Messages

[While not quite like Enter the Matrix, this game promises to follow the script of the T3 movie, Arnold and all.]

1576

TalkBack / Schwarzenegger to Appear in New T3 Game

« on: April 24, 2003, 09:44:30 AM »

While not quite like Enter the Matrix, this game promises to follow the script of the T3 movie, Arnold and all.

ATARI'S TERMINATOR 3: RISE OF THE MACHINES VIDEOGAME TO PARALLEL BLOCKBUSTER SUMMER FILM

Arnold Schwarzenegger Likeness and Voice Make First Ever Videogame Appearance on All Major Console Systems

LONDON- April 24, 2003 - Atari announced today the development of a videogame based on Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines, the upcoming summer blockbuster motion picture from Intermedia, IMF and C2 Pictures, scheduled for nationwide release by Warner Bros. Pictures on July 2. The film will also be released overseas through Columbia TriStar Film Distributors International and in Japan by Toho Towa. A first-person action game currently in development for all major console gaming platforms, Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines will - for the first time on next-generation console systems - allow players to become the Terminator Series signature icon, Arnold Schwarzenegger as the original Terminator. This marks the first time Arnold Schwarzenegger's voice and likeness has ever appeared in a home videogame.

"The Terminator series is one of the most popular movie franchises in existence today and its latest incarnation, Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines, is one of the most highly anticipated movie releases of 2003," said Matt Broughton, International Communications Director, Infogrames Europe. "Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines, the videogame, will capitalize on every aspect of the feature film's popularity, from a mind-bending plot that closely follows the movie's script to the first ever appearance of Arnold Schwarzenegger's likeness and voice in a videogame. Gamers and Terminator fans alike are going to be blown away when we give them an opportunity to become one of the most advanced fighting machines ever created."

Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines will feature exclusive film footage created specifically for the release of the videogame and not available in the motion picture. Filmed by director Jonathan Mostow, this 5-minute segment features Arnold Schwarzenegger and sheds new light on the mythology behind the origins of the Terminator. In addition, footage from the feature film is also used liberally throughout the game to set up key situations and story-related game elements.

"Videogames have become an entertainment medium as big as the movies they are based on," said C-2 producers Andy Vajna and Mario Kassar. "Now the Terminator has found the most exciting and authentic expression as a videogame of what made these movies a hit in theaters around the world and we are proud to be partnered with Atari in bringing Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines into homes everywhere."

The Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines videogame storyline will weave in and out of the movie script as players face enemies from the present in which the War of the Machines looms on the horizon, to the apocalyptic future where the War itself is waged on all fronts. While following the feature film's plot closely, Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines will go one step further by providing fans of the Terminator series with a deeper look into the movie's universe and the role of the Terminator, a futuristic fighting machine reprogrammed to save humanity from the SkyNet holocaust.

As the Terminator, players will face all comers in first-person action from the wastelands of the future to present-day Los Angeles. Military bases, laboratories and downtown Los Angeles are just a few of the more than 20 unique locations found in the game, which have been taken straight from the current Terminator timeline of events. In addition, more than 20 futuristic and modern-day weapons will be at the player's disposal for use in terminating any enemy in the most efficient manner possible, including the SkyNet Arc-Laser, Tech-Com Micro Rocket Launcher and the AR-15 Assault Rifle with M202 Grenade Launcher.

Much like the feature film, when Terminators clash in Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines all hell is sure to break loose. Terminators are designed to utilize the most readily and efficient means available to eliminate any particular foe - when that enemy is a Terminator this leads to absolutely brutal hand-to-hand combat. Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines will allow player's to engage in true movie-like Terminator combat as they repeatedly face the ultimate killing machine, the T-X, throughout the single-player game. Smashing opponents into walls, massive two-handed chops and crushing kicks are just a few of the dozens of moves in the Terminator's arsenal.

A unique twist in the Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines story will also allow players to operate the Terminator before it was reprogrammed in the future to save John Connor. As a result, players will be able to test their terminating skills against battle-hardened Tech Com special forces from the future as they fight alongside and utilize SkyNet's advanced weaponry, including Future Killer tanks and flyers, fixed gun emplacements as well as other Terminators in an effort to crush the last remnants of mankind.

Developed by Black Ops Entertainment, Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines will make its debut on all major console gaming systems in Fall 2003.

[So you wanna be a bawler? If you pick up EA's new game, you can be.]

1577

TalkBack / NBA Street Vol. 2 Ships

« on: April 24, 2003, 09:37:27 AM »

So you wanna be a bawler?  If you pick up EA's new game, you can be.

EA Ships NBA STREET Vol. 2 for the PlayStation 2, Xbox and Nintendo GameCube Thursday April 24, 9:08 am ET EA Ships NBA STREET Vol. 2 for the PlayStation 2, Xbox and Nintendo GameCube

REDWOOD CITY, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 24, 2003--Electronic Arts announced today that NBA STREET Vol. 2 will be available Tuesday, April 29th under the EA SPORTS BIG(TM) brand for the PlayStation® 2 computer entertainment system, the Nintendo GameCube(TM) and the Xbox(TM) video game system from Microsoft.

NBA STREET Vol. 2 lets players bring their act to the street and face off against the greatest basketball players of all-time on blacktop courts throughout North America. Players can choose from a roster of over 150 NBA stars past and present complete with their signature moves, in their quest for street ball dominance...alone, with a friend or in the new four-person multi-player mode.  

NBA STREET Vol. 2 carries an "E" (Everyone) rating from the ESRB and will be priced at US MSRP $49.99. NBA STREET Vol. 2 was developed by NuFX Inc. and EA Canada.

[He'll be in the NFL this year, but you can see the Heisman Trophy winner's mug on the cover of this college game.]

1578

TalkBack / Carson Palmer on NCAA Football 2004 Cover

« on: April 23, 2003, 02:43:37 PM »

He'll be in the NFL this year, but you can see the Heisman Trophy winner's mug on the cover of this college game.

Heisman Trophy Winner Carson Palmer Joins EA SPORTS Lineup on Cover of NCAA Football 2004

REDWOOD CITY, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 23, 2003--Electronic Arts Inc. announced today that former All-American USC quarterback and 2002 Heisman Trophy winner Carson Palmer is the spokesman for the EA SPORTS(TM) brand NCAA® Football 2004. Palmer, who is expected to be a first round pick in the NFL Draft this weekend, will appear on the cover of the newest iteration of the best-selling and most popular college football videogame, NCAA Football 2004. His image will appear on all of the game's packaging and merchandising.

"Being on the cover of NCAA Football 2004 is a wonderful way to honor your college career," said Palmer. "I have been playing this videogame since I was a kid but never thought I would end up on the cover. EA is the clear industry leader so it is a privilege to be on the cover of the game in my school colors."  

Palmer also won the 2002 Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award as the nation's top senior quarterback, the Pop Warner Award as the top senior on the West Coast and The National Quarterback Club's National College Quarterback of the Year Award. He was named the National Player of the Year by The Sporting News and CNNSI.com and to the 2002 AP, Football Writers, The Sporting News, ESPN.com, CBS.Sportsline.com, CNNSI.com and All-American Football Foundation All-American first teams. He started all four years and owns eight Pac-10 career records including total offense (11,621), plays (1,824), passing yardage (11,818), completions (927) and attempts (1,569).  

NCAA Football 2004 relives the intensity, pageantry and spirit of college football and celebrates the loyalty and tradition of college football's storied rivalries. NCAA Football 2004 will be available in July on the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, the Xbox (TM) video game system from Microsoft and the Nintendo GameCube(TM).

[18 games across various systems are no longer, as a result of lower-than-expected sales.]

1579

TalkBack / Capcom Declares Losses, Cans Games

« on: April 22, 2003, 09:07:23 PM »

18 games across various systems are no longer, as a result of lower-than-expected sales.

Bloomberg's Japanese site recently revealed that Capcom has been taking a financial hit as of late, and as a result the company has cancelled 18 of the approximately 100 titles it has been working on at the time.  While the specfic titles cancelled weren't revealed, it is known that the five Production Studio 4 games that Capcom had announced for the GameCube (including Resident Evil 4) are still in the works.

Capcom was expecting to lose around $106 million (¥12.7 billion) for its 2002 fiscal year, but wound up taking a loss of around $60 million more, or $163 million.  Titles that Capcom expected to sell well, including Biohazard 0 for GameCube, and the PS2's Run Like Hell 2 and Clock Tower 3, wound up selling below expectations.  Not surprisingly, Capcom stocks were down 15% soon after the announcement.

Capcom has still not announced its lineup for E3.  However, once the word gets out about what they've got planned for the big show, we'll be the first to tell you.

[Europe pulls an ESRB and will start rating all its videogame titles by age and content.]

1580

TalkBack / Europe Adopts Universal Game Rating System

« on: April 22, 2003, 08:50:53 PM »

Europe pulls an ESRB and will start rating all its videogame titles by age and content.

ELSPA ADOPTS NEW PAN-EUROPEAN VIDEOGAME AGE RATING SYSTEM

24th April introduction for universal games classification

Wednesday 23rd April 2003/... ELSPA, the Entertainment and Leisure Software Publishers Association, today announced its wholesale endorsement of the new Pan European Game Information system ('PEGI') for new interactive entertainment titles released from April 2003.  

The system, which recognises the need for a uniformed age ratings across Europe, has been designed to rate the age suitability and content of computer and video games so that consumers - particularly parents - can make informed buying decisions at point of purchase.  

The PEGI system supersedes ELSPA's own voluntary age ratings system - which has been running successfully in the UK since 1994 - and will harmonise packaging throughout Europe. The PEGI system is being introduced simultaneously throughout 16 European countries.  

"ELSPA identified the need for a clear ratings system for the UK nine years ago and it's great now to see a consistent system for the whole of Europe," said Roger Bennett, director general, ELSPA. "We are delighted to support the PEGI Initiative and look forward to enforcing it as rigorously as we have done our own ratings system."

The PEGI system is being introduced on 24th April by the Interactive Software Federation of Europe (ISFE), a body to which all major format holders, publishers and developers belong. The system has two parts; an age rating and an indication of game content. The system reflects the industry's concern to provide simple and clear guidance to adult purchasers of games.  

The system remains voluntary and will run in tandem with the UK's existing BBFC-rating, which legally prohibits retailers from selling 18- or 15-rated titles to minors. Video games featuring mature content in graphic form must be submitted to the BBFC prior to release.

[Okay, a mutant RPG? Well, at least it has four-player co-op.]

1581

TalkBack / Activision Reveals X-Men Legends

« on: April 21, 2003, 09:56:48 AM »

Okay, a mutant RPG?  Well, at least it has four-player co-op.

Activision(R) Announces the Ultimate Mutant Marvel Team-Up With X-Men(TM): Legends

SANTA MONICA, Calif., April 21 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Activision, Inc. and Raven Software are giving gamers and Marvel fans the world over the chance to build their X-Men(TM) dream team with the announcement of X-Men(TM): Legends for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, Xbox(TM) video game system from Microsoft and Nintendo GameCube(TM). In this real-time RPG, players get the chance to assemble, train and lead their own X-Men fighting force in a battle against some of the deadliest foes in the Marvel Universe including the Morlocks(TM), the Brotherhood of Mutants(TM) and robotic Sentinels(TM). To be successful, players will have to draw on the powers of a diverse pool of X-Men and use teamwork to unleash the full power of their squad. X-Men: Legends is expected to ship in 2004 and has not yet been rated by the ESRB.

"X-Men: Legends is the first game to capture the complete essence of the X-Men by allowing players to control multiple characters that fight together as a team," states Larry Goldberg, executive vice president, Activision Worldwide Studios. "The game will blend the best parts of the movies, comic books in a fantastic new adventure that allows the you to develop your specialized powers as you succeed through your missions."

Penned by Man of Action, a studio of comic industry veterans, X-Men: Legends begins with the rescue of a young mutant and takes players through an engrossing plot that could unite mutant-kind, yet destroy the human race in the process. Along the way, players will be able to assemble their ideal X-Men crew from over 15 of the most popular characters from the last 40 years, including Wolverine(TM), Cyclops(TM), Storm(TM), Nightcrawler(TM), Colossus(TM), Gambit(TM) and Beast(TM), to name a few. However, before players load-up their squad with heavy hitters, they will have to take their foes' abilities into consideration as certain situations may benefit from the abilities of specific X-Men. While Cyclops' optic blasts and Colossus' immense strength are great for clearing a path through hordes of enemies, players can opt to bring Wolverine and Nightcrawler along on a stealth intensive mission to help circumvent detection devices. Once the action begins, players can take control of any member of their squad and even execute multi-character combinations such as the famous Wolverine/Colossus Fastball Special. As they progress through the game, characters will gain experience points that players can use to upgrade the X-Men's abilities and even learn new fighting styles.

Four-player co-operative mode is also planned, allowing multiple players to partner-up in X-Men: Legends. With dynamic joining, new players can join the adventure at any time, or gamers can take a break and pit their heroes against each other in the X-Men's famed Danger Room.

[Come this May, you'll be finding more than Nemo in your videogame.]

1582

TalkBack / Finding Nemo Free Movie Ticket Promo

« on: April 21, 2003, 09:16:34 AM »

Come this May, you'll be finding more than Nemo in your videogame.

Free Movie Ticket for "Finding Nemo," the Upcoming Walt Disney Pictures Presentation of a Pixar Animation Studios Film in Every Finding Nemo Videogame    Extensive Marketing Campaign Includes PlayStation(R)2, Xbox(R), GameCube(TM), Game Boy(R) Advance and PC Games, All Scheduled to Ship Early May

CALABASAS HILLS, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 21, 2003-- THQ® Inc. today announced details of an extensive marketing campaign supporting the upcoming Walt Disney Pictures Presentation of Pixar Animation Studios' Finding Nemo videogame for PlayStation®2, Xbox®, GameCube(TM), Game Boy® Advance and PC/MAC.

Highlights include a multimillion-dollar national television, print, radio and online campaign, in-theater marketing, numerous cross-promotions, and a free "Finding Nemo" movie ticket in all videogame units shipped with the initial launch, while supplies last. The game is scheduled for release in early May and the movie will hit screens May 30.  

"THQ is thrilled to support the launch of the 'Finding Nemo' videogame with a unique marketing program, the focal point of which is a free movie ticket offer," said Peter Dille, senior vice president, worldwide marketing, THQ. "We look forward to the success of the movie given its mass market appeal and wide ranging comedy."  

"'Finding Nemo' the videogame is a wonderful undersea adventure inspired by the beauty and magic of the film," said Sanjeev Lamba, vice president of marketing and international, Disney Interactive. "We look forward to bringing the 'Finding Nemo' experience to videogame fans everywhere through our relationship with THQ."  

Marketing Highlights for Walt Disney Pictures Presentation of Pixar Animation Studios' Finding Nemo Videogame Include:  

• Free movie ticket packaged inside every videogame at launch
• National television campaign on ABC, NBC, FOX, CBS, WB, UPN, Cartoon Network, Nickelodeon, ABC Family and other major networks supporting the game
• Print campaign for the game across major family, kids and mainstream publications, running from April through July
• National promotion featuring videogame on millions of packages of Orville Redenbacher microwave popcorn and in a Free
• Standing Insert reaching 45 million households
• National promotion with Frito Lay featuring videogame on more than 50 million packaged snacks
• National in-theater promotion featuring videogame on millions of popcorn tubs
• Cross-promotion of the game in "Finding Nemo" books, soundtrack and DVD read-along

[Official Results:]

1583

Podcast Discussion / Planet Trivia: 18 April 2003

« on: April 19, 2003, 04:50:31 PM »

Official Results:
3 - NikJam
2 - Kentop :: noj3 :: Sharparoni :: SS4Gogita :: TKnHappyNess
1 - [MJ] :: ExtremeGamer311 :: fudge :: Gabriel_Celeste :: GorillazFan87 :: Mikemn :: Mumbo :: oxpants
1 - PowderedToastMan :: rptr519 :: Sir_Pinch-a-Loaf :: thegamecubist :: tman :: tomspug :: ulanshad



Official SuperStats:
Questions Answered: 28/30
Players Scoring: 21
Time of Trivia: 1h 7m 38s
Rulesbreakers Banned: 6
Max Channel Load: 68
The Prize: http://www.planetgamecube.com/news.cfm?action=item&id=4260


Question Writers:
19 - WindyMan :: (12-30)
7 - StrikerObi :: (05-11)
4 - AussieBen :: (01-04)



Questions:
p)Before PlanetGameCube.com, it was...
01) What did the code on the "Big Fat Liar" DVD for Spyro 2: Season of Flame (GBA) actually do?
02) What is the only way you could get the "Cool Porygon" Pokémon Trading Card?
03) Playing each game twenty times in Sonic Mega Collection earns you what obscure game?
04) What were the five things that came in the original Game Boy box?
05) What are the four different creeds in Hunter: The Reckoning? (GC)
06) What common game found in pizza places around the country is the first boss in Goof Troop (SNES) similar to?
07) What are all the different shapes of the holes in Mario Party 4's Booksquirm mini game?
08) According to the game, what are the 5 base weather conditions in Wave Race: Blue Storm?
09) Which court in Beach Spikers is in a night environment?
10) What opens purple doors in Metroid Prime?
11) What's Alex's pet's name in Lunar Legend?
12) Who distributed the NES Power Glove in Japan?
13) What was the physical difference between licensed and unlicensed Tengen NES games? (be specific)
14) What's the URL to Nintendo of Sweden's website? (make it clickable)
15) What was the name of the sequel of Jaleco's Goal! for the NES? (spelling)
- - - - -
16) What are the six teams in Sega Soccer Slam?
17) Of the 20 obstacles that the Paperboy needs to avoid (according to the instruction book), what are any 8 of them? (GB version)
18) What were the three Fisher Price games for the NES called?
19) What does the only bonafide button code for Goldeneye for the N64 do? (be specific)
20) In Golden Sun, where does Tret live?
21) In Super Smash Bros. Melee, how do you earn the Switzerland award?
22) In Mortal Kombat Deadly Alliance, what item is contained in Krypt Koffin NN?
23) What GB game is featured on the box art for the Super Game Boy? (full title)
24) What were the two new music choices added alongside the classic Fever in Chill in Dr. Mario 64?
25) What are the names of the three "medal" unicycles in the SNES game, Uniracers?
26) In Kirby Super Star, what item does Chef Kawasaki nail you with if you're too slow in Samurai Kirby?
27) What are the three game types in the Zapper game, Hogan's Alley for the NES? (describe them)
28) What was the only GBC game in history that was planned to (but never did) have GBC-PS2 link capability?
29) Other than Fred Savage, who else starred in the cult movie hit, The Wizard? (any major character will do)
30) Of the five GameCube colors original shown at Space World 2000, which two have not been (and probably will not be) released yet?



Answers:
p]<NikJam> PlanetN2000.com
01] <PowderedToastMan> turn spyro blue
02] <TKnHappyNess> Buy the N64 Pokemon Stadium bundle
03] <NikJam> Ristar
04] <Gabriel_Celeste> Game Boy, Tetris, Batteries, Link Cables, Manuals, Headphones
05] <Kentop> avenger, defender martyr judge
06] <ulanshad> Whack-a-mole
07] <ExtremeGamer311> star, circle, crescent
08] <rptr519> clear cloudy light showers rainy stormy
09] The Coca-Cola stage
10] <NikJam> Wave beam
11] <fudge> nall
12] <oxpants> pax
13] <Sir_Pinch-a-Loaf> licensed were gray, unlicensed were black
14] <SS4Gogita> www.nintendo-se.com/
15] <Kentop> Goal! Two
- - - - -
16] <NikJam> El Fuego, Subzero, Spirit, Volta, Tsunami, Toxic
17] <tomspug> skateboard fiends, breakdancers, workmen, the grim reaper, tornados, cars, motorcycles, ogs
18] <SS4Gogita> fire house rescure, i can remember, perfect fit
19] <TKnHappyNess> Unlock 64 characters in multiplayer
20] <Mikemn> in koliima forest
21] <Mumbo> by not hitting anything or taking damage
22] <[MJ]> Blaze Sketches
23] <Sharparoni> metroid II return of samus
24] <noj3> Cube and Que Que
25] Bronson, Sylvia, Goldwyn
26] <Sharparoni> pan
27] <noj3> First, practice making split second identification of the gangsters in a line-up. Next, move into the streets where enemy targets can pop up from anywhere, then show 'em your stuff in the Trick Shoot, a rapid fire round for only the toughest G-men.
28] <tman> metal gear solid integral
29] <GorillazFan87> beau bridges
30] <thegamecubist> gold and pinlk  

[The game is done, we just need to wait a month for it and the movie.]

1584

TalkBack / Enter the Matrix Complete

« on: April 18, 2003, 08:09:55 AM »

The game is done, we just need to wait a month for it and the movie.

"Enter the Matrix" Goes Gold

Groundbreaking Crossover Between Hollywood and Video Games Is Complete  Available Worldwide On May 15

LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 18, 2003--Atari and Shiny Entertainment are pleased to announce that development is complete on "Enter The Matrix" for the PlayStation® 2 computer entertainment system, the Xbox(TM) video game system from Microsoft, the Nintendo GameCube(TM) and the personal computer. The worldwide launch of the game to retail outlets will occur on schedule on May 15, 2003, day and date with the theatrical release of the highly anticipated Warner Brothers action movie "The Matrix Reloaded."

"Over two years ago, Joel Silver, the producer of `The Matrix' trilogy, and the Wachowski brothers, the writers and directors, envisioned a new way that Hollywood and the video-game industry could work together. Their concept required Shiny to build a video game containing every single element of the Matrix experience, and it was essential that this groundbreaking game be delivered on time with their movie, so Matrix fans could experience it all at once," said David Perry, President of Shiny Entertainment, the game's developer. "Today, those objectives have been met, and soon gamers around the world will enjoy the results of this unprecedented collaboration, gaining a unique insight into the Matrix universe."  

"Enter The Matrix" is a revolution in interactive entertainment -- a third-person action game that effectively blurs the line between Hollywood blockbuster films and next-generation video games. The game is directed and features a script written by the Wachowski brothers, writers/directors of "The Matrix" film trilogy, creating the most intensive collaboration between a video-game publisher and a movie studio to date. More information about "Enter the Matrix" is available at www.enterthematrixgame.com; in addition, to learn more about "The Matrix Reloaded" visit www.thematrix.com.

[Let's throw Billy a going away party! You Ikaruga fans might be interested in tonight's prize... and so will everyone over the age of 21. See it inside!]

1585

TalkBack / Planet Prize Trivia Tonight at 9p CT!

« on: April 18, 2003, 07:49:47 AM »

Let's throw Billy a going away party!  You Ikaruga fans might be interested in tonight's prize... and so will everyone over the age of 21.  See it inside!

Ikaruga and sake - a winning combination?

Holy cow!  We're giving away a very special prize tonight!  It's the Ikaruga oversized box (no game included), and something else that's special.  As you can see, it comes with a little something extra: A sake bottle.  (If you're under 21, you can use it as a nice pot for a plant.)  This is what tonight's lucky winner is going to get, so come to the chatroom tonight and try and claim it!

Most of you know the story by now.  Read the rules, join us in our chatroom, they try and get the most points out of 30 questions to win the day.  It's that simple!

We'll see you tonight in the chatroom at 9pm Central Time, and good luck!

[The first US concert to feature videogame music has been pushed back a year to make it bigger and better.]

1586

TalkBack / E3 Videogame Music Concert Canned

« on: April 17, 2003, 10:14:12 AM »

The first US concert to feature videogame music has been pushed back a year to make it bigger and better.

Last August we reported that as part of the E3 festivities, a music concert featuring videogame tunes was announced.  As giddy as everyone around the gaming community was to hear about this, it turns out that the concert has been pushed back into 2004.

Here's a small clip from the article at Music4Games.net:

Event Producer Jack Wall recently informed [Music4Games], "The response to the concert was so overwhelmingly positive, we decided to plan a bigger show for next year rather than the one we were originally planning for this year. Several corporate sponsors also have expressed serious interest in 2004 rather than 2003 and that will go a long way to making our larger plan a reality."

Seems like a good reason.  For the rest of the explanation as to why the concert was pushed into 2004, read the full article over at Music4Games.

[Microsoft and Nintendo are bound to eat into Sony's userbase, and the next generation of consoles are expected to be the fastest-selling ever.]

1587

TalkBack / Videogame Industry Growing Quickly

« on: April 17, 2003, 09:56:33 AM »

Microsoft and Nintendo are bound to eat into Sony's userbase, and the next generation of consoles are expected to be the fastest-selling ever.

DFC Intelligence Forecasts Strong Growth For Video Game Industry

SAN DIEGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 17, 2003--A new report from research firm DFC Intelligence forecasts that the worldwide market for video games, computer games and interactive entertainment hardware and software should grow from $20.7 billion in 2002 to as much as $30 billion by 2007.  Furthermore, the report states that by 2007 consumers will by and large be playing on a new breed of game systems that have yet to be released.  

"We think that the successors to the Sony PlayStation 2, the Microsoft Xbox and the Nintendo GameCube are likely to be the fastest selling video game systems ever," said David Cole, president of DFC Intelligence.  

Leading the market is Sony and its PlayStation brand. According to Cole, "the PlayStation 2 could eventually have sales of over 100 million hardware units, thus the PlayStation 3 has to be a favorite to continue Sony's market leadership position."  

However, the report claims that it is inevitable that Microsoft and Nintendo will take market share away from Sony. "The PlayStation 2 has been completely dominant, but we expect as much as 50% of PlayStation 2 owners to eventually buy an Xbox or GameCube," said Cole.  

The report contains three separate scenarios for future growth. Under all scenarios, the PlayStation 2 and PlayStation 3 are the market share leaders, however Microsoft and Nintendo are significantly more competitive then they are in today's marketplace. "Nintendo is being very aggressive with hardware pricing, software bundling and is doing a better job with third-party relationships. This should really benefit them in the long-term," said Cole.  

Meanwhile, Microsoft is expected to be extremely competitive on all fronts and has now become a battle-tested veteran. Cole noted that the Xbox was the first system from Microsoft, and it got off to a late start, nevertheless, the Xbox still has been quite competitive. The solid market performance of the Xbox significantly increases the market outlook for future game systems from Microsoft. According to Cole, "we think Microsoft and the Xbox could be potentially strong in Europe, a region that has been somewhat neglected by video game hardware manufacturers."  

The new report titled Worldwide Market Forecasts for the Video Game and Interactive Entertainment Industry is 500 pages and contains complete forecasts to 2007 for video game systems, portable game systems and computer games. Forecasts are broken down by individual platform for three major regions: Japan, Europe and the U.S. For more information go to www.dfcint.com.

[If they have Jennifer Garner show up along with the new Alias game, who cares what else they've got?]

1588

TalkBack / Acclaim's E3 Lineup

« on: April 17, 2003, 09:49:11 AM »

If they have Jennifer Garner show up along with the new Alias game, who cares what else they've got?

Acclaim Entertainment, Inc. Unveils Product Lineup For May's 2003 Electronic Entertainment Expo

Products to Span All Next-Generation Gaming Platforms And Encompass Popular Action, Sports and Racing Genres  

GLEN COVE, N.Y., April 17 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Gearing up for the interactive entertainment industry's largest annual event, the Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3), Acclaim Entertainment, Inc. today unveiled its diverse product lineup that will be on display at the Los Angeles Convention Center May 14-16. Spanning all of the next-generation gaming platforms and such popular genres as action, sports and racing, Acclaim is planning on featuring more than eight new brands, as well as making additional product announcements throughout the trade show.

"We are very excited about our 2003 release schedule and look forward to having these titles on display for the world to see during this year's E3 show," said Rod Cousens, Global President and Chief Operating Officer for Acclaim. "As the global audience for interactive entertainment continues to expand, we have focused our resources on creating a lineup that will appeal to the masses and hardcore gamers alike."

Acclaim's E3 product lineup includes:

ALIAS*

Based on ABC Television's hit drama series, "Alias" is a third-person action adventure video game that allows players to step into the role of the series' lead character, Sydney Bristow, an agent for the CIA. Bristow must use her cunning, extensive knowledge of martial arts and array of high-tech gadgetry to accomplish dangerous missions. "Alias" will encompass all of the key elements behind the series' success, including high-action combat, stealth missions and time-based objectives, espionage, intriguing plot twists, high-tech weaponry and stunning game play locations that span the globe.

GLADIATOR SWORD OF VENGEANCE

An epic adventure set in ancient Rome, where warriors' fates are decided by the cold steel of a sword. Gladiator Sword of Vengeance will feature an intuitive combat system that allows players to fight multiple opponents and unleash an array of deadly combo attacks and bloody finishing moves.

NBA JAM

The more than 6 million-unit-selling Granddaddy of Basketball is back! Redesigned from the ground-up for the next-generation gaming systems, NBA JAM brings supercharged NBA play to life with over-the-top, arcade-style, 3-on-3 basketball featuring its signature spectacular high-flying dunks, power-ups and hidden secrets.

SUMMER HEAT BEACH VOLLEYBALL

Summer Heat Beach Volleyball delivers the excitement of beach volleyball and takes players to the hottest locations to compete in 2-on-2 action. Highlighted by an all-new "Super Spike" system that allows gamers to earn special moves, speed-ups and unlock secret features, this is one day at the beach that gamers won't want to miss.

SPEED KINGS

Speed Kings is the full-on adrenaline rush of street motorcycle racing, right in the safety of your living room. Featuring insane stunts, including jumping over trains and powersliding under trucks, Speed Kings challenges players to become the high-performance king of the blacktop.

SX SUPERSTAR

SX Superstar is a wild ride into the essence of supercross, filled with arcade-racing action that will release the rock star within. In SX Superstar, players are the stars, taking their rider from the poorhouse to the penthouse. Pull huge air and squash the competition for a big win, then line your pockets with cold, hard cash. Rake in enough bucks and start living the good life with better bikes, bigger houses and of course, hotter chicks.

URBAN FREESTYLE STREET SOCCER

Urban Freestyle Soccer takes the world's most popular sport back to its street roots with gang-style teams competing against their rivals for the rights to home turf. It's a brand new type of soccer, featuring mind-blowing freestyle tricks and no rules in authentic, visually striking urban environments.

XGRA: Extreme-G Racing Association

The next installment in the critically acclaimed Extreme-G racing series, XGRA will transcend the racing genre. In addition to the ultra fast racing and high-tech weaponry that the series is known for, XGRA will incorporate a futuristic racing organization that will enable players to become part of mercenary teams that run for the highest rewards.

For more information about Acclaim's 2003 E3 lineup, please visit www.acclaim.com. Acclaim's complete showcase of products will be featured at E3 in Los Angeles, CA at booth #152 in the Concourse Hall.

[In another sign of the unstable Japanese economy, the two Japanese giants might look to pool their talent, and more importantly, their money.]

1589

TalkBack / Namco and Sega Merger?

« on: April 16, 2003, 08:23:28 PM »

In another sign of the unstable Japanese economy, the two Japanese giants might look to pool their talent, and more importantly, their money.

As everyone knows, Sega has been on the auction block for who knows how long.  Even after it announced a partnership with Sammy, developer of the Guilty Gear series (which wasn't thought to be a good move by investors), Sega is still not getting enough income to stay comfortably afloat in the ridiculously competitive Japanese game market.

Enter Namco, who has reportedly offered a merger with Sega.  Enter the spokesperson:

"Though we have been considered rival companies, we believe a merger would help both firms increase our competitiveness," said a Namco spokeswoman.  

"We have asked Sega to consider it last year," she said, declining to disclose other details about the request.

A merger of this magnitude, if it were to go through, would make the combined Sega-Namco company the largest in Japan, surpassing the likes of Nintendo, Konami, and the newly-formed Square-Enix.

For the rest of the thrilling details, go read the full article.

[Harrison and Miyamoto offer quotes in what turns out to be a fair assessment of what Nintendo needs to do.]

1590

TalkBack / CNN Article on the State of Nintendo

« on: April 16, 2003, 07:59:42 PM »

Harrison and Miyamoto offer quotes in what turns out to be a fair assessment of what Nintendo needs to do.

The CNN Money article talks about what Nintendo has been doing and what it needs to do in order to reclaim the industry that it once ruled with an iron fist.  The article contains some comments from George Harrison (ones that we've heard before), a comment about Mario from Miyamoto, and an interesting note about the Game Boy Player, due out this June.

Here are a few tidbits:

Nintendo's chief gaming architect Shigeru Miyamoto agreed with criticism that the Mario game was too hard. And, in a decision that might anger the hardcore crowd, the word has since come from up high to make games less challenging.  

As for online gaming? Forget it. Nintendo is still very skeptical about the concept, saying consumers might be interested, but have shown no willingness to pay for it. The company was particularly discouraged by the disappointing launch of "The Sims Online". Harrison's gut feeling is online Nintendo games are "probably a few years away. It really depends on the success of the GameCube and whether people think it's worth the investment."

For the whole article, give your index finger a workout and click.

[Play the Game Boy Advance game on the beach, if you so desire.]

1591

TalkBack / Pro Beach Soccer Revealed for Europe

« on: April 16, 2003, 10:13:25 AM »

Play the Game Boy Advance game on the beach, if you so desire.

WANADOO and PAM DEVELOPMENT present Pro Beach Soccer

Due out in May 2003 on XoxTM/PS2/GBA/PC - The first Beach Soccer video game designed especially for fans of football and arcade games.

Discover all the excitement of this new sport which is taking football's greatest stars by storm. This arcade game is set in the unique and exotic atmosphere of stadiums from Rio to Dubai. Pro Beach Soccer is a fun game with cool looking players, spectacular moves and DJs playing hot tunes in the different settings!

A festive atmosphere for a relaxed game

Beach soccer originated in Brazil and is a spectacular sport played on sand – which gives it a different dimension to standard football. Aimed at both football and arcade game fans, Pro Beach Soccer combines a wide variety of acrobatic feats with a sound and light extravaganza. In Pro Beach Soccer, the athletes and spectators create a unique vibe packed with action, sun and music.

Straightforward controls, easy to learn

Its ease of use makes Pro Beach Soccer a very fun game: chips, slides, and flying volleys are just some of beach soccer's fun moves. Physical and technical options for each move mean that there's great variety of control. And button combinations can be used to take special aerial shots on goal.  

With game modes that alternate between realism and arcade mode, Pro Beach Soccer gives you the perfect opportunity of becoming this new sport's main star. For example, in Pro Beach Soccer Tour mode, you can take part in a whole season of beach soccer: take on the best teams in the world (32 teams) and play in all 4 corners of the earth in unbelievably exotic locations! For those who love short intense challenges, the arcade / survival mode will let them take on 14 teams in a row!

Jump straight into a once-off match in exhibition mode and play till 4 players (1 against 2, 2 against 2...) The training mode will let you take part in 4 playful tests designed to help you master the game's more complicated aspects.

Finally, the competition editor will let you create your own league and tournaments.

Astonishingly realistic players and moves

The attention paid to detail in the rendering of the players will ensure users are truly immersed in the game: the smallest changes to facial expression and eye movement are clearly visible. This realism was made possible thanks to the multitude of animations recorded – for the first time ever on a sand court – during the motion capture sessions carried out with two stars of the Spanish team: the striker Ramiro Figueiras Amarelle and the goalkeeper Roberto Valeiro Mato. These sessions gave rise to an authentic and accurate reproduction of real beach soccer moves such as tackles, sand-specific moves and chips.

Casual player styles

Great care has been taken to give players individual styles: bandanas, sunglasses, coloured sun block, fashionable hairstyles and earrings make up a beach soccer player's typical outfit. The whole is topped off by a trendy, brightly coloured jersey..

A non-stop sound and vision extravaganza

From Rio to Venice Beach, each location has its own unique atmosphere. For example, the games are commentated by local DJs who speak the local languages (French, Brazilian, American, Asian,etc...) and also ensure the crowds are kept entertained. In command behind their decks, they aren't shy about passing lively and provocative comments on the players' actions or about playing hot tunes to back up their remarks. Pro Beach Soccer is played in 4 different locations (Rio, Marseilles, Venice Beach and Bangkok ) and in 2 different lighting conditions (dusk and night).

The game was designed in conjunction with the Beach Soccer Federation (BSWW) whose help was essential in capturing all the nuances of beach soccer.

Characteristics:

• Cool players, beach babes, acrobatic moves and DJs playing hot tunes make Pro Beach Soccer a non-stop feast for the senses.
• Perform spectacular moves and dramatic aerial manoeuvres thanks to the "pick up and play" control method
• Choose one of the 4 exotic locations: Rio, Marseilles, Bangkok and Venice Beach each either at dusk or at night
• Get boosted by live commentaries performed by DJs present in the stadium
• Play Arcade modes (Survival, Competition editor...) and more realistic modes (Pro Beach Soccer Tour)
• Play as the official top scorers of the Beach Soccer World Wide Federation : Eric Cantona, Julio Salinas, Daniele Massaro,...
• Challenge a friend with the cable link! (Game Boy Advance)

Informations and goodies of Pro Beach Soccer are also available on the net: www.beachsoccer-game.com.

The game is due out in Europe on May 27.  There are no plans for a North American release.

[Spark will be the developer of Activision's Call of Duty line, and apparently the publisher wants them to stick around for a while.]

1592

TalkBack / Activision ans Spark Sign Long-Term Deal

« on: April 16, 2003, 10:02:46 AM »

Spark will be the developer of Activision's Call of Duty line, and apparently the publisher wants them to stick around for a while.

ACTIVISION ANNOUNCES LONG-TERM EXCLUSIVE PUBLISHING PARTNERSHIP WITH SPARK UNLIMITED

London, UK -April 16, 2003 - Activision, Inc. announced today that the company has signed an exclusive, long-term agreement to publish games developed by Spark Unlimited, a newly formed studio comprised of 28 of the individuals who developed titles in the Medal of HonorTM console and PC series, including several of the production leads. Members of the Spark team have worked on such best-selling games as Medal of Honor FrontlineTM, Medal of Honor Allied AssaultTM, Medal of HonorTM Underground and Medal of Honor.

Under the terms of the agreement, Spark will develop three console-based games for Activision that will be released on multiple platforms. The first title, which will be released under the Call of DutyTM brand, will be a first-person action game that is slated for release in 2004.  

"Spark is an incredibly talented developer," said Larry Goldberg, executive vice president of Activision Worldwide Studios. "The team members have an impressive track record of making first-person action games. Through this alliance, we will be able to continue delivering fantastic titles on the console platforms for many years to come."

"We are very excited about forming this partnership with Activision," said Craig Allen, Chief Executive Officer of Spark Unlimited. "Our goal is to create innovative titles that deliver uniquely realistic and entertaining gaming experiences. To do that, we have developed proprietary tools and licensed technology so our artists, game designers, animators, and sound engineers will have an unparalleled ability to directly impact every element of our game. Activision's commitment to Spark demonstrates their desire to support high- quality, artistically driven titles and we look forward to working together to create a number of really great games."

[Who wouldn't want to play with toys named Death, Famine, Pestilence, and War?]

1593

TalkBack / Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse Toys Coming

« on: April 16, 2003, 09:41:19 AM »

Who wouldn't want to play with toys named Death, Famine, Pestilence, and War?

THE 3DO COMPANY AND STAN WINSTON CREATURES SIGN TOY LICENSE AGREEMENT FOR "THE FOUR HORSEMEN OF THE APOCALYPSE(TM)"

FOUR HORSEMEN ACTION FIGURES TO GALLOP TO RETAIL STORES THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

REDWOOD CITY, CA (April 15, 2003) - The 3DO Company today announced that it signed a merchandising license agreement with Stan Winston Creatures for "The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse(TM)." This holiday season, the four horsemen - Death(TM), Famine(TM), Pestilence(TM), and War(TM) - will be available as the first line of fully-poseable action figures from the game. The figures will be manufactured and distributed in partnership with The National Entertainment Collectible Association (NECA.)

According to the agreement, Stan Winston Creatures also has first right of refusal for resin cast figures of the same characters. Stan Winston, four-time Oscar winner for creature effects on "Aliens," "Terminator 2: Judgment Day," and "Jurassic Park," is also a consultant on the game's character designs and has optioned the feature film rights.

"Stan Winston has an undisputable reputation for bringing dynamic creatures vividly to life," said Trip Hawkins, chief executive officer, The 3DO Company. "We are confident that Stan Winston Creatures will breathe intricate details and larger-than-life personalities into the action figures of the four horsemen."

"With the enormous talent behind 'The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse,' the game is visually stunning," said Stan Winston of Stan Winston Productions. "However, the complexity and depth of the characters are what translates best into action figures, and I couldn't pass on the opportunity."

About Stan Winston Creatures

For over 30 years, Stan Winston and his team of artists and technicians have been creating characters, creatures and monsters for motion pictures and television with the goal of creating images that are forever etched into your imagination. Stan Winston has been nominated for ten Academy Awards and has won four Oscars for his work in "Aliens" (1986), "Terminator 2: Judgment Day" (1991), and "Jurassic Park" (1993).

About "The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse" Game

A dark adventure, "The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse" combines the expertise of celebrated artists Simon Bisley and Dave DeVries with the voice talents of Tim Curry ("The Hunt for Red October," "Charlie's Angels," "The Three Musketeers"), Lance Henriksen ("The Right Stuff," "Aliens," "Millennium") and cult film star Traci Lords ("Melrose Place," "Profiler," "First Wave").  

The game is set in the present day, as the archangel Abaddon faces possessed zealots, demons, and the daunting powers of the personified plagues of Mankind: Pestilence, War, Famine and Death. As Abaddon, the player must find the three "Chosen" and combine their untapped powers in time to save the world from destruction. It won't be easy - God's Chosen are mortals: a prostitute, a serial killer and a corrupt politician.

The story unfolds via in-game cinematics and "graphic novel" sequences by Bisley, the title's character designer. These graphic novel images are displayed on-screen complete with animations, voices and sound effects, bringing his work to life and immersing the player in the dark underworld of Hell's emissaries.  

Features of the game include:

• Incredible gore and destruction effects including dismemberment, realistic and dynamic exit wounds through objects and people, morph animations, and blood splatters.
• Diverse weaponry lends itself to spectacular cinematic violence - swords for melee combat, automatic weapons, projectiles for ranged combat, and magic (slow time).
• Mature content with adult themes and extreme violence.
• Stunning deaths (finishing moves) and Hollywood-style combat moves choreographed and performed by the Smashcut Action Team ("The Matrix 1-3," "Fight Club," "The Crow").
• More than 18 levels of photo-realistic play that sweep players through gothic environments, the post-apocalypse of World War III, and the depths of Hell itself.

"The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse" is planned for release in Fall 2003. More information about the game is available at www.4horsemen-game.com.

[Acclaim finds a nice musical line-up for its supercross game.]

1594

TalkBack / Acclaim Reveals SX Superstar Soundtrack

« on: April 16, 2003, 09:30:27 AM »

Acclaim finds a nice musical line-up for its supercross game.

AKA Acclaim Kick Starts the Racing Action With In-Game Music Soundtrack For 'SX Superstar'

Today's Top Artists, Including The Deftones, Box Car Racer, N.E.R.D. and Fenix*TX, Provide Tracks for New Supercross Game

GLEN COVE, N.Y., April 16 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Combining high-flying, two-wheel action with heart-pumping, adrenaline infused tunes, AKA Acclaim, a division of Acclaim Entertainment, Inc., today unveiled the in-game music soundtrack for its summer release, SX Superstar(TM). Featuring today's top artists including The Deftones, Box Car Racer, N.E.R.D. and Fenix*TX, SX Superstar will be available across all next-generation systems. "AKA Acclaim is committed to matching its games with dynamic soundtracks that enhance the game play experience," said Ben Fischbach, Director of AKA Acclaim. "SX Superstar combines cutting-edge sights and sounds to deliver the best in action sports entertainment for the masses."

Acclaim's official SX Superstar in-game music soundtrack includes:  

• The Deftones - "My Own Summer";
• Jimmie's Chicken Shack - "High";
• pitchshifter - "Genius" and "Microwaved";
• Apollo Four Forty - "Cold Rock the Mic";
• Orange 9mm - "Take You Away";
• Fenix*TX - "Something Bad is Gonna Happen";
• No Use For A Name - "Justified Black Eye";
• Box Car Racer - "I Feel So";
• N.E.R.D. - "Rockstar";
• 28 Days - "Rip It Up"

Step into the world of SX Superstar, an ultra-realistic trip into the essence of supercross, full of smoking arcade-racing action that will release the rock star within. In SX Superstar, players are the stars, taking their riders from the poorhouse to the penthouse. By pulling huge air tricks and squashing the competition, riders can earn enough money to start living the good life with better bikes, bigger houses and of course, hotter chicks.

SX Superstar will be available this summer for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, the Xbox(TM) video game system from Microsoft and Nintendo GameCube(TM), each at suggested retail prices of $29.99. For a complete list of features and to order SX Superstar, please visit www.akaacclaim.com.

[Radica's Play TV brand will soon see Madden and SSX Tricky come its way.]

1595

TalkBack / Radica and Electronic Arts Join Forces

« on: April 15, 2003, 10:39:22 AM »

Radica's Play TV brand will soon see Madden and SSX Tricky come its way.

Radica(R) Games Limited Announces Licensing Agreement With Electronic Arts

HONG KONG, April 15 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Radica Games Limited announced today a licensing agreement with Electronic Arts to produce a line of Play TV games based off of EA's Madden Football and SSX franchises. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

With the tag line, "Get off the couch and into the game," Radica's Play TV line will offer "virtual physical reality" gameplay based on popular EA games. The games will plug into a TV or VCR and allow players to be active participants in the game they are playing.

"EA is a premier publisher of best-selling software for video game and PC platforms; Radica is thrilled to have this outstanding opportunity to partner with such a leading company," said Pat Feely, CEO of Radica. "EA has strong consumer recognition and represents the highest standard of quality in video game products. We intend to continue that tradition by developing unique and compelling Play TV game experiences."

"We are excited by the potential of the new products Radica will publish and the opportunity to extend our games into this growing category," said Linda Chaplin, director of strategic sales for EA.

Under the terms of the agreement, Radica will manufacture EA branded Play TV games for North American distribution. Radica will introduce the first EA branded Play TV game in 2004.

[Midway takes a stab at survival horror. Just don't drop the soap.]

1596

TalkBack / Midway Reveals The Suffering

« on: April 15, 2003, 09:35:28 AM »

Midway takes a stab at survival horror.  Just don't drop the soap.

Midway Offers Haunting Probe into Action Horror with the Suffering

The Suffering Places Gamers Inside the Unsettling and Seedy Underbelly of a Haunted Maximum-Security Penitentiary

CHICAGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 15, 2003-- Midway Games Inc., a leading software industry publisher and developer, announced today that The Suffering(TM), an all-new, action-packed survival horror game, is scheduled to ship fall 2003 for the PlayStation® 2 computer entertainment system, the Xbox(TM) video game system from Microsoft and Nintendo GameCube(TM).    Midway captures the disturbing and terrifying nature of the horror genre with The Suffering, a compelling third-person action/adventure game set in the mature and gritty world of a maximum-security prison.  

"The Suffering redefines terror with a chilling look into a penitentiary haunted by apparitions of executed prisoners grotesquely reincarnated as the methods of execution that befell them," said Helene Sheeler, vice president of marketing, Midway.  

Unleashing the horror throughout nine levels, The Suffering features dynamic lighting that illuminates frightening visions of horror-filled exploration and frantic combat sequences. In the dark world of The Suffering, creatures attack from the shadows and emerge from jail cells, chambers, the ground and trees, surprising the player in the most disturbing ways possible. As Torque, the main character, players encounter a cast of uniquely hardened criminals, prison guards and grotesque apparitions.  

Jailed for a murder he may or may not have committed, Torque is next in line for execution when apparitions besiege the prison and inadvertently free him. Utilizing more than ten deadly weapons, Torque sets out to uncover his past and unlock the deadly secrets of The Suffering. In the game, players can transform Torque into his monstrous alter ego and unleash the power of his primal fury while battling 12 horrific creatures. Depending on how they play the game, players will arrive at three distinct endings for a unique gaming experience.  

Stan Winston, renowned creature designer, contributed to The Suffering's horror-filled experience by creating artwork of some of the disturbing characters featured in the game. For more than 30 years Stan Winston has created characters, creatures and monsters for motion pictures and television. The four-time Academy Award winner is responsible for creating many of the most enduring creatures of the big screen, including the dinosaurs of "Jurassic Park," the extraterrestrial monstrosities of "Aliens" and the fanciful character of "Edward Scissorhands." Nominated for an Academy Award for "A.I.," Stan Winston is currently working on the upcoming "T3" starring Arnold Schwarzenegger.  

The Suffering Key Features:  

• Terrifying Levels - Nine levels - traverse indoor and outdoor terrain with horror lurking in every dark corner.
• Frightening Character Morphs - Fill the rage meter and transform Torque into a hideous and powerful creature.
• Deadly Weapons - More than 10 deadly weapons from the shiv to the tommy gun to aid in the survival of this freakish nightmare.
• Horrific Monsters - A dozen monsters, each representing the methods of execution that befell them.
• Gory Detail - Blood and gore, dripping, pooling and splattering at every level of the fright-filled journey.
• Disturbing Choices - Interact with different hardened criminals and determine their fate.
• Unique Endings - Three distinct endings depending on how the game is played.
• Taboo Environments - Explore the deepest recesses of the most wicked prison environment.

[The anticipated space shooter is finally here, and with internet ranking to boot.]

1597

TalkBack / Ikaruga Ships for GameCube

« on: April 15, 2003, 09:20:04 AM »

The anticipated space shooter is finally here, and with internet ranking to boot.

Atari Ships Innovative and Addictive Ikaruga for Nintendo GameCube

Wildly Popular Japanese Shooter Fires Its Way to American Store Shelves

BEVERLY, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 15, 2003--Atari today announced that the much-anticipated hit Japanese game Ikaruga(TM) for the Nintendo GameCube(TM) next generation console system has shipped to retail outlets nationwide. The game comes loaded with glorious graphics, awesome action and incredible firepower.

"Ikaruga delivers addictive gameplay combined with intense firepower that loyal fans of the shooter genre have come to expect," said Nancy MacIntyre, Vice President of Marketing for Infogrames' Beverly studio. "With a phenomenal reputation that precedes it, Ikaruga is the import core gamers have been waiting for and more."  

Ikaruga was originally developed for the arcade and for Sega DreamCast by Treasure -- a highly respected developer of console action games -- and has become one of the most beloved of all shooter titles. Those already familiar with Ikaruga will appreciate vital game upgrades such as enhanced graphics, a new demo mode that clues players in to the "perfect" round and private passwords that let high scorers post their accomplishments on the official Ikaruga Web site and establish bragging rights within the worldwide Ikaruga community.  

Ikaruga is a comprehensive, scrolling space shooter (with options for either a vertical, horizontal or letterbox display) set in 2D, against a rich 3D backdrop. The game is an ideal combination of rich Japanese storytelling and high-powered, fighter pilot heroics. Players take the role of our hero, Shinra, the lone survivor of a freedom federation that was massacred by the evil, power-hungry conqueror Tenro Horai. Now Shinra, in his newly-built ship, the Ikaruga, must fight for an aging, exiled people who are depending upon him for their survival. Join the sole warrior as he battles the evil Horai in the hopes of restoring peace.  

Ikaruga retails with an MSRP of $39.99. For more information, please visit www.us.infogrames.com or www.ikaruga-atari.net.

[Official Team Results:]

1598

Podcast Discussion / Planet Team Trivia: 11 April 2003

« on: April 12, 2003, 03:04:09 PM »

Official Team Results:
6 - TEAMKKR**
5 - TeamGato*
4 - ^_^*
3 - HappyNess* :: NINTY* :: FIGHTINFOOS*
2 - DJ :: TROGDOR :: ADVANCE   
1 - IronChef :: SSB :: T :: [N00B]

*Indicates bonus points earned; list excludes players without teams




Official SuperStats:
Questions Answered: 29/30
Teams Scoring: 13
Players Scoring: 20
Time of Trivia: 59m 36s
Rulesbreakers Banned: 3
Max Channel Load: 61



Question Writers:
14 - WindyMan :: (17-30)
7 - AussieBen :: (03-08, 16)
6 - StrikerObi :: (09-14)
2 - kirbydark :: (01-02)
1 - Deguello :: (15)



Questions:
p)How does th
01) In Ocarina of Time, what records are listed in Link's house?
02) What names did Nintendo's developers use to refer to the 2 characters that would later evolve into Pikmin?
03) Which Game Boy Color game features female goldfish being kidnapped by aliens?
04) What is the name of the Cabbage Farmer who kidnaps Muddy Mole's family in "Mole Mania"? (spelling)
05) What's the catch to Chet Rippo's stat increase in Paper Mario?
06) What are the seven types of Nibbley Pibbleys found in the NES Snake, Rattle n' Roll?
07) What type of character do you fight in Pokémon Puzzle Challenge to get their Togepi?
08) In Conker's Bad Fur Day, what is The Great Mighty Poo's name according to the credits?
09) Who did the voice for Xel'latoth in Eternal Darkness? (no name needed, just find the person)
10) Who are the first four characters you use in Lunar Legend? (GBA)
11) How do you knock out King Hippo? (two-part answer)
12) Who are the two selectable characters in Bad Dudes? (NES)
13) What was the new president of Retro Studios doing before his job change? (full job title)
14) In Crazy Taxi, who has the license plate number 5EXY515?
15) Who is the only common Animal Crossing character with carnivorous tendencies?
- - - - -
16) What are the names of all four English Pokémon mini games?
17) What's the next GameCube game due for release?
18) What's "Brilliant"? (recent)
19) Which two characters are on the PAL version box art for Killer Instinct Gold?
20) What's the URL to Ubi Soft's website? (make it clickable)
21) What's the name of the only college basketball game on the N64? (full name)
22) After you beat NARC for the NES, what does the game suggest you do?
23) What was the name of the first level of the Game Boy game, Baby T-Rex?
24) What does A.L.S. Industries primarily make for Nintendo?
25) What did the L button do in the original N64 Super Smash Bros.?
26) Who was the "Maker" of the NES Defender of the Crown?
27) What are the two unlockable cars in the original Burnout?
28) Which NES Rare game had its instruction manual printed out in both English and Italian?
29) What's the full name to the sequel of Aerobiz on the SNES?
30) Based on how the NES game ends, Where's Waldo?



Answers:
p]<TeamGato-Mumbo> the answer is JANET RENO
01] <IronChef-ulanshad> Running Man record, skultullas, horse race, fishing, archery
02] <SSB-Blaster009> adam and eve
03] <TeamGato-Mumbo> fish files
04] <TeamGato-Mumbo> jinbe
05] <TeamGato-Mumbo> it brings down your other stats
06] <DJ-Matt|> Pibball  Pibblebats pibbleboing  Pibblefish pibblejoggers Pibblecopters Pibblesplats  
07] <HappyNess-TKnHappyNess> Pokefan
08] Chucky Poo
09] <HappyNess-Mikemn> denis's wife
10] <TeamGato-Carlos> ramus , alex , luna , nash
11] <TROGDOR-Sir_Pinch-a-Loaf> jab to face, punch in stomach
12] <DJ-Matt|> blade striker
13] <NINTY-ExtremeGamer311> Business Development at NOA
14] <^_^-Tavir> gina
15] <Rimmer> wendell
- - - - -
16] <TEAMKKR-Kentop> party mini, pinball mini, zany cards, uzzle collection
17] <T-Kimchi> battlebots
18] <ADVANCE-NikJam> GBA SP
19] <Rimmer> tusk and fulgore
20] <TEAMKKR-noj3> http://ubi.com/
21] <^_^-SS4Gogita> Fox Sports College Hoops '99
22] <TEAMKKR-Kentop> contact local dea  recruiter
23] <ADVANCE-NikJam> the jugnel
24] <[N00B]-Xero> cases
25] <^_^-Tavir> taunt
26] <TROGDOR-Sir_Pinch-a-Loaf> PALCOM
27] <FIGHTINFOOS-TheHumanCow> towtruck, bus
28] <TEAMKKR-noj3> DIGGER T. ROCK
29] <FIGHTINFOOS-Sharparoni> aerobiz supersonic
30] <NINTY-cell84> on the moon



Individual Scores:
3 - TeamGato-Mumbo
2 - TROGDOR-Sir_Pinch-a-Loaf :: TEAMKKR-Kentop :: ADVANCE-NikJam
2 - ^_^-Tavir :: DJ-Matt| :: Rimmer :: TEAMKKR-noj3
1 - IronChef-ulanshad :: NINTY-ExtremeGamer311 :: SSB-Blaster009 :: TeamGato-Carlos
1 - T-Kimchi :: [N00B]-Xero :: FIGHTINFOOS-TheHumanCow :: FIGHTINFOOS-Sharparoni
1 - NINTY-cell84 ::  :: ^_^-SS4Gogita :: HappyNess-Mikemn :: HappyNess-TKnHappyNess

[Well, for domestic software sales, anyway, beating out Konami.]

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TalkBack / Nintendo Number One in Japan

« on: April 11, 2003, 10:03:22 AM »

Well, for domestic software sales, anyway, beating out Konami.

Even though Nintendo is far behind Sony in the console hardware market in the homeland, Nintendo still manages to sell a bunch of GC and GBA software.  Japanese magazine publisher Enterbrain (publisher of Famitsu Weekly) has tallied up the sales from the past year ending March 31, and has deterimined that Nintendo is number one.

Konami Corp, which shoved Nintendo aside in the April-September period thanks to "World Soccer Winning Eleven 6", came in at number two, as Nintendo's "Pokemon Ruby" and "Pokemon Sapphire" were the nation's best-selling games on the year.

For the rest of the Reuters article, including a bit on the hardware sales, click.

[The console that offers value by the pound looks to shake up console pricing again, but Nintendo doesn't seem to be all that worried.]

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TalkBack / Xbox Price Cuts Looming; Nintendo Unfazed

« on: April 10, 2003, 08:09:44 PM »

The console that offers value by the pound looks to shake up console pricing again, but Nintendo doesn't seem to be all that worried.

Last year, when Sony cut the price of the PS2 down to $199, Microsoft was forced to follow suit, and Nintendo was left no choice to make their GameCube $149.  With Microsoft announcing a 20% price cut in Europe, the rumor mill is turning with the story that a US price cut is next, getting the jump on Sony.

Naturally, any cut that brings the price of the Xbox or PS2 down too close to Nintendo's $149 GameCube range might invoke Nintendo to lower the price the system even more.  However, rather than get the jump on Sony and Microsoft, Nintendo's George Harrison says they'd rather take a wait-and-see approach.  Here's a clip from the Reuters' news story:

Nintendo made it clear on Thursday that if there are to be price cuts, it will not be the one to initiate the move.  

"It is not in our plans. We have historically not led price cuts," George Harrison, a senior vice president with Nintendo of America, told Reuters. "There is always pressure built up before E3 .... We will have to see as we get there."

With Nintendo struggling to sell GameCubes, another price cut might help to boost system sales across the board.  We'll have more details on this as E3 grows closer, but in the meantime, check out the full story on the Xbox cuts here.