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Saturday, May 31, 2008

The Top 10 Worst PlayStation Ads We've Seen

Over the past few years, Sony's controversial attempts at viral marketing for the PlayStation brand were not well-received by the general public. 

The company had been criticized on numerous occasions for various failed ad campaigns. 

Campaigns didn't just fail to hit their target markets, but more importantly had an adverse effect leaving many upset

read more | digg story

Most Destructive Weapon in FPS history!


The BFRAG lays down unrelenting devastation upon your enemy. Just keep the batteries fresh.

read more | digg story

StarCraft: 7 Years in 7 Minutes


This video goes through the history of StarCraft and the changes it went through during its 7 years of life. A great walk down memory lane for old school StarCraft players!

read more | digg story

Friday, May 30, 2008

Elitexc fighter and American Gladiator Gina Carano to appear in Command & Conquer Red Alert 3


She has left opponents lying defeated in the cages of EliteXC mixed martial arts competitions and would-be contenders gasping for air throughout Gladiator Arena in American Gladiators. And now America’s “Crush” is ready to lay waste to the battlefields in Command & Conquer Red Alert 3.


Electronic Arts announced today that rising star and undefeated EliteXC MMA fighter Gina Carano will be starring as Natasha, a deadly Soviet commando, in Red Alert 3, one of the most anticipated strategy games of the year coming to the PC and Xbox 360 this holiday season. Carano will not only appear in person and in high-definition as Natasha as part of Red Alert 3’s live-action movies, but will also be featured digitally as a playable unit in the game.

“The last year has been such a whirlwind for me, from everything that’s happening with EliteXC this weekend to American Gladiators and now with EA and Red Alert 3,” said Carano. “Natasha is such a cool, powerful character, her actions definitely speak louder than her words which is something I definitely identify with. I can’t wait to see how everything turns out and I hope all of the gamers out there have a great time wreaking havoc as me.”

Carano can be seen tomorrow night headlining the undercard on CBS during EliteXC’s “Saturday Night Fights”, the first MMA card to air on broadcast network television and every Monday night on NBC slamming would-be contenders as “Crush” on NBC’s popular American Gladiators series. Carano joins a prestigious list of stars that have crossed over to appear in the Command & Conquer franchise’s trademark live-action video movies, including: James Earl Jones (Star Wars), Josh Holloway (Lost), Billy Dee Williams (Star Wars), Michael Biehn (The Terminator, Aliens), Natasha Henstridge (Species), Tricia Helfer (Battlestar Galactica), Jennifer Morrison (House), and Michael Ironside (Top Gun).



Hear more from Carano on her upcoming fight and her first foray into the world of video games in Red Alert 3 in this month’s episode of BattleCast PrimeTime on Command & Conquer TV, debuting today at noon PDT at www.commandandconquer.com, the home of everything C&C. And stay tuned for more announcements surrounding the star-studded cast of Command & Conquer: Red Alert 3 this summer.

London Traffic Grinds To A Halt As Supercar Owners Rush To Buy Race Driver - GRID


Launch of cutting-edge racing game from Codemasters Studios sees hardcore fans dash to zavvi's Oxford Street store to buy their copy.
Six deluxe supercars drew the attention of huge crowds on a packed London street this morning as they screeched to a halt outside zavvi’s Oxford Street store to pick up a copy of the critically-acclaimed racing video game, Race Driver: GRID from Codemasters. The six professional drivers in their full racing garb brought traffic to a standstill as they leapt out of their supercars just so that they could grab a copy of the game on launch day, despite the risk of their cars being towed away.

Pushing past the queues, the race drivers picked up a copy of Codemasters’ Race Driver: GRID and either an Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft or PLAYSTATION 3 computer entertainment system to play it on. Their motivation was to experience for themselves what critics have been dubbing the most realistic racing experience yet seen in a video game. With game and console in hand, the mysterious race drivers briefly stopped for photographs with the stunned crowds gathered around their vehicles before jumping back into their supercars and roaring off down Tottenham Court Road.

The six supercars that drew the crowds were an Aston Martin DB9 Volante, Aston Martin DB9 Coupe, Aston Martin V8 Vantage, Mercedes-Benz SLK55AMG, Range Rover Sport HST and Bentley Continental GT – collectively worth nearly £550,000.

This was just the first stage of the launch activities for Race Driver: GRID at zavvi’s Oxford Street store, which was also the venue for the grand final of the European Fastest Lap Challenge that has seen legions of gamers fiercely competing to set their best time on Spain’s Jarama circuit. The ultimate prize for the winner of the competition was a brand new BMW 3 Series car, worth almost £30,000.

Race Driver - GRID is released today, 30th May (Europe/PAL), on the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, the PLAYSTATION 3 computer entertainment system and Games For Windows. A Nintendo DS edition will follow, please visit www.racedrivergrid.com for more details.

Super Smash Bros. Brawl hits the Nintendo Wii in the UK next month


Nintendo's cameo-filled beat'em-up returns with a cast of all your favorite characters and a few new surprises. Super Smash Bros. Brawl is the kind of game your Wii has been aching for and will appeal to both old skool Nintendo gamers and new fans alike. It even boasts a new online functionality, so get your pre-order in now for what promises to be the finest all-star fighting game in the galaxy!



More posts on Super Smash Bros. Brawl here

Guitar Hero III mobile game heads for one million downloads


Guitar Hero III Mobile was the number one selling mobile game on Verizon Wireless phones in the first quarter of 2008. Initially released exclusively by Verizon Wireless, Guitar Hero III Mobile is striking a chord with fans all over the world, shattering mobile game records with nearly 1 million downloads, including monthly subscriptions, across all wireless service providers.

Ryan Hughes, vice president of digital media programming for Verizon, said, "Verizon Wireless customers have shown a tremendous appetite for mobile games - the category is an important part of our strategy to increase data revenue, and marquee titles such as Guitar Hero III help create demand and engage our customers in mobile gameplay."

Guitar Hero III Mobile has become one of the fastest selling games in mobile gaming history. More than 250,000 songs are played every day by mobile subscribers across the U.S. The most played songs include "Slow Ride" (re-record), "Mississippi Queen" (re-record) and "Black Magic Woman" (re-record).

"Fans of the Guitar Hero console games have been very impressed with the title's translation onto BREW handsets," said David White, chief executive officer of Hands-On Mobile. "Guitar Hero III Mobile has opened the eyes of a whole new group of consumers to the world of mobile games."

Mobile research firm M:Metrics said that consumer demand for mobile games in the U.S. has yet to reach its peak, but as it has seen from the demand for Guitar Hero III Mobile since its launch, this title is clearly a game changer. "Guitar Hero is a recognizable franchise that has already won over consumers with the console version, setting it up for great success on the mobile platform," said Seamus McAteer, senior analyst, M:Metrics. The firm reports that the number of people downloading a mobile game continues to grow, with 20 million playing a downloaded game in March.

In addition, Hands-On Mobile announced the Guitar Hero III Mobile June Song Pack, a feature that offers subscribers the opportunity to download three new songs every month. Songs available to wireless users on June 1 include "Stricken" (original recording), "Talk Dirty to Me" (re-record) and "Rock and Roll All Nite" (re-record). Through the Song Pack downloads, players will be able to access more than 50 songs and 150 unique note charts across all three difficulties (easy, medium and expert) within one year of the game's release.

Featuring four authentic guitars and three venues, Guitar Hero III Mobile challenges players to hit number keys in synch with colored notes that appear on a scrolling fret board. The game offers 15 instantly accessible tracks taken from the console series.

For more information, please visit www.GuitarHeroMobile.com. Guitar Hero III Mobile may be downloaded by text messaging the keyword GH to 46966. Verizon Wireless customers can check out Guitar Hero III Mobile in the Top Selling Games aisle on Get It Now-capable phones for $4.49 monthly access or $11.99 for unlimited use purchase. Airtime or megabyte charges may apply when browsing, downloading and using the application.

Dracula - Origin PC video game demo released


Download demo for new adventure PC game.

The game puts you in the role of Professor Van Helsing, the renowned vampire hunter on a quest for Dracula. Hunt down history’s most famous vampire, liberating the souls of all those who have crossed his evil path and preventing him from raising the dead.

Dare you play the deadly demo?

In anticipation of Dracula: Origin’s imminent release, Ascaron has announced the availability of a playable demo for the fearsome adventure game.

Discover an enthralling and gruesome tale, as you embark on a mysterious journey of intriguing adventure. Immerse yourself in the bewitching atmosphere that surrounds Dracula and his fellow characters, as you travel through the various gothic locations.

Begin the game as the infamous vampire hunter Professor Van Helsing, who receives a disturbing letter, pre-empting the pursuit of Dracula. Firstly, make sure the beautiful Mina, the object of Dracula’s affection, is safe. Then retrace Dracula’s sinful steps through the heart of London, a city recently terrorised by the Dark Prince.

After solving these initial clues, travel onwards to a ghostly cemetery that lies adjacent to Dracula’s evil lair. As night falls, numerous puzzling mysteries must be solved as you hunt for your prey. But who is really the prey and who is the hunter?

Using conventional Point & Click gameplay, Dracula: Origin is a superb adventure supported by impeccable graphics and a rich storyline taking you to London, Egypt, Austria and, of course, to Transylvania; the famous home of the great vampire. The world, inspired by the celebrated author Bram Stoker, is reproduced through 2D environments and animated 3D characters.

Download the playable demo of Dracula: Origin (606 Mb)


Fast facts:
Publisher: Ascaron Entertainment / 93 Games
Web: www.Ascaron.com / www.Dracula-Origin.com
Developer: Frogware Studio
Release date: 6th June 2008
PEGI: 12+
Format: PC
Genre: Adventure

Pro cycling manager – Tour de France 2008 - new trailer and screenshots released


The first look at in-game footage...

Pro Cycling Manager – Tour De France 2008 is the latest version of the popular racing management game for PC and PSP. To demonstrate the games outstanding graphics engine, Ascaron and 93 Games have released the official trailer and 9 new PC screenshots.

Watch the trailer here

Pro Cycling Manager – Tour de France 2008 features 180 real-time 3D playable races, including the famous Tour de France 2008. The new trailer displays the improved racing graphics, new lighting system, highly detailed environments and incredibly realistic rider models and animations. The trailer also includes footage of professional track cycling, a new type of racing to challenge fans of the series.

Chase the yellow jersey

Become the manager of one of 65 official cycling teams, handling all aspects of a professional season; choosing the team, finding new talent, taking charge of races, organising contracts, scheduling training and looking after finances. A variety of race commands and actions let you take control of your team, implementing winning tactics as you race to victory.

New features, combined with Pro Cycling Manager’s engaging gameplay ensure that Pro Cycling Manager – Tour de France 2008 is a highly realistic and enjoyable professional cycling experience.

New British tanks in Free Sudden Strike 3 Arms for Victory addon

Fireglow Games presents a pack of screenshots showing new British tanks: Sexton, Deacon, Bishop and Archer in the FREE addon for Sudden Strike 3 - Arms for Victory.




Top Japanese games designers make rare European appearance


Four esteemed video game designers from Japan will make a rare appearance in Europe this summer when they take to the podium at Develop, Europe’s leading conference for the game development community.

Atsushi Ii (Ejun), director, Pyramid Inc. and Junichi Yoshizawa, associate producer, SCE WWS JAPAN Studio will present a fascinating insight into the development of Patapon, widely regarded as not only the best rhythm game ever released but also one of the best PSP(PlayStationPortable) titles ever created. Patapon was developed by Pyramid and produced by SCE JAPAN Studio.

Jun Fujiki, concept, JSPS/Kyushu University and Tatsuya Suzuki, director, SCE WWS JAPAN Studio will also present at Develop, addressing delegates on the uniquely captivating Echochrome video game that launched on PSP and PLAYSTATION 3 (PS3) to critical acclaim earlier this year. A fellow at Kyushu University Faculty of Design, Jun Fujiki is the creator of the Object Locative Environment (OLE) coordinate system, which provided the special engine behind Echochrome.

The Develop Conference and Expo takes place from 29-31 July in Brighton and securing such high-profile Japanese speakers is a major coup for organiser Tandem Events: “We are privileged to welcome Ii-san, Yoshizawa-san, Fujiki-san and Suzuki-san to the Develop Conference and are thrilled that we can offer our delegates the opportunity to be inspired by what can only be described as some of the most creative video games designers on the planet,” said managing director Andy Lane.

The third annual Develop Conference will host more than 90 speakers and 60 sessions moulded around tracks that are key to the world of games development: Audio, Art & Animation, Business, Coding, Game Design, Production and World View.

A full list of confirmed sessions can be found online at www.develop-conference.com. Registration is now open and delegates can apply for Super, Standard, Mobile, Audio and Expo passes for the Develop Conference and Expo online at www.develop-conference.com. Discounts are available on all passes purchased before 1 July 2008.

The expo pass is free of charge – please register online.

How Guitar Hero Works on the DS [Video]


A look at how Guitar Hero works on DS.

read more | digg story

Enemy territory - Quake Wars on PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360


The alien invasion has begun with Enemy Territory: QUAKE Wars published by Activision for the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and the PLAYSTATION 3 computer entertainment system has shipped to retail stores nationwide. Set in the year 2065, Enemy Territory: QUAKE Wars pits the armies of Earth’s Global Defense Force (GDF) against the invading alien menace, the Strogg, in an all-out struggle for the fate of the planet. Enemy Territory: QUAKE Wars is slated to arrive on European store shelves on May 30, 2008, Australian store shelves on June 4 2008.
"Enemy Territory: QUAKE Wars raises the bar for next-gen console games with its variety and intense combat," said Kevin Cloud, Executive Producer, id Software. “Whether you’re playing online with fifteen friends, or playing a single-player campaign against amazing AI, Enemy Territory: QUAKE Wars delivers a new level of team play and combat strategy to the PS3 and 360.”
Set within the expansive QUAKE universe in the year 2065, Enemy Territory: QUAKE Wars is the ultimate team and mission-based multiplayer warfare game offering console gamers distinct classes, vehicles and weapons to choose from, giving players countless ways to join the battle. Players work as a team to defeat the enemy and achieve objectives either online against other players or battle offline with surprisingly lifelike AI. Across multi-mission campaigns, players earn experience and promotions while stats are recorded globally for players to track their rank and prestige in the community at www.enemyterritory.com.

Based on the critically-acclaimed game from id Software and Splash Damage for Windows PC that has received over eighty awards and nominations, Enemy Territory: QUAKE Wars was developed for the Xbox 360 by Nerve Software.


Enemy Territory: QUAKE Wars has been rated “15” by the BBFC.

Simcity creator from the sims label for the Nintendo Wii and Nintendo DS


Create, Enjoy, Destroy Amazing Cities On The Wii; Develop Your City From Ancient Times To The Modern Day On The Nintendo DS

First details for SimCity Creator, exclusively for the Wii and Nintendo DS. SimCity Creator is an open-ended, highly creative game with a sense of humor that allows players to utilize the distinctive gameplay aspects of the Wii and Nintendo DS to create, enjoy and destroy epic cities. The most accessible and light-hearted game from the SimCity franchise, SimCity Creator will ship on September 22, 2008 in North America and on September 19, 2008 in Europe and Asia-Pacific regions. SimCity Creator is designed to be a city-game experience for families and players of all ages!

SimCity Creator for the Wii
Be a powerful mayor - create, enjoy and destroy your ultimate city. Start by zoning your city, constructing homes, businesses, factories, skyscrapers, freeways, railroads, and much more. SimCity Creator is a visually exciting experience with a completely new user interface, designed specifically for the Wii and the Wii remote. You’ll discover many ways to customize your city, including 13 city styles to explore, such as American, European and Asian themes. More city styles will be revealed, so stay tuned for more information!

You can also place a selection of more than 30 “Hero” buildings into your city to make it distinctive and momentous. Some of these iconic buildings are based on the current day, some on history and some on fantasy. The more city styles you explore, the more Hero building options you have.


For the first time, take the liberty to build transportation systems with free placement of rounded and curved roads and rail lines, taking your city to new creative and curvy heights. And get a new perspective on your cityscape from a helicopter, a jet or a propeller plane which you can use to fly over your creation. Check out what you’ve built in your aircraft of choice!

Disasters that players of SimCity always love remain an important and entertaining element in SimCity Creator. Using the Wii remote you can create earthquakes, tornados, call in destructive robots and monsters, create fires and discover many more ways to cause havoc. You created it, and now you can destroy it. With hours of fun and replayability, the fate of your city and its citizens are in your hands!

SimCity Creator for Nintendo DS
Guide your city from ancient times into the future with SimCity Creator for Nintendo DS. Evolve your city through time, starting with ancient times, the middle ages, modern times, present day and the future. Four play modes are available, Challenge, Free Play, Chance Encounter and Gallery, giving options to make the game as challenging or as creative as you want. Earn epic landmarks along the way to enhance your city and mark your progress into the next era. Choose your path through history and make a city for the ages.

“SimCity Creator for the Wii and Nintendo DS brings two separate, delightful new ways to create, enjoy and destroy your own cities,” said Rod Humble, Head of Studio for The Sims Label. “On the Wii, for the first time in the SimCity franchise, you will have the ability to build curved roads and differently shaped zones allowing you to make more authentic places all utilizing the motions of the Wii remote. Employing the new city advisor system, you will be able to make the game as complex or simple as you want. On Nintendo DS, we will give you the ability to make a city develop through time and to overcome the different challenges each era of urban development presents. I know both long-time and new SimCity players will enjoy these innovative experiences in SimCity Creator starting this September!”

SimCity Creator will be available on the Wii and Nintendo DS on September 22, 2008 in North America and on September 19, 2008 in Europe and Asia-Pacific regions.


Product Specifications
Publisher: Electronic Arts
Platform: Wii/Nintendo DS
Ship Dates: September 22, 2008 in North America; September 19, 2008 in Europe and Asia-Pacific regions
Category: Simulation/Strategy
ESRB Rating: This game has not been rated
PEGI Rating: This game has not been rated

Thursday, May 29, 2008

Allen Carr’s Easyway to Stop Smoking with your Nintendo DS


Ubisoft said today it will develop a video game based on the successful Allen Carr’s Easyway to Stop Smoking method. Designed for Nintendo DS, Allen Carr’s Easyway to Stop Smoking is scheduled for release in November 2008.

Published in 50 countries, Allen Carr’s Easyway to Stop Smoking book is an international best seller, and Allen Carr’s Easyway network of clinics spans the globe. Over 10 million smokers worldwide have already turned to Allen Carr’s Easyway books, clinics or DVD in order to stop smoking. The method removes the smoker’s belief that smoking provides them with any genuine pleasure or crutch, takes away the feeling of deprivation and therefore rids the smoker of the fear of stopping. The clinics offer a full money-back guarantee based on which the success rate after 3 months is over 90% and independent scientific studies confirm a success rate of over 50% after 12 months.

Brought to an exciting interactive platform, Nintendo DS, Allen Carr’s Easyway method will take on a whole new dimension. Players will be actively participating in the game’s content as they input the details of their smoking habits and even select their own Allen Carr’s Easyway coach to take them through the process of quitting.

Developed in conjunction with Allen Carr’s top experts, the game echoes the philosophy of Allen Carr’s Easyway method, enabling players to be entertained, challenged and to stop smoking at the same time.

“Ubisoft’s creative team has worked hard to deliver a game that successfully communicates Allen Carr’s Easyway method via play,” said Christian Salomon, vice president of worldwide licensing at Ubisoft. “The player experiences a truly interactive engagement with the game through which he or she learns that it can actually be enjoyable to quit smoking.”

Robin Hayley, managing director of Allen Carr’s Easyway to Stop Smoking, concurs. “There was an amazing synergy between Allen Carr’s Easyway team and Ubisoft as we worked on this project,” he said. “Our experts worked hand in hand with the Ubisoft team to create an entertaining and illuminating game that delivers Allen Carr’s Easyway method in a new, dynamic and highly effective way.”

Play Battlefield Bad Company Before Everyone Else!


In a week, EA will be launching the Battlefield Bad Company demo over Xbox Live and PlayStation Network across the globe. Until then, a lucky few can get in on the action before anyone else. Game Freaks 365 is teaming up with Electronic Arts to disburse free codes to the Battlefield Bad Company demo one week before its launch.

read more | digg story

Shaun White Snowboarding on Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3


Shaun White Snowboarding, a title destined to break all former action sports video game notions and redefine the action sports genre. The game will appear on the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, the PlayStation 3 computer entertainment system, Windows-based PC, and the Wii home video game system from Nintendo, and is scheduled for release in Holiday 2008.

Powered by the award-winning Assassin's Creed engine for Xbox 360 and the PlayStation 3 system, Shaun White Snowboarding truly captures the action sports lifestyle. Shaun White Snowboarding is being developed from the ground up for the Wii system, taking full advantage of the Wii Balance Board accessory and featuring its own unique storyline and adventure with Shaun White.
“Shaun White Snowboarding will turn all of the traditional ideas and experiences of past action sports titles upside down,” said Tony Key, senior vice president of sales and marketing at Ubisoft. “The combination of Ubisoft’s innovation approach and the influence of Shaun’s lifestyle and perspective make this gaming experience like no other.”

Developed in close collaboration with Shaun White, Olympic Gold Medalist and eight-time X Games Gold Medalist, Shaun White Snowboarding allows players to enter a world of total freedom, where they can create their own experience and choose how, where, and with whom they want to ride.

Key Features of Shaun White Snowboarding for Xbox 360, the PLAYSTATION 3 system, and Windows-based PC:

  • Open World Mountains Choose how you ride in open-world mountains across the world. Conquer extreme peak conditions, create your own paths in the back country, or compete with fellow riders in the terrain parks.
  • Your Friends Are Always Around Play in a world where your friends are always around. Do your own runs on mountains populated by real gamers, or join your friends for a quick session from any mountain.
  • More than Just Snowboarding Have fun with your friends on and off the board! Throw snowballs, hike to access secret spots, film your friends doing ripping tricks. You can also upload your videos online to share with the world.
  • Ride Your Way Express yourself through tricks, riding styles, and highly customizable avatars – both in single-player and in the online world. Use the intuitive dual analogue control to pull off a huge variety of tricks that express your style.
  • Next-Gen Technology Built on the Assassin's Creed engine, this game creates a massive world with gorgeous visuals and realistic NPC interactions. This is also the first time a snowboarding game is completely driven by physics instead of animation.

Authentic Snowboarding Ubisoft has worked closely with Shaun White to infuse the gaming experience with authenticity, personality and humor. Shaun is a friend and mentor in the game, and will help you with your skills. And, if you are deemed worthy, you may even be able to play as Shaun in the game …

Key features of Shaun White Snowboarding for the Wii system:

  • Exclusive storyline Everybody loves a road trip! You and your crew travel the world to participate in a variety of the largest and craziest events to become a world-renowned athlete. Life on the road to success wouldn’t be the same without the support of your friends, who will always be there to help you out and keep your head on your shoulders. Stand together with your friends - both in the game and in the living room - and you will be able to conquer the madness that fame brings.
  • Go on a globetrotting adventure with Shaun White as your partner – Ubisoft worked in close contact with Shaun White in order to infuse the experience with the most authentic elements of his riding style, personality and sense of humor. Shaun will act as a good-natured friend and mentor to the player, hooking him up with the right friends to conquer challenges together, introduce him to new locales, or simply be around to share in a laugh.
  • Wii Balance Board Integration – Get yourself into the game like never before by using the Wii Board to control your rider. Control your carves, jumps and grinds with the intuitiveness and fun of having a snowboard in your own living room.
  • Everyone plays, no one waits – Engage in a seamlessly integrated multiplayer experience for two to four players, where every player is active in the game at all times.
  • Get together your crew – In the world of snowboarding, it pays to have friends on your side. Your crew of friends will always be there to help you by offering you unique abilities to improve both your riding and keeping you grounded with friendly pranks; filming all the antics along the way.
  • Fame and Respect - Getting your name out there by doing well as a pro snowboarder is bound to get you some recognition. As your fame grows, so too does your ability to take on bigger and bigger challenges, from new mountains to more prestigious events and competitions. Fame, however, isn’t everything. You’ll need to gain your friends’ respect by riding with style in order to gain their support; they will help you find hidden areas, share their favorite music tracks and keep you laughing.

Family Ski on Nintendo Wii - Fact sheet


Family Ski

Supports Wii Board

Family Ski
Category Sport
Players 1-4 Players (1-12 players online)
Release Date 13 June 2008

Hit the slopes with your friends in Family Ski …

Welcome to the Happy Ski Resort, where fresh powder, groomed runs, multiple trails, and state of the art facilities await! Family Ski takes you down the slopes in the most exciting skiing game to hit the Wii! Grab your Wii Remote and Nunchuk or step onto your Wii Board to execute perfect wedge stops, shred the slaloms, and negotiate moguls with ease. With an in-depth Ski School and over a dozen lengthy runs packed with jumps, races, and more, you and your friends won’t want to leave the slopes again!
Family Ski is the latest release from Nintendo that makes full use of the Wii Board peripheral. Take the nunchuck and remote in your hands and step on the Wii Board to really take advantage.
Family Ski is a relaxed winter sports game and uses the motion controllers to let players Ski. The Wii remote and Nunchuck simulate the Ski Poles, used to accelerate and move off from a stationary point and turn in a specific direction. When these are used in collaboration with the Wii Fit peripheral, the Wii board, players can be further immersed into a unique experience of skiing. The Wii Board takes over to allow the player to turn whilst skiing by measuring the swaying and leaning of the body.

Official Copy:

  • You and up to four others can whistle your way down the slopes using the motionsensing controls and pressure-sensitive pad.

  • We Ski lets you whisk up a character from scratch and customise with lots of purchasable equipment, or you can import your Mii for realism.

  • You can ski in a fantasy ski resort inhabited by a community of NPC, and have the chance to participate in events or just relax.

  • You can also take photographs on the slopes with up to 4 other skiers and share their skiing experience with others using Wii message board & Wii connect24.

Cooking Guide on Nintendo Wii - Fact Sheet


Cooking Guide

Can't decide what to eat?

Players 1 Player
Release Date 20th June 2008

Can’t decide what to eat? Cooking Guide will help you choose, prepare and cook international dishes

Want to make yourself a quick dinner after a long day at work? Want to plan a week of meals for your family? Or do you want to make a Sunday roast for 10? Cooking Guide can help you solve all these and many other meal dilemmas.
Choose from 250 recipes from all over the world. Cooking Guide takes you through every step from compiling a shopping list, preparation of ingredients and utensils through to a step-by-step guide of how to make your chosen meal.
With varying difficulties of recipes Cooking Guide is suitable for all. The voice recognition software makes it simple to go through each stage of the recipe.

Key Features
  • Interactive cooking aid that takes you through over 250 recipes from scratch.
  • Game is designed to take the user through every stage of cooking.
  • The recipes are enhanced with many demonstrational videos which go beyond the capabilities of printed cook books.
  • Additional functionalities are included to facilitate the cooking and preparation process.

First Tony Hawk's Pro Skater Commercial


Oh, the memories...Back when a million points really meant something.

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Street Fighter 4 commercial


New Trailer, Preorder Campaign Kickoff On StreetFighter.com Immediately

URL: http://www.streetfighter.com, http://fight.proelite.com/elitexc-primetime.html

The first television commercial for Street Fighter IV will debut during the CBS EliteXC Saturday Night Fights mixed martial arts (MMA) event. The EliteXC bout takes place on CBS on Saturday, May 31 at 9 PM EST. Immediately following the bout, the Street Fighter IV trailer will debut on the newly redesigned StreetFighter.com, along with the first chance for gamers to preorder Street Fighter IV for the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and PLAYSTATION 3 (PS3) computer entertainment system exclusively through GamesStop.
Viewers tuning in to catch the first MMA fight to ever air on US broadcast television featuring internet phenomenon Kimbo Slice battling British fighter James “The Colossus” Thompson, will be treated to the network premiere of a 60 second Street Fighter IV trailer and 30 second Street Fighter IV television spots, which feature a combination of stylized CG animation and game play, ending with a call to action that will drive viewers to the newly designed StreetFighter.com website.
On the website, players will be able to watch the new “artistic” trailer, featuring a stylized brawl between Street Fighter favorite Guile and new character Abel along with several other Street Fighter IV trailers and then immediately pre-order the Xbox 360 or PS3 version of the game from GameStop. Fans who pre-order Street Fighter IV will receive a limited edition collectable Street Fighter Tribute artbook, illustrated by top artists from the comic book and video game industries. A countdown currently running on the website tracks the time remaining until the new trailer unlocks.

PlayStation 3 owners to get enhanced version of BioShock


2K Games Injects PLAYSTATION 3 System Owners with Genetically Enhanced Version of BioShock

BioShock, the “genetically enhanced“ story-driven action game, is in development for the PLAYSTATION 3 computer entertainment system at 2K Marin. The PLAYSTATION 3 system title will be released in October 2008 with new features and content that heighten the award-winning experience.

BioShock for the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and Games for Windows was released in 2007 and received numerous Game of the Year honors from prestigious organizations including Associated Press, the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA), Game Informer, Spike TV’s VGAs and Paste Magazine. BioShock’s extension to the PLAYSTATION 3 system will bring exciting new content to this amazing title and reach many new players, while giving the title the opportunity to once again be named Game of the Year.
“Since BioShock for Xbox 360 and Games for Windows won countless 2007 Game of the Year awards, we are excited to see the impact of this stellar title for the PLAYSTATION 3 system when it debuts this fall,” said Christoph Hartmann, president of 2K. “Over the coming months we look forward to revealing the new features and content that will make this a must-have game for its new audience, as well as for those who enjoyed it on the other platforms.”


BioShock is a narrative-driven action experience that allows players to do the impossible as they journey through an amazing, immersive and terrifying world. Caught between powerful forces and hunted down by genetically mutated citizens, the player will come to grips with the mysterious and fascinating world of Rapture, a distinct Art Deco underwater utopia gone mad. BioShock not only challenges the players’ capacity to adapt and survive, but brings to question their values and commitment to the inhabitants of Rapture. With smart and adaptive AI, no encounter ever plays out the same, while numerous customization options provide gamers with an experience that adapts to their playing style.

As one of the highest-rated titles of 2007, BioShock was unanimously praised by the editorial industry’s top critics:

“While delivering a level of intrigue you rarely see in games, its most captivating element is its gameplay – which I can easily say delivers the most rewarding and adrenaline-filled experience I have ever had with an FPS.” – Game Informer Magazine, 10 out of 10, Game of the Year

“There’s ample flexibility in the game’s linear storyline that makes a second run through Rapture’s unique brand of madness an exciting prospect.” – Associated Press, 4 stars out of 4

“Why settle for watching the hero in a film have a thrilling adventure when you can all but live a narrative this masterfully woven.” – Paste Magazine, Game of the Year

“BioShock stands as a monolithic example of the convergence of entertaining gameplay and an irresistibly sinister, engrossing storyline that encompasses a host of multifaceted characters. This is an essential gaming experience.” – IGN.com, 9.7 out of 10, Editor’s Choice Award

“More so than any other game in recent memory, BioShock is dripping with atmosphere and intrigue, and it’s one of those rare titles where story, dialogue and character development are just as important as the action sequences.” – USA Today, 9 stars out of 10

BioShock for the PLAYSTATION 3 system will be available in October 2008 and is not yet rated by the ESRB. For more information on BioShock, visit www.bioshockgame.com.

Ice Cream Dee-Lites downloadable PC click management game


The release of Ice Cream Dee-Lites, a downloadable PC click management game.
"Pardon the pun, but we're delighted that players everywhere can now play Ice Cream Dee-Lites," said Keith Makse, President of Cerebral Vortex Games and Executive Producer of Ice Cream Dee-Lites.
In Ice Cream Dee-Lites, players assist Dee in her quest to realize her dream career: working at Scoops, which serves the tastiest ice cream around. Starting with the Chill Mobile ice cream truck, Dee must serve ice cream cones, yogurt and milkshakes to a variety of quirky customers as quickly as possible to earn cash, upgrade her store and work her way to the top of the frozen dessert business. Players must work fast and get the orders right, because customers won't wait around forever!
"Ice Cream Dee-Lites is the casual game with the cherry on top," said Jason MacIsaac, Design Director at Cerebral Vortex Games. "We have lots of great features. Unlike similar games, Dee can carry more than one object. There are tons of upgrades, from faster ice cream machines to tasty toppings like syrups and sprinkles."
"We have the craziest characters and excellent music too," added Michael Sauro, Art Director of Cerebral Vortex Games, whose team created the distinctive "Modernized Retro" look of Ice Cream Dee-Lites. "If you like click management games and love ice cream (and who doesn't?) you'll love Ice Cream Dee-Lites."

Ice Cream Dee-Lites was published by uclick. To download a free one-hour trial, visit www.cerebralvortexgames.com.

Features of Ice Cream Dee-Lites
* Over 60 missions across four distinct ice cream stores
* Serve customers, scoop ice cream, add syrups and sprinkles, all with a click of the mouse!
* Upgrade Dee with clothes that make her faster, and even allow her to carry more than one item
* A cast of 16 crazy characters including the adorable Sweet Little Girl, the impatient Brat, the handy-capable Royce Rolls and ChocoTron, the giant chocolate-craving robot!
* Upgrade your store with over 20 improvements
* "Scoop" and "Sweet!" level mission goals for beginner and advanced players
* Follow Dee's quest in Story Mode, or scoop 'til you drop in Endless mode!

Ubisoft Officially Announces Beyond Good & Evil 2


It's official: At Ubisoft's Ubidays 08 event in Paris, CEO Yves Guillemot unveiled a trailer for the company's next project: Beyond Good & Evil 2.

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HypeKingdom.com launched to support Don King Presents - Prizefighter


Learn the art of hype from the king himself, including creating the perfect nickname, self-promoting salvos using King's voice, interpret King's custom dictionary and more - king of boxing and the godfather of hype, Don King, to launch HypeKingdom.com in support of the highly anticipated boxing video game, Don King Presents: Prizefighter. Fans can now enroll in the University of Hype to learn the art of larger-than-life self-promotion, while getting new insight into the man behind the mania.
“To be the king, you’ve got to know the king, and HypeKingdom.com provides what you need to know to follow in my footsteps,” said Don King. “You’ll also be witness to the spectacular promotionalization of 2K Sports’ Don King Presents: Prizefighter, the most exhilarating boxing title the world has ever seen!”
At HypeKingdom.com, fans can experience the thrill of being the king through the following features:
  • Nickname Generator – Joe Smith isn’t going to fill seats, so get a Don King-inspired nickname that screams “the champ is here!”
  • Customizable Hype Spoken by Don King - Generate your own hype, Mad Lib-style, with the voice of the king.
  • Complete Guide to King’s English - Now fans can accurately sling the slang to raise their hype game.
  • Hype Boards - A place where members can share their own hype glory stories as well as enthusiasm for Don King Presents: Prizefighter.
  • Screen Savers and Screen Shots – View all the screen savers and screen shots in its tenacious spectaculocity to download and share with friends.

Don King Presents: Prizefighter will deliver the deepest, most authentic and entertaining boxing experience available. The life of a boxer is more than just a night at the fights; it’s about building a career and rising to stardom. In Don King Presents - Prizefighter, players must train, overcome adversity, get promoted and avoid temptation to rise in notoriety. The story of their struggle to become champion unfolds in a unique, live-action sports documentary style that features real-life legends and current stars from the world of boxing including Ken Norton, Larry Holmes, Andrew Gollotta, Joe Calzaghe, and many others. Heather Vandeven, the reigning 2007 Penthouse Pet of the Year, and popular video vixen Bria Myles, also star in the documentary and act as temptations for boxers throughout their career.

Don King Presents - Prizefighter will be available on June 10, 2008 for Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, and this fall for Wii home video game system from Nintendo and Nintendo DS.

Desert Racing Game SCORE International Baja 1000 out this Fall


The official SCORE International Baja 1000 video game version of the world's most grueling off-road race. SCORE International Baja 1000 recreates the unforgiving conditions and blistering speeds that make this event the most recognized and entertaining off-road racing event in the world. Developed by Left Field Productions, the game will be available this fall for the PlayStation 2 and PLAYSTATION 3 computer entertainment systems, Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, Wii and Windows-based PC.
"No race demands more endurance of both man and machine than the Baja 1000," said Sal Fish, President and CEO of Score International, the world's leading desert racing organization. "In consulting Activision for a video game version, we meticulously explained what's needed to capture the intensity of the Baja. They've nailed not only the look but also the elements of true desert racing."

Sporting over 90 vehicles across multiple classes in the real Baja 1000 - including trophy trucks, class I, motorcycles, ATVs and more - the game challenges players to not only be first across the finish line, but also keep their machine intact! Hyper-realistic dirt and damage modeling in the game means players need to be crazy enough to take chances, but not so reckless that their vehicle is destroyed before the race is over.
"In creating SCORE International Baja 1000TM, our goal was to create something true to the sport that made you feel the speed and heart-pounding conditions," said Dave Oxford, Activision Publishing. "Players will see potential shortcuts on the tracks, but wonder if their vehicle can handle it. That's a conundrum every driver on the Baja 1000 faces."

Wednesday, May 28, 2008

Beyond Good & Evil 2 announced!

At Ubidays 2008. Hooray!

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Lost Planet - Extreme Condition Colonies Edition For Xbox 360 and Windows PC


Lost Planet: Extreme Condition COLONIES EDITION for the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and Windows-based PCs is now shipping to retail as part of the Xbox 360 Platinum Hits Program. Lost Planet: Extreme Condition COLONIES EDITION is one of the first games to allow cross platform connectivity from Xbox LIVE to Games for Windows – LIVE, allowing console and Windows-based PC users to battle it out on the same online battlefield. Lost Planet: Extreme Condition COLONIES EDITION is rated T for Teen by the Entertainment Software Ratings Board (ESRB) and is available as a Platinum Hit for the value price of $29.99 MSRP.

Lost Planet is an epic gaming masterpiece combining a gripping single player campaign and intense multiplayer modes. Lost Planet contains sophisticated visuals, with an unmatched level of detail as advanced light sourcing is used to ensure a realistic presentation that enhances every explosion, smoke and particle effect. Enormous world maps unfold as players battle hostile creatures in blistering weather conditions across vast snowfields and blazing volcanic areas either on foot or in armed, robotic Vital Suits.

The Platinum Hits release of Lost Planet: Extreme Condition COLONIES EDITION for Xbox 360 and the Windows PCs version will release with many new features not previously available. In addition to a host of new environments and weapons, there will be four new playable characters added to online mode for players to battle it out online, along with a horde of new online multiplayer modes, including Akrid Hunter and Egg Bandit modes. New online content includes seven new multiplayer modes and four exciting new maps for Xbox LIVE and Windows-based PC users to battle on together.

Wonder World Amusement Park' For Nintendo Ds


Featuring Over Two Dozen Mini-Games And Rides, The Carnival Is Portable This Holiday Season!

Now you can bring the fun and thrills of the amusement park with you, as Majesco, an innovative provider of video games for the mass market, today announced Wonder World Amusement Park for Nintendo DS. The portable companion to the Wii title releasing this summer, Wonder World Amusement Park for DS is being developed by Majesco Studios and will be in stores this holiday season.
"Our internal team is very excited to be developing original Majesco IP for such a strong, marketable concept," said Bill Petro, Vice President of Internal Development and Studio Head for Majesco Studios Santa Monica. "Wonder World for DS is a perfect complement to the Wii version and includes additional features that take advantage of the Touch Screen play to maximize the portable fun."
Wonder World Amusement Park for DS lets players experience a complete day at the park in the palm of their hands. Using the Touch Screen, players can toss, drive, shoot, whack, fish and spin in more than two dozen mini-games throughout five themed zones. Playing mini-games lets gamers access interactive rides and win tickets they can redeem for prizes and accessories for their characters. Other rewards include unlockable modes, games and a secret Park Zone! Whether playing alone or challenging a friend via local wireless connection, Wonder World Amusement Park offers a rich carnival game experience anytime, anywhere.

Wonder World Amusement Park for DS is expected to release this holiday.

A New Pokémon Adventure with Pokémon Mystery Dungeon - Explorers Of Time and Pokémon Mystery Dungeon - Explorers Of Darkness!


Pokémon fans get ready to rejoice and dust off that explorer hat as Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Explorers Of Time and Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Explorers Of Darkness hit stores across Europe very soon! Having sold over 1.5 million copies globally following their launches in Japan and the US, this epic adventure, based in a world of mystery full of friends, enemies and hidden treasures, will give players the chance to live the life of a Pokémon. With the ability to communicate with friends via the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection, the Nintendo DS Wireless Communication, or by sharing passwords, players will never be completely lost, no matter how deep the Dungeon may be. Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Explorers Of Time and Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Explorers Of Darkness launch across Europe on 4th July 2008.
With the first titles of the Pokémon Mystery Dungeon series selling over 1 million copies across Europe, Pokémon fans will not want to miss this next instalment. Once again heading into a world completely populated by Pokémon, players take a Personality Quiz to determine which Pokémon they will become. Will fans become their favourite Pokémon from the 16 potential Pokémon alter egos, including four Pokémon from Pokémon Diamond and Pokémon Pearl, available? Players must also choose a Partner Pokémon to support them through the rollercoaster adventure ahead as their trusty sidekick. Accompanied by their loyal friend in this strange world, players embark on an epic journey through limitless and randomly generated dungeons, uncovering mystery after mystery to find out why they’ve become a Pokémon.
The unpredictability in these titles is not limited to the Mystery Dungeons as Pokémon fans soon find out that the undiscovered treasures hidden in the deepest and darkest Dungeons are not the only secrets in this world! As players search and battle Pokémon in the dungeons, they discover that a Pokémon has travelled back in time to steal the precious Time Gears hidden in the farthest corners of this world. It is up to the player to build an Exploration Team brave enough to take on this enemy and prevent Time from stopping and the whole world plunging into Darkness!
As players settle into their new Pokémon form, their Partner Pokémon will urge them to join Wigglytuff’s Guild to create an Exploration Team. Once initiated into the Guild the newly formed team is allowed to run simple errands, but very soon the Exploration Team will head out on grander adventures, seeking lost items and capturing wanted outlaws. At the Guild, players will be well looked after by a host of Pokémon who are always ready to help players with their adventure!
Players take on the responsibility of Team leader as they enter the dungeons, collecting items and challenging enemy Pokémon standing in their way. As the game progresses, victory will sometimes see fans able to invite the defeated Pokémon into their team. Also, a useful new option in these Pokémon titles is now available to those who faint in the Dungeons. They are able to send out an SOS mail to friends via the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection or the Nintendo DS wireless function or as a password!

Choosing the Friend Rescue option allows any player who is defeated in a dungeon to issue an SOS mail to friends or other Exploration Teams, calling for them to enter that dungeon and make a rescue attempt. If the rescue attempt is a success, the defeated Exploration Team will not lose any money or items and continue the exploration from where they fainted. Along with the Friend Rescue requests, players can also access Wonder Mail to share dungeon missions and view any requests for advice from other players. Fans can also swap items in Trade Items and even trade team members in Trade Team.
So prepare for a summer full of mystery and epic adventures as Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Explorers Of Time and Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Explorers Of Darkness launch across Europe on 4th July 2008.

Check out Pokémon Snap already available on Virtual Console and watch out for Pokémon Puzzle League which will be arriving soon. These Nintendo 64 classics make themselves available on Virtual Console for 1000 Wii Points and are perfect to keep for yourself or to give as a gift to your friends!

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Atari's classic warlords now live on xbox live arcade


Defend and Destroy in Atari's Arcade Classic 'Warlords' Now Live on Xbox LIVE Arcade -

Battle with friends, and experience the competitive spirit of arcade games with Warlords, a multiplayer game where participants must knock other kings out of their castles while keeping their own king protected. Players use a shield to defend their fortress and launch a flaming ball to break down the other players’ forts. Up to four friends can join in the action, and The Evo mode allows players to import their own pictures to their castles.

Developed by Stainless Games, Warlords is available worldwide (with the exception of Japan and Korea) for 800 Microsoft Points and is rated E for Everyone by the ESRB.

Latest ChartTrack weekly UK games charts

All formats

(Full price) Week ending 24 May 2008

1 GRAND THEFT AUTO IV ROCKSTAR
2 AGE OF CONAN: HYBORIAN ADVENTURES EIDOS
3 HAZE UBISOFT -
4 MARIO & SONIC AT THE OLYMPIC GAMES SEGA
5 ROCK BAND EA GAMES
6 MARIO KART WII NINTENDO
7 FIFA 08 EA SPORTS
8 PRO EVOLUTION SOCCER 2008 KONAMI
9 GUITAR HERO III: LEGENDS OF ROCK REDOCTANE
10 IRON MAN: THE OFFICIAL VIDEOGAME SEGA
11 CALL OF DUTY 4: MODERN WARFARE ACTIVISION
12 SEGA SUPERSTARS TENNIS SEGA
13 HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL 2: WORK THIS OUT! DISNEY INTERACTIVE STUDIOS
14 UEFA EURO 2008 AUSTRIA-SWITZERLAND EA SPORTS
15 COOKING MAMA 2 505 GAMES
16 FOOTBALL MANAGER 2008 SEGA
17 BOOM BLOX EA GAMES
18 MARIO KART DS NINTENDO
19 LEGO STAR WARS: THE COMPLETE SAGA LUCASARTS
20 NEW SUPER MARIO BROS. NINTENDO

Introducing Spore Creature Stage on Mac


The Spore Team is proud to present the Creature Stage, the second stage in the Spore universe. You begin Creature Stage as a simple organism which has just sprouted legs and wandered onto land for the first time. This stage takes place on a 3-D world filled with lush plant life and life forms of all shapes and sizes.

Gather DNA points as you interact with other creatures either socially or aggressively. Collect new parts, then use the Creature Creator to spend your DNA and expand your creature’s abilities. Discover countless new species as you explore your strange new world, all of them created by other players.

Depending on how you played Cell Stage, your creature will begin Creature Stage with one of three super powers at its disposal. It’s a race of the species to become the first sentient creature on your planet!

Vicarious Visions Releases First Guitar Hero - On Tour Developer Diary


Karthik Bala, CEO of Vicarious Visions, presents a behind-the-scenes look at the creation of the Guitar Hero: On Tour Guitar Grip for Nintendo DS

My name is Karthik Bala, CEO of Vicarious Visions. We’re the development team behind the upcoming release of “Guitar Hero: On Tour” - the first ever Guitar Hero game for Nintendo DS. Over the next few weeks, we’re going to be talking about the rollercoaster ride we’ve been on this past year in the development of the game. It was a very unusual project to work on and we wanted to share some of our experiences with you.

The game actually started out over a year ago as an idea that some of our handheld guys were batting. The question was, “would it even be possible to bring the Guitar Hero experience to portable form?” That question quickly led to the major aesthetic challenge we needed to solve, “How do you recreate the essence of Guitar Hero for a portable without making everyone carry around a full size plastic guitar?”

We all thought it was crazy… and so did the guys at Activision and Red Octane. But we wanted to give it a try as a research project. Worst case, it wouldn’t work and we would learn a bunch of stuff and we move on. :)

To Activision/Red Octane’s credit, they gave us the breathing room to experiment for a few months. The team built a *lot* of prototypes. Some were ridiculous… others a total disaster. But a few were promising. We’ll be taking you through the prototype process in the next couple of weeks.

What became evident was that we were NOT going to recreate the exact same Guitar Hero game as console in portable form. Why bother? Having a full size guitar for a handheld makes no sense. So we weren’t going to do that. Maybe we wouldn’t even have a guitar at all…

I still remember the day when some of the guys were standing in front of my office with giant grins on their faces. I knew these guys were up to no good. :) That’s when they showed me a “Frankensteined” GBA cartridge with exposed wiring, switches and electronics plugged into a DS. The game prototype had a note highway, with the peripheral activating the gems on screen.

It was a breakthrough. We’ve never released a picture of the original device we built. Here it is:

Yes, it had 3 buttons. But it proved the idea. We took it to Red Octane and their hardware guys (who are really friggin’ smart) went forward fleshing out the design.

There were a lot of challenges on the project – the user interface, peripheral design, graphical fidelity, audio compression and quality, storage space, multiplayer and more. In the coming weeks, you’ll meet the team and how they tackled these problems. It was rough sailing on this project, but we had a determined team of core gamers/developers who had their minds set on one goal: Creating a unique portable music/rhythm game that uses the Guitar Hero mechanics and aesthetics.