Guild Wars Tops sells five million games in under three years

Guild Wars Tops Five Million Units Sold

Guild Wars franchise breaks major milestone in less than three years.

NCsoft Europe and ArenaNet have announced that the Guild Wars franchise of online roleplaying games has surpassed five million units sold in Europe, North America, and Asia.

Published by NCsoft and developed by ArenaNet, the Guild Wars franchise consists of the original Guild Wars, Guild Wars Factions, Guild Wars Nightfall, and the recently released expansion, Guild Wars: Eye of the North. The Guild Wars games have been commercial and critical successes since the release of the original campaign in April of 2005. Its award-winning content and innovative subscription-free business model have created a large and loyal following that is highly anticipating Guild Wars 2.

“Guild Wars is a proven success and has set a new standard for online RPG games with its unique business model and superior playability,” said NCsoft CEO Taek Jin Kim. “ArenaNet is dedicated to creating games that expand the market and provide great new content to our loyal player base. This success has built a great foundation from which the next generation of Guild Wars games will grow.”

With the development of Guild Wars 2 underway, ArenaNet will continue to provide dedicated support to current Guild Wars games and its millions of customers.

“Reaching the five million mark is extremely gratifying for us at ArenaNet because it shows the hard work and dedication we put into our games has resonated with the fans,” said Mike O’Brien, co-founder of ArenaNet. “We are committed to supporting all of our Guild Wars players, and at the same time, we’re extremely excited to work on the game’s evolution. Certainly the future of Guild Wars is as bright as its past and present.”

For more information on the Guild Wars franchise, visit the Guild Wars website at www.discoverguildwars.com. The award-winning Guild Wars series, including the recently released Guild Wars: Eye of the North, can be purchased from retailers or downloaded from the PlayNC store at http://eu.plaync.com/eu/store/.

Two Worlds To Get Bigger And Better Online Downloadable Content Packs To Add All-New Multiplayer Mode And Expand Online World Of Antaloor

Two Worlds To Get Bigger And Better Online

Downloadable Content Packs To Add All-New Multiplayer Mode And Expand Online World Of Antaloor

SouthPeak Games has announced two downloadable content expansions for its open-world role-playing hit, Two Worlds. Both packs will be made available through Xbox LIVE for the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, expanding and improving the game’s online multiplayer experience.

The two expansions will add a host of new content to the vibrant and populous multiplayer universe of Two Worlds, featuring first and foremost an entirely new player-versus-player mode based around controlling key areas of a multiplayer map. Along with this new strategic play mode, additional maps, co-operative missions and a suite of new weapons are also included, adding a considerable amount of play time to the already content-packed world of Antaloor.

“Two Worlds has been a huge success for SouthPeak and much of its appeal can be credited to having a huge game-world to explore,” said Melanie Mroz, CEO of SouthPeak Games. “Reality Pump has worked tirelessly to improve the multiplayer experience and this new downloadable content is geared towards expanding upon it, offering lots of new missions and areas to explore with friends.”

The first expansion pack for Two Worlds will be available for download in March, with the second becoming available in April. Both will cost 600 MS points.

Hurry Up Hedgehog! Nintendo DS video game Fact Sheet

Hurry Up Hedgehog! Fact Sheet

Hurry your hedgehog's home with Hurry Up Hedgehog!

An intriguing brainteaser challenging the whole family to shrewdly manoeuvre their way to victory. Jostling against the canniest critters in the garden players must dodge hazards, out-smart their friends and use cunning to race their hedgehog’s home.

Hurry Up Hedgehog! – Race, creep, jostle and out-manoeuvre in this intriguing multi-player brainteaser for all ages.

Features:
- Hurry Up Hedgehog! game play dynamic is based on the popular board game Igel Ärgern (also known as Egelrace) loosely translated "Hedgehogs in a Hurry” and designed by Doris Matthäus and Frank Nestel.
- Board layout: Consists of 6 numbered lanes each 9 columns long.
- Single DS Multiplayer and Multi-Card Multiplayer for up 6 players.
- 6 graphic sets, and 5 rule customisation options, allowing for -32 unique ways to play
- Stylus control througout

The Facts:

Title: Hurry Up Hedgehog!
Formats: NDS
PEGI: 3+
Publisher: Oxygen Games
Developer: Ivolgamus
RRP: £19.99
Release: 28th March 2007

Codemasters confirm Overlord: Raising Hell, a compendium of tyrannical treats, is coming to the Sony PLAYSTATION 3

Prepare for a hellishly good time being bad with

Think evil, breed evil and control all (with lots of laughs along the way) as Codemasters confirms new edition of acclaimed action adventure.

The deliciously despotic Overlord and his horde of raucous minions will return this summer as Codemasters® announces that Overlord: Raising Hell, a compendium of tyrannical treats, is coming to the PLAYSTATION 3 computer entertainment system.

The creation of Dutch developer Triumph Studios, the original Overlord was a best seller in 2007 when published for the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and PC. Overlord: Raising Hell will mark the game's first appearance on the PLAYSTATION 3 system and deliver the complete Overlord experience, including all expansion content, in one exclusive edition.

Set in a seriously twisted fantasy world, Overlord: Raising Hell is an action adventure that has players being ruthless, determined, and even a little despotic as they pillage lands and conquer kingdoms in order to be proclaimed the all-powerful Overlord. At the heart of the game is an army of slavish little creatures known as Minions, and their presence provides Overlord: Raising Hell with its deliciously dark comedic touches.

Totally loyal to their Overlord, Minions will use their unique skills to fetch, fight and even die for him. Opportunists by nature, a Minion will rob an opponent of a mighty axe to arm themselves with and steal armour to wear for protection. Players will amass armies of up to 50 Minions as they explore and conquer the world's five domains. Use the Minions tactically and they'll always be on hand, ready to sacrifice themselves just to save the Overlord's illustrious arse.

Overlord: Raising Hell takes players deeper into the Overlord's warped world with a series of additional hellish levels, each a supernatural abyss for the game's five kingdoms.
With the undead denizens of each abyss on the attack and threatening the Overlord's superiority, there's only one thing for it: assemble the Minions, descend into each abyss and embark on a fresh wave of tyranny in order to claim the underworld throne.

In addition to offering a complete collection of Overlord content, including online co-operative pillaging and head-to-head slaughter, the PLAYSTATION 3 system edition will also be enhanced with detailed visuals, a top-spec audio system with 7.1 surround sound and gameplay refinements, such as the addition of an on-screen mini-map.

Prepare for a fresh wave of feudal fun when Overlord: Raising Hell launches this summer for the PLAYSTATION 3 system. For all the latest on the game, be sure to visit www.codemasters.com/overlordraisinghell

Anchorcast Entertainment Unleashes Groundbreaking 2D Shooter Action with Core Fighter

Anchorcast Entertainment Unleashes Groundbreaking 2D Shooter Action with Core Fighter

Waco, TX, USA - 26 Feb. 2008 - Anchorcast Entertainment (http://www.anchorcast.net/) today announced the release of Core Fighter, a fast-paced 2D shooter melding thrilling top-down action with free-roaming exploration. Core Fighter brings the streamlined features of a modern first-person shooter to the classic gameplay of 2D action games from the past.

Core Fighter allows players to choose a spacecraft and take it into a futuristic science fiction setting. After choosing their ship, players explore the corridors of a space station, the tunnels of an abandoned mining complex, and the depths of space itself.

Core Fighter represents a remarkable departure from space shooters of the past,? says Christian Seehausen, President and lead designer, Anchorcast Entertainment. While other futuristic shoot-'em-ups force players onto a linear path, Core Fighter lets them to explore their environment and choose for themselves where they want to go, which secrets to uncover, and which enemies to fight next.

At Anchorcast Entertainment, we believe that players love choices.In Core Fighter, we allow them to not only choose which ship to fly, but also to customize it with weapons and upgrades of their choice, unlocked by exploring the game's environments.

In Core Fighter, aliens have taken control of an abandoned mining outpost and the robots within. Players must fight their way through corridors, tunnels, and asteroid belts filled with hundreds of enemies all bristling with high-tech futuristic weaponry. Players can take advantage of full 360-degree shooting, combining their piloting skills with fast aim to beat the harsh odds laid against them.

Core Fighter is available for Windows PC systems, and is suitable for players of all ages. Find out more about Core Fighter or try the demo today by visiting its website at http://www.anchorcast.net/corefighter/.

Features:
-Fast-paced top-down shooting action
-Three different ship classes: Light, Medium, and Heavy
-Ten levels spread across three stunning environments
-Twelve hard-earned Achievements
-Over 24 powerful weapons and upgrades
-Eight distinct types of enemies
-Special abilities like Cloak and Afterburners

Reason Gaming Announce Female Counter Strike Source Team

Reason Gaming Announce Female Counter Strike Source Team

All Girl Squad to Compete at Multiplay i33 LAN This Easter



After recent success as champions of the IG5 Counter Strike Source tournament, Reason Gaming have expanded their Counter Strike Source division to include an all female team.

Selected from the most dedicated female players in the UK, Reason management has been working hard to identify and integrate this new team into the organisation. “Female gaming is a huge growth area and there are a lot of talented players out there looking to play at a competitive level. With our male team considered among the best in Europe it makes perfect sense to take on a female squad and help them develop.” states general manager Ben Dalloway.

Training several nights a week the squad are picking up tactics and developing team work that will equip them for future online and offline events.

“Myself and all the girls are really excited about joining Reason Gaming, we are very passionate about Counter Strike Source and can’t wait to represent Reason at future events” confirmed squad leader Amy Matthews.

The team’s first LAN event will be Multiplay i33 where they will compete against 75+ teams for a total prize fund of €10,000.

“As an all female team these girls will train and compete against male and female teams in leagues and events, breaking down the barriers between genders in gaming. Skill, aim and game knowledge is not dependent upon what sex you are but on how hard you train and how dedicated you are to the game, Reason plan to support more female teams in the future” confirmed Adam Godfrey, founder of Reason Gaming.

Puzzle Quest: Challenge of the Warlords – Mobile Cellphone Game

Multi- Award Winner - Puzzle Quest: Challenge of the Warlords – Mobile Game



The only puzzler to achieve both huge critical acclaim and be one of the biggest-selling games, arrives on mobile! The stroke of brilliance is in the combination of addictive ‘matching gems’ puzzle game, with added furious spell attacks, plus adventure fantasy.

Puzzle Quest is a truly original game that is impossible to put down. Players choose their hero from 8 characters out of 4 diverse classes, each with very different strengths, in a quest throughout the land. Opponents are defeated by the skillful who match runes and use this rune manna to strike with amazing magic spells, that are learnt along the adventure, for devastating effect!

• Addictive combat system based on classic puzzle game formulas and enhanced with a flexible magic system.
  
• Rewarding and varied character development system with four character classes to choose from.
  
• A fully customizable weapons system.
  
• An epic story revolving around the balance between four magical elements.
  
• 13 different enemy types with a unique boss character to fight.
  
• Develop and learn 45 different spells.
  
• Impressive fantasy-themed audiovisuals.
  
• Developed by award-winning THQ studio, Universomo
  
• Awarded by the websites Airgamer, Handy Player and Mobile Games FAQ
  

To get Puzzle Quest: Challenge of the Warlords on your mobile simply text “THQ PQ” to 88188.

The game costs £4.50 which is a one off charge.

DEAD SPACE RELEASE DATE ANNOUNCED

DEAD SPACE RELEASE DATE ANNOUNCED

EA's New Survival Horror IP Set for Halloween Launch

Electronic Arts today announced that new sci-fi survival horror game Dead Space will be in European and North American stores on October 31st for the PLAYSTATION 3 computer entertainment system and the Xbox 360 videogame and entertainment system.

“Survival horror is about experiencing a terrifying, and deeply personal fiction,” said Executive Producer Glen Schofield. “Dead Space is being developed as a single-player thriller that delivers the chilling, claustrophobic feeling of being isolated in a dark environment, while being stalked by some truly horrific enemies. Halloween is the perfect time for EA to deliver the fear and anxiety that will keep survival horror fans up playing all night.”

Gamers can check out the new trailer and get all the latest dev team news at the newly redesigned and relaunched Dead Space website at www.deadspacegame.com.

Under development at EA Redwood Shores, Dead Space is not yet rated by PEGI or ESRB.

UK games chart week ending 23 Feb

All formats

(Full price) Week ending 23 February 2008

1 MARIO & SONIC AT THE OLYMPIC GAMES SEGA
2 CALL OF DUTY 4: MODERN WARFARE ACTIVISION
3 DEVIL MAY CRY 4 CAPCOM
4 TUROK DISNEY INTERACTIVE STUDIOS
5 FIFA 08 ELECTRONIC ARTS
6 UNREAL TOURNAMENT III MIDWAY
7 THE SIMPSONS GAME ELECTRONIC ARTS
8 FIFA STREET 3 ELECTRONIC ARTS
9 COOKING MAMA 2 505 GAMES
10 ASSASSIN'S CREED UBISOFT
11 BURNOUT PARADISE ELECTRONIC ARTS
12 NEED FOR SPEED: PROSTREET ELECTRONIC ARTS
13 GUITAR HERO III: LEGENDS OF ROCK ACTIVISION
14 CONFLICT: DENIED OPS EIDOS
15 NEW SUPER MARIO BROS. NINTENDO
16 WWE SMACKDOWN VS RAW 2008 THQ
17 PRO EVOLUTION SOCCER 2008 KONAMI
18 LEGO STAR WARS: THE COMPLETE SAGA LUCASARTS
19 PDC WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP DARTS 08 OXYGEN INTERACTIVE
20 SONIC AND THE SECRET RINGS SEGA

Angels Online: New Items for Totem Battle & Wartime

Angels Online: New Items for Totem Battle & Wartime

With the Totem Battle opening and Double Experience activity going on, this time Angels Online (http://ao.igg.com) from IGG would like to give players some pleasant surprises.

SURPRISE 1
In order to make players appear in battle wearing the best equipment and riding cool mounts, the AO team has prepared some cool new items in the Item Mall. The new items include some cool lucky bags as well as new paper dolls. It’s for sure these items will add more fun to your gaming experience.
For more information please visit us at: http://ao.igg.com/news/news.php?aid=528

SURPRISE 2
During the upcoming Totem Battle the AO team is looking for wartime journalists to document and report on what happens during the events. If your character has the courage to stay right on the front lines during battle, do not hesitate to apply.

For more information please visit us at:
http://ao.igg.com/news/news.php?aid=535

About TOTEM BATTLE:
Totem Battle is actually a PVP battle between 2 leagues, with 1 league defending the totem, and the other attacking it. Player’s leagues can occupy certain territories by destroying the totems during an attack. After occupying the territory, players are able to deal with traders, exploit special materials, accept special quests, and challenge special Bosses.

Gravity Interactive Begins Requiem: Bloodymare Closed Beta

Gravity Interactive Begins Requiem: Bloodymare Closed Beta

Beta Accounts Available on FilePlanet

The closed beta for Requiem: Bloodymare starts Tuesday, Feb. 26.

Requiem: Bloodymare portrays a post-apocalyptic world where genetic manipulation and dark magic have resulted in war, famine and truly grotesque monsters. Players take the role of the genetically-enhanced and magically-adept Temperion soldiers, powerful beings who hold the last best hope for Ethegia.

FilePlanet registered users will have a limited quantity of accounts available at 4 p.m. PST on Tuesday, Feb. 26 at www.fileplanet.com.

On Friday, Feb. 29, MMORPG.com and MMOSITE.com will also have a number of codes available on a first come, first served basis.

For those that registered on www.playrequiem.com but didn’t get a code, Gravity Interactive will offer another chance to participate in the closed beta. As space allows, the company will randomly select from the pool of registered accounts and grant them access as the beta period progresses.

SAGA Enters Open Beta to all players for SAGA- the persistent world MMORTS

SAGA Enters Open Beta

Silverlode Interactive opened its servers to all players for SAGA- the persistent world MMORTS.

The World’s First Collectible MMORTS entered Open Beta testing on Tuesday, February 26th, 2008. All players who sign up at www.playsaga.com will receive accounts, allowing them to create nations on the Beta servers. For the duration of the Beta test, all game features will be unlocked and available to testers. At release, a full unlocked copy of SAGA will cost $19.95; however, promotions will be available during the open beta period to purchase the full version of SAGA at a reduced price.

During the stress test conducted on Saturday, February 23rd, the servers performed excellently, with no crashes or other server issues. The SAGA servers are expected to support up to 20,000 players per realm with thousands of simultaneous users. Should a greater-than-expected number of players attempt to login to the world at the same time, a login queue will be implemented and additional realms will be brought online.

Go now to www.playsaga.com to check out SAGA Open Beta!

Big beach Sports Exclusively For Nintendo Wii

THQ Announces Big beach Sports Exclusively For Wii

THQ Inc. today announced Big Beach Sports is anticipated to bring outdoor sports action to beach goers worldwide in summer 2008. Currently in development exclusively for the Wii system, Big Beach Sports will let gamers compete in a number of exciting outdoor sports including American football, volleyball, soccer, cricket, disc golf and bocce right on the beach.

“Big Beach Sports drops players into a seaside resort setting with a wide variety of compelling outdoor sports to play and master,” said Randy Shoemaker, director, global brand management, THQ. “Sports including bocce, cricket and disc golf are making their Wii debuts and combined with the inclusion of more traditional games like soccer, American football and volleyball, Big Beach Sports will be an appealing title for the growing audience of Wii gamers.”

“The innovative Wii Remote controller has revolutionized sports gaming, letting us involve the player like never before,” said Steve Dauterman, senior vice president of product development, THQ. “Big Beach Sports applies the control scheme to each of the varied sports featured, letting players pick up and play the games they know and learn the ones they don’t know.”

Put your maths skills to the test with Maths Play on Nintendo DS

Maths Play (Nintendo DS)

Release Date: 14-Mar-2008
SRP/RRP: TBA

Put your maths skills to the test as you arrange colorful numbered cards and create equations in four challenging game play modes. With a variety of difficulty levels, competitive multiplayer action and addictive puzzle play, Maths Play is a wonderful game for the whole family, young and old alike. No matter how you play, it adds up to great fun!

Features:
4 Brain Boosting Game Modes:

• Drill: Create an equation by rearranging the cards in your hands. Be careful: one of your cards is an intrude; tap on it, and it will flip over and become an equal symbol (=).
  
• Shuffle: Kind of a dominos game with equations! The game starts with 2 cards: a number (= the base) and an equal symbol. Use the cards in your hand to complete the equation: place a number or an equation on the other side of the equal symbol that has the same value as the base number. Go on with making equations from the numbers displayed. If you cannot create an equation using the cards in your hand, tap “Draw” to draw a card. If you are still unable to make an equation, tap “Pass” and wait for your next turn. The first person to use all of the cards in his hand wins. To obtain an equal symbol, tap on a card of your choice.
  
• Match: This mode uses the Uno gameplay mechanics. Your objective: be the first to use all your cards. A base card is displayed (like the yellow 3 on the screen on the right). Create an equation that equals the base or use a number or color that matches the base to lay down as many cards as possible. If the base card is a symbol, you can match the symbol or color of the card. Draw a card if you can’t play any cards in your hand.
  
• Nine: Create an equation that is closest to nine without going over. You start with two number cards. You can ask for a third number card, but be careful: you must use all the cards you were dealt. If you go over 9, you lose! The person closest to nine wins the round.
  
• Game options: Each game mode offers number of game options allowing an individual customization of the game. In this way, you can set your own rules for each game: -set a time limit to solve the puzzles, -decide the quantity of opponents you want to have, chose the score you have to reach in order to win the game, -Chose the difficulty of the equations

* Multiplayer mode up to 5 players: For even more fun, battle against your friends and family using Nintendo DS™ Wireless connection features. This mode requires only one game cartridge.

Cruis'n coming to Nintendo Wii

Cruis'n

Release Date: 15-Feb-2008
Age Rating: PEGI 3+
Platform: Nintendo Wii
Genre: Arcade Compilation

An all new version of the classic Midway arcade racer, Cruis’n is coming exclusively to the Wii. Choose your ride from an impressive lineup of licensed cars and experience a rush of adrenaline as you race opponents through twelve different street circuits using the Wii Remote to steer and perform outrageous stunts. Win races and earn upgrades including: turbos, body kits, neon and nitrous, allowing you to create the ultimate ride.

Features:

• Midway arcade racing classic with fast action, crazy stunts, close finisehes and customizable rides that you can drive using the Wii remote.
  
• Win races and earn points to upgrade your cars with spoilers, engines, tyres, body kits and turbo kits in the Cruis'n shop.
  
• The game features tracks in 12 cities and licensed cars from Toyota, Nissan, Dodge, Pontiac, Chevy and Mitsubishi
  

Atlus Pulls The Trigger On Persona 3 FES

Atlus Pulls The Trigger On Persona 3 FES For North America

Revisit the Dark Hour this April 22

Atlus U.S.A., Inc., the vanguard of role-playing games, today announced Persona 3 FES for the PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system, the highly-anticipated definitive cut of 2007's RPG of the Year, Persona 3. With two games on one disc-a brand new chapter featuring 30+ hours of gameplay and an enhanced version of the original game loaded with new content and features-Persona 3 FES is the comprehensive version of one of the most acclaimed RPGs of 2007.

Persona 3 FES is a stand-alone product and does not require the original Persona 3 to play. However, players with save files from the original game will be able to transfer some of their saved data, such as their Persona compendium, to be used in the enhanced main story. The new story is accessible from the start and does not require players to finish the original game beforehand.

Persona 3 FES is scheduled for release on April 22nd for an MSRP of $29.99.

For more on Persona 3 FES, please visit the official website: http://www.atlus.com/persona3

Triggerheart Exelica Scrolls Onto Xbox LIVE Arcade

"Triggerheart Exelica" Scrolls Onto Xbox LIVE Arcade

A unique spin on a classic shooter, players can capture enemies with anchors and fling them away with “Triggerheart Exelica.” The vertical scrolling shooter deploys on Xbox LIVE Arcade on Wednesday 27th February at 09.00.

“Triggerheart Exelica” on Xbox LIVE Arcade is an upgraded version of the original Japanese arcade game and allows players to take down or trap-and-toss enemies by controlling humanoid weapons systems known as Triggerhearts. Players will enjoy the smallest and newest model of Triggerhearts, which feature the perfect combination of artificial intelligence and an imposing arsenal. They are the ultimate weapon against the mysterious enemy ships of the Ver’mith! “Triggerheart Exelica” also features five stages of enhanced graphics, BGM sound tracks, three difficulty levels and a “Variable Boss Attack System,” which adjusts the difficulty level to match player’s skills.

Where can I get this game from?
Triggerheart Exelica will be available worldwide for 800 Microsoft Points.

More information is available at http://www.xbox.com/en-US/games/t/triggerheartxboxlivearcade

GuildCafe Announces the Next Guild Wars Competition

GuildCafe Announces the Next Guild Wars Competition

Top Players Organize the Next Installment of the 2008 Rawr Cup, sponsored by GuildCafe.com and KillerNIC.com

GuildCafe.com announced that the next competition within the Guild Wars 2008 Rawr Cup series will be held on April 5, 2008, featuring a new tournament committee led by top players and featuring new prize sponsors including the KillerNIC from Bigfoot Networks.

"The first installment of the 2008 Rawr Cup exceeded all of our expectations," explained Jackie Vu, captain of the GuildCafe Tournament Committee. "This time we wanted to build on the event by bringing more of the Guild Wars community into the competition’s leadership."

The April 5 competition has grown beyond its roots to become a 100% community-run event. The next installment is organized by the GuildCafe Tournament Committee, which includes top Guild Wars players including Melissa of [LaZy], Billiard, Ekelon, Joey Knight and Awowa Classic. Like the first installment, the April 5 competition will feature three divisions: Phoenix, Dragon and Tiger—intended to make the event accessible to all Guild Wars players.

"One of the things we’re most excited about is that GuildCafe events are becoming the place where players compete for the most advanced gaming hardware," said Jon Radoff, CEO of GuildCafe.com. Winners of the Phoenix division, intended to attract top-ladder teams, will receive a Killer NIC Gaming Network Card from Bigfoot Networks. The Killer NIC is designed to reduce lag and latency in high action MMO and First Person Shooter games for a smoother, more responsive experience and a competitive edge.

Because registration to the event is limited, teams and players are encouraged to sign up for the event early. Registration is completely free, and usually takes less than a minute. Visit: http://www.guildcafe.com/tournament

wipEout HD fact sheet on Sony PlayStation 3

wipEout HD

FACT SHEET

Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc.
Developer: Sony Computer Entertainment Europe (Studio Liverpool)
Platform: PLAYSTATION 3 (PS3) computer entertainment system
Genre: Action-Oriented Racing
Players: Single-player, 2 to 8 players via wireless multiplayer connectivity
Launch Date: TBA
Rating: “RP” for Rating Pending

OVERVIEW

Get ready to race at blazing speeds and experience adrenaline-filled, anti-gravity racing action in full-1080p High Definition (HD) running at a breathtaking 60-frames-per-second on PLAYSTATION 3 (PS3). Coming to the PLAYSTATION Store soon, wipEout HD is set to redefine anti-gravity combat racing.

Featuring a selection of the best tracks taken from previous versions of the wipEout® franchise, wipEout HD offers meticulously crafted and fully reworked tracks that showcase the processing power of PS3. And for the first time, players will have the option to navigate their ships utilizing the SIXAXIS™ wireless controller’s motion sensing technology.

Additionally, players will be able to take on the best competition from around the world in online multiplayer modes as up to eight players will be able to compete against each other in a range of online races. And to keep the adrenaline flowing, wipEout HD will include nine tracks from wipEout Pulse soundtrack, all remixed in 5.1 Dolby surround including artists like Kraftwerk, Booka Shade and Noisia.

Available exclusively by download on the PLAYSTATION Store, wipEout HD will set a new standard for the future of the iconic anti-gravity racing series.

KEY FEATURES

• PS3 – Get ready to experience wipEout in full-HD 1080p resolution at 60-frames-per-second. Greater processing power of PS3 enables more immersive visuals and sound effects in wipEout HD, heightening the speed within the stunningly beautiful environments.
  
• SIXAXIS wireless controller – wipEout HD provides full support of the SIXAXIS wireless controller to give the player a variety of choices and depth of control unseen in any previous iteration of wipEout.
  
• Tracks – A selection of the best tracks taken from previous wipEout titles, meticulously crafted and fully reworked from the ground-up to showcase the full-HD resolution.
  
• Vineta K – On the southern shores of Makana Island, the circuit at Vineta K snakes in and out of the ocean and across the beaches. The highlights of this 4.4km track include spectacular underwater tunnels and cutting-edge architecture along the waterfront.
  
• Chenghou Project –The feature-packed circuit at Chenghou Project weaves its way around the offices and corporate buildings of Makana Island's business district. The 4.8 km track contains a tricky inverse-cambered spiral and culminates in a long jump into the tunnelled entry of the final chicane.
  
• Sebenco Climb – The 4.8 km Sebenco Climb track is cut into the hillsides of Makana's Sebenco mountain range. It features a steep traverse up the snowy mountainside, followed by a breathtaking plunge into an icy tunnel carved through the very heart of the mountain. The final section takes pilots through a challengingly tight chicane before they swing back onto the grid.
  
• Sol 2 – The 4.4 km Sol 2 circuit hangs suspended in the clouds high above Makana Island. Consisting of a series of fast-flowing, occasionally open-sided corners linked by sweeping straights, the combination of harsh sunlight and blind summits ensure that Sol 2 is a test of nerve for every speed class.
  
• Ubermall – In the heart of Makana Island's commercial zone is Ubermall, a 4.6 km circuit built into a vast shopping centre. The latter half of the track contains a brief split which rejoins into a narrow hill, followed by an outdoor park section that leads swiftly to the finish.
  
• Anulpha Pass – The 5 km Anulpha Pass track is located in a custom-built entertainment arena on the east side of Makana Island. Although the track looks deceptively simple from above, the undulations of the track surface and narrow skill-cut are enough to keep any racer on their toes.
  
• Moa Therma – The immense man-made complex of Moa Therma is located just off the northern coast of Sicily, with around a third of the track surface built using mag-strip technology. The centrepiece of this 5.3 km circuit is the gigantic horizontal loop which sits just above sea level.
  
• Metropia – The 4.7 km Metropia circuit weaves its way between the skyscrapers and traffic control towers that dominate the Kyoto skyline. Glass-bottomed track surfaces and a stunning vertical mag-strip drop into the depths of the city are just two of the highlights of this popular track.
  
• Teams – wipEout HD features eight teams from wipEout Pulse, including: Feisar, Assegai, AG-Systems, Qirex, Piranha, Triakis, Goteki45 and EG-X.
  
• Pilot Assist – Get help navigating your way around the HD circuits with the new Pilot assist feature.
  
• Five Race Modes – wipEout HD features five race modes, including: Single Race, Tournament, Time Trial, Speed Lap and Zone Mode.
  
• Difficulty Levels – wipEout HD offers three difficulty levels; adjustable independent of speed class.
  
• Online Multiplayer – Up to eight players will be able to compete against each other in a range of online races, across several game modes.
  
• Additional Content via Download – Extra game content will be made available to download and plug directly into the main game, including extra teams and ships, extra tracks and additional events for the race campaign mode.
  
• Photo mode – During any race, pause the game and select the Photo Mode option. You can choose which ship will be the focus of the camera, and adjust the camera angle, zoom level, and so on. Images are saved to your HDD.
  
• A Full Arsenal of Weapons – Choose from a wide range of weapons including missiles, rockets, mines and the brand new leech beam.
  
• Score Posting – Post your best lap times and race records in game (for both offline and online modes) and compare them against other wipEout players across the globe.
  
• Pumping soundtrack – Feel the beat with 9 fully licensed music tracks, all remixed in Dolby 5.1 surround sound for an even more intense game experience.
  
• Custom Play lists – As if that wasn't enough, wipEout HD also supports 'Custom Play lists': playback your own music using play lists created in the PS3 XMB™ (Xross Media Bar).
  

SEGA's Valkyria Chronicles Role-Playing Game Heads to the PLAYSTATION 3

SEGA's Valkyria Chronicles Journeys To The West

Visually Stunning Role-Playing Game Heads to the PLAYSTATION 3

SEGA of America, Inc. and SEGA Europe Ltd. today announced that Valkyria Chronicles a fresh new take on the traditional role-playing genre, is coming exclusively to the PLAYSTATION 3 computer entertainment system. Soon to be released as Valkyria of the Battlefield: Gallian Chronicles in Japan, where it has already gathered the interest of legions of gamers, Valkyria Chronicles combines strategy elements of tactical role-playing games with real-time action sequences. All of this is played out in an innovative and beautiful visual style.

Valkyria Chronicles is set in a fictitious continent reminiscent of 1930s Europe - divided in two and ruled by the Empire and the Federation. The Empire has set its sights on invading a small neutral country called Gallia, which is situated in the middle of the two great empires. The game follows a hero named Welkin and his fellow soldiers of the Federation’s 7th Platoon as they engage in a series of epic battles.

Built upon the new “CANVAS” engine, developed internally by SEGA Game Studios Japan, Valkyria Chronicles’ stunning 3D graphics resemble a watercolor painting in motion, taking full advantage of the processing capabilities of the PLAYSTATION 3. The power of the PLAYSTATION 3 also allows the development team to exploit the full potential of this new engine, giving players many different stunning environments to explore. A new type of tactical battle mechanic has been specifically designed for Valkyria Chronicles. Known as “BLiTZ,” this gives players freedom to strategically move around the environment and attack enemies using real-time controls, something never before seen in the tactical role-playing game genre. The new “CANVAS” engine technology, the “BLiTZ” battle concept and an epic storyline offers players hours of exciting gameplay.

“Valkyria Chronicles has been enthusiastically requested by European fans” said Gary Knight, European Marketing Director SEGA Europe ltd. “The unique graphics and compelling gameplay are just two reasons why we’re delighted to bring it to them.”

Ubisoft to bid for game licences rather than major takeover - Guillemot

Ubisoft Entertainment may speed up its expansion plans as a result of the bid by Electronic Arts for Take Two Interactive Software but is targeting the purchase of new licences for games rather than a major takeover, Yves Guillemot, chairman of the French video games maker, told Les Echos.

'The desire of EA to buy Take Two pushes us to go faster, to accelerate internal growth but also to look at acquisition opportunities,' the business daily quoted him as saying.

Ubisoft shares fell 1.85 pct yesterday after investors decided that EA's bid for Take Two meant the US games giant is less likely to seek to acquire its French rival, in which EA holds 25 pct of voting rights.

Source: Forbes AFX

Wii Homebrew add Linux emulators, mp3, how to get home brew on the Wii

"Fans of Homebrew on the Nintendo Wii can celebrate with an explosion of releases today, in just a few hours there has been a release of a proof of concept version of Linux for the Wii, an MP3 Player, the Super Nintendo emulator Snes9X has been ported and a converter that converts Gamecube Dol files into Elf for usage on the Wii (Which opens up a multitude of emulators and homebrew games and applications).

A tutorial on how to get homebrew working with the Twilight Hack will help those interested."

Source: Slashdot games

Video Game Review: Turok

The “Turok” series has been dead for a long time.

When the game first came out for Nintendo 64, it was heralded as one of the best console first-person shooters. The two proper sequels that followed improved upon their predecessor.

But when Turok Evolution came out on the next generation of consoles, the world wept as their favorite Native American hero was featured in what many considered to be one of the worst games ever. Now, almost six years later, the franchise is back with a Xbox 360 title, simply called “Turok.”

This game has potential but falls short in almost every area.

The story is about space marines that must find a war criminal on an unknown planet and bring him back to earth. As players progress, bits and pieces about Turok and the war criminal, Kane, will be revealed through some very cool flashbacks. The flashbacks will make Turok seem more human and develop his character better than anything else in the game. That’s a problem. The flashbacks may be cool, but the story never picks up. Deeper things are hinted at and the dialog can be funny at times, but it just seems like a summer flick that relies too much on explosions and action with not enough story development. It’s just too bad that the depth isn’t there. Much of that is also due to the fact that the game is beatable in two sittings.

The gameplay is generic but works. Some areas of the game seem to hand out cheap deaths, and can get frustrating as hell. After the short campaign, players can play the typical capture-the-flag and death match modes online. The only thing that sets these modes apart is the inclusion of dinosaurs and bugs on the maps that will constantly attack everyone in the match. One neat online mode is a four-person co-op mode. Unfortunately the mode only has three maps to play, more potential that never gets built upon.

It was hard to love this game. I liked it, but could never stop thinking of what this game might have been if only it had spent more time in development. Hopefully the next “Turok” game doesn’t take so long to come out, and the developers take the time to build on all of the potential laid out in this game to make a worthy sequel.

Source: Advance Titan

Video Game Review: Chibi Robo: Park Patrol

The “Chibi Robo” series is vastly overlooked. In today’s gaming world filled with hyper-realistic graphics and violence-fueled platforms, Chibi Robo: Park Patrol may be too cutesy for most. However, by passing up this game because of its cuteness, gamers are doing themselves a great disservice and missing out on a fun game.

The point of Chibi Robo is to grow flowers in a park and get visitors to come to this barren wasteland. The environment is in trouble and Citrusoft, the makers of the Chibi Robo units, are making special Chibi units to clean up the parks for free. In order for the four-inch hero to get more flowers into the park, he must dance to make the plant send out more buds. It is a strange concept, but it’s a lot of fun. Then, armed with his trusty squirter, Chibi must water all of the buds and continue to do this until the park is green again. Every action is controlled with the touch screen.

During his mission to restore the park, Chibi can also collect happy points to upgrade himself, buy new items and even get vehicles to make traveling faster. Mini games are also sprinkled around through out, the best one being five-pin bowling.
There are very few enemies in the game. Chibi will only have to fight Smoglings and Smoglobbs. This tends to make the game repetitious. Even though the game can get a little boring with the same tasks being performed every day, somehow the new items for sale and mini games keep the game just fresh enough.

Chibi Robo: Park Patrol is a charming game for everyone. Although not as good as the GameCube iteration, it still deserves to be played by fans of the series and gamers looking for a fun DS game. The game is only available at Wal-Mart, and I urge everyone to buy it so Nintendo makes a Chibi game for the Wii.

Source: Advance Titan