KONAMI ANNOUNCES CASTLEVANIA: ORDER OF ECCLESIA FOR NINTENDO DS

Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc. today announced Castlevania: Order of Ecclesia exclusively for Nintendo DS™. Introducing the all-new Glyph attack system, players will be able to use special attack combinations as they attempt to defeat Dracula and his horde. Also introduced to the series are new outdoor locales ranging from forests to the ocean, giving players the chance to explore outside of Dracula's Castle. Developed by legendary Castlevania producer Koji "Iga" Igarashi, Castlevania: Order of Ecclesia is poised to set a new standard for side scrolling action on DS.

"We have always felt that the Castlevania franchise has been an excellent fit on Nintendo DS, and based on the popularity of the DS classics, Dawn of Sorrow and Portrait of Ruin, our fans agree," said Anthony Crouts, Vice President of Marketing for Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc. "We fully expect Order of Ecclesia to ignite the fan base once again as it combines the classic Castlevania gameplay with an all-new combat system and outdoor environments."

In Order of Ecclesia players take the role of a member of the Ecclesia, an organization that has sworn to defeat the evil forces of Dracula. By using the new Glyph attack system, players can unleash more than 100 different combinations to battle Dracula's minions throughout 20 explorable areas. Utilizing the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection , players can choose to compete head-to-head, or trade items and equipment they have found while exploring the environments. Multiple endings that can be unlocked depending on how the player completes the game adds even more replay value to the game with plenty of addictive exploration, combat and items to discover.

Developed by Konami, Castlevania: Order of Ecclesia is planned for release on Nintendo DS in Fall 2008. For more information on the games, please visit: www.konami.com.

NHL All-Star Rick Nash of Columbus Blue Jackets to be Cover Athlete for NHL 2K9

Visual Concepts to bring the fun and excitement back to hockey video games

Millions of hockey fans continue to enjoy intense Stanley Cup Playoffs action, but it’s never too early to start looking forward to next year’s NHL season. 2K Sports, the sports publishing label of Take-Two Interactive Software today announced that three-time NHL All-Star and captain of the Columbus Blue Jackets, Rick Nash, will be featured as the cover athlete and spokesman for this year’s highly anticipated hockey video game, NHL 2K9. Visual Concepts has taken over the development duties for NHL 2K9 and are building a brand new experience from the ground up with the ultimate goal of creating an addictively fun sport simulation of the NHL that will be available this fall.

“I’ve been a longtime fan of the hockey games from 2K Sports. My idols have all been on the covers of video games as I was growing up, so to be on the cover of NHL 2K9 myself is truly incredible,” said Nash, who scored an impressive three goals in the 2008 NHL All-Star Game. “The set of new features they’re adding is really going to make this game special for hockey fans - I’m hoping they give me a couple extra points to my player rating this year!”

Nash was selected first overall in the 2002 NHL Draft and is one of the most exciting and dynamic young players in the NHL. In only his second season, at the age of 19, Nash became the youngest player in NHL history to win the “Rocket” Richard Trophy by co-leading the League with 41 goals scored. Now an established superstar in the NHL, Nash was also a member of Team Canada at the 2006 Olympics, and was named MVP of the 2007 World Championships. His deep level of involvement and work with Visual Concepts, alongside his background as an experienced gamer, provides an invaluable contribution and influence to the overall development process for creating the most fun hockey experience available.

“We’re absolutely thrilled to have Rick Nash be part of the 2K Sports family,” said Christoph Hartmann, president of 2K. “Nash is one of the marquee names in the NHL today. He is a true gamer and there is no player more fitting to represent NHL 2K9 as we bring high quality fun to hockey video games for another year.”

NHL 2K9 is being developed by Visual Concepts, a 2K Sports studio, and is not yet rated by the ESRB. NHL 2K9 will be available this fall for Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, PLAYSTATION 3 computer entertainment system, and PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system. For more information, please visit www.2ksports.com.

Gamevil launches Golf Superstars 2008 mobile game

You don't have to be a pro at golf in order to enjoy this game!

2008-GAMEVIL USA, the LA-based mobile games publisher, announced today the launch of Golf Superstars 2008, a new casual golf game that will challenge your golf prowess with unique themed tournaments and real golf rules.

Golf Superstars 2008 immediately appeals to a wide audience with its user-friendly controls and game play. Users select from a list of players, each with personal strengths, and customize them with special items they unlock throughout various tournaments. Like real golf, there will be obstacles that players must look out for, such as water hazards and trees or cactuses that stand in the way. Unlike most golf games that seem to only aim at hardcore golf fans, Golf Superstars 2008 attracts players of all ages with its fun and easy to learn game play, sharp and colorful graphics, and realistic golf shots and techniques.

“Golf Superstars 2008 maintains a good balance of challenging and casual game play, with tournaments that test out ones golf prowess and easy controls to ease beginners into the game,” said Stephanie Huang, Marketing Manager of GAMEVIL USA, Inc. “The game is very addicting, and users will find it very original and enjoyable without feeling the pressure of having to know the sport well in order to play the game.”

Disney launch The Chronicles of Narnia – Prince Caspian on Nintendo DS

Brand new online network enables Disney gamers and Narnia fans to communicate via Nintendo DS and online

Prince Caspian game to be available on multiple video game platforms

Disney Interactive Studios nnounced the availability of DGamer in North America for Nintendo DS users in conjunction with the launch of the Nintendo DS version of Disney/Walden Media’s The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian. DGamer from Disney is the first-of-its-kind online community developed exclusively for Disney video gamers. Players can now use their Nintendo DS handhelds to interact with each other while on the go via the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection and online through the DGamer Web site (www.DGamer.com). The integrated service is scheduled to be included at no additional cost on subsequent Nintendo DS titles from Disney. DGamer is also scheduled to be available in other international regions by 2009.

“DGamer was built around the vision to connect Disney video game fans in a secure, fun environment and it is truly the first integrated online community of its kind to do so on multiple platforms,” said Graham Hopper, executive vice president and general manager for Disney Interactive Studios. “We recognize the importance of delivering unique experiences to our consumers and how crucial it is for parents to feel confident that the community is secure for their kids.

DGamer, which leverages the community technology of Disney.com, allows players to log into their DS and online accounts to create and customize a unique 3-D avatar and persistent profile. A wide variety of outfits, hats, eyewear and accessories are available to choose from, including special Disney-themed costumes, such as Buzz Lightyear, Tinker Bell and familiar Disney theme park mouse ears. Kids can chat, view user profiles of their DGamer friends, and post high scores to leaderboards. In addition, players earn “honors” which represent what players have been rewarded when completing in-game missions. Honors can also trigger unlockables such as special gear for player’s avatars, all of which transfer automatically between the DGamer Web site and the DGamer feature in DS games from Disney when users log in. For example, when playing The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian, players can unlock Prince Caspian character costumes that can be worn by their DGamer avatar. Certain “honors” also unlock exclusive content in Nintendo DS games from Disney and within the DGamer channel online.

Parents are also encouraged to play an active role in the DGamer community. By accessing parental controls at www.dgamer.com, they can specify the level of interactivity that kids have online and feel confident that their child’s experience is age appropriate. For example, parents can choose between three chat levels for their kids’ use by utilizing the familiar security features and infrastructure at Disney.com, which hosts the DGamer site. Kids can either communicate using a predetermined list of words and phrases called “Speed Chat,” through modified free-form typing that blocks inappropriate language or suggestive phrases called “Speed Chat Plus,” or via “Open Chat” which requires an exchange of a True Friend Code outside of the DGamer system. Disney.com employs several safety features to ensure all chat communication is moderated for safety.

Fall Line Studio, the Nintendo platform-dedicated development studio of Disney Interactive Studios, developed both DGamer and The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian for Nintendo DS. The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian is an action/role-playing adventure game that takes players through Narnia and beyond the events of the much-anticipated second film, which is set to open in theaters across North America tomorrow.

“The Chronicles of Narnia franchise has such a massive following that it made this the perfect game to launch DGamer on because it keeps fans connected like never before,” said Hopper. “Through the DGamer functionality, fans can chat, share honors, and engage in a truly unique
and different experience that immerses them in the world of Narnia in only a way that Disney can deliver.”

In addition to Nintendo DS, The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian video game will be available for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, the PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system, the Wii™ home video game console, the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system and Windows-based PC. The console and Windows-based PC versions of the game were developed by Traveller’s Tales and take players on a fast-paced action/adventure that features 20 playable characters and combat, exploration and puzzle solving that extends beyond the film. The console versions also include two live action scenes that were created exclusively for the video game and accompany 16 scenes taken from the film.

The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian for Nintendo DS has an Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) rating of E10+ for Everyone 10 years and older and is now available for $29.99. The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian for consoles and Windows-based PC is rated T for Teen and will be available for Xbox 360, the PLAYSTATION 3 system and Wii for $49.99; and the PLAYSTATION 2 system and Windows-based PC for $29.99.

For more information about DGamer, log on to www.dgamer.com. For more information about The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian video game, log on to www.princecaspianthegame.com.

About “The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian” film

The enchanted characters of C.S. Lewis’s timeless fantasy come to life again in this second installment of the seven book series, in which the Pevensie siblings are magically and mysteriously transported back from England to Narnia, where a thrilling, perilous new adventure and an even greater test of their faith and courage awaits them. For more information, log on to www.narnia.com.

About Walden Media

Walden Media specializes in entertainment that sparks imagination and engages young people in the learning process. Walden creates films, books and interactive media for the whole family to enjoy together. By working closely with the best talent in film and publishing and by collaborating
with educators and parents, Walden Media develops stories that delight and entertain audiences young and old. Walden Media produced the Academy Award winning film The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe in association with Walt Disney Pictures, Charlotte’s Web with Paramount and Nickelodeon Movies and Bridge to Terabithia with Walt Disney Pictures. Walden Media currently has a joint venture with Twentieth Century Fox to market and release family films for audiences of all ages. Films released under this venture include Nim’s Island and Mr. Magorium’s Wonder Emporium (co-produced with Mandate Pictures). Other upcoming releases include Journey 3D (with New Line Cinema), and the second film in the Narnia series, The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian.

AGETEC TO BEAM IN "FADING SHADOWS" FOR PSP (PLAYSTATION PORTABLE) SYSTEM

Agetec, Inc. is pleased to announce the upcoming “Fading Shadows” for the PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system. Featuring 50 exciting levels, this game will be sure to mystify and awe players. Fading Shadows is scheduled to be released early summer 2008.

In Fading Shadows, evil is never very far away. Aira and her brother, Erywn, were living peacefully on the joyful side of the world when the villainous Master Gardal captured Erwyn. Gardal plans on overthrowing the famed Castle of Heaven – which is the supreme fortress built to protect the world from forces of darkness. According to an ancient prophecy, in order for Gardal to breach the castle gates, a sacrifice of a pure and untainted soul, Erwyn’s, must be made. While sitting in the dungeon and awaiting his execution, Aira seals her brother’s soul inside a single teardrop and transforms the teardrop into a protective orb. Now, to save her brother, she must safely guide the orb back to the Castle of Heaven using a magical beam of light.

“We’re very happy to be publishing this game as we think many people will be fascinated by the story,” says Agetec’s producer Mark Johnson. “It’s an incredible, one-of-a-kind game that features an intriguing story, brain teasing puzzles, and unique gameplay. Puzzle fans will not be disappointed.”

Fading Shadows has the player take control of a beam of light in order to lead an orb through dungeons, swamps, mountains, and around rivers - all while avoiding traps and solving increasingly difficult puzzles! Players will also need to keep up with their surroundings as they occasionally transform the orb’s state to either glass, metal, or wood. Players must do whatever it takes to save Aira’s brother from his cruel fate and return him home.

For more information check out www.agetec.com

Rock Revolution - authentic music-based video game

Industry Leader Turns Up the Volume With New Music-Based Franchise for the PLAYSTATION 3 system, Xbox 360, Wii and Nintendo DS

Authentic Drum Peripheral Delivers Unparalleled Music Game Experience

Konami Digital Entertainment, announced Rock Revolution, an unprecedented, authentic music-based video game that will re-define the rhythm genre. Brought to market by the company that created the music video game category, with breakthrough titles such as DanceDanceRevolution, Karaoke Revolution, Beatmania and Guitar Freaks, Rock Revolution provides an unmatched rock experience. Breaking new ground with its definitive drum experience, Rock Revolution also gives players a chance to rock out on the bass and lead guitar. Designed by musicians, Rock Revolution will be available with the most realistic drum peripheral on the market at launch for the Xbox 360 and PLAYSTATION 3 computer entertainment system.

"Rock Revolution will be the most innovative and realistic rock game to hit the market, that will provide a quality drum peripheral and music that players will appreciate," said Anthony Crouts, Vice President of Marketing for Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc. "As the originator of music-based games, we are dedicated to bringing fans a truly preeminent music experience. With Rock Revolution, we put the emphasis on the drum kit, delivering an experience unlike any other."

Rock Revolution features an extensive music selection on the game disc, along with a wide variety of downloadable songs available at launch for the Xbox 360 and PLAYSTATION 3 system versions of the game. Additionally, title offers a variety of innovative single-player and multi-player modes.

A unique aspect of the Wii version is the interactive use of the controls with the Wii Remote and Nunchuk for an air-drum and air-guitar experience. Rock out anywhere with the Nintendo DS version, using the stylus for intense rhythm matching sessions.

Rock Revolution is scheduled to launch this Fall for the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, PLAYSTATION 3 system and the Wii and DS video game systems from Nintendo.

Meet the Playboy model that's seriously into games?

Shes logged a 100 hours on FFXII and has played many other RPG's. I think she might actually be a hot gamergirl....and here I thought they didn't exist. The search still continues however for a hot chick that cooks and cleans.

read more | digg story

Limited edition Metal Gear Solid 4 - Guns of the Patriots Hardware bundle

Highly Limited Edition Bundle Includes Gun Metal Gray 40GB PLAYSTATION 3 Computer Entertainment System With Matching Controller And Metal Gear Solid 4 - Guns of the Patriots Limited Edition Game



Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc. today announced the availability of a limited edition Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots PLAYSTATION 3 computer entertainment system bundle for North America. Featuring a Gun Metal Gray PLAYSTATION 3 system with a 40GB hard drive, the bundle also includes a matching DUALSHOCK 3 wireless controller and Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots Limited Edition game. The bundle will be exclusively available at Konami's website, www.konami.com, for a SRP of $599.99. Pre-sell for the bundle begins on May 19th, 2008, and limited supplies are available.

Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots is the final chapter in the saga of Solid Snake, which sends him around the world in pursuit of his arch nemesis, Liquid Ocelot. Armed with new gadgets and abilities, Solid Snake must shift the tides of war into his favor, using the chaos of the battlefield to infiltrate deep into enemy territory. In his globetrotting final mission, Snake must sneak deep into enemy locations in the Middle East, South America, and other corners of the earth to foil Liquid Ocelot's plans for total world domination.




Metal Gear Solid 4 - Guns of the Patriots is rated "M" for Mature by the ESRB and will be available on June 12, 2008 exclusively on the PLAYSTATION 3 system. The Standard Edition of Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots will be priced at $59.99 SRP while the Limited Edition will be priced at $84.99 SRP and only available at Gamestop retailers. The Limited Edition PLAYSTATION 3 system bundle SRP is $599.99, and pre-orders start on May 19th. For more information, please visit www.konami.com.

Europa Universalis - Rome patch release

Recently named "Best PC Game of the month" by one of the largest gaming media outlets in the world*, Europa Universalis: Rome has captivated strategy fans across the entire globe.

Today Paradox Interactive released patch 1.2, accessible via the game's loading screen (update). The patch includes among other things:

- A rebalanced military system that even more closely represents the roman battlefield
- A deeper character interface, providing the player with more statistics and information on each character
- Added events that add to the look and feel of the Rome environment and gameplay
- Compatibility issues with Vista and Intel graphics cards have now been solved.

Patch 1.2 also includes the Day 1 patch.

Europa Universalis: Rome was released on April 15 in North American retail and has since been released on most markets worldwide. The game is also available for direct download via GamersGate.

Konami set to release three Dance Dance Revolution games

Just like last year Konami is preparing three Dance Dance Revolution games. The PlayStation 2, Wii and Xbox 360 each get one. Before the announcement we discovered two of them DDR X (PS2) and Dance Dance Revolution Hottest Party 2 (Wii).

Dance Dance Revolution Universe 3 was the one we missed, but I’m sure the announcement isn’t a surprise. Some of the features are brand new like the emphasis on character customization. In City Mode players dance off against computer controlled bosses and earn parts to build their own character out of 400 parts. Once you pick an outfit, hairstyle and face you can bring your dancer on Xbox Live as a custom avatar for the weekly tournaments. Universe 3 has 70 songs with the ability to create your own with a DJ Mode. Konami hasn’t gone into details about how DJ Mode works. Is it an MP3 importer or a full music creation tool?

Dance Dance Revolution Hottest Party 2 has character customization too. Sort of. You can place your Mii on stage, but Konami hasn’t shown any screenshots with a dancing Mii. Finally, you can have your Michael Jackson Mii dance to “Black and White” by the pop icon. Other songs in Hottest Party 2 include “Umbrella” from Rihanna, “Makes Me Wonder” by Maroon 5 and “We Got the Beat” from the Go-Gos. All the gimmicks that you loved or loathed are back too with new gimmicks like the Triple Stomp. The biggest gimmick is Dance Dance Revolution Hottest Party 2 aims to teach players actual dance moves in the Hottest Training Mode. I admit, I’m actually curious about this.

While Dance Dance Revolution Ultramix 3 and Dance Dance Revolution Hottest Party 2 are adding new features, Dance Dance Revolution X is more of the same. The big change is really the graphics. Cel-shaded gangster rappers and spilt screen close-ups make Dance Dance Revolution X superficially appear different. The other change is a new LAN mode that lets players connect multiple PlayStation 2s together until you have eight dancers. Konami hasn’t announced any of the 70 songs, but glancing through the screenshots the Time Hollow theme song is in this for sure.

Screenshot comparison time! From top to bottom: Dance Dance Revolution Universe 3, Dance Dance Revolution Hottest Party 2, Dance Dance Revolution X.

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