Saturday, May 22 2004

A combination of explosive martial arts and anime entertainment hits the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system this summer as Atari, Inc. (Nasdaq: ATAR) unveils the first-ever details behind Yu Yu Hakusho: Dark TournamentTM. Scheduled for release in Fall 2004. Atari's Yu Yu Hakusho: Dark TournamentTM is a fighting game based upon the animated series airing on the Cartoon Network's Toonami Block, whose popularity - especially among males 9-14 - has resulted in a variety of merchandised products, including action figures, trading cards, apparel and home videos. The game seamlessly blends fast-paced fighting based on the Dark Tournament Saga of the animated series with actual show footage to immerse fans and newcomers alike in the dramatic highlights of the Yu Yu HakushoTM story.

"Yu Yu HakushoTM has emerged as one of this country's hottest anime properties," said Nancy MacIntyre, vice president of Marketing for Atari's Beverly Studio. "Atari is again thrilled to partner with FUNimation Productions and developer Digital Fiction to deliver this next-generation original."

There are only two ways out of the Dark Tournament - victory or death - and Yu Yu Hakusho: Dark TournamentTM takes players inside the dangerous fighting arena to see if they are up to the challenge. Playing as one of over 25 Yu Yu HakushoTM franchise characters, combatants can execute fast, high-power attacks authentically derived from the TV show.

Created by Digital Fiction, Yu Yu Hakusho: Dark TournamentTM for the PlayStation®2 will be available in August, 2004, for a suggested retail price of $39.95. It is currently rated 'RP' for Rating Pending.

For more information, please visit www.yuyuhakusho.com.

Tuesday, May 18 2004

Monday, May 17 2004

Rumble Roses Screenshots
Updated at 10:26 PM
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Here are a few screens for Rumble Roses (only 3 are shown here!):

Karaoke Revolution Volume 2 Screens
Updated at 10:24 PM
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I got screens up for Karaoke Revolution Volume 2. Here are a few to start you off:

Destroy All Humans
Updated at 10:17 PM
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Here's the fact sheet for Destroy All Humans, coming to the PS2 early next year:

Release Date: Q1-2005
Barcode: TBA
Territory: English
SRP/RRP: TBC

Use destructive weapons and innate mental powers to take on the most feared enemy in the galaxy - Mankind! Play as Crypto, an alien warrior sent to Earth to clear the way for the Furon invasion force. Your mission is to infiltrate humanity, control them, harvest their brain stems and ultimately destroy them. You choose the method - infiltration or disintigration!

Features:


Turn the tables on the classic Alien vs. Human storyline. In Destroy All Humans, play from the Alien perspective and finally know what it feels like to have the upper hand.


Arm yourself with a variety of alien weaponary on land or in the air. Use the Ion detonator, the * Zap-o-Matic, the Sonic Boom, or even the Quantum Deconstructor to eradicate feeble humans.


Explore and interact with 5 huge environments using an arsenal of alien abilities to manipulate humas into submission: hypotize, body-snatch, read minds, levitate and more.


Take to the skies in your UFo, abduct animals, cars, and humans for research, or cause large-scale destruction.


Packed with familiar and popular Sci-Fi references.

Saturday, May 15 2004

Developer: Square Enix Co., Ltd.
Publisher: Square Enix U.S.A., Inc.
Format: PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system (PS2)
Genre: Role-Playing Game
ESRB: RP (Rating Pending)
Ship Date: TBD

KINGDOM HEARTS II follows Sora, Donald, and Goofy on their continuing quest. Sora is looking for his lost friends Kairi and Riku, while Donald and Goofy are searching for their missing king

It has been a year since the events of KINGDOM HEARTS. Sora and friends are joined by a vibrant new cast of characters, including the king himself! Together, they will encounter countless dangers in worlds both familiar and brand-new. It seems the Heartless, or at least some form of them, still exist. A new villain also awaits, hidden by a mask. Is it someone familiar or a new opponent to be confronted? This mystery and others will be solved as the story unfolds in a grand adventure.

KINGDOM HEARTS has sold over 4 million units worldwide and continues to gain popularity with gamers and fans of both DISNEY and SQUARE ENIX across the planet. KINGDOM HEARTS captured the imaginations of gamers young and old, combining classic DISNEY properties with SQUARE ENIX's renowned style, and presenting characters and worlds brought to life by an all-star voice cast. Fans will revisit this beloved story and come to care for a new troupe of characters in KINGDOM HEARTS II.

Tetsuya Nomura reprises his role as Director and Main Character Designer in KINGDOM HEARTS II, seamlessly weaving two creative worlds into a universe brimming with imagination. Nomura is also the creator of many unique characters in the FINAL FANTASY canon, including characters from FINAL FANTASY VII, VIII, X, and X-2. Joining him is Yuichi Kanemori as Battle Director. His battle system for KINGDOM HEARTS was designed for players of all skill levels, wedding a simple and intuitive interface to challenging and entertaining gameplay. Kazushige Nojima acts as Scenario Director, spinning together the many emotional twists and turns of KINGDOM HEARTS II. Nojima is also known for this work on the landmark PlayStation titles FINAL FANTASY VII and FINAL FANTASY VIII.

E3 2K4 - Street Racing Syndicate
Updated at 1:11 AM
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Here's some info regarding Namco's Street Racing Syndicate. Check it:

Game Description:
Nights filled with high-risk, nitrous-injected, illegal racing on real city streets. Money and respect always on the line. Cops lurking behind every sharp turn. Customizing cars with authentic parts, cool paint, and anything else bought or won from sanctioned or illegal races. From hot cars with lifelike physics and damage, to beautiful models picked from the pages of today's top import magazines, SRS delivers the adrenaline-filled world of street racing!

Features:


RACE FOR MONEY, PINK SLIPS AND MORE. Progress through the streets of L.A., Philly and Miami; earning cash, respect, and the affections of real world street racing models.


EXTENSIVE CUSTOMIZATION. Customize licensed vehicles with detailed licensed after-market parts and hundreds of graphics upgrades.


REALISTIC DAMAGE. Poor racing will damage vehicles...and cost money to repair.


COMBINES OPEN CITY AND CLOSED TRACKS. Featuring unprecedented freedom allowing players to exit races to escape from the police.


UNPRECENDENTED INTERNET PLAY. Takes street racing to the limit online.

Publisher: Namco Hometek Inc.
Developer: Eutechnyx Ltd.
Release Date: Fall 2004
Platform: PlayStation®2, Xbox®, Nintendo GameCubeTM
Genre: Street Racing
Multiplayer: 2 player split screen, 4 player system link, Online play
ESRB Rating: RP (Teen expected)
MSRP: TBD
URL: www.namco.com

E3 2K4 - Xenosaga Episode II
Updated at 1:08 AM
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Here's some info on Xenosaga Episode II:

In Xenosaga® EPISODE II, thousands of years into a war-torn future, humanity has advanced to such a degree that its substantial resources of weapons and technology distort the boundaries of human limits. In this sequel, contend for control over the original Zohar to unravel its mystery and defeat the threat of the Gnosis. Customize your characters using over a hundred different skills and take control of a deeper, more evolved combat system. In Xenosaga® EPISODE II, humanity must depend on their will to survive in the battle for the holy grail that could be their only savior ... or biggest threat yet.

Features:


FULLY CUSTOMIZABLE CHARACTER GROWTH SYSTEM. An extensive experience system features over 100 different skills to customize the characters to the player's preference.


EVEN DEEPER BATTLE SYSTEM. A new and improved complex battle system utilizes team combination attacks, a refined boost system, double team attacks, and zone attack/break system. The turn-based battle requires even more strategy and provides a deeper challenge.


RETURNING CHARACTERS. Shion, KOS-MOS and other favorite EPISODE I characters return with more mature, refined character designs and all new mechs.


AN EPIC CINEMATIC MASTERPIECE. Hours of dazzling cinematics are complimented by high-quality English voice acting. Complex and philosophical themes add depth to an already sophisticated, dramatic storyline that could stand on its own as an intricately woven masterpiece.

Game Summary:
Publisher: Namco Hometek Inc.
Developer: Monolith Software Inc.
Release Date: Q1 2005
Platform: Sony Playstation®2
Genre: Role Playing
Multiplayer: No
ESRB Rating: RP
MSRP: $49.99
URL: http://www.namco.com

Wednesday, May 12 2004

"You can kill ten of my men for every one I kill of yours, but even at those odds, you will lose and I will win."
Ho Chi Minh - 1940s

In the 1950s the United States deployed their first troops to Vietnam and to a war which was to span the next 25 years, claiming millions of lives on both sides and creating some of the strongest tensions in US history.

A haunting depiction of a truly grisly war, Conflict: Vietnam is the next instalment in the multi-award winning Conflict series, which has to date, sold over 3.5 million copies worldwide.

Conflict: Vietnam follows the progress of four US soldiers, Ragman, Junior, Hoss and Cherry, cut off from their unit during the 1968 Tet Offensive and tasked with fighting their way back to friendly lines. A third person shooter where the player takes full control of all four squad members, Conflict: Vietnam does not set out to depict the course of the war; instead we witness four men struggling for survival in the hostile Vietnam jungle against a ruthless terrain and seemingly ever-present 'invisible' enemy.

With 14 missions spanning a variety of environments you must lead your squad down Vietnamese rivers manning the guns on a heavily armoured river boat, into local villages (with friendly and non-friendly fire) to rescue hostages, through ruined temples and the claustrophobic jungle and into the ancient Vietnamese capital of Hue.

Armed with an array of heavy artillery your squad must also use make use of transportation abandoned by the Viet-Cong or discarded by captured US troops such as tanks, boats and helicopters, in addition to any surplus weaponry you acquire including gun placements and two-manned mortar sites.

Lastly, and by no means least, keep a watchful eye out for the Viet-Cong booby traps, from grenade trip wires and water mines to the punji stake pit trap and the 'Bouncing Betty' anti-personnel mine.

Conflict: Vietnam will be available on PS2, Xbox and PC in autumn 2004

E3 2K4 - Jak 3 Fact Sheet
Updated at 2:19 PM
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Here's the fact sheet for the third game in the Jak & Daxter series for the PS2:

Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc.
Producer/Designer: Naughty Dog, Inc.
Genre: Action-Platform
Players: Single-player
Platform: PlayStation.2 computer entertainment system
Peripherals: DUALSHOCK® 2 analog controller, Memory Card (8MB) (for PlayStation 2)
Launch Date: Holiday Season 2004
Target Age: 13 +
Rating: "RP" for Rating Pending

OVERVIEW

Created and developed by Naughty Dog, Inc., Jak 3TM is the team's follow-up to their best-selling title, Jak II TM and their Greatest Hits PlayStation®2 debut title, Jak and Daxter: The Precursor Legacy®. Together, Jak and Daxter: The Precursor Legacy and Jak II have sold more than 2.5 million units worldwide, both playing a part in revolutionizing the action platform genre. Combining a variety of genres including driving, adventure, action-platform, puzzles, strategy and exploration, Jak 3 promises to deliver one of the most entertaining and interactive experiences to gamers this holiday season!

In Jak 3, nothing is the same. The story begins with Jak's banishment to the Wasteland, a desert environment five times the size of Haven City, with multiple areas including mines and a volcano. Given the enormity and variance in terrain, vehicles play a large role as off-road transportation is introduced, fueled by a true-to-life physics engine. An action-adventure game featuring story-based missions that integrate a dynamic plot with gameplay, the city's new look is just the first surprise in Jak 3 as the game unveils more guns, vehicles, additional dark powers and the introduction of light powers. Players will also find a cast of both new and familiar characters that will slowly be revealed as Jak and Daxter begin another adventure that will leave them fighting for their lives.

STORYLINE

One year has passed since Jak and Daxter saved Haven City from Kor and the attacking Metal Heads, yet Haven City is still immersed in deadly chaos as three groups fight for control of the streets. The people of Haven City have grown to distrust Jak's dark powers, and as rumors boil of Jak's ties with Krew and Kor, the city blames Jak for its current woeful circumstances. When the palace is destroyed by a surprise Metal Head attack, even Ashelin cannot protect Jak as the High Council's power broker, Count Veger, forces Jak into banishment for life to the desolate Wasteland. Upon Jak being flown to the harsh island and dropped off to fend for himself, he discovers that Daxter and Pecker have discreetly followed him to his proclaimed lifetime of hell. With Daxter and Pecker bravely by his side, the three begin their next adventure as they wander the Wasteland and along the way encounter perilous situations, violent battles and devastating consequences.

KEY FEATURES


The new Wasteland features a desert with multiple areas, including a mine, volcano and the desert city of Spargus that is home to fierce inhabitants.


True to the Jak and Daxter franchise, players will be immediately thrown into a compelling storyline, fast-paced action and seamless adventure.


Vehicles play a large role in the game, as Jak and Daxter will unlock a variety of vehicles, including off-road transportation. All feature complex, simulated vehicle physics and come equipped with weapons.


Not only will players take on the role of Jak, they can also play as Daxter, who has an extended role within the game during level-specific areas.


Now that Jak has been exposed to Light Eco, players can transform themselves into Light Jak, with amazing new abilities including a move that allows Jak to glide with the addition of large angelic wings.


Dark Jak powers also return, as Jak must find a balance between Light Eco and Dark Eco.


All of Jak's weapons from Jak II return with the addition of two devastating upgrades for each gun type.


Haven City has changed dramatically since players last saw it. After a Metal Head attack destroyed the palace and demolished the majority of the city, players will notice some major aesthetic differences that will alter gameplay.


The Titan Suit and Jetboard return to provide Jak and Daxter additional ways to get around their dangerous surroundings.


Jak 3 feature new technology including Ragdoll Physics, which will allow gamers to observe a unique death for each enemy that is killed, cloth dynamics, Wasteland terrain renderer, revamped spooling and memory management scheme, and massively overhauled rigid-body physics system.


Players will enjoy more than 60 minutes of movie quality in game cinematic.

E3 2K4 - New Frogger Game
Updated at 2:18 PM
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A new Frogger game has been announced for a few systems, including the new Nintendo GS, PSP, PS2 and GC:

Konami Digital Entertainment - America, a division of Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc., today revealed that a sequel in the hit Frogger franchise is being developed for the upcoming handheld systems, SCEA's PSPTM and Nintendo® DS, as well as next-generation consoles, PlayStation® 2 computer entertainment system and Nintendo GameCubeTM. Taking the classic "hop-n-dodge" gameplay to new heights, the games will feature innovative gameplay, new characters, and dynamic environments, with more levels than previous games in the popular franchise.

"We're taking the easy pick-up-and-play, hop-n-dodge gameplay, and expanding it to create new and compelling content for fans of the series," said Erica Mason, product manager, Konami Digital Entertainment - America. "Frogger has become a household name and the franchise is a perfect fit for the new handheld systems, bringing an element of nostalgia as well as exciting new gameplay to consumers."

The games will feature dozens of unlockable items, mini-games and new playable characters, including Lumpy, a friendly and carefree toad, and Berry, a fourteen year old Amazon frog who performs as an acrobat in a traveling caravan. Each of the playable characters will have their own unique gameplay and features. In addition, players can perform new moves for all playable characters such as vertical jump, swing and stomp, adding more depth to the popular gameplay. Up to four players will also be able to compete in the numerous mini-games for some friendly competition.

Frogger captured the hearts of gamers everywhere when it first appeared in arcades in 1981. More than 20 years later with over seven million games sold to date, Frogger continues to be one of the most memorable and beloved pop culture icons.

Frogger (working title) is slated for release in 2005.

E3 2K4 - Hot Shots Gold Fore!
Updated at 2:15 PM
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Some news for this upcoming gold game:

Sony Computer Entertainment America announced today the upcoming summer 2004 release of Hot Shots Golf® Fore!, created exclusively for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system. Developed by Clap Hanz in conjunction with Sony Computer Entertainment America's Santa Monica Studios, Hot Shots Golf Fore! returns as the fourth installment in the extremely popular franchise that helped bring interest in golf indoors and sold more than 7.5 million units worldwide in the process.

Hot Shots Golf Fore! delivers the fast-paced gameplay that fans of the franchise have grown to love. Hot Shots Golf Fore! provides breathtaking graphics and true-to-life golf physics that will include more golfers and caddies than ever before - 34 in all featuring new off-the-wall characters, returning favorites and several popular PlayStation 2 characters. During gameplay, players will be able to enjoy a variety of 15 different courses, ranging from challenging 18-hole layouts to demanding par three executive courses. Miniature golf also returns with a wacky new twist, and players can share the course with thousands of Hot Shots Golf fans from across the nation with an all new online mode via the Network Adaptor (Ethernet/modem) (for PlayStation®2) featuring head-to-head play and real time tournaments.

"Hot Shots Golf Fore! provides a truly entertaining golfing experience with brilliant graphics, dramatic camera angles and fast-paced arcade, style gameplay. The intuitive controls and adjustable difficulty settings will entice even the most serious golf fanatics into endless hours of gameplay," said Ami Blaire, director, product marketing, Sony Computer Entertainment America. "In addition, from the wacky antics of the new characters, to the challenging new courses and online gameplay, this is a game that all PlayStation 2 fans will embrace and enjoy."

During gameplay, Hot Shots Golf Fore! features touch-sensitive controls that demand careful consideration to golf's many variables, such as wind, ball lie and course elevation. In Hot Shots Golf Fore!, players will be able to test their golf skills in several different modes including tour, tournament, versus (VS) mode, training, and online play. In the online play mode, players will compete in head-to-head competitions, real-time tournaments, as well as participate in the Hot Shots Golf online community. The popular "Hot Shots Points" is also back where players redeem points to unlock more prizes than before including advanced golf equipment, new courses, characters and tons of wacky golf gadgets.

The independent Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) has not yet rated Hot Shots Golf Fore!. For more information about the ESRB visit www.esrb.com.

E3 2K4 - Dance Dance Revolution Extreme
Updated at 2:12 PM
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DDR will now have EyeToy support! Interesting!

Konami Digital Entertainment - America, a division of Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc., today revealed new information about Dance Dance Revolution EXTREMETM (DDR EXTREME) for the PlayStation® 2 computer entertainment system. The newest addition in the groundbreaking multi-million selling Dance Dance RevolutionTM series, DDR EXTREME will introduce a whole new level of interaction in the popular franchise with the EyeToyTM USB Camera for PlayStation® 2.

"Dance Dance Revolution EXTREME is the first Konami title to incorporate EyeToy Camera support in the U.S. and there couldn't be a better video game to leverage its capabilities," said Geoff Mulligan, Chief Operating Officer, Konami Digital Entertainment - America. "The visual and motion components of the game and the EyeToy Camera blend together perfectly to provide the most engaging and interactive video game experience on the market."

Dancing for top score and bragging rights, DDR EXTREME challenges players to step onto the interactive dance pad for either single play or head-to-head competition. With the addition of EyeToy Camera support, players can now physically become part of the game - appearing live on TV! Technique, style and timing are required as players move their arms, hips and body to the beat of the music. By accessing the new "Hands & Feet" mode, players follow visual cues to complete the song, while the "Clean the Screen" mode requires players to wave their hands to clear an obstructed view on the screen. For gamers with style, the "Watch Me Dance" mode lets players see themselves strut their stuff in the background of the game. Other fun mini-games and EyeToy Camera modes are also planned for the game.

DDR EXTREME includes an impressive collection of 70 new songs, showcasing more than 100 minutes of pulsating tunes. Including hits from Duran Duran, Junior Senior, Village People, BT and other well-known artists in pop music, DDR EXTREME will have players up on their feet and waving their hands in the air to the ultimate interactive dancing experience.

Rounding out this complete DDR package and ensuring players are getting off the couch and onto the dance floor is the return of the popular "Work Out" mode, allowing players to track the calories they burn as they dance off the pounds.

DDR EXTREME will be supporting Dolby Pro Logic II and is scheduled to ship in September 2004.

E3 2K4 - New Yu-gi-oh Games
Updated at 2:10 PM
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Check it out, there appear to be a few sequels for some Yu-gi-oh games that are already out on GBA, PS2, and PC being released soon:

Konami Digital Entertainment - America, a division of Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc., today announced Yu-Gi-Oh!TM Capsule Monster ColiseumTM for PlayStation® 2 computer entertainment system, Yu-Gi-Oh!TM Destiny Board TravelerTM for Game Boy® Advance and Yu-Gi-Oh!TM Power of Chaos: Joey the PassionTM for PC CD-ROM. Having sold more than 6.5 million units in North America, the Yu-Gi-Oh! video game phenomenon continues to provide players and fans of the series with new and exciting content based on the top-rated animated TV show and popular trading card game.

Launching on PlayStation 2 in October 2004, Yu-Gi-Oh! Capsule Monster Coliseum delivers the most strategic board dueling game to date. Players put their skills to the test in this turn-based chess-type board game where in-depth strategies are keys to success in becoming the Capsule Monster King! Defeat your foes using a variety of monsters and techniques incorporated into the multiple modes of the game. In Versus Mode, players battle against their friends while Free Battle Mode lets players test their dueling skills. In Campaign Mode players face multiple characters and rivals from the Yu-Gi-Oh! comic book and TV series for the ultimate challenge. Players will improve their strength and earn points to acquire new monsters or upgrade their current roster to complete the ultimate collection of capsule monsters.

For gamers on the go, Yu-Gi-Oh! Destiny Board Traveler is a great addition for any Game Boy Advance library and is a brand new dueling game in the Yu-Gi-Oh! universe. A fusion of the highly-popular Yu-Gi-Oh! Trading Card Game and a fun board game, Yu-Gi-Oh! Destiny Board Traveler challenges gamers to be the first player to summon enough powerful monsters to achieve victory. For each match, players will be able to set their own conditions to win. With more than eight characters to choose from, each with their own special ability, as well as numerous maps to compete in and plenty of special roll attacks, Yu-Gi-Oh! Destiny Board Traveler delivers an all new type of gameplay for fans to enjoy. Yu-Gi-Oh! fans will also be able link up with friends using the Game Boy® Advance Game Link® cable for four-player simultaneously play for the first time ever. Yu-Gi-Oh! Destiny Board Traveler is scheduled to release in October 2004.

For the ultimate PC trading card game battle, players will face Yugi's best friend, Joey, in Yu-Gi-Oh! Power of Chaos: Joey the Passion for PC CD-ROM. Implementing the exciting gameplay and rules of the Yu-Gi-Oh! TRADING CARD GAME, Yu-Gi-Oh! Power of Chaos: Joey the Passion will redefine PC dueling with an all-new interface, enhanced strategies and 2-player LAN play. Featuring hundreds of new cards that were previously unavailable as well as the option of importing acquired cards from Yu-Gi-Oh!TM Power Chaos: Yugi the DestinyTM and Yu-Gi-Oh!TM Power of Chaos: Kaiba the RevengeTM, players can create the ultimate deck to duel against friends. Yu-Gi-Oh! Power of Chaos: Joey the Passion will ship in June 2004.

Also on display at Konami's E3 booth is Yu-Gi-Oh!TM Reshef of DestructionTM, the sequel to the overwhelming hit Yu-Gi-Oh!TM The Sacred CardsTM. Players will battle with more than 100 duelists to create an unbeatable deck to fight Reshef, "The Dark Being," who is out to destroy the world. Launching in June 2004, Yu-Gi-Oh! Reshef of Destruction will come packed with three exclusive limited edition Yu-Gi-Oh! cards: Dark Magician Knight, Knight's Title and Sage's Stone.

E3 2K4 - Suikoden IV
Updated at 2:08 PM
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Some news on Suikoden IV, set to be released this fall:

Konami Digital Entertainment - America, a division of Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc., today revealed new details about Suikoden® IV, the company's epic role-playing game (RPG) for the PlayStation® 2 computer entertainment system, including the return of the series' signature 108 Stars of Destiny.

Suikoden IV is inspired by an actual Chinese tale in which 108 ordinary people come together from different backgrounds to do great things. In Suikoden IV, players step into the shoes of a young hero who obtains the Rune of Punishment and follows his path into a strange and fascinating world filled with huge ships, beautiful islands and vast oceans.

A deep RPG story awaits gamers who are ready for an epic 3D adventure. For the first time in the series' history, Suikoden IV will feature full voice-overs for many of the characters in the game. Navigating through numerous mysterious islands, players will collect party members and build a home base for their crew. The drama escalates as the characters engage in heated one-on-one battles, party battles and group battles, including ship-to-ship and army battles with countless island enemies. The new dynamic camera system in Suikoden IV heats up the action by presenting the conflicts from multiple angles. With dozens of playable characters including ones returning from previous adventures, and the return of numerous fun mini-games such as fishing and dice games, RPG fans will have their hands full in Suikoden IV.

The Suikoden series launched in 1995 in Japan and was released in the U.S. on the PlayStation in December of 1996. Instantly hailed as one of the most innovative RPGs, Suikoden delivered a unique battle system, an intriguing storyline with numerous plot twists and multiple endings to provide a fun experience for all RPG fans. Since its debut, the Suikoden series has receive numerous industry accolades for being one of the top games of all time.

Suikoden IV is scheduled for release in fall 2004.

E3 2K4 - Silent Hill 4: The Room
Updated at 2:05 PM
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WHOOOO! Although we already knew it was in the works, it's just exciting to see more information on the next game in the Silent Hill series:

Konami Digital Entertainment - America, a division of Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc., today showcased Silent Hill 4: The RoomTM for the PlayStation® 2 computer entertainment system, the Xbox® video game system from Microsoft and PC DVD-ROM. Produced by Akira Yamaoka and the creative development team at Konami Computer Entertainment Tokyo, the new title in the hit series continues to push the envelope in the survival-horror genre inspiring fear in players' hearts and homes.

"Silent Hill 4 dives inside the physical and mental space of gamers to create the most terrifying game in the series," said Wilson Cheng, product manager at Konami Digital Entertainment - America. "There is no escaping the fear sparked by the hideous creatures, creepy environments and mysterious characters when you are trapped with them in your very own room."

Silent Hill 4: The Room begins in the sleepy town of South Ashfield, only a few short miles from Silent Hill. When the game's new hero, Henry Townshend awakens from a nightmare, he finds that he cannot leave his apartment. The door to the outside is heavily chained and boarded shut. Sounds emanate from the bathroom, but when he goes to investigate he notices a strange tunnel that will inevitably lead him directly into the heart of darkness.

Driven to deliver a frightful entertainment experience that is as scary as it is gratifying, the unsettling narrative of Silent Hill 4: The Room strikes fear in the hearts of its players. Traveling between the real world and a haunted alternate world, players will be forced to unravel a twisted mystery by deciphering a series of often-perplexing puzzles and clues. Adding further intimacy to the gameplay experience is the title's new 1st-person viewpoint within the real world and its 3rd-person viewpoint in the haunted alternate world. When the blood-curdling tale invades the privacy and sanctity of their home, players will likely find that the lifelike visuals will inspire real-life nightmares and nights filled with restless sleep.

Silent Hill 4: The Room is slated for release in September 2004.

E3 2K4 - New Shaman King titles
Updated at 2:03 PM
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New Shaman King games being relased for the GBA and PS2:

Konami Digital Entertainment - America, a division of Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc. today announced that it will release the first two video games, Shaman KingTM: Power of Spirit for the PlayStation® 2 computer entertainment system and Shaman KingTM: Master of Spirits for the Nintendo's Game Boy® Advance in August 2004. Based on the popular Shaman King television series, trading card game and comic books, these action-packed, anime-style games bring the exciting world and characters from the 4Kids Entertainment's FOX BOX (NYSE: KDE) TV series to life in a fully interactive video game.

"The unique characters, style and compelling story lines in the Shaman King animated series have given us a rich background to work with for these video games," said Erica Mason, product manager, Konami Digital Entertainment - America. "Shaman King for the PlayStation 2 and Game Boy Advance provides fans with a new and unique way to experience the world of Shaman King."

Shaman King follows the story of Yoh Asakura, a junior high student hiding an amazing secret. Yoh is a shaman, one of the few who can communicate with ghosts and spirits. Through his powers, Yoh can join forces with another spirit uniting ghost and human together as one. Yoh teams up with Amidamaru, the spirit of a 600 year-old samurai warrior and with this powerful union, Yoh begins his quest to be crowned Shaman King in the Grand Tournament held only once every 500 years!

Featuring an all-new story, including characters from the animated series and exclusive characters not seen in the TV show or comic book, Shaman King: Power of Spirit (PlayStation 2) provides a fun mix of strategic adventure and fighting strategy. Power of Spirit finds Yoh and his friends robbed of their shamanic powers by a mysterious force - the Fourth Millennium - that is plotting to control the Earth. A beautiful 3D graphics engine, animation and CGI movies bring the characters and story to life as Yoh and his companions implement multiple fighting styles and strategies to take out enemies and defeat the nefarious Fourth Millennium.

Shaman King: Master of Spirits (Game Boy Advance) features an original adventure where Yoh must fight his way through multiple stages filled with enemies and traps in order to stop an evil shaman from resurrecting the Guardian of Demons. Characters from the TV show and comics will appear along the way to help or hinder Yoh as he traverses numerous stages and branching paths that enhance the gameplay experience.

Introduced in Japan in 1998, Shaman King has become a phenomenal success with more than 20 million comic books and more than 165 million trading cards sold. The Shaman King animated series debuted on the FOX BOX in fall 2003 in the U.S.

Shaman King: Power of Spirit and Shaman King: Master of Spirits are on display at Konami's E3 2004 booth.

E3 2K4 - Rumble Roses
Updated at 2:02 PM
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An all female wrestling game?! Wowzers! This could be interesting:

Konami Digital Entertainment - America, a division of Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc. today released new information and showcased new gameplay in its highly anticipated all-female wrestling game, Rumble RosesTM. Rumbles Roses is slated to ship in November 2004 for the PlayStation® 2 computer entertainment system.

"This is the ultimate fantasy for gamers," said Rob Goff, product manager at Konami Digital Entertainment - America. "We're delivering an unparalleled wrestling game experience combined with the most beautiful women ever to appear in a video game."

Wrestling fans will have hands-on experience with the beautiful ladies of Rumble Roses as they dish out the dirt in Mud Mode. Modeled in revealing bikinis, these vicious vixens aren't afraid of getting a little dirty. Delivering realistic mud matches, players will literally see mud sliding off these sexy wrestlers after each take down in the mud pit. Providing an experience not found in any other wrestling game, Mud Mode features jaw-dropping visuals and intense gameplay that plays as good as it looks.

Packing a roster of deadly moves, including traditional suplexes, kicks and elbows, virtual grapplers will also have special moves for each character at their disposal. Rumble Roses' unique combat system allows for characters to humiliate their foes by insulting and taunting them - even placing them in compromising positions. The individual fighting style chosen for the 11 characters will influence each wrestler's "good" or "bad" persona when players choose to fight dirty or fair. With the game's Superstar System, the more popular a character becomes with the virtual audience, the greater the benefits the players will receive, giving them an advantage in the match. Each wrestler will also have a costume change, new moves, different crowd reactions and attitudes depending on their persona, virtually giving players more than 20 ladies to grapple.

A playable version of the game will be on display at Konami's booth during E3 2004.

E3 2K4 - Neo Contra
Updated at 2:01 PM
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Again, from the Konami booth, a new Contra game is in the works!

Konami Digital Entertainment - America, a division of Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc., today revealed new details of the highly-anticipated action game Neo ContraTM. Specially designed to deliver an action-packed entertainment experience, Neo Contra serves up classic arcade-style intensity along with stunning 3D graphics and a first-rate musical soundtrack for the PlayStation® 2 computer entertainment system.

"With Neo Contra, we are taking the popular Contra series one step further and breaking new ground yet again," said Wilson Cheng, product manager at Konami Digital Entertainment - America. "We are giving game fans the adrenaline fix they crave by providing intense, challenging gameplay set in a 3D world for the first time on the PlayStation 2."

Taking the classic series into a new dimension, Neo Contra introduces players to the series' signature gameplay, through a new isometric 3D camera view. This allows more dynamic shooting action as well as more strategy in defeating hordes of enemies. The new viewpoint is only one of the many exciting features that help set Neo Contra apart from other action titles. Set in the distant future, Neo Contra continues the adventures of the legendary hero, Bill Rizer, and introduces a visually striking new character to the series - Genbei Jaguar Yagyu, a mysterious Samurai. With his unique moves and personalized weapons, this new character gives game players a whole new way to experience Contra.

Additionally, players will benefit from a slew of brand new weapons, a customized new Hit Rate system to keep track of scoring and even more beautifully rendered CG cinematic sequences. Making their way through large multi-stage levels and huge boss enemies, both new and longtime fans of the series will enjoy hours of entertainment, depth and challenge. Dedicated fans will also uncover additional unlockable surprises.

As an added bonus for gamers and comic book fans, Neo Contra will feature exclusive poster and packaging artwork created by world-renowned artist, Jim Lee (X-men, Batman, Superman). Lee has worked closely with the development team to capture the essence of the new Contra game.

Neo Contra is being developed at Konami Computer Entertainment Tokyo by the core team behind such popular games in the series such as Contra: Hard Corps and Contra: Shattered Soldier. Neo Contra is slated for release in November 2004.

Neo ContraTM is a trademark of Konami Corporation and Konami Computer Entertainment Tokyo, Inc. © 1986 2004 KONAMI & Konami Computer Entertainment Tokyo. "PlayStation" and the "PS" Family are registered trademarks of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

E3 2K4 - Nano Breaker
Updated at 2:01 PM
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More from Konami's booth! A game from the creator of Castlevania. Check it out:

Konami Digital Entertainment - America, a division of Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc., today revealed new details of the futuristic action game Nano BreakerTM. Developed at Konami Computer Entertainment Tokyo by Koji Igarashi, the producer of the legendary Castlevania® series, Nano Breaker puts a unique shape-shifting Plasma Blade into the hands of gamers as they rip their way through an extraordinary sci-fi world to defend humankind from annihilation.

In Nano Breaker, players assume the role of Jake Warren, a military cyborg torn between his human emotions and his deadly machine instinct. When the nanomachines go awry, they begin to harvest the blood of humans and the iron of buildings in an effort to construct an army of monster machines. Entire populations and whole colonies are assimilated. Only Jake can stop the onslaught to save humankind.

The fast-paced gameplay of Nano Breaker keeps players moving through numerous stages of a futuristic world ravaged by nanomachines. Featuring intuitive controls for beginners and advanced combos for expert gamers, the game's unique, transformable Plasma Blade weapon allows for a myriad of gameplay options, including slicing and grabbing attack moves. Maintaining the intensity level of gameplay throughout the adventure, gamers will also experience extreme over-the-top visual CG cinematic scenes that add more depth and action to the game.

To capture stylistic blade actions and movement in the game, the development team worked closely with the stunt theatre company, JAPAN ACTION ENTERPRISE CO, LTD., who has collaborated with numerous Hollywood action-film celebrities as well as Japanese martial arts stars.

E3 2K4 - Metal Gear Solid 3 Snake Eater Camouflage Campaign
Updated at 1:59 PM
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Your chance to be in a game! And a big name game! Check it:

Konami Digital Entertainment - America, a division of Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc., today launched the Metal Gear Solid® 3: Snake EaterTM camouflage campaign, in which game fans worldwide can submit their own camouflage designs for inclusion in the video game from May 12 to June 30, 2004. Metal Gear Solid® 3: Snake Eater will ship for the PlayStation® 2 computer entertainment system in November 2004.

The Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater camouflage campaign invites gamers to step into the famed world of tactical espionage. Starting today, players can access information on the contest and submit their own camouflage designs to be worn by the main character in the game at http://www.konamijpn.com/camouflage/index.html. All submissions will be reviewed by critically-acclaimed creator and producer of the Metal Gear Solid series, Hideo Kojima, and the award-winning design team at Konami Computer Entertainment Japan. Winning entries will be featured in the final game and the creator's name and design will also be listed on the official Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater website, as well as in the end credits in the game. Three lucky winners will be announced at the Tokyo Game Show in Japan and will also be listed on the Konami website. Along with submitting camouflage designs, players will also be able to download camouflage patterns and incorporate them into the game when it ships this fall.

The definitive stealth action experience is given extraordinary new depth as the gameplay mechanics move beyond enemy surveillance via the series' signature radar control, to constant consideration of the soldier's integration with his environment. The new, in-depth "camouflage index" enables players to use the appropriate face paint and camouflage gear to blend into the environment, thereby avoiding enemy detection and aiding players in infiltrating dangerous enemy territory.

Promising an epic adventure similar in scale to that of a major Hollywood motion picture, Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater encompasses all of the elements of the ultimate entertainment experience including edge-of your-seat action, intense stealth gameplay, outstanding visuals and a majestic soundtrack. Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater raises the bar for action games across the board, introducing new features, a new era and a new setting to the series.

Set in the 1960s, Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater thrusts players into a time period rife with political turmoil, where the global political landscape and escalation of war are shaping real world history. Players will plot a dangerous solo mission to infiltrate a heavily guarded enemy territory and uncover highly coveted secrets behind a newly created weapon of mass destruction. Gamers will journey through fully interactive, immersive and open-ended outside jungle environments that bring the realism and stealth combat to a whole new dynamic.

Comprised of some of the best talent in the entertainment industry, the Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater design team is joined by screenwriter Kyle Cooper (Seven, The Hunt For Red October and The Fifth Element), to create an interactive opening sequence for the game. The blockbuster musical score is also composed by Harry Gregson-Williams (Shrek, Armageddon, The Rock, The Replacement Killers, Enemy of the State).

Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater is available to play at Konami's E3 2004 booth.

E3 2K4 - Karaoke Revolution Volume 2
Updated at 1:58 PM
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More from Konami's booth includes Karaoke Revolution Volume 2. Check out the release for it:

Konami Digital Entertainment - America, a division of Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc., today revealed 35 all-new chart-topping songs included in Karaoke RevolutionTM Volume 2. Making use of any PlayStation® 2 computer entertainment system headset/microphone peripheral and the game's proprietary voice recognition technology, which rates the pitch and rhythm of the player's vocals, Karaoke Revolution Volume 2 is set to be the hit of summer parties nationwide.

The 35 new instantly-recognizable tunes put the focus right where it should be - the music. Featuring some of the biggest karaoke club classics such as "I Will Survive," "Sweet Home Alabama" and "We Are Family," as well as today's top hits "Toxic," "The First Cut is the Deepest" and "Genie in a Bottle," fans will have plenty to sing about. The complete list of song titles are:

Song:
Baby One More Time
Born To Be Wild
Cry
Drift Away
Every Breath You Take
Friends In Low Places
Genie in a Bottle
Heartbreak Hotel
Here Without You
Hot Stuff
I Believe in a Thing Called Love
I Hate Everything About You
I Will Survive
I'll Make Love to You
I'm With You
Irresistible
It's My Life
I've Got You Under My Skin Jesse's Girl
Lady Marmalade
Let's Get It On
Miss You
My Girl
Papa Don't Preach
Perfect
Rich Girl
Rock and Roll All Night
Sittin' on the Dock of the Bay
Sweet Home Alabama
The First Cut is the Deepest
The Joker
Toxic
Virtual Insanity
We Are Family
White Flag

Karaoke Revolution Volume 2 features the original Karaoke and Arcade Modes as well as an enhanced Showtime Mode that will challenge would-be pop stars to move from the smallest venues to the top of the charts. Also new is the Medley Mode where players can link up to five song clips together and perform them all in rapid-fire succession for a unique karaoke experience. Karaoke Revolution Volume 2 is available to play at Konami's E3 2004 booth. The game ships this July for the PlayStation 2.

E3 2K4 - Eye Toy: AntiGrav
Updated at 1:54 PM
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Check out the fact sheet released by Sony for the Eye Toy: AntiGrav:

Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc.
Developer: Harmonix Music Systems
Platform: PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system
Genre: Extreme Sports/Physical Gaming
Players: Single-player
Peripherals: EyeToyTM USB Camera, DUALSHOCK®2 analog controller, memory card (8MB)(for PlayStation 2)
Launch Date: Fall 2004
Target Age: All Ages
Rating: "RP" for Rating Pending

OVERVIEW

From the creators of FrequencyTM, Amplitude and Karaoke RevolutionTM comes EyeToyTM: AntiGrav - a game that implements the EyeToy technology in a completely new way through hoverboard gameplay. EyeToy: AntiGrav represents the first step in incorporating EyeToy into character control gameplay through the use of color and body recognition technology. It is also the follow-up to the highly successful EyeToyTM: Play, which sold 3.5 million units worldwide since its release, and EyeToyTM: Groove, which enables players to dance in time with one of 28 licensed songs. For the first time, players will move their body, not a controller, to guide their 3D character in steering, speed, and trick maneuvers, as they interact with the environment and avoid obstacles. An original, interactive soundtrack changes according to the action on the screen, intensifying the sense of competition.

Unique armbands enable players to activate the color tracking capabilities of the EyeToy USB Camera. Together with facial and body recognition, racers will shred over diverse terrain through eight different levels, grinding on rails and taking flight to perform sick tricks, while interacting with the environment in exciting new ways. Gamers can pick the best racing line and discover hidden areas and unlockable sections along the fast-paced courses. Choose between different game modes to compete against other AI-controlled hoverboard racers, or challenge a friend as you race alongside the "ghost" image of your friend's best performance.
Taking the skate and snowboarding countercultures to new heights, EyeToy: AntiGrav features eight original characters with their own style and equipment, all part of the hoverboard scene. Each is equipped with the latest gear and technology that best suits their racing style, with the opportunity to earn gear upgrades in competitions throughout the game.

KEY FEATURES


EyeToy: AntiGrav is the first 3D character based EyeToy game that uses color-recognition technology to track body movement in an extreme racing environment, from the developers of FrequencyTM, Amplitude and Karaoke RevolutionTM.


The racer's movements are processed to control steering, jumping, grinding, ducking, acceleration, braking, tricks, environmental interaction, and interface navigation.


EyeToy: AntiGrav features eight original characters with their own style and equipment, all part of the hoverboard scene.


Strap on your hoverboard and shred over diverse terrain through eight different levels, grinding on rails and taking flight to perform sick tricks, while interacting with the environment and original soundtrack.


Choose between different game modes or compete against your friend as you race alongside the "ghost" image of your friend's best performance.


Explore multiple paths on each course, discovering short cuts and unlockable sections for gameplay versatility.


Play to earn equipment and additional upgrades, including unlockable characters and more throughout the game.


An original, interactive soundtrack by some of the industry's top producers captures the energy and excitement of each race in EyeToy: AntiGrav.

E3 2K4 - Gran Turismo 4
Updated at 1:49 PM
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Here it comes... E3 brings TONS AND TONS of new news. This is the first post of official E3 news.. here we go!

Sony Computer Entertainment America announced today further details regarding new game modes and features for the upcoming worldwideNovember 2004 release of Gran Turismo4, developed exclusively for the PlayStation2 computer entertainment system. Following in the footsteps of the PlayStation 2 "Greatest Hit," Gran Turismo 3 A-spec, and a racing franchise that has sold more than 35 million units worldwide, Gran Turismo 4 continues to deliver authentic racing gameplay with new fully enhanced features that focus on new gameplay physics encompassing more than 500 cars, up to 100 courses and unique original modes, including robust online gameplay via theNetwork Adaptor (Ethernet/modem) (for PlayStation2).

Developed by Polyphony Digital Inc., the latest version of Gran Turismo 4 further demonstrates its mission to provide the most authentic driving simulation available in the marketplace. New features at the Electronic Entertainment Expo will extend above and beyond just pure automotive racing, providing a unique destination for automotive and PlayStation 2 enthusiasts to enjoy car culture in every dimension - extending that goal will be highlighted through the new "GT Photo Mode," and the highly anticipated "GT Online Mode." In addition, enhanced popular features will return with "GT Career Simulation Mode" and "GT Arcade Mode" demonstrating more than 100 cars playable on eight unique courses at the show.SCEA - Gran Turismo 4 for PlayStation 2

"With the extensive amount of detail and realism that is sure to provide hours of endless entertainment, Gran Turismo 4 further extends the franchise to new heights, serving as a true pioneer in providing sophisticated videogame technology that showcases the best of both the automotive and videogame industries," said Ami Blaire, director, product marketing, Sony Computer Entertainment America. "At E3, show attendees will get a glimpse of the many new features and enhancements that not only demonstrate a new standard for the genre, but will continue to build momentum for its upcoming November release. With its broad appeal and strong entertainment value, we believe that Gran Turismo 4 should be a staple in every gamer's PlayStation 2 software library.

New and Enhanced Features For Gran Turismo

NEW FEATURES

GT Photo Mode - Players can travel around the globe with their car(s) and conduct photo sessions in various popular locations that include Piazza San Marco, Shibuya, Tsumago, Sagano and more. Once the photo is taken in the game, the player can save it to their memory card (8MB) (for PlayStation2) and have the option to share with friends or print out a color copy via a USB printer.

GT Online Mode - Mode in final product features head-to-head racing for up to six players per race. It includes chat functionality and in-depth menu screen for the ability to build communities to interact about automotive topics.

ENHANCED FEATURES

GT Arcade Mode - Players compete against each other or the artificial intelligence with select cars on select courses. Additional cars and courses are available in the GT Arcade Mode when they are unlocked in the GT Career Simulation Mode.

GT Force Wheel - To further enhance the automotive racing experience, in lieu of the DUALSHOCK2 analog controller, the GT Force Wheel developed by Logitech, can be used for the entire game. Available in black with brushed aluminum accents, the Gran Turismo branded GT Force Wheel provides a shifter for manual transmissions, 900 degrees of steering rotation and force-feedback. For more information, please visit www.logitech.com.

Cars and Course To Be Featured at E3 2004 in Gran Turismo 4

At E3 2004, more than 100 automobiles will be available, representing a variety of auto manufacturers from around the world. The final product will include more than 500 cars.

In addition, eight courses will be available including Nurburgring Nordschleife, listed below. The final product will contain up to 100 courses.


New York City


Fuji Speedway


Tsukuba Circuit


Grand Canyon


Citta di Aria


Costa di Amalfi


Hong Kong


Nurburgring Nordschleife - Featuring a 'rollercoaster-style' race course with various elevation changes and turns, located in the wooded hills of the Eifel plateau in Western Germany, Nurburgring is widely regarded as one of the most challenging race courses in the world. Opened in June,1927 with a total length of 20.8km and a total of 73 corners (33 left, 40 right), the track is considered legendary and mythical amongst many motorsport competitors and fans. The Formula One Grand Prix makes its stop at Nurburgring every year for the official Grand Prix of Europe and many auto manufacturers from around the world use the track as a testing ground.-more-SCEA - Gran Turismo 4 for PlayStation

Tuesday, May 11 2004

Raising the bar for adrenaline-infused, four-wheeled ATV racing action, Acclaim Entertainment, Inc. (NASDAQ.SC: AKLM), today announced that it will launch ATV Quad Power Racing 3 in the spring of 2005 for the current generation of console gaming systems. For the first time in the history of the Company's popular brand, ATV Quad Power Racing 3 will offer online head-to-head play for up to six players, complete ATV customization and an edit-a-rider functionality, providing gamers with the ability to personalize their racing experience.

"Our ATV brand is a consistent mass-market property and with next year's first-ever inclusion of online play, it will take this franchise to a new level," said Marc Metis, Senior Vice President of Brand Management for Acclaim. "Since 1997, sales of ATVs have climbed 89% and represent more than $3 billion in annual revenue1, and we are well positioned to capitalize on this increasingly popular sport with ATV Quad Power Racing 3."

Developed by Acclaim Studios Manchester, ATV Quad Power Racing 3 will feature:


Online head-to-head play for up to six players;


Stunning environments, including speed tracks and the backwoods while feeling the camera-shaking adrenaline of ATV riding;


Choice of 25 ATV's and customize parts and equipment;


Freestyle tricks lets players express their wild side while tearing past the competition;


6 different game modes: Single Race, Freestyle, Championship, Arcade, Time Trail and Multiplayer ? each offering the player the ability to develop their rider;


Edit-a-rider, allows players to create their own rider it take online and race against others;


Licensed music soundtrack from today's top recording artists;


True analog control and rumble feedback.

ATV Quad Power Racing 3 will be available in the spring of 2005 for the current generation of console gaming systems at suggested retail prices to be determined. For more information on this game, please visit www.acclaim.com. Acclaim's complete showcase of products will be featured at the 2004 Electronic Entertainment Expo in Los Angeles, CA at booth #152 in the Concourse Hall.

25 to Life Info
Updated at 12:03 PM
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Eidos has released some information in a press release regarding their game, 25 to Life. Check it out:

Eidos, one of the world's leading publishers and developers of entertainment software, in conjunction with Highway 1 Productions, takes an unrelenting look at urban street crime in its upcoming action video game 25 To Life. 25 To Life is being developed by Avalanche Software and will be available for PlayStation 2 and Xbox in spring 2005.

"25 To Life integrates the essence of cops and robbers with the attitude and lifestyle of street culture," says Kevin Gill, global brand manager at Eidos. "The open, urban environments, high-stakes multiplayer gameplay, and in-depth hip hop soundtrack not only brings the streets to the online space for the first time...25 To Life IS the streets!"

Set in the heart of today's cities, 25 To Life places gamers in the gritty reality of both police task forces and hardcore street gangsters. Fighting your way up the ranks is the only way to survive on the streets. Nailing perps will get you promoted. Gamers are offered a myriad of choices along the way like busting out of prison or infiltrating the inner sanctum of a drug lord's mansion. Either way, street knowledge will be put to the test as gamers must establish and defend their turf or uphold the law.

25 To Life delivers intense online multiplayer gameplay for up to 16 players, as well as a rich and compelling single player experience. Complete USB Headset support lets players conspire with gamers from around the world. The highly interactive urban environments deliver a superior and realistic street life experience.

"Avalanche is excited to be working with such talented partners in developing this game," said John Blackburn of Avalanche Software. "The contributions of Eidos and Highway 1 have been critical in the creation of the vision and realisation of 25 To Life."

25 To Life's fully customisable character system gives gamers the freedom to define their character's look and style. The player's status and online rankings increase by earning gear and outfitting themselves with the latest threads from today's hottest street-wear. The robust weapons arsenal includes both lethal and non-lethal ways to take down opponents. Depending on the side of the law gamers choose to play on, access will be given to either the proper police weaponry or illicit street weapons. Additionally, 25 To Life will offer a cutting edge hip-hop soundtrack featuring undeniable rap classics as well as the best of current and breaking artists.

Monday, May 10 2004

2004 Electronic Entertainment Expo- Middleware developer Havok announces today that their award winning Game Dynamics Engine will be on display in twenty nine different titles at the annual game industry E3 exposition. A new wave of next generation "dynamics rich" console and PC games will be unveiled at this year's prestigious event, both publicly and behind closed doors. The Havok powered titles at E3 represents the largest number of physics enabled games in the history of the industry.

The implementation of Havok as a core feature in these titles has been generating significant editorial coverage following their announcements, indicating that the inclusion of Havok produces great games and great reviews. Some of the teams and titles featuring Havok at E3 include Digital Extreme's "Pariah", EA's "Medal Of Honor, Pacific Assault", Ion Storm's "Thief 3", Midway's "Psi-Ops: Mindgate Conspiracy", Net Devil's "Auto Assault", Pandemic's "Full Spectrum Warrior" and "Mercenaries", People Can Fly's "Painkiller", Sammy's "Darkwatch", Sega's "Astro Boy", Sierra Entertainment's "Tribes: Vengeance", Valve Software's "Half-Life 2" and Volition's "Punisher".

"The sheer volume of Havok client titles on display at this year's E3 is exciting. This is a historic milestone for us and the gaming industry. It serves as a barometer of publishers' and developers' willingness to embrace Havok. The games being debuted are fantastic examples of how creative and varied game play can be. They are all very different in their implementation, bringing out the individual creative genius in each studio. We're seeing remarkable titles at E3 with interactivity that, frankly, wasn't possible to design, let alone deliver, prior to the industry-wide implementation of Havok Game Dynamics. On another note, rumors that E3 will change their name in 2005 to Havok-Fest are completely unfounded!"
David O'Meara, CEO, Havok

Havok will be participating at the 2004 E3, from May 11th - 13th with private meeting suites 7003, 7005, 7102 and 7104 in Kentia Hall at the Los Angeles Convention Center.

E3 2K4 - Midway
Updated at 3:49 PM
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The following is a list of the games Midway will be showing at this year's E3.

Area 51
The U.S. Army has received a distress signal from Area 51 where a viral outbreak has just shut down the research facility. A small Hazardous Materials unit led by specialist Ethan Cole is sent to investigate. As Cole, players will delve into the mysterious confines of Area 51, discovering a deadly mutagenic side effect of the virus that controls the minds of those infected, as well as an ancient alien colony buried beneath the facility. Chilling conspiracies such as the extraterrestrial crash at Roswell and the staged lunar landing, are investigated in order to solve the enigma of Area 51 before the viral mutagen is released and irrevocably mutates all life on Earth. Area 51 is scheduled to be available for the PlayStation® 2 computer entertainment system and the XboxTM videogame system from Microsoft in fall 2004.

Midway Arcade Treasures 2TM
Midway Arcade Treasures 2 brings more than 20 all-time classic arcade games to next-generation consoles, many for the first time, including the original Mortal Kombat, and smash-hit sequels Mortal Kombat II and Mortal Kombat 3, Spy Hunter 2 and Gauntlet 2. Additional classics include NARC, Total Carnage, Cyberball 2072, Wizard of Wor and many more. Players can enjoy hours of retro-gaming fun and watch a full-feature documentary on the origins of these interactive pioneers. Midway Arcade Treasures 2 is scheduled to be available for PlayStation 2, Xbox and Nintendo GamecubeTM in fall 2004.

MLB Slugfest®: LoadedTM
Unlike any other baseball game available, MLB Slugfest: Loaded takes the fast and furious gameplay style Midway Sports games are known for, and adds a deep and rewarding franchise mode through the addition of Baseball Mogul. Also new to this year's version is online multiplayer on both PlayStation 2 and Xbox Live. MLB Slugfest: Loaded is scheduled to be available for PlayStation 2 and Xbox on June 21.

Mortal Kombat: Deception
Delivering the most complete fighting experience and progressing the lethal intensity which the franchise has been known for since its 1992 debut in arcades, Mortal Kombat: Deception is set to revolutionize the fighting game genre. With unlimited online competition, Mortal Kombat: Deception features multiple fatalities per character; multi-tiered interactive backgrounds and extensive new game modes. Plus, for the first time ever, an enhanced free-roaming Konquest mode, an action/strategy board game and a unique puzzle game serve to compliment the improved fighting mode that has established the Mortal Kombat franchise as the ultimate fighting game of all time. Mortal Kombat: Deception is scheduled to be available for the PlayStation 2 and Xbox in fall 2004.

Psi-Ops: The Mindgate Conspiracy
An all-new battlefield weapon is deployed... the mind. And Nick Scryer, an American psi-operative must use his to defeat The Movement, a deadly terrorist organization. Undergoing an excruciating procedure, Scryer has his mind wiped clean so he can infiltrate the Movement undetected. Aided by double-agent Sara Blake, Scryer wields a whole new arsenal of weapons consisting of Remote Viewing, Telekinesis, Mind Control and Pyrokinesis in addition to the traditional armory needed to strategically defeat this new menace. Psi-Ops: The Mindgate Conspiracy is scheduled to be available for the PlayStation 2 and Xbox on June 14.

Shadow Hearts®: CovenantTM
The sequel to its critically acclaimed predecessor released in 2001, Shadow Hearts: Covenant takes place over a year after the original ended, and finds Yuri embarking on a new expedition during World War I in a fantastical world of magic and creatures. Cursed by a secret cult that is taking advantage of the war to fulfill their evil ambitions, Yuri's morphing abilities are weakened. Yuri and his companions must journey to find a cure for his curse and defeat the malevolent cult. Shadow Hearts: Covenant is scheduled to be available exclusively for the PlayStation 2 in fall 2004.

For more information about Midway's entire lineup of products being showcased during the Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3) in Los Angeles, May 12 - 14, please stop by room #4001 in Petree Hall or visit www.midway.com.

Catwoman Screens
Updated at 9:25 AM
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Also, there are now Catwoman screens in the Gameboy and Gamecube sections and art in the PC section. Here are, again, a few more shots to get you started:

Gamecube, PC, Xbox, PS2


Gameboy

Goldeneye: Rogue Agent Screenshots
Updated at 9:19 AM
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I have added some new screens of Goldeneye: Rogue Agent. Here are a few screens to get you started:

Sunday, May 9 2004

One of the most renowned anti-heroes of the past two decades is coming to next-generation console systems. Vivendi Universal Games today announced that PredatorTM: Concrete Jungle is currently in development by Eurocom Entertainment Software for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system and the Xbox® video game system from Microsoft. Slated for a Q4 2004 launch, the new 3rd person action/adventure game weaves the past with the future, as gamers become the terrifying Predator, hunting the Earth for criminals using superhuman powers, fantastic vision modes and an impressive array of alien weaponry.

"Built on the legacy of the fearsome film franchise, Predator: Concrete Jungle features a thrilling story that showcases quality gameplay with the signature abilities and weapons of the Predator in new futuristic settings," said Michael Pole, EVP of Worldwide Studios, Vivendi Universal Games.

Gamers will hunt down their prey in an urban killing zone as they take on the legendary role of the Predator. In Predator: Concrete Jungle, the gripping tale of the fearsome alien's history on Earth unfolds between two separate time periods, first the 1930s and then in the 2030s, as the Predator embarks on a mission of revenge upon a organized crime empire and its leader who seeks to conquer all Predators. Taking inspiration from the popular film franchise, the game allows players to roam the city landscape, stalking human prey while armed to the teeth with hunt-adapted vision modes, cloaking technology and extraterrestrial weapons of annihilation.

Game Features


Experience the hunt from the perspective of the Predator - kill at will or hunt with honor


Original story ties into established Predator mythology, including back story about the origins of the Weyland-Yutani empire


Arsenal of quintessential Predator weapons such as: wristblades, plasmacaster, combistick, speargun and smart disk


Highly responsive combat system that enables the Predator to stylize its attack moves for different prey


Four different vision modes to enhance the hunting experience: Thermal Scan, Neuro Scan, Prey Scan, and Tech Scan


City environments of the "concrete jungle" are the perfect hunting grounds for the Predator

Predator: Concrete Jungle will be available for a suggested retail price of $39.99, with an ESRB rating of Mature.

Friday, May 7 2004

The Chronicles of RiddickTM: Escape from Butcher Bay
Experience life behind the eyes of Richard B. Riddick as he sets foot inside Butcher Bay, the toughest prison this side of hell. Set before the events of both Universal Pictures' upcoming summer release The Chronicles of Riddick, starring Vin Diesel, and the 2000 cult classic Pitch Black, the game tells the story of Riddick's dramatic escape from the previously inescapable triple max security slam Butcher Bay, home to the most violent prisoners in the galaxy. Featuring the likeness and voice work of Vin Diesel, the game is played from a primarily first-person perspective (with special third-person actions). Using cutting edge normal mapping technology, the game meticulously recreates the horrors of the prison with vivid realism. To escape, players will have to make maximum use of the game's stunning environments, including using shadows, subterfuge and distractions to avoid patrols. Moving and attacking in darkness is particularly effective for Riddick as his haunting "eye shine" gives him the ability to see without ambient light. However, stealth won't serve every situation and players will be able to take the action up close and personal. As Riddick, players will be able to sneak up behind enemies and snap necks or fight face to face using fists, elbows and grapples. Additionally, players will be able to capture weapons such as shanks, shotguns, or assault rifles and use these to cut a swath of destruction through anyone who gets in their way. Riddick will be available in June of 2004 for the Xbox® video game system from Microsoft.

CrashTM TwinsanityTM (Titled CrashTMUnlimitedTM in Europe and Asia Pacific)
A new evil has invaded the island paradise of Crash Bandicoot®, with plans of destruction. In a strange twist, Crash reluctantly pairs with his archenemy, Dr. Neo Cortex, in order to save the world. Through this unorthodox partnership, Cortex is abused as Crash's favorite weapon when Crash and Cortex are controlled as one in this all-new gameplay mechanic. Gamers will encounter reactive enemies, fully immersive environments and a wacky cast of brand new characters in Crash Bandicoot's craziest and funniest adventure ever. Crash Twinsanity is scheduled for release third quarter 2004 for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system and the Xbox® video game system from Microsoft. Outside of North America this game will be titled Crash UnlimitedTM.

Dark Age of Camelot: CatacombsTM
Introducing Dark Age of Camelot: CatacombsTM the 3rd expansion pack to the best-selling, award-winning Dark Age of Camelot® massively multiplayer online role-playing game. You'll discover an underground city in each of Camelot's three realms, replete with hidden dungeons, new mysteries, fearsome enemies and catacombs that can be set up to host private adventures. With new classes and enhancements to character customization as well, Catacombs brings a whole new world of challenges to the Dark Age of Camelot fan. Dark Age of Camelot: Catacombs is scheduled for release in December 2004.

Empire Earth® 2
From the discovery of fire to the technological frontiers of the future, Empire Earth® 2 will serve up worldwide conquest on an epic scale. In the sequel to GameSpy.com's 2001 "PC Game of the Year," gamers will take control of a fledgling civilization and strive to forge the greatest of all empires. Empire Earth 2 builds upon the success of its predecessor by adding unique units, powers, leaders, and inherent bonuses to all of the game's 14 different civilizations. The game's new Crown System will provide temporary, but potent, rewards for players who demonstrate excellent military, economic, imperialistic, or cultural ability. A war planning screen will help teammates ;coordinate their efforts by allowing them to use a map of the world to diagram troop movements. Multiplayer competition will feature nine different game types, including new additions to the series such as "Hot Spots," which force gamers to capture and hold positions of strategic importance. Lastly, Empire Earth 2 will include popular player-requested features like recorded games, improved tournament support, multiplayer co-operative scenarios, and advanced statistics reporting. Empire Earth 2 will be available the first half of 2005, for the PC.

Evil GeniusTM
In this clever and entertaining strategy/life simulation game created by Elixir Studios, the player assumes the role of a wicked mastermind bent on achieving global domination through the construction of the ultimate doomsday device. A tongue-in-cheek take on the 60's spy thriller genre, Evil GeniusTM offers the player the chance to be the villain and control a secret island fortress complete with powerful (and strangely dressed) henchmen, mindlessly loyal minions and a wide range of hilarious gizmos. All the everyday tasks of the megalomaniac are available to experience as players build a secret base, train minions, gain infamy and notoriety by completing daring missions, toy with the forces of justice by setting clever traps, torture captives with ingenious devices, and develop evil super weapons to complete a nefarious master plan. Evil Genius is scheduled for release in September of 2004, for the PC.

FahrenheitTM
FahrenheitTM is a spectacular psycho thriller, set in New-York. For no apparent reason, ordinary people are randomly killing total strangers with the same ritual and pattern. Lucas Kane becomes one of these murderers. Finding himself in control of Lucas, the player is haunted by strange visions and the desperate need to find out what is happening to him. At the same time he must keep one step ahead of the police, especially Inspector Carla Valenti and agent Tyler Miles. A constant interaction with the storyline makes the story change as a result of your decisions. Fahrenheit gives gamers the unique chance to play both hunter and hunted, which in turn leads them to speak, explore, interact, fight and confront unknown dark forces. The final countdown has already begun. Fahrenheit is scheduled for release winter 2004, on the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system and PC.

Fight ClubTM
Players will be immersed in this gritty visceral world of fighting by playing as one of the many characters from the Fight Club movie. The extreme realism of the game will have players feel every punch and kick by delivering shocking visuals of broken bones, blood stained ripped clothes and real-time facial deformation in fully interactive environments familiar from the movie scenes. A no-holds-barred realistic fighter, the game will portray the brutality of street fighting while encompassing the artistic style, settings, storyline and characters from the movie with an extremely realistic fighting system and jaw-dropping special effects. With 3 different fighting styles and intuitive controls, ability to create fighters and online gameplay, the game will create a deeply rewarding yet challenging and unique experience for fighting fans of all levels. Fight Club is scheduled for release in fourth quarter 2004, on the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system and Xbox® video game system from Microsoft.

Ground Control® II: Operation Exodus
Ground Control® II is a real-time tactics game set in a gritty science-fiction universe. It delivers explosively fast game play focusing on combat tactics with full use of the 3D battlefield. Weather and other environmental effects also affect the unit's performance on the battleground. In the war torn year of 2741, Captain Jacob Angelus of the Northern Star Alliance (NSA) becomes the central figure in the fight against the warmongering Terran Empire. In an attempt to crush the NSA permanently, the Terran Empire sends in an alien race of powerful warriors - the Virons. It soon becomes apparent that the situation is bleak for the NSA and that their only hope is to embark on an Exodus to another part of the galaxy. Jacob Angelus must find a way to let his people survive. Ground Control II: Operation Exodus will be available in early July 2004, for the PC.

Half-Life®2
1998: Half-Life sends a shock through the game industry with its combination of pounding action and continuous, immersive storytelling. Valve's debut title wins more than 50 game-of-the-year awards on its way to being named "Best PC Game Ever" by PC Gamer and launches a franchise with more than eight million retails units sold worldwide. Now: Half-Life 2. By taking the suspense, challenge and visceral charge of the original, and adding startling new realism and responsiveness, Half-Life 2 opens the door to a world where the player's presence affects everything around him, from the physical environments to the behaviors - even the emotions - of both friends and enemies. The player again picks up the crowbar of research scientist, Gordon Freeman, who finds himself on an alien-infested Earth being picked to the bone, its resources depleted, its populace dwindling. Freeman is thrust into the unenviable role of rescuing the world from the wrong he unleashed back at Black Mesa. And a lot of people - people he cares about - are counting on him. The intense, real-time gameplay of Half-Life 2 is made possible only by Source, Valve's new proprietary engine technology. Source provides major enhancements in the advanced facial animation system, physics, graphics and AI. Half-Life 2 will be available for the PC.

Leisure Suit LarryTM: Magna Cum Laude
Developed by High Voltage Software, Leisure Suit LarryTM: Magna Cum Laude is the coming of age story about Larry Lovage, nephew of Larry Laffer, the series' original lovable loser. In Magna Cum Laude, Lovage starts as a pathetic loser enrolled at Community College who spends most of his time in his dorm room, or on campus striking out with women. After hearing about a reality TV dating show visiting his college campus, he resolves to revitalize his life and win. Over the course of the game, Larry sets out on an epic search for love (or its equivalent) and finds that things don't always go as planned. The Leisure Suit Larry videogame franchise began in 1987 with The Land of the Lounge Lizards, the first of seven games in the series. Since then, the Leisure Suit Larry games have sold millions of units worldwide and its games are considered collector items. Leisure Suit Larry: Magna Cum Laude will be available in October 2004 for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, the Xbox® video game system from Microsoft, and the PC.

Men of ValorTM
Men of ValorTM is an historical action experience that portrays infantry combat during the Vietnam War. Combining the latest Unreal technology with the gameplay expertise of 2015 (developers of the award-winning Medal of Honor: Allied Assault), the game immerses the player in the humid jungles of Southeast Asia in the most controversial conflict of the modern era. Men of Valor follows an American Marine through the early stages of the conflict in Vietnam to the Tet Offensive. Touching on the some of the most familiar scenes of the war as they exist in the popular imagination, the player guides his group of fellow soldiers through the hardship and confusion of the battlefield, bonding with them as they do their duty for their country with the heroism and valor typical of the American soldier, but unsung during the turbulent times. Men of Valor will be available in October 2004 for the Xbox® video game system from Microsoft, and the PC.

PredatorTM: Concrete Jungle
Gamers will hunt down their prey in an urban killing zone as they take on the legendary role of the lethal Predator within this 3rd person action extravaganza. The intergalactic hunter has its sights set on Earth in this new console game. In PredatorTM: Concrete Jungle, the gripping tale of the fearsome alien's history on Earth unfolds between two separate time periods, first the 1930s and then in the 2030s, as the Predator embarks on a mission of revenge upon an organized crime empire and its leader who seek to conquer all Predators. Taking inspiration from the popular film franchise, the game allows players to roam a vast city landscape stalking human prey while armed to the teeth with hunt-adapted vision modes, cloaking technology, and extraterrestrial weapons of annihilation. Predator: Concrete Jungle will be available in the fourth quarter 2004 for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, and the Xbox® video game system from Microsoft.

Red Ninja: End of HonorTM
Red Ninja: End of HonorTM is a third person action game that cohesively blends a variety of game-play features including action, adventure, stealth, and seduction and fighting. All these elements have been placed into Japan in the 1500's, here the power of the samurai class is fading and the use of the Ninja has become necessary to hold any political power in this chaotic time. Kurenai is a young girl who's world is destroyed when she and her father are attacked by the deadly Black Lizard Clan, a group that captures her and brutally hangs her by a wire and leaves her to die. Miraculously, she survives and is rescued and adopted into a clan where she obtains complete mastery of her unique weapon, the Tetsugen (steel wire). Kurenai has pledged her undying loyalty to her new family. She now lives to avenge her father's death and will go to any means necessary to destroy the Black Lizard Clan. Red Ninja: End of Honor is scheduled for release in the Fall of 2004, on the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system and the Xbox® video game system from Microsoft.

SpyroTM: A Hero's Tail
Spyro must save the Dragon Realms from the Evil Red Dragon who has planted light-sapping Dark Gems all over the Dragon Realms in an attempt to capture and control the world. With the help of his allies, Spyro must seek out and destroy all of the Dark Gems to return the lands back to normal and to save the Dragon Realms from the evil dragon's tyrannical control. Full of brand new dragon powers and abilities, gadgets, real-time morphing environments and five playable characters, A Hero's Tail is the greatest Spyro adventure yet! Spyro: A Hero's Tail is scheduled for release fourth quarter 2004 for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, the Xbox® video game system from Microsoft, and Nintendo GameCubeTM.

StarCraft: GhostTM
StarCraft: GhostTM, Blizzard Entertainment's upcoming tactical-action console game, refines the epic experience of StarCraft® to the level of the individual soldier. Engage the StarCraft universe face-to-face as Nova, a deadly Ghost operative in the employ of the Dominion. With the help of a determined group of allies, follow story-driven missions that take you from massive planetary battles through dangerous solo operations to an unexpected turn of events that leaves the fate of the universe in your hands. Featuring a revolutionary new style of gameplay that showcases Nova's physical and psionic abilities, as well as an arsenal of sophisticated weaponry, off-planet call-downs, and vehicles straight out of the StarCraft strategy game, StarCraft: Ghost will be available for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, the Xbox® video game system from Microsoft, and the Nintendo GameCubeTM.

Tribes®: Vengeance
In Tribes®: Vengeance, the next installment in the Tribes franchise gamers become immersed in a roiling galactic thriller. Throughout the game, the player catches glimpses of myriad interrelated stories that unfold behind-the-scenes and is given the opportunity to experience the full scope of the single-player story through multiple viewpoints and characters. Utilizing the Vengeance Engine powered by Unreal technology, the world is brought to life with characters that have facial expressions and fully-realized personalities, vehicles that kick up dust as they pass by, and weapons that display spectacular effects. Tribes: Vengeance will also build upon the Tribes series' legendary online multiplayer action by continuing to focus on team-oriented goals and fluid movement. Developer Irrational Games has hired one of the Tribes community's leading developers to head up the design and creation of the game's multiplayer component. Particular focus is being given to making Tribes: Vengeance easily accessible to the video game modification (MOD) community. Irrational Games and VU Games have worked together to ensure that Tribes: Vengeance's game modification tools are easily accessible and robust. Tribes: Vengeance will be available in the fourth quarter of 2004, for the PC.

Van HelsingTM
Van Helsing, the third-person action game, transports players to a new world of fantastical reality set in 19th century Transylvania - home to the legendary Dracula, Frankenstein's Monster and the Wolf Man. As the renowned monster hunter Van Helsing, players must hunt down and destroy the evil that inhabits these ancient lands before darkness engulfs the world. As players progress through Transylvania and the strongholds of Castle Frankenstein and Castle Dracula, they'll encounter untold fiends and evil minions including the legendary dark prince Dracula, Frankenstein's Monster, the Wolf Man and Igor as well as a host of original creatures created for the game including stone gargoyles, fell spirits and banshees. Van Helsing will be available May 7th for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, the Xbox® video game system from Microsoft, and Nintendo's Game Boy® Advance.

World of WarcraftTM
In World of Warcraft, Blizzard Entertainment's upcoming online role-playing experience set in the award-winning Warcraft®: universe, three years have passed since the aftermath of Warcraft III: The Frozen ThroneTM, and a great tension now smolders throughout the ravaged world of Azeroth. As the battle-worn races begin to rebuild their shattered kingdoms, new threats, both ancient and ominous, arise to plague the world once again. Being "massively multiplayer," World of Warcraft allows players to assume the roles of Warcraft heroes and interact with thousands of other players online as they explore, adventure, and quest across a vast world. Whether adventuring together or fighting against each other in epic battles, players will form friendships, forge alliances, and compete with enemies for power and glory. World of Warcraft is being developed for PC and Mac and is currently in the closed-beta phase of testing.

E3 2K4 - Acclaim
Updated at 3:43 PM
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These are the games Acclaim will be showing starting May 12 in LA @ E3:

100 Bullets - (PS2/Xbox) Based on the popular comic series published by DC Comics and created by Brian Azzarello, 100 Bullets delivers an original action experience set in an urban noir world of conspiracy and revenge. Part hard-boiled crime story, part paranoid espionage thriller, 100 Bullets follows what happens when people from all walks of life meet Agent Graves, a mysterious figure who offers his "clients" the opportunity of a lifetime: an attaché case containing the proof, the gun, and the carte blanche immunity to exact revenge on a person who's done them an irrevocable wrong.

All-Star Baseball 2005 - (PS2/Xbox) Ranked among the top-selling baseball video game brands, All-Star Baseball 2005 returns for another season to deliver the most authentic hardball video game action available today. Offering an array of new features, including online head-to-head play, downloadable rosters, FielderCamTM, BroadcastCam, analog-control batting, Spanish play-by-play and the exclusive T.W.I.B.® (This Week In Baseball®) Challenge, All-Star Baseball 2005 is the only game to put gamers in the on-field shoes of their favorite players.

Combat Elite: World War II Paratroopers - (PS2/Xbox) Go behind enemy lines with the military's most elite force ? paratroopers ? as they wage battles throughout the European theater of World War II, including D-Day, Operation Market Garden and the bitter winter defense of Bastogne. With over 60 authentic WW II missions and weapons, co-operative two-player gameplay and visually stunning environments, Combat Elite: World War II Paratroopers enlists gamers to undertake history's most dangerous missions where "failure was never an option." This June marks the 60th anniversary of the D-Day invasion. Combat Elite: World War II Paratroopers is driven by the renowned Snowblind engine, which is same the technology behind such as popular games as Baldur's Gate: Dark Alliance and Champions of Norrath.

Juiced - (PS2/Xbox/PC) Juiced is a racing simulation that totally immerses players in the lifestyle, community and risk-taking of the real-life street modding scene in a unique and compelling way. Juiced doesn't pay lip-service to the modding scene, it takes players there and immerses them in the culture ? racing for pink slips, creating crews and providing the complete freedom to customize cars ? from the dashboard to the drivetrain. Featuring over 50 licensed cars, 200 official aftermarket parts, and incredible online head-to-head play for up to 6 players and team-based racing; Juiced is one of this year's most anticipated racing titles.

SHOWDOWN: Legends of Wrestling - (PS2/Xbox) Battle through the annals of time clashing with the greatest grapplers to set foot in the squared circle. Create special dream matches, unlock classic feuds and travel down the "path of pain" in the first-ever era-based career mode to see if you have what it takes to beat the icons of professional wrestling! Featuring more than 70 of the greatest legends of all-time, including Hulk Hogan, Ultimate Warrior, Sting, Randy "Macho Man" Savage, Diamond Dallas Page, Rowdy Roddy Piper, Bret "Hitman" Hart, Jake "The Snake" Roberts, Andre the Giant and Dusty Rhodes, SHOWDOWN: Legends of Wrestling is the ultimate wrestling supercard!

The Red Star - (PS2/Xbox) Set in a breathtaking, award-winning universe, The Red Star flawlessly blends the fighting and shooting genre, offering an innovative high-action, character-driven co-operative gameplay experience. Based on the Archangel Studios' critically acclaimed comic series created by Christian Gossett, The Red Star tells the tale of an alternate Russia, the U.R.R.S., where massive technology and futuristic weapons are wielded by its army, The Red Fleet. Considered by GameSpy.com to be "One of the biggest gaming surprises seen so far in 2004", The Red Star has been likened to a cross between Final Fight-style brawling and Contra-style action.

World Championship Rugby - (PS2/Xbox/PC) A top-5 selling release in the United Kingdom and France since its launch, World Championship Rugby is this year's #1 selling Rugby brand throughout Europe. Developed by Swordfish Studios, World Championship Rugby has been garnering top marks among the press and is considered "the best the best rugby game on PS2' and "a brutal treat" by Europe's Official PS2 Magazine and Official Xbox Magazine, respectively.

Second Sight Screenshots
Updated at 10:41 AM
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I have added 14 screenshots of Second Sight, a stealthy psychic shooter.

Midnight Club 3: DUB Edition
Updated at 10:34 AM
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Rockstar Games announced the next installment of the Midnight Club series. Looking good, so far:

Rockstar Games, the world-renowned publishing label of Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. (NASDAQ: TTWO), is pleased to announce Midnight Club 3: DUB Edition, the third installment in the multi-million unit selling, genre-defining Midnight Club racing franchise. Rockstar Games has also announced a partnership with DUB, America's premiere automotive lifestyles magazine, to infuse Midnight Club 3: DUB Edition with an unparalleled level of expertise and understanding of the latest and hottest trends in the automotive industry and street customization scene. Developed by Rockstar San Diego, Midnight Club 3: DUB Edition will be available for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system and Xbox® video game system from Microsoft and is expected to hit North American and European retail shelves this holiday season.

"The Midnight Club series has re-defined the racing genre with its revolutionary open-ended racing and seamless integration of street racing culture," stated Dan Houser, Rockstar Games' Vice President of Creative. "Now, through the combination of Rockstar San Diego's technical prowess and DUB's notoriety as the pulse of the automotive lifestyle world, we are poised to once again push the boundaries of speed and style well beyond anything ever seen before in racing games with Midnight Club 3: DUB Edition."

"The previous Midnight Club games set the standard and raised the bar for racing games in the 21st century," said Jay Panek, Producer, Rockstar San Diego. "Now, with Midnight Club 3: DUB Edition, we are taking every opportunity to expand upon the signature features of the Midnight Club series, as well as creating all-new features, to produce the most exhilarating street-racing game ever. DUB's involvement, combined with our own experience at making open city racing games will undoubtedly solidify and legitimize Midnight Club 3: DUB Edition as the preeminent racing experience."

"We at DUB are extremely excited for the opportunity to bring our knowledge and influence to Midnight Club 3: DUB Edition, which is sure to be the quintessential racing game for any true aficionado of the automotive and racing lifestyle," said Haythem Haddad, Creative Director and Co-Founder, of DUB. "The flair for innovation and cultural progression that Rockstar Games and DUB are universally known for will undoubtedly become the trademark of Midnight Club 3: DUB Edition. We look forward to working with Rockstar Games to exceed the limits of what is expected of a racing game."

Hot Wheels Stunt Track Challenge
Updated at 10:30 AM
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THQ has just announced their next Hot Wheels game. Check out what they have to say about it:

THQ Inc. (NASDAQ: THQI) today announced that Hot WheelsTM Stunt Track ChallengeTM videogames are in development for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, the XboxTM videogame system from Microsoft, Nintendo®'s Game Boy® Advance and PC. The PlayStation 2 version will feature an online component, allowing six players to race head-to-head. All skus, which will feature extreme game show-style stunt challenges and sizzling fast racing action, are scheduled to release this fall.

"We're excited about the 'Fear Factor'-style gameplay of Hot WheelsTM Stunt Track ChallengeTM," said Jack Sorenson, executive vice president, worldwide studios, THQ. "This new, futuristic, reality show environment really spices up the traditional Hot WheelsTM racing action. While still packed with competitive speed challenges, Hot WheelsTM Stunt Track ChallengeTM will also require players to complete unique and shocking stunts to impress the audience and stay on the show."

"We're thrilled to work with THQ to bring a new interactive Hot WheelsTM experience to an expanding mass-market gaming audience," said Amy Boylan, senior vice president, Mattel. "Hot WheelsTM Stunt Track ChallengeTM combines a classic toy brand with a hot, fresh gameplay and television trend ? and throws in a cutting edge online element for a game that's sure to please."

In the Hot WheelsTM Stunt Track ChallengeTM videogames, players are thrust into competition on a hot new extreme game show ? on which they must complete perilous stunts and win intense races. The goal is to beat opponents and impress the audience with fearless maneuvers, in order to advance into other 'episodes' and win better cars. At the end of the season, the driver with the most courage and best stunt skills will cruise away in a gold-plated car as the Hot WheelsTM Champion. Players will choose from 30 authentic Hot Wheels® cars to compete in 24 stunt challenges on 12 different tracks set in environments such as Buccaneer Bay, Jurassic Jam, Zero Gravity Zone, Tiki Island, Spider Alley and Lava Land. Before each race, players can enter the garage to customize their cars with unique colors, wheels and decals. The Xbox version will allow four-player races, while the PlayStation 2 game allows for two-player racing action; or six-player action with a PlayStation 2 online account or LAN.

E3 2K4 - Activision
Updated at 10:27 AM
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This time, Activision has released the list of games they'll be showing at this year's E3. Exciting stuff!

Spider-Man 2 - Based upon the biggest movie event of the summer from Sony Pictures Entertainment's Columbia Pictures and Marvel Studios, and including other world famous Marvel comic book characters, players experience what it's like to be the world's most celebrated Super Hero, Spider-Man. Players can swing, sling, dive, jump and scale the heights of Manhattan to protect the innocent, in a living city with Super Villains, common criminals, vehicles, trains and helicopters. Spider-Man 2 has been rated "T" for Teen by the ESRB.

DreamWorks' Shark TaleTM - Players experience the fun and adventure of the DreamWorks movie by assuming the role of Oscar, a fast-talking little fish working his way up the food chain, who becomes an unlikely hero as he searches for an easy path to fame and fortune. DreamWorks' Shark Tale has not yet been rated by the ESRB.

Lemony Snicket's A Series of Unfortunate EventsTM - Lemony Snicket's A Series of Unfortunate Events is based on the book series and upcoming Paramount Pictures, DreamWorks Pictures and Nickelodeon Movies film starring Jim Carrey, Jude Law and Meryl Streep. It is the only game that lets players experience first-hand the misadventures of the savvy and resilient Baudelaire orphans. Lemony Snicket's A Series of Unfortunate Events has not yet been rated by the ESRB.

X-MenTM Legends - The first 3D action-RPG based on the popular Marvel characters, the X-Men, X-Men Legends challenges players to master the attributes of their favorite X-Men by creating, customizing and controlling teams of four mutants in real time. Assuming the role of more than a dozen popular Super Heroes, each with individual mutant powers and fighting skills, including Wolverine , Gambit and Storm , players lead teams of mutants as they battle the Brotherhood of Evil Mutants and other Marvel villains on a quest to stop the extinction of mankind and determine the fate of the world. X-Men Legends has not yet been rated by the ESRB.

Activision Redefines Innovation by Partnering with Premier Development Talent

DOOM 3TM - id Software's terrifying battle with the forces of Hell is invading the Xbox®. A massive demonic invasion has overwhelmed the UAC's Mars research facility leaving only chaos and horror in its wake. As one of only a few survivors, you struggle with shock and fear as you fight your way to Hell and back in an epic clash against pure evil. DOOM 3 has not yet been rated by the ESRB.

The MoviesTM - Developed by Lionhead Studios' Peter Molyneux, a pioneer in the "life simulation" genre, The Movies lets gamers become Hollywood players, by creating unique movies and releasing them from the studios they build, starring the actors they discover and develop. The Movies has not yet been rated by the ESRB.

Rome: Total WarTM - The latest edition in the Creative Assembly's award-winning Total WarTM series, Rome: Total War redefines the RTS genre by enabling gamers to take command of massive armies that wage war in epic, cinematic battles in the brutal world of the Roman Empire. Rome: Total War has not yet been rated by the ESRB.

Call of DutyTM: United OffensiveTM - Expanding on the award-winning, epic and cinematic first-person action of Call of DutyTM, Call of Duty: United Offensive delivers more of WWII's most legendary conflicts by offering over 10 new levels in an all-new single player campaign, as well as nine new multiplayer maps. Call of Duty: United Offensive has not yet been rated by the ESRB.

Call of DutyTM: Finest HourTM - The newest installment in the award-winning Call of DutyTM series, Call of Duty: Finest Hour takes console gamers to the frontlines of combat to experience the cinematic intensity, chaos of battle and epic moments of WWII across new campaigns from Northern Africa to the Eastern Front. Call of Duty: Finest Hour has not yet been rated by the ESRB.

Vampire®: The Masquerade-BloodlinesTM - Vampire: The Masquerade - Bloodlines takes the power of Valve's Source Technology, the driving force fueling Half-Life 2, and delivers a new type of RPG that blends the deep storyline, character development and interaction, exploration, and multiple solutions to quests of a traditional RPG, with the graphical beauty, fast action and first-person immersion of an FPS. Vampire: The Masquerade-Bloodlines has not yet been rated by the ESRB.

Thursday, May 6 2004

Fahrenheit, a spectacular interactive thriller, set in New-York, gives gamers the unique chance to play both hunter and fugitive, which in turn leads them to speak, explore, interact, fight and confront unknown dark forces.

For no apparent reason, ordinary people are randomly killing total strangers. Although there is no link between the murderers, they all seem to follow exactly the same ritual and pattern.

Lucas Kane becomes one of these murderers when he kills a stranger in the men's room of a restaurant. Finding himself in control of Lucas, the player is haunted by strange visions and the desperate need to find out what is happening to him. At the same time he must keep one step ahead of the police, especially Inspector Carla Valenti and her teammate agent Tyler Miles.

Key Features


You play more than one character in the game. How you act as one character can have a consequence on other characters you will control later in the game.


Fahrenheit blends the limits between cinema and interactivity in ways never seen before, all in real-time 3D.


The unique interactive writing techniques mean the player's actions really affect the storyline


Uses ICE technology (Interactive Creative Environment) : Two years in development, Quantic Dream's new generation of technology allows immersive 3D gameplay and graphics, unique cinema directing, virtual actors and cutting-edge motion capture animations.

Publisher : Sierra
Platforms : PC, PS2
Developper : Quantic Dream
Ship Date : Winter 2004
Category : Interactive psycho thriller

TimeSplitters Future Perfect
Updated at 11:33 PM
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EA Games announced their next title in the TimeSplitters series, which includes a co-op mode! Check out the press release that will tell you all. No sense in me rewriting it! The original tends to have enough info on its own:

Electronic Arts (NASDAQ: ERTS) announced today the return of one of the most critically acclaimed console first-person shooters with TimeSplitters Future PerfectTM, in development by Free Radical Design Ltd. and is to ship in early 2005 under the EA GAMESTM brand.

In TimeSplitters Future Perfect, victory is in the hands of the player's past, present, and future self in a battle that stretches throughout time where humanity is on the brink of destruction from the malevolent TimeSplitters. Cortez?the tough-as-nails hero from previous installments?finds himself in a frantic race against time in a desperate bid to trace the origin of the TimeSplitters and save mankind.

This third installment of the best-selling franchise will feature hundreds of hours of gameplay and an improved Story mode that ties all the missions together, immersing gamers in an epic adventure between the years of 1914 and 2401. Innovative "meet yourself" time travel gameplay lets players be their own ally by teaming up with past and future versions of themselves. The game also will allow two players to fight through the Story in Co-op mode, and features extensive Challenge and Arcade modes, and a Multiplayer mode that will allow gamers to battle in 16-player death match online on the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system. In addition, gamers will experience an improved Map Maker feature allowing them to easily create and play their own maps and share them online. TimeSplitters Future Perfect promises to be one of the deepest arcade shooters on the console with hundreds of unlockables, more realistic environments, spectacular special effects, high quality animated cut scenes, an improved physics engine, smarter enemy AI, and much more.

Under development by UK-based Free Radical Design Ltd, the team behind the celebrated TimeSplitters franchise, TimeSplitters Future Perfect is scheduled for release in early 2005 for the PlayStation 2 console, the Xbox® video game system from Microsoft, and Nintendo GameCubeTM.

E3 2K4 - Sega
Updated at 11:28 PM
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Sega's line-up for E3 this year is quite long. Hopefully all your favorite games are on it!

Altered BeastTM (PlayStation 2): As a special military operative, you are sent to investigate a deadly genetic outbreak in a small West Coast town. Hunted by unspeakable horrors and haunted by your past, you soon discover that in order to overcome evil, you must become more than evil. The only thing that can save you is your darkest power, the ability to transform into a variety of powerful beasts. As you defeat wave after wave of failed genetic experiments, the line between human restraint and primal instinct will blur, until nothing is left but the savage desire to uncover the true nature of the beast.


Astro BoyTM (PlayStation 2): Join Astro, the robotic superhero with a human mind in a jet-fueled adventure to reunite the robotic race with humans. Working with Tezuka Productions and Sony Pictures Consumer Products, SEGA's SONICTEAM studio has faithfully recreated the Astro Boy universe, paying homage to a classic icon of Japanese anime that is now a featured series on Cartoon Network. In Astro Boy, gamers use Astro's Rocket Feet, Arm Cannon, 1,000,000-horsepower Strength, X-Ray Vision and other special abilities to help save Metro City. With each case solved, Astro's skills develop; preparing him to face off against the strengths of Atlas, Acheron, the Blue Knight and more!


Blood Will TellTM (PlayStation 2): Blood Will Tell is a modern day action epic adapted from the classic manga by Osamu Tezuka (Astro Boy). Like the original manga, the game follows the adventures of Hyakkimaru, a samurai haunted by a shocking secret who embarks on a quest to uncover his past and regain his humanity. As a newborn baby he was robbed of every limb, every organ and even the ability to cry. He replaced his missing parts with weapons and departed on a quest to destroy the fiends who robbed his organs, hoping to regain his body and his future. Throughout the game, Hyakkimaru's friend Dororo is there to help and guide players and fight alongside Hyakkimaru.


ESPN NBA 2005 (PlayStation 2, Xbox): ESPN NBA 2005 will change the way virtual basketball is played with a host of new graphical improvements including self-shadowing, advanced reflective lighting, and full 3D crowds. Huge gameplay improvements in IsoMotionTM and the revolutionary 24/7 mode ensure responsive control and the most satisfying basketball experience available.


ESPN NFL 2005 (PlayStation 2, Xbox): ESPN NFL 2005 is uniting fans with a coupling of the most intense gameplay and the richest multi-player gaming experience possible. Maximum TacklingTM brings unique on-field control allowing gamers to go for the wrap-up tackle or deliver the big highlight hit. The addition of the V.I.P. SystemTM allows gamers to play friends, even if they're not there! Players are invited to show off their coaching skills in Franchise mode and utilise Weekly PrepTM to fully plan the training regime each week. Full online leagues and tournament play with living rosters rounds make this a complete online experience.


ESPN NHL 2005 (PlayStation 2, Xbox): ESPN NHL Hockey returns to the ice with the confidence of a seasoned veteran. Improved player control, an all-new fighting engine and lightning fast gameplay truly capture the feel and pace of NHL-calibre hockey. ESPN NHL 2005 features several new ways to play online leagues, multi-player mini-games and a deeper Franchise mode, all adding endless replay value to an already robust lineup!


Football ManagerTM 2005 (PC): Do you dream of managing the world's greatest teams? Perhaps you prefer to take your local team to promotion, or even to guide your national team to glory? Football Manager 2005 will give you an unparalleled choice - over 3,000 teams to manage, in 140 divisions, from more than 40 countries, including ALL of the world's top leagues. SEGA and Sports Interactive have teamed up to bring you the next stunning evolution in football management ? Football Manager 2005 will be the most in-depth, complete and realistic insight into the world of football management. [Sport's Interactive's Football Manager 2005 will be viewable by appointment only].


Headhunter Redemption (PlayStation 2, Xbox): Twenty years after the devastation caused by the Bloody Mary Virus, a new order has emerged, based on two distinct, but totally independent worlds, divided by the ultimate consumerist society ? 'Above' and 'Below.' Headhunter: Redemption continues the gripping story of Jack Wade, a veteran Headhunter keeping order in a futuristic world overrun with unchecked consumerism, vicious organised crime and mind-controlling mass media. When Jack and his protégé, the sassy, streetwise Leeza X, stumble upon an arms smuggling operation that threatens the status quo, they must work together to deliver an oblivious world from impending catastrophe, confronting their darkest fears beneath a shroud of evil that blankets the city.


Eastside Hockey Manager (Working Title)(PC): SEGA Europe proudly presents the most in-depth Ice Hockey Management game ever developed. Created by UK based Sports Interactive, Eastside Hockey Manager showcases over 15 years of Sports Interactive's development heritage. Eastside Hockey Manager allows ice hockey fans to take complete control of their favourite ice hockey team. Build and shape your roster by trading players, signing free agents and drafting promising youngsters while guiding your team towards glory. Select your team, set up practice schedules, select tactics and scout players from all over the world. Balance relationships with your current stars and the media to keep the fans and the owners of the club happy.


Otogi 2TM (Xbox): Otogi 2 takes place directly after the events chronicled in the original Otogi - Myth of DemonsTM. Raikoh, the famed undead warrior, managed to temporarily save the Japanese population from an onslaught of demons, but had not been able to vanquish them all before returning to his grave. The demons have now regrouped from hiding places within the sacred capital of Japan, and they are ready to attempt to take control over man once more. In response, five brave warriors ritualistically take their own lives to resurrect Raikoh. By fulfilling the ritual, Raikoh rises again and the five selfless warriors rise with him, all set to take on the encroaching demonic spawn as a team.


OutRun2TM (Xbox): Seventeen years since its first appearance in the world's arcades, the legendary racer returns. With blistering graphics, remixes of the original sound tracks and game play that demands one more play, the beautiful journey has never been so appealing. As an Xbox exclusive, with all new XboxTM Live and Mission modes being added to this conversion of the arcade original, OutRun2 is all set to deliver a unique console experience. Take the wheel of your chosen Ferrari and head to the open road to race against the clock from Palm Beach to one of five final destinations, including Tulip Garden, Metropolis, Ancient Ruins, Imperial Avenue and Cape Way.


SEGA SuperStarsTM (PlayStation 2): SEGA SuperStars for EyeToy is a compilation of 12 mini-games featuring classic SEGA characters and games redesigned exclusively for Sony's PlayStation 2 camera add-on. Now instead of just playing a favorite SEGA game, gamers are part of it! Race through with Sonic, battle Akira or Rau of Virtua FighterTM fame in a toe-to-toe power attack or play a variety of instruments in Samba de AmigoTM rhythm. Multiple mini-games across a variety of genres ensure that there is plenty of fun for the entire family.


Sonic HeroesTM (PC): Sonic and his friends have evolved, adopting a configuration feature that lets gamers control three playable characters simultaneously. Master each of the four teams to conquer huge, challenging new worlds. This team-based gameplay marks the next evolution in Sonics gaming career, taking PC gaming to a completely new level. Using the three formations and the powerful moves of each team member, Sonic and his friends combine forces to battle the ultimate evil in an all-star cast.


Sonic Mega Collection PlusTM (PlayStation 2): Sonic Mega Collection Plus is a celebration of one of the most successful game characters of all time, Sonic The Hedgehog. Dash through a frenzy of classic Sonic games featuring our favourite game character. With additional game content, including character illustrations, movies and comic book covers - Sonic Mega Collection Plus is a feast for every Sonic fan. All of your favourite Sonic games are back in the most entertaining Sonic compilation ever - Sonic the Hedgehog 1,2,3, Sonic & Knuckles, Dr. Robotnik's Meanbean Machine,and more!!!


SPIKEOUTTM Battle Street (Xbox): Ten years ago, bad blood spattered the streets in a turf battle between two now-legendary gangs: Team Spike (led by Spike) and Team Inferno (led by Michael). Now, Spike Jr. has spurred a new war against Team Inferno, which is still being led by his father's nemesis. Players get to explore a vast 3D world to engage in true hand-to-hand melee combat against a massive number of enemies. The game's Xbox Live feature allows players to experience cooperative gameplay with friends. Bonus online features include downloadable items, stories, characters, sound files and much more.


Warhammer Online (PC): Warhammer Online is a new kind of massively multiplayer online game set against the backdrop of Games Workshop's dark and gritty fantasy world. Take on the role of mercenaries and outlaws living on the margins of society, who through luck, skill and a trusty blade can rise to become powerful heroes. The game is set in a virtual re-creation of the Reikland, at the heart of the Empire, complete with towering mountains, dark, forests and dank dungeons populated by scores of terrifying monsters. In the company of thousands of other players, you can explore, trade, fight and die as you try to carve out a reputation for yourself as a tough warrior, powerful caster or cunning thief.


Worms Forts Under Siege (PlayStation 2, Xbox, PC): Since history began, castles have provided the backdrop to some of the most dramatic battles of all time... and in Worms Forts Under Siege, now it's your turn to take part in your own epic struggle, pitting fort against fort, worm against worm, and Catapult against Trojan Donkey! Unleashing destruction on a scale never before seen in a Worms game, take personal command of your worm garrison and battle your way through time... From Ancient Egypt, to the epic struggle for Troy, facing the might of the Samurai, or aiding King Arthur in his knightly quest! You'll need skill, strategy and a healthy dose of Worms attitude if you want to master all 30 different weapons, and unlock the huge array of hidden maps, speech banks, missions, and challenges.

E3 2K4 - Codemasters
Updated at 10:59 AM
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Codemasters' line-up for E3:

Codemasters will be offering a unique Big Brother style view of its E3 showcase via a dedicated area on its website. Featuring reports direct from the booth, there'll also be a live web cam feed to see the activity as it happens.

Codemasters' E3 Live page - www.codemasters.com/e3live - will launch as this year's E3 Expo opens next Wednesday, May 12th, in Los Angeles. In addition to the live web cam, there'll be regular news posted on the games on show ? including Colin McRae Rally 2005, the Club Football 2005 range, Dragon Empires, Soldiers: Heroes of World War II and a few big surprises ? along with a blog diary from Codemasters' online crew describing the high points and how hectic an E3 day is!

There'll be interviews with Codemasters' development teams as they reveal their latest games and website visitors will be able to interact with the team at the show in a forum. Giving everyone a glimpse of Codemasters' E3 experience, log on to www.codemasters.com/e3live from Wednesday May 12th.

#ENDS#

CODEMASTERS E3 LINE UP:


Club Football 2005 range (PS2, Xbox, PC)


Colin McRae Rally 2005 (PS2, Xbox)


Dragon Empires (PC Online)


IndyCar Series 2005 (PS2, Xbox)


Soldiers: Heroes of World War II (PC)


MTV Music Generator 3 (PS2, Xbox)


Operation Flashpoint (Xbox)


Perimeter (PC)


Wartime Comand (PC)

E3 2K4 - Mythic Entertainment
Updated at 9:44 AM
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The following is Mythic Entertainment's line-up for E3:

Mythic Entertainment, developer and publisher of the critically-acclaimed massively multiplayer online game "Dark Age of Camelot," today announced their lineup for the 2004 Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3). "New Frontiers" and "Catacombs," two expansions for "Dark Age of Camelot," will be on public display and "Imperator," Mythic's all-new Sci-Fi MMORPG will be unveiled for the first time behind closed doors. E3 2004 takes place in the Los Angeles Convention Center May 12- 14, and Mythic Entertainment is exhibiting in Concourse Hall meeting room #153C.

"Mythic's 2004 E3 lineup demonstrates both our ongoing commitment to 'Dark Age of Camelot,' and our new development efforts with Imperator," said Mark Jacobs, president and CEO of Mythic Entertainment. "'New Frontiers' and 'Catacombs' improve the 'Dark Age of Camelot' experience with new content, expanded strategic opportunities and a revised combat system. We're also looking forward to showing off 'Imperator,' our next-generation MMORPG which will be at the heart of a multi-genre development effort for the property."

To book an appointment with Mythic Entertainment during E3, please contact Kit Ellis at 415-777-4000, or kit@kohnkecomm.com.

About "Dark Age of Camelot: New Frontiers"
"New Frontiers," the free downloadable Realm vs. Realm (RvR) expansion to "Dark Age of Camelot," restructures the award-winning massively multiplayer online role-playing game's Realm vs. Realm combat system. Players from the game's three different Realms will vie for supremacy by laying siege to enemy keeps, invading enemy lands, and fighting one another in pitched battles. "New Frontiers" makes it easier to quickly locate battles, adds more strategy and tactics to battles, greater diversity in combat, and integrates more concrete bonuses and abilities as rewards for RvR combat. The design and testing process of "New Frontiers" is open to comment from the "Dark Age of Camelot" community, and the final version will reflect fans' input. For more information about New Frontiers, visit www.camelotherald.com/newfrontiers/ .

About "Dark Age of Camelot: Catacombs"
"Catacombs" is a retail expansion pack for "Dark Age of Camelot" in which players are given the opportunity to explore underground cities ? with attached adventuring areas ? based on the backstory of one underground player race per Realm. Many of these new adventures will be instanced, giving the player the chance to explore the underground world of "Catacombs" on their own schedule. The expansion features a major art upgrade to player character models that provides more detailed facial features, hairstyles, skin tones as well as enhanced armor and clothing options. The expansion also introduces one new player class per Realm.

About "Imperator"
"Imperator" is an Alternate EarthTM game, one set in a future world where Ancient Rome never fell. Small changes at crucial moments in Roman history create an entirely new timeline for Earth, leading to a star-spanning Roman Republica and thousands of years of interstellar Pax Romana. The Republic is home to many planets, each containing wildly different flora, fauna, creatures, culture, and climate. As the game begins, new threats to the Republic have sprung up from beyond its borders, making the galaxy more dangerous and the Republic itself less stable ? an exhilarating setting for an online gamer. Over the last few decades, many themes of classical Roman history have found their way into modern science fiction and fantasy - in "Imperator" the architecture, beauty, nobility, and even the savagery of Rome are the heart of the game. For more information about "Imperator," visit www.imperatoronline.com .

Destroy All Humans!
Updated at 9:42 AM
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THQ has some news on an upcoming game for PS2 and Xbox:

Word reached the highest levels of THQ Inc. (NASDAQ: THQI) today of a growing alien abduction and world domination conspiracy tied to a mysterious project ominously titled Destroy All Humans!TM. In collaboration with Pandemic Studios, developer of Full Spectrum WarriorTM, THQ is taking all prudent measures to thwart the invasion, including providing their unclassified intelligence to local civic organizations and to the population at large. While teams of top experts are still decrypting fresh information, THQ's brass has indicated that they believe the Destroy All Humans! onslaught will strike Sony PlayStation®2 and Microsoft XboxTM users across the globe in Spring 2005.

"We're in the business of publishing cutting-edge video games, though if you're at the right place at the right time, you sometimes get a chance to save the world too," said Peter Dille, Sr. vice president worldwide marketing, THQ. "When our teams uncovered this scheme to Destroy All Humans!, we felt it our civil duty to crack the conspiracy and save the planet."

Unnamed sources close to Dille have described Destroy All Humans! as a program designed by hideous aliens to unleash an intergalactic arsenal of destructive weapons and frightening psychic powers to subdue their most feared enemy in the galaxy ? Mankind! Specialists at Pandemic who have intercepted and deciphered several alien transmissions claim the invaders are called 'Furons' and that a fierce little extraterrestrial warrior named 'Cryptosprodium-137' will carry out their first reconnaissance mission. His mission is to infiltrate our society, control us, harvest our brain stems and ultimately destroy us all.

"Scary, when you think about it," comments Pandemic President Josh Resnick, himself a six-time alien abductee. "I mean, if destroying the earth's cities, abducting its citizens, and probing their minds to discover human weaknesses were all just some exciting new blast-happy destruction-fest for my Sony PlayStation2 or Microsoft Xbox, that would be one thing. But there's much more to it than that. Once they get you, get inside your mind...well, all I'm saying is, before they take me next time the least they could do is buy me a drink."

Top officials have promised additional details regarding Destroy All Humans! will be available at the Electronic Entertainment Expo, May 12-14 at the Los Angeles Convention Center. Until then, all citizens of Planet Earth are encouraged to remain calm and report any suspicious activities to their local THQ or Pandemic office immediately.

Wednesday, May 5 2004

LucasArts today announced its official 2004 Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3) lineup, which features Star Wars Knights of the Old Republic II: The Sith Lords, the follow-up title to last year's award-winning role-playing game. The original KOTORTM was released in 2003 and earned widespread acclaim throughout the interactive industry, including more than 35 "Game of the Year" awards. The Sith Lords will be officially unveiled at E3 2004 and will be released for the Xbox video game system from Microsoft and for the PC in February 2005.

Beginning approximately five years after the events of the first Knights of the Old Republic, The Sith Lords takes players on an entirely new journey as they assume the role of what is believed to be the last Jedi in the galaxy. The game features a cast of memorable returning characters and sinister new villains. Using more than 30 new Force powers, players can turn weak-minded enemies against one another in combat with "Force confusion" or see through doors and view character alignment with "Force sight." Assigned to protect the Old Republic and the Jedi Order from the terrifying Dark Lords of the Sith, players must explore and battle through seven diverse worlds while being challenged whether to choose the light side of the Force or surrender to the lure of the dark side.

The Sith Lords is published by LucasArts and developed by Obsidian Entertainment Inc. For more information, please visit the official product website at www.swkotor.com.

LucasArts will also highlight the following titles at E3 2004:

Star Wars BattlefrontTM Star Wars Battlefront is an action/shooter game that gives fans and gamers the opportunity to re-live and participate in all of the classic Star Wars battles like never before. Players can select one of a number of different soldier types, jump into any vehicle, man any turret on the battlefront and conquer the galaxy planet by planet online with their friends or offline in a variety of single player modes. Battles are set up in more than 15 environments across 10 diverse planets, such as Hoth, Endor and Tatooine, in addition to memorable Clone Wars locations like Kamino and Geonosis. Star Wars Battlefront will be released for the PlayStation2, Xbox and PC on Sept. 21, 2004, day and date with the release of the Star Wars Trilogy DVD set.

MercenariesTM
Mercenaries is a revolutionary third-person combat-action game that delivers the next level of free-form gameplay in massive interactive environments. The game gives players the opportunity to take on the role of a soldier for hire in an open-ended world, letting players choose to be one of three mercenaries: an American ex-soldier, a British secret agent or a Swedish bounty hunter. Each playable character has unique strengths and weaknesses that affect gameplay. The nonstop action within Mercenaries is heightened by the integration of the Havok physics engine, making everything within the environment act and react as it would in real life. LucasArts will deploy Mercenaries in early 2005 for the PlayStation2 and Xbox.

Star Wars Republic CommandoTM
Star Wars Republic Commando is a squad-based first-person shooter that lets players explore the elite world of the Star Wars military. Leading a three-man squad of Republic commandos, players embark on a variety of missions that go deep behind enemy lines in more than 14 intense and challenging levels, spanning three unique campaigns. As a Republic commando, you will have more than a dozen deadly weapons at your disposal, including the game's ultimate weapon - your squad itself. The innovative "One-Touch Squad Control" system lets players command orders to their squad with the touch of just one button. Star Wars Republic Commando will be released in Fall 2004 for the Xbox and PC.

Star Wars Galaxies®: Jump To LightspeedTM
The struggle between the Galactic Empire and the Rebel Alliance extends into space with Star Wars Galaxies: Jump to Lightspeed, the first expansion for the award-winning Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing game set in the Star Wars universe. Set in the Star Wars timeframe between Episode IV and Episode V, this first extension opens 10 vast and distinct space sectors, spanning from the Core Worlds to the Outer Rim, for players to explore while engaging their opponents in intense real-time combat or uniting with friends in battle or exploration. Players can embark on more than 100 new missions, venturing through asteroid fields, nebulae and space junkyards while honing skills in four new space-specific professions. Star Wars Galaxies: Jump To Lightspeed will be released in Fall 2004 for the PC.

E3 2K4 - Square Enix
Updated at 2:04 PM
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The following is Square Enix's line-up for this year's E3. It looks promising, as do many of the other companies' displays!

Square Enix U.S.A., Inc. ("Square Enix U.S.A."), publisher of Square EnixTM interactive products in North America, today announced its Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3) line-up of new video game releases for multiple gaming platforms as well as other forms of entertainment. All of the titles will be on display at the Square Enix U.S.A. booth (#624) in the South Hall of the Los Angeles Convention Center.

"The products we are showcasing at this year's E3 will exemplify some new and interesting directions for SQUARE ENIX," said Jun Iwasaki, president and C.E.O. of Square Enix U.S.A. "A variety of games will be available for demos, and we're very excited about some surprises we have in our line-up. Not only are we exploring different types of RPGs, we're also looking to build upon some of our original content, our most popular franchises, and applying them into other forms of media. The future of entertainment will encompass more than presenting content in a singular format such as in a movie, videogame or comic book; the new entertainment experience will cross platforms and media."

Console Games

FRONT MISSION® 4
FRONT MISSION 4 marks the debut of the popular mech-based strategy game series on the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system. Utilizing the technological capabilities of the system, FRONT MISSION 4 brings you the newest chapter in the best-selling series. While boasting an enhanced battle system, outstanding new graphics and dramatic voiceovers, FRONT MISSION 4 maintains the strategic gameplay that has won acclaim from both gamers and press worldwide. As in the previous games, players can fully customize their wanzers, or mech units, with a variety of powerful weaponry and parts. In addition, new tactical features such as the "Link System" bring a new dimension of strategy to the game.

Set in 2096, FRONT MISSION 4 opens as an unidentified group of wanzers assaults and destroys an E.C. German base. The player's point of view switches between two main characters that find themselves trapped within a dangerous global conspiracy. Elsa, a new recruit in the E.C.'s Durandal corps, is sent to Germany with her team to investigate the attack. The story then shifts to Darril, a U.C.S. Army sergeant in South America. He and his company are sent to Venezuela after its governor declares independence from the U.C.S. Though Darril's squad seems far more interested in slacking off than fighting a war, their plans for early retirement are put on hold after they witness a fateful plane crash in the jungle.

FRONT MISSION 4 will be released June 15, 2004. This title is rated "T" for Teen. More information about FRONT MISSION 4 can be found on the official game site at www.square-enix-usa.com/games/fm4/.

STAR OCEANTM Till the End of TimeTM
The first PlayStation 2 installment in the acclaimed science fiction RPG series, the Director's Cut version is considered to be the culmination of the developer's true vision. STAR OCEAN was originally released with two versions in Japan. The development time was extended for the North American release in order to incorporate the extra features of the Director's Cut, the only stateside release of the title. STAR OCEAN builds on the first-rate concepts of earlier games in the series and leverages the technological capabilities of the PlayStation 2 to surpass them. In addition, the larger data capacity of the Director's Cut allows for multiple added extras providing the most complete game package possible. Incorporating the new features with gorgeous, extended cinematic sequences and an unparalleled real-time battle system, including a new VS. mode, STAR OCEAN is sure to attract a new group of admirers and thrill the longtime fans of the series.

STAR OCEAN's protagonist, Fayt Leingod brings his family and childhood friend, Sophia Esteed to the Federation-managed resort planet Hyda for a long-deserved vacation. Their dreamy holiday turns into a nightmare when Hyda is attacked by an unknown space military. In the heat of the attack, Fayt is separated from Sophia and his family and begins an emotional quest into the unknown to find his loved ones.

STAR OCEAN will be released August 2004. This title is rated "T" for Teen.

FULLMETAL ALCHEMISTTM and the Broken Angel
Square Enix U.S.A. is proud to bring the action-adventure RPG Fullmetal Alchemist to the PlayStation 2 in Spring 2005. Developed by Racjin, Fullmetal Alchemist is the story of two brothers, trained in the ways of alchemy, who find themselves on the adventure of their lives as they seek the mysterious Philosopher's Stone.

The story begins as Edward and Alphonse Elric hop a train to the capital city of Central. But an impromptu hijacking forces them into an all-out brawl against a rebel military faction. Fortunately, Edward has more than a few tricks up his sleeve with a variety of alchemy skills; he can transmute everyday objects into powerful weapons. After the hijackers are defeated, a shocking new twist is revealed, sending the brothers' path askew and leading them to their wildest quest yet...

Fullmetal Alchemist is scheduled for release in Spring 2005 and will carry an ESRB rating of "T" for Teen.

FINAL FANTASY® XII
Our story takes place in a world called "Ivalice," in an age when magic was commonplace and airships plied the skies ? the Archadian Empire, seeking to strengthen its base of power, had been invading and subjugating its neighboring lands one by one?a fate which befell the small Kingdom of Dalmasca. Archadia's invasion and the subsequent death of the Dalmascan king prompted the Princess Ashe, the sole surviving heir to the Dalmascan throne, to take up arms against the invaders.

In her struggle to oust the occupying Archadian forces and restore freedom to her people, Ashe must watch as many of her allies pay the blood price for that freedom. Though tempted to abandon all hope in the face of the Empire's might, her determination keeps her from succumbing before what would seem to be inevitable defeat. Then she meets Vaan, an urchin from the Dalmascan capital of Rabanastre. Vaan dreams of one day becoming a sky pirate, escaping the Empire on his airship. Vaan, Ashe, Vaan's friend Penelo, the sky pirate Balthier, his partner Fran and many more are on an adventure through Ivalice that traces the mysteries behind the Archadian Empire's invasion.

Bringing with it a wide array of new gameplay elements, FINAL FANTASY XII will change the way players think about the FINAL FANTASY series. Numerous possibilities abound within each scenario, allowing for a less linear, more unique experience for each player. The game also supports Dolby Pro Logic II both in-game and during movie sequences, immersing the player in the middle of the action. True to the series' tradition of progress and change, FINAL FANTASY XII will move the role-playing genre forward and establish itself as another landmark title for SQUARE ENIX.

FINAL FANTASY XII is scheduled for release in North America in 2005. This title has not yet been rated by the ESRB.

KINGDOM HEARTS® II
It has been a year since the events of KINGDOM HEARTS. Sora and friends are joined by a vibrant new cast of characters, including the king himself. Together, they will face countless dangers in worlds both familiar and brand-new. It seems the Heartless still exist. A new villain also awaits ? but is it an old foe behind the mask, or a new menace? This mystery and others will be solved as the story unfolds in a grand adventure. KINGDOM HEARTS has sold over 4 million units worldwide and continues to gain popularity with fans of both DISNEY and SQUARE ENIX across the planet.

KINGDOM HEARTS captured the imagination of gamers young and old by combining classic DISNEY properties and implementing new characters and worlds with SQUARE ENIX's renowned style. The tale is brought to life by an all-star voice cast. Fans will revisit this beloved story and come to care for a new troupe of characters in KINGDOM HEARTS II.

The release date for KINGDOM HEARTS II will be announced at a later date. This title has yet to be rated by the ESRB.

Handheld
For Game Boy® Advance

KINGDOM HEARTS® CHAIN OF MEMORIES
KINGDOM HEARTS CHAIN OF MEMORIES for the Game Boy Advance bridges the gap between KINGDOM HEARTS and KINGDOM HEARTS II, continuing Sora's tale where the original left off. One night, after traversing endless grassy fields, Sora comes to a crossroads. His mind swims as he recalls his lost friends. They were supposed to return home at journey's end...but this was not to be. A man emerges from the shadows and speaks to Sora: "Ahead lies what you seek...but to claim it you must lose something dear." When the man vanishes, only a single path remains. At the end of that path lies a castle, and inside that castle stretches a vast nothingness. Sora's memories lay fragmented before him, swirling and spiraling upwards to a great adventure. What will Sora gain, and what will he lose?

By implementing elements never before seen on the Game Boy Advance, KINGDOM HEARTS CHAIN OF MEMORIES promises to deliver an unsurpassed gaming experience to players. New features include high-quality movie event sequences and a card-based battle system. As the latest collaboration between DISNEY and SQUARE ENIX, KINGDOM HEARTS CHAIN OF MEMORIES for the Game Boy Advance will continue to expand the series' fan base and appeal to gamers of all types.

KINGDOM HEARTS CHAIN OF MEMORIES is scheduled for release Fall 2004. This title has yet to be rated by the ESRB.

Online

FINAL FANTASY® XI Chains of PromathiaTM (Expansion Pack)
New areas such as Movalpolos and the Tavnazian Archipelago will be available through the expansion titled "Chains of Promathia." This expansion pack continues the adventure in award-winning FINAL FANTASY XI, the first cross-platform, cross-continent MMORPG. The first online title in the world-renowned series has quickly become one of most popular MMORPG to date, boasting a community of 500,000 players and 1.2 million active characters from Japan and North America combined.

The subterranean city of Movalpolos was dug and built by a tribe of Goblins referred to as the Moblins. Due to the nomadic nature of most Goblins, it is extremely rare for any of these beastmen to reside together in one place, making this community extremely unique.

The Tavnazian Archipelago is made up of tiny islands off the west coast of Quon, once home to the proud nation of Tavnazia. The remnants of the beastmen army remain in control of the archipelago, and until now, it was thought that none of the former inhabitants had survived.

FINAL FANTASY XI Chains of Promathia is scheduled for release Fall 2004. This expansion has yet to be rated by the ESRB.

Other Entertainment

FINAL FANTASY® VII ADVENT CHILDRENTM
Two years after the events of FINAL FANTASY VII, the ruins of Midgar stand as testament to the sacrifices that were made in order to bring peace. However, the world will soon face a new menace. A mysterious illness is spreading fast. Old enemies are astir. And Cloud, who walked away from the life of a hero to live in solitude, must step forward yet again...

FINAL FANTASY VII ADVENT CHILDREN is a fully developed, CG-work sequel to FINAL FANTASY VII, the seminal 1997 PlayStation hit. Through approximately 60 minutes of beautifully crafted DVD content, FINAL FANTASY VII ADVENT CHILDREN revisits the rich universe and memorable characters of FINAL FANTASY VII two years after its dramatic conclusion. Technological advancements bring a visually stunning new look to the city of Midgar and its residents.

FINAL FANTASY VII, originally released in Japan for the PlayStation console on January 31, 1997 (September 7, 1997 in North America), redefined the standard for role-playing games (RPGs) and has since achieved record-shattering sales of over 9 million units worldwide. Fans have long requested a true sequel, and with FINAL FANTASY VII ADVENT CHILDREN, their wishes are granted.

The release date for FINAL FANTASY VII ADVENT CHILDREN will be announced at a later date.

Mobile Entertainment Content
SQUARE ENIX MOBILE brings the same level of technological and visual excellence that gamers have come to expect from SQUARE ENIX products to handsets and other mobile platforms. SQUARE ENIX hopes to shape the future of mobile entertainment as the company addresses a growing and international wireless audience in Japan, the United States, Europe, China and Taiwan.

SQUARE ENIX's mobile phone content has already enjoyed widespread popularity in Japan. Released in March 2004 in Japan, FINAL FANTASY® and DRAGON QUEST for NTT DoCoMo's new 3G phones (the 900i series) will be available for demonstration at the SQUARE ENIX booth. These titles are heavily featured in the 900i marketing campaign and come preinstalled on some handsets. Other mobile content available for demonstration include a 3D modeling sample of Cloud (main character, FINAL FANTASY VII), SQUARE ENIX Gallery (a collection of downloadable wallpapers available through AT&T Wireless' mModeTM service) and Brave ShotTM, a fast-paced shooting game available through the Verizon Wireless Get it NowSM service.

Visitors at the SQUARE ENIX booth will be in for a surprise to see the latest development from SQUARE ENIX MOBILE: BEFORE CRISIS ? FINAL FANTASY VII. The trailer will be premiering at E3, providing an exclusive look at a game that could possibly take mobile entertainment to a whole new level.

Tuesday, May 4 2004

After a stunning debut performance, reaching No 2 in the All Formats UK Charts at launch last season, Codemasters' unique range of team-specific Club Football games became the new force in football gaming. Now some of the best teams in Europe are once again lined up for a new season with further signings for the Club Football 2005 range*.

Coming this autumn for PlayStation 2, Xbox and for the first time, PC**, the expanded range will be powered by an accelerated game engine and new animation system to deliver faster and more responsive gameplay for precise control on the pitch.

More clubs join the range this year, which will see an individual and official video game for the top UK and continental European football teams from Manchester United Club Football 2005 to Real Madrid Club Football 2005. Current new English signings to the range are Tottenham Hotspur Club Football 2005, Birmingham City Club Football 2005 with more major clubs still to be announced.

"We delivered what football fans wanted ? a great game of football, specific to their team," says Nick Wheelwright, Codemasters' Managing Director. "We are aggressively supporting the Club Football 2005 range both commercially with major new signings, the introduction of PC editions as well as investing in design and development to make it one of the game market's dominant brands backed by the biggest collection of the most powerful football club headline licenses."

With twice the amount of official team content in each game, great skill moves and new game modes including Career, Practice and classic Scenarios, the new Club Football 2005 range will bring players even closer to the heart of the action and the heart of their team.


Play a real game of football: Accelerated core gameplay engine and new animation system makes for incredibly responsive gameplay with precise control.


Fast and fluid gameplay: With an immediate response between the gamer and the player on the pitch, see players react at lightening speed ? including goalkeepers with refined AI and animations.


Real skills: A host of new skill moves including: the Quick 135-degree pass, dummies, close control, fakes, cancels and fine positioning adjustment.


More football action specific to your team! Play in Domestic, European and Custom matches and tournaments, plus new game modes:
- Career: Create yourself as a player and hone your skills in preparation to play for the first team.
- Practice: Perfect your shooting, passing, crossing, dribbling and skill moves.
- Scenarios: Putting the pressure on, it's your chance to play a part in a classic match. These short term challenges, throws you into the middle of match, which needs real skill to rescue a win!


Double the amount of official club content! The most official, team-specific content of any football game including an exclusive and individual opening sequence, filmed at each club. All new Club Album section with masses of memorabilia to unlock through the new credit points system, including behind the scenes videos created especially for the games.


Incredibly detailed players and stunning visual effects: The most detailed head and body modelling system enhanced with new player facial animations displaying real detail and emotional quality. A bespoke atmospheric lighting system lifts and accentuates the action on the pitch.

Launching this autumn for PlayStation 2, Xbox and, for the first time, PC the fixture list for the Club Football 2005 range currently includes:

UK TEAMS IN THE PLAYSTATION 2 & XBOX RANGE
- NEW! Tottenham Hotspur Club Football 2005
- NEW! Birmingham City Club Football 2005
- Manchester United Club Football 2005
- Liverpool FC Club Football 2005
- Arsenal Club Football 2005
- Chelsea Club Football 2005
- Celtic Club Football 2005
- Rangers Club Football 2005
- Leeds United Club Football 2005
- Aston Villa Club Football 2005
- + more to be announced

** NEW! PC CLUB FOOTBALL GAMES
- Manchester United Club Football 2005
- Liverpool FC Club Football 2005
- Arsenal Club Football 2005
- Real Madrid Club Football 2005
- Borussia Dortmund Club Football 2005
- FC Bayern Munich Club Football 2005
- Ajax Club Football 2005

CONTINENTAL PLAYSTATION 2 & XBOX RANGE:
- Real Madrid Club Football 2005
- Borussia Dortmund Club Football 2005
- Hamburger SV Club Football 2005
- FC Bayern Munich Club Football 2005
- Ajax Club Football 2005
- FC Barcelona Club Football 2005
- AC Milan Club Football 2005
- FC Internazionale Club Football 2005
- Juventus ? Club Football 2005
- + more to be announced

E3 2K4 - THQ
Updated at 11:47 PM
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Check out THQ's line-up for this year's E3:

THQ Inc. (Nasdaq:THQI), the #2 independent videogame publisher, today announced plans to debut several of its highly anticipated console, PC and handheld releases at next week's Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3) in Los Angeles. Console gamer content including Destroy All HumansTM, The PunisherTM, WWETM Day of ReckoningTM and Full Spectrum WarriorTM will be available for demonstration along with brand new PC titles S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Shadow of Chernobyl and Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War. THQ will also present the most expansive mass-market product portfolio in the industry, including games based on "The Incredibles," "The Polar Express," and "The SpongeBob SquarePants Movie," three of the biggest feature films scheduled for holiday 2004. These titles and others will be available for hands-on demonstrations in the THQ booth, #1024, in the South Hall of the Los Angeles Convention Center May 12-14.

"Our 2004 portfolio caters to every segment of the game playing audience," said Brian Farrell, president and CEO, THQ. "Games like S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Shadow of Chernobyl, Destroy All Humans, Dawn of War and Full Spectrum Warrior are already winning critical praise and gaining traction at retail. Additionally, we have an expansive portfolio of games based on premiere mass-market brands including 'The Punisher' along with highly anticipated holiday feature film releases, such as 'The SpongeBob SquarePants Movie,' 'The Incredibles,' and 'The Polar Express.' In addition, THQ Wireless is also unveiling sports applications for wireless devices at the show."

THQ's E3 Lineup includes games in every genre, including:

From the Silver Screen:

The Incredibles - Following the success of the Finding Nemo videogame, which shipped more than five million units worldwide, The Incredibles is the second offering in THQ's three property deal with Disney and Pixar. The Incredibles tells the story of a family of undercover superheroes that are trying to live a quiet, suburban life, but are forced back into action in order to save the world. The game is expected to launch simultaneously with the film, which will hit theaters on November 5, 2004. The Incredibles videogame will bring action and adventure to the PlayStation®2, XboxTM, GameCubeTM, PC/Mac, and Game Boy® Advance systems this fall.

The SpongeBob SquarePants Movie - Based on the highly anticipated November 2004 release of "The SpongeBob SquarePants Movie," this action platform game is being developed by Heavy Iron Studios, creators of the critically acclaimed SpongeBob SquarePants: Battle for Bikini Bottom, released in October 2003. The SpongeBob character continues to hold the #1 Q-score rating for kids aged 6-14 and is the most watched animated show in TV history by kids. The franchise also has all-ages appeal, with 30% of viewers between ages 18-49. Scheduled for PlayStation 2, Xbox, GameCube, Game Boy Advance and PC this fall.

The Polar ExpressTM - Based on the tent-pole holiday release from Warner Bros. Pictures, The Polar Express, directed by Robert Zemeckis and starring Tom Hanks, brings the magic of Christmas to life in beautiful CG animation. The game is being developed by THQ's Australian studio and will ship for PlayStation 2, GameCube, Game Boy Advance and PC in conjunction with the film release this holiday season.

For the Hard Core PC Gamer:

S.T.A.L.K.E.R. Shadow of Chernobyl - Boasting some of the richest graphics ever delivered on a PC, S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Shadow of Chernobyl brings to life the actual Chernobyl terrain in the year 2012 - six years after a mysterious second explosion rocks the landscape. As a "stalker" exploring the vast "Exclusion Zone" to procure artifacts for the black market, players must survive mutant creatures, dangerous anomalous areas, competing "stalkers" and a military charged with quarantining the 30 square kilometer area. Developed by GSC Game World and powered by the all-new X-ray engine, S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Shadow of Chernobyl is scheduled for release on the PC this fall.

Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War - From "Game of the Year" developer Relic Entertainment, Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War takes strategy gaming to new cinematic, visceral heights. Set in a universe ruled by brutal warfare, four ancient enemy races collide with a single objective - annihilation of all others. Named to PC Gamer's "Top 10 Games of 2004" list and garnering PC Gamer's April issue cover feature, Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War is scheduled for release on the PC this fall.

Core Titles:

Full Spectrum Warrior - Based on a training tool developed for the U.S. Army to reinforce training at the Infantry level, Full Spectrum Warrior is the most realistic portrayal of urban warfare via true squad-based gameplay. After garnering many critical accolades including Best of E3, magazine covers such as OXM, a perfect score from Maxim, as well as Playboy's June Game of the Month, the much-anticipated Full Spectrum Warrior is scheduled for release on the XboxTM in early June and on PC this fall.

The Punisher - Developed by THQ's Volition studio, The Punisher is based on the ever-popular Marvel comic book series. The game is built for players to enter the mind of the Punisher. More than just shooting, it will be important for players to walk into a room and think 'What would The Punisher do?' Features like character interrogations and highly interactive environments add a layer of depth that truly set this game apart. The Punisher is scheduled for release on PS2 and Xbox in early 2005.

WWE Day of Reckoning - Developed by Yukes, WWE Day of Reckoning features the WWE's top Superstars including, Kurt Angle®, Chris Benoit® and Triple H®. Players will transform a rookie's dream into a Superstar's reality as they fight their way to the top of WWE programming in an all-new story mode filled with deception and betrayal. WWE Day of Reckoning from THQ and JAKKS Pacific is scheduled for release on the GameCube this fall.

Destroy All Humans! - Developed by Pandemic Studios, creators of Full Spectrum Warrior, Destroy All Humans! turns players' conventional expectations of playing the human defending against an alien invasion to now allow them to play the alien hell bent on infiltrating and taking over all of humanity. Destroy All Humans! delivers an open ended world where the player can rain down destruction from his UFO or land at any point to walk among the humans as the 3rd person alien subverting and terrorizing all of humanity. Packed with humorous science-fiction mythology and tons of conspiracy theory. Players will soon discover that it is better to be the superior being. Scheduled for release on the PlayStation2 and Xbox in early 2005.

THQ will also showcase Tak 2: The Staff of Dreams, the next installment in THQ and Nickelodeon's million-unit selling original Tak franchise. Additionally, THQ and Nickelodeon will unveil their first game for the PlayStation 2 EyetoyTM, Nicktoons (working title), in which popular Nickelodeon characters interact in multiple Nickelodeon cartoon environments.

THQ Wireless will demonstrate several new games on the latest mobile devices, including Olympics 2004, Midway, NFL, NHL and a baseball title. For more information on THQ's 2004 E3 lineup, visit www.thq.com.

E3 2K4 - Namco
Updated at 11:43 PM
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Here's Namco's Line-up for this year's E3:

Namco Hometek Inc. unveiled today its strongest new games line up to date, to be showcased at the upcoming Electronic Entertainment Expo in Los Angeles, May 12-14, 2004 (booth #1300, L.A. Convention Center).

New installments of Namco's best-selling franchises will make their debut at the show, including ACE COMBAT® 5, TEKKEN® 5, Xenosaga® EPISODE II, Dead to Rights® II, TIME CRISIS®: CRISIS ZONE, Tales of SymphoniaTM and Smash Court TennisTM Pro Tournament 2.

Namco will also showcase new original content including Street Racing SyndicateTM, DEATH BY DEGREESTM featuring Nina Williams from TEKKEN®, GhosthunterTM, Baten KaitosTM, The Adversary, and Taiko Drum MasterTM (tentative title).

"Namco is showcasing its most impressive line up of new content ever at this year's E3Expo," said Robert Ennis, chief financial and operating officer for Namco Hometek Inc. "We have taken our core franchises to exciting new levels and are introducing some incredible new content with our biggest showing ever at E3. We think convention goers will really take notice of Namco's significant presence this year at the show."

Elevating to new heights in 2004 is ACE COMBAT 5. Introducing Wingman Command, ACE COMBAT 5 is the premier air combat game combining ultra-realistic graphics and dog fighting with the sheer excitement of soaring through the air, destroying enemy planes and ground targets. Players experience the thrill of commanding a squadron, knowing that the squadron's fate is in their hands. The game features over 50 different licensed planes and an intense storyline with over 30 missions, providing hours of non-stop flying action - making ACE COMBAT 5 bigger and better than ever before! Shipping in Fall 2004, ACE COMBAT 5 will be available for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system.

Nights are filled with high-risk, nitrous-injected, illegal racing on real city streets in Namco's Street Racing Syndicate. With money, pink slips and respect always on the line, and cops lurking behind every corner, SRS is taking street racing games to a new level. Players can customize over 40 licensed cars with authentic parts, cool paint, and anything else bought or won from sanctioned or illegal races. Race in both closed track and open city environments, meet at secret locations or pull up on opponents on the open streets. And for the first time ever, throw down with real-life opponents all over the world via online pink slip races. From hot cars with lifelike physics and damage, to beautiful models picked from the pages of today's top import magazines, SRS delivers the most intense, complete street racing experience ever in a video game. Shipping in Autumn 2004, SRS will be available for the PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system, the Xbox® video game system from Microsoft, and the Nintendo GameCubeTM.

Dead to Rights II marks the return of action-hero Jack Slate and his K-9 companion, Shadow. In this super-charged sequel, Jack and Shadow find themselves once again in the mean streets of Grant City, ensnared in a labyrinth of crime, corruption and betrayal. Dead to Rights II is a third-person action shooter featuring gritty, Hong Kong cinema-style action and innovating new gameplay mechanics such as greater interaction with Shadow; brutal, all-new disarm moves; a lightning-fast 360 degree fighting engine; vicious melee weapon battles; and a dramatic new spherical slow-motion diving system. Shipping in Fall 2004, Dead to Rights II will be available for the PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system and the Xbox video system from Microsoft.

TEKKEN's ultimate assassin, Nina Williams, stars in DEATH BY DEGREES as the voluptuous undercover operative sent to recover a stolen weapon from a disgruntled terrorist who double-crossed his own underground organization. Using a cutting-edge combat system to fight enemies in all directions, DEATH BY DEGREES combines signature moves from TEKKEN with firearms and melee weapon attacks. Shipping in Fall 2004, the game will be available for the PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system.

The epic sequel Xenosaga EPISODE II picks up right where EPISODE I left off. With a new, more realistic looking character art style, players can look forward to improved graphics, an improved battle interface and more outdoor environments (rain, snow, rivers, etc.). Xenosaga EPISODE II will be shipping in early 2005 exclusively for the PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system.

Tales of SymphoniaTM is the latest installment in Namco's enormously popular Tales franchise. Using characters designed by renowned anime artist Kosuke Fujishima, Tales of Symphonia allows players to command real-time battles in a unique 3D battle system that gives them full control over the characters, executing hundreds of special attacks and magic spells. With more than a dozen mini-games and side quests at the player's disposal, Tales of Symphonia offers over 80 game play hours. The game will ship exclusively for the Nintendo GameCube entertainment system in July 2004.

Ghosthunter blends the action and adventure aspects of a third-person shooter with macabre humor. Players battle vengeful sprits and are equipped with a selection of high-tech weaponry and gadgets specially designed for hunting and capturing ghosts. Diverse cinematic locations set the scene and make the game come to life with eerie versions of familiar sights, including an Alcatraz-style prison and a haunted ship. Ghosthunter will be available in the North American market in August 2004 for the PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system.

Players can enjoy an unprecedented level of interaction with the environment in TIME CRISIS: CRISIS ZONE, the most ambitious new installment of the TIME CRISIS® series to date. Using the GUNCON®2, gunfire has a realistic effect on almost everything in the game: players can blow up items on shelves and tables, shatter glass windows and doors, and destroy beams, statues, and even desktop computers. Players who have two GUNCON®2 guns can select a single- or double-gun game to take down enemies John Woo style, adding a fun and unique element to the game. Shipping in September 2004, TIME CRISIS: CRISIS ZONE will be available for the PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system.

In Namco's Smash Court Tennis Pro Tournament 2, players can train and compete in actual Grand Slam tournaments. Create and customize players in Pro Tour Mode, then take them through the tennis rankings all the way to the top. Players compete in the Australian Open, Roland Garros (French Open), Wimbledon, and the US Open against such pros as Andy Roddick, James Blake, Lleyton Hewitt, Serena Williams, Kim Clijsters, Anna Kournikova, and ten others! Shipping in Summer 2004, the game will be available for the PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system.

Enter Baten Kaitos on a journey to unlock the mystery of the lost sea in an enchanting story of friendship, betrayal, and prayer. Over 1000 types of "Magnus" cards deliver an intense battle system combined with breathtaking graphics and a world overflowing with character detail. Baten Kaitos will be available for the Nintendo GameCube.

Namco will be located in the South Hall in booth #1300 of the Los Angeles Convention Center from Wednesday, May 12 - Friday, May 14, 2004. Throughout the convention show hours, Namco will have various events and contests occurring on-stage in its booth, including martial arts demonstrations, prize giveaways, gaming contests and more.

A Look @ Pre-E3
Updated at 11:31 PM
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We are updated today with a press release from LA regarding the status of E3 and all of its participants. This is going to be a damn exciting expo this year. Many new games to show (and some that were supposed to be released already... *ahem*Half-Life2*ahem*). Check it out:

Approximately 1,000 of the nearly 5,000 computer and video game products to be displayed at the 2004 Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3Expo) have never been seen before, according to data released today from the E3Expo 2004 Exhibitor Survey by the show's owner, the Entertainment Software Association (ESA). Exhibitors also report that nearly three-quarters (72 percent) of all products at the tenth anniversary show will be in stores in time for the 2004 holiday season.

"The interactive entertainment industry and its products have made tremendous advances since the launch of E3Expo ten years ago - whether it be technologically, economically, artistically or in terms of just plain fun - and the popularity of games has increased along with those achievements," said Douglas Lowenstein, president of the ESA, the trade association that represents U.S. computer and video game publishers and owns E3Expo. "One thing that hasn't changed over the past decade is that E3Expo is the best place in the world to 'see what's next' for the industry and to get a first look at the gameproducts that consumers will soon be buying, playing and talking about."

Ninety-four percent of all exhibitors responded to the survey, which asked participants to detail the products they will be showing at E3Expo 2004. The survey results indicate that about 40% of products displayed will be for video game consoles, while about one-third will be for personal computers. Specifically, of all products, including software, hardware and accessories, that will be showing at E3Expo 2004:


40.3 percent will be for video game consoles;


30.7 percent will be for personal computers;


18.4 percent will be for PDAs, wireless phones and other;


6.8 percent will be for handheld game devices;


3.8 percent will be for online/internet games.

Exhibitors also reported that they will be showing games of all types, with the most titles falling into the action and adventure, educational and edutainment, and sports and driving genres. According to survey respondents, titles showing at E3Expo 2004 will fall intothese categories:


Action/Adventure games (26.6 percent);


Educational/Edutainment games (15.8 percent);


Sports/Driving/Racing games (12.5 percent);


Role Playing games (7.3 percent);


Child/Family games (7.1 percent);


Strategy games (6.3 percent);


Arcade games (4.9 percent);


Simulation games (3.7 percent);


Other games (15.8 percent).

E3Expo's "First Looks" program will specifically spotlight those products that are being shown for the first time ever at E3Expo. Participating "First Looks" exhibitors will be designated in the E3Expo exhibit guide, the E3Expo Show Daily, the official E3Expo website (www.e3expo.com) and on the exhibit floor beginning May 12. Though the show is open only to industry professionals, consumers can get a look at these and other products through E3Expo's "virtual gateway," www.e3insider.com.

More than 400 of the world's top interactive entertainment companies will convene for the tenth anniversary E3Expo, which will occupy more than 525,000 sq. feet of exhibit space at the Los Angeles Convention Center (LACC) from May 12th to May 14th. Over the past decade, E3Expo has hosted exhibitors in a total of more than 4.5 million square feet of floor space, approximately 520 times the length of the Golden Gate Bridge.

E3Expo is the world's premier trade show for computer and video games and related products. The show, now in its tenth year, is owned by the Entertainment Software Association (ESA), the U.S. association dedicated to serving the business and public affairs needs of the companies publishing interactive games for video game consoles, handheld devices, personal computers, and the Internet. For more information, please visit www.e3expo.com.

Star Ocean Till the End of Time
Updated at 11:28 PM
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A press release has been posted to discuss the latest info regarding Star Ocean Till the End of Time for PS2. Here it is for you to read in full:

Ubisoft, one of the world's largest video game publishers, today announces the signing of an exclusive publishing agreement with Japanese video game producer, Square Enix, famous for its FINAL FANTASY® franchise. Star OceanTM Till the End of TimeTM is slated for a European release on PlayStation® 2 in Autumn 2004.

Alain Corre, Ubisoft's managing director for Europe, Asia Pacific and South America, said "We are very proud that Square Enix, one of the best RPG creators in the world, chose Ubisoft as a publishing partner for the new opus of their mythic franchise Star OceanTM. It is the very first time in this current generation of machines that this mythic brand will be introduced to European gamers and no doubt they'll praise it as THE PlayStation® 2 RPG game of the Year."

"We are very excited at the prospect of bringing such a strong title as Star OceanTM Till the End of TimeTM to the European public," said John Yamamoto, president of Square Enix Europe. "This demonstrates our commitment to bringing an ever-greater range of quality titles to the PAL market."

Star OceanTM Till the End of TimeTM uses the same recipe for success as other Square Enix games such as FINAL FANTASY® X-2, which adds an intense story to sublime graphics and engaging characters. All these ingredients and much more are gathered in Star OceanTM Till the End of TimeTM, offering beginners as well as RPG fans more than 60 hours of renewed pleasure in an original sci-fi universe. During the eventful quest started by two charismatic teenagers looking for their dear ones, every decision has an influence on the variable endings. The exceptional quality of the graphics owes a lot to the use of a new powerful 3D engine. This new feature enabled the creation of breathtaking environments and cut scenes and fantastic effects during battle, without the nuisance of long loading times. The dynamic battle system revolutionizes Japanese RPGs and gives an impressive pace to the game. Indeed, in Star OceanTM Till the End of TimeTM, players can fight real time battles and plan their strategy thanks to the absence of random fights and hidden enemies. They can even fight against each other thanks to the two-player battle mode. To add to the experience, Square Enix worked with talented Japanese composer Motoi Sakuraba (Star OceanTM: The second Story, Valkyrie Profile) to create an original and immersive soundtrack, available in Dolby® Surround sound system.

Euthanasia Professional Racing
Updated at 11:22 PM
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An announcement has been made today by Konami regarding one of their latest games in development, Euthanasia Professional Racing. Check out the press release:

Konami of Europe today announced EnthusiaTM Professional Racing, a new racing game developed by Konami Computer Entertainment Studios, scheduled for release on the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system in 2005. Designed to bring all of the white-knuckle energy and thrill of car racing to life, EnthusiaTM Professional Racing features groundbreaking gameplay mechanics, enhanced physics and pixel-perfect graphics to deliver an unprecedented racing experience.

EnthusiaTM Professional Racing steps away from the norm in the racing genre, opting to focus on the driving experience rather than the time spend "under the hood." Winning will require superior driving ability, establishing EnthusiaTM Professional Racing as a true racer for driving Enthusiasts who appreciate the details of car physics, performance and motion. The realism of the game is bolstered by the innovative and proprietary Visual Gravity System which conveys a true sense of G-forces experienced by high-speed driving and maneuvering around a race track. This innovative feature is a first for the racing genre and gives gamers the ability to see and feel the pressure exerted on a car during racing.

Set to be the most realistic racing game to date, EnthusiaTM Professional Racing will include hundreds of cars from more than 40 real manufacturers ? each car driven and captured in real life by the development team. Photo-realistic graphics stand out as players race on dozens of real and fictional tracks around the world. Multiple camera views, including both a first and third person orientation, allow for players to get behind the wheel or on top of the action. Variable weather conditions pose additional challenges that require players to stay on their toes.

As players pass and weave their way to the front of the pack, they benefit from on-the-fly information about car handling, tire traction and more. While stage-based tuning allows even those who could never do their own oil changes a chance to upgrade their cars, proprietary AI demands that even the most "supped-up" entry make the right moves on track. Approachable gameplay for novice drivers yet challenging for experts, EnthusiaTM Professional Racing is a racing game that will appeal to players of all levels.

Playable in single or two player mode, EnthusiaTM Professional Racing takes advantage of the PlayStation 2 controller with pressure sensitive control of the analog buttons ? allowing players to "feather" the gas and brake. For gamers that want to take complete control of the action, EnthusiaTM Professional Racing will also be compatible with PlayStation 2 driving wheels, including the Logitech GT ForceTM steering wheel.

To learn more about EnthusiaTM Professional Racing, please visit: http://www.enthusia-racing.com