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[Get ready to grapple on both Nintendo platforms this fall.]

201

TalkBack / THQ Bring Smackdown vs. Raw 2009 to Wii, DS

« on: March 30, 2008, 10:28:54 AM »

Get ready to grapple on both Nintendo platforms this fall.
 http://nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=15657

 The Number One Fighting Videogame Franchise Returns to the Virtual Ring with WWE® SmackDown® vs. Raw® 2009    

Leading Videogame Brand Set to Deliver the Definitive Sports Entertainment Experience With Added Depth, Explosive New Features and the Debut of Downloadable Content    

  AGOURA HILLS, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--THQ Inc. (NASDAQ:THQI) and JAKKS Pacific, Inc. (NASDAQ:JAKK) today announced that WWE® SmackDown® vs. Raw® 2009 is in development for the Xbox 360® videogame and entertainment system from Microsoft, PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system, PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system, Wii™ videogame console, Nintendo DS™ and mobile devices. Joining the immensely successful World Wrestling Entertainment® roster of WWE SmackDown/SmackDown vs. Raw licensed videogames, which have shipped more than 37 million units worldwide since 1999, WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2009 is expected to begin shipping to retail outlets worldwide this fall.    

“The ambitious cross-platform launch of WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2008 last year yielded tremendous growth for the franchise, as we delivered multiple gameplay experiences across seven platforms and greatly expanded our audience of WWE videogame fans,” said Bob Aniello, senior vice president, worldwide marketing, THQ. “With dynamic new features and the extension of our gameplay experience through downloadable content, WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2009 will bring more console, handheld and wireless gamers together to enjoy the virtual world of WWE.”    

“We are tremendously excited about the next groundbreaking release in the billion dollar WWE SmackDown vs. Raw videogame franchise,” said Nelo Lucich, vice president of interactive, JAKKS Pacific. “Downloadable content, innovative experiences with tag teams and a new Create-A-Finisher feature, along with significant annual improvements across all platforms, combine to bring the sports entertainment experience to new heights and gratify our long-time fans, casual gamers and franchise newcomers alike.”    

WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2009 upholds the franchise’s commitment to delivering the definitive videogame simulation of live WWE programming. The Xbox 360, PLAYSTATION 3 system, PlayStation 2 system and PSP system versions of the game will unleash a brand new tag team experience, allowing players to build momentum and attributes, eliminate opponents with high impact double teams and finishers, as well as get the “hot tag” for the win. The franchise’s renowned creation system offers a brand new Create-A-Finisher option, while a new Road to WrestleMania® Mode paves the way to WWE’s biggest event of the year and lets players experience co-op storylines for the first time. WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2009 also extends the virtual WWE gameplay experience with robust online capabilities, including the highly anticipated debut of downloadable content.    

WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2009 for Wii builds upon its inaugural offering by significantly expanding its match type options, giving players more ways to enjoy the platform’s unique pick-up-and-play experience. The game also takes full combat sports entertainment to the next level by giving players more Superstar control with interactive entrances and victory scenes. WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2009 for Wii will also include a wide variety of new weapons, the debut of online gameplay and much more.    

WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2009 for Nintendo DS returns with new gameplay controls that utilize the stylus and D-pad to deliver a compelling handheld fighting game experience. The redesigned Season Mode takes a role-playing approach, allowing players to interact with Superstars, upgrade their abilities and complete missions on a quest toward legendary goals. In addition, a larger Superstar roster, new match types and the inclusion of Create-A-Superstar will provide players with a variety of intriguing options to enhance gameplay.    

More information about WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2009 can be found at www.smackdownvsraw.com and www.thq.com.

[The wait is over for Ryu Hayabusa's latest adventure, and New Yorkers can get their copy autographed as well.]

202

TalkBack / Tecmo Ships Ninja Gaiden Dragon Sword for DS

« on: March 25, 2008, 11:34:59 AM »

The wait is over for Ryu Hayabusa's latest adventure, and New Yorkers can get their copy autographed as well.
 http://nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=15608

 Tecmo Launches Ninja Gaiden® Dragon Sword    

Prepare for Master Ninja Ryu Hayabusa’s Action Packed Adventure    

Nintendo World Store and Director/Producer Yosuke Hayashi to Host In-Store Launch Event on March 26th    

  TORRANCE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Tecmo®, the company behind the ultimate ninja action game series Ninja Gaiden®, today announced the release of the highly-anticipated Ninja Gaiden Dragon Sword for the Nintendo DS™. The title is the first handheld installment in the popular series, which has sold over 2 million units worldwide. Players will fight enemy ninjas and battle various fiends while taking on the role of Master Ninja Ryu Hayabusa and will uncover all the mysteries of Ninja Gaiden Dragon Sword’s brand new storyline. The portable experience promises to deliver the same excitement as its console counterpart.    

“Ninja Gaiden Dragon Sword takes action gaming on the DS to a whole new level,” says Yoh Watanabe, Marketing Manager. “Both fans of the series and newcomers can look forward to an action-packed gameplay experience as they master their ninja skills and moves using the stylus.”    

The game’s unique only-on-DS experience has earned high praise from the press:    

“…Ninja Gaiden Dragon Sword may be the most impressive achievement on the handheld to date” – Nintendo Power    

“It is possibly the most technically proficient title available for the system, brimming with superb, smooth-as-silk visuals and sword-slashing sound effects that make the action practically spring off the screen.” – GameSpot.com    

“…Visually, the game’s a stunner and the action is intense and almost non-stop” - IGN.com    

“It’s clearly among the best-looking titles for the DS platform…Dragon Sword remains a solid example of how to forge a modern action game for the DS” – 1UP.com    

Story:    

Six months have passed since the Dark Dragon Blade Incident, the abominable attack on Hayabusa’s village. Just when calm had finally started to slowly settle over the nearly annihilated village, the story’s heroine Momiji is set upon and abducted by the Black Spider Clan, lead by the sorceress, Obaba. What exactly are their motives in carrying out such a dastardly deed? In order to rescue the kidnapped Momiji, Ryu Hayabusa commits himself to new battles…    

The player maneuvers the main characters Ryu and Momiji to fight against the Black Spider Clan and the demons that lurk behind them. The story is organized into chapters, and as you solve the riddles posed at every turn you get closer to the core of the story. What awaits Ryu Hayabusa at the end of his heroic battles?    

Features:  

 
• Innovative DS Stylus Functionality: Master your weapon – the DS stylus. Smoothly maneuver (slide, tap, up/down) and fight through levels with the intuitive operation of the stylus.  
• Hold the DS Like a Book: Hold the DS with one hand like a book to assist in the operation of the stylus which allows players to view a wider range of scenes, including battle areas, maps and beautifully illustrated comic-book style cut scenes.  
• Cast Ninpo, Ninja Magic, by Symbol Input: Using the DS stylus, draw various symbols to quickly execute numerous types of Ninpo.  
• Visually Stunning Graphics and Scenery: Experience a full-scale action game showcasing dynamic camera work and an artful blend of detailed 2D and 3D environments with 3D characters.  

 To celebrate the launch of Ninja Gaiden Dragon Sword, the Nintendo World Store and Tecmo will be hosting an in-store event tomorrow, March 26th from 2 ~ 6 p.m. Participating guests will have a chance to test their ninja-stylus skills as they demo the game and Team NINJA’s director/producer Yosuke Hayashi will make an appearance for photo opportunities and to sign autographs. Information on the store can be found at www.nintendoworldstore.com.    

Ninja Gaiden Dragon Sword has been rated “T” (Teen) by the Entertainment Software Ratings Board (ESRB) and carries a suggested retail price of US $34.99. More information on the title can be found at www.ninjagaidengame.com.

[Get stranded again.]

203

TalkBack / Konami Ships Lost In Blue 3 for DS

« on: March 18, 2008, 02:41:57 PM »

Get stranded again.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=15575

 KONAMI SHIPS LOST IN BLUE® 3 TO   RETAIL STORES NATIONWIDE    

Escape the Enigmatic Island in the Next Installment of the   Popular Survival Adventure Game Series    

  EL SEGUNDO, Calif. - March 18, 2008 - Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc. today announced that Lost in Blue® 3, developed exclusively for the Nintendo DS™, has shipped to retail stores in North America.  The latest installment in the Lost in Blue series offers multiple characters, a distinct storyline and enhanced game balancing to build upon the innovative game play of the original survival adventure series for the Nintendo DS.    

In Lost in Blue 3, players guide one of two stranded characters, each with their own personal history, through exotic locales on a mysterious island while surviving the elements to stay alive.  Players can work alone or cooperatively with other characters to gather food, explore the island and hunt dangerous wildlife.  Completing one character's storyline will unlock the storylines of two additional characters, allowing players to explore the island in different ways, experience new storylines, and uncover different endings.    

"The updated game balance and the inclusion of multiple characters and storylines have added depth to the brand," said Anthony Crouts, Vice President of Marketing for Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc. "Lost in Blue 3 is sure to satisfy devoted fans of the franchise, as well as attract new players to the hit survival adventure series."    

FEATURES  

 
• Guide up to four separately playable characters, each with their own unique strengths and talents that will impact how you explore the island    

  
  

• Each character's past gradually unfolds throughout the adventure in several flashback episodes; revealed lost memories may provide clues to help them escape the island    

  
  

• Players can spend an equal amount of time between surviving the elements and having fun exploring the island, providing unique gaming experiences    

  
  

• Over 20 mini-games that encompass all aspects of a thrilling island adventure, including rafting down rivers and communicating with dolphins    

  
  

• Endure the environment and overcome various forces of nature such as lightning strikes and earthquakes; severe weather conditions will affect your character's health    

  
  

• Challenge your friends to intense cooking battles via Multi-Card play or use Single Card Download play to share special mini-games  

 Lost in Blue 3 is rated "E 10+" by the ESRB and is available for an SRP of $29.99. For more information, please visit http://www.konami.com'>www.konami.com.

[Forty mini-games await you.]

204

TalkBack / Conspiracy Ships Cocoto Magic Circus for Wii

« on: March 12, 2008, 03:33:45 PM »

Forty mini-games await you.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=15550

 Conspiracy Entertainment's "Cocoto Magic Circus" for Wii Ships to U.S. Retailers    

Conspiracy Entertainment has shipped their newest title for the Nintendo Wii - "Cocoto Magic Circus," to North American retailers today.    

Cocoto Magic Circus is an arcade-style shooter featuring 40 unique and exciting mini-games. The game's four progressive modes -- Arcade, Training, Duel and Tournament -- can accommodate up to four players. Children and parents alike will enjoy this collection of mini-games featuring humorous animated characters on a mission to save a magical fairy.    

"Families nationwide are catching on to the recurring and loveable character Cocoto. The simple, cartoonish and fast-paced style of our latest release is ideal for children six years and up, and its affordable price is sure to make it a hit with families," said Sirus Ahmadi, president of Conspiracy Entertainment.

[Video game music? In a bullring? In Mexico? WHERE DO I SIGN UP?]

205

TalkBack / Video Games Live in Mexico at GamaCon '08

« on: March 10, 2008, 01:45:15 PM »

Video game music?  In a bullring?  In Mexico?  WHERE DO I SIGN UP?
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=15531

 VIDEO GAMES LIVE TO PERFORM FIRST VIDEO GAME CONCERT IN MEXICO THIS WEEKEND!    

7,000+ Seat Bullring Set as Location of Historic Event    

Concert to Coincide with GamaCon '08 Convention    

  LOS ANGELES, CA – In its continuing efforts to show the world how artistic and culturally significant video games have become, Video Games Live will be performing its ground-breaking 2008 World Tour this weekend at the 7000+ seat Plaza de Toros Calafia Bullring in Mexicali, Baja California, Mexico with the prestigious Ensamble de Jóvenes Orchestra and Choir.  The event will take place this Saturday, March 15th at 7:30PM as the grand finale of the newly created GamaCon '08 video game, anime, cosplay and comic book convention (March 14 – 15).    

"We're so proud and honored to be performing our show to so many people in Mexico," said Video Games Live co-creator & conductor Jack Wall.  "It's really great to see this kind of excitement around the world for what we're doing."  Event promoter Hugo Castro added "So many people in Mexico have been looking forward to Video Games Live, the enthusiasm for this event has been like nothing we've ever seen before."    

Mexicali is the capital of the State of Baja California. Situated along the state's northern border with the U.S. state of California, Mexicali is the northernmost city in Latin America.    

Video Games Live currently has over 50 shows scheduled for 2008.  To view recently updated Tour Dates please visit: http://www.videogameslive.com/index.php?s=dates'>http://www.videogameslive.com/index.php?s=dates.    

For ticketing and more information on the Mexicali events please visit: www.eventosrockstar.com'>www.eventosrockstar.com.

[Wii and DS versions to arrive in stores this summer.]

206

TalkBack / Genius Products to Distribute Line Rider

« on: March 10, 2008, 01:36:08 PM »

Wii and DS versions to arrive in stores this summer.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=15530

 GENIUS PRODUCTS LLC EXPANDS ITS OFFERING WITH PUBLISHING AND DISTRIBUTION OF VIDEO GAMES    

The First Release, LINE RIDER™, Expected to Hit Shelves Summer 2008    

Entry into Video Games Leverages Existing Distribution Channels and Management Expertise    

  SANTA MONICA, Calif—March 10, 2008--Genius Products, Inc. (OTCBB: GNPI) "The Company" announced today its expansion into the publishing and distribution of video games. Genius' management team has extensive experience in the video game industry and this growth opportunity is an example of how the company is increasing revenue and earnings growth through new and expanding brand and content partnerships as well as co-productions.    

"Our management expertise in the development, marketing and distribution of video games creates a tremendous growth opportunity for Genius", said Trevor Drinkwater, President and CEO of Genius Products. "As planned, this marks the beginning of our entrance into the fast growing and exciting interactive software category and the expansion of our distribution expertise in multiple entertainment-based product categories."    

Stephen K. Bannon, Chairman of Genius Products said, "In 2008, we enter phase two of our aggressive growth strategy which will focus on revenue growth and improvements in margin through brand and content partnerships, content production, intellectual property ownership, and the acquisition of additional revenue streams. Our planned entry into video games is a great example of value creating, higher margin opportunities we will continue to aggressively pursue in 2008 and beyond."    

The Company plans to offer a number of new game titles in 2008 across a variety of gaming genres.  The initial product, anticipated to hit shelves in the summer of 2008, is Line Rider™.  Based on the Internet phenomenon and developed by InXile, Line Rider is built upon the simple premise of what happens when a boy and his sled are sent traveling along in a world drawn by the player.  With a fan base for the original Internet game numbering over twenty million, the new Line Rider games from Genius Products for Wii™, Nintendo DS™ and PC will take players far beyond the original game with new game modes, new riders, new community features and new creative tools. Offering the ability to create and share gameplay like no game before it, the only limits of Line Rider are the laws of physics and the player's own imagination.    

In Line Rider, the sled-stealing scumbag Chaz is up to no good and only you, as the clever and cunning Bosh, can defeat him.  For Bosh to save his true love Bailey, players must solve over 40 mind-bending puzzles created by the #1 Line Rider player in the world, TechDawg.  Players can also create their own puzzles and story-telling masterpieces and share them on the Internet by posting on sites such as YouTube, Facebook or the official Line Rider Web site   http://www.linerider.com'>www.linerider.com.    

"Over the past few years, we have built one of the preeminent distribution platforms and assembled one of the leading teams in the home entertainment industry.  We are well positioned to deliver record revenue, operating cash flow and earnings by fully exploiting our platform," stated Mr. Stephen K. Bannon.

[Play some of the best Williams pinball machines of yesteryear on your Wii.]

207

TalkBack / Crave Ships Pinball Hall of Fame for Wii

« on: March 10, 2008, 01:23:05 PM »

Play some of the best Williams pinball machines of yesteryear on your Wii.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=15529

 No Quarters Necessary: Crave Brings Classic Pinball Tables to Videogame Consoles    

Pinball Hall of Fame - The Williams® Collection for PSP® system, PlayStation®2 system and Wii™ faithfully recreates legendary Williams tables    

  Newport Beach, Calif.- March 10, 2008- Crave Entertainment, a leading publisher of console videogames, today announced that Pinball Hall of Fame - The Williams Collection, the follow-up to the popular Pinball Hall of Fame - The Gottlieb Collection, is now available for PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system and Wii™.    

Pinball Hall of Fame - The Williams Collection simulates some of the most memorable tables from the golden age of pinball in stunning, photorealistic 3D. Working closely with Williams to ensure authenticity of each of the games, the collection is highlighted by some of the most popular and innovative Williams pinball tables, including Gorgar™, the first-ever talking pinball machine, Black Knight®, which introduced "Magna-Save™" and Bonus Ball, and Space Shuttle™, which took the pinball industry by storm in 1984. Every table has been meticulously recreated to bring players the visuals, sound effects and gameplay that made these games legendary successes. Pinball Hall of Fame - The Williams Collection harkens back to the arcades of the 1980s.    

In Pinball Hall of Fame - The Williams Collection, players can spend as little as two minutes on a quick pinball challenge, or delve deeper into the game, gaining rewards in a token-based system as they unlock rewards like new balls and mirror play. Single-player Arcade and Challenge modes provide hours of solo entertainment, and a Multiplayer mode lets players face each other head-on.    

Pinball Hall of Fame - The Williams Collection is available for PSP® system, PlayStation®2 system and Wii™. Crave Entertainment is a publisher on this product for FarSight Studios, a licensee of Williams Electronic Games, Inc.

[Move along, nothing to see here.]

208

TalkBack / Wii Menu Update v3.2 Now Available

« on: February 25, 2008, 05:13:48 PM »

Move along, nothing to see here.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=15406

 If your Wii is glowing tonight, it's because Nintendo has released Wii Menu version 3.2.    

Compared to the last Wii Menu revision (which updated the Check Mii Out Channel), this update apparently doesn't do much at all beyond upgrading your Wii to version 3.2U.  According to Nintendo's website, it only makes back-end tweaks to "improve system performance".  The Wii console's update message claims that the Disc Channel will now be able to display a scrolling message notifying you of a required update if a game needs to install one.    

Hopefully this minor update is a sign of bigger things to come!

[Wii Fit gets a release date, and the launch date and initial game lineup of the WiiWare service are unveiled.]

209

TalkBack / WiiWare Release Dates Revealed at GDC

« on: February 20, 2008, 06:11:18 AM »

Wii Fit gets a release date, and the launch date and initial game lineup of the WiiWare service are unveiled.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=15373

 NINTENDO REVEALS ITS NEXT ENGAGING EXPERIENCES    

WiiWare, Wii Fit, Super Smash Bros. Brawl Shown at Game Developers Conference    

REDMOND, Wash., Feb. 20, 2008 – The Game Developers Conference in San Francisco attracts the top creative minds in the video game industry. With that audience on hand, Nintendo announces news that reinforces its commitment to provide entertaining and enriching experiences for veteran and new gamers alike. WiiWare™, Nintendo's new downloadable game service, launches May 12 and expands development opportunities for developers the same way Wii™ expanded the world of video game players. Wii Fit™, the upcoming title for Wii, launches May 19 and introduces the Wii Balance Board™ peripheral. And Super Smash Bros.® Brawl draws in fans of all kinds.    

"We are excited to participate in the Game Developers Conference this year to share with developers and consumers alike our upcoming unique services and products," said Cammie Dunaway, Nintendo of America's executive vice president of Sales & Marketing. "We are hopeful that they will appreciate our offerings of WiiWare, Wii Fit and Super Smash Bros. Brawl, which represent a trio that will continue to attract new players to the world of video games."  At the conference, Nintendo speakers will outline a number of plans for the coming months on their respective panels:    

WiiWare: Nintendo's upcoming WiiWare changes the way both developers create and consumers access video games. Through WiiWare, Nintendo hopes to offer developers a virtual laboratory that serves as a breeding ground for new games, which encourages great ideas that creators always wanted to develop. The combination of low development barriers and unique game experiences found only on Wii should enable developers to try new ideas with lower risk in a quicker, more creative and affordable way.    

Meanwhile Wii owners can download a multitude of cool new games from different genres, including some that are unprecedented, which can be purchased from home at a dynamic price range. WiiWare also empowers consumers to determine with their Wii Points which games have the right stuff to become the next big thing.    

WiiWare will be a repository for all types of experiences – literally, something for everyone. Early WiiWare games will come from celebrated developers like Square Enix, which is creating FINAL FANTASY CRYSTAL CHRONICLES: My Life as a King, a simulation game for all ages. Also watch for games from up-and-coming developers like Frontier with its fresh, enchanting platform adventure LostWinds and a new episodic game series from Telltale. The first U.S. WiiWare games will be available on May 12.    

Wii Fit: Wii Fit demonstrates Nintendo's commitment to gamers of all kinds. It combines fun and fitness for every member of the family to keep active and play together. Wii Fit launches May 19 in the United States and comes with the weight-and-motion-sensing Wii Balance Board that Nintendo representatives demonstrated could hold great promise for future game development as well. Third-party publishers are already working on new games and applications that will make use of the Wii Balance Board. Additionally, Wii Fit includes access to the Wii Fit Channel, an interactive channel that lets users check in each day to track their fitness progress through weight and BMI. In Japan, Wii Fit has sold more than 1.4 million units since its Dec. 1 launch.    

Super Smash Bros. Brawl: This action game launches March 9. With dozens of characters, settings, options and ways to play, it has something for everyone. The game includes characters from all across the Nintendo universe. The previous installment in the franchise went on to become the best-selling game of all time for Nintendo GameCube™.    

Remember that Wii features parental controls that let adults manage the content their children can access. For more information about this and other Wii features, visit Wii.com.

[High School Musical 2: Work This Out! arrives on the DS in April 2008.]

210

TalkBack / New High School Musical Game Coming to DS

« on: January 30, 2008, 12:04:08 PM »

High School Musical 2: Work This Out! arrives on the DS in April 2008.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=15195

 Disney Interactive Studios Invites Fans to “Work This Out” With the Latest Addition to Its Successful “High School Musical” Video Game Franchise Coming This Spring    

Disney Has Shipped 3.8 Million Units of “High School Musical” Themed Video Games Worldwide    

BURBANK, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Disney Interactive Studios announced today that the newest video game in the “High School Musical” franchise – High School Musical: Work This Out! for Nintendo DS™ will be available April 2008. High School Musical: Work This Out! allows fans of the popular Disney Channel movies to dive into the world of the Lava Springs Resort in an all new musical adventure game, featuring storylines extending beyond “High School Musical 2.” For the first time on Nintendo DS, High School Musical: Work This Out! features all 10 songs from the movie, and allows players to take their favorite songs from the film on-the-go by using the Nintendo DS as a music player. This unique feature lets players listen to their favorite “High School Musical 2” songs even while the Nintendo DS is closed.    

High School Musical: Work This Out! follows the extremely successful launch of High School Musical: Sing It!, High School Musical: Makin’ the Cut and High School Musical: Living the Dream this past holiday season. Across all titles and platforms in the franchise, Disney Interactive Studios has shipped 3.8 million copies of the video games worldwide. According to NPD data for the U.S., the “High School Musical” video games achieved Top 20 positions on each published platform for the month of December 2007. High School Musical: Sing It!, a karaoke-themed video game featuring songs from both “High School Musical” films, ranked as the #6 top selling Wii™ home video game system title and #11 selling PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system title. High School Musical: Makin’ the Cut, a rhythm-based music and adventure game, ranked #10 for Nintendo DS. High School Musical: Living the Dream ranked #5 among the GameBoy® Advance titles for the same month.    

“The phenomenon of ‘High School Musical’ goes beyond simply watching the movies,” said Craig Relyea, senior vice president, global marketing, Disney Interactive Studios. “The success of the video game franchise proves that fans want to immerse themselves in the world of ‘High School Musical,’ whether they are singing the songs or embarking on adventures with the cast. This new experience once again underscores Disney’s passion to provide fans with unparalleled entertainment as they wait for ‘High School Musical 3’ to arrive, which will also usher in a new generation of video games this holiday season.”    

High School Musical: Work This Out!, due out in April, is the only musical adventure game allowing fans to immerse themselves in the world of “High School Musical 2.” Fans can play as their favorite High School Musical characters Troy, Gabriella, Sharpay, Ryan, Chad and Taylor to explore the Lava Springs Resort as seen in the movie. Throughout the game, players go on various adventures at the resort, compete in time-based challenges and play different rhythm games, all while listening to the hit songs from “High School Musical 2.”    

High School Musical: Work This Out!, rated E for Everyone, will be available in April 2008 exclusively for Nintendo DS for $29.99.

[For the second straight year, NATAS gives Nintendo an award for engineering creativity.]

211

TalkBack / Nintendo Wins an Emmy

« on: January 08, 2008, 02:08:38 AM »

For the second straight year, NATAS gives Nintendo an award for engineering creativity.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=15068

 Remarkable Wii And Nintendo DS Controls Earn Nintendo A Second Emmy Award    

  Jan. 8, 2008 -- For the second year in a row, the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences has honored Nintendo with an Emmy® Award for excellence in engineering creativity. The groundbreaking Wii™ system was recognized for its innovative motion-sensing controls, which have attracted a broad range of nontraditional gamers and veteran players alike. The award also recognized Nintendo DS™ for its pioneering touch-screen control scheme and distinctive dual-screen display, both of which helped to make it the nation's top-selling game system of 2007.    

Presented in Las Vegas at the annual Technological & Engineering Emmy Awards on Jan. 7, these latest honors set the stage for even more exciting control innovations from Nintendo in 2008. A forthcoming Mario Kart™ racing game for Wii will be packaged with a wireless Wii Wheel™, while the hotly anticipated Wii Fit™ will keep players more active than ever with the extraordinary Wii Balance Board.    

"The pioneering interfaces for Wii and Nintendo DS reflect our long tradition of seeking new ways to enhance the gaming experience for users at every level," said Don James, Nintendo of America's executive vice president of operations. "We're grateful for this award and thank the academy for honoring us a second time."    

Nintendo previously received an Emmy in 2007 for its invention of the plus-shaped D-pad, which radically changed how people interact with their video games and, by extension, their televisions. For more information about Nintendo, please visit www.nintendo.com.

[Build and design your own home, and add it to an online neighborhood. Madness would be proud.]

212

TalkBack / Majesco Announces Our House for Wii

« on: January 08, 2008, 01:03:58 AM »

Build and design your own home, and add it to an online neighborhood.  Madness would be proud.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=15066

 Majesco Entertainment Announces 'Our House,' The First Home Design Game Built From The Ground Up Exclusively For The Wii™ System    

BRISTOL, U.K., January 7, 2008 – If you can dream it, you can build it as Majesco Entertainment Company (NASDAQ: COOL), an innovative provider of video games for the mass market, today announced Our House for the Wii™ home video game system. Developed by Budcat Creations, Our House turns the Wii Remote™ into the ultimate creation tool that lets players design, build and decorate their own personalized trophy home they can share with others in an online neighborhood.    

“Few things are as exciting as building and personalizing a home of your own, and only the innovative Wii Remote makes it possible to hammer every nail and paint every wall," said John Merchant, Marketing Manager, Majesco Europe. “We believe Our House’s combination of unique subject matter, endless creativity and competitive multiplayer fun will resonate with players of all ages."    

Our House is the only game that lets you build and remodel your home as you design a unique customized creation. After shopping for raw materials in the Home Store, players will use their Wii Remote to hammer, saw, paint, tile and much more as they assemble and decorate their family dwelling. But the creativity doesn’t end indoors since a home’s overall neighborhood value is based on landscaping and exterior upgrades too. Four-player “build-offs" encourage social play while Wii Connect 24 lets players share their creations with friends via the literal community-building feature of Neighborhood Mode.

[Tecmo releases a second dose of super-swingin' golf action.]

213

TalkBack / Tecmo Ships Super Swing Golf Season 2 for Wii

« on: December 11, 2007, 01:03:06 PM »

Tecmo releases a second dose of super-swingin' golf action.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=14971

 Tecmo® Announces Super Swing Golf™ Season 2 Now Available    

The Must-Have Party Golf Game for the Holidays Has Shipped    

  TORRANCE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Tecmo® announced that Super Swing Golf™ Season 2, this holiday season’s party golf game for the Wii™, is now available for virtual golfers everywhere. Using the Wii Remote™, Super Swing Golf Season 2 allows players to take actual golf swings on 14 unique 18-hole fantasy golf courses.    

Unique multiplayer “party" mode games like “Darts" and “Longest Drive" are designed to get players together for fun, competitive golf without having to carry around a golf bag. In the single player tour mode, players compete against computer controlled rivals in matches across Pangya Island, where the golfing takes place. Successful play allows for the unlocking of unique costumes and items. Some costumes include those worn by classic Tecmo characters such as “Mighty Bombjack" and “Rachel" of Ninja Gaiden®. Featuring eight playable characters, various selectable caddies, an abundance of collectable costumes and equipment Super Swing Golf Season 2 makes a great holiday gift.    

“The holidays are a great time to be playing Super Swing Golf Season 2," says Yoh Watanabe, Tecmo’s Marketing Manager. “Since families and friends are getting together, playing a game as fun and easy to get into as this one just makes sense."    

Super Swing Golf Season 2 is rated “E10+" (Everyone 10+) by the ESRB for Suggestive Themes and is available now for the Wii for a suggested retail price of $39.99.

[New York Mets shortshop is next spring's cover boy.]

214

TalkBack / Jose Reyes to Grace Cover of MLB 2K8

« on: December 08, 2007, 03:51:43 PM »

New York Mets shortshop is next spring's cover boy.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=14951

 Jose Reyes Named Cover Athlete and Official Spokesman for Major League Baseball® 2K8    

  NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--2K Sports, the sports publishing label of Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. (Nasdaq: TTWO), announced today that New York Mets shortstop Jose Reyes will be the cover athlete and official spokesman for Major League Baseball® 2K8.    

“This year we have signed one of the most exciting players in all of Major League Baseball® as our official cover athlete," said Ben Brinkman, Executive Producer, Major League Baseball® 2K8. “Jose Reyes is a multi-talented player – a great baserunner, fielder and hitter, making him the perfect spokesperson for Major League Baseball® 2K8."    

“This is the first time I have ever been on the cover of a video game and it is very exciting to be a part of the best video game out there," said Jose Reyes.    

Although he is best known for his speed and base-stealing ability, Jose Reyes is also one of the most well-rounded players in the game and is the first player in baseball history to have more than 63 steals, 120 runs, 192 hits, and 19 homers in a single season. Reyes led the Major League in 2006 with 17 triples and 64 stolen bases and set a new Mets club record with 104 hits at Shea Stadium. Also an avid video gamer and long time fan of 2K Sports’ products, All-Star Shortstop Jose Reyes is a natural fit as the official spokesperson for this year’s edition of the critically acclaimed Major League Baseball 2K series.    

Major League Baseball® 2K8 will be available spring 2008 for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, the PLAYSTATION®3 and PlayStation®2 computer entertainment systems, the PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system, and the Wii™ home video game system.

[Dual-screen version to feature exclusive mini-game, playing field.]

215

TalkBack / EA Announces FIFA Street 3 for DS

« on: December 06, 2007, 12:07:48 PM »

Dual-screen version to feature exclusive mini-game, playing field.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=14942

 EA’s FIFA Street 3 Turns Global Soccer Icons Into Action Heroes for the Nintendo DS    

Intuitive, New Touch Skills Control System Uses Stylus to Perform Over-the-Top Moves    

  REDWOOD CITY, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ:ERTS) today announced that FIFA Street 3 is in development for the Nintendo DS™. The newest iteration of the street soccer arcade series will debut on the Nintendo DS with a new look that turns the game’s global soccer icons into stylized action heroes. This game features an intuitive Touch Screen control system using the stylus that enables you to easily perform over-the-top trick moves, passes and shots. FIFA Street 3 is scheduled to ship to stores under the EA SPORTS BIG™ brand on February 15th, 2008 in Europe and February 19th in North America, the same time the game becomes available on the Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system and PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system.    

FIFA Street 3 creates a fast-paced and larger-than-life arcade soccer experience which places the game’s biggest stars in exotic locales around the world. Featuring the world’s best players representing 18 of the top international teams, each player has been rendered into a stylized caricature with heroic qualities.    

With the all new FIFA Street 3 Touch Screen control scheme you can control all aspects of your team’s performance from passing and shooting to more advanced moves like juggling, headers and bicycle kicks .Use the stylus and simple button controls to seamlessly combine moves together between players to execute rewarding combos – providing you with tons of different ways to showcase your street skills. Fill up your Gamebreaker bar and trigger Touch Screen controlled team trick moments to increase your chances of scoring a goal.    

FIFA Street 3 on the Nintendo DS features an exclusive mini-game called Kick Ups that will challenge you to keep the ball in the air and test your ball juggling skills.    

Build your team around your favourite player in Street Challenge Mode, and then take them from Pretender to Legendary status by completing challenges, developing Team Chemistry, improving your Reputation and unlocking balls, kits and a few surprises. Take your team to the urban playgrounds of South America, the rooftops in Asia, the streets of Europe, or a special location in Africa exclusive to the Nintendo DS.    

Take your soccer heroes to the streets and experience the revolution in street soccer. FIFA Street 3 is rated “E" for Everyone and 3+ by PEGI.

[Europeans, get ready to rock.]

216

TalkBack / Boulder Dash Ships for DS in Europe

« on: November 24, 2007, 04:17:57 AM »

Europeans, get ready to rock.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=14856

 Let The Diamond Hunt begin as Boulder Dash®-ROCKS!™ hits the Shelves Today    

  Darmstadt/Geneva, November 22nd 2007 –10TACLE STUDIOS AG, Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ: ERTS); and First Star Software, Inc. today announced the Europe-wide release of “Boulder Dash®-ROCKS!™" for the Nintendo DS™ Jointly developed by 10TACLE STUDIOS MOBILE and co-publisher First Star Software, Inc., the modern remake of this cult classic guarantees both veteran “Boulder Dash®" fans and new-found Rockford™ friends exciting and challenging arcade-puzzle action.    

This tricky puzzle and dexterity game first made its debut in the early 80s and continues to fascinate its large fan base making it a classic in the history of interactive entertainment. Now Boulder Dash® is back with a hot new look to take the Nintendo DS by storm this holiday. A version of the game for the PSP® (PlayStation® Portable) will follow in Spring 2008. The hit game’s principle remains: players have to collect sparkling diamonds whilst avoiding numerous traps and beating opponents to reach them, all the while watching out for falling boulders.    

The game contains four different gaming modes. In addition to the classic single-player mode, which takes players through 80 levels across four different game worlds, Boulder Dash®-ROCKS!™ now offers a new multi-player setting and two additional play modes. For the first time, Boulder Dash®-ROCKS!™ on the Nintendo DS also features ‘Route Race’ – an all new custom designed strategic game feature which allows the player to use the Stylus to first draw a path for Rockford to exit a level though, neither Rockford not any of the in-game elements move until after the player is ready to test the route they have recorded. While this may seem easy at first, the higher the level, the more challenging it becomes for the player to envision the best strategy as he weighs up which enemies to free or which stones to move to reach the exit, while trying to predict and remember how things will shift based on the route drawn.    

  Features:  

 
• 4 amazing worlds: Jungle, Lava, Water and Netherworld. All different in game play and environments  
• All-new graphic design which appeals to the modern player and more casual players alike  
• Fascinating game modes: Planet Tour (Storymode), Time Trial and Double Dash (Multiplayer)  
• Exclusive Nintendo DS mode: Route Race (Brain Teaser mode), is all about strategy and uses the stylus  
• 130 challenging levels guarantee hours of fun and entertainment  
• New opponents, new tools and all new, challenging puzzles  
• Well proven gameplay, known throughout the world since 1984  
• Beautifully produced cinematics and entertaining storyline  

[Becoming a master has never been cheaper.]

217

TalkBack / Fishing Master for Wii Gets Price Drop

« on: November 21, 2007, 03:37:01 AM »

Becoming a master has never been cheaper.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=14847

 FISHING MASTER FOR Wii NOW AVAILABLE FOR $29.99    

New Price Point For Hudson Entertainment's  Fishing Master Makes It The Perfect Holiday Gift!    

  REDWOOD CITY, CA - November 20, 2007 - Hudson Entertainment, the North  American publishing arm for HUDSON SOFT, today announced that Fishing  Master is now available for a new price point of $29.99. Published by  Hudson Entertainment and distributed in North America by Konami  Digital Entertainment, Inc., Fishing Master is available nationwide  exclusively for the Wii home video game system.    

"Fishing Master is the perfect holiday gift this season for any  household owning a Nintendo Wii," said John Greiner, President and CEO  of Hudson Entertainment. "Featuring a low price point, family-friendly  gameplay, and an addictive multiplayer mode, Fishing Master is the  best value out there for families and gamers looking for a fun and  affordable game to add to their Wii library."    

Utilizing the Wii Remote and Nunchuk, Fishing Master brings the most  accessibly smooth fishing gameplay experience to the comfort of your  living room as you bait, cast, hook, and battle a variety of different  fish in the hopes of achieving the ultimate title of 'Fishing Master.'  Fishing Master offers approachable and varied gameplay that will  appeal both to fishing newcomers and old pros. Sporting an enthralling  single-player mode with over 100 different types of fish to catch, and  a four-player multiplayer mode, Fishing Master guarantees countless  hours of Wii style fishing fun for the entire family!

[Finally, a game that speaks to my generation.]

218

TalkBack / Strawberry Shortcake: The Four Seasons Cake Ships for DS

« on: November 15, 2007, 02:55:57 PM »

Finally, a game that speaks to my generation.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=14815

 THE GAME FACTORY SHIPS “STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE™ : THE FOUR SEASONS CAKE" FOR NINTENDO DS    

Long loving girl’s icon to invade the popular Handheld system    

  SANTA MONICA, Calif.—(November 15, 2007)—Today, one of the most successful girl’s franchise comes to the Nintendo DS handheld system as The Game Factory ships Strawberry Shortcake : The Four Seasons Cake. The sweet and spunky little redhead’s character has achieved more than $2 Billion in retail sales since 2003, making it one of the best selling children’s brand to date. Strawberry Shortcake : The Four Seasons Cake, rated E for everyone, was developed by Shin’en and is available now for a suggested retail price of $19.99.    

“Strawberry Shortcake : The Four Seasons Cake brings to the girl’s gaming market yet another new twist on the platform genre", said Game Factory’s Vice President North America Leah Kalboussi. The latest Strawberry Shortcake game has been developed to provide girl gamers the challenging gameplay they have come to expect from their favorite characters and real top notch graphics, we are extremely proud to bring a another great Strawberry Shortcake game out on the DS platform in time for this Thanksgiving."    

“The Four Seasons Cake" is a traditional jump’n’run game, spiced up with lots of funny and challenging elements. Players are invited on a colorful journey throughout Strawberryland where they are able to step into the footsteps of Strawberry Shortcake and all her girlfriends to play a unique adventure that’s all about friendship, fantasy and fun!    

  Game features include:    

 
• Play and interact with Strawberry Shortcake, and her berry special friends Angel Cake, Orange Blossom, Blueberry Muffin and Frosty Puff!    

  
  

• Travel around Strawberryland in spring, summer, fall, and winter to collect the ingredients for the biggest cake of all time!    

  
  

• Collect all the strawberries throughout the game in order to win the baking contest, but replay levels if you didn’t get them first time around.    

  
  

• Explore four sub maps based on different seasons, each represented by unique moods and weather conditions.    

  
  

• Play through a total of 32 fun levels of jump’n’run gameplay with lots of obstacles and collectibles along the way.    

  
  

• Unlock an additional four secret levels.    

  
  

• Complete four tough challenges with the help of Strawberry Shortcake’s girlfriends including flying on a butterfly, river dancing on a floating tire and driving on a snowmobile!    

  
  

• Use your special abilities to avoid tricky enemies!

[DS version to include two events exclusive to the portable edition.]

219

TalkBack / Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games Ships Jan. 22nd

« on: November 15, 2007, 02:45:25 PM »

DS version to include two events exclusive to the portable edition.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=14814

 MARIO & SONIC AT THE OLYMPIC GAMES™ TAKES ON THE DS ON JANUARY 22    

  SAN FRANCISCO & LONDON (November 15, 2007) –SEGA® of America, Inc. and SEGA Europe Ltd. today announced that Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games™ for the Nintendo DS™ will be shipped to stores on January 22, 2008. This exciting game is part of an exclusive partnership between SEGA and  Nintendo and brings one of the most legendary competitions – an epic face-off between Team Mario and Team Sonic – to Nintendo’s immensely successful handheld system. Coming out for the Nintendo DS™ with exclusive new content, Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games was also released on the Wii™ home system on November 6.    

Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games, created specifically to take advantage of all the features the DS has to offer, boasts 16 official Olympic challenges including two new events that are exclusive to the handheld game - 10m Platform Diving and Cycling. Using the unique Touch Screen and stylus, players can interact with the game as they jump, swim, run, shoot, pedal and flip their way through authentic competitions to win Gold medals. The Nintendo DS edition also features eight Dream events – five of which can only be found on the handheld game. Each Dream event takes an  Olympic sport and brings it into a video game-inspired world filled with obstacles, power-ups and familiar opponents from the worlds of Mario & Sonic to challenge even the best players. These exclusive DS Dream events are: Dream Canoe, Dream Boxing, Dream Basketball, Dream Long Jump and Dream Shooting(Skeet).    

Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games presents DS players the chance to play as any one of 16 video game characters – eight from the world of Mario™ and eight from the world of Sonic - each bringing their own talents and athletic capabilities to the competitions. The game is filled with challenges for all kinds of gamers thanks to the three gameplay modes -  the Single Event Mode where players can choose one specific event to play,  the Circuit Mode where players can choose a series of events to compete in, and the Mission Mode where players have the opportunity to fulfill a series of solo challenges that test their athletic capabilities, timing and reflexes. Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games finishes up with the Gallery, where mini-games and Olympic trivia come together to bring more addictive DS fun.    

Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games for the Nintendo DS also offers irresistible multiplayer opportunities by taking full advantage of the DS wireless capabilities that offers both Single-Card and Multi-Card gameplay options. The multiplayer gameplay can be enjoyed in Single Event Mode  - including the Dream events -  as well as in Circuit Mode for up to four players. For gamers looking to see how they do on an international level, DS players can use the Nintendo® Wi-Fi Connection system to upload their scores to the worldwide rankings and check how they rate against players around the world.    

Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games for the Nintendo DS will be shipped to stores across North America on January 22, 2008. The game is also currently in stores for the Wii home system. For more information about the game, please visit the website at www.sega.com/mariosonic.

[Now it's even easier for gamers to make a donation to this great cause.]

220

TalkBack / Child's Play Charity Kicks Off 2007 Campaign

« on: November 15, 2007, 01:51:32 AM »

Now it's even easier for gamers to make a donation to this great cause.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=14811

 Child's Play is a charity organization, founded by Penny Arcade, aimed at mobilizing gamers to help provide games to children in hospitals all over the United States and across the globe.  It recently kicked off its 2007 fund-raising campaign, with a goal of beating its 2006 total of over a million dollars worth of donated toys, books, games, and cash for kids in children's hospitals the world over.  This year the number of participating hospitals has increased to 45, including facilities in such far-flung locales as Egypt, Australia, and New Zealand.    

Gamers can donate in more ways than ever before.  Cash donations are accepted via PayPal and are split evenly amongst all hospitals involved.  Portions of eBay auctions can also be donated, meaning that you can sell almost anything and still make a contribution.    

Each hospital also has its own wish list on Amazon.com, and items purchased from each list are mailed directly to the hospital.  Some toys are given to children as gifts, while others are kept by the hospital for ongoing use (e.g. game consoles).  In order to get these items to children in time for Christmas, hospitals request that they are purchased in time to arrive by December 20th.    

Child's Play is also holding a Charity Dinner Auction in Seattle on December 11th.  The evening will include a silent auction, live auction, and dinner, with all proceeds going to this year's network of hospitals.  Other planned events to support Child's Play include a LAN party in Washington and Rock Band / Guitar Hero parties in Brooklyn and Denver.  More details are available at www.childsplaycharity.org.

[New game features 30 different pet maladies taken from the files of real veterinarians.]

221

TalkBack / Pet Pals: Animal Doctor Announced for DS

« on: November 13, 2007, 02:57:04 PM »

New game features 30 different pet maladies taken from the files of real veterinarians.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=14803

 Majesco Announces 'Pet Pals: Animal Doctor' For The Nintendo DS™    

New Game Incorporates Medical Cases from Real Veterinarians    

  EDISON, N.J., November 12th, 2007 – Majesco Entertainment Company (NASDAQ: COOL), an innovative provider of video games for the mass market, today announced Pet Pals: Animal Doctor for the Nintendo DS™. Developed by Legacy Interactive and Frontline Studios, Pet Pals: Animal Doctor invites players to step into the challenging world of veterinary medicine as they diagnose and treat 30 different medical cases created by real-life veterinarians.    

“Millions of people are pet owners but few have in-depth knowledge of the behind-the-scenes care required to keep our beloved animals healthy," said Gui Karyo, Executive Vice President of Operations, Majesco. “Pet Pals: Animal Doctor is a fun, challenging game that will give DS owners a better understanding of veterinary medicine as they treat animals via realistic Touch Screen procedures."    

In Pet Pals: Animal Doctor, players will learn the techniques required to diagnose and treat 23 different lovable pets, including a Yorkshire terrier, python, turtle, parakeet, rabbit, Siamese cat and hamster. To do so, players must successfully administer more than 40 Touch Screen tests while interacting with stressed patients and concerned pet owners. Thirty different medical cases, from hairballs to infections to broken bones, were created by real veterinarians and lend authenticity to the game play. After treatment, players can feed, clean and play with their patients in the Recovery Room to help improve each animal’s spirits as it heals.    

Pet Pals: Animal Doctor will launch in early 2008 for a suggested retail price of $19.99. For additional information on this game as well as Majesco’s exciting line of products, please visit www.majescoentertainment.com.

[Upcoming "pinball simulation" features four-player multiplayer and balls made from six different materials.]

222

TalkBack / Dream Pinball Announced for Wii, DS

« on: November 13, 2007, 02:50:35 PM »

Upcoming "pinball simulation" features four-player multiplayer and balls made from six different materials.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=14802

 SouthPeak's Dreams Come True    

Dream Pinball Coming In Q1 2008    

  Tuesday 13th November/...SouthPeak Games has announced the first details of Dream Pinball, another title bolstering its rapidly growing 2008 line-up. Dream Pinball will be a cutting-edge pinball simulation for PC, Wii™ and Nintendo DS™ making the best use of available technologies to elevate pinball simulations to the next level.    

Featuring six distinctive tables, Dream Pinball draws on the latest hardware features to provide visuals that easily surpass previous pinball titles. HDR lighting, motion blur and advanced particle systems generate a remarkable graphical sheen, with selectable cameras providing one fixed and six dynamic action-tracking camera angles. The tables themselves feature a wide range of designs and themes, each one complete with multiple areas, secrets, an array of special effects and spectacular three-way multiball.    

Dream Pinball also excels in the gameplay stakes, with real-world physics determining the game’s ball dynamics. In a unique spin, balls can be made from six different materials including marble, oak, ivory and gold - each with their own distinct ballistic properties. With a multiplayer mode allowing up to four players to compete for points and versatile scalability options for owners with more modest PC hardware, Dream Pinball is set to become the definitive pinball simulation when released for PC, Wii and Nintendo DS in February 2008.    

Melanie Mroz, executive vice president, SouthPeak Games said “Dream Pinball is a brilliant translation of the ever-popular pastime. Anyone can pick up pinball and when it looks and plays this great, there’s no reason not to."    

Dream Pinball will be released for PC, Wii and Nintendo DS in February 2008.

[The Brits will get their hands on Galaxies on January 18th.]

223

TalkBack / Geometry Wars: Galaxies Hitting UK in January

« on: November 13, 2007, 02:45:32 PM »

The Brits will get their hands on Galaxies on January 18th.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=14801

 Geometry Wars: Galaxies Due To Hit UK Stores For Nintendo Wii And DS On Jan 18th 2008    

Galaxies to Include a Multitude of New Levels, Enemies and Weapons to Make it the Largest Geometry Wars Universe of All Time    

  READING, England (13th, November, 2007) – Sierra Entertainment, a division of Vivendi Games announced today that Geometry Wars: Galaxies will be available nationwide on January 18th for the Nintendo Wii and Nintendo DS.    

The Geometry Wars: Galaxies videogame for both the Nintendo Wii and DS accelerates to warp speed with masses of enemies, more than 60 planets, bigger power-ups and a brand new Battle Drone to help players tear through the campaign mode. Also, for the first time ever, Geometry Wars will let players battle across a variety of planets in multiplayer mode.    

Those that own both the Nintendo Wii and DS titles can link the games together using Wi-Fi to unlock bonus levels to both. Additionally, Geometry Wars: Galaxies is one of the first Nintendo Wii videogames to offer the ability to link the Nintendo Wii system via GameShare with the DS system to download a full, free version of Geometry Wars: Retro Evolved.    

“We are excited to provide in Geometry Wars: Galaxies more than 60 times the amount of content than Geometry Wars: Retro Evolved, with new levels, controls, weapons and enemies," said Al Simone, senior vice president, global marketing for Sierra Entertainment.    

For more information, please visit the game’s official Website at www.geometrywarsgalaxies.com.

[Get scared with a Wii remote and nunchuk.]

224

TalkBack / Alone In The Dark Coming to Wii

« on: November 13, 2007, 02:34:24 PM »

Get scared with a Wii remote and nunchuk.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=14798

 Heart-Stopping Action Of 'Alone In The Dark' Comes To Wii And PlayStation 2    

Atari's Apocalyptic Action Blockbuster Coming to Five Platforms, Gameplay Uniquely Adapted to Wii Control System    

LYON, FRANCE – 13 November 2007 – Atari today announced that its forthcoming apocalyptic action blockbuster Alone in the Dark will launch for Wii and Playstation®2 in addition to Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, PlayStation®3, and Windows. Alone in the Dark will continue the legacy of innovation started by the first Alone in the Dark game with state-of-the-art technology driving a captivating and entertaining original gameplay experience.    

Developed by Hydravision, Alone in the Dark for Wii and PS2 follows the same story as the PS3, Xbox 360 and PC version, where over the course of one apocalyptic night, hero Edward Carnby must uncover the earth-shattering secret hidden in New York’s iconic Central Park.    

Hydravision has tackled the innovative and highly advanced technology driving Alone in the Dark on Xbox 360, PS3 and PC head-on, using the company’s wealth of experience and proven technology. The versions for Wii and PS2 have been developed in parallel specifically to take full advantage of each console’s capabilities. Both games push the hardware hard, incorporating many of the gameplay features found in the Xbox 360 version. On the Wii, the control system is specially adapted to make full use of the Remote and Nunchuck to manipulate objects in real-time, a key gameplay feature of Alone in the Dark, enhancing the player’s immersion in the experience.    

“Realising the enormous ambition of Alone in the Dark is a huge technological challenge, which becomes even more demanding on Wii and PlayStation 2," said Mathias Hautefort, Executive Vice President of publishing and production, Atari. “However, we’re certain players will be impressed with what Hydravision have achieved on the two consoles, not least with the Wii game which is perfectly adapted to the gameplay thanks to the console’s unique controllers."    

Designed in the spirit of blockbuster entertainment and inspired by the gripping style of contemporary TV dramas, Alone in the Dark delivers a new level of narrative intensity, packed with action, plot twists and nail-biting cliff-hangers. With a story written by Eden Games and scripted by New York Times best-selling writer Lorenzo Carcaterra, Alone in the Dark sees one of video gaming’s original innovators return to deliver an outstanding action gaming experience.

[Man, these zombies never die.]

225

TalkBack / Resident Evil: The Umbrella Chronicles Ships for Wii

« on: November 13, 2007, 02:24:17 PM »

Man, these zombies never die.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=14797

 CAPCOM'S RESIDENT EVIL®: THE UMBRELLA CHRONICLES FOR THE WII™ HOME GAME SYSTEM FROM NINTENDO LURCHES INTO RETAIL    

Motion Controls Enhance the Terror in New Resident Evil® Game    

SAN MATEO, CA — November 13, 2007 — Capcom®, a leading worldwide developer and publisher of video games, today announced that Resident Evil®: The Umbrella Chronicles for the Wii™ home video game system from Nintendo is now available. Resident Evil® is the highest selling Capcom series with more than 30 million games sold worldwide. Rated M for Mature by the Entertainment Software Ratings Board (ESRB), Resident Evil: The Umbrella Chronicles carries a suggested retail price of $49.95.    

Resident Evil: The Umbrella Chronicles is a brand new game in the Resident Evil franchise, with familiar locales from the entire series, created specifically for the unique characteristics of the Wii console. This action/shooter hybrid reveals the back story behind the fall of the Umbrella Corporation by exploring locations from Resident Evil 0, 1, 2 and 3 as well as new never-before-seen locations, such as Umbrella’s stronghold. Resident Evil: The Umbrella Chronicles combines first-person, light-gun style combat with interactive pathways, multiple weapons and new enemies to create an entirely new Resident Evil experience that could only be delivered on the Wii. The game includes a two-player co-op mode and support for the Wii Zapper™ for even more intense light-gun style shooting action.    

Resident Evil: The Umbrella Chronicles Features:    

• The overriding story of Wesker’s return and the unveiling of new details about Umbrella link together the chapters as players revisit classic scenarios from previous Resident Evil games.
 • Return to classic locations such as the mansion from the original and RE 0, and elements of Raccoon City from RE 3 that lead players to a brand new chapter set in Russia.
 • Chris, Jill, Rebecca, Billy and Carlos are all available as playable characters. Other key characters from the Resident Evil series, including Albert Wesker make appearances during the course of the game.
 • Using the Wii Remote™ as a gun, players can experience breathtaking combat against a horde of zombies and various creatures in dynamic first-person perspective.
 • Support for Wii Zapper™ provides an even more satisfying, immersive experience.
 • Single player or two-player co-op
 • 480p and 16:9 Widescreen support  
• Switch between pistol, rifle, shotgun, machine gun, knife and grenades to defeat enemies
• Replay the game to achieve higher rankings and access to upgarded weapons. Master the game and achieve an Excellent Ranking to obtain a secret item.
 • Destroy items to find hidden pick-ups providing key information that reveal vital details about Umbrella  
• Certain weapons can destroy environments and items. Shoot objects and watch them splinter, explode and disintegrate. Hidden items may sometimes be found after destroying objects.