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July 3, 2007
Dark Messiah: Elements heads for 360
Microsoft names Early to Windows Live
UBISOFT ANNOUNCES DARK MESSIAH OF
MIGHT AND MAGIC(TM): ELEMENTS FOR XBOX 360(TM)
SAN FRANCISCO – July 3, 2007– Today
Ubisoft, one of the world's largest video game publishers, announced that
it will launch Dark Messiah of Might and Magic(TM): Elements for the Xbox
360(TM) video game and entertainment system from Microsoft.
Powered by the award-winning Source®
engine created by Valve® for its Half-Life®2 video game, the game will
allow Xbox 360 gamers worldwide to experience the brutal combat, highly
detailed interactive environments and dark atmosphere that won the hearts
of thousands of PC players, while building and expanding the experience in
several areas. Players will have to use the environment as a weapon to
outsmart the most fiendish monsters.
Dark Messiah of Might and Magic:
Elements is being developed by Ubisoft's Annecy studio, supported by Valve
and Arkane Studios. Ubisoft Annecy has been critically acclaimed for the
innovative multiplayer modes in Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell® games.
About Dark Messiah of Might and Magic:
Elements: In Dark Messiah of Might and Magic: Elements, players will be
introduced to the dark and unforgiving world of Ashan, scarred by a bloody
history and threatened by the apocalyptic prophecy of the Dark Messiah.
The game will sport a refined experience
thanks to several improvements in gameplay, design and other technical
aspects. Players will embody the young hero Sareth and choose his
evolution path to acquire spells, skills and abilities that will set his
destiny.
Key Features of Dark Messiah of Might
and Magic: Elements for Xbox 360 include:
• More action, new challenges.
Experience Might and Magic® like never before, with refined game
mechanics carefully crafted for pad-controlled carnage, including a brand
new lock-on feature and tweaked level design and game statistics. Explore
three previously unreleased secret levels with new objectives, gameplay,
and rewards.
• Multiplayer remixed. New multiplayer
maps have been created exclusively for Xbox 360, while all other features
have been completely remastered for an optimal Xbox LIVE® experience,
allowing you to play with up to 10 players. Enlist with the Humans or the
Undead and choose to play as an archer, priestess, mage or knight. Make
use of powerful and unique skills and spells on the battlefield, including
powers such as meteor shower, berserk charge and rain of arrows.
• Cutting-edge technology. Discover
the power of the Source engine on Xbox 360, featuring jaw-dropping
environments, incredible graphics and top-notch physics. Immerse yourself
in a gritty first-person experience with complete body awareness,
realistic movements and physics rendering, making Dark Messiah of Might
and Magic: Elements the first action game to feature a complete
first-person combat system.
• Environmental mischief. Use your
environment as a weapon to outsmart the most fiendish monsters. From
bottomless pits to diabolical traps, players will find that that their
spells and weapons are not always the most effective solution to
dispatching their foes.
• Never-ending action. Challenge the
forces of evil across 12 chapters and master over 30 weapons and 12
devastating spells. Engage the enemy in intense melee combat with swords,
bows, staffs and daggers; summon magic powers or sneak in the shadows to
stalk depraved creatures. Show no mercy as you carve deep into the enemy's
flesh and use the environment as a weapon to outsmart the most fiendish
monsters.
• The Might and Magic universe's
darkest side. From bottomless pits to abandoned temples, dark catacombs
and swelled cities, explore the remotest recesses of Ashan, populated with
fearless Orcs, dreadful Undead, elusive Cyclops and many other creatures
that defy nature's creation. This is the darkest side of the legendary
Might and Magic universe, where the forces of evil are stronger and more
cunning than ever.
Dark Messiah of Might and Magic:
Elements will be released in Q1 2008. For more information, please visit
www.mightandmagic.com
About Ubisoft: Ubisoft is a leading
producer, publisher and distributor of interactive entertainment products
worldwide and has grown considerably through a strong and diversified
lineup of products and partnerships. Ubisoft has offices in 21 countries
and sales in more than 50 countries around the globe. It is committed to
delivering high-quality, cutting-edge video game titles to consumers.
Ubisoft generated sales of 680 million Euros for the 2006-07 fiscal year.
To learn more, please visit www.ubisoftgroup.com.
About Valve: Valve is an entertainment
software and technology company founded in 1996 and based in Bellevue,
Washington. The company's portfolio of entertainment properties includes
Half-Life®, Counter-Strike®, Day of Defeat®, and Team Fortress®.
Valve's catalog of products accounts for over 20 million retail units sold
worldwide, and over 80% of the PC online action market. In addition, Valve
is a developer of leading-edge technologies, such as the Source game
engine and Steam, a broadband platform for the delivery and management of
digital content.
About Arkane Studios: Arkane Studios is
an independent game development studio founded in Lyon, France in 1999
with a newly opened office in 2005 in Austin, Texas. The studio released
its first game worldwide, Arx Fatalis, in 2002. With its innovative magic
and items combination systems and gorgeous graphics, this critically
acclaimed first-person action RPG earned major awards, including a
nomination as "Rookie Studio of the Year" at the prestigious GDC
Awards Ceremony. In 2006, Arkane further innovated with Dark Messiah of
Might & Magic. Combining incredible environments and special effects
with a unique first-person combat system, Dark Messiah garnered the IGN
Reader's Choice for the Best PC Action Game of 2006. Today Arkane builds
on this expertise developing immersive first person experiences and
expanding to online and next gen console games. More information on
www.arkane-studios.com
© 2007 Ubisoft Entertainment. All
Rights Reserved. Dark Messiah Might and Magic, Might and Magic, Ubisoft,
Ubi.com and the Ubisoft logo are trademarks of Ubisoft Entertainment in
the U.S. and/or other countries. This product includes Source technology
copyright Valve Corporation 2007. Source, Valve, Counter-Strike, Team
Fortress, Day of Defeat and Half-Life are trademarks or registered
trademarks of Valve Corporation in the United States and/or other
countries. Microsoft, Xbox, Xbox 360, Xbox LIVE, and the Xbox logos are
trademarks of the Microsoft group of companies.
Welcoming Chris Early as General
Manager of Games for Windows - LIVE
Just one short week away from E3, we are
excited to announce that Chris Early, the studio manager for Microsoft
Casual Games and a driving force behind Xbox LIVE Arcade and MSN Games,
will be the new General Manager for Games for Windows – LIVE effective
July 9th. Bryan Trussel will replace Early leading the casual game
services.
In addition to expanding Microsoft’s
casual gaming audience and game experiences across multiple platforms,
Early has been a passionate advocate and driver of Games for Windows –
LIVE and the cross-platform gaming vision. Early made his mark in the
online services space as former chief operating officer and president of
GameSpy Industries, and previous to that was executive vice president of
Mplayer. Early’s team will continue to bridge the gap between Xbox LIVE
and Windows, add features and services appropriate to PC gamers, and help
developers integrate Games for Windows – LIVE into their games. He will
be bringing his extensive experience in PC gaming to the team and will
drive the product roadmap for Games for Windows – LIVE.
His experience in and passion for PC
multiplayer gaming will be invaluable as we continue to build and expand
the Games for Windows- LIVE service to appeal to the millions of Windows
gamers worldwide.
Stay tuned for more great news from
Microsoft at E3!
> July 2, 2007
Guild Wars expands Aug. 31
Garriot's Tabula Rosa detailed
Furu Furu Park opens on DS
Xbox 360 features E3 previews
Missile Command hits Xbox Live
Mission: Defend Planet Zardon with
Atari’s “Missile Command” for Xbox LIVE Arcade
Considered one of the great classic
video games from the Golden Age of Arcade Games, Atari’s “Missile
Command” comes to Xbox LIVE Arcade for Xbox 360 this Wednesday, July 4
at 9:00 a.m. GMT (2:00 a.m. Pacific).
While staying true to the original
arcade classic, the enhanced “Missile Command” for Xbox LIVE Arcade
has players acting as regional commander of three anti-missile batteries
defending six cities in their zone. As Planet Zardon is under attack by an
endless hail of interplanetary ballistic missiles from Krytol, players
must act fast to fend off the missiles and keep their cities intact.
Gliding across the sky, players complete levels by taking out all enemy
weaponry. At the end of a level, players can earn bonus points for the
more cities that remain and the fewer missiles that are used.
“Missile Command” will be available
worldwide for 400 Microsoft Points and is rated E for Everyone.
Game Features
Beautifully rendered 3D graphics and
updated music and sound effects Up to two players can play together
locally or over Xbox LIVE Earn up to 12 Achievements and 200 Gamerscore
points
More information is available at http://www.xbox.com/games/livearcade.
Microsoft Once Again Bringing E3 Home
to Xbox 360 Owners Around the Globe
For the second year running, fans around
the world thirsting for a sneak preview of the Xbox 360™ holiday games
and entertainment lineup can get together with friends to experience the
E3 Media & Business Summit (E3) — the biggest video game industry
event of the year — in high definition from the comfort of their own
homes.
From Tuesday, July 10, through Friday,
July 13, Microsoft Corp. is bringing E3 home to owners of the Xbox 360
video game and entertainment system through its second annual E3: Bringing
It Home, which offers downloads on Xbox LIVE® Marketplace of the hottest
content from the show.
Connect to the Xbox LIVE online
entertainment network and bring everyone together in the living room to
enjoy the E3 experience with E3: Bringing It Home.
Xbox 360 owners will be able to download
high-definition content direct from the show including the following:
· Microsoft’s E3 2007 press
conference — beginning at 8:30 p.m. PDT on Tuesday, July 10 — will be
available on Xbox LIVE Marketplace in high definition later in the week
· Video updates direct from the show
· A selection of game trailers, themes,
gamer pictures and demos will be available from the hottest E3 titles such
as these:
· “Ace Combat 6: Fires of Liberation”
(NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc.)
“Assassin’s Creed” (Ubisoft) ·
“BioShock” (2K)
· “Blue Dragon” (Microsoft Game
Studios)
· “Burnout Paradise” (Electronic
Arts Inc.)
· “CALL OF DUTY® 4: MODERN WARFARE™”
(Activision)
· “FIFA Soccer 08” (Electronic
Arts)
· “Guitar Hero III” (Activision/RedOctane)
· “Lost Odyssey™” (Microsoft Game
Studios)
· “Madden NFL 08” (Electronic Arts)
· “NCAA Football 08” (Electronic
Arts)
· “Need for Speed: ProStreet”
(Electronic Arts)
· “Project Gotham Racing® 4”
(Microsoft Game Studios)
· “The Simpsons Game” (Electronic
Arts)
· “Tiger Woods PGA Tour 08”
(Electronic Arts)
· “WWE® SmackDown® vs. Raw® 2008”
(THQ)
In addition to all this content, there
will be many surprises, so fans should stay tuned to the Xbox LIVE
calendar (http://www.xbox.com/en-us/live/marketplace/ticker.htm) for
updates about what E3: Bringing It Home content will be available during
the show.
A High Energy Arcade Collection Heads
to the Wii as Majesco Entertainment Announces 'Furu Furu Park'
EDISON, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Retro
classics and quirky stylized mini-games hit the Wii(TM) home video game
system this fall as Majesco Entertainment Company (NASDAQ: COOL - News),
an innovative provider of video games and digital entertainment products
for the mass market, today announced Furu Furu Park. Developed by Taito
and 505 Games, Furu Furu Park is a collection of 30 arcade-style games
that take advantage of the Wii Remote(TM)'s range of motion to engage and
entertain players of all skill levels and ages.
"Furu Furu Park's inventive use of
the Wii Remote will have you spinning, shaking and rotating as you try to
master classic arcade titles and unique new gameplay scenarios only
possible on Nintendo's Wii system," said Ken Gold, vice president of
Marketing, Majesco. "Whether you're delivering sushi orders, punching
asteroids or cracking a safe, all of the Park games are easy to pick up
and play, and above all else, great casual fun."
Included among Furu Furu Park's 30
different mini-games are:
Arkanoid: an arcade classic pitting
paddle and ball against a wall of blocks; Pinch Hitter: step up to the
plate and take a few swings with the Wii Remote; Bubble Bobble: hold the
Wii Remote like an NES controller to burst all of the bubbles in this
retro arcade puzzler; Safe Cracker: Memorize the combination then enter
the code by tilting your Wii Remote left and right to crack the safe;
Sonic Blastman 20XX: Clutch your Wii Remote and punch at the screen to
destroy asteroids heading for earth; Super Karate: Execute offensive and
defensive maneuvers with your Wii Remote to defeat your opponent. Players
can also face off against a friend in three multiplayer modes: Free
Battle, Panel Attack and Love Challenge where players will have to compete
to win female affection.
Furu Furu Park will be available this
fall. For additional information, please visit
www.majescoentertainment.com.
About Majesco Entertainment Company
Headquartered in Edison, NJ, with an
international office based in Bristol, UK, Majesco Entertainment Company
(NASDAQ: COOL - News) is an innovative provider of video games and digital
entertainment products for the mass market, with a focus on publishing
video games for leading portable systems and the Wii(TM) console. Current
product line highlights include Cake Mania(TM) for the Nintendo DS(TM),
Cooking Mama: Cook Off for the Wii(TM) console and JAWS(TM) Unleashed.
More information about Majesco can be found online at
www.majescoentertainment.com.
Richard Garriott Presents…Tabula
Rosa
We thought we were alone. We felt secure
in our future. Little did we know that we would end up being plunged into
an intergalactic war that has been raging for millennia.
With every great story, there must be a
beginning. As with every great discovery, there must be a first. Our story
begins thousands of years in the distant past with the Eloh, an ancient
and highly advanced alien culture. The Eloh civilization chose to devote
their time and energy to peaceful pursuits of study and introspection.
Over thousands of years they finally realized the key to a powerful
science that unified all known theories of physics. With this knowledge
they developed Logos, through which they gained the mystical ability to
manipulate matter, energy, and force in unique and powerful ways.
In creating Tabula Rasa, I was
determined to break away from our roots in medieval fantasy and develop a
solid science fiction universe. We felt that we had created a compelling
alien race in the Eloh. What we needed was some kind of scientific
breakthrough that would become the defining moment in our story. And the
discovery of Logos powers was the scientific revelation that became that
pivotal discovery, both in the fiction and the game play for Tabula Rasa.
As the Eloh begin to use their knowledge of Logos to travel the universe,
they forge the beginnings of an intergalactic culture where they openly
share their knowledge with all the races they discover that are advanced
enough to understand it.
Many of the races they discovered,
however, were in their infancy and too primitive to share in the Eloh’s
knowledge. The Earth was one such planet. But the Eloh are an altruistic
people and wanted to someday return to these primitive planets. They left
seeds of knowledge for these races to discover, including the language of
the Logos so that one day, when these cultures were ready to understand, a
relationship could be established with them.
Other races that were advanced enough
for the Eloh to make contact with accepted the gifts of their knowledge
and their cultures thrived as a result of their interaction with the Eloh.
But not all worlds would be content to embrace the Eloh as their
benefactors. The Eloh had never encountered such a race; that was until
they traveled to the planet Thraxis.
One of the most important things to me
when creating a compelling enemy is making them well rounded and
believable and not just evil for evil’s sake. Since the Ultima series, I’ve
tried to be sure the antagonists in my games have logic behind their
behavior, a purpose to their dastardly deeds that they could internalize
to justify their actions.
We created the Thrax as a warlike,
xenophobic species, and when they encountered the Eloh, their logical
reaction, of course, would be a mixture of fear, anger, envy, and
distrust. But the Thrax had advanced technology and were highly
intelligent. They recognized an opportunity and learned as much as they
could from the Eloh, always with the intention of one day using the Eloh’s
gifts to their advantage. Ultimately, the Thrax turned on the Eloh,
catching them off guard and landing a devastating blow to the Eloh
culture. The Eloh’s understanding of Logos was superior, and they were
able to, in the end, overcome the Thrax and emerge victorious. But the
damage that had been done to the fundamental beliefs of the Eloh people
would ultimately lead to their downfall.
It is at this point in our story that
the rift that ultimately destroys the Eloh civilization is formed. On one
side, many Eloh felt that, although they might need to exercise more care
in the future, their encounter with the Thrax was atypical and their goal
should be to continue as before, sharing their knowledge with others for
the betterment of both those races and their own people. Another group of
Eloh, which eventually became known as the Neph, felt that the cost of
sharing the knowledge and advancements they had spent millions of years
achieving was far too great. They believed that less advanced cultures
were not worthy to bestow this knowledge upon, and instead, these races
should be given “guidance” from the Eloh to ensure that the Eloh
always retained their rightful place as a superior race. I like to compare
these differing philosophies to two contemporary belief systems to
illustrate their differences. The Eloh wanted peaceful co-existence and a
community of mutual sharing and growth for all races. On the other hand,
the Neph wanted to control the development of these “lesser” races so
that their culture would prosper and their superiority could never be
challenged.
As the schism grew wider and more
fractured, the Neph joined forces with the remaining Thrax, and with the
use of Thrax weapons and tactical knowledge, quickly overthrew the Eloh
home world destroying any Eloh that opposed them. The surviving Eloh fled
to the far reaches of the Universe, finding refuge and anonymity on many
of the worlds they had visited. Without the Eloh presence to stand in
their way, the Neph began aggressively implementing their plan for the
Universe. I do want to point out that the Neph, who even now, do not see
themselves as sinister, feel justified in their actions and, as they
subjugate more and more planets, they grow even more efficient and brutal
in their tactics.
Hundreds of years later, a small blue
planet that the Eloh had visited thousands of years prior began to make
rapid advancements in their civilization. They began broadcasting radio
waves, building large cities, testing nuclear devices, and launching
spacecraft into the cosmos. It was in this way that the Earth finally
captured the attention of the Bane. To clarify something, Bane is the term
used to describe all of the forces fighting under the Neph army and
includes the Thrax and many other races and genetically engineered
creatures that fight for the Neph. Once the Bane forces became aware of
Earth, they invaded the planet to acquire its resources, both natural and
biological, just as they had done so many times before on other worlds.
Their method was precise and swift, and in a mere 5 days, the Earth was
completely over run, and humans became firmly entrenched in a celestial
war that had already lasted for centuries.
But the Eloh had not forgotten the
fledgling races they had visited. They left knowledge and technology
behind that allowed a select group of humans, chosen for their ability to
learn and use the power of Logos, to escape. These refugees escaped to a
handful of alien worlds where they could then be trained to fight the
Bane. On these worlds they found allies, other sentient creatures fighting
for their survival against the ruthless Bane. And so, the Army of the
Allied Free Sentients was born. That is the story of Tabula Rasa. What
happens next is up to you. The future is yours to write. A blank slate.
Guild Wars: Eye of the North Readies
For August 31 Release
NCsoft and ArenaNet set $39.99 price for
first ever expansion of Guild Wars franchise
Bellevue, WA., July 02, 2007-NCsoft®
and ArenaNet® announced that Guild Wars: Eye of the North™, the first
ever expansion to the subscription-free Guild Wars® franchise of fantasy
online role-playing games, will be released to the public on August 31,
2007. The Guild Wars: Eye of the North expansion will be available for an
expected price of $39.99 in North America and 34.99 (Euros) in Europe, as
well as through the NCsoft store at PlayNC.com and in the Guild Wars
in-game store.
Guild Wars: Eye of the North will
continue the no subscription fee model pioneered by ArenaNet, and will
provide new content accessible to players who own both the expansion and
any one of the three previously released Guild Wars campaigns (Guild Wars,
Factions™, or Nightfall™).
The Guild Wars franchise has sold more
than 3.5 million units since the release of the original Guild Wars
campaign, in 2005, making it one of the most popular online role-playing
games of all time.
Guild Wars: Eye of the North follows up
on events told in the original Guild Wars campaign, and is set in
previously unexplored areas of the continent of Tyria. The expansion
contains a host of new features that will appeal directly to veteran Guild
Wars players, including 18 large, multi-level dungeons, 150 new skills
across all ten Guild Wars professions, ten new Heroes, 40 new armor sets,
and more items, weapons, and titles. Additionally, through the innovative
Hall of Monuments, Guild Wars: Eye of the North creates a path for players
to carry the legacy of their characters into the upcoming Guild Wars 2.
The Hall of Monuments will allow players to preserve their accomplishments
and titles from Guild Wars, Factions, and Nightfall, which can thenbe
claimed in Guild Wars 2.
"Guild Wars has one of the most
committed and loyal player bases I've ever seen, and Guild Wars: Eye of
the North is our way of delivering prized content to veteran players and
creating a link to the future of Guild Wars," said Jeff Strain,
co-founder of ArenaNet.
For more information on the Guild Wars
franchise, go to: www.GuildWars.com. The award-winning Guild Wars
campaigns can be purchased from retailers or downloaded from the PlayNC
store at secure.plaync.com/cgi-bin/Store.pl.
> June 27, 2007
Echelon unveils Black Power Red Earth
Shrapnel Games announces Scallywag
Ultimate Baseball hosting tournament
Majesco announces Blast Works for Wii
New GTA IV trailer debuts on Xbox Live
Echelon Unites Multiplayer Action
with Social Networking in Tactical FPS action combines with a persistent
virtual marketplace for an entirely new gaming experience
New York, NY- Jun 26, 2007 Echelon Software announces Black Power Red
Earth, a multiplayer-only first-person shooter that combines highly
stylized visuals and fast-moving tactical action with a persistent virtual
marketplace and social network. Co-designed by former US Special
Operations Forces members and private security contractors with
operational experience in 32 countries on four continents, including
Afghanistan and Iraq, BPRE captures the insane pace of high speed direct
action missions like no game ever before!
"Rather than build an elaborate 3D
world space, BPRE uses the same framework commonly found on the Web for
social networking. Players are already used to creating and managing
online identities on sites like Myspace and Orkut. They are also buying
and selling real and virtual products on sites like Ebay, iTunes and
Amazon. By using these familiar tools, BPRE keeps the learning curve as
flat as possible," says Jon Chang, president of Echelon. "Best
of all, unbinding these activities from the game executable gives players
access to the world of BPRE either from inside the game or from the
outside via any Web-enabled device. Persistence is the real world, anytime
the players want it."
Set on Mars in 2043, Players act as
mercenary soldiers executing contracts for warring corporations in a
variety of urban/industrial sprawls, using bleeding edge weapons in
hi-tech team based battles for virtual currency that can be used to
purchase new weapons, upgrade existing weapons, buy armor and tactical
enhancements to fine tune their in-game experience. As players rank up,
they will also be able to open their own mercenary franchises. These
franchises provide a base for recruiting other players into a clan, offer
in- game advantages for members and allow the owners to open their own
storefronts that compete against the game MSRPs and can generate
"cash" from new players of the game. "FPS games are 'pick
up and play' games that provide instant gratification with short, fast
rounds and specific limited goals," Chang continues. "In BPRE
we've extended that by rewarding players with in-game currency that can be
used to customize the experience and set up their own in-game enterprises.
Echelon has detached the social network and virtual marketplace from the
game itself, so that it can be accessed from any Web-enabled device!"
Black Powder Red Earth Features: Game
features include: Multiplayer-only, allowing up to 16 players to battle
online together Next-generation graphics powered by Unreal Engine 3 8
contract campaign plays out in a detailed near-future 3D environments Earn
"virt cash" to collect more than 100 parts and accessories
Customize weapons, browse for new items, and build a career in a familiar
Web interface in- game or from any Web browser at any time! Build a
franchise private military company (PMC) with other players or create a
competing store front to sell arms and gear to other players Association
with former PMC operatives ensures realistic game play About Echelon
Software
Echelon Software was formed in 2006 by
Jon Chang (CEO), Altay Murat (CTO), and Phil Smith (CCO). With over 35
years combined experience producing entertainment/edutainment applications
for clients ranging from Fortune 100 companies to Defense Contractors to
video game companies to HBO. Echelon's team has developed team structures
and methodologies that consistently produces and ship high quality product
time and time again. A large part of that has involved a philosophy of
creating tools for artists that allow them use tools they already know
rather than learn new ones every time a new feature is introduced.
Essentially give the artist as much control as possible so creativity and
productivity is not hampered by learning curves. This creates an
environment which allows for rapid iteration and rapid prototyping giving
us the perspective to finely tune every product we ship. With offices are
currently located in Astoria, NY, Black Powder | Red Earth is Echelon
Software's first original IP.
Descend Into The Darkened Depths
With Scallywag! New Dungeonbash Coming To Your PC From Shrapnel Games!
Hampstead, NC, 27 June 2007
Hone your blades and prepare for glory!
Shrapnel Games is pleased to announce that British developer Chronic
Reality has joined with Shrapnel to publish their upcoming game,
Scallywag: In the Lair of the Medusa, a single-player, action orientated
dungeonbash for Windows.
In Scallywag: In the Lair of the Medusa,
a mysterious evil has begun to plague the good citizens of Gosling valley.
Livestock is vanishing, people are cowering in their homes, and
telemarketers keep calling during the dinner hour. Even worse, the
valley's supply of mushrooms is suffering, and for the valley mushrooms
are life. Providing everything from shelter to sustenance, from magic to
medicine, the shroom supply must flow once more!
In the tradition of NetHack and Rogue,
players control a single character, Rapius the mighty farm laborer, in his
quest to defeat the forces of darkness and become the savior of Gosling
valley (and its shrooms!). Rapius, who begins his virtual career with
barely a rag to wear, must penetrate eighty levels of darkness, growing in
power with each denizen of the dark slain, each newly acquired trinket,
and every mushroom consumed, until at last he meets his final foe, the
dreaded Medusa!
Scallywag: In the Lair of the Medusa
provides players with a fascinating array of options to explore, making
every game a unique experience. Rapius will face dozens of monsters, each
with their own strengths and weaknesses, various environmental hazards,
and deadly boss encounters. Along the way he'll learn to craft items,
drink potions, eat magic mushrooms, smoke fungus, imbibe booze (from cheap
Gobbo ale to lip-smacking Moon River whiskey), and much more. Among other
things Rapius can become invisible, diseased, hungover, poisoned, and even
a werewolf (hopefully not all at once)!
Rapius must also master his lantern, his
source of illumination in the underworld. If the lantern is turned up
Rapius will be able to see (and be seen!) further into the void, allowing
him to make long range attacks on his foes. If the lantern is turned down,
Rapius can attempt to creep past danger, sidestepping beasties he's not
quite ready to tackle.
If the lantern is burning hot and
bright, oil is more quickly consumed than when the wick is low. While oil
flasks are scattered throughout the adventure, knowing when to flare and
when to soften the light is a key strategy to Scallywag: In the Lair of
the Medusa.
With eighty levels consisting of eight
worlds, dozens of monsters, countless numbers of items, diverse player
conditions, and a ton of surprises, all randomly generated before each
session, Scallywag: In the Lair of the Medusa provides endless
replayability. If players ever do reach a point that they think they've
seen everything the game has to offer thanks to RAGe, they haven't!
RAGe stands for Random Adventure Game
engine, and is included with Scallywag: In the Lair of the Medusa. RAGe
allows full modding capability without any programming experience.
Literally everything in the game can be altered with RAGe, allowing not
only whole new adventures for Rapius, but totally new games. Change the
graphics, items, magic, music, everything. All it takes is creativity and
time.
Scott Wakeling of Chronic Reality
reports, "Our primary goal with Scallywag was that gameplay would
always come before graphics. Given the choice between a fancy new visual
effect, or some fun new mutator or magic item, we would shoot for gameplay
every time! Looking at the game now, there is so much to be discovered and
enjoyed in Scallywag, it's just awesome. Effort really equals reward with
this title!
Our second main goal was that Scallywag
should be highly moddable without any programming skills. What we didn't
realize in those early days was how the decision would come to
dramatically affect the game's own development internally. It has always
been so fast and easy for us to add new content and behavior to Scallywag.
Many features have come and gone in the past, as removing something that
didn't work was just so easy thanks to the RAGe. What we've ended up with
is a really finely balanced game, there's just nothing we would want to
remove now!
We're hoping all our players are going
to get as much fun from playing this game as we got from making it!"
Scallywag: In the Lair of the Medusa is
currently undergoing beta testing, and no release date has been set. Stay
tuned to Shrapnel Games (www.shrapnelgames.com) for more information as it
is made available, and in the meantime be sure to check out our catalog of
award-winning titles. We also have available totally free games, now
featuring Conquest of Elysium II, forerunner to the famous Dominions
series of fantasy-strategy games.
ABOUT THE COMPANIES
Chronic Reality
Chronic Reality was founded in 2005 by a
mix of ex-industry veterans and amateur developers. Based in Cambridge,
United Kingdom, Chronic Reality builds games that are fun to play, highly
replayable, and highly moddable.
Shrapnel Games
Formed in 1999 by Tim Brooks as a
vehicle to publish the sequel to the hit wargame, 101st: The Airborne
Invasion of Normandy, Shrapnel Games soon took on a new life as publisher
of the finest niche gaming on the 'net. With numerous genres represented
by a bevy of critically acclaimed titles, Shrapnel Games has a little
something for everyone tired of the mundane world of mainstream gaming.
Majesco Entertainment Announces
'Blast Works' for the Wii Console
"Sticky" Shooter With Retro
Styling Features Multiple Editors For Maximum Creativity
EDISON, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--A
frenetic geometric battle is heading to the Wii(TM) home video game system
as Majesco Entertainment Company (NASDAQ: COOL - News), an innovative
provider of video games and digital entertainment products for the mass
market, today announced Blast Works: Build, Fuse & Destroy. Developed
by Budcat Creations and scheduled for a fall release, Blast Works is a
side-scrolling shooter that lets players craft the game to their liking by
building their own levels, ships and enemy ships. In addition, players can
"absorb" the pieces and weapons of destroyed enemy ships to
bolster their own defenses during battle.
"Gamers can literally build their
own shooter experience via Blast Works' easy-to-use, multiple in-game
editors," said Ken Gold, vice president of Marketing, Majesco.
"This exceptional customization combined with the unique
"stickiness" of enemy debris and bright geometric graphics
delivers a standout game that never plays the same way twice."
Across more than 15 different land, air
and sea missions, the goal of Blast Works is to destroy enemy ships while
continually growing your own into a massive craft by absorbing their
fragments. The larger a "fused ship" is, the easier it is to
protect from the growing onslaught of enemy firepower. Players can also
upgrade their ship in the Hangar by customizing weapons, propulsion
systems and armor. Creative types will further enjoy building a ship from
scratch with the Ship Editor and then testing it out in combat on a custom
level they've built with the Level Editor. To defend the Hangar, players
must use the Wii Remote(TM) like an anti-aircraft turret to shoot down
enemies attacking from all angles. Finally, the game's 2-player
cooperative mode lets players work together to blast enemies, fuse debris
to grow their ships and finish the mission as a team.
Blast Works: Build, Fuse & Destroy
will be available this fall. For additional information on the game,
please visit www.majescoentertainment.com.
About Majesco Entertainment Company
Headquartered in Edison, NJ, with an
international office based in Bristol, UK, Majesco Entertainment Company
(NASDAQ: COOL - News) is an innovative provider of video games and digital
entertainment products with a focus on publishing video games for leading
portable systems and the Wii(TM) console. Current product line highlights
include Cake Mania(TM) for the Nintendo DS(TM), Cooking Mama: Cook Off for
the Wii(TM) console and JAWS(TM) Unleashed. More information about Majesco
can be found online at www.majescoentertainment.com.
Grand Theft Auto IV: Looking For
That Special Someone in HD On Xbox LIVE Marketplace, Xbox.com, and
rockstargames.com/IV
On Thursday, June 28 at 10 am PST,
gamers will be able to download Rockstar Games’ Grand Theft Auto IV
trailer, “Looking For That Special Someone,” on Xbox.com and in high
definition on Xbox LIVE Marketplace and, of course, rockstargames.com/IV.
This will be the second trailer for the highly anticipated title slated to
release on October 16 in North America and October 19 in Europe on the
Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft. The first
trailer released in March, whetted the appetites of millions of gamers
worldwide with the first peek at the epic title from Rockstar Games. The
Grand Theft Auto IV trailer was one of the most downloaded trailers to
date on Xbox LIVE Marketplace.
To celebrate the release of the second
trailer, Xbox 360 gamers will be able to download exclusive Grand Theft
Auto IV theme and gamer pics from Xbox LIVE Marketplace.
Grand Theft Auto IV is the next chapter
of the award winning Grand Theft Auto franchise from Rockstar Games, and
will feature episodic content through Xbox LIVE exclusive to the Xbox 360.
Ultimate Baseball Online 2007
Hosts "Firecracker Invitational" Tournament
What's More Patriotic on July 4th Than
Beating Another Team in Virtual Baseball?
Diamond Bar, California -- Jun 26, 2007
-- Ultimate Baseball Online 2007 (UBO), the world's only massively
multiplayer online sports game (MMOSG) for baseball, today announced it is
hosting its first Firecracker Invitational Tournament, pitting the best
UBO teams from the East and the Western parts of the United States. The
Firecracker Invitational will start on Monday, July 2, 2007 and continue
till Wednesday, July 13, 2007. The three teams finishing first in the
Major, All-Star, and Elite divisions will receive automatic bids to the
Best of UBO 2007 Tournament.
The Best of UBO 2007 is a global event
open to UBO players worldwide. 64 teams consisting of five to nine players
will qualify during the year to compete in the tournament, which will run
from November 26 to December 21, 2007. Each round will be a best-of-three
series, and the championship round will be a best-of-five series. Members
of the winning team in the Best of UBO 2007 Tournament will split a $4,500
cash prize. The second place team will take home $2,250, and third place
will receive $1,125. Additional cash prizes will be paid to teams
finishing through eighth place.
Images are also available via download
at the MMPR ftp site About Ultimate Baseball Online 2007
UBO is a free-to-play massively
multiplayer online sports game (MMOSG) where baseball enthusiasts and
gamers compete in virtual stadiums. With stunning graphics and
surround-sound audio reactions from the crowd, participants control
customized characters for each position and compete together against other
UBO gamers from around the world. Players create their own avatar to bat,
pitch, field, run, and perform other baseball actions.
Participants can play individually, or
join a team and participate in a variety of competitive events. Gamers
create their own characters and build their skill level (player stats)
through successful play on the field against other real human players.
Unlike current video games that aim to simulate professional sports, UBO
delivers a first-person perspective of a character, created and developed
by the player, interacting online in real-time with teammates and
opponents.
Ultimate Baseball Online http://www.ultimatebaseballonline.com
About Netamin
Netamin Communication Corporation, a
pioneer in Massively Multiplayer Online Sports Games (MMOSG), is
headquartered in Diamond Bar, California with additional operations in
Korea. The company has launched its first MMOSG title, Ultimate Baseball
Online, with subsequent titles planned in the team sports genre. Founded
in 1999, Netamin is a privately-held corporation aiming to provide an
online virtual playing field for all major sports.
Netamin Communication Corporation http://www.netamin.com
> June 26, 2007
Battle for Moscow add-ons, patch released
Rainbow Six Vegas ships for Playstation 3
The Darkness hits Playstation 3 & Xbox 360
Theatre of War Battle for Moscow
Add-on and Game Patch released!
We are thrilled to announce the release of the highly anticipated Theatre
of War "Battle for Moscow Add-on and Game Patch". This
add-on/patch not only adds a new 10 Mission Russian Campaign to the game,
but also a full Map Editor as well as many game fixes, additions and
optimizations!
The Battle for Moscow Add-On and Game
Patch is 234 megs in size. This is the first patch for Theatre of War but
we are planning on more content and improvements in the future! This
Add-on and patch will update your game to version 1.3.0.56. Please read
below for important information about this patch and Add-on. You can
download the Theatre of War "Battle for Moscow Add-on and Game
Patch" from the following link:
http://www.battlefront.com/products/tow/patch.html#patch
Gameplay Patch issues and additions:
* Map Editor Added (accessed via the
builder.exe program or in the ToW Program Group shortcut "Map
Builder") * A new 10 mission "Battle for Moscow 1941"
Campaign Added. Accessed via the "Extra Campaigns" option in the
Campaign List page * Various fixes and changes to earlier campaign
missions * Improved logging functions to help with determining the causes
of certain crashes * Hot keys for Unit Formations, Movement Modes, Hold
Fire and Hold Position commands added * Better handling of the Reverse
Command for vehicles, tanks, SPG's, armored cars and Artillery units *
Various AI behavior changes to units implemented * Expanded sound system
(hear sounds further away and louder in some cases) * Improved sounds *
Waypoints added for units (hold 'shift' key when issuing movement orders
to place waypoints) * Units no longer stop when they receive a new order *
LOS tweaks - The visibility conditions through forest were changed * AI
Targeting behavior tweaked so that they can better fire on Hull Down
targets * Game speed acceleration/deceleration feature added (accessed via
the "Change time speed" hotkey currently) * Fixed bug with the
units boarding certain vehicles * Some Multiplayer load bugs during client
loading were fixed (more fixes will be coming in future patches) * Fixed
AT Guns not being able to have commands issued in some situations * Fixed
Load Game/Save Game errors * Towsetup 'Autodetect' functions improved *
Mission Editor "wrong application version error" bug fixed *
Improvements to the gun towing process implemented * Units now better at
holding position when they are in defensive positions * Various Mission
Editor errors corrected * New "License Helper" utility (called
License_Helper.exe) added to help those that had issues with the eLicense
program freezing or locking up in the past (see note below) * New manual
"Unlicense" short cut added to game program group (to unlicense
game without uninstalling) * Extensive improvements to Performance and
Stability (see note below)
Performance and Stability Note: This
patch includes various improvements to the game code to increase
performance and stability for regular, hyperthreading and multicore CPU's.
Further patches (to be released in the future) will add more optimizations
and improvements in this area as well as improvements to Multiplay. If
this patch version exhibits frequent crashes or lockups, while in the past
you did not encounter them, we have included a special .exe version which
does not include the same performance updates, but includes all the other
items listed above. To launch this special version of the game, browse to
your game folder and double-click on the file name
"ToW_1.4.exe". That will launch a version of the game that has
all of the same fixes listed above EXCEPT for the new
performance/stability tweaks.
License Helper Utility: If you have had
problems with the eLicense program locking up on you in the past when you
have tried to enter your license code, please browse into your game folder
and double-click on the file called "ToW_Helper.exe", that
should now allow the license system to function without freezing.
Previous Patches Note: This Battle for
Moscow Add-on and Game Patch is all inclusive and includes the same fixes
that were featured in the earlier eLicense Freeze Patch and the DVD
Compatibility Patch.
Version Note: This game Add-on and Patch
content will be added to download version of Theatre of War in the very
near future. If you download your copy of Theatre of War after June 25th,
please run the game and check the version # before you install this patch.
If your version number is listed as 1.3.0.56 on the main menu screen, you
do NOT need to download this patch.
Theatre of War depicts stunningly
authentic battles of World War II between 1939-1945. Command hundreds of
different unit types in 5 historically accurate campaigns (US, UK, Soviet,
German, French and Polish). This isn't just another WW2 RTS click-fest,
but a thrilling Real Time Combat Simulator with an emphasis firmly
entrenched on realism and detail, historical accuracy, and real world
military tactics that will challenge even the most battle hardened
armchair general!
UBISOFT SHIPS TOM CLANCY'S RAINBOW
SIX® VEGAS FOR THE PLAYSTATION®3 SYSTEM TO RETAILERS NATIONWIDE
SAN FRANCISCO — June 26, 2007 —
Today Ubisoft, one of the world's largest video game publishers, announced
that Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six® Vegas for the PLAYSTATION®3 computer
entertainment system has shipped to retail stores. Developed by Ubisoft's
award-winning Montreal studio, Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Vegas is the fifth
iteration of the multimillion-selling tactical shooter franchise and will
be available for the MSRP of $59.99.
The stakes are high when the world's
most elite counter-terrorism unit enters Las Vegas, a city more than 36.7
million men, women and children visit each year. "Sin City,” the
home of the Las Vegas Strip, flashy hotels, high-rolling casinos and
world-famous celebrities, becomes the setting for a terrorist threat of
global proportions. What happens when one of the world's most famous
cities is held hostage by terrorists?
Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Vegas, the
Academy of Interactive Arts and Science's First Person Action Game of
2006, arrives for the PLAYSTATION 3 system after critical and commercial
success on previously released versions of the game. Today, with more than
15.5 million units sold worldwide, the Rainbow Six franchise is known as
one of the best multiplayer experiences in gaming and is hailed for its
immersive single-player campaigns. The PLAYSTATION 3 system version will
feature 20 multiplayer maps and 10 game modes, introducing 10 all-new
multiplayer maps and two game modes not found in the title's previously
released versions.
For more information about Tom Clancy's
Rainbow Six Vegas, please visit www.rainbowsixgame.com.
© 2007 Ubisoft Entertainment. All
Rights Reserved. The Soldier icon, Ubisoft, Ubi.com, and the Ubisoft logo
are trademarks of Ubisoft Entertainment in the U.S. and/or other
countries. Rainbow Six, Red Storm, and the Red Storm logo are trademarks
of Red Storm Entertainment in the U.S. and/or other countries. Red Storm
Entertainment, Inc. is a Ubisoft Entertainment company."PlayStation",
"PLAYSTATION", and "PS" Family logo are registered
trademarks of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.
About Tom Clancy: With over 80 million
books sold, Tom Clancy is arguably the world's most recognized author. His
works include fiction such as The Hunt for Red October, Clear and Present
Danger, The Sum of All Fears, Rainbow Six, Red Rabbit, and The Teeth of
the Tiger. Clancy also writes non-fiction works about weapons and various
military units. Four of his books have already been adapted into highly
successful feature films.
About Ubisoft: Ubisoft is a leading
producer, publisher and distributor of interactive entertainment products
worldwide and has grown considerably through a strong and diversified
lineup of products and partnerships. Ubisoft has offices in 21 countries
and sales in more than 50 countries around the globe. It is committed to
delivering high-quality, cutting-edge video game titles to consumers.
Ubisoft generated sales of 680 million Euros for the 2006-07 fiscal year.
To learn more, please visit www.ubisoftgroup.com.
2K Announces The Darkness™ Now
Available
Based on renowned comic book franchise
and developed by Starbreeze Studios,
The Darkness brings gritty underworld
action to next-generation consoles
New York, NY – June 26, 2007 – 2K, a
publishing label of Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. (NASDAQ: TTWO),
announced today that The Darkness™ is now available in North America for
Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and
PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system. The Darkness is a
next-generation, first-person action game that features an immersive and
gritty storyline written in collaboration with famed comic book writer
Paul Jenkins.
“The Darkness takes the first-person
action video game to new depths on both a visual and a gameplay level and
brings the graphic novel to grisly new life,” said Christoph Hartmann,
President of 2K. “Starbreeze Studios really captured the dark and gritty
storyline of The Darkness comic book. Players can experience The Darkness
through an intense and engaging game that will stay with them long after
they’ve set their controllers down.”
Set in the dark and seedy underbelly of
New York City and the ethereal realm of The Darkness, players assume the
role of mafia hitman Jackie Estacado, heir to “The Darkness,” an
ancient power that awakens within him on his 21st birthday. Jackie must
use traditional weapons as well as learn to command his terrible new
powers to seek revenge on his own crime family. The Darkness is based on
the best-selling comic book series of the same name, published by Top Cow
Productions and created by Marc Silvestri, Garth Ennis, and David Wohl.
“The Darkness” comic book launched in 1996 and is currently published
in 19 different languages around the world.
“We are excited to work with 2K and
Starbreeze Studios to bring The Darkness from the printed page to the
next-generation consoles,” said Marc Silvestri, Founder of Top Cow
Productions. “Since we have all worked very closely on this project,
fans of the comic book will be pleased with how accurately and effectively
it comes to life as an incredibly visceral and enjoyable video game.”
Innovative features include:
Varying manifestations of the Darkness
allow you to devour, impale or implode your enemies. Use the Darkness to
toss huge objects like cars as though they were toys. Summon darklings -
impish and humorous demons - to do your bidding and eviscerate your foes.
Cannibalize your victims – Slay your enemies and command the Darkness to
eat their hearts and increase your strength and power. The light is your
enemy – Extinguish any light in your path while seeking the shadows
wherever possible in order to feed and replenish the Darkness. Insane
multiplayer – Shapeshift between darkling and human in online
multiplayer games and face other players in traditional as well as all-new
innovative multiplayer modes. Diverse voice talent – An all-star cast
adds authenticity to the characters and credibility to the overall
cinematic experience, including Kirk Acevedo (Oz, Band of Brothers) as
Jackie Estacado, Lauren Ambrose (Six Feet Under) as Jenny Romano, and Mike
Patton (Faith No More, Peeping Tom) as the voice of the Darkness. In-game
television – Watch select shows in their entirety, including everything
from Nosferatu to Popeye. Players can also tune into breaking news that
directly relates to the storyline.
The Darkness video game is rated “M”
for Mature and is now available for Xbox 360™ video game and
entertainment system from Microsoft and PLAYSTATION®3 computer
entertainment system. For more information, visit The Darkness website at:
www.TheDarknessIsSpreading.com. Embrace The Darkness.
About Starbreeze Studios
Starbreeze is a game developer based in
Uppsala, Sweden. The company was founded in 1998, and today employs a
staff of about 60, of numerous nationalities. Starbreeze has previously
released five games, the last one being "Chronicles of Riddick:
Escape from Butcher Bay" for Xbox and PC, released in 2004.
About Top Cow Productions, Inc.
Top Cow was founded in December of 1992
and currently publishes its line of comic books in 21 languages in over 55
different countries. The company has launched 20 franchises (18 original
and 2 licensed) in the industry's Top 10, seven at #1, a feat accomplished
by no other publisher in the last two decades. Its flagship franchise
Witchblade was TNT's #1 original film of 2000. Virtually all of Top Cow's
other properties are in development as feature films, live action
television, animation or video games. www.topcow.com
About Take-Two Interactive Software
Headquartered in New York City, Take-Two
Interactive Software, Inc. is a global developer, marketer, distributor
and publisher of interactive entertainment software games for the PC,
PlayStation® game console, PlayStation®2 and PLAYSTATION®3 computer
entertainment systems, PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system, Xbox® and
Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment systems from Microsoft, Wii™,
Nintendo GameCube™, Nintendo DS™ and Game Boy® Advance. The Company
publishes and develops products through its wholly owned labels Rockstar
Games, 2K and 2K Sports, and Global Star Software; and distributes
software, hardware and accessories in North America through its Jack of
All Games subsidiary. Take-Two's common stock is publicly traded on NASDAQ
under the symbol TTWO. For more corporate and product information please
visit our website at www.take2games.com.
Xbox, Xbox 360 and Xbox Live are either
registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United
States and/or other countries.
"PLAYSTATION" and the
"PS" Family logo are registered trademarks of Sony Computer
Entertainment Inc. Memory Stick Duo™ may be required (sold separately).
