Equestrian Horses video game launched - My horse and me

The equestrian game My Horse and Me was launched last week, marking the first time that the FEI has ventured into the realm of video games.
Published worldwide by Atari, My Horse and Me for Wii, Nintendo DS and PC aims to capture the thrills and emotions from the world of horsesport in a unique video game experience perfect for anyone with an interest or passion for horses.

We know that engaging with youth is one of the greatest challenges facing all sports and to have the capacity to take horsesport to the gaming audience gives us the opportunity to talk direct to both the athletes and fans of horsesport in this and future generations of young people," emphasized FEI President, HRH Princess Haya.

Players begin at the stable customising themselves and their horse from a host of options, then learning how to properly care for their mount. Training takes place across a range of arena disciplines and fun mini-games which teach the skills required to become a master horse rider. The care and training culminates in competition riding, with thrilling tournaments set in a variety of charmingly realised indoor and outdoor locations around the globe ranging from rustic stables to giant arenas.

"The exclusive license from the FEI, the world's foremost authority on horse sports, is testament to the great quality of this game which offers players the most authentic way to enjoy the equestrian lifestyle whether or not they ride in real life," said Mathias Hautefort, Executive Vice President of publishing and production, Atari.

This collaboration between Atari and FEI has really closed the gap between the virtual and the real, allowing for the development of accurate horse models and animations, alongside rewarding gameplay set in a variety of enchanting environments. Furthermore, My Horse and Me for Wii and PC is the first game of its kind to offer players a choice of first-person as well as third person views while riding, putting players right in the saddle for an unbeatably authentic riding simulation.

Microsoft is Being Sued for $5 Million Over Halo 3 and Xbox 360 Problems

A federal lawsuit was filed against Microsoft and Bungie recently alleging that Halo 3 “routinely, consistently, and systematically ‘froze,’ crashed,’ or ‘locked up’” the plantiff’s Xbox 360. The plaintiff is Randy Nunez and he is seeking class-action status along with $5 million in damages plus costs and attorneys’ fees.

The lawsuit also claims that “many consumers” have these issues, making their console “totally inoperable” and the court papers site “industry Internet web sites, weblogs, and message boards” as the sources to prove these problems exist. It also states that Microsoft and Bungie have “received numerous complaints” from consumers over the phone and on their support forums without admitting these alleged Halo 3 issues to the public.

More here...

Super Mario Gamecube custom auction

Auction here

One of a kind Super Mario Gamecube Mod.
This is a beautifully done console. The Jewel had to be removed from the top, the space
filled and sanded (much like auto body work) and then Prepped for painting.
It was then hand airbrushed by a professional artist with 15+ years experience and
finished with a protective coat of polyurethane.
The console is in perfect working condition as is the controller. it also comes with the A/V and Power cords.
This is the Earlier Model Gamecube and does include the digital output that supports the Component cables.
Don't pass up this chance! Bid now. There will not be another like it:)
Take a look at the Pictures and video below to get a better Idea of what you will be getting.

FREE Downloadable Content and Enhancements for BioShock

BioShock players can elevate their gaming experience with new Plasmids, achievements and widescreen options for free

2K Games, a publishing label of Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. (NASDAQ: TTWO), announced today that BioShock, its top-rated title exclusively available for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and Games for Windows®, has released new downloadable content for players on both platforms. The content includes new Plasmids and Tonics, achievements and interface upgrades, and is now available as free downloadable content from Xbox LIVE® Marketplace, through an Xbox 360 Title Update, and as part of a PC patch.

"As one of the highest rated games of the year, we wanted to continue to connect with the fans that made BioShock such an overwhelming retail and critically-acclaimed hit," said Christoph Hartmann, President of 2K. "We are excited to offer new downloadable content that will extend and enhance the replay value of this title."

New downloadable content includes:

Four Plasmids and Gene Tonics:
Sonic Boom: Hurls creatures and objects back with a blast of force
EVE saver: Enables Plasmids to use less EVE
Vending Expert: Reduces prices in the vending machines
Machine Buster: Increases the amount of damage players deal to cameras, bots and turrets

Achievements (exclusive to Xbox 360):
Xbox 360 players can gain 100 points for "Brass Balls," by beating BioShock on the "hard" difficulty setting without dying

In response to gamers' requests and feedback from the Cult of Rapture (www.CultofRapture.com) community forums, fans of BioShock now have a widescreen option, granting a wider horizontal field of vision, as well as additional enhancements to the game. The Xbox 360 Title Update will be automatically applied at the game's startup when users log into Xbox LIVE. PC owners can access both the additional content and gameplay improvements via a downloadable patch, available at www.2Kgames.com/bioshock/support.

Developed by 2K Boston and 2K Australia and rated M for Mature, BioShock is a "genetically enhanced" first-person shooter that lets players do things never before possible in the genre. Gamers enter the game as a castaway in Rapture, a decaying art deco underwater utopia torn apart by civil war. Caught between powerful forces and hunted down by genetically modified "splicers" and deadly security systems, players have to come to grips with a deadly, mysterious world filled with powerful technology, fascinating characters and morality defining choices. To make it to the end, players can turn everything they encounter into a weapon, biologically modify their body with Plasmids, hack devices and security systems, upgrade weapons, craft new ammo variants, and experiment with different battle techniques. No encounter ever plays out the same and no two gamers will play BioShock the same way.

For more information on the game, please visit www.2Kgames.com/bioshock.

Asterix At The Olympic Games Downloadable PC Demo Available Now

Get a Taste for Gallic Victory in the Fully Playable PC Demo of the Video Game of the Film; Game Available Now for PC, Wii, Nintendo DS and PlayStation 2

Atari today announced that the fully playable PC demo for Asterix at the Olympic Games can be downloaded from the official website at www.atari.com/asterix. Available now at retailers across Europe for PlayStation 2, Nintendo DS, Wii and PC, Asterix at the Olympic Games is the game of the forthcoming live action feature film and combines live action elements from the film with high-end computer generated and video game animation to deliver fans an original and highly entertaining Asterix experience.

Localised in six languages, the demo lets players jump in the shoes of either Asterix or Obelix and meet some of the game’s leading characters including Brutus and Alafolix alongside a decent sized horde of Romans to bash. Players can switch on the fly between Asterix and Obelix at any point throughout a series of escapades, including sporting challenges, devious puzzles, and a charming fusion of music and clobbering Romans. All in a day’s work for everyone’s favourite ancient Gauls.

In Asterix at the Olympic Games players join Asterix, Obelix and his faithful hound Dogmatix on the road to Greece as they run to the aid of love stricken friend Alafolix. Much fun and madcap adventuring follows as Asterix and his friends enter the fray in their own inimitable style, coming head to head with Brutus, his muscle-bound champion, and of course their ultimate archenemy, the mighty Julius Caesar.

Asterix at the Olympic Games is developed by Etranges Libellules in close collaboration with Asterix licensor Les Editions Albert René and with film production company La Petite Reine. The live action feature film has the biggest production budget of any film in European cinema history and is scheduled for release across Europe in early 2008.

A PlayStation®2 demo with the same content is scheduled to appear on Official PlayStation 2 magazine in December. For more information about Atari’s entire product line up, visit www.atari.com.

Xbox 360 Family Timer Launches Worldwide Through Xbox LIVE, Helping Families "Set the Clock" on Gaming

Microsoft research reveals that parents in the U.S. and Europe would welcome a timer tool to help manage their children's screen time.

Microsoft Corp. today launched the Xbox 360 Family Timer worldwide, available for download via Xbox LIVE in 26 countries. This is great news for parents because Microsoft research reveals that children’s media consumption and time spent playing video games are universal concerns for families.

A Microsoft survey conducted throughout Europe found that parents embrace the idea of support from the gaming industry, with 75 percent of them welcoming built-in technology or software to monitor the time their children spend playing video games. A similar Microsoft survey conducted in the United States last month found that 62 percent of parents say they would use a timer if it were available to help them manage their children’s interactive entertainment use. Both surveys were the product of the company’s ongoing commitment to responsible gaming and the start of year two of Microsoft’s “Safety is no game. Is your family set?” campaign.

In line with the research, Microsoft today has made available worldwide to Xbox LIVE users a new Family Timer feature that will enable parents for the first time to set the appropriate amount of gaming and entertainment time on the Xbox 360 console for their kids — on a daily or weekly basis. A list of countries with available Xbox LIVE service is at http://www.xbox.com/live/countries.

“As a leader in interactive entertainment, it has been our priority to innovate and improve our Family Settings technology to help parents worldwide manage their children’s video gaming and online experiences,” said Jeff Bell, corporate vice president of Global Marketing for the Interactive Entertainment Business at Microsoft.

In addition, the European study found that content of games and the time spent playing video games are important issues to parents. Similarly, in the U.S., 66 percent of parents have rules about the amount of time their kids can spend playing video games and 86 percent have rules about the type of content their kids have access to.

The Xbox 360 Family Timer is an addition to the console’s existing set of industry-leading parental control features. Similar to the parental controls in the Windows Vista operating system, the new Xbox 360 Family Timer can restrict children’s activity time.. Helpful notifications will appear to warn gamers that the session is nearing the end so they have sufficient time to save their game, and the feature will automatically turn off the console when the predetermined time limit has been exceeded.

Although the U.S. survey focused on media consumption and household rules while the European survey focused on habits and attitudes of families on gaming issues, both polls revealed similar results. In Europe and the U.S., video gaming is a family activity, with most parents in both regions saying that they play video games with family members (U.S., 54 percent; Europe, 51 percent). The U.S. public survey polled 800 parents who have a video game console in their home and found that 99 percent had at least some rules about media use. The public poll conducted in Europe surveyed 4,000 parents in the U.K., France, Germany and Italy and found that seven out of 10 parents (71 percent) expressed concern over the content of video games.

Microsoft’s Commitment to Families Is Ongoing

Xbox was the first video game and entertainment system with built-in parental controls for both online and offline use. Known as Family Settings, these controls allow parents and caregivers to set guidelines for the types of games they will allow, make informed choices about content, and decide with whom their children can play online. Earlier this year, Windows Vista launched with a similar set of parental controls that allows parents to guide children’s game playing, Web browsing and overall computer use. These controls help parents determine which games their children can play, which programs they can use and which Web sites they can visit — and when.

“We get up every day committed to providing consumers with unprecedented entertainment experiences, but we also understand that our success comes with a responsibility to acknowledge genuine concerns and address them through technology and education,” Bell said.

According to Bell, with more than 13 million Xbox 360 consoles sold worldwide, the company’s drive to empower parents is a core Microsoft responsibility. Last fall, the company launched the “Safety is no game. Is your family set?” national grassroots campaign (http://www.xbox.com/isyourfamilyset) with Boys & Girls Clubs of America and Best Buy Co. Inc. to educate parents about the tools and resources available to help them manage their children’s interactive entertainment experiences on both Xbox 360 and Windows Vista. Year two of the campaign will continue with the support of these partners and others such as the National PTA to educate families on parental controls, including the new Xbox 360 Family Timer, distribute a family guide called “Safety is no game. Is your family set? A Family Guide to

Video Games and Entertainment” and a PACT — a family contract intended to foster discussion between parents and children on interactive entertainment choices.

Fantasy Wars video game Lines Are Drawn As Warlords Prepare To Engage

CHOOSE YOUR ALLEGIANCE AND ENTER FANTASY WARS AT YOUR PERIL

With weapons forged and armour polished, the humans set out for war against Ugraum Grableg and his terrifying army of orcs. The ancient plains of Eolia will play host to a conflict of epic proportions. As the clouds darken and mist falls heavily around, noble Derrick Pfiel and his army prepare for combat.

Where does your loyalty lie?

As Derrick Pfiel, captain of the human army, you must choose the noblest fighters and tactically position your units. Peasants and knights make up the offensive – those on horseback are impetuous, prone to charging without order but powerful attackers nonetheless. Spearman and archers must navigate the marshes on the peripheries of the plains whilst swordsmen make up the best part of the defence.

Or play as Ugraum Grableg and his unruly mob. Although inexperienced in professional combat, they make vicious and deadly warriors on the battlefield, driven by a brutal and skilled leader. Orc Stabbers make up the main attack force along with Orcish and Mighty Riders. Grableg’s enslaved Goblins are placed in attack and defence but also reinforce the main archery unit that must master the difficult terrain.

The wait is over

A deathly silence falls on both armies as they face their enemies. Suddenly, a shrill cry echoes from the orc ranks before savage hordes of goblins rush towards the barricade of human forces.


It has begun.

Fantasy Wars is a turn based battle strategy game for PC from Ascaron Entertainment. Take on campaigns or missions as either the humans or orcs, later unlocking the elf army. Complete set tasks to win your mission, defeating the opposing enemy. The faster you complete missions, the higher your score.

www.fantasywars-thegame.com

Avencast: Rise of the Mage - upadte available

Leading publisher Lighthouse Interactive and developer ClockStone Software, today announced the release of the first update for their fantasy-based action RPG for Windows, AVENCAST: Rise of the Mage. The update adds several new enhancements upgrading the game to version 1.02.

Clockstone amassed the valuable feedback they received from the dedicated AVENCAST community to create a worthwhile upgrade. The update is a multi-language version. AVENCAST: Rise of the Mage was released throughout October and November 2007 across North America and Europe, and is available for purchase at major retail stores.
Key Upgrades in Version 1.02:

• Three new auto save options (now the game saves in three separate auto save slots so players may reload a previous auto save if an old one is overwritten)
• Unnecessary quest items removed
• Overall performance improvements including various technical fixes
• Video related fixes including DirectShow (DirectX)

To download update version 1.02 (file size: 7.8 MB) visit: www.lighthouse-interactive.com.

The complete list of new features included in the upgrade, is available at the Lighthouse forums and at www.avencast.com.

GAME SUMMARY:

As the sun rises over Avencast, the renowned academy of magic; a young adept begins his perilous journey. In a world of wizardry, wonder and untold mystery, you must undertake some of the most diverse quests to hone your abilities in spell casting, weaponry and melee combat. Your martial skills are soon put to the test as demonic monsters of unknown ancient origin descend upon Avencast turning the academy into a horrific state of chaos and destruction.

Armed with over 50 combat moves and spells, and a vast arsenal of equipment items, you must uncover the source of these ominous happenings while vanquishing an onslaught of fiendish enemies. Treachery and deceit reveal themselves as the vicious army of adversaries beleaguers your frail haven threatening Avencast’s very existence. Amidst the mayhem, an astonishing truth unfolds which will forever change the battle scarred Wizard.

FEATURES:

• Cast Lethal Spells from Different Skill Trees – Surrounded by vicious foes, unleash a mighty soul magic spell. The pure agglomeration of energy alone produces a warp in the surrounding atmosphere before the catastrophic nova demolishes your enemies. Blood Magic (elementally charged blows with varying speeds, ranges, and damage properties) and Soul Magic (covers all kinds of ranged magic spells allowing better area control) – both allow players to summon reinforcements during combat.
• Perilous Quests – While brawn and agility will win most battles, acumen and strategic thinking are necessary to survive challenging quests.
• Fluid Combat System – Chain together spells and easily execute lethal attacks using an innovative system that favors skillful gameplay over dull mouse clicking. Unleash your hero’s potential as you bring your own player skills to each intense battle.
• Strong Player Personification & Character Development - Acquire new equipment, armor, weapons and spell casting skills to craft a powerful character.
• Over 30 Nightmarish Monsters with Advanced AI – Each with versatile combat strategies, attacks, and defensive moves dependant upon the player’s behavior and attack strategy.
• State-of-the-art 3D Engine – Stunning graphics enhanced with advanced visual effects make for an impressive display of devastating spell casting.
• Many Hours of Exciting Gameplay – Set in diverse worlds with both indoor and outdoor environments to explore.
• Attractive to a Broad Range of Players – An Action RPG at its core, but dynamic gameplay and adventure-like quests make AVENCAST attractive to a broad range of game players.

MINIMUM SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS:

OS: Windows XP / Vista™
CPU: 2.2 GHz Intel Pentium® or 2200+ AMD Athlon™ processor
RAM: 512 MB (1 GB recommended for Windows Vista™)
Video: nVidia GeForce™ FX 5700 or better / ATI Radeon 9700 or better
PC DVD-ROM: 4x
Sound: DirectSound compatible (Sound Blaster X-Fi series sound card recommended)
Available Hard Disk Space: 4.4 GB
DirectX: 9.0c
Other: Mouse, Keyboard and Speakers

To find out more about AVENCAST: Rise of the Mage and to keep up with the latest news on the game, visit www.lighthouse-interactive.com and www.avencast.com.

Cheggers Says Wii-lax – He'll Get Your Christmas Party Started

Legendary TV presenter stars in Oxygen Games' Cheggers Party Quiz, launches on Wii this Friday 7th December
Tuesday 4th December/... Make sure your Christmas party has plenty of “Wa-hey!” this year by kicking off the festive season with a copy of Cheggers Party Quiz on Wii: the ultimate entertainment quiz game, hosted by Keith ‘Cheggers’ Chegwin. Discover who is the most knowledgeable amongst your friends and family when it comes to the worlds of film, music and TV in a series of fast-paced, competitive rounds designed for all ages.

“A decent variation of rounds... things progress at a healthy pace, unlike with many quiz-based video games.” – Eurogamer

“An excellent way to keep the family arguments at bay this Christmas.” – TV Hits!

“Perfect for some post-pub scratching of the grey matter.” – Irish News

“A nice, neat quiz format... a definite must for a Christmas family party.” – 8.5/10, Soteriamag.co.uk

The game features eight exciting competition rounds (Opening Night, Big Break, Picture Show, Star Turn, Prime Time, Typecast, Channel Hopping and Final Cut) that can be played on your own or, even better, with up to four teams or individuals on Wii.

With the Nintendo Wii being at the top of every Christmas list this season, Cheggers Party Quiz is a fun-packed quiz for all the family that is the perfect stocking-filler for all Wii owners, which also includes console-exclusive features. Rather than just pressing a control pad button for your answer, Cheggers Party Quiz utilises Wii technology during its quick-fire rounds so that the first with their Wii Remote in the air with the correct answer bags the big points.

Keith Chegwin, podcaster and virtual star of Cheggers Party Quiz, says:
“I can’t tell you how excited I am about my first video game appearing on the Wii. Cheggers Party Quiz and Wii are the perfect fit and we have so much in common – we’re small but perfectly-formed and ideal fun for all the family this Christmas. Wa-hey!”

With a broadcast career that spans five decades, Keith Chegwin rose to prominence in the mid-1970s with presenting slots on Multi-Coloured Swap Shop and Saturday Superstore, as well as hosting classic TV game shows like Cheggers Plays Pop. More recently, Cheggers has appeared in Ricky Gervais’ critically-acclaimed Extras comedy show and has a regular outdoor segment on GMTV.

Cheggers Party Quiz arrives on Wii Friday 7th December, priced at £34.99 and is also currently available on PC and PlayStation2.

Blockdot Launches Game For Battlestar Galactica DVD

Dallas-based Blockdot has launched Raptor’s Revenge, an explosive new game promoting the December 4, 2007, release of the DVD, “Battlestar Galactica: Razor – Unrated Extended Edition.”

Raptor’s Revenge, which features exclusive movie clips from the DVD, lets game players take control of a Colonial Raptor stationed aboard “the beast.” The mission: use quick reflexes and sharp piloting skills to maneuver the fighter into striking distance of the incoming Cylon Raiders. But with the Raptor’s frakkin laser cannons empty, battle-hardened warriors have only one option: go nuclear!

“Battlestar Galactica: Razor – Unrated Extended Edition,” from Universal Studios Home Entertainment, is a two-hour event packed with all-new BSG characters, more action/visual effects than any BSG episode, and behind-the-scenes interviews with the series’ creators.

Battlestar Galactica fans can take control of Raptor’s Revenge immediately by visiting www.battlestargalacticadvd.com or www.kewlbox.com.

TransGaming and Cyan Worlds Work Together Again to Bring Cosmic Osmo's Hex Isle to Mac

TransGaming, a leading developer of software portability products for the electronic entertainment industry, announced today the release of Cosmic Osmo’s Hex Isle, a brilliantly addictive puzzle game that will be sure to delight gamers of all types.

Commissioned by Fanista.com, Cosmic Osmo’s Hex Isle is currently being readied for distribution through Fanista.com’s new web site, where fans can purchase products, invite others to participate, and get rewarded for the value they create. Fanista.com rewards the members of its community through its unique “Common Interest Commerce” (or “CIC”) rewards program. CIC breaks new ground through the innovative fusion of social networking and commerce by recognizing the intrinsic value of member participation and rewarding them financially for the value they create when their opinions generate sales.

Developed by Cyan Worlds, the creators of the legendary Myst Online: Uru Live, Cosmic Osmo’s Hex Isle marks the second collaboration between TransGaming and Cyan Worlds.

“When we first worked on Myst Online, I was amazed with the speed and professionalism of the TransGaming team. Online games evolve very quickly and have endless iterations. TransGaming's Cider technology allowed us to focus resources on one code base, knowing full well that Cider would seamlessly and faithfully preserve the experience on the Mac. This freedom to focus allowed us to make the best game we could and avoid the expenses and compromises that a separate code base would engender.” explained Tony Fryman, President of Cyan Worlds.

“The moment we decided that Cosmic Osmo’s Hex Isle was Mac bound, we knew that Cider was the solution. In fact, you might say that Cider was the catalyst for the Mac SKU. Our conviction in the TransGaming team and Cider was completely validated when we accepted delivery of a gold master a mere 2 weeks after production started”, continued a delighted Tony Fryman.

"The Cider edition of this game demonstrates how effectively publishers can extend their franchises to the explosive Intel Mac market. Cosmic Osmo's Hex Isle is an ideal fit for the Mac gaming market and we are thrilled to be fulfilling the appetite of avid Mac gamers and equally delighted to have been working with Cyan Worlds once again,” commented Vikas Gupta, President and CEO of TransGaming.

The acceptance of Cider as the ultimate cost effective Mac gaming technology and performance solution has now been cemented as multiple repeat customers continue to choose Cider for their Mac bound content.

Top Teams from Around the World Compete in the Championship Gaming Series World Final for the Coveted Dew Trophy and $1,000,000 Prize

The Most Important TV Event in the History of Video Games to Air Exclusively on DIRECTV's Channel 101

DIRECTV, the nation’s leading satellite television service provider, is making sports history once again with the exclusive live broadcast of the inaugural Championship Gaming Series (CGS) World Final. The competition will take place December 6-14 at the Sony Studios in Los Angeles where more than 100 of the world’s top professional gamers will compete for the league’s first-ever World Champion title and a share of the $1,000,000 prize purse. All the action will be captured live and in HD on DIRECTV’s original entertainment channel, The 101, starting December 6 at 10pm ET.

“This is the Super Bowl 1 of professional video gaming,” said Eric Shanks, executive vice president, DIRECTV Entertainment. “We couldn’t be more pleased with year one of the league and the excitement that it has created worldwide.”

The CGS World Final will be the first-ever international gaming event to present all the action live, as it happens, allowing fans at home to experience the match-ups like any other sport. The groundbreaking coverage will commence with the start of CGS World Final on December 6 and broadcast three hours of single elimination competitions each night leading up to the championship game on December 14.

The playoffs will feature the top CGS teams from around the world as they compete in PC and console based games. Valve’s Counter-Strike®: Source® and EA’s FIFA 2007 are the official PC games for CGS while Tecmo’s® Dead or Alive® 4 (DOA4) and Project Gotham Racing® 3 (PGR3) from Microsoft Game Studios will be played on Xbox 360. Each round of the World Final is single elimination and the last team standing will receive the coveted Dew Trophy as well as $500,000 in prize money.

In addition to the team playoffs, the World Final will also feature a special “battle of the sexes” DOA4 match-up where Vanessa Arteaga and Ryan “OffBeatNinja” Ward, the top female and male DOA players in the world, will battle it out for supremacy. The contest, dubbed the “Itagaki Challenge,” is the brainchild of DOA creator Tomonobu Itagaki, who will preside over the face-off and present the winner with the ultimate DOA prize package, including a ceremonial Japanese Katana sword and a trip to Tokyo. The individual competition will air live on The 101 December 13 at 11:30pm ET.

“We’re honored that DOA game creator and international superstar Tomonobu Itagaki recognizes the CGS as the world’s leading professional video gaming league in the world,” said Andy Reif, CGS commissioner and CEO. “We’ve set our stake in the ground and proved ourselves as a legitimate sport and look forward to growing the league and esports in the years to come.”

In what will become an annual platform for the world’s best gamers to compete professionally, the inaugural CGS World Final will be broadcast on television to more than 350 million viewers worldwide by DIRECTV’s The 101 in the U.S., BSkyB’s Sky One, Sky Two and Sky HD in the UK, ESPN STAR Sports in Asia, SKY in Mexico and Brazil, DIRECTV throughout the rest of Latin

America, and across mainland Europe via additional soon-to-be confirmed broadcast partners.

CGS World Final event schedule is as follows:

December 6: CGS World Final press conference
December 6: First round day 1
December 7: First round day 2
December 10: Quarterfinals day 1
December 11: Quarterfinals day 2
December 13: Semifinals & Itagaki Challenge
December 14: Final

The official CGS teams participating in the World Final are as follows:

Berlin Allianz
Birmingham Salvo
Carolina Core
Chicago Chimera
London Mint
Mexico City Furia
Rio Sinistro
Seoul Jinhwa
Singapore Sword
Stockholm Magnetik
Sydney Underground
Wuhan Dragon

For more information, please go to thecgs.com.

Global MMO Game Festival Finished its Grand Final Match in Korea

Game and Game World Championship 2007 was successfully finished its grand final in Seoul attracting more than 5,000 attendances.

Starting from European match in August, this global MMO game festival went on America, South East Asia, Korea, Japan regional match with six official games: Silkroad online (www.silkroadonline.net), Shot online (shotonline.gamescampus.com), Navy Field (www.navyfield.com), Record of Lunia War (global.lunia.com), and Bomb N Dash (www.bombndash.com).

More than 100 players from winners from Europe, America, Japan, Korea, and South East Asia showed excellent gaming skill to own throne of "the best gamer in the world". For Bomb N Dash, Volkan Kilic and Duy May, both from German, were placed 1st and 2nd winners. The final match, which was 5 out of 9, was on Duy first with outrunning Volkan with 3-to-4, but Volkan won last two games taking advantage of map geometry and won $5,000 for 1st place award.

German, America, and Korea players showed thrilling match on Record of Lunia War, and Jin Sun-Woo from Korea won 1st place. Larry from the US is the youngest final match player of GNGWC2007. This 14-years-old boy came Korea with his father, and did his best, but be in the award list. In War Rock match, the US team won the 1st place, and Poland team did 2nd . Philippine team showed impressive look, with same hood T-shirts with their national flag tagged on their arms like WCG national team, but they didn't beat the Poland team. Japan team went to the cybercafé the night before the grand final match, and practiced their strategy to win over the US team, and they did well, but not enough to win the US team.

15 players selected from regional final match competed for Shot Online final match, and Korean players won 1st to 3rd places. The final match of Silkroad online was held competing with players from three areas - Korea, Taiwan, and Japan. Lee Sang-Kook from Korea won over Taiwan and Japan players. "I took the aggressive position as I usually do", he said, "I did my best and I made myself believe that I would win", he added.

Clans from Korean, Japan, and the US joined the grand final, and the final match was between 'ND' clan from Korea and 'OS2' clan Japan, and both team won the 1st place because of technical problem that couldn't progress the final match.

This 2nd annual match of GNGWC was initiated to promote Korean online games to the global gamers, and developers who their games were selected as GNGWC official games are satisfied with its feedback from global MMO gamers. Choi Kyung-Yun, PR manager of allm, said "GNGWC did incredible role to promote global service of Record of Lunia War". She added "With high awareness of Lunia to the global gamers, we now prepare commercial service of our game".

Patch released for SunAge video game

Leading publisher Lighthouse Interactive and Austrian developer Vertex 4 today released a patch for their fresh sci-fi real-time strategy game for PC CD-ROM SunAge. The patch adds several new enhancements and bugfixes, upgrading the game to version 1.05 and is intended for the English and Italian boxed versions of the game. (Direct download versions were released as v.1.05.)

SunAge was released last week in several European countries including the UK, Italy, Scandinavia and online at various direct download websites. In North-America, Germany, France and Spain SunAge will be released by the end of January 2008.

SunAge is the modern day answer for RTS fans who want the best possible overview of their troops, while trying to outsmart opponents in frantic battles where strategy and tactics are more important than ever. If you have been into real-time strategy games for a while, this will bring back the good old days !

Key upgrades in this version 1.05 include:
• A fix for the ‘Load game bug’ where the in-game menu would disappear;
• Added connection-loss handling;
• Added auto refresh of save games-list;
• Multi player chat messages for defeat, victory etc.;
• CTRL+0-9 / 0-9 grouping glitch.

The complete list of new features included in the upgrade, is available at the Lighthouse forums as well as on www.sunage-the-game.com.

To download the patch v1.05 (file size: 3 MB) visit: www.lighthouse-interactive.com.

CHARTTRACK UK WEEKLY CHARTS

All formats
(Full price) Week ending 1 December 2007


1 NEED FOR SPEED: PROSTREET ELECTRONIC ARTS
2 THE SIMPSONS GAME ELECTRONIC ARTS
3 FIFA 08 ELECTRONIC ARTS
4 CALL OF DUTY 4: MODERN WARFARE ACTIVISION
5 ASSASSIN'S CREED UBISOFT
6 MARIO & SONIC AT THE OLYMPIC GAMES SEGA
7 WWE SMACKDOWN VS RAW 2008 THQ
8 PRO EVOLUTION SOCCER 2008 KONAMI
9 GUITAR HERO III: LEGENDS OF ROCK ACTIVISION
10 SUPER MARIO GALAXY NINTENDO
11 KANE & LYNCH: DEAD MEN EIDOS
12 RATATOUILLE THQ
13 LEGO STAR WARS: THE COMPLETE SAGA LUCASARTS
14 THE SIMS 2: CASTAWAY ELECTRONIC ARTS
15 HALO 3 MICROSOFT5
16 MASS EFFECT MICROSOFT
17 MYSIMS ELECTRONIC ARTS
18 NEW SUPER MARIO BROS. NINTENDO
19 TIGER WOODS PGA TOUR 08 ELECTRONIC ARTS
20 MARIO PARTY 8 NINTENDO

Top Films To Arrive In Xbox 360

Movies such as 300, Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, The Good German and much more available to download

Following the huge success of Xbox LIVE Marketplace Video Store in the US, where it has changed the way Xbox 360 owners view and enjoy video, Microsoft today announced that Xbox LIVE Marketplace Video Store will open for business in the UK on 11th December.

Xbox 360 owners will be able to rent full-length films such as 300, The Good German, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles from as little as 250 Microsoft Points (*ERP £2) for Standard Definition movies and from 380 Microsoft Points (*ERP £3.20 [1]) for High Definition movies. This is in addition to over 100 music videos currently available to download from partners Ministry of Sound, Sony BMG, PIAS and Vid Zone.

With this launch, Xbox LIVE Marketplace becomes the first video on demand service to be available in six countries – US, Canada, UK, Ireland, France and Germany - and cements its place as the worldwide leader in online distribution of high-definition gaming and entertainment content.

Robin Truchy, Director of Xbox LIVE for Europe, Microsoft Entertainment and Devices Division, commented: “Xbox Live Marketplace Video Store in Europe is all about adding to the ever-expanding number of entertainment choices that our consumers have on their Xbox 360. We want to give them the entertainment they want, in the format they want, when they want it and at an affordable price. We were already offering HD games, HD music videos and the option to enjoy HD-DVD format films, now we are offering HD movies to download and rent as well. This is very exciting for us and the consumer.”

“Providing consumers with more choices and improving the movie experience at home is at the heart of Warner Bros. Digital Distribution’s strategy and we’re delighted to support Xbox Live for the European launch of their Video On Demand service” said Marc Gareton, Warner Bros. Digital Distribution Senior Vice President International.” Microsoft has built a very successful platform, in both Standard Definition and High Definition, and we are happy to make it a home for our movies.”

Arash Amel, Senior Analyst, Head of Broadband Media, Screen Digest, commented: “As Hollywood turns its attention towards selling digital copies of its blockbuster movies, the delivery of movie content over the open internet has become a key battleground for a broad range of service providers. Screen Digest predicts that the total European movie download market will be worth €350m by 2012, up from €17m in 2007[2]. The Xbox LIVE Marketplace Video Store, as the first multi-territory hardware-based online movie delivery service in Europe, is expected to be a European market leader for movie downloads. Consumers in both the US and Europe have already made it abundantly clear that they are reluctant to watch two-hour long films on their PC, instead preferring to view them on personal devices or most preferably devices that can provide a link to their large-screen living room TVs and home entertainment systems.”

Xbox 360 gamers in the launch countries can access Xbox Live Marketplace Video Store with either an Xbox Live Silver or Gold membership and a broadband connection. More information about the content available on Xbox LIVE Marketplace Video Store can be found at: www.xbox.com

Examples of Launch Titles on Xbox LIVE Marketplace Video Store:

UK/Ireland
300
HARRY POTTER AND THE PHILOSOPHER’S STONE
HARRY POTTER AND THE CHAMBER OF SECRETS
ZODIAC
MATRIX, THE
MATRIX REVOLUTIONS, THE
MATRIX RELOADED, THE
OCEAN'S ELEVEN
PERFECT STORM, THE
SWORDFISH
THREE KINGS
TRAINING DAY
FUGITIVE, THE
RISKY BUSINESS
SPACE COWBOYS
EYES WIDE SHUT
ANALYZE THIS
DEMOLITION MAN
ERASER
EXECUTIVE DECISION
LETHAL WEAPON 3
LETHAL WEAPON 4
LOONEY TUNES: BACK IN ACTION
MARS ATTACKS!
CLASH OF THE TITANS
SUPERMAN III
DEAD CALM

FIP Publishing licenses Speedball 2 – Tournament to additional territories

Speedball rolls around the world

FIP Publishing licenses Speedball 2 – Tournament to additional territories

After the UK, France, Spain and Benelux, FIP Publishing has now also licensed Speedball 2 - Tournament to Scandinavia, the CIS, South Africa, Australia, Poland, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi-Arabia and Qatar. All regional distributors will publish the retail version of the PC action-sports-game in the first quarter of 2008. Wendros AB brings Speedball 2 - Tournament to Sweden, Norway, Finland and Denmark. The Russian distributor Akella is releasing the box version in the CIS-States. QV Software has sealed the rights for Australia and Nicolas Games brings the futuristic mixture of American Football and Rugby to the Polish market. Pluto Gt publishes the game in the mentioned Arabian countries. A few weeks ago, Ascaron had already secured the license for the box release in the UK market. Nobilis Publishing will release Speedball 2 – Tournament in France, Spain and the Benelux. Further deals for the United States and Asia are in progress. “After the current publication in Germany we will send Speedball 2 – Tournament around the world with strong partners in early 2008”, International Sales Manager Julien Renzaho from FIP Publishing comments on the signed licensing agreements.

Speedball 2 – Tournament
In 2326, rival gangs form an ultra-violent action-sports league called Speedball to settle their deadly disputes. Two teams face each other in bloody battles for a steel ball. Nine on nine – in an all-out rush on the opponent’s goal; almost any malicious move is permitted. The highly anticipated sequel to the Amiga classic for the PC platform transforms the futuristic game setting with state-of-the-art technology into a high-speed online sports spectacle. Offering international leagues, a worldwide ranking system and a matchmaking function, Speedball 2 - Tournament pulls all registers of modern multiplayer gaming action. Fully customisable male, female and cyborg characters, dynamic sports battles, and a unique online community platform with online player and clan profiles will thrill sports simulation enthusiasts, action fans, and e-sports experts likewise.

For the production of Speedball 2 - Tournament, developer Kylotonn has assembled a fresh team of experienced game designers and programmers. With photo-realistic 3D models, breathtaking animations and futuristic arenas for Speedball 2 - Tournament, the French development team, already renowned for the “Bet on Soldier” trilogy, heads for a stunning comeback. As eminent advisor and co-producer, Mike Montgomery from the legendary Bitmap Brothers is supervising the overall development of Speedball 2 - Tournament. Since 1987, when he founded The Bitmap Brothers, Montgomery has been behind the legendary original Speedball, as well as classics like Xenon Megablast, The Chaos Engine, Gods, Cadaver, Magic Pockets and Z.

The The Bitmap Brothers logo is a registered trade mark of The Bitmap Brothers.
Speedball is a registered trade mark and copyright of The Bitmap Brothers.

Asda Story Returns for Open Beta

"Maximizing Skill Qualities, Open Beta Service Dec. 6th."

'Soulmates vs. Solos vs. Parties'

Seoul, Korea - December 4, 2007 - Soulmates are ready again to enhance Party system. Parties are ready to kill monsters. Solos are ready to be unique and lead Asda Story. No Twins in the game to get down with.

Huge difference from CBT was developed by MaxOn Soft Corp.
There are Specified Skills for all of the characters
Collecting Unique Optional Item Sets
New 5 Maps with New Goals
Enchanting all Armories and Sowels
Faster Transportation
Digging.

For Open Beta Service, we arranged data to specify one's characteristics among different jobs. There will be no changes in the base settings, but in long term, we adjusted to bring up characters' potential skills 100%. Items with options were added that users can find many different sets of unique items with purposes. For example, there will be healers costume set which will provide extra healing points to increase healing. Users can collect them and use them when needed. For more details and images, you can find out at our website http://asda.gamengame.com.

Among each job, Asda Story is created to play as a solo. We also tried to distinguish most from each jobs' characteristics. In addition to solo playing you can play the game as a party play, we wanted users to play as a party system with buffs, sharing, healing, and finishing blow to have extra effects than playing solo. For Open Beta Test, we are arranging data to specify one's characteristics among different jobs. There will be no changes in the base settings, but in long term, we would like to bring up characters' potential skills 100%. For example, one hand warriors will have some changing in their Skill trees. Now you can customize your own Characters

For more excitement at Open Beta Test, We are going to add extra 5 maps. Each map will have stronger boss monsters. For now, I would like to explain a few unique elite field maps. Elite field maps are like regular Alpen, Rain River, and Silaris, however users can feel the intensiveness of Instance Dungeons like Queen's Palace and Castle of Chess. The difference from regular field is that maps are not a wide open type. Like Instance Dungeon, roads are connected like a maze. Front view and back view are distinguished from each other to feel like actually moving forward. Monsters are strong that they are hard to be taken out by solo. There should be 3 or 4 players in a party to kill the monsters. (Also, there will be a map for solo playing called Sun Beach added to it like the map, Conquest.)

Sweet 3D MMORPG Asda Story will start its Open Beta on 6h of December, 2007. Based on a colorful, bright, and cheerful world, it is an easy game where monsters with powerful individualities. Lots of female users would be treated awesome and can have great tastes of this comfortable game easily.

Asda Story is very appealing to female users because of unique Soulmate System. We had lots of female users in CBT, and all of them are coming back to play OBT of Asda Story. Among Soulmates, healing, summoning, resurrecting, sharing attack or defense points were most popular. No girls were playing alone. This is very casual game to satisfy both sexes.

Casual users can be satisfied from constructing special and great skill trees or hard core users can be satisfied from expanding limitless item slots to create their own characters with various skills. Come and play Asda Story which can provide lots freedom in the game on 6th of December, 2007.

Bounty Bay Online - Not one, not two, but twenty - two new skills on offer in upcoming FREE add-on

All 22 new Skills Revealed

'Storm Island' is waiting, full of adventure and danger – however, BBO's virtual heroes are ready for the challenge. In the upcoming free add-on for Bounty Bay Online there are 22 new sub-skills, enabling the gamer to customise the character to one's individual gaming style. For example, "regeneration" raises the healing rate 25 % per level. Online merchants can increase the capacity of their ship with "Fishing Training", and "Alchemist spirit" raises the amount of energy available.

An overview of the new sub-skills can be found here: http://bbo.yusho.de/en/Updates/U_Skills/. "Storm Island" will be online 6th December 2007.

Content and new features of the "Storm Island"-add-on:

- Level cap raised from 100 to 120

- 21 new special abilities (alchemy, fishing, muscular power, etc.)

- A new island to discover and explore

- New, extensive quests in group instance areas

- Fresh enemies, monsters, weapons, extras, armour, etc.


Bounty Bay Online puts gamers in the Age of Discovery, beginning in the early part of the 15th century. Gamers are able to build their own online destiny, whether they choose to be a merchant, adventurer, fisherman or pirate. Besides Europe, the continents of Africa and Asia also wait to be explored by Bounty Bay players. More info: www.bountybayonline.com

Angels Online Closed Beta Test Launched

Angels Online Closed Beta Test Launched

The long-awaited Closed Beta Test for Angels Online (http://ao.igg.com) has begun since 00:00 EST Dec 3, 2007!

At that time players can visit http://ao.igg.com/download/download.php to download the client. If you have an IGG account, you can activate Angels Online on the IGG website to start your adventure in Eden.

Angels Online is a 2D MMORPG with distinctive game systems including engrossing storylines, a natural and cute graphic style, liberal character growth, fierce fighting and harmonious communities. A cheerful experience with amazing scenes, partners, lovely rides and pets is waiting for players in Angels Online.

For more information visit the official Angels Online Website: http://ao.igg.com

Gears of War video game for Windows at iGames with $3,000 Tournament

Exclusive Competition, Saturday and Sunday, December 15-16, to Celebrate Windows Version of Blockbuster Xbox 360 Title which Has Sold Over 4 Million Copies to Date

Cash Prizes for the Best Gamers, PLUS Special Giveaways

WHAT:

Leading game center organization iGames to host a special online tournament to celebrate the release of “Gears of War” for Windows, featuring five new campaigns, new multiplayer modes and full Games for Windows – LIVE support for online multiplayer gameplay sessions.

WHEN & WHERE:

December 15-16 online and at 16 select iGames centers

PRIZES + FREE STUFF:

The tournament is a 2-v-2 competition offering $3,000 in CASH prizes as well as giveaways for all Game Center participants. CEVO is providing additional promotional support.

Competitors will be able to compete from any of the Official 16 Game Centers, or from anywhere else over the Internet. Only players competing from Official Game Centers will receive the participation giveaways.

Free Stuff:

Up to 10 players (5 teams) per Game Center will each receive, simply for participating:

1 x Games for Windows T-Shirt (L or XL)
1 x Gears of War Custom Limited-Edition T-Shirt (L or XL)
1 x Three Month LIVE Gold Kit with Headset

Prize Distribution:

1st: $750 (Team Total)
2nd: $500
3rd: $350
4th: $250
5th-6th: $150
7th-8th: $125
9th-16th: $75

ABOUT THE GAME:

Gears of War, a Games for Windows title, features the amazing tactical action and multiplayer excitement found in the critically acclaimed Gears of War for the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system that sold more than 4 million units, and a variety of all-new content, including three new multiplayer maps, a new multiplayer game type, Game Editor, five new campaign chapters and DirectX 10 support.

Gears of War thrusts gamers into a deep and harrowing story of humankind's epic battle for survival against the Locust Horde, a nightmarish race of creatures that surface from the bowels of the planet.

With Gears of War, Epic Games returns gamers to the massively scoped worlds, memorable characters, cooperative gameplay and hyper-realistic combat that gamers have come to expect from the franchise, plus a few new surprises.

Features:

• Frag-filled new content. Gears of War will feature locations that are unique to the franchise and the genre. Players will encounter all their favorite foes from the Xbox 360 version; however, these intense encounters will take place in some new environments and allow players to manipulate the new game modes and technology found only in the Games for Windows title. Boasting three new multiplayer maps, a new multiplayer game type, Game Editor, five new campaign chapters and DirectX 10 support, Gears of War, will challenge and push the limits of the PC gaming experience and provide an unparalleled visual presentation.

• Engaging and disturbing cinematic story. Movie-like cut scenes, cinematic camera moves and in-game storytelling bring the brutal, emotionally charged narrative to life. Gamers control Marcus Fenix and his fire team as they pit advanced technology against the overwhelming and horrific Locust Horde.

• Unmatched online gaming. Gears of War will tap into the power of Games for Windows — LIVE to deliver online matchmaking for its Gold account members. The service will enable gamers around the world to connect via their PCs, allowing players to experience individualized matchmaking, view player statistics, earn player Achievements, customize games and create personalized profiles.

• New Game Editor. The game will also feature the all-new Game Editor, guaranteeing new user-generated content in the future. The Gears of War community will be able to tap its endless creative potential to develop an unlimited number of user-created levels through complete access to the Unreal Editor. Using the new engine, players can now import custom artwork into the engine, create particle systems, scripted encounters, cinematics and more.

• Astounding visuals in next-generation gaming. Gears of War ushers in the next generation with incredible visuals, pushing DirectX 10 visual designs and bringing out the smallest details in the largest battle. Gamers experience a rich, dynamic world with a supreme level of detail. Characters come to life with unbelievable model quality and a physics-integrated animation system that has them truly reacting intelligently to events unfolding around them.

• Hyper-realistic and intense combat. In Gears of War the battlefield is a lethal place — to foolishly stand out in the open is to invite an untimely demise. To survive, gamers must employ strategy, take cover using the interactive and dynamic environments, and suppress the enemy with blind fire, using their weapons and teammates to outwit and outfight their terrifying enemies.

Gears of War for Windows is rated “M” for “Mature” with descriptors Blood and Gore, Mild Language, Violence, by the ESRB and comes with a MSRP of $49.99. For more information about the title, visit: http://www.gearsofwar.com.

Saga Beta 2 Launch Set For December 11th

Saga, a new Massively-Multiplayer Online Real-Time Strategy (MMORTS) game from Silverlode Interactive announces December 11th for its final Beta phase.

Silverlode Interactive today locked in December 11th as the start of their final Beta. Players who joined in the Phase 1 Beta test will be the first to gain entry; others will be admitted on a first-come first-served basis. In addition, Silverlode Interactive is working with game and hobby shops across the U.S. and game review websites worldwide to distribute Beta keys good for priority entry into Beta.

Saga Beta 2 will release many anxiously awaited features over the course of the phase.

Here’s a few: The initial screens and user interface have been improved and completely rebuilt in an easy and intuitive format. A brand new storyline-based quest system has been added that includes epic boss battles for multiplayer strategy. The chat system has been renovated to enhance trading and guild communication. A tournament system will be introduced later in Beta 2 that allows players to win products as well as increase their ranking. In addition, Saga received a major graphics overhaul making the visuals spectacular.

Silverlode Interactive is distributing preferred Beta keys to local gaming stores across America.

Players are currently invited to sign up at www.playsaga.com/signup_beta.php. Visit the Saga main page www.playsaga.com and the Saga forums for updates and latest reviews as well as a video of Saga game-play footage coming later this week.

Forge of Freedom Anniversary Extravaganza! Major Update, New Video and Holiday Sale!

Update here

Matrix Games (www.matrixgames.com) and Western Civilization Software (www.west-civ.com) are pleased to announce a special anniversary event for Forge of Freedom: The American Civil War 1861-1865. This event, coming one year after Forge of Freedom was initially released, includes another major free update with many improvements to the game, a new video to showcase Forge of Freedom as it is now after a year of post-release development and a 25% discount on new purchases of Forge of Freedom as part of the Matrix Games Holiday Sale.

Major New v1.10.10 Update!
Since the original release, the development team has been listening carefully to customer feedback and improving all areas of the game to improve historicity and gameplay. Several significant updates have been the result and this latest fine tunes the historical accuracy and game balance as close to perfection as is possible while also improving the already excellent strategic and tactical AI even further. The dozens of improvements range from better balance between camps, population and replacements to more realistic diplomatic percentages, two siege phases instead of one, improved scenario orders of battle and more realistic detailed battle frontage rules. Quick battle resolution was also carefully adjusted to bring into better balance the effects of forts and terrain.

In addition, we now have over 250 brief historical biographies included in the game for the many generals on both sides, thanks to the diligent work of many biographers. One of the improvements in the orders of battle includes the ability to now have generals start already assigned to their historical divisions right from the first turn of a scenario, minimizing first turn reorganization chores.

New Showcase Video!
A new 4+ minute high quality video released as part of this anniversary event walks gamers through the scope and detail of Forge of Freedom, showcasing the incredible ability of this game to re-create the American Civil War and everything that still fascinates us to this day about this terrible conflict where brother fought against brother. We encourage everyone who has not considered Forge of Freedom to give this video a look; you might be surprised just how much it has to offer!

Holiday Sale!
For the first time since it was released, as part of the Matrix Games Holiday Sale, Forge of Freedom is currently available direct from the Matrix Games Online Store at a 25% discount off the regular price through the entire holiday season. See the Matrix Games website for more details. The version now available for download is fully updated to the latest 1.10.10. There has never been a better time to try this grand strategy masterpiece.

David Heath, Director of Operations at Matrix Games, said “Forge of Freedom is an outstanding game and is a remarkably realistic simulation of the American Civil War. Western Civilization Software has once again elevated this title to a new level. If you have an interest in the American Civil War, you owe it to yourself to give this game a try. The new video and sale should make that decision even easier!”

Eric Babe, Lead Developer at Western Civilization Software, stated, “We’re very proud of how far Forge of Freedom has come since its original release one year ago. Virtually every aspect of the game has been improved in response to player feedback. We hope everyone enjoys the new upgraded Forge of Freedom as much as we enjoyed working on it.”

More than seven-score years have passed since the start of this conflict that pitted state against state, brother against brother and broke the chains of slavery. Forge of Freedom gives you a chance to relive history from either side in a work of grand strategy.

As the leader of the Union or the Confederacy, you will be faced with historical decisions on the military, economic and diplomatic strategies to pursue. The diplomatic and economic systems have been streamlined and improved since Crown of Glory to be more user-friendly and also suited to the period. Rather than multiple minor nations, each state has its own Governor and they will make demands on you and shift their attitudes according to events. In addition, you will have to manage diplomacy with the European powers to try to sway them towards or against intervention. Over 1,000 historical generals are included along with an option to know their abilities ahead of time or have to find out the hard way, as happened historically. Railroads, rivers and cities all play important roles, as do elections which occur at both state and national levels. Every effort has been made to bring you as thorough a simulation of the American Civil War as is possible, from 1861 to 1865, from the skirmishes and raids in the West to the pitched battles in the East and the Naval blockade.


Game Features:

• The American Civil War, 1861-1865


• Grand Strategy combined with Detailed Tactical Battles


• Highly customizable gameplay via dozens of in-game options


• Military, Diplomatic and Economic Decisions


• Research Logistics, Tactics, Weaponry and other areas


• Quick, Instant or Detailed Resolution of Battles


• Detailed Combat supports Historical Leaders, Unit Morale, Diverse Unit Types, Command and Control, Weather, Smoke, Reinforcements, and more!


• Streamlined Economics include Money, Labor, Horses, Iron, Guns and Railroads


• Naval and Land Combat, including Sieges, Raiders, Partisans, Plundering, Interceptions, Fleet Combat, Port Attacks and Blockades


• National Will and a historical Victory Point system


• Computer Opponent plays either side


• Diplomacy with Britain, France and Europe for trade and possible military intervention


• Weather, Logistics, Fog of War


• Play against the AI, via PBEM, LAN or hotseat


• Standard Campaign from 1861-1865 as well three other historical scenarios with starting dates from July, 1861 to November, 1861, each balanced for a different play style.

For more information, check the main Matrix Games page at www.matrixgames.com and the Western Civilization Software website at www.west-civ.com.

The v1.10.10 Update is a Comprehensive Update which can be applied to all previous versions of Forge of Freedom. It can be downloaded from the Matrix Games Latest Downloads section at http://www.matrixgames.com/games/latestfiles.asp

The Biggest Loser video game Bringing Hit TV to your PC

King.com Gets Fit With The Biggest Loser

World's Largest Skill Game Site Continues Streak of Bringing Hit TV Properties to Videogames

LOS ANGELES: December 4, 2007 – King.com (www.king.com), the world’s largest skill games site, today announced a skill game version of NBC’s hit television show, “The Biggest Loser.” Currently in its fourth season on NBC, the show challenges and encourages overweight contestants to shed pounds in a safe and recommended manner through comprehensive diet and exercise as they compete for a grand prize of $250,000. This is King.com’s fourth online skill game based on a hit television show.

“The ‘Biggest Loser’ game extends the television experience for viewers who like to interact,” said Toby Rowland, co-Founder and co-CEO of King.com. “For any show fan, the ‘Biggest Loser’ game provides a platform to have fun and test their skills at making the right dietary choices and staying in shape.”

King is the exclusive provider of skill games for brands such as American Idol, Deal or No Deal, and 1 vs. 100 and also is the exclusive provider of skill games for Yahoo’s entertainment properties. In addition to games and entertainment, King.com provides a social forum where players are able to interact and form friendships with people from all over the world.

“The success of the Biggest Loser Club, books, and workout DVDs has shown us how the viewers of the show like to interact beyond merely watching the show," said executive producer, Mark Koops. "Our show appeals to a wide range of individuals and challenges them to eat better and workout. This partnership with King.com provides another innovative, exciting, and interactive opportunity.”

Players can register for the Biggest Loser at King.com. The aim of the game is to get in shape! Players must stay off the pizza, hamburgers and candy, and eat carrots, lettuce and apples instead. Players are given special items to help them in the battle of the bulge, but, as in everyday life, there are also many temptations that are hindrances to their goal weight. Players who lose enough weight are rewarded with a new body and a terrific score!

About King
Launched in 2004, King.com is the world’s largest skill games site with 80 million games played in the month of January 2007. King offers more than 60 games, and is available in 9 languages and seven currencies. King is the exclusive provider of skill games for TV brands such as American Idol, Deal or No Deal, The Biggest Loser, and 1 vs. 100. King is incorporated in the state of Delaware and the company has offices in Los Angeles, London (UK), Hamburg (Germany), Rome (Italy) and Stockholm (Sweden). King.com is a founder member of ISGA (North American Interactive Skill Games Association). ISGA can be found at http://www.onskill.org.

About The Biggest Loser
The first reality series where everybody "loses," "The Biggest Loser" offers severely overweight participants the opportunity to undergo a radical physical makeover without any kind of surgery. The unscripted and life-altering one-hour reality series gathers contestants from across the country to face real-life temptations, while being provided with approved weight-loss skills and resources in an effort to help them transform their bodies, health - and ultimately - their lives. The series has become a worldwide hit airing in over 35 territories and 15 countries. It has also produced a New York Times best-selling book and a burgeoning online lifestyle club www.biggestloserclub.com. "The Biggest Loser" is a production of Reveille LLC, 25/7 Productions and 3 Ball Productions. Ben Silverman (NBC's "The Office," "Ugly Betty"), Dave Broome ("Tsunami Aid: A Concert of Hope," "Radio Music Awards"), JD Roth ("Unanimous," "Beauty and the Geek"), Todd A. Nelson ("Unanimous," "Beauty and the Geek") and Mark Koops ("Blow Out," "The Restaurant") serve as executive producers.

The Great Tree PC game, a grown-up story of good and evil

Prepare to fly into a world rich with story and magic in The Great Tree

Reflexive Entertainment is proud to announce its 15th PC game The Great Tree, a grown-up story of good and evil.

Reflexive Entertainment is proud to announce The Great Tree, a grown-up story of good and evil that puts the survival of an enchanted world into your hands. As a chosen fairy you will travel to many spellbinding locations, avoiding dangerous creatures and using wondrous magic to collect the pollen that can save The Great Tree...and your people.

Illustrated by the same award-winning artist behind Wik: Fable of Souls, The Great Tree takes gamers into a new realm, immersing them in a conflict for survival. With a story told through voice acting knitted together with beautiful art into moving micro movies, the faeries' plight has been lovingly crafted to create a unique experience for gamers both young and old.

Playing as a small fairy thrust into a deadly conflict, players set out on a mission to save The Great Tree, using special abilities and magic, when needed, to elude enemies, collect pollen and rescue the entranced Swee. Throughout the journey innovative and never before dreamed of enemies, such as the 'Death Toad' and 'Slumbering Fungus' will confront and amaze players. As play progresses, star points will be earned, which can be used to improve character speed, strength, magic, and health. In addition, new wings, each with unique special abilities, will become available, giving players tremendous ability to customize their approach to game play.

Featuring amazing locations, surprising enemies, and 100 wondrous levels, The Great Tree will provide an amazing gaming experience, which feels akin to an epic film, when it is released on December 19th.

XBox Brain Challenge for Xbox LIVE Arcade

Gameloft®, a leading publisher and developer of video games for mobile phones, today announced that it is bringing its tremendously popular Brain Challenge game to the Xbox LIVE® Arcade for the Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system from Microsoft. Xbox LIVE® Arcade is the premier destination for digitally distributed, high-definition original and classic games.

“The tremendous growth of mass-market, casual games coupled with the massive consumer acceptance of gaming platforms such as Xbox LIVE Arcade, has opened up a significant opportunity for Gameloft,” said Gonzague de Vallois, senior vice president of Publishing, Gameloft. “Xbox LIVE Arcade is the perfect vehicle for us to expand our presence with players of all types.”

“We at Microsoft are excited at the prospect of expanding our gaming catalogue to include one of Gameloft’s best sellers,” said Jeremy Wacksman, Product Manager of Xbox LIVE Marketing. “Gameloft’s reputation and standard of excellence in the casual gaming space precedes them and Brain Challenge is a welcome addition to Xbox LIVE Arcade.”

Released on mobile carrier decks in 2006, Brain Challenge has achieved sales of 1.5 million units to date, and continues to be ranked in the top downloads on carrier decks more than a year after initial release. The sales success is further driven by the launch of Brain Challenge vol. 2 Stress Management which complements the original game.

Brain Challenge will be available to challenge the skill and intellect of players on Xbox LIVE Arcade in early 2008. Brain Challenge boosts brain activity and helps players develop stress-management skills thanks to a wide variety of games. A personal coach helps players develop their abilities in several areas of cognitive function, including logic, math, memory and visual thinking, in a fun and entertaining way.

In addition to Xbox Live Arcade, Brain Challenge will soon be available on iPod, Nintendo DS and PC. This will be the first ever multi-platform launch of a casual brand from a mobile game publisher. Each game will be specially formatted and adapted to complement each unique platform to ensure the best consumer experience.

The mobile game version is available now across most U.S. carriers.

Operation: Omega Dawn A Warhawk Booster Pack

Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. (SCEA)
Developer: Incognito Entertainment
Platform: Exclusively on PLAYSTATION®3 (PS3™) via PLAYSTATION®Network
Genre: Multiplayer Combat
Rating: “T” for Teen
Price: $7.99

The heart-pounding, gut-wrenching thrill of Warhawk will get even more intense this December with Operation: Omega Dawn, Warhawk’s first downloadable Booster pack. Developed by Incognito Entertainment, the highly-anticipated add-on pack will redefine team tactics in Warhawk and introduce a host of new strategic elements. Featuring an entirely new battlefield, "Omega Factory," in which Eucadians and Chenovans are fighting for control, Operation: Omega Dawn includes six map configurations where warhawks can take flight through the night skies of an isolated factory world. Adding to the intensity, players can board the KT-424 Combat Dropship – a supreme vehicle that can transport up to seven troopers and a ground vehicle at one time, allowing for massive invasions on enemy territories. The Dropship act as a multiplayer Boss character, similar to those found in single player games, and creates memorable moments where seven players are operating in smooth coordination. Available exclusively for download at the PLAYSTATION®Store, Operation: Omega Dawn adds new layer of strategy and depth to the fast-paced, adrenaline-pumping gameplay experienced in Warhawk.

KEY FEATURES

• Invade Enemy Territories with the PMC-Dropship – Utilizing the tactical and physical capabilities of the new KT-424 Combat Dropship, players can swarm into enemy territories with a vengeance and dominate alongside their clan. Both an aircraft and a ground vehicle, the Dropship is the ultimate destructive weapon for massive assaults. Lined with powerful turrets for transported soldiers, the Dropship can carry up to seven troops and ground vehicles at one time.

• Dominate Opponents on a Brand New Battleground – Enter at your own risk into the new, night-time battlefield for Warhawk, Omega Factory. The largest map to date, the new environment leads troopers into an eerily dark factory world that includes six battlefield layouts and supports all of your favorite game modes from the original game.

• More Vertical Gameplay – Players’ fighting skills will be put to the ultimate test as the new map features more vertical gameplay, allowing for intense aerial combat via warhawks and the Dropship. The new map features environments that can only be accessed by airborne deployment such as raised platforms and rooftops of enormous war factories.

• Bonus Layouts for the Dropship – Experience total domination with bonus layouts that integrate the new KT-424 Combat Dropship into the 5 largest layouts from the core game for added replay value.

Wii-kly Update: Three New Classic Games Added To Wii Shop Channel

Sometimes the Wii-kly Updates have a nice, unifying them. Sometimes they don't. This week we scoured the recesses of the classic games vault to come up with some interesting, if unrelated, gems. You can fight mechanized forces, battle with a bunch of fighters in the afterlife or play the role of a heroic regal bug. Like we said: Sometimes they don't.

Three new classic games go live at 9 a.m. Pacific time. Nintendo adds new games to the Wii™ Shop Channel every Monday. Wii™ owners with a high-speed Internet connection can redeem Wii Points™ to download the games. Wii Points can be purchased in the Wii Shop Channel or at retail outlets. This week's new games are:

ZANAC (NES®, 1 player, rated E for Everyone - Mild Fantasy Violence, 500 Wii Points): ZANAC is a vertically scrolling shoot-'em-up game that was released in November 1986. Take control of the state-of-the-art fighter, ZANAC, with the objective of destroying the bases of the mechanized enemy forces. Use your full array of regular weapons as well as eight special weapons to clear the 12 intense areas of the game. Be careful, though, as the game changes the degree of difficulty in real time based on how well you play. This ensures that it feels like you're experiencing a new game every time you play.

Eternal Champions™ (Sega Genesis, 1-2 players, rated T for Teen - Animated Blood, Animated Violence, 800 Wii Points): This 2-D fighting game introduces a cast of different characters that met untimely deaths in their lives on Earth. Now they have been given a chance to compete against each other, with the winner taking on the Eternal Champion, the ultimate fighter in the universe. The reward for defeating the Eternal Champion is a return to Earth for the opportunity to avenge death and restore balance to the universe. Choose from nine unique characters with a variety of fighting styles, and bring your best moves to defeat all comers in your quest to topple the Eternal Champion.

The Dynastic Hero (TurboGrafx16 CD-ROM, 1 player, rated E for Everyone - Comic Mischief, 800 Wii Points): The Dynastic Hero is an action RPG featuring a cast of insect characters. The story begins with the invasion of their peaceful homeland of Tarron by the evil Drilkor Empire. Rushing to the insects' aid is Dyna, the prince of Beetras. Take control of Dyna as he battles through action-filled stages. Equip weapons and items to vanquish the relentless foes, and acquire special items that enable you to brave the journey across the perilous desert or open sea. But it's not just all action. Correctly answer multiple-choice quizzes, and play the ocarina to find the right melody to open doors. Plus, there are countless traps and other puzzles packed into this fun game to keep you entertained and ensure you continue coming back for more.

For more information about Wii, please visit wii.com.