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May 4———————————
Activision Casts Spidey (Games: Dreamcast)
Activision shipped Spider–Man for the Dreamcast game console. The 3D action/adventure title is based on Marvel’s web–slinging, wall–crawling super hero, and was developed by Treyarch LLC. Using "Spider–Sense", players solve a variety of puzzles, and defeat super–villains such as Venom, Carnage and Dr. Octopus. Spider–Man features 34 action–packed levels, with familiar comic book locales including the Daily Bugle, Times Square and a New York bank.
GBA Preview at Best Buy (Event)
Best Buy stores nationwide will preview Nintendo’s Game Boy Advance in specially designed kiosks beginning on Sunday, May 6. In addition, Best Buy will feature a pre–sell program within the stores, and online at BestBuy.com. For $5 customers can reserve copies of Tony Hawk Pro Skater 2, Iridion, Super Mario Advance and F–Zero Maximum Velocity. The deposit ensures that the games will be available for the handheld’s June 11 launch.
A Skin for Nova’s Land Warrior (Hardware & Peripherals)
Control Zone Interactive Inc. released a PC Keyboard Control Cover for use with Delta Force: Land Warrior from NovaLogic. The cover transforms the keyboard into a mission control center to help guide players through their tactical adventures as a special forces’ team member. While the missions unfold, each soldier must be able to react quickly to enemy encounters, threats and fire fights. This "skin" positions skills and weapons above the appropriate keys so players can take control immediately, and have highly successful missions. And best of all, there’s no learning curve, set–up, or configuration required!
A Cluster of Handheld Games (Games: Wireless)
G–cluster has successfully launched a handheld wireless device for online multiplayer gaming with high–quality 3D graphics and sound. By connecting to a wireless Internet network cluster, G–screen can be used as a rental in airports, airplanes, hotels, amusement parks and coffee shops. The first titles will be available from Lego and Elixir Studios. Hardware partnerships include Hewlett–Packard and Compaq. The Finland–based developer of wireless game applications will be on hand at E3 in Kentia Hall, booth 6833.
InfoSpace Crosses Devices (Games: Wireless)
InfoSpace, Inc. announced the availability of cross–device gaming platform, which enables InfoSpace’s partners to offer a variety of integrated games across wireless, broadband and narrowband platforms. With the new gaming platform, service providers and carriers can provide international access to wireless games from InfoSpace and third–party developers via Internet–enabled devices such as cellular phones, next–gen 2.5 and 3G phones, television set–top boxes, PDAs and PCs. In fact, several third–party games are already being developed on InfoSpace’s platform.
New Adventures in the ER (Games: PC)
Legacy Interactive shipped Emergency Room 3 for the PC. The new doctor–meets–patient role–playing game features some of the best real–life cases that were submitted through ERsim.com. ER3’s intense game play is powered by a professional medical database, and offers multiple levels and all–new options. In response to overwhelming demand, the latest version includes maternity cases, complete with fetal monitors and speculums. Players will also find more colorful characters and stranger scenarios than ever before. Emergency Room 3 was distributed for Legacy by Activision.
Microsoft’s New Ensemble (Industry Insights)
Microsoft Corp. has acquired Ensemble Studios. The developer is known for its award–winning Age of Empires PC franchise. Under the terms of the agreement, Ensemble will continue to create titles from its Dallas headquarters. Ensemble joins other leading developers under the software giant’s umbrella including; FASA Interactive’s MechWarrior; Access Software Inc.’s Links; Digital Anvil and Bungie Software Products Corp.
In related news, Microsoft revealed details regarding Ensemble’s latest PC title, Age of Mythology. The real–time strategy game features a new proprietary 3D engine that provides stunning visual effects, and incorporates trademark Age of Empires features including; a compelling economic model; a massive army and battle system; unequaled computer artificial intelligence; random maps, intuitive game play and extreme attention to detail. Players assume the roles of ancient Greeks, the Norse and Egyptians. Age of Mythology will be shown for the first time during E3 at the Microsoft booth.
Dungeon Siege Chat (Event)
Microsoft will host a live chat at zone.com with Dungeon Siege’s lead designer Chris Taylor on Monday, May 7, from 6pm to 7pm PDT, to discuss the upcoming action/fantasy role–playing game from Seattle–based, Gas Powered Games. Chris has spent more than a decade creating and designing video games including Hardball II, 4D Boxing, Triple Play Baseball and Total Annihilation. To participate, select "Chats & Events" on the navigation bar across the top of any zone.com page, and click "Chat Rooms" and "Zone Theater Chat" within the room list. Dungeon Siege is scheduled to release in the fall for the PC.
More info about Dungeon Siege.
Midway’s 2001–2 Lineup (Games: Multiplatform)
During Midway’s third quarter earnings announcement, the company provided a list of 2001 titles, and plans for 2002. For the Game Boy Advance’s launch, Midway will release Ready 2 Rumble Boxing: Round 2. The fall premiere of the Xbox will be welcomed by Arctic Thunder, NFL Blitz 20–02 and NHL Hitz 20–02. In addition, NFL Blitz 20–02 and NHL Hitz 20–02 will accompany the GameCube’s arrival. And in support of the PlayStation 2, versions of NHL Hitz 2002, NFL Blitz and Arctic Thunder will be available, as well as CART Fury, Gauntlet Dark Legacy, Spy Hunter and Legion: Legend of Excalibur. Meanwhile, Midway plans to release at least 31 titles in 2002, with at least 12 for the PlayStation 2, 10 for the Xbox and nine for the GameCube. Mortal Kombat fighting fans, rest assured that a reincarnation of the franchise will be planned for these releases.
May 3———————————
Anarchy Strikes the Online World (Games: Web)
Funcom announced a June 27 U.S. release of Anarchy Online. The 3D massively multiplayer game is designed to take on the other virtual worlds of Ultima Online (Electronic Arts), EverQuest (Sony) and Asheron’s Call (Microsoft). Anarchy Online puts players in a Sci–Fi world 30,000 years into the future, where they must choose between two sides, the military regime or outcast rebel clans, and become a part of the evolving story.
New Fighting Legends Screenshots (Games: PC)
Maximum Charisma Studios has released new screenshots from its online role–playing, strategy/action title, Fighting Legends. The game has all–new special effects that bring the colorful worlds of Exisle to life on the PC. Role Players can embark on quests, engage in character growth and help build in–game communities; Strategists can methodically build and defend their bases, research and create perfect squads, plan battles and participate in tournaments; and Action–oriented players can jump right in and attack everything in sight. Fighting Legends is currently in Alpha, and will release in November.
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Exclusive MechCommander 2 Sign–ups (Contests)
On Friday, May 4, gamers will be able to sign–up for the chance to win a sneak preview copy of MechCommander 2, access a private newsgroup and on May 31 at zone.com participate in an exclusive chat with the game’s development team. Microsoft has not disclosed the start time for the sign–up, therefore gamers will want to check the 14 participating sites frequently. A complete listing of all the sites can be obtained at the official MechCommander 2 web site. Ten lucky winners will be chosen from each, along with 50 randomly selected winners from all of the entries received. MechCommander 2 draws gamers into the rich, 16–year history of the BattleTech Universe, with intense tactical game play and 3D terrain.
Midway Recreates Gauntlet Series (Games: PlayStation 2)
Midway Games Inc. shipped Gauntlet Dark Legacy for the PlayStation 2. The game is a 3D version of the Gauntlet video game franchise, and features eight playable characters and masterfully crafted worlds; role–playing adventure and advanced combat; and four–player cooperative game play. Throughout each mystical realm, players must find obelisks, rune stones and countless other items, while being confronted by more than 50 different enemies and challenging bosses.
NDL Lends a Hand to Xbox Pros (For Developers)
Numerical Design Ltd. will provide a free NetImmerse 3D game engine/toolkit evaluation license to Microsoft’s Xbox Incubator Program participants. The offer is targeted at those developers who want to commit their resources to a title that uses an official Xbox Development Kit (XDK) before relationships have been secured with major publishers. While in the program, participants will be able to utilize a full binary version of NetImmerse, which includes run–time API, optimization tools, plug–ins for 3ds max and Maya, documentation, tutorials and samples.
Nuby’s Cobra Lighting (Hardware & Peripherals)
Nuby Interactive announced the launch of its Cobra Advance Line, which uses the same technology found in the Game Boy Color Cobra accessories line. Nuby’s Cobra line features a unique Cobra Light that minimizes screen glare through a process known as reflective technology. The Cobra Advance Line will include the Cobra Advance Magnalight, Cobra Advance Link Cable, Cobra Advance Power Plus and Cobra Advance AC Adapter. And each accessory will be available in the same colors as the Game Boy Advance. Nuby’s Game Boy Advance products will be on display at E3 in the West Hall, booth 2108.
In related news, Nuby has filed for a patent to cover the Cobra Game Boy lighting products’ exclusive reflective technology.
NYKO’s Cosmic Wonders at E3 (Hardware & Peripherals)
NYKO Technologies, Inc. unveiled its accessory lineup for E3, which includes everything from UFOs to Dinosaurs. In preparation for the June launch of the Game Boy Advance, the company will feature a UFO Light with an interchangeable lighting head, and advanced versions of Shock ’N’ Rock, Worm Light, Power Link and ZOOM Light. The ZOOM Light compact light magnifier will also be on display for the Game Boy Color. For PlayStation 2 users, NYKO has its own rendition of the consoles’ standard 8MB memory card. And to capitalize on the company’s Jurrasic Park license, NYKO will showcase several Jurassic Park III accessories for the Game Boy Color and Game Boy Advance. NYKO will be located in the West Hall, booth 3008.
Paramount and Sony Raid Pepsi (Miscellaneous)
Pepsi–Cola Company, Paramount Pictures and Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. have announced a marketing partnership to promote the June 15 premiere of Tomb Raider. In the Raid the Pepsi, Search for PlayStation promo, consumers simply "raid" specially marked packages of Pepsi, Wild Cherry Pepsi, Diet Pepsi or Pepsi ONE, and search inside the pack or behind the label for an instant–win message. Instant–win items include PlayStation 2 and PSOne game consoles, PlayStation video games, official Tomb Raider movie posters and a Sony Home Entertainment Center. In addition, on–pack coupons will provide consumers with $5 off a variety of PSOne and PS2 software titles from Eidos Interactive. The cross–promotional campaign runs from May 14 through June 24, with Wild Cherry Pepsi television support beginning May 6, a strong radio schedule and web presence. Pepsi will also promote the program through point–of–sale displays at retail, and Pepsi bottlers will have the opportunity to develop individual programs within their areas.
The Rage is On for Criterion (Industry Insights)
Rage Software has licensed Criterion Software’s multiplatform 2D/3D graphics toolkit for an upcoming PlayStation 2 sports title. The company chose to use RenderWare Graphics because of its ability to reduce game development time and risk, which enables developers to focus their efforts on content and game play. Rage joins more than 250 development houses that have licensed the integrated middleware solution.
VU Secures Tolkien’s Fantasy (Industry Insights)
Vivendi Universal Publishing acquired the rights to create games based on J.R.R. Tolkien’s fantasy novels. Under the eight–year deal, Sierra will develop and release multiple titles for various platforms based on The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings trilogy, which includes The Fellowship of the Ring, The Two Towers and The Return of the King. The first game, The Fellowship of the Ring, will be released in early 2002.
May 2———————————
Aqua Serves the Ball with ShapeSnatcher (Technology)
Aqua Pacific has a new tennis game in development that utilizes Eyetronics’ ShapeSnatcher, which transforms an average slide projector and digital camera into a sophisticated 3D scanning and modeling system. The 16 players and umpires found in Ace Tennis were scanned and processed using the integrated software package. The game is expected to resemble Aqua Pacific’s All–Star Tennis 2000 title, but with much greater character images, game play and scenery. In fact, ACE Tennis’ detail is so advanced that umpires have different accents depending upon the location of the game, and they even jump out of the way of stray tennis balls. The game will feature famous Grand Slam tournament courts in Australia, England, France and the United States, while players have the option to serve–it–up on grass, clay, asphalt or synthetic turf.
Burning Hot Music and Gadgets (Games: PC)
Humongous Entertainment shipped the third adventure in its SPY Fox series, SPY Fox: Operation Ozone. Children, ages seven and up help SPY Fox save the world from the grips of the sunscreen queen, Poodles Galore. A new feature within the game’s CD–ROM enables kids to play the 11 original SPY music tracks, while away from their computer. In addition, kids have the opportunity to win cool SPY prizes by matching a decoder found in every product box against a lineup of suspects on the inside front flap.
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Control Starfleet’s Pirates (Games: PC)
Interplay announced that Taldren is developing a stand–alone mission pack for the Star Trek: Starfleet Command series. Star Trek: Starfleet Command – Orion Pirates enables gamers to control the Orion Pirates, which consist of eight cartels, each with unique histories, user interfaces, crew voices and identifying logos. The game features a 12–mission campaign, 26 skirmish missions and three A Piece of the Action inspired bonus missions. Starfleet Command – Orion Pirates will be available from 14 Degrees East in the second quarter of 2001.
Use Your InterSense at E3 (For Developers)
InterSense, Inc. will debut its immersive 3D game developers tool kit at E3. The InterTrax2 Game Developers Tool Kit includes InterSense’s InterTrax2 goggles and software, as well as tech support and middlewear. The tool kit provides 360 degree capabilities, as gamers explore and interact with their environments. InterSense will demo the product on flight simulators and first–person action games at the show, to demonstrate its power and precision. The company will be located in Kentia Hall, booth 7045.
Macrovision’s Piracy Solution (Technology)
Codemasters Ltd. licensed Macrovision’s SafeDisc CD–ROM Copy Protection Technology to protect its PC titles. SafeDisc is a software–based solution that is made up of two authenticating signatures embedded on the disc during the mastering/replication process; a multilayer encryption wrapper that secures the CD–ROM content; and anti–hacking code for extra security. If an unauthorized game is loaded, the digital signature can’t be found, and the copy will not play. What’s more, Macrovision’s API feature enables software publishers to embed game disabling features, which are activated when unauthorized copies are played.
PAN’s Bounty Hunter (Games: PC)
Swedish publisher and distributor, PAN Interactive, announced the September 29 worldwide release of Intergalactic Bounty Hunter. The episodic, real–time 3D–action/adventure title is being developed by Galactic Alliance, and is the first part in a trilogy for the PC. Intergalactic Bounty Hunter features six episodes; more than 30 levels; seven worlds; over 30 characters; third– and first–person viewpoints; traps and tracking; Sci–Fi–themed soundtrack and storyline; remote cameras; and a 50s–styled atmosphere. Players assume the role of a top agent within the Intergalactic Order of the Bounty Hunter (IOBH), and set out to bring criminals to justice. PAN will unveil the game for the first time at E3, in Kentia Hall, booth 6649.
A Dark Cloud Rises Over Sony (Games: PlayStation 2)
Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. announced the May 29 release of Dark Cloud for the PlayStation 2. The 3D action/adventure, role–playing game combines traditional exploration and battle elements with real–time strategy, world–building and puzzle–solving game play. Players assume the role of Toan, as they embark on an epic journey to rebuild villages, rescue townspeople, battle monsters, restore life and unlock the secrets of the land. Six different playable characters are located throughout the universe that can be unlocked with their own specific abilities and unique weapons. Dark Cloud introduces a new game play mechanic called GEORAMA that enables players to create, build, customize and use a new, fully interactive world — all in real–time.
Strategy First’s Virtual Battle (Games: PC)
Strategy First and Playnet.com step into a virtual battlefield with their recreation of World War II in an upcoming massively multiplayer online game. World War II Online pits tens of thousands of simultaneous players in land, air and sea combat. The title will be featured at E3 along with other PC titles including Disciples II: Dark Prophecy, Empire of the Ants, Nexagon: The Pit, O.R.B., Rails Across America and Zero–G Marines. The game will be on display in Infogrames’ booth 824, which is located in the South Hall.
It’s Power Rangers Time (Games: Multiplatform)
THQ Inc. shipped Power Rangers Time Force for the Game Boy Color. The game is based on Saban’s Power Rangers TV series, which airs on Fox Kids Network. As a member of the elite Power Rangers Time Force team, players explore multiple areas and experience different storylines throughout time, in action–based combat. Power Rangers Time Force will also be available on the PC this fall, along with Game Boy Advance and PlayStation. The PC version will enable players to assume the role of their favorite Power Ranger hero in a variety of arcade–style games.
Vivendi Teams Up with Fox (Games: Multiplatform)
Vivendi Universal Publishing and Fox Interactive signed a three–year, worldwide co–publishing deal. Under the agreement, Vivendi obtains exclusive rights to manufacture, market and distribute games for the PC and next–gen consoles. Six action/adventure titles will be released by Sierra including the award–winning PC title, No One Lives Forever ported over to the PlayStation 2; Aliens vs. Predator 2, Die Hard: Nakatomi Plaza and No One Lives Forever: The Sequel for the PC; COPS for the PlayStation 2 and Xbox; and Die Hard: Next Generation for the GameCube.
May 1———————————
Acclaim Takes Another Wild Ride (Games: Multiplatform)
Acclaim Entertainment announced that Z–Axis is currently developing the sequel to Dave Mirra Freestyle BMX, wherein players create their own rider and choose their own sponsors. The game features eight bigger and better interactive game environments; over 1,500 tricks to perform; a heart–pounding soundtrack; 10 multiplayer games; and the ESPN X–Games multimedal champion, "Miracle Boy" Mirra. Dave Mirra Freestyle BMX 2 will be available this fall for the PlayStation 2, GameCube and Xbox game consoles.
Eidos’ Special Deus (Games: PC)
Eidos Interactive announced the official shipdate for a special edition of the award–winning, first–person adventure, Deus Ex. The game will feature an updated version of the original’s single–player game play; a new multiplayer mode; a best–of–the–best remixed soundtrack; and a Software Development Kit for gamers to create their own missions or 3D maps. The Deus Ex: Game Of The Year Edition will be available for the PC beginning May 9.
An E3 Encore Presentation (FGN4Kids)
Encore Software Inc. and Brighter Child Interactive LLC will showcase their fall lineup of PlayStation, Game Boy Color and PC titles featuring Zoboomafoo, at E3. The games will be based on the Emmy Award nominated PBS KIDS’ wildlife TV show with the Kratt Brothers. The PlayStation and Game Boy Color versions will enable three– to eight–year–old kids to make animal friends, learn about their habitats and go on exciting adventures in Zoboomafoo’s favorite places. A new PC Zoboomafoo title will provide similar adventures and animal learning experiences, as well as eight educational activities focused on reading, math, logic and sorting skills. Encore will be located in the Kentia Hall, booth 7345.
A Game Boosting Economy (Industry Insights)
A recent study commissioned by the Interactive Digital Software Association revealed that the computer and video game industry is good for the economy. The Economic Impacts of the Demand for Computer and Video Games report found that 220,000 industry jobs were created in 2000, and nearly $9 billion in wages were accrued. The study also shows that the sale of games and related hardware generated an additional $10.5 billion in economic activity, and that last year’s sales more than doubled the growth rate of the U.S. economy as a whole.
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Immersion vs. Interact (Industry Insights)
Immersion Corporation and InterAct Accessories, Inc. have reached a settlement in their pending patent infringement lawsuit. Under the arrangement, InterAct will obtain a license, and Immersion will receive royalties for the sale of InterAct vibrotactile gamepads and steering wheel peripherals. In addition, InterAct will pay an undisclosed sum to Immersion to compensate for the previous sales of such devices. Finally, InterAct and Immersion will work together to develop new touch–enabled peripheral devices for InterAct to distribute.
Buckle Up and Hold On (Games: PC)
Interplay and 14 Degrees East shipped Off–Road Redneck Racing for the PC. The off–road racing game features 24 wild tracks set in six locations; a vicious AI opponent ; the ability to bump, smash and trash other Redneck’s; 16 off–road vehicles including Jeeps, pick–ups and Beetles; different light and weather conditions; challenge, beat the clock or championship modes; and Internet support for up to six players.
Paramount Invites You to Enter Lara Croft’s World (Games: Web)
Paramount Pictures launched a new Tomb Raider web site with a full–screen cinematic experience. The live action epic adventure is based on Eidos Interactive’s Tomb Raider game series, and features the beautiful and brainy heroine, Laura Croft (a.k.a. Angelina Jolie). iPIX technology enables visitors to explore 360 degree panoramas of over 50 different sets and locations such as Croft Manor, the temples of Angkor Wat and the glaciers of Siberia. To keep with the true spirit of a Tomb Raider adventure, entry to certain areas of Lara’s World requires a key that is found by solving 10 mind–bending puzzles. The site also contains links to the popular Tomb Raider trailers; an on–demand version of a live webcast from the set in November 2000; exclusive screensavers, wallpapers, video clips and interviews; new production stills; an archive of production sketches; and the movie’s official webring. Tomb Raider opens in theaters everywhere on June 15.
Sony’s Palm–Powered CLIE (Hardware & Peripherals)
Sony Electronics unveiled its second’gen Palm OS handheld, with an embedded digital audio player and front–lit reflective 320–by–320–pixel color screen. The newly designed CLIE PEG–N710C combines a rich multimedia experience, with the Palm’s easy–to–use functionality. Sony’s CLIE is equipped with an 8MB Memory Stick removable media card; headband–free earphones and remote control; a USB HotSync cradle/charger and AC travel adapter; a 33MHz Motorola Dragonball VZ processor; an internal lithium–ion polymer battery; added "Back" button to the original Jog Dial navigator; native MP3 and encoded–ATRAC3 playability; and various software additions. The new handheld will be available in June for less than $500.
In related news, Red Mercury announced that all of its games fully support Sony’s new CLIE. AcidSolitaire 2.0 is available now from Red Mercury’s web site, and will be included as a trial version within the new handheld. AcidFreecell 2.0 and Atom Smash 2.0 will be available May 28.
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Dinosaurs Race Before Time (Games: PlayStation)
TDK Mediactive, Inc. shipped The Land Before Time: Great Valley Racing Adventure for the PlayStation. The racing title features 3D environments, weather effects, variable skill levels and the dinosaurs from Universal Home Entertainment Productions’ animated video franchise. Young dinos must gallop, jump, dodge and use stone slabs and ice to slide through the game’s eight single–player courses or two–player tracks, while grabbing Treestar power–ups in the process.
A Super Off’beat Underwater Quest (Games: Multiplatform)
THQ Inc. and Nickelodeon will release SpongeBob SquarePants: SuperSponge for the Game Boy Advance and PlayStation this fall. These underwater adventures are based on Nickelodeon’s top–rated Saturday morning kids’ program. Players assume the role of SpongeBob, an incurably optimistic and earnest sea sponge, as he sets out on a quest to secure autographs for his friend Patrick Star. In exchange for their signatures, Mermaid Man and Barnacle Boy have SpongeBog complete outrageously funny tasks.
April 30———————————
Acclaim Frees BMX (Games: PlayStation)
Acclaim launched the official
Dave Mirra Freestyle BMX: Maximum Remix web site to showcase the company’s upcoming PlayStation title. The new site features a 3D Max virtual ramp, music links, screenshots, movies, wallpapers, rider bios and more. Dave Mirra Freestyle BMX: Maximum Remix will be available in May, starring the 10–time World Champion and 11–time X–Games medallist, Dave Mirra.
Activision Rides In with a Wakeboarding Pro (Industry Insights)
Activision, Inc. teamed up with Shaun Murray to develop next–gen games that are based on the professional sport of wakeboarding. As the development team’s technical advisor, Murray will provide his personal insights and signature style. Shaun Murray captured the gold at the Gravity Games International Championship, first place at the Vans Triple Crown and a silver medal at last year’s Summer X–Games.
Thunderbirds Cuts Wires (Games: Wireless)
Digital Bridges and SCi announced a partnership wherein Thunderbirds will be distributed across 21 leading mobile network operators in the UK, Europe, North America, Latin America and the Far East. The agreement is the first distribution deal between Digital Bridges and SCi’s newly formed division, SCi MobileMedia. A wireless version of Thunderbirds will be available later this year, and is the latest in a series of games from SCi that are based on the popular TV show of the same name. The first adventure game released in December 2000 for the Game Boy Color, while a Thunderbirds Fun Pack recently launched for the PC. In addition, Playstation 2 and Game Boy Advance versions of Thunderbirds are currently in development.
007 Gets Fired (Games: PlayStation 2)
Electronic Arts’ EA GAMES division is currently developing a first–person PlayStation 2 title based on MGM and Danjaq’s British secret agent, James Bond. Agent Under Fire will feature a PS2–original single–player storyline; action, stealth and driving game play; more than 10 exotic locations with challenging missions and objectives; an array of 007–inspired vehicles and automotive combat; a full arsenal of Q–lab weaponry and gadgets; detailed 3D environments; and multiplayer support for up to four players. Agent Under Fire will be available by the end of the year.
Interplay’s Day of Reckoning Approaches (Games: Xbox)
Interplay’s Digital Mayhem division announced the release of a third–person, gothic–style thriller for the Xbox. Hunter: The Reckoning is based on White Wolf Publishing’s popular role–playing game and its mystifying World of Darkness universe. The action–adventure title will feature a four–player cooperative multiplayer mode, and is being developed by High Voltage Software, Inc. with the AtlasTech Game Engine. Hunter: The Reckoning is scheduled to ship in the first quarter of 2002.
Sierra’s Real–Life Action Hero (Industry Insights)
Sierra teamed up with Jonny Drama to create and publish games that are based on the works and adventures of the famous G–man. Drama has appeared in more than 100 films throughout his career, and will provide Sierra with the exclusive inside information on his missions. Sierra’s first Jonny Drama title will focus on Drama’s transition from movie star to real–life secret agent, and his efforts to defeat the evil Dr. Bumbershoot.
SRS Interactive Audio (Technology)
SRS Labs will introduce a new interactive audio technology and game accessory at E3. The company’s Circle Surround Interactive (CSI) and WOW Technologies enable gamers to control the audio tracks and sound effects within a game, and stream multichannel audio tracks over low–bandwidth. In addition, SRS’ WOW Gamer transforms existing stereo games into multi–channel surround–sound. SRS Labs will be located in Kentia Hall, booth 6543.
Take–Two Budget Ops (Games: PlayStation)
Take–Two Interactive shipped Spec Ops Ranger Elite for the PlayStation. The company’s other budget title, Spec Ops Stealth Patrol, has sold over 800,000 units since its release last April. Players are part of elite corps of army rangers that work together to rescue hostages, liberate strongholds, divert shipments and disarm nuclear weapons. Spec Ops Ranger Elite retails for $9.99.
Terminal Reality Takes Flight Online (Games: PC)
Terminal Reality shipped the sequel to its award–winning flight simulator, Fly!. And to celebrate Fly!II’s arrival, Flight Enhancement Pack 1 is now available at IFlyTRI.com. New flights will continue to depart from Terminal Reality with more aircrafts, sceneries, maps, models, flight adventures and software updates.
THQ Battles the Force (Games: Handhelds)
THQ Inc. revealed the first Game Boy Advance product under its publishing agreement with LucasArts. Star Wars Jedi Power Battles features single and two–player mode; droids, destroyer droids, assassins and other familiar creatures from the Star Wars Episode I worlds; the all powerful Jedi Knights; 10 levels of game play; as well as a host of power boosts, new moves and enhanced capabilities. The game is being developed by HotGen Studios, and is scheduled to release this fall.
April 29———————————
CBS Has Another Survivor Pick (Games: Web)
MarketWatch.com added an interactive game to its Survivor Investment Contest Campaign with the help of Freestyle Interactive. In Crocs–N–Kanga, the trick is to avoid kangaroo–hungry crocodiles, as players hop across moving stock portfolios on a bar chart and try to land on the category that reaches the $1,000 value before time runs out. The game of Outback finance will run through the middle of May at survivor.marketwatch.com. Freestyle Interactive is a full–service digital media, marketing and advertising agency.
Enix’s Dragon Warrior Comes to the U.S. (Games: Multiplatform)
Enix America Inc. confirmed that Dragon Warrior VII will ship in North America for the PlayStation later this year. The epic RPG was released in Japan in August 2000 as Dragon Quest VII, and has already become Japan’s best–selling PlayStation game ever. Mastering time–traveling puzzles transports the game’s hero, his mischievous friend, Prince Kiefer, and the feisty Maribel back in time to solve mysteries and save the future. Enix upgraded the graphics of the Dragon Warrior series in Dragon Warrior VII to create 3D rendered backgrounds and fluid combat animation. Other games within the series include the previously released, Dragon Warrior I & II, and forthcoming titles, Dragon Warrior III and Dragon Warrior Monsters 2 — all for the Game Boy Color. In addition, Enix launched the official Dragon Warrior VII web site for anxious warriors at enix.com.
eSim’s Steel Beasts Makes Retail Debut (Games: PC)
Strategy First Inc. and eSim Games reached a worldwide retail publishing agreement for Steel Beasts. The award winning PC–based tank simulator is currently used at the U.S. Military Academy, West Point, to help train future armor officers. Steel Beasts is centered around the United States’ M1A1 Abrams battle tank, and Germany’s Leopard 2A4. Players have the opportunity to experience all the sights, sounds and challenges of modern mechanized warfare. In addition, multiplayer support enables any mission to be played online. Steel Beasts will be distributed in North America by Infogrames, and is scheduled to ship in May.
GodGames’ Rune Expands Online (Games: PC)
The Viking adventure continues with the release of a multiplayer expansion pack for Rune — the Norse mythology–inspired 3D action–adventure game using Epic Games’ Unreal Tournament game engine. Rune: Halls of Valhalla can be played as both a stand–alone multiplayer game, as well as an expansion to the original. Players will hack their way through new maps, game modes, animated creatures, combat styles and online multiplayer functionality. Rune: Halls of Valhalla was developed by Human Head Studios, published by GodGames and distributed by Jack of All Games.
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Microsoft Brings Voice to Games (Technology)
Microsoft Corp. released SideWinder Game Voice 1.3 Beta. The latest version enables testers to join server chats with ease via gamevoice.com or the software; modify parameters for voice commands to improve recognition; use timed macros to map multiple game actions to a single voice command; solve some NAT/Firewall issues through improved connectivity; and host or join chat sessions with increased reliability. Game Voice 1.3 Beta uses enhanced DirectX and DirectPlay APIs, and is not compatible with prior releases. Therefore, 1.3 users will no longer have the ability to chat with those players that are running earlier versions of the software, and vise versa.
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nGame’s Wireless Qwest (Games: Web)
nGame Ltd. inked a deal with Qwest Wireless to provide a channel of four wireless multiplayer games for web–enabled phones. The channel will feature nGame’s most popular titles including Alien Fish Exchange fish–breeding sim, Carrier Force naval combat, Merchant Princes medieval trading and Chop Suey Kung Fu martial arts combat for Qwest Wireless Users. The service is now live.
Developer Seeks Publisher (Games: PC)
The Representing Entertainers and Developers Agency (R.E.D.) has agreed to help independent game studio, 4D Rulers, find a publisher for its first–person shooter, Gore. The game’s multiplayer demo, which features three levels and characters, has obtained more than 500,000 downloads since its release on March 10. 4D Rulers plans to have the final version of Gore completed by the end of the year.
Ubi Unleashes Gamers (Conferences & Expositions)
Ubi Soft’s E3 plans include 15 never–before–seen titles, a unique booth theme and an exclusive
E3 web site with live updates. The show will be a great opportunity for Ubi Soft to showcase many of its 160 projects currently in development. Of this number, approximately 35 are for the PlayStation 2, 19 are for GameCube, 11 are for the Game Boy Advance and five are for the Xbox. Disney’s Tarzan, Batman: Vengeance, Myst III: Exile, Rayman M and Tom Clancy’s: Ghost Recon will receive prime exposure in Ubi’s "Unleash the Player in You" themed booth with 65 stations. Ubi Soft is now home to the catalog of titles from Blue Byte, The Learning Company’s Game Studios and Red Storm Entertainment. In addition, Ubi Soft launched a site that is devoted to the activities surrounding E3, complete with a countdown to the big event, a map of the booth, a live webcam, news bulletins, a behind–the–scenes in L.A. page and more. Ubi Soft will be located in the South Hall, booth 624.
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