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Natsume Inc. announced today that it will be publishing Harvest Moon: Frantic Farming for the Nintendo DS this spring. The company also released the first screenshots and gameplay details. The game is scheduled to hit retail this May.

Something strange is happening on Sunny Island! Crops are popping up everywhere and growing out of control! If something isn’t done soon, the once-tranquil island will be buried in an avalanche of vegetables! It’s up to the players to solve the mystery of this produce predicament as they try to tame the crops and gather as many vegetables as they can!

“Harvest Moon: Frantic Farming is an all-new action-puzzle game set in the world of Harvest Moon,” said Hiro Maekawa, President and CEO at Natsume. “With exciting gameplay modes, unlockable music and art, and a deep story mode with multiple selectable characters, it’s no puzzle why we think it will be a big hit with Harvest Moon and puzzle game fans alike!”

Set in the world of the recent DS hit Harvest Moon: Island of Happiness, Harvest Moon: Frantic Farming continues the tale of the island and its residents. Players can choose from 12 playable characters, each with their own unique story! See how the mystery unfolds from each character’s perspective, and who they meet along the way!

The game features a variety of modes including Story Mode, the brain-teasing Mission Mode, and the action-puzzle excitement of Score Attack and Free Play Modes. Players can test their farming skills against their friends and family in multiplayer. Players can also unlock character art, music, and some special surprises in their Collection Room.

Harvest Moon: Frantic Farming will ship to retail this May.

For more information, please visit www.natsume.com.

Big Bang Mini

Developer: Arkedo Studio
Publisher: SouthPeak Interactive
Format Reviewed: DS
Other Released Formats: None
Number of Players:1 – 4 (Single and Multi-cart support)
Online Features: Online Rankings
ESRB Rating: E for Everyone
Genre: Puzzle, Action Puzzle
Release Date: 2009-01-21

Big Bang Mini is a puzzle/shooter game that looks like a fireworks display. Your goal is to use the stylus to fire off fireworks at the various targets on the top screen. It’s a simple concept that is made fun and increasingly difficult over the course of the game’s 90 stages. It’s amazing what these guys have come up with for variety and the graphics they squeeze out of the DS come out with dazzling effect.

The concept is simple, shoot at the targets. The not so simple part of the game, and what keeps you on your toes is that you have a little “vessel” at the bottom which you must move around to collect the stars you get from shooting down each target. Oh, and if you miss? Debris falls, and you must avoid that too. It keeps you on your toes, and definitely makes you think before letting loose a barrage of blind fires from the stylus.

You do get power-ups in the form of shields and vortexes (and possibly others), which have a literal battery life, so you must use them wisely. To activate them, you must first earn them, and then make the appropriate gesture with the stylus. It’s harder than it seems, and definitely hard when things get dicey coming from above. If that’s not enough to worry about with guarding your vessel and destroying things above, some things sneak in from below, and on some levels, if you don’t destroy anything, you might get some walls that will close in on you. The game keeps things varied, and even the different worlds change drastically from one to another. My favorite world is the 8-bit inspired 3rd one. As a reward for completing each level (there’s 9 levels and 1 boss level per world), you get to complete a “connect the dots” style bonus, which gives you a neat little break before the next frenzied stage. These also get harder as things go along, but are never too difficult or frustrating.

Once you finish Arcade mode (which is definitely no easy task!), you can unlock the Mission mode, which gives you challenges such as time limits or only hitting the target and not wasting a single shot.

There’s also a Challenge mode, which is really more of a shooter mode, having you rack up scores, which can be posted online.

If you’re looking for multiplayer, this one has it as well, where you turn the DS sideways to destroy your unwitting opponent! You only need the one cart, so it’s a piece of cake to challenge people.

There are two more modes: Alarm (makes an alarm clock) and Relax, which is really just an excuse to show off those gorgeous fireworks.

The graphics are top-notch. There’s no slowdown, even when things get frantic, and the neon colors and explosive showers from the fireworks are just amazing to look at. This game couldn’t have been more amazing to watch, and even just spitting as the kids blew past my levels on the game was fun.

The music in the game is also something that stands out on its own. A couple of the songs I found myself humming along to, even though I don’t know if I’ve actually heard them before elsewhere. They’re catchy, and even when repeated for that 30th time, are never boring. The sound FX are also great, and not over-done.

This game is absolutely a great, fun time. I couldn’t recommend it more. It’s MSRP is 19.99. I would have said this even at a higher price: You should buy this game. For the MSRP, you can buy it and a copy for your neighbor!

Notes from Gamers News Kids: They both love this game. They are 7 and 5 (the 3 year old doesnt have a DS yet), and of all the carts, they play this one at least once a day. They are on world 5, and still trying to finish the game. They will sit and play against each other, and the sense of accomplishment for finishing each level gets them excited. This game is one of the best of the 20 DS games they own so far.

Yes, the kids are probably better at this game than I am, and honestly, I played it a lot more that I needed to for the review, which caused me to be a bit late. It’s addicting.

 
Rating 5 of 5
Pros: Addicting. Beautiful. Challenging. Great graphics. Great sound. Multiplayer is fun. Rewarding.

Cons: Addicting.

Triple Digit Revenue for Emerging Peripherals Developer

At a time when many companies are struggling to survive Penguin United, a designer and manufacturer of video game accessories, enjoyed 300% growth for the Fiscal year ending in 2008. Fueled by a series of five new product launches, Penguin has emerged as a strong contender in the highly competitive field of peripheral brands.

Following the launch of 5 new products in 2008, all of which received strong critical praise from the media, retailers and consumers, Penguin has quickly established itself as a viable presence in the game industry.

Notable products launched in 2008 include:
· 4X Quad Charge Station for Nintendo Wii
· Lion-Ion Dual charger for Nintendo Wii
· Soft Sports Kit for Nintendo Wii
· 24X DS Game Pouch in Multiple Colors
· Bright Saber for Nintendo Wii

“To experience growth in the current economy is a blessing,” states Richard Huang, Penguin’s President. “We feel incredibly fortunate to be able to participate in an industry that continues to thrive and we look forward to announcing the new line of products we have coming out this year.”

Congrats guys. Keep coming up with those great accessories!

Twentieth Century Fox Licensing & Merchandising Takes Halo Franchise To Next Level With New Toy Deals Unveiled at Toy Fair

The highly anticipated release of “Halo Wars”, the newest video game in one of the most successful entertainment franchises, is just a few weeks away. In preparation of its release, Twentieth Century Fox Licensing & Merchandising (Fox L&M), licensing agent for Microsoft Corp., will unveil an all-new toy line-up from partners USAopoly, MEGA Brands and McFarlane Toys at Toy Fair.

USAopoly and MEGA Brands join the “Halo” franchise for the first time as Fox L&M continues its expansion for one of the most popular video game properties in the world. Speaking to the brand’s global appeal, Michael Peikoff, Senior Vice President, U.S. Licensing for Fox L&M, commented, “‘Halo’ has become much more than a video game franchise, it’s a true entertainment franchise. Our goal is to add value to this intellectual property by extending it with blue chip partners whose interpretation of the brand is seamless and will be embraced by the legion of fans worldwide”

Making its debut at Toy Fair for the “Halo” franchise, USAopoly will introduce the old world to the new world as it melds the “Halo Wars” storyline with the classic and best selling Hasbro branded Risk board game. Available at retail in Spring/Summer 2009, this groundbreaking execution will combine elements of two strategy games – “Halo Wars” adversaries will engage in strategic battle for domination of Arcadia.

MEGA Brands will develop the first-ever construction toy sets based on “Halo Wars”, available in Fall 2009. The line is comprised of buildable playsets ranging from 65 to over 350 pieces, and features the most recognizable and iconic elements from the video game, with highly detailed vehicles, weapons and articulated micro-scale action figures for a true “build and play” experience. Each set also includes UNSC Spartans or Flame Marines, and Covenant Elites or Grunts. The Halo Wars Collection of licensed product offerings will be marketed under the Mega Bloks umbrella.

Following the success of the 2008 “Halo 3″ figures, McFarlane Toys extends its partnership with “Halo” with the release of new “Halo Wars” specific action figures and vehicle collections. Available in March 2009, this set of exquisitely crafted figurines, promises to raise the bar for detail and realism in the collectible toy genre. Friends can collect and/or trade the figures and build up an army from the battlefield. The heroic-sized figures are 2.5-inches tall and have mobility at the waist. Each 3-pack includes “Halo Wars” characters in different colors and poses, with weapons.

“Halo Wars” is an action strategy game based on the legendary Halo universe and created exclusively for Xbox 360. It is slated for release in the US on March 3, 2009. Players will be immersed in an early period of “Halo”, allowing them to experience events leading up to the story told in “Halo: Combat Evolved” for Xbox. They will take command of UNSC armies during mankind’s first encounters with the Covenant, an alien coalition threatening to obliterate the universe. “Halo Wars” is developed by Ensemble Studios, the team responsible for the best-selling and critically-acclaimed “Age of Empires” franchise on PC. The “Halo” series as a whole has sold more than 25 million copies worldwide.

Pre-orders for “Halo Wars” are taking place at participating retailers nationwide now. Fans who pre-order will receive an exclusive in-game Warthog with flame decals. The Limited Collector’s Edition is also available and includes a special in-game “Honor Guard” Wraith, a graphic novel, six Leader cards and a “Spirit of Fire” patch. As an additional exclusive, LCE owners will get early access to the in-game “Halo 3″ Mythic Map Pack for exciting new multiplayer action.

Create Powerful Armies and Direct them to Victory as Acclaimed Strategy Series Debuts on Nintendo DS

Nintendo DS system owners take note – the next game to engage your brain has arrived: Fire Emblem: Shadow Dragon. A unique strategy adventure, the game grants players full control over a powerful fighting force in a captivating fantasy setting, putting virtual tacticians to the test as they implement creative battle strategies, improve the skills of their warriors and outthink their opponents on the way to glory and victory.

The Fire Emblem: Shadow Dragon video game lets players alternate turns with opponents, moving their units to attack enemies on the battlefield and advance to more advantageous locations. There are dozens of units with different weapons and magic spells to wield, each with their own strategic benefits: high-flying Pegasus Knights move effortlessly over varied terrain, Archers can attack from a distance with their bows and arrows, and unarmed Curates use healing staves to help the wounded. Using Nintendo Wi-Fi® Connection and local wireless play modes, players can now test their skills against opponents, borrow units from others to use in their armies, talk with friends using the built-in Nintendo DS microphone and even use in-game currency to buy rare and powerful items from the Online Shop.

Building upon the series’ storied history, Fire Emblem: Shadow Dragon tells the tale of Marth, a young prince with wisdom and valor beyond his age. Marth has appeared in the Super Smash Bros. series and has earned a loyal fan following, but Fire Emblem: Shadow Dragon marks his first appearance in a Fire Emblem game in the United States.

“Fire Emblem: Shadow Dragon gives Nintendo DS owners the kind of thought-provoking experience that they crave, letting them guide a team of warriors to victory through cunning battle tactics and shrewd strategy,” said Cammie Dunaway, Nintendo of America’s executive vice president of Sales & Marketing. “Giving players the option to do battle alone at their own pace or compete with others online in head-to-head skirmishes, Fire Emblem: Shadow Dragon offers countless hours of game play in an engaging setting that everyone can enjoy.”

For more information about Fire Emblem: Shadow Dragon, visit www.Fire-Emblem.com.

Paradox Interactive today released new screenshots and videos forMajesty 2: The Fantasy Kingdom Sim, the long anticipated PC Fantasy Strategy game developed by 1C:Ino-Co.

The world of Majesty 2 is full of charm and a unique sense of humor, one where the player only has indirect control of the characters and units. Your independently thinking Heroes are just as likely to go shopping as they are to fight monsters and undertake heroic quests. Majesty 2 will make you game in a totally new way.

Watch the game clips here: 

Majesty2 - “Fighting is Good for You” 
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WesyRrtpedw 

Majesty2 - “Build the Fantasy City of Your Dreams” 
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0XL9y5T5fpk 

Majesty2 - “Buy the Stuff Heroes are Made of” 
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dr98xJrCl9Y 

Majesty2 - “Who Said You Can’t Buy Happiness?” 
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VOZG3rL_WT8 

Majesty2 - “Make Your Heroes Earn Their Living” 
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FnCLY9K9orc

Majesty 2 is scheduled for release during 2009 and will be published worldwide by Paradox Interactive. It will be available for digital download at GamersGate.

Now Available for Download Through the Wii Shop Channel

Akinai Games, the downloadable games division of leading videogame publisher YUKE’S Company of America, today announced the launch of Evasive Space for Nintendo’s WiiWare game service. The new top-down space adventure title features a unique control scheme utilizing the Wii Remote controller’s infrared capabilities to maneuver your ship in ways never before seen on a home console. Armed with only your deft piloting skills, fly Konki on a race to save the stars from the evil Dr. Dark Matter before the night sky is lost forever. Evasive maneuvering is the key to survival while you traverse through asteroid fields, space stations, and astral caves, all without firing a single shot.

Key features include: 
- Guide Konki through 20 hazardous space missions spanning four worlds 
- Deftly pilot your ship with innovative use of the Wii Remote’s infrared pointer capabilities 
- Pick up items and ship upgrades to enhance skills and increase your chances for survival 
- Four person multiplayer matches locally on your home console 
- Compete for the best times with Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection online leaderboards

Evasive Space is now available for download through the Wii Shop Channel for 1,000 Wii Points and has been rated “E” for “Everyone” with Mild Fantasy Violence by the ESRB.

To learn more about Evasive Space, visit the official website atwww.evasivespace.com.

IGG (http://www.igg.com) announced the Alpha Test of Galaxy Online(http://go.igg.com/) will start at 9:00pm EST (GMT-5) on February 23rd and last until 9:00pm EST (GMT-5) March 2nd, which is one week in total.

The server name is Aries.

There are two main goals for this test. One is to perfect the game and the other is to prepare for the upcoming Closed Beta Test.

During the test, many fun-filled events, such as “the King of the Newbie’s Contest” and the “Guilds are Wanted” events, will offer big rewards and lots of fun in the game and in the forum. Players are more than welcome to join these events.

Notes: All testers’ character data will be kept after the Alpha Beta Test

For more information, please visit the official Galaxy Online site: http://go.igg.com.

It has been a long and impatient journey for all Myth War fans that have been waiting for the latest news on the new version. The most highly anticipated aspect of the game is probably the new reborn 2 avatars. Not only do they have that to look forward to, but the new version1.0.4.30, will finally be available on February 19th.

As the new version gets up and running, players will be anxious to see the new avatar designs. All of them are displayed in brilliant color with dazzling effects, and smoother animation. Character’s who have reached reborn 2 status will have their names displayed in purple. Come join us for the next chapter in the ongoing story of Myth War!

To stay up to date, check out:
http://mw2.igg.com/news/news.php?aid=516

Client downloads:
http://mw2.igg.com/download/client.php