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Friday, February 29, 2008

SOUTHPEAK'S CUTTING EDGE REDEFINES THE GENRE WITH X-Blades on PC


SouthPeak Games has announced X-Blades, a dynamic third-person hack-and-slash action title for next-gen consoles and PC, due for release in late 2008. X-Blades sees players controlling an enchanting anime-style heroine who must battle through a host of locations using guns, blades, magic and a healthy dose of cinematic flair.

“The unique anime-style backdrop combined with high-octane, multi-discipline combat gameplay really pushes X-Blades into brand new territory,” said Melanie Mroz, CEO of SouthPeak Games. “The 3rd-person ‘hack-em-up’ genre needs a fresh perspective and X-Blades is poised to deliver it.”

X-Blades features a special combination of cinematic style, beautiful animation and relentless high-speed gameplay. Players assume the role of Ayumi, a stunningly seductive yet tenacious heroine who battles enemies with her pistol blades, acrobatic ability and magic spells. With full anime-style cut scenes, the story unfolds revealing demonic hordes and spectacular landscapes, all ripe for exploration and frenetic supernatural battling.

“We are big fans of anime and that was really our inspiration for X-Blades,” said James Seaman, Managing Director at Topware Interactive. “Our goal was to create stylistic characters and artwork and to mix that bombastic visual style with lightning fast action. The result is a killer title that gamers and animation fans won’t be able to put down.”

X-Blades will be released for next generation consoles and PC in late 2008.

Total Nonstop Action (TNA) Wrestling And Longtail Studios Announce Development Of TNA Wrestling Mobile Video Game


TNA Wrestling and Longtail Studios today announced the development of “TNA Wrestling,” a new game for mobile phones. TNA Wrestling for mobile is the first mobile wrestling game to truly immerse the player in both the wrestling and storytelling aspects of professional wrestling.

The TNA mobile game will allow fans to step into the world of TNA as an up-and-coming superstar. Fans will be able to go head-to-head with their favorite TNA superstars both in and out of the ring.

“Wrestling is about so much more than what happens inside the ring” said Jason Altman, Head of Production, Longtail Studios, “With the TNA mobile game fans will get to experience and control the action both in and out of the ring.”

“TNA is consistently searching out new media platforms to better serve our fans worldwide, and mobile gaming will put our brand at the cutting edge of gaming,” TNA President Dixie Carter said.

Features of “TNA Wrestling” for mobile phones include:

• Master strategy and turn-based wrestling gameplay

• Strategy gameplay - Decisions and alliances you make outside the ring affect what happens inside the ring

• Customizable characters fans can create, including looks and persona

• Accumulate points to learn new moves and finishers

• Special matches such as tag team gauntlet and iron man formats

• Unlockable “unlimited wrestling mode”

• TNA superstars such as Kurt Angle, A.J. Styles, Christian Cage, Samoa Joe, Sting, The Latin American Xchange and more!

The “TNA Wrestling” mobile game is slated for a Spring 2008 launch, published by Advanced Mobile Applications. For more details on the release date and specifics per mobile service providers, visit www.tnawrestling.com.

TNA Wrestling delivers a distinct brand of high-risk, athletic entertainment featuring the biggest names in the business, including Kurt Angle, Booker T and Christian Cage, as well as the hottest young stars today – “The Phenomenal” A.J. Styles, Samoa Joe and the Motor City Machineguns. TNA features the innovative six-sided ring and the high-flying “X Division,” as well as concept matches such as “Ultimate X,” “King of the Mountain,” and “Six Sides of Steel.”

TNA Entertainment, LLC is a privately held company headquartered in Nashville, Tenn. For more information, visit www.tnawrestling.com.

“TNA iMPACT!” airs every Thursday at 9 p.m. ET/PT on Spike TV. Spike TV is available in over 96 million homes and is a division of Viacom International Inc.

Longtail Studios (www.longtailstudios.com) is an award winning developer of games and entertainment. Established in 2003 by Gerard Guillemot, a co-founder of Ubisoft Entertainment, Longtail Studios is committed to developing character driven games and content. Through partnerships with leading publishers, Longtail's products are distributed worldwide. Longtail Studios operates offices in New York City, Quebec City and Charlottetown. For more information please visit www.longtailstudios.com

Failure is not an option... This is Warfare in RTS Warfare on PC


The long-anticipated RTS Warfare is soon going to appear on the market. The term called so far is Q2 2008.

Saudi Arabia, one of the world’s leading oil suppliers and a key U.S. ally, has been taken over by a highly organized group of radical terrorists. The government is in a state of collapse and turmoil and you have been chosen to lead the United States’ armed forces to restore control.

Search and destroy using the latest military hardware from the Abrams tank to the Apache helicopter in realistic settings ranging from the open desert to close-quarters infantry combat. Wear down enemy morale by capturing vehicles, weapons and buildings.

Plan and execute, the soldiers who survive will gain experience and move with you from mission to mission. You’ll need elite forces to destroy the world’s best-armed fanatics, bent on world-wide economic collapse.

Features:
• Fight with the latest U.S. & Russian Weapons Systems
• Dominate real territories created from satellite images
• Gain experience for your troops by keeping them alive
• Capture Enemy vehicles and weaponry
• Destroy everything in your path with realistic physics
• Shock and Awe your opponents to wear down their morale
• Hone your tactics in various environments from open desert to urban combat

About GFI

GFI (www.gfi.su) is an established Russian developer and publisher of interactive software and multimedia products for PC, Wireless and DVD-Video platforms.

We specialize in Entertainment, Educational and Productivity software and Video products as well as hosting for MMOG for both domestic and international markets. With several development offices in Russia and Ukraine, we have a proven track record of creating original quality content ranging from casual to hard core.

Warrior Quest - The Online RPG – Launches On Wii | PS3 | PSP | PC And Mac

NextGenBooks.com today announces that its brand new online RPG, Warrior Quest, has gone live on its official website. The game, a traditional RPG adventure in a similar vein to classic games Dragon Quest and Phantasy Star, is a free browser based adventure that is set to grow and evolve continuously with new features scheduled to be added every month until the end of this year. The game has been optimized to run not just on home PCs and Macs but also Wii and PS3 with a PSP edition scheduled for launch before the end of March.

Warrior Quest is a magical adventure that places gamers in the role of a young, aspiring Battle Master. Battle through numerous quests in order to gain new skills, collect and trade Battle Cards, and unlock new areas of the map. New features, areas, and Battle Cards will be added to the game throughout the year meaning that there will always be a reason for gamers to return to Warrior Quest for another game, be it a short five minute session or one that lasts hours.

With the first build of the game now live the Warrior Quest development team have returned to working on the first expansion which will included a collection of new Battle Cards, new and revamped animations, and the first part of a new story mode. The first update for Warrior Quest is currently due on April 2nd. Future updates will follow every month from this.

Warrior Quest is the first in a series of new titles that will spearhead the recently re-launched NextGenBooks.com website. It has always been the goal of NextGenBooks.com to provide free content to home console, handheld console, and home computer gamers that explore new ways of storytelling. In addition to Warrior Quest an online graphic novel series, Dark Worlds, is also currently in the works and is due to launch in the coming weeks. www.NextGenBooks.com is also readying content suitable for videogame magazine cover mounts, including a standalone edition of Warrior Quest for the PSP and exclusive magazine “keys” that will unlock exclusive areas of the main online game to readers of particular magazines. Magazines and websites interested in partnering with NextGenBooks.com for this exciting opportunity can contact the development through the official website at www.nextgenbooks.com

Lara Croft, Master Chief and Super Mario request your presence!


Guinness World Record’s Gamer’s Edition will be attempting the ‘Largest gathering of Games characters’ on March 18, 10.30 for 11am at the Millenium Bridge, London and are looking for all cos players and gamers to come down and make Guinness World Record history!

Think you could be King of All Cosmos (Katamari Damacy), Master Chief (Halo) Dante (Devil May Cry) or Gabe Logan (Syphon Filter) then we want to see you there! Anime or Manga to World of Warcraft, whatever you are in, get dressed up and help break a record!

All characters will appear in the Guinness World Record Gamers Edition 2009 plus on the website as well as receiving a gift for their efforts!

The record attempt celebrates the inaugral Guinness World Record Gamer’s Edition that is on sale now and is bursting with new records, high score statistics and fascinating facts.

In addition Guinness World Records are also searching for the next new gaming record breaker to join the hallowed ranks of the book. Applicants are being encouraged to upload their scores on the Gamer’s Edition website, http://gamers.guinnessworldrecords.com to enter the challenge.

Konami Digital Entertainment Reveals Details For Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns Of The Patriots


Following opening remarks made during the General Session at the 2008 Destination PlayStation retailer event in Scottsdale AZ, Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc. confirmed several new initiatives related to Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots, including a North American street date, online multiplayer, and pre‐sell program.

Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots is the final chapter in the saga of Solid Snake which sends him around the world in pursuit of his arch nemesis, Liquid Ocelot. Armed with new gadgets and abilities, Solid Snake must shift the tides of war into his favor, using the chaos of the battlefield to infiltrate deep into enemy territory. In his globetrotting final mission, Snake must sneak deep into enemy locations in the Middle East, South America, and other corners of the Earth to foil Liquid Ocelot’s plans for total world domination.

Street Date
Opening remarks revealed that the final chapter in the saga of super spy Solid Snake is expected to arrive in stores in North America on Thursday June 12th, 2008. “Blockbuster events and premieres are a tradition of the summer,” said Kazumi Kitaue, Konami Digital Entertainment Inc. Chairman and CEO. “We anticipate that Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots fits that bill perfectly, and consumers will be waiting in line to get their copy of the game just like it’s a hit Hollywood movie.”

Metal Gear Online Starter Pack
It was also confirmed today that Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots will launch with the Metal Gear Online “Starter Pack” supporting online gameplay. In addition to the single player experience, gamers will also be able to take the action online with up to 16 players and battle it out using the latest weapons and stealth techniques.

Pre‐Sell Program
Beginning April 2008, consumers that pre‐order Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots will receive the Metal Gear Saga 2.0 DVD, containing a Prologue that recaps the Metal Gear franchise, a 20th Anniversary retrospective, character bios for Big Boss, Liquid Snake, Solidus Snake, and Solid Snake, plus a collection of international trailers of Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots. This pre‐order package also contains an insert with a download code and special instructions for accessing the Metal Gear Online beta test when it goes live in late April. This special pre‐order package will only be available while supplies last.

Get ready for war on an epic scale with BATTLESTATIONS: PACIFIC


Eidos Interactive Ltd., one of the world’s leading publishers and developers of entertainment software, can today confirm that Battlestations: Pacific, the official sequel to 2007’s acclaimed Battlestations: Midway, will be released on the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and Games for Windows.

Set in WWII, Battlestations: Pacific delivers intense, action-packed combat and strategic warfare on an extraordinary scale and features two distinctly different single player campaigns. As the Americans, the game picks up the story where Battlestations: Midway left off and allows players to fight their way from The Battle of Midway to Okinawa as they try to secure peace in the Pacific. As the Japanese however, players take control of the Imperial Japanese fleet and have the unique chance to fight at Pearl Harbor before attempting to change the course of history and take full control of the Pacific Ocean.

Battlestations: Pacific offers a unique blend of action and strategy, as players must plan their moves carefully on huge open-world arenas and then fight in the air, above sea and underwater as they take direct control of their units and storm into combat. Join forces with friends online or play solo against the computer controlled opponents in the all-new Skirmish mode or battle each other in one of the five new, innovative multiplayer modes.

“Battlestations: Pacific is even bigger, more authentic and innovative than ever before, taking the Battlestations franchise to the next level and allowing players to relive some of the most memorable battles in modern history, as well as gain an insight into what could have been, should Japan have gained the upper hand against the United States,” said Trevor Burrows, Brand Manager at Eidos. “We have been paying great attention to our loyal online community and fan base to ensure that Battlestations: Pacific delivers the most exciting, authentic and fun Battlestations experience yet!”

Battlestations: Pacific features a massive US and Japanese single player campaign with over 28 story missions, double the size of the previous Battlestations: Midway. The game also features 21 new units, including kamikaze and other WWII jets and units. Players can now experience for the first time a whole new level of depth of gameplay while taking direct control of the infamous Ohka and other Japanese air units that terrorised the Pacific Ocean during WW2.

For the first time, the game also includes the tactical landing of troops in battle. Launch your parachute squadrons with pin-point accuracy or ensure the safe passage of your landing craft and watch your battalions of troops capture key locations, man the defensive artillery and gain a strategic foothold to support your offensive efforts.

Battlestations: Pacific is set for release on Xbox 360 and Games For Windows.

Eccentric weapons in Elf Online


As the Confucius said, A craftsman, if he means to do good work, must first sharpen his tools. It’s quit a golden saying. In Elf Online (http://elf.happymmo.com), whatever your career is, weapon is always the foremost item to bear the brunt of fighting externally as well as bring out your characteristics and disposition internally.

The weapon system of Elf Online (http://elf.happymmo.com) is composed of short weapon, long distant weapon, double weapon, soft weapon, boxing tools, etc. Here we will introduce some interesting weapons which are out of common imagination.

Boxing Chicken Leg Stick, please notice that it’s not a delicious fried chicken leg from KFC or Macdonald, so when you see it, please cautious and stop your mouth watering despite its attractive smell.

Dodging Banana Dart. Does it made from banana? May be. It makes sense that even banana peel can make you slip down, let alone banana dart. Please pay more attention to it. Toilet Brushes for Knights. Judged from its name, we can guess it’s a noble weapon for the cavalier, but, toilet brush? Ha-ha, I can’t believe it even when I saw.

OK, it is hard to list all the wonderful weapons in Elf Online (http://elf.happymmo.com), please join in the game and enjoy more fun there.

More information about Elf Online, please visit http://elf.happymmo.com
Official forum: http://forum.happymmo.com/

English trailer for Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: My Life as a King

Even though we’re still running content from GDC on Siliconera the conference seems like a distant memory. Last week at Square Enix’s WiiWare panel, I saw an English trailer for Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: My Life as a King. The trailer didn’t go into gameplay, there was a second video detailing that, but for those of you who were not at GDC you get to see approximately a third of the video presentation. (The second video was significantly longer than the trailer.)



Is Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: My Life as a King aesthetically pleasing? Originally, Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: My Life as a King was going to have graphics slightly better than the best looking Virtual Console games (read: Nintendo 64) to keep costs down. The team had a change of heart and settled on upgrading the visuals to make them on par with a Gamecube game. Finally, since this was a Final Fantasy title they wanted to go all out.

Even more interesting, as revealed in the Q&A, My Life as a King didn’t begin its life as a Final Fantasy game at all. Instead of fluffy moogles this could have had original characters.

Source: Siliconera

Nintendo Wii version of the Freeloader complete


I’m sure you’ve read this somewhere else by now, but in case you haven’t a Nintendo Wii version of the Freeloader exists. Datel’s device allows gamers to boot Wii games regardless of region similar to the Gamecube Freeloader, which was recently blocked by a Nintendo firmware update. Until the next firmware fix this nifty tool should let importers pick up Japan only releases like Naruto Shippuden: Gekitou Ninja Taisen EX 2 and Eyeshield 21: Field Saikyou no Senshi Tachi plus a bevy of games before they get released internationally.

So, why did I wait on posting breaking news? I put in multiple calls / e-mails to Datel to ask if the product is actually shipping, what games they’ve tested and if they have a contingency plan to fight firmware updates. I still don’t have a solid answer to any of these questions, but these are the things that happen behind the scenes at some desk littered with Katamari cell phone charms.

Source: Siliconera

The Velvet Assassin Strikes Down Sabotage video game - with video


Today developer Replay Studios, along with publisher Gamecock Media Group, have announced the official name change for ’Velvet Assassin’, their upcoming stealth-action title formerly known as ‘Sabotage’. The new title creates a perfect marriage between the story of real life hero Violette Szabo and the clandestine art of sabotage she championed. From the incredibly innovative art style, storyline, and combat gameplay, Velvet Assassin is poised to revolutionize the stealth-action genre later this year.



“Rather than a trite, overused, and generic working title like ‘Sabotage,’ ‘Velvet Assassin’ captures the heart of what we’re trying to accomplish,” said Sascha Jungnickel, Creative Director at Replay Studios. “From the start we’ve wanted a game with a strong female lead that stays true to the history of Violette Szabo while pulling players into a world of dark intrigue.”

Inspired by the true story of British Agent Violette Szabo, players will take on the role of Violette Summer. Behind enemy lines in Nazi occupied Europe, Violette risks her life fighting to fell the Third Reich with anything she can get her hands on, including enemy soldiers. With no support or official backing from the British Government, Violette puts everything on the line to defeat the German war machine – one mission at a time. Velvet Assassin combines lush, surreal visuals, a ground-breaking stealth combat system and one of the most unique perspectives ever brought to gaming. Velvet Assassin is planned to release in Fall 2008 on PC and next-generation consoles.

“Most of the time a name change happens because it’s not ‘catchy’ enough or because the marketing team didn’t like it,” said Tim Hesse, Executive Producer at Gamecock Media Group. “I have to say, the Replay crew have outdone themselves by making Violette into one of the best looking stealth-killers ever. This game has come so far since last year that Sabotage just didn’t do the game justice – ‘Velvet Assassin’ sums up every aspect that makes this game great.”

Replay Studios will be on hand with Velvet Assassin at Gamecock’s EIEIO 2008 in Austin, Texas on March 6th. For more information, please visit: www.EIEIO2008.com

Thursday, February 28, 2008

EXCLUSIVE REQUIEM BETA ACCESS Download and play now


EXCLUSIVE REQUIEM BETA ACCESS

MATURE: 17+ USERS ONLY

FilePlanet Free MMO Club users are the FIRST to get into the Requiem Online beta. If you're at least 18 years old, and looking for a serious, mature MMO then look no further - Requiem Online is for you. The game features a storyline of conflict between good and evil, graphic and bloody battles, and a unique DNA customization system that lets players develop new powers.


Be one of the FIRST to get into the Requiem Online beta test. We have the first batch of keys exclusively here on FilePlanet's Free MMO Club!

Get it here...

No Doubt Hits Now Available For Guitar Hero III: Legends Of Rock


No Doubt Hits Now Available For Guitar Hero III: Legends Of Rock

Fans will now be able to shred to hits from No Doubt’s renowned album Tragic Kingdom with the release of a new downloadable track pack for Activision, Inc.’s (Nasdaq: ATVI) Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock.

This epic set of master recordings is plucked straight from No Doubt’s diamond selling album and includes such beloved chart toppers as “Don’t Speak,” “Excuse Me Mr.,” and “Sunday Morning.” The track pack is currently offered on Xbox LIVE Marketplace for Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and will be available later today on PLAYSTATION Store for the PLAYSTATION 3 computer entertainment system.

Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock offers the ultimate rock experience with new wireless guitars, freshly added content and features including a multiplayer action-inspired battle mode, grueling boss battles, a host of exclusive unlockable content and visually stunning rock venues. Expanded online multiplayer modes allow axe-shredders worldwide to compete head-to-head for true rock status as they riff through a star-studded soundtrack including master tracks by legendary artists such as Aerosmith, Guns 'N' Roses, The Rolling Stones, Beastie Boys, Rage Against the Machine and Pearl Jam, as well as original songs by guitar icons Slash and Tom Morello. Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock is now available and is rated "T" for Teen by the ESRB.

2K Sports Steps Up to Bat with Exciting Wii Motion Controls for Major League Baseball 2K8


2K Sports Steps Up to Bat with Exciting Wii Motion Controls for Major League Baseball 2K8

What better way to for gamers to enjoy a baseball video game than to move like they are actually playing baseball? With Major League Baseball 2K8 on the Wii home video game system, fans of all ages and skill levels will be able to step up to the plate and hit one out of the park. Major League Baseball 2K8 provides the most fun and exciting baseball simulation experience available and the innovative Wii controls allow fans the opportunity to pitch, bat, field and run the bases using the Wii Remote and Nunchuk.

Some of the fun new Wii gameplay controls for Major League Baseball 2K8 include:
Pitching – To pitch, players simply point the Wii Remote at the screen, pull back to start the pitcher’s motion, then flick the Wii Remote forward. The quicker the player flicks the remote, the more velocity and movement the pitch will have. The Nunchuk can be used to view a player’s pitch arsenal and to select which pitch to throw.

Batting – Swinging for the fences with Major League Baseball 2K8 on Wii will provide fans with even more fun when they control the Wii Remote as if they were swinging a real bat. The Nunchuk acts to control the direction of the ball.

Fielding – While controlling their designated player using the Nunchuk, players can snag fly balls and use the Wii Remote to throw to the appropriate base. Players can use Major League Baseball 2K8’s “Smart Throw” technology to throw to the best base by simply flicking the Wii Remote or can manually choose which base to throw to by pressing a direction on the directional pad

Baserunning – Players can control the speed of their baserunning by shaking the Wii Remote and Nunchuk simultaneously, then pushing both controllers to slide.

Major League Baseball 2K8, rated E for Everyone by the ESRB, will be available in retail stores on March 4, 2008, for Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, Wii home video game system, PLAYSTATION 3 computer entertainment system, PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system, and PSP (PlayStationPortable) system.

For more information about Major League Baseball 2K8, please visit www.2Ksports.com.

SBK08, the official game of the HANNspree Superbike World Championship

SBK08 – First official trailer available!



Black Bean Games is pleased to announce the exclusive release of the first trailer for SBK08, the official game of the HANNspree Superbike World Championship, developed by Milestone. The video is available now on www.gamespot.co.uk

As well as featuring the official teams, riders and tracks of the current WSBK Championship, SBK08 has six difficulty settings, that will appeal to WSBK fans and gamers alike. A fast paced, action packed arcade mode for gamers that want to jump in and challenge WSBK greats like Troy Bayliss and Max Biaggi, through to a full simulation mode for those that like to be challenged by mastering a superbike round some of the worlds most famous circuits including Donington, Valencia, Miller, Misano, Assen, Magny Cours and many more

SBK08 will be available on Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, PSP, PlayStation 2 and PC and is scheduled for release in May 08

2K Sports Announces Major League Baseball 2K8 Has Gone Gold


2K Sports Announces Major League Baseball 2K8 Has Gone Gold

Let’s play ball! 2K Sports today announced that the highly anticipated baseball simulation title, Major League Baseball 2K8, has gone gold and is now ready for production for Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, PLAYSTATION 3 computer entertainment system, PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system, PSP (PlayStationPortable) system, and Wii home video game system. Available on March 4th in retail stores nationwide, Major League Baseball 2K8 offers dedicated fans the opportunity to enjoy exciting and expanded features to provide the most fun and realistic baseball simulation experience available.

Major League Baseball 2K8 will revolutionize player control this year with brand-new pitching, fielding and baserunning, as well as a completely overhauled batting interface. To bring fans closer to the action than ever before, Major League Baseball 2K8 features authentic Major League Baseball and Minor League stadiums that have been completely redesigned for accuracy, complete with the detail and specific architecture of each ballpark and city.

Jon Miller and Hall of Famer Joe Morgan, the best announcing duo in baseball video games, are back in the booth to deliver the deepest commentary available, providing insightful analysis of each ball and strike. Other in-game features include a totally unique trading card system, robust Minor League system including 90 playable minor league teams, all-new Signature Style™ animations complete with home run celebrations, and much more.

Major League Baseball 2K8, rated E for Everyone by the ESRB, will be available in retail stores March 4, 2008, for Xbox 360, PLAYSTATION 3, PlayStation 2, PSP (PlayStation Portable), and Wii.

For more information about Major League Baseball 2K8, please visit www.2Ksports.com.

WWII Battle Tanks: T-34 vs. Tiger Final Box Artwork Revealed


WWII Battle Tanks: T-34 vs. Tiger Final Box Artwork Revealed

Leading publisher Lighthouse Interactive today released the final box artwork and 6 new screenshots for their upcoming tank simulation game 'WWII Battle Tanks: T-34 vs Tiger'.

The box artwork is simple, yet powerful - displaying the true essence of this highly realistic WW2 Tank simulation game: the agile and fast moving Russian T-34 tank and the brutal, heavily armoured German Tiger. WWII Battle Tanks: T-34 vs Tiger allows players to experience the power of some of the most advanced weaponry of its time and battle the enemy head on during some of the most critical campaigns of World War 2.

Following on from their massively successful Ship Simulator series, with WWII Battle Tanks: T-34 vs Tiger Lighthouse aims to wow simulation fans with yet another high quality and genre-defining simulation game, because WWII Battle Tanks: T-34 vs Tiger is looking stunningly realistic and has all desired playing features on board. Suited for Windows XP and Windows Vista this game is scheduled to release in Q2 2008 for PAN European territories.

Game summary

The tank simulation ‘WWII Battle Tanks: T-34 vs. Tiger’ takes place in Belarus during the summer of 1944, in which the Soviet Union launched “Operation Bagration”, the Belarusian offensive, against the retreating German Wehrmacht. After Kursk, this was the most significant struggle of the two tank armies and resulted in the complete destruction of the German Army Group Center and the Soviet recapture of all territories within their 1941 borders.

The player can experience the battlefield from within the Russian T-34 and the German “Tiger”, with fully animated 3D interiors and playable Driver, Gunner and Commander positions. The tanks’ dynamics include realistic physics, accurate ballistics and elaborate damage models. Interior models feature historically accurate gun-sight optics.

The vast Belarusian landscape of the early 20th century, with its rolling hills, villages and large forests was carefully recreated from historical reference photos and maps. The rich battlefield environment includes AI controlled Russian and German tanks, infantry, armored-personnel-carriers, anti-tank-guns and airplanes.

Stunning special effects, such as explosions, fires and smoke, the ability to completely destroy vehicles and buildings, all combine to create a lifelike combat environment. The action can be viewed from various camera angles in first or third person view.

‘WWII Battle Tanks: T-34 vs. Tiger’ includes two single-player campaigns and two multiplayer modes (skirmish and team-play) for LAN and Internet play for up to 16 players.

Features

• German and Russian Campaign missions are based on “Operation Bagration”, the codename for the Soviet Belarusian Offensive during World War II.
• Playable tanks: The Russian T-34/85 and the German Sd.Kfz. 181 "Tiger" Ausf. E.
• Control your tank from fully modelled and animated 3D positions. (driver, gunner and commander).
• “Napalm Engine” 3D technology allows for impressive effects, such as dynamic shadows, self shading, bump mapping, specular maps, glow and bloom.
• Stunning graphics and huge realistic landscapes to explore.
• Interactive environment with various levels of destruction: Buildings, trees and vehicles can be damaged or destroyed by cannon, MG fire or ramming attacks.
• AI controlled vehicles include: T-34/85, T-34/76, Tiger, Sk.Kfz.251, M3A1,ZIS-5, Opel Blitz, ZIS-3, Pak. 40, IL-2, FW-190.
• Multiplayer options include: LAN and Internet play for up to 16 players; Two multiplayer modes: Skirmish and TeamPlay.
• The game is GameSpy Arcade ready for online multi-player sessions and uses DirectPlay TM technology for direct IP multi-player connections via LAN and Internet.
• “TrackIR” support immerses the player in hands-free first person views for all available crew positions.

For more information on ‘WWII Battle Tanks: T-34 vs Tiger’ and to keep up with the latest breaking news, visit www.lighthouse-interactive.com

Unique Role Playing Aspects Of Hard To Be A God Revealed

Unique Role Playing Aspects Of Hard To Be A God Revealed

VARIED QUESTS, IN-DEPTH CHARACTERS AND MIXED GENRES CONTRIBUTE TO UNORTHODOX GAMING ADVENTURE

Hard To Be A God, the new action and adventure game from Ascaron to be released in April, uniquely combines the sci-fi and medieval fantasy genres with a mix of Hack & Slash and RPG gameplay. Exceptional attention to detail during game development results in an in-depth storyline, advanced character development and a diverse range of quests, set on a planet locked in medieval times.


Blurring genres
The original storyline distinguishes it from other role playing games. The crossover of medieval fantasy and sci-fi provides a unique opportunity to combine the archaic with the futuristic, mixing a medieval backdrop with technologically advanced items. The in-depth and intriguing story development immerses the player in the role of a secret agent sent from a futuristic Earth to the medieval, alien planet of Arkanar.

Character customisation
As the game progresses a unique individual, far removed from the secret agent at the start, will have evolved. Customisation of the character is made possible through combat skill or ability development, such as swordsmanship or negotiation. This fine-tunes the character to suit a particular type of gameplay. The different guises that the character is forced to take on, including bandit, don, aristocrat and monk, will affect the combat methods and style of gameplay.


Range of quests
A variety of quests needs to be completed, from defeating ruthless bandits to recovering a lost child. Different individuals will be met along the way, each with their own background storyline, adding to the depth of the game. Alternate ways to complete quests give the player choice in how best to progress; some quests require clever battle tactics or diplomacy, i.e. if outnumbered by a gang, kill the leader and the rest will cooperate, while others are dependent on nerve and strength.

Try your luck at survival by visiting www.hardtobeagod.com to download the demo.

Fast facts:
Publisher: Ascaron Entertainment / Nobilis
Web: www.Ascaron.com / www.hardtobeagod.com
Developer: Akella
Release date: 11thApril 2008
Price: £29.99
PEGI: 12+
Format: PC
Genre: RPG/Hack & Slash

EA ANNOUNCES THE SIMS 2 FREETIME EXPANSION PACK


EA ANNOUNCES THE SIMSTM 2 FREETIME EXPANSION PACK

Reward Your Sims With a Wide Variety of Fun, New Activities!

Electronic Arts today announced that The Sims 2 FreeTime, the newest expansion pack from The Sims, is available on store shelves across Europe and North America. A wide range of all-new activities, hobbies and cool careers are now available to your Sims with this expansion pack. New life pursuits based on your Sims personal interests mean that even more creativity and unique stories are now at your fingertips. Sports, music & dance, arts & crafts, science, and film & literature are just some of the new storytelling options connected to your Sims discovery and pursuit of their individual hobbies.

“The Sims 2 FreeTime empowers your Sims with the tools to explore hobbies that are entertaining and that go beyond the every day,” said Rod Humble, Head of The Sims Studio. “Now your Sims have the freedom to discover a wide range of talents, add stimulating career options, expressive and artistic outlets, and fun leisure time activities. The Sims 2 FreeTime adds depth and humor to the gameplay storytelling, and also appreciation for the experiences that make life enjoyable.”

Sims can follow their dreams and rediscover the joys of leisure time! Awaken your Sims' true passions in life as they discover and excel at all-new activities. Whether they're kicking a football with the family, practicing ballet, restoring cars with friends, or building train sets, your Sims now have more ways to build skills, enhance friendships, and make their lives more successful. Craft new, unique items for your Sims that they can use in their daily lives including clothing, pottery, and more. Your Sims will even unlock secret rewards by mastering their hobbies and advancing in all-new careers. Explore a wide variety of new hobbies that will change your Sims' lives!

Talented mechanics can remodel and then drive their newly-renovated sports cars. Sims can rake in oodles of Simoelons with skilfully crafted pottery or by writing a mesmerizing novel. A variety of individual artistic interests can be developed, including playing the violin, playing the piano and creating beauty on a painting easel. For Sims that love games, chess, darts, billiards and basketball lay-ups all await them in The Sims 2 FreeTime. Even a model train set can be personalized by your Sims!

Explore cool careers that bring happiness and fulfilment to your Sims in The Sims 2 FreeTime. New cool career options are available, including oceanography, architecture, and entertainment. And now by honing their talents, your Sims can unlock a secondary aspiration making them even more unique.

International pop star Natasha Bedingfield is featured on The Sims 2 FreeTime soundtrack with her new hit song “Pocketful of Sunshine” sung in Simlish, the universal language of The Sims. Also on the soundtrack is an international line-up of bands and artists from Scandinavia, Europe and the US.

KEY FEATURES

• New Gameplay Elements Tied to Hobbies. Your Sims can discover the activities that they’re most passionate about! Addition of a wide range of new activities, including sports, music & dance, arts & crafts, science, film & literature and more, all add new storytelling options tied to your Sims discovery and pursuit of specific hobbies. Sims can now participate in contests to win prizes and Simoleons, or they can master interests, practice and improve their skills, and get in “the zone!” Your Sims can enrich their lives by creating items to use or sell, like pottery or cars. These new hobbies can strengthen friendships and uncover secret lots.

• New Lifetime Aspiration Meter. Your Sims can measure the progress of their aspirations over a lifetime and unlock special rewards and interactions!

• Five New Career Tracks and their Reward Objects. Oceanographers can earn a koi pond, entertainers can get their own star of fame, architects can use their own drafting table, dancers can receive a ballet barre and intelligence agents can use an audio earpiece.

• All New Objects and Outfits. The Sims 2 FreeTime introduces brand new items, including a basketball hoop, pottery wheel, toddler activity table, modular synthesizer, hobby train table and much more.


Product Specifications
Publisher: Electronic Arts
Developer: Electronic Arts Redwood Shores
PC expansion pack*
Category: Simulation/Strategy
PEGI Rating: 12+
Requires The Sims 2, The Sims 2 Special DVD Edition , The Sims 2 Holiday Edition or The Sims 2 Deluxe for PC to play.

New screens of much anticipated RPG from Paradox Interactive: Mount and BladePostcards from Calradia




Postcards from Calradia

New screens of much anticipated RPG from Paradox Interactive: Mount and Blade

To ye, who possess a stout heart forged in the heat of battle - have ye a Mount and Blade? For war hath broken out in the idyllic land of Calradia.

For so long a place of mystery, unknown to all, except those brave enough to journey there. Now heralds have come from yonder, with painted tablets depicting this fabled place.Across welcoming sun-drenched expanses, through green and pleasant lands ye must travel. Over unspoiled rivers that sparkle with hallowed brilliance, to majestic towns built from stone. Ye must enter dark, torch-lit halls to find these warring factions, to pledge yourself to their service.

Be ye mercenary, cutthroat, knight or adventurer the clash of steel upon steel beckons all forth. Whether ye seek wealth beyond measure or everlasting glory – ye must ride. Ride hard! Ride fast!!

Player One hits 'double top' with exclusive Professional Darts Corporation mobile Cellphone game


Player One hits 'double top' with exclusive Professional Darts Corporation content deal

Player One has extended its impressive list of mobile sports rights, securing an exclusive, worldwide deal with Darts' most powerful governing body, the Professional Darts Corporation.

As part of the rights, Player One will launch the first ever fully licensed PDC World Championship mobile game, featuring the World’s leading players. The game will coincide with the two week event in December at Alexandra Palace, the new home for the greatest darts show on earth!

Player One will also represent selective new media rights in certain territories, offering operators access to live streaming, clips and interviews from some of the sports top tournaments, including The World Match-play, World Grand Prix, Las Vegas Desert Classic, UK Open and the Premier League.

Pete Russell, Player One’s Managing Director is delighted with the partnership, ‘This is a significant deal for Player One. It is fantastic to be working with such a progressive organisation such as the PDC and believe there is a significant opportunity to grow the mobile community for darts around the world. For Player One it re-enforces our position as the leading provider of top quality mobile sports entertainment’

Barry Hearn, the PDC Chairman, commented, ‘Darts has seen significant growth in popularity over the past few years and we are committed to ensure darts fans around the world get access to our product. Mobile is becoming an important platform for us and we are delighted to be working with Player One who have a strong track record in this area’

Lost Empire Immortals PC Video Game Goes Gold

Lost Empire Immortals Goes Gold

From the depths of the cosmos Paradox Interactive heralds the imminent release of the universally vast 4x strategy title - Lost Empire: Immortals. The second incarnation from Danish Studios – Pollux Gamelabs can be found colonising retail stores throughout the quadrant, from start March 15.

The title has been rated "Everyone" by ESRB and 7+ by PEGI and suggested retail price is set to USD 29.99/EUR 29.99.

In Lost Empire: Immortals, take your race to the stars and into the unexplored depths of the universe.Discover the long forgotten history of the mysterious Aeons and pillage the ruined sites of their civilisation for powerful technology. Discover and colonise planets, research and upgrade technology, make allies among your stellar neighbours or conquer those to weak to stand in your way. Will you dominate or be destroyed?

Features
  • Colossal Galactic Map consisting of 5000+ star systems
  • Lead one of 6 major races to stellar domination
  • Encounter 28 unique minor races with their own agendas and motives
  • Open-ended gameplay and alternative victory conditions provide phenomenal longevity
  • Wage war in space or planetside displayed in the new 3D rendered dual warfare system
  • Research a vast multi-nodal tree of 150+ technologies split into 11 categories
  • Customisable ship design and construction
  • Assignable leaders to boost all aspects of the empire including warmongering, production, research and diplomacy
  • Reducing player micromanagement through a revamped sleek interface

Suggested retail price: USD 29.99/ EUR 29.99

Gothic Universe - Gothic 1, 2 and 3 video games in one box - out now


Gothic Universe – Three of the best out Friday

Jowood Production are pleased to announce that on Friday 29th February 2008, they will releasing one of the most important RPG games to grace the gaming arenas in recent years. Gothic Universe compiles the complete series from 1 to 3 - including all the add–ons - that made this such a great games series. The accolades it has received over the last few years has made this game a must to play. To remind you how great this series is, view the trailer which showcases footage from all three games.

Gothic I

Eurogamer 8/10 Online: One of the most pleasing aspects of Gothic is the fact that it doesn't rely too much on established role-playing dynamics. Indeed it leans more heavily towards adventuring and exploration,

Gamespy 83/100 Online: If you're an RPG fan that is looking for a game with more substance -quests, detailed NPC interaction, and a solid plot - then you should check out Gothic

Just RPG 80/100 Online
Just Adventure 80% Online
Ace Games 10/10 Online
PC Zone 74/100
PC Gamer 75/100

Gothic II

Gamespot 8.1/10 Online: Gothic II is a substantially long game, and its different quests and different professions allow for some good replay value

Gamers hell 9.2/10 Online: In my opinion this game is a must have for RPG fans but if you’ve played and liked Gothic 1 then you’ll have no option but to run for the store and buy it as soon as possible.

IGN 8/10 Online
Just RPG 97/100 Online
Worth Playing 8/10 Online
PC Zone 80/100

Gothic III

Jolt 8.1/10 Online: It’s a very immersive experience with a friendly interface and a real “feel” to it. You will get drawn into it and find yourself living a life in game.

Eurogamer 8/10 Online: It's a beautifully rich free-form environment, as much a pleasure to explore without resorting to combat as is World of Warcraft's or Oblivion's.

Strategy Informer 7.8/10 Online
Ace Games 8/10 Online
Honestgamers 9/10 Online
Gamespot 7.6/10
Gamers Europe 7/10
PC Zone 85/100
PC Gamer 71/100
Gamesmaster 80/100


Gothic Universe – The story begins

The epic story of Gothic, now in one huge pack: Beginning your journey as a prisoner of the King, who must find enough magic ore to forge weapons for his army in defence against the Orcs. The mines are set in a large magical sphere and inside this sphere you will start exploring Myrtana’s mysteries. Once you’ve managed to burst the bonds of imprisonment, it’s on you to explore the island of Khorinis. Willing to do whatever is necessary to banish evil once and for all, defend the people against the orcish thread and venture deep into subterranean temples. After your escape from the island you didn’t find safety: The orcs have finally conquered Myrtana and enslaved the humans. Barbarians of the icy north and few fearless rebels are the only resistance. You can either support their efforts or join the orcish occupation forces - but whatever you do, the destiny of Myrtana is yours to forge!
3D action adventure with over 300 hours of exciting gameplay
Immerse yourself in the most realistic and fascinating in-game world possible: Myrtana awakens!
Liberation or annihilation - the fate of the world of Gothic lies in your hands!
Huge living and breathing environment reacting to the actions of the player and creating endless choices of interaction
Hundreds of weapons, items, spells and artifacts to equip and use
USPs
Epic, non – linear storylines with multiple endings and almost limitless possibilities
highly re-playable story lines
Extensive aspheric soundtrack

Xbox 360 Exclusive Lost Odyssey out Now!


Arm Yourselves! Xbox 360 Exclusive "Lost Odyssey" Is Available in Stores!

The wait is over, and the journey has begun. Microsoft today announced that “Lost Odyssey,” the exciting next-gen RPG available exclusively on Xbox 360 will be available from this Friday 29th February at retailers. Created by famed game producer Hironobu Sakaguchi of Mistwalker game studio in conjunction with Microsoft Game Studios and noted developer Feelplus, the title is available for £44.99 and rated 16+.

Take up arms and summon your courage to help the immortal Kaim and his friends discover secrets of the past in time to change an uncertain future. With the emotional story sequences written by award-winning Japanese novelist Kiyoshi Shigematsu, incredible cinematics inspired by renowned Japanese comic artist Takehiko Inoue and realistic graphics, “Lost Odyssey” is truly a work of next-gen RPG art.

To further enhance the traditional Japanese role-playing experience, Mistwalker adds new levels of skill and strategy with innovations like the Aim Ring battle system. The massive environments, memorable characters and epic storyline will engage gamers, immersing them in the volatile and exciting world of “Lost Odyssey.”

For more information on “Lost Odyssey” and all the latest news from the team at Mistwalker, visit www.xbox.com/lostodyssey.

Disney Interactive Studios Introduces Ultimate Band - The Only All-Inclusive Music Video Game Experience For All Ages


Disney Interactive Studios Introduces Ultimate Band - The Only All-Inclusive Music Video Game Experience For All Ages

No Peripherals Required, Ultimate Band Makes the Power to Rock Truly Accessible

Disney Interactive Studios announced today, Ultimate Band, an all new music experience for fans of the Wii home video game system and Nintendo DS. Gamers and music lovers of all ages will realize their dream of becoming a rock legend when they build their own band or jam alone, all fuelled only by the power of the Wii controllers and the DS stylus. Disney is working with some of the very biggest names in rock, alternative, popular, emo and indie rock music, allowing band mates to play sets from a broad selection of current hits and all-time rock favourites. Friends and families can rock out on guitar, bass, drums or as the front man.

“Ultimate Band invites kids, tweens and teens to join in the jam session,” said Craig Relyea, senior vice president, global marketing, Disney Interactive Studios. “And whether they choose guitar, drums, bass or front man, members don’t need to buy costly, single-function peripherals to play their way through Ultimate Band’s deep song list, dynamic venues, and customizable characters. The Wii Remote™ and DS stylus are the only tools they’ll need to reach rock stardom in Ultimate Band.”

Working with leading London-based music consultants, Radial Music, Disney has chosen to combine familiar classics with today’s hottest songs in creating Ultimate Band - a product with global appeal across all age groups. Instantly-recognisable songs from classic rock to current hit singles will bring players together for endless hours of entertainment.

"Radial worked closely with Disney to compile the perfect song list for Ultimate Band," said David Hill of Radial Music. “With iconic songs from every decade since the 60s, these games feature music for everyone."

Ultimate Band, being developed by Fall Line Studio in Salt Lake City, UT, is slated for release during autumn 2008. When Disney formed Fall Line Studio in November, 2006, Ultimate Band was the first project the team began building. Fall Line Studio’s focus is to develop Wii and Nintendo DS games based on new intellectual property, Disney brands (with Disney/Walden Media’s The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian on the Nintendo DS being its first release), and innovative new technologies such as DGamer which will provide a fun, connected game community for Disney video game fans.

Ultimate Band for Wii allows players to live the life of a rock star, by advancing their music careers and popularity from playing in a neighbourhood garage to performing in front of an international audience at a world famous venue. Ultimate Band utilizes the innovative Wii Remote and Nunchuk™ to give fans the ability to play the drums, bass guitar, lead guitar, or take on the role of the front man. Players can also create and customise characters that reflect their own unique personalities and attributes. Along the way, players will unlock new songs, venues, and accessories that can be used to customise their band members.

Ultimate Band for Nintendo DS is a rhythm-based music game with a built-in recording studio. Players can jam to current and classic songs using the drums, lead guitar, bass guitar, or rhythm guitar. Players can also create their own original songs using the DS touchscreen and stylus to lay down tracks for each instrument and apply creative mixing effects. Ultimate Band for Nintendo DS will also include DGamer functionality which will allow players to engage with others in a secure online community via their DS (Wi-Fi or ad hoc) or computer.

For more information on Disney Interactive Studios and Fall Line Studio, visit http://www.disney.com/videogames.

HOUSE OF THE DEAD 2 & 3 RETURN new game mode Extreme mode announced as an exclusive for Nintendo Wii


HOUSE OF THE DEAD 2 & 3 RETURN confirms new game mode.

Extreme mode announced as an exclusive for Nintendo Wii.

Bringing forth two of the best arcade gun games from the genre, THE HOUSE OF THE DEAD 2 & 3 RETURN delivers non-stop trigger pulling action on the Nintendo Wii. And now Nintendo Wii gamers will experience a new level of intense action with the exclusive Extreme Mode!

Available after beating THE HOUSE OF THE DEAD 2 and THE HOUSE OF THE DEAD III, Extreme Mode is a special single player mode in THE HOUSE OF THE DEAD III with a number of gameplay changes. Quicker enemy attacks make the action much more frantic and the bullet blast radius is much smaller. However, the player can take advantage of faster reloading of the shotgun as well as a new melee attack!

When the enemy is within melee range, pressing the A button will unleash the powerful melee attack that can hit several enemies!



The melee attack can also be used to block enemy attacks, missile weapons, and even boss attacks! Don’t abuse the melee attack as it requires the player to reload after each use.

THE HOUSE OF THE DEAD 2 & 3 RETURN will be released on the Nintendo Wii in March and fully supports the Wii Zapper.

For more information about SEGA please visit www.sega-europe.com.

WWE Superstars meet fans at HMV Edinburgh for WWE SmackDown vs. RAW 2008' international tournament final on Xbox 360


WWE Superstars meet fans at HMV Edinburgh for WWE SmackDown vs. RAW 2008' international tournament final on XBox 360

WHAT: WWE SmackDown vs. RAW 2008’ international tournament and signing session

WHERE: HMV Edinburgh, Princes Street (Gaming Zone)

WHEN: Thursday 6th March at 3.30 pm

Superstars from World Wrestling Entertainment, The Miz and John Morrison, celebrate the release of the ‘WWE SmackDown vs. RAW 2008’ international tournament final on Xbox 360, with a free signing session at HMV’s Princes Street store in Edinburgh on Thursday 6th March.

The UK final kicks off at 3.30 pm in the HMV Edinburgh store’s special Gaming Zone, after which the WWE Superstars will meet fans and sign merchandise from 4.00 pm.

The United Kingdom finalist, along with the two North American finalists and a finalist from Continental Europe, will compete head-to-head at the grand finale, scheduled to occur during the 6th Annual THQ Superstar Challenge on March 27, 2008 at the House of Blues in Orlando. The grand prize-winner will receive two floor tickets to WrestleMania 24, while each finalist will receive two stadium tickets to the event.

Fans can pick up free wristbands at HMV which allow them access to the signing. Wristbands will be available only from HMV Princes Street, Edinburgh from 8.00 am on Thursday 6th March onwards. One wristband per customer maximum, in person only, while stocks last, subject to availability, at participating store only.

NAMCO BANDAI GAMES Celebrates 10th Anniversary Of Tales Series With Two New Games In 2008


NAMCO BANDAI GAMES Celebrates 10th Anniversary Of Tales Series With Two New Games In 2008

Tales of Vesperia for Xbox 360 and Tales of Symphonia: Dawn of the New World for Wii Highlight Celebrated Role-Playing Series' First Decade

NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc. today announced Tales of Vesperia for the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and Tales of Symphonia: Dawn of the New World for Wii. Marking the 10th anniversary of the Tales franchise in North America, these two new games expand the series’ winning combination of real-time combat, captivating storylines and remarkable graphics while introducing original elements that set a new standard for role-playing gameplay and interactive storytelling.

The debut of the Tales series on the Xbox 360, Tales of Vesperia launches the series to new heights of interactive narrative and engrossing gameplay with incredible anime-style graphics, a captivating storyline and characters as well as an upgraded battle system. Set in a world reliant on a mysterious ancient technology known as “blastia,” the game follows former knight Yuri as he delves into a shadowy plot to use these magical devices to control civilization, or destroy it.

A bold new interpretation of the elements that made the Tales series a hit with gamers around the world, Tales of Vesperia delivers a standard-setting RPG experience on the Xbox 360. Using an all-new graphics engine and character designs by the renowned Kosuke Fujishima (Ah! My Goddess, Sakura Taisen), the game delivers high-quality HD character models and environments that are indistinguishable from traditional cel-based anime. The game also makes significant additions to the series’ trademark real-time combat system, allowing players to do battle in massive battlefields and learn new special attacks that are tied to individual weapons. New finishing blows allow players to take down enemies in a single hit with correctly timed button combinations, while mission-based battles increase the variety of each encounter as players gain unique items by fulfilling various battle objectives. Players can also use materials collected by successfully executing finishing moves to craft rare and unique equipment for their characters.

Set two years after the events of the award-winning Tales of Symphonia for the Nintendo GameCube™, Dawn of the New World follows the journey of two new young heroes, Emil Castagnier and Marta Lualdi, as they seek to uncover the mystery of why their world has fallen into ruin. In their quest, their paths will cross with the original cast of Tales of Symphonia including Lloyd and Colette, as well as a summon spirit known as Ratatosk who claims to be the lord of all monsters.

Advancing the combination of story, characters and real-time battles that made Tales of Symphonia one of the best-selling and highest-rated role-playing games for the Nintendo GameCube, Dawn of the New World introduces a new monster recruitment feature in which players can capture more than 200 unique enemies and train them to actively participate in battle. Players can then feed these monsters to make them more effective, and even evolve them into several new fearsome forms. The game also features an updated real-time battle system that lets players move freely in all directions around the battlefield, execute powerful unison attacks and take advantage of a new elemental alignment system for even more strategic depth. Dawn of the New World gives players complete control over a full roster of Tales of Symphonia characters and ally monsters, letting them customize their adventure party into hundreds of unique combinations.

“The Tales series is one of our most successful and well-regarded franchises, and we’re celebrating its 10th anniversary in a big way with two new games that redefine role-playing on the Xbox 360 and Wii,” said Todd Thorson, Director of Marketing and Public Relations for NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc. “Not only can gamers look forward to playing these two incredible titles later this year, but we’ll be supporting special anniversary-themed programs throughout the year to thank all the fans of the series for their dedication and enthusiasm.”

Tales of Vesperia for the Xbox 360 and Tales of Symphonia: Dawn of the New World for Wii will be available in stores later this year. Tales of Vesperia is currently featured in the March issue of Play magazine, and Tales of Symphonia: Dawn of the New World is featured in the March issue of Nintendo Power magazine, both now on sale nationwide. For more information on the Tales series, please visit www.namcobandaigames.com.

Grand Chase update with More Dungeons, New Equipment plus Ten Times the Daily Nutritional Requirement of Online Action!


Grand Chase is here with More Dungeons, New Equipment and Ten Times the Daily Nutritional Requirement of Online Action!

February 25th, 2008, Irvine California, Ntreev USA, Inc. announced new content and updates today for the exclusive North American release of Grand Chase, the Action Adventure MMO Brawler developed by KOG.

Get Your Brawl On in Brand New Dungeons!

In the newest update patch to Ntreev USA's North American release of the online action brawler, Grand Chase, three new dungeons have been added to the game. These new dungeons further expand the areas and maps that players can explore and conquer, solo or cooperatively. Each dungeon, as with all dungeons in the game, have three distinct difficulty levels (measured by a rating of one, tow or three stars) and their own unique final bosses that must be defeated in order to successfully complete them. In addition, the release of these new dungeons also adds new unique monsters, item drops, quests, and higher difficulty levels!

Proud Knights of Bermesiah looking to further the fight against evil should prepare for high-octane, fast-paced and brutal battles in the Forgotten City, Gaikoz's Castle and the Cemetery of the Dead to face Lich, Gaikoz and Paradom! These new dungeons are for levels 24 - 31!

www.grandchase.net

Better Equipment for Better Action!

The recent addition of new, more challenging dungeons, requires better, more powerful equipment, and the newest update includes the gear that players need to meet the challenge! New items are available for all three player types, Archers, Warriors, and Mages such as the new Royal, and Moonlight Sets for Level 25+!

www.grandchase.net

Graduate Games Releases Storked! The PC Puzzle & Platform Game


Graduate Games Releases Storked! The PC Puzzle & Platform Game

Graduate Games is proud to announce a massive update to our game Storked!, the family friendly PC puzzle and platforming game. We've listened to all the critiques and reviews and have implemented brand new features such as Point and Click Mouse controls and Puzzle Solution Playback. Storked's Gameplay is even more Frustration Free!

Storked, the pc puzzle / platform game where you control four different penguins in their quest to protect an egg has been updated to version 1.2. Graduate Games has collected all the bugs, complaints, read our storked reviews, and has listened and implemented a host of new features. The game is even more kid and family friendly than before. Some of the new features include:

Point & Click Mouse Controls - Tired of playing old school with the keyboard? Now you can simply point and click to where you want your penguin to move. To use your Penguin's abilities, simply double-click the penguin. I advise switching to the keyboard for jumping since it is still tricky.

Even More Frustration Free! Watch Puzzle Solutions - The first 50 puzzle solutions can now be watched via the pause menu. If you get stuck, just hit ESC and then click "See the solution"...the penguins will take a few moments and then walk through the solution. (Please let us know if you would like more solutions or if you are having problems with any of the existing solutions... the randomization of some game objects make exact solutions every time difficult).

Easier Kid/Easy Modes - These modes now allow you to take direct control of the egg (switch to the egg camera and use left/right keys) and roll it left and right toward the exit...you may not even need those penguins after all.

Additional Kick Power Gauge - Conveniently placed right over your penguin's head

The typical bug & glitch fixes - Hopefully we've stomped out even more bugs and minor flaws.

Cellphone mobile news: GAMEVIL USA Launches Path of a Warrior: Imperial Blood with Multiplayer Mode


A new epic multiplayer game hits mobile phones in the U.S.

GAMEVIL USA, the LA-based mobile games publisher, announced today the launch of Path of a Warrior: Imperial Blood, an epic role-playing and hack and slash adventure that now has a multiplayer mode that allows you to fight with friends and other players.

In Path of a Warrior: Imperial Blood, the nation is suffering from a civil war after the death of the Emperor, and the outcome of the war will depend on the choices the player makes throughout the game. But it’s not just the 25 different endings or the 100 plus collectible items that make this game unique. The game now has a multiplayer mode where players can participate in duels or team up with others in missions. Players can level up their characters, build up their experience and earn gold to purchase items in single player mode, then login to the multiplayer version with their upgraded characters. The multiplayer mode includes one-on-one and two-on-two battles in either duels or missions. Victorious battles will earn you more experience, gold, and fame, all of which can be applied in single player mode. Winning in two-on-two battles can earn you even more experience, gold, and fame. With a seamless blend of action, role-playing, and massive multiplayer online game play, Path of a Warrior: Imperial Blood presents a new kind of mobile game that takes advantage of the purpose of mobile phones: connecting with others.

“We wanted to take mobile gaming to the next level with networked game play and further enhance the player’s experience.” said Stephanie Huang, Marketing Manager of GAMEVIL USA, Inc. “It’s surprising that there’s not that many mobile games already out there that utilize that kind of multiplayer technology. The option for users to play with their friends makes mobile gaming even more enjoyable, and we wanted to give our players that experience with the multiplayer feature in Path of a Warrior: Imperial Blood.”

Xbox 360 HD DVD in stock despite price cut to $49.99


Microsoft Corp.'s Xbox 360 HD DVD Player held an in-stock status at Best Buy stores and Circuit City stores despite a price cut to $49.99 this week.

On Wed., Xbox 360 HD DVD Player was available for purchase at Best Buy stores and BestBuy.com. The item was also in stock at Circuit City stores for in-store pickup and online delivery.

In contrast, online retailers Amazon.com and Kmart.com earlier this week briskly sold out of remaining inventory of the external drive immediately after the price cut.

The Xbox 360 HD DVD Player will prove to be a difficult sell to customers as the high-definition format is deemed obsolete by retailers.

Toshiba Corp. last week said it would exit the HD DVD business and end production by Mar.

U.S. retailers have begun offering HD DVD products at steep discounts to move inventory.

Best Buy and Circuit City this week discounted the HD-A3 HD DVD Player to $99.99.

Amazon.com this week price cut select HD DVD titles to as low as $11.95 to clear inventory.

Last week, it began promoting a new 57% off HD DVD sale to include box sets.

Microsoft last week said that it will end Xbox 360 HD DVD Player production but continue to provide product support.

Analysts last week said that it does not expect Microsoft to provide a Blu-ray-based solution for the Xbox 360. Instead, they predict a focus on digital content distribution via the Xbox Live online network.

Jagex Launches FunOrb Games New games portal offers greater depth of gameplay and community features


Jagex Launches FunOrb Games

New games portal offers greater depth of gameplay and community features

Jagex Ltd, the online games developer behind RuneScape, today launched FunOrb, their latest games offering. FunOrb is an engaging website that offers an array of online games, which have greater depth of play than traditional casual games.

FunOrb has been designed with time-pressed gamers in mind. “For the first time, there is a generation of experienced gamers, turned young professionals, who want to play and be challenged, but are unable to devote large amounts of free time to gaming. FunOrb addresses this niche by blending quality entertainment with social functionality, offering players of all levels a complete social gaming experience.” said Geoff Iddison, CEO, Jagex.

FunOrb will encompass a broad range of game genres, including classic shooters, puzzlers, 3D platformers and strategy games. FunOrb offers a mix of single and multiplayer games, complete with virtual ‘lobbies’ enabling users to choose who to play against from hundreds of other FunOrb players. Additional features such as friends league tables, player achievements, forums and instant messaging will also be available in-game or on the website.

While a large portion of FunOrb is free, those who become members will be granted complete access to the site with additional game levels, achievements and community features. A new game or feature will be added to FunOrb every two weeks and new multiplayer elements will be rolled out as the site continues to evolve.

FunOrb games use the same Java technology that helped to make RuneScape so successful. The proprietary technology means that the games can be played using any internet browser, without the need for long downloads or access to a high speed internet connection. Once downloaded, the games are cached and available almost instantly.

Pricing and Availability
FunOrb games are available to play by visiting www.funorb.com. Membership costs just £2.00/$3.00/€2.50 per month or alternatively, if players purchase a combined FunOrb and RuneScape package, FunOrb membership will cost only £1.40/$2.00/€2.00 per month. The service is fully localised into English and German and will be launched in new languages throughout 2008/9.

SACRED 2: FALLEN ANGEL - Fact Sheet


Sacred 2: Fallen Angel is an Action RPG with a rich story that takes place in a giant, open-ended and seamless world. This world contains hundreds of dungeons, treacherous opponents and a variety of challenging quests. Intelligent enemies, steadily adapting in number and difficulty based on player progress, challenge in heroic single- and multiplayer battles.

Sacred 2: Fallen Angel provides numerous unique items that can be gathered in this mystical world. A deep reward system further enables advancements of character, individual attributes and character-specific fighting styles, each designed to keep players returning to the world of Sacred 2: Fallen Angel to discover what is around the next bend. Drop-in styled cooperative multiplayer gameplay ensures players will enjoy the game alone or seamlessly with friends at any time. Five unique multiplayer modes round out the experience and offer a refreshing, first-class gaming experience in Sacred 2: Fallen Angel.

Key features
  • • A huge, seamless and dynamic world that allows for free-form exploration
  • Two campaigns: play as the “Light” or “Shadow” side, complete with distinct skills, rewards and story-elements tailored to the chosen path
  • Six exceptional, playable characters, each with a distinct look, capabilities and in-game motivation
  • Modifiable combat arts: change and upgrade your alter ego’s combat skills as you make choices throughout the game
  • Fight effectively from the back of a number of mounts under your control
  • Deities offer unique combat disciplines to players
  • The ultimate multiplayer experience – seamless transition between single- and multiplayer gaming modes via the Internet or Xbox Live
  • Captivating online modes of play challenge gamers in cooperative and PvP play
  • Extraordinary, cutting-edge graphics utilize the latest technologies

The information contained in this fact sheet relates to a prerelease product that may be substantially modified before its first commercial release. Accordingly, the information may not accurately describe or reflect the product when first commercially released. This fact sheet is provided for informational purposes only, and CDV Software Entertainment makes no warranties, express or implied, with respect to the fact sheet or the information contained in it.

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