The Beatles™: Rock Band™ set to descend down-under
- Pricing, availability and dates confirmed for Beatlemania to hit New Zealand -
20 August 2009, New Zealand – Harmonix Music Systems, the leading developer of music-based games, and MTV Games, a part of Viacom’s MTV Networks (NYSE: VIA, VIA.B), along with distribution partner Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ: ERTS) have confirmed that The Beatles™: Rock Band™ will hit New Zealand shores on the 9 September 2009 as previously announced, in keeping with the worldwide simultaneous release date.
The Beatles: Rock Band Limited Edition Premium Bundle (including a large scale replica of the Höfner bass controller famously used by Sir Paul McCartney, a Ringo Starr inspired and Ludwig-branded Rock Band 2 drum set, microphone, microphone stand, game software and special game accessories) will be available for PlayStation®3, Xbox 360® and Wii™ for NZ$399.99 through all leading game retailers.
Furthermore, The Beatles: Rock Bandsoftware (which can be used with existing all Rock Band instrument controllers, as well as most Guitar Hero® and other authorised third-party music video game peripherals and microphones) will be made available via all leading game retailers nationwide on PlayStation®3 and Xbox 360® for NZ$99.99 and Wii™ for NZ$79.99.
With fans across the country already gearing up for the true ‘Limited Edition’ experience, pre-ordering is already taking place, and is recommended for enthusiasts wanting to avoid disappointment.
The Beatles: Rock Band allows New Zealand fans to pick up the guitar, bass, mic or drums to experience The Beatles’ extraordinary catalogue of music through gameplay that takes players on a journey through the legacy and evolution of the band’s legendary career. From the early touring days in 1963 Liverpool to the immortal, final performance on the Apple Corps rooftop, fans can follow in The Fab Four’s footsteps as they traverse the globe during the height of Beatlemania.
For the first time in a music videogame, The Beatles: Rock Band introduces three-part vocal harmonies to gameplay, allowing players to revel in the unparalleled vocal stylings of The Beatles.
As previously announced, the entire Abbey Road album will be available for future download purchase. In addition, “All You Need Is Love” will be released Sept.9, 2009, exclusively through Xbox LIVE for a limited time as a downloadable song for The Beatles: Rock Band, with all Apple Corps Ltd, MTV Games, Harmonix and Microsoft proceeds benefitting Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF).
In conjunction with the release of the entire, original, digitally re-mastered Beatles CD catalogue, The Beatles: Rock Band will be available Sept. 9, 2009, simultaneously worldwide in North America, Europe, Australia, New Zealand and other territories for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system from Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. (SCEI), and the Wii™ system from Nintendo. The game will be compatible with all Rock Band instrument controllers, as well as most Guitar Hero® and other authorized third-party music video game peripherals and microphones.
The Beatles: Rock Band marks the first time that Apple Corps, along with EMI Music, Harrisongs Ltd, and Sony/ATV Music Publishing, has agreed to present The Beatles music in an interactive video game format. The Beatles: Rock Band will be published by MTV Games and developed by Harmonix, the world’s premier music video game company and creators of the best-selling Rock Band. Electronic Arts (NASDAQ: ERTS) will serve as distribution partner for the game. In addition, Giles Martin, co-producer of The Beatles innovative LOVE album project, is providing his expertise and serving as Music Producer for this groundbreaking Beatles project.
Posted by Dee-Zilla on Thursday, August 20, 2009 @ 17:58:35 New Zealand Standard Time
Game News: EA Reveals The Sims 3 World Adventures
EA REVEALS THE SIMS 3 WORLD ADVENTURES
First Expansion Pack to Global Phenomenon - The Sims 3
Auckland, NZ - August 4, 2009 – The Sims are off on an adventure to famous destinations around the world! The EA Play Label of Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ: ERTS) today announced that The Sims™ 3 World Adventures, the first expansion pack* to the #1 best-selling PC and MAC game in June 2009**, The Sims 3, is in development and will ship to retailers in New Zealand on November 20, 2009.
“We’re thrilled with the global success of The Sims 3 over these last few months and are looking forward to expanding on the gameplay experience with one of the most robust expansion packs to The Sims yet,” said Scott Evans, General Manager of The Sims at EA. “Players will be able to take their Sims on the adventure of a lifetime and explore lands outside of Sunset Valley and Riverview, pursue thrilling new life destinies in locations around the world inspired by famous destinations, and immerse themselves in the open-ended gameplay where they’ll discover new cities in China, France and Egypt and share new stories.”
Players can take their Sims on new journeys to famous real-world inspired destinations around the globe for the first time ever and seek out new adventures. While exploring the landmarks of an exotic city, there is no telling what the Sims will find. From mastering martial arts in Shang Simla, China, discovering rich culture and famous landmarks on a romantic getaway to Champs Les Sims, France or exploring the depths of ancient tombs in Al Simhara, Egypt, players can take their Sims on a journey that will change their Sims’ lives. Players can accept challenges to search for secret treasures, learn new skills and chase down new personal opportunities, meet new Sims with unique personalities, share their culture and bring them home, discover new styles on their travels, and share everything they encounter on their adventures with the world through personal photographs, movies, and stories. Additionally, players will receive 1,000 SimPoints to be used online in The Sims 3 Store*** for the PC/MAC versions of the game. Exclusive online content, available only for the expansion pack at launch, will be revealed soon.
The Sims 3 World Adventures will also be available for feature phones, the iPhone™ and iPod touch® in early 2010 from EA Mobile™. These versions will have customized mobile gameplay features which will be revealed in the coming months. For information on carrier availability and pricing for all EA Mobile games, please visitwww.eamobile.com.
For more information about The Sims 3 World Adventures or The Sims 3, please visit www.TheSims3.com. Developed by The Sims Studio, The Sims 3World Adventures has not yet been rated by the ESRB. To download artwork, please visit www.info.ea.com.
*Requires The Sims 3 for PC/MAC to play.
**According to NPD data.
**INTERNET CONNECTION REQUIRED, see product pack or digital distribution rules for details
Posted by Dee-Zilla on Tuesday, August 04, 2009 @ 15:51:55 New Zealand Standard Time
Game News: Don’t Phunk with my Lips: Number One Hits
Don’t Phunk with my LipsTM: Number One Hits
Lady Gaga, Kanye West, Mariah Carey and more join the line-up for “Lips: Number One Hits”
plus a five-song pack of your choice for free download from Xbox LIVE
One of the most incredible collections of the world’s hottest number one songs is set to launch this November. Get the crowd singing and the party started with “Lips: Number One Hits,” the newest game in the “Lips” singing franchise exclusively for Xbox 360. Show off your singing skills with friends, harmonise in a duet or belt out those high notes to a diverse collection of 40 global smash hits, spanning genres, generations and countries so that even the pickiest of singers can find their unique pitch.
Available worldwide this November, “Lips: Number One Hits” features popular songs that have graced the number one position on major global charts. Joining previously announced hits from Coldplay, Rihanna, Tokio Hotel, Timbaland feat. OneRepublic, Extreme, Culture Club, Marvin Gaye, Roy Orbison and MC Hammer, the full catalogue also includes:
Just Dance by Lady Gaga feat. Colby O’Donis (U.S.): The debut song of this theatrical pop singer became an international smash hit
The Fear by Lily Allen (U.K.): From her second album, this song is the artist’s social commentary about the dark side of celebrity and consumer culture
Don’t Phunk With My Heart by Black Eyed Peas (U.S.): Influenced by Indian music, this song sampled the Bollywood cult hit film “Don,” a movie about a man posing as the leader of a gang of international smugglers
I’m Yours by Jason Mraz (U.S.): While this artist’s music has appeared on the charts since 2003, this single is his first chart-topping hit
Hey There Delilah by Plain White T’s (U.S.): This song was written as an ode to a girl named Delilah that the band’s singer met only once by chance in NYC
I Don’t Feel Like Dancin’ by Scissor Sisters (U.S.): This song was written with the legendary artist Elton John and features his piano playing in the melody
California Love by 2Pac feat. Dr. Dre and Roger Troutman (U.S.): This song earned the late rapper a posthumous Grammy nomination for Best Rap Performance, Duo or Group in 1997
Barbie Girl by Aqua (Denmark): A breakthrough international hit, this song featured the band’s lead singers as the toy couple Barbie and Ken in the music video
Everybody Wants to Rule the World by Tears for Fears (U.K.): This successful single was written and recorded in two weeks
Heartless by Kanye West (U.S.): This is the first single in “pop art” music, a new genre which West describes as making pop music in an "artistic" way
Touch My Body by Mariah Carey (U.S.): This song was Carey's 18th number one on the U.S. singles charts, which pushed her into second place behind the Beatles as the artist with the most chart-topping singles
Always On My Mind by Pet Shop Boys (U.K.): The Daily Telegraph’s music critics ranked the band's cover of this Brenda Lee song as number 2 of the all-time best cover songs
Push the Button by Sugababes (U.K.): This song was the girl group’s fourth number one single in the U.K. and topped the Eurochart Hot 100 Singles
In addition to the huge variety of songs available on disc, “Lips” fans will be able customise their “Number One Hits” set list with a theme pack of their choice containing five additional songs, available to download for free on Xbox LIVE. This winter, singers can help decide what themes will be available for “Lips: Number One Hits” by voting for their favourite themes at http://www.xbox.com/en-NZ/games/l/lipsnumber1hits/
“Lips: Number One Hits” and the original “Lips” game combine to create the ultimate singing party, with more songs to keep the fun rocking all night long. But for singers with an insatiable appetite for variety, Xbox LIVE Marketplace has a vast library of tunes that can be downloaded for both titles. New tracks of all genres and artist-specific songs packs are added regularly each week, so personal catalogues can keep growing and growing. “Lips,” combined with the power of Xbox LIVE, makes Xbox 360 the best destination for music game fans.
“Lips,” Xbox 360’s first exclusive singing party game from iNiS, launched November 2008. The second title, “Lips: Number One Hits,” launches this October 2009. More information on “Lips” is available at http://www.xbox.com/en-NZ/games/l/lipsnumber1hits/.
Posted by Dee-Zilla on Friday, July 31, 2009 @ 16:01:30 New Zealand Standard Time
Game News: Forza Motorsport 3 Limited Collector’s Edition
Forza Motorsport 3 Limited Collector’s Edition details revealed
October 23, 2009 will mark the launch of “Forza Motorsport 3” in Australia and New Zealand, exclusively on Xbox 360. With more than 400 cars on over 100 tracks, the next game in the heralded series will be the biggest and most vividly realistic console racing title launching this year. And while all “Forza Motorsport 3” players will get to experience the bone-jarring physics, unparalleled levels of customisation, and epic car and track list, fans who purchase the Limited Collector’s Edition will find even more goodies under the hood.
The “Forza Motorsport 3” Limited Collector’s Edition (LCE) gives aspiring drivers, tuners and painters instant VIP Membership status within the Forza community including special recognition in the new Storefront feature as well as the online Auction House, scoreboards, ForzaMotorsport.net and more.
As a VIP member, consumers gain exclusive access to five of the world’s hottest cars:
·2009 Aston Martin DBS
· 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1
· 2007 Ferrari 430 Scuderia
· 2007 Lamborghini Gallardo Superleggera
· 2007 Porsche 911 GT3 RS (997)
If you crave cars, you won’t want to miss another perk of the “Forza Motorsport 3” LCE – an Exclusive Collector’s Car Pack, personally hand-picked, tuned and painted by the team at Turn 10:
· Audi R8 5.2 FSI Quattro (Forza Motorsport 3 Cover Car)
· Acura NSX (Forza Motorsport Cover Car)
· Nissan Fairlady (Forza Motorsport 2 Cover Car)
· Aston Martin DB9 (Forza Motorsport 2 European Cover Car)
· 2008 Dodge Charger Stock Car (with Xbox 360 livery)
In addition to the exclusive cars, Turn 10 also plans to create a series of new and exclusive designs and tuning kits exclusively for VIPs. To show off your true “Forza Motorsport” pride and prowess, consumers also receive a “Forza Motorsport 3” collector’s keychain and a 2GB USB thumbdrive in which you can store your favourite “Forza” videos, photos and designs to easily share them with friends.
Posted by Dee-Zilla on Tuesday, July 28, 2009 @ 20:25:25 New Zealand Standard Time
Game News: Halo Universe breaks new ground
“Halo” Universe breaks new ground with unveiling of “Halo Legends” anime project
Microsoft teams up with top anime studios to create a collection of original short films that taker the “Halo” franchise to a new frontier.
A renowned set of storytellers from some of the world’s leading anime studios in Japan are about to take one of the most iconic franchises in science fiction and video games to a new level. Microsoft Corp., in collaboration with some of the most acclaimed anime creators, today unveiled a new project called “Halo Legends,” which will bring the “Halo” franchise and its sweeping sci-fi saga to an entirely new medium, in the form of several original anime short films.
“Halo Legends,” which will officially debut at a panel presentation today at Comic-Con International in San Diego, is being produced by Microsoft’s 343 Industries and features creative direction from anime pioneer Shinji Aramaki, director of the critically acclaimed “Appleseed” and “Appleseed EX Machina” anime features, and Mamoru Oshii, director of the landmark “Ghost in the Shell” movies, with additional production from Joseph Chou of J-Spec Pictures. The compilation will include a series of short stories that explore different times, themes and characters from the “Halo” universe and will be distributed globally by Warner Home Video, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. company. Influential studios that are part of the project include the creators behind some of the most popular and celebrated anime to come from Japan, such as “The Animatrix,” “Cowboy Bebop,” “Fullmetal Alchemist,” “Ghost in the Shell,” “Dragon Ball” and more.
“The opportunity to work with talents such as Shinji Aramaki, Mamoru Oshii and others from some of the greatest anime studios is a very rare opportunity for Microsoft,” said Frank O’Connor, “Halo” franchise development director and provider of story and creative direction for 343 Industries. “We’ve seen the world through Master Chief’s eyes, and we’ve experienced facets of the universe through a variety of literary prisms, but now we get to watch new tales unfold in really rich, visually dynamic ways. I think anime fans and ‘Halo’ fans alike are in for a real treat.”
Set hundreds of years in the future, the “Halo” series of games and novels chronicle mankind’s struggles against an alien collective known as the Covenant. The Covenant is scouring the universe for relics it believes will lead it to a new life and is destroying civilisations and planets that stand in its way. The most prolific hero from the fiction is a super soldier or Spartan known as Master Chief, who is the main protagonist in the original trilogy of Xbox and Xbox 360 “Halo” titles. In the trilogy, Master Chief discovers that the Covenant is intent on activating a series of mysterious ring worlds known as “Halos,” which would ultimately exterminate life throughout the universe. He becomes mankind’s champion in a race against an unrelenting enemy in its most desperate hour. Through best-selling novels, comics and additional Xbox 360 games such as “Halo Wars” and the upcoming “Halo 3: ODST,” the universe has grown and tales of other heroes have emerged.
“‘Halo’ and its characters are a very natural fit for anime,” said Aramaki, creative director for the “Halo Legends” project. “As a fan of the ‘Halo’ universe, it is an honour to work with Microsoft and my very talented peers from other studios to create this collection.”
Studios involved in the “Halo Legends” project include Bones Inc., Casio Entertainment Inc., Production I.G, STUDIO4¢ªC and Toei Animation.
Bones. Founded in 1998, Bones has become one of the top animation studios in Japan in less than a decade. The studio is best known for its incredible body of work on mega-hit franchises such as “Cowboy Bebop: The Movie,” “Fullmetal Alchemist,” “Sword of the Stranger” and “Eureka Seven.”
Casio Entertainment. Casio Entertainment was founded in 2004 and is renowned for its visual effects work on the movie “Dai Nipponjin” (“Big Man of Japan”), which was officially invited to the 2007 Cannes Film Festival and nominated for Best Visual Effects at the 2008 Asian Film Awards. Casio Entertainment is also known for its computer-generated animation support work on several top Japanese video games.
Production I.G. Production I.G has produced a number of acclaimed feature films, original video animation, TV shows and video games. For their storytelling and quality of animation, “Ghost in the Shell,” “Jin-Roh: The Wolf Brigade” and “Blood: The Last Vampire” have earned critical accolades in Japan and all around the world. “Ghost in the Shell 2: Innocence,” directed by Mamoru Oshii in 2004, was the first Japanese animation feature ever to compete for the Palme d’Or at the Festival de Cannes.
STUDIO4C. STUDIO4 is one of the top animation studios in Japan. Founded by the industry veteran Eiko Tanaka and acclaimed animation artist Koji Morimoto, it has become globally known for its uncanny ability to marry the spirit of high art with mainstream anime aesthetic. STUDIO4C is known for works including “The Animatrix,” “Tekkonkinkreet” and “Batman: Gotham Knight.”
Toei Animation. Toei Animation, established in 1956, is the oldest animation studio in Japan. Toei has produced the largest number of global hit TV anime series for kids, such as “Dragon Ball,” “Digimon,” “Sailor Moon,” “One Piece” and many more.
The complete “Halo Legends” collection will be distributed by Microsoft partner Warner Home Video, which will have more to announce on its release and distribution plans soon.
“As a leading entertainment distributor and a company identified with premier anime content, we’re very pleased to be working with Microsoft on ‘Halo Legends,’” said Amit Desai, vice president, Family, Animation and Partner Brands Marketing, Warner Home Video. “The combination of the talent involved and the ‘Halo’ brand ensure the collection is something consumers are really going to enjoy.”
A preview of select “Halo Legends” episodes will first debut on Xbox LIVE, the largest gaming and entertainment network in the world through a new experience called Halo Waypoint.
Launching later this year, Halo Waypoint will be a new destination for “Halo” fans on Xbox LIVE around the world. It will inform fans of the latest “Halo” news and activities, and grant access to content ranging from podcasts, trailers and screenshots, to exclusive video footage you won’t find anywhere else. It also will provide a new challenge for “Halo” gamers with a career system and player rankings tied to both in-game and out-of-game accomplishments related to “Halo.” In addition to the limited, early episode premieres, Halo Waypoint will debut several behind-the-scenes videos that chronicle the making of “Halo Legends.”
Posted by Dee-Zilla on Tuesday, July 28, 2009 @ 20:22:50 New Zealand Standard Time
Game News: Le Mans Circuits to Debut in Forza Motorsport 3
Le Mans Circuits to Debut in Forza Motorsport 3
AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND – JUNE 16, 2009 – October 2009 sees the introduction of the eagerly awaited “Forza Motorsport 3”, giving fans the ultimate driving simulation with more than 100 race cars and previously unseen tracks on offer.
Petrol-heads will be able to experience first hand the winding corners and speedy straights of Le Mans, one of the oldest and most prestigious endurance races in the world. The famed Le Mans, Le Sarthe and Bugatti circuits debut in the next instalment of the hugely popular Forza Motorsport franchise.
The “Forza Motorsport 3” experience is enhanced through finely tuned and highly engineered racing machines designed by the world’s most prestigious racing teams. Among the 100 plus set of race cars available are the Peugeot Sport 908, Audi FSI Companion Racing R8 and even the Ferrari MOMO Doran Racing F333 SP.
With impressive graphics and more competition and variety, “Forza Motorsport 3” captures the thrill of Le Mans and lets fans exercise their love of motorsport like never before.
For more information or to download in-game screen shots and videos showcasing some of the hottest race cars available, visit http://forza.xbox.com.
The following are some of the 100 plus race cars featured in “Forza Motorsport 3”:
Manufacturer
Model
Audi
#2 Audi Sport North America R10 TDI
Audi
#2 FSI Champion Racing R8
Bentley
#7 Team Bentley Speed 8
BMW
#15 BMW Motorsport V12 LMR
Cadillac
#6 Team Cadillac Northstar LMP-02
Ferrari
#30 MOMO Doran Racing F333 SP
Peugeot
#8 Peugeot Sport 908
Peugeot
#3 Peugeot Talbot Sport 905 EVO 1C
Porsche
#17 Racing Porsche AG 962c
Toyota
#3 Toyota Motorsports GT-ONE TS020
Audi
#8 Audi Sport Team Joest Audi R10 TDI
Ferrari
#12 Risi Competizione F333 SP
Posted by dee-zilla on Tuesday, June 16, 2009 @ 11:25:28 New Zealand Standard Time
Game News: Stop, Collaborate and Listen with “Lips”
Stop, Collaborate and Listen with “Lips”
Beat the winter chill with favourites from Keane, Vanilla Ice, Concrete Blonde and Sugababes
AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND – JUNE 16, 2009 – Xbox is giving you the chance to beat the winter blues with a classic sing-along track from everyone’s favourite rapper, Vanilla Ice. From June 26th ‘Ice Ice Baby’ will be available for “Lips,” the singing sensation exclusive to Xbox 360.
This June, everyone’s favourite tunes will be available on Xbox LIVE Marketplace and the “Lips” in-game Get Music Store, letting you expand the variety of your music collection. So whether you and your friends like to belt out the high notes or rock out to some classic hits, “Lips” and its catalogue of music is sure to be a party favourite.
During the month of June you can create new fun memories crooning along to Keane’s smash hit “Somewhere Only We Know”; relive the 80s with “Joey” from Concrete Blonde; or form your own girl group with “Freak Like Me” by Sugababes for 160 Microsoft Points each. With a wide selection of songs available and wireless light-up microphones, “Lips” has something for everyone as it brings friends together this winter.
Available June 5:
I Alone – Live
Somewhere Only We Know – Keane
Joey – Concrete Blonde
Available June 12:
Freak Like Me – Sugababes
Love You Anyway – Boyzone
Available June 19:
Spiralling – Keane
Take Back The City – Snow Patrol
Radar Love – Golden Earring
Available June 26:
Love Like This – Natasha Bedingfield feat. Sean Kingston
Ice Ice Baby – Vanilla Ice
I Want You To Want Me (Live at Budokan) – Cheap Trick
More information on “Lips” is available at http://www.xbox.com/en-NZ/games/l/lips/
Posted by dee-zilla on Tuesday, June 16, 2009 @ 11:24:10 New Zealand Standard Time
Game News: Activision Reinvents Tony Hawk Franchise
ACTIVISION REINVENTS TONY HAWK FRANCHISE
THIS SPRING WITH INNOVATIVE
SKATEBOARD CONTROLLER
Tony Hawk: RIDE Set to Redefine Gaming by Offering
Unparalleled Hands-Free Gaming Experience
Auckland, New Zealand – May 19, 2009 – Players will be able to experience skateboarding like never before in Tony Hawk: RIDE from Activision Publishing, Inc. (Nasdaq: ATVI). For the first time, players will have the ability to physically play the game using an innovative motion sensing skateboard controller, allowing for unprecedented freedom and movement. Tony Hawk: RIDE focuses on innovation and fun, bringing the #1 best-selling action-sports franchise to the forefront with cutting-edge technology for the hardcore fans and accessibility for the mass audience.
“Tony Hawk: RIDE is a massive step forward for the franchise and the gaming industry as a whole,” said Rob Kostich, head of marketing, global brand management, Activision Publishing, Inc. “The skateboard controller will redefine sports games by offering players a true skateboarding experience, hands-free, playing with friends and family at home or online in a variety of different locations.”
“This is the game I’ve always wanted to make,” said Tony Hawk, who has been directly involved with development of the project. “Playing on the board is unlike any other game, and I’m excited for everyone to have the chance to feel what it’s really like to experience the true feeling of skateboarding.”
Tony Hawk: RIDE features a wireless skateboard controller designed in conjunction with the game to offer a dynamic gaming experience built from the ground up. Using a combination of accelerometers and motion sensors, the intuitive controller allows players to physically control the action by performing various movements and gestures on the board that directly translate into amazing tricks in the game. Without complex button combinations or analogue sticks, gamers of all skill levels can literally step on the board and play!
Tony Hawk: RIDE is in development by Robomodo for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system. Buzz Monkey is developing the Wii™ system version. The game is not yet rated by the Classification Board and is scheduled for release later this year.
Posted by dee-zilla on Tuesday, May 19, 2009 @ 11:09:30 New Zealand Standard Time
Game News: Activison Secures All - Stars for Transformers
ACTIVISION SECURES ALL-STAR TALENT LINE-UP FOR TRANSFORMERS™: REVENGE OF THE FALLEN VIDEO GAME
Shia LaBeouf, Megan Fox, Peter Cullen and Frank Welker
Return to Provide Voice-Over Performances
Sydney, Australia – May 18, 2009 – Activision Publishing, Inc. (Nasdaq: ATVI) has assembled an all-star cast for the upcoming Transformers™: Revenge of the Fallen video game, including the film’s leads Shia LeBeouf and Megan Fox, who will reprise their starring roles in the game, and fan favourites Peter Cullen and Frank Welker, the voices of OPTIMUS PRIME and MEGATRON from the original animated series. In the new game, developed under license from Hasbro, players are thrust into an adrenaline-pumping battle to defend Earth from a DECEPTICON attack that threatens mankind.
“Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen features an extensive line-up of film actors, along with the voice talent that fans will recognise from the classic animated series,” said Rob Kostich, head of marketing for licensed properties, Activision Publishing, Inc. “The diverse cast allowed us to not only capture the epic storyline from the film, but also seamlessly expand the fiction to create a unique and authentic TRANSFORMERS experience that fans of all ages will enjoy.”
In addition to Shia LeBeouf and Megan Fox, Peter Cullen (Optimus Prime), Mark Ryan (Bumblebee), Jess Harnell (Ironhide), Charles Adler (Starscream) and Robert Foxworth (Ratchet) reprised their film roles for the game. Voice-over veterans John Di Maggio (Sideways) and James Arnold Taylor (The Fallen) also join the roster.
The Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen video game is based on the upcoming live-action feature film from DreamWorks Pictures and Paramount Pictures in association with Hasbro, which opens nationwide on June 24, 2009.* The game lets players take on the role of their favourite AUTOBOTS® or DECEPTICONS®, picking from the largest, most diverse range of playable Transformers – each with their own distinct abilities and weaponry. Set in unique environments across the globe such as Cairo and Shanghai, the game allows players to instantly switch between vehicle and robot modes as they drive, fly, fight and blast their way through intense, pressure-packed levels. After engaging in single player action, players for the first time ever will be able to go online and battle friends in all-new multiplayer modes.
The Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen video game is currently in development by Luxoflux for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and the PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system, the Windows PC version is being developed by Beenox Studios and the distinct Wii™ version is being developed by Krome Studios and are all rated M (Violence); two unique AUTOBOT® and DECEPTICON®-specific Nintendo DS™ versions are being developed by Vicarious Visions and are rated “PG” (Mild Violence).
For more information on the game and to receive exclusive updates about the Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen video game, visit www.TransformersGame.com.
* In the highly anticipated “Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen,” debuting June 24, 2009, Sam Witwicky (Shia LaBeouf) again joins with the AUTOBOTS® against their sworn enemies, the DECEPTICONS®. Michael Bay directs from a screenplay written by Ehren Kruger & Roberto Orci & Alex Kurtzman. DreamWorks Pictures and Paramount Pictures Present, In Association with Hasbro, A di Bonaventura Pictures Production, A Tom DeSanto/Don Murphy Production, A Michael Bay Film “Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen” starring Shia LaBeouf, Megan Fox, Josh Duhamel, Tyrese Gibson and John Turturro. The film is directed by Michael Bay from a screenplay written by Ehren Kruger & Roberto Orci & Alex Kurtzman. Based on Hasbro’s TRANSFORMERS™ Action Figures. Produced by Don Murphy & Tom DeSanto, Lorenzo di Bonaventura and Ian Bryce. Executive producers are Steven Spielberg, Michael Bay, Brian Goldner and Mark Vahradian. This film has not yet been rated.
Posted by dee-zilla on Monday, May 18, 2009 @ 17:08:34 New Zealand Standard Time
Game News: Activision Publishing Partners With Nickelodeon
ACTIVISION PUBLISHING PARTNERS WITH NICKELODEON ON GLOBAL LICENSING DEAL AROUND NETWORK'S HIT TV SERIES ICARLY
Activision Publishing, Inc. (Nasdaq: ATVI), and Nickelodeon today announced a global partnership where the two companies will create an all-new videogame based on the number-one live-action kids' television show iCarly. Releasing internationally this Spring, the videogame will bring the interactive elements from the series to Wii™ and Nintendo DS™ for the first time.
"iCarly is a groundbreaking show that encourages viewers to contribute content of their own," said David Oxford, Activision Publishing. "This game is a natural extension of that creativity, and allows players to interact with the characters they know and love through a variety of different ways, any time they like."
"In order to make a property as huge and irreverent as iCarly into a videogame, we tapped into the interactive model of the show itself," said Steve Youngwood, Nickelodeon/MTVN Kids and Family Group. "iCarly's entire premise is to allow kids and tweens to actively participate in their entertainment experience, and Activision is doing a phenomenal job in recreating that for Wii™ and Nintendo DS™ systems."
In the iCarly videogame, the possibilities are truly endless as players help Carly, Sam, Freddie and the other characters from the hit TV series craft all-new webisodes of the show in an original storyline designed specifically for the game. Fun and frenetic mini-games, presented as show skits, capture the creativity of the series, and allow players to work with the characters through new adventures. The innovative iCreate mode provides opportunities for gamers to add their own touches to the webisodes by swapping out props, characters, colour schemes, audio, intros, outros and more. Up to four players can either compete or cooperate together on Wii to complete the skits and earn Web-Cred, which can then be used to purchase new items, props, accessories and locations from in-game websites.
Nickelodeon's iCarly, a web show within a show, is the number-one live-action program on all of broadcast and basic cable television with kids and tweens, and the top kid-targeted live action series on basic cable with total viewers. It averages nearly 26 million total viewers each week (source: Nielsen Media Research). The show's companion website www.iCarly.com recently boasted its best month ever in March among total visits, visitors and page views (source: comScore Media Metrix March 2009).
For more information visit www.activision.com.
Posted by dee-zilla on Thursday, May 14, 2009 @ 19:40:04 New Zealand Standard Time
Game News: Watch the Prototype opening ciematic!
NinjaSock writes:
On the 12th June Prototype is being released and its looking hot!
Check out The opening cinematic trailer. See zombie citizens, bazookas and total carnage in the Big Apple here.
Posted by dee-zilla on Thursday, May 14, 2009 @ 17:35:16 New Zealand Standard Time
Game News: “See the Future” of “Fable II”
“See the Future” of “Fable II” exclusively through Xbox LIVE Marketplace
Episode nine of Lionhead Studios’ video diary series goes behind-the-scenes of the much anticipated second Game Add-on from May 13
Enter Lionhead Studios’ world of whimsy to catch a glimpse of the new adventures that await the heroes of “Fable II” in the much anticipated second Game Add-on, “See the Future,” which will be available from May 13 on Xbox LIVE®.
In this latest behind-the-scenes diary episode, the team chats about the continued storyline, wacky characters and design choices for “See the Future,” including the creation of 250 fun Achievement points and a trip down memory lane to the original “Fable.”
As an added bonus, all Xbox LIVE Silver account members are invited to join in on the adventurous LIVE co-op festivities during the complimentary Multiplayer Unlocked Weekend! Created specifically for “Fable II” fans, this Multiplayer Unlocked Weekend will be accessible in all LIVE-enabled regions where “Fable II” is available, starting May 9 at 7:01 a.m. (New Zealand Time), and concluding on May 12 at 6:59 a.m. (New Zealand Time).
The “Fable II” Game Add-on, “See the Future,” will be available for download exclusively on Xbox LIVE Marketplace from May 13 for 560 Microsoft Points for the premium content package. “Fable II” is available exclusively on Xbox 360® and is rated “M” for Mature.
To learn more about “See the Future,” including access to this developer diary and new screenshots, head over to http://www.lionhead.com/Diaries/Default.aspx or http://www.lionhead.com/Fable2/SeetheFuture.aspx
Posted by dee-zilla on Friday, May 08, 2009 @ 10:08:02 New Zealand Standard Time
Game News: Gears of War 2 enlists five million recruits
“Gears of War® 2” enlists five million recruits worldwide
“Gears of War 2: Dark Corners” game add-on is set to unleash all-new campaign and multiplayer content
“Gears of War 2,” the entertainment blockbuster of 2008, has surpassed five million copies sold worldwide, and the overall “Gears of War” franchise unit sales have eclipsed the 11 million unit mark.
To commemorate these milestones, Microsoft Game Studios® and Epic Games® are set to unleash “Gears of War 2: Dark Corners”, a value-packed offer of downloadable multiplayer map packs and all new exclusive campaign content.
Available exclusively on Xbox LIVE® from July 29 for 1600 Microsoft points, the “Gears of War 2: Dark Corners” game add-on, features seven new multiplayer maps.
The seven new multiplayer maps in the “Gears of War 2: Dark Corner” game add-on are:
• Allfathers Garden: Honour the sacred grounds of the Coalition founders in this explosive map, where powerful weapons catalyse fast and furious action at this COG landmark.
• Memorial: Set near the Eternal Flame, which pays tribute to the fallen soldiers on the battlefield, a hard-fought battle ensues at the Tomb of Unknowns. Putting their flank formation and evasive skills to the test, players will fight to control the Boomshot.
• Sanctuary: Once a peaceful ground for reflection and remembrance, all that remains of the Sanctuary is the chill of death. Feast your eyes on the arsenal of weapons available as you make your way through the tight paths and blind corners of the Locust-damaged temple corridors.
• War Machine: In the abandoned train station that once served as a hub for travel, players will need to master the Longshot, Mulcher and Boomshot weapons to advance the fight while evading fire from the platforms above.
• Highway: Take the fight deep into the Locust Hollow in the complex passages of this underground highway system brimming with enemy vermin. Stick together, separate the enemy and have an exit strategy ready or it’ll be a one-way trip.
• Way Station: Sitting in limbo between death and “processing” are Locust way stations filled with fallen COG soldiers. Tread lightly and practice patience as it’s better to sacrifice firepower for stealth while navigating this minefield of hidden grenades.
• Nowhere: Set in the middle of what was once a destination for weary desert travellers, the land is now barren and devoid of life. Pick off your enemies with the Longshot sniper rifle and make your way to the stairwell with a well-fortified team during this intense firefight.
Also releasing at the same time is a deleted campaign chapter titled “Road to Ruin.” In “Road to Ruin,” Marcus and Dom return to the Locust Hollow in a scene that can be played two ways, guns blazing or in all-new stealth mode.
“Gears of War 2” is available exclusively on Xbox 360 and is rated R18. “Gears of War 2: Dark Corners” will be available in New Zealand from July 29th.
For more information about “Gears of War 2”, visit www.GearsofWar.com.
Posted by dee-zilla on Friday, May 08, 2009 @ 10:06:05 New Zealand Standard Time
Game News: LEGO Rock Band
Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment, TT Games, The LEGO Group, Harmonix and MTV Games announce LEGO Rock Band
Rhythm based music game snaps together best-selling franchises to create fun family-friendly experience for all ages.
Sydney, Australia - April 21, 2009 - Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment and TT Games are joining forces with the LEGO Group, Harmonix and MTV Games, a part of Viacom’s MTV Networks (NYSE: VIA and VIA.B), to merge two of the most popular videogame franchises with the creation of LEGO® Rock Band®. The unique family-friendly music experience is currently in development by TT Games in partnership with Harmonix, and published by Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment. The game, which will allow families, tweens and teens to experience a wild journey to rock stardom where they can “Build a Band and Rock the Universe,” will be available for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and other next-gen systems. All versions are scheduled for release in Summer 2009.
LEGO Rock Band combines the multiplayer music experience of Rock Band® with the fun, customization and humour of the LEGO videogame franchisepacked with brilliant chart-topping songs and classic favourites suitable for younger audiences, including:
Blur: “Song 2”
Carl Douglas: “Kung Fu Fighting”
Europe: “The Final Countdown”
Good Charlotte: “Boys and Girls”
Pink: "So What”
Players will become rockers as they embark on a journey to stardom that the whole family can enjoy as they work their way through local venues, stadiums and fantasy locations on Earth and beyond that mimic the imaginative settings that the LEGO world offers. Also continuing the LEGO “build-and-play” gaming experience, players will be able to create their own LEGO Rock Band style as they customize their minifigure avatars, band and entourage, including roadies, managers and crew. LEGO Rock Band supports Rock Band instruments, as well as other music game controllers.
“LEGO Rock Band combines two compelling properties and creates an experience that family members of all ages will enjoy playing together as a group,” said Tom Stone, Managing Director, TT Games. “Harmonix and MTV Games are the world experts in music gameplay, and we’re genuinely thrilled to bring the unique and humour-filled LEGO experience to their Rock Band universe.”
“We’re thrilled to offer another LEGO branded gaming experience that will deliver humourous and social play for families and friends,” said Henrik Taudorf Lorensen, Vice President, the LEGO Group. “LEGO Rock Band is built around the same values of imagination and family-friendly creative role play that is present in other LEGO videogames. It will deliver innovative new elements of game play that complement the fun of the Rock Band experience.”
“Rock Band is a social game experience that crosses every generation and every genre of rock,” said Bob Picunko, Senior Vice President of Electronic Games for MTV Games. “Harmonix and MTV Games are big fans of the LEGO game franchise and excited to work with TT Games to develop a new take on Rock Band that focuses on great music and LEGO humour that’s fun for the whole family.”
Posted by tmdude on Sunday, April 26, 2009 @ 18:45:53 New Zealand Standard Time
Blizzard have just released the second installment of our StarCraft II Battle Reports, a series of videos created for the official website in order to give you a closer look at the fast-paced, intense, and exciting-to-watch multiplayer matches of StarCraft II. In this latest battle report, you'll see two of Blizzard Entertainment's best players go head-to-head as the zerg and terrans while our commentators, StarCraft II lead designer Dustin Browder and eSports team member Robert Simpson, dissect and analyze the on-screen action for you.
Posted by tmdude on Sunday, April 26, 2009 @ 18:40:55 New Zealand Standard Time
Game News: Videogames develop life skills
Approximately 84 per cent of technology enthusiasts believe that playing videogames has helped them develop skills that aid their everyday lives, according to a survey conducted by Autodesk.
Of those surveyed on Autodesk's community site, the Area, 25 per cent of developers, animators, designers and students feel that the skills earned through game playing have helped their education. 37 per cent said these skills have been useful in their careers and 22 per cent also felt they've helped their social lives.
"I find it exciting that the community on the Area - a very creative workforce - has found playing games beneficial to themselves and in their careers," said Mary-Beth Haggerty, Autodesk's senior games industry manager.
"Games can have a real impact. I remember never looking at a city the same way after playing Sim City growing up. As a professional I've judged the Future City Competition during National Engineers Week - a competition where teenagers create future cities using Sim City 4. It's great to see that young people are being inspired by games and using them in such positive ways."
Posted by tmdude on Sunday, April 26, 2009 @ 18:38:21 New Zealand Standard Time
Game News: SideWinder gaming range gains new recruit
SideWinder gaming range gains new recruit
Microsoft’s first ambidextrous SideWinder X3 mouse offers gamers new possibilities
Microsoft today announced the newest addition to its SideWinder Gaming range, the SideWinder X3™ Mouse.
This eight-button, ambidextrous gaming mouse delivers comfort for either hand along with the performance features fans of SideWinder products know and love. These include a 2,000 dots-per-inch (dpi) laser-tracking engine with on-the-fly dpi switching between high, medium and low sensitivity.
The SideWinder X3 Mouse is easy on the wallet without skimping on performance, offering gamers a set of features to help keep them ahead of the competition.
“In-game comfort continues to be a key consideration for PC gamers,” said Danica Aitken, ANZ Product Marketing Manager, Internet Communications Hardware for Microsoft. “With that in mind the SideWinder X3 has been designed to be ambidextrous and small in size. It’s ideal for gaming as well as everyday use.”
The SideWinder X3 Mouse joins a stable of powerful SideWinder gaming peripherals including the SideWinder X8 Mouse, the first mouse to offer best-in-class tracking with Microsoft BlueTrack Technology and the SideWinder X5 Mouse – a fast, powerful gaming mouse designed to help give mainstream gamers that competitive edge, the original Sidewinder Mouse and the revolutionary Sidewinder X6 Keyboard.
“We have designed a gaming range which gives mainstream and hardcore gamers alike, a choice of premium quality products across several price-points,” Ms Aitken said. “The SideWinder X3 is the latest addition offering versatility and value for money.”
Like its siblings, the SideWinder X3 Mouse has five programmable main buttons that are customisable to gamers’ preferences and tested for extreme gaming, with the main button life rated to 10 million clicks. Additional features include:
• IntelliPoint software to create and assign macros
• Wide, indented scroll wheel for more precise click movement
• Low-profile lateral side buttons for easy access during gaming and everyday computing
• Wide-glide feet for smooth handling and a light, balanced feel
More about the Sidewinder range:
SideWinder X8 Mouse
Microsoft’s SideWinder X8 Mouse is the first in the range to include Microsoft’s new proprietary BlueTrack Technology ensuring the ultimate rate, speed and acceleration on virtually any surface1. The X8 offers gamers wireless freedom with wired performance with a 2.4GHz wireless connection that is designed for lag-free play. Gaming will no longer be interrupted thanks to the X8’s innovative play-and-charge system – ensuring a nonstop gaming experience — up to 30 hours of active gaming on a single charge.
The X8 also offers smart features to enhance the gaming experience, including an LCD screen on the mouse to quickly view dpi settings and macro-recording icons.
SideWinder X5 Mouse
The SideWinder X5 Mouse is a fast, powerful gaming mouse with nine buttons designed for handling with vertical side buttons, adjustable sensitivity switching up to 2,000 dpi. With five customisable buttons, and a Quick-Launch button that launches the Windows Vista Games Explorer this mouse is designed for gaming2.
SideWinder X6 Keyboard
The SideWinder X6 Keyboard is more than a standard keyboard - it was built with gamers in mind, to give them the edge over the competition. The X6 is the first gaming keyboard on the market with a switchable key pad, allowing gamers to play left or right-handed. With features, including cruise control, record button, adjustable backlighting and WASD gaming keys, this keyboard is a great gaming addition.
Sidewinder Mouse
The first mouse in the SideWinder range, this gaming mouse set itself apart from other gaming products on the market at the time with one-touch access to the Windows Vista® Games Explorer, 10 buttons with five programmable main buttons, the first in-game macro record button right on the mouse and the first-ever LCD on a gaming mouse.
Pricing and Availability:
The SideWinder X3 Mouse will be available in June 2009 for a recommended retail price of 69.003.
The SideWinder X5 Mouse, SideWinder X8 Mouse and SideWinder X6 Keyboard are all available now for the below recommended retail prices:
SideWinder X5 Mouse - $99.003
SideWinder X8 Mouse - $179.003
SideWinder X6 Keyboard - $179.003
SideWinder Mouse - $149.003
Posted by dee-zilla on Wednesday, April 15, 2009 @ 20:53:40 New Zealand Standard Time
Game News: “GH Metallica” goes wireless with “Lips” Mics
“Guitar Hero Metallica” goes wireless with “Lips” microphones
New “Lips” add-ons available from Ne-Yo, Coldplay and more in April
Xbox New Zealand has announced that Activision’s “Guitar Hero® Metallica®” will be the first music title to support the “Lips” wireless microphones, so it’s time to break free from the cords and belt out your favourite songs like a true rock star with music games on the Xbox 360®console.
The high quality “Lips” wireless microphones has set a lofty standard for music game peripherals. Using the latest in motion-sensing technology and built-in LED lights that pulse to the rhythm of your performance, these microphones help Xbox 360 deliver a legendary home music experience.
Now these mics will help people jam with other great music games on Xbox 360, first with “Guitar Hero® Metallica.” Additional titles that support the “Lips” microphones will available later this year, and only on Xbox 360.
Fans of “Lips” have even more reason to grab their wireless mics and sing with their friends, as more popular hits are added to Xbox LIVE® Marketplace and the “Lips” in-game “Get Music” store. Song packs featuring Ne-Yo, Coldplay and Creedence Clearwater Revival will be available this month, as well as new songs from Incubus, Fall Out Boy, Yellowcard, Mika and more, worldwide in all Xbox LIVE enabled regions.
Available April 4:
•Wish You Were Here – Incubus
•Sugar, We're Goin Down – Fall Out Boy
•Bad Moon Rising – Creedence Clearwater Revival
Available April 11:
•Ne-Yo Song Pack – Closer, So Sick, and Hate That I Love You by Rihanna feat. Ne-Yo
•Coldplay Song Pack – Speed Of Sound, The Scientist, and In My Place
•Looking Out My Back Door – Creedence Clearwater Revival
•Closer – Ne-Yo
•So Sick – Ne-Yo
Available April 18:
•Creedence Clearwater Revival Song Pack - Looking Out My Back Door, Bad Moon Rising and Who’ll Stop the Rain
•Kryptonite – 3 Doors Down
•All My Life – K-Ci & Jo Jo
•Sing – Travis
Available April 28:
•Love Today – Mika
•Ocean Avenue – Yellowcard
•Linger – The Cranberries
Xbox 360 puts the music experiences you love all in one place – letting you watch music videos, listen to music, and of course, perform as your favourite artists with games like “Lips,” and “Guitar Hero® Metallica.” And with nearly 60 million songs downloaded to date, Xbox LIVE® online entertainment network Game Add-ons keep you rocking out at the forefront of the music scene with dozens of great songs and albums for your favourite music games.
“Lips,” the singing party game from Xbox 360 and iNiS, includes 40 songs on-disc and two wireless, motion-sensitive microphones. More information on “Lips” is available at http://www.xbox.com/en-NZ/games/l/lips/
Posted by dee-zilla on Tuesday, April 07, 2009 @ 12:36:38 New Zealand Standard Time
The future of Albion awaits discovery in “See the Future”, the latest game add-on for the award-winning role-playing game “Fable II” from Microsoft and Lionhead Studios.
Available in May exclusively on Xbox LIVE Marketplace, “See the Future” is action-packed journey that challenges players to lift the curses placed on three mysterious items that have come into the possession of Murgo the Trader.
In “See the Future,” players will be given the chance to heed the call for a hero to restore colour and balance to the world, or let Albion fall to the wayside. Those who emerge victorious will receive the ultimate reward: a quest that provides a vision of Albion’s future and what lies ahead for those born into the heroic bloodline. The fantastical new quests in “See the Future” will bring players face-to-face with new characters, creatures, events and legendary artefacts, including:
•Murgo: Having first met him during the childhood sequence of “Fable II,” Murgo returns to Bowerstone Market to bring an amazing array of new wares, including potions that can transform canine companions into new breeds.
•The Ghosts of the Snowglobe Quest: Holding a disturbing secret, the small model village inside it was once a real town in Albion. The people who once inhabited it are now ghosts condemned to endless torment until the shadowy threat that cursed them is defeated.
•The Cursed Knight Quest: Forever banished to a land beyond the dead, the Cursed Knight awaits a hero who has the strength and will to dress up in convincing costumes, even imitating a hobbe or balverine, to save him from his fate.
•The Colosseum: The Colosseum puts even the Crucible to shame. Only the greatest heroes have triumphed here. Players’ abilities will be put to the test to prove themselves in combat once and for all, to win the ultimate in prizes.
In addition, “See the Future” offers complimentary unique items*, including Welley’s soldier helmet and other clothing, a braided ponytail and other hairstyles, psycho Jester make-up, a new hero expression, the back flip trick for canine companions, and a collectible Murgo the Trader gold statue.
* The complimentary content update must be manually downloaded from Xbox LIVE and will enable those who haven’t purchased the “See the Future” premium content to continue the co-op action with their friends.
Posted by dee-zilla on Tuesday, April 07, 2009 @ 12:33:45 New Zealand Standard Time
Game News: Monsters vs. Aliens video game
SAVE THE PLANET AS ONLY A MONSTER CAN IN ACTIVISION’S MONSTERS VS. ALIENS™ VIDEO GAME
When aliens attack, monsters fight back in Activision Publishing, Inc.’s (Nasdaq: ATVI) Monsters vs. Aliens™, the video game based on the highly anticipated 3D feature film from DreamWorks Animation SKG, Inc. (Nasdaq: DWA), which will debut on April 2nd. Starting today, gamers can experience heart pounding action and silly antics as they lead a dynamic team of misfit monsters on a mission to protect earth from destruction.
“Monsters vs. Aliens allows players to control the characters from the film and use their unique abilities to battle alien enemies throughout the game,” said Rob Kostich, head of marketing for licensed properties, Activision Publishing, Inc. “Players invite a friend to grab a Wii Remote™ or controller and join forces at any time to help clear enemies, collect monster DNA and overcome obstacles as their favourite monster heroes.”
The Monsters vs. Aliens video game calls players into action to battle against Gallaxhar and his alien robot army. Taking on the roles of The Missing Link, the macho half-ape, half-fish; the gelatinous, indestructible and always hungry B.O.B.; and Ginormica, the 49-foot-11-inch tall woman, gamers team up with the helpful genius Dr. Cockroach, Ph.D. and Insectosaurus, the 350-foot tall grub to defeat the alien invaders. Players master the unique and diverse abilities of each character as they ooze, brawl, skate, puzzle solve, climb, crawl, jump and race through more than 20 levels on Earth and through outer space.
Monsters vs. Aliens was developed for the console and PC platforms by Beenox, Inc. and for Nintendo DS by Amaze Entertainment.
The gameis available for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, the Nintendo Wii and DS, PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system, and Games for Windows®. The console and Game for Windows versions have been rated “PG” (Mild Violence); the handheld game has been rated “G” (General) by the Classification Board.
Posted by dee-zilla on Monday, April 06, 2009 @ 10:55:59 New Zealand Standard Time
Game News: Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 announced
NinjaSock writes:
Developer Infinity Ward announced the sequel to 2007's Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare Wednesday night, at the end of a Game Developers Conference award ceremony. Not a lot is known about the game, but the teaser trailer confirms three things: Call of Duty will return to modern day for the second time, Russians are involved, and the game is coming November 10 to unnamed systems.
Although two years older than last year's Call of Duty: World at War, developed by Treyarch, the original Modern Warfare is largely considered the better game and is still being played almost as much as World at War on Xbox Live. Publisher Activision maintains that it will continue to alternate development duties between Infinity and Treyarch. The first Call of Duty debuted in 2003.
Posted by dee-zilla on Friday, March 27, 2009 @ 17:38:54 New Zealand Daylight Time
Game News: Guitar Hero Metallica Demo Out NOW!
GUITAR HERO® METALLICA® DEMO TAKES CENTRE STAGE ON XBOX LIVE® MARKETPLACE
Auckland, New Zealand – March 23, 2009 – Gamers itching to get a taste of Guitar Hero® Metallica® in advance of the game’s release need not wait any longer as Activision Publishing Inc. (Nasdaq: ATVI) announced that the demo will be available today for free download on Xbox LIVE® Marketplace for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft. In the demo, virtual rock stars across the globe can shred, drum and wail to Metallica’s explosive hits “Sad But True” and “Seek And Destroy,” as well as “No Excuses” from Alice In Chains and “Stone Cold Crazy” from Queen, both hand-picked by Metallica as featured guest acts in the game. Set in The Forum venue, highlighting the new in-the-round stage designs and custom camera angles, players can begin honing their skills in single-player and band Quickplay, head-to-head, Face-Off, Pro Face-Off and Battle gameplay modes.
“Ride the Lightning” with musical icons Metallica and 21 other rockin’ acts in an all new Guitar Hero® experience – Guitar Hero Metallica. Enter the world of Lars Ulrich, James Hetfield, Kirk Hammett and Robert Trujillo and experience the intensity and skill of one of the greatest bands of all time. Shred on the guitar controller, rip on the drum kit controller and wail on the mic to a set list featuring over 45 explosive hits from Metallica’s illustrious career and a wide variety of other legendary artists personally selected by the band, such as Bob Seger & The Silver Bullet Band, Alice In Chains, System of A Down, Foo Fighters and Queen. Fans will be able to rock as Metallica while performing in venues reminiscent of the band’s epic album covers, themes from their music and real world locales.
Guitar Hero Metallica is being developed by Neversoft Entertainment for Xbox 360 and the PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system. The Wii™ home video game system from Nintendo and the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system versions are being developed by Budcat Creations. The game is rated M (Infrequent Coarse Language) by the Classification Board. For more information about Guitar Hero Metallica, please visit guitarhero.com.
About Activision Publishing, Inc.
Headquartered in Santa Monica, California, Activision Publishing, Inc. is a leading worldwide developer, publisher and distributor of interactive entertainment and leisure products.
Activision maintains operations in the U.S., Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Sweden, Spain, the Netherlands, Australia, Japan and South Korea. More information about Activision and its products can be found on the company’s website, www.activision.com.
Posted by dee-zilla on Tuesday, March 24, 2009 @ 16:41:12 New Zealand Daylight Time
Game News: Need For Speed: Shift This September
Need for SpeedShift FROM EA RACES INTO Retail THIS September
Delivering a True Driver’s Experience, Need for Speed SHIFT Pushes
Authentic Racing Genre to the Next Level
Auckland, NZ – March 24, 2009 – Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ: ERTS) announced today that Need for Speed™ SHIFT, the all-new authentic racing game in the Need for Speed series, will hit stores in New Zealand in September 2009. Need for Speed SHIFT brings a true driver’s experience to some of the world’s most iconic racing tracks, including the storied Brand’s Hatch in the UK. The game also features the largest roster of high-performance cars in Need for Speed history including race cars such as the Pagani Zonda, Porsche 911 GT2 and Lotus Elise.
“With Need for Speed SHIFT, we set out to create a racing game that pushes the genre and delivers something never before seen in a Need for Speed title,” said Patrick Soderlund, Senior Vice President at EA Games Europe. “By focusing on the driver’s experience through the first-person view, we are able to capture the high-speed intensity and gripping emotions of racing.”
Players are thrust into the loud, intense, and athletic experience of racing a car from the driver’s perspective through the combination of perception based G-forces, the hyper reality of the cockpit view, and the all-new brutally disorienting crash dynamic. Need for SpeedSHIFT features an accurate, accessible physics-based driving model that allows you to feel every impact, every change of track surface and every last bit of grip as you push yourself to the edge.
Need for Speed SHIFT is being developed by Slightly Mad Studios in collaboration with Black Box and Patrick Soderlund. Slightly Mad Studios includes developers and designers that worked on the critically acclaimed games GT Legends and GTR 2. The PSP version is being developed by EA’s Bright Light studio.
Need for Speed SHIFT will be released on PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system, Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system, PC and PSP® (PlayStation® Portable) in spring 2009.
Posted by dee-zilla on Tuesday, March 24, 2009 @ 15:55:50 New Zealand Daylight Time
Game News: Fancy yourself a hunter?
NinjaSock writes:
The Hunter, developed by Avalanche Studios (the creators of Just Cause), promises to be the most true-to-life simulation of buck hunting ever designed. With a mixture of different gaming features, from social networking to online play, The Hunter provides a sandbox island where patience and careful planning win out over run and gun play.
The game is just recently out in Open Beta, utilizing the same “login to play” system alongside ID Software (Quake Live) and EA (Battlefield Heroes). It’s currently free to play after making an account and grabbing a 400mb file from download. From the brief moment of play I’ve had, the presentation is nothing short of stunning. Birds fly in random patterns, deer sniff the air and scratch themselves. The graphics are phenomenal for such a small install, so it’s definitely worth a look.
So load your bolt action, grab the camo and head over to the website.
Posted by dee-zilla on Monday, March 23, 2009 @ 15:03:20 New Zealand Daylight Time
Game News: Halo Wars Sells One Millionth Game
NinjaSock writes:
Microsoft today announced that sales of Halo Wars™ have reached more than one million units worldwide, making the exclusive Xbox 360® title the best selling real-time strategy game on any current generation console. With a revolutionary control scheme designed expressly for the Xbox 360 controller and a riveting story that takes Halo fans deeper into the Halo universe, Halo Wars is breaking new ground for the strategy genre by introducing a new wave of fans to strategy games and reminding existing fans why it's so fun.
Since the game's release throughout Asia on February 26 and subsequent launches in Europe and the Americas, fans around the world have been taking full advantage of the gameplay. To date:
There have been more than 2.6 million multiplayer matches played
More than 118 years of time has been spent in multiplayer matches on Xbox LIVE®
On average, more than 200,000 Halo Wars fans have taken up arms in battles between the UNSC and Covenant each day
But these initial explosive battles in Halo Wars are just beginning. Microsoft is working closely with partner and newly formed studio Robot Entertainment, which is comprised of Halo Wars and Age of Empires veterans from Ensemble Studios. More Halo Wars content is being prepared, so stay tuned.
Posted by dee-zilla on Saturday, March 21, 2009 @ 00:08:47 New Zealand Daylight Time
Game News: EA Announces The Godfather II Has Gone Gold
NinjaSock writes:
Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ:ERTS) announced that The Godfather® II has gone gold. The Godfather II game from Electronic Arts and Paramount Digital Entertainment will be available on April 9th in New Zealand for the Xbox 360® videogame and entertainment system, PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system, and PC.
The Godfather fiction endures because it emphasizes the power of being a Don - running the family, pulling the strings, outsmarting enemies - and The Godfather II game puts this power in the player's hands right from the start. On the eve of the Cuban revolution, a major mob meeting in Havana takes a bloody turn and the Don of your family is killed. Success breeds opportunity, so when Michael Corleone comes under investigation by a Senate Committee on Organized Crime, the Corleone Family calls upon you to reestablish its operation in New York and eventually expand into new territories, Miami and Cuba, by any means necessary.
As a Don in the Corleone family, The Godfather II lets the player carve out their own story of deception, betrayal, and conquest in a 1960's organized crime world. While at its heart The Godfather II is an action game, it allows players to go beyond street life to roll up their sleeves and get a feel for the challenges of running their own organized crime family. Players will have to invest in their family, manage their business, and even reach out to corrupt officials all of which is done through the revolutionary Don's View. The Don's View is a 3D representation of the player's criminal empire, putting the player in the Don's mindset; it allows them to coordinate their family strategy, plan hits on rival made men, attack enemy rackets, and much more. By letting players call the shots, The Godfather II delivers the ultimate organized crime experience in both the single and multiplayer* modes.
Players who pre-order The Godfather II at participating retailers worldwide will receive an exclusive crew member, named Tommy Cipolla, to hire into their family.
Posted by dee-zilla on Thursday, March 19, 2009 @ 13:48:06 New Zealand Daylight Time
Game News: DLC comes to Steam
NinjaSock writes:
March 16, 2009 — Valve, creators of best-selling entertainment products and advanced technologies, today announced the arrival of in-game downloadable content to Steam, their massively popular PC gaming platform. In-game DLC allows developers and publishers to use their own games as a platform for selling additional content to gamers.
The first game to take advantage of this new in-game DLC capability is The Maw, by Twisted Pixel Games. Their first DLC releases are levels entitled The Maw: Brute Force and The Maw: River Redirect. Each DLC level expands The Maw storyline by fitting in-between the original levels as "deleted scenes."
Twisted Pixel CEO, Michael Wilford, says "We're happy that we can now offer Steam customers significant expansions to the Maw story, delivering more Maw directly to gamers while they're still playing the game."
DLC can now be added to any game on Steam, regardless of whether it was originally purchased via Steam, at retail, or via other digital outlets. It is also a feature of Steamworks, the suite of free tools and services available to game developers and publishers.
For more information about The Maw or Steam, please visit www.steamgames.com.
Posted by dee-zilla on Thursday, March 19, 2009 @ 13:46:51 New Zealand Daylight Time
Game News: Classic Transformers theme coming to GH?
NinjaSock writes:
Rock Band may be winning the war when it comes to downloadable content for rhythm games, but it looks like Guitar Hero may have just the song to turn the tide. It looks like the classic theme song "The Touch" from the 1986 animated Transformers film will be getting turned into a GH track, and best of all, it will be free.
"I've been holding off announcing this, but "The Touch" is going to be in Guitar Hero," Stan Bush, who performed the song, told Transformers fan site Seibertron.com (via ShackNews). "Activision will be releasing it as a free download. I'll contact Activision this week to find out the release date and let you know."
While Bush was shunned from the recent live action version of Transformers, he also revealed that "The Touch" could potentially end up in the upcoming sequel. "We're just finishing up a totally new, killer version of 'The Touch' which we'll be submitting for Transformers 2: Revenge of the Fallen," he said.
This is great news both for GH fans who haven't seen much in the way of good new DLC, and fans of the original film, for whom this song will most certainly bring back some fond memories.
Of course, there remains the possibility that this is a very elaborate prank, but we're hoping that's not the case.
Posted by dee-zilla on Thursday, March 19, 2009 @ 13:46:25 New Zealand Daylight Time
Game News: EA Announces Army Of Two: The 40th Day
EA MONTREAL ANNOUNCES ARMY OF TWO: THE 40TH DAY
The Ultimate Two-Man Private Military Team is Back in Action Delivering New and Groundbreaking Cooperative Gameplay
EA Montreal, a studio of Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ: ERTS), today announced ARMY OF TWO™: THE 40th DAY. The ultimate two-man private military team of Salem and Rios return in this epic sequel where they must survive and prevail in a city under siege. EA Montreal is once again leading the next evolution in co-op shooter games offering a fresh, innovative and fluid co-op experience with a deep arsenal of customizable weapons so players can team up with their friends online for the fight of their lives.
“With ARMY OF TWO: THE 40th DAY, we’re pushing the tactical two-man military team into new battlegrounds offering a completely organic and rich co-op experience to deliver an action-packed co-op shooter this winter,” says Reid Schneider, Executive Producer, EA Montreal. ”As chaos blankets Shanghai, China, you must rely on your partner to survive as you weave through a broken city left devastated in a mysterious wake.”
When a disaster of epic proportions strikes Shanghai, China, Rios and Salem find themselves right in the middle of it all—the wrong place, the wrong time, but the right team. A carefully orchestrated series of mysterious catastrophes is dragging Shanghai to the brink of ruin, and now the Army of Two must fight their way through ravaged city districts as they try to beat the odds and uncover the secret of the 40th Day.
ARMY OF TWO: THE 40th DAY features a bigger playbook of new co-op moves that either player can use at any time, opening up new strategies and countless choices for both players. The result is a bigger, better, more organic and immersive co-op experience that lets gamers put their best two-man tactics to use whenever and wherever they want.
ARMY OF TWO: THE 40th DAY will be available for the Xbox 360® videogame and entertainment system, the PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system and the PSP® (PlayStation® Portable) this summer.
For more information on ARMY OF TWO: THE 40th DAY please visit: www.armyoftwo.com. For more information on EA Montreal, please visit www.eamontreal.com or www.ea.com.
Posted by dee-zilla on Monday, March 16, 2009 @ 12:33:03 New Zealand Daylight Time
Game News: EA & Tiger Woods roar back to the links...
EA AND TIGER WOODS ROAR BACK TO THE LINKS IN
TIGER WOODS PGA TOUR 10
Experience the Thrill and Spectacle of Tournament Golf
Electronic Arts Inc., (NASDAQ: ERTS) announced today that the world’s #1 selling* golf video game franchise tees off for a new season in Tiger Woods PGA TOUR® 10. Available at New Zealand retail stores from 19 June, Tiger Woods PGA TOUR 10 takes golf fans inside-the-ropes to experience the drama and emotion of tournament golf. In addition, the U.S. Open, a USGA championship, and the USGA’s Rules of Golf will be available in Tiger Woods PGA TOUR 10 for the first time in franchise history.
“No player has elevated the game of golf more than Tiger Woods and we celebrate his return with a game that recreates the atmosphere of the PGA TOUR like never before,” said Executive Producer Mike Taramykin. “Tiger Woods PGA TOUR 10 continues the long-standing tradition of providing an authentic golf experience that is accessible to skilled and casual gamers alike.”
As you hear the roar of the crowd from the next hole over, can you handle the mounting pressure while you stand over your tournament-winning putt? Expanded crowds surround every hole; adding to the tension and excitement of each shot. A first for the franchise, real-time weather will be reflected on every course, ensuring the in-game experience matches that of the current weather conditions. Tiger Woods PGA TOUR 10 will also feature a television broadcast style presentation, which include instantaneous updates and a new announcer team of ESPN’s Scott Van Pelt and the Golf Channel’s Kelly Tilghman.
Tiger Woods PGA TOUR 10 on the Nintendo Wii will support the all-new Wii MotionPlus accessory, which brings an authentic sports motion to your golf swing; including the ability to draw and fade. Whether it’s opening up your clubface to take on that dogleg or tap in that five-foot putt – Tiger Woods PGA TOUR 10 with the Wii MotionPlus is like bringing a golf simulator to your living room.
This year’s 2009 U.S. Open course, Bethpage State Park (Black Course), will be available on the Xbox 360, PLAYSTATION3, PSP and Wii versions of the game. The USGA’s U.S. Open courses are known for being the toughest test in all of golf, and in Tiger Woods PGA TOUR 10 golf fans can expect the same major championship conditions as found in the real world.
Developed in Orlando, Fla., by EA Tiburon, Tiger Woods PGA TOUR 10 will be available on the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system, the PlayStation®2 and PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment systems, the PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system and Wii™.
For more information about Tiger Woods PGA TOUR 10, check out www.tigerwoods10.com.
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.
* Based on NPD data.
Posted by dee-zilla on Monday, March 16, 2009 @ 12:31:33 New Zealand Daylight Time
Game News: Chinese Government blocking WotLK
NinjaSock writes:
The best-selling World of Warcraft: Wrath of the Lich King managed to smash sales records from the start, moving almost 3 million copies within the first 24 hours it was on the market. However, the game still hasn't come out in China— the government has yet to approve it due to the "objectionable content" the game contains.
According to JLM Pacific Epoch, the Chinese government has refused two applications to put the game on the market. Each of these applications was filed by The9, a Chinese company that handles licensing and distributing of many big-name MMOs like World of Warcraft, Guild Wars and FIFA Online. The Escapist, meanwhile, cites an insider who explained that Wrath of the Lich King has been refused approval specifically because it features skeletons and because of a certain "city raid." It turns out that the submitted version of the game also doesn't have the first hero class for Death Knight characters.
This isn't the first time that WoW has had problems getting released in China due to the appearance of skeletons in the game. Exactly why China has a problem with skeletons appearing the game has yet to be revealed, though Reuters claimed (in 2007) that this might be due to China's recent efforts to remove "negative online influences."
Posted by dee-zilla on Saturday, March 14, 2009 @ 18:11:09 New Zealand Daylight Time
Game News: Open BETA for Battleforge
Auckland, NZ – March 12, 2009 – Phenomic™, an Electronic Arts Inc (NASDAQ: ERTS) studio, today announced that the real-time strategy (RTS) game BattleForge™ will open its beta for all players today. Starting today, all players will be able to enter the genre-changing world of BattleForge and experience the thrill of virtual cards coming to life in epic, online RTS battles before the game goes live in New Zealand on March 27th, 2009.
The open beta players will have access to all 200 BattleForge cards and all maps in the game. Everyone who takes part in the beta will get the bonus, upgraded Firedancer unit that will be available after launch.
BattleForge combines fast-paced strategy with a digital trading card mechanic in a dynamic online environment. Players use virtual trading cards to build custom armies and lay waste to their foes. Combining the strategic, real-time gameplay of classics such as Command & ConquerTM with a fully enabled, online collectible community, BattleForge is a breath of fresh air in the strategy genre. With an all-new style of play that is more accessible for casual gamers, BattleForge also offers a rich, deep gameplay experience that veteran RTS players seek. The collectable cards are the tools of war -- each representing a spell, building or unit that is conjured directly onto the battlefield in stunning 3D graphics.
BattleForge features single-player scenarios and cooperative scenarios for 2 to 12 players, as well as Player vs. Player (PvP) ranked and unranked duels. With co-op play, guilds, chat rooms, and a robust marketplace featuring direct trade, an auction hall, and in-game mail, BattleForge is the first RTS to combine the social and community aspects of an MMO with an exciting RTS. Let the battles begin!
BattleForge ships in New Zealand on March 27th, 2009 for the PC. For more information, visit www.battleforge.com.
Posted by dee-zilla on Thursday, March 12, 2009 @ 11:53:40 New Zealand Daylight Time
Game News: [Part 2] History of WCG Official Games
Following the previous column, ''Brief History of WCG Official Game Titles-part I'', today we would like to start from 2006 up to present. From 2006 to 2008, it was another phase of evolution for WCG official game titles.
In 2006, WCG was held in Autodromo Nazionale Monza motor racing circuit, located in Italy. To celebrate the first Grand Final in a racing circuit, WCG committee brought back Project Gotham Racing 3 (Xbox 360). With the release of Xbox 360, the console platform was upgraded to bring gamers the latest and greatest in gaming technology. Counter-Strike returned back to 1.6 due to popular demand in the eSports community, and Warhammer was upgraded to its latest version yet again.
Two racing game titles in Monza motor racing circuit (WCG 2006 venue):
PGR 3 (Left) and NFS: Most Wanted (Right)
In WCG 2007, we saw a 50% increase in the number of titles from 8 to 12. The line-up was expanded to cover more genre that more gamers can enjoy. In 2007, Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War (PC) was excluded from the list, and the following five titles were added: Command & Conquer 3: Tiberium Wars (PC), Age of Empires III: The War Chiefs (PC), Billiard Game Carom 3D (PC), Gears of War (Xbox 360), and Tony Hawk's Project 8 (Xbox 360). RTS fans were treated with a whopping four titles. Adding to StarCraft and Warcraft, the very popular C&C, and the return of AOE was very much welcomed. Carom 3D marks history as the first billiard game to be selected as an official title in any eSports tournament. Also, a new genre of third person shooter (TPS) made an entry in WCG with Gear of War.
Representative TPS (Third Person shooting) Gears of War: WCG 2007 official title
The first billiard game which became WCG official title: Carom 3D
In 2008, the biggest change was the addition of mobile game as an official title. Asphalt 4 developed by GameLoft was added as an official title. The game runs on mobile phones and WCG platform was yet again expanded from just PC and console to cover mobile arena. PC games only changed in the way of latest version updates, but console games were majorly changed for WCG 2008. Gears of War was exchanged with Halo 3, and Dead or Alive 4 was changed with Virtua Fighter 5 for shooter and fighting genres. Skateboarding game Tony Hawk's Project 8 was totally removed, and a very popular rhythm game Guitar Hero III: Legend of Rock took its spot.
Red Stone (PC) Asphalt 4 (mobile)
Guitar Hero III: The Legend of Rock (Xbox 360)
Finally, year 2009 has come! World Cyber Games has announced the first five Official Game Titles for the WCG 2009 season. The lineup includes Counter-Strike™ 1.6 (PC), Starcraft®: Brood War™ (PC), WarCraft® III: The Frozen Throne™ (PC), and Guitar Hero®: World Tour (Xbox 360), and Virtua Fighter® 5 (Xbox 360). These first five titles constitute the best and most popular games in a wide variety of genres including real-time strategy, first-person shooter, fighting, and music. In March, fans can look forward to see another group of elite titles that will certainly satisfy every type of gamer around the world.
(From top Left) Starcraft®: Brood War™ (PC), WarCraft® III: The Frozen Throne™ (PC), Counter-Strike™ 1.6 (PC), Guitar Hero®: World Tour (Xbox 360), and Virtua Fighter® 5 (Xbox 360).
Second group of 2009 WCG official title will be announced Soon!
Posted by dee-zilla on Wednesday, March 11, 2009 @ 19:06:25 New Zealand Daylight Time
Game News: UT3 Titan Pack Unleashed
NinjaSock writes:
Unreal Tournament 3 is getting a hefty dose of updates today, including the previously revealed Titan Pack expansion. In addition to the expansion, Epic is also releasing a patch, bringing UT3 up to version 2.0, which will fix a host of issues with the game.
Some of the changes gamers can expect with the new patch include an overhauled user interface, client-side demo recording support, more advanced video options, Steam integration, among others. As for the Titan Pack expansion, it will introduce a bunch of new content into the shooter, all for the low, low price of free. Hit the jump for a complete list of the new additions to the game.
16 new maps + 3 bonus pack 1 maps
Titan mutator
Greed and Betrayal gametypes
Stinger Turret, Eradicator Cannon Artillery and the Stealthbender vehicle
X-Ray Field and Link Station Deployables
Slow-Field power-up (pickup version of the deployable of the same name)
Two new characters: Nova (Liandri) and Kana (Ronin)
57 Steam Achievements
Major enhancements, incuding AI, network performance, menu and UI, better mod support
Client-side demo recording, updated server browser, new maplist system, mid-game mutator and gametype voting functionality
The patch and expansion are available now on the PC and can be downloaded here. As for the PlayStation 3 version of the game, which will be getting the new content, we don't yet know when it will see the updates. However, it's possible that it will be ready to download later today. The Xbox 360 version unfortunately won't be receiving either update.
Posted by dee-zilla on Sunday, March 08, 2009 @ 00:20:02 New Zealand Daylight Time
Game News: [Part I] History of WCG Official Games
It's been a month after WCG announced the first five official games. Sooner, whole official titles of 2009 will be completed with announcement of additional official titles. At this juncture, WCG would like to look back and review the brief history of WCG official titles.
[Part I] 2001~2005
Started as World Cyber Games Challenge (WCGC) in 2000, WCG have become the largest video game festival in the world. As interest in WCG continues to grow around the globe, there are huge expectations and interests for WCG official titles selection. Recently, WCG announced the first batch of the official game titles for 2009. So, let's take a trip to the past and review the games from WCG 2001 and how the elite titles were selected to satisfy every type of gamers around the world.
In 2001, there were six official game titles, which all were based on PC platform: Age of Empires II: The Conqueror,
HALF-LIFE™: Counter-Strike, 2001 FIFA World Cup, StarCraft®: Brood War™, Unreal™ Tournament, and Quake III: Arena. Even though the line-up was very small compared to WCG 2008, it was a big step to become the biggest online festival.
In WCG 2002, the same titles were selected as WCG 2001. In 2003, the legendary RTS game, the game that enjoys the biggest fan-following around the world, WarCraft® III: Reign of Chaos™ was added. At the same time, Quake III: Arena was removed from the line-up. That wasn't the last time WCG played Quake though, as Quake 4 was chosen as an Invitational title for 2006. Unreal™ Tournament, Age of Empires II: The Conqueror, 2002 FIFA World Cup were all updated with their latest versions: Unreal™ Tournament 2004, Age of Empires II: The Age of Mythology, and FIFA 03.
Quake III: Various team play and attack formation is possible- WCG 2001, 2002 official title
The most notable change of WCG 2003 was that it was the first year that a console game was included. Halo, the Xbox game that sold more than 5 million copies worldwide, became the first official console game title of WCG.
The first official console game title of WCG: Halo (2003~2008)
In 2004, once again three titles received facelifts: HALF-LIFE™: Counter-Strike to Condition Zero, FIFA 2003 to FIFA 2004, Warcraft III to its expansion Warcraft III: The Frozen Throne. The most noticeable addition in WCG 2004 was the addition of racing genre. On the PC side Need for Speed: Underground and on the console side Project Gotham Racing II was added to keep the racing fans happy. To keep the number of titles down, unfortunately Age of Empires II had to be removed from the line-up, but Age of Empires fans do not have to worry as the game made a come-back with Age of Empires III in 2007. Pangya, an online golf game from Korea, was on display as exhibition title.
In 2005, Unreal™ Tournament (PC) was removed and a new popular RTS in the form of Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War (PC) was added. Another change was that Project Gotham Racing II was removed and Dead or Alive Ultimate, a fighting game, was added to create more variety in the genre selection. Counter-Strike and FIFA were both updated to the latest versions: Counter-Strike: Source and FIFA Soccer 2005.
Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War (PC): WCG 2005 Official Game Title
Xbox killer title Dead or Alive Ultimate became official WCG title in 2005
Is it interesting? Stay tuned, and part II will be available next week.
Posted by dee-zilla on Wednesday, March 04, 2009 @ 14:50:49 New Zealand Daylight Time
Game News: One Billion Served
NinjaSock writes:
Saturday night, at precisely 6:36pm PST, in a three minute and nineteen second game of Infection on Foundry, four players participated in Halo 3's one billionth match. That is a staggering number of matches, bearing in mind that this figure does not include any custom or forge games.
Halo 3 was released in September of 2007, meaning the game has accumulated this figure in the space of only 17 months. This is not overly surprising for a game that has sold over 8 million copies worldwide and had more than a million players on Xbox Live within the first 24 hours of release.
Halo is certainly not dying out either. With the Mythic map pack slated for public release later this week and Halo 3: ODST due later this year, along with Halo Wars dropping last week there is definitely no shortage of content for fans of the series.
Posted by dee-zilla on Wednesday, March 04, 2009 @ 01:29:54 New Zealand Daylight Time
Game News: 6 year anniversary for C&C Generals
NinjaSock writes:
In celebration of the sixth anniversary of the award-winning real-time strategy classic Command & Conquer Generals, EA Los Angeles are releasing an exclusive gift to Command & Conquer fans -- the lost mission of Command & Conquer Generals.
The never-before-seen and controversial Global Liberation Army mission was not included in the game’s original 2003 release and has been hidden and securely stored away in a secret location at the EA Los Angeles development studio until recently.
Black Sheep was originally slated to be the third mission in the Global Liberation Army campaign where players were given command of the Toxin Tractor, a slow-going farm vehicle modified to spray a deadly corrosive agent, and ordered to eliminate the town that had been corrupted beyond salvation by the USA's propaganda. While the mission was ultimately removed from Generals, the Toxin Tractor was available in other campaign missions, as well as in multiplayer and skirmish modes.
Posted by dee-zilla on Wednesday, March 04, 2009 @ 01:04:40 New Zealand Daylight Time
Game News: Coldplay in your place with “Lips”
Just in time for their New Zealand tour, “Lips” is set to debut its first downloadable song pack featuring Coldplay, who recently took home three GRAMMY awards including Best Rock Album.
Available worldwide on March 13th, the song pack will include three of Coldplay’s most famous pieces, including “The Scientist,” “Speed of Sound,” and “In My Place.” So, when Chris Martin has finished belting out the bands smash hits on stage at the Vector Arena, you can have your own Coldplay moment in your living room.
Also available on Xbox LIVE Marketplace and the “Lips” in-game Music Store until March 7 are nine fresh tracks from groups like The Fray, Angels and Airwaves, and 311.
Available Now!
Speed Up – Funkerman
How To Save A Life – The Fray
Swing Life Away – Rise Against
Available on 28/2
The Adventure – Angels and Airwaves
Amber – 311
In The Shadows – The Rasmus
Available on 7/3
Hook Me Up – The Veronicas
Lips of an Angel – Hinder
Shake It – Metro Station
Available on 13/3
The Scientist – Coldplay
Speed of Sound – Coldplay
In My Place – Coldplay
“Lips,” the new singing party game from Xbox 360 and iNiS, includes 40 songs on-disc and two wireless, motion-sensitive microphones. “Lips” is currently available at retailers for RRP $99.95.
Posted by dee-zilla on Friday, February 27, 2009 @ 12:02:04 New Zealand Daylight Time
Game News: Red for the launch of Resident Evil 5
Xbox paints the console red for the launch of Resident Evil 5
Microsoft today unveiled an Xbox 360® Resident Evil Limited Edition console bundle* to celebrate the landmark “Resident Evil” franchise coming to Xbox 360. Xbox 360 fans will be able to pick up the bundle, which features an exclusive red Xbox 360 on March 13.
For the recommended retail price of $596**, fans can enjoy the same premium Xbox 360 Elite experience for an even greater value with a copy of “Resident Evil 5,” matching Limited Edition red Wireless Controller, Xbox 360 Headset, a 120 GB Hard Drive, exclusive premium “Resident Evil 5” theme (download via Xbox LIVE), Street Fighter 2 download, and more. Supplies are very limited, so “Resident Evil” fans will want to pre-order to avoid disappointment.
The new two-player cooperative experience*** in “Resident Evil 5” is a perfect fit for Xbox LIVE.* With 17 million members and growing, Xbox LIVE connects “Resident Evil” fans and their new red Xbox 360 consoles to their friends on the couch or across the globe. To further provide a taste of the full entertainment experience available on Xbox LIVE, fans will also receive a bonus card to download the hit Xbox LIVE Arcade title from Capcom, “Super Street Fighter® ll Turbo HD Remix.”
*Red Xbox console available exclusively to EB Games & can be pre-ordered from today. For more information on the offer visit www.ebgames.co.nz
** The price you pay will be determined by the retailer. While stocks last, limited time only.
***Xbox LIVE Gold Membership required.
Posted by dee-zilla on Wednesday, February 25, 2009 @ 20:15:06 New Zealand Daylight Time
Game News: Square Enix Delivers Games to Users Via Steam
NinjaSock writes:
LOS ANGELES (February 24, 2009) — Square Enix, Inc., the publisher of Square Enix® interactive entertainment products in North America (Square Enix), and Valve Corporation (Valve), a developer of leading-edge technologies and software, announced today an agreement to bring Square Enix titles to customers worldwide via Steam®, Valve's leading platform for digital content distribution and management.
Beginning April 9, THE LAST REMNANT will be available for purchase via Steam, which makes PC games available online to more than 15 million users worldwide. An action RPG from the makers of the FINAL FANTASY® series, THE LAST REMNANT will be the first Square Enix game to utilize Steamworks and be distributed via Steam. Square Enix will continue to add to its roster of games on Steam, providing users with instant access - after purchase, they can download the game immediately and start playing. Pricing will be announced at a later date.
"We are excited to offer the millions of Steam customers online access to Square Enix titles beginning with our major action RPG, THE LAST REMNANT," said John Yamamoto, president and chief executive officer of Square Enix Inc. and Square Enix Ltd. "Square Enix is committed to delivering the best quality titles to PC gamers and distribution on Steam is one of the many steps we are taking to increase accessibility for fans in North America and PAL territories."
Once players have a Steam account, they can sign in from any PC to access their Steam-distributed Square Enix games. Because games are associated with their account and not their computer, players can get lost in the world of their favorite game anytime, anywhere.
"Square Enix is a fantastic addition to the Steam lineup," said Jason Holtman, director of business development at Valve. "We are thrilled that Square Enix chose to bring its diverse portfolio of titles to Steam and know that our customers will be ecstatic to hear this news."
For more information about Square Enix games coming to Steam, please visit www.steamgames.com.
Posted by dee-zilla on Wednesday, February 25, 2009 @ 16:45:30 New Zealand Daylight Time
Game News: Street Fighter IV, already 2 million shipped
NinjaSock writes:
Judging by the talk online, Capcom's Street Fighter IV is already a hit. The combination of updated graphics and new fighting mechanics, mixed in with the classic speed and solid game play of Street Fighter II, has been a critical hit across the board... but today Capcom is hinting that the game may already be a commercial success as well: the company has announced that it has shipped 2 million copies of the game so far.
The game has been released in Japan, North America, and Europe, and is available for the Xbox 360 and Sony PlayStation 3, with a PC version coming in June.
"The original Street Fighter was released in 1987, and was then followed up in 1991 by the legendary hit Street Fighter II," the company stated. "The series revolutionized combat systems in games, and established the fighting game genre. Since then, Street Fighter has been a global hit, selling over 500,000 arcade machines and 27 million console games."
While these numbers are impressive, we'll have to wait until the NPD numbers for February are released next month to see how well all those shipped copies sold, at least in the US. If early indications are pointing towards a trend however, it is probably safe to say Capcom has a hit on its hands.
Posted by dee-zilla on Wednesday, February 25, 2009 @ 15:44:37 New Zealand Daylight Time
Game News: PSP-4000 confirmed to have sliding screen
NinjaSock writes:
VG247 has learned that PSP-4000 does have a sliding front-screen, with a highly-trusted source confirming fresh details on the unannounced machine this morning.
PSP-4000 is not PSP2, but rather a “complete aesthetic overhaul” based on existing PSP tech.
Much is now known by some parties of the console, which will be announced at either GDC or E3 this year, but cards are currently being clutched very tightly to chests.
The revamp does have a sliding front-screen, and we’re assured the design being currently touted isn’t a million miles away from this now-infamous image.
Eurogamer rumoured PSP-4000 for a 2009 release in December last year, and our source confirmed this to be the case today.
Sony has constantly denied PSP2 is in the works: now you know why.
Rumour? This is not a test, Ringo. Comprendez vous?
February 23rd, 2009 @ 09:09. By Patrick Garratt.
Posted by dee-zilla on Wednesday, February 25, 2009 @ 15:36:52 New Zealand Daylight Time
Game News: G.I. JOE Set to Invade in 2009
EA CONFIRMS COVERT MISSION TO CREATE ACTION-PACKED G.I. JOE® VIDEO GAME
INSPIRED BY UPCOMING FILM FROM PARAMOUNT PICTURES,
SPYGLASS ENTERTAINMENT AND HASBRO
G.I. JOE Set to Invade All Major Video Game Platforms in 2009
Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ: ERTS) has announced that development is underway to bring Hasbro’s legendary G.I. JOE® brand to all major console and handheld gaming platforms in 2009 to coincide with the theatrical release of the G.I. JOE: THE RISE OF COBRA live-action movie from Paramount Pictures and Spyglass Entertainment, in association with Hasbro, which opens in theaters from August 7, 2009. EA will unveil a “first look” of the G.I. JOE® video game at Hasbro’s Showroom at Toy Fair on February 15-17, 2009 in New York City.
“As Hasbro and Paramount Pictures reignite the G.I. JOE® property this year with an all-new toy line and film, EA is excited to play a major role in bringing this icon of pop culture history to a new generation of enthusiasts through interactive gaming,” said Chip Lange, General Manager and Vice President of EA Hasbro. “G.I. JOE® offers exceptionally rich storylines and a cast of characters that lends itself incredibly well to creating an over-the-top action adventure video game that will thrill gamers as well as G.I. JOE® fans.”
For fans of all ages, 2009 is gearing up to become another watershed milestone in the timeless franchise by introducing even more new ways to engage, immerse and play within the G.I. JOE® universe. The G.I. JOE® video game will feature an exclusive storyline that picks up where the live-action movie leaves off, allowing players to re-create and re-live the greatest moments from the film, cartoon series and action figure toy line. The game will feature 12 G.I. JOE® characters, each with unique abilities and weapons. Adding to the adrenaline rush will be an intense single-screen co-op mode allowing two players to easily unite as a team in a classic struggle between good and evil as they work together to defeat the powers of the COBRA organization. The G.I. JOE® video game is under development for Xbox 360® videogame and entertainment system, PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system, Wii™, PlayStation®2, PSP® (PlayStation®Portable), Nintendo DS™, and mobile devices.
“G.I. JOE® has been an icon of action for 45 years,” said Mark Blecher, General Manager of Digital Gaming and Media at Hasbro. “EA has tapped the legacy of the G.I. JOE vs. COBRA saga to create an amazing interactive experience inspired by the movie, comic books, animated series and iconography that we hope will resonate with millions of fans.”
For more than four decades, G.I. JOE® has been one of the premiere brands in the history of boys' toys. Originating the term "action figure” in 1964, Hasbro’s G.I. JOE® brand ushered in a new play pattern that forever changed the scope of the toy industry. The G.I. JOE® brand made another revolutionary introduction in 1984 with the release of the G.I. JOE vs. COBRA toy line, which introduced a generation of boys to the heroic G.I. JOE® forces, led by Duke, and their epic struggle to defeat the evil COBRA organization. The G.I. JOE vs. COBRA saga featured a diverse cast of characters – both good and evil – that became a part of pop culture through Hasbro’s toy line, an animated television series and best-selling comic book franchise.
For more information about the G.I. JOE® video game and to sign up for updates, gijoe.ea.com
# # #
About the G.I. JOE THE RISE OF COBRA Film
Paramount Pictures and Spyglass Entertainment Present, In Association With Hasbro, A di Bonaventura Pictures Production of A Stephen Sommers Film: “G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra” starring Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje, Christopher Eccleston, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Byung Hun Lee, Sienna Miller, Rachel Nichols, Ray Park, Saïd Taghmaoui, Channing Tatum, Marlon Wayans and Dennis Quaid. The film is directed by Stephen Sommers. The story is by Michael B. Gordon and Stuart Beattie & Stephen Sommers. The screenplay is by Stuart Beattie and David Elliot & Paul Lovett. Based on Hasbro’s G.I. Joe® Characters. The film is produced by Lorenzo di Bonaventura, Brian Goldner and Bob Ducsay. The executive producers are Stephen Sommers, David Womark, Gary Barber, Roger Birnbaum and Erik Howsam. The director of photography is Mitchell Amundsen. The production designer is Edward Verreaux. The film editors are Bob Ducsay and Jim May. The costume designer is Ellen Mirojnick. The music is by Alan Silvestri. This film has not yet been rated.
Redwood City, California, is the world's leading interactive entertainment software company. Founded in 1982, the Company develops, publishes, and distributes interactive software worldwide for video game systems, personal computers, cellular handsets and the Internet. Electronic Arts markets its products under four brand names: EA SPORTSTM, EATM, EA SPORTS Freestyle TM and POGOTM. In fiscal 2008, EA posted GAAP net revenue of $3.67 billion and had 27 titles that sold more than one million copies. EA's homepage and online game site is www.ea.com. More information about EA's products and full text of press releases can be found on the Internet at http://info.ea.com.
About Paramount Pictures Corporation
Paramount Pictures Corporation (PPC), a global producer and distributor of filmed entertainment, is a unit of Viacom (NYSE: VIA, VIA.B), a leading content company with prominent and respected film, television and digital entertainment brands. The company's labels include DW Studios, Paramount Pictures, Paramount Vantage, Paramount Classics, MTV Films and Nickelodeon Movies. PPC operations also include Paramount Digital Entertainment, Paramount Famous Productions, Paramount Home Entertainment, Paramount Pictures International, Paramount Licensing Inc., Paramount Studio Group, and Worldwide Television Distribution.
EA, EA SPORTS, EA SPORTS Freestyle, and Pogo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Electronic Arts Inc. in the U.S. and/or other countries. G.I. JOE and all related characters are trademarks of Hasbro and are used with permission. Nintendo DS and Wii are trademarks of Nintendo. Microsoft, Xbox and Xbox 360 are trademarks of the Microsoft group of companies. “PlayStation”, “PLAYSTATION” and PSP are registered trademarks of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
Posted by dee-zilla on Tuesday, February 17, 2009 @ 18:00:38 New Zealand Daylight Time
Game News: Record numbers for Halo Wars demo
Halo Wars demo on Xbox LIVE sees record download numbers
New video documentary released
Anticipation around the upcoming release of Halo Wars is mounting. The demo, released on Xbox LIVE on February 6th quickly set the day-one record for the most demo downloads on the service.
In its first five days, the demo has been downloaded by more than two million Xbox LIVE Gold members around the world.
The Halo Wars demo introduces players to the game’s groundbreaking control scheme through two tutorials, gives a taste of the epic story with the first two campaign missions, and enables people to experience the intense, competitive action offered via one of the game’s 14 Skirmish maps. The demo is now available to Xbox LIVE Silver members.
New Halo Wars content doesn’t stop there, as the third video documentary in an exciting seven-part video series, titled “Strategy on Xbox” is available today. The team behind Halo Wars invites you to see how the game was conceived and how they cracked strategy games for the console. This latest episode also provides insider tips so players can fully realise the devastating potential of the UNSC and Covenant units at their command. Just released today, the newest episode of the Halo Wars video documentary series is available for download on Xbox LIVE Marketplace or can be viewed at http://www.xbox.com/en-NZ/games/h/halowars/ or HaloWars.com.
Posted by dee-zilla on Monday, February 16, 2009 @ 13:01:39 New Zealand Daylight Time
Game News: Guitar Hero 3 ''Guinness World Record''
Guitar Hero 3 ''Guinness World Record'' was set by a 14 year old boy- Who is he?
"There's also a new world record to wonder at, though you are allowed to wonder about the sense of setting the record itself if you prefer. Danny Johnson, a 14-year-old from Grapevine, Texas, set a Guitar Hero record Wednesday morning for his 973,954 score -- a 99% completion rate on Expert Level -- for shredding along to "Through the Fire and Flames" by DragonForce." (Source from betanews)
The news of a 14 year old boy putting his name on Guinness record surely got WCG's attention. It was especially because he was not a familiar face. Most of well known players can be found in WCG Grand Final, and his name was not recognizable at first glance. Maybe he's too young for now. Yet, We couldn't stop thinking...
''Who is this Guy, Anyway? Is he known in the community?''
WCG contacted the head referee of Guitar Hero 3 for some answers. Thomas Clarke (aka JYN) from new Zealand helped us to figure that out. So, here it is!
Danny Johnson [Phenom Man]
This guy, Danny Johnson, seems very amazing. Yet, WCG has not heard from him so far. Is he well known in the Guitar Hero community?
Phenom Man? An amazing player straight out of Texas, superb reflexes at such a prime young age of 14, known and famous for not only holding the Guiness World Record for the highest ever officially recorded score in Guitar Hero history - but for being the first person to 100% [FC] every song in Guitar Hero III as per his YouTube and ScoreHero pages. (http://www.scorehero.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=76780) *FC: Short for Full Combo. Full combo is achieved by hitting every note in a song perfectly.
Is there a chance that he will come for the Grand Final 2009?
I do hope so, due to him being 14 in the time being, it is hard to say as schooling, consent and international factors come in to play - but with such an extraordinary talent - you could say he's an unstoppable force to be reckoned with and it would be awesome to see the Phenom Man
Is there any well known legendary guitar hero players beside this guy?
All though there may not be other Guiness World Record holders in the game, but there are some amazing players - just like those in the Grand Final of 2008 in Cologne, Germany: TI Monkey75 (UkogMonkey) the Grand Final Winner; Lo7 (Loseven) the Second placed winner, and so very many more. Some of my Guitar Hero icons include; PriestMLH (PriestREA), WulFe79, witwix and TwilightNights/TwilightDawn!
Who has the strongest chance on the Grand final 2009?
Being a referee it's an opinion i will keep to myself, at this stage it is deffinitely open right up to a huge competition, with Guitar Hero: World Tour being such a different game from Guitar Hero 3, we will see a lot of challenge and it's going to be by large and far, the biggest and most fun event ever before held at the World Cyber Games, and i can't wait to be a part of it. All the best to every competitor all around the world, do your best and i look forward to seeing you there!
If there's any cool VODs related to guitar hero 3, please share it with us.
I would always advise anyone and everyone with even a slightest love for GH to check out www.scorehero.com and join the community. It's full of professional and amateur Guitar Hero gamers alike, with practically every song documented with tonnes of great FCs and challenges between great players. Tips, guides and strategies on how to become the best - just like PhenomMan.
To finish off, a massive congratulations to Danny Johnson, you have proved to be the phenom man in true Guitar Hero style by being the first ever to FC every single Guitar Hero song in Guitar Hero 3 - it is such an amazing feat. and you have the entire GH world looking up at you with either unsustainable envy or pure astonishment and awe. 100% looking forward to WCG China 2009.
Posted by dee-zilla on Friday, February 13, 2009 @ 21:36:48 New Zealand Daylight Time
Game News: Exclusively with Grand Theft Auto IV and more...
Exclusively with Grand Theft Auto IV and The Lost and Damned
Xbox are excited to announce that for the first time ever, starting Wednesday, February 18 at 6:00am (NZT), the Xbox LIVE multiplayer service, usually reserved for Xbox LIVE Gold members, will be accessible to all LIVE members while playing Grand Theft Auto IV or The Lost and Damned -- the first exclusive downloadable expansion episode on Xbox 360.
This limited, Grand Theft Auto multiplayer promotion is applicable only to players of either Grand Theft Auto IV or The Lost and Damned expansion episode, and will end on Monday, February 23 (8:59pm NZT). Be a part of this unprecedented event and join the legions of Grand Theft Auto fans across the world to wreak havoc upon Liberty City.
To help gamers get the most from their multiplayer access, Rockstar Games and Xbox LIVE are putting on a week of special events with the chance to take on Hip Hop DJ and producer, Statik Selektah in a special ‘Game with Fame’ event and even take on the people behind the Grand Theft Auto franchise in a ‘Game with Rockstar’ multiplayer event. Sweepstake promotions and an ‘Xbox All Nighter’ will also be part of the week of activities, full details and eligibility can be found at www.xbox.com/lostanddamnedliveweek.
Grand Theft Auto IV: The Lost and Damned will be available for download exclusively through Xbox LIVE beginning February 18 for 1600 Microsoft Points. Tokens will also be available at retail through JB Hi-Fi for $34.95 RRP. “Grand Theft Auto IV: The Lost and Damned” is the first exclusive downloadable add-on episode from Rockstar Games, extending the “Grand Theft Auto IV” saga for Xbox 360 owners as they take control of Johnny Klebitz to complete missions around the streets of Liberty City. If you’re not already a member of Xbox LIVE, now is the time to join.
Don’t miss the new trailer from “The Lost and Damned” to see Johnny and The Lost motorcycle club take on the tough underworld of Liberty City – coming Thursday worldwide and in HD on Xbox LIVE.
Posted by dee-zilla on Wednesday, February 11, 2009 @ 14:01:02 New Zealand Daylight Time
Game News: Dice Announces Battlefield Bad Company 2
DICE ANNOUNCES BATTLEFIELD: BAD COMPANY 2
Before Rejoining the ‘B’ Company, Players Go Back to WWII in Battlefield 1943
Auckland – February 9, 2009 – DICE, an Electronic Arts Inc. studio (NASDAQ: ERTS), today announced Battlefield: Bad Company 2™, the sequel to last year’s blockbuster title. In this instalment, the Bad Company crew again find themselves in the heart of the action, where they must use every weapon and vehicle at their disposal to survive. The action unfolds with unprecedented intensity, introducing a level of fervor to vehicular warfare never before experienced in a modern warfare action game. To get ready for the assault, players can prepare for action in Battlefield 1943™, an all-new multiplayer game available via PlayStation®Store, Xbox LIVE™ Marketplace and on the PC.
In Battlefield: Bad Company 2, the ‘B’ company fight their way through snowy mountaintops, dense jungles and dusty villages. With a heavy arsenal of deadly weapons and a slew of vehicles to aid them, the crew set off on their mission and they are ready to blow up, shoot down, blast through, wipe out and utterly destroy anything that gets in their way. Total destruction is the name of the game, delivered as only the DICE next generation Frostbite™ engine can. Either online or offline, enemies will soon learn there is nowhere to hide. Battlefield: Bad Company 2 will be available for the Xbox 360® videogame and entertainment system, the PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system and the PC.
Using the same Frostbite™ engine, Battlefield 1943 takes players back to WWII. The game offers endless hours of 24 player multiplayer action over three classic and tropic locations; Wake Island, Guadalcanal and Iwo Jima. Delivering the award-winning through-the-gun and vehicle warfare online experience DICE is best recognized for, Battlefield 1943 will have players battling in ruthless aerial dog fights and intense trench combat.
“Bad Company 2 takes everything that players liked in the original and ups the ante – more vehicles, more destruction and more team play,” said Karl Magnus Troedsson, Executive Producer Battlefield Franchise, DICE. “Battlefield 1943 is a new take on a blast from the past classic coming to life with brand new technology that we’re eager to get into players hands.”
To sign-up for the Battlefield Heroes™ beta, players can visit www.battlefield-heroes.com. For more information on DICE, please visit www.dice.se or www.ea.com. For more information on the Battlefield franchise please visit: www.battlefield.com.
Posted by dee-zilla on Monday, February 09, 2009 @ 21:51:18 New Zealand Daylight Time
Game News: New SHIP date for The Sims 3
EA announces New SHIP date for The Sims 3
Highly-Anticipated PC Game from Best-selling PC Franchise Slated to Ship in New Zealand on June 5, 2009
AUCKLAND, NZ, February 4, 2009 – Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ: ERTS) today announced that The Sims™ 3, the highly-anticipated flagship game from the best-selling PC franchise, The Sims will launch across the PC, Mac, iPhone, iPod Touch and mobile devices mid-year 2009. The Sims 3 PC will ship to store shelves worldwide starting June 2, 2009.
“The Sims 3 is an incredible game that lets you play with life, create art and show off your creations,” said Ben Bell, Executive Producer, The Sims 3. “In the game, players are inspired by endless creative possibilities like the new Traits and Lifetime Wish features which allow players to create Sims with real personalities and destinies. Players can then take their Sim into town to interact with other Sims in the game and capture the action on video to show off online.” *
“The June launch combined with the break-through game the team is building gives us the perfect runway to create awareness for The Sims 3,” said Russell Arons, Vice President of Marketing for EA. “The Sims 3 will be the original IP summer blockbuster of 2009 as we build off the success of the best-selling PC franchise of all time to create awareness with both loyal Sims fans and new players.”
For more information about The Sims 3, please go to www.TheSims3.com.The Sims 3, developed by The Sims Studio, is also in development for Mac, iPhone, iPod Touch and mobile devices. To download artwork, please visit www.info.ea.com.
* INTERNET CONNECTION required. See product pack for details.
About The Sims 3
Get inspired by the endless creative possibilities and unexpected moments of surprise and mischief in The Sims 3! Customize your Sims’ appearances and choose up to five traits to create individual personalities. From the “Romantic” trait or “kleptomaniac” trait to “evil” trait, create millions of unique Sims from the vast amount of personalities. New goal-oriented game play enables you to choose which short or long-term objectives you want your Sims to pursue and even determine your Sims’ destinies in life. Create and edit your own movies by capturing your gameplay moments or select from a library of clips. Then join The Sims 3 online community where you can show off all of your creations, get free bonus content, hear the latest news, and more! Download exclusive content and hear the latest news of The Sims 3 at www.TheSims3.com.
About The Sims
The Sims franchise celebrates an impressive over 100 million units sold since its launch in February 2000. Now translated into 22 different languages and available in 60 different countries, The Sims quickly has become a universal gaming and cultural phenomenon. For the latest information about The Sims and to check out the hottest creations for The Sims 2 made by our community members, please visit www.TheSims2.com.
About Electronic Arts
Redwood City, California, is the world's leading interactive entertainment software company. Founded in 1982, the Company develops, publishes, and distributes interactive software worldwide for video game systems, personal computers, cellular handsets and the Internet. Electronic Arts markets its products under four brand names: EA SPORTSTM, EATM, EA SPORTS FreestyleTM and POGOTM. In fiscal 2008, EA posted GAAP net revenue of $3.67 billion and had 27 titles that sold more than one million copies. EA's homepage and online game site is www.ea.com. More information about EA's products and full text of press releases can be found on the Internet at http://info.ea.com.
EA, EA SPORTS, EA SPORTS Freestyle, POGO and The Sims are trademarks or registered trademarks of Electronic Arts Inc. in the U.S. and/or other countries. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
Posted by dee-zilla on Thursday, February 05, 2009 @ 12:04:16 New Zealand Daylight Time
Game News: Meet the Spartans of “Halo Wars”
Meet the Spartans of “Halo Wars”
“Expanding the Arsenal” episode of the “Halo Wars” behind-the-scenes video documentary series
now available
Microsoft Game Studios and Ensemble Studios invite everyone to meet the Spartans of “Halo Wars” and the powerful units they will have at their command in the exciting new action strategy game for Xbox 360. In the second episode of the “Halo Wars” video documentary series titled “Expanding the Arsenal,” fans can continue their behind the scenes journey with the game’s creators as they explore the unique features of key units and their special battle capabilities.
Just released today, the newest episode of the “Halo Wars” video documentary series is available for download on Xbox LIVE and ProSource, and can be viewed at http://www.xbox.com/en-NZ/games/h/halowars/.
“Halo Wars” is rated PG by the Office of Film and Literature Classification Board, and will be available starting Feb. 26 in New Zealand. A demo will be available on Xbox LIVE starting Feb. 5 in all LIVE enabled regions worldwide. For more information, visit http://www.xbox.com/en-NZ/games/h/halowars/or HaloWars.com.
Posted by dee-zilla on Wednesday, February 04, 2009 @ 11:15:15 New Zealand Daylight Time
Game News: New Genres for Need For Speed
Need For Speed franchise Races into New Genres
Global Studio Teams Drive Quality and Innovation in New Games
Auckland – February3, 2009 – Fifteen years; more than 40 countries; close to 100 million games sold. Need for Speed™ has helped to define automotive culture for millions of fans with its embrace of the car lifestyle and its cool rebellious attitude. Today, Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ:ERTS) unveiled the details of what is in store for the franchise over the next 12 months, as the property expands to new platforms, new categories and new media.
Need for Speed is committed to providing unique and customized experiences for all types of racing fans by establishing three independent series; simulation, action and arcade racing. Each series will be developed by a highly-specialized team dedicated to delivering the ultimate racing experiences to car enthusiasts around the world – whether they be interested in adrenaline action, arcade fun or authentic simulation.
“We recognize racing videogamefans are very passionate and unique -- they want customized gameplay experiences. Whether it’s more of a realistic driving game with accurate car physics or over-the-top cop chases, we are making different games for different audiences,” said Keith Munro, vice president of marketing, Need for Speed. “Each game provides a deep, engaging and rich racing experience. We’re giving players the option to choose the best racing title that suits their style of gameplay.”
Need for Speed SHIFT (New Zealand)
Shift into high gear! Designed to deliver a true driver’s experience that reflects contemporary motorsports, Need for Speed SHIFT is built by racers for racers. Need for Speed SHIFT delivers an authentic and immersive driving experience developed by Slightly Mad Studios in collaboration with executive producer Michael Mann at Black Box and senior vice president Patrick Soderlund at EA Games Europe. Slightly Mad Studios includes developers and designers that worked on the critically acclaimed games GT Legends and GTR 2. Need for Speed SHIFT replicates the true feeling of racing high-end performance cars like never before. Players are thrust into the heart of the action with immersive and exciting features including a stunningly realistic first-person cockpit view camera and an all-new crash mechanic, providing an unrivaled sensation of the speed and feeling of racing a car on the extreme edge of control.
Soderlund is also part of a racing team that recently competed in the 4th edition of the TOYO TIRES 24H Dubai 2009, the first major race event of the year. His team ranked #5 in the high-profile race. Soderlund and the SHIFT development team are committed to bringing the on-the-track experience to players across the world.
Need for Speed SHIFT will be released on PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system, Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system, PSP® (PlayStation® Portable) and PC in Spring 2009.
Need for Speed NITRO (Working Title) – Spring 2009 (New Zealand)
Developed by EA Montreal, Need for Speed NITRO for Wii™ and Nintendo DS™ will have players of all skill levels hooked from the moment they get into the action, while arcade racing fans will be exhilarated by the deep and challenging gameplay. EA Montreal has already established a strong track record of developing for these platforms and will bring their unique creativity and innovation to the Need for Speed franchise.
Gamers can build up their boost as they drift and drag behind their opponents and use it strategically to change the course of the race, but watch out for the cops! Offering a fresh and unique visual style, the game features a variety of licensed cars which can be fully customized to let the game reflect the player’s taste and personality. This evolutionary take on arcade racing, bringing back the best features found in Need for Speed games, comes exclusively to the Nintendo platforms this Spring.
EA will have more news about the Need for Speed franchise in the months ahead.
For more information on the Need for Speed franchise, please visit: www.needforspeed.com
Posted by dee-zilla on Tuesday, February 03, 2009 @ 13:56:29 New Zealand Daylight Time
Game News: EA and Starbreeze Studios
LUDLUM ENTERTAINMENT GRANTS EA THE EXCLUSIVE VIDEO GAME LICENSE FOR THE WORKS OF ROBERT LUDLUM
EA and Starbreeze Studios Working on All-New Jason Bourne Title
Auckland – February 3rd, 2009 – Ludlum Entertainment has granted Electronic Arts, Inc (NASDAQ: ERTS) the exclusive worldwide license to create video games based on the works of Robert Ludlum, including the blockbuster JasonBourne series. The first game to be released as part of the multi-year agreement is based on Jason Bourne and is currently in development with Starbreeze Studios in Uppsala, Sweden.
“Robert Ludlum’s Jason Bourne is the most exciting action hero to emerge in decades, thrilling audiences around the world,” said Mike Quigley, group vice president of marketing, EA Games Label. “EA is excited to enter into a long-term relationship with Ludlum Entertainment, bringing the action, intrigue and intensity of Robert Ludlum’s fiction to life for casual and core gamers around the globe.”
“The continued global popularity of Robert Ludlum’s works is a testament to the care he lavished on his characters and storylines,” said Jeffrey Weiner, chairman and CEO of Ludlum Entertainment and executor of the Ludlum estate. “Robert Ludlum made thrilling stories accessible and real. EA has brought that same level of realism to the gaming world. We are confident EA‘s unparalleled production ability and marketing reach will establish the Jason Bourne Series in games as powerfully and successfully as it exists in books and film.”
Ludlum Entertainment recently entered into a production deal with Universal Studios to produce films based on the dozens of books in the Robert Ludlum library, as well as films outside the library. The company currently has films in development at Universal, MGM, Paramount and with Summit Entertainment.
Video game veteran Matt Wolf will work with EA to oversee the creative development, production and positioning of the Ludlum Entertainment games portfolio. Ludlum entertainment was represented in the transaction by Keith Boesky of Boesky & Company.
For more information, please visit EA’s press Web site at http://info.ea.com
###
About Ludlum Entertainment Ludlum Entertainment was created to exploit the multi-platform potential of the works of the prolific, best-selling author Robert Ludlum. Ludlum’s stories, including the Jason Bourne and Covert One series, are set on a global stage and feature multiple interlocking storylines, making them ideal for expression across a wide range of mediums, including books, video games, film and television. His books have sold more than 290 million copies globally and have been translated into 32 languages since 1971. The Jason Bourne movies, starring Matt Damon, have grossed nearly $1 billion worldwide to date. Ludlum Entertainment and Universal Pictures recently entered into a long-term agreement which gives Universal the exclusive rights to continue making films based on the Jason Bourne character.
About Starbreeze Studios
Starbreeze is a videogame developer based in Uppsala, Sweden. The studio was founded in 1998 and currently employs a staff of 95. The team has developed numerous action/adventure games, including 2004’s "The Chronicles of Riddick: Escape from Butcher Bay" (Xbox and PC) which reached a 90% Metacritic rating, and 2007’s "The Darkness" (Xbox 360 and PLAYSTATION®3) which reached an 82% Metacritic rating.
About Electronic Arts
Electronic Arts Inc. (EA), headquartered in Redwood City, California, is the world's leading interactive entertainment software company. Founded in 1982, the Company develops, publishes, and distributes interactive software worldwide for video game systems, personal computers, cellular handsets and the Internet. Electronic Arts markets its products under four brand names: EA SPORTSTM, EATM, EA SPORTS Freestyle TM and POGOTM. In fiscal 2008, EA posted GAAP net revenue of $3.67 billion and had 27 titles that sold more than one million copies. EA's homepage and online game site is www.ea.com. More information about EA's products and full text of press releases can be found on the Internet at http://info.ea.com.
Posted by dee-zilla on Tuesday, February 03, 2009 @ 13:46:49 New Zealand Daylight Time
Game News: Skate 2 Released
EA Continues to Raise the Bar with the Latest Addition to Its Genre-Defining Franchise
Auckland – January 22, 2009 – Black Box, an Electronic Arts Inc. studio (NASDAQ: ERTS) announced that the highly-anticipated Skate 2 has been released in New Zealand. Skate 2 ups the ante in delivering all the grit, creativity and culture of skateboarding with all-new tricks that allow players to truly skate it their way – on and off the board.
“Skate 2 is the perfect next chapter for the Skate franchise,” said Executive Producer, Scott Blackwood. “We expanded and deepened our original ideas and incorporated feedback straight from our passionate fans. With all new features, more challenges and a rich world, the game continues to celebrate skateboarding, while still innovating the genre in an unparalleled way.”
Skate 2 delivers the white-knuckle, camera shuddering speeds that players crave with breakneck death races. The new Thrasher Hall of Meat mode is the answer for gamers who find spine-tingling enjoyment in bone-crushing wipeouts and bails. For players simply looking for skateboarding action, Skate 2 lets them show-off their style like a pro. Equipped with double the bag of tricks and the ability to get off the board to move objects around, players can now create their own epic skate spots which can then be shared and experienced by others around the world.
Skate 2 is developed by Black Box, in Vancouver, British Columbia and will be available on the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system and the PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system. The game is rated M.
Posted by dee-zilla on Thursday, January 22, 2009 @ 18:02:01 New Zealand Daylight Time
Game News: Kiwis lap up video games
AUCKLAND, New Zealand, 22 January 2008 – A bumper Christmas for video gaming has pushed the total number of consoles sold in NZ to more than 830,000.
Market research company GfK Retail and Technology started tracking New Zealand console numbers in 2003, and figures show that despite economic concerns in 2008, the NZ console market has shown growth of around 15 per cent, with more than 177,000 consoles sold in New Zealand last year.
“Multiple generations are gaming - and research shows that people are increasingly looking for 'active relaxation' activities like video gaming, as opposed to sitting in front of the television, or 'passive relaxation'." says Xbox NZ category manager, Tom Hunt.
Hunt says Xbox 360 sold more than 10,000 consoles in December alone, taking total NZ sales to almost 90,000. He attributes the strong sales to a number of factors; the price point that Xbox 360 is now offered at; growing broadband uptake that lets gamers play online; and an international trend that shows people are spending money on home entertainment, rather than on bigger ticket items or travel.
Hunt expects sales to remain strong in 2009 and predicts more people will connect their consoles to the internet than ever before.
“Our online component - Xbox LIVE - lets you play against friends, download content, and stream media throughout your house. As broadband take-up increases, so does the take-up of Xbox LIVE – more than half of Kiwi households who own an Xbox 360 are on LIVE, and globally we have more than 17 million members.” In New Zealand alone, Xbox 360 owners have spent a total of 3.8 million hours on the Xbox LIVE network during 2008, he says.
Xbox 360 has sold almost 90,000 consoles in New Zealand to date, making the Xbox 360 the number one next-generation console in New Zealand.
Starting at the recommended retail price of $349 NZ, Xbox 360 is the lowest-priced next-generation console with the most games available.
Local facts*
· ‘Gears of War 2’ was the number one selling next-generation game in November-December 2008.
· More than 50 per cent of Kiwi Xbox 360 owners are connected to Xbox LIVE.
· New Zealand Xbox LIVE membership increased by 86 per cent on 2007.
· Worldwide over 28 million Xbox 360 consoles have been sold and over 17 million people are connected to Xbox LIVE.
· Kiwis spent over 3.8 million hours on Xbox LIVE in 2008.
· Xbox 360 owners have an average of nearly eight games for their console.
· 63 per cent of the 500 games available for Xbox 360 are rated G or PG.
Posted by dee-zilla on Thursday, January 22, 2009 @ 17:00:34 New Zealand Daylight Time
Game News: Microsoft and Lionhead bring you....
Free content update and all new Knothole Island Premium Theme also available from Xbox LIVE Marketplace
AUCKLAND - January 14, 2009 - Since the local launch of "Fable II" on October 23, more than two million gamers worldwide have embarked on a quest to reshape the world of Albion in the image of their hero, whilst the creators of Albion have been hard at work to bring Knothole Island to heroes worldwide.
This new world is available today over the Xbox LIVE Marketplace for 800 Microsoft points and includes new quests, weapons, and specialty shops available on this mysterious isle off the coast of Albion, as well as new quirky characters that inhabit it.
In addition to the Knothole Island premium download, players everywhere are able to enhance their "Fable II" experience with a separate free content update* exclusively available on Xbox LIVE Marketplace. The update will grant players access to some gifts from the fine people of Knothole Island and will enable them to continue the co-op action with their friends. Gifts include Knight's Boots, Assassins Gloves, a special Weight Loss Potion, a collectable silver book and more.
As an additional post-holiday treat for "Fable II" fans, Lionhead Studios and Microsoft Game Studios have created an all-new Knothole Island Premium Theme for the New Xbox Experience, available for 250 Microsoft points. Voyage over to Xbox LIVE Marketplace or Marketplace on the Web at http://www.xbox.com/en-nz/ to download the theme.
And, if all of that isn't enough you can check out the latest installment of the Lionhead Studio's Video Diary Series, Video Diary Episode 8 on Xbox LIVE Marketplace, where the developers offer a sneak preview of Knothole Island and reveal some of the challenges faced in the final days of making "Fable II". You can also check out Episode 8 at www.lionhead.com.
* The free content update must be manually downloaded from Xbox LIVE. This update is included in the Knothole Island premium downloadable content pack, so players that purchase the Knothole Island do not need to separately download the content update. Internet charges apply.
Posted by dee-zilla on Wednesday, January 14, 2009 @ 15:18:06 New Zealand Daylight Time
Game News: Videos of EA Play are Uploaded
The Videos from EA Play 08 are now uploaded to our youtube channel.
It’s worth watching the interview with John Doyle the producer of the upcoming Need for Speed Undercover, then watch a later conversation about car models and how the motor industries gets quite involved.
We got to have a good interview with the newly appointed Sims ambassador for New Zealand Kimberley Crossman well known for her role as Sophie McKay in Shortland Street.
Also some we have a quick look at Warhammer online, Mercenaries 2 and the new titles from the EA Sports.
Posted by dee-zilla on Friday, September 26, 2008 @ 00:24:14 New Zealand Standard Time
Game News: Microsoft has unveils BlueTrack
Microsoft has unveiled a new optical technology “bluetrack” for the humble mouse and showcased some of the new products utilizing it in a press function today. It was touted as a replacement for laser and will even relegate standard optical mice to the lower end of the market, not only that they claimed it could work on just about ANY surface (Except Glass and Mirrors) with ease.
We were lucky enough to get some hands on time with a couple of upcoming products that utilize this new technology, the Microsoft Explorer and Explorer Mini Mouse. With all the hype I must say had a level of skepticism as I have seen many promises made in regards to mice but I was proved wrong! These mice surprised me with the precision feel of a laser and the speed of an optical and it really did work on surfaces from carpet to marble.
To make this all possible Bluetrack uses a Microsoft proprietary image sensor and has a image beam four times larger than most other mice on the market, this allows the capture of a larger image and a better reflection of the mousing surface. If you are interested to find out more about the technology watch this video with the engineering manager.
With the recent announcement that the Sidewinder X8 will utilizing this technology it will be a product that gamers will watch closely to see if it can provide them that added edge, however with a release date in March 2009 it won’t be part of this year’s shopping list but the Microsoft Explorer and Explorer Mini Mouse are released in December ready for the Xmas stocking.
Posted by dee-zilla on Thursday, September 25, 2008 @ 21:45:04 New Zealand Standard Time
Game News: EA Play Event
We had the pleasure of attending EA Play last night in Auckland; EA Play is New Zealand’s best game release party that showcases up and coming games from the EA line-up due before Christmas, We will be uploading some cool videos and interviews tonight.
Be sure to lookout for the chat we had with John Doyle the Producer for Need for Speed, we also had a chat to Kimberly Crossman you will know her as Sophie McKay from Shortland Street she is currently The Sims Ambassador for EA. Plus heaps more footage!!
Besure to check out xlanvideos and a full write will be written tonight.
Posted by dee-zilla on Thursday, September 25, 2008 @ 10:43:42 New Zealand Standard Time
Game News: Rockband is coming!!!
After much anticipation – EA New Zealand today announces ROCKBAND is coming to retail shelves next month!
Auckland, NZ – 22nd, September, 2008 – Harmonix, the leading developer of music-based games, and MTV Games, a division of Viacom’s MTV Networks (NYSE: VIA, VIA.B), along with distribution partner Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ: ERTS), today announced that Rock Band will be available for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, PLAYSTATION®3 and PlayStation®2 computer entertainment systems and Wii™ beginning 31st October, 2008.
Rock Band is the all-new platform for music fans and gamers to interact with music. The game challenges players to put together a band and tour for fame and fortune, mastering lead/bass guitar, drums and vocals. With more master recordings than any other music game, Rock Band features some of the world’s biggest rock artists and spans every genre of rock ranging from alternative and classic rock to heavy metal and punk.
Rock Band also features an unprecedented library of more than 200 songs available for purchase and download for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system and PLAYSTATION 3 system. In the near future, all new Rock Band downloadable contentwill be available on a weekly basis. For a complete list of Rock Band songs available for purchase to date, please go to http://www.rockband.com/dlc.
Since its North American release in 2007, Rock Band hasgarnered more than 40 awards including Game Critics Award: Best of Show E3 2007and three awards at The 11th Annual Interactive Achievement Awards including Outstanding Innovation in Gaming, Family Game of the Year, and Outstanding Achievement in a Soundtrack.
Posted by dee-zilla on Monday, September 22, 2008 @ 15:01:35 New Zealand Standard Time
Game News: Microsoft reveals new SideWinder Gear
Microsoft launches SideWinder X6 Keyboard - the first-ever switchable gaming keyboard
Microsoft also reveals the new SideWinder X5 Mouse
Yesterday at the Games Convention in Leipzig, Germany, Microsoft ® Hardware debuted the SideWinder™ X6 Keyboard. The most versatile gaming keyboard on the market, the X6 is the first gaming keyboard with a switchable key pad that can be attached to the left or right side of the keyboard for ultimate flexibility.
To round out the SideWinder™ line, the Hardware team also launched the SideWinder™ X5 Mouse, a fast, powerful gaming mouse designed to give mainstream gamers that competitive edge.
The switchable key pad makes the SideWinder™ X6 Keyboard ideal for gaming as well as productivity. The key pad is a standard number pad in normal keyboard mode, but becomes a programmable macro pad in game mode. Complementing the adaptability of the X6 keyboard are features specifically designed for gaming, including the capacity to store up to 90 macros per game and backlighting that helps gamers get into the gaming frame of mind.
Customised for you
The SideWinder™ X6 Keyboard’s switchable key pad allows gamers to program up to 90 macros per game with the help of a set of dedicated macro keys as well as a fully programmable key pad. The X6 also offers the following features to take advantage of its adaptability:
Mode switching lets gamers manually toggle the keyboard from standard mode to either of two gaming modes. LEDs show the selected mode.
Automatic profile switching detects the application that is running and applies the custom profile.
Designed for Gaming
The SideWinder™ X6 Keyboard is more than a standard keyboard - it was built with gamers in mind, to give them the edge over the competition. To complement this versatility, the keyboard has the following additional features to produce the ultimate gaming accessory:
New Cruise Control feature continues an action without having to hold down the key or keys assigned to the action. Gamers can use Cruise Control with up to four keys at a time.1
In-game macro record button lets gamers record any sequence of keystrokes — even standard chat messages. Macros are stored on the PC hard drive and can be easily shared.
WASD gaming keys, the most commonly used keys for gamers, have front-face lighting for enhanced visibility.
Quick-Launch key gives one-touch access to Windows Vista Games Explorer, allowing gamers to quickly see the games in their PC’s game library.2
Set the mood, Gamers can now enjoy a heightened experience when adsorbed in a game. The two-colour adjustable backlighting helps set the mood. The red backlighting indicates standard keys that are not programmable, while the amber colour indicates custom-programmable macro keys in game mode that can be tuned to the gamers’ preference.
Media keys, the X6 also includes full media keys and volume and backlighting control dials to fine-tune the gaming experience.
“The Sidewinder X6 Keyboard is custom-built to be a gaming and productivity hybrid,” said Danica Aitken, product manager, Microsoft New Zealand. “The switchable key pad sets gamers up to beat their competitors or work on an Excel spreadsheet with one easy switch of the number pad, making it great for work or play.”
SideWinder™ X5 Mouse
Microsoft® also announced the SideWinder X5 Mouse, a fast, powerful gaming mouse designed to give mainstream gamers a competitive edge. The nine-button gaming mouse is designed for handling with vertical side buttons, adjustable sensitivity switching up to 2,000 DPI, five customisable buttons, and a Quick-Launch button that instantly launches the Windows Vista Games Explorer.
Pricing and Availability
The SideWinder™ X6 Keyboard will be available in November 2008 for a recommended retail price of $179.00. The SideWinder™ X5 Mouse will be available in October 2008 for a recommended retail price of $129.00
xLAN had the pleasure of attending the Media Launch last night in Auckland and we look forward to giving you full reviews once we have the keyboard and mouse in our hands.
Posted by dee-zilla on Friday, August 22, 2008 @ 12:18:43 New Zealand Standard Time
Game News: COD4 Sabotage Tourney
Hey all, A tournament's afoot to break the CoD4 S&D cycle! It's a GameVault Call of Duty 4 Sabotage 5v5 Tournament. They have a fantastic prize pool that sees a total prize pool of over $2,300!!!! So head over to GameVault and get your team registered & read more here
Posted by dee-zilla on Sunday, June 01, 2008 @ 16:19:51 New Zealand Standard Time
Game News: RvB Hosting Weekly Prep Tournaments
RvB are hosting weekly xLAN/WCG Qualifier preparation tournaments!
Leading up to the event, they are going to be running 'WCG Rules' tournaments
Get along and better your skills to challenge the best of New Zealand's gamers at xLAN/WCG Qualifiers with RvBs next-gen gaming lounge for the best training!
Posted by dee-zilla on Thursday, May 22, 2008 @ 00:17:41 New Zealand Standard Time
Game News: Hasbro Family Game Night Video Game
Hasbro Family Game Night Video Game
EA BRINGS FAMILY BOARD GAME FAVORITES TO THE WII AND PLAYSTATION 2 WITH HASBRO FAMILY GAME NIGHT VIDEO GAME
Host Interactive Video Game Parties with BATTLESHIP, YAHTZEE, BOGGLE, CONNECT FOUR, and SORRY! from the Comfort of Your Living Room
Auckland, NZ, 21 May 2008 – Join your host MR. POTATO HEAD for fun and games with family and friends like never before. From the Casual Entertainment Label of Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ: ERTS) comes the fun-filled video game HASBRO FAMILY GAME NIGHT, launching November 2008 on Wii™ and the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system. Featuring six games including: BATTLESHIP, YAHTZEE, BOGGLE, CONNECT FOUR, SORRY! and the all new, SORRY! Sliders, HASBRO FAMILY GAME NIGHT is sure to become a valuable family favourite. See the attached screenshots to check out the fun and style of the game.
With the HASBRO FAMILY GAME NIGHT digital experience, families can enjoy familiar classic Hasbro board games or throw in a fun spin with new versions like CONNECT FOUR Power Chips, BOGGLE Portal Cubes, Reverse YAHTZEE and BATTLESHIP Barrage – which add fresh dimensions and challenges to these legendary favourites. Play with up to four people in YAHTZEE, BOGGLE, SORRY! and SORRY! Sliders or up to two players in CONNECT FOUR and BATTLESHIP.
Players can deck out their very own distinctive digital game room in HASBRO FAMILY GAME NIGHT by choosing a setting and adding earned trophies, cool furniture and decorations all themed to their favorite games. Not only can players customize where they play, but also how they play. HASBRO FAMILY GAME NIGHT features a party mode that gives players the option to build a custom party game by choosing their desired game(s), number of players and setting a time limit. Party mode mini-game challenges include Match the Pattern, Shake for Words and Bomb Run.
“We’re giving families a new way to bond and play together,” said Chip Lange, Vice President and General Manager of EA’s Casual Entertainment Label. “HASBRO FAMILY GAME NIGHT offers parents and their children a digital party experience full of classic brands they know and love. Between original and new rule settings, an easy-to-play party mode and a customizable game room feature, the variety and choice promise hours of fun family play.”
“HASBRO FAMILY GAME NIGHT is designed to bring family and friends of all ages together in the digital living room for an evening of ‘anything goes’ fun,” said Mark Blecher, General Manager of Digital Media and Gaming at Hasbro. “Hasbro has been providing families with the best in game play for decades, and now they can enjoy some of our most beloved brands with an all-new digital twist.”
For HASBRO FAMILY GAME NIGHT screenshots and assets, please visit http://info.ea.com
Posted by dee-zilla on Wednesday, May 21, 2008 @ 13:56:48 New Zealand Standard Time
Game News: EA Announces Warhammer Online
EA ANNOUNCES WARHAMMER ONLINE: AGE OF RECKONING TO SHIP IN AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND IN SPRING 2008
Highly Anticipated MMO to Simultaneously Launch with North America & Europe with Dedicated Regional Server
Auckland, NZ. May 16, 2008 – Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ: ERTS) today announced that Warhammer® Online: Age of Reckoning™ (WAR) will ship in Australia, New Zealand and Southeast Asia simultaneously with the North American and European release.
In addition, WAR will also feature a dedicated server in Australia, ensuring the best game play experience possible for players in Australia, New Zealand, Singapore and other Southeast Asian territories. Players will still have the option of connecting to North American servers.
"Warhammer is a world-wide franchise with a strong following in Australia and New Zealand. By placing our own server down under and running customer service out of EA Mythic, we can ensure that when we launch WAR, Oceanic players will experience the same quality of game play and customer service as North American players" said Mark Jacobs, VP and General Manager of EA Mythic.
Based on Games Workshop’s epic and longstanding tabletop fantasy war game, WAR features revolutionary Realm vs. Realm™ (RvR) game play that immerses players in a world of perpetual conflict. WAR is scheduled for launch on the PC in Spring 2008.
Posted by dee-zilla on Friday, May 16, 2008 @ 14:10:21 New Zealand Standard Time
Game News: Kiwi Gamer Wins
Kiwi Gamer Wins the Official Halo® 3 Tournament sponsored by Samsung TV
AUCKLAND, 15 May 2008 - Microsoft® today announced the overall winner of the Official Halo 3 Tournament sponsored by Samsung TV. Caleb Craig from Gisborne secured the title after an action-packed final which pitted five of the finest Halo 3 players in Asia Pacific against each other.
The competition gatheredHalo 3 players across the Asia Pacific region in an impressive test of skill and dexterity. Gamers in these participating countries - Hong Kong, South Korea, Singapore, Australia and New Zealand – registered by going to their Xbox LIVE® Dashboard and downloading the exclusive tournament GamerPic.
After four weeks of intense tournament play, the five territory champions were selected based on their overall scores in three game modes.
These territory champions then competed on Xbox LIVE in the APAC Finals to determine the overall winner. After an intense playoff on the Valhalla map, Craig from New Zealand emerged champion.
“Everyone knows that Halo 3 is one of the best videogames to play with friends. I was excited to test my skills against the best from APAC – and on Xbox LIVE,” Craig said. “The 10 minutes of the finals will remain in my memory for a long time.”
Craig took home the grand prize showcase consisting of a new Samsung 40” LCD TV , an Xbox 360® Elite console, an Xbox 360 20GB hard drive, 5,000 Microsoft Points and an Xbox 360 LIVE accessories pack which includes Xbox 360 messenger kit, Xbox 360 vision camera, Xbox 360 wireless adapter.
The territory champions in the five regions also received exclusive Halo 3 artwork as special prizes.
Posted by dee-zilla on Thursday, May 15, 2008 @ 15:32:00 New Zealand Standard Time
Game News: RVB - Halo 3: Social BIG TEAM BATTLE
HALO 3: BIG TEAM BATTLE
Halo 3: Social BIG TEAM BATTLE:
32 Players (Max)
Warmup Match: FFA Guardian
Standard Halo 3 Settings
Maps: VIP Sandtrap, Slayer Last Resort & Snipes Narrows
Final Match: Capture Flag Valhalla
Points Based: Best of 3.
Prizes to be won*
*Prizes, Times & Tournaments Are Dependant On Turnout
Posted by dee-zilla on Wednesday, May 14, 2008 @ 17:27:26 New Zealand Standard Time
Game News: EA Unveils New Sub-Brand
EA UNVEILS NEW ‘EA SPORTS FREESTYLE’ SUB-BRAND
EA SPORTS Freestyle to represent the lighter side of sports:
No rules, just fun.
AUCKLAND, New Zealand., – May 12, 2008 – Electronic Arts Inc. (Nasdaq: ERTS) today launched EA SPORTS Freestyle™, a new sub-brand aimed at a growing, more casual sports gaming audience. EA SPORTS Freestyle games, while based in sports, will be playful, inclusive, casual, and easy to pick up and play for kids and parents, women and men, and casual and hardcore sports fans of all ages.
“The launch of EA SPORTS Freestyle is an exciting milestone in the evolution of the EA SPORTS brand,” said Peter Moore, president, EA SPORTS. “EA SPORTS Freestyle will be a perfect complement to our core portfolio of games that our loyal fans are deeply passionate about, and will provide compelling opportunities for new audiences looking for a lighter gaming experience and an easier entry point into EA SPORTS.”
EA SPORTS Freestyle will be the home for innovative new intellectual properties from the EA SPORTS label, including three new games in development and slated for release in the next 12 months. The first title to launch under the new sub-brand will be FaceBreaker™, an arcade-style boxing title set for release in September 2008 and the first new console IP from EA SPORTS since 2002.
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.
Posted by dee-zilla on Monday, May 12, 2008 @ 17:19:47 New Zealand Standard Time
Game News: Black Box Session 17
Black Box Session is back with a vengance!
That's right, Black Box Session 17 will be held at the end of this month at the Ellerslie Convention Centre / Racecourse, over two days! This event is in conjunction with the Gameplayer card gaming tournament and we will be sharing space on the third floor.
Pre-registration will be enabled soon. Deal will be $20 for Saturday only or $30 for both Sat and Sun.
Halo 3 and CoD4 on Xbox 360 will run both days. Other tournaments on 360, PS3, PS2, DS and Wii are likely to be Saturday only.
Where: Ellerslie Convention Centre
When: 31st May - 1st June (Queen's Birthday Weekend)
How much: $20 per day or $30 for both days for unlimited tournament entry (pay at door)
NB. This is a console gaming event and would be an excellent warm up for any of the console tournaments at xLAN
Posted by Dee-Zilla on Wednesday, May 07, 2008 @ 12:21:41 New Zealand Standard Time
Game News: NZ's #1 Warcraft 3 Player!
New Zealand’s #1 Warcraft 3 Player snapped up by Serious Gaming
[News Source from Serious Gaming] Serious is happy to announce its latest addition to the Warcraft III team, New Zealand's nightelf player Hamish 'kowi' Parker. Kowi has played very succesfuly for over two years for Team Delta. With this team he participated in leagues such as NGL One. Individualy Kowi's most notable results are making it into the last two editions of the World Cyber Games and a second place at the Pan Asian Cyber Games.
Already for some time Serious was on the lookout for one extra player to complete the teams roster. We think in Kowi we have found the player we needed. Although the time zones might not look to work in his advantage, this has not stopped Kowi in the past to get some impressive results. With Kowi the team has found a player that is very strong in a nightelf mirror and also has proved to feel very comfortable to play in the NGL system.
Statement Zerter:
Over the past years I have been following Kowi with interest as he showed strong results and good manner playing for team Delta. I have seen him play live at two World Cyber Games where he beat such players as LongWalk, ToD and Sonic.
He should make a great addition to Serious Gaming and I am looking forward to seeing him become part of the team as well as his performance under our tag.
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March 16, 2009 — Valve, creators of best-selling entertainment products and advanced technologies, today announced the arrival of in-game downloadable content to Steam, their massively popular PC gaming platform. In-game DLC allows developers and publishers to use their own games as a platform for selling additional content to gamers. 
