Naval simulation game Ship Simulator 2008 add-on New Horizons

GOLD Announcement for true-to-life naval simulation game Ship Simulator 2008 add-on: New Horizons

Leading computer software publisher Lighthouse Interactive and Dutch developer VSTEP are proud to announce that the next incarnation for their successful Ship Simulator franchise: the official Ship Simulator 2008 add-on: New Horizons has gone gold.

The Dutch duo confirmed the eagerly awaited game is ready to set sail on retail shelves on the 4th of April, 2008 in the UK and Scandinavia. Release dates for other European countries and North-America are to be determined. This new edition to the popular franchise is packed with upgrades and is Windows Vista compatible.

Erik Schreuder, CEO of Lighthouse Interactive: "The Ship Simulator series has already generated a large community of Ship Sim fans. They will now be able to extend their naval experience with the official Ship Simulator 2008 Add-on: New Horizons. There are so many improved elements to the game that make this a challenging true-to-life experience – everyone interested in simulator games should really check this out."

VSTEP's CTO Pjotr van Schothorst: "After months of intensive development and testing, we are proud about New Horizons reaching gold status. With its brand new features, improved visuals and added gameplay options, New Horizons provides an exciting addition to Ship Simulator 2008 and will surprise Simulation fans worldwide. New Horizons is the next step in creating an even more immersive experience for our Ship Simulator fans."

Become Napoleon And Conquer Europe In New PC Game

Become Napoleon And Conquer Europe In New PC Game

TRAVEL BACK IN TIME AND COMMAND THE MOST FAMOUS HISTORICAL BATTLES OF THE 19TH CENTURY

Napoleon’s Campaigns is an engaging battle strategy game from Ascaron launching in April 2008. Take on the role of the infamous leader Napoleon Bonaparte to experience renowned battles of the 19th century in complete historical accuracy.

For immersive realism, Napoleon’s Campaigns has been developed based on extensive historical records. The different battle campaigns take place in chronological order, starting with Austerlitz and Trafalgar in1805, through other famous battles such as Jena in 1806 and the Danube in 1809, ending with Napoleon’s final defeat at Waterloo in 1815.

There are more than 1,500 historical figures in Napoleon’s Campaigns, each with their own specific character traits. At Waterloo, Wellington’s stern countenance will mean a meticulously organised army, while during battle at Leipzig, Blücher’s decisive movements and sheer determination help to create a tactical and brutal conflict.

Napoleon’s Campaigns features over 1,000 different types of army units, including infantry, cavalry, cannons, warships, spies, doctors, partisans and engineers. These have been accurately recreated, from the type of formations they take during battle right down to the smallest detail of their uniforms.

Genuine political scenarios and military strategies add to the accuracy of Napoleon’s Campaigns. Geographical borders and topography are represented on a map based on real 3D satellite projection, so visual effects and gameplay are as realistic as possible. If an army is ordered to march from one city to another, it may take a day if the land is flat with roads, but it could take 5 days over mountains with a rough terrain.

Change history

Napoleon’s Campaigns also features an exciting bonus level with the chance to change history as Napoleon wins at Waterloo and achieves his biggest dream; invading England.

To play the demo of Napoleon’s Campaigns visit www.napoleons-campaigns.com

Fast facts:
Publisher: Ascaron Entertainment / Nobilis
Web: www.ascaron.com
Developer: AGEOD
Release date: 11th April 2008
PEGI: 3+
Format: PC
Genre: Battle Strategy

Guitar Hero On Tour Explodes onto Nintendo DS This Summer

Guitar Hero On Tour Explodes onto Nintendo DS This Summer

New Game Introduces Revolutionary Guitar Hero Guitar Grip Peripheral for Anytime, Anywhere Guitar Hero Gameplay

For the first time, handheld gamers will have the freedom to unleash their inner rock star anywhere, anytime with Activision upcoming Guitar Hero: On Tour for Nintendo DSTM. The game will deliver a unique Guitar Hero experience by challenging handheld gamers to rock out and prove their shredding skills on the most diverse set list of master tracks ever offered in a Guitar Hero game, including classic rock, alternative and pop favorites such as Nirvana, OK Go and No Doubt.

The game will be packaged with a revolutionary Guitar HeroTM Guitar GripTM peripheral that fits snugly into the DS and a unique Guitar Hero pick-stylus that brings a new dimension to handheld gaming and the core gameplay that defines Guitar Hero. Guitar Hero: On Tour has been designed specifically for the DS platform and will offer the DS audience an all-new compelling music experience.

"We are continuing to introduce new and exciting ways to bring music to audiences with Guitar Hero," said Dusty Welch, head of publishing for Activision/RedOctane. "The Guitar Hero Guitar Grip redefines how games can be played on handheld systems and the integration of the microphone and touch screen gameplay on the DS, further illustrates Guitar Hero's leadership in delivering the most unique and creative quality hardware and software on the market."

"We're designing Guitar Hero: On Tour from the ground up to take full advantage of the DS platform by integrating signature gameplay with fresh new content and DS specific features," said Karthik Bala, CEO of Vicarious Visions. "We've taken all of our learnings on the DS platform to date and pushed it to the limits to create a truly innovative Guitar Hero experience."

Guitar Hero: On Tour continues to build on the franchise's signature easy-to-play, yet difficult to master addictive gameplay, and now lets players take their experience on the road wherever they go. Players use the Guitar Hero pick-stylus on the touch screen to strum their favorite tunes and create their rock 'n' roll legacy in career mode.

Fans can also join together to play co-op mode using a local wireless network, or battle each other in a Guitar Duel using new Battle Items unique to the DS platform. For example, players must blow into the microphone to extinguish a pyrotechnics effects gone wrong, or use the touch screen to autograph a crazed fan's shirt in the middle of their set.

Featuring five unlockable new venues, the game lets players personalize their experience by choosing the color of their axe of choice, selecting to play as one of six characters - two of which are all new and exclusive to Guitar Hero: On Tour - and outfitting their guitarist in numerous styles.

Guitar Hero: On Tour is being developed by Vicarious Visions for the Nintendo DS. The game is rated "E 10+" (Everyone 10 and older) by the ESRB and is scheduled for release this summer. For more information, visit www.guitarheroontour.com.

Messerschmitt Bf109 - Spitfire's deadly foe now available as a boxed Flight Sim plug-in.

Messerschmitt Bf109

An iconic aircraft from WWII reproduced to award winning detail for Flight Simulator X and 2004. Includes F, G and K series in dozens of aircraft and paints scheme variations.

Label: Flight1
Developer: Flight Replicas
Genre: Flight Simulator Expansion
Format: PC CD-ROM
Release: December 2007
SRP: £29.99 / €39.95

“Add smell and some vibration and you would think that the simulated Bf109 was real!”
Gordon Page, Warbird Pilot and Messerchmitt owner

“The 109 is stunning in the air and just demands to have everything it will give extracted from it, which is one hell of a lot. I have seldom flown an FS plane which has had such a convincing flight model and also been so much fun to handle… One of the most fantastic simulations I have had the privilege to review. Just get out and buy it.”
Flightsim.com Armchair Aviator Award

Strike first, getaway fast!

The Messerschmitt Bf109 was flown by the three highest scoring fighter aces of WWII, outperforming both Spitfires and Hurricanes in vertical climbs and dives.

The iconic foe of the Allied air forces in WWII, the Messerschmitt Bf-109 was the staple fighter of the Luftwaffe. It scored more air-to-air victories in WWII than any other and was produced in greater quantities than any other fighter aircraft in history, with over 31,000 built.

This superb package brings together F, G and K types of the 109 in a vast array of model variants. But each shares the same thing, a meticulous attention to detail: the start-up sounds are totally authentic, the pilot is accurately clothed and even prop blades alter their angle according to prop settings.

Match this with incredible 3D modelling, including the gauges in the virtual cockpit and a flight model authenticated by warbird pilots and you have a classic you will want to fly again and again!

Features

• Virtual Cockpit panels feature authentic configurations and gauges unique to each of the sub-variants of the F, G and K series. There are working ‘Revi’ gun sights (that fold out of the way when not in use) and 3D gauges for smooth realism, even when zoomed right in.
  
• Accurate (and challenging!) ground handling characteristics. Like the real thing the Bf109 requires real skill to taxi, take-off and land with the accurate flight model and ground handling (reportedly as many 109s were lost to accidents as were shot down!) The aircraft even handles differently in the air when the drop tanks are released.
  
• Everything is detailed and reproduced authentically, from the shape of the canopies on the aircraft of notable German aces, to accurate pilot flight suits and helmets.
  
• Aircraft feature working Fletter tabs on ailerons and rudder, functioning coolant flaps and even propeller blades that alter their angle with prop settings. Inside you get the MW emergency boost system reproduced along with all the other systems and cockpit items.
  
• 100% authentic Bf109 engine sounds. Hear the distinctive screech of the starter motor through to the deep rumble of the 1500hp inverted Daimler V12.
  
• Finally, if the dozens of variants included are not enough, an included paint kit will let you reproduce your own favourite 109 from history!
  

The boxed edition includes both the Flight Simulator 2004 and Flight Simulator X versions of the software with an extensive printed manual.

System Requirements
MICROSOFT FLIGHT SIMULATOR X or 2004
Windows – Windows XP or Vista
Processor – 2.8 GHz
Memory – 2 Gb RAM
Hard Drive – 200 Mb free
Video Card – 256 Mb

Salvation - An update on Black Wing Foundation's Source-engined action game

New update and short QA

First of all, the team would like to thank your for the interest and all the feedback left at numerous gaming web portals and sites, both negative and positive. Your opinion helps us to see our drawbacks and add stones to the concrete of the game to make it stronger and better. We care about your feedback, ake conclusions and do our best with the game.

Now, a short QA following your feedback:

Q: Source seems to be rather old hat for now to develop a project that is going to be released Q2 2009.
A: That statement has some grounding to it, but. The game engine choice depends on specific game features planned, solutions you apply to get that final picture and atmosphere (whatever they are – end effect is key) and the project structure itself. Taking all the factors into account, our choice fell on Source, and we evaluated a few technologies. Still though, for example, we signed an exchange program with Emergent (Gamebryo 2.3.) for one of the Salvation spin-offs planned, as Source wouldn't fit for that game. I think you get our point here.

Q: It looks like a HL2 mod!
A: It's really the early in-game screenshots. If you want us to cheat you by howing fake screens, we can do it, just tell us =). Though we prefer to show the rogress on every stage of the game development and have a doze of your influenceto the process. You can check new screens in today's update. They are partially a esult of your comments, btw.

Q: The story seems interesting but it's kind of fuzzy and description on the site born more questions than give answers.
A: Guys, we have more than a year to go with the game, so be sure we'll shed ome more light on the story. For obvious reasons, cannot spoil you the whole cript:).

Q: They have replicated Christ?! You'll burn in a hell for that game - infidels!
A: It's not as easy as it seems at the first glance; - game story is much more omplicated. C'mon, think wider than that:) We are not a bunch of like Satan-worshipers or something, it's all a devotion to science fiction (a little bit daring maybe) and last thing we would like to do is to hurt somebody's feelings.

Q: Ergh… how about web-site in Russian?
A: Check the site at Monday! We also promise proofread English texts)

So, today we bring you a batch of new screenshots from ome of Eastern European locations and one of the compositions from official game soundtrack – "Magenta Dawn". Like we said before – feel free to shoot your comments. 

We will follow them and make our conclusions.

Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War – Soulstorm and Juiced 2: Hot Import Nights live on GamersGate

Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War – Soulstorm and Juiced 2: Hot Import Nights live on GamersGate

Leading PC digital distribution platform GamersGate announced today that Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War – Soulstorm and Juiced 2: Hot Import Nights for PC are available for direct download on http://www.gamersgate.com.

Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War - Soulstorm is the third and final expansion to the genre defining and critically acclaimed RTS, Dawn of War. In Soulstorm, two new armies are introduced, raising the total number of playable armies in Dawn of War to an unprecedented count of nine while also adding additional units to all existing factions. The revolutionary meta-game that was introduced in Dark Crusade is further expanded to an interplanetary scale, allowing players to battle across a star system. Combined with its sister products, Soulstorm makes Dawn of War the largest and most detailed RTS ever released.



Juiced 2: Hot Import Nights (HIN) evolves the current street racing scene, letting players experience the culture of the real-life HIN tour, the nation's largest lifestyle custom car show in an intense racing experience. Featuring track and drift racing at real-world locations around the globe, next-gen AI and unparalleled vehicle customization, Juiced 2: HIN brings street racing to life, allowing players to test their skills at live street racing events against a back-drop of DJs, models and musicians. Groundbreaking new features include addictive drift/powersliding races and "Driver DNA" that tracks gamers' personal driving traits. These profiles, along with the profiles of select celebrities will be available for download across all online gaming systems. Racing developer Juice Games has evolved the game-play that revolutionized online racing, giving players the power to create their car, assemble their crew and put it all on the line in intense pink slip and crew races. Gamers will also be able to bet cash on each event, bringing a gambling element to the game that greatly increases the importance of each race.

To find out more about Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War – Soulstorm on GamersGate http://www.gamersgate.com.

To find out more aboutJuiced 2: Hot Import Nights on GamersGate, http://www.gamersgate.com.

Urban Rivals – Search for an Art Star contest launched

Urban Rivals – Search for an Art Star!

Urban Rivals, the world’s leading online trading card game announce a search for artistic talent in the USA and Great Britain. Character artists are invited to submit one character card to enter, with a freelance design contract up for grabs in each country.

Boostr, the Company behind Urban Rivals announced today their ‘Search for an Art Star’. Two freelance contracts are available for a talented artist in the USA and Great Britain.

Urban Rivals launched in 2006 and has attracted over 1.75 million player registrations. The game involves battling other players online to level up and evolve your character cards, unlocking new abilities and powers. There are over 300 character cards available with four new cards being released every second Friday.

The game is set in the chaotic “Clint City” and the characters in game are divided among clans, each with its own distinct identity expressed through both design and their ultimate mission in the city.

Nicolas Caris, Head of Marketing and Editor-in-chief of the Urban Rivals online comic commented, “We’ve experienced good growth in the USA and UK and we need local character artists that can reach a 14-25, male audience with character designs they will identify with.” Urban Rivals revels in a unique artistic style through both the website at: www.urban-rivals.com And recently, the world of Clint City was bought to life in comic form with the launch of the biweekly online comic: www.urban-rivals.com/comics

Nicolas continued

“Its important artists understand the relevance of the clans and the design styles as well as find the right characters to fit into their chosen clan and within Clint City itself. So good luck to all entrants and we hope to be working with two designers in the near future.”

Who can enter:

• Entrants will most likely already have a career in design and would like to either expand career experience or take on freelance work to supplement their career.
• Or very talented student or junior wanting to add to their portfolio.

How to enter:

• One character card design to be submitted via email by 31st May 2008.
• All character card designs to be emailed to artstar@urban-rivals.com
• Formats acceptable for submission JPEG, PNG and GIF.
• Max file size for submission 500K.
• Character card design must show at least one character evolution.
• Character card design must be based on existing clans.
• Submissions must be in colour.
• All artwork submissions remain the intellectual property of the artist.

Further details about Urban Rivals ‘Search for an Art Star’ or two, can be found online at:
http://www.urban-rivals.com/

Numen: Contest of Heroes PC video game Screenshots

Numen: Contest of Heroes Screenshots

Gods (all the 9 gods featured in Numen: Contest of Heroes) were generous to us and presented a set of fresh (right from the development field) screenshots. Shot daily and nightly, these assets offer us a great opportunity to get an attentive look at the game visuals as they did become brighter and more compelling.



Harpies, giant spiders, ugly ghouls and other brilliant representatives of the bestiary created with love and care, courtesy of Cinemax, game development studio, are all at your disposal so that you can get a more comprehensive view and impression of what was cooking in ancient Greece and is in the works in our today’s world.

Sony's newest PlayStation 3 to allow downloads

The next update of Sony Corp.'s PlayStation 3 console, slated late this month, will include features that let users download games, video and ring tones.

Sony said Thursday the system update will add Blu-ray Disc Profile 2.0, or BD-Live capability, to the PS3. It will also let users copy photos and music playlists on to their handheld PlayStation Portable, use the PSP as a remote control for playing music on the PS3 and stream linked video files from the Web.

This will make the PS3 the first Blu-ray player with access to Internet content and downloads. Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., which owns the Panasonic brand, also plans to ship a BD-Live player this spring.

With the updates, Sony wants to build the gaming console's status as an entertainment hub.

The downloadable content will range from bonus movie scenes and trailers to "interactive movie-based games."

"With Blu-ray established as the high-definition optical disc standard, more consumers are ready to jump in and take advantage of everything the format offers," said Scott A. Steinberg, vice president of product marketing, in a statement.

The free update also adds a "resume play" feature that enables users to restart Blu-ray discs and DVDs at the point where they stopped even if they take the disk out of the drive. According to Sony's PlayStation blog, the update is slated for the "next few days."

Sony is planning to release a stand-alone Blu-ray player this summer that will feature an Ethernet port to download bonus materials. It won't be BD-Live capable -- meaning users won't be able to access Web content -- until a subsequent software update.

In this respect, Blu-ray players are playing catch up to the recently defunct HD DVD systems, which always had Internet capabilities.

The BDP-S350 player will cost about $400; a second player, shipping later this year, will cost about $500 and be able to download Web content.

Source: AP

Console Race: Another Lap For Sony

For the second month in a row, sales of Sony’s (SNE) Playstation 3 console system outpaced Microsoft’s (MSFT) Xbox 360 in the U.S., according to figures released late Mar. 13 by analysts at the NPD Group. Though both companies promptly issued press releases slicing the monthly results in their own favor, the results underscore the tightening race between the two tech giants.

After a 2007 of fits and starts, Sony’s game system seems to finally be on firm footing. The company crowed about the nearly 281,000 PS3 systems it sold, representing 120% sales growth from the year before and a volume 10% higher than Microsoft’s next-generation console for the month. “We believe that Blu-ray becoming the high-def format of choice was the tipping point for many consumers,” said Jack Tretton, president and CEO of Sony Computer Entertainment America, referring to the demise earlier this year of the rival HD-DVD format formerly backed by Microsoft.

For its part, Microsoft issued a release saying supply constraints had held up sales. In Feb., Microsoft sold 254,600 Xbox 360s, up from 230,000 consoles the month before. The company says the so-called Xbox ecosystem – combined sales of game systems, software, and accessories – was worth $332 million, or 39% of the market for next generation systems. Microsoft was also able to sell more games with each of its systems than Sony.

Still, Sony seems to have the wind at its back. In addition to its advanced PS3 console, the company last month sold 243,100 Playstation Portables and an eye-opening 351,800 Playstation 2 units, its previous generation game system. A raft of highly anticipated exclusive titles including sequels to the Metal Gear Solid and Gran Turismo series are due in the next couple of months, which the company hopes will further boost sales. Some analysts have predicted that Sony could pull ahead of Microsoft this year, despite Redmond’s year advance on the Japanese games titan.

As a whole, the games industry continues booming. Year-to-date sales of both hardware and software were up 34% to $1.3 billion from $992 million. “Even following a red-hot 2007, the video games industry shows no signs of letting up,” said Anita Frazier, an NPD analyst. She added that a slate of blockbuster titles yet to be released could push “the industry to achieve another year of record-breaking sales despite difficult economic conditions.”

Source: Business Week