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Saturday, February 28, 2009

Earl Weaver Baseball video game coming to iPhone and iPod Touch

Earl weaver Baseball video gameEarl Weaver Baseball, the heavyweight of baseball simulations in the late 1980s and one of the titles that helped create EA Sports, is being ported to the iPhone by its original programmer.

Full post and video on Kotaku here...

No more support for original Xbox from March 2nd say Microsoft

xbox support stopped microsoftMessage on Official Microsoft Xbox support website lets users know that support will stop on Monday March 2nd 2009.

Statement on website...

On March 2, 2009, service repairs for Original Xbox video game systems for which the Warranty has expired will no longer be available. Any other technical support, documents, and content, however, will continue to be available to all our customers. Although Microsoft is ending repair services for the Original Xbox, an upgrade program and support will be maintained for Original Xbox consoles that are still under Warranty.
Support documents, content, and services available online

On March 2, 2009, technical support documents and content will be available online. Our Web sites will host a wealth of previous and new how-to, troubleshooting, and configuration content that has been revised and updated to meet our customer needs and current support model.

If you have an original Xbox console that is in Warranty that requires a repair, you will be able to submit an exchange request for an upgrade to Xbox 360 online.

Content and online repair services are available through the Xbox Support Web site.

10 Scariest video games ever - Silent Hill 2, Condemned, Project Zero, Eternal Darkness, Resident Evil, Siren, FEAR, Sanitarium, Dead Space & Doom 3,

10 scariest video games everWhether you’re a “lights off, headphones on, come get some-shouting” hard-as-nails type or more of the “hear-the-spooky-voice-on-the-title-screen-and-scream-until-the-police-arrive” variety, it’s time to grab a spare pair of pants and take a look at the top 10 scariest video games thus far (beware: contains mild spoilers and scary words…)

Read the post, if you dare, here on Know Your Money...

Midnight Club - Los Angeles South Central Download - March 12th

The Midnight Club: Los Angeles – South Central downloadable content will be available on March 12th for both the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and for PLAYSTATION 3 computer entertainment system.

South Central offers more streets to race in with the free South Central Map Expansion which expands Midnight Club: Los Angeles by one third, adding four new neighborhoods to make up the iconic district of South Central. The South Central Premium Upgrade is the total South Central experience for Midnight Club: Los Angeles delivering 9 new vehicles, 26 new races, 12 new battle maps, 10 new delivery missions, over 100 new red light races, new vinyl packs, new parts, new music and more all for the cost of $9.99.

The free South Central Map Expansion will ensure that every racer with either Xbox 360 or PLAYSTATION 3 copies of the game can race online against players that have the South Central Premium Upgrade.

The South Central Map Expansion features:
  • Map expansion by one third
  • Four new neighborhoods
  • Price: FREE for both Xbox 360 and PLAYSTATION 3
The South Central Premium Upgrade features:
  • Nine new vehicles:
  • Luxury: 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK63 AMG "Black" SUV: 2008 Range Rover Supercharged, 2008 Range Rover Sport Super Charged Lowrider: 1955 Chevy Bel Air, 1963 Buick Riviera, 1964 Chevy Impala, 1965 Chevy Malibu Muscle: 1970 Chevy Chevelle, 1966 Pontiac GTO
  • 26 new races
  • 12 new battle maps
  • 10 new delivery missions
  • 100+ new red light races
  • New rims
  • New body kits for each new car
  • New vinyl pre-sets
  • Hydraulics/Airbags unlocked on all new cars
  • New music
  • Price: $9.99 for PLAYSTATION 3 and 800 MS points for Xbox 360
More car packs are also set to come soon, stay tuned to the official site for more details, including the debut trailer.

Midnight Club - Los Angeles Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 customisation video

Midnight Club Los Angeles Xbox 360 playstation 3 Midnight Club Los Angeles customisation video - customise every aspect of your vehicle... 

Video game trailers on gamezplay.org YouTube channel gameboyuk

New video game trailers from gamezplay.org today my channel is Number 8 most viewed - thanks

* Blood Bowl - Wood Elves v Chaos screenshots video game trailer
* Lost Planet 2 on Xbox 360 HD video game trailer
* Pro Evolution Soccer 2009 screenshots - Nintendo Wii video game
* Pro Evolution Soccer 2009 video game on Nintendo Wii
* Dead Rising Chop Till You Drop Web video number 3 - Nintendo Wii


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Lost Planet 2 on Xbox 360 HD video game trailer

Lost Planet 2Capcom announce Lost Planet 2 is being developed for the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, following an exclusive announcement on Xbox LIVE that happened Monday, February 23. Lost Planet : Extreme Condition, the landmark third-person shooter that debuted on Xbox 360, went on to sell over 2.2 million units worldwide after its release. This next riveting instalment will offer deeper insight into the world of E.D.N III and the uncertain fate of future mankind.

Lost Planet 2 picks up 10 years since the events of the original adventure and the landscape has evolved dramatically. With the success of terraforming activities, the planet’s ice has begun to melt, giving way to lush tropical jungles and other new environments. The story has advanced beyond Wayne Holden as players will now follow the exploits of their own customized snow pirates on their quest to seize control of E.D.N III. Players will move their heroes through different stories creating a truly unique and interactive experience. With this concept, gamers will have the opportunity to engage in the story in a more dynamic way as plot threads evolve from various perspectives.

The strongest features from the first game will return in Lost Planet 2 making fans feel right at home. In addition to the anchor actions that made the gameplay in Lost Planet a true 3-D experience, Lost Planet 2 allows gamers to gain tactical advantage with a wide variety of new actions. The game will also contain a new addition to the enormous Akrids which were a fan-favourite in the first Lost Planet.

Capcom has spent a considerable amount of time reviewing community feedback and incorporating it into Lost Planet 2 creating a game that both new and returning fans to the series will love. The game takes advantage of Capcom’s most highly advanced software development tool, the MT Framework 2. This is the first game to make use of the new technology that builds on the advancements made in the original MT Framework.

Beyond the deep single player mode, Lost Planet 2 is loaded with one the most extensive multiplayer campaign seen in a shooter to date. The intense and action packed campaign mode comes with the ability to form teams of up to 4 players online to clear mission objectives with friends.


BattleFantasia - A Fighting Game of RPG-Sized Proportions! Xbox 360

Aksys Games, a publisher of interactive entertainment products, announced that Battle Fantasia will be battling its way onto Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft.

Watch me screenshots video on YouTube here... please subscribe

“Battle Fantasia’s helps bring the fighting genre to the mainstream with its RPG-style appeal,” said Frank “Bo” deWindt II, Project Lead, Aksys Games. “If the fighting aspects don’t hook you, the quirky characters and their stories will.”
Battle Fantasia Prologue

There was once a time when the world was engulfed in darkness. Mankind fought six battles to save their world, but lost every single one. All hope was lost for humanity and many turned to praying to God. But, one day, the darkness was finally driven back by the swords of four heroes.

Light returned to the world, and with it came peace and serenity. The world was then divided into two major countries: The Magic Kingdom and the Steam Empire. The people prospered like never before…

But in recent months, strange things have begun to happen. Rumors spread among the people that the darkness was returning…

However, fate has once again brought together warriors from all over the world. Some fight in the relentless pursuit of justice. Some fight due to their conviction and faith.

As the battle looms near, an epic tale of new heroes begins to unfold…

Battle Fantasia Key Features:

Gorgeous Cel-shaded Graphics

Experience Battle Fantasia’s amazing art and graphics as you play through the game!

Exclusive Console Story Mode

Play through each character’s main scenario in “Story Mode”, or discover hidden sub-scenarios to truly immerse yourself in the universe of Battle Fantasia!

Exciting Online Play

Fight against opponents from far and wide or view your overall online rankings via Xbox LIVE

Feel the Burn of “Heat Up” and the Sting of “GACHI”

Master the Battle Fantasia exclusive battle mechanics of “Heat Up” mode, “GACHI Match”, and “GACHI Drive” to keep your opponents on their toes!

Find Every Unlockable!

With over 80 unlockable illustrations in “Gallery Mode” and various Xbox Achievements, you’ll find yourself playing for hours on end!

EA to focus on fewer, better games in 2009...

dead space video gameThe boss of Electronic Arts admitted a poor performance in 2008. Not enough gamers wanted to buy our games - John Pleasants told Forbes magazine.

Franchises like Dead Space and Mirror's Edge sales were disappointing.

EA have reduced by 20% the number of titles it is working on. The company will continue to cut costs (but not in marketing) this year.

Dead Space 2 is already confirmed - let's hope this makes a lot of dosh and EA can continue to provide great games.

Source: Forbes

iPhone - Metal Gear Solid, Bioshock, Prey, GTA and Quake coming soon...

Metal Gear Solid iphone gameYou can raise dogz, run chocolate shopz, race kartz and match, erm, threez until your thumbs are worn down to the knuckle, but sometimes the casual experience is just no match for gunning down something slimy or finally collecting that orc repellant armour you've quested so hard for.

Having claimed so much play time from gamers and late nights from developers, the iPhone is starting to stretch its legs in what is affectionately known as the hardcore space. We've already had Brothers In Arms: Hour of Heroes, Kroll and Hero of Sparta.

Rumours about a premium section on the App Store and Digital Chocolate's Trip Hawkins getting nervous about the whole thing are certainly telling signs too.

There's a trend on the way people, or at least that's what we're predicting using our arcane knowledge of all things pocket gaming and, of course, our giant brains.

Some imminent hardcore iPhone games are confirmed and promoted, while others are still loitering in the forest of rumour. Here are six games we variously know or suspect are on the way.

Read the full post here on Pocket Gamer...

Blood Bowl - Wood Elves v Chaos on Xbox 360, PC, Nintendo DS and PSP

Blood Bowl - Wood Elves v ChaosCyanide and Focus Home Interactive are pleased to reveal this exclusive set of new screenshots taken from Blood Bowl, the video game adapted from Games Workshop's famous board game.

Watch my screenshots video here... please subscribe

The imaginary forerunner of football, Blood Bowl is an ultra violent team sport based on the Warhammer world. It lets players compose a team of Orcs, Elves, Humans, Dwarves and many others fantasy creatures before jumping into the bloodiest arenas. The sport game is both strategic and violent. It requires tactics, a certain amount of game-sense and a lot of self-confidence.

Now we can reveal the two last races in the game. After the Orcs and Humans, Dwarfs and Lizardmen, Goblins and Skaven, today is the day for the Wood Elves and Chaos to show themselves and compete on the blood soaked field!

Wood Elf teams are very elegant and value fair play in their game. They are a very specialized team with distinctive positions for each player role. ‘Fragile and agile’, Wood Elves give priority to evasive tactics in order to avoid confrontation and score without using any violence. But don't underestimate them when on the attack, Wood Elves won't hesitate to fight back if they have to; Wardancers especially know how to stop stubborn opponents. Last but not least, Wood Elves can count on valuable help from Treemen. Their awesome strength and sturdiness are seriously difficult to match, fortunately for everyone else, Treemen have a bad Habit of Taking Root in the middle of the field during the game!

The Chaos team uses a totally different playing style to that of the Wood Elves. They have no concept whatsoever of fair play and don't care very much about the ball either! At least, not if someone is still standing on the other team. To sum up their game philosophy, let's say that some Chaos teams consider the number of injuries inflicted is far more important than number of touchdowns scored.
Their team is composed of Chaos Warriors, Beastmen and Minotaurs. Corrupted by the power of the Chaos Gods, they are bestowed great strength and excel at the physical contact game, often trying to eliminate every adversary before scoring. When they face opponents that are more resistant than expected, Chaos teams line up wild Minotaurs whose bestiality would make any other team shudder. However, be careful, Minotaurs are only honorary Blood Bowl "players"; they are highly unpredictable and seldom follow their coach's orders.

Both teams are waiting for you to play in highly contested games in 2009.

Blood Bowl is currently in development and will come out on PC, Xbox 360 and on Nintendo DS and PSP handheld systems.

Virtual Skipper 5 - FREE PC demo download

Virtual Skipper 5 - FREE PC demo downloadConsidered to be the ultimate in nautical simulations, Virtual Skipper is back with a new edition which will delight all sailing fans.

With Virtual Skipper 5, players will be able to take part in thrilling regattas aboard world-class boats on a sea surging with realism in single- and multiplayer games.

Players can skipper four types of boat, each behaving differently, on an ultra-realistic sea, which has been modelled and animated to perfection. In addition to the water courses at Valencia, Trapani, Marseille and Malmö, official sites of the America’s Cup, the game includes 10 other famous competitive sailing locations.

An editor will also enable you to create and incorporate your own water courses and regattas and you will therefore have a host of different maps to guarantee renewed and continued gameplay fun in the Internet multiplayer games.


Features:
• 3D regatta simulation: the ultimate in computer sailing simulations.

• At any level, enjoy the game to its fullest with the four game modes suitable for beginners or seasoned navigators (arcade, tactical, simulation and “no rules”).

• A vast single player game with the highlight of a campaign dedicated to the America’s Cup.

• Skipper four types of boats: the Class ACC, the Trimaran Open 60, the Offshore Racer or even the Melges 24.

• Navigate the 14 legendary water courses, including Valencia, Marseille, Trapani and Malmö, official sites of the America’s Cup. Discover the prime locations for competitive sailing such as San Francisco, Sydney, Porto Cervo, Auckland, Vancouver, the Isle of Wight, Quiberon and even Qingdao. We have the exotic in store for you with the Bay of Rio and the mouth of Vesuvius!

• Including the famous Nadeo editors: Water course editor and MediaTracker (cameras, text and graphics).

• Multiplayer game (LAN and Internet), with world player rankings on the Internet.


Download the FREE PC demo here...

Sherlock Holmes - The Awakened FREE PC demo download

Sherlock Holmes - The Awakened FREE PC demo downloadThis 502 Mb demo contains roughly one hour of gameplay and gives players a chance to learn what it's like to be the great detective Sherlock Holmes and his able assistant, Doctor Watson.

The demo will immerse players in a shadowy world, where all is not as it seems, and followers of the dark cult of Cthulhu are working behind the scenes to an unknown but sinister end.

Players will be challenged to investigate crime scenes, interview witnesses, search for clues and use a broad set of tools to examine them.

The greatest detective, in the darkest of adventures

Since its release in 2007, Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened has attracted a huge worldwide audience, earning high marks from reviewers and consumers alike. Regarded by many as one of the best uses of a license (earning GameSpot's "Best Use of a License" award in 2007) – The Awakened is one of the key titles in the adventure genre is the past several years.

While keeping the traditional Point & Click game play, 'The Awakened' was deeply reworked to provide gamers the ability to switch between 1st and 3rd-person view mode. Players are now able to freely choose which view mode they want to use to lead their investigation at best.

The game, based on an excellent scenario, plunges the player into the heart of a terrifying investigation. Sherlock Holmes, assisted by the loyal Doctor Watson, investigates strange disappearances which seem related to the activity of a secret sect. The adventure begins in London, in the renowned Baker Street, taking us then to investigate a disturbing psychiatric hospital near Bale, Switzerland, then on to Louisiana and finally to Scotland.

Features:
• Join Sherlock Holmes in the most risky adventure of his career.

• An original confrontation between the universe of Sherlock Holmes and the myth of Cthulhu, for a fight between the rational and the supernatural.

• Sumptuous graphics, biting dialogue, disturbing characters and an excellent sound track make for incredible and apocalyptic turn of the century atmospheres.
• Use of the latest real time 3D technologies for total immersion in gripping ambiances.

• Become in turns the famous detective Sherlock Holmes and his loyal friend Doctor Watson.

• Interact with more than 60 characters in 5 disturbing universes.

• Use and combine more than 50 objects, and discover hundreds of clues and documents to carry out the investigation to its final outcome.

• Two view modes - the original 1st - person mode along with the new 3rd - persone mode, which brings a fresh new perspective to the game

• A new help Bar which allows players in the 3rd-person mode to instantly discover all the available actions on the screen

• An updated help system that offers gamers step-by-step solutions to the game's puzzles.

• Improved graphics which features new lighting, HD effects, shaders, shadows and new animations.


Download the FREE Pc demo here...

Pro Cycling Manager FREE playable PC demo download

Pro Cycling Manager FREE playable PC demo downloadThis 760 MB demo puts players at the head of the Euskaltel team as they race to win the 16th stage of the Tour de France 2008: Cuneo – Jausiers.

In the demo, your team is beginning its last week of competition before the grand final on the Champs-Élysées, but you still haven’t won any stages yet, and your sponsors are beginning to put some pressure on you to see their colours on the podium.

Through this 157.4 km mountain stage, you’ll need to display all your talents as a Director of Sports to finally get the victory you need.

Download the demo here...

Dracula - Origin - FREE download PC demo

Dracula - Origin - FREE download PC demoThe release of the English playable demo for the latest adventure game from Frogwares studio.

In the demo, you will be drawn into the first pages of an enthralling story, unwind the first knots of an evil plan and immerse yourself in the disquieting and bewitching atmosphere surrounding the Prince of Darkness in this great adventure game.

Dracula: Origin is the new adventure game from Frogwares studio, the team that developed the famous Sherlock Holmes series for PC. Having successfully tackled the myth of Cthulhu in Sherlock Holmes - The Awakened, Frogwares is once again venturing into a disturbing and fantastic universe, the world of the Prince of Darkness, in an adventure which combines romanticism, mystery and horror.

Young, charming and devout, Dracula was once an ardent defender of Christendom but lost his faith in God when he is abandoned by his one true love after she marries. Count Dracula then makes a pact with the Prince of Darkness, and becomes a vampire with an insatiable thirst for blood and vengeance, cursed to eternal damnation.

In the game, you play the role of Professor Van Helsing, the celebrated vampire hunter, on the hunt for Dracula, while Dracula himself is on a quest for a mysterious manuscript which will give him the power to raise the dead.

Your goal is to prevent Dracula from finding and using this manuscript, and also to kill him, in order to liberate the souls of all those who have had the misfortune to cross his path.

Using conventional Point & Click gameplay, Dracula: Origin is a superb adventure supported by impeccable graphics and a rich storyline, which takes you to London, Egypt, Austria, and of course, to Transylvania, in the famous home of the great vampire. With a subtle combination of 2D environments and animated 3D characters, the game faithfully reproduces the world imagined by the celebrated author Bram Stoker, with all its associated motifs (horror, love, blood, crucifixes, stakes, garlic, etc.), in a disturbing, finely-realized and absorbing Gothic atmosphere.

Features:

• An unrelenting pursuit of one of the most terrifying figures from fantasy literature.

• Confrontation between two antithetical heroes: Van Helsing, the restrained scientist and spiritual hero, and the young and high-spirited Dracula, whose inhumanity matches his malevolence.

• Superb graphics, combining 2D environments and 3D characters.

• A deep storyline, focusing on Van Helsing's quest to kills the king of all vampires, and Dracula's quest to find the manuscript to raise the dead.

• Interaction with over 40 characters. Use and combination of over 150 objects associated with the vampire-themed storyline (stake, statue, garlic, mirror, etc.).

• A romantic, bloody and violent Gothic ambiance which is true to the original world created by Bram Stoker, providing total immersion into the adventure.

• Help system that shows the interactive possibilities (objects and actions) to help players in need.


Download the free PC demo here... (606Mb)

Turn an old iMac into a iDreamcast in these (not so) simple steps...

idreamcastGot an old iMac lying around? 

Why not remove the insides load a 15" LCD screen and an iDreamcast and play your fav games...

More pictures and instructions here...

Ceville PC video game out now

king ceville video gamePoint & click adventure Ceville hits the shops!

In Ceville – the humorous and engrossing point and click adventure from Kalypso Media - you assume the role of tiny tyrant Ceville.

When he's not puzzling his way through the world of Faeryanis, he's guaranteed to be found holding hilarious conversations with one of the more than 30 different inhabitants of his former realm.

Later in the game Ceville is joined by two other characters which the player also controls, either one after the other or as a team. With the logical combination or use of objects players won't be able to stop grinning or laughing out loud as they puzzle their way through an epic story of the eternal war between "Evil" and... "really, really terribly Evil"!

Ceville is out now for a recommended retail price of £29.99.

Family Pirate Party video game on Nintendo Wii

family pirate partyGet Ready To Plunder Like No Other!

Aksys Games, a publisher of interactive entertainment software, is pleased to announce Family Pirate Party exclusively for WiiWare!

Developed by ARC SYSTEM WORKS, creators of the Guilty Gear series and Family Glide Hockey, players of all ages will finally be able to battle their family members in an all or nothing family board game!

Family Pirate Party has players controlling our beloved family through several unique pirate-themed virtual board game. Players will traverse to multiple island spots on the board and plunder their riches and defend their spot against newcomers.

Go head-to-head with your buddies in hilariously exciting minigames!

“The "Family" series of games was created to offer simple-yet-fun alternatives to classic games that are appropriate for gamers of all ages,” said Bo deWindt, Project Lead, Aksys Games. “FAMILY PIRATE PARTY is a unique twist on the classic digital party game and promises hours of family friendly fun.”

Key Features:
• Get In The Fun With The Whole Family!
Enjoy 1-4 player board game fun, with any combination of players or CPU opponents!

• Maximize your Bootay!
Find and collect Help Cards to increase your gold, or use them to give you an advantage!

• Plunder Ye Island!
Play through three maps of varying difficulty which include Beginner's Island, Freezing Winter Land, and Fluffy Cloud Land!

• Keep the party going with add-on content!
Use your Wii Points and download new maps and new costumes pack for the whole family!
Family Pirate Party has been rated “E10+” by the ESRB.

Final Fantasy VII Advent Children Complete NEW Trailer

Final Fantasy VII Advent Children Complete NEW Trailer Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children COMPLETE. Watch the trailer for Advent Children Complete! A trial version set which includes a demo for Final Fantasy XIII as well as a bundle which includes a "Cloud Black" Limited Edition Playstation 3 and the Trial


PlayStation Store update - this weeks offerings... (UK)

H.A.W.X. FREE demo on PlayStation 3
Demos
Tom Clancy’s H.A.W.X - FREE demo post here
DLC
High Velocity Bowling - Dwayne Pack (£0.79)
High Velocity Bowling - Candy Pack (£0.79)
High Velocity Bowling - Trick Shots Pack Two (free)
The Lord of the Rings: Conquest - All-New Content Pack (£6.29)
Skate 2 - San Van Classic Pack (£3.19)
Street Fighter IV - Brawler Pack (£3.19)
Buzz - Quiz of the Year 2008 (£3.99)
Trailers
Lumines Supernova
Prince of Persia Epilogue
echochrome Master Maze Makers
Burnout Paradise - The Ultimate Bundle
FIFA 09 Ultimate Team Intro
Disgaea 3 - Absence of Justice
Themes
Loco Roco
Rock Band
Guitar Hero - World Tour

Top 50 video games of all time - Guinness World Records

mario kart video gameSee if you agree with Guinness World Records top 50 games of all time...
  1. Super Mario Kart
  2. Tetris 
  3. Grand Theft Auto 
  4. Super Mario World 
  5. Zelda Ocarina of Time 
  6. Halo 
  7. Resident Evil IV 
  8. Final Fantasy XII 
  9. Street Fighter II 
  10. GoldenEye 
  11. Super Mario 64 
  12. Tomb Raider 
  13. Metal Gear Solid 
  14. Call of Duty 4 
  15. Sonic the Hedgehog 2 
  16. GTA San Andreas 
  17. Super Mario Bros 
  18. Zelda: A Link to the Past 
  19. Gran Turismo 
  20. Final Fantasy VII 
  21. Pro Evolution Soccer 4 
  22. The Orange Box 
  23. Lego Star Wars Complete Saga 
  24. Tekken 2 
  25. Wii Sports 
  26. Pokemon Red/Blue 
  27. Guitar Hero 
  28. Project Gotham Racing 4 
  29. Super Mario Galaxy 
  30. Resident Evil 
  31. Ico 
  32. Chrono Trigger 
  33. Gunstar Heroes 
  34. Soul Calibur 
  35. Advance Wars
  36. Ridge Racer 
  37. Super Metroid 
  38. Castlevania: Symphony of the Night 
  39. GTA Vice City 
  40. BioShock 
  41. Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic 
  42. The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening 
  43. God of War 
  44. Sega Rally Championship 
  45. Starfox 64 
  46. Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion 
  47. WarioWare Inc 
  48. Saturn Bomberman 
  49. Crash Bandicoot 
  50. Outrun 2

Sony want GTA back on PSP as Chinatown heads for Nintendo DS

GTA chinatown wars nintendo dsGrand Theft Auto - Chinatown Wars is heading for Nintendo DS but why not PSP?

GTA was once a top selling PSP series but what of the future?

"That's a tremendous franchise for PlayStation in general. We've had two that are the top two sellers on PSP right now. So, there's definitely continued conversations with Rockstar on all their brands. That's nothing that's left the PlayStation family," Koller told MTV Multiplayer.

Watch the video game trailer on yesterday's post...

Concerns have been raised as to the target age of games on the DS compared to PSP and if Rockstar have picked the wrong platform - only sales will tell.

Chinatown Wars is released on Nintendo DS on March 17th.

PlayStation 3 laptop possible as Sony merger divisions...

Could we see a laptop that plays PlayStation 3 games from Sony?

Sony have announced it's laptop division will join its gaming business in a company shake-up.

Second - Its consumer products group including its television, digital imaging, home audio and video businesses. Hiroshi Yoshioka, currently executive vice president of Sony and president of its TV business group, will become its first president.

A third cross-divisional group – the common software and technology team – which will be charged with ensuring compatibility between the two new division's products.

Any game can be played through a web browser - including Gears of War


Instant Action's vice president claims that any game can be played through a web browser, including Gears of War.

Instant Action recently unveiled its new technology platform, which utilises a proprietary plugin to render games at full speed from a web browser.

The technology performs in a similar manner to some already released MMOs, including the upcoming Free Realms, but Instant Action claims that any 3D game can be played on any web browser with their latest technology.

When asked whether Epic's hit Xbox 360 game Gears of War could be played via a web browser, Instant Action's vice president Brett Seyler told Gigaom.com that with Microsoft's approval, the company could convert the game for web-based play within "two to three weeks, max."

The company is apparently in talks with most video game publishers, with deals to be announced by the end of the year. Whether publishers will jump on board remains to be seen, but with the increased popularity of Steam and the like, they might see the virtues of selling games without the need for a huge PC install: Instant Action's technology only requires the download and installation of a 150kb plug-in.

Source: Gamezine

Instant Action website...

Astonishing - Empire - Total War video game review

empire total war
PC Gamer gives top honours to Creative Assembly's "strategy masterwork"

PC Gamer UK has published an exciting, gushing review of The Creative Assembly's latest RTS, Empire: Total War.

According to PCG the new instalment is "astonishing. A strategy masterwork." Well worth the 94% and rare 'Must Buy' badge they've dished out, then.
"This is the grandest, most spectacular work of strategy gaming on the PC," the mag gushes. "If you've not tackled a Total War game before, or assume that they're not for you, I challenge you to play Empire and not be impressed, or even fundamentally changed by the experience.

"There had been rumblings about Total War being simplified for the US market, especially with its introductory mini-campaign 'The Road to Independence'," the review continues. But "The Creative Assembly do not seem to have shirked their responsibility, or ever stepped back from including more features, or more detail," it says. "Empire is the opposite of dumbed down.

"While it feels familiar, Empire manages to deliver more nuance on the campaign map than ever before. What's most immediately obvious is the effect of international trade.

"The sheer weight of ideas produced by the Creative Assembly team is in evidence. The battlefields are vastly more detailed than ever before, especially around towns, with the smaller scale details now coming into effect in the form of battlefield defences, use of buildings by troops, and accurate cover. Battles play out more convincingly than in previous games. There's still some errant unit activity, but I've seen little evidence of units sitting around waiting to be killed, or getting lost entirely. Not perfect, perhaps, but certainly more robust.
As if RTS nuts weren't excited enough already. And by the sounds of this, non-RTS fans should be too.

Total War is out next Friday, March 4. Full review in PC Gamer, on sale NOW!

Source: CVG

Crown of Glory - Emperor's Edition Now Available!

Crown of Glory Emperor's EditionWage total war across Europe and build an empire in Crown of Glory: Emperor's Edition!

Matrix Games and Western Civilization Software are thrilled to announce that Crown of Glory: Emperor’s Edition, the highly anticipated sequel to the critically acclaimed Crown of Glory, is now available for immediate download! Combining strategy and tactics in one design, Crown of Glory: Emperor's Edition offers gamers an opportunity to test their strength in an age of legends.

The original Crown of Glory won a series of accolades, including the Charles S. Roberts award for best Pre-20th Century Wargame, the War-Historical Group’s Wargame of the Year 2005, 8/10 from IGN and 9+/10 from Wargamer.com. Crown of Glory: Emperor’s Edition is a major step up from the original in nearly every area, with new detailed Naval Combat, a streamlined economic system, a much stronger AI, beautiful new strategic map, new scenarios and significant interface improvements, just to name a few!

To mark the release of Crown of Glory: Emperor’s Edition, three of the tutorial videos included with the game are now available to give gamers a feel for the addicting gameplay and in-depth game system headed their way! The topics of the three tutorials are The Basics, Land Combat, and Naval Combat. Be sure to check them out on YouTube or download a higher quality version from our website.

David Heath, Director of Operations at Matrix Games, said “Crown of Glory: Emperor’s Edition is a very worthy sequel to the original classic. The new features, improvements and additional scenarios as well as engrossing strategic and tactical play make this an experience that Napoleonic fans should not miss. Anyone with an interest in the Napoleonic period as well as fans of beautifully designed strategy game should give this game a look!”

The initial release is download-only, with options for boxed copies with printed manuals planned to be available next week. Customers who would like a boxed copy and printed manual should wait for those options to show up in the Matrix Games Online Store before purchasing. Also, customers who already own the original Crown of Glory are entitled to a $10 Discount Coupon off the price of Crown of Glory: Emperor’s Edition. This discount coupon can be retrieved by following the links on the product and store pages.

Glory is Fleeting, Obscurity is Forever...

Two centuries ago, Europe was in the midst of one of the most gripping periods in human history. It was an era that saw cobblers become princes and emperors become exiles, an age of legendary diplomats and brilliant tacticians. Listen to the roll of the drum, the call of the bugle, and see the banners unfurled above the divisions and corps. Wide-eyed recruits march next to battle-scarred veterans, sabers clatter alongside the bags of grapeshot, the wheels of hundreds of caissons rattle, as generals plan and diplomats plot, and all of Europe grasps with desperate hands for… The Crown Of Glory.

This new Emperor’s Edition is a sequel to the acclaimed Crown of Glory and improves on the original in every area, immersing the player in the epic events of the Napoleonic era. A beautiful strategic map with more than 200 provinces covers all of Europe and North Africa, with scenarios and campaigns from 1792 up to 1820. Stronger AI, a streamlined interface and a new simplified economic model to allow players to focus on the aspects of the game they most enjoy. Players take the role of one of the crowned potentates of any of the eight Major powers as well as having the option to play as a minor power such as Poland, Denmark or Portugal.

A turn-based structure allows you to play at your own pace, deciding on the military, diplomatic, economic and social paths of your nation, including treaties, trade routes and levying and supplying military units. While your armies march across a worldwide map with monthly turns, detailed land and naval battles allow you to play at a smaller scale, where your brigades, divisions and ships can be commanded with historical tactics. All battles can be resolved quickly or fought out on a detailed battlefield map.

Each unit has its purpose on the battlefield, with such diverse troops as Jagers, Cossacks, Janissaries and Horse Artillery all modeled for individual strength and morale ratings and each beautifully rendered and animated. Similarly, ships ranging from Frigates to massive First Rate Ships of the Line clash on the seas in battles ranging from skirmishes to decisive fleet engagements, all modeled in great realistic detail.

The eight major powers (France, Britain, Austria, Prussia, Russia, Turkey, Spain, and Sweden) and over ninety computer-controlled minor nations are modeled in rich historical detail. Every effort has been made to bring you as thorough a simulation of the Napoleonic Era as is possible, from the dockyards of Lisbon to the frozen wastes of Holy Mother Russia.

Historical leaders, special abilities, fleets, upgrades, reinforcements, colonialism, guard units and over 100 historical events, give Crown Of Glory: Emperor's Edition a unique and engrossing style. Combining strategy and tactics in one design, Crown Of Glory: Emperor's Edition offers you an opportunity to test your strength in an age of legends.
Emperor's Edition Improvements:
• New strategic map including a network of roads connecting provinces
• 70 new movement areas on the strategic map
• New “Simple Economy” mode for players who want to concentrate on military / diplomacy
• 6 new minor powers
• 101 new historical events such as “Reign of Terror,” “Janissary Revolt,” and “Assassination of Paul I”
• Map zooms in and out smoothly on strategic and detailed combat levels
• Nations gain Experience and Naval Experience and use these to purchase national upgrades, advanced units, and special training for units
• Improved orders of battle in all scenarios with historical names for hundreds of divisions and ships
• New scenarios for 1803 and 1812
• New scenarios that allow Portugal, Bavaria, Denmark, the Netherlands, and Poland to be player-controlled
• Changes to strategic A.I. to create more historical decisions for certain nations
• New “Path of Napoleon” victory condition in which player must try to accomplish all of Napoleon’s goals
• New rules for inflation and mobilization limits to better model wartime effects on the economy and to limit army sizes to historical levels
• New rules for march attrition
• New interface screens for strategic overview, unit and province lists
• Ability to fight detailed battles at division or brigade level
• New system of in-game help
• New music and sound effects
Get more information on Crown of Glory: Emperor’s Edition from its official product page and be sure to watch or download the new tutorial videos!

Men of War, Cryostasis and NecroVisioN video games release

men of war pc game505 Games release the long-anticipated 1C game triumvirate of Men of War, Cryostasis and NecroVisioN. Covering the major aspects of the PC gaming market, the three games take you from the trenches of the First World War (and the hell beneath them), to the roving skirmishes of World War II and finally to the frozen wastes of the Arctic in the late 1960s. You’ll battle vampires and the undead, control entire armies, and even have flashbacks into the mind of a cow.

All three games are available in all good high street shops, or from online retailers, and have a recommended retail price of £29.99.

MEN OF WAR
See World War Two from three different sides - Russian, Allied and German – as you command entire armies and plot your battle strategies across epic maps based on real-life locations. Men of War takes place across the globe during the height of World War II and features three different campaigns, each with their own unique units, vehicles and missions. From the Russian missions starring two student comrades fresh to the horrors of war, players are soon catapulted into massive battles with dozens of units under their command. In addition to the in-depth single player experience, Men of War also unleashes a range of multiplayer maps based on the main missions along with action-packed ‘capture the flag’ and ‘high-value cargo’ modes.
CRYOSTASIS
Taking place in the Arctic Circle in 1981, players take on the role of Alexander Nesterov, a Russian meteorologist sent to investigate the final hours of the North Wind, an old nuclear ice-breaker shipwrecked in an icy grave. The freezing cold has turned the inhabitants of the ship into freakish frozen monsters that will hunt down anything warm. Thankfully, Alex possesses a unique ‘Mental Echo’ ability, which allows him to relive the final memories of the dead and change their actions in the past. But, can Alex discover what happened on the North Wind or will he become the latest victim of the terrible cold?
NECROVISION
NecroVisioN is a first-person horror shooter, which sees players taking on the role of American soldier Simon Bukner, who must fight his way through the bleak trenches of World War One and into the jaws of Hell. Dead soldiers are coming back to life with a lust for human flesh, a mad German scientist has created a giant robotic scorpion and an ancient war between vampires and demons is threatening to wipe out humanity. Armed with his powerful Shadow Hand and demonic weapons, Bukner must battle to save himself... and the world.


Friday, February 27, 2009

Rockin' Pretty, a music simulation game, exclusively for Nintendo DS!

Multi-instrument Musical Mayhem on Nintendo DS!

Aksys Games, a leading publisher of interactive entertainment software, is pleased to announce Rockin' Pretty, a music simulation game, exclusively for Nintendo DS! Developed by Arc System Works, creators of Princess On Ice, players will once again test their music-rhythm prowess to the beats of hard rock! Will you be able to rock on and take our lovely girls to fame?

Rockin' Pretty showcases four hard rocking instruments (guitar, bass, keyboard, and drums) for the player to master. Using the stylus, tap or strum the screen according to the beats to gain applauses and stardom. Use the stars collected in each level to unlock new outfits, hairstyles, and instruments.

"Girls of all ages with a love of music won't be able to resist the excitement and fun of being a rock star..." says Frank deWindt II, Project Lead, Aksys Games. "Fans of Princess On Ice and rhythm games alike, will definitely not be disappointed!"

Key Features:

• A Tale of Music and Love…
A great family story of teenage proportions, will our beloved girls pick love, or their love for music?!

• To Trade Or Not To Trade…
Using Nintendo DS™ wireless connectivity, players will be able to trade items, outfits, and instruments they unlock with friends and family!

• Fame Is All You Need!
Earn your audience's love and watch your girl's appearance change!

• On The Road To Stardom!
Perform your heart out at eight tour events, ranging from basic open-mic nights to stardom arena venues!


Rockin' Pretty has not been rated by the ESRB.

City of Heroes Free update includes design your own city

City of Heroes Free updateCity of Heroes takes another giant step with yet another free update, allowing players to design their own missions and story arcs to share with the entire City of Heroes community across all live servers.

City of Heroes set a new standard for player creation and customization in MMOs with its Character Creator. Now, players will be able to use an intuitive interface to create their own missions from the ground up by determining details ranging from environments, mission objectives, and enemies, to written fiction and character dialogue - giving their stories nearly infinite depth and personalization.

City of Heroes Free updateIssue 14 is scheduled for release in March 2009.

What is the Mission Architect?
Mission Architect is a new game system developed for the City of Heroes massively multiplayer game. It allows players to create their own stories and share those stories with other players on live servers. Creators can pick from hundreds of maps and thousands of characters. They can use existing characters or create their own custom enemies. They can get even more detailed and create full enemy groups, giving each enemy unique costumes and powers.
Players can also write all of the dialog for their story as well as decide on level of difficulty and enemy placement. It’s even possible to trigger one mission goal off of another, creating a chain of events within a single mission. Each story can have up to five chapters or missions and each mission can hold up to a maximum of 25 achievable goals.

For people who just want to play the user created content, there is an integrated mission browser that shows all the generated content. It can sort stories by name, highest rated, lengthy and recently added. It can also filter content to show only those with specific ratings, arcs that the player have or haven’t played as well as the alignment of the story.

As people play content, they’ll be able to rate that content from one to five stars. Creators will actually get in-game benefits for making content that gets highly rated and there will be a Dev Choice and Hall of Fame standing for the best of the best.

City of Heroes is rated PEGI 16+. For more information about City of Heroes go to http://eu.cityofheroes.com.

New game details for Pro Evolution Soccer 2009 on Nintendo Wii (PES)

Pro evolution soccer 2009
Enhanced AI, Improved Control and Added Game Modes Announced for the Nintendo Wii version of the Next Addition to the PES Franchise

Konami today revealed a new game trailer and details of Pro Evolution Soccer 2009 (PES 2009) for Nintendo Wii scheduled to be released on March 17th, 2009. The new game builds on the innovative control system pioneered by its predecessor, with PES 2009 adding a wide range of new control and content elements which will affirm its title as the definitive football title for the Nintendo console.

PES 2009 for Wii boasts three control methods, with the intuitive 'point and drag' interface of last year's game enhanced to make defending and shooting more instinctive. Players use the Nunchuck or the Wii Remote to control the player on the ball, while they pick the player to pass to, or send them on runs into space. The system has been further refined, so that close control is improved, but two new control ideas have also been implemented.

Users can now play PES 2009 using either the Classic Controller or the Wii Remote held sideways. Selecting these offers a take on the classic PES controls from other versions, with the many through balls, chips and shots allocated individual buttons on both controllers. Mixtures of these systems can also be allowed during co-op multi-player games, with users opting to use their favored system from the user-friendly menu system.

Other key advances include the addition of the UEFA Champions League, the greatest club competition in European football, as a stand-alone option with all-new introductory elements, and a greatly expanded Champions Road mode. Champions Road is an incentive-based game, wherein players are rewarded for success in competitions.

Players are given individual challenges, each of which is allocated a cash bonus. These range from scoring a hat-trick, to string multiple passes together, etc, and the monies raised can be invested in improving the facilities at the user's chosen club. Everything from oxygen capsules through to private jets can be bought, all of which will help entice better players to the club, while the players involved improve their experience stats during matches.

The Wii game also marks the introduction of the Master League, which has proven so popular in PES for other home gaming formats. Master League places the player in charge of a lowly team and charges them with building their reputation and success through astute signings, good on-field performances and training methods. Every aspect of overseeing a club falls under the user's jurisdiction, with success on field used to attract new talent and build a team of stars capable of succeeding in PES 2009's many cup and league competitions.

PES 2009 also has a greatly improved online mode, with up to eight players competing online at once, using two consoles and with four players per Wii console.

Anything up to four against four is allowed online, while offline allows for four players simultaneously. Players can also now use their Mii avatar within PES 2009's Match Mode, and within Champions Road. Miis are easily assigned in both sections, and can also be used within co-op matches.

Pro Evolution Soccer 2009 is currently available for the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, the PLAYSTATION 3 computer entertainment system, PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system, the PSP (PlayStation Portable) system and will be available for the Nintendo Wii on March 17, 2009.

Free Command and Conquer Generals 'Black Sheep' mission download link

Free Command and Conquer Generals Black SheepCelebrating their sixth anniversary of Command & Conquer Generals, Electronic Arts have opened their vault to let fans play the Global Liberation Army mission - not included when the game was launched.

This mission, named "Black Sheep," was the third Global Liberation Army campaign scenario. Involving players using a Toxin Tractor to spray a deadly corrosive agent on a town that'd been "corrupted beyond salvation" by the United States' propaganda.

Download the mission here...

The first real music teacher on Nintendo DS

music nintendo ds
Meet the 1st Music teacher on your NDS in this trailer!

Discover:
- How through 21 lessons you’ll be able to play and read music while having fun.
- The different modes: terminology, chords…
- The mini games to work out your musical ear, rhythm …
- All the songs you’ll be able to perform after playing this game.
- Learning how to play music is now possible on your Nintendo DS!

Watch the trailer

FEATURES

Music remains a major frustration for most of us. Only the bravest and those who could stand those boring and tough music lessons are now able to play music and live that unique experience. For the rest, you can still try to touch that feeling by playing a rhythm based video game and shaking a plastic guitar … but it will never be (sound) the same.
BUT now with “MUSIC”, a new edutainment game for the Nintendo DS coming out in April 09, you could learn and play music in a FUN and EASY WAY!
“MUSIC” brings a serious music learning method on DS developed by Shiro Tsuji a famous Japanese music teacher.
Learning music at all ages is now possible on DS!!!

Game features
• Smoothly learn the basics of the music theory with 21 lessons.

• Monitor your progresses and learning curve with 18 quick tests.

• Work out your musicality and skills across a series of fun mini games designed to practice your sense of rhythm, your memory, your musical ear…

• Practice what you’ve learnt on virtual instruments (the piano, the drum…).

• Plan your learning and practicing through your coach calendar.
Genre: Edutainment/ music
Platform: Nintendo DS
Publisher: Nobilis
Pegi : 3+

Dead Rising Chop Till You Drop Web episode Number 3

Dead Rising Chop Till You DropDead Rising Chop Till You Drop Web video number 3

Watch the trailer on the link below... please subscribe

Rock Band 2 on PlayStation 3, Nintendo Wii and PlayStation 2 this March and April in UK

rock band 2 UKElectronic Arts, Harmonix and MTV announce that Rock Band 2 will be released in the UK for Sony PlayStation and Nintendo Wii fans in the next two months.

The game's instruments costs will also be cut in the UK.

PlayStation 3 and PlayStation 2 Rock Band 2 will be available on 27th March, while a Nintendo Wii game will have to wait until 24th April.

Out for Xbox 360 since last year, and all formats in the US since then - but an exclusivity arrangement with Microsoft has kept it off rival consoles in Europe.

The game will sell for £49.99 on PlayStation 3, £39.99 on Nintendo Wii and £29.99 on PlayStation 2.

The prices of instruments will also be reduced drums to £49.99, guitars £39.99 - full instrument edition set down to £89.99.

Also new official software and hardware bundles at £119.99 for PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 and £109.99 for PlayStation 2 and Nintendo Wii.

Nintendo stop sales on R4 cartridges in Japan

R4 cartridge banLast year more 50 different games companies in Japan had teamed up with Nintendo to take the makers of the popular R4 Revolution cartridge for the DS to court. 

Today those companies made their first major blow, making it illegal to sell the R4 in Japan.

The R4 Revolution cartridge is by no means unique, but is one of the most popular homebrew devices available for the Nintendo DS. It's a Slot-1 MicroSD card adaptor which allows DS gamers to boot their own software on the DS. It can also be used to play downloaded 'copied' games, with Nintendo claiming it loses more than $975 million USD to piracy every year.

The mass lawsuit includes a total of 54 companies who claim they've been affected by the sale of the R4, including the likes of Capcom.

Today the Tokyo District Court found enough cause to block all legal sales of the the R4 across Japan, with further punishments still possible as the court case continues.

The block imposed by the court probably won't have all that much impact however, as Nintendo has already pressured the majority of game retailers into taking the R4 off their shelves according to Kotaku.

Source: Bit-Tech

Grand Theft Auto IV soundtrack available on iTunes

Grand Theft Auto IVThe launch of the extended Grand Theft Auto IV soundtrack experience starting today exclusively on the iTunes store in the US and iTunes store in Europe.

The first release is a collection of six original tracks produced exclusively for Grand Theft Auto IV: The Lost and Damned by elite underground hip-hop DJ and record producer Statik Selektah, featuring some of the most respected names in the genre.

Coming soon to the iTunes store, the second release features highlight tracks from from the overall soundtrack and gives listeners a taste of the updated genres that now play across Liberty City's airwaves via this new episode. Stay tuned for information on tracklist and release date.

Note that all of the new songs added to the Liberty City radio dial via the Grand Theft Auto IV: The Lost and Damned soundtrack can be seamlessly purchased and downloaded online through the in-game ZiT function. Simply tag songs you like on your in-game cell phone to create a custom playlist which will automatically be uploaded to your Social Club profile. A simple click-through to iTunes from there will pull up your custom playlist for purchase.

Also check out the Grand Theft Auto IV destination page on iTunes with each in-game radio station's playlist, exclusive albums and more, all accessible at www.itunes.com/gtaiv.

GTA Chinatown Wars Nintendo DS first HD video game trailer released

GTA chinatown nintendo dsRockstar have released the first story trailer detailing the main plot of the game.

You will play as Huang Lee, who is on a typical mission to revenge his father's death and, in true Asian style, to restore the honor of his family by punishing those who dared to mock it. But his trip won't be easy, as the criminals found in the Chinatown neighborhood are extremely dangerous and will make a lot of trouble for him. The gameplay fragments in between the classic GTA-style artwork show a lot of fun things like running around while explosions happen at every step, in a very arcade manner as even Rockstar Leeds have said.

Below is the trailer so you can all enjoy it. Don't forget to select High Quality from the menu of the YouTube player.



Miami Law video game on Nintendo DS this June

Hudson Entertainment to Lay Down Miami Law for Nintendo DS

Intense Action-Adventure Game Will Transform Players into Crime-Solvers

Nintendo DS owners will be challenged to help save the world with their fingertips in the upcoming game, Miami Law, set to be published by Hudson Entertainment, the North American publishing arm of HUDSON SOFT. Scheduled for release in June 2009, Miami Law contains explosive action, as well as crime-scene investigation, which players will use interchangeably to help save the city of Miami.
“Miami Law has a great mix of up-tempo action and mind-challenging forensic investigation that players will absolutely love,” said Mike Pepe, Director of Marketing at Hudson Entertainment.“The unique game design will turn the DS into both an action-adventure experience and a crime scene lab all-in-one.”
Miami Law is an action-adventure game packed with all of the ingredients of a prime-time TV show: an intricate storyline with a shadowy terrorist conspiracy, furious shoot-outs in abandoned warehouses, challenging crime-scene detective work and more. Players will have many opportunities to choose their path and change the story– either as the intense Law Martin from the Miami PD or the brainy Sara Starling from the FBI. Players will be presented with different challenges depending on which character they pick– playing as Sara will feature a puzzle-based, mystery solving element, whereas playing with Law will thrust the player into the action, often into car chases or shoot-outs where taking out the bad guys is the only way to get results. Unlockable extras, including Texas Hold‘Em Poker and Sudoku, are included to take the pressure off players when the tension gets thick.

Load more promotions for Xbox Live Gold subscribers

Xbox Live Gold subscribersMicrosoft are upping the anti with more benefits for Xbox Live Gold subscribers as reported on Electric Pig/Ars Technica...

Microsoft is upping the incentives to hand over your credit card details and subscribe to its Xbox LIVE Gold service with a weekly sales promotion for Xbox LIVE Arcade titles. The superb time-shifting platform puzzler, Braid, will be the first to get the discount treatment, being offered to paying subscribers for 800 Microsoft points (£6.80) instead of the usual 1200 (£10.20).

Each deal of the week aims to add more value to the £39.99 per year service, which already counts early demos and trailers, Netflix access (in the US only), and the chance to play multiplayer games online as a lure to Xbox 360 owners.

Future promotions won’t just include Xbox LIVE Arcade titles; game add-ons, Xbox Originals and ‘other great content’ will be available as well.

Even so, faced with the free alternatives provided by Wii’s Nintendo WiFi Connection and PS3’s PlayStation Network, coaxing players into paying for a multiplayer service is going to be an increasingly tall order in the coming months.