Halo 3 ODST new co-operative multiplayer mode - with video

This is Firefight! Second “Halo 3: ODST” ViDoc drops, showcases new cooperative multiplayer mode

Stand back to back, Troopers, and give the enemy no ground! The Covenant invasion of earth is almost upon us, and it’s going to take a great deal of teamwork to keep the Brutes at bay. In the second “Halo 3: ODST” ViDoc from renowned developer Bungie, “Halo” series fan favorite Sgt. Avery Johnson offers a detailed look at the game’s action-packed cooperative multiplayer experience, Firefight.



Firefight features ten hellish missions that will test your ability to work as a team as you and your squad mates take on waves of increasingly brutal Covenant baddies. Grim, game-altering skulls continually change up the game and force your team to adapt to shifting challenges. Surviving the Covenant onslaught won't be easy so why not bring a “Halo” icon to the fight; pre-order your copy of “Halo 3: ODST” now (visit xbox.com or bungie.net for participating retailers) and unlock Sgt. Johnson for use in Firefight!

In addition to the new ViDoc, Bungie and Microsoft recently lifted the curtain on Rally Point at Gamescom, a sprawling Firefight map located in the city of New Mombasa. More details about Rally Point are below:



• Sector 10 inside the city of New Mombasa has seen better days. The air is heavy with acrid smoke parted only by the constant arrival of enemy drop ships. Lucky for you, the crossroads that converge on the entrance into ONI’s Alpha Site offer up a textbook choke point. The Covenant has come to claim access. You and your squad of ODST’s are going to stop them at all costs.

The new “Halo 3: ODST” ViDoc is available for download today on Xbox LIVE Marketplace. Stay tuned for the final ViDoc, set to premiere ahead of the worldwide launch of “Halo 3: ODST” on September 22nd.

NBA 2K10 Draft Combine Now Available for Xbox LIVE Arcade

Available for PlayStation Network on September 3

2K Sports today announced that NBA 2K10: Draft Combine , a download-only experience offering fans pre-season basketball excitement leading up to the launch of NBA 2K10 this fall, is now available for Xbox LIVE Arcade for the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft.

For the first time, NBA 2K10: Draft Combine will allow fans to create their own custom player and experience the on-court life of an NBA hopeful going through the NBA Draft Combine at the world-renowned ATTACK Athletics gym in Chicago.

NBA 2K10: Draft Combine will be available on the PlayStation Network for PLAYSTATION 3 computer entertainment system on September 3, 2009.

“We’re thrilled to provide this opportunity for fans to get an early taste of NBA competition before NBA 2K10 launches this fall,” said Greg Thomas, senior vice president of sports development for 2K. "They will be able to build their own custom player from over 300 different signature customizations, and later use them in NBA 2K10's all-new My Player career mode that will allow fans to continue their journey to become an NBA legend."

Features of NBA 2K10: Draft Combine include:
· Chicago Bulls’ Derrick Rose as spokesman.
· Building custom players and increasing their NBA stock through a variety of challenging basketball drills and 5-on-5 games.
· Over 300 different signature customizations, including player-specific shooting animations, and dunk and dribble packages to give each created player his own unique personal style.
· Ability to strengthen all parts of the created player's game through a variety of drills, such as shooting, post offense and defense, attacking the basket, dribbling, challenging shots, and boxing out for rebounds to progress through the NBA Draft Combine.
· Organized games that allow players to gain valuable skill points by offering a variety of specific in-game objectives to be accomplished. A full analysis will be available for gamers to review their player's performance and strategize further improvement.
· All players created in NBA 2K10: Draft Combine will wear a special patch on their uniform throughout the rest of that player's career to denote that they have completed the NBA Draft Combine.
· Online leaderboards to track the highest ranking custom built players, so fans can gauge how their player stacks up against the competition.
· Opportunity to unlock special achievements on Xbox 360 and trophies for PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system.
· Fans can take their custom built players from NBA 2K10: Draft Combine and use them in the all-new My Player career mode in NBA 2K10 launching this fall.

NBA 2K10: Draft Combine, developed by Visual Concepts, is now available for Xbox LIVE Arcade for Xbox 360 for 400 Microsoft Points in North America, Hong Kong, Singapore, Taiwan and India. The title will be available in North America and Korea on September 3, 2009 for the PlayStation Network for PLAYSTATION 3 system for $4.99.

Runes of Magic Patch 1.9 'Naga's Awakening' heralds second chapter

The Naga are back: After a thousand years of banishment, the snake-like beings have succeeded in passing through the magical wall which once kept them from human civilisation. The new content update ‘Naga’s Awakening’ doesn’t just tell the story of the start of the Naga invasion, but also at the same time marks the beginning of Runes of Magic’s second chapter, ‘The Elven Prophecy’.

Players can explore the ‘Weeping Coast’ right away. In this swamp territory adventurers will meet the Naga for the very first time. New quests tell the history of the region and ultimately lead to the bottom of the ocean. In the group dungeon ‘Heart of the Ocean’, alongside fish people and other ocean dwellers, there lurks a powerful leader of the snake-like beings, ready to seize unwary players. With ‘Naga’s Awakening,’ Frogster has also raised the level cap to 52.

The content update also expands Runes of Magic with more open combat, and a Public Encounter. In ‘Varanas Nightmare’, up to 150 players can step into nightmare world where the regional capital Varanas is in ruins and under siege by undead skeletons and nightmare beings. At the end of the three stage challenge for experienced player groups, there is an encounter with the Demon Lord himself – this is the first time that the eponymous fiendish lord of the first chapter makes an appearance.

Additional content from the second chapter, ‘The Elven Prophecy’, including the new Elven classes and NPCs, will be published in the second phase of the launch on 15 September.

Runes of Magic – A world full of magic and adventure
Runes of Magic has redefined the standard for free-to-play MMORPGs in terms of gameplay, fun and quality. The online role play game carries an exciting, multi-layered story, driven by more than 2,000 quests set in the atmospheric fantasy world of Taborea. To date, Runes of Magic has attracted more than 1.6 million registered users, making it one of the most successful titles in the free-to-play segment, and a must play game for all fans of MMOs and RPGs.

Runes of Magic features a unique dual class system enabling players to combine one of eight primary classes with a secondary class. The result is a deep player experience that expands upon the game’s deep customization offering. There are two different playable races, Elves and Humans, from which players can choose. Each dual class combination produces its own powerful elite skills. Another popular feature is the opportunity to furnish your own completely individual virtual home, and guilds can construct guild castles, which can be expanded with additional buildings. Thanks to comprehensive crafting and reputation systems, gripping PvP features, deep customization and demanding dungeons, Runes of Magic has something for everyone.

Taiwanese developer Runewaker regularly expands the game world with new free content and challenges.

Runes of Magic Features
- Dual class system with eight classes and unique elite skills
- Individual furnishing of player housing and guild castles
- In-depth story experienced through above 2,000 quests laced with epic quest-lines
- Gripping Player-versus-Player duels in arenas and on the battlefield
- Easy travel using portal stones and a wide range of rideable animals
- Challenging boss-combat in dangerous and extensive dungeons with up to 36 simultaneous players
- Entertaining mini-games offering variety to the hero’s routine
- Dynamic crafting and customization of items
- Regular comprehensive free updates with new game content
- Free-to-Play: No monthly subscriptions, free to download the game
 
Facts
Title: Runes of Magic
Genre: Fantasy MMORPG
Platform: Windows PC
Publisher: Frogster Online Gaming GmbH
Developer: Runewaker Entertainment Ltd.
Release:
19.03.2009 “Chapter I – Rise of the Demon Lord”
15.09.2009 “Chapter II – The Elven Prophecy”
USK: from 12 years
PEGI: 12+

Tropico 3 video game - Official release dates & Demo version

Tropico 3, the long awaited sequel to the well-known strategy game series will be hitting stores within the next few weeks for both PC and Xbox 360.

The official release dates are as follows:

Worldwide (including UK):
PC & Xbox 360: 16th October, 2009









Germany:
PC: 24th September, 2009
Xbox 360: 16th October, 2009

The PC demo will be released the week commencing 7th September, 2009.

SouthPeak Challenges Sleuths to Investigate Crime Scene for Nintendo DS

Interactive Crime-Solving Title Scheduled for Release this Holiday Season

Leading video game publisher, SouthPeak Games, announced today a new Nintendo DS title, Crime Scene, scheduled for release this holiday season. Crime Scene puts players in the role of a detective, giving them a full arsenal of police tools to solve crimes and ensure justice is served.

“People love a good ‘whodunit’, so we’re about to give them a bunch of head-scratching crimes to solve,” said Richard Iggo, VP of Marketing at SouthPeak. “Whether you are a fan of police dramas on TV, classic detective fiction, or just tricky puzzles, Crime Scene allows players to take part in their own tense, high stakes investigation and get involved in forensic work.”

Crime Scene turns Nintendo DS into a weapon of justice. Players are tasked with combing through crime scenes and untangling suspense-filled scenarios by using the stylus, breath and voice features, and their own eye for detail to condemn wrongdoers. All the police tools are at the players’ disposal as they study bodies, take blood samples, collect fingerprints, use voice recognition software, identify murder weapons, conduct DNA analyses and more.

Need for Speed Shift UK Championships Win a brand new Nissan 350Z GT

Electronic Arts has teamed up with retailer GAME to create the ultimate video game driving challenge: the Need For Speed SHIFT UK Championships. Starting on August 28, gamers will be able to put their racing skills to the test as they compete in GAME stores across the UK to post the fastest lap times on new video game Need for Speed SHIFT, the latest edition of EA Games’ renowned Need for Speed series.

Heats will take place at 49 GAME stores, with the fastest winners going on to face off in a final set of time trials to be held at Thorpe Park, Surrey, on September 26th.
The 49 finalists will then compete to set a quick lap time worthy of being crowned the Need for Speed SHIFT UK Champion, with the winner receiving the keys to a brand new Nissan 350Z GT sports car. There will also be a host of other spot prizes for participants in individual stores.

“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 Stuart Lang, EA UK Marketing Director. “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. This contest will allow thousands of gamers across the UK to experience that feeling and reward them for their skill.”

Martyn Gibbs, Customer and Brand Director at GAME, said: “This is a great chance for GAME customers to come in store and try an exciting new game before it’s released. The game play is fast and incredibly realistic. Lots of budding racers are going to be really excited to come in and test their racing skills against other racers around the country. And to top it all, the prize is amazing. It’s another example of GAME going the extra mile for customers.”

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

BioWare’s Dragon Age: Origins to Feature the Voices of Fantasy and Sci-Fi Stars Tim Curry and Kate Mulgrew

Leading video game developer BioWare, a division of Electronic Arts, has secured a star-studded voiceover cast for its upcoming blockbuster game, Dragon Age - Origins. Featuring Tim Curry, star of The Rocky Horror Picture Show and Broadway’s Spamalot, as well as Kate Mulgrew, well-known for her role as Capt. Kathryn Janeway in “Star Trek: Voyager”, Dragon Age: Origins also includes notable cast members Tim Russ (“Star Trek: Voyager,” “Samantha Who?”), Claudia Black (“Stargate SG-1,” “Pitch Black”) and Steve Valentine (“Estate of Panic,” “Crossing Jordan”). Dragon Age: Origins marks BioWare’s return to fantasy, created from the ground up to take players through a dark epic tale filled with violence, lust, and betrayal.

Tim Curry will play the villainous Arl Rendon Howe. Howe is the calculating villain, cultured and charming, with an insatiable lust for power, who never hesitates to harm anyone who gets in his way. Kate Mulgrew will lend her vocal flair to Flemeth, a powerful witch who maintains her immortality through the darkest of means, and who plays a pivotal role in the player’s survival. Both roles provide the actors with the opportunity to bring their considerable talents to bear in their portrayal of these characters.

“Dragon Age: Origins has the largest cast of characters of any game BioWare has ever made,” said Mark Darrah, Executive Producer, BioWare. “By working with an incredibly talented cast of actors we are able to bring reality and depth to the characters, their back stories, motivations, and dreams that our talented writers have created for them.”

In Dragon Age: Origins, players take on the role of a Grey Warden, one of the last of an ancient order of guardians who have served as protectors throughout the centuries. Only they have the power to unite the shattered lands, defeat the Archdemon and drive back the darkspawn that threaten to destroy the world. Players will interact with many interesting characters who may join them in their quest, and they will choose whether these characters become friends, foes, or even a romantic interest. Featuring a deep and compelling story where every choice can have a dramatic impact on the game, Dragon Age: Origins is scheduled to release on November 3, 2009 in North America, for the PC and Xbox 360 videogame and entertainment system and later in November for the PLAYSTATION 3 computer entertainment system.

Dragon Age: Origins is rated M by the ESRB.

Role-playing game for Xbox 360 and PC Risen Experience website offers new tasks

Piranha Bytes today announced the second chapter of the official Risen Experience website http://risen.deepsilver.com

In the first chapter, the visitor to the island of Faranga was surprised by gnomes. But, of course, the adventure doesn't end here! Having been rescued by a helpful island dweller, the first priority is now to find and equip a weapon.

En route to the next settlement, the protagonist gets to pick one of several possible paths – just like in the RPG Risen itself, the player has numerous options available for achieving the chosen goal.

At the same time, the official Risen blog keeps fans up to date with topical news about the development of the game and background information from the world of Risen.

About Risen:
This epic role playing game is set in a medieval world on a volcanic Mediterranean island, The “Risen” story unfolds over four chapters and will offer multiple ways to develop the story by his own actions and decisions. An innovative and intuitive user control interface will support both casual and hardcore gamers. With full world streaming support, the player will have a seamless experience while playing in a fully simulated game world with authentic characters.

Second beta kicks off for action video game Mini Fighter

Second Round of Closed Beta Testing Adds Even More Ways to Fight Online!

CJ Internet, the leading global entertainment company, today announced the start of the second closed beta test for online action game Mini Fighter. Thousands of players participated in the first closed beta, and their valuable feedback has been used to make Mini Fighter even bigger and badder than it was before.

Head to Netmarble.com, sign up for the new beta, and prove that your fighting skills are up to the challenge!

“The survey responses we received have been incredibly helpful in helping us make Mini Fighter as fun as possible,” said Youngjong Jung, President and CEO of CJ Internet. “Over half the players who responded asked for new modes, so we made sure there were plenty of never-before-seen zones to enjoy in the second closed beta.”

Whether you want to tackle the 50 levels of Dungeon Mode, head to the Sky Zone to fight epic battles amongst the clouds, or take on other players as a monster in the newly-added Boss Zone, you’re sure to find a brawl that fits your style in Mini Fighter.

Free FEAR 2 Reborn video game demo download on PlayStation 3 and Xbox LIVE

Warner Bros and Monolith Studios are pleased to announce that a playable demo for F.E.A.R. 2: Reborn, the next F.E.A.R. 2: Project Origin DLC pack, is available for free download via PlayStation Network and Xbox LIVE Marketplace.

This free demo provides the first chance to get a hands-on look at the upcoming single-player campaign, featuring four all new levels. F.E.A.R. 2: Reborn immerses gamers in the aftermath of Alma’s destruction with a mysterious new point-of-view: that of Replica Soldier Foxtrot 813. Be careful, not all is as it seems.

Download now and get the first look at F.E.A.R. 2: Reborn today!

The complete F.E.A.R. 2: Reborn experience will be available for purchase on September 3 via PlayStation Network for the PLAYSTATION 3 computer entertainment system, and Xbox LIVE for Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, and Windows PC. Additionally, patches for PlayStation 3 and PC and a title update for Xbox 360—all including Slow-Mo Deathmatch mode capabilities—will be made available for free on September 3.

About F.E.A.R. 2: Project Origin:

In F.E.A.R.2: Project Origin, a routine assignment to locate the president of Armacham Technology Corporation turns into a desperate battle for survival after an explosion decimates the city and unleashes Alma Wade, the terrifying supernatural menace at the centre of Armacham's highly classified Project Origin. As Alma 's power swells out of control, special forces Sgt. Michael Becket and his squad must battle through an apocalyptic landscape of shattered buildings and buckled streets in search of clues for how to destroy her. The more Becket learns about Armacham's secret experiments and reckless agenda, the more he begins to suspect that he's somehow linked to the crisis and may be the only one capable of averting total disaster. F.E.A.R. 2: Project Origin is rated 18 and is available now for Xbox 360, PLAYSTATION 3 and Games for Windows.

Masaya Matsuura to deliver BAFTA Vision Statement at GameCity Squared

GameCity Squared, the fourth iteration of the world's best loved video game culture festival is proud to announce that the father of rhythm-action, Masaya Matsuura will be delivering this year's BAFTA Vision Statement at the festival on Saturday 31st October.

Following in the footsteps of Lorne Lanning, Keita Takahashi and Alex Evans, Matsuura-san promises to deliver an extraordinary keynote in the heart of the city that will dissect the state of the music game genre and give some personal insights into the future of video games.

"The Vision Statement is a unique platform for the most interesting, provocative developers in the World to deliver their thoughts and manifestos independent of any PR constraint. We're beside ourselves with excitement that Matsuura-san has agreed to deliver the address this year", said GameCity director Iain Simons.

He'll be in good company - with full details yet to be announced, a radical set of new venues and a free to attend programme, GameCity Squared promises to be the most audacious GameCity yet.

GameCity runs from 27 - 31 October, 2009. www.gamecity.org

Joystick Junkies get chic with E4!

Streetwear label Joystick Junkies has teamed up with E4 to make a stand for dweebs, dorks and nerds the world over. E4 and Joystick Junkies are searching for the ultimate geek chic face of 2010 who’ll feature in a Joystick Junkies fashion shoot for the Spring Summer 2010 collection.

Entrants have to send in their ‘gamer geek chic’ looks to the E4 website by 17 September 2009 at 10am – the winning pictures will be those that are funny or interesting and should show evidence of a passion for gaming. Anyone from babes to bikers can enter - it’s not about model looks.

First prize is the chance to feature in a fashion shoot organised by fashion label Joystick Junkies, plus the winner’s choice of clothes to keep from their catalogue (up to the value of £100). Three runners up also get to select £100 worth of Joystick Junkies clothing each.

Launching 28th August on E4

Joystick Junkies (www.joystickjunkies.com)
E4 (www.e4.com/gamegeeks)

Kundara Dungeon, Van Cliff Fortress and many more content updates to come in video game 'Dragonica'

Dragonica is the free arcade-style 3D side-scrolling MMORPG developed by Barunson Interactive and published by Gala Networks Europe Ltd. across Europe. Following a very successful launch in June, the game has recently been updated with the new high-level Kundara dungeon, and will soon open the doors of the terrifying Van Cliff Fortress along with several other major improvements.

Kicking off a series of highly anticipated content updates for Dragonica, the Kundara dungeon is a new high level dungeon inspired by South-American mythology. This new dungeon is already available on Dragonica Europe and will be followed in a few weeks by the Van Cliff Manor, a dark dungeon aimed at experienced adventurers. In it, players will have to battle against the undead armies in a maze of stone walls paved with traps, and survive the ferocious attacks of several bosses including Dracula, the Werewolf, the Gate Keeper Gargoyle, and finally the huge and terrifying Bone Dragon.

In addition to these two dungeons, the upcoming update will also feature a series of new regular and hero quests, which will delve into the background behind Dr. Farrel’s corruption by the witch Paris. Other features include UI improvement, personal character cards for the players to show off, new weapons and items, as well as a revision of the mission map results. All these new features will be added for free through a simple update of the game in early Autumn 2009.

For more information on Dragonica, please visit the official website at http://dragonica.gpotato.eu. For European users who are travelling outside of Europe, you are now able to play Dragonica with gPotato while abroad by clicking the “Register my IP” button before logging into the game.

Outspark bringing T-Pain virtual goods to their online games, including MMORPG Fiesta

Embracing the cross-cultural appeal of the Grammy-winning rapper turned singer, Outspark announced a partnership bringing T-Pain virtual goods to their portfolio of online games, including their MMORPG Fiesta.

Fiesta brings players to the colorful, vibrant world of Isya, where players can socialize and make friends, then battle ferocious monsters as they quest for fame and fortune. The singer’s top hat, glasses, and suit from his latest album, Thr33 Ringz are now available via the Fiesta website at http://events.outspark.com/2009/fiesta/tpain/.

“T-Pain is one of those pop culture figures that resonates with our audience.,” said Wilson Kriegel, Outspark Vice President of Business Development. “We love it when we can provide our users with the opportunity to connect themselves with the music, TV shows, and clothing they immerse themselves in every day.”

With two Gold and one Platinum-selling album, as well as collaborations with Kanye West, Lil Wayne, Jamie Foxx, and Flo Rida, T-Pain has been at the top of the charts as well as the musical world since 2005’s debut Rappa Ternt Sanga. His instantly identifiable vocal style as well as his larger than life persona has kept him in the forefront of the pop culture consciousness.

As Outspark’s latest venture in bringing real-life properties to virtual worlds, the launch of T-Pain’s items benefits from Outspark’s integrated launch approach, as well as the business partnership support of Virtual Greats. In addition to putting the virtual goods into Fiesta, 5 million Outspark users have a shot to enter a T-Pain-themed video contest and win prizes including autographed items. They also received the exclusive opportunity to purchase the T-Pain items well before the official partnership announcement. Other recent agreements through its partnership with Virtual Greats have brought Rocawear’s cutting-edge urban lifestyle apparel to Outspark’s Project Powder, and Tila Tequila’s sassy style to Fiesta.

Outspark has pioneered a progressive game publishing model that brings engaging free to play games and social networking to a hip, young audience of over 5 million players. In addition to the Rocawear, T-Pain, and Tila Tequila partnerships, Outspark has music, celebrity & apparel agreements in place for their upcoming title Dance Groove Online as well as other, unannounced properties.

Atlantica Online Mega-Event Awards Grand Prize; 2010 Scion tC Coupe enjoy the year’s best free-to-play MMORPG

"Unlock Your Way to Atlantica" Summer Giveaways Complete

Ndoors Interactive, creator of the hit free-to-play strategic turn-based MMORPG Atlantica Online, has announced the end of their summer promotion “Unlock Your Way to Atlantica.” The Mega-Event, which began in June, has awarded over $30,000 in prizes to several lucky winners among the game’s players.

Kevin Lin, 19 years old from Palo Alto, California was chosen as Atlantica Online’s Mega Event winner of the Scion tC sports coupe.

Thousands of new players signed up for a chance to win fabulous prizes like game systems, graphics hardware, LCD monitors, and the grand prize, a 2010 Scion tC sports coupe. With all prizes now distributed, “Unlock Your Way to Atlantica” has officially concluded. Atlantica Online, where hundreds of thousands of players are battling away right now, will continue to provide future opportunities like this while still being one of the best free online gaming experiences in the world.

You can still enjoy the year’s best free-to-play MMORPG by visiting: www.playatlantica.com/ao

Command and Conquer 4 Tiberian Twilight - new official name for video game

In the name of Kane - the fans have spoken. EA Los Angeles announces the official name for the upcoming iteration of the award-winning real-time strategy series, Command & Conquer 4. Scheduled for a 2010 release, Command & Conquer 4 Tiberian Twilight was chosen by the series’ dedicated fan base as their favorite name for the next installment of the best-selling game franchise.

More than 15,000 fans from all over the world submitted their ideas via www.commandandconquer.com, with Command & Conquer 4 Tiberian Twilight being the most popular title for EALA’s conclusion to the epic Tiberium saga.

“Our sophisticated fans are a tremendous community with a great love for the series. We really wanted to involve them in Command &Conquer 4 – what better way than to have them create the title?” said Mike Glosecki, Lead Producer on Command & Conquer 4 at EA Los Angeles. “We were blown away by all the creative names they came up with but the most popular selection, Tiberian Twilight, seemed the best fit, embodying that the saga is coming to a powerful and epic conclusion.”

Command & Conquer 4 Tiberian Twilight brings a multitude of innovations to the fast and action-packed C&C gamezplay that fans have come to love in the series’ 15-year legacy. Introducing mobile bases, persistent player progression, a 3-class system and an objective-based 5v5 multiplayer, Command & Conquer 4 Tiberian Twilight will bring fans more strategic depth and compelling new gameplay variations than any C&C game before. With the return of the series’ signature high quality live action cinematics, including Joe Kucan as the Brotherhood of Nod’s enigmatic leader Kane, Command & Conquer 4 Tiberian Twilight is set out to give fans a powerful and stunning conclusion to their beloved saga.

Command & Conquer 4 Tiberian Twilight will be available for the PC in 2010 and has not yet been rated by the ESRB or PEGI.

Serious Sam HD The First Encounter Fact Sheet

The indie sensation Serious Sam: The First Encounter is reborn in glorious high-definition. Serious Sam HD: The First Encounter features dazzling visuals and a revamped design, in which gamers take control of the legendary Sam ‘Serious’ Stone as he is sent back through time to ancient Egypt to battle the overwhelming forces of Lord Mental and the Sirian army.



• Powered by the next-generation Serious Engine 3, Serious Sam: The First Encounter HD features beautifully rendered, high-resolution visuals and lushly redesigned environments to create the most astonishing Serious Sam game ever

• Return to the golden age of frantic, non-stop first-person-shooter action and face Serious Sam’s trademark onslaught of enemies - from the charging Sirian Werebull to the screaming Headless Kamikaze and the multi-story Ugh-Zan

• Fire up one of the greatest arsenals in gaming history by wielding demon-stopping revolvers, lead-spewing miniguns, monstrous cannons and the notorious Serious Bomb

• More than 12 levels of bedlam set against the expansive backdrop of ancient Egypt – all reworked in stunning HD

• Embrace the mayhem with up to sixteen players through online co-op and taunt your pwn worthy friends with leaderboards and stat-tracking

Xbox 360 teams up with puma for Forza Motorsport 3 racing video game

Microsoft today announced a global partnership with PUMA for the highly anticipated release of Forza Motorsport 3, out 23rd October 2009. This collaboration will ensure prominent PUMA branding within the “Forza Motorsport 3” game worldwide and includes a series of joint marketing initiatives across Europe and North America.

A leader in its own right, Microsoft’s Forza Motorsport franchise is among the top-selling racing games worldwide. Available exclusively on Xbox 360, “Forza Motorsport 3” is the only racing game that lets players collect, paint and tune more than 400 of the worlds’ most exotic and exquisite cars
then put them to the test on more than 100 tracks from around the globe. Best of all, whether you’re a first time player or seasoned racing game pro, “
Forza Motorsport 3” delivers an experience where everyone can have fun behind the wheel of their dream car. The Forza Motorsport 3 collaboration marks PUMA’s 10th anniversary in Motorsport. As a category leader for performance and lifestyle Motorsport footwear, apparel and accessories, PUMA sponsors some of Formula One and Moto GP's top teams, including Scuderia Ferrari, Red Bull Racing, BMW Sauber, Scuderia Toro Rosso and Ducati Corse.

The partnership includes a number of cross promotional elements, including the development of a limited edition Forza branded PUMA shoe, to coincide with the game launch. Exclusive gaming nights in selected PUMA Concept Stores will enable Forza Motorsport fans to preview Forza Motorsport 3 before launch. Regular Forza content will also feature on the recently re-launched PUMAMotorsport.com.

Further to this, Xbox recently has announced PUMA supplied driver Natacha Gachnang as the Face of Forza for a pan-European PR programme. PUMA outfits Gachnang for her professional role within the FIA Formula Two Championship, and will provide apparel and accessories to Microsoft event staff throughout the tour, and across all trade events and conferences at which Microsoft will exhibit “Forza Motorsport 3.”

Antonio Bertone, Chief Marketing Officer of PUMA AG said, “The Forza Motorsport association is the perfect fit for our brand. This partnership enables us to capitalize on the energy and excitement that accompanies a huge release such as Forza, and push the PUMA Motorsport brand into a new and exciting arena. We’re delighted to be working with Microsoft on this.”

Steve Beinner of Microsoft said “PUMA’s involvement in the release of Forza Motorsport 3 is testament to the anticipation that’s building among car lovers worldwide for the game’s October launch. The game has continued to grow in appeal with every edition we have launched, and we’re thrilled to have PUMA as an official partner of Forza Motorsport 3.”

Backbreaker Football Tackle Alley video game for Apple iPhone and iPod Touch

Introduction to New Football Franchise Backbreaker to Hit iTunes App Store Fall 2009

NaturalMotion, the animation technology and game development studio behind the euphoria engine, today announced that Backbreaker Football: Tackle Alley, an exclusive introduction to their revolutionary new football franchise Backbreaker, will be available for the iPhone and iPod Touch this Fall.

Inspired by a mini-game taken from NaturalMotion’s Backbreaker (in development for Xbox 360 PLAYSTATION 3), Backbreaker Football: Tackle Alley on the iPhone is an intense, arcade football experience. Using accelerometer controls and on-screen buttons, the player must sprint, dodge and spin past waves of oncoming defenders, racking up point combos and score multipliers on their way to the endzone. Through Facebook integration, players will be able to see how their high-scores stack up against their friends'.

Backbreaker Football: Tackle Alley takes advantage of morpheme, NaturalMotion’s graphically authorable animation engine. morpheme produces animation of a quality not seen before on the iPhone and iPod Touch providing the on-screen characters with a fluidity of motion rivaling that experienced on home consoles. That quality, combined with high-impact tackles, dynamic third-person cameras, an imposing 3D stadium and animated crowds place the player in a truly immersive environment.

“We are excited to kick off the Backbreaker football experience on the iPhone and are stunned to see what visual fidelity is achievable on this platform,” said Torsten Reil, CEO of NaturalMotion. “Together with our partners Ideaworks3D, we think we’ve come up with something special and can’t wait to get this game into everyone’s hands.”

Backbreaker Football: Tackle Alley is being developed by Ideaworks3D, a world leader in mobile technology, application and game development.

“This has been a great project for our studio, and a chance to push the quality boundaries on the iPhone by combining morpheme and our Airplay game development tools,” said Alex Caccia, CEO of Ideaworks3D. “But above all, the game is fun to play and hard to put down.”

Backbreaker Football: Tackle Alley is to be published by NaturalMotion and will be available to purchase on the iTunes App Store Fall 2009.

BioWare Expands Mass Effect Universe with New Downloadable Content Pack for Episode 1 Patch 1.02 download link

Leading video game developer BioWare, a division of Electronic Arts announce the launch of Mass Effect: Pinnacle Station, a new Game Add-on for the original Mass Effect game, the first episode in the epic trilogy. The Game Add-On for the 2007 award-winning Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system and downloadable pack for the PC title introduces an intense combat challenge to the epic Mass Effect universe.

Picking up where the first game ended, players will enter Pinnacle Station, a top-secret Alliance training facility. Featuring 13 scenarios ranging from fast-paced combat simulations to high-stakes winner-takes-all wagers, players will push their combat skills to the limit. The Mass Effect: Pinnacle Station Game Add-On is available today for 400 Microsoft points on Xbox LIVE Marketplace. It is also available for the PC version at $5 and can be found at http://eastore.ea.com.

In Pinnacle Station, players will encounter aggressive simulated enemies and unlock a mysterious new location. In the station players will acquire rare weapons and special armor available exclusively in the Pinnacle Station Game Add-On. With each successful mission, players are rewarded with Xbox 360 Achievement points.

“At BioWare, we’re committed to providing ongoing support for all our franchises. With Mass Effect: Pinnacle Station, you’ll execute challenging new combat missions that will allow you to reenter the Mass Effect galaxy with a bang!” said Dr. Ray Muzyka, Group General Manager and Senior Vice President, Electronic Arts, and co-founder and CEO, BioWare. “Regardless of whether you choose to start Mass Effect 2 as a standalone adventure, or import your Mass Effect saved games, we know that you will enjoy Episode 2 for all of its intense action, dramatic plot twists and memorable characters.”

Pinnacle Station for Xbox 360 is now available for download on LIVE Marketplace for 400 Microsoft points at http://marketplace.xbox.com/en-US/. To download the PC version visit the EA store at http://eastore.ea.com.

The 1.02 patch for Mass Effect is required for the installation of Pinnacle Station and is available for download today on http://masseffect.bioware.com/.

The Mass Effect trilogy is a masterful science fiction adventure set in a vast universe filled with dangerous alien life and mysterious uncharted planets. Mass Effect 2 is scheduled for release on Xbox 360 and PC in early 2010.

Empires in Arms Gets a Major Update! A new Scenario Editor, many fixes and an improved AI on the way to gamers!

Matrix announce the 1.06.03 update for the PC adaptation of the award winning Napoleonic strategy game, Empires in Arms. This major comprehensive update comes with dozens of bug fixes, an updated manual, several improvements leading to a smarter AI, and a few rule tweaks. It is strongly recommended that all Empires in Arms customers upgrade to this version.

The 1.06.03 update also comes with a new scenario editor complete with documentation in the updated manual. The scenario editor will allow gamers to change units, timeframes, and leaders and construct their own original scenarios.

David Heath, Director of Operations at Matrix Games, said “We are pleased to bring gamers the sixth update to Empires in Arms for the PC since the game’s initial release and look forward to continuing our support of this great game. We believe that this update represents a major step forward since the last 1.05.05 official update.”

Take command of one of the many factions in early 19th century Europe! Empires in Arms is a grand strategy turn-based race to prove which nation is the greatest in Europe. In a bid for mastery over the continent, players can succeed where Napoleon failed or try to stop the military genius quicker than his historical enemies could!

The game moves in monthly turns where diplomacy and builds are conducted. Within the monthly turns there are a variable number of impulses where corps and fleets move about. All movement is simultaneous with battles occurring at the end of the impulse. Battles are resolved by players both picking a strategy and fighting a series of rounds in an attempt to break the enemy. Make and break alliances, declare war, invade minor nations, propose peace terms, build armies of landwehr, regulars, guards, light cavalry, heavy cavalry and artillery. Many historical leaders from the period are included to command corps and fleets, from Admiral Nelson to Marshal Davout to the Pashas of the Ottoman Empires.

The slightest mistake could be the difference between the crown of Europe or exile to St. Helena. Step into history and find your destiny in Empires in Arms!

Section 8 Pre-Order Items Unveiled Plus, Download the Multiplayer Demo from Xbox LIVE! + Beta link

SouthPeak Games has revealed the exclusive in-game items that gamers receive by pre-ordering the futuristic multiplayer FPS Section 8 in the UK. Those who pre-order will be given a special code to unlock unique weapons and armour, to ensure they look the business when playing online.

By pre-ordering the PC version either in-store or online at GAME, FPS fans can get their hands on the Captain’s Armour, the SIW7 “Black Widow” Combat Pistol and two Assault Rifle variants. Meanwhile at Play.com, anyone who pre-orders Section 8 on the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment platform from Microsoft, can head into the battle wearing the Captain’s Armour. More details about each item can be found below.

Section 8 is available in the UK on September 11 and a multiplayer demo is currently available on Xbox LIVE, so you can experience the fast-paced online action for yourself. For more details about the game, to join the community or take part in the open beta on PC, head over to www.joinsection8.com.

Captain’s Armour

Chain of Command is vital to the success of every military operation and it’s no different in the future universe of Section 8. The Captain takes the lead in the thickest of fighting and provides a source of inspiration to his fellow troopers and a figure to be feared by the ranks of the enemy as a veteran of combat.

Pre-order Section 8 to receive exclusive Captain’s Armour for both Section 8 and their adversaries: the Arm of Orion. As Captain, your power armour separates you from the rank and file. If you choose to play as a Captain of Section 8, you’ll proudly wear the Imperial Eagle of the USIF on your shoulder plate; as a Captain of the Arm of Orion, you’ll stand out with the rampant Lion of Orion emblazoned on your helmet and gold trim on your power armour.

SIW7 “Black Widow” Combat Pistol

The SIW7 “Black Widow” Combat Pistol is the preferred handgun of Special Forces reconnaissance teams across the galaxy. With its deadly accuracy and effortless reloading, this rapid-fire pistol is wielded best in the hands of only the most experienced soldiers. Its large .60 calibre slugs cause devastating ballistic force upon close and mid-range targets. Few have seen the Cobra in combat and even fewer have lived to tell about it.

Assault Rifle variants

The Assault Rifle is one of the most diverse weapons available. It features a scope for longer range engagements and an automated short- range firing mode, making it an effective weapon in nearly all encounter types. It is exceptionally accurate in short bursts. While in short-range mode, the assault rifle will fire alternate rounds. These rounds will partially bypass shields and damage armour directly. Your crosshairs will automatically update whenever a target triggers the short-range capabilities of this weapon.

Elite veterans of both Section 8 and the Arm of Orion have been known to decorate their rifles with custom paint jobs and markers signifying 'kills'. Only troopers who have demonstrated elite combat capability and have participated in multiple combat missions are allowed to do this and given that the life expectancy of troopers is minimal, there are few of these rifles on the battlefield. Section 8 chooses to customise their weapons with shark teeth, while the Arm has gruesome skulls.