Theatre of War 2 - Africa 1943 patch version 1.1.0 release

Theatre of War 2: Africa 1943 strategy game which covers the events of 1943 in Tunisia, North Africa.

Theatre of War 2: Africa 1943 patch version 1.1.0 optimizes such game assets as objects, textures, sounds, animations and brings other minor fixes and enhancements.

The patch can be downloaded here...



Theatre of War 2: Africa 1943 1.0.0 to 1.1.0 patch
====================================

- Some large game assets (objects, textures, sounds, animations) were optimized or reworked to reduce strain on RAM and especially video memory
- RAM handling improved on 32-bit systems (see below)
- Potential crash causes fixed in several maps
- "Save As..." function added to Map Editor
- Submission text editing added to Mission Editor
- Soldier reaction time decreased
- You can now play gunfire sounds in encyclopedia (left-click on gun icon)
- Thickness of one armor sheet on Pz. IV F1 and F2 tanks corrected
- Thickness of Pz. III N gun mantlet corrected, it's price equalized with Pz. IV F1
- PaK 35/36 armor penetration data corrected
- http:// prefix removed from multiplayer server search system for compatibility with certain networks (delete old mp.ini file in 'users' folder to apply this)
- SmartPause mode customization added (see below)
- Inabilty to start multiplayer game in some circumstances fixed
- Crash while calling British mortar support fixed
- Absent Allied plane textures on some dates fixed
- Other minor fixes and enhancements

SmartPause mode customization
=====================
After patch installation messages.xml file in Data\Ai folder appears. You can edit it to customize SmartPause behavior (SmartPause mode can be turned on and off using options.exe utility or editing game.ini file in 'users' folder).

You can change reaction to following events:

Command_Incomplete - order can not be carried out and disregarded
Soldier_Death - soldier dies
Soldier_Under_Attack - soldier is under fire
Soldier_No_Ammo - soldier has no ammo left
Soldier_No_Weapon - soldier has no weapon
Soldier_No_Point_In_LOF - soldier don't have clear Line of Fire to the target
Soldier_In_Panic - soldier in panic
Vehicle_Death - vehicle destroyed
Vehicle_No_Crew - no crew in the vehicle
Artillery_Death - artillery gun or Heavy Machine Gun is destroyed
Artillery_No_Ammo - artillery gun or Heavy Machine Gun have no ammo left
Artillery_No_Point_In_LOF - artillery gun or Heavy Machine Gun don't have clear Line of Fire to the target
Tankman_Under_Attack - vehicle is under fire
Tankman_No_Ammo - vehicle have no more ammo left
Tankman_No_Weapon - all vehicle weapons are disabled
Tankman_Damage_Engine - vehicle immobilized (engine, transmission, tracks or wheels are damaged)
Tankman_Blocked - vehicle stopped because it's path is blocked
Tankman_In_Panic - vehicle crewman in panic
Tankman_No_Point_In_LOF - vehicle shooter don't have clear Line of Fire to the target
Driver_Not_Skilled - vehicle driver's skill is too low to drive (1 for own vehicles, 50 for captured enemy vehicles)
Shooter_Not_Skilled - vehicle shooter skill is too low to fire (1 for own vehicles, 50 for captured enemy vehicles)

Reaction to the event is specified in string. Possible reactions are:

NONE - do nothing
PAUSE - pause the game automatically
MOVE - instantly move the camera to event location
PAUSE_AND_MOVE - pause the game automatically and instantly move the camera to event location (default setting).

For example, if you want the camera to move to immobilized tank, but don't want the switch on automatic pause, find the section with string Tankman_Damage_Engine and change the string PAUSE_AND_MOVE to MOVE:


Tankman_Damage_Engine
Icon_Engine

60000
TRUE
10000
80
GhostWhite
MOVE



Memory compatibility mode
==================
If the game sometimes still crash during saving because of lack of allocated memory (this may happen on certain hardware configurations, especially if your OS is 32-bit Vista), you can turn on safer (but longer) save routine.
To do this, go to 'users' folder inside the game folder and edit game.ini file:

CompatibilityMode=1

(it's set to 0 by default). Please note that after that, calling menu during battle (by pressing Esc or menu button) will take several seconds and save procedure will be slightly longer.

Available immediately.

Sword of the Stars Ultimate Collection - The collection contains Sword of the Stars and the two expansion packs, Born of Blood and A Murder of Crows

Sword of the Stars Ultimate Collection is the definitive space strategy anthology for the PC, due for release in June 2009 by Ascaron Entertainment. The collection contains Sword of the Stars and the two expansion packs, Born of Blood and A Murder of Crows, offering value for money and extensive gameplay for existing fans of the series and strategy gaming enthusiasts.

In the Sword of the Stars Ultimate Collection, players can take control of six different species in a fight for galactic domination. Humans and alien creatures such as Hivers, Liirs, Tarkas, Zuuls and Morrigis each possess a unique mode of transport enabling players to move between star systems at varying speeds and in different spaceships. For example, humans can fly quickly between stars using special space lines while the hivers rely on building interdimensional gateways for direct travel to different galaxies.

Gamers can design and build spaceships from three different classes; Destroyer, Cruiser and Dreadnought. By mixing and matching a wide variety of technologies players can customise their fleets, arming them with a choice over 40 different weapons including point-defence cannons, cloaking devices and missile launchers.

Sword of the Stars
It is the year 2405 and human scientists discover a new technological system called Node Drive that allows space travel faster than light speed. However, the Hivers choose this moment to attack Earth killing 70% of the population. A military organisation called Sol Force is established allowing players to develop infrastructure, build new ships and colonise other planets to ensure the survival of the human race.

Born of Blood
Set 40 years on from Sword of the Stars in 2445, the violent wars between the Humans, Hivers, Liirs and Tarkas have subsided and diplomacy is dawning. However, the Zuuls, a species of marsupial-like creatures, emerge and shatter the peace. Players can take command of the Zuul army utilising over 90 new ship sections and 15 new weapons to obliterate enemies. Alternatively, players can unite with other races against the Zuuls using the new ship upgrades War, Projector and Boarding and a new type of defence satellite, the Torpedo Defence Platform.

A Murder of Crows
While battles against the Zuul continue, a ghost from the past returns in the form of the scheming Morrigi. A host of new features is available for players with 12 new ship sections and a unique Grav Flock Drive system so that the more ships are added to a fleet, the more speed will increase. New gameplay options include the addition of espionage operations and demands for planetary surrender.

Sword of the Stars Ultimate Collection’s multiplayer option enables players to test their skills against up to 8 others via LAN and online, battling head to head in cosmological warfare in the fight for galactic supremacy.

Fast facts:
Publisher: Ascaron Entertainment
Web: www.ascaron.com
Developer: Paradox Interactive
Release date: 12th June 2009
PEGI: 7+
Format: PC
Genre: Turn based Strategy

'Kenken: Train Your Brain!' released on Apple's iPhone

The next generation puzzle craze has made its way to the iPhone. Popularized by famed puzzle master Will Shortz and created by Tetsuya Miyamoto, KENKEN is a simple concept that’s entertaining, engaging and addictive.

• Puzzles serialized in top U.S. dailies including The New York Times.
• The evolution of sudoku.
• Puzzles designed by creator Tetsuya Miyamoto’s puzzle team.
• Varying complexities of puzzles.
• Interactive tutorial to help new players with the basics.
• Stunning graphics to capture the players’ imaginations.
• Over 250 different puzzles.

EA set to re-enter the depths of space with Dead Space: Extraction

Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ: ERTS) and its Visceral Games studio announced today that Dead Space Extraction, will be available in stores on September 29, 2009 in North America and October 2, 2009 in Europe exclusively for the Wii. Dead Space Extraction delivers the highly-polished, action-horror experience the Dead Space franchise is known for while upping the ante for technical excellence on the Wii with some of the best visuals ever showcased on the platform.

“Our team is really excited to bring the intensity of the Dead Space universe to an entire new audience,” said Executive Producer, Steve Papoutsis. “We are going to deliver the same high quality, cinematic experience we delivered in the original Dead Space, while also adding co-op, new enemies, weapons and taking advantage of all of the unique features the Wii has to offer.”

Developed at EA’s award-winning Visceral Games studio, Dead Space Extraction tells the story of a handful of space colonists desperately struggling to escape from a horrific infection on the Aegis VII mining colony deep in the furthest regions of space. The game introduces Lexine, an important new heroine, to the Dead Space universe. Players will play as the crew who falls victim to a mysterious contagion aboard the ship, with it quickly becoming clear that protecting Lexine will be their only hope for survival.

For more information about Dead Space franchise, please visit www.deadspacegame.com and get the latest from the development team at www.twitter.com/isaacclarke.

Funji Launches the First Avatar-Based Social Networking Application for the iPhone

Funji, Inc., an iPhone application company, launches the first avatar-based social networking application only for iPhone and iPod touch on May 23. While some avatar applications allow users to customize characters, Funji is the first to blend avatars and social networking only for iPhone/iPod touch users. Funji users can decorate their own avatars and rooms to show friends, save as wallpaper or publish to Facebook using FB connect. They can visit strangers' rooms to see what they have created and initiate friendships.

Funji’s comic-book style stands out from the geometric 3D virtual worlds prevalent on the web and many other iPhone applications. With Funji, users have more than 2000 possible combinations for creating their unique avatar. The customizable avatars show random dance moves when touched. Each update will feature new avatar animations for intimate and personal interaction. The background and decorative items also help to create imaginary scenes, such as a huge cupcake on the bed or pink dog on the road.

Funji will regularly update items based on a theme such as disco hall or summer vacation. While Funji is focused initially on giving users a new level of self-expression, the company is planning to expand its application to allow users to communicate with and play games with friends. Games will allow users to earn points to express themselves with unique items.

An intensive development effort was required to create animated avatars in traditional comic book style without using 3D tools. Funji is the only iPhone application that allows users to customize and animate avatars.

“Users have been thirsty for an avatar application for the iPhone that integrates with other social networks,” said Shinyoung Park, CEO of Funji, Inc. “At Funji, our goal is to satisfy users’ quest for self-expression and playful interaction with friends within the mobile environment. Funji’s offerings will move users beyond the web, leveraging the mobile platform to create a far more intimate and personal means of communication.”

The price of the Funji is $2.99. However, for a limited time, Funji is available for $0.99.

Enigma Software announces 'Music School' for Nintendo DS!

Have fun learning music theory with the great masters!!!

In Music School you can play all kinds of music and rhythm activities with your Nintendo DSi, and learn the basics of music theory applying your knowledge to different musical instruments that you can control just using your Stylus.

Mozart, Beethoven and Bach will guide you through different fun to play lessons that will help you master from the recognition of the different musical notes, to the reading of a stave, across plenty of very well known classical music master pieces.

KEY FEATURES:

• Over 10 different activities and mini-games, to master dictation, reading and rhythm
• Practice your learnings or record your own songs using 3 virtual instruments: Piano, Guitar and Flute (+15 sound banks each)
• The Great Masters will follow your evolution and progresses
• Constant and exclusive rewards, unblocking exclusive content and features for your NDSi (videoclips, gadgets, screenshots)
• Smoothly learn the basics of music theory through knowledge-pills
• Work out your musicality and skills across a series of mini-games designed to practice your sense of rhythm, your memory, your musical ear
• Exclusive tone recognition system for the NDSi Mic. Get evaluated playing real instruments or even record new sound banks!!!
• More than 30 catchy songs of very well known master pieces (styles include classical, folklore, and xmas carol)
• Enjoy playing head-to-head with your friends with multiple and original multi-player game modes

Music School is the ideal tool for introducing music theory to children and adults alike, empowering their intellectual development and appeal and enjoyment of classical music, through an easy and fun to play learning method. This original IP is aimed to become a new saga of edutainment games.

Agatha Christie adventure PC video games all three - Evil Under the Sun, And Then There Were None and Murder on the Orient Express

JoWooD has compiled the three best Agatha Christie adventures for Windows PC into one box called “Agatha Christie Mysteries“. This triple pack, containing the top sellers “Evil Under the Sun”, “And Then There Were None” and “Murder on the Orient Express”, guarantees hours of fun! Get ready to put your detective skills to the test, each story will take you by surprise, even if you’ve read the books! This triple pack will be in retail stores June 2009.

Agatha Christie: And Then There Were None
Prepare yourself for an extraordinary investigative thriller in this superb adaptation of the world’s bestselling mystery novel. 10 people, all strangers to each other, are lured to a mysterious island where the guests are murdered off…one by one. It is up to you to track down the unseen killer, be fore it’s too late.

Agatha Christie: Murder on the Orient Express
Play as a brand new character and work alongside the famous Belgian detective Hercule Poirot aboard the historic Orient Express to solve a baffling murder of one of the passengers. With a cast of colorful characters aboard this lavish train, everyone is a suspect.

Agatha Christie: Evil Under the Sun
The latest video game adaptation of the Queen of Crime’s bestselling novel Evil Under the Sun. A young and beautiful actress has just been brutally murdered on the shores of idyllic Seadrift Island and several vacationers have compelling motives. Step into the shoes of Hercule Poirot himself and put your best detective skills to the test before there is another victim!

Facts:
Platform: PC
Genre: Adventure
AgeRating: PEGI 12+

Age of Pirates 2 - City of Abandoned Ships video game out now

Sail the seas as a swashbuckling pirate or assume the role of a daring naval captain!

Playlogic, an independent worldwide publisher of entertainment software, announced today that Age of Pirates 2 - City of Abandoned Ships for Windows PC is now available at major retail outlets nationwide.

This pirate adventure role playing game (RPG) is not for the faint of heart, as neither the dead nor the seas sleep easy in this mythic land.

Age of Pirates 2: City of Abandoned Ships, the sequel to the popular Age of Pirates franchise, reinvents itself with a larger playing field and tons of exciting new content. From the game’s new combat system and trading options to its numerous quests and character classes, players will have countless hours of entertainment at their fingertips. In addition, the game’s free-roaming options expand the already massive storyline to include endless play through uncharted waters, new islands and undiscovered cities.

Players courageous enough to delve into the dangerous world of Age of Pirates 2: City of Abandoned Ships will discover treasure and adventure as they choose to go it alone and become the most feared pirate on the seven seas, or prove their loyalty and take the coin of one of four different navies; French, English, Spanish or Dutch. As players navigate their own route through the seas of the Caribbean they can explore strange new countries and undiscovered civilizations, plunder merchant ships and even raid fortified ports and cities – interacting with most characters and buildings along the way.

Players will experience tons of ship-to-ship combat and toe-to-toe clashes, as they cross paths with real-life historical characters such as Jamaican governors Colonel Thomas Lynch and Thomas Modyford. Almost everything in the game can be adjusted according to players’ wishes, making customization and resource management a key element to gameplay.

Age of Pirates 2: City of Abandoned Ships has been rated “M” for Mature by the ESRB.

Connie Talbot to promoting her Nintendo Wii video game at E3Britain’s Got Talent -

Data Design Interactive announce that Connie Talbot the singing sensation who came to fame from the massively popular UK based talent show ‘Britain’s Got Talent’ will be attending the 2009 Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3) in Los Angeles on Tuesday, 2nd June at 3pm, booth 441 to promote her highly anticipated Nintendo Wii video game “Connie Talbot Over The Rainbow Sing-a-Long” which is scheduled for summer 2009.

Its 12 tracks include songs from her debut album, 'Over The Rainbow', but with specially designed videos and backscene footage. Players can sing solo in karaoke mode or with friends and family members for some multiplayer fun.

Since her unforgettable appearance in 2007 on ‘Britain's Got Talent’, Connie Talbot is undoubtedly the original breakout ‘superstar find’ from the show. Now a ‘whole’ 8-years-old, Connie continues to build on her global success, with the most recent achievement being state side, as music from her debut album, ‘Over the Rainbow’ (AAO Music/Reality) delivers hit after hit.

The album’s second single in the US—a gorgeous rendition of the classic ‘I Will Always Love You,’ is currently at the 6 position on the Billboard Hot Singles charts. It follows the success of her first single, a cover of Bob Marley’s popular ‘Three Little Birds’ which previously reached #1 on the Billboard Chart.

‘I Will Always Love You,’ most often associated with Whitney Houston, has a deep personal meaning to the young singer, as her grandmother, "Nan," sang it to Connie when she was a baby. The single also features the newly re-vocaled "You Raise Me Up,’ the track that closes ‘Over the Rainbow’. Sales of the album are stronger than ever as music fans continue to discover the young singer who has already charmed not only Mr. Cowell and his fellow judges, but the likes of US chat show Queens, Oprah Winfrey and Ellen DeGeneres.
Connie’s album ‘Over the Rainbow’ will be available in the UK as a re release on 8th June nationwide in store.

Early May saw Connie embark on a promo trip of the US – appearing on several high profile US chat shows, with a action packed promo trip to Tokyo planned for June, to launch her album to the Japanese market. The album has already been released in Asia, selling over 100,000 units in Hong Kong, Singapore, Taiwan, Korea and the Philippines, with Gold and Platinum awards being received in all Asian territories released in.

KINGDOM HEARTS 358/2 DAYS will be released across PAL territories this Autumn on Nintendo DS

Square Enix announce that KINGDOM HEARTS 358/2 DAYS will be released across PAL territories this Autumn on Nintendo DS.

With more than 12 million copies shipped worldwide, the KINGDOM HEARTS series is one of the most beloved RPGs in video game history. Disney and FINAL FANTASY characters unite in a magical game world, engaging players across the globe with its gripping storyline and action-packed gameplay.

The series continues with KINGDOM HEARTS 358/2 DAYS. Follow Roxas, the “other” hero from KINGDOM HEARTS II, and discover more about his days as a member of the mysterious Organization XIII. What is the connection between Roxas and Sora? Who is the mysterious 14th member and what were the reasons for his eventual departure from the organization? KINGDOM HEARTS 358/2 DAYS adds one other exciting and essential component to the fun, being the first KINGDOM HEARTS game to offer a multiplayer mode.

John Yamamoto, president and chief executive officer of Square Enix Ltd. comments, “KINGDOM HEARTS continues to bring joy to players around the world. With KINGDOM HEARTS 358/2 DAYS I am delighted to be revisiting the wonderful worlds of Disney and very pleased to see the addition of a multiplayer mode. I am sure fans will find this an exciting and essential entry in the series.”

For more information about KINGDOM HEARTS 358/2 DAYS, please visit the official website at www.kingdomheartsdays.com

About KINGDOM HEARTS 358/2 DAYS

Story

-Twilight Town-
Roxas and Axel were watching the sunset from their usual spot on the station's clock tower after a long day of collecting "hearts" from the Heartless, as ordered by their organization. When their daily work ended, they often spent their evenings there. They talked about the day's work and other things over ice cream.

"Do you know why the sun looks red as it sinks below the horizon? It's because among the countless colours comprising light, red travels the greatest distance."

"You're just trying to show off, Axel!"

It was idle chatter between two boys without hearts.
This is the untold story of Organization XIII's Roxas.

Features

• World-renowned creator and character designer Tetsuya Nomura and his team once again unite the magical world of Disney with the characters of FINAL FANTASY, inviting fans to an enchanting gaming experience

• Multiplayer Mode – for the first time in KINGDOM HEARTS. Four players can team-up as their favourite Organization XIII members

• Fully 3D environments and characters, gigantic boss battles and an orchestral soundtrack push the Nintendo DS capabilities to the full

• A wide variety of missions to complete across a range of huge worlds. Lots to explore including Standard Missions, Trial Missions and multiplayer Mission Mode

• Limit Breaks! The special near-death ability from FINAL FANTASY VII is brought to the world of KINGDOM HEARTS allowing for explosive special attacks

• Panel System – organise your weapons, spells, abilities and even levels with this new system that makes you strategically think about what you can carry