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[Time to pick up the game that you pre-ordered months ago for...um...your sister.]

151

TalkBack / (No subject)

« on: November 26, 2002, 05:53:03 AM »

Time to pick up the game that you pre-ordered months ago for...um...your sister.

'MARY-KATE AND ASHLEY SWEET 16' FOR NINTENDO GAMECUBE AND PLAYSTATION®2 COMPUTER ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEM  

#1 Selling Girls' Video Game Brand Celebrates Milestone Birthdays With Great Party Game Fun BEVERLY HILLS, CA/GLEN COVE, NY, November 26, 2002 - Building on its #1 selling girls' video game brand, Dualstar Interactive, the video game division of Mary-Kate and Ashley's Dualstar Entertainment Group, and Club Acclaim, a division of Acclaim Entertainment, Inc. (NASDAQ.SC: AKLM), today announced that they have shipped Mary-Kate and AshleyÔ Sweet 16 for the Nintendo GameCubeÔ and PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system.  Club Acclaim is supporting the title with an integrated marketing campaign, including targeted TV and print advertising, and cross-promotions with the Mary-Kate and Ashley brand's best selling books, videos and fashion dolls.

 "Mary-Kate and Ashley Sweet 16 marks the next-generation debut of the most popular video game brand for girls," said Christina Recchio, Senior Brand Manager for Club Acclaim.  "We're thrilled that Mary-Kate and Ashley's fans will get the chance to get have an incredibly fun gaming experience that celebrates this exciting time in their lives."

"Mary-Kate and Ashley Sweet 16 illustrates how the Mary-Kate and Ashley brand continues to mature and innovate, and take advantage of the latest video game technologies," said Dualstar CEO Robert Thorne.  "This product reflects the changing lifestyles of Mary-Kate and Ashley and allows their audience to take this exciting journey with them."

Developed by N-Space, Mary-Kate and Ashley Sweet 16 tasks players with helping earn Mary-Kate and Ashley the sweetest birthday bash ever.  Players drive through town completing jobs for their friends and family to save up for a hot party, including a Hollywood movie premiere.

Features Include:

· Earning a driver's license to go cruising and enjoy classic, party-style gameplay;

· Over 30 mini-games to play, including Birthday Blowout, Caught Up in Fashion and Freeway Frenzy;

· Head-to-head play with up to three friends, or together in teams;

· Customize cars, unlock clothes, cool tunes and gain control of the car stereo;

· In-game music from Mary-Kate and Ashley's latest movie, Getting There.

Mary-Kate and Ashley Sweet 16 is currently available for the Nintendo GameCube and PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system at suggested retail prices of $49.99.  In addition, it is also available for the Game Boy Advance at a suggested retail price of $29.99.  For more information about Club Acclaim's entire lineup of Mary-Kate and Ashley video games, please visit www.clubacclaim.com.

[Phhh, big deal. So the goalies can dive around! I remember back in the day where goalies didn't even wear masks! If they took a 100mph slapshot in the mouth, they'd stay in the game! Those are the goalies this game needs.]

152

TalkBack / Sega Touts NHL2K3 Goaltender System

« on: November 07, 2002, 07:52:11 AM »

Phhh, big deal.  So the goalies can dive around!  I remember back in the day where goalies didn't even wear masks!  If they took a 100mph slapshot in the mouth, they'd stay in the game!  Those are the goalies this game needs.

SEGA SPORTS NHL 2K3 DELIVERS NEW DEPTH WITH INNOVATIVE REACTIVE GOALIE POSITIONING

New Goalie System Makes Players' Abilities More True to Life; NHL 2K3 Offers Other Notable Industry "Firsts"

SAN FRANCISCO - (November 7, 2002) - SEGA® of America, Inc. announced today a hat-trick of innovative game features for "SEGA Sports™ NHL® 2K3" that will send video game pucks to the back of the net.  Hitting store shelves next week for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, followed soon after by the launch on the Xbox™ video game system from Microsoft® and the Nintendo GameCube™, "SEGA Sports NHL 2K3" is revolutionizing the way hockey is played with new features not found in other hockey video games.

With an all-new goalie system called Reactive Goalie Positioning, "SEGA Sports NHL 2K3" allows goaltenders to react to slap shots, wristers, one-timers and deflections with all the moves and abilities of their real-life counterparts.  While other hockey games feature goalies without specific player attributes, who attempt saves with limited movements, "SEGA Sports NHL 2K3" shows goalies playing the position as it is meant to be played.  In "NHL 2K3," goalies can move side-to-side, and from dive to save, without ever having to return to a center or idle position, allowing them to make save upon save with the most realistic goalie maneuvers of any hockey video game.

"The days of static goalies with limited and unrealistic movements are over," says Greg Thomas, president of Visual Concepts Entertainment, a SEGA development studio.  "Goalies use every limb to try and stop pucks from going to the back of the net. That is how the game of hockey is played, so that's exactly how we want 'NHL 2K3' to be played."

Also new in "SEGA Sports NHL 2K3" is Complete Lines Control.  Gone are the days of flipping back to the menu to set offensive and defensive strategies. Now gamers have the ability to rotate offensive, defensive, power play and penalty kill lines independently and set strategies for each of these lines on the fly.

Two other video hockey game firsts are featured in "SEGA Sports NHL 2K3," including new Board Pinning, where gamers can battle it out for the puck up against the boards.  With the ability to pin players against the boards and dig for the puck with multiple control options, "grinding for the puck" has taken on a whole new meaning.

[Alas, this isn't about our favorite NES light gun, but zapping bugs is still high on our favorite things to-do list.]

153

TalkBack / (No subject)

« on: November 06, 2002, 07:43:31 AM »

Alas, this isn't about our favorite NES light gun, but zapping bugs is still high on our favorite things to-do list.

Infogrames Delivers Electrifying Fun as Zapper™ Ships For All Next- Generation Systems

One Wicked Cricket is Available for the Nintendo GameCube™, PlayStation®2, Xbox™, Windows® PC and Game Boy® Advance

 BEVERLY, Mass., Nov. 6 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Infogrames, Inc. kicks it into high gear with its new interactive adventure game, Zapper™, shipping this week for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, the Xbox™ video game system from Microsoft, Game Boy® Advance, Nintendo GameCube™ video game system and Windows® PCs. Follow the adventures of the tenacious cricket as he faces obstacles and dangers on a quest to rescue his brother from the evil Magpie Queen.

Zapper's unique weaponry, the zap, is a powerful electrical charge which he can send from his antennae, eliminating or stunning enemies and gain access to the power-ups and treasures of the four interactive worlds he moves through. This zap, plus fast-footed skills and superior timing, will help Zapper conquer all worlds, the 18 levels that make them up and survive the final showdown with his brother's diabolical magpie kidnapper.

"Zapper combines an incredible character with classic action platform gameplay that will delight both hardcore game fans and casual game enthusiasts alike," said Steve Arthur, Director of Brand Marketing for Infogrames' Beverly studio. "Zapper is one of those rare games that is truly for everyone."

Zapper's extraordinary features include an intuitive control system with increasingly complex levels, multiplayer games for up to four players on all console platforms, hidden areas, bonus levels, interactive worlds from Zapper's garden home to ghost towns, as well as the final confrontation at Maggie's nuclear power plant lair.

Developed by Blitz Games, Inc., Zapper is rated "E" for Everyone, and carries an approximate retail price of $39.99 for PlayStation 2, GameCube and Xbox, $19.99 for PC and $34.99 on Game Boy Advance. For additional information regarding this title, visit www.onewickedcricket.com.

[Now playing THPS4 in your head will be that much easier!]

154

TalkBack / (No subject)

« on: October 16, 2002, 10:56:08 PM »

Now playing THPS4 in your head will be that much easier!

ACTIVISION ANNOUNCES EXPLOSIVE SOUNDTRACK FOR TONY HAWK’S PRO SKATER™ 4

Santa Monica, CA – October 16, 2002 – Thirty-five tracks of high-octane music will fuel big air tricks in Activision, Inc.’s (Nasdaq: ATVI) Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater™ 4, the sequel to the #1 action sports video game of 2001. The game, which allows players to experience the ultimate skating challenge, features tracks from rock royalty and hot new artists. Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 4 will be available October 23, 2002 on the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, the Xbox™ video game system from Microsoft, Nintendo GameCube™, PlayStation® game console and Game Boy® Advance. Following is a list of artists and tracks:

System of a Down – “Shimmy”

The Offspring – “Blackball”

AC/DC – “TNT”

Sex Pistols – “Anarchy in the UK”

Run–DMC – “My Adidas”

The Cult – “Bad Fun”  

N.W.A. – “Express Yourself”

De La Soul – “Oodles of O’s”

Public Enemy – “By The Time I Get To Arizona”

Iron Maiden – “The Number of the Beast”  

The Distillers – “Seneca Falls”

Gangstarr – “Mass Appeal”

Goldfinger – “Spokesman”

Agent Orange – “Bloodstains”

Less Than Jake – “All My Best Friends Are Metalheads”

Flogging Molly – “Drunken Lullabies”

Rocket from the Crypt – “Savoir Faire”

Aesop Rock – “Labor”

Avail – “Simple Song”

Bouncing Souls – “Manthem”

Delinquent Habits – “House of the Rising Drum”

Eyedea & Abilities – “Big Shots”

The Faction – “Skate and Destroy”  

Haiku D’Etat – “Non Compos Mentis”

Hot Water Music – “Freightliner”

JFA – “Beach Blanket Bongout”

Lootpack – “Whenimondamic”

Nebula – “Giant”

Toy Dolls – “Dig That Groove Baby”

US Bombs – “Yer Country”

Zeke – “Death Alley”

Muskabeatz – “I’m a Star” (featuring Grandmaster Melle Mel)

Muskabeatz – “Versus of Doom” (featuring Jeru the Damaja)

Muskabeatz – “Bodyrock” (featuring Biz Markie)

Jai Plus – “Bad Dreams”

Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 4 lets players take on the role of renowned skateboarder Tony Hawk and 13 other athletes as they skate through enormous free roaming levels, choose from 190 progressively harder goals and build their skills to perform 14 of the greatest skateboarding stunts of all time. The game’s new free-roaming career mode allows players to earn respect and the chance to take on all new pro goals by conquering a skater-specific Pro Challenge based on each skater’s personal history. The next-generation console versions of Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 4 are rated “T” (Teen - Blood, Comic Mischief, Mild Lyrics, Suggestive Themes), the PlayStation game console title is rated “E” (Everyone – Mild Lyrics, Mild Violence) and the Game Boy Advance game is rated “E” (Everyone – Animated Blood) by the ESRB.

[Europeans will soon get their hands on the sleeper hit Godzilla: Destroy All Monsters Melee.]

155

TalkBack / (No subject)

« on: October 16, 2002, 05:27:39 AM »

Europeans will soon get their hands on the sleeper hit Godzilla: Destroy All Monsters Melee.

INFOGRAMES SHIPS MONSTER TITLE

Godzilla®: Destroy All Monsters Melee ships for Nintendo GameCube.

London September 16 2002 - Infogrames Europe, a leading global publisher of interactive entertainment software, is about to ship its new title under the highly successful Atari® brand - Godzilla®: Destroy All Monsters Melee for GameCube.

Godzilla: Destroy All Monsters Melee is a one to four player game based upon the successful Godzilla® movies created by Toho Co Ltd. and Sony Pictures Consumer Products. This is the first next generation game in the Godzilla universe, and has been developed by Pipeworks Studio in Portland, Oregon, USA.  

The storyline for the game veers away from the usual Godzilla stories most fans are familiar with, and features the Vorttak, a malevolent alien race that has descended on Earth intent on pirating its resources and enslaving humanity. From their armada of saucer ships, the Vorttak seize control of Earth's monsters through mind control rays and order them to attack major cities around the world in an attempt to bring humankind to its knees. They will not be satisfied until the monsters have reduced all of Earth's major cities to rubble.

Gamers control a monster that has managed to snap out of the Vorttak mind control and must defend Earth by defeating the other monsters and destroying the alien ships. If players manage to defeat all of the Earth monsters, the aliens take it personally and unleash their own space-spawn monsters into the battle areas. And that's not all, because the Vorttak have been developing their most powerful weapon yet - the Mechagodzilla(tm). And they need the atomic rage essence of the most powerful monster on Earth to be a part of their dastardly plan...

In this adventure mode, gamers choose their Godzilla character from the three initially available (a further nine can be unlocked as the gameplay progresses) and battle all the other famous Toho characters to take control of the cities and be crowned the king of the monsters. These epic battles take place on famous streets around the world, including those of San Francisco, Seattle and Tokyo, as well as the notorious Monster Island. All locations are highly detailed and include working traffic lights, neon signs and moving cars to bring the atmosphere of each city to life. Additional arenas can be earned and unlocked throughout.

While the game focuses on arcade fighting, additional strategic elements can be employed by involving the humans populating the cities. As each monster moves though a city, leaving a path of destruction in its wake, the human military attacks with tanks, helicopters, hover jets and laser cannons. Players can use these forces in their attacks on opponents by enticing the military to the scene and throwing their opponent into a nearby building. The military on the scene will then attack the opposing monster in the belief that they have attacked the building. Sneaky. And very effective.  

As well as the single player adventure mode, players can fight it out in multi-player mega-monster mayhem, with up to four players battling each other on-screen at the same time. Players can choose from eight of the most famous monsters of all time for thumb-bruising button bashing like they've never experienced before. Each monster has a huge array of special fighting moves and weapons, including laser rays and atomic breath, with wicked combinations to make heads, and tails, spin. Other elements in the environments can also cause devastating damage, as monsters are hurt when thrown into buildings, cliffs and electrified boundaries.

Pascale Vermeerbergen, European Marketing Director for Mass Market Games at Infogrames Europe commented, "Godzilla is pure, exciting GameCube fun. The animation style recreates the style and atmosphere of the Toho movies perfectly. It will jog many memories for older gamers, as it features the same monsters as the popular movies. And with gameplay as simple or as complicated as gamers wish to make it, we are certain it will have fans and new players queuing to play."  

Godzilla will be available in stores 25th October 2002. Get ready for action!

[Infogrames' surfing game is getting a major update for Nintendo's platform.]

156

TalkBack / TransWorld Surf on GameCube

« on: October 15, 2002, 12:41:43 PM »

Infogrames' surfing game is getting a major update for Nintendo's platform.

ATARI ANNOUNCES SPRING 2003 RELEASE OF TRANSWORLD SURF: NEXT WAVE FOR THE NINTENDO GAMECUBE
LOS ANGELES - Oct. 15, 2002 -  Atari is bringing the franchise that redefined the surfing video game genre, TransWorld Surf, to the NintendoGameCubeT this spring with the release of a completely reinvented edition of the game: TransWorld Surf:T Next Wave.  The GameCube title improves upon and follows up TransWorld Surf for PlayStation® 2 and Xbox, which has been hailed as "the best surfing title ever."

"The TransWorld Surf franchise broke new ground in the action sports genre with its incredible graphics and lifelike gameplay and wave physics," said Jean-Philippe Agati, senior vice president and head of Infogrames, Inc.'s Los Angeles studio.  "TransWorld Surf: Next Wave has been rebuilt from the ground using what we learned from the first two editions.  The team at Angel is pushing the graphics even further, incorporating the gameplay and control enhancements developed for the PlayStation 2 and throwing in some new surprises and features that will continue the legacy of the franchise as the best surfing game available."

Working from start to finish with TransWorld Media, publisher of the world's most popular action sports publications, provided access to the world's best professional surfers, the most sought-after surfing event locations and authentically licensed gear.  With new hidden characters and wetsuits , a surf shop and new levels like Antarctica, TransWorld Surf: Next Wave brings gamers deeper into the world of professional surfing than anything before it.

Players assume the identity of one of 13 top-ranked surfers like Taj Burrow, Andy Irons, Shane Dorian, and many more to compete in an eleven-city tour sponsored by TransWorld Surf magazine.  Locations include Pipeline (Hawaii), Teahupoo (Tahiti), Kirra Point (Australia), Todos Santos (Mexico) and the all new location, Antarctica, renowned for its frigid water and perilous ice caves.  At each location, surfers must successfully complete a basic photo shoot before moving on to the competition.  They will also face goal challenges such as completing trick combinations or freeing trapped dolphins from fishing nets.

TransWorld Surf: Next Wave features seven unique gameplay modes, including single-player ProTour, Free Surf and Single Session modes, as well as two-person multiplayer Free Surf, Competition, King of the Wave and Shark Attack mode.  Shark Attack plays like "Tag" on the ocean -- the ultimate goal is to avoid being "it" longer than the other surfers.  The game starts when all surfers pull their first trick.  The scores for that trick are compared, and the surfer with the lowest score wipes out and becomes the "shark."  At the end of the event, the surfer with the least amount of time as the shark wins.

In all gameplay modes, players interact with other surfers, animals and objects including porpoises, bodyboarders, boats and more.  TransWorld Surf: Next Wave also features the Karma Meter, which tracks whether players interact with objects and people politely, leading to good karma, or rudely, leading to bad karma.   Keeping the meter high in the "Good Karma" area will lead to a better ride - other surfers will keep clear of the player's path and the sharks in the surf will not attack.

Developed by the incredibly talented minds -- and hardcore surfers -- at the San Diego-based Angel Studios, TransWorld Surf: Next Wave features the most groundbreaking water technology ever seen in a video game.  TransWorld Surf: Next Wave for Nintendo Gamecube will be released in Spring 2003.

[Three top retailers, including Wal-Mart, on Monday said they had refused to carry the video game billed as the first major release to feature full-action nudity and with prostitutes and pimps as major characters.]

157

TalkBack / Retailers Shun 'BMX XXX'

« on: October 14, 2002, 03:06:30 PM »

Three top retailers, including Wal-Mart, on Monday said they had refused to carry the video game billed as the first major release to feature full-action nudity and with prostitutes and pimps as major characters.

Retailers Shun New Acclaim 'XXX' Game

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - Three of the nation's top retailers, including Wal Mart, on Monday said they had refused to carry a new video game billed as the first major release to feature full-action nudity and with prostitutes and pimps as major characters.

Using the tagline "Keep it Dirty," video game publisher Acclaim Entertainment Inc. is gearing up for the Nov. 19 launch of "BMX XXX," a game that also features copulating pink poodles and a variety of racing bike stunts.

But major retailers Wal-Mart Stores Inc., Toys R Us Inc. and KB Toys all said they would not carry the game, a potential blow for the game's exposure.

"We're not going to carry any software with any vulgarity or nudity -- we're just not going to do it," Wal-Mart spokesman Tom Williams told Reuters.

However, Best Buy Co. Inc. said it intended to sell a censored version of the game for Sony's PlayStation 2.

Acclaim Chief Executive Gregory Fischbach told Reuters the critics were being unfair and missing the point of the game, which he said was intended as a kind of spoof along the lines of movie comedies such as "Austin Powers" and "Airplane."

A promotional video clip first bills "BMX XXX" as a "game of cultural sophistication and artistic aspiration" then launches into a hard-rocking montage of clips, including bike tricks and shots of strippers in action. The video ends with the admonition: "We're going to hell for this and you're all coming with us."

"I still believe that we'll get substantially full distribution in the United States," Fischbach said. "I don't really think it goes much further than some other video games on the marketplace."

He added, "I think the game stands on its own and I think that... we have no intent to change the content of the game."

Glen Cove, New York-based Acclaim wants the title to be a hit and reverse its sliding fortunes the way that "Grand Theft Auto 3" did for Take-Two Interactive Software Inc..

"GTA 3," which like "BMX" carries a "Mature" rating from the Entertainment Software Review Board, featured controversial scenes of violence but went on to become the top-selling video game of 2001.

While "GTA 3" was exclusive to Sony Corp.'s PlayStation 2, Acclaim has a broader strategy for "BMX," with releases planned for the PS2, Microsoft Corp.'s Xbox and Nintendo Co. Ltd.'s GameCube.  

Fischbach said there has been no decision yet on changes to the Sony version, though he said if Sony asked for changes Acclaim would make them. He added that any changes would not affect the game's release date.  

A Nintendo spokeswoman said the company had not asked for any changes for the GameCube version. A Microsoft spokeswoman was not immediately available for comment.  

Since Oct. 1, shares in Acclaim have gained nearly 12 percent, the best performance among the listed U.S. video game publishers. Even so, the stock, which rose 13-fold in 2001, is off nearly 77 percent this year and down 41 percent since a Sept. 19 profit warning.  

That warning jarred investors at a time when most video game companies expect to post record profits and sales. Acclaim warned of a fiscal fourth-quarter loss of up to 13 cents, compared with the 13-cent profit analysts polled by Thomson First Call had on average had expected. As a result, many analysts cut their ratings and estimates on the stock.  

Besides "BMX," Acclaim had bet its holiday season on the games "Turok: Evolution," "Aggressive Inline" and "Vexx." But both "Turok" and "Inline" were major sales disappointments, and Vexx has been postponed into 2003.  

"BMX XXX" will also compete with "Grand Theft Auto: Vice City," the follow-on to "GTA 3" and an expected top seller in its own right. The marketing for "Vice City" has also relied heavily on images of near-naked women and thuggish men.  

"What we're doing here is funny," Fischbach said. "The people that we're selling to are the people who bought 'Grand Theft Auto."'

[Three of the nation's top retailers, including Wal Mart, on Monday said they had refused to carry the video game billed as the first major release to feature full-action nudity and with prostitutes and pimps as major characters.]

158

TalkBack / Retailers Shun 'BMX XXX'

« on: October 14, 2002, 03:06:30 PM »

Three of the nation's top retailers, including Wal Mart, on Monday said they had refused to carry the video game billed as the first major release to feature full-action nudity and with prostitutes and pimps as major characters.

Retailers Shun New Acclaim 'XXX' Game

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - Three of the nation's top retailers, including Wal Mart, on Monday said they had refused to carry a new video game billed as the first major release to feature full-action nudity and with prostitutes and pimps as major characters.

Using the tagline "Keep it Dirty," video game publisher Acclaim Entertainment Inc. is gearing up for the Nov. 19 launch of "BMX XXX," a game that also features copulating pink poodles and a variety of racing bike stunts.

But major retailers Wal-Mart Stores Inc., Toys R Us Inc. and KB Toys all said they would not carry the game, a potential blow for the game's exposure.

"We're not going to carry any software with any vulgarity or nudity -- we're just not going to do it," Wal-Mart spokesman Tom Williams told Reuters.

However, Best Buy Co. Inc. said it intended to sell a censored version of the game for Sony's PlayStation 2.

Acclaim Chief Executive Gregory Fischbach told Reuters the critics were being unfair and missing the point of the game, which he said was intended as a kind of spoof along the lines of movie comedies such as "Austin Powers" and "Airplane."

A promotional video clip first bills "BMX XXX" as a "game of cultural sophistication and artistic aspiration" then launches into a hard-rocking montage of clips, including bike tricks and shots of strippers in action. The video ends with the admonition: "We're going to hell for this and you're all coming with us."

"I still believe that we'll get substantially full distribution in the United States," Fischbach said. "I don't really think it goes much further than some other video games on the marketplace."

He added, "I think the game stands on its own and I think that... we have no intent to change the content of the game."

Glen Cove, New York-based Acclaim wants the title to be a hit and reverse its sliding fortunes the way that "Grand Theft Auto 3" did for Take-Two Interactive Software Inc..

"GTA 3," which like "BMX" carries a "Mature" rating from the Entertainment Software Review Board, featured controversial scenes of violence but went on to become the top-selling video game of 2001.

While "GTA 3" was exclusive to Sony Corp.'s PlayStation 2, Acclaim has a broader strategy for "BMX," with releases planned for the PS2, Microsoft Corp.'s Xbox and Nintendo Co. Ltd.'s GameCube.  

Fischbach said there has been no decision yet on changes to the Sony version, though he said if Sony asked for changes Acclaim would make them. He added that any changes would not affect the game's release date.  

A Nintendo spokeswoman said the company had not asked for any changes for the GameCube version. A Microsoft spokeswoman was not immediately available for comment.  

Since Oct. 1, shares in Acclaim have gained nearly 12 percent, the best performance among the listed U.S. video game publishers. Even so, the stock, which rose 13-fold in 2001, is off nearly 77 percent this year and down 41 percent since a Sept. 19 profit warning.  

That warning jarred investors at a time when most video game companies expect to post record profits and sales. Acclaim warned of a fiscal fourth-quarter loss of up to 13 cents, compared with the 13-cent profit analysts polled by Thomson First Call had on average had expected. As a result, many analysts cut their ratings and estimates on the stock.  

Besides "BMX," Acclaim had bet its holiday season on the games "Turok: Evolution," "Aggressive Inline" and "Vexx." But both "Turok" and "Inline" were major sales disappointments, and Vexx has been postponed into 2003.  

"BMX XXX" will also compete with "Grand Theft Auto: Vice City," the follow-on to "GTA 3" and an expected top seller in its own right. The marketing for "Vice City" has also relied heavily on images of near-naked women and thuggish men.  

"What we're doing here is funny," Fischbach said. "The people that we're selling to are the people who bought 'Grand Theft Auto."'

[Three of the nation's top retailers, including Wal Mart, on Monday said they had refused to carry the video game billed as the first major release to feature full-action nudity and with prostitutes and pimps as major characters.]

159

TalkBack / Retailers Shun 'BMX XXX'

« on: October 14, 2002, 03:06:30 PM »

Three of the nation's top retailers, including Wal Mart, on Monday said they had refused to carry the video game billed as the first major release to feature full-action nudity and with prostitutes and pimps as major characters.

Retailers Shun New Acclaim 'XXX' Game

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - Three of the nation's top retailers, including Wal Mart, on Monday said they had refused to carry a new video game billed as the first major release to feature full-action nudity and with prostitutes and pimps as major characters.

Using the tagline "Keep it Dirty," video game publisher Acclaim Entertainment Inc. is gearing up for the Nov. 19 launch of "BMX XXX," a game that also features copulating pink poodles and a variety of racing bike stunts.

But major retailers Wal-Mart Stores Inc., Toys R Us Inc. and KB Toys all said they would not carry the game, a potential blow for the game's exposure.

"We're not going to carry any software with any vulgarity or nudity -- we're just not going to do it," Wal-Mart spokesman Tom Williams told Reuters.

However, Best Buy Co. Inc. said it intended to sell a censored version of the game for Sony's PlayStation 2.

Acclaim Chief Executive Gregory Fischbach told Reuters the critics were being unfair and missing the point of the game, which he said was intended as a kind of spoof along the lines of movie comedies such as "Austin Powers" and "Airplane."

A promotional video clip first bills "BMX XXX" as a "game of cultural sophistication and artistic aspiration" then launches into a hard-rocking montage of clips, including bike tricks and shots of strippers in action. The video ends with the admonition: "We're going to hell for this and you're all coming with us."

"I still believe that we'll get substantially full distribution in the United States," Fischbach said. "I don't really think it goes much further than some other video games on the marketplace."

He added, "I think the game stands on its own and I think that... we have no intent to change the content of the game."

Glen Cove, New York-based Acclaim wants the title to be a hit and reverse its sliding fortunes the way that "Grand Theft Auto 3" did for Take-Two Interactive Software Inc..

"GTA 3," which like "BMX" carries a "Mature" rating from the Entertainment Software Review Board, featured controversial scenes of violence but went on to become the top-selling video game of 2001.

While "GTA 3" was exclusive to Sony Corp.'s PlayStation 2, Acclaim has a broader strategy for "BMX," with releases planned for the PS2, Microsoft Corp.'s Xbox and Nintendo Co. Ltd.'s GameCube.  

Fischbach said there has been no decision yet on changes to the Sony version, though he said if Sony asked for changes Acclaim would make them. He added that any changes would not affect the game's release date.  

A Nintendo spokeswoman said the company had not asked for any changes for the GameCube version. A Microsoft spokeswoman was not immediately available for comment.  

Since Oct. 1, shares in Acclaim have gained nearly 12 percent, the best performance among the listed U.S. video game publishers. Even so, the stock, which rose 13-fold in 2001, is off nearly 77 percent this year and down 41 percent since a Sept. 19 profit warning.  

That warning jarred investors at a time when most video game companies expect to post record profits and sales. Acclaim warned of a fiscal fourth-quarter loss of up to 13 cents, compared with the 13-cent profit analysts polled by Thomson First Call had on average had expected. As a result, many analysts cut their ratings and estimates on the stock.  

Besides "BMX," Acclaim had bet its holiday season on the games "Turok: Evolution," "Aggressive Inline" and "Vexx." But both "Turok" and "Inline" were major sales disappointments, and Vexx has been postponed into 2003.  

"BMX XXX" will also compete with "Grand Theft Auto: Vice City," the follow-on to "GTA 3" and an expected top seller in its own right. The marketing for "Vice City" has also relied heavily on images of near-naked women and thuggish men.  

"What we're doing here is funny," Fischbach said. "The people that we're selling to are the people who bought 'Grand Theft Auto."'

[Two exclusive tracks from big names to thump along while you play Defender. We told you about one before...find out who's the other....]

160

TalkBack / (No subject)

« on: October 09, 2002, 05:56:05 AM »

Two exclusive tracks from big names to thump along while you play Defender.  We told you about one before...find out who's the other....

-New 3-D Defender Blasts Off October 21 With Two Videogame Exclusive, High-Octane Songs From Top Bands

Metropolis Records' KMFDM and Black Black Records' Trigger Bring Intense Beats to New Version of Videogame Classic  

CHICAGO - Oct. 9, 2002 - Midway Games Inc. (NYSE:MWY), a leading software industry publisher and developer, announced today that Metropolis recording act - KMFDM - and Black Black recording act - Trigger - have provided videogame-exclusive songs for Defender(R), an all-new 3-D version of the popular 1980s arcade classic. Defender is currently in development and scheduled to ship October 21, 2002, for the PlayStation(R) 2 computer entertainment system, with releases for the Xbox(TM) video game system from Microsoft, Nintendo GameCube(TM) and Game Boy(R) Advance to follow in November 2002.

"The musical styles of both KMFDM and Trigger are a perfect match for the new 3-D version of Defender," said Helene Sheeler, vice president of marketing, Midway. "The groups' hard, pulsating rhythms lend an even more realistic feel to the intense, combat-action and strategic gameplay experienced while defending and protecting the human race from an alien invasion."

KMFDM

Rhythmic sensation KMFDM contributed a track entitled "Defender," a remake of Richard Strauss's "Also Sprach Zarathustra," known for its prominence as the theme song from the 1968 movie 2001: A Space Odyssey. Two versions of the song - the "Club Mix" and the "Ominous Mix"- are also available from Metropolis records in the game.

The German industrial rock band formed in 1984 as a project of Sascha Konietzko (programming/bass/vocals) and En Esch (vocals/guitar), which enabled them to participate in a Paris art exhibition on the use of industrial components for instruments. With their unique cartoon cover art, energetic live shows and enigmatic name, KMFDM drew a large following by artfully incorporating lots of explosive, metallic elements into the mix. In 2002, KMFDM signed with Metropolis Records and have just released their latest album, entitled ATTAK. A continuation and clear progression of past KMFDM projects, ATTAK, along with the new single BOOTS (a cover of the Nancy Sinatra classic), exhibits KMFDM at its glorious best while breaking into new dimensions in the process. Cohesive, catchy hooks and contagious beats will captivate minds and make bodies move.

"What better fit for a 1980s videogame remake than with a band that was formed during that time and is newly relaunched, as well?" said En Esch, frontman of KMFDM. "We were really honored to be asked by Midway to create a remake of `Also Sprach Zarathustra' for Defender and can't wait to play the new 3-D version at home and on the road."

Trigger

Also contributing to Defender is electronica artist Trigger with the original track "Vaunt." Trigger's sound is an alloy of beats, timbres and melodies forged into heavy hooks, hypnotic beats and vintage synths blended to create a sound that is at once familiar and uniquely original.

A two-piece combo inspired by the sounds of The Crystal Method, Propellerheads and B.T., Trigger was formed by Todd Crumn and Janed Todd in 1997 while both attended the University of California, Berkley. The combined talents of the pair's first projects included King of Techno, a voiceless experimental "indie" band. They quickly discovered their talents dovetailed to create a full, beat-driven sound that was absent in modern electronica.

Defender

An intense combat-action flying experience, Defender offers players the ultimate in next-generation action and strategy. Players defend and protect the human race from an alien invasion as they assume the controls of next-generation combat-ready Defender ships. Battling an onslaught of vicious aliens, players strategically pilot their ship through more than 20 treacherous missions spanning the solar system -- executing dynamic tactical maneuvers such as barrel rolls, 360-degree loops and spinning reversals to evade the enemy.

Featuring a new view perspective with a fully 3-D, third-person chase camera, Defender drops players into the explosive action of an alien invasion where they must combine strategic elements with speed, control and firepower to outwit the enemy. Ship upgrades are also available with various power-ups including shields, advanced weapons and hyperspace technology. Aliens can be taken head-on in single-player campaign mode or defeated with a friend in the two-player, cooperative campaign mode as you deploy an arsenal of weapons such as a grenade launcher, fast-lock missile launcher, fireball launcher and gas launcher.

The Game Boy Advance version of Defender will not have music content.

For more information about Midway Games and Defender visit www.defender.midway.com.

[Harry Potter console accessories coming this winter! Anyone up for some Quidditch?]

161

TalkBack / (No subject)

« on: October 01, 2002, 08:57:47 AM »

Harry Potter console accessories coming this winter!  Anyone up for some Quidditch?

THE MAGIC OF HARRY POTTERTM IS CAPTURED IN ACCESSORIES FOR GAMECUBE, GAME BOY ADVANCE & PLAYSTATION SYSTEMS

Thrustmaster to produce Harry Potter and the Chamber of SecretsTM Video Game Console Accessories

SURREY - 1st October 2002 - Under its license agreement with Warner Bros Consumer Products, Thrustmaster announces the launch of its range of video game console accessories based on Harry Potter's magical world. The products will be released from the end of September 2002, in Europe, the Middle East and Africa, prior to the highly anticipated second film - Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.

"The fun, excitement and magic from Harry Potter's world in the second book and movie - Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, have been captured in gamers' favorite accessories for Game Boy AdvanceTM, Game Boy ColorTM, GameCubeTM, PSoneTM and PlayStationTM2" says Jean-Michel Detoc, Thrustmaster's General Manager. "Every fan of the young wizard and every member of the family will be delighted by the extension of the magical experience into this enchanting range".

Harry Potter accessories for NintendoTM Game Boy AdvanceTM & Game Boy ColorTM

For their Game Boy AdvanceTM console, globetrotting Harry Potter fans will be able to enjoy a full range of pouches and bags, embroidered with characters and devices from Harry's universe: the Console case - a small and convenient hard cased pouch-, the Console Bag - a polyester pouch for carrying consoles, cartridges and main accessories, and the Move n' Play Bag - a cross-over bag for carrying all their Game Boy gear.

Three accessory sets will also be available with plenty of devices based on this magical world: the QuidditchTM Pack will enable GBA gamers to enter the famous QuidditchTM game, including the Console bag, a flexible light, a 2-player link cable with hub, a rechargeable battery, an AC adapter and a cartridge case - all dedicated to Snitch and Nimbus 2000TM. The Power pack will bring you to the forbidden forest with Harry and Ron, including an amazing decorative console sticker, a desktop charger, a rechargeable battery and an AC adapter. These packs will be available in purple and black.

The set of 3 decorative console stickers will offer GBA gamers the chance to personalize their consoles with major scenes and characters from the second movie.

Game Boy ColorTM gamers will also have a chance to improve their gaming skills with the Essential pack, which includes a console pouch, a rechargeable battery, an AC adapter, a light magnifier and a link cable.

Harry PotterTM accessories for Nintendo GameCubeTM

Thrustmaster will also release a complete range of accessories centered on Harry Potter. Based on advanced printing technology, the Analog gamepad will enable you to relive Harry, Ron, Hermione and HedwigTM's universe. It will be sold either with a tuning cover, which will liven up the top of the GameCube console, or with a 59-block memory card bearing Harry's likeness.  

Essential devices for gamers, three other 59-block memory cards will also be launched. Displaying key scenes and characters these memory cards are true collector's items: 2 x 59-block memory card packs - Harry and Professor Albus DumbledoreTM -, Memory card 59 blocks & Tuning cover - scene of the Polyjuice potionTM.  

Featuring scenes from the movie, the Move n' Play Bag for Gamecube has been specially designed to carry the entire GameCube system and Harry Potter accessories. With padded compartments, it can also be carried in three different ways (by its handles, shoulder straps or carrying straps).  

Harry Potter accessories for PlayStationTM systems

PSoneTM owners will also be able to live out the Harry Potter world of wizardry, thanks to these fantastic sets of accessories, all produced by new and advanced printing technology. Brand new sets of memory cards, displaying pictures of characters or elements from the movie will satisfy all collector enthusiasts. One set of two 1Mb memory cards and two sets of three 1Mb memory cards will be on sale. The Analog gamepad will also come with an extra memory card. Superb looking, it includes not only Harry's universe but also all the technical features belonging to the official gamepad for PSoneT.

The Full analog gamepad for PlayStationTM2, featuring the astonishing scene of the flying car, will be released alone or with a unique Games holder, enabling storage of up to 20 CD games.

J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series has been published in 200 countries and in 47 languages with more than 124 million books in circulation worlwide. The first movie rocketed up box office sales and the second movie, to be released in Europe from mid-November 2002, is already highly anticipated by fans of all ages!

[So who actually had the longest tongue? Possibly one of the most disturbing pictures you will see today...]

162

TalkBack / (No subject)

« on: September 28, 2002, 11:43:06 AM »

So who actually had the longest tongue?  Possibly one of the most disturbing pictures you will see today...

Tongue-Gifted Test Talents in Lick-Off Competition

Nintendo's Yoshi Finds Nation's Most Prolific Tongue-Slinger in Lizard Lick

LIZARD LICK, N.C.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sept. 28, 2002--Today, hundreds of local residents of Lizard Lick vied for victory in the world's first "Clash of the Tongues" competition.

The competition was lead by Yoshi(R), the video game industry's most famous long-tongued dinosaur. Yoshi realized his life-long wish to join his distant Lizard Lick cousins and their talented tongues in celebration of the release of his newest game, Yoshi's Island(TM): Super Mario(R) Advance 3 for Game Boy(R) Advance.

"I've never been so proud to see so many tired but such exceptionally gifted tongues," explained Yoshi, as he paused from snatching random fruit with his tongue from a nearby vendor. "From long tongues to eating jalapeno peppers straight out of the jar to licking live lizards, I think I've seen it all!"

Putting their tongues to the test, 30 contestants attempted to 'lick' the competition in front of a judges' panel in the hopes of achieving "The Lengthiest Lick," (measured for length) "The Most Imaginative Lick," (clever trick with the tongue) "The Most Daring Lick," (an act of bravery using the tongue) and "The Ultimate Licker."

The "Lengthiest Lick" went to Adam Saunders with an astonishing 2.75" lick. The most "Imaginative Lick" was demonstrated by Will Hare, who stole the show by actually being able to fork and fold his tongue. By far, the "Most Daring Lick" was performed by Joey Woods, who ate canned lizard with hot sauce ... on his wife's armpit with no hesitation. Finally, "The Ultimate Licker" went to Adam Saunders for an amazing feat of tongue ingenuity in a tongue-twister showdown.

To honor Yoshi's wish, the town's mayor, Charles Wood, proclaimed today as Lizard Lick's official `Yoshi Day,' honoring the legendary character, Yoshi, and the day's extraordinary events.

In Yoshi's Island: Super Mario Advance 3, Baby Mario is separated from his brother in a kidnapping attempt but Yoshi guides him over the island's perilous landscape and around devious traps to get Baby Mario back to where he belongs. Players will master Yoshi's moves, including: jumping, stomping, pounding the ground, laying eggs, eating enemies, and throwing eggs using a targeted egg-throwing system. Yoshi's Island: Super Mario Advance 3, only for Game Boy Advance, is available now for an MSRP of $34.95.

Since its June 11, 2001 launch, Game Boy Advance has sold more than 7.6 million units in North America, making it the fastest-selling video game hardware in history. Its current game library stretches more than 200 titles, with more than 300 by end of the year.

As the worldwide leader and innovator in the creation of interactive entertainment, Nintendo Co., Ltd., of Kyoto, Japan, manufactures and markets hardware and software for its popular home video game systems. The systems include Game Boy(R), Nintendo(R) 64, Game Boy Advance and NINTENDO GAMECUBE. Since the release of its first home video game system in 1983, Nintendo has sold more than 1.6 billion video games worldwide, creating enduring industry icons such as Mario(TM) and Donkey Kong(R) and launching such franchises as Zelda(TM) and Pokemon(R). As a wholly owned subsidiary, Nintendo of America Inc., based in Redmond, Wash., serves as headquarters for Nintendo's operations in the Western Hemisphere. For more information about Game Boy Advance or any other Nintendo product visit the company's Web sites, www.nintendo.com or www.gameboyadvance.com.

[Bubble Bobble - Old and New gets picked up by Empire. It's getting out of Japan, and Bubble Bobble fans are going crazy!]

163

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« on: September 26, 2002, 06:19:11 AM »

Bubble Bobble - Old and New gets picked up by Empire.  It's getting out of Japan, and Bubble Bobble fans are going crazy!

Empire signs games rights to 'Bubble Bobble - Old and New' for Game Boy Advance ("GBA")

Empire Interactive plc, a leading AIM listed computer games developer and publisher, today announced it had signed the publishing rights to the classic GBA title, 'Bubble Bobble - Old and New'.  

The game will closely follow the original Bubble Bobble Arcade classic, which burst into the gaming archives in 1986. 'Old and New' will be splicing together two gaming generations and will employ the same graphics and gameplay structure as the original. In addition to this, it will also take inspiration from the sequel, 'Rainbow Islands' (1989).  

Developed by Taito, based in Japan; developers of, Space Invaders and Super Bust-A-Move and many more titles make up their official development portfolio.  

Bubble Bobble 'Old and New' will be published by Empire in Q4 2002/H1 2003 exclusively for the GBA platform.  

Ian Higgins, CEO of Empire said about the licensing deal,  "Bubble Bobble is a classic game that has been successful on many different platforms over the years. The game is an ideal title for the GBA format and we are delighted to be working with Taito on this franchise."

[Summoner 2 is an Adventure RPG, due for release on GameCube in early 2003.]

164

TalkBack / Summoner 2 announced for GameCube

« on: September 23, 2002, 10:30:05 AM »

Summoner 2 is an Adventure RPG, due for release on GameCube in early 2003.

THQ and Volition Announce Summoner 2 for Nintendo® Gamecube™

CALABASAS HILLS, Calif. – September 23, 2002 – THQ Inc. (NASDAQ NMS: THQI) today announced the release of its highly anticipated action, role-playing title,  Summoner 2 for the PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system. Summoner 2 is the sequel to one of the PlayStation 2’s top-selling launch titles, Summoner. Developed by Volition, creators of Red Faction®, Summoner 2 features an enhanced game engine, stunning graphics, an intense real-time combat system and a compelling storyline. Summoner 2 for PlayStation 2 is available now at retail stores nationwide.

THQ and Volition also announced that a Nintendo Gamecube version of Summoner 2 is currently in development and will be available in early 2003. Summoner 2 for Gamecube is being developed by Cranky Pants Games™, THQ’s newest game development studio located in Seattle, Washington.  

“Summoner 2 is an original adventure that delivers a vast role-playing experience with a multitude of unique characters, fantastic environments and refined gameplay,” said Mike Kulas, president, Volition. “We feel that Summoner 2 is one of the most complete RPG’s for the PlayStation 2 and improves upon the original game in every facet.”

Summoner 2 has been receiving praise from both the videogame community and the mainstream press:  “…Summoner 2 is well on its way to being one of those ‘must-play’ games coming out this fall.” - GameSpy

 The Bottom Line: 9 out of 10  "As it stands, Summoner 2 easily reigns as the best dungeon crawler on console, and one of the most engrossing RPGs around.”  - Game Informer

 Fun Factor: 4 out of 5   “…one of the most memorable, unique RPGs to ever grace the PS2.” - GamePro

About Summoner 2    In Summoner 2, players guide Maia, Queen of the Halassar, and a host of unique party members through an original fantasy universe inspired by literature, folklore and mythology. Players travel to more than 30 exotic and imaginative locales, from the tropical isle of Teomura to the bizarre and dreamlike City of Masks. Players may fully customize their party with their own set of skills and spells. Summoner 2 features a complex, character-driven storyline, hundreds of skills and spells, and an all new, real-time combat system that breaks the mold for traditional RPGs. Summoner 2 is available now for PlayStation 2 and coming to Nintendo Gamecube in early 2003.

For more information, artwork and to view weekly updates on the game’s development please visit www.summoner2.com.

[What GameCube and Game Boy Advance games have been announced to be shown at the Fall 2002 Tokyo Game Show? We break down the list.]

165

TalkBack / (No subject)

« on: September 15, 2002, 09:29:05 AM »

What GameCube and Game Boy Advance games have been announced to be shown at the Fall 2002 Tokyo Game Show?  We break down the list.

The Fall 2002 Tokyo Game Show kicks off this week, and we've got a list of what's so-far confirmed to be shown on GameCube and Game Boy Advance.  

                                                                                                                                                                                               

Platform	The number of titles
Playstation 2	71
Game Boy Advance	53
Playstation	50
PC/Mac	47
Nintendo GameCube	29
Cellular phone	27
Xbox	18
Dreamcast	2
Others	36

                                                                                                                                                                                                           

Genre	The         number of titles
Action	66
RPG	42
Shooter	27
Sports	26
Adventure	21
Puzzle	21
Simulation	18
Racing	13
Others	111

 

Tecmo:

 

Game Boy Advance
  Monster Farm Advance 2

 

Sega:

 

Game Boy Advance
  Sega Rally
  Sonic Advance 2

 

GameCube
  Eternal Arcadia Legend
  Grand Heat (Burnout)
  Phantasy Star Online Episode 1 & 2
  Sonic Mega Collection
  Super Monkey Ball 2

 

Capcom:

 

Game Boy Advance
  Rockman EXE 3
 
  GameCube
  Biohazard 0
  Mega Man .EXE Transmission

 

Game Boy Advance
  Groove Adventure Rave 2

 

Square:

 

Game Boy Advance:
  Final Fantasy Tactics Advance
  Chocobo title

 

GameCube:
  Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles
 
  Take note, Nintendo still isn't presenting any first party titles this   year.  This list will be updated through out the week, so keep checking   back!
 

[In a recent interview, Shigeru Miyamoto talked about online games and two new Mario and Zelda games.]

166

TalkBack / Miyamoto talks about Nintendo's plans

« on: September 14, 2002, 05:13:07 AM »

In a recent interview, Shigeru Miyamoto talked about online games and two new Mario and Zelda games.

In an interview recently conducted with Nintendo's Shigeru Miyamoto, some of the company's future plans were revealed.

According to this interview, Nintendo is actually quite serious about online gaming. They supposedly have a title in development, at Nintendo of Japan, set to launch some time after Phantasy Star Online Episodes I & II. The title is apparently not a fantasy title.

Miyamoto said he and his team are working as hard as they can on the new Zelda title and are trying to have it out by the holidays of 2002 for Japan. He also mentioned that they are trying to release it in early 2003 in Europe as well as America. Also, the GBA version of Zelda is coming along quite well and will link up to the GameCube version. There will be several capabilities available with the link, but none were revealed.

The most important part of the interview came when Miyamoto guaranteed that there would be at least one more installment of both the Mario and Zelda franchises on the GameCube, and that each of these titles will take their series in a new direction.

Finally, Miyamoto mentioned that in 2002 Nintendo is hitting hard with their franchise characters and that 2003 will be a year of several new characters and original games.

[Dying to get your hands on Capcom’s RE0 Japanese Demo forsuper cheap? How about free? Our partners in crime Lan Kweican hook you up.]

167

TalkBack / Exclusive PGC RE0 Demo offer!

« on: September 06, 2002, 06:55:25 AM »

Dying to get your hands on Capcom’s RE0 Japanese Demo for
super cheap?  How about free? 
Our partners in crime Lan Kwei
can hook you up.

Lan Kwei just got a pile of the Resident Evil 0 Japanese demo discs and are giving Planet GameCube readers a couple special deals.

Realize, you will need either a modified US GameCube or Japanese GameCube (or if you’re Wordalicious, a Panasonic Q) to play this demo.

If you order now, you can pick up the Resident Evil 0 demo for a measly $15.  Shipping internationally costs around five bucks.  So, for 20 bucks, you’re good to go.

If you don’t have an import GameCube or are in the market for one, or you're looking for one of the shiny new Panasonic Qs, Lan Kwei will give you the RE0 demo for FREE if you order a GameCube or a Q from them.  Free juice is always nice. 

So how does it all work?

1. Order either the RE0 demo alone, or a GameCube or Panasonic Q from Lan Kwei.
2. Tell them when you order that you are a Planet GameCube reader.
3. Get some zombie proof diapers.

That’s it!  Special thanks to Lan Kwei for hooking our readers up!  

[You think you're having a bad day? Watch this movie and you'll probably change your mind.]

168

TalkBack / (No subject)

« on: August 22, 2002, 10:46:25 AM »

You think you're having a bad day?  Watch this movie and you'll probably change your mind.

We've gotten our hands on the latest promo movie from Acclaim for Turok: Evolution.  Enjoy!

Movie 1 (4.4mb MPEG)

[Madden NFL 2003 hit stores today, and if you haven't picked it up already, we've got some huge movies!]

169

TalkBack / Massive Madden 2003 movies!

« on: August 13, 2002, 03:20:46 PM »

Madden NFL 2003 hit stores today, and if you haven't picked it up already, we've got some huge movies!

Watch as the Packers dismantle the Vikings at Lambeau Field!

We've uploaded the intro, team selection, piles of gameplay, and demonstrated the advanced replay system for you!  Enjoy!

Movie 1 (4.7mb Windows Media File)
Movie 2 (6.1mb Windows Media File)
Movie 3 (9.6mb Windows Media File)
Movie 4 (11.0mb Windows Media File)
Movie 5 (8.7mb Windows Media File)
Movie 6 (4.7mb Windows Media File)

 

 

[Check out this weird story/ad for SMB2.]

170

TalkBack / Monkey Ball 2 adage

« on: August 08, 2002, 07:38:56 AM »

Check out this weird story/ad for SMB2.

Click right here to witness an odd avertisement that features the storyline of Super Monkey Ball 2.  At the end you can view screens and listen to music.  Check it.

[Hoo man! Are you ready to make some seriously bloody messes?]

171

TalkBack / (No subject)

« on: August 02, 2002, 05:17:34 PM »

Hoo man!  Are you ready to make some seriously bloody messes?

During Midway's game presentation today at the Gamers' Day, Midway showed us a quick glimpse of what we should be expecting with fatalities in Mortal Kombat: Deadly Alliance.  Unfortunately, we only got to see two:

1.  Head stomp.  Opponent is on ground.  Player leaps in the air and stomps on head, basically blowing it apart.

2.  Opponent is staggering.  Player takes fist and jams it in the back of the opponent.  Arm moves around, and player rips the entire skeletal system out of the opponents body.

That was all we saw.  The first one was, eh...nothing too exciting in my opinion, yet the second one was awesome.  Both (well everything in the game really) were very bloody.  From what I've been told today, this is just the beginning of the carnage that you'll be able to unleash.