Ubisoft expands into China

Ubisoft, one of the world’s largest video game publishers, announces the opening of a new video game development studio in Chengdu, Sichuan, China. Richard Tsao, senior producer at Ubisoft’s Shanghai studio, has been appointed managing director of the new studio. Ubisoft Chengdu will initially focus on internal outsourcing and in time will be responsible for developing online titles for PC, consoles and handhelds.

The opening of the new studio was celebrated today at a signing ceremony with Yves Guillemot, chief executive officer of Ubisoft, as well as the Party Secretary of Chengdu Hi-Tech Zone, Mr. Jing Gang and Mr. Han Chun Lin, Director of Chengdu’s Hi-Tech Zone.

Following on its history of success in China, with Ubisoft’s Shanghai studio already the second-largest Ubisoft development team in the world, the new studio in Chengdu will open its doors in Tianfu Software Park with 10 team members and the goal of expanding to 200 developers over the next year. Chengdu, with over 35,000 software programming graduates per year, is one of the most technologically developed cities in Western China, offering long-term growth opportunities based on a talented and highly educated local population. With its cutting-edge infrastructure and a local Hi-Tech Zone, Chengdu attracts international companies from all over the world and will provide a perfect environment for Ubisoft to establish an outstanding development studio.

“The success of our studio in Shanghai, which has been further confirmed with the launch of Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter 2 for the PLAYSTATION 3 system, has encouraged us to extend our growth in China,” said Christine Burgess-Quémard, executive director, Worldwide Studios at Ubisoft. “We are convinced that Chengdu offers the perfect environment for our expansion, offering a great number of highly educated and talented people.”

Richard Tsao’s career in games development began at Microsoft, where he helped to ship games such as Dungeon Siege and Mech Warrior 4. He then moved to Crytek, shipping Far Cry® and managing pre-production for Crysis before coming to Ubisoft Shanghai where he was most recently responsible for projects including Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter® 2 for the PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system. Before video games, Rich gathered a decade of development experience as a technical project manager and programmer for various client/server software projects, including deploying the first online billing system for MSN Internet access service.

Ubisoft was the first major developer to establish itself in China, opening a development studio in Shanghai in 1996. Ubisoft’s Shanghai studio, managed by Corinne Leroy, has developed internationally renowned games including Tom Clancy’s Splinter Cell Pandora Tomorrow® for the Xbox® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, which reached No. 1 shortly after its release in 2004. The studio celebrated its 10th anniversary last year and the team is currently developing an entirely new franchise, Tom Clancy’s EndWar™, which will release in 2008.

10000 Retailers will open for Halo 3 midnight launch

More than 10,000 retailers in the United States alone are expected to open their doors at midnight on September 25 to begin selling Halo 3.

One million copies of the game have already been pre-ordered in North America. The company also recently announced pricing for a Halo 3-themed Xbox 360 console.

Halo 2 sold 2.4 million copies and earned up to US 125 million in its first 24 hours on store shelves. Microsoft expects Halo 3's launch to shatter its predecessor's day-one entertainment sales record.

In what Microsoft has dubbed the "Unite to Fight" launch week, regional events will be held at retailers in locations including New York City, Seattle, Los Angeles, and Miami, allowing gamers a chance to win merchandise and play the game with local celebrities.

In the US, Best Buy will be making Xbox LIVE Gold free for everyone during the first three days of Halo 3's availability. From September 25 through September 27, everyone with an Xbox 360 and a broadband connection can become an Xbox LIVE Gold member and experience Halo 3 online.

Microsoft will be giving away 8,000 points during this free Xbox LIVE period to 144 randomly-selected people. Those winners will also receive a chance to win one of two grand prizes, which include a Halo-themed Pontiac GXP Street Edition valued at USD 28,000 and a Samsung home theater entertainment system valued at USD 3,499.97.

Pontiac itself has teamed up with Microsoft to provide 1,000 lucky winners a copy of Halo 3 before it's available in stores with their "First to Own" promotion. Meanwhile, at the NASCAR Dover 400 on September 23rd, David Stremme will be driving the number 40 Target/Halo 3 inspired race car.

Microsoft has also announced Game with Fame sessions during the first week of Halo 3's launch, allowing gamers to play against their favorite actors, bands, and sports stars over Xbox LIVE. Bungie's Halo 3 development team will also be on Xbox LIVE during launch week, giving gamers a chance to play against the talent behind the game.

Finally, a new Xbox 360 Halo 3 theme and gamerpic will be available for Xbox LIVE Gold members only during launch week.

Source: GamesIndustry

Colin McRae - Star of Video Game Franchise - Dies in Helicopter Crash

Colin McRae, winner of 25 World Rally Championships and star of video game franchises, was killed in a helicopter crash Saturday along with his 5-year-old son, 6-year-old Ben Porcelli and 37-year-old Graeme Duncan. The 39 year old McRae was piloting said helicopter which he owned and was licensed to fly, when it crashed into a wooded area near his home in Scotland. According to police, the aircraft was badly burned, making it impossible for officials to immediately identify the occupants.McRae’s career spans the World Rally Championship from 1987 until 2004, the Paris to Dakar rally, the Le Mans 24 hour race, the Race of Champions and the X Games. McRae’s success on the rally circuit led to a computer game “Colin McRae Rally,” first released in 1998, which is now found on PlayStation, Game Boy, Xbox and PSP platforms - and most recently DiRT for the PC, PS3, and Xbxo 30.

“He was really daring, always pushing it further,” Formula One driver Heikki Kovalainen said. “I always liked his attitude. It was maximum attack always and he had some big rolls sometimes. Every time he had one, though it was like: ‘Oh well, it’s just a roll,’ and he just carried on.”

McRae received an MBE award in 1996 from Queen Elizabeth II. He was married and also has a daughter.

The staff at Gaming Today would like everyone to please keep Colin’s family and the families of Graeme Duncan and Ben Porcelli in your thoughts and prayers as they go through the trying times ahead. It will be hard enough to deal with the loss of Colin and Graeme, but even more difficult due to the fact that young children were involved.
AP

Colin McRae, 1968 – 2007

Everyone at Codemasters, especially those who worked directly with Colin McRae, is deeply shocked and saddened by the tragic events of this weekend.

The loss of Colin McRae is deeply distressing. That it involved his son and another so young makes it even more tragic. Our thoughts are with his family and those closest to him and we share in their pain.

For over ten years, Colin was part of the Codemasters family and it was a privilege to have a man recognised as a true legend on the team. He always took a keen interest in the game experience, wanting to make sure it was without equal in its portrayal of the sport.

His contribution was inspirational and brought his technical expertise and passion for rally driving to each and every McRae game. Through the popularity of those games, he brought a whole new audience to the sport itself.

Codemasters’ relationship with Colin began through Jim, David and Richard Darling and their condolences, along with ours, are passed to Colin’s family. We are heavy of heart at his passing but we are also brimming with pride at knowing him and to have played a small role in his life.

He will never be forgotten by all at Codemasters.

The Colin McRae series of video games:
Developed and published by Codemasters in partnership with Colin McRae, the McRae games now form a 9 million+ selling series. The first game, Colin McRae Rally, was published in the summer of 1998 for the PlayStation and PC. It became an international best-seller and set a benchmark for rally video games that only its sequels could better. Colin McRae Rally 2.0, for the PlayStation and PC, followed in 2000, with Colin McRae Rally 3, for the PlayStation 2 and PC, in 2002.

With Colin’s input, the series continued to evolve with an ever growing variety of car makes and classes, stages and countries featured through the games of 2003 and 2004, Colin McRae Rally 04 and Colin McRae Rally 2005 respectively (PlayStation 2, Xbox and PC).

Most recently, the series diversified further, mirroring Colin’s own participation in a broader range of motor sports, with year’s title: Colin McRae: DiRT. Published in June for the Xbox 360 and PC, and most recently for the PlayStation 3, Colin McRae: DiRT has players competing in off-road races on gravel, mud and dirt tracks all over the world. www.codemasters.co.uk

Colin McRae’s website – www.colinmcrae.com – is now hosting Messages of Condolence http://www.colinmcrae.com/condolences.asp

Project Gotham Racing 4

Update For All Project Gotham Racing Fans!
Racing For The Gold! "Project Gotham Racing 4" Goes Gold

New game web site launches as the latest installment of the legendary racing series gets set to release exclusively on Xbox 360 on 12th October 2007

Microsoft Game Studios and Bizarre Creations today announced that “Project Gotham Racing 4” (“PGR 4”), the latest installment of the best-selling and award-winning racing franchise, has been released to manufacturing. The team also confirmed that the game’s new web site is up and running. Fans can now visit http://www.pgrnations.com for all the latest news, features and updates from the “PGR” universe and the team at Bizarre.

Set to redefine the experience “PGR” fans have come to know and love, “PGR 4” is set to race onto store shelves on 12th October. Featuring a unique, exciting racing experience where dramatic racing action is captured in breathtaking cinematic style, “PGR 4” is sure to capture the attention of racing fans everywhere. The all new addition of motorcycles adds a new dimension to the “PGR” driving experience by allowing gamers to compete and pull off amazing driving manoeuvres not possible on four wheels.

The official “PGR 4” web site at http://www.pgrnations.com contains the most recent news and updates in the Project Gotham universe. Currently, the web site is the home to the game’s full robust vehicles list, including models from the world’s top car and motorcycle manufacturers, as well as the official Achievements list. The site will be continually updated to give fans a true home base with all the “PGR 4” information and content they’re looking for.

From the inspired minds at Bizarre Creations, “PGR 4” offers franchise fans and new players alike exciting new ways to race over Xbox LIVE. “PGR 4” allows drivers to build a global racing community through team-oriented gameplay while making it easy to find their favourite races, friends, ghosts, replays or photos. Additional improvements to the unique Kudos rewards system provides gamers with more incentives to show off their distinctive driving styles including the ability to purchase new vehicles, game modes, gamerpics and more at the “PGR” Shop. “PGR 4” will be available at retailers nationwide on 12th October for an estimated retail price of £44.99.

Pokémon Diamond/Pearl

DISCOVER THE ULTIMATE POKÉMON TRADING DATABASE!

Over 10 million people globally are enjoying the phenomenon that is Pokémon Diamond and Pokémon Pearl and in Europe, 1.6 million copies have been sold in just 7 weeks since launch. For the first time in the Pokémon series, these games have allowed fans to trade Pokémon with anyone in the world via the Global Trading Station, using the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection service. Now an all-new and exciting Pokémon service is being made available, as fans are invited to visit the Pokémon GTS website - www.pokemon-gts.net - where they can keep up-to-date on the global Pokémon trade.

From Friday 14th September, 5pm CET, the Pokémon GTS website will be the place to go for fans across the globe, giving them access to top trading information such as the most traded Pokémon, most deposited and wanted Pokémon at the Global Trading Station, as well as discovering which Pokémon are being traded most in each country. The top 50 most traded Pokémon, as well the top 50 most wanted and most deposited Pokémon in the world.

Trying to work out which Pokémon are the best to collect? Using the GTS site, you can simply click on the image of the Pokémon being traded to gain all the information you could ever need, including Pokémon name, type, moves learnt and the time, date and country it was deposited in. What’s more, users have the opportunity to bookmark any Pokémon discovered, adding them to a ‘favourites’ folder to look out for next time they visit the GTS in Pokémon Diamond or Pokémon Pearl.

Using the interactive globe element, users can rotate and research Pokémon trading action from many parts of the world. By simply spinning the globe and clicking an area of interest, users can find out more details about the Pokémon but also discover facts about many countries, including capital city, population, language spoken and local greetings!

So log on and discover a whole new world of trading everyone’s favourite Pokémon! Visit www.pokemon-gts.net from 14th September.

Madden NFL '08 scores high

More than 2 million units sold

The NPD Group has released the US hardware and software sales figures for August 2007, with EA's Madden NFL '08 dominating the charts.

The Xbox 360 version of the game was number one, with 896,600 units sold, followed by the PlayStation 2 version, with 643,600 units sold. The PlayStation 3 version of the game sold 336,200 units, which was good enough for fourth place overall.

The Wii, Xbox, and PSP versions of Madden NFL '08 were in eleventh, twelfth, and eighteenth place, respectively.

Bioshock, which is atop the charts in other countries, came in third with 490,900 units sold.

Three Wii games--Wii Play, Metroid Prime 3, and Mario Strikers: Charged--took the fifth, sixth, and seventh positions on the charts. Mario Party 8, also for the Wii, was in the ninth spot.

Guitar Hero II for the PS2, with the guitar controller, sold 145,400 units and was in eighth place. The follow-up, Guitar Hero Encore: Rocks the 80s for PS2, made tenth place on the charts with sales of 127,100 units. The Xbox 360 version of Guitar Hero II was in seventeenth place on the August sales chart.

Hardware-wise, Nintendo continues to dominate, with an estimated 403,600 Wii consoles and 383,300 DS handhelds sold in the US in August.

Microsoft sold 276,700 Xbox 360 consoles on the strength of a price cut, with Sony selling 130,600 PlayStation 3 consoles. Sony also sold 202,000 PlayStation 2 consoles and 151,200 PSP handhelds.

Overall, videogame hardware and software sales were up 46 per cent from the same period last year.

Sony could cut prices as Halo 3 spoiler

Price reduction would continue overall market growth for '07

Wedbush Morgan analyst Michael Pachter believes Sony couldn't pick a better time or place to announce further price cuts for the PS3 and PS2 than next week's Tokyo Game Show.

Not only would a much-rumoured price announcement take some of the shine off rival Microsoft's Halo 3 launch on September 25, but it would also help the US industry see a further increase in sales for the rest of 2007.

"There have been recent rumours about a new 40GB PS3 sku planned for release prior to the holidays at a USD 399 price point, and other rumours about an impending PS2 price cut to USD 99," noted Pachter.

"We think that both of these ideas have merit, and note that SCE president Kaz Hirai is the keynote speaker at next week’s Tokyo Game Show. If the rumours are true, we cannot think of a better forum for making such an announcement, given that the event is less than a week before the launch of arch rival Microsoft’s Halo 3.

"Should Sony cut prices, we think that continued strong industry sales are all but certain," he added.

Recent figures from the NPD Group have shown that sales of the PlayStation 3 are trailing the Wii and Xbox 360 in North America – with Xbox 360 sales double that of the PS3 in August.

Pachter also estimates that Halo 3 will sell over 3 million units in the US in 12 days, helping to drive Xbox 360 console sales over 400,000 in the month of September.

Link

Japan sees hardware sales slump

Console units shifting less than half of numbers compared to last month

Japan's hardware sales have taken a nosedive in the past month, with some platforms now selling fewer than half the numbers of just four weeks ago.

According to figures from Media Create, last week's console sales were the lowest for many months, with top-seller Nintendo DS shifting fewer than 100,000 units for the second week in a row.

It sold 77,488 last week, compared to 153,834 during the week ending August 19, with almost all the other consoles dropping by a similar proportion.

The Wii sold 29,088 last week compared to an August high of 73,938, the PlayStation Portable sold just 15,564 - down from 33,715 four weeks ago - and the PlayStation 3 also fell by around 40 percent, from 21,720 units to 13,248.

Usually it would be possible to point to specific software title releases contributing to strong hardware sales, but comparing the same weekly data shows that the week ending August 19 boasted no new titles in the top ten, with the best-selling game notching up 127,724 sales.

That's compared with last week, when there were three new entries in the software top ten, and the number one game sold 186,422 units.

The complete hardware sales figures are as follows:

1. Nintendo DS (77,488)

2. Nintendo Wii (29,088)

3. Sony PSP (15,564)

4. Sony PS2 (13,360)

5. Sony PS3 (13,248)

6. Microsoft Xbox 360 (1,286)

7. Nintendo GBA (550)

8. Nintendo GameCube (82)

Snoopy the Flying Ace Mobile Game

Following the July launch of Snoopy the Flying Ace for mobile phones, Namco Networks, a leading publisher and developer of mobile games and entertainment for the mass-market casual gamer, today announced a sweepstakes for Sprint’s mobile phone customers who purchase Snoopy the Flying Ace.

“As an original game based on a mass-market brand, Snoopy the Flying Ace appeals to millions of consumers, both young and old, and the game stays true to brand by incorporating some of its most recognizable storylines and characters,” said Scott Rubin, vice president of sales and marketing, Namco Networks. “Because the mobile gaming industry continues to gain popularity, publishers and carriers must do as much as possible to introduce new consumers to the high level of quality and fun that can be had on mobile phones. Through this sweepstakes, we will encourage mobile game customers to download and play Snoopy the Flying Ace and as a result, increase awareness about how entertaining mobile gaming can be.”

The sweepstakes is simple to enter. Sprint customers can enter from their handsets’ games home page on the Sprint wireless Web or by texting the word ‘snoopy’ to 26262 on their Sprint wireless phone (standard text and data rates apply). Visit www.namcogames.com/snoopy for the official rules and an alternate method of entry.

Namco Networks will award one grand prize winner with a trip to the Charles M. Schulz museum in Napa Valley for a VIP behind-the-scenes tour complete with accommodations, airfare and car service plus $1,000 in spending money. Additionally, 25 runners-up will receive Peanuts® Classics: The Ultimate Box Set that includes eight hardcover classic Peanuts titles plus The Peanuts Cookbook, available for the first time in 30 years. The giveaway will run through Oct. 15, 2007.

In Snoopy the Flying Ace by Namco, players put their piloting skills to the test. In Snoopy’s famous fantasy as the WWI Flying Ace, players steer his Sopwith Camel deep within ”enemy territory,” the familiar Peanuts neighborhood, to capture balloons and raise Woodstock’s nest. Players earn points by collecting bonus items in the air while raiding Peanuts gang “ground troops.” Players can double, triple or quadruple their score by recruiting bird buddies along the way to help Woodstock. When using the game’s network components, available on select phones, earned points can be redeemed for unlockable features and rewards such as downloads of PEANUTS comic strips from Namco’s server-based comic collection.

Snoopy the Flying Ace is currently available on most Sprint Vision and Power Vision phones. For more information, including handset compatibility, visit www.NamcoGames.com/snoopy.

NINTENDO DS LITE GOES PLATINUM!

Not content with just providing a raft of quality titles to look forward to this winter, Nintendo of Europe is adding a new colour of Nintendo DS Lite to the range. Joining the already popular black, white and pink versions, from 12th October 2007, Nintendo DS Lite will be available across Europe in silver - the perfect accessory whatever you are wearing!

Nintendo DS has become Europe’s best-selling games console, with over 14 million sold to date and in many markets across Europe it is the fastest selling handheld games console in history. Strong sales are being maintained even in traditionally slow sales periods in the video games industry’s seasonality and this is being seen with software as well as hardware. More Brain Training from Dr. Kawashima: How Old Is Your Brain? will soon hit the 1 million milestone in Europe, with over 915,000 already sold in just 11 weeks since launch. The original Dr. Kawashima’s Brain Training: How Old Is Your Brain? has sold over 3.3 million copies and continues to feature high in software sales charts across Europe, despite launching over a year ago. Pokémon Diamond and Pokémon Pearl have sold approximately 1.6 million copies combined in just 7 weeks since their launch.

As sales continue to grow at a rapid rate, it is not only traditional gamers who are enjoying the touch screen controls and wide range of software. Whether you wish to exercise your brain, train and communicate with puppies, battle and collect Pokémon or embark on in-depth adventures, the DS has software that is appealing to both avid games and new gamers of all ages. This momentum for Nintendo DS is set to continue with forthcoming new releases, including the highly anticipated The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass which launches across Europe on 19th October 2007.

Nintendo DS Lite Silver launches across Europe on 12th October and will be available for the estimated retail price around £99.

Target, XBOX 360 and Chip Ganassi Racing to Feature HALO 3 Paint Scheme DURING SNEAK PEEK NASCAR

Target, Microsoft and Chip Ganassi Racing with Felix Sabates (CGRFS) announced today that the No. 40 car will feature an exclusive "Halo 3"-themed paint scheme during the Dover 400 Nextel Cup Series race at Dover International Speedway on Sunday, Sept. 23. As fans throughout the world line up for the blockbuster Xbox 360 title, CGRFS driver David Stremme will showcase a distinctly designed paint scheme in advance of the game’s much anticipated release on Tuesday, Sept. 25.

"I'm honored and excited to be running the 'Halo 3' car at Dover and can’t wait to show off this awesome paint scheme," said Stremme. "It's going to be a special experience when the car rolls off the truck for the first time at Dover – as a Halo fan, I'm thrilled."

In addition to the special paint scheme in the Nextel Cup race on Sunday, Target and Microsoft are giving select drivers the chance to play "Halo 3," one of the most anticipated video games of all time, before it releases to the public.

"Target is proud to partner with Microsoft to bring some 'Halo 3' excitement to Dover race fans before the much anticipated release date," said Target Senior Buyer, Troy Peterson. "We expect this to be one of our largest gaming releases ever."

"Halo 3," the final chapter in the groundbreaking "Halo" trilogy, is set to shatter day-one entertainment sales records when it is released worldwide beginning Tuesday, Sept. 25. Created by legendary developer Bungie Studios and exclusive to the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system, "Halo 3" will set a new standard for interactive storytelling and social gaming by engaging consumers worldwide in the epic battle of Master ChiefTM to save humankind.

In November 2004, the world’s view of video games changed forever with the release of "Halo 2," which generated a record-setting $125 million (U.S.) in sales within the first 24 hours and changed the way people think about interactive entertainment. Three years later, it remains the most-played game on Microsoft’s Xbox LIVE® online gaming and entertainment network, with nearly 1 billion hours of online gaming logged to date.

About Target

Minneapolis-based Target serves guests at 1,537 stores in 47 states nationwide by delivering today’s best retail trends at affordable prices. Target is committed to providing guests with great design through innovative products, in-store experiences and community partnerships. Whether visiting a Target store or shopping online at Target.com, guests enjoy a fun and convenient shopping experience with access to thousands of unique and highly differentiated items. Target (NYSE:TGT) gives more than $3 million a week to its local communities through grants and special programs. Since opening its first store in 1962, Target has partnered with nonprofit organizations, guests and team members to help meet community needs.

About Chip Ganassi Racing with Felix Sabates

With 13 wins already in 2007, including the company’s best stretch in history with six victories in 30 days, CGRFS continues to add to its tally of 89 trips to victory lane. Chip Ganassi created his own one-car IndyCar team in 1990 and established a partnership with a new sponsor, Target. Today, his teams include two IRL IndyCars, one Indy Pro Series car and along with Felix Sabates he has three cars in the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series, two entries in the NASCAR Busch Series and two Daytona Prototypes in the world of Grand American Rolex Sports Car Series racing. Ganassi’s IndyCar teams have amassed five Championships and 56 wins since 1994; his NASCAR teams have 12 wins and a Rookie-of-the-Year title; and the Grand American team has won two of the last three Rolex Series Daytona Prototype Championships and are the two-time defending Champions of the Rolex 24 At Daytona. Chip Ganassi Racing operates out of state-of-the-art race shop facilities in Indianapolis, Ind., and Concord, N.C., with a corporate office in Pittsburgh, Pa.

Matchstick Puzzle by DS

Mercury Games announces today a new game for the Nintendo DS as part of the Zen series, entitled “Matchstick Puzzle by DS”. The game is a classic puzzle game which requires lateral thinking and includes lots of brain teasing conundrums.

The aim of the game is to answer the questions by moving or rotating matchsticks; for example the player may be presented with two match sticks and then asked to make 14 boxes by adding six other match sticks.

Matchstick Puzzle by DS has more than 150 puzzles of four difficulty settings to complete. The game also has hints to help the player decipher the more abstract clues. In addition, the game has a time attack mode in which the player must complete 10 random puzzles in the fastest time possible but without any hints to help them.

Thanks to the straightforward, uncomplicated nature of the game and the simplicity of the Nintendo DS, the game can be played by people of all ages regardless of whether they have played computer games before.



Matchstick Puzzle by DS is part of the Zen series of games which have been developed with the busy, contemporary urbanite in mind. Matchstick Puzzle by DS, in line with the rest of the Zen series, does not contain any violent or competitive elements. Zen games are co–published by Mercury Games and Ertain.

Tomo Ohno, Chief Operating Officer of Ertain BV said: “Matchstick Puzzle by DS” is a fun, taxing and yet relaxing game. The game will appeal to all people, who like puzzles and a challenge.”

The game will be released at the end of October and will be priced at £19.99/ €24.99.

Halo ActionClix Launch Countdown

Continuing our countdown to the September 19th release of the Halo ActionClix collectible miniature game from WizKids, this week we’ll be focusing on figures from one of the most terrifying organisms in the Halo universe: The Flood!
Carrier Form

The Flood’s Carrier Form serves as the primary method of spreading the Flood parasite to other species. In Halo ActionClix, the uncanny speed of the Carrier will be their most notable trait, allowing them to move and attack at will.

Infection Form
Infection Forms are released like spores by carriers and are the actual agent by which other organisms are infected by the Flood. The Halo ActionClix version of the Infection Form will share many traits of the Carrier form, including its speed.

Combat Form
The Combat Form is the result of actual Flood infection in an individual. Their gruesome appearance reflects the mutation process that results once the parasite completely takes over an organism.
Halo ActionClix will include Flood-infected versions of both Covenant Elites as well as Human Marines. They will retain some of their original abilities, such as using guns in the Marine’s case. They will also acquire new abilities, including a bonus to close combat, reflecting their whip-like tentacles!

PC Games FREE at FreeGamePick.com

FreeGamePick (www.freegamepick.com) announced the opening of their Free Gaming Portal. You can choose from various downloadable games for PC and online games. All of their games are full version games and totally free. You will not find any try-before-buy or shareware games there. Yes, this means you don't pay a cent to play or download a game!

FreeGamePick concentrates on providing their visitors the best Action, Shooters, Racing and Arcade gaming content, however popular Puzzle, Card and Business games are also available.

One great thing about the portal is that it's very easy to pick a game and start playing. You don't have to register, fill any forms or submit your e-mail anywhere and you will not experience any annoying pop-ups as well. Their gaming site is very simply structured and easy to use.

On another note, FreeGamePick promotes other gaming sites and game related information via its sponsored links. This means that by frequently visiting the website you can always find even more fun and new gaming for yourself no matter where you are - at home or at work.

The website is also multi-language friendly. You can now choose to have it displayed in English, Spanish or Russian. More local languages are coming soon.

Come visit FreeGamePick.com and check out their latest PC titles, such as Forbidden Galaxy, Machine World, Intense Racing, Ultimate Tank, Sky Battle and more.


Website address: http://www.freegamepick.com

Xbox 360 Lineup of Japanese Developers and Blockbuster New Games

Japan's best developers are betting big on Xbox 360 in 2007 and beyond, as Microsoft announces best-ever holiday entertainment lineup.

Flanked by a who’s who of Japanese gaming luminaries and video game development legends, Takashi Sensui, general manager of the Home and Entertainment Division at Microsoft Co. Ltd., took the stage at the Yebisu Garden Hall during Xbox 360 Briefing 2007 to announce support from some of Japan’s most renowned game developers and unveil an unparalleled lineup of holiday blockbuster hits and exclusives for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system.

Two of Japan’s most celebrated game developers, Tomonobu Itagaki from Team NINJA/Tecmo Ltd. and Hironobu Sakaguchi from Mistwalker, joined Sensui onstage to announce their support for the Xbox 360 platform. Itagaki highlighted the announcement that Team NINJA will develop “NINJA GAIDEN® 2,” the true sequel to the best-selling and critically acclaimed Xbox® original, exclusively for Xbox 360. Sakaguchi revealed pricing1 and availability for Mistwalker’s upcoming role-playing game (RPG) “Lost Odyssey™,” available from 6th December 2007 in Japan and around the world in early 2008. In addition, representatives from SQUARE ENIX took the stage to discuss two new games for Xbox 360: “INFINITE UNDISCOVERY™” and “THE LAST REMNANT™.”

Japanese Developers Embrace Xbox 360

“NINJA GAIDEN® 2” is the long-awaited sequel to the platinum-selling Xbox original, where players once again assume the role of Ryu Hayabusa as they guide the ninja hero on a quest to avenge his clan and prevent the destruction of the human race. Team NINJA’s announcement that “NINJA GAIDEN® 2” will be exclusive to Xbox 360 and available worldwide in 2008 provided gamers everywhere with plenty of reason for excitement, and served as yet another example of the blockbuster games being created by Japanese developers exclusively for the platform.

Xbox 360 owners in Japan will be the first to experience the magical world of “Lost Odyssey,” created by Mistwalker/feelplus Inc., and featuring a beautifully told story by Hironobu Sakaguchi, creator of the “Final Fantasy” video game franchise. Available 6th December 2007 in Japan, January 2008 in Asia, and February 2008 in North America and Europe, “Lost Odyssey” headlines a lineup of games by Japanese developers for Xbox 360 owners around the world this holiday, including these:

· “Ace Combat 6: Fires of Liberation” (NAMCO BANDAI Games). “Ace Combat 6: Fires of Liberation” takes players up to the sky and into the heat of realistic air combat with next-generation audio and visual effects and online multiplayer action.2 Available this holiday, only on Xbox 360.

· “Beautiful Katamari” (NAMCO BANDAI Games). Marking the debut of Namco’s beloved ball-rolling puzzle game on a next-generation platform, “Beautiful Katamari,” the fourth installment of the “Katamari” series, features levels of quirkiness, cosmic animations and musical stylings never seen before. Available in October.

· “Lost Odyssey” (Microsoft Game Studios/Mistwalker/feelplus Inc.). Famed game producer Hironobu Sakaguchi leads a staff of gaming masters to bring a truly next-generation role-playing experience to Xbox 360 in “Lost Odyssey.” Players will be led through a dramatic story of massive scale that features breathtaking visuals and an epic adventure made possible only by the power of Xbox 360. Available 6th December 2007, in Japan, and worldwide in 2008, only on Xbox 360.

Plus:

· “Battlefield: Bad Company” (Electronic Arts)

· “Battlestations: Midway” (Eidos)

· “Bladestorm: The Hundred Years’ War” (KOEI Co. Ltd.)

· “CASTLE SHIKIGAMI III” (ArcSystemWorks Co. Ltd.)

· “Dynasty Warriors 6” (KOEI Co. Ltd.)

· “Dynasty Warriors: Gundam” (NAMCO BANDAI Games)

· “Final Fantasy XI Play Online All in One Pack 2007” (SQUARE ENIX)

· “Final Fantasy XI Wings of the Goddess” (SQUARE ENIX)

· “Just Cause” (Electronic Arts)

· “Mobile Ops: The One Year War” (NAMCO BANDAI Games)

· “Operation Darkness” (SUCCESS Corp.)

· “Winning Eleven: Pro Evolution Soccer 2008” (Konami)

· “ZOIDS ALTERNATIVE” (TOMY Co. Ltd.)

This incredible lineup joins many other amazing games from developers around the globe that will be available this holiday in Japan and around the world, including the following:

· “Assassin’s Creed” (Ubisoft Entertainment). “Assassin’s Creed” is the next-generation game developed by Ubisoft that merges technology, game design, theme and emotions into a world where players will assume the role of the main character, Altair, and will have the power to throw their immediate environment into chaos and experience the art of a master assassin. Available this November.

· “Halo 3” (Microsoft Game Studios/Bungie Studios). In “Halo® 3,” the third installment of the landmark “Halo” trilogy and hugely anticipated sequel to the critically acclaimed “Halo 2,” people everywhere can take on the role of Master Chief™ and experience Master Chief’s greatest battle as he launches an epic mission to stop the Covenant, destroy the impending Flood threat and ultimately save mankind. In this third chapter of the “Halo” trilogy, Master Chief returns to face his greatest challenge as he readies himself for the final battle and seals his place in history. A hero must rise. Believe. Available worldwide, with availability in Europe on 26th September 2007 only on Xbox 360.

· “Kingdom Under Fire: Circle of Doom” (Microsoft/Blueside Inc.). Six heroes from the “Kingdom Under Fire” universe fight their way through the Dark Dimension against hordes of demented monsters in a twisted action RPG exclusive to Xbox 360. Coming this winter, “KUF:COD” features seamless four-player co-op2 via Xbox LIVE®, randomly generated maps and nearly infinite weapons combos with unique abilities, enhancements and magical powers for players to learn and master.

· “Project Gotham Racing 4” (Microsoft Game Studios/Bizarre Creations Ltd.). “Project Gotham Racing® 4” will redefine the acclaimed “PGR®” franchise by delivering a unique, exciting racing experience complete with dynamic weather and iconic cars and motorcycles. Available this October, only on Xbox 360.

· “Viva Piñata: Party Animals” (Microsoft Game Studios/Krome Studios Pty. Ltd.). An exciting new party game based on the critically acclaimed Xbox 360 exclusive and hit animated TV series, “Viva Piñata™: Party Animals” brings back the familiar piñata characters and invites players to compete in more than 40 mini-games against friends at home or over Xbox LIVE.2 Available this |Christmas, only on Xbox 360.

“Gamers around the world can look forward to the greatest holiday lineup in video game history,” said Don Mattrick, senior vice president of the Interactive Entertainment Business in the Entertainment and Devices Division at Microsoft Corp. “We continue to evolve our strong relationships with Japan’s best and most innovative developers, and we’re looking forward to delivering exclusive high-definition titles for consumers worldwide, this year and beyond.”

Xbox LIVE Arcade Continues High-Definition Downloadable Games Innovation in Japan

Japanese developers have long embraced and championed Xbox LIVE Arcade, with hits including “Pac-Man Championship Edition” (NAMCO BANDAI Games), “Bomberman Live” (Hudson Entertainment), “Frogger” (Konami) and “Fatal Fury Special” (SNK PLAYMORE Corp.). Several new titles from these and other Japanese developers will be added to the diverse portfolio of digitally distributed, high-definition original and classic games currently available on Xbox LIVE Arcade, including the following:

· “Every Extend Extra Extreme” (Q Entertainment). The latest creation from Q Entertainment, “Every Extend Extra Extreme,” or E4, is a unique action-packed shooter where the goal is to perfectly time your self-destruction to create chain reactions that explode surrounding enemies. With outrageous visuals and the ability to play your own favorite music, E4 puts a new twist on puzzle shooter games.

· “EXIT” (Taito). An addictive, frenzied puzzle game, “EXIT” has players using their decision-making skills and wits to escape numerous obstacles, while rescuing people from more than 100 different emergencies. Players must save as many lives as possible while finding the fastest way out when “EXIT” arrives on Xbox LIVE Arcade by the end of the year.

· “Ikaruga” (Treasure Co. Ltd.). “Ikaruga” is a quick-paced shooter with strong strategy elements featuring a slow-motion training mode and co-op play for two.2 Available soon for download from Xbox LIVE Arcade, “Ikaruga” is the perfect combination of beautiful, manga-style storytelling and refined, ultra-challenging arcade heroics.

· “OMEGA FIVE” (Hudson Entertainment). “OMEGA FIVE” is a next-generation, high-definition shooter with awe-inspiring graphics. Players fly through dangerous 3-D environments in this side-scroller and try to avoid the enemies that come at them from all sides, even from behind.

· “Rez” (Q Entertainment). “Rez,” the legendary action-shooter created by Tetsuya Mizuguchi, is coming to Xbox LIVE Arcade. A fast-moving, wire-frame adventure backed by industrial beats, the story of “Rez” takes players deep into the world’s computer network, where they must hack the system, altering the visual output and even taking over the music, creating their own rhythms and eye candy as they dig deeper into the dreamlike cyberworld.

· “Triggerheart Exelica” (Warashi). A shoot’em-up game where players battle against hordes of enemy ships, “Triggerheart Exelica” dynamically adjusts the difficulty to match a player’s skill level. “Triggerheart Exelica” launches on Xbox LIVE Arcade this year.

Other exciting Xbox LIVE Arcade games available in the coming months include these:

· “Braid” (Number None Inc.). Arriving in early 2008 on Xbox LIVE Arcade, “Braid” is a platformer/puzzle game. The player journeys across seven worlds to rescue a princess; in each world, time behaves in its own peculiar way. The player must cleverly manipulate the flow of time to solve puzzles. “Braid” aims to provide a mind-expanding, filler-free experience.

· “Castlecrashers” (The Behemoth). Arriving in early 2008 on Xbox LIVE Arcade, “Castlecrashers” is the second title currently in development by award-winning independent developer the Behemoth. The four-player RPG adventure will let players hack, slash and smash their way to victory. “Castlecrashers” delivers unique high-resolution illustrated visuals, including memorably hand-drawn characters that are cute and menacing at the same time. Gamers can play with up to three friends locally or over Xbox LIVE2 and discover mind-boggling magic and mystery in the amazing world of “Castlecrashers.”

· “Schizoid” (Torpex Games LLC). “Schizoid,” from independent studio Torpex Games, is the first Xbox LIVE Arcade game to be created with XNA™ Game Studio. Debuting on Xbox LIVE Arcade later this year, “Schizoid” is an action-packed game focused on co-op gameplay2 in which players smash barrages of glowing enemies while cooperating closely to protect each other.

Microsoft Brings Tokyo Game Show Home With Xbox LIVE

Once again, Microsoft will bring the Tokyo Game Show experience into living rooms worldwide as it offers its “TGS Bring It Home” programming, delivering hours of coverage from the press briefing, all the best highlights from the show floor, interviews with developers, gameplay videos, exclusive cinematic trailers and a variety of Xbox 360 content for gamers to download over Xbox LIVE Marketplace, beginning 13th September 2007.

Final Fantasy Tactics: The War Of The Lions Released In October

Square Enix Ltd., the publisher of Square Enix® interactive entertainment products in Europe and other PAL territories, today announces that the highly anticipated FINAL FANTASY TACTICS®: THE WAR OF THE LIONS™ will be released 5th October 2007 across all PAL territories on the PlayStation® Portable system.

From the creative minds behind FINAL FANTASY® XII comes an epic adventure set in the hugely successful FINAL FANTASY universe. Experience strategic, turn-based combat across 3D battlefields as a band of heroes endeavour to reshape the course of history. FINAL FANTASY TACTICS: THE WAR OF THE LIONS allows players to recruit legendary characters to their party of heroes, including Balthier from FINAL FANTASY XII. With 22 different jobs, over 400 different abilities, wireless melee and co-op missions, no two battles should ever be the same.

John Yamamoto, president and chief executive officer of Square Enix Ltd. comments, “FINAL FANTASY TACTICS: THE WAR OF THE LIONS is a masterpiece for a handheld system. Despite being portable, this is still the same epic FINAL FANTASY experience that the series is famous for with stunning graphics, classic storytelling and a beautiful score. Fans of the FINAL FANTASY series are in for a treat this October."

About FINAL FANTASY TACTICS: THE WAR OF THE LIONS

Story

Sustained by Lord and Light, the twin-headed lion reigns over the kingdom of Ivalice.

A year has passed since the loss of the Fifty Years’ War. The prince, though but two years of age, has ascended the throne, his father having been claimed by sudden malady. Too young to rule, the prince requires a regent, who would be king in all but name. The queen's brother, Duke Larg, had seemed the obvious choice for the regency. However, fearing the influence such an appointment would give the queen, the Council refused to back him. Instead, they appointed the king's younger cousin, Duke Goltanna, as regent.

Duke Goltanna and Duke Larg were both generals who had distinguished themselves during the Fifty Years' War. Duke Goltanna counts as ally the greater part of the aristocracy loyal to the Crown. However, the fallen nobility and free knights left in the aftermath of the Fifty Years' War have aligned themselves with Duke Larg. With Duke Goltanna under the banner of the Black Lion, and Duke Larg under that of the White, the stage is set for what history would one day record as the War of the Lions.

Features

• FINAL FANTASY turns tactical. Experience strategic, turn-based combat on 3D battlefields brought to life with breathtaking art and stunning visual effects
• Customize your characters – with 22 jobs and over 400 abilities to choose from, the tactical options open to you in combat are nearly endless
• Uncover secret truths hidden within a gripping tale of intrigue, betrayal, heresy, love and heroism
• Recruit legendary SQUARE ENIX characters to your party, including Balthier from FINAL FANTASY® XII
• Watch key scenes unfold through gorgeous, cutting-edge animation
• Immerse yourself in a captivating audio score from Hitoshi Sakimoto the composer of FINAL FANTASY® XII
• Fight against your friends in wireless melee, or team up with them for co-op missions

BBC in talks to provide Xbox 360 content

Microsoft is in talks with the BBC to bring the broadcaster's library of content, including high definition TV programmes, to Xbox Live.

Video content is already available via Live in North America, where Microsoft has signed agreements with partners such as Disney, MTV and CBS.

As reported by the Sunday Times, the company is now speaking to the BBC and other European content providers about similar deals.

The news was confirmed by Ross Honey, senior director for media at Microsoft’s content and partner strategy group. He said Microsoft is keen to offer BBC programmes via Live including high definition shows such as Planet Earth.

"We are working diligently on multiple fronts to make it happen," he said, adding, "The BBC is a great content provider."

At last month's Leipzig GCDC, Sony announced plans to launch a TV tuner with PVR functionality for PlayStation 3. The company has also signed a deal with Sky to offer content via PlayStation Network on a pay-per-view basis.

Games Industry

Nintendo's New Wii Zapper Targets Fun

First Wii Game-Play Accessory Comes Packaged with Zelda Software

Nintendo announced today that the Wii Zapper™ interface for the hit Wii™ home video game system will come packed with Link's Crossbow Training™. The software is based on the hugely popular Legend of Zelda® series and provides a perfect demonstration of the way the Wii Zapper could be used in other games. The Wii Zapper casing houses both the motion-sensitive Wii Remote™ and Nunchuk™ controllers in a single unit for precision targeting. It goes on sale Nov. 19 at an MSRP of just $19.99.

"The Wii Zapper combines our remarkable controllers into one housing with a classic style reminiscent of arcade-style games," says George Harrison, Nintendo of America's senior vice president of marketing and corporate communications. "Both veteran and first-time players will find it brings a whole new dimension to games where targeting is key and provides even more exciting game-play experiences."

Link's Crossbow Training drops players into a world in the style of The Legend of Zelda®: Twilight Princess. Players assume the identity of hero Link, who progresses through a series of tests to perfect his crossbow marksmanship. Start with stationary bull's-eyes and graduate to moving targets before defending Link against all kinds of enemies.

Third-party publishers have lined up to support the Wii Zapper. EA's Medal of Honor Heroes™ 2 lets players take World War II into their hands with the Wii Zapper. The game features an all-new Wii-exclusive Arcade Mode that offers accessibility to gamers of all skill levels, a full single-player campaign and support for up to 32 players in multiplayer. Capcom's Resident Evil®: The Umbrella Chronicles reveals the back story behind the fall of the Umbrella Corporation by exploring locations from Resident Evil 0, 1, 2 and 3, as well as new never-before-seen locations like Umbrella's stronghold. One or two players use the Wii Zapper to take aim against a horde of zombies in first-person perspective. SEGA's Ghost Squad™ lets players replicate the arcade light-gun experience at home with the Wii Zapper.

Remember that Wii features parental controls that let adults manage the content their children can access. For more information about this and other Wii features, visit Wii.com.

The worldwide innovator in the creation of interactive entertainment, Nintendo Co., Ltd., of Kyoto, Japan, manufactures and markets hardware and software for its Wii™, Nintendo DS™, Game Boy® Advance and Nintendo GameCube™ systems. Since 1983, Nintendo has sold nearly 2.4 billion video games and more than 420 million hardware units globally, and has created industry icons like Mario™, Donkey Kong®, Metroid®, Zelda™ and Pokémon®. A wholly owned subsidiary, Nintendo of America Inc., based in Redmond, Wash., serves as headquarters for Nintendo's operations in the Western Hemisphere. For more information about Nintendo, visit the company's Web site at www.nintendo.com.

Colin McRae: DiRT set to roar into stores this week PLAYSTATION 3

PLAYSTATION 3 adrenaline junkies will get the drive of their life this week as Codemasters announces that Colin McRae: DiRT, the game that takes traditional rally racing and turns it into a cavalcade of off-road competitions, is now shipping and will be available from retail stores this Friday, 14th September*, for the PLAYSTATION 3 computer entertainment system.

Featuring a massive range of off-road race experiences on gravel, mud and dirt, gamers will get their fix of throwing 46 vehicles, including FWD, 4WD, Classic and RWD cars, through the most challenging and treacherous stages, tracks and circuits all over the world.

In addition to superlative rally stages, Colin McRae: DiRT delivers an exhilarating series of multiple car events as detailed in the all new video, featuring exclusive PLAYSTATION 3 system footage, now available from www.codemasters.co.uk/dirt in ‘Downloads’.

Introduced by Matt Horsman, Chief Games Designer on Colin McRae: DiRT, the video spotlights multiple car events including Rally Raid, where players race in super powered SUVs and Dakar-style trucks across gruelling desert terrain, and Rally Cross where the course switches between dirt and road surfaces.

There’s footage from the two-car chase duels of the Crossover circuits and from Championship Off–Road Racing (C.O.R.R.) events, where powerful off-road buggies combined with thrilling dirt tracks featuring tabletop jumps and drop-offs make for an intoxicating mix.

In addition to the video, the Colin McRae: DiRT website is also the place for the community to share their love of everything messy in the all-new ‘Dirty Pictures’ section; visit www.codemasters.co.uk/dirt and hit the ‘Upload Your Dirty Pictures’ button. The section is a gallery and showcases all manner of real-life filthy fun, from the muddiest cars to the grubbiest people.

For a real taste of Colin McRae: DiRT, take the PLAYSTATION 3 system edition for test drive with the three-event playable demo, featuring Crossover, C.O.R.R., and a point-to-point rally stage, now available to download from PlayStation Store.

Get ready for total mud splattering, gravel churning, off-road racing with Colin McRae: DiRT coming this Friday, 14th September, for the PLAYSTATION 3 system. For the new video and more, visit the home of Colin McRae: DiRT online at www.codemasters.com/dirt

Hot Pitch Wins Over Videogame Dragons

A start-up videogames firm has won a Dragon's Den-style contest to find the hottest young talent in North East England's videogame development sector.

The 'Game Academy' competition, run by games industry business network Codeworks GameHorizon, saw local companies and graduates practise pitching their ideas and concepts in a live situation and gain valuable feedback from an expert panel.

Lo-Jen, set up by Teesside University graduates Caleb Lowe and Tom Jenns along with University of East Anglia graduate Jesse Roberts, took first place, beating off stiff competition from five other start-up companies and graduates.

The industry panel consisted of Pete O'Donnell, chief games designer for leading UK publisher Codemasters; Tom O'Connor from Sony Computer Entertainment Europe (SCEE); Darren Jobling, director of business development at Gateshead-based driving game specialist Eutechnyx; and Tony Parkes, executive producer at Midway's Newcastle studio.

Lo-Jen's pitch, a remix of the classic turn-based strategy genre aimed at the handheld console market, was seized on by the judges as a strong and commercially viable proposition, winning them the first prize of a training and mentoring package worth more than £2,000.

Jesse Roberts (22), managing director, said: "Winning Game Academy is an important step for Lo-Jen. The chance to get in front of industry professionals, to take on board their criticism is extremely useful, and to win is a satisfying validation of our ideas.

"We hope the prestige of winning this award will give our games and our company a major boost as we seek to break into the market."

Caleb Lowe (21), operations director, added: "We're surprised and thrilled to win the competition against some big local names.

"The feedback on the day from the likes of SCEE and Codemasters was fantastic, but to win the additional mentoring package means we'll have expert support to help turn our ideas into reality."

Nina Cliff, business development manager of Codeworks GameHorizon, awarded the prize to Lo-Jen. She said: "Game Academy helps these talented businesses ensure their products are up-to-scratch by giving them invaluable experience of a live pitch situation and feedback from industry experts.

"What's more, the format has already proven successful. Last year's winner, Teesside University graduate Jeremiah Alexander, used his prize to set up an educational games company, Babel Digital."