Future boosts events roster with PC Gamer Showdown

Future, the UK’s leading games media company, today announced its latest live games event, PC Gamer Showdown – a brand-new LAN tournament, bringing together the UK’s best PC gamers to compete for big cash prizes!

The UK’s bestselling PC games magazine launches PC Gamer Showdown on Thursday, 1st May, with registration open at the website, http://www.pcgamershowdown.com. Gamers can enter the online leagues and play games, including Counter-Strike, Team Fortress 2 and many more to be announced through the summer months.

The website also offers gamers the chance to buy tickets to take part in the live finals, which round off PC Gamer Showdown, against those who have qualified through the summer-long online series. The exciting event, powered by LAN experts Multiplay, takes place at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire on the weekend of September 27th and 28th , where more than 500 gamers will come together to battle it out on well-known LAN favourites to walk off with a slice of PC Gamer’s cold hard cash. More information is available at http://www.pcgamershowdown.com.

PC Gamer Showdown will also bring together many of the PC games industry’s biggest hitters, thanks to 1500 sq metres of exhibition space, offering publishers the chance to exhibit their forthcoming games, and retailers to sell computer hardware and other goods.

The PC Gamer Showdown tournament marks a further step in the development of Future’s multi-platform games media portfolio – across print, online and live events, which now attracts more than 6.5m dedicated gamers a month.

Ross Atherton, Editor of PC Gamer, said:

“There’s no better way to connect with our readers than organising an event where they can play their favourite games on a high-speed network, win huge cash prizes, meet us and each other, and generally have an awesome time doing what they love.”

Publisher of PC Gamer, Richard Keith added:

“Future wants PC Gamer Showdown to become the UK’s ultimate LAN tournament – a three month online search to find our greatest PC gamers, with a fantastic live event to round it all off and crown the UK’s best. Thanks to the strength and reach of Future’s games media portfolio, we can communicate this to a vast audience of gamers. The event is quickly taking shape, thanks to the support of Multiplay. There are some fantastic online and event sponsorship opportunities for the industry to get involved with the LAN tournament everyone will be talking about.”

For more information about PC Gamer Showdown, please visit – http://www.pcgamershowdown.com

Capcom Entertainment joins GamersGate

GamersGate, a leading PC digital download portal, announced today that Capcom Entertainment will be making some of its upcoming games available for digital download on the platform.

The initial titles planned for release include the swashbuckling RTS game Plunder, action title Bionic Commando - Rearmed and a wide selection of other PC titles in the Capcom Entertainment portfolio.

"The upcoming Capcom Entertainment titles are a perfect fit for our target group and a welcome addition to our growing portfolio, said Susana Meza, Director of Marketing on GamersGate. "We are very happy to introduce such a well-reputed publisher to our increasingly popular service"
"Capcom Entertainment is putting a lot of emphasis behind creating exciting, quality games for the digital space," said Christian Svensson, vice president, business development, Capcom Entertainment, Inc. "GamersGate provides an excellent platform for enabling our core customers to have direct, immediate access to some of our best, freshest PC content."

The return of Bishi Bashi Special!

Classic Konami PSOne title marks publisher's first download release via PlayStation Network in Europe
Konami Digital Entertainment GmbH has released its first title available via Sony’s PlayStation Network download store in the form of PSOne classic, Bishi Bashi Special.

Originally released in 2000, Bishi Bashi Special is the definitive party game, and comprises over 80 fun mini-games – each madder than the last. Converted from two of Konami’s Japanese arcade machines – Super Bishi Bashi and Hyper Bishi Bashi – the compilation is designed to test the player’s reactions, timing and stamina. As the name suggests, some involve simply bashing the controller buttons as quickly as possible, while others require pixel-perfect movement and extreme hand-eye coordination. All, however, are tremendous fun and doubly so when played against a friend.

The events go by such names as Juggler Panic, Burger Girl, Ladder of Love, Hyper Pie Thrower and Uncle Bean, and each can be played by up to three players simultaneously. The game enjoyed a huge cult following on release, and its reissue via the PlayStation Network is certain to engage a new wave of Bishi Bashi Fans. The game can be downloaded now and costs just £3.49.

"We are delighted that Bishi Bashi Special has become our first title on the PlayStation Store,” commented Hans-Joachim Amann, Head of European Product Management for Konami Digital Entertainment GmbH. “It is a game that enjoys a great following and there's a constant demand for it on forums and on Internet auction sites, where PSOne copies of Bishi Bashi Special regularly sell for incredible prices. Now we want to give all PSP (PlayStation Portable) and PLAYSTATION 3 owners the chance to enjoy this fantastic crazy party game at an as fantastic and crazy price.”

Bishi Bashi Special will be the first of several classic Konami PSOne titles heading to the PlayStation Store in the coming months. More details will follow.

Rockstar Games Announces Grand Theft Auto IV Now Available Worldwide

The first next generation iteration of the groundbreaking Grand Theft Auto franchise available in stores today

Rockstar Games Announces Grand Theft Auto IV Now Available Worldwide

The first next generation iteration of the groundbreaking Grand Theft Auto franchise available in stores today

Rockstar Games, a publishing label of Take-Two Interactive Software, is proud to announce that the eagerly anticipated Grand Theft Auto IV for the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and PLAYSTATION 3 computer entertainment system including the special edition package is now available worldwide.

"This release marks a major milestone for the series and for Rockstar Games," said Sam Houser, Founder of Rockstar Games. "Grand Theft Auto IV delivers on the vision we had when we began work on the game more than three years ago. Rockstar North has created an amazing interactive entertainment experience. We hope it will resonate with our audience around the world for years to come."

Developed by series creator Rockstar North and set in Liberty City, the latest installment in the wildly successful Grand Theft Auto series features a painstakingly detailed and life like city for players to explore; a rich, immersive narrative experience; an original soundtrack highlighting the cultural eclecticism of Liberty City; and sixteen player multiplayer with more than a dozen online modes.

"We worked hard to deliver a true high definition experience" said Series Producer and Rockstar North President, Leslie Benzies. "We are very proud of all of the innovations in the game and hope fans love it."

IGN.com scored the game a perfect 10 and writes, "GTA IV gives us characters and a world with a level of depth previously unseen in gaming and elevates its story from a mere shoot-em-up to an Oscar-caliber drama. Every facet of Rockstar's new masterpiece is worthy of applause."

Game Informer scored the game a perfect 10 and writes, "Grand Theft Auto IV doesn't just raise the bar for the storied franchise, it completely changes the landscape of gaming. Once you play it, you won't look at video games the same way again."

New York Times writes the game "sets a new standard for what is possible in interactive arts".

Gala Networks Europe announces the expansion Epic V - Dragonic Age for the free-to-play MMORPG Rappelz

The free-to-play games publisher Gala Networks Europe and the gPotato Team are happy to announce the upcoming expansion for the successful free-to-play MMORPG Rappelz. Named “Epic V: Dragonic Age”, this expansion will introduce new zones, new epic dungeons, new creatures and quests, and many more new content ! This free expansion will be avaible by direct download at the end of June 2008.

Launched in February 2008 in its French and German versions, the free fantasy MMORPG Rappelz knows a great success in Europe and the community has now grown to several dozens of thousands of players. With a dynamic gameplay based on guild wars and the ability for every player to get an pet creature, Rappelz seduced a community formed by experienced gamers as well as new MMO players.

The expansion “Epic V: Dragonic Age” answers the demands of the community while adding new content for high level characters. This expansion is also focused on the heart of Rappelz gameplay with the addition of new creatures and new dungeon. In order to insure the best gaming experience for all Rappelz players, this expansion will be installed on the live servers in two different parts: the first part will be avaible at the end of June 2008, whereas the second part will be avaible during September 2008.

Crash Bandicoot Speeds Onto Mobile Phones in New Race Adventures

Vivendi Games Mobile, a division of Vivendi Games, today announced the European launch of Crash Bandicoot® Nitro Kart and Crash Bandicoot Nitro Kart 3D, the latest titles in the billion-dollar Crash Bandicoot video game franchise which has generated more than three million mobile phone unit sales to date worldwide.

In both the 2D (for Java phones) and 3D (for Symbian devices) mobile versions of Crash Bandicoot Nitro Kart, players race on 16 thrilling new tracks through eight different exhilarating environments including underwater and outer space races. Players choose to play as one of their favorite Crash Bandicoot characters and race through an action-packed course with other characters from the Crash® universe. Ten crazy weapons and power-ups, including bonus functions like Kart Jacking and Turbo Plane, help players overtake their competitors and win the race. There are also five game modes including Cup, Arcade, Sudden Death and Monster Truck and an exclusive Story mode with in-race challenges to unlock special features.

“When we decided to create a sequel to our highly successful 2004 mobile game of the same name, we knew we had to set the bar very high and come up with the best kart-racing game available on mobile phones today,” said Paul Maglione, president of Vivendi Games Mobile. “We benchmarked all racing games on mobile phones – not just kart-racing games – and pushed the technology and graphics to the limit in both 2D and 3D and then added the craziness and attitude that make Crash Bandicoot games special. The result; a Crash Bandicoot Nitro Kart game that really packs a punch with all-new backgrounds, tracks, weapons and even different driving sensations.”

The European launch of the Crash Bandicoot Nitro Kart mobile game will be supported by an extensive marketing campaign including on-portal contests with unique Australian-themed prizes (in honor of Crash Bandicoot’s homeland); a Crash-branded re-skin of the main European mobile gaming Web site; and a heavily funded WAP (wireless application protocol) banner advertising campaign across key carrier and other mobile entertainment WAP sites.

To celebrate the launch of its 2008 flagship title, Vivendi Games Mobile is also organizing a Crash Bandicoot Grand Prix in each of the main European markets. The events will gather key players from the mobile gaming industry and selected consumers and fans who will confront one another in manic go-kart tournaments to win exciting prizes.

The Crash Bandicoot video game franchise to date has sold more than 40 million units globally and continues to be a big hit among both mobile and traditional console gamers.

Spyro The Dragon Continues His Epic Adventure This Autumn In The Legend Of Spyro: Dawn Of The Dragon

Spyro Trilogy Culminates with Premiere on Xbox 360 and PLAYSTATION 3 system; Elijah Wood, Gary Oldman, Christina Ricci, Blair Underwood, Wayne Brady and Mark Hamill Provide Voice-Over Performances

Sierra Entertainment, a division of Vivendi Games, today announced The Legend of Spyro: Dawn of the Dragon, the third chapter in the popular Legend of Spyro trilogy. Developed by Etranges Libellules, the game will be released this autumn for the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system, PLAYSTATION 3 computer entertainment system, Wii home video game system, PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system and Nintendo DS. Reprising their roles as the characters of Spyro and his mentor Ignitus, are two popular Hollywood leading men, Elijah Wood (Frodo Baggins in The Lord of the Rings trilogy) and Gary Oldman (Sirius Black from the Harry Potter films). Joining the Spyro roster this year are Christina Ricci, Blair Underwood, Mark Hamill and Wayne Brady, rounding out an all-star voice cast.

In the final chapter of the trilogy, players find Sypro teaming up with an unlikely ally - Cynder, his former enemy, to face his most challenging mission to date. As the Dark Master’s (voiced by Mark Hamill) evil envelopes the world like a plague, Spyro must fulfil his destiny and unlock the true power of the purple dragon within him to stop the Dark Master in his tracks.

The game introduces two never before seen elements into the Spyro universe: Spyro can now fly at any time and players can drop-in/drop-out with the new co-operative feature. The co-op feature allows players to have the option of completing the game as either Spyro or Cynder, giving them more freedom to explore Spyro’s world in completely new ways.

“Spyro has grown up a lot since his debut, and players are going to notice advanced gameplay, character design and story lines in Dawn of the Dragon,” said Al Simone, senior vice president, Global Marketing for Sierra Entertainment. “The game takes some exciting twists and turns – fans of the series and newcomers alike will experience non-stop fun, a renewed sense of intensity and the type of challenging adventure only Spyro can overcome.”

Developed by Etranges Libellules, The Legend of Spyro: Dawn of the Dragon will ship this autumn for the Xbox 360, PLAYSTATION 3 system, Wii, PlayStation 2 system and Nintendo DS. Vivendi Games Mobile is also making The Legend of Spyro: Dawn of the Dragon available for mobile phones throughout Europe and North America.

Crash Bandicoot - Mind Over Mutant on Wii DS PS2 and PSP

Crash Franchise Returns This Holiday In Sierra Entertainment's Crash Bandicoot: Mind Over Mutant

Crash is Back with New Abilities and his Signature Bandicoot Hilarity; Sidekick Coco Fully Playable for the First Time

Sierra Entertainment, a division of Vivendi Games, today announced the upcoming return of everyone’s favourite marsupial hero, Crash Bandicoot, in Crash Bandicoot: Mind over Mutant, the latest instalment of the best-selling Crash Bandicoot video game franchise. Developed by Radical Entertainment, a Sierra Entertainment studio, Crash Bandicoot: Mind over Mutant is scheduled for release this fall on the Wii home video game system, Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system, PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system, Nintendo DS and PSP (PlayStationPortable) system.

In Crash Bandicoot: Mind over Mutant, a rejuvenated Neo Cortex is taking over the world one brain at a time! Cortex and N. Brio devise a new kind of evil – a text-messaging, do-anything device which controls both mutant and bandicoot minds. Armed with his quick-wits and lightening agility, Crash must free his friends, the titans and save the day!

“The Crash Bandicoot franchise has built a wide audience of loyal fans, appealing to both male and female gamers of all ages,” said Al Simone, senior vice president, Global Marketing for Sierra Entertainment. “The Crash series remains one of the most recognizable franchises in our industry and we’re excited to make this year’s family-friendly title appear at the top of every gamer’s wish list this holiday.”

Key features in Crash Bandicoot: Mind over Mutant include:

• Mutant in your Pocket! - Not only does Crash gain the ability to control his enemies when he jacks them – now he can store his favourite monsters in his pocket, upgrade them and utilise their powers when they are most advantageous

• “Free-Romping” World Design - Wumpa Island becomes a “free-romping” environment, allowing players to travel and explore through intersecting worlds, with different gameplay options available depending on what creature you've brought along for the ride

• Girl Power! - Your co-op partner is Crash’s sister, Coco, playable for the first time in the cooperative mode. Not only does Coco make the game that much more inviting for girls to pick up and play, she also brings with her a new tactile “treasure hunt” ability

• New Abilities
- Roll and Counter Combat System - Crash will have a fun, agile dodge move and “counter” move which will inflict extra damage on his enemies
- Digging - Crash can now dig underground as real-life bandicoots really do; this will allow for Crash to unlock bonus items
- Climbing - Crash can climb vertical surfaces and jump side-to-side to connected areas and dodge hazards

Crash Bandicoot: Mind over Mutant is being developed by Radical Entertainment and will be available this fall at retail stores worldwide on Wii, Nintendo DS, Xbox 360, PlayStation 2 system and PSP system.

Zombie Wranglers on Microsoft XBox live - Fact sheet

Zombie Wranglers

Basic Fact Sheet

Publisher Sierra Online

Developer Sierra Online

Category Action

Platform XBox live

Overview/Storyline
Be very, very quiet… we’re wrangling Zombies!! Save the city of Potters Field from an infestation of zany zombies in the quirky and comical Zombie Wranglers, attacking XBLA in 2008! Armed with a trustworthy Wrangler-Pack and your own unique special abilities, play as one of the four gallant apprentice Wranglers and rescue your neighborhood before it’s too late!

Game Features

• Engrossing, Contagious Humor – Laugh out-loud moment galore enhance play
  
• 4 Distinct and Powerful Wranglers – unique upgradeable abilities, powerful weapons and screwball personalities
  
• Unrelenting Enemies – Including the grotesque Fast-Food Zombie, the fast-on-its-feet Skater Zombie and the loving Soccer Mom Zombie
  
• Exhilarating 4 Player Co-op – Play with up to 3 of your friends through the Single Player Story or competitive Arena Mode – Online or Off
  

Availability Q3 2008

Rating TBD

Sea Life Safari on XBox live - Fact Sheet

Sea Life Safari

Fact Sheet

Publisher Sierra Online

Developer Sierra Online

Category Family Games

Platform Xbox 360 - Xbox LIVE Arcade

Overview/Storyline
Embark on a journey the whole family can enjoy! Make a splash as an underwater photographer tasked with capturing the most incredible pictures of wild sea life. Use your camera skills to bring out the bubbly personalities of exotic creatures, from the silly clownfish to the legendary kraken sea monster! Entice your subjects into playful poses, provoke photo worthy reactions, and reel in those picture-perfect scores!

Game Features

• 60 Animated Creatures – Photograph the sparkling personalities of fascinating underwater sea animals to build memorable albums and your own personal scrapbook.
  
• 5 Jaw-Dropping Environments – Explore unique destinations from the colorful Coral Reef to the murky Ship Graveyard, filled with countless treasures to discover!
  
• Family-Friendly Tutorial – Experience a fully interactive tutorial that teaches simple step by step instructions on how to become a great deep-sea photographer!
  
• Intuitive Photo Evaluations – See how your photographs rank as you are scored on 4 different criteria: size, orientation, centering, and interaction with each fish.
  
• Endless Replayability – Discover secret routes, collect hidden items, and encounter special appearances by unique day and night creatures.
  

Availability Summer 2008 XBox live

ESRB Rating E