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[SN to match up Japanese developers with Western publishers to increase audience.]

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TalkBack / SN Systems Plays Match-Maker

« on: April 06, 2005, 10:16:26 AM »

SN to match up Japanese developers with Western publishers to increase audience.

SN Systems Japanese studio to offer unique service for developers and publishers

6th April 2005 . Bristol , UK . SN Systems, the leading independent producer of software development tools for the video games industry, today announced a unique service being offered by it's Japanese office – the Match-Making of Japanese developers with western publishers.

The Match-Making service is a reflection of the how much the Japanese video game market has changed in recent years. Japan has traditionally been a very insular market for both cultural and economic reasons – historically the majority of Japanese game developers sell few games outside of Japan and western publishers have sold few western-developed games into Japan. Until recently sales of Japanese developed games within Japan were more than enough to sustain good businesses, however, sales have decreased whereas the Japanese consumer's appetite for all things western has increased.

In the past there have been very few independent game developers as the majority of all games have been created in-house by publishers who have specialised in creating titles specifically for Japan. But in the past couple of years some key Japanese development teams have set up their own studios and are keen to work with western publishers to sell more of their games to western consumers. Conversely, western publishers are keen to break into the Japanese games market are and more likely to succeed by using local talent for complete or partial development of their games.

Tomo Ohno, VP of Business Development at SN Systems UK, CEO of SN Systems Japan commented 'We have recently noticed a big change in Japanese game development – the developers here want to work with western publishers and western publishers want to work with Japanese developers. This was almost unheard of until a few years ago. The development scene is Japan is becoming more like that of the west with developers offering to develop complete games or work on a specific part of a game e.g. Animation, FMV, storyboarding." He continued, "SN are in an ideal position to know what teams are available and what levels of expertise they have. The service we are offering is unique and believe that by making introductions we will see some truly innovative and creative games made for east and west."

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TalkBack / RE: BLAH BLAH BLAH: GameCube 64

« on: April 05, 2005, 01:05:05 PM »

My outlook on Nintendo is the following: They're getting better. There's no doubting that. However, they really need to pick up the pace and get a lot better a lot faster if they want to claw their way back to the throne. Anything's possible and someone who tells you that any gaming company can NEVER do something is lying. Anything can happen. Maybe one day the R&D Team at Nintendo will come up with something truly brilliant that shuts out the competition indefinitely. Will this happen. Oh, it's so unlikely that I'd sooner win the lottery, get struck by lightning, and have alien children, but that doesn't mean it's impossible. Despite the fact that Nintendo may not be on top and, at the moment, doesn't have a great outlook compared to Microsoft or Sony, it makes this fan's heart warm knowing that they ARE improving. Maybe not at the rate we'd like them to, but any improvement is better than none.

[Got Pac-Man Fever? Play a little pinball.]

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TalkBack / Pac-Man Pinball Advance Goes Gold

« on: March 31, 2005, 03:39:29 PM »

Got Pac-Man Fever? Play a little pinball.

Pac-Man is back in an Exciting Pinball Adventure Only for Game Boy(R) Advance

 SANTA CLARA, CA – March 31, 2005 – Namco Hometek Inc., a leading video games developer and publisher, today announced that Pac-Man fever is back as "Pac-Man Pinball Advance" has gone gold and is expected to be available at North American retail stores in April 2005. "Pac-Man Pinball Advance" mixes fast-paced pinball action with the classic Pac-Man universe complete with Inky, Blinky, Pinky and Clyde, as well as other familiar characters from Pac-Land. "Pac-Man Pinball Advance" is available exclusively on Game Boy Advance.          “'Pac-Man Pinball Advance' is exactly what the doctor ordered for Pac-Man fans, pinball fanatics and anyone who has ever caught Pac-Man fever,” said Jeff Lujan, Business Director at Namco Hometek Inc. “With exciting, addictive game play and intuitive controls, game play, 'Pac-Man Pinball Advance' promises pure pinball satisfaction.”         "Pac-Man Pinball Advance" features 16 entertaining levels across two unique pinball tables as you chomp Pac-Dots, Power Pellets, and rescue the residents of Pac-Land. Use the Pac-Finder, the ultimate Pac-Machine to guide you through the Pac-Village and Haunted Boardwalk as you rescue your friends from dastardly ghosts. "Pac-Man Pinball Advance" also features:

* Multi-ball play with the aid of Ms. Pac-Man for frenetic gameplay sessions
* Multiple exciting mini-games; gobble Ghosts, roll through obstacles, earn bonus Pac-Dots and points!
* 2D scrolling top view graphics
* Alternate versions of both tables are included
* Endless replayability

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NWR Forums Discord / RE: Gamecubeboy2005 appreciation thread

« on: March 31, 2005, 12:57:34 PM »

Ty, you're a mean, mean boy.

Here's another one, though:


i dont care about ps2 i think gamecube would out rank them anyday. ps2 breaks in about 2 years cause their queeer fans that stop so easily. and there slidey disk trays that get jammed all the time. i like the old stlye openning in the gamecube better that a slidey disk tray. and ps2 dont have many hookups. like gamecube got the gameboy ad sp, lcd screens,broadband, and other things. one more thing that sux is ps2 has two controllers input. gamecube gots 4 players inputs.

[If they're anything less than beaming, Midway's got the cure, as they're publishing game incarnations of the upcoming movie.]

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TalkBack / How Happy Are Your Feet?

« on: March 30, 2005, 11:27:19 AM »

If they're anything less than beaming, Midway's got the cure, as they're publishing game incarnations of the upcoming movie.

WARNER BROS. INTERACTIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND MIDWAY ANNOUNCE MULTI-TERRITORY PUBLISHING DEAL FOR HAPPY FEET

Video Game Based on Upcoming Warner Bros. Pictures and Village Roadshow Pictures Film Scheduled to Launch in 2006

CHICAGO – March 30, 2005   – Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment and Midway Games Inc., a leading interactive entertainment software publisher and developer, announced today the signing of a multi-territory publishing agreement to develop video games based on Happy Feet, a comedy adventure written and directed by George Miller (the Babe movies, Lorenzo's Oil, the Mad Max trilogy), scheduled for release in November 2006. The multi-platform deal includes games for console, handheld and PC platforms.

"We're very excited to bring consumers top quality interactive games to accompany the release of Happy Feet," said David F. Zucker, Midway president and chief executive officer. "This phenomenal license will attract younger gamers and serve as one of the anchors in our new line of family friendly games."

"Creating a quality game for Happy Feet will allow fans to extend their cinematic experience into the interactive space," said Jason Hall, Senior Vice President of Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment.  "Expanding the film's creative story within the game will bring Happy Feet to life in a whole new way and create a great connection with young players."

Under the agreement, Midway's development teams will work in close conjunction with the Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment production staff to create compelling, fun and visually appealing interactive games that embody the spirit and humor of the upcoming feature film.

Happy Feet is a comedy adventure set in the land of the Emperor Penguins in the heart of Antarctica.  These penguins sing, and each needs their own special song to attract a soul mate. Our hero Mumble (ELIJAH WOOD), son of Elvis (HUGH JACKMAN) and Norma Jean (NICOLE KIDMAN) is the worst singer in the world... but he can tap-dance something fierce!

The all-star ensemble cast also includes the voices of (in alphabetical order) Brittany Murphy, Hugo Weaving, Robin Williams and features the dancing of legendary tapper Savion Glover (Bring in Da Noise, Bring in Da Funk).    

Warner Bros. Pictures presents, in association with Village Roadshow Pictures, a Kennedy-Miller Film, HAPPY FEET, directed by George Miller.  Written by George Miller, John Collee (Master & Commander), Judy Morris and Warren Coleman. Produced by Doug Mitchell, Bill Miller and George Miller. Executive Produced by Graham Burke and Bruce Berman.  Music composed by John Powell (Shrek, Chicken Run, The Bourne Identity).

HAPPY FEET is scheduled to be released in November 2006 by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company, and in select territories by Village Roadshow Pictures.

[A new combat racing game from the folks at Ubisoft is headed to the GameCube.]

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TalkBack / Ubisoft Announces 187 Ride or Die

« on: March 30, 2005, 11:23:14 AM »

A new combat racing game from the folks at Ubisoft is headed to the GameCube.

Ubisoft Erupts with 187 Ride or Die; New Combat-Racing Game Hits Consoles and PC

SAN FRANCISCO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--March 29, 2005--Ubisoft, one of the world's largest video game publishers, today announces 187 Ride or Die(TM), an urban-themed combat racing game that plunges players into a brutal street-racing gang war where victory depends on ruthless driving and deadly shooting skills. 187 Ride or Die will ship for the current home consoles and PC by the end of this summer.

187 Ride or Die features the voices and likenesses of rising young actors including Larenz Tate (Menace II Society, Ray), Noel Gugliemi (Training Day, The Fast and the Furious), and Guerilla Black. 187 Ride or Die tells the story of a reluctant urban hero named Buck (L. Tate), a young man living a thug's life seething with money, fast cars and beautiful women -- with danger lurking around every corner. Set in the underworld of Los Angeles, Buck must defend the territory of his mentor Dupree (G. Black) from a menacing nemesis and his gang of bandit roughriders, led by Cortez (N. Gugliemi), who are determined to take control of the streets.

"Ubisoft is bringing something unique to the racing genre, which accounts for nearly 20% of the console market," said Tony Kee, Ubisoft's VP of Marketing. "With an engaging storyline, an addictive blend of street racing and combat, and an impressive soundtrack, 187 Ride or Die has the kind of edge that will appeal to racing and hip-hop enthusiasts alike."

Key Features:

Adrenaline-Pumping Combat-Racing Action: Put your pedal to the metal as you literally blow your opponent away in non-stop, intense and unique combat-racing action intensified with replay and slow-motion camera effects, and spectacular blur and filter effects.

Pimpin' Rides: Select from a number of unique vehicles ranging from vintage roadsters to modern muscle cars in your quest to rule the streets.

Strapped to the Nines: Put your hand on the pump and take out the opposition with numerous weapons, including an array of pistols, shotguns, and much more.

Endless Replay Value: Several different game modes including single player Death Race, Cop Chase and Assassination. Or battle with your friends on PlayStation(R) 2 online, Xbox(R) Live(TM) and PC online.

Loaded Cast and Production: Features the voices and likenesses of rising young stars such as Larenz Tate (Menace II Society), Noel G (Training Day) and Guerilla Black. Developed by a talented production team that includes Director Ali Kojori (who also collaborated on Def Jam Vendetta, NBA Street, Fight Night, Need for Speed) alongside Creative Director Matty Rich (Straight Out of Brooklyn, The Inkwell).

Exclusive Music Soundtrack: Banging hip-hop soundtrack produced exclusively for 187 Ride or Die.  

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TalkBack / RE: DS Revelations in Nintendo Power

« on: March 25, 2005, 09:25:14 AM »

On the whole Mario Kart situation, my guess is that they want to make sure the online content is dynamite before releasing any information. Because it's THE online killer app, they can't half-ass it. Mario Kart Online could possibly be part of their E3 presentation.  

[The Hulk developer, Radical Entertainment, has been acquired by VU Games.]

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TalkBack / Vivendi Universal Buys Radical Entertainment

« on: March 23, 2005, 06:18:09 AM »

The Hulk developer, Radical Entertainment, has been acquired by VU Games.

Vivendi Universal Announces VU Games' Acquisition Of Radical Entertainment

PARIS and LOS ANGELES – March 23, 2005 – Vivendi Universal (Paris Bourse: EX FP, NYSE: V) today announced that VU Games has completed the purchase of leading independent console developer, Radical Entertainment. Under the agreement, VU Games will retain Radical's team of more than 200 development professionals, as well as acquire the studio's exclusive game development technologies. Radical's founder Ian Wilkinson has been named President, Radical Entertainment, and the studio will remain in Vancouver, Canada. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

"The purchase of Radical Entertainment reinforces our commitment to strengthening VU Games' creative talent and internal console development capabilities," said Bruce Hack, CEO of VU Games. "Radical's focus will remain on entertainment-based console games for current and next generation platforms."

Radical is best known for developing critically acclaimed and commercially successful releases such as: The Simpsons: Hit & Run, which sold more than 3.5 million retail units worldwide; The Hulk, which sold more than 2 million retail units worldwide; and The Simpsons Road Rage, which sold 3 million retail units worldwide. Currently, the studio is developing several multi-platform titles for VU Games launching in 2005, including Scarface, Crash Tag Team Racing and The Incredible Hulk: Ultimate Destruction.

"We've had tremendous success working with VU Games over the past few years, and we believe our integration will be extremely positive for the future of Radical," said Ian Wilkinson, President, Radical Entertainment. "VU Games recognizes and values our unique and creative work environment, as well as our commitment to developing top-selling entertainment products. We are excited to be part of VU Games' global development team."

[The NBA has entered into non-exclusive agreements to have games published by EA, Take-Two, SCEA, Midway, and Atari.]

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TalkBack / The War for the NBA is Over

« on: March 22, 2005, 07:05:55 AM »

The NBA has entered into non-exclusive agreements to have games published by EA, Take-Two, SCEA, Midway, and Atari.

New Non-Exclusive Deals Provide Diverse Offering of NBA Video Games for Fans, Inspires Creativity with Licensees and Expands NBA's Global Reach

NEW YORK, March 22, 2005 - The National Basketball Association today announced new non-exclusive licensing agreements with Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ: ERTS), Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. (NASDAQ: TTWO), Sony Computer Entertainment America, Midway Games Inc. (NYSE: MWY) and Atari (NASDAQ: ATAR) to continue to develop, publish and distribute NBA video games.

The new multiyear agreements, which begin in October 2005, provide fans with the most comprehensive and diverse video game offering in sports, with titles from multiple publishers. NBA video games will be available to fans in more than 100 countries and on more platforms than ever before, maximizing the reach of NBA video games around the world.

"This is a great day for NBA gamers," said Adam Silver, NBA Entertainment President and Chief Operating Officer. "By partnering with the top developers of sports video games, our fans will be assured a broad and competitive selection of innovative products."

EA, Take-Two, Sony Computer Entertainment America and Midway will each have the rights to use NBA teams and current and retired NBA players in their NBA video game titles. The NBA will also work closely with each licensee to heavily promote the basketball video games with marketing and global branding through the league's various assets including NBA TV and NBA.com.

[Writer / Director John Milius scheduled to write the storyline for Medal of Honor: European Assault.]

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TalkBack / EA Picks Up Acclaimed Writer

« on: March 22, 2005, 06:59:37 AM »

Writer / Director John Milius scheduled to write the storyline for Medal of Honor: European Assault.

Hollywood  Maverick Makes EA's Day; Acclaimed Writer/Director John Milius Brings Signature Style to Newest Medal of Honor Videogame

LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--March 22, 2005--Electronic Arts (NASDAQ:ERTS) today revealed that acclaimed Hollywood writer/director John Milius to be the screenwriting talent behind the WWII storyline of Medal of Honor European Assault(TM), the latest from the widely successful Medal of Honor(TM) franchise.

A graduate of the prestigious USC film school, Milius shared an Academy Award(R) nomination with Francis Ford Coppola for the screenplay of Apocalypse Now (1979) and is perhaps best known for writing and directing fast-paced action films such as Dillinger (1973), Conan the Barbarian (1982), and Red Dawn (1984). Film fans may also recognize his signature style within the many memorable lines and scenes he's crafted including "Go ahead, make my day" for Dirty Harry (1971) and the U.S.S. Indianapolis scene in Jaws (1975). He is a personal friend of the Coen brothers and was the inspiration for the character of Walter in The Big Lebowski (1998).

Executive Producer Dan Winters believes John Milius -- a military history buff -- was the obvious choice, "The Medal of Honor franchise stakes its reputation on epic, cinematic action, and so does John Milius. It's a natural fit!"

Milius jumped on the opportunity. "Video games provide a great medium for storytellers like me, and the authentic WWII subject matter of the Medal of Honor franchise is a great premise for a storyteller," explained Milius. "As someone who has long been considered a creative cowboy, I really enjoyed collaborating with the dynamic creative talent of EALA's development team on the intense action-filled story of Medal of Honor European Assault. It took me back to when I had first started in the entertainment industry, back to my days as a USC film student, and sharing ideas with visionary thinkers like Steven Spielberg and George Lucas."

In Medal of Honor European Assault gamers will play as US Army Lieutenant William Holt, hand-picked by William "Wild Bill" Donovan to be the first field agent of the newly formed Office of Strategic Services -- the OSS. As Lieutenant Holt, your classified missions take place in WWII Europe and are of critical importance to the Allies. You will be tasked with gathering intelligence regarding the development and deployment of the deadly Nazi Tiger Tank and more significantly, stopping the Nazi plan to develop and harness atomic energy. In the pursuit of this goal you are thrust into action in all the pivotal battles of WWII Europe, including St. Nazaire, North Africa, Stalingrad, and the Battle of the Bulge.

Scheduled to ship this summer, Medal of Honor European Assault will be available on the Sony PlayStation(R)2 console, the Xbox(R) video game system from Microsoft, and Nintendo GameCube(TM) under the EA GAMES(TM) brand. This game has not yet been rated by the ESRB.

[After 25 years of eating dots, Pac-Man is still kicking with the third iteration of his 3-D franchise.]

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TalkBack / Pac-Man World 3 Announced

« on: March 22, 2005, 06:53:52 AM »

After 25 years of eating dots, Pac-Man is still kicking with the third iteration of his 3-D franchise.

Namco Celebrates Pac-Man's 25th Anniversary With Pac-Man World TM  3

 Newest Addition To The Family Of Games Featuring The Adored Character Slated To Hit Store Shelves This Fall

SANTA CLARA, Calif., (March 21, 2005) – Leading video games developer and publisher Namco Hometek Inc. announced today that it is celebrating Pac-Man's 25th birthday with the release of Pac-Man World 3 this fall. The latest iteration of the classic series will be available for the PlayStation ® 2 computer entertainment system, Microsoft Xbox ® , Nintendo GameCube TM , PSP TM handheld entertainment system, and PC.

The world was first introduced to Toru Iwatani's yellow dot muncher in 1980. Shaped like a pizza missing a slice and making a wocka wocka wocka sound, Pac-Man exploded onto the video game scene and never looked back. 25 years later, Pac-Man has starred in dozens of games and has been the inspiration for more than 400 different products from cereal to watches to air fresheners and even a cartoon.

"Pac-Man helped launch video games into the mainstream, and as he turns 25 this year, we are happy to see that he continues to have an enduring appeal," said Garry Cole, Executive Vice President of Namco Hometek Inc. "We're delighted that today's generation is still able to experience the magic of Pac-Man with Pac-Man World 3."

"Like all of us, Pac-Man has evolved over the years, changing with the times," said Toru Iwatani, creator of Pac-Man. "People love Pac-Man because he's simple and cute and most important FUN."

In a mad search for power, evil genius Erwin creates a machine that can penetrate into the world of the Ghosts...the Spectral Realm! But now the Spectral Realm is collapsing into the real world, and this will bring about a massive catastrophe that will plunge the world into a state of devistation for years to come!

After mysteriously having been transported out of Pac-Village and into this strange and different land, it is up to Pac-Man to uncover Erwin's plot and save the world. Along the way, Pac-Man will meet a host of unexpected "old friends," and in order to defeat the ultimate enemy, he might just have to turn his old foes into allies!

While combining contemporary platform game mechanics with traditional Pac-Man play principles, Pac-Man World 3 features Pac-Man staples including Power Pellets, Pac-Dots, Pac-Chains and fruit while adding new elements such as a Pactrometer, power-up smoothies and several new special moves. Players will even get to play as Pinky and Clyde, who each have distinctive special abilities.

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TalkBack / RE:The Darkness Comes to Next-Gen Consoles

« on: March 21, 2005, 04:50:37 AM »

Aw, sorry guys. . But hey, at least you get to enjoy a fresh and exciting licensed game! Ok, maybe that didn't help...

[Majesco and Starbreeze to release the game adaptation of the popular comic.]

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TalkBack / The Darkness Comes to Next-Gen Consoles

« on: March 21, 2005, 04:09:44 AM »

Majesco and Starbreeze to release the game adaptation of the popular comic.

Majesco and Starbreeze Confirm ''the Darkness'' Video Game on Next Generation Consoles; Gritty Supernatural Crime Drama Spearheads Growing Company's Next-Gen Lineup

EDISON, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--March 21, 2005--Majesco (NASDAQ: MJES), a provider of diversified offerings and content for digital entertainment platforms, today announced it will publish the video game adaptation of the popular comic book series, The Darkness, for the next generation of consoles. Scheduled for release in 2006, The Darkness is being developed by Starbreeze, the acclaimed development studio behind the top-selling video game, The Chronicles of Riddick: Escape from Butcher Bay.

Based on the best-selling Top Cow comic book, The Darkness casts players as Jackie Estacado, a fearless Mafia hitman for the Franchetti crime family who is suddenly possessed by the terrifying and spectacular powers of The Darkness. Throughout the game, players must learn to control and harness The Darkness power in order to overthrow the vicious mob boss and fulfill their destiny.

"We are excited to have secured Starbreeze, a highly talented and respected team, to develop one of our first titles for the next generation of video game consoles," said Jesse Sutton, president of Majesco. "Combining the top-tier development talent and technology of Starbreeze with the compelling content of Top Cow's The Darkness comic book series provides a solid foundation for success."

The Darkness features a seamless and unique blend of modern crime drama and supernatural horror through first and third-person, non-linear gameplay. Utilizing the Starbreeze engine for next generation consoles, The Darkness features single and online multi-player action across highly realistic environments.

Union Entertainment, a feature film and video game production company, packaged the deal which includes Paul Jenkins, a seminal writer in The Darkness comic book series, who will provide game story and dialogue.

The Darkness comic book series launched in 1996 and is currently published in 19 different languages around the world. The highly popular comic sells more than 500,000 copies of each issue and generates more than $25 million annually across its various brand extensions. "The Darkness" live action film, produced by Platinum Studios and Dimension Films, is estimated for release in 2007.

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TalkBack / RE: BONNIE RUBERG: What a Girl Wants

« on: March 20, 2005, 06:36:24 AM »

I always enjoy reading your editorials on this subject, Bonnie. It's great to see gaming from the perspective of a woman. Keep it up .

[The release of the Nintendo DS in Europe has become the most successful hardware launch in UK history!]

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TalkBack / Touching Is REALLY Good

« on: March 17, 2005, 07:18:32 AM »

The release of the Nintendo DS in Europe has become the most successful hardware launch in UK history!

Nintendo's new hand-held smashes all previous records to become biggest ever UK  hardware launch

17 March 2005 - Nintendo DS, launched in the UK on Friday 11th March 2005, has achieved record breaking sales of nearly 87,000 units in its first two days alone.

Nintendo DS software also proved a hit with gamers across the UK with Super Mario 64 DS, Wario Ware: Touched! and Rayman DS (Ubisoft) the UK's top three selling titles respectively.

The success in the UK follows in the wake of exceptional sales in the US and Japan where over 3 million Nintendo DS units have been sold worldwide since launch.

David Yarnton, General Manager, Nintendo UK said:
'The launch of Nintendo DS in the UK has been an unprecedented success; breaking all expected sales figures and even exceeding our expectations. Nintendo fans, new and old, have embraced the Nintendo DS and have left no doubt that it is the new must have handheld console! Nintendo set out to create a new way of hand-held gaming, offering an innovative and enjoyable experience and with the new Nintendo DS, and we have certainly accomplished this.'

James Honeywell, UK Product Manager for Handheld Consoles said:,
"We are overwhelmed by the success the Nintendo DS has achieved in the UK so far and will continue to watch with excitement as it fulfils its obviously huge potential. It is great to see that British gamers, like their Japanese and American counterparts, can recognise a revolutionary new console when they see it!"

Simon Soffe, Head of PR & Communications at GAME, said:
"We're delighted with sales over the first weekend. We had some superb exclusive software offers for customers who shopped at midnight, and excellent bundle deals for all customers in the days after. Nintendo have done a great job with the launch - creating a lot of excitement and demand among consumers. As always midnight launches were very popular with GAME customers, they want to be the first to play new games and consoles, and we pull out all the stops to help and serve them."

Martyn Gibbs, Commercial Director, Gamestation, said:
"Demand for Nintendo DS has been unprecedented and many of our stores sold out over the launch weekend. Gamestation opened over 220 stores across the UK to satisfy gamers who couldn't wait to get their hands on the DS first."

Neil Martin, Head of Games, HMV, said:
"Demand for the DS in HMV's stores has been phenomenal and once again Nintendo have demonstrated that a truly innovative product and an understanding of what the games consumer wants will translate into a great day one sales success."

The Nintendo DS launched in the UK on Friday 11th March supported by a huge range of first and third party launch titles including Super Mario 64 DS, Wario Ware Touched, Polarium, Pokémon Dash, The Urbz: Sims in the City, Tiger Woods PGA Tour Golf, Project Rub and Zoo Keeper among many others.

In recognition of its technological achievements, the Nintendo DS has received the Edge magazine 'Hardware of the Year Award', as well as rave reviews across the UK, showing that the Nintendo DS has already delivered on its ambitious promise to bring a new gaming experience to gamers.

The Nintendo DS can be purchased from most good retailers for around £99. Software is available from around £29 and £19 depending on the game.

[We may see AND 1's famous Mix Tape property coming to consoles very soon.]

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TalkBack / Ubisoft Partners With AND 1

« on: March 16, 2005, 09:46:54 AM »

We may see AND 1's famous Mix Tape property coming to consoles very soon.

UBISOFT TEAMS UP WITH AND 1 TO BRING GAMERS THEIR OWN MIX TAPE TOUR

Adds Second Sports License to its Roster

SAN FRANCISCO - March 16, 2005 - Today, Ubisoft, one of the world's largest videogame publishers, announced that it has signed an exclusive licensing agreement to make videogames with AND 1, the performance basketball footwear and apparel company best known for its Mix Tape Tour property and its more than 100 endorsers in the NBA. Ubisoft's agreement with AND 1 is the second sports license deal inked since the announcement of the company's entrance into the sports videogame market. Ubisoft recently announced an exclusive licensing deal with one of the world's premier golfers, Vijay Singh.

Every summer AND 1 hosts the AND 1 Mix Tape Tour, which raises the bar for the brashest and most innovative playground moves ever invented. This summer-long roadshow pits the best players each city has to offer against the AND 1 playground legends such as The Professor, Spyda, Half Man-Half Amazing, AO, Sik wit It, Main Event and others. Held in more than 50 cities around the world each year, the AND 1 streetball events are featured on the ESPN television network series: Street Ball: The AND 1 Mix Tape Tour presented by Mountain Dew.

"We are excited to be collaborating with Ubisoft to make a game inspired by the AND 1 Mix Tape Tour," said Ron Skotarczak, vice president of marketing and entertainment at AND 1. "We are looking forward to working together to create a franchise that captures the spirit of what the AND 1 brand represents authenticity, attitude and performance."

"Ubisoft is thrilled to be adding the AND 1 license to its line-up of sports videogames," said Laurent Detoc, president of Ubisoft North America. "The strength of the AND 1 brand and the creativity Ubisoft brings to the table make this agreement exciting news for the sports genre."

[More fuel for the Nintendo inferno.]

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TalkBack / Legend of Zelda Trailer Released

« on: March 10, 2005, 11:22:21 AM »

More fuel for the Nintendo inferno.

A new trailer for the hotly aniticipated Legend of Zelda has surfaced and can be found on the official Zelda website.

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TalkBack / RE: Iwata Keynote Tidbits

« on: March 10, 2005, 10:38:47 AM »

Good lord, this is a fine, fine day. It's been a while since Nintendo has made me feel genuinely great about being a fan (the last time was E3 2004 for the first LoZ trailer), but today earned them a lot of faith and respect in my book. They're handling things like they should be, taking advantage of what's at their disposal. E3 2005 can't come soon enough. As for the new Zelda trailer, I got a lump in my throat. No dramatic single tear fell, but you guys get the idea. I'm a very happy man today.

[Pac-Man makes his debut on the DS!]

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TalkBack / Pac-Pix Comes To U.S.

« on: March 09, 2005, 10:24:17 AM »

Pac-Man makes his debut on the DS!

PAC-MAN(R) TO MAKE NINTENDO DS(TM) DEBUT IN "PAC-PIX(TM)"

Namco's Legendary Videogame Icon Comes To Life Through Player's Drawings and New Technology

SANTA CLARA, Calif., (March 9, 2005) - Global video games publisher Namco Hometek Inc. announced today that Pac-Man(R)'s newest adventure will be available for the U.S. market in April 2005.  Exclusively for the Nintendo DS(TM), "Pac-Pix(TM)" joins Namco's previously released DS titles -- "Mr. DRILLER(R) Drill Spirits(TM)" and "Ridge Racer(R) DS" - in an exciting new take on the classic franchise.

In "Pac-Pix," Namco's iconic hero finds himself facing off against his perennial foes - the Ghosts. With the aid of mysterious "Ghost Ink," a mischievous wizard has drawn meddling Ghosts from thin air.  Armed with only his mighty Magic Pen, Pac-Man rushed to defeat the Ghosts and to lock them into a book.  But in the process of turning them back into Ghost Ink, our hero finds himself trapped inside.  Now, using the DS stylus, players must resume Pac-Man's quest by drawing him into life and directing his movements on the lower screen of the Nintendo DS.

"'Pac-Pix' gives players a completely new way to experience Pac-Man!" said Yoshi Niki, Business Unit Director with Namco Hometek Inc. "With the help of the Nintendo DS's stylus, players have full control of Pac-Man's every move and fate."

Combining exciting new technology and the timeless gameplay of one of the world's most beloved franchises, "Pac-Pix" promises to be a handheld game like no other and a must-have for Pac-Man fans.  Players must draw multiple Pac-Mans in order to eat all the Ghosts - drawing a bigger Pac-Man allows him to take on bigger Ghosts. Or, the player can control Pac-Man's movements by drawing walls in his path to force him to change direction and hunt down the sneaky Ghosts. Players can also enjoy collecting hidden items along the way and unlock the ability to draw Ghost-shooting arrows and even bombs - the bigger the bomb, the bigger the blast!

[X-Men Legends II's score will be composed by acclaimed composer Gregor Narholz.]

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TalkBack / Activision Levels Up X-Men's Audio

« on: March 09, 2005, 09:17:38 AM »

X-Men Legends II's score will be composed by acclaimed composer Gregor Narholz.

APM FILM AND TELEVISION COMPOSER GREGOR NARHOLZ SIGNS ON TO SCORE ACTIVISION'S X-MENT LEGENDS SEQUEL

 

Santa Monica, CA - March 9, 2005 - APM film and television composer Gregor Narholz is set to score Activision, Inc.'s (Nasdaq: ATVI) X-Men* Legends II, based on Marvel's legendary Super Hero team.

Through an agreement with APM (http://www.apmmusic.com), the world's largest provider of music for use in film, television and interactive productions, Narholz - who composed the original score for The Spongebob Squarepants Movie and whose library compositions have been used in Return to Neverland, The Rookie and Soul Plane, as well as television shows Star Trek, The X-Files, Seinfeld, Friends and Saturday Night Live - will compose and arrange the music for the highly anticipated sequel.

"The futuristic, high adrenaline adventures of the X-Men create a prolific playground for my imagination and music," said Narholz. "I am looking forward to creating unique, modular compositions to underscore this exciting new branded interactive production."

In addition to his work in Hollywood, Narholz is an accomplished conductor who is co-founder and co-director of the Budapest Film Orchestra. Much of Narholz's music can be licensed in the APM library as well.

"Narholz's ability to create distinctive and powerful music will add a unique dimension and energy to the X-Men Legends sequel," said Will Kassoy, vice president of global brand management, Activision Publishing. "Given his talents and success in composing for film and television, I know he will do an excellent job of bringing Marvel's X-Men universe to life in a score that perfectly complements the game."

X-Men Legends II is currently in development by Raven Software and will be available later this year. The first game in the X-Men Legends series is currently available worldwide for the PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system, Xbox video game system from Microsoft and Nintendo GameCube.  

[Majesco launches a website for its DS shooter.]

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TalkBack / Official Nanostray Website Goes Live

« on: March 08, 2005, 11:09:18 AM »

Majesco launches a website for its DS shooter.

Head on over and check out Nanostray's website, which includes forums, up-to-the-minute news, the official trailer, and everything else known about Majesco's new game.  

[Sammy Studios has seperated from parent company Sammy Corp. to become High Moon Studios.]

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TalkBack / The Sammy Split-Up

« on: March 07, 2005, 10:49:11 AM »

Sammy Studios has seperated from parent company Sammy Corp. to become High Moon Studios.

SAMMY STUDIOS, INC. COMPLETES MANAGEMENT BUYOUT FROM PARENT SAMMY CORP., ESTABLISHES INDEPENDENT COMPANY HIGH MOON STUDIOS, INC.

New Company Acquires All Rights to Studio's Original I.P. Including "Darkwatch," Retains HQ in San Diego County.

CARLSBAD, Calif. - March 7, 2005 - Sammy Studios, Inc. today announced that it has completed a management buyout from parent company Sammy Corporation of Tokyo, Japan.  The private investment group led by John Rowe, president and chief operating officer of Sammy Studios, purchased all shares of the company as well as the rights to original video game properties being developed at the studio, including the upcoming console title "Darkwatch." The acquisition takes place in advance of Sammy's integration of video game operations with Sega as the two Japanese companies merge into Sega Sammy Holdings, Inc.

Sammy Studios also announced today that the company has changed its name to High Moon Studios, Inc., establishing a wholly independent, privately held game development company.  High Moon will be headed by Mr. Rowe, a seasoned veteran of the game industry for more than 20 years.  The company remains headquartered in a state-of-the-art development studio in Carlsbad, California, where more than 100 developers are working on both current and next-generation console titles.

Commenting on the announcements, Mr. Rowe, president and CEO of High Moon Studios, said, "Today we introduce ourselves as a new, independent video game company.  Sammy's decision to discontinue game development in North America has afforded us the rare opportunity to establish an independent studio built on existing capabilities and resources.  High Moon is our new identity, yet our creative and technical capabilities, our talented development teams and the phenomenal resources at our disposal are unchanged."  

High Moon remains managed by the team who established the studio three years ago, industry veterans who dedicated themselves to creating a company focused on introducing original, franchise-worthy video game and entertainment properties.  The team's first such effort, soon to be released for home consoles, is the highly anticipated Vampire-Western first-person shooter "Darkwatch."

"We have the technology, the creativity and the independence to create new worlds and characters focused through the lens of addictive game play," said Chris Ulm, VP, design director, High Moon Studios. "'Darkwatch' is only the tip of the iceberg.  We have projects already in development for the next generation, so it is a great time to be focused on delivering original games that break the mold."

"We have put together tremendous teams here over the past three years," said Emmanuel Valdez, VP, creative director, High Moon Studios.  "Many of those we have brought on board have experienced the challenges that can bind innovation in our industry.  That experience helps us discover ways to break those boundaries.  This is our prevalent philosophy, and we can now be resolute in applying it to create original video game ideas designed for the Western market."

In addition to Mr. Valdez and Mr. Ulm, High Moon's senior management is Rick Olafsson, CFO, Clinton Keith, VP, technology director, Farzad Varahramyan, creative visual director, and Paul O'Connor, lead game designer.    

[The video game adaptation of the new Twentieth Century Fox film is on its way to stores.]

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TalkBack / Robots Ships To Retailers

« on: March 07, 2005, 10:41:49 AM »

The video game adaptation of the new Twentieth Century Fox film is on its way to stores.

ROBOTS, THE VIDEO GAME BASED ON TWENTIETH CENTURY FOX'S UPCOMING ANIMATED FEATURE FILM EVENT, SHIPS TO RETAIL

An exhilarating interactive experience from Vivendi Universal Games incorporates the best elements from the movie with quality gameplay, exploration, puzzle-solving and combat.

 LOS ANGELES (March 7, 2005) - Vivendi Universal Games today announced Robots(tm) has shipped to retail stores nationwide - several days ahead of the March 11th animated feature film release from Twentieth Century Fox and Blue Sky Studios, creators of the hit feature Ice Age.  The Robots game puts players in the role of the film's hero Rodney Copperbottom, as he embarks on thrilling adventures through the living mechanical world of the Robots movie.  The game is available on six platforms including Sony PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, the Xbox® video game system from Microsoft, Nintendo GameCube(tm), Game Boy® Advance and DS video game system and PC.

"We have captured all of the fun, excitement, playful humor and visually engaging qualities of Robots in a video game that will appeal to kids and fans of the animated feature everywhere," said Philip W. O'Neil, President of North America, Vivendi Universal Games. "Our multi-platform game will continue the excitement of what is sure to be the movie event of the Winter/Spring 2005."

The Robots game was developed in conjunction with Blue Sky Studios, creators of the Robots movie, to give gamers the distinct experience of playing in the film's universe through the incorporation of unique movie assets. The action commences as players hop on a train to a mechanical metropolis of moving gears and winding parts.  Along the way, they encounter an unforgettable cast of characters and battle evil bots, as they discover the many ways a robot can invent cool and unique gadgets.  The world of the Robots' is about to be taken over by an evil tyrant, and it is up to the player to save his fellow robots from a tragic destiny!

 

Robots is available on the Sony PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, the Xbox® video game system from Microsoft, Nintendo GameCube(tm), Game Boy® Advance and DS video game system and PC with an ESRB "Everyone" rating.  The game was developed  by Eurocom Entertainment Software (PlayStation®2, Xbox®, GameCube(tm) and PC) and Griptonite Games (Game Boy® Advance and Nintendo® DualScreen).  For more information, log on to http://robotsgame.com.

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Nintendo Gaming / RE: In the yearrr two thousand

« on: March 06, 2005, 04:12:27 PM »

The yearrrr two thosand...

- StarCraft Ghost will be released... for the Game Boy Color.

- Fuscia Link will move to San Francisco with Slippy Toad to live in a loft. In a related story, Tycho from Penny Arcade takes over for Ms. Cleo.

- SNK will publicly call out Capcom and propose that the eternal war between Street Fighter and King of Fighters heat up again. Capcom will look up briefly and get back to developing Resident Evil 5.

In the year two thoSAND...

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NWR Feedback / RE: More moderator action = better?

« on: March 05, 2005, 03:10:21 PM »

I can certainly understand where you're coming from. A forum is always more fun when the mods contribute to the topic. I'll be sure to speak a bit more often from now on.