Snowboard Riot on Nintendo WiiWare

Hudson Entertainment, the North American publishing arm of HUDSON SOFT, today released a new batch of screenshots for Snowboard Riot, a distinctive snowboarding game unlike anything players have ever encountered for WiiWare.

In Snowboard Riot, snowboarding reaches new heights when players take to the slopes with action-packed racing utilizing weapons such as homing bullets and invisibility! Battle with up to 4 boarders using the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection to race online and blow away the competition. Weapons such as mines and turbo are available to give players an edge fighting it out on the mountain.





Gamers have several control options, as they can use the Wii Remote™ and Nunchuk™ or the Wii Balance Board™ to carve their way to victory. Just like a real snowboard, players can lean left and right on the Wii Balance Board, providing a realistic snowboard experience. Boarders can also choose from four characters to bomb the slopes, and can customize their look with Oakley apparel and goggles to improve their performance.

Snowboard Riot is rated E for Everyone by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB).

Call to Arms with the Announcement of the First Live Expansion for Warhammer Online - Age of Reckoning

The Armies of WAR Prepare to Go Berserk Over Dwarf Slayer and Orc Choppa Careers, New 'Land of the Dead' Dungeon Zone, and Live Events

GOA and Mythic Entertainment, an Electronic Arts studio, today announced the new “Call to Arms” live expansion for its award-winning MMORPG, Warhammer Online: Age of Reckoning (WAR).
Call to Arms will introduce an array of new content for WAR players, including two highly anticipated new careers – the Orc Choppa and the Dwarf Slayer – and a new dungeon zone called “Land of the Dead,” set in the desert realm of the Tomb Kings.

The Call to Arms live expansion, set to roll out for free in early March and running through the beginning of June, will also include three in-game live events, a new Realm vs. Realm (RvR) Scenario, added functionality to the Realm Wars section of the WAR website, the opening of the official WAR Forums, and a new free trial version of the game.

“Since the launch of Warhammer Online: Age of Reckoning, Mythic Entertainment and GOA have been committed to bringing European players a rich and enjoyable MMORPG experience“said Ghislaine Le Rhun Gautier, CEO of GOA. “The integration of these high quality, free 'live expansions' is a testament to both companies' continuing dedication to WAR players in 2009.“

“The launch of Warhammer Online: Age of Reckoning was only the first step in our ongoing quest to make a great MMORPG that players will enjoy for years to come. Over the next few months, we are going to be treating our players to the first of our ‘live expansions’ planned for the game,” said Mark Jacobs, VP and general manager of Mythic Entertainment. “With the addition of new careers and a huge Tomb Kings dungeon that is the spiritual successor to the Dark Age of Camelot™ dungeon, Darkness Fall, Call to Arms is an outstanding example of the massive amount of free content we are committed to delivering to WAR players now and in the future.”

Call to Arms Live Expansion Schedule

• ‘Call to Arms: Bitter Rivals Bitter Rivals’ Live Event (March) : Successful completion allows head start access to the new Orc Choppa and Dwarf Slayer careers. The event will also include the new Chaos-themed RvR Scenario, Twisting Tower.

• Two New Careers Join WAR (March): The Orc Choppa and Dwarf Slayer answer the Call to Arms.

• ‘Call to Arms: Beyond the Sands’ Live Event (April): Details to be revealed soon!

• ‘Call to Arms: Rise of the Tomb Kings’ Live Event (May): The race between Order and Destruction players begins to unlock the Land of the Dead for their Realm.

• ‘Land of the Dead’ Opens (June):The deserts of Nehekhara open to players with the addition of a new RvR-gated dungeon zone. To gain access to the Land of the Dead, opposing Realms must battle for control of the zone to access dozens of new Public Quests, instanced lairs, and a massive new Tomb Kings dungeon to plunder in search of the Casket of Souls.

More details on these and other new features soon to invade the Age of Reckoning will be revealed as the launch of Call to Arms grows near.

Bitter Rivals Answer the Call to Arms!

The Orc Choppa and Dwarf Slayer may be bitter enemies, but they have at least one thing in common: they live, eat, and breathe close-quarters melee combat. Choppas are ornery and savage, with a one track mind dead seat on bashin’ heads! This savage dedication makes them ferocious fighters, wreaking havoc throughout enemy lines purely for the sake of satisfying their own self-indulgent bloodlust.

The Slayer is driven by a solemn oath to atone for past sins through an honorable death in combat. However, Dwarfs are a stubborn folk and dying quietly is simply not in their nature. Slayers therefore become ruthless and terrifying fighters, throwing themselves into battle with no regard for their own well-being.

“The Orc Choppa and Dwarf Slayer are two of the most iconic characters in the Warhammer universe, and I have no doubt WAR fans will go berserk for them,” said Jeff Hickman, executive producer of Warhammer Online: Age of Reckoning. “Choppas represent the pure anarchy that the Greenskins embody, and the crazed, mohawk-sporting Slayers are their ideal archenemy. It won’t be long before you see both of them adding a new level of insanity to the Age of Reckoning!”

Based on the popular tabletop war game from Games Workshop, Warhammer Online: Age of Reckoning features revolutionary Realm vs. Realm conflict that will provide an engaging battleground for years to come. Available for PC and rated 12+.

Hotel Giant 2 PC video game opens for business

The sequel to the million-selling original and crafted by developer Nobilis, Hotel Giant 2 is an intuitive and fully customisable experience for players to achieve world domination through the construction of a new hotel empire.

Hotel Giant 2 features 26 locations from around the world including Paris, Los Angeles, Munich, Rome and Phuket for aspiring Donald Trumps to dominate the hotel market.
The key to success is careful observation of your guests’ behaviour and monitoring their happiness in the surroundings you have created for them. Build restaurants, health clubs, swimming pools and business centres to appease their needs, all the while keeping a close eye on your ratings in order to achieve that coveted 100% customer satisfaction rating.

As with any customer-facing business, one of the most important roles is in the business of hiring and firing. Guests will be quick to file complaints about less than satisfactory service; so following your staff’s duties carefully may prove profitable when deciding whether you should be brandishing the P45s or not.

Hotel Giant 2 will test your business brain, people skills and entrepreneurial spirit, and will be available in mid February at GAME, Amazon and Play at £19.99.

Akinai Games Announces Official Launch Date for Evasive Space on Nintendo Wii

Prepare for Evasive Action Beginning February 16 on WiiWare

Akinai Games, the downloadable games division of leading videogame publisher, YUKE’S Company of America, today announced a February 16th release date for Evasive Space for Nintendo’s WiiWare game service.

The new title, developed by High Voltage Software, is a top-down space adventure featuring unique use of the infrared capabilities of the Wii Remote to pilot your ship. As Konki, race against the clock on collection-based missions to rescue the stars from the insidious Dr. Dark Matter. Evasion is the key to survival as your goal is not to blast adversaries, but to skillfully avoid them while traversing through a variety of hazardous intergalactic environments for an experience that will challenge your reflexes.

Key features of the game include:

- Guide Konki through 20 hazardous space missions spanning four worlds
- Deftly pilot your ship with innovative use of the Wii Remote’s infrared pointer capabilities
- Pick up items and ship upgrades to enhance skills and increase your chances for survival
- Four person multiplayer matches locally on your home console
- Compete for best times with Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection online leaderboards

Evasive Space will be available for download on February 16th through the Wii Shop Channel for 1,000 Wii Points, and has been rated “E” for “Everyone” with Mild Fantasy Violence by the ESRB.

Backstory

Twinkle, twinkle, little star, how I wonder WHERE you are … The universe is going dark and it’s up to you Konki, Stellar Guardian, to put things right. Dr. Dark Matter and his roving band of space thieves have stolen many of the Constellation Stones that make up the heavens. Some stones have been sold to unscrupulous space types while others were lost during the getaway. Whatever the situation, you must come through. Suit-up, power-up, and live up to the task at hand. Recover the lost Constellation Stones and once again bring light to the night sky.

Star Ocean - The Last Hope Xbox 360 video game

STAR OCEAN - The Last Hope will be released across all PAL territories in spring 2009, on the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system.

With this highly anticipated prequel, acclaimed development studio tri-Ace Inc. brings the STAR OCEAN series to Xbox 360 for the first time. STAR OCEAN: The Last Hope continues the series traditions of soaring space opera, blending science fiction with fantasy for a unique RPG experience. The refined gameplay features four party members and team-oriented combat, while maintaining the innovative real-time battle system that has become a trademark of the STAR OCEAN series.

John Yamamoto, president and chief executive officer of Square Enix Ltd. comments, “STAR OCEAN has already proved to be a popular series in Japan, we now hope that players around the world can discover why. STAR OCEAN: The Last Hope is a stunning new adventure in the series that is sure to delight both fans and newcomers alike.”

About STAR OCEAN: The Last Hope

Story

The year is S.D. 10. In the aftermath of World War III, humanity voyages into the stars in search of a new home… and a second chance.

Features

• A prequel that combines sci-fi and fantasy elements, spanning multiple planets and the vastness of space itself to recount the origins of the STAR OCEAN universe.
• Exhilarating combat expands upon the franchise’s famous real-time battle system, including the amazing graphics and visual effect only possible on the Xbox 360
• Feature breathtaking CG movies by Visual Works, the cutting-edge studio whose previous work includes cut-scenes for the acclaimed FINAL FANTASY RPG series
• Fully localised for PAL territories with French, German, Spanish and Italian subtitles and menu screens

Say Hello to Pocoyo video game on Nintendo DS

PlayV to release officially-licensed Pocoyo title on 27th February

PlayV has announced that its officially-licensed pre-school title Hello Pocoyo! will be released for Nintendo DS on the 27th February. The DS interpretation of the phenomenally popular under-5s' educational series allows parents and children to interact with the wonderful world of Pocoyo and his band of friends via elementary logic puzzles and mini-games. Developed by Zinkia, Hello Pocoyo! represents another key release in PlayV’s eleven-title Q1 2009 line-up, which sees a strong lifestyle focus backed up by an on-going commitment to core audiences.

Hello Pocoyo! sees Pocoyo discover a magical pen with great powers. Whilst playing around with it, he accidentally makes his friends disappear, setting the story for a DS adventure like no other. As Pocoyo searches for his missing friends Pato, Elly and Loula, all of whom have special abilities to help him on his voyage of discovery, he’ll encounter a wealth of puzzles and activities ranging from colouring-in tasks and hand-to-eye co-ordination training through to dance competitions and elementary rhythm action events. With such a varied range of things to do, coupled with the title's faithfulness to the TV series, Hello Pocoyo! represents the ideal game for young children and their parents to play together.

Luiz Ferreira, PlayV’s sales manager comments: “Pocoyo is such a well-loved and well-recognised brand that we’re overjoyed to be bringing it to the UK marketplace. It’s an amazing fit for the DS, and we’ll be supporting Hello Pocoyo! with a full campaign that will include outlets such as Sky Kids, CiTV and a whole host of relevant children’s print press.”

Hello Pocoyo! will be released for Nintendo DS on the 27th February 2009.

About Pocoyo:

Pocoyo has been on air every week on CiTV throughout 2005 - 2008 regularly in the top 10 rated pre-school shows. It has been broadcasted on CiTV during 2008 up to 7 times daily. Pocoyo started strongly on Milkshake! since it’s 7th January 2008 launch. The latest ratings in March showed Pocoyo pulling in a best rating with a massive 327,000 viewers. The brand is supported by more than 15 well known licensors, amongst which are Bandai as Master Toy licensor and ITV DVD as Home Entertainment Distributor.

Pocoyo is co-produced by Zinkia and ITV Global Entertainment Ltd. Pocoyo is licensed to all worldwide territories by ITV Global Entertainment, excluding China, Italy, Latin America, Portugal and Spain where the property is represented by Zinkia.

Pocoyo, which airs in more than 100 territories, has been sold to an impressive line-up of broadcasters including: CiTV (UK), TVE (Spain), RTP (Portugal), Treehouse (Canada), ABC (Australia); Disney Pan Asia, Disney Pan Scandinavia, Kika (Germany), M6 (France), Discovery Kids (Latin America), Televisa (Mexico), WowWow (Japan), YLE (Finland), VRT (Belgium) TVNZ (New Zealand) and Alter Channel (Greece) amongst others.
Pocoyo was awarded Best Pre-school Animation series at the British Academy Children's Film and Television Awards (BAFTA), as well as Best TV Production at The Annecy International Animation Festival 2006, the Pulcinella Award 2006 for Best Pre-school and Best European programme and Best Children's Programme Promo in Singapore at the Promax BDA 2008.

Pocoyo is a fun-loving little boy, with an insatiable curiosity, who lives in a world of limitless opportunities. Featuring a cast of colourful, loveable characters, Pocoyo captures the imagination and stimulates children to watch, listen and interact, promoting creativity, self-awareness and self-confidence by learning through laughter.

Steven Spielberg award winning Boom Blox Bash party video game

Sequel to Award-Winning BOOM BLOX Takes Players from the Depths of the Sea to Outer Space for a Party Anyone Can Throw

Get ready for the ultimate blox-busting action as Electronic Arts today announced BOOM BLOX Bash Party for Wii, the sequel to the critically-acclaimed BOOM BLOX game for Wii.

EA’s collaboration with director and producer Steven Spielberg continues with BOOM BLOX Bash Party, and the destructive fun reaches new heights with richer multiplayer action and more than 400 new levels that will have players of all ages gaming together and solving action-packed puzzles under water, in zero gravity, and beyond!

“BOOM BLOX Bash Party is a wild social gaming experience,” said Steven Spielberg. “We know families and friends really enjoyed playing the original BOOM BLOX together, so we designed more explosive multiplayer experiences with BOOM BLOX Bash Party.”

BOOM BLOX Bash Party is even more fun to play with friends and family, featuring twice as many multiplayer challenges as the original, and now offers team-based challenges! Players can play with or against friends, solo or in teams, knocking down blocks, destroying towers, slinging and launching blocks and characters, for tons of high-energy, family-friendly fun!

BOOM BLOX Bash Party is packed with tons of new features that are sure to get the party started! The game showcases new block types, including: virus and conveyor blox, new blox shapes, such as: cylinders and wedges, and new tools that will make for even more destructive fun. Players will find twists on BOOM BLOX game play favorites like throwing and grabbing. Players now can also sling, launch, and blow the competition away with new cannon, paint ball and slingshot tools.

Even the characters are in on the action as BOOM BLOX Bash Party features a new cast of wacky blox characters. This time they don’t just cheer you on, they are now blox themselves and you can throw, stack or even launch them, utilizing them to create even more madness and mayhem!

The fun continues online as BOOM BLOX Bash Party enables players to download even more new levels via the Internet. With the press of a button, players will be able to grab, play and rate new levels from EA as well as levels created by members of the BOOM BLOX Bash Party community. Using the game’s easy-to-use Create Mode, players now have the power to share the levels they built with friends, or submit their masterpiece to be shared with the world! The expanded Create Mode lets players build and create like never before, giving them access to the same tool set the EA development team used to create each and every level in the game!

"In BOOM BLOX Bash Party we are taking the game elements to the extreme,” said Amir Rahimi, Senior Producer. “In the original BOOM BLOX, we really focused on perfecting the game’s physics so now we can push the boundaries of physics, offering exciting new challenges and completely new ways to play.”

Developed by the EA Casual Studios, BOOM BLOX Bash Party will be available in North America and Europe in Spring 2009. BOOM BLOX Bash Party has not yet been rated by PEGI.

Mahjong Zodiac and Str33t Racing video games on iPhone and Nintendo Wii

Mahjong Zodiac

Mahjong Zodiac is a unique combination of the classic mahjong and the three matching games. The classic mahjong gameplay with the intriguing twist, guaranteed to challenge anyone looking for a brain workout. Embark on a journey through ancient China and Buddha's life in this story-filled mahjong game. As you progress from level to level, a beautifully illustrated story is revealed, immersing you in a great gaming experience.

- 96 well balanced level
- unique hand drawn graphics
- particular mahjong tile set
- beautiful particle system
- authentic background music and sound effects

Release date: Q1 2009

Str33t Racing
Str33t Racing is a classic top-down racing title that has a unique power-ups system which requires players to achieve the best position. The game has been using the company's proprietary technology, which provides stunning graphical quality.

- 10 different dream cars
- 8 high quality racing tracks
- unique power-ups system
- car damage system
- glow, real-time shadow and particle effects
- multitouch and tilt control (iPhone version)
- remote and nunchuck control (WiiWare version)

Release date: Q3 2009

Supersonic Acrobatic Rocket-Powered Battle-Cars on PlayStation Network

Nitro-Fueled Battle-Cars Rocket Across the Pond

Psyonix Studios announced today that Supersonic Acrobatic Rocket-Powered Battle-Cars is now available across Europe for download on the PlayStation Network on the PLAYSTATION 3 computer entertainment system.

Battle-Cars features several unique rocket-powered cars with incredible physics-based maneuverability, including the ability to rocket into the air or accelerate at supersonic speeds on the ground by racing over boost strips, obtaining boost capsules or by performing a rapid succession of acrobatic flips. While in the air, cars can roll, flip, jump, dodge or spin in a freestyle fashion. In the team-based football game, players maneuver their vehicles to perform breathtaking saves, awe-inspiring shots and of course achieve supersonic speeds that literally turn your opponents into scrap metal. These abilities, combined with the players' own creativity and skill create a unique and thrilling experience every time.

The European release of Supersonic Acrobatic Rocket-Powered Battle-Cars will also include the recent US update that saw the addition of new features as well as a new Battle-Car arena.

Features included in recent update:

• New "Cosmic" arena*
• Improved performance in network games
• A server browser has been added during matchmaking
• Players can now view leader boards during matchmaking
• News updates appear on the online page
• Meters added to evaluate players' connection speed
• Headsets can be plugged-in or swapped during gameplay

*At absolutely no cost to the player "Cosmic," the newly added arena, presents a brand-new challenge to Battle-Cars combatants by integrating quarter-pipe ramps that lead up to each of the goals. Gamers will be graced with the majestic view of deep-space as the arena orbits a beautiful yet mysterious uncharted planet. Like other Battle-Car arenas, "Cosmic" places the focus on teamwork and communication, but never lets fun fall in second place.

"We've really been looking forward to releasing Battle-Cars in Europe," said Dave Hagewood, Founder/Development Director of Psyonix Studios. "In addition, we have already begun planning for community-based events and challenges that will pit gamers against developers!"

Battle-Cars' wide-ranging community involvement is supported through team and league play, as well as extensive and thorough statistical tracking, rankings and rewards for individuals and teams, including support for PLAYSTATION 3 system trophies. The game features three single player modes as well as team and league matches and scrimmage matches online. Using the full featured in-game video editor, players have the ability to save, upload and share their amazing triumphs and hysterical battle-car antics to their PLAYSTATION 3 system harddrive or upload clips directly to YouTube .

Supersonic Acrobatic Rocket-Powered Battle-Cars is available now as a free trial featuring both offline and online gameplay with full version players. The trial version can be updated to the full version for only €9.99 (£7.99) on the PlayStation Network.

The Skaven Take to the Pitch in this Blood Bowl Video Game Trailer!

Fast but fragile, the Skaven take on Lizardmen in today's video.

Focus Home Interactive and Cyanide Studio are pleased to release the 3rd of four trailers for Blood Bowl - this one featuring the vicious half-man half-rat race known as the Skaven, born of the foul magics of Chaos.

As we can see in today’s video, Skaven might not be the strongest of the Blood Bowl players, but boy are they fast! Skaven do what they do best – run around the pitch at blistering speed, the Gutter Runners moving the ball quickly with their inhuman agility, and avoiding the desperate attempts of the Lizardmen to stop them. As shown in the video, a running Skaven player is nearly impossible to capture, as he can dodge in and out of the defensive lines with ease, and if that fails, they can always call in a Rat Ogre for heavy support if needed!

An ultra-violent mix of Warhammer Fantasy and American football, Blood Bowl allows players to create the ultimate “fantasy” sports teams. Coaches can build bone-crushing teams of Orcs, Elves, Humans, Dwarfs and many more fantastic creatures – then throw them into the stadium for the ultimate blood sport! Blood Bowl is strategic, action-packed and violent, requiring coaches to use their best tactics, team design – and a dose of pure ruthless bloodlust always helps too!

Published by Focus Home Interactive and developed by Cyanide Studio, Blood Bowl is being developed for the PC and the Xbox 360 as well as for the handheld systems Nintendo DS and Sony PSP and is set for release on Q2 2009.

NetDevil invite players to experience Jumpgate Evolution at New York Comic-Con 2009!

Codemasters Online & NetDevil are pleased to announce that Jumpgate Evolution, the exhilarating, large scale space combat MMO will be featured at Comic-Con 2009, to be held in New York City, February 6-8th 2009. Attendees will have access to Jumpgate Evolution at the Codemasters booth No1256, where the game will be fully playable with the latest code of this exciting upcoming sci-fi space combat MMOG.

“We are excited to provide gamers with yet another chance to get some pre-BETA hands-on time with Jumpgate Evolution at Comic-Con New York”, said Scott Brown, President, NetDevil. “We look forward to welcoming visitors and are sure they will be blown away by the latest playable code on show.”

“With hundreds of thousands of fans already signed up to BETA and our global pre-orders due to go live in the coming weeks there isn’t a better time to experience the exhilarating space combat MMO that is Jumpgate Evolution”, said Andrew Matjaszek, Marketing Executive, Codemasters Online. “The game is shaping up to be one of the hottest games of 2009 and we look forward to delivering gamers a truly unique MMO experience like they have never seen before.”

Developed by the highly experienced US-based MMOG developer NetDevil, Jumpgate Evolution is an exhilarating space combat MMO, set in a vast expanding universe, that will allow players to choose from one of three playable Nations and engage in an intense action-packed gaming experience. While embarking on an immersive and accessible space adventure, players can trade valuable commodities, take part in exhilarating intergalactic battles, meet and play with friends and live out the dream of an elite hero. The game features a rich and varied universe to explore and has been designed for experienced and novice MMO players alike.

For more information on Jumpgate or to sign up for BETA visit www.jumpgateevolution.com

Challenge Me Maths Workout, a fun & challenging game to help you relax & improve your mind

Oxygen Games introduces the next in a new range of games designed to relax and stimulate your mind; Challenge Me: Maths Workout!
Challenge Me Maths
Relax, Play and improve your mind. Challenge Me: Maths Workout, with its extended gameplay and variety of features, gives you the chance to test yourself while having fun. Guaranteed to stimulate and surprise with hours of gameplay to keep you entertained, Challenge Me: Maths Workout is a relaxing and entertaining way to keep your mind challenged and stimulated.

Challenge Me: Maths Workout! Challenge Me: Maths Workout is the second game to be released in the Challenge Me series after Challenge Me: Brain Puzzles.

Incorporating two number puzzle games, Challenge Me: Maths Workout will not only bring you hours of fun and relaxation, it may also improve your Maths skills.

Hidden Logic! In hidden logic you must guess the value of your opponent’s cards whilst stopping them from guessing yours. Initially the cards are facedown on the Nintendo DS™ screen – a correct guess (from 1-11) will reveal the card. Play to reveal all of your opponents cards before they reveal yours!

Formulate! Formulate! is a numbers game that uses equations and cards to formulate answers. Each card, numbered 1-9 is also associated with a mathematical symbol such as +, - , x or ÷. You must move the cards around the screen to create a correct formula. Formulate! is a great way to sharpen up your arithmetic skills while relaxing at home or battling the hordes on the tube or bus!

Challenge Me: Maths Workout – Relax, Play and Improve Your Mind!

Free Flash Game Heileen - A Trip To Bavaria

A Trip To Bavaria, developed by Tycoon Games, is a historical-fiction visual novel game with multiple endings.

"This is my first experiment in Flash" said Riva Celso, programmer/designer of Tycoon Games, "But I really wanted to write a sort of flash prequel to my main downlodable game Heileen which was released in autumn 2008, to give the players a more detailed background of the main character of the story".

In A Trip To Bavaria we find Heileen on a short trip to a small unknown village near Munich, as a gift from her uncle Otto for her 16th birthday. The webgame features beautiful manga graphics, has 3 different endings and is absolutely free to play.

Please visit the page: http://www.tycoongames.eu/webgames/ to play the webgame.

Note: The latest version of Flash player (10) is required.

Prince of Persia Epilogue Downloadable Content for consoles February 26

Ubisoft have revealed new details about Prince of Persia Epilogue Downloadable Content (DLC). Scheduled to release for consoles February 26, 2009, Prince of Persia DLC continues the story of the Prince and Elika with a brand-new epic adventure.
Game features include:

- New Region: The Underground Palace – A corrupted underground palace from which the Prince and Elika need to escape in a new epic journey.

- New Power: Energize – Reconstruct destroyed areas of the environment to create a path and rush through it before it vanishes.

- New high pace: The new trap challenge – The Prince and Elika will face more cunning foes, cleverer traps and level design, adding more to the difficulty level in over 3 hours of gameplay.

- New Attack: Sprinting Clash – A duel move that lets you or the enemy trigger a sprint attack, charging towards each other, clashing your weapons fiercely.

- New Unlockable Skins: Finish the game and unlock exclusively, from the early development of the game, the Prototype characters of the Prince and Elika.

Play as Top Gun in Air Bandits PC video game

Climb into the cockpit of a vintage fighter plane and dogfight against the enemy in Air Bandits 1.0, a new spectacular and highly enjoyable shoot'em up arcade for Microsoft Windows.

Insofta Games announces Air Bandits 1.0, a new incredibly spectacular and highly enjoyable shoot'em up arcade for Windows PC. The game has been inspired by Sopwith, the legendary side-scrolling 2D arcade from the 1980s that involved piloting a biplane to destroy various ground targets.

In Air Bandits, you play as a pilot of a vintage fighter plane who must soar over the unfriendly territory, bomb the ground targets and take down enemy aircrafts, while avoiding their fire. The level is won when you destroy all targets displayed as red spots on the mini-map. Advancing through 26 increasingly challenging levels, you encounter many different types of ground targets, including fuel supplies, explosives, tanks, anti-aircraft guns and pillboxes. This all keeps the game fresh and exciting to play.

At the start of Air Bandits, you go through the beginner levels that serve as a fun way to learn the game. With every new level, you're presented with new challenges, requiring you to show your skills in aerobatics and warfare. The game will challenge you to fly under the bridges to kill targets hidden below, discover shortcuts to enemy fortifications, maneuver through the fire and explosion debris, and engage in hot duels with air bandits. These planes may pose a serious threat, but will also reward you with more points if you take them down.

To help you survive, there are some rescue tricks that work to your advantage. You can, for example, upgrade your health and get more ammo if you take down Zeppelins. Another lifesaving feature is destructible terrain, which allows you to dig tunnels in the ground. When there's a high rock on your way and you want to save your time, you can blast at it from the machine gun and drill a tunnel for your plane to fly through.

Unlike the twenty-something-old Sopwith, Air Bandits has been given a 21st century boost and shines with pleasant artwork and stunning animation. Special effects for fire, explosions and smoke are rendered aesthetically well and definitely add to the game play. Air Bandits features physics-based destruction. If you shoot at a ground target, it explodes, throwing the chunks of metal and ground all over the place almost realistically.

Designed with a casual gamer in mind, Air Bandits is all about having fun rather than worrying about which key on the keyboard to press. You can use only the mouse to control the aircraft: fly the plane in the desired direction, make loops, accelerate speed, drop bombs and attack enemy aircrafts.

With its fast paced action, cool tricks, stunning visual effects, and hours of replayability, Air Bandits 1.0 offers an absolutely yummy cocktail for the casual gamers of all ages.

Have fun as top gun in Air Bandits!

Pricing & Availability

Air Bandits 1.0 runs on Windows 95/98/Me/2000/XP/2003/Vista. A demo version is available. Downloading the demo gives the player an opportunity to experience 60 minutes of the unique, fun action of Air Bandits 1.0 before buying the full version. The full version available for $19.95, offers the unlocked gameplay, 16 new levels set in 4 different locations, and 6 new enemy types.

SBK Superbike World Championship Screenshots Show the Thrill of Racing

Throw on your helmet and racing gear, and get ready to jump into some amazing racing action, as today we have a new batch of screenshots from “SBK Superbike World Championship” the upcoming racing game from Conspiracy Entertainment. “SBK Superbike World Championship” is set for a Q1 2009 release on PC, PSP and next-generation consoles, and will drop players onto real-world tracks and superbikes from the sport's world championship tour. In the game, players can choose from a fully-detailed simulation mode, or enjoy quick races in arcade mode. Either way, the game is sure to please fans of high-speed racing!




In development by the Milestone, makers of renowned motorcycle racing titles, “SBK Superbike World Championship” offers something for both arcade and simulation-focused players. SBK's fast-paced arcade mode allows casual players to jump straight in and challenge the WSBK official teams and riders in a range of weather conditions and on some of the most famous tracks around the world - including Phillip Island (Australia), Monza (Italy), Silverstone (UK) and for the first time in the series, Miller Motorsports Park (Salt Lake City, USA). Players may also jump online to enjoy eight-player races on all the game's professional circuits and tracks.

For the true motorsports enthusiast, the SBK official videogame offers unparalleled realism in the modeling and the handling of the bikes. Players will be able to tune and set up their bike in a myriad of ways, including suspension, gearing, tires and braking. All these tuning settings will need to be optimized as the player progresses through each race event and as the conditions change from race-to-race throughout the championship series.

BattleForge Open Beta PC games released

Phenomic, an Electronic Arts studio, today announced that the real-time strategy (RTS) BattleForge will ship in North America and Europe on March 24 for PC. Prior to launch, players can get into the BattleForge Open Beta by registering at www.BattleForgeCardHunt.com. Worldwide, pre-order customers will receive four exclusive units, one from each faction: Fire, Frost, Nature and Shadow.
These units will feature exclusive card artwork and in-game animation. They will also be leveled-up, giving player’s a head start as they prepare for battle online. For more details on pre-ordering BattleForge, please visit www.battleforge.com.

Developed in Ingelheim, Germany, BattleForge is an epic RTS fantasy game that combines the pace of RTS gameplay with the customization of trading cards in an online environment where friends can play together. BattleForge pioneers strategy gaming with its online multiplayer design and robust community features.

In BattleForge, players use virtual trading cards to build the perfect army and lay waste to their foes. The cards are the tools of war each representing a spell, building or unit that is conjured directly onto the battlefield. This interface enables players to customize and combine factions, and play with a unique army of their own design. With no base building and production queues, BattleForge players are instantly immersed into fast-paced RTS action.

BattleForge features single-player and cooperative scenarios, as well as, Player vs. Player (PvP) ranked duels. Co-op battles are played in teams of two or four, or players can hurl themselves into epic 12 player battles for the greatest rewards. In these scenarios, players must work cooperatively to fulfill the mission and earn rewards. With co-op play, guilds, chat rooms, and a robust marketplace featuring direct trade, an auction hall, and in-game mail, BattleForge is the first RTS to combine the social and community aspects of an MMO with an exciting RTS.

Featuring action-packed co-op and PvP, the ability to build your own army, and robust community features, BattleForge offers unique RTS gameplay that is easy to learn but still prepared to handle expert players.

Developed at Phenomic Studio, BattleForge has been rated T for Teen by the ESRB and 12+ for PEGI. For more information about the BattleForge, visit www.BattleForge.com.

Legacy of Ys - Books I & II for Nintendo DS with soundtracks

It look oh-so-Ys-ee publishers Atlus announced that Legacy of Ys - Books I & II for Nintendo DS will ship two weeks later than originally scheduled, now slated to bump into retail stores on February 24, 2009.

This was of course immediately accepted because this delay would allow for each and every launch copy of the game to magically transform into a premium boxed release, with the soundtrack CD-formerly intended as a pre-order bonus-to physically be included with each and every copy of the game's first print run.

This unexpected upgrade signals the return of Atlus Spoils, a fan appreciation campaign intended to give a little extra something to the company's faithful followers as a thank you for their continued support. The program is planned to remain active indefinitely during 2009, meaning fans can expect additional bonuses and extras in future Atlus releases throughout the year.

"While we're never eager to announce delays for our products," began Tim Pivnicny, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Atlus, "we are incredibly excited to be able to upgrade the final release of Legacy of Ys to a premium boxed package. The soundtrack CD, once a bonus for pre-orders, is now going to be offered to everyone who picks up a copy from the game's limited first print run."

One of the most heralded action RPG franchises of all time, Legacy of Ys: Books I & II delivers the first two epic adventures of the famed saga on one cartridge, presented with a series of never-before-seen enhancements. Now, the finished North American launch will be available in a special boxed release, with a soundtrack CD featuring the game's famed score included with each and every copy of the game's first print run.

Legacy of Ys: Books I & II is now scheduled for release on February 24, 2009, with an MSRP of $34.99.

About Legacy of Ys: Books I & II
Stories tell of a land of yore, now shrouded by centuries of time forgotten, called Ys. Despite its great knowledge, endless wealth, and bountiful prosperity, a sudden and unexpected cataclysm devastated the realm. Soon, its memory had faded completely from the minds of man.

Centuries later, a young adventurer named Adol set sail to explore the world and leave his mark on history. During his travels, he learned of the tragic tale of Esteria, a once prosperous island now inexplicably engulfed by a crippling storm. Adol plotted a course for the besieged isle, curious to unravel the mystery...

Key Features

• Two Legendary RPGs on One Cartridge! - Experience two all time classics that helped shape the action RPG genre... Now on a portable system!
• Upgraded Ys Experience - Behold remastered 3D graphics, a remixed musical score, and new enemies and equipment to discover. Touch control and local wireless multiplayer for up to four people deepen the adventure, while difficulty levels and dual control schemes tailor the experience to the gamer.
• The Definitive Story - Available to North American audiences for the first time, this ultimate translation delivers the most substantial version of the famous Ys story ever made!

Legacy of Ys: Books I & II has been rated "T" for Teen with Alcohol and Tobacco Reference, Animated Blood, Mild Fantasy Violence, Mild Language, Mild Suggestive Themes, and Partial Nudity by the ESRB.

Pranksterz - From Russia with Love PC game

In a new installment of the Pranksterz franchise, the player takes on the role of a Russian agent, working undercover in the United States. His main task is to piss off potential spy thus stopping his activity...

The concept of the game is similar to previous episodes; however, visuals and graphics have been greatly improved. Pranks have become more sophisticated and the enemy is much more artful.

Game Features:

• 13 episodes of pranks filled with fun
  
• Stylish 3D graphics with cartoonish characters
  
• Convenient interface and easy to use controls
  
• Captivating soundtrack
  
• Feel like you’re in the shoes of a Russian spy
  

Another explosive World to discover in Big Bang Mini!

ABYSS: The final world has you playing underwater.

Not only do you have to avoid shooting the red mines in the Abyss World, but you will have to keep picking up air bubbles to keep yourself from drowning at the same time.

Drag yourself over the air bubbles to keep your air supply up during each level. If you find that there are too many enemy bullets on screen, just use the Lasso to get rid of them.

Aim carefully, as hitting the mines will cause instant death. Try using the Homing Missiles until the amount of enemy fire becomes manageable with the Lasso. Slow pace and precision shooting will be necessary when mines are on screen.

The Lasso doesn’t need to recharge, so use it as much as you can in each level. World Upgrade: Lasso: The Lasso will cause all the enemy fire inside it to disappear. To create it, just draw a complete circle on the touch screen. Be aware, the enemy fire will take a second to disappear completely. The Lasso can be created anywhere on-screen, even with your ship on the inside.

SFX360 & Game Wars Host a Halo 3 & Gears of War 2 Tournament at Community Vibes IV

SFX360, along with GameWars, present an epic doubleheader tournament filled with plenty of fragging action as Battle Rifles and Lancers collide. The dual main event features a Halo 3 2v2 Tournament and a Gears of War 2 2v2 Tournament. The action takes place on Saturday, February 21st at Club Ecco in Miami, Florida during Gamertag Radio's "Community Vibes IV."

Both tournaments are FREE to enter, and will feature plenty of prizes for the top three teams. Prizes include gaming headsets from Tritton Technologies. Also there a wide variety of prizes from Mindzeye Studios, Entertainment Consumers Association (ECA), and Microsoft, as well as other random prizes.

Registration for both tournaments begin at 3:00 with the action beginning at 5:00 sharp so form your teams right now. By the way, both tournaments are FREE to enter. Before the events begin you can practice your skills on one of 32 screens. If your Halo 3 skills are not up to par, then take part in a special Halo 3 Clinic presented by South Florida MLG Pros, The Florida Jackalopes.

WHAT: Halo 3 and Gears of War 2 2v2 Tournaments

WHEN: Saturday, February 21, 2009

WHERE: Club Ecco: 168 SE 1st St. Unit 1A, Miami, FL 33131

WHO: SFX-360.COM, WWW.MYSPACE.COM/MYGAMEWARS, and you

COST: None, it's FREE!!

SFX360 is an Xbox Community site with a goal of bringing gamers face to face. In the past year, we have grown from a small meetup group to a large online community. SFX360 holds a monthly LAN on the first Saturday of each month where gamers can come together at Flipper's Cinema in Hollywood, Florida. SFX360 also takes part in a weekly game night on Sunday nights where we play the latest games online with our members and the Xbox community.

SFX360 features a weekly podcast where we recap the past week's news, review and preview the latest games, and plenty of banter. Our shows are unique and different from other sites, because we are live and anything goes. The show is hosted by JVB and SFX Lady J. Our staff have a true passion for gaming and frequently appear on our podcasts. They include SFX Pallidian, SFX BuzzKiller, SFX BigAnt, Dephin, SFX Jav and GI Jane PMS. We've also had special guests including Mike Capps (President of Epic Games) and Carlos Feros (Dom Santiago, Gears of War 1 & 2).

Whether your a hardcore noob pwner or even a casual weekend warrior, SFX360 is about coming together as a community and sharing a passion of what we love. This is no hobby or any sort of newtime fad, gaming is here to stay! We at SFX360 are here for you to keep you informed of the latest info as well as keep you entertained. Our passion for gaming is just like yours so what are you waiting for? Stop gaming alone and screaming at your tele and join the new revolution!

Cafe Sudoku video game on N-Gage

Become a part of the Café Community with the highly addictive Café Sudoku from Digital Chocolate on N-Gage. With an infinite number of puzzles to crack across five different difficulty levels, the fun is endless in this brand new numerical brain-teaser!

Create a character, form a café and share Sudoku strategies with other players in the Community, then grab a quick game on the go. Café Sudoku is suitable for all skill levels. In-game hints and tips give players the chance to learn how to play the game on the move and develop their Sudoku skills to unlock items for both their café and character.

Vibrant animations bring the dynamic gameplay to life and make Sudoku more exciting than ever in the most social Sudoku game yet. Flex your mental muscle in the game that anyone can play anytime, anywhere.

Sudoku has never been this mobile!

Café Sudoku is now available on
http://www.n-gage.com