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June 8———————————
A Bright Deal with Micro (Games: PC)
Brightstar Entertainment Ltd. and IncaGold inked a deal with Micro Mobility Systems. Under the agreement, the scooter manufacturer will help promote Brightstar/IncaGold’s newest title, Micro Scooter Challenge, with cross–marketing opportunities. The PC title will be on display wherever Micro scooters are sold. In turn, IncaGold has agreed to incorporate a small promotional software presentation within the game’s opening credits, and a flier inside the box. Screenshots for Micro Scooter Challenge are available on the IncaGold web site, and a demo will be available in the near future.
Solitaire Like Never Before (Games: PC)
Step aside Klondike, BVS Development released BVS Solitaire Collection 3.0. Topsy–Turvy Queens, Twelve Sleeping Maids, Napoleon Takes Moscow and Braid are just a few of the 190 Solitaire variations found within the software. Avid Solitaire–enthusiasts can track their performance and progress with the title’s plethora of statistical and scoring screens. In fact, players can even post their achievements in a Top Scores list on the web. A fully–functional trial copy of BVS Solitaire Collection 3.0 is available at
Bvssolitaire.com.
CDV’s Mystery Unfolds Again This Fall (Games: PC)
CDV announced the September 14 release date for The Mystery of the Druids in the U.S. and U.K. The point–and–click PC adventure combines real–world locations with a dark and sinister plot. Players assume the role of Brent Halligan — an inexperienced Scotland Yard detective. During his quest, Halligan discovers that the Druids have conjured up an ancient ritual to summon incredible powers. Human sacrifice, and treachery play a large part in the game. The Mystery of the Druids was previously released in Germany, and has been developed by House of Tales.
MTV Rocks Retail (Games: PlayStation 2)
Codemasters shipped MTV Music Generator 2 for the PlayStation 2. The PSOne sequel packs more memory, faster load times, an improved interface, twice as many simultaneous music channels and nearly 10,000 pre–recorded samples. Players can create original soundtracks from a vast library of sounds, and aspiring video directors can create original 3D videos to accompany their tracks. Players can also re–mix and edit tracks from various artists to make their own music, or jam with up to eight friends with the game’s real–time jamming mode. In addition, users can purchase the The MTV Music Generator 2 Sampler Kit, which enables players to record their own voice directly into their songs, or capture samples directly from CDs and other audio sources. The sampler kit will be sold separately via a mail order offer included in the game box, or online at Codemasters.com.
The Black Moon Cries Out This Fall (Games: Online)
Cryonetworks announced the November 2001 release of Black Moon Chronicles: Winds of War. The online massively multiplayer role–playing game takes players to a medieval universe in the grip of violent battles between Light, Empire, Justice and the malevolent armies of the Black Moon. The game holds true to the spirit of Froideval and Ledroit’s French graphic novels — complete with panels, captions and speech balloons. Black Moon Chronicles: Winds of War will support up to 500 players per server, and has been developed by VIRCOM. Preliminary game play graphics are available at Blackmoon–online.com.
Sports Fans Turned Pro (Games: PC)
Infogrames shipped Rules of the Game for the PC. The game show empowers would–be referees, quarterbacks, pitchers and golf–pros to "make the call" in various sporting situations based on the rules governing that particular pastime. Rules of the Game tests the knowledge of up to four players simultaneously in the areas of pro and college basketball, pro and college football, pro baseball, pro golf and one miscellaneous category. All 1,500 brain–busting questions and scenarios are up–to–date, and true to official professional and collegiate rules. Rules of the Game is hosted by Joe Banks, and has been developed by Random Games.
Will Nintendo’s Niche Continue? (Games: Handheld)
Get ready, set, Game Boy Advance! Nintendo’s latest portable gaming phenomenon hits store shelves across North America on Monday, June 11. However, the company’s stake in the handheld game market could be threatened in the years to come, with the proliferation of games on cell phones, and PDAs filling the pockets of consumers worldwide. Companies such as THQ, and start–ups such as ZioSoft are hedging their bets on the wireless front for adults. Meanwhile, Sony and Microsoft may try to spin off portable versions of their game consoles. Not to fret, Nintendo still dominates the global handheld game market, and has for years with more than a 90 percent share. In fact, Game Boy hardware and software accounted for 23 percent of the company’s total worldwide revenue last year. The original Game Boy model, and subsequent Game Boy Color have sold a combined 110 million units since the line’s debut in 1989. And despite some valiant efforts by hardware makers, cell phones just aren’t as "thumb–friendly" as the Game Boy’s control buttons. Nevertheless, time will tell!
Ozzfest’s Twisted Metal (Event)
Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc.’s upcoming PlayStation 2 title, Twisted Metal: Black will co–sponsor the Ozzfest 2001 music tour this summer. The car combat will be predominately displayed throughout the tour, with characters and imagery from the game featured around the main stage. In addition, Sony will provide PlayStation 2 kiosks showcasing Twisted Metal: Black at each of the Ozzfest venues, and will have a customized 68–foot truck decked out with fully–equipped PlayStation 2 systems. Ozzfest will hit more than 25 cities, and features a stellar lineup of heavy metal bands including Black Sabbath, Marilyn Manson, Slipknot, Papa Roach, Linkin Park, Crazy Town, Zakk Wylde’s Black Label Society, Disturbed and many more.
WWII Online Wreaks Havoc (Games: PC)
Playnet.com, Cornered Rat Software and Strategy First announced today that they will be "stopping the clocks" on the free 30–day trial period for World War II Online: Blitzkrieg. Since the game’s June 5 release, Strategy First has been inundated with reports of lines outside major retailers, and people sending multiple copies to friends or families abroad. In fact, retail managers report that "they haven’t seen such excitement over a game in 10 years." Strategy First expected sales to reach over a hundred thousand copies within the next few months, but were surprised to discover that almost a third of their projected sales were reached on the first day. As a result, Playnet.com servers have been temporarily affected by the large numbers of war hero wannabes attempting to register. Playnet expects to increase its capacity very shortly. In addition, Strategy First has also received reports that people are experiencing problems getting into the game. This is NOT a software related problem, rather it’s a hardware issue that Cornered Rat Software is currently addressing. Strategy First has established an online forum that will post official news and updates from the WWII Online development team, as they become available. World War II Online: Blitzkrieg is a cross–genre game that combines first–person shooter, role–playing, strategy and simulation game play. Strategy First and Playnet.com will make an announcement to inform players of when the 30–day trial period will commence again. Until that time, players will not suffer any loss of "free online play". More info.
June 7———————————
Acclaim’s Furry Battle (Games: PlayStation 2)
Acclaim Entertainment, Inc. shipped Fur Fighters: Viggo’s Revenge for the PlayStation 2. This action–filled adventure features more than 30 levels set in six progressively tougher worlds; over 25 characters; 20 bizarre weapons; all–new enemies and power–ups; and 15 multiplayer Fluffmatches with four–player split–screen support. Fur Fighters: Viggo’s Revenge has been developed by Bizzare Creations.
Activision’s Police Chase and Chart Topper (Games: PlayStation)
Activision Inc. shipped World’s Scariest Police Chases for the PlayStation. Players assume the role of a police officer in this no–holds–barred driving game based on the popular FOX television show. The title features over 20 missions full of law–breaking criminals to apprehend; 13 different vehicles to navigate through an interactive city; a two–player cooperative mode; and the same TV commentary from retired sheriff, John Bunnell. World’s Scariest Police Chases has been developed by Big Ape, and produced by FOX Interactive.
In related news, Activision’s Mat Hoffman’s Pro BMX continues to top the U.S. sell–through charts for the second consecutive week. According to NPD’s TRSTS Data, the game ranked as the No. 1 best–selling PlayStation title, and No. 9 video game overall for the week ending May 26.
WeGot Airborne Games (Games: Wireless)
Airborne Entertainment announced the official launch of WeGot Games for WAP and SMS users. The WeGot Games channel features nine addictive wireless games, and the North American debut of England’s Hailstorm Entertainment Ltd. The following titles are currently available through the PocketBoxOffice Micro–Entertainment Network: an alphanumeric code–breaking challenge, Alpha Hack; a bubble–blowing contest, Bubble Blast; an adaptation of the classic four–in–a–row style games, Row4; a strategy puzzle based on the ancient Chinese game of Nim, Lastone; a race against time, WAP Diver; an intellect and sanity challenge of fact or fiction, Half Truths; game of absurd alternatives and deranged dilemmas, Would You Rather...?; a series of seven games of categorizing, This or That; and a Thesaurus–inspired title, Mission Definition. Hailstorm is one of Europe’s hottest mobile games developers.
EA Scores Two Pros (Games: Multiplatform)
Electronic Arts signed Minnesota Vikings Pro Bowl quarterback and former Florida State quarterback to their Madden and NCAA lineups. Minnesota’s, Daunte Culpepper, will become EA SPORTS’ spokesman for Madden NFL 2002, while Florida’s, Chris Weinke, will grace the cover of NCAA Football 2002. Culpepper was the Viking’s first round draft pick in 1999. He completed 297 of 474 attempts, and 33 touchdowns during the 2000 season. Weinke, a recent draft pick for the Carolina Panthers, won the 2000 Heisman Memorial Trophy. In addition, he was the ACC player of the year at Florida State University last season. Madden NFL 2002 will be available for the PC, PlayStation, PlayStation 2 and Nintendo 64 late this summer, as well as the Xbox and GameCube this fall. NCAA Football 2002 will debut on the PlayStation 2 in late July.
Antaeus Rises to Gold (Games: PC)
Interplay’s 14º East division announced that Hostile Waters: Antaeus Rising has gone gold. The real–time strategy game has been developed by Rage Software for the PC. Antaeus Rising blends traditional resource management and unit control, with third person game play aboard 15 different vehicles.
Call IT a Joint Mobile Adventure (Games: Wireless)
Two interactive game industry veterans, Tom Dusenberry and Tony Parks, joined forces to form a wireless entertainment business. Call IT Entertainment will focus on the development and marketing of content for wireless devices. Their joint venture will utilize their combined 50 years’ experience to serve carriers, operators, service and gateway providers globally. The duo fueled the growth of PC and video games publisher, Hasbro Interactive. In their new roles, Dusenberry will serve as chief executive officer, while Parks will serve as chief operating officer.
REZN8’s Xbox Interface (Industry Insights)
Microsoft selected the REZN8 digital design and communications company to help create the Xbox Dashboard’s look and feel. The console’s navigation interface enables hardcore gamers to interact with the Xbox’s system options to adjust various game settings and devices. The Xbox Dashboard appears once the game slot is empty, or a CD or DVD has been loaded.
Alien Games on the Brain (For Developers)
NxN Software launched an innovative remote access server module. Location–independent access to data and project status is crucial for game development teams spread out among various locales. The new alienbrain remote access server enables developers and project managers to share information with their cross–site teams via the Internet. In addition, the alienbrain web server utilizes sophisticated encryption technology to ensure secure data exchanges.
Worlds Apart Joins Skotos (Games: Web)
Skotos Tech has agreed to publish Worlds Apart’s text–based online virtual world game, The Eternal City (TEC). Skotos is an online storytelling community of text–based games, and game–building tools. Midlight, the fantasy world of TEC, is based on ancient Republican Rome. Players assume the roles of Patricians, Legionaries, Gladiators, Constables, Thieves, Priests and many other colorful character types. TEC is now a member of the Skotos community, and is available here.
RealArcades’ Latest Multiplayer Strategy (Games: Web)
VR1 Entertainment’s massively multiplayer online game, Evernight, will be available through RealNetworks’ RealArcade gaming service. The turn–based strategy title is set in a fantastical world of armies, monsters and supernatural warfare. As each game unfolds, players negotiate, trade emails, scheme, plot and ally with other tacticians. Evernight is set entirely within a browser, which enables players to make their moves from anywhere they can access the Internet. All orders and battles are calculated at a predetermined time each day. More info.
June 6———————————
CPL Sponsors CAL (Industry Insights)
The Cyberathlete Professional League (CPL) parent company, NewWorld.com, Inc., now owns a controlling interest in the Cyberathlete Amateur League (CAL). Frank Nuccio, has been named president of CAL, and will be in charge of the league’s daily operations. Mike Wardwell will assume the commissioner role for both the CPL and CAL online leagues. CAL’s future plans include a membership program, new site design and the launch of other game divisions. The CPL will manage CAL’s new corporate sponsorship program. More info.
Host Returns Formula One Data (Game: PlayStation)
Data Return Corporation has been selected by Forma Communications to manage the promotional web site for Sony Europe’s PlayStation racing title, Formula One 2001. As the game site’s producer, Forma believes that Data Return’s hosting services are well suited to meet the complex technical requirements of the interactive site. Players in 16 European countries are invited to submit their time–trial laptime, and determine how they rank in national league tables. The top 16 national times will then proceed to the playoffs, wherein a winner will be selected to race against the rest of the world for the PlayStation Formula One 2001 World Champion title. The Formula One 2001 site went live on May 25 in the U.K. to coincide with the release of the game. More info.
EA’s Web Assault (Games: PC)
Electronic Arts prepares for its finest hour with a PC version of the famed PlayStation war hero, Medal of Honor. The Medal of Honor Allied Assault official web site went live today, and marks the anniversary of the Allied landings at Omaha Beach. Medal of Honor fans will find movies, screenshots and the exclusive E3 trailer for the upcoming Quake III–powered WWII shooter. Medal of Honor Allied Assault is scheduled to release this fall.
Infogrames Works Its Dragon Ball Wizardry (Games: Game Boy Advance)
Infogrames Inc.’s WizardWorks division shipped The Legacy of Goku for the Game Boy Advance. The action/adventure title has been developed by Webfoot Technologies, and is based on the popular Dragon Ball Z anime sensation. Players are challenged to defeat enemies throughout various quests in an effort to save Earth from the Saiyans, and the galaxy from the Evil Frieza.
JoWooD Stings Burglars (Games: PC)
JoWooD Productions announced the June 30 release of The Sting! for the PC. The role–playing game challenges players to take on the most spectacular, and stylish robbery ever. Aspiring thieves will need to know the "right" people to succeed, and to maintain their notorious reputation. The game features a massive virtual town with passers–by, traffic and a taxi system; 20 prime locations to burgle; over 50 different get–away vehicles; and various security systems to overcome. More info.
Mario’s Traveling Party (Games: Nintendo)
LodgeNet Entertainment Corporation announced the availability of Mario Party 3 in all Nintendo 64–equipped hotels throughout the U.S. and Canada. Nintendo’s latest Mario Party release features five new game boards, and 70 new minigames. Mario Party 3 joins Dr. Mario 64, Paper Mario, Mario Tennis, and more than 30 other N64 titles. LodgeNet’s On–demand N64 game service will be on display June 26–28 at the Hospitality Industry Technology Exposition & Conference (HITEC), in Orlando, Florida.
Sega Sells to China (Games: PC)
Sega Corp. announced plans to release PC games in China through an alliance with Merix Interactive Entertainment. Sega will unveil the company’s first two Chinese–language titles on June 15. In the past, Sega removed itself from the Chinese game software market due to concerns about illegal copying. With the Chinese government’s increased efforts to protect software copyrights, Sega plans to launch more than 13 Chinese–language versions of its existing titles for the PC this year alone. In addition, Sega intends to capture 10 percent of the Chinese game software market by this time next year.
Ripley’s Believe It or Not Trivia (Games: PC)
Sierra shipped Ripley’s Believe It or Not!. The trivia game challenges players to answer hundreds of unusual questions based on Ripley’s archives in an effort to accumulate more IQ Points than their counterparts. The game features original Ripley photographs, music and trivia; a multiplayer option for up to four gamers; stylized graphics and animations; four question types with 750 brain–benders; 50 bewildering games; and the celebrity voice of Jack Palance. In addition, coupons for five free tickets to any Ripley’s Believe It or Not! museum have been packaged with the game.
Heroic ICO Tale (Games: PlayStation 2)
Sony Computer Entertainment America announced the summer release of ICO for the PlayStation 2. Sony promises to offer "a unique interactive experience," with dazzling graphics, an immersive storyline and a unified combination of adventures, role–playing, fighting, puzzles and strategy elements.
June 5———————————
THQ Advances GT Racing and Tops Charts (Games: Multiplatform)
THQ Inc. shipped GT Advance Championship Racing for the Game Boy Advance. The handheld racing title features more than 40 authentic cars with parts that can be upgraded from eight leading car manufacturers; hidden cars with varying acceleration, top speeds and overall handling; 32 tracks; and head–to–head racing capabilities with the Game Boy Advance link cable.
In related news, THQ announced that its PlayStation 2 action thriller, Red Faction, was the No. 1 selling video game in the U.S. for the week ending May 26. According to NPD Group, Red Faction sold through more than 60,000 units during its first four days of availability. Red Faction shipped on May 22.
WWII Combat 24x7 (Games: PC)
Strategy First and Playnet.com shipped World War II Online: Blitzkrieg. This cross–genre, massively multiplayer online game combines first–person shooter, simulation, role–playing and strategy–styled game play. Players battle on land, air and sea by commanding tanks, piloting combat aircraft, or fighting in the infantry/marines. WWII Online: Blitzkrieg features a combat system that requires the three main branches of service to interact and organize together in order to gain ground, or fight off an attack from the enemy.
Millionaire’s 3rd Edition (Games: PlayStation)
Sony Computer Entertainment shipped Who Wants To Be A Millionaire: 3rd Edition for the PlayStation. The game features a two–player Fastest Finger round; 15 progressively challenging questions to answer; the TV game show’s Ask the Audience, Phone–A–Friend or 50/50 Lifelines; and Regis Philbin’s how to play the game, phone–in banter and "... is that your final answer?" Unlike the television version, players can always try again from the beginning. This third edition of Millionaire is based on the original CD–ROM title released in November 1999, which became the fastest–selling PC game of all time.
Sega and Sony Link Up (Industry Insights)
According to Reuters, Sega and Sony have teamed up to enable users of the DreamCast and PlayStation 2 to play games via the Internet. The agreement with Sega is part of Sony’s online strategy, and desire to make the PlayStation 2 more than just a game machine. Sega plans to release a new version of its online software series in August for the Dreamcast. The PlayStation 2 and PC versions will follow thereafter. Sega is also discussing similar deals with Nintendo and Microsoft.
Midway Hitz the Ice (Games: Multiplatform)
Midway Sports Asylum announced that Black Box Games, Ltd. is developing NHL Hitz 20–02 for the PlayStation 2, Xbox and GameCube. The adrenaline–style, 4–on–4 hockey game, will feature lightning–fast game play; play–by–play commentary, a "never–before–seen" interactive 3D crowd and Midway’s classic "on–fire mode." In addition, mini games with authentic NHL super skills competitions allows players to test their wizardry before games, while multiplayer hockey enables up to six gamers to battle it out head–to–head on the ice. NHL Hitz 20–02 is scheduled to ship this winter.
Microsoft Quenches the Xbox Thirst (Games: Xbox)
Microsoft announced a strategic marketing partnership with South Beach Beverage Company (SoBe). Under the agreement, playable Xbox consoles will be added to SoBe’s nationwide Love Buses tour, and SoBe drinks will be featured in the upcoming Oddworld: Munch’s Oddysee Xbox title. Vending machines will be positioned throughout the game to serve as power–ups for Abe and Munch. In addition, gamers can enter to win a custom surfboard package, Cannondale mountain bike, or other cool prizes from Xbox and SoBe until June 30 at Xbox.com/sobe. Grand prize winners will be selected every other week.
Startopia Goes Gold (Games: PC)
Eidos Interactive announced that Startopia has gone gold. The space station sim is scheduled to release June 19. In the meantime, gamers can test out the upcoming sci–fi adventure’s playable demo at Eidosinteractive.com.
BusinessWeek’s Hot 100 List (Industry Insights)
BusinessWeek featured two gaming–related companies in its latest issue. The magazine’s 100 Hot Growth Companies List for 2001 identifies and ranks publicly held companies based on their earnings growth, return on invested capital and three–year results in tax growth. nVidia Corporation ranked No. 2 in sales growth, and No. 17 in the overall listing. Meanwhile, Take–Two Interactive ranked No. 3 for sales, and No. 24 overall. In addition, BusinessWeek estimates that nVidia’s market value is a near $5.5 Billion, while Take–Two’s value is just over the $500 Million mark. More info.
Army Men Advance to Retail (Games: Game Boy Advance)
The 3DO Company shipped Army Men Advance for the Game Boy Advance. The game features four different gaming styles, and 12 different adventures. Players assume the role of Sarge or Vikki, as they adventure through challenging platform levels, extreme arcade shooting, strategic puzzle solving and mind–blowing mazes to find the evil General of the Tan Army. 3DO’s Army Men brand has already sold more than six million copies worldwide across six different platforms, with several hundred thousand units alone on the Game Boy Color.
June 4———————————
3DO Patches High Heat (Games: PC)
The 3DO Company released Patch 1.1 for its PC version of High Heat Major League Baseball 2002. A host of bug fixes with the 2001 season converter and rosters have been addressed; Wrigley Field and Metrodome’s collision data has been updated; and the minimum game install now plays in software mode. More Info.
Commander Keen’s Quest of the Cosmos (Games: Game Boy Color)
id Software and Activision shipped Commander Keen for the Game Boy Color. The scrolling platform title is based on id’s Commander Keen series for the PC, and features three unique alien worlds, multilevel maps, 35 different, mega-bosses, puzzles, slime pits, magical platforms, secret rooms and teleporters.
Analog Devices Inside Intel (Audio)
Analog Devices, Inc.’s PC audio subsystem, SoundMAX with SPX technologies, is now available on Intel’s D815EEA2 and D815EFV desktop motherboards. OEMs, integrators and resellers will be able to use the new Intel desktop boards to offer an integrated PC audio solution, at a fraction of what a PCI soundcard would cost. In addition, Analog Devices announced that Guillemot/Hercules, Mediatek and TerraTec have each released Communications Network Riser (CNR) soundcards that support the new SoundMAX-enabled desktop boards.
A Musical Roller Derby (Games: Web)
The Verve Music Group’s Blue Thumb Records label launched an interactive game that features the music from Action Figure Party’s self–titled debut album. Action Figure Party: Roller Derby Madness is a Flash 5–based, single-player game, wherein players race to the finish line as The Torch – a recreation of the figure on the front of Action Figure Party’s music CD. The object of the game is to score points by "flaming" the other characters in the game, while obtaining bonus points and energy from martinis throughout the game. In addition, the top 200 high—scoring games at Bluethumb.com will be eligible for a random drawing of a Sony DVD system.
Legends of Testers Wanted and Selected (Games: PC)
Maximum Charisma Studios selected the first 1000 gamers for Fighting Legends’ Beta testing, which begins today. Phase One for the RPS title will involve hardware compatibility, server load and game play feature testing. Phase Two will begin in July, with an additional 4000 testers. Meanwhile, applications are still being accepted for the third phase of testing in August at Mcszone.com.
Links Tee’s Off An Expansion (Games: PC)
Microsoft’s Links 2001 Expansion Pack is now appearing on select store shelves nationwide. Full distribution of the add–on pack is expected this week. Professional golfers, Mike Weir and Keith Clearwater, join Sergio Garcia, Arnold Palmer and Annika Sorenstam on four additional courses. The Links 2001 Expansion Pack also includes new course design tools to help players create their own courses with the Arnold Palmer Course Designer (APCD), as well as the Links 2001 Course Converter that enables players to convert up to 36 Links LS courses for play with Links 2001.
Midway Gets Ready 2 Rumble (Games: Game Boy Advance)
Midway Sports Asylum shipped Ready 2 Rumble Boxing: Round 2 for the Game Boy Advance. The handheld version features 11 characters including Ready 2 Rumble franchise fighters, Afro Thunder and Jet "Iron" Chin, along with new–comers to the circuit, Robox RESE–4 and Mama Tua. Ready 2 Rumble Boxing: Round 2 Game Boy Advance features a password system, four game play modes, enhanced graphics, rumble flurry, two hidden boxers to unlock, training games and Michael Buffer’s "Let’s Get Ready to Rumble."
Sony’s Java–enriched Console (Industry Insights)
Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. announced that Sun’s Java platform will be integrated into the PlayStation 2 by the end of the year. With this addition, PlayStation 2 owners will be able to access the millions of Java applications that currently exist on the Internet. In addition, the availability of Java on the PlayStation 2 provides easy connection and communication with other Java–enabled clients such as wireless handsets, PDAs, interactive televisions and other network devices.
Seeking Railroad Barons (Games: PC)
Strategy First and Flying Lab Software are looking for strategy gamers and railroad fans to Beta test Rails Across America. In order to qualify, barons must sign a Non–Disclosure Agreement (NDA), be able to download the builds and possess at least a Pentium 233 with 64 megs of RAM. More info.
THQ’s Search for Atlantis (Games: Game Boy Color)
THQ Inc. shipped Disney’s Atlantis: The Lost Empire for the Game Boy Color. The title is based on Disney’s animated film, which is due in theaters June 15. Players journey to find the lost city of Atlantis in 10 levels of game play, as Milo, Vinny, Moliere or Audrey. Each of the four playable characters possess their own unique abilities to fend off enemies, and overcome spike pits, rolling boulders or steam jets. In addition, an all–new Disney’s Atlantis: The Lost Empire adventure is scheduled for release on the Game Boy Advance this fall.
Activision’s Hole–in–One Value Title (Games: PC)
Activision Value Publishing released Golf Resort Tycoon for the PC. The game takes golf, and non–golf enthusiasts behind the scenes of the sport, as they create, manage and maintain their own ultimate golf resort — complete with clubhouses, pro shops and course hazards. Players have a variety of environments to choose from including a forest, a desert oasis, a mountainous setting, a tropical paradise island or an autumn wooded terrain. As with any sim, players have to design a course that is attractive, economical and profitable, while keeping the guests happy and maximizing profits.
CPL–s Registration and Backgrounder (Event)
Registration for The Cyberathlete Professional League (CPL)–s $150,000 World Championship Event opens today. Team captains can enter their entire team at the same time using the site–s redesigned system. In addition, CPL is offering a $25 discount for those teams that register five to seven members at once. The CPL event will be held December 6 through December 9, with up to 2,000 people from 30 different countries.
In related news, the Gathering of Developers posted a feature article to their web site, which offers background information on CPL, and details about the upcoming anniversary event in the memory of Doug Myres. CPL–s 4–Year Anniversary Event will take place June 28 to July 1, at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Dallas, Texas.
eGames Gets Into Streaming (Industry Insights)
eGames, Inc. unveiled a marketing deal with Into Networks. Under the agreement, eGames will provide select, top–selling titles to Into Networks. Utilizing the IntoMedia platform, eGames will be able to deliver product directly to broadband and cable modem subscribers, on a rental or subscription/fee basis. According to Into Networks, users spend an average of 136 minutes per month on computer game rentals, and have a 10 percent conversion rate from rental to purchase.
Semtech Powers Xbox at Launch (Industry Insights)
Semtech Corp. inked a deal with Microsoft to supply multiple proprietary power management controllers for use in the Xbox. Semtech’s semiconductor components will be used to provide high–efficiency power conversion and regulation in the game system’s high–speed main circuit board.
A Golden 3D Assault (Games: PC)
Shrapnel Games’ Remote Assault has gone gold. The futuristic, real–time 3D wargame has been developed by One Games, and is expected to ship July 9. Pre–orders placed at Shrapnel Games’ web site prior to June 22, affords gamers a $5.00 rebate on the retail price of the game.
THQ’s Matchbox Rescue (Games: Game Boy Color)
THQ Inc. shipped Matchbox Emergency Patrol for the Game Boy Color. This is the first release under the worldwide publishing agreement announced earlier this year with Mattel, wherein THQ obtained the exclusive rights to the Matchbox and Hot Wheels brands. The game features more than 24 different rescue missions. Players can assume the role of either police officer or fire fighter, and set out to become Matchbox County’s fire or police chief. Matchbox Emergency Patrol for the PC is scheduled to release this summer.
Ubi Mysts the Charts (Games: PC)
Ubi Soft Entertainment announced that Myst III: Exile sold more than 75,000 units in the game’s first two weeks at retail. According to PC Data, the title secured the No. 1 position in the PC games’ charts in both unit sales and dollar sell–through for the weeks of May 6 and May 13. In addition, the Myst III: Exile Collectors Edition reached the top 10 in unit sales, and the top five in dollar sell–through for the same weeks. Myst III: Exile’s overwhelming success positions Ubi Soft in third place for sales among all game publishers.
May 31———————————
THQ Aims High (Industry Insights)
NPD’s TRSTS Video Games Summary ranked THQ Inc. as the No. 2 independent software publisher, and No. 3 software publisher overall for the month of April. THQ captured 6.4 percent of the U.S. console market — compared to 5.8 percent for the same period last year. The company trails behind Nintendo and Electronic Arts.
Golden Combat Command (Games: PC)
Shrapnel Games’ Combat Command 2: Desert Rats has gone gold, with a full spectrum of grand tactical desert warfare. The latest addition to the Combat Command 2 series has been developed by Boku Strategy Games, and is expected to ship July 6. Pre–orders placed at Shrapnel Games’ web site prior to June 21 affords gamers a $5.00 rebate on the retail price of the game.
Microplay’s Yummy–powered PC Rentals are Hip (Games: Online)
Hip Interactive’s Corp. wholly owned subsidiary, Microplay.com, launched an online game rental service. The Canadian–based online retailer of video game hardware, software and accessories, will now feature top–selling PC games as rentals. Utilizing Yummy Interactive’s streaming technology, gamers can access brand name titles without downloading a full copy of the software, which preserves valuable hard drive space for the user.
CodeWarrior’s Latest Intent (For Developers)
Metrowerks and the Tao Group have teamed up to enable application and content development for a variety of consumer appliances from Sharp, JVC and Grundig. Under the agreement, Metrowerks will provide CodeWarrior development tools for Tao’s intent portable media platform. Tao’s technology enables developers to create multimedia Java content such as 3D video games that run on connected digital appliances. The first CodeWarrior for intent products will be available in the fourth quarter of 2001.
Kellogg’s Roddy Fight (Games: Online)
Kellogg Creek Software, Inc. announced a working partnership between award–winning game designer, Randy Chase, and professional wrestling legend, Rowdy Roddy Piper. Roddy’s Ring will combine several role–playing elements with a quick–paced strategy game that challenges players to outwit their opponent. The Internet–only title will follow SpiritWars’ business model, and features an unlimited free–play, or enhanced pay–to–play option for the avid player. The free version is expected before Christmas.
Disney Saddles Up with Pixar (Games: PC)
Disney Interactive announced the release of Disney/Pixar’s Jessie’s Wild West Rodeo. The PC adventure provides a creative 3D experience that encourages kids ages five and up to explore the wild west with their favorite characters from the animated film, Toy Story 2. The game features three arcade–style, rodeo events with 10 exciting levels, wherein aspiring cowboys and girls earn badges or Critter Awards. In addition, they
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