The Punisher No Mercy - death and Destruction comes to PlayStation Network

ZEN Studios Delivers Marvel Comics' Iconic Urban Vigilante on PlayStation Network Starting July 2, 2009

The Punisher is set to unleash his vengeance on PlayStation Network! ZEN Studios announced today that The Punisher: No Mercy, inspired by Marvel Comics’ rich Punisher comic book history, is confirmed to be released on July 2, 2009 and will be available exclusively through PlayStation Store for $9.99.

“Our team has been working long hours to deliver a first-person shooter experience that will live up to the Punisher name,” said Zsolt Kigyossy, managing director for ZEN Studios. “With awesome characters, a customizable system, and fast-paced multiplayer action, No Mercy is breaking ground in the digital space. For comic and shooter fans alike, this is a must-have game for the summer.”

Powered by Unreal Engine 3, The Punisher: No Mercy was designed with fast-paced online multiplayer FPS action in mind. The game allows players to choose from an eclectic mix of Punisher allies and villains. Battle arenas span from shipyards rife with contraband to the “birthplace” of the Punisher’s archenemy, Jigsaw, and up to eight players can blast away at each other in a variety of solo and team-based missions.

In addition to exceptional online play, The Punisher: No Mercy also offers a single-player story mode featuring exclusive artwork from acclaimed Marvel artist Mike Deodato.

Developed by ZEN Studios, The Punisher: No Mercy is rated “M” by the ESRB for a true Punisher experience.

Fernando Torres stars in Pro Evolution Soccer 2010 - PES 2010 screenshot

Konami Digital Entertainment GmbH has announced that its forthcoming PES 2010 title will benefit from the most exhaustive raft of new features in the series’ history, with every aspect of the game benefiting from key improvements. Major gameplay additions will make PES 2010 the most realistic football simulation available.

PES 2010 is scheduled for release on PLAYSTATION 3, Xbox 360, PC-DVD, PSP (PLAYSTATION Portable), PlayStation 2 and mobile phones in the Autumn, and follows months of analysis and feedback monitoring to enhance the game in every area. PES Productions, Konami’s Tokyo-based development team, has collated feedback on the series’ strengths and weaknesses via fan forums, both ardent and casual PES players and press comment, and has incorporated a wide range of requests in the new game. The result will be the most challenging, realistic and satisfying PES to date.

Konami has spent the last year expanding the development team’s numbers, and created a number of dedicated departments, each striving to further improving their respective parts of the game both in the short and long terms. Key additions for PES 2010 include:

• Gameplay: PES 2010 focuses on enhancing the excitement of matches between players, making for a truly challenging experience that will constantly test the player. Intuitive zonal defending will cover spaces and players need to look constantly for new ways to attack. PES 2010 focuses on being a real football simulation, as it requires both strategic play and quick reactions, as in real life. In addition to key out-field elements, goalkeepers are more versatile and with abilities matching those of modern shot-stoppers. The game’s referees have also been reworked, with smarter AI elements allowing them to make more balanced calls during matches.

• Improved Visuals: PES 2010 has undergone a major visual revamp, with its celebrated player likenesses and animations now even closer to those of real-life players– including live player expressions to be depicted with an improved lighting system which differentiates between various conditions! Stadium detail is also massively improved, with the grass and other in-stadium elements finely depicted.

• All-new animation and moves: Animations now dovetail into each other seamlessly, with dribbling and shots on goals worked into dribbling animations. More individual skills are also on show, including new flicks and tricks that have a definite showing on the way a game flows. Several elements have been completely reworked, with the dribbling, turning and kicking animations greatly enhanced, while there is a noticeable change in pace when a player passes a ball from a standing position than from within a run.

• Match-Day Atmosphere: Crowd reactions to the on-field action are now more varied, with all new chants and cheers. The subtle difference between Home and Away matches will be reproduced, and the crowd will react spontaneously to specific situations in a game, showing their disdain or pleasure as fouls are committed and goals scored. Likewise, the commentary has been altered to offer a fresher, more concise overview of the game.

• Enhanced Master League: Master League has been thoroughly renewed with the enhancement of managerial aspects, which enables users to enjoy managing a team for a longer career lifespan. Seen by many as a key contributor to the series’ success, the Master League elements in PES 2010 have been bolstered by far-ranging and vital new additions, dedicated to enriching the mode. Further details will be announced shortly.

• AI: The Tokyo team has worked to improve the AI of the game, with Teamvision 2.0 implemented. Midfielders and defenders now work together to cover open space and close down attacks, meaning that cover can be provided for lower-ranked defenders. This also has the additional effect of removing soft goals, thus returning PES 2010 to its simulation roots. In terms of attacking, players can also now move several players once, sending them into different areas, opening up more goal-scoring possibilities than ever before. As such, PES 2010 necessitates a new level of control from the player. Strategic thinking is as important as quick passing, but the new system greatly opens the way the player oversees control of the team. In free kick scenarios, for instance, players can now instigate the runs of the players awaiting the ball in the penalty area.

• Individual Play Characteristics: In previous PES games, the team formation has determined the movements of the players. PES 2010 introduces a new system wherein the individual attacking and defending nature of the players is integral to the way they play. Each player enjoys unique AI tied into their best abilities, and is reflected in the actions of their team mates– i.e. if a player who is known to be a good crosser of the ball is in possession, more players will flood the penalty area to receive it. Similarly, if a player is known to be good with close control, defenders will work to cover their stronger side, while lone strikers will be automatically supported by midfielders on receipt of the ball.

• Strategy Use: A new power gauge system allows users to balance their strategy in a quick, but wide-ranging way before a match. Every element– pass frequency, movement, the line of defence, width of play, or the position of the front line– can be altered to match those of a favoured club: Juventus Turin are a dangerous side on the counter-attack, for instance, while FC Barcelona use width in their attack. These formulations can be altered at any point, too, with Home and Away matches forcing different circumstances on the user, as does the rigours of a Master League season.

• Penalties: An all-new system has been implemented, offering greater control, placing and accuracy.

• Enhanced Online: A new dedicated section of the Tokyo team is committed to improving the online side of PES 2010. More downloadable content is also planned. Konami has supported PES 2009 with the release of new licensed teams, transfer updates, etc, and this support will grow for PES 2010. Team and content updates are planned throughout the game’s lifespan. These will make the game even more bespoke to the player’s match day needs.

Konami has strengthend its relationship with UEFA and can announce it has secured the exclusive video game rights for the Europa League Licence (formerly known as the UEFA Cup). In addition Konami will be enhancing and developing the use of the UEFA Champions League within PES 2010 to make even better use of the best club football competition in the world.
Further details of these new features will be released in the coming months. Konami has also confirmed that Lionel Messi will also be a key endorsement player for the new game, and will feature in the promotion and development of the game later this year.

“We have been monitoring feedback and comments on the progression of the PES series for some time now, and PES 2010 will see us implementing a great deal of the ideas players have been requesting,” commented Naoya Hatsumi, Producer for PES Productions at Konami Digital Entertainment Japan.“We aim to make PES 2010 a more user-friendly, immediate experience that places the emphasis on getting straight into the gameplay for which the series is famed. PES 2010 will look better, will play better, and will recreate real football as closely as the current hardware will allow.”
“The preparations for PES 2010 have been in place for some time now, with the reorganization and increase of the Tokyo-based studio allowing expert teams to concentrate on their particular area,” commented Jon Murphy, PES European Team Leader.“We are now in a better position to implement the greatest raft of changes and improvements to the series we have seen, and thank the PES community for their input.”

PES 2010 will be released for PLAYSTATION 3, Xbox 360, PC-DVD, PSP (PLAYSTATION PORTABLE), PlayStation 2 and mobile phones in the autumn.

Aion MMO video game beta test dates in July - with videos

It’s time to get ready to spread your wings and take flight in this year’s biggest massively multiplayer online game (MMO) release, Aion. NCsoft unveiled the official release date for Aion, the highly anticipated game where players take on a key role in a war between divine beings that will determine the fate of the world . Aion launches in Europe on September 25, 2009.

Unlike any MMO before it, Aion is a uniquely crafted online experience where flight offers much more than just a way to explore the landscape - it is a strategic and integral part of combat, quests, and exploration.



Players will dive into battle and plunge through thousands of unique, story-driven quests, all while trying to save a world literally shattered in half from centuries of brutal conflict. Using one of the most flexible and in-depth character customization systems ever featured in an MMO, players will be able to create genuinely distinct characters and explore a visually stunning world of ethereal beauty brimming with otherworldly inhabitants, mysterious enemies, and ancient secrets.



In addition to an international retail presence , Aion will be available as a digital download at the NCsoft Store . Also, players should not forget to take advantage of the special preorder promotion for Aion at participating retailers. As part of the Aion preorder promotion, players will receive access to the Aion Closed Beta events. Those dates are as follows:



Aion Closed Beta Dates

Friday, 3rd July to Monday, 6th July
Friday, 17th July to Monday, 20th July
Friday, 31st July to Monday, 3rd August
Friday, 14th August to Monday, 17th August

Draft Pick Blake Griffin is box Athlete of EA SPORTS NCAA Basketball 10

Electronic Arts announce that Blake Griffin, former Oklahoma Sooner and the projected top pick in the 2009 NBA Draft, will be the new face of EA SPORTS NCAA Basketball 10. Griffin has an explosive presence, exciting college stadiums with massive dunks, huge blocks, and aggressive rebounds, and was a natural choice to represent the college game as cover athlete for NCAA Basketball 10.

Griffin is the consensus national Player of the Year, winning the Big 12, Associated Press, Naismith, Sporting News, and John Wooden Player of the Year awards, and led his team to an Elite Eight appearance in the 2009 March Madness Tournament, where they lost to eventual champions, UNC. The 2009 NBA Draft is presented by EA SPORTS.

“Seeing myself on the cover of NCAA Basketball 10 is such a great tribute to my time at Oklahoma,” said Griffin. “I loved playing in front of passionate fans and competing against some of the best schools in the country. Now I am looking forward to competing at the next level against the best players in the world.”

NCAA Basketball 10 brings the emotion, intensity, and spirit of college basketball by capturing every detail in the stadium, from cheerleaders and mascots to wild crowds and real NCAA Basketball announcers. NCAA Basketball 10 builds on a new game engine introduced last year, refining and improving core gameplay functions, and adding more depth to the popular ‘styles of play’ and ‘set your tempo’ features, making NCAA Basketball 10 a strategic and entirely unique basketball gameplay experience.

NCAA Basketball 10, which is licensed by The Collegiate Licensing Company, is currently in development under the EA SPORTS brand by EA Canada in Vancouver, B.C., and will be available in North America this holiday season. The game will be available for the PLAYSTATION 3 computer entertainment system, and Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft. The game is not yet rated by the ESRB.

EA SPORTS is the leading interactive sports software brand in the world, with top-selling titles and franchises including Madden NFL Football, FIFA Soccer, NHL hockey, NBA LIVE basketball, NCAA Football and Tiger Woods

Handmark and Sandlot Games Release Popular Trading Adventure 'Tradewinds 2' on Apple App Store

Handmark and Sandlot Games announce the release of Tradewinds 2, part of Sandlot Games' popular trading adventure franchise, on the Apple App Store.

Based on the acclaimed PC game by Sandlot Games, Tradewinds 2 is a highly immersive adventure for iPhone and iPod touch where players navigate the pirate-infested waters of the Caribbean. Be a master commander, defeating pirates and plundering their vast hordes of booty, or, play it safe by trading exotic island goods, gradually amassing untold wealth, power and influence.

"Once again Handmark has done an excellent job bringing another Sandlot Game to millions of iPhone and iPod touch users," said Daniel Bernstein, CEO Sandlot Games. "We're very proud of Tradewinds 2 for the Apple App Store and we believe that users worldwide will once again get swept away in the unique gameplay and story that unites the Tradewinds series."

Gamers who enjoy trading and strategy games will love Tradewinds 2. Players can choose one of 5 characters to play as, or create their own using the 'Character Generator'; explore 20 different ports each with different buildings and characteristics; and enjoy over 100 hours of gameplay across Story and Free Trade modes. Players new to this genre will gain an introduction via the full tutorial in Tradewinds 2.

"Following the success of Glyph and Westward, we're excited to work with Sandlot Games to bring Tradewinds 2 to the iPhone and iPod touch," said Cassidy Lackey, vice president of Handmark Studios. "The venerated franchise has a loyal online offering, and this immersive version reinforces our intention to bring high quality, value-packed games to the Apple App Store."

Tradewinds 2 is available now for $4.99 from Apple's App Store on iPhone and iPod touch or at http://www.itunes.com/appstore/. For more information about Tradewinds 2, along with screenshots and a video demo, please visit: http://www.astraware.com/iphone/tradewinds2.

Grizzleheim Opens in Wizard101 for PC!

KingsIsle announce the launch of a major new world expansion on the test servers of online virtual world Wizard101 (www.wizard101.com). Grizzleheim is a lush new environment based on Norse mythology that will further challenge players and introduce them to three new tribal races: Viking Bears, Wolves, and Ravens. The expansion also introduces item crafting, a bazaar, and several community features significantly increasing opportunities for adventuring, socializing and creativity for players of the massively popular online game.

"Wizards will have a great time exploring the woods and mountains in Grizzleheim," said Wizard101 Lead Designer James Nance. "It'll be accessible to lower level players as well, not just those who have completed Dragonspyre, and the new races will introduce some compelling elements to the storyline."

The world of Grizzleheim features an airy, outdoors landscape of snowy mountains, glacial ridges, and towering trees. Wizards will be able to explore several new adventure areas with rich environments. Wizards will first meet and learn about the Viking Bears of Grizzleheim - great traders with the ability to travel the worlds of the Spiral in their longboats. As Wizards become powerful and spend more time in Grizzleheim, they will uncover a great mystery about the world.

Grizzleheim also features new opponents for players to battle, such as wood spirits, barbarian boar mercenaries, and other mysterious creatures. Currently live on the test servers, KingsIsle expects to open the new expansion to all players in early July.

Popular with families who like to play together or connect over distance, Wizard101 was designed with the safety of young players in mind. It is rated E10+ by the ESRB. Anybody with a Windows based PC can play the Free-to-Play areas of the game for as long as they like. Advanced content is available by subscription or microtransaction. Wizard101 gift cards can now be found at more than 13,000 retail outlets nationwide. For details, visit https://www.wizard101.com/site/home2/wizard101/page_8ad6a404207fb2fd0120a1589af60841.

Machinarium: Daedalic to Publish in German-speaking Territories

We are the robots: Daedalic Entertainment will publish Machinarium from Czech developer Amanita Design in Germany, Austria and Switzerland. The point & click adventure game sees player explore a strange, metallic city populated by robots.

"Machinarium is an exceptional game and a perfect fit for our line-up. We are very happy to be able to bring it to retailers in the German-speaking territories. Machinarium has everything you want from a great adventure games: fun puzzles, outstanding animation, quirky humour and a unique, lovingly crafted, game world," said Carsten Fichtelmann, Managing Director of Daedalic Entertainment.

The game's protagonist is a little robot who has been unjustly expelled to the scrap yard behind the city. Players must guide the little robot back into town to rescue his robot-girlfriend and stop the bad guys from the 'Black Cap Brotherhood' before they can bomb the central tower that houses the city's ruler.

Czech developers Amanita Design received worldwide acclaim for their Flash masterpieces Samorost 1 and 2 and have already been awarded the 2009 Independent Games Festival Award for Excellence in Visual Art for Machinarium. The one-of-a-kind adventure game features hand-drawn backgrounds filled with odd details and inventive puzzles. Thousands of animations bring life to every action of the charming characters and the atmospheric music draws the player in with unusual, mechanical sounds.

Mega Man Star Force 3 demo now live on the Nintendo Channel!

Attention Mega Man fans:
Head on over to the Nintendo Channel now and download the DS demo (available for a limited time).

Mega Man Star Force 3 ships next week!

Cities XL patch build 185 out now full fix list here...

Over the past few days, you have been very active in sending us tickets about various bugs in Cities XL. We thank you for your feedback and we have now been able to determine and fix a certain number of these issues already (others are still being worked on.)

Please find below a list of the bugfixes and additions coming with Patch Build 185, which is available now:

Install/Uninstall
- Microsoft VC Redistributable Setup will now be automatically installed for newcomers.
-The uninstaller now closes Cities XL if it is still running.

Interface
-The community managers are now identified in the chat through an "MC" prefix and all their messages appear in green.
-The backspace button now works two ways in the chat:
It correctly deletes the text written in your chatbox when you are talking on a channel.
When someone whispers to you, you can now click on your chatbox, press Backspace and your answer will be whispered back to them.
- When deleting a big city, the empty slot now returns to a normal-sized white slot on the planet.
- You can now press " Enter " to open chat.
- Cities XL news will now be updated automatically on the Planet Interface.

Tutorial
We have added the following tutorials to Cities XL:
-Tutorial 4: Citizens & satisfaction.
-Tutorial 5: Industries & satisfaction.
-Tutorial 6: Industries & resources.

Buildings & additional content
-We have added billboards along some roads.
-New fillers for office areas.
-The game will now give you written guidance when trying to place interchanges.

Planets
- We have added two new French & German speaking planets: Ariel(GER) and Proteus(FR). Planets can now be selected by language (EN/FR/GER).
This brings the total to 5 planets:
-Oberon (EN): 3000 slots
-Galatea (EN): 3000 slots
-Hyperion (EN): 3000 slots
-Proteus (FR): 5000 slots
-Ariel (DE): 5000 slots

+Many ingame text corrections/modifications…

To retrieve Patch Build 185 you just need to launch Cities XL as usual and follow the instructions given to you as you log in.

Spore Galactic Adventures video game expansion arrives worldwide

The Spore universe is expanding with infinite adventures! Maxis announce that Spore Galactic Adventures, the expansion to the critically-acclaimed game Spore, is now available at North American retailers and will hit store shelves internationally on June 25th. Designed to expand the Spore universe, Spore Galactic Adventures delivers hilarious new adventures to players who aspire to become their own space captain, beam down to strange new planets, create customized adventures, and take their favorite Spore creature from zero to galactic hero!

“Spore Galactic Adventures enhances the Spore experience by blasting players off into space, turning ordinary creatures into legendary Space Captains,” stated Lucy Bradshaw, VP and General Manager at Maxis. “For the first time, players can beam their creatures down to planets to experience all-new adventures or create custom-made missions of their own and share them with the world. With more than 105 million creations available in the Sporepedia, the Spore library of user-generated content for use in players’ missions, the only limit is their imaginations!”

Expanding on the original Spore game, Spore Galactic Adventures adds variety and fun by allowing players to get out of their spaceship and explore colorful, wacky new planets. Players will turn their creatures into space captains, battle epic monsters in intergalactic arenas and fight intense planet-side races. In each mission, players earn experience to rank up their captain and earn game-changing items such as the Plasma Pulser and Swarm Magnet. In the box, the game includes 16 off-the-wall missions as well as an “Adventure Creator” tool that players can use to design their own missions. These personally-created missions can be shared with friends online and can be classed in leader boards that track accomplishments, rank and medals earned.

In addition to the adventures in the box, players can download ten all-new adventures created by the writers of the outrageously funny, pop-culture parody TV show, Robot Chicken. Available for free to all Spore Galactic Adventures owners, the Robot Chicken adventures take players through such wacky quests as a mission to obtain a library card by finding a ruler-yielding librarian her true love, and an adventure to save a princess by battling demonic snowmen in a snowglobe. Conceptualized by Robot Chicken co-creators Seth Green and Matt Senreich, the Robot Chicken Adventures were imagined by the show’s writing team including Matt Beans, Doug Goldstein, Mike Fasolo, Breckin Meyer, Dan Milano, Tom Root, Kevin Shinick, Hugh Sterbakov and Zeb Wells. With such a unique cast of imaginative characters, players can expect to experience missions with exploding poo, angry yetis, and banana wars.

To support Spore’s dedicated fan community, www.spore.com will feature a bevy of fun content including additional downloadable adventures, contests and news.

Available for PC and MAC for $29.99, Spore Galactic Adventures is rated E10+ by the ESRB. The Robot Chicken adventures are rated TEEN by the ESRB. As an expansion pack, Spore Galactic Adventures requires the original Spore game to play.

Tropico 3 video game from PC to Xbox 360

Kalypso Media have announced the release of Tropico 3 for the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft.

In what was previously a PC exclusive title this release will see Kalypso Media enter the next-generation console market where they will be concentrating exclusively on Microsoft platforms.

Stefan Marcinek, Global Managing Director Kalypso Media Group said “The Tropico 3 release on the Xbox 360 is a first for Kalypso and marks the beginning of an exciting entry into the console market. Throughout 2010 Kalypso Media have plans to release four titles in tandem on both the Xbox 360 and PC. Through this we will be able to demonstrate our strong PC Line up with new multiplatform games and this gives us some great opportunities for the year ahead.”

The Xbox 360 release of Tropico 3 will be developed by Haemimont Games in Bulgaria who are also responsible for the development of the PC version for Kalypso Media.

Tropico 3 will be released on Xbox 360 and PC this September.

Monster Hunter Freedom Unite PSP video game arrives this Friday

Capcom is pleased to confirm that Monster Hunter Freedom Unite for PSP (PlayStation Portable) will be available to buy at retail across PAL territories from this Friday June 26th. European gamers will also be able to purchase and download the complete version of the game from the PlayStation Store at the same time.

Capcom will continue to support the release of Japan’s most successful PSP title in Europe with a series of post launch initiatives. Monster Hunter gamers will be able to enjoy free downloadable content for the title on an on-going basis. Regular updates featuring new challenging quests and bonus items will be available shortly after launch meaning fans will be able to experience new journeys through the world of Monster Hunter.

Gamers are never alone in the world of Monster Hunter and to unite players Capcom has launched the Encyclopedia Gigantica. Preparing players for the journey ahead, the Encyclopedia is a great online source to meet like-minded hunters and share all your strategies and tips on how to successfully hunt down some of the most ferocious beasts that ever lived. Experienced hunters can aid fellow gamers on their quests by sharing their knowledge about the monsters they will encounter and guide them through the hundreds of quests awaiting them.





To bring hunters together to experience the social gaming phenomenon that is taking Japan by storm Capcom will open a dedicated Monster Hunter Gathering Hall in central London on July 3rd. Players are invited to arm themselves with their PSP and copy of the game to unite with fellow hunters and embark on an epic multiplayer gaming experience. Visitors to this unique gaming centre will be able to download exclusive content and quests and regular tutorial nights will be held at the venue for rookie hunters to learn all about the secrets of the hunt.

Monster Hunter Freedom Unite is the latest instalment in the epic Monster Hunter series, delivering over 500 hours of gameplay spanning some 400 missions. Using the Ad-Hoc connection players can adventure with up to three friends for a savaging multiplayer hunting party. From devising strategies to executing the attack, players will need to work together in order to hunt down the ferocious beasts and progress through the wide range of quests on offer.

Play Atlantica Online this Summer; Drive Away in a New Sports Car!

NDOORS Interactive announce details of a Mega-Event for their hit MMORPG Atlantica Online. Starting today, the contest, ‘Unlock Your Way to Atlantica’, will reward one lucky player with a brand-new 2010 Scion tC and other lucky players with various real world prizes, totaling over $30,000 in giveaways! To enter, players must create a free Atlantica account, or use an existing character, and spend time playing the 100% free-to-play game. Users will play the game to earn keys that can then be redeemed for valuable in-game items. Players who are eligible will be entered in a raffle drawing for real-world prizes including game consoles, LCD monitors, computers, high-end graphics cards and a brand-new Scion tC sports coupe. Certain restrictions apply.

Once ‘Unlock Your Way to Atlantica’ kicks off, players will immediately be able to start earning keys. Players will earn one key for spending one hour of time playing Atlantica Online. Players can earn a maximum of one key per day. Once a key has been earned, it can be redeemed via the Atlantica website to unlock a treasure chest containing a random in-game prize item. Some of the in-game prize items will only be offered during this exclusive promotion.

• The Mega-Event has seven phases known as ‘milestones.’ Each milestone represents a chance to win real prizes.
• When all of the game’s players redeem a pre-determined number of keys, the milestone will be hit and a raffle drawing for real world prizes will take place.
• Players must redeem one key during each phase
• The server whose players redeem the most keys will receive a 200% experience boost
• Certain restrictions apply. Please visit the official website for details.

The event ends when the players hit the final milestone and redeem all 2,000,000 keys. There are a finite number of keys for each phase so it’s important for users to play early and play often to increase their chances of winning in-game prizes and to be eligible for the raffles. Check the Atlantica website for information on when milestones have been hit and when raffle drawings will take place.

The full prize list for the Mega-Event includes:

• 1 – Grand Prize: 2010 Scion tC sports coupe
• 5 – Alienware 750i*
• 5 – BFG Tech GeForce GTX 295
• 5 – Playstation 3 80GB
• 5 – XBOX 360 Pro
• 5 – Acer H233H bmid 23" LCD Monitor
• 5 – Nintendo DSi Systems

‘Unlock Your Way to Atlantica’ begins June 23rd. For more information, or to sign up and play, visit: www.playatlantica.com/ao

MMO Fury Heeds the Call of Solum in the Ys Online Beta Review Event

MMOFury has teamed up with Key to Play for a review event of the Beta for Ys Online: Call of Solum. From now until June 30th anyone that submits a helpful review of Ys Online: Call of Solum through the MMOFury review system, will qualify to win one of 15 great prizes. Ten random winners will receive special in-game items (Bathing Suit Costume), and the five most in depth reviews will come away with the grand prize: Big Turtre Summon Card (Mount) + the Vacation Look Costume!

MMOFury review system allows members to give detailed ratings of games, not just your standard five-star general rating. This way, reviewers can rate specific areas of the game and write their overall experience. In order to participate in this event, visitors need to register for an account at Key To Play and be registered at MMOFury to post the review.

Become the King of Football!

Korner Entertainment S.L. presents the most complete football Trivia game ever done. “King of Football” is a new concept of Trivia game based on the amazing world of Football. Clubs, players, stadiums… user should master all the details about football to be the King!

This Trivia game for PC includes more than 10.000 questions which can be answered playing in two different game modes: Quiz and Match Simulation. Questions are based on national and international leagues, world cups and history of football and have been created by a team of European journalists who know everything about international football. The Game also includes up to 5000 original photos about football.

King of Football will be released on Q4 2009 and it’s the first game which allows the user to play a football match while he answers questions about his favorite sport. It’s the first Football Trivia ever done!

Main features:

-2 Game modes: Quiz (just questions and answers… fast players will be the champions!) and Simulation (play a football match while answering questions)

-Real football match environment: Select and customize your team having in mind your players’ skills, choose the strategy, organize players and beat your opposite answering faster

-Special match events: Fatigue, injury, yellow and red cards, etc…

-Special cards with amazing features
-Editor of players, teams and equipments
-Optimized for every country: Questions about nationals teams, players and stadiums

Newly unveiled Alienware M17x Laptop up for grabs!

Heaven Media are pleased to announce that gamers will have the chance to compete for the ultimate prize, to celebrate the new top-of-the-range gaming laptop from Alienware.

The new Alienware M17x laptop combines brains with brawn to give you the ultimate Hi-def mobile gaming and entertainment powerhouse.

With mind-blowing graphics, the latest generation of processors and its new industrial design, you'll have the universe bowing before you.

The first of two stages of the competition, “Frag ‘till you drop”, takes place in the Outer Perimeter of Area-51 – and qualifying through this stage will require both a steadfast aim and an unyielding endurance. Each contestant will have to play on official Area-51 ranked Counter-Strike: Source deathmatch servers, and the top 51 will proceed into the next stage of the tournament.

These 51 highly talented gamers will be Inside Area-51, battling to prove themselves as the best of the best, as they follow the basic instruction: “Don’t get Left 4 Dead!” Contestants will be facing hoards of zombies in the popular Valve first person shooter Left 4 Dead, with a score table based on achievements and kills.

In addition to this competition, the Enter Area-51 mini-site will feature exclusive features and interviews on Alienware, and what has made them the world’s leader in gaming computers.

“This is our second gaming event with Alienware, after the success of Easter’s Gadget Show Live,” said Adam Godfrey, Business Development for Heaven Media. “With the previous event limited to professional players only this event opens up to the masses, anyone can take part and stand a chance to win a fantastic M17x gaming laptop.”

Anyone can register for the competition now, and find out more about Alienware, at http://Area51.Cadred.org

Redbana Announces Corporate Presence in North America and First Online Game Products

Redbana US Corp., the North American development and publishing division of T3 Entertainment, today officially announced their presence in the North American market as a premier game development and publishing studio. Their first order of business is the localization and ongoing operation of the hit global title, Audition, a massively-multiplayer online rhythm game with more than 300 million registered users worldwide.

“Redbana is committed to creating quality titles for all types of gamers in North America and abroad,” said Young Rok Park, CEO of Redbana. “We are a new studio, but with the formidable support of our parent company T3 Entertainment, we are confident in our ability to bring a legacy of success in the online games space. Additionally, we’ll be working on our own original IP while partnering with independent developers to publish unique and entertaining titles.”

Redbana took over operations of Audition from Nexon earlier this year. The game was originally launched in Korea in 2004 and has since become a worldwide phenomenon, with more than 300 million users playing Audition in more than 50 countries. In the game, players create deeply customizable avatars to compete in virtual dance competitions. An in-game microtransaction system allows online stars to buy unique hair styles, attire, accessories, faces and more.

“We look forward to welcoming the North American Audition community, and are working to improve and add to the game on all levels,” said Park. “As any person that has spent time in Audition knows, it’s a very engaging experience regardless if you play alone or with friends. Be careful though, it’s easy to let virtual fame go to your head!”

In 2008 Redbana acquired select intellectual property rights from Flagship Studios, which the company will announce plans for shortly.

For more information on Redbana US Corp., please visit http://www.redbana.com.

First Nintendo Wii game play trailer for Colin McRae's Dirt video game

Following a great showing for Colin McRae: DiRT 2 at E3 2009, Codemasters released the first Wii gameplay trailer for the thrilling off-road sequel. Showcasing the diverse off-roading single and four-player split screen thrills coming to gamers this September.

Bringing the ground-breaking series to Wii for the first time, Colin McRae: DiRT 2 takes gamers on an off-road tour of the globe, through nine exotic and vibrant locations. Whether it’s powersliding on the edge of control through the ice of the Finland or soaking up the atmosphere of a huge US arena, Colin McRae: DiRT 2 on Wii offers accessible gameplay for all types of racers, including full career and arcade modes and an array of bite-sized challenges.



With 40 races, three racing disciplines and a full roster of fully-licensed vehicles to choose from, plus intense head-to-head split-screen racing for up to four players, Colin McRae: DiRT 2 brings the hallmark thrills of the legendary series to a new audience.

Gran Turismo 5 - GTbyCITROEN concept turns GAMING fantasy into London reality

Citroën’s stunning concept supercar, the GTbyCITROËN, took to the streets of central London on Tuesday (23/06) to recreate part of the ‘street circuit’ featured in Gran Turismo 5 – the PlayStation3 driving game which the GTbyCITROËN was designed for.

Taking in some of the Capital’s most famous landmarks, the virtual-turned-reality supercar swapped pixels for Piccadilly as it swept through the world famous circus, toured Regent Street, rounded Trafalgar Square and cruised down the Mall past Buckingham Palace.

The result of a unique partnership between Citroën and Polyphony, designers of the Gran Turismo game series, the GTbyCITROËN concept measures nearly five metres long (4.96m) and just over a metre high
(1.09m) with an impressive supercar design sporting wide air intakes, rear air-diffuser, horizontal LED headlamps, gull wing doors and diamond-effect 21inch aluminium wheels. Inside the cabin offers a refined racing experience with copper, steel and black leather finishes combined with hi-tech racing controls.

The GTbyCITROËN will be making its UK show debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed (3-5 July) and will climb the famous 1.16-mile Goodwood Hill as part of the Sunday Times Supercar Run.

2K Sports Partners with Tencent to Bring NBA 2K Online to Asia

Partnership with China's largest online game operator to introduce top rated basketball video game franchise to NBA fans in Asia

2K Sports announce its partnership with Tencen to co-develop the online version of NBA 2K and distribute it to China and other key markets. 2K Sports has secured a multi-year license to develop the online simulation game, which will include all of the NBA teams, as well as current and retired NBA players.

“The incredible popularity of basketball in Asia combined with the love of online games in that region makes this a very exciting project for 2K,” said Christoph Hartmann, President of 2K. “For the first time, 2K is developing an online game combining our expertise in making the best-selling* and top-rated** NBA 2K video game franchise with the proven ability of Tencent for developing and operating highly successful online game communities in China.”

China experienced significant online gaming growth in 2008 and generated $2.75 billion in revenue - a 61% increase from the prior year***. This market is projected to reach $8.9 billion in revenue by 2013, with nearly 120 million people playing games online***.

“The NBA is excited to expand our relationship with 2K Sports to bring an online simulation basketball game to our fastest growing audience in the world," said Sal LaRocca, Executive Vice President, NBA Global Merchandising Group. "This is a unique opportunity for us to continue to reach our fans and further grow the game of basketball in China."

The popularity of the NBA continues to grow in China. For the third year in a row, more than one billion viewers have tuned into NBA programming to follow their favorite teams throughout the basketball season.

“This is a landmark agreement for the newly created Take-Two Asia, and all elements are in place to deliver the most successful online sports simulation game China has ever seen,” commented Hubert Larenaudie, President of Take-Two Asia. “In line with our strategic mandate to create a large footprint for our games in Asia, NBA 2K Online will also be released in Taiwan, South Korea and Southeast Asia, where numerous NBA basketball fans are eager to play their favorite sport online.”

Martin Lau, President of Tencent, said, “We are excited about the partnership, through which Tencent can bring this popular PC-based NBA game title to eager online game players, while also creating a new distribution platform for game developers and publishers to reach out to the largest online community in China. China’s online games market is at a nascent stage and we believe that the opportunities are just beginning to unfold. In addition to building partnerships with top game companies in the world, we are positioned to capture this market potential via the execution of our unique platform strategy, which enables us to continue to grow our user base and provide a diversified portfolio of products to game players in China.”

“I’m pleased to announce our first strategic move in what is now the fastest growing online game market in the world,” commented Ben Feder, Chief Executive Officer of Take-Two. “Given the universal appeal of sports, specifically NBA basketball, we believe that our partnership with Tencent to make NBA 2K Online is the perfect entry point for Take-Two into this market. NBA 2K has revolutionized the basketball gaming genre and we are confident that its best-in-breed pedigree can be fully leveraged in China with the support of our valued partners at Tencent and the NBA.”

Tencent is an integrated Internet services company that serves the largest and most active online community in China, which measured 411 million active user accounts and 58 million peak concurrent user accounts (PCU) as of the end of March 2009. Leveraging its huge instant messaging user base, Tencent launched its game portal, QQ Game, in August 2004 and is today the largest online game platform in China. The company is a leading game developer and operator that is committed to delivering an interactive and fun game experience through a diversified portfolio of products to game players in China. Tencent currently operates 67 mini casual games, 5 advanced casual games and 5 massive multi-player online games (MMOGs) on its game platform. It is the first and only game operator in China to have two games reach the 1-million PCU milestone.

Pearl Jam Rock Bands tracks added

Harmonix and MTV Games today announced that three tracks from alternative rock legends Pearl Jam will be added to the Rock Band Music Store of downloadable content for the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and PlayStation 3 computer entertainment system.

At the dawn of the '90s, Pearl Jam came together to form one of the most influential bands of the modern era. Beginning with their iconic debut album, "Ten," in 1991 and continuing through to today, the quintet have consistently combined the perfect amalgam of punk aesthetics with anthemic, classic rock sounds, and in the process have created one of the most respected catalogs in rock history. For the past 18 years, Pearl Jam has remained a relevant cultural and political force, having completed countless international tours and selling over 60 million records world wide. “Brother,” as well as live recordings of “Alive” and “State of Love and Trust,” from this year’s reissue of the band’s classic debut album, Ten, will be available this week in the Rock Band Music Store.

Tracks:
Pearl Jam “Brother”
Pearl Jam “Alive (Live: Drop in the Park)”
Pearl Jam “State of Love and Trust (Live: Drop in the Park)”
(All tracks are original master recordings)
These tracks will be available for purchase as part of the “Ten Bonus Pack” or as individual tracks for Xbox 360 and PLAYSTATION 3 systems.

Release Date: Tuesday, June 23, 2009
(Xbox LIVE Marketplace for Xbox 360)
Thursday, June 25, 2009
(PlayStation Store)

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

Price: $1.99 (160 Microsoft Points for Xbox 360) per track
$5.49 (440 Microsoft Points for Xbox 360) for “Ten Bonus Pack”

Locations: Xbox LIVE Marketplace for Xbox 360
PlayStation Network

Fallen Earth video game Beta test with FilePlanet

Stress Test and Increased Beta Mark the Next Phase in Testing for the Highly Anticipated Post-Apocalyptic MMO

FALLEN EARTH, LLC announce that the post-apocalyptic massively multiplayer online game (MMO) Fallen Earth will partner with the leading download service from IGN -FilePlanet- to increase the number of participants in the Beta session while allowing the development team to confirm launch capabilities of the network infrastructure.

Fallen Earth combines the best of both worlds by giving players first-person shooter combat with the depth and character advancement of a role-playing game. Taking place in the Grand Canyon as mankind teeters on the edge of extinction, players are thrust into a decaying society and must choose to rise above the hardships or embrace the surrounding destruction.

"The past few months have really helped the team solidify the gameplay and performance for Fallen Earth and we are ready to put the pressure on our servers to ensure they are ready for launch," said Colin Dwan, Project Manager for Fallen Earth. "FilePlanet brings the community and download capabilities necessary for a strong stress test, allowing us to focus on fixing the remaining bugs and to prepare for a successful launch."

To sign up for the expanded Beta and participate in the stress test, fans should visit FilePlanet. Only FilePlanet paid subscribers and Founders' Club members will be granted access through June 23. Current testers in the Fallen Earth Beta program will remain in testing. Fans can also stay up to date with Fallen Earth news and images on the Facebook and Twitter pages.

Dark Void new game play system explained - with video

Interested to know what Airtight originally had planned for Dark Void?
The second developer diary sees team members from Airtight & Capcom discuss the games early concept; why vertical combat was introduced plus the genesis of the jet pack.



Older videos...



Eight Dark Void trailers on my YouTube channel (please subscribe) here...

Weezer, Nine Inch Nails, Dead Kennedys come to Nintendo Wii Rock band

Harmonix and MTV Games today announced 16 tracks from Weezer, Nine Inch Nails, Dead Kennedys and more coming this week to the Rock Band Music Store catalog of downloadable content for the Nintendo Wii system.

Three songs each from West Coast favorites Weezer, alternative rockers Nine Inch Nails and punk staples Dead Kennedys will be added this week. Additionally, songs from Testament, Staind, Dashboard Confessional and more will be released June 23 to the Wii Rock Band Music Store.

These tracks come from the back catalog of Rock Band music already released to owners of Xbox 360 and PLAYSTATION 3 system. Wii fans can expect a rollout of previously released downloadable Rock Band content until the entire back catalog of more than 700 songs is available. With the addition of these tracks, there are now more than 330 tracks in the Wii Rock Band Music Store.

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

Tracks:
The Cab "One of THOSE Nights"
Dashboard Confessional "Hands Down"
Dead Kennedys "California Uber Alles"
Dead Kennedys "Holiday in Cambodia"
Dead Kennedys "Police Truck"
Free "All Right Now"
Nine Inch Nails "Burn"
Nine Inch Nails "Capital G"
Nine Inch Nails "Last"
Scars on Broadway "They Say"
Staind "This Is It"
Testament "Electric Crown"
thenewno2 "Yomp"+
Weezer "Dreamin"
Weezer "The Greatest Man That Ever Lived"
Weezer "Troublemaker"

(All tracks are original master recordings.)

Release Date: Tuesday, June 23, 2009

Price: $2.00 (200 Wii Points) per track
+ $1.00 (100 Wii Points) per track

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

Rock Band 2 is available for Xbox 360, PLAYSTATION 3 and PlayStation®2 systems and the Wii system. The Xbox 360, PLAYSTATION 3 system and Wii versions support downloadable content.

Downloadable content for Wii is purchased via the in-game Rock Band Music Store using Wii Points purchased through the Wii Shop Channel and can be downloaded to the system memory or to an SD card for additional storage. The tracks stream directly from the SD card for seamless play.

Flick Fishing game sells a million on iPhone and iPod Touch

Flick Fishing the first paid application to reach the one million download milestone.

Flick Fishing, which costs 99 cents, allows iPhone and iPod touch users to take a virtual fishing trip with the flick of a wrist. The game uses the iPhone’s accelerometer to recreate a casting motion, then a combination of bait choice and fishing skill helps players land the big fish.

The iPhone OS 3.0 update issued last week for Flick Fishing allows peer-to-peer networking for players to compare their catches while competing in a blackjack style fishing contest. In addition, in-app purchases of a new fishing location and new fish have been made by nearly 10 percent of users since the OS 3.0 update was issued.

“We couldn’t be happier that so many people decided to put on their virtual fishing cap and give Flick Fishing a try,” said Ian Lynch Smith, president and co-founder of Freeverse. “We’re very proud that over one million players have discovered that Flick Fishing is a great way to enjoy summer fun on your iPhone without the pesky flies and mosquitoes.”

Flick Fishing is one of Freeverse’s innovative Flick Sports titles, which make use of the accelerometer and touch screen interface featured in the iPhone and iPod touch to provide players with an immersive gaming experience. Freeverse’s extensive catalog of games also include Flick NBA Basketball, Flick Bowling, Top Gun, and its Postman virtual postcard application, which is currently the top selling social media app on the App Store.

Flick Fishing is available on the Apple iTunes Store

Family Party Outdoor Fun Nintendo Wii video game

D3 Publisher today announced an addition to the Family Party franchise, bringing Family Party: Outdoor Fun exclusively to Nintendo Wii. Entertaining for all, Family Party: Outdoor Fun has a wide variety of fun and exciting party games featuring martial arts, athletics, team sports, challenging brain games and more.

Players can choose from a dozen cute characters as they party with up to 4 friends and unlock games and challenges to achieve the highest score and win medals! Family Party: Outdoor Fun is a perfect follow-up to the 2008 hit, offering over 30 great games and hours of entertainment for all the family.

Family Party: Outdoor Fun is under development by Tamsoft Corporation, and due for release this Autumn.

Reel Deal Live PC video game free demo download

Cardsharks and Gamblers Can Experience the Online Casino MMO and Try Reel Deal LIVE for Free

Phantom EFX, the world’s leading developer and publisher of PC-based casual game titles, today released a free downloadable demo of the ever popular Reel Deal ‘LIVE’, the first-ever massively multiplayer online (MMO) casino.

“We wanted to give everyone the chance to experience a little bit of what Reel Deal ‘LIVE’ is all about,” said Phantom EFX CEO Aaron Schurman. “This demo is perfect for those who want to test drive the game before making the purchase. You’ll get a chance to see LIVE’s detailed casino environments and get a taste for some of the multiple slots, tables, and games that are available to play.”

The free Reel Deal 'LIVE' demo offers players a peak at the largest virtual casino ever constructed, giving would-be gamblers the thrill of the game without the upset of losing a fortune.

Constructed inside a seemingly boundless full 3D casino, Reel Deal ‘LIVE’ is a gambler’s paradise. Wager thousands on Black 21, go all in with Hold Em’, win big with on your favorite slot, or just cruise around and socialize. With Reel Deal ‘LIVE’, everyone wins!

Players who chose to become full members of the Reel Deal Community have access to a bevy of features:

• Completely customizable characters, or “avatars”
• Phantom EFX’s award winning card and slot titles, with free updates
• Video poker
• A race book and sports book
• Tournament play
• Social networking and alliance building through guild creation
• NPC (non-player character) quests
• A shopping mall for character and environment customization
• A university, for skill improvement
• Special “Golden Ticket” prizes, and much, much more.
To download the free Reel Deal ‘LIVE’ demo, visit www.gamershell.com.