Show Posts

This section allows you to view all posts made by this member. Note that you can only see posts made in areas you currently have access to.


Messages - Jonnyboy117

Pages: 1 ... 216 217 [218] 219
5426
TalkBack / BAM! Joins Forces with Cavia
« on: September 19, 2002, 11:04:10 AM »
American publisher + Japanese developer = money.

Today BAM! Entertainment announced their cooperation with Japanese developer Cavia, Inc.  The first joint venture between the two companies is a horror-themed action driving game, to be released in September 2003, although no platforms have been set.  Members of Cavia have previously worked on Sega GT, Ridge Racer, and Ace Combat.  Here's the full press release:


BAM! ENTERTAINMENT TEAMS UP WITH JAPAN'S RENOWNED VIDEO GAME DEVELOPER CAVIA


The Two Companies Initiate Long-Term Development Relationship  


Tokyo Game Show -- Tokyo, Japan -- (September 19, 2002) - BAM! Entertainment (Nasdaq: BFUN) today announced that it has teamed up with acclaimed Japanese developer, Cavia Inc., to develop and publish titles for next generation gaming systems.  Members of the development team have worked on award-winning titles, including Sega GT, Ridge Racer and Ace Combat.  The first game to come out of this partnership is scheduled to ship in September 2003.  


"We are very happy to have the opportunity to work with Mr. Stolar and his team, and we believe that this first collaboration will make for a very quality game," said Hayao Nakayama, President of Cavia Inc. "I hope this title marks the first of many successes between our two companies."


"I am extremely pleased to be working again with my former Sega colleague, Mr. Nakayama, and look forward to continuing our relationship of bringing consumers superior games," said Bernard Stolar, President and Chief Operating Officer of BAM! Entertainment.  "Even at this initial stage, the concept idea is expressing an amazing art style, a dynamic storyline, and an incredible depth of gameplay."  


The first game will be a mission-based, driving action adventure set in a distinctive world featuring a significant element of horror.  Further details will be made available in the coming months.


About Cavia, Inc.
Cavia is a joint venture of six firms, which include TOKUMA SHOTEN PUBLISHING CO., LTD. NIPPON TELEVISION NETWORK CORPORATION, TOHOKUSHINSHA FILM CORPORATION, Tokyo FM Broadcasting Co., Mitsubishi Corporation, and Amuse Capital, Ltd.  Hayao Nakayama, the former president of Sega, is Cavia's president of both Cavia and its parent company, Amuse Capital, Ltd.


5427
TalkBack / THQ Ships Ripping Friends for GBA
« on: September 17, 2002, 12:25:01 PM »
I knew some ripping friends, but they went to jail.

THQ has wrapped up Cartoon Netowrk title for GBA, and it's on the way to stores now. The cartoon is about a group of kids who are pledged to making the world more manly.  The show is being created by the same people who made Ren & Stimpy for Nickelodeon several years ago.  Here's the full press release:


THQ SHIPS THE RIPPING FRIENDS FOR GAME BOY® ADVANCE  


Popular Cartoon Franchise Makes Its Game Boy® Advance Debut  


CALABASAS HILLS, Calif. – September 17, 2002 – THQâ Inc. (NASDAQ NMS: THQI) today announced the release of The Ripping Friends™ for Game Boy® Advance.  The videogame is based on the animated television series of the same name, created by John Kricfalusi and animation studio, Spumco Inc., creators of the top-rated Ren and Stimpy Show. The Cartoon Networkä recently signed The Ripping Friends with plans to air 13 episodes this fall.  The Ripping Friends for Game Boy Advance is now available at retail outlets nationwide.


 


“We are pleased to be working with John Kricfalusi again on his latest creative series,” said Germaine Gioia, vice president, licensing, THQ.  “Being a part of the Cartoon Network assures The Ripping Friends a broad audience.  This is an example of THQ’s mass-market strategy of providing quality Game Boy Advance games to players of all ages.”


 


“As the number one third party handheld game publisher, THQ is the ideal partner in bringing The Ripping Friends to the Game Boy Advance,” said Kevin Kolde general manager, Spumco.  “Their expertise in bringing popular cartoon properties to handheld gaming audiences means fans of the show will be able to take on the role of their favorite character and save the earth in the manliest way.”


 


In The Ripping Friends for Game Boy Advance, gamers play as their favorite character including Rip, Chunk, Slab and Crag, in battle against Citrasett and an array of his minions.  Based on original characters and environments from the cartoon, players will explore seven huge levels with five additional sub-levels as they fight to uphold the Ripping Friends sworn duty to make the earth a safer place in which to be manly.  Manly items like the Blaster, Freeze Ray or Popgun can be picked up along the way to assist the superheroes on their mission.  Multiplayer action allows gamers to link up to four players using the GBA link cable.  


 


For more information on The Ripping Friends for Game Boy Advance or the rest of the 2002 THQ Holiday lineup, please visit www.thq.com.


5428
TalkBack / THQ Ships Second SpongeBob for GBA
« on: September 13, 2002, 01:07:52 PM »
You know you watch this show, so just admit it already.

THQ has shipped their second SpongeBob SquarePants game for GBA, subtitled "Revenge of the Flying Dutchman".  A GameCube version will be released this December in North America.  Here's the dealio:


THQ AND NICKELODEON SHIP


SPONGEBOB SQUAREPANTS™: REVENGE OF THE FLYING DUTCHMAN


 


Most Popular Program On Kids’ TV Arrives On Game Boy® Advance


 


 


CALABASAS HILLS, Calif. – Sept. 12, 2002 – THQâ Inc. (NASDAQ NMS: THQI) and Nickelodeon today announced the release of SpongeBob SquarePants™: Revenge of the Flying Dutchman for Game Boy® Advance.  This underwater adventure is based on Nickelodeon’s top-rated kids’ program, SpongeBob SquarePants -- the highest rated property on kids’ TV.  SpongeBob SquarePants: Revenge of the Flying Dutchman is now available at retailers nationwide.    


 


 “SpongeBob SquarePants is the #1 kids show on all of TV, with more than 57.4 million viewers a month, and is one of the entertainment world's hottest licenses at the moment” stated Peter Dille, Vice President, Marketing, THQ.  “And as a proven videogame property, we're excited to be shipping SpongeBob SquarePants: Revenge of the Flying Dutchman well in advance of the start to the holiday buying season.”


 


 


“THQ’s proven ability to transform our award-winning kids’ programs into exciting gameplay has brought us tremendous success in the videogame category,” stated Steve Youngwood, Vice President, Nickelodeon Media Products Group.  “We are pleased to be kicking off our 2002 holiday lineup, our most expansive to date, with our premier character -- SpongeBob SquarePants.”


 


In SpongeBob SquarePants: Revenge of the Flying Dutchman for Game Boy Advance, players assume the role of SpongeBob, as he discovers a magic bottle and unwillingly unleashes the Flying Dutchman.  Furious that he was disturbed, the Dutchman places a curse on SpongeBob.  To lift the curse, SpongeBob must seek out 10 lost treasures that have been scattered throughout Bikini Bottom.  The game features all of the favorite characters from the television show including Sandy Cheeks, Squidward and Patrick Star.  Players can explore 11 exciting levels within five oceanic-sized chapters including: Bikini Bottom, Jellyfish Fields, Outer Town, Goo Lagoon and Dutchman’s Underworld.  Multiple mini-games can be unlocked by collecting gold coins, adding hours of gameplay to this handheld undersea adventure.


 


SpongeBob SquarePants: Revenge of the Flying Dutchman for PlayStation®2 is scheduled for release this November, SpongeBob SquarePants: Revenge of the Flying Dutchman for GameCube™ is scheduled for release this December and SpongeBob SquarePants™: Employee of the Month for PC is scheduled for release in September.


 


For more information on SpongeBob SquarePants: Revenge of the Flying Dutchman or the rest of the THQ holiday lineup, please visit www.thq.com.


5429
TalkBack / Rare Comments On Rare
« on: September 13, 2002, 12:35:31 PM »
Employees sound off about the sale to Microsoft.

The newly revived RareNet has an exclusive story on Rare employees' reactions to the Microsoft deal.  The speakers are all anonymous, of course, but this is a very rare chance to hear from the company employees themselves.  Here's a brief excerpt:


"Well, to be honest, you could say I'm pretty bloody put about by the whole damn thing. You know, a few of us knew something was coming for quite a while but still; you learn the ins and outs of a certain system, it's quite technical, and then you suddenly thrust onto a new one, with a half-finished game in your hand. Not my idea of fun, personally."


Hit the link above for the full story.


5430
TalkBack / FF Tactics Advance Website Launches
« on: September 13, 2002, 12:10:06 PM »
Time to get excited!

There's a new Japanese website for Square's upcoming GBA debut, Final Fantasy Tactics Advance.  Judging from our automated Babelfish translation, the site will fully launch (presumably with screens and more info) on September 20th, and there's a big counter ticking down to that moment.  However, a second page of extra info does note that the game will be present and playable at the upcoming Tokyo Game Show in Japan.  Hit the link above to check this site out, but keep in mind that it is in Japanese.


5431
TalkBack / THQ Ships Scooby for GameCube
« on: September 13, 2002, 11:47:21 AM »
Yo Scrappy, wassup!

Today THQ announced that their newest game, Scooby-Doo! Night of 100 Frights, has shipped for GameCube.  The game features some of the original cartoon series voice cast, including Don Knotts, Tim Conway and Tim Curry.  The release doesn't mention whether or not Casey Kasem returns to play Shaggy...


Hit the link above for the full announcement.


5432
TalkBack / Skies of Arcadia Legend Confirmed for US
« on: September 12, 2002, 11:48:17 AM »
The GameCube upgrade to this RPG from Sega and Overworks now has a US release date.  Plus, more info on the new content.

Today Sega of America confirmed that Eternal Arcadia Legend for GameCube will be released in North America in January 2003 as Skies of Arcadia Legend.  The press release also notes that the game will have new sections that tell the characters' backstories and other events leading up to the original plot.  Here's the official word:


San Francisco - September 12, 2002 - SEGA(R) of America, Inc. today confirmed that the highly anticipated title "Skies of Arcadia(TM) Legends" will make its U.S. debut on the Nintendo GameCube(TM) in January 2003.  


The second game in the already-classic franchise, "Skies of Arcadia Legends" features hours of all-new gameplay chronicling the back-story of the game's main characters and a refined battle system, delivering the definitive version of the critically acclaimed "Skies of Arcadia," originally released for the SEGA Dreamcast(R).


The game casts players as the leader of a roaming band of Air Pirates on a perilous quest spanning six diverse worlds.  In "Skies of Arcadia Legends," gamers will have immense freedom to interact with all aspects of the enormous game world, including more than 300 unique characters, more than 70 weapons and dozens of magic spells and items.


"One of the first RPGs available for the Nintendo GameCube, 'Skies of Arcadia Legends' delivers an epic, engaging story, brilliant play mechanics and stunning next-gen graphics," said Rich Briggs, senior product manager, SEGA of America, Inc.  "Whether you've played 'Skies of Arcadia' and have been wondering how Vyse received the scar on his face, or you missed the original Dreamcast version, 'Skies of Arcadia Legends' is the must-own 'Director's Cut' of this soon-to-be-classic adventure."


5433
TalkBack / Timesplitters 2 Trailer
« on: September 06, 2002, 04:18:36 PM »
Eidos has just released a new trailer for their upcoming Timesplitters 2, and we've got it.

We've uploaded the newest trailer of Timesplitters 2 from Eidos.  The GameCube version is set to ship in North America on October 15th.  


Click here for the trailer


Don't forget to right click and save the file to your computer.


*Download the latest Windows Media Player to view this files.


5434
TalkBack / Major C2 Engine Update
« on: August 29, 2002, 06:56:13 AM »
Not a huge leap in technology this time, but rather content.  It now seems to imitate a certain rowdy PS2 game that Nintendo fans would love to be playing...

AGB Games has updated their C2 engine once again, only now the "racing" demo is looking more and more like a Grand Theft Auto 3 clone.  You can click the link above to see screenshots, and they'll have video up this weekend.  But check out this description of the added content:


Basically we've added a few features to the demo including the ability to fight in the street, run people over, hijack every vehicle within the environment, blow everything up using a rocket launcher. 4 camera modes. additional vehicles and people, guys that shoot back, sound effects and music. Oh and an RPG style text information display and lots of new character anims.


5435
TalkBack / Acclaim Ships Two GBA Racers
« on: August 28, 2002, 06:56:10 PM »
Aggressive Inline and ATV Quad Power Racing should be in stores soon.

Like racing games on your GBA?  Acclaim just shipped two of them for your consideration.  Aggressive Inline, developed by Full Fat, is a port of the critically acclaimed console inline skating game, recently released for GameCube.  ATV Quad Power Racing is from Australian developer Tantalus, and features a very cutting-edge 3D polygonal racing engine, complete with crashes.  Both games are priced at $29.99 USD and should be on store shelves today or tomorrow.


5436
TalkBack / Rune 2 is Official
« on: August 25, 2002, 07:06:10 AM »
Japanese gamers will be getting a sequel to From Software's Rune (Lost Kingdoms).

We've heard rumors for a while now, but From Software has finally updated their official website with info and a few tiny screenshots of Rune 2.


Judging from our Babelfish translation, the story takes place 200 years after the first game.  The different countries have been unified under the Queen, who was the previous game's main character.  However, someone has learned to manufacture Runestones, the objects that allow people to use magical cards.  With this technology in hand, new forces of evil are attacking the kingdom, and a new young heroine must prevail.


Rune 2 seems to feature slightly improved graphics, a type of card called "Change" that seems to affect the environment, and the ability to re-enter stages after you beat them.  Also, the mechanical translation seems to indicate that battles are now fully real-time, i.e. there is no pause between exploring and fighting monsters.


There now over 200 cards (more than double the previous total), and there's a new Machine element which will surely add new strategies.  The website also notes that Rune's two-player versus mode is returning, including the ante option.


Thanks to TheHyeCircus for the tip!  We'll try to get a more exact and reliable translation of this site soon to clear up the details.


5437
TalkBack / Mirra Leaves XXX
« on: August 19, 2002, 09:42:44 AM »
The world-famous BMX rider has decided to drop his name and presence from Acclaim's upcoming M-rated game.

Over the weekend, reader Photek sent us the link above, which leads to a transcript of an online chat Dave Mirra gave before the newest X-Games competition.  Mirra claims in the transcript that his name has been removed from Dave Mirra BMX XXX, the first-ever rated-M extreme sports game.


Planet GameCube contacted Acclaim this morning, and the company did confirm this information.  Dave Mirra's name will not only be absent from the game's title, but he will no longer be present in the roster at all.  The game's new name has not been finalized, but it will contain the words "BMX XXX".  It's still due out in November for all three consoles, including GameCube.


So have Mirra and Acclaim parted ways?  No.  In fact, the star just renewed his contract with the publisher for five more years.  Although he won't be appearing in Z-Axis's final BMX title for Acclaim, other games featuring Mirra are planned for the future.


5438
TalkBack / AGB Games Does It Again
« on: August 16, 2002, 01:13:57 PM »
The promising developer's 3D engine for GBA just got even more impressive.

AGB Games has now added a major new feature to the GBA 3D engine: people.  Not just that, but dozens of people, walking around these fully polygonal worlds, with fully polygonal car traffic to boot.  Hit the link above for screens and video.


5439
TalkBack / Ikaruga Headed to GameCube!
« on: August 15, 2002, 07:06:45 PM »
The sequel to Radiant Silvergun just got a lot easier to get your hands on.

According to IGNcube, Treasure's sequel to Radiant Silvergun, one of the most acclaimed and beloved 2D shooters of all time, is coming to GameCube.  Ikaruga started in the arcades, and when the first home version is released later this year, it will be one of the last new Dreamcast games ever shipped.  However, Treasure is also preparing a GameCube version to be released "worldwide" in early 2003.  This enhanced port will include features that even the Dreamcast version doesn't have.


5440
TalkBack / Lego Island Xtreme Stunts Announced
« on: August 15, 2002, 04:56:00 PM »
Extreme stuff for the youngsters is on the way.

Coming soon to GBA, Lego Island Xtreme Stunts from Lego Interactive and Electronic Arts takes the basic idea of PS2's Stuntman, simplifies it for the kids, and adds all sorts of Lego interactivity with building vehicles and modifying the environments.  Check out the offical press release below:


EA and LEGO Interactive Roll Into Action With Island Xtreme Stunts


REDWOOD CITY, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Aug. 15, 2002--Lights, camera, action! Island Xtreme Stunts, the latest video game from LEGO® Interactive, places players in the role of a stuntman on a high-energy Hollywood movie set with a demanding director who needs jaw-dropping stunts for his new action adventure film. The game, which is being co-published by Electronic Arts (Nasdaq:ERTS - News) and LEGO Interactive, is under development for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, Nintendo's Game Boy® Advance and the PC. All versions are geared toward young gamers aged six and up and are scheduled to ship in fall 2002. ADVERTISEMENT    


 In Island Xtreme Stunts, players take on the role of Pepper Roni as they drive, fly, jet ski, skateboard, motorbike and sky surf through five extreme stunt adventures that take them all over LEGO Island. A skate park on the main island allows Pepper to learn eight basic grabs and then perform spins, fakies and grinds to hone his skills to his heart's content.  


Players can hop from shoot to shoot in any of the 14 vehicles available to drive, fly or pilot -- provided they pass their tests first of course. All of the vehicles are based on the LEGO Island Xtreme Stunts toy line and can be built from interactive LEGO pieces. In addition, a favorite feature with younger fans of this franchise is the ability to customize any aspects of LEGO Island at the touch of a button.  


A game of huge variety, Island Xtreme Stunts also gives players a reason to venture around the Island between stunt action sets. Exploring the island means gamers can discover more than 25 quests to complete, earning new trading cards for their collection, scooping up LEGO bricks along the way as well as unlocking new sub-games.  


The desire to be the number one stuntman on the set plus the endless replay value offered around LEGO Island itself makes Island Xtreme Stunts a heroic action adventure that is second to none for this young gaming audience.


5441
TalkBack / BAM! Ships Kong
« on: August 14, 2002, 10:49:51 AM »
This GBA action game is based on the animated series.

If you like monkeys and DNA recombination, you should check it out.


BAM! ENTERTAINMENT SHIPS THE ADVENTURES OF A 40-FOOT APE TO THE GAME BOY® ADVANCE THIS WEEK WITH KONG


Action Adventure Side-Scrolling 2-D Game Is Based On "Kong: The Animated TV Series"


San Jose, Calif. (August 13, 2002) - BAM! Entertainment, Inc.(Nasdaq: BFUN) today announced that it is shipping the action adventure game, Kong, for the Game Boy Advance to retailers this week.  Based on the television cartoon "Kong: The Animated Series" from global entertainment company BKN International, the game was developed by the French studios of Planet Interactive Development.  


The 40 episode animated television series has been widely distributed by BKN International (producers of Roswell Conspiracies; UBOS (Ultimate Book of Spells)) on top networks in major markets, including USA (Fox Kids), Canada (Teletoon), UK (Sky One), France (M6).  


"The team at Planet Interactive Development has a tremendous enthusiasm for the property Kong," said Alain Tascan, Vice President of Worldwide Development of BAM! Entertainment.  "The combination of an outstanding property and the team's experience developing for the Game Boy Advance makes for an impressive game."   Kong follows the story of a boy named Jason and an ape by the name of Kong.  Kong is the result of an experiment conducted by Jason's scientist grandmother, Dr Jenkins, in which she attempted to clone the original Kong to create a new Kong.  In order to fill in the DNA sequence gaps in the genetic sample from the original Kong, Dr. Jenkins used human DNA from her grandson Jason and a new Kong was born.  Now years later, Kong has been living a tranquil existence in his pre-historic island home, Kong Island, until the evil professor Ramone De La Porta disrupts the idyllic island by stealing the primal stones that are essential to the island's survival.  Kong and Jason must rescue the stones and restore peace to the island before the land and its inhabitants become permanently damaged.


The adventures of Kong and Jason take players to several interesting environments including deadly swamps, sacred temples and the forests of Kong Island.  In addition to finding the stones and defeating the professor, they will need to fight off the island's rampaging animal inhabitants, which include a host of prehistoric foes such as the pterodactyl, phobosaurus and cephalosaurus. It's a tall order for any regular boy or ape, so to assist them in their quest when things get difficult, Jason and Kong will be able to merge their DNA to become an almost indestructible force.


5442
TalkBack / First Footage of Final Fantasy on GameCube
« on: August 14, 2002, 10:23:35 AM »
Download it for FREEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!

The newest Japanese GameCube commercial features the first-ever footage of Final Fantasy: Crystal Chronicles running on GameCube.  The video is already available at several places on the Net, but PGC is also hosting it for FREE at this address:


Right-click here and Save Target As


The Japanese text clearly states that the game is called Final Fantasy: Crystal Chronicles, and the copyright at the bottom is for Game Designer Studio, which is the phantom company created so that Square can develop and publish games on Nintendo platforms.


More info on this game is sure to be released soon!


Thanks to the many readers who told us about this video, and also to the kind-hearted folks who hosted it originally for us and others to see.


5443
TalkBack / Rare Dumps DK?
« on: August 13, 2002, 02:19:31 PM »
Hey, what happened to Donkey Kong Racing and Coconut Crackers?

It seems that Rare's official site (link above) has deleted links to both Donkey Kong Racing and DK Coconut Crackers from its "Forthcoming Projects" page.  No explanation from the company is given, but it's worth noting that Diddy Kong Pilot is still listed.


Thanks to the many readers who spotted this and alerted us.


5444
TalkBack / Enclave Comes to GameCube
« on: August 06, 2002, 05:33:21 PM »
The recently released Xbox adventure game is coming to GameCube too.

IGNcube reports that Enclave from Starbreeze Studios and Conspiracy Entertainment will be released on GameCube (as well as PS2 and PC) this holiday season.  Enclave has been getting some attention for its excellent graphic achievements on Xbox.


5445
TalkBack / THQ Drops Toxic Grind for GameCube
« on: August 06, 2002, 05:15:53 PM »
The skateboarding game in the style of Dark Summit will be an Xbox exclusive.

According to IGNcube, THQ has canceled the GameCube version of Toxic Grind.  The game, which features story-based skateboarding action in the vein of Dark Summit, will now be released exclusively on Xbox later this year.


5446
TalkBack / Lucky Gamers Play Animal Crossing Early
« on: August 06, 2002, 12:08:19 PM »
Enter a contest to be an Animal Crossing "pioneer".

NINTENDO `PIONEERS' GET FIRST CHANCE TO PREVIEW ANIMAL CROSSING


Select Players Nationwide Will Play Upcoming NINTENDO GAMECUBE Title a Month Before Launch


REDMOND, Wash., August 7, 2002 - Moviegoers get "sneak previews." Book lovers get "exclusive excerpts." Now, video game players get their chance for a privileged video game experience. Nintendo of America today launches a nationwide contest to find the first video game players to experience its upcoming NINTENDO GAMECUBE(TM) title, Animal Crossing(TM), a full month before it becomes available to the general public.


Through August 12, fans can enter in teams of two for the chance to be selected as Animal Crossing Pioneers, the first players in the United States to move into this virtual neighborhood. Nintendo will choose 125 teams via a contest on www.nintendo.com where they will be asked to explain why Nintendo should pick them to be Animal Crossing Pioneers. Winners will receive a pre-released copy of Animal Crossing and be invited into the limitless world of the game.


"Animal Crossing is a unique title that has to be experienced firsthand to be truly understood and appreciated. Its success in Japan, with over 700,000 units sold, inspired us to want to get feedback as soon as possible from U.S. players," says Peter MacDougall, executive vice president, sales and marketing, Nintendo of America Inc. "Animal Crossing Pioneers will be true trailblazers for Nintendo and we're looking forward to hearing about their virtual communities and experiences."


The Animal Crossing Pioneers will work closely with Nintendo to complete game objectives, provide feedback, participate in online chats and post comments on an Animal Crossing Pioneer-only Web site.


These virtual explorers will step into the world of Animal Crossing, where villagers live their everyday lives in time with an actual 24-hour clock and 365-day year. They will carry out their daily routines, build relationships with villagers, celebrate special days, collect furnishings for their homes and just live life in an innovative experience that's a world of its own. And, when team members exchange memory cards they can visit other villages, thus opening up endless possibilities.


For an application or to view the official contest rules, visit www.nintendo.com/animalcrossing. Animal Crossing launches September 16 with an MSRP of $49.95.


5447
TalkBack / Atlus Brings Animal Leader Stateside
« on: August 05, 2002, 03:51:06 PM »
The rumors are true: Animal Leader is coming to the US as Cubivore.

We've been hearing about this Cubivore game for a few days now, and the general consensus was that it must be Doubutso Bancho, a.k.a. Animal Leader.  Today Atlus sent out the press release below, confirming the rumors and announcing an American release of one of the weirdest games to ever come from Japan.  Importers have been enjoying the unique experience for months, and now everyone else will have a chance to try this truly bizarre title.  Atlus has also told PGC that the game will be more or less a straight conversion; all the text will be translated (a considerable job with the original's quirky use of the Japanese language), but the gameplay and graphics will remain the same.  Here's the official press release:


ATLUS U.S.A., INC. BRINGS CUBIVORE, ONE OF THE MOST UNIQUE GAMES EVER CREATED, TO THE U.S. MARKET


EAT OR BE EATEN!


Irvine, CA, August 5, 2002 – Atlus U.S.A., Inc., a leading publisher of interactive entertainment, announced today a new title, Cubivore, for the holiday season.  Originally released by Nintendo in Japan under the name of Dobutsu Bancho (Animal Leader), Cubivore will ship this November for the Nintendo GameCube™ console.


The premise of the game is simple… Eat or be eaten.  Assume the role of an animal in its early stages of development.  But, in the harsh reality of nature, this creature has no parent to coddle and protect it.  From the moment the game begins, your creature is on its own to fend for its life.  As your animal instincts take over, you will boldly traverse hostile environments, savagely stalking your prey and asserting your place in the animal chain of power. Will you have what it takes to become the new king of the beasts?


Explore a number of different environments while consuming other animals to evolve into one of 100 possible creature combinations. Also, by collecting different items you can have access to stronger body parts such as horns and fangs, which can give you the edge in this dog-eat-dog world.  However, no creature lives forever, so you’ll need to pass on your strongest traits to your offspring and the circle of life will begin again.  Ultimately, the goal is to become powerful enough to topple the alpha creature and earn your rightful place at the top of the food chain.


“Gamers will quickly be won over by its innovative gameplay and fascinating character animations,” said Akibo Shieh, Project Lead for Atlus USA, Inc. “With easy-to-learn controls and a quirky sense of humor, Cubivore, promises to deliver an entirely new gaming experience on the Nintendo GameCube.”


HIGHLIGHTS AND KEY FEATURES:


 Abstract cubic style comes to life, as a huge array of surreal creatures interact with their natural environments! Marvel at their fluid movement as they stalk their prey, flee predators, and camouflage themselves with their surroundings!  Dolby Surround Sound immerses you in a world of wild grunts, menacing growls, and terrifying screeches!  Ferociously addictive gameplay! It’s survival of the fittest as you prove once and for all, who is the king of the beasts! Only a combination of strategy, instinct, and luck can keep your animal alive!  Cultivate your animal’s strengths by carefully selecting both your prey and mates to evolve in the most effective way!  Play again and again to develop even more surprising and dominating beasts!


“It’s absolutely one of the most bizarre games we’ve laid our hands on and that’s what makes it interesting.” - IGN GameCube


“…a memorable gaming experience.” – Gaming World X


“Simply addictive…” - Games Domain


CUBIVORE has a suggested retail price of US $49.99 and has not yet been rated by the ESRB. For more information, visit the official Atlus web site at www.atlus.com.


5448
TalkBack / Skies of Arcadia Legend Developer
« on: August 05, 2002, 03:25:54 PM »
The upgraded Skies of Arcadia for GameCube is being made by Point of View Software...right?  WRONG.

Sega of America has confirmed for PGC that the upcoming Skies of Arcadia Legend for GameCube is in fact being developed by Overworks, the Sega developer who created the original Dreamcast game.  Point of View Software in California was originally announced as the game's developer, but we now know that they were only porting the PS2 version, which has since been canceled.


5449
TalkBack / Acclaim Ships Agressive In-Line for GameCube
« on: August 02, 2002, 02:14:04 PM »
The critically acclaimed sports game is now available on your GameCube.

The game should be in stores now.  Not much else to say...


Summer Heats Up With AKA Acclaim's `Aggressive Inline' for Xbox Video Game System From Microsoft and Nintendo GameCube


Award-Winning Aggressive Inline Skating Game Delivers Amazing Tricks, Massive Levels, Sultry Skaters and Incredible Soundtrack to Next-Generation Systems


GLEN COVE, N.Y.--(ENTERTAINMENT WIRE)--Aug. 1, 2002-- Bringing the award-winning gameplay and excitement of its action sports video game hit to the next-generation systems, AKA Acclaim, a division of Acclaim Entertainment, Inc. (NASDAQ.SC: AKLM), today announced it has shipped Aggressive Inline(TM) for both the Xbox(TM) video game system from Microsoft and the Nintendo GameCube(TM). A critically acclaimed release that has been a top-10 rental at Blockbuster since its debut on the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, Aggressive Inline combines the thrill of high-flying inline skating with the ease and mass-market appeal of arcade-style action.  


"We're thrilled to bring Aggressive Inline to owners of Xbox and Nintendo GameCube, and are confident that they will enjoy experiencing the new standard in action sports video games," said Ben Fischbach, Senior Brand Manager for AKA Acclaim. "With its massive levels, vast array of tricks and diverse roster of skaters, including the fan-favorite Chrissy, Aggressive Inline delivers an incredible gameplay experience for novice and non-stop gamers alike."  


Developed by Z-Axis, Aggressive Inline is the first authentic aggressive inline skating game, and features 10 top pro skaters, such as Taig Khris, Franky Morales, Jaren Grob, Shane Yost and Chris Edwards, the sport's founding father. Gamers can play as one of their favorite inline stars, as they master and explore an array of fully-interactive levels, each filled with pedestrians, traffic systems and outrageous gravity-defying challenges.  


Aggressive Inline has received high praise from the media, including IGN.com's coveted Editors' Choice Award. The press had the following to say about the game:  


   ¶ "If you love the extreme sports genre, this game is an absolute   must. It's a ton of fun and will suck away so many hours all your  friends will think you've died. Stop wasting time and order now." -             9.1/10 - Editors' Choice Award - Xbox.IGN.com


 ¶ "An extreme sports game with more depth than we could've dreamed.  Buying this game could be the smartest move you make all year. It's                that damn good." - 9.1/10 Game Informer


           "Blows away Tony Hawk..." - PS2 Extreme Magazine


Aggressive Inline includes an array of features:  


The top pros in the industry including 2001 Gravity Games and X Games Vert Champion Taig Khris, 2001 X Games Street Champion Jaren Grob, the founding father of Inline Skating, Chris Edwards, as well as Franky Morales, Shane Yost, Matt Lindenmuth, Eito Yasutoko, Sven Boekhorst, Matt Salerno and Sam Fogarty; Several sultry female skaters to choose from, including Chrissy, Jordan and Bombshell; each anatomically correct with gravity-defying physics which provide ample relief to the typical video game grind; Introducing the innovative "Juice Meter" - making timed levels a thing of the past! Now players can perform tricks and increase their juice meter for continued play; Revolutionary "Action Button" - the one-touch button solution for skitching, pole grabbing, vaulting and interactive needs, which dramatically increases the interactivity of each environment for all skill levels. 30 to 60 objectives per level, each with challenges including time limit point total, head-to-head, single trick point value, NPC challenges and more; 5 to 10 interactive cinematic events per level, which make the worlds come alive. Unlock hidden areas and secrets and actually change the playable physics of the level. Integrated park editor, allowing player to build terrains in order to accomplish objectives. Over-the-top tricks never seen before in an action sports game. Six types of manuals, grind transitions, double leg grind, new big air tricks, wall taps, stalls, wall flips, hand plants and much more; 7 huge levels, each offering a plethora of rails, ramps, pipes and tons of surprises. The Xbox version includes an eighth, never-before-seen Zoo level; Multiplayer modes of play, including many lightning-quick, split-screen games. Incredible soundtrack from bands such as: Hoobastank, Black Sheep, Pharcyde, Reel Big Fish, Sublime and more!  Aggressive Inline is currently available for the Xbox(TM) video game system from Microsoft, Nintendo GameCube(TM) and PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system at suggested retail prices of $49.99. The game will also be available in August for the Game Boy® Advance. For more information regarding this title, please visit www.acclaim.com.


5450
TalkBack / Kelly Slater Soundtrack Announced
« on: August 02, 2002, 02:03:50 PM »
Find out what tunes you'll be hearing in Kelly Slater's Pro Surfer.

Activision(R) to Feature Sun Soaked Soundtrack in Upcoming Kelly Slater's Pro Surfer(R) Video Game SANTA MONICA, Calif., Aug. 1 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Activision, Inc. (Nasdaq: ATVI - News) is bringing the sounds of surf culture to its latest O2 action sports title, Kelly Slater's Pro Surfer®, with a diverse soundtrack featuring some of today's hottest artists. Kelly Slater's Pro Surfer will be available for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, the Xbox(TM) video game system from Microsoft, Nintendo GameCube(TM) and Game Boy® Advance this summer, and will feature the following artists and tracks:  


Ben Harper - "Faded"
Jack Johnson - "Middle Man"
Pearl Jam - "WMA"
Perry Farrell - "Nua Nua"
Christopher Goze - "Sirocco"
Funky Lowlives - "Notabossa"
Greyboy - "Master the Art"
Jeremy Kay - "Back to You"
Mo' Horizons - "Foto Vida" (Nicola Conte Mix)
Quantum Dub Force - "Quantum Zone"
Rae and Christian - "Ready to Roll"
Satan's Pilgrims - "Step it Up"
Shur I Kan - "Advance"
Si Se - "Steppin Out"
Smith and Mighty - "No Justice"
Soul Hooligan - "Psychedelic Soul"
Space Cossacks - "Solaris Stomp"
Sunchild - "Vagabond Parade"
Third World - "1865" (96 degrees in the shade)
Thunderball - "Heat of the Hustler"
Thunderball - "Vai Vai"
Truby Trio - "Alegre"


Kelly Slater's Pro Surfer is the most challenging and fun surfing game ever, featuring Kelly Slater, the most recognized surfing professional of all time. Players will experience an all-out adrenaline rush as they drop in on huge waves, pull into barreling overhead tubes and pull off hundreds of insane trick combinations including fantasy tricks and signature pro moves. Players can choose to ride as six-time world champion Kelly Slater, or as one of eight of the most accomplished surfing pros of all time -- Rob Machado, Kalani Robb, Lisa Anderson, Bruce Irons, Tom Curren, Donovan Frankenreiter, Nathan Fletcher and Tom Carroll.


The game features a vast variety of play modes, challenges and tricks including a "Surf Trip" mode where players choose their own path in search of the perfect wave, traveling to 14 of the hottest real-world surf breaks from the United States, Europe, Africa, Australia, and the South Pacific. Kelly Slater's Pro Surfer is rated "E" (Everyone - mild lyrics, mild violence) - PlayStation 2, Xbox, Nintendo GameCube and "E" (Everyone) - Game Boy Advance.


Pages: 1 ... 216 217 [218] 219