EA has decided to put this year's Stanley Cup Finals through NHL '07. They may have gotten game one wrong, but see how they predict the rest of the series:

Game One - Anaheim over Ottawa 2-0

Goals / Assists
Ott - none
Ana - Teemu Selanne / Andy McDonald, Scott Miedermayer
Travis Moen / Chris Pronger

Shots
Ott – 31
Ana – 38

PPG/PP
Ott – 0/7
Ana – 0/4

First Star – JS Giguere (Ana)
Second Star – Ray Emery (Ott)
Third Star – Teemu Selanne (Ana)

Teemu Selanne breaks through the Ottawa defense and scores the game winner

Recap - It was a battle of goaltenders in game one with neither team scoring in the first two periods as Jean-Sebastian Giguere and Ray Emery gave notice to anyone thinking this was going to be a high scoring affair. Both teams had a number of opportunities to score with the extra attacker as and even with a two minute two-man power play advantage in the second period, Ottawa was unable to beat Giguere who robbed Jason Spezza on a one-timer in close. It wasn't until the third period when Teemu Selanne broke loose and put a wrist shot underneath the pad of Ray Emery to put the home side up by a goal. Travis Moen added an empty net as the home side took game one by a final of 2-0.

Game Two - Ottawa over Anaheim 2-1

Goals / Assists
Ott – Mike Fisher / unassisted, Jason Spezza / Dany Heatley
Ana – Andy McDonald / Brad May

Shots
Ott – 43
Ana – 31

PPG/PP
Ott – 0/3
Ana – 0/4

First Star – Ray Emery (Ott)
Second Star – Mike Fisher (Ott)
Third Star – Jason Spezza (Ott)

Jason Spezza with a shot on JS Giguere

Recap - Ottawa came out shooting in game two with 16 shots in the first period alone compared to only 6 from the home side. Giguere continued to make outstanding saves in the first, but early in the second, the Sen’s relentless offense was rewarded with an outstanding individual effort from Mike Fisher, who intercepted a cross-ice pass in the neutral zone and deked out Scott Niedermayer before finally beating the Ducks netminder under his blocker for a 1-0 lead. Anaheim stormed back tying the game at one goal a piece when Brad May made his presence felt with a big hit forechecking and centering to Andy McDonald late in a shift. With 8 minutes left in the third period though, Ottawa broke the tie when Jason Spezza took a cross-ice pass from Dany Heatley, broke down the left wing into the slot and slapped a shot through the 5-hole to put the Sens up 2-1. With Giguere pulled in the final minute, the Ducks poured on the pressure with a few great scoring opportunities but could not beat Emery who shut the door in the third garnering him First Star status and a series split going back to Ottawa.

Game Three - Ottawa over Anaheim 3-2

Goals / Assists
Ott – Mike Comrie (PPG) / Daniel Alfredsson, Chris Phillips; Joseph Corvo / Dany Heatley, Jason Spezza; Peter Schaefer (PPG) / Mike Fisher;
Ana – Ryan Getzlaf / Teemu Selanne, Rob Niedermayer / Teemu Selanne, Samuel Pahlsson

Shots
Ott – 38
Ana – 41

PPG/PP
Ott – 2/3
Ana – 1/4

First Star – Ray Emery (Ott)
Second Star – Mike Comrie (Ott)
Third Star – Teemu Selanne (Ana)

Joseph Corvo leans into a shot that gets through a crowd to tie the game at 2

Game Four - Ottawa over Anaheim 3-1

Goals / Assists
Ott – Patrick Eaves / Mike Fisher, Chris Kelly; Dean McAmmond (PPG) / Jason Spezza; Jason Spezza (en)
Ana – Todd Marchant / Andy McDonald, Francois Beauchemin

Shots
Ott – 39
Ana – 33

PPG/PP
Ott – 1/5
Ana – 0/4

First Star – Jason Spezza (Ott)
Second Star – Ray Emery (Ott)
Third Star – Todd Marchant (Ana)

Mike Fisher takes a shot from a sharp angle that doesn’t fool Giguere

Recap - Todd Marchant opened the scoring for the Ducks looking to take the crowd out of the game with an early breakaway and beating Ray Emery gloveside top shelf. But even with the crowd grumbling and still finding their seats, Ottawa charged right back to tie the game up after Mike Fisher found Patrick Eaves in front of the net beating JS Giguere on his first shot as well. Both goalies dug in following the early goals and it wasn’t until the third period when Ottawa would strike again this time it was Jason Spezza finding Dean McAmmond on the power-play for a one-timer putting the home side up by one. Anaheim looked to tie it up in the last minute with the extra attacker, but when Spezza intercepted a cross-ice pass in the Sens zone, it was a few strides and a long shot into an empty net that put iced the game sending the two teams back to Anaheim and the series’ first elimination game.

Game Five - Anaheim over Ottawa 4-2

Goals / Assists
Ott – Daniel Alfredsson / Chris Kelly, Wade Redden, Peter Schaffer / Patrick Eaves
Ana – Teemu Selanne / Andy McDonald, Scott Niedermayer / Ryan Getslaf, Brad May, Ryan Getslaf (en) / unassisted

Shots
Ott – 39
Ana – 33

PPG/PP
Ott – 0/5
Ana– 0/4

First Star – Teemu Selanne (Ana)
Second Star – Ryan Getslaf (Ana)
Third Star – Peter Schaffer (Ott)

Teemu Selanne breaks in two-on-one with a shot easily handled by Ray Emery

Recap - With their backs against the wall, Anaheim pulled out all the stops in the first period with most of the play in the Senators’ zone. The Ducks were rewarded for their efforts with a goal from Teemu Selanne who took a feed from Andy McDonald and snuck one between Emery and the post on a wrap around. After Daniel Alfredsson tied the game up with a shot from the slot, Anaheim came right back when Scott Niedermayer beat Ray Emery who couldn’t see past big Brad May in front of the net. In the second period, Teemu Selanne scored his second of the night taking a long pass from Scott Niedermayer and skating in alone to beat Emery for a 3-1 Ducks lead. Right before the period ended, the Sens were able to close the gap after Patrick Eaves found Peter Schaffer in front of the net for his second goal of the series. After pressing for much of the third the Sens could not find the tying goal and gave up an empty net notch in the final minute to wrap up game 5 and send both teams back to Ottawa.

Game Six - Ottawa over Anaheim 2-1

Goals / Assists
Ott – Daniel Alfredsson / Wade Redden, Joseph Corvo, Dany Heatley / Jason Spezza
Ana – Andy McDonald / Teemu Selanne

Shots
Ott – 41
Ana – 35

PPG/PP
Ott – 1/4
Ana– 0/3

First Star – Ray Emery (Ott)
Second Star – Jason Spezza (Ott)
Third Star – Andy McDonald (Ana)

Ottawa celebrates game 6 victory and bringing the Stanley Cup home to Canada

Recap - Feeding off a frenzied crowd, the hometown Senators stormed out to a blistering pace peppering JS Giguere with a dozen shots in the first 10 minutes of the game. But on Anaheim’s first scoring opportunity halfway into the period, Andy McDonald made good on a one-timer beating Emery from the slot on a pass from linemate Teemu Selanne to put the visitors up 1-0. The Sens were able to tie it up on the power play when Daniel Alfredsson stuffed in a rebound after Giguere kicked out a long shot from Wade Redden right to the sure handed winger. The second period settled nothing and in the third period both teams looked desperate to score the go ahead goal. With less than 6 minutes left in the game, Corey Perry made an untimely pass through the neutral zone that was intercepted by Jason Spezza who was immediately joined by Dany Heatley. With Perry defending between them, Spezza made a beautiful saucer pass over his stick and Heatley made no mistake putting the puck in the back of the net, and lifting the fans out of their seats for good. As he did much of the series, Ray Emery shut the door on the Ducks giving the Senators their first Stanley Cup victory since 1927.

Next Expansion to Feature Asian-Themed Ships, New Faction and Exclusive 10-Masted Chinese Pirate Junk

SAN DIEGO, CA and DENVER, CO – May 25, 2007 – Sony Online Entertainment LLC (SOE), a global leader in the online games industry, today announced that Pirates of the South China Seas, the fourth expansion for the Pirates Constructible Strategy Game™ (CSG) Online, is currently in development at the company’s Denver studio. Scheduled for a mid-June release, South China Seas brings an Asian flair to this online 3D world of pirates, high seas combat and the search for treasure.

Western fleets are sailing the treasure-rich waters of the South China Seas and a new faction, the Jade Rebellion, has arisen to thwart the advances of imperialist navies. The Jade Rebellion employs two new types of ships – massive six-masted junks and the sturdy and resilient Korean “Turtle” ship. This new faction also introduces some new characters into player fleets; the inscrutable Ms. Cheng, the head of the pirate confederation and widow of the famous pirate warlord Cheng Yi. The Jade Rebellion also features her closest ally, the pirate Chang Pao; together, they’ve defeated every expedition sent out to destroy the Jade Rebellion.

Beginning today, SOE Denver is giving away a special promotional ship in anticipation of the release of the South China Seas expansion. For every ten (10) Pirates CSG Online digital game packs purchased by a player, they will receive the Baochuan, a massive 10-masted Chinese treasure ship – the largest of all the junks. Its size allows players to fit a larger complement of crew members aboard and capitalize on even more crew abilities, such as extra actions and additional moves. The Baochuan holds more cargo than any other ship; with 10 masts, it features four more cannons than the next largest ship, making it a formidable opponent in battle.

South China Seas will also introduce new game-changing events that can twist the outcome of your battles -- duel with your opponents, discover that your looted treasure is fake and summon rolling fog banks. As with all expansions for the Pirates CSG Online, Pirates of the South China Seas can be played as a standalone game, or combined with ships from other expansions. Single game packs contain everything a player needs to plunder the high seas for treasure.

For more information on Pirates of the South China Seas and the Baochuan, visit the website at http://piratesonline.station.sony.com/baochuan. For further details on SOE’s online trading card games, visit www.station.com/strategy.

Labels: Pirates, SOE

If you’ve been racing like a maniac in Burnout Dominator on PSP, here’s the chance to takedown your rivals on two brand new tracks from EA, available free of charge and exclusively by download direct to your PSP.

Available now is Carnival Point: As the late afternoon sun shines overhead, drift around long mountainous bends, hurtle past the sandy beach and wreak havoc in the downtown traffic of a South American metropolis.


Available on 7th June is Red Gate: Race and boost chain your way through the busy streets of an Eastern European city at night.

Compete against the PSP in maniac, road rage or race modes, challenge your friends over Ad-hoc, and set new highs in record breakers mode. And don’t forget to upload your best times and scores to the Burnout Dominator website at www.burnout.ea.com.

European download instructions:

· From the BurnoutHQ menu ingame via a wireless connection

· Direct Download from www.burnout.ea.com

· From www.yourpsp.com


US download instructions:

· From the BurnoutHQ menu ingame via a wireless connection

· From www.ea.com/burnout/dominator/


Burnout Dominator has a E 10+ rating.

KUMA has released a new trailer for DinoHunters’ latest episode - “I 8 NY” - taking gamers on a wild ride through the mean streets of NYC where they face dire situations and dangerous dinosaurs! Showcasing urban warfare with a primitive twist, “I 8 NY” is a custom multiplayer map designed for two-team firefights and free-for-all death matches around familiar New York streets and landmarks.

DinoHunters is a work of fiction that combines hilarious scripted sequences with stimulating first-person shooting. Using the hottest game engine and other sophisticated entertainment tools, DinoHunters combines comedic television-like movies with exciting game play in a revolutionary entertainment package, completely free of charge.

View the trailer:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f4uNeobovzM

Or download the trailer from our GamesPress site:
http://bhimpact.gamespress.com?p=1&i=522

Play DinoHunters only at Kuma Games: www.KumaGames.com/dino/

WHAT:

Joust™ will allow players to be the ultimate knight in shining armor as they mount their ostrich, grab their lance and battle through hordes of enemy knights! Dreaded lava trolls and pterodactyls are out to defeat players while they are reliving this valiant classic Midway title.

ABOUT JOUST:

A Timeless Classic - Relive the timeless arcade action and simple elegance of one of the classic 80's arcades games.

Simple and Intuitive Gameplay - Defeat all of the enemy knights from a higher jousting point, while avoiding the rapture of creatures such as the dreaded lava trolls or pterodactyl.

Multiplayer Action - Work cooperatively with another player or challenge people from all over the world with the multiplayer functionality. Track your score with online leaderboards to see who the top knight is!

WHEN:

Joust is scheduled to launch in North America on May 24, 2007, on the PLAYSTATION Network for the suggested retail price of $4.99.

Labels: joust, midway, SOE

WHAT: A New Player Race: The Arasai

With Game Update 35 the Arasai race is now available for all those adventurers contemplating the dark side! Maliciously mischievous and down right wicked, the Arasai are the evil answer to the goody two-shoes Fae of Kelethin. These rivals to the loveable, cute and brightly-colored denizens of Faydark, have a sinister look- players will be surprised at how much malice can be forced into such a small package!

And, just in time to create your new Arasai character, GU #35 also includes an additional character slot for all players & two character slots for Station Access subscribers! Go ahead and wreak havoc with your brand new set of wings!

Creation of an Arasai character requires installation of the Echoes of Faydwer expansion pack for EverQuest II, though the city of Neriak and creation of existing races are available to all subscribers.

A New Starting City: Neriak, City of Hate
The lost city of Neriak has been rediscovered! After centuries of war and darkness, Neriak has been uncovered as the new capital of the underground empire of the Dark Elves of Norrath. Also a new starting city for Trolls, Ogres, Ratonga, Iksar and the Arasai, Neriak lies deep under the forest floor of Nektulos and is a full city zone for players new and old to set as their base of operations. New housing is available, with the sadistic culture and atmosphere being just right for folks who like things a bit on the malevolent side!

A New Overland Zone: Darklight Wood
With a full suite of quests that will take new characters from levels 1 – 20, Darklight Wood is an evil doers dream! Buried deep within the forest of Nektulos, Darklight Wood has remained well hidden from prying eyes for over 300 years after the destruction of the First Gate and Neriak's Foreign Quarter. Newly created characters loyal to Neriak will start in Hate's Envy, an outpost in Darklight Wood.

Also, LFG and Moving Improvements, New Rules for PvP!
· A new LFG (Looking For Group) system is available. Find friends, slaughter foes!
· House moves just became less of a chore with the addition of a new moving service!
· PvP players can no longer use zoning to escape combat!

Information on additional enhancements included in GU #35 can be found here.

WHEN: May 23, 2007

WHERE: www.playthefae.com (Free 7-day Trial) ; www.everquest2.com

Labels: everquest 2, SOE

Diamond Bar, California - May 22, 2007 Ultimate Baseball Online, the world's only massively multiplayer online sports game (MMOSG) for baseball, has released the spring edition of UBO 2007, complete with an upgraded graphics engine and incredible new features such as "AI Match," (currently in Beta) which allows individual players (or groups) to take on the CPU in pick up games.

Since the first version of UBO appeared in 2003, players have been asking for an option to play against computer-only teams - for times when they can't find enough human opponents. In the latest edition of Ultimate Baseball Online, individual players or teams can create a pick up game and face off against a completely computer-controlled team. Players can even set the level of difficulty of the AI opponent they're facing. Best of all, in addition to allowing players to practice UBO, players will gain experience while using the AI Match function.
UBO 2007 spring edition will introduce a number of new graphical features, including new animation effects such as auto-replays of homeruns, cut scenes for strikeouts, day and night effects, in-game advertiser graphics, and a brand new UBO stadium. Additional new features include a "Player of the Game" award, wild pitch/hit by pitch animations, mid-career batting/pitching changes, and game score updates and player summaries in the Clubhouse.

Screenshots and video of the newest version of Ultimate Baseball Online 2007 can be found on the MMPR ftp site (http://www.mmpr.com/MMPRFTP/), inside the UBO folder.

WHAT:
Xfire - the seven million strong gaming community – to host chat with outrageous comedian Andy Milonakis on Wednesday, May 23 at 7:00 PM EDT/4:00 PM PDT. Star of self-titled series on MTV2 now in its third season, Milonakis is a master at oddball skits, entertaining celebrity guests and orchestrating amusing pranks on the public at large. A spin-off from Milonakis’ hilarious sketches on ABC’s “Jimmy Kimmel Live!,” “The Andy Milonakis Show” airs every Saturday at 9:00 PM EDT/PDT on MTV2.

Participating Xfire users will have a chance to win one of 30 prize packs that include a signed copy of The Andy Milonakis Show Quote Book as well as the complete second season DVD set. For more information on Andy’s chat on Xfire visit http://www.xfire.com/cms/xf_andy

WHO:
Andy Milonakis and Xfire gaming community

WHEN:
Wednesday, May 23 at 7:00 PM EDT/4:00 PM PDT

WHERE:
Xfire chat, http://www.xfire.com/cms/xf_andy

LOS ANGELES – May 22, 2007 – The long wait for Nintendo DS™ owners is over as they can now get their hands on their very first NARUTO™ game – Believe it! TOMY Corporation and D3Publisher of America, Inc. (D3PA) today announced the release of NARUTO™: Ninja Council 3 for the Nintendo DS™. Based on episodes from VIZ Media’s hit anime series SHONEN JUMP™ NARUTO, the series expands as the third game delivers 27 playable characters and features mission-based gameplay with 62 different missions for up to four players. Available for $29.95 MSRP, the ninja action game utilizes an interchangeable attack system allowing players to combine attack techniques from all available characters to increase their chances of success.

“According to Nintendo the DS is the fastest-selling video game system in the world and it deserves to have a fantastic gaming experience featuring the hottest brand – NARUTO!” said Mark Shinohara, executive vice president, TOMY Corporation. “The great thing for NARUTO fans is that NARUTO: Ninja Council 3 is just the first of three NARUTO games for Nintendo gaming systems scheduled for release in 2007, including NARUTO: Clash of Ninja MVZ (working title) for the Nintendo Wii, in the Fall of 2007.”

“NARUTO: Ninja Council 3 offers more playable characters and gameplay than the first two games in the series,” said Careen Yapp, vice president of licensing and business development, D3PA. “Not only that, it is the perfect game for the DS because the mission based gameplay offers great pick-up and play capabilities that NARUTO fans and gamers alike will love.”

Just like a true ninja, in NARUTO: Ninja Council 3, players will have to attack, defend or defeat as they train hard to perfect their skills in order to progress through the ranks in over 60 missions ranging in difficulty from moderate to challenging. Up to four players (wireless) can choose from 27 different characters with four different playing modes including Timed Mode, Scroll Collection Mode and Head-to-Head Versus Mode.

Labels: d3 publishing, naruto ninja council 3, Nintendo DS

An earthquake of information is building up in the distance, with no intent of slowing down before it comes into contact with our foreheads in what will should be known as the "Blunt Force Trauma Super Smash Bros. Brawl Weekday Updates." What am I talking about, you ask? Well, only the newly launched official website for the upcoming Wii brawler, Super Smash Bros. Brawl. At the top of the front page is a message promising daily weekday updates, for what I can assume is the time being.


Also included with the relaunching of the site are some brand new screens of the game, including the first to display the hit points and life meters fans of the game have grown to look for. You will also find a listing of the musical composers from the gaming world lending their talents to the game, as well as the games they have previously worked on. While this is nothing but wild speculation, you have to wonder if this list is a clever way of hinting at what's to come. You have composers who are listed as working on games from companies such as Sega, Capcom, Square-Enix and even Sony. I don't know about you, but I'm willing to bet at least one of those peeps is remixing music from a game they worked on in the past....


Keep your eyes and ears towards http://www.smashbros.com for all your future SSBB desires!

Labels: nintendo wii, super smash bros brawl

An original title developed specifically for the PSP system, DUNGEON MAKER: HUNTING GROUND offers addictive game play with a simulation dungeon creation element and real-time battles hunting for monsters to collect items, gold, and to fulfill requirements to complete the various quests given by townspeople.

The Story

An ambitious but novice dungeon maker arrives in a small town known to suffer periodic attacks from violent monsters. He buys a vast plot of land at the outskirts of the town to create a grand dungeon in hopes of luring in various enemy monsters which to hunt to collect gold and items. He envisions his complete dungeon to be one so appealing as to lure the legendary Wandering Demon. Defeating this menacing monster would free the townspeople from the fear he casts upon them, while winning acclaim as a true dungeon maker for the "Architect."

The townspeople are initially skeptical about the Architect’s ability to achieve his ultimate goal of building such a dungeon. Over the years, they’ve watched other such dungeon makers arrive with great plans but ultimately fail – falling prey to the very monsters they’ve lured into their dungeons or haphazardly abandoning their creations. However, as the Architect’s dungeon grows and improves, luring rarer and more powerful enemies, and he begins bringing back more valuable treasures, the townspeople begin offering support to his mission. Soon the whole town is involved in the dungeon making process; they give advice about the intricacies of dungeon making, sell crucial items, provide weapons and magic spells, treat the Architect when injured, and request various favors to be completed in the expanding dungeon in exchange for generous rewards.

Whether the growing hopes of the townspeople and the Architect will be realized all depends on the quality of the dungeon he creates and his developing battle skills.

Key Features

* Design and modify a customizable dungeon, floor-by-floor, using simple controls to quickly develop a deep and detailed dungeon.

* Strategically layout and improve your dungeon to maximize its attractiveness and lure in the most sought-after enemies to take their loot.

* Fight real-time battles wielding various melee and ranged weapons, casting magic spells, rendering special attacks, and summoning creatures to defeat the wide variety of monsters including undead creatures, orcs, and dragons.

* Enjoy the vast selection of building materials to customize your dungeon and complete quests to access the rarer items from the wide array of weapons, armors, and accessories to upgrade your warrior.

* Trade dungeons - Utilize network connectivity to trade dungeons with a friend. Show off your dungeon creation skills and explore a friend’s dungeon to see what kind of monsters and treasures lie inside.

DUNGEON MAKER: HUNTING GROUND is scheduled for release in June 2007. The title was released in Japan on September 28, 2006 and developed by Global A Entertainment, Inc. The ESRB rating is E10+.

For more information, check out the recently launched official website for Dungeon Maker at www.dungeonmakerhuntingground.com.

May 18, 2007 San Diego, CA - Sony Online Entertainment LLC (SOE), a global leader in the online games industry, today announced that registration is open for its annual Fan Faire event being held on August 2-4, 2007 at the Rio Hotel in Las Vegas. The SOE Fan Faire is a real-life social event held annually to allow gamers from around the world the chance to meet in person with other members of their online community. The event is filled with colorful costumes, passionate players and gigabytes of activity, making it the vacation destination of choice for players of SOE’s most popular games. Fan Faire attendees will also be treated to the world debut of SOE’s new online game.

“Fan Faire is an example of SOE’s commitment to our dedicated and passionate fan base of players,” said Alan Crosby, Director of Community Relations, Sony Online Entertainment. “A majority of this year’s attendees will have been actively playing our titles for many years and this event is a terrific opportunity to provide them with a ‘thank you’ in the form of a fun-filled and community-driven weekend experience.”

In addition to enjoying the game-oriented environment, attendees at SOE’s Fan Faire 2007 are scheduled to be treated to a welcome reception at the Rio’s famous Voodoo Lounge, a poolside party, the SOE player ‘Hall of Fame’ inductions and ceremony, and How-To forums, including a special workshop for game enthusiasts interested in breaking into the industry. Fan Faire attendees will also have the opportunity to meet the development teams behind some of the world’s most successful online PC games. With special activities being planned for each game, attendees should quickly fill their schedules. For the first time, this year's SOE Fan Faire will feature Vanguard: Saga of Heroes, Star Wars Galaxies and The Matrix Online in addition to EverQuest, EverQuest II, EverQuest Online Adventures and PlanetSide. In addition, Fan Faire plans to showcase a hands-on demo of Gods & Heroes: Rome Rising™, the new massively-multiplayer online game being co-published by Platform Publishing and Perpetual Entertainment, scheduled for release this fall.

This year’s Fan Fair promises to deliver a weekend packed with activities and adventure for everyone ranging from casual gaming fans to entire guilds of vacationing gamers who bring their whole family along on this quest for excitement. Game-related activities will include tournaments of multiple SOE titles, costume contests, a silent auction for game memorabilia, real-life quests throughout the venue, and exclusive ‘sneak peeks’ at upcoming products from SOE. With attendance projected to be in excess of 1500 of gaming’s most dedicated fans, Fan Faire 2007 will be the vacation destination of choice for online gaming enthusiasts.

For more information on Sony Online Entertainment’s Fan Faire 2007 or to register visit: www.soefanfaire.com.

Newport Beach, Calif.- May 16, 2007 Crave Entertainment, a leading publisher of console videogames for the casual gamer, today announced that Sudokuro for the Nintendo DS(tm) handheld system has shipped to retailers throughout North America. Featuring both the incredibly popular and highly addictive Sudoku and Kakuro logic games, Sudokuro contains enough puzzling goodness to keep even the most avid fans occupied for hours on end.

Sudokuro contains 1,500 unique, hand-crafted and an unlimited number of automatically generated Sudoku puzzles, plus over 5,000 Kakuro puzzles. Players may enter data either with buttons or the Nintendo DS stylus, and the game also features text recognition. With three levels of difficulty for each game, and a simple 2x2 Sudoku mode especially designed for children, the whole family can enjoy playing Sudokuro.

USA Today says Sudoku has "become the morning brain breakfast for millions of commuters," and the New York Times comments, "no puzzle has had such a fast introduction in newspapers since the crossword craze of 1924-25." Kakuro, often called a mathematical translation of the crossword, is second in popularity only to Sudoku in Japan.

Sudokuro is available now for a suggested retail price of $19.99.

Countdown begins for what promises to be bigger than any movie launch in history; beta preview and collectible Zune-Halo 3 edition digital media player add to early excitement.

LOS ANGELES — May 15, 2007 — In a year when Hollywood is launching its biggest blockbusters ever, a video game is set to conquer them all. “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 Master Chief’s epic battle to save humankind. “Halo 3” will be available to audiences around the world starting Sept. 25 and will release in Europe on Sept. 26.

“‘Halo 3’ is much more than a video game release; it’s the biggest entertainment event of the year,” said Peter Moore, corporate vice president of Microsoft’s Interactive Entertainment Business. “On Sept. 25, we intend to deliver a finale that will go down in entertainment history and leave people around the world with an experience that will be shared and enjoyed for years to come.”

Fueling the early buzz around “Halo 3”, Microsoft unveiled the multiplayer beta on the eve of its release at a star-studded event in Hollywood. Beginning tomorrow, May 16, Microsoft Game Studios will kick off the “Halo 3” multiplayer beta, which provides audiences worldwide with an exclusive, early look at some of the multiplayer elements of “Halo 3” on Xbox LIVE®. Adding to the excitement, Microsoft is also announcing a special edition Zune™ digital media player inspired by the hugely successful “Halo” franchise. On shelves next month, the Zune-Halo 3 edition comes loaded with a collection of “Halo” content, including videos, soundtracks, trailers, ads and artwork.

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 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.

The unveiling of the “Halo 3” launch date comes on the eve of the release of the “Halo 3” multiplayer beta, which will debut to audiences worldwide via Xbox LIVE on May 16 at 5 a.m. PDT and run through June 6 at 11:59 p.m. PDT.* The “Halo 3” multiplayer beta will provide audiences worldwide with an exclusive early look at some of the multiplayer elements of “Halo 3” on Xbox LIVE. Gamers who are interested in experiencing the multiplayer beta of “Halo 3” can still participate through the purchase of the critically acclaimed, Xbox 360-exclusive title “Crackdown™,” which was launched in February. Starting May 16, the specially marked copies of “Crackdown” will act as a key for gamers to participate in the “Halo 3” multiplayer beta. In addition to giving gamers their first opportunity to get their hands on the new levels, weapons, vehicles and game types, the multiplayer beta will also provide valuable data that Bungie will use in continued development.

The “Halo” franchise has expanded beyond video games into The New York Times’ best-selling books, graphic novels, collectible merchandise and now a new, special edition Zune digital media player. Encased in collectible packaging, the Zune-Halo 3 edition digital media player comes pre-loaded with artwork, trailers and music from all three “Halo” games, as well as an exclusive new episode of “Red vs. Blue” from the fan-adored machinima creator Rooster Teeth Productions LLC. The Zune-Halo 3 edition (estimated retail price $249) will be available exclusively at GameStop starting June 15.

...or at least a few, mainly 'September' and '25th.'

May 15, 2007 San Diego, CA – Sony Online Entertainment LLC (SOE), a global leader in the online games industry, today announced that it has completed a transaction to purchase key assets of Sigil Games Online, Inc. Through the deal, SOE now owns Vanguard: Saga of Heroes, Sigil’s tentpole property, a highly-successful massively multiplayer online game. The Sigil acquisition also builds on SOE’s successful strategy of cultivating game development studios around the world to further boost the company’s capabilities. The announcement was made by John Smedley, President, Sony Online Entertainment.

As part of the acquisition, a majority of the Sigil team will join SOE, integrating into SOE’s worldwide group of studios which includes offices in San Diego, Seattle, Austin, Denver, Los Angeles and Taiwan. The acquisition will strengthen SOE’s position as a leader in the online gaming space by expanding the company’s portfolio of gaming offerings.

“With an unparalleled team and exceptional product, Sigil has been a creative force in the online games space. We look forward to continuing the vision for Vanguard and to continue to deliver some groundbreaking game play,” said Smedley.

In May 2006, SOE acquired the title’s rights and the two companies agreed to co-publish Vanguard. The MMO launched in late January of this year and has sold nearly 200,000 retail and digital units worldwide. Sigil CEO and Vanguard creator, Brad McQuaid will become a consultant with SOE as Vanguard Creative Advisor.

Vanguard: Saga of Heroes takes place in the fantasy setting of Telon, a vast and ancient world of magic, intrigue and adventure where thousands of players from around the world have formed a steadfast community exploring the grandeur of a world crafted by the seminal fantasy artist Keith Parkinson. The game introduced many groundbreaking new features and an art direction second to none.

Wall, NJ - May 15, 2007 SNK PLAYMORE USA CORPORATION, the U.S. publishing arm of the SNK PLAYMORE CORPORATION, today announced it has shipped ART OF FIGHTING ANTHOLOGY for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system. The ART OF FIGHTING ANTHOLOGY will be available across major gaming retailers across North America beginning today.

ART OF FIGHTING ANTHOLOGY is a comprehensive collection featuring the entire ART OF FIGHTING trilogy. A total of 33 classic SNK characters are included, each with their own fighting styles and unique moves.
ART OF FIGHTING was SNK's second fighting-game franchise, set in the same universe as the FATAL FURY franchise, and serving as a prequel to the FATAL FURY saga. The ART OF FIGHTING series improved upon the tried-and-true 2D-fighter combat system with a spirit gauge that gave each player the ability to perform special attacks, as well as an innovative graphical-scaling camera system.

"It's great that PlayStation 2 system owners will be able to add the ART OF FIGHTING ANTHOLOGY to their game libraries at long last," said Ben Herman, president of SNK PLAYMORE USA CORPORATION. "The ART OF FIGHTING series holds a significant place in gaming history, being one of the first games to allow players to perform a 'super attack' during a match. It also is the first fighting game to introduce graphical scaling - as opponents move away from each other, the game's camera moves out to keep both players on the screen."

FRAMINGHAM, Mass. & NEW YORK--May 14, 2007-- IDG World Expo and the World Series of Video Games Presented by Intel (WSVG), today announced that "Entertainment for All(TM) Expo" (E for All) will be the last and biggest U.S. event for the competitive circuit this season, before it heads to Europe for the final two events. With more than $90,000 in cash prizes, the E for All edition of the WSVG circuit will feature four arenas of competitive game play on multiple titles, including the world's most popular massively multiplayer online role-playing game, Blizzard Entertainment(R)'s "World of Warcraft(R): The Burning Crusade.(TM)" Rounding out the competition are Activision's "Guitar Hero II(TM)," "EA SPORTS(TM) Fight Night Round 3," and Activision's "Call of Duty 2." Coverage will be available online and as a one-hour televised special in November. E for All will take over the Los Angeles Convention Center, October 18-21, 2007, in downtown Los Angeles.

The 2007 World Series of Video Games, Presented by Intel, has already vaulted to unprecedented heights after a four-day event in China last week that drew more than 90,000 attendees and awarded $50,000 in cash prizes to the winners. The event moves to the US this summer for events in Louisville and Dallas. E for All replaces Orlando
as the last and largest US stop on this year's WSVG circuit.

In addition to tournaments, E for All attendees will be first to try the newest, hottest computer and video games in advance of their release for the holidays. Other offerings include social and professional networking opportunities, game stages, the acclaimed Video Games Live concert and much more. Created by the team that produced E3 for the last decade, E for All connects all segments of the booming video game market - consumers, publishers, industry luminaries, media and retail.

"From the moment it was announced, we recognized that E for All is going to become the most important gaming event of the year," said Matthew Ringel, president and commissioner of the WSVG. "We knew we had to move our Universal Orlando event to be a part of this. E for All and the World Series of Video Games share a common goal of
introducing video game competition to a wide and mainstream audience."

"By featuring the WSVG at E for All, we're able to offer fans a direct connection to the energy and excitement of game play at the competitive level," said Mary Dolaher, CEO, IDG World Expo. "We're delighted to work with WSVG to offer the biggest US circuit stop for thousands of people who have a passion for games."

Upcoming World Series Schedule of Events:

June 21 - 24 Louisville, Kentucky

July 5 - 8 Dallas, Texas

Oct. 18 - 21 Los Angeles, California

October TBA Major European city

Nov. 29 - Dec. 2 Jonkoping, Sweden

SAN DIEGO, CA – May 10, 2007 – Sony Online Entertainment, (SOE) a global leader in the online gaming industry, announced that it is developing High Stakes on the Vegas Strip: Poker Edition for the PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system. The game is anticipated to be available for digital download through the PLAYSTATION® Network this summer for the suggested retail price of $9.99.

High Stakes on the Vegas Strip: Poker Edition will give players a chance to show off their skills in Texas Hold'em, Super Hold'em, Billabong, Tahoe and Shanghai. Each of the five different styles of poker can be played as limit, pot limit or no limit poker. Multiplayer is available for all games, and will allow up to six people to play together on one table at a time, in high definition up to 1080p.

“Being among the first PLAYSTATION Network publishers to release a game that takes advantage of the EyeToy™ USB Camera (for PlayStation®2) and other PC compatible USB cameras is not only exciting, but also puts the player into a realistic game play setting featuring live audio and video feed,” said Michael Lustenberger, VP of Marketing for Sony Online Entertainment.

Players have the option to log in for a quick match or play through a whole season. The game also offers a Turbo Mode to power through the tournament circuit to advance a player’s career. In addition, players can track their stats and see how they compare to others through online leader boards, and used points earned to unlock items for their customizable character. The in-depth hand statistics include stats such as percentages of hands played and won, flops seen, checks, calls, bets, raises and more!

For more information on High Stakes on the Vegas Strip: Poker Edition log onto www.station.sony.com.

SONY ONLINE ENTERTAINMENT ANNOUNCES EVERQUEST® II RISE OF KUNARK™

Fourth Expansion for EverQuest® II Currently in Development, Features New Playable Race, New Zones based on the Original EverQuest, Raised Level Cap and More


SAN DIEGO, CA – May 10, 2007 – Sony Online Entertainment LLC (SOE), a global leader in the online games industry, today announced that Rise of Kunark, the fourth expansion pack for EverQuest® II, is currently in development. Expected to launch on or around November 13, Rise of Kunark will be available at retail stores and via digital download for $39.99. Retail consumers receive the base EQII game, the Rise of Kunark expansion, all three previous expansions (Desert of Flames, Kingdom of Sky, Echoes of Faydwer) as well as a Cockatrice house pet.

“With Rise of Kunark, we’re continuing to build on the high-quality content and rich, exciting environments that players experienced with Echoes of Faydwer,” says Scott Hartsman, Senior Producer and Creative Director, Sony Online Entertainment. “By combining new content based on the original EverQuest with new races, zones, quests and items, we expect to deliver a deep and fun experience for EverQuest II veterans and new players alike.”

Rise of Kunark introduces a new playable race, the Sarnak. This dragon-like humanoid inhabits the jungle islands of Timorous Deep, a new starting location for adventurers. Timorous Deep presents a wealth of new content for levels 1-20, and is one of the many new zones being developed for this expansion. Many of these zones are based on favorite gameplay areas from the original EverQuest, such as Karnor’s Castle, the Lake of Ill Omen, Sebilis and Veeshan’s Peak. Guilds, adventurers, and artisans can expect to benefit from a raised level cap, as all level caps are raised to 80, in addition to new solo, group, and raid content for levels 65-80.

Hundreds of new quests will be added to the expansion, promising exciting adventures and encounters, including class Epic Weapon quests for all classes. Players will also be able to explore this new world astride a new mount – the rampaging Kunarkian Rhino. Dozens of new NPCs, as well as a host of new weapons and armor await players as they explore and unravel the mysteries surrounding the beautiful, yet dangerous continent of Kunark.


EverQuest II Rise of Kunark Features:

* All-New Player Race – Start up a brand new Sarnak – the classic dragon-like humanoid creature that now inhabits Timorous Deep. Exiled from your homeland and magically altered, discover how your new breed came to be, and eventually return home to help your race triumph over the evil Iksar.
* New Starting Area – Begin your adventure from the new starting area in the islands of Timorous Deep. Conclude your day of epic quests and retire to new housing within the Village of Gorowyn.
* Level Cap Raised – Continue your adventures on your existing character in Kunark, expanding on your achievements as Adventure, Tradeskill and Guild levels all increase to 80.
* More Unique Zones – Advance your way through new massive regions, containing many zones filled with nostalgia and danger, such as The Emerald Jungle, Skyfire Mountains, Sebilis, and Karnor’s Castle.
* Hundreds of New Quests – The tale of Kunark is told through hundreds of new quests, aimed at gameplay of all types: solo, group, and raid.
* More Weapons & Armor – New Epic Weapon quests for all 24 classes, with new weapons for both those who raid and those who choose not to. Battle through the opposition and acquire additional fabled and legendary armor sets as well.
* New Mount – Explore the world on the shoulders of a new rampaging beast - The Kunarkian Rhinoceros.
* New Deities – Recent activities on Norrath have again attracted the attention of the gods. Bertoxxulous The Plaguebringer, Karana The Rain Keeper, and the mysterious Tribunal return to exert their influences on planet. As with the existing gods of Norrath, players may pledge to these new deities to gain access to their Blessings and Miracles.
* Dozens of New NPCs – Encounter and engage a wide variety of new enemies that inhabit the menacing lands of Kunark.

For more information on these games, visit the EverQuest II Web site, www.everquest2.com, www.riseofkunark.com or www.SOEpress.com.

A free 7-day trial of EverQuest II is also available at www.playthefae.com.

REDMOND, Wash. — May 14, 2007 — This Wednesday, team up with up to three of your friends and prepare yourselves for intense side-scrolling, sci-fi shooting action in “Aegis Wing.” Originally conceived by three Microsoft Corp. interns over the course of a summer, “Aegis Wing” will be available for free to all Xbox LIVE® Silver and Gold members in North America for a limited time. “Aegis Wing” will be available for download on Xbox LIVE Arcade for Xbox 360™ beginning Wednesday, May 16, at 2 a.m. PDT.

“Aegis Wing” is a 2-D side-scrolling space shooter that combines epic space combat with fantastic visuals, and is set to a rich symphonic soundtrack. It is set in the year 2105, when humanity must flee a dying Earth for the distant world Europa. But this new home is soon threatened by a powerful alien race, the Araxia. With stolen Araxian technology, the Europa fleet develops an experimental star fighter and assigns four ace pilots to test it. The Aegis Wing is born, and it becomes your mission to wield this new technology as humanity’s last hope for survival.

Up to four players can play together either locally or over Xbox LIVE to defeat waves of nefarious Araxian ships and bosses, and can even combine spacecraft in two-, three- or four-ship formations to access powerful Super Weapons.

“Aegis Wing” was originally conceived by three students – Scott Brodie, Danny Dyer and Matt Monson – during a summer internship at Xbox LIVE Arcade. The students worked in tandem with Carbonated Games – the creators of fan-favorite, UNO® – to bring the game to the Xbox LIVE Arcade community. The full version of “Aegis Wing” is being released on Xbox LIVE Arcade free of charge and will be available for a limited time.

Game Features

Game features include the following:

· Amazing environmental art

· Full symphonic soundtrack

· Up to four-player simultaneous cooperative multiplayer gameplay, either locally on the same Xbox 360 console or over Xbox LIVE*

· Ability to attach your ship to your wingmen’s spacecraft to gain the “turret” ability and increase the firepower of the Super Weapons

· Four Super Weapons: the Hades Beam (wreaks total destruction), the Gorgon Burst (wipes out incoming fire and disables enemy spacecraft with an electromagnetic pulse), the Arcus Missile (a heat-seeking missile) and the Lambda Shield (deflects incoming fire back at enemies)

· Six epic missions and several memorable boss encounters to fight through

Where Can I Get It?

You can download “Aegis Wing” beginning Wednesday, May 16, at 2 a.m. PDT on Xbox LIVE Arcade. “Aegis Wing” will be available for download in North America only. “Aegis Wing” is rated E for Everyone, with Mild Fantasy Violence. More information is available at http://www.xbox.com/games/livearcade.

Latest Installment in #1 Best-Selling Action Sports Franchise Redefines Skateboarding Genre with Unprecedented Freedom and Control

Santa Monica, CA – May 14, 2007 – This fall gamers will be able to command their skating destiny in Tony Hawk’s Proving Ground from Activision, Inc. (Nasdaq: ATVI). For the first time, players will have the freedom to define their character, story and style based on the choices they make, the paths they choose and the style of skating they use on the proving grounds from Philadelphia and Baltimore to Washington, D.C.

Tony Hawk’s Proving Ground features deeper customization than ever before, including a Video Editor with full-featured editing tools and visual effects for creating “epic skate videos,” and a fully customizable online Skate Lounge where players can skate with friends in the ultimate pad. In addition, players will have the freedom to skate from single player to online seamlessly, as well as utilize new gameplay mechanics such as skateable terrain altering and building, and Bowl Carving, delivering the most empowered skating experience ever. Tony Hawk’s Proving Ground also features even more Nail the Trick™ moves such as Nail the Grab and Nail the Manual intensifying the thrill of pulling off big tricks.

“Tony Hawk’s Proving Ground drops players into the skateboarding world like never before,” said Joel Jewett, president of Neversoft. “This is the largest, deepest and most compelling Tony Hawk game ever. You can skate the best lines, define your own style and produce your own videos. You can even take it further by tricking out your own Skate Lounge, where you can hang out and skate with others online. Proving Ground will throw you so deep into the lifestyle of skateboarding that you won’t be able to get out. Hands down, it’s the most exciting Tony Hawk title yet.”

Santa Monica, CA – May 14, 2007 – The wait is Ogre with the announcement that the ShrekÒ the Third™ video game from Activision, Inc. (Nasdaq: ATVI) has shipped to retail stores nationwide. The fate of Far Far Away is in gamer’s hands as they assume the role of their favorite characters from the film – Shrek®, Donkey, Fiona, Puss-in-Boots, Artie and Sleeping Beauty – and embark on an all-new adventure to save the land from the clutches of the evil Prince Charming. The Shrek the Third video game is based on DreamWorks Animation’s highly anticipated feature film, which opens on May 18.

“Activision’s Shrek the Third game captures the film’s signature humor as it takes gamers on a grand journey featuring original characters and storylines created exclusively for the game,” said Kim Salzer, Vice President of Global Brand Management, Activision Publishing. “Players will enjoy hours of fun and engaging gameplay as they travel through the Shrek universe in 20 action-filled levels and encounter a cast of twisted fairy tale characters such as Pinocchio, Prince Charming and a dim-witted Cyclops.”

Shrek the Third the video game takes players on an epic journey through magical worlds while mastering each character’s special moves and abilities, battling villains, gathering collectibles and joining friends to complete challenging mini-games in either single-player or two-player multiplayer modes. The game also introduces two new playable characters from the movie – Fiona’s rebellious cousin Artie and her fellow fairy tale princess Sleeping Beauty.

The Nintendo DS™ and Game BoyÒ Advance versions of the Shrek the Third video game offer players unique gameplay experiences. The Nintendo DS version is the first DS game to offer wireless cooperative multiplayer gameplay through all levels. Told from Donkey’s point of view, the Nintendo DS game allows players to assume the roles of Shrek, Puss-in-Boots and newcomer Artie, and journey beyond Far Far Away with the help of Merlin’s magic wand. Shrek and friends must work together to solve puzzles and defeat enemies while overcoming a band of Prince Charming’s henchmen.

The Game Boy Advance version closely follows the storyline of the movie as the characters complete great quests that end with them saving Far Far Away from the villainous Prince Charming.

Additionally, the game features a bonus sneak peek at Bee Movie Game, based on the upcoming animated feature from DreamWorks Animation which releases in November 2007.

NCsoft North America has launched of the official AION: THE TOWER OF ETERNITY teaser website at www.aiononline.com. AION is a next-generation of massively multiplayer online role-playing games (MMORPG) being developed out of NCsoft’s Seoul headquarters. The official site provides a variety of never before seen in-game screen shots, concept art and exciting game movie sequences. The site also provides the very latest information, via a series of game lore features that set the scene for the upcoming struggle in a world torn apart by bitter conflict. This website will also allow fans of the game to keep up with the latest news, game information and future announcements.

Exhilarating Ninja Fighter Returns to the PlayStation(R)2 Computer Entertainment System

SANTA CLARA, CA - May 14, 2007 - Leading video games publisher and developer NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc. announced today that NARUTO: Ultimate Ninja 2 has received gold status and will hit retail shelves on June 12. Available exclusively for the PlayStation(R)2 computer entertainment system, Ultimate Ninja 2 features new playable characters, more game-play modes and unlockable content, powerful secret techniques, and the intense fast-paced action you've come to love from the Ultimate Ninja series! Based on the hit anime series SHONEN JUMP(TM) NARUTO(TM) from VIZ Media, Ultimate Ninja 2 picks up where the first installment left off with more thrilling ninja-packed combat and new environments.

Follow Naruto, Sasuke, Kakashi, Gaara, Tsunade, Jiraiya, and all the show's favorites as they battle the best in the land to become the ultimate ninja. While playing through the series' memorable moments, like the Chunin Exam and the Tsunade saga, players can earn money and customize their favorite character's strength, defense, agility, chakra, and even the moves they use. Embark down the path of a warrior with the new Ultimate Road game mode, which follows the storyline of the show and also allows players to unlock an original plot unique to Ultimate Ninja 2.

Players can perfect their technique in Iruka's Training mode then put their skills to the test with the head-to-head two-player VS. Duel mode. Featuring over 60 challenging missions, six mini-games, and a multitude of unlockable features including movies, music, collectible cards, and certificates, NARUTO: Ultimate Ninja 2 offers limitless re-playability.

Developed by CyberConnect2, NARUTO: Ultimate Ninja 2 is rated T for Teen by the ESRB.

For more information on NARUTO: Ultimate Ninja 2, please visit NarutoUN2.namcobandaigames.com.

We’re back with the latest and greatest news and updates from the “Forza Motorsport 2” universe.

With the release only weeks away, things are really starting to heat up in the “Forza” community. We've been bringing you news, updates, and car reveals, and now it's time to take those elements – and more – and customize your own fan site in the “Forza” tradition. Today, on Forzamotorsport.net, a new fan site kit for "Forza Motorsport 2" is now available for download. Included are Web site interface components, screenshots, desktop wall papers and other Web-ready artwork that is sure to get any gearhead revving.

The fan site kit may be downloaded from the official “Forza Motorsport 2" Web site at http://forzamotorsport.net/media/. Fan site webmasters are encouraged to register their fan site for official inclusion on the “Forza Motorsport 2” site in the forums at http://forums.forzamotorsport.net/forums/.

It's the age-old question: Which is cooler, ninjas or circular yellow dot-eaters? This week the Wii(TM) video game system's Wii Shop Channel gives gamers the chance to explore this subject in depth, with three awesome classic games.

The three new classic games go live at 9 a.m. Pacific time. Nintendo adds new games to the channel every Monday. Wii owners with a high-speed Internet connection can redeem Wii Points(TM) to download the games. Wii Points can be purchased in the Wii Shop Channel or at retail outlets. This week's new games are:

Pac-Man(R) (NES(R), 1-2 players, 500 Wii Points): Move Pac-Man through the maze, avoiding ghosts and eating all the Pac-Dots. Beware, each of the ghosts behave differently. When Pac-Man chomps a Power Pellet, he becomes invincible and is able to eat the blue ghosts. The more ghosts Pac-Man eats in a row, the higher the score. Don't forget to eat the bonus fruit too. Released in 1980, Pac-Man is the most well-known video game on Earth and is also commonly acknowledged as one of the most successful coin-operated games in history. Enjoy this masterpiece of gaming history today.

Ninja Gaiden(TM) (NES(R), 1 player, 500 Wii Points): Players take on the role of Ryu Hayabusa, a rising warrior in his family's clan whose main role in the world is to protect the Dark Dragon Blade from falling into the hands of evil. Ryu travels to America to seek vengeance for his father's death. Players fight their way through 14 challenging side-scrolling levels while defeating gangs of street thugs, battling evil ninjas and fighting barbarian bosses by using the deadly Dragon Sword, ninja skills and Ninpo (ninja magic). Players can run, crouch, jump and climb as they make their way through each stage and collect items to gain points, strength and weapons.

Ninja Spirit (TurboGrafx16, 1-2 players, 600 Wii Points): Ninja Spirit is a side-scrolling action game that amazed the gaming world with its precision graphics and quality game play. Play as the ninja Moonlight and engage in a fierce battle to avenge his father's death and unlock the secrets of his birth. Select between the original ARCADE MODE and PC-ENGINE MODE, which includes a life gauge. Use four types of weapons: katana, shuriken, bombs and chain and sickles to battle your way through the enemies. Pick up power-up items and switch between weapons to give you the advantage. You'll need to consider the enemy attacks and your weapon's abilities in order to deftly make it through all seven stages. Use your skills and attacks to get through the game's boundless enemies and traps. That's what ninja action is all about.

For more information about Wii, please visit Wii.com

Man your cannons and prepare to battle it out in Rampart™. Players can defeat enemy ships while preventing their opponent from damaging castle walls. In this classic Midway arcade title, strategy is the key to victory as players prepare for battle, build and repair their territories and fire away at enemies.

A Unique Strategic Warfare Experience - Brains and brawn will beat them all as players combine rapid cannon firing along with careful castle reconstruction on the road to victory.

Up to Six Levels To Conquer - Challenge the computer in up to six levels and combat against three versions of enemy ships.

Multiplayer Action - Challenge up to three other players online. Players can destroy their walls in addition to tracking individual scores on the leader boards.

Rampart is scheduled to launch in North America on May 10, 2007, on the PLAYSTATION Network for the suggested retail price of $4.99.

Vancouver, British Columbia - May 09, 2007 Hothead Games is pleased to announce that Ron Gilbert is working closely with the company on the development of its highly anticipated game title Penny Arcade Adventures: On the Rain-Slick Precipice of Darkness.

As the co-creator of the Monkey Island series, Gilbert was one of the foremost pioneers of the classic adventure genre. He created numerous critically acclaimed classics like Maniac Mansion and Zak McKracken before moving on to found Humongous Entertainment in 1992. Humongous released a number of successful titles under his leadership, including several produced under the company's subsidiary label Cavedog Entertainment.

"I have been a fan of Penny Arcade because I have always found their comic so funny and biting," said Gilbert. "When I first heard they were making a game and that they had chosen to weave adventure game elements into it, I knew immediately I wanted to be involved. Working with the Penny Arcade guys and the team at Hothead has been an absolute riot."

On the Rain-Slick Precipice of Darkness: Episode One is the first chapter of the planned episodic Penny Arcade Adventures game for Windows, Mac OS X, and Linux. The downloadable game will feature characters from Penny Arcade, including the well-known Gabe and Tycho. Hothead is working with the Penny Arcade creators and Gilbert in an intense collaborative development process.

Jerry Holkins, a writer at Penny Arcade, can hardly believe he is working with Ron Gilbert on a game. "I can hardly believe it," suggested Holkins. "The whole thing is super crazy."

Joel DeYoung, the game's Producer at Hothead, pointed out that even though Gilbert's contract with the company did not require him to reveal the coveted secret of Monkey Island, that has not prevented them from trying. "We've definitely tried to get it out of him but have had no luck so far," said DeYoung. "He did make clear that if he told us the secret, he would have to kill us. We're already down two programmers and a designer."

Newport Beach, Calif.- May 09, 2007 Crave Entertainment, a leading publisher of console videogames, announced today that it will publish the first videogame based on the wildly popular Fox Searchlight motion picture Napoleon Dynamite.

Napoleon Dynamite quickly gained cult-classic status with its quirky look at life in rural Idaho. Teens and adults alike love the movie's colorful characters and offbeat take on teenage awkwardness. Napoleon Dynamite catchphrases (Vote for Pedro!) have become pop-culture fixtures, with references to the movie popping up everywhere from T-shirts to ice- cream flavors. Crave's upcoming release will feature favorite Napoleon Dynamite characters including Kip, Uncle Rico, Pedro, Tina the llama, and of course, Napoleon himself.

"Napoleon Dynamite is one of the great cult classics of the past decade," said Mark Burke, senior vice president of product planning and business development at Crave Entertainment. "It's one of those films that has great memorable lines and characters, and we expect that fans of the movie will really like the game."

Hmm...could this be the first game to include digital steak throwing or upper lip shading mini-games, complete with stylus controls? We can only hope.

SAN FRANCISCO, CA - May 08, 2007 Gamers hoping to play Gurumin: A Monstrous Adventure, the Nihon Falcom action-RPG for PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system localized and published by Mastiff, LLC, should have an easier time of it, as Mastiff announced today that supply has been increased at a number of retail locations nationwide. Copies of the critically acclaimed action-roleplaying game can be found at retailers across North America.

Gamers in some regions had trouble finding the game in the weeks following its February release, as supplies were extremely limited; however, consumers who failed to find the game initially will have their patience rewarded - the suggested price of Gurumin: A Monstrous Adventure has been cut in half, bringing the price down to only $19.99.

"The PSP system has dropped to $169.99," commented Parin, the 14-year-old star of Gurumin, "So you really don't have any more excuses to not run out and pick up my game now. If you're still holding out, you should just give up video games entirely, and take up something more your speed - like needlepoint!"

"Between the increased availability and the economical price, RPG fans should now have no trouble getting their hands on Gurumin," said Bill Swartz, Head Woof of Mastiff, LLC.

Gurumin has won the hearts of dozens of reviewers, including Gabe Graziani of GameSpy, who said, "Gurumin: A Monstrous Adventure delivers the classic Japanese RPG experience and is simultaneously adorable and hilarious ... if you're only planning to get a single RPG for your PSP® this year, this could well be the one to play."

"Charming, full of personality, and with a gentle sense of humor, Gurumin is a bright and catchy portable game," said Heather Campbell of Play magazine. Electronic Gaming Monthly even compared Gurumin to a gaming legend: "Gurumin's solid gameplay and likeable characters make it the closest thing to a Zelda game you'll find on Sony's handheld."

About Gurumin: A Monstrous Adventure:

Gurumin: A Monstrous Adventure stars a strong-willed girl named Parin, who is sent to live with her grandfather in a small mining town while her parents are off excavating an ancient ruin. With no other children living in this town, Parin is surprised one day to encounter a young girl being tormented by a stray dog. After Parin drives off the mongrel, she is shocked to discover the young girl is actually a monster, and like all monsters, invisible to adults. Parin is soon invited to the mysterious Monster Village, which happens to be hidden right behind her town. Parin has just started making monster friends when evil spirits, known as Phantoms, invade the village and monsternap most of the inhabitants. Parin soon learns of the Legendary Drill, a weapon hidden underneath the village that is powerful enough to destroy the Phantoms. Thus begins Parin's quest to reclaim the Legendary Drill and set the world right.

Gurumin features include:

* Non-linear game play in over 30 stages set in a variety of environments.
* 23 non-player characters, 48 unique enemies, and more than 90 items to collect.
* 18+ costumes to unlock, and 15 equip-able headgear to level up.
* Destroy everything in your path with your legendary drill: almost all objects in a stage can be destroyed, and many hide money and valuable items.
* Challenging boss battles, puzzles and traps.
* Mini-games galore!
* Hidden characters, modes and other secrets.

More information can be found at www.gurumin.us!

New Chapter in the Epic Role-Playing Game Saga Now Available in North America

SANTA CLARA, Calif., (May 8, 2007) – Leading video games publisher and developer NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc., announced today that .hack®//G.U.™ Vol. 2: Reminisce™ has shipped to retail outlets across the country. In the newest installment of the epic .hack series, players will be able to continue the story from .hack®//G.U.™ Vol. 1: Rebirth™ in an engaging Action-RPG exclusively for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system.

“.hack is a series whose mysteries grow deeper with every installment,” said Makoto Iwai, Executive Vice President and COO at NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc. “The G.U. trilogy pulls players into a twisting storyline inside ‘The World’ and challenges them to determine the nature of reality by trapping them in a game-within-the-game.”

After the massive battle with Tri-Edge at the conclusion of .hack//G.U. Vol. 1: Rebirth, Haseo and friends learn they are incapable of logging out of the MMO “The World”. As the life of one of their own hangs in the balance, Haseo’s party begins a race against time to purge game servers of corrupted data.

In .hack//G.U. Vol. 2: Reminisce, players will enjoy a fully upgraded battle system including new fighting styles and in-depth weapon, party, and steam bike customization. Unique to the series, a new mini card game called Crimson VS will provide players with the opportunity to collect cards, compile the ultimate deck and compete against others in Crimson VS tournaments throughout “The World”. Breathtaking cinematics reveal dramatic interweaving plot lines and gorgeous new environments that will keep players enthralled for hours. Additionally, .hack//G.U. Vol. 2: Reminisce will feature the entire unedited first episode of the exciting .hack//Roots anime series. Unlocked from the start, the episode’s story cleverly ties into the events of the game.

Developed by CyberConnect2, .hack//G.U. Vol. 2: Reminisce is rated T for Teen by the ESRB and carries the suggested retail price of $39.99. More information about .hack//G.U. Vol. 2: Reminisce can be found at www.namcobandaigames.com and www.dothack.com/GU.

SEATTLE, Washington – May 8, 2007 — PopCap Games®, the leading developer and publisher of casual games, today announced that will give all subscribers to its free monthly e-newsletter one copy of Bejeweled® Deluxe, the biggest-selling casual game of the past six years, at no cost. To obtain a free copy that can be presented to one’s mother or grandmother, consumers simply sign up to receive The Fizz, PopCap’s monthly digital newsletter, via the link on the company’s homepage (www.popcap.com). Beginning tomorrow and continuing through May 23, 2007, existing and new subscribers to The Fizz will receive an email with a special link and unique registration code for a free copy of the full retail version of Bejeweled Deluxe, which must be redeemed by May 30, 2007. Presenting that as a gift to mom is as simple as forwarding the email or printing out the salient information and including it in a card.

The Bejeweled franchise has sold more than 10 million units and consumed approximately 2 billion hours of leisure time, and company surveys peg the Bejeweled user base as being 75% female and 89% age 30 or older. 44.6% of PopCap’s customer base has at least one child, which equates to nearly 100 million downloads of PopCap’s games by parents over the past six years. Bejeweled Deluxe carries a suggested retail price of US$14.95 and is available at all major games portals as well as at retail chains including Wal-Mart, Target and CostCo.

“Moms, grandmothers, and women in general have supported PopCap in many significant ways since we founded the company in 2000,” noted Jason Kapalka, co-founder and Chief Creative Officer at PopCap. “We wanted to repay that generosity in some fashion, and giving away free copies of the game that launched our success seemed like a fun way to do that.”

In the earliest days of the company, PopCap’s founders used their own moms as “sounding boards” for games in development. “We would set our moms down in front of PCs with early-stage versions of games such as Bejeweled, and just leave them there for awhile,” recalled John Vechey, another of PopCap’s co-founders. “If they were still playing when we returned, we knew we were headed in the right direction with a game that could appeal to a very wide audience.” PopCap continues to use mothers and grandmothers in the testing stages with each of its games, and more than two-thirds of the company’s Beta Test Group is comprised of adult female consumers.

“A free copy of Bejeweled for Mother’s Day sounds wonderful to me,” said Michele Lewis, a busy mother of four who home-schools all of her children, age 9 to 13. “From Bookworm to Zuma, I love playing the PopCap games – either with my children or by myself when I find those precious few minutes of ‘me time’!”

Famed Actor to Provide Voice Work in Game Developed by Bethesda Softworks, Creators of the 2006 Game of the Year

May 8, 2007 (Rockville, MD) – Bethesda Softworks® is pleased to announce that highly acclaimed international actor Liam Neeson will lead the cast providing voice work in Fallout 3. Neeson will play the role of the player’s father and will appear prominently throughout the game. Fallout 3 is currently under development at Bethesda Game Studios, creators of The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion®, which won numerous Game of the Year and RPG of the Year awards in 2006.

“This role was written with Liam in mind, and provides the dramatic tone for the entire game,” said Todd Howard, Executive Producer of Fallout 3. “Liam is absolutely amazing to work with.”

Neeson is known for starring roles in blockbuster films such as Schindler’s List, Star Wars: Episode I, The Chronicles of Narnia, and Batman Begins. Throughout his illustrious career, Neeson has been the recipient of numerous honors for his work in film and theater, including Academy Award, Golden Globe and Tony Award nominations.

“It’s been a pleasure bringing the father to life and working with the wonderfully talented people at Bethesda on Fallout 3,” said Neeson. “I hope the fans of the franchise and the game will be excited by the results.”

No other details on Fallout 3 have yet been revealed by Bethesda, although a teaser trailer countdown has begun on the game's website: http://fallout.bethsoft.com. For more information about Oblivion, Fallout 3 and Bethesda Softworks, visit www.bethsoft.com.

Following the route of Spartans, chivalrous Knights of the Cross turn east to face the onslaught of Genghis-khan's murderous hordes

Moscow - May 8, 2007 - Play Ten Interactive and WorldForge Studios today unveiled the new real-time strategy title under the working name "Golden Horde". Based on the same engine and gameplay principles as critically acclaimed "Ancient Wars: Sparta", this game is posed to start the conquest of the gaming community at the end of 2007. Taking into account the feedback from players of “Sparta”, WorldForge aims to create a brand new experience in the strategy genre.

“Play Ten is working with some of the best Russian and East European developers, who are making games of truly next gen quality. Our main task is to ensure they get a favorable response from customers and press everywhere, and we’re certain WorldForge will prove it is capable to deliver that once again,” says Dmitri Kruglov, CEO of Play Ten Interactive. “We’ve already established a position in console realm, and now it is time to brace the Games for Windows initiative. Together with our partners we’re aiming to do that in the nearest future.”

“WorldForge has experienced a considerable success with “Ancient Wars: Sparta”, and we owe a part of that to our publishing partners. We’re hoping to achieve even greater results with our upcoming projects”, said Roman Volkov, lead designer of WorldForge.

“Golden Horde” is a project that will capitalize on the most appealing parts of “Ancient Wars: Sparta” and bring innovate new elements to the RTS genre. Besides the well-known features, such as design of units by players, capture of enemy equipment and true to life physics, the project will include such marvelous things as use of ice in battles on rivers and lakes, and use of explosives during sieges. There will be three playable sides in the game - Crusaders, Russians and Mongols. Each of them will have a set of special bonuses.

Crusaders are to include German and Scandinavian chivalry, joined together to stop the Mongol

invasion. Their specialty will be the use of faith to convert the pagans to their cause and to aid the warriors in battle.

Mongols are the hordes of the eastern steppes, who have risen to put Europe to fire and sword. Their main strength lies in their mobile bases, which could be quickly moved from place to place, rendering enemy's assaults useless.

Russians are a grouping of East European nations, loosely formed within the modern Russia and Ukraine. They're accustomed to fight during winter, use weather to their advantage, and forests are their natural habitat.

The title will include 3 full-fledged campaigns, as well as a number of scenarios portraying historical battles. Those can be played by LAN or Internet, adding a new dimension to multiplayer games. Utilizing the power of AWE engine, the project will surely appeal to the fans of good RTS games, both those who liked "Sparta", and those willing to explore the roots of modern Europe during the turbulent times of Middle Ages.

For more information on Play Ten, please contact us at the numbers above or go to our website at http://www.playten.com/eng/

Leipzig, Germany - May 7, 2007 - The Games Convention Developers Conference (GCDC), today announced that semiconductor manufacturer, Intel, is once again the main sponsor of Europe's most important platform for developers, the GC Developers Conference 2007. Intel has been supporting the conference since 2004. From August 20-22, 2007, this year's conference brings together the international game development industry for the fifth time, right before Games Convention.

In actively supporting the GCDC for the fourth time, Intel underlines its important role for European developers. "Europe has a tremendous pool of talented game developers," said Arne Peters, segment manager consumer software & solutions Intel EMEA. "Europe deserves its own platform to share experiences, thoughts and views and information. GCDC is an important international conference and its success grows each year."

In talks and workshops, Intel will be presenting new multi-threading techniques and development tools at GCDC 2007. "Our long-term partnership with the GCDC offers us the ability to strengthen our cooperation with game developers and thus makes it possible for us to better respond to their needs and expectations," Peters continued.

"GCDC and Intel have a long history of cooperation, and with Intel we again have a strong partner for the international development community," said Frank Sliwka, project director GCDC

Company reports consolidated sales of KRW 84.7 billion, operating income of KRW17.1 billion and net income of KRW 14.1 billion

Note: 1USD = 929 Korean Won (KWN)

Seoul, South Korea, May 8, 2007—NCsoft® Corporation (KSE:036570.KS) today reported first quarter 2007 sales of KRW 84.7 billion (US$91.2 million), operating income of KRW 17.1 billion (US$18.4 million), pre-tax income of KRW 19.8 billion (US$21.3 million) and net income of KRW 14.1 billion (US$15.2 million) all on consolidated basis. Sales posted an increase of 9%. Operating income and pre-tax income both rose 96% respectively and net income surged 107%. Compared to the previous quarter, sales dropped 6%, while operating income and ordinary income rose 11% and 12%. Net income declined 24% on a quarterly comparison.

By region, stable sales of Lineage® and Linage II led to first quarter sales of KRW 50 billion (US$53.8 million) in Korea, KRW 12.9 billion (US$13.9 million) in North America, KRW 7.8 billion (US$8.4 million) in Europe and KRW 8.1 billion (US$8.7 million) in Japan. NCsoft also realized KRW 3.7 billion (US$3.4 million) in royalty income. Taiwan, which has been included in first quarter consolidated earnings for the first time, recorded sales of KRW 2.3 billion (US$2.5 million). Korea sustained a moderate quarter-to-quarter and year-to-year growth in sales of 2%, while both North America and Europe saw sales drop 28% quarter-to-quarter. However North American and Europe saw sales increases year-to-year of 14% and 102% respectively. By game title, sales of Lineage recorded KRW 30.4 billion, Lineage II KRW 32.8 billion (US$35.3 million), City of Heroes®/City of Villains® KRW 6 billion (US$6.5 million) and Guild Wars® KRW 11.5 billion (US$12.4 million). The percentage breakdown of sales by game title shows Lineage and Lineage II with 38% and 41%, respectively, followed by Guild Wars with 14% and City of Heroes/City of Villains with 7%.

NCsoft’s first quarter operating income recorded KRW 17.1 billion (US$18.4 million), a quarter-to-quarter increase of 11%. The growth is attributed to efficient allocation and execution of resources which resulted in visible success in containing costs. The implementation of a constant monitoring system including a Project Review Committee and a Milestone Review Committee was the main driver of the success. As a result of these efforts, operating costs dropped 10% from the previous quarter.

NCsoft’s CFO Lee Jae-ho said, “Our first quarter sales and operating income rose 9% and 96% respectively. Furthermore, we expect to attain sustainable growth in the second half after releasing a string of new game titles starting with the much anticipated closed beta testing of Richard Garriott’s Tabula Rasa™ on May 2. The game’s first primary markets are North America and Europe.”

In Korea, the company plans to launch full service for Aion™ within the year after carrying out closed beta testing in the summer. Also NCsoft plans to introduce in May the first phase of the upgraded version of the service platform PlayNC® with integrated accounting and payment functions. In North America and Europe, Richard Garriott’s Tabula Rasa and the new expansion, Guild Wars: Eye of the North™ will hit markets in the latter half of the year.
2007 1Q consolidated earnings (Unit: KRW mil.)

	Q1, 07	Q4, 06	Q1, 06	QoQ	YoY
Sales	84,715	90,221	77,973	-6%	9%
Games	80,988	85,463	72,183	-5%	12%
Royalty	3,727	4,758	5,790	-22%	-36%
Operating income	17,067	15,415	8,693	11%	96%
Ordinary income	19,773	17,652	10,113	12%	96%
Net income	14,121	18,650	6,823	-24%	107%

Beginning May 8th, Xbox LIVE, the most interactive gaming and social network available, is once again expanding with the arrival of Windows Live Messenger on Xbox 360. This new feature, available as part of the Xbox 360 Spring Update, will connect people across Xbox 360 consoles, Windows PCs and Windows Mobile devices. Xbox LIVE members will be able to socialize with people on their unified friends list, including their contacts from the more than 260 million Windows Live Messengers across the world. With Instant Messenger, Xbox LIVE members will have the ability to:

- View at a glance if friends on Windows Live Messenger have gamertags and add them to a unified friends list.
- Chat via instant messenger with up to 20 contacts in a single conversation, and have up to six different conversations at the same time with people on PCs, mobile phones and other Xbox 360 consoles.
- Instant message while playing games, listening to music or watching your favourite Xbox LIVE Marketplace content.
- Utilize the virtual keyboard on the Xbox 360 to text chat or connect a USB keyboard to the console. Launching later this summer, the Xbox 360 text-input device accessory will connect directly to the controller to support instant messaging.

In addition to the availability of Instant Messenger on Xbox LIVE, the Xbox 360 Spring Update will bring with it hundreds of other features and enhancements to the console. Here are just a few:

- On-screen pop-ups that immediately display the name and gamerscore value of a just accomplished Achievement, allowing gamers to see their progress without leaving or pausing the game.
- An even safer way to communicate through Xbox LIVE with enhanced family settings that enable different default settings for video chat and voice chat.
- A new, standalone Xbox LIVE Marketplace blade houses all Xbox LIVE Marketplace content in one easy to navigate space.
- Xbox LIVE Arcade enhancements that showcase what games friends are playing directly from the friends list. Boasting about high scores, comparing progress and checking out leaderboards are all easier now as well.
- Faster access to free, trial version of Xbox LIVE Arcade games through an improved Auto Downloads feature.
- The ability to fast-forward, pause and rewind video as it is being downloaded on Xbox LIVE Marketplace.
- Owners can now set their consoles to turn off after downloading content from Xbox LIVE Marketplace to help save energy, and download speeds have been increased.

The Xbox 360 Spring Update is free to all Xbox LIVE members. For more information, please visit http://www.xbox.com/en-ca/community/news/2007/0408-im.htm.

A crime spree on the Virtual Console(TM) this week has resulted in a trio of kidnappings, threatening to ruin the weekend of three classic video game stars Mike Haggar, Dr. Tomari and Mighty Bomb Jack! Do you have what it takes to bring their enemies to justice on three generations of consoles; NES, Super NES and TurboGrafx16? For the best retro gaming around, it's time to pay a visit to the red-hot Wii(TM) video game system's Wii Shop Channel.

The three new classic games go live at 9 a.m. Pacific time. Nintendo adds new games to the channel every Monday. Wii owners with a high-speed Internet connection can redeem Wii Points(TM) to download the games. Wii Points can be purchased in the Wii Shop Channel or at retail outlets. This week's new games are:

Mighty Bomb Jack(TM) (NES(R), 1 player, 500 Wii Points): Mighty Bomb Jack is an action/adventure game that was originally released for the Nintendo Entertainment System in 1987 by Tecmo. The hero of the game, Jack, must make his way through 16 levels of a pyramid in order to defeat the demon Belzebut and rescue the royal Pamera family. Each level is split into two parts; an action zone and a Royal Palace room. Action zones can be split up into several portions, and contain power-ups usually hidden in treasure chests such as money bags, Mighty Coins, and Mighty Drinks. Mighty Coins allow Jack to change colors; blue allows Jack to open orange treasure chests, orange allows him to open any treasure chest by simply touching it from the side, and green transforms all enemies on the screen into coins for 5 seconds. Mighty Drinks add 10 seconds to the game's timer.

Final Fight (Super NES(R), 1 player, 800 Wii Points): Jessica had it all. She was the daughter of former wrestling star and mayor of Metro City Mike Haggar and girlfriend to Cody Travers, one of the coolest and toughest boys around. But now she has been mysteriously kidnapped! Take to the streets with either Haggar or Cody and fight your way across town, deep into the turf of the Mad Gear Gang. As you cross the town, fight with all your strength to save the one you love. Enjoy unmatched beat 'em up action in this arcade classic and discover just who is behind the Mad Gear Gang in what may be Metro City's final fight.

Ordyne(TM) (TurboGrafx16, 2 players, 600 Wii Points): Ordyne is a port of the popular side-scrolling arcade shooter that includes simultaneous two-player co-op play as well as impressive visuals and catchy background music. The evil Kubota has kidnapped Dr. Tomari's fiancee, Kana, and taken the colossal nuclear reactor Ordyne. In order to reclaim them, Dr. Tomari and his assistant Felix take to their battleships and head off in pursuit. Avoid enemies and advance through seven different levels that take place on land, sea, and air. Collect crystals from defeated enemies and use them to buy items or upgrades for your ship at the Space Inn. Do you have what it takes to defeat the boss at the end of each level and ultimately reach Kubota in the final stage, Kubota World?

For more information about Wii, please visit wii.com.

I just received the newest Konami email newsletter today and thought I would share the details regarding their May line-up!


School is back in session! Enroll at Brooktown High and find the guy or gal of your dreams. Make the right moves, and you'll take him or her to the senior prom. Love is a game, after all... how will you play it?

Log onto MySpace.com/BrooktownHigh for more information, trailers, and screenshots. Enter the Brooktown High sweepstakes by adding Brooktown High as a friend on your MySpace journal and you could win cool prizes like games, letterman jackets, and more. Post your best and worst dating stories, and leave custom comments on your friend's pages with special Brooktown graphics. You can even download wallpapers, IM Buddy Icons, and mobile content like ringtones and phone resolution wallpapers.

You can also check out some of the characters from Brooktown High: Asia, Beeman, Elektra, and Hilton. Each character has his or her own MySpace page where you can get to know them. Every page will be regularly updates with new, exclusive content including character blogs, new screens, and trailers.

Add any of the kids from Brooktown High as a friend by going to:

MySpace.com/BrooktownAsia
MySpace.com/BrooktownBeenman
MySpace.com/BrooktownElektra
MySpace.com/BrooktownHilton

As you read their blogs, check out what they like and don't like, and get to know them. Everything you find there might contain hints and tips toward scoring a date with one of them when Brooktown High: Senior Year hits for the Sony PSP on May 22.


Earn your wings of glory in Time Ace, an aerial adventure that lets you pilot an awesome array of airplanes through time. Whether flying a WWII classic or a futuristic winged-attacker, gliding through the rough skies has never been so much fun!

The time adventure began when Dr. Hugo Clock thought he could bring about world peace with his incredible new time machine. Instead, the time machine he originally built to prevent World War I from happening is now being used to advance Dr. Klaus Scythe's evil agenda of world domination. Scythe is traveling through time to collect the most powerful weaponry the world has ever seen, intending to unleash these horrors on times and places never meant to face them.

It's up to Clock to chase Scythe through time in an aerial adventure that spans the past, present, and future. Clock will pilot some of the most formidable airplanes in history to bring Scythe to justice, including fierce WWII bombers, modern day fighter jets, and amazingly advanced space machines. But, even for a time traveler, is it too late to stop Scythe from ensuring a never-ending history of terror?

Time Ace flies its way into stores on June 12, exclusively for the Nintendo DS™. Developed by Trainwreck Studios, Time Ace brings fresh new ideas and simple gameplay everyone can enjoy to the DS's library of high-flying shooting games.


After two successful outings on the PSP® (PlayStation® Portable) system, Death Jr. is coming to give DS gamers their own share of thrills and chills with Death Jr. and the Science Fair of Doom. This time fans can play as Death Jr. or his gal pal Pandora, and use both screens along with the touchscreen and local wi-fi multiplayer to conquer a new host of bizarre baddies.


Death Jr., and the Science Fair of Doom follows the exploits of DJ and his almost-girlfriend Pandora as they explore their magically mutated school to rescue their friends and recover from yet another screw-up. This time they've released Moloch and his demonic hordes into DJ's school! Oh, and Pandora needs to find her body, too. All in all, a typical day for DJ, complete with madcap platforming action and a slew of devious mini-games.

Fans who pre-order Death Jr. and the Science Fair of Doom at GameStop, Electronics Boutique, EB Canada or GameCrazy get a special limited edition stylus shaped like DJ's scythe! This special stylus can even be attached to a DS Lite for easy carrying. Death Jr. and the Science Fair of Doom hits stores this May 22, so pre-order now!


SUPER CONTRA HEADED TO XBOX LIVE® ARCADE

Inspired by sci-fi classics of the 80's like Aliens and Predator, Super Contra tells the grim story of the second alien invasion stopped by the relentless super-soldiers Bill Rizer and Lance Bean. This time the enemy has infested the elite GX Army unit in South America, forcing Lance and Bill to turn on their own former comrades.

Similar in terms of gameplay to its classic forebear, Contra, Super Contra earned an immortal place in gamers' hearts by upping the difficulty and skill required to finish. Once again, players must battle through a series of stunning 2D levels that scroll through the action from a variety of perspectives. If Contra was the height of the run n' gun genre, then Super Contra was its magnum opus.

While little information about how Super Contra will come to Live Arcade has been released as of yet, Konami fans are already excited. Keep your eyes peeled for more announcements about Super Contra and other upcoming Konami games for Xbox® Live Arcade.

Want to receive all this awesome news into your own email box each month? Sign up for Konami Insider and never miss another newsletter!

TOMY AND D3PUBLISHER OF AMERICA ANNOUNCE SHIP DATE FOR NARUTO™: NINJA COUNCIL™ 3 – LAUNCH OF NEW NARUTO WEB SITE


LOS ANGELES – May 2, 2007 – TOMY Corporation and D3Publisher of America, Inc. (D3PA) today announced that NARUTO: Ninja Council 3 for the Nintendo DS™ will ship to retail outlets on May 22, 2007 and that a new NARUTO Nintendo Games Web page (www.NarutoNintendoGames.com) has launched.

NARUTO: Ninja Council 3 is based on episodes from VIZ Media’s hit anime series SHONEN JUMP™ NARUTO™ and features 27 playable characters and mission-based gameplay with more than 60 different missions for up to four players. Available for $29.95 MSRP, the ninja action game utilizes an interchangeable attack system allowing players to combine attack techniques from all available characters to increase their chances of success.

The new Web site will provide NARUTO fans with all the latest information on NARUTO: Ninja Council 3 for the Nintendo DS™ and other Naruto Nintendo games on one website. At this time, users will be able to sign-up for Naruto video game news, pre-order games and view game trailers, with more features to the Web site coming in July.

NEXON AMERICA TO LAUNCH GLOBAL ONLINE GAME PHENOMENON,
KARTRIDER, IN NORTH AMERICA


Closed Beta to Launch May 1!

Nexon America Inc., the U.S. division of Asia’s leading online games company Nexon Group, announced today the company will launch a North American version of KartRider. An international sensation, KartRider is a free-to-download, subscription free, online multiplayer racing-adventure game that is enjoyed by over 160 million riders worldwide.

Nexon will launch a closed beta test May 1, giving gamers the chance to compete as individuals or in teams with karts of their choice. Competitors can interact with each other online through chatting and community forums. Races are held on a variety of 3D racing tracks and courses based on particular themes, including the fast-paced Zoomtown, the dizzying sands of Desert Drift, and the icy Arctic Rim.

Nexon is allowing a limited amount of accounts to enter the beta version of KartRider. In due course, they will extend the exclusive circle of admitted beta testers. Interested gamers can register at website www.kart.nexon.net.

SONY ONLINE ENTERTAINMENT ANNOUNCES GAUNTLET II™ IS SCHEDULED TO HIT THE PLAYSTATION® NETWORK AS A DOWNLOADABLE TITLE ON MAY 3


Play as the Warrior, Valkyrie, Elf, or the Wizard in Gauntlet II™! Enter a dungeon with several hundred levels as players defeat monster generators that churn out wave after wave of enemies. Players can destroy them to clear the level and find their way to the exit! Collect food for health and magic items for power-ups while plowing through the dungeon. Brought back and available for download exclusively on the PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system, it’s time to re-experience this classic Midway arcade title.

Replay All Your Favorite Characters – Choose from one of four characters, either Thor the Warrior, Merlin the Wizard, Thyra the Valkyrie or Questor the Elf.

Dungeon Crawling Action in 100+ Unique Levels – Players will fight their way through levels in new ways by having the playfield turned in steps of 90° or the classic invisible walls.

Control Your Enemies’ Fate, Control Your Own – Players will race to make the enemy "It" and avoid becoming "It" themselves! Release the curse that draws all enemies towards you by touching another player or entering the exit. The medieval game of games is on!

Multiplayer Action – Play online against other players through the PLAYSTATION Network. Track wins, and see how everyone stacks up against other players through dedicated leader boards.

Gauntlet II is scheduled to launch on May 3, 2007, on the PLAYSTATION Network for the suggested retail price of $4.99.

Labels: gauntlet ii, SOE

Burbank, CA – Tuesday, May 1, 2007 – Delivering true air superiority into the hands of gamers everywhere, Codemasters, Inc. today announced that Heatseeker – the eagerly anticipated arcade-style air combat game, is available at retail outlets nationwide. Heatseeker gives players unparalleled control of the military’s finest and most sophisticated airborne arsenal as they skyrocket to victory over the U.S, off the coast of South America, over Antarctica and into the Far East. Heatseeker is available now for the Wii™ and PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, with the PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system version to follow shortly, and is rated “T” (Teen – Mild Language, Violence) by the ESRB.

With control of over 35 jet fighters and their variants, and over 18 land and sea-based missions to complete, players will be pulling off face-melting loops over and under bridges, screaming in low under the radar blanket and protecting allied fleets – all while facing a seemingly unbeatable amount of enemies. Teeming with more aircraft in the sky than ever before seen, Heatseeker is the ultimate blackout-inducing, close-quarters air combat game around.

Air superiority can only be achieved with the most advanced weapons, and Heatseeker has it all. Players can choose between 60 different weapons packs to take out the opposition, including everything from radar-guided missiles to rocket propelled torpedoes. And when the going gets tough, pilots can even rain down ultimate carnage upon their hapless foes with the power of nuclear-tipped cruise missiles.

For more information on Heatseeker, please be sure to visit the official website at http://www.codemasters.com/heatseeker.

Labels: codemasters, heatseeker

ATLANTA – May 1, 2007 –Turner Broadcasting System’s GameTap has reached a new level of play. After a winning 2006, the broadband entertainment network is expanding to feature enhanced subscription play, a digital retail storefront and a free-to-play, advertising-supported offering.

The first game that will be launched in GameTap’s new day-and-date subscription play and digital retail model features video gaming’s leading lady in her latest adventure, Lara Croft Tomb Raider: Anniversary. Through a “game changing” deal with publisher Eidos, GameTap will make the title available to its paying subscribers and for purchase at GameTap.com’s new digital retail store on the same date it hits U.S. retail shelves.

“This is the first new deal with a major game publisher that will enable GameTap to feature the hottest games of today and tomorrow for subscription play in the same windows as traditional retail outlets,” said Stuart Snyder, GameTap’s senior vice president and general manager.

In 2006, subscribers played more than 20 million games from the GameTap “vault” —more than 54,000 a day. The vault itself has nearly tripled in size since the network launched in October 2005, and GameTap has added over 500 games as well as more than 600 new content pieces to GameTap TV. Last quarter, subscriptions were up nearly three-fold, and the network has expanded into Canada.

“We’re opening the tap to the millions of website visitors to experience free-to-play games and great new original content at GameTap.com,” said Snyder. “By expanding our offerings, we are giving gaming enthusiasts more ways to play.”

Building on its 2006 success, GameTap will be introducing an advertising-supported program at GameTap.com aimed at capturing a new audience of “mainstream gamers” who are looking for a no-hassle place to play great games for free.

“While our paid membership model has attracted serious gamers, another class of player is coming to GameTap.com in droves,” said Snyder. “Mainstream gamers want to play dynamic games they can access at work, home or anywhere, and aren’t satisfied with the current portal offerings like card games and checkers. They want action/adventure, racing, sports, and fighting titles alongside the arcade classics.”

Debuting on May 31st, 2007, GameTap.com will offer more than 30 free games, with more added every week, from the most popular game franchises of all time. Launch titles include Metal Slug from SNK Playmore, Taito’s Bust-A-Move and Space Invaders, Lara Croft Tomb Raider: Legend from Eidos, as well as Midway titles Joust, Robotron: 2084, and Rampage.

Anyone visiting GameTap.com also receives a new all-access pass that includes original programming from GameTap TV, which features top music acts and celebrities weighing in on their favorite games, as well as original content like the GameTap Retrospectives series and the all-new Re\Visioned series, animated episodes that have well-known comic book artists and writers reinvent popular game icons. They will also have access to the new digital retail storefront, which will offer hundreds of the best new and catalogue PC games for purchase.

Vampires and ninjas and Shockmen, oh my! This week the Wii Shop Channel takes a trip into the world of ghoulish creatures, mystical curses and professorial abductions. See if you can remember which of these games sparked the whip-carrying craze of the late-'80s! For the best retro gaming around, it's time to pay a visit to the red-hot Wii(TM) video game system's Wii Shop Channel.

The three new classic games go live at 9 a.m. Pacific time. Nintendo adds new games to the channel every Monday. Wii owners with a high-speed Internet connection can redeem Wii Points(TM) to download the games. Wii Points can be purchased in the Wii Shop Channel or at retail outlets.

This week's new games are:

Castlevania(R) (NES(R), 1 player, 500 Wii Points): Step into the shadows of the deadliest dwelling on Earth. You've arrived at Castlevania, and you're here on business: to destroy the curse of the Evil Count, once and for all. Make your way through six monstrous floors filled with bats, ghosts, zombies and every kind of ghoulish creature you can imagine. Use the legendary whip Vampire Killer and a host of deadly weapons to battle your way to Dracula's chamber and the ultimate duel of good vs. evil.

The Legend of the Mystical Ninja(TM) (Super NES(R), 1-2 players, 800 Wii Points): In The Legend of The Mystical Ninja, take control of Kid Ying and Dr. Yang in an action adventure through feudal Japan. A curse has stricken the village of Horo-Horo, and its beloved princess has vanished. Together Kid Ying, a daring young mystical ninja, and Dr. Yang, master of the invincible spirit transformation, must overcome 10 levels of the Dragonbeast to save Princess Yuki. Each stage contains intense 3-D and 2-D zones where the duo must perform dozens of attack moves and solve magical problems and puzzles before advancing. Battle humorous enemies like the Carp Meister, who stuns victims with poisonous fighting fish, Tanaka-U-Out, a knockout artist who wallops opponents with a bone-crushing hammer, and the Sumo Tag Team, kings of the unbeatable belly-buster crunch. Collect coins to buy new equipment and to receive clues, spend some time playing minigames in the arcade or try your luck and increase your fortune at the Quiz House and Horse Races.

Shockman (TurboGrafx16, 1-2 players, 600 Wii Points): It's been two years since Arnold and Sonya were made into Shockmen. A message from the professor to return to their bodies has them head to his laboratory, but they are ambushed by a mysterious enemy along the way. After narrowly defeating the enemy, they catch a TV news flash announcing the Ryo Empire invasion. They find that the professor has been abducted and set out to rescue him. Shockman is a side-view action shooter that has eight stages, including Action Stages, where you jump and use special techniques, and side-scrolling Shooting Stages. This game expands on the well-paced story from the previous version and contains cooperative elements like shared life and a powerful Team Shockbeam that can be used during two-player simultaneous play.

Brush up on your plans for expansion and hone your trading strategies because “Catan” is coming to Xbox LIVE Arcade for Xbox 360 this Wednesday, May. 2 at 0900 GMT (2:00 a.m. Pacific).

“Catan” from Big Huge Games is the Xbox LIVE Arcade edition of the legendary multiplayer board game Settlers of Catan. With over 10 million units sold, Settlers of Catan is one of the most popular board games to hail from Europe, and has been translated into twenty-five languages from the original German.

“Catan” for Xbox LIVE Arcade puts players in the role of colonists on a newly discovered island, where they vie for control of valuable territory and resources through strategy and trading. The game can be learned in just minutes, but will challenge players of all skill levels, even the experts!

Klaus Teuber, creator of the original Settlers of Catan board game, had this to say about the collaboration with Big Huge Games: "I had no doubts that Brian Reynolds would do a great job, and the first version of the game exceeded my highest expectations. The AI is so clever that I even lost several games in a row! Hands down, this game for the Xbox LIVE Arcade is an amazing achievement."

“Catan” will be available worldwide for 800 Microsoft Points and is rated E for Everyone.

Game Features
- Learn As You Play tutorial, making the game instantly accessible even to players who have never played “Settlers of Catan” before
- All New 3D "Living World" Board
- Play against any combination of 13 historical personalities such as Alexander, Cleopatra and Tokugawa, which provide a range of play styles and difficulty levels that will test players’ wits and strategy
- Fans of the board game will enjoy the inclusion of popular house rules like Friendly Robber and Friendly Resources
- Multiplayer gameplay over Xbox LIVE for up to 4 players
- The ability to taunt opponents with engaging animations and use emotes to compliment (or belittle!) the opposition over Xbox LIVE
- Voice Chat enabled
- Earn up to 12 Achievements and 200 Gamerscore points

Two of Atari’s best loved coin-op classics, “Centipede” and “Millipede,” will be available for download on Xbox LIVE Arcade for Xbox 360 beginning Wednesday, May 2 at 0900 GMT (2:00 a.m. Pacific).

The classic version of “Centipede” challenges gamers to defend their villages against an onslaught of centipedes, spiders, army ants and more. Xbox LIVE Arcade gamers will also have access to an “Evolved” version which features pre-rendered, high definition graphics, special effects like motion blur, trails and particle-based explosions that make this classic as enjoyable today as it was in the arcade decades ago.

In “Millipede,” the primary challenge is to obliterate chains of arthropods that creep down from the top of the screen. Scattered mushrooms are the gamers’ main tool to shoot, destroy and redirect the menacing millipedes. “Millipede” also offers up Xbox LIVE Arcade gamers an “Evolved” version of this coin-op classic.

“Centipede” and “Millipede” will be available worldwide as a joint download for 400 Microsoft Points and are rated E for Everyone.

Game Features
- Two games in one! Enjoy both classic and evolved versions of both “Centipede” and “Millipede”
- Dolby Digital surround sound
- Earn up to 12 Achievements and 200 Gamerscore points

More information is available at http://www.xbox.com/en-ca/games/livearcade.

This last year has brought events, contests, two major updates, the end of the Chaotic Chronicle saga, and the beginning of a new chapter for Lineage II. The future will bring many exciting additions and changes as your adventures continue in the chaotic lands of Aden and Elmore.

Lineage II North America/Europe Fun Facts

* Number of free major content updates: 6
* Number of contests and events: 42
* Number of players who have tried Lineage II worldwide: Over 17 million
* Number of characters at level 80 (highest level): 33
* Number of clans: 57,285
* Number of Striders: 7,233
* Number of Chrono souvenir items: 2,418,054
* Number of pets (Hatchlings, Wolf, Baby pets): 128,898
* Number of characters created since launch: 3,821,773
* Number of castle sieges since launch: 2,228
* Number of deaths since launch: 618,978,656
* Number of chaotic characters: 86,176

Thank you to all of our North American and European players for your passion and dedication. See you in the world of Lineage II!

London, 1st May 2007. Sony Computer Entertainment Europe (SCEE) today announced the arrival of the PSP™(PlayStation®Portable) camera, Go!Cam.

To be released on 16th May 2007 across Europe and the PAL territories, Go!Cam promises to bring the creativity of film, photos and the fun of PSP together to create a camera for all ages and all occasions. With a retail price of €49.99 (£34.99), Go!Cam is yet another example of how PSP is a mobile entertainment system with no limits.

With up to two and half hours video recording time and the ability to take and store over 40,000 photos*, Go!Cam seamlessly converts PSP to a portable, functional and fun camera.

Go!Cam offers a built in microphone to ensure continuous audio, the ability to change the direction of the camera lens vertically by 180 degrees and Go!Edit, an editing software package which allows users to save and edit photos, video and audio clips.

''Go!Cam is fantastic news for all those PSP owners looking for something new, fun and creative,” said Stephane Hareau, PSP Marketing Manager, Sony Computer Entertainment Europe. “With Summer around the corner and the ability to turn your PSP into a mini [A1] camcorder and capture all the best moments in your life, this is yet another reason to get a PSP and to take advantage of truly portable entertainment. It demonstrates yet again the potential, versatility and evolving nature of PSP.''

On Thursday, May 3, at 9 a.m. GMT, Xbox LIVE® gamers should ready their weapons and prepare for battle as “Gears of War®”, rated M for Mature, releases four new action-packed multiplayer maps in the thrilling “Hidden Fronts” Multiplayer Map Pack. For 800 Microsoft points, COG soldiers and the Locust Horde will clash once again for control of these four dynamic new areas, including Bullet Marsh, Garden, Process and Subway.

BULLET MARSH: In this Kryll-infested swamp, an old generator still powers the area lights. A few stray bullets could easily knock out the generator, leaving combatants to fend for themselves against the Kryll.

GARDEN: This overgrown and crumbling conservatory still has a working fertilization and pesticide system. This system can pose a serious hazard to anyone who ventures into the greenhouse without first venting the air.

PROCESS: Teams must fight for control of this subterranean Imulsion processing plant, still active despite the cessation of the Pendulum wars.

SUBWAY: Timgad’s Central Subway station used to serve as a central hub for commuters. Now the tunnels are crawling with Locust.

The “Hidden Fronts” Multiplayer Map Pack will explode onto Xbox LIVE Marketplace on May 3 for 800 Microsoft Points as gamers steady their aim, pull the pin from their grenades and get ready to battle once more! All four of the new maps will be made available at no cost over Xbox LIVE on Sept. 3, 2007.

London, 1st May 2007. Sony Computer Entertainment Europe (SCEE) today announced that the first phase, closed beta test for Home, the 3D, online, avatar based community for PLAYSTATION®3 had begun.

Starting with an initially small group of both internal staff and known beta testers, the test will be opened up to many others at some point during the summer, including those registered on www.homebetatrial.com.