Here is the second of the two Disgaea Afternoon of Darkness trailers sent over today! This one is called Etna Mode!

Labels: Disgaea Afternoon of Darkness, NIS America, PSP

NIS America sent over two new trailers for Disgaea: Afternoon of Darkness! Check out trailer #2 - Geo Cube!

Labels: Disgaea Afternoon of Darkness, NIS America, PSP

SCHOLASTIC MEDIA ANNOUNCES ANIMAL GENIUS™ FOR THE NINTENDO DS™ NOW AVAILABLE IN STORES

Go wild to challenge your animal IQ in stores now!

NEW YORK - September 28, 2007- Scholastic Media (SM), a leading producer of quality, family-oriented media including feature films, home video, TV and interactive products, and a division of Scholastic Inc., today announced Animal Genius for the Nintendo DS is now available in retail outlets nationwide. Featuring brain-twisting trivia, fast-paced and challenging mini-games, and hundreds of high-quality, realistic photos of animals, Animal Genius appeals to all ages and is guaranteed to captivate with hours of animal-loving fun. Animal Genius is now available in retail stores for the suggested retail price of $29.99.

"Scholastic Interactive is dedicated to providing the highest quality gaming experience to our fans," said Alan Waldman, SVP and General Manager of Scholastic Media's Interactive Products Group. "Animal Genius combines a topic kids are passionate about with unique trivia game play patterns-all while leveraging the capabilities of the Nintendo DS platform to create a challenging and immersive gaming experience."

Over 140 different rounds of game play await gamers in Animal Genius, providing hours of diverse gaming entertainment. Players rack up points to earn 25 animals for five different habitats in this immersive casual game.

Labels: Animal Genius, Nintendo DS, Scholastic

SCHOLASTIC MEDIA ANNOUNCES I SPY™ FUN HOUSE FOR THE NINTENDO DS™ NOW AVAILABLE IN STORES

Enter the topsy-turvy world of carnival fun in stores now!

NEW YORK - September 28, 2007- Scholastic Media (SM), a leading producer of quality, family-oriented media including feature films, home video, TV and interactive products, and a division of Scholastic Inc., today announced the latest installment in the popular "I SPY™" interactive franchise, I SPY Fun House is now available in retail outlets nationwide. Featuring the series' signature puzzle-based action, I SPY Funhouse takes full advantage of the unique capabilities of the Nintendo DS™ platform. Players must use the stylus and touch-screen to navigate through a topsy-turvy funhouse where nothing is what it seems. I SPY Fun House, rated "E" for Everyone by the ESRB and designed for players of all ages and skill levels, is now available for the retail price of $29.99.

Once players enter the Fun House, there's no turning back. Inside the Fun House, players discover six fascinating riddle screens with 18 challenging I SPY riddles and three games - titled Hoop Shot, Pop 'n' Drop and Listen Up!, which deliver fast-paced action utilizing Nintendo DS stylus-based game play and dual-screen compatibility. To escape the Fun House, players must earn 10 tickets by playing games and riddles and then complete one last challenge-the Prize Popper.

Alan Waldman, SVP and General Manager of Scholastic Media's Interactive Products Group commented: "We are thrilled to offer Nintendo DS players the challenging riddles and puzzles of the I SPY brand. With over 100 levels of play, dual-screen games and rich gaming environments, I SPY Fun House offers players fun and compelling entertainment."

Labels: I SPY Fun House, Nintendo DS, Scholastic

Second expansion pack for massively popular Games for Windows franchise adds Eastern flare, hits store shelves Oct. 23rd

Microsoft Game Studios today announced that the eagerly awaited “Age of Empires III: The Asian Dynasties,” the second expansion pack for “Age of Empires III,” has gone gold and will hit retailers throughout North America on Oct. 23rd.

From renowned real-time strategy developers Big Huge Games and Ensemble Studios, “Age of Empires III: The Asian Dynasties” introduces gamers to Asian civilizations and a host of new gameplay features. Players will experience firsthand the rich and historical influences of Asia while commanding their units and expanding their empire in the Eastern world.

In addition to the introduction of playable Asian civilizations to Age of Empires III, the expansion pack provides new content, new ways of winning and trading, random map styles that feature remixes of classic “Age of Empires” game styles, and the return of Wonders - a favorite gameplay element in “Age of Empires II.” These new features will coincide with the basic core gameplay of “Age of Empires III” that gamers have come to know and love. “Age of Empires III: The Asian Dynasties” will also ship as a Games for Windows title with easier installation, enhanced reliability standards and support for key Windows Vista features, including the Games Explorer and Parental Controls.

“Age of Empires” and real-time strategy buffs can pick up "Age of Empires III: The Asian Dynasties” for the estimated retail price of $29.99 for Windows. “Age of Empires III: The Asian Dynasties” is rated “T” for Teen, for gamers 13 years old and above. “Age of Empires III” is required to play “Age of Empires III: The Asian Dynasties.” For more information, please visit www.ageofempires3.com.

Labels: Age of Empires III The Asian Dynasties, Microsoft, PC

Midway today announced an exclusive PC collector's edition for the highly anticipated first-person shooter, Unreal Tournament 3. This limited edition is encased in a special tin hard cover. Included is an Art Book featuring the flawless art style found in the vehicles, characters, weapons and environments that are signature trademarks of the Unreal Tournament 3 universe. In addition, the limited collector's edition includes bonus DVD extras, featuring:

• Unreal Engine 3 Toolkit Video Tutorials - More than 10 hours of in-depth tutorials about game modifications that can help players break into the game development business
• The History of Unreal Tournament - Take a look at the history of Unreal Tournament, while hearing first-hand interviews with the creators and team behind the legacy.
• Behind the Scenes of Unreal Tournament 3 - Get a deeper look behind the making of the FPS giant and how the dedicated team at Epic Games crafted its return.

The limited collector's edition will be available in limited quantity at select retailers for a suggested retail price in the U.S. of $59.95, available November 2007.

This limited collector's edition will also be available across the UK, Europe, South Africa, Russia, Australia and most other territories.

EA sent over info and pictures of their upcoming DS title, Orcs & Elves - lean in and check out what the fuss is about!

Enter an ancient and magical world where good and evil collide in an epic adventure with Orcs & Elves™ for Nintendo DS™.

The award-winning fantasy RPG mobile game, created by id™ Software and developed by Fountainhead Entertainment comes to the Nintendo DS, with more levels, weapons and fierce foes.

Orcs & Elves offers a breathtaking dungeon-crawling experience for any fantasy RPG gamer, featuring an Award-winning storyline spanning twelve sprawling levels within an ancient Dwarven kingdom.

As a young half-elf, a player will explore the ancient mountain-citadel of Zharrharag, a massive Dwarven fortress riddled with ancient treasure, powerful weapons, and waves of ruthless enemies.

Gamers can use the DS touch screen to solve devious puzzles, overcome deadly traps and unleash magical powers with an arsenal of arcane items like magic potions, enchanted rings, dragon scale armor and an enchanted wand.

Gamers will find and master thirteen mystical weapons including magical swords, deadly crossbows, and a powerful war hammer as they fight through waves of legendary beasts each with their own tactics and powers. Along the way, players will also befriend unique characters such as an ancient dragon to help them fight their way into the deepest reaches of the mountain fortress on a quest to expel the ultimate evil from the mountain’s core.

Labels: EA, Orcs and Elves

CAPCOM® JOINS FORCES WITH CAMELOT TO DEVELOP WE LOVE GOLF!™ FOR THE WII™

Immersive Golfing Experience and Flexible Tee Times Thanks to the Wii Remote™

SAN MATEO, Calif — Sept. 14, 2007 — Capcom ® , a leading worldwide developer and publisher of video games, today announced a partnership with Camelot Software Planning to develop We Love Golf!™ for the Wii™ home video game system. Best known for developing Hot Shots Golf and the Mario Golf series, Camelot has a proven track record of creating entertaining, successful sports video games. This latest title transforms the Wii Remote™ into a virtual set of golf clubs, creating the most immersive golfing experience available off the greens. Capcom plans to release We Love Golf! in North America in 2008.

“Camelot’s pedigree in this genre, coupled with Capcom’s creative expertise, is a virtual hole in one,” said Nique Fajors, vice president, marketing, Capcom Entertainment. “Combining an already great game concept with the exciting innovations possible on the Wii is a winning formula for an amazing experience for gaming and golfing fans.”

We Love Golf! presents a realistic golfing experience with a fresh new spin, incorporating the Wii Remote’s unique motion-sensing functionality. Players will use the controller to choose clubs, line up shots, swing and even add a touch fade or draw with a flick of the wrist. Just as on a real course, gauging wind conditions, correct club selection and careful reading of the greens are all essential for victory. A variety of game modes, multiple characters, and unlockable content will provide endless hours of putting heaven.

Labels: Capcom, nintendo wii, We Love Golf

EA AND NAMCO BANDAI ANNOUNCE A TRIFECTA OF PRE-ORDER TREATS FOR HELLGATE: LONDON

Here’s Your Exclusive Chance to Open the Hellgate Before Halloween

Redwood City, Calif. – September 14, 2007 – Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ: ERTS) and NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc. today announced three special pre-order promotions for the highly anticipated action RPG Hellgate™: London in North America. Gamers who pre-order either the regular or Collector’s Edition of Hellgate: London will receive:

*A key to an exclusive Beta starting next week and ending October 7, 2007.
*One of four exclusive dye-kits1 that will give your hero’s gear a cool color theme right off the bat when Hellgate: London officially opens on Halloween.
*Eligibility to take advantage of the Hellgate: London Founders Offer, giving hardcore players a chance to purchase a lifetime subscription2 to Hellgate’s premium service for $149.99.

“We’re excited to get our most passionate players into the early Beta test, and to reward them with a special look once the game goes live on Halloween,” said Bill Roper, CEO of Flagship Studios. “The Founder’s offer is designed for those die-hard fans that will have had time to really get to know the game during the Beta phase and plan on spending a lot of time with us online.”

From the core team behind the global blockbuster action RPG Diablo®, Hellgate: London represents the next leap in the evolution of the genre, combining the depth and addictive gameplay of traditional RPGs with the visceral action of first-person shooters. Featuring a deep, story-driven campaign with over 40 hours of gameplay, Hellgate: London can be played alone offline or online through the entire campaign experience for free in a safe, client-server environment. For those players who want to extend their Hellgate: London experience, Flagship is offering an optional subscription service which will give players access to huge amounts of content on an ongoing basis in the form of quests, character classes, demons, items, etc.

Hellgate: London has been rated ‘M’ for Mature by the ESRB and has been rated ‘18+’ by PEGI. Visit www.esrb.org or www.pegionline.eu for more ratings information. For more information about the game, log onto http://info.ea.com or the game’s official website at www.hellgatelondon.com.

1 A Dye Kit is an in-game item that lets you color your online character's armor set to a particular theme, determined by the retailer you purchased your pre-order from. Your specific Dye Kit information can be found on your pre-order card that contains the code. This item is linked to your account when you enter your pre-order code. However, it is not available for use in the Beta, but only in the Live (retail) version of the game.

2 "Lifetime Subscription" refers to the lifetime of the online subscription component for Hellgate: London, not the user's lifetime. Lifetime Subscription memberships are limited to the first 125,000 pre-order purchasers of Hellgate: London from participating retailers who upgrade prior to November 30, 2007. Prior to purchasing a Lifetime Subscription, the purchasers of the Hellgate: London must complete their purchase of the Hellgate: London software and create a Hellgate: London online subscription account. The user acknowledges and agrees that: (a) the Hellgate: London online component, including, but not limited to the online subscription component may be cancelled at any time, without any refunds or other compensation to the user; (b) the Lifetime Subscription does not automatically grant access to expansions of Hellgate: London which are sold as individual products, as such products must be purchased separately; (c) the user must accept and abide by the End User License Agreement for Hellgate: London and the Terms of Service, Code of Conduct and Privacy Policy for the Hellgate: London online component, as each are modified from time to time, at all times prior to the purchase of a Lifetime Subscription; and (d) in addition to the foregoing, Ping0, LLC retains the right to cancel a Lifetime Subscription as set forth in the Terms of Service to the Hellgate: London online component.

Labels: EA, Hellgate London, Namco-Bandai

Microsoft today announced that the Xbox 360 exclusive game “Halo 3” has officially become the biggest entertainment launch in history, garnering an estimated $170 million in sales in the United States alone in the first 24 hours. The Xbox 360 title beat previous records set by blockbuster theatrical releases like “Spider-man 3” and novels such as “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows.”

“Halo 3” is the conclusion to the epic trilogy and picks up where “Halo 2” left off, answering questions around the fates of the beloved protagonist Master Chief and his artificial intelligence sidekick Cortana as they struggle to save humankind from destruction at the hands of the alien coalition known as the Covenant. In addition to the rich storyline, “Halo 3” continues the franchise’s grand tradition of delivering innovative online multiplayer experiences via Xbox LIVE, the world’s largest social network on TV.

“Halo 3 has become a pop-culture phenomenon,” said Shane Kim, corporate vice president of Microsoft Game Studios. “Not only is “Halo 3” setting sales records, it’s also redefining entertainment.

Within the first 20 hours alone, we’ve seen more than a million Xbox LIVE members come online to play Halo 3 – that makes September 25 the most active Xbox LIVE gaming day in history.”

Retailers have also expressed their excitement about the launch of “Halo 3.”

Bob McKenzie, Senior Vice President of Merchandising for GameStop Corp commented that, “With consumer demand for Halo 3 and related products, we expect it to be the biggest video game title generator in GameStop's history."

“The initial demand we’ve seen for ‘Halo 3’ has been astounding, and the game is on track to become the number one gaming title of all time. ‘Halo 3’ is a genuine entertainment phenomenon and our customers have responded very enthusiastically to the release,” said Jill Hamburger, vice president of movies and games at Best Buy.

Developed by Bungie Studios, the “Halo” franchise is exclusive to the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system and optimized for the Xbox LIVE® online entertainment network. The more than 7 million Xbox LIVE users will get a continually evolving gaming experience with “Halo 3.” Its online multiplayer and cooperative gameplay for Xbox LIVE Gold users, the much-talked-about Saved Films feature that enables players to capture and save their favorite moments on their hard drives, and Forge, an innovative map editor that enables infinite customization options are just some of the new features to experience.

More than 10,000 retailers hosted Midnight Madness events to celebrate the launch of this third installment in the billion-dollar franchise. In New York, Seattle, Miami and Los Angeles, Microsoft and retail partners hosted marquee launch events that featured contests and appearances by local celebrities and professional athletes who are fanatical about the “Halo” franchise, including Ludacris and Zac Efron and Microsoft Chairman Bill Gates.

More than 1.7 million copies of “Halo 3” were preordered in the United States before a single store opened its doors at midnight, Sept. 25, making this the fasting pre-selling game in history, surpassing the previous record-setting pre-sales of “Halo 2.” Well beyond just a U.S. phenomenon, the launch of “Halo 3” was a worldwide celebration that released in 37 countries and available in 17 languages.

Labels: Halo 3, Microsoft, Xbox 360

BLOOD, SWEAT AND FEAR RUN RAMPANT AS CODEMASTERS
RELEASES CLIVE BARKER'S JERICHO PLAYABLE DEMO

Gamers Get a Taste of Battling Demonic Foes from the Twisted Mind of Clive Barker...with the Jericho Squad's Delgado, Black and Church

Burbank, CA - Thursday, September 27, 2007 - Action, shooter, horror and Clive Barker fans - prepare yourselves to take on the darkest evil from the depths Clive Barker's mind - and then blast its face off with a hail of gunfire and supernatural powers as Codemasters announces the release of the playable demo for Clive Barker's Jericho™. The demo is now available* from Xbox LIVE® Marketplace for the Xbox™ 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft® and the PLAYSTATION®Network for the PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system, with the Games for Windows® demo available from www.jericho-game.com.

Clive Barker's Jericho dispatches players to the Middle-Eastern city of Al-Khali, where the most ancient of evils has resurfaced; causing intense paranormal activity that has caught the eye of the military. Controlling the Jericho squad, an expert strike team skilled in both conventional and paranormal warfare, gamers fight their way through slices of time on a grueling journey as they make their way toward the heart of the evil.

Thrusting into the middle of this unique horror/FPS, the Clive Barker's Jericho demo starts gamers off in the Crusades time slice of Al-Khali's past. A vicious attack has cut the squad in half, leaving players in control of Sgt. Frank Delgado, Lt. Abigail Black and Sgt. Billie Church, and with the other half of the squad presumed lost. As the spirit of Cpt. Devin Ross, the fallen squad leader who's remaining entity is able to possess and jump between surviving members of the team, players will take advantage of Delgado, Black and Church's special weapons and paranormal talents.

Delgado, a pyromancer and heavy weapons expert, can unleash a parasitic flame spirit to incinerate nearby enemies and wields a 7.62 caliber mini-gun. Black possesses astonishing telekinetic powers, which let her guide bullets fired from her customized XM-110 sniper rifle with pinpoint accuracy through multiple targets. Church, a blood scribe, casts powerful wards, enchantments and banishments through the ritual of drawing her own blood, and also comes equipped with a customized Nodachi katana for ruthless melee attacks.

Only by combining the unique paranormal abilities of the Jericho squad will gamers survive this hellish nightmare and inch closer to discovering the truth behind the evil rooted in Al-Khali. Right from the beginning of the Clive Barker's Jericho demo, players face a vicious onslaught from an army of grotesque crusader-era warriors. These twisted and tormented enemies, with armor fused to their rotting flesh and limbs replaced with axes and swords, are powerful, shocking realizations of monsters spawned straight from the mind of Clive Barker.

Developed by Mercury Steam Entertainment, Clive Barker's Jericho is set to unleash its supernatural assault on October 23, 2007 for the PLAYSTATION 3 system, the Xbox 360 and Games for Windows, and is rated "M" (Mature 17+ - Blood and Gore, Intense Violence, Sexual Themes, and Strong Language) by the ESRB.

For the latest on Clive Barker's Jericho, including the PC demo, be sure to visit www.jericho-game.com. Visitors can also enter the community's 'Game with Pain' competition, where the grand prize for building a winning Clive Barker's Jericho fansite is the ultimate horror gaming set up, which includes a monster HDTV and surround sound system.

* - NOTE: The European Clive Barker's Jericho PLAYSTATION 3 system demo will launch on October 4, 2007.

Labels: Clive Barker's Jericho, codemasters

Labels: EA Sports, NHL 08

NIS America sent over their most recent trailer and boxart for their upcoming, sure to be a massive hit, PSP title, Disgaea Afternoon of Darkness. Check out both below!

Labels: Disgaea Afternoon of Darkness, NIS America, PSP

Telltale and GameTap reveal first details of Sam & Max Season Two

"Ice Station Santa" will kick off new season of Sam & Max games November 8 on GameTap and worldwide November 9 from Telltale

SAN RAFAEL, CA, September 26, 2007 – The innovative Sam & Max series continues to break new ground this fall with an unprecedented second season of episodic games, starting with the most ancient and powerful opponent the duo have ever faced: Santa Claus!

Interactive entertainment pioneer Telltale Inc. and GameTap, the first-of-its-kind broadband entertainment network from Turner Broadcasting System, Inc., revealed today that the first episode of Sam & Max Season Two, "Ice Station Santa," will debut on November 8, 2007 for GameTap subscribers at http://www.gametap.com/. The following day, on November 9, the premiere episode will be released worldwide from Telltale's website http://www.telltalegames.com/.

"The Telltale crew has been living with these characters for quite a while now and it shows in the work," says Sam & Max creator Steve Purcell. "First seasons are always the proving ground, so it's great that they get the chance to take Sam & Max through a new season of ever more bizarre and hilarious episodes."

"Ice Station Santa" puts a whole new spin on the season of giving, peace, and joy. With Christmas presents on the attack and carols of gunshots drowning out the bells, Sam & Max must storm the North Pole to bring down a less-than-jolly foe. Can they make sense of this Christmas conundrum in time to save the world's children from a holiday tainted by tears, turmoil, and Torture-Me-Elmer?

"Sam & Max was our first GameTap Original title and it proved that episodic gaming can be truly successful," said Ricardo Sanchez, GameTap's VP of Content and Creative Director. "We're excited to be working with Telltale again to bring another great season of Sam & Max to our subscribers."

Each new Sam & Max episode will launch on GameTap on the second Thursday of the month, followed one day later by its worldwide premiere on www.telltalegames.com. After "Ice Station Santa" in November, Episode 2 is scheduled for January 10 for GameTap subscribers and January 11 worldwide. Monthly releases will continue up through the season finale in April, for a total of five games in Season Two.

"Season One was a groundbreaking accomplishment, but it's only the beginning," says Telltale's CEO Dan Connors. "For Season Two, we have taken all the best elements of the first season and improved on them even more. Telltale is cranking the whole episodic experience up another notch and you can expect a very enjoyable six months."

As with Sam & Max Season One, customers can purchase the full Season Two set or individual episodes from Telltale, or play the games as part of a subscription to GameTap. Full pricing information, along with brand new "Ice Station Santa" screenshots, video and additional Season Two details, can be found at www.telltalegames.com/samandmaxseasontwo and www.gametap.com/samandmax.

Labels: Gametap, Sam and Max Season 2, Telltale Games

EA GOES FULL-THROTTLE WITH

NEED FOR SPEED PROSTREET SOUNDTRACK

New Installment of Top-Selling Race Game Fueled By Explosive International Styles Plus Original Score By Junkie XL

REDWOOD CITY, Calif. – September 20, 2007 – Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ: ERTS) announced today the complete soundtrack for Need for Speed™ ProStreet, which is set for North American release November 14, 2007 on the Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system, PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system and Wii™ as well as the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, Nintendo DS™, PC and mobile. The soundtrack features over 35 songs from artists representing a volatile range of styles, along with an original score by internationally renowned DJ/Producer/Musician Junkie XL that captures the skill, risk and velocity of pro street racing culture.

“The Need for Speed franchise has set the worldwide standard for not only racing games, but their soundtracks as well,” said Steve Schnur, Worldwide Executive of Music and Music Marketing at EA. “Now for the first time, Need for Speed ProStreet takes street racing from the underground to pro level with a music mix to match. We've brought together an unprecedented collection of artists that represents an international convergence of emerging Rock, aggressive Electro, UK Grime and much more, including a truly dangerous original score by our Artwerk artist Junkie XL. In a still-outlaw culture that demands complete authenticity, we have blended the ultimate audio racing fuel.”

In addition to the explosive lead track “More” from Junkie XL, the Need for Speed ProStreet soundtrack also features premiere songs from Artwerk artists Datarock and Airbourne. Additional highlights include tracks from the most recent albums by Avenged Sevenfold, the Yeah, Yeah, Yeahs, TV on the Radio, and UNKLE, featuring Josh Homme from Queens of the Stone Age. The new rave scene is represented by Mercury Prize winners Klaxons, electronica by Peaches and MSTRKRFT, dance punk by Bloc Party, and dubstep by UK sensations Wiley.

The complete soundtrack includes the songs listed below. To hear samplings of each song please visit www.ea.com/eatrax/


ARTIST
SONG

Airbourne
Blackjack

Avenged Sevenfold
Almost Easy

Bloc Party
Prayer (Does It Offend You, Yeah? Remix)

Chromeo
Fancy Footwork (Guns ‘N Bombs Remix)

Clutch
Power Player

CSS
Odio Odio Odio Sorry C

Datarock
I Used To Dance With My Daddy (Karma Harvest Mix)

Digitalism
Pogo

Dude 'N Nem
Watch My Feet

DÚNÉ
A Blast Beat

Foreign Islands
We Know You Know It

Junkie XL feat. Lauren Rocket
More (Junk O Flamenco Remix)

Junkie XL feat. Lauren Rocket
More (Junk O Rock Remix)

Junkie XL feat. Lauren Rocket
More (Junk O Punk Remix)

Junkie XL feat. Lauren Rocket
More

Klaxons
Atlantis To Interzone

MSTRKRFT
Neon Knights

Neon Plastix
On Fire

Peaches
Boys Wanna Be Her (Tommie Sunshine’s Brooklyn Fire Retouch)

Plan B
More Is Enough feat. Epic Man

Plan B
No Good (Chase & Status and Benni G Remix)

Smallwhitelight
Spite

The Faint
Dropkick The Punks

The Horrors
Draw Japan

The Rapture
The Sound

The Toxic Avenger
Escape (Bloody Beetroots Remix)

TV On The Radio
Wolf Like Me

UNKLE
Restless feat. Josh Homme

We Are Wolves
Fight And Kiss

Wiley
Bow E3

Yeah Yeah Yeahs
Kiss Kiss

Year Long Disaster
Leda Atomica

Yelle
A Cause Des Garcons (Riot In Belgium Remix)


The soundtrack completes a racing experience like no other. In Need for Speed ProStreet, gamers can design and build a car to compete in iconic locations from around the globe and battle in four distinct racing styles- grip, drag, drift and the all-new speed challenge. The atmosphere is electric - complete with energetic crowds, photo-realistic vehicles and billowing smoke - all designed to embody the pressure and intensity of the gladiatorial challenge known as Show Down.

Need for Speed ProStreet also continues the tradition of featuring the most desirable street racing cars. This November, Need for Speed ProStreet is the first full packaged videogame where gamers can test drive the Nissan GTR before its launch in Spring of 2008.

Need for Speed ProStreet is scheduled to ship in Europe on November 16 for the Xbox 360, PLAYSTATION®3 and Wii™ as well as the PlayStation®2, Nintendo DS™, PC and mobile.

Labels: EA, Need For Speed ProStreet

I received a video spotlight in my email for the upcoming Xbox 360 title, Mass Effect, showing off some of their characters. Here is how the video was described to me:

"As we’re nearing the Nov. 20 launch date for “Mass Effect,” we’d like to offer you a glimpse into the personalities of several key characters that you can enjoy until you can get your hands on the game. This [new video profiles] key characters that players will encounter in “Mass Effect,” such as the powerful Krogan battle master Urdnot Wrex, Alliance military Captain David Anderson, the Quarian nomad Tali’zorah Nar Ray Ya and the mysterious Turian Spectre Nihlus. All footage in the video is taken directly from the game, and you’ll get to see a sampling of scenes for each character that showcase their personality."

Be sure to check it out and hype yourself up even more for what is sure to be a can't miss title!

Labels: Mass Effect, Xbox 360

Pokemon Trades Span the Globe

Pokemon Trading Heats Up, Spreads Worldwide with Global Trade Station


REDMOND, Wash., Sept. 17 /PRNewswire/ -- They invaded. They evolved. And
now they'll be traded -- across oceans, and without regard for national
borders or native tongue.

Nintendo today announces the Pokemon(R) GTS (Global Trade Station) Web
site goes online worldwide Sept. 15 and will be a great resource for Pokemon
fans interested in learning more about trading their favorite characters.

The Global Trade Station already allows the trade of millions of Pokemon
between trainers worldwide. Pokemon(R) Diamond and Pokemon(R) Pearl are the
fastest-selling games in the history of the series, with worldwide sales in
excess of 10 million games. Players use their Nintendo DS(TM) portable game
systems to link wirelessly to Nintendo(R) Wi-Fi Connection, allowing them to
scan which Pokemon are available from different nations and offer to trade
with other players.

The new Pokemon Global Trade Station Web site, http://www.pokemon-gts.net/,
can be reached via any Internet-connected computer. The site will let users
see which Pokemon are the most popular to trade, provide statistics about the
number of trades completed and allow them to bookmark their favorite Pokemon.
The site will operate in seven different languages and inform users about the
nation they're "visiting" electronically. Visitors can even listen to audio
files to learn how to say "hello" and "thank you" in select countries
languages.

"Pokemon is now truly global in nature," says George Harrison, Nintendo of
America's senior vice president of marketing and corporate communications. "A
Pokemon Trainer from Chicago can be traveling in Sydney and trade one of their
Pokemon with another owner in Helsinki."

Pokemon USA, Inc., a subsidiary of The Pokemon Company in Japan, manages
the property outside of Asia which includes licensing, marketing, the Pokemon
Trading Card Game, an animated TV series, home entertainment, the official
Pokemon Web site and an online retail center http://www.pokemoncenter.com/.
Pokemon was launched in Japan in 1996 for play on Nintendo's Game Boy(R) and
has since evolved into a global cultural phenomenon. Pokemon was introduced in
North America in September 1998 and today is one of the most popular toy and
entertainment properties in the world. For more information, visit
http://www.pokemon.com/.

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

Labels: Nintendo, Pokemon

EA SPORTS ANNOUNCES COVER ATHLETE ELECTION

FOR NFL TOUR

Fans Vote Online for Jason Taylor, Dwight Freeney and

Shawne Merriman

It’s up to you! Vote now at

www.votenfltour.com

REDWOOD CITY, Calif., September 18, 2007 – Electronic Arts Inc., (NASDAQ: ERTS) today announced that the cover athlete for NFL Tour, a new NFL licensed arcade football video game, will be determined through an open online voting process. Voters will be able to choose between the Miami Dolphins’ defensive end Jason Taylor, the Indianapolis Colts’ defensive end Dwight Freeney, and the San Diego Chargers’ linebacker Shawne Merriman. At the completion of the voting process, the NFL player who receives the most votes will be announced as the official cover athlete for NFL Tour. The cover athlete election officially begins today, for more information, please visit www.voteNFLtour.com.

Each of the NFL Tour cover athlete elects have dominated the gridiron – Taylor, Freeney and Merriman are currently three of the top defensive players in the NFL. Jason Taylor, the 2006 NFL defensive player of the year, has established himself as one of the best defensive ends of all time with 106 career sacks. The defensive heart and soul of the 2006 Superbowl Champion Indianapolis Colts, three-time Pro-Bowler Dwight Freeney is the first Colts player to lead the NFL in sacks during an NFL season. Shawne Merriman is quickly establishing himself as one of the best linebackers in the NFL, racking up 27 sacks in his first two years in the league.

NFL Tour is a new NFL licensed video game that offers players a fun and engaging experience with the NFL and its talented players. Gamers will be able to embark on a fictional NFL road show. With real NFL players as teammates, players will travel across the country to play against each of the NFL teams in newly designed stadiums. As players defeat each of the NFL squads, they come one step closer to winning a NFL contract.

EA SPORTS™ is the leading interactive sports software brand in the world, with top-selling titles and franchises including Madden NFL Football, FIFA Soccer, NHL® hockey, NBA LIVE basketball, NCAA® Football, Tiger Woods PGA TOUR® and NASCAR® racing.

Labels: EA Sports, NFL Tour

Also at participating chains, a limited number of customers will receive the rare Homerball! Based on Homer’s special in game powers, Homerball is Homer’s dream come true; turning into a giant, rolling ball that can eat and eat and eat without ever getting full. As an added bonus, Homerball can smash walls, burst over ramps, and knock back enemies. Behold the ball!

• Four Different Limited Edition The Simpsons Game Parody Posters
• Limited Homerball Figure

Parody Posters Available from: GameStop, Wal-Mart, Target and Best Buy

Homerball Available from Participating Retailers While Supplies Last

Beginning September 19th, 2007!

Labels: EA, The Simpsons Game

EA Ships MySims to Retail Shelves

Created Especially for the Wii and Nintendo DS Platforms, MySims Allows Players to Build a Town, Grow a Community and Discover a World of their Own

REDWOOD CITY, Calif. — September 18, 2007 — Electronic Arts Inc., (NASDAQ: ERTS) today announced that MySims™, the first game in a revolutionary new product line from the developers of the blockbuster franchise, The Sims™, has shipped to retails shelves across North America. Designed especially for the Wii™ and Nintendo DS™ platforms, MySims allows players to build a town, grow a community and discover a world of their own!

“MySims gives players the ability to unleash their creativity in every aspect of the game –from characters with wacky hairstyles and cool new clothing to the entire town including houses and everything within them,” said Studio Head of The Sims Label, Rod Humble. “MySims is a wonderful little world that people can enter, enjoy, and explore at their own pace changing it to their own desires.”

MySims introduces a charming cast of whimsical characters while delivering the creativity, customization and classic open-ended gameplay that has enchanted The Sims players worldwide. Players begin by creating their own toy-like MySims character that reflects their personal style and attitudes. From bow-ties and baseball caps to sunglasses and braces, the options are endless and the style is unlike any The Sims game to date. By unlocking the latest trends, hairstyles and accessories, players explore the game’s incredible depth of customization and expression… and the characters are just the beginning!

After creating a unique MySims character, players will help turn a rundown town into a thriving one by building and customizing objects with the easy and fun-to-use Wii and Nintendo DS controls. From one-of-a-kind homes and thriving businesses to amusing furniture and more, fans can personalize their creations with customizable skins, patterns, and unique themes. Each completed task will help the town thrive, so what each player makes… makes all the difference!

As fans explore and build up their town, they’ll begin to attract new characters, like DJ Candy Supergroove—the town’s hippest disc jockey who likes to spin music and deck out her home in the coolest new fashions. Or cook up a slice with the famous Italian chef – Gino Delicioso – the best pizza maker in town! Each of the 60 unique characters bring knowledge and a fresh new experience to the town, and, it’s up to each player who moves in and who moves out, proving there’s never a dull moment in the MySims community!

MySims is rated “E” for Everyone by the ESRB with descriptors for Comic Mischief, Mild Cartoon Violence, and Gambling and will ship the Wii and Nintendo DS versions in North America on September 18th and in Europe on September 14th . The Wii version ships in Japan on September 27th, Nintendo DS version in Winter 2007. For more information on MySims, or to check out the brand-new Sushi Chef Minigame, please visit: http://mysims.ea.com/.

Labels: EA, MySims, Nintendo DS, nintendo wii

EA CELEBRATES 10 YEARS OF ULTIMA ONLINE

A Decade of Groundbreaking MMO Gaming Celebrated with In-Game Activities, Special Items and “Return to Britannia” Campaign for Past Players

Redwood City, CA, September 25, 2007 – Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ: ERTS), the world’s leading interactive entertainment company, today celebrated the 10th anniversary of the classic massively-multiplayer online game (MMO), Ultima Online™. Launched on September 25, 1997, Ultima Online broke new ground in the multiplayer game space and ushered in the modern MMO era. Anniversary celebrations include special in-game activities and rewards, plus a new amnesty program that invites former players back to experience the major game update, Ultima Online Kingdom Reborn, for free.

“Ultima Online has thrived for 10 years and achieved the status of an MMO classic, thanks in large part to the devoted player community,” said Mark Jacobs, VP and general manager, EA Mythic. “We are very excited to celebrate this special anniversary with players.”

In celebration of the 10th anniversary, EA is kicking off the “Return to Brittania” campaign, an amnesty program that welcomes former players to discover the gameplay and graphics upgrades implemented in Kingdom Reborn. Past subscribers in good standing will be able to play for free through October 9, 2007 by visiting www.uo.com/kingdomreborn/gamefiles, downloading Ultima Online Kingdom Reborn and logging in using their former account name and password.

During the in-game 10th anniversary celebration, players will be able to take part in a monster hunt with special prizes including an ankh pendant necklace, map of Brittania, Ultima Online commemorative sculpture and virtue armor set. Additionally, all players will receive 10 décor tokens and a wand of fireworks in their characters’ inventory.

For more information on the 10th anniversary celebration, please visit www.uoherald.com/tenth.

Labels: EA, Ultima Online

SEPTEMBER 26, 2007 DECLARED GUITAR HERO DAY IN NEW YORK CITY

City Official to Read Proclamation, Eager Fans Set To Storm the Streets of New York, Guitar Hero® III: Legends of Rock To Be Debuted at Digital Life

Santa Monica, CA - September 26, 2007 -- Activision, Inc. (Nasdaq: ATVI), publisher of the wildly popular Guitar Hero® franchise and the City of New York are proud to proclaim September 26, 2007 "Guitar Hero® Day" in New York City. Fans are ready to rock the streets of Manhattan as thousands are expected to gather in celebration of the day, with guitar controllers in hand. This proclamation is one of many Guitar Hero events taking place in New York City this week, heading into the launch of the highly anticipated Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock.

The game was also included in Ziff Davis' Hot Five Press Event on Tuesday, September 25 at Splashlight Studios. The press only event featured the five hottest products of the coming year. For the first time, U.S. fans have the opportunity to play Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock at the DigitalLife Conference taking place at Javits Center, September 27-30.

Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock will include explosive new content and features including a multiplayer action-inspired battle mode, grueling boss battles, a host of exclusive unlockable content and visually stunning rock venues. Expanded online multiplayer game modes will also allow axe-shredders worldwide to compete head-to-head for true legendary rock status. For the first time ever, Guitar Hero fans will also be able to thrash and burn with new wireless guitar controllers available for each platform. The game will feature a star-studded soundtrack including master tracks by such legendary artists as Guns N' Roses, The Rolling Stones, Beastie Boys, Red Hot Chili Peppers and Pearl Jam as well as original songs by guitar icons Slash and Tom Morello. The sequel also will offer a vast array of downloadable content including songs from some of the most popular European bands.

Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock, published by RedOctane® and developed by Neversoft, is rated 'T' for Teen by the ESRB and will be available October 28, 2007. For more information about the Guitar Hero franchise, please visit the dedicated community site: www.guitarhero.com.

Labels: Activision, Guitar Hero III Legends of Rock, RedOctane

EA SPORTS NCAA FOOTBALL 08 AND COKE ZERO PAVE THE WAY TO THE ROSE BOWL® WITH THE EA SPORTS NCAA FOOTBALL CHALLENGE

EA brings the spirit of true competition to a college campus near you

REDWOOD CITY, Calif. – September 19, 2007 – Electronic Arts Inc., (NASDAQ: ERTS) today announced the start of the EA SPORTS™ NCAA® Football Challenge presented by Coke Zero. This ultimate college tournament featuring NCAA® Football 08 kicks off this Thursday, September 20th at USC and will hit major college campuses around the country in the next few months.

The EA SPORTS NCAA Football Challenge will offer college football fans the chance to compete with the very best players from around the country, to battle for bragging rights and prizes. EA will visit 12 college campuses including Ohio State, University of Tennessee and Virginia Tech for two days of raw competition.

“The excitement and emotion of NCAA Football is what we’re trying to capture when we bring this Challenge to local college campuses,” said Brian Movalson, EA SPORTS Marketing Director. “Additionally, we’re creating the opportunity for gamers across the country to compete and find out who’s the best at NCAA Football 08, and win a fantastic trip to the Granddaddy of All Bowl Games®, the Rose Bowl in Pasadena.”

The college campus tournaments will determine who qualifies for the finals at the Rose Bowl for a chance to win the $10,000 Grand Prize. The first day will be Campus Tournaments where competition will only be open to students. Game day events will be open to students and fans, and will include several different competitions including:

· Series of three mini competitions throughout the day

· Longest Field Goal competition

· Option Dash (two minute drill) competition

· Mini eight-man tournament competition

“EA has brought excitement and entertainment to the world of sports for years and we’re thrilled to have our site be the host for the EA SPORTS NCAA Football Challenge presented by Coke Zero,” said Mitch Dorger, Chief Executive Officer of the Pasadena Tournament of Roses®. “EA SPORTS has been a great licensee of ours and we’re excited to extend our relationship in a new way.”

The 2007 EA SPORTS NCAA Football Challenge presented by Coke Zero will test the skills of thousands of gamers on NCAA Football 08, on the Xbox 360™ console. To qualify for the 2007 EA SPORTS NCAA Football Challenge, players can pre-register online at www.ncaafootballchallenge.com, the official EA SPORTS NCAA Football Challenge website, or via onsite registration one hour before event start time. The Campus Tournament contestant positions will be determined on a first-come, first-serve basis. Registration will be limited to active students at each participating school. Game Day events will be held on a separate day, and open to the general public on a first come first serve basis.

Consistent with all other challenges in the EA SPORTS Challenge Series, the EA SPORTS NCAA Football Challenge also will have an online component where competitors play against other online players. Winners from the registered online Tournament will then compete against winners of the regional Tournaments for a trip to the Rose Bowl finals and a chance to compete along with the ‘College Campus’ Tournament winners for the $10,000 Grand Prize. Please visit www.ncaafootballchallenge.com for details to enter and to view the published Tournament dates, schedules and Official Rules for all three sets of tournament - NCAA Challenge Online; NCAA Challenge Regional Tournaments and NCAA Challenge Gameday Events.

Labels: EA Sports, NCAA Football 08

ARRR MATEYS!

PIRATES OF THE BURNING SEA™ RETAIL PRE-ORDER

TO START OCTOBER 23

Pirates of the Burning Sea, the MMORPG featuring high seas action and adventure in a bold world of pirates and plunder, is scheduled to be available for pre-order starting Tuesday, October 23rd at participating retail locations.

PRE ORDER FEATURES:

Players who pre-order the game will receive the following:

*An invitation to the “Pre-Boarding Party” allowing them access to the live game up to 15 days prior to launch, and the ability to keep their characters, skills and equipment after launch with purchase of game and paid subscription (characters will have a level cap of 20 during the pre-boarding party)
*Captain’s Best Friend – a blue and yellow parrot
*Mighty Blades - Swedish Rapier, Old World Steel or Musketeer’s Matching Blades (depending upon which fighting style is selected)
*Original Game Soundtrack CD – 60 minutes of pirate themed music (comes in pre-order box)

Pirates of the Burning Sea is scheduled to be available for preorder in North America on Tuesday, October 23, 2007. A European pre-order date has not been set at this time.

For more pre-order information on Pirates of the Burning Sea log onto http://www.piratesoftheburningsea.com/

ABOUT PIRATES OF THE BURNING SEA:

Pirates of the Burning Sea is an MMORPG featuring high seas action and adventure in a bold world of pirates and plunder. Set against the backdrop of the New World of the 18th Century, players can choose one of three nations – England, France or Spain – or choose the role of a Pirate and battle it out for glory and power.

Labels: PC, Pirates of the Burning Sea, SOE

DANCEDANCEREVOLUTION SUPERNOVA™2 SHAKES ITS GROOVE THANG INTO RETAIL

New Gameplay Modes Join Enhanced Online and EyeToy ™ Camera Support to Deliver the Most Complete DanceDanceRevolution® Game Ever Now Available for the PlayStation®2 Computer Entertainment System in Stores Nationwide

El Segundo, Calif. - September 25, 2007 - Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc., today announced DanceDanceRevolution SuperNOVA2 (DDR SuperNOVA2) for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system has shipped to retail outlets nationwide. This highly anticipated sequel expands upon the most popular DanceDanceRevolution game series with exciting gameplay, an all-new hit soundtrack, and enhanced online and multiplayer features.

"Responding to the overwhelming success of DanceDanceRevolution SuperNOVA, Konami strives to provide a sequel that not only builds upon the strengths of the first title but also provides compelling new content," said Anthony Crouts, Vice President of Marketing for Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc. "DanceDanceRevolution SuperNOVA2 promises to become a cornerstone by providing a rich gaming experience for new players and old-school fans, whether they play alone, with friends in multiplayer mode, or online."

DanceDanceRevolution SuperNOVA2 capitalizes on the most popular elements of the franchise while adding new game modes and enhanced online capabilities to provide the most compelling DanceDanceRevolution experience ever. The brand new Hyper Master Mode joins forces with original favorites such as Tutorial, Battle, Nonstop and Challenge to achieve mass appeal. Up to 4-player multiplayer gameplay is supported online with the added bonus of EyeToy™ USB Camera (for the PlayStation®2) support so that players can critique their moves on TV.

DanceDanceRevolution SuperNOVA2 comes complete with a soundtrack packed with super star artists and hits that will get players moving and stepping to the DanceDanceRevolution beat! Hits include titles from artists such as Justin Timberlake, Britney Spears, Gwen Stefani and Ashley Tisdale.

DanceDanceRevolution SuperNOVA2 continues the legacy of the music genre's most popular franchise, and is available for SRP of $39.99 for the standalone video game and $69.99 for the video game and dance mat bundle. To learn more about DanceDanceRevolution SuperNOVA2 please visit www.konami.com.

Labels: Dance Dance Revolution SuperNOVA2, Konami, Playstation 2

DANCE DANCE REVOLUTION HOTTEST PARTY STEPS INTO STORES

First DanceDanceRevolution® for the Wii™ Packs a Punch With the Wii Remote™, New Game Modes, and a Rocking Soundtrack

EL SEGUNDO, Calif. - September 25, 2007 - Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc. today announced it has shipped DanceDanceRevolution Hottest Party, developed exclusively for the Wii™ home video game system from Nintendo. Featuring an all-new soundtrack of hits from the last four decades and up to four-player multiplayer action that takes full advantage of the interactive Wii Remote™, DanceDanceRevolution® Hottest Party is foot-moving, arm-swinging fun and now available in retail outlets nationwide.

"Bringing the critically acclaimed DanceDanceRevolution to the Wii™ was a natural move forward for the franchise," said, Anthony Crouts, Vice President of Marketing for Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc. "The interactive capabilities of the Wii™ platform make it a perfect fit for DanceDanceRevloution, and DanceDanceRevolution Hottest Party promises to be the most intense and active dance party yet."

Utilizing the unique capabilities of the Wii™ system, DanceDanceRevolution Hottest Party incorporates the motion-sensing Wii Remote™ and Nunchuk™ into the traditional mat-based gameplay to prompt players to move their arms while they dance, not just their feet. Fan favorites such as Free Play and Workout Mode return with intense vigor, while all-new modes provide a challenge to even the most seasoned veterans. The all-new Friendly Synch multiplayer mode requires each player to step on the correct arrow or respond to the correct Wii Remote™ movement in unison, encouraging cooperative gameplay, while an updated Battle Mode heats up the competition to keep players on their toes in the ultimate DanceDanceRevolution dance-off!

Boasting a stellar soundtrack that includes smash-hits from the 1970s to the present, DanceDanceRevolution Hottest Party offers a wide variety of musical styles that appeal to everyone, including popular titles such as: Summertime, Disco Inferno, You Spin Me Round (Like a Record) and 99 Red Balloons.

Dance Dance Revolution Hottest Party is available for an SRP of $49.99. For more information, please visit www.konami.com.

Labels: Dance Dance Revolution Hottest Party, Konami, nintendo wii

Labels: Bomberland Land Touch 2, Bomberman Land, Hudson, Konami, Nintendo DS, nintendo wii, PSP

THE SEX PISTOLS
RE-RECORD 'ANARCHY IN THE U.K.'
FOR GUITAR HERO™ III: LEGENDS OF ROCK

Famous for Kick Starting a Musical and Cultural Revolution, Original Members of
The Sex Pistols Enter the Studio for the First Time in 30 Years

SUNNYVALE, CA - September 25, 2007 - Activision, Inc. (Nasdaq: ATVI) announced today that Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees The Sex Pistols, who famously turned down the award, recently returned to the studio to re-record "Anarchy in the U.K.," which will be included in Guitar Hero™ III: Legends of Rock as a master track. Now, fans can perform their own live version of the punk anthem in the next installment of the #1 best-selling music and rhythm video game franchise.

The Sex Pistols were an obvious choice for Guitar Hero, having established themselves as the definitive punk band of the 1970s. Unable to locate the original multi-tracks for inclusion in the game, Activision invited the band back into the studio to re-record a couple of songs including "Anarchy in the U.K." Original members John Lydon on vocals, guitarist Steve Jones and drummer Paul Cook re-teamed with producer Chris Thomas, utilizing the original analog sound desk (circa 1969) that was built for George Martin at Air Studios, London, England in order to maintain the classic sound.

Thirty years ago this fall, the song was first included on The Sex Pistols' only studio album, "Never Mind the Bollocks, Here's the Sex Pistols" which will be re-issued on vinyl on October 29, 2007, in its exact original format, including poster and Submission 7". The single 'Anarchy In The UK' will also be re-issued on vinyl on October 1, along with three other classic singles throughout October. Celebrating this milestone, Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock will be sponsoring the historic Sex Pistols show at The Brixton Academy in London taking place on November 8, 2007.

John Lydon stated that "Re-recording them [the songs]--what a stress you put on us but we rose to the occasion I think...admirably!" Adding that, "a bit of anarchy in a video game is alright by me."

"It was great for Guitar Hero to, in a way, get us back in the studio. I wasn't sure how it was going to turn out but it actually turned out great and I think everyone held their own," said Steve Jones. "I like it [Guitar Hero] because my friends' kids like it. And I like what kids like."

"Guitar Hero fans have been requesting more punk rock in the game since its first iteration," said Tim Riley, Activision worldwide executive of music. "We are honored that The Sex Pistols went into the studio after 30 years, so that we could have a song from the most renowned punk band of all time in the game."

"We are proud to have joined forces with such a legendary and influential band as The Sex Pistols for Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock," said Kai Huang, president and co-founder of RedOctane. "We are very excited to partner with them on their 30th Anniversary and expose them to an entirely new generation of fans through the game."

Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock will include explosive new content and features including a multiplayer action-inspired battle mode, grueling boss battles, a host of exclusive unlockable content and visually stunning rock venues. Expanded online multiplayer game modes will also allow axe-shredders worldwide to compete head-to-head for true legendary rock status. For the first time ever, Guitar Hero fans will also be able to thrash and burn with new wireless guitar controllers available for each platform. The game will feature a star-studded soundtrack including master tracks by such legendary artists as Guns N' Roses, The Rolling Stones, Beastie Boys, Red Hot Chili Peppers and Pearl Jam as well as original songs by guitar icons Slash and Tom Morello. The sequel also will offer a vast array of downloadable content including songs from some of the most popular European bands.

Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock, published by RedOctane® and developed by Neversoft, is rated 'T' for Teen by the ESRB and will be available October 28, 2007. For more information about the Guitar Hero franchise, please visit the dedicated community site: www.guitarhero.com.

Labels: Activision, Guitar Hero III Legends of Rock, RedOctane

CODEMASTERS' RACE DRIVER: CREATE & RACE ROCKETS OFF THE RACING GRID AND INTO STORES TODAY

Burbank, CA - Tuesday, September 25, 2007 - Codemasters today announced that the most powerful official racing cars ever are now available on the Nintendo DS™ as Race Driver™: Create & Race™ ships to retail outlets nationwide. The handheld evolution of the popular Race Driver series, Race Driver: Create & Race is available for a suggested retail price of $29.99 and is rated "E" (Everyone) by the ESRB.

Built from the ground up and releasing exclusively on the Nintendo DS, Race Driver: Create & Race lets players control more than 20 of the fastest racing cars on the planet. Players will be able to race these speed demons on 30 of the world's most exciting official race circuits, from Silverstone in the UK to Bathurst in Australia.

The adrenaline doesn't stop there, however, as Race Driver: Create & Race's unique and intuitive track designer gives gamers the opportunity to stretch their creative legs and design their very own race tracks using the Nintendo DS stylus. The track editor allows players select and place track elements, such as hairpin corners, long straights, chicanes and even scenery, to their liking to design unique circuits. Once all the pieces are placed, players can take to their track and experience exactly how it feels in aggressive multiple car races.

Making use of the Nintendo® Wi-Fi Connection capabilities, gamers can challenge friends to races on the game's official tracks, as well as host games on their personally created circuits. Race Driver: Create & Race also enables up to four players to go head-to-head, game sharing from only one game card. Further championships and cars can be unlocked from the World Tour Mode and then raced in real-time online and ad hoc multiplayer modes.

For more information on Race Driver: Create & Race and to see the latest videos, be sure to head over to the official game website located at www.codemasters.com/createandrace.

Labels: codemasters, Nintendo DS, Race Driver Create and Race

Czech industry veterans announce Prague-studio, debuts with off-road racer MOTORM4X

Prague, Czech Republic (September 20th, 2007) A number of Czech-based game development veterans today announced the existence of The Easy Company s.r.o., a Prague-based studio committed to creating ground-breaking technology and games for PC and consoles. The core development team at The Easy Company previously held lead-positions at Illusion Softworks where they made significant contributions to a number of record-breaking hit titles including Hidden & Dangerous 1 and 2 and MAFIA.

The Easy Company have been working behind closed doors on its debut title for the past 14 months, an all-terrain off-road racer entitled MOTORM4X for the PC. MOTORM4X is a non-formulaic racing-title that lets players drive and explore large outdoor terrains in a variety of SUV and off-road vehicles featuring simulated GPS and 4WD functions including player-controlled axle-locking, 4 wheel drive and GPS pathfinding.

Said Martin Babarik, Producer at The Easy Company “We’ve assembled one of the most experienced teams in the region compromised of local industry veterans with a proven track record of delivering triple-A titles for both PC and consoles. This experience will allow us to bring those same high production values to lighter and more focused games.”

The Easy Company is financially backed by ARCA Capital Bohemia, a private investment company specializing in providing venture capital to expanding companies in Central and Eastern Europe.

Labels: Easy Company, MOTORM4X, PC

Lighthouse Interactive Acquires the North American Publishing Rights to Ship Simulator 2008

Toronto, Canada -- Sep 20, 2007 -- Leading publisher Lighthouse Interactive and developer VSTEP today announced that they have extended their publishing deal to include the North American rights to Ship Simulator 2008; the acclaimed naval simulation game for Windows®. The game will be released in Canada and the U.S. in Q1 2008. VSTEP will maintain the rights for online distribution.

Ship Simulator 2008 was released by Lighthouse in most European territories this year. The North American retail release will include all the free add-ons, including the upcoming multiplayer mode. Ship Simulator 2008 is the follow-up to the surprise simulation hit Ship Simulator released last year. Not only is the game Windows® Vista(tm) compatible, but it includes brand new harbors like San Francisco, new vessels including jet-skis and hovercrafts, and also advanced weather conditions, waves, visible damage, enhanced ship bridges, multiplayer and open sea missions. Ship Simulator 2008 will amaze players with its progress and will rock their simulated world!

"Ship Simulator and Ship Simulator 2008 have both received accolades from simulation fans, retailers and the press worldwide," said Steve Wall, VP of Lighthouse Interactive. "We are proud to be bringing this international hit to the North American market."

VSTEP's Technical Director, Pjotr van Schothorst added, "The North American version of the game will be packed with features including: 50 different single player and multiplayer missions, a Mission Editor, and the ability to track player profiles establishing their ranks in different ship classes."

SUMMARY:
Ship Simulator 2008 is a revolutionary simulation game that puts players at the helm of some of the most varied and detailed ships to be found at sea. Players will need to perform a multitude of tasks, all set within a stunning 3D environment. They will take control of a wide array of ship types - from massive cargo ships and ferries, to speedboats, yachts, water taxis and even the mighty Titanic. The waters you sail are as varied as the ships, with newly added harbors such as Southampton, Marseille and San Francisco. Ship Simulator 2008 recreates real world locations from around the world as well as the challenges of commanding a vessel on the open sea.

FEATURES:
*Dynamic ocean waves with realistic ship motions
*Long distance travels with open sea voyages between ports
*Advanced damage system showing holes in the ships after severe collisions with other ships and even icebergs
*50 new challenging missions for both single player and multiplayer modes
*Extensive day, night and weather systems
*8 new ships, an oil rig and 3 new locations: San Francisco, Southampton and Marseille
*Walkthrough functionality and interactive bridge controls on all ships
*Controllable container crane
*Advanced vector graphic sea chart with full-screen display option, transparency setting and high level-of-detail on text and depth readings
*Free-roam mode where players can choose a ship, an environment, weather conditions, time of day, and time parameters
*Advanced physics simulation model displaying realistic water effects like water splashing on the bow
*Extensive mapping options for keys and joystick buttons
*Anchoring and advanced rope system which allows you to connect and disconnect player ships to other ships or mooring boulders at will
*A system for sinking player ships when damaged below the water line
*Mid-mission save function
*Enhanced ship bridges with more interactive elements
*An advanced system for establishing ranks in different ship classes linked to the online player profile
*Ability to set a trajectory with waypoints in free-roaming mode by pointing-and-clicking on the game map
*Extended environments for Rotterdam and Hamburg harbors
*Option for dual-screen users (full chart on second monitor)
*Rating missions indicated by stars

For more information about Ship Simulator 2008 or Lighthouse Interactive, please visit http://www.shipsim.com/ and http://www.lighthouse-interactive.com/.

SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS:
OS: Microsoft® Windows® 2000 / XP / Vista®
CPU: 2.4 GHz Intel® Pentium® IV or AMD® processor
RAM: 1 GB RAM (2 GB recommended for Windows® Vista(tm)) Video: 128 MB NVIDIA® GeForce(tm) 5900 or ATI® 9600 Pro / X600 video card
PC CD-ROM: 4x (or PC DVD-ROM drive)
Available Hard Disk Space: 500 MB
Multiplayer: LAN or 56K (or faster) Internet Connection
Sound: DirectX® 9.0 compatible sound card
Other: Keyboard, Speakers and Mouse with scroll wheel
Optional Controllers: Joystick, Joypad or Steering wheel

Labels: Lighthouse Interactive, PC, Ship Simulator 2008

EA REVS UP BURNOUT PARADISE WITH

INNOVATION AND STYLE

PLAYSTATION®3 version to feature Rumble Controls, 3-Button EasyDrive & PLAYSTATION®Eye for Instant Mugshots that Capture the Fun of the Moment

Redwood City, CA - September 21, 2007 – Paradise City awaits. Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ: ERTS) today revealed the unique feature set that will define Burnout™ Paradise – the next-generation of Burnout. With true open world freedom, seamless ‘EasyDrive’ online multiplayer, four unique single-player events, and hundreds of online Freeburn challenges, Burnout Paradise thrusts gamers into an incredibly vivid HD world that pushes the limits of the PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system and Xbox 360™ videogame system. The white knuckle action explodes as players pull up at any stoplight and spin their wheels to jumpstart the action.

Spectacular bone-crushing crashes and an unparalleled sense of speed will always be a hallmark of Burnout games but Burnout Paradise ups the ante with an all new game design that expands the experience into a deeper, ever more immersive driving dream. Some of the key features that set Burnout Paradise apart include:

*True Open World Freedom – The entire city will be available from the outset, giving players the freedom to explore this immersive world known as Paradise City. Experience open world driving Burnout style as the action begins with you, but it doesn’t have to end.

*EasyDrive Online Social Gaming – See your friends online with the EasyDrive Friends List and connect with them instantly without having to wait or exit your game. Burnout Paradise is revolutionizing the way players jump on and offline, making it as simple and quick as possible.

*Single-player Events – Choose from Race, Marked Man, Road Rage, and Stunt by pulling up to the numerous stoplights in the game to initiate the event. The action isn’t forced any longer, as players have the freedom to start and even end a challenge at their leisure.

“This is the true beginning of next generation racing. On PLAYSTATION 3 and Xbox 360, we are delivering a game that brings brilliant graphics into HD at 60 frames per second. Burnout Paradise does something that no other Burnout game has ever done – it gives the player full control on how to play the game,” said Alex Ward, Creative Director at EA Criterion. “At Criterion, we have a long history of delivering stand-out software on the PlayStation consoles. The entire team is fired up about the opportunity to carry that heritage into the PLAYSTATION 3 generation.”

Burnout Paradise will have you feeling every bump, crash, scrape, and collision using Sony’s new DUALSHOCK®3 Wireless Controller with rumble feature for the PLAYSTATION 3 . The EasyDrive online Friends List keeps the action flowing on the PLAYSTATION 3, as players get into a challenge with three easy taps of a button. Once the competition heats up, players can grab snapshots as they rip through opponents and collect candid Mugshots of friends and foes alike using the PLAYSTATION Eye. The Xbox 360 version of the game features Mugshots using Xbox LIVE® Vision.

Burnout Paradise has not yet been rated by the ESRB and PEGI. Developed by the award-winning team at EA Criterion in Guildford, the game will ship under the EA™ brand this Winter. For more information about the Burnout franchise, please visit http://burnout.ea.com/ or the EA press website at http://info.ea.com/.

Labels: Burnout Paradise, EA, PLAYSTATION 3, Xbox 360

EA LAUNCHES CRITICALLY ACCLAIMED SKATE VIDEOGAME FOR PLAYSTATION 3

SKATE is Rolling off the Retail Shelves and is One of

EA’s Fastest-Selling, Wholly-Owned Intellectual Properties

REDWOOD CITY, Calif. – September 25, 2007 – Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ: ERTS) announced that SKATE for the PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system hits retail stores today. Recently released for the Xbox 360™ videogame and entertainment system in North America, the game has already received high marks from the top videogame media including a five out of five on GameSpy.com and nine out of 10 on 1up.com, IGN, Yahoo! Games and GamesRadar.com.

“The buzz around SKATE has been through the roof this month; everyone’s talking about it,” said Bob McKenzie, Senior Vice President Merchandising, GameStop. “Based on the exceptional demand from gamers the first week, we clearly have a new contender in the skate videogame genre that will be at the top of everyone’s must-have list for this holiday.”

SKATE delivers an authentic skateboarding experience like no other videogame. The game features innovative Flickit controls that take advantage of the dual analog sticks and a unique and easy-to-use skate.reel feature that allows gamers to capture video footage of their skate session at any time during the game and share the footage online at www.skate.ea.com for other players to view, rate and comment on.

SKATE is also shipping in Europe on October 5 for PLAYSTATION 3 and is currently available for purchase and download from most major mobile operators in North America and Europe. SKATE is developed by EA Black Box in Vancouver, British Columbia and is rated “T” for Teen by the ESRB and 12+ by PEGI.

Labels: EA, PLAYSTATION 3, SKATE

CRYSIS SINGLE PLAYER DEMO MOVES TO OCTOBER 26, 2007

EA and Crytek are announcing today that the single player demo for Crysis is moving to October 26, 2007. The demo will also be released with Crytek’s CryEngine 2 – Sandbox 2 game editor, giving the community a great amount of hands on time with the powerful mod tools coming with Crysis before the November 16th release date.

Please see Crytek CEO Cevat Yerli’s note to the community for more details.

_______________________________________________________________

Hi everyone,

We have some news to announce.

First, I am sorry for the bad news - the Crysis single player demo will now be available everywhere on October 26th, 2007.

We are taking some extra time to make sure you that you have an amazing experience but also we did not want to risk the release date of Crysis at this stage. To get the game into your hands by November the 16th, we had to make this call.

Now the good news - the big surprise. The SP demo will be released with our CryEngine 2 - Sandbox 2 game editor, giving the community the opportunity to get familiar with the vast amount of tools they will have at their disposal four weeks before we ship, something we have always wanted to do.

This is an exciting time for us at the studio as the development of Crysis comes to an end and we are only a few weeks from Gold Master. We appreciate your patience and are looking forward to getting Crysis into your hands on November 16th.


Thanks

Cevat Yerli

CEO & Crytek

Labels: Crysis, EA

Everyone’s Favorite Hero, Master Chief, Prepares for Marquee Appearances On Spike TV, SCI FI Channel and Comedy Central

Spike TV, SCI FI Channel and Comedy Central are giving millions of “Halo” fans a reason to Believe with an exciting and unprecedented look at the most anticipated game in history, “Halo 3”, before its release on Sept. 25. On track to be the biggest day in entertainment history, “Halo 3” is gearing up for exclusive and dedicated programming across a variety of cable networks.

This groundbreaking four-day effort kicks off on Comedy Central, Saturday, Sept. 22, with celebrity-filled coverage from the exclusive “Halo 3” party in Las Vegas, and the unveiling of the Master Chief Madame Tussaude’s Wax Museum figure, during the 2007 MTV Video Music Awards weekend. Not to be outdone, on Sept. 24, Spike TV’s “Game Head” will host a live feed from the “Halo 3” marquee launch event at New York City’s flagship Best Buy store, where scores of fans, celebrities and professional athletes will be on hand to celebrate the launch. The network’s coverage will go well into the night with a full-length program titled “Halo 3: Launched!” following the live ‘midnight madness” coverage on Tuesday, Sept. 25. Continuing Master Chief’s programming appearances, on Sept. 25, “Halo” Nation will dare to put down their Xbox 360 controllers and tune into “Halo 3: Sci vs. Fi” on the SCI FI Channel, which dives deep into the dynamics of creating the renowned “Halo” storyline.

Spike TV

Starting at 9 p.m. EST on Monday, Sept. 24, Spike TV’s, “Game Head,” will broadcast live from the “Halo 3” marquee launch event in New York City (Best Buy, 529 5th Ave) highlighting the festivities that are taking place as the world prepares for the clock to strike midnight. Following the build-up, “Halo 3: Launched!” will showcase the immense movement in society known as “Halo Nation” with super-fans, celebrities, and the everyday gamer sharing testimonials on how Halo has changed their lives. The program will also give fans VIP access to an astounding array of additional “Halo 3” launch activities, including flash mobs at IMAX theaters, and a special performance by Linkin Park at a party held in the game’s honor during the 2007 MTV Video Music Awards in Las Vegas.

SCI FI Channel

On Sept. 25, the action shifts to the SCI FI Channel, which will premier “Halo 3: Sci vs. Fi” at 4 p.m. EST, with an encore at 11 p.m. EST. “Halo 3: Sci vs. Fi” takes an academic look at what goes into creating the world’s most popular video game. The program begins by uncovering the “Fi,” or fiction process that went into the game’s world-renowned storyline. Interviews with the writing and producing team at Bungie Studios, as well as with numerous industry luminaries will compare the game’s storyline to other epic sagas from the literary, television and film worlds. The show then switches gears to focus on the “Sci,” or science behind the game. What does it take to turn a great story into the gold standard for the “first-person-shooter?” The viewer will get a first-hand look at how the game evolves from words and sketches to code and eventually the biggest popular culture property of the year. “Halo 3: Sci vs. Fi” is being produced in conjunction with G-Net Media, creators of such video-game focused shows as, “Settle the Score” and “Fresh Baked Video Games.”

Comedy Central

An eclectic list of celebrities will show and tell their “first gameplay experience” with “Halo” on the upcoming Comedy Central “Fully Loaded” feature on Saturday, Sept. 22, starting at 8pm. The program, which is hosted by comedian, Bobby Lee, will air snippets throughout the evening from the Xbox Oasis at Tao Beach, a new extension of Tao nightclub at the Venetian Hotel in Las Vegas. Mega-producer Pharell Williams, comedian Wayne Brady, Fallout Boy’s Pete Wentz, and rap stars Eve and Lil Jon make appearances.

For additional exclusive “Halo 3” entertainment programming, fans can also check out G4 TV on Sept. 25, who will also broadcast a “Halo 3” launch special.

Labels: Halo 3, Microsoft

What better way to break from counting down the hours until Halo 3 than to get behind the wheel of more than 10 brand new racers and muscle cars in a downloadable car pack for “Forza Motorsport 2,” available on Xbox LIVE Marketplace this weekend.

To get fans warmed up, we’re offering a rally inspired hot little European hatch the 2007 SEAT Leon Cupra as a FREE download to bolster the already extensive collection of “Forza” racers.

For 400 Microsoft points, Forza fans can own the track taking laps in 10 great vehicles including a race ready turbo diesel (the Audi R10) and a low performance class inline 4 that’s an absolute tuner’s dream (the Honda Civic Si Coupe). Show your muscle with an American classic, the 1970 Dodge Challenger R/T or turn it up another notch behind the wheel of the 415 horsepower, 8,400 rpm 2007 Porsche GT3 RS.

2007 SEAT Leon Cupra (FREE DOWNLOAD)
2006 Audi R10 (#8 Audi Sport Team Joest) Prototype
1970 Dodge Challenger R/T Hemi
2006 Dodge Challenger Concept
2006 Honda Civic Si Coupe
2007 Honda Civic Type-R
1967 Lamborghini Miura P400
2006 Lamborghini Miura Concept
2007 Porsche 911 GT3 RS (997)
2007 Saturn Sky Red Line
2007 SEAT Leon Supercup
So celebrate the coming of Halo 3 next week downloading these great cars, tricking them out with your best Halo-inspired paint job and racing them to victory.

For more information and new screen shots of some of the more notable vehicles in this car pack, be sure to cruise over to forzamotorsport.net.

Labels: Forza Motorsport 2, Microsoft, Xbox 360

Starting this Xbox LIVE Arcade Wednesday and continuing for a week, three favorite titles will be available worldwide at a discount, including “Bankshot Billiards 2,” “Frogger,” and “Hardwood Spades.”

Beginning at 12:00 a.m. GMT on Wednesday, September 26 (5:00 p.m. PDT on Thursday, September 27) and continuing through 11: 59 p.m. GMT (4:59 p.m. PDT) on Tuesday, October 2, the following Xbox LIVE Arcade games will be available at a discounted price:


“Bankshot Billiards 2” (PixelStorm) – 900 Microsoft Points (normally 1200 Microsoft Points)

· “Bankshot Billiards 2” improves upon the original with nine different game styles: classic 8-Ball, 9-Ball, Cutthroat, Euro 8-Ball, 14.1 Continuous, 3-Ball, Trick Shots, Time Trial, and Golf.

· For more details on “Bankshot Billiards 2,” please visit http://www.xbox.com/en-US/games/b/bankshotbilliardslivearcadexbox360/


“Frogger” (Konami) – 300 Microsoft Points (normally 400 Microsoft Points)

· With enhanced artwork building on the original title's style, modernized sound and music, and all new play modes, you won't want to miss out on “Frogger” on Xbox LIVE Arcade!

· For more details on “Frogger,” please visit http://www.xbox.com/en-US/games/f/froggerlivearcadexbox360/


“Hardwood Spades” (Silver Creek Entertainment) – 300 Microsoft Points (normally 400 Microsoft Points)

· The game where a trick IS a treat, “Hardwood Spades” is multiplayer card game that offers customizable backgrounds, card faces, card backs and tables.

· For more details on “Hardwood Spades,” please visit http://www.xbox.com/en-US/games/h/hardwoodspadeslivearcadexbox360/

Also coming this Wednesday is “Bomb-Up Pack 2,” the second add-on pack for “Bomberman Live,” available for 250 Microsoft Points. For more details please visit www.xbox.com/livearcade.

Labels: Microsoft, Xbox Live Arcade

Redwood City, CA. – September 24, 2007 – Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ: ERTS) today announced that the award-winning EA Redwood Shores Studio has been developing an original intellectual property that will introduce a new experience to the sci-fi horror genre. In the brilliant, bold and often-bloody Dead Space™ gamers will step into a third-person sci-fi survival horror experience that promises to deliver the ultimate in psychological thrills and gruesome action.

Set in the cold blackness of deep space, the atmosphere is soaked with a feeling of tension, dread and sheer terror. In Dead Space, players step into the role of engineer Isaac Clarke – an ordinary man on a seemingly routine mission to fix the communications systems aboard a deep space mining ship. It is not long before Isaac awakes to a living nightmare when he learns that the ship’s crew has been ravaged by a vicious alien infestation. He must fight through the dead silence and darkness of deep space to stay alive.

Executive Producer Glen Schofield commented, “This team has worked on some tremendous properties but we have always wanted to work on something that was darker and creepier. We are all such huge fans of the horror and sci-fi genres; we wanted to create the most terrifying game we could, and keep the player on the edge of his seat the entire time.”

Under development at EA Redwood Shores, Dead Space is expected to ship in late 2008 for the PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system and Xbox 360™ videogame and entertainment system. This product is not yet rated by PEGI or ESRB. More information about Dead Space is available at www.deadspacegame.com.

Labels: Dead Space, EA

BREAKING NEWS - Novato, CA – SEPTEMBER 19, 2007

2K Sports Announces NBA® 2K8 Playable Demo Available Now on Xbox LIVE Marketplace

2K Sports offers gamers a sneak peak of the most anticipated NBA title this year

Available on October 2 on the Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, the PLAYSTATION®3 and the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, NBA® 2K8, the latest installment of the #1 rated 2K basketball series*, is now available as a playable Xbox 360 demo via Xbox LIVE® Marketplace. Gamers can download the free demo that delivers a four-minute exhibition game of NBA 2K8, allowing basketball fans to experience the most exciting NBA simulation title this year.

The latest installment of the #1 rated* NBA® 2K series, NBA 2K8 delivers true next generation visuals and gameplay, setting new standards never experienced before in a sports title. Highlights include a host of new contact animations that bring a new level of physical play in the post and while playing defense, new offball play system, and hundreds of new Signature Style animations that capture all the jump shot, dribble, and dunk moves performed by every major NBA athlete. NBA 2K8 also introduces the new NBA Blacktop features highlighted by the exciting Sprite Slam Dunk Contest.

NBA 2K8 will be available for the Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, the PLAYSTATION®3 and the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system on October 2^nd.

REDWOOD SHORES, CA – September 19, 2007 – Hudson Entertainment, the North American publishing arm for Hudson Soft, today announced that they have partnered with Destructoid.com, one of the top video game entertainment news sites, in Bomb-Up Pack 2, the second add-on pack for the Bomberman LIVE game on Xbox LIVE® Arcade. This new add-on pack will star Destructoid’s mascot as a playable character, as well as feature over a dozen additions, including ten characters, two levels, two leader boards, and a brand new game mode. Bomb-Up Pack 2 is expected to launch on September 26 and will cost 250 Microsoft Points ($3.13).

“We continue to see great success with Bomberman Live, and are committed to bringing fresh new content through add-on packs for the game,” said John Greiner, President and CEO of Hudson Entertainment. “Hudson is always pushing the creative envelope, and featuring a major gaming website in a game, a first for the industry, is a fun way to demonstrate our dedication to the community.”

“Not only is it an honor to have Destructoid represented in Bomberman Live, but it may also be the first time an online community has been immortalized in a popular gaming franchise,” said Niero Gonzalez, Creator of Destructoid.com. “We’re grateful that Hudson has extended our brand in this unique way, and invite all gamers to wreak havoc as the infamous Mr. Destructoid.”

This Bomberman LIVE add-on pack will add the following features:

· The Destructoid Mascot – The iconic, robotic mascot makes his way into the game, complete with his trademark helmet and white suit. Players can dress up their Bomberman as the robot and bomb away with the impunity of a blogger.

· Ten New Characters – In addition to Destructoid, other new characters include “Bomberella” the cavewoman and “El Bombito” the matador, resulting in countless new ways for players to customize their in-game Bomberman.

· Two Additional Levels – New arenas include “Medieval Times,” a level in which bombs and sorcery collide, and the hypersonic “Full Tilt.” racetrack

· One New Game Mode – “Bomb Shelters” will allow players to hide from explosions in a small, fireproof building.

· Two New Leaderboards – Dominate the competition on two new ranking systems on the Xbox LIVE® network. The new leaderboards will track performance on both a weekly and an all-time basis for the speed circle gimmicks on the new “Full Tilt” map.

CALL OF DUTY 4: MODERN WARFARE

COLLECTOR’S EDITION CALLED INTO BATTLE

Santa Monica, CA – Sept. 11, 2007 – Activision, Inc. (Nasdaq: ATVI) announced today that a Limited Collector’s Edition of Infinity Ward’s Call of Duty® 4: Modern Warfare™ for the Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and Windows® PC will begin deployment on November 5 as part of the worldwide launch of the most intense and cinematic action game ever. Each Limited Collector’s Edition includes a special hardcover book featuring exclusive concepts, never-before-seen imagery and final artwork from the award-winning team that details the breath-taking action from the soldier to the satellite.

The Xbox 360 edition also takes gamers behind-the-scenes with a bonus DVD containing more than four hours of interviews and features, an exclusive documentary exploring the British S.A.S from World War II to modern day, and a series of “making of” vignettes highlighting Infinity Ward’s research, technology and story development for Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare. For Windows PC fans, in addition to the hardcover art book, the Limited Collector’s Edition for PC will include a digital copy of the BradyGAMES Official Strategy Guide. The strategy guide provides players with a detailed single-player walkthrough, top-down maps, multiplayer strategies, weapon load-outs, and numerous other tips for the hardcore soldier.

Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare for Xbox 360™, Windows® PC and PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system will begin deployment on Tuesday, November 5, 2007 and has been rated “M” for Mature by the ESRB for Intense Violence, Strong Language, Blood and Gore. The game will also be available for and Nintendo DS™ and has been rated “T” for Teen by the ESRB for Teen for Blood and Violence.

Players anxious to answer the call can visit www.charlieoscardelta.com for additional information and exclusive updates.

UILTY GEAR XX ACCENT CORE FOR THE PlayStation®2 COMPUTER ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEM HITS RETAILERS TODAY

Heaven or Hell! Let’s Rock!

Torrance, CA (September 11, 2007) – The newest incarnation of the popular fighting game franchise, Guilty Gear XX Accent Core, ships to retailers nationwide, courtesy of Aksys Games, a publisher of interactive entertainment products. Developed by Arc System Works, this latest iteration returns with its trademark high-resolution graphics along with an entirely retuned fighting system, new stages, new characters, graphics, voices and the ability to create matches between old and new characters in the Generations Mode.

"We are proud to finally be releasing what is arguably the best Guilty Gear game in the series," said Gail Salamanca, Director of Marketing, Aksys Games. "Having worked on the original Guilty Gear game, it's great to see how the series has changed and evolved since then. One thing that hasn't changed though, has been Guilty Gear's ability to build such a dedicated and passionate fan-base. So, we'd like to thank the fans for their input and enthusiasm in helping bring Accent Core to the U.S. market."?
Key Features:

• Over 20 deadly combatants to choose from, including 2 new characters!?All of your favorite characters have returned with new moves and an alternate EX version of each. Accent Core also introduces 2 reinvented fighters, A.B.A and Order-Sol that have never been seen outside of Japan.?
• Refined fighting game system with 3 new gameplay systems!?Accent Core’s Force Break, Throw Escape and Slash Back systems give all the fighters’ new defensive and offensive capabilities.?
• New sights and sounds!?New backgrounds, character voices and an introductory animation have been added for a fresh Guilty Gear experience.?
• Multiple modes of mayhem!?Hone your fighting skills in 5 different modes: Arcade, Medal of Millionaire, Versus, Survival and Training

PlayStation 3 Owners Can Now Get Their Itchy Trigger Fingers on the Stranglehold Demo Now Available for Download at the PlayStation Store.

Midway today announced that a demo for the highly anticipated, non-stop action video game, Stranglehold, is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. Stranglehold, starring international film icon Chow Yun-Fat and world-renowned action director John Woo, brings action and suspense to the Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 and PC. The full version of Stranglehold has been released for the Xbox 360 and is currently expected to ship on September 18 for the PC and September 25 for the PlayStation 3.

The Stranglehold PlayStation 3 demo will allow players to get a taste of the intense, non-stop action, cinematic gunplay and massively destructible environments that their itchy trigger fingers have been waiting for. A collaboration with world renowned action film director John Woo's Tiger Hill Entertainment, Stranglehold allows players to experience the excitement of true next-gen action as you take on the role of Inspector Tequila created by John Woo for his influential action film, "Hard Boiled" starring Chow Yun-Fat. Ensnared by a crime boss with a gripping secret, Inspector Tequila is forced to cross the line from sworn duty to renegade cop. Engage your enemies with intense cinematic gun battles and cause massive environmental damage in real-time or revolutionary slow-motion Tequila Time.

Bethesda Softworks Announces The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion® Game of the Year Edition for Xbox 360™ and Windows Now Shipping

Expanded Version of Award-Winning Role Playing Game Available This Week

September 10, 2007 (Rockville, MD) – Bethesda Softworks®, a ZeniMax Media company, announced today that The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion® Game of the Year Edition (GotY) for Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and Windows has begun shipping to retail stores throughout North America and will be in stores as early as Tuesday, September 11. Oblivion GotY includes the original version of the award-winning RPG, Oblivion, along with the official expansion, The Elder Scrolls® IV: Shivering Isles™, and the downloadable content, Knights of the Nine™.

This new product allows players who have never played the 2006 Game of the Year to experience Oblivion along with additional content. Gamers can also continue their existing games of Oblivion and experience the new quests and areas offered by the expansion and downloadable content.

Released in March 2006 for Windows and Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and in March 2007 for the PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system, Oblivion has already earned countless awards from publications around the world and won numerous Game of the Year and RPG of the Year awards. It has also recently achieved the status of both Xbox 360 Platinum Hit (North America) and Xbox 360 Classic (Europe). The Xbox 360 Platinum Hits and Classics programs allow existing gamers and new gamers alike to have access to great games at an amazing price.

Oblivion features a powerful combination of free-form gameplay, unprecedented graphics, cutting edge AI, character voices by acting legends Patrick Stewart, Sean Bean, Terrance Stamp, and Lynda Carter, and an award-winning soundtrack. Gamers can choose to unravel Oblivion’s epic narrative at their own pace or explore the vast world in search of their own unique challenges.

With more than 30 hours of new gameplay, Shivering Isles allows you to explore an entirely new plane of Oblivion – the realm of Sheogorath, the Daedric Prince of Madness. Shivering Isles features a bizarre landscape split between the two sides – Mania and Dementia –filled with vast, twisting dungeons mirroring the roots of the trees they are buried within. Sheogorath himself looks to you to be his champion and defend his realm and its inhabitants from destruction as you discover all new items, ingredients, spells, and much more.

Knights of the Nine features an all-new faction and quests for noble characters and answers many of the questions surrounding the Ayleid ruins found throughout Oblivion. Players can join a new faction and found their own order of holy knights – leading them into battle against a sorcerer-king and his demonic minions while exploring massive dungeons and searching for legendary relics – the holy armor and weapons of the Divine Crusader.

Oblivion GotY will be available for PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system from SCEA next month. In October, Bethesda Softworks will also ship Shivering Isles for Xbox 360 at retail as a standalone expansion. For more information on Oblivion, Shivering Isles, or The Elder Scrolls, visit www.elderscrolls.com.

BioShock demo sets record as fastest title to surpass 1 million downloads on
Xbox LIVE® Marketplace

New York, NY – September 10, 2007 –2K Games, a publishing label of Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. (NASDAQ: TTWO), announced today that BioShock, its hit title exclusively available for Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and Games for Windows®, secured the position of all-time top ranked Xbox 360 game* and the year’s highest ranked game across all console platforms on Metacritic.com, the popular site that aggregates review scores from the leading video game publications and websites. In addition, the title has set a new record on Xbox LIVEÒ as the fastest downloaded demo to ever reach the 1 million mark. The gaming community first learned that the Xbox 360™ demo version of BioShock became available to download on Microsoft’s Xbox LIVE Marketplace via a surprise announcement on August 12.

While many games receive high praise for a specific feature, BioShock’s rave reception revolves around all of its key components. This includes the unique art deco design, the eerie ambiance of its full orchestra score and the 40’s era soundtrack, the interactive quality of the environments, dripping and flood-rushing water effects that have set a new standard for realism, a deep and engaging story line, and gameplay that involves moral choices, an array of options for surmounting obstacles and adversaries, and a power-up component that involves biologically altering your character.

In only nine days since its release on Xbox LIVE, BioShock had outperformed every other demo release on the service, demonstrating both the incredible anticipation for the game and the growth of Xbox LIVE’s community.

“We are really pleased that Microsoft’s Xbox LIVE Marketplace has managed to attract a record number of gamers to its site to download and check out BioShock,” said Christoph Hartmann, President of 2K. “The overwhelmingly positive response is not only reflected in the traffic to Xbox LIVE, but the record breaking score reported by Metacritic. We’re excited about the reception the fans have given BioShock and are honored that the game has been recognized as ‘Game of the Year’ material.”

With an overall review score of 96 (out of 100) based on more than 50 different critical reviews, the Xbox 360 version of BioShock has earned “Universal Acclaim” status* on Metacritic. Among the leading video game enthusiast outlets that awarded one or more versions of BioShock with a perfect score are Game Informer, 1UP, Games Radar, GameSpy, GamePro, Yahoo! Games, Games Daily, and Electronic Gaming Monthly.

Developed by 2K Boston and 2K Australia for 2K Games, BioShock is a "genetically enhanced" first-person shooter that lets players do things never before possible in the genre. Gamers enter the game as a castaway in Rapture, a decaying art deco underwater utopia torn apart by civil war. Caught between powerful forces and hunted down by genetically modified "splicers" and deadly security systems, players have to come to grips with a deadly, mysterious world filled with powerful technology, fascinating characters and morality defining choices. To make it to the end, players can turn everything they encounter into a weapon, biologically modify their body with plasmids, hack devices and security systems, upgrade weapons, craft new ammo variants, and experiment with different battle techniques. No encounter ever plays out the same and no two gamers will play BioShock the same way.

For more information, visit the BioShock website at http://www.2kgames.com/bioshock

New label leverages growing casual game market

Nick Jr. Preschool Television Hits Dora the Explorer and Go, Diego, Go!

lead new 2K Play portfolio of family-friendly games

New York, NY – September 10, 2007 –Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. (NASDAQ: TTWO) today announced the formation of 2K Play, a new publishing label dedicated to casual gaming. As part of the 2K Play initiative, Take-Two also announced an expansive new handheld and console video game licensing agreement with Nickelodeon, a partnership involving top-rated properties including Nick Jr. preschool television hits, Dora the Explorer and Go, Diego, Go!

Dora the Explorer and Go, Diego, Go! will be the first titles under the new 2K Play label and will be released this fall in North America. According to Nielsen ratings (4/2/07-7/1/07), Dora the Explorer and Go, Diego, Go! are the top two ranked television shows for kids 2-5. The NPD Group cites Dora the Explorer as the #1 toy license in 2006 based on dollar sales and Go, Diego, Go! is now supported by over 300 licensees worldwide.

“We welcome our new partnership with 2K Play,” said Shaul Olmert, Vice President/Digital Media products for Nickelodeon and MTVN Kids and Family Group. “This is the first time Go, Diego, Go! is coming to handheld and console systems and will mark Dora the Explorer’s debut on the popular Nintendo DS™ system. We are excited to welcome 2K Play into our growing family of innovative digital products.”

2K Play joins leading publishing labels 2K Games and 2K Sports as a new division in the 2K portfolio. The new label will absorb Take-Two’s Global Star Software label, including the Carnival Games brand, the Cat Daddy Games studio and PC games based on the popular Deal or No Deal franchise.

“The 2K Play label targets the growing market of casual gamers interested in accessible, high-quality products,” said Christoph Hartmann, President of 2K. “It will be home to games that are fun and engaging for players of varied skill types and ages. Our exciting initiative with Nick Jr. will offer a host of games featuring world-famous brands that appeal to the family-friendly gamer.”

Additional information regarding the 2K Play lineup of games will be available in the coming months.

EA sent over a new Battlefield Bad Company trailer - check it out!

Labels: Battlefield Bad Company, EA

Lighthouse Interactive Announces New Release Date for Belief & Betrayal

Haarlem, The Netherlands -- Sep 06, 2007 -- Leading Publisher Lighthouse Interactive and dtp entertainment AG today announced that Belief & Betrayal, their enthralling Adventure game involving faith and superstition; power and intrigue; truth and conspiracy, has a new release date in North America, United Kingdom, Scandinavia and Benelux territories. Originally scheduled to release later this year for Windows® PC CD-ROM, both parties have decided it is in the best interest of the fans and the game to release the game in Q1 2008.

"Since Belief & Betrayal is one of the Top 10 most highly anticipated Adventure games, it is very important for us to make sure we satisfy those expectations," said Steve Wall, Vice President of Lighthouse Interactive. "The game has already been released to rave reviews and retail success in France, Germany, Austria and Switzerland, and we want to ensure Belief & Betrayal receives the same attention with the English version in North America and other English speaking territories."

To find out more about Belief & Betrayal and to keep up with the latest news on the game, visit www.lighthouse-interactive.com and www.beliefandbetrayal-game.com.

GAME SUMMARY:

As journalist Jonathan Danter, you discover that the murder of your uncle ten years earlier is somehow part of a greater ancient mystery that could destroy humanity itself.

Filled with controversy, baffling plot twists, and conspiracy theories, you must uncover the mystery that reaches back through history from 1194 A.D. to the time Judas received 30 pieces of silver to betray Christ.

Embark upon an awe-inspiring investigation to uncover the ghastly secrets behind your uncle's murder. Travel to exotic locations throughout Europe including: London, Venice, Rome, and the Vatican. Uncover skeletons hidden deep within the closets of some of the most powerful leaders around the world. Unveil the menacing truth that will shake the very foundation of the Church.

FEATURES:

* Throughout the game, play between various characters to solve the mystery
* Find lost ancient manuscripts and decipher mind-boggling codes and symbols
* Explore stunning environments and incredibly re-created historic locations
* Strong action/adventure storyline creates a compelling gameplay experience
* Use the memories and thoughts of the intriguing cast of characters to solve puzzles and expose dark mysteries
* Game based on historical events though the story is pure fiction
* Easy to navigate 3rd person point & click interface based on the Virtools® engine

MINIMUM SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS:

OS: Windows® 2000 / XP / Vista(tm)
CPU: 1.2 GHz Intel® Pentium® processor or AMD® Athlon(tm) processor
RAM: 256 MB (1 GB recommended for Windows® Vista(tm))
Video: 64 MB DirectX® 9.0c compatible or better video card
PC CD-ROM: 4x (or PC DVD-ROM drive)
Sound: 16-bit DirectX® compatible sound card
Available Hard Disk Space: 2.5 GB
DirectX®: 9.0c
Other: Mouse, Keyboard and Speakers

NBA LIVE 08 Demo Now Available on Xbox LIVE Marketplace

A full playable demo of NBA LIVE 08 for the Xbox 360 is now available on Xbox LIVE Marketplace. Play as the Cleveland Cavaliers or San Antonio Spurs and experience NBA basketball at its best before it ships to a store near you. If it’s the International game you crave, suit up as France or Spain under our new FIBA. On the perimeter, in the paint, and with complete authenticity to the sport of basketball, dominate with your Go-To Move with NBA LIVE 08.

A PS3 downloadable demo is also coming soon to the PLAYSTATION® Store.

The game will be available at retailers under the EA SPORTS brand on Tuesday, October 2. NBA LIVE 08 was developed by EA Canada and is rated “E” by the ESRB. The game’s official website is www.easports.com/nbalive08.com.

Labels: EA Sports, NBA Live 08

LEGENDS OF NORRATH™ NOW AVAILABLE

FOR ALL EVERQUEST® AND EVERQUEST® II PLAYERS

New Online Trading Card Game Playable Within and Across Online RPG’s;

Subscribers to Receive Free Starter Deck
Legends of Norrath™ Oathbound, the online trading card game based on the rich fantasy worlds of EverQuest® and EverQuest® II, is now live and available for all EQ and EQII subscribers. Playable from within either of the two online games, players can take on challengers in casual gameplay or test their skills against AI opponents, across all servers, within both live games.

Oathbound is the first release in the Legends of Norrath storyline, featuring more than 375 digital cards, available in both 55 card digital starter decks for $9.99 (plus applicable taxes) and 15 card digital booster packs for $2.99 (plus applicable taxes). In the three-part Oathbound storyline, players become part of a secret war between the forces of Order and Chaos, preventing the realm of Norrath from the brunt of a bloody and eternal war.

In addition to player vs. player combat, Legends of Norrath provides the complete online card gaming experience, featuring a sophisticated, re-playable AI system for single player campaigns, easy to use management tools and numerous Casual and Tournament game lobbies. Victory can be achieved by completing quests or reducing your opponent’s health, enabling players to employ their own unique strategies for victory. The game also features a robust loot system; more than 30 loot items each for EQ and EQII will be available, including player mounts, potions, clothing, weapon adornments and spells.

To get started on the fun, EQ and EQII players will receive a free starter deck and game client to play. Non-subscribers will also get a chance to compete against the EQ and EQII community on September 12, when a free stand alone version of the game is scheduled to be available.

For more information on Legends of Norrath, visit the website at www.legendsofnorrath.com.

Labels: Everquest II, Legends of Norrath

EA ANNOUNCES The Sims on Stage –

A NEW ENTERTAINMENT, COMMUNITY AND PERFORMANCE PLATFORM FROM THE SIMS LABEL

Experience the Ultimate Online Destination for Performance and Creative Expression with The Sims and Find Your 15 Minutes of Fame!

REDWOOD CITY, Calif.—Sept. 5, 2007—Today, Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ: ERTS) announced the beta launch of The Sims™ On Stage, an interactive online playground that allows anyone with a standard PC or Mac™ and broadband connection to unleash their inner creativity! By visiting www.thesimsonstage.com, people can immediately and free-of-charge start recording karaoke songs, stories, comedy routines and more. The site offers incredibly fun and accessible tools that make it easy to watch, create and share recordings with just a few close friends, The Sims On Stage community, or the entire world online. Bringing together elements of performance, humor and community, The Sims On Stage is the perfect destination for people to express their creativity – and enjoy the talent and imagination of others!

“The Sims has long had one of the largest, friendliest and most creative communities in the world. With the release of The Sims On Stage, we welcome a new kind of customer to our way of having fun,” said Studio Head of The Sims Label, Rod Humble. “The world of interactive entertainment is now broader than ever thanks to new web-based technologies, and we are thrilled to give you a new way of having fun with The Sims On Stage.”

The Sims On Stage will also feature an easy-to-use Movie Mashup that will allow members to create original movies featuring The Sims content made available exclusively to members of The Sims On Stage community. Looking for your 15 minutes of fame? The Sims On Stage spotlight shines on thousands of well-known rock, pop and country songs available to karaoke fans at launch, making it easy to record and share your favorite ditty! And if singing is not your thing, take a shot at Open-Mic Recordings and share your favorite performances -- from spoken word and comedy routines, to knock-knock jokes and more!

Keep recordings private or make them public for the world to see! With one click of the mouse, The Sims On Stage members can easily upload their recordings onto blogs, social networking sites and more. Plug in your microphone, grab your webcam and record away!

Launching today in English, The Sims On Stage is an entertainment and performance destination based on the online karaoke community, SingShot Media that was acquired by Electronic Arts in February 2007. Please visit www.thesimsonstage.com for more details, and to experience the fun firsthand!

Labels: Apple Macintosh, PC, Sims On Stage

Grateful Dead Join Super Group Line-up Coming to Rock Band™

Harmonix and MTV Games Partner with Rhino Entertainment
to bring 18 Classic Grateful Dead Master Recordings to the Rock Band Videogame Platform

New York, NY – September 5, 2007– Harmonix, the leading developer of music-based games, MTV Games, a division of MTV Networks within Viacom (NYSE: VIA, VIA.B), and Rhino Entertainment, a division of Warner Music Group (NYSE:WMG), announced a deal that will bring the legendary band Grateful Dead to the highly anticipated music videogame Rock Band. The iconic group is making 18 master recordings from its diverse catalog available as digitally distributed game levels following Rock Band’s release this holiday season. Among the songs available will be the classic Dead tracks “Truckin’,” “Uncle John’s Band,” “Touch of Grey,” “Sugar Magnolia,” and “Casey Jones.”

“Grateful Dead’s unique fusion of rock, folk, bluegrass, blues, and jazz challenged traditional musical boundaries and pushed the limits of creativity to produce a signature sound that is undeniably their own,” stated Paul DeGooyer, MTV's Senior Vice President of Audio, Home Video and Electronic Games. “With an enormous legion of fans all over the world, Rock Band will give players a chance to interact with the music of these beloved rock pioneers and experience what Grateful Dead did best - jam from the depths of their souls.”

Distributed by Electronic Arts (NASDAQ: ERTS), Rock Band is an all-new platform for music fans and gamers to interact with music like never before. The game challenges players to put together a band and tour for fame and fortune – all while learning to master lead/bass guitar, drums and vocals. Built on an unprecedented partnership with artists, record labels and music publishers, the music featured in Rock Band will span the full range of rock music and include original master recordings from the greatest songs and artists of all time.

“Grateful Dead, with their 30 year career and their timeless music, are the perfect addition to Rock Band,” says Mark Pinkus, Rhino’s Senior Vice President of Strategic Marketing, Custom Product & Sync Licensing. “It’s going to be a blast playing along to songs ranging from the Dead’s earliest hit ‘Truckin’’ to their final hit ‘Touch of Grey.’ I’m confident that Rock Band will be instrumental in introducing kids to the magical music of Grateful Dead.”

Grateful Dead’s journey ignited in San Francisco’s Haight and Ashbury district during the psychedelic ‘60s. The band, well known for constantly touring, continued to spread their message of peace and love for another three decades with a devoted community of fans known as Dead Heads, many of whom traveled the country with them. Earlier this year, the Recording Academy awarded Grateful Dead a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award for its contribution to the evolution of rock music.

Grateful Dead is the latest artist to join the vast musical downloadable multi-track master offerings of Rock Band, joining the list of epic artists such as Metallica and The Who’s iconic Who’s Next album, the first full album scheduled for downloadable content, in addition to the dozens of on-disc tracks spanning every genre of rock from alternative to classic to heavy metal.
Rock Band is slated for release on Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system from Microsoft® and PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system this Holiday 2007 in North America. For more information on Rock Band and Harmonix Music Systems please visit www.rockband.com and www.harmonixmusic.com.

Labels: EA, Harmonix, Rock Band

EA’S BOOGIE SHAKES ITS WAY ONTO THE NINTENDO DS AND PLAYSTATION 2 THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

Boogie on Nintendo DS Offers Players New Features Including 3D Gameplay

Montreal, Canada – September 5, 2007 – Shake it. Sing it. Create it. Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ: ERTS) announced today that Boogie™, which shipped for the Wii™ in August, is taking its dancing act on the road with a unique Nintendo DS™ version that features the first 3D gameplay on the handheld system. All the new modes in the game can be experienced in full 3D using special glasses packed in to the retail box. Boogie is also shipping on the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system and brings both singing and dancing gameplay to one of the world’s most prevalent hardware systems. Both titles will ship to retail stores this holiday 2007.

Boogie on Nintendo DS introduces new gameplay modes and mini-games not found in the Wii version for easy gaming on the go. The game’s unique modes include DS Download Play and Multi-Card Play, three main dancing gamplay modes including Copycat, Freestyle and Choreography as well as more than 10 mini-games. Players can also dive into the career mode for a deeper experience as they embark on a quest to become the Boogie Master.

Boogie on the PlayStation®2 showcases the game’s signature dancing and singing gameplay. Players can sing along to their favorite tunes or dance to the latest hit songs as well as catch their best dance moves, record their own voice and make music videos with the music video creator.

Boogie features new versions of tracks made popular by hit bands such as The Jackson 5, Kool & The Gang, Black Eyed Peas and Britney Spears. An all-new intellectual property developed at EA Montreal, Boogie is the perfect party game for gamers of all ages. For more information on the game, please visit the website at http://www.boogie.ea.com.

Labels: Boogie, EA, Nintendo DS, Playstation 2

NERJYZED ENTERTAINMENT ANNOUNCES
BLACK COLLEGE FOOTBALL VIDEOGAME: BCFx

Videogame to Showcase Classic HBCU Rivalries, Interactive
Halftime Shows, Original Music and High Intensity Game Play

Nerjyzed Launched a Multi-Market Road Show Labor Day Weekend
To Give Fans a Hands-on Experience with the Game

BATON ROUGE, LA - September 5, 2007 - Nerjyzed Entertainment, Inc., a privately held, African American owned digital entertainment company, announced today the launch of its new sports videogame, Black College Football Experience. An authentic, action-packed football game created using the Unreal 3.0 engine, BCFx is a cultural experience that puts players and fans into the heart of black college football. The game will be supported by a 12-week promotional road tour to HBCU campuses, Classics and homecoming games. BCFx will be available for the PC this November.

"Nerjyzed Entertainment was founded by a veteran team whose mission is to create positive interactive products for the urban market," said Jacqueline Beauchamp, chief executive officer of Nerjyzed Entertainment, Inc. "As HBCU alumni and black college football enthusiasts, we're proud that BCFx honors our rich tradition and provides an incredibly fun football game for the whole family to play."

BCFx is a sports game that captures the unique culture of the black college football experience, fusing advanced videogame design with music, and entertainment. Nerjyzed has secured an exclusive 5-year licensing agreement with three HBCU conferences including the SWAC, SIAC, and CIAA, several schools within the MEAC as well as independent HBCUs. The game features more than 40 teams, bands and mascots; interactive halftime shows; realistic stadiums; play-by-play commentary; and ten authentic Classics. For more information about BCFx, the latest game trailers, fight song ring-tones, behind-the-scenes video footage and the BCFx Road Show schedule, go to www.nerjyzed.com.

Labels: BCFx, Black College Football Experience, Nerjyzed Entertainment

FLAGSHIP STUDIOS TO INTEGRATE XFIRE FEATURES
IN THE HIGHLY ANTICIPATED PC GAME HELLGATE: LONDON

MTV Networks' Xfire Empowers PC Game Players To Quickly and Easily
Find Friends and Chat Online

Hellgate: London is the First Release to Include Xfire's In-Game
Voice Chat Capabilities

MENLO PARK, CA (September 4, 2007) - Xfire, eight million users strong and a division of Viacom Inc.'s (NYSE: VIA, VIA.B) MTV Networks, today announced the inclusion of their proprietary voice chat functionality in Flagship Studios' highly anticipated upcoming PC title, Hellgate: London. Using Xfire's peer-to-peer communication system, gamers have the ability to chat with fellow gamers without needing to manage a standalone voice server. Additionally, online game players will be able to log in to Xfire from within Hellgate: London, enabling them to easily add their friends and other Hellgate: London gamers into an Xfire voice chat room where they can chat as they play. Xfire supports more than 800 of the most popular games worldwide.

"By integrating Xfire's voice chat feature into Hellgate: London, we are able to strengthen our online community and make it even easier for our players to connect together online," said Tyler Thompson, Technical Director of Flagship Studios. "The Xfire package will bolster the overall gaming experience for our users."

"Working with Flagship Studios on HellGate: London has been tremendous," said Adam Boyden, General Manager of Xfire. "Not only will the game blow people away, but the seamless Xfire integration will enhance the gamer's overall experience and ease of play."

Flagship Studios, founded by the creators of the hugely popular Diablo franchise, stay true to their action-packed roots with their premier game, Hellgate: London. Set in the streets and undergrounds of a post-apocalyptic London, the game has been described as the spiritual successor to the Diablo series. Players can view the game from both first- and third-person perspective and arm themselves with over 100 magical and sci-fi weapons. Hellgate: London was designed with Flagship's philosophy of "random generation", which allows players countless hours of replayability as no two game play experiences are the same.

Xfire is a free, advertiser-supported product. In addition to the many friend tracking and multiplayer communication services, Xfire is also one of the largest hosts of online gaming events on the Internet. Xfire and its advertisers sponsor online events where members can play with pro gamers, join in online chats with celebrities and participate in machinima contests involving their favorite games.

Labels: Hellgate London, Xfire

EA’S MEDAL OF HONOR AIRBORNE SHIPS TO STORE SHELVES NATIONWIDE

As a Member of the 82nd Airborne Division the First Step is Everything

REDWOOD CITY, Calif., September 4, 2007 – Get ready to get airborne! Medal of Honor Airborne™, the latest installment from EA’s critically-acclaimed Medal of Honor™ franchise has shipped to store shelves across North America and the UK for the PC and Xbox 360™ videogame and entertainment system. The game will ship to retailers throughout Europe on September 7. Medal of Honor Airborne is set to redefine the series and will change the way shooters are played. Medal of Honor Airborne offers a dramatically different approach to FPS games with its unprecedented non-linear gameplay.

“In recreating the largest airdrops in history, Medal of Honor Airborne brings a dramatic change and opens up the FPS genre with the innovative airdrop experience," explained Patrick Gilmore, VP and Executive Producer at EALA. “Players have the ability to land anywhere on the battlefield, and choose their own tactics to achieve victory, delivering unprecedented variety and freedom to the combat experience.”

For the first time in a FPS game, players airdrop into combat from a C-47 and land anywhere in an open battlefield. The first step is everything and the player’s landing spot can dramatically change the course of battle. Conflict on the ground offers unprecedented tactical choice in vertical, open battle spaces with a wealth of attack routes and flanking opportunities.

The Medal of Honor Airborne development team continues to ensure that the ideals and integrity of the prestigious Congressional Medal of Honor are accurately reflected in the game. The producers sought counsel from numerous expert sources to make certain the game is historically accurate and as true to the WWII Airborne experience as possible.

Award-winning composer Michael Giacchino has scored the music for Medal of Honor Airborne. An esteemed composer for numerous film and TV projects such as “Lost”, “Alias,” M:i:III (2007), The Incredibles (2004), and most recently Ratatouille (2007), Giacchino has been repeatedly recognized for his contributions to theatrical composition and score. As the original composer and creator of the memorable theme music for the Medal of Honor series, he helped set the bar for using music to bring emotion into gaming. Giacchino’s extraordinary talents and musical sensibility have been utilized once again to bring a new dimension to the WWII FPS experience of Medal of Honor Airborne.

Developed at EA Los Angeles under the EA™ brand, Medal of Honor Airborne is rated ‘T’ for Teen by the ESRB, 16+ by PEGI, and 18+ by USK. The Xbox 360 version has a US MSRP of $59.99 and the PC version has a US MSRP of $49.99. Medal of Honor Airborne for the PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system will ship in November. For more information on Medal of Honor Airborne and the Medal of Honor franchise, please visit: www.moha.ea.com.

Labels: EA, Medal of Honor Airborne, PC, Xbox 360

UNDERCOVER: Operation Wintersun Now Shipping to Retail Stores

Haarlem, The Netherlands -- Sep 04, 2007 -- Leading publisher Lighthouse Interactive and dtp entertainment AG are proud to announce that their spy-thriller Adventure game UNDERCOVER: Operation Wintersun has begun shipping to retail stores across North America and Europe. The highly anticipated Windows® game on PC CD-ROM will be available at major retailers including: Wal-mart®, Fry's Electronics®, CompUSA® and Amazon®.

Lighthouse CEO Erik Schreuder said, "We are extremely proud to announce that UNDERCOVER: Operation Wintersun will soon be hitting store shelves. This is the first time players will have the opportunity to experience an Adventure game entirely set in World War 2 - a theme popular in other video game genres, but yet to be explored so deeply in an Adventure game." Schreuder went on to say, "This is a great game that allows players to go undercover to prevent the Nazi regime from building the World's first nuclear bomb. We are sure gamers around the World will enjoy the experience."

This third person perspective game with beautifully created 2D environments is no commonplace Adventure. It is best described as an enthralling point & click Adventure requiring stealth, cunning and puzzle solving skills, all set in Hitler's Germany. UNDERCOVER features a powerful spy-thriller theme with suspenseful situations. Although the story is purely fictitious, historical World War 2 facts remain highly authentic, establishing a compelling gameplay experience.

GAME SUMMARY:
In 1943, Hitler's Germany is performing scientific research on nuclear fission intending to produce nuclear energy, as well as devastating nuclear weaponry... Slip into the role of Dr. John Russell, a renowned British nuclear physicist who is hired by Britain's Secret Service MI6 to become an undercover agent. Your mission: prevent the Third Reich from building the World's first nuclear bomb. Embark on a dangerous and enthralling adventure that will have you looking over your shoulder and questioning who you can trust. Explore the heart of historic war-torn locations including: London, Berlin and Stalingrad, as you work with other Allied operatives to serve your country, the Crown, and defend the World from destruction.

FEATURES:

* Explore incredible vistas populated with ambient animations, dynamic weather effects, plus advanced lighting and shadows
* A variety of mini-games requiring quick wit and stealth adds depth to your gameplay experience
* Interact with plenty of characters integral to the elaborate character-driven plot
* Use your sharp observation skills to solve a multitude of challenging puzzles
* Highly realistic graphics combine with astonishing cinematics to create an immersive experience
* Mouse driven 3D real-time characters makes it simple to navigate

MINIMUM SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS:
OS: Windows® 98SE / ME / 2000 / XP
CPU: 1 GHz Intel® Pentium® processor or AMD® Athlon(tm) processor
RAM: 256 MB (512 MB recommended for Windows® XP)
Video: 64 MB DirectX® 9 support or better PC CD-ROM: 4x (or PC DVD-ROM drive)
Sound: DirectSound® compatible
Available Hard Disk Space: 2 GB
DirectX®: 9.0c
Other: Mouse, Keyboard and Speakers

To find out more about UNDERCOVER: Operation Wintersun and to keep up with the latest news on the game visit www.lighthouse-interactive.com and www.undercover-game.com.

Labels: Lighthouse Interactive, PC, Undercover Operation Wintersun

SIMS FANS EMBARK ON VACATION AS EA SHIPS THE SIMS 2 BON VOYAGE

Fans of the Popular Video Game Series Travel to Exotic Destinations with their Sims

REDWOOD CITY, Calif. — September 4, 2007 — Electronic Arts Inc., (NASDAQ: ERTS) today announced that fans of the critically-acclaimed PC game – The Sims™ 2 – can now experience all-new exotic destinations as they travel with their Sims! The Sims™ 2 Bon Voyage, which ships to store shelves today, is available as a PC expansion pack* building on the celebrated The Sims 2 experience. Fans can now whisk their Sims away on a variety of exciting trips to three exotic locations including the Far East, Mountain Getaway, and even a Tropical Paradise!

Whether your Sims are meditating in a pristine Zen garden in the Far East, enjoying an adventurous helicopter tour through the mountains, or relaxing in a luxury suite in the Tropics, they’ll enjoy a myriad of all-new activities to unwind and rejuvenate. From exploring ancient ruins and building sand castles to catching some rays after a boardwalk shopping spree, players can quickly transform their Sims from bumbling tourists to savvy international travelers. Sims will also learn new customs including local greetings and dances to take home and teach to their friends. With The Sims 2 Bon Voyage, players can send their Sims packing for the trip of a lifetime!

As your Sims travel, they’ll interact and learn from a variety of real and mythical locals including the wise old hermit, fire dancers -- even Big Foot! Like all true tourists, your Sims will be able to decorate their homes with unique souvenirs from their trips that are available only at destinations within The Sims 2 Bon Voyage. They can even buy unique jewelry to wear or take home as gifts! Fall in love with the hula dance lei from your Sims’ tropical beach vacation? Bring it back and flaunt to the neighbors! Love the moves your Sim mastered doing the Slap Dance at the rustic lodge? Teach fellow Sims the tricks of the trade back at home. What your Sims learn and collect is up to you!

“The Sims 2 players will be amazed by the amount of environments and activities that are offered in Bon Voyage. We have opened up a world of opportunity for your Sims to travel and expand their cultural horizons as well as relax and escape from their hectic everyday routines,” Studio Head of The Sims Label, Rod Humble states, “Whether your Sims are enjoying local treats on white sandy beaches, learning Tai Chi from experts in the Far East or honing their log-rolling skills at a rustic mountain camp– there’s always a new fun way to stay entertained in The Sims 2 Bon Voyage!”

The Sims 2 Bon Voyage will ship under the EA brand and is rated “T” for Teen by the ESRB. The game will ship August 31st in Europe and across the US as a PC expansion pack* that builds on the original The Sims 2 PC game experience.

For more information on The Sims 2 and The Sims 2 Bon Voyage, visit http://www.thesims2.com.

KEY FEATURES

· Travel to Three Exotic Destinations: Each location offers unique landscapes and local residents, such as the Fire Dancer and Ninja, for your Sims to meet and learn from. Try local cuisine and admire cultural landmarks as your Sims explore these new locales.

· Send Your Sims on Tours: Glass bottom boat rides, adventurous van tours, and other excursions are fun new activities for your Sims, but there may be some surprises in store!

· Buy or Find Unique Items: Shop for rare items found only on your Sims’ travels, including unique jewelry they can wear or take home as gifts. Stumble upon hidden locations, collect shells on the beach, or dig up treasure.

· Stay at New Travel Accommodations: Splurge on a luxury suite for your Sims or choose a cozy cabin. Your Sims will enjoy the comfort of room service, get pampered at the spa, and more.

Labels: EA, PC, Sims 2 Bon Voyage

EA AND BL PUBLISHING ANNOUNCE NOVEL BASED ON HIGHLY ANTICIPATED WARHAMMER ONLINE: AGE OF RECKONING

First Novel in New Series Explores Depth of the Fantasy MMORPG Game World

Fairfax, VA, – August 30, 2007 – Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ: ERTS) and BL Publishing, a division of Games Workshop, announced today that BL Publishing will release an original novel based on the highly anticipated MMORPG, Warhammer® Online: Age of Reckoning™ (WAR). The first book in the new series of novels set in the Age of Reckoning, EMPIRE IN CHAOS will be available in all major bookstores and on the BL Publishing website in early 2008.

In EMPIRE IN CHAOS, by noted Games Workshop author Anthony Reynolds, the lands of the Empire are being ravaged by a terrible plague. When Annaliese Jaeger's village is overrun and destroyed by mutants, she and an injured Elf captive are the only survivors. As the two unlikely companions fight their way towards Black Fire Pass, Annaliese discovers within herself powers of courage and faith that inspire all around her. With a grizzled Witch Hunter and a Dwarf Ironbreaker, the heroes battle alongside the armies of the Empire and the Dwarfs, above and below the earth, against greenskin tribes and the hordes of Chaos. Together, they must find their courage and help turn back the tides of darkness, lest all of the Empire be lost.

Mark Jacobs, VP and General Manager at EA Mythic commented, “We’re excited to be working with BL Publishing and Anthony Reynolds to bring our game to life and explore the rich depth of WAR’s epic story. BL Publishing has released many great novels set in Games Workshop’s Warhammer world and we are proud to have a book based on our game join the ranks of such notable works.”

Anthony Reynolds, the author of the novel remarked, “The Warhammer world is a grim place, full of horror, violence and dark humor, and the EA Mythic team have really brought that to life - faithfully creating a living, breathing, bellicose world being torn apart by constant warfare. It's the perfect backdrop for a novel. I'd been following the progress of the game for some time and it was easy to see that Warhammer Online: Age of Reckoning was going to be something special.”

For further information about the novel, EMPIRE IN CHAOS, visit www.blacklibrary.com.

Based on Games Workshop’s epic tabletop fantasy war game, Warhammer Online: Age of Reckoning features revolutionary Realm vs. Realm™ (RvR) game play and is scheduled for release on the PC in the first quarter of 2008. More than 400,000 players have signed up for the closed beta test in Europe and North America, making it one of the most popular beta tests in massively multiplayer gaming history. The Beta Center is still open and accepting applications at: https://betacenter.eamythic.com/signup.php.

For more information about Warhammer Online: Age of Reckoning, please visit www.warhammeronline.com.

Labels: EA, Warhammer Online

NHL 08 Demo Now Available on Xbox LIVE Marketplace

A full playable demo of NHL 08 for the Xbox 360 is now available on Xbox LIVE Marketplace. Play as the Anaheim Ducks or Ottawa Senators and experience videogame hockey at its best before it ships to a store near you. With unlimited control, unmatched depth and infinite possibilities, no game is ever the same with NHL 08. A PS3 downloadable demo is also coming soon to the PLAYSTATION® Store.

The game ships to retailers under the EA SPORTS brand on Tuesday, September 11. NHL 08 was developed by EA Canada and is rated “E10+” by the ESRB. The game’s official website is www.easports.com/nhl08/.

Labels: EA Sports, NHL 08

D3Publisher sent over their newest info and movies on their upcoming Wii title, Naruto Clash of Ninja Revolution, and I'm here to share!

NARUTO™: Clash of Ninja™ Revolution

FACT SHEET for Nintendo Wii™

NARUTO: Clash of Ninja Revolution is an original Nintendo Wii game exclusive to the North American Market. Based on the hit series currently airing on Cartoon Network, this first game for the Nintendo Wii released in North America will include characters that have never been featured in the Clash of Ninja game series. The game will follow the storyline of the television series and will take advantage of the Wii Remote™ in fast-paced ninja action for up to four players in nine different gameplay modes. The next generation in NARUTO games will also include all new character animations, new interactive environments and special mini-games created exclusively for the Wii Remote ™.

KEY FEATURES:

20 available characters – Among the available characters will be fan favorites such as Naruto, Sasuke or Sakura, but other characters will include some never seen before in the Clash of Ninja series. Plus, the characters will have all new animations for the Wii!

Battle it out in one of eight stages – Each of the eight stages will have two distinct combat zones that allow players to beat their opponent in one stage and then continue to pile on the punches as they transition to the next combat zone.

Exclusive content for North America – This game will include all new game effects, new interactive environments and all new special attack animations - exclusive for North America!

Various game modes - Game modes include: story mode, score attack, timed attack, survival, 2P Versus, 2P Score Attack, 2P Survival and 1-4 Multiplayer Versus.

Three special mini-games created especially for the Wii Remote – Shuriken Throw, Rasengan Training and Shadow Clone Trick.

Labels: d3publisher, naruto clash of ninja revolution, nintendo wii

ACTIVISION PUBLISHING TO DISTRIBUTE SCHOLASTIC TITLES FOR NINTENDO DS™

New York, NY - August 29, 2007 - Scholastic Media (SM) a leading producer of quality, family-oriented media including feature films, home video, TV and interactive products, and a division of Scholastic Inc., today announced a distribution agreement with Activision Publishing, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Activision, Inc (NASDAQ: ATVI) . Activision will distribute two new Scholastic developed Nintendo DS titles in North America -- I SPY™ Fun House and Animal Genius™. Both titles have a suggested retail price of $29.99 and have been rated "E" for Everyone by the ESRB. I SPY Fun House is available now and Animal Genius will be released in September.

"We are pleased to have Activision represent and distribute Scholastic's video games at retail," said Alan Waldman, SVP and General Manager, Interactive Products Group. "As one of the top video game publishers in the industry, Activision is in a great position to introduce I SPY Fun House and Animal Genius to the world of handheld gamers on the Nintendo DS platform."

"Scholastic is a worldwide leader in children's publishing and education and we are delighted to have the opportunity to team up with them on these games," said David Oxford, SVP for Activision Publishing, Inc. "I'm confident that the collaboration between Activision and Scholastic, will offer consumers exciting interactive entertainment experiences."

Labels: Acrtivision, Animal Genius, I SPY Fun House, Nintendo DS

GET READY TO HIT THE PLAYGROUND WITH EA THIS OCTOBER

It’s Play Time! EA’s New Intellectual Property Ships This Fall With An Exciting Variety of Games For All-Ages

Burnaby, Canada – August 29, 2007 – Electronic Arts (NASDAQ: ERTS) announced today that EA Playground™, an all new intellectual property in development at EA Canada, will be released for the Wii™ and Nintendo DS™ on October 23, 2007 in North America and on November 2, 2007 in Europe. The game, which will be available at an MSRP of $39.99 in the United States, will ship to retail stores packed with a fun assortment of playground games including classics like Dodgeball and Tetherball, as well as some over-the-top, fantasy games like Kicks and Dart Shootout.

“EA Playground has been designed to be accessible and fun, making it the perfect game to enjoy by yourself or with your friends and family,“ said Executive Producer, David McCarthy. “Young, old, male or female, this is a game that expands the appeal of videogames to a market of non-traditional gamers. For kids it’s about indulging in the energy and magic of the playground; for parents or even grandparents, it’s about re-experiencing childhood thrills.”

EA Playground offers endless hours of entertainment for all-ages. It is the ultimate party play experience, where bragging rights are at stake as you take on your friends and family in fun and immersive playground games. There’s also a deep single player campaign that has you in pursuit of the coveted Playground King title, where you’re exploring the world, unlocking new locations and challenging colorful in-game characters in a variety of activities.

EA Playground features games that are easy to pick-up-and-play by fully capitalizing on the unique control mechanics of both the Wii and the Nintendo DS. Included are featured games that can be enjoyed in both the single player and multiplayer mode. There are also activity games that are played throughout the single player campaign to earn power-ups and collectables. Every game brings its own twist to the controls for the definitive, all-ages, gaming experience. See below for all the games that will be included in EA Playground.

Featured playground games on the Wii:

· Dodgeball - Take on your opponents in an attempt to knock them out of the game in this fast paced multi round experience. Up to four players can dodge, catch and throw lighting fast balls just like in real life.

· Paper Racers - Throw and navigate your paper airplane through challenging Playground courses, collecting power ups and other bonuses along the way in a race to the finish line.

· Kicks - Take on your opponents in this fresh new experience where Soccer meets volleyball and goals are the result of spectacular aerial kicks!

· Dart Shootout - Test your accuracy skills in this exciting game that has your shooting and ducking your way through the playground to the final boss battle.

· Wall Ball - Enjoy this fast paced game of wall ball where the speed of the ball increases with each powerful shot. Strategically choose where you want to hit the ball and watch it rapidly ricochet by your opponent!

· Slot Car Racing - Take on up to three opponents in this speedy slot car racing experience that has you flying through ramps, landing mega jumps and even getting a chance to zap your opponents off course!

· Tetherball - Go head to head against your opponents in this tension mounting experience. Try to wrap the tetherball around the pole before your opponent does.

Activity games for the Wii:

· Freethrows - While exploring the playground world, take some time out to shoot around and earn marbles.

· Bug Hunt - During your world exploration if you see a bug, take out your net and give chase. Successfully swat and catch the bug and earn some rewards.

· Dribbling – Pick up a basketball and bounce it in rhythm for a defined number of times before the clock runs out on you! If you’re successful you’ll earn yourself some more marbles.

Featured playground games on the Nintendo DS:

· Dodgeball - Knock all the other kids out of the game (by beaning them with a ball) before they do the same to your team.

· Hoops - Become the master of the basketball court while you try and score the most points.

· Hopscotch - Test your rhythm and timing with this musical game of Hopscotch.

· RC Racers - Race mini cars around an action-packed track, picking up valuable power-ups along the way.

· Bug Hunt - You’re on a mission to collect as many butterflies as you can but watch out for those nasty bees or you’ll get stung!

· Kicks - A free for all Soccer match where the objective is to score more points than your opponent

· Skate & Sketch - Master these wacky tricks by connecting the dots as fast as possible.

· Spitballs - Search the playground for your target and when you’ve found them blow into the microphone to hit them with a spitball!

· Trampoline - The sky’s the limit in this game of balloon popping! Jump as high as you can and pop as many balloons as possible before your opponent

EA Playground is rated E for Everyone by the ESRB with a descriptor for Mild Cartoon Violence in North America and is rated 3+ by PEGI in Europe.

Labels: EA, EA Playground

EA’S BLOCKBUSTER RACING FRANCHISE SPEEDS INTO STORES THIS OCTOBER

Prove Yourself On the Highest Level of Street Racing Competition Against the World’s Best Racers

Vancouver, Canada – August 29, 2007 – Electronic Arts (NASDAQ: ERTS) announced today that Need for Speed™ ProStreet, the latest version of the blockbuster franchise, will hit stores in North America on October 31 and across Europe on November 1, 2007. In Need for Speed ProStreet, you have to build the ultimate battle machine, take it to multi-disciplinary showdowns and pit your skills and reputation against the world’s best street racers. This is your chance to prove that you have what it takes to be crowned the next street king.

“The Need for Speed franchise has always been on the cutting edge of car culture,” said Executive Producer, Larry LaPierre. “Street racing is getting more organized and Need for Speed ProStreet is our interpretation of where we anticipate the culture to be in three to five years. We’re delivering on the ultimate proving ground, bringing you out of your neighborhood back alleys and on to the world stage. This is a next-gen game, packed with the raw intensity and visceral aggression that defines street racing at the highest level.”

Need for Speed ProStreet is a racing experience like no other. For the first time, you’re designing and building a car, competing in iconic locations from around the globe and battling in four distinct racing styles– grip, drag, drift and the all-new speed challenge. The atmosphere is electric – complete with energetic crowds, photo-realistic vehicles and billowing smoke – all designed to embody the pressure and intensity of the gladiatorial challenge known as Show Down. Need for Speed ProStreet is the realization of the power, aggression and rivalry that embodies street racing culture.

Need for Speed ProStreet will be available for Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system, PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system, and Wii™ as well as the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, Nintendo DS™, PC and mobile. More information can be found at www.needforspeed.com.

Labels: EA, Need For Speed ProStreet

NEW MYST ONLINE EPISODE DEBUTS ON SEPTEMBER 8^th

“Deception” episode includes the launch of new city areas and more political intrigue

GameTap is launching “Deception,” the newest episode in Myst Online: Uru Live this Saturday, September 8th. Players can continue the journey that has already featured all-new puzzles, all-new Ages, and brand new storylines.

Despite the ongoing battles of the Bahro and the threat of the coming war, the D’ni Restoration Council (DRC) continues its efforts to introduce a Guild system into the cavern. Toward that cause, new Guild pubs are introduced, providing Guild members with new areas to congregate and socialize.

Meanwhile, Phil Henderson continues to spread information regarding the Bahro and their conflicts as a former DRC member returns to the cavern. What new information does he have to share and will it lead to salvation or destruction?

Unlike other MMOs, player interactions in Myst Online affect the game in amazing ways. Many of the DRC’s recent decisions regarding the implementation of the Guild system have involved the recommendations of a player Explorer named Reteltee. Additionally, in this episode, players will be able to enjoy a display of the outstanding entries of user-created stained glass art.

Be sure to join in now as this episode serves as a lead-in to the Myst Online: Uru Live Season Finale in October.

To keep up to date with the latest news and art assets for Myst Online: Uru Live and to play the game for free visit, www.mystonline.com.

Check out the new trailer for Sam and Max Season 2 and after that,

jump down and check out a gameplay video!

Labels: PC, Sam and Max Season 2

WARNER BROS. INTERACTIVE ENTERTAINMENT PRESENTS

PROJECT ORIGIN

Fans have named the sequel to Monolith’s hit game F.E.A.R.

Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment will publish Project Origin, the videogame sequel to the hit game F.E.A.R., developed by Monolith Productions for the Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system and Games for Windows®. The name was chosen by the fans, as they submitted entries and then voted for the winning submission.

“Project Origin is the name we can stand behind since it was picked by the gaming community, and this game marks a new beginning for the franchise,” says Samantha Ryan, Senior Vice President, Production and Development, Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment. “With the consoles and the PC, we’re dedicated to add a new game dynamic to the universe and build upon what the players loved about the original game.”

"Our team really enjoyed letting the fans drive the naming process, and we are excited to expand upon the work we began in the original game and establish Project Origin as a premier gaming franchise in its own right," said Troy Skinner, Producer, Monolith Productions.

The sequel will continue the original game’s spine-tingling supernatural suspense story of an escalating paranormal crisis that threatens to destroy a major American city. At the center of the calamity is the mysterious Alma, whose rage against those who wronged her triggered a chain of events that have spiraled completely out of control. Now that she has free reign, the consequences will be unimaginable.

CHICAGO, IL - September 5, 2007 - Midway Games Inc. (NYSE: MWY), a leading interactive entertainment publisher and developer today announced that Stranglehold™, for the Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, is now shipping to retail outlets nationwide. Featuring duel-wielding, stunt-laden gameplay, incredible environmental destruction and a multiplayer experience that brings all the intense action online, Stranglehold is available for a U.S. suggested retail price of $59.99 for Xbox 360. The Xbox 360 collector's edition is available for a U.S. suggested retail price of $69.99. Stranglehold is scheduled to be available for PC on September 18 and the PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system on September 25 for a U.S. suggested retail price of $49.99 and $59.99, respectively. The PS3 collector's edition will feature the game and a full-length version of John Woo's critically acclaimed action film "Hard Boiled" both on the same high-capacity PlayStation 3 Blu-ray disc, for a suggested retail price of $69.99.

"Stranglehold marks a significant milestone in Midway's commitment to developing and publishing high-quality, triple-A products," said Steve Allison, chief marketing officer, Midway. "The game not only delivers the intense, cinematic gunplay that acclaimed action director John Woo is known for, but completely redefines what action gaming is all about."

Stranglehold's high-action, intense and cinematic gameplay has been met with critical acclaim from some of the industry's most respected media outlets:

• "the most high-profile crime game coming out this year." - Associated Press
• "This is stylized violence at its finest." - Stuff
• "The game is rife with Woo's filmmaking touches" USA Today
• "Stepping into Chow's shoes and pulling of Woo's trademark run-and-gun stunts make for a concentrated blast of adrenaline-fueled chaos." - Washington Post
• "Riveting action gameplay." - Yahoo! Games
• "This is a full throttle balls-to-the wall shooter." - IGN
• "The game is ripe with more awesomeness than Gears of War and Rainbow Six Vegas put together" - Gamepro.com
• IGN Best Action Game of E3 - Runner Up
• "a fully playable, kickass action movie." - Spin

WII™ TAKES THE CASE – HARVEY BIRDMAN: ATTORNEY AT LAW™ COMES HOME TO ROOST ON THE LATEST NINTENDO VIDEO GAME SYSTEM

SAN MATEO, Calif — Sept. 4, 2007 — Capcom, a leading worldwide developer and publisher of video games, announced today that Harvey Birdman: Attorney at Law™ is now coming to the Wii™ video game system from Nintendo. The Wii version of Harvey joins the previously announced PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system and PSP® (PlayStation® Portable) system versions of the game. The Wii version of Harvey Birdman: Attorney at Law will carry a suggested retail price of $39.99, while the PS2 and PSP versions will have an SRP of $29.99. Harvey Birdman: Attorney at Law will be available for all three platforms on November 13.

Harvey Birdman: Attorney at Law is a fully animated interactive adventure game that merges the fun and mayhem of the popular Adult Swim TV show with Capcom’s unique style of gameplay. Players will step into the shiny wingtips of Harvey Birdman, a third-rate superhero turned third-rate defense attorney charged with exonerating parodied classic cartoon characters.

Over the course of the game, players must guide Harvey through a series of odd and comical cases. Each of the game's five interactive stories takes the winged crusader of justice to familiar locations from the TV show. In order to prove his client’s innocence, Harvey must peruse the scene of the crime, gather evidence, talk with other cartoon characters, occasionally have drinks with opposing council, and of course, tear holes – no matter how ridiculous – in the testimony provided by the witness for the prosecution. Harvey must bring the whole story together to defend his client in a court where anything can happen… including a confrontation with the prosecution who brandishes a Shrink Ray Gun. With outrageous gameplay and the comical antics of hilarious animated characters, players and fans alike will feel that they are not just taking control of a character, but actually taking part in a brand new episode of Harvey Birdman.

Key features

* Sleuth your way through five uproarious all new court cases

* Experience fully animated gameplay and voice-over dialogue

* Enjoy the vocal talents of series regulars like Gary Cole, Lewis Black, Peter MacNicol, John Michael Higgins and more

* Visit and explore familiar locales from the show

* Interact with favorite series characters - let Mentok take your mind! Get shrunk by Reducto! Avoid Phil Ken Sebben's quadruple entendres!

* Investigate and collect evidence for courtroom battles with semi-private prosecutors

* Press, confront and break witnesses for your chance to reveal lies and scintillating secrets

* For Wii version, players will be able to point and aim their way through the cases, using the Wii Remote

Labels: Capcom, Harvey Birdman Attorney at Law, nintendo wii

The Countdown to Crysis Continues:
Single Player Demo - 9.25.07

PC gamers now have a reason to mark a big circle around September 25th on their calendars as the single player demo for Crysis will be lighting up rigs worldwide in just 30 days.

Consisting of the entire first level in Crysis’ epic single player campaign, “Contact,” gamers will get to finally experience first-hand the stunning visuals, revolutionary Nanosuit gameplay and open-ended level design that make Crysis one of the most anticipated shooters and PC games of all time. The demo is also poised to include a huge surprise from Crytek, but for now you’ll just have to wait and check out the latest Crysis Nanosuit trailer by following the link below.

Crysis is coming off award-winning showings at the German Games Convention, picking up Best PC Game of GC honors from the panel of experts judging the show and from E3, where it also won the Game Critics Awards Best PC Game of E3 2007. The countdown to Crysis ends on November 16, 2007.

For more Crysis news, stay tuned to http://www.nanosuit.com/.

Labels: Crysis, EA

MINNEAPOLIS, MN – August 24, 2007 – Scrabble and Mahjong meet to create a hard-to-resist puzzle sensation in WordJong, which is already one of the best-selling downloadable games online. Now the Nintendo DS™ version from Destineer makes this smash hit even better with DS-exclusive features like Daily Mode, Temple Challenge Mode, Local Wireless and Nintendo® Wi-Fi Connection multiplayer, and more!

WordJong features simple, yet engrossing gameplay: Use a set of lettered tiles to create words, clearing the board as you use tiles. Shoot for high-scoring words, earn bonus tiles, and attempt to clear the board with no leftover letters. WordJong boasts several new features exclusive to the Nintendo DS system, including:

Solo Play: Play through one of three highly addictive game modes. Choose a puzzle from the calendar and try to beat the computer’s high score in Daily Mode. Accumulate rank medals as you climb your way to the top in Temple Challenge Mode. Or, defeat each of the seven AI characters in head-to-head battles in Tournament Mode.

Multiplayer Modes: Go head-to-head with a friend over Local Wireless, or connect to the internet via Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection and take on players from around the world. Have a friend without the game? Use the DS Download Play option to gift a puzzle or play head-to-head using just one game!

Zodiac Characters: Take on stylized characters from the Chinese zodiac throughout all of the game modes. Each of the seven characters has his or her own personality and play style, representing a different difficulty level ranging from easy (the Rabbit) to hard (the Dragon).

Additional Features: WordJong features a 100,000+ word dictionary, loads of challenges and awards to acquire, full support for both the Control Pad and Touch Screen, and much, much more!

WordJong is developed by Magellan Interactive from an original design by Gameblend Studios, and is scheduled for an October 2007 release, with a MSRP of $19.99. For more information, please visit http://www.destineerstudios.com/.

Labels: Destineer, Nintendo DS, WordJong

Cultivate Your Ideal Farm in the Palm of Your Hand!

Destineer Announces “John Deere: Harvest in the Heartland” for Nintendo DS™

MINNEAPOLIS, MN – August 24, 2007 – Get ready to transform a piece of the Heartland into a completely unique, fully functional farm! Destineer announces John Deere: Harvest in the Heartland, a “hands-on” real-time farming game for the Nintendo DS that joins Destineer’s series of popular John Deere games, which have already sold over a half a million units.

Craft virgin soil into a profitable, prize winning, and picturesque farm, all through an intuitive Touch Screen interface. Use the Nintendo DS stylus to work the land, pick crops, milk cows, and more. Prepare crops and livestock to earn cash, improve your farm, and purchase land, livestock, and authentic John Deere equipment. Neglect the farm and you will reap what you sow.

Make It Your Way: Use the touch screen and stylus to work the land into the farm of your dreams. Place fields and buildings where you want them. Use the top screen to monitor your farm with the mini-map and check on the status of crops and livestock with the Query Tool. Cheer as your farm thrives or cry as negligence dashes your dreams to dust. As your farm grows, so do your customization choices.

Get Your Hands Dirty: Use the stylus to clear land, plant and harvest crops, and drive authentic John Deere equipment. Paint your barn and create a unique logo for your farm which identifies you at the Commodities Market. Feed, care for, and harvest products from animals in your farm through a variety of fun and intuitive stylus actions.

The Commodities Market and County Fair: Raise crops and livestock for sale at the daily Commodities Market; reinvest money earned from the sale of crops and animal products to upgrade your John Deere equipment and make your farm more efficient and more profitable. Or, enter your products and livestock in “best of” contests at the County Fair for prizes and notoriety.

John Deere: Harvest in the Heartland is scheduled for a November 2007 release, with a MSRP of $29.99. For more information, please visit www.destineerstudios.com.

Labels: Destineer, John Deere Harvest in the Heartland, Nintendo DS

Check out this new trailer for The Simpsons Game titled "Medal of Homer!"

Labels: EA, The Simpsons Game

EA sent over their most recent screens and fact sheet for their upcoming game based The Simpsons. Check them out!

Labels: EA, The Simpsons Game