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Ignition Entertainment is Pleased to Announce the European Release of BOING! DOCOMODAKE DS
Putting the ‘fun’ into fungi
Based upon the mascot of the leading Japanese mobile phone company, NTT DOCOMO, INC. – Boing! Docomodake DS will be released exclusively for the Nintendo DS™ this Autumn.
Set on the day of the annual festival held in the DocomodakeForest, the Docomodake family is nowhere to be seen! You play as Papa Docomodake and guide him through various obstacles and challenges in order to find his family and get them to the festival on time.

Obviously, Papa Docomodake has a trick or two to help him on his quest. With a tap of the stylus he can release ‘Minis’ that aid him when the going gets a little tough. Remember, Minis make the impossible possible!
‘Boing! Docomodake DS has all the elements needed for a great platform game’, says Peter Rollinson, Product Manager, Ignition Entertainment Ltd. ‘the game has a wide ranging appeal, and offers more than enough to keep all gamers happy’.
For further information please visit:www.ignitionent.com/docomodake
Boing! Docomodake DS will be available Autumn ’08 exclusively for the Nintendo DS™

 

 

Prepare To Be Blown Away!!
Tornado, putting the wind up Nintendo DS™ owners this Autumn
Ignition Entertainment is pleased to announce the European release of Tornado exclusively for the Nintendo DS™. This marks the second collaboration between Ignition and Japanese developer and publisher Success, who previously teamed up to release the successful Zoo Keeper.

The devious collector of planets, only known as the ‘The Prince’, has set his evil intentions to Planet Earth. But this planet is like no other he has conquered. Filled with an uncontrollable desire to possess items from this unique world, he lets loose his ultimate weapon – the Black Hole Device – to suck up all the desirable items from Earth and transport them back to his home planet.
Equipped with their ‘Tornado Machines’, Toki and his Cosmic Cleaners are normally charged with sucking up and disposing of litter, but today they have a higher purpose – take back what is rightfully ours!!
Will the Cosmic Cleaners be able to take on ‘The Prince’ and reclaim Earths items? We certainly hope so!!!
‘Tornado is a game that has great appeal, likeable characters and engrossing gameplay’
, says Peter Rollinson, Product Manager, Ignition Entertainment Ltd. ‘see for yourself, take it for a spin (sorry!)’
‘Skonec a leading game development company in Korea and we are so happy to see "Tornado" being released to the European market.’ said Skonec Producer JeongHwoan Choi. "We are very excited to be working with Ignition Entertainment to bring Tornado to the Nintendo DS"

For further information please visit:www.ignitionent.com
Tornado will be available Autumn ’08 exclusively for the Nintendo DS™

 

 

 

Metal Slug 7 To Explode Onto The Nintendo DS™

The Original ‘Run and Gun’ Returns

SNK PLAYMORE and Ignition Entertainment are pleased to announce the upcoming European release of Metal Slug 7 for Nintendo DS™.
This title marks the debut of this highly regarded franchise onto the Nintendo DS™, and will deliver the fast paced and frantic ‘run and gun’ action that is associated with the series that has recently enjoyed its’ 10th anniversary.
The battle scars from the previous war against General Morden had started to fade and the reconstruction of the cities and the army was well underway. The people had started to feel safe again, but when a mysterious figure is spotted on a routine scouting of Garbage Island it seems that this war is far from over.
Join Marco, Fio, Tarma, Eri, along with Ralf and Clark (returning fresh from some fighting tournament you maybe familiar with) and get ready to once again take on the forces of General Morden.
Spanning 7 new missions, 6 playable characters and a host of new weapons and features Metal Slug 7 continues the standards of the titles before it. Oh, and there is the introduction of the biggest and baddest SLUG vehicle to date...
‘With a Metal Slug game you know that you’re going to have a hugely enjoyable experience’ Says Peter Rollinson, Product Manager, Ignition Entertainment ‘The latest addition to this great franchise will continue that trend’.
For further information please visit:www.ignitionent.com
Metal Slug 7 will be available Autumn ‘08 for the Nintendo DS™


 

XBOX 360 SALES DOUBLE IN EUROPE

European leadership position strengthened following recent price adjustment
The momentum behind Xbox 360 continues to grow, as Microsoft today announced that European sales have more than doubled in the wake of recent adjustments of the estimated retail price (ERP), solidifying its leadership position as the number one next-generation console in Europe and significantly broadening the console’s audience.
“Xbox 360 is truly the next-generation console of choice among consumers, and today’s numbers are proof that we are delivering on our commitment to achieve critical mass in Europe,” said Chris Lewis, Vice President, Microsoft Interactive Entertainment Business Europe. “The highly competitive ERP, coupled with entertainment content that’s appealing to everyone in the home, makes Xbox 360 the ultimate high-definition entertainment choice, and it’s clear that we’re already seeing this resonate with consumers.”
Xbox 360 is the number one next-gen console in EMEA, owning 42% of the market in terms of life-to-date revenue. Xbox 360 continues to enjoy the highest software attach rate of any game console in Europe with more than 7.0 games sold per console (PS3: 3.8; Wii 3.5) after 27 months on the market.
On Friday, 14th March, Microsoft lowered the ERP for its Xbox 360™ family of consoles in Europe. Now with an entry-level ERP of £159.99, Xbox 360 is a video game and entertainment system that is appealing to an even broader audience. Upcoming releases of blockbuster games such as “Grand Theft Auto IV,” “Rock Band,” “Lego Indiana Jones” and “Ninja Gaiden 2,” will continue this momentum and give consumers even more reasons to buy Xbox 360.

 


The Golden Compass

 


Explore the realms of the North and the cloisters of Jordan College as you flee from the Gobblers playing as heroic Lyra, her cunning daemon Pan or battling as armoured bear Iorek. You’ll solve puzzles, explore new worlds and go into combat to unravel the mysteries of The Golden Compass.


The Golden Compass launches on November 30th and is available on the Xbox 360, PS3, PS2 Nintendo Wii and DS. For information check out
www.sega.com/gamesite/goldencompass

 


COOK, LEARN, PLAY, DESIGN


- Live out dream roles with the Imagine Range from Ubisoft -

Whether they’ve always dreamt of becoming a vet, famous fashion designer, the next Junior Master Chef or even the world’s best baby sitter, the Imagine range from Ubisoft has something for everyone this Winter!

For the Nintendo DS™ and with the aim to capture the imagination, creativeness, and social side, the fun Imagine Range has been created to match the interests and ambitions of young people across the country. With these enjoyable and nurturing titles, pre-teens can explore cooking with Imagine™ Happy Cooking, curing animals with Imagine™ Pet Vet, caring with Imagine™ Babies and creating with Imagine™ Fashion Designer!

Imagine Happy Cooking takes girls and boys on a journey around the kitchen, guiding them through over 50 recipes and teaching the art of preparation to create lovely dishes for the family. Containing a fun storyline that teaches budding Nigellas and Jamies to knead, chop, fry and grill, they’ll gather all the essential skills needed to become mum’s special helper in the kitchen. Through several steps it teaches the player the importance of washing their hands, kitchen safety, food storage and also presentation to create the perfect meal.

Experience Imagine Fashion Designer to learn all the tricks of the fashion trade from fabrics and colours to shapes and accessories. Players can design their own clothes, dress up models, direct photo shoots and then produce their very own fashion show to show off all their fab designs, proving they’ve got what it takes to succeed in the cut throat world of fashion!

Step into the world of Imagine Pet Vet and become a master vet by learning the vital skills required, including taking care of various animals and building an efficient surgery. Using the correct instruments, players have to deliver fast and accurate diagnosis on their patients and treat a variety of illnesses to improve the reputation of the business.
The important role even involves maintaining and furnishing the surgery to ensure a welcoming environment for people and their pets. Players can even use the Nintendo DS wireless connection to interact with Pippa Funnell 2 Farm Adventures and take care of horses and foals that need help.

For youngsters who fancy taking on that extra bit of responsibility and looking after a little one, Imagine Babies allows them to assume the role of a babysitter, in control of a number of charges. The player has to feed them, change them and keep them entertained and contented, returning them to their families in a happy state. But looking after babies needs a welcoming home so users have to undertake numerous mini games to maintain the lovely house. Users can demonstrate their creative powers as they use money earnt to shop and decorate to their own style.

RRP £19.99

 

 


Deal or No Deal comes to the PC - Can YOU beat The Banker?


Focus Multimedia and Mindscape have launched the official Deal or No Deal PC game, giving fans the chance to play and personalise their favourite TV game show in the comfort of their own homes.
Hosted by Noel Edmonds, Endemol’s Deal or No Deal is one of the most popular programmes on TV, regularly taking contestants – along with millions of avid viewers - on an emotional white-knuckle ride. The award-winning
game show has proven a major hit on Channel 4, achieving audiences of up to 4.5 million viewers and recently celebrating its 500th show.
Have you ever wondered how you would fare in the crazy chair? Well now it’s your chance to find out…will you make the right deal at the right time, or will you risk it all and walk away with nothing? Take the walk of wealth on your PC,
as you and your friends and family compete to win a life-changing sum of money!
With game play identical to the TV show, each sealed box in the Deal or No Deal PC game contains a sum of money ranging from 1p to £250,000. It’s a mystery how much is in each box, but somehow players must eliminate the boxes containing the smaller amounts, keeping the larger amounts in play as long as possible. Both Noel and the other contestants urge players on to beat The Banker, but will they hold their nerves and win the jackpot? Or will they
play safe and make a deal with The Banker?
Featuring a wealth of innovative features, the Deal or No Deal PC game gives fans the chance to play on their own, or with family and friends. For the first time on PC, players can even take on the role of The Banker and try to make contestants accept the lowest offer possible!
Another unique and exciting feature is the Forfeit Game, which allows players to choose their own prizes. Rather than the usual sums of money, you can try to win a week of pampering…or maybe you’ll end up doing the cleaning instead!
With 22 identical boxes and a quarter of a million pounds at stake, players will be desperate to have “just one more go” – especially as every player’s performance is recorded for posterity on the Deal or No Deal leaderboard!

The Deal or No Deal PC game has been developed by Mindscape and is published by Focus Multimedia.
Craig Johnson, Managing Director of Focus Multimedia, commented: “The Deal or No Deal PC game has all the nail-biting drama of the trail-blazing TV show. With the ability to compete against family and friends, and a fully rendered 3D Noel Edmonds as your host, the Deal or No Deal PC game is going to top of a lot of Christmas lists this festive season.”

RRP £14.99

Fancy a Christmas discount when you place an order at Focus Multimedia? Quote the discount code “frombumptogrump” in the “Discount Coupon” box on the right hand side of checkout for free P&P on all orders over £5!

 


Multimedia Britannica® Enhanced for 2008


The UK’s best-selling encyclopedia software* – now with new tools, sleek navigation and free online subscription

September 2007 – Whether you’re eager to delve behind the day’s headlines and explore the background to current affairs, or you’re researching an academic project where accuracy is an absolute must, the new Encyclopædia Britannica 2008 Ultimate DVD-ROM is the essential reference suite for all ages.

Ideal for homework, research or for swift access to accurate information, the Encyclopædia Britannica 2008 Ultimate DVD-ROM provides a safe learning environment that is suitable for the whole family.

Three complete age related and easy-to-use encyclopedias on one disc put over 100,000 reliable articles at your fingertips:

• The Encyclopaedia Britannica®, for adults.
• Britannica Student Encyclopedia, for students aged 10 to 14
• Britannica Children’s Encyclopedia, for children aged 6 to 10

Whether you are an entry-level, advanced, or student researcher, you will easily find what you need — simply select the version that is right for you.

Each encyclopedia forms the cornerstone of an integrated reference library with its own distinctive interface that includes a dictionary, thesaurus, atlas and historical timelines appropriate to the age of the user.

Britannica is always striving to exceed its own high standards of quality, excellence, and accuracy, and this year is no exception. New features such as Britannica Workspace enhance this unbeatable resource.

Britannica Workspace allows users to organise their research and save multiple projects for easy access. Add an article, video or image to your Workspace with just a single mouse click. In addition to a sleeker and more intuitive interface, the product’s redesigned Explore feature provides engaging, interactive tours of special topics. A new special feature, Britannica Biographies, includes more than 2,000 articles on the greatest minds of all time.

Other exclusive features include:

• Britannica BrainStormer - this popular visual browser is based on Britannica’s unique classification system and provides an exhilarating ride through the vast array of articles, making research easier and more fun.
• 166,000 online links to Britannica approved magazine articles and high quality websites.
• Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary & Thesaurus.
• Rich multimedia – thousands of images, audio and video clips that bring subjects to life.

Lotta Farley, Head of Consumer Markets for Encyclopædia Britannica UK, said:

“The Encyclopædia Britannica 2008 Ultimate DVD-ROM is extensive, reliable and up to date, it’s a pleasure to use, and this year it’s better than ever.”

Britannica 2008 Ultimate DVD-ROM is published by one of the UK’s leading software publishers, Focus Multimedia, whose Managing Director Craig Johnson said:

“Encyclopædia Britannica sets the standard by which other reference works are judged, so I’m delighted to strengthen our existing relationship with Britannica by publishing the brand new 2008 edition of the world’s most famous and trusted encyclopedia. The Britannica 2008 Ultimate DVD-ROM contains the equivalent of over 74 printed volumes. With trusted content worth in excess of £1,500, the customer is getting exceptional value for money.”

Britannica 2008 is available on DVD-ROM for Windows and Macintosh computers with a suggested retail price of £39.99. Customers also get a free one-year subscription to Britannica's online premium service (worth £39.99). The Britannica software range also includes the Britannica 2008 Children's Encyclopedia CD-ROM SRP £19.99. Products will be available in all good software retail stores from the end of August 2007. Customers will also be able to order direct from Focus Multimedia by calling 01889 570156 or visiting www.britannica2008.co.uk

*Source: ChartTrack, UK retail unit sales from January 1st, 2006 - June 30th, 2007.

Fancy a Christmas discount when you place an order at Focus Multimedia? Quote the discount code “frombumptogrump” in the “Discount Coupon” box on the right hand side of checkout for free P&P on all orders over £5!

 

 

 

Alan Hansen fronts new quiz video game

Liverpool legend and leading football pundit, Alan Hansen has signed up to front a brand new sports quiz game from Oxygen Interactive – Alan Hansen’s Sports Challenge available on Wii™, PlayStation®2 and PC
The ex-Liverpool defensive lynchpin turns quizmaster in the game, asking questions covering football, rugby and cricket as well as many other sports.
For the first time ever in a game, Hansen actually appears as a computer generated character and not just a voice. Talking about how it feels to be immortalised in a computer game, Alan says:
“It’s slightly odd looking at myself in the game. Of course I’m used to seeing myself on the screen, be it playing football or in the studio commentating. But this is different – uncanny. And I do quite like the fact that in the game, I get the questions right every time!

 

 

 

The Art of Adventure…

Crayola® title drawing nearer to the European Nintendo DS™

Crave Entertainment and Ignition Entertainment is pleased to announce the European release of Crayola® Treasure Adventures for the Nintendo DS™.

Become an adventurer and explore various exotic locations and meet new friends on your journey of discovery. Armed only with your treasure map and Crayola® crayons you must draw, colour and think your way through challenging obstacles, fun mini-games and exciting quests to reclaim the stolen colour crystals and restore colour to the world.

‘Crayola® crayons has always been synonymous with creativity and fun, and have been part of everybody’s childhood’ said Peter Rollinson, Product Manager, Ignition Entertainment ‘The Nintendo DS™ is the perfect platform for creativity on the go’

‘We’re very excited to partner with Ignition Entertainment and Crave Entertainment on this new videogame project,” said Chuck Linden, managing director, Crayola Europe. “Crayola Treasure Adventures allows kids to be creative and adventurous through color and fun in a thought-provoking, developmental setting ~ that is what our brand is all about."

Since its inception in 1903, the Crayola® brand has grown into one of the most respected and recognizable brands in the consumer marketplace. Today consumers equate the brand with colour, fun, quality and development--all the characteristics that are reinforced in their growing product line which includes crayons, markers, coloured pencils, paints, modeling compounds and craft and activity products for use in schools and homes. The brand has come a long way since the first box of 8 Crayola® crayons made its debut in 1903. Currently the company makes more than 100 different crayon colours as well as an array of materials to stimulate children's creative development -- while having fun!

An adventure that proves that the crayon is mightier than the sword.

Key Features:

Draw, colour and think your way through exotic locations and exciting adventures
Transform your stylus into 120 authentic digital Crayola® crayons to colour with
Be creative with over 100 pictures to colour in the digital colouring book
Play mini games including Dot to Dot, Jigsaw Puzzles and Speed Colouring
Experience beautifully created landscapes and colourful environments
Earn rewards of bonus crayons and pictures throughout your adventure
Restore colour to the world while making new friends along the way
Crayola® Treasure Adventures for the Nintendo DS™ is scheduled for release Q1 ’08.

For further information please visit: www.ignitionent.com/crayola

 

 

 

 

Computer games aren’t just for kids; they can be fun for the whole family too, so pick up a controller and get playing

Play is a key part of a child’s development and every parent understands the benefits that regular play has on their kids. But it’s not just something that should be restricted to your childhood.

Play can also benefit adults by reducing stress, improving energy levels, stimulating creativity and generally being a lot of fun, releasing the inner child in everyone. While it may be a bit odd to join in with your kids during some activities, one great way to get involved is with computer games.

Kids love playing on their various consoles and while at first it might not seem to be as beneficial as more traditional forms of play; the same advantages are there to be seen.

Playing computer games as a family is not only fantastic entertainment, it can be a great bonding experience too and certain games also aid a child’s development.

Things such as hand-eye coordination, problem solving, perseverance and even reading are all key elements of many games.

Thrillville: Off the Rails (released 19 October 2007) the game where players create and experience their own theme park, encourages creativity by letting players design their own roller coasters, while the mission-0based frame work often involves deep thinking and even business acumen. Indeed, games such as these are often used in American universities as part of courses in business studies and management.

Obviously play is all about fun as well and games such as the Bee Movie Game (out in November), based on DreamWorks Animation’s Bee Movie film (released to cinemas 14 December 2007), lets players race, chase and fly their way through an exciting world of adventure, as they experience the antics of Barry B. Benson, a dynamic and daring bee who knows there is more to life than making honey.

Kids will love the characters, colours and storyline as they try and help save the bees’ production of honey, while the skills they use to navigate each level and mission, not to mention the dexterity needed on the controller, will be beneficial in other areas too.

Music teachers are often surprised at how well young children are able to read music without looking at what their hands are doing on the instrument, but it’s often a skill they have picked up from playing videogames, where they use intricate movements on the controller without taking their eyes off the screen.

Studies have also shown that kids burn three times as many calories when playing ‘active’ video games, such as those on Nintendo’s Wii. Using the motion sensitive controller to swish your lightsaber around in Lego Star Wars: The Complete Saga (also on sale from November) is certainly quite a workout and one that you can get involved in too – this is finally your chance to become Han Solo!

 

 

 


XBOX® ANNOUNCES FREE MOVIES WITH HD-DVD PLAYER

Microsoft® teams up with leading film studios to offer free HD-DVDs

LONDON, Friday October 19th - Microsoft today announces a major promotion with Hollywood's leading film studios that will offer five blockbuster movie HD-DVDs completely free when you buy the Xbox 360 HD-DVD player at an ERP* of £114.99.

From now until the 31st January 2008, anyone who purchases the state-of-the-art HD-DVD player for their Xbox 360 will be able to choose from 13 major film titles from studios including Warner Brothers, Universal, Dreamworks and Paramount. To receive their movies, customers simply send in a form, along with the barcode of their new HD-DVD player and Microsoft will ensure they are sent their HD-DVDs within 28 working days.

Commenting on the deal, Stephen McGill, Head of Gaming and Entertainment for Microsoft UK said: "The HD-DVD player for Xbox 360 gives customers a high quality and affordable way to enjoy state-of-the-art HD-DVD movies. We're delighted to enable everyone to enjoy the technology to the full and offer some fantastic movie releases, completely free."

The titles on offer are: Serenity, The Chronicles of Riddick, Hulk, Children of Men, The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift, Troy, Full Metal Jacket, Corpse Bride, The Prestige, Swordfish, Black Rain, Dreamgirls, Word Trade Centre.

*(ERP - Estimated Retail Price)

 

 

 

LOOK OUT FOR SEGA RALLY GRAFFITI ON A DIRTY CAR NEAR YOU

SEGA Rally is causing a stir on dirty cars and vans up and down the country with its new street advertising campaign. Vehicles everywhere are being scrawled on with messages relating to the newly released game.

SEGA have been encouraging people to get down and dirty for the launch of their game SEGA Rally by urging fans to advertise the game on their own dirty cars.

“King of Rally” and “SEGA Rally revs up for 2007” are being written on mucky machines by the public as part of the launch campaign for SEGA Rally.

The UK is being urged to graffiti dirty vehicles with messages of support for the new game.

SEGA Rally is available on PS3, PSP, Xbox 360 and PC.

 

 

 

CakeMania for the Nintendo DS™

Now you can practice your baking skills on the move as the hugely popular online game Cake Mania is now heading for a Nintendo DS release on 14th September.

The fast-paced culinary crisis makes the perfect edition to a long-journey or daily commute. Utilising the Touch Screen experience players have to wait for customer requests, bake their cakes, ice and decorate them, then hand them out and collect their cash.

The online game, which has been downloaded over 35million times worldwide has earned the iParenting Media Award and the 2006 Casual Game of the Year award from Yahoo Games.

With over 84 fast-paced levels, the DS version takes all the best bits from the online game and mixes this with the capabilities of the Nintendo DS.

So if you can’t afford that kitchen you’ve always wanted, or you need to practice your baking skills, then this games is for you as you can purchase kitchen upgrades including ovens, shoes, decorations and frosting machines, and learn to make creative cakes for all occasions.

 

 

 

 

My Best Friends: Cats & Dogs for the Nintendo DS™

You will soon be able to get the pet your child has always wanted, but instead of having to choose between a cat and a dog, they can now have both.
My Best Friends: Cats & Dogs for the Nintendo DS™ is due out 14th September and in a similar style to the huge Nintendogs range, Cats & Dogs gives children the unique opportunity to play with, and cuddle, Dalmatian, Husky, German Shepherd and Retriever puppies and Siamese, Maine Coon, British Blue and Domestic cats.

Children learn the values of long-term pet care, in a cheaper and more maintainable way as they must master how to clean, groom and teach their pets lots of crazy tricks. The more tender loving care they give them, the more their friendship develops.

By using the DS stylus the game also offers educational benefits teaching children how to use touch screen technology and how to perform a huge range of varied actions.

So, with lots of action packed games waiting for your child to enjoy, it seems the perfect “back to School” present.

 

 


Microsoft Introduces Star-Studded Lineup of Japanese Developers and Blockbuster New Games for Xbox 360

Japan’s best developers are betting big on Xbox 360 in 2007 and beyond, as Microsoft announces best-ever holiday entertainment lineup.

London, 12th September 2007 — Flanked by a who’s who of Japanese gaming luminaries and video game development legends, Takashi Sensui, general manager of the Home and Entertainment Division at Microsoft Co. Ltd., took the stage at the Yebisu Garden Hall during Xbox 360 Briefing 2007 to announce support from some of Japan’s most renowned game developers and unveil an unparalleled lineup of holiday blockbuster hits and exclusives for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system.

Two of Japan’s most celebrated game developers, Tomonobu Itagaki from Team NINJA/Tecmo Ltd. and Hironobu Sakaguchi from Mistwalker, joined Sensui onstage to announce their support for the Xbox 360 platform. Itagaki highlighted the announcement that Team NINJA will develop “NINJA GAIDEN® 2,” the true sequel to the best-selling and critically acclaimed Xbox® original, exclusively for Xbox 360. Sakaguchi revealed pricing1 and availability for Mistwalker’s upcoming role-playing game (RPG) “Lost Odyssey™,” available from 6th December 2007 in Japan and around the world in early 2008. In addition, representatives from SQUARE ENIX took the stage to discuss two new games for Xbox 360: “INFINITE UNDISCOVERY™” and “THE LAST REMNANT™.”

 

Japanese Developers Embrace Xbox 360

“NINJA GAIDEN® 2” is the long-awaited sequel to the platinum-selling Xbox original, where players once again assume the role of Ryu Hayabusa as they guide the ninja hero on a quest to avenge his clan and prevent the destruction of the human race. Team NINJA’s announcement that “NINJA GAIDEN® 2” will be exclusive to Xbox 360 and available worldwide in 2008 provided gamers everywhere with plenty of reason for excitement, and served as yet another example of the blockbuster games being created by Japanese developers exclusively for the platform.

Xbox 360 owners in Japan will be the first to experience the magical world of “Lost Odyssey,” created by Mistwalker/feelplus Inc., and featuring a beautifully told story by Hironobu Sakaguchi, creator of the “Final Fantasy” video game franchise. Available 6th December 2007 in Japan, January 2008 in Asia, and February 2008 in North America and Europe, “Lost Odyssey” headlines a lineup of games by Japanese developers for Xbox 360 owners around the world this holiday, including these:

“Ace Combat 6: Fires of Liberation” (NAMCO BANDAI Games). “Ace Combat 6: Fires of Liberation” takes players up to the sky and into the heat of realistic air combat with next-generation audio and visual effects and online multiplayer action.2 Available this holiday, only on Xbox 360.

“Beautiful Katamari” (NAMCO BANDAI Games). Marking the debut of Namco’s beloved ball-rolling puzzle game on a next-generation platform, “Beautiful Katamari,” the fourth installment of the “Katamari” series, features levels of quirkiness, cosmic animations and musical stylings never seen before. Available in October.

“Lost Odyssey” (Microsoft Game Studios/Mistwalker/feelplus Inc.). Famed game producer Hironobu Sakaguchi leads a staff of gaming masters to bring a truly next-generation role-playing experience to Xbox 360 in “Lost Odyssey.” Players will be led through a dramatic story of massive scale that features breathtaking visuals and an epic adventure made possible only by the power of Xbox 360. Available 6th December 2007, in Japan, and worldwide in 2008, only on Xbox 360.

Plus:

· “Battlefield: Bad Company” (Electronic Arts)

· “Battlestations: Midway” (Eidos)

· “Bladestorm: The Hundred Years’ War” (KOEI Co. Ltd.)

· “CASTLE SHIKIGAMI III” (ArcSystemWorks Co. Ltd.)

· “Dynasty Warriors 6” (KOEI Co. Ltd.)

· “Dynasty Warriors: Gundam” (NAMCO BANDAI Games)

· “Final Fantasy XI Play Online All in One Pack 2007” (SQUARE ENIX)

· “Final Fantasy XI Wings of the Goddess” (SQUARE ENIX)

· “Just Cause” (Electronic Arts)

· “Mobile Ops: The One Year War” (NAMCO BANDAI Games)

· “Operation Darkness” (SUCCESS Corp.)

· “Winning Eleven: Pro Evolution Soccer 2008” (Konami)

· “ZOIDS ALTERNATIVE” (TOMY Co. Ltd.)

This incredible lineup joins many other amazing games from developers around the globe that will be available this holiday in Japan and around the world, including the following:

“Assassin’s Creed” (Ubisoft Entertainment). “Assassin’s Creed” is the next-generation game developed by Ubisoft that merges technology, game design, theme and emotions into a world where players will assume the role of the main character, Altair, and will have the power to throw their immediate environment into chaos and experience the art of a master assassin. Available this November.

“Halo 3” (Microsoft Game Studios/Bungie Studios). In “Halo® 3,” the third installment of the landmark “Halo” trilogy and hugely anticipated sequel to the critically acclaimed “Halo 2,” people everywhere can take on the role of Master Chief™ and experience Master Chief’s greatest battle as he launches an epic mission to stop the Covenant, destroy the impending Flood threat and ultimately save mankind. In this third chapter of the “Halo” trilogy, Master Chief returns to face his greatest challenge as he readies himself for the final battle and seals his place in history. A hero must rise. Believe. Available worldwide, with availability in Europe on 26th September 2007 only on Xbox 360.

“Kingdom Under Fire: Circle of Doom” (Microsoft/Blueside Inc.). Six heroes from the “Kingdom Under Fire” universe fight their way through the Dark Dimension against hordes of demented monsters in a twisted action RPG exclusive to Xbox 360. Coming this winter, “KUF:COD” features seamless four-player co-op2 via Xbox LIVE®, randomly generated maps and nearly infinite weapons combos with unique abilities, enhancements and magical powers for players to learn and master.

“Project Gotham Racing 4” (Microsoft Game Studios/Bizarre Creations Ltd.). “Project Gotham Racing® 4” will redefine the acclaimed “PGR®” franchise by delivering a unique, exciting racing experience complete with dynamic weather and iconic cars and motorcycles. Available this October, only on Xbox 360.

“Viva Piñata: Party Animals” (Microsoft Game Studios/Krome Studios Pty. Ltd.). An exciting new party game based on the critically acclaimed Xbox 360 exclusive and hit animated TV series, “Viva Piñata™: Party Animals” brings back the familiar piñata characters and invites players to compete in more than 40 mini-games against friends at home or over Xbox LIVE.2 Available this |Christmas, only on Xbox 360.

“Gamers around the world can look forward to the greatest holiday lineup in video game history,” said Don Mattrick, senior vice president of the Interactive Entertainment Business in the Entertainment and Devices Division at Microsoft Corp. “We continue to evolve our strong relationships with Japan’s best and most innovative developers, and we’re looking forward to delivering exclusive high-definition titles for consumers worldwide, this year and beyond.”

 

Xbox LIVE Arcade Continues High-Definition Downloadable Games Innovation in Japan

Japanese developers have long embraced and championed Xbox LIVE Arcade, with hits including “Pac-Man Championship Edition” (NAMCO BANDAI Games), “Bomberman Live” (Hudson Entertainment), “Frogger” (Konami) and “Fatal Fury Special” (SNK PLAYMORE Corp.). Several new titles from these and other Japanese developers will be added to the diverse portfolio of digitally distributed, high-definition original and classic games currently available on Xbox LIVE Arcade, including the following:

“Every Extend Extra Extreme” (Q Entertainment). The latest creation from Q Entertainment, “Every Extend Extra Extreme,” or E4, is a unique action-packed shooter where the goal is to perfectly time your self-destruction to create chain reactions that explode surrounding enemies. With outrageous visuals and the ability to play your own favorite music, E4 puts a new twist on puzzle shooter games.

“EXIT” (Taito). An addictive, frenzied puzzle game, “EXIT” has players using their decision-making skills and wits to escape numerous obstacles, while rescuing people from more than 100 different emergencies. Players must save as many lives as possible while finding the fastest way out when “EXIT” arrives on Xbox LIVE Arcade by the end of the year.

“Ikaruga” (Treasure Co. Ltd.). “Ikaruga” is a quick-paced shooter with strong strategy elements featuring a slow-motion training mode and co-op play for two.2 Available soon for download from Xbox LIVE Arcade, “Ikaruga” is the perfect combination of beautiful, manga-style storytelling and refined, ultra-challenging arcade heroics.

“OMEGA FIVE” (Hudson Entertainment). “OMEGA FIVE” is a next-generation, high-definition shooter with awe-inspiring graphics. Players fly through dangerous 3-D environments in this side-scroller and try to avoid the enemies that come at them from all sides, even from behind.

“Rez” (Q Entertainment). “Rez,” the legendary action-shooter created by Tetsuya Mizuguchi, is coming to Xbox LIVE Arcade. A fast-moving, wire-frame adventure backed by industrial beats, the story of “Rez” takes players deep into the world’s computer network, where they must hack the system, altering the visual output and even taking over the music, creating their own rhythms and eye candy as they dig deeper into the dreamlike cyberworld.

“Triggerheart Exelica” (Warashi). A shoot’em-up game where players battle against hordes of enemy ships, “Triggerheart Exelica” dynamically adjusts the difficulty to match a player’s skill level. “Triggerheart Exelica” launches on Xbox LIVE Arcade this year.

Other exciting Xbox LIVE Arcade games available in the coming months include these:

“Braid” (Number None Inc.). Arriving in early 2008 on Xbox LIVE Arcade, “Braid” is a platformer/puzzle game. The player journeys across seven worlds to rescue a princess; in each world, time behaves in its own peculiar way. The player must cleverly manipulate the flow of time to solve puzzles. “Braid” aims to provide a mind-expanding, filler-free experience.

“Castlecrashers” (The Behemoth). Arriving in early 2008 on Xbox LIVE Arcade, “Castlecrashers” is the second title currently in development by award-winning independent developer the Behemoth. The four-player RPG adventure will let players hack, slash and smash their way to victory. “Castlecrashers” delivers unique high-resolution illustrated visuals, including memorably hand-drawn characters that are cute and menacing at the same time. Gamers can play with up to three friends locally or over Xbox LIVE2 and discover mind-boggling magic and mystery in the amazing world of “Castlecrashers.”

“Schizoid” (Torpex Games LLC). “Schizoid,” from independent studio Torpex Games, is the first Xbox LIVE Arcade game to be created with XNA™ Game Studio. Debuting on Xbox LIVE Arcade later this year, “Schizoid” is an action-packed game focused on co-op gameplay2 in which players smash barrages of glowing enemies while cooperating closely to protect each other.

 

Microsoft Brings Tokyo Game Show Home With Xbox LIVE

Once again, Microsoft will bring the Tokyo Game Show experience into living rooms worldwide as it offers its “TGS Bring It Home” programming, delivering hours of coverage from the press briefing, all the best highlights from the show floor, interviews with developers, gameplay videos, exclusive cinematic trailers and a variety of Xbox 360 content for gamers to download over Xbox LIVE Marketplace, beginning 13th September 2007.


 

THE BEST JUST GOT BETTER . . .

MotoGP07 is the fourth and most revolutionary in the heralded series of MotoGP titles for mobile handsets. Taking the genre a step further with stunning 3D visuals and environments. MotoGP’07 not only includes all the adrenalin-packed MotoGP races, tracks, bikes and riders from previous versions; but also features all new 2007 season data, realistic weather conditions and crash simulations for the most faithful mobile racer yet!

• The only officially licensed Dorna MotoGP™ product for wireless, featuring official riders, bikes, tracks and 2007 season data
• For the first time featuring stunning 3D visuals in real-time 3D environment
• Realistic crash simulations bringing you closer to the danger
• Weather effects including solar flare and spray from near by opponents
• 16 separate official tracks
• Bikes and riders appearance as based on teams of visual styles

For more information visit www.thqwireless.com

MotoGP’07 is available now! Text ‘MOTOGP’ to 88188 (cost £4.50)

 

 

 

 

Nintendo Wii helps to burn calories
Playing new style computer games can help people burn up a significant number of calories, research has found.
Games consoles such as Nintendo Wii require players to use body movements to control the action.

A study by Liverpool John Moores University found regular use could help shift 27lb (12.25kg) a year.

The study was carried out to establish whether computer games can contribute to the daily activity recommendations for children.

The researchers compared activity levels during gaming using the Wii with those achieved using traditional seated joypad-controlled consoles.

They found more active forms of gaming increased energy expenditure to a level which could help lose weight.

Heart rate

Lead researcher Professor Tim Cable said: "Through our testing it is clear that the motion sensor-controlled console can make an impact on a child's heart rate, energy expenditure and the amount of calories burned.

"Research from GameVision's Consumer Intelligence Report shows that, on average, gamers in the UK currently spendaround 12.2 hours a week playing computer games.

"Therefore, it is important to promote as much activity as possible during this time."

Professor Cable said active consoles such as the Wii could provide a means of motivating children who are less active.

But he added: "Parents should encourage other physical activities and outdoor pursuits in order for their children to lead well-balanced lives."

Children do play these computer games because they find them fascinating, and so it would be best if the games they play include an element of physical activity

The study measured the impact on five girls and seven boys, aged between 13 and 15, of playing both an active and inactive console.

During 15 minutes of play using a traditional joypad operated console, energy expenditure increased above resting values by an average 60%.

In comparison, when using the Wii console, the participants' energy expenditure increased 156% above resting.

Based on the average gaming week of 12.2 hours, this translates to a potential 1,830 calories burned per week when using Wii - 40% more than when using a traditional format console.

In both conditions the energy expenditure of boys was greater than that observed for girls.

Heart rates were also much greater when using the active console, reaching values of 130 beats per minute, compared with 85 beats per minute for the traditional console.

Dr Ian Campbell, medical director of the charity Weight Concern, said children should be encouraged to play outside, and that parents should limit the amount of time they played computer games.

However, he said: "Children do play these computer games because they find them fascinating, and so it would be best if the games they play include an element of physical activity."

Source: BBC News


 

   

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