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[Nintendo's E3 website reveals a few things and clears up a couple of mysteries regarding the sequel to Pikmin.]

5301

TalkBack / More Pikmin 2 Info

« on: April 23, 2003, 05:57:10 AM »

Nintendo's E3 website reveals a few things and clears up a couple of mysteries regarding the sequel to Pikmin.

Nintendo of America's new website for E3 2003 contains a Pikmin 2 feature, in which a few bits of are dropped.

The story has Captain Olimar returning to the Pikmin's world, this time voluntarily.  His business is going under, and he needs to dig up treasures to pull out of his debt.  Olimar has brought along an assistant, already seen in screenshots, to help save the company.  This assistant is still not being called by name at NOA.

The feature goes on to clarify some gameplay details too.  As we expected from the first batch of screenshots, there is a two-player cooperative mode in which each player controls one of the spacemen.  In the single-player mode, you'll switch between them, possibly for Lost Vikings-style shenanigans.   Another huge departure from the original is that there is no time limit in Pikmin 2.  Presumably, there will still be a day-night cycle, but players will no longer be restricted to thirty days in which to beat the game.  It's currently unclear how the game will balance out this change, whether it be more complex tasks, harder enemies, more levels, etc.

Of course, you couldn't expect a Pikmin sequel to leave out new colors of Pikmin, new enemies, and new types of environments.  All are present, as you'll see in the new screenshots.

[Factor 5's newest Star Wars game is packing tons of new gameplay features, including two-player cooperative missions.]

5302

TalkBack / First Rogue Squadron III Details, Screens

« on: April 22, 2003, 12:22:30 PM »

Factor 5's newest Star Wars game is packing tons of new gameplay features, including two-player cooperative missions.

Today, the June issue of Electronic Gaming Monthly is expected to arrive in the hands of a few lucky subscribers.  We'll have more info on the issue's top story, Star Wars: Rogue Squadron III: Rebel Strike, later on.  However, EGM's online partner, Gamers.com, has posted the first info and screens already.

Stop reading and click the link above to see their exclusive info and screens.

Done?  Good, then let's get into the details.  Two major new gameplay features are prevalent in the screenshots.  First, there is a two-player mode.  Info from Gamers.com suggests that it is a cooperative mode that allows you to play through the missions in Rogue Leader, the previous Star Wars game from Factor 5.  It is unknown whether the new missions will also be enabled for multiple players.

It's also quite evident that players can now climb out of their vehicles and perform tasks on foot.  Factor 5 tinkered with third-person gameplay in Rogue Leader, by allowing you to control your pilot in the hangar when choosing a ship for each mission.  Details are of course scarce at the moment, but it seems you can now exit your craft at any time during planetary missions, and presumably you can run over to another vehicle as well as fight with blaster and/or lightsaber on foot.  One screen even depicts Luke Skywalker climbing up to the underbelly of a giant AT-AT walker to cut out its insides, just like in the movies.

There are also new vehicles to pilot, including a speeder bike for a mission on what appears to be the forest moon of Endor, as well as an AT-ST walker in the same environment.  Obviously, some Imperial vehicles will finally be at our disposal.  Other screens show a Rebel fighter riding a Taun Taun on Hoth and Chewbacca fighting Stormtroopers inside a ship, but those screens appear to be taken from cinema scenes, judging by their lack of on-screen displays for health, weapons, etc.

Graphically, Rogue Squadron III: Rebel Strike looks to be properly upgraded from its predecessor, although a few areas are still obviously unfinished.  One screenshot shows an X-Wing flying into a horde of Imperial craft; there are at least fifty (we counted) TIE Fighters, Interceptors, Bombers, and Gunboats on-screen at once.

We'll have more information on this game as soon as it becomes available, and of course, more impressions than are probably necessary once E3 begins next month.

5303

TalkBack / Watch Movies On GBA

« on: April 22, 2003, 07:07:15 AM »

Actually, you may only be able to use MP3s that you buy from the content provider.  The press release isn't clear, but it does say they are cooperating with digital copyright protection stuff, so I would not be surprised if the device won't let you import your personal files, MP3 or MPEG or whatever.

[You won't exactly get DVD quality, but now you can enjoy The Beverly Hillbillies, Madeline, and Natural Born Killers on your little GBA screen.]

5304

TalkBack / Watch Movies On GBA

« on: April 21, 2003, 09:31:59 AM »

You won't exactly get DVD quality, but now you can enjoy The Beverly Hillbillies, Madeline, and Natural Born Killers on your little GBA screen.

PORTABLE MEDIA DEVICES, INC A POCKET PC FILMS, INC COMPANY & POCKETAINMENT JOIN FORCES TO LAUNCH GAME BOY VIDEO ADAPTOR!

Making its debut at E3 Expo, Cartridge will sell for as low as $39.95 and will enable feature films, music videos and MP3’s to play on Nintendo’s Game Boy Advance and Game Boy Advance SP!!!

Sherman Oaks, CA— (April 21, 2003)— Pocket PC Films, the worldwide leader in multimedia distribution for handheld devices (Pocket PC, Palm OS, PDA’s and portable media devices), today announced that their Portable Media Devices unit has formed a joint venture with Pocketainment, to market and distribute the Pocket Pix Cartridge™, a plug and play adaptor that enables full-length feature films, video, and MP3’s to be played on Nintendo’s Game Boy Advance, and Game Boy Advance SP.

The new adaptor is designed to fit into the device’s plug-in card slot, and operates as easily as swapping out video games.  The units advanced compression software enables it to fit up to 75 minutes of video and audio onto a standard 64MB SD card.  

The cartridge comes equipped with an SD multimedia slot for storage, a 3.5mm stereo headphone jack, stereo headphones, a free sample movie, code to download another free film and a USB port to transfer content.  In addition, the Pocket Pix Cartridge™ comes equipped with its own player, the Pocket Pix Player™, which allows digital video and MP3 music to be played, and also comes equipped with its own codec to transcode other media formats.

Pocket PC Films’ feature film and video product, currently sold at retail on CD-ROM for use on Pocket PC devices, will also play on Game Boy units with the Pocket Pix Cartridge™.  Content is transferred via the USB port using Pocket PC Films’ Smart Transfer Technology™. A few current titles include classic television (“The Beverly Hillbillies”), children’s animation (“Madeline”), theatrical full-length feature films (“The Big Easy,” “Natural Born Killers”), nonfiction (“Xtreme Sports with Tony Hawk,” “Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition 2002”) and educational videos (language and business applications), with prices ranging from $9.99 to $19.99. Pocket PC Films is also in negotiations with 3 major studios to distribute their high profile films available for the Pocket Pix.

The Pocket Pix Cartridge™ will debut at the E3 Expo in Los Angeles, May 13-16 (at the Portable Media Devices booth # 6860), and will hit retail stores shortly thereafter at an MSRP of $59.95.  The retail price includes the Pocket Pix Cartridge™, syncing cable, SD card, a CD-ROM with a sample film and a code to go to the Pocket Pix website to download another free film (the device will also be available minus the SD media card for $39.95 at www.filminhand.com).  In addition, there will be new films released each month for the Pocket Pix.

“We are very excited to be working with Pocketainment,” remarked Darrell Griffin, President and CEO, Pocket PC Films.  “It is a perfect union, which allows us to bridge our complimentary products, while maximizing exposure and market penetration.  With an [Game Boy Advance] installed base in the tens of millions, we are in a good position to attract a significant number of users to expand the capabilities of their device for about the same money as a new game title.”

“The Pocket Pix Cartridge was developed to unite the explosive success of the Game Boy platform with all forms of digital content,” remarked Marcus Krieter, CTO, Pocketainment.  “Pocket PC Films has lead the way in moving content to new, portable platforms; clearly they are the best partners we could have hoped for in this rapidly growing market space”  

Pocket Pix Cartridge Details:

-          Secure Digital (SD) slot

-          Full 15-bit color video at 10 frames per second (any resolution)

-          Full screen at 240 x 160 pixels is supported as well as any aspect ratio including wide screen 16:9 and standard 4:3 formats

-          3.5mm-jack for variable audio quality (mono G.729 to stereo MP3)

-          Integrated USB port to transfer content to SD media

-          Simple User interface (UI) allows for: Play, Stop, Fast Forward/Reverse, Skip Forward and volume controls

-          Size: 57mm x 64mm x 11mm

-          Supports Digital Rights Management

About Pocketainment:

Pocketainment, Inc. is a newly formed subsidiary of Abrams Gentile Entertainment Inc.  Pocketainment (www.pocketainment.com) was formed specifically to develop and manufactures digital content players and other related portable entertainment devices.  Pocketainment will sell products under its own brand as well as license its technology to other OEM’s.  The parent company, Abrams Gentile Group, LLC (www.ageinc.com) along with its subsidiaries, is a full service entertainment, technology and invention company, which develops, creates, and produces youth consumer products and family brand entertainment.  To date, AGE has designed, developed, manufactured and licensed many successful  toys, games and technologies, including Sky Dancers®, the Power Glove®, Dragon Flyz®, KinderGarden Babies®, Rainbow Brite®,  and T-INK® conductive technology collectively, which have generated nearly one billion dollars of retail sales.  AGE has also created and produced over 150 half hours of award-winning children's television programming, including such shows as “Jellybean Jungle,” “Happy Ness: Secret of the Loch,” “Sky Dancers,” “Dragon Flyz,” and “Van-Pires.”

About Portable Media Devices:  

Pocket PC Films, a wholly owned subsidiary of TuneIn Entertainment, LLC, is the first company to put full length feature films into the palm of your hand.  The company provides filmed content to both Pocket PC and Palm OS users through their innovative patent pending Smart Transfer Technology™, which transforms any handheld computer into a mobile theater or business training device. With more than 25,000 titles, the growing Pocket PC Films library includes all types of programming, with product acquired from top producers, including: Lions Gate Entertainment, Nightingale Conant, Zig Ziglar, Spectrum, Grizzly Adams, Solid Entertainment, MRI, Taurus Entertainment, Planet Pictures, and Skip Fredricks Xtreme Sports. Users are able to experience a high-quality multimedia experience at their fingertips, fulfilling the Digital Age promise of watching whatever you want, wherever you are.  For more information, please visit www.pocketpcfilms.com.

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NWR Feedback / Give TEH shout-out to Billeh!!!

« on: April 18, 2003, 11:41:59 AM »

Most people are leaving their notes in Talkback.

[Nintendo's upcoming GameCube demo disc will let you play Viewtiful Joe, among others.]

5306

TalkBack / Demo Disc Contents Revealed

« on: April 16, 2003, 07:53:42 PM »

Nintendo's upcoming GameCube demo disc will let you play Viewtiful Joe, among others.

A piece of promotional art from Nintendo of America has leaked onto the Internet, providing the first information about the upcoming GameCube demo disc.

The four games shown on the cover of the disc's box (which may be tentative) are Sonic Adventure DX: Director's Cut, Splinter Cell, Viewtiful Joe, and Billy Hatcher and the Giant Egg.  There may also be more demos and/or videos not shown on the cover.

We'll have much more coverage on this first-ever GameCube demo disc in North America as soon as it becomes available.

[The SNES masterpiece has been completed in less than two hours.]

5307

TalkBack / World Record Beaten for Zelda: LttP

« on: April 16, 2003, 12:29:22 PM »

The SNES masterpiece has been completed in less than two hours.

According to Twin Galaxies, the world record officiating organization for gaming, someone has beaten The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past in under two hours.  Michael Damiani blazed through the rather lengthy adventure in just 1:57.15 on April 9, 2003.  The previous record was 2:07.10, and some Zelda experts thought it was impossible to break the two-hour mark.

Under Twin Galaxies rules, the clock starts ticking as soon as you press start on the title screen.  You must start a new file and beat the game without dying (fairy revivals are allowed).  The clock stops when the final silver arrow is dealt to Ganon.  Glitches that allow you to skip portions of the game are prohibited.  Here is Damiani's timeline, just to put things in perspective:

0:03.20 - reaches Zelda
0:06.57 - exits Hyrule Castle
0:12:24 - obtains Pendant of Courage
0:20.55 - obtains Pendant of Power
0:27.36 - obtains Pendant of Wisdom
0:29.14 - uses Pendants to obtain Master Sword
0:35.44 - appears on top of Golden Pyramid
0:46.57 - obtains 1st Maiden Gem
1:00.09 - obtains 2nd Maiden Gem
1:08.00 - obtains 3rd Maiden Gem
1:16.07 - obtains 4th Maiden Gem
1:25.08 - obtains 5th Maiden Gem
1:32.40 - obtains 6th Maiden Gem
1:34.35 - purchases "Big Bomb"
1:45.28 - obtains 7th and final Maiden Gem
1:47.04 - sets foot into Ganon's Castle
1:57.15 - delivers final blow via Silver Arrow to Ganon

Along with this remarkable achievement, Damiani also holds the world record time for The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, with 6:45.17.  He eventually wants to hold the records for the entire Zelda series.

[Our very talented artist turns the big 21!]

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TalkBack / Happy Birthday Ryan!

« on: April 15, 2003, 06:45:10 PM »

Our very talented artist turns the big 21!

You may not be familiar with the name Ryan Jones, as he doesn't post much.  But he does work hard as our Staff Artist.  Ryan designs those awesome Flash ads for Video Game Depot, as well as the image links to our top stories on the main page.

Ryan is enjoying the biggest birthday of all today, 21!  If it were before the mid-20th century, he'd now be old enough to vote here in America.  But thanks to a certain Constitutional amendment who we'll not name, the 21st birthday is now pretty much dedicated to drinking and gambling.  So we wish a very happy, safe, and only vaguely recollectable birthday to Mr. Ryan Jones!

[The futuristic racer is on its way to stores.]

5309

TalkBack / NEC Ships Tube Slider

« on: April 15, 2003, 12:47:36 PM »

The futuristic racer is on its way to stores.

NEC Interchannel, Ltd. Ships First Title "Tube Slider"(tm); Exclusive for Nintendo GameCube

SANTA CLARA, CA ¾ (April 15, 2003)¾NEC Interchannel, Ltd., a subsidiary of NEC Corporation, today announced it is shipping Tube Slider, a fast and furious racing game developed exclusively for the Nintendo GameCube( to retailers across North America.  Tube Slider is developed by NDCUBE, creators of the critically acclaimed F-Zero: Maximum Overdrive for the Game Boy(r) Advance. The game's vehicles were designed by Studio 4(C, the animation studio behind the anime classic, Akira.

Tube Slider is a futuristic racing game in which players pilot sleek hovercraft around tubular tracks that twist and turn and test not only your speed, but also your ability to keep your craft in control. Choose between Grand Prix or Free Run modes as you race one of fifteen different tweaked-out vehicles around ten unique and highly detailed elevated courses. The game features an interactive Tutorial mode, and multiplayer for up to four players (split-screen).

Critics are already buzzing about this new addition to the Nintendo GameCube library. According to the latest issue of Play Magazine, "Tube Slider jumps directly to the head of the GameCube racing class placing itself firmly in the pole position waiting for F-Zero to take it on - 4 1/2 stars out of 5."

NDCUBE Co., Ltd. is an official second-party developer to Nintendo, formed through a joint venture between the largest advertising company in Japan, Dentsu, and Nintendo. The company, now based out of Tokyo, was founded on March 1, 2000.

NEC Interchannel, Ltd., an interactive entertainment company headquartered in Tokyo, Japan develops and publishes for video game systems, personal computers and other digital devices. Established as an NEC group company to specialize in planning, development and sales of digital content, in only a short time, NEC Interchannel, Ltd. has built a solid reputation for producing a wide variety of digital content in the areas of culture, education/edutainment, amusement and music. More information about NEC's products and full text of press releases can be found on the Internet at http://www.necgames.com.

[Tactical espionage now available on all systems.]

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TalkBack / Splinter Cell Released for GameCube

« on: April 08, 2003, 06:11:27 PM »

Tactical espionage now available on all systems.

Top Stealth Action Game Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell(tm) Ships for the PlayStation(R)2 Computer Entertainment System and the Nintendo GameCube(tm)

The Most Popular Game for Xbox Now Available on All Consoles!

 

SAN FRANCISCO, CA - April 8, 2003 -   Ubi Soft Entertainment, one of the world's top videogame publishers, today announced that Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell(tm) has shipped for the PlayStation(R)2 computer entertainment system and Nintendo GameCube(tm).  Wildly considered to be the hottest title for the Xbox(tm), Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell is infiltrating the PlayStation 2 and Nintendo GameCube with so much tension-filled stealth action it leaves players gasping for more. When Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell ships for the Nintendo Game Boy(R) Advance later this month, Nintendo fans will be treated to a slew of new features including exclusive levels and gadgets, accessed by connecting the Game Boy Advance and Nintendo GameCube.  

"Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell is sure to impress PlayStation 2 and Nintendo GameCube fans.  It earned its place as console game of the year by providing exclusive content and high quality excitement-filled gameplay experiences regardless of platform," said Tony Kee, vice president of marketing for Ubi Soft Entertainment.  

Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell attained critical and commercial success, and was recently named Console Game of the Year by the Academy of Interactive Arts and Science.  Since its initial release for the Xbox(tm) video game system in November 2002, Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell has gone on to sell more than one million units in North America alone and 600, 000 units in Europe. It boasts an average rating of 94.4 (out of a possible 100), based on a sample of 54 reviews, and was awarded, and was named both IGN.com's and GameSpy's Xbox Game of the Year for 2002. The PlayStation 2 game has been named Electronic Gaming Monthly game of the month for May and was awarded four and a half stars out of five by Official PlayStation Magazine.  

 

Storyline:
You are Sam Fisher. A lone shadow-operative in a world where lost seconds can allow terrorist plans to become deadly reality. You operate in the heart of hostile territory. Spy. Steal. Destroy. Assassinate. Just don't ever be seen. Because when the stakes are this high, the choice between leaving a witness or a corpse is no choice at all.  When two CIA agents mysteriously vanish in the former Soviet republic of Georgia, the NSA's secret sub agency, Third Echelon, deploys Sam Fisher-its most capable splinter cell operative-to recover them. Fisher soon uncovers a deeper conspiracy: a plot that threatens to destabilize the world order and spark nuclear conflict.  

Standout Game Features
-       Covert stealth-action featuring a compelling original storyline and characters drawn from the world of the famous espionage author Tom Clancy.

-       Revolutionary lighting, shadowing, animation, physics, and sound effects create an astonishingly realistic tension-filled experience on the PlayStation 2.

-       Comprehensive stealth techniques including sniping, split jumping, zip lining, rappelling, and using human shields bring awesome gameplay possibilities for the gamer.

-       Experimental intelligence gadgets (night/thermal vision goggles, prototype weapons and surveillance gear, etc.) give Fisher the edge against his enemies.

Only on PlayStation 2!
-       The Powerplant mission features four new exclusive levels, in addition to the 10 existing missions, plus 30 minutes of new cinematics

-       An all new four minute cinematic introduction including music recorded specifically for Splinter Cell by the famous Prague Orchestra.

Connect to the Game Boy Advance to Access Exclusive Content and Features!
-       Once connected to the Nintendo GameCube, the Game Boy Advance can function as a remote extension for Sam's OPSAT (allowing Sam to view his surroundings on a radar-like mini-map) and providing him remote control of computers and weapons, including the wall mine.  

-       Connected-play provides gamers with a brand new weapon exclusive to the Nintendo GameCube-the sticky bomb!   -       Playing through the Nintendo GameCube version will unlock five exclusive levels on the Game Boy Advance.  

Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell carries a "T" (Teen) rating from the ESRB and will have a suggested retail price of $49.99.

[Now that Ms. Croft is on GBA, her new movie would seem to fall under our coverage. So here's news about the sequel's official website.]

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TalkBack / Tomb Raider 2 Movie Site Launches

« on: March 28, 2003, 10:07:14 AM »

Now that Ms. Croft is on GBA, her new movie would seem to fall under our coverage.  So here's news about the sequel's official website.

Lara Croft Tomb Raider: The Cradle of Life has a new website at the link above.  The movie sequel once again stars Angelina Jolie as the beautiful British archaeologist with a knack for getting into trouble.

The website currently contains a brand new teaser trailer, downloadable goodies for your PC, and production stills from the movie's various on-location shooting adventures.  In the coming weeks, it will also feature an interview with Jolie, conducted by professional BMX rider Mat Hoffman, oddly enough.

Lara Croft Tomb Raider: The Cradle of Life hits theaters on July 25.

[Ubi Soft's tactical espionage game is releasing a month earlier than expected.]

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TalkBack / Splinter Cell Moved UP

« on: March 26, 2003, 10:50:27 AM »

Ubi Soft's tactical espionage game is releasing a month earlier than expected.

Today Ubi Soft announced that Splinter Cell for GameCube has been moved up from its original May release date.  The game will now be released April 8, along with the PS2 version.  That's in two weeks!  The GBA version, which links up to the GameCube version for several connectivity features and modes, will be out April 24.  (These are all North American dates.)

We'll have much more on Splinter Cell very soon.  Look for new screenshots later today.

[Gamers in Europe will finally be able to get a Platinum GameCube, as part of a bundle with The Wind Waker.]

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TalkBack / Europe Gets Platinum Zelda Bundle

« on: March 25, 2003, 06:08:46 PM »

Gamers in Europe will finally be able to get a Platinum GameCube, as part of a bundle with The Wind Waker.

A couple of days ago, Cube-Europe reported that European fans will finally be able to purchase the Platinum GameCube.  It seems that the popular color will initially only be offered as part of a bundle with The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker and the Zelda bonus disc (which is being packaged directly with The Wind Waker in Europe).

No word on a price yet, but the bundle is expected to be released on the same day as Zelda in that territory, May 3rd.

Note: this information originally comes from Gaming-Universe, but we're also giving credit to Cube-Europe since they translated it into English.

[This time, it's Naki entering the fray with their own set of GBA SP accessories.]

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TalkBack / Naki Announces GBA SP Lineup

« on: March 25, 2003, 08:09:55 AM »

This time, it's Naki entering the fray with their own set of GBA SP accessories.

New From Naki Silver Series™: Naki Announces All-New GBA SP™ Line Up  

BALDWIN PARK, CA – March 25, 2003 – Naki International, videogame accessories manufacturer, announces their opening line of GBA SP accessories, the newest category to debut from their Naki Silver Series brand of products.  Naki’s GBA SP line is available now in certain retailers, with broader distribution in coming weeks.  The announcement comes at a pivotal time with the release of Nintendo’s™ newest hardware platform, the GBA SP.  

“We’re looking very forward to Nintendo’s new hardware platform as it opens up a whole new category for innovative accessories to enter the current GBA accessories market,” said John Goodale, SVP, Sales/Marketing/Product Development, Naki.  “We’re keen on Nintendo’s new strategic positioning for the new GBA SP, which has a mature appeal, and have produced accessories that address and meet the lifestyle needs of these target markets. Furthermore, we will continue to develop genre-busting accessories for this exciting new market.”  

Naki’s GBA SP line up includes innovative and useful accessories at extremely pocket friendly prices that provide an enhanced gaming experience on the GBA SP:

-Car Charge Adaptor SP, MSRP $9.99

-Headphone Adaptor SP, MSRP $6.99

-GBA Link Cable SP, MSRP $4.99

-GBA Magnifier SP, MSRP $9.99

-GBA Stereo Speakers SP, MSRP $12.99

-Protective Glove and Straps, MSRP $4.99

-Game Grip SP, MSRP $5.99

-GBA SP Travel Bag, MSRP $6.99

-8-in-1 Starter Kit for GBA SP, MSRP $19.99, which includes:            
-Headphone Adapter SP
-Car Adaptor
-Travel Bag
-Link Cable SP
-Neck and wrist straps
-Earphones SP
-Protective Glove
-2 Cartridge cases

-10-in-1 Enhancement Kit for GBA SP, MSRP $24.99, which includes:            
-Stereo Speaker SP
-Magnifier SP
-Headphone Adapter SP
-Car Adaptor
-Travel Bag
-Link Cable SP
-Neck and wrist straps
-Earphones SP
-Protective Glove
-2 Cartridge cases

For details about Naki’s GBA SP line, please visit www.nakiusa.com.

[Even more GBA SP accessories for those who need more battery life, better sound, a better grip, etc.]

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TalkBack / Intec Launches GBA SP Accessories

« on: March 25, 2003, 07:47:32 AM »

Even more GBA SP accessories for those who need more battery life, better sound, a better grip, etc.

Successful Launch of Intec’s GameBoy® Advance SP Accessories

Miami, Florida, March 25th, 2003 – Intec, Inc., a leading manufacturer of cross-platform video game accessories, announced today the successful launch of its full line of innovative accessories for Nintendo’s new GameBoy® Advance SP.

Intec’s full line of GameBoy® Advance SP accessories arrived in retail stores last week, allowing retailers the ability to capitalize on this past weekend’s nationwide launch of the new hardware.

“Our engineering and design teams developed some of the most unique and distinctive accessories in the market,” said Kevin Resnick, Intec’s Sr. Vice President of Sales. “Our innovative designs have generated a huge following among GBA gamers, and we are excited that we have once again delivered the best quality and functionality in the market.”

Intec’s unique designs allow gamers the opportunity to customize their GameBoy® Advance SP to fit their own gaming style. The new line of accessories includes Gamer’s cases, Clip-On Game Holders, amazing transformer-like Stereo Speakers, ultra-comfortable Wing Grips, Game Earphones with unique SP adaptor, protective Aluminum Cases, Car Adaptors, Magnifiers, multi-player Link Cables and more. Intec’s full line of accessories is available now in retail stores across the country, along with the new GameBoy® Advance SP.

[The next Star Wars game from Factor 5 will be unveiled in next month's issue of EGM.]

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TalkBack / Rogue Squadron III Confirmed

« on: March 23, 2003, 11:05:41 AM »

The next Star Wars game from Factor 5 will be unveiled in next month's issue of EGM.

According to Gamers.com, the online extension of Electronic Gaming Monthly, the next issue of EGM will feature the first-ever information on Star Wars: Rogue Squadron III, Factor 5's newest game.  LucasArts will be the publisher, of course.  The website offers no further information except that the game will debut at E3 in May.

We'll know more when the new issue of EGM arrives...

[The second GBA title in the King of Fighters series will be released in North America by Acclaim.]

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TalkBack / Acclaim to Publish King of Fighters EX2

« on: March 22, 2003, 04:42:34 PM »

The second GBA title in the King of Fighters series will be released in North America by Acclaim.

Acclaim has announced that it will publish King of Fighters EX2: Howling Blood for Game Boy Advance.  The game will be released in North America sometime in April.  Like its handheld predecessor, EX2 was developed by Marvelous Entertainment.  The game will include these features:

· Gain experience with each new match - refine your skills, unlock secrets and master powerful new moves;

· 21 deadly characters across 7 tough-as-nails teams, including 3 dynamic exclusive characters;

· Challenging VS mode (single or team) using Link Cable;

· 6 modes of explosive play - Classic 3v3 Battle mode, 2-player VS mode, and an all-new Story mode;

· Revised and enhanced 'Striker' fighting system brings in outside help for maximum damage!

We'll have more information of King of Fighters EX2: Howling Blood soon.

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TalkBack / Industry Giants Behind UGE 2003

« on: March 20, 2003, 10:00:31 AM »

You're assuming that these companies are driven by personality.  While that may be a small part of it, most corporate decisions are made on the basis of money.  Working Designs may be a small company, but I'm sure most of this drama you describe was motivated by the bottom line.

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TalkBack / NEC Delays Tube Slider for GameCube

« on: March 19, 2003, 10:54:51 AM »

This press release is basically just giving the game's new release date, April.  It was originally going be be released in February, then March, and now it has been delayed again.  I changed the headline and abstract to explain a bit better.

[Plus, release dates for Mario Golf (GameCube) and Advance Wars 2 (GBA).]

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TalkBack / GameCube Sales Double in February

« on: March 19, 2003, 08:01:06 AM »

Plus, release dates for Mario Golf (GameCube) and Advance Wars 2 (GBA).

Nintendo of America has announced that GameCube sales in February increased 110% over January sales.  The GameCube software tie-ratio now stands at 8.4 games for every system on a year-to-date basis.  The sales boost is attributed to Nintendo's bundle offer, which gives new GameCube owners a free game with the system.

Game Boy Advance sold more than 250,000 units in February, representing more than 25% of all game hardware sales, despite the fact that an improved version launches later this month.  GameCube and GBA combined to make up 37% of all game hardware sales and more than a quarter of all game sales in February, though Nintendo didn't release a first-party title for either system until mid-March.

In other news, Pokemon Ruby & Sapphire have sold over 4 million copies in Japan so far, while preorders for The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker have reached 600,000 units in North America.

Nintendo has also provided updated release dates for its first-party games through the summer:

GameCube

The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker - March 24
Wario World - June 23
Mario Golf - July 28
F-Zero - August 25

GBA

Game Boy Advance SP - March 23
Hamtaro: Ham-Ham Heartbreak - April 7
Golden Sun: The Lost Age - April 14
Wario Ware, Inc.: Mega Microgame$ - May 26
Donkey Kong Country - June 9
Advance Wars 2: Black Hole Rising - June 23

e-Reader

Donkey Kong 3-e - April 21
Golf-e - April 21
Clu Clu Land-e - April 21
Animal Crossing-e Series 4 - May 12

5321

Podcast Discussion / Radio Trivia Results for 3/14/2003

« on: March 15, 2003, 08:39:49 AM »

I can't believe no one got World Heroes.  You people should be ashamed of yourselves.

[The classic karate game is now portable and in stores.]

5322

TalkBack / IK+ Returns on GBA

« on: March 14, 2003, 03:27:18 AM »

The classic karate game is now portable and in stores.

IK+ Still Packing A Punch The Second Time Around!

WALTHAM ABBEY - 12th March 2003 Ignition Entertainment, a worldwide publisher, developer and distributor of entertainment software has launched a range of games for the Game Boy® Advance. A total of nine games have been released all with a very aggressive retail price point of £14.99 inc. VAT.

IK+  is one of the best known classic Karate games of all time, from the multi-award winning author Archer MacLean, and selling well over 1 million units in the past 15 years. It was the game that spawned a dozen others and was even quoted as being the inspiration for the Street Fighter series.  It was originally launched on 8 and 16-bit platforms and due to huge popular demand is now available on the Game Boy® Advance platform in all its original glory - but with some additional features!

IK+ features one or two players in a frantic 3 player all-action karate game where taking a rest is not an option.  Two players can play on two Game Boy Advances using the available link-cable.  The game features detailed highly animated graphics, from head butts to double face kicks, along with loud spectacular bone-crunching sound effects that any karate fan will enjoy, as well as host of amusing background animations and ambient effects.

The mission is simple - Survive! You fight TWO other players simultaneously in bouts of 3 way fighting, with the least successful player being knocked out at the end of each round. But watch out, the longer you survive the tougher it gets! Every third round sees you fighting on through bonus sub-games featuring the famous bouncing balls level, or with exploding time bombs appearing all around you.  

Your belt colour changes as you progress higher up the levels, leading ultimately to Black Belt. But the computer fighters get more cunning, attacking your weak spots with greater speed.  Get knocked down and you must endure a time consuming spell on the ground before being able to get up again.

Throughout all this mayhem, there is humour too!  Leave your player idle long enough and his trousers might fall down round his ankles, or numerous background animations trigger off.

IK+ is now available in leading retail outlets and on line stockists.

[The GBA sequel is now available in North America.]

5323

TalkBack / Sonic Advance 2 Ships

« on: March 13, 2003, 03:29:51 PM »

The GBA sequel is now available in North America.

SONIC ADVANCEä 2 SHIPS FOR GAME BOY® ADVANCE  

Sequel to Best-Selling Handheld Title Races to Store Shelves

CALABASAS HILLS, Calif. – March. 10, 2003 – THQâ Inc. (NASDAQ: THQI) and SEGA® Corporation today announced that SONIC ADVANCEä 2 has shipped and is available at retail outlets nationwide.

“We are delighted to publish this sequel to the 2002 smash hit, Sonic Advance,” said Alison Locke, executive vice president, North American Publishing, THQ.  “Sonic Advance 2 exemplifies SEGA’s talent and devotion to the Sonic brand and THQ is thrilled to be bringing this triple-A Game Boy Advance title to North America. ”

“The ‘Sonic The Hedgehog®’ franchise continues to build in its popularity with every game release,” said Shinobu Toyoda, executive vice president of content strategy and business development, SEGA of America, Inc. “Working together with THQ, and building off the success of the original Sonic Advance, Sonic Advance 2 is sure to be another hit on the Game Boy Advance platform.”

[Developed by Vicarious Visions, this GBA title contains eight mini-games based on the classic TV show.]

5324

TalkBack / TDK Ships The Muppet Show

« on: March 13, 2003, 06:32:56 AM »

Developed by Vicarious Visions, this GBA title contains eight mini-games based on the classic TV show.

TDK Mediactive Lifts the Red Velvet Curtain for ``The Muppets:       On With The Show''

New Game Boy Advance Title Ships         Just Prior to Release of Game Boy Advance SP

WESTLAKE VILLAGE, Calif.--March 13, 2003--Stagehands, theatre-goers, and patrons of the arts unite, as TDK Mediactive, Inc. (OTCBB:TDKM) announces the Game Boy(R) Advance handheld system debut of the Muppets(TM) and their zany escapades in "The Muppets: On With The Show(TM)."

"We're very happy to deliver the Muppets, one of the all-time great family treasures, to the audiences of the Game Boy Advance and much anticipated Game Boy Advance SP," stated Michael Devine, TDK Mediactive executive vice president, sales and marketing. "Not only is `The Muppets: On With The Show' one of the most hilarious and refreshing games that we've ever published, but it's been placed at the family-friendly price of $19.99 MSRP, making it a perfect gift for any occasion."

"Muppet fans are sure to delight in the Muppetational backstage mayhem featured on TDK Mediactive's `The Muppets: On With The Show,'" said Michael R. Polis, senior vice president of marketing, The Jim Henson Company. "We are excited to bring Muppet titles to the Game Boy Advance and Game Boy Advance SP formats, expanding the opportunities for Muppet game-play."

About "The Muppets: On With The Show"

Developed by Vicarious Visions, this laugh-out-loud, handheld title features eight mini-games, two of which are unlockable, and is sure to entertain kids of all ages:

    --  Kermit the Frog(TM) tries to entertain with his banjo from a         boat, while simultaneously avoiding Muppets swimming through         the (cardboard) waves. Miss Piggy(TM) keeps horning in on the         act.

    --  The Swedish Chef's(TM) cooking show turns into a pitched         battle with the rats who keep stealing his weird food items.

    --  Dr. Bunsen Honeydew(TM) and Beaker(TM) frantically work to         avoid the typical disaster involving strange equipment and         bizarre ingredients.

    --  The Great Gonzo(TM) wows the audience with his daredevil         motorcycle act. He drives through the obstacles. Ouch!

    --  Miss Piggy rescues Kermit the Frog from the giant Jurassic         Pork that emerges from Bunsen and Beaker's new time machine.

    --  Animal's(TM) musician friends, the Electric Mayhem Band(TM),         all want to get in on his act and jam together -- with mixed         results!

[An Australian company releases comprehensive development tools for Game Boy Advance.]

5325

TalkBack / Nocturnal Releases GBA Middleware

« on: March 11, 2003, 11:35:05 AM »

An Australian company releases comprehensive development tools for Game Boy Advance.

Australian developer Nocturnal Entertainment has released its GBA development middleware, Catapult v1.20b, which includes an editor, debugger, visual toolset, and custom language.

Catapult now features:
- Music support (Nmod!)
- Brand new editor, including :
- command completion
- fully coloured language (customizable)
- right-click context windows
- runtime information/help bar
- unlimited undo/redo commands
- Sprite rotation support
- Enhanced tile editing
- Rotation bank dialog
- Array view dialog
- New table (constant data) system
- Image processor improvements
- generate TileMaps from images
- various tile 'reduction' options
- extensive new user guide
- significant speed improvements

Catapult may be downloaded from Nocturnal's website at the link above.