Friday, May 29, 2009

Koei - E3 Linup announced - Press Release

Koei have announced that at E3 the recently announced Trinity: Souls Of Zill O'll will be shown, as well as Warriors: Legends of Troy, Monster Racers and Warriors Orochi 2.


Press Release

Burlingame, CA, May 29, 2009 -- KOEI, recognized worldwide as the premier brand of strategy and action games, today announced its lineup of titles that will be showcased at the 2009 Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3), June 2-4 in Los Angeles. Among the games to be shown, the company will unveil two new titles at the Los Angeles Convention Center. This will be the first time in KOEI’s history that the company publicly debuts new titles outside of Japan.

For over 30 years and counting, from classic games rich with history to world-renowned action mega-hits, KOEI consistently delivers the best in entertainment. This year will be no exception. In fact, we’re raising the bar,” said Amos Ip, senior vice president of KOEI Corporation. “At E3, KOEI promises an explosive array of action and role-playing games that will keep gamers on the edge of their seats.”

Gamers can follow @koeicorp on twitter for up-to-the minute news and behind-the-scenes happenings from the KOEI booth, E3 events and more.

The KOEI booth will be located in the South Hall #822. KOEI’s exciting portfolio of console and handheld games includes:

TRINITY: Souls of Zill O’ll™ - For years, Omega Force has transcended the action genre to create one of video gaming’s most legendary franchises. Now they will unleash their imaginations on the realm of fantasy with the upcoming TRINITY: Souls of Zill O’ll.

Warriors: Legends of Troy™ - Three thousand years ago, a poet sang of heroes strong enough to stand alone against an army. For love, they sailed the world. For family, they made the greatest sacrifices. For honor, they stood and faced the will of gods, and fought a war which shook the earth…

Monster Racers™ - Monster Racers for the Nintendo DS™ will take you on a quest around the globe in search of monsters to train, nurture, and race. For the first time in the genre, your skill in controlling your monster will be a key factor to winning each challenge. Races are filled with obstacles that will test your skills in controlling speed, jumping ability, and reaction time. By combining real-time racing, platform-style action, and role-playing with the fun of monster collecting, KOEI is bringing to life a colorful and unforgettable world where everyone can be a champion. This product is rated “E” (Everyone) by the ESRB.

WARRIORS OROCHI®2 - The best-selling DYNASTY WARRIORS® and SAMURAI WARRIORS® crossover comes to the PSP®(PlayStation® Portable) system with continuing storylines. WARRIORS OROCHI 2 features three new game modes: Dream, VS and Survival, plus VS mode “Tag Team”-style matches that pit fighters in deadly head-to-head combat! New features for the PSP include 96 playable characters, 2-Player VS and Co-op and new scenarios. This game is rated "T" (Teen – Mild Suggestive Themes, Violence) by the ESRB.

About KOEI Corporation
Based in Burlingame, California, KOEI Corporation established operations in 1988 as the North American subsidiary of KOEI Co., Ltd. of Japan. KOEI is respected worldwide as the premier brand of strategy and simulation games, and is the innovator of the Tactical Action genre. The company's Warriors series of games have generated a combined 18 million units in global sales.

KOEI develops, publishes, and distributes interactive software for video game systems and personal computers. For fiscal 2008, KOEI posted worldwide revenues of $286 million. KOEI maintains operations in Japan, the U.S., the UK, Canada, China, Korea, Taiwan, Singapore and Lithuania. More information about KOEI and its products can be found atwww.koei.com.

TRINITY Souls of Zill O'll, Warriors: Legends of Troy, Monster Racers, WARRIORS OROCHI, DYNASTY WARRIORS, SAMURAI WARRIORS, and the KOEI logo are registered trademarks or trademarks of KOEI Co., Ltd. ©2009 KOEI Co., Ltd. All rights reserved. “PlayStation”, “PS” Family logo and “PSP” are registered trademarks of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. Memory Stick Duo™ may be required (sold separately) for certain functionality. Nintendo DS is a trademark of Nintendo. ©2004 Nintendo. The ratings icon is a trademark of the Entertainment Software Association. All other trademarks are properties of their respective owners.

Press Release ©2009 KOEI Co., Ltd.

Contact:
Jarik R. Sikat
KOEI Corporation
(650) 692-9080 ext. 230
sikat@koei.com

Sony Online Entertainment - Free Realms teams up with The Dares to create a Theme Song. In Game Performance Coming. - Press Release

Sony Online Entertainment have teamed up with The Dares to create a theme song for Free Realms. The Dares will perform live In Free Realms and at E3 on Tuesday June 2nd



Press Release

Behind-The-Scenes Video of Up-and-Coming Pop/Punk Band, The Dares, Recording Free Realms Theme Song Now Available for Download

The Dares will Perform Live at Sony Online Entertainment's E3 Booth and Simultaneously in Free Realms on Tuesday, June 2 at 4pm



Activision - Wolfenstein 3D coming to PSN and XBLA from June 3rd - Press Release

Activisioon have announced that the classic game Wolfenstein 3D is coming to the PSN and XBLA. The game is out on the XBLA on June 3rd, PSN for June 4th.

Press Release

SANTA MONICA, Calif., May 29, 2009 /PRNewswire-FirstCall via COMTEX News Network/ -- Activision Publishing (Nasdaq: ATVI) and id Software announced today the legendary first-person action title, the original Wolfenstein 3D(R) will be available for download on June 3 on Xbox LIVE(R) Arcade for the Xbox 360(R) video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and June 4 on PLAYSTATION(R)Network for PLAYSTATION(R)3 (PS3(TM)). The famed title that created an entire video game genre, Wolfenstein 3D offers players a chance to experience the intensity of escaping from Castle Wolfenstein all over again. Classic enemies like Hans Grosse and Mecha-Hitler await players in the six episodes that span 60 levels. Wolfenstein 3D is rated M by the ESRB for Animated Blood and Gore and Animated Violence.

Gamers taking the challenge to defeat the twisted Nazi regime also will earn accolades and be awarded gold for customizable weapon upgrades in id Software's all new, Wolfenstein(TM). The newest addition to the famed blockbuster franchise, Wolfenstein is scheduled to be on store shelves on August 4 on Xbox 360, PS3 and PC and is rated M by the ESRB for Blood and Gore, Intense Violence and Language.

About id Software

id - defined by Freud as the primal section of the human psyche; id Software, located in Mesquite, Texas, was founded in 1991. From inception to present day, id Software has relentlessly provided technical, design and artistic leadership as an independent game developer and technology provider. Transcending the games industry, id's iconic brands such as Wolfenstein, DOOM, QUAKE and Enemy Territory have become staples of popular culture for generations of gamers. More information on id Software can be found atwww.idsoftware.com.

About Activision Publishing, Inc.

Headquartered in Santa Monica, California, Activision Publishing, Inc. is a leading worldwide developer, publisher and distributor of interactive entertainment and leisure products.

Activision Publishing maintains operations in the U.S., Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Sweden, Spain, the Netherlands and Australia. More information about Activision and its products can be found on the company's website,www.activision.com.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-looking Statements: Information in this press release that involves Activision Publishing's expectations, plans, intentions or strategies regarding the future are forward-looking statements that are not facts and involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Activision Publishing generally uses words such as "outlook," "will," "could," "would," "might," "remains," "to be," "plans," "believes," "may," "expects," "intends," "anticipates," "estimate," future," "plan," "positioned," "potential," "project," "remain," "scheduled," "set to," "subject to," "upcoming" and similar expressions to help identify forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause Activision Publishing's actual future results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements set forth in this release include, but are not limited to, sales levels of Activision Publishing's titles, shifts in consumer spending trends, the impact of the current macroeconomic environment, the seasonal and cyclical nature of the interactive game market, Activision Publishing's ability to predict consumer preferences among competing hardware platforms (including next-generation hardware), declines in software pricing, product returns and price protection, product delays, retail acceptance of Activision Publishing's products, adoption rate and availability of new hardware and related software, industry competition, rapid changes in technology and industry standards, protection of proprietary rights, litigation against Activision Publishing, maintenance of relationships with key personnel, customers, vendors and third-party developers, domestic and international economic, financial and political conditions and policies, foreign exchange rates, integration of recent acquisitions and the identification of suitable future acquisition opportunities, Activision Blizzard's success in integrating the operations of Activision Publishing and Vivendi Games in a timely manner, or at all, and the combined company's ability to realize the anticipated benefits and synergies of the transaction to the extent, or in the timeframe, anticipated, and the other factors identified in Activision Blizzard's most recent annual report on Form 10-K and any subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q. The forward-looking statements in this release are based upon information available to Activision Publishing and Activision Blizzard as of the date of this release, and neither Activision Publishing nor Activision Blizzard assumes any obligation to update any such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements believed to be true when made may ultimately prove to be incorrect. These statements are not guarantees of the future performance of Activision Publishing or Activision Blizzard and are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors, some of which are beyond its control and may cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations.

(C) 2009 Id Software, Inc. All rights reserved. Wolfenstein is a trademark and ID is a registered trademark of Id Software, Inc. in the United States and some other countries. Activision is registered trademarks of Activision Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. Xbox, Xbox 360, Xbox Live, Windows and Games for Windows are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. All other trademarks and trade names are the properties of their respective owners.

SOURCE Activision Publishing

http://www.activision.com

Copyright (C) 2009 PR Newswire. All rights reserved

Square Enix - E3 list of games announced - Press Release

Sqaure Enix have released the games they are bringing to E3. They have also highlighted their move to become a more global entertainment company. as well as brining various Final Fantasy Titles, they are bringing new Kingdom Hearts games, Nier will be shown as well as Order of war, suprememe commando 2 and Downloadable titles.

Press Release

With an Expansive Line-Up of FINAL FANTASY Games, the Company Announces New Portfolio of Games across Action, Shooter and RTS Genres Developed from Around the WorldLOS ANGELES (March 29, 2009)— Square Enix, Inc., the publisher of Square Enix® interactive entertainment products in North America, announced today a broad lineup of titles for the 2009 E3 Expo, taking place between June 2 – 4. Highlighting the steps it has taken to become a more global entertainment company, Square Enix will not only feature games developed in partnership with U.S. and European developers such as FRONT MISSION EVOLVED™, ORDER OF WAR™ and SUPREME COMMANDER® 2 at their booth; but continues to offer the highest-quality experiences across all platforms, with highly anticipated new games such as DISSIDIA™ FINAL FANTASY® and FINAL FANTASY XIII, in addition to the next installment in the beloved KINGDOM HEARTS franchise, KINGDOM HEARTS 358/2 Days.

"As our best-selling FINAL FANTASY franchise continues to evolve, Square Enix is focused on creating the best entertainment experiences for all gamers," said John Yamamoto, president and chief executive officer of Square Enix, Inc. and Square Enix Ltd., "Our new partnerships with companies such as Double Helix, Gas Powered Games and Wargaming.net are a testament to our commitment to offer a much broader variety of games across different genres. All while Square Enix remains unchanged in the quality and depth of story we bring to all of the games we publish. We look forward to showcasing the results of these partnerships at E3 2009 as well as several much awaited FINAL FANTASY titles and KINGDOM HEARTS 358/2 Days."

E3 2009 Lineup

DISSIDIA FINAL FANTASY
Developer: Square Enix Co., Ltd.
Publisher: Square Enix, Inc.
Platform: PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system
Genre: Action-RPG
ESRB: T (Teen)
Street Date: August 25, 2009*

DISSIDIA FINAL FANTASY does what no other FINAL FANTASY title has done before, bringing together an all-star cast to give players a chance to see their favorite FINAL FANTASY characters engage in high-intensity battles. Experience this renowned franchise, which has shipped over 85 million units worldwide, in a brand new light with this dramatic 3-D action game. Soar through expansive environments and participate in gripping combat, all while enjoying RPG-based character development that adds a rich layer of depth to the story behind the clashing forces. The battle between good and evil begins – What will you fight for?

The official website can be found at
http://na.square-enix.com/dissidia/.

*Limited-edition DISSIDIA FINAL FANTASY PSP system Entertainment Pack to launch at Gamestop day and date with stand-alone game.

FINAL FANTASY XIII
Developer: Square Enix Co., Ltd.
Publisher: Square Enix, Inc.
Platform: PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system/
Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft
Genre: RPG
ESRB: Not Yet Rated
Ship Date: 2010

Square Enix proudly presents FINAL FANTASY XIII, the latest installment in the world-renowned FINAL FANTASY series. To celebrate the 13th numbered release in the series, Square Enix has undertaken a colossal project involving the development of various content for multiple platforms. FABULA NOVA CRYSTALLIS®, defined in Latin as "the new tale of the crystal," is made up of several different titles based on variations of the FINAL FANTASY XIII universe. While each title in the project features different characters, different worlds and different stories, all are ultimately based on and expand upon a common mythos.

In FINAL FANTASY XIII, players will embark on a journey through the cityworld of Cocoon and the outerworld of Pulse, encountering and fighting alongside a diverse group of allies. Execute powerful attacks with weapons and magic, and summon the enigmatic Eidolons with an evolved
Active Time Battle™ system. Experience seamless transitions between real-time gameplay and in-game cinematics. Do you have the courage to face your destiny?

The official website can be found at
http://www.finalfantasyxiii.com.

FINAL FANTASY CRYSTAL CHRONICLES®: THE CRYSTAL BEARERS®
Developer: Square Enix Co., Ltd.
Publisher: Square Enix, Inc.
Platform: Wii™
Genre: Action-Adventure
ESRB: Not Yet Rated
Ship Date: TBA

FINAL FANTASY CRYSTAL CHRONICLES: THE CRYSTAL BEARERS provides a fresh take on the FINAL FANTASY CRYSTAL CHRONICLES series as it combines the storytelling depth, expansive world and graphical quality of FINAL FANTASY with motion-driven, real-time action gameplay. In this world, realistic gameplay and fantastical art direction are brought together for a truly unique experience for Wii users around the globe.

The official website can be found at
http://www.thecrystalbearers.com/.

FRONT MISSION EVOLVED™
Developer: Double Helix Games™
Publisher: Square Enix, Inc.
Platforms: PLAYSTATION 3/Xbox 360/Windows PC
Genre: Third-Person Shooter
ESRB: Not Yet Rated
Ship Date: TBA

From the creative minds of Square Enix and Double Helix Games, FRONT MISSION EVOLVED brings the classic FRONT MISSION® franchise into an action-packed third-person shooter that gives players full control of a massive humanoid war machine—the wanzer. Players will battle through intense combat situations as they explore an immersive world in both the single player campaign and online multiplayer.

The official website can be found at
http://www.frontmissionevolved.com.

KINGDOM HEARTS 358/2 Days
Developer: Square Enix Co., Ltd./h.a.n.d.
Publisher: Square Enix, Inc.
Platform: Nintendo DS™
Genre: Action-RPG
ESRB: RP (Rating Pending)
Ship Date: Fall 2009

Uncover the events that took place during the year Sora was asleep regaining his lost memories. KINGDOM HEARTS 358/2 Days revolves around Roxas, the "other" hero from KINGDOM HEARTS II, and his days as a member of Organization XIII. Follow Roxas and the rest of Organization XIII across the various Disney Worlds, and discover the connection between him, Sora and the mysterious 14th member, and the reasons behind his eventual departure from the organization. KINGDOM HEARTS 358/2 Days also features a multiplayer mode for the first time, allowing players to control their favorite Organization XIII members!

The official website can be found at
http://na.square-enix.com/khdays/.

NIER™
Developer: cavia, Inc.
Publisher: Square Enix, Inc.
Platforms: PLAYSTATION 3/ Xbox 360
Genre: Action-Adventure
ESRB: Not Yet Rated
Ship Date: 2010

Nothing is as it seems in Square Enix's latest action adventure game, set in a crumbling world plagued by disease and dark, unrecognizable creatures. Players assume the role of the unyielding protagonist, NIER, resolute in his quest to discover a cure for his daughter, who is infected with the Black Scrawl virus. With powerful allies and a mysterious book, NIER encounters things that will confound even the mightiest of warriors.

Official website coming soon.

ORDER OF WAR
Developer: Wargaming.net™
Publisher: Square Enix, Inc.
Platform: Windows PC
Genre: Real-Time Strategy
ESRB: Not Yet Rated
Ship Date: Fall 2009

Square Enix teams up with strategy game specialist Wargaming.net to present ORDER OF WAR, a brand-new IP set for a simultaneous release across multiple territories. Developed exclusively for Windows PC, the game features massive-scale battles brought to life with a cinematic intensity never seen before in a WWII strategy game. Players will take command of an entire army including ground troops, artillery, tank divisions and aircraft in all-out strategic assaults. The single-player mode can be played out in two campaigns – American versus German forces on the western front and German versus Russian on the eastern front. Missions will be based on key historic events and operations from 1944.

The official website can be found at
http://www.orderofwar.com/.

SUPREME COMMANDER 2
Developer: Gas Powered Games®
Publisher: Square Enix, Inc.
Platforms: Xbox 360/Windows PC
Genre: Real-Time Strategy
ESRB: Not Yet Rated
Ship date: 2010

Experience brutal battles on a massive scale! In SUPREME COMMANDER 2, players will wage war by creating enormous customizable armies and experimental war machines that can change the balance of power at any given moment. Take the role of one of the three enigmatic commanders, each representing a unique faction with a rich story that brings a new level of emotional connection to the RTS genre, or fight the battle online.
Where do your loyalties lie?

Official website coming soon.

Downloadable Titles

FINAL FANTASY IV: THE AFTER YEARS™
Developer: Square Enix Co., Ltd.
Publisher: Square Enix, Inc.
Platform: Wii
Genre: RPG
ESRB: E (Everyone)
Launch Date: June 1, 2009

A true sequel to the classic Super NES
title, FINAL FANTASY IV: THE AFTER YEARS is an episodic game coming exclusively to Nintendo's WiiWare™ service June 1, 2009. With both single and multiplayer modes, Wii users will now be able to explore the world of FINAL FANTASY IV with up to three of their friends and coordinate commands into a single attack. Unravel a mystery told through the intertwining stories of a familiar cast of characters, and complete the FINAL FANTASY IV experience with this latest installment in the franchise.

The official website can be found at
http://www.ff4theafteryears.com/.

FINAL FANTASY CRYSTAL CHRONICLES: My Life as a Darklord™
Developer: Square Enix Co., Ltd.
Publisher: Square Enix, Inc.
Platform: Wii
Genre: Real-Time Strategy
ESRB: E10+ (Everyone 10 and older)
Launch Date: 2009

The latest installment in the FINAL FANTASY CRYSTAL CHRONICLES franchise for Nintendo's WiiWare service, FINAL FANTASY CRYSTAL CHRONICLES: My Life as a Darklord turns the tables on players by challenging them to take on the role of the villain. As the newly appointed Darklord with a mission to take over the world, players must strategically place monsters and traps inside their tower to ward off invading adventurers. With this follow-up to the kingdom-building simulation FINAL FANTASY CRYSTAL CHRONICLES: My Life as a King®, Wii users can now enjoy the FINAL FANTASY CRYSTAL CHRONICLES world from an entirely new point of view!

The official website can be found at
http://www.mylifeasadarklord.com/.

To experience the latest offerings from Square Enix first-hand, visit booth 1546 in the South Hall of the Los Angeles Convention Center.

About Square Enix Co., Ltd. and Square Enix, Inc.
Square Enix Co., Ltd. (Square Enix), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Square Enix Holdings Co., Ltd., with headquarters in Tokyo, Japan, develops, publishes and distributes entertainment content including interactive entertainment software and publications in Asia, North America and Europe. Square Enix brings two of Japan's best-selling franchises — FINAL FANTASY®, which has sold over 85 million units worldwide, and DRAGON QUEST®, which has sold over 47 million units worldwide — under one roof. Square Enix is one of the most influential providers of digital entertainment content in the world and continues to push the boundaries of creativity and innovation.

Square Enix, Inc. is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Square Enix Holdings Co., Ltd. with offices in Los Angeles, California. It handles operations in North America, including development, localization, marketing and publishing of Square Enix titles.

EA - Need For Speed Shift Cars and Tracks announced.

EA have released the Cars in Need for Speed Shift, as well as the tracks in the game. in total that makes 18 race tracks and 65 cars. of those 18 tracks, 50 unique layouts are available to be raced on. They have also announced that the one of a kind BMW M3 GT2 will be on the packshot.
More will be shown of the game at E3.





Press Release

Guildford, UK – May 29, 2009 – Start your engines! Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ: ERTS) today announced that Need for Speed™ SHIFT will feature 18 authentic race tracks and over 65 pixel-perfect cars including the one-of-a-kind BMW M3 GT2 that will grace the cover. The spectacular SHIFT cover car is one of the fastest, most powerful cars ever to be featured in a Need for Speed game. Designed to deliver a true drivers experience, SHIFT boasts legendary cars from the past 35 years, each one modeled to deliver an incredible sense of speed and realism.

At Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3) in Los Angeles, gamers will also get a first look at a wide spectrum of the seminal performance machines in the game, including classic cars like the 1972 Nissan Skyline 2000GT-R, renowned tuners like 1995 Mazda RX-7, and ultra-exclusive exotic cars like the 2007 Lamborghini Reventón. The best way to show off these hot rides is to take them for a spin on the track. Need for Speed SHIFT features over 50 unique layouts across 18 tracks including real-world locations and fictional circuits. Players can race on world-renowned tracks like the grueling 20 km Nordschleife or meticulously-designed fictional circuits found in Glendale with its steep grades, hairpin corners and blind crests.

“Need for Speed SHIFT is about the intense power and emotion of being behind the wheel and this carefully selected list of cars and tracks was chosen to give players the ultimate driving moment,” said Patrick Soderlund, Senior Vice President at EA Games Europe. “SHIFT is the evolution of racing genre. We’re delivering the first truly immersive driving game by combining perfectly modelled cars and tracks with the dramatic realism of the true driver’s experience.”

Need for Speed SHIFT car roster:
2006 Aston Martin DBR9
2009 Audi R8 LMS
2008 Audi R8
2008 Audi RS 4
2007 Audi S3
2007 Audi TT 3.2 quattro
2006 Audi S4
BMW M3 E36
BMW M3 E46
BMW M3 E92
2008 BMW 135i Coupé
2009 BMW M3 GT2
2007 BMW Z4 M Coupé
2008 Bugatti Veyron 16.4
2006 Dodge Challenger Concept
2008 Dodge Viper SRT10
Falken Tire 2010 Ford Mustang GT
2010 Ford Shelby GT500
2007 Ford Focus ST
2006 Ford GT
2006 Need For Speed Shelby Terlingua
1996 Ford Escort RS Cosworth
2009 Chevrolet Camaro SS
2006 Chevrolet Cobalt SS
2006 Chevrolet Corvette Z06
2006 Honda Civic Si
2000 Honda S2000
2006 Koenigsegg CCX
2008 Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4
2007 Lamborghini Murciélago LP640
2007 Lamborghini Reventón
2006 Lotus Elise 111R
2007 Lotus Exige S
2005 Maserati MC12 GT1
2008 Mazda MX-5
2006 Mazda RX-8
1995 Mazda RX-7
1994 McLaren F1
2007 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 722 Edition
2007 Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG
2008 Mitsubishi Lancer EVOLUTION
2006 Mitsubishi Lancer EVOLUTION IX MR-edition
2003 Infiniti G35 (V35)
1997 Nissan 200SX (S14)
2009 Nissan 370Z (Z34)
2006 Nissan 350Z (Z33)
2009 Nissan GT-R SpecV (R35)
2008 Nissan GT-R (R35)
2000 Nissan Silvia (S15) spec.R AERO
1999 Nissan Skyline GT-R (R34)
1972 Nissan Skyline 2000GT-R
1992 Nissan 240SX (S13)
2006 Pagani Zonda F
2010 Pagani Zonda R
2008 Porsche 911 GT2
2009 Porsche 911 GT3 RSR
2006 Porsche 911 GT3 RS
2004 Porsche Carrera GT
2007 Porsche Cayman S
2008 Renault Mégane RS
2007 SEAT Leon CUPRA
2006 Subaru Impreza WRX STi
2007 Lexus LF-A Concept
2008 SCION tC
1986 Toyota Corolla GTS (A86)
2008 Volkswagen Scirocco
2006 Volkswagen Golf GTI

Need for Speed SHIFT track list:
1. Alpental
2. Autopolis International Racing Course
3. Ambush Canyon
4. Brands Hatch
5. Dakota
6. Ebisu Circuit
7. Glendale
8. Hazyview
9. Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca
10. London
11. Miytomi
12. Nordschleife
13. Road America
14. Rustle Creek
15. Silverstone
16. Circuit de Spa Francorchamps
17. Tokyo
18. Willow Springs

Need for Speed SHIFT is being developed by Slightly Mad Studios in collaboration with Black Box and Patrick Soderlund. Slightly Mad Studios includes developers and designers that worked on the critically acclaimed games GT Legends and GTR 2. The PSP® (PlayStation® Portable) version is being developed by EA’s Bright Light studio.
Need for Speed SHIFT is scheduled to ship in Europe on September 17 and in North America on September 22 on the PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system, Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system, PC and PSP. More information can be found at
www.needforspeed.com or follow us on Twitter at NeedforSpeed. Press can download assets at www.eagames.co.uk/press

About Electronic Arts
Electronic Arts Inc. (EA), headquartered in Redwood City, California, a leading global interactive entertainment software company. Founded in 1982, the Company develops, publishes, and distributes interactive software worldwide for video game systems, personal computers, wireless devices and the Internet. Electronic Arts markets its products under four brand names: EA SPORTSTM, EATM, EA SPORTS Freestyle TM and POGOTM. In fiscal 2009, EA posted GAAP net revenue of $4.2 billion and had 31 titles that sold more than one million copies. EA's homepage and online game site is
www.ea.com. More information about EA's products and full text of press releases can be found on the Internet at www.eagames.co.uk/press

EA, EA SPORTS, EA SPORTS Freestyle, POGO and Need for Speed are trademarks or registered trademarks of Electronic Arts Inc. in the U.S. and/or other countries.

Lucas Arts - Lego Indiana Jones 2 Announced.

Lucas Arts have announced Lego Indiana Jones 2 for the Nintendo Wii, Nintendo DS, PSP, Xbox 360, and Playstation 3 for a Fall 2009 Release.
the game will be based on all 4 of the Indiana Jones Movies.

The fact Sheet they released for the game also highlights new features for the Lego Brand, namely the ability to create your own levels and environments.

Fact Sheet
  • For the first time ever in a LEGO game, Build Your Own Adventure Mode allows you to create your own levels and environments and share them with your friends.

  • For the ultimate and most authentic LEGO experience, you can create your own levels and combine them with the existing ones in the game.

  • Play all new Kingdom of the Crystal Skull characters such as Mutt Williams on his motorcycle and use special abilities, including Oxley’s Crystal Skull Power.

  • Innovative re-tellings of the classic movies (Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark, Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom, Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade and Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull) with all new objectives and brand new levels. For example, this time you can play through the exciting vehicle chase in Shanghai with Short Round.

  • Beat each level in Story mode and return in Free Play for a completely new adventure.

  • Indy has all new animations, such as grabbing an enemy with his whip then throwing him over his shoulder.

  • Jump into all new vehicles to help Indy get through all the new levels including planes, boats and mine carts – but watch out for the quicksand!

  • Use Indy's newly enhanced whip to interact with Lego objects and help unlock iconic puzzles and battle with enemies.

  • Use a variety of weapons from the environment to fight enemies (e.g., chairs, guns, swords, bottles).

  • Collect artifacts through the game to unlock more than 60 playable characters, including villains and supporting characters (Marion Ravenwood, Mutt Williams, Short Round, Rene Belloq, Willie Scott, Marcus Brody, Dr. Henry Jones Sr. and Irina Spalko).

  • Character swapping and free-play abilities

  • Two-player drop-in, drop-out cooperative gameplay encourages parents to share the legacy of Indiana Jones with their children in a fun and humorous way.

Press Release

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. – May 29, 2009 – LucasArts and TT Games today announced that LEGO® Indiana Jones2: The Adventure Continues will whip onto Wii™, Nintendo DS™, PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system, PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system, Xbox 360®video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and Windows in the Fall of 2009. Developed by the same team at Traveller’s Tales that created the award-winning LEGO® Indiana Jones™: The Original Adventures and the LEGO® Star Wars™ series, LEGO Indiana Jones 2 presents a tongue-in-cheek take on all four cinematic adventures of pop culture’s most iconic archaeologist, including for the first time ever Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull and will give players the ability to create levels of their own!

LucasArts and TT Games continue to set the bar for next-generation family entertainment with the LEGO Indiana Jones franchise,” said Darrell Rodriguez, president of LucasArts. “LEGO Indiana Jones 2 delivers something a little different for everyone. Parents will enjoy the humorous take on the classic moments from their favorite movies, and their kids have an opportunity to experience the most authentic LEGO experience by building their own fun levels brick by brick.”

It has been a real joy to work with LucasArts on such an iconic character. Indiana Jones embodies the adventurous spirit that perfectly suits the LEGO world,” said Tom Stone, director at TT Games. “Indy also presents us with wonderful and memorable cinematic moments.”

For more information on LEGO Indiana Jones, please visit www.lucasarts.com.

About LucasArts

LucasArts, a division of Lucasfilm Entertainment Company Ltd., is a leading developer and publisher of interactive entertainment software worldwide for video game console systems, computers and the Internet. Based in San Francisco, Calif., as well as on the Internet at www.lucasarts.com, LucasArts was created in 1982 by George Lucas to provide an interactive element to his vision of a state-of-the-art, multifaceted entertainment company.

About TT Games

TT Games aims to become a leading developer and publisher of interactive entertainment for young gamers and their families. Based in the UK, the Group incorporates the TT Games Publishing organisation with world-renowned developer Traveller's Tales, and subsidiary studio TT Fusion. The first title to come from the TT Games partnership was the award winning LEGO Star Wars: The Videogame, which won over audiences both young and old alike, achieving critical acclaim rarely matched for a title aimed at children. For more information, visit www.ttgames.com.

About The LEGO Group

LEGO Systems, Inc. is the North American division of The LEGO Group, a privately-held, family-owned company based in Billund, Denmark, one of the world's leading manufacturers of creatively educational play materials for children. The company is committed to the development of children's creative and imaginative abilities, and its employees are guided by the motto adopted in the 1930s by founder Ole Kirk Christiansen: "Only the best is good enough." Visit the virtual LEGO world at www.LEGO.com

Indiana Jones™ and related properties are trademarks and/or copyrights, in the United States and other countries, of Lucasfilm Ltd. and/or its affiliates. TM & © Lucasfilm Ltd. All rights reserved. All other trademarks and trade names are properties of their respective owners.

LucasArts and the LucasArts logo are registered trademarks of Lucasfilm Ltd. ©2008-2009 Lucasfilm Entertainment Company Ltd. or Lucasfilm Ltd. & ® or TM as indicated. All rights reserved.

LEGO, the LEGO logo and the Minifigures are trademarks of The LEGO Group. © 2009 The LEGO Group.

PlayStation”, “PS” Family logo and “PSP” are registered trademarks of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. Memory Stick Duo™ may be required (sold separately).

Wii and Nintendo DS are trademarks of Nintendo.

EA - Grand Slam Tennis Stadiums. Screens and a Q&A (Not done by QTE)

EA Have released screenshots for their Upcoming Grand Slam Tennis, highlighting the different venues. the Pictures show US Open, Australian Open, Wimbledon and Roland Garros.
The Q&A is more about the producers own experience at going to these venues. when talking about putting these venues into the game he does go on to say that they brought the Art Director along to make sure the unique features of each venue were captured.



Q&A

Producer Q&A with Thomas Singleton

Grand Slam Tennis – Venues

Which venues did you go to?

In developing EA SPORTS Grand Slam Tennis, I went to Roland Garros, Wimbledon and the U.S. Open. It was also my first time at any of them.

What was the most impressive thing about being at the Grand Slams?

The most impressive thing about the being there was the sheer scale of the tournaments and the different vibe and cultural aspects of each location from France to England to New York and how unique each one was. Overall I don’t think you truly appreciate how massive these tournaments are and how big the sport of tennis is across the globe until you’ve been to one of the Grand Slams. They’re almost the equivalent of the Superbowl. But instead of one, there are four of them taking place each year.

Which was your favourite and why?

Wimbledon was my favourite because of the history of the event and the scale and the tradition of the tennis there.

What was the atmosphere like at them?

The atmosphere was really different at each one. The Wimbledon fan base was definitely much more about the tradition of tennis, from the attire to the respect to the players, to the etiquette that everybody had. Then when you travel over the U.S. Open where it’s much more about seeing the celebrities at courtside or having a hot dog, it was almost like watching a baseball game. It was about the glitz and glamour, under the lights, the announcers outside constantly talking about what’s coming up. It was a bit more Hollywood style. For the French Open, it seems like everyone in France plays tennis. Everybody at the venue came from work in their suits, very light-hearted. The crowds would constantly shout things out so there was an element of humour. Fashion was definitely a big thing, people got dressed up to go to Roland Garros, and I mean dressed up, the suits, the dresses. It was a pretty interesting thing.

Was it challenging to recreate the venues in the game?

No, we’re all about authenticity, one of the main reasons to go was to not only experience them first hand but also to capture the essence of them visually and audibly.

Did it help that you were there?

It helped immensely to be there. It was myself and our art director that went so that we could make sure they were being built in their 3D in-game form. It also helped us to determine which elements were priorities and what the signature elements were.

What did you learn about tennis that you didn’t already know?

I truly never appreciated the speed of the game at that level, the pace on the ball, the major differences between the court surfaces, from grass to clay to hard court. Seeing the athleticism of the pro tennis player, I have a new found respect for the longevity of the matches and how they can sustain such athletic ability and power throughout.

Mad Catz - Deal Struck with Microsoft for a Multi Year License to make speciality Controller for the 360 - Press Release

Mad Catz have announced an exclusive deal with Microsoft to make specialty Wireless peripherals for the Xbox 360. the first of these will be the wireless Fender bass guitar for Rock Band

Press release

SAN DIEGO --(Business Wire)-- May 29, 2009 Mad Catz Interactive, Inc. (AMEX/TSX: MCZ), a leading third-party interactive entertainment accessory provider, announced today that it has signed a multi-year licensing agreement with Microsoft Corporation (“Microsoft”) (MSFT: NASDAQ). Pursuant to the agreement, Mad Catz has global rights to manufacture, market and sell Xbox 360-branded wireless specialty videogame controllers.

“This agreement expands our relationship with Microsoft and we look forward to shipping a range of new wireless specialty controllers, the first of which will be our wireless Fender bass guitar for Rock Band, later this month,” said Darren Richardson, President and Chief Executive Officer of Mad Catz. “The Xbox 360 platform is a key focus of our growing licensed accessories business and we look forward to bringing Xbox 360 fans a variety of innovative and distinctive wireless specialty controllers to enhance their gaming experiences.”

About Mad Catz Interactive, Inc.

Mad Catz is a global leader in providing innovative peripherals for the interactive entertainment industry. Mad Catz designs and markets accessories for video game systems and publishes video game software, including the industry-leading GameShark video game enhancements, under its Mad Catz, GameShark and Joytech brands. Mad Catz also designs and markets mice, keyboards, headsets, PC gaming controllers and other PC peripherals through its Saitek brand, and recently began manufacturing and marketing proprietary portable earphones under its AirDrives brand. Mad Catz distributes its products through most of the leading retailers offering interactive entertainment products and has offices across Canada, Europe and Asia. For additional information please go to www.madcatz.com, as well as www.gameshark.com, www.airdrives.com, www.saitek.com and www.joytech.net.

Safe Harbor for Forward Looking Statements: This press release contains forward-looking statements about the Company's business prospects that involve substantial risks and uncertainties. The Company assumes no obligation to update the forward-looking statements contained in this press release as a result of new information or future events or developments. You can identify these statements by the fact that they use words such as "anticipate," "estimate," "expect," "project," "intend," "should," "plan," "goal," "believe," and other words and terms of similar meaning in connection with any discussion of future operating or financial performance. Among the factors that could cause actual results to differ materially are the following: the ability to maintain or renew the Company's licenses; competitive developments affecting the Company's current products; first party price reductions; the ability to successfully market both new and existing products domestically and internationally; difficulties or delays in manufacturing; or a downturn in the market or industry. A further list and description of these risks, uncertainties and other matters can be found in the Company's reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission and the Canadian Securities Administrators.

THQ - MX VS ATV Reflex Screenshots and Trailer

THQ have released screenshots and a trailer for their upcoming game, MX VS ATV Reflex.



THQ - Darksiders Trailer and screenshots

THQ have released new screens for Darksiders as well as a new trailer.



EA - The Sims 3. New Screenshots and Trailer for Riverview Town

EA Have released new screens for Sims 3 and a trailer for Riverview Town, a town only available Online.




PS3 - No EU Afrika Release Information At Present

After reading that Natsume is publishing Afrika in the USA i asked Sony Europe if there was any information regarding a EU/UK release.

"There is no information regarding the European market" was the response. Not saying that it won't come out, but not a confirmation either.

Xbox 360 - Partnership With Sky TV announced in the UK. - Press Release

Microsfot has announced a partnership with Sky TV in the UK. Coming this Autumn, you will be able to watch Sky TV Via your Xbox 360. More channels will be announced nearer launch, but expect to see football, test match cricket, documentaries and programs aimed at children. These will be able to be viewed either live or on demand. Interactive Programs will be developed using the 360, for example, watching a football match you will also be able to see the league and news also.

The Pictures are from Gadgetoid

Press Release

Xbox 360 joins forces with Sky to offer first ever console-based live TV service

LONDON & DUBLIN - 28 May 2009: Millions of entertainment fans will soon have the way they watch TV transformed, as Xbox 360 and Sky announce a ground-breaking partnership which will enable, for the first time ever, premium live television to be watched through a games console.

In a UK and Ireland first, Sky Player, Sky’s online TV service, will come to Xbox LIVE in the autumn, allowing Xbox owners to access a range of channels and programmes to either view live or on-demand.

Details of the full channel line-up will be revealed closer to launch, but it is anticipated that Xbox LIVE users will be able to access blockbuster movies, must-see entertainment shows, thought-provoking documentaries, programming dedicated to kids, music and the arts, as well as all the excitement of Premier League football, Test Match cricket and a wide variety of other sports through Sky Sports.

The news, officially unveiled today in Central London by Sky Sports News Georgie Thompson, reveals there will be a number of viewing options.

For a new customer joining Sky through their Xbox, Sky Player will offer a wide range of live channels and on-demand content via a number of different packages. These customers will also be able to access their favourite shows on a pay-per-view basis.

Existing Sky customers who already own an Xbox will benefit from another way to view their favourite shows, in addition to their Sky set-top box and PC or Mac

There will be a range of unique interactive services available to the Xbox LIVE / Sky Player offering. For Sky Sports, for example, this will mean that live coverage will be supported by range of applications to enhance the viewing experience further. As well as fans being able to communicate with one another in real time via their broadband connections, they will also be able to check news and access fixtures, league tables and other on-demand information. Interactive applications will also be developed across other programmes genres.

Stephen Nuttall, Director of Sky’s Commercial Group comments:” Our partnership with Xbox is a further example of our commitment to put choice and control in the hands of customers. Xbox owners now have a range of ways to access Sky content and can pick and choose the platform and packages that are right for them. We are extremely excited about the opportunity of reaching Xbox owners who are looking to experience Sky for the first time, as well as giving our existing customers yet another way to experience the content they love.”

Echoing this, Neil Thompson, Head of Xbox UK and Ireland, adds: “Our customers have told us that they want the opportunity to use their consoles as a way to access TV and once again Xbox has pulled off an entertainment first with amazing content and rich interactive experience. The combination of Sky’s leadership in content creation and aggregation and our own in creating a constantly evolving new generation of rich 360 entertainment experiences means we are one step closer to our goal of offering Xbox owners the best entertainment experiences out there, whether it’s movies, music, games, interactive experiences or high quality TV.”

Sky Player joins Xbox LIVE’s ever-expanding interactive online offering spanning on-demand films, music videos and games. It also enables users to communicate with each other via live video chat and MSN Messenger, beating console rivals to cement Xbox 360 as a true pioneer of home entertainment.

Sky Player currently provides access to a range of live TV channels – including Sky Sports – and a comprehensive on-demand library of thousands of programmes spanning entertainment, movies, documentaries, kids, culture, news and sport.

- Ends -

About Sky Player TV
Sky Player TV was launched in December 2008 as a dedicated online subscription TV service, providing an alternative way to subscribe to Sky TV, without the need to subscribe to an existing TV-based service. It built upon the success of Sky Player, which launched in 2006 as a bonus service for Sky’s Direct-to-Home (DTH) customer base, allowing Sky customers to access live channels and on-demand content via their computers. It currently provides access to the likes of Sky Sports, Sky Movies, Sky News, The History Channel, National Geographic, the BBC, G.O.L.D, Eden, MTV ONE, Sky1, Disney Channel and Nickelodeon, among others.

About Sky
Sky is the UK’s leading entertainment and communications company, operating the most comprehensive multi-channel television service. Over 9.3 million homes - a third of households across the UK and Ireland - enjoy the very best entertainment, movies, news and sports channels on Sky Digital. In delivering entertainment through the TV, PC and mobile, customers have more control and flexibility over what, how and when they watch.

Over 5 million customers now choose Sky+, Sky’s digital video recorder, to record and store their favourite programmes and over a million homes enjoy the unprecedented picture and sound quality of Sky+HD, which offers 33 dedicated HD channels. Sky is also the UK’s fastest growing broadband and fixed-telephony provider with over 2 million customers taking Sky Broadband and just under 1.7 million customers taking Sky Talk.

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 has a portfolio of more than 300 games in nearly 40 countries. 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 as well as new game levels, characters and vehicles for all their favourite retail games. More information can be found online at
http://www.xbox.com/en-us/live.

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 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 sales 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 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. If you are interested in viewing additional information on Microsoft, please visit the Microsoft Web page at
http://www.microsoft.com/presspass on Microsoft’s corporate information pages. Web links, telephone numbers and titles were correct at time of publication, but may since have changed. For additional assistance, journalists and analysts may contact Microsoft’s Rapid Response Team or other appropriate contacts listed at: http://www.microsoft.com/presspass/contactpr.mspx