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October 30, 2007
Sony has Buzz for PS2
Ratchet & Clank Return
Viva Pinata Party starts
Piñatas Wear Costumes All Year Round:
“Viva Piñata: Party Animals” for Xbox 360 Bursts Onto Store Shelves
Just in Time for Halloween!
“Viva Piñata: Party Animals”
features tricks and treats for everyone; new social party game takes place
on the Piñata Island set in an episode of the critically acclaimed
animated television series
Microsoft Game Studios and Krome Studios
present the latest party gaming extravaganza developed exclusively for
Xbox 360. Arriving in stores today, “Viva Piñata: Party Animals” is a
social party game for gamers age 6 and up that is set inside an episode of
the critically acclaimed 4Kids TV™ Viva Piñata animated series. The
game will be available starting October 30th in time for the Piñatas to
take in all the candy of Halloween. Regardless of whether you are young or
just young at heart, “Viva Piñata: Party Animals” is a real treat for
gamers of all ages.
In the game, players star as their
favorite candy-filled Piñata from the popular Saturday morning animated
series including Franklin Fizzlybear, Hudson Horstachio, Paulie Pretztail,
Fergy Fudgehog, and more as they compete for fame and fortune in more than
50 distinct mini-games and races across Piñata Island. “Viva Piñata:
Party Animals” features Xbox LIVE and local multi-player contests, like
Burps Ahoy!, where colorful Piñatas send burp fueled sailboats across
Lake Piñata! Nothing gets a hungry Piñata’s candiosity up like a
sweet, yummy caramel apple! Players bob their way through Caramel Apple
Gobble taking big bites out of the fruit, chewing it up as fast as they
can to be the first one done. Or they can squeal with delight as they
tackle Blown Away – a game of hot potato unlike any other – where they
trick their pals into being the one left holding an exploding jack o’
lantern.
Plus, gamers will love taking on the
persona of several new characters in the Piñata line-up who are ready to
get their game on:
Meet Hailey Horstachio: There’s only
one way to describe Piñata Island’s newest Spanish sensation, and that’s
“Muy Caliente!” No other Piñata combines style, glamour, and spice
quite like Hailey Horstachio. Always seen at the right party with the
right Piñata at the right time, Hailey’s already established herself as
a super-chic fashion icon who sets the trend every time she steps out on
the scene. She’s also a great athlete, and believes winning the
competition will launch her star into the stratosphere, while also
reminding another certain Horstachio that there’s a new horsey on the
block.
Meet Petunia Pretztail: Petunia may
appear soft-spoken and well-mannered, but buried beneath that quiet
exterior is a karate-chopping, kung-fu-fighting thrill seeker. Since
arriving on Piñata Island from the Land of the Rising Sun, Petunia’s
daredevil-may-care antics have made quite an impression, good and bad.
Some, like Paulie, find her aggressive streak a little intimidating, while
others, like BFF Hailey Horstachio, appreciate her live-in-the-moment
attitude towards life. Ultra-competitive and always up for a new
challenge, Petunia can’t wait to test her skills in the competition,
score a big victory, and hopefully score some one-on-one time with a
certain brainy Pretztail.
“Viva Piñata: Party Animals” is
designed especially with friends and family in mind. Gamers of all ages
can gather around the living room or connect from afar, with up to four
gamers playing simultaneously over Xbox LIVE or split screen. “Viva
Piñata: Party Animals” is the perfect game for parents looking for new
ways to connect with their kids or friends just looking to share a few
laughs. Pushing the advanced capabilities of the Xbox 360, “Viva
Piñata: Party Animals” brings the colorful world of Piñata Island to
life in way that’ll ensure that fans have a blast whether they’re
playing for a few hours or just a few minutes.
Made exclusively for Xbox 360, “Viva
Piñata: Party Animals” is available in stores now for $49.99 (U.S.) and
is rated E for Everyone.
The Perfect Accessory for Viva Piñata:
Party Animals Fans
Whether you’re shopping for Halloween
or for the Holidays, your favorite little goblin will love the new Xbox
360 Wireless Controllers in pink and blue. Adding a splash of color to the
holiday season for an estimated retail price of $49.99 (US), the whole
family can enjoy Xbox 360 with these bright additions to the “chill”
and black Xbox 360 Wireless Controllers.
The pink and blue Xbox 360 Wireless
Controllers will make a great gift this holiday season for newer gamers.
Delivering high-performance wireless gaming, the Xbox 360 Wireless
Controllers feature all of the convenience and flexibility of the
originals with a unique twist of personality. Now every member of the
family can have a favorite color controller to match their favorite animal
from “Viva Piñata: Party Animals.”
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 Microsoft Game Studios
Microsoft Game Studios is a leading
worldwide publisher and developer of games for the Xbox® and Xbox 360
video game systems, the Windows® operating system and online platforms.
Comprising a network of top developers, Microsoft Game Studios is
committed to creating innovative and diverse games for Windows
(http://www.microsoft.com/games), including such franchises as “Age of
Empires®,” “Flight Simulator” and “Zoo Tycoon®”; Xbox and Xbox
360 (http://www.xbox.com), including such games as “Gears of War” and
franchises such as “Halo,” “Fable®,” “Project Gotham Racing®”
and “Forza Motorsport®”; and MSN® Games (http://www.games.msn.com),
the official games channel for the MSN network and home to such hits as
“Bejeweled” and “Hexic®.”
About Krome Studios
Krome Studios is one of the leading
independent developers in the world and the largest game development
company in Australia and with more than 300 employees across three studios
- Brisbane, Melbourne and Adelaide. Founded in 1999, Krome Studios is best
known for developing the TY the Tasmanian Tiger™ series, which has sold
two million units worldwide and is the one of the best-selling Australian
games of all time. Krome Studios has shipped more than a dozen titles,
including the TY the Tasmanian Tiger™ series, The Legend of Spyro: A New
Beginning, King Arthur, and The Adventures of Jimmy Neutron Boy Genius™:
Jet Fusion.
About Microsoft
Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq “MSFT”)
is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help
people and businesses realize their full potential.
Award-Winning Franchise Makes Its
PLAYSTATION(R)3 Debut With Launch of Ratchet & Clank(R) Future: Tools
of Destruction(TM)
A Galactic Adventure Filled with
Explosive Mayhem Comes To Life in Epic Saga
FOSTER City, Calif., Oct. 30 /PRNewswire/
-- Sony Computer Entertainment America (SCEA) announced today the release
of Ratchet & Clank(R)Future: Tools of Destruction(TM) available
exclusively for the PLAYSTATION(R)3 (PS3(TM)) computer entertainment
system. Created by independent developer Insomniac Games, Ratchet &
Clank Future: Tools of Destruction delivers a true, next- generation
action-adventure game that is vibrant and diverse. With graphics
comparable to a high-quality computer graphic movie, complete with
bustling cities, gigantic enemies and giant boss battles, Ratchet &
Clank Future: Tools of Destruction presents a sophisticated, humorous
adventure for fans of all ages. Ratchet & Clank Future: Tools of
Destruction features unique, diverse gameplay and shines as a must-have
title for 2007. Following the release of its best-selling launch title,
Resistance: Fall of Man, Insomniac Games is one the first development
teams to embark on a second-generation exclusive PS3 title. Leveraging the
true processing power of the PS3 system, Insomniac Games has overhauled
its proprietary PS3 engine technology, making the physics engine four
times faster than that of Resistance, to create the most visceral Ratchet
& Clank universe yet, overflowing with exotic creatures and flying
vehicles all at sixty frames per second.
"Ratchet & Clank Future: Tools
of Destruction was the team's opportunity to not only bring back what
players have known and loved about the franchise, but a chance to create
an experience that redefines itself on the PS3 system," said Brian
Allgeier, creative director, Insomniac Games. "As the biggest game
Insomniac has ever produced, Ratchet & Clank Future expands its action
adventure roots into new territories that will truly evoke a sense of
mystery, adventure, variety and spectacle around every turn." Players
join Ratchet, the last-known Lombax, on his quest to find the answers of
his mysterious past and Lombax origins. Unfortunately for Ratchet, Emperor
Percival Tachyon is equally interested. The tyrant of an ancient race of
evil aliens called Cragmites, Tachyon has an age-old grudge and is bent on
wiping Ratchet off the universe. As Tachyon ambushes Ratchet and Clank in
their home galaxy, they realize they need to escape quickly and prevent
the galaxy's destruction. Along the way, they embark upon an adventure
bigger than any they've experienced, one that will not only unravel the
mystery of the Lombaxes, but also test the limits of their friendship.
Combining Ratchet & Clank's adventure roots with an epic storyline and
immersive gameplay, Ratchet & Clank Future: Tools of Destruction draws
players into a vast, new galaxy more interactive than ever before. Players
will discover all-new vast worlds such as a majestic cloud city and a
space-age amusement park. Along the way they will encounter an entirely
new cast of colorful characters (and some old favorites) as well as the
introduction of a variety of new alien races and life forms. Having a
variety of tangible weapons has always been a focus of the Ratchet &
Clank franchise. In Ratchet & Clank Future: Tools of Destruction,
players will have access to a fully stocked arsenal of all-new weapons
such as the Plasma Beasts and Tornado Launcher, which uses SIXAXIS(TM)
wireless controller to direct tornadoes that suck up enemies and whip them
around with debris. All weapons can be upgraded and customized with a new
system that provides greater power and flexibility. Players can also
utilize Ratchet's new supply of consumable "on-demand" combat
devices, such as the Groovitron, which causes enemies to dance
uncontrollably to disco music. In addition, gadget gameplay returns as
Ratchet and Clank will have more gadgets at their disposal to help them
bounce, fly, evade and defy gravity. SCEA will support Ratchet & Clank
Future: Tools of Destruction with a blockbuster multimillion dollar
marketing campaign. This will include aggressive national television,
print, online and viral advertising campaigns, full promotional support,
dedicated point-of-purchase displays and merchandising support,
broad-based public relations support and immersive and interactive
website. The independent Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) has
rated Ratchet & Clank Future: Tools of Destruction E10+ .For more
information about the ESRB visit www.esrb.org.
About Sony Computer Entertainment
America Inc. Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. continues to
redefine the entertainment lifestyle with its PlayStation(R) and PS one(R)
game consoles, the PlayStation(R)2 computer entertainment system, the
PSP(R) (PlayStation(R)Portable) handheld entertainment system, and the
ground-breaking PLAYSTATION(R)3 (PS3(TM)) computer entertainment system.
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 the PS one game console,
the PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system, the PSP system and the
PS3 system 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. Visit us on the Web at http://www.us.playstation.com
PlayStation(R)2 Brings the Game Show
Experience and Kid-Friendly Mini-Game Fun Into Your Living Room With Buzz!
(TM) the Mega Quiz and Buzz! (TM) Junior Jungle Party
New Party Games Deliver Social Gaming
Entertainment for the Whole Family This Holiday Season
FOSTER CITY, Calif., Oct. 30 /PRNewswire/
-- Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. (SCEA) announced today the
release of Buzz! (TM) The Mega Quiz and Buzz! (TM) Junior Jungle Party,
available exclusively for the PlayStation(R)2 computer entertainment
system. Regardless of gameplay ability, Buzz! The Mega Quiz and Buzz!
Junior Jungle Party provide a social gaming experience for gamers and
non-gamers alike as the games utilize the pick-up and play Buzz! buzzer
peripherals instead of a game controller. (Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20000510/SFW104-a)
Ideal for holiday gatherings with friends and family, Buzz! The Mega Quiz
is the ultimate trivia game with over 5000 questions across a variety of
topics and genres, including celebrities, music, sports, film, history,
science and more. Buzz! The Mega Quiz features a TV style game show
experience delivered live in your living room where up to eight players
compete in a wide variety of fun, engaging trivia. With 14 wild and wacky
contestants to choose from along with customizable options such as unique
buzzer sounds and character costumes, players can challenge one another in
five different gameplay modes (Multiplayer, Single, Team, Quickfire, Quiz
Master).
The Buzz! franchise's kid-friendly
Buzz! Junior Jungle Party, will appeal to children, parents and
grandparents as it features over 25 humorous and entertaining mini-games
for up to four players. Loosely based upon childhood favorites like hot
potato and red light green light, Buzz! Junior Jungle Party allows the
entire family to get involved in this game of hijinks and humour with an
experience enhanced by a unique jungle environment, hilarious characters
and solid gameplay that puts their skills to the test. Players looking for
an extra fun challenge with friends can choose from their favorite games
to develop short, medium, long or custom tournaments. Buzz! The Mega Quiz
and Buzz! Junior Jungle Party both require the buzzers to play and will be
available as a bundled version that includes the buzzers and as a
standalone version offered at a lower price.
"Already an extremely successful
franchise in Europe with close to six million units sold, the introduction
of the Buzz! franchise to the North American market demonstrates our
continued commitment to expanding our social gaming catalogue on
PlayStation 2 and broadening our audience by reaching casual gamers,
females, and families," said Jeff Reese, director, software
marketing, SCEA. "With its unique buzzer controller, accessible
content and social engaging gameplay, Buzz! elevates social entertainment
and family fun to a whole new level this holiday season." SCEA will
support Buzz! The Mega Quiz and Buzz! Junior Jungle Party with a national
television, print and online advertising campaign, full promotional
support including in-store demonstrations in Best Buy's Social Gaming
Area, dedicated point-of-purchase displays and merchandising support,
broad-based public relations support, and an immersive and interactive
Buzz! brand Web site at http://www.buzz-games.com. Buzz! will be part of
an innovative national Buzz! Across America promotional tour featuring the
Buzz! crew which are real-life, walking trial kiosks. Running from October
2007 through March 2008, the tour will visit high-traffic areas in 10
major markets across the country including bars, street fairs, movie
theatres, college campuses and more. College sororities and fraternities
also will be able test out their trivia wits with Buzz! The Mega Quiz at
over 45 SCEA-sponsored Greek events across the country. The independent
Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) has rated Buzz! The Mega Quiz
and Buzz! Junior Jungle Party "E-10+" for "Everyone 10 and
older." For more information about the ESRB visit www.esrb.org.
About Sony Computer Entertainment
America Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. continues to redefine the
entertainment lifestyle with its PlayStation(R) and PS one(R) game
console, the PlayStation(R)2 computer entertainment system, the PSP(R) (PlayStation(R)Portable)
handheld entertainment system, the ground-breaking PLAYSTATION(R)3
(PS3(TM)) computer entertainment system and its online and network
services the PLAYSTATION(R)Network and PLAYSTATION(R)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 the PS one game console, the
PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system and the PSP system 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.
"PlayStation",
"PLAYSTATION", "PSP" and "PS One" are
registered trademarks and "PS3" is a trademark of Sony Computer
Entertainment Inc. Visit us on the Web at www.us.playstation.com.
> October 29, 2007
Singstar PS2 on sale
Mutant Storm hits Xbox Live
Doritos' creator games revealed
DORITOS REVEALS PLAYABLE BETA
VERSIONS OF FIRST-EVER CONSUMER CREATED XBOX LIVE ARCADE GAMES
Fan Votes Will Determine Winner To Be
Announced On November 19, 2007
PLANO, Texas (October 29, 2007) —
Today, the Doritos brand unveiled the five playable Xbox LIVE® Arcade
game demos – formally known as betas, in this early stage –conceptualized
by each finalist in the Doritos Unlock Xbox challenge. This first-of-its
kind opportunity invited fans in the United States to think of an Xbox
LIVE Arcade game idea that brings to life the bold spirit of the Doritos
brand. Now through November 18, 2007, fans can play each beta game at
www.snackstrongproductions.com and vote for the one they want to be
developed into a full scale Xbox LIVE Arcade game for the Xbox 360™
video game and entertainment console. After voting closes, fans can
continue to play each beta game online.
While much more detail and depth will
come with the development of the winning concept, online beta versions
give gaming fans everywhere the opportunity to get an early glimpse into
the tone, look and feel of the five finalists’ visions. Consumer votes
will determine the winner who will go on to have their Xbox LIVE Arcade
game brought to life from the ground up by Xbox 360 and renowned video
game development studio NinjaBee, a subdivision of Wahoo Studios. NinjaBee
has a track record of publishing quality games for the Xbox LIVE
community, including such hits as Cloning Clyde, Outpost Kaloki X and Band
of Bugs.
Once released in summer 2008, fans in
North America will be able to download and play the fully-developed
first-ever consumer-created Xbox LIVE Arcade game for free.
“The passion and excitement our fans
exuded throughout this collaborative process is just what Doritos
empowerment is all about,” said Ann Mukherjee, group vice president,
marketing, Frito-Lay. “We gave our finalists access to game developers
to build the betas, but it was their own dedication and creativity that
brought each game to life. We can’t wait for gaming fans everywhere to
start playing the beta games so they can experience the fun for
themselves."
Between August 20, 2007 and October 26,
2007, the finalists worked hand in hand with a team of professional
developers to transform their creative visions from paper to playable
betas that embody their intended tone, appearance and experience, at this
early creative phase. From the animation and music to the plot lines and
characters, each beta game holds true to its creator’s bold and intense
vision.
The five finalists (in alphabetical
order) and their game concept if voted the winner are:
1. “Doritos Dash of Destruction” by
Mike Borland of Sewickley, PA
In “Doritos Dash of Destruction,”
players can choose to control one of two characters. Either a hungry T-Rex
chasing a delivery truck loaded with crunchy Doritos tortilla chips or the
delivery truck driver, racing to escape the clutches of the T-Rex. As the
chase begins havoc ensues as the lumbering dino barrels through the
completely destructible city resulting in an intense game of
cat-and-mouse.
2. “Doritos Presents UDC: Ultimate
Dodgeball Champions” by Devan Moore of Panama City, FL
In this futuristic dodgeball game,
inspired by Devan’s favorite childhood game and the intensity of
Doritos, players start by creating a customized team from a handful of
colorful characters. Then, using special “power up” features to create
fire balls, teams go at it in futuristic stadiums and compete for ultimate
dodgeball dominance.
3. “Monkeys from Mt. Doritos” by
Juanito Lagasco, of Algonquin, IL
In this quick-play, high-fun,
retro-style game, one or more people play as monkeys that collect Doritos
chips exploding out of Mt. Doritos. The more Doritos players collect, the
more points they earn and the closer they get to winning. But, watch out
as fellow monkeys and lurking monsters want to steal your prized Doritos
chips.
4. “PB’s Quest for Flavor” by
Jeremy Mattsen of Colorado Springs, CO
In “PB’s Quest for Flavor,” PB -
the game’s pill bug hero - goes on his quest for the perfect chip
flavor. Throughout the game, favorite Doritos flavors are introduced as
weapons giving PB unique abilities. With the strength and power of
Doritos, players guide PB through a household of obstacles and enemies to
successfully complete his quest.
5. “Rythum Racing” by Kenneth Parker
of Warner Robins, GA
In this original racing game, players
turn up the volume in game play as they import song files and use music to
“drive” the game. Players race around the equalizer race track, where
sounds, beats and rhythms will alter the track. Deep bass sounds for
example might cause the race track to ripple, throwing the race cars up in
the air while other elements of the music generate power-ups.
In addition to playing and voting on the
beta games, between now and November 18, 2007 fans can also get in the
game by visiting www.snackstrongproductions.com for a chance to instantly
win great prize packages including Xbox 360 consoles, Xbox LIVE Gold
subscriptions and more. Details, including rules, will be available on the
site during the promotion period.
Frito-Lay North America is the $10
billion convenient foods division of PepsiCo, which is headquartered in
Purchase, NY. In addition to Frito-Lay, PepsiCo divisions include
Pepsi-Cola, Quaker Foods, Gatorade and Tropicana.
Get Your Freak On With Xbox LIVE
Arcade This Week
“Mutant Storm Empire” launches
Wednesday — plus a number of other titles are coming up.
You may be too old to go
trick-or-treating, but you’re never too old to game. October has been a
month of fun treats on Xbox LIVE Arcade, and there’s plenty to get
excited about in the coming weeks. Here’s a sneak peek at this week’s
freaky title, as well as several additional games that are coming to Xbox
LIVE Arcade in the next few weeks.
Just in time for Halloween, “Mutant
Storm Empire” is packed with sci-fi action as players crush gangs of
robots, smash swarms of UFOs and demolish massive enemy bosses. “Mutant
Storm Empire,” the latest shooter from PomPom games and the sequel to
“Mutant Storm Reloaded,” features 16 unique levels spread over four
richly detailed and varied worlds. The game offers a seamless experience
where players move from room to room without having to enter a loading
screen, in addition to offline co-op and multiplayer LIVE support for two
people.
“Mutant Storm Empire” will be
available worldwide for 800 Microsoft Points Wednesday, October 31, 2007,
at 9 a.m. GMT (2 a.m. PDT).
In the coming weeks, look out for the
following titles:
· “N+”(Slick Entertainment and
Metanet Software) – Play as an acrobatic ninja in this addictive
action-puzzle platformer. N+ features inadvertently homicidal robots,
stylish graphics, a level editor and intense multiplayer awesomeness.
· “Screwjumper!” (THQ) – Players
take the plunge in “Screwjumper!” and free-fall into the depths of the
chaotic underworld as a Screwjumper, driving aliens back to their home
world by destroying their precious mining equipment.
· “SHREK-N-ROLL™” (Activision)
– Gamers join “Shrek®,” “Fiona,” “Donkey,” “Puss in Boots”
and 20 other twisted fairy tale friends in this hilarious puzzle game
designed for ogres of all ages.
· “SpongeBob SquarePants: Underpants
Slam™” (Nickelodeon and THQ) – In this quick and fun game, players
search the kitchen of the Krusty Krab, the Flying Dutchman’s ship and
the Armoury of Atlantis for 99 pairs of underpants.
· “Switchball” (Sierra Online) –
Based on real-world physics, “Switchball” is an intricate puzzle game
set in a stunning 3-D world where players control an ever-changing ball
along a narrow, winding course suspended in midair.
· “Undertow” (Chair Entertainment
Group) – This fast-paced action-shooter sends gamers underwater as they
battle up to 16 players for control of the oceans! Players race to upgrade
their units as they engage in non-stop conquest-style battles through
multiple levels of combat action with some of the most stunning graphics
ever seen in an Xbox LIVE Arcade title.
· “Word Puzzle” (InterServ
International) – The classic pen-and-paper word search game is brought
to a new level of excitement on Xbox LIVE Arcade, complete with combos,
high-score achievements and the ability to compete against others online.
More than 100 games will be available on
Xbox LIVE Arcade by year’s end, including dozens of original
intellectual properties and classic titles updated for this generation.
Specific game information surrounding each title will be available on
http://www.xbox.com in the coming weeks.
About Xbox LIVE Arcade
Xbox LIVE Arcade on Xbox 360 is the
premier destination for digitally distributed high-definition games. Xbox
LIVE Arcade is a fast-growing phenomenon with a diverse library of
original development and classic titles from the world’s best
independent and established developers and publishers. With a dynamically
updated library and free trials for every title, Xbox LIVE Arcade makes it
easy for every type of gamer — from casual to hard-core — to get
instantly immersed in the fun. Xbox LIVE Arcade also lets friends connect
and play these incredible games either from the same room or from around
the world via the Xbox LIVE online entertainment network. More information
can be found online at http://www.xbox.com/en-us/games/livearcade.
About Microsoft
Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq “MSFT”)
is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help
people and businesses realize their full potential.
Sony announces that the
limited-edition SingStar PlayStation 2 Pack will be available at select
retailers starting this weekend (Oct. 27-28) for $149.99
The SingStar pack includes a limited-edition Ceramic White PlayStation 2
computer entertainment system, SingStar™ Pop (the second release in the
multi-million selling SingStar™ franchise), and two high-quality
microphones. Full nationwide availability of the SingStar PlayStation 2
Pack is scheduled for November 4, in time for the holiday shopping season
just around the corner.
At such an attractive price point, this
new limited-edition bundle makes social gaming more affordable than ever,
and is the perfect companion to holiday get-togethers with friends and
family. SingStar Pop puts players center stage in their living rooms with
their favorite artists, singing duets and one-on-one battles, and even
singing with up to eight players in a “Pass-the-Mic” party game.
SingStar Pop also is available separately as a standalone game, with or
without microphones.
Players who want to rock the mic on even
more songs can check out three additional SingStar titles currently
available in North America as standalone games: SingStar™ Rocks!,
SingStar™ Amped, and SingStar™ 80’s.
SingStar, along with Buzz!, have proven
to be successful social gaming franchises for the PlayStation 2 platform,
and this new bundle delivers great value, making it easier for first-time
and casual gamers in particular to experience social gaming entertainment.
PlayStation 2, celebrating its seventh
anniversary today, continues to be the best-selling gaming system on the
market with more than 120 million units shipped worldwide. A further 12
million PlayStation 2 units are expected to be sold worldwide by the end
of March 2008. With more than 160 new games expected in North America
throughout the holidays and by the end of March 2008 – including Guitar
Hero™ Encore: Rock the 80s™, Rock Band, Buzz!™ The Mega Quiz and
Buzz!™ Junior: Jungle Party – as well as a back catalogue of over
1,400 games, the new limited-edition SingStar PlayStation 2 Pack makes for
an extremely compelling package for the entire family.
> October 24, 2007
Eye on Playstation 3
Darkness Within trailer
Checkmate for DS, PC
DARKNESS WITHIN: In Pursuit of
Loath Nolder Official Trailer Released for Horror Adventure Game Inspired
by H.P. Lovecraft
Toronto, Canada -- Oct 24, 2007 --
Leading publisher Lighthouse Interactive and developer Zoetrope
Interactive today released a trailer for their psychological horror
Adventure game, Darkness Within: In Pursuit of Loath Nolder. Scheduled to
release in October 2007 on the PC, this chilling Adventure created true to
the works of H.P. Lovecraft, successfully combines haunting themes such as
the occult, nightmares and paranormal events. The trailer features the
sinister and intriguing surroundings of the Wellsmoth Mental Institution,
giving players a peek into the disturbing darkness and wicked paths of the
human mind. This Windows® Vista(tm) compatible game on CD-ROM is set to
bring the Horror Adventure genre to new heights.
GAME SUMMARY: As police detective Howard
E. Loreid, players are tasked to solve the murder of Clark Field, a
wealthy man involved in the occult. At the top of your list of suspects is
Loath Nolder; a highly respected private investigator who mysteriously
abandoned his last case for reasons unknown. Rumor had it that he ventured
to several exotic places around the world learning from tribe shamans and
sorcerers. It remains a great mystery as to why Loath Nolder disappeared
so suddenly, resurfacing five years later and resuming his investigations
just as abruptly as he had left them. Why does this venerated P.I. now sit
on the other side of the law? Your seemingly routine investigation takes a
dramatic twist as strange and terrifying happenings begin to plague your
psyche. You experience lucid horrifying dreams and are tormented by
paranormal happenings. Why do days pass instead of hours when you sleep?
What's real and what's not? As you pursue fugitive murder suspect Loath
Nolder, you must face dire truths hidden deep within a haunting darkness
and the recesses of your mind.
FEATURES: Built-in Hint System with 3
Difficulty Levels - Players can choose to play in Standard, Detective or
Senior Detective modes. Unique Inventory System - Utilizing the 'thinking
screen' allows players to collect and examine items, and thoughts. Clues
can also be researched, combined or used. Dynamic Puzzles and Features -
Traditional adventure game puzzles are complimented by deciphering dreams
and underlining excerpts in documents to garner critical clues. Enhanced
Gameplay Experience - The proprietary game engine enables compelling
special effects, stunning visuals, and dynamic lighting and shading, in a
panoramic first person game environment. Eerie Gameplay Atmosphere - An
immersive experience is created by a fascinating story, chilling real-time
cut scenes, and haunting music.
About Zoetrope Interactive
Leading game development company
Zoetrope Interactive is located in Istanbul, Turkey. The team is dedicated
to create quality games in which gamers will enjoy a unique gaming
experience. Zoetrope currently focuses on their mysterious and suspenseful
psychological thriller game Darkness Within: In Pursuit of Loath Nolder.
www.zoetropeint.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
Sony Computer Entertainment
America Inc. today announced the release of PLAYSTATION®Eye, EyeCreat and
THE EYE OF JUDGMENT available exclusively for PLAYSTATION®3 (PS3)
computer entertainment system.
PLAYSTATION Eye is set to revolutionize
the experience of both interactive gaming and online communication on
PLAYSTATION Network. Building on the revolutionary EyeToy® USB camera for
PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, the sophistication of
PLAYSTATION Eye naturally complements the advanced features and
capabilities of the PS3 system. The PLAYSTATION Eye offers a four
microphone array, featuring multidirectional voice location tracking,
enhanced echo canceling and background noise suppression, which allows for
clear audio chat in even the noisiest environments. The PLAYSTATION Eye
also features a frame rate of up to 120 frames per second, allowing for
super-smooth video and sophisticated low light operations. THE EYE OF
JUDGMENT will be bundled with PLAYSTATION Eye and will also be sold
separately.
In addition, SCEA will make EyeCreate
editing software available for free download via PLAYSTATION Network.
EyeCreate is a video capturing and editing program exclusive to
PLAYSTATION 3 and PLAYSTATION Eye. EyeCreate also enables users to capture
video and audio clips, which can be exported to the PS3 system's hard
drive, and to use a range of different capturing modes, including
stop-motion and time-lapse. Please let me know if you have any questions
or need more information.
UBISOFT ANNOUNCES CHESSMASTER: THE
ART OF LEARNING HAS SHIPPED TO STORE SHELVES AND CHESSMASTER: GRANDMASTER
EDITION HAS GONE GOLD
The World's Most Popular Board Game
Available Soon on Nintendo DS and Windows PC
Assets can be downloaded here: http://files.us.ubisoft.com/CM_assets_10.23
SAN FRANCISCO – October 23, 2007 –
Today, Ubisoft announced that Chessmaster®: The Art of Learning for the
Nintendo DS(TM) system has shipped to store shelves and that Chessmaster®:
Grandmaster Edition for Windows® PC has gone gold (shipping Oct. 30). In
both games, Josh Waitzkin, International Master and eight-time National
Chess Champion, coaches players to grasp the basic fundamentals of chess
and to master the game through exciting courses and tutorials taken
directly from his groundbreaking book, The Art of Learning (Free Press).
Players can then practice their newly developed skills in single-player
mode or challenge their friends to a fun-spirited competition via LAN or
Internet.
Features include:
• Guidance from champion Josh Waitzkin:
Using the basics from his book The Art of Learning, Josh puts players in
his shoes during some of the most riveting moments of his career. He then
walks them through the classics, introducing beginners to the fundamentals
of the game and providing revealing commentary about the road to mastery.
• Multiplayer mode: Players can battle
each other using the wireless option on the DS with a variety of games
such as Progressive Chess and Los Alamos Chess. In the PC version, there
are 12 multiplayer options, including Limited Shuffle and Pocket Knight.
• Original DS mini-games: Each
mini-game is packed with its own music, sound effects, a high-score record
and 20 levels of gameplay. Players can look forward to: Masterpiece, in
which players complete the picture using chess pieces to reveal the hidden
squares; Pawn Charge, where players need to advance pawns across the board
and avoid capture; and Chain Reaction, which requires that three pieces of
the same kind be placed so that their paths of movement connect.
• Rated play: Players have the chance
to test their skills against a variety of opponents and establish their
ELO ratings.
Chessmaster: The Art of Learning for the
Nintendo DS is rated "E” for everyone and has a MSRP of $39.99.
Chessmaster: Grandmaster Edition for Windows PC is also rated "E”
for everyone and has a MSRP of $29.99. Chessmaster: Grandmaster Edition is
shipping to store shelves on Oct. 30.
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 or www.chessmaster.com.
© 2007 Ubisoft Entertainment. All
Rights Reserved. Chessmaster, Ubisoft, Ubi.com, and the Ubisoft logo are
trademarks of Ubisoft Entertainment in the U.S. and/or other countries.
Portions of Chessmaster Academy instructional content, including those
based on The Art of Learning, © 2007 Josh Waitzkin LLC. TM, ® and
Nintendo DS are trademarks of Nintendo. © 2004 Nintendo.
> October 22, 2007
Haze gets Korn track
Gold for Mass Effect
Spacefarers Rejoice! "Mass
Effect" Goes Gold, Limited Collector's Edition and Exclusive
Pre-Order Bonus Disc Unveiled
Fans of this year’s hottest RPG -
available exclusively on Xbox 360 - can get their hands on unique and
collectible content by pre-ordering ”Mass Effect” at participating
U.S. retailers
Microsoft Game Studios and BioWare Corp.
announced today that the highly anticipated action role-playing game (RPG)
“Mass Effect” has gone gold, and will be offered in a limited
collector’s edition. Additionally, an exclusive bonus disc will be
offered to consumers who pre-order the game. The bonus disc is available
at participating U.S. retailers while supplies last.
The limited collector’s edition will
be offered through participating retailers, and will include the following
bonus materials:
· A “Mass Effect” fiction book
titled “Galactic Codex: Essentials”
o A 36-page guide to the “Mass Effect”
universe, including a Citadel timeline and a guide to all non-human races,
biotics and the key locations in the Perseus arm of the galaxy
· An additional “Mass Effect” art
book titled “A Future Imagined”
o A 36-page collection of BioWare’s
concept art for the game
· A bonus DVD of exclusive “Mass
Effect” background material and additional content including:
o “The Vision of “Mass Effect”
documentary
o “The Making of “Mass Effect”
documentary
o “Interactive Storytelling”
documentary
o “Inside BioWare” documentary
o 18 “Mass Effect” themed gamer pics
(three unique sets of six)
o 16 dashboard themes (four unique sets
of four)
o Ten songs from the “Mass Effect”
soundtrack
o Five historical “Mass Effect”
trailers from X05 through E3 2007 and the official TV trailer
o A demo for “Blue Dragon” and
videos for “Lost Odyssey,” “Halo 3” and “Halo Wars”
o Design galleries featuring 600 concept
images fully commented by the Art Directors
The exclusive bonus disc will be offered
to consumers who pre-order either edition of the game at participating
retailers and will include the following contents:
· A short documentary on DVD
introducing the game
· 12 “Mass Effect” themed gamer
pics (two unique sets of six)
· Eight dashboard themes (two unique
sets of four)
· Three songs from the “Mass Effect”
soundtrack on a CD
· Four historical “Mass Effect”
trailers from X05 through E3 2007 on DVD
· A demo for “Blue Dragon” and
videos for “Lost Odyssey,” “Halo 3” and “Halo Wars”
From the creators of the
critically-acclaimed “Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic” and “Jade
Empire” comes an epic space saga exclusively for the Xbox 360 that spans
the entire galaxy. Combining a rich and engaging narrative with intense
sci-fi tactical combat, “Mass Effect” features an immersive and
cinematic gameplay experience rarely seen before in video games.
“Mass Effect” will have an estimated
retail price of $59.99, and the limited collector’s edition will have an
estimated retail price of $69.99. “Mass Effect” is rated “M” for
“Mature” by the ESRB. For more information, visit www.masseffect.com.
About BioWare
BioWare Corp. is an electronic
entertainment company which develops computer, console, handheld and
online video games focused on rich stories and memorable characters. Since
1995, BioWare has created some of the world's best-selling titles
including the award-winning Baldur's Gate™ and Neverwinter Nights™
series, as well as the 2003 Game of the Year, Star Wars®: Knights of the
Old Republic™. Original BioWare-created IPs include the 2005 RPG of the
Year, Jade Empire™, with next-generation titles Mass Effect™ and
Dragon Age™ currently in development. Mass Effect will ship to retailers
globally in November, 2007. The game has received more than 50 awards,
including the 2007 Game Critics Awards for “Best Console Game” and “Best
RPG” at the Electronic Entertainment Expo. With studios in Edmonton,
Canada, and Austin, Texas, BioWare is also hard at work on a new title for
the Nintendo DS™ based on Sonic the Hedgehog, as well as several
unannounced projects including a massively multiplayer online game. For
more information on BioWare, visit www.bioware.com.
*BioWare, BioWare Corp., Mass Effect,
Dragon Age and Jade Empire are trademarks or registered trademarks owned
by BioWare Corp. in the U.S. and other countries. All other trademarks and
copyrights are the property of their respective owners. All rights
reserved.
About Microsoft Game Studios
Microsoft Game Studios is a leading
worldwide publisher and developer of games for the Xbox® and Xbox 360
video game systems, the Windows® operating system and online platforms.
Comprising a network of top developers, Microsoft Game Studios is
committed to creating innovative and diverse games for Windows
(http://www.microsoft.com/games), including such franchises as “Age of
Empires®,” “Flight Simulator” and “Zoo Tycoon®”; Xbox and Xbox
360 (http://www.xbox.com), including such games as “Gears of War” and
franchises such as “Halo,” “Fable®,” “Project Gotham Racing®”
and “Forza Motorsport®”; and MSN® Games (http://www.games.msn.com),
the official games channel for the MSN network and home to such hits as
“Bejeweled” and “Hexic®.”
KORN TO RELEASE ORIGINAL SONG FOR
UBISOFT'S HAZE(TM) VIDEO GAME
San Francisco – October 22, 2007 –
Today, Ubisoft, one of the world's largest video game publishers,
announced that the multi-platinum selling ground-breaking hard rock band
Korn has written and recorded an original song inspired by Ubisoft's
upcoming Haze(TM) video game. The song will be launched to radio and video
in November 2007, to coincide with the launch of the Haze video game. The
single, entitled "Haze”, will be available for purchase via online
music download sites.
Korn, who released their debut in 1994,
has sold more than 30 million records worldwide, releasing seven
consecutive multi-platinum selling albums. Their latest untitled album was
released in July of this year, debuting at #2 on the US album charts and
#3 on the European album charts. Lead singer Jonathan Davis has often
avowed a love of video games, including games from Ubisoft like Tom
Clancy's Rainbow Six® Vegas and Tom Clancy's Ghost Recon Advanced
Warfighter® 2.
"Gaming for me is a religion and
Haze is the shit!” said Jonathan Davis. "I had to come up with a
track that can hit up that kind of rush I get from the game and I think we
really rocked it!!"
The deal with Korn is a first for
Ubisoft and marks a new strategy of creative partnership with different
figures in the music industry. "This partnership with Korn is
original in the video game industry in that the song will be released and
promoted as a full-fledged single, and not just as a download with the
video game,” stated Christian Salomon, vice president of worldwide
licensing at Ubisoft. "It is a testament to the synergy possibilities
between music and video games, which often share the same audience.”
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.
© 2006 Ubisoft Entertainment SA and
Free Radical Design Limited. All Rights Reserved. Haze is a trademark of
Ubisoft Entertainment and Free Radical Design. Free Radical Design and its
associated logo are trademarks of Free Radical Design Limited. Ubisoft and
the Ubisoft logo are registered trademarks of Ubisoft Entertainment SA.
Developed by Free Radical Design Limited.Microsoft, 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, "PLAYSTATION” are registered trademarks
of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.
© 2007 Ubisoft Entertainment. All
Rights Reserved. Ghost Recon, Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter, the Soldier
Icon, Ubisoft, Ubi.com and the Ubisoft logo are trademarks of Ubisoft
Entertainment in the US and/or other countries.
© 2006 Ubisoft Entertainment. All
Rights Reserved. Persistent Elite Creation, Ubisoft, the Ubisoft logo,
Ubi.com and the Soldier Icon are trademarks of Ubisoft Entertainment in
the U.S. and/or other countries. Rainbow Six, Red Storm and 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.