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Monday, May 31, 2010
5000
Arcade Tokens! - 5000 Custom Made Arcade Tokens for DigThatBox.com - Our E3 2010 Give-away!! Un-Boxing Video! To celebrate
the 2010 E3 Expo we here at DigThatBox.com have created our own custom made arcade token! We will be giving these tokens away to lucky visitors to the show.
And if you can't make it to the show don't worry, we will also be giving away 500 tokens to our on-line readers. Keep watching
this space for more information! And as always, thank you for your support.
Submitted By: E. Thomas
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Friday, May 28, 2010
TECMO KOEI FEELS THE RAGE
WITH FIST OF THE NORTH STARTM! Face-pounding brutal beat ‘em up officially named and dated.
Hertfordshire,
UK- May 28th – TECMO KOEI EUROPE Ltd proudly reveal that the full name for its forthcoming Manga classic brawler
is Fist of the North Star: Ken’s Rage.
Featuring some of the most spectacularly brutal combat seen on next
gen consoles, Fist of the North Star: Ken’s Rage will be unleashed on an unsuspecting public in Autumn 2010.
Set on a ravaged Earth struggling to survive a nuclear holocaust, pitiful survivors band together in communities and villages,
trying to live on what little resources they have left. In the wastelands beyond vicious gangs prey on them for their resources,
or sometimes just for fun. A mysterious martial artist named Kenshiro, a man with seven scars on his chest and the chosen
successor of the legendary assassin's art Hokuto Shinken (????, The Divine Fist of the North Star) has sworn to protect the
weak and innocent from the malicious gangs that roam the scorched planet.
“Fist of the North Star: Ken’s
Rage not only pays homage to the brutal beat ‘em ups we all grew up loving, but it also tells the story of Ken’s
quest in a world of chaos”, says Will Curley, VP of Sales and Marketing, “joined by a cast of familiar Hokuto
characters, and featuring destructive post-apocalyptic wastelands, Fist of the North Star: Ken’s Rage is the true successor
to a much loved gaming genre. This is the reinvention of the beat ‘em up”
Fist of the North Star: Ken’s
Rage is released for the PlayStation 3® game console and Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system from Microsoft.
Submitted By: E. Thomas
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Thursday, May 27, 2010
FINAL FANTASY: THE 4 HEROES
OF LIGHT Square Enix announces new
FINAL FANTASY title for the Nintendo DS
London (27th May 2010) – Square Enix Ltd.,
the publisher of SQUARE ENIX® interactive entertainment products in Europe and other PAL territories, today announces
FINAL FANTASY®: THE 4 HEROES OF LIGHT™, for the Nintendo DS system will be released in Autumn 2010.
FINAL
FANTASY: THE 4 HEROES OF LIGHT is a brand new FINAL FANTASY game for the Nintendo DS boasting beautiful picture book visuals
and an easy to control battle system that will appeal to both old and new fans of the series. Designed with the concept of
a traditional RPG brought up-to-date with the best of today’s technology, the game goes back to the basics and origins
of the FINAL FANTASY series, with a classic story of four young heroes embarking on an unforgettable adventure; a tale of
dragons, kings, princesses and witches.
Innovation and tradition are seamlessly blended with a classic turn-based
Battle system with players able to set their own battle commands designed to perfectly match the user-friendly Nintendo DS
Touch Screen controls. Players can join their friends’ adventure with up to four players able to share the fun and conquer
dungeons together. While the unique new job change “Crown System” allows players to freely switch the character’s
class simply by changing the hat each character wears. There are over 20 jobs to choose from including the traditional Black
Mage, White Mage, Ranger and many more.
Larry Sparks, Vice President Brands PAL Region of Square Enix Ltd. comments,
“The FINAL FANTASY series has a rich history of offering unforgettable adventures and exciting new experiences. FINAL
FANTASY: THE 4 HEROES OF LIGHT continues this famous tradition, with an adventure that boasts incredible ease of play and
a gorgeous art style that should prove to be extremely popular with fans.”
For more information about FINAL
FANTASY: THE 4 HEROES OF LIGHT please visit the official website at www.ff4heroes.comStory:
In the small kingdom
of Horne, Brandt awakes on the morning of his fourteenth birthday.
Today is the day he becomes an adult, and the
custom of the realm says that he must go to the castle to present himself to the king.
Yet when he arrives at the
castle he finds the kind distraught and the youngest princess missing, abducted by the Witch of the North. With no one else
to turn to, the king makes a shocking request: will Brandt save the princess?
And thus Brandt’s adventure
begins…
Eventually he is joined by three other brave young souls. Together they will experience a journey
full of joyous meetings and sad partings.
Though at first they don’t always see eye-to-eye, these four Heroes
of Light will build bonds of trust and affection so strong that, in the end, they may even save the world.
This
is the tale of their legendary fantasy.
Features:
• A Brand-New FINAL
FANTASY For Nintendo DS
Experience an original story set in an all-new world created by the team behind the
Nintendo DS versions of FINAL FANTASY III and FINAL FANTASY IV.
• Beautiful Picture-Book Visuals
Akihiko Yoshida (FINAL FANTASY III DS, FINAL FANTASY XII) provides world-class art direction, lending the game’s cast
and environments a charming picture-book style.
• User-Friendly Controls
A simple Touchscreen
interface offers easy access to the game’s extensive arsenal of physical, magical and summoning abilities, meaning that
players can forget about the controls and focus on the enemy.
• Near Limitless Customisation
Thanks to the game’s Crown System, characters can now switch their class at the drop of a hat or, more accurately,
the change of a hat. Simply by changing the crown a character is wearing, players can assign them different abilities, and
with over 20 crowns to discover (including Black Mage, White Mage and Ranger crowns), the strategic options are practically
limitless.
• Share the Fun with Friends!
Using DS Wireless Play, up to four friends
can team up to tackle challenging dungeons. Apart from being a lot of fun, multiplayer mode allows players to collect Battle
Points which can be exchanged for rare items, and these can then be used in single-player mode.
About Square
Enix Ltd.
Square Enix Ltd., a part of Square Enix Europe business unit, is a London-based wholly-owned subsidiary
of Square Enix Holdings Co., Ltd., one of the most influential providers of digital entertainment content in the world. Square
Enix Ltd. publishes and distributes entertainment content from the Square Enix Group including Square Enix, Eidos and Taito
in Europe and other PAL territories. Square Enix Ltd. also has a global network of leading development studios such as IO
Interactive, Crystal Dynamics and Eidos Montréal. The Square Enix Group boasts a valuable portfolio of intellectual
property including: FINAL FANTASY, which has sold over 96 million units worldwide, DRAGON QUEST® which has sold over 53
million units worldwide and TOMB RAIDER® which has sold over 35 million units worldwide, together with other well established
products.
More information on Square Enix Ltd. can be found on the Internet at http://www.square-enix.com
Submitted By: E. Thomas
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Wednesday, May 26, 2010
HYPERKIN LAUNCHES NEW WEB SITE PROVIDING RESELL PARTNERS WITH SIMPLIFIED PRODUCT RESOURCE PORTAL New Site Goes Live in Time to Coincide with E3 and Launch of RetroN 3 Game System ROSEMEAD, CA (MAY, 2010) – Hyperkin, a rapidly growing developer of video
game accessories, has announced the launch of its new web site that includes a dedicated portal designed to simplify the product
ordering process for all its resell partners. The new site (www.hyperkin.com) provides easy navigation and immediate access to Hyperkin’s entire
catalog of video game peripherals. Hyperkin’s new web
site, which includes the company’s new slogan “Live Well. Play Well.” has launched in time for the
video game industries annual 2010 E3 trade event in Los Angeles June 15-17 and follows the recent announcement of the RetroN
3 that consolidates Nintendo™, Super Nintendo™ and SEGA™ Genesis together in a single wireless console. “Hyperkin’s mission is to provide the video game industry and consumers
with a product line that offers new and exciting ideas, sturdy and dependable product construction, attractive packaging and
price points that are reasonable to the end-user and profitable for each partner within the supply channel,” stated
Steven Mar, Hyperkin’s Marketing Director. “The new web site is the next step in our company’s rapidly developing
presence in the industry.” Notable Features of the New Web Site Include:
· Simple Navigation · Access to Hyperkin’s Entire Product Catalog · A Dedicated Web Portal
for Resellers to Place Orders Any Time ·
Same Day Order Fulfillment ·
Drop shipping to Individual Locations ·
OEM Manufacturing ·
Personalized Service Every Step of the Way About Hyperkin:
Since its inception in 2009, Hyperkin has been steadily growing
as a reliable and innovative developer and distributor of cost-effective video game peripherals. The company’s philosophy
is simple: make great products at affordable prices. Hyperkin is constantly searching for new product ideas, emerging technologies
and innovative ways to enhance the video game experience. Hyperkin believes that its most important asset is its business
partners and is dedicated to developing long and successful relationships with each individual client and each individual
consumer. The company’s corporate office is located in Rosemead, CA. For more information, please visit: www.hyperkin.com.
Submitted By: E. Thomas
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Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Sony Computer Entertainment
Asia To Launch Shatter In Asia-Pacific Region Sidhe's
Award Winning Brick-Breaking Game, Official Shatter Soundtrack, and Dynamic Theme Coming Soon to Hong Kong, Singapore, Thailand,
Taiwan, Indonesia, South Korea and Malaysia
WELLINGTON, New Zealand – May 25, 2010 -
Sidhe, New Zealand's largest game production studio, today announced that its award winning brick-breaking game Shatter™
will be published by Sony Computer Entertainment Asia (SCE Asia) across the Asia-Pacific region. The game will be available
for download in Hong Kong, Singapore, Thailand, Taiwan, Indonesia, South Korea and Malaysia via PlayStation®Store beginning
May 26th. In the weeks following the release of the game, SCE Asia will release the official Shatter Soundtrack and then the
Dynamic Theme which recently became available in North America.
“Together with Sony Computer Entertainment
first-party publishing Shatter will be able to reach the greatest number of people in the local markets across the Asia-Pacific
region," said Mario Wynands, Managing Director of Sidhe. "Seeing Shatter continue to grow almost a year after our
original announcement is very rewarding, and a testament to the global appeal of the game."
Shatter™
on PlayStation®Network
Shatter will remind players of classic brick-breaking games, but with twists that
make it modern and unique including:
• Innovative controls, physics effects, power-ups, special attacks, and
boss battles which combine to provide an experience that is always interactive
• Standard, Boss Rush and Bonus game
modes enhanced with leaderboards and trophies
• Vibrant 3D style presented across 10 distinct worlds in 4xAA 60fps
HD
• A fully scored soundtrack featuring more than 90 minutes of original music
For more information
on Shatter, visit: www.shattergame.comShatter™ the Official Soundtrack
The Shatter soundtrack features 14 original tracks and has won multiple awards including Giant Bomb Best Original Soundtrack
2009, and the PSNstore.com Best Soundtrack 2009. It’s also available digitally from BandCamp (http://sidhe.bandcamp.com/) and iTunes (http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/shatter-official-videogame/id345743185) as well as on a physical CD from CDBaby (http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/module).
About Sidhe
Founded in 1997, Sidhe is
an award-winning developer of console, handheld and PC games. The largest game production studio in New Zealand, Sidhe has
a proven track record of creating high-quality, mass-market, licensed and original titles for a worldwide audience. The studio
has produced more than 20 high-profile titles including the award winning original titles GripShift® and Shatter®,
Speed Racer The Videogame, as well as multiple games based on the NRL Rugby League franchise. For more information on Sidhe,
please visit: www.sidhe.co.nzCopyright © 2010 Prodigy Design Limited. Shatter and Sidhe
are trademarks or registered trademarks of Prodigy Design Limited. "PlayStation" is a registered trademark of Sony
Computer Entertainment Inc. All rights reserved.
Submitted By: E. Thomas
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Monday, May 24, 2010
SEGA announces WESTERN
release of Phantasy Star Portable 2 The
Phantasy Star Universe Saga Continues With This Exciting Sequel Exclusively for the PSP System
SAN
FRANCISCO & LONDON (May 21, 2010) – SEGA® of America, Inc. and SEGA® Europe Ltd. today announced
that Phantasy Star™ Portable 2, the sci-fi role-playing game exclusively for the PSP® (PlayStation®Portable)
system is coming to North America and Europe. Explore the universe of SEGA’s critically acclaimed and best selling RPG
franchise in this second installment of the Phantasy Star™ portable series. The game returns to its roots by offering
an online multiplayer component in addition to its robust single-player action adventure. Now gamers can meet other players,
strike up alliances, and embark on a huge variety of online quests in Phantasy Star™ Portable 2 anywhere, anytime.
“Phantasy Star Portable 2 offers two complete RPG experiences,” said Sean Ratcliffe, Vice President of
Marketing for SEGA of America, Inc. “The compelling single-player action adventure and the newly added expansive online
multiplayer mode will surely satisfy RPG fans and fans of the Phantasy Star series.”
Phantasy Star Portable
2 takes place three years after the exciting Phantasy Star Universe saga. With the great menace of the Seed now defeated,
the people of the Gurhal System are confronted with dwindling resources. Returning the game to its online roots, Phantasy
Star Portable 2 connects players online via Ad-Hoc and Infrastructure mode allowing gamers and fans to play with their friends
anywhere via the internet for up to 4 players. In addition to the online capabilities, Phantasy Star Portable 2 offers a new
in-depth storyline, enhanced combat system, new weapons and character customization options that combine to form one of the
most extensive RPG ever created for the PSP system.
Phantasy Star™ Portable 2 will be available in fall 2010
exclusively for the PSP system.
Submitted By: E. Thomas
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Friday, May 21, 2010
PopCap Games offers 13
games in the "Complete Mac Pack" for a reduced price on PopCap.com 13 Mac games available now in a single pack for $49.95, including hit titles Plants vs. Zombies, Zuma's Revenge,
Peggle and Bejeweled 2
PopCap.com, 21rst of May. PopCap Games, provider of fun games
for everyone, is happy to announce that its full portfolio of Mac games is now available for a reduced price of $49.95 on
PopCap.com. For a limited time only, all Mac users can purchase a broad range of 13 PopCap titles such as Plants vs. Zombies,
Zuma’s Revenge, Peggle, Bejeweled 2, Chuzzle, Bookworm and much more ! A good occasion to discover or re-discover some
of the world’s most popular and entertaining video games !
To take advantage of this time-limited promo,
just go there and start playing : http://www.popcap.com/promos/completemac/
For more information on PopCap Games, please go to http://www.popcap.com
Submitted By: E. Thomas
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Thursday, May 20, 2010
METAL GEAR SOLID:
PEACE WALKER Creators come to London for two, special signing events as part of World tour Konami Digital Entertainment GmbH has announced
details of the UK leg of Hideo Kojima & Yoji Shinkawa’s promotional tour for the upcoming METAL GEAR SOLIID: PEACE
WALKER title for PSP™ (PLAYSTATION®PORTABLE).
METAL GEAR SOLID: PEACE WALKER picks up where METAL GEAR
SOLID®3: SNAKE EATER for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system leaves off as players take control of the
famed Naked Snake. Taking place in 1974, it features original game design, story and scenario by Mr. Kojima. Scheduled to
launch June 18th. 2010 in the UK, the game takes the series in an exciting new direction with its incredible visuals and its
unique new game system designed specifically with the PSP system in mind.
METAL GEAR SOLID: PEACE WALKER is on
both UMD and download formats, and Mr Kojima & art director Mr. Shinkawa will be attending two very special signing events
to celebrate its launch. On launch day itself, they will be signing exclusive inlays at HMV’s flagship store 360 Oxford
Street, London W1 in. They will be signing from 4pm to 6pm.
On June 19th, Mr. Kojima & Mr. Shinkawa will be
hosting a second signing at the UNIQLO store at 331 Oxford Street, London W1 from 11am to 1pm. He will joined by his long-term
Art Director Yoji Shinkawa, and they will be signing copies of the game or a limited edition postcard, in honour of UNIQLO’s
brand new, exclusive range of METAL GEAR SOLID: PEACE WALKER inspired T-shirts. UNIQLO will have the shirts on sale at the
event, and each shirt comes with a code that, when entered into the new game, will unlock the item within METAL GEAR SOLID
: PEACEWALKER.
METAL GEAR SOLID: PEACE WALKER will be released for PSP®
(PLAYSTATION®PORTABLE) on June 18th.
All copyrights
or trademarks are the property of their respective owners and are used under license.
Submitted By: E. Thomas
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Wednesday, May 19, 2010
TRAUMA TEAM, CRITICALLY-ACCLAIMED
MEDICAL DRAMA FOR Wii, NOW AVAILABLE IN STORES ACROSS NORTH AMERICA A medical drama you're a part of!
IRVINE, CALIFORNIA - MAY 18, 2010 - Atlus
U.S.A., Inc. today announced that Trauma Team™, the publisher's exciting new medical drama experience for Wii™,
is now available at retailers across North America with an affordable launch MSRP of $39.99. Releasing to critical acclaim
and strong positive word of mouth, Trauma Team offers gamers six different fields of medicine to master, putting Wii owners
inside a living, breathing hospital and thrusting them into fun, fast-paced narrative filled with suspense, raw intensity,
and drama.
"Trauma Team combines the best aspects of medical dramas and crime investigation TV shows with
satisfying gameplay that anyone can pick up and play," stated Aram Jabbari, Manager of Public Relations and Sales at
Atlus. "Whether it's the captivating narrative, the interesting cast of characters, the variety of gameplay modes, or
the ability to play with a friend, Trauma Team delivers exactly what Wii owners and fans of medical dramas are looking for
in a new game. And at the attractive price of just $39.99, it offers tremendous value as well."
Renowned gaming
site GameSpot.com gave Trauma Team an 8 out of 10, calling it "...fun, engaging, and rewarding." Prominent industry
magazines Game Informer and Nintendo Power also received the game warmly, scoring it 8 out of 10 as well.
Trauma
Team for Wii is now available in stores across North America with an MSRP of $39.99. For more info, visit the game's official
website: http://www.atlus.com/traumateamKey Features
- 6 Ways to Play Doctor - Step into the roles of 6 different doctors to see their
stories unfold and master their specialties in surgery, diagnosis, orthopedics, endoscopy, autopsy/investigation, and first
response.
- Dramatic, Dynamic Stories - Inside and outside
the hospital, you'll witness the personal and medical exploits that set the stage for their intense brand of medicine.
- 2-player Cooperative Play - Whether you need support in surgery, emergency first
response, orthopedics, or endoscopy, bring along another pair of hands and get the job done!
© 2009 ATLUS Trauma Team is a trademark of Atlus U.S.A., Inc. Wii is a trademark of Nintendo. © 2006 Nintendo.
Trauma Team has been rated "T" for Teen with Blood, Language, Suggestive Themes, Use of Tobacco, and Violence
by the ESRB.
Submitted By: E. Thomas
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Tuesday, May 18, 2010
HYPERKIN ANNOUNCES E3
2010 LAUNCH OF RETRONTM 3;
CONSOLIDATES NES, SNES AND GENESIS INTO
WIRELESS VIDEO GAME SYSTEM Tri-System
Delivers Retro Fun and Unique Design with 3 Platforms in One Console
ROSEMEAD, CALIF. (May, 2010)
– Hyperkin, a rapidly growing developer of video game accessories, has announced that it will launch the RetroN™
3 video game system at this year s E3 trade show June 15-17, 2010. The RetroN3 consolidates Nintendo™, Super Nintendo™
and SEGA™ Genesis together in a single wireless console that also includes two wireless controllers as well as two original
controller ports for each platform.
The design of the RetroN 3, which is completely unique and unlike any other
on the market, was developed through feedback and suggestions the company received from consumers. Based on Internet research
and interactive forums with gamers, Hyperkin designed the system with three top-loading cartridge slots arranged into a single
sleek platform. The RetroN 3 offers a cool, fun way to experience retro gaming at home.
“We designed the
RetroN 3 with one thing in mind – having fun!” stated Steven Mar, Hyperkin’s Marketing Director. “It’s
an amazing system that offers a blast from the past as well as a fun, exciting way to enjoy three of the best game systems
ever developed. The RetroN 3 offers something for everybody who loves video games.”
RetroN 3 Points
of Interest:
· 2 Original Controller Ports for Each Platform (6 Total)
· Includes
2 Wireless Controllers
· 3 Cartridge Ports for NES, SNES and SEGA Genesis
· S-Video or
Composite AV Inputs
· SRP: $69.99
· Available for testing at E3 Booth #523 South Hall
The launch of the RetroN 3 is the latest addition to Hyperkin’s growing offering of innovative, cost-effective
peripherals for the global video game market.
About Hyperkin
Since its inception in
2009, Hyperkin has been steadily growing as a reliable and innovative developer and distributor of cost-effective video game
peripherals. The company’s philosophy is simple: make great products at affordable prices. Hyperkin is constantly searching
for new product ideas, emerging technologies and innovative ways to enhance the video game experience. Hyperkin believes that
its most important asset is its business partners and is dedicated to developing long and successful relationships with each
individual client and each individual consumer. The company’s corporate office is located in Rosemead, CA. For more
information, please visit: www.hyperkin.com
Submitted By: E. Thomas
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Monday, May 17, 2010
Combat
Arms grows its Arsenal, which now has more than 200 guns, and shares the five most popular found in its Black Market
Going for the kill in first-person shooters is always fun – especially with a shiny new gun. Picking and choosing
from a long list of guns is one big reason more than three million registered Soldiers of Fortune have such a great time slugging
it out in Combat Arms, Nexon America’s popular multiplayer online first-person shooter. The
game just delivered its monthly timed-content release and passed a major milestone – offering more than 200 guns in
its deadly, fully-loaded Arsenal. That’s right, there are a
whopping 200 guns available for Combat Arms soldiers to select from when planning their next firefight. This number is more
than double the amount of guns offered in any of the game’s competitors. Players can take part in the fun
by checking out the newest gun added to the Arsenal, the M960, a bullpup-modeled submachine gun which features a helical-feed
magazine for a very large ammunition capacity. Nexon America also added a Combat Vest, offering greater speed and no defensive
penalty as well as a new Flame Bandit Mask, which features a fearsome flame emblem. To
celebrate this momentous occasion, Nexon America has released the five most popular guns available in its Black Market, where
players purchase weapons with NX, which is acquired via real money. Here are the guns and some lethal user statistics on each
gun. G36E
Valkyrie: This workhorse offers a high magnification scope with excellent accuracy, making it effective against entrenched
snipers while the strong firing rate and high stopping power make it potent in close combat scenarios. This popular weapon
has recorded 1.5 billion shots, resulting in more than 71 million kills in 9.4 million matches.
L96A1
Arctic Wolf: The most-used sniper rifle in Combat Arms offers a tantalizing opportunity – one hit
equals one kill. This deadly weapon has been fired more than 147 million times and soldiers have scored a lethal 44.5
million kills in 12.3 million matches. M107CQ SE: This .50 caliber Sniper Rifle offers nearly unlimited range and excellent accuracy so
if a sniper sees something he wants dead, nothing is going to stop him. With more than 36 million shots in 3.1 million
matches, the twin-magnification scopes on this rifle have delivered 12 million kills. M416 CQB:
Low recoil, excellent portability and a rapid rate of fire are why this weapon has been used in more than 11 million
matches and delivered 89 million kills in over 2.1 billion shots. This weapon allows soldiers to quickly move into
position and lay down sheets of fire on the enemy. P90 TR: When soldiers want to mow down foes with an unending
stream of lead, this weapon’s high rate of fire, massive magazine and easily controlled recoil all allowed for soldiers
to score 18 million kills out of 559 million shots in 2.9 million matches.
Players can head over to the Arsenal to see all 200 guns and the many other weapons available in Combat Arms.
For more Intel about Combat Arms, players can always enlist at Facebook and view the battlefields on YouTube.
Submitted By: E. Thomas
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Friday, May 14, 2010
KONAMI DIGITAL ENTERTAINMENT
ANNOUNCES CASTLEVANIA PUZZLE: ENCORE OF THE NIGHT First-Ever
Castlevania Puzzle-RPG Whips Its Way Onto the iPhone and iPod Touch EL SEGUNDO, Calif. - May 13, 2010 - Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc. today announced Castlevania
Puzzle: Encore of the Night. Tailored specifically for the iPhone™ and iPod® touch, the latest iteration of
the classic platformer game will now allow fans of the franchise to revisit the Transylvanian castle with new addicting puzzle-RPG
action on-the-go.
A first in the Castlevania series, Castlevania Puzzle: Encore of the Night
will employ a unique style of puzzle-RPG, allowing players to take on the role of Alucard, the son of Dracula. Players will
also have the option to play as or against characters directly from Castlevania: Symphony of the Night. Developed
exclusively for the iPhone and iPod touch, Castlevania Puzzle: Encore of the Night drops players inside the walls
of Dracula's castle challenging them to solve puzzles in order to provide weapons and spells to aid players in their quest.
Castlevania Puzzle: Encore of the Night will be available soon on the App Store for iPhone and iPod touch
or at www.itunes.com/appstore/.
For more information, including all-new screenshots please visit: www.konami.com/touch.
Submitted By: E. Thomas
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Thursday, May 13, 2010
A Message from The ECA:
Stand
Up for Free Speech and the First Amendment
For close to two decades, elected officials have tried to regulate which video games you can buy, rent and play.
Each time they passed a law, the federal courts ultimately stood with gamers and struck it down as unconstitutional.
This fall, the Supreme Court, has agreed to hear Schwarzenegger v. EMA. That means
later this year, or early next, the highest court in the land will decide if they agree with the precedent that's been set.
Over this summer, the Entertainment Consumers Association will be drafting
a brief to submit to the court, defending our rights. We're asking you to speak up and sign onto the Gamer
Petition and show your support for video games as portected speech. This is the single most important moment when it comes to our rights
to play, rent and purchase video games. There are no guarantees in how this case will be decided and the court disagreeing
with the lower court's decision could lead to new bills and laws restricting our access to our hobby across the country. This is your chance to make your voice heard before the highest court in the land.
Take part, speak up, and fight for your rights. Sign
the petition today. Thanks, Brett Schenker, Online Advocacy Manager Entertainment Consumers Association (ECA)
Submitted By: E. Thomas
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Wednesday, May 12, 2010
2K Games Announces Rapture
Metro Pack - Second Installment Of BioShock®2 Downloadable Content - Now
Available Adds
New Maps, Characters And Gameplay Mode Wednesday 12th May/...2K Games announced today the Rapture Metro Pack*,
the second installment of post-launch downloadable content for the critically acclaimed BioShock®2
is now available from both the Xbox® LIVE Marketplace for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft
for 800 Microsoft Points and from the PlayStation®Network for £7.99. All content will be arriving on Games for Windows
– LIVE Marketplace at a later date for 800 Microsoft Points. The latest downloadable package extends and enhances the
multiplayer experience by adding more glimpses into the award-winning world of Rapture. Future expansions into the world of
BioShock 2 are slated to arrive over the coming months and will expand upon the single player experience
of Rapture.
The Rapture Metro Pack* introduces six new maps that take place over areas
from the single player portion of BioShock 2. In addition, 2K Games has also released two separate
BioShock 2 multiplayer expansions. The first, which is available to download for free, is an all-new
game mode called Kill’em Kindly* - a new fast-paced experience where players must fight to
the death using nothing but golf clubs. The second, the Character Pack*, adds two new characters
to the multiplayer gameplay and is available for 160 Microsoft Points or £1.59.
Rapture Metro
Pack* (800 Microsoft Points on Xbox LIVE and £7.99 on PlayStation Network; coming soon to Games for Windows-LIVE
for 800 Microsoft Points)
• Six new maps
• Rank increase to level 50
• Rebirth
feature that will give players who have reached
Rank 50 the option to rank down to level 1 and receive
a
special mask
• Three new achievements/trophies
Kill’em
Kindly* (Free for download on Xbox LIVE and PlayStation Network; coming soon to Games for Windows-LIVE)
• All-new melee-based game mode where players fight to the death using golf clubs
Character
Pack* (160 Microsoft Points on Xbox LIVE and £1.59 on PlayStation Network, coming soon to Games for Windows-LIVE
for 160 Microsoft Points)
• Two new characters for use in multiplayer: Zigo the Fisherman and Blanche the
Actress
In the coming months, 2K Games will also publish downloadable content that extends the single player experience,
providing new insight into the world of Rapture. These packages will expand the narrative, and introduce new tools and challenges
that extend the lore and fiction of the failed utopia under the sea.
Bioshock 2’s
first downloadable package, Sinclair Solutions Tester Pack*, is currently available
for download from both the Xbox LIVE Marketplace for the Xbox 360 and Games for Windows-LIVE for 400 Microsoft Points, and
from the PlayStation Network for £3.99.
Submitted By: E. Thomas
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Tuesday, May 11, 2010
NEWS FROM THE VIDEO GAME VOTERS NETWORK:
NEW POLL ASKS "SHOULD VIDEO GAMES BE RESTRICTED?"
U.S. News & World Report wants to know what
America thinks about video game censorship.
As a gamer and a supporter of the Video Game Voters Network,
take a moment and tell them what you think. But please vote carefully -- the question is "Should Kids NOT Be Sold Violent
Video Games?" Take the online poll now, and leave a comment if you have time:
http://videogamevoters.org/USNewsPollU.S. News & World Report is covering this
issue because the U.S. Supreme Court has agreed to hear a case about California's new law banning the sale of certain video
games to minors.
This survey is the perfect opportunity to show that the overwhelming majority of Americans support
the free speech of game developers and players.
Momentum is already growing against the California law. Just recently,
the New York Times published an editorial opposing the law and arguing that games are protected by the First Amendment.
Do you agree?
Speak out now by taking the U.S. News & World Report survey, and if you have a moment,
leave a comment too:
http://videogamevoters.org/USNewsPollThanks, and don't forget to pass this survey along to all the
gamers you know.
-- Video Game Voters Network
Submitted By: E. Thomas
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Monday, May 10, 2010
Gameloft Sells 330 Million
Downloadable Games 3 games per second
sold throughout the world
Paris – Gameloft®, a leading publisher and developer
of downloadable video games, announces 330 million downloadable games sold since its founding. Today Gameloft reaps the
fruits of its investments in its capacity to create and distribute games, positioning itself as the leading publisher
in the digital and downloadable video game market for all platforms.
“The consumer’s experience has
always guided my choices. Players demand the best games for their platforms, at the right price,” said Michel Guillemot,
president and founder of Gameloft. “It’s this idea that Gameloft was founded upon. Our creation team, one
of the highest performing in the market, and our worldwide distribution, allow us to keep in step with all of the
world’s great technological advances, from the arrival of 3D on cell phones to the emergence of smartphones and
now tablets.”
Gameloft’s ambition is to satisfy all consumers with a varied portfolio that is of very
high quality. Gameloft’s catalog now numbers close to 300 titles in all existing genres and for all cultures.
This includes sports games like Real Football, action games like Hero of Sparta and N.O.V.A. Near Orbit Vanguard Alliance,
and adaptations of movies such as James Cameron’s Avatar. Thinking games like Brain Challenge or great intergenerational
classics such as Uno, Shrek and Blokus are also widely acclaimed.
Gameloft’s games are available in
over 80 countries and in 15 languages thanks to a powerful network of over 300 distributors around the world (telecom
operators, phone and console manufacturers and media partners).
In the long term, Gameloft will continue to
benefit from the rapid emergence of digital distribution of video games on mobile phones, smartphones, tablets and consoles
along with all major technological innovations brought to the market by companies such as Apple, Nintendo, Sony,
Samsung and Nokia. The company has thus positioned itself this year as one of the first publishers for Apple’s
App Store with 65 iPhone games launched since July 2008 and 15 games already available on the iPad.
Follow
Gameloft news at www.twitter.com/Gameloft, www.facebook.com/gameloft, www.youtube.com/Gameloft and discover all of our games at www.gameloft.com
Submitted By: E. Thomas
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Friday, May 7, 2010
EA TO DELIVER DYNAMIC
3D MONOPOLY GAMEPLAY EXPERIENCE WITH MONOPOLY STREETS MONOPOLY-Inspired Video Game to Help Celebrate 75th Anniversary of Hasbro's MONOPOLY Brand Guildford, UK. – May 7, 2010 –The EA
Play Label of Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ: ERTS) today announced it is developing MONOPOLY Streets for the Wii™, Xbox
360® videogame and entertainment system, and PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system.
For the first
time ever, players will experience MONOPOLY, one of the world’s favorite family game brands, as a fully dynamic, living,
3D world that continuously evolves with the video game action. Additionally, MONOPOLY Streets will feature online multiplayer
and unique downloadable content for Xbox360 and PlayStation 3 players around the world. Scheduled to launch in fall of 2010,
the experience will offer an assortment of features that add to the thrill of becoming a MONOPOLY real estate mogul. Hasbro’s
classic MONOPOLY will also be available on the Nintendo DS™ in conjunction with the release of MONOPOLY Streets.
In recognition of the MONOPOLY brand entertaining families around the globe for 75 years, MONOPOLY Streets will offer
players the ability to become completely immersed within a MONOPOLY-themed world, re-imagined to experience the game at street
level. Developing properties within high rent districts will produce lavish houses and hotels that appear within the world
and further substantiate its visual appeal, while developing in the less expensive areas provide more modest, but no less
interesting, establishments. The game will also feature player-owned headquarters that rise and fall along with the Player’s
fortunes – large and luxurious when winning, stunted and minuscule when losing. For purists, MONOPOLY Streets will offer
classic game board modes, as well.
MONOPOLY Streets will come loaded with an array of imaginative twists such as
the ability to establish “house rules” where players can save their own set of customized rules tailored to their
group of friends. In addition, players will be able to create and play as their own Wii Mii™ or Xbox 360 avatar, and
have the city populated by their friend’s Wii Mii or Xbox 360 avatars. Online play will also ratchet up the fun on Xbox
360 and PlayStation 3, allowing players to find and challenge other aspiring moguls while tracking ranking and progress on
local, national and world leaderboards. Additionally, the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 versions will feature an assortment of
downloadable content that may include a variety of items such as themed boards and tokens.
“We’re taking
Hasbro’s No. 1 family game brand and masterfully striking the balance of offering the classic MONOPOLY play experience
and adding a spectacular new visual treatment as we bring the classic board to life with players walking the streets of MONOPOLY,”
said Chip Lange, General Manager and Senior Vice President of EA’s Hasbro Division. “MONOPOLY Streets will bring
people together and connect families all over the world by offering online gameplay through their gaming consoles. We think
this unique, combined offering will bring families together around the TV this holiday season for a classic family gaming
tradition they’ll remember for years to come.”
In addition, EA will further extend its MONOPOLY franchise
with MONOPOLY City, currently in development for Pogo.com. At launch, players will be able to download the game from www.pogo.com for instant fun on the PC.
Submitted By: E. Thomas
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Thursday, May 6, 2010
ZENO CLASH ULTIMATE EDITIONTM IS NOW AVAILABLE ON Xbox LIVE Arcade! Own it today! Why? Because your Father-Mother said so!
IRVINE, CALIFORNIA - May
5, 2010 - Atlus U.S.A., Inc. today announced that the critically acclaimed, first-person melee action adventure brawler,
Zeno Clash Ultimate Edition™, is now available for your punching, kicking, and headbutting pleasure on Xbox LIVE®
Arcade for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft.
The vastly enhanced Zeno Clash
Ultimate Edition features new modes including all-new online and split-screen cooperative mode for the Tower and Pit Challenges,
along with new combat moves, new weapons, and a whole new Zeno Rush gameplay mode. Zeno Rush mode lets players compete against
themselves and each other (via online leaderboards) in trying to complete select scenarios from the single-player campaign
in the shortest times possible. All this added content, combined with a series of tweaks and improvements based on fan feedback,
deliver the definitive version of the critically acclaimed game.
Zeno Clash Ultimate Edition is now available on
Xbox LIVE® Arcade for 1200 Microsoft Points. Visit the official game website (www.zenoclash.com) for more information.
About Zeno Clash Ultimate Edition
In the land of Zenozoik, the city of Halstedom is ruled by a powerful clan, one which Ghat has betrayed by
committing a terrible sin. Now, Ghat's brothers and sisters are pursuing him and his companion Deadra through strange and
twisted lands, beyond the boundaries of the sane to the ends of the world. What was Ghat's crime and why did he commit it?
The bare-knuckled brawl to reach the truth has just begun.
Key Features
- Fascinating world of grotesque beauty-Equal parts breathtakingly beautiful and
utterly disturbing, prepare to be swallowed up in a surreal fantasy world powered by the Source engine. Explore lush environments
and confront bizarre animal-humanoid foes on your mission of discovery and redemption.
- Visceral first person fighting-Combat is up close, personal, and entirely satisfying. Start with a series of punches,
kicks, and grabs, follow up with a knee to the enemy's face, and hit him with a finishing move to send him flying yards away.
Learn new moves to mix it up. Guns and melee weapons offer additional power and tactical options.
- Ultimate edition additions-The already highly praised gameplay has received an overhaul that includes combat rebalancing,
interface enhancements, improved animations, new modes, and new gameplay content.
- New cooperative play modes-Enlist a friend to take on enemy waves in Tower Challenge, a special survival mode that
offers additional replayability beyond the single-player campaign. Play cooperatively online, or locally via split screen.
With leaderboards to rank you against your friends, the challenge never ends!
Zeno Clash Ultimate Edition has been rated "T" for Teen with Blood and Gore, Mild Suggestive Themes, and
Violence by the ESRB.
Submitted By: E. Thomas
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Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Rockstar Games Announces
'Outlaws To The End' Co-Op Mission Pack for Red Dead Redemption Free-to-download
co-op game play coming to Red Dead Redemption
New York, NY - May 5, 2010 - Rockstar Games,
a publishing label of Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. (NASDAQ: TTWO), is proud to announce the ‘Outlaws To The End’
Co-Op multiplayer Mission Pack for Red Dead Redemption. Available FREE this June simultaneously for Xbox LIVE® and PlayStation®
Network, this brand new co-op mode adds an entirely new dimension to Red Dead Redemption’s game play.
“Multiplayer
in Red Dead Redemption offers players a whole new way to encounter the massive open world we’ve created, but we felt
the experience would not be complete without co-op game play,” said Sam Houser, Founder of Rockstar Games. “With
these missions, we wanted to create new ways for players to share in the experience of engaging with this amazing landscape.”
One of three downloadable content packs, the ‘Outlaws To The End’ Co-Op Mission Pack features six all-new
multiplayer missions full of outlaws, epic gunfights, and revolution for 2-4 players. The ‘Outlaws to the End’
Co-Op Mission Pack offers additional multiplayer XP rewards and brand new Achievements and Trophies to unlock. These six explosive
and epic missions will play out across the game world, including:
“Walton’s Gold”
Walton’s Gang have taken control of a mining camp rich with gold. Fight through the camp and load your mine cart with
as much gold as you can carry and get out as fast as you can – Walton’s boys have rigged the place to blow.
“The River”
Ride a raft down river, taking out rebel encampments along the way until
you reach the rebel stronghold of Nosalida and a final epic battle for the town’s massive weapons caches. Watch out
for Gatling gun-equipped enemy rafts.
“Ammunition”
The Mexican Army has the town
of Tesoro Azul under siege. Storm the gates under heavy cannon, Gatling gun and sniper fire to destroy the Mexican artillery
placements.
Go to www.rockstargames.com/reddeadredemption for more information. Stay tuned for news about two additional downloadable
content updates for release later this summer.
Submitted By: E. Thomas
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Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Guitar Hero® 5 and Band HeroTM Keep Living Rooms
Rockin' with Killer New Additions to the Guitar Hero Music Library SANTA MONICA, Calif., May 4, 2010 - May rolls in and with it comes a new collection of shredable
track pack additions for Activision Publishing, Inc.'s (Nasdaq: ATVI) Guitar Hero®
5 and Band HeroTM. From "America's Greatest Rock and Roll Band" to
the hottest new alternative rock acts to hit the airwaves, fans can look forward to further expanding their Guitar Hero® music libraries and shredding this month with tracks by Foreigner, Lynyrd Skynyrd,
Steve Miller Band, Alpha Rev, Capra, Snow Patrol and Aerosmith.
Foreigner, Lynyrd Skynyrd and Steve Miller Band
will have Guitar Hero players rocking in the beginning of May with the Classic Rock 3 Track Pack. "Juke Box Hero,"
the third single off Foreigner's 1981 album, 4, will join Lynyrd Skynyrd's second hit single, "Sweet Home Alabama,"
and "Take the Money and Run" by Steve Miller Band. The Classic Rock 3 Track Pack will be available on the PlayStation®Store for PlayStation®3 computer
entertainment system starting May 11. It will also be available on Xbox LIVE®
Marketplace for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from
Microsoft and on WiiTM on May 6.
Gamers looking to add some alternative-pop
to their Guitar Hero library are in for a treat on May 11 with a three-song Alternative Pop Track Pack featuring Alpha Rev,
Capra and Snow Patrol. The track pack will contain "Face Down," off Alpha Rev's just released new album New Morning,
Capra's debut single, "Low Day" and "You're All I Have," the first single from Snow Patrol's fourth album,
Eyes Open.
Get ready to rock this way with legendary American rock n' roll band, Aerosmith, as they return to the
Guitar Hero stage with a three-song track pack featuring "Livin' On The Edge," "Love In An Elevator" and
"Rag Doll." Fans will be able to experience these classic tracks, playable as a full band for the first time, from
the GRAMMY® award winning band on May 18.
The Classic Rock 3,
Alternative Pop and Aerosmith track packs will be available on Xbox LIVE Marketplace for the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment
system from Microsoft for 440 Microsoft Points, on the PlayStation Store for the PlayStation 3 computer entertainment system
for $5.49 and for Wii for 550 Wii PointsTM. In addition, all songs in each
track pack will be released as downloadable singles for the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft for
160 Microsoft Points, PlayStation 3 system for $1.99 and Wii for 200 Wii Points each. In addition to the in-game music store
and the Xbox LIVE Marketplace for Xbox 360, Xbox 360 owners can expand their Guitar Hero music library using the Guitar Hero
VIP Pass Music Store, available exclusively on Xbox LIVE online entertainment network.
For more information about
Guitar Hero 5, Band Hero and their entire line-up of downloadable songs and disc imports, please visit www.guitarhero.com.
Submitted By: E. Thomas
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Monday, May 3, 2010
NEWS FROM THE ESA:
SUPREME COURT TO HEAR CASE ON FIRST AMENDMENT PROTECTION FOR VIDEO
GAMES
On April 26, the Supreme Court of the United States agreed to
review Video Software Dealers Association/Entertainment Software Association v. Schwarzenegger, which centers on the constitutionality
of a California law enacted in 2005 regulating the distribution of video games based on their content. Following a Ninth Circuit
Court of Appeals decision that the law was unconstitutional, the state of California appealed to the Supreme Court to overturn
the lower court's decision. "The courts have
ruled consistently that content-based regulation of computer and video games is unconstitutional," said Michael D. Gallagher,
president and CEO of the Entertainment Software Association. "We are hopeful that the Court will reject California's
invitation to break from these settled principles by treating depictions of violence, especially those in creative works,
as unprotected by the First Amendment."
The computer and video game industry currently operates under a self-regulated
ratings system. The Entertainment Software Rating Board provides parents and caregivers with the information they need to
make the right purchasing decisions for their families. California
is not the first state to attempt the passage of laws restricting video game sales based on their content. Twelve other cases
were brought before courts across the country, with each court finding these types of laws to be unconstitutional. The ESA argues that the protections afforded newspapers, books, films, music and
other forms of First Amendment protected speech also apply to computer and video games, and a large majority of the public
agrees. A recent KRC Research poll found that 78 percent believe video games to be a protected form of speech.
The public is asked to help defend computer and video games by joining the Video Game Voters Network (VGVN), a grassroots
coalition of over 200,000 voting-age gamers. Members of the VGVN are encouraged to ask their friends, families and fellow
gamers to join the coalition's effort to defend First Amendment protections for computer and video games. As the case moves
forward, VGVN members will receive the latest news, resources and opportunities to defend the First Amendment rights of computer
and video games. Supporters can log on to www.videogamevoters.org to become a member and voice their concerns about the case. You can also
connect with VGVN on Twitter and Facebook.
Submitted By: E. Thomas
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