Blockdot Releases "White House Joust 2008"

Republicans and Democrats can agree on one thing this election year: Dallas-based Blockdot’s newest game, White House Joust 2008, is a bipartisan blast!

The game, created for the Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, Chamber of Commerce, is being released to coincide with the city’s hosting of the Republican and Democratic presidential debates in January.

Your goal in White House Joust 2008: Maneuver your candidate’s blimp above the sun-soaked South Carolina sand, then ram the blimps of the other presidential contenders!

Start the game by selecting your political party. Next, choose your favorite presidential candidate. Now you’re ready to enter this fantastically fun fight! Tap the spacebar repeatedly to take off and gain altitude. Good job — you’re flying! Wait, who’s that at eleven o’clock high? It’s another presidential candidate! Quick, use the arrow keys to steer your blimp towards your opponent. The target is in your sights…keep tapping that spacebar to gain the altitude advantage…perfect, now ram your opponent’s blimp! Points are awarded for each candidate you knock out of the sky.

Want to boost your score? Pick up the campaign playbook that falls out of your opponent’s busted blimp — it’s worth bonus points!

But remember the golden rule of jousting: you must be at a higher altitude than your opponent before you attack. Let another candidate fly above your blimp and you’ll become the target. If you’re hit three times by your opponents, you’ll be tossed off the campaign trail, game over!

You can throw your hat into the presidential jousting ring by visiting Blockdot’s gaming portal www.kewlbox.com. To learn more about America’s Beach Playground, go to www.visitmyrtlebeach.com.

[XBLA] Load Inc. attending GDC, come say hello!

Load Inc., the biggest small Paris based development studio, is attending Game Connection @ GDC – for the fourth time!
Why should you care?

“Well you shouldn’t” says DenisDenis, head of tap dancing class at Load Inc. “forget about it if you’re not into high profit, next gen, cool budget and direct download titles”.

This year again, they’ll be presenting a new concept for downloadable platforms, including the now obvious Xbox 360 Live Arcade.

On top of things, Load Inc. will help you port your own license on XBLA and make you rich errr, famous.

You’re not on XBLA yet? Read the news!

It’s hot, happening, easy, growing fast, hip, hard core and family oriented. You can buy awesome games from your couch! It is the reconciliation of your wife / girlfriend / dog / mother in law with gaming!! You don’t want to miss the train, right?
Load Inc. will take you with them. Meet them. See what they have to say and decide for yourself. They have info backing up their stories.

Pleased To Meet You!

As RealtimeUK continues to expand its list of high profile clients, we are also focusing on expanding our team with accomplished and dynamic new people.

So we have great pleasure in introducing three new faces to the RealtimeUK team – Andrew Lord, Richard Clay and Karinga Wells.

Firstly we would like to welcome Andrew Lord, who has come on board as Business Development Manager. Andrew was previously working as a Business Development Manager at Red Vision, where he was working with high profile clients including Ladbrook’s and Sky. Andrew has extensive business development experience and is a qualified Prince2 practitioner in project management.

The second new face joining the team is Richard Clay, who joins RealtimeUK as a Character Animator. Before joining us Richard worked as an animator at Axis Animation. Richard has a wealth of experience that he brings to the company, having worked on a variety of projects including next generation FMV’s and commercials and children’s TV series for the BBC.

The newest member of the RealtimeUK team is Karinga Wells. Karinga joins us as a Character animator and has relocated from Canada. Previous to joining RealtimeUK Karinga worked as an animator for a number of studios in both Toronto and Vancouver and has produced animations for feature films including ‘Happily Never After’ and commercials for the likes of Virgin Mobile, AOL and Nickelodeon.

Tony Prosser, RealtimeUK’s Managing Director commented, “Andrew, Richard and Karinga each bring with them a wealth of knowledge and we are delighted to welcome them to the company. As we move forward we continue to work with a high calibre of international companies and progressively expand our team.”

My Pet Hotel 2

My Pet Hotel 2 is the refined pet care programme for demanding players. Owners of fish, budgies, guinea pigs, rabbits, cats, dogs, horses and their young will leave their animals with you and you will return them in excellent condition of course. The more success, the more opportunities!

Take the best care you can of your four-legged and feathered guests: feed them, keep their enclosures clean, play with them, get new toys for them, and ride the horses in the countryside.
You will build and expand your pet hotel based on your ideas in exciting scenarios in order to provide a good and protected place to stay for pets.

FEATURES:

• Speech recognition and touchpen interaction
• Player takes care of most popular pets and their young
• Highly detailed graphics on pets, objects, setting and movements

SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS:
Nintendo DS

Bust a Move Onto Xbox LIVE Arcade this Wednesday with "Boogie Bunnies!" and Catch Up on Highlights from CES

This week, players can achieve their dream of stardom with “Boogie Bunnies” when it shimmies its way onto Xbox LIVE® Arcade for Xbox 360™this Wednesday, 16th January at 9:00 a.m.

In “Boogie Bunnies,” an imaginative color matching 3D puzzle game from Sierra Online, players must use their wits to keep a herd of bunnies out of danger. “Boogie Bunnies” transports players to exotic locations where they complete extensive chain puzzles to trigger funky bunny dances. The game features Classic, Arcade or Endless game modes that players can join in for some furry fun either online or offline in two-player cooperative and competitive modes that the entire family will enjoy.

Highlights from CES

Coming hot off the heels of CES is the announcement that several electrifying titles will launch soon on Xbox LIVE Arcade, including “Poker Smash” from indie developer Void Star Creations. “Poker Smash” incorporates gameplay elements found in today’s most engrossing puzzle games and adds a poker twist to the mix. Combined with a stunning presentation, the “Poker Smash” puzzle package is a game not to be missed. Additionally, “Rez HD” from Q Entertainment will also be launching soon, which is the Xbox LIVE Arcade exclusive update to the classic shooter that has achieved almost mythical status among gamers for its truly unique entertainment experience. Also launching soon on Xbox LIVE Arcade is “Brain Challenge,” from Gameloft, which is Xbox LIVE Arcade’s first brain training game. “Brain Challenge” boosts brain activity and helps players develop stress-management skills in fun, innovative ways, thanks to a wide variety of games spanning across math, reasoning, memory, focus and logic. Finally, “Lode Runner” will be launching on Xbox LIVE Arcade later in 2008, and is a complete remake of the famous platform game. With free trial downloads for every game and over 100 games to choose from, Xbox LIVE Arcade offers something for every member of the family.

Where can I get “Boogie Bunnies” from?

Boogie Bunnies: available for 800 MS Points from 9:00 a.m., Wednesday 16th January 2008

It is rated 3+

More information is available at http://www.xbox.com/games/livearcade

S2 Games and iGames Partner for Launch of Savage 2: A Tortured Soul

Independent game developer S2 Games announced today a partnership with iGames, North America’s leading game center organization, for the launch of Savage 2: A Tortured Soul. The partnership will offer gamers a full Savage 2 account while playing at iGames affiliated game centers. Savage 2 will launch on January 16 and sell for $29.99 exclusively online via download from www.s2games.com.

The partnership with iGames allows gamers to create and maintain a full game account while playing at any iGames affiliated game center. This includes unlimited online play, participation in the Savage 2 Clan League, use of persistent items, and more. Additionally, iGames will be hosting preview events at select locations across North America and internationally where gamers can try Savage 2 absolutely free. For locations visit www.igames.org.

In addition to playing at iGames locations, gamers are able to download the Savage 2 game client for free from anywhere in the world and access several features including playing the offline single player tutorial, unlimited LAN play, access to the comprehensive replay database that catalogues each and every game, as well as sign-up for a demo account for up to 5 free hours of online play. Gamers who enjoy the game can simply upgrade through the game client or from the official website.

“Because the gameplay is so unique, building community is a major part of Savage 2,” said Marc DeForest, co-founder and lead designer of S2 Games. “We implemented an assortment of features in the design of the game that embraced the community and our partnership with iGames extends that commitment.”

“Creating a place where gamers can come together and play their favorite games is what iGames is all about,” said Mark Nielsen, iGames Executive Director. “Savage 2 is one of those unique games that comes along and truly embraces the community and gives gamers a reason to team up, create clans and really enjoy a unique gaming experience.”

For more information on Savage 2: A Tortured Soul, please visit http://savage2.s2games.com.

About Savage 2: A Tortured Soul
Savage 2: A Tortured Soul is the sequel to the critically acclaimed online multiplayer game Savage: A Battle for Newerth, which introduced gamers to the completely new Real Time Strategy Shooter (RTSS) gaming genre. Savage enabled players to opt for either the fast-paced, run-and-gun action of a first-person shooter (FPS) game – playing as a Warrior – or the more cerebral and tactical planning of a real-time strategy (RTS) game – playing as a Commander – working together as a team to defeat the enemy. Savage 2: A Tortured Soul builds upon the addicting, fast-paced gameplay of the original with additional squad-based features and enhanced role-playing game (RPG) elements which enable players to build their character level and abilities throughout the game.

About S2 Games
The core S2 Games team is an experienced group of developers from diverse backgrounds, including film, fine art, computer science and business. Through this mix of skill and experience, a synergy is born creating a fresh perspective in game design. The mission of the S2 Games team is to create the next level of multiplayer gaming. With the creation of the K2™ Engine, they have the freedom to take online multiplayer games to heights not reached before. For more information, visit the company’s website at www.s2games.com.

About iGames
iGames, Inc. offers a wide range of services to help independent and franchised game centers. iGames’ mission is to promote and develop the growth of the game center industry. Its services unite game centers with the goal of establishing them as the driving force enabling the interactive entertainment industry to become the number one form of entertainment around the world. iGames has established strong relationships with industry leaders to provide a wide variety of products, services and programs to member game centers and gamers including software licensing, hardware discounts, exclusive game premieres, tournaments, and game nights. Today the company counts well over 500 centers and 1.2 million gamers, initiating and co-organizing more than 200 events a year. To learn more about iGames, go to www.igames.org.

cdv Software Entertainment AG Continues Strategic Growth, Entering French Market

Continuing its successful expansion efforts, leading full-service interactive entertainment industry service provider, cdv Software Entertainment AG, today announced the acquisition of a 75% majority share of cdv Madrics Media S.A.S, a newly-founded firm, with options to acquire additional shares. Effective December 31, 2007, French-based cdv Madrics Media S.A.S. has successfully acquired all business operations of the highly successful Madrics Media France As part of the rapidly growing cdv Group; this newly acquired firm will be responsible for the marketing and distribution of games-related software and hardware, as well as accessories for France and the Benelux.

With this acquisition, cdv Software Entertainment AG is able to offer immediate access to another key European market, continuing its execution of strategic plans towards becoming a comprehensive, full-service distribution network for all of Europe and North America. cdv Madrics Media S.A.S. maintains excellent relationships with key retailers and partners in France and the Benelux, and is considered a leading distributor in the French-language interactive entertainment market. After additional recent acquisitions yielded significant expansion in Austria and Eastern Europe, the acquisition of this French firm represents a further step toward cdv’s ability to successfully offer services within the Pan European, US and Canadian markets.

“The synergy and the complimentary product and service portfolios of the two firms will allow the cdv Group to significant expand its presence and market share in the European interactive entertainment segment, as well as bolster the organization’s credibility as the leading, independent full-service provider,” said Christian Gloe, cdv Software Entertainment AG’s CEO. “This is a significant milestone for cdv Software Entertainment AG, and we are making excellent progress towards our stated goal of expanding our existing business segments, as well as entering new and complimentary areas of focus.”

“We are excited to be working with cdv Software Entertainment AG, and likewise the opportunities that this presents for us, our customers and our partners," said cdv Madrics Media S.A.S.’s President, Michaela Steidel. "cdv Madrics Media S.A.S. will now be able to offer its customers an even more comprehensive product portfolio – including a full assortment of already well-established hardware, and a selection of top-notch software titles. We are confident that this will permit us to significantly strengthen our market share and position in France and the Benelux.”


About cdv Software Entertainment AG
cdv Software Entertainment AG is the only publicly traded, independent full service provider for the games sector in Germany. As a leading sales and service partner for the entire games and software industry, cdv is excellently positioned on the global market thanks to branches focused on Germany, Switzerland and Austria (GSA), North America, Hungary, the Czech Republic and Slovakia as well as noted international partners. Alongside its strong product placement and international distribution logistics, cdv offers its customers a wide range of sales-promoting methods and an extensive, professional marketing and promotion service from a single source. The company, which was founded in 1989 and is headquartered in Bruchsal, Germany, has been on a steady growth course since its 2007 consolidation and is aiming in the medium term for a strong market position as one of the globally leading full service providers in the games sector. More information is available at http://www.cdv.de.

"Imperium Romanum": New battle screens published!

Today, Kalypso Media Group is publishing six battle screenshots of the upcoming city building highlight "Imperium Romanum".

Kalypso media UK are today please to publish six exclusive new screenshots of their forthcoming empire building strategy "Imperium Romanum".

While the hostile barbarians enter the combat, the player has to defend his goods and chattels and to show his tactical skills in order to defend against mighty attacks. Therefore, not only infantry, but also archers and horsemen (equites) are available.
However, the barbarians are well equiped with siege machines and will not hesitate to attack you in the middle of the night.

„Imperium Romanum", the sequel to the million seller "Glory of the Roman Empire", will be published by the end of February 2008 at a price of £29,99.

"Imperium Romanum" is already considered to be one of the top PC-strategy games of of 2008.

New Year changes at Eurogamer

Eurogamer Network today announces it has re-vamped its Eurogamer.net website and has promoted Tom Bramwell to the role of Editor.

The new site features a design update as well as several new useful features for readers. Eurogamer.net now includes easily navigable pages that detail the most exciting games that are coming soon and out now, helping make the site an indispensable buyer’s guide for games. The site changes also benefit readers of the other local Eurogamer websites, Eurogamer.de and Eurogamer.fr.

Alongside these changes, Tom Bramwell has been promoted to Editor of the site after working for the company for the past 8 years. His predecessor, Kristan Reed, will take the role of Editorial director of the site, whilst Ellie Gibson will fill Tom’s previous role of Deputy Editor.

Commenting on his appointment, Tom Bramwell says, "I am delighted to be taking over the website I have spent the best part of a decade helping to establish, write and operate. Kristan's unflinching passion for games and conveying what makes them special leaves me with a great deal to build on, and serving the people who play them will be at the absolute heart of the steps I take to maintain and better the incredible, sustained growth achieved under his leadership. I can't wait to get started."

Eurogamer.net’s new editorial director, Kristan Reed, added, "Tom's promotion is a logical evolution for the site, and one that marks the start of a new era for Eurogamer. He's someone that's become arguably the most creative and dedicated games journalist in the world, and his ideas to take the site forward give everyone a lot to look forward to. As for me, my new role allows me an opportunity to develop relationships and work closer with the people that actually make the games that we all get so heated about. That said, I'm not hanging up my keyboard, and will continue to contribute regular reviews and editorial as usual."

Alongside the new website design and staffing changes, the company has also completed its move into new premises in central Brighton. The new space will allow the business to continue its growth over the coming years. The company’s new address is:

Eurogamer Network Ltd
2nd Floor, Wenlock House
41-43 North Street
Brighton
BN1 1RH

The new office phone number is 01273 746 864.

Eurogamer.net is the UK’s most popular independent gaming site and will shortly be announcing its audited traffic figures for November 2007. The company also publishes popular video website Eurogamer TV and a social network for gamers, Eurogamers.

IGN.com Kicks Off 10-Year Anniversary With The Launch Of IGN Retro And Week-Long Editorial Retrospective

IGN.com (http://www.ign.com), the Web’s leading videogame and entertainment information destination, today announced the unveiling of its latest channel, IGN Retro, covering games and systems from the distant and not so distant past as IGN.com kick-offs a year-long celebration for its 10th anniversary. In addition, IGN will present a week-long retrospective of the past 10 years in gaming that will explore IGN.com’s history, from the games and franchises over the past decade to the editors who reviewed them.

The launch of IGN Retro (http://www.retro.ign.com) represents IGN’s first site dedicated to classic videogames. IGN Retro will cover gaming systems from the distant past - including the Atari 2600, Intellivision, Colecovision, and NES - as well as more recent platforms that aren't seeing active release schedules any longer such as the Dreamcast, GameCube and original Xbox systems.

“Having been with IGN.com since its inception, I am very proud of what the site has accomplished so far and very excited for the next 10 years,” said Peer Schneider, Senior Vice President and Publisher, IGN Entertainment. “IGN.com has become the leader in providing users with the latest in videogame news and exclusives, and as the videogame industry continues to evolve, IGN.com will continue to be on the forefront of the industry.”

In addition to the IGN Retro, starting today through Friday, January 18 on IGN.com, the site will feature variety of different editorial topics highlighting the evolution of videogames and IGN.com’s role in covering the industry for the past 10 years. Editorial features include:
Monday, January 14: “Press X: Ten Years in Gaming”
Examining the impact of the last 10 years in videogames
Tuesday, January 15: “The Many Faces of IGN: Where Are They Now?”
An update on many of IGN.com’s past editors
Wednesday, January 16: “Classic IGN Video Moments ”

A collection of cool and funny videos from throughout the years
Thursday, January 17: “IGN.com Turns 10 Podcast”

Editors, past and present, come together to talk about the anniversary
Friday, January 18: “IGN Video Documentary: The First 10 Years”

A three-part look at the decade of IGN.com with past and present editors

“As we hit the 10-year mark, it is important to take a look back at the moments in history that helped define IGN.com as an industry leader,” said Roy Bahat, General Manager of IGN Entertainment. “It is with great pride that we celebrate this company milestone with the millions of IGN.com users who have been with us since the beginning.”

January 12th, 1998 marks the official start of IGN as a branded Web site, and is the day N64.com officially changed its name to IGN64.com. Ten years later, IGN.com is a leading Internet media and services provider focused on the videogame and entertainment enthusiast markets. It is the Web’s number one videogame information destination and attracts one of the largest concentrated audiences of young males on the Internet.


About IGN Entertainment
IGN Entertainment, a unit of Fox Interactive Media, Inc., is a leading Internet media and services provider focused on the videogame and entertainment enthusiast markets. Collectively, IGN’s properties reached more than 30 million unique users worldwide in the month of November 2007, according to Internet audience measurement firm comScore Media Metrix. IGN’s network of videogame-related properties (IGN.com, GameSpy, FilePlanet, TeamXbox, Direct2Drive and others), is the Web’s number one videogame information destination and attracts one of the largest concentrated audiences of young males on the Internet. IGN also owns and operates the popular movie-related website, Rotten Tomatoes and one of the leading male lifestyle Websites, AskMen.com. In addition, IGN provides technology for online game play in videogames. IGN is headquartered in the San Francisco Bay Area, with offices throughout the U.S. and in Montreal.