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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.

PS3 version shown

Mad Catz Interactive, Inc. announced, at CES 2009 Monday, the expansion of the Aviator line of flight sticks to include two new models – the Saitek Aviator Flight Stick for Xbox 360 and the Saitek Aviator Flight Stick for PS3.

A highly advanced combat joystick designed to enhance any flight simulation experience, the Aviator Flight Stick has been designed with an oversized flat base for increased stability and features three dedicated Fire Buttons, heavy-duty Combat Trigger and POV (point-of-view) Analog Stick as well as an innovative Throttle Lever positioned to suit ambidextrous gamers. A two position Mode Switch allows for on the fly changes to button configuration providing ideal controls for selected software such as the Blazing Angels series. The Flight Sticks have been fully tested to work with the new Ubisoft combat flight simulator Tom Clancy’s: HAWX. Furthermore both Xbox 360 and PLAYSTATION 3 models are fully PC compatible.

The Aviator Flight Stick for Xbox 360 includes an integrated Xbox Live Headset Connector for real time communication with other players. In addition, the Aviator Flight Stick for Xbox 360 features an Xbox Guide Button, displaying player and Xbox Live notifications. The Flight Stick is manufactured under license by Microsoft and is fully compliant with Xbox 360 Flight Stick Sub-Type.

The Aviator Flight Stick for PLAYSTATION 3 shares identical specifications to the Xbox 360 model, differing only via the integrated Home Button which gives instant access to the PLAYSTATION 3 Cross Media Bar.

Darren Richardson, President and Chief Executive Officer of Mad Catz commented, “The new Aviator Flight Sticks for Xbox 360 and PLAYSTATION 3 manages to combine Saitek’s PC Flight Stick heritage with Mad Catz’ next generation console expertise. The Flight Sticks expand our portfolio of specialty controllers enabling us to reach new consumer demographics. We believe the Aviator will prove itself to be the ideal controller for gamers requiring an authentic and highly accurate experience when playing flight simulation titles.”

Tom Yu, Brand Manager for Tom Clancy’s: HAWX at Ubisoft added further insight, commenting “The Aviator Flight Sticks provide gamers with levels of accuracy and control that gamepad users can only dream of.”

The Saitek Aviator Flight Stick for Xbox 360 (model: PS41) is expected to ship across North America this month with an MSRP of $49.99.

The Saitek Aviator Flight Stick for PLAYSTATION 3 (model: PS40) is expected to ship across North America this month with an MSRP of $49.99.

Mad Catz Interactive, Inc. announced, on the first day of CES 2009, a full range of licensed Street FighterTM IV accessories which are expected to ship alongside the release of the franchise’s first dedicated next generation release in February 2009.

Produced in close collaboration with Capcom, the Mad Catz Street Fighter IV range of accessories has been created to support the game’s unique button mapping and enhance game play for casual and dedicated fans alike.

Products expected to ship in the range are as follows:

• Official Street Fighter IV Arcade FightStick (360, PS3)
Designed to offer authentic arcade style play, the Street Fighter IV Arcade FightStick offers gamers precision control and quality engineering complete with stunning official artwork. Dual-speed Turbo functionality for each button complete with LED Indicators allows gamers to execute moves with lightning speed while the eight-button Street Fighter IV arcade configuration means that those familiar with the arcade will feel instantly at home. An integrated D-Pad switch allows gamers to alternate between D-Pad and Analog Sticks for maximum control flexibility, while the ergonomic slanted top panel ensures maximum comfort during sustained play. Start and Select/Back Buttons have been moved to the rear of the FightStick thus minimizing the risk of accidental interruption during play and specially created ‘Character Cards’ ship with the Arcade FightStick which insert into the top panel and display a selection of special moves.

• Official Street Fighter IV FightPad (360, PS3)
Ideal for gamers favoring a traditional console controller without wishing to compromise on features, the Street Fighter IV FightPad features an enlarged circular eight-way floating D-Pad and arcade style six-button configuration. An integrated D-Pad switch allows gamers to alternate between D-Pad and Analog Sticks and combined with official artwork featuring an assortment of famous Street Fighter® characters, the Street Fighter IV FightPad is destined to be the controller of choice for discerning fans and those seeking a competitive advantage.

• Official Street Fighter IV Arcade FightStick: Tournament Edition (360, PS3)
Designed for the serious Street Fighter enthusiast, nothing brings the arcade experience closer to home than the Street Fighter IV Arcade FightStick: Tournament Edition. Overseen by Capcom and legendary producer Yoshinori Ono, the Tournament Edition features an unparalleled level of detail and uses arcade quality components. Sourced directly from arcade manufacturer Sanwa Denshi, the FightStick: Tournament Edition uses the same Japanese style ball-handled joystick and 30mm Action Buttons found in the official Street Fighter IV Vewlix arcade cabinet, marking the first time such components have been used for a commercial product outside of Japan. With the D-Pad control switch, dual Turbo functionality for each button, and exact button layout matching the Vewlix Street Fighter IV arcade panel, the FightStick: Tournament Edition delivers an experience unlike any other arcade styled controller. Complete with detailed touches such as screw on rubber feet for solid surface play, unobtrusive placement of the Start and Select/Back Buttons along with a locking mechanism preventing accidental activation of Turbo settings for tournament play, the FightStick: Tournament Edition represents the best possible choice for the hardcore and dedicated Street Fighter fan.

• Official Street Fighter IV Faceplate and Console Skinz (360)
Featuring custom Street Fighter IV artwork, the highly collectible Faceplate and Console Skinz allow gamers to customize their Xbox 360 consoles. Safe and totally removable, the Console Skinz wrap around the top and bottom of the console and when combined with the Faceplate, create a stunning Street Fighter IV backdrop. Available in a choice of two striking designs, the Street Fighter IV Faceplate and Console Skinz present an eye-catching addition to any gamer’s living room.

• Official Street Fighter IV Controller Faceplate and Console Skinz (PS3)
Featuring custom Street Fighter IV artwork, the highly collectible Controller Faceplate and Console Skinz allow gamers to customize their PLAYSTATION 3 consoles and official controllers. Safe and totally removable, the Console Skinz adhere to the top of the console and provide a stunning Street Fighter IV themed landscape. In addition, the Controller Faceplate attaches quickly and safely to the official PLAYSTATION 3 controller providing matching artwork to the console.

• Official Street Fighter IV Wall Scroll
A perfect finishing touch to any gaming environment, the Street Fighter IV Wall Scroll features a breathtaking intricate design utilizing official Street Fighter IV artwork. Highly collectible, the quality vinyl scroll provides a unique addition to any fan’s collection.

Darren Richardson, President and Chief Executive Officer of Mad Catz commented, “Street Fighter is the fighting franchise by which all others are judged. Mad Catz is excited about the opportunity to leverage our years of experience in designing and manufacturing controllers and extend our portfolio to include what we believe will be seen as market leading FightSticks and FightPads which include designs and unique feature sets, never before seen within a commercial product in the USA”

“Capcom is pleased to work with Mad Catz to provide the highest quality controllers possible to the Street Fighter community,” said Christian Svensson, vice president business development & strategic planning at Capcom Entertainment, Inc. “Capcom has a long history of supporting its fan base with quality content and Mad Catz Street Fighter IV peripheral controllers will astound the Street Fighter community.”

The Mad Catz range of licensed Street Fighter IV accessories is expected to be available in February 2009.

ALL ACCESSORIES SHOWN ARE PS3 VERSIONS

Penguin 24X DS Gaming Pouch

• Fits up to 24 games. The only game card holder for the serious DS gamer.
• Transparent Inner Pages for full view of your games collection. 
• Fit 6 Nintendo DS game cards per page, with 4 inner pages to fit up to 24 games.
• Made of Premium Material – Not from real leather so no animal was harmed.

The Gaming Pouch is a pretty handy unit. It’s 4 pages of pockets gives you plenty of room for those pesky little DS cartridges. If you have amassed a large collection, the 24X DS Gaming Pouch is a very handy item to have. I tested one of these little units for the past 2 weeks. They do indeed hold a lot of cartridges, which is great if you don’t want to keep having to open those little boxes.

The boys have a hard time with the Nintendo DS cases as it is. The usually smash fingers, or have a hard time prying the cartridges out of them, so they have wind up cluttering the floor of their room. The pouch makes it easy for them to keep the cartridges in place and the actual DS cases on the bookself. There is a nice touch with this unit as well: there is a loop for holding the extra stylus, which keeps it handy if one gets lost.

The 24X DS Gaming Pouch itself is made of a sturdy material, with nice poly pages inside that have taken abuse from the cartridges without stretching out. The outsides come in: White with Light Blue, White with Pink, White with Navy, and Black with Red. All have a little penguin logo on the front.

One issue we had with the DS Gaming Pouch is that the zipper can be a little tough if there aren’t many cartridges in it. This is mainly when zipping around the corners. If you or your kids are impatient, it’s easy to make the zipper skip some teeth. It’s easily fixable, and can be avoided by putting the cartridges in the corner slots first. 

Pros:
Holds a massive 24 cartridges.
4 different color schemes.

Cons:
Zipper can come off the track if you are in a hurry.
This unit holds a lot of cartridges and is a great bang for the buck. It can help keep those little carts secure, organized and handy for trips or just storage.

Rating: 4 of 5 Stars

Innovative Headset System Brings High-Definition, 5.1 Channel Surround Sound Experience

VIBRAS Five.One from Track Scan(TM) Is Named an Official Xbox 360(R) Accessory by Microsoft

MOORESVILLE, N.C., Dec. 16 /PRNewswire/ — Delivering sound so detailed and powerful that it puts users inside the game, the new VIBRAS Five.One Surround Sound Headset System has received Microsoft’s approval as an official Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system accessory.

The VIBRAS Five.One, designed specifically for Xbox 360 and Xbox Live(R), uses Dolby(R) Digital AC3 and special “sound-canal” technology to create a true 5.1 channel surround sound experience. With five individually encoded discrete audio channels pulsating through 10 speakers (five in each ear cup), gamers who use the VIBRAS Five.One enjoy unprecedented sound quality.

“It’s awesome!” said Rich Heinz, a professional gamer from Port Jefferson, N.Y. “I can literally hear everything and know exactly where each sound is coming from. The overall sound quality is excellent.”

VIBRAS Five.One was developed and manufactured by Track Scan, based in Mooresville, N.C., a leading provider of headsets and audio scanners for motorsports.

The company’s scanners that allow racing fans to listen to drivers, crews, officials, and radio and TV broadcasts are available for rent or purchase at every NASCAR Sprint Cup race and U.S. IndyCar Series events.

“Whether you’re playing games, watching movies, listening to music on Xbox Live or through the console with your Zune, you will find VIBRAS Five.One to be the best performing 5.1 surround sound headset system on the market,” said Glen Aikenhead, founder of Track Scan.

The $199 VIBRAS Five.One Xbox System includes the lightweight, comfortable headset, Dolby Digital AC3 Technology decoder box, detachable microphone with an in-line voice amplifier box, optical fiber cable, AC power supply and replacement ear pad covers. A USB surround sound system for personal computers is also available at $159.

Track Scan’s full line of products, including VIBRAS Five.One, can be purchased through the company’s online catalog (http://www.track-scan.com/catalog/).

The VIBRAS Five.One also will be displayed at the 2009 International CES, the world’s largest consumer technology tradeshow, in Las VegasJan. 8-11 at booth number 30927 in the South Hall.

Track Scan, Inc. is the premier supplier of scanners and headsets at all NASCAR Sprint Cup Series events, as well as U.S. IndyCar Series races. Founded in 1993, the Mooresville, N.C. based company serves thousands of race fans and corporate hospitality guests each weekend from trackside merchandise areas. In 2008, Track Scan launched VIBRAS, a high performance line of gaming and personal audio products.