Burnout 3D the future of video games?

Racing game Burnout Paradise is one of the first big commercial games to be produced in 3D, using brand new technology. At the moment, it is early days, but game developers are hoping it could transform the market.

"Before we saw it, we were sceptical," says Doug McConkey, of Criterion Games, the people behind Burnout Paradise 3D.

"We were blown away when we saw it. We just couldn't really take it in. Totally unexpected, a really refreshing surprise and something we're really excited about."

The technology making this possible is being pioneered by tech firm NVIDIA. This is their GeForce 3D graphics card and glasses powering the experience.

Buying their kit will cost you around $200 but you'll also need a top notch monitor to make it all work.

Currently, all the kit you need is being offered in a bundle for around $600 in the US. It's a fair bit of money in a recession but not beyond the realms of possibility for serious gamers.

But the future for 3D gaming looks bright. So bright, you'll need to wear shades.

You can see the Sky News piece here.

To get more info on the Nvidia 3D Vision go here.

Name your child Jason and win a year's worth of games...

Leading videogame publisher Codemasters is embarking on a quest to re-populate the nation with Jasons.

The firm, whose videogame Rise of the Argonauts launched on February 6th 2009, is looking to knock Jack, Thomas, Oliver and Joshua from the top of the UK’s favourite boys' names by encouraging parents to name their sons after the game’s hero.

The name ‘Jason’ is from Greek origin, meaning “healer”. It has been considered an English name since the 17th Century, yet – whilst it consistently ranks as one of the US’s most popular names – its popularity has faded in the UK over recent years, dropping down out of the top 50.

It’s now time to bring it back: Codemasters’ goal is to elevate Jason’s ranking in the end-of-year boys names, issued in December 2009.

Over the coming weeks, Codemasters will be running editorial at www.bringbackjason.com in an effort to rejuvenate the popularity of the name. The blog will look at naming and social trends as well as asking: just what has the UK got against Jasons these days?

Any parent who names their new son “Jason” will be eligible to win a year’s supply of the firm’s videogames on their chosen platform. All they have to do is fax, post or email a copy of the birth certificate to bringbackjason@codemasters.com for the opportunity to enter the prize draw. *

“These days, babies names are influenced by celebrities – and there aren’t that many famous Jasons any more,” says Richard Eddy, Director of Communications, Codemasters. “We hope our Rise of the Argonauts hero can act as a ‘virtual’ star, encouraging new parents to rejuvenate this one-great English name. Jasons, friends of Jasons, and anyone interested in onomastics should keep an eye on the blog over the coming weeks, as we document our quest to re-populate the nation with Jasons.”

Rise of the Argonauts is available now 2009 for the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, the PLAYSTATION 3 computer entertainment system and the PC.

The campaign to bring back Jason can be followed at www.bringbackjason.com

Metal Gear Solid 4 - Guns of the Patriots low price version out March 5th

Hideo Kojima’s PLAYSTATION 3 classic returns for budget outing

Konami Digital Entertainment has announced that its heralded PLAYSTATION 3 epic Metal Gear Solid 4 - Guns of the Patriots will be released as part of the budget Platinum range from March 5th.

With a new RRP of 29,95 Euro, Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots returns following an incredible period as a full-price title. The game saw over three million copies shipped on its release in June 2008 and has won a host of illustrious awards all over the globe, and its continued success saw sales of the long-running Metal Gear series top 26.5 million units.

Concluding Hideo Kojima’s Metal Gear Solid saga, Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots is set in a battle-scarred future where huge conglomerates fight for supremacy using armies of hand-picked mercenaries. This devastated world is seen through the battle-weary eyes of an older Solid Snake who has been charged with infiltrating a number of key locations across the globe, including the Middle East, South America and Eastern Europe. As such, the epic end to Snake’s story offers ground-breaking combat elements, a refined control system that offers unprecedented control over the aged hero, and the tying up of key plot lines and loose ends.

Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots comes on a Blu-Ray disc containing it and Kojima Productions’ Metal Gear Online – a dedicated online title that uses locations and gameplay elements from Guns of the Patriots. Metal Gear Online features all the stunning stealth and combat elements of Guns of the Patriots, as it drops the player into a series of war zones and game options. With all-out ‘Last Man Standing’ battles to rescue and protection missions, Metal Gear Online effortlessly transfers the sublime control system of the series to an online competition, creating an absorbing battle between like-minded fans. Kojima Productions is also committed to constantly updating Metal Gear Online, with a wealth of new options already available and more to follow.

Both games form a stunning conclusion to Hideo Kojima’s involvement in the final chapter to the Solid Snake saga, and the new low price will open the game world to a new army of fans.

“Metal Gear Solid 4: guns of the Patriots has proved to be an outstanding title, and its many awards and accolades are testament to this,” commented Martin Schneider, European Marketing Director for Konami Digital Entertainment GmbH. “With the PLAYSTATION®3 user base growing at a rapid rate, this welcome re-release for an all-new price will give this growing community a chance to get to grips with one of the most innovative, testing and varied title for the format.”

Win an Xbox 360 - Brand-new "X-Blades" competition with great prizes!

TopWare Entertainment and the Fan Page www.insidexblades.de are about to host a fantastic competition with super prizes for creative gamers!

Participants can choose from three categories - Best "X-Blades" Video, Most Appealing "X-Blades" Wallpaper and Funniest "X-Blades" Comic. The first three winners in each group will receive a special Ayumi package - and the best from all categories will win the main prize - an Xbox 360 video gaming and entertainment system by Microsoft.

You'll find lots more info at www.insidexblades.de.

Galaxy Online: Alpha Test Date Advancing

IGG announced the Alpha Test of Galaxy Online will start at 9:00pm EST (GMT-5) on February 23rd and last until 9:00pm EST (GMT-5) March 2nd, which is one week in total.

The server name is Aries.

There are two main goals for this test. One is to perfect the game and the other is to prepare for the upcoming Closed Beta Test.

During the test, many fun-filled events, such as “the King of the Newbie’s Contest” and the “Guilds are Wanted” events, will offer big rewards and lots of fun in the game and in the forum. Players are more than welcome to join these events.

Notes: All testers' character data will be kept after the Alpha Beta Test

Myth War II Online: New Avatar and New Version Release

It has been a long and impatient journey for all Myth War fans that have been waiting for the latest news on the new version. The most highly anticipated aspect of the game is probably the new reborn 2 avatars. Not only do they have that to look forward to, but the new version 1.0.4.30, will finally be available on February 19th.

As the new version gets up and running, players will be anxious to see the new avatar designs. All of them are displayed in brilliant color with dazzling effects, and smoother animation. Character’s who have reached reborn 2 status will have their names displayed in purple. Come join us for the next chapter in the ongoing story of Myth War!

To stay up to date, check here...

Client downloads

Tales of Pirates - Maze-Cross-Harbor Tunnel Guide

The folks at Tales of Pirates want to tell you about the Cross-Harbor Tunnel. It is a fun underwater world on Spring Town with various kinds of cute little monsters. But be careful of their attacks! Players above level 65 can make a team and travel that mysterious Cross-Harbor Tunnel!

Guide of the Maze:

• Step 1: look for the underground Watercourse of Spring Town.
  
• Step 2: get through the maze after entering the underground Watercourse to reach the entrance of the Cross-Harbor Tunnel.
  
• Step 3: get into Cross-Harbor Tunnel
  

The maze monsters:

• Level 62 Long Hair Crab has Binding Skill, and drops the items: Long Hair Crab Pincer, Long Hair Shell, Tinder, Pink Crystal, Hurricane Vest, Lucky Bunny Muffs etc. (The Tinder can be used to resist Baby Icy Dragon’s Frost Breath.)
  
• Level 68 Cursed Water Fairy has Cursing Skill, and drops the items: Whirlpool Boots, Rattlesnake, Revival Clover, Arista etc. (The Arista can be used to resist Long Hair Crab’s Binding.)
  
• Level 65 Baby Icy Dragon has Frost Breath Skill, and drops the items: Cursed Bone, Blessed Shield, Protector Robe etc. (The Cursed Bone can be used to resist Cursed Water Fairy’s Curse.)
  
• The Level 75 Icy Dragon is a BOSS, guarded by many Cursed Water Fairies. We suggest players kill the little critters around first before killing the BOSS, because if they are cursed, it will decrease their Defense by about 100 points. After killing the Icy Dragon, players will obtain a Dragon's Tear, a level 75 Bow of Dusk and Faerie Gloves etc. (Dragon's Tear is a prop which grants players an attractive quest after use. But players need to explore it themselves. )
  

DisneyXD.com online games, video and mobile features for kids

Site Plays Key Interactive Role for Rebranded Television Channel and Builds on Company's Casual Games Strategy

Disney Online, part of the Disney Interactive Media Group, today introduced DisneyXD.com, the online and mobile Web destination for the new Disney entertainment brand designed to appeal to kids and tween boys. An abundance of action-based games, full-length video and customizable community features populate the site focused heavily on themes of adventure, accomplishment, gaming, music and sports.

“The mutual introduction of the new Disney XD network and online entertainment destination is a ground-breaking partnership among Disney Channels Worldwide, the Digital Media team at ABC Cable Networks Group and Disney Online that delivers a truly cross platform and fully integrated experience,” said Paul Yanover, Executive Vice President and General Manager, Disney Online. “Disney XD leverages the creativity and power of Disney Channel and the digital expertise of Disney.com to deliver great programming and interactive entertainment.”

DisneyXD.com is ad supported and will continuously roll out new, advanced features to ensure a fresh, fun experience every time Guests log on. At launch, features of the site include:

• Games Driven Environment: DisneyXD.com features a vast selection of action, adventure and sports themed game, which are a mixture of those branded upon Disney XD properties (such as Aaron Stone, Phineas and Ferb and Kid Vs. Kat) and popular licensed games boys like to play.
  
• Rich Video Content: Full-length episodes of Disney XD live-action and animated series, music- and sports-themed shows are available online all day, every day. DisneyXD.com also features exclusive online-only videos.
  
• Custom 3D Avatars: Guests can create a unique avatar representation of themselves – complete with animated poses. Points earned by playing games and completing special adventures allow Guests to receive exclusive collectible items (some with TV-branded themes) to transform themselves.
  
• Active Community: Each week, the DisneyXD.com hosted community will feature Guests who have completed online challenges or who have achieved high scores on game leaderboards. Players can also chat with their friends and explore player profiles that display high scores, trophies and rank.
  
• Multi-Platform Access: Fans can take Disney XD with them anywhere by texting XD to DISNEY (347639) and get first look access to games, videos and more – including one-of-a-kind wallpapers and ringtones.
  

The dynamic gaming content on DisneyXD.com is the latest addition to Disney Online’s growing portfolio of casual game offerings, which include a unique mixture of original content and licensed games, designed for kids, tweens and their parents. The constantly evolving and relevant portfolio of high-quality, compelling casual games allow fans to more deeply engage and interact with their favorite Disney characters and shows. According to a recent analysis by ComScore, Inc., Disney Games ranked third among online gaming destination with 13.4 million visitors in December 2008, and had a reported traffic

increase of 13 percent from the previous year. According to the data, online gaming usage in the U.S. grew 27 percent over the past year to 86 million visitors in December 2008. Moreover, the total time spent playing online games increased by 42 percent.

The simultaneous rollout of the Disney XD channel on Feb. 13 will include a cross-platform on-air, online and mobile broadcast of the new original series, "Aaron Stone," and will feature a special online challenge where players can earn points to unlock the “Aaron Stone” battle suit for their avatar’s wardrobe. More information and details can be found online at www.DisneyXD.com.

About Disney XD
Disney XD, launching Friday, February 13, is a basic cable channel and multi-platform brand that will showcase live-action and animated programming for kids age 6-14, hyper-targeting boys and their quest for discovery, accomplishment, sports, adventure and humor. Disney XD branded content will span television, online, mobile and VOD platforms. The programming includes series, movies and short-form, as well as sports-themed programming developed with ESPN. In the U.S., Disney XD will premiere on a 24-hour, advertiser supported network (currently known as Toon Disney) that reaches over 72 million households via its basic cable affiliates.

Watchmen - The end is nigh voice-over talent announced

Stars of Upcoming Watchmen Film Patrick Wilson and Jackie Earle Haley to Reprise Their Roles, Bringing Characters to Lifein an Action Brawler Videogame

Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment is proud to announce that Patrick Wilson and Jackie Earle Haley, stars of the upcoming Watchmen film, will lend their voices to the long-form downloadable videogame Watchmen: The End is Nigh. Developed by Deadline Games and published by Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment, Watchmen: The End is Nigh will feature the voices of Patrick Wilson as Nite Owl, a refined fighter well-versed in martial arts and cutting-edge gadgetry, and Jackie Earle Haley as Rorschach, a feral, streetwise fighter who can disarm enemies and use their own weapons against them.

A prequel to the Watchmen film directed by Zack Snyder, the videogame Watchmen: The End is Nigh will be released on March 4, 2009, two days before the movie opens in theaters nationwide. Watchmen: The End is Nigh extends the film experience and will delve into the characters, rivalries and challenges in a mature action-brawler. The game explores the crime-fighting partnership of urban vigilantes Nite Owl and Rorschach, who track and beat down criminals to uncover a dangerous conspiracy.

Watchmen: The End is Nigh will be released on Xbox LIVE Arcade for the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and PC, and on March 5, 2009 on the PlayStation Network

Please visit the official Watchmen: The End is Nigh website at http://www.watchmenvideogame.com. Give your readers an early glimpse at Watchmen: The End is Nigh by posting the news to your site!

ABOUT “WATCHMEN”: Opening nationwide on March 6, 2009, “Watchmen” is a complex, multi-layered mystery adventure, “Watchmen” is set in an alternate 1985 America in which costumed superheroes are part of the fabric of everyday society, and the Doomsday Clock—which charts the USA’s tension with the Soviet Union—moves closer to midnight. When one of his former colleagues is murdered, the outlawed but no less determined masked vigilante Rorschach uncovers a wide-ranging and disturbing conspiracy with catastrophic consequences for the future.

Warner Bros. Pictures and Paramount Pictures present, in Association with Legendary Pictures, a Lawrence Gordon/Lloyd Levin Production, a Zack Snyder Film, “Watchmen.” The film stars Malin Akerman, Billy Crudup, Matthew Goode, Carla Gugino, Jackie Earle Haley, Jeffrey Dean Morgan and Patrick Wilson. “Watchmen” is directed by Zack Snyder and produced by Lawrence Gordon, Lloyd Levin and Deborah Snyder. The screenplay is by David Hayter and Alex Tse, based upon the graphic novel co-created and illustrated by Dave Gibbons and published by DC Comics. Herbert W. Gains and Thomas Tull are the executive producers, with Wesley Coller serving as co-producer.

DC Comics, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company, is the largest English-language publisher of comics in the world and home to such iconic characters as Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman and the Sandman. These DC Super Heroes and others have starred in comic books, movies, television series (both animated and live-action) and cyberspace, thrilling audiences of all ages for generations. DC Comics’ Web site is located at www.dccomics.com.

WATCHMEN and all related characters and elements are trademarks of and © DC Comics.

Battle Group Commander - Episode One! Brand New Game Series From ProSIM Company!

In a gaming world obsessed with the big Dubya Dubya Two one developer, ProSIM Company, has represented the spearhead in providing gamers with exciting alternatives in the form of the ultimate in modern land combat simulations. From the early days of BCT Commander to their latest title, Air Assault Task Force, ProSIM has given PC gamers the very best in real time simulations, allowing players to fight in North Korea, the Middle East, Afghanistan, Somalia, and more using today's tools of conflict. Their titles have changed the way gamers view real time gaming and what a wargame actually can deliver, and in 2009 ProSIM is once again ready to set the wargaming world on fire.

Publisher Shrapnel Games and developer ProSIM Company are extremely proud to announce the launch of a brand new episodic series of modern warfare simulations for the PC entitled Battle Group Commander. A Battle Group is a British Army term for a battalion-sized formation that brings together armor, infantry, artillery and other assets into a combined arms team.

Battle Group Commander: Episode One is designed by Gary Bezant, former member of the British Army and designer of the controversial ProSIM title, The Falklands War: 1982 (also published by Shrapnel Games). Episode One allows players to step into the boots of a Battle Group Commander (imagine that!) and fight a Soviet-style enemy in the Salisbury Plain Training Area of England (analogous to the NTC in the US). No word yet on whether steaks will also be involved.

Powered by the Air Assault Task Force engine, Battle Group Commander: Episode One gives players everything they've come to expect from a ProSIM title. Players can command units individually or by company in pausable real time. Detailed weapons modeling allowing for individual weapon destruction. Terrain that is derived from real world digital elevation mapping. Intuitive GUI. Aggressive AI that uses a variety of operational plans for great replayability. Realism and playability, the dream of every wargamer, all found in Battle Group Commander: Episode One.

What's most exciting though about Battle Group Commander: Episode One is the episodic nature of the series. Priced at a very affordable $14.95 and available as a direct download, it is a perfect way in these challenging economic times to enjoy quality wargaming without breaking the bank.

Episode One contains four scenarios and supports both single and multi-player gaming. As a standalone product new players can enjoy the simulation, with a detailed web-based tutorial, streamlined yet comprehensive electronic manual, and pre-set scenario planning. Veterans of ProSIM games will find that although made more noob-friendly, Battle Group Commander: Episode One boasts all the detail you're used to. Nothing has been "dumbed down", and in fact owners of Air Assault Task Force (or the older Armored Task Force) can install Battle Group Commander: Episode One and gain access to all the units and the map found in the new title!

So, not only is Battle Group Commander: Episode One an exciting standalone digital wargame that hearkens back to days of the cardboard microgame (big gaming for very little money), it's also the equivalent of an expansion for owners of Air Assault Task Force or Armored Task Force! A win-win for both new and old fans alike!

Future episodes in the Battle Group Commander series will feature British operations in other settings and situations. Later this year another series will launch, March To Baghdad, whose episodes will cover Operation Iraqi Freedom.

For more information on Battle Group Commander: Episode One please visit its official product page. Please note that since this is an episodic release there will not be an official demo for the title. To experience the engine it is based upon please download the demo for Air Assault Task Force, found here.

Battle Group Commander: Episode One is available for Windows and only as a direct download. It is priced at just $14.95.