Game On!

=0A =0AEA=92S MUSIC SOUNDTRACK TO THE OFFICIAL =0A=0A UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAG=
UE 2006-2007 VIDEOGAME =0A=0A SETS THE STAGE FOR SOCCER GLORY =0A=0A =
=0A=0A Redwood City, Calif., February 28, 2007 =96 Turn up the music, r=
aise your hands and voices and join the celebration! Electronic Arts (NASD=
AQ: ERTS) today revealed the 11 songs that will set the stage for Europe =
=92s most prestigious club soccer tournament, the UEFA Champions League=99=
. EA celebrates the passion soccer fans have for their club teams with ad=
renaline-pumping music that forms the backdrop for the classic rivalries i=
n-game and enables players to win glory for their club teams in UEFA Champ=
ions League=99 2006-2007, the only officially licensed videogame of the to=
urnament. =0A=0A =0A=0A =93The UEFA Champions League is an action-p=
acked tournament that brings out the passion soccer fans have for their fa=
vorite club,=94 said Steve Schnur, Worldwide Executive of Music and Marketi=
ng at EA. =93Fans are taken on an emotional roller coaster as they follo=
w their team through the ups and downs of the tournament and this is the s=
pirit that we wanted to capture for the in-game soundtrack in the official=
UEFA Champions League 2006-2007 videogame. We have assembled an exhilarat=
ing collection of music from around the world that guarantees there=92s so=
mething for everyone.=94=0A=0A =0A=0A Through mass, global exposure to=
soccer fans, the following 11 songs will become synonymous with the offic=
ial UEFA Champions League 2006-2007 videogame worldwide. =0A=0A =0A=0A =
=0A=0A ARTIST =0A=0A SONG=0A=0A =
ALBUM=0A=0A Andy Caldwell feat. Gina Rene=
=0A=0A Runaway=0A=0A Universal Truth=0A=0A =
Ba=EFkonour=0A=0A Jain Rock=0A=0A =
Topo Gigio vs. Ba=EFkonour=0A=0A Bonobo feat. =
Bajka=0A=0A Nightlite=0A=0A Days To Come=
=0A=0A Brazilian Girls=0A=0A Le Te=
rritoire=0A=0A Talk To La Bomb=0A=0A Cal =
Tjader=0A=0A Mambo Mindoro (Hex Hector Remix)=0A=0A =
Explorations=0A=0A Champion=0A=0A Two =
Hoboes=0A=0A Chill' em all=0A=0A Os=
unlade=0A=0A Two Phish=0A=0A Aquarian M=
oon=0A=0A Ray Barretto=0A=0A Work Song (T=
hievery Corporation Remix)=0A=0A Explorations=0A=0A =
Thunderball feat. Miss Johnna M.=0A=0A Chicac=
hiquita=0A=0A Cinescope=0A=0A Uneaq=0A=0A =
Pico de Gallo=0A=0A Only You=0A=0A =
Yunus G=FCvenen =0A=0A Indigo=0A=0A Lay=
ered Sounds 2=0A=0A =0A=0A =0A=0A The Xbox 360=99 video game =
and entertainment system version of the title introduces a new way to play=
this beautiful game by introducing a unique and collectable virtual card =
system in the Ultimate Team mode that enables you to assemble your ultimat=
e team. Using collectable virtual cards, players can hand-pick everything =
from your players and staff members to your match strategy and stadium. No=
w you can build your dream team by going online to collect or trade virtua=
l player, staff and gameplay cards. To experience this unique gameplay mod=
e visit Xbox Marketplace in March to download a demo featuring Ultimate =
Team Barcelona against Arsenal.=0A=0A =0A=0A Play the official UEFA Cha=
mpions League 2006-2007 videogame the traditional way on all available pla=
tforms as your favorite club team from qualification right through to a vi=
rtual reproduction of the UEFA Champions League Final. Re-create or custom=
ize the real-world groupings of the official UEFA Champions League tournam=
ent by taking control of a huge selection of clubs. Plus, the new UEFA Cha=
mpions League Challenge will test even the most hardcore soccer fan by rec=
reating classic moments in UEFA Champions League history using modern team=
s. =0A=0A =0A=0A The official UEFA Champions League 2006-2007 videogam=
e is developed under the EA SPORTS=99 brand by EA Canada in Vancouver , B=
.C. It is scheduled to ship world wide March 20, 2007 on the Xbox 360=99, =
PlayStation=AE2 computer entertainment system, and the PSP=AE (PlayStation=
=AE Portable) system, and on PC in Europe . It will also be available on t=
he mobile platform in Europe in April. The game is rated =93E=94 (Everyo=
ne) by the ESRB and 3+ by PEGI. Screenshots can be downloaded at http://in=
fo.ea.com.=0A=0A =0A=0A ###=0A=0A About Electronic Arts Electron=
ic Arts Inc. (EA), headquartered in Redwood City , California , is the w=
orld's leading interactive entertainment software company. Founded in 1982,=
the company develops, publishes, and distributes interactive software wor=
ldwide for videogame systems, personal computers, cellular handsets and th=
e Internet. Electronic Arts markets its products under four brand names: E=
A SPORTSTM, EATM, EA SPORTS BIGTM and POGOTM. In fiscal 2006, EA posted r=
evenue 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. =0A =0A=0A =
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 coun=
tries. Official licensed product of UEFA Champions League. UEFA and all i=
ts competition logos and names are registered trademarks of UEFA and are u=
sed herein with the permission of UEFA. These trademarks may not be reprod=
uced without the prior written permission of UEFA. All rights are reserved=
. Microsoft, Xbox, Xbox 360 and Xbox LIVE are trademarks of the Microsoft=
group of companies. =93PlayStation=94 and PSP are registered trademarks =
of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. All other trademarks are the property =
of their respective owners.=0A=0A=0A=0A=0A

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SIMCITY DS OFFERS CITY BUILDING EXPERIENCE ON THE GO=0A=0A TO FANS AROUN=
D THE WORLD=0A=0A =0A=0A TOKYO, Japan =96 February 28, 2007 =96 Elec=
tronic Arts (Nasdaq: ERTS) announced today that SimCity=99 franchise is ret=
urning with SimCity=99 DS, developed especially for the Nintendo DS=99 plat=
form. In addition to creating and growing their very own pocket sized city=
while being on-the-go, players will be able to leverage the unique action =
features of the Nintendo DS system, discovering an entirely new way to play=
this internationally acclaimed franchise. The product will make its debut=
to consumers worldwide in summer of this year.=0A=0A =0A=0A True to =
the SimCity series, players will be able to create and control their city i=
n the palm of their hands=85and much more. Maximizing the stylus and built=
-in microphone controls of the Nintendo DS, SimCity DS brings to the franch=
ise like never before the feeling of personal involvement with your city=97=
from blowing into the microphone to put out fires in the city to signing of=
f on mayoral proclamations with your stylus. By enabling the players to co=
mmunicate with each other, the =93wireless data exchange=94 feature brings =
additional interactivity into the game. As an added bonus to SimCity fans =
around the world, the game also offers a wide array of recognizable interna=
tional landmarks to spice up your city. =0A=0A =0A=0A =93We are very=
excited to bring the SimCity experience to the Nintendo DS platform,=94 sa=
id Takahiro Murakami, Producer of SimCity DS. =93The unique Nintendo DS fu=
nctionalities inspired us to incorporate many new features to delight the m=
ost dedicated SimCity fans. The game is filled with fun surprises that will=
appeal to new and existing fans of the franchise.=94=0A=0A =0A=0A =
###=
=0A=0A About Electronic Arts Electronic Arts Inc. (EA), headquartered i=
n Redwood City , California , is the world's leading interactive entertain=
ment software company. Founded in 1982, the company develops, publishes, an=
d distributes interactive software worldwide for videogame systems, persona=
l computers, cellular handsets and the Internet. Electronic Arts markets it=
s products under four brand names: EA SPORTSTM, EATM, EA SPORTS BIGTM and P=
OGOTM. 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. =0A =0A=0A Electronic Arts, EA, EA SPORTS, EA SPORTS B=
IG, POGO and SimCity are trademarks or registered trademarks of Electronic =
Arts Inc. in the U.S. and/or other countries. Nintendo DS is a trademark o=
f Nintendo. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owner=
s. =0A=0A =0A=0A =0A=0A =0A=0A=0A=0A=0A=0A=0A

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=0A=0AMEDIA ALERT: FEBRUARY 28, 2007 =96 Today Ubisoft, one of the world's =
largest video game publishers, is pleased to announce that Tom Clancy's Gho=
st Recon Advanced Warfighter =AE 2, the follow up to the massively popular =
squad-based action franchise, and next gen smash hit of 2006, has officiall=
y gone gold. Tom Clancy's Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter =AE 2 for the Xbo=
x 360(TM) video game and entertainment system from Microsoft will be availa=
ble in retail stores on Thursday, March 8th. =0A=0ATo celebrate this great =
news we also reveal the full list of achievements that gamers will battle t=
o earn in the upcoming Tom Clancy's Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter =AE 2 f=
or the Xbox 360(TM). From the single player campaign, to multiplayer advers=
arial, even down to the amazing co-op campaign=85if you want to earn those =
gamer points, they are all here! Brush up on your skills, because the list =
runs deep. Check below for a link to download the full list of Achievements=
and their respective symbols. =0A=0AWe also reveal special piece of info t=
oday, only available in this package of materials. GRAW 2 will offer an in-=
game Achievements tracking menu for all multiplayer Achievements. Ever wond=
er how many more caps you have to peel until you unlock that next achieveme=
nt? Well, wonder no more, in GRAW 2 you can simply jump into the Achievemen=
ts tracking menu and you can accurately see your progress towards each of t=
he individual Multiplayer Achievements! Sweet! =0A=0A=0AFor more informatio=
n about Tom Clancy's Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter =AE 2 please visit htt=
p://ghostrecon.us.ubi.com/graw2/=0A=0A=0A=0A=0A=0A

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SAMURAI WARRIORS®2 EMPIRES SHIPS TO NORTH AMERICAN RETAILERS
KOEI’s Tactical Action Video Game for Xbox 360(tm) and PlayStation®2 is
Available in Stores Beginning Today

Burlingame, CA -- February 28, 2007 -- KOEI, recognized worldwide as the
premier brand of strategy and action games, today announced that SAMURAI
WARRIORS®2 EMPIRES has shipped. The Tactical Action game set in Feudal
Japan is available starting today for both the Xbox 360(tm) video game
and entertainment system from Microsoft and the PlayStation®2 computer
entertainment system.

About SAMURAI WARRIORS 2 EMPIRES

SAMURAI WARRIORS 2 EMPIRES combines the most exciting aspects of Action,
Fighting and Strategy games. At the start of the game Feudal Japan is
divided into warring states and it is up to the player to resurrect a
nation using equal amounts of strategy and strength! The game’s ultimate
goal is to unite Japan’s 25 regions into a single nation under one
ruler. Prior to each battle, the player will meet with their war council
to discuss military and political affairs; then it’s time for combat.

SAMURAI WARRIORS 2 EMPIRES is the first in KOEI’s successful line of
“Empires” games to be set in Japan. Accordingly, the game’s deck of 90
policy cards, used to issue military commands and impose political
policies, is boosted by 50 new cards inspired by Japanese history, while
all-new formation cards are based on historically-authentic samurai
attack formations.

Special events in the game chronicle major turning points in Japan’s
history including “The Honnōji Incident” where the powerful warlord Oda
Nobunaga, met his demise, and “The Battle of Kawanakajima,” considered
the largest and most prolonged encounter of the Warring States era.

Key product features include vicious multi-Musou attacks with up to four
officers, 5 “Unification” scenarios plus 6 “Regional” scenarios, over
400 playable characters to choose from, a create your own warrior mode,
as well as 2-player co-op play.

Developed by KOEI’s award-winning internal team, Omega Force, SAMURAI
WARRIORS 2 EMPIRES is rated “T” (Teen – Alcohol Reference, Mild
Language, Mild Suggestive Themes, and Violence) by the ESRB. SAMURAI
WARRIORS 2 EMPIRES for Xbox 360 is compatible with 720p/1080i/1080p
HDTV, and features in game Dolby® Digital audio. Media can find assets
at gamespress.com.

About KOEI Corporation

KOEI Corporation, the North American subsidiary of KOEI Co., Ltd. of
Japan, established operations in 1988. Based in the San Francisco Bay
Area, the company is recognized as a leading content provider in the
highly competitive video game industry.

KOEI is respected worldwide as the premier brand for Strategy and
Simulation games, and is the innovator of the Tactical Action genre. The
company's Dynasty Warriors® series has generated more than 9 million
units in sales worldwide since its first release for the PlayStation
game console in 1997.

KOEI develops, publishes, and distributes interactive software worldwide
for video game systems and personal computers. For fiscal 2005, KOEI
posted worldwide revenues of $223 million. KOEI maintains operations in
Japan, the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Canada, China,
Korea, Taiwan, Singapore and Lithuania. The company constantly seeks the
fine balance between entertainment, technology, art and education. More
information about KOEI game products can be found online at koei.com.

###

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/**/*_/Co-branded Pogo Games Channel on iVillage Will Cater /_*

*_/to the 34 MM Women Playing Games Online///_*

*Redwood City**, Calif & New York, NY, *� *February 28, 2007* � If you
haven't heard of /Poppit!�/ yet, it's time to get your game on.
Electronic Arts Inc (NASDAQ: ERTS, the world�s leading interactive
entertainment company, and iVillage, a division of NBC Universal and the
leading online destination for women, today announced that the two
companies have joined forces to create a co-branded Games Channel that
will live on iVillage.com and be fueled by EA�s Pogo.com�. The
partnership brings entertainment and stress relief through casual online
games to women across America. Starting today, anyone looking for a few
minutes or a few hours of online leisure activity can visit
http://games.ivillage.com to find Pogo�s simple-to-learn puzzle, word
and card games, including /Poppit!/, a wildly popular favorite of female
gamers. Through this unique relationship, Pogo.com becomes the exclusive
casual games provider to the 16 million iVillage.com members.

Pogo.com brings its powerhouse suite of casual
online game titles such as /Poppit!/,/ First Class Solitaire/, /Word
Whomp!�/, /Hearts, Spades /and/ /its premium gaming service,/ Club
Pogo�,/ to iVillage, adding an entertaining and exciting roster of free
casual games to iVillage�s existing line-up of channels, including
Health, Wellness, Diet & Fitness, Pregnancy & Parenting, Beauty & Style,
Home & Food and others.

ComScore MediaMetrix (December 06) reports that 39% of women online
visit gaming sites and women spend 83M hours playing games. This
compares to 63M hours spent on Google and 47M hours spent on Yahoo!
instant messenger. Pogo is the number one gaming site with women 25 � 54.

Nancy Smith, Executive Vice President of Pogo commented, �We couldn�t be
happier to be teaming up with iVillage. Not only do we share an audience
demographic, but we share a passion for women�s issues and a belief that
interactive entertainment is a great way to stay connected, stay sharp
and keep a healthy mind. This relationship will allow us to reach even
more women than ever before."

�The number of women playing games online has clearly exploded and, as
the leading destination for women online, we knew it was time for us to
carve out a space where our members could play to their heart�s
content,� said Ezra Kucharz, COO, iVillage Properties. �Pogo is the
biggest player in the industry and the perfect partner for us as we dive
into gaming.�//

iVillage members will be invited to participate in monthly game nights
on the new Games Channel, where they�ll interact with other Pogo users.
Members will also be given two-week passes to try out Club Pogo for free.

For more information on Pogo games, visit *www.pogo.com
*.

* *

* *

*About Pogo.com*

Pogo.com is the #1 online game destination for casual gaming*. Boasting
a wide variety of more than 75 free online games including puzzle
,
word
,
casino
,
classic card

and board
,
Pogo.com features both single-player and multiplayer games. The site
offers players an easy-to-use chat feature where millions of people talk
about their favorite games, best scores, or simply share stories about
their lives. With over 14 million users a month, Pogo.com is known for
its thriving online community of players who forge life-long friendships
through the site. Pogo.com�s premium service, Club Pogo, offers players
a variety of VIP features including exclusive games, no ad
interruptions, private chat and avatars. Club Pogo has over 1.4 million
paying subscribers

* According to ComScore Dec 06.

*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, cellular
handsets and the Internet. Electronic Arts markets its products under
four brand names: EA SPORTS^TM , EA^TM , EA SPORTS BIG^TM and POGO^TM .
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, POGO, POGO.com, Club
Pogo, Poppit!, Word Whomp and The Sims are trademarks or registered
trademarks of Electronic Arts Inc. in the U.S and/or other countries.
All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

* *

*About iVillage Inc.:*

iVillage Inc., a division of NBC Universal, is the first and largest
media company dedicated exclusively to connecting women at every stage
of their lives. Ranked the #1 online destination for women with 16
million unique visitors (comScore MediaMetrix), iVillage.com offers an
authentic community infused with compelling content from experts on
parenting, pregnancy, beauty, style, fitness, relationships, food and
entertainment. The site's interactive features, including thousands of
message boards and blogs, allow women around the world to connect, share
ideas, and seek advice and support about everything from fertility to
fashion.

Established in 1995, iVillage's brand extensions include iVillage
Limited in the UK, iVillage Parenting Network, iVillage Total Health and
owned sites Astrology.com, gURL.com and GardenWeb. The company, acquired
by NBC Universal, Inc. in May 2006, is based in New York.

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I found out from my web analytics solution, VisiStat, that my Are Gamers Antisocial or Do Games Make Them Antisocial has been linked to from all over the web. It's really interesting to read what other bloggers think of my idea that games are being designed to make us sit alone and play.

Here's a partial listing of others and what they have to say about the topic:

Gamedev.TW
Joystiq.com
Nerd NYC
AGFC
WOWinsider
Warcry
http://www.bildirgec.org

And this is my favorite, a technology ethics class linking to my post:
http://ethics.csc.ncsu.edu/social/technoharm

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 9:06 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

*(Chicago, ILLINOIS):* - Interzone Entertainment, developer and
publisher of massively multiplayer online games, today announced that it
has chosen the BigWorld Technology Suite as the game development
platform for its upcoming MMOG title.

Interzone Entertainment COO, Robert Spencer commented, �BigWorld is
clearly leading the field, with a proven technology and tools solution
that allows us to hit the ground running. With the BigWorld Technology
already in place, we are free to concentrate on what we do best, develop
compelling worlds with innovative and exciting gameplay.�

�Interzone is a unique brand that is trying to accomplish something
genuinely different in the online space,� said Gavin Longhurst, Director
of Business Development of BigWorld. �Our integrated approach provides
them all the tools required to get a game, complete with a server and
related online components, built in and train in a very short period of
time, leaving more time to polish content and game play.�

About the BigWorld Technology Suite

Comprised of the BigWorld Server, Content Creation Tools, 3D Client
Engine, Live Management Tools & Instrumentation - the BigWorld
Technology Suite is the complete MMOG solution, providing all of the
difficult technology required to produce an engaging next-generation MMOG.

About BigWorld Pty Ltd

BigWorld Pty Ltd was formed in 2002 to commercialise years of intense
R&D, which started in 1999 and continues to this day. BigWorld Pty Ltd
is a privately held company based in Australia that licenses its
BigWorld Technology Suite middleware platform to game studios around the
world that are looking to produce successful next generation Massively
Multiplayer Online Games and Online Social Worlds.

BigWorld Website

http://www.bigworldtech.com

About Interzone Games

Interzone is a Publisher of massively multiplayer online games for a
global audience.

Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, Interzone is in the process of
establishing internal studios around the world to actively develop our
range of innovative virtual worlds.

Our acquisition team is constantly pursuing leading-edge MMO
technologies to enhance our existing and future projects. Our production
team is focused on producing powerful game experiences, rich and
compelling story lines, captivating visuals and soundscapes and truly
engaging gameplay. Interzone as a whole is committed to fulfilling
expectations, and bringing a genuinely different kind of gaming to our
customers around the globe.

**

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I've been busy lately trying to add some functionality to this blog. I recently learned an awful lot about cgi/perl and now I can post to Game On! by email. This may not sound like a big deal, but it is. I get a lot of email with news and press releases. The old way involved cutting and pasting from the email into the blog and then rebuilding the blog. That could take a considerable amount of time. So I found a script called Meow , downloaded it, modified it to meet my needs, and that now handles picking up the email from an account, parsing the text, and entering it into the database.

Then I found a perl script that rebuilds the blog (publishes the database out onto HTML pages). It really didn't meet my needs at all. I had to recode a lot of it to get it to run in cgi. I am not a programmer. Never have been, never will. This was like a herculean task for me, sitting here with my perl and cgi books. The script that I downloaded was mt-rebuildall, but I don't recommend it. Apparently the right way to handle rebuilds on a frequent basis is to run PHP and dynamically publish. I don't want to do that because I believe that it is faster to serve up static (ie, pre-built) pages when the user requests them. Why should you have to wait an extra few seconds for the page to build?

What made the whole problem really interesting is that this blog is hosted at an ISP that doesn't allow cron jobs. So I wrote a bunch of perl scripts to run on my other server that call the cgi scripts on this server to import the email and rebuild the blog.

I've noticed that some of the postings under the News section are pretty screwed up. I think meow isn't parsing the text correctly, but I don't have time to keep programming so it'll have to stay this way.

My hope is that now the time that would have been spent cutting, pasting, and rebuilding can now be spent writing previews, reviews, and editorials. It would be great if I could spend more time writing.

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 10:40 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

I had the opportunity to chat with Beatrice Spaine of EA about Pogo.com last week. It was really interesting. This whole casual games thing intrigues me because I'm a hardcore gamer, my friends are hardcore gamers, and I sort of target my reviews at hardcore gamers. But these casual games are taking off like wildfire. The most interesting thing is that casual gamers rarely even see themselves as gamers - they're just having fun. In fact, a lot of them spend a helluva lot of time on Club Pogo so maybe they are hardcore. It sort of makes me question the whole use of the term "hardcore".

Here's an example. My father got a Pocket PC last summer and he brought it down the shore for the weekend. He was literally glued to the thing for the whole weekend because he was playing some game where he had to match the color of some balls. I think he even brought it to dinner one night and my mother made him put it away (we had a similar incident earlier in the season when I brought my DS and Nintendogs to the table - hey, Teddy and I were in the middle of a walk). My father is in no way a hardcore gamer, but his behavior reminds me of myself when I get a new game that I fall in love with. What is the real difference between my father playing this ball game and me staying up for 72 hours so I could play through Metal Gear Solid or Medal of Honor? Yes, there was an incident here several years ago with Medal of Honor Rising Sun where my neighbor came downstairs at 2 am to ask me to put the war on hold.

I guess the major difference between my gaming and my father's gaming is the twitch and coordination factor. One has to be reasonably adept in order to target and shoot, whereas it's pretty easy to point at balls with a stylus. But in terms of the love of the game it is the same. I think that's the significant part. People love to play games. Actually, it almost seems like everything alive (with half a brain) loves to play. Not to trivialize the issue, but are my cats casual or hardcore gamers when they're chasing a catnip mouse around the apartment?

So I think I've just stumbled on the bottom line. Gamers want to have fun, pick up a little diversion, and perhaps be challenged. Casual or hardcore, we're all the same on a basic level. And at the risk of sounding silly, game on everyone. Kick back, have fun. Michael Franti and Spearhead sing that "it's not who you love, but do you love", and I think I'm ready to say "it's not what you play, but do you play?"

OK, on to the meeting.

Pogo has 1.4 million registered users of which 76% are women. Club Pogo is a premium service with no advertising. It's free pogo plus thirty exclusive games and enhanced community. The most popular features are the customization features for your avatar called Pogo minis. When you play games against others you can see their avatars and after a while you'll start to recognize each other.

They recently launched microtransactions for tokens which are something you earn and gems which are something you buy. I couldn't believe that they've had 5 million dollars in microtransactions in less than a year. 396,000 concurrent users is their record.

They're moving into downloadable games, like Fairy Godmother Tycoon. Remember fractured fairy tales from Rocky and Bullwinkle? That's what this is like. Save the kingdom by creating a corporation to make potions for saving people. It's essentially a resource management game but very cute and non-threatening. You run your own marketing and sales. You can download it and play for a few hours to see if you like it before you buy it.

The strategy is to make Pogo broader. Pogo Island is five games for DS - Poppit, wordwomp, tri-peak solitaire, squelchies, and flinx. On a WiFi enabled DS you can use the same token system as online pogo so you can take it with you. Unfortunately, it's single player only and has no inter-DS competition.

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 8:22 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

I met with Andrew Wong of EA and Bill Roper of Flagship Studios a few days ago to talk about the upcoming action RPG Hellgate London. Overall I was pretty impressed with it and stayed to talk to Bill for a long time.

I'm trying something new with this entry. I took notes during the demo and I'm writing this directly from the notes so it probably won't flow as well as most of my entries by will probably contain more information. My guess is that you probably came here for information and not for beautiful prose.

They wanted to make the starting area compact and simple for players to navigate. The London Underground is a safe zone so when you're there you don't have to worry about getting attacked. Everything starts with a tutorial. NPCs have quests for you so you have to walk around and talk to all of them. If the quest is blue then it is part of the major story arc. The cool thing about the game is that it is both single player and MMO, so in theory there's tons of replayability which is somewhat refreshing today. You can buy the box and play on your own for about 30-40 hours, then you can go online where there will be additional game modes and story lines. Flagship intends to work tightly with community to tailor the game to be the experience that players want.

Every time you go out on an adventure the area and all the contents are randomly generated. Two people can do the same level or quest and have two totally different experiences. My general impression is that the game looks good and has nice shadowing and fire effects. There's actually a huge mothership kind of thing that casts a massive shadow over the city so shadows come and go and the effect is very cool. The point of the game is to fight demons on the surface, and they're an ugly bunch. There's a lot of finding, buying and selling items which is always a big element of these games.

Flagship has made every effort to make the game playable for both hardcore and nonhardcore gamers. They've tried to simplify menus and also make keys context sensitive so you don't have to hunt for certain functions. For example, the left shift can make you sprint during combat. Alt brings up the action menu, your inventory is drag and drop, as is modding your weapons and leveling up your skills. The automap and quest log shown on the screen.

There is pretty good diversity in game play for the different classes. The hunter is more like an FPS than an RPG where you aim with a reticle and shoot from the hip. The first person features were designed in from the beginning so it feels right. If youŕe hunter with engineering skills (thank you hellgateguru.com) you can build drones that help you fight, drop health, project shields and more. The templar is melee based third person only; he can use the grappler which is a cool weapon that drags enemies in so you can bash them. This can be very useful for enemies with ranged attacks or flying enemies. The game is very playable using each different character class. All of the character classes have to be able to complete the game solo and all character classes have to be playable in solo mode. The cabbalist is a spell caster who uses the powers of the demons against them. They us focus items to channel the energy

One interesting thing is that armor is color themed meaning that individual pieces now match instead of giving the usual patchwork feel. Also you can make a guild color theme and share it with your guild. You can also mod your weapons to enhance capabilities. The armor colors and the mods on weapons are ways to individualize yourself within the game. Using different items require different attributes which creates a whole system of trade offs.

The game is scheduled for release in summer 07.

UPDATE 02/28/07
This story got noticed (surprisingly) a few hours ago and now it's really getting a lot of traffic. I honestly had no idea that Hellgate had such a following and it isn't even coming out for 4+ months. In the discussion forum at hellgateguru.com somone pointed out that I had made a mistake when I originally posted the story. I said that there was an engineer class. There is no engineer class. I was looking at a Hunter with engineering skills.

As of 6 pm EST, an unbelievable 47% of today's traffic is on this page.

It's also very interesting how different sites/bloggers pick out different tidbits of this entry and write about them. For example, at www.hellgatelondon.de they mention that you can have guild colors for your armor, while at the previously mentioned hellgateguru.com they're more focused on class. They're also discussing this post on hellgate.ingame.de

This is really cool stuff. I'm so happy that gamers all over the world find this site useful.

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 8:20 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)

=0A2K Sports Announces Major League Baseball=AE 2K7 Now Available=0A=0A =
=0A=0A New York, NY =96 February 27, 2007 =96 2K Sports, a publishing la=
bel of Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. (Nasdaq: TTWO), announced today =
that Major League Baseball=AE 2K7 is now available in stores across North A=
merica for the Xbox 360=99 and Xbox=AE video game and entertainment systems=
from Microsoft, the PLAYSTATION=AE3 and PlayStation=AE2 computer entertain=
ment systems, and the PSP=AE (PlayStation=AEPortable) system. =0A=0A =
=0A=0A =93Our development team has worked incredibly hard to deliver what=
we believe is the next generation standard for baseball video games,=94 sa=
id Greg Thomas , president of Visual Concepts, a 2K Sports studio. =93Base=
ball is a sport comprised of passionate fans who expect all the details to =
be spot-on, and with Major League Baseball 2K7, I believe that even the mos=
t pure of baseball purists will be pleased with what we=92re giving them.=
=94=0A=0A =0A=0A Major League Baseball 2K7 sets the visual standard w=
ith Signature Style - over 300 unique player animations raise the level of =
authentic detail. Gamers will instantly recognize the unique pitching styl=
es, batting rituals, and characteristic movements of their favorite MLB=AE =
players. Major League Baseball 2K7 offers a range of new replay camera per=
spectives showcasing the high quality of the next generation visuals, inclu=
ding camera shots outside ballparks, dynamic camera shots of highlight play=
s, unique camera angles of each batter at the plate and much more.=0A=0A =
=0A=0A Major League Baseball 2K7 features the best collection of commen=
tators assembled in any baseball video game. Featured studio commentators =
Jeanne Zelasko and Steve Physioc lend their talents in developing the story=
line of the ballgame with team histories, player analysis, and entertaining=
comments before the first pitch of each game. When the players take to th=
e field, the extraordinary voices of Jon Miller, partnered with Hall of Fam=
e=99 legend Joe Morgan, tell the tale of every pitch and at bat with remark=
able insight, delightful humor, and the trademark style that has made this =
duo the best commentary team in the business. =0A=0A =0A=0A Featurin=
g New York Yankee captain and seven time All-Star shortstop Derek Jeter, Ma=
jor League Baseball 2K7 is rated =93E=94 for Everyone and is available now =
for the Xbox 360 and Xbox video game and entertainment systems from Microso=
ft, for $59.99 and $29.99, respectively, the PLAYSTATION 3 system and PlayS=
tation 2 system for $59.99 and $29.99 respectively and the PSP system for $=
29.99. Major League Baseball 2K7 for the Game Boy=AE Advance and the Ninte=
ndo DS=99 will be released this spring.=0A=0A =0A=0A For more informa=
tion, log onto http://www.2ksports.com=0A=0A =0A=0A About Take-Two In=
teractive Software=0A=0A =0A=0A Headquartered in New York City, Take-=
Two Interactive Software, Inc. is a global developer, marketer, distributor=
and publisher of interactive entertainment software games for the PC, Play=
Station=AE game console, PlayStation=AE2 and PLAYSTATION=AE3 computer enter=
tainment systems, PSP=AE (PlayStation=AEPortable) system, Xbox=AE and Xbox =
360=99 video game and entertainment systems from Microsoft, Wii=99, Nintend=
o GameCube=99, Nintendo DS=99 and Game Boy=AE Advance. The Company publishe=
s and develops products through its wholly owned labels Rockstar Games, 2K =
and 2K Sports, and Global Star Software; and distributes software, hardware=
and accessories in North America through its Jack of All Games subsidiary=
. Take-Two's common stock is publicly traded on NASDAQ under the symbol TTW=
O. For more corporate and product information please visit our website at w=
ww.take2games.com.=0A=0A =0A=0A All trademarks and copyrights contain=
ed herein are the property of their respective holders. =0A=0A =0A=0A =
Xbox, Xbox 360 and Xbox Live are either registered trademarks or trademark=
s of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.=
=0A=0A =0A=0A "PlayStation", "PLAYSTATION", the "PS" Family logo and =
=93PSP=94 are registered trademarks of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. Mem=
ory Stick Duo=99 may be required (sold separately).=0A=0A =0A=0A =99,=
=AE, Game Boy Advance, Nintendo GameCube, and Nintendo DS are trademarks of=
Nintendo. =A9 2004 Nintendo.=0A=0A =0A=0A Major League Baseball tra=
demarks and copyrights are used with permission of Major League Baseball Pr=
operties, Inc. Visit the official Major League Baseball website at MLB.com =
=A9 MLBPA-Official Licensee, Major League Baseball Players Association. Vis=
it www.MLBPLAYERS.com, the Players Choice on the web.=0A=0A =0A=0A=0A =
=0A=0A =0A=0A=0A=0A=0A=0A=0A

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=0AKonami Ships DDR Universe and Marvel TCG Please see TWO announcements=
below. Konami ships DDR Universe for Xbox 360 and Marvel Trading Card Game=
for PSP=0A=0A =0A=0A =0A=0A KONAMI SHIPS DANCE DANCE REVOLUTION UNIVERS=
E TO RETAIL STORES NATIONWIDE=0A=0A =0A=0A The DDR Revolution Goes Next Gen=
with its Debut on the Xbox 360 =0A=0A =0A=0A Features Include Advanced On=
line Modes, New Gameplay Options, Stunning Next-Gen Graphics and Surround S=
ound =0A=0A =0A=0A FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE=0A=0A =0A=0A REDWOOD CITY, Cal=
if. =96 February 27, 2007 =96 Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc. today anno=
unced it has shipped Dance Dance Revolution Universe=99 (DDR UNIVERSE) for =
the Xbox 360=99 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft to retai=
l stores nationwide. Taking full advantage of the next-generation capabilit=
ies of the Xbox 360, DDR Universe contains an extensive set of features, al=
lowing both newcomers and fans of the series to experience the game like ne=
ver before.=0A=0A =0A=0A DDR Universe takes dancing to a whole new level w=
ith crisp, high-definition graphics, more than 70 hit songs, all-new non-st=
op megamixes, new Relay Mode, exclusive downloadable songs and online head-=
to-head competitions via Xbox Live. In addition, newcomers to the franchise=
will love the game modes =96 How To Play, Lesson Mode and Game Mode Lite =
=96 which make learning DDR more fun than ever. =0A=0A =0A=0A =93DDR Unive=
rse is the first game in the DDR series for the Xbox 360 and the first next=
-generation music game from Konami. It is the most complete and customizabl=
e DDR to date, giving players the ability to create their own dance steps a=
nd video backgrounds,=94 said Jason Enos, Senior Product Manager at Konami =
Digital Entertainment, Inc. =93With the added ability to download individua=
l songs from Xbox Live, DDR Universe provides an amazing environment for pl=
ayers to tailor their gameplay experience.=94=0A=0A =0A=0A The song list i=
ncludes tracks from top pop artists such as Depeche Mode, Chris Brown, Kyli=
e Minogue, Jamiroqui and New Order as well as exclusive tracks from electro=
nic music luminaries Steve Porter, Chris Fortier, Jondi & Spesh, skylab2000=
, GRIDLOK and Audio Magnetics (Bill Hamel). Further expanding the game=92s =
music library is the ability to download songs to be released by Konami exc=
lusively for DDR Universe. Additionally, the game=92s online mode will allo=
w DDR players to compete head-to-head against other players as well as the =
ability to upload new dance routines for others to try out via Xbox Live. =
=0A=0A =0A=0A New modes of play include the Power Courses that offer even =
more opportunities for fun and fitness with non-stop megamixes, emulating t=
he experience of listening to a continuous dj mix in a real dance club. Als=
o new is the Relay Mode that allows more players than ever to get involved =
in DDR competitions, as they take turns competing on various songs. Both ne=
w modes are perfect for parties and family get-togethers. Rounding out the =
complete package is the popular Workout Mode, where players can track calor=
ies lost and other vital fitness stats as they play the game.=0A=0A =0A=0A=
Dance Dance Revolution UNIVERSE is rated =93E10+=94 by the ESRB and is ava=
ilable for an SRP of $79.99 for the video game and dance mat bundle. The so=
ftware-only version will launch on March 27 for an SRP of $49.99. For more =
information, please visit www.konami.com. =0A=0A =0A=0A =0A=0A About =
Konami =0A=0A Konami is a leading developer, publisher and manufacturer of =
electronic entertainment properties. Konami=92s titles include the popular =
franchises Metal Gear Solid=AE, Silent Hill=AE, Dance Dance Revolution=AE a=
nd Castlevania=AE, among other top sellers. The latest information about Ko=
nami can be found on the Web at www.konami.com. Konami Corporation is a pub=
licly traded company based in Tokyo, Japan with subsidiary offices, Konami =
Digital Entertainment, Co., Ltd. in Tokyo, Japan, Konami Digital Entertainm=
ent, Inc. in the United States and Konami Digital Entertainment GmbH in Fra=
nkfurt, Germany. Konami Corporation is traded in the United States on the N=
ew York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol KNM. Details of the products=
published by Konami can be found at www.konami.com > . =0A=0A =0A=0A =93KONAMI=94 is a registered trademark of KONAMI COR=
PORATION. =93BEMANI=94 is a registered trademark of Konami Digital Entertai=
nment Co., Ltd. =93Dance Dance Revolution UNIVERSE=94 is a trademark of Kon=
ami Digital Entertainment Co., Ltd. =A9 2007 Konami Digital Entertainmnet, =
Inc. USP 6450888=0A=0A =0A=0A Developed & Published by Konami Digital Enter=
tainment, Inc. under license from Konami Digital Entertainment Co., Ltd.=0A=
=0A Microsoft, Xbox, Xbox 360, Xbox Live and the Live Logos are either regi=
stered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the U.S. and/or=
in other countries and are used under license from Microsoft. All other tr=
ademarks are the property of their respective owners. =0A=0A =0A=0A =0A=
=0A=0A =0A=0A KONAMI SHIPS MARVEL TRADING CARD GAME FOR THE PSP SYSTEM TO=
RETAIL STORES NATIONWIDE=0A=0A =0A=0A Create an Original Team of Marvel Su=
per Heroes and Compete Online in this New Card-Based Strategy Game=0A=0A =
=0A=0A FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE=0A=0A =0A=0A REDWOOD CITY, Calif. =96 Februar=
y 27, 2007 =96 Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc. today announced that it h=
as shipped Marvel Trading Card Game for the PSP=AE (PlayStation=AEPortable)=
system to retail stores nationwide. Based on the hit collectible card game=
from Upper Deck Entertainment, Marvel Trading Card Game lets players assem=
ble their own original team of Super Heroes and Super Villains and wage bat=
tle in a deep single player campaign as well as massive online tournaments.=
=0A=0A =0A=0A Marvel Trading Card Game puts the forces of the Marvel Univ=
erse into players=92 hands as they create a custom team of Super Heroes and=
Super Villains and do battle in strategic card-based clashes. With Spider-=
Man, the Fantastic Four, the X-Men, the Avengers, The Incredible Hulk and h=
undreds more at their disposal, players will be able to experience incredib=
le battles made possible by Upper Deck=92s =93Vs. System,=94 a dynamic card=
-based game engine. With numerous card types, players can produce decks tha=
t follow a number of different strategic options that will lead them down d=
ifferent paths to victory. =0A=0A =0A=0A The single player story mode of M=
arvel Trading Card Game lets players choose a path of good or evil as they =
progress with a team of heroes or villains through a story penned by Marvel=
writer John Layman. In between each epic battle, players will accumulate m=
ore cards to incorporate into their deck and also view detailed comic book =
cut scenes drawn by Marvel artists Dave Ross, Keron Grant, Pat Olliffe and =
others that progress the game=92s story. =0A=0A =0A=0A Highlighting the on=
line infrastructure functionality of the PSP system, Marvel Trading Card Ga=
me features a persistent online community where players can compete with ot=
hers in special game modes and tournaments, trade for cards and purchase ne=
w packs from the game=92s online store. New sets of cards will be available=
exclusively through the online store, letting players explore new strategi=
c possibilities while refining their deck with the most up to date game con=
tent. Frequent tournaments sanctioned by Konami will let players put their =
skills and decks to the test, with the winners securing valuable prizes suc=
h as rare card sets. =0A=0A =0A=0A Marvel Trading Card Game for the PSP sy=
stem is rated =93T=94 for Teen by the ESRB and carries a suggested retail p=
rice of $29.99. The game will also be released for the Nintendo DS=99 and P=
C this spring. For more information, please visit www.konami.com w.konami.com/> . =0A=0A =0A=0A About Konami =0A=0A Konami is a leading dev=
eloper, publisher and manufacturer of electronic entertainment properties. =
Konami=92s titles include the popular franchises Metal Gear Solid=AE, Silen=
t Hill=AE, Dance Dance Revolution=AE and Castlevania=AE, among other top se=
llers. The latest information about Konami can be found on the Web at www.k=
onami.com. Konami Corporation is a publicly traded company based in Tokyo, =
Japan with subsidiary offices, Konami Digital Entertainment, Co., Ltd. in T=
okyo, Japan, Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc. in the United States and Ko=
nami Digital Entertainment GmbH in Frankfurt, Germany. Konami Corporation i=
s traded in the United States on the New York Stock Exchange under the tick=
er symbol KNM. Details of the products published by Konami can be found at =
www.konami.com.=0A=0A =0A=0A MARVEL, The Incredible Hulk, Spider-Man, the X=
-Men, the Avengers, the Fantastic Four and all related Marvel characters ar=
e =A9 and trademarks of Marvel Characters, Inc., and are used with permissi=
on. Super Hero(es) and Super Villian(s) are co-owned registered trademarks=
. Copyright =A9 2006 Marvel Characters, Inc. All rights reserved. www.mar=
vel.com . Licensed by Marvel Characters, Inc.=0A=
=0A =0A=0A Upper Deck Entertainment, Vs. System, and the card hologram are=
trademark or registered trademarks of The Upper Deck Company, LLC. =A9 200=
5 The Upper Deck Company, LLC. All Rights Reserved.=0A=0A =93Konami=94 is =
a registered trademark of KONAMI CORPORATION=0A=0A "PlayStation", "PS" Fami=
ly logo and "PSP" are registered trademarks of Sony Computer Entertainment =
Inc. Memory Stick Duo=99 may be required (sold separately). Certain limitat=
ions apply to Wi-Fi compatible connectivity. See manual for details. Player=
responsible for Wi-Fi compatible fees.=0A=0A Nintendo DS is a trademark of=
Nintendo.=0A=0A =0A=0A=0A=0A=0A=0A=0A=0A=0A=0A

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=0A The Wait is Over. Get Your Hands on the Highly Anticipated RTS Sequel=
Today!=0A=0A =0A=0A =0A=0A =0A=0A EA Los Angeles (EALA) is=
thrilled to offer you the chance to play Command & Conquer 3 Tiberium Wars=
=99 (C&C 3) by downloading an action-packed demo today!=0A=0A =0A=0A =
Demo includes:=0A=0A One tutorial mission Two single player=
missions featuring live action video sequences One skirmish map wit=
h varying difficulty settings One live action trailer montage featur=
ing Tricia Helfer, Josh Holloway, Joe Kucan, Michael Ironside, Jennife=
r Morrison, Billy Dee Williams, and Grace Park =0A=0A To downlo=
ad the demo, visit:=0A=0A http://www.commandandconquer.com/intel/default.=
aspx?id=3D25=0A=0A =0A=0A =0A=0A About C&C 3=0A=0A March, 2047.=
A massive nuclear fireball explodes high in the night sky, marking the dra=
matic beginning to the Third Tiberium War and long-awaited return of the mo=
st groundbreaking Real-time Strategy franchise (RTS) of all time. =0A=0A =
=0A=0A The critically-acclaimed Command & Conquer=99 (C&C) series retur=
ns with C&C 3. Setting the standard for the future of RTS gaming once more,=
C&C 3 takes you back to where it all began=97the Tiberium Universe. =0A=0A=
=0A=0A In 2047, Tiberium has blanketed the Earth, which is now divid=
ed into zones based on the level of Tiberium infestation. Pristine Blue Zon=
es represent 20% of the planet=92s surface and are the last refuge of the c=
ivilized world. Partially habitable Yellow Zones make up 50% of the planet=
=92s surface; most of the world=92s population lives in these war-torn and =
ecologically ravaged areas. The remaining 30% of the planet is uninhabitabl=
e, a Tiberium wasteland swept by violent Ion Storms. Red Zones are like the=
surface of an Alien planet. =0A=0A =0A=0A The infamous Kane has retu=
rned to lead the Brotherhood of Nod in a massive global assault on the Glob=
al Defense Initiative and the few remaining Blue Zones left on the planet. =
Only you can stop him. The fate of humanity =96 and the planet =96 is in y=
our hands. =0A=0A =0A=0A Fast and fluid gameplay, a breakthrough sin=
gle player campaign, the ability to transform online battles into a spectat=
or sport, next-generation graphics, and an epic story with full-motion vide=
o sequences featuring top Hollywood talent, mark the return of the genre-de=
fining C&C series.=0A=0A =0A=0A Developed at EALA, C&C 3 will hit sto=
res shelves on March 28, 2007 for Windows PC and in the months to follow fo=
r the Xbox 360=99 video game and entertainment system. This product is rate=
d =91T=92 for Teen by the ESRB. For more information about C&C 3 or the C&C=
series, please visit the official site at www.CommandAndConquer.com.=0A=0A=
=0A =0A=0A=0A=0A=0A=0A=0A

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Is your gaming life getting stagnant? Do you long for the late nights of =
addictive, bleary-eyed gaming sessions of long ago? Has the magical feelin=
g of gaming goodness been lost?=0A=0AWell relax, because good news is comin=
g your way!=0A=0AIf you want gaming life to sizzle with pure satisfaction o=
nce again, Chili Con Carnage is here for you. Better yet=85 it ships to st=
ore shelves throughout North America today!=0A=0ABursting with action, come=
dy, some chickens and a healthy dose of awesomeness, Chili Con Carnage is j=
ust what you need to feel the true flavor of portable gaming. Shiver with =
delight as you control Ram on his quest for revenge, destroying everything =
and everyone in your path. Bust out the craziest, over-the-top, loco-moves=
and guffaw with laughter at the crazy antics of your larger-than-life adve=
rsaries.=0A=0ASo keep your eyes peeled, because Chili Con Carnage, availabl=
e exclusively on the PSP=AE (PlayStation=AEPortable) system, has shipped to=
day and will be popping up on store shelves throughout North America before=
you know it!=0A=0AFor more details on what Chili Con Carnage can do for yo=
u, please visit www.chiliconcarnagegame.com.=0A=0A=0A=0A=0A

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=0A Intuitive On-the-Ground and In-the-Air Controls define the 5th Iterat=
ion of Beloved Franchise=0A=0A =0A=0A REDWOOD CITY, Calif. =96 Febr=
uary 27, 2007 =96 Experience the soul of SSX=99 remixed, re-energized and=
fully realized. Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ: ERTS) announced that SSX=99=
Blur, developed exclusively for Nintendo Wii=99, ships to North American =
retailers today, and on March 9 in Europe under the EA SPORTS BIG=99 brand=
. The game fully maximizes the intuitive capabilities of Nintendo=92s next=
generation console while staying true to the fast action-packed gameplay =
that you have come to expect from the franchise. Developed by EA Montreal,=
SSX Blur is huge air, insane speeds and monster tricks delivered in a fre=
sh, innovative, Wii-a-fied package.=0A=0A =0A=0A Experience the famil=
iar as well as the unexpected. You=92re still ripping down the slopes, but=
this time you=92re carving and catching air with the revolutionary new on=
-the-ground and in-the-air control system. SSX Blur delivers the essence o=
f the critically acclaimed franchise but takes it to the next level with t=
he capabilities of the Wii. Use the Nunchuk to tear down the mountain and =
use the Wii Remote to paint a virtually unlimited array of aerial maneuver=
s. Every second of your SSX Blur experience will be maxed out with motion.=
=0A=0A =0A=0A Your favorite characters return to the mountain to tack=
le 12 freshly laid tracks on three distinctly themed peaks. Feel the tunes=
intensify as you pick up speed and stick your tricks, with dynamic music =
mirroring your gameplay experience. Keep grooving, bombing and boosting to=
fill your groove meter and you=92re set to let your Uber Tricks loose on =
the mountain. SSX Blur is on-the-ground and in-the-air excitement from top=
to bottom.=0A=0A =0A=0A SSX=99 Blur is available for the Nintendo Wi=
i and has an MSRP of $49.99. The game has been rated =93E=94 (Everyone) by=
the ESRB and 3+ by PEGI. For more information, log onto www.ssxblur.com. =
=0A=0A

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TOM SALTA RECORDS WITH HOLLYWOOD STUDIO SYMPHONY & CHOIR FOR ORIGINAL SCORE=
TO TOM CLANCY'S GHOST RECON ADVANCED WARFIGHTER =AE 2=0A=0AAward-winning c=
omposer records dynamic emotional soundtrack with Hollywood A-list musician=
s and vocalists for next installment in popular squad-based action franchis=
e=0A=0A=0A=0A=0A=0ASan Francisco =96 February 27th, 2007 =96 Composer and m=
usic producer Tom Salta, whose previous credits include the MTV VMA nominat=
ed original score for Tom Clancy's Ghost Recon: Advanced Warfighter(TM) (To=
m Clancy's GRAW), has written and recorded the dark and epic original score=
for Tom Clancy's Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter =AE 2, the next installme=
nt in the smash-hit squad-based action franchise. Tom Clancy's Ghost Recon =
Advanced Warfighter =AE 2 is being developed by the award-winning teams tha=
t created the original Tom Clancy's Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter(TM) in =
Ubisoft's Paris and Red Storm Studios, with developer GRIN once again devel=
oping the specific version for Windows=AE PC. Tom Clancy's Ghost Recon Adva=
nced Warfighter=AE 2 is scheduled for release on the Xbox 360(TM) video gam=
e and entertainment system from Microsoft, PSP=AE (PlayStation=AEPortable) =
system and Windows=AE PC in March 2007, with the PLAYSTATION=AE3 computer e=
ntertainment system version scheduled to release in June 2007.=0A=0AFor Tom=
Clancy's Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter =AE 2, Salta has written a more a=
ggressive and expressive original score to enhance the game's intensive act=
ion and memorable, dramatic scenes, with only a few select motif references=
taken from the anthemic musical score of the first outing. To ensure the b=
est performance of these tense and emotionally complex compositions for Tom=
Clancy's GRAW2, Salta recorded with the Hollywood Studio Symphony and the =
Page LA Studio Chorus on the Eastwood Scoring Stage at Warner Bros. Studios=
in Burbank, California, a premier orchestra recording venue for Hollywood'=
s major motion pictures. =0A=0AManu Bachet, Music Supervisor for Tom Clancy=
's Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter =AE 2 at Ubisoft, said, "Our goal on the=
sequel was to match the same high quality level as the acclaimed Tom Clanc=
y's GRAW1 soundtrack. However Tom exceeded our expectations and has brought=
Tom Clancy's GRAW2's score to the next level, guiding the whole orchestra =
and choir performance to beautifully balance the thin line between emotion =
and violence - right where the magic happens.=94=0A=0A=0ATo hear preview sa=
mples of Tom Salta's music for the game, visit the official website at www.=
ghostrecon.com.=0A=0ASalta's other recent projects include Ubisoft's exclus=
ive first-person action title for the Nintendo Wii console, Red Steel, draw=
ing from traditional and contemporary Japan for the game's original soundtr=
ack which received IGN's Wii Award for Best Original Score. His music is al=
so featured in the Warner Bros. movie trailer for "Harry Potter and the Ord=
er of the Phoenix.=94 For more information visit www.tomsalta.com.=0A=0ATom=
Clancy's Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter =AE 2 builds off of the events in=
the first game and places gamers in control of the U.S. military's elite f=
ighting unit, the Ghosts. In the year 2014, the rising conflict between Mex=
ican loyalists and insurgent rebel forces has thrown Mexico into a full-sca=
le civil war. Under the command of Captain Scott Mitchell, the Ghosts are c=
alled upon to face an imminent threat to the United States. The fate of two=
countries now lies in the hands of the Ghosts as they fend off an attack o=
n U.S. soil. Equipped with the most cutting-edge weaponry and technology, t=
he Ghosts must battle on both sides of the border to neutralize the escalat=
ing rebel threat.=0A=0A=0A=A9 2006-2007 Ubisoft Entertainment. All Rights R=
eserved. Ghost Recon, Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter, the Soldier Icon, Re=
d Steel, Ubisoft, Ubi.com, and the Ubisoft logo are trademarks of Ubisoft E=
ntertainment in the U.S. and/or other countries. PC version developed by GR=
IN. "PlayStation", "PLAYSTATION", and "PS" Family logo are registered trade=
marks of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. Microsoft, Xbox, Xbox 360, Xbox L=
IVE, and the Xbox logos are trademarks of the Microsoft group of companies.=
TM and Wii are trademarks of Nintendo. =A9 2006 Nintendo.=0A=0A=0A=0AAbout=
Ubisoft:=0AUbisoft is a leading producer, publisher and distributor of int=
eractive entertainment products worldwide and has grown considerably throug=
h its strong and diversified lineup of products and partnerships. Ubisoft h=
as offices in 21 countries and sales in more than 50 countries around the g=
lobe. It is committed to delivering high-quality, cutting-edge video game t=
itles to consumers. Ubisoft generated revenue of 547 million Euros for the =
2005-2006 fiscal year. To learn more, please visit www.ubisoftgroup.com.=0A=
=0A=0AAbout Tom Clancy: =0AWith more than 80 million books sold, Tom Clancy=
is arguably the world's most recognized author. His works include fiction =
such as The Hunt for Red October, Clear and Present Danger, The Sum of All =
Fears, Rainbow Six, Without Remorse and The Teeth of the Tiger. Clancy also=
writes nonfiction works about weapons and various military units. Four of =
his books have already been adapted into highly successful feature films.=
=0A=0A=0A=0A=0A=0A=0A

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*Linden** Lab**^® ** to Integrate Voice into /Second Life/^® with
Vivox^® *

*FRAMINGHAM, Mass. — February 27, 2007* — Vivox, the leading provider of
integrated voice services for virtual worlds and online games, today
announced that it will provide Linden Lab^® , creator of 3D virtual
world Second Life^® , with integrated voice communication for the Second
Life Grid.

Linden Lab will incorporate the Vivox voice services into the fabric of
Second Life. Subscribers or ‘Residents’ will be able to speak with one
another simply by walking up to other Residents and talking. There will
be no need for a separate application, download, or login. The solution
is designed to simplify and enhance interaction among the Residents and
to mirror real-life communication, including spatial audio. Spatial
audio, incorporating technology licensed from DiamondWare, will allow
residents to hear each other based on their positions – on their left,
right, far away or nearby. Other Vivox features will include controls
for both Residents and land owners to manage participation in
conversations. In addition, Residents will have friends lists, presence,
speaking indicators and tools that will allow Residents of Second Life
to stay connected with each other and the Second Life universe while in
their first life. Whether a Resident’s Second Life interest is primarily
social, educational, or professional, integrated voice will enhance and
broaden the in-world experience.

"Integrated voice is a natural extension of the virtual world our
Residents are building,” said Joe Miller, Vice President, Platform &
Technology Development of Linden Lab. “Voice will further enrich that
community and introduce new opportunities in social development and
commerce. Vivox’s high-quality scalability and rich feature set make it
a perfect match for our efforts. Vivox understands the community and its
needs and we could not ask for a better partner to bring voice onto the
Second Life Grid.”

“The Second Life Grid, with its Resident-created world and highly
immersive structure, is an ideal platform for business and social
interaction,” said Rob Seaver, CEO of Vivox. “Live voice is essential to
realizing the full potential of this environment, particularly for
collaborative, academic and economic purposes. We are thrilled to
provide this vital part of the Second Life Grid with our integrated
voice service. With the intuitive design of the solution, Linden Lab
will continue to set the course for virtual worlds.”

###

* *

*About Vivox, Inc.*
Vivox provides online games, virtual worlds and online communities with
managed voice communication services that are simple to integrate and
enhance gameplay and community. Vivox’s carrier-grade, customizable
solutions help online games and communities create improved offerings
and extend their user base. Today, Vivox is bringing voice to
approximately one million subscribers in more than 180 countries. For
more information visit http://www.vivox.com .

*Second Life (http://www.secondlife.com )
and Linden Lab (http://www.lindenlab.com )*

Second Life is a 3D online world with a rapidly growing population from
more than 100 countries around the globe, in which the Residents
themselves create and build the world which includes homes, vehicles,
nightclubs, stores, landscapes, clothing, and games. The Second Life
Grid is a sophisticated development platform created by Linden Lab, a
company founded in 1999 by Philip Rosedale, to create a revolutionary
new form of shared 3D experience. The former CTO of RealNetworks,
Rosedale pioneered the development of many of today’s streaming media
technologies, including RealVideo. In April 2003, noted software pioneer
Mitch Kapor, founder of Lotus Development Corporation, was named
Chairman. In 2006, Philip Rosedale and Linden Lab received WIRED’s Rave
Award for Innovation in Business. Based in San Francisco, Linden Lab
employs a senior team bringing together deep expertise in physics, 3D
graphics and networking.

###

Vivox and Vivox stylized logos are trademarks or registered trademarks
of Vivox, Inc. in the United States and other countries. Second Life and
Linden Lab are registered trademarks of Linden Research, Inc.
DiamondWare is a trademark or registered trademarks of DiamondWare in
the United States and other countries. All other company and product
names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective
holders. The information in this document is subject to change without
notice.

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*Namco Networks Celebrates Ms. PAC-MAN's 25th Anniversary with Debut on
the iTunes Store*

/Top-Selling Arcade Classic Now Available for Play on the Fifth
Generation iPod/**

* *

SAN JOSE, Calif. (Feb. 27, 2007) � In celebration of the 25th
anniversary of Ms. PAC-MAN^� , Namco Networks, a leading publisher and
developer of wireless games and content, today announced the
availability of Ms. PAC-MAN on the iTunes Store (www.itunes.com
) for fans to purchase and download for play on
the fifth generation iPod. She joins PAC-MAN, which launched last
September on iTunes and is expected to be another must-have for iPod
owners. Ms. PAC-MAN is available for purchase for $4.99 on the iTunes
Store.

�Appearing on almost every gaming platform, Ms. PAC-MAN has achieved
iconic status since debuting 25 years ago and has become one of the
top-selling video games in history,� said Scott Rubin, Vice President of
Sales and Marketing for Namco Networks. "Launching on the iPod is a
great way to kick-off a year-long anniversary celebration.�

Fans� favorite features are available in Ms. PAC-MAN on the iPod,
including the four unique maze designs, 256 maze levels and the �coffee
break� animated intervals from the original game. The iPod version also
features retro art from the original arcade cabinet and a tutorial
level, which allows players to perfect their ghost avoidance skills.
This version also allows players to listen to the original retro game
sounds or music from their fifth generation iPod library while playing.

Ms. PAC-MAN debuted in 1982 and was an instant classic, especially to an
audience who was already hooked on PAC-MAN and was looking for the next
dot-chomping challenge. Appearing on everything from backpacks to lunch
boxes, Ms. PAC-MAN has become one of the most recognizable icons worldwide.

For information on this and other Namco games, visit www.NamcoGames.com.

*About Namco Networks*

Since 2002, Namco Networks America Inc., a subsidiary of Namco Bandai
Holdings (USA) Inc. and a worldwide leader in the high-tech
entertainment industry, has used 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 .

MS. PAC-MAN� �1980, 1982, 2006 NAMCO BANDAI Games Inc., All Rights Reserved.

Apple, the Apple logo, Mac, Mac OS, Macintosh, iTunes and iPod are
trademarks of Apple.

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/Leading Interactive Entertainment Company to Publish Game Based on /

/Highly Anticipated Theatrical Release from New Line Cinema/

*SAN** FRANCISCO & LONDON (February 27, 2007)* � SEGA� of America Inc.
and SEGA� Europe Ltd. today revealed details regarding the development
of the video game adaptation of the highly anticipated theatrical
release, /The Golden Compass,* */based on the first book in the
award-winning trilogy, /His Dark Materials/ by Philip Pullman. The game
is being developed for multiple platforms and will ship in fall 2007,
just prior to the opening of the New Line Cinema motion picture on
December 7, 2007. Featuring pivotal environments from the movie, the
vivid characters are brought to interactive life, featuring the
likenesses of the movie�s impressive cast, which includes Daniel Craig
as Lord Asriel and newcomer Dakota Blue Richards as Lyra Belacqua.

/ /Produced by New Line Cinema and Scholastic Media, /The Golden
Compass/ follows the screenplay adaptation of the first book in the
acclaimed trilogy, capturing the exciting fantasy adventure set in a
parallel world where giant armored bears rule a kingdom, beautiful
witches fly through the frozen skies, and human beings� deepest essence
is manifest as talking animals that remain their faithful companion for
life � their daemon. Players can assume the role of Lyra, a young girl,
along with her daemon Pantalaimon (Pan), as she journeys through the
frozen wastes of the North to rescue a friend kidnapped by a mysterious
organization known as The Gobblers and winds up on an epic quest to save
not only her world, but ours as well. Gamers can also take on the
character of Iorek Byrnison, a great armoured polar bear who joins the
quest.

As Lyra, players will use their daemon and collaborate with in-game
characters, collecting special items in order to explore, evade, and
deceive their way through confrontations with the Gobblers, the
Magisterium, and the horribly dangerous spy fly to find her friend. They
can also do battle as Iorek with special attacks and a riding mechanic
as he protects Lyra during the journey. Gamers will be able to unlock
secrets and mini-games using a mysterious, truth-telling golden compass
device called an alethiometer. Players can explore 13 vast locations,
including all-new breath-taking environments not seen in the film, on
this massive journey of collaboration, exploration and the eternal
struggle between good and evil.

This epic tale will be brought to the Xbox 360� video game and
entertainment system from Microsoft, the PlayStation�3 computer
entertainment system, the Wii� video game system, the PlayStation�2
computer entertainment system, the PSP� (PlayStation�Portable) system,
the Nintendo DS�, and the PC for holiday 2007.

/The Golden Compass /video game is being developed by Shiny
Entertainment, best known for developing games based on the blockbuster
/The Matrix /film franchise. Shiny was acquired by Foundation 9
Entertainment in October 2006. The Nintendo DS version is being
developed by A2M. For more information on /The Golden Comp//ass/, please
visit the official movie site at http://www.goldencompassmovie.com/

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> *Lyon, France � February 27, 2007 �* Connection Events, a leading
> video game business event producer, announced today the final list of
> exhibitors which will be attending Game Connection Services @ GDC
> 2007. Game Connection Services enables professional meetings between
> developers, publishers and service providers in one easy location.
> Services will feature some of the best companies specializing in
> outsourcing, animation, Quality Assurance, technology tools, 3D and
> many other areas. 43 companies from 15 different countries will be
> exhibiting for over 178 buyers in private meetings. The buyers
> schedule multiple meetings each day enabling them to find exactly what
> they need and purchase it quickly.
>
>
>
> "Game Connection is the most professional acquisition-oriented event I
> have attended so far. The most important aspects of business are taken
> into consideration by the organizers. Format of the event and
> efficient approach to logistics allow to use the time in the most
> efficient way and get directly to business. I highly recommend the
> show to publishers and development studios looking for direct
> cooperation with each other," Said Svetlana Gorobets of 1C Company.
>
> This year Game Connection and GDC are closer than ever as they will
> both take place at the same location making it more practical for
> attendees to participate while at the Conference. Game Connection @
> GDC will take place from March 5-6 and Game Connection Services will
> take place on March 8-9. Both events will be held at Moscone Center
> in San Francisco in the South Hall.
>
> Below is the list of Exhibitors for March 8^th and 9^th .
>
>
>
>
>
> Allegorithmic Lapland
> Studio Sabarasa
>
> Aset Intl. Services Lifemode
> Interactive Santa Cruz Game
>
> Attitude Studio
> Metricminds Ringtail
> Studios
>
> Audiomotion Studios Monde Media Solutions
> Shadedbox
>
> Axis Animation
> Omegame
> Succubus
>
> Bug Tracker Original Force 3D Animation
> Studio Tages
>
> CD Projekt Localisation
> Partnertrans Tarsier
> Studios
>
> CG Seven Perspective
> Studios Ultizen Games
>
> dSonic Inc.
> Pixeltek
> Valkyrie
>
> Fog Studios Playlore
> Gameworks DigitalCity
>
> Globalcollect USA
> Pyramid
> Virtools
>
> GPU-TECH
> Realviz
> Virtuos
>
> Illuminate Labs Redjade
> Inc XPEC
>
> Interserv International Sanuk
> Software Zeppelin Design �
>
> Lamplighter Studios
> Popidols Gauss
> Design
>
>
>
> *About Connection Events*
>
> Created in July 2006, the company is a spin-off of Lyon Game, which
> initially launched Game Connection Europe. Game Connection is a
> business convention for the video game industry, taking place in Lyon
> (France) in December, San Francisco(California, USA) in March during
> the Game Developers Conference, and in Asia. Game Connection provides
> several different services, all geared toward the same goals:
> matchmaking between developers, network building and enhancement, and
> examination of projects and companies.
>
> Game Connection enables specialized meetings between professionals in
> the video game industry, regarding the creation and the financing of
> video games. The event provides game developers a real opportunity to
> show their game concepts and their development abilities. It also
> provides publishers the chance to maximize their time and ROI by
> meeting multiple developers in just one place.
>
> Please Visit us on the web at www.game-connection.com
>
>
>
>
>
>
> # # #
>

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=0A Popular Video Game Series Embraces Player Creativity, Customization a=
nd Personal Expression Through a New, Delightful Cast of Characters =0A=0A =
=0A=0A For IMMEDIATE RELEASE =0A=0A =0A=0A REDWOOD CITY, Calif. =
=96 (February 26, 2007. 9 a.m. EST) =96 Electronic Arts (NASDAQ: ERTS) anno=
unced today that the company is developing MySims=99, the first game in a r=
evolutionary new line from the developers of the blockbuster franchise The =
Sims, designed especially for the Wii=99 and Nintendo DS=99 platforms. =0A=
=0A =0A=0A MySims introduces a charming cast of whimsical characters =
while delivering the creativity, customization and classic open-ended gamep=
lay that has enchanted Sims players worldwide. Players begin by creating t=
heir own toy-like Sim that reflects their personal style and attitudes. Fr=
om pig-tails and baseball caps to dreadlocks and Mohawks, the options are e=
ndless and the style is unlike any Sims game to date. By unlocking cool ne=
w clothing, hairstyles and accessories, players explore the game=92s incred=
ible depth of customization and expression=85 and the characters are just t=
he beginning!=0A=0A =0A=0A Transforming the traditional Sims gameplay=
for the Wii and Nintendo DS platforms, MySims moves the player to a deligh=
tful but disorganized town where =96 thanks to the easy and unique controls=
=96 they can re-shape everything and make it their own. The town is rundo=
wn, but the player can make it much more dynamic. Using a selection of buil=
ding blocks, unique patterns and engaging creativity tools, players can des=
ign furniture and appliances, architect new homes and businesses, and re-de=
fine the entire MySims landscape!=0A=0A =0A=0A As players explore and=
build up the town, they will get to know dedicated, long-time residents li=
ke the always-busy Mayor Rosalyn P. Marshall and Buddy =96 the mostly-lazy =
hotel Bellhop. Once things start to look up, they=92ll meet and choose from=
a variety of colorful, would-be residents. Will they build a restaurant fo=
r Gino Delicioso the Italian Chef, or will they help Ocean Breeze set up hi=
s Yoga studio instead? =0A=0A =0A=0A Design is everyone=92s domain in=
MySims. From building a new Pizza Oven for Gino to putting the finishing t=
ouches on a new roof for Buddy=92s busy hotel, each completed task will hel=
p the town grow. As it expands to new areas, players will receive special b=
uilding blocks, decorations and patterns which help customize their unique =
creations. From furniture and buildings to the town as a whole, every choic=
e informs how residents and visitors feel and behave. =0A=0A =0A=0A =
=93We want MySims to provide a creative play experience like never before o=
n a video game system,=94 said Executive Producer Tim LeTourneau. =93By gi=
ving players the tools to create literally any kind of world they want in M=
ySims, we=92re reinforcing the idea that the players create the magic. Will=
the town support a plethora of spooky, mysterious townsfolk =96 or buzz wi=
th the laughter and smiles of fun-loving Sims? It=92s your call! In MySims,=
what players make=85 makes all the difference!=94 =0A=0A =0A=0A MySi=
ms will be available for the Wii and Nintendo DS platforms in fall 2007. =
=0A=0A =0A=0A Product Specifications =0A=0A Publisher: Electr=
onic Arts=0A=0A Developer: Electronic Arts=0A=0A Ship Date: Late 200=
7=0A=0A Category: Simulation=0A=0A =0A=0A=0A=0A

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=0AFeb. 26, 2007 Wii-kly Update: Three New Classic Games Announced for=
Wii Shop Channel Today Nintendo adds three new classic games to the p=
opular Wii(TM) video game system's Wii Shop Channel. The games go live at=
9 a.m. Pacific time. Nintendo adds new games to the channel every Monday=
. Wii owners with a high-speed Internet connection can redeem Wii Points(T=
M) to download the games. Wii Points can be purchased in the Wii Shop Cha=
nnel or at retail outlets. This week's new games are: The Legend of =
Zelda(R): Ocarina of Time (Nintendo 64(R), 1 player, 1,000 Wii Points): Th=
e Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time reveals the genesis of the fantasy land=
of Hyrule, the origin of the Triforce and the tale of the first exploits =
of Princess Zelda(TM) and the heroic adventurer Link. Vibrant, real-time =
3-D graphics transport players into the fantasy world of Hyrule. The ques=
t takes them through dense forests and across wind-whipped deserts. Playe=
rs swim raging rivers, climb treacherous mountains, dash on horseback acro=
ss rolling hills and delve into dungeons full of creatures that fight to t=
he finish to put an end to their adventures. With immersive graphics, a s=
weeping story line, swashbuckling adventure, mind-bending puzzles and a tou=
ch of humor, The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time is one of Nintendo's mos=
t epic challenges ever. Bio-Hazard Battle(TM) (Sega Genesis, 1-2 play=
ers, 800 Wii Points): An army of biogenetic mutants has gone haywire, ter=
rorizing the world and putting the future of the planet in jeopardy. In B=
io-Hazard Battle, players must take on the mutant menace and restore order=
and harmony to the planet Avaron before it's too late. Through eight lev=
els of intense action, they'll be up against some of the nastiest, most vi=
le creatures they've ever seen, including things like mega amoebas, nuclea=
r crabs, electroworms and gut-grabbing insects. They have four different =
Bioship fightercraft to choose from, each with unique handling capabilitie=
s and weapons systems. Hop into a fightercraft and save Avaron from certa=
in doom in Bio-Hazard Battle. Chew Man Fu (TurboGrafx16, 1-2 players, =
600 Wii Points): A novel action-puzzle game set in the sacred towers taken=
over by the evil sorcerer, Chew Man Fu. It's up to an apprentice female =
monk to free the towers and lift Chew's curse to bring peace and fried ric=
e back to the land once ruled by the Egg Roll Dynasty. The rules are simp=
le. The objective is to clear each round by pushing or pulling four color=
ed orbs onto their matching colored tiles. Beware the sorcerer's minions =
in the tower who stand in the way. Players kick the orbs to take enemies =
out or to break down walls. They must overcome the obstacles and place th=
e orbs on their respective tiles. Chew Man Fu also features the two-playe=
r Kick Ball minigame, as well as an Edit Mode for creating unique stages. =
The fun is endless. =0A=0A=0A=0A=0A=0A

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=0ANAMCO BANDAI Games Brings=0A=0A Edge Of Your Seat Portable Drift Rac=
ing On The PSP=AE System=0A=0A =0A=0A SANTA CLARA, CALIF., (February 26=
, 2007) =96 Leading video games publisher and developer NAMCO BANDAI Game=
s America Inc. announced today that its newest racing title, The Fast & th=
e Furious=99 has new features for the =0A=0A PSP=AE (PlayStation=AEPorta=
ble) system. The video game is developed through a licensing agreement wi=
th Universal Studios Consumer Products. The Fast & the Furious on the PS=
P system will allow players to feel an unparalleled sense of power as they=
drift their way through beautiful visuals and new modes exclusive to the =
PSP system. Trade your customized rides through wireless in the Swap Meet=
, stop neglecting your car and give it an oil change in the Tune Shop for =
a temporary performance boost, challenge up to 3 friends in multiplayer dr=
ift battles in the Road Sweeper mode and visit the Extras menu to view tri=
cked out rides from the movie and real world. =0A=0A =0A=0A The Fast=
& the Furious for the PSP system follows on the red hot heels of last ye=
ar=92s successful PlayStation=AE2 computer entertainment system game. Int=
roducing a ground breaking drift mechanic, drifting became accessible to b=
oth beginning and veteran racing game drivers alike. Here=92s what car en=
thusiast and gaming magazines had to say about it;=0A=0A =0A=0A =93Rea=
listic grip and nitrous-fueled sprints add impact as you screech through n=
eon-lit city streets and down darkened mountainsides.=94 Super Street, Oct=
ober 2006.=0A=0A =0A=0A =93=85a metric ton of ways to pimp out your r=
ide, and a few nods to the three films upon which it=92s based.=94 Electr=
onic Gaming Monthly, November 2006.=0A=0A =0A=0A Inspired by last year=
=92s hit film, The Fast & the Furious: Tokyo Drift, the game places the un=
derground world of drift racing into the players=92 hands. Gameplay featu=
res a unique drifting mechanic that allows beginning players to enjoy the =
game, while giving veteran racers a chance to try out more complex techniq=
ues. Players will be able to race in over 100 JDM Tuner, Classic Muscle, =
and Concept cars with over 300 body kits from real JDM companies. See the=
action from cinematic camera angles straight from the movie as players en=
counter boss battles across gorgeously rendered city streets.=0A=0A =0A=
=0A Exclusive PSP system Features:=0A=0A =0A=0A =B7 Swap Meet=
- Gamers have the chance to show off their creative side by using the PSP=
system wireless connectivity option to trick out a ride and send it to ot=
her players via =93Swap Meet=94 to use in non-career game mode. =0A=0A=
=B7 Road Sweeper - Putting drift racing skills to the test, up =
to four players can be challenged in this feature where the aim is to tag =
as many highlighted corners as possible using drifting maneuvers. The more=
complex and varied the techniques are, the more points added to the overa=
ll score. The player with the most tags (or drift points if there is a tie=
) wins at the end of the race. =0A=0A =B7 Oil Change - No c=
ar runs well without oil, so to increase performance, The Tune Shops will =
offer a multi-grade oil change as a purchasable item. By purchasing the oil=
, the player=92s speed and performance will be temporarily enhanced upon r=
eturning to the HUB. =0A=0A =B7 Extras - Fast & Furious fana=
tics will get a special treat in the =93Extras=94 section that will featur=
e an unlocked selection containing images of both the movie and real world=
cars. =0A=0A Rated T for teen, The Fast & the Furious has a suggest=
ed retail price of $29.99.=0A=0A =0A=0A For more information on The Fa=
st & the Furious, visit www.namcobandaigames.com=0A=0A =0A=0A ####=0A=
=0A =0A=0A About the film =0A=0A From the producer of the worldwide =
blockbuster hits The Fast & The Furious and its sequel, 2 Fast 2 Furious,=
comes the latest installment of the adrenaline-inducing series built on s=
peed=97The Fast & The Furious: Tokyo Drift . Set in the sexy and colorfu=
l underground world of Japanese drift racing, the newest and fastest custo=
mized rides go head-to-head on some of the most perilous courses in the wo=
rld. =0A=0A =0A=0A Sean Boswell (Black) is an outsider who attempts to =
define himself as a hot-headed, underdog street racer. Although racing pro=
vides a temporary escape from an unhappy home and the superficial world ar=
ound him, it has also made Sean unpopular with the local authorities. To =
avoid jail time, Sean is sent to live with his gruff, estranged father, a =
career military-man stationed in Tokyo.=0A=0A =0A=0A Now officially a ga=
ijin (outsider), Sean feels even more shut out in a land of foreign custom=
s and codes of honor. But it doesn=92t take long for him to find some act=
ion when a fellow American buddy, Twinkie (Bow Wow), introduces him to the=
underground world of drift racing. Sean=92s simple drag racing gets repl=
aced by a rubber-burning, automotive art form=97with an exhilarating balan=
ce of speeding and gliding through a heart-stopping course of hairpin turn=
s and switchbacks. =0A=0A =0A=0A On his first time out drifting, Sean u=
nknowingly takes on D.K., the =93Drift King,=94 a local champ with ties to =
the Japanese crime machine Yakuza. Sean=92s loss comes at a high price ta=
g when he=92s forced to work off the debt under the thumb of ex-pat, Han =
(Kang). Han soon welcomes Sean into this family of misfits and introduces=
him to the real principles of drifting. But when Sean falls for D.K.=92=
s girlfriend, Neela (newcomer Kelley), an explosive series of events is set=
into motion, climaxing with an ultimate high stakes face off.=0A=0A =0A=
=0A The Fast & The Furious: Tokyo Drift is directed by Justin Lin (Bette=
r Luck Tomorrow, Annapolis) and written by Chris Morgan (Cellular), Kario =
Salem (The Score) and Alfredo Botello. The film is produced by Neal H. Mor=
itz (xXx, S.W.A.T.) and executive produced by Clayton Townsend (The Skel=
eton Key, The 40 Year-Old Virgin).=0A=0A =0A=0A This film is rated PG-=
13.=0A=0A =0A=0A =0A=0A About Universal Studios Consumer Products G=
roup=0A=0A Universal Studios Consumer Products Group is responsible for g=
lobal licensing and retail strategies as well as building brand recognitio=
n of the extensive catalogue of NBC Universal properties. Universal Studio=
s Consumer Products Group is a unit of NBC Universal, one of the world's l=
eading media and entertainment companies in the development, production, a=
nd marketing of entertainment, news, and information to a global audience.=
Formed in May 2004 through the combining of NBC and Vivendi Universal Ent=
ertainment, NBC Universal owns and operates a valuable portfolio of news a=
nd entertainment networks, a premier motion picture company, significant t=
elevision production operations, a leading television stations group, and =
world-renowned theme parks. NBC Universal is 80%-owned by General Electric=
, with 20% controlled by Vivendi.=0A=0A .=0A=0A About NAMCO BANDAI Games=
America Inc.=0A=0ANAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc., is a leading interacti=
ve entertainment software publisher and developer based in Santa Clara, CA=
. The company is a part of the NAMCO BANDAI group of companies known for =
creating and publishing many of the industry's top video game franchises i=
ncluding the PAC-MAN=AE, SOULCALIBUR=AE, Naruto=99 and Tekken=AE brands. =
For more information about NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc., and our produ=
cts log onto www.namcobandaigames.com.=0A=0A =0A=0A Press Release =A9 =
2007 NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc. All Rights Reserved.=0A=0A =0A=0A=
=0A=0A

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