iZ3D Sponsors 3D Monitor Prize for the CGArena.com Ancient Times 3D Digital Art Challenge

iZ3D Sponsors 3D Monitor Prize for the CGArena.com Ancient Times 3D Digital Art Challenge

One Talented Graphic Artist Can Win the Grand Prize of an iZ3D Monitor Plus Four 3D Digital Art Software Packages Valued at $7323; Second Place is valued at $1164.

iZ3D, LLC, designer, developer, and marketer of advanced 3D visualization systems, is pleased to announce that its 22-inch widescreen 3D monitor is among the five Grand Prize sponsors for the CGArena.com “Ancient Times” 3D Challenge. The contest began on February 15, 2008 and ends April 28, 2008. Contestants are to create a 3D image that addresses any city, culture, war, mystery etc. in the theme of Ancient Times.

“The commercial 3D image quality of the iZ3D monitor is an ideal solution for graphic artists to view their 3D art in actual 3D as they’re creating it. Many digital artists are embracing the new 3D graphics and video software programs in response to the growing 3D trend. So why design 3D objects on a flat 2D monitor? Our monitors offer smart capabilities so they can easily hot switch between 2D and 3D viewing to see their work in either dimension,” remarked Thomas Striegler, CEO of iZ3D, LLC.
Contest entries must be based on a time period that is at least 60 years old, but contestants can show time period from a current viewpoint. The challenge is a WIP (Work in Progress) Challenge. The purpose of a work in progress challenge is that everyone involved learns from the experience. The community offers critiques and everyone benefits from the discussions. Each challenger is required to regularly submit Work In Progress (WIP) images, from initial concept sketches to the final render.

"CGArena.com firmly believes in the intensity 3D graphics can bring to the viewer. Adding the iZ3D monitor to our other four 3D software prizes shows how popular designing in 3D has become, commented Ashish Rastogi, CEO of CGArena.com. “This is our 14th challenge contest. Our contests have consistently grown in size and there are already over 110 entries in our current challenge,” he added.

The iZ3D 22" monitor offers the first S-3D drivers to be compatible with popular dual output cards, including the NVIDIA GeForce 8 Series and the ATI FireGL V3600 workstation graphics accelerator. These drivers also are optimized to take advantage of Intel’s latest Core 2 Duo and Intel Core 2 Quad processor technologies. iZ3D also features drivers that support Microsoft DirectX 8 and 9 graphics in both Windows XP and Microsoft Windows Vista.

iZ3D developed this unique technology to create an adjustable 3D environment without causing eyestrain, spatial disorientation, or headaches. In 3D mode, viewers can see bright, sharp 3D images and video simply by wearing a pair of iZ3D passive polarized glasses.

Most current PC’s equipped with a dual-output video card easily power the unit. Specifications include: 1680 x 1050 resolution; up to 170-degree 3D viewing angle; 5ms response time; 700:1 contrast ratio; and 16.7-million colors. The iZ3D 22” widescreen, 3D gaming monitor is available now via newegg.com or the iZ3D.com website for $799.00.

Running With Scissors Previews POSTAL III At Game Developers Conference

Running With Scissors Previews POSTAL III At Game Developers Conference

Next-Gen Edition of Classic Franchise Elicits Raves fromVideo Game Press and Mainstream Publishers

Running With Scissors (RWS) broke with tradition this year and took a meeting room at the Game Developers Conference (GDC) in order to showcase the first public viewing of a demo for the long-awaited POSTAL III, “just like normal, loveable developers,” declared RWS CEO and world class charmer, Vince Desi.

POSTAL III running on Valve’s SOURCE engine was presented as an Xbox 360 demo, with both major and mid level publishers expressing strong interest in acquiring the World Wide rights to the game.

This time out, however, both publishers and the press enjoyed and respected the franchise’s history and durability, as well POSTAL III’s ongoing joy at being a first-rate action adventure as well as a sharp-witted comedic expression aimed directly down the throat of Political Correctness. “This is no longer a teens-only zone,” Desi explained in reference to the video game marketplace. “And mainstream companies were willing to look at POSTAL III objectively, with the major publishers strongly supporting the idea of a PS3 sku in addition to the 360 and PC editions.”

The game press was similarly impressed. Brad Hilderbrand from WorthPlaying.com declared: “"POSTAL III promises to be one of the most twisted, hilarious, and depraved games I've ever seen... and I can't wait to get my hands on it."

"They say the demo is about 1% of the finished product... and it's STILL funny,” wrote Abbie Heppe on J2Games.com. “You can play [as] a model citizen, a somewhat worse citizen or a truly awful one. However the game penalizes you for making blatantly amoral choices. Pedestrians, cops... even the army will try to stop you if you become a one-man killing machine. AWESOME."

Other journalists, including Patrick Shaw from Gamepro and Chris Faylor, editor at shacknews.com, agreed with that assessment. And for the first time in its notorious ten year history, “the world’s most dangerous video game company” was given props for producing a game that promises not only the expected assault on the bastions of political correctness but a game that is state of the art in terms of both design and execution.

“This GDC for RWS was different,” Desi marveled. “It was inspiring! We showed the world of publishers, press, and, most importantly, gamers the console premier of POSTAL III. It has been an uphill battle since the press and others have consistently misrepresented the franchise’s content. POSTAL was, is and always will be an Action Comedy Adventure! Ten years of fan support, over one million copies sold, and now POSTAL III is running on the Xbox 360. Do I hear PS3?”

Xbox LIVE wins Arcade Awards For Castlevania: Symphony Of The Night

Other Ocean Interactive Wins Xbox LIVE Arcade Awards For Castlevania: Symphony Of The Night

Prince Edward Island Studio Begins Legacy of High-Quality Award-Winning Games with its First Title

Other Ocean Interactive, the leading Prince Edward Island-based videogame development studio, announced today that Castlevania: Symphony of Night has won two Xbox Live Arcade Awards. The title developed by Other Ocean and published by Konami Digital Entertainment won awards for Best Classic Game, and Highest-Rated Game from Microsoft at this year's Game Developers Conference in San Francisco.

"To win 2 out of 10 of the awards with a single title in the inaugural year of the Xbox Live Arcade Awards is an honor and a testament to the hard work and commitment to quality of our team," said Deirdre Ayre, studio head of Other Ocean Interactive. "Creating the game in Prince Edward Island signals the growing influence of Atlantic Canada within the game development industry as we continue to attract top-tier talent to the region to work on marquee titles."

Castlevania: Symphony of the Night for Xbox Live Arcade was Ocean Interactive's first released title, and has already received Editor's Choice Awards from IGN, TeamXbox, and Game Chronicles. The game had an unprecedented 100% of its reviews scoring over 80% on both metacritic.com and gamerankings.com. It had 23 reviews featured on Gamerankings.com with 13 of the 23 reviews scoring the game above 90 percent for an average of 93%.

Gameloft Launches "Bubble Bash" video game for Apple iPod

Gameloft Launches "Bubble Bash" for iPod

Gameloft, a leading publisher and developer of video games for mobile phones, today announced that "Bubble Bash", a tropical island puzzle game is now available on the iTunes Store (www.itunes.com) for players to purchase and download on the new iPod nano, iPod classic and fifth generation iPod. "Bubble Bash" is available immediately for purchase for $4.99.

“'Bubble Bash' has been a massive hit for Gameloft and we’re thrilled to bring this fun, exciting puzzle game to the iPod,” explains Gonzague de Vallois, senior vice president of publishing, Gameloft. “The success of the game goes to show how original titles can really enhance and create a fresh experience in gaming for iPod owners who seek entertainment on the go.”

"Bubble Bash" has been one of Gameloft's most popular original titles, joining the million mark club. iPod owners can now join characters, Malia and Kale in their quest for treasure in an island paradise. Players can explore a vibrant tropical island, from the beach to the rainforest, in this exciting puzzle game. The game lets players toss multi-colored bubbles into the sky to pop three or more of the same color by simply aiming and firing into the cluster before it drops or time runs out. "Bubble Bash" is guaranteed to captivate audiences as it features more than 100 evolving levels that lead to new treasures. Players also face challenging opponents such as angry monkeys, spiders and parrots that try to keep you from reaching your goal. Bubble Bash is an ideal game for the iPod and will appeal to fans of all ages.

LOST PLANETTM: EXTREME CONDITION FOR PLAYSTATION 3 SHIPS

THE ULTIMATE COOL: LOST PLANETTM: EXTREME CONDITION FOR PLAYSTATION 3TM SHIPS TO RETAIL TODAY

Capcom Entertainment, a leading worldwide developer and publisher of video games, today announced that Lost Planet™: Extreme Condition, the riveting sci-fi action shooter for PLAYSTATION®3, has begun shipping to retail stores across North America. Lost Planet carries a suggested retail price of $39.99 and is rated “T” for Teen by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB).

Lost Planet is an epic gaming masterpiece combining a gripping single player campaign and intense multiplayer modes. Lost Planet contains sophisticated visuals, with an unmatched level of detail as advanced light sourcing is used to ensure a realistic presentation that enhances every explosion, smoke and particle effect. Enormous world maps unfold as players battle hostile creatures in blistering weather conditions across vast snowfields and blazing volcanic areas either on foot or in armed, robotic Vital Suits.

Lost Planet: Extreme Condition for the PLAYSTATION®3 system will release with a number of specific features not previously available in retail editions of the 360 or PC versions of the game:

PS3 Specific Features:

• All 16 previously released multiplayer maps (including the extra downloadable content from Xbox LIVE) included on the disc.
• New unlockable characters for single and multiplayer mode, including Frank West from Dead Rising, Megaman, and others.

Lost Planet also features:

• Intense multiplayer modes with support for up to 16 players online.
• Frenetic action - Lost Planet is a fast-paced third-person shooter with all the depth, intrigue and intensity of a science fiction classic.

Connect to gamers around the world via PLAYSTATION®Network and participate in a variety of cooperative and versus battles with up to 16 players:

Elimination - It’s every snow pirate for themselves in this death match mode where the victorious are rewarded for the most points earned.

Team Elimination – You’re only as good as your teammates so strategy and cooperation is key in eliminating the opposing side.

Post Grab - Teams are tasked with capturing and holding as many Posts as possible.
Fugitive - One player is assigned as the “Fugitive”, and he or she will earn points for various actions (staying alive, killing enemies, capturing Posts). Dying deducts points and winning is determined when a maximum total is reached or when the score ticks down to zero.
• Foot and robotic Vital Suit-based gameplay – Command high powered VS and weapons not only to help players traverse the treacherous terrain, but to eliminate enemies that lie ahead. Strategically switch between VS and on foot gameplay to best face each situation and challenge.
• Vast environments - Snowstorms, arctic winds, towering buildings and mountains of ice are all stunningly realized as battles occur above and below ground, creating a truly immersive and cinematic event of epic proportions.
• A premier team of developers – The creators of the critically acclaimed Onimusha® and Devil May Cry® series have come together to create the expansive world of Lost Planet.

For more information on Lost Planet, please visit the official site at Lost Planet or join the growing community of fans at Lost Planet Community

Disney mobile - CRITTER CRUNCH WINS BEST GAME AWARD AT IGF MOBILE & CELLPHONE

CRITTER CRUNCH WINS BEST GAME AWARD AT IGF MOBILE

Disney Mobile Studios is delighted to announce that Critter Crunch has been awarded Best Game of 2007 at the Independent Games Festival (IGF) Mobile, held last week in San Francisco as part of the 2008 Game Developers Conference.

Developed by Capybara Games, and published in Europe by the Walt Disney associate company, Critter Crunch is a mobile original, which is only now being converted for next-generation consoles. Initially released last August, it achieved critical acclaim for its originality and absorbing gameplay.


“Critter Crunch is a superb game which exemplifies the best values for mobile play: beautifully designed with great graphics, easy to pick up and play and yet endlessly challenging,” says Sunil Gunderia, VP Mobile EMEA, Walt Disney Internet Group.

While the IGF, which aims to encourage innovation in game development, is now in its 10th year, this is the first year that the festival has made awards specifically for mobile games.

Games Grads is a career fair designed for all students on computer games degree courses.

It’s your chance to get in front of some of the leading companies and studios in games development to find out what vacancies are on offer and show them you’ve got what it takes to be part of their team.

Some of the biggest names will be there, all looking to recruit the talent of tomorrow - people like you.

It’s free to attend Games Grads and this year, we've added a number of seminars that'll run throughout the day, where you can get practical advice on how to get into the industry and what to expect when you're there. So make sure you grab your opportunity!

Whether it’s an informal chat with a developer or publisher, or the chance to show off your portfolio – make sure you grab this opportunity and come along to Games Grads. This one day could make all the difference to your future!

Why not take a look at the type of companies you can meet at Games Grads.

SOUTH
Thursday 24 April 2008
London

11.00 – 16.30

Visit the Games Grad site here

NORTH
Tuesday 29 April 2008
Manchester

11.00 – 16.30

2K Sports Puts Fans in Touch with the Action in Major League Baseball 2K8 Fantasy All-Stars for Nintendo DS

2K Sports Puts Fans in Touch with the Action in Major League Baseball 2K8 Fantasy All-Stars for Nintendo DS

Never before has a baseball video game been so fun and addictively interactive

2K Sports, the sports publishing label of Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. (NASDAQ: TTWO), in partnership with Deep Fried Entertainment, today officially announced Major League Baseball® 2K8 Fantasy All-Stars, an exciting new baseball title that will put fans into the action like never before. Available exclusively for Nintendo DS, Major League Baseball 2K8 Fantasy All-Stars will offer fans of all ages a wildly fun experience featuring starting lineups from all 30 Major League Baseball clubs, a variety of exhibition and tournament modes, All-Star training mini-games, along with fantasy-themed baseball stadiums.

Utilizing the functionality of the Nintendo DS touch screen, Major League Baseball 2K8 Fantasy All-Stars will provide fans the unique opportunity to control the power and technique of their swings and the speed and accuracy of their pitch by performing specific gestures and intuitive usage of the stylus. Fielding, baserunning and other controls will also utilize the DS touch screen, as players drag and trace lines to execute these specific baseball actions.

Adding to the addictive gameplay experience, players will also have the ability to obtain special “power ups” to complete incredible batting, pitching, and fielding performances. Players can force their opponents to chase after the “chicken ball” that runs away from fielders once it’s on the ground, or confuse them with a “crazy ball” that takes an unpredictable flight path. Pitchers can throw amazing new pitches such as a “super splitter” that splits the ball into two pieces to confuse the batter or a “fireball” that screams over the plate at rocket speeds while engulfed in flames. Fielders can join in the power up fun with the “brick wall” that causes a wall to instantly rise out of the ground to stop the ball in its tracks or the “super jump” that allows them to jump incredibly high toward the ball in flight.

“It’s exciting to continue expanding our wide number of baseball offerings with Major League Baseball 2K8 Fantasy All-Stars,” said Christoph Hartmann, president of 2K. “With all new fun and innovative gameplay features, fans will now have the great opportunity to step up to the plate and enjoy playing baseball like never before.“

“We’re proud to offer fans a unique and interactive baseball experience on Nintendo DS that is both fun and appealing for all ages,” said Brenda Bailey, chief operating officer of Deep Fried Entertainment. “With Spring Training™ right around the corner, Major League Baseball 2K8 Fantasy All-Stars comes at the perfect time to put players in touch with the action on a new level.”

Some of the fun and exciting features included in Major League Baseball 2K8 Fantasy All-Stars include:

• Unique Interactive Experience - All aspects of the game will be controlled on the Nintendo DS touch screen, including batting, pitching, fielding and baserunning.
  
• Exciting Gameplay Modes - Exhibition mode will allow players to quickly choose their favorite teams so they can immediately jump into the intense baseball action, while Fantasy Pennant mode will offer various tournaments to compete in. All-Star Training will assist players in learning the fundamental DS control functions wrapped up in a variety of fun and challenging mini-games.
  
• All-Star Lineups - Players can create their own unique baseball teams by choosing from the different starting lineups and putting together their favorite All-Stars.
  
• Uniquely Themed Stadiums - Set in extreme environments that portray the diverse North American environment, uniquely themed stadiums are in locations ranging from the Everglades in Florida to the Frozen North, locations that can only be mastered by the best.
  
• Multi-player - Supports two-player DS Wireless and Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection. For added competitiveness, Major League Baseball 2K8 Fantasy All-Stars will utilize DS Wireless and Nintendo Wi-Fi Connections so players can go head-to-head in intense worldwide multi-player gaming.
  

Major League Baseball 2K8 Fantasy All-Stars, developed by Deep Fried Entertainment and published by 2K Sports, will be available exclusively for Nintendo DS this April and is rated E for Everyone by the ESRB. For more information about this title, please visit: www.2Ksports.com.

Mobile multiplayer game Kodo from Jadestone wins IGF Mobile Cellphone award

Mobile multiplayer game Kodo from Jadestone wins IGF Mobile award

Swedish developer Jadestone last week won the Achievement in Art award at the Independent Games Festival (IGF) Mobile, held at the 2008 Game Developers Conference in San Francisco.

The original mobile game Kodo was released in early 2006 and was awarded as a highly original puzzle game. Up to 8 players can compete, using one button each on the same mobile phone, in a race to eat the others before becoming eaten yourself.

For the new version of the game, Jadestone decided to not only move from isometric 2D to full 3D, but to really push the limits of mobile graphics. Given truly state-of-the-art tools, the visual artists went wild and took a quantum leap with the design of the Kodos and their world.

Tommy Palm, designer of Kodo, comments: “Over the next year, a far richer graphical experience will become available in mobile phones, approaching the 3D quality of PCs. Kodo represents an early example of the kinds of experience mobile players will be able to enjoy. We’re very happy and proud that our work on Kodo has been recognized by the IGF Mobile jury”.

Jadestone designers started the development of the game on PC emulators and then moved on to prototype hardware featuring the OpenGL ES 2.0 graphics platform. As phone models with large screens gain momentum, it is expected that 3D hardware acceleration will gradually become the norm for rich media phones.

League gaming tournaments - Counter-Strike: Source, Call of Duty 4, Pro Evolution Soccer 08 and Unreal Tournament 3.

Omega Sektor Launches The OSPL GAMING LEAGUE FOR PRO, SEMI-PRO AND CASUAL GAMERS

Omega Sektor today unveils plans for its new Omega Sektor Professional League and details of the League’s official website.

The OSPL comprises league gaming tournaments around four games - Counter-Strike: Source, Call of Duty 4, Pro Evolution Soccer 08 and Unreal Tournament 3. The leagues and tournaments are open to gamers of all skill levels, and sign-up is on a first-come first- served basis. A number of individual pro gamers and team pro gamers have already signed up for the tournaments. Registration is available at www.theospl.com

The website will also list all leagues and table positions, along with regular tournaments updates, forum discussions, and official rules on playing the games.

Omega Sektor will offer league gamers ongoing spot prizes and rewards for most outstanding displays of gaming talent, including most number of kills in a season. This will allow teams and individuals of all gaming abilities to be in with a chance of winning throughout the league season.

The OSPL is being headed up by pro gamer and ex games journalist Richard Lewis, known throughout the online gaming community as Gonzo. Richard comments, "I'm confident that the new way we're approaching the league format will give something for gamers at all levels. It has been great so far to see how many people have signed up and I'm sure the league is going to grow and grow. We have a committed team at the OSPL, all of whom are passionate about gaming, so we fully expect this to be a success with the support we're receiving from players and sponsors alike.