Search This Blog

Thursday, July 31, 2008

Download Facebreaker demo on Xbox now on PS3 soon


Want to break some faces? The FaceBreaker Demo is now available on Xbox LIVE, and will follow on the PlayStation Network on August 7th. The demo features characters Sparrow, Ice and Steve going at it in the fast-paced boxer, as well as the game’s custom face generator called Photo Game Face. Photo Game Face will allow gamers to upload a cartoon likeness to the FaceBreaker online boxer gallery at EA SPORTS World. Created boxers will all be available for download – and can be shared with the world - when FaceBreaker ships to retailers on September 3. Players can use an XBOX LIVE Vision camera or a PLAYSTATION Eye camera to upload themselves – or someone else - directly onto their consoles, or alternatively use a regular photo. Transform your created boxer with 60+ customization options to play with, a full color palette and a closet full of costumes.



Expect the unexpected with FaceBreaker; an all new arcade boxing title featuring laugh-out-loud fisticuffing action and over-the-top characters. FaceBreaker ships to retailers under the EA SPORTS Freestyle brand on September 3 on Xbox 360™ and the PLAYSTATION 3 computer entertainment system with an MSRP $49.99. FaceBreaker K.O. Party for the Wii™ will available this holiday season.

New game show style Trivia Game - Disney th!nk fast


Disney-themed title for Wii home video game console and PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system will test players' mental and physical reflexes while providing hours of family fun

Disney Interactive Studios challenges players to think fast in a new game show-style quiz game that will test players’ Disney and general knowledge. Scheduled for release later this year on both Wii and PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system, Disney TH!NK Fast promises to be a family favorite party game this holiday season.



Hosted by the always loveable and charismatic Genie from Disney’s “Aladdin,” Disney TH!NK Fast is an exciting, fun-filled game for players of all ages and Disney fans. Playing as their favorite Disney characters, including Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Goofy, Donald Duck and Uncle Scrooge McDuck, contestants square off in more than 15 rounds to see who has the quickest mind and the fastest finger on the buzzer.

Rounds range from multiple-choice questions to thrilling, fast paced mini-games in which players compete in themed locations based on such Disney classics as “The Lion King,” “The Little Mermaid,” “Lilo & Stitch” and “101 Dalmatians.” Up to four players can compete, tackling more than 5,000 challenging questions on topics ranging from Disney trivia to general knowledge. A unique visual answer system puts players right in the game and makes it fun for all ages.



The PlayStation 2 system version will be bundled with a set of four buzzers, while the Wii version will utilize the Wii Remote and Nunchuk as buzzers. Developed by Magenta Software, Disney TH!NK Fast is scheduled to ship this holiday season

Kickster – Online Street Soccer

Individual player characters make the difference in Kickster

In a first screencast on the official Kickster weblog publisher Frogster shows the creativity of individual characters in the new street soccer game for the PC. The appearance of the player character is not only a question of style in Kickster but strongly influences their abilities in the match, just like a role-playing game. Thus, gender, body type and height can be selected first during character creation. These statistically defined body characteristics decide directly upon speed, stamina, shooting power, precision, trick skills and defensive skills of the player. Crucial for the gameplay in particular is the chosen position on the pitch. Deep-fielder, mid-fielder and forward can be selected as main classes, each with different attributes.

Forwards are decisively better at scoring for example, while midfielders have their strengths in tackling among others. Football fans can personalize their character further by configuring the facial features of their player, the hair and skin colour, the clothing and sneakers without influence on the player's qualities. After the first successful matches, the character can evolve with cool street wear articles and special skills in the item and skill shops. From level 17 on, players can specialise even further. The expert level offers even more strategic gameplay and lots of new powerful moves.



The character creation's screencast is available as a flash video on http://kickster.eu/en/node/171. Interested players can register immediately for the beta phases. Furthermore two community videos of alpha user "Moon" offer more interesting insights into this fast-paced online street-soccer game: http://kickster.eu/de/node/152.

Kickster – Online Street Soccer

Stale football simulations are a thing of the past – on the comic inspired online grounds of Kickster only those players who control the most individual character and master the coolest special moves will rule. Two vs. two or three vs. three: with their team of real buddies online, players stir up international tournaments and leagues. With dashing moves, impressive tricks and absolute ball control, PC kickers gain respect from the ball addicted online community. Only those who have the coolest special skills will climb up the player rankings.



Kickster offers various scenarios in authentic street style. Backyards, parking lots or factory premises – a fast match can kick off anywhere. Thanks to the dynamic motion system, artists with the ball sweep their opponents from the court with impressively animated dribbling, tackling, tricks and straddles. But only players with the best skills receive respect from the streets. As soon as they reach the expert level, Kickster offers even more strategic gameplay and lots of new powerful moves. A tutorial is available to get you started and will help new players increase their skill level ready for human opponents. The dynamic and elaborate tournament and league system of Kickster will see the best players unveiled and glory claimed. "Easy to download" and "free to play" – Kickster offers fun football without complications or any payment liabilities. The original online game can be quickly installed and runs smoothly on any average PC. Currently Kickster – Online Street Soccer is in the private alpha stage. The closed and open beta phases are scheduled for August and September respectively. This autumn the whistle will blow: Kick off in the backyards!

Features Kickster – Online Street Soccer

• Free2Play: free game client, no subscription fees
• Team based multiplayer online game (no single player, no AI opponents)
• Getting started easily: comprehensive tutorial with 13 game missions, hints and rewards for completed missions
• Intuitive controls, but profound gameplay
• Ingame chat and community tools
• Compact game client of about 300 MB and moderate system requirements
• Customization of player character in large-scale item shop: trendy outfits from head to toe and special moves available for micropayment
• Level based game system: advanced skills learnable with progress
• Strategic team play and tactical moves in expert level
• Elaborate league system with promotion and relegation
• Ample tournament system
• Formation of clubs and club ranking available in the future

Armored Core For Answer Video Game


Armored Core for Answer, the newest addition to From Software's mech-based combat franchise, Armored Core. The thirteenth installment in the series, Armored Core for Answer is scheduled for release on the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and the PLAYSTATION 3 computer entertainment system in September 2008.

About Armored Core for Answer

In the distant future, massive urban development and pollution have critically damaged the planet. There is widespread fear that the end of the world is approaching. The League corporations, a military superpower, control the planet's infrastructure and have forced most of the world's population to live in huge aerial communities, called Cradles, to avoid the contamination. The ORCA, a rebel resistance still residing on the surface of the polluted planet, have amassed a formidable arsenal and are mobilizing to attack The League's bases to put an end to their iron grip on the planet. As a mercenary armed with cutting-edge military robot technology, choose your side and defeat the other factions by harnessing the power of the deadliest and most gigantic weapons ever created by mankind. Armored Core for Answer is rated "T" for Teen with Mild Language, Violence.



Game features include:

  • EPIC BOSS BATTLES - For the first time in the series, cut your way inside colossal mobile battle stations and destroy them from their very core. Identify and exploit the weaknesses of 10 uniquely designed GIANT mobile battle stations to defeat them.
  • PLAY WITH A FRIEND IN SEAMLESS CO-OP MODE OR FACE SEVERAL FRIENDS IN MULTIPLAYER MODES - Cooperate online with a friend in more than 30 missions or face up to 7 other players online in more than 80 different battlefields.
  • CUSTOMIZE YOUR MECH WITH HUNDREDS OF PARTS AND WEAPONS - Find the right combination of weapons and armor that will help you take down colossal enemies. With more than 130 new parts and 400 parts total, enhance your mech to take on increasingly deadlier mobile battle stations. Create the perfect mech design to defeat a powerful enemy and share it with your friends online.
  • SWITCH FACTIONS AND MAKE DECISIONS THAT CHANGE BOTH THE STORYLINE AND YOUR COMBAT EXPERIENCE - Choose your side among different factions including The League, The ORCA and the independent city states, each one having their own sets of giant mobile battle stations, mechs and characteristics, allowing for unique battle experiences. The decisions you make during your adventures will result in one of 3 different possible endings to the war.
  • FIGHT GIGANTIC MILITARY VEHICLES IN BEAUTIFUL, EXPANSIVE ENVIRONMENTS - Experience high-velocity daylight combat or low-visibility night battles as changing weather and time modify the atmosphere of more than 40 battlefields including snow field, desert, ocean, underground and city. Fully destructible environments will bring even more sensational realism to your epic battles.
  • 2 DIFFERENT CONTROL SCHEMES FOR BEGINNERS AND VETERAN PLAYERS - New intuitive controls will allow beginners to skilfully operate your mech in no time. If you are a veteran player, enjoy the full range of controls available in previous Armored Core installments.

Pong Toss - Frat Party Games on Nintendo Wii - Fact Sheet

Pong Toss - Frat Party Games

Format: WiiWare
Launch Date: 07/28/08
ESRB: E (Everyone): Mild Language
Wii Points: 800
Game Type: Sports, Arcade
Control Type: Wii Remote
Players: 1-4
Publisher: JV Games Inc.

Game Information

Pony up-it's Pong Toss time. Compete against your friends or the computer in this ultimate party-game favorite. Play on a regulation table with up to four players. Make consecutive shots for the Fireball bonuses and Roll-Backs as you or your team try to dominate the table and reign as Pong Toss champs. In Speed Pong, up to three challengers can compete at the same time. Speed and strategy are the keys to this fast-paced game. Jack up your opponents by using a slew of power-ups that will slow them down. The first one who sinks the last cup wins it all. Be fast. Be furious. Be victorious.

Release Date for Mount & Blade PC video game


Groundbreaking combat title rides to release in September

PC medieval, action-RPG title, Mount & Blade. Mount & Blade will be released in the UK and Europe on September 19th, 2008.


Mount & Blade is a single-player, third or first-person action/role-playing game with a focus on medieval combat. Developed by the Turkish development house TaleWorlds Entertainment, the BETA version of the game has received acclaim worldwide from gamers impressed by the game’s realistic horseback combat, luscious graphics, and open-world sandbox gameplay. The latter enables players to roam the map freely in a medieval world that offers activities ranging from hunting down bandits, to trading for profit in the game's complex economic system, to becoming a commander and taking part in the wars, with the ultimate goal of becoming a great lord of the realm.


Mount & Blade will be available for purchase in stores and for digital download at GamersGate, the leading digital distribution platform creating easily accessible gaming experiences for gamers worldwide.

Wednesday, July 30, 2008

Japanese video game Flower, Sun and Rain gets update and European launch


Revered Japanese title finally gets a European release as Suda51 updates his PlayStation 2 masterpiece; Trailer to be unveiled on August 1st 2008

Rising Star Games will be keeping both Suda51 and mystery fans happy this autumn with the long-awaited release of Flower, Sun and Rain.

Written and directed by the infamous games creator, this Nintendo DS exclusive is the first chance western gamers have had to experience one of Suda51’s earliest creations and offers an insight into the evolution of his unique style following the huge successes of Killer7 and No More Heroes.

Flower, Sun and Rain is an intriguing mystery adventure very much in the vein of Groundhog Day. You play a detective charged with locating and defusing a bomb by solving thought-provoking puzzles with a wealth of bizarre outcomes. Solving the mystery of what is happening to him and his surroundings is necessary before he eventually goes insane.

Originally released on the Sony PlayStation 2, Flower, Sun and Rain was never available outside of Japan and has been high on wish lists of every Suda51 fan since Killer7 was unleashed on the western market in 2005. This updated Nintendo DS version features all the creative quirks that made the original a hit and uniquely utilises the touch screen to solve mysteries, offering players a more intimate experience.

Commenting on its imminent release, Goichi Suda, aka Suda51 commented, “It’s great news that European gamers are getting to play Flower, Sun and Rain. All of my creative work involves a touch of the bizarre and unexpected and this game is no different!”

In keeping with the mystery-solving style of the game, registered users of the Rising Star Games media bank will get an early opportunity to view the game trailer. This brand new trailer will be available on the media bank (www.risingstargamesmediabank.com) from 9am on Friday, August 1st 2008. It will then be made available to all from 9am the following Monday.

Flower, Sun and Rain will be released throughout Europe from mid-October 2008.

Shot-Online MMO Golfing Simulation for Spain and France


New Spanish and French versions of the internationally successful MMO sports title “Shot Online” announced.

Both new versions will be available for beta testers in mid August, and will be released commercially later this year. The respective websites can already be reached at www.shot-online.eu

The only realistic MMO golfing simulation

Shot Online is a comprehensive and realistic golfing experience, offering players over 250 different holes to play. Players can gain experience points for every well-played course, in order to level up and become the ultimate golfing professional. Beyond that, they have the chance to buy hundreds of optional items to improve their abilities even further. Although there is the possibility to buy certain items for real money, Shot Online remains completely free because every object can also be bought with the in-game currency, either from an NPC or in the auction house.

While up to four players can compete in a direct match at any time, there will be special events and tournaments for everyone on a regular basis, with great prizes to be won. Of course there are lots of useful community features, which give players the chance to chat with their friends, meet new people and form guilds to play as a team.

After a very successful year for the German version of the game, now with over 150,000 registered players, gamigo is finishing up the French and Spanish versions of the worldwide popular sports MMOG. These versions will not only be available to players in France and Spain, but every player from around the globe speaking one of these languages can become part of the growing international community.



In mid August, players will have the chance to check out the new versions of the game for the first time, in an extensive beta testing period. The final version will commence shortly afterwards. Right now, players can already check out the official website in both new languages and meet up with other golfers in the forums.

“We are excited to launch Shot Online in two new languages, so we can give hundreds of thousands of players worldwide the chance to experience this great game”, says Sven Ossenbrüggen, CEO gamigo AG. “With the new versions of Shot Online and other great, free games coming up in additional languages, we are showing our commitment to expanding our influence in the European gaming business.”


Shot Online will be released as a beta version in mid August, with a completely free final version following shortly afterwards later. Players can go to the official website www.shot-online.eu right now, and already register to be one of the first players to check out the new versions.

EA's 'Spore' a week from being finished


'Spore' developers were surprised by a user's creation of this skeleton because they didn't think this kind of figure was possible

read more | digg story

NCsoft Immortalises Video Gamers In Space


Online game company to send digital time capsule with human DNA on Richard Garriott's journey to International Space Station

Could you be the saviour of humankind? NCsoft, the world’s leading publisher and developer of online computer games, has announced it will launch the “Immortality Drive” – a time capsule with the digitised DNA of select video game players* and space aficionados – into orbit when famed game designer Richard Garriott travels to the International Space Station in October 2008.

As part of NCsoft’s “Operation Immortality,” Richard Garriott – the man who created Tabula Rasa, a massively multiplayer online (MMO) PC game that explores the destruction of Earth – is now venturing into space to save humanity.



During the campaign, U.S. Tabula Rasa players have a chance to have their DNA sequenced, digitised and sent into space on the Immortality Drive. In addition, all players worldwide with active retail accounts on September 2, 2008 will have their Tabula Rasa characters uploaded to the device, giving them the opportunity to go to space virtually. In order to make this unique opportunity accessible to as many people as possible, free trials of the game are available at

http://www.plaync.com/eu/trials/rgtr. Garriott will place the Immortality Drive on the International Space Station when he travels there in autumn.
“I’ve been able to do some very exciting things in the games business, but nothing of this magnitude,” said Garriott, executive producer for Tabula Rasa at NCsoft. “I’m thrilled we can offer the once in a lifetime chance to millions of gamers to virtually go to space with me. A select few U.S. players will have their DNA digitised and sent. And, theoretically, if anything happens to the human race, it could be their DNA that is used to resurrect humanity.”
Starting today and lasting through August 31, 2008, anyone with a PC and an Internet connection can go to http://www.operationimmortality.com and participate in weekly polls on humanity’s greatest achievements which will be included on the Immortality Drive, such as “What is the greatest song of all time?” and “What is the greatest technological breakthrough of all time?” Current Tabula Rasa players, or those who download and play the free trial, will also be able to enter a personal message for inclusion on the Drive.
“This is your chance to leave your mark,” says Garriott. “While everyone can participate in the polls at http://www.operationimmortality.com, Tabula Rasa players will be the only gamers in the universe who can say that a piece of them is in space, since we’re sending their in-game alter-egos, and for some, their DNA, to space with me.”
Tabula Rasa, which launched November 2007, is an intense, fast-paced, sci-fi MMO PC game that puts you in the middle of the never-ending intergalactic fight for freedom against a hostile alien race called the Bane. Players use high-tech weaponry, alien powers, and the help of other Allied Free Sentients (AFS) soldiers to rid the universe of the Bane threat.

With frequent free updates to players, the game world of Tabula Rasa has grown significantly since launch. Upcoming features to the game include clan-owned Control Points, new missions, and Personal Armor Units.

No purchase is necessary to participate in Operation Immortality, with free trials of Richard Garriott’s Tabula Rasa available at http://www.plaync.com/eu/trials/rgtr. The game is currently available at most major retailers and at http://www.plaync.com/eu/store/. The retail box includes the first month of online game play. After the first month, players will be charged a monthly subscription fee of £8.99 / €12.99.

For information about Operation Immortality, including full terms and conditions, go to http://www.operationimmortality.com. For information on Richard Garriott’s Tabula Rasa go to http://www.rgtr.com/.

The DNA part of this campaign promotion is available to residents in the U.S. only. European law prohibits participation.

Jewel Quest Expeditions and Mah Jong Quest Expeditions on Nintendo DS

Jewel Quest Expeditions and Mah Jong Quest Expeditions on Nintendo DS. Following on from the success of these hugely popular casual games on PC, these two classic puzzles will launch in September 2008.

Jewel Quest Expeditions DS

With over 15 million players worldwide on PC, Jewel Quest is a much loved gem-matching game that provides hours of entertainment. Play as adventurer Robert Pack, travelling through Africa on a quest to unlock the mysteries of 180 unique jewel boards.

Work through each of the levels using the stylus or control pad to select adjacent rows of coloured jewels, turning the blocks underneath to gold before the timer runs out. If too much time is taken a life will be lost, but bonus points will be awarded for remaining time. Earn special moves by matching up gold coins, allowing golden blocks to be created, buried jewels to be uncovered and obstructive items removed. Enjoy the game as a single player or wirelessly link up with up to 7 friends to enter competition mode.

Mah Jong Quest Expeditions DS

This popular ancient Chinese game has been enjoyed by over 4 million players worldwide on PC. The new DS version features classic Mah Jong gameplay with an intriguing twist, guaranteed to challenge anyone looking for a brain workout. As the world has fallen into a state of imbalance, teenage hero Kwazi is split into male (White) and female (Black). Players must restore harmony to the world by guiding the two Kwazis through 8 mystical lands and 64 different puzzle boards.

Choose from Quest, Classic or Puzzle mode to work through the levels, using the stylus or control pad to match pairs of tiles. The puzzle board must be cleared before time runs out; points are won for every match made and matching four identical tiles in a row with extra bonuses awarded for remaining time.

Fast facts:
Publisher: Avanquest Software Publishing
Developer: iWin, Inc.
Distributor: Open
Release date: 12th September 2008
PEGI: 3+
Format: Nintendo DS
Genre: Puzzle
SRP: £19.99

Pet Pals Wii announced


JoWooD Productions is pleased to announce it has taken over as publisher for Pet Pals Wii™ in the European market. By adding this title to its 2008 line-up, the Austrian Publisher is targeting young players between the ages of 6 and 12 and fans of other kids & family games such as “Paint by DS”, “Matchstick Puzzle by DS” or “Music Monstars”.

"Nonviolent & educational“ – these demands of most parents are met with Pet Pals Wii. Children are taught responsibility for their pets in a fun and entertaining way. With the unique features of the Wii Remote, the player can even take over the role of the veterinarian to save sick or injured animals.

Inputs from veterinarians during the development of the project have contributed to the authenticity in Pet Pals Wii, guaranteeing an outstanding gaming experience.

Galaxy on Fire 2 - Mobile Cellphone video game


FISHLABS presents the second part of the spectacular 3D space shooter for mobile phones

Fans of outer space shooters can prepare themselves for tough battles: FISHLABS, leading developer of premium 3D mobile phone games, presents the second part of their multi-award-winning space shooter Galaxy on Fire™. The new mobile game, which will be released in the late autumn of this year, ties in to its highly praised predecessor and once again sets new standards in the field of 3D mobile games.

In this thrilling outer space episode, the mercenary Keith Maxwell, the hero of the first part, is catapulted through time and space by a malfunction in his spaceship’s hyperdrive. He wakes up 35 years later and finds himself in a changed galaxy, where the balance of power is gravely threatened: an unknown race has invaded the known space of the galaxy using wormhole technology and threatens the existing balance of power.

The successor to the award-winning Galaxy on Fire impresses with sensational 3D graphics, outstanding gameplay, and a thrilling story. The gigantic galaxy, with over 20 solar systems, Includes 100 unique space stations, completely rendered in 3D, with an extensive trading system, mission boards, and upgrade possibilities for ships and equipment.

The stirring story, with over 10 hours of dramatic space adventures guaranteed, skilfully combines mission-based and free gameplay. Players can choose from among more than 30 individual spaceships and equip them with countless weapons and equipment for the battle against the enemy. Mini-games offer the opportunity to land on asteroids and mine ore, in order to manufacture special equipment and trade goods later. Using new special weapons, squadron gameplay, and the ability to take control of firing turrets, players combat against dozens of opponents from different races and fractions in most diverse battle situations.

‘The first part of Galaxy on Fire, which appeared a good three years ago, was our first really big 3D title. The game was revolutionary in its graphics and game depth and earned nothing but top scores in countless tests. Naturally, the expectations for the second part in our fan community are just as high,’ says Michael Schade, CEO of FISHLABS Entertainment GmbH. ‘There is good reason we took our time with the sequel, and we are sure that Galaxy on Fire 2, with its improved graphics and completely new gameplay elements, will even surpass the success of its predecessor.’

Master of the Monster Lair - Nintendo DS game delayed to October


A shovel with insider information and the rare ability to speak aloud has just broken the story that Master of the Monster Lair has slipped out of September and is now scheduled for release on October 21.
“It seems as though Nintendo DS adventurers in search of dungeon-crafting, monster hunting and loot collection will have to wait a little while longer,” stated the trowel, matter-of-factly.
Master of the Monster Lair for Nintendo DS lets players create the dungeon of their dreams, trying to lure in a variety of monsters carrying different types of items and treasure. True master lair architects can trade designs with a friend via local wireless. Dig these features and more when Master of the Monster Lair releases on October 21, 2008.

Official game demo for puzzle-strategy title Red Bull BC One for Nintendo DS

Official game demo for the upcoming puzzle-strategy title Red Bull BC One for Nintendo DS.

To preview the game, click here and stay tuned for Ignition Entertainment's official launch of the Red Bull BC One game site, coming soon!

Red Bull BC One is one of the most important B-Boy competitions in the world. The legendary battle hosts 16 of the world's best B-Boys in a one-on-one, knock-out-battle to determine who is The One. See the latest Red Bull BC One trailers, screenshots, game facts, wallpapers, and access the entire Red Bull BC One universe at www.redbullbcone.com. Visitors will also have the opportunity to view past battles, create their own B-Boy profile and peruse profiles of more than 180 other B-Boys and find out more about the 2008 Red Bull BC One competition this fall in Paris, France.


The Red Bull BC One game lets players become a champion B-Boy. Using the touch screen functionality on your Nintendo DS, you'll control the action of your very own B-Boy by solving puzzles breaking combos under increasingly tough time limits. Set a high score that's worth bragging about and advance your player to the next round. Coupled with a unique graphic flare, 35 original musical tracks and a variety of mini-games, a quick, steady hand and some creativity will throw you right into the Red Bull BC One arena.

FEATURES:
  • Officially licensed game, featuring the world of Red Bull BC One competitions
  • 36 battles throughout 8 stages in story mode, plus training mode
  • 70+ different dance animations
  • Many un-lockable mini games and items
  • 35 unique music tracks
  • 3D backgrounds (basketball court, urban street, beach and more)
  • Multiple customization options (outfits, hair, shoes and more)
  • Battle against a friend in wireless multiplayer mode!
  • Look for Red Bull BC One to break its way into stores September 16, 2008.

Gamedaily - Top 25 Xbox Games

Gamedaily Top 25 Xbox games...



01. Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic (LucasArts)
02. Halo 2 (Microsoft)
03. Ninja Gaiden (Tecmo)
04. Halo (Microsoft)


05. ESPN NFL 2K5 (Sega)
06. Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas (Rockstar Games)
07. Oddworld: Stranger's Wrath (Electronic Arts)
08. Burnout 3: Takedown (Electronic Arts)
09. Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time (Ubisoft)
10. Jet Set Radio Future (Sega)


11. Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell: Chaos Theory (Ubisoft)
12. Crimson Skies: High Road To Revenge (Microsoft)
13. SSX 3 (EA Sports Big)
14. Jade Empire (Microsoft)
15. The Chronicles of Riddick: Escape From Butcher's Bay (Vivendi Games)
16. Psychonauts (Majesco)


17. Beyond Good and Evil (Ubisoft)
18. Fable (Microsoft)
19. Mercenaries (LucasArts)
20. Panzer Dragoon Orta (Sega)


21. Dead Or Alive 3 (Tecmo)
22. Unreal Championship 2 (Midway)
23. Star Wars Battlefront II (LucasArts)
24. Project Gotham Racing 2 (Microsoft)
25. The Incredible Hulk: Ultimate Destruction (Sierra)

Exclusive Lego Universe Video Offers First Game Glimpse


Lego Universe developer NetDevil has given us an exclusive peek into Lego Universe, the massive multiplayer online game where you can use bricks to collaboratively "build in real time", having adventures through maps that span across all Lego themes: from Space to City to Pirates to Ninjas to Underwater, everything will be in there.

read more | digg story

New Virtual Reality video games with VR920 Video Eyewear


The first video eyewear specifically designed to let you step inside virtual worlds, MMOs and 3D games. No more staring at flat screens. The iWear VR920 allows you to enter virtual worlds and communicate with others as if you are really there.

Experience cyberspace like never before
Step inside with the Vuzix iWear VR920, the world’s first Internet communications and gaming solution that incorporates immersive big-screen 3D, head tracking, microphone and audio. You can move, look around, listen, and communicate with others - almost like being in the ‘real’ world. The iWear VR920 opens amazing new doors to the World Wide Web.



Price: $399.95 (USD)

The Upgraded VR920 v2.2 software adds support for 11 new titles; including Halo, Grand Theft Auto and Lord of the Rings Online.

Version 2.2 Software, expanding the number of VR920 virtual reality supported titles to 62. The v2.2 software provides the user with superior 3D visual quality and compatibility with virtually any graphics card on a 32-bit Windows XP or Vista system. The 11 new titles include:
• Halo: Combat Evolved
• Lord of the Rings Online
• Far Cry
• Falcon 4.0
• Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas
• EverQuest II
• Final Fantasy XI
• PlanetSide
• Spore: Creature Creator
• Quake Wards
• X-Plane 9.0
Additionally, v2.2 software upgrade includes Vuzix 3D Stereoscopy and/or head-tracking expanded support for 20 previously supported games. These titles include:
• Call of Duty (multiple titles)
• Roller Coaster Tycoon 3
• Doom 3
• Quake 4
• Crysis
• Half-Life (multiple titles)
• Team Fortress 2
• The Ship
• Dark Messiah
• Garry’s Mod
• Dystopia
• Hidden
• Hypercube
• Insurgency
For a complete list of titles, please visit www.vuzix.com.

Reblog this post [with Zemanta]

Apple v Microsoft as the British Technology Awards Unveils Shortlist


Sony and Nintendo dominate "best of rest"; nods to BBC for its hugely popular iPlayer

The shortlist for the inaugural British Technology Awards has been unveiled, confirming the British public’s love for all things Apple.

In total, the firm has bagged 11 nominations across the event’s 13 award categories – though Microsoft is close behind with nine.

VOTE HERE NOW...

The iPhone, iPod Touch, iTunes and Macbook Air all feature heavily, whilst Microsoft technologies such as Xbox 360, Windows Live, Windows Vista and Windows Media Player 11 also vie for attention.

The British Technology Awards will also pit three of the Internet’s heavyweights against each other, as the public decides which is more popular: Facebook, YouTube or the BBC iPlayer.

Following weeks of intensive open nominations, organiser Incisive Media – publisher of ComputerActive, Personal Computer World and Gizmodo – now bracing itself for thousands of votes, as Britain’s gadget fans declare their loyalties.

Thanks to the unique way the awards are structured, the British Technology Awards will see some interesting battles. iTunes is up against Audacity and Guitar Hero in the Music Technology category. The BBC iPlayer takes on the Sony PlayStation 3 and Sky in the Home Entertainment Technology category. And who can predict the winner of Most Indispensable Technology, when the nominations include Google Maps, the Appile iPod, Virgin Media, Sky and Facebook?

Paul Allen, editor of ComputerActive comments: “The British Technology Awards have been designed to be the most mainstream awards of their kind. This isn’t the place for a ‘Best Flastcreen TV’ category – we want to know what the man, woman, young, old on the street thinks. These awards aren’t the preserve of audiovisual nerds – they’re real people who use and enjoy technology on a day to day basis, and we can’t wait to find out how they vote.”

No other technology accolades have the scope and scale of the British Technology Awards. Consumers are the primary focus, with all categories voted for exclusively by the public.

13 awards will be won, across diverse categories as Best Kids Technology, Most Indispensable Technology and Technological Innovation of the year. Rather than restrict the awards to a narrow shortlist, the BTAs should see some interesting battles, as technologies from different sectors compete for the ultimate goal.

Voting on the shortlist is taking place now. The winners will be announced in October 2008.

The shortlist in full:

Gadget of the Year
Apple iPhone
Apple iPod Touch
TomTom Go 720
Nokia N95
Blackberry Curve
Fujifilm F100fd
Archos 605
Slingbox


Music Technology
Apple iTunes
Windows Media Player 11
Audacity
Play.com
Guitar Hero
Ion USB turntable
Creative X-Fi
Napster


Business Technology of the Year
Asus Eee PC
3 3G USB Modem
RIM Blackberry Curve
Panasonic Toughbook
Vodafone USB 3G modem
Intel low-power Xeon quad-core processor
HP Compaq ultra-slim dc7800 PC
Microsoft Windows Server 2008


Best Home Entertainment Technology
BBC iPlayer
Nintendo Wii
Freeview
Sky
Panasonic Viera HDTV series
Sony Bravia HD LCD TVs
Sony PS3
Microsoft Xbox 360


Best Kids Technology
Nintendo DS
Windows Vista parental controls
Advent Kids laptop
Scalextric Digital
Hornby DCC trainsets
Lego Mindstorms NXT
Fisher Price Kid Tough digital camera
Bebo


Most Stylish Technology
Apple iPhone
Apple Macbook Air
Sony Vaio TZ
Acer Ferrari ultraportable laptop
Canon SX100 IS camera
LG Viewty
Dell XPS One
Samsung LE series LCD TVs


Best Gaming Technology
Nintendo Wii
Nintendo Wii Fit
Sony PS3
Microsoft Xbox 360
Microsoft Flight Simulator X
Nintendo DS
Guitar Hero
Sony PSP


Best Mobile Technology
Apple iPhone
Nintendo DS
RIM Blackberry Curve
Nokia N810
Asus Eee PC
Sony PSP
Google Mobile
Samsung Q1 Ultra


Most Indispensable Technology
Google Maps
BT Broadband
Apple iPod
BBC iPlayer
Sky
Apple iPhone
Virgin Media
Facebook


Technological Innovation of the Year
Apple iPhone
Windows Vista
Intel Core 2 Quad processors
Apple Macbook Air
Asus Eee PC
Adobe Photoshop Express
Belkin Wireless USB Hub
Google Docs / Apps


Best Online Technology
BBC iPlayer
Skype
You Tube
Facebook
Google Docs
Windows Live
BT Digital Vault
Pinnacle PCTV to go


Retailer of the Year
Amazon
Play.com
John Lewis
Ebuyer
Tesco Direct
PC World
Maplins
Argos


Greenest Technology of the Year
Bye Bye standby
Toyota Prius
Windows Vista
Lexus LS600H
Fujitsu Siemens Scenicview P22W-5 ECO
G-Wizz
Oneclick Intellipanel
Apple OS X

In-Game Advertising to Rising Eagle, a Free-To-Play First-Person Shooter


Rising Eagle - Futuristic Infantry Warfare, a new and free-to-play first-person shooter. The debut title from Israeli developer Invasion Interactive, Rising Eagle is a team-based tactical combat game designed for online competitive and cooperative play, featuring realistic urban cityscapes as well as a range of exciting game modes and weaponry. The PC game can be downloaded at www.rising-eagle.com.
The Rising Eagle announcement builds off the momentum of other ad-sponsored launches -- original titles such as Trackmania and the highly-anticipated Quake Live both leverage the benefits of IGA’s in-game advertising, creating value for the entire gaming community.
The partnership with IGA benefits advertisers, publishers, developers, and players. Advertisers access a coveted, highly engaged demographic; publishers harness advertising revenue to offset rising development costs; developers continue to create compelling story lines and advanced game play features; and consumers are able to enjoy revolutionary titles such as Rising Eagle free-of-charge.



On behalf of premium advertisers, IGA places relevant, contextual advertisements within the game’s dynamic urban environment. Seeing familiar well-known brands on billboards and shop fronts further enhances the all-encompassing sense of realism for the gamer.

Ed Bartlett, VP Publisher Relations – Europe of IGA Worldwide says: “The release of a top tier title like Rising Eagle: Futuristic Infantry Warfare for free demonstrates IGA’s continued drive to offset the rapidly rising cost of developing premium games. As in-game ad budgets steadily increase the “freemium” model which IGA pioneered will further illustrate the company’s commitment to bringing games to market in a manner that benefits consumers, developers, publishers and advertisers.



Yaron Dotan, CEO of Invasion Interactive says: “The ability to freely distribute a high quality shooter such as Rising Eagle, while maintaining a solid revenue stream from in-game advertising, is a revolutionary capability made possible by IGA Worldwide. Having the ad-serving technology easily accessed through a single point of contact enables us to focus our efforts on delivering quality game-play experiences.”

Cabal Online - Perfect World II - Free to play MMORPG video games


Cabal Online have announced a new multiple language contract for "Perfect World II" with Perfect World Co., Ltd. (Nasdaq: PWRD), a top online games developer and operator in China.

The exclusive agreement will see Games-Masters.com publish multiple languages including English, German, Spanish, Turkish and French of the widely acclaimed online role playing game "Perfect World II" in 2008.

Since "Perfect World II's" release in 2006, the free-to-play online game has taken the Asian market by storm, winning a host of awards and topping gaming charts around the region and attracts millions of players worldwide.

"Perfect World II" is a vast online role-playing game set in a fantasy world with many extra features such as character customization to an unprecedented in game level with self built characters. In addition the fighting experience is taken to literally a new level with extensive fighting whilst in flight to offer the gamer a truly unique 3D experience.

The excitement is further enhanced by Guild territory ownership and the ability for guilds to build structures on their territory. The world has its battles and quests in land, sea and air in a huge, open and continuous world with different areas is real time simulations with a natural day-and-night-cycle, changing weather (sun, rain, thunder, snow, clouds ...).

Millions of players experience an immersive and huge open world, with an unbelievable number of varied quests, varied terrains and highly challenging dungeons, bosses and a complex game-economy. There is a massive crafting system, with pets and tame animals to ride if you are good enough!

The integrated chat system, the in and out Game Messenger and the individual mailing system also brings a new standard of communication in the world of Massive Multiplayer Online Role- Playing Games (MMORPG).

In a rare and welcome move, "Perfect World II" will be hosted and localized into multiple languages. Ian Powell, Chairman of Games-masters.com Ltd, said "The ""Perfect World II" Multi-language service, free-to-play game, will present MMORPG players across Europe with a new level in gaming. We fully expect the game to become one of the most popular games in Europe, reaffirming Games-Masters.com's ambition to be the leading provider of international MMO games in Europe."

"Perfect World II" MS (Multilanguage Service) is set for release in 2nd half year 2008, starting with a localized German and Spanish version in addition to English. This will be followed by releases in other languages in early 2009, as well, to provide one of the most comprehensive localizations ever seen in the games market. For more information and BETA pre-registration visit the official website at http://www.perfectworld.ms or http://www.perfectworldeurope.com

Reblog this post [with Zemanta]

Tuesday, July 29, 2008

Birth of America II - Wars in America out soon on PC

Birth of America II: Wars in America 1750-1815 is the sequel to the successful strategy PC game Birth of America. Due for release in September 2008 by Ascaron and AGEOD, the new battle strategy game allows players to experience historic wars in North America between the years of 1750 and 1815.

Turn based strategic gameplay requires players to decide tactical moves in order to win each campaign, destroying their opponent’s armies and conquering and defending certain cities. Birth of America II: Wars in America 1750-1815 is based on true historical events and uses authentic characters and units to allow players to experience important historical American events.

Birth of America II: Wars in America 1750-1815 features new scenarios that include; Dunmore’s War (1773-1774), the Battle of Fallen Timbers (1794) and the Battle of New Orleans (1815), all offering the player the opportunity to experience genuine historic battles. Improved AI and a new turn based strategy system truly enhance gameplay, whilst the Replay option allows victorious moves to be viewed again and shared with friends.


This latest version of the Birth of America series also features new orders such as; “spike the guns”, “surrender with the Honour of War”, “remove a leader” and “unload ships from a distance”. There are also different updates and rules including combat, Indians, minutemen, blockades, naval transport and German mercenaries.



Extensive maps that cover America and Europe create a highly realistic and authentic battle strategy experience, whilst in-game music is recreated with historical accuracy. Players can truly immerse themselves in the experience of commanding infamous historic American battles.

Fast facts:
Publisher: Ascaron Entertainment
Web: www.Ascaron.com
Developer: AGEOD
Release date: 19th September 2008
PEGI: 3+
Format: PC
Genre: Historical Strategy

Ace Combat 6 - Fires of Liberation new content to download

Xbox Live Market Place Downloadable Content. Available 24 July 2008 Special Aircrafts Colors

CFA-44 –ACES -
(200 Microsoft Points)
A fighter with a streamlined payload and excellent maneuverability. After all, a remarkable sense of control is the sign of a true ace!

Rafale M –ESPADA - (Free)
A heavy command cruiser escort, this fighter's improved turning ability places it at the pinnacle of air combat. Despite a decrease in speed performance, Its light and quick movement ensure its dominance over the enemy. The Sapin Air Force 9th Air and Land Division 11th Tactical Fighter Squadron, Espada. This squadron has fought in countless battles as they evolved from a group of mercenaries to members of the terrorist group "A World With No Boundaries".