Japanese video game Flower, Sun and Rain gets update and European launch

Revered Japanese title finally gets a European release as Suda51 updates his PlayStation 2 masterpiece; Trailer to be unveiled on August 1st 2008

Rising Star Games will be keeping both Suda51 and mystery fans happy this autumn with the long-awaited release of Flower, Sun and Rain.

Written and directed by the infamous games creator, this Nintendo DS exclusive is the first chance western gamers have had to experience one of Suda51’s earliest creations and offers an insight into the evolution of his unique style following the huge successes of Killer7 and No More Heroes.

Flower, Sun and Rain is an intriguing mystery adventure very much in the vein of Groundhog Day. You play a detective charged with locating and defusing a bomb by solving thought-provoking puzzles with a wealth of bizarre outcomes. Solving the mystery of what is happening to him and his surroundings is necessary before he eventually goes insane.

Originally released on the Sony PlayStation 2, Flower, Sun and Rain was never available outside of Japan and has been high on wish lists of every Suda51 fan since Killer7 was unleashed on the western market in 2005. This updated Nintendo DS version features all the creative quirks that made the original a hit and uniquely utilises the touch screen to solve mysteries, offering players a more intimate experience.

Commenting on its imminent release, Goichi Suda, aka Suda51 commented, “It’s great news that European gamers are getting to play Flower, Sun and Rain. All of my creative work involves a touch of the bizarre and unexpected and this game is no different!”

In keeping with the mystery-solving style of the game, registered users of the Rising Star Games media bank will get an early opportunity to view the game trailer. This brand new trailer will be available on the media bank (www.risingstargamesmediabank.com) from 9am on Friday, August 1st 2008. It will then be made available to all from 9am the following Monday.

Flower, Sun and Rain will be released throughout Europe from mid-October 2008.

Shot-Online MMO Golfing Simulation for Spain and France

New Spanish and French versions of the internationally successful MMO sports title “Shot Online” announced.

Both new versions will be available for beta testers in mid August, and will be released commercially later this year. The respective websites can already be reached at www.shot-online.eu

The only realistic MMO golfing simulation

Shot Online is a comprehensive and realistic golfing experience, offering players over 250 different holes to play. Players can gain experience points for every well-played course, in order to level up and become the ultimate golfing professional. Beyond that, they have the chance to buy hundreds of optional items to improve their abilities even further. Although there is the possibility to buy certain items for real money, Shot Online remains completely free because every object can also be bought with the in-game currency, either from an NPC or in the auction house.

While up to four players can compete in a direct match at any time, there will be special events and tournaments for everyone on a regular basis, with great prizes to be won. Of course there are lots of useful community features, which give players the chance to chat with their friends, meet new people and form guilds to play as a team.

After a very successful year for the German version of the game, now with over 150,000 registered players, gamigo is finishing up the French and Spanish versions of the worldwide popular sports MMOG. These versions will not only be available to players in France and Spain, but every player from around the globe speaking one of these languages can become part of the growing international community.



In mid August, players will have the chance to check out the new versions of the game for the first time, in an extensive beta testing period. The final version will commence shortly afterwards. Right now, players can already check out the official website in both new languages and meet up with other golfers in the forums.

“We are excited to launch Shot Online in two new languages, so we can give hundreds of thousands of players worldwide the chance to experience this great game”, says Sven Ossenbrüggen, CEO gamigo AG. “With the new versions of Shot Online and other great, free games coming up in additional languages, we are showing our commitment to expanding our influence in the European gaming business.”

Shot Online will be released as a beta version in mid August, with a completely free final version following shortly afterwards later. Players can go to the official website www.shot-online.eu right now, and already register to be one of the first players to check out the new versions.

EA's 'Spore' a week from being finished

'Spore' developers were surprised by a user's creation of this skeleton because they didn't think this kind of figure was possible

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NCsoft Immortalises Video Gamers In Space

Online game company to send digital time capsule with human DNA on Richard Garriott's journey to International Space Station

Could you be the saviour of humankind? NCsoft, the world’s leading publisher and developer of online computer games, has announced it will launch the “Immortality Drive” – a time capsule with the digitised DNA of select video game players* and space aficionados – into orbit when famed game designer Richard Garriott travels to the International Space Station in October 2008.

As part of NCsoft’s “Operation Immortality,” Richard Garriott – the man who created Tabula Rasa, a massively multiplayer online (MMO) PC game that explores the destruction of Earth – is now venturing into space to save humanity.



During the campaign, U.S. Tabula Rasa players have a chance to have their DNA sequenced, digitised and sent into space on the Immortality Drive. In addition, all players worldwide with active retail accounts on September 2, 2008 will have their Tabula Rasa characters uploaded to the device, giving them the opportunity to go to space virtually. In order to make this unique opportunity accessible to as many people as possible, free trials of the game are available at

http://www.plaync.com/eu/trials/rgtr. Garriott will place the Immortality Drive on the International Space Station when he travels there in autumn.

“I’ve been able to do some very exciting things in the games business, but nothing of this magnitude,” said Garriott, executive producer for Tabula Rasa at NCsoft. “I’m thrilled we can offer the once in a lifetime chance to millions of gamers to virtually go to space with me. A select few U.S. players will have their DNA digitised and sent. And, theoretically, if anything happens to the human race, it could be their DNA that is used to resurrect humanity.”

Starting today and lasting through August 31, 2008, anyone with a PC and an Internet connection can go to http://www.operationimmortality.com and participate in weekly polls on humanity’s greatest achievements which will be included on the Immortality Drive, such as “What is the greatest song of all time?” and “What is the greatest technological breakthrough of all time?” Current Tabula Rasa players, or those who download and play the free trial, will also be able to enter a personal message for inclusion on the Drive.

“This is your chance to leave your mark,” says Garriott. “While everyone can participate in the polls at http://www.operationimmortality.com, Tabula Rasa players will be the only gamers in the universe who can say that a piece of them is in space, since we’re sending their in-game alter-egos, and for some, their DNA, to space with me.”

Tabula Rasa, which launched November 2007, is an intense, fast-paced, sci-fi MMO PC game that puts you in the middle of the never-ending intergalactic fight for freedom against a hostile alien race called the Bane. Players use high-tech weaponry, alien powers, and the help of other Allied Free Sentients (AFS) soldiers to rid the universe of the Bane threat.

With frequent free updates to players, the game world of Tabula Rasa has grown significantly since launch. Upcoming features to the game include clan-owned Control Points, new missions, and Personal Armor Units.

No purchase is necessary to participate in Operation Immortality, with free trials of Richard Garriott’s Tabula Rasa available at http://www.plaync.com/eu/trials/rgtr. The game is currently available at most major retailers and at http://www.plaync.com/eu/store/. The retail box includes the first month of online game play. After the first month, players will be charged a monthly subscription fee of £8.99 / €12.99.

For information about Operation Immortality, including full terms and conditions, go to http://www.operationimmortality.com. For information on Richard Garriott’s Tabula Rasa go to http://www.rgtr.com/.

The DNA part of this campaign promotion is available to residents in the U.S. only. European law prohibits participation.

Jewel Quest Expeditions and Mah Jong Quest Expeditions on Nintendo DS

Jewel Quest Expeditions and Mah Jong Quest Expeditions on Nintendo DS. Following on from the success of these hugely popular casual games on PC, these two classic puzzles will launch in September 2008.

Jewel Quest Expeditions DS

With over 15 million players worldwide on PC, Jewel Quest is a much loved gem-matching game that provides hours of entertainment. Play as adventurer Robert Pack, travelling through Africa on a quest to unlock the mysteries of 180 unique jewel boards.

Work through each of the levels using the stylus or control pad to select adjacent rows of coloured jewels, turning the blocks underneath to gold before the timer runs out. If too much time is taken a life will be lost, but bonus points will be awarded for remaining time. Earn special moves by matching up gold coins, allowing golden blocks to be created, buried jewels to be uncovered and obstructive items removed. Enjoy the game as a single player or wirelessly link up with up to 7 friends to enter competition mode.

Mah Jong Quest Expeditions DS

This popular ancient Chinese game has been enjoyed by over 4 million players worldwide on PC. The new DS version features classic Mah Jong gameplay with an intriguing twist, guaranteed to challenge anyone looking for a brain workout. As the world has fallen into a state of imbalance, teenage hero Kwazi is split into male (White) and female (Black). Players must restore harmony to the world by guiding the two Kwazis through 8 mystical lands and 64 different puzzle boards.

Choose from Quest, Classic or Puzzle mode to work through the levels, using the stylus or control pad to match pairs of tiles. The puzzle board must be cleared before time runs out; points are won for every match made and matching four identical tiles in a row with extra bonuses awarded for remaining time.

Fast facts:

Publisher: Avanquest Software Publishing
Developer: iWin, Inc.
Distributor: Open
Release date: 12th September 2008
PEGI: 3+
Format: Nintendo DS
Genre: Puzzle
SRP: £19.99

Pet Pals Wii announced

JoWooD Productions is pleased to announce it has taken over as publisher for Pet Pals Wii™ in the European market. By adding this title to its 2008 line-up, the Austrian Publisher is targeting young players between the ages of 6 and 12 and fans of other kids & family games such as “Paint by DS”, “Matchstick Puzzle by DS” or “Music Monstars”.

"Nonviolent & educational“ – these demands of most parents are met with Pet Pals Wii. Children are taught responsibility for their pets in a fun and entertaining way. With the unique features of the Wii Remote, the player can even take over the role of the veterinarian to save sick or injured animals.

Inputs from veterinarians during the development of the project have contributed to the authenticity in Pet Pals Wii, guaranteeing an outstanding gaming experience.

Galaxy on Fire 2 - Mobile Cellphone video game

FISHLABS presents the second part of the spectacular 3D space shooter for mobile phones

Fans of outer space shooters can prepare themselves for tough battles: FISHLABS, leading developer of premium 3D mobile phone games, presents the second part of their multi-award-winning space shooter Galaxy on Fire™. The new mobile game, which will be released in the late autumn of this year, ties in to its highly praised predecessor and once again sets new standards in the field of 3D mobile games.

In this thrilling outer space episode, the mercenary Keith Maxwell, the hero of the first part, is catapulted through time and space by a malfunction in his spaceship’s hyperdrive. He wakes up 35 years later and finds himself in a changed galaxy, where the balance of power is gravely threatened: an unknown race has invaded the known space of the galaxy using wormhole technology and threatens the existing balance of power.

The successor to the award-winning Galaxy on Fire impresses with sensational 3D graphics, outstanding gameplay, and a thrilling story. The gigantic galaxy, with over 20 solar systems, Includes 100 unique space stations, completely rendered in 3D, with an extensive trading system, mission boards, and upgrade possibilities for ships and equipment.

The stirring story, with over 10 hours of dramatic space adventures guaranteed, skilfully combines mission-based and free gameplay. Players can choose from among more than 30 individual spaceships and equip them with countless weapons and equipment for the battle against the enemy. Mini-games offer the opportunity to land on asteroids and mine ore, in order to manufacture special equipment and trade goods later. Using new special weapons, squadron gameplay, and the ability to take control of firing turrets, players combat against dozens of opponents from different races and fractions in most diverse battle situations.

‘The first part of Galaxy on Fire, which appeared a good three years ago, was our first really big 3D title. The game was revolutionary in its graphics and game depth and earned nothing but top scores in countless tests. Naturally, the expectations for the second part in our fan community are just as high,’ says Michael Schade, CEO of FISHLABS Entertainment GmbH. ‘There is good reason we took our time with the sequel, and we are sure that Galaxy on Fire 2, with its improved graphics and completely new gameplay elements, will even surpass the success of its predecessor.’

Master of the Monster Lair - Nintendo DS game delayed to October

A shovel with insider information and the rare ability to speak aloud has just broken the story that Master of the Monster Lair has slipped out of September and is now scheduled for release on October 21.

“It seems as though Nintendo DS adventurers in search of dungeon-crafting, monster hunting and loot collection will have to wait a little while longer,” stated the trowel, matter-of-factly.

Master of the Monster Lair for Nintendo DS lets players create the dungeon of their dreams, trying to lure in a variety of monsters carrying different types of items and treasure. True master lair architects can trade designs with a friend via local wireless. Dig these features and more when Master of the Monster Lair releases on October 21, 2008.

Official game demo for puzzle-strategy title Red Bull BC One for Nintendo DS

Official game demo for the upcoming puzzle-strategy title Red Bull BC One for Nintendo DS.

To preview the game, click here and stay tuned for Ignition Entertainment's official launch of the Red Bull BC One game site, coming soon!

Red Bull BC One is one of the most important B-Boy competitions in the world. The legendary battle hosts 16 of the world's best B-Boys in a one-on-one, knock-out-battle to determine who is The One. See the latest Red Bull BC One trailers, screenshots, game facts, wallpapers, and access the entire Red Bull BC One universe at www.redbullbcone.com. Visitors will also have the opportunity to view past battles, create their own B-Boy profile and peruse profiles of more than 180 other B-Boys and find out more about the 2008 Red Bull BC One competition this fall in Paris, France.

The Red Bull BC One game lets players become a champion B-Boy. Using the touch screen functionality on your Nintendo DS, you'll control the action of your very own B-Boy by solving puzzles breaking combos under increasingly tough time limits. Set a high score that's worth bragging about and advance your player to the next round. Coupled with a unique graphic flare, 35 original musical tracks and a variety of mini-games, a quick, steady hand and some creativity will throw you right into the Red Bull BC One arena.

FEATURES:

• Officially licensed game, featuring the world of Red Bull BC One competitions
  
• 36 battles throughout 8 stages in story mode, plus training mode
  
• 70+ different dance animations
  
• Many un-lockable mini games and items
  
• 35 unique music tracks
  
• 3D backgrounds (basketball court, urban street, beach and more)
  
• Multiple customization options (outfits, hair, shoes and more)
  
• Battle against a friend in wireless multiplayer mode!
  
• Look for Red Bull BC One to break its way into stores September 16, 2008.
  

Gamedaily - Top 25 Xbox Games

Gamedaily Top 25 Xbox games...

01. Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic (LucasArts)
02. Halo 2 (Microsoft)
03. Ninja Gaiden (Tecmo)
04. Halo (Microsoft)

05. ESPN NFL 2K5 (Sega)
06. Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas (Rockstar Games)
07. Oddworld: Stranger's Wrath (Electronic Arts)
08. Burnout 3: Takedown (Electronic Arts)
09. Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time (Ubisoft)
10. Jet Set Radio Future (Sega)

11. Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell: Chaos Theory (Ubisoft)
12. Crimson Skies: High Road To Revenge (Microsoft)
13. SSX 3 (EA Sports Big)
14. Jade Empire (Microsoft)
15. The Chronicles of Riddick: Escape From Butcher's Bay (Vivendi Games)
16. Psychonauts (Majesco)

17. Beyond Good and Evil (Ubisoft)

18. Fable (Microsoft)
19. Mercenaries (LucasArts)
20. Panzer Dragoon Orta (Sega)

21. Dead Or Alive 3 (Tecmo)
22. Unreal Championship 2 (Midway)
23. Star Wars Battlefront II (LucasArts)
24. Project Gotham Racing 2 (Microsoft)
25. The Incredible Hulk: Ultimate Destruction (Sierra)

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