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Wednesday, August 13, 2008

Bionic Commando Rearmed is now available on PlayStation Network, Xbox LIVE Arcade, and Windows PC!

Image from IGN

Capcom's Classic Action Platformer Grapples It's Way onto Next Generation Consoles and Windows PC

Bionic Commando Rearmed, a makeover of the classic 8-bit game originally released 20 years ago, is now available for download in North America on Xbox LIVE Arcade for the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, PLAYSTATION Network, and PC. Bionic Commando Rearmed is rated Mature by the Entertainment Software Ratings Board (ESRB) and is available for 800 Microsoft Points, $9.99 on PLAYSTATION Network, or $14.99 on PC.

Bionic Commando Rearmed sees a return of the intense 2D side-scrolling, shooting and grappling action from the beloved 1988 classic game, Bionic Commando on the Nintendo Entertainment System. Bionic Commando Rearmed brings the game into the next generation with stunning new visuals, new weapons, online rankings, a reworked musical score, and newly reworked stages.

Image from IGN

Bionic Commando Rearmed also boasts a multitude of features including 2 player co-op, a frenetic multiplayer mode for up to 4 players and a series of over 50 devious challenge rooms to test your swinging skills. What’s more, each version of the game will feature unique content specific to that platform. The title will also provide cross-game bonus features, as completing parts of Bionic Commando Rearmed will unlock new content and provide secret insight into the characters and storyline behind the brand new next generation Bionic Commando.
Features:
• Classic Bionic Commando gameplay focused around the use of the bionic arm
• 2-player Co-op mode

• Local multiplayer matches for up to four players

• Total modern visual revamp, including dynamic shadows, particle effects and environmental damage

• Reworking of musical score

• Cross-game interoperability – complete specific parts of Bionic Commando Rearmed to unlock new content and hints for the Bionic Commando sequel

• Unique platform specific content for Xbox LIVE Arcade for Xbox 360 and PLAYSTATION Network

• In-game art designed by one of Capcom’s most talented artists, Shinkiro

Sudden Strike: The Last Stand beta announced


Start of beta-testing Sudden Strike - The Last Stand announced.

Sudden Strike - The Last Stand allows you to become absorbed in thrilled actions of World War II from 1941 to 1945. You tasks will vary from easy "Protect and deliver ammunition" to sabotage counter AA operations in enemy back areas and, of course, it's up to you to choose the opposing sides. There are hundreds of units with historically accurate characteristics under your command, cargo ships, delivering reinforcements, air support, landing forces and many other things.

Sudden Strike: The Last Stand is not just the sequel of Sudden Strike 3: Arms for Victory, this is the sequel with completely new damage model, balance of forces and fabulous winter battles.



There are many new abilities in Sudden Strike: The Last Stand such as ambushes in houses, landing parties, reconnaissance, transportation of infantry on tanks and many other things. In Sudden Strike: The Last Stand user interface is reworked, in order to make easier for player to control units and realize his tactics in the game. We also haven't put graphics aside - you will see many new visual effects and animations in the game.

Sudden Strike: The Last Stand works independently from Sudden Strike 3.

GoLive2's Motion sensing PC gaming controller, STIX 200


Compatible with Thousands of Free Online Games, Stix Controllers Bring Active, Motion-Sensing Gameplay to the PC

GoLive2, the independent gaming division of Playhut, Inc., today announced that Stix 200 is now available at Target Stores and Amazon.com for $49.99. Redefining the PC and online gaming experience, Stix are wireless, touch-screen controllers that allow users to play thousands of free Web-based games and Games For Windows titles with an active, motion-sensing play pattern. For the first time, players can abandon their mouse and keyboard to experience online and PC games in an entirely new way!

“Stix will be fun for the whole family - kids, grandparents and teens alike will all enjoy the unique gameplay pattern of Stix,” said Brian Zheng, President, Plahut. “Stix will redefine PC gaming, and we’re excited to finally see Stix on shelves nationwide.”

With an unprecedented level of active gameplay for PC gaming, the motion-sensitive Stix are compatible with thousands of existing, free online games. Designed for casual gamers, Stix 200 adds active gameplay to 2D online gaming. The product comes with the Stix controller and a base where the wireless signal is detected. Upon purchase, users simply plug the base into the computer through a USB plug and the Sphere automatically loads in a web browser and downloads the necessary software.

As a compliment to Stix product line, GoLive2 has also launched a free, online game portal called Sphere (http://Sphere.GoLive2.com) that provides thousands of free games to play with Stix controllers. Sphere consists of both internally-developed games designed exclusively for Stix as well as hosted games from popular online game developers that support Stix. Sphere also features a search engine that connects users to thousands of compatible online games. GoLive2 has already partnered with such top gaming sites as Amor Games and Ultimate Arcade to host their games in a Stix compatible version on Sphere. In addition, users can configure their favorite PC games to preferred Stix settings. Finally, developers of all skill levels have the ability to create new games that harness the unique Stix gameplay pattern.

In October, GoLive2 will unveil Stix 400, which is compatible with both 2D and 3D environments for the ultimate online and Games for Windows retail gaming experience. For more information on the Stix line, visit www.GoLive2.com.

Looks like a Wii controller if you ask me - Gamezplay

Aosphere, the world’s very first interactive series beta test


Aosphere, the world’s very first interactive series, will be diffused as from October 15 on the IDENTIFICTION (www.identifiction.com) platform. Ahead of the official schedule, the project developers are launching their private Beta test for international access. The closing date for subscription is September 5, 2008.

You can subscribe as from now

The first phase of the Aosphere Beta test is at launch stage, giving you the opportunity that both your subconscious and conscious selves have been yearning for, i.e. get a glimpse of the universe of Aosphere, the first interactive episodic serial due for official launching on October 15. The profiles selected will receive an activation key allowing them to play the pilot episode of the serial.

“We’re not only seeking aficionados of videogames and Point&clicks, but also adults on the lookout for new experiences, fans of TV series, role plays, adventure and so on. We want to widen our panel to as many people as possible, especially women who still represent a minority of subscribers. I also invite science fiction fans around the world to participate in the advent of Aosphere”, declares Pilou, community manager and responsible for the first selection phase.

The closing date for subscriptions for the first phase is September 5, 2008
Its aim: test the functions of the game, its playability, and evaluate the storyline and the depth of the characters. The applicants selected will receive an activation key by email to start the game phase.

Aosphere: the first of a long awaited series

Aosphere is the first interactive 3D series to be diffused every week and will start on October 15, 2008. This 100% science fiction series from Identifiction sets the stage on which political and social intrigues interweave, with the discovery of utopian horizons and your immersion in the virtual flesh of psychologically complex characters. This serial will touch on controversial topics such as racism, exile, colonization and so forth. What’s special about it? Every episode is played live and each decision is irreversible. Aosphere is focused on adventure, quest and exploration. Aosphere is available in localized versions.

Nintendo continues dominance across Europe


Nintendo has continued to dominate both the Spanish and German software sales chart for the week ended July 27, according to data provided by Media Control GfK International.

Drakensang: The Dark Eye - the PC adaptation of Germany's popular pen and paper RPG franchise - has jumped to the top of the German chart, with the standard edition in first place and the limited collectors edition in second place.

The rest of the top ten of the German chart is occupied with titles for Nintendo platforms, with Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games for the Nintendo DS being the forerunner at number three, followed by Wii Fit at four, and Guitar Hero: On Tour for the DS in fifth place.

Wii Fit and Wii play occupy the first and second places on the Spanish chart respectively, while Soulcalibur IV for the PlayStation 3 comes in at five and for the Xbox 360 at seven.

Closing the Spanish chart at nine is Metal Gear Solid 4 and 42 All-Time Classics for the DS in tenth place.

The full German software sales chart follows:
1. Drakensang: The Dark Eye (PC)
2. Drakensang: The Dark Eye - Limited Collectors Edition (PC)
3. Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games (DS)
4. Wii Fit (Wii)
5. Guitar Hero: On Tour (DS)
6. Mario Kart Wii (Wii)
7. Brain Training (DS)
8. Super Smash Bros Brawl (Wii)
9. Mario Kart DS (DS)
10. More Brain Training (DS)
The full Spanish software sales chart follows:

1. Wii Fit (Wii)
2. Wii Play (Wii)
3. Guitar Hero: On Tour (DS)
4. Super Smash Bros Brawl (Wii)
5. Soulcalibur IV (PS3)
6. Cooking Guide: Can't Decide What to Eat? (DS)
7. Soulcalibur IV (Xbox 360)
8. Buzz! Master Quiz (PSP)
9. Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots (PS3)
10. 42 All-Time Classics (DS)


Source: Games Industry

Dream of Mirror Online Celebrating 2008 Beijing Olympic Games with Version 9.5


Dream of Mirror Online has recently released version 9.5 in celebration of the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games with quests that bring the players into the Olympic spirit.

In celebration, players can receive an unreleased head gear with an Olympic theme. An Olympic event NPC located in Eversun South is where players must go to complete the new quest that has been added to the game.

For more information about DOMO, please visit http://domo.aeriagames.com.

Yu Suzuki legend leaves Sega as they move to iPhone development


Sega development legend Yu Suzuki is no longer with the company, the publisher has revealed.

During in an interview with Gamasutra, Sega of America president Simon Jeffery said: "Last I heard, he was doing some online stuff in China."

"He's kind of his own man right now," Jeffery said. "Every now and again, he'll come up with an idea, and I don't think anything has come out of that yet, but we're still working with him. He's not an employee anymore, but..."

Jeffery went on to hint that Sega may look at old titles developed by Suzuki for possible iPhone ports.

"We're looking at arcade, and we're looking at Game Gear. The interest in digital delivery media and the iPhone has really caused us to look back to the past and the great golden days of Sega gaming in all formats, not just the Genesis. So absolutely we're looking back there," he said.

Report from: Games Industry

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Batman - Arkham Asylum game announced

A Haunting, Action Detective Game For the Xbox 360 Video Game and Entertainment System from Microsoft, PLAYSTATION 3 Computer Entertainment System and Games for Windows

Eidos Interactive and Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment on behalf of DC Comics announce Batman: Arkham Asylum a dark, action packed videogame adventure for Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, PLAYSTATION 3 computer entertainment system and Games for Windows in 2009.

In Batman: Arkham Asylum, developed by Rocksteady Studios, the player assumes the role of Batman as he delivers The Joker to Arkham Asylum. There, the imprisoned super-villains have set a trap and an immersive combat gaming experience unfolds. With an original script penned by Emmy Award-winning Batman writer Paul Dini, the game brings the universe of DC Comics’ detective to life with stunning graphics.

“In Batman: Arkham Asylum Eidos and Warner Bros. are building a true action adventure game experience worthy of gamers and fans,” said Phil Rogers, CEO of Eidos Interactive. “Players become Batman, like he has never been seen before in a video game, as he fights through intense circumstances in Arkham Asylum utilizing his intuitive detective skills and aggressive melee attacks.”

“Batman: Arkham Asylum offers players the chance to battle Gotham’s worst villains with Batman’s physical and psychological strength in a graphically distinct and story-driven game,” said Martin Tremblay, President, Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment. “We look forward to working with Eidos on expanding DC Comics’ world-renowned character Batman in the game space with a noticeably different feature set in an incredibly dark interactive environment.”

Eidos Interactive and Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment will co-publish Batman: Arkham Asylum in North America, Eidos Interactive will publish the game in all other territories.

Street Gears to get China release

Street Gears is a massively multiplayer online inline skating racing game. The game offers exhilarating races in which you need to use every trick in your arsenal to prevail against your friends and enemies, but that's not all; building your character by choosing skills from a skill tree and obtaining gear, trading with other players, and tackling the many quests are among the wide variety of activities offered.Chinese publisher CDC Games Limited has received approval from the Chinese government to publish Street Gears, an online game developed by nFlavor Corp., a consolidated subsidiary of Gala Inc.

1. Overview of Street Gears 
Street Gears is a massively multiplayer online inline skating racing game. The game offers exhilarating races in which you need to use every trick in your arsenal to prevail against your friends and enemies, but that's not all; building your character by choosing skills from a skill tree and obtaining gear, trading with other players, and tackling the many quests are among the wide variety of activities offered.
2. Operation in China
In China, there is a government-mandated screening process for imported online games. While this allows for the introduction of high-quality online games from around the world, it also means that games which do not fit Chinese culture or have inappropriate content are severely restricted.
Street Gears has now passed this screening, and will go into open beta testing in October.


3. Future Efforts
The Gala Group will continue to strive to expand its online businesses in order to provide superior games to users around the world.


Chrono Trigger on Nintendo DS screenshots

Chrono Trigger on Nintendo DS screenshots ...









Baseball Game for iPhone and iPods now on iTunes Store


Chalkboard Sports Baseball is now available on the iTunes Store. Sports fans can purchase and download Chalkboard Sports Baseball for $4.99 and play America’s favorite pastime anytime, anywhere on an iPod nano (3rd generation), iPod classic and iPod (5th generation).

Chalkboard Sports Baseball offers incredibly fun game play and depth not usually found in casual sports games and it was developed exclusively for iPod and the unique click wheel.

Chalkboard Sports Baseball features…
• Easy, Pick-Up-and-Play controls optimized for the Click Wheel.
• Personalized teams thanks to FaceMaker, a unique web-based tool that allows gamers to easily import their own images into the game via iTunes.
• I-Think AI: computer players so smart they literally think on the fly.
Bonus point home run targets and unlockable pitches.
• Quick Play and Playoff modes, six ballparks, multiple camera views, all the sounds of being at the ballpark – even day and night games!
“The iPod is a game platform that offers a remarkably unique interface that is simple and intuitive, with endless possibilities to developers,” said Scott Orr, founder and CEO of D2C Games. “Chalkboard Sports Baseball is the first game we are bringing to iPod gamers and we have big plans to offer more Chalkboard Sports titles that are easy to play, incredibly fun and user personalized.”

Go to www.d2cgames-facemaker.com to try out the FaceMaker utility.

Free Balloonacy for iPhone and iTouch released


The addictive Balloon game that will drive you insane!

Tilt and guide your Balloon around many maze like levels that increase in difficulty as you progress.

Use keys to open walls and extra life Balloons just to survive whilst ensuring your Balloon does not touch any walls or moving obstacles which will cause your Balloon to burst!

Can you survive the course?, only those with a steady hand will win - Good Luck!

The FREE adwrap version of Balloonacy is available now, with the PAID version to be released shortly on the iPhone App Store.

Features:
  • Many challenging levels!
  • Easy to pickup and play!
  • Full use of hardware features!
  • Suitable for all ages!

Fry Cry 2 configuration - Ubisoft announce

OK the PC graphics of Far Cry were amazing but did you have to upgrade your PC? Now Ubisoft have released to specifications needed for Far Cry 2.

The minimum and recommended configurations are listed below...

Minimum
CPU: Pentium 4 3.2 Ghz - Pentium D 2.66 Ghz - AMD Athlon 64 3500+ or better.
Video Card: NVIDIA 6800 or ATI X1650 or better
Shader Model 3 required.
Memory: 1 Go
Media reader: DVD-Rom

Recommended
CPU: Intel Core 2 Duo Family - AMD64 X2 5200+ - AMD Phenom or better.
Video Card: NVIDIA 8600 GTS or better - ATI X1900 or better.
512 Mb of graphics memory.
Memory: 2 Go
Sound: 5.1 sound card
Media reader: DVD-Rom
Supported video cards: NVIDIA 6800 - 7000 series - 8000 series - 9000 series - 200 series - 8700m + 8700m for laptops. ATI X1650 - 1950 series - HD2000 series - HD3000 series - HD4000 series.

Far Cry 2 is expected to be released late 2008 a demo version is expected sooner - check back on Gamezplay for the latest information.

Free Preview Weekend for Pirates of the Caribbean Online


From August 15th through August 18th (12 PM PT), Disney Online will host a Free Preview Weekend for Pirates of the Caribbean Online which will include:

FREE Unlimited Access to the Caribbean - As the Spaniard Garcia de Avaricia and Frenchman Pierre le Porc fight for control of their territories, the battle in the Caribbean rages on! Eager for new recruits to join the fight, the French and Spanish Pirate "Lords" have decreed that for a limited time, free Unlimited Access be granted to all Basic Access Pirates! (After August 18th, accounts that were upgraded for free will revert back to Basic Access status).



• 50% discount on Customizable items for Unlimited Access Players - To reward Pirates that are already Members of the Unlimited Access crew, a 50% discount on customizable items will be available at all Clothing Tailors, Barbershops, Tattoo Parlors, and Jewelry Shops will be offered during this time.

To participate in the Free Preview Weekend, players can download the game as well as additional information at www.PiratesOnline.com.

New Map for Fallen Empire: Legions


InstantAction's breakout hit, Legions, is expanding its universe once again with a fresh new map - Zenith Cauldron.

Boasting real estate four times larger than the two previously released maps (Nivosus and Moonshine), Zenith Cauldron offers players the extra space to make every match a true exercise in both tactics and skill. Expanding on the environments currently available, the new map's large desert-themed playing field will feature a plethora of rolling dunes allowing players to take full advantage of the Legion's "ski" feature.

Zenith Cauldron also features large slopes surrounding the two bases so players can get a good jump right after spawning. Players should also forward to exploring Zenith Cauldron with the soon-to-be-released "Outrider" class.

So what are you waiting for? Go check out Zenith Cauldron!

For more information, check out www.instantaction.com.

If you want to take on World of Warcraft it'll cost you a billion...

Monumental Games boss Rik Alexander has explained why his studio is producing an MMO based around football - rather than opting for a more traditional fantasy theme.

"Sports just makes the most sense," he told the audience at the Edinburgh Interactive Festival, during an MMO roundtable. "Loads of people like football. At Monumental we want to take national pastimes and make them MMOs - things like fishing or trainspotting," Alexander said - though he was careful to note Monumental isn't currently working on any fishing or trainspotting-themed games.

"Fantasy is very well serviced. I'd need a billion quid to take on WoW," he added, to which Redbedlam boss Kerry Fraser-Robinson responded, "I could do it for a tenth of that."

Monumental's title, Football Superstars, isn't the only sports-themed MMO in development - but according to Alexander, it could be the best. "Other people are doing it wrong - sorry if that sounds a little bigheaded, but they're not thinking about it the right way or funding it the right way," he said.

"When we set up Monumental three years ago I didn't want to be a game developer. I didn't think it was a very good business model, for all the fundamental reasons - having to rely on publishers to give you money, 18 to 24 month development cycles...

"MMOs, you get one deal and it's there for 10 or 20 years, who knows. And that's really a good way to think about business." However, Alexander added, "The problem is obviously making a successful one in the first place."

Source: Games Industry

Mulver - Pure platform fun released


Spelagon is proud to announce that 3D Jump and Run game Mulver is out and available for PC. Mulver is a family friendly game that concentrates on the pure platform fun of the good old days. The 3D platform genre has been somewhat neglected on the PC market and Mulver is here to fill that spot.



Uncle Miggles has been taken hostage by sneaky King Porco. Mulver can rescue him only by collecting the three precious Yre Crystals that are hidden throughout the kingdom. Explore strange worlds, collect coins, gems and crystals while avoiding grunts, spikes and other hazards that awaits along the way.

Features:
• True 3D gameplay
• 15 unique levels to explore
• 5 different environments
• More than 200 coins to collect
• High score and badges offers great replay value
Watch the game video on YouTube here...