Super Street Fighter II Turbo HD on Microsoft XBox 360 live and PlayStation networkRemix Fact Sheet

Super Street Fighter II Turbo HD Remix Fact Sheet

One of the most popular games of the early '90s is reborn! Super Street Fighter II Turbo HD Remix, originally developed by Capcom for the arcade, makes its downloadable debut on the Xbox LIVE Arcade and PLAYSTATION Network. Capcom will maintain the integrity of the popular game by utilizing the original game code while upgrading the graphics with new artwork and high resolution 1080p images. Again, all of the art, from character animation to stage backgrounds, will be completely redrawn by Udon Entertainment, the company responsible for the US Street Fighter series of comics. Super Street Fighter II Turbo HD Remix will include both online and offline competition for one or two players.

All new 1080p high-definition art for Street Fighter characters and backgrounds created by Udon Entertainment, creators of the Street Fighter comic books

Features all 17 of the original Super Street Fighter II Turbo characters including Ryu, Guile, M. Bison and Akuma

New optional "Rebalanced" Mode: massive changes across the board to all Street Fighter characters as created and tested by some the world's top-ranked professional Street Fighter players

• One to two player head-to-head play either offline or online
  
• Single player vs. CPU
  
• Player vs. player over the same console
  
• Player vs. player online
  

Training mode helps fighters hone their skills
Improved network code for the best possible online fighting game experience

• Numerous online features:
  
• In-game voice chatting between players
  
• Matchmaking flexibility through multiple options
  
• Personal and friends statistics tracking
  
• Quarter Match Mode– this spectator-based system allows online competitors (2 competitors and up to 4 spectators) to use a "virtual quarter" to "buy into" heated two player matches
  
• Comprehensive worldwide rankings and leader boards by character - tracks overall wins and losses, number of throws, perfects, highest combos and more
  

Widescreen support with option to select classic 4:3 mode for SF purists
Choose from either classic Super Street Fighter II Turbo music or optional newly remixed tunes

Option to play as the original Super Street Fighter II Turbo 2D sprites for traditionalists

CAPCOM EXPANDS THE FROZEN FRONTIERS OF GAMING WITH LOST PLANET COLONIES EDITION FOR XBOX 360 AND WINDOWS PC

CAPCOM EXPANDS THE FROZEN FRONTIERS OF GAMING WITH LOST PLANET COLONIES EDITION FOR XBOX 360 AND WINDOWS PC

COLONIES EDITION Adds New Maps, Modes, Weapons with Lower Platinum Hits

Capcom, a leading worldwide developer and publisher of video games, today announced that Lost Planet: Extreme Condition COLONIES EDITION is in development for the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft as well as a version for Windows-based PCs that will support Games for Windows – LIVE. Scheduled for Platinum Hits release this June in North America, Lost Planet COLONIES EDITION extends the acclaimed Lost Planet experience by delivering fresh new content and gameplay options, as well as online cross-platform play between both the Xbox 360 and Windows-based PCs using Xbox LIVE and Games for Windows - LIVE. Both SKUs of the game will offer excellent value, with the Xbox 360 version achieving Platinum Hits status. Lost Planet COLONIES EDITION is rated T for Teen by the Entertainment Software Ratings Board (ESRB) and will be released on both Windows PCs and Xbox 360 on May 27 for the Platinum Hits value price of $29.99.

Lost Planet COLONIES EDITION provides the same compelling single player experience found in the original Lost Planet: Extreme Condition, with the addition of three new modes. In Score Attack, all enemies have points assigned to them and the score awarded will change depending on how they are defeated, with skilled marksmen being rewarded. For those who thrive on a challenge, Trial Battle Mode delivers, pitting players against all of the game’s bosses, one after another. Players of both Score Attack and Trial Battle modes will be able to compare their skills and compete for bragging rights via the online ranking system. Finally things get a little crazy with Off Limit Mode which lets players take on Lost Planet’s harsh environments and enemies with over-the-top, super-charged weapons and a powered-up grappling hook.

Fans of multiplayer action will not be disappointed as Lost Planet COLONIES EDITION allows them to enjoy a host of new maps, characters, weapons and gameplay modes. Players turn poacher as they attempt to steal opponents’ alien Akrid eggs in a number of individual and team play modes, while the addition of VS Annihilator Mode assigns one robotic Vital Suit to each team, which must be defended at all cost. Lost Planet COLONIES EDITION also includes the feature that Lost Planet fans across the globe have been clamoring for – the ability to play as a gigantic marauding Akrid. Revel in the chance to turn the tables on the Snow Pirates as you assume the role of one of E.D.E.N. III’s indigenous creatures in Akrid Hunting mode.

All of these modes can be played across a total of 20 diverse maps, including a number of brand-new multiplayer arenas set in areas such as the confines of an ancient coliseum or the zero gravity of space. For the first time, Xbox 360 owners will be able to join up with or play against Windows-based PC gamers, thanks to Lost Planet COLONIES EDITION’s cross-platform compatibility.

Lost Planet Extreme Condition – COLONIES EDITION includes everything that made the original Lost Planet a hit on 360, Windows PC and PLAYSTATION 3 computer entertainment system, as well as the following new features:

New modes for single-player campaign

• Score Attack – Each enemy and destructible object has points assigned to them, with the player being awarded different points depending on how they defeat the enemy.
  
• Trial Battle Mode – Take on each of the game’s Bosses, one after another
  
• Off limit Mode – Go wild with over-the-top super-charged weapons with unlimited ammunition and increased speed of movement
  

New online modes

• Akrid Hunter – Get the chance to finally play as an Akrid as your opponents attempt to take you down
  
• VS Annihilator – Each team attempts to destroy its opponent’s VS while defending its own
  
• Counter Grab – The team with the longest data posts activation time wins
  
• Point Snatcher – Take down opponents and collect the most thermal energy points
  
• Akrid Egg Battle – Steal Akrid eggs from the opponent’s team and bring them safely back to your own base
  
• Egg Bandit – steal your opponents’ Akrid egg, with points awarded for longer capture time
  

• 4 new maps for online matches: Crossfire City, Area 921, Lost Arena, Assault Space
  
• 5 new playable character models
  
• Multiple new weapons for both snow pirates and the robotic VS suits
  
• Cross-platform Battles – Xbox 360 owners can join forces or play against PC gamers
  
• New perspectives – Switch to first person view or the over-the-shoulder view from Resident Evil 4 for even more intense action
  

NOTE: Lost Planet COLONIES EDITION and the original Lost Planet: Extreme Condition are not compatible. Single-player saves and online rankings cannot be carried over and multiplayer games will be separate.

For more information on Lost Planet, please visit the official site at http://www.lostplanet-thegame.com or join the growing community of fans at http://www.lostplanetcommunity.com

Lost Planet: Extreme Condition COLONIES EDITION Fact Sheet

Lost Planet: Extreme Condition COLONIES EDITION Fact Sheet

Lost Planet: Extreme Condition Colonies Edition provides explosive action for both online and offline players. Gamers who missed the original Lost Planet will have the opportunity to experience the epic gameplay that made the original a global hit with the added bonus of fresh new content and cross platform multi-play all at a great value price. Fans of the Lost Planet’s online action will be thrilled at the inclusion of new online modes, maps, weapons and models.

New modes for single player campaign

• Score Attack – Each enemy and destructible object has points assigned to them, with the player being awarded different points depending on how they defeat the enemy.
• Trial Battle Mode – Take on each of the game’s Bosses, one after another
• Off Limit Mode – Go wild with over-the-top, super-charged weapons with unlimited ammunition and increased speed of movement
New online modes
• Akrid Hunter – Get the chance to finally play as an Akrid as your opponents attempt to take you down
• VS Annihilator – Each team attempts to destroy its opponent’s VS while defending its own
• CounterGrab – The team with the longest data post activation time wins
• Point Snatcher – Take down opponents and collect the most thermal energy points
• Akrid Egg Battle – Steal Akrid eggs from the opponent’s team and bring them safely back to your own base
• Egg Bandit – steal your opponents’ Akrid egg, with points awarded for longer capture times
Four new multiplayer maps
• Crossfire City – the wide streets provide an excellent opportunity for VS battles, while buildings provide great cover for sharp-eyed snipers
• Area 921– Two industrial compounds located in a vast desert and linked by an underground pipe
• Lost Arena – The central arena is ideal for VS pilots to act as futuristic gladiators, while those on foot can use the surrounding grandstands as their battleground
• Assault Space – Set onboard a space ship and its supply vessel, zero gravity is sure to make for some interesting encounters
New playable characters
• Two female and two robot characters are added to the roster of choices for online personas to choose from, bringing the total to 11
• 5 new playable character models
New weapons (human)
• Hand Gun – weak in power, but very accurate and easy to use
• Revolver – The expert’s one-shot kill weapon of choice at close quarters
• Flame Launcher – Uses thermal energy to lay down a wall of fire
• Hand Cannon – A handgun-like rocket launcher that is very effective against VS suits
New weapons (VS)
• Pile Bunker – A long spike fires out at immense speed
• VS Rifle – VS-dedicated rifle which has the longest range and loses no power regardless of the distance
• Rocket Pod – Shoot off a salvo of rockets to cause immense damage to a specific area
• Laser Lance – Attack with a sweeping arc of devastation
New Environments
• Snowstorms, arctic winds, towering mountains of ice are all stunningly realized, creating a truly immersive and cinematic event of epic proportions.
New perspectives
• Switch to first person view or the over-the-shoulder view from Resident Evil™ 4 for even more intense action
Cross Platform Play
• XBOX 360 and PC users can now compete on the same battlefield

NOTE: Lost Planet COLONIES EDITION and the original Lost Planet: Extreme Condition are not compatible. Single-player saves and online rankings cannot be carried over and multiplayer games will be separate.

SEGA redefine RPG games with Alpha Protocol on Microsoft XBox 360 PC and PlayStation 3

SEGA And Obsidian Set To Redefine The RPG Genre With Alpha Protocol

The Modern Day Espionage RPG Will Set The Bar In 2009

SEGA Europe Ltd. and Obsidian Entertainment, Inc. today announced a thrilling new espionage role-playing game set in the modern world - Alpha Protocol. Alpha Protocol is developed by the globally revered and genre defining development studio, Obsidian Entertainment, known for smash hits such as Star Wars: Knights Of The Old Republic II: The Sith Lords and Neverwinter Nights 2. This exciting new game will set the world alight on the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system, the PLAYSTATION 3 computer entertainment system and Windows-based PCs in 2009.

“Alpha Protocol blends Obsidian’s knack for intricate stories, engrossing characters, and significant character advancement with fast-paced modern combat,” said Feargus Urquhart, CEO of Obsidian Entertainment. “Alpha Protocol embraces everything we enjoy about making RPGs from a fresh perspective. We are confident our talented staff at Obsidian will enable us to deliver this exciting RPG experience.”

Loyalty carries a price and no one knows this more than agent Michael Thorton. A talented young agent cast out by his government, Thorton is the only one with the information needed to stop an impending international catastrophe. To do so means he must cut himself off from the very people he is sworn to protect. As players determine how to accomplish different objectives, the decisions made and actions taken in each mission will ultimately transform the type of secret agent Michael Thorton will become. Every choice the player makes as Michael Thorton will carry consequences for his future and the fate of the world.

“Working with Obsidian Entertainment on a project of this stature is incredibly exciting for SEGA. We have one of the best independent developers working on what will be one of the definitive games of 2009,” stated Gary Knight, European Marketing Director, SEGA Europe Ltd. “With innovative RPG action and an incredible interactive storyline to match the very best spy-thrillers, Alpha Protocol delivers a heart thumping high definition experience.”

Alpha Protocol is set for global domination on the Xbox 360, the PlayStation 3 and PC in 2009.

For more information on Alpha Protocol, please visit www.alphaprotocol.com. For all SEGA assets for Alpha Protocol.

The Incredible Hulk video game facts for PlayStation 3 XBox 360 Nintendo DS PS2 and PC

The Incredible Hulk

Platform(s): PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Wii, DS, PS2 & PC
Category: 3rd Person Action Game
Developer: Edge of Realty/Amaze (DS)
Release: June 2008

Overview

One of Marvel’s most powerful Super Heroes unleashes epic destruction this June in Marvel Studios’ blockbuster movie, The Incredible Hulk. Along with the film, SEGA releases an intensely realistic third-person action video game available on all major video-game platforms.

Fuelled with fury, SEGA’s The Incredible Hulk features key moments from the film, as well as additional plotlines and characters from the character’s rich comic-book universe. Players smash through New York City, battling gigantic enemies amidst soaring skyscrapers in a massive open world.

As one of the most anticipated entertainment events of 2008, The Incredible Hulk will have fans lining up this summer on both the big and small screens.

Key Features:

• Unlimited Destruction: Become the Incredible Hulk and experience unlimited destruction. Players can demolish anything in their path and also use it as a weapon – pieces of a crumbling building…a passing car…a street lamp. Players can even demolish buildings with their bare hands. Damage is persistent, and gamers can use it to gain access to previously unreachable areas.

• Powerful Rage: Rage is power. Build the Hulk’s rage to learn powerful moves. Cause unheard-of damage to gain and upgrade his abilities.

• Incredible Scale: New York City’s towering skyscrapers allow for exciting vertically based gameplay, while powerful, massive enemies such as Bi-Beast and the Abomination challenge the Hulk’s might.

• Dynamic Open World: A realistic next-gen, open-world representation of Manhattan provides gamers with an immense playground of destruction that also contains sub-quests, minigames, and a story that reaches beyond the film to include elements from classic Marvel comics.

The Official "Teenage Zombies: Invasion of the Alien Brain Thingys" Website Comes to Life Nintendo DS game

The Official "Teenage Zombies: Invasion of the Alien Brain Thingys" Website Comes to Life

Drag Your Way Over to www.teenagezombiesgame.com For Screamshots, Entrail-ers and More Zombie Goodness

Brains…BRAINS…BRAINS!!! Now’s your chance to join the un-dead heroes Finnigan “Fins” Magee, Lori “Lefty” Lopez and Zach “Halfpipe” Boyd from wherever, and whenever, with the new official Teenage Zombies: Invasion of the Alien Brain Thingys website! The new site has risen today, www.teenagezombiesgame.com, and it is fully loaded with every goopy detail your tasty brain can imagine. Teenage Zombies, a fiendishly funny game published by Ignition Entertainment and developed by InLight Entertainment is set to splatter exclusively on Nintendo DS in the US on April 15, 2008 and in Europe on March 28, 2008.

“With the launch of www.teenagezombiesgame.com, the millions of DS gamers out there are going to get a really good sense of what Teenage Zombies is all about,” said Ajay Chadha, President of Ignition Entertainment USA. “With a wacky sense of humor, an awesome comic book inspired art theme, brain busting puzzles, and loads of mini-games that are an absolute blast, Teenage Zombies is one-of-a-kind and the new website completely reflects that.”

There are plenty of ways to satisfy your uncontrollable urge for Teenage Zombies info at the new site. There is a section of “Screamshots” that highlight the game’s great art scheme, a “Meet the Cask” area where you can learn all about Fins, Lefty, Halfpipe and the Big Brain’s minions, an “Entrail-ers” page that features hilarious short movies, including an exclusive, never-before seen trailer, and much more.

In Teenage Zombies, the Earth is under attack by a horde of Alien Brain… uh…Thingys! Humans, succumbing to ray-guns, mind-control, and shiny flying saucers, have failed to defend their planet and let it fall easily into the clutches of the Big Brain and his army of Brain Thingys. The only hope left for mankind is three Teenage Zombies that have arisen from a graveyard disturbed in the invasion. The un-dead trio ignore their normal human victims in favor of the pulsing pink brains they see EVERYWHERE - all the while being lured to the ultimate lunch: THE BIG BRAIN! The Big Brain soon realizes he’s overlooked this “Super Race” as they inexplicably resist mind control, are unaffected by ray-gun wounds, and devour his Brain Thingy Armies like sweets! He refocuses his efforts and resources to battle the Earth’s greatest champions: The Teenage Zombies!

For more information, log onto www.teenagezombiesgame.com

No Sony Blu-Ray for Microsoft XBox 360 consoles

Following the horrible death of the HD DVD high definition format, many had predicted (me included) that Microsoft would pretty soon be offering a Blu-ray drive for the Xbox 360. Seems like Xbox 360 owners waiting for a Blu-ray player are out of luck.



The news was broken by Aaron Greenberg, group product manager for Xbox 360:

So what does this mean for Xbox 360 owners?

It means that Microsoft has decided not to pursue a physical player and instead concentrate resources on Xbox Live online service which allow Xbox owners rent movies. Rather than be seen to be abandoning HD DVD and leaping onto the Blu-ray wagon, Microsoft wants to go it alone and break free from physical media. Perhaps Microsoft has lost faith in physical high-definition distribution and feels that a digital distribution method is better (for the company). From an anti-piracy standpoint a digital distribution system at least allows Microsoft to engage in a war with the pirates (as futile as that might be in the long run).

“Xbox is not currently in talks with Sony or the Blu-ray Association to integrate Blu-ray into the Xbox experience.”

Maybe Microsoft hopes that Xbox Live could be the road to profit for the Xbox console.

Source: ZD Net

Our House release for Nintendo DS

Building A Trophy Home Is Now Just A Stylus Stroke Away As Majesco Entertainment Announces 'Our House' For Nintendo DS

First Game from New Majesco Studios Development Team Offers Broad Appeal

Build and decorate your dream home in Our House, a new simulation for Nintendo DS announced today by Majesco Entertainment Company, an innovative provider of video games for the mass market. Developed by Majesco Studios Santa Monica, Our House puts players in the contractor's shoes, challenging them to manage work-for-hire jobs and then use those earnings to create their own custom residence. A companion title to the previously announced Wii version, Our House for DS is due in stores this holiday season.

"We are incredibly excited about the Our House franchise and this extension of it. Both DS and Wii versions leverage the innovative controls of each system to create fun, addictive games with a perennially popular theme," said Jesse Sutton, Chief Executive Officer, Majesco. "We are particularly proud that this is among the first titles to be developed by Majesco Studios whose core focus is on creating unique IP and technology with a mass market appeal."

"The central building mechanic of Our House is a perfect fit for the Touch Screen since the stylus functions as a universal improvement tool," said Bill Petro, Vice President of Internal Development and Studio Head for Majesco Studios Santa Monica. "This unique, do-it-yourself concept lets players become architect, builder, interior designer and home-owner simultaneously."

Our House allows players to design, build, remodel and decorate a wide selection of homes using the DS stylus as the ultimate building tool. Lay flooring, hang cabinets, strip wallpaper, arrange furniture and much more using the intuitive Touch Screen in 100 different mini-games.

Players choose contractor assignments from the Job Board then renovate kitchens, living rooms, bathrooms and bedrooms for eccentric homeowners with varying tastes in decor. Gamers can also drop by the local home improvement store and spend their earnings on additional tools and furnishings, including new appliances and accessories, to boost the value of their own residence and upgrade houses throughout the game.

Our House for DS is expected to ship this holiday. For additional information, please visit the newly relaunched http://www.majescoentertainment.com/.

PC action hit Shadowgrounds Survivor coming to Linux

PC action hit Shadowgrounds Survivor coming to Linux

Developer Frozenbyte teams up with fellow Finnish company IGIOS to release the underground hit action game on Linux

Finnish game developer Frozenbyte is excited to announce a partnership with Linux specialist IGIOS Ltd to port and release previously Windows-only PC action game Shadowgrounds Survivor on the Linux platform. Shadowgrounds Survivor is a third-person/top-down action game where the player takes control of three characters and faces monstrous alien invaders.

"Linux is fast becoming accepted in the mainstream and we are thrilled to take part in delivering quality games content for the platform," said Mr. Lauri Hyvarinen, Frozenbyte CEO. "Frozenbyte remains focused on great console and Windows games but the groundbreaking work of IGIOS broadens the reach of our games onto the Linux platform."

"IGIOS is going to take up the Linux gaming world by storm," said Tapio Honkonen, Chief Marketing Officer for IGIOS. "Linux is our passion and providing games for it our mission. The Linux community has done a remarkable job in making the platform more approachable in general and we aim to make it a formidable gaming platform. Linux gamers should be offered the same possibilities to enjoy great gaming content such as Shadowgrounds Survivor, and that is what we are here for."

Shadowgrounds Survivor is a third-person/top-down action game where the player takes control of three characters and faces monstrous alien invaders. The acclaimed atmosphere and gameplay mechanics of the original Shadowgrounds make a triumphant return armed with a new feature set, including detailed physics simulation and many gameplay enhancements, such as the devastating Mech and special attacks like the Napalm Flame or the mighty Brute Slayer. In addition to the thrilling Campaign mode, players can try to outsmart the aliens in the Survival mode or create their own levels and mods with the included Level Editor.

Shadowgrounds, the well-received and praised original game, will also be ported to the Linux platform. Both games will be released at the same time in spring 2008 via online distribution, with exact pricing details to be confirmed.

Shadowgrounds Survivor is currently available from retail outlets in North America and some European territories, and worldwide in online distribution channels such as Steam, GamersGate and TotalGaming.net for $19.99. The game is rated M for Mature in North America and PEGI 16+ in current European territories.

Twelve Sky massive multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) wants players to reach level 100

March to 100 in Twelve Sky

Twelve Sky, Aeria Games most highly anticipated massive multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) wants players to march their way to level 100.
A player versus player based MMORPG; Twelve Sky embodies oriental martial arts style of battling tactics. Set in ancient China in the midst of an age old conflict between three factions.
For the month of March, players who reach level 100 can get a rebate on all the experience potions they purchase through the games Item Mall.

To participate, players are required to do is post a picture of their character with a minimum level of 100 in http://forums.aeriagames.com/viewtopic.php?t=87563 and then 14 business days from when the promotion ends (March 31st) to receive their rebate.

“We want as many players to level up so they can take on the monsters that lie ahead, especially for our newly released 9-Tier Pagoda patch,” said Michael Geslani, Twelve Sky game master.
In an effort to have players ready for new content, the March to 100 promotion allows players to achieve that goal of leveling up quickly, while at the same time allowing them to stretch their money further so they can purchase more Item Mall game enhancements.

“This is great for all players and gives them an incentive to not only level up, but getting all their Aeria Points back at the same time,” Geslani said.

Cocoto Magic Circus video game ships for Nintendo Wii

Conspiracy Entertainment's "Cocoto Magic Circus" for Wii Ships to U.S. Retailers

Conspiracy Entertainment has shipped their newest title for the Nintendo Wii - "Cocoto Magic Circus," to North American retailers today.

Cocoto Magic Circus is an arcade-style shooter featuring 40 unique and exciting mini-games. The game's four progressive modes - Arcade, Training, Duel and Tournament - can accommodate up to four players. Children and parents alike will enjoy this collection of mini-games featuring humorous animated characters on a mission to save a magical fairy.

"Families nationwide are catching on to the recurring and loveable character Cocoto. The simple, cartoonish and fast-paced style of our latest release is ideal for children six years and up, and its affordable price is sure to make it a hit with families," said Sirus Ahmadi, president of Conspiracy Entertainment.

Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles Ring of Fates on Nintendo DS

Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles Ring of Fates on Nintendo DS

Met Yuri and Chelinka, twins who are destined to change the world

They live happily with their father in a small village, but their happiness comes to an abrupt end with the arrival of an ancient evil.

Armed only with their determination, courage and Chelinka's magic crystal, these brave twins set out on their quest to find their lost friends, avenge their family and heal their world.


Visit the website for more info

Brain Challenge for Microsoft Xbox LIVE Arcade launched

Gameloft's Brain Challenge for Xbox LIVE Arcade Available Now

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

“We at Gameloft have been anticipating this launch since last year and are very excited to finally offer Brain Challenge to the Xbox LIVE Arcade community,” said Gonzague de Vallois, senior vice president, publishing, Gameloft “The casual games market has exploded and Xbox LIVE Arcade is at the forefront of that by offering quality games such as Brain Challenge.”

Brain Challenge is the first brain game for Xbox LIVE Arcade and is available now to challenge the skill and intellect of players. With a daily training test that includes 5 mini-games in each category for everyday practice, Brain Challenge is sure to quickly improve your brain health. Brain Challenge features 20 mini games divided into 5 categories: Visual, Memory, Logic, Math and Focus.

The game also features:

· Select a personal coach that guides you throughout the game , gives you advice and helps you improve your capacities daily.

· Online or offline multiplayer modes with up to 4 players. Compete against other players in quizzes coupled with card based gameplay. The card based multiplayer is completely exclusive to Xbox LIVE Arcade.

· Stress mode, features multitasking and other challenges which help to improve your brain’s coping skills during stressful situations

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

Super Smash Bros Brawl causing problems with some Nintendo Wii consiles

"A very small number" of Wii owners are finding their consoles can't read the dual-layer disc used by the game. UPDATED: Nintendo claims the issue is resolved!

A thread posted by "NOA_TECH_JANE" on Nintendo's Tech Support Forums is now claiming that the missing Spectator Mode and Options issue is resolved. Has it been resolved for you? Let us know in Talkback!

There are reports of Brawl failing to boot from the Wii Menu. A few people have been experiencing read errors, and some are unable to install the firmware update that comes included on the Brawl game disc. Nintendo of America has released an official statement on the matter through a company spokesperson:

"Nintendo of America has received some reports that a very small number of Wii consoles cannot properly read the dual-layered disc for the new Super Smash Bros. Brawl game. Upon examination, Nintendo has preliminarily determined that this disc-read error is caused by the soiling of the consoles' optical lens by environmental factors such as excessive dust and cigarette smoke. Nintendo is offering to clean these systems free of charge, and recommends that consumers do not attempt to clean the systems on their own. Information regarding the cleaning service can be found at support.nintendo.com or by calling customer service at 1-800-255-3700."

NWR readers affected by this issue might do better to jump directly to the support claim form page and get it taken care of as soon as possible. Nintendo’s website claims that it will expedite the shipping of affected Wii consoles both ways to hasten the repair process.

NOA is also aware of issues people are having with the online features of Brawl. We will pass along any official statement about known problems (missing menu options, generally poor connection quality of online matches, etc.) as soon as we hear it.

Source: NMR

NEW EXPANSION FOR RAIL SIMULATOR - DUE FOR RELEASE IN MARCH!

The first official expansion for the hugely successful Rail Simulator adds the Californian route from the US release of Rail Simulator and the iconic British 08 Shunter, plus extra rolling stock, scenarios and more!



This package has been painstakingly created by RSDL - part of the original Rail Simulator development team - and has to be one of the most realistic Rail Simulator expansions ever!

Cajon Pass

The Cajon Pass route runs over 80 miles of track - drive along the route from San Bernardino in Southern California to Barstow in the north and traverse the authentic climbs and descents, embankments and cuttings. Negotiate this famous route either in Free Roam mode or in the seven challenging scenarios.

• Highly detailed Union Pacific ES44AC and SD40-2 locomotives
  
• Bonus content -black reskins for the ES44AC and SD40-2 locomotives
  
• 11 unique rolling stock wagons including 2 all-new hoppers
  
• 7 scenarios including 3 new bonus ones!
  
• Detailed and accurately placed landmarks and notable buildings
  
• Realistic sounds
  
• Authentic terrain mapping and track placement
  
• AI Train operations.
  
• Class 08 Shunter
  

This Official expansion for Rail Simulator also includes bonus extras that were not included in the US release. UK rail enthusiasts will enjoy highly detailed models of the Class 08 Shunter in 12 period liveries! 'Free Roam’ the existing UK routes in Rail Simulator or take on the challenges of Class 08 shunting in the six included scenarios.

More info here

VIVA MEDIA ANNOUNCES RELEASE OF CRAZY MACHINES 2 VIDEO GAME

VIVA MEDIA ANNOUNCES UPCOMING RELEASE OF CRAZY MACHINES 2

GO CRAZY WITH A NEW DIMENSION OF FUN!

Viva Media announced today that the much anticipated sequel to the award-winning PC title Crazy Machines, Crazy Machines 2 will release this spring. Viva Media CEO Carlo Voelker commented, “Fans of this evergreen franchise who have been waiting for this will not only be pleased but we believe that it will go beyond their expectations. The new game engine offers a whole new experience with hundreds of levels to complete, free-style game play, incredible physics and 3D graphics.”

The game will ship into retail locations in the United States and Canada in May.

Crazy Machines II features:

• New parts to tinker with, and new puzzles to solve!
• World Tour – travel with the professor to exotic locations such as the Caribbean, Alaska, and China
• Multiple solutions to every puzzle!
• Free-style mode – create, destroy, and publish your own crazy machines
• Upload and download player laboratories and rate the best of the best online!
• All-age appeal – the whole family can enjoy this title
• Exciting bonus levels
• Pristine 3D graphics
• Electrifying sound effects

Quick Facts:

Published by Viva Media, LLC
Developed by Novitas/FAKT
Release Date: May 2008
Recommended Retail Price: $19.99

Minimum System Requirements:

Win Vista/98/ME/2000 XP
800 MHz CPU, 128 MB RAM, DirectX 9 compatible graphics card with 32 MB RAM*, DirectX compatible sound card, DirectX 9.0c 100 MB available fixed disk storage, 2X CD ROM

*Phys X Aegia Card recommended