yeah, I saw this and had a WTF? moment… but for the sake of my news-bound responsibility to deliver gaming news, here’s a link
http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20080604/music_nm/metallica_dc
it’s from yahoo, and I don’t have permission to post their stories on my site.
-e
EDIT 2008-06-04: another link found to this story: http://stereogum.com/archives/video-games/and-guitar-hero-for-all_010183.html sounds like they believe it.
-e
New York, NY June 3, 2008 - - Viva Media announced today that it will bring to retail several games developed by German game developer Tivola. Included in the deal for 2008 publication are Dream Job: Babysitter, Happy Tails: Animal Shelter, Doggie Daycare, and The Enchanted Unicorn. Viva Media Carlo Voelker commented, “We are thrilled to be working with Tivola again. Each game in the deal offers superb quality and inventive game play.” These games will expand Viva’s line up of high quality games even further in the kids category and complement the company’s evergreen backlist. Tivola CEO, Christopher Koeppler added, “We have a great track record with Viva Media and we are delighted to sign even more titles with them for PC.” Several other games are also included in the deal that are slated for 2009 publication.
Ankama is proud to announce the launch of the closed Beta version of Wakfu, its next tactical MMORPG. Scheduled for a Q4 release, the Java sequel to DOFUS is now entering its final development stage.
Improving the turn-based fighting system of DOFUS even further, Wakfu sets a new standard in massively multiplayer online games with its combination of battle tactics and role playing.
Set a thousand years after DOFUS, Wakfu sees the rise of the terrible Ogrest, an Ogre who has become the equal of the gods after gathering the six powerful dragon eggs called Dofus. The land of Amakna has now been flooded by the tears of Ogrest, as he pines for his lost love.
Being an atypical MMO, Wakfu features never seen before elements.The most important feature is clearly the absence of non player characters (NPCs), Wakfu will also establish a sophisticated political system where appointed player-governors will rule the various islands and their peers.
‘Ecology will also be of utmost importance in the game, and players will have to act in order to keep their world alive and blooming.’ Says Anthony Roux, co-founder and Director of Creation.
This first version of the Beta features five of the twelve character classes. The first stepping stone in a global crossmedia project, Wakfu looks likely to set a new standard for online entertainment.
Closed Beta access keys will be distributed on partner websites where contests will be organized.
Players can already register in order to get newsletters about the evolution of the Beta, and to get a chance to be chosen on www.wakfu.com
Wakfu
www.wakfu.com
Wakfu is an innovative massively multiplayer online role-playing game which combines the logic of a tactical video game and the dynamics of real time action. In the same spirit that animates its big brother, DOFUS, Wakfu will transport you to a magical universe full of sparkling humor. This long-awaited game will offer players a unique experience which should stir up the genre.
Science and Entertainment Fused Together for Unique Brain Training Regimen
VANCOUVER, Canada - June 3, 2008 Vivity Labs today announced the official launch of its all-new brain fitness platform available at www.fitbrains.com. Fit Brains hosts a variety of fun, casual games developed by brain health experts, proven to improve brain function while targeting the five major cognitive brain functions – memory, concentration, language, executive functions (logic and reasoning), and visual-spatial skills. Research has shown that the brain begins to slow down as early as age 25 but with regular brain exercise, it can create new neural connections and pathways at any age.
Fit Brains is designed by award-winning Neuroscientist Dr. Paul Nussbaum from University of Pittsburgh and supported by a board of scientific advisors. The team behind Fit Brains has identified the tools necessary to engage and motivate users of all ages, providing individual workouts that can be played alone or against friends and family with leader boards for players in need of a competitive edge. Fit Brains is also home to Dr. Nussbaum’s blog where he discusses the most up-to-date trends, research and news about brain health and awareness.
“Fit Brains is designed to be fun, personal and practical,” said Dr. Paul Nussbaum, co-founder and chief scientific advisor. “Our goal is to motivate users to integrate brain fitness into their everyday routine.”
“Parents, teachers and bosses who frown upon video games will smile upon Fit Brains,” said Michael Cole, founder and CEO. “It’s the best kind of gaming that anyone can do; the kind that makes the brain quicker, sharper, and better at reasoning and deduction.”
Players can choose to engage in Free Play, Recommended Play or Brain Circuits (3, 7 and 30 days). Users’ game performance will be integrated into their unique user profile, which will allow them to track progress over time in each of the brain function categories using the site’s Brain Charts. Each user profile will offer personalized brain fitness metrics and feedback tailored to the individual. They will even be able to earn trophies and rewards for in-game activities through the Award System.
The Fit Brains management team and advisory board includes doctors, entrepreneurs, and game-industry veterans who have combined forces with Vivity Labs to produce the highest-quality gaming destination on the web. Fit Brains’ games draw on the expertise of the doctors on its board, as well as the growing body of research in brain science to create gaming experiences that foster positive brain health and function. The brain has been proven to act like a muscle in the respect that with regular exercise and training, it can become stronger.
For more information please visit www.fitbrains.com
QoreTM: Presented By The PLAYSTATION® NETWORK to be the first-ever interactive HD program available through a games console
Launch sponsors include BURGER KING®, Universal Pictures, Activision and Codemasters
South San Francisco, CA (June 3, 2008) – Future US, Inc, the leading publisher of cutting-edge special interest magazines and websites, announced today that it has an exclusive development agreement to produce a monthly digital program to be delivered across Sony Computer Entertainment America (SCEA)’s PLAYSTATION® Network. Future US holds the exclusive right to sell advertising on the program, which will debut on PLAYSTATION® Network on June 5, 2008.
Powered by Future’s renowned editorial staff and developed on its proprietary Future Distributed Media Initiative (FDMI), Qore™: Presented By The PLAYSTATION® Network marks the first time gamers can download interactive high-definition games coverage directly through their console’s broadband connection for viewing on their living-room TV screen. Qore will be supported by an innovative ad model that incorporates HD rich-media advertisements such as trailers, interstitials, and contextual ads into the presentation.
Future US is the publisher of PlayStation®: The Official Magazine, which premiered in the US in November 2007. Like the magazine, Qore™ will offer users unprecedented access to the world of PlayStation®. Content will include exclusive playable demos, game previews, strategies and interviews with developers and key industry figures.
For advertisers desiring to reach gamers in an active media environment, Qore is the most direct and efficient way to connect with them while they are on their console, their gamepads in hands, as they are fully captivated by what they see and hear. Qore is already generating huge interest from advertisers. The launch episode will feature support from BURGER KING®, Universal Pictures (“The Incredible Hulk”), Activision (“Guitar Hero: Aerosmith”), Codemasters (“Grid” and “Overlord”) and others.
Users may either pay an introductory price of $2.99 (MSRP) for the first episode or sign up for an annual 13-episode subscription for $24.99 (MSRP). Subscribers will have special access to game demos, betas, add-ons and other downloadable and game-related content.
Veronica Belmont, the host of numerous online video programs and podcasts, will be the host of Qore™. Veronica is the co-host of Revision3’s tech-centric show Tekzilla and is a frequent guest on G4’s “Attack of the Show” as a gaming and technology expert. Formerly, she hosted the popular web show “Mahalo Daily” and was co-host of CNET’s programs “Buzz Out Loud,” “MP3 Insider” and “Crave.” Ms. Belmont is represented by International Creative Management.
“We couldn’t be more excited to extend our partnership with SCEA to the PlayStation® Network,” commented Future’s President Jonathan Simpson-Bint. “This is an opportunity to create a branded media environment unlike anything else in the world and an example of how Future is uniquely positioned to create powerful integrated media solutions for readers and advertisers.”
“Qore is a uniquely targeted product, reaching gamers in the interactive, high-definition environment of the console itself,” said Future Publishing Director Simon Whitcombe. “For consumers it is a relevant and compelling new format for media, and for advertisers it’s a pipeline straight to the game-playing audience.”
New York, USA (June 3, 2008) So you think you have the makings of a geo-political mastermind? Can you prove it? – Yes! –Well, in that case Paradox Interactive proposes a challenge. Can you correctly answer all of the questions in a game related quiz for – Supreme Ruler 2020?
Each question is taken from past or current global events and situations. Focus now, as there is no fifty-fifty, no ask-the-audience and no phone-a-friend! If you have five minutes to spare, then take the test and prove you have the makings of a Supreme Ruler. For as the countdown to release ticks down to zero, time is running out! Pit your wits against the quiz and prove your worth.
To access the questions, click here: http://www.paradoxplaza.com/SupremeRuler2020/?p=quiz
they’re finally going to see what those of us here in the U.S. have loved about this game
Sins of a Solar Empire sold approx 100,000 copies over two months following its US release earlier this year and hit number one in the USA charts. Sins of a Solar Empire will be released in the UK on the 13th June for £29.99. The European retail box will contain an additional bonus of six exclusive maps, a techtree poster and a comprehensive manual:
Face Off: In this small map there’s no room to manoeuvre, no way to escape.
Rush to take what few planets there are and crush your enemy quickly!
Agamemnon’s Bounty: Your forces must descent upon the Agamemnon star system to compete for its rumoured riches. Only the most cunning will grasp the system’s greatest rewards.
Backstab: Abnormal distortions in phase space have created strange wormholes with only one entrance in this star system. Players must expand their empires while watching their backs!
Double Cross: The fledgling empires of the Rhaego system are preparing to expand, but space is at a premium. It won’t be long before battle is joined…
Triumvirate: Will your neighbour aid or hinder your conquest of the Liladi system? Choose your diplomatic posture wisely - other factions may be enlisting allies of their own.
Implosion: With few alternate paths from each empire’s homeworld, the resource rich core of this large star system will become a fiercely contested battleground.
Hyperion’s Gates: Resources are scarce and the races of the Hyperion Cluster struggle to be the first to reach the riches of the Atropos system. But can they overcome the guardians at the gates?
The survival of humanity stands on the edge of utter ruin as three powerful factions vie for control of the galaxy. Take command of one of three space-faring races as you work to establish your domination of the galaxy in Sins of a Solar Empire. Fighting for the survival of your entire race against relentless foes, your success will depend entirely on your ability to manage your empire and command your vast fleets of starships to victory. Through a combination of diplomacy, economic skill, cultural influence, and sheer military might you will establish order over your corner of the galaxy!
MOVE OVER RUBE GOLDBERG, CRAZY MACHINES 2 PLAYERS WILL SOON BE BUILDING THE WACKIEST CONTRAPTIONS!
Crazy Machines 2 takes you on an incredible world tour and put your skills to the test with challenging puzzles from around the globe. But that’s not all: Crazy Machines II is exploding with new elements to play with, allowing you to create even more complex and astounding gadgets and machines. “This is the kind of gameplay you want to happen on screen, “commented Viva Media CEO, Carlo Voelker. He continues, “Most will agree, it is better build contraptions, experiment, make a mess and to blow it to smithereens in a virtual world!” And, what a world it is! A reworked physics engine allows for seriously realistic effects and in-depth game play. Players are able to experiment with physics while building functional, fun, or just plain silly contraptions and machines, for hours of enjoyment and creativity.
Crazy Machines 2 also offers connection to an extensive online community of Crazy Machines 2 gamers. Players can post the machines they’ve created and download puzzles created by others. Trophies and high ratings will keep players coming back for more, as special achievements and clever solutions are rewarded.
Crazy Machines II features:
• Over 200 elements to create and destroy
• All new parts and effects - astonishing lightning machines and laser beams!
• World Tour, Online, and Free-Style modes
• Hundreds of brand new challenges
• Trophy Hall for winning solutions!
• AGEIA PhysX Hardware support
• Family-style – challenges for kids and adults!
• Easy-to-use online system - download, upload, and rate machines
Quick Facts:
Published by Viva Media, LLC
Developed by FAKT
Release Date: June 16, 2008
Recommended Retail Price: $19.99
Minimum System Requirements:
Win Vista/98/ME/2000 XP, 800 MHz CPU, 128 MB RAM, DirectX 9 compatible graphics card with 32 MB RAM*, DirectX 9 compatible sound card, DirectX 9.0c, 100 MB available fixed disk storage, 2X CD ROM, *Phys X Aegia Card Recommended
Santa Monica, CA – June 3, 2008 – Activision, Inc. (Nasdaq: ATVI) is bringing a unique blend of humor and action to gamers with the release of Kung Fu Panda™, the video game based on DreamWorks Animation’s highly anticipated feature film. In order to become the Dragon Warrior and defeat the ultimate enemy, Tai Lung, players engage in kung fu moves and master the unique fighting style of unlikely hero Po the Panda and experience the legendary moves of Shifu, Po’s Teacher, and the Furious Five – Monkey, Tigress, Viper, Mantis and Crane.
“Kung Fu Panda gives kids the chance to experience first hand their favorite movie moments, as well as new levels and hilarious situations created specifically for the game,” said Kim Salzer, vice president of Global Brand Management, Activision Publishing. “The humor, lovable characters and non-stop action will deliver hours of fun that they can enjoy on their own or with parents and friends.”
Kung Fu Panda offers a distinct and exciting gameplay experience as players develop acrobatic kung fu combo attacks to defeat a number of villainous enemies, including the Great Gorilla, the Wu Sisters and the dark-hearted Tai Lung. Gamers will work to overcome dangerous obstacles and solve challenging puzzles as they navigate through diverse environments spanning air, water and land. By mastering the art of kung fu, players will utilize and upgrade the unique fighting skills of their favorite movie characters, unlocking new moves as well as a host of multiplayer characters and games. Additionally, players can team up or battle head-to-head in arena, puzzle or casual games, making the Kung Fu Panda video game an epic experience gamers of all ages will enjoy.
The console and Games for Windows versions are rated “PG” by the BBFC and the DS version is rated “7+” by PEGI .
For more information on Kung Fu Panda and to download the demo, please visit www.KungFuPandaGame.com.
SAN MATEO, Calif. — June 3, 2008 — Capcom® Entertainment, a leading worldwide developer and publisher of video games, today announced Spyborgs™, a new action game coming exclusively to the Wii™ home video game system from Nintendo. In Spyborgs, players take on the role of a diverse team of five bionic superspies in a fight to save the world from a group of dastardly villains. Wii gamers will be set to save the world when the game launches in 2009.
The first title developed by Bionic Games™, a newly-formed development team comprised of former Insomniac Games and High Impact developers known for their work on hugely popular franchises Ratchet and Clank™ and Resistance: Fall of Man™, Spyborgs is a unique action-adventure game set in a stylish world that resembles a Saturday morning cartoon. Engaging players in team-based challenges designed to utilize 2-player co-op play, Spyborgs takes the theme of “team” to a whole new level of fun. In Single-player mode the “team” theme continues as players jump from one member of the superspies’ team to the next, rapidly tackling different challenges designed around each character’s unique abilities. Fast, addictive gameplay, unique controls offered by the Wii Remote™, and a storyline that refuses to take itself too seriously, Spyborgs will provide players with a dynamic and fresh gaming experience like no other.
“Our goal is to maximize the potential of the innovative Wii Remote while delivering a new paradigm in cooperative game play,” said Michael Haller, president, Bionic Games, “We also wanted to bring a lot of humor to the game which we feel we have accomplished. This game will make you laugh — for all the right reasons.”
Players jump between the identities of a team of five bionic superspies to combat a rogue squad of wacky, dysfunctional super villains. Each character has unique powers to match their super-spy skills, such as heavy firepower, martial arts, bladed weaponry, acrobatic skateboarding skills or pure robotic destruction. This cast of characters may make a misfit group individually, but by utilizing them as a team, the Spyborgs will have the power to save the world – if they don’t blow themselves up first! Spyborgs’ tongue-in-cheek action and compelling interactive cartoon theme keeps players engaged from the first episode to the last with one of the most fun and entertaining games to be developed for the Wii system.
