades
- DVD movie bookmarking now allows gamers to pause a movie at any point, put in a game for gameplay and return to the movie at the exact point it left off.
- Improved DVD movie playback for a smoother, higher quality viewing experience, including additional VGA support.
These features are just some of the new experiences gamers can expect on the system as part of this spring update. For a list of additional new features and improvements, visit www.xbox.com/live.
Titan Quest Goes Gold
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THQ and Iron Lore Entertainment today announced that Titan Quest has reached the gold master stage of development and is entering manufacturing.
This highly anticipated action Role-Playing Game (RPG) will take Windows PC gamers on a transcontinental journey through the treacherous and exotic lands of Greece, Egypt and Asia, blending an immersive storyline with fast-moving combat and lush, cinematic gameplay for the ultimate RPG experience. Developed by Brian Sullivan's (co-creator of Age of Empires) Iron Lore Entertainment, Titan Quest is scheduled to begin shipping to retailers worldwide on June 26, 2006.
"Working with strong studios like Iron Lore Entertainment is key to THQ's strategy of bringing new, innovative properties to core gamers," said Kelly Flock, executive vice president of worldwide publishing, THQ. "The Titan Quest team has done a great job of creating a visually stunning game with the potential to reinvigorate the action RPG genre. We can't wait to hear the consumer response."
In Titan Quest, gamers will quest through fabled locations such as the Parthenon, the Great Pyramids, the Hanging Gardens of Babylon and the Great Wall of China, to save humanity from terrifying monsters, mythical beasts and the evil Titans who have escaped their eternal prisons. The game features a deep single player and co-operative multiplayer game experience with an epic story written by award-winning screenwriter Randall Wallace (Braveheart, The Man in the Iron Mask).
A single-player demo for Titan Quest is now available online at FilePlanet.com. For more information about Titan Quest, please visit www.titanquestgame.com.
Change the Nintendo DS into a multimedia machine!
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With MAX Media Dock for DS and DS Lite, you can turn your happening handheld into a powerful home entertainment device, with movies, music and more played directly from any Compact Flash card of up to 8GB.
At the heart of MAX Media Dock is Datel’s exclusive MAX Media Player, supplied on a DS cart. Insert it into the slot used for DS games, and you’re ready to roll with our fully featured browser. From here, you can access data stored on a Compact Flash card, which fits in your DS’s GBA port using the supplied Media Dock.
MAX Media Player can play MP3s directly from your flash card, giving you access to music on the move. It can also stream video footage, and access your JPEGs for a convenient photo viewer. Perhaps best of all, it can launch executable programs stored on the flash drive, giving access to a thriving NDS home brew scene. Check out the MAX Media Player’s own mini-site at http://us.codejunkies.com/mpds/index.htm or do a Google search for “DS home brew” and you’ll find all sorts of downloadable applications, games and emulators for your new handheld. How cool is that?
Sold in three versions, MAX Media Dock for DS and DS Lite is available bundled with 1GB or 2GB Compact Flash card, or there’s the cardless Base Version for those who already have a Compact Flash card.
LocoRoco demo rolling onto PSP
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Sony Computer Entertainment Europe announces a downloadable demo of LocoRoco - the jolly, happy game of the moment.
Downloaded via www.yourpsp.com, the brilliantly quirky demo is the first to be saved directly onto Memory Stick Duo - allowing players to get rolling whenever and wherever they want.
The demo is the latest example of how the PSP (PlayStation®Portable) experience is continually evolving. Downloadable game content joins previous updates such as internet browsing and RSS compatibility, keeping PSP right at the forefront of portable entertainment.
Audiences have been clamouring for a taster of LocoRoco ever since its initial unveiling, and the colourful new star of PSP rolled up a host of awards at the recent Electronic Entertainment Expo 2006 - including best artistic design, most innovative game, and PSP game of E3.
A perfect introduction to downloadable game content, the demo offers players a glimpse into LocoRoco's fresh new world, where jelly-like creatures (LocoRoco) sing, roll and bounce their way through levels to reach their goals. The demo offers a unique experience that's guaranteed to entertain you for hours on end, but it's merely a glimpse of what the full game - launched on 23 June in the UK and Ireland and 28 June across all other SCEE Territories - has to offer.
Strategic Command 2 - Blitzkrieg! v1.01 Patch released!
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Battlefront.com and Fury Software just announced that the v1.01 Patch for the new grand strategy wargame Strategic Command 2 Blitzkrieg is now available!
This 27 meg patch contains nearly 100 different enhancements, tweaks, user suggestions and bug fixes, as well as a number of brand new AI scripts and routines and additions to the powerful map and script editors to support the excellent work by the modding community.
Strategic Command 2 Blitzkrieg v1.01 Patch Download Page:
http://www.battlefront.com/products/sc2/downloads.html
Theme-park Thrillville coming this Christmas
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Frontier Developments Ltd, the leading independent games developer headed by games industry pioneer David Braben, today announced Thrillville, its new game for Christmas 2006 on the PlayStation2 computer entertainment system, Sony PSP and Xbox video game system from Microsoft.
Thrillville is an all-access pass to adventure and fun, allowing you to party nonstop in a fully interactive and customizable amusement park that you create. Combining elements of social interaction, party gaming and simulation like nothing before, Thrillville presents gamers of all ages with immediate action and allows them to experience the joys of creating and playing within their very own theme park. At the same time, it offers the necessary depth to reward those who want to tweak and customize to their heart's content.
Built with the console audience in mind, Thrillville is the first theme-park game that lets you experience at ground level what you've created as a playable character who can actively chat, joke and even flirt with every single park guest. The game has over 100 different interactive attractions and 15 unique environments (five different parks, each with three uniquely themed areas), where the fun ranges from racing on go-kart tracks and playing mini-golf on courses you designed to joining friends for multiplayer first-person shooter competitions and many other party games. Build and ride amazing roller coasters, place thrill rides, stalls and other playable attractions wherever you'd like, such as videogame arcades, hover-car soccer, trampolines or bumper cars. As you tune your parks to perfection, even such otherwise mundane tasks as training your staff become a blast, as you play to improve their dancing and maintenance skills. Based around a mission-based framework, Thrillville provides a uniquely broad, deep and progressive gameplay experience. Meanwhile, a simple lobby system allows for instant access to your favourite attractions.
Updated Cheats & Hints database
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Our "Cheats & Hints" database was a bit outdated since the latest cheats and hints were dated December 2005.
As of today, we have updated the database with a lot of existing and future upcoming games.
Even cheats for just released games such as the 'Rockstar presents Table Tennis' game for X-Box 360 are HERE!
If you're stuck in a game or want to know what kind of cheats are available, you might want to check our Cheats & Hints.
New Oblivion Quest Coming
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Saw on Blue's that the 'The Elder Scrolls Website' is updated with info on a forthcoming digital quest for Oblivion called "Mehrunes' Razor".
Price: $2.99.
Here's a quick word on the upcoming quest:
The lost Ayleid City Varsa Baalim has been unearthed by a rogue Telvanni arch-mage, in pursuit of a fearsome Daedric Artifact, Mehrunes Razor, which he believes will give him the power he needs to topple the Imperial reign - but what horrors lie in wait beneath the Valus mountains; and can you overcome them to claim Mehrunes Razor as your own?
Heart of Empire: Rome gets postponed
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Paradox Interactive announced today that "Heart of Empire: Rome", one of their upcoming strategy titles to be published in North America, has been postponed until Q1 2007.
"Heart of Empire: Rome" is a strategy and simulation game set in ancient Rome. The title is developed by Deep Red (developers of "Tycoon City: New York") and the team has released various screenshots and trailers over the past couple of months, some of which can be found on the Paradox website: http://www.paradoxplaza.com
This game takes you right to the heart of the empire. Preside over the building of The Eternal City of Rome and rule over one of the greatest empires of all time! Choose from over 100 different buildings. Your growing population, however, doesn’t just need a place to live – it also needs food and entertainment. If you don’t fulfil your people’s needs, there’ll be a riot! The goods coming in from the provinces must be carefully controlled, and your duties and your power grow in proportion to the amount of political influence you can gain in the senate. The ground-breakingly realistic 3D graphics give you the impression of being right in the middle of things, and you can use the completely controllable camera to zoom in on your citizens. Walk around the ancient streets you’ve created or follow the Romans as they go about their business in the city. You can even watch the traders touting their wares in the bustling markets! And don’t forget to drop in on the chariot races – the one who dares, wins!
Playable demo available of Sensible Soccer 2006 !
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The summer of football begins: Sensible Soccer 2006 PC playable demo and new movie now available to download from http://www.codemasters.co.uk/sensiblesoccer2006
Lightning fast speed, spectacular goals hammered past the keeper with tons of after-touch, truly addictive gameplay and the famous top down view can mean only one thing: Sensible Soccer is on its way back!
Sensible Soccer 2006 returns next Friday, June 9th (the same day as some football tournament starts in Germany) for PlayStation 2, Xbox and PC. The first half starts right now with the playable PC demo; banana-kick your browser to www.codemasters.co.uk/sensiblesoccer2006 and hit the Download section. PlayStation 2 and Xbox gamers can warm up with the all-new video, also available from the site in downloads.
The brilliant PC demo enables you to get out on the pitch, play a full England versus Argentina match and hone your skills ahead of the game’s full release. See if you can replicate England’s exciting win over the Argies last year: it's time to start smashing that ball in the back of the net!
Prepare for a glorious summer of football with Sensible Soccer 2006 and the World Cup – both kick off next Friday. Both great. But Sensi’s more fun. Find out why with the PC demo and new video available online at http://www.codemasters.co.uk/sensiblesoccer2006
PlayDevil presents The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion review!
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Another new review just went online. This time it's reviewer Matt that took care of playing and reviewing one of the finest and most beautiful RPG games.
Now available for the PC and the X-Box 360 only it's Bethesda Softworks latest work, "The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion".
You can read Matt opinion on this RGP right here.
Painkiller: Hell Wars gets delayed!
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DreamCatcher Interactive Inc., a global publisher of interactive entertainment, today announced that it is extending the development time for Painkiller: Hell Wars, its award-winning first-person shooter soon to be available for Xbox, in order to ensure that the game meets the high standards of its predecessor.
The additional time will be used to fine tune the gameplay so it delivers a fun, high-quality, action-packed gaming experience.
“We want to ensure that all of the best features from the PC version are fully integrated into Painkiller: Hell Wars and that the Painkiller experience on Xbox exceeds our customer’s high expectations for this successful brand,” said Byron Gaum, Global Product Marketing Manager at DreamCatcher Games. “Too often, titles are rushed to market that fall short. DreamCatcher is committed to making Painkiller: Hell Wars a must-have title for the Xbox, and quite possibly the last great shooter on the Xbox platform.”
“With millions of gamers still playing on first generation Xboxes, and the market ripe for a new top-notch shooter, we want to deliver the very best game possible and surpass the legacy of the original, award-winning PC version of Painkiller,” said Marshall Zwicker, Vice President of Marketing at DreamCatcher Games. “We know when Painkiller: Hell Wars is released later this year it will live up to the hype, and offer an absolutely unforgettable gaming experience.”
New games in the office
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Just to let you all know that in the past days some new games have arrived here @ the PlayDevil office.
In a few days we'll send them out to the reviewers so expect them soon in the review section.
Here's a selection of what we received lately:
- Rockstar Games presents Table Tennis (360)
- Hitman: Blood Money (360)
- Super Princess Peach (DS)
- Chibi Robo (GC)
- The Da Vinci Code (xbox)
- Viewtiful Joe Red Hot Rumble (PSP)
- SOCOM: Navy Seals (PSP)
You see, a whole bunch of new goodies, waiting to be reviewed. Expect them soon!
Nintendo's Magnetica next week on shelves
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Scientists say magnets provide no real medical benefits, but Nintendo begs to differ.
Magnetica is the perfect prescription to combat boredom during long summer travel. This new puzzle game, made exclusively for Nintendo DS, involves much more than bashing aggies in a marble ring on the playground blacktop. Magnetica lures players in with a simple premise, then challenges them to keep their cool through frenzied rounds of marble elimination. Magnetica, Rated E for Everyone, launches on June 5.
"Magnetica is the perfect game to kick off our new Touch Generations brand of casual games," says George Harrison, Nintendo of America's senior vice president of marketing and corporate communications. "It's a game that anyone can pick up and play, whether for a few minutes or a few hours."
Magnetica is the hand-held version of the popular arcade game Puzz Loop, with a few twists that could only be possible using the abilities of Nintendo DS. Players use the touch screen to flick marbles one by one at an ever-growing spiral chain of marbles. Like-colored marbles attract one another. Whenever three marbles of the same color connect, they vanish, sometimes setting off massive chain reactions.
In single-player modes, players can find bonus items that can slow or stop time, or even reverse the course of the marbles. Challenge mode features 99 levels on four difficulty settings, Quest mode offers players a variety of missions and Puzzle mode requires players to eliminate all marbles on the screen using a limited supply of their own. Players must deal with marble-stymieing obstacles like wind, water, switches and multiple launchers. In the two-player Versus mode, players can frustrate their opponents with an array of diabolical weapons: Ion Clouds create smoke screens, Recoils block an opponent's marbles, Black Holes devour marbles and Gravitons alter the path of launched marbles.
Flipper Critters joins the Nintendo DS
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Conspiracy Entertainment Europe is pleased to announce the signing of Flipper Critters for Nintendo DS, from Hungarian developer, Zen Studios Ltd.
Flipper Critters is set to redefine the entire pinball genre – and create the fastest, funniest, the most colorful and exciting pinball game to reach the Nintendo DS
The entire Flipper Critters experience is set in a rich and engaging fantasy world, complete with strange characters, perilous quests and a host of challenging arcade mini-games. Utilising the full potential of both screens, Flipper Critters shows off every angle and aspect of the vibrant, cartoon world!
Instead of confining the action to a standard pinball table, all of the fast-flipping action in Flipper Critters takes place in a variety of landscapes, locations and areas, from town squares and mountain valleys through to towering castles and even the surface of the moon! All of the most famous and favourite pinball features are still there, including ramps, sinkholes, bumpers, jackpots, gates and goals – though not as you know them.
And that's not all. Flipper Critters also features a wide range of mini-games which challenge players to master a variety of new skills and make use of the unique aspects of the Nintendo DS, including the touch screen and WiFi. Players can access several mini games and travel to different areas of the map from the pinball tables within the game. The mini games and areas can be accessed in any order, making the gaming experience different for each player and each gameplay session.
Throughout the game, players will encounter and receive help from some of Flipper Critters' peculiar inhabitants. Characters can offer help, cast spells or offer the player quests and challenges to undertake, helping them to reach new areas of the map.