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First Wii Gun Designed with Built-in Remote and Repositioned A and B Buttons

Penguin United has announced that it will launch the CrossFire Remote Pistol for Nintendo Wii at this years E3 in Los Angeles.

The CrossFire is the first and only available gun for Wii that has the remote already integrated into the guns design. Additionally, the A and B buttons, and D-Pad have been repositioned for easy access and functionality.

Product Highlights:
* Self-contained remote gun – does not require inserting Wii remote into gun “shell”
* Designed to create a true gun experience
* A-Button repositioned for thumb access while holding pistol
* B-Button repositioned for trigger finger access
* D-Pad repositioned for immediate thumb access
* Works as regular remote for non-shooter games
* Enhanced Vibration function
* Built-in Speaker enhances audio experience

“The CrossFire pistol will change the way shooting games are enjoyed on the Wii platform,” emphasized Richard Huang, Penguin United’s President. “Previous gun designs are bulky and just don’t work very well. The CrossFire will offer gamers all the benefits of the normal Wii remote as well as providing a true “gun” experience.

Officially Licensed Rock Band Pedal Allows Players to Rock Two Pedals at the Same Time for Advanced Game Play

Harmonix and MTV Games, today announced that the officially licensed Rock Band Kick Pedalwith Double Bass Adaptor distributed by Performance Designed Products (PDP) is available now at retail stores. The Rock Band Kick Pedal with Double Bass Adaptor is available for the suggested retail price of $24.99.

The officially licensed kick pedal comes bundled with an adaptor that allows players to use two Rock Band kick pedals at the same time. The Rock Band Kick Pedal with Double Bass Adaptor works with all Rock Band and Rock Band 2 games and functions with all in-game tracks including freestyle and drum fill sections [1]. In addition, the Rock Band Kick Pedal with Double Bass Adaptor is also compatible with Guitar Hero World Tour and Guitar Hero: Metallica when used in conjunction with a Rock Band drum set.

The Rock Band Kick Pedal with Double Bass Adaptor is universally compatible with Rock Band drum kits for Xbox 360, PS3, PS2, and Wii.

Rock Band is rated “T” for Teen with descriptors of lyrics and mild suggestive themes by the ESRB. Rock Band 2 is rated “T” for Teen with descriptors of lyrics and suggestive themes by the ESRB.

For more information about Rock Band, please visit www.rockband.com

Nyko Technologies®, the premier video game accessories manufacturer, today announced that the highly anticipated Metal Pedal has shipped to stores. The heavy-duty drum pedal is compatible withRock Band® 1 and 2, Guitar Hero®: World Tour and Guitar Hero®: Metallica on all consoles and plugs directly into the drum set replacing the standard pedal.

Designed for rugged durability with a metal plated exterior, the Metal Pedal is a must have addition to rhythm game drum sets. The rubber feet will keep the pedal firmly in place while the pedal’s wide base provides stable footing and consistent response for a more reliable gaming experience. The Metal Pedal also features a unique splitter, allowing users to play with two pedals simultaneously, enabling them to master the most complex of songs for both games.

“We heard gamers’ plea for a sturdier, more durable foot pedal, presenting us with the opportunity to design a lasting alternative,” said Chris Arbogast, Director of Marketing at Nyko Technologies. “Our goal is always to provide value, quality and improve the overall experience and we have no doubt that the Metal Pedal will meet and exceed those goals.”

Nyko’s Metal Pedal™ is now available in stores at an MSRP of $19.99. For more information on these and other Nyko products, please visit:www.nyko.com.

Mad Catz Interactive, Inc., a leading third-party interactive entertainment accessory provider, today announced it has begun shipping of a range of Capcom – licensed Resident Evil 5 accessories, aimed at complementing the game’s release on the Xbox 360 and PS3 formats.

The licensed Resident Evil 5 accessories have been designed to appeal to the legions of Resident Evil fans and enhance the groundbreaking game play in this latest installment of survival horror.

Products shipping in the range are as follows:
• Official Resident Evil 5 Controller Faceplate – Xbox 360

Customize your controller in seconds with the official Resident Evil 5 Controller Faceplate. Snapping on to any official Xbox 360 Controller, the Faceplate depicts stunning Resident Evil 5-themed artwork. High quality and extremely durable, the Controller Faceplate maintains full comfort during sustained play.

MSRP: $14.99

• Official Resident Evil 5 Faceplate and Console Skinz - Xbox 360

Featuring custom Resident Evil 5 artwork, the highly collectible Faceplate and Console Skinz allow gamers to customize their Xbox 360 consoles. Easy to apply and remove, the Console Skinz wrap around the top and bottom of the console and when combined with the Faceplate, create a stunning themed backdrop. Available in a choice of striking designs, the Resident Evil 5 Faceplate and Console Skinz present an eye-catching addition to any gamer’s living room.

MSRP: $29.99

• Official Resident Evil 5 Controller Faceplate and Console Skinz -
PS 3

Featuring characters and scenarios from Resident Evil 5, the highly collectible Console Skinz and Controller Faceplate allow gamers to customize their PLAYSTATION 3 consoles and official controllers. Easy to apply and remove, the Console Skinz adhere to the top of the console and provide a stunning themed landscape. In addition, the Controller Faceplate attaches quickly and safely to the official PLAYSTATION 3 controller providing matching artwork to the console.

MSRP: $29.99

• Official Resident Evil 5 Bluetooth Headset – PLAYSTATION 3

Communicate in hi-tech style with the official Resident Evil 5 Headset with Bluetooth wireless technology. Compatible with the Bluetooth 2.0 standard and with a range of up to 30 feet, the Headset allows PLAYSTATION 3 gamers to communicate online during game play. Charging directly from the PLAYSTATION 3 USB port, the Headset requires no external battery and provides the ultimate communication solution for Resident Evil fans. The Headset is available exclusively at GameStop® stores across the United States.

MSRP: $49.99

• Official Resident Evil 5 Messenger Bag

Transport or store your console in comfort with the official Resident Evil 5 Messenger Bag. Sized for your console and accessories, the Messenger Bag is fashioned from high quality canvas and comes complete with a padded strap for comfort. Displaying full color game artwork, the Messenger Bag offers value and quality to any gamer.

MSRP: $49.99

• Official Resident Evil 5 Wall Scroll

An eye-catching addition to the Resident Evil 5 range, the Wall Scroll provides the perfect finishing touch to any gaming environment. Featuring a breathtaking intricate design utilizing official Resident Evil 5 artwork, the Wall Scroll has been designed to be a highly collectible and unique addition to any fan’s collection.

MSRP: $14.99
Darren Richardson, President and Chief Executive Officer of Mad Catz commented, “Mad Catz is excited to be part of such an enduring gaming franchise. To date, the Resident Evil series has sold over 34 million units worldwide and includes a trilogy of high-grossing box office movies. We’re confident that our line of accessories will appeal to seasoned Resident Evil veterans as well as gamers discovering the series for the very first time.”

“Following our successful launch of Street Fighter IV licensed products, Capcom is pleased to continue our work with Mad Catz by introducing gamers to a new range of quality Resident Evil 5 accessories”, said Germaine Gioia, Senior Vice President of Licensing at Capcom Entertainment, Inc. “Resident Evil is a franchise which appeals to a discerning, core gaming demographic with a very large fan base and we’re sure that our fans will be excited to personalize their gaming experience with Mad Catz gear.”

The Mad Catz range of licensed Resident Evil 5 accessories is shipping now and is available at:

GameStop: www.gamestop.com/re5headset

Amazon, and other fine retailers across North America and key European territories.

Designed for Wii Sports Fans Hoping to Improve Comfort and Scores for Only $29.99

Penguin United is doing its part to contribute to the world of video game sports by offering the ultra soft Safe Sports Pack for Nintendo Wii. Designed for comfort and versatility, the Safe Sports Pack provides consumers with a three-in-one kit for tennis, golf and baseball games for Nintendo Wii. The Safe Sports Pack is a must-have for any serious fan of Wii sports.

The Safe Sports Pack adds realism and improves game play to any tennis, golf or baseball video game for Nintendo Wii. The Safe Sports Pack’s ultra soft design is child-safe, extremely durable and has a suggested retail price of only $29.99.

“In terms of comfort and game play, the Soft Sports Pack is perfect for Wii sports fans,” stated Richard Huang, Penguin’s President. “Each attachment — for tennis, golf and baseball — is molded in ultra soft, durable material which makes the Soft Sports Pack exceptionally reliable and safe. ”

Product Highlights:
· Soft, Safe and Durable Spongy Material Design
· Includes Tennis, Golf and Baseball Attachments
· Easy Fit Design with Interlocking Handle
· Port Access for Nunchucks
· SRP: $29.99

New Wii Controller and Accessories to be Offered Together in Two Value Packs

Nyko Technologies®, the premier videogame accessories manufacturer, today announced two new accessories that will be available for its new Wand™ controller, expected to ship this April. Designed to work with the Wand’s patented Trans-Port™ technology, the new attachments include a Wired Kama with Rumble and the Pistol Grip gun that digitally replicates the A and B input commands. Both products are expected to be available in value packs following the Wand’s release in the second quarter of 2009.

Wand Action Pak 
The Wand Action Pak is perfect for shooting games, including one Wand controller and one Pistol Grip attachment. The Pistol Grip attachment is the first gun peripheral for the Wii with digital button relocation. Existing gun peripherals that attach to the Wii Remote™ use a mechanical activation system that is prone to breakdown from prolonged use, experiences a slight delay in response time and has software compatibility issues.

The Wand’s Trans-Port technology enables the Pistol Grip to activate the A and B commands digitally, as if depressing the buttons directly on the Wand itself. A small switch on the bottom of the Pistol Grip allows the A and B button functions to be easily flipped between the controller’s two buttons, the trigger and the hammer, depending on the game and convenience of button access. A port has also been included on the bottom of the Pistol Grip to allow for the connection of additional accessories, such as the Kama controller. The Wand Action Pak will be available in June for a MSRP of $49.99

Wand Core Pak 
The Wand Core Pak is the ideal starter set for any Wii gamer and includes one Wand controller and one Wired Kama with Rumble. The Wired Kama with Rumble is the latest version of Nyko’s Kama controller for Wii, the first and only model to incorporate full vibration feedback support for an immersive gameplay experience. The Wired Kama with Rumble connects to the Wand via a 4-foot cord and utilizes Nyko’s exclusive Trans-Port technology to enable vibration with all titles that utilize remote vibration. The new controller will feature the same design and form factor of the Wireless Kama for a comfortable fit and extra grip. The Wand Core Pak will be available in June for a MSRP of $49.99

The Wand is designed for maximum compatibility with Wii software and accessories and will be available individually in April for an MSRP of $34.99

”The Wand opens up a myriad of new features and accessories for us to improve how consumers experience games on Wii,” states Chris Arbogast, Director of Marketing, Nyko Technologies. “Recognized as Best of CES 2009 in the Gaming category, the Wand will ship as a stand alone unit and in both the Action Pak and Core Pak so users can customize their gaming experience. We’re pleased to announce these two new Wand-compatible accessories and look forward to introducing innovative new ways of utilizing Trans-Port technology in the future.”

For more information on these and other Nyko products, please visit:www.nyko.com.

Nyko Technologies today announced it won a “Best of CES” award for its Wand wireless controller for the Nintendo Wii in the Gaming category. This marks the second year in a row that a Nyko Technologies product has taken home the award. Produced and judged by editors from CNET (www.cnet.com), the winners of the “Best of CES” awards were announced Saturday, January 10, at the 2009 International CES in Las Vegas.

Selected by CNET’s unbiased expert editors, winners are recognized as having the hottest products in their respective technology categories for their unmatched innovation and creativity, and their ability to excite consumers and help them explore a world gone digital. CNET editors reviewed hundreds of entries, as well as scoured the 2009 International CES show floor for products to consider for the prestigious award.

The ten categories include car tech; cell phones and smart phones; computers and hardware; digital photo and video; gaming; GPS; home audio; home video; MP3 and portable video players; and televisions. A video of the winners and finalists showcasing their technologies can be found at http://www.cnet.com/ces .

The Wand is the world’s most advanced alternative to the Wii Remote, containing Nyko’s all-new Trans-Port technology which enables control and vibration feedback to be electrically replicated on a compatible attachment accessory, providing for a richer gaming experience and accurate digital input response. Current attachments made for the Wii Remote use a series of mechanical systems to access buttons on the controller and cannot provide vibration feedback. The Wand aims to change this with Trans-Port technology by enabling compatible accessories to digitally access key button commands. Nyko expects to ship the Wand to select retail stores nationwide in April 2009.

“We’re very proud of winning this year’s Best of CES in the Gaming category with the Wand and pleased with the warm welcome it has received with its debut,” said Chris Arbogast, director of marketing at Nyko Technologies. “Nyko constantly strives to provide new products of significant value to consumers that will enhance the video game playing experience and recognition of the Wand for Best in Gaming is a testament to these continued efforts.”

“Each year at the show, CNET editors scour the show floor to determine the top technologies that will set the trends for the coming year,” said Scott Ard, vice president of content at CNET. “Chosen from hundreds of products at the 2009 International CES, the Wand demonstrates the innovation and creativity to be awarded our “Best of CES” award within the video game industry.”

Nyko Technologies debuted its full lineup of new products at the Consumer Electronics Show 2009 in Las Vegas, Nevada. In addition to the previously announced Metal Pedal and Charge Station Quad, the following lineup of brand new videogame accessories for the Nintendo Wii will be on display for an exclusive hands-on demo:

The Wand
The Nyko Wand is the world’s most advanced alternative to the Wii Remote and has been designed from the ground up for superior functionality, comfort, and value. The new controller maintains all of the control functions Wii gamers expect with full motion-sensing capability, pointer functionality, vibration feedback, and a built-in speaker, while offering a variety of new features.

The Wand contains Nyko’s all-new Trans-Port technology, which enables control and vibration feedback to be electrically replicated on a compatible attachment accessory, providing for faster and more accurate inputresponse. Current attachments made for the Wii Remote can only access buttons through use of 

mechanical triggers and provide no vibration feedback. One of the many potential uses of Trans-Port technology is a pistol grip that connects to the Wand and electrically replicates key action buttons, providing controls not currently accessible with attachments for the Wii Remote. In addition, enlarged 1 and 2 buttons make the Wand an exceptional choice for classic gaming control when turned sideways, complete with Nyko’s signature rubberized battery cover to ensure maximum comfort and grip.

The Wand will be available at select retail stores nationwide in April, 2009.

Charge Station EX
The Charge Station EX is the latest iteration of North America’s best-selling third party videogame accessory, the Charge Station^TM for Wii. Also a 2-port Wii Remote charging and storage solution, the Charge Station EX adds LED battery level indicators to the front of the device and a new sleek look. Now users will be able to determine not only when a controller is charging but also the charge level of the battery based on the LED indicators.

The Charge Station EX will be available at stores nationwide in April, 2009 and will retail for an MSRP of $34.99.

Kama Charge Kit^TM
The Kama Charge Kit is an all-in-one charging solution for the Wii. The device simultaneously stores and charges both the Wii Remote^TM and the Kama controllers in one convenient unit. Included with the Kama Charge Kit is a Kama Wireless Controller, a rechargeable battery pack, and a rubberized battery cover for both the Wii Remote and Kama controllers to allow for seamless drop-in charging.

The Kama Charge Kit will be available at stores nationwide in April, 2009.

Mad Catz® Introduces New AirDrives^TM FIT Interactive Earphones for MP3 Players, iPods^TM and iPhones^TM

Mad Catz Interactive, Inc., the creators of AirDrives Interactive Earphones, announced the release of AirDrives FIT Interactive Earphones and AirDrives FIT Interactive Earphones for iPhone at CES 2009 on Monday. The latest models in the AirDrives range, which are ideally designed for those who enjoy listening to music while cycling, running or playing sports.

Like every product in the AirDrives range, both of the new models allow users to enjoy their music in rich, high quality stereo sound yet still be fully aware of their surroundings at all times. AirDrives FIT utilize patent pending InAir Technology. The new models have been designed to offer increased comfort and simplicity while reducing overall weight of the product by discarding the frame of the earphones and instead utilizing a wire loop which fits around the users ear and adjusts for optimal retention, proving more suitable for users wearing sunglasses or a helmet. In addition, the AirDrives FIT for iPhone model features an integrated in-line microphone, allowing users to pause their music and answer calls without the need to remove their earphones.

Darren Richardson, President and Chief Executive Officer of Mad Catz commented, “We created the original AirDrives to provide a safe listening option for those who lead an active lifestyle and enjoy listening to music on the move. Our research tells us that a large number of AirDrives users are runners and cyclists, thus the new FIT range has been specifically designed to integrate better with a helmet and sunglasses. We understand that the new FIT range needs to withstand the rigors of a sporting lifestyle and are confident that the new models will prove extremely durable yet offer exceptional value.”

Both AirDrives FIT models are compatible with all current iPod music players as well as other brands of MP3 players. The suggested retail price for AirDrives FIT is $39.99, available in black, silver or pink designs. AirDrives FIT for iPhone carries a suggested retail price of $59.99 available in black. AirDrives are available online at the GameShark Store, REI Stores, Apple Stores and Fry’s Electronics.

Mad Catz Interactive, Inc. announced, at CES 2009 Monday, the launch of the Cyborg X Flight Stick under the company’s Saitek brand on PC.

Marking the tenth anniversary of the Cyborg range of Flight Sticks, the new Cyborg X represents the flagship of the range, offering state-of-the-art design and a host of innovative new features providing PC gamers with groundbreaking levels of comfort and flexibility. The Cyborg X Flight Stick is compatible with most flight simulator and air combat games.

The Cyborg X delivers impressive levels of adjustability, allowing gamers to find their optimum positions for maximum comfort and control. Handle length can be increased or decreased to fit the gamer’s hand, the angle of the handle itself can be pivoted forwards or back, and the head can also be angled forwards or backwards to optimize button positions for extended game play. Another adjustment screw also allows the buttons on the stick head to be brought closer to or further from the fingers. For convenience, one of the Cyborg X’s feet features a compartment which houses the tool used to loosen or tighten the adjustment screws.

As well as multiple adjustment options, the Cyborg X features a heavy duty trigger and eleven programmable buttons with a shift function to double the number of programming options. Controls also include twin levers which can function as throttles for multiple engine aircraft or as a combination of throttle/flaps, as well as a scroll wheel for functions such as flaps or trim. For complete customization, the Cyborg X buttons can easily be remapped using Saitek’s SST (Saitek Smart Technology) software, included in the pack.

A first for the range, the Cyborg X utilizes components which detach or fold away, saving space and enhancing ergonomics when not in use. The Flight Stick handle attaches to the base with a secure screw collar and the left and right feet of the tripod base fold in and out of the body using an ingenious gear mechanism. When extended, the legs click into place to create a secure and stable platform for the stick.

Darren Richardson, President and Chief Executive Officer of Mad Catz commented “The Cyborg X is the culmination of ten years of Saitek innovation and engineering, and one of many new products planned for 2009. The Cyborg brand is reserved for those products designed for hardcore gamers that demand best-in-class features and durability. The Cyborg X Flight Stick will compliment our portfolio of console and PC compatible flight sticks and reinforces our market leading position.”

The new Cyborg X Flight Stick (model: PS38) is expected to begin shipping worldwide in Q1 of 2009 with a U.S. MSRP of $49.99.