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November 19, 2007
New Halo 3 maps unveiled
SCEA enhances PS3 dev tools
Sony Computer Entertainment Boosts
PLAYSTATION(R)3 Game Development Environment
Strongly Supporting PS3 Game Developers
by Contributing to the Improved Efficiency of Game Development
TOKYO, Nov. 19 /PRNewswire/ -- Sony
Computer Entertainment Inc. (SCEI) today announced that it would enhance
the game development support environment for PLAYSTATION(R)3 (PS3(R)) by
integrating programming tools developed by SN Systems Limited (SN
Systems)(*1), as part of the PS3 Software Development Kit (SDK)(*2). By
building on the well-established line-up of SN tool products, including
the core programming tool ProDG, and offering it as part of the PS3 SDK,
SCEI is committed to strongly supporting the game development community.
Additionally, SCEI will enable the Debugging Station for PS3 (DECHA007J/
DECHA007A) to take part in the programming process, effectively assisting
PS3 game title development on the Reference Tool (DECR-1000/ DECR-1000A)
(*3). Along with these measures to improve efficiency in PS3 game
development, SCEI has also almost halved the price for its PS3 Reference
Tool, effective immediately. The Reference Tool will now become available
at JPY950,000 in Japan, US $10,250 in North America and euro7,500 in
Europe(*4). The distinguished high-quality line-up of SN Systems'
programming tools to be integrated into the PS3 SDK include(*5):
1 ProDG: Effective immediately, ProDG, a
highly regarded and powerful programming tool developed by SN Systems,
renowned for its highly customizable superior user interface, will become
available free of charge as part of the PS3 SDK. Additionally, through the
improvement of its functionalities, ProDG, which used to be available for
use only on the Reference Tool, is now available for use on the Debugging
Station as well, contributing to reduction in development costs. 2 SN
Distributed Build System (SN-DBS): On October 12th, license and support
fees for SN-DBS were eliminated. SN-DBS is a distributed build system that
improves productivity by dramatically reducing compiling time by
distributing source code builds to multiple PCs on a local area network,
allowing them to process in parallel. Compiling time is reduced by
approximately 80% when using 6 PCs. 3 SN LINKER: A program that is used
during the building process for linking compiled programs. Compared to the
existing linker, linking speed is significantly improved and can be up to
eight times faster. The release of this program has already started
through the SDK's system software update released on November 2nd. 4 SN
Compiler (SNC): A new compiler that will be provided as the standard
compiler for PS3. It is optimized for use for PS3 by adopting the industry
standard C++ front-end and will significantly elevate game quality as well
as improving productivity through its improved code generating efficiency.
Release of the beta version of SNC will start from mid December as part of
the SDK.
In addition to the provision of these
powerful tools as part of the SDK, SCEI has also added the capability for
the Debugging Station to take part in programming, thus assisting PS3 game
title development on the Reference Tool, instead of using it only as a
quality assurance system for games under development. Game developers are
able to power up Debugging Station by simply updating to the latest
version SDK provided on November 2nd. Adding this new capability to assist
game title development will contribute to cost efficiency and overall
productivity. The PS3 Reference Tool is optimized for the creation of
entirely new interactive entertainment that is only available on PS3,
taking full advantage of state-of-the-art technologies such as Cell
Broadband Engine(TM) (Cell/B.E.) and RSX(R). As more and more new titles
are developed for the PS3 format, SCEI will significantly reduce the price
of the Reference Tool in order to contribute to the cost saving measures
of the development community. Along with this boost to the PS3 game
development environment, SCEI will further reinforce its support system to
the development community, and continue to further expand the PS3
platform.
(*1) SN Systems is a wholly owned
subsidiary of SCEI, acquired in 2005. (*2) Software Development Kit is a
software library for game developers. Developers are able to obtain this
library by signing a license agreement with SCE and by purchasing tool
products. (*3) A game software development tool for PS3. (*4) All prices
are exclusive of tax. (*5) These SN Systems tool products are provided
free of charge.
About Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.
Recognized as the global leader and company responsible for the
progression of consumer-based computer entertainment, Sony Computer
Entertainment Inc. (SCEI) manufacturers, distributes and markets the
PlayStation(R) game console, the PlayStation(R)2 computer entertainment
system, the PSP(R) (PlayStation(R)Portable) handheld entertainment system
and the PLAYSTATION(R)3 (PS3(R)) system. PlayStation has revolutionized
home entertainment by introducing advanced 3D graphic processing, and
PlayStation 2 further enhances the PlayStation legacy as the core of home
networked entertainment. PSP is a new handheld entertainment system that
allows users to enjoy 3D games, with high-quality full-motion video, and
high-fidelity stereo audio. PS3 is an advanced computer system,
incorporating the state-of-the-art Cell processor with super computer like
power. SCEI, along with its subsidiary divisions Sony Computer
Entertainment America Inc., Sony Computer Entertainment Europe Ltd., and
Sony Computer Entertainment Korea Inc. develops, publishes, markets and
distributes software, and manages the third party licensing programs for
these platforms in the respective markets worldwide. Headquartered in
Tokyo, Japan, Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. is an independent business
unit of the Sony Group.
“Halo 3” Evolves as Heroic Map
Pack Explodes onto Marketplace in December
Plus, this Week “Undertow” Dives
onto Xbox LIVE Arcade and a Thanksgiving Sale comes to MSN Games this
Wednesday
The internationally award-winning “Halo
3” multiplayer experience is about to get even better. After launching
to incredible acclaim and fanaticism, “Halo 3” players will be able to
enjoy three all new multiplayer maps on Dec. 11 as part of the Heroic Map
Pack, the first in a series of downloadable content from Bungie Studios to
come via Xbox LIVE.
Available for 800 Microsoft Points
exclusively on Xbox LIVE Marketplace, each map presents a totally
different play style. Standoff’s symmetrical valley, with its entrenched
bases and fields of boulders is ideal for mid-sized objective and Slayer
game types, while Rat’s Nest’s vast, labyrinthine passages bring
something new to the “Halo” multiplayer experience: an indoor vehicle
paradise, strongly influenced by the Campaign mode, ideal for big team
battles. Finally, Foundry is the ultimate Forge map – players can edit
every single object in this voluminous industrial warehouse, place
stairways, walls, bridges and tunnels to create an entirely new play space
and build almost any kind of map they can think of.
All three maps will become available for
free download via Xbox LIVE Marketplace in Spring 2008, just prior to the
next wave of all new “Halo 3” multiplayer maps.
As if the legions of "Halo 3"
players needed more reasons to stay logged on and fragging, the Forge also
allows players to edit and customize all three maps, keeping “Halo 3’s”
multiplayer experience fresh, exciting and evolving. In addition, ongoing
updates to “Halo 3’s” matchmaking playlists ensure that ranked and
social gameplay remains dynamic and competitive.
While you wait for the “Halo 3”
Heroic Map Pack, check out the 101st game to launch on Xbox LIVE Arcade as
Chair Entertainment Group brings “Undertow” to the platform. The
fast-paced, aquatic action game arrives this Wednesday, November 21st,
2007 at 9:00 a.m. GMT (2:00 a.m. PST).
"Undertow" redefines aquatic
based shooters through a mix of high-definition graphics, intuitive
controls and multiple modes of game play action. "Undertow"
features a story driven single player campaign, on and offline co-op, and
multiplayer for up to 16 players over Xbox LIVE. Players battle for
control of the oceans as one of three selectable races, each with four
unique, upgradeable units. "Undertow" will be available
worldwide this Wednesday for 800 Microsoft Points and is rated E10+.
In other Microsoft Casual Games news,
Thanksgiving comes early this year with an MSN Games “Thanksgaming Sale.”
Starting at 12:01 a.m. PST on Wednesday, November 21 (3:01 a.m. EST)
through 8:59 p.m. PST (11:59 p.m. EST) Monday, November 26, ALL download
titles on MSN Games will be 50% off in the United States only. For more
details on the MSN Games “Thanksgaming Sale,” please visit http://zone.msn.com/en/general/article/thanksgamingsale.htm.
> November 16, 2007
Playstation 3 turns one
Beowulf invades stores
SONY COMPUTER ENTERTAINMENT
AMERICA CELEBRATES FIRST BIRTHDAY OF PLAYSTATION 3
FOSTER CITY, Calif., November 16, 2007 -
Sony Computer Entertainment America
(SCEA) today celebrates the first birthday of its PLAYSTATION®3 (PS3)
computer entertainment system. Launched one year ago in North America, PS3
has
revolutionized the industry with its Cell Broadband Engine and RSX
technology which gives the system tremendous computational power; Blu-ray
Discâ
¢ capabilities which provides state-of-the art graphics and unrivaled
storage
capacity; and free access to PLAYSTATION ®Network where PS3 users can
experience
online gaming, connect with other PS3 users as well as download games,
movies
and other content from the PLAYSTATION ®Store.
In its first year, more than 200
software titles have been released for PS3 and
more than 60 million pieces of content have been downloaded from
PLAYSTATION
Network worldwide. Also, through the continued support of and dialogue
with PS3
users, remarkable hardware advancements and features have been added to
the
system through firmware updates making it the most advanced computer
entertainment system on the market today.
"When we designed PS3 our goal was
to introduce a system so technically
advanced that it could stand the test of time and could take the industry
in a
whole new direction, which for PS3 was high-definition entertainment",
said
Jack Tretton, President and CEO of SCEA. "While we're excited by the
progress we've made this first year, we know that like our other
platforms,
the best is still yet to come, especially given our new hardware and
software
line-up, and that PS3 will continue to take the industry to new heights
for
years to come."
PS3 is the first gaming system to
provide a disc capacity of 50GB thanks to its
Blu-ray Disc functionality. Current PS3 first party games are currently in
the
20GB range, well north of the threshold of HD-DVD or DVD, allowing for
unmatched
potential for games, movies and other media.
"The inclusion of the Blu-ray drive
in PS3 reflects Sony's absolute
commitment to the format," said Sir Howard Stringer, Chairman and CEO
of Sony
Corporation. "We firmly believe that Blu-ray is the best high
definition
format for consumers, providing superior capacity, next-generation games,
more
hit movie titles, and the best possible picture and sound quality. With
PS3,
you get an amazing game machine and a state-of-the-art high definition
movie
player, and it is clear from recent sales numbers that this combination is
resonating with millions of PS3 customers."
SCEA recently introduced new PS3
hardware models and pricing and the company is
already seeing strong sales momentum as a result, PS3 sales have increased
by
192 percent at the top 10 retailers in North America. The availability of
new
hardware, combined with the release of more than 160 software titles,
including
19 first and third-party exclusives such as Heavenly Sword, Ratchet &
Clank
Future: Tools of Destruction, Warhawk, Uncharted: Drake's Fortune, Gran
Turismo 5
Prologue, Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots, Unreal
Tournament 3, and Haze,
SCEA expects PS3 momentum to continue this holiday and beyond.
SCEA also recently launched a new PS3
advertising campaign, the company's
biggest marketing effort to date, designed to deliver a high-energy
message with
a focus on the exciting entertainment value of PS3 and exclusive content
found
only on PS3. The lineup of advertisements will feature some of SCEA's most
highly anticipated first party titles. In addition to pure game play, the
campaign will convey to consumers the benefits of Blu-ray Disc and for the
first
time, sharp focus will be paid to PLAYSTATION Network along with
breakthrough
services such as PLAYSTATION Home.
About Sony Computer Entertainment
America Inc.
Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. continues to redefine the
entertainment
lifestyle with its PlayStation ® brand, including the PlayStation ®2
(PS2)
computer entertainment system, the PSP (PlayStation Portable)
entertainment
system, the ground-breaking PLAYSTATIONÂ 3 (PS3) computer entertainment
system and its online and network services PLAYSTATION ®Network and
PLAYSTATION ®Store.
Recognized as the undisputed industry
leader, Sony Computer Entertainment
America Inc. markets the PlayStation family of products and develops,
publishes,
markets and distributes software for PS2, PSP, PS3 and PLAYSTATION Network
for
the North American market. Based in Foster City, Calif. Sony Computer
Entertainment America Inc. serves as headquarters for all North American
operations and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Sony Computer Entertainment
Inc.
UBISOFT'S BEOWULF(TM) VIDEO GAME
BASED ON PARAMOUNT AND SHANGRI-LA'S HIGHLY ANTICIPATED FEATURE FILM IN
STORES NOW
Epic Tale of Power and Glory Gives
Players the Chance to Define Their Legacy as Legendary Norse Warrior
SAN FRANCISCO – November 16, 2007 –
Today Ubisoft, one of the world's largest video game publishers, announced
that Beowulf(TM), the action combat game based on Paramount Pictures' and
Shangri-La Entertainment's Beowulf, the upcoming feature film from Academy
Award®-winning director Robert Zemeckis, is now available on store
shelves.
"Today is an exciting day for
Ubisoft as we launch the Beowulf video game alongside the release of the
Beowulf movie,” stated Tony Key, senior vice president of sales and
marketing at Ubisoft. "Working closely with Paramount Pictures and
Shangri-La Entertainment has allowed us to breathe new life into this
ancient tale, creating an amazing gaming experience that will extend
Beowulf's adventures for fans of both the epic poem and the new feature
film.”
The Beowulf video game is an interactive
experience that captures the spirit and artistic beauty of the film while
offering an even deeper look into the epic tale of Beowulf. The video
game, developed by the award-winning team that created the original Tom
Clancy's Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter® in Ubisoft's Tiwak studio,
features exclusive content that is unexplored by both the film and the
classic tale, extending the adventure through 30 years of the Beowulf
story.
"The Beowulf video game extends and
complements the motion picture experience beyond the silver screen,”
said Sandi Isaacs, senior vice president interactive and mobile for
Paramount Pictures. "Our goal has always been to provide fans with
authentic and compelling game play timed to coincide with the opening of
our film, and this game delivers on this promise.”
Key features: + Players will delve even
deeper into the adventure as they play through 30 years of the Beowulf
story not seen in the movie to experience more of Beowulf's life and mold
their own legacy. + An authentic adaptation of the film, which includes
the voices and likeness of Academy Award®-winner Anthony Hopkins as King
Hrothgar, Ray Winstone as Beowulf, Brendan Gleeson as Wiglaf and Sebastien
Roche as Wulfgar. + The mystical world of Beowulf comes to life in
stunning fashion. Powered by the next evolution of the award-winning YETI
technology used to create the critically acclaimed Tom Clancy's Ghost
Recon Advanced Warfighter and Tom Clancy's Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter
2, Beowulf delivers an unrivalled graphical experience. + Players unlock
an army of up to 12 Thanes to unlock as they increase their heroic
experience. Players use the Thane army to their advantage by giving
orders, triggering in-game mechanisms, assigning strategic positions and
tailoring upgradeable weapons to the situation or enemy. + Carnal Power
allows the use of grapple attacks for visceral hand-to-hand combat and
special weapons. Players use legacy experience points for Carnal upgrades
resulting in increasingly fierce action and brutal attacks. + Dynamic
combat system including advanced combos, skilful parries and increased
battle proficiency as the player progresses.
The Beowulf video game is available for
the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft (MSRP:
$59.99), the PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system (MSRP: $59.99),
the PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system (MSRP: $39.99) and Windows PC (MSRP:
$49.99). The game is rated "M” for Mature by the ESRB.
About the Movie Groundbreaking director
Robert Zemeckis offers a vision of the Beowulf saga that has never been
told before. In a time of heroes, the mighty warrior Beowulf slays the
demon Grendel and incurs the wrath of its monstrous, yet seductive, mother
in a conflict that transforms a king into a legend. Beowulf stars Ray
Winstone in the title role and Anthony Hopkins as the corrupt King
Hrothgar, as well as John Malkovich, Robin Wright Penn, Brendan Gleeson,
Crispin Glover, Alison Lohman and Angelina Jolie as Grendel's mother.
Paramount Pictures, in association with Shangri-La Entertainment, Presents
an ImageMovers Production of a Robert Zemeckis film, Beowulf. Neil Gaiman
& Roger Avary adapted the legend for the screen. The film is produced
by Steve Starkey, Robert Zemeckis and Jack Rapke. The executive producers
are Martin Shafer, Roger Avary and Neil Gaiman.
For more information about the Beowulf
video game, please visit http://www.beowulfgame.com.
For more information on the film, visit
the official site at http://www.beowulfmovie.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 Paramount Pictures Paramount
Pictures Corporation (PPC), a unit of Viacom (NYSE: VIA, VIA.B), is a
global entertainment company that produces and distributes filmed
entertainment through the Paramount Motion Picture Group which includes
Paramount Pictures, Paramount Vantage, Paramount Classics, MTV Films and
Nick Movies. PPC operations also include Paramount Pictures International,
Paramount Home Entertainment, Paramount Digital Entertainment, Paramount
Studios and Worldwide Television Distribution.
> November 15, 2007
America's Army hits Xbox 360
Civ IV marks Gametap's 1000th
Call of Duty 4's Xbox Weekend
Sunage trailer released
Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare-- Xbox
LIVE Weekend Starts Tomorrow
Starting tomorrow, Nov. 16 at 12:01 EST,
Call of Duty® 4: Modern Warfare™ will invade the Xbox LIVE®online
entertainment network for a 72-hour Play & Win Sweepstakes full of
games and prizes. Hourly prizes will be awarded all weekend, including
Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare shirts, Infinity Ward autographed posters
and Xbox LIVE point cards. One Grand Prize winner also will receive an
Xbox 360 Elite console and a Limited Edition Call of Duty 4: Modern
Warfare faceplate, among other items.
Friday, Nov. 16 – Sunday, November 18
– Play and Win.
Register and Play COD4: Modern Warfare
on Xbox LIVE during the weekend and win an Xbox 360 Elite, Infinity Ward
team autographed Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare swag, limited edition Call
of Duty 4: Modern Warfare faceplates, Xbox 360 accessories, Microsoft
Points and other great Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare prizes. There will
be one winner for every hour this weekend (72 hours) as well as the grand
prize which includes the Elite, autograph swag, faceplate and accessories.
(The hourly winners get Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare poster, t-shirt,
and MS Points.)
Friday, Nov. 16 – 6pm -9pm EST –
Play with over a dozen gamers from developer, Infinity Ward.
Saturday, Nov. 17 – The PMS Clan joins
the online action for Saturday night gaming.
More details on registering for the Call
of Duty4: Modern Warfare LIVE Fire weekend and information regarding
terms, conditions, and official rules are available on the official event
page: www.xbox.com/livefire/. Registration is open now and will end at
11:59pm (ET) on November 18, 2007.
For times, rules and other details
please visit: www.xbox.com/livefire or www.charlieoscardelta.com.
Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare for the
Xbox 360®video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, Windows® PC
and PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system is now available and has
been rated “M” for Mature by the ESRB for Intense Violence, Strong
Language, Blood and Gore. The game will also be available for and Nintendo
DS™ and has been rated “T” for Teen by the ESRB for Teen for Blood
and Violence.
GAMETAP REACHES 1,000 GAMES WITH SID
MEIER’S CIVILIZATION IV™
Broadband leader celebrates milestone
with critically acclaimed 2K Games title
GameTap proudly announces that 2K Games’
Sid Meier’s Civilization IV, one of the most popular and internationally
acclaimed PC games ever, has been selected as the 1,000th game added to
the network’s massive library of current and classic console, arcade, PC
and original titles. By reaching this milestone, GameTap has established a
new industry standard for depth and quality of on-demand gaming content,
far surpassing competing broadband gaming channels.
Developed by Firaxis Games, 2K Games’
world-renowned development studio, Civilization IV joins a host of other
great Sid Meier content available on the GameTap service, including the
recently added Sid Meier’s Pirates!™, an exclusive Sid Meier interview
on GameTap TV and an in-depth retrospective on Meier’s prolific career
on GameTap Read. Players wishing to play the games, watch the interview or
purchase Civilization IV for direct download should visit: www.gametap.com/SidMeier.
Fans interested in viewing all the games
that comprise the GameTap catalog can do so with an interactive photo
mosaic available here www.gametap.com/explore.
GameTap is the first-of-its-kind
broadband entertainment network for gamers created by Turner Broadcasting.
In addition to its record-setting library of games on-demand, GameTap
offers hundreds of hours of exclusive and original programming on GameTap
TV and is driving the next generation broadband business model with
day-and-date releases of major new titles, such as Clive Barker’s
Jericho, which is currently available to Gold level subscribers.
Subscriptions are currently available for as low as $5.00 per month and
new subscribers can get their first month for only 99 cents. Sign up today
at www.gametap.com.
2K Games is a publishing label of
Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. (NASDAQ: TTWO).
UBISOFT AND U.S. ARMY ANNOUNCE AMERICA'S
ARMY®: TRUE SOLDIERS(TM) LAUNCHES TODAY EXCLUSIVELY FOR XBOX 360®
First Next-Gen America's Army Game Touts
Deep Multiplayer Experience
SAN FRANCISCO – November 15, 2007 –
Today Ubisoft, one of the world's largest video game publishers, and the
U.S. Army announced that America's Army®: True Soldiers(TM), exclusively
for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft is
now available in retail stores nationwide at the manufacturers suggested
retail price of $59.99 – the game is rated "T” for Teen.
America's Army: True Soldiers takes full
advantage of the multiplayer experience featuring eight maps developed by
Red Storm Entertainment and full Xbox LIVE® online gaming service Clan
support, so teams will be able to quickly jump online and compete. Players
will immerse themselves within the true infantry experience of a modern
Soldier via the graphical prowess of the Tom Clancy's Ghost Recon Advanced
Warfighter® 2 game engine. As a Soldier in single-player mode, players
will advance through their career and take on roles such as Rifleman,
Grenadier, Automatic Rifleman and Sniper. Red Storm and the Army are
working together to make sure that the America's Army: True Soldiers
gameplay experience is an authentic Army experience.
The America's Army: True Soldiers game
accurately portrays the values that guide U.S. Army Soldiers by
specifically incorporating gameplay based on mission accomplishment,
teamwork, leadership, rules of engagement and respect for life and
property. Just like in real combat, honor and respect must be earned, and
in the game, the Play-Lead-Recruit feature allows players to earn respect
as they move up through the ranks and become true leaders.
Teammates can award honor points to
other team members who play honorably and jump in when the mission is on
the line. As players accumulate honor points, they earn America's Army
reward coins that can be redeemed for prizes in the America's Army
"Live the Experience” contest that offers unique prizes such as
becoming a Golden Knight, a game developer, or a Soldier for a day
(http://truesoldiers.americasarmy.com)
America's Army: True Soldiers is going
to be a huge multiplayer hit on Xbox LIVE and a compelling feature is how
the single-player experience integrates seamlessly into the multiplayer
aspect of the game. Single-player accomplishments and skills earned in
categories such as Valor, Marksmanship, Stealth and Conditioning, will be
upgradeable and then immediately utilized on Xbox LIVE to dominate online.
As the most realistic U.S. Army
experience on a console, America's Army: True Soldiers will feature
high-tech equipment, including a Blue Force Tracker that improves
recognition of targets while increasing information to the player.
Additional Intel will be gathered by the Raven UAV and displayed on their
Blue Force Tracker. AI teammates can share Intel via in-game voice-over.
America's Army: True Soldiers is a game
that will appeal to both hardcore gamers who love Xbox LIVE, military fans
and those who want the ability to play through an authentic U.S. Army
experience on the console. The innovative parental controls allow parents
to determine the settings at the level they feel appropriate, thus
customizing the gameplay action for fresh recruits or for season veterans.
For more information about America's Army: True Soldiers please visit
www.truesoldiersgame.com.
About America's Army Launched on July
4th 2002, America's Army is an innovative PC action game that provides
young adults with an inside perspective and a virtual role in today's
high-tech Army. The America's Army game provides players with a virtual
"test drive” of Soldiering in the U.S. Army from basic training to
the battlefield in the Global War on Terrorism.
Since July 2002 the Army has released 23
major updates to its America's Army game for the PC. These releases, which
are available at www.americasarmy.com, feature new technologies, missions,
Army units and occupations. The most recent updates are part of the
America's Army: Special Forces (Overmatch) series which focuses upon the
central role Special Forces play in the Global War on Terrorism and
highlights technologies that provide small U.S. Army units with the
ability to overmatch much larger enemy forces. The America's Army game
also includes the America's Army Real Heroes program that offers a glimpse
into the accomplishments of Soldiers who have distinguished themselves in
combat and earned citations for bravery and valor.
About Ubisoft Ubisoft is a leading
producer, publisher and distributor of interactive entertainment products
worldwide and has grown considerably through a strong and diversified
line-up of products and partnerships. Ubisoft has offices in 23 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 the Army Through the teamwork of
the more than 1.2 million Soldiers in the active Army, Army National
Guard, and Army Reserve, the U.S. Army is the world's premier land force.
Today, Soldiers of the U.S. Army are the front line in the Global War on
Terrorism. For more information on the U.S. Army, go to www.goarmy.com or
www.army.mil.
© 2007 Ubisoft Entertainment. All
Rights Reserved. America's Army, America's Army: Operations, America's
Army: Special Forces; Empower Yourself, Defend Freedom, The Official U.S.
Army Game and U.S. Army are trademarks or registered trademarks of the
United States Army in the United States and/or other countries and used
under license from the United States Army. True Soldiers, Ubisoft, Ubi.com,
and the Ubisoft logo are trademarks of Ubisoft Entertainment in the U.S.
and/or other countries. Developed by Red Storm and High Voltage Software.
Red Storm and the Red Storm logo are trademarks of Red Storm
Entertainment. Red Storm Entertainment, Inc. is a Ubisoft Entertainment
company. Microsoft, Xbox, Xbox 360, Xbox LIVE, and the Xbox logos are
trademarks of the Microsoft group of companies.
Teaser Released for New Sci-fi RTS Game
SUNAGE Toronto, Canada -- Nov 15, 2007 -- Leading publisher Lighthouse
Interactive and developer Vertex 4 today released the much anticipated
teaser for SunAge. Scheduled to release in January 2007 across North
America, this energetic RTS game offers a unique experience bringing
modern innovation to the isometric style of real-time strategy. This PC
CD-ROM game is Windows® Vista(tm) compatible.
Globally known music producer, Angina P,
created the music for the teaser. She is a production force whose unique
sound transforms raw elements of breakbeat, new age and ambience, into
unique and rare gems. Beside the music for the teaser, she created and
produced the complete SunAge soundtrack.
GAME SUMMARY: SunAge is the modern day
answer for RTS fans who want the best possible overview on their troops,
while trying to outsmart opponents in frantic battles where strategies and
tactics are more important than ever. If you are a core real-time strategy
gamer, SunAge is for you! Earth is a desolate wasteland destroyed by the
radiation and heat of the sun. Humankind, known as the Dome Confederacy,
have been forced to retreat into shielded cities enduring constant attacks
by the Raak-zun cult; a sect of religious outcasts who live outside the
dome. An age long war has ensued as both races battle for the limited
resources of the dying planet. Amidst the havoc, the gateway to a bold new
planet is unlocked. Hope is on the horizon, but this mecca is teeming with
lethal Sentinel drones who will not hesitate to annihilate any life form
that gets in their way.
FEATURES: 3 Distinct Races - Human,
Raak-zun and Sentinel - each with their own units, buildings,
technological advantages and disadvantages. Unique Upgrades - Alternate
modes can be researched for all units, unlocking dual functionality for
greater tactical depth. Graphics - Stunning sci-fi environments from vast
industrial cities and devastated wastelands, to a lush alien planet. While
displaying rich graphical environments and visual effects, SunAge is very
playable on lower spec PC's and laptops. Tactical Landscape - All units
and their alternate modes are crucial to the overall strategy. Exploit
weaknesses in the enemy's network while strengthening your own connection
lines. Formations - Squad concept combined with long distance camera views
allows a large number of units to be fighting onscreen with a clear
overview of the battle ground. Singleplayer - 25 campaign maps with
compelling plots for each race. Multiplayer - LAN and Online - Classic
multiplayer with focus on gathering 4 different kinds of resources and
outsmarting the opponent in battle. 10 maps created uniquely for
multiplayer mode. Command Queuing - Command your units to prone, build or
attack where you want them and when you want them to do so. Indirect
Intelligent Targeting (IIT) - Order your units to focus on pre-selected
targets.
MINIMUM SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS: OS:
Windows® ME / 2000 / XP / Vista(tm) CPU: 1,2 GHz Intel® Pentium® III or
equivalent AMD® Athlon(tm) processor RAM: 512 MB (1 GB Recommended for
Windows® Vista(tm)) Video Card: 128 MB 3D accelerated video card PC
CD-ROM: 4x (or PC DVD-ROM drive) Sound: DirectSound® compatible (Sound
Blaster® X-Fi(tm) series sound card recommended) Available Hard Disk
Space: 1 GB DirectX®: 9.0c compatible Other: Mouse, Keyboard and Speakers
Multiplayer: LAN or 56K (or faster) Internet Connection
To download the new teaser, visit:
http://www.mmpr.com/MMPRFTP/FTP%20Folders/Lighthouse/
To find out more about SunAge and to
keep up with the latest news on the game, visit
www.lighthouse-interactive.com>/a> and www.sunage-the-game.com.
About Vertex4
After many years of dedicated indie
development, Vertex4 Ltd. was founded in 2005. While having its
headquarters in Vienna, Austria, the team also includes talents from
Denmark and the U.K. The company focuses on the creation of Real-time
Strategy (RTS) games for the PC. Their premier project is SunAge. For more
information about the company, visit www.vertex4.com.
About Lighthouse Interactive
Lighthouse Interactive is a fast growing
publisher of interactive entertainment with offices established in Toronto
and Montreal, Canada, Haarlem, The Netherlands and London, England. The
company is focused on bringing strong titles to the worldwide market in a
wide array of genres including: RPG, Simulation, Adventure, Action and
Strategy. Staffed with industry veterans, Lighthouse is the right choice
for developers looking to bring their products to a worldwide audience.
www.lighthouse-interactive.com
>
November 14, 2007
Xbox Live at Five
New PGR4 tournaments
Assassin's Creed kills retail
UBISOFT ANNOUNCES ASSASSIN'S
CREED(TM) VIDEO GAME NOW AVAILABLE IN STORES
SAN FRANCISCO – November 14, 2007 –
Today Ubisoft, one of the world's largest video game publishers, announced
its highly anticipated Assassin's Creed(TM) video game is now available in
retail stores nationwide in North America. Easily one of the most
anticipated games for the holiday season and the game has arrived on the
PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system and the Xbox 360® video game
and entertainment system from Microsoft at the MSRP of $59.99 with the
Limited Edition priced at $69.99. It is rated "M” for Mature by the
ESRB.
"Assassin's Creed is an incredible
experience unlike anything else available this holiday season and we're
thrilled with the buzz and attention the title has received,” shared
Tony Key, senior vice president of sales and marketing at Ubisoft.
"We anticipate having a strong sell through for Assassin's Creed and
it's exciting to push the industry with such a breakthrough title in terms
of technology, design and story. The development team in Montreal set out
to redefine the action-adventure category and we now know that they have
accomplished their goal.”
Initial reviews of Assassin's Creed have
been outstanding:
• Game Informer 9.5/10
• PlayStation: The Official Magazine 10/10
• GamePro 5/5
• The Laser "Killer! A+" (Golden Polka-Dot Dress
Award)
• GameSpot U.S. 9/10
• GamesRadar U.S. 10/10
• GameTrailers 9.1/10
• Yahoo! Games 4.5/5
About Assassin's Creed The game is set
in 1191 AD, when the Third Crusade was tearing the Holy Land apart.
Shrouded in secrecy and feared for their ruthlessness, the Assassins
intend to stop the hostilities by suppressing both sides of the conflict.
Players will assume the role of the main character, Altair, and will have
the power to throw their immediate environment into chaos and truly
experience the art of a master assassin. For more information, please
visit www.assassinscreed.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.
© 2007 Ubisoft Entertainment. All
Rights Reserved. Assassin's Creed, Ubisoft, Ubi.com, and the Ubisoft logo
are trademarks of Ubisoft Entertainment in the U.S. and/or other
countries. "PlayStation”, "PLAYSTATION” and "PS”
Family logo are registered trademarks of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.
Microsoft, Xbox, Xbox 360, Xbox LIVE, and the Xbox logos are trademarks of
the Microsoft group of companies.
New Tournament Modes for PGR
4
Ladies and gentlemen, we are proud and excited to reveal four new,
upcoming Tournament modes for Project Gotham Racing 4. These inventive new
modes will be available to download starting on Nov. 15 for free on Xbox
LIVE ® Marketplace for the Xbox 360TM video game and entertainment system
from Microsoft. Project Gotham Racing 4 players will have the opportunity
to practice drifting and sliding their way to glory by participating in
four new types of races: Daily Tournaments, Super Saturday, Simulation
Sundays, and the Global Cup. Each race is unique, so read on to learn
about each one, what you’ll have to do to be invited to the party and
what you’ll face when you get there.
How to Qualify:
· The Tournament Leaderboards include a
timer counting down how much time is left to qualify.
· To qualify for a Tournament, race as
fast as you can on a Solo Hot Lap to set the best lap time.
· Once you finish racing, you can check
the Tournament Leaderboards to see if you’ve qualified.
· Those who qualified will have a spot
reserved for them.
· No shows for the Tournament
Elimination rounds will be disqualified.
Racing in Daily Tournaments · Available
Monday through Friday
· Each Daily Tournament begins and ends
in a single day.
· A total of 640 players (five groups
of 128) can qualify for each Daily Tournament.
· Only the Top Two finishers advance in
each elimination round.
Racing in Super Saturdays · Available
on Saturdays only
· Each Super Saturday Tournament begins
and ends on a single Saturday.
· A total of 2,560 players (five groups
of 512) can qualify for each Super Saturday Tournament.
· Only the Top Two finishers advance in
each elimination round.
Racing in Simulation Sundays ·
Available on Sundays only
· Each Simulation Sunday Tournament
begins and ends on a single Sunday.
· Players are required to use
In-Car-View/Manual Gear only.
· A total of 64 players can qualify for
each Simulation Sunday Tournament.
· Only the Top Four finishers advance
in each elimination round.
Racing in the Global Cup · Available
twice a month
· Each Global Cup Tournament takes two
weeks to complete.
· A total of 512 players can qualify
for each Global Cup Tournament:
o The Top 20 finishers for each Nation
o The Top 32 finishers from the “Rest
of World”
· Elimination rounds take place on the
second Saturday of the tournament
Winners of the Global Cup will have
their gamertags proudly displayed on the PGRNations home page. Winners in
the other Tournaments will have their victories appear in the leaderboards.
Get ready, ladies and gentleman, because
the Tournaments are almost here. You better bring your best game, because
in Tournament play, the winners become online racing legends.
As Xbox LIVE Turns Five, Microsoft
Announces Next Wave of Social Fun
Xbox LIVE Membership Soars Past
Eight Million Mark, Microsoft Unveils New Download Service for Full Xbox
Games Direct to Your Living Room, Beginning Dec. 4
REDMOND, Wash. — Nov. 13, 2007 — On
November 15, Microsoft Corp. will celebrate the fifth anniversary of Xbox
LIVE. In addition, the company notes that the latest membership figures
show more than eight-million members are now actively engaged in the
largest social entertainment network on TV. Xbox LIVE has grown from a
small community of gamers in two countries, playing a handful of games
online with their friends, to a worldwide social entertainment network
offering online access to gaming, movies, music and TV shows. As friends
across 26 countries and nine languages have connected on Xbox LIVE, it is
their feedback and active participation that has guided the service to
become what Wired magazine recently called “The king of the online
arena.” As a gesture of thanks to the gaming community, all eight
million members will have the opportunity to download a free Xbox LIVE
Arcade game* between 12:01 a.m. PST on Nov. 15 and 11:59 p.m. PST on Nov.
16**. In addition to this, every active member who joined the service in
2002 will receive 500 MS Points for free.
Starting on December 4th, all Xbox LIVE
members will receive a free system update with a host of new features and
enhancements. Included in this update will be the launch of the Xbox
Originals, which, for the first time ever, will enable consumers to
download and own full Xbox games , such as Halo®, Psychonauts™, Crimson
Skies®: High Road to Revenge™ and Fable® among others directly to
their Xbox 360. This new service will launch with an array of blockbuster
titles spanning the most popular genres from action-adventure to classic
role-playing games.
With no disc necessary, and at just
1,200 Microsoft Points per game, Xbox LIVE members can easily rediscover
these hit titles, or check out a game they missed the first time around.
This launch line-up is only the beginning as Xbox 360 owners can expect to
see a growing catalogue of Xbox games for download to own over the coming
year.
“In just five short years Xbox LIVE
has revolutionized the way friends and family have fun in the living room,”
said John Schappert, corporate vice president of LIVE, software and
services at Microsoft. “On its fifth birthday, Xbox LIVE truly is the
place for hanging out with friends and enjoying downloadable TV shows,
movies, videos, game add-ons and now downloadable Xbox games on demand.”
For more information about the
downloadable games available on Xbox LIVE, the evolution of Xbox LIVE or
the “Xbox LIVE is 5IVE” member rewards, visit www.Xbox.com.
About Xbox 360
Xbox 360 is a superior video game and
entertainment system delivering the best games, unique entertainment
features and a unified online gaming network that revolve around gamers.
Xbox 360 will have a portfolio of more
than 300 games and will be available in nearly 40 countries by the end of
2007. More information can be found online at http://www.xbox.com/xbox360.
About Xbox LIVE
Xbox LIVE is the first and most
comprehensive unified online entertainment network seamlessly integrated
throughout the entire console experience, making it easy for people to
find the friends, games and entertainment they want from the moment they
power on their Xbox 360 system. Xbox LIVE connects millions of members
across 26 countries to enjoy hundreds of multiplayer games, downloadable
games via Xbox LIVE Arcade, free and premium playable game demos, music
videos, TV shows and movies in the United States as well as new game
levels, characters and vehicles for all their favorite retail games. More
information can be found online at http://www.xbox.com/en-us/live.