Messages

[Go behind the scenes with EA Canada, and check out some beautiful GameCube footage of EA Sports first GameCube hockey title!]

276

TalkBack / NHL 2003

« on: October 02, 2002, 02:17:04 PM »

Go behind the scenes with EA Canada, and check out some beautiful GameCube footage of EA Sports first GameCube hockey title!

We've uploaded 2 new movies of NHL 2003.  The first movie is the behind-the-scenes with EA Canada.  You'll get a chance to see the development process, and hear from the developers.  We're assuming this is one of the DVD extras that will be incorporated into the game.

The second movie is a quick movie of gameplay footage.  EA Hockey fans...you've been waiting for this.

Don't forget to right click and save these files to your computer.

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

NHL 2003:

Movie 1 (12.9mb Windows Media File)
Movie 2 (2.7mb Windows Media File)

[Tim Follin gets the nod.]

277

TalkBack / Starsky & Hutch gets composer

« on: October 02, 2002, 07:16:30 AM »

Tim Follin gets the nod.

Empire composes itself for future releases

With a host of top grade titles heading for Christmas and the New Year, Empire have acquired the services of leading game music composers Richard Jacques and Tim Follin, to ensure that up and coming products sound as good as they look and play. Richard and Tim are experienced industry musicians and come with an impressive CV of classics under their belt.

Tim Follin will be recreating the cult feel, sound and cool factor of 70's TV classic Starsky & Hutch™ - for Empire's upcoming game release of the same name. Tim's sounds can be heard as far back as the late 80s in The Sentinel, Bionic Commando, Ghosts 'n' Goblins and more recently Equinox and Ecco the Dolphin.

Tim added "This is the project I had hoped I would get one day. I've always loved Starsky & Hutch and it's original title music. I've tried to make the game music as cool and funky as possible, given the nature of the gameplay and overall franchise. I've made a lot of musicians jealous bagging this one!"

Previously Richard Jacques has written music for Jet Set Radio Future, Headhunter, Sonic R, Metropolis Street Racer and some of the Bacardi Breezer TV ads among other leading youth culture properties. His work has also been featured at the Barbican Gallery's "Game On" Exhibition. This time round he's hoping to add a certain je-ne sais-quoi to embody the new cutting edge Emotion AI that promises to make Total Immersion Racing™ stand out from the rest of the racing pack.

Richard added "I have worked on many racing titles previously, but the first thing to stand out on Total Immersion Racing was the attention to detail of the AI. This should give serious driving game fanatics a new level of depth to explore. Also it was great to have the opportunity to write some break-beat tracks for the game. It was excellent to work with Empire on this title."

[So how much of your hard earned dollars are going to go towards PSO? What's this? Exclusive GameCube content?]

278

TalkBack / Phantasy Star Online gets pricing

« on: October 02, 2002, 07:11:53 AM »

So how much of your hard earned dollars are going to go towards PSO?  What's this?  Exclusive GameCube content?

SEGA'S PHANTASY STAR ONLINE EPISODE I & II TO FEATURE EXCLUSIVE ONLINE CONTENT

SAN FRANCISCO - (October 2, 2002) - SEGA(R) of America, Inc. today announced that  "Phantasy Star(TM) Online Episode I & II," the company's 20th online game and the first online-enabled game for the Nintendo GameCube(TM), will feature exclusive downloadable quests as part of the game's online service package.  The "Phantasy Star Online Episode I & II" service package will be available from SEGA for $8.95 per month beginning at the game's launch in the U.S. on October 29, 2002.  "Phantasy Star Online Episode I & II" can be played offline with up to four players for free.

"Phantasy Star Online Episode I & II" online quests will include themed seasonal missions and will feature special items and secrets exclusive to online subscribers.  Based on the wildly popular "Phantasy Star" universe, "Phantasy Star Online Episode I & II" features two complete games in one, allowing players to team up with up to three friends online via a dial-up or broadband connection, or enjoy a full offline experience, including a four-player split screen mode.  Featuring a universal translation system, the game also lets online players seamlessly communicate while playing - no matter what language they speak.

"More than a half million people have already experienced 'Phantasy Star Online(TM)' on the SEGA Dreamcast(TM), and now we're excited that 'Phantasy Star Online Episode I & II' will be the first online game for the Nintendo GameCube," said Mike Fischer, vice president, entertainment marketing, SEGA of America, Inc.  "SEGA has an untouchable reputation for innovation, and we continue to lead the gaming world by example, with this, our 20th online game."

[SPY vs. SPY coming to a console near you!]

279

TalkBack / SPY vs. SPY snagged by TDK

« on: October 01, 2002, 09:28:07 AM »

SPY vs. SPY coming to a console near you!

TDK MEDIACTIVE IS MAD ABOUT SPY vs. SPY  

MAD Magazine’s Popular Feature to Hit Next Generation Gaming Consoles  

WESTLAKE VILLAGE, Calif. – October 1, 2002 – TDK Mediactive, Inc. (OTC: TDKM.OB), a global publisher of interactive entertainment software, announced today a worldwide licensing agreement with E.C. Publications, Inc., the publishers of MAD Magazine, to bring the mischievous and iconic Spy vs. Spy cartoon strip to next generation gaming console systems.

“With over three-quarters of a billion MAD Magazines sold since its inception, we are very pleased to be adding this classic license of madcap espionage at its finest,” said Dan Kletzky, executive vice president of business development, TDK Mediactive. “Spy vs. Spy is an entrenched part of our pop culture that we are proud to be bringing to the gaming community.”

“We are excited to have TDK bringing one of MAD Magazine’s best known features into the rapidly growing video game arena,” stated Paul Levitz, President and Publisher, E.C. Publications, Inc. “With their proven track record, Spy vs. Spy fans will have plenty of hilarious hi-jinx to look forward to.” The Black Spy and White Spy were not immediately available for comment.

About Spy vs. Spy Spy vs. Spy is one of MAD Magazine’s longest-running and best-known features. For nearly four decades, the Black Spy and White Spy have been building their bizarre, elaborate contraptions in an endless parry of “Joke and Dagger.” Award-winning cartoonist Antonio Prohias fled Cuba one step ahead of Castro’s authorities at the height of the Cold War. He ended up in New York, where he began working for MAD. Since 1961, his Spies have been silently turning tables on each other in crazier and ever-more bizarre schemes of one-upmanship.

About MAD Magazine MAD Magazine is America’s longest running humor publication.  Founded by Bill Gaines in 1952, MAD has inspired generations of irreverent fans with its ridiculing of politicians, movies, television, and modern life, and with popular characters such as Alfred E. Neuman and “Spy vs. Spy.”  Whether in print, on television, film, or on the web, MAD remains one of America’s favorite icons.  MAD Magazine is owned by E.C. Publications, Inc. and can be found online at www.madmag.com.  E.C. Publications, Inc. is a division of Warner Bros., an AOL Time Warner company.

About TDK Mediactive, Inc. Southern California based TDK Mediactive, Inc. is a global publisher of high quality interactive entertainment software for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, PS one game console, Xbox‘ video game system from Microsoft, and the Nintendo GameCube, Game Boy® Advance and Game Boy® Color systems.  The company also publishes titles for personal computers via a co-publishing agreement with Activision Value, a subsidiary of Activision, Inc. The company's games are based on licensed and original content derived from major motion pictures, video franchises, popular literature and popular culture. TDK Mediactive has exclusive technology and content licenses with Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc., Microsoft Corporation, Nintendo of America Inc., DreamWorks SKG, Disney Interactive, Vivendi Universal Studios, Mattel, Inc., Classic Media, BKN International, DC Comics, Hallmark Entertainment Distribution LLC, BDSP Inc., The Jim Henson Company, General Motors Corporation, Infogrames Interactive, Inc., and others.

TDK Mediactive is 73% owned by TDK USA Corp., and is part of TDK Corporation's (NYSE: TDK) global effort to expand its offerings to consumers of entertainment-oriented products.  More information about TDK Mediactive and its products is available at www.tdk-mediactive.com.

[We told you about it earlier, but now it's officially announced. Iridion II will soar to your GBA in early 2003.]

280

TalkBack / Iridion II officially announced

« on: October 01, 2002, 09:23:16 AM »

We told you about it earlier, but now it's officially announced.  Iridion II will soar to your GBA in early 2003.

MAJESCO ANNOUNCES 3D SHOOTING ACTION FOR THE GAME BOY® ADVANCE WITH 'IRIDION II'  

Sequel Features Intense Graphics of Predecessor and adds Innovative Game-Play Features

EDISON, NJ, October 1, 2002 - Heading back into space to destroy an invading armada, Majesco, one of the fastest-growing publishers of interactive entertainment software, announces Iridion II for Game Boy® Advance.  The sequel to the original Iridion 3D, Iridion II maintains the intense graphic detail of its predecessor, while adding exciting new features.  

"With its vivid graphics and fast-paced action, Iridion 3D was one of our most acclaimed titles for the Game Boy Advance," said Ken Gold, Vice President of Marketing for Majesco.  "With Iridion II, we maintained the high level of graphic integrity and added in new game-play features and storyline, both of which should broaden the Iridion fan base even further.".

In Iridion II the game begins 500 years after the vicious Iridion forces first attacked Earth and were single handedly destroyed by one brave SHN Fighter Pilot.  At this time, humans began to colonize the planet systems of the Iridion home galaxy.  The Iridion menace was vanquished, until now.  Suddenly, all communication with the human space outposts was lost.  The evil Iridion Empire is back and is now trying to take over the colonized systems.  Peace and freedom are being threatened once again.  Gamers are left with the responsibility of stopping them before they destroy the outposts and eventually attack the last remaining planet of human beings, Earth.

Exciting key features of Iridion II include:

§         Advanced background animation combined with 3D simulation provides great depth of game play and spectacular graphics;

§         16 levels featuring various new enemies throughout each level and an arsenal of new weapons from which to choose;

§         Four challenging planet systems containing a host of new enemies, obstacles and boss characters;

§         "Virtual Reality Training," a tutorial mode which explains all of the techniques used to beat various enemies throughout the game;

§         Increased firepower, speed and health by  destroying enemy formations and accumulating credits;

§         Six different weapons, including satellites, smart bombs and a special super-beam shot;

§         Power-ups to gain new weapons and refill energy.

Iridion II  for Game Boy Advance is being created by Shin`en and will be available in early 2003.  More information on this title, as well as Majesco's entire line-up of exciting products can be found online at www.majescogames.com.

About Majesco

Headquartered in Edison, NJ, with offices in the United Kingdom, Majesco was founded in 1986 and is a leading International developer, publisher and distributor of interactive entertainment products for the Sony Computer Entertainment America, Nintendo and Microsoft video game platforms, as well as the personal computer.  Currently in development are 20 titles for PlayStationÒ2, Xbox(tm), GameCube(tm), and PC, as well as several titles for Game BoyÒ Advance, all scheduled for release in 2002.  Included among these are Majesco's multi-platform, supernatural action/thriller, BloodRayne, and Black & Bruised, an over-the-top, cartoon-style boxing game.  Majesco can be found on the World Wide Web at http://www.majescogames.com/.

[Batman Dark Tomorrow gets pushed back to 2003.]

281

TalkBack / Dark Tomorrow? More like Dark Next Year

« on: October 01, 2002, 08:53:06 AM »

Batman Dark Tomorrow gets pushed back to 2003.

BATMAN: DARK TOMORROW WILL LAUNCH Q1 2003

Kemco today announced that the highly anticipated title Batman: Dark Tomorrow will launch Q1 2003 across Xbox, Playstation 2 and Gamecube. The extra development time will ensure that the game delivers the best in gaming experience.  

Kemco brings the surreal world of the Dark Knight Detective to the next generation of video game platforms, with the action adventure game Batman: Dark Tomorrow. Containing originally crafted story lines by DC Comics, brilliantly written by DC Comics' star author, Scott Peterson and Kenji Terada. Heavily influenced by DC Comics' unique style, easily rivaling the quality of the Dark Knight comic series.

Batman: Dark Tomorrow is a dynamic third person action adventure game filled with anticipation and danger. Containing 30 action-packed levels including Gotham City, Arkham Asylum, Gotham Dock and many more. Accompanied by an incredible 60 hours of Full Motion Video, ardent Batman fans will not only love the game, but enjoy the movie like FMV that fully animates the DC Comic legendary characters.

Kemco have presented a faithful adaptation of the Batman DC Comic series. Keeping in line with the original DC Comic characters, environments, story lines and history. Such authentic depictions of Gotham's most famous characters and environments have never been experienced before.

Visually the graphic detail is superb adding depth to the dynamic atmosphere presented to the gamer. The environments feature intricate detail offering a complex array of levels to explore. Graphically superior to any other Batman game on the market.

Batman: Dark Tomorrow promises to capture a gamers imagination, featuring intense gameplay combined with excellent graphical detail and the legendary DC Comic heritage. Watch this space as many secrets are still to be revealed about this title - a mystery character never seen before on any computer game will feature in Kemco's Batman: Dark Tomorrow.

[It's so hot...it makes us feel naughty. Get the official word on games, giveaways, and beverages to be consumed...]

282

TalkBack / Cube Clubs - The unedited Press Release

« on: October 01, 2002, 08:29:56 AM »

It's so hot...it makes us feel naughty.  Get the official word on games, giveaways, and beverages to be consumed...

Nintendo's Cube Clubs Gear Up for Second Nationwide Tour

Nintendo Showcases Best Holiday Games Coast-to-Coast

REDMOND, Wash.--Oct. 1, 2002--Let's get the party started!

Nintendo of America Inc. is returning with the phenomenally successful Nintendo Cube Club Tour, hitting 15 cities across the nation, starting October 17.

Combining unparalleled excitement for Nintendo's strongest holiday video game lineup with a trendy look and off-the-hook rhythms, Nintendo's Cube Clubs will rival the nation's hottest nightspots.

From October 17 to December 21, Nintendo, joined by co-sponsors Panasonic and Snapple, are transforming vacant spaces in 15 cities and turning them in to `ultimate gaming club' scenes. In each city, Cube Club guests will have seven days to experience not-yet-released NINTENDO GAMECUBE(TM) and Game Boy(R) Advance games, state-of-the-art audio and visual systems, refreshments, and local DJ's with cutting-edge music. The Cube Clubs offer everything you'd expect to see in a city's hottest nightspot but without the dress code, cover charge or $10 drinks.

"It was an easy decision to bring back the Cube Clubs. We saw incredible enthusiasm from the thousands of fans who attended last year," says Peter MacDougall, executive vice president, sales and marketing, Nintendo of America Inc. "Our games are fun and full of kinetic energy, and the Cube Clubs are a direct extension of that pure passion for video games."

In addition to NINTENDO GAMECUBE and Game Boy Advance interactive stations, Panasonic electronics and a variety of beverages provided by Snapple, each Cube Club will feature:

--  More than 25 different games for the NINTENDO GAMECUBE and the         Game Boy Advance systems, including highly anticipated holiday         blockbuster titles such as: Metroid(R) Prime, Resident         Evil(R)0, James Bond 007(TM): Nightfire(TM), Star Fox(R)         Adventures, Tony Hawk Pro Skater(TM) 4, Madden NFL 2003, Metal         of Honor Frontline, Mario Party(R) 4, Animal Crossing(TM) and         many more.

--  As an added bonus, sneak previews of upcoming 2003 titles such         as 1080(degrees) and The Legend of Zelda(R) will also be         available.

--  Nintendo WaveBird(TM) wireless controller competition decks.

--  NINTENDO GAMECUBE and Game Boy Advance connectivity stations.

--  Panasonic MP3 Listening Lounge highlighting today's and         tomorrow's hottest artists.

--  Snapple's line of teas and juice drinks including its new         beverages for 2002: Snapple Apple, Snapricot Orange, Very         Cherry Iced Tea, Lime Green Tea, and Diet Lime Green Tea.

--  Monster giveaway prizes including loads of free Nintendo gear.

The Nintendo Cube Club tour schedule is as follows: October 17 - October 26 (Los Angeles, Minneapolis, Tallahassee); October 31 - November 9 (Phoenix, Chicago, Charlotte); November 14 - November 23 (Las Vegas, Indianapolis, Baltimore); November 29 - December 7 (San Francisco, Memphis, Cleveland); December 12 - December 21 (Portland, Ore., Austin, New York City).

Specific dates, times and locations are available online at www.nintendocubeclub.com, where guests can also download Cube Club tickets and soon enter the national online sweepstakes to win Nintendo, Panasonic and Snapple prizes. Several Cube Club events will feature 21-and-over nights; check website for details. Special daily sponsors of the Nintendo Cube Clubs include: Maxim, Blender, Stuff magazine, DC Comics, Sports Illustrated For Kids, GamePro magazine and Yahoo!

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 a 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 Nintendo's Cube Clubs, visit www.nintendocubeclub.com or the company's Web site at www.nintendo.com.

[The kid pictured in our Lizard Lick story over the weekend has some serious hardcore fans.]

283

TalkBack / Lizard boy becomes famous

« on: September 30, 2002, 06:39:50 AM »

The kid pictured in our Lizard Lick story over the weekend has some serious hardcore fans.

Yes, it's a slow news morning here on Planet GameCube, and we've uncovered an even more disturbing link dealing with the disturbing "lizard boy" picture we posted this past weekend.

At the Clash of the Tongues event there was a child that got his picture taken while he was getting his tongue measured.

He now has a little fan club on Fark.com.  Click the above link to check out some Lizard Boy fan art.

Yes, it really is a slow news morning...

[We've gotten our paws on Need For Speed: Hot Pursuit 2, and captured a few direct feed movies for you gear heads. What was that NWA said about the police?]

284

TalkBack / Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit 2

« on: September 27, 2002, 06:03:11 AM »

We've gotten our paws on Need For Speed: Hot Pursuit 2, and captured a few direct feed movies for you gear heads.  What was that NWA said about the police?

We've uploaded a bunch of direct feed movies of the final version of Need For Speed: Hot Pursuit 2.  Come see Billy drive terribly, wreck exotic cars, piss off the police, and get busted! 

Don't forget to right click and save these files to your computer.

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

Need For Speed: Hot Pursuit 2:

Movie 1 (12.9mb Windows Media File)
Movie 2 (8.7mb Windows Media File)
Movie 3 (9.2mb Windows Media File)
Movie 4 (10.4mb Windows Media File)
Movie 5 (8.2mb Windows Media File)

[It's gotta be Melissa Starks....]

285

TalkBack / Madden = #1 Football title

« on: September 26, 2002, 06:38:41 AM »

It's gotta be Melissa Starks....

Boom!! EA SPORTS Madden NFL and NCAA Football Games Sack the Competition

Retail Data Shows Momentum for NBA Live, NASCAR Thunder and NHL Games from EA SPORTS REDWOOD CITY, Calif.--Sept. 25, 2002--Electronic Arts (Nasdaq:ERTS), the world's leading developer and publisher of video games, has extended its lead in the industry's biggest sports category -- football. Independent research on retail sales ranks EA's Madden NFL(TM) 2003 and NCAA(R) Football 2003 first and second respectively, ahead of the NFL game of the closest competitor. Volume on EA's football games is up 142 percent over the prior year with no significant market share lost to competition.

"Gamers and retailers have voted," said EA's Vice President of Marketing Frank Gibeau, "EA SPORTS(TM) Madden NFL 2003 and NCAA 2003 football games are in a league all their own. The lopsided victory in football shows a great trend line for the upcoming launch of basketball, racing and hockey games from EA SPORTS."

Information collected from sources including NPDFunworld TRSTS Video Games Service for July/August includes the data for the launch of all industry football games in 2002. Key points include:

 Overall, EA SPORTS captured 84.9 percent of the total football market. The closest competitor got 8.4 percent.  

Among just the NFL games, EA's Madden had 82.7 percent market share; the closest competitor had 10.3 percent of the market for NFL games.  

Madden NFL 2003 and NCAA Football 2003 lead their respective categories on every major platform including the PlayStation(R) 2 computer entertainment system, Nintendo GameCube(TM), Xbox(TM) video game system from Microsoft and the PC.  

Among college football games, EA's NCAA Football 2003 captured 96.2 percent of the console market -- a 5.8 percent share increase over last year. The closest competitor got 3.2 percent of the NCAA market -- 6.4 percent less than the year prior.  

In 2001, football constituted 23.3 percent of the market for sports games and sports represented 22 percent of all game sales in North America.

Video game sales track much like motion picture box office -- the first month's sales usually determine success and failure. A game that launches poorly almost never improves in the months that follow.

The next blockbuster from EA SPORTS, NBA Live 2003 with revolutionary freestyle control, is scheduled to ship on October 15.

About Electronic Arts Electronic Arts (EA), headquartered in Redwood City, California, is the world's leading interactive entertainment software company. Founded in 1982, Electronic Arts posted revenues of more than $1.7 billion for fiscal 2002. The company is the leading software developer for video game systems including the PlayStation(R) 2 computer entertainment system, the PlayStation(R), Nintendo GameCube(TM), Xbox(TM) video game system from Microsoft, personal computers and the Internet. The company publishes and distributes software worldwide. Electronic Arts markets its products under four brand names: EA SPORTS(TM), EA SPORTS BIG(TM), EA GAMES(TM) and EA.COM(SM).

Note to Editors: Electronic Arts, EA SPORTS and John Madden Football are trademarks or registered trademarks of Electronic Arts Inc. in the U.S. and/or other countries. NFL, NCAA, NBA, NASCAR, NASCAR Thunder and NHL are trademarks of their respective owners and used with permission. PlayStation 2 is a registered trademark of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. Nintendo GameCube is a trademark of Nintendo. Xbox and Microsoft are trademarks or registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the U.S. and/or other countries. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

[Round #2 with Steven Kent on the Rare issue....and look who gets quoted?!]

286

TalkBack / Planet GameCube makes USA Today!

« on: September 25, 2002, 07:11:21 AM »

Round #2 with Steven Kent on the Rare issue....and look who gets quoted?!

Steven Kent takes another stab at the Rare/MS buyout in his USA Today article, and Planet GameCube gets a mention.  Take a look....

"Rare figured out ways to get the best (performance) out of each machine," says Nintendo senior vice president George Harrison. Nonetheless, when the decision had to be made, "it came out of the perception of price vs. value. ... (Nintendo officials) believed that they could take that money and do development deals elsewhere."

Others may agree. Planet GameCube, one of the largest and most respected Nintendo fan sites on the Net, posted a survey asking visitors how they felt about Rare leaving Nintendo's fold; nearly half of 10,000 respondents said it didn't matter.  

"For me, as a gamer, it does not affect me that much," says Billy Berghammer, who runs the site. "I liked some of their N64 titles, but not all of them."

Make sure you stop by your local newsstand to pick yourself up a copy.  According to Billy's Parents our sources, this makes fantastic refridgerator art!

Special thanks to Steven Kent for the mention.

[Rare may be gone from GameCube, but GBA isn't even close to dead. Steven Kent fans want to read this...]

287

TalkBack / Rare to continue GBA development!

« on: September 24, 2002, 10:28:02 PM »

Rare may be gone from GameCube, but GBA isn't even close to dead.  Steven Kent fans want to read this...

Steven Kent interviewed Joel Hochberg, Rare co-founder this week, and as we reported before, Rare isn't as gone as people may have thought.

Even though Rare will not be developing any more GameCube titles, Rare will continue to develop Game Boy Advance titles.  Here's the goods...

Interestingly, though Rare is now owned by Microsoft, it will still have some dealings with Nintendo. “We still plan to work on games for Game Boy Advance in the future,” said Hochberg. Rare has developed Game Boy titles in the past, and Microsoft does not currently manufacture a rival handheld system.

[Basically confirming everything we've been telling you for the past couple of weeks. We've got the goods...]

288

TalkBack / MS drops the Rare bomb

« on: September 24, 2002, 11:21:31 AM »

Basically confirming everything we've been telling you for the past couple of weeks.  We've got the goods...

Microsoft Acquires Video Game Powerhouse Rare Ltd.  

Developers of Such Worldwide Hits as "Donkey Kong 64," "Banjo-Kazooie," "GoldenEye 007" And "Perfect Dark" Bring Their Talents to Xbox  

REDMOND, Wash. — Sept. 24, 2002 — Microsoft Corp. today announced it has purchased U.K.-based Rare Ltd., one of the world's leading video game developers, further demonstrating Microsoft's commitment to providing the most innovative interactive experiences available on its Xbox™ video game system. Rare has been the mastermind behind some of the most popular video games in history, including such global multimillion sellers as "GoldenEye 007," "Perfect Dark," "Banjo-Kazooie" and "Donkey Kong 64." Under terms of the $375 million cash transaction, Rare will today begin creating exclusive console gaming blockbusters for Xbox.

In a statement made from Seville, Spain, where the announcement was made to both a live and worldwide webcast audience during the company's annual X02 event, Chris Stamper, chairman and technical director of Rare, said, "Our mission at Rare has always been to make the industry's best games for the widest possible audience. Teaming with Microsoft gives us the best opportunity to accomplish this goal. Microsoft's dedication and commitment to game creators, research and development, and to gaming innovation made them the obvious partner to take Rare into the future."

"We've always insisted on pushing the envelope when it comes to creativity," added Tim Stamper, co-founder and creative director of Rare. "And now we get the chance to create for Xbox."

Rare co-founders Chris and Tim Stamper and their talented team of game developers and designers will continue to work out of Rare in Warwickshire, England. Rare was founded in 1985 as a partnership between the Stamper brothers and Joel Hochberg, now Rare president.

"This partnership significantly broadens our already outstanding portfolio of games that will be available for Xbox. And it also broadens our reach internationally as gamers around the world have demonstrated their fanaticism for what Rare consistently produces," said Robbie Bach, Chief Xbox Officer at Microsoft.

"The last time I was this excited was the first time I picked up a controller and played a game from Rare," said Ed Fries, vice president of Xbox Game Content at Microsoft. "As a gamer, you could hardly wait until Rare's next title was announced. You didn't know what genre it would be, but it didn't matter because you knew you were going to love it."

Rare grabbed the attention of the video game world in 1994 with its creation of "Donkey Kong Country." Selling more than 8 million copies, "DKC" went on to become the biggest- selling 16-bit title in history. Rare became one of the premiere developers in the world, with sales averaging 1.4 million units per title and nearly 90 million games sold since the company was founded. Five of the top 20 all-time-best-selling N64 titles were developed by Rare, including "GoldenEye 007," the second-best-selling game in North America, with worldwide sales topping 8 million.

With today's announcement, Rare becomes the latest member of a star-studded lineup at Microsoft Game Studios, joining such prestigious worldwide developers as Bungie Studios, the masterminds behind the smash hit "Halo™," named Game of the Year by Electronic Gaming Monthly. Rare's first creation for Xbox, "Kameo," is expected to reach store shelves next spring. Also under development is the highly anticipated sequel to "Perfect Dark." The company is expecting to develop at least five games over the next two years in a variety of genres, including racing, shooters and platformers.

[Big Air baby! Also included is a demo of Godzilla: Destroy All Monsters Melee!]

289

TalkBack / Big Air Freestyle ships!

« on: September 24, 2002, 09:34:12 AM »

Big Air baby!  Also included is a demo of Godzilla: Destroy All Monsters Melee!

INFOGRAMES SHIPS BIG AIR FREESTYLE FOR NINTENDO GAMECUBE

 Massive Air, Outrageous Tricks, Spectacular Graphics Headline Ultimate Motocross Game -- Playable Demo of Godzilla: Destroy All Monsters Melee Included on Disk --

LOS ANGELES – September 24, 2002 – Infogrames, Inc., (NASDAQ: IFGM) a leading global publisher of interactive entertainment software, has shipped Big Air Freestyle™, an extreme motocross game for the Nintendo GameCube(TM), to store shelves this week.  

Developed by Infogrames’ own Paradigm Entertainment, Big Air Freestyle promises players the most exhilarating motocross experience on Nintendo GameCube with the biggest air and the sickest freestyle tricks.  The game features more than a dozen riders in all three classes (125cc, 250cc and 500 cc), racing across more than 20 gritty real-world and fantasy tracks.  

“Big Air Freestyle raises the bar for motocross video games by pushing the boundaries of graphics and playability,” said Jean-Philippe Agati, senior vice president and head of Infogrames, Inc.’s Los Angeles studio.  “This game puts you deep in the mud in all three motorbike sports – Motocross, Supercross and Freestyle.  With a massive number of tracks and riders, coupled with incredible physics for superior handling and great control, Big Air Freestyle is so extreme, gamers will be cleaning the dirt off their TVs.”

Big Air Freestyle offers deep gameplay in three unique gameplay modes, encompassing the entire two-wheel offroad experience -- Freestyle, Motocross and Supercross.  Players choose to race on large outdoor tracks or specially designed indoor arenas in Motocross and Supercross racing modes.  Freestyle mode invites gamers to careen through the air pulling off death-defying stunts – including the traditional “Can Can” and the impossible “Cliffhanger” -- in indoor fantasy arenas loaded with high ramps and exploding obstacles.  The in-your-face action takes place on more than 20 motocross and supercross tracks and six fantasy freestyle arenas.  

Big Air Freestyle provides the most realistic racing experience with a vast selection of extreme bike models for each engine class (125cc, 250cc and 500cc), disturbingly dirty mud projections, straight-to-the-action controls, interactive Artificial Intelligence, fully animated riders, front and rear brakes and photo-realistic track features.

Each of Big Air Freestyle’s tracks are living, breathing environments with waving flags and animated track officials, spectators, cheerleaders and cameramen.  The game features a thumping soundtrack that includes music from chart topping acts such as 311 and Sugarcult.

As an extra feature, a playable demo of the highly anticipated monster fighting game, Godzilla: Destroy All Monsters Melee, is also included on the disk.  In the demo, players can take control of one of the legendary Toho creatures and battle other gargantuan foes across fully 3D and interactive arenas of city-wide scale.  Godzilla: Destroy All Monsters Melee will ship to retail stores in October for Nintendo GameCube™.

Big Air Freestyle shipped to most retail stores this week with an estimated retail price of $49.99 and an ESRB rating of T for Teen.

About Infogrames New York-based Infogrames, Inc. (Nasdaq: IFGM) is one of the largest third-party publishers of interactive entertainment software in the U.S.  The Company develops video games for all consoles (Sony Computer Entertainment of America, Nintendo and Microsoft), PCs, and Macintosh systems.  Infogrames’ catalogue of more than 1,000 titles includes award-winning franchises such as Civilization(R), Backyard Sports(TM), Deer Hunter(R), Driver(TM), RollerCoaster Tycoon(R), and Test Drive(R), and key licenses including Warner Bros. The Matrix(R), Warner Bros. Looney Tunes(TM), Nickelodeon’s Blue’s Clues(R), Dragon Ball Z(R), Unreal(R), Mission Impossible(R), Terminator(R), Harley-Davidson(R), Major League Baseball(R), and the National Football League(R), among many others.  The Company’s Humongous Entertainment and MacSoft labels are leaders in children’s and Macintosh entertainment software, respectively.

Infogrames, Inc. is a majority-owned subsidiary of France-based Infogrames Entertainment SA (IESA) (Euronext 5257), a global publisher and distributor of video games for all platforms.  In 2001, IESA acquired Infogrames Interactive, Inc. (formerly Hasbro Interactive), including rights to use its line of software based on well-known licenses such as MONOPOLY, Jeopardy(R), TONKA, and Atari(R), which are published and distributed in the U.S. by Infogrames, Inc.  For more information, visit the Company’s Web site at www.infogrames.com.

[Punching meat now, chugging eggs now, feelin' good now! Adddddrrrrriiiiiaaaaaaaaaaaaaan!]

290

TalkBack / The Rocky website is open

« on: September 24, 2002, 06:06:29 AM »

Punching meat now, chugging eggs now, feelin' good now!  Adddddrrrrriiiiiaaaaaaaaaaaaaan!

RAGE TO KNOCK-OUT OPPOSITION WITH 'ROCKY™' WEBSITE

Rage, one of the UK's leading publishers and developers of entertainment software, is pleased to announce that is has launched a dedicated website for its forthcoming officially licensed 'Rocky' series of games due for release this Winter on the PlayStation® 2 computer entertainment system, Xbox™ video game system from Microsoft® and Nintendo® GameCube™ at www.rockythegame.com

Based on the critically acclaimed Rocky movie anthology staring Sylvester Stallone and featuring all of the leading characters from the five Rocky films – 'Apollo Creed', 'Clubber Lang' (aka Mr T.), 'Ivan Drago' and Tommy Gunn' - you take on the role of the 'Italian Stallion' and must fight your way through several single and multi-player challenges as you attempt to become the undisputed boxing champion of the world.  

Featuring 30 individual fighters plus special hidden characters including Rocky’s trainer 'Mickey' and over 250 fight moves ranging from attacking hooks, jabs and uppercuts through to defensive blocks, ducks and weaves specially motion captured by current WBO Cruiserweight World Champion Johnny Nelson, Rocky faithfully recreates the feel-good-factor of the Academy Award® winning movies and is the most exciting and explosively charged boxing game around on any console.

Rocky also features realistic damage including bruises, facial swellings, blood, sweat and tears as the action heats up, plus there is a dedicated training mode designed to enhance your boxer’s skill and stamina.  

The new website includes a full history of the Rocky movie anthology, all the very latest game information including special fighter biographies, exclusive artwork, screensavers, wallpapers and audio downloads plus a special competition to win a signed boxing glove by Clubber Lang (aka Mr T.)

[Vivendi Universal (VU) gets the worldwide publishing rights to Crave's Whirl Tour.]

291

TalkBack / VU and Crave ink publishing agreement

« on: September 24, 2002, 06:02:04 AM »

Vivendi Universal (VU) gets the worldwide publishing rights to Crave's Whirl Tour.

VU Publishing's Games Division Acquires Exclusive Publishing Rights To Whirl Tour, a New Extreme Sports Action-Adventure Title Scheduled to Debut in Fourth Quarter

LOS ANGELES, Sept. 23 - Vivendi Universal Publishing (VU Publishing) and Crave Entertainment today announced the signing of a worldwide publishing agreement granting VU Publishing's Games division (VU Games) exclusive rights to the multi-platform release of Whirl Tour. Scheduled for launch in the fourth quarter 2002, Whirl Tour offers players a unique combination of action, extreme sports and adventure-based game play. The title will be available for the Nintendo GameCube(TM) and PlayStation(R)2 computer entertainment system.

"Extreme sports is a hot category in the games business right now, and Whirl Tour puts an exciting twist on the genre by incorporating action and adventure elements," said Luc Vanhal, President and COO, North America for VU Games. "We believe that Whirl Tour has the universal appeal necessary for success in the global games market and we look forward to launching this title in time for the holiday buying season."

"We're very excited about this new partnership," says Crave Entertainment president Ron Scott. "We expect that the capabilities of the VU Games marketing and sales teams will result in significant consumer awareness and retail presence for Whirl Tour."

In Whirl Tour, players assume the role of Wasa B., the roadie for the rock band Flipside. After the band is mysteriously kidnapped during a concert, Wasa B. must rescue his friends and uncover the mystery of their capture. The action takes players through eight creative, colorfully rendered, interactive levels, including a castle, a theme park, a movie set and even a floating city.

Players will utilize a variety of gas, electric, and rocket powered scooters to navigate through the game levels. Throughout the game, the player will collect CD-style icons that will add the music tracks to an in-game "jukebox" which functions as a customizable play list.

Further product details regarding Whirl Tour will be announced shortly. For more information about other VU Games initiatives and upcoming product releases, visit http://www.vugames.com .

About Vivendi Universal Publishing Vivendi Universal Publishing, a division of the world's second largest communications group (Vivendi Universal), publishes content in four major languages and has strong local brands. As the world's third largest publisher, the Company's key content areas include literature, reference, school, college, kids, games and consumer press. Vivendi Universal Publishing is a global leader in multi-platform interactive entertainment. A leading publisher of PC, console and online-based interactive content, its portfolio of development studios includes Black Label Games, Blizzard Entertainment, NDA Productions, Sierra Entertainment and Universal Interactive. Through its subsidiary VU Games, it distributes worldwide its interactive contents and co-publishes and/or distributes products for a number of strategic partners. VU Publishing's digitization policy provides its content with a doorway to multi-platform international distribution giving the group a competitive edge in a changing market.

About Crave Entertainment Based in Los Angeles, California, Crave Entertainment is a privately held publisher of videogame entertainment products. The company's best-selling line-up features top brands and franchises such as Ultimate Fighting Championship and Tokyo Xtreme Racer.

Crave produces games for the major console platforms including Game Boy(R) Advance, Nintendo GameCube(TM), the PlayStation(R) game console, PlayStation(R)2 computer entertainment system, the Xbox(TM) video game system from Microsoft, and for the PC. For more information about Crave Entertainment, visit http://www.cravegames.com .

[Sega's partners with Michael Crichton on a new title for release in 2004.]

292

TalkBack / Sega teams with Michael Crichton

« on: September 23, 2002, 06:34:17 AM »

Sega's partners with Michael Crichton on a new title for release in 2004.

SEGA Partners with Michael Crichton to Create New Game Based on an Original Concept

Partnership Brings Together World-Renowned Video Game Developer and Best-Selling Author in Unique Collaborative Venture

SAN FRANCISCO, Sept. 23, 2002: SEGA(R) of America, Inc. today announced that it has partnered with best-selling author Michael Crichton to develop a new video game based on an original concept to be created by Michael Crichton in association with SEGA. The partnership will bring together top SEGA game developers and Michael Crichton in a collaborative venture resulting in a new game currently scheduled for release in 2004.

"Unlike traditional licensing agreements in which pre-existing properties are developed into video games, SEGA's partnership with Michael Crichton is a unique alliance bringing together brilliant talent from two different entertainment media to create a game concept from scratch," said Peter Moore, president and COO, SEGA of America, Inc. "Michael Crichton is a creative mastermind, recognized across all traditional entertainment media including print, film and TV. We are thrilled that Mr. Crichton has chosen to leverage his talents in the interactive entertainment industry with SEGA."

"Partnering with SEGA, who has an extraordinary track record in the interactive entertainment industry, is an opportunity to create an amazing video game from the ground up," said Michael Crichton. "I look forward to working with SEGA's first-rate creative team."

Additional information on the new video game has not been announced. Information on SEGA and SEGA games is available at www.sega.com (http://www.sega.com). Information on Michael Crichton can be found at (http://www.crichton-official.com).

[Fox is on his way!]

293

TalkBack / Star Fox Adventures Ships

« on: September 23, 2002, 06:30:51 AM »

Fox is on his way!

Nintendo Launches Star Fox Adventures: An Epic Tale of Dinosaur Rescue

Legendary Pilot Emerges from the Cockpit to Save A Planet

REDMOND, Wash.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sept. 23, 2002--Eight years after cementing his status as one of the most acclaimed pilots in video game history, Fox McCloud returns in full force, extending his heroics from air to land to water to preserve the lush habitat and protect the residents of Dinosaur Planet.

A joint effort by Nintendo and Rare(R) Ltd., the sprawling epic, Star Fox(R) Adventures, arrives exclusively for NINTENDO GAMECUBE(TM), Sept. 23, for an MSRP of $49.95.

"When Star Fox first launched for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System in the mid `90s, it marked an exciting but very early attempt to move objects through a 3-D environment," explains Peter MacDougall, executive vice president, sales and marketing, Nintendo of America Inc. "This new Star Fox Adventures for NINTENDO GAMECUBE is a stunning reminder of how far our industry has come, how gorgeous visuals and world class storytelling can deliver weeks and even months of engrossing, interactive entertainment."

Previously, Fox McCloud was content to battle enemies from his Arwing fighter. But now, he must explore the vast terrain of the planet on foot to defeat the devious General Scales and mutated dinosaurs he's enlisted to his cause. While Fox was previously visible only dimly beneath his cockpit window, players now will watch a wide array of facial expressions from Fox as he wields weapons and magic to soar above and charge through the vividly rendered forests, jungles, icescapes and hidden structures of Dinosaur Planet. With his former wing mates now retired to ground support roles, Fox teams up with a native triceratops named Prince Tricky and encounters a mysterious young woman named Krystal.

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(TM). 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 Nintendo, visit the company's Web site, www.nintendo.com.

[One of our staffers just did over the weekend! Find out which Planet Staffer tied the knot!]

294

TalkBack / Hear Wedding Bells?

« on: September 22, 2002, 06:13:48 PM »

One of our staffers just did over the weekend!  Find out which Planet Staffer tied the knot!

On Saturday, September 21, 2002, Nathan James Christianson married Elizabeth Christina Christianson in St. Paul, Minnesota.

Thank god she’s a gamer!

On behalf of the staff here at Planet GameCube I'd like to congratulate Nathan Christianson and his new bride Christina Christianson on their wedding!

May you live long and prosperous lives together!

[Finally. Get the exclusive first words right here…]

295

TalkBack / Nintendo to allow demo discs in the US

« on: September 22, 2002, 07:37:10 AM »

Finally.  Get the exclusive first words right here…

According to our inside sources within Nintendo of America, Nintendo has given the green light to companies to distribute demo discs.

The first demo disc that will be released will be Resident Evil 0.  It’s unknown if this will be the same demo released in Japan, and it’s also unclear how these discs will be released.  These demo discs could be distributed free in stores, part of a pre-order deal, or even available inside game magazines.  This is yet to be determined.

It is also unknown at this time if Nintendo themselves will be releasing their own demo discs.  We're keeping our fingers crossed.

Stay tuned to Planet GameCube to find out how to get your hands on the first-ever GameCube demo discs.

[Kiss Banjo-Kazooie, Conker, and Miss Dark good-bye. You will no longer see new games with these characters on Nintendo systems.]

296

TalkBack / Rare keeps certain licenses

« on: September 20, 2002, 01:19:31 PM »

Kiss Banjo-Kazooie, Conker, and Miss Dark good-bye.  You will no longer see new games with these characters on Nintendo systems.

We posted the press release about Nintendo "dropping" Rare a little earlier today, but we've learned some additional news from our inside sources that the press release seemingly left out.

Rare will retain the rights to Banjo Kazooie, Conker, and Perfect Dark.  You will no longer see new games with these licenses on Nintendo systems.  Rare owns these licenses.

So what happens to the GBA games?  Our sources say that the games like Diddy Kong Pilot, and Donkey Kong Coconut Crackers will be released by Nintendo.  Banjo Kazooie and Sabrewulf will not be joining the released titles.

We should have more news on this in the next couple of days.

[It's time to drive the portable car on your portable game system.]

297

TalkBack / Matchbox Cross Town Heroes Ships

« on: September 20, 2002, 10:31:45 AM »

It's time to drive the portable car on your portable game system.

THQ Ships ``Matchbox Cross Town Heroes'' for Game Boy Advance and PC  

Wednesday September 18, 8:25 am ET --CALABASAS HILLS, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sept. 18, 2002--THQ® Inc. (Nasdaq:THQI - News) today announced the release of "Matchbox(TM) Cross Town Heroes(TM)" for Game Boy® Advance and PC. Mattel Inc.'s (NYSE:MAT - News) Matchbox® brand has been a household favorite for 50 years and continues to be among the most recognizable brands in the world. The game is now available for Game Boy Advance at retail outlets nationwide and will ship this week for PC.  

"Over the past 50 years, the Matchbox® brand has evolved to embody positive rescue themes for kids through its cars and play sets and garners the praise of parents and kids alike," said Amy Boylan, senior vice president Boys/Entertainment New Media at Mattel, Inc. "`Matchbox(TM) Cross Town Heroes(TM)' embodies the rescue theme that has made Matchbox® so popular with kids and translates into an enjoyable, authentic gameplay experience accessible to kids across the globe," said Boylan.  

"Matchbox® further solidifies THQ's leadership position in the kids market and our unparalleled ability to match mass-market brands with quality gameplay across multiple platforms," said Peter Dille, vice president, marketing, THQ.  

In "Matchbox(TM) Cross Town Heroes(TM)," players will take control of six original Matchbox® vehicles including the Fire Crusher, Rescue Net Police Car, Battering Ram, Airport Fire Pumper, Rescue Net Police SUV and Armored Police Truck. Players can interact with more than 50 different characters, animals and creatures -- each with its own unique animations. "Matchbox(TM) Cross Town Heroes(TM)" features an array of exciting missions to complete, including saving a fireworks factory from flames, rescuing circus and zoo animals and investigating reported mischief downtown. The game also features 12 bonus action games including racing, puzzles, arcade and round-up.  

For more information on "Matchbox(TM) Cross Town Heroes(TM)" and other upcoming THQ games, please visit www.thq.com.  

Mattel Inc. is a worldwide leader in the design, manufacture and marketing of family products. With headquarters in El Segundo, California, Mattel has offices and facilities in 36 countries and sells its products in more than 150 nations around the world. For more information on Mattel products, please log-on to our website at www.mattel.com. For more information on Matchbox visit www.matchbox.com.  

THQ Inc. is a leading, worldwide developer and publisher of interactive entertainment software for a variety of hardware platforms including PC CD-ROM, wireless devices, and those manufactured by Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc., Nintendo and Microsoft. The THQ web site is located at www.thq.com. The THQ Wireless site is located at www.thqwireless.com.  

Matchbox (U/C) and associated trademarks are owned by and used under license from Mattel, Inc.

[Can someone make some "vroom vroooooom" noises? Thank you.]

298

TalkBack / NASCAR Thunder 2003 Ships

« on: September 20, 2002, 10:22:46 AM »

Can someone make some "vroom vroooooom" noises?  Thank you.

NASCAR THUNDER 2003 SHIPS ON FOUR PLATFORMS

Best-Selling EA SPORTS NASCAR Game Offers Most Complete NASCAR Experience with New Modes such as Lightning Challenge and Deepest Career Mode in NASCAR Gaming

Redwood City, Calif., September 19, 2002 - Get behind the wheel of Dale Earnhardt Jr's number 8 car or select from any of the 69 NASCAR® drivers, with more than 175 different NASCAR vehicles in Electronic Arts' (Nasdaq: ERTS) NASCAR Thunder(tm) 2003.  The console versions shipped this week for the Playstation®2 computer entertainment system, the PlayStation® console, Xbox(tm) video game system from Microsoft and the Nintendo GameCube(tm).  Now the most extensive NASCAR experience, with a full pack of 43 cars racing door-to-door, also features the deepest and most compelling modes with the addition of the Lightning Challenge, Thunder License and an expanded Career Mode.  

"I'm gonna wear this game out," commented Dale Earnhardt Jr. "The new additions are really fun. I take this stuff pretty seriously, so I'm happy to see that EA SPORTS has done great things with this year's NASCAR Thunder game."  

The NASCAR Thunder franchise is renowned for its Career Mode but this year's is the deepest yet.  Gamers are challenged to create a car, sign sponsors, manage the pit crew and invest in research and development as they try to beat the record seven championships held by Richard Petty and the late Dale Earnhardt.  Management can be very detailed, users can choose to recruit each member of the pit crew separately or have the computer quickly select a pit crew for them. In addition to managing the team through out their career, players can attract bigger and better sponsors and earn money to invest in the team, car and pit crew on their way to NASCAR super-stardom.  

The game's new Lightning Challenge mode throws gamers into one of 31 different scenarios. Each challenge features one or more of 35 different NASCAR stars, out of the car and in front of the cameras, walking fans through the scenario and challenging them to recreate or improve on history.  Challenges range from trying to navigate the car through the "big one," a crash involving multiple vehicles, without getting caught up in the wreck, to repeating Dale Earnhardt Jr's win at last year's EA SPORTS(tm) 500.  With one lap to go, the number 8 car is in 4th place -- can you take Dale Jr. back to victory lane?  Winning these challenges earn Thunder Plates that unlock features including hidden drivers, tracks, alternate paint schemes and videos in NASCAR Thunder.  

Another new feature, Thunder License mode, takes you on a guided tour by Richard Petty, to all 23 NASCAR Cup Series tracks.  Players can ride shotgun with "The King" as he shows the best lines around each of the tracks and entry speeds for the infamously tough and treacherous turns in the NASCAR Cup Series.  Along the way, Petty will also share little details and interesting factoids about the tracks.  Once gamers hit the track, they will benefit from the interactive driving instruction from one of 23 NASCAR Cup Drivers.  Getting your Thunder License is the best way to improve your driving skills and success is rewarded with a host of unique Thunder Plates.    

NASCAR Thunder 2003 features fantasy tracks that offer additional challenges for gamers who are looking for more road racing.  NASCAR Thunder 2003 features 6 challenging fantasy road racing courses, racing on the Daytona Beach course and one Superspeedway with speeds in excess of 240mph.  

"We're taking the NASCAR franchise to a whole new level with NASCAR Thunder 2003," said Ed Martin, director of NASCAR production, Electronic Arts. "With 2003, we've taken our best selling game and added entirely new ways for fans to experience the racing action with new game modes, more drivers, more tracks and lots more excitement."

Developed by EA - Tiburon, the developers of the Madden NFL(tm) franchise games, NASCAR Thunder 2003 is rated "E" (Everyone) by the ESRB.   Available on the PlayStation 2 console, Nintendo GameCube, the Xbox, the PlayStation console and later this year as a rich simulation experience on the PC.  Consumers may purchase the game directly at the EA StoreSM (http://eastore.ea.com) or by calling EA Direct Sales at 1-877/324-2637, for a suggested retail price of $49.95.

EA SPORTS(tm) 500 at Talladega®  NASCAR Thunder 2003 features the EA SPORTS 500, a stop on the NASCAR Cup Series at Alabama's Talladega Superspeedway®.  Last year EA SPORTS announced a three-year sponsorship deal with Talladega Superspeedway and the International Speedway Corporation naming the legendary NASCAR Cup Series fall race the EA SPORTS 500.  The inaugural event concluded with a dramatic victory by NASCAR Thunder 2003's cover athlete, Dale Earnhardt Jr., on October 21, 2001.  This year's race takes place on October 6, 2002.

[The official statement from Nintendo that you all may have, or may not have been waiting for.]

299

TalkBack / Nintendo Cuts Development Ties with Rare

« on: September 20, 2002, 08:46:26 AM »

The official statement from Nintendo that you all may have, or may not have been waiting for.

Nintendo Cuts Development Ties with Rare, Ltd.

Decision Reflects Strategic Move To Expand And Redirect Game Development

LONDON--Sept. 20, 2002--As part of a strategic redirection of its game development investments, Nintendo announces it has sold its 49 percent ownership position in U.K.-based developer Rare, Ltd.

"Nintendo had the ability to continue its exclusive relationship with Rare, but in looking at the company's recent track record, it became clear that its value to the future of Nintendo would be limited," says Peter MacDougall, executive vice president, sales and marketing, Nintendo of America. "In other words, we passed on this opportunity for very good business reasons."

In fiscal year 2001, Rare accounted for only 9.5 percent of total Nintendo software sales worldwide. In fiscal year 2002, that number declined to 1.5 percent.

Nintendo will retain exclusive rights for all original properties and franchises featured in games developed by Rare, including Donkey Kong(R), Diddy Kong(R) and Star Fox(R).  

According to MacDougall, game development is, by nature, dynamic. Relationships continually change to meet the needs of both manufacturers and publishers. "The disposition of this investment leaves us in a position to become even more aggressive in expanding our development capacity, both internally and externally. Aside from several partnerships already announced over the past year, we are currently in similar talks with several other prospective partners around the world."

In the past year, Nintendo has added emphasis on games which offer true innovation to video game players, and especially those with appeal to older players. Key current and upcoming NINTENDO GAMECUBE(TM) titles include Eternal Darkness: Sanity's Requiem(TM), Animal Crossing(TM), Metroid(R) Prime, The Legend of Zelda(R) and Capcom's upcoming Resident Evil series exclusively for NINTENDO GAMECUBE.

"Although we declined the opportunity to continue our exclusive agreement with Rare, this announcement does not diminish our respect for their work or the past contributions they have made to Nintendo," adds MacDougall.

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 NINTENDO GAMECUBE or any other Nintendo product visit the company's Web sites, www.nintendo.com or www.nintendogamecube.com.

[From Software has released a trailer for Rune II and we've got it online!]

300

TalkBack / Rune II

« on: September 20, 2002, 08:03:43 AM »

From Software has released a trailer for Rune II and we've got it online!

We've uploaded a new trailer for From Software's Rune II.  Rune II is shaping up quite nicely, and looks much improved from the first Rune title.  You'll get a good look at some of the new summons, environmentsm, and characters.  This trailer is a highly compressed MPEG, so without further compressing it into a WMV, we left it the way we found it.  Enjoy!

Rune II:

Movie 1 (10mb MPEG)