PlayStation 3 2009 line up is amazing...

With games like Heavy Rain, White Knight Chronicles and Ratchet and Clank Sony believe they have an amazing line-up of games for 2009.

“I think we had a very good lineup in 2008, especially for the holidays, but in 2009, it’s an absolutely amazing lineup,” reckons Scott Rohde, Sony Computer Entertainment America’s VP of product development. “It’s one of the best lineups that we’ve ever put out in a single calendar year, so it’s very, very exciting.”

Read the full story over at Edge here...

Rock Band expands The Who collection for Wii plus new tracks from Offspring, R.E.M. and Richard Thompson

Harmonix and MTV Games announced today 12 new tracks coming this week to the Rock Band Music Store catalogue of downloadable content for Nintendo Wii home videogame console from Nintendo, including eight more tracks from classic rock band The Who! The lineup also features music from alternative music pioneers R.E.M. and The Offspring, as well as a track from British guitarist and songwriter Richard Thompson.

Wii Rock Band owners can expand their Who library with a diverse selection of tracks from the iconic classic rock band. The Who tracks include “Behind Blue Eyes” and “Going Mobile” from Who’s Next (1971), “Amazing Journey” featured on the 1969 album Tommy, “Leaving Here” from the 1965 album My Generation (Deluxe Edition), “Sea and Sand” from Quadrophenia (1973) and the title track “Who Are You” from the band’s 1978 album. The offering will also include “Eminence Front” featured on the 1982 album It’s Hard and “Real Good Looking Boy” from Then and Now (2004).

The Rock Band Music Store for Wii will also add more alternative hits to the library with music from The Offspring and R.E.M. The lineup includesThe Offspring’s “All I Want” featured on the band’s 1997 album Ixnay on the Hombre and “The Kids Aren’t Alright” from Americana (1998), plus R.E.M.’s breakthrough hit “Losing My Religion” from the 1991 album Out Of Time.

Music from rock guitarist Richard Thompson rounds out this week’s content update with “The Way That It Shows” from Thompson’s 1994 album Mirror Blue.

All tracks come from the back catalogue of Rock Band music already released to owners of Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system. Wii fans can expect a rollout of previously released downloadable Rock Band content until the entire back catalogue of more than 600 songs is available.

Release Date: Tuesday, March 24, 2009

** Dates for Rock Band game tracks are tentative and subject to change **

Tracks:

The Who “Amazing Journey”
The Who “Behind Blue Eyes”
The Who “Eminence Front”
The Who “Going Mobile”
The Who “Leaving Here”
The Who “Real Good Looking Boy”
The Who “Sea and Sand”
The Who “Who Are You”
The Offspring “All I Want”
The Offspring “The Kids Aren’t Alright”
R.E.M. “Losing My Religion”
Richard Thompson “The Way That It Shows”

(All tracks are original master recordings)

Price: $2.00 (200 Wii Points) per track

Location: In-game Rock Band 2 Music Store (Wii Points must be purchased
through the Nintendo Wii Shop Channel)

MTV Games, Harmonix and EA Announce Rock Band Track Pack Classic Rock on Consoles May 19, 2009

New Rock Band Track Pack Allows Players to Download On-Disc Songs Into Their Rock Band Music Library at No Additional Cost [1]

Harmonix, the leading developer of music-based games, and MTV Games, a part of Viacom’s MTV Networks, along with distribution partner Electronic Arts, today announced plans for a North American release of Rock Band Track Pack Classic Rock for the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, PLAYSTATION 3 computer entertainment system, PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system and Nintendo Wii home video game console from Nintendo on May 19, 2009.

Rock Band Track Pack: Classic Rock is a standalone software product that allows owners of Rock Band and Rock Band 2 to keep the party going with more hit songs from the pantheon of rock music. In addition, Rock Band Track Pack: Classic Rock, like all Rock Band software, is compatible with all Rock Band instrument controllers and other current music-based video game peripherals. The 20-song pack features an outstanding mix of Rock Band fans’ favorite classic rock hits including songs by mega artists The Who, Rush, Boston and Police.

Fans who buy the Rock Band Track Pack: Classic Rock for Xbox 360 and PLAYSTATION 3 system can play directly from the disc or download the songs onto their consoles’ hard drives through a free offer with Xbox LIVE® online entertainment network or the PlayStation®Network. Once downloaded, the songs will automatically appear in the player’s custom Rock Band library and can be integrated into setlists and played in all game modes. With more than 600 tracks available in the Rock Band music catalogue and regular releases of downloadable content every week, Rock Band Track Pack: Classic Rock is yet another way rockers can continue to expand and customize their music libraries.

Complete Track List:

Artist Song Title Decade

1. Boston Peace of Mind 1976
2. Boston Rock and Roll Band 1976
3. Dead Kennedys California Über Alles 1987
4. Dead Kennedys Holiday in Cambodia 1987
5. Free All Right Now 1970
6. George Thorogood & the Destroyers Bad to the Bone 1982
7. James Gang Funk #49 1970
8. Jethro Tull Hymn 43 1971
9. Lenny Kravitz Let Love Rule 1989
10. Pat Benatar Hit Me With Your Best Shot 1980
11. The Police Can't Stand Losing You 1978
12. The Police Truth Hits Everybody 1978
13. Rush Closer to the Heart 1977
14. Rush Red Barchetta 1981
15. Siouxsie and The Banshees Kiss Them For Me 1991
16. Steve Miller Band Take the Money and Run 1976
17. Steve Miller Band The Joker 1973
18. The Stone Roses Love Spreads 1994
19. The Who Baba O'Riley 1971
20. The Who Behind Blue Eyes 1971

**All 20 tracks utilize original master recordings**

Price: $29.99 MSRP

The Rock Band Track Pack: Classic Rock is the latest in a series of popular software releases developed to increase player’s library of music for the Rock Band platform including Rock Band Track Pack 1, Rock Band Track Pack 2 and AC/DC LIVE: Rock Band® Track Pack™.

The Rock Band franchise is the ultimate platform for music fans and gamers to interact with music like never before. The game challenges players to put together a band and tour for fame and fortune – all while learning to master lead/bass guitar, drums and vocals. Featuring the most master recordings of any music game ever by the world’s biggest rock artists, the Rock Band music catalogue includes tracks that span every genre of rock ranging from alternative and classic rock, to heavy metal and punk.

Rock Band Track Pack: Classic Rock is rated “T” for Teen with a descriptor of Mild Lyrics by the ESRB. Rock Band and Rock Band 2 are currently available for Xbox 360,
PLAYSTATION 3 and PlayStation 2 systems and Nintendo Wii.

The first real 'Music' teacher on Nintendo DS - June 5th

Learn how to read and play music in 21 lessons!

In 21 lessons you will:

Work on your musical ear
For example, identify the different kinds of sounds
Study music theory
Learn the chords on a piano and/or on a guitar

See below for details about the content of all 21 lessons.


Test yourself on what you’ve learned by playing the quick tests after each lesson.

Learning to play music is now possible on your Nintendo DS!

LESSON 1
Let's get a feel for the pitch of sounds.

LESSON 2
Listen to the song and feel how the pitch changes.

LESSON 3
Learn about "Do Re Mi".

LESSON 4
Learn the basics of musical notes and how they express a sound's length.

LESSON 5
Learn about dotted notes (1).

LESSON 6
Learn about dotted notes (2).

LESSON 7
Learn about rests.

LESSON 8
A summary of notes and rests.

LESSON 9
Learn about measures and beats.

LESSON 10
Learn how to follow a rhythm.

LESSON 11
The classic musical staff - First, let's look at the line names.

LESSON 12
The G, or treble clef.

LESSON 13
The F, or base clef. Don’t forget the treble clef.

LESSON 14
Learn about whole tones and half tones, as well as sharp and flat sounds.

LESSON 15
Learn about major keys.

LESSON 16
Learn about minor keys.

LESSON 17
Learn how to read the sharps and flats that are used in musical scores.

LESSON 18
Learn about the symbols used to express tempo (or speed).

LESSON 19
Explaining the symbols used to express accents.

LESSON 20
Explaining the symbols used to express performance order.

LESSON 21
Explaining the symbols of expressions in music.

Brand-new version of Diner Dash for Xbox LIVE Arcade, PlayStation Network and WiiWare

Players to Take Bite Out of Award-Winning Diner Dash When it Debuts on Consoles This Summer

Fans of the classic franchise Diner Dash can rejoice as Hudson Entertainment will dish out a brand-new version of Diner Dash for Xbox LIVE Arcade, PlayStation Network and WiiWare starting this Summer. As in the classic action-strategy game, players will take control of Flo, a waitress building a run-down diner into a success, one customer at a time. The Diner Dash series, licensed by Hudson from PlayFirst, Inc., has sold more than 2 million units worldwide and has won multiple awards, including an IGN Editors’ Choice Award, a GameSpot Editors’ Choice, and a Zeeby.

“We’re delighted to bring Flo and Diner Dash to new gen consoles for the first time,” said Sabine Duvall, Vice President of Product Development at Hudson Entertainment. “Players have fallen in love with the award-winning series because of its quirky characters and fast-paced fun.”

Diner Dash will come to life in 3D on new generation consoles when players have the option to take direct control of Flo as she runs around to seat patrons, take orders, deliver food, take payment and bus tables as efficiently as possible within the time limit allowed. Players fond of the traditional control schemes may also use a point-and-click style with hotkeys to aid Flo in her quest for customer satisfaction, which is reflected in a heart meter that empties as customers lose patience. If the meter empties completely, then the customer will leave the restaurant. Servers looking to play with co-workers can join with up to seven other players in multiplayer across four diners in Team Dash or go 1 on 1 in Head to Head mode.

Diner Dash will be available for download on Xbox LIVE Arcade, PlayStation Network and WiiWare this Summer.

Scratch - The Ultimate DJ Gameplay, Character DJs and Environments for Scratch: The Ultimate DJ, Coming Soon to Next Generation Consoles

Genius Products today released the first trailer for the highly anticipated Scratch: The Ultimate DJ, one of the first music rhythm games for fans of hip-hop. With creative and technical input from Mix Master Mike, legendary Scratch DJ for the Beastie Boys, Scratch - The Ultimate DJ features an innovative turntable style controller and more than 60 licensed and original hip-hop and R&B songs from mainstream and underground artists including Kanye West, Tech N9ne, Run DMC, Eric B and Rakim and Deltron 3030.

In addition to a heavy-hitting setlist, Scratch: The Ultimate DJ features an array of customizable DJ personalities, each with their own unique style and attitude, and distinctive urban environments, including 12 unique venues varying from homemade garage set-ups to million-dollar mansions. Players can put their own spin on tracks with “battle record” samples, including cartoon noises and power tool sounds, and also use a USB microphone to record their own samples. Additionally, Scratch Blocks allow players to earn points for creativity and scratch tricks such as the “One Click Flare” or “Crab Grab.”



Scratch: The Ultimate DJ is coming soon to next-generation consoles. For more information, please visit: http://www.scratchvideogame.com.

Water Warfare first person soaker videogame exclusively downloadable for WiiWare

Nintendo Wii owners will have a new way to beat the heat this summer as Hudson Entertainment splashes up Water Warfare, a “first person soaker” videogame, exclusively downloadable for WiiWare. The family-friendly “soaker” is set to be published by Hudson Entertainment, the North and South American publishing arm of HUDSON SOFT.

The game has been rated E10+ for Everybody 10+ by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB).

“Water Warfare is the perfect summer videogame to beat the heat.” said Sabine Duvall, Vice President of Product Development at Hudson Entertainment. “It’s easy to download and play this ‘first person soaker’ – just get your squirt gun ready and go for it!”

In Water Warfare, players go head to head or team up as they run around playgrounds and beaches to drench each other with squirt guns. They’ll be able to protect themselves with, what else, raincoats, towels and more. There are other items, like the umbrella, which can attack and defend at the same time! With different types of squirt guns, pick-up items, offline and eight player online multiplayer, there’s tons of squirt gun fun to be had. Throughout the game, players use the Nunchuk™ to control movement, aim using the Wii Remote™, and can load up on different squirt guns, such as shotguns and rocket launchers, to soak their opponents.

Go, Diego, Go! Great Dinosaur Rescue! video games out on Nintendo DS and Nintendo Wii - screenshots video

Based on the hugely popular Nickelodeon pre-school TV show, Go, Diego, Go! Great Dinosaur Rescue! allows players to travel through time with Diego and Baby Jaguar to help Maia the Maiasaura find her way back to her family in this amazing rescue adventure!



You’ll have to climb rock walls, travel along monkey bars, solve puzzles and even jump on a pogo stick to help Diego’s friend find her way home on this prehistoric journey. Featuring authentic character voices, players are encouraged to use over 12 Nintendo Wii motions, such as climbing, flapping, pulling and stomping, and many other activities designed to make the most of Nintendo DS and Nintendo Wii functionality. Al rescate!

Go, Diego, Go! Great Dinosaur Rescue! is available from all good videogame stockists, RRP £19.99 (Nintendo DS) and RRP £19.99 (Nintendo Wii).

Halo 3 and Gears of War 2 - Snowblind map pack Xbox Live game add-ons

Spring is nearly here, and with it comes new life for some of this generation’s biggest, most action-packed games, exclusively on Xbox LIVE. With more than 35 million in combined sales, the “Halo” and “Gears of War” franchises have set the bar for multiplayer games on the console.

Now players of “Halo 3” and “Gears of War 2” will see the multiplayer experiences made even better by great new Game Add-ons.

On 31st March, the Snowblind map pack gives “Gears of War 2” players a chance to cool off with four new, winter-themed environments: Grindyard, Under Hill, Courtyard, and a frozen version of the “Gears of War” favourite, Fuel depot. Hot on the heels of Snowblind comes the highly-anticipated “Halo 3” Mythic Map Pack, releasing 9th April with three new maps: Assembly, Orbital and Sandbox. Both Game Add-ons will be available only on Xbox LIVE for 800 Microsoft Points.

In addition to the exclusives mentioned above, Xbox 360 is the only console where you can extend your play with Game Add-ons from many of the year’s top titles. From “Fallout 3” episode The Pitt (24th March) to the “Left 4 Dead” Survival Pack (21st April), publishers from across the industry recognize that Xbox LIVE is the premier online gaming destination, and a one-stop shop for Game Add-ons.

Ultimate Soccer Boss Enters Open Beta

Ultimate Soccer Boss to distribute thousands of open beta keys to MMOABC and leading game portal destinations

MMOABC, a leading massively-multiplayer online (MMO) portal, is proud to announce the start of open beta testing for Ultimate Soccer Boss, an MMO Sports Manager Game powered by Digenetics, Inc. Ultimate Soccer Boss (USB) is the first ever free-to-play soccer manager browser game powered by Digenetics' patented adaptive evolutionary learning technology which allows players' skills to evolve. Players interested in participating for open beta can sign up at www.ultimatesoccerboss.com starting March 25th and will run up till its gold launch.

Unlike other sports manager games, Ultimate Soccer Boss will feature players that actually evolve their skills over time based on variables such as numbers of plays, training matches, and overall management of the club, thus resulting in a truly unique game play.

“The open beta event is a major milestone for all partners involved in the development and launch of Ultimate Soccer Boss to soccer fans from around the world,” said MMOABC Founder and CEO Andy Tong. “It will be exciting to see how our MMO community interacts with other soccer managers from around the globe as the results will be unprecedented.”

”We’re excited to be yet another step closer to the launch of Ultimate Soccer Boss where soccer fans around the world will be able to enjoy a truly unique soccer manager game,” said Digenetics CEO James Lin.

“Soccer fans can get a taste of the first evolving soccer manager game during the open beta event of Ultimate Soccer Boss,” said Webplus CTO Brian Keller-Heikkila. “They can manage a fully-evolving team while helping us test and improve the experience.”

Ultimate Soccer Boss updates include updated sign up process, improved feedback system, shop upgrades, social networking improvements, hall of fame feature, and refinement of match highlights. Open beta allows the development team to better observe overall game play, perform system stress tests, and ultimately perfect the Ultimate Soccer Boss experience.

Ultimate Soccer Boss is slated for released in spring 2009.

Sequel to PC game Mob Ties Tokyo - Mob Ties Moscow in development

E.V.E. Digital has started development on a sequel to their PC game “Mob Ties Tokyo”. The sequel to be titled “Mob Ties Moscow” is expected to be released by the two-person development team, Chance Miller & Jillian Fontaine, in early 2010.

“Since our first “Mob Ties” game launched in early March, we have been getting an enormous amount of positive feedback from the gaming community.” Chance says. “One of the top comments we receive from people who have played the game is how they love the “retro” feel of it.”

The original game was made on a tiny indie budget, so having the graphics level of a high-end multi-million dollar title was not an option for the developers, who intend to keep the retro style going in their next game.

“In the end, it all worked out really well.” Jillian adds. “Many gamers have said online that the novelty of high-end, expensive “eye candy” wears off after the first level. What matters most to PC game players is a great storyline, character interaction and exciting game play.”

With the sequel, the team plans to continue the same successful formula of combining an immersive storyline with non-stop “shoot ‘em up” action.

“Mob Ties Tokyo” is currently available at www.MobTiesGame.com

Pop'Em Drop'Em SAMEGAME, Bomberman '94 and DETANA TWIN BEE games added to WiiWare and Virtual console

Are you immune to this season's rampant basketball fever? If so, the Nintendo Wii Shop Channel invites you and your friends to set up an action-packed tournament of your own with a fresh crop of downloadable games. This week brings an instantly irresistible puzzle game to the ever-expanding WiiWare library, plus a pair of classic TurboGrafx16 import titles for the Virtual Console – one a vintage vertical-scrolling shooter, the other featuring the beloved Bomberman. Draw up your brackets, grab those Wii Remote™ controllers and shoot for the top spot.

Nintendo adds new and classic games to the Wii Shop Channel at 9 a.m. Pacific time every Monday. Wii owners with a high-speed Internet connection can redeem Wii Points to download the games. Wii Points can be purchased in the Wii Shop Channel or at retail outlets. This week's new games are:

WiiWare

Pop'Em Drop'Em SAMEGAME (Hudson Entertainment, 1-4 players, Rated E for Everyone, 500 Wii Points): SAMEGAME is a simple yet engrossing puzzle game where you must clear matching blocks in sets of two or more. Score high by clearing out more blocks at once. If you manage to clear the entire grid, you can keep on playing with a whole new layout. Getting rid of all those blocks is the key to racking up points. Adjust the difficulty level in a one-player game by trying different grid sizes and multiple colors. Up to four players can face off in any one of three multiplayer modes. “Fame Game,” the most straightforward choice, is similar to the one-player version. “Shame Game” turns the tables by forcing players to go for the lowest score. “Blame Game” is a free-for-all as everyone vies for blocks on one big grid. Choose from different block styles, background graphics and music to customize your playing experience.

Virtual Console

Bomberman '94 (TurboGrafx16, 1-5 players, Rated E for Everyone—Comic Mischief, 700 Wii Points): Bomberman has arrived to restore peace on the planet, which has been split into five parts by an evil hand. In addition to the nine members of the Bomber Family, the character Rooi shows up to lend a hand. Jump on the eggs that appear from destroyed soft blocks and you can ride one of five types of Rooi. Each Rooi has different special abilities—use them well and you'll ride to victory.

DETANA TWIN BEE (TurboGrafx16, 1-2 players, Rated E for Everyone—Mild Cartoon Violence, 700 Wii Points): It's the popular vertical-scrolling shooter renowned for its cute and comical world. Here come Twinbee and Winbee on a mission to save the planet from evil alien invaders. Standing in their way are six stages full of goofy enemies. Play as Twinbee in single-player mode, or team up with Winbee in two-player cooperative mode. With powerful attacks like Big Shot, or Twin Attack and Burst Attack in two-player mode, there's plenty of sting in their arsenal. Use your Shot to transform Bells into items with various effects. Stock up on these bad boys to expand your attack range and really have a blast.

Remember that Wii features parental controls that let adults manage the content their children can access.

Bookworm iPhone and iPod video game Apple's App Store

No 1 Digital Word Game Now Available for iPhone and iPod Touch

PopCap Games, the leading developer and publisher of casual games, today announced the launch of its hugely popular word game Bookworm for the iPhone and iPod touch. The game is available now for U.S.$4.99 from Apple’s App Store on iPhone and iPod touch, or at: www.itunes.com/appstore/ Bookworm is the most popular digital word game of all time, and this new adaptation has been customized for Apple’s highly successful smart devices, and contains nearly the entire volume of words from the Oxford English Dictionary, plus a host of new features found only in this version.

“We’re thrilled to bring Bookworm to the iPhone and iPod touch because it’s a game so well suited for mobile play,” said Andrew Stein, director of mobile business development at PopCap Games. “You can play Bookworm in short bursts of a few minutes whenever and wherever you want, but it also offers great challenge for marathon word-builders with infinite replayability. What’s more, Bookworm, with its great new features like shake to scramble, is especially appealing given how effectively it takes advantage of the iPhone and iPod touch hardware to make gameplay faster and more intuitive than ever before.”

In Bookworm, players build words from contiguous letter tiles on a grid. Longer and more difficult words score more points and produce a variety of “gem tiles” that offer additional bonuses when used (and mega-bonuses when multiple gem tiles are used in a single word). Burning tiles sear through normal tiles, reaching the bottom of the grid quickly; they must be used before they reach the bottom, or the game ends.

Exclusive features in the iPhone and iPod touch version include:

• Shake to scramble letters: Simply shake your iPhone or iPod touch to re-scramble the letters.
• All new bonus bookshelf: Discover books filled with bonus words and try to complete the collection.
• Track your progress: Just turn your phone sideways for a quick, detailed view of your word history and bonus bookshelf status.
• A word collectors dream: Build your stats and show off all the best words you’ve spelled!
Classic features in the iPhone and iPod touch version include:

• Classic and Action game modes with all the gameplay of the award-winning PC version.
• Vocabulary of over 170,000 words based on the definitive English-language authority, the Oxford English Dictionary.
• Tracking of all-time highest scoring as well as longest words, enables players to compare their personal bests to friends’ all-time best words and scores.
• Unlimited levels to keep you rising up the ranks in the Hall of Fame.

Originally launched for Web and PC play in 2003, and the recipient of numerous accolades, including “Puzzle Game of the Year” and “Editor’s Choice” from top editorial critics, Bookworm has been a resounding success on traditional cell phones as well as smart phones such as Windows Mobile and BlackBerry devices since its first mobile debut in 2007. Bookworm marks PopCap’s second iPhone and iPod touch offering; Bejeweled 2 for iPhone and iPod touch has been among the top-selling games since its launch in mid-2008. Additional iPhone and iPod touch adaptations of PopCap’s casual games are planned for later this year and beyond.

About PopCap

Hearts of Iron 3 PC video game beta

“We at Paradox were stunned by the response we got for the Beta testing, with over 10,000 people registering an interest in contributing. It made it one of the hardest selection process for Betas we have ever had, as there were just so many well qualified candidates to chose from. “ says Johan Andersson, Lead Developer on Hearts of Iron III.

Hearts of Iron III has now in the Beta stage of development. These last months has seen the team stabilizing the foundations of the AI, tightening up the rules and mechanics of the game, along with implementing brand new artwork and interface features.

With the Beta crew now in place the testing has already started and Hearts of Iron III is scheduled for release during the latter half of 2009.

“We have a keen an enthusiastic beta team in place who are already working hard to do their bit to make Hearts of Iron 3 the best game it can be.” Says Chris King, game designer for Hearts of Iron 3.

The third instalment in the critically acclaimed World War II strategy series, Hearts of Iron III will feature a plethora of brand new features to satisfy veteran and novice players alike, including a huge game map with more than 14,000 land and sea provinces.

At GDC, Johan Andersson, the Producer, will be on hand to demonstrate every aspect of the game. Hearts of Iron III is scheduled for release in Q3.

Wonder Pets! Save The Animals video game on Nintendo DS!

Wonder Pets! Save The Animals is now available in shops and online stores across the UK.

A perfect companion to the international hit pre-school TV show from Nickelodeon, fans of the series can join Linny The Guinea Pig, Turtle Tuck and Ming-Ming Duckling on their latest adventures, learning along the way - and having a whole lot of fun while they do it!

Designed specifically for pre-school children, Wonder Pets! teaches an appreciation of teamwork and promotes exploration of language through its unique operatic script. What’s gonna work? Team work!

Wonder Pets! Save The Animals is available for Nintendo DS from all good videogame stockists, RRP £19.99.

Classic TurboGrafx-16 Strategy Game Returns to Digital Download Platforms with Updated Features and Gameplay

Ten-hut! Military Madness, the classic turn-based strategy game published by Hudson Entertainment, the North and South American publishing arm of HUDSON SOFT, is coming to Xbox LIVE Arcade for the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, PlayStation Network, and WiiWare. This new version of the strategic combat simulation game includes an all-new graphical barrage, a regiment of new units, online co-op and vs. multiplayer and a platoon of other new features. Due to be ready for deployment this summer, Military Madness has been rated T for Teen by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB).

“Since its original release on TurboGrafx-16 in 1989, Military Madness has stood the test of time as one of the longest-lived turn-based strategy games in history,” said Sabine Duvall, Vice President of Product Development at Hudson Entertainment. “The new Military Madness will give fans of the original a modern version of this classic strategy game, while gamers new to the series will get to enjoy being armchair generals for the first time.”

With new features such as the commander unit, four person online multiplayer gaming and a 3D view of the battlefield, Miltary Madness has been modernized to meet the needs of today’s gamer without straying from the strategic elements that earned the original version awards for the “Best Military Strategy Game” and “Best War Game” within a year of its release. For those who want to know who is the “best of the best”, detailed stat-tracking leaderboards can be reviewed online.

For more information on this title and more, please visit Hudson Entertainment at www.hudsonent.com

About Hudson Entertainment, Inc.
Hudson Entertainment is the North and South American publishing arm of Hudson Soft, an international provider of games and entertainment content founded in 1973. Hudson Entertainment focuses on four key businesses: console retail games, digital download content, mobile games, and music. Hudson introduced best-selling videogame franchises including Bomberman, Bonk, Military Madness and Deca Sports. Hudson's mobile division is a leading supplier of games and personalized content. Through numerous partnerships with record labels, Hudson has become a leading provider of digital music and video content.

Free-to-Play games is offering brand new contents to the DOMO fans on March 25th

Dungeon Boss “Tricky Tortoise” is waiting for fierce warriors in Neptune’s Temple. Entering the temple to kill the boss will unlock level 65!

The dungeon is crowded with monsters dropping precious chests that contain fabulous items. Additional rewards are also waiting for the bravest: upgrade books, weapons, armors and diamonds!

Players will also be able to buy brand new items and goodie bags in the in-game item shop:

•

Little Fairy goodie bag for girls and Peter Pan goodie bag for boys: players will have the chance to get theme costumes, headgears or wings. These goodie bags will be available until April 8th
• Small HP Necklace: a special aid item which has the effect of auto-recover HP when HP is below 50%
• Small MP Pendant: this item auto-recovers the MP of a character when MP is below 50%

The necklace and pendant are very useful when fighting without the help of healers or when lacking pills in the backpack. But players will have to be quick to get one of them, because these items will be available in the in-game shop only until April 8th!

The new update will be available to players after the weekly Wednesday maintenance window on March 25th

DOMO is a Free-to-Play social MMORPG based on ancient Chinese mythology. Join with thousands of other gamers in an amazing anime-inspired world where you can socialize, form friendships, craft and master a variety of jobs, all within the underlying quest of trying to solve the riddles of the ancient myth of the Kunlun Mirror.

To download and play DOMO visit the game’s official website through www.gametribe.com.

Need for Speed SHIFT taking racing to the next level - out September in Europe

Electronic Arts announce that Need for Speed SHIFT, the all-new authentic racing game in the Need for Speed series, will hit stores in the UK on September 18, 2009. Need for Speed SHIFT brings a true driver’s experience to some of the world’s most iconic racing tracks, including the storied Brand’s Hatch in the UK.

The game also features the largest roster of high-performance cars in Need for Speed history including race cars such as the Pagani Zonda, Porsche 911 GT2 and Lotus Elise.

“With Need for Speed SHIFT, we set out to create a racing game that pushes the genre and delivers something never before seen in a Need for Speed title,” said Patrick Soderlund, Senior Vice President at EA Games Europe. “By focusing on the driver’s experience through the first-person view, we are able to capture the high-speed intensity and gripping emotions of racing.”

Players are thrust into the loud, intense, and athletic experience of racing a car from the driver’s perspective through the combination of perception based G-forces, the hyper reality of the cockpit view, and the all-new brutally disorienting crash dynamic. Need for Speed SHIFT features an accurate, accessible physics-based driving model that allows you to feel every impact, every change of track surface and every last bit of grip as you push yourself to the edge.



Need for Speed SHIFT is being developed by Slightly Mad Studios in collaboration with Black Box and Patrick Soderlund. Slightly Mad Studios includes developers and designers that worked on the critically acclaimed games GT Legends and GTR 2. The PSP version is being developed by EA’s Bright Light studio.

Need for Speed SHIFT will be released on PLAYSTATION 3 computer entertainment system, Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system, PC and PSP (PlayStation Portable) in fall 2009.

The Munchables video game - Gut Busting Fun Chomps its Way onto Nintendo Wii

NAMCO BANDAI Games Europe today announced The Munchables an entertaining romp into a colourful and delicious action adventure for Wii.

Exploring rich and vibrant environments, players will devour delectable enemies as they guide their quirky heroes in this zany alien munching mash-up filled with fun and addictive gameplay.

The Munchables will chomp its way into retailers in Europe and PAL regions this coming June 2009.

The Darkness awaits your return, in Dark Fall - Lost Souls A third Dark Fall game to complete the popular paranormal game series

A third Dark Fall game to complete the popular paranormal game series, also re-released by Darkling Room.

English game developers, Darkling Room, officially announce production of a third Dark Fall game, titled Dark Fall: Lost Souls. The horror/adventure is written, once again, by series creator, Jonathan Boakes, the writer of The Lost Crown: A Ghost-Hunting Adventure.

“It’s a guilty pleasure to drag gamers, kicking and screaming, back to the creepy train station and hotel, seen in the first Dark Fall game. It’s a desolate, derelict, dark location, in which disappearances and strange events are commonplace” says Jonathan, “This next instalment, known as Lost Souls, is going to offer up the creepiest atmosphere of the series... be warned, that old hotel knows your name, and is waiting for you this time round. Your room is prepared and ready.”

About Lost Souls: You have unfinished business with the dead. Return to the Train Station and Hotel at Dowerton for a second time; there is a new mystery to solve, and new horrors to face. The old buildings have deteriorated since your last perilous adventure, so you must watch your step, and never turn your back on the darkness...for something hides there; Something evil, unknowable and hungry.

• A brand new Dark Fall horror adventure.
• From the pen of Jonathan Boakes, author of The Lost Crown.
• Explore a derelict train station & hotel, abandoned since World War 2.
• A new game engine allows full exploration and movement.
• Physically interact with the eerie setting, to really ‘feel’ the place.
• Use light as your weapon and ally, to fight the darkness.
• Use Detective skills to solve an urban mystery.
• A hauntingly creepy stereo score that will chill and terrify.
• Explore the memories of the dead, in their own ‘nightmares’.
• Discover the true identity, and power behind, the Dark Fall itself.

The dead of Dowerton are the least of your problems, as you are stalked from one derelict room to the next, by the Dark Fall itself. It wants your soul; to feed upon, devour and torture. You must make the ghosts of the hotel your ally, through any means you can. For it is only through successful exorcisms that you will gain the strength to battle the darkness that lurks in that long forgotten, abandoned place.

Original Dark Fall Games re-released:

To coincide with the news of a third Dark Fall entering production, Darkling Room is excited to offer the original Dark Fall Games (Dark Fall and Lights Out) in brand new editions, Dark Fall: Classic Edition & Lights Out: Directors Cut. The new versions are available from the official website as both Direct Download and a new ‘Pins & Needles’ Limited Edition on DVD with a bonus CD Dark Fall Soundtrack, shipped free to anywhere in the world.

About the new versions:

The classic Edition is an updated version of the first Dark Fall game, which is optimised for Windows XP, and Windows Vista. The actual gameplay remains almost the same, with new sounds and a few technical tweaks to improve gameplay.

However, the new Directors Cut of ‘Lights Out’ has been massively updated to include new scenes, revamped puzzles, a new musical score and many ‘ghost’ events to send a chill up the gamers spine. You can now converse with the dead, who have many dark secrets to tell.

The games are available individually, or as a double pack for Digital Download and Physical Shipment (boxed copies direct from the author to your door!) with FREE world-wide packing and postage.

“It’s been great to introduce Darkling Room to self-publishing, which I found an enjoyable and successful enterprise back in 2001.” says Jonathan Boakes, series creator, “They were puzzled as to why anyone would want to do the whole process themselves, from making the games, packing them up and then posting to all corners of the globe. But, once the design process started they realised that self-publishing offers developers a chance to connect directly with the gamer, and design something truly unique and hand crafted”.

Also released are the new Dark Fall and Lights Out ‘Companion’ guides, which extend the gameplay, offering extra clues, and a complete walkthrough, A Guide to Conversations With The Dead and a list of where to see supernatural activity throughout both games is also included, as well as many extras.

“The ‘Companion’ guides are not just a ‘walkthrough’; I’ve spent time going through the games, noting Easter Eggs, secret areas and compiling background information about why and how the games came about” says Jonathan, “The Lights Out Companion, in particular, has whole chapters devoted to the creepy old Lighthouse, and the mystery which surrounds it. They are well worth getting hold of, via the website, is you want to get the most from your Dark Fall experience”.

Release Dates:

The Dark Fall Collection ‘Pins & Needles’ Edition, Dark Fall: Classic Edition and Lights Out: Directors Cut are available now, from the official website.

The Companion Guides are available now, from the official website.

Dark Fall: Lost Souls will be completed in the Summer, and available shortly afterwards.

Smash Cars on PlayStation Network - RC Cars Arcade Racing Game

RC Cars Arcade Racing Game Featuring Real-Time Physics and Next-Generation Graphics to Be Featured in SCEA Booth at GDC

TikGames and Creat Studios today announced Smash Cars as the next release under the partnership between the two companies to deliver next-generation console games for download on the PLAYSTATION 3 computer entertainment system.


A follow-up to the original Smash Cars, Creat’s 2003 ‘no rules’ RC (radio-controlled) racing game, the successful franchise returns to the PlayStation and will be available for download Q2 2009 on the PLAYSTATION 3 computer entertainment system, offered via Sony’s PlayStation Network.

Real-time physics, innovative stunts and next-generation graphics combine into a dynamic, tricked-out single and multiplayer RC car racing experience where players twist and turn, grind and gear up, performing aerial tricks and stunts while racking up trophies and points as they race to the finish, all in an unlikely location.

Set on a beautiful and tranquil Mediterranean island, the fast-moving, bumper car gameplay style transforms this calm and relaxing setting into a dynamically frenzied raceway. A high-speed mini car racing game with a distinct arcade flavor, gameplay is presented from the unique perspective of a small RC vehicle, setting out to conquer the big world. Players will enjoy realistic driving physics and suspension as the tiny vehicles interact with full-size people and other beach dwellers along their path to victory.

“Smash Cars’ unique style of gameplay and physics simulation offers gamers a kart-racing experience that is unmatched and unlike any other,” said Vladimir Starzhevsky, CEO of Creat Studios, Inc. “We are thrilled to be releasing such an innovative and exciting game on the PlayStation Network, and are honored that Sony has chosen to feature Smash Cars in their booth at GDC this year.”

To win the race, RC vehicles must achieve nitro-fueled rocket boosts for accelerated speed bursts by grabbing big air and pulling off gnarly tricks and jumps. Points are earned by performing the best jumps and aerial tricks, hitting dynamic obstacles, colliding with other cars, skidding and “drifting” along sharp turns, and finishing first.

Players can choose from the default Monster Truck style chassis, Buggy or Sports Car configurations, and a visit to the Workshop offers players the opportunity to personalize their vehicle by selecting paint color, glass styles, and decals. Additional body styles are unlocked as players advance.

“With the release of Smash Cars, we are pushing the design and gameplay boundaries beyond the casual games arena,” said Anatoly Tikhman, founder and CEO of TikGames. “With the popularity of the original Smash Cars, we are very excited to bring the franchise to a next-generation platform and take advantage of capabilities only found on the PLAYSTATION 3.”

Smash Cars will be featured in the Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. (SCEA) booth at the 2009 Game Developers Conference (GDC) in San Francisco, March 23-27.

Smash Cars will include PLAYSTATION Trophy support and its rating is still pending by the Entertainment Software Rating Board for this platform.

“PlayStation”, “PLAYSTATION” and “PS” Family logo are registered trademarks of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. The PLAYSTATION Network Logo is a service mark of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.

Sherlock Holmes v Jack the Ripper - The Hunt Continues soon on Xbox 360

Frogwares Studio and Focus Home Interactive are pleased to share with you new images from Sherlock Holmes vs. Jack the Ripper, the upcoming adventure/detective title for PC but also for the first time on Next Gen console. Indeed, Sherlock Holmes will also track down the atrocious serial killer on a Xbox 360 version specially adapted by the Parisian studio Spiders Games.

Sherlock Holmes vs. Jack the Ripper allows you to play as the greatest detective of all in the London of 1888. A series of particularly horrible murders creates a real psychosis throughout the country. Atrociously mutilated prostitutes' bodies are found by the police without them being able to find a serious lead. Sherlock Holmes starts looking for clues in the dark and sinister alleys of Whitechapel in order to follow the macabre trail of the one the press now calls Jack the Ripper. During an adventure full of twists, Sherlock Holmes will try to bring out the true identity and the motives of the one who hides behind this scary alias.

The Sherlock Holmes series is known as one of the best franchises in adventure games and is very popular with around 1.5 million copies sold worldwide. Now, Sherlock Holmes is back with a game that will give a new dimension to the series. Indeed, Sherlock Holmes vs. Jack the Ripper will offer players two different views that are accessible at any time: a third person view in the purest style used in point & click adventure games, as well as a first person view. The player will be free to play in one or the other modes or even combine them for greater immersion into this terrifying adventure. Another novelty: the player will also find an original crime scene reconstitution system that will allow him to test his theories during his progress in the investigation to follow the bloody trail of the terrifying serial killer.

Sherlock Holmes vs. Jack the Ripper will be released for DVD ROM PC in May of 2009.

Championship Manager exclusive sponsor of the Apprentice of the Year category at The Football League Awards

Championship Manager secures licensing agreement with The Football League

Championship Manager has agreed a deal with The Football League to be the exclusive sponsor of the Apprentice of the Year category at The Football League Awards. This annual gala event celebrates excellence on and off the pitch rewarding players, managers and staff.

The world famous football management simulation game has also signed a licensing agreement with The Football League for the next edition of Championship Manager. The agreement reinforces Championship Manager’s position as an accurate, authoritative and authentic management simulation.

The Award recognises the apprentice from each division who has shown the best on-field performance, disciplinary record and educational achievement over the season. Previously, the Apprentice Of The Year Award has recognised some of the greatest talent across The Football League. In an era of big money transfers, youth development is still the life-blood of football and with more than 8,500 players aged 8 – 18 the football league has fed a vast array of talent into professional football.

Roy Meredith, General Manager of Championship Manager, said: “We are very proud to be able to sponsor the Apprentice of the Year Award. Seeking out and developing top talent is critically important for all football clubs and that is certainly reflected in Championship Manager. The accolade will reward youth academy players that have performed particularly well in the past year, providing recognition at a key point in their developing career.”

John Nagle, Head of Communications for the Football League, said: “We are delighted that Eidos has come on board to support The Football League Awards which is now in its 4th year and is established within the football calendar.”

Mass Effect 2 from Bioware The Dark Second Chapter to the Epic Science-Fiction Trilogy - Coming Early 2010 for Windows PC and Xbox 360

Leading video game developer BioWare, a division of Electronic Arts, announced the development of Mass Effect 2, the highly anticipated sequel to the multi award-winning 2007 hit, Mass Effect.

The Mass Effect trilogy is a masterful science-fiction adventure set in a vast universe filled with dangerous alien life forms and mysterious uncharted planets. In this dark second chapter, Saren’s evil army of Geth soldiers has just been defeated, and humans, still struggling to make their mark on the galactic stage, are now faced with an even greater peril…

“We’re going to surpass the extraordinary gaming experience we brought our fans in Mass Effect by delivering intensified combat and expanded weapon options as well as increased depth of planet exploration, all while delivering a powerful, emotionally engaging story,” said Dr. Ray Muzyka, General Manager and CEO, BioWare and General Manager and Vice President, EA. “Mass Effect 2 is shaping up to be an unforgettable RPG-shooter experience, taking players on a non-stop roller-coaster ride filled with stunning plot twists and no-holds-barred

action.”



Mass Effect 2 is coming to PC and the Xbox 360 video game system in Early 2010.

Killing Floor - Unreal Tournament mod to become full game on Steam...

Popular young-persons' Unreal Tournament 2004 modification Killing Floor is to be beefed up into a full game and released on Steam, Tripwire Interactive has announced.

Killing Floor is a first-person co-op game in which up to six players defend themselves against an onslaught of monsters in non-linear London-based environments using a mixture of weapons.

Along with knives, fire-axes, shotguns, rifles and a flamethrower (there are more than 12 weapons in total), players can also try and weld doors closed to push the monsters along certain paths.

Read full post here on EuroGamer...

NASA name new video game Astronaut - Moon, Mars and Beyond...

After news that NASA are working with Information Place, Virtual Heroes and Project Whitecard on a new MMO video game they have announced the title... Astronaut - Moon, Mars and beyond.

NASA hope the game will spark an interest in space and the universe - we can only wait and see if this wish comes true.

The gamne is financed by individual investors and sponsors with NASA lending their expertise in development.

“‘Astronaut: Moon, Mars, and Beyond’ was selected because the three companies involved had a really ideal combination of qualities we were looking for,” Daniel Laughlin of NASA’s Learning Technologies Project Office said in a statement. “They have the right experience, they demonstrated their ability to engage middle school through higher education curricula, and they have extraordinary enthusiasm about working with NASA to make a fun game. If there’s one thing we’ve learned from more than 800 pages of public input, it’s that this game must be fun if it’s going to be of any use for education.”

"When they see that they can use these skills to build something – like a space shuttle or a greenhouse – then they understand why it’s important,” said Sonny Kirkley, CEO of Information In Place. “So, ultimately, teachers will find that a gaming environment makes it much easier to engage students in STEM subjects and provides context for the other things they are teaching.”

WWII online - Battleground Europe offers free 14 day PC trial of

Cornered Rat Software is offering a unique twist to their 14-day free trial of their massively multiplayer PC game, "WWII Online: Battleground Europe". For a limited time, trial players will have the chance to have their face added to an in-game character. The game is available for download and play at the official website, www.BattlegroundEurope.com.

Cornered Rat Software is inviting gamers to participate in a limited time 14-day free trial offer for their award-winning MMOG, WWIIOL: Battleground Europe. Anyone who creates a free trial account between March 20th and April 10th, 2009 will be entered into a draw in which three winners will have their own likeness added to the library of faces used for infantry characters seen by thousands of players. Information about how faces are added to in-game characters can be found at www.battlegroundeurope.com/faces. See the trial information page for more details at BattlegroundEurope.com.

About Battleground Europe:
Set in World War II Western Europe, "Battleground Europe" features more than 600 towns and cities and 29,000 buildings and a zone-less map covering 350,000 Km (Over 217,000 miles) of terrain where battles rage for days and campaigns for weeks.

Whether you want to be a British sharpshooter, French tank commander or a German fighter-pilot, "Battleground Europe" has an assignment waiting for you. With over 100 weapons and vehicles accurately modeled and utilizing military-grade physics, every soldier can make a measurable contribution in the battle for Western Europe!

Death of Spies - Moment of Truth with new gadgets, new weapons and new missions

Leading Eastern and Central European publisher 1C Company is pleased to announce the development of a sequel to the popular stealth-action Death to Spies titled Death to Spies: Moment of Truth.

The game's main character is Semion Strogov, Captain of the 4th department of the Soviet counterintelligence service called SMERSH.
SMERSH literally means in Russian Death to Spies, which was the name for a set of counterintelligence departments in the Soviet Army formed during World War II. Strogov is back from his previous missions and must now participate in a series of even more complicated and exciting military operations under the code name Death to Spies: Moment of Truth.

The hero possesses all the skills required to accomplish especially dangerous missions including, getting information about the disposition of hostile military and civil units, assassination of enemy agents and representatives of Wehrmacht’s high-ranking officers and espionage.

By the order of his supreme commander Strogov, who passed through a serious retraining, will have to accomplish various top secret missions. His task is to capture spies, saboteurs and gather information about their actions using unique technologies and devices.

Death to Spies: Moment of Truth is scheduled for a Q3 2009 release.

SplitFish Ships FragFX V2 PlayStation 3 Controllers

Form Meets Function in Universal Controller for the PlayStation 3

SplitFish Gameware, Inc. ("SplitFish") is pleased to announce the release of the new FragFX V2 controller for the Sony PlayStation 3. This long awaited advanced gaming accessory represents the next significant industry advancement for PS3 gamers. The FragFX V2 truly delivers on giving the first-person shooter (FPS) player the gaming precision, speed and control previously only available to PC gamers.

Over the past year, SplitFish has painstakingly re-engineered and turbocharged the key performance features of the FragFX V2 system to ensure maximum playability and performance for PS3 gamers of all levels. Based on carefully analyzing the feedback received from V1 users, and pro gamers, the new V2 now includes significant improvements to the following components: optical mouse, frag switch, mouse & motion sensitivity, mouse buttons, and d-pad. In addition, improved game support will ensure that FragFX V2 users continue to dominate on today's genre of games (enhanced response in Call of Duty: World at War, Killzone 2 and Resistance 2) as well as future front line releases. In the event firmware upgrades are needed, they will be provided for free and instantaneously by simply downloading them directly from www.splitfish.com.

The FragFx V2 also serves as a fully optimized mouse for the browsing and navigation of the PlayStation HOME virtual world and the PlayStation Network browser.

"When it comes to fast-paced gaming where precision counts, gamers demand the most from their controllers and that is where the FragFX V2 comes into play. We decided to release a FragFx V2 to incorporate some of the great suggestions made by our hard core customers and pro gamers - the resulting hardware and firmware modifications, make the V2 an even more versatile and better quality PS3, FPS controller." said SplitFish president Werner Demetz.

Key features of the FragFX V2 controller include:

• Larger mousepad for a wider range of motion for mouse tracking and aiming
• Varied mouse button surface textures to distinguish between buttons and provide better grip and less slip
• Unique pressure sensitive Frag button that allows gamers to drastically increase their accuracy-perfect for long-range sniping.
• Macro mouse sensitivity control located on the FragChuck provides gamers with a truly unique control setup.
• Improved directional padRapid-fire can be mapped to a variety of mouse buttons and can be turned on and off on the fly from in-game.
• FragChuck has full range of adjustable 6-Axis motion control.
• Unique motion port feature that allows gamers to map 6-Axis motions-specific functions to a variety of buttons.

The FragFX V2 is now shipping in North America and is available from the following major retailers: www.gogamer.com, www.bestbuy.com, www.amazon.com, www.microcenter.com and www.newegg.com. The SplitFish FragFX2 V2 has an MSRP of $79.99.