Posts Tagged ‘Sports’

NBA announces Square Enix’s Final Fantasy XIII as presenting partner of 2010 NBA All-Star Celebrity Game

Friday, February 12th, 2010

Partnership with World-Renowned Fantasy Videogame Includes Visibility Throughout the Game and at NBA All-Star Jam Session presented by adidas

NEW YORK, Feb. 8, 2010 – The National Basketball Association (NBA) and Square Enix Inc. (Square Enix) today announced a promotional partnership that will make FINAL FANTASY® XIII – the latest in the world-renowned action-packed role-playing videogame series that has shipped more than 92 million units – the presenting partner of the 2010 NBA All-Star Celebrity Game.

As the presenting partner of the NBA All-Star Celebrity Game, FINAL FANTASY XIII will have prominent exposure throughout Center Court at NBA All-Star Jam Session presented by adidas, where the game will be played. The role-playing videogame, which features futuristic characters and gameplay, will receive significant presence during the broadcast on ESPN, which will televise the NBA All-Star event for the sixth consecutive year. There will also be a dedicated FINAL FANTASY XIII area at NBA All-Star Jam Session where fans will be able to preview the videogame, which will be available for both PlayStation®3 and the Xbox 360® on March 9, 2010.

“FINAL FANTASY XIII ,the next evolution in videogame entertainment, will appeal to first time players and series fans alike,” said John Yamamoto, President and CEO of Square Enix, Inc., “We are delighted to be the presenting partner at the NBA All-Star Celebrity Game and give fans a chance to experience the most highly anticipated game of the year before it launches on March 9.”

“FINAL FANTASY is a storied brand in the videogame category and this partnership will bring an exciting new element to this year’s NBA All-Star Celebrity Game,” said Mark Tatum, NBA Executive Vice President of Marketing Partnerships. “A good portion of our fanbase overlaps with the young, videogame-playing audience, so it is a natural fit for us to partner with a leading franchise like FINAL FANTASY around one of our marquee All-Star events.”

The 2010 NBA All-Star Celebrity Game presented by FINAL FANTASY XIII will tip off on Friday, Feb. 12 at 7:00 p.m. EST/ 6:00 p.m. CST from NBA All-Star Jam Session presented by adidas inside the Dallas Convention Center. This year’s celebrity participants will include a cast of players from film, TV, and music who will be outfitted in retro 1986 NBA All-Star uniforms paying tribute to NBA All-Star 1986 in Dallas. The game will also feature former NBA players and current WNBA players.

FINAL FANTASY XIII marks the dawning of a new era for the celebrated franchise, bringing the series to multiple high-definition consoles simultaneously for the first time in its history. The series is defined by a constant evolution, offering nothing less than the finest creative vision, graphical quality and gameplay system of its generation with every installment, and FINAL FANTASY XIII will be no exception to its legacy.

BOOOOOOM-SHAKA-LAKA! EA ANNOUNCES NBA JAM

Tuesday, January 12th, 2010

New Take on Classic Game to Appear on the Wii in 2010

Electronic Arts Inc. announced today that EA SPORTS is developing one of the most popular and culturally influential arcade basketball games ever made — NBA JAM — for the Nintendo Wii. EA SPORTS NBA JAM revives the classic franchise with vintage NBA JAM gameplay, and all-new features that deliver a fresh new take on the game. Featuring the sights and sounds that fans of the franchise will instantly recognize, EA SPORTS NBA JAM mixes the old school with the new, to deliver a one-of-a-kind sports presentation on the Wii.

“NBA JAM is one of the most recognizable franchises in videogame history,” said Peter Moore, President, EA SPORTS. “Diehard fans of the original game have been asking for a remake for more than a decade. We’re very excited to give them their wish this year with the return of this iconic franchise.”

Featuring gameplay that is true to the original, NBA JAM will have players spinning with ankle breaking moves to the basket and on the way to high-flying, backboard-smashing dunks. In addition to the classic experience, EA SPORTS NBA JAM will also introduce new game modes, characters and gameplay depth.

NBA JAM brought an all-new visual style to the sports videogame genre when it debuted in 1993. Now, the new EA SPORTS NBA JAM re-defines the visuals for a sports game yet again by bringing true-to-life body types, updated physics and visible player emotion to the over- the – top experience.

EA SPORTS NBA JAM is currently in development at EA Canada in Vancouver, BC and will be available for the Nintendo Wii videogame system in 2010. The game has not yet been rated by the ESRB or PEGI.

For more information, visit www.nba-jam.easports.com.

Backbreaker trailer released

Sunday, January 10th, 2010

505 Games today released new in-game footage for Backbreaker, the next generation football video game for a new generation of football fans. Boasting fierce, competitive action and an endless variety of unique football moments, Backbreaker is how football was meant to be played on next-gen consoles. Redefining the football video game genre with stunning on-field camera views, realistic animations and an unrelenting rush of explosive tackles, Backbreaker hits Xbox 360™ and PlayStation 3 in Spring 2010.

About Backbreaker

Backbreaker breaks the mold of traditional football video games with realistic, physics-based motion AI, crisp high-definition graphics and a camera angle that follows the perspective of the player. Backbreaker is the first sports video game to feature NaturalMotion’s acclaimed euphoria motion synthesis engine, offering intense gameplay, dazzling graphics and an endless variety of unique sacks and tackles.

Backbreaker includes online multiplayer and split-screen multiplayer modes. The game welcomes newcomers to the genre with its intuitive pick-up-and-play Arcade Mode control scheme, while seasoned players can go head-to-head in the game’s more challenging Pro Mode that turns off AI and visual assists. In addition, the game features total team customization including a fully featured logo editor.

Backbreaker will be available for Xbox 360™ and PlayStation®3 in Spring 2010. For more information, please visit the official Web site at: http://www.backbreakergame.com.

Deca Sports DS goes gold

Sunday, January 10th, 2010

Third Game in the Popular Sports Compilation Series Can Be Played On-The-Go

Zipping in hot on the heels of the best-selling DECA SPORTS and the sequel DECA SPORTS 2 for Wii, DECA SPORTS DS for Nintendo DS has just gone gold. Featuring 10 all-new, innovative sports for portable gaming, DECA SPORTS DS is set for release March 2, 2010 and will be published by Hudson Entertainment, the North and South American subsidiary of HUDSON SOFT.

“DECA SPORTS DS represents the latest iteration of the social, full-fledged compilation sports experience unique to the DECA SPORTS brand,” said Dai Kudo, Director of Consumer Products at Hudson Entertainment. “Both young gamers and gamers young at heart will have a fun time playing new sports such as cheerleading and rugby alongside classics such as golf and ping pong.”

DECA SPORTS DS will feature an all-new diverse selection of sports including golf, ping pong, wall climbing, bobsled, rugby, arm wrestling, clay shooting, cheerleading, sky diving and sepak takraw. The new game will continue the original game’s credo of “the Everybody Sports Game” and for added competitive fun, up to six players can join through DS Download Play. In addition to the new sports and multiplayer functionality, gamers will also be able to design their own teams by customizing uniforms, changing athlete abilities and even altering the physical characteristics of the athletes themselves.

For more information on DECA SPORTS DS please visit www.decasportsds.com

Concrete Software Announces the Release of PBA Bowling 2 for BlackBerry Storm 2

Tuesday, January 5th, 2010
 Concrete Software, Inc. announced today the release of PBA Bowling 2 for BlackBerry. Concrete Software and the Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) have partnered together once more to create a second version of the popular bowling game. PBA Bowling 2 is available on the BlackBerry Storm 2 and takes advantage of the new OpenGL ES graphics engine, one of the most versatile and advanced mobile 3D graphics engines available. This title will be available on more devices as OpenGL is included with new BlackBerry smartphones in the future.

PBA Bowling 2 is a 3D bowling game with enhanced display graphics, menus, and features. Many of the attractive features from the original PBA Bowling game have been carried over, including 3 different game types and the option to bowl at the official PBA Tour stops against top PBA bowlers such as Wes Malott, Chris Barnes, Jason Belmonte, Norm Duke and many more. The latest features, including customizable bowling balls with new special effects, realistic oil patterns, graphic textures and 3D bowling centers serve to make PBA Bowling 2 the most realistic gaming experience possible for BlackBerry.

Although bowling games are nothing new to mobile, PBA Bowling 2 offers many advanced features including improved graphics, customizable gameplay, an immersive 3D environment and the solidity of the PBA brand that are sure to set it apart in the ranks of the mobile bowling game market.

Majesco releases Jillian Michaels Fitness Ultimatum 2010 for DS

Monday, October 19th, 2009

New Fitness Game Designed by America’s Toughest Trainer Offers A High-Impact Workout For Those Who Are Constantly On-The-Go

America’s Toughest Trainer and Health and Wellness Expert has created a workout program that is designed specifically for on-the-go fitness! Majesco Entertainment Company, today announced that Jillian Michaels Fitness Ultimatum 2010 for Nintendo DS will be available at retailers nationwide tomorrow. A companion title to the recently released Jillian Michaels Fitness Ultimatum 2010 for Wii™, the Nintendo DS game features exercises and routines custom designed by Jillian that players can follow anywhere they go, from the office to the beach.

In Jillian Michaels Fitness Ultimatum 2010 for Nintendo DS, players follow a 3D avatar of Michaels as she leads them through rigorous exercises and routines, just like a real personal training session. With expert advice and motivational feedback from Jillian, users can maximize their work out to achieve the best results. In addition, players can choose their preferred fitness regimen through two different program-setting modes: “Jillian’s Training” and “My Training.” “Jillian’s Training” immerses “trainees” into a set workout schedule and plan designed by Jillian, whereas “My Training” allows them to create their own programs including workout days, times and activities. No matter what regimen they choose, players can track their progress with the “My Diary” feature and view diet and wellness tips from Jillian – all designed to help them to stay focused and inspired to attain their fitness goals.

Jillian Michaels Fitness Ultimatum 2010 for Nintendo DS™ is developed by Mistic Software along with Executive Producer Interactive Game Group. The game is rated E for Everyone and is available tomorrow at retailers nationwide for a Suggested Retail Price of $29.99. Jillian Michaels Fitness Ultimatum 2010 for Wii™ is currently available nationwide for a Suggested Retail Price of $39.99 and is also rated E for Everyone. For additional information about both games, please visit www.jillianmichaels.com.

Gamescampus.com appoints Terry Kim Vice President of Publishing

Tuesday, August 4th, 2009

Former Chief Publishing Officer Of Gala-Net Joins The Publisher of Popular MMORPG’s and Online Sports Games

San Jose-based online game publisher, GamesCampus (www.gamescampus.com, run by OnNet USA), announced today that it has appointed Terry Kim Vice President of Publishing. Kim will be responsible for managing all aspects of publishing for the company’s lineup of MMORPG titles including Asda Story, Xiah Rebirth and Manga Fighter.

“Terry brings a broad knowledge of online gaming production, operations and publishing to this position and we are looking forward to leveraging all of that experience.” said Kevin Kim, CEO of GamesCampus.

In his previous role as Chief Publishing Officer at Gala-Net Inc., Kim led the successful launches of Rappelz and Tales Runner and completely redesigned the gPotato portal structure. Prior to joining Gala-Net Inc., Kim held the position of Marketing and Planning director at GED Mobile Co. Ltd where he provided wireless internet content to all Korean Carriers and designed various successful wireless internet marketing methods. Kim holds a Bachelor’s degree of Civil Engineering from Yonsei University in Seoul, Korea.

“The ability to leverage my diverse experience with such a dynamic team at GamesCampus makes for an exciting opportunity,” said Terry Kim. “I look forward to participating in the growth and success of GamesCampus and its current and upcoming products.”

For more information about GamesCampus and its games, visit www.gamescampus.com.

Burda:ic Starts the Summer with a Worldwide Party in Fantasy Tennis Season 2

Thursday, June 18th, 2009

June Update Welcomes Summer to the Courts with New Outfits, Free Gifts, and Plenty of Prizes!

Burda:ic, a leading publisher of online games worldwide, today announced the start of the Summer Festival in colorful sports MMORPG, Fantasy Tennis Season 2. Kicking off the June update, the festival lets players experience summer on the courts with parasols, popsicles, and a variety of poolside attire. As a reward for braving the heat, Burda:ic will even be handing out free, limited edition t-shirts as gifts!

Of course, the June update adds more than just the festival proceedings. A few in-game tweaks have been made and three new Gacha sets have been added, including the truly fantastic Literature Set. Dress up as Robin Hood, Zorro, or the great Sherlock Holmes and take to the courts as your favorite fictional hero!

For more information about the June update and the Summer Festival, please visit http://ft.alaplaya.net.

Ubisoft announces Shaun White Snowboarding: World Stage

Thursday, May 28th, 2009

UBISOFT TOURS THE GLOBE WITH SHAUN WHITE SNOWBOARDING: WORLD STAGE

Ubisoft announced that it is collaborating again with Olympic Gold Medalist Shaun White in Shaun White Snowboarding: World Stage. Developed by Ubisoft Montréal, the game will be available exclusively for the Wii(TM) system from Nintendo and will be on store shelves holiday 2009.

“Working with Shaun on the first title was an excellent experience,” said Antoine Guignard, Ubisoft producer of Shaun White Snowboarding: World Stage. “The great public reception of Shaun White Snowboarding and the wonderful collaboration with Shaun made it a slam dunk for us to reunite to create a fun, new adventure for fans.”

Players will hit the slopes with Shaun White and his crew, but this time the stakes are higher as you pursue the world’s top competitions from a half-pipe in the middle of New York’s Time Square to the most prestigious competitions of France, Canada and Japan.

“Ubisoft has been a great partner, and I’m excited for World Stage,” said action sports phenom Shaun White. “It’s cool to give people insight on what my life is like on the competition circuit.”

Shaun White Snowboarding was a worldwide success for Ubisoft, selling over 3 million copies since its November 2008 launch and establishing a new sports brand for Ubisoft. The title was also one of the first and most popular video games compatible with the Wii Balance Board(TM) accessory. Players will be able to break out their Balance Boards once again for Shaun White Snowboarding: World Stage when they flex their board skills either alone or together with family and friends.

Shaun White Snowboarding: World Stage will be showcased at the Ubisoft press conference during E3 at the Los Angeles Theater on June 1st at 5 p.m. Visitors can hit the powder, as well, at the Ubisoft booth on the show floor (South Hall, Booth #1022).

For more information on Shaun White Snowboarding: World Stage, please visit: www.shaunwhitegame.com.

Punch-Out!! for Wii released

Tuesday, May 19th, 2009

Classic Franchise Returns to the Ring with Motion Controls, Multiplayer Action and New Surprises

Today the world of video game boxing returns to its roots with the launch of the new Punch-Out!! game for Nintendo’s Wii console. The game brings immersive motion controls to an iconic franchise that has been around since the days of the NES. Players are invited to step into the ring as underdog Little Mac as they go toe-to-toe with an array of memorable characters, including familiar faces like Glass Joe, King Hippo and Don Flamenco.

The motion-sensitive Wii Remote and Nunchuk controllers turn the swings players make in real life into on-screen punches. Both novice and veteran gamers can pick up Punch-Out!! and punch their way to the top. The optional Wii Balance Board accessory (sold separately with Wii Fit) can be added to provide an extra challenge for advanced players who want to literally bob and weave through their fights. For those who insist on old-school Punch-Out!! purity, the game also can be played with classic NES-style controls by turning the Wii Remote controller sideways.

Even players who have battled through the original games hundreds of times will find new challenges with Punch-Out!! for Wii. For instance, once Little Mac (with the help of trainer Doc Louis) has pummeled his way through all the contenders, they return to offer him new challenges in Title Defense Mode. Only this time, their traditional weaknesses have been eliminated and players must find new ways to achieve victory. In this mode, the once-harmless Glass Joe now wears headgear, and King Hippo’s vulnerable belly is protected behind a manhole cover. The new twists ensure fans enjoy a completely new play experience.

For the first time in the Punch-Out!! series, a head-to-head multiplayer mode lets players compete against one another. Both players take on the role of Little Mac and match wits as they trade uppercuts, jabs and body blows. With a series of well-placed punches, Little Mac transforms into the gargantuan Giga Mac, who can land more powerful blows and is more difficult to take down.

“Punch-Out!! is back, keeping all the charm of the original while delivering a knockout punch with new twists to experience and enjoy,” said Cammie Dunaway, Nintendo of America’s executive vice president of Sales & Marketing. “As part of one of Nintendo’s most storied franchises, this new Punch-Out!! game will surprise and delight fans with even more ways to enjoy its timeless game play.”

Remember that Wii features parental controls that let adults manage the content their children can access. For more information about this and other Wii features, visit Wii.com.

For more information about Punch-Out!!, visit www.PunchOut.com.