EA ANNOUNCES ZUBO - A NEW CHILDREN'S VIDEO GAME EXCLUSIVE TO NINTENDO DS

Original Nintendo DS game features collectable characters in a music-based rhythm-action adventure

The EA Casual Entertainment Label today announced the development of a new wholly-owned, original intellectual property, created for 7-11 year old boys and girls. Zubo is a music-based rhythm-action game featuring a unique set of characters that is scheduled to ship worldwide later this year, exclusively on the Nintendo DSTM handheld system.


“Zubo represents the culmination of a dedicated incubation project, which specifically sought to develop a new videogame property for boys and girls under 12,” said Harvey Elliott, Head of the EA Bright Light studio in Guildford, UK. “The team here has designed a rich, immersive and, above all, enjoyable experience – one that will live in the schoolyard, at home or on the move.”


Players enter the world of Zubalon to help the colourful and zany inhabitants, the Zubos, defeat an evil force which is bent on world domination. Players can befriend the Zubos they meet along the way, feed and nurture them, help them gain skills and strength, and assist them in their battles with the enemy, the dastardly Zombos.

A key element to Zubo is music, which is intrinsic to Zubalon from its tuneful plant life through to its currency of musical notes. The player will use the music to drive the battles forward, synchronising their stylus action and tapping in time with the musical beats to win!

With 55 Zubos available to find and recruit to a player’s squad, plus a wealth of interactions and mini-games, and the world of Zubalon to explore, Zubo offers a deeply rewarding Nintendo DS experience.

Zubo is developed by EA Bright Light studio in Guildford, UK and it will be available on the Nintendo DS this autumn.

Trickster Online Revolution Episode 2 launched

A New Revolution is Here! Trickster Online Revolution Episode 2 Is Live!

With the newest content update and patch for Trickster Online Revolution, the second major Revolution Episode comes to Caballa Island! Revolution in Trickster Online is not merely a buzz term, but a fully-loaded update and addition to the popular online title. With the first and now second Revolution Episode, Trickster is setting a new standard for online titles focusing on immersion of players into the mysteries and deep backstory of the game itself, the history of Caballa Island! Revolution Episode 2 allows players to delve deeper than ever before into the secrets of Caballa Island and the disappearance of its once mighty inhabitants, the Altheo Empire.

Episode 2 involves over twenty interlocking and story driven quests that will provide a colorful and fully detailed look into the hidden mysteries of the fallen Altheo Empire, Megalo Company, the late Don Cavalier and Trickster Online Revolution itself, and includes a brand new area never before seen in any previous adventures, Mirage Island! Tricksters who wish to begin the quest for glory, and answers to every burgeoning question that began in Revolution Episode 1, should begin by finding the Waterweed Witch, Kahlihara in the newly revised and completely overhauled Mermaid Palace!

Revolution Episode 2!

In addition to the newly released Revolution Episode 2 content, an exclusive Episode 2 Event has also begun to reward all Tricksters who are able to make their way to the new, amazing Mirage Island local! Completion of the new Episode 2 Quests will allow Tricksters to receive outstanding in-game items. For all the details of this brand new Event and for more information on the Revolution Episode 2 content, make sure to check the official website, or the direct link below!

Revolution Episode 2 Event!

Level Your Pets! Make Them Stronger with the Brand New Pet Leveling System!

Pets are a valued and highly important component of the Trickster Online Revolution experience. Pets add stat bonuses and provide a unique aesthetic compliment to Tricksters throughout the island. Previously, Pets were limited by their individual Level compatibility, yet now, Trickster Online Revolution is releasing a brand new system which will allow Pets to Level up and increase their in-game prowess just as regular Tricksters do! Tricksters interested in this exciting new addition, make sure to visit Pet Breeder Erin and Egg Shop Owner Leonardo in Megalopolis! Tricksters interested in gaining new training for their pets and the ability to change their stats should make sure to visit Pet Trainer Shara in Megalopolis as well!

Egg Shop Owner Leonardo Details

Pet Breeder Erin Details

Pet Trainer Shara Details

Soviet Campaign in Men of War - video game released

The German advance on Soviet territory was almost unstopable and German troops were only several kilometres away from Moscow. It was absolutely vital to stop the Germans and protect the capital, loosing Moscow would have caused a major impact on the Soviet troops moral.

Freshly sent troops out of Siberia were doing a good job, since they were used to the strong winter and temperature.

Soon the German advance was finally stagneted and they could be fought back to the Ukraine where you are going to slip into the role of a special operations officer behind enemy lines to help your comrads on the battlefields.

Screenshot One
Screenshot Two
Screenshot Three
Screenshot Four

Also a screenshot of the Sherman Jumbo

The M4A3E2 Sherman Jumbo variant had even thicker frontal armor than the Tiger I. Intended for the assault to break out of the Normandy beachhead, it entered combat in August 1944

Screenshot Five

If you see last weekend's screenshots, here they are:

Screenshot Six
Screenshot Seven
Screenshot Eight
Screenshot Nine
Screenshot Ten
Screenshot Eleven
Screenshot Twelve

Commodore 64 channel launches on Nintendo Wii

Things are getting even better for the Wii, with the Commodore 64 channel launching today on the Wii's online Virtual Console store.

The likes of Mario Kart and - the surprisingly decent - PES are giving more committed gamers a chance to dust down their Wii.

And things are getting even better, with the Commodore 64 channel launching today on the Wii's online Virtual Console store. But before you get too excited the service is only launching with two titles - Uridium and International Karate.

They cost around 3 quid each - which is fine - but while both are generally seen as retro classics I'm not sure how they will stand up today. IK will be ok for a quick bit of multiplayer but tricky shooter Uridium could frustrate today's - let's face it - softer gamers.

Of course, what we really want to see on the service are Paradroid, Emlyn Hughes International Football and Finders Keepers. Oh, and the Frankie Goes to Hollywood game. C64 games then - what would you pay to play on your Wii?

Source: Guardian

Enjoy Pure Gaming Nostalgia As Commodore 64 Titles See Virtual Console Hit 200 Games!

This week sees the 200th title hit Virtual Console as it once again expands its catalogue with the arrival of Commodore 64 games for all to enjoy! As the biggest selling personal computer of all time, the release of the Commodore 64 back in 1982 was an historic moment in the computer and video games industry. Now, for the first time Wii owners can experience some of the greatest titles from its impressive back catalogue.

First up, get ready for a high-speed galactic adventure! Originally seen on the Commodore 64 in 1986, Uridium sees the solar system invaded by fifteen Super-Dreadnoughts. Players must defend each of the fifteen planets in this classic shoot’em up to stop the enemy fighters draining precious mineral resources from the planetary cores. Developed by 8-bit shoot’em up pioneer Andrew Braybrook, this outer-space title is pure nostalgia! Uridium is available for download now for 500 Wii Points.

Next from the classic Commodore 64 is something a bit more down-to-earth; globe-trotting martial arts title International Karate. Released in 1986 for the Commodore 64, this one-on-one fighting game sees players compete in a karate tournament to become the international karate champion. Players must fly around the globe to various exciting locations, under the watchful eye of the old wise judge, winning bouts as they go. With points awarded for successful hits, either against a second player or the computer, get your black belt at the ready and take on International Karate on Virtual Console for 500 Wii Points.

Finally, get ready to put pedal to the metal as you head out on the drive of your life across the highways of America in Cruis’n USA™. Originally released on the Nintendo 64 in 1998, Cruis’n USA™ brought the classic arcade hit into the home. Racing along the highways of LA, the deserts of Arizona to the nations capital city Washington DC, get ready to feel the wind in your hair as you push for the finish line to gain glorious victory! Featuring a 14-stage cross country solo challenge, as well as a split-screen two player mode to take on a friend head-to-head, enjoy famous US sights like the Golden Gate Bridge and the Grand Canyon as you experience the thrill of street racing. Cruis’n USA™ is available to download now for 1000 Wii Points.

Virtual Console offers users the ultimate retro gaming experience. This week’s titles join the list of 197 classic titles already available for Virtual Console in Europe, bringing the total to 200 games!

Guild Wars and Lineage II website launched

NCsoft Europe unveils two new websites designed to introduce new players to Lineage II and Guild Wars.

NCsoft Europe today announces the launch of two new websites specifically created to introduce players new to massively multiplayer online role-playing games (MMORPGs) the opportunity to discover two of NCsoft Europe’s most cherished and endearing games: Guild Wars® and Lineage II.

From the battle-ravaged ruins of Tyria (Guild Wars), through the ancient kingdom of Cantha (Guild Wars Factions™), and on across the treacherous plains of Elona (Guild Wars Nightfall), www.discoverguildwars.com introduces newcomers to the full Guild Wars experience, including the official expansion pack, Guild Wars: Eye of the North. Try mixing and matching combinations of games on this stunning, user-friendly website to discover how to gain access to new skills, missions, and geographical locations.

Lineage® II: The Chaotic Throne, by contrast, offers a slightly different, if no less epic, playing experience. The world of Lineage II is divided into three kingdoms: Aden, Elmore and Gracia who share a delicate balance of power. Solo fighters, entire clans and immense alliances engage in combat so brutal the very ground shakes! By visiting www.discoverlineage2.com player can discover the historical background and rich heritage of one of the most enduring MMORPGs currently available using a sumptuously presented page-turning presentation guide.

PlayStation 3 and PC Gamers Can Get Their Frag On With Three New Maps for Unreal Tournament 3

PlayStation 3 and PC Gamers Can Get Their Frag On With Three New Maps for Unreal Tournament 3

Midway and Epic Games announce that downloadable content for the award-winning first-person shooter, Unreal Tournament 3, is now available for PlayStation 3 and PC. The downloadable content consists of three deadly arenas: Morbias, Facing Worlds and Searchlight. PC users can find the new content at www.unrealtournament3.com, while PS3 users can download it directly from the PlayStation Network.

These downloads, which are free to all owners of Unreal Tournament 3, mark the latest achievement in providing the gaming community with unrivaled mods and superior experiences through the most recent installment in the Unreal Tournament franchise. While Unreal Tournament 3 shipped with 40 maps, and hundreds of user-created mods have been published since the game's release, Midway and Epic are committed to providing fans with even more official content to further extend enjoyment of the game.

Morbias is the deathmatch arena that started it all, perfectly suited for anything from small intense duels to chaotic free-for-all matches. The Unreal Tournament classic, Facing Worlds was one of the most played maps in gaming history. This beloved sniper map makes its return alongside an intricate new capture the flag map, Searchlight, designed for both z-axis rooftop runs and strategic indoor gameplay. Returning classics and fresh new designs let you experience Unreal gaming like never before.

Unreal Tournament 3 is rated 18+ PEGi.

Penny Arcade Game - Windows Mac and Linux versions

Hothead Games Sets Price, Technical Specs For Upcoming Penny Arcade Game

Windows, Mac and Linux versions to sell worldwide for $19.95

Hothead Games today announced official pricing for the upcoming first installment in the downloadable, episodic game series Penny Arcade Adventures: On the Rain-Slick Precipice of Darkness. Although the title is long, the price is just a short and sweet $19.95 for the Windows, Mac and Linux versions of the game, currently scheduled to launch simultaneously this spring on these platforms and via Xbox LIVE Arcade.

Penny Arcade Adventures: On the Rain-Slick Precipice of Darkness, Episode One is expected to offer gamers five to ten hours of gameplay and work on current generation computer hardware, making it compatible with players' schedules and pocketbooks.

Minimum System Requirements

Windows and Linux

• Windows 2000/XP/VistaTM with latest updates or Linux 32-bit x86
• Pentium III, AMD AthlonTM 1.0 GHz or better

Mac

• Mac OS X 10.4/10.5 with latest updates
• PowerPC G4, G5 or Intel based Mac 1.0 GHz or better

Recommended Configuration

Windows and Linux

• Pentium IV, AMD AthlonTM 1.5 GHz or better

Mac

• PowerPC G4, G5 or Intel based Mac 1.5 GHz or better

Atlus Announces Dungeon RPG Etrian Odyssey II: Heroes of Lagaard for Nintendo DS

Adventurers Wanted; Atlus Announces Dungeon RPG Etrian Odyssey II: Heroes of Lagaard for Nintendo DS

One of Gaming's Truest RPG Series Returns in June

Atlus U.S.A., Inc., preferred publisher of adventuring duo Fight and Heal, today announced Etrian OdysseyTMII: Heroes of Lagaard for Nintendo DSTM. Continuing one of the genre's purest experiences, this sequel builds upon the original cult classic with more diverse areas to explore, new character classes, more fiendish FOEs, and an improved mapping system.

Etrian Odyssey II boasts an all-star development team, led by director Shigeo Komori (scenario designer; Etrian Odyssey, Odin Sphere). Composer Yuzo Koshiro (The Revenge of Shinobi, Streets of Rage, Etrian Odyssey) returns for Heroes of Lagaard, in addition to character designer Yuji Himukai and monster designer Shin Nagasawa, who both worked on the original Etrian Odyssey.

The odyssey resumes June 17th.

Visit the official Etrian Odyssey II: Heroes of Lagaard website: www.atlus.com/etrian2

About Etrian Odyssey II: Heroes of Lagaard In the Grand Duchy of High Lagaard, it is said that the Duke is descended from inhabitants of a castle in the sky. When an unforeseen crisis befalls the nation, it is decreed that the first explorer to retrieve the Grail of Kings from that mythical floating palace will be rewarded with wealth and fame beyond imagining. Enter the central city of Lagaard and begin your journey to the clouds!

Key Features

- Make the adventure yours - Rediscover true role-playing as you build your party of stalwart adventurers from 12 different classes. From basics like name and sex to advanced settings like combat formation, skills, and spells, every detail is yours to customize!
- The Odyssey continues - Experience an all-new story, more classes, improved mapping capabilities, new Force Skills, and over 100 side-quests.
- Chart your progress through the dungeons - Etrian Odyssey's innovative mapmaking tool returns with more options and features! Use the touch screen to map out the halls, chambers, treasures, and dangers of the realms you explore.

Etrian Odyssey II: Heroes of Lagaard has not yet been rated by the ESRB.

PT Boats: Knights of the Sea Multiplayer Screenshots

Akella is pleased to present the recent multiplayer screenshots from PT Boats: Knights of the Sea which is a mix of fast-paced action sim and a more hardcore experience involving tactical planning and strategic thinking. Slated for release later this year, the title undergoes the final touches on balancing and minor bug fixes.

The fresh downloads show off the Deathmatch Mode and feature refresh of the game artwork.

The screenshots can be accessed in the game gallery

About PT Boats: Knights of the Sea

PT Boats: Knights of the Sea
Genre: naval action simulator
Platform: PC
Developer and publisher: Akella
Release date: Q2 2008

The seas can be dangerous, but when you're in command of a crack strike boat crew, you might just be the most dangerous thing out there...

Join up to the Russian, German or Allied navies and prove your worth out these on the open water. Control every aspect of your boat's defensive and offensive, from the anti-aircraft guns hobbling your enemy's air superiority to the torpedo strapped to the sides to sink destroyers of merchant vessels.

Combining advanced strategic and action modes you can plan the intricacies of your attack and then lead your crew from the front and right in the battle. As you advance in rank throughout the long campaign you will gain access to new boats and even warships for you to command. Build up your crew in single player then go online and join your friends manning your own boat and challenge others in a battle to the death.

Key features:

• Innovative combination of sim, strategy and tactical action.
• Control the entire crew or take your place at an individual station.
• DirectX 9 as well as DirectX 10 options.

Proprietary graphics engine, with advanced physics and post-processing effects

Xbox Live Cheaters gamerscore accounts to zero There is NO appeal

Microsoft reset cheaters' "gamerscore" accounts to zero and eliminated all past achievements. There is no appeal.

Microsoft is cracking down on players on its Xbox Live gaming service who use hacks to artificially inflate their scores.

"Today, we took action,"

said Larry Hryb, Microsoft's Xbox Live programming director, in a blog post Wednesday.

Hryb, who blogs under the pseudonym Major Nelson, said Microsoft would reset cheaters' "gamerscore" accounts to zero and eliminate all past achievements. Their gamer profiles would also publicly show they've been caught cheating, according to Hryb.

"Xbox Live remains committed to keeping the service free of cheating in order to maintain a fair and level playing field for everyone,"

said Hryb.

In a separate post, Microsoft said its judgments on whether a player had amassed their score by cheating are final. "The original gamerscore correction will remain permanent without any way to appeal," the company warned.

"Your best choice is to show the community you won't do it again,"

said Microsoft.

Microsoft said it uses "specific and automated criteria" to determine if players are cheating. Some Xbox Live players have been known to cheat by using third party tools to hack into their saved game files.

Microsoft's crackdown on Xbox Live cheaters is so far proving popular with legitimate players.

"About time, how many people have been caught so far?,"

said a user in a post on the Major Nelson blog.

"Good job making the service fair, Microsoft,"

said another.

In addition to online gaming, Xbox Live also lets users download high-definition movies and TV shows and communicate with each other. The service counts more than 10 million members, according to Microsoft.

Source: Information Week