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Wednesday, May 21, 2008

Rock Band lets the good times roll with the Cars' classic 1978 self-titled debut album


Harmonix and MTV Games announced today their second complete album addition to the Rock Band downloadable content catalog: The Cars’ 1978 self-titled debut, which will be available Tuesday, May 27.

Hailed by Rolling Stone as one of the 500 greatest albums of all time, The Cars was released 30 years ago this month by Elektra Records and spawned new wave classic hits such as "Good Times Roll," “My Best Friend's Girl,” “Just What I Needed," “You're All I've Got Tonight” and pop-culture’s favorite bikini-top-removing theme song "Moving in Stereo."

Each track will be available for $1.99 per track (160 Microsoft Points for Xbox 360) or $14.99 (1200 Microsoft Points for Xbox 360) for the album.

Release date: Tuesday, May 27, 2008 (Xbox LIVE Marketplace)

Thursday, May 29, 2008 (PLAYSTATION Store)

Tracks: The Cars The Cars album
  1. "Good Times Roll"
  2. "My Best Friend's Girl"
  3. "Just What I Needed"
  4. "I'm in Touch with Your World"
  5. "Don't Cha Stop"
  6. "You're All I've Got Tonight"
  7. "Bye Bye Love"
  8. "Moving in Stereo"
  9. "All Mixed Up”

(All nine tracks utilize the original master recordings)

Price: $14.99 (1200 Microsoft Points for Xbox 360) for the Album

or

$1.99 (160 Microsoft Points for Xbox 360) per track

Locations: Xbox LIVE Marketplace and PLAYSTATION Network

Asterix at the Olympic games' coming to Xbox 360


Coming Summer 2008, New Fifth Platform for Video Game of the Film Boasts HD Graphics, Featuring Unique Blend of Live Action, CGI and Gameplay Animation

Atari today announced details of the forthcoming video game Asterix at the Olympic Games for Xbox 360. Scheduled for release this summer, Asterix at the Olympic Games revolutionises the world of Asterix by bringing it to a next-generation console for the very first time with impressively detailed and vibrant High Definition graphics and multiplayer action. The game of the highly successful feature film of the same name, Asterix at the Olympic Games blends live action elements from the film with high quality computer generated and video game animation to deliver fans an extraordinary and unique Asterix experience in HD. The game is currently available on PlayStation 2, Nintendo DS, Wii and PC, with the Xbox 360 version scheduled for release this summer 2008.

Developed by Etranges Libellules in close collaboration with Asterix licensor Les Editions Albert RenĂ© and film production company La Petite Reine, the game follows Asterix, Obelix and their devoted druid Getafix as they travel to Olympia to help their love-sick friend Lovestorix win the heart of the Grecian Princess Irina and stop mighty Brutus from destroying the world. Success at the games is the only guarantee of putting an end to Brutus’ evil ways. This original story takes a parallel course to the film and comic book series, and the new multiplayer feature allows friends to enjoy our Gallic heroes’ hilarious, action-packed road to victory together.

In Asterix at the Olympic Games, players can choose from two playable characters, Asterix and Obelix, and switch between them throughout a series of escapades, including physical challenges and brainy problem-solving. The “adventure mode” plays out the love story involving Brutus, Lovestorix and the Grecian Princess Irina, whilst the “antique mode” offers players the chance to compete in over ten disciplines as 12 playable characters, notably a host of our friends from Gaul and athletes from countries of olden times. The more sardonic player could even choose to play as Brutus. There is of course a hearty dose of Roman bashing too. Tutorial videos and excerpts from the feature film appear throughout the game to bring the world of Asterix to life.

Over 14.6 million people across Europe have seen the feature film Asterix at the Olympic Games at the cinema, a success which has been shared with the versions of the game already launched. The advanced and enhanced Xbox 360 version of Asterix at the Olympic Games will be released in the same period as the feature film’s DVD launch to make sure fans can enjoy the full Asterix experience.

The DVD of the live action feature film is scheduled for release across Europe this summer. Asterix at the Olympic Games for PlayStation®2, Nintendo DS™, Wii and PC is available in stores now with the Xbox 360 game scheduled for release across Europe this coming summer.

AGP Tour - First Person Shooter (FPS) 1v1 action in ways never before seen


Vida, LLC, announced today the Association of Gaming Professionals (AGP) and the AGP Tour™ on their official site.

The AGP Tour will be presenting First Person Shooter (FPS) 1v1 action in ways never before seen. The prime focus of each production will be on the professional player and the action of the game in a made for TV environment, with the ability to stream each match online via the official site. Each match will have full in game statistics available to the viewer, player interviews, live commentating, and “…many surprises”, says Jarod Reisin, President and founder of the AGP Tour. “FPS 1v1 has all of the action, skill, and excitement of a true sport. We are going to celebrate it and its players with their established celebrity and fan bases by presenting their long and diverse histories and the intense drama and amazing skill these games provide. Finally the time has come where all of the communities can unite and FPS 1v1 fans around the world can watch their favorite games and players fight it out at the highest level of competition”.

Beginning in 2009, the AGP Tour will be hosting four international tournaments, called the AGP Majors. Held every three months, each Major will feature one FPS 1v1 game. Following each Major, a new game season will begin based on another 1v1 FPS title. The games chosen for the 2009 seasons are as follows (in no particular order):

Quake 4
Quake 3 or potentially Quake Live
Warsow
Unreal Tournament 3

In working through the Association, the players will be able to vote in new FPS 1v1 games to the Tour to replace another, allowing evolution and continual growth as this sport ever changes with new game releases.

Subsequently, the AGP Tour is working with other organizers to house the AGP Elitist Series. These tournaments will take place within each game’s seasons and are second in prize purse and ranking points to the Majors. The AGP Tour is hoping to have as many as two tournaments per season in addition to the four Majors, for a combined total of twelve professional tournaments each year.

The AGP Rankings are based around accumulated points throughout the season.

Players will qualify to attend tournaments based on their rankings and point totals throughout the season. Amateur tournaments will be available as well, called the AGP Circuits.
The AGP Circuits will be for all players with a certain rank or lower. Each tournament will have a prize purse and give ranking points for the player that is chasing the dream of becoming a pro level player and participating in the Majors and Elitist Series.
With the growing limitations of professional E-Sports, the AGP Tour is hoping to give the gaming communities what they have always wanted in a very professional, pre-existing sport that has thrived for over ten years.

Reisin adds, “In light of the more recent decisions of other leagues and tournaments, I heavily feel that the gaming communities deserve what has recently been ignored, the FPS 1v1 genre. Through their support we will thrive and take pro gaming to that next level through a structured skill hierarchy, top notch presentation of every match, and heavy focus on each player. We plan on showcasing everything a professional sport needs to survive and succeed, for the players, for the communities and for the viewers. I am very excited and hope everyone is ready for FPS 1v1 to station itself as the premiere E-Sport”.

The Association of Gaming Professionals itself will be announcing details concerning its cause and goals shortly.

Vida LLC is based out of Kansas City, MO. The company’s goal in the video gaming world is to give the serious sport of professional gaming the proper attention and treatment it deserves for the fans and players alike. Beginning with the AGP and the AGP Tour, Vida LLC is hoping to become your primary source of professional gaming entertainment and representation worldwide.

Izuna 2 - The Unemployed Ninja Returns on Nintendo DS - Fact Sheet


1. Izuna:
Yep, that’s me! I am such a sexy kunoichi. Look at my deep green eyes, my full bodied figure and- Oh, you wanted to hear about my personality? Well, I’m the main character of this little show. People say I’m lazy, self-centered, and that I have no common sense. You know what though? They’re just jealous of my star power.



2. Gen-An:
We call him “Grandboss,” because he’s pretty much our boss and our only family. In fact, we’d follow him to the end of the world in search of a place where he can settle down. Last time... that didn’t work out so well, but we’ll keep looking. I know you’re tired Grandboss, don’t worry...

11. Shino:
This is my best friend, Shino. I call her Shino-Sis, because she treats me more like a younger sister than a friend. But she actually has a real sister who got separated from her a long time ago. Even though her expression doesn’t change much, she burns with fiery passion on the inside. I’m sure of it!

12. Mitsumoto:

Oh... him. He’s the guy who vowed his allegiance to us, making him our eternal servant. He totally thinks he’s awesome, and he’s always trying to pick up on girls. What a loser. And listen, it’s still MY game, so BACK OFF!

21. Ichika:

She’s a really strong fisherwoman from Suirei who I totally thought would never get married. She’s too buff for her own good, and she’s kind of a tomboy. But apparently she found someone, so...

15. Suiren:

She’s the goddess of Water who just thinks she’s sooo mature! I’ll tell you what she really is though! A brat! A brat with a temper who likes to play tricks on people! Is it obvious we don’t get along?

31. Sakichi:

Ehh, he’s not the best looking guy in the world, and he’s just a simple fisherman from Suirei, but he’s kinda smart, and honest, too. Looks like his love for Ichika paid off...

4. Shuuchi:
He’s the god of Earth, and he’s way into honor and following Bushido, the code of the warrior. Whatever floats his boat. Even though he won’t admit it, he’s totally my biggest fan. Isn’t that right, you big Earth god, you!?


5. Fuuka:

The goddess of Wind. She’s always so calm and kind. Even to me, and that’s really something. People say she’s got a violent side, but they must be mistaking her for someone else. I think...

14. Kagen:

If he had half as much brains as he did brawn... Well, he’s the god of Fire, and he’s... compassionate and emotional, but... simple. Very, very simple.

Patch 2.0.4 for Making History - The Calm and the Storm


Software Publisher Strategy First Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Silverstar Holdings, and developer Muzzy Lane, have released patch 2.0.4 for Making History: The Calm and the Storm. Patch 2.0.4 includes the following features:

Features
• New Features
• Modding Improvements
• Performance Improvements
• Bug Fixes
• UI changes
• Content Changes
• AI Changes
• Editor Changes
and much more…


Download the patch today directly from the Strategy First website here


The list of changes can be found directly at the Strategy First website here

Golden Axe Beast Rider on Playstation 3 and Xbox 360 - Fact Sheet


Golden Axe Beast Rider

Platform: Xbox 360, PlayStation 3
Genre: Action-Adventure
Developer: Secret Level
Release Date: 2008
ESRB: ‘M’ for Mature

Golden Axe Beast Rider is an all-new take on the legendary Golden Axe arcade game, optimized to harness the power of next-generation consoles. This retelling broadens the Golden Axe story while retaining all of the nostalgic elements players expect from the brand. Players take the role of Amazon warrior Tyris Flare in this adventure to vaquish the evil Death Adder.

Tyris is out for revenge, having lost loved ones to the brutal expansion of Death Adder’s dark empire. Only Tyris has the knowledge and power to end the genocide that Death Adder and his minions are responsible for. Magic and melee weaponry are at Tyris’ disposal, and both means of offense can be upgraded throughout the adventure. Backing Tyris up are a host of massive beasts – killing machines that can be used to ride into battle, provide defense from approaching enemies, and offer a substantial advantage in close combat.

Grand-scale reconstructions of environments from the original arcade game give battlefields a greater sense of scope and history. Humorous ‘inside references’ - such as the need to kick gnomes for power-ups – will reward players who have fond memories of the prior games. And a somber, realistic tone will define Golden Axe Beast Rider as a thematic departure from the core franchise.


KEY FEATURES:
  • Mounted combat: Unleash a barrage of bites, claws and special attacks, as well as furious swings from the Hero’s own weapon.
  • On-foot combat: In line with the series’ lineage, on-foot combat plays a key role in this game, allowing players to alternate between light attacks, heavy attacks, blocks, ripostes, magic, and grappling.
  • Realistic dismemberment: Not only will limbs and heads fly off in sword combat, the beasts in Golden Axe Beast Rider will be able to tear enemies apart as well.
  • Fidelity to the classic games: Environments, magic, enemies, and beasts are designed to evoke fond memories of the original games.
  • Robust single-player campaign: Single player adventure offers more than 12 hours of critical-path gameplay; the option to choose from one of three heroes to play as increases replay value.

Beijing 2008 -The Official Video Game of the Olympic Games


Beijing 2008 - The Official Video Game of the Olympic Games

Title: Beijing 2008: The Official Video Game of the Olympic Games
Platforms: Xbox360, PLAYSTATION 3, PC
ESRB: E for Everyone
MSRP: Xbox 360: $49.99; PLAYSTATION 3: $49.99; PC: $29.99
Genre: Sports Simulation
Multiplayer: Online up to 4 players
Ship date: June 2008

The Olympic Games have the accolade of not just being the world’s most famous sporting event, but in 2008 have the privilege of being hosted by China – undoubtedly the most talked about emerging economic and political power in the world. With Beijing 2008: The Official Video Game of the Olympic Games (Beijing: 2008), SEGA will capture what makes the Olympic Games special by absorbing the cultural identity, and the athletic drama of the 2008 Olympic Games into the videogame. Beijing 2008 will feature uncanny realism with fully rendered models of the actual Olympic arenas where competitions take place as well as the surrounding cityscape of Beijing. Players will strive for national pride as 32 countries are represented in Beijing 2008 and over 35 different sporting events to participate in. For the first time ever in Olympics video game history, players will have the ability to compete against others online and compare scores on online leader boards; truly capturing the international competitive spirit of the Olympic Games.

Partial Feature List:

• Developed for all true next generation consoles
  • PLAYSTATION 3
  • Xbox 360
  • PC

• 32 National Teams Represented

• Numerous disciplines including
  • Athletics
  • Gymnastics
  • Shooting
  • Aquatics
  • Weightlifting
  • Table Tennis
  • Kayak
  • Cycling
  • Judo
  • Archery

• 38 Events in total

• Over 1000 character models

• Play as male and female competitors

• Comprehensive Game Modes
  • Training
  • Competition
  • Career

• Competitive online gameplay for all platforms
  • Complete live against opponents from around the world
  • Download & upload best times & scores
  • Download & upload ghosts of your best performances
  • Full online leader boards

• LAN (Local Area Network) support for PC version

Sonic Unleashed on PS3 Xbox360 Wii PS2 Fact Sheet


Sonic Unleashed

Platforms: PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Wii, PlayStation 2
Category: Action/Adventure
Developer: Sonic Team
Release: Holiday 2008
ESRB: Rating Pending

Overview

Sonic is on a race against time… as the sun sets, a new adventure awakens!

Sonic Unleashed will launch players on a revolutionary high-speed adventure through a world torn by chaos. Powered by the all-new “Hedgehog Engine,” Sonic Unleashed merges classic Sonic gameplay with the latest in next-generation innovation. It launches players on a journey across the globe and merges blistering 2D action with picturesque 3D environments. Sonic Unleashed delivers an expansive world with seamless 3D to 2D transitions and branching pathways, as well as dynamic viewpoints and a series of enhanced speed mechanics to help Sonic navigate the world.

With an exciting new storyline where day and night play drastically different roles, Sonic Unleashed will send Sonic on an unforgettable quest to save a dying world from the maniacal Dr. Eggman. Players find that Dr. Eggman continues on his mission for domination, but this time he’s upped the stakes by causing a catastrophic event that breaks apart the world and unleashes a slumbering beast that alters Sonic in unexpected ways. It is up to Sonic to use his newfound abilities to connect the remnants of a shattered world by finding the lost chaos emeralds. With the world divided and Sonic facing distinctly complex challenges, including new abilities and powers, the stage is set for a climactic battle for Sonic to save the world… and himself!


Key Features:

  • Unleashed Engine: A suite of new technologies combine to form the new “Hedgehog Engine” unveiled in Sonic Unleashed. Under development for three years, delivers a revolutionary gameplay experience with realistic graphics and seamless transitions between 3D and classic 2D high-speed action.
  • Unleashed Gameplay: With scorching 2D gameplay and cutting-edge 3D visuals, the latest Sonic adventure blends the very best of the franchise with a keen eye toward the future. Use a collection of all-new abilities and powers to navigate thrilling courses, while battling the minions of Dr. Eggman.
  • Unleashed Speed: Avoid obstacles instantly using “Quick Step” without losing speed. Players can also use “Sonic Boost” and accelerate to supersonic speed by quickly collecting rings and increasing “Ring Energy” level. Finally, maintain the high-speed momentum through turns using “Speed Drift”. With more opportunities to maintain or increase speed, the player is challenged to compete with energy and fast-paced action!
  • Unleashed Environments: The splintered world of Sonic Unleashed delivers a massive playground where players can choose an array of paths when jetting through each stage. Each unique route offers different encounters with varying rewards and obstacles.

BLEACH - Dark Souls on Nintendo DS Fact Sheet



BLEACH - Dark Souls

Genre: Action-Fighting
Launch Date: Summer 2008
Developer: Treasure
Platform: Nintendo DS
ESRB: Rating Pending

BLEACH: Dark Souls on the Nintendo DS brings an exclusive storyline, expanded cast of playable characters and fast multi-plane fighting action for up to four players via Wi-Fi. Players will also build a power-packed Spirit Card Deck and collect power crystals to augment their spirit card powers on the lower screen and dish out moves that will directly affect their opponent’s gameplay. With a burgeoning cast of 44 characters including the ability to play as Hollows, players can spend hours experiencing furious fighting gameplay and unlocking personal character stories all based on the series’ story arc.

BLEACH is a popular animated series on Cartoon Network. The series follows the life of a 15-year-old boy, Ichigo Kurosaki, who crosses paths with a Soul Reaper and becomes one. The franchise has established itself as a major anime series in Japan, and is now creating a stir in North America. The first season of the show was featured on Cartoon Network’s program, Adult Swim, and received solid ratings in America this past year. The series is poised for a successful second season that began March 2008.

KEY FEATURES:

  • Exclusive Single-player Storyline. BLEACH: Dark Souls features an exclusive storyline that takes place in between seasons 1 and 2 of the animated series. Fans of the anime will have to play BLEACH: Dark Souls to uncover story plot points that are sure to shed new insight on Ichigo’s quest to save Rukia.
  • Exciting Multiplayer fighting action. Up to four players will enjoy the fighting action via Wi-Fi connection. This game supports the Download Play feature where one player has a cartridge and transmits the game to another player’s Nintendo DS which allows them to play head-to-head.
  • Variety of multi-plane 2D fighting arenas. Players can switch between the foreground and the background battlelines to chase after or escape from opponents.
  • Large cast of popular characters. Players will select from 44 of their favorite characters who are all voiced by the actors from the anime series including the Hollows.
  • Special attacks to master. Players can inflict massive damage on opponents with special Combos and Super Power Attacks taken directly from the series.
  • Seven thrilling gameplay modes. Story, Arcade, Versus, Training and Challenge modes along with two unlockable modes which will provide hours of replayability and keep players coming back for more.
  • 30 New Power-up Cards and Power Crystals to Customize Spirit Card Deck. On the lower screen, players can customize and manage their deck of Power-up Cards for boosts to Health, Attack and Defense, and much more.
  • New BLEACH Encyclopedia. Contains fun and interesting facts about the entire BLEACH universe. Fans of the series are sure to use this as a reference for to expand their BLEACH knowledge.

Get Fit and feel fab with Nell McAndrew's Body Fitness mobile game



Nell McAndrew’s Body Fitness – a truly unique mobile lifestyle companion.

This advanced application helps the user detox their lifestyle and encourages them to look at a healthier outlook by guiding them through a simple agenda and fitness plan.

Initially the user is asked to complete The Fitness Plan quiz to determine what type of workout and nutrition choices will work best for them and their lifestyle. It then works with them to devise an effective workout routine from a vast exercise database, containing a wealth of different options including aerobics and cardio as well as vital warming up and cooling down techniques.

The Agenda works alongside the exercises by helping the user plan their meals with handy options such as a one month diet plan and a calendar to chart progress and increase productivity.
Throughout the application the user is offered detox advice and tips from Nell McAndrew.

Nell McAndrew started her career modelling and is a well regarded celebrity health and fitness figure through her string of successful fitness workout releases, high-profile charity associations and modelling.

She famously launched Cancer Research UK Race for Life 2008 flanked by thousands of other women in London’s Regent’s Park whose training outfits were painted on their bodies.
Nell comments: “Environmental factors and busy hectic lifestyles mean some people haven’t the time to assess how they could be leading a healthier life. Your mobile goes with you everywhere – so by using this simple application, you can have me in your pocket or bag, encouraging you to get fit and feel fantastic whilst on the go. There’s no excuse now!”

“We strive to deliver not only unique and interesting content to the user, but also subjects which can have a positive effect on people’s demanding lives. We developed Nell McAndrew’s Body Fitness to be a mobile lifestyle companion, to enhance the user’s fitness and to teach them how to lead a more positive and healthier life,” says Christian Guillemot, CEO of AMA.

Nell McAndrew’s Body Fitness is available in the UK from this month.