Whoops!
The cat is out of the bag. The PSP:GO is real. E3 hasn't even started yet and already the megatons are starting to fly! The
PSP:GO is revealed in the June 2009 Episode of Qore. In case you don't know Qore is subscription based video program found exclusively on the PSN network. Somehow the episode wound up on-line, along with
some revealing photos, and some 'official' specs.
Honestly, I believe this is what they call a controlled
leak. The circumstances surrounding this "leak" seem a bit fishy. Early depictions of this long
rumored device were strangely accurate. And the path this story followed is one frequented by the PR and viral marketing crowd. Its been a long journey
from rumor to reality with many unusual stops along the way. In the end I'm just happy this little wonder device has finally
been confirmed. And now that I've seen it with my own eyes my excitement has increased one hundred fold.
As you can see the machine is incredibly
sexy. Its slimmer, smaller, and lighter than the current design. It has 16GB of built in memory. However it also supports
Memory Stick Micro, which gives the PSP:GO great options for expandability. There is even a possibility that games could be
released on the memory stick format. (Something that might please retailers.)
As expected the machine does not
have a UMD slot. This last bit may cause a small amount of controversy but I think we all knew the death of the UMD was coming.
Here are the leaked official specs. Please note, this is the only part of this story I would consider uncomfirmed.
Even though I'm sure these specs are legit, Sony may have a couple of surprises for us come E3.
Offical
Name - PSP Go
3.8″ LCD Screen
43% Lighter then PSP-3000
16GB Flash Memory
Memory
Stick Micro Support
BlueTooth Support - HeadSet and Cellphone Support
All Digital Content - No UMD
Support
Slide Out Controls
Remote Play Support
The system may launch along side mega hits like Little Big Planet, Ratchet and Clank, Metal Gear Solid
and even the long rumored Gran Turismo Portable. Rumors also circulate claiming the PSP:GO will use a subscription based
game download service much like 'Zune Pass' for the Microsoft Zune Media Player.
We eagerly await further
details. Until we learn more we're counting the day until the E3 Expo. See you there!
Submitted By: E. Thomas ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
With an Expansive Line-Up of FINAL FANTASY Games, the Company Announces New Portfolio of Games across Action, Shooter
and RTS Genres Developed from Around the World
Square Enix, Inc., the publisher of Square Enix interactive entertainment
products in North America, announced today a broad lineup of titles for the 2009 E3 Expo, taking place between June 2 –
4. Highlighting the steps it has taken to become a more global entertainment company, Square Enix will not only feature games
developed in partnership with U.S. and European developers such as FRONT MISSION EVOLVED , ORDER OF WAR and SUPREME COMMANDER
2 at their booth; but continues to offer the highest-quality experiences across all platforms, with highly anticipated new
games such as DISSIDIA FINAL FANTASY and FINAL FANTASY XIII, in addition to the next installment in the beloved KINGDOM HEARTS
franchise, KINGDOM HEARTS 358/2 Days.
"As our best-selling FINAL FANTASY franchise continues to evolve, Square
Enix is focused on creating the best entertainment experiences for all gamers," said John Yamamoto, president and chief
executive officer of Square Enix, Inc. and Square Enix Ltd., "Our new partnerships with companies such as Double Helix,
Gas Powered Games and Wargaming.net are a testament to our commitment to offer a much broader variety of games across different
genres. All while Square Enix remains unchanged in the quality and depth of story we bring to all of the games we publish.
We look forward to showcasing the results of these partnerships at E3 2009 as well as several much awaited FINAL FANTASY titles
and KINGDOM HEARTS 358/2 Days."
E3 2009 Lineup
DISSIDIA
FINAL FANTASY Developer: Square Enix Co., Ltd. Publisher: Square Enix, Inc. Platform: PSP (PlayStation
Portable) system Genre: Action-RPG ESRB: T (Teen) Street Date: August 25, 2009*
DISSIDIA FINAL FANTASY
does what no other FINAL FANTASY title has done before, bringing together an all-star cast to give players a chance to see
their favorite FINAL FANTASY characters engage in high-intensity battles. Experience this renowned franchise, which has shipped
over 85 million units worldwide, in a brand new light with this dramatic 3-D action game. Soar through expansive environments
and participate in gripping combat, all while enjoying RPG-based character development that adds a rich layer of depth to
the story behind the clashing forces. The battle between good and evil begins – What will you fight for?
FINAL
FANTASY XIII Developer: Square Enix Co., Ltd. Publisher: Square Enix, Inc. Platform: PLAYSTATION
3 computer entertainment system/ Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft Genre: RPG ESRB:
Not Yet Rated Ship Date: 2010
Square Enix proudly presents FINAL FANTASY XIII, the latest installment in the
world-renowned FINAL FANTASY series. To celebrate the 13th numbered release in the series, Square Enix has undertaken a colossal
project involving the development of various content for multiple platforms. FABULA NOVA CRYSTALLIS , defined in Latin as
"the new tale of the crystal," is made up of several different titles based on variations of the FINAL FANTASY XIII
universe. While each title in the project features different characters, different worlds and different stories, all are ultimately
based on and expand upon a common mythos.
In FINAL FANTASY XIII, players will embark on a journey through the cityworld
of Cocoon and the outerworld of Pulse, encountering and fighting alongside a diverse group of allies. Execute powerful attacks
with weapons and magic, and summon the enigmatic Eidolons with an evolved Active Time Battle system. Experience seamless transitions
between real-time gameplay and in-game cinematics. Do you have the courage to face your destiny?
FINAL
FANTASY CRYSTAL CHRONICLES: THE CRYSTAL BEARERS Developer: Square Enix Co., Ltd. Publisher: Square
Enix, Inc. Platform: Wii Genre: Action-Adventure ESRB: Not Yet Rated Ship Date: TBA
FINAL FANTASY
CRYSTAL CHRONICLES: THE CRYSTAL BEARERS provides a fresh take on the FINAL FANTASY CRYSTAL CHRONICLES series as it combines
the storytelling depth, expansive world and graphical quality of FINAL FANTASY with motion-driven, real-time action gameplay.
In this world, realistic gameplay and fantastical art direction are brought together for a truly unique experience for Wii
users around the globe.
FRONT MISSION EVOLVED Developer: Double Helix Games Publisher:
Square Enix, Inc. Platforms: PLAYSTATION 3/Xbox 360/Windows PC Genre: Third-Person Shooter ESRB: Not Yet Rated Ship Date: TBA
From the creative minds of Square Enix and Double Helix Games, FRONT MISSION EVOLVED brings the
classic FRONT MISSION franchise into an action-packed third-person shooter that gives players full control of a massive humanoid
war machine—the wanzer. Players will battle through intense combat situations as they explore an immersive world in
both the single player campaign and online multiplayer.
KINGDOM HEARTS 358/2 Days Developer:
Square Enix Co., Ltd./h.a.n.d. Publisher: Square Enix, Inc. Platform: Nintendo DS Genre: Action-RPG ESRB:
RP (Rating Pending) Ship Date: Fall 2009
Uncover the events that took place during the year Sora was asleep
regaining his lost memories. KINGDOM HEARTS 358/2 Days revolves around Roxas, the "other" hero from KINGDOM HEARTS
II, and his days as a member of Organization XIII. Follow Roxas and the rest of Organization XIII across the various Disney
Worlds, and discover the connection between him, Sora and the mysterious 14th member, and the reasons behind his eventual
departure from the organization. KINGDOM HEARTS 358/2 Days also features a multiplayer mode for the first time, allowing players
to control their favorite Organization XIII members!
NIER Developer: cavia, Inc. Publisher: Square Enix, Inc. Platforms: PLAYSTATION 3/ Xbox 360 Genre: Action-Adventure ESRB: Not Yet Rated Ship Date: 2010
Nothing is as it seems in Square Enix's latest action adventure game, set in a crumbling world
plagued by disease and dark, unrecognizable creatures. Players assume the role of the unyielding protagonist, NIER, resolute
in his quest to discover a cure for his daughter, who is infected with the Black Scrawl virus. With powerful allies and a
mysterious book, NIER encounters things that will confound even the mightiest of warriors.
ORDER OF
WAR Developer: Wargaming.net Publisher: Square Enix, Inc. Platform: Windows PC Genre: Real-Time
Strategy ESRB: Not Yet Rated Ship Date: Fall 2009
Square Enix teams up with strategy game specialist
Wargaming.net to present ORDER OF WAR, a brand-new IP set for a simultaneous release across multiple territories. Developed
exclusively for Windows PC, the game features massive-scale battles brought to life with a cinematic intensity never seen
before in a WWII strategy game. Players will take command of an entire army including ground troops, artillery, tank divisions
and aircraft in all-out strategic assaults. The single-player mode can be played out in two campaigns – American versus
German forces on the western front and German versus Russian on the eastern front. Missions will be based on key historic
events and operations from 1944.
SUPREME COMMANDER 2 Developer: Gas Powered Games Publisher: Square Enix, Inc. Platforms: Xbox 360/Windows PC Genre: Real-Time Strategy ESRB: Not Yet Rated Ship date: 2010
Experience brutal battles on a massive scale! In SUPREME COMMANDER 2, players will wage war by
creating enormous customizable armies and experimental war machines that can change the balance of power at any given moment.
Take the role of one of the three enigmatic commanders, each representing a unique faction with a rich story that brings a
new level of emotional connection to the RTS genre, or fight the battle online. Where do your loyalties lie?
Downloadable Titles
FINAL FANTASY IV: THE AFTER YEARS Developer: Square Enix Co., Ltd. Publisher: Square Enix, Inc. Platform: Wii Genre: RPG ESRB: E (Everyone) Launch Date: June 1, 2009
A true sequel to the classic Super NES title, FINAL FANTASY IV: THE AFTER YEARS is
an episodic game coming exclusively to Nintendo's WiiWare service June 1, 2009. With both single and multiplayer modes, Wii
users will now be able to explore the world of FINAL FANTASY IV with up to three of their friends and coordinate commands
into a single attack. Unravel a mystery told through the intertwining stories of a familiar cast of characters, and complete
the FINAL FANTASY IV experience with this latest installment in the franchise.
FINAL FANTASY CRYSTAL
CHRONICLES: My Life as a Darklord Developer: Square Enix Co., Ltd. Publisher: Square Enix, Inc. Platform: Wii Genre: Real-Time Strategy ESRB: E10+ (Everyone 10 and older) Launch Date: 2009
The
latest installment in the FINAL FANTASY CRYSTAL CHRONICLES franchise for Nintendo's WiiWare service, FINAL FANTASY CRYSTAL
CHRONICLES: My Life as a Darklord turns the tables on players by challenging them to take on the role of the villain. As the
newly appointed Darklord with a mission to take over the world, players must strategically place monsters and traps inside
their tower to ward off invading adventurers. With this follow-up to the kingdom-building simulation FINAL FANTASY CRYSTAL
CHRONICLES: My Life as a King , Wii users can now enjoy the FINAL FANTASY CRYSTAL CHRONICLES world from an entirely new point
of view!
Submitted By: E. Thomas ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
In the years leading up the release of the
Nintendo Wii the company had faced many hardships in the console market. Although their popular GameBoy franchise
had continued to flourish their console, the Nintendo GameCube, had struggled to find a place in a market dominated by Sony.
Just a few years earlier the Nintendo DS had been revealed before a skeptical E3 audience. However,
the machine would soon prove itself as one of the greatest gaming devices in history. And it would set the stage for coming
Nintendo Revolution.
E3 2006 was the scene of a major revolution. This was the year both the Wii and the PS3 would
be revealed to the World. In all my years attending the show I had never seen anything quite like this. The Wii dominated
the show. It was the main attraction. Lines stretched far around the arena. Some people waited all day just to get a glimpse
of this new revolutionary hardware.
Come with us now as we relive the excitement. You will see exclusive footage
of this historic event, giving you a glimpse of the show you will see nowhere else.
As always all video is provided
by our Expert Videographer Harold Schossman. All footage was taken by Mr Shossman and cut using his professional editing facility.
We hope you enjoy this trip back into our collective E3 Memories.
Submitted By: Harold Schossman Text By: E. Thomas ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Aliens
vs. Predator, Alpha Protocol, Bayonetta and Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Winter Games lead the SEGA charge as E3 returns
to its former glory
SAN FRANCISCO (May 26, 2009) – SEGA® of America, Inc. today announced
their roster of titles to be presented at the 2009 Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3 2009). SEGA will feature numerous titles
across six different platforms, including legendary icons and dazzling new stars, as the company continues to develop both
original and high-profile licensed properties on the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, the
Wii™ system from Nintendo, PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system, Windows PC, and the Nintendo DS™.
SEGA will showcase their games at booth #2001 in the South Hall of the Los Angeles Convention Center.
Aliens
vs. Predator™ (Xbox 360, PLAYSTATION 3 system, Windows PC) – Releases early 2010 The next-gen
version of this benchmark multiplayer First-Person-Shooter franchise is coming with SEGA’s new Aliens vs. Predator game.
From the developer of the series’ first title comes this next big event, with three unique species fighting for supremacy
on the battlefield. Play as Predator, Marine and Alien in three radically different single-player experiences that intertwine
to create a thrilling story. Jump into cinematic non-stop multiplayer action with a rollercoaster-ride of explosive firepower,
horror, stealth and gory fang and claw combat.
Alpha Protocol™ (Xbox 360, PLAYSTATION 3 system,
Windows PC) – Releases October 2009 Enter the world of international espionage in Obsidian Entertainment’s
blockbuster new modern-day spy-RPG. Assuming the role of Michael Thorton, players must use their strength, skills and smarts
to survive the rigors and dangers of being an international spy. Alpha Protocol takes players to locations around the world
and arms them with a full arsenal of weapons and gadgets with which to complete any task at hand. The game also features fully
customizable character attributes and a unique dialog system that tracks players’ responses in the game, dynamically
changing missions and alliances as they progress through the game’s storyline.
BAYONETTA™
(Xbox 360, PLAYSTATION 3 system) – Releases late 2009 Developed by the creative minds that recently
brought gamers the critically acclaimed MadWorld™ on Wii; BAYONETTA from PlatinumGames is set to invite gamers into
a world full of adventure, mystery and a dash of sexiness. Players assume the role of the seductive Bayonetta and use a myriad
of weapons and combat skills to dispatch her angelic enemies. This epic action-adventure title will to set a new standard
in the genre.
Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Winter Games™ (Wii, Nintendo DS) – Releases
October 2009 Mario and Sonic are hitting the slopes with their friends in head-to-head competition for international
glory and gold in celebration of the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games. Featuring a full roster of characters from both
the Mario and Sonic worlds along with innovative Wii and DS control schemes including the use of the Wii Balance Board™
that allow unparalleled control of competing characters, the excitement of Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Winter Games is
ready to set the slopes on fire this fall!
Planet 51™ (Xbox 360, PLAYSTATION 3 system, Wii, Nintendo
DS) – Releases Fall 2009 This fall the official video game for Ilion Studio’s and Sony Pictures
new animated feature takes audiences to Planet 51 to witness an alien invasion of the human kind. Developed by Pyro Studios
the game is set on an alien planet visited by a bumbling U.S. astronaut. Planet 51 The Game gives players the chance to drive
through and explore the amazing world of Planet 51 whilst helping our hero find his way back to his spaceship!
The
Conduit™ (Wii) – Releases June 23rd 2009 Enter the world of alien conspiracy and government
cover-ups in The Conduit. Developed by High Voltage Software exclusively for Wii, The Conduit pushes the graphical capabilities
of the Wii to the very edge. The Conduit also features 12 player multiplayer competition with an assortment of game modes.
The Conduit supports fully customizable controls so players can optimize their gaming experience and is one of the first Wii
titles to support Wii Speak™.
Vancouver 2010™ - The Official Video Game of the Olympic
Winter Games – (Xbox 360, PLAYSTATION 3 system, Windwos PC) – Releases January 2010 SEGA is
heating up the slopes with international competition for gold in Vancouver 2010™ - The Official Video Game of the Olympic
Winter Games. Featuring a multitude of winter sports events, real-life Olympic venues and online multiplayer competition,
everyone has the chance to bring home the gold this winter.
Submitted By: E. Thomas ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
E3 MEMORIES VOLUME 2: UP-CLOSE
AND PERSONAL WITH TOMB RAIDER MODEL JILL DE JONG!
Our
Expert Videographer Harold Schossman gets up close and personal with everyones favorite Tomb Raider Model Jill De Jong! Many
beautiful women have played Lara Croft over the years but it seems that Jill De Jong is clearly the fan favorite. Please enjoy
this outstanding footage of one of the hottest women ever to wear mantle of Lara Croft. Its yet another reason why we think
the E3 Expo is the real greatest show on Earth!
PLEASE NOTE: This Video is available in both HD and Standard Definition.
Submitted By: Harold Schossman Text
By: E. Thomas ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Electronic
Game Show Returns to Expo Bancomer Santa Fe
New EGS Business Conference Added in August
Mexico
City - May 26, 2009 - After a wildly successful 2008 show, Electronic Game Show will return to Expo Bancomer Santa
Fe in Mexico City from Oct. 23 to 25, 2009.
Electronic Game Show 2009 will be the eighth year for Latin America's
largest videogame event. In addition to the three-day show in October, this
will be the first year for EGS Business, to be held Aug. 26-27. The new business-oriented event is designed to provide publishers and retailers with a conference tailor-made for their business
needs.
"The tremendous growth of the Latin American videogame market really necessitated the creation
of an event just for retailers and publishers," said Jorge Lizarraga,
CEO of the show-organizer company Oelli. "With access to both Electronic Game Show and EGS
Business, the Latin American industry will have the networking opportunities and tools it needs to continue pushing into new frontiers."
Key companies including Microsoft, EA, Ubisoft,
Konami, Activision and THQ have already signed on as exhibitors at this year's Electronic
Game Show.
"EGS has been instrumental in the growth of the Mexican videogames industry," said
Erick Baca, Xbox and SDA Marketing Lead. "Microsoft has been a participant
of the event since the beginning and we have seen EGS evolve according to the needs of the industry allowing us to reach our business goals and at the same time increase the awareness
of the industry in the market"
2008 marked the first year Electronic Game Show was held at Expo Bancomer
Santa Fe, located in Mexico City's most important business district. The move
to the new location, prompted by rapid expansion in the Latin American videogame industry, allowed for a larger exhibition floor than previous years, as well as expanded activities.
More than 26,000
consumers and journalists in attendance last year had the opportunity to explore a number of high-profile pre-release titles including Gears of War 2, Little Big Planet, Star Wars: The Clone Wars and Pro Evolution Soccer
2009.
Electronic
Game Show has become one of the largest and most influential events in the digital-entertainment industry. EGS is now the largest videogame event in Latin America. Consumers and journalists at EGS see the
newest and best in videogames, consumer electronics, digital entertainment
and more.
Submitted By: E. Thomas ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
This year marks my 10th Anniversary with the E3 Expo. So many years, so many incredible memories. This week the staff of DigThatBox.com shares their favorite moments from
the E3 Expo. You'll quickly see why we consider it the real greatest show on earth!
Submitted By: E. Thomas ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
This month our featured subject is the infamous Xbox Kid. (AKA, 360kid, Ecksbawks Kid) This infamous mug first appears in
the 2008 GameStop Holiday catalog. Its the face that launched a thousand 'shoops.' In this multi-part exhibit see how this one innocent catalog image spawned literally 100s of photoshop parodies.
The evolution of this image is a great example of the true genius that can sometimes be found in the far
corners of internet subculture. Please enjoy Part Two of our special gallery exhibit.
Submitted By: J. Castle ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
VIRGIN
MEGASTORE GOING OUT OF BUSINESS SALE UPDATE:
40% TO 60% OFF THE ENTIRE STORE: THIS WEEKEND ONLY
The Hollywood
Virgin Megastore has reduced prices by an addition 10%! The deal is good for this weekend only. Hit the link and see a complete
list of hardware and games.
Submitted By: E. Thomas ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Submitted By: E. Thomas ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Special Ticket Discount for Video Games
Live at the Greek Theater!
Special Ticket Discount!
Get
2 tickets for the price of 1! Offer valid from May 18th through May 29th. Click here for details!
Video
Games Live is a groundbreaking live event celebrating the music of video games created by Tommy Tallarico and Jack Wall. Experience
a full orchestra and choir accompanied by synchronized video, lighting, special effects, crowd interactivity & live action!
Plus, before the live show there will be live game competitions, a costume contest, surprise guests, game demos, prizes and
more!
Submitted By: E. Thomas ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Every year Video Game Fans await the unveiling of E3
Expo Merchandise with great anticipation. Well the wait is over! Your first look at the hottest new expo merch is now online.
Here's a quick peak at what you can expect. As always Official E3 Expo Merchandise is supplied by eCompanyStuff.com. I have
purchased several items from the official E3 Expo Store every year of the event. I kid you not, 1/3rd of my wardrobe comes from the official E3 Expo Store. But putting my personal obsession aside, this merchandise is of the highest quality. The people behind the official store
(eCompanyStuff.com) are truly committed to offering quality products that look great and are extremly stylish. A bit
of a warning though, expo merchandise sells out FAST! Seriously if you see something you like buy it ASAP! It may be gone
by the second day of the show. I've seen it happen many times...
Here's our first look at some of
the best items from the Official Store.
Submitted By: E. Thomas ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
DYNASTY
WARRIORS®6: EMPIRES COMING TO NORTH AMERICA
Become a lord, a noble officer or lethal invader. Create
your own warrior and control the fate of Ancient China in KOEI's latest action opus.
Burlingame, CA --
May 18, 2009 -- KOEI, recognized worldwide as the premier brand of strategy and action games, today announced that
DYNASTY WARRIORS®6: Empires for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft
and PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system will be available at North American retailers beginning June 23, 2009.
Gamers can pre-order DYNASTY WARRIORS 6: Empires
now at: Amazon.com, GameFly and GameStop. About DYNASTY WARRIORS 6: EMPIRES
Designed for the legions of Dynasty Warriors fans, DYNASTY WARRIORS 6: Empires is game that
brings together the best aspects of the action and strategy genres. In this latest edition, players can experience Ancient
China's greatest and most glorious war as an all-powerful lord or as an officer.
As a lord, gamers must think strategically. By deciding when to attack, when to resist invasion, or when to initiate
policies, a lord can expand their power and influence. An easy-to-learn "card collecting" system lets players enact
policies that will increase their empire's strength, improve the abilities of their forces, and more. The cards that a player
receives will depend on the attributes of the officers and their army.
Players can also pledge their allegiance to a kingdom to become an officer. As an officer, players can suggest policies
in the kingdom's war council, complete missions for rewards, or even turn against their ruler should relations sour.
Most eagerly awaited by fans is a game mode that allows players
to create their own warrior. DYNASTY WARRIORS 6: Empires features an extensive character editing system with
options to customize a warrior's gender, build, skin tone, facial features, voice, clothing, weapon and more.
Whomever players choose to be, they can now use mountain ledges and waterways
to infiltrate enemy bases and launch surprise attacks on supply depots to change the flow of battle.
DYNASTY WARRIORS 6: Empires is developed by Omega Force and is
for 1 to 2 players (offline). This game is rated "T" (TEEN - Alcohol Reference, Violence) by the ESRB. For more
information, visit www.koei.com.
Submitted By: E. Thomas ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Great news! The floor plans for the 2009 E3 Expo have been revealed! Now you can get an early sneak peak at biggest show in gaming history! The 2009 Show appears to be the
largest and most robust show in recent memory. Exhibitors have used every square inch of the Los Angeles Convention Center.
After seeing this we are even more excited for the upcoming mega event! E3 2009 is sure to be the biggest event in gaming
history!
Submitted By: E. Thomas ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MORE TARNELL MADNESS!!! GTA: San Andreas Wing Walking and Tower Jump with No Parachute!
Watch
in amazement as Tarnell risks his life while standing on the wing of a flying airplane!
No cheats or editing tricks
were used in the production of this video.
Starring: Tarnell and CJ. (AKA Jim & EL)
Submitted By: James Arden ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Almost 10 years after the release of the Sega Dreamcast the machine
has returned from the grave! A mysterious stash of brand new Dreamcast systems has been discovered. No one truly knows the
origin of these new machines. Some claim they are leftovers from a top secret Sega warehouse. Others claim the consoles
are actually being produced right now using parts from the Treamcast system and leftover Dreamcast repair parts.
Several online retailers are offering the machine for a meager $99. In today's economy that's a fantastic deal. Software
can easily be found online and at a reasonable price. If you never owned a Sega Dreamcast in your life now is your chance.
Ask any hardcore gamer and they will tell you that the DC is one of the finest consoles every made. Try one for yourself and
see why this little machine deserves its lofty reputation.
Submitted By: J. Castle ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Search for the Next Live-Action Duke Nukem Expands
Three-City Tour Evolves Into Massive Online Hunt
Hermosa Beach, Calif. - May 13 2009 - Got a little Duke in ya'? Well, we want to see it! Starting
today Deep Silver, Inc. and Apogee Software, LLC announced that due to popular demand, their search for the next live-action
Duke Nukem actor has evolved from a three-city tour into a massive online audition open to anyone willing to take on the challenge.
Fans can do just about whatever they want to demonstrate why they should be the next Duke Nukem. Their performance
will be judged by a panel of Duke Experts, including some of Duke's creators. The Experts will combine all entries from all
over the United States and will then narrow it down to a lucky few. The judges will then make their decision and the winner
will be announced.
The winner will get to travel around the world representing Deep Silver and Apogee Software,
LLC as the new "official" Duke Nukem...and they'll get paid to do it! They will be the new face of the the Duke
Nukem Trilogy and get to interact with the world like no other iconic videogame character ever has.
"We are
opening the floodgates on the search for the next live-action Duke Nukem. Before we were reaching out to the fans with a three-city
nationwide search, but due to the high demand we have chosen to expand our search to allow every Duke fan a chance to submit
their entry, said Chad McNeil, marketing manager for Deep Silver, Inc. "We want to see your best Duke Nukem, so get ready
to kick ass and chew some bubblegum because this is going to be one of the craziest promotions the videogame industry has
seen for a long time!"
For those who cannot upload their auditions online, but still wish to participate
in the Search for Duke will be allowed to submit their entries by mail on a DVD, VHS tape or video file on USB drive (not
returnable) or burned to a CD-R.
Deep Silver and Apogee are calling on all Duke fans to step up and compete
to be The Next Duke Nukem. If you think that you have what it takes, or know someone who does, head on over to www.dukeisback.com for more information, as well as contest rules.
The Duke Nukem Trilogy is comprised of three episodes:
Critical Mass™, Chain Reaction™, and Proving Grounds™, and will be released sequentially beginning in 2009
for Nintendo DS™ and PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system. More information is available at Apogee's recently
relaunched site, www.apogeesoftware.com
Submitted By: E. Thomas ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The rumor mill is running wild with speculation. Industry sources claim that Sony is ready to
unveil a major PSP hardware revision. It been called PSP2, PSP:GO, and the PSP 4000. But does it really exist? And where and
when will Sony announce this new product? Let's find out....
Submitted By: E. Thomas ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SONY
ANNOUNCES LIMITED EDITION FINAL FANTASY DISSIDIA PSP BUNDLE!
"Great news for all of you Final Fantasy fans out there! Today, we announced the availability of a new DISSIDIA: FINAL FANTASY PSP Entertainment Pack . A
GameStop exclusive, this limited edition bundle is the ultimate portable entertainment experience for Final Fantasy and PSP fans alike."
The entertainment pack includes:
“Mystic Silver” PSP-3000 system
DISSIDIA FINAL FANTASY game
FINAL FANTASY VII Advent Children,”
on UMD™
2GB Memory Stick PRO Duo™
"Available for $199.99 (MSRP) starting August 25 at GameStop locations in the U.S, this incredible value is only available for a limited time so get them quick! From Rock Band to Hannah Montana, there are PSP entertainment packs that cater to everyone in the family."
Submitted By: E. Thomas ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
This month our featured subject is the infamous Xbox Kid. (AKA, 360kid, Ecksbawks Kid) This infamous mug first appears in the 2008
GameStop Holiday catalog. Its the face that launched a thousand 'shoops.' In this multi-part exhibit see how this one innocent catalog image spawned literally 100s of photoshop parodies. The evolution
of this image is a great example of the true genius that can sometimes be found in the far corners of internet
subculture. Please enjoy part one of our special gallery exhibit.
Submitted By: J. Castle ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
In co-operation with the American Red Cross Blood Services Region, Southern
California, the ESA has organized a blood drive scheduled to take place on-site at E3 Expo on June 4 from 10:00am - 4:00pm.
Appointments will be required to donate and you can sign up online atwww.givelife.org and enter E3 Expo as the sponsor code.
Members
of the DigThatBox.com staff will be on hand to cover this extremely important blood drive. We even plan to give blood at the
event. I have seen first hand just how important it is to give blood. The Red Cross always needs fresh donations. They
never have enough and they always need more. One day, God forbid, it could be you or someone you love who needs a life saving
blood transfusion. Your dontation will save lives. Please give and encourage others to give also.
Submitted By: Elliott Thomas ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"For 15 years Little Mac has regretted losing the World Circuit Title to King
Hippo. Now he's throwing a welcome-home-party in the ring, and he's serving up some punch."
The classic
game Nintendo game Punch-Out returns! The game features a host of all new characters and several old favorites.
Grab your Wii-mote and come out swinging!
Punch-Out!! is exclusive to the Nintendo Wii. It arrives in stores on
5/18/2009.
Submitted By: Elliott Thomas ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Premier Trade Show for the Entertainment Software Industry Puts Spotlight on Charity
Washington, DC – May 6, 2009 – The Entertainment Software Association (ESA) today announced several charitable
programs scheduled to take place on-site at the Los Angeles Convention Center (LACC) during this year’s Electronic Entertainment
Expo (E3 Expo) trade show on June 2-4 that give the gaming industry the opportunity to reciprocate goodwill to the Los Angeles
area and offer support to the community.
"I'm proud
we can give back to the Los Angeles-based community that has welcomed us for so many years. We felt that this would be a perfect
way to let our E3 Expo attendees become personally involved in charitable efforts, and allow them to make a difference,"
said Michael D. Gallagher, president and CEO of the Entertainment Software Association, the trade association that represents
the U.S. computer and video game publishers and owns the E3 Expo.
The ESA has partnered with the nonprofit military support organization "Pro vs. GI Joe." The organization
sets up real-time video game competitions between professional athletes and celebrities and military personnel stationed all
over the world, via the Internet and in person, as a means of support in a fun, interactive way. At this year’s E3 Expo,
Pro vs. GI Joe will have several stations set up within their military tent, enabling attendees of the Expo to "throw
down" a personalized video challenge to the troops via their "GI Joe Throw" program. These videos
will be uploaded to the organization’s Web site for troops around the world to accept their challenge. The organization
is also planning to hold one Pro vs. GI Joe video game competition per day between a pro and/or celebrity and local military
personnel. In addition, Pro vs. GI Joe will also unveil their exclusive Military Online Gaming (MOG) site.
"E3 Expo is the perfect platform for Pro vs. GI Joe to connect with the gaming
community in a truly fun and interactive way," said Greg Zinone, co-founder and president of Pro vs. GI Joe. "We
are thrilled to be part of the Expo to showcase that our organization is about more than just playing video games; it's about
the connection we are making through the games, something the troops absolutely love. We are honored to show the gaming community
that through Pro vs. GI Joe, they now have a way to support those troops by simply doing what they already do – play
video games."
The ESA is also inviting all computer
and video game enthusiasts the opportunity to create and submit an entry in the E3 Expo 2009 T-shirt Contest. The
winning design will be unveiled on June 2, the opening day of the E3 Expo. The submission deadline date is May 14. Submissions
will be viewable on the E3 Expo Flicker page, http://www.flickr.com/photos/E3_Expo. The official T-shirt will be available for purchase at E3 Expo and www.E3Expo.com. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to The Midnight Mission, a Los
Angeles-based organization that provides multiple layers of services for the local area homeless with an emphasis on developing
self-sufficiency. Entrants should send an email with an attached JPG file of their design no bigger than 5MB to esa@theESA.com with the subject line "E3 T-Shirt Contest." Please visit www.E3Expo.com for additional details and official rules.
Finally, in coordination with the American Red Cross Blood Services Region, Southern California, the ESA has organized
a blood drive scheduled to take place on-site at E3 Expo on June 4 from 10:00am - 4:00pm. Appointments will be required to
donate and you can sign up online at www.givelife.org and enter E3 Expo as the sponsor code.
Submitted By: Elliott Thomas ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Be sure to check out the lastest updates in our E3 Expo 2009 mega section
-Charles Phoenix Disney Land Tour of Downtown Los Angeles:
"Well
known Los Angeles celebrity Charles Phoenix takes you on a tour of historic downtown Los Angeles. Along the way he points
out many odd and unusual similarities between the design of Downtown LA and the layout of Disney Land."
"Looking for a unique place to eat in Downton LA? What about a noodle house thats open late? Or a family restaruant
with Disney Land style Animatronics. We've got you covered."
Submitted By: Elliott Thomas ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
National Institute on Media and the Family (NIMF) is looking to see if there's a problem with video game use. We encourage VGVN members
to let them know what you think!
As a video game player, please share your feedback
and participate in their online poll.
Submitted By: E. Thomas ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Retroware TV reviews the Star Wars Lightsaber Stylus 3 Pack made by BD&A. Although these highly detailed little stylii don't light up, they are amazingly cool. Obi-Wan, Darth Vader and Yoda lightsabers
are included.
Submitted By: E. Thomas ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Keep Writing Gov. Schwarzenegger to Stop His
Appeal to Supreme Court
He's Back and Despite Two Courts Terminating His Law, He
Is Still Considering Going to the Supreme Court.
Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger is
still considering filing an appeal to the Supreme Court to bring California's Anti-Video Game Bill, AB1179, back from the
dead. This is despite all your letters and the fact that a Federal District Court and a Federal Circuit Court declared this
law unconstitutional due to 1st Amendment violations. The 9th Circuit Court of Appeals also noted that the primary
responsibility for protecting minors from potentially harmful influences lies with parents.
If you and other Californians
continue to speak up on behalf of video games, we can help bring this hypocritical legislative assault on video games to an
end. The LA Times criticized the Governor in an editorial arguing, "Having made a career off fantasy violence, Gov. Arnold
Schwarzenegger is an odd advocate for the regulation of violent video games. After all, his face (and, sometimes, his voice)
helps to sell a number of electronic kill-fests."
To date, federal courts have already
required the Governor to pay almost $400,000 in taxpayer dollars to the ESA to cover its legal fees for contesting this video
game law. He should remain focused on the real problems facing the state, instead of wasting much needed money, his valuable
time, and limited state resources on this unnecessary fight.
As gamers, parents, voters
and taxpayers, we need to stop him.
Write a letter in your own words, and tell Governor Schwarzenegger that California does not need to do the work of
the ESRB. Instead, he should focus on educating parents about parental controls and the ESRB — and leave video games
alone!
Submitted By: E.
Thomas ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Submit your best T-shirt
design for a chance to win an interview with the ESA!
"This is your chance to be part of E3 Expo 2009! Design and create a T-shirt that you think describes what E3 Expo 2009 is all about!"
The ESA and the E3 Expo are giving you the chance to express your creative genius! Hit the link for details, rules and submissions guidlines.
Submitted By: Elliott Thomas ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STAR WARS LIGHT SABER STYLUS THAT ACTUALLY
LIGHTS UP!!
"The force is strong in
this one."
Here are two completely amazing Star Wars lightsaber stylii. With a simple twist of
the handle the sabers actually light up! We recently discovered these little wonders at our local Toys R Us store. You get
both sabers for a price of $15. That may seem like a lot but they are both well worth cost.
The sabers are
well constructed and solid. You get one red Darth Vader saber and one green Yoda saber. Collectors will be happy to know that
details are sharp and paint application are precise. And for the most part, both sabers are movie accurate. (within the limitations
you would expect for this sort of product.)
The oversized stylus is comfortable to hold. The actual handle of
the saber extends well beyond your grip. The light mechanism is activated by twisting the handle. The lights are bright and
colors are rich. Although in our video the red saber appears a tad brighter.
This product is made by BD&A and you can find these sabers at your local Toys R Us.
Submitted By: Elliott Thomas ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
