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] [Posted by Bjorn on Thursday, August 31 2006 @ 16:41 CET]EA announce Fight Night Round 3 ... for the PS3
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Electronic Arts (Nasdaq: ERTS) announced today that EA SPORTS™ Fight Night Round 3 will be released for the PlayStation®3. The Best-Selling Next-Generation Sports Game on Xbox 360, EA SPORTS Fight Night Round 3 continues to innovate with exclusive features for the PlayStation. EA SPORTS Fight Night Round 3 will launch this winter with exclusive gameplay features for the PlayStation 3.
“Gamers loved the realism of EA SPORTS Fight Night Round 3 when it was released on Xbox 360 because of its incredible next-gen graphics and gameplay,” said Michael Blank, producer, EA Canada. “With EA SPORTS Fight Night Round 3 for PlayStation 3, we want to give gamers an exciting and unique gameplay experience that will take the realism of Fight Night even further by allowing players to live the game through their own eyes. This is the closest you’ll get to trading blows with Muhammad Ali. ”
Aside from bringing the intensity and signature gameplay that the EA SPORTS Fight Night franchise is known for to PlayStation 3 gamers worldwide, the PlayStation 3 version will showcase a unique gameplay feature set including an exclusive new mode called Get in the Ring that continues to cement this title as the king of the virtual ring.
Ubisoft announce Brothers in Arms: D-Day for PSP
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Thursday, August 31 2006 @ 16:38 CET]
Today Ubisoft, one of the world’s largest video game publishers, and Gearbox Software, one of the world’s leading independent video game developers, announced Brothers In Arms® D-Day, a World War II squad-based action game available exclusively for the PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system.
Developed specifically for the PSP system, Brothers In Arms® D-Day will offer a new and unique gaming experience. Players will experience the intensity of WWII through the stories of Sergeants Baker and Hartsock and their squad of paratroopers during the Normandy invasion. Brothers in Arms® D-Day is being developed by Ubisoft Shanghai in collaboration with Gearbox Software and will be available in Autumn 2006.
Brothers In Arms® D-Day brings players the best of the Brothers In Arms® franchise in a handheld gaming system. Players will experience D-Day as a Screaming Eagle with more tactics and action exclusive to the PSP system. Now players can surprise the enemy for the ultimate advantage in firefights, leading a fire team throughout the entire Normandy campaign. For the first time, players will also be able to lead a bazooka team, order their squad on an MG42, or fire mortar rounds. An enhanced co-op mode (Skirmish) offers players a 12-mission campaign.
Cradle Holder for PSP by Talismoon available
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Thursday, August 31 2006 @ 16:37 CET]
Talismoon’s latest devilish innovation offers a hands free mount for your PSP™ while on the road. Designed utilizing the highest quality materials to ensure a rock-steady hold, the Talismoon InTouch car cradle will keep the PSP™ within reach at all times and most importantly in a safe manner.
Boasting a super simple ‘stick and play’ installation, this product is ideal for hardcore PSP® owners who can’t stand to be without the PSP™ whilst on the road, perfect for traffic jams, lunch breaks or even to keep the kids quiet in the back seat!
Infact the In Touch is one incredibly versatile piece of kit and can be shown off just about anywhere with a flat surface. A specially engineered design featuring a super secure locking mechanism makes the In Touch a perfect accompaniment for watching media and movies, listening to audio, playing games, viewing map packs or perhaps one day befriending GPS navigation on the PSP™.
The Talismoon InTouch PSP™ car cradle is now shipping and costs $19.95 (USA) or £12.95 (UK).
NCsoft rolls out new Auto Assault update
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Thursday, August 31 2006 @ 16:36 CET]
NCsoft® Europe today announced the release of a free update to Auto Assault® in both Europe and North America. Both current and new players stand to benefit with many new missions, cooler loot, enhanced tournament play and system-level changes designed to make post apocalyptic destruction even more fun.
Developed by NetDevil®, LTD, this latest installment for Auto Assault introduces a new arena tournament map and the Coliseum for higher level players. In addition to many new missions in the world, the new arena map, Emergence, contains six types of power-ups players can find and use, and features death matches designed to make player-versus-player combat more fun and promote movement across the map.
The Coliseum, found in Ground Zero, is built for those training to become the post apocalyptic elite. Players at levels 60, 65 and 70 may participate solo or in a convoy and battle wave after wave of increasingly nasty creatures and other surprises for experience, loot and more.
For new players, the game is simply easier to get into and play. More head-on combat, improved vehicle control, better chassis and weapons earlier in the game, and auto-targeting combine with system-level enhancements to make the lower levels of the game more fun, the destruction more intense, and players feel more successful at the start.
In addition, a suite of powerful items have been introduced that will take players to a new level of skill. Dubbed the Battlemaster Set, these items are only available to players through purchase with outpost tokens. The only way to receive an outpost token is to capture and hold outposts for incremental periods of time. The Battlemaster Set of items is available through certain token vendors in the world. Players donning these items certainly set themselves apart.
In addition to all of this great new content, NCsoft Europe announces a new customer referral program for Auto Assault. Players who successfully recruit their friends to join in the fun can earn free game time. For more information about the referral program, go to http://eu.autoassault.com/.
Create your own Xbox 360 and Windows PC game
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Thursday, August 31 2006 @ 16:35 CET]
Microsoft today released the public beta of XNA Game Studio Express, the pioneering technology designed to open up game development to new audiences, including hobbyists, students and independent developers, in the hopes of injecting a shot of creativity into the electronic entertainment industry.
Novice game creators can download the tool today from http://msdn.microsoft.com/xna to develop games for Windows XP and Windows Vista, at no charge. The games built on Windows can be migrated to the Xbox 360 console system starting this holiday season as part of the XNA Creators Club subscription for $99/€99 a year, or a four-month trial cost of $49, opening up retail console game development to anyone for the first time.
Since the announcement of XNA Game Studio Express’ upcoming availability on August 14, the public response has been overwhelming – more than 100 schools have requested information on how they can incorporate XNA Game Studio Express into their curricula and the breakthrough news has generated millions of hits on Internet search engines.
As one of nearly 20 leading universities worldwide incorporating XNA Game Studio Express into their curricula, including Southern Methodist University’s Guildhall and the University of Southern California’s GamePipe, Microsoft announced additional support from DigiPen Institute of Technology in Redmond, Washington, a leader in the field of digital interactive entertainment education. Through its ProjectFUN software running on XNA Game Studio Express and summer workshops starting in 2007, DigiPen will bring Xbox 360 console game development for the first time ever to thousands of children ages 10 through 16.
“XNA Game Studio Express is an incredibly accessible tool for making games for Microsoft’s game platforms and will provide our university students with modern tools and console development experience,” said Claude Comair, founder and chairman of the board at DigiPen Institute of Technology. “And now with our ProjectFun for XNA Game Studio Express, we’re eager to extend our educational offerings on Windows and Xbox 360 to include young children.”
Atari Europe will publish The Witcher for PC
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Atari Europe and CD Projekt Sp. z.o.o. today announced that the companies have entered into a publishing agreement for The Witcher, whereby Atari will market and distribute CD Projekt’s upcoming fantasy role-playing game throughout Europe and Asia in Spring 2007.
The Witcher transcends traditional fantasy role-playing by throwing players into a unique world rife with political intrigue, in which the lines between good and evil are blurred, with players taking the role of Geralt, a legendary monster slayer and master swordfighter with supernatural abilities and reflexes. The Witcher presents a fresh approach to traditional role-playing, blending an expansive, twisting plotline – in which the impact of individual decisions can drastically alter the outcome of the game – and fast-paced combat against a wide variety of foes.
“The talented and passionate development team at CD Projekt has invested an enormous amount of time and love into The Witcher, resulting in a tremendous game that blends stunning graphics and engaging combat with an extraordinary traditional role-playing experience,” said Cyril Voiron, Marketing Director, Atari Europe. “We are excited to reinforce our commitment to delivering the best role-playing games in the world by bringing this highly impressive title to gamers in Europe and Asia and we’re working towards The Witcher becoming the RPG of 2007.”
“We are delighted to begin a long and mutually beneficial relationship with Atari, a publishing partner that shares our commitment to delivering a top-quality role-playing game,” said Michal Kicinski, Joint CEO of CD Projekt. “We are very much looking forward to working with Atari to bring this distinctive fantasy world that we love to a broad audience.”
Codemasters announce next-gen multiplatform game!
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Thursday, August 31 2006 @ 16:33 CET]
Codemasters today announces a publishing agreement with Spark Unlimited, the U.S. studio responsible for Call of Duty: Finest Hour, for ‘Fall of Liberty’ (working title) an intense and cinematic next-gen first-person shooter epic set in an unnerving World War II alternate reality.
Codemasters will publish Fall of Liberty as a major Q4 2007 title for the PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system, the Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and PC.
Fall of Liberty will take players to new battlegrounds in World War II – ones born from a changed moment in history that led to the Nazi invasion of 1950s America. Presenting this scenario as a powerful and realistically crafted alternate history, Fall of Liberty will deliver an explosive action experience in a world where famous real-world locations appear startlingly different under Nazi occupation.
Fall of Liberty changes reality by twisting one historical fact: In 1931, Winston Churchill was hit by a taxi on 5th Avenue in New York. In reality, he survived the accident but walked with a cane for the rest of his life. But what might have followed if Winston Churchill had been killed in the accident? Without his voice to lead a country to war, the events of WWII change dramatically; the Normandy invasion never happens and the UK and all of Europe come under Nazi rule by 1945.
Building on the successful conquest of Europe, Nazi intelligence develops superior weapons and vehicles so that on December 7, 1951 they are able to launch an all out surprise attack on America – beginning with a mass invasion of New York.
Unprepared, the invasion stuns America and plunges much of the country into fearsome Nazi occupation. In Washington, the Swastika flies from The White House, and in a show of force to end rebellion, a nuclear attack on Manhattan is being planned. The odds are overwhelming, the reality of the situation shocking, but for players, it’s time to join the resistance and fight a guerrilla war in the newly occupied territories.
Comments James Sheahan, Codemasters’ Director of Brand:
“The team at Spark has a tremendous track record for successfully adapting history into authentic and compelling gaming experiences. Fall of Liberty will allow them to extend that knowledge base and create a world that thankfully never existed. This key concept brings originality to a genre where real-world WWII events have been covered and played through to exhaustion in other titles.”
Fall of Liberty is now in development at Spark Unlimited’s studios based in Sherman Oaks, California. The game will launch in Q4 2007 for the PlayStation 3, Xbox 360 and PC.
Battlestations: Midway slips further away on 360 and PC
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Eidos Interactive, one of the world’s leading publishers and developers of entertainment software, today confirms that Battlestations: Midway will be released on Xbox 360™ and PC in 2007.
Taking advantage of Microsoft’s next-generation video game and entertainment system, Battlestations: Midway on Xbox 360 delivers a genuinely new and exciting single and multiplayer gameplay experience.
Battlestations: Midway follows the story of naval recruit Henry Walker, whose first assignment as a gunner at Pearl Harbor is the starting point of an incredible career at the heart of the US Pacific Fleet in 1942, in what was to become one of the most inspirational military campaigns in history.
For the first time, relive the intensity of massive air, sea and underwater WWII battles in a unique mix of intense action and tactical gameplay. Directly control dozens of highly detailed warships, aircraft and submarines in a ‘free-control’ environment as you design and execute the best plans of attack. Command the colossal firepower of a fully armed battleship, engage the enemy in fierce dogfights through flak-infested skies or utilise the stealth of your submarine to unleash deadly torpedo attacks on unsuspecting enemies.
“Battlestations: Midway offers players a refreshingly new and exciting gaming experience, whilst maintaining an incredible level of detail which recreates the intensity and atmosphere of the Pacific War. The ability to jump from a raging dogfight to the deck of a destroyer, with the crew frantically running about around you on deck, to the silence of a prowling submarine provides a unique and at times breathtaking experience. And, of course, watching your mate’s aircraft carrier sink past your sub after a sneaky online torpedo attack is extremely satisfying!” said Brand Manager, Matt Russell.
“On Xbox Live™, gamers will be able to take part in gripping cooperative games and the high-definition mode really brings to life the glorious scale of Midway battles,” said Klaude Thomas, Producer. “The power of Xbox 360 allows us a greater level of detail – self-shadowed, bump-mapped and textured in high resolution, which you simply couldn’t do before now”
Developed by Eidos Studios, Hungary, Battlestations: Midway will be available in 2007.
TOCA Race Driver 3 Challenge turns into PSP exclusive
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Prepare for an all-new tarmac-tearing TOCA experience as Codemasters announces TOCA Race Driver 3 Challenge, an original title in the thrilling motorsport series, coming this winter for the PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system.
Set to launch exclusively in PAL territories, TOCA Race Driver 3 Challenge is being designed from the ground up for PSP gaming with an emphasis on burst play and will deliver all the motorsport excitement the series is renowned for.
TOCA Race Driver 3 Challenge will roar in with a cavalcade of officially licensed racecars, world-famous tracks and a new, progressive central game mode – the World Challenge. As the piston-pumping heart of the game, the World Challenge will see players competing through a series of international championship tiers, each packed with skill tests, specialised events and championships that span different racing styles.
Each World Challenge tier is designed to enhance and expand your race driving skills and experience. First, a series of tests and events will build your racing prowess in areas such as damage control, using the racing line, manoeuvring, timely pit stops and braking accuracy. Now you’re ready for the main event: the tier’s specialist Championship season with a series of closely-fought multiple car races on different circuits. Come first overall in the championship and you’ll move up to compete in the next tier of the World Challenge.
Throughout TOCA Race Driver 3 Challenge, you’ll be racing the world as each tier has its own international location and theme: from the British GP, to the heavyweight touring cars of Australia’s V8 Supercars and Germany’s DTM events, through to American Race series across the USA and then to a global Masters championship tier where you’ll compete against the best of the best.
Of course, with all this competitive racing, TOCA Race Driver 3 Challenge features spectacular collisions thanks to its realistic damage system; sparks fly when you bottom out, smoke billows from tyres, doors flap, windscreens shatter, wings get ripped off, spoilers break and fly from the car and bodywork realistically deforms with every impact.
In addition to the World Challenge, TOCA Race Driver 3 Challenge will come loaded with additional play modes including Free Race and Time Trial. There’s also wireless WLAN multiplayer action play for up to a staggering 12 players simultaneously and further multiplayer action via Game Share, enabling up to four players to enjoy fantastic WLAN racing from just one UMD.
Set to be the handheld’s most thrilling, multi-event, motorsport title, TOCA Race Driver 3 Challenge will get PSP players’ engines roaring this winter.
Classic Coin-up Time Pilot goes Live on Marketplace
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Wednesday, August 30 2006 @ 16:27 CET]
“Time Pilot,” the futuristic jet fighter from Konami launches on Xbox Live Arcade today, Wednesday 30th August. The arcade classic makes its next-gen debut, bringing the aerial shoot-em-up to a new level, with enhanced graphics and gameplay.
GAME FOCUS:
With “Time Pilot,” Xbox Live Arcade gamers can step back in time and fix the future for the safety of all mankind. Gamers will pilot a futuristic fighter jet with the capability to travel through time to destroy wave after wave of enemies; starting in 1910 and gunning down biplanes and UFOs through to the 21st century. Online multiplayer, high-definition graphics and achievements make this shooter hit Mach-3 like only an Xbox Live Arcade game can.
GAME FEATURES:
“Time Pilot” for Xbox Live Arcade includes enhanced artwork, new Xbox Live split screen multiplayer modes and bonus items such as parachutes and enemy boss planes.
‘Time Pilot’ includes:
Online multiplayer via Xbox Live
Co-op and Versus play online
High definition graphics
Leaderboards
Achievements
WHEN CAN I GET IT: Download ‘Time Pilot’, today, Wednesday, 30th August on Xbox Live Arcade.
‘Time Pilot’ (Konami): 400 Microsoft Points
Updated NBA 2K6 review online for X-Box 360
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After the announcement that the "NHL 2K6" review is online, we've also put the "NBA 2K6" review, made by Ian online as well.
You can read the full review on this link here.
Updated NHL 2K6 review for X-Box 360 ONLINE
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Our reviewer Ian has made another review, taking a closer and updated 'look' on 2K Sports latest hockey game, "NHL 2K6", for the X-Box 360.
According to the score, Ian didn't like it so the only thing to find out why is to read his review of "NHL 2K6" right here.
Codemasters announce Cannon Fodder for the PSP
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Putting a grenade in your hands and a smile on your face, Codemasters today confirms plans for the return of Cannon Fodder, the classic and hilarious combat gaming franchise, in spring 2007.
The all-new Cannon Fodder is now in development and will be wreaking its unique war-torn havoc on the PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system. The title will update the gameplay of the beloved 16-bit originals, combining fast- paced strategic action with the series’ devilish sense of humour that earned it the tagline: war has never been so much fun.
For those who haven’t been through Cannon Fodder’s unique military training, players command their troop of soldiers, individually or as a group, in a diverse range of on-foot and vehicle based combat missions. Blowing stuff up and generally causing untold amounts of military mayhem is the order of the day.
The fast paced action will be presented in a unique and distinctive visual style that’s unmistakably Cannon Fodder. Far from being just a pretty tribute, this new version builds on the classic tactical combat gameplay and introduces a raft of new features, such as the ability to call in air strikes, perform radar sweeps as well as unleashing a host of new weaponry including flamethrowers and sniper rifles.
As the conflict unfolds, the action is reported live from the warzone by the new FTV channel, giving you a better look at the game’s pintsized protagonists. The wireless capability of the host consoles gives rise to another exciting innovation: four-player link play in deathmatch as well as co-op scenarios.
Prepare for to be dropped behind the most entertaining enemy lines with Cannon Fodder coming in 2007 for the PSP system.
EA announce Burnout 5 for Xbox 360 and PS3 !
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Electronic Arts today announced that Burnout 5 is in development for the PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system and Xbox 360™ video game system from Microsoft®.
Burnout 5 gives players license to wreak havoc in Paradise City, the ultimate seamless racing battleground, with a massive infrastructure of traffic-heavy roads to abuse. Gone is the need to jump in and out of menus and aimlessly search for fun like many open world games; in Burnout 5, every inch of the world is built to deliver heart-stopping Burnout-style gameplay. Every intersection is a potential crash junction and every alleyway is an opportunity to rack up moving violations.
Of course, rules are made to be broken, and when gamers enter Paradise City, they’re assigned a Drivers License that quickly begins to amass a record of player’s most aggressive, reckless and destructive exploits behind the wheel. But it’s not the law that’s eyeing player’s progress … when gamers push things too hard they’ll be squaring off against the city’s most infamous burners, and these legends aren’t interested in who crosses the finish line first.
“Burnout 5 is a complete reinvention of the series, built from the ground up for the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360,” said Alex Ward, director of game design at Criterion Games. “To create truly next-generation gameplay, we needed to create a truly next-generation game, from top to bottom.”
Burnout 5 also delivers the next level of speed and destruction, with brand new next-generation technology allowing gamers to literally rip their cars in half, in the most explosive pile-ups in the series’ history.
Burnout 5 will ship in 2007 under the EA™ brand and was developed by Criterion Games in Guildford, UK.
Atari Announces Second Test Drive Unlimited Demo
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Atari today announced the forthcoming launch of a new Test Drive Unlimited playable demo for the Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, via Xbox Live® Marketplace. Developed by Eden Games, Test Drive Unlimited has already excited gamers with its massive array of single player challenges and diverse online multiplayer delights. The new demo will be released Thursday August 24th 2006 featuring stunning new vehicles, new challenges, longer play time and a host of other enhancements to give gamers a tantalising taste of racing reinvented. Test Drive Unlimited is scheduled for release across Europe September 8th 2006.
The first Test Drive Unlimited playable demo, released during E3 2006 as part of Microsoft’s initiative to bring gamers closer to the event, was downloaded close to 200,000 times from Xbox Live Marketplace in one short week, bringing the demo in third place overall amongst all downloads during the period. Feedback from the global gaming community proved vital in giving Eden Games a clear direction to improve the quality of the final game and deliver the incredible experience Test Drive Unlimited now offers.
With the new demo allowing up to one hour of play in a 60km² area of the graphically polished and geographically accurate Hawaiian island of Oahu, players will have time to discover a stunning new house, three delicious new super cars – the Ferrari F430, Ford Mustang GT and AC Cobra – and one brutally powerful motorbike, the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R. Players can choose to accept one of the four new offline challenges, take on either of the two new online challenges with up to eight players racing simultaneously, launch instant challenges against anyone they encounter on the road, or just burn gallons of virtual gasoline tearing around the lush tropical roads in free ride. Other enhancements include tighter handling, snappy gear changes, customizable speed blur effects, optional in-car camera vibrations, improved lag allowing eight player online races, fully operational vsync, an incredible level of overall graphical polish, and much more.
Official title for Mobile Suit Gundam: Crossfire PS3
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NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc. today revealed the official title for Mobile Suit Gundam: Crossfire, slated for release later this year on the PlayStation3 computer entertainment system.
Thrown into the futuristic Earth devastated by the invasion of the Zeon forces, players will find themselves caught in the crossfire between the Earth Federation and Zeon forces nine months into the conflict. At the brink of annihilation, the Earth Federation Forces are mobilizing to launch a massive counter assault against the occupying forces. Call for arms have been made. Players will be given a choice to either join the Federation Army to repel the invaders from the Earth or pledge their alliance to Zeon to claim the Earth! By piloting the ultimate mechanized weapons of the future taken straight from the Gundam Universe (Mobile Suits) players can suit up and command fellow battalion Mobile Suits in the fight to change the tides of the war.
Inciting the memories of bitter rivalries between the Federation and Zeon forces from the popular franchise, Mobile Suit Gundam: Crossfire places pilots into the cockpits of numerous legendary Mobile Suits and launches them right into the heat of battle. Teamwork and brilliant leadership are crucial in ascertaining enemy weaknesses and locating strategic enemy facilities on the battlefield. New commanders have access to a variety of Mobile Suits available for enlistment into their battalion and more suits will open up as players progress further in the game and complete objectives in the war effort.
On The Move With Ford Street Racing: LA Duel
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With over 2 million units sold, the Ford gaming brand has become synonymous with style and performance. This benchmark for excellence is set to continue when Xplosiv release Ford Street Racing: LA Duel onto the slick and stylish Playstation® Portable (PSP).
The PSP has become the fastest selling console in history having shipped 15 million units globally, making it the perfect companion for the global Ford brand.
Accelerating out of the living room Ford Street Racing: LA Duel will let you experience the power of Ford on the move, you can now play wherever and whenever you want. With new and exclusive features including more cars, more tracks, new game modes, wi-fi multiplayer and more
Ford Street Racing: LA Duel brings the streets of Los Angeles to life in rich detail featuring six new tracks exclusive to the PSP. These tracks include the Los Angeles River (Downtown), Downtown Railroad, Pacific Parkway (Santa Monica), Venice Riviera (Venice Beach), Hollywood and Sunset Heights (Sunset Boulevard).
“Ford Street Racing: LA Duel on PSP is where it belongs, on the move and on the streets. With Wi-Fi multiplayer and even more performance Ford cars to choose from, this is the ultimate Ford Street Racing experience,” commented James Spice, General Manager of Xplosiv.
Ubisoft Announces Next Silent Hunter Submarine
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Today Ubisoft, one of the world’s largest video game publishers, announced a new chapter in the award-winning Silent Hunter® submarine simulation franchise Silent Hunter 4: Wolves of the Pacific™. Silent Hunter 4: Wolves of the Pacific will be available for PC in the spring of 2007.
"The Silent Hunter series is a legendary franchise that unquestionably set the standard for submarine simulations," said Tony Key, Vice President of Marketing at Ubisoft. "Silent Hunter 4: Wolves of the Pacific continues that tradition with its amazing graphics, authenticity and immersive gameplay."
Developed by Ubisoft’s studio in Romania, Silent Hunter 4: Wolves of the Pacific takes players to the depths of the Pacific Ocean as the skipper of an American submarine. Immersed in this intense environment with the help of amazing graphics and sound, players will engage in massive battles with enemy units, manage and evolve an entire submarine crew, and earn promotions and commendations to ensure victory in the Pacific.
LucasArts joins forces with Free Radical Design
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LucasArts today announced an agreement with Free Radical Design to develop a new video game for next-generation console platforms. Product and release details will be unveiled at a later date.
"Free Radical has always been about titles with great gameplay and innovative design," said Peter Hirschmann, Vice President of Product Development at LucasArts. "In the battle for videogame quality, these guys are at the front of the line. This team's pedigree is one of the best in the business."
"In recent years, LucasArts has established itself as one of the hottest publishers on the planet," said Steve Ellis, Director at Free Radical, "We're honored that they're every bit as interested to be working with us as we are to be working with them."
About Free Radical Design
Founded in 1999, Free Radical Design is one of the UK's leading independent videogame developers, responsible for three of the eight best-scoring First Person Shooters on Playstation 2. It recently achieved its first listing in the Sunday Times Microsoft Tech Track 100, being one of the UK's fastest growing technology companies. Free Radical Design is now wholly focused on next-generation development.
Release date for ANNO 1701 set
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Leading Empire-building experts Sunflowers today announced the release date for ANNO 1701. With more than 4.4 million copies sold worldwide, the ANNO series is one of the most successful games franchises of all time. The third in the critically acclaimed series, ANNO 1701, will be launched for PC at the end of October 2006, exclusively distributed throughout the UK by Koch Media under it’s premium Deep Silver label.
With a thriving community still playing both previous titles in the best-selling series, and still readily available at retail, the ANNO series has remained at the forefront of strategic evolution. This next instalment boasts extensive community input, forged from player-research on a scale never before seen in an empire building simulation. In multiplayer mode, up to four players can colonise the island world simultaneously. Every aspect of the game has been analysed and improved by those who play it the most, making it more involving and more accessible than ever before.
A new, intuitive interface allows players to manipulate the environment and their units with ease. A dynamic, detailed graphical engine removes the need for much of the statistical representation common to building games and provides players with instant feedback on the effects of their choices; and it’s in this regard that the ANNO series really excels. With more units and buildings than any of its predecessors, ANNO 1701 offers players an unrivalled opportunity to build their civilisation in the manner they see fit.
For all its innovations, however, ANNO 1701 remains faithful to its roots, following the same gameplay principles and creating the same unique and engaging ANNO experience that made its predecessors so successful.
PSP review of LocoRoco online!
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We bring you another new review here on PlayDevil.com and this time we take a closer look on one of Sony's probably best PSP game of the year, named "LocoRoco".
You can read the full review right here.
More info on upcoming Jane Jensen adventure
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Today’s ANACONDA press conference in Leipzig saw renowned adventure game author Jane Jensen present her new project, provisionally titled “Gray Matter”, to more than 60 journalists from around the world.
The game’s story mixes eerie mysteries with supernatural events in best Jensen-style. Neurobiologist Dr. David Styles is one of the game’s central characters: since losing his wife in a horrible accident some several years ago, he has become a recluse, seldom leaving Dread Hill House, his English country estate.
When student and part-time street performer Samantha Everett shows up at his doorstep, she unexpectedly becomes his assistant. Hailing from America, she has been travelling through most of Europe the last couple years, making do by performing magic tricks on street corners, so this comes as a nice change of pace for her. But is the meeting of Sam and Styles really as coincidental as it seems?
Her first task: finding six test subjects at Oxford University for one of Styles’ experiments. The experiment starts off innocently enough: the subjects are tasked with imagining different forms of physical exercise. But then inexplicable incidents start mounting - and Styles receives visitations by his dear departed wife. Now it’s up to Sam to solve the mysteries of Dread Hill House.
In Gray Matter, players control both Dr. David Styles as well as Samantha Everett in their bid to uncover the secrets and find out the truth. While Dr. Styles research leads him into an investigation into the intricacies of the human mind, the player will have to tackle stage magic as Sam to solve puzzles. Gray Matter tackles questions concerning the nature of reality and the power of the mind in constructing the world we take for granted.
ANACONDA will publish Gray Matter worldwide in the 4th quarter of 2007. The game is in development at Tonuzaba Entertainment in Hungary.
Nintendo DS gets new colors
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Monday, August 28 2006 @ 9:41 CET]
On Sept. 13, two new colors – Onyx and Coral Pink – join Polar White, which is enjoying its own incredible sales peak and getting noticed everywhere.
The new colors also complement numerous DS games, including New Super Mario Bros.®, which has hit the 1 million unit sales mark after just 12 weeks on sale in the United States. That's an average of roughly eight games sold each minute continuously since launch, making it the fastest-selling DS title in the United States for a 12-week period. Overall, DS system and game sales are both up more than 300 percent in July alone.
"Not only are the DS Lite screen and battery life incredible," says George Harrison, Nintendo of America's senior vice president of marketing and corporate communications. "but the new colors just add another element of fun, allowing people to ‘personalize' who they are by the color, or colors they pick."
Just Cause PC & Xbox 360 demo available
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Monday, August 28 2006 @ 9:40 CET]
A quick word that the demo of Eidos upcoming action & adventure game "Just Cause" is now available for download.
The PC demo can be downloaded right here.
For Xbox 360 gamers they can get the demo straight off Live Marketplace.
Second C&C 3: Tiberium Wars feature online!
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Monday, August 28 2006 @ 7:22 CET]
We have posted our second feature with executive producer Mike Verdu regarding their upcoming RTS game, "Command & Conquer 3: Tiberium Wars" online.
Mike gives us this time more information regarding "The Brotherhood of Nod".
You can read the second full feature right here.
Blazing Angels Squadrons of WWII for PS3
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Today Ubisoft, one of the world's largest video game publishers, announced it will bring Blazing Angels Squadrons of WWII, the intense squadron-based flight action game, to the PlayStation3 computer entertainment system.
Blazing Angels Squadrons of WWII will be available for the new system's launch.
In Blazing Angels Squadrons of WWII, developed in Ubisoft's Romanian studio, players will experience the most gripping and famous battles of WWII through the eyes of a squadron commander and ace fighter pilot. From the Battle of Britain, through the dramatic air combat of Pearl Harbor, the fierce fighting of Midway, and on to the European continent in the battle of Berlin, players can hone their pilot skills while creating WWII history. Dominate the skies of Western Europe and the Pacific and bring your squadron of Blazing Angels back alive.
Blazing Angels Squadrons of WWII will take advantage of the PlayStation3 system's unique and powerful capabilities, including innovative use of the PlayStation3 controller. New missions will be introduced and the game will feature a heart-pounding 16-player multiplayer mode.
PlayDevil welcome new members !
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Thursday, August 17 2006 @ 10:55 CET]
Aren't we delighted that we can welcome two new members to PlayDevil.com? We sure are!
They are currently writing their very first review for the site and it should pop up real soon.
Our first new member is Jacques from The Netherlands and he's a real Xbox 360 addict. Plays a lot of different games and right now he's hooked on "Prey". Expect a review of Prey from Jacques real soon.
Our second new member is Ian and he's from the UK. Like Jacques, Ian plays several games and believe it or not he's pretty good at it!
He's also working on his very first review for PlayDevil.com, so expect it soon as well.
Other people are right now in a test phase, working out a sort of test review so we'll see wether this works out or not.
Anyway, good for the team and our visitors is that you can expect more content real soon!
In the meantime, enjoy the news and all of our other articles.
Poll Closed - Results
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In our latest poll, "What do you think of the PS3 price", many of you voted that it's too high priced.
Well we agree here as well. The Xbox 360 was already a lot of money (399 euros) and the PS3 will probably cost around 599 euros.
Also it seems that only the 60gb PS3 model will come out here in Europe while Americans will have the possibility to buy lower version too.
We believe that Import shops will do good business.
Anyway 66.6% of you voted that the PS3 is way too expensive and 7% voted that it's just enough.
14% will go for the Xbox 360 instead of buying a PS3 and only 5.2% will stick with Nintendo's Wii.
It seems that most of you believe that the PS3 is overpriced and believe us, you're absolutely right!
Lets hope that Sony will cut down the price a bit very shortly but like their previous systems, this won't happen real soon.
Expect a new poll real soon about the "next-gen war".
Demo of Caesar IV available
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We just received a note that Sierra has made the demo of the RTS game "Caesar IV" available for download.
Demo weighs around 446 MB and can be downloaded right here.
Dark Star One patch available
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Thursday, August 17 2006 @ 10:26 CET]
We posted it a few days ago regarding the announcement of an upcoming (quickly) patch for the recently released PC game, "Dark Star One".
Well, fellow gamers today the patch has been released and can be downloaded from following url:
http://download.ascaron.com/darkstarone/patches/Darkstar1_2_ENG.exe
Maelstrom demo available for download!
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On a ravaged future Earth, one crawling with morphing military tech and organic alien weapons, experience explosive action strategy gaming with the pre-beta playable demo of Maelstrom, now available from http://www.codemasters.com/maelstrom (in Downloads).
Coming this October exclusively for PC, Maelstrom is the fiercely original result of a development collaboration between Codemasters and acclaimed Russian game studio KDV Games (Perimeter) and delivers innovative RTS gameplay featuring transforming tech, terraforming, and totally destructible environments.
The demo enables gamers to jump right into Maelstrom’s action-packed missions and enter the battle for control of the planet. Those vying for supremacy are the fearless Hai-Genti alien force, the Ascension and its army of high-tech super soldiers and the human guerrilla fighting Remnants. Set against the violent ecological meltdown of the planet, the demo presents two multiple-objective single-player missions:
Mission One: Games Of Empire
In the first mission from the Ascension Campaign players take command of the technologically superior Ascension forces, their transforming weaponry and cloning super-soldiers. The primary objective is to locate and destroy the four outposts occupied by the Survivors, the last drifters of humanity. The mission’s secondary objective sees players plotting the elimination of the rebel Remnant forces in the area.
Mission Two: Evolve or Die
The second demo mission, taken from the Alien Campaign, has players commanding the invading Hai-Genti. Here, pitched against the Remnants, players must penetrate the defences of a Remnant base, capture it and harvest bio-matter to evolve their army. The human forces must be held off until the bio-creature, the Devourer, is bred and turns the tables on the attackers.
A further playable demo, taken from final code and featuring multiplayer missions, will be available when Maelstrom goes gold in September.
Review of MotoGP 06 for Xbox 360 Online
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Finally. The new next-gen motorcycle game has been tested to ...
After missing the previous game (since it didn't got released) we were very happy when THQ announce that MotoGP 06 would come out on the Xbox 360.
A HD motorcycle game with very realistic controls and a whole bunch of online modes. It couldn't get any better right?
Find out the truth in our in-depth review of MotoGP 06.
Bomberman Land Touch! joins the DS
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Atlus U.S.A., Inc., a leading publisher of interactive entertainment, today announced the acquisition of the North American publishing rights to Bomberman Land Touch!, an action-adventure game for the Nintendo DS. The game is also a new milestone in the growing partnership between Atlus USA and Hudson Soft Co., Ltd., the developers of Bomberman Land Touch!
“We’re thrilled to again join forces with Hudson Soft Co., Ltd. and to strengthen our relationship with such a great game from the storied franchise,” said Sonoko Saito, Vice President of Production & Business Development for Atlus USA. “We published a pair of Bomberman titles in the recent past, so we’re intimately familiar with the series, and with the excitement that surrounds each new Bomberman release, Bomberman Land Touch! is just the beginning.”
Bomberman Land Touch! is scheduled for release in early November 2006, and has not yet been rated by the ESRB; an E or E10+ rating is expected.
About Bomberman Land Touch!
Bomberman Land Touch! is a family-friendly action-adventure packed with explosive excitement! In the Story Mode, explore Bomber Island while solving unique puzzles, chatting with rival characters, and engaging in 36 different one-to-four-player “attractions” with action, racing, sports, and other themes. In Attraction Mode, enjoy any of the attractions you’ve unlocked in the Story Mode. In the Battle Mode, play classic multiplayer Bomberman with two to eight players via Wireless Single-Card or Multi-Card Play, or two to four players via Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection.
Major voice cast for Star Trek: Legacy
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Bethesda Softworks announced today that all five actors who portrayed the STAR TREK series captains - William Shatner, Patrick Stewart, Scott Bakula, Avery Brooks, and Kate Mulgrew - will provide voiceovers in the STAR TREK: Legacy video game. The collaboration marks the first time the five actors have participated in a single STAR TREK project together.
“I am delighted to have the chance to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Star Trek with my fellow captains by providing our voices to STAR TREK: Legacy,” said Shatner. “Bethesda Softworks has done an excellent job in creating an exciting game that stays true to Star Trek’s roots and accurately incorporates elements from each series.”
STAR TREK: Legacy is in development for both the Xbox 360™ videogame and entertainment system from Microsoft and Windows PC. STAR TREK: Legacy is scheduled to launch this fall under license from CBS Consumer Products. The STAR TREK franchise, which debuted with the Original Series in 1966, will celebrate its 40th anniversary this fall.
“We are absolutely thrilled to have the five actors who portrayed the STAR TREK captains take part in this project,” said Todd Vaughn, vice president of development, Bethesda Softworks. “Their participation, especially since it takes place during the series’ 40th anniversary, will add to the fun and excitement of the game and emphasizes our commitment to provide fans with the most authentic STAR TREK experience possible.”
The five actors will reprise their roles from their respective series as follows:
• William Shatner as Captain James T. Kirk from the STAR TREK: The Original Series – 1966-1969
• Patrick Stewart as Captain Jean-Luc Picard from STAR TREK: The Next Generation® – 1987-1994
• Avery Brooks as Captain Benjamin Lafayette Sisko from STAR TREK: Deep Space Nine® –1993-1999
• Kate Mulgrew as Captain Kathryn Janeway from STAR TREK: Voyager® – 1995-2001
• Scott Bakula as Captain Jonathan Archer in STAR TREK: Enterprise™ – 2001-2005
STAR TREK: Legacy places you in the role of the Admiral of a task force of warships, which you control in small and large-scale battles. Test your strategic and tactical skills in real-time combat featuring over 60 authentic spaceships, full damage modeling, and spectacular visual effects. Play through the single-player campaign or in the extensive multiplayer mode with a group of friends online.
The compelling storyline in Legacy spans the entire STAR TREK Universe, including the Original Series, STAR TREK: The Next Generation®, STAR TREK: Deep Space Nine®, STAR TREK: Voyager®, and STAR TREK: Enterprise™ eras.
Shaq Returns As Cover Athlete For NBA 2K7
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2K Sports proudly announced today the return of Miami Heat center and 2006 NBA World Champion, Shaquille O'Neal as cover athlete and official spokesperson for NBA 2K7.
The next chapter of the #1 rated* NBA 2K series, NBA 2K7 elevates the standard for all sports games, offering fans the most comprehensive and exciting basketball experience to date. NBA 2K7 presents cutting-edge visual realism, while offering the most intense and exhilarating gameplay controls in any basketball game, thanks in part to new post play mechanics inspired by Shaquille O'Neal.
"Shaquille O'Neal remains one of the most dominant, exciting, and charismatic athletes in the world," stated Erik Whiteford, vice president of marketing for 2K Sports. "Shaq is well-known for his fun-loving nature, great work ethic, and incredible athletic skills. His dominating game and winning attitude make him the central figure on every team he is a part of, including 2K Sports. We're very pleased to be working with Shaq again with NBA 2K7."
Patch planned for Dark Star One
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DarkStar One has enjoyed a successful international launch over the weekend, with strong sales across many countries, including the UK and America.
However, alongside this success we are aware of a specific issue which gamers may experience when running DarkStar One. On certain systems there is an error which prevents the disc checking routine and the game working seamlessly together. The main symptom of this is a typical framerate of 10-20fps. While the bug affects only a very small percentage of systems, we acknowledge that this is not acceptable, and we offer our sincere apologies to customers experiencing this problem.
Fixing this problem for the community is now our highest priority.
We are currently working on and testing a Beta patch intended for public release on Tuesday 15th August.
Thank you to everyone who has sent us feedback, both by email and through the DarkStar One forums. We genuinely appreciate the patience, understanding and support shown by the community throughout the DarkStar One project.
With kind regards
Ascaron Entertainment
SEGA partners with Planet Moon Studios
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SEGA of America, Inc., SEGA Europe, Ltd., and San Francisco-based Planet Moon Studios today announced a partnership to create game content for the PSP based on a classic SEGA brand. The award-winning independent developer is critically acclaimed for original titles including Giants: Citizen Kabuto™ for PC and Armed & Dangerous™ for PC and the Xbox video game and entertainment system from Microsoft.
“SEGA’s vast library of properties allows for unlimited possibilities in revitalising fan-favourites on the PSP,” said Bob Stevenson, Co-Founder and CEO of Planet Moon Studios. “Our passion for SEGA’s classic brands combined with our extensive background in crafting original games will help us create a compelling new chapter in this fan-favourite franchise.”
“With an incredible archive of established franchises, SEGA is always seeking to establish strategic partnerships with top development talent to revitalise our vintage brands,” said Scott A. Steinberg, Vice President of Marketing, SEGA of America, Inc. “Planet Moon’s reputation of creating critically acclaimed games makes them the perfect choice to inject originality and ingenuity to our classic IPs.”
This partnership demonstrates SEGA’s strategy to reinvigorate its popular classic franchises by developing brand new content and gameplay on current and next-gen platforms. Previously, SEGA announced a partnership with Totally Games on an upcoming SEGA franchise that has not yet been announced, as well as the 2007 release of Golden Axe™ developed by SEGA-owned development studio, Secret Level™.
Actionloop launches soon on Nintendo DS
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Get that stylus at the ready as the fast paced action puzzle game, Actionloop, hits the Nintendo DS. A gaming brain may not be needed but skill, strategy, timing and quick reactions will be as players try to clear multi-coloured gemstones from the looping tracks. Actionloop launches on the Nintendo DS across Europe from 27th October 2006.
Actionloop, the latest in Nintendo’s Touch! Generations series, is a fun and addictive game for everyone, regardless of age or gaming ability. Making full use of the Nintendo DS touch screen, players are challenged to clear multi-coloured gemstones as they roll along looping tracks. By flicking the gemstones with the stylus, players must create a combination of a minimum of three gemstones in the same colour, which will then cause the stones to clear.
Timing and placement of the flick are essential as the gemstones are in constant motion and must be cleared before they reach the end of the track. To stay in the game, players must keep eliminating gemstones in the most effective manner possible. For example, causing a chain elimination will clear multiple coloured gemstones in one go.
Actionloop is simple yet addictive. There is a game for everyone with four exciting modes to test players’ strategy skills. Single player Challenge Mode requires players to clear as many gemstones as possible before they reach the end of the track. The more stones cleared, the higher the level reached and the faster the stones roll. Each time players advance through ten levels, a pusher rocket appears. Hitting this with a gemstone clears all the stones in front of it, providing vital space on the track.
Actionloop, which is bundled with the Nintendo DS Rumble, launches across Europe on 27 October 2006 for the estimated retail price of around £30.
ProStroke Golf: World Tour 2007 Goes Gold
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Oxygen Interactive today announced that ProStroke Golf: World Tour 2007 has gone gold. The faithful video game adaptation of the world’s most challenging sport for PS2, Xbox, PC and PSP boasts a unique control system, competition from renowned golfing talent and commentary from the international voices of golf. ProStroke Golf is set to hit retail shelves August 18th - debuting for a suggested retail of £34.99.
With its unique control method, “ProStroke” - the most innovative golf swing system ever to be implemented in a golf video game - players are allowed for the first time ever to set up and take shots exactly as they would do in real life.
Gone is the 3 click system for taking shots as well as the single analogue swing with after-touch. In ProStroke, you can change weight distribution for different trajectories, and open and close your stance and club face for fades or draws - just like in real golf.
RPG Two Worlds gets more developer time
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Topware Interactive will invest additional development time into the role playing game “Two Worlds”. The delay into the 4th quarter of this year will makes sure that the title will release in its’ full splendour.
Miroslaw Dymek, Technical Director of the Reality Pump development team: “’Two Worlds” is a milestone in our company’s history. We want to be sure that every gamer will have as much fun playing our game as we are having during its’ development. Therefore, the focus of our team will be to create a quality RPG game and not in making the previously mentioned September time frame.”
Managing Director James Seaman: “We wanted to be on the safe side and did not want to compromise the ground breaking potential of this great game. The last few weeks of development have opened up many new options regarding graphics and game play and we want to realize these in a time frame that is stress free”
Wii titles from Ubisoft coming this October?
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Friday, August 11 2006 @ 9:06 CET]
It seems that numerous Wii titles like Red Steel, Far Cry and GT Pro Series will be released in the month October by Ubisoft.
While nothing has been made official we had a look at Ubisoft's latest release shedule and we noticed that these titles are sheduled for an October release.
Rayman Raving Rabbids is sheduled for November.
We can also confirm that Wii games won't be cheaper as Xbox360 or PS3 prices. Everybody hopes that these games will be cheaper but the above titles are still priced, according to the release shedule at 59.99 Euro.
Bummer!
Mad Tracks delayed to include Live multiplayer
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A lot of Xbox 360 enthusiasts consider “Mad Tracks” to be the most wonderful Xbox 360 Live Arcade title ever if only it would support Xbox Live multiplayer. A lot of them have asked repeatedly to implement this great mode – first of its kind on a gaming console. Well, their prayers have been answered by the Parisian developer.
Denis Bourdain, VP of Mad Tracks developer Load Inc, declared this week that they (Microsoft & Load Inc.) have listened to the gamers confirming what they wanted all along: to make this not only the best Xbox 360 Live Arcade party game for home multiplayer, but also for online Xbox Live multiplayer.
The reason for initially not including it was a combination of time and technical difficulties, with the PC version's LAN code having to be rewritten from the ground up to be able to run over Xbox Live, but the decision is final now that they will do exactly that despite the several months delay it will cause.
“We’re very excited to add this feature that undoubtedly makes a great difference with other next gen consoles. (…) We also hope to team up with a partner soon to help publish this title in a proper fashion. Leipzig is a perfect time to present ‘Mad Tracks XBLA’ to potential investors” added Denis Bourdain.
There is no word yet on an updated release date, but rest assured that the Load Inc. developers are hard at work right now to ensure all of us can have some Mad online multiplayer racing fun soon.
SEGA Announces Sega Genesis Collection
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SEGA of America, Inc. today announced that the SEGA Genesis Collection for the PlayStation2 computer entertainment system and the PSP will be available at retail this fall. SEGA Genesis Collection will be the most comprehensive gathering of classic SEGA products ever assembled; with over 30 titles in one compilation.
"SEGA has always been, and will continue to be, an innovator of gaming technologies," said Scott A. Steinberg, Vice President of Marketing, SEGA of America, Inc. "The Genesis was the first 16-bit gaming system released in 1989, setting a new standard for gaming hardware technology for years to come. SEGA Genesis Collection will take gamers back to experience the golden age of gaming during the 1990s."
Developed by Backbone Entertainment, SEGA Genesis Collection features over 30 titles including, Altered Beast™, Sonic The Hedgehog™, Shinobi III™, Phantasy Star™, and the original SEGA Genesis version of Golden Axe™. The games in the collection have been reproduced with the utmost accuracy to the originals as possible. SEGA Genesis Collection also features numerous unlockable items that delve into the soul of the Genesis including interviews with the original developers that created the games featured in the collection, a museum area with interesting facts about the games, a hint area to help gamers complete their favorite SEGA Genesis games, and SEGA arcade games from the Genesis era.
SEGA Genesis Collection for the PSP system marks the handheld debut of numerous titles in the collection. The PSP's wireless function will for the first time ever, allow Genesis fans to connect with friends for a wireless multiplayer gaming experience.
SEGA Genesis Collection will be available this Fall 2006.
For our European readers, this compilation will be named "Mega Drive Medley".
Chat with developer of War Front: Turning Point
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CDV Software Entertainment and Digital Reality will host a War Front: Turning Point developer chat.
The chat will take place in the War Front community forums at www.war-front.com. Fans will be able to chat directly with one of the game's lead programmers and with Senior Producer Elmar Grunenberg of CDV. This is a great opportunity for gamers to talk to the makers of the game that will challenge titles such as Command & Conquer 3: Tiberium Wars and Supreme Commander for domination of the RTS genre.
The chat will take place in the community forum itself at www.war-front.com. It will take the form of a standard forum discussion, allowing participants a more direct opportunity to have their questions answered.
Feature of Command & Conquer 3: Tiberium Wars ONLINE !
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We have put a very interesting feature online by Executive Producer Mike Verdu on the upcoming RTS game, "Command & Conquer 3: Tiberium Wars".
Mike gives us more information regarding the GDI forces.
The full feature can be read right here.
Atari will publish Bullet Witch
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Atari, one of the world's most recognized brands and leading third-party video game publisher, today announced a publishing agreement with Japanese AQ Interactive Inc. for the forthcoming neo-apocalyptic action game, Bullet WitchTM, for Xbox 360TM video game and entertainment system from Microsoft. Bullet WitchTM signifies the beginning of an on-going co-publishing relationship between Atari and AQ Interactive Inc.
Developed by Japan-based Cavia, Bullet WitchTM is set on a bleak planet earth in the year 2013 with human kind on the brink of extinction and hideous demons creating a tidal wave of destruction and havoc. All hope of mankind's survival rests with Alicia, a witch blessed with magical skills and a swift trigger finger.
"We are very pleased to announce this partnership with AQ Interactive Inc. and look forward to working with them on Bullet WitchTM and beyond," said Nique Fajors, Vice President, Sales and Marketing, Atari, Inc. "To offer an engaging and unique title such as Bullet WitchTM to kick start our partnership underlines Atari's commitment to bringing interesting and different titles to gamers all over the world."
"We are excited about starting our relationship with Atari with this project. We have great respect for Atari's expertise in publishing video games with their splendid brand name. Bullet WitchTM is the first original title developed by our group development studio, Cavia. It is our great pleasure to see this title as part of Atari's stunning product portfolio," said Naohiko Hoshino, Executive Vice President, AQ Interactive, Inc.
Set in a realistic world, Bullet WitchTM includes numerous features inspired by American horror and Japanese fantasy monsters. Combining shooting and magic, Bullet WitchTM will take advantage of Xbox 360's advanced physics engine by showcasing massive environmental damage, explosions and destruction. Through Xbox Live® online entertainment network, Atari, Inc. will provide fans with downloadable Bullet WitchTM content post-launch such as character costumes and extra levels.
New version of NBA Street is coming
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Electronic Arts announced today that the newest iteration of NBA STREET, the critically acclaimed and culturally defining streetball videogame franchise, is scheduled for release in spring 2007 under the EA SPORTS BIG™ brand. The game is in development in Vancouver, B.C. by EA Canada, the studio that also is home to the industry-leading NBA LIVE and NCAA® March Madness® basketball videogame franchises.
“Since its unveiling in 2001, NBA STREET has always raised the bar with innovative gameplay and fresh visuals,” said Wil Mozell, executive producer on the project. “The power of the Next Generation hardware gives us the horsepower to break new ground for consumers, making it the perfect stage for the next iteration of NBA STREET. Casual gamers and sports fans can still expect ‘easy to pick-up and difficult to master’ gameplay, with progressive visuals and some of the biggest gameplay moments in action sports.”
The fourth chapter in the multi-platinum selling NBA STREET series expands on the fast-paced and larger-than-life 3-on-3 basketball gameplay that has made the franchise a hit. The newest iteration of NBA STREET creates a hyper-real world that merges legendary courts with the hometown courts of your favorite NBA stars into one seamless city of streetball moments. Earn a name for yourself and garner respect as you progress along your hometown journey and become a legend.
The new version of NBA STREET will be available for the PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system and the Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system from Microsoft.
Pac-Man available @ X-Box 360 Live Arcade
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When going through the Marketplace of X-Box 360 today, we noticed that a new trail (and full ) game is available of the classic "Pac-Man" game.
So, if you're online with 360, check out the new X-Box Live Arcade and download this classic Pac-Man game.
It's really sweet!
Sierra Announces FREE F.E.A.R. Combat !
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Sierra Entertainment today announced that the multiplayer component from the award winning PC title F.E.A.R. (First Encounter Assault Recon), has been renamed F.E.A.R. Combat, and will be made available to the public as a free download on Thursday August 17th, 2006.
F.E.A.R. Combat is the complete multiplayer component of F.E.A.R. and includes all the updates, additional official maps and additional official game modes all in one downloadable file. F.E.A.R. Combat users will be able to play against the owners of the retail version of F.E.A.R. as well as the other F.E.A.R. Combat users.
F.E.A.R. Combat features:
10 Multiplayer game modes
19 Multiplayer maps
12 different weapons
Punkbuster support for anti cheat support
The capability to download user generated content
To play F.E.A.R. Combat, consumers simply go to www.joinfear.com and register to obtain their free, Combat keycode. When the file is made available for download on Aug 17th 2006, consumers can install, enter their keycode, and get ready to join F.E.A.R. Combat!
Mobile Suit Gundam coming to the PS3
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Leading video game publisher and developer NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc. announced today that "Mobile Suit Gundam," the latest and most advanced installment of the popular franchise, will be coming to the PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system in 2006. A sci-fi action game with stunning high-definition graphics, "Mobile Suit Gundam" promises gorgeous Mobile Suit battles and the opportunity to participate in thrilling epic battles taking place on the futuristic Earth.
“Made possible by the immense power of the PlayStation 3 system, 'Mobile Suit Gundam' will take gamers right into the futuristic war zones, brought to life by both CG quality high-definition graphics and ultra realistic destruction physics,” said Naruo Uchida, NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc.’s Vice President. “Along with stylized gameplay and stunning graphics, the opportunity to experience firsthand the epic mobile suit warfare will surely excite any sci-fi fan.”
Featuring a variety of Mobile Suits from the Gundam franchise, "Mobile Suit Gundam" sets players in the latter stages of The One Year War. Players will have the opportunity to be a commander of their own Mobile Suit battalion for either the Federation or Zeon Mobile Suit Assault Force. As players move through the ranks, they will be able to gain access to new Mobile Suits and engage in battles with more capable pilots at their command.
With a battalion at their disposal, players face a number of strategic options to choose from. In order to succeed, it will be vital for players to know about specific destructible parts on Mobile Suits, vulnerable enemy facilities and whether or not to engage enemies with either short or long range combat. Teamwork will also be a key component to the survival of every mission. If players are successful, their chosen allegiance could be the turning point for the war in "Mobile Suit Gundam."
European Nintendo DS Browser in October
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Since November last year Nintendo users have been enjoying simple, safe and free Nintendo Wi-Fi connection service* which to date already has approximately 1.7 million unique users. Now Nintendo is expanding its service offering to include an internet browser from Opera Software, optimised to run on the Nintendo DS. The Nintendo DS Browser launches across Europe on 6th October 2006.
The Nintendo DS Browser is a convenient web browser, which enables Nintendo DS users to surf the web, check and send emails, bank and shop online and even communicate with their friends in live chat. The Nintendo DS Browser features a built-in history function allowing users to bookmark their favourite sites and it has a fast start up time making it quick and easy to connect to the internet, at home or away. Nintendo DS owners can use the browser to connect to Wi-Fi environments at home, a public Wi-Fi hotspot or one of Nintendo’s free Wi-Fi hotspots.
By using the unique interface of the Nintendo DS, users can effortlessly surf the web as if they were using a keyboard and mouse. The stylus can be used to activate hyperlinks and click around pages. For typing in URLs and filling in complicated information users can employ an onscreen digital keyboard and the console’s handwriting recognition system.
Web sites can be viewed through the Nintendo DS Browser using two main modes. Overview Mode shows the complete web site on one screen and areas which are highlighted will enlarge on the other screen. It also features Opera’s Fit-to-Width Mode where web sites will be adjusted to fit inside the two Nintendo DS screens, eliminating the need for horizontal scrolling.
The Nintendo DS Browser will be available as a standard DS cartridge. To allow image or multimedia-heavy web sites to load quickly, it will come bundled with a Memory Expansion Pack, which boosts the system’s power. This pack fits snugly into the Game Boy Advance socket on the Nintendo DS and comes in two versions. One version is for the classic Nintendo DS and a smaller version is available to fit the slimmed down Nintendo DS Lite.
Parents who wish to have more control over the internet sites their children access can set passwords required to activate the browser. In addition, Nintendo has partnered with Astaro to provide the option of a parental control which acts as a proxy filter to block inappropriate content.
Connect to the limitless possibilities of the internet using your favourite hand-held games console. The Nintendo DS Browser launches across Europe on 6th October 2006 for the estimated retail price of around £30.
Pirates got caught in England
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A husband and wife have been ordered to pay back £600,000 under the Proceeds of Crime Act (2002) following a joint confiscation investigation by Sefton Metropolitan Borough Council and the North West Regional Asset Recovery team, after a conviction for counterfeiting offences in 2005.
Andrew King, 53, and Angela Susan Jones (formerly King’s wife, but now separated), 42, were ordered back to Liverpool Crown Court for a hearing on 2nd August, after having been previously imprisoned for 21 months and six months respectively for pirating offences brought to light by an ELSPA Anti-Piracy Unit investigator.
The court assessed that Mr King’s financial benefit from criminality was £198,256.52 and Jones’ calculated at £437,725.17. An order was made that they pay back this amount within six months or serve 30 months and three years imprisonment in default respectively. Should King and Jones fail to make payment before the expiration of this deadline, they must still pay back the outstanding balance after serving their sentences.
Michael Rawlinson, director general of ELSPA commented: "This case demonstrates the enormous penalties faced by those who sell illegally copied computer and video games. Any profit made through this kind of activity can be claimed back under POCA, and shows anyone tempted to become involved that piracy doesn't pay."
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
The couple were originally brought to justice after Sefton Metropolitan Borough Council Trading Standards officers, local Police and an ELSPA investigator searched the family home in Formby and uncovered a secret cupboard hidden in the wall, containing an array of counterfeit discs in 2004. The estimated value of the seized games alone sat at £28,000.
On 1st August the two offenders were sentenced at Liverpool Crown Court. Andrew King of Alexandra Road, Southport received 21 months imprisonment. His sentence comprised 18 months for Trade Mark offences and falsely claiming benefits, as well as three months for an earlier conviction on intellectual property theft for which he had been given a previous conditional discharge. His estranged wife, Angela Susan King of Dales Walk, Freshfield in Formby received six months for the same offences.
The North West Regional Asset Recovery Team then began a financial investigation into the couple.
LucasArts Announces Agreement with Day 1 Studios for next-gen franchise
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LucasArts today announced an agreement with Day 1 Studios to develop a new intellectual property for release on next-generation console platforms. Emphasizing ground-breaking gameplay, and focused on interactivity that is only possible with next-generation platforms, Day 1 Studios plans to leverage its proprietary technology to deliver a revolutionary gaming experience.
“LucasArts is determined to deliver outstanding new ideas to next-generation consoles, and our partnership with the great people at Day 1 Studios creates another opportunity for us to bring innovation and creativity to the market,” said Peter Hirschmann, Vice President of Product Development at LucasArts. “The phenomenal technology created by Day 1 directly affects gameplay in extremely innovative ways— and it perfectly complements the engaging story and intriguing characters you’d expect of a LucasArts title.”
“We wanted to work with a publisher who would set the bar sky-high,” said Denny Thorley, President of Day 1 Studios, “It’s a privilege to work with the creative minds behind some of the most successful franchises in entertainment history, and we are inspired by the opportunity to work with LucasArts on their first entirely new property specifically for next-generation consoles.”
LucasArts and Day 1 Studios will announce product details at a future date.
New Xbox 360 shots of Call Of Duty 3 ONLINE !!
[Category :] [Posted by Bjorn on Monday, August 7 2006 @ 16:25 CET]
Today we give you six new screenshots of Activision's upcoming Action-War game "Call of Duty 3".
These shots were taken from the Xbox 360 version at an Australian event that was held by Activision.
You can view them all right here.
Enjoy and we can't wait until more material is released !
Company of Heroes gets release date
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We have just received an e-mail from the Robin over @ THQ saying that their upcoming RTS game for the PC, "Company of Heroes" will be released on September 30.
More information can be read on the official site right here.
Medal of Honor: Heroes goes portable
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Electronic Arts today announced Medal of Honor Heroes for the PSP, allowing players to take all the epic, authentic World War II (WWII) action of Medal of Honor (MoH) on-the-go.
Medal of Honor Heroes will be available exclusively for the PSP system – with an entirely unique storyline and PSP-specific feature set. Players will experience a totally new single player campaign, and can choose from six different multiplayer modes within 15 different maps, while participating in wireless multiplayer sessions with up to 32 players. Gamers can play with up to 8 others across the room in a local impromptu game. “Quickplay” missions in skirmish game mode, allow players to jump right into the action or to create customized mission scenarios for added re-playability.
In Medal of Honor Heroes players will experience new MoH moments as they battle their way through three campaigns as their favorite lead characters from past Medal of Honor games. Take on the role of Lieutenant Jimmy Patterson – star of both the original Medal of Honor, and the classic Medal of Honor Frontline™ – in an untold chapter of his time in Holland as part of Operation Market Garden. Play as Sergeant John Baker, from Medal of Honor Allied Assault™ Breakthrough, and sabotage German defenses on the Italian coastline to help the invasion forces crack Hitler’s iron hold on Europe. Don the officer’s cap of Lieutenant William Holt from Medal of Honor European Assault™ – and return to the Ardennes Forest during the Battle of the Bulge to complete unfinished business for the OSS. Along the way, players will unlock over 20 classic characters to use in multiplayer games, adding both variety and personality to their online** experience.
“For the first time ever, the epic WWII battles synonymous with Medal of Honor can be played anytime and anywhere in the world on the PSP," explained Mike Quigley, Group Vice President of Marketing at EA. “The PSP-specific feature set, especially the 32-player wireless supported multiplayer, skirmish game mode, and unlockable characters are really what is going to give this Medal of Honor game an entirely new and exciting flavor.”
Street Fighter II' Hyper Fighting Becomes Fastest Selling Xbox Live Arcade Title
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Capcom today announced that Street Fighter II’ Hyper Fighting, the company’s first title for Xbox Live Arcade for the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, has seen a phenomenal record of downloads since it’s debut on August 2.
Within the first 24 hours of it’s unveiling, Street Fighter II’ Hyper Fighting has become the fastest selling Xbox Live Arcade title to date with hundreds of matches being played every hour. Street Fighter II’ Hyper Fighting’s overwhelming success can be attributed not only to its arcade roots but also its timeless gameplay. Thousands of users continue to flock online to purchase the game with the hopes of proving who truly is the world’s best street fighter. The ultimate retro gaming experience is now available worldwide for download on Xbox Live Arcade for 800 Microsoft Points.
“We are elated by the tremendous response Xbox Live users have given Street Fighter II’ Hyper Fighting as players around the world vie to be on top of the game’s numerous leaderboards,” said Charles Bellfield, vice president of marketing, Capcom Entertainment, Inc. “It'll be exciting to see who ranks number one on Xbox Live Arcade after the first weekend of gamers playing the greatest arcade title in history."
“The phenomenal response to Street Fighter II’ Hyper Fighting on Xbox Live Arcade comes as no surprise as this has been one of the most eagerly anticipated titles of the summer,” said Greg Canessa, Group Manager of Xbox Live Arcade, Microsoft. “We are thrilled that gamers everywhere are jumping into Xbox Live Arcade and enjoying the fantastic game play experiences this title and our platform has to offer.”
Street Fighter II’ Hyper Fighting not only delivers several offline modes and numerous leaderboards and achievements, it takes advantage of the new online features of Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and the console’s powerful processing capabilities to create a seamless online multiplayer experience. Among several online options is an exclusive mode called “Quarter Match”, which introduces a new way of reliving the exhilarating arcade experience at home.
Xbox 360 users can connect to the Xbox Live entertainment network and access Xbox Live Arcade to download a free, feature-limited version which offers two playable characters for one match. When they are ready to prove their skills, users can then unlock the full version of the game, enabling players to choose from all eight original characters as well as four boss characters, each with theirown special endings and home levels.
Star Trek: Legacy gets famed Star Trek Writer
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Bethesda Softworks announced today that acclaimed STAR TREK writer Dorothy “D.C.” Fontana, with her partner, Derek Chester, have collaborated to write the scripts for its upcoming titles, STAR TREK: Legacy and STAR TREK : Tactical Assault.
Fontana, a prominent creative force behind the STAR TREK franchise since its inception in the 1960s, continues to contribute to its broad-based appeal with vibrant and innovative story lines.
STAR TREK: Legacy is in development for both the Xbox 360 videogame and entertainment system from Microsoft and Windows, while STAR TREK: Tactical Assault is being developed for Nintendo DS and Sony PSP.
Both titles are scheduled to launch this fall under license from CBS Consumer Products.
“We are thrilled to have one of STAR TREK’s most prolific and distinguished writers on our project team,” said Todd Vaughn, Bethesda Softworks’ VP of Development. “Fontana’s involvement underscores our commitment to remain true to the STAR TREK vision and provide fans with the exceptional, original and accurate STAR TREK games that they deserve.”
EA announces 55DSL collaboration with Need for Speed Carbon
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Electronic Arts today announced that fashion street wear brand 55DSL will be coming to Need for Speed Carbon.
Exclusively designed items from 55DSL, plus a selection of garments from their ‘Zurka and the 55 Vagabonds’ winter collection, will feature prominently on key in-game characters in the game, 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.
55DSL items are specifically tailored to the game, bringing with them the unique style and tone of the brand. Exclusively designed clothing for the game will be available only through local EA events around the world and pre-order campaigns.
Andrea Rosso, the Creative Director of 55DLS is enthusiastic, “When the opportunity to work with EA, and in particular Need for Speed Carbon, came along, it seemed like a natural progression for us. I’m a gamer and I’m going to play this game for sure to see characters wearing our exclusively designed t-shirts and other items, is really amazing for me.”
“This partnership adds another layer of authenticity to our role in street culture”, says Larry LaPierre, Executive Producer on the game. “Having 55DSL integrated so tightly within Need for Speed Carbon adds an increased sense of realism to the game and gives fans the opportunity to wear exclusively designed items that brings them closer to the action.”
Ubisoft closes acquisition of the Driver franchise
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Today Ubisoft, one of the world’s largest video game publishers, announced that it has completed the previously announced acquisition of the intellectual property and technology rights to the acclaimed franchise Driver®, as well as most of the assets and all of the personnel of Reflections Interactive Limited.
Driver is a legendary brand which has already sold more than 14 million units around the globe.
This major acquisition allows Ubisoft to enter the driving game segment, one of the most important segments in the video game industry. In addition, Driver’s technology will have a positive effect on the full range of Ubisoft games.
Dead Rising demo available on 360 Marketplace
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In case you hadn't noticed, Capcom has just released that long awaited "demo" of their upcoming zombie game "Dead Rising" on X-Box 360's Marketplace.
Weighs around 1 Gig and it's a bit short though. You can kill hundreds of zombies with all different weapons in the mall.
Give it a go if you like massive zombie killing! Available now in Marketplace on X-Box 360.
Ubisoft announce 7 titles for Wii launch
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Today Ubisoft, one of the world's largest video game publishers, announced that it is preparing seven titles for the upcoming launch of Nintendo's highly anticipated Wii.
In addition to previously announced titles Rayman Raving Rabbids and Red Steel, both designed specifically for the Wii, Ubisoft will deliver Wii versions of driving game Monster 4X4 World Circuit, Sony Pictures Animation's Open Season, a game based on the popular Far Cry franchise, Blazing Angels Squadrons of WW II, and GT Pro Series
With seven announced titles available at launch and with many more titles currently in development, Ubisoft expects to provide the richest third-party lineup for the Wii's introduction and beyond with an exciting combination of new intellectual properties and established franchises.
"We're thrilled that Ubisoft will be unveiling Wii versions of both exclusive new IP and established franchises," said Reggie Fils-Aime, president and chief operating officer for Nintendo of America. "Bursting with creativity, innovation and unadulterated fun, these Ubisoft games embody the qualities that will make Wii a huge hit with gamers new and established, young and old."
Ubisoft's Wii Launch Titles:
Blazing Angels®: Squadrons of WW II: As a squadron leader and ace fighter pilot, leverage the Wii controller to experience intense dog fighting in the famous air battles of WW II. Air combat simulation, rating pending.
Far Cry®: As Jack Carver, use the Wii Remote to drive, shoot, slash, jump and climb your way through a rebel-infested tropical hell. First-person action shooter, rating pending.
GT Pro Series: Immerse yourself in the fast-paced action of this exclusive Wii car-racing game and take full advantage of the Wii Remote. Racing game, rating pending.
Open Season™: Allows gamers to relive the humor and adventure of Sony Pictures Animation's highly anticipated, first feature-length CG animated film. Kids adventure, rating pending.
Monster 4X4 World Circuit: Use the Wii Remote to perform spectacular stunts, jump and race the most powerful Monster Trucks, and go head-to-head in pulse-pounding off-road competitions all over the world. Truck racing, rating pending.
Rayman Raving Rabbids™: Experience the return of Rayman when his world is threatened by a devastating invasion of crazed, out-of-control bunnies. Whether it be crazy Kung-Fu action or competing in the cow toss, players will use the Wii Remote in the most imaginative and innovative ways possible to defeat these whacky rabbids. Action-adventure, rating pending.
Red Steel™: This Wii exclusive title takes place in modern-day Japan and challenges players to master both the ancient art of the katana and the sophisticated technology of modern firearms. First-person action, rating pending.
Official UK release date for Gears of War !!
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Since the first frightening images appeared a little over a year ago, gamers worldwide have felt the ominous rumblings of something approaching that defies all convention.
Sightings as recent as at the Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3) 2006 have confirmed its existence, leaving gamers breathless. Microsoft Corp. today announced what anxious players have been eagerly awaiting: Emergence Day 2006. Available exclusively for the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, the highly anticipated title “Gears of War” will be available in stores in the UK on 17th November, 2006.
Developed by Epic Games Inc. and published by Microsoft Game Studios, “Gears of War” tells the harrowing story of mankind’s struggle against the monstrous Locust Horde through stunning high-definition graphics and an intense storyline on the scale of a blockbuster movie.
One of the most anticipated next-generation console titles of 2006 and the critic’s choice winner for the E3 2006 Best Console Game, “Gears of War” will explode onto store shelves with both a standard and limited collector’s edition. The limited edition will offer an even deeper look into the graphically stunning and frightening world of “Gears of War,” providing an official “Destroyed Beauty” art book and a bonus DVD featuring an inside look at the making of the game — all enclosed in a highly collectible metal box.
“‘Gears of War’ represents the emergence of a thrilling new franchise for Xbox 360 and is the must-have game of 2006,” said Shane Kim, general manager of Microsoft Game Studios. “Combining the best in innovative gameplay, next-generation graphics and interactive storytelling, Epic has harnessed the extraordinary power of Xbox 360 to create an extremely powerful and immersive entertainment experience.”
“Our vision is to deliver a one-two punch of cinematic action paired with a thrilling and compelling interactive experience,” said Cliff Bleszinski, lead designer at Epic. “With ‘Gears of War’ we’ve created a title that will place gamers directly in the shadows of a ravaged world, surrounded by the beautiful remnants of a destroyed city and the horrific dangers that hide in the rubble.”
Preview of Tony Hawk's Project 8 for PS3 ONLINE
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Today we bring you a little preview of Neversoft's upcoming next-gen skating game with of course the well- known "Tony Hawk" called "Tony Hawk's Project 8".
The game is sheduled for a Fall 2006 release and will be coming out on PS3, 360 and other formats.
With the preview we've also published 5 new shots from the game.
The full preview can be read right here.
Street Fighter II' Hyper Fighting on X-Box Live Arcade!
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Finally after a long wait, Capcom has finally released the long long awaited playable trail (and full with points) demo on the X-Box 360 Marketplace.
Now if you got the points, go buy the full game, it's 100% retro.
If not you can always download the trail game which unfortunately will only let you play with 2 characters on one scene.
You can't have it all.
Super Princess Peach review for DS ONLINE !
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Our second review of this week is today online and it's a game for Nintendo DS called "Super Princess Peach".
It's time to play something else then always Mario. That's why developer and publisher Nintendo released a game starrring it's own Princess Peach.
This time Mario has been captured by evil Bowser and it's up to Princess Peach to rescue her beloved friend.
However, you'll be able to use Peach's emotions as well and this could turn out to be a totally different 2D platform game.
Read the full review right here.
Samurai Warriors 2 this September on Xbox 360
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Koei Ltd. today announced plans to release Samurai Warriors 2 on Xbox 360 and PS2 this September. After its critical and public success upon release in Japan, Samurai Warriors 2 is widely regarded as the definitive Warriors title. Building upon the best features of the series, it perfects what has gone before while adding remarkable new ideas into the mix to offer gamers the ultimate Warriors experience.
About SAMURAI WARRIORS 2
For anyone who thought attacks couldn’t get any more devastating and spectacular than a fully charged Musou, think again! Samurai Warriors 2 now gives you the chance to max out your Musou gauge not once, not twice, but an incredible three times, adding an exciting and all-new element of strategy to the gameplay. Players can now choose between saving up for a devastating three-bar attack, or using smaller attacks at more frequent intervals.
Another new element of strategy is the character-specific special abilities. Each character now possesses all-new special attacks that can be triggered using the R1 button. Combine R1 with the face buttons to set traps, generate decoys, and more, to unleash even greater battlefield carnage.
The variety of enemy forces has been vastly augmented over previous iterations of the series, making for a rich and diverse visual spectacle. Character art has been enhanced, enabling easier recognition of individual soldiers, while the range of character reactions has also been greatly expanded. Enemies also offer a greater diversity of attacks, with different squads preferring to attack in their own particular style, making each encounter unique and unpredictable.
Levelling up has always been a big part of the Samurai Warriors experience, and a complete revamp of the system will now allow players to level up within a battle in real time. Reap the benefits of your play instantaneously and unleash new abilities without pausing the action! Exclusive new skills can even be learned by defeating the enemy officers you meet on the field of battle!
A brand new mode, Sugoroku, based on the traditional Japanese board game of the same name, is a game within the game that offers players a unique and innovative experience. The Sugoroku board hides a number of head-to-head challenges players must face as they vie for control of the board. For up to four players, Sugoroku delivers a deep and innovative challenge that combines the sword-wielding action of the main game with the traditional Japanese board game experience.
No more BIG E3 trade show !
[Category :
... it will apparently become much more intimate. Smaller and more focused on media and journalists.
Here are the goods:To better address the needs of today's global computer and video game industry, the 2007 Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3Expo) is evolving into a more intimate event focused on targeted, personalized meetings and activities, the Entertainment Software Association (ESA) announced today.
“The world of interactive entertainment has changed since E3Expo was created 12 years ago. At that time we were focused on establishing the industry and securing orders for the holiday season,” said Douglas Lowenstein, President of the ESA, the trade association representing U.S. computer and video game publishers and the owner of E3Expo. “Over the years, it has become clear that we need a more intimate program, including higher quality, more personal dialogue with the worldwide media, developers, retailers and other key industry audiences.”
The new E3Expo will take shape over the next several months. As currently envisioned, it will still take place in Los Angeles, described by ESA as a “great and supportive partner helping to build E3.” It will focus on press events and small meetings with media, retail, development, and other key sectors. While there will be opportunities for game demonstrations, E3Expo 2007 will not feature the large trade show environment of previous years.
“E3Expo remains an important event for the industry and we want to keep that sense of excitement and interest, ensuring that the human and financial resources crucial to its success can be deployed productively to create an exciting new format to meet the needs of the industry. The new event ensures that there will be an effective and more efficient way for companies to get information to media, consumers, and others,” said Lowenstein.
Additionally, the evolution of the video game industry into a vibrant and expanding global market has led to the creation of major events in different regions, such as the Games Convention in Leipzig, the Tokyo Game Show, and company-specific events held by Sony, Nintendo, Microsoft, and others around the world. As a result, Lowenstein said, “It is no longer necessary or efficient to have a single industry 'mega-show.' By refocusing on a highly-targeted event, we think we can do a better job serving our members and the industry as a whole, and our members are energized about creating this new E3.”
Additional details about the new E3Expo event will be forthcoming in the next few months.
Saints Row demo available on X-Box 360
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THQ today announced that the Saints Row demo is now available for free download on Xbox Live Marketplace for the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft.
Developed by THQ internal studio Volition, Inc., Saints Row takes the open-world genre to the next-generation of gaming through the use of cutting-edge technology, stunning graphics, unparalleled customization options and intense online multiplayer action. The single-player demo features hours of next-generation game-play and key story elements and comes one month before the game’s scheduled August 29th release on the Xbox 360.
“The level of anticipation among consumers and press continues to build,” said Bob Aniello, senior vice president of worldwide marketing, THQ. ”The Saints Row demo will give consumers a chance to experience a small piece of the revolutionary game coming later this month.”
About the Saints Row Demo
Offering hours of open-world gameplay, the Saints Row demo is an introduction to the game's intense single-player campaign, revealing a first-look into the in-depth character customization, detailed graphics, over-the-top gameplay and gripping storyline.
The demo is now available for free download on Xbox Live Marketplace.
Update: we have just downloaded the demo and played