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Messages - Les Thomas

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1
TalkBack / PREVIEWS: Robocalypse
« on: July 15, 2008, 12:00:54 PM »
Stylus driven real-time strategy with wisecracking robots.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/previewArt.cfm?artid=16363

 Tecmo and Vogster have teamed to bring the stylus only, real-time strategy game Robocalypse to the Nintendo DS for October, 2008.  Tecmo claims a technological breakthrough for the game's DS release: Fifty A.I. driven units with advanced distributed path-finding.  So put on your strategy helmet and break out the Sun Tzu for campaign mode.    


The story, penned by SpongeBob writer Jay Lender and Micah Wright, will feature robot armies equipped with over 20 unique weapons engaged in real-time strategic warfare.  Tecmo promises the story-line will have plenty of humorous twists.  Robocalypse will also feature an original soundtrack and advanced graphics that include 3D particle effects.    


The first player campaign mode features 17 missions and an extensive plot surrounding the fate of the planet.  The game also includes local, multi-card wireless play for two to four player co-op and head-to-head warring that includes additional maps and the ability to track your progress.    


Look for it on store shelves this fall.


2
TalkBack / Nintendo DS Used in Japanese School to Teach English
« on: July 11, 2008, 04:08:51 PM »
"Two hamburgers and two colas please."  This is definitely not the English lesson their parents took.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=16328

 Try to imagine a classroom of 32 giggly seventh grade Japanese students at Tokyo's Joshi Gakuen all-girls junior high school.  They chant together loudly: "Two hamburgers and two colas please."  It's not your typical English lesson; these Japanese students are learning to speak English with the Nintendo DS.    


Breaking from traditional Japanese academic methods, the portable gaming device has become a unique teaching tool.  The students use the pen-like stylus to write words like "hamburger" and "cola" on the handheld's lower touch screen.  This activity is followed by an electronic voice repeating the word and corresponding animated sequences.    


"It's fun," says Chigusa Matsumoto, a 12 year-old student at the school.  She whizzes through the drills in the electronic English lesson to be rewarded with a sticker.  "You can study while you have fun," she said.  And while Chigusa has a DS and games like "Mario Kart" and "Animal Crossing" at home, she insists her favorite game is her English class software.    


The learning software was developed by Paon, recent Smash Bros. development collaborator.  "This is quite revolutionary for a Japanese schoolroom," said Yasuhiro Yamamoto, manager at software maker Paon Corp.  The DS English language program is the first to be linked to a widely used Japanese public-school textbook series.    


Japanese education in the English language is well-known for failing to develop conversation skills and instead tends to focus on rote memorization and grammar.  The DS program's heavy use of dialogue and interaction, linked to traditional study material, could prove to be a mighty combination.    


The school's community seems split on how they feel about video game systems in the classroom.  Principal Tsuneo Saneyoshi said cautiously, "Some teachers aren't quite convinced this is good."  While vice Principal, Junko Tatsumi said, "There was no opposition from the parents.  It wasn't that difficult a decision for us.  We thought it was a great idea."    


The school received 40 DS systems and free software for agreeing to be part of a test in a real classroom.


3
TalkBack / Nintendo Plays Hardball over Patent Lawsuit
« on: July 10, 2008, 01:44:58 AM »
Last month's appeal denial only makes Nintendo more determined to challenge the $21 million decision in a higher court.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=16306

 On May 14, 2008, Nintendo Co. was told by a federal jury to pay $21 million to Texas game company Anascape for infringing a patent used in their Wii and GameCube controllers.  Nintendo was quick to downplay the verdict and swiftly announced intentions to appeal the lawsuit.    


But on June 26, the court denied Nintendo's appeal and request for a reduced verdict.  Nintendo now has intentions to appeal to a higher court.  "Nintendo does not agree with the ruling of the trial court," said Charlie Scibetta, senior director of public relations at Nintendo of America.  "Nintendo intends to appeal this case to the Federal circuit court."    


Nintendo believes their work in "rumble controllers" was far ahead of Anascape's when the patent was filed.  Nintendo and the court were quick to point out the Wii Remote and Nunchuk controllers did not violate the Texas Company's patent in any way.      


Anascape's patent for a "3D controller with vibration" was filled in November 2000 and issued June 2005.  Nintendo's widely popular and innovative Rumble Pak for the Nintendo 64 controller was released in April 1997 and its force feedback vibration quickly became a staple of gameplay.    


The jury said that Anascape's lawyers presented enough evidence showing that Nintendo had infringed on patents in the production of the GameCube controller, WaveBird, and Wii Classic Controller.  "We appreciate the court's thoughtful consideration in upholding the jury's decision," said Doug Cawley, lead counsel for Anascape.  "Although not a giant corporation like Nintendo, Anascape has every right to protect its technology."  In a similar claim of controller infringement, Microsoft reached an out-of-court settlement with the small east Texas gaming company on May 1, 2008.  Anascape is also in legal talks with Sony Corp. over controller patents.  Anascape cited multiple patent violations against Microsoft and Nintendo in the original lawsuits.  The breadth of controller mechanisms cited and six year span of patents leaves an incomplete picture that will be established with further legal proceedings.


4
TalkBack / Activision Ships Guitar Hero: Aerosmith for Wii
« on: July 03, 2008, 02:39:00 PM »
"It may turn a lot of musicians into gamers," says Aerosmith guitarist Joe Perry, "and gamers into musicians."
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=16279

 Activision's Guitar Hero: Aerosmith is now available in stores nationwide.  You play along with the crew of Aerosmith - Steven Tyler, Joe Perry, Brad Whitford, Tom Hamilton, and Joey Kramer - at venues from historic moments in the band's career.  Players will feel "sweet emotion" as they capture the essence of the band's rise to fame.    


"Guitar Hero: Aerosmith offers multiple generations of music fans a unique opportunity to live out their rock and roll fantasies with one of the greatest bands of all time," said Dusty Welch, Head of Publishing for RedOctane.  "The intensive motion capture sessions and countless hours of input from Aerosmith have heightened authenticity and proven to be invaluable assets in making not just a great video game, but an amazing interactive music experience."    


Guitar Hero: Aerosmith brings these rock legends to the interactive realm for the ultimate music gaming experience.  As fans progress through their careers in the game, they can rock out to scores of Aerosmith's greatest hits including tracks re-mastered specifically for the game's release.  Guitar Hero: Aerosmith will also feature songs the band has covered along with songs that have inspired their longstanding career.    


Guitar Hero: Aerosmith is now available for the Wii console.  The game is rated T for Teens (Lyrics, Mild Suggestive Themes) by the ESRB.      


  Fans Experience 'Sweet Emotion' as Activision’s Guitar Hero®: Aerosmith® Rocks Retail Shelves Nationwide    


Epic Video Game Collaboration Lets Players Rock Out With America's Greatest Rock 'N' Roll Band – Aerosmith
   


SANTA MONICA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Gamers and music fans alike are now free to unleash their inner-rockstar as the groundbreaking video game partnership uniting one of 2007's best selling video games and 'America's Greatest Rock 'n' Roll Band'--Steven Tyler, Joe Perry, Brad Whitford, Tom Hamilton and Joey Kramer--shred store shelves nationwide with Activision, Inc's Guitar Hero®: Aerosmith®. Players can rock out with friends Aerosmith-style with the limited special edition bundle, including a copy of the game, wireless guitar with an exclusive Aerosmith faceplate design, and a collector's 18-page tour book.    


"It's going to give guitar and music a boost," Aerosmith guitarist Joe Perry said. "And it’s also going to give new life to all these songs. It may turn a lot of musicians into gamers and gamers into musicians."    


Steven Tyler says, "What’s better than to create a game about us and base it around where we’ve played? And how do a bunch of guys from Yonkers and New Hampshire make it big?"    


"Guitar Hero: Aerosmith offers multiple generations of music fans a unique opportunity to live out their rock and roll fantasies with one of the greatest bands of all time," said Dusty Welch, Head of Publishing for RedOctane. "The intensive motion capture sessions and countless hours of input from Aerosmith have heightened authenticity and proven to be invaluable assets in making not just a great video game, but an amazing interactive music experience."    


Guitar Hero: Aerosmith brings these quintessential rock legends to the interactive realm to create the ultimate gaming experience. As fans progress through their careers in the game, they can rock out to scores of Aerosmith's greatest hits including various tracks re-mastered by the legendary band for Guitar Hero: Aerosmith, as well as songs from celebrated artists that the band has either performed with or has been inspired by in some way. Highlighting the list of celebrated artists is an in-game guest appearance from one of the pioneers of hip-hop and kings of rock, Darryl "DMC" McDaniels. Venues from historical moments during the band's illustrious career offer the experience of "sweet emotion" and further capture the essence of the band's rise to fame.    


Guitar Hero: Aerosmith is now available for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system, Wii™ home video game system from Nintendo and PlayStation®2 computer entertainment. The game is rated "T" for Teen (Lyrics, Mild Suggestive Themes) by the ESRB.


5
TalkBack / Nintendo to Launch Wii in Taiwan July 12th
« on: July 03, 2008, 06:35:23 AM »
Wii continues worldwide reach as Taiwan gets official site and launch date.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=16278

 The Nintendo Wii video game console will officially launch in Taiwan on July 12, 2008.  Nintendo Phuten Co. recently launched Taiwan's official Nintendo site.  The site features the Wii bundled with Wii Sports at a price of 8,500 TWD (280 USD).      


However, in a country known for media piracy, some video game fans already own a Wii.   The video game system has been on sale in Taiwan for some time, with stores importing the system and even selling the system pre-installed with illegal mod chips.  The Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 consoles have an official two-year head-start (and recent price cut for Xbox 360) advantage over the Nintendo Wii system.    


If the system can successfully overcome these circumstances, Taiwan will prove a good test for the universal pull of the Nintendo Wii.


6
TalkBack / Urban Extreme for Wii Set to Spin-Out in Europe
« on: July 02, 2008, 11:33:56 AM »
Race or die!  That's the impetus for the mean street racer that's coming to the Popcorn Arcade label.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=16271

 Urban Extreme: Street Rage is set in Fortune City.  As an experienced street driver you are forced by the Underworld into a series of extreme and potentially lethal urban races.  Data Design Interactive will release the game under their Wii value brand Popcorn Arcade.    


The game will feature 32 vehicle designs over 16 levels of gritty urban street environments.  Urban Extreme will also feature multiple gameplay modes, including a Carnage Mode where your goal is to take out the most cars while not wrecking your own.  Career Mode gives you a chance to save your hard earned cash and redeem it for new vehicles and to enter more expensive street races.  The game supports split-screen multiplayer, widescreen, and progressive scan modes.    


There is currently no release date for Urban Extreme: Street Rage.    


  Popcorn Arcade Now offers; Urban Extreme: Street Rage on Nintendo Wii...    


With the price of petrol going through the roof this could mean the nail in the coffin for Boy Racers, Speed Maniacs, Street Racing and Joy Riders. So how are you going to get your thrill of driving through city centres in illegal street races, where you need ram your foot on the accelerator and bugger the consequences?    


Well now you can experience that excitement in your own home thanks to… Data Design Interactive - a successful video games publisher and games developer, who today announced a new title to be added to their Nintendo Wii label, Popcorn Arcade, Urban Extreme: Street Rage.    


Urban Extreme: Street Rage is set in Fortune City. As an experienced Street driver you are forced by the Underworld into a series of extreme and sometimes lethal urban races. Competing in these contests is a dirty business and could cost you your car, and even your life…    


32 Unique play and unlockable vehicle designs.    


16 level choices and Cup challenge modes set in a gritty urban environment.      


Test your nerve and take out the most cars with explosive results in Carnage Mode.    


Split screen multiplayer support with widescreen, and hires progressive scan modes.    


Career mode: Spend your hard earnt prize money to buy new cars and enter more expensive races.    


The rules of the road don't apply in this high-speed, anything goes competition…


7
TalkBack / Call of Duty: World at War Marches onto Wii
« on: July 01, 2008, 04:07:57 AM »
Activision introduces the next multi-platform Call of Duty game to the Wii, including two player co-op and unspecified online play.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=16254

 Call of Duty: World at War will take players into the series' untouched South Pacific theatre, with additional missions in Europe.  As U.S. Marines and Russian soldiers, players will utilize features like cooperative gameplay and new weapons such as the flamethrower.  The Wii version will receive a "unique co-op mode for two players" although it won't have the online co-op capabilities of the other versions.    


"With Call of Duty: World at War, we’re re-defining what it means to play a WWII game," said Mark Lamia, Studio Head for Treyarch. "We’re excited to give players a host of new enemies that employ entirely new tactics, as well as new, groundbreaking tools – like co-op and the flamethrower – to succeed in the epic fight."    


Nintendo World Report previously reported on an interview in which Treyarch claimed that the Wii version of the game was looking "better than any Wii game on the market so far." The same interview also revealed that the Wii version would feature online multiplayer capabilities; it now appears that co-operative play isn't included in that statement.    


Call of Duty: World at War is scheduled for release Q4 2008.    


CALL OF DUTY®: WORLD AT WAR ENLISTS FOR NEW BATTLES    


Expanding Its Theater of Operations to the Pacific, Latest Title in Hit Franchise Poised to Re-Define the WWII Experience
   


Santa Monica, CA – June 23, 2008 – Leave your packs and bring extra ammo, Activision, Inc. and Treyarch, announced today that they will be taking Call of Duty players deep into the South Pacific and European theaters this fall for Call of Duty: World at War™, a gritty fight that will pit players against enemies that know no surrender and show no mercy. Utilizing the Call of Duty 4®: Modern Warfare engine, Call of Duty: World at War throws out the rulebook of war to transform WWII combat through a new enemy, new tactics and an uncensored experience of the climatic battles that gripped a generation. As U.S. Marines and Russian soldiers, players will employ new features like cooperative gameplay, and weapons such as the flamethrower in the most chaotic and cinematically intense experience to date.    


"With Call of Duty: World at War, we’re re-defining what it means to play a WWII game," said Mark Lamia, Studio Head for Treyarch. "We’re excited to give players a host of new enemies that employ entirely new tactics, as well as new, groundbreaking tools – like co-op and the flamethrower – to succeed in the epic fight."    


Call of Duty: World at War introduces co-operative play, bringing fresh meaning to the "No One Fights Alone" mantra with up to four-players online for Xbox 360, PS3 and PC, or two-player local split-screen on consoles. Nintendo Wii will also support a unique co-op mode for two players. For the first time ever players will experience harrowing single-player missions together for greater camaraderie and tactical execution. The co-op campaign allows players to rank up and unlock perks in competitive multiplayer by completing challenges and earning experience points, adding continuous re-playability and team-based gameplay. Whether playing competitively or cooperatively – if players are online with Call of Duty: World at War – they will always gain experience points. Based on a player’s experience rank and rank of the player’s friends, Call of Duty: World at War will scale dynamically to provide a deeper level of challenge.    


Call of Duty: World at War is in development for the Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system, Nintendo® Wii™ and Games for Windows® PC. The title is scheduled for release this fall and has not yet been rated.


8
TalkBack / Paper Mario Music-Swap Lawsuit a Mistake
« on: June 30, 2008, 08:51:18 AM »
Lawsuit against Nintendo for use of the song "You're so Cool" in a three-year old commercial lasts less than a week before being voluntarily dropped.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=16246

 On June 12, 2008 Morgan Creek announced a lawsuit against Nintendo for using the song You're so Cool from their film True Romance in a GameCube game ad. The game was not mentioned by name in the lawsuit, but the only GameCube game ad to feature the song was used in a television commercial for Nintendo's Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door in 2004.  The suit, filed by Morgan Creek Productions in U.S. District Court for the Central District of California, was voluntarily dismissed by the plaintiff six days later, on June 18, 2008.    


Morgan Creek overlooked a legal detail Nintendo's ad agency, Leo Burnett, was happy to point out:    


"Leo Burnett provided Morgan Creek Productions with a copy of a music license entered into between Leo Burnett USA, on behalf of Nintendo of America and Morgan Creek, for licensing of the song."    


The lawsuit was dropped the following day.  The cost of Morgan Creek's legal exertions was not disclosed.


9
TalkBack / Majesco Announces Slowed Q2 Earnings
« on: June 27, 2008, 01:09:28 AM »
List of announced 2008 lineup composed almost exclusively of Wii and DS titles.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=16228

 Majesco Inc. recently released financials for the second quarter of 2008.  The report showed a slight slowing trend for sales and profit compared to the same quarter in 2007.  However, the company's combined earnings for the first two quarters of 2008 are up from last year nearly 50%.  Majesco Entertainment released six games this quarter, an overwhelming four were on the Nintendo DS system.    


"We launched six new titles in the second quarter and 10 titles year to date.  Two titles shipped for Nintendo's Wii system, seven for Nintendo's DS handheld, and one title for the PSP, aimed to maintain our focus on the family-friendly market," said Jesse Sutton, CEO of Majesco Inc., "For the first six months of 2008, our combined DS and Wii business, which is at the core of our mass market strategy, is up roughly 50% versus last year.  We remain on pace to achieve…full fiscal year net revenue between $53 and $58 million."    


For the three months ended April 30, 2008 to April 30, 2007, net revenue was $12.8 million in 2008 compared to $14.6 million in 2007.  Majesco's rate of return showed the same trend.  Gross margin was 34.7 percent, compared to 42 percent in 2007.  For the six Months ended April 30, 2008 to April 30, 2007, net revenue was $31.4 million in 2008 compared to $29.1 million in 2007.  Gross margin was 38 percent compared to 36.6 percent in the same period during 2007.      


Majesco points to release of Cooking Mama: Cook Off for Wii in Q2 2007 as the chief indicator of a slower second quarter this year.  The company provided different metrics that factor in 2007 equity financing and litigation costs into financial projections.  Majesco raised $5.9 million in financing in the last quarter 2007 alone and point to the outside investment as the reason for the 2008 reduction in stock price, non-cash stock gains, as well as useful in projecting earnings for the final two quarters.    


In the past, Majesco has done everything from manufacturing Sega Genesis consoles, to packaging television and movie video content in GBA cartridges, and publishing a series of highly visible but commercially unsuccessful titles in late 2005. This led to the development of their current strategy: games that appeal to the new gaming audience almost exclusively for the Nintendo Wii and DS.  "We continue to execute on our mass market, family-friendly strategy and build on our presence in one of the industry's fastest growing genres," said Sutton.    


  Following is an excerpt of their earnings press release listing upcoming games.    


Fiscal 2008    


To date, the Company has announced the following titles that are expected for release during the rest of fiscal 2008:    


Nancy Drew: The Mystery of the Clue Bender Society for DS is the follow up to The Deadly Secret of Olde World Park and offers mystery buffs and Nancy Drew fans a fresh interactive caper with new gameplay elements including snowmobiling and boating.    


Babysitting Mania for DS is based on the hit online PC simulation from Gogii Games that challenges players to manage unruly kids, lists of chores and out-of-control houses without losing their cool.    


Zoo Hospital for Wii is the first Wii game of its kind that lets players experience a veterinarian's job by performing various surgical procedures on 48 different animals that they can then care for in their enclosures to ensure a healthy recovery.    


Three adventure games for younger Wii players from the best-selling, award-winning Humongous properties catalog: Freddi Fish in Kelp Seed Mystery, Pajama Sam in Don't Fear the Dark and SPY Fox in Dry Cereal. All three integrate the Wii Remote in point-and-click style adventure play that the entire family can enjoy together.    


Rollin' Rascals for DS challenges players to roll adorable round pets around obstacles and into identical twos to clear them from the game board in this addictive puzzler.      


Air Traffic Chaos for DS lets players take charge as an air traffic controller at the world's busiest airports so they can safely maintain an efficient flight schedule and order on the runways.    


Blast Works: Build, Trade, Destroy for Wii, is an innovative interpretation of a geometric shooter that lets players build their own personalized game experiences and then share their creations with friends via WiiConnect24.    


Wonder World Amusement Park for Wii brings to life a fully 3D world of boardwalk games, rides and prizes across multiple themed areas that players can explore with personalized avatars.    


Cake Mania® 2 for DS is the sequel to the best-selling DS game based on Sandlot Games' award-winning downloadable title. Players lead Jill Evans through more than 200 different levels of baking and frosting madness with an all-new customer base, exotic locations, kitchen upgrades and multiple endings. A playable demo will also be featured in approximately 10,000 Nintendo DS Download Stations at major retail locations nationwide this summer.    


Orchard for online and retail PC is a simulation that challenges players to manage all facets of a retail business, including planting and harvesting crops, developing new recipes, buying ingredients and hiring a workforce.        


Cooking Mama: World Kitchen for Wii is the sequel to the best-selling Cooking Mama Cook Off game that has sold more than 430,000 units and challenges players to use the Wii Remote as the ultimate cooking utensil.    


First Quarter 2009 ending January 31, 2009:    


To date, the Company has announced the following titles that are expected for release during the fiscal first quarter of 2009:    


Major Minor's Majestic March for Wii marks the return of the creative team behind the renowned PaRappa the Rapper franchise-legendary game designer and multimedia musician Masaya Matsuura and famed New York artist Rodney Alan Greenblat. The game turns the Wii Remote into a "special" baton the bandleader Major Minor uses to keep tempo, recruit new band members and pick up valuable items, while marching through whimsical locations.    


Cake Mania: In the Mix! for Wii marks the first introduction of Sandlot Games' best-selling PC title on the Wii system. The game integrates motion-based control with the series' signature cake-baking multi-tasking gameplay style.    


Our House for Wii turns the Wii Remote into the ultimate creation tool that lets players design, build and decorate their own personalized trophy home, and then share it with friends in an online neighborhood via WiiConnect24.    


Our House for DS is the first game from Majesco Studios Santa Monica. This companion game to the Wii version lets players work as contractors and then use their work-for-hire earnings to design, build and decorate their own personalized trophy home.    


Wonder World Amusement Park for DS is the second game from Majesco Studios Santa Monica. This companion game to the Wii version launching in July lets players experience a complete day at the park in the palm of their hands. Using the Touch Screen, players can toss, drive, shoot, whack, fish and spin in more than two dozen mini-games throughout five themed zones.    


Jillian Michaels' Fitness Ultimatum 2009 for Wii is the first game of its type to combine a celebrity fitness trainer with the Wii and innovative Wii Fit Balance Board™ accessory to offer players a fun and entertaining way to get in shape.


10
TalkBack / DS 'a primarily female platform' in Europe
« on: June 24, 2008, 02:14:57 AM »
"First time ever in the computer games industry," claims the CEO of Some Research & GameVision Europe. Also, the Wii exhibits a 50-50 split between genders.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=16211

 At the NLGD Festival of Games, Sean Dromgoole, CEO of Some Research & GameVision Europe, delivered the keynote speech and unveiled his research in the demographic use of video game consoles across the continent.    


Analysts may be unnecessary to confirm that the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 continue to appeal to the traditionally heavy male demographic, but Dromgoole's analysis of the demographic use of the Nintendo systems turned up historic results.  "The Wii is almost fifty-fifty male and female usage" he said, "and the DS, for the first time ever in the computer games industry, [is] a primarily female platform on which to game."  He also concluded the DS is "very much a young person's platform."    


However, Dromgoole spotted a potential problem: "Some developers who make games don't like to hear that - but that is the truth of the matter: it is a primarily female platform."


11
TalkBack / Focus Announces Last King of Africa for DS
« on: June 23, 2008, 06:02:12 PM »
Focus Home Interactive and White Birds Productions will release adventure title Last King of Africa before the end of 2008.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=16210

 Last King of Africa follows Ann Smith's treacherous journey to reach her dying father, the "last king in Africa."  After a plane crash, Ann wakes up behind enemy lines with amnesia.  This is just the beginning of a journey through an "imaginary" Africa that will include puzzles and brainteasers for the Nintendo DS touch screen and microphone.  While a port of the Benoit Sokal PC classic Paradise, Focus promises a totally revamped story and gameplay developed around the capabilities of the DS.    


The DS version will differ most noticeably in that it will not include any 3D action sequences.  The story will be more text-laden, with close-ups of the character's faces on the top screen.  The DS version will also include a help system to cut down on unnecessary pixel-hunts.  Much of the story and style of Paradise will remain, but the game has been transformed into a true DS point-and-click adventure.    


Developer Focus Home Interactive and publisher White Birds Productions will release Last King of Africa for DS by the end of 2008.    


  Focus and White Birds announce Last King of Africa for the Nintendo DS™    


We are pleased to announce that Focus Home Interactive has settled on an agreement with White Birds to publish and distribute Last King of Africa, Benoit Sokal's first adventure game for the Nintendo DS. The game will be available end of 2008.    


Last King of Africa on Nintendo DS invites you on a fantastic journey deep into an imaginary Africa where you will play the role of young Ann Smith, daughter of the last king of Maurania. Ann is on her way to assist her dying father on his deathbed when her plane crashes near a city held by a rebel faction, on the north side of the country. Ann lives through this terrible accident and wakes up with amnesia in a prince’s palace. That is how her extraordinary journey begins.    


In order to develop the game on the Nintendo DS, this amazing adventure created by Benoit Sokal had to be totally rethought with regard to Paradise on the PC. The numerous puzzles and mind-teasers throughout the game have been completely reworked and now offer an original and intuitive gameplay that takes advantage of the Nintendo DS functions. The use of the stylus, microphone and your own logic will be of capital importance in solving the puzzles and mind-teasers.    


The story itself has undergone some refreshing changes and is now much more coherent and surprising. These modifications are notable in the radical change in the relationships between the principal characters and in the combination and simplification of the dialogues that retain only the essential information needed to understand the story line without artificially prolonging the game. Still with the same intention of facilitating comprehension, Nintendo DS's dialogue interface offers a more expressive identification of the characters. The characters are now displayed with a close up shot on the DS upper screen. Also, 3D action phases have been eliminated to make Last King of Africa a true, pure and traditional point & click adventure game.    


Finally, Last King of Africa on Nintendo DS has equipped itself with a clear and detailed layout of the game’s zones for increased ease of orientation during the course of the adventure. The game has also equipped itself with a help system to lend a hand to players during exploration phases and to avoid fastidious "pixel hunting". Thanks to its magnificent 2D scenes in which detailed 3D characters evolve, perplexing mind-teasers and exciting alternative stories, Last King of Africa has all the necessary qualities to make this a great Nintendo DS adventure.    


Last King of Africa will be released on Nintendo DS end of the year 2008.


12
TalkBack / THQ Announces Bratz Girlz Really Rock for Wii, DS
« on: June 23, 2008, 05:51:29 PM »
THQ readies seventh Bratz game just in time for DVD and doll line by same name.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=16209

 The bestselling Bratz series will receive a new installment this fall on the Wii, DS, and PlayStation 2.  Bratz Girlz Really Rock will follow the storyline of the upcoming animated film and feature the Bratz characters performing music.  Players can practice in the recording studio or go on stage for a live guitar or keyboard performance of music from the DVD movie soundtrack.  The game will also feature make-up play and fashion design alongside 18 mini-games.  The mini-games include sky-diving, 18 hole mini-golf, and music and dance performances.      


THQ'S UPCOMING BRATZ™ GIRLZ REALLY ROCK SET TO HEADLINE GIRLS VIDEO GAME LINE-UP THIS FALL    


New Game Based on the Upcoming Doll Line and Animated DVD Launch Includes a Recording Studio, Makeover Station, Fashion Design Suite and Exciting New Mini-games
   


AGOURA HILLS, Calif. – June 16, 2008 – THQ Inc. today announced that Bratz™ Girlz Really Rock is currently in development and is expected to release on Wii™, PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system and Nintendo DS™ this fall. Based on the upcoming doll line and animated movie of the same name, the game will feature an exciting story line and a full range of activities including live music performances, a makeover station with the latest make-up and hairstyling choices, a fashion design suite as well as skydiving and miniature golf to play with a friend.    


The upcoming release of Bratz Girlz Really Rock will mark the seventh title released under THQ’s worldwide interactive agreement with MGA Entertainment, the manufacturers of the widely popular Bratz™ dolls. The Bratz™ video game portfolio from THQ has enjoyed much success, with life-to-date sales making it one of the top-selling girls gaming franchises of all time.    


About Bratz Girlz Really Rock    


In the Bratz Girlz Really Rock video game, fans can play as Cloe™, Jade™, Sasha™ or Yasmin™ as they glam it up at Camp Starshine, a summer camp for the performing arts. When the girls befriend an accomplished ballerina, they join together for the performance of a lifetime in the camp talent competition. Players can practice in the recording studio or go on stage for a live guitar or keyboard performance of music from the DVD movie soundtrack. The makeover station provides players with realistic lipstick tubes and blush brushes to apply the latest make-up trends as well as cut, color and curling options for new hairstyles. Exciting new mini-games include skydiving in chic aerial poses, miniature golfing across up to 18 holes, playing the guitar or keyboard in a recording studio or live on stage, as well as dancing in a studio or performing on stage.


13
TalkBack / POP CUTIE! DS Brings Tokyo Street Fashion Stateside
« on: June 16, 2008, 04:37:43 PM »
Manage your own fashion store and create the best combinations for your trendsetting clientele.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=16167

 POP CUTIE! Street Fashion Simulation will feature a diverse mix of Tokyo street style and cosplay, along with player's original creations.  Simulation gameplay consists of running a clothing store and spotting the latest trends to gain notoriety in the industry.  "As the game's shop owner you'll compete against rival designers, hire models and staff, design new items, all in search of the ultimate fashion trend," said Amos Ip, Senior Vice President for KOEI Corporation.    


Play begins in a flea market, but after taking to the streets, players spot the latest trends and translate them into what sells.  With hard work and an eye for fashion, players build their own shop where all the street style trendsetters stop to shop.  Contests called "Fashion Battles" will determine your ranking among the city's fashion set.  Local Wi-Fi play allows two players to have their own "Fashion Battles."    


POP CUTIE! Street Fashion Simulation will be available in September.    


  POP CUTIE! STREET FASHION SIMULATION™ BRINGS STREET STYLE TO THE NINTENDO DS    


KOEI gives fashion trendsetters control of the streets with a shop management and style simulation game exclusively for the Nintendo DS this September 2008.
   


Burlingame, CA - June 16, 2008 - KOEI, recognized worldwide as the premier brand of strategy and simulation games, announced today that the company is preparing to bring POP CUTIE! Street Fashion Simulation™ to North America this September 2008. The game will be available exclusively for the Nintendo DS.      


"POP CUTIE! Street Fashion Simulation brings together an eclectic mix of Tokyo street style, cosplay (costume play), fashion design and trend hunting to create a game that's part retail management simulation and part style exploration," said Amos Ip, Senior Vice President for KOEI Corporation. "As the game's shop owner you'll compete against rival designers, hire models and staff, design new items, all in search of the ultimate fashion trend."    


About POP CUTIE! Street Fashion Simulation  POP CUTIE! Street Fashion Simulation is a game where players manage the day-to-day happenings of their very own fashion boutique. They'll hire models and assistants, choose the look and music for their shop, run the cash register and even place magazine ads. Best of all, they'll take to the streets and meet different characters in search of up-and-coming trends. Players will then use this inspiration in their studios where they'll create new clothes, accessories and even hairstyles. However, other shop owners are also prowling the streets looking for the next big thing.    


Players will start the game as an independent designer with a small shop at a flea market. As players progress, they'll move into larger boutiques. The competition against rival shop owners culminates in a 'Fashion Battle,' where a panel of judges will decide if a player's style has enough cute or enough cool to become all the rage.    


By gathering 'images' from people on the street and combining them, players will create clothing lines ranging from the conventional to the most outrageous trends from the streets of Tokyo. A simple touch interface allows players to consider color and shape combinations on the bottom screen while reviewing the actual design on the upper screen. Using Nintendo DS Multi-Card Wireless Play, up to two friends can challenge each other in fabulous Fashion Battles.    


Developed by KOEI Co., Ltd, POP CUTIE! Street Fashion Simulation is for 1 to 2 players. This game is not yet rated by the ESRB.


14
Brave: Shaman's Challenge is a coming of age strategy game developed around Native America mythology.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=16166

 SouthPeak Games have announced that Brave: Shaman's Challenge is coming to the Nintendo DS this summer.  Shaman's Challenge is a story driven puzzle game that follows Brave, a young Native American, in a quest to save his tribe.  "There have been some great games released in this subgenre recently, but Brave: Shaman's Challenge aims to raise the bar," says Melanie Mroz, CEO of SouthPeak.    


Brave must master Shamanic Arts, learn new powers, and explore dangerous territories.  Collision Studios, the game's developer, promises "a cast of intriguing characters, a richly developed game world, and more puzzles than you can shake a shaman's stick at!"  SouthPeak hopes the variety of gameplay, difficult puzzles, and rewarding storyline translates to something "fans will be able to get into instantly."    


  SOUTHPEAK GETS SPIRITUAL WITH "BRAVE: SHAMAN'S CHALLENGE"    


Fast-Paced Action Puzzler Coming to Nintendo DS
   


London, UK – June 11th, 2008 – SouthPeak Games has announced the upcoming release of "Brave: Shaman's Challenge" for Nintendo DS™ this summer. The title is a puzzle game with an intricate storyline and thoughtful, strategic gameplay. Taking place in a land called Native America, "Brave: Shaman's Challenge" follows a young boy named Brave in his quest to protect everything he holds dear.    


"The Nintendo DS is an outstanding platform for a story driven puzzle game," said Melanie Mroz, CEO of SouthPeak Games. "There have been some great games released in this subgenre recently, but Brave: Shaman's Challenge aims to raise the bar."    


Developed by Collision Studios, "Brave: Shaman's Challenge" features a cast of intriguing characters, a richly developed game world, and more puzzles than you can shake a shaman's stick at! As Brave progresses in his mission he encounters friends and mentors from the past, as well as a slew of new faces. He must master Shamanic Arts, learn new powers, and explore dangerous territories.    


"With all the magic spells, story elements, and various types of gameplay Shaman's Challenge is shaping up to be a considerably deep puzzle game," said John Kaiser III, Creative Manager of Product Development for SouthPeak Games. "We want to leverage the unique controls of the platform to create an instinctive, engaging gameplay experience that fans will be able to get into instantly."


15
TalkBack / Ubisoft Ships Emergency Heroes for Wii
« on: June 16, 2008, 08:28:58 AM »
Enter Ubisoft's anti-GTA game where you pick from playing as a police officer, firefighter, or EMT.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=16165

 Ubisoft's Emergency Heroes for Wii is now available in retailers nationwide.  Players can choose to play as a police officer, firefighter, or EMT, each with their own futuristic vehicles.  The game sports 48 different racers with a design corresponding to each heroic profession.  Players travel the city of San Alto in real-time, navigating street to street, protecting citizenry along the way, and racing to the scene of the next crime.  Ubisoft promises family friendly, accessible control via the Wii Wheel but still plans to make Emergency Heroes a fast-paced racing action experience.    


  UBISOFT'S EMERGENCY HEROES™ VIDEO GAME FOR Wii™ ROLLS INTO RETAIL    


Young Rescuers Save the Day in New Wii™ Video Game
   


SAN FRANCISCO – June 12, 2008 – Today Ubisoft announced that Emergency Heroes has shipped to retailers nationwide and is available exclusively for the Wii™ home video game system from Nintendo. Developed by Ubisoft Reflections and Ubisoft Barcelona, Emergency Heroes is an open-world rescue driving game where young rescuers can jump into 48 different variations of next-generation rescue vehicles as a police officer, firefighter or EMT and navigate through the sprawling streets of San Alto, keeping citizens safe along the way. Emergency Heroes is rated "E-10+" and has an MSRP of $39.99.    


Key Features:    


Drive the next generation of rescue vehicles. Pilot and command numerous high-tech rescue vehicles designed specifically for ultra-high-risk, high-speed navigation. Choose between police, fire and EMT vehicles.    


Explore and protect the entire city. As an emergency hero, your mission is to protect the peaceful city of San Alto. Drive through stunning free-roaming open environments, rescuing the city from imminent danger at every turn.    


Fun for the whole family. Making full use of the Wii Remote™, everyone in the family can enjoy being an emergency hero.    


Fast-action gameplay. Take advantage of Hero Mode and play like you mean it – the faster you drive, the faster you rise and gain access to powers of invincibility.


16
TalkBack / Nintendo Sues Nyko Over Knock-off Nunchuk
« on: June 15, 2008, 04:11:10 PM »
Nintendo claims the Nyko Kama Wireless Nunchuk accessory infringes on their intellectual property rights, wants product pulled and cash.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=16152

 Nintendo believes the Nyko Kama Wireless Nunchuk "wholly appropriates the novel shape, design, overall appearance and even the color and materials used in the Nintendo Nunchuk controller."    


Nyko creates a variety of Wii accessories and seems stunned and confused by the suit.  "We have not knowingly violated anyone's intellectual property and we're still examining this," said Nyko spokesman CC Swiney on Thursday.  The Kama Nunchuk generally costs 50% more than the genuine Nintendo Nunchuk.    


Nintendo filed suit in federal court in Seattle June 10.  This is the first time Nintendo has sued over an accessory for their well-liked Wii system.  Nintendo is seeking a court injunction to stop the sale of the wireless controller and a cash settlement in an unspecified amount.    


"While Nintendo supports the creations of innovation games and products used with our game systems, we cannot allow third parties to infringe our intellectual property rights," said Denise Kaigler, Vice President of Nintendo of America.  No word yet if Nintendo plans to sue other companies that produce wireless nunchuk accessories.


17
"Too many Wii owners have been told that the Wii is a casual platform," says High Voltage, "With The Conduit, we intend to prove that theory wrong."
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=16150

 The Conduit is a first-person shooter that promises to provide "some of the best visuals seen to date on Nintendo's Wii."  Using the Quantum 3 Gaming Engine technology, High Voltage Software will mix fast and fluid gameplay with advanced graphics for a "true next-generation gaming platform."  The shooter will also sport an online multiplayer function.  High Voltage is already claiming that their proprietary engine supports such features as real-time water reflection and different texture compositions such as gloss and bump mapping.    


"Conduit was especially designed for the Nintendo Wii," says Matt Corso, Creative Director at High Voltage, "From the weapons to armory and graphics, we tailored everything to the Wii which sets this game play apart from anything else on the market right now."  Adds founder and CEO Kerry J. Ganofsky, "We've invested heavily in our technology to make certain that potential is realized with The Conduit."    


You play as Secret Service Agent Ford, mastering each of your various weapons, to defeat terrifying aliens (sporting advanced AI) and the conspiracy surrounding the strange events.  There is also an "All Seeing Eye" function that you will use to solve puzzles and defeat certain enemies.  High Voltage will search for the right publisher to put this "high potential" hardcore shooter on Wii by Q1 2009.    


"Too many Wii owners have been told that the Wii is a casual platform with no room for serious games or top-tier graphics," said Eric Nofsinger, Chief Creative Officer at High Voltage. "With The Conduit, we intend to prove that theory wrong by providing gamers with the kind of title they imagined back when the platform was first announced."    


  High Voltage Software announces new first-person shooter for the Wii    


Hoffman Estates, IL – June 10, 2008 - High Voltage Software, Inc., one of the world's largest independent developers, today officially announced The Conduit, a stunning first-person action shooter that promises to provide some of the best visuals seen to date on Nintendo's Wii gaming console, for Q1 2009 release.    


Using their proprietary Quantum 3 Game Engine technology, the team at High Voltage Software is fusing fast and fluid gameplay with an advanced set of visuals intended to squarely establish the Wii as a true next-generation gaming platform. The first-person shooter boasts a competitive online multiplayer component and a thrilling single-player campaign. Advanced graphical features include dynamic environment mapping, interactive water with real-time reflection, and four-stage texture composition including gloss, diffuse, and bump mapping.    


"Too many Wii owners have been told that the Wii is a casual platform with no room for serious games or top-tier graphics," said Eric Nofsinger, Chief Creative Officer at High Voltage Software. "With The Conduit, we intend to prove that theory wrong by providing gamers with the kind of title they imagined back when the platform was first announced."    


Featuring terrifying alien creatures, an advanced Artificial Intelligence System, and a rich, conspiracy-laden story, The Conduit has more than a pretty face. "The Wii has tremendous potential," said Kerry J. Ganofsky, CEO and founder of High Voltage Software. "We've invested heavily in our technology to make certain that potential is realized with The Conduit."    


The Conduit's control scheme was carefully designed from the ground up with the Wii in mind, as were each of the weapons in the extensive armory, providing gameplay not possible on other platforms. As Secret Service Agent Ford, you must learn to master each of these weapons as well as the special "All Seeing Eye" device to defeat enemies, solve puzzles, and unravel the game's mysteries.    


"Conduit was especially designed for the Nintendo Wii" states Matt Corso, Creative Director at High Voltage Software. "From the weapons to armory and graphics, we tailored everything to the Wii which sets this game play apart from anything else on the market right now."    


Publisher excitement and interest in The Conduit has been overwhelming. High Voltage Software will continue to search for the perfect partner to ensure The Conduit’s success.    


The Conduit is tentatively scheduled for release in Q1 2009 exclusively for the Nintendo Wii.


18
TalkBack / DS Shooter Zombie BBQ Microsite Launches
« on: June 14, 2008, 01:48:38 AM »
Can you help Little Red Riding Hood stop a zombie invasion?  Check out more details for this bizarre Halloween release on Gammick Entertainment's microsite.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=16149

 What was once a fairytale is quickly becoming a nightmare.  Little Red Riding Hood's Zombie BBQ is set for 2008 Halloween release.  The game follows Little Red Riding Hood as she attempts to save fairytale land from a zombie invasion.  She will be supported by Japanese folktale hero Peach Boy Momotaro and both playable characters will tote heavy weaponry like machine guns, sawed-off shotguns, and even a flamethrower referred to as the "Zombie BBQer."  They'll need it, going up against the likes of undead Granny, Pinocchio, Gretel, Sleeping Beauty and many other story time favorites turned zombies.    


Gammick Entertainment recently launched a microsite with more gory details:   http://www.gammickentertainment.com/zombie/>www.gammickentertainment.com/zombie.    


  NEW MICROSITE AND SCREENSHOTS OF LITTLE RED RIDING HOOD'S ZOMBIE BBQ    


Barcelona, June 9, 2008 - Gammick Entertainment and Enjoy Up present the new microsite of Little Red Riding Hood’s Zombie BBQ, along with new screenshots.    


After finishing with a ferocious wolf, the story ended and the nightmare began. Little "Ready to Rock" Riding Hood and her friend Momotaro face the greatest threat that has ever besieged folk tales.    


Go to www.gammickentertainment.com/zombie/ and discover why Granny has become a horrible green monster, why Pinoccio is now a blood thirsty cyborg, or how Prince Charming woke up Sleeping Beauty… along with her thirst for blood!    


Can you save fairy tale land or will you let its creatures live an unhappily-ever-after-life?


19
TalkBack / Jake Hunter: Detective Chronicles Ships for DS
« on: June 11, 2008, 10:34:25 AM »
Solve three tales of deception in this noir-style detective adventure game.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=16127

 Jake Hunter follows the trend of stylus-driven interactive adventure games for the DS.  You play as Jake Hunter, a private detective, and must hone your skills by interviewing witnesses, searching for clues, and following up on leads.  Jake Hunter: Detective Chronicles ships stateside June 10.    


The game will feature three separate stories, each with unique obstacles and challenging puzzles.  "Just like a detective novel, Jake Hunter: Detective Chronicles has all the mystery, murder, and betrayal you could ever want in a detective game," says Bo deWindt, Project Lead, Aksys Games. "Whether you're playing from the comfort of your own home or riding on the bus, Jake Hunter: Detective Chronicles is the ultimate interactive story-on-the-go."    


  JAKE HUNTER: DETECTIVE CHRONICLES arrives at retail exclusively for NINTENDO DS today!    


Three tales of deception, one man to solve them all…
   


Torrance, CA (June 10, 2008) – Aksys Games, a publisher of interactive entertainment software has shipped Jake Hunter: Detective Chronicles, an interactive digital novel, exclusively for Nintendo DS™ to retail today. Jake Hunter takes players into the intriguing world of criminal investigation and tests their wits with high tension scenarios.     "Just like a detective novel, Jake Hunter: Detective Chronicles has all the mystery, murder, and betrayal you could ever want in a detective game," said Bo deWindt, Project Lead, Aksys Games. "Whether you're playing from the comfort of your own home or riding on the bus, Jake Hunter: Detective Chronicles is the ultimate interactive story-on-the-go."
     


Jake Hunter: Detective Chronicles Key Features:    


Hone your detective skills by interviewing witnesses, uncovering clues, and following leads, all helping to bring you closer to the truth!    


Experience three unique murder mysteries as Detective Jake Hunter!    


Episode 1 – The Petty Murder of a Fragile Heart    


A murder has taken place in Aspicio City’s peaceful Central Park. Jake’s longtime friend, Detective Scott Kingsley, implores Jake to help solve the case. Can Jake uncover the killer’s true motive?    


Episode 2 – Seaside City Conspiracy    


On a quiet night, Jake gets a call out of the blue as a hysterical man pleads with Jake to find his missing girlfriend, Eva, in the harbor city of Depono. What seemed to be a routine missing persons case, will lead him down a dark path of deception...    


Episode 3 – Crash and Burn    


A story about love, betrayal and death in the fast lane. Jake Hunter’s skills will be put to the test, as he attempts to solve a murder case at the top racing circuit in Ceteri, where rivals, ex-lovers and friends are all suspects.    


Jake Hunter: Detective Chronicles has been rated “T” for Teen by the ESRB.


20
TalkBack / Driving Theory Training Assists UK Drivers in August
« on: June 11, 2008, 02:24:44 AM »
Atari UK teams with auto company Renault UK for driving test study-aid.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=16125

 Renault UK will be the official car manufacturer featured in the Driving Theory Training mini-games.  The DS release, due out in August, will feature practice tests in accordance with driving standards in the UK.  Renault's automobiles will also be featured in the "learn about your car" section of the educational game.  Driving Theory Training is intended for provisional license holders and simulates the theory section of the actual test given by the DSA (Driving Standards Agency).    


"We’re very pleased at the feedback we’ve been getting on this title," said Lee Kirton, Head of PR for Atari UK, "And it will most definitely help those that need that added support for their theory exam as well as assist current drivers who want to brush up on their skills."    


  Driving Theory Training - Renault UK    


Atari UK have teamed up with Renault UK for 'Driving Theory Training' on Nintendo DS.
   


Renault will be the official car manufacturer featured in the driving mini games. Their cars will also feature in the 'learn about your car' section of the application.    


This will be the first time that the Nintendo DS has been used as a new media device to help learners study and simulate the actual test. Driving Theory Training is aimed at provisional license holders who need that little extra help to be successful when the day of the real test comes around and offers valuable help to anyone who’s learning to drive.    


Available in August 2008, Driving Theory Training will feature driving theory questions and answers officially licensed by the DSA (Driving Standards Agency). In addition to a full theory test based on the real life exam, learners can benefit from revision, graphs, mini games and questions and answers relating to vehicles. The application also features the full Highway-code, ways to learn and revise as well as fun games to entertain whilst stimulating the mind.    


"We’re very pleased at the feedback we’ve been getting on this title, and it will most definitely help those that need that added support for their theory exam as well as assist current drivers who want to brush up on their skills." Lee Kirton 'Head of UK PR' Atari UK    


Driving Theory Training is on sale August 29th for Nintendo DS.


21
TalkBack / The Sims 2 Apartment Pets Announced for DS
« on: June 09, 2008, 08:57:16 PM »
Electronic Art's label The Sims will release the pet simulation spin-off August 26.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=16114

 The Sims 2 Apartment Pets lets players place Sims in their own apartment with an assortment of pets.  Just downstairs from the apartment is a pet spa where pets can be pampered and the player can interact with a variety of different animals.      


The list of confirmed apartment pets so far: cats, dogs, snakes, hamsters, birds, and rabbits.  You are rewarded with Simoleans for the proper care of your pets.  You can use them to purchase accessories for your pets, furnish your apartment, or pay for services at the spa.    


Players will use the Touch Screen and stylus to play mini-games to unlock new objects for their pets and apartment.  The game will feature interactive controls, such as singing into the microphone to charm a snake.  Caring for each animal will be different and players will also be able to buy specific items to make the happiest possible pet.  Get ready to care for a brand new apartment full of pets on August 22 in Europe and Asia, and on August 26 in North America.    


  The Sims Label Announces The Sims 2 Apartment Life Expansion Pack and The Sims 2 Apartment Pets Exclusively for Nintendo DS    


In August, the Apartment Is Where it’s All Happening!
   


REDWOOD CITY, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Sims™, an Electronic Arts Inc. Label, today announced the first details for The Sims 2 Apartment Life for the PC, and The Sims 2 Apartment Pets exclusively for the Nintendo DS™. The Sims 2 Apartment Life brings the adventure, fun and drama of close quarters of apartment living to your Sims. Launching simultaneously, The Sims 2 Apartment Pets places your Sims in their very own apartment with a variety of pets. Also, just downstairs from your Sims apartment is their own pet spa where they must take good care of a variety of visiting animals, including their own personal pets. Both titles are slated for launch on August 26 in North America and August 22 in European and Asia-Pacific regions.    


  The Sims 2 Apartment Life Expansion Pack® for the PC    


This expansion pack for The Sims 2 takes your Sims out of the suburbs and into a brand new busy apartment building!  Adventure, fun, and drama await them as they explore their new neighborhood, mingle in coffee shops, visit a playground, meet new friends, and much more.  Because there is now the ability to control multiple households in The Sims 2 Apartment Life, your Sims can live in happy harmony, or comical conflict.      


New social networks and character types, including artsy bohemians, sports jocks, gadget-loving techies, and edgy gearheads spice up your Sims life.  And, with a new reputation meter, your Sims can build up the respect they deserve from other Sims to be the most admired – or least-desired -Sim in the neighborhood.  The better the reputation, the easier for your Sims to find the right friends to help them achieve their goals.    


Make your Sims’ space look great in The Sims 2 Apartment Life!  Five new building types that range from converted lofts to roomy and posh studios or luxury apartments with their own butler add to the creative and customized adventure.  Enjoy a myriad of new decor options, including spiral staircases and lofty, high ceilings.  Your Sims will get a whole new kind of experience through the drama of close quarters living!    


  The Sims 2 Apartment Pets for Nintendo DS™    


In your Sim’s new apartment adventure on the Nintendo DS, care for a variety of local pets, including loveable cats and dogs, slithery snakes, hamsters, colorful birds, and cuddly rabbits to make sure they receive the right treatment so that they stay happy, healthy and good looking.  Simoleans earned can be used to furnish the perfect apartment and buy fun pet accessories like hats, shoes and toys.  Players can use the Nintendo DS touch screen and stylus to play cool mini games and unlock new objects for their Sim and their pets.  And in one mini game you can charm a snake by blowing into the Nintendo DS microphone, which serves as your musical instrument.      


"The Sims 2 Apartment Life and The Sims 2 Apartment Pets are two new entertainment experiences that put your Sims in the midst of all the drama and humor of busy apartment life," said Rod Humble, Head of Studio for The Sims Label. "These two games reflect an aspect of real life that players can relate to, and now for the first time, their Sims can explore that same lifestyle in The Sims 2 Apartment Life on the PC and make pets part of the fun in The Sims 2 Apartment Pets for the Nintendo DS."    


   Bring on the night and celebrate with your Sims!  Also shipping in August, is The Sims™ 2 Apartment Life Limited Collection, which includes The Sims 2 Apartment Life and The Sims 2 Double Deluxe (which consists of The Sims 2, The Sims 2 Nightlife Expansion Pack, The Sims 2 Celebration Stuff and a video DVD with a host of tips and tricks).  A great value to get your apartment life started, coming in August, 2008!


22
TalkBack / Oxygen Announces MyGames Series for DS
« on: June 07, 2008, 10:52:25 AM »
These games for young girls set for Q3 release. Ubisoft, eat your heart out.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=16106

 Oxygen Games will publish three games for the Nintendo DS aimed at young female gamers, or at least those who will enjoy the frills undoubtedly entailed in My Make-Up, My Dress-Up, and My Secret Diary.      


Through the DS, players will get to play with virtual make-up and have make-over parties, test outfit combinations and design new clothes, or update and play in a password-protected secret diary. Players can even wirelessly connect the My Make-Up and My Dress-Up game for a full virtual make-over. There is multiplayer interaction and a chat feature included in each game. In addition, the wireless MyGames Chat works across all three games, so it is not necessary to own the same version in the series to chat with your friends.    


  Oxygen unveils first three titles in new 'MyGames' series    


My Make-Up, My Dress-Up and My Secret Diary for Nintendo DS™ - Games for girls from Oxygen's MyGames series.
   


NORTHAMPTONSHIRE, ENGLAND, June 5th, 2008 – Oxygen Games is pleased to unveil the first three titles in their MyGames series My Make-Up, My Dress-Up and My Secret Diary. Carefully crafted to suit the needs of the young and teenage gaming market, MyGames brings together personal and friendly content with real-life concepts to provide compelling entertainment for both solo and social play. The three titles, My Make-Up, My Dress-Up and My Secret Diary, aim exclusively at providing unique gaming entertainment for the young female gamer and are releasing for Nintendo DS in Q3 2008.    


My Make-Up offers players their very own make-up box on Nintendo DS, where they can makeover, pamper and facepaint themselves and their friends. My Dress-Up offers players Dressing-Up, Fashion and Design for themselves and their friends, with their very own dressing-up Box. My Secret Diary provides a place to store their secrets, keep a journal and have fun with mini-games, or send secret messages and event invitations to keep in touch with their friends. With the added benefit of all games working together with exclusive 'MyGames Chat' feature – My Make-Up, My Dress-Up and My Secret Diary will be hitting shelves in Q3 2008.


23
TalkBack / 'Wii Would Like to Play' Ad Campaign Wins Effie Award
« on: June 07, 2008, 10:38:01 AM »
Highest honor in marketing bestowed to Leo Burnett's Nintendo Wii ads.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=16102

 The 40th Annual Effie Awards were presented this week in New York City.  Nintendo's "Wii Would Like to Play" campaign won the highest honor.  Agencies Leo Burnett, Starcom Worldwide, and Golin Harris led the marketing campaign and won the Grand Effie for the "most effective" marketing of the year.    


Nintendo's "Wii Would Like to Play" campaign tried appealing to a new audience, the casual gamer and family gamer, instead of focusing on the traditional young male demographic.  The gamble paid off: the ads had definite resonance.  "Leo Burnett’s marketing strategy for the Wii will forever change the gaming industry and its dialogue with consumers," said Deborah Meyer, Chair of the Grand Effie Jury.    


The strategic challenge, idea behind the campaign, and bringing the ads to life comprise 70% of the award scoring. The remaining 30% is based on the effectiveness of the campaign.  The risks that the "Wii Would Like to Play" campaign embodied may be a sign of the times, but is no less laudable.  "Effie's 40th anniversary comes at a time of economic recession, when clients and agencies are striving for what the Effies stand for – results," said Mary Lee Keane, Executive Director of the awards.  "The most memorable Effie winners from the last 40 years were also the most creative and innovative, proving that playing it safe isn't always the most effective approach."


24
TalkBack / Lexicon and TF-H Team for New Wii, DS Titles
« on: June 04, 2008, 05:02:08 PM »
The UK publisher and Chinese game developer announced a two-year agreement for original concept titles.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=16088

 Video game publisher Lexicon and game developer TG-H Co., Ltd announced a two-year partnership to bring a number of new gaming concepts to the worldwide market.  The joint venture will create titles for the Nintendo DS, Wii, and PlayStation 3 exclusively.    


The first title the team will produce is called Matchman.  The game is a frantic side-scrolling shooter with a black and white color scheme.  Some of the creative innovations include a Commuter mode for the DS version, so you can play one-handed and still have your morning coffee.  Matchman will come to DS in Q1, followed by the Wii version in Q2.    


  LEXICON ENTERTAINMENT AND TF-H CO LTD ANNOUNCE 2 YEAR PARTNERSHIP TO DEVELOP AND PUBLISH NEW IP    


Sheffield, England – May 30th, 2008 – Video games publisher Lexicon Entertainment and talented Chinese games developer TF-H Co Ltd have announced a 2 year agreement which will see the two companies bring a number of new IP to Nintendo DS, Nintendo Wii and PlayStation 3 for a worldwide audience.    


First on the horizon as part of this exciting partnership is the firms wholly owned IP 'Matchman' which will be released on Nintendo DS in Q1 2009 followed by Nintendo Wii and PlayStation 3 in Q2 and 3 respectively.    


Christopher Allcroft, President of Publishing for Lexicon Entertainment UK Ltd said "This partnership with TF-H Co Ltd is another piece of our jigsaw which will see new IP on cross platforms being released all over the world and will also expand our collaboration within Asian territory. TF-H Co Ltd are a dedicated and extremely talented bunch of developers and we look forward to developing and publishing this exciting IP for the next 2 years."    


Steven Shao of TF-H Co Ltd quoted "We are extremely excited about this partnership with Lexicon Entertainment and the development of 'Matchman' on cross platforms.  'Matchman' has been carefully chosen to suit the correct audience and working with Lexicon Entertainment will enable users around the world to enjoy it as much as we do!"    


'Matchman' is a side scrolling shooter involving extraordinary graphics, manipulation and creative features. The graphic style is consisted by black and white line drawing, and the script is based on a combination of some classical fairytales such as Grimm's and Anderson’s fairytales. In the script, there are many humorous factors. The black and white style will bring you the feel of an old school comic, which will attract audiences from different age groups.    


One of the special features is the unconventional means to knock through some of scenario. In this case, you’re not going to kill bosses directly. For instance, conventionally you kill monsters by using weapons; but to kill an evil bird named "Baba Yaga," you need to throw apples and feed it until its stomach bursts! Another feature is about manipulation. Within the game is a mode called Commuter, specially designed for people on public transport commuting to the office. These people can use a single hand to operate the console and the other to enjoy a soothing cuppa!


25
Wii moves ahead on The Times' list of "Coolest Gadgets."
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=16054

 The South African Times recently announced its yearly special of the "Coolest Gadgets for the Young."  Apple's iPod was number one on the list, followed by the PlayStation 3, then Xbox 360, with the Wii in fourth place.  This is especially interesting considering the Wii has 51% of the local market share and so outselling the rival consoles combined, according to The Times.    


With a majority of the local market share, Nintendo's ranking is a matter of taste, and could be affected by an unknown number of affluent youth who often opt for higher priced, cutting-edge technology.  Nintendo's share and ranking is also impressive because of the excessive delays in launching the system in South Africa.  The Wii launched in mid-October of 2007 but has exceeded expectations.    


"It’s popular with youngsters and older people because of its ability to translate a player’s physical movement onto a screen. This is not just a machine for hardcore gamers (which tend to be young males); it takes video gaming beyond that select group. Adults love it too," says Liesl Loubser, CEO of HDI Youth Marketeers.    


The Times special found the common theme of the year was an increased desire for "multifunctional" gadgets (PSP was number five).  The Times' Greg Gordon concluded the article with certainty, "And it doesn’t take a soothsayer to see that Nintendo’s Wii console will climb the chart in the year ahead."


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