Game On!

Santa Monica, CA – August 29, 2006 – Activision, Inc. (Nasdaq: ATVI) announced today that award-winning composers Chance Thomas (Peter Jackson’s King Kong, Lord of the Rings series), Cris Velasco (God of War) and Mark Griskey (Best of LucasArts Original Soundtrack) have scored the upcoming, critically-acclaimed Marvel™: Ultimate Alliance video game. The trio has produced over 50 minutes of original music for Marvel: Ultimate Alliance, including arrangements for multiple game levels, the in-game cinematics and the Super Hero™ and boss battle themes.

Marvel: Ultimate Alliance is Raven Software’s highly anticipated action/RPG that allows players to create their Marvel dream team from the largest roster of Super Heroes ever in an epic quest that will determine the fate of Earth and the Marvel Universe. With over 140 popular Marvel characters and a playable cast of more than 20 Super Heroes, including Spider-Man, Wolverine, Blade and Captain America, gamers will embark on a dangerous journey across exotic terrain and well-known comic book locations like Atlantis, the Shield Heli-Carrier and the Skrull home world in an attempt to defy Dr. Doom and the world’s most notorious Super Villains.

Marvel: Ultimate Alliance will be the first Super Hero game available this fall for all next-gen gaming systems. Additionally, the game will be available for current-gen consoles, handheld and PC platforms, and carries a “T” (Teen – Mild Language, Violence) rating by the ESRB.

About Marvel Entertainment, Inc.

With a library of over 5,000 characters, Marvel Entertainment, Inc. is one of the world's most prominent character-based entertainment companies. Marvel's operations are focused on utilizing its character franchises in licensing, entertainment, publishing and toys. Areas of emphasis include feature films, DVD/home video, consumer products, video games, action figures and role-playing toys, television and promotions. Rooted in the creative success of over sixty years of comic book publishing, Marvel's strategy is to leverage its character franchises in a growing array of opportunities around the world. More information about Marvel can be found at www.marvel.com.

About Activision, Inc.

Headquartered in Santa Monica, California, Activision, Inc. is a leading worldwide developer, publisher and distributor of interactive entertainment and leisure products. Founded in 1979, Activision posted net revenues of $1.47 billion for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2006.

Activision maintains operations in the U.S. , Canada , the United Kingdom , France , Germany , Italy , Japan , Australia , Scandinavia , Spain , the Netherlands and South Korea . More information about Activision and its products can be found on the company's World Wide Web site, which is located at www.activision.com.

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 9:19 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Guildford, UK – August 29, 2006 – Buckle up and prepare to unleash automotive anarchy in the ultimate burner’s paradise. Electronic Arts (NASDAQ: ERTS) today announced that Burnout™ 5 is in development for the PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system and Xbox 360™ video game system from Microsoft®.

Burnout 5 gives players license to wreak havoc in Paradise City, the ultimate seamless racing battleground, with a massive infrastructure of traffic-heavy roads to abuse. Gone is the need to jump in and out of menus and aimlessly search for fun like many open world games; in Burnout 5, every inch of the world is built to deliver heart-stopping Burnout-style gameplay. Every intersection is a potential crash junction and every alleyway is an opportunity to rack up moving violations.

Of course, rules are made to be broken, and when gamers enter Paradise City, they’re assigned a Drivers License that quickly begins to amass a record of player’s most aggressive, reckless and destructive exploits behind the wheel. But it’s not the law that’s eyeing player’s progress … when gamers push things too hard they’ll be squaring off against the city’s most infamous burners, and these legends aren’t interested in who crosses the finish line first.

“Burnout 5 is a complete reinvention of the series, built from the ground up for the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360,” said Alex Ward, director of game design at Criterion Games. “To create truly next-generation gameplay, we needed to create a truly next-generation game, from top to bottom.”

Burnout 5 also delivers the next level of speed and destruction, with brand new next-generation technology allowing gamers to literally rip their cars in half, in the most explosive pile-ups in the series’ history.

Burnout 5 will ship in 2007 under the EA™ brand and was developed by Criterion Games in Guildford, UK. For more information about the Burnout franchise, please visit http://ea.com. For more information about Criterion Games, please visit http://www.criteriongames.com.

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 8:28 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

SUNNYVALE , Calif. ― August 29, 2006 ― Capcom, a leading worldwide developer and publisher of video games, today announced Dead Rising™, the company’s first game for Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, has shipped more than 500,000 units within the first two weeks of its launch. Dead Rising released on August 8 in North America and it is scheduled to release on September 8 in Europe and on September 28 in Japan . The game carries an “M” rating for mature audiences by the ESRB (Entertainment Software Rating Board).

In preparation for the next generation transition, in 2005 Capcom concentrated on creating titles for foreign markets while seeking to improve its marketing, sales and business operations functions in North America . Dead Rising’s early success is attributable to these changes and Capcom’s foresighted philosophy of embracing next generation development to yield a high quality title with worldwide appeal. As a result, Dead Rising is also the fastest selling next generation title for a Japanese publisher.

Dead Rising is an action horror game that follows the harrowing tale of Frank West, an overly zealous freelance photojournalist in pursuit of the story of a lifetime. What he finds is a small suburban town completely overrun by zombies. He seeks refuge in the local shopping mall, but soon learns it is far from the safe haven he had thought.

Dead Rising takes place over 72 hours, during which Frank must unravel the mystery behind the catastrophe and survive the dangerous swarm of enemies that lie in wait. The unprecedented level of freedom provides players with a vast array of gameplay possibilities to do anything and everything they’ve wanted to do in a mall. Hundreds of unique objects can be used as weapons to fend off the hordes of zombies - everything from golf clubs and baseball bats to cash registers and stuffed animals. Additional outfits for use in-game are available for free download on Xbox Live Marketplace, and there are plenty of other options to customize Xbox 360 experience with Dead Rising themes.

“Response to Dead Rising from the trade, press and consumers has been tremendous,” said Charles Bellfield , vice president, marketing, Capcom Entertainment. “The success of the game is a result of Capcom’s recognition of Xbox 360 system’s possibilities and starting development early on in order to deliver such a high-quality game.”

Capcom is a leading worldwide developer, publisher and distributor or interactive entertainment. Founded in 1983, the company has created world renowned franchises including Resident Evil, Street Fighter, Mega Man, Viewtiful Joe, Devil May Cry and the Onimusha series. Headquartered in Osaka , Japan , the company maintains operations in the United States , United Kingdom , Germany , Tokyo and Hong Kong . More information about Capcom and its products can be found on the company’s web site at www.capcom.com.

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 8:25 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Berlin, Germany (August 29, 2006) – Philips Entertaible is revealing its fully integrated tabletop gaming platform ‘Entertaible’ at this year’s Internationale Funkausstellung in Berlin. The multi-purpose platform enables a new class of gaming that combines the excitement of electronic games with the fun and social interaction of board games. Entertaible is based on revolutionary new technologies enabling simultaneous multi-user interaction, object detection and recognition.

Since the presentation of a functional prototype last January, Philips Entertaible has developed the concept into a robust and integrated gaming platform, operating stand-alone and ready for market testing. When given Internet connectivity, options like tournament games and network gaming become possible. The low-profile design pushes the technology more into the background, further focusing Entertaible on the new gaming experience. The seamless interplay between the real and virtual world brings board game playing to another level of enjoyment.

Entertaible uses proprietary digital shape recognition and multi-touch sensing (patent pending) to interpret the moves of several players simultaneously. This generates a highly interactive, intense gaming experience where speed and clever tactics are essential to win. The simultaneous tracking encourages players to make their moves in real-time by dispensing with the need to wait for their turn, and allows participants – with practice - to plan moves in advance and react immediately to the actions of the other players. The use of physical objects like pawns and bats to directly manipulate the virtual world enhances the sense of magic.

The platform supports products for social gaming as well as for other markets like infotainment services and educational applications in both the professional as well as the consumer domain. Philips Entertaible is initially targeting social gaming away from home in locations such as pubs, bars, hotels or restaurants and plans pilot testing at several partner locations in Q4 2006.

Visitors at IFA will be able to see the platform, experience it and enjoy the immersive gaming generated by Entertaible.

The Entertaible platform demonstrated at IFA 2006 comprises a 32-inch horizontal LCD, multi-touch and shape recognition technology, BaryBassTM for small-form factor bass reproduction, and PC-based control logic, all housed in a robust table-top unit only ten centimeters in height. This allows the Entertaible to be used in a wide range of settings and lighting conditions, and the hardware to be custom fitted in furniture. At IFA, the Entertaible is housed in furniture that matches the theme of the Philips booth in Hall 22.

“At IFA we will be showing the unique capabilities of this platform in a fully integrated form. As a result of focusing on the end-user needs in multi-user social gaming, we have created a compelling entertainment proposition. In the next phase we will further validate our proposition through field trials with key partners and show we can move the gaming experience up to a higher level”, explains Maurice Groten, General Manager of Philips Entertaible.

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 9:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

EA Sports
Also available for PS2, Xbox, Gamecube, PC, PSP, DS, GBA
Score 4.5 out of 5

Last year's debut of Madden NFL on the Xbox 360 was a horrifying disappointment. This means that EA Sports could do just about anything and produce a better version for this year. I'm happy to report that they've done a lot and Madden NFL 07 on the Xbox 360 is a great, but not perfect, game.

EA Sports has the exclusive video game license of the NFL and PLAYERS INC and Madden NFL has been the best selling football game of all time. This is the 17th installment and for this game they've focused on the running game. Last year they revolutionized the passing game and this year they're aiming to revolutionize the running game. It's possible to play as the lead blocker to set a block, and then switch to the running back and burst through the hole. New running controls give you the easy ability to overpower defenders, juke right or left, or take a cute little backwards step. The right thumbstick lets you use player specific running styles matching those of the real NFL players. For example, smaller backs slash and cut to avoid tackles and bigger backs overpower defenders.

The running controls are a step forward, more so the Highlight Stick (right thumbstick) than the blocking. I find that it's not so easy to set a good block and many times I'm better off letting the computer do it. Although, a few times I have dealt out devastating blocks on sweeps on the outside and then switched to the runner and danced into the end zone. That was fun. So my feelings are mixed on the blocking. But the Highlight Stick rocks. Shaun Alexander bowls corner back over and Tiki Barber sort of slithers his way around defenders when you push up. It's very cool stuff. I have great control over jukes also. The running game is pretty powerful stuff. Coupled with the improvements in passing last year this makes for a powerful offense.

Specific to Xbox 360 is the ability to create a play and then increase his attributes by running him through skill based mini-games called mini-camp. In the off season you can use mini-camp to condition players or rehab injuries to get back on the field faster. This feeds into NFL Superstar: Hall of Fame Mode where you take your player into the big leagues and play on the field with the pros. I played a little of this and sort of lets you pretend that you're in the NFL, at least for a little while and then you realize that playing the football game is what matters. You've got to make decisions on and off the field. I'd rather just play football, but for those who want the solo career aspects, they're there. Also on 360 is the Madden Gamer Level which is a great statistical tracking system. It keeps track of your accomplishments while playing ("Make an Interception") and then generates a score for you. This lets you know exactly how you stack up against opponents online.

Overall, the attention to detail is excellent. The crowd looks and acts more real. There is action on the sidelines. The camera angles are very good at building up the drama of the game. EA did a great job with the announcer who actuallly keeps track of what's going on on the football field. Madden doesn't say much, which is a disappointment. This game is worth having for the 360, although I have to admit that I like the controls on the PS2 better.

And the best part is that it's fun to play.

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 9:51 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)

Los Angeles (August 22, 2006) – Giving gamers the chance to play doctors and nurses, Codemasters today announced the signing of Hospital Tycoon, an original PC title from development studio Deep Red Games (Monopoly Tycoon, Vega$: Make It Big!, Tycoon City: New York).

Set for a spring 2007 launch, Hospital Tycoon is a medical-themed God game in which players are put in charge of hectic hospital facilities that are constantly on the verge of crisis and collapse. Players are challenged to run, maintain, enhance and expand the hospitals while turning any chaotic situation around using ingenious management techniques.

The most infectious thing about Hospital Tycoon is its humor as players experience how the game’s characters – the doctors, nurses and patients – interact with each other and react to how well the player is running each hospital. The game’s high level of character interaction will create a living hospital that’s part soap opera and part comedy.

A move away from micro-management life-simulation games, Hospital Tycoon will create emerging situations that are as entertaining as they are challenging. The manic medical teams have to deal with patients suffering from the most peculiar ailments, such as the man afflicted with ‘Monkey Nuts’ and the office worker diagnosed with Stress Zombosis, and set about curing them with equally odd treatments.

“Hospital Tycoon promises to be great fun, and continues Deep Red’s drive to fuse the established core gameplay of our previous Tycoon games with richer and deeper character simulation,” said Steve Beverley, project leader at Deep Red Games.

“With Hospital we’ve added a generous helping of widely-appealing humor and a kind of soap-opera format too. The game is designed for play either as a sandbox toy, making it accessible to a wider audience, or with structured challenges appealing to core gamers,” added Beverley. “Whichever way it’s played, it’ll be accessible, funny, visually gorgeous, and offer depth for those that want to dig for it.”

Players will direct the hospital’s medical staff, ensure patients are cared for and have the treatment facilities required. There’s also the upkeep of each hospital to control and develop; dedicated areas can be built to support additional medical needs – surgery, diagnosis, physiotherapy and more. Get it right and patients will go home happy, get it wrong and armies of angry, sick people will make everyone’s life hell.

The game’s rich visual design will deliver detailed, comedic representations of the patients’ bizarre diseases. The more patients that are cured, the more player’s medical empire can grow and flourish, but watch out for the spread of infectious conditions, or soon an epidemic could plunge the hospital into absolute chaos.

Giving players the chance to play their part in a modern medical drama (and prevent it turning into a crisis), Hospital Tycoon is now in development, exclusively for PC, and scheduled for spring 2007. For the latest on the game, visit the wards online at www.codemasters.com/hospitaltycoon.

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 8:35 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

SANTA CLARA, Calif., (August 22, 2006) – Leading video games publisher and developer NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc. announced today that Pac-Man World Rally™ has shipped and is available in retail outlets nationwide for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system, Nintendo GameCube™ and PC.

Developed by Smart Bomb Interactive, Pac-Man World Rally puts players behind the wheel to race through a variety of Pac-Man World environments as Pac-Man®, Jr. Pac-Man and other famous Namco characters such as Mr. Driller®, Mappy® and the Prince from Katamari Damacy™. In the fastest and most exciting kart racing game ever, players can race for the win or fight it out in colorful Battle Arenas with unique weapons, power-ups and a variety of Pac-Man powers. The newest installment in the franchise also includes the villains of Pac-Man World: Toc-Man, Spooky, Erwin – and introduces the most evil of them all, Pac-Devil!

“Pac-Man World Rally gives fans of all ages the opportunity to enjoy the franchise’s first-ever kart racer,” said John Whitmore, Director of Internal/External Development at NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc. “The game’s roster of popular classic characters, challenging tracks and finely tuned power sliding mechanics are sure to deliver an unforgettable gameplay experience.”

Players will experience an unprecedented sense of speed as they race against their friends or the computer on fun and exciting new tracks with unique new kart racing features, including:

* Play as Pac-Man and other famous Namco characters! – Play as the iconic characters from the Pac-Man universe, or choose from an all-star cast of classic Namco characters such as Pooka, Fygar, Mr. Driller and more!
* The most outrageous Battle Mode ever seen in kart racing! – Pac-Man and friends have a whole new set of weapons to duke it out in custom single-player and multiplayer Battle Arenas!
* The Pac-Mobile! – No matter what character you choose, if you eat enough Pac Dots on the track you can transform into the giant Pac-Mobile and gobble up the competition!
* Shortcuts galore! – Keep your eyes peeled for Pac-Man’s classic fruit power-ups – they open hidden Fruit Doors that will catapult you into the lead!

Pac-Man World Rally is rated “E” for Everyone by the ESRB. For more information about Pac-Man World Rally, please visit http:///www.namcobandaigames.com.

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 8:32 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

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

Redwood City, Calif. – August 21, 2006 – Throw out the rules of engagement, this is all-out war! Electronic Arts (NASDAQ: ERTS) today announced that Battlefield: Bad Company™ is currently in development for the Xbox 360™ video game system from Microsoft® and PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system.

Built from the ground-up for next-generation consoles using Digital Illusions’ bleeding-edge Frostbite™ game engine, Battlefield: Bad Company drops gamers behind enemy lines with a squad of renegade soldiers who risk it all on a personal quest for gold and revenge. Featuring a deep, cinematic single-player experience loaded with adventure and dark humor, the game delivers the series’ trademark sandbox gameplay in a universe where nearly everything is destructible.

“The heart of DICE’s multiplayer games is the frenetic, unpredictable nature of the sandbox experience, where anything could happen at any moment, and that’s what we’re bringing to the core of Battlefield: Bad Company’s single-player campaign, said Karl Magnus Troedsson, senior producer at DICE. “In a world that’s 90 percent destructible, the gameplay possibilities are infinite – the battlefield is always changing, forcing players, teammates, and enemies to react accordingly. Gamers will have total freedom to adapt to and tackle challenges in creative Battlefield-style ways.”

Battlefield: Bad Company also will feature a full suite of the franchise’s trademark multiplayer options with deep gameplay modes designed to take full advantage of the game’s massively destructible environments.

Developed by Sweden-based developer Digital Illusions, Battlefield: Bad Company is slated to ship for the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 in 2007. For more information about the Battlefield franchise, please visit http://battlefield.ea.com

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

SAN FRANCISCO– AUGUST 23, 2006 – Today Ubisoft, one of the
world’s largest video game publishers, announced a new chapter in the
award-winning Silent Hunter® submarine simulation franchise Silent Hunter 4:
Wolves of the Pacificâ„¢. Silent Hunter 4: Wolves of the Pacific will
be available for PC in the spring of 2007.

“The Silent Hunter series is a legendary franchise that
unquestionably set the standard for submarine simulations,” said Tony Key, Vice
President of Marketing at Ubisoft. “Silent Hunter 4: Wolves of the
Pacific continues that tradition with its amazing graphics, authenticity
and immersive gameplay.”

Developed by Ubisoft’s studio in Romania, Silent Hunter 4: Wolves of
the Pacific takes players to the depths of the Pacific Ocean as the
skipper of an American submarine. Immersed in this intense environment
with the help of amazing graphics and sound, players will engage in
massive battles with enemy units, manage and evolve an entire submarine crew,
and earn promotions and commendations to ensure victory in the Pacific.

Silent Hunter 4: Wolves of the Pacific features include:

• Hollywood Blockbuster Experience: Lifelike graphics and spectacular
audio/visual effects offer an incredibly immersive gaming experience.

• Innovative Crew Evolution: Earn upgrades and experience to help
create the most effective naval force in the Pacific Theater.

• Immersive Single-Player Gameplay: Diverse mission objectives and
events on more than 15 maps combined with unique rewards make each
campaign a unique experience.

• Addictive New Online Adversarial Mode: Join forces with up to eight
friends via LAN or four via Internet in either cooperative or
adversarial gameplay modes. Scripted and generated mission types allow for epic
online battles and unlimited replayability.

About Ubisoft:
Ubisoft is a leading producer, publisher and distributor of interactive
entertainment products worldwide and has grown considerably through its
strong and diversified lineup of products and partnerships. Ubisoft has
offices in 21 countries and sales in more than 50 countries around the
globe. It is committed to delivering high-quality, cutting-edge video
game titles to consumers. Ubisoft generated revenue of 547 million Euros
for the 2005–2006 fiscal year, an increase of 3 percent over the
previous fiscal year at constant exchange rates. To learn more, please
visit www.ubisoftgroup.com.

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 8:20 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Company Also Discloses Karaoke Revolution Presents: American Idol’s Chart-Topping Song List Featuring 40 Songs Including All-Time Classics, Contemporary Favorites, And Hits From The Television Show

REDWOOD CITY, Calif. – August 23, 2006 – Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc., caught up with American Idol’s famous judges Simon Cowell and Randy Jackson to get their comments about the upcoming video game Karaoke Revolution®Presents: American Idol for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system. Gamers will not only come face-to-face with Cowell and Jackson as they rate performances and provide feedback, but Konami’s groundbreaking artificial intelligence (AI) inside the game will also enable them to critique specific parts of any performance, a first in the award-winning video game’s history.

"Over the years American Idol has produced some amazingly talented singers, but let's be honest most of the people who turn up for the auditions are useless," said Simon Cowell. "For anyone who wants to know what it's like to audition in front of me, now you're about to find out. This game is a great representation of American Idol.”

“The number one show on television and the top karaoke video game around – wow, this is going to be big time!” said Randy Jackson. “It’s amazing what Konami has accomplished in making this game look and feel like the TV show.”

“Our goal with Karaoke Revolution Presents: American Idol is to deliver the experience of being a contestant on the television program. Simon Cowell and Randy Jackson have become synonymous with the show and having them as part of this game adds one more layer of authenticity,” said Matt Knoles, Product Manager at Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc. “Cowell’s and Jackson’s presence goes beyond just their likenesses. With the addition of our groundbreaking AI, their personality will really be felt in the game as they critique specific parts of a player’s performance.”

Karaoke Revolution Presents: American Idol lets players sing and perform using a USB headset/microphone, as they compete through a fully recreated virtual season of the number one show on television. In their quest to become the next American Idol, players can take part in auditions, earn an invitation to Hollywood and compete through the Semi-Finals and Finals stages just like on the popular television show. As players progress through the game, comments from the individual judges, both positive and sometimes outrageously negative, affect whether or not they move on to the next round of competition. Additionally, Karaoke Revolution Presents: American Idol offers support for the EyeToy USB Camera (for PlayStation®2). By utilizing the EyeToy Camera, players can put themselves into the game by creating a 3D model of their head, and watch themselves perform on big video screens within the 3D venues.

As they attempt to be named the next American Idol, Konami is providing gamers a selection of 40 songs, including all-time classics, contemporary favorites and, of course, hits from the television program. Selections include songs and video footage of performances from former Idols of the past 5 seasons. The list of songs also include an eclectic variety of genres from contemporary R&B and pop to classic hits from the 60s, 70s and 80s.

“The song list was carefully chosen to ensure that there was something for every taste and generation. We want to give everyone the opportunity to perform their favorites as they attempt to become the next American Idol,” said Knoles. “With signature songs from former American Idol contestants, faithfully designed American Idol venues and a variety of single- and multi-player game modes, Karaoke Revolution Presents: American Idol is the closest players can get to being on stage without going to an audition.”

The complete list of song titles included in Karaoke Revolution Presents: American Idol is:

* All My Life
* Alone
* (There’s) Always Something There To Remind Me
* Be Without You
* Breakaway
* Build Me Up Buttercup
* Can’t Help Falling In Love
* Crazy Little Thing Called Love
* Dilemma
* Do I Make You Proud
* Don’t Let The Sun Go Down on Me
* Don’t You Want Me
* Easy
* Every Rose Has Its Thorn
* Flying Without Wings
* Heartbreaker
* Heaven
* Hungry Like The Wolf
* If You Don’t Know Me By Now
* It’s Not Unusual
* Just The Way You Are
* Let’s Stay Together
* Love Will Keep Us Together
* More Than Words
* Photograph
* Piano Man
* Proud Mary Rock With You
* Saving All My Love ForYou
* She Bangs
* Stand By Me
* Stickwitu
* Straight Up
* Sugar, We’re Going Down
* The Real Thing
* Total Eclipse Of The Heart
* Unwritten
* What A Girl Wants
* You And Me
* You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feeling

About Konami
Konami is a leading developer, publisher and manufacturer of electronic entertainment properties. Konami’s titles include the popular franchises Metal Gear Solid®, Silent Hill® and Castlevania®, among other top sellers. The latest information about Konami can be found on the Web at www.konami.com. Konami Corporation is a publicly traded company based in Tokyo, Japan with subsidiary offices, Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc. in the United States and Konami Digital Entertainment GmbH in Frankfurt, Germany. Konami Corporation, the parent company of Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc. is traded in the United States on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol KNM. Details of the products published by Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc. can be found at www.konami.com/gs.

About FremantleMedia Licensing Worldwide, Americas:
FremantleMedia Licensing Worldwide, Americas (FLW, Americas) is the licensing arm of FremantleMedia for North and South America. FremantleMedia one of the largest international creators and producers of program brands in the world, with leading prime time drama, serial drama, entertainment and factual entertainment programming in over 40 territories. FLW, Americas exploits FremantleMedia’s many strong brands, including the award winning, American Idol, the world’s longest running gameshow The Price Is Right, the ever-popular Family Feud, and other classic gameshows, across multiple off-screen platforms including merchandising campaigns, live events, sponsorship, interactive and wireless support, home entertainment and music publishing. FLW, Americas is also responsible for additional business diversification initiatives including ‘Thumbdance’, a pioneering wireless channel delivering original made-for-mobile video content on demand.

FLW, Americas is part of FremantleMedia North America (FMNA). FMNA is on the leading edge of global broadcast production, developing some of television's most innovative and watched new programming. Based in Santa Monica and with offices in New York, FMNA has produced such genre-bending shows as the musical/reality phenomenon American Idol. In 2005, FremantleMedia programs garnered 16 Emmy nominations, including six for American Idol. Other credits include The Price Is Right (CBS), the longest-running gameshow in television history, the daily syndicated gameshow Family Feud, the hotly debated reality series The Swan (Fox), the breakout hit lifestyle show How Clean Is Your House? (Lifetime), Distraction (Comedy Central), Property Ladder (TLC), American Inventor (ABC), the upcoming The Gameshow Marathon (CBS) and America’s Got Talent (NBC).

FremantleMedia is the production arm of the RTL Group, Europe's largest television and radio broadcast company. With interests in 34 television channels and 30 radio stations in 10 countries, RTL Group is a division of leading integrated media and entertainment company Bertelsmann AG. For further information, visit www.fremantlemedia.com .

About American Idol:
Fourteen-time Emmy-nominated AMERICAN IDOL is created and executive-produced by Simon Fuller, founder of 19 Entertainment, Ltd.; and executive-produced by Cecile Frot-Coutaz, CEO, FremantleMedia North America, Inc.; Nigel Lythgoe, President, 19 Television; and Ken Warwick, Executive Producer, FremantleMedia North America, Inc.

About 19 Entertainment:
19 Entertainment, Ltd., a wholly-owned subsidiary of CKX, Inc. (NASDAQ: CKXE), was founded by Simon Fuller 21 years ago and acquired by CKX in March 2005. The company is recognized as a leading creator, provider and promoter of globally successful, music-based entertainment, or "Entertainment Brands."

Simon Fuller, who serves as Chief Executive Officer of 19 Entertainment, is the creator of AMERICAN IDOL in the United States, “Pop Idol” in the UK, as well as versions of the IDOL format in more than 30 countries around the world. Fuller is also the co-creator of SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE, which aired in the U.S. on FOX during summer 2005 and was the top-rated television show in its time slot.

Fuller has made music history in the UK and the U.S.A., producing a stream of No. 1 hits and managing multi-platinum-selling acts. Fuller recently became the world's most successful manager – breaking a record set by the Beatles’ manager Brian Epstein in the 1960s – when three of his artists occupied the No. 1, No. 2 and No. 3 positions on the U.S. single chart as well as the No. 1 position on the album chart.

19 Entertainment has been involved in the creation of 109 No. 1 singles and 87 No. 1 albums in the UK alone, with an impressive tally of 296 Top-40 albums and 465 Top-40 singles.

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 8:16 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

REDWOOD CITY, Calif. – August 22, 2006 – Electronic Arts (NASDAQ: ERTS) announced that Madden NFL 07, the newest iteration of the EA SPORTS™ best-selling football franchise with the exclusive videogame license of the NFL and PLAYERS INC, is in stores everywhere today. Madden NFL 07 continues to lead with innovation and gameplay by reinventing the running game with the all-new Lead Blocker Control and the new highlight stick so you can run like the real players run. NFL Superstar: Hall of Fame mode comes to Madden NFL 07 this year, where you can live the life of an NFL Superstar.

Madden NFL 06¸ since its launch, has sold more than 6.5 million copies*, and was the #1 selling videogame of 2005 in North America. Madden NFL Football has become a cultural phenomenon, with more than 51 million copies sold (LTD), and the launch day becoming a holiday for many avid fans.

“Madden NFL Football has become a cultural phenomenon and, with Maddenoliday, we are honoring all the Madden gamers across the country who line up at midnight and then take off the day to play Madden NFL 07,” said Todd Sitrin, VP of marketing for EA Tiburon and EA SPORTS brand. “We continue to bring innovative changes to the game every year, and now with the improvements in the running game, Madden NFL 07 is even more authentic. You will know how it feels to be actually on the field playing with the pros.”

You now control the running game like never before with Lead Blocker Control in Madden NFL 07. For the first time ever, step up as the lead blocker to create a hole, and then take control of the tailback and smash through, overpower, or slash away from would-be tacklers as you fight for every yard. Innovative rushing controls give you a game-breaking ground attack featuring all-new jukes, cutbacks, and the distinct running styles of your favorite backs.

NFL Superstar: Hall of Fame mode makes its debut in Madden NFL 07 on the Xbox 360 and is even deeper for the current generation systems. You can create and customize your own player and guide him one Sunday at a time from that position on the field for an all new way of experiencing the game. Madden NFL 07 Franchise Mode is deeper than ever before. On current generation platforms, now scout collegiate prospects with the all-new NFL Draft Scouting System and the College All-Star Game, or watch players around the NFL impact their teams with the new Franchise Player Roles feature. On Xbox 360, participate in an interactive player rehab through mini games.

For the Xbox 360 there is an all-new Mini-Camp mode where you can build up your players attributes by running him through skill-based, combine-type mini-games. In the off-season use Mini-Camp to condition players or rehab injuries to get back on the field faster. Track your career accomplishments in Franchise Mode to earn Madden Gamer Points, then risk your points against the computer or live opponents in the same room.

In its second installment on the PlayStation® Portable system, Madden NFL 07 brings you a new exclusive mini-games -- return kicks, avoid tackles, and players can aim for the high score in “End 2 End.” And for the first time you can transfer an entire season in Franchise mode from your PlayStation®2 to your PSP system.

September 1 in Denver, CO is the kick off to the highly-anticipated 5th annual EA SPORTS™ Madden Challenge, played exclusively this year on the Xbox® video game system from Microsoft, with a $100,000 grand prize check for the Finals winner. Void where prohibited. Eligibility Restrictions Apply. Tournament runs on published dates in each city. For additional details and Tournament Official Rules see www.maddenchallenge.com.

Entering its 17th year and with more than 51 million copies sold life to date, 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 on August 22 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 (as well as www.downloader.ea.com), PSP™ (PlayStation®Portable) handheld entertainment system and Game Boy® Advance. Madden NFL 07 is rated “E” (Everyone) by the ESRB and has an MSRP of $59.99 for the Xbox 360, $49.99 for the PlayStation 2 console and Xbox, $39.99 for Nintendo GameCube, PSP, and PC, $29.99 for Nintendo DS and Game Boy Advance. In Europe, Madden NFL 07 launches on PS2, Xbox, NDS, PC, PC Downloader August 25 and on Xbox 360 and PSP September 8. For more information check out www.madden07.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.

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 1:55 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

New York, NY – August 21, 2006 – Philips today announced the arrival of ambient intelligence in adventure gaming with the signing of an agreement with THQ Inc. (NASDAQ: THQI) as an official amBX licensee, to deliver its eagerly anticipated Broken Sword: The Angel of Death, due to be published for PC in Summer 2006.

Created by Philips, amBX technology represents a huge leap forward in the development of ambient intelligence and will revolutionize the gameplay experience by extending the gaming world out of the screen and into the real world. amBX will provide gamers with a full ‘sensory surround experience’ by empowering developers with the ability to use light, color, sound and even air flow in the real world, during gameplay.

Blending a scripting language, software engine and architecture, the amBX platform has been designed to deliver all-new player experiences through enabled devices such as LED color-controlled lights, active furniture, fans, heaters, audio and video, all placed strategically around a player’s room.

“With Philips’ amBX system we can create a Broken Sword game that is not only emotionally engaging but also a visual experience that is both dramatic and very unique,” said Mickey Torode, senior global brand manager, THQ Inc. “Philips has been extremely supportive not only with the development of the game, but also in providing THQ the resources and technology to demonstrate the game alongside the new technology for our key partners.”

Broken Sword: The Angel of Death is the fourth release in the award-winning adventure series from Revolution Software and Sumo and is the perfect vehicle to showcase the level and sophistication of ambient intelligence that amBX offers the adventure gaming market.

THQ and amBX/2

“Angel of Death is an ideal game to pioneer our agreement with THQ – innovative, and atmospheric with a strong narrative drive – but it really is just the beginning,” commented Jo Cooke, chief marketing officer for Philips amBX. “THQ’s profound understanding of the market and the strength in depth of its games portfolio will, I’m sure, enable the company to get some stunning results integrating amBX in its games.”

The potential of amBX doesn’t stop at adventure gaming and Philips is currently in the closing stages of agreements with a number of leading computer games developers, publishers and peripheral manufacturers regarding amBX-enabling games and devices.

For more information:
www.ambx.com

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 9:41 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Have you ordered your copy of Pokemon(R) Mystery Dungeon yet? If so,
great! If not, what are you waiting for? It's the first ever Pokemon
game where you play as an actual Pokemon. If that's not enough to whet
your gaming appetite, Nintendo is offering everyone who pre-orders the
game (by placing a deposit at select retailers) a Pokemon Mystery Dungeon
Rescuer's Guide, featuring a game preview and other Pokemon information.

Pokemon games always sell about a bajillion copies, so you'll want to
order early. Pokemon Mystery Dungeon: Blue Rescue Team plays on the new
Nintendo DS(TM) Lite and Pokemon Mystery Dungeon: Red Rescue Team plays on
Game Boy(R) Advance SP. Both let you play as a Pokemon and talk to other
Pokemon as you encounter randomly generated dungeons and work through the
engaging storyline. Both versions launch Sept. 18 and are Rated E for
Everyone.

Starting Sept. 12, The Official Nintendo Power Player's Guide for Pokemon
Mystery Dungeon will be available at retail. Readers will find all kinds
of helpful information, including in-depth details about all Pokemon and
where they can be found in the game, full walk-throughs of every dungeon
and advanced battle tips.

For more information about the game, visit www.PokemonMysteryDungeon.com

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 9:39 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

A new Nintendo DS game is arriving with the stealth befitting a ninja assassin. Tenchu(R): Dark Secret, made exclusively for Nintendo DS(TM) sneaks up on you -- then grabs you by the throat. Be on your guard because it launches today.

Keep in mind you can't just find a ninja on any old street corner. Thus, it'll take skill and knowledge to obtain Tenchu: Dark Secret. The game, Rated T for Teen, will be available exclusively at GameStop and EB Games stores nationally.

Princess Shizu is a young woman married to a cruel warlord. After an attempt on her life, you must use your ninja skills to play through 40 missions to protect her and reveal her would-be killers. You can strike with a sword, plant secret grenades and even construct your own weapons.

If you're running low on supplies in your single-player missions, connect to Nintendo(R) Wi-Fi Connection, Nintendo's wireless gaming service. There you can meet with friends and strangers to buy, sell and trade important items. The only thing more fun than playing as a ninja is fighting another ninja for supremacy. Just meet with another player on a local wireless connection and match wits until one of you reigns supreme.

For more information about Tenchu: Dark Secret, please visit www.nintendo.com

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 9:35 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

WHAT: Microsoft and Electronic Arts will be joining forces to declare “Maddenoliday” in Madden, Mississippi (pop. 74), on August 22 to celebrate the launch of Madden NFL™ 07 on Xbox 360, the only next generation console available at the beginning of the 2006/07 football season for fans to experience the enhanced and exciting new features of the most popular sports game in the country.

As part of the celebration, NFL greats Jerry Rice, Warren Moon and Marshall Faulk will join the celebration in a small-town ceremony, with more than 1,000 children and parents from surrounding communities expected to be among the first in the country to play Madden NFL 07 on Xbox 360 kiosks.

WHO: The Madden NFL franchise has fast become a cultural phenomenon as the most popular selling sports game in the U.S. Millions of football fans each year, including pro footballers, eagerly wait for the latest version of the game to be released to gain their first taste of the upcoming season and get the closest in-game experience possible beyond actually playing in the NFL. The sheer popularity of the game has come to represent its yearly launch as the unofficial NFL season kick-off – hence the event in Madden.

WHEN: Event is on August 22, from 9:00 – 10 am (Central Time).

WHERE: Madden, MS

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 9:28 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

NEW YORK, NY – August 17, 2006 – 2K Sports, a publishing label of Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. (Nasdaq: TTWO), announced today a new and exciting direction in experiencing the intense action and thrilling drama of an NHL video game with NHL® 2K7’s newest feature, Cinemotion™. Combining new dynamic gameplay camera angle technology, cutscenes, player chatter and unique audio options, Cinemotion truly immerses gamers into the drama of hockey like never before.

“With all of our 2K Sports products, we’re always looking for new ways to enhance and revolutionize the sports video game experience,” stated Greg Thomas, president of Visual Concepts, a 2K Sports studio. “With Cinemotion, we have been able to really take this experience to the next level. Cinemotion creates a completely customizable atmosphere for gamers, introducing several different ways of playing the game in terms of gameplay cameras and music, in addition to other dramatic elements.”

Fans will notice the impact of Cinemotion as soon as the puck drops, as NHL 2K7 features a new dynamic parametric camera angle during gameplay that maximizes the gamer’s vision down the ice. This new camera angle specifically takes advantage of widescreen viewing, giving players the optimal perspective on all that’s happening on the ice. The camera smartly zooms in when there’s intense action along the boards without distracting the gamer. Additionally, gamers will truly appreciate the atmosphere and the character of each NHL arena when using this new Cinemotion camera angle.

The drama of an NHL game is perfectly delivered with cutscenes and player chatter in NHL 2K7. Cinemotion intelligently activates cutscene sequences that are shot from brand new camera angles and perspectives, to include penalty shots, face-offs and scoring. Player chatter adds a new layer of gameplay audio, as players on the ice will shout orders, give encouragement to teammates and react to specific game situations, elevating the drama and excitement.

To fully engross gamers in an all-new NHL experience, sound plays a big part in Cinemotion presentation and users can select between two different sound settings in NHL 2K7. Harry Neale and Bob Cole are back once again to deliver their unique insight and entertaining wit to every game when users select Cinemotion- Commentary. For gamers who want something much different, Cinemotion-Music replaces the commentary with an orchestrated score that dynamically changes with the action throughout every game. With Cinemotion-Music, the score will change based upon the action on the ice to reflect the overall mood. All Cinemotion music options are completely customizable so each user can have their own unique NHL 2K7 experience.

NHL 2K7, the top-rated hockey video game for four-straight years*, is coming in September 2006 to the Xbox 360™ and Xbox® video game and entertainment systems from Microsoft, and the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system; and will be available in holiday 2006 for the PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system**.

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

*According to GameRankings.com average scores of 2003-2006 hockey video games.

** This title has not yet been concept approved for the PlayStation®3 system by Sony Computer Entertainment America.

About Take-Two Interactive Software

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® game console, PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system, Xbox® and Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment systems from Microsoft, Nintendo GameCube™, Nintendo DS™ and Game Boy® 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 10:04 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Los Angeles, Calif. (August 15, 2006) – Square Enix, Inc., the publisher of Square Enix™ interactive entertainment products in North America, announced today that DIRGE of CERBERUS™ – FINAL FANTASY® VII – (DIRGE of CERBERUS) has shipped to retailers across the nation, exclusively for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system. The blockbuster thrill ride from the creators of FINAL FANTASY VII comes fully loaded with all-new features and bonus content created exclusively for North American audiences.

“Creating the first action game in the beloved FINAL FANTASY series has been an exhilarating experience for us,” said Yoshinori Kitase, Producer, Square Enix Co., Ltd. “Because the series, especially FINAL FANTASY VII, has enjoyed such a loyal following, we took special care with the direction for DIRGE of CERBERUS. In addition, we were sensitive to the difference between American and Japanese gamers, and made substantial changes to tailor the game to both regions. We hope the gamers will enjoy this new facet of the franchise and the continuation of the FINAL FANTASY VII legacy.”

Breakout star Vincent Valentine returns in this adrenaline-fueled action game that propels players into the middle of an ongoing conflict that threatens all life on the planet. With his trusty triple-barreled Cerberus in hand, Vincent will shoot, fight and rage his way through the ranks of a menacing uprising – one that must be stopped at all costs. Featuring fast-paced gameplay from renowned producer Yoshinori Kitase and character designs from Tetsuya Nomura, DIRGE of CERBERUS offers a non-stop ride through the exhilarating world of FINAL FANTASY VII.

Numerous enhancements have been implemented in the North American release, including brand-new missions, a retooled camera system, and speedier action to keep up with American gamers. Fans will also have the opportunity to continue the adventure “on the go” with DIRGE of CERBERUS LOST EPISODE™ – FINAL FANTASY VII –, a mobile title set for release this summer.

STORY

Three years have passed since Meteor's devastating attack on the planet. After piecing together their shattered lives, people are terrorized yet again by sudden attacks stemming from a mysterious military organization known as “Deepground.” Before Meteorfall, these soldiers formed one of Shinra's most secret projects — but with the destruction of Midgar, the soldiers left below the town’s smoldering remains were forgotten. Vincent Valentine must now retaliate against this impending threat with his trusty Cerberus in hand.

FEATURES

Ÿ The first action title in the series delivers an entirely new collection of techniques and maneuvers exclusive to the North American release

Ÿ Tweaks and changes bring the game up to speed for North American audiences – faster gameplay, an enhanced camera system and tightened controls provide gamers with a tailor-made experience

Ÿ Extend the adventure with all-new bonus content that includes exclusive missions, character viewer, sound gallery and more

Ÿ Revisit memorable locations and see familiar faces from FINAL FANTASY VII

Ÿ Utilize a variety of weapons and unleash devastating melee combo attacks

Ÿ Customize and upgrade Vincent’s weapons, including handguns and machine guns, with five different varieties of parts that affect power, range, firing rate and more

Ÿ Fully voiced, cutting-edge CG cinematics in the renowned Square Enix style

Ÿ Continue the adventure on the go with the mobile game DIRGE of CERBERUS Lost Episode– FINAL FANTASY VII –

MARKETING AND ADVERTSING SUPPORT

The launch of DIRGE of CERBERUS is supported by an interactive web site that includes a FINAL FANTASY VII tribute section for fans (http://na.square-enix.com/dcff7/). The tribute section includes questions about the plot of FINAL FANTASY VII which unlock footage from the original game when answered correctly, as well as a survey where fans can vote on their most memorable moments in the groundbreaking game.

The program includes a three-week television campaign from August 13 through September 3 on Adult Swim, Comedy Central, Fuel, G4, MTV, MTV2, Spike and WWE, print advertising in the September and October issues of top gaming media, and a unique rich media online campaign with a major presence on 1UP, IGN, Gamespot, GamePro.com, MySpace and UGO.

DIRGE of CERBERUS Lost Episode – FINAL FANTASY VII –

DIRGE of CERBERUS LOST EPISODE – FINAL FANTASY VII – tells the story three years after Meteorfall, where the original FINAL FANTASY VII ended, with Vincent Valentine struggling to

save the world from Deepground, a mysterious army of bloodthirsty warriors. This action role-playing game will take advantage of all mobile gaming has to offer, allowing players to explore a sprawling world in Battlefield mode, and battle with Deepground soldiers in FPS Battle mode. Familiar features from FFVII, such as materia and limit break attacks, can also be used by Vincent to smash his foes.

Be the first to take a revolutionary step in mobile phone gaming! Available exclusively on Amp’d mobile handsets beginning on August 18, 2006. For more information visit www.ampd.com.

DIRGE of CERBERUS LOST EPISODE – FINAL FANTASY VII – was developed by a Square Enix Co., Ltd. team led by Kosei Ito in collaboration with Ideaworks3D Ltd., a BAFTA award-winning mobile games studio headquartered in London (http://www.ideaworks3d.com). For more about information about DIRGE of CERBERUS LOST EPISODE – FINAL FANTASY VII – visit www.sqexm.com/dirge.

DIRGE of CERBERUS is rated “T” for Teen. Please visit the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) Web site at www.esrb.com for more information about ratings. DIRGE of CERBERUS is available at North American retailers for the suggested retail price of $49.99(USD). Additional information on DIRGE of CERBERUS can be found at http://na.square-enix.com/dcff7/.

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 8:49 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

REDWOOD CITY, Calif. – August 16, 2006 – Celebrating five years of EA SPORTS™ Madden Challenge presented by Best Buy, Electronic Arts (Nasdaq: ERTS) announced today the locations and dates for the 2006 EA SPORTS Madden Challenge, the only official EA tournament, to crown the best player of Madden NFL 07, the latest installment of the top-selling football video game franchise in North America. Winners will come from 31 regional competitions.

This year, for the first time, the 2006 EA SPORTS™ Madden Challenge will expand internationally, adding challenges in each of the following countries: Mexico, Canada, United Kingdom, Germany and Hong Kong.

The winners from the 26 U.S. cities and five NFL international tournaments will advance to the Finals, held during Pro Bowl week (week of Feb. 8, 2007) in Honolulu, Hawaii. The winner of the 2006 EA SPORTS Madden Challenge will receive a grand prize package, including a check for $100,000 and the winners of each regional competition will receive $1,000. Last year, 73,000 people attended and 16,000 competed nationwide, but Jarvis Thomas from Upper Marlboro, MD proved he was the best player and took the $100,000 grand prize at the Honolulu finals.

The 2006 EA SPORTS Madden Challenge, presented by Best Buy and sponsored by Microsoft and Sprint, will test the skills of thousands of gamers on Madden NFL 07, on both the Xbox and Xbox 360 consoles. The professional division (consisting of up to 512 competitors at each regional stop) will feature competition on the Xbox® videogame system from Microsoft and a new Xbox 360™ Division (64 competitors at each stop) will feature next-gen play on the Xbox 360 console. The regional winner from each professional division will advance to the finals in Hawaii.

The 2006 EA SPORTS™ Madden Challenge schedule, including five international cities:

DATE

CITY

VENUE

9/1/2006

Denver

Invesco Field

9/3/2006

Minneapolis

MetroDome

9/9/2006

Indianapolis

RCA Dome

9/10/2006

Chicago

Solider Field

9/16/2006

Green Bay

Lambeau Atrium

9/17/2006

Detroit

Ford Field

9/23/2006

Atlanta

Lenox Mall

9/24/2006

New Orleans

Superdome

9/25/2006

New Orleans - MNF

Superdome

9/30/2006

Cincinnati

Newport on the Levee

10/1/2006

Pittsburgh

Heinz Field

10/7/2006

Boston

Gillette Stadium

10/8/2006

Philadelphia

King of Prussia Mall

10/14/2006

New Jersey

Jersey Garden Mall

10/15/2006

New York

Grand Central Station

10/21/2006

Baltimore

M & T Bank Stadium

10/22/2006

Washington DC

Fed Ex Field

10/28/2006

Charlotte

Concord Mills

10/29/2006

Tampa

Raymond James Stadium

11/4/2006

Houston

Reliant Stadium Park

11/5/2006

Dallas

Texas Stadium

11/11/2006

Phoenix

Cardinal Stadium

11/12/2006

San Diego

Qualcomm Stadium

11/18/2006

Los Angeles

Hollywood & Highland

11/19/2006

Oakland

McAfee Coliseum

11/24/2006

Seattle

Qwest Field

11/26/2006

San Francisco

Metreon

1/13/2007

Toronto, Canada

TBD

1/20/2007

Hong Kong, China

EA Experience

1/27/2007

Mexico City, Mexico

TBD

2/4/2007

London, England

Superbash

2/4/2007

Frankfurt, Germany

Commerce Stadium

2/8/2007

Honolulu (Finals)

Pro Bowl

For 2006 EA SPORTS Madden Challenge Tournament information, including Tournament Official Rules and online registration, players can go to the official EA SPORTS Madden Challenge website at www.maddenchallenge.com. Registration is $15 per person. Void where prohibited. Eligibility restrictions apply. Competitors will be registered on a first-come, first-served basis. Walk-in, on-site tournament registration will be accepted on the day of each city’s competition as space permits.

Coming into its 17th year and with more than 51 million copies sold, Madden NFL Football continues to stand out as the most popular sports videogame franchise of all time with a combination of inventive new features and the most authentic football gameplay. Available in stores everywhere on August 22, Madden NFL 07, offers unique player control in the running game like never before. For the first time ever, players can step up as the lead blocker to create a hole and then take control of the tailback and smash through, overpower, or slash away from would-be tacklers as they fight for every yard. Innovative rushing controls give a game-breaking ground attack featuring all-new jukes, cutbacks and the distinct running styles of the league’s favorite backs. Other key features include lead blocker control, NFL Superstar: Hall of Fame mode, Run Like the Players Run with the All-New Highlight stick, Additions to Franchise mode, Team-Specific Defensive Playbooks and Online Play.

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.

Electronic Arts, EA, EA SPORTS, EA SPORTS BIG and POGO are trademarks or registered trademarks of Electronic Arts Inc. in the U. S. and/or other countries. The mark “John Madden” and the name of John Madden are trademarks or other intellectual property of Red Bear, Inc. or John Madden, are subject to license to Electronic Arts Inc., and may not be otherwise used in whole or in part without the prior written consent of Red Bear or John Madden. NFL Team names/logos are trademarks of the teams indicated. All other NFL-related trademarks are trademarks of the National Football League. Officially licensed product of PLAYERS INC. www.nflplayers.com. Microsoft, Xbox and Xbox 360 are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 8:40 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc. announced today that Payout Poker and Casino™, an arcade gambling game for the PSP™ (PlayStation®Portable) system has begun shipping to retail. Developed by Bits Gaming Ltd, Payout Poker and Casino allows players to try their luck in four exclusive gambling destinations, with 14 challenging gaming favorites including Texas Hold ‘Em, Omaha Hold ‘Em, Blackjack, Craps and many more.

Gas up the jet and put the champagne on ice! It’s time to put your gaming skills to the ultimate test. Payout Poker and Casino™ allows you to explore 4 of the world’s most lavish gaming palaces and own a piece of the action. Texas Hold’ em, Omaha, Blackjack, Baccarat, Roulette, Slots, and more…amass wealth beyond your wildest dreams playing 14 of the hottest poker and casino favorites. Deal in your friends and go head-to-head online. Create your own unique High Roller using the vast character customization feature and fine-tune physical features like hair, face and body types, personality types, as well as a wide variety of clothing and accessories. Is Lady Luck on your side?

· Play 14 Casino favorites in 4 of the world’s most exclusive casinos – Texas Hold’em, Omaha, Blackjack, Baccarat, Roulette, Craps, Slots, Wheel of Fortune, and much more!

· Create your own high rolling winner! – Customize your own character with physical features like hair, face and body types as well as a wide variety of clothing and accessories

· Two modes of play – Single Player and Party Play.

· Accessorize your character on wild Casino shopping sprees – spend your winnings on the finest swag at Casino boutiques

· Explore a living Casino – unique 3-D interface allows you to roam the casino floor and choose your favorite game

Payout Poker and Casino is rated T for teen and will retail for $29.99 and most major retailers. For more information visit www.namcobandaigames.com

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 8:36 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Microsoft isn’t bluffing: Gamers can log on to Xbox Live within the first 48 hours after launch and download ‘Texas Hold ‘em’ – completely free of charge! This full-featured poker title for Xbox Live Arcade on Xbox 360 will launch on Wednesday, August 23 at 0800 GMT (1am Pacific). For 48 hours only – Wednesday, August 23 through 0800 GMT (1am Pacific) Friday, August 25 – as a special limited-time only promotion, gamers can download (and own) the game at no charge (for all Xbox Live Gold and Silver members). Starting at 0801 GMT (1:01am Pacific) Friday, August 25, ‘Texas Hold ‘em’ for Xbox Live Arcade will be available for 800 Microsoft Points.

Not only is ‘Texas Hold ’em’ free to all gamers, this title comes equipped with features that can only be found on Xbox 360. Designed to simulate the risk-reward of real poker gameplay, keep gamers honest, and discourage opponents from betting too recklessly, ‘Texas Hold ’em’ has an innovative new feature called Persistent Bankroll. Your virtual bankroll is tied to your Xbox Live Gamertag and keeps a running tally of your chip count. If you lose all of your chips in a poker game, you’ll have to play lower stakes buy-in games to make back your stack and earn your way to the big tables.

‘Texas Hold ’em’ also offers multiplayer support for up to eight gamers, three modes of gameplay (Standard Games, Scenarios and Tournaments), Achievements, extensive online leaderboards and statistics, and high-definition graphics. Enjoy poker night every night with friends, family and gamers around the world (please note that this title may not be available in some countries).

In addition to the exciting release of ‘Texas Hold ’em’ on August 23, gamers can also look forward to new game titles and premium downloadable game content on Xbox Live Arcade Wednesdays from August 16 to September 6, including:

* ‘Cloning Clyde Picture Pack’, the action adventure/puzzle game created by Wahoo Studios/NinjaBee (developer of the popular ‘Outpost Kaloki X’ for Xbox Live Arcade), will have 4 new gamer picture packs available on Xbox Live Marketplace on Wednesday, August 16, allowing gamers to check out more unique pictures of Clyde. Each gamer picture pack: 100 Microsoft Points (each).
* ‘Time Pilot’, the futuristic fighter pilot classic from Konami, lets gamers fight through different eras like never before. High-definition graphics and enhanced gameplay designed specifically for Xbox Live Arcade makes this version even better than the original from 1982. Gamers can download ‘Time Pilot’ on Xbox Live Arcade Wednesday, August 30. Available: 400 Microsoft Points.
* ‘Scramble’, the classic side-scrolling ‘shoot-‘em up’ coin-op title from Konami takes off on Xbox Live Arcade. The 1981 classic, widely considered the first ‘multi-level shooter,’ launches on Xbox Live Arcade Wednesday September 6. Available: 400 Microsoft Points.

All Xbox Live Arcade games can be demoed for free on Xbox Live Marketplace. Check out Xbox Live and Xbox.com for continuing updates on exciting new content available to Xbox 360 gamers. As always, all launch dates are subject to change. Gold subscription is required for multiplayer features. A memory unit or hard drive is required to download content from Xbox Live Marketplace.

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.

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 10:37 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

INDIANAPOLIS, August 15, 2006 – BradyGames, the go-to source for video game strategy, hints and secret codes for the top-selling video games, announced the launch of BradyGames’ Connected Strategy Guides. The new online strategy will complement BradyGames’ printed guides by combining text, audio and video content into an immersive, entertaining and informative resource for gamers and will be available 24/7/365 at www.bradygames.com at no additional cost to the gamer.

The first two titles in the BradyGames’ Connected Strategy Guide line will be 2K’s Prey and THQ Inc.’s Saints RowTM (www.saintsrow.com). Prey will include over half a dozen video strategy guides highlighting boss fights, key battles and solving some of those difficult puzzles as well as featuring several exclusive wallpapers for download. Saints Row will include video strategies for the tough missions and downloadable wallpapers.

“The Connected Strategy Guides will enhance and complement BradyGames’ print and electronic guides and bring strategy to gamers in a new, more powerful way,” said David Waybright, vice president and publisher, BradyGames. “We’re gamers and we know what gamers want! The portability and accessibility of the content allow gamers to view it on multiple platforms including handheld and console gaming systems, and media devices such as the iPod.”

BradyGames’ Connected Strategy Guides enhance the strategy guides by including video, audio or additional strategy features online. These connected, online strategy features will focus on alternative methods of getting through the toughest areas, interviewing developers and designers about design techniques, artistic direction, trouble areas and gameplay features and provide exclusive wallpapers and downloads not featured in a strategy guide. Understanding the dynamic universe of multiplayer gaming, BradyGames’ will arm online community members with strategies and tactics as they progress and their gameplay experience evolves.

BradyGames’ Launches Connected Strategy Guides

“BradyGames is unique in its ability to recognize the areas that are of the toughest or coolest to focus on” continues Waybright. “Talking to a level designer about how they developed some of the tough areas of a game, and linking this to the strategy guide will make the overall experience more informative and entertaining. The addition of video offers a visual advantage to our readers for timing combos perfectly, finding those secret snipe spots on multiplayer maps or getting through those trouble spots that you just need to see in action in order to understand.”

About BradyGames:

Headquartered in Indianapolis, BradyGames creates high-quality video game strategy guides including the #1-selling guides for both PC and console games. The company also produces Signature Series and Limited Edition guides. The BradyGames Web site, www.bradygames.com, is the ultimate online source for video game strategy. The site features BradyGames news, strategy guide updates and the company's new Strategy E-Guides. BradyGames is an imprint of Dorling Kindersley within the Penguin division of Pearson plc (NYSE: PSO).

About THQ

THQ Inc. (NASDAQ: THQI) is a leading worldwide developer and publisher of interactive entertainment software. The company develops its products for all popular game systems, personal computers and wireless devices. Headquartered in Los Angeles County, California, THQ is a top producer of original intellectual properties including titles such as Destroy All Humans!®, Juiced™, MX vs ATV and Titan Quest™ as well as the upcoming Saints Row™ and Company of Heroes™. More information about THQ and its products may be found at www.thq.com and www.thqwireless.com. THQ, THQ Wireless, Volition, Inc., Company of Heroes, Destroy All Humans!, Juiced, MX vs. ATV, Saints Row, Titan Quest, and their respective logos are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of THQ Inc.

About Saints Row

In Saints Row, players start as a member of the 3rd Street Saints. Under constant threat from rival gangs and corrupt officials, the city of Stilwater must be conquered one district at a time. Saints Row starts with a bang and never slows down, offering an unparalleled level of character and vehicle customization and the freedom to progress through the game any way the player chooses. Every action taken in the fully dynamic world is an opportunity for players to earn respect. With enough respect, the city evolves into a giant playground for the player to traverse. Saints Row is revolutionizing the open world genre with an online multiplayer experience, allowing players to battle it out against rival gangs online for the first time. The game will support 12 players on Xbox Live® online entertainment network. More information about Saints Row can be found at http://www.saintsrow.com.

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 8:18 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(SAN FRANCISCO, CA) - You wouldn’t pay to watch TV, visit most web sites, or listen to the radio, so why should entertainment on your mobile phone cost you money? Paying to download games to your mobile phone has just become passé this summer with the launch of GameJump.com. GameJump.com offers games that run the gamut: from casino games to puzzle games to shoot ‘em up games (involving some with aliens and one involving beer). Simply put, GameJump.com gives great games for free, and consumers who pay to play are losing out.

Until now, mobile games typically cost from $4 to $12 per download, often leaving customers surprised by high charges on their month-end phone bills. GameJump.com is providing its mobile games free of charge with a business model that relies on advertisers to offset costs. Similar to Internet gaming and media sites, advertisers place full-screen branded ‘wraps’ around games from GameJump.com. Advertisers win a new hands-on interactive medium to reach consumers that are engaged and playing games up to 20 minutes at a time, while the consumers enjoy the fun of playing games for free.

“We’ve shaken up the existing model for pay-to-play mobile games and introduced a way for everyone who owns a mobile phone to access and play games for free through our ad-supported network,” said Michael Chang, CEO and co-founder of GameJump.com and its parent company Greystripe, Inc. “By taking a percentage of the advertising revenue, we can offer a wide collection of popular mobile games.”

With a variety of over 75 new, branded and classic games, GameJump.com provides advertisers with a demographic reach for all ages. Action games include Pirates Ahoy, Ghost Hunter RPG, and Adventure Boy in Zooloo Land. Puzzle games include Sudoku, Bubble Trouble, Capjong, Spellboys and Brick Annoyed. Casino games include Slot Machine, BlackJack and Texas Hold’em Poker. Sports games include: racing games Bert Longin Porsche, High Octane World Rally and MotoMania; soccer games Futi and Penalty Shot; golf games Mini Golf and Golf Club; and boardsport games Flowboarding and Jan Michaelis Snowboarding. All ages games include Amy’s Adventure, Ancient Ruins 1, 2 and 3, Kid Paddle, Townsmen 1, 2 and 3 and Townsmen Racing. More games are being added every week.

Customers can directly download these games and more from the GameJump.com website. When browsing the web through the phone customers can also access the GameJump site at http://gjmp.tw. The games are compatible with most handsets and carriers worldwide. While the games are free from GameJump.com, carriers may charge for data usage fees to download the games and ads as well as for receiving text messages when download links are sent via SMS.

About Gamejump.com

GameJump.com, part of Greystripe Inc.’s mobile advertising network, provides free mobile games to consumers of all ages. GameJump.com benefits consumers, game publishers, and mobile advertisers alike. Publishers are able to grow their distribution by offering their games for free while deriving revenue via advertising. Advertisers are particularly attracted to the new medium for its reach, demographic and geographic targeting, measurability, and high recall and conversion rates. Consumers receive free content along with engaging creative formats. GameJump is uniquely positioned, as research shows that consumers are strongly receptive to both in-game advertising and ad-subsidized mobile content. Industry analysts project that mobile advertising will be a billion dollar market by the end of the decade.

For more information about GameJump.com visit www.gamejump.com

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 8:10 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)

San Francisco, Calif. – August 10, 2006 – Eidos Interactive Ltd, one of the world’s leading publishers and developers of entertainment software today announced that it has partnered with Ford Motor Company and Empire Interactive to bring Ford Bold Moves Street Racing to North America this fall 2006 for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, Xbox® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and Windows.

Ford Bold Moves Street Racing delivers players a chance to race 18 officially licensed high performance Ford vehicles from the classic 1968 Mustang GT to the new scorching hot 2007 Shelby GT500. With plans to make the title affordable enough for every gamer to own, Ford Street Racing is still pushing boundaries by delivering unique features such as the trademarked Maximum Team Control™ that allows players to switch on-the-fly between a team of three vehicles to dominate a race. A progressive damage system also adds a new element of realism to the game, allowing every hit your vehicle takes to affect the appearance, performance and drivability of the vehicle.

“Eidos is excited about being part of Ford’s multinational marketing campaign,” said David Bamberger, US Marketing Manager, Eidos. “New innovative features like Maximum Team Control™ coupled with the best high performance vehicles Ford has to offer ensures appeal to hardcore and casual gamers alike.”

"We are pleased to be able to partner with Eidos for the fourth game in the multi-million selling Ford Racing franchise. The combination of the innovative Maximum Team Control™ feature and the aspirational, high performance Ford vehicles marks a significant step forward for Ford games,” said Ian Higgins, CEO of Empire Interactive.

Developed by Razorworks, Empire Interactive’s internal development studio, Ford Bold Moves Street Racing will be available in North America this fall 2006 for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, Xbox® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and Windows.

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 8:23 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

New York, NY – August 10, 2006 – 2K Sports, a publishing label of Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. (Nasdaq: TTWO), today announced the reuniting of legendary hip hop act, A Tribe Called Quest, to headline the first leg of the 2nd Annual 2K Sports Bounce Tour in 15 cities. This marks A Tribe Called Quest’s first tour in over half a decade. In addition to headlining the tour, an exclusive track from the group will appear on the upcoming ‘Dan The Automator Presents 2K7’ soundtrack with Phife Dawg appearing as a playable character. Joining A Tribe Called Quest on this historic national tour is Rhymefest.

Comprised of Phife Dawg, Q-Tip, and Ali Shaheed Muhammad, A Tribe Called Quest is known as one of the most intelligent and artistic rap groups of the ‘90s with four solid albums and a string of hip-hop classics prior to their 1998 break-up. This heavily anticipated reunion marks one of the top hip-hop happenings of the year.

“I’m excited for me and my group to be a part of the 2K Sports Bounce Tour,” said Phife from A Tribe Called Quest. “It’s a win-win situation for Tribe because we get to be a part of such a dope game, and we get to reach out and touch our fans in these 15 cities. I couldn't ask for a better opportunity. Also, I’m excited because everyone knows I am a sports nut, so being down with the game and also being a character in the game is crazy to me.”

The 2nd Annual 2K Bounce Tour is the latest addition to 2K Sports’ series of annual live events that bridge hip-hop, sports and video game culture by featuring renowned music artists, sports gaming kiosks, projection vignettes and celebrity and professional athlete appearances. The tour will take place in more than a dozen top markets throughout the month of September, with details posted at http://2ksports.com/go/bounce/.

Tour Dates (first leg):

Sept 8 - Las Vegas NV

Sept 9 - Berkeley CA

Sept 10 - Los Angeles CA

Sept 13 - Denver CO

Sept 15 - Chicago IL

Sept 16 - Milwaukee WI

Sept 17 - Toronto ON

Sept 20 - Baltimore MD

Sept 22 - Washington DC

Sept 23 - Atlanta GA

Sept 24 - Lake Buena Vista FL

Sept 28 - Atlantic City NJ

Sept 29 - Worcester MA

Oct 1 - Sayreville NJ

Oct 5 – TBA, NY

“After The Roots headlined last year’s Bounce Tour, we knew we had to raise the bar even further,” said Tim Rosa, director of brand and lifestyle marketing for 2K Sports. “We jumped on the opportunity to reunite the legendary A Tribe Called Quest, whose positive vibe and innovative style meshed perfectly with the 2K Sports brand.”

In addition to touring to support 2K Sports’ upcoming basketball game, A Tribe Called Quest will have an exclusive new Dan the Automator remix of the classic “Lyrics to Go” on the ‘Dan the Automator Presents 2K7’ soundtrack. Phife Dawg also appears as a playable character in the game’s Street mode alongside a host of other rap stars. By putting A Tribe Called Quest on the road, on the soundtrack and in the game, 2K Sports continues to have the deepest music integration campaign on the market.

For more information about the 2nd Annual 2K Sports Bounce Tour, log onto http://2ksports.com/go/bounce/

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 8:21 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)

SAN FRANCISCO – August 1, 2006 – Have a sweet tooth for casual games? Leading publisher PlayFirst has the perfect fix: Sweetopia™, the new downloadable game from the artfully-innovative developer PiEyeGames. Launching today on PlayFirst.com, Sweetopia delivers a sure-fire sugar rush, taking players on a fast-paced, candy-popping adventure through a mysterious, labyrinthine candy factory.

“Sweetopia is packed with plenty of candy-blasting action, mouth-watering visuals and delectable audio to satisfy any casual game craving,” said Kenny Dinkin, vice president and executive producer, PlayFirst. “We’re thrilled to indulge PlayFirst’s community of players with this beautifully done title and add it to our growing portfolio of top-notch casual games.”

In the game, players join Kate and her sidekick, John, as they prepare for the grand reopening of the mysterious and magical Sweetopia Candy Factory following a 20 year closure. But suddenly something in the factory goes dreadfully awry! Sweetopia’s latest sweet sensation becomes a candy catastrophe – a bad batch of Sherbet Sizzlers has explosive potential! To stop the volatile Sherbet Sizzlers from colliding, players must help Kate blast away crazy confections, like Banana Bangs and Marshmallow Melts, to safely return her beloved candy factory to the Sweetopia it once was.

Now available on PlayFirst.com, Sweetopia is free to try for 60 minutes or purchase for $19.95. To download Sweetopia, please visit http://www.playfirst.com/game/sweetopia.

About PlayFirst, Inc.

PlayFirst is a leading publisher of highly-original games made for casual gamers wherever they play. Committed to fostering creativity, PlayFirst works with talented internal and external developers to bring innovative games to multiple platforms, including PC, Mac, mobile and handheld. PlayFirst's portfolio of games includes the top-selling hit Diner Dash™, which has more than 100 million plays worldwide. Founded in 2004, PlayFirst is funded by Mayfield Fund, Trinity Ventures and Rustic Canyon Partners. For more information visit www.playfirst.com.

Sweetopia, Diner Dash, PlayFirst, and the PlayFirst logo are trademarks of PlayFirst, Inc. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 8:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

SAN FRANCISCO (August 10, 2006) – SEGA of America, Inc. today announced that the SEGA Genesis Collection for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system and the PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system will be available at retail this fall. SEGA Genesis Collection will be the most comprehensive gathering of classic SEGA products ever assembled; with over 30 titles in one compilation.

“SEGA has always been, and will continue to be, an innovator of gaming technologies,” said Scott A. Steinberg, Vice President of Marketing, SEGA of America, Inc. “The Genesis was the first 16-bit gaming system released in 1989, setting a new standard for gaming hardware technology for years to come. SEGA Genesis Collection will take gamers back to experience the golden age of gaming during the 1990s.”

Developed by Backbone Entertainment, SEGA Genesis Collection features over 30 titles including, Altered Beast™, Sonic The Hedgehog™, Shinobi III™, Phantasy Star™, and the original SEGA Genesis version of Golden Axe™. The games in the collection have been reproduced with the utmost accuracy to the originals as possible. SEGA Genesis Collection also features numerous unlockable items that delve into the soul of the Genesis including interviews with the original developers that created the games featured in the collection, a museum area with interesting facts about the games, a hint area to help gamers complete their favorite SEGA Genesis games, and SEGA arcade games from the Genesis era. SEGA Genesis Collection for the PSP system marks the hand held debut of numerous titles in the collection. The PSP system’s wireless function will for the first time ever, allow Genesis fans to connect with friends for a wireless multiplayer gaming experience.

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 2:37 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Huntington Beach, California – August 9, 2006 – Zero G Games is happy to announce that they have completed development of Yahoo! Chess, which is now live on Yahoo! Games, the leading game portal for casual games. Yahoo! Chess is a multiplayer, cross-platform, game, allowing players on either a PC or mobile phone to play together. The large community of chess players on the Yahoo! network will make it easy to find the perfect opponent, regardless of the player’s skill level or device used for access. Zero G Games developed the PC game in Flash and this is the first instance of the use of Flash in a multiplayer game on the Yahoo! network. In addition, Zero G is continuing development on an interactive TV offering of chess, which will be fully integrated with both the web and the mobile versions.

"Zero G Games did a wonderful job with a complex product, and we are extremely pleased to offer flash Chess to our extensive game community,” said Cynthia Woll, executive producer, Yahoo! Games. “They are skilled at all aspects of multiplayer game technology, and they have the know-how to create compelling applications.

Zero G Games is a recognizable leader in Flash and web game development. From building online game brands to introducing new functionality for a client's product, Zero G Games provides award-winning design, user interface, and technology solutions for both web and television.

“Yahoo! is the most popular game destination on the internet and Yahoo! Chess is recognized globally drawing gamers from all corners of the world,” said Mark Lowe, CEO of Zero G Games. “We are thrilled to have worked with Yahoo! to launch this game and believe it will be a huge success for their Games property.”

About Yahoo! Games
Yahoo! Games (http://games.yahoo.com) is the leading destination for online games with one of the largest game communities on the Internet. Millions of new users and gamers of all types visit Yahoo! Games each month to play and to discover the best in games. Yahoo! Games also gives hard core video gamers what they want, from the latest game news, cheats, tips, previews and other exclusive game information, to helping them easily connect with friends to play their favorite multiplayer games.

About Zero G Games
Zero G Games (http://corp.zeroggames.com) is a leading developer of
casual games on many platforms including web, ICTV, IPTV, and download. The Zero G Games team has assisted some of the world's most recognizable online game destinations and communities to successfully execute their online strategies. Zero G Games is a wholly owned company based in Huntington Beach, CA.

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 7:49 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

LONDON & SAN FRANCISCO (August 8th, 2006) – SEGA Europe Ltd and SEGA of America Inc., are proud to announce NHL™: Eastside Hockey Manager™ 2007 for the PC and Mac. Developed by Sports Interactive, creators of the acclaimed Football Manager™ series, NHL™: Eastside Hockey Manager™ 2007 will be available exclusively via digital download from www.eastsidehockeymanager.net from September 22nd 2006 across Europe and America.

NHL™: Eastside Hockey Manager™ 2007 is an aut