Game On!

u Who: GameTap, Turner Broadcasting’s first-of-its-kind broadband entertainment network, which features video games on-demand and original TV-on-the-Web shows geared toward fans of the video game lifestyle

u What: GameTap, with the 11th addition to its burgeoning slate of original programming, is set to premiere GameTap News, the video game industry’s “all-access pass” to the movers and shakers in the industry, offering a deep dive on the big stories of the day and the little known facts that gamers care about. Featuring interviews, exclusive interviews and footage from industry events such as E3, the latest and greatest trailers from the hottest upcoming games, and the lowdown on all industry happenings, GameTap News is the comprehensive online destination for both the serious and casual gamer.

u When: First episode premieres on Thursday, June 29,

2006 with following episodes to air on a weekly basis

u Where: www.gametap.com; within GameTap TV

u Why: With video on-demand quickly becoming popular for broadband consumers, there is a natural synergy between the Internet culture and video games. Gamers are increasingly looking online for news and industry updates of the most highly anticipated games, with content catered specifically to this unique culture.

Victor Lucas, a self-confirmed media junkie and lifelong lover of video games, is one of the industry’s most well-respected journalists, with access to the highest profile personalities in the world. With an uncanny ability to get in-depth insight into the big stories of the day, Victor is adept at uncovering the little known facts that gamers care about.

Overview:

GameTap is set to premiere GameTap News, a hip, weekly addition to its original content, examining the ins and outs of the video game industry, from an insider’s point of view.

GameTap delivers hundreds of the greatest games-on-demand plus original programming via a broadband-connected PC.

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 3:55 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Los Angeles, Calif. (June 28, 2006) – Square Enix, Inc., the publisher of Square Enix™ interactive entertainment products in North America, today announced that FINAL FANTASY® XII will be available in stores October 31, 2006, exclusively for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system.

In addition, a limited run of the FINAL FANTASY XII Collector’s Edition will be available exclusively at GameStop and EB Games stores, as well as through the e-commerce sites GameStop.com and EBgames.com. Housed within special packaging, the bonus DVD offers Japanese and American promotional trailers, in-depth developer interviews, an art gallery and featurettes focusing on highlights of the FINAL FANTASY franchise.

FINAL FANTASY XII, which has sold over 2.4 million units in Japan since its release on March 16, 2006, will retail for a suggested retail price of $49.99 (USD) and $59.99 (USD) for the Collector’s Edition.

About FINAL FANTASY XII

Story

As war looms on the horizon, the mighty Archadian Empire begins a campaign to subjugate its neighbors. The small kingdom of Dalmasca shares their fate, and it is here that our tale begins.

Two years after the fall of Dalmasca, the citizens are without guidance and direction. In the capital city of Rabanastre, the denizens gather and await the introduction of Archadia’s new consul. To Vaan, a young man living on the streets of Rabanastre, the Empire is a hated enemy who took the life of his brother, the only family he had left. In an effort to exact revenge, Vaan hatches a plot to break into the palace and steal from the occupying imperials. There, he gets more than he bargained for as he runs into Princess Ashe, the sole surviving heir to the Dalmascan throne. Together, the two will embark on an incredible journey through Ivalice, tracing the mysteries behind the Archadian Empire’s invasion. The choices they make will determine the very fate of the world.

Features

- Completely new voiced cut-scenes added for the North American release

- Gorgeous CG cinematics and cut-scenes in Dolby® Pro Logic II combined with real-time graphics rivaling those of next-gen titles

- Shocking plot twists take players on an unforgettable journey

- Active Dimension Battle (ADB) system, enables players to move seamlessly between exploration and combat

- Highly customizable Gambit system allows complete control over character AI during battles

- License board gives the player the ability to customize each character’s skills and abilities

FINAL FANTASY XII has been rated T for Teen by the ESRB. For more information about the ESRB please visit: http://www.esrb.org. For the latest updates on FINAL FANTASY XII and the Collector’s Edition go to: http://www.square-enix.com/na/.

About Square Enix Co., Ltd. and Square Enix, Inc.

With headquarters in Tokyo, Japan, Square Enix Co., Ltd. (Square Enix) develops, publishes and distributes entertainment content including interactive entertainment software and publications in Japan, North America, Europe and Asia. Square Enix brings two of Japan's best-selling franchises - FINAL FANTASY, which has sold over 68 million units worldwide, and DRAGON QUEST®, which has sold over 40 million units worldwide - under one roof. Square Enix is one of the most influential providers of digital entertainment content in the world and continues to push the boundaries of creativity and innovation.

Square Enix, Inc., is a wholly owned subsidiary of Square Enix Co., Ltd. with offices in Los Angeles, California and Seattle, Washington. It handles operations in North America, including development, localization, marketing, and publishing of Square Enix titles. More information on Square Enix can be found on the Internet at http://www.square-enix.com.

About GameStop Corp.

Headquartered in Grapevine, TX, GameStop Corp. (NYSE:GME)(NYSE:GME.B) is the world's largest video game and entertainment software retailer. The company currently operates 4,566 retail stores across the United States and in fourteen countries worldwide. The company also owns two e-commerce sites, GameStop.com and EBgames.com, and Game Informer(R) magazine, a leading video and computer game publication. GameStop Corp. sells the most popular new software, hardware and game accessories for the PC and next generation video game systems from Sony, Nintendo, and Microsoft. In addition, the company sells computer and video game magazines and strategy guides, action figures, and other related merchandise. General information on GameStop Corp. can be obtained at the company's corporate website: http://www.gamestop.com/investor-relations/.

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 3:48 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

New York (June 29, 2006) – Maintaining industry supremacy by fusing cutting edge gaming technologies with current affairs, Kuma Reality Games announced today the release of Kuma\War’s 75th episode, “The Death of Zarqawi." Realistically simulating the bold strike that killed al-Queda leader Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, this latest mission transports players deep behind enemy lines in the middle-east conflict, allowing comprehensive access to the military strategies that brought down the most wanted man in Iraq. A captivating 3D video game re-creating the events surrounding the June 7th strike, “The Death of Zarqawi” is now in an open Beta period and is available for free public download at Kuma\War (www.kumagames.com).

Created within two weeks of the real-life bombing, this extraordinary episode allows gamers to join the U.S.-led coalition stationed just outside the house where al-Zarqawi is meeting with other insurgent leaders and choose between two strategies of attack: calling-in the real-life air strike that killed Zarqawi, or an alternate on-foot ambush which involves storming the guarded house and attempting to capture the terrorist leader alive.

“The strike on al-Zarqawi is one the most significant public events for the U.S coalition in the war in Iraq since the 2003 capture of Saddam Hussein,” said Keith Halper, CEO, Kuma Reality Games. “As a company committed to reporting on military conflicts in the virtual space, it was crucial that we create a Kuma\War episode based on the events surrounding al-Zarqawi’s death while it is still a relevant international hot topic.”

As with all Kuma\War episodes, “The Death of Zarqawi” will contain expert analysis and a thoughtful discussion of the political ramifications of military action as well as a playable 3D simulation, allowing ordinary individuals to choose how to resolve realistic military conflicts. Additionally, the game features a realistic digital recreation of Zarqawi himself.

For more than two years, Kuma\War has expanded the boundaries of news reporting through accurate and timely re-creations of real-world military events. As a broadband leader in episodic games, Kuma is committed to turning around missions for its audience in a matter of weeks. Kuma\War episodes are powered by Source – the same award-winning game engine technology Valve® created to power Half-Life® 2 – and are available for free download at www.kumagames.com.

KUMA, LLC., is the industry leader in the new market for Episodic Video Games -- rich, 3D, immersive game experiences delivered to PCs and consoles in weekly episodes. Using their pioneering technology, Kuma develops and delivers games with unprecedented speed, making game episodes that reflect just-released TV shows or films, real world events, audience input or players' own in-game actions. These episodic games are a thoroughly unique user experience and present distinct marketing advantages for content owners and distributors. Kuma Reality Games, headquartered in New York, New York, is a privately held company.

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 3:39 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

New York (June 27, 2006) – Grab some friends, start your micro engines and prepare for the craziest and most addictive multi-player mayhem ever as Codemasters ships the classic series MICRO MACHINES v4 video game to retail outlets nationwide.

The ultimate pick-up-and-play racing game MICRO MACHINES v4 brings its own brand of hilarious multiplayer madness to the most fiendish race tracks – right under your nose! On PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, Windows PC and the PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system with a Nintendo DS version to follow, MICRO MACHINES v4 is the fastest, most fun mini racer with hundreds of cars to collect, loads of levels to race and tons of people to play. The property is under license from the Hasbro Properties Group, the intellectual property development arm of Hasbro, Inc. (NYSE: HAS) and is developed by Supersonic Software, creators of some of the most acclaimed MICRO MACHINES games and more recently Mashed and Mashed: Fully Loaded.

Mixing miniature mayhem with maximum multiplayer racing, the MICRO MACHINES v4 game arrives packed with knockabout, breakneck racing in the fastest scale miniatures, complete with explosive weapon power-ups. Letting players loose with hundreds of vehicles, each with distinctive performance abilities, gamers will be racing their inch-long miniature motors on the wildest tracks where everyday household objects appear immense in size and can become lethal hazards.

Sport cars, street racers, stock cars, 4x4s, beach buggies, lowriders and muscle cars are just some of the MICRO MACHINES models gamers will be taking out on the improvised tracks around the MICRO MACHINES house, garden and – for the first time – beyond!

Fans of classic MICRO MACHINES games will rejoice in the return of some of the series’ most popular racing arenas. Spin out around the breakfast table littered with cereal spills, tear through the kitchen, turbo boost around the pool table (while avoiding the treacherous pockets), or hit the gas during the drive around the rim of the bath, carefully negotiating the ferocious waters pouring over the edge of the bath.

As well as the familiar feel-good environments, MICRO MACHINES v4 game sees the racing world expand further than any previous MICRO MACHINES game. Go beyond the house and garden tracks and discover what it’s like to race across house roofs, in the sewers, through supermarkets, museums and even down to the farm, with its danger-packed chicken coop!

Of course, it wouldn’t be MICRO MACHINES without an arsenal of power-ups and weapons to collect and use on the opponents while racing. The MICRO MACHINES v4 game brings all the favorites back, including – such as missiles and bombs – and provides new ones to attack with, including flamethrowers, heat-seeking missiles, plasma guns and, of course, the car-mounted giant hammer!

ABOUT CODEMASTERS
Codemasters is a leading developer and publisher of best-selling interactive entertainment products for a global audience on current and future gaming platforms and channels. Established in 1986, the company’s dominant brands include Colin McRae Rally, TOCA Race Driver, LMA Manager, Brian Lara Cricket and Operation Flashpoint. The company is headquartered in Southam, Warwickshire UK and maintains European operations in Germany, France, Spain, and Benelux. The company has its U.S. headquarters in New York. More information about the company and its products is available online at http://www.codemasters.com.

ABOUT HASBRO PROPERTIES GROUP
The Hasbro Properties Group (HPG), the intellectual property development arm of Hasbro, Inc., (NYSE:HAS), translates one of the industry’s richest portfolios of brands into a world of fun and excitement for children and adults globally. Through a host of publishing, digital media, lifestyle and entertainment platforms, HPG is able to surround fans worldwide with consumer products that expand Hasbro’s core brands, such as TRANSFORMERS, LITTLEST PET SHOP, MY LITTLE PONY, MONOPOLY, G.I. JOE, TONKA and PLAYSKOOL.

ABOUT HASBRO
Hasbro (NYSE: HAS) is a worldwide leader in children’s and family leisure time entertainment products and services, including the design, manufacture and marketing of games and toys ranging from traditional to high-tech. Both internationally and in the U.S., its PLAYSKOOL, TONKA, MILTON BRADLEY, PARKER BROTHERS, TIGER and WIZARDS OF THE COAST brands and products provide the highest quality and most recognizable play experiences in the world.

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 11:10 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

SANTA CLARA, Calif., (June 26, 2006) – Leading video games publisher and developer NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc. announced today that “NARUTO(TM): Ultimate Ninja(TM)” is now available in retail stores for the PlayStation(R)2 computer entertainment system. This intense fighting game is based on the hit anime series, SHONEN JUMP’s NARUTO, from VIZ Media airing on the Cartoon Network. Aspiring ninjas can now compete in fierce hand-to-hand combat or use deadly ranged weapons in order to become the greatest ninja of all. With multiple game modes, unique 2-D interactive stages and incredible multi-level super attacks, “NARUTO: Ultimate Ninja” provides an intense fighting experience that will test any gamer’s chakra.

“In the wake of the tremendous success of NARUTO manga, anime and merchandise in the U.S., ‘NARUTO: Ultimate Ninja’ is set to thrill fans and gamers alike for the first time on the PlayStation 2,” said Naruo Uchida, NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc.’s Product Group Director said. “‘NARUTO: Ultimate Ninja’ truly brings the exciting series to life with meticulously re-created characters engaged in fierce ninjutsu combat.”

“NARUTO: Ultimate Ninja” features blazing single and multiplayer ninja battles that bring the colorful series to life. Fans can play as their favorite characters including Naruto, Sasuke, Sakura, Rock Lee, Shikamaru, Kakashi and more, and can summon support characters for super attacks and special items. With fighting moves based on the animation series, a variety of ninja fighting techniques are at player’s disposal, including ranged weapon attacks and close combat moves. When the timing is right, players also have the ability to switch stages mid-combat, with 12 interactive stages based on the hit series available to choose from. “NARUTO: Ultimate Ninja’s” array of game modes allows players to follow their favorite character’s storyline, accomplish specific missions or battle it out against a friend. Secret characters, movies and other unlockable features further immerse fans in the ultimate NARUTO experience!

First introduced into the Weekly Shonen Jump Magazine in Japan in 1999, NARUTO -- by revered creator Masashi Kishimoto -- quickly became Japan’s most popular ninja manga. In 2000, NARUTO was expanded into a series of graphic novels with more than 65 million copies sold in total in Japan. NARUTO consistently ranks as one of the most popular titles serialized in VIZ Media’s SHONEN JUMP monthly manga anthology and one of the top graphic novel titles (also published by VIZ Media) in the United States. VIZ Media was named the Master Licensor in February 2005, obtaining the television, home video and merchandising rights to NARUTO for North America and Latin America.

Developed by CyberConnect 2, known for the .hack series, “NARUTO: Ultimate Ninja” is rated “T” for Teen by the ESRB.

For more information about “NARUTO: Ultimate Ninja,” please visit http://Naruto.namcobandaigames.com.

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 8:09 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

We know you all have been waiting to find out about QuakeCon 2006, and we want to thank you for your patience. We’ve had some unexpected issues locking in the dates and location, but don’t worry, we’re still bringing you another kick-ass QuakeCon event, and it’s already right around the corner - August 3 – 6 in Dallas, TX at the Hilton Anatole Hotel in their Trinity Exhibition Center.

With about 1,800 BYOC spots, QuakeCon 2006 will be a bit more exclusive than it has been the last couple of years, but we hope people will enjoy the more personal touch this year. QuakeCon 2006 will of course include all the great activities that it’s known for, including high-stakes tournaments, workshops, exhibitors, the BYOC Area, parties, and the public’s first chance to play Enemy Territory: Quake Wars.

First-come, first-served online registration for the BYOC area will kick off at 9 p.m. EST on Wednesday, June 28th, 2006, at www.quakecon.org.

To reserve a room for QuakeCon 2006, call the Hilton Anatole Hotel at 214-761-7500, or Hilton’s toll-free reservation number, 1-800-HILTONS. To receive our specially negotiated room rate of $125 (single, double, triple, or quad occupancy), and our special daily self-park rate of $5 (regularly $15 per day), you must request the group rate for “QuakeCon 2006” when making your reservations. The Hotel requires a $50 non-refundable deposit on group reservations, which will be credited to your final room bill upon check-out. Rooms at this rate are limited, so please don’t wait. Additional information regarding the Hilton Anatole Hotel is available at http://www.hilton.com.

*** The QuakeCon room rate is available starting Monday June 26th at 12 noon CST ***

It is important to note again that the only way to receive the special room rate of $125 and the $5 daily self-parking, is to call Hilton reservations at the numbers listed above and book your reservation under QuakeCon 2006.

We’ll have details about the event schedule and tournaments very soon. Thanks for being patient, and get ready for another great QuakeCon.

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 8:04 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Last night the Game On! team of Matt Sarrel and Tina Romero attended the Madden NFL 07 Party at the ESPN Zone in Times Square. It was a lot of fun and a great event. There was plenty of food and drink and lots of kiosks set up so everyone got a chance to play the game. There was great access to the football players. We had the opportunity to speak to each one. It was funny because there were also some little kids there from Newsday. One of these kids who was about the size of Orlando Pace's leg asked him to arm wrestle.

They had a panel discussion about the importance of the running game in Madden NFL 07. I noticed an improvement when I played the PS2 and Xbox 360 versions. The running game is like fighting for every inch, struggling to break tackles and lunging forward. In otherwords, the running game is more fun. But that's just my take on it. I recorded the panel discussion and you can listen to it.

Shaun Alexander (Seahawks), Larry Johnson (Chiefs), Carnell "Cadillac" Williams (Buccaneers), Reggie Bush (Saints), Curtis Martin (Jets), Orlando Pace (Rams), Warrick Dunn (Falcons), Steve Hutchinson (Vikings), Mac Strong (Seahawks), Marshall Faulk (Rams) and William Henderson (Packers) were there. We took a lot of photos of the players and of us talking to the players.

Here's a shot of me talking to Marshall Faulk. I asked him if he remembered meeting me. I knew he wouldn't so it was sort of a joke. I told him that I remember meeting him and playing Madden against him a few years ago. I think I said something about it being a highlight of my career.

Here's me talking to Eddie George, one of my football idols. The thing is that Old Timey Gamer and I played years of Madden as the Titans just so I could be Eddie George. I told him that I loved playing him in the game because he could just knock people down and run for an 80 yard touchdown and he said that's always a good feeling. I'm very happy that I got the chance to meet Eddie.

Tina got to meet Eddie George also.

This is me and Brian Neal. He and I both write for YRB Magazine. I was jealous because he said they gave him some T-shirts that say Yellow Rat Bastard on them.

This is Tina with Orlando Pace. My guess is that she's less than a third of his weight. He's a really big man.

This is me with Steve Hutchinson. We talked about whether he thought that offensive lineman get their fair share of the attention while we waited for our burgers to be grilled. He feels that it's not good when most of the attention that offensive linemen get is when they do something wrong, like miss a block or commit a penalty. I told him that that's the problem, that everyone takes offensive linemen for granted which means that they must be doing something right. Then his burgers were ready so I let him eat in peace.

This is Tina interviewing Vodka and Tonic as we take a break from the night's event.

And finally, here are some screenshots from the Xbox 360 version.

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 11:39 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

REDWOOD CITY, Calif., – June 23, 2006 – Crank it up, gamers! The football pre-season kicks off with a bang as Electronic Arts (NASDAQ: ERTS) reveals the 35 songs that will be featured in Madden NFL 07, becoming the de facto soundtrack of the 2007 football season. The bone-crunching action and heart-pounding adrenaline of the grid iron is intensified by the game’s one-of-a-kind mix of rock and hip hop.

“Year after year, the music selected for inclusion in EA’s smash hit football series invariably becomes the soundtrack of the football season, moving beyond the game to turn up in football stadiums and on live TV broadcasts,” said Steve Schnur, Worldwide Executive of Music and Music Marketing at EA. “The Madden NFL Football franchise is recognized across North America as a driving force behind break-out bands… this year EA does it again.”

Players step onto the field in Madden NFL 07 with the thundering roar of the crowd in the background and the air filled with pounding rock anthems and energizing hip hop beats. Dr. Dre’s protégé who first appeared in NBA LIVE 06 and NFL STREET 2, Bishop LaMont now makes an appearance on Madden NFL 07 with a track featuring Chevy Jones, while Lupe Fiasco is on deck with Jonah Matranga. These hot tracks are included alongside new releases from fan favorites AFI, Audioslave, Dashboard Confessional and Taking Back Sunday. Also this year, game fans will be spellbound by new music debuts from Jared Leto’s 30 Seconds to Mars, Dave Navarro’s band The Panic Channel, and Rise Against whose sophomore record is anticipated to be one of the biggest rock albums of the year.

Again this year, the hip hop production team Da Riffs remixed nearly a dozen original NFL FILMS music pieces will be showcased throughout the menus and in gameplay.

The complete in-game soundtrack for Madden NFL 07 includes:

ARTIST

SONG

30 Seconds To Mars

Battle Of One

AFI

Summer Shudder

Al Fatz

Came Down

Anti-Flag

This Is The End (For You My Friend)

Atreyu

Ex’s And Oh’s

Audioslave **

Revelations

Bishop LaMont feat. Chevy Jones **

The Best

Cartel

Say Anything (Else)

Cord **

Go Either Way

Damone

Out Here All Night

Dashboard Confessional

Reason To Believe

Dynamite MC **

Bounce

Feezy 350

Playa What

Glasses Malone **

Right Now

Hit The Lights

Until We Get Caught

Keane

Is It Any Wonder?

Less Than Jake

Still Life Franchise

Lupe Fiasco feat. Jonah Matranga

The Instrumental

Matchbook Romance

Monsters

Omnisoul **

Not Giving Up

Rise Against

Drones

Riverboat Gamblers

On Again Off Again

Saves The Day

Head For The Hills

Shorty Da Kid **

Get Loose

Spank Rock

Backyard Betty

Sparta **

Future Needs

Taking Back Sunday

Spin

The Panic Channel**

Teahouse Of The Spirits

The Pink Spiders

Easy Way Out

The Rapture**

WAYUH

The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus

In Fates Hands

The Sleeping

Don’t Hold Back

Trae

Real Talk

Underoath

Ever So Inviting

Wolfmother

Woman

** Indicates song will debut in Madden NFL 07 before being released to retail

Coming into its 17th year and with more than 51 million copies sold, Madden NFL Football continues to stand out as the most popular football videogame franchise of all time with a combination of innovative new features and the most authentic football gameplay. Developed in Orlando, FL by EA Tiburon Madden NFL 07 will be available in August on Xbox 360™ videogame and entertainment system, the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, the Xbox® video game system from Microsoft, Nintendo GameCube™, Nintendo DS™, PC, PSP™ (PlayStation®Portable) handheld entertainment system and Game Boy® Advance. For more information check out www.madden07.com.

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 5:14 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Starting today, Xbox Live gamers in North America can download free high-definition “Superman Returns” trailers and TV spots from the first and only unified online games and entertainment network, courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures.

Opening in U.S. theaters on June 28, Warner Bros. Pictures presents “Superman Returns” a soaring new chapter in the saga of one of the world’s best loved super heroes, starring Brandon Routh, Kate Bosworth and Kevin Spacey.

The collection of free, digitally downloadable “Superman Returns” content on Xbox Live Marketplace includes two high-definition trailers and four TV spots for the movie as well as five of Director Bryan Singer’s video journals from the set of the film.

For further details, please visit www.xbox.com.

About Xbox Live

Xbox Live is the first and only unified online entertainment network seamlessly integrated throughout the entire console experience, making it easy for people to find the friends, games and entertainment they want from the moment they power on their Xbox 360 system. Xbox Live connects millions of members across 24 countries to enjoy hundreds of multiplayer games, downloadable games via Xbox Live Arcade, free and premium playable game demos, music videos, and movie trailers, as well as new game levels, characters and vehicles for all their favorite retail games. More information can be found online at http://www.xbox.com/en-us/live.

About Superman Returns

Following a mysterious absence of several years, the Man of Steel comes back to Earth in the epic action-adventure Superman Returns, a soaring new chapter in the saga of one of the world’s most beloved superheroes. While an old enemy plots to render him powerless once and for all, Superman (Brandon Routh) faces the heartbreaking realization that the woman he loves, Lois Lane (Kate Bosworth), has moved on with her life. Or has she? Superman’s bittersweet return challenges him to bridge the distance between them while finding a place in a society that has learned to survive without him. In an attempt to protect the world he loves from cataclysmic destruction, Superman embarks on an epic journey of redemption that takes him from the depths of the ocean to the far reaches of outer space.

About Superman Returns

Warner Bros. Pictures, in association with Legendary Pictures, presents a Jon Peters Production in association with Bad Hat Harry Productions, a Bryan Singer film, Superman Returns, starring newcomer Brandon Routh, Kate Bosworth (Beyond the Sea, Blue Crush), James Marsden (X2: X-Men United, The Notebook), Frank Langella (HBO’s Unscripted), Academy Award-winner Eva Marie Saint (North By Northwest), Parker Posey (Best in Show), Kal Penn (Harold & Kumar Go to White Castle) Sam Huntington (Detroit Rock City), and Oscar-winner Kevin Spacey (Beyond the Sea, American Beauty, The Usual Suspects). Directed by Bryan Singer (X2: X-Men United, X-Men, The Usual Suspects), the film is produced by Jon Peters, Bryan Singer and Gilbert Adler. The executive producer is Chris Lee. The screenplay is by Michael Dougherty & Dan Harris, and the story is by Bryan Singer & Michael Dougherty & Dan Harris. The director of photography is Newton Thomas Sigel A.S.C.; the production designer is Guy Dyas; the film is edited by John Ottman and Elliot Graham; the costume designer is Louise Mingenbach; and the music is by John Ottman. The film is based upon Superman characters created by Jerry Siegel & Joe Shuster and published by DC Comics.

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 5:12 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Redwood City, Calif. – June 22, 2006 – Electronic Arts (NASDAQ: ERTS) announced today that Need for Speed™ Carbon is in development and will hit the streets this November. Developed by EA Black Box in Vancouver, British Columbia, Need for Speed Carbon delivers the next generation of adrenaline-filled street racing and will challenge players to face the ultimate test of driving skill on treacherous canyon roads.

“We pride ourselves on our ability to reinvent the franchise and continually uncover new and exciting trends in car culture. Canyon Racing is a real test of a driver’s skill and we think it provides a fantastic game play opportunity to lean into,” said Larry LaPierre, the game's executive producer.

What starts in the city is settled in the canyons as Need for Speed Carbon immerses you into the world’s most dangerous and adrenaline-filled form of street racing. You and your crew must race in an all-out war for the city, risking everything to take over your rivals’ neighborhoods one block at a time. As the police turn up the heat, the battle ultimately shifts to Carbon Canyon, where territories and reputations can be lost on every perilous curve. Need for Speed Carbon delivers the next generation of customization giving you the power to design and tweak your crew’s cars in every way using the ground-breaking new Autosculpt™ technology. Represent your car class, your crew, and your turf in Need for Speed Carbon, the next revolution in racing games.

Need for Speed Carbon will be available for Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system, PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system, and Wii™ as well as the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, Xbox® videogame system from Microsoft, Nintendo GameCube™, Nintendo DS™, Game Boy® Advance, PSP™ (PlayStation Portable) handheld entertainment system, PC and mobile. More information can be found at www.needforspeed.com.

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 3:05 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

After just 35 days on store shelves, New Super Mario Bros.(R) for Nintendo DS(TM) has racked up sales in excess of one half million in the United States alone. That's a sell-through rate of more than 20 every minutes since the game went on sale May 15.
New Super Mario Bros. marks a new adventure for Mario(TM), the most popular video game character in history. The classic feel of the game attracts newcomers and old-school fans alike, and the gaming press has universally praised New Super Mario Bros. as a near-perfect video game. IGN.com raves: " ... it absolutely is something special. This game marks a brilliant return to Mario's side-scrolling environments, with a look, feel and play that feels unbelievably classic, with new elements that do a fantastic job advancing the design."

For more information about New Super Mario Bros., please visit mario.nintendo.com. For more information about Nintendo DS Lite, please visit www.nintendods.com

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 3:02 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

New York (June 23, 2006) – Savvy gamers can be the first to take Micro Machines v4 for a test drive and experience its incredible mix of miniature mayhem and maximum multiplayer racing with the PC playable demo, available now www.codemasters.com/micromachines.

Micro Machines v4 brings back the series’ much-loved breakneck micro racing gameplay in all its glory. The title is set to ship on June 27th for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, the PSP system and PC with a Nintendo DS edition to follow.

The PC demo lets up to four players duke it out on three outrageous tracks; around the kitchen, on the rooftops and inside the chicken coop. Players can get in some single-player practice as well with Quick Battle races against AI opponents.

The Kitchen Capers track has players belting around the kitchen counters, racing over scorching stovetops and leaping from the countertops to an ironing board. Players should beware the soapy lake that is the kitchen sink and use the floating sponge as an improvised raft to avoid a watery grave.

Then it’s outside to the chicken coop in the Pecking Peril race, which holds the horrors of seemingly giant chickens that try to peck the wheels off the tiny racers. Get past them and there are still their boulder-like eggs to dodge as they come tumbling like a landslide.

Finally, roar around the roof in Rooftop Rumble, racing down drainpipes and catching the updraft from an air vent. Collect weapon power-ups and let loose a fury with machine guns, missiles, electric-shockers and more!

Be first off the starting grid and download the new PC demo and check the latest videos, available now at www.codemasters.com/micromachines.

The MICRO MACHINES property is under license from the Hasbro Properties Group, the intellectual property development arm of Hasbro, Inc. (NYSE: HAS).

ABOUT MICRO MACHINES V4
Mixing miniature mayhem with maximum multiplayer racing, Micro Machines v4 comes packed with knockabout, breakneck racing in the fastest scale miniatures, complete with explosive weapon power-ups. Letting players loose with hundreds of vehicles, each with distinctive performance abilities, players will race inch-long miniature motors on the wildest tracks where everyday household objects appear immense in size and can become lethal hazards.

There’s an arsenal of power-ups and weapons to collect and use on opponents while racing. Micro Machines v4 brings all the favorites back – such as missiles and bombs – and provides new ones to attack with, including flamethrowers, heat-seeking missiles, plasma guns and, of course, the car-mounted giant hammer!

* Engage in madcap competition racing with your micro motors on the wildest tracks around your house, garden and beyond...
* Spin out on the breakfast table, turbo boost across the pool table or hit the gas as you race around the rim of the bath.
* Use your arsenal of power ups to blast your opponents with the flamethrower or heat-seeking homing missiles to throw them off course.
* Hundreds of tiny turbo cars to collect or trade. Or, up the stakes when you play for keeps with ‘pink slip racing’.
* Unlock bonus tracks with PSP system to PlayStation 2 connectivity.
* PSP system & DS Wireless capability for up to 4-players, PC online multiplay and LAN.
* Unlockable multiplayer and single player content.
* Earn credits to unlock tracks and cars then trade with your friends.
* Track editor choose your own route through the garden or science lab… then challenge your friends to do battle!

ABOUT CODEMASTERS
Codemasters is a leading developer and publisher of best-selling interactive entertainment products for a global audience on current and future gaming platforms and channels. Established in 1986, the company’s dominant brands include Colin McRae Rally, TOCA Race Driver, LMA Manager, Brian Lara Cricket and Operation Flashpoint. The company is headquartered in Southam, Warwickshire UK and maintains European operations in Germany, France, Spain, and Benelux. The company has its U.S. headquarters in New York. More information about the company and its products is available online at http://www.codemasters.com.

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 2:59 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

I met with a number of companies yesterday to talk about casual games. For those of you who don't know what a casual game is, it's a game that is easy to learn and doesn't require complex skills to operate. Web games and mobile phone games usually fit into this category. According to DFC Intelligence, the worldwide casual games market is valued at $205 million today and will surpass $13 billion by 2011.

Boonty - They aggregate and serve casual games, usually with a free version that doesn't have all the levels or times out. Then you have to buy it to keep playing it. A lot of their games are web playable which means from deciding to play to playing there's no delay. Go to www.boonty.com for tons of casual games.

PlayFirst - They've seen an enormous growth in non-hardcore or casual gaming. The audience is broadening for 35 year old women. The average casual gamer is a different person from the average hardcore games. Many of these games have a woman as the protagonist. Developers target women and people over 35 who want to take a break at work or after the kids go to bed. There's no killing and no babes in bikinis. These are easy to learn games that provide an escape. They've seen 90% year over year growth. One of their games is Connect Four Cities, where you play Connect Four using buildings. And yes, you can give the gift of game on their site.

Glu - They're the #2 publisher of mobile games. Holiday titles include ATV Offroad Fury (8 different tracks), World Series of Poker, and Deer Hunter 2 (five weapons and persistent environments). In July they've got Super KO Boxing which is a cartonny boxing game like Super Punch for NES. They also offer Fox Sports Mobile Pro for $5.99 per month. It's a shell that gets filled with sports news. You can also follow your favorite team while they're on the field with live play by play.

Yahoo! Games - They are the largest casual gaming site with 20 million visitors per month. They have easy ways to connect with friends and family. They have tournaments. And they have Messenger integration. They are always searching for new fresh games. Right now they're trying to understand who comes to their site so they can target games at specific users based on what they're played before. They're adding integration with the Yahoo! communities. One cool game they have is a Flash based multiplayer chess. Mobile users can play against web users if they want so your matches are easier to coordinate.

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 2:38 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Redwood City, Calif. – Thursday, June 22, 2006 – Washington Capitals rookie phenom Alexander Ovechkin has signed with Electronic Arts (NASDAQ: ERTS) to be the cover athlete and spokesman for its EA SPORTS™ branded NHL® 07 game. Drafted first overall in the 2004 NHL Entry Draft, Ovechkin lived up to his potential and put forth the third most prolific rookie campaign in NHL history. Exceeding his freshman status, Ovechkin made his presence known by finishing the season third overall in the League for points (106), tied for third in goals (52), and first in shots (425).

“To me, I feel like your accomplishments have been recognized when you make the cover of a videogame," said Ovechkin. “I have been playing EA SPORTS games for years and am honored to be a part of the NHL® 07 team.”

Ovechkin exploded onto the scene in the 2005-06 season, playing with a level of intensity, passion, and talent that is causing many to label him the new face of the NHL. At the age of 20, he has already won the Valery Kharlamov Trophy as the best Russian player in the NHL and is a finalist for the Calder Memorial Trophy for outstanding rookie. More telling of his reputation around the League is his nomination for the Lester B. Pearson Award, an honor bestowed upon the outstanding player as voted by his peers in the NHL Players’ Association.

The golden age of console hockey will return when NHL 07 debuts with gameplay innovations that will allow players to feel like they are actually on the ice. Featuring an unmatched level of freedom and control, NHL 07 will represent a watershed moment in the history of the console hockey when it ships throughout Canada and the United States in September 2006. Hockey purists and casual fans alike will feel like they can play like a pro when they pick up NHL 07.

The EA SPORTS™ NHL franchise is the #1 selling hockey game* and is now entering its 16th year of licensing relationships with the NHL and the NHLPA. EA and the NHL and the NHLPA announced earlier this week that they had further renewed their longstanding relationship through to 2012. NHL 07 is being developed under the EA SPORTS™ brand by talented teams located in two of Canada’s frenzied hockey hotbeds: EA Montreal and EA Canada in Vancouver, B.C. The game will be available for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, the PSP™ (Playstation®Portable) handheld entertainment system, Xbox 360™ video game system from Microsoft, Xbox® video game system from Microsoft and PC. For more information, log onto www.nhl07.com.

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 3:26 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Leading video games developer and publisher NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc. today announced that the official Web site for its upcoming RPG strategy game for the PC, Mage Knight: Apocalypse is now live at www.mkapocalypse.com. This site features character bios, storyline details, original concept art, screenshots from the game and an official forum where visitors can discuss their favorite strategies with fellow Mage Knight: Apocalypse fans.

Set in the heart of the Mage Knight universe, five warriors are sworn by an oath to seek out the heart of evil plaguing the land and stop it no matter what the cost. Guided by the magical and mysterious race known as the Solonavi, these brave guardians embark on an epic journey to rescue their world from the clutches of an evil army determined to bring about the Apocalypse. As the forces of Chaos rise, a creature of unimaginable strength and destructive power is born to lead the enemy: the Apocalypse Dragon, a seemingly unstoppable five-headed monstrosity. In order to face this threat, the guardians must rally support from all of the factions of the land and recruit fearless heroes to fight for their cause. The future rests on the shoulders of these noble adventurers and the battle to end all battles is about to begin.

Mage Knight: Apocalypse will be available in stores in Fall 2006 for the PC.

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 3:22 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Desperate Housewives - Think of this game as a fresh new season to play with 12 new episodes. The central question is "should you be bitchy or should you be nice?" as you manage your character and your home life. The game starts off and you're a new housewife on Wisteria Lane. You create your character and choose your husband. The game has the feel of The Sims but with more intrigue and manipulation. It seems well written. They're working with a writer from the show. You've got a composure meter that you need to maintain so you can play with the big girls. There are a series of mini-games also, such as cooking, gardening, sneaking around and spying. Unlock your dark past in this narrative driven adventure sim. This is PC only and ships in October 2006.

Every Extend Extra - This PSP game from Q Entertainment ships in November 2006. As with most Q Entertainment games, the music is interactive with the game play. This is very much like Rez, where you target a bunch of objects and hold down the button; when you let go everything explodes. The music sort of keeps time with the action. You can detach the target quickly to go get crystals and to greate chain reactions. The name, "Every Extend Extra" refers to the fact that the better you are at the game the longer it lasts.

Lumines II - This is another PSP title from Q Entertainment that will ship holiday 2006. It's got a 3D background and is basically the same puzzle game as Lumines. The 3D background is very cool because they can stream audio and video while you're playing. That means that they could show a music video in the background while you're working with puzzle pieces. The point is to get 4 cubes of the same color to form a square and then it disappears. After you unlock the levels you can play them in whichever order you want so it won't get repetitive. There's a dual mode where you can compete against your friends.

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 8:56 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

NEW YORK - June 22, 2006 - 2K Sports, a publishing label of Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. (NASDAQ: TTWO), announced today that NHL All-Star center Joe Thornton of the San Jose Sharks is the official spokesman and cover athlete for NHL 2K7. The 2005-06 NHL assist and points leader was the catalyst behind the San Jose Sharks' 2006 Stanley Cup Playoffs run, and has established himself as one of the best centers in the NHL.

The overall first pick of the 1997 NHL Entry Draft, Thornton has achieved many awards in his successful career. Named an NHL All-Star three consecutive times, Thornton has been a valuable member of Team Canada in international play, winning a gold medal for Team Canada in the 2004 World Cup, and was named MVP in the 2005 World Championship. In his first year at San Jose, he helped lead the Sharks into the 2006 NHL Playoffs with his diligent work ethic, exceptional passing, and unselfish play. He is the 2006 recipient of the Art Ross Trophy, awarded to the League's leader in points at the end of the regular season, as well as a nominee for this year's Hart Memorial Trophy as the League MVP and the Lester B. Pearson Award.

"We're very proud to have Joe Thornton represent NHL 2K7," stated Erik Whiteford, vice president of marketing, 2K Sports. "Joe had an amazing season and it was through his leadership, team-first philosophy, and winning attitude that make him the ideal athlete to be the face of our finest NHL 2K title to date."

"It's a great distinction to have been selected as the cover athlete for NHL 2K7," said Thornton. "The NHL 2K series has been recognized as the top rated and premiere NHL video game for several years and to be associated with such a great product is truly an honor."

Available in Fall 2006 for the Xbox 360(TM) and Xbox(R) video game and entertainment systems from Microsoft, PlayStation(R)3 computer entertainment system and PlayStation(R)2 computer entertainment system, NHL 2K7 features completely new and unique skating animations and delivers a fresh look and impeccable feel to each on-ice stride. NHL 2K7 also debuts a unique approach to viewing and experiencing virtual hockey with new dynamic cameras and an innovative presentation system that will immerse players into the intense drama of each hockey game. 2K Sports expects NHL 2K7 to continue the tradition as the best rated hockey game on any system.

For more information, log onto http://www.2ksports.com

About Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc.

Headquartered in New York City, Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. is an integrated global developer, marketer, distributor and publisher of interactive entertainment software games and accessories for the PC, PlayStation(R) game console, PlayStation(R)2 computer entertainment system, PSP(TM) (PlayStation(R)Portable) system, Xbox(R) and Xbox 360(TM) video game and entertainment systems from Microsoft, Nintendo GameCube(TM), Nintendo DS(TM) and Game Boy(R) Advance. The Company publishes and develops products through its wholly owned labels Rockstar Games, 2K and 2K Sports, and Global Star Software; and distributes products in North America through its Jack of All Games subsidiary. Take-Two also manufactures and markets video game accessories in Europe, North America and the Asia Pacific region through its Joytech subsidiary. The Company maintains sales and marketing offices in Cincinnati, New York, Toronto, London, Paris, Munich, Madrid, Milan, Sydney, Breda (Netherlands), Auckland, Shanghai and Tokyo. Take-Two's common stock is publicly traded on NASDAQ under the symbol TTWO. For more corporate and product information please visit our website at www.take2games.com.

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 8:50 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Toronto, June 21, 2006 – DreamCatcher Games today announced that it will publish First Battalion for Windows® in North America.

Join the ranks as you take command of the First Battalion and lead your forces into one of the most intense and important wars in history! From the streets of Stalingrad to the beaches of Normandy you will experience some of the greatest battles of World War II.

Feel the power of 30 tons of steel armor around you as you crush through destructible environments, mowing down trees and destroying entire buildings. With its cinematic and immersive gameplay, First Battalion puts you right on the battlefield filled with dozens of AI controlled airplanes, anti-tank cannons, infantry and enemy vehicles.

Features

· Experience the adrenaline rush of combat with totally destructible environments keeping you in the heat of battle at all times!

· Play as 3 military commanders as you lead your battalions through exciting missions and fast-paced campaigns.

· Historic tanks, vehicles and aircrafts are all accurately modeled and detailed.

· Multiplayer mode for up to 32 players allows for complex team strategies utilizing different battalion tactics.

Take this exciting opportunity to control a battalion during World War II where you will fight against rival tanks, vehicles, infantry and aircraft. First Battalion combines some of the best elements from first-person shooters, role-playing and strategy games, providing gamers with a unique and exciting WWII gaming experience that they won’t soon forget!

First Battalion will hit stores in July 2006 with an ESRB Rating of “T” for Teen.

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 8:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

REDWOOD CITY, Calif. – Wednesday, June 21, 2005 – Electronic Arts (Nasdaq: ERTS) announced today that Tracy McGrady, one of the most explosive and electrifying athletes over his nine-year NBA career, has been selected the new face of NBA LIVE 07, scheduled for release this fall under the EA SPORTS™ brand.

The Houston Rockets forward joins an exclusive list of NBA players to be selected to the cover of the best-selling EA SPORTS basketball franchise*. McGrady will serve as spokesperson and will be the center-piece of NBA LIVE 07 advertising, marketing and packaging in North America and several other countries around the world.

A two-time NBA scoring champion and six-time NBA All-Star, McGrady embodies athleticism and masterful skill, characteristics that the best-selling NBA LIVE 07 videogame brings to life. McGrady led the league in scoring by averaging 32.1 points per game in 2003, when he became the youngest NBA player to average 30-plus points per game since Bob McAdoo in 1974-75, and has remained one of the game’s most popular and entertaining players. McGrady finished 12th in NBA scoring (24.4 ppg) this year and averaged 6.5 rebounds and 4.8 assists. It was the sixth time in his career he has scored more than 24 points a game.

“I’ve always looked upon the EA SPORTS athletes as fan favorites so I’m honored to be named this year’s NBA LIVE 07 cover athlete and join the EA SPORTS family,” said McGrady. “Each year there is tremendous anticipation around the league as players wait to see themselves in NBA LIVE and I feel like this year my virtual self plays more like me than ever before. This is as close to playing in the NBA as you get.”

McGrady joins an exclusive list of superstar athletes previously featured on the cover of the best-selling NBA LIVE franchise, including Dwyane Wade of the Miami Heat (2006), Carmelo Anthony (2005), Vince Carter (2004), and Jason Kidd (2003).

This year NBA LIVE 07 will play as good as it looks with gameplay advancements that build upon the depth and authenticity that the NBA LIVE franchise has delivered for more than a decade. Powered by next generation technology that EA showcased at Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3), NBA LIVE 07 will introduce the next generation of basketball gameplay with EA SPORTS™ Total Freestyle Control, a new feature that gives users more control over athletes than they ever imagined. By introducing a ground-breaking next generation AI system that is both intuitive and intelligent, combined with advancements to fan-favorite features like All-Star Weekend and Dynasty Mode™, NBA LIVE 07 will continue to deliver its award-winning gameplay experience to fans worldwide.

This year NBA LIVE 07 will partner with the worldwide leader in sports to deliver more ESPN content in-game while you play than ever before. The most advanced ESPN integration package with never-before-seen features will be available only through NBA LIVE 07.

The official NBA LIVE 07 website will host news and information on this year’s game, behind the scenes looks at the TV commercial shoots and the making of the game, as well as contests, videos, screenshots and pod casts with some of the top 2006 NBA Draft picks. Go to www.nbalive07.com for the latest news and features for NBA LIVE 07.

Developed in Vancouver, B.C., by EA Canada, the studio which is also home to the popular NBA STREET and NCAA® March Madness® franchises, NBA LIVE 07 will be available on the Xbox 360™ and Xbox® video game systems from Microsoft, the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, PSP™ (PlayStation®Portable) system, and PC.

NBA LIVE Cover Athletes – North America
NBA LIVE 07 - Tracy McGrady, Houston Rockets
NBA LIVE 06 - Dwyane Wade, Miami Heat
NBA LIVE 2005 - Carmelo Anthony, Denver Nuggets
NBA LIVE 2004 - Vince Carter, Toronto Raptors
NBA LIVE 2003 - Jason Kidd, New Jersey Nets
NBA LIVE 2002 - Steve Francis, Houston Rockets
NBA LIVE 2001 - Kevin Garnett, Minnesota Timberwolves
NBA LIVE 2000 - Tim Duncan, San Antonio Spurs
NBA LIVE 1999 - Antoine Walker, Boston Celtics
NBA LIVE 1998 - Tim Hardaway, Miami Heat
NBA LIVE 1997 - Mitch Richmond, Sacramento Kings
NBA LIVE 1996 - Shaquille O'Neal, Orlando Magic
NBA LIVE 1995 - New York Knicks vs Houston Rockets


* Based on total franchise sales according to NPD Data.

About Electronic Arts

Electronic Arts Inc. (EA), headquartered in Redwood City, California, is the world's leading interactive entertainment software company. Founded in 1982, the company develops, publishes, and distributes interactive software worldwide for videogame systems, personal computers and the Internet. Electronic Arts markets its products under four brand names: EA SPORTSTM, EATM, EA SPORTS BIGTM and POGOTM. In fiscal 2006, EA posted revenue of $2.95 billion and had 27 titles that sold more than one million copies. EA's homepage and online game site is www.ea.com.

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 8:19 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Lara is portable! The all-new adventure Lara Croft Tomb Raider: Legend for PSP is in stores today throughout North America, which marks the triumphant return of the world’s most beloved gaming heroine as she sets off to raid the most deadly tombs throughout the world! Lara Croft looks better than ever, and brings PSP gamers into the striking and adventure-filled world of Lara Croft. The new single-player Tomb Raider game includes three exclusive multi-player modes and a series of unique bonus features. The new features include PSP-only soundtrack pieces, 3D wallpapers, image galleries, and Lara skins! The three unique-to-PSP multiplayer gameplay modes offer an exciting challenge to those looking for gaming of all kinds - intense multiplayer racing, fast-paced head-to-head treasure hunts and extreme obstacle courses. Head on over to your local store now, and grab your copy before it sells out!

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 8:17 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

REDWOOD CITY, Calif. – June 21, 2006 – Electronic Arts (NASDAQ: ERTS) brings to life the triumphs and travails of one of sports’ most gut wrenching jobs with NFL Head Coach¸ a new franchise from the EA SPORTS™ brand. The first 3-D sports strategy game, NFL Head Coach, is now in stores and challenges gamers to manage every aspect of a professional football team and build their franchise from the ground up into a perennial powerhouse as you try to become the greatest coach of all time.

You can manage every detail of a head coach’s job by calling the plays from the sidelines, conducting practice, scouting players and making draft day deals to land the league’s next superstar in detailed, interactive environments. In NFL Head Coach, it is your responsibility to make the right decisions, hire the best people and develop a game plan that will catch the opposition off guard. Find impact players and upgrade your roster via the draft, free agency and trades.

“NFL Head Coach is a completely unique football experience unlike any other football game EA SPORTS has ever created," said Todd Sitrin, vice president of marketing, EA Tiburon, the studio famous for making the top-rated football games Madden NFL and NCAA Football. “Now the focus is on the six days leading up to game day and the strategy behind every coaching decision made. This is the game to decide if you really have what it takes to turn your team into a champion.”

NFL Head Coach includes voice-activated game play so you can use headsets to call plays on game day and receive audio play recommendations from coordinators. Steve Sabol, president of NFL Films, hosts scripted sequences as coaching career milestones are reached. The game also features ESPN integration with Mel Kiper Jr. and Trey Wingo.

Developed by EA Tiburon in Orlando, Fla. where Madden NFL Football, NCAA® Football, NASCAR® and Superman Returns™: The Videogame are developed, NFL Head Coach is available on PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, Xbox® videogame system from Microsoft and PC for $39.99 and is rated E by the ESRB. For more information log on to www.nflheadcoach.com.

About Electronic Arts

Electronic Arts Inc. (EA), headquartered in Redwood City, California, is the world's leading interactive entertainment software company. Founded in 1982, the company develops, publishes, and distributes interactive software worldwide for videogame systems, personal computers and the Internet. Electronic Arts markets its products under four brand names: EA SPORTS™, EA™, EA SPORTS BIG™ and POGO™. In fiscal 2006, EA posted revenue of $2.95 billion and had 27 titles that sold more than one million copies. EA's homepage and online game site is www.ea.com. More information about EA's products and full text of press releases can be found on the Internet at http://info.ea.com.

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 8:14 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

New York (June 21st, 2006) – Codemasters has released the first gameplay trailer from the futuristic real-time strategy action PC epic, Maelstrom. This exciting new trailer presents a war-torn future earth and introduces gamers to a dangerous battleground, an ecologically ravaged planet earth crawling with morphing military tech and organic alien weapons. The trailer can be found on the new Maelstrom microsite www.codemasters.com/maelstrom.

Maelstrom’s dedicated microsite is now the online destination to register for exclusive game information feeds, to grab the latest screenshots or join the Underground and talk tactics in the forums. As the site evolves, gamers will discover the hidden depths of the game’s three factions: the guerrilla freedom-fighting Remnants, the technologically advanced Ascension with their transforming robotic tech, and a mysterious alien race, the Hai-Genti, who have their own plans for the future of the planet.

With the characters, setting and pace of science-fiction Hollywood blockbuster wrapped in a top rate script from screenwriter James Swallow (Star Trek: Voyager, Doctor Who), Maelstrom is set to be the most frantic and destructive RTS gaming experience yet. Battling to control the future of the entire planet, gamers take command from different viewpoints and employ faction-specific tactics and weaponry – from terraforming the land to harnessing the very forces of nature itself.

Promising an explosive and varied mix of action-packed strategic missions set in totally destructible environments, Codemasters will publish Maelstrom in late September, exclusively for PC. Discover more about the future of planet Earth and the future of RTS gaming with the first Maelstrom gameplay trailer movie and more at the game’s new microsite, now live at www.codemasters.com/maelstrom.

About Maelstrom
Coming late September, exclusively for PC, Maelstrom is an action strategy title where Hollywood sci-fi meets groundbreaking RTS gameplay. Maelstrom is the fiercely original result of a collaboration between Codemasters, the award-winning Russian development team KDV Games (Perimeter), US creative studio Massive Black, Inc., and Star Trek writer James Swallow. Set against the violent ecological meltdown of Earth, Its all-out destructive war as you battle for control of the entire planet against fearless aliens, an army of high-tech super soldiers and a rag tag crew of human survivors. Complete with the ability to terraform landscapes and transform units, Maelstrom will provide strategy gamers with the power to harness the forces of nature in the most frantic, destructive, action-packed RTS game yet. Maelstrom is played from the classic RTS vantage point, but unlike traditional titles, the game’s unparalleled level of detail will enable you to get in close and annihilate your enemies from a third person perspective. Six-player multiplayer takes the action to the next level.

About Codemasters
Codemasters is a global interactive entertainment company with offices in the U.S., England, France, Spain, Holland and Germany. Founded in the UK in 1986, Codemasters develops and publishes award-winning software for the PC, current and future-generation video game consoles and online gaming platforms. Codemasters’ dominant gaming brands include ToCA Race Driver, Colin McRae Rally, Operation Flashpoint, Micro Machines v4 and the company is currently developing and introducing original gaming properties for next-generation systems. Additional information about Codemasters and its products can be found at www.codemasters.com.

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 8:05 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Watching your favorite TV shows on the go just got easier now that PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) users can transfer content from a TiVo digital video recorder to a PSP system. After announcing an initial test in November, TiVo has made transfers to a PSP system available to all TiVo® Series2 subscribers via an updated TiVoToGo feature.

PSP® users can now benefit from the convenience of TiVoToGo to catch up on sports, sitcoms, and other TV programming wherever, whenever they want. With the PSP systems 4.3-inch widescreen, high-resolution TFT display, portable TV has never looked so good. The PSP system’s display technology is capable of delivering 16.8 million colors on a brilliant LCD screen.

The enhanced TiVoToGo offers automatic transfers and conversions so TV programs recorded the night before can be synced and waiting for you on your PSP system the next morning.

How it works
TiVoToGo requires a TiVo Series2 box connected to a Windows PC or laptop through a home network. To convert recorded content for viewing on a PSP system, TiVo offers an upgraded version of its TiVo Desktop software for $24.95. The software provides unlimited conversions and an easy, step-by-step process for transferring TV programs from a TiVo to a PC, and then syncing with a connected PSP system. Additional details can be found at www.tivo.com/togo.

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 8:01 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

SAN JOSE, Calif. (June 19, 2006) – Namco Networks, a leading publisher and developer of wireless games and content, today announced the appointment of Jason Ford as vice president of strategy and planning.

In this new position, Ford is responsible for strategic planning related to future products, technologies and distribution channels in existing and new markets.

“As the mobile game industry experiences rapid growth and advances in technology, there is unlimited potential for mobile entertainment,” said Kenji Hisatsune, President and CEO of Namco Networks. “As Namco Networks reaches new levels of maturity as a leading provider of quality, unique and fun mobile entertainment, Jason will keep a keen eye on our strategic opportunities.”

Previously, Ford served as the general manager of games for Sprint Nextel, where his responsibilities included strategic planning, marketing and management of wireless games, resulting in millions of game downloads. With a proven record of success and exceptional industry insight, Ford is a recognized visionary in the mobile games industry.

“Namco Networks is poised to lead the mobile entertainment industry in new directions,” Ford said. “I am pleased to join Namco’s team and look forward to developing a strategy that will turn tremendous growth opportunities into reality.”

About Namco Networks

Established January 1, 2006, Namco Networks America Inc. is a subsidiary of Namco Bandai Holdings (USA) Inc., a worldwide leader in the high-tech entertainment industry. Namco uses cutting-edge technology to provide fun, quality entertainment to mobile consumers throughout the Americas. For more information about Namco mobile games, please visit: www.namcogames.com.

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 8:24 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

LOS ANGELES – June 20, 2006 – D3Publisher of America, Inc. (D3PA), a publisher and developer of interactive entertainment software, today announced the release of their first title for the Nintendo DS™ Break’em All. Players will attempt to break’em all in classic arcade puzzle solving action as they fight their way through more than 3 million variations of randomly generated levels and out-duel challenging bosses. Three unique gameplay modes such as Tokoton, Quest and Survival offer compelling single player action or multiplayer games for 2-8 players via the wireless feature for Nintendo DS. Break’em All is available now on stores shelves across North America with a suggested retail price of $19.95.

“Game genres ebb and flow in popularity, but compelling arcade style games are always a favorite among gamers,” said Alison Quirion, vice president of marketing, D3PA. “Break’em All is easy to pick up and play, but challenging to master as it offers hours of entertainment for one low price.”

Jam packed with levels ranging from the super simple to supremely difficult, Break’em All allows players to control their paddle with pin-point accuracy using the touch pad and stylus and offers 12 diverse bonus powers to power-up their ball. Break’em All will challenge the most skilled players as they strive to set and break multiple records for High Score, Maximum Rallies, Bricks Broken and more!

Break’em All was developed by Warashi and is rated “E” for Everyone by the ESRB.

About D3Publisher of America, Inc

D3Publisher of America, Inc. is a subsidiary of D3, Inc. with headquarters in Tokyo. D3Publisher of America’s strategic focus is on licensed and original titles from leading third-party developers that appeal to mass-market consumers or gaming enthusiasts. Based in Los Angeles, D3Publisher of America distributes and publishes software for personal computers and the major console platforms including Game Boy® Advance, Nintendo GameCube™, Nintendo DSÔ, PlayStation® game console, PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, PSP™ portable entertainment system and the Xbox® video game system from Microsoft. For additional information on D3Publisher of America and its products, visit the website at http://www.d3publisher.us

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 1:22 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

NEW YORK / TORONTO (June 19, 2006) – The National Hockey League Players’ Association (NHLPA) and the National Hockey League (NHL®) today announced that Electronic Arts (EA) and 2K Sports have agreed to non-exclusive, multi-year licensing extensions. EA and 2K Sports will continue to offer a full complement of NHL video games with rights for all current and next-generation consoles, including the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, PlayStation®3 (PS3) computer entertainment system, PSP™ (PlayStation®Portable) system, Xbox 360™ and Xbox® video game and entertainment systems from Microsoft, PC, and Nintendo Wii™.

EA has been an entertainment-marketing partner with the NHL and NHLPA since 1991. At the start of the 2005-06 NHL season, EA, headed by development teams at EA Montreal and EA Canada in Vancouver, B.C., created 30 team-specific video game animation vignettes to showcase and introduce the new NHL rules changes to hockey fans. This fall, EA will present NHL 07 for current and next-generation consoles, including Xbox 360.

In November 2005, 2K Sports’ NHL 2K6 game was the first and only NHL video game available for the Xbox 360 console at the launch of the new video game system. This holiday season, 2K Sports will publish NHL 2K7 for PlayStation3 and Xbox 360 next-generation game consoles, as well as current-generation systems. The NHL 2K series is developed by 2K Sports’ Kush Games and Visual Concepts development studios.

“We’re excited to extend our relationship with EA and 2K Sports since they have long been on the cutting edge of the sports gaming category, and are now leading the way in the development of next generation, three-dimensional gaming,” said Ken Kim, NHLPA Senior Director, Business. “NHL players are fans of these titles as well, and they, like the gamers, can’t wait to see the year-to-year advances that are made to replicate the intensity of a real NHL game. We look forward to continued growth in the video game marketplace through these agreements.”

“NHL fans and consumers want more choices and extending our relationships with EA Sports and 2K Sports offers them the ability to choose the quality games they want to play,” said Brian Jennings, NHL Senior Vice President, Consumer Products Marketing. “Video gaming technology is increasing our younger fans’ abilities to connect with the personalities and athletic abilities of our players. And both EA Sports and 2K Sports have world-class development teams that successfully design games that continuously enhance that connection.”

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 3:32 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

June 19, 2006 (BELLEVUE, WA) – ArenaNet®, developer of the world’s leading subscription-free online roleplaying games Guild Wars® and Guild Wars Factions™, and NCsoft® Corporation, the world’s leading developer and publisher of online computer games, announce today the Guild Wars franchise has sold more than two million units worldwide to date. In further news, sales data from The NPD Group shows Guild Wars Factions as the number one selling PC game in North America for the month of May 2006.

“The highly successful release of Guild Wars Factions has solidified the Guild Wars franchise as a mainstay with gamers,” says Bob McKenzie, Senior VP of Merchandising, GameStop, Inc. “As a top seller for GameStop and EBGames, we watch with high interest how this property continues to make a stronghold for itself in the marketplace.”

When the first installment in this award-winning series, Guild Wars, launched in April 2005, it revolutionized online gaming and was an instant bestseller worldwide. Not to be outdone, ArenaNet’s hotly anticipated Guild Wars Factions, released April 28, 2006, was the number one game in both North America and Europe for the month of May.

“ArenaNet continues to take chances in both game design and business model, and it’s great to have the fans respond so enthusiastically right out of the gate with Guild Wars Factions,” says Patrick Wyatt, co-founder of ArenaNet. “Our fans have been overwhelmingly supportive of Guild Wars, and we will continue to make the Guild Wars franchise bigger and better with each release.”

Guild Wars and Guild Wars Factions are global online roleplaying games in which players immerse themselves in a rich fantasy world, build personalized characters, compete in head-to-head battles with players from around the world, and find adventure in missions and quests. In the game that has captivated millions of players, more than 7000 guilds worldwide are currently competing in the Guild Wars Factions tournament season, the finalists of which will be flown to Leipzig, Germany in August to compete for more than $100,000 in cash and prizes. For complete tournament rules, please visit www.guildwars.com.

Guild Wars Factions is rated T for Teen.

About ArenaNet
ArenaNet, located in Bellevue, Washington, is a wholly-owned subsidiary of NCsoft Corporation. ArenaNet has built a state-of-the-art interactive game network and develops premier multiplayer online games for dedicated game players. ArenaNet’s titles, Guild Wars and Guild Wars Factions, are global online roleplaying games that allow gamers to play with anyone, anytime, and anywhere in the world. More information about ArenaNet can be found at www.arena.net.

About NCsoft Corporation

NCsoft North America is headquartered in Austin, Texas and is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Korea-based NCsoft Corporation. NCsoft, with its own development and publishing offices in Texas and California, also works with other NCsoft subsidiaries and third party developers throughout North America to develop and publish innovative online entertainment software products. The company has successfully launched multiple online titles in the last three years and continues to support its AAA franchises that include Lineage®/Lineage II, City of Heroes®/City of Villains™, Guild Wars®/Guild Wars Factions™ and Auto Assault®. More information about NCsoft can be found at http://www.plaync.com.

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 10:16 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

REDMOND, Wash., June 19 /PRNewswire/ -- During the busy summer travel season, it's a rite of passage for travelers young and old to stock up on games and puzzles for entertainment during long flights and car trips. Nintendo is declaring summer 2006 the "summer of sudoku."

Sudoku Gridmaster(TM) launches June 26 exclusively for Nintendo DS(TM), letting vacationers take more than 400 sudoku puzzles on the go and save their progress at any stage. The compact Nintendo DS fits into bags, whether it's being carried onto planes or toted to the beach. For those who like to travel light, the new, lighter, brighter Nintendo DS Lite makes all your portable
games look better than ever.
"The Nintendo DS touch-screen controls make it easy for players to write, change and save their answers," says George Harrison, Nintendo of America's senior vice president of marketing and corporate communications. "Sudoku Gridmaster is one of the many ways Nintendo is getting new audiences involved in video games."
Sudoku Gridmaster contains four levels of difficulty, giving sudoku novices and experts alike a variety of challenging puzzles. Players use logic to fill a grid with numbers. It sounds simple, but its addictive nature has helped to make sudoku one of the most popular puzzle games in the world. Sudoku Gridmaster also adds some features to enhance the experience in ways not possible when doing the puzzle on paper. With a touch, players can highlight an entire row or column. Or they can highlight all instances of numbers at once. And of course, a grid can be saved for hours or days before the player plays again.
Sudoku Gridmaster is one of the first titles in Nintendo's new Touch Generations brand, which highlights titles with appeal beyond core gamers. The distinctive Touch Generations logo helps gaming newcomers identify which titles might be the most fun for them. For more information about Sudoku Gridmaster and all the Touch Generations titles, visit
www.TouchGenerations.com.

The worldwide innovator in the creation of interactive entertainment, Nintendo Co., Ltd., of Kyoto, Japan, manufactures and markets hardware and software for its Nintendo DS(TM), Game Boy(R) Advance and Nintendo GameCube(TM) systems, and upcoming Wii(TM) console. Since 1983, Nintendo has sold nearly 2.2 billion video games and more than 375 million hardware units globally, and has created industry icons like Mario(TM), Donkey Kong(R), Metroid(R), Zelda(TM) and Pokemon(R). A wholly owned subsidiary, Nintendo of America Inc., based in Redmond, Wash., serves as headquarters for Nintendo's operations in the Western Hemisphere. For more information about Nintendo, visit the company's Web site at www.nintendo.com.

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 7:36 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Eidos Interactive, one of the world’s leading publishers and developers of entertainment software, confirms today that they are developing a special ‘10th Anniversary Edition’ of Tomb Raider.

The new game is being developed by Crystal Dynamics, who recently launched Lara Croft Tomb Raider: Legend on Xbox 360, PS2, Xbox, PC and PSP, with versions on Nintendo DS, GBA and GameCube later in 2006.

“Our ‘10th Anniversary Edition’ of Tomb Raider, is a one-off title to celebrate both Lara and Tomb Raider, it will appeal not only to the loyal fans of the Tomb Raider series but will also attract a totally new audience.” Said Larry Sparks, Head of Brands Management at Eidos.

Tomb Raider™ originally launched in 1996 and is still one of the best selling videogame franchises of all time, with over 30 million copies sold.

The special ‘10th Anniversary Edition’ of Tomb Raider will be available on PlayStation 2, PSP and PC.

About Eidos Interactive Ltd
Eidos Interactive Ltd is part of SCi Entertainment Group Plc (SEG) one of the world's leading publishers and developers of entertainment software. Following the acquisition of EIDOS Plc in May 2005, the Group has a valuable combined portfolio of intellectual property including: Tomb Raider: Legend, Conflict: Global Storm, Hitman: Blood Money, Championship Manager, Just Cause, Battlestations: Midway, Urban Chaos: Riot Response and the interactive rights to Reservoir Dogs and Highlander.

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 5:19 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The deal will see the Rebellion group acquire the Derby studios and staff of Core Design, who will continue to work with Eidos on a new project and will be re-named [Rebellion Derby]. The Core Design name and valuable IPs will be retained by Eidos. The acquisition forms an important part of Rebellion’s strategy to become one of Europe’s leading independent studios.

Jason Kingsley, CEO and Creative Director of Rebellion said, ”Core’s development studio is one of the UK industry’s major success story’s and we’re delighted to have completed the deal with Eidos. With Next-Gen with us now, and the publisher requirements that brings, the studio’s talent and innovation allows us to continue to compete at a global level.”

Jason continues, “We’re in a position where our products such as Sniper EliteTM and Rogue TrooperTM are receiving critical acclaim and our reputation for innovative, quality products is in the ascendant. This acquisition is a major component in maintaining this progression, and together with our business plan for 2006, it’s our goal to develop the Rebellion Group into one of Europe’s most successful independent studios.”

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 5:16 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

By Old Timey Gamer

Score 5 out of 5

The story of the Lemming civilization is one of hardship and, ultimately, benevolence. Forever traveling across a haunted landscape strewn with thick, industrial-grade piping, ruins that one may expect to find in Ancient Greece or Egypt, and even pits of lava from the very bowels of hell itself, Lemmings face extinction on a daily basis. Certain historians have questioned, from time to time, the ability of Lemmings to not only survive but to thrive. To them, it is quickly pointed out, often delivered as a joke, but at heart meant seriously, that the Lemming has no predator other than its own stupidity.

Readily identified by a unruly mop of shockingly green hair, a Lemming (Lemmingo Dimwittum) is content to follow the one in front of it--the asexual nature of the creature along with its rather unusual mating ritual would make an interesting future study--even if the next step would cause it to fatally fall from a precarious height or sizzle in a pool of burning lava. True, throughout Lemming history, certain creatures have performed heroic, selfless acts, thereby dooming itself to save the rest. The most common of these feats involve acting as a blocker, causing the unstoppable march of the Lemmings to reverse direction, say, from a path that would carry the group off the edge of the known universe and into certain death.

That Lemming society has clearly benefited from these selfless acts is not in question. However, a group of experts (that have been dismissed by some as being crackpots), who have closely analyzed every aspect of Lemming society, have made a remarkable discovery: the creatures are saved from certain doom by an invisible hand. Apparently, the actions of a master class, known as Gamers, ultimately decide whether Lemmings live or die.

Now, only a select few can ever hope to join the ranks of this master class. For to be a Gamer responsible for the continued survival of an entire civilization not only requires a pair of hands willing to hold the platform upon which this world exists (known as a PSP), but also demands a certain skill-set that many find extremely difficult to master, namely exceptional analytical thinking, unquestionable hand-eye coordination, and impeccable timing.

For more than 15 years, I have been a proud member of this select group, unable to stop myself from saving the Lemmings on multiple platforms, from their first appearance on the Commodore Amiga to their most recent on the Sony PSP. (I even have a vague recollection of playing this game in a good; old-fashion arcade in the 80’s…perhaps this is just a figment of my imagination, a mythologizing of my past. Is there anyone out there who can confirm if this was a coin-op game back then?) By far, this latest version is the best. The Lemming world has never looked or sounded as good.

Dear reader, if you have made it this far, I suspect that you have what it takes: a kind soul, no doubt, but more importantly, a curious mind, one that does not rest until a problem is solved--and with more than 150 levels/puzzles, as well as the ability to design your own, the Lemmings on PSP will fill your days and nights for, well, many days and many nights. If you’re ready for the challenge, step right up, join the ranks, and help save the Lemming civilization! You’ll be glad you did.

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 8:41 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Englewood, Colo., June 14, 2006 – Starz Entertainment Group (SEG) gets its trigger finger ready with the world’s most popular games show, now coming to the U.S. for the first time. A big hit internationally, “Gamer TV” is now a weekly half-hour original series premiering Saturday, June 24 at 11:00 a.m. ET/PT on Starz Edge with replays every Wednesday at 8:30 p.m. ET/PT. The show will also be available for download on Vongo, the new broadband download service offered by SEG.

The premiere episode of Gamer TV features reviews about Sony’s PlayStation 3 launch and the pros and cons surrounding it. The episode also focuses on the correlation between films based on games and offers preview clips of those games including Pirates of The Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest.

“Gamer TV” offers a behind-the-scenes insider’s look at all of the newest videogames on the consumer market. In addition, the show highlights what works and what doesn’t in the games, probes and critiques the visual aspects and game features. The show will also feature what the creators and designers have to say about their game and offer back stories on the origins of the characters and situations. “Gamer TV” also looks at future videogames that are in production.

“’Gamer TV’ is a great fit for our Starz Edge channel, which is targeted to the tastes and lifestyle of the precise demographic that has embraced games culture,” said Jonathan Shair, SEG vice president programming and scheduling.

"We're really pleased that our program has found a great home in North America. It's the final piece of the jigsaw and means that Gamer TV is now broadcast to over 220 million homes in five continents each week, which we guess makes it the best watched TV show about games on the planet," said Richard Wilcox, Gamer TV's executive producer.

The new series is just part of an expanded interest in games at SEG. Starz Edge will premiere exclusive original documentaries on the making of two games: The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion The Witch and The Wardrobe, based on the hit movie; and DragonQuest, the Japanese phenomenon that has sold 35 million videogames and spun-off toys, figurines, books and other collectibles. “There’s a trend in Hollywood of turning videogames into movies and vice versa,” says Shair. “Just look at box-office hits such as Silent Hill, Doom and the Lara Croft films, all which started out as a video